Microbiological

Vet Med (Praha), 1979 Sep, 24(9), 543 - 50
{Organoleptic and microbiological examination of suffocated carp stored under various conditions}; Habrda J et al.; A process of dead market carp deterioration was studied in relation to conditions of the environment and the fish treatment by organoleptic and microbiological methods . A scheme is presented for fish assessment according to the symptoms of deterioration and the limits of carp storability under the given conditions of storing are determined . The results of the microbiological examination were not in keeping with the degree of deterioration of the fish.

Antimicrob Agents Chemother, 1979 Sep, 16(3), 424 - 6
Comparison of cefamandole nafate to cefamandole by microbiological assay; Winely CL et al.; Before microbiological assay, cefamandole nafate should be hydrolyzed for 1 h at 37 degrees C in pH 8 buffer (0.1 M) or for 30 min at room temperature in aqueous solutions containing 1.25 molar equivalents of sodium carbonate.

Z Gesamte Inn Med, 1979 Aug 15, 34(16), 433 - 41
{Therapy of bacterial endocarditis}; Tauchnitz C; The successful treatment of bacterial endocarditis requires a close cooperation to a clinical microbiological laboratory . This performs blood cultures, estimation of sensitivity to the different antibiotics, if anyhow possible also quantitatively, and supervision of therapy by serum bactericidal tests . Synergistic combinations by adding one of the aminoglycosides bring the best chances for therapeutic success . Special advices are given in dependence of the numerous causative bacterial agents . Rare ones are sufficiently taken into consideration . If blood cultures remain negative, empiricial chemotherapy is recommended . Surgical treatment by operative replacement of the infected heart valves and insertion of prosthetic ones is indicated in uncontrolled infection, in severe heart failure caused by valve perforation, and in recurrent embolism . Early interventions have a much better prognosis . Special problems are connected to bacterial endocarditis in prosthetic valves . Bacterial endocarditis in drug addicts is of relatively good prognosis in spite of the frequent complications . Patients with suspicious or evident bacterial endocarditis should be transferred to centers owing sufficient diagnostic and therapeutic experiences.

APIC, 1979 Sep, 7(3), 20 - 2
Disposable humidifiers in a recovery room--a microbiological evaluation; McGuckin MB et al.; Humidification, unlike nebulization, does not produce water droplets in the process of producing desiccated gases, and therefore is considered low risk in terms of potential infection sources . However, direct inoculation of bacteria into these units has been shown to produce contaminated effluents . Therefore, the present study was designed to determine if the airborne route of contamination was a potential source of bacterial inoculum for these units and to determine the maximum number of days units remained free of bacterial contamination . Disposable humidifiers were placed in both high and low volume patient areas of the recovery room . Units were used on multiple patients with only the cannula replaced between patients . Our results showed that these units do have the potential for becoming inoculated through the airborne route, but did not produce contaminated effluents greater than background air . Units remained sterile during the entire time in use in both high and low volume areas . In conclusion, our data suggests that each institution should evaluate the usage of disposable humidifiers based on patient parameters and environment rather than manufacturer's guidelines.

J Pharmacokinet Biopharm, 1979 Aug, 7(4), 355 - 68
Single-dose fasting bioequivalence assessment of erythromycin stearate tablets in man; Yakatan GJ et al.; The bioequivalence of film-coated erythromycin stearate tablets produced by five different manufacturers was evaluated in a balanced incomplete block design involving the five formulations given to 30 fasted subjects over a 3-week study period . Serum levels of erythromycin activity were determined microbiologically . Statistical analysis of variance was performed on the observed bioavailability parameters: maximum serum concentration (Cmax), time to maximum serum concentration (Tmax), and area under the serum concentration-time curve (AUC) . There was no statistical difference between formulations for the Tmax parameter . Formulation differences were found, however, based on the analysis of variance of the Cmax and AUC parameters . Two products, although not significantly different from one another, showed significantly greater Cmax and AUC values than the other three products.

Z Exp Chir, 1979 Aug, 12(4), 201 - 8
{The microbiological cancer test--further studies with experimental mouse tumor tetanus and wound tetanus}; Schneeweiss U et al.; A re-evaluation of the specificity of the tumour-tetanus assay of the mouse was performed by analysing the wound-tetanus assay under comparable test conditions . This was achieved by injecting 1 X 10(6) viable Ehrlich carcinoma cells admixed with 1 X 10(2) tetanus spores subcutaneously, in a 0.1 ml dose volume or, 1 X 10(2) tetanus spores suspended in 5% CaCl2 solution, respectively . By comparison, these two groups of mice developed about the same tetanus mortality rates, however, following tetanus antitoxin therapy with 3 doses of 100 IU each day on days 0, 4 and 7 after infection, clinical signs of late tetanus exclusively belonged to tumour bearing animals . This typical tetanus behaviour may be explained by a spatial-temporal association between growing tetanus rods and proliferating cells of warm-blooded animals . In this manner tumour tissue can be differed from wound granulomatous tissue by way of permanently cloning stem cells.

Vet Med (Praha), 1979 Aug, 24(8), 499 - 506
{The effect of large burns in ruminants on the edibility of meat}; Pawel O et al.; The effect of non-contact burns was studied on a model of a slaughter ruminant . The study included the examination of the penetration of germs into the blood stream and into the meat and of the main changes characterizing the ripening of the obtained meat . The tests were conducted with two groups of animals, killed 1) at the beginning of the development of the infection process in the burn, 2) in a health state in which the prognosis was unfavourable quo ad vitam . It was found on the basis of haemocultivation, microbiological examination of the samples of organs and meat, and examination of pH values in the meat that the natural body barriers were destructed and the biochemistry of the muscular tissue was impaired . The penetration of the germs through the natural barriers of the organism was recorded also before the initiation of the development of the infection in the burn . The acidification of the meat worsened post mortem . It is possible, on the basis of the facts which were revealed, to present the following recommendations for the practical use of the results in the veterinary inspection of meat in ruminants with large burns: to take samples for microbial examination, even though the animal has been slaughtered in the earliest stage of the disease; to determine the pH in the meat obtained from the slaughtered animals and to expect worse acidification and imperfect ripening of the meat.

Akush Ginekol (Mosk), 1979 Jul, (7), 46 - 7
{Effectiveness of intrauterine contraceptives: the side effects and complications from their use}; Novilov IuI et al.; PIP: A study was done on Russian models of the intrauterine contraceptives (polyethylene umbrellas and loops) used by 772 women (20-39 years old) who were observed for 1-8 years (totalling 8140 menstrual cycles) . It was found that in 100 women expulsion of the intrauterine device (IUD) occurred; 20 became pregnant; in 543 women the IUD was withdrawn after 3-5 years of use . The side effects which were noticed at the beginning of usage of the IUD were their expulsion (11.7%) of total, of which 25.0% during the first month) . Disturbances of the menstrual cycles were the reasons for withdrawal of the IUD in 133 women (24.5%) . This happened mostly after 3-5 years of using the IUD . In these cases inflammation of the endometrium was noted (proved by histological and microbiological analyses) . In some women removal of the IUD was done because of pain and in some of them by their own wish . It was shown that the IUD did not negatively effect the ability of women to become pregnant . The conclusion was that a woman using the IUD had to be under a physician's care to prevent complications . The IUD has to be removed if the menstrual cycle is disturbed .

Clin Chem, 1979 Jul, 25(7), 1222 - 5
Chemical assay, involving liquid chromatography, for aminoglycoside antibiotics in serum; Back SE et al.; We describe a chemical assay involving "high-pressure" liquid chromatography for the quantitative determination of three aminoglycosides: netilmicin, tobramycin, and gentamicin . The drugs are separated from serum by means of precipitation of the serum proteins with acetonitrile after dilution with a buffer . The aminoglycosides are quantitatively extracted into the supernate, which is further purified by a two-step partition procedure involving derivatization of the drugs with o-phthalaldehyde . The drug derivatives are separated by reversed-phase chromatography and detected by on-line fluorometry . Sensitivity is 1 mg/L for tobramycin and 0.5 mg/L for netilmicin and gentamicin . Intra- and interassay variation was below 8% . Analytical recovery of each of the three drugs was 92 to 100% . Correlation with microbiological and radioimmunological assay methods was good . The assay is rapid (about 30 min), precise, and specific, and seems suitable for use in a routine clinical laboratory.

Am J Public Health, 1979 Jul, 69(7), 690 - 6
Relationship of microbial indicators to health effects at marine bathing beaches; Cabelli VJ et al.; Findings are described from the second year of an epidemiological-microbiological study conducted at New York City beaches as part of the U.S . Environmental Protection Agency program to develop health effects-recreational water quality criteria . Symptomatology rates among swimmers (defined as immersion of the head in the water) relative to nonswimming but beach-going controls at a "barely acceptable" (BA) beach and a "relatively unpolluted" (RU) beach were examined . Data were collected by contacting family groups at the beach on weekends, obtaining information on bathing activity, and then questioning them by phone some 8--10 days later . In addition measurements were made for a number of potential water quality indicators . It was observed that the symptom rates, categorized as gastrointestinal (GI), respiratory, "other", and "disabling" (stayed home, stayed in bed, consulted a physician), were higher among swimmers than nonswimmers . As in the pretest conducted the previous year, the rate of GI symptoms was significantly higher among swimmers relative to nonswimmers at the BA but not the RU beach . Children, Hispanic Americans, and the low-middle socioeconomic groups were identified as the most susceptible portions of the population.

J Assoc Off Anal Chem, 1979 Jul, 62(4), 951 - 6
Some principles of microbiological turbidimetric assays of antibiotics; Rippere RA; Turbidimetric methods for determining the potency of antibiotics are inherently more accurate and more precise than are comparable agar diffusion procedures, but assays conducted in liquid media are subject to degradation from less than ideal conditions to a much greater extent than are diffusion methods . The relationships between test organisms, antibiotics, and assay concentrations are discussed . A valid assay procedure must produce a linear response with an adequate slope (-0.4 to -1.2) by the test organism to increasing concentrations of drug; such linear response normally occurs over a limited range of concentrations . Criteria used to select photometers that offer the greatest advantages to analytical microbiologists are described, with guidelines for the most effective use of the chosen instrument.

J Assoc Off Anal Chem, 1979 Jul, 62(4), 943 - 50
Microbiological assays for antibiotics and vitamins: considerations for assuring accuracy; Kavanagh F et al.; Factors that may influence the accuracy and precision of microbiological manual and semiautomated turbidimetric methods as well as diffusion assays are discussed . Influence of kind of equipment, media, test bacteria, sample preparation, form of dose response lines, operations, and personnel on quality of assays is examined with the objective of reducing to insignificance those factors under control of the analyst that are responsible for low quality assays.

Arch Otolaryngol, 1979 Jul, 105(7), 404 - 12
Otitis media with effusion . Cytological and microbiological correlates; Lim DJ et al.; A quantitative cytologic study of 83 middle ear effusions from children with otitis media with effusion (OME) was made with the use of cytocentrifuge-prepared smears and was correlated with bacteriological findings . The identification of the types of cell present in an effusion was confirmed by electron microscopic findings . The most common cell types were neutrophilic leukocytes, lymphocytes, and macrophages, but a few eosinophils were found in only one case . The cytologic profile of an effusion correlated well with the bacterial culture results . Neutrophil counts were significantly higher in effusions that contained pathogenic bacteria (P less than .01) than in culture-negative effusions . Lymphocytes were the dominant cell type in culture-negative effusions . The results support the idea that bacteria are involved in the pathogenesis of many cases of OME.

Appl Environ Microbiol, 1979 Jun, 37(6), 1122 - 6
Noninvolvement of beauvericin in the entomopathogenicity of Beauveria bassiana; Champlin FR et al.; Development of a microbiological autobiographic assay procedure permitted a detailed investigation of the possible role of beauvericin (a toxic ionophoric antibiotic produced by Beauveria bassiana) in the entomopathogenicity of B . bassiana against corn earworm (Heliothis zea) larvae . Analysis of spent media of B . bassiana and the hemolymph of infected and moribund larvae revealed that beauvericin was not present in a soluble form during the time that most (about 90%) larvae died of fungal infection (4 days) . Intrahemocoelic injections of up to 6 micrograms of synthetic beauvericin failed to induce any deleterious effects . In addition, although methanol-soluble ionophores, such as valinomycin and bassianolide, were toxic to corn earworm larvae, no methanol-soluble toxin could be detected in the hemolymph of moribund larvae.

Obstet Gynecol, 1979 Jun, 53(6), 730 - 4
The changing perinatal and maternal outcome in chorioamnionitis; Koh KS et al.; Chorioamnionitis is difficult to detect clinically, but its recognition in those at risk is essential . A retrospective study of 140 patients from among 26,129 deliveries was conducted over a 2-year period . The findings suggest that in modern obstetric practice, both perinatal and maternal complications associated with chorioamnionitis (particularly sepsis) are infrequent problems . Four neonatal deaths occurred but no infants died of sepsis . There were no maternal deaths, but 38 patients developed postpartum infections . Cesarean section did not appear to improve either perinatal or maternal outcome . With the use of appropriate modern antibiotics, extraperitoneal cesarean section and cesarean hysterectomy are probably no longer indicated . Not all neonates born out of a microbiologically contaminated intrauterine environment required antibiotic therapy, however, and individualization is recommended.

Med Biol, 1979 Jun, 57(3), 135 - 51
Chlamydial infections . Microbiological, clinical and diagnostic aspects; Paavonen J; The agent of trachoma, originally regarded as a virus, was described by Halberstadter and von Prowacek in 1907 . Since then, studies on Chlamydiae have shown that they are procaryocytic organisms that infect eucaryocytic cells as obligate intracellular parasites . Infections caused by these pathogenic agents occur in a wide range of avian and mammalian species . Chlamydiae are also responsible for several diseases in man, and there is a rapidly growing awareness of their public health significance . The aims of this review are to describe the microbiology and laboratory diagnosis of Chlamydiae and to reflect the clinical spectrum of human chlamydial diseases.

Br J Nutr, 1979 May, 41(3), 559 - 71
Assessment of the nutritional quality of proteins: the use of "ileal" digestibilities of amino acids as measures of their availabilities; Achinewhu SC et al.; 1 . A comparative study was made of two biological techniques for assessing protein quality in wheat and barley, and in a soya-bean-protein isolate both as received, and after being heat damaged by autoclaving . Amino acid digestibility was determined by the "ileal" analysis technique while amino acid availability was measured in growth assays . Some chemical and microbiological tests were also done . 2 . Heat treatment of the soya-bean-protein isolate caused little change in amino acid composition but the digestibility of all amino acids and the availability of lysine and methionine were severely reduced, lysine being most affected . The reduced availability of lsyine was not entirely attributable to impaired digestibility . 3 . The amino acids in wheat and barley were highly digestible . The availability of methionine and lysine in barley and of methionine in wheat was high, whereas the availability of lysine in wheat was apparently much lower . 4 . The results showed that for methionine, digestibility values are a fair measure of the availability . In heat-damaged soya-bean-protein isolate however, digestibility of lysine over-estimated the availability, indicating that amino acid digestibility may sometimes provide a misleading indication of nutritional value.

Zentralbl Bakteriol {B}, 1979 May, 168(3-4), 349 - 55
{Microbial settlement of paint- and building-materials in the sphere of drinking water . 3 . Macrocolonies on the joint in a drinking-water-reservoir covered with tile (author's transl)}; Schoenen D et al.; The microbial growth in form of macrocolonies on the joint of a drinking-water-reservoir covered with tile could be observed repeatedly . The slime was examined microbiologically . The origin of the carbon sources was determined by radiocarbon test.

J Clin Pathol, 1979 May, 32(5), 505 - 13
Class II (laminar flow) biological safety cabinet; Newsom SW; A microbiological survey of the effectiveness of class II (laminar flow) 'safety' cabinets found in the UK in the last six years is recorded . Only two of the nine units tested approached the containment of aerosols achieved by a good class I (exhaust protective) cabinet . The others were potentially hazardous if used with pathogenic material . The National Sanitation Foundation and the British Standards Institute have now laid down adequate specifications based on biological containment, and hopefully the conforming cabinets will be much better; even so, the purchase of a cabinet must be undertaken with care, and the cabinet requires frequent monitoring during use and after servicing.

J Pharm Sci, 1979 May, 68(5), 652 - 4
High-performance liquid chromatographic determination of cephacetrile; Mangia A et al.; A rapid and accurate quantitative determination of cephacetrile in finished bulk and dosage forms is reported . The high-performance liquid chromatographic method is free of interference by acetyl hydrolysis products and synthesis by-products . The assay can be performed in about 15 min, affording less than 0.7% coefficients of variation within and between days . The chromatographic results are in good agreement with the microbiological assay requested by the "Code of Federal Regulations" for certification of cephacetrile sodium.

Pathol Biol (Paris), 1979 May, 27(5), 314 - 6
{Modified method for assay of cephalosporins and cephamycins (author's transl)}; Kitzis MD; An improved microbiological method for assay of cephalosporins and cephamycins in body fluids is presented . Addition of NaCl and NaCt resulted in increasing the precision and reliability of the assay.

J Clin Microbiol, 1979 Apr, 9(4), 549 - 50
First isolation of Peptococcus indolicus from a human clinical specimen; Bourgault AM et al.; Peptococcus indolicus was isolated from a skin lesion of a sheepherder . A case report is given, and microbiological features of this organism are described.

Antibiotiki, 1979 Apr, 24(4), 243 - 6
{Formation of broad-spectrum antibiotics by cultures of the genus Micromonospora}; Vostrov SN et al.; Data on the study of antibiotic production by the representatives of Micromonospora and the use of ion exchange resins for intensification of screening antibiotic-producing organisms among Micromonospora are presented . It was found that out of 172 strains of Micromonospora tested 92 (53.5 per cent) cultures produced antibiotics, 18 of which were active against gramnegative bacteria . The use of carboxylic ion exchange resins at early microbiological stages of the screening provided an increase in the frequency of finding broad spectrum antibiotics from 10.4 to 19.7 per cent.

J Pharm Sci, 1979 Apr, 68(4), 499 - 503
Stability-indicating assay for vidarabine; Hong WH et al.; A physicochemical procedure for the analysis of vidarabine in aqueous parenteral formulations was needed to assure potency and to define stability . Concurrent with the development of this method, its decomposition products and route in aqueous solution were determined . A quantitative procedure was developed to determine intact drug in the presence of decomposition products, and the results obtained were validated by microbial assay . Spectral (UV and polarimetric) and TLC evidence indicated that, in aqueous solution, hydrolysis without racemization occurs, yielding adenine and arabinose . The sensitivity of the method to decomposition is improved by ion-exchange separation of adenine and drug before UV measurement . Analysis of partially decomposed solutions of the drug by both ion-exchange and microbiological methods gave comparable results.

Ann Clin Res, 1979 Apr, 11(2), 63 - 5
Pulmonary infections after renal transplantation; Mattson K et al.; The prevalence of pulmonary infections has been assessed in a series of 93 patients who succumbed after renal transplantation . Pneumonia was considered to be the immediate cause of death in 15 patients; microscopic examination revealed further 10 cases, with pneumonic foci in the lungs . Consequently, the prevalence of pulmonary infections was 27% . Pneumonia was diagnosed on chest X-ray in only 48%, with "uraemic lung" as the most common confounding diagnosis . Clinical microbiology disclosed pathogenic bacteria in the sputum in 40% of the cases . It is concluded that the diagnostic yield would be enhanced by more frequent chest X-rays and presumably with more invasive methods of acquiring specimens for microbiological studies . It is also possible that the application of more stringent criteria for the use of high-dose intravenous steroids for supposed rejection will lead to less pneumonia in patients with renal transplants.

Zentralbl Bakteriol {B}, 1979 Mar, 168(2), 165 - 74
{Microbiological and parasitic risks associated with the stay in hot countries (author's transl)}; Wiedermann G; The microbiological and parasitic risks associated with the tremendous increase in the tourist traffic from West Germany and Austria into warmer countries are considerable even in the case of shorter stays, as has been confirmed by observations made on those returning from such areas . The most important groups of diseases -- worm diseases, amoebiasis, and malaria -- have maintained this ranking in Central and South America; in Africa, especially in the east, the incidence of malaria tropica is increasing . The proportions for Austria show that even numerically there are no great differences compared with West Germany . It seems that, as far as malaria is concerned, efficient prophylactic measures and reliable information are absent; at any rate, the cases of malaria tropica were severe and in the main no prophylactic measures had been taken . With the exception of Japan, the risk of hepatitis in all warmer countries and in the East in general is many times higher than in the Federal Republic of Germany and the length of stay is partly a determining factor . For instance, the risk of hepatitis is roughly forty times higher in India . All figures shown in this survey are supported by tables, literature, and personal experience.

Z Gesamte Inn Med, 1979 Mar 1, 34(5), suppl 36 - 9
{Therapy of tuberculosis}; Eule H; The accomplishment of the principles for the prevention of a germ resistance and the development of new principles of treatment and highly effective antituberculotics has led to the fact that nowadays actually each case of tuberculosis may be treated and cured purely internally . This progress in the individual treatment were achieved by recommendations of therapy which are actualized from time to time . The modern treatment consists of a daily application of three effective antituberculotics for two to three months, fellowed by an intermittent application twice a week . The duration of the initial intensive period and the whole time of therapy is determined by the clinical and social state before the beginning and by the combination of drugs . INH, rifampizine, streptomycin and ethambutol form the components of the therapy combinations which at present are to be used no longer than twelve months . The redetection of the special microbiological qualities of the pyrazineamide and their importance for the prevention of relapses introduces the last phase of the development of the therapy of tuberculosis . By its means it is possible to shorten the duration of the treatment to 9 months and less and thus to increase the acceptability and cooperation, to decrease the toxicity and costs.

Infect Immun, 1979 Mar, 23(3), 858 - 62
Experimental hematogenous Candida endophthalmitis: diagnostic approaches; Henderson DK et al.; Anterior chamber aspiration and vitreous aspiration were evaluated as diagnostic procedures for establishing a specific microbiological diagnosis in the rabbit model of hematogenous Candida endophthalmitis . Vitreous aspiration was the most successful procedure, confirming the diagnosis of hematogenous Candida endophthalmitis in 62% of eyes with documented intraocular infection . When animals with only the most severe clinical endophthalmitis were considered, vitreous aspiration confirmed the diagnosis in 89% of eyes evaluated . Vitreous aspiration correlated well with the extent of clinical endophthalmitis, as well as with postmortem, whole-vitreous cultures . Gram staining of the aspirate was additive to culture results in confirming the diagnosis . Anterior chamber aspiration was positive in only 1 of 58 eyes evaluated (1.7%) . Additionally, muscle biospy was evaluated in this study as a tool for establishing a microbiological diagnosis in the rabbit model of disseminated candidiasis . Only 2 of 131 biospy specimens contained detectable Candida . Although vitreous aspiration may be associated with ocular complications, in certain clinical settings this procedure may be valuable in establishing the definitive microbiological diagnosis of hematogenous Candida endophthalmitis.

Res Vet Sci, 1979 Mar, 26(2), 250 - 2
The effects of some surface sampling procedures on the stratum corneum of bovine skin; Lloyd DH et al.; Clipping and shaving remove cell and lipid layers from the stratum corneum and also modify the effects of subsequent lipid collection and microbiological sampling techniques . The damage to the epidermis caused by solvents indicates that further evaluation of some sebum collection procedures and of the effects of dips and dressings applied to the skin is required.

Aktuelle Gerontol, 1979 Mar, 9(3), 115 - 8
{Frequency of bacteriuria in the aged (author's transl)}; Tauchnitz C et al.; 1125 inhabitants of 2 homes for aged people were tested for bacteriuria by dip slides . Increasing of age did not lead to higher frequency of bacteriuria, neither in women (n = 869), nor in men (n = 256) . The persons were divided in the 4 decades of being 61--70, 71--80, 81--90, and 91--99 years old . The corresponding rates of bacteriuria (greater than or equal to 10(5) germs/ml) were 14.0, 15.0, 12.4, and 9.1%, respectively . The rate of reproducibility was 75.4%, indicating still smaller values in reality . The discrepancies to the much higher values reported in the literature may depend on the people tested: "normal persons" instead of hospital patients or patients' specimens having been sent to a microbiological laboratory.

J Pharm Pharmacol, 1979 Mar, 31(3), 171 - 3
A comparative study of the microbiological assays currently available for nystatin raw material; Cosgrove RF et al.; The classical agar diffusion and turbidimetric methods of assay for nystatin are compared with the more recently documented assays for this antibiotic which depend upon physicochemical measurement of the response of micro-organisms . Liquid nitrogen stored inocula were used throughout . It is concluded that the newer methods of assay are as reproducible and reliable as the agar diffusion and turbidimetric methods and that they are generally more sensitive . The choice between the assay methods compared can thus be based on speed, cost and sample through-put.

Fortschr Med, 1979 Feb 15, 97(7), 270 - 4
{Development and current possibilities of cerebrospinal fluid diagnosis in the routine laboratory . 1 . Cytological and microbiological studies and methods of chemical analysis}; Schulz D et al.; Although there are many precisely working procedures for diagnostic examinations of cerebrospinal fluid, very often methods are used which do not fulfill conditions of adequate quality . The aim of this survey of several cytological and chemical methods, of their development during the past 80 years, of their advantages or disadvantages, and of the various difficulties is to contribute to a discussion on improvement of quality and on unification of laboratory methods regarding diagnostic examinations of cerebrospinal fluid . Several procedures to separate protein fractions or single proteins in cerebrospinal fluid will be discussed in the second part of this paper.

In Vitro, 1979 Feb, 15(2), 73 - 81
Factors influencing microbiological assay of cell-culture mycoplasma; McGarrity GJ et al.; A total of 6432 cell cultures was assayed for mycoplasmas over a 6-year period by aerobic and anaerobic incubation of agar and broth media . Mycoplasmas were detected in 375 cultures (5.8%) . M . orale and A . laidlawii accounted for 61.3% of the isolates . Anaerobic incubation detected 98.1% of the isolates; aeorbic incubation detected 45.8% . Of factors studied to determine their effect on mycoplasma assay, only two, anaerobic incubation and presence of mycoplasmacidal/static antibiotics, were significant . In separate studies, 86 of 2656 cell cultures (3.2%) were infected with strains of M . hyorhinis that did not grow on cell-free media . Recommendations are given for microbiological assay of cell-culture mycoplasmas.

Angew Parasitol, 1979 Feb, 20(1), 17 - 34
{Dipteran fauna of zoological preparation and veterinary postmortem rooms}; Kuhlhorn F; Zoological preparation rooms (P) and post-mortem rooms (S) constitute an environment for the spread of infection in areas of human habitation . In the absence of fly screens on the windows they are often invaded by Diptera which after landing on the frequently infested animal material leave again and become potential transmitters of disease in adjoining human living quarters . A large number of the 241 species of Diptera from 37 families identified in the P/S are regarded as potential transmitters . But suitability as transmitter is also potentially possible for an appreciable part of the remaining species . Field investigations over 20 years with various bait traps, e . g . fresh and decaying meat, excrements, human and animal food, have shown that many of these species observe sequences of substrate visitations similar to those Diptera identified in the literature as transmitters of disease . Should this assumption be confirmed the number of Diptera species which have to be considered as agents for the spread of disease would be enlarged within the environment of contamination P/S.--The results obtained in P/S constitutes an addition to the material so far worked out for the dipterology of human habitation . This should serve as background for further selective, microbiological and medical research on the role of Diptera as transmitters of disease.

Am J Hosp Pharm, 1979 Feb, 36(2), 205 - 8
Stability of penicillin V potassium in unit dose oral syringes; Grogan LJ et al.; The stability of reconstituted penicillin V potassium (PVK) when stored in 6-ml plastic oral syringes at various temperatures and protected from light was studied . One batch of PVK was reconstituted with distilled water according to manufacturer's directions (label claim: 125 mg/ml) . Samples of 5 ml were stored in plastic oral syringes at 4 C, 25 C, 41 C, 60 C or 75 C and assayed spectrophotometrically and microbiogically at various times . From an initial concentration of 113% of label claim, PVK stored at 4 C (refrigerated) reached 90% of manufacturer's label claim in 11.5 days (95% confidence level) . PVK stored at 25 C (room temperature) was unstable after storage for less than 37 hours . PVK degradation followed a first-order process . No significant difference was found between the spectrophotometric and microbiological assay (p less than 0.05) . Manufacturer's stability data for storage of reconstituted PVK in the original bulk container should not be applied to PVK repackaged in plastic oral syringes . The pharmacy department developed guideliness designed to prevent the administration of subpotent PVK.

J Pharm Pharmacol, 1979 Feb, 31(2), 83 - 6
The application of cryobiology to the microbiological assay of nystatin; Cosgrove RF et al.; Improvements in the reproducibility of nystatin agar diffusion assays have been achieved by the use of liquid nitrogen stored inocula and deep frozen standard stock solutions . The overall percentage variability of the assay has been reduced from over 5% with daily prepared standards and inocula to around 1% with a frozen inocula and to 0.6% with a combination of frozen inocula and standards . The implications of these improvements in the standardization of nystatin assays, and microbiological assays generally are discussed.

Appl Environ Microbiol, 1979 Jan, 37(1), 21 - 35
Membrane filtration of food suspensions; Sharpe AN et al.; Factors affecting the membrane filtration of food suspensions were studied for 58 foods and 13 membrane filters . Lot number within a brand, pore size (0.45 or 0.8 micrometer), and time elapsed before filtration had little effect on filterability . Brand of membrane filter, flow direction, pressure differential, age (microbiological quality) of the food, duration of the blending process, temperature, and concentration of food in the suspension had significant and often predictable effects . Preparation of suspensions by Stomacher (relative to rotary blender) addition of surfactant (particularly at elevated temperature) and prior incubation with proteases sometimes had dramatic effects of filterability . In contrast to popular opinion, foods can be membrane filtered in quantities pertinent to the maximums used in conventional plating procedures . Removal of growth inhibitors and food debris is possible by using membrane filters . Lowering of the limits of detection of microorganisms by concentration on membrane filters can be considered feasible for many foods . The data are particularly relevant to the use of hydrophobic grid-membrane filters (which are capable of enumerating up to 9 X 10(4) organisms per filter) in instrumented methods of food microbiological analysis.

Arzneimittelforschung, 1979, 29(6), 935 - 9
{Animal studies on nephrotoxicity of seven aminoglycoside antibiotics during long-term treatment (author's transl)}; Beck H et al.; In studies on female Wistar rats (n = 133) the nephrotoxicity and kidney concentrations of amikacin, butirosin, gentamicin, kanamycin, bekanamycin, sisomicin, and tobramycin were examined during four weeks therapy and four weeks convalescence . Maximum doses recommended for human therapy were administered i.m . at 12-h intervals . For evaulation of the tubulotoxic effect the excretion rates of tubular cells were determined daily . At weekly intervals animals were sacrificed for determination of the kidney aminoglycoside concentration, which was assayed microbiologically . The application of all aminoglycosides resulted in an increase of excreted tubular cells, but the extent and course of cell excretion varied for the different aminoglycosides . An initial peak after different periods of therapy and later on a decrease of cell excretion was found for all aminoglycosides . These periods of high and low loss of tubular cells corresponded to aminoglycoside accumulation and saturation in the kidneys . During the first week of treatment only gentamicin was tolerated without signs of renal damage . Initially the nephrotoxic effect was strongest for bekanamycin, but at the end of the first week kanamycin and sisomicin produced similar distinct side effects . Thereafter the highest cell excretion rates were continuously caused by sisomicin.

Mikrobiyol Bul, 1979 Jan, 13(1), 35 - 51
{The role of ointment bases in the formulation of 2 antifungal drugs . II . Liberation studies on 5-fluorocytosine and tolnaftate ointment bases by the microbiological agar plate method}; Hincal AA; In this study a microbiological in vitro agar plate method was developed to measure the liberation of two antifungal agents; 5-Fluorocytosine and Tolnaftate; comparatively from six different type ointment bases . The effect of dimethylformamide to the liberation of these two antifungals was also studied . Cetyl alcohol ointment and Emulsion ointment (B.P . 1968) bases gave the best results for the two active agents . Dimethylformamide accelerated the release of these antifungals from the emulsion type bases (Emulsion Ointment and Simple Ointment).

Vet Med Nauki, 1979, 16(10), 88 - 95
{Role of mildew and mildewed honey in summer-fall mortality in bee hives}; Shabanov M et al.; The high summer and autumn lethality of unknown etiology observed in bee families from the Vidin district in 1978 was studied . It was established that amid suffering bee families lethality ranges from 50 to 100% . Results of the microbiological investigations carried out proved negative--no pathogen bee microorganisms were isolated . Negative results were obtained from the parasitological investigations also . Analysis of honey produced by suffering families indicated that the samples are highly positive for mildew affected honey and negative for other poisons . Histological investigations of the mid intestine of live bees from the affected families showed changes characteristic for mildew toxicosis . Laboratory biotests carried out by feeding healthy bees with honey taken from suffering or dead bee families confirm the diagnosis . The experimental bees revealed the typical clinical picture and characteristic symptoms of mildew toxicosis and high lethality.

Arzneimittelforschung, 1979, 29(12a), 2028 - 31
{Therapy with an antibiotic combination mezlocillin/oxacillin and clinical experience/Second communication: Children (author's transl)}; Chysky V et al.; Almost all infections of newborn have to be treated with antibiotics before the result of microbiological examination is available since there are either difficulties in identifying the causative organisms(s) or antibiotic treatment must be instituted without delay in view of the patient's life threatening condition . The present paper reports on the therapeutic results obtained in association with the multicentre study of 51 children affected by bacterial infections . 17 (33.0%) patients were newborn up to one week of age . 12 patients were classified as premature babies, some presenting a high degree of immaturity . Treatment with Optocillin (Bay 1-1330), a combination of 6-((R)-2-{3-Methylsulfonyl-2-oxo-imidazolidine-1-carboxamido}-2-phenyl-acetamido)-penicillanic acid sodium salt (mezlocillin, Baypen) and 5-methyl-3-phenyl-4-isoxazolyl-penicillin (oxacillin, Stapenor), proved effective in 90% of the children, although 22 patients had been treated with other antibiotics prior to the use of this compound . An average daily dose of about 225 mg/kg bodyweight was found to be effective and perfectly tolerated even on long-term treatment, as became evident from two cases of extremely premature babies effected by neonatal septicaemia (duration of treatment 38 and 34 days, respectively) . The combination showed a perfect local tolerance, exanthema appearing only in one infant.

Arzneimittelforschung, 1979, 29(11), 1690 - 3
A high pressure liquid chromatographic method for the determination of tetracyclines in blood and organs of experimental animals; Bocker R et al.; A high-pressure liquid chromatographic method has been developed for the quantitative analysis of tetracyclines from biological material . Tetracyclines can be extracted from serum or organ homogenates by means of acetonitrile containing buffer . The extract is chromatographed on a reversed-phase column and the tetracyclines are monitored spectrophotometerically at 357 nm . Tetracyclines, pyrrolidinomethyl-tetracycline, 4-epitetracycline, and doxycycline are thus separated within 8 min . The lowest concentration for the intact molecule detectable are 0.2 micrograms/ml serum or blood and 0.4 micrograms/g organ . In a comparative study the new extraction procedure and the chromatographic analysis yielded the same results as a microbiological method.

Polim Med, 1979, 9(1), 3 - 17
Radiation sterilization of cellulose dressing materials; Burczak K et al.; The results of investigations in the field of application of 60 Co gamma-irradiation for sterilization of cellulose dressing materials have been presented on the ground of our own experiments . The investigations were carried out for the model objects which are contents of all dressing materials, nowadays used in medical practice: cotton gauze, viscose-cotton gauze, cotton wool and cotton-viscose wool . In the present report there have been discussed the results of the test estimation of sterilized materials immediately after irradiation and during long storage as well (3-5 years after irradiation) . The estimation was carried out according to the requirements of Pharmacopoeia . Moreover, the choice of parameters of sterilization process from the view-point of microbiological experiments and estimation of initial contamination degree of irradiated materials have been discussed.

Antibiotiki, 1979 Jan, 24(1), 21 - 5
{Control over bellows tightness in the hermetic sealing subassemblies of equipment used in the technology of microbiological manufactures}; Skvortsov GE et al.; A universal procedure for controlling the sylphon hermeticity is discussed . Travelling sylphon or membrane diaphragms in combination with a dublicate sylphon are used as a separating element at the border of the separating media, e . g . the medium transporting through the valve and the environmental air . Pneumatic pressure higher than the working pressure of the separating medium is created inside the space between the working and the dublicate sylphons . If the hermeticity of one of the above sylphons is broken, the excessive pressure inside the space between them is reduced which is automatically stated by means of a pneumatic probe . Because of detection of the breach in the hermeticity of one of the sylphons in proper time, when the second sylphon is safe, the contact of the transporting medium with the environmental air is prevented . The described procedure for controlling the hermeticity is universal since it provides the use of the probes working only under the pressure independent of the type and physico-chemical properties of the separating medium . One of the important advantages of the new procedure is also the fact that the working sylphon appears to be empty since the outer with respect to it pressure of the separating medium is practically balanced by the pressure created in the sylphon space.

Ann Ist Super Sanita, 1979, 15(4), 691 - 707
The Ligurian coast: an example of data processing; Volterra L et al.; An attempt of computer data processing carried out on microbiological analysis of marine coastal waters is reported in the present paper . The Ligurian coast was chosen because of the extensive analyses executed by the Laboratori Provinciali di Igiene e Profilassi . These have supplied us with their results concerning the marine environment . The elaboration performed discriminates between those stations constantly polluted and the punctual pollution phenomena that seldom affect more than one station . Data obtained could be utilized for a correct management of the coast and of the adjacent land.

Postgrad Med J, 1979, 55 Suppl 4, 59 - 61
Treatment of acute bronchitis and pneumonia with cefaclor; Mattson K et al.; An open, non-comparative clinical trial of cefaclor in adults with acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis (54 patients) or pneumonia (24 patients) is reported . The dosage of cefaclor used was either 250 mg or 500 mg taken orally three times daily . Clinical cure was obtained in 39 of 42 (93%) of patients on the lower dose and 32 of 33 (97%) on the higher dose . Side effects were minimal and the antibiotic was very well tolerated . Microbiological evaluation was possible in 32 of 75 (43%) of patients in whom potential pathogens were identified before treatment . Microbiological 'cure' was achieved in 17 of 32 (53%), the majority of whom had received the higher dose . The lack of correlation between the clinical and microbiological results cast further doubts on the value of the standard sputum culture methods in the diagnosis and management of lower respiratory tract infection . Cefaclor is useful in the management of acute lower respiratory tract infections by virtue of its excellent clinical efficacy and safety.

Arzneimittelforschung, 1979, 29(12a), 1939 - 41
{Electron microscopic and microbiological studies on the activity of mezlocillin against Escherichia coli (author's transl)}; Voigt WH et al.; Investigations by electron microscopy on thin sections and negative-stained preparations were carried out to show the effect of 6-{(R)-2-{3-methylsulfonyl-2-oxo-imidazolidine-1-carboxamido}-2-phenyl-acetamido}-penicillanic acid sodium salt (mezlocillin, Baypen) on the ultrastructures of gramnegative bacteria (Escherichia coli C 165) . Distinct alterations of the bacteria were to be seen depending on concentration and cultivation time . The outer wall of the bacterial cell became irregular . Locally it detached from the plasma membrane . The normal density of the cytoplasmic structures decreased quickly . Owing to their inability to form septa the bacteria grew as extended filaments . These mezlocillin-treated cells could form filaments of up to 100 times the length of normal untreated bacteria . Those bacterial filaments, however, were unable to form colonies as was shown by survival curves carried out in parallel . The filaments, therefore, were irreversibly damaged bacterial forms.

Arzneimittelforschung, 1979, 29(2a), 414 - 6
Investigations on the effectiveness of cefazedone in experimental E . coli pyelonephritis; Sack K et al.; The therapeutic effectiveness of (6R,7R)-7-(2-{3,5-dichloro-4-oxo-1(4H)-pyridyl}-acetamido)-3-({(5-methyl-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-yl)-thio}methyl)-8-oxo-5-thia-1-azabicyclo{4,2,0}oct-2-ene-2-carboxylic acid (cefazedone, Refosporen), cephazolin, cephacetrile and cephalothin was compared in the test model of estradiol-induced E . coli pyelonephritis in the rat . Cefazedone and cephazolin were similar in effect . The relations between results of treatment and microbiological and pharmacokinetic characteristics of the cephalosporins tested are discussed.

Dev Biol Stand, 1979, 42, 55 - 9
Experience with testing for mycoplasma with five different methods; Scheirer W et al.; Five methods for mycoplasma-content detection in cell-cultures are established in this laboratory . Results with about 20 different cell lines continuously grown in this laboratory in some determinations indicate that four methods give good correspondence . A microbiological method gave contrary results in many cases . It is possible that new infections will grow on mycoplasma broth but the older infections are adapted to cell-culture and give negative results on artificial medium . New low-level infections cannot be detected by the other methods which do not include any efficient enrichment step . The most convenient method in our opinion is a DNA-staining method according to Chen because this is a very quick, inexpensive and easily performable process . In practice it seems necessary to check cell cultures in two ways, firstly with a quick method and additionally with the microbiological test to ensure the detection of new low-level infections.

Probl Med Wieku Rozwoj, 1979, 8, 274 - 8
{Prevention and epidemiology of trichomonal vaginitis in women treated in gynecological departments}; Lotocki W et al.; The purpose of the work is to present the results of prophylactic actions used in the Departments of the Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology of the Medical Academy in Bia l ystok giving reasons for changes and modifications concerning the present state of procedures . At the same time, attention has been paid to some epidemiological factors of trichomoniasis in women treated in gynecological departments for various diseases of the female genital organ . Women treated in the Departments of the Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology in 1974-1975 were included in these studies . Total number of the investigated women was 9000 but those with trichomoniasis were 610 . There were presented the results of procedures at the admittance rooms of the Gynecological Departments in which examinations and treatment of trichomoniasis, in reasonable cases, were carried out before admitting the patients to proper gynecological treatment were presented . The whole of the evaluation was based on our own scheme of microbiological procedures.

Probl Med Wieku Rozwoj, 1979, 8, 262 - 5
{Incidence of trichomonas vaginitis among women in the Białystok region}; Soszka S et al.; Nine-year period of examinations, carries out within the former borders of the Bia l ystok Province including 332 774-391 959 women above 20 years of age, was subjected to analysis . From this group, about 85000-109000 women underwent microbiological examinations . An increasing number of microbiologically examined women corresponds to increasing detectability of trichomoniasis between 1971-1972 . From that time on, a distinct decrease in detectability has been observed . Detailed analysis of trichomoniasis detectability was performed in different Departments of Health Services . Significant differences in trichomoniasis detectability were found in the whole region and particular Departments of Health Service . The last detectability has been shown by the Department of Health Service for Bia l ystok . The scheme of diagnostic procedures in the same for the whole region.

Acta Odontol Scand, 1979, 37(6), 353 - 61
Oral candidosis--frequency, treatment and relapse tendency in a group of psychiatric inpatients; Jacobsen S et al.; Candida fungi are frequent in the oral cavity, especially in denture wearers . The infection can cause serious complications in elderly or debilitated subject . The present experimental group consisted of 81 female psychiatric patients (35--91 years of age) . In addition to a clinical examination, smears from the palate, tongue and dentures (when present) were cultured on Nickerson's medium . Patients with a positive clinical and/or microbiological diagnosis were treated for 35 days with one of two gels containing 1% chlorhexidine . Following the treatment period patients with full or partial dentures took part in a maintenance program, in which the dentures were either soaked in a 0.2% chlorhexidine solution or mechanically cleaned every day for a period of 35 days . Two thirds of the patients showed clinical signs of oral candidosis or had positive cultures preexperimentally . The treatment with chlorhexidine gels resulted in negative cultures in 71% and negative clinical diagnosis gels resulted in negative cultures in 71% and negative clinical diagnosis in 96% of the patients . Mucosal soreness occurred during the treatment period in 8 out of 28 patients wearing full dentures . Xerostomia was not influenced by the chlorhexidine treatment . The relapse tendency was low during the post-treatment period . No clearcut differences between the two maintenance methods could be detected.

Acta Otolaryngol Suppl, 1979, 365, 1 - 17
Penetration of erythromycin through respiratory mucosa . A study using secretory otitis media as a model; Sundberg L et al.; This study is based upon the concept that the respiratory mucosa reacts in a uniform manner to an inflammatory stimulus . Secretory Otitis Media (SOM) may be used as a model to disclose some aspects of antibiotic penetration . Erythromycin was given for different periods of time to 108 cases of SOM where myringotomy was indicated . The middle ear effusion was aspirated and blood samples were obtained simultaneously . The concentration of erythromycin was determined by microbiological procedures . Erythromycin penetrated into the middle ear effusion . After the fourth dose the concentration was at the same level as the plasma peak level . The elimination of the drug from the middle ear secretion was considerably prolonged compared with the rapid elimination from plasma . This implies that erythromycin attains a steady state in the middle ear effusion with concentrations equal to the plasma peak level.

J Reprod Fertil Suppl, 1979, (27), 571 - 8
Clinical, microbiological and histological changes associated with uterine involution in the mare; Gygax AP et al.; The surprisingly rapid rate of uterine involution detected is consistent with a high rate of conception as the first post-partum heat . Furthermore, many of the immediately post-partum features have attained the pregravid state by the end of the first post-partum oestrus and virtually all by the second post-partum oestrus . There was no specific cause detected for the higher rate of early embryonic death associated with conception at the foal heat.

Vutr Boles, 1979, 18(2), 103 - 7
{Infectious complications in acute and chronic leukemias}; Nedialkova M et al.; Clinical and microbiological examinations of patients with acute leucosis and chronic myelo- and lympholeucosis were carried out aiming at the elucidation of incidence, localization and causative agents of the infectious diseases along with them . The infectious complications were concluded to present a serious problem in the treatment of leucosis, due to which their diagnosis is of essential importance for their early diagnosis, timely treatment and prophylaxis.

Zentralbl Bakteriol Naturwiss, 1979, 134(5), 398 - 401
N-mineralization of formaldehyde-releasing N-compounds; Verstraeten LM; The mineralization of several N-compounds, such as MMU, DMU, and HMT, as well as their respective nitrificide action, have been investigated . It has been proved that the amount of available formaldehyde, as well as its rate of release, are responsible for the specific action of these compounds on the N-mineralization process . Factors affecting the rate of release, namely molecular structure, solubility, and temperature, are discussed as well . Importance of these N-compounds as slow-release N-fertilizers based on a new molecular-microbiological approach is described.

Z Allg Mikrobiol, 1979, 19(8), 553 - 6
Microbiological production of radioisotopically labelled 16 alpha-hydroxylated steroids in trace quantities; Iida M et al.; {14-14C}16 alpha-Hydroxy-C-18- and C-19-steroid hormones were obtained in good yields by microbiological hydroxylation of correspondingly labelled steroids by Streptomyces roseochromogenes NRRL B-1233 . Trace quantities of the labelled substrates were incubated on a rotary shaker (220 rpm) at 27 degrees C . The radioactive products were chromatographically separated, identified and the radiochemical purity was established by isotopic dilution analysis . The specific activities of 16 alpha-hydroxy-steroids obtained were assumed to be the same as those of the substrates, namely, 57.5 mCi/mmole for 16 alpha-hydroxy-4-androstene-3,17-dione, 57.5 mCi/mmole for 5-androstene-3 beta,16 alpha,17 beta-triol, 57.5 mCi/mmole for 16 alpha-hydroxy-dehydroepiandrosterone, 55.7 mCi/mmole for 16 alpha-hydroxy-estrone, and 57.5 mCi/mmole for 16 alpha-hydroxy-testosterone.

Mikrobiologiia, 1979 Jan-Feb, 48(1), 129 - 32
{Microbiological oxidation of methane in the stratal waters of the Lower Volgian}; Ivanov MV et al.; Methanotrophic bacteria are rather widely distributed in bed waters of oil and gas deposits in the Nizhneye Povolzhye . Their number reaches 250 cells per 1 ml of water . However, bacterial methane oxidation is active only in waters whose redox potential exceeds +250 mV . In a number of cases, microbial methane oxidation is limited by the absence of oxygen from bed waters . If air is added to samples of such water, methane dissolved in the water is oxidized by microorganisms at a high rate (2--451 X 10(-4) cm3 of methane per litre of water per day).

Mikrobiologiia, 1979 Jan-Feb, 48(1), 125 - 8
{Gas chromatographic method of determining the intensity of microbiological oxidation of methane in reservoirs}; Saralov AI; A method of gas chromatography is described for determining the rate of microbial methane oxidation . In the Rybinskoye Reservoir, the rate of methane oxidation in the microaerobic zone of water layers near the bottom over the silted former channel of the Mologa River was found to be 51.1 to 86.2 mcl of CH4 per litre per day at 2--3 degrees C, constituting 8--16% of the original methane content.

J Biomed Eng, 1979 Jan, 1(1), 22 - 32
A system for the three-dimensional construction, manipulation and display of microbiological models; Perkins WJ et al.; A system is described for building up serial sections into a three dimensional structure, incorporating density, that can be displayed and then further manipulated by rotation about three orthogonal axes . The initial application was to produce a computer model of a protein structure and to compare the diverse images obtained from rotation with the two dimensional images observed in related electron micrographs . To obtain sufficient contrast in the electron microscope images of protein structures, the specimens need to be stained and since this can cause some deformation of the observed images, it is also necessary to simulate ths possible effects of stain on the protein model . Because of the need to compare numerous orientations of the combined model, techniques are available either for speeding up the comparison or for obtaining better accuracy . The methods have been applied to the interpretation of electron micrograph images of microbiological specimens, where the three dimensional structure of the specimen is an important aid in understanding its biological function, but the techniques are also applicable to more general serial reconstruction requirements.

Scand J Infect Dis, 1979, 11(3), 179 - 84
Pneumococcal infections and the possible need for a vaccine; Kaijser B; Antibiotics and chemotherapeutics have been available for about 40 years, but still bacterial infections constitute some of the greatest problems in medicine . Pneumococci causing pneumonia, bacteremia, meningitis and otitis are a leading cause of illness and death . The exact incidence and lethality of pneumococcal infections is not known, however, since they are not reportable diseases in most countries and since microbiological diagnosis is difficult . In the latest years some significant progresses have been made for the diagnosis of infections caused by pneumococci, especially pneumonia . This is for example the counterimmunoelectrophoresis (CIE) for antigen determination, the transtracheal aspiration (TTA) for direct bacterial cultivation from trachea, and serological assays like radioimmunoassay (RIA) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for pneumococcal capsular antibody determination . These techniques have further emphasized the significance of pneumococcal infections . The recent finding of pneumococci resistant to penicillin and some other antibiotics also emphasizes the need for immunological prophylaxis . In recent years a vaccine consisting of the purified, most common pneumococcal polysaccharides has been introduced . It has been shown to protect against pneumonia, pneumococcal infections in splenectomized individuals and people with spherocytosis and probably partly against otitis media . Indications for the vaccine are suggested.

Acta Microbiol Pol, 1979, 28(3), 237 - 44
The effect of organic substrate concentration on activity for microbiological reduction of sulfates; Domka F et al.; Lactate, pyruvate, malate and alpha-glycerophosphate are excellent sources of energy and structural carbon for Desulfovibrio vulgaris . A fully stoichiometric course of the sulfate reduction process has been observed . A simplified equation of the reaction describing the respiration process of the above bacteria in the presence of alpha-glycerophosphate is proposed.

Zahn Mund Kieferheilkd Zentralbl, 1979, 67(4), 339 - 45
{Sugar-substitutes in the prevention of dental caries (author's transl)}; Banoczy J; Investigations performed with sugar-substitutes showed that from the partial substitution of carbohydrate in the food a significant cariesreduction may be expected . According to the data of the microbiological, pH, animal experiments and clinical examinations xylit proved to be the least cariogen agent and sorbit too has a reduced cariogen effect.

Nahrung, 1979, 23(5), 509 - 15
{Improvement in the quality of rape seed by combining silage with fodder sugar beets . 1 . Quality evaluation of the silages}; Kozlowski M et al.; Industrial-scale studies showed that the addition of rape-seed flakes to half sugar mangels improves the feeding value and the quality of the silages . Furthermore, it was found that the development of yeasts was inhibited and that the propagation of acidifiers was retarded as the proportion of rape-seed increased . The microbiological analysis indicates that the amount of rape-seed added to the half sugar mangels should not exceed 10%.

Am J Hosp Pharm, 1979 Jan, 36(1), 33 - 8
Cefoxitin sodium compatibility with intravenous infusions and additives; O'Brien MJ et al.; The compatibility and stability of cefoxitin sodium in solution with a series of frequently used intravenous infusion fluids and injectable additives were studied . Cefoxitin sodium's stability in various solutions was measured by ultraviolet spectrophotometry, iodometry, thin-layer chromatography, high-pressure liquid chromatography, ion-exchange chromatography and microbiological assay . Cefoxitin sodium was shown to maintain 90% of its initial concentration in aqueous solution for 40 hours at room temperature (25 C) and about 30 days at 5 C . The stability of cefoxitin sodium in common i.v . infusion fluids was independent of the concentrations (1 mg/ml to 400 mg/ml) and containers used, and was retained after 30 weeks storage at -20 C . Similar stability patterns were demonstrated for cefoxitin sodium in protein hydrolysate solutions and multivitamin formulations . Cefoxitin sodium was chemically and visually compatible with amikacin sulfate, gentamicin sulfate, kanamycin sulfate and tobramycin sulfate when admixed with normal saline or 5% dextrose in water injections . Cefoxitin sodium (397 mg/ml) in 0.5% lidocaine hydrochloride was stable after 26 weeks of storage at -20 C . Sodium cefoxitin is compatible with a wide variety of commonly used infusion solutions . Its stability is independent of concentration or pH within the ranges studied, and of types of common containers.

Med Klin, 1978 Dec 15, 73(50), 1780 - 4
{Treatment of chronic bronchitis with Supristol and a cotrimoxazole preparation--comparative bacteriological and clinical findings, results of a double-blind study (author's transl)}; Knothe H et al.; In a randomized double-blind study on the treatment of chronic bronchitis, Supristol (co-trifamole) was compared with co-trimoxazole . 163 patients participated in the clinical trial that was performed at three different hospitals in accordance with a uniform trial plan . The microbiological investigations were done centrally at a hygiene institute for all three hospitals . The bacteriological results from the 61 patients whose antibiogram revealed sensitive pathogens before starting the therapy demonstrate the equal effectivenesss of the two preparations . With Supristol there was an elimination rate of 95.3%, and with co-trimoxazole of 93.2% . The clinical parameters do not show any difference in effectiveness either.

Lab Anim Sci, 1978 Dec, 28(6), 733 - 6
Fiberoptic esophagogastroscopy, brushings, and biopsy in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus); Pazin GJ et al.; The esophagus and stomach of rabbits were examined with a pediatric fiberoptic endoscope . The procedure involved general anesthesia and placement of an endotracheal airway followed by endoscopy . Photography, biopsies, and brushings for histology, cytology, and microbiological cultures were accomplished using this procedure . Rabbits were endoscoped and brushed repetitively on successive days without inducing esophagitis.

Farmaco {Sci}, 1978 Dec, 33(12), 963 - 71
{Some aroylhydrazones of halobenzaldehydes and halogen-substituted 2,5-diaryl-1,3,4-oxadiazoles}; Mazzone G et al.; The preparation of a series of aroylhydrazones of halogenobenzaldehydes (I) - (XI) is described together with that of the corresponding reduction products (XII) - (XXV) and of 2,5-diaryl-1,3,4-oxadiazoles with halogen substitution (XXVI) - (XLIII) . The results of pharmacological and microbiological examination of the compounds is reported.

J Infect Dis, 1978 Dec, 138(6), 742 - 6
Use of enteric vaccines in protection against chlamydial infections of the genital tract and the eye of guinea pigs; Nichols RL et al.; Guinea pigs in a test group were fed living guinea pig inclusion conjunctivitis (GPIC) organisms classified as Chlamydia psittaci in 60% yolk-sac suspensions as enteric vaccines, while animals in a control group received uninfected yolk sac . Seven test animals and 14 control animals were challenged 11 or 22 days later with 1,000 50% infectious doses of GPIC organisms in either the conjunctiva or the vagina . Evidence of protection from mucosal infection in both sites was noted in test animals . Clinically, the disease was less severe, and microbiologically, lower percentages of mucosal cells were infected . The results suggest that enteric vaccination against mucosal infections of the eye and the genital tract with chlamydial agents is possible.

Clin Chem, 1978 Dec, 24(12), 2145 - 50
An enzymatic radioassay for gentamicin; Case RV et al.; An enzymatic, radiochemical assay procedure for measuring serum gentamicin by use of gentamicin 3-acetyl-transferase and {acetyl-14C}acetyl-Coenzyme A is described and evaluated . The enzyme stoichiometrically and quantitatively transfers a radioactive label to the analyte during a 10-min incubation at 37 degrees C . The labeled gentamicin is then absorbed onto phosphocellulose paper discs, which are washed to remove unreacted {acetyl-14C}-acetyl-Coenzyme A and counted in a liquid scintillation counter for 1 min each . The assay detects gentamicin in concentrations as low as 0.2 mg/liter and gives a linear response to concentrations as high as 20 mg/liter . Sisomicin, a structural analog of gentamicin, is measured by the procedure, and tobramycin and netilmicin are slightly reactive . No other interferents were found among other aminoglycosides, other antibiotics, or substances endogenous to serum . Results by the new method are compared to those by radioimmunoassay and a microbiological method.

J Infect Dis, 1978 Dec, 138(6), 798 - 803
Clinical and microbiological investigation of men with urethritis; Lee YH et al.; Of 377 men attending clinics for the treatment of sexually transmitted disease, 104 had gonococcal urethritis, 72 had definite nongonococcal urethritis, 53 had possible nongonococcal urethritis, and 123 had no urethritis . A purulent urethral discharge was noted in 78% and 14% of patients with gonococcal urethritis and definite nongonococcal urethritis, respectively (P less than 0.001) . In contrast, 4% and 64% of men with gonococcal urethritis and definite nongonococcal urethritis, respectively, had a clear urethral discharge (P less than 0.001) . Black men with urethritis were more likely to have gonococcal infection, whereas white men were more likely to have nongonococcal urethritis . Homosexual and bisexual white men with urethritis were more likely to have gonorrhea, whereas heterosexual white men with urethritis were more likely to have nongonococcal urethritis . Heterosexual men were more likely than homosexual men to be colonized with Ureaplasma urealyticum . There were no differences in the rates of colonization with Mycoplasma hominis among heterosexual and homosexual men.

Clin Chem, 1978 Dec, 24(12), 2186 - 91
Results with commercial radioassay kits compared with microbiological assay of folate in serum and whole-blood; McGown EL et al.; We compared results with three commercial folate radioassay kits {Bio-Rad, New England Nuclear (NEN), and RIA Products} with those by microbiological assay for more than 200 samples of human serum and whole blood . All but one kit (NEN) compared favorably with the microbiological assay for serum samples, although there were notable diagnostic discrepancies . Two kits (NEN and Bio-Rad) were tested on whole-blood samples; both yielded values significantly higher than those by microbiological assay . The frequency distributions of erythrocyte folate data differed strikingly between the two kits; the NEN method yielded a much narrower range of normal values than did either the Bio-Rad or the microbiological assay . Radioassay kits appear to be suitable diagnostic agents for serum folate, if the behavior of a particular kit is investigated thoroughly before its routine use . However, the diagnostic value of radioassays of erythrocyte folate needs to be validated.

Fortschr Med, 1978 Nov 23, 96(44), 2238 - 42
{Cytological smears in gynecological practice}; Brunner O; The technique of gynecological smear is discussed . Since poor results, i.e . false-negative findings, are frequently caused by an inadequate preparation, the possible errors in smear taking and their elimination are described . The validity of additional microbiological and cyto-hormonal findings in routine smear is pointed out.

Sem Hop, 1978 Nov 8-15, 54(37-40), 1137 - 43
{Use of plastic isolators in the prevention of infection in high risk patients with hematologic diseases}; Bergerat JP et al.; The authors report a microbiological study of the flora of high risk adults with blood diseases isolated in hermetically sealed plastic isolater . This type of isolation is very effective in the prevention of infections due to hospital germs as such contamination occurred only twice in 292 days isolation and was found in only 0.8% on samples . The efficacy of methods of body decontamination and the incidence of infective complications in our series is also reported.

Biol Bull Acad Sci USSR, 1978 Nov-Dec, 5(6), 747 - 9
Microbiological 1,2-dehydration of microcrystalline epihydrocortisone and its 21-acetate; Borman EA et al.; A method is described for obtaining epiprednisolone and its 21-acetate by means of microbiological 1,2-dehydration by a culture of Mycobacterium globiforme 193 . The substrate, epihydrocortisone or its 21-acetate, is added in the form of a microcrystalline suspension at a concentration of 25-100 g/liter medium.

Aust Fam Physician, 1978 Nov, 7(11), 1453 - 60
Diagnosis and management of acute diarrhoea in adults; Kronborg IJ et al.; Acute diarrhoea is a frequent, worldwide complaint . On any given day, 200 million people suffering from gastroenteritis will pass a volume of diarrhoeal water comparable with the flow of water over the Victoria Falls in one minute . In most attacks, routine microbiological techniques will fail to demonstrate the cause.

Paraplegia, 1978 Nov, 16(3), 237 - 43
The role of the microbiologist in the treatment and rehabilitation of patients with spinal cord injuries; Lindan R; Local and systemic infections represent major obstacles to the successful rehabilitation of patients following spinal cord injury . Their detection, prevention and management are greatly aided by the inclusion of a microbiologist in the rehabilitation team and by the provision of a simple laboratory in close geographic proximity to the spinal cord injury unit . The role and scope of activities of the SCI team-microbiologist, and the suggested location and basic equipment for a small laboratory are described . Some of the advantages to be gained from such microbiological monitoring are discussed.

Antibiotiki, 1978 Nov, 23(11), 965 - 70
{Growth kinetics model of the oxytetracycline producer taking into account the concentrations of 2 substrates}; Biriukov VV et al.; The effect of starch and ammonium sulphate on the growth of the oxytetracycline-producing organism was studied using the procedure of acute experiments . It was proposed to use a mathematical model for description of the dependences taking into account the possibility of limiting or suppressing the growth of the culture by any of the above substrates as dependent on their ratio in the medium . Satisfactory confirmity of the model to the experimental data was shown . It was noted that similar models may be successfully used for description of such dependences as curves with flat plateau in the region of the maximum which are often met in microbiological processes.

Stomatol DDR, 1978 Nov, 28(11), 763 - 9
{Clinical and microbiological studies on the effect of locally applied aminofluorides on bacterial plaque and gingiva condition of Soviet school children}; Klimm W et al.; In a short-term (over 4 weeks) clinico-microbiological study on 18 Soviet school children, 12 years of age, it was found that a supervised oral hygiene action with the amine fluoride-containing caries-preventing agents Silca and Elmex fluid (produced in the GDR) had resulted in a marked reduction in plaque formation, an improvement in gingival conditions and a reduction of the germ content in the plaques.

Antibiotiki, 1978 Nov, 23(11), 975 - 81
{Simple qualitative methods of detecting beta-lactamase-producing strains of microorganisms}; Givental' NI et al.; Modifications of two microbiological qualitative methods for detection of beta-lactamase-producing microbial strains are described . The methods are based on the principle of Goths . One of the methods named "contact" significantly differs from the prototype and is more simple, convenient, easily reproducible and does not require the use of special equipment and special training of the staff.

J Antibiot (Tokyo), 1978 Nov, 31(11), 1183 - 7
The pH-dependent influence of aminoglycoside antibiotics on iodohippurate accumulation in rabbit renal cortical slices; Milman N et al.; The effects of aminoglycoside antibiotics on 125I-hippurate (OIH) accumulation in rabbit renal cortical slices were assessed in vitro using incubation media with pH-values ranging from 6.4 to 8.4 and containing streptomycin, kanamycin, amikacin, gentamicin and tobramycin in concentrations ranging from 100 to 2,000 microgram base/ml . The aminoglycoside-induced inhibition of OIH accumulation was clearly pH-dependent and most pronounced at alkaline pH-values . At pH 6.4 and 7.4 the aminoglycosides had either no or only moderate effects on OIH accumulation, while all drugs produced a distinct depression in accumulation at pH 7.9 and 8.4 . The microbiologically inert N-acetyl gentamicin had no influence on accumulation . The influence of aminoglycosides on OIH accumulation is probably related to the pKa-values of these drugs and implies the presence of free amino groups.

Langenbecks Arch Chir, 1978 Oct 16, 346(3), 149 - 66
{Occlusion of pancreatic duct system by injection of a fast-solidifying amino acid solution (author's transl)}; Gebhardt C et al.; The effect of the occlusion of the pancreatic duct system with a new alcoholic solution of amino acids has been studied in animal experiments . The solution becomes solid in the duct system, is microbiologically indifferent and becomes disintegrated within 11 days . This time, however, is sufficient to keep a high-grade atrophy of the exocrine parenchyma . With this method one doesn't risk the provocation of an acute pancreatitis . The development of fistulas following exploratory excision is prevented by the filling of the duct system . The solution could be qualified for a therapeutical acceleration of the "burning-out" of the chronic pancreatitis.

J Biol Chem, 1978 Oct 10, 253(19), 6673 - 9
Purification and characterization of tetrahydrofolate.protein complex in bovine liver; Watabe S; Gel filtration of bovine liver extract on a Sephadex G-200 column resolved three macromolecular fractions with dihydropteridine reductase-dependent cytochrome c reducing activity . One of the active fractions was purified from the extract through the steps of solvent fractionation, chromatography on DEAE-Sephadex, and gel filtration . Biochemical and microbiological analyses showed that the purified complex consists of a Mr = 70,000 protein and tetrahydropteroyldiglutamate . In contrast to the extreme lability of free tetrahydropteridines the complex was quite stable against autooxidation under aerobic conditions.

Arch Sci Med (Torino), 1978 Oct-Dec, 135(4), 603 - 7
{Short-term treatment of vaginal trichomoniasis and moniliasis . Clinical trial of a soluble complex of mepartricin}; Da Bormida G et al.; The efficacy and tolerance of mepartricin sodium lauryl sulphate (SPA-S-222) was evaluated in patients with vaginal trichomoniasis and/or moniliasis . One group received 4 tablets/day for 3 days (group "A"), and the other (group "B") 1 tablet/8 hr for 4 days . A lasting microbiological cure was obtained in all cases . Tolerance was better in group "B" and it is felt that this protocol should be preferred.

Clin Chem, 1978 Oct, 24(10), 1770 - 3
Non-equilibrium enzyme immunoassay of gentamicin; Mattiasson B et al.; We describe a fast, accurate non-equilibrium enzyme immunoassay for serum gentamicin . With use of isokinetic conditions an assay takes a total of 12 min, including regeneration of the immunosorbent . The coefficient of correlation between the present method and conventional microbiological assays was 0.98.

Hospitals, 1978 Sep 16, 52(18), 111 - 2, 114, 116-7
Preparing tube feedings in-house; Davis J et al.; Tube feeding is a therapeutic technique that is widely used in various medical specialties . This article describes the economic and microbiological considerations used by Goldwater Memorial Hospital, New York City, in its decision to prepare tube feedings in-house.

J Assoc Off Anal Chem, 1978 Sep, 61(5), 1222 - 7
Effect of storage and processing on tetracycline residues in meat and bones; Honikel KO et al.; A semiquantitative microbiological screening test for antibiotics, a sensitive and quantitative microbiological assay, and a fluorometric method specific for tetracyclines are described . Using these procedures, tetracycline residues in animals derived from feed can be detected in tissues like organs, muscles, and bones . Meat contaminated with chlortetracycline (CTC) and oxytetracycline (OTC) and stored at +8 degrees C and -22 degrees C showed very little decrease in antibiotic concentration; however, heating above 65 degrees C reduced the tetracycline content in meat . Temperatures above 130 degrees C were necessary to destroy CTC in bones, CTC in bones was insoluble above pH 4 . Manufacturing products with contaminated meat reduced the tetracycline content only if heating was involved.

J Assoc Off Anal Chem, 1978 Sep, 61(5), 1214 - 21
Method for antibiotic determination in animal tissue, as applied to lasalocid; Mac Donald A; The development of a tissue residue method for an antibiotic is dependent on the history of the overall problem; the current requirements that must be met for regulatory approval; the chemistry of the compound; its physical/chemical parameters; and its microbiological spectrum for the best possible fit of all of these to ensure a procedure that will work reliably in the originator's laboratory and to the same degree of effectiveness in anyone's laboratory . A note is made of those factors that must be included as controls on the procedure and those experiments that must be included to differentiate matrix from method influences.

Hum Pathol, 1978 Sep, 9(5), 567 - 78
Genital actinomycosis and intrauterine contraceptive devices . Cytopathologic diagnosis and clinical significance; Bhagavan BS et al.; PIP: Occurrence of Actinomyces in 36 women (from September 1976-May 1977) diagnosed by Papinocolaou (Pap)-stained cervical smears (total of 9191 smears) is characterized as "relatively frequent," occurring exclusively in those women wearing an IUD or foreign vaginal body (pessaries) . Fluorescein isothiocyante labeled antiserum was used to identify Actinomyces israelii in 8 randomly selected smears . In 5 cases, Actinomyces was demonstrated in tissues obtained by endocervical and endometrial curettage . The recovery rate of Actinomyces in anaerobic microbiological cultures was 36.3%, with a yield of 4 positive cultures . Of the 36 patients with smear evidence of the organism, 9 (25%) had pelvic inflammatory diseases (PID); this rate appears to be much higher than the high rate already established for IUD wearers . Pap-stained smears, easily used in a community hospital, provide an easy, inexpensive, fast and highly specific method for morphologically diagnosing Actinomyces, and its use is recommended to recognize at a relatively early stage a group of patients who are potentially at risk for the development of PID .

Prax Klin Pneumol, 1978 Sep, 32(9), 584 - 92
{Pharmacokinetics of rifampicin in gastrectomized persons (author's transl)}; Biehl T et al.; A laboratory method was developed whereby the presence of Rifampicin in the blood is determined microbiologically by means of a diffusion test . The organism used was Sarcina lutea . The tests established that the Rifampicin levels in the blood of pylorogastrectomized persons were significantly higher then they were in a normal control group . The daily changes in the Rifampicin levels were simulated and checked by analogue computer . The findings indicated that the increased absorption in gastrectomized persons cannot be due to accelerated passage and that it is presumably attributable to chemical and physical factors . The results are analysed statistically and summarized in graphs.

J Assoc Off Anal Chem, 1978 Sep, 61(5), 1107 - 12
Microbiological method for assaying lincomycin in animal feed: collaborative study; Neff AW et al.; A microbiological assay for determining lincomycin in swine feed, supplement, and a vitamin-mineral premix was studied collaboratively in 16 laboratories . The design of the study involved a complete feed, feed supplement, and a vitamin-mineral premix covering a range of fortification from 20 to 80 g/ton and 80 to 2600 g/ton . Two methods of sample preparation were used depending on the concentration of lincomycin in the sample . Statistical evaluation of the results from the 2 methods indicated that 10 and 11 collaborators, respectively, had mean recoveries which were not significantly different from one another . Ten laboratories obtained a mean recovery of 112.2% (range 102.3--123.5%) for the lower level, and 11 laboratories obtained a mean recovery of 104.4% (range 100.0--107.7%) for the higher level . The method has been adopted as official first action.

J Periodontol, 1978 Sep, 49(9), 449 - 56
Venery and Vincent's? 15 case reports and discussion; Wirthlin MR et al.; Fifteen case reports of necrotizing gingivitis in young adult white male servicemen of low socioeconomic background, low pay grade, and in the first few years of enlistment have been presented . Stochastic review of data indicates that a behavior pattern of promiscuous sexual intercourse may be another important predisposing factor prior to the onset of this acute disease . Military personnel who are confined during training or in operations where open social contacts are not possible do not seem to have as high an incidence as those free for time off the base . The case pattern for naval personnel at Great Lakes is similar to that of other naval personnel who sustain gonorrheal infections . The behavioral patyern of young adult males therefore may account for a high incidence in a population which is usually in good health . Preliminary microbiological samplings from the necrotic lesions of the subjects reported upon were negative for the isolation of incriminating microorganisms . In the absence of a known etiologic agent, and with only patient's testimony as evidence, the clinician should not draw conclusions, but he should be aware of a possible venereal relationship with necrotizing gingivitis in young adults.

J Chromatogr, 1978 Aug 21, 156(1), 211 - 7
Detection of preservatives in pharmaceutical and cosmetic products using agar gel electrophoresis; Moore KE et al.; A method is described using high voltage agar gel electrophoresis for the separation and microbiological detection of preservatives in pharmaceutical and cosmetic products . The positions of the preservatives were detected as zones of inhibition of a test organism within the nutrient agar gel and can be characterised by their migration, shape and presence of a halo . A wide range of preservatives commonly used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic preparations could be detected in low concentrations . The method however was not suitable for certain volatile preservatives and many primarily antifungal compounds could be detected above their use concentration.

Experientia, 1978 Aug 15, 34(8), 1020 - 2
Microbiological oxidation of the pentyl side chain of cannabinoids; Robertson LW et al.; Syncephalastrum racemosum ATCC 18192 and Mycobacterium rhodochrous ATCC 19067 partially degrade the n-pentyl side chain of cannabidiol, cannabinol, delta8-tetrahydrocannabinol and delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol . Carboxylic acid and alcohol side chain derivatives are major metabolites.

Ann Microbiol (Paris), 1978 Aug-Sep, 129B(2), 225 - 44
{Amoebae in swimming-pools: microbiological and epidemiological aspects (author's transl)}; Dive D et al.; An inquiry was held to determine the occurrence and quantitative importance of "Limax" amoebae in 8 swimming-pools of the North of France . The influence of water flow system, filters and water disinfectants was studied . The connections with the bacterial flora growing at 37 degrees C and the presence of strains able to grow at 41 degrees were analyzed . The significance of their presence in the swimming-pools is discussed from the obtained results.

Z Geburtshilfe Perinatol, 1978 Aug, 182(4), 307 - 11
Local immunity in pregnant women; Tustanowski J et al.; Immunoglobulins IgA and IgG levels and Lysozyme-activity were examined in the vaginal fluid of 70 pregnant women and 30 non-pregnant women where microbiological examinations did not detect any pathological microorganisms . To confirm the local character of immune factors produced in the female genital tract, these factors were also examined in the sera . An increase of class A immunoglobulins was noted in the vaginal fluid and examined sera . IgA/IgG ratio as well as statistical calculations confirmed the local origin of antibodies within the classes . The lysozyme activity was 10 times greater in the vaginal fluid than in the sera . Both factors are relatively simple to determine and in women with recurrent inflammatory conditions of the vaginal tract can be used as indicators of the local immunity state.

J Pharm Sci, 1978 Aug, 67(8), 1050 - 3
Assays and statistical analyses for antibiotic standards; Tarcza E et al.; Some microbiological assays and statistical analyses of test results used by the National Center for Antibiotics Analysis are described for the establishment of offical antibiotic reference standards . Examples are given of both cylinder plate agar diffusion assays and turbidimetric assays . Formulas providing simple and quick analyses of data are shown for calculating potency, determining limits for the potency, and performing validity tests on the results.

Zentralbl Bakteriol {B}, 1978 Aug, 167(1-2), 63 - 82
{Application of a new method for the calculation and description of the resistance of microbiological indicators . I . Testing of several common microbiological sterilization indicators (author's transl)}; Spicher G et al.; The method described by SPICHER and PETERS (1975) for the calculation and description of the resistance of microbiological indicators was tested . As test objects served spore-containing earth according to DIN 58946, Attest indicators (3 M Company, Minnesota) and Oxoid Spore Strips (Oxoid Ltd., London) . The tests were performed not only for different batches of indicators but also for preparations of different age . After application of steam (120 degrees C), the indicators were examined for the presence of surviving germs capable of multiplication . When plotting the frequency of indicators with surviving germs (q) against the duration of steam action, S-shaped curves were obtained as expected . By altering the scale of the ordinate (y = lg (-ln(1 - q))), the S-shaped curves could be transformed into straight lines . Thus, the experimentally established paired values could be used for a calculation of regression . This method of calculation proved to be suitable in all cases studied . By indicating the position and the slope of these straight regression lines, the resistance of microbiological indicators can be exactly described (cf . Table 2) . This method is applicable not only to indicators containing culture spores but also for native spore-containing earth . The indicators examined differed in their resistance and stability . Seven out of eight batches of Attest indicators (cf Figs . 1 and 2 and Table 1) fulfilled the requirements of DIN 58946, Part 4, for the resistance of bio-indicators for steam sterilization . One of the batches had a slightly higher resistance . The Attest indicators tested were of good stability (see Fig . 1 and Table 1) . Where surviving germs were present on the indicators after treatment by steam, their growth was recognizable, in 99% of cases, already after incubation of the cultures for 24 hours . Only two batches of Oxoid Spore Strips were available for testing . One batch was of a higher resistance than required by DIN 58946 . The second batch was slightly above the lower limit of the permissible range (see Fig . 3) . During storage for 12 months, the resistance of both batches was reduced by 3--4 min . Where the indicators exhibited surviving germs after treatment by steam, growth was recognizable in 87% of the cases after incubation for 24 hours, while for the other indicators, incubation for 48 hours was necessary . The experiments confirmed the good stability of native spore-containing earth (see Fig . 5) . Within 4--5 years, the steam resistance of the preparations decreased only by 3--4 min.

Acta Pathol Microbiol Scand {B}, 1978 Aug, 86(4), 257 - 9
Chlamydia trachomatis from men with non-gonococcal urethritis . Simplified procedure for cultivation and isolation in replicating McCoy cell culture; Csango PA; Chlamydia trachromatis was cultivated on replicating McCoy cells without the addition of antimetabolites . A further technical modification was centrifugation of the specimens at room temperature at 4000 g, thus making it possible to use the method in any microbiological laboratory . C . trachomatis was isolated from 36 of 81 patients (44.4%) with non-gonococcal urethritis . This rate compares well with reported isolation rates using antireplicative agents and higher centrifugation temperatures.

SSO Schweiz Monatsschr Zahnheilkd, 1978 Aug, 88(8), 837 - 67
{Total prosthesis--a review of the literature}; Kundert M; A review of literature on full denture prosthetics is given with reference to the newest scientific results with clinical relevance . Presently, the accent seems to be on gerontological problems, on basic research of the denture bearing tissues and on the entire masticatory system after loss of teeth and under the influence of prosthetic rehabilitation . Finally research on dental materials and on microbiological problems are raised . An increasing number of investigations critically deals with existing and clinically proven methods and concepts of full denture construction . In the review of literature special fields like hybrid prosthetics and defect prosthetics have not been included, prosthetic materials only in special instances.

Zentralbl Bakteriol {B}, 1978 Aug, 167(1-2), 115 - 9
{Chemical parameters in coastal waters in correlation with microbiological parameters (author's transl)}; Jentsch F et al.; Nearly 4600 samples of coastal water from the Baltic Sea were characterized by microbiological parameters as well as by pH, ammonium, nitrite, nitrate, phosphate, and oxidizability by permanganate . Correlation of E . coli with chemical parameters varies strongly according to parameter, region, and season . Sanitary assessments can only be based on microbiological findings.--As regards eutrophication, we should expect special and more comprehensive chemical test programmes to give us substantial knowledge, whereas chemical tests after the EC guidelines for bathing waters along the Baltic Sea coast would mean considerable work and costs without getting any new results.

S Afr Med J, 1978 Jul 8, 54(2), 71 - 3
Nocardiosis . Case report and review of the diagnosis and treatment; De Villiers DM; Purulent draining skin sinuses are a striking clinical finding when Nocardia organisms infect skin or deeper tissues and the lesion is often mistakenly ascribed to actinomycotic infection . This distinction is important because in contrast to actinomycosis, nocardiosis does not respond to treatment with penicillin or most antibiotics, and a fulminating systemic infection may occur . Smears made from purulent discharges do not always show the organism and microbiological culture may likewise prove fruitless . This article reports a patient suffering from nocardiosis and the pitfalls in diagnosis are illustrated . Successful culture of the organism was obtained by inoculating media with fresh biopsy material and a plea is made for routine use of this method . The need to use sulphadiazine in high doses initially, followed by maintenance treatment for considerable time, is emphasized.

Biol Bull Acad Sci USSR, 1978 Jul-Aug, 5(4), 535 - 8
Microbiological processes in the soil under various methods of irrigation; Gromyko EP; A study was made of the effect of various methods of irrigation on yields of spring wheat and development of soil microorganisms in the cultivated layer and the layers below of dark-chestnut soil of the Saratov Oblast . Irrigation increases the number of microorganisms in the plowed layer and the layer beneath . Sprinkling has a greater effect on yield of agricultural crops and on microbiological processes.

J Antibiot (Tokyo), 1978 Jul, 31(7), 681 - 7
The syntheses and biological properties of 1-N-(S-4-amino-2-hydroxybutyryl)-gentamicin B and 1-N-(S-3-amino-2-hydroxypropionyl)-gentamicin B; Nagabhushan TL et al.; The syntheses of 1-N-(S-4-amino-2-hydroxybutyryl)-gentamicin B and 1-N-(S-3-amino-2-hydroxypropionyl)-gentamicin B, designated sch 20287 and Sch 21420, respectively, by procedures similar to those developed by KAWAGUCHI and co-workers for the transformation of kanamycin A to amikacin are described . The in vitro microbiological properties of Sch 20287 and Sch 21420 are compared with amikacin, gentamicin and tobramycin.

Vopr Pitan, 1978 Jul-Aug, (4), 68 - 70
{Content of antibiotic residues in food products}; Vorob'eva TV; By using the microbiological method of diffusion into agar it was noted that meat and dairy products contain residual amounts of tetracycline and penicillin from 0.01 up to 1.0 Un/g/ml, and of streptomycin--up to 2.4 Un/g . Tetracycline was more often found in the hog liver, cottage cheese and in sour cream.

J Assoc Off Anal Chem, 1978 Jul, 61(4), 918 - 22
Improved microbiological assay for penicillin residues in milk and dairy products; Katz SE et al.; The microbiological assay for penicillin residues in milk was improved . Acidification of milk with phosphoric acid to pH 4.5, centrifugation to remove precipitated proteinaceous matter, adjustment of pH to 6.0, a second centrifugation, and the use of a 2% agar base layer resulted in the consistent measurement of 0.01 unit penicillin activity/ml milk . Sarcina lutea was used as the assay organism . Recoveries in milk averaged 94%, in nonfat dry milk 84%, in cottage cheese 97%, and in cream cheese 94%.

Chirurg, 1978 Jul, 49(7), 428 - 30
{The elimination of the excretory pancreatic parenchyma by means of intraductal injection of a rapidly hardening solution of aminoacids}; Gebhardt CH et al.; The effect of the occlusion of the pancreatic duct system uith a new alcoholic solution of aminoacids has been studied in animal experiments . The solution solidifies in the duct system, is microbiologically indifferent, and becomes disintegrated within 11 days . The development of fistulas following exploratory excision is prevented by the filling of the duct system . The solution could be suitable for a therapeutic acceleration of the "burning-out" of the chronic pancreatitis.

J S Afr Vet Assoc, 1978 Jul, 49(2), 89 - 98
{Infectious causes of perinatal mortalities in ruminants (author's transl)}; Coetzer JA et al.; The advantages and disadvantages of the different diagnostic techniques e.g . pathological and microbiological studies, immunoglobulin and specific antibody determinations and fluorescent antibody studies in relation to these mortalities are discussed . The most important pathological lesions in the placentas and foetuses are described.

Appl Environ Microbiol, 1978 Jul, 36(1), 95 - 104
Effects of dispersed recreational activities on the microbiological quality of forest surface water; Varness KJ et al.; The microbiological quality of forest surface waters in the Greenwater River watershed was examined to investigate the influence of heavy motorized camping in an area with no sanitary facilities . Indicator densities increased during weekend human-use periods when compared to weekdays . Increases in indicator densities were also noted downstream from heavily used camping areas when compared to upstream sites . Seasonal, weekly, and diurnal fluctuations in indicator densities were observed . This study suggests that potential health hazards exist in this watershed during periods of human use.

Contact Dermatitis, 1978 Jun, 4(3), 157 - 64
Cosmetic regulatory activities in the United States: past, present and future; Eiermann HJ; To protect consumers from unsafe or decptively labeled cosmetics, the Food and Drug Administration promulgates regulations, conducts factory inspections, investigates mardeted products, evaluates consumer complaints, maintains registries of voluntarily submitted formulation and adverse reaction information, and carries out analytical, microbiological and toxicological studies . There has been a significant shift in program priorities from surveillance activities to scientific research and the determination of systemic hazards to health . Major scientific efforts involve studies to determine the dermal toxicity of cosmetics, develop methods for predicting the efficacy of preservatives, and answer questions about the skin penetration and carcinogenicity of nitrosodiethanolamine . A further issue of concern is the carcinogenic hazard of hair dyes.

Am J Hosp Pharm, 1978 Jun, 35(6), 678 - 82
Recommended procedures for in-use testing of large volume parenterals suspected of contamination or of producing a reaction in a patient . National Coordinating Committee on Large Volume Parenterals; Use of {14C}lysine to detect microbial contamination in liquid foods; A radiometric method for microbiological control in food industries is suggested . This method, based on the labeling of cells by {14C}lysine, was tested by using nine species of yeast and two species of bacteria.

Med Tekh, 1978 May-Jun, (3), 14 - 8
{Resistance of medical equipment to exposure to molds}; Turkova ZA; When operating biomedical equipment and instruments in areas with tropical climate there arises danger of their microbiological damage . All pieces of equipment and instruments that have to meet requirements as to their resistance to the action of moulds are subjected to testing for mould-resistance . The paper sets forth the results of such tests and their analysis . The resistance of the equipment and instruments depends on the physical and chemical properties and on the technology of manufacture of their materials . The results of the analysis of the results obtained served as a background for recommendations as to the use of resistant materials and effecting measures raising their quality . Such measures include the choice of resistent components, biocides, additives and admixtures to materials and coatings.

Prikl Biokhim Mikrobiol, 1978 May-Jun, 14(3), 450 - 4
{Gas chromatographic method for measuring free lysine in the products of microbiological synthesis}; Bosenko AM et al.; The paper presents a gas chromatography technique for measuring free lysine . The technique allows lysine evaluation in the products and semi-products of microbiological synthesis for 50--80 min with an error of 4--5%.

Prikl Biokhim Mikrobiol, 1978 May-Jun, 14(3), 405 - 9
{Biochemical activity of lactic acid bacterial lyophilized concentrates obtained by continous cultivation}; Krasnikova LV et al.; Microbiological and biochemical parameters of lactic acid bacterial lyophilized concentrates obtained by continous cultivation were investigated during their storage at 3 to 5 degrees C . Under these conditions lyophilized bacterial concentrates retained high activity for three months and after six months their cell survival and biochemical activity decreased by 60--65% on the average.

Am J Hosp Pharm, 1978 May, 35(5), 570 - 4
Confirmation of a computer-derived nomogram to predict gentamicin serum concentrations in postsurgical patients; Russell WL et al.; The applicability of a previously reported nomogram to predict serum gentamicin levels in postsurgical patients was investigated . Seventeen patients accounting for 20 courses of gentamicin were studied . A total of 72 peak serum gentamicin levels were measured by a microbiological assay and compared with predicted serum levels determined by the dosing nomogram . Eighty-five percent of the measured peak gentamicin serum levels agreed with nomogram-predicted levels . This figure was reduced to 65% when certain unforeseen factors (i.e., patient interference with intravenous lines, dosage miscalculation and extra routes of gentamicin elimination) were identified . The nomogram is a particularly useful tool for the clinician to whom serum gentamicin levels are unavailable and who needs a method to predict serum gentamicin concentration based upon a given dosage.

Zentralbl Bakteriol {Orig B}, 1978 May, 166(4-5), 305 - 13
{Hygienic requirements for the architectural-functional design of intensive care units (author's transl)}; Ruden H et al.; Three standard variants of intensive care units are described . The hygienic-microbiological examinations of the patients' surrounding show in how fat architectural factors influence the propagation of germs responsible for nosocomial infections . The results are hygienic requirements concerning the architectural functional structure of intensive care units to facilitate the maintenance of anti- and asepsis for the nursing personal.

J Assoc Off Anal Chem, 1978 May, 61(3), 564 - 8
Improved microbiological assay for penicillin residues in tissues and stability of residues under cooking procedures; Katz SE et al.; The microbiological assay for penicillin residues was improved by using centrifugation to remove physical barriers to diffusion, a small buffer/meat extraction ratio, and a more sensitive 2-layer assay system . Recoveries from muscle, kidney, and liver tissues ranged between 70.1 and 86.7% with measurable levels of 0.03--0.05 unit/g . By comparison, the Food and Drug-suggested methodology yielded recoveries of 45.9--54.0% and levels of detectability of 0.08--0.10 unit/g . Cooking of hamburger, steaks, and port chops indicated that procaine penicillin withstood cooking conditions, and significant levels of the original activity remained.

Med Instrum, 1978 May-Jun, 12(3), 174 - 6
Measurement of critical properties of muslin and nonwoven sterile-wraps; Hultman DP et al.; Empirical evaluations closely simulating actual use conditions were employed to compare critical property levels of commonly used muslin (140-thread) and nonwoven sterile-wraps . Critical properties and experimental methods used to measure these properties are: (a) ease of steam penetration determined by time-temperature measurements in large, double-wrapped packs subjected to steam sterilization, (b) bacterial barrierness measured by microbiological assay of initially sterile double- and single-wrapped packs contents after pack storage in hospitals, (c) compatibility with ethylene oxide sterilization measured by inactivation of spore strips and by quantities of ethylene oxide residuals after aeration of packs and (d) generation of lint by counting particles generated by flexing wrap materials . It was concluded that the nonwoven steril-wrap was superior in ease of steam penetration, bacterial barrierness, and linting . No differnece was detected between materials in ethylene oxide sterilization.

J Med Microbiol, 1978 May, 11(2), 209 - 14
Post-menopausal vaginitis; Ross CA; The organisms cultured from the vaginal swabs of 383 women over 50 years old with vaginal discharge were compared with those from 148 normal women of similar age attending a cytology clinic . The only significant difference was that yeasts were found in 20% and 6% of the two groups of women, respectively . It is therefore concluded that in post-menopausal women with vaginal discharge, the main microbiological requirement is for the diagnosis and treatment of yeast infection.

Mikrobiologiia, 1978 May-Jun, 47(3), 495 - 500
{Sulfate reduction and the water-soluble organic substances in a flooded petroleum bed}; Rozanova EP; The paper presents the analytical data for the hydrochemical and microbiological composition of the water in a stratum undergoing changes as a result of artificial flooding . The highest accumulation of biogenic H2S and the carbon of dissolved organic substance was found in diluted bed waters with mineralization of 17.17 g/litre . The composition of the bitumen carbon of dissolved organic substances changed with dilution of the stratum brine . The data thus obtained suggest the existence of an indirect relationship; oxidized dissolved organic substance--the rate of sulphate reduction . The nature of organic substance appearing in the petroleum stratum is discussed.

J Am Dent Assoc, 1978 May, 96(5), 801 - 4
Interpatient microbiological cross-contamination after dental radiographic examination; White SC et al.; Pairs of patients were evaluated for microbiological cross-contamination after radiographic examination . In 30 of these pairs of patients there was the possibility of transference of S pyogenes, S aureus, or D pneumoniae . Such transference was observed in 23 (77%) of these 30 pairs of patients . The vectors for such transfer include the hands of the X-ray technician and the radiographic equipment . Further, it was found that each of these organisms would survive for at least 48 hours after being placed on an X-ray tube . Since interpatient microbiological cross-contamination can occur after routine radiographic examination, in some cases, disinfection of the radiographic equipment is indicated.

Tijdschr Diergeneeskd, 1978 Apr 15, 103(8), 445 - 50
Lysozyme and its presence in bovine milk and serum; Goudswaard J et al.; The literature on the presence of lysozyme in various biological fluids in physiological and pathological conditions is reviewed . Preliminary results of lysozyme estimations in bovine milk show that lysozyme levels are definitely higher in colostrum and mastitis milk than in normal milk . The biological role of the enzyme in the milk still has to be defined . On the other hand, lysozyme may interfere with microbiological screening techniques for penicillin in cow's milk; the lytic effect of purified human lysozyme on B . stearothermophilus var . calidolactis was demonstrated microscopically.

J Chromatogr, 1978 Apr 11, 151(2), 133 - 46
Gas-liquid chromatographic method for the assay of aminoglycoside antibiotics in serum; Mayhew JW et al.; A gas-liquid chromatographic (GLC) method is presented for the rapid analysis of gentamicin, tobramycin, netilmicin, and amikacin from human serum . This procedure may have application to all aminoglycoside drugs . The three isomers of gentamicin are resolved as two bands, while tobramycin, netilmicin, and amikacin appear in this system as single bands . Normal serum constituents do not interfere with chromatograms . Thus far, no assay interference has been found in cases where other drugs and antibiotics were administered concurrently with aminoglycoside therapy . Dose-response data demonstrating linear recovery are included for all four aminoglycosides as well as a comparison of the GLC method with the microbiological method for the assay of gentamicin and amikacin . Quantitation is based upon the relative response of the antibiotics to a fixed amount of the internal standards, either kanamycin A or paromomycin B . These standards are clearly resolved as symmetrical peaks from the antibiotics of assay interest . Isothermal chromatographic analysis time is less than 8 min, while total assay time per single serum specimen is approximately 50 min . Preparation of serum includes: precipitation, evaporative drying of the supernatant, a two-stage derivatization (N-trimethylsilylimidazole, N-heptafluorobutyrylimidazole), and a single hexane extraction with a water wash . The methodology described may be applied to the analysis of other compounds (e.g., saccharides, amino-saccharides, amino acids, etc.) which do not rapidly partition into an organic phase.

Can J Microbiol, 1978 Apr, 24(4), 409 - 14
Microbiological titration of proteins and of single amino acid content in biological materials without purification and hydrolysis; Puppo S et al.; A method is described for the microbiological determination of the protein content of biological materials . This method can also be adopted to titrate the concentration of a single amino acid in the protein and has the following advantages: (1) titration can be done without purification and hydrolysis of proteins; (2) the titration graph is a straight line between 25 and 800 microgram/ml; (3) protein values agree with those obtained using the Kjeldhal method; and (4) each mutant requiring one amino acid may be used to titrate the concentration of a single amino acid of the protein . The leucine content of various kinds of flour was measured with this system.

J Infect Dis, 1978 Apr, 137(4), 476 - 80
Comparative toxicity of netilmicin and gentamicin in squirrel monkeys (Saimiri sciureus); Igarashi M et al.; Netilmicin was found to be less toxic than gentamicin when administered at comparable dosage levels to squirrel monkeys (Saimiri sciureus) . This finding is based upon data obtained from the following determinations: length of survival period; change in body weight; observation of general change in behavior after daily injection; ataxia, as measured by the squirrel monkey platform-runway test; acoustic reflex threshold; levels of blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine (and pathology of the kidney); and microbiological antibiotic assay.

Chem Phys Lipids, 1978 Apr, 21(1-2), 1 - 29
Lipids of the Streptomycettes . Structural investigation and biological interrelation a review; Batrakov SG et al.; During a systematic investigation of lipids of Streptomycetes a series of compounds of biochemical and microbiological interest have been isolated and characterized . These include several menaquinones, glycosyl diglycerides (glucuronosyl and isoladobinosym diglycerides), two ornithino lipids and a diol phospholipid . Some of these lipids were not known previously as constituents of streptomycete cells although they have been encountered elsewhere; others have proved to be novel lipids . The results of structural studies of these lipids are reviewed and some of their possible biological functions are discussed.

Nouv Presse Med, 1978 Mar 18, 7(11), 917 - 20
{Microbiological verification of the cleanliness of the hands in surgery (author's transl)}; Darbord JC et al.; A technique for sampling organisms on the hands, the so-called "disc method" was tested in three surgical departments, in parallel with the classical method of direct finger print on a gel medium . The respective value of 6 products for washing the hands was assessed in order to demonstrate the possibilities offered by the technique proposed, which is truly quantitative . In particular, it was shown, "in the field", that three products had a very valuable action (Chlorhexidine, Hexachlorophene and a quarternary ammonium salt), but simple washing with Marseille soap followed by rincing with alcohol gave good results, limited only by the absence of any persistent bactericidal action.

Biol Bull Acad Sci USSR, 1978 Mar-Apr, 5(2), 239 - 42
Microbiological oxidation of methane in freshwater lakes of the Mari ASSR; Laurinavichus KS et al.; The quantity of methane-oxidizing microorganisms and intensity of microbiological methane oxidation in lakes of the Mari ASSR were studied . Maximum numbers of bacteria and highest intensity of methane oxidation were observed during summer stagnation in the thermocline, at the interface of aerobic and anaerobic zones . The intensity of oxidation was 4.6--28.1 x 10(-10) cm3 of methane per day per viable cell . During winter stagnation, the intensity of methane oxidation per cell was an order of magnitude lower . Over 69% of oxidized methane carbon was detected in extracellular metabolites, primarily CO2.

Aust Vet J, 1978 Mar, 54(3), 135 - 8
Guttural pouch mycosis in two horses; Rawlinson RJ et al.; The history and clinical findings of 1 horses with guttural pouch mycosis referred to us are described . The salient features of the history and clinical signs common to both cases were profuse spontaneous nasal haemorrhage, partial pharyngeal paralysis; subsequently bilateral nasal discharge containing food material, inability to drink and parotid pain became evident . One case made a gradual recovery with conservative medical treatment while the second case was destroyed and submitted for post-mortem, histopathological and microbiological examination . This examination failed to establish the initiating cause of the lesion but later stages were clearly associated with an invasive septate fungus morphologically resembling Aspergillus.

Mikrobiologiia, 1978 Mar-Apr, 47(2), 362 - 6
{Devices facilitating the preparation of biological specimens for electron microscopy}; Monosov EZ; The construction of a matrix is described which facilitates the process of placing biological objects into polymer media in order to prepare ultrathin sections without the employment of gelatin, starch and polyethylene capsules that can be used only once . The construction of a reactor for cytochemical assays is presented . The apparatus can be used to locate enzymes within the cell, and to identify microorganisms . A modification of the dialysis technique for microbiological objects is proposed which accelerates and simplifies the process.

J Pharm Sci, 1978 Mar, 67(3), 367 - 71
Effects of paper on performance of antibiotic-impregnated disks; Rippere RA; Grades of paper used in the manufacture and assay of antibiotic susceptibility disks have significant effects on the diffusion of antibiotics from the paper when compared to a control grade of paper . The papers also evoke different microbiological responses to changing concentrations of some antibiotics . Regulatory implications and the need for further standardization of assays among control laboratories are explored . Grades of paper generally used for assay and control of susceptibility disks, on the other hand, appear to be comparable to each other in both respects.

Z Rheumatol, 1978 Mar-Apr, 37(3-4), 67 - 80
{Enzyme, enzyme-histochemical and immunohistological studies in chronic erysipelas polyarthritis of swine}; Winkelmann J et al.; The chronic Erysipelas-polyarthritis in pigs has been considered an animal model resembling human rheumatoid arthritis . Fifteen specifically pathogenfree (SPF) pigs 45 days old were experimentally infectec with strain T 28 of Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae-bacteria . During the subsequent 32 weeks several enzymatic, immunohistological and microbiological parameters were monitored . Compared to 5 age and sex matched healthy controls the infected pigs showed increased activity of plasma acid phosphatase starting 4 weeks after the infection . Acid phosphatase activity was usually enhanced in synovial fluid of chronically ill animals . Histochemically increased activity of acid phosphatase, beta-glucuronidase and beta-acetylglucosaminidase was found in lining cells and fibroblasts of the synovial membrane of chronically diseased joints . Immunohistochemically Erysipelas-antigen was demonstrated in the synovial membrane even of those inflamed joints from which no living bacteria had been isolated . The microbiological and immunohistochemical results correlated positively with the enzymehistochemical data . The release of lysosomal enzymes from cells of the synovial membrane in chronically diseased joints due to the influence of Erysipelas-bacteria and the possible implications of persistent bacteria on the perpetuation of chronic Erysipelas-polyarthritis are discussed.

Vet Med (Praha), 1978 Mar, 23(3), 147 - 56
{Isolation and detection of avian adenoviruses on cell cultures}; Casnocha E et al.; It is important, from the hygienic and epizootological view-point, to detect the presence of various microbiological agents in birds . The authors present the results of the virological examination of poultry, avian adenoviruses being the main object of investigation . Ninety-eight virus strains were isolated from chickens of different age categories and were included in the group of avian adenoviruses according to the form of cytopathic changes on the cell cultures of hen kidneys, according to the need for adaptation passages, chloroform, thermal, and pH resistance, character of nucleic acid, formation of intranuclear inclusions, and joint precipitation antigen, shared with the reference virus.

Appl Environ Microbiol, 1978 Mar, 35(3), 517 - 20
Improved microbiological assay procedures for dihydrostreptomycin residues in milk and dairy products; Inglis JM et al.; Because dihydrostreptomycin can remain as a slowly removed antibiotic residue in dairy animals and because of the need for more sensitive procedures with which to provide information concerning antibiotic residues in food products, procedures were developed in more sensitive assays of dihydrostreptomycin in milk and some representative dairy products . The cleanup procedures that aided these improvements were (i) precipitation of milk proteins by acidification and (ii) centrifugation to extract cheeses and to remove physical barriers to diffusion in the cylinder plate assay . In addition, a thin, single seeded assay layer was used to maximize diffusion . Levels of dihydrostreptomycin as low as 0.06 microgram/ml in milk and 0.2 to 0.4 microgram/g in cheeses were measurable; these levels were some fourfold more sensitive than those presently recommended by the Food and Drug Administration.

Vet Rec, 1978 Feb 11, 102(6), 119 - 22
Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) poisoning in farmed red deer (Cervus elaphus); Corrigall W et al.; A series of unexpected deaths and unthriftiness was encountered in red deer at Glensaugh Deer Farm, Kincardineshire, Scotland, in the autumn and winter of 1975--76 . Occurrence and gross post mortem findings suggested a common etiology but microbiological, helminthological and histological examinations indicated that the syndrome was not of infectious or parasitic origin . Some of the lesions suggested an irritant poison . Foxglove plants were found in the pasture and their poisonous potential seemed to fit the post mortem findings and clinical signs . The diagnosis was confirmed by chemical analysis of tissues and botanical examination of rumen contents, and a similar fatality was produced in a penned red deer by test dosing with powdered foxglove leaves . Possible control and treatment are discussed . It is concluded that foxglove poisoning may be an occasional hazard in the husbanding of red deer . The history, clinical syndrome and gross post mortem findings may be sufficiently characteristic to allow a provisional diagnosis to be made in the field.

S Afr Med J, 1978 Feb 11, 53(6), 204 - 8
In vitro effects of bleomycin on a carcinoma of the oesophagus cell line; Saunders RM et al.; A dose of 10 microgram/ml bleomycin inhibited the growth of oesophageal carcinoma cells and non-squamous cells in vitro . Drug concentration, density of cells and the time of exposure to the drug were important variables . The oesophagus cancer cells increased in volume by 2,5 +/- 0,2% per hour until the onset of lysis at 96 hours . The effects of the drug were irreversible even when the exposure time was only 24 hours . A certain proportion of the cell population was resistant to bleomycin and these cells remained resistant when the drug was removed for 48 hours and then replaced . No drug inactivation or uptake could be detected with the use of microbiological assay after 4 days of incubation with 3 cell types . There is poor correlation between in vitro and in vivo results.

Monatsschr Kinderheilkd, 1978 Feb, 126(2), 75 - 80
{Significance of serum-gentamycin measurements in childhood (author's transl)}; Windorfer A et al.; Gentamicin serum levels were determined in 113 children of different ages (premature infants, full-term neonates, infants, older children) using a rapid microbiological method . It turned out to be favourable to take blood samples at two different times (30 and 120 min after administration of drug) . In this way we found out the maximum concentration in serum and moreover by determining the serum half-life the velocity of elimination of the drug . In the group of premature infants mean serum half-life was 3.88 h and significantly longer than serum halflife in the group of older children (1.76 h) or full-term neonates (2.64 h) . Children suffering from urological diseases showed a slower excretion of gentamicin, even when creatinine and urea concentrations in serum were not elevated . The rapid microbiological method used turned out to be reliable, simple and time-saving.

J Pharm Sci, 1978 Feb, 67(2), 191 - 6
Physiological perfusion model for cephalosporin antibiotics I: Model selection based on blood drug concentrations; Greene DS et al.; Various cephalosporins with different degrees of protein binding were administered to human volunteers . Blood samples were collected as a function of time and were assayed for drug content by a microbiological assay . A pharmacokinetic analysis of the data was performed using a two-compartment model with and without protein binding in the central compartment and a perfusion model . Both the two-compartment model without protein binding and the physiological perfusion model adequately described the blood levels of all three cephalosporins.

Z Lebensm Unters Forsch, 1978 Jan 31, 166(1), 1 - 4
{Problems of the presence of potential mycotoxin producers in milk powders for babies (author's transl)}; Jesenska Z et al.; Because of the finding of aflatoxin B1 in the liver of deceased children and in some samples of milk powder, commercial samples of domestic and foreign milk powder intended for babies were examined . From 4950 g of milk powder 11 119 colonies of 29 genera of mould were isolated, averaging 1,9 colonies for the domestic and 0,1 colonies/g for the foreign milk powders . The moulds were uniformly dispersed through the powder, but in one sample the greatest number of colonies was isolated from the surface layer of the powder in the original package . The results of the investigation must lead to a revision of views on the microbiological standards and the production and packaging technologies for baby foods.

Eur J Biochem, 1978 Jan 16, 82(2), 529 - 33
Measurement of testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone 16alpha-hydroxylase activities by a tritium exchange method; Kremers P et al.; A new isotopic method, based upon the stereospecific replacement of a proton (3H) by a hydroxyl group has been developed for the measurement of rat liver testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone 16alpha-hydroxylase activity . Specifically 16-tritiated substrates were prepared by microbiological (Cylindrocarpon radicicola) transformation of the {16-3H}progesterone and {16-3H}pregnenolone . The incubation medium consists of a phosphate buffer (pH7; 150mM), NADPH (0.1 mM), nicotinamide (10mM) and magnesium chloride (4 mM) . Tween 80 (1 mg/ml) is used to solubilize saturating concentrations of {16-3H}testosterone (50 micron) or {16-3H}dehydroepiandrosterone (100 micron) . The enzymatically released tritium is recovered in the incubation medium as tritiated water which is distilled under reduced pressure and counted by liquid scintillation . The method is easy to perform, very sensitive (50 pmol of 16alpha-hydroxylated metabolites) and is independent of any further metabolism of the 16alpha-hydroxylated products.

Clin Chim Acta, 1978 Jan 16, 82(3), 215 - 23
A protein-binding assay for measurement of biotin in physiological fluids; Horsburgh T et al.; A sensitive and convenient protein-binding assay for biotin in physiological fluids is described . The method is based upon the binding of an iodinated biotin conjugate by avidin followed by separation of bound and free conjugate by charcoal absorption . Adult plasma biotin levels averaged 1.26 pmol/ml, a value comparable to that determined by microbiological assays for biotin.

Experientia . 1978 Jan 15;34(1):15.
Microbiological transformation of biflavone; Gandhi P; Incubation of 5,5'-7,7'-tetramethoxy-8,8'-biflavone with Aspergillus niger results in the formation of 4,4'-dihydroxy-5,5'-7,7'-tetramethoxy-8,8'-biflavan.

Med J Aust, 1978 Jan 14, 1(1), 8 - 10
The organization of a human milk bank in a North Q ueensland hospital; Beal D et al.; The development of a human milk bank with nursing mothers as donors of human milk is described . Breast milk is collected manually, and as aseptically as possible, by the mother in the privacy of her home, and the milk is transported frozen to the milk bank by a member of the Nursing Mothers' Association of Australia . A sample of expressed milk is also collected and sent to the Microbiology Department of the Australian Government Health Laboratory for bacteriological examination . The milk bank is suitably located in the paediatric ward of the Townsville General Hospital . Human milk which has been classed as bacteriologically safe is given untreated to hospitalized infants in preference to formula milk . The result is a human milk bank which is administered under medical and microbiological control.

J Chromatogr, 1978 Jan 11, 147, 359 - 67
High-performance liquid chromatographic determination of erythromycin; Tsuji K et al.; An isocratic, reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) method has been developed for the determination of erythromycin . The method uses a muBondapak C18 reversed-phase column with a mobile phase composed of acetonitrile-methanol-0.2 M ammonium acetate-water (45:10:10:35) . The relative standard deviation of the method for quantification of erythromycin is about 0.6%, and the method is capable of selectively quantifying erythromycins A, B, C and at least nine other erythromycin epimers and degradation compounds in 15 min of chromatographic time . The bio-equivalent potencies of erythromycin powders calculated from the HPLC data agreed well with those of the microbiological assay method . The HPLC method developed is also applicable for the analysis of various derivatives of erythromycin.

Vet Med Nauki, 1978, 15(9), 120 - 30
{Physicochemical studies of Pharmachem's tylosin}; Donev B et al.; Studied is the effect of high temperature, light, moisture, the type of the solvent and the reaction in the medium on the chemical stability and biological activity of the tylosine base, tylosine tartarate and tylosine phosphate, produced by the "PHARMACHIM" State Economic Corporation . The evaluation of the effect is carried out by using the spectrophotometric (in the UV-region) and microbiological methods (diffusion in agar with Sarcina lutea A . T . C . C . 7341 as a test microorganism) . It is found that tylosine is stable thermally both as substance and as solution, yet it loses a large part of its activity when the solutions are exposed to ultraviolet or direct sun light . This calls the solutions of the antibiotics in the course of their preparation, storage and application to be protected from the direct effect of light and that they should be packed in light-proof material . Depending on the air moisture (72--98 per cent), the tylosine base absorbs water from 4 to 11 per cent, the tartarate--from 9 to 37.5 per cent, the phosphate--from 8 to 28.5 per cent, the tylosine tartarate (water-soluble form)--from 7 to 32 per cent, and the tylosine phosphate (granules)--from 12 to 39 per cent of their weights . This requires their storage to be limited to dry, airy premises or they should be hermetically packed . Water, ethanol, methanol, phosphate buffers with pH 6--10.0, dimethylformamide and dimethylsulphoxide do not affect the activity of tylosine, but the last two solvents inhibit the diffusion of the antibiotic in agar and are unsuitable for biological tests . The tylosine base, manufactured by the "Elanco" Company, manifests similar properties in relation to thermal stability, light sensitivity, hygroscopicity and diffusions in agar.

Oncology, 1978, 35(6), 235 - 41
Characterisation of an inhibitor of thymidine uptake produced by cultured human melanoma cells; Dent PB et al.; Supernatants of established cultures of human neoplastic and normal cells have been shown to contain a number of different biological activities, including inhibition of DNA synthesis as measured by thymidine uptake . We have found that supernatants of melanoma cell lines contain an inhibitor of thymidine uptake which is heat labile, ultraviolet sensitive, non-filtrable (0.22 mu) and partially sedimentable at 20,000 x g . The mechanism of action of the inhibitor involves the degradation of 3H-thymidine to a non-utilisable form, which we detect by failure of uptake of 3H-thymidine by cultures of mitogen stimulated lymphocytes to which the inhibitor is added . While microbiological tests have failed to reveal mycoplasma contamination of inhibitor producing cultures, treatment of these cultures with kanamycin suppresses inhibitor production . Qualitative evaluation of DNA synthesis by the inhibitor producing cultures using autoradiography and fluorescent DNA staining has confirmed the presence of mycoplasma . With the widespread use of established cell lines in cancer research, it is imperative that screening for mycoplasma contamination go beyond routine microbiological assays . Detection of 3H-thymidine degradation by cell culture supernatants is an additional simple and sensitive indirect test which could be used for this purpose.

Arkh Patol, 1978, 40(9), 79 - 85
{Sudden death syndrome in infants}; Medvedev NIu; The literature data on the so-called sudden death syndrome (SDS) in children are presented . Theories interpreting this condition from epidemiological, morphological, microbiological, immunological, physiological and biochemical positions are discussed . SDS is thought to be an abstract notion including various definite pathological conditions which are thus far difficult to interpret from nosological positions . A possible role of unfavourable constitutional factors in the SDS genesis, particularly under conditions of virus infection conducive to their manifestation is suggested.

Ann Nutr Aliment, 1978, 32(2-3), 597 - 615
{Intermediate moisture foods: polysaccharide and protein gels}; Cheftel C et al.; The aim of this study was to prepare concentrated foods (20-40 p . 100 water), edible as such, chemically and microbiologically stable, nutritionally balanced, and which could be used as meal substitutes (travel, camping, snacks, etc.) . With high methoxyl pectins, it was possible to obtain a pectic gel (pH 3,5), similar to a fruit jelly, but containing 20 p . 100 d.w . protein, and less sucrose . Water activity (Aw) was 0,75-0,78, for a 25 p . 100 water content, as a result of adding glucose syrup and sorbitol . After 4 months storage at 20 or 38 degrees C in aluminium pouches, no mold growth was detected (even following prior inoculation) nor practically any change in flavor, texture of Aw . With low methoxyl pectins, gel foods richer in water (35 p . 100), softer, less acid (pH 4,3) and containing even less sugars have been prepared (26 p . 100 d.w . protein, 35 p . 100 carbohydrates, 15 p . 100 lipids) . Aw was lowered to 0,84 by adding humectants (sucrose, glycerol, sorbitol, citric acid, sodium citrate and chloride) . Starch gels (40 p . 100 starch/d.w.), of pH less than 4,5, containing proteins and lipids, were flavored with vegetale powders . For 30 p . 100 water and with humectants, Aw was 0,84-0,88 . The texture changes more or less favorably with time according to the nature of the starch used . Using the technology of processed cheeses, protein gels were made with either of the following characteristics: 1 . A reduced Aw (0,86, for 38 p . 100 water) by adding humectants, but with a soft texture similar to that of a processed swiss cheese; 2 . The same reduced Aw, with a starch content of 26 p . 100/d.w., and a harder texture, comparable to that of Emmenthal cheese.

Ann Nutr Aliment, 1978, 32(2-3), 545 - 60
{Preservation of meats in a controlled atmosphere}; Rosset R; Commercializing meat sets problems more particularly connected with its organoleptic and microbiological qualities . As these qualities, resulting from biochemical and microbial effects, develop during the storage, the conditioning must precisely help their controlling . After examining their factors, the Author analyses the processes of conditioning which he classifies in three categories according to the techniques used and the desired finality (need to store at -1 degree C + 3 degrees C) . 1 . Conditioning under a steam-proof and gas pervious (O2-CO2) film . Composition of the internal atmosphere permanently close to that of the normal atmosphere . No change in the bright red colouring at the surface (oxymyoglobin) . Microbial growth slowed down by refrigeration . Limited storage (a few days) . Comminuted meat trade . 2 . Conditioning under a totally steam--and gas--proof film . Internal atmospheric air under reduced volume and pressure ("vacuum-packed" meats) . Internal changes during the storage: reduced rate O2; increased rate CO2 (cellular and microbial respirations) . Surface becoming darker (absence of oxymyoglobin) . Growth of the germs arrested (pathogenic and spoilage) . However development of microaerophilic and acidophilic germs (in particular the lactic B.) . Storage possibly extended to 8 weeks . Re-apparition of the red colour after oxygenation (opened package) . Wholesale meat trade . 3 . Conditioning under a film with properties close to that of (2 degrees) . Initial constitution of an internal "artificial" atmosphere increased in O2 and CO2 (gas injection) . No change in the bright red colouring (oxymyoglobin) . Growth of the germs arrested (pathogenic and spoilage) . Selection of an acidophilic aerobic flora including lactic B . and microbacterium . Storage until 12-15 days . Comminuted meat trade.

Ann Nutr Aliment, 1978, 32(2-3), 447 - 58
Influence of heating and keeping warm on the quality of meals; Paulus K et al.; Meals produced on a large scale for public feeding establishments (sterilized, quick frozen, cooled) have to be heated before they are served . Meals prepared in central kitchens are kept warm for several hours . The influence of heating and holding is explained with quick frozen meals being kept warm as examples . If quick frozen meals in multi-portion trays are heated (hot-air oven) under unfavourable conditions and up to high central temperatures, the content of the various vitamins is notably reduced . Vegetable meals also show an inferior sensorical quality . The meals should be kept warm in a way that, on the one hand, microbiological risks are avoided and that, on the other, quality changes are minimized . The higher the holding temperature, the more thermolabile ingredients are destructed . During a holding time up to 5 hours at temperatures ranging from 60 degrees C to 80 degrees C, losses to varying degrees of vitamins C, B1, B2, niacin, retinol and beta-carotin occurred in nearly all meals . A holding time of max . 3 hours seems possible if a certain detraction from the nutrition-physiological and sensorical quality is tolerated.

Arch Exp Veterinarmed, 1978, 32(3), 319 - 26
{Research and production at the Friedrich Loeffler Institute for lifestock protection against virus epidemics in the German Democratic Republic}; Beer J; Friedrich Loeffler's discovery of the pathogen of foot and mouth disease actually ushered in the era of virus research on man and animal and gave birth, at the same time, to efforts for immunoprophylaxis against the disease . This led directly to the foundation of the world's first virological institute on Riems Island . A brief account is given of the developments that have taken place up to our days in research and production at Friedrich-Loeffler Institute for Epizootiological Research on Riems Island . The Institute is affiliated to the Academy of Agricultural Sciences of the German Democratic Republic . The importance of immunoprophylaxis to prevention and control of infectious diseases among agricultural animals has grown on the basis of present microbiological knowledge and along with progress in livestock production . This concept is explained in greater detail, and aspects of fundamental importance to appropriate research are expounded.

Mikrobiologiia, 1978 Jan-Feb, 47(1), 163 - 7
{Increased reliability of the legal protection of Soviet inventions in the field of microbiology}; Korovkin VI; The reliability of juridical protection of microbiological inventions which may result in the production of a commercial product is discussed in the paper . If the structure of an invention is strain-method-product, then juridical protection of each of the objects is possible . Protection of a product would be most reliable, but this is not always possible . Protection of a microbial strain is less typical of an invention, and is not reliable . Protection of a microbiological method of production has advantages over protection of a microbial strain since, in this case, the theory of equivalents can be applied.

Childs Brain, 1978, 4(2), 114 - 9
Intraventricular chloramphenicol; Salmon JH; Very high intraventricular chloramphenicol levels can be obtained if the standard systemic dose is supplemented with a small intraventricular dose . Chloramphenicol sodium succinate can be hydrolyzed to the microbiologically active chloramphenicol in the ventricular fluid . Daily injections are ordinarily adequate to maintain a high concentration of antibiotic . Initial dosage should vary with ventricular volume . The brain does not tolerate repeated needle puncture and the use of a ventriculostomy reservoir is recommended.

Am J Trop Med Hyg, 1978 Jan, 27(1 Pt 1), 113 - 20
Trachoma in a rural South African community; Ballard RC et al.; The prevalence of trachoma was studied in a representative sample of family units from a rural community . Evidence of current or previous infection was found in 82% of the total population, but there was a relatively low prevalence of intense upper tarsal disease . Most children acquire the disease within the first 3 yr of life, these primary infections having a tendency towards spontaneous cure without complications . The prevalence of active disease and potentially blinding sequelae is higher in elderly females than in males of the same age . Clinical and microbiological evidence suggests that trachoma is transmitted primarily within households in this community, the main source of infection appearing to be children of pre-school age . Chlamydiae were isolated from the eyes of children with intense upper tarsal disease, but not from elderly persons with similar clinical signs.

Appl Environ Microbiol, 1978 Jan, 35(1), 89 - 93
Usefulness of the stomacher in a microbiological regulatory laboratory; Andrews WH et al.; The relative efficiency of the Waring blender, the Stomacher 400, and the Stomacher 3500 for preparing food samples for microbiological analysis was studied . Comparative aerobic plate count (APC) values were determined on 671 samples, representing 30 categories of foods . Of the 26 categories of nonfatty foods, the blender gave significantly higher geometric mean APC values than those given by the Stomacher 400 and the Stomacher 3500 in 65 and 69 percent of the categories, respectively . In a comparison of the two Stomacher models, the Stomacher 400 gave significantly higher geometric mean APC values than these given by the Stomacher 3500 in 73 percent of the food categories . Addition of Tween 80 to four categories of fatty foods at concentrations of 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 percent did not raise the APC values given by either model of stomacher to the levels given by the Waring blender . Overall, the efficiency of both models of Stomacher, relative to the blender and to each other, was specific and depended upon the particular food being analyzed.

IARC Sci Publ, 1978, (19), 289 - 96
Possible breakdown of volatile N-nitrosamines by enzymatic and/or microbiological agents in Swiss raw sausage; Hauser E et al.; The degradation trends of 4 added nitrosamines (NDMA, NDEA, NPIP and NPYR) in Italian type salami have been investigated . All of the added NA's were partly degraded during the ripening period of the sausages (29 days); the aliphatic ones were less stable than the heterocyclic.

Arzneimittelforschung, 1978, 28(7), 1037 - 47
{Methods of determination and theoretical principles of the serum protein binding of drugs (author's transl)}; Scholtan W; A survey is given of the methods applied in the determination of protein binding (electrophoresis, ultrafiltration, gel-filtration, ultracentrifugation, dialysis and microbiological plate test) . Basing on our own investigations as well as on papers by other authors the possibilities of errors and limitations of the methods are discussed . The protein binding is reversible and can be explained by the law of mass action . By the representation of the test results according to Scatchard plot it is possible to ascertain the number of the binding groups of the albumin molecule and the equilibrium constant of the reaction . Based on these results the affinity (free reaction, energy) of the protein binding can be calculated . The protein binding can be described especially in therapeutical concentration rather well by the Freundlich isothermal curve . The binding powers which cause the protein binding are discussed . The examination of various substance groups, such as sulphonamides, antibiotics and steroid hormones has shown that the hydrophobic binding plays the main role in the binding of drugs to albumin . As an example of an ionogenic binding the binding or aminoglycosides to alubmin is discussed.

Pharmacol Ther Dent, 1978, 3(2-4), 95 - 100
Sugar substitutes in relation to the incidence of clinical and experimental caries; Scheinin A; Examination of several human studies shows the relationship between sugar intake and dental caries to be complex and partly independent of dosage . Under certain conditions frequent consumption, even in combination with surprisingly low dosage, may lead to high caries incidence . The potential use of sugar substitutes may be based on the concept of replacing sucrose particularly in foodstuffs proven to be highly cariogenic . So far, the evaluation of the cariogenicity of specific sugar substitutes has usually been carried out in comparison to sucrose . Glucose and fructose have thus been found somewhat less cariogenic than sucrose . Some polyols, however, may be considered virtually or completely noncariogenic in man . The low caries incidence observed in the clinical trials and most of the experimental studies have to be viewed as a natural consequence of the microbiological and biochemical behavior of these substances . As an entity, perorally administered polyols should be considered to stimulate a number of existing defense mechanisms to caries.

Acta Neurol Scand Suppl, 1978, 67, 123 - 37
Diagnostic problems in extrapyramidal disorders; Presthus J; The diagnostic problems of extrapyramidal disorders (ED) are reviewed . Many of the wide range of ED occur rarely, and clinical experience is difficult to obtain . Despite great advances in pathophysiology and pathological anatomy the diagnosis of ED is still mainly a clinical diagnosis, and the diagnostic problems are discussed principally in relation to the involuntary movements and partly with regard to muscle tone . Except in a few diseases, biochemical and microbiological analyses, EEG, EMG and X-ray examinations offer little contribution to the solution of diagnostic problems in these disorders.

Poumon Coeur, 1978, 34(2), 153 - 6
{One case of severe tracheobronchopathy with immune depression : herpetic disease?}; Larzul JJ et al.; The authors report a case of severe obliterating laryngo-tracheo-bronchitis without any evident etiology in a young patient with depressed immunity . A herpetic virus was isolated by distal bronchial brushing and by larynx biopsy . The level of specific antibodies rose significantly . These facts together with the clinical history and unsuccessful microbiological searches, suggest the herpetic nature of this affection, albeit exceptional . At this opportunity, a review of the literature is presented showing the imprecision of diagnostic criteria in this field of pathology.

Zahn Mund Kieferheilkd Zentralbl, 1978, 66(7), 699 - 704
{Cervico-facial actinomycosis--Frequency and change in a period of 29 years (author's transl)}; Seyfert H; The clinical histories of 133 patients with cervicofacial actinomycosis, treated stationary in the period of 1948--1976, are interpreted in regard to patients age, treatment period and microbiological of histological proof . The opinions in literature about the frequency and a change of actinomycosis in the antibiotic era are discussed.

Z Allg Mikrobiol, 1978, 18(9), 647 - 64
{Search for nucleic acid influencing, as well as membrane active, potential cancerostatic fungal metabolites using microbiological and cytological screening methods}; Dornberger K et al.; A prescreening program including microbiological and cytological assays was employed in search of potential cancerostatic antibiotics in crude extracts of mushrooms . The microbiological tests based on agar diffusion techniques consist of prophage induction test and BIP-test . All active compounds selected by these microbiological models are potential inhibitors of nucleic acid metabolism . Cytological assays on leukemia L 1210 cells have been carried out by microscopic examination and by evaluation using an electronic particle counter . Activity was expressed as decrease of the number of single cells caused by agglutination or lysis of cells, changes in cell surface area, dye exclusion, and increase of cell volume . A wide variety of mushrooms was demonstrated to exhibit interesting activities in some of these screening systems . The influence of primary metabolic products of mushrooms on microbiological models was studied additionally . In vivo assays have not yet been accomplished.

Acta Derm Venereol, 1978, 58(4), 343 - 8
Development of gastric dysfunction in dermatitis herpetiformis; Stockbrugger R et al.; In order to study the development of atrophic gastritis, gastric secretory function was examined by a standard pentagastrin test 24 to 78 months after a previous examination (Ex I) . The study included 12 patients with dermatitis herpetiformis (DH), 6 patients with functional signs of atrophic gastritis previously, and 8 healthy controls . The surrent examination (Ex II) also included microbiological culture of gastric juice and estimation of gastrin(s), parietal cell and thyroidal antibodies . Most of the controls had increased their maximum acidity and maximum acid output (MAO) between the examinations . This may indicate an altered potency of pentagastrin in recent years . Conversely, 5 of the 6 patients with atrophic gastritis showed a further reduction of maximum acidity and MAO, indicating progressive parietal cell atrophy . In the DH-group, two tendencies were observed: 6/12 patients had an increased MAO at Ex II . They had had lower mean age and higher mean MAO at Ex I, as compared with the remaining 6 patients who had a decreased MAO at Ex II . The latter group more often had parietal cell antibodies.

Prikl Biokhim Mikrobiol, 1978 Jan-Feb, 14(1), 44 - 9
{Microbiological transformation of carbohydrates . Glucose isomerization into fructose by washed cells of Streptomyces sp . strain 29}; Okunev ON et al.; Glucose-fructose transformation by washed and packed cells of Streptomyces sp . 29 was studied . The cells grown on the nutrient medium containing xylose and Co and Mg salts were capable to perform glucose-fructose isomerization . The cellular activity depended in a great degree on the temperature, pH and initial glucose concentration; to a lesser extent on Co and Mg ions present in the incubation mixture, and did not depend on the age of the culture (within 8-69 hours) . The activity reached its maximum at 70-80 degrees C, pH 7.0 and a low concentration of glucose (10(-3) M) . Under these conditions the yield of fructose was 50% from the initial glucose concentration (or 100% from the theoretical value) . Washed cells of Streptomyces sp . 29 packed into a thermally controlled column continuously transformed glucose to fructose during 24 days with a yield of 30-44%.

Thorax, 1977 Dec, 32(6), 740 - 2
A re-evaluation of antibiotic sterilisation of heart valve allografts; Wain WH et al.; Six different mixtures of antibiotics used for treating heart valve allografts at the National Heart Hospital have been compared and the formulation of the medium in current use is described . The abilities of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, and of fungi with low sensitivities to antifungal agents, to survive treatment are also described . These abilities emphasise the need for routine microbiological screening of every valve.

Prakt Anaesth, 1977 Dec, 12(6), 478 - 92
{Hygienic problems in intensive care units (author's transl)}; Ruden H et al.; Microbiological tests have established that intensive care units act as a reservoir from which hospital infections spread . The mode of their spread is reviewed . The increased incidence of nosocomial infections to intensive care wards is attributable partly to deficient antisepsis and asepsis and partly to inadequate planning of the building and organization of these wards . Plans for two intensive care wards are put forward which would reduce the risk of contact, smear and air-borne infections . In the planning of these units greater attention than has so far been the case should be paid to preventing the spread of pathogenic micro-organisms.

Infect Immun, 1977 Dec, 18(3), 806 - 15
Epidemic caprine keratoconjunctivitis: recovery of Mycoplasma conjunctivae and its possible role in pathogenesis; Baas EJ et al.; Clinical, microbiological, serological, histological, and therapeutic aspects of two separate outbreaks of caprine keratoconjunctivitis are described . The disease was characterized by a high rate of contagion, rapid onset, intense lacrimation, conjunctival hyperemia, and corneal opacity with neovascularization . In addition, many of the animals developed respiratory illness during the second epidemic . The only organism consistentlyisolated was Mycoplasma conjunctivae . A total of 23 strains were isolated from 18 inflamed conjunctivae, one normal conjunctiva, and the nasal secretions of four goats with concomitant respiratory illness . The convalescent sera of goats in the first outbreak had neutralizing antibody titers to M . conjunctivae that ranged from 1:32 to 1:256 . In the milder second outbreak the antibody titers ranged from 1:4 to 1:32 in animals with only ocular disease and from 1:4 to 1:64 in animals with only respiratory disease . Whereas little change was noted in antibody titers of goats with only localized eye disease, 43% of the goats with respiratory disease showed significant fourfold rises . The histological picture was consistent with acute corneal infection . Animals requiring antibiotic treatment appeared to respond favorably to a combination of oxytetracycline and polymyxin B, but not to penicillin . These findings suggest that M . conjunctivae is one cause of epidemic caprine keratoconjunctivitis.

Clin Chem, 1977 Dec, 23(12), 2275 - 8
Serum gentamicin assay by high-performance liquid chromatography; Maitra SK et al.; We describe a high-performance liquid chromatographic method for the quantitative determination of gentamicin in serum . The antibiotic was separated from serum by passage through a silicic acid column, derivatized with o-phthalaldehyde, and eluted with ethanol . The derivatized gentamicin was then separated into all three of its major components by reversed-phase chromatography and quantified by fluorometry . Concentrations in serum as low as 0.5 mg of gentamicin per liter could be accurately determined . A standard curve showed a linear response for serum containing gentamicin at concentrations ranging from 0 to 20 mg/liter . Tobramycin, amikacin, ampicillin, penicillin G, methicillin, carbenicillin, chloramphenicol, clindamycin, and cephalothin did not interfere with the gentamicin assay . Comparison with an accepted microbiological assay yielded a correlation coefficient of 0.99 . This chemical assay is rapid (less than 30 min), sensitive, accurate, specific, and appears to be applicable to other aminoglycosides.

Zh Mikrobiol Epidemiol Immunobiol, 1977 Dec, (12), 77 - 83
{Principles for optimizing and guaging several processes in the technology of vaccine production . II . Modeling processes of thermal inactivation of microorganisms}; Matveev VE et al.; The paper treats of some problems pertinent to modelling of thermal inactivation of the microbes serving as a theoretical foundation for the achievement of guaranteed sterility of the equipment, communications and fluids . The principal attention is devoted to the problems of quantitative assessment of the efficacy of the mentioned processes . The advantages and the drawbacks of some deterministic and probability models which found application in microbiological laboratories are assessed . The expediency of orientation on a model proposing the use of characteristics of thermal resistance of the microorganisms and considering the heterogeneity of the actual populations by the thermoresistance index was demonstrated.

P N G Med J, 1977 Dec, 20(4), 167 - 74
Sago haemolysis: clinical features and microbiological studies; Donovan K et al.; Severe, acute and sometimes fatal intravascular haemolysis has occurred on several occasions in Papua New Guinea families after the ingestion of apparently 'stale' sago . Earlier cases had been recorded only from the Maprik area; however, we now report the occurrence of two similar outbreaks, involving a total of 14 persons, in the Western Province . Several bacteria and fungi were isolated and identified in a sample of suspect sago from one of the outbreaks . None of these, however, to our knowledge, has ever been incriminated as a cause of haemolysis, and the aetiological agent(s) and mechanism of haemolysis thus remain to be elucidated . No mycotoxins were detected in one sample available for analysis . It is suggested that the eating of sago stored for a long time be discouraged; and further that, if a meal of sago tastes abnormal, additional mouthfuls should not be eaten and the remaining portion should be sent for analysis or discarded.

J Clin Microbiol, 1977 Dec, 6(6), 574 - 7
Clinical evaluation of commercial conjugates for direct immunofluorescence of herpes simplex virus; Gittzus JG et al.; Commercially prepared antibody conjugates that are now available allow extensive application of direct immunofluorescence for diagnosing herpetic infections . Five of these conjugates--Microbiological Associates bivalent herpes antiserum (MBA-bivalent), MBA anti-herpes types 1 (MBA-1) and 2 (MBA-2), and Flow Laboratories anti-herpes types 1 (Flow-1) and 2 (Flow-2)--were compared for antibody titer, diagnostic accuracy, and nonspecific background staining on known infected tissue . Four of these were tested simultaneously on 75 clinical specimens . No attempt was made to differentiate between herpes simplex virus type 1 or type 2 infections . All antisera were comparable in titer and exhibited fluorescence with both herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 antigens . The most significant difference was excessive nonspecific staining consistently seen with the MBA-2 conjugate . Overall, Flow-2 and MBA-bivalent antisera were preferable.

Zentralbl Bakteriol {Orig B}, 1977 Dec, 165(5-6), 464 - 70
{Microbial growth on an expansion joint of a reservoir for drinkingwater (author's transl)}; Schoenen D et al.; In a clear water reservoir built in ready construction after a working-period of five months quite a lot of slime could be found on the expansion joint filled with tightening compound on the base of Thiokol . The covering slime could be removed easily with a rubber-screen . The microbiological analysis showed an extremely high number of colonies and additional the slime was secondarily settled with Protozoa . An influence on the water in the reservoir could not be found out under working conditions.

J Assoc Off Anal Chem, 1977 Nov, 60(6), 1261 - 5
Assuring reliable performance of antibiotic assay media; Freeman KA et al.; The Microbiological Assay Branch of the National Center for Antibiotics Analysis assays over 100,000 samples of antibiotic products annually, using more than 1000 Ib dehydrated media . The media must be consistently dependable to produce accurate, reliable test results . To assure that the supply of media will meet the established requirements, each lot before purchase is subjected to a series of trials designed to examine growth support, sensitivity, and behavioral and physical factors . Actual antibiotic assays are conducted with the test medium, and performance is rated against a control medium . Controls on the system reduce the variables to allow appraisal of the medium itself.

Clin Orthop, 1977 Nov-Dec, (129), 205 - 8
Comparison of horizontal and vertical unidirectional (laminar) air-flow systems in orthopedic surgery; Ritter MA et al.; The microbiological evaluation of a horizontal walled unit, a horizontal wall-less unit and a vertical wall-less unidirectional airflow unit revealed a statistical reduction in the wound and back table air settle plate counts for the 2 horizontal systems as compared to the vertical system.

J Clin Pathol, 1977 Nov, 30(11), 1033 - 6
Endocarditis due to Cardiobacterium hominis; Jobanputra RS et al.; A case of bacterial endocarditis was caused by Cardiobacterium hominis in a 41-year-old man with mitral and aortic incompetence due to a previous episode of rheumatic fever . The main distinguishing characteristics of C . hominis are described, and the incidence of endocarditis is reviewed . After six weeks of treatment with effective bactericidal chemotherapy a microbiological cure was achieved and the patient successfully underwent mitral valve replacement and aortic valve plication.

Acta Paediatr Scand, 1977 Nov, 66(6), 699 - 703
Lactose and protein absorption from breast milk and cow's milk preparations and its influence on the intestinal flora . Investigations on two infants with an artificial anus; Heine W et al.; Lactose and protein absorption from breast milk and a cow's milk preparation enriched up to 7% of lactose were studied in two infants with an artificial anus applied in the ascending colon region . The concentrations of protein, lactose, glucose and galactose were measured in the fistula stools . In addition, the stools were analysed microbiologically . There were relatively high concentrations of lactose and its decomposition products and low concentrations of protein and aminonitrogen in the fistula stools when breast milk was fed . When the cow's milk formula was applied, only traces of lactose but high amounts of protein were measured . The microbiological findings are in agreement with the hypothesis that the bacterial flora of the large intestine is influenced by the lactose and protein concentrations in the intestinal content which reach the large intestine.

Br J Nutr, 1977 Nov, 38(3), 507 - 11
The B-vitamin content of baboon (Papio cynocephalus) milk; Buss DH et al.; 1 . The B-vitamins in milk from baboons (Papio cynocephalus) at various stages of lactation were measured microbiologically . 2 . Mature milk contained, on average (microgram/ml): thiamin 0.18 riboflavin 0.74, nicotinic acid 3.2, folate 0.03, vitamin B6 0.70 vitamin B12 0.002, pantothenic acid 2.63, biotin 0.0065 . 3 . Colostrum contained much less vitamin B6 and pantothenic acid than mature milk; otherwise, there were only slight changes in composition as lactation progressed . Neither these changes, nor the absolute values, resembled those for human or cow's milk . 4 . The average daily secretion of B-vitamins in milk represented less than 10% of the mother's dietary intake; that of folate was less than 0.5% of the mother's dietary intake . 5 . Baboon milk was calculated to provide infants with approximately the following quantities of B-vitamins (/d): thiamin 0.06 mg, riboflavin 0.25 mg, nicotinic acid 1.1 mg, folate 10 microgram, vitamin B6 0.25 mg, vitamin B12 0.7 microgram, pantothenic acid 0.9 mg, biotin 2.2 microgram.

J Clin Microbiol, 1977 Nov, 6(5), 518 - 27
Misinformation from sputum cultures without microscopic examination; Heineman HS et al.; Only 13 of 38 hospital laboratories surveyed include a Gram stain routinely in microbiological sputum examination . In a prospective three-hospital study, 60% of over 1,200 "sputum" specimens consisted predominantly of saliva, as judged by cell composition . Compared with the results of cultures in which microorganisms presumptively identified on sputum smears were specifically sought ("directed cultures"), cultures of the same specimens processed in the routine manner missed pneumococci 61%, haemophili 23%, and yeasts 44% of the time . The findings were similar in all three hospitals despite differences in administration, staffing, primary culture media, and workload . Unless microscopic examination is routinely included, half of all microbiological information rendered on sputum specimens is meaningless and subject to dangerous misapplication . Furthermore, culture must be guided by microscopic findings, or respiratory pathogens will frequently be missed . Finally, when routine culture and smear disagree, the culture cannot be assumed to be correct . Microscopic examination should be mandatory in sputum microbiology, both for specimen evaluation and as a guide to what to look for in culture.

J Clin Periodontol, 1977 Nov, 4(4), 231 - 9
The plaque-inhibiting effect of copper amalgam; Hyypra T et al.; In order to assess whether copper amalgam accumulates less bacterial plaque than silver amalgam, 14 copper amalgam cervical restorations were placed in 10 patients . Control silver amalgam fillings were placed in homologous teeth of the same jaw . To evaluate the amount of plaque, the stained areas on the amalgams were analyzed from photographs with a planimetric method . Further quantitative analyses of plaque growth on copper amalgam were carried out with microbiological methods, for which a new group of 10 patients was selected . Cervical cavities were prepared on both sides of the jaw . Specimens of copper amalgam and silver amalgam restorations were placed on opposite sides . The plaque was collected after 2 and 3 days and cultivated under aerobic and anaerobic conditions on blood agar plates and on Mitis Salivarius Agar . The results of both methods show a very significant inhibition of plaque growth on copper amalgam . These results were confirmed by scanning electron micrographs which showed that copper amalgam only had plaque on small areas . The plaque appeared in band formations arranged irregularly on the surface . Higher magnifications revealed a filamentous structure with predominating coccoid organisms . Scanning electron micrographs also showed that pellicle formation, which is considered to be necessary for bacterial adherence to the surface, took place on both amalgams.

Zh Mikrobiol Epidemiol Immunobiol, 1977 Oct, (10), 33 - 7
{Principles for optimizing and guaging several processes in the technology of vaccine production . I . Several problems in guaging and optimizing thermal sterilization of fluids}; Matveev VE et al.; Thermal sterilization of fluids--one of the widespread operations in microbiological laboratories and in vaccine production--solves two tasks: provides sterility and maximal preservation of biological value of the sterilized fluid . A possibility and expediency of using some indices for the quantitative assessment of the efficacy of the sterilization regimens, including measurement of the sterilization processes is considered in this work . A possible way of the regimen optimization on the basis of known values of the activation energies of the processes of decomposition of thermolabile components and inactivation of foreign microbial flora is assessed.

Berl Munch Tierarztl Wochenschr, 1977 Oct 1, 90(19), 379 - 82
{Microbiological and epidemiological problems in the feeding of animal excrements}; Bisping W; Tests were made to determine the minimal hygiene demands necessary when animal excrement is used as fodder . Research to date give only limited information, as it has been undertaken almost entirely on slamonella . The minimal demands must include guaranteed destruction of vegetative forms of disease exciters and viruses . However, the risk of infection must remain where spores can form and endanger health.

Lepr India, 1977 Oct, 49(4), 526 - 39
The chemotherapy of leprosy from a microbiological standpoint; Pattyn SR; The increased knowledge concerning microbiology and chemotherapy of leprosy is exposed . Great stress is put on the knowledge of chemotherapy of tuberculosis that has accumulated during the last two decades and the guidelines that are equally valid for the chemotherapy of leprosy . The problems of the chemotherapy of the different forms of the disease are exposed and future lines of research indicated.

Z Gesamte Inn Med, 1977 Sep 15, 32(18), suppl 278 - 82
{Automated microbiological information system}; Assmus P et al.; The microbiological information system ISM gives the possibility to collect data of patients and findings on punch strips, to transmit the findings to the senders and to store and evaluate the data according to medical points of view and for the purpose of performance statistics . The essential elements of the system are demonstrated and the basic principles of the data processing apparatus type R300 are described . Here the author particularly enters the calculator-internal testing processes for elimination of codation and punching errors . Finally the further development of the information system provided is briefly sketched . The advantages of the use of electronic data processing result from 1 . the simplificstion and unification of the information relations, 2 . the reduction of writing work, 3 . the centralised transmission of findings, 4 . the increased security of data and 5 . the possibility of mathematico-statistical evaluations of the stored data material . According to its basic conception the information system ISM may be used universally and it is possible to enlarge it.

Dtsch Med Wochenschr, 1977 Sep 2, 102(35), 1251 - 5
{Regional suppurative lymphadenitis after BCG vaccination (author's transl)}; Brehmer W et al.; In the first half of 1975 there occurred in the Federal Republic of Germany an unusual rise in the incidence of suppurative inguinal lymphadenitis after BCG vaccination of newborns, in immediate time relation with change of the vaccine by its manufacturers, Behringwerke . The attenuated daughter strain Goteborg had been replaced by the effective but also rather aggressive strain Copenhagen 1331 . The complication rate was 1.5% in West Berlin . Clinical course, operative technique as well as microbiological and histomorphological features of these cases were analyzed in a joint study . Since it is likely that, after re-admission of the Copenhagen vaccine, such complications may again occur despite reduced micro-organism count, vaccination of newborns should in future be restricted to those at risk.

Z Hautkr, 1977 Sep 1, 52(17), 885 - 9
{Erysipelas at the dermatological clinic in Mannheim 1960-1975}; Bertsch O et al.; From 1960-1975 528 patients suffering from erysipelas were treated at the department of dermatology in Mannheim . The relative as well as the absolute incidence of erysipelas increased markedly during this period . There was also a considerable rise in the number of more seriously diseased, therapy-resistent cases . Microbiological studies must be conducted to find an explication for these phenomena.

Mikrobiologiia, 1977 Sep-Oct, 46(5), 857 - 66
{Microbiological leaching of zinc and lead ores of the Tekeli deposit}; Ilialetdinov AN et al.; In certain regions of the West Tekeli lead-zinc ore deposti, the number of Thiobacillus ferrooxidans cells reaches 10(6) per 1 ml of ore water . Spontaneous bacterial leaching of sulphide ore is confirmed by an increase in the concentration of ferric iron and zinc in ore water . As a result of this leaching, up to 40 per cent of zinc and 60 per cent of lead have been leached from lead-zinc ore within 271-286 days . Bacterial leaching of lead intermediate products has shown that the maximum rate of galenite oxidation is reached at 50--65 degrees C and the content of Fe3+ in a solvent being above 20 g per litre . Microbiological leaching can be used for selective extraction of zinc and lead . Zinc dissolves directly in the leaching bacterial solution while lead remains in the precipitate and is then dissolved under the action of concentrated NaCl solutions.

Br J Nutr, 1977 Sep, 38(2), 245 - 53
An improved method for the microbiological assay of available amino acids in proteins using Tetrahymena pyriformis; Shepherd ND et al.; 1 . A standard microbiological procedure for the assay of available amino acids in proteins using Tetrahymena pyriformis has been modified by evaluating cell growth from the tetrahymanol content of the cultures by gas-liquid chromatography (GLC) . 2 . This modification improves the precision of the method compared with cell-counting techniques and provided automatic injection facilities are available for the GLC, the procedure is not excessively time-consuming . 3 . It has been confirmed that enzymic predigestion is essential for all except the most soluble proteins and a satisfactory method using pronase has been incorporated into the microbiological procedure . 4 . After enzymic digestion of the sample, growth of Tetrahymena with many proteins can be measured turbidimetrically, but particulate matter still persists with a proportion of samples, particularly those of plant origin, and the GLC method is therefore more widely applicable . It is also more precise . 5 . Good agreement has been obtained between a chick bioassay and the modified Tetrahymena assay for available lysine in eight different proteins, including heat-damaged fish meals . 6 . The modified procedure appeared to give good results for available tryptophan and methionine . 7 . When cystine was omitted from the standard culture medium it was possible to test for available methionine plus cystine, but further work is required to assess the reliability of this particular assay.

Zh Mikrobiol Epidemiol Immunobiol, 1977 Sep, (9), 3 - 12
{Current problems of medical microbiology: Achievements, tasks and perspectives}; Timakov VD et al.; Two important problems of current medical microbiology are discussed in this paper: 1) a change of etiological structure of infectious morbidity-elevation of the incidence of infections caused by conditioned pathogenic causative agents, and 2) postvaccinal complications . In the light of these problems the tasks of microbiological investigations for the immediate future are discussed . Tasks and prospects of study of the molecular structure of the pathogenicity factors of importance for the creation of chemical vaccines and genetic investigations which would provide construction of strains and preparations useful in practice are formulated.

J Dairy Sci, 1977 Sep, 60(9), 1416 - 21
Influence of colostrum on transepithelial movement of Escherichia coli 055; Corley LD et al.; The effect of colostrum on transepithelial migration of live Escherichia coli 055:B5:H7 in the neonatal calf intestine was determined by microbiological and microscopic investigations . Colostrum-deprived calves (2 to 6 h old) were given E . coli suspended in saline, E . coli suspended in colostrum, or E . coli in saline 1 h after colostrum . Twenty-four hours after exposure, tissues were collected for examination . Escherichia coli were numerous in mesenteric lymph nodes of calves given this organism in saline . Fewer were recovered from nodes of calves that received the bacteria in colostrum . Escherichia coli were not recovered from mesenteric lymph nodes of calves given colostrum before dosage with the organism . Electron microscopic studies of small intestines from calves that received E . coli in saline revealed bacterial attachment sites surrounded by exfoliation of microvilli . Bacteria appeared to enter epithelial cells by invagination of apical plasma membrane or dilation of apical tubules . Intracellular E . coli were enclosed in a surrounding membrane . The organisms were not observed adhering to or penetrating intestinal epithelium of calves that received E . coli in colostrum or 1 h after colostrum.

J Assoc Off Anal Chem, 1977 Sep, 60(5), 1119 - 24
Microbiological plate and turbidimetric assays of chlortetracycline in feeds: collaborative study; Ragheb HS; The manual and automated turbidimetric assays and a modified official plate assay for chlortetracycline (CTC-HCl) in feed were collaboratively studied . Three feed samples (swine feed, 100 g CTC-HCl/ton; premix I, 20 g each of CTC-HCl and sulfamethazine/lb, and 10 g penicillin/lb; and premix II, 50 g CTC-HCl/lb) were analyzed at 2 dilutions . Twelve laboratories conducted the plate assay; 8 laboratories the manual turbidimetric method; and 7 laboratories, the Autoturb analysis . Within a method, there was no significant difference between dilutions . Between methods, there was a significant difference between the manual turbidimetric plate assays only for swine feed . However, the same sample dilutions or the average values of the 2 dilutions for both methods showed no statistical difference . Among the collaborators, the slope of CTC-HCl standard curve varied between about 2.0 and 3.0 for the plate method . The turbidimetric assay has been adopted as official first action for feeds containing larger than or equal to 20 g CTC-HCl/lb.

Dtsch Zahnarztl Z, 1977 Sep, 32(9), 741 - 3
{Cariogenic properties of various snacks in animal experiments}; Karle EJ et al.; In a conventional animal experiment with rats, the cariogenic properties of different snacks were studied and compared . Bananas caused the highest caries incidence, apples the lowest . In between ranged the caries values of two other tested sweets, wafers and gum drops . The differences in caries incidence were due to specific chemo-physical properties (stickiness, fat content) . In addition to the evaluation of caries incidence, microbiological plaque examinations and sugar analyses of the tested substances were carried out.

J Oral Surg, 1977 Sep, 35(9), 721 - 5
Coccidioides immitis osteomyelitis of the mandible in an infant; Sieber OF Jr et al.; Coccidioidomycotic osteomyelitis developed at the angle of the right side of the mandible in a 5-month-old Papago infant . The disease was successfully treated with a combination of amphotericin B, surgery, and transfer factor with complete immunological, microbiological, and radiological cure . At 4 years of age, the only residual effect is prominence of the right hemimandible with asymmetry of the jaw.

Br Med J, 1977 Aug 27, 2(6086), 541 - 4
A case of Ebola virus infection; Emond RT et al.; In November 1976 an investigator at the Microbiological Research Establishment accidentally inoculated himself while processing material from patients in Africa who had been suffering from a haemorrhagic fever of unknown cause . He developed an illness closely resembling Marburg disease, and a virus was isolated from his blood that resembled Marburg virus but was distinct serologically . The course of the illness was mild and may have been modified by treatment with human interferon and convalescent serum . Convalescence was protracted; there was evidence of bone-marrow depression and virus was excreted in low titre for some weeks . Recovery was complete . Infection was contained by barrier-nursing techniques using a negative-pressure plastic isolator and infection did not spread to attendant staff or to the community.

J Chromatogr, 1977 Aug 11, 138(2), 355 - 72
System for the identification of novel prostaglandins; Raaijmakers JG; A system for structural analysis based on thin-layer and gas chromatographic and mass spectrometric data is presented . It permits the rapid and unequivocal identification of structurally closely related prostaglandins and their products containing microbiologically introduced hydroxyl groups at positions C-16, -17, -18, -19, and -20 . Novel criteria are described by which distinctions can be made between stereoisomers.

J Environ Health, 1977 Sep-Oct, 40(2), 85 - 8
Environmental conditions of abortion clinics; Walker B Jr et al.; PIP: 9 out of 15 known free standing abortion clinics in the Washington, D.c . metro area were surveyed by a multidisciplinary team to determine whether prescribed health and safety standards for health care facilities are being adhered to . The minimum space requirements of 80 sq ft for medical examination and/or treatment rooms were not met by 4 clinics and inadequate lighting was found in 2 clinics . Although all facilities exhibited evidence of an effective housekeeping program, 8 clinics did not have effective preventive maintenance program for mechanical equipment and medical devices . 1 clinic had inadequate ventilation system and 6 had inadequate handwashing facilities . All had effective solid waste management systems . 6 clinics regularly conduct microbiological monitoring programs (eg, swabbing walls, doorknobs and heating units; sterilization of surgical instruments) but 3 lacked vigilant supervision of sterilizing equipment and procedures . 2 clinics did not have properly grounded or insulated electrical equipment for minimizing electrical shock . Insect and rodent control in all clinics was good . Overall, the housekeeping programs were considered to be constant, thorough, well-conceived and well executed . Implications of the findings were discussed .

Anaesthesist, 1977 Aug, 26(8), 476 - 84
{Quantitative analysis of particulate matter in infusion solutions, administration sets and additives (author's transl)}; Ahnefeld FW et al.; There have been recevitly many comments on clinical and experimental reports which have demonstrated the safety problems associated with parenteral drugs contaminated with particles . Some countries have developed recommendations with a standard for counting of particles and their limits . Based on these limits, we have made a critical quantitative analysis of particulate matter in the most common commercially produced solutions, of particles added during manipulations in clinics and addition of drugs . Most authorities agree that particulate contamination should be kept to a minimum, above all in an intensive-care-unit where patients receive large quantities of solutions . As the risk to the patient is unacceptably high, many authors ask for filters to prevent the injection of particles in the bloodstream and their pathological consequences . A filter pore-size of 5 to 10 micron should be able to reduce this problem in a sufficient manner, without decreasing the infusion flow; whereas membrane-filters (0.22 micron), with their own problems, could also eliminate bacteria together with their microbiological hazards . Another source of particulate matter is represented by the injection of two or more drugs, administered at the same time, which may lead to chemical incompatibilities . This problem is not yet defined very well . To complete our quantitative analysis, we decided to start a prospective clinical study.

Can J Biochem, 1977 Aug, 55(8), 865 - 8
Folic acid compounds in romaine lettuce; Batra KK et al.; The composition of folate coenzymes in romaine lettuce was studied . Lettuce extract was purified on QAE-Sephadex A-25 and folate compounds were separated into a monoglutamate fraction and a polyglutamate fraction by chromatography on Sephadex G-15 . Both the mono- and poly-glutamate fractions were resolved on DEAE-cellulose . Positive identification of DEAE peaks was made by further cochromatography with high specific activity radioactive marker folate compounds and with differential microbiological assay . The distribution of folate compounds in lettuce is as follows: 32% 5-CH3-H4PteGlu; 1% 5-CHO-H4PteGlu; 3% 5-CHO-H4PteGlu4; 9% 5-CH3-H4PteGlu4; 13% 5-CHO-H4PteGlu5; and 31% 5-CH3-H4PteGlu5.

Arch Otorhinolaryngol, 1977 Jul 29, 217(2), 147 - 66
{Pharmacokinetical, histological, and histochemical investigation on the ototoxicity of gentamicin, tobramycin, and amikacin (author's transl)}; Federspil P et al.; The pharmacokinetics of gentamicin, tobramycin, and amikacin in the inner ear fluids and serum of the guinea pig were studied . The concentrations of these antibiotics were determined by a microbiological method and could be confirmed by the use of 14C-labeled gentamicin . Retention was clearly demonstrated in perilymph and endolymph, whereas there was no retention in the cerebrospinal fluid and the compartments of the eye . A linear relation between concentrations in the perilymph and dosage of gentamicin was ascertained . There was no difference between the concentration of drug in endolymph and that in perilymph . The concentrations of these antibiotics in the perilymph were symmetrical and many times higher than those in the brain . Long-term treatment did not influence the pharmacokinetics of the three antibiotics in the inner ear . However, increased levels of drug in the inner ears in animals with uremia and in some animals with otitis media explained the increased ototoxicity that was observed in histological investigations of these two conditions . Cisternal puncture and diuretics did not change the concentrations of aminoglycoside antibiotics in the inner ear . In large experimental series the hair cell degeneration pattern of the new aminoglycoside antibiotics was determined by the surface preparation technique as well as the influence of the different factors upon this pattern . A prophylactic effect on the ototoxicity of the aminoglycoside antibiotics could not be found in the 2,3-dimercaptopropanol, but by dividing the daily dosage administered . Young guinea pigs were generally not very sensitive to gentamicin, in some cases however much more . Late ototoxicity could not be found after administration of gentamicin . The pharmacokinetical and especially the histological investigations allowed an evaluation of the ototoxicity of the new aminoglycoside antibiotics . By histochemical investigations no influence of the new aminoglycoside antibiotics upon the amount of unspecific esterases and alkaline phosphatase in the inner ear could be detected, but an increase of the amount of acid phosphatase in slightly damaged outer hair cells.

Clin Chim Acta, 1977 Jul 15, 78(2), 203 - 7
The simultaneous quantitative determination of cephalothin and cefazolin in serum by high pressure liquid chromatography; Wold JS et al.; Conventional microbiological assay procedures for cephalosporins in serum do not allow the determination of serum concentrations if more than one cephalosporin is present in a single sample . An HPLC procedure has been developed which permits the simultaneous quantitative determination of cefazolin sodium and cephalothin sodium in serum . Reverse phase chromatography using methanol in 0.2 M ammonium acetate as the mobile phase was employed to separate and quantitate the two cephalosporins in a trichloroacetic acid supernatant solution prepared from serum.

Wien Klin Wochenschr, 1977 Jul 15, 89(14), 479 - 81
{Serum methotrexate determination by microbiological assay in patients receiving high-dosage methotrexate (author's transl)}; Krisch K et al.; Microbiological assay according to Burchenal (modified by Mehta) is used for the determination of the serum methotrexate (MTX) level . Fifty cycles of high-dose MTX therapy were monitored in 11 patients with osteogenic sarcoma . The results showed close correlation with the clinical course of the therapy . The serum level of MTX was elevated in patients with symptoms of toxicity.

J Assoc Off Anal Chem, 1977 Jul, 60(4), 957 - 60
Microbiological assay for saponin in alfalfa products; Livingston AL et al.; A bioassay is described for determining medicagenin-type saponin in dried alfalfa, leaf protein concentrates, and alfalfa sprouts . Samples are extracted by refluxing 2 1/2 hr with 50% ethanol, ethanol is evaporated, and aliquots of an aqueous solution are added to potato dextrose agar (PDA) and assayed for saponin by using the fungus Trichoderma viride . The growth of the fungus on PDA is compared with a standard saponin, and saponin levels are calculated by means of a slope ratio analysis.

Antibiotiki, 1977 Jul, 22(7), 598 - 601
{Study of the possibility of stabilizing a levorin microbiological standard}; Bol'shakova LO et al.; The effect of a number of factors, providing increased stability of the levorin microbiological standard was studied . It was shown that air-tight packing and inert gas atmosphere (antibiotic storage in ampoules sealed under nitrogen) significantly increased the antibiotic stability . It was also shown that hydrochinone had the highest positive effect on levorin stability.

Antibiotiki, 1977 Jul, 22(7), 595 - 8
{Quantitative determination of the gentamicin and dimethyl sulfoxide in the "Gentaplast" film-forming aerosol preparation}; Korchagin VB et al.; A method for quantitative determination of gentamicin and dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) in "Gentaplast", a film-forming aerozol preparation was developed . Gentamicin was determined microbiologically after extraction . DMSO was determined by titration with the use of the Redox method . The results of determination of gentamicin and DMSO in "Gentaplast" were statistically treated.

Poult Sci, 1977 Jul, 56(4), 1209 - 15
Prophylactical and therapeutical efficacy of Tiamuline in mycoplasmosis of chickens and turkeys; Stipkovits L et al.; To evaluate efficacy of Tiamuline in mycoplasmosis of chickens and turkeys under controlled field conditions 2 prophylactical and 3 therapeutical trials were conducted . The compound was administered via drinking water for 3 days in comparison to Tylosin tartrate . In both prophylactical and therapeutical tests, Tiamuline showed a superior efficiacy, as measured by clinical symptoms, pathological lesions and microbiological findings . Therefore, Tiamuline can be recommended for treatment of mycoplasmosis in chickens and turkeys in a dosage of 0.025% and in a dosage of 0.0125% for prophylaxis in flocks at risk.

Kosm Biol Aviakosm Med, 1977 Jul-Aug, 11(4), 41 - 6
{Effect of long-term hypokinesia on the course of acute aseptic inflammation}; Vasil'ev PV et al.; White rats were kept under hypokinetic conditions for 15, 28 and 60 days . By physiological, microbiological and morphological methods it was demonstrated that hypokinesia had an adverse effect on the clinical development of aseptic inflammation . This effect included a more marked edema and its delayed resorption, an increased temperature of the inflammatory focus, an increased number of infectious complications, involving necrotic foci and ulcerations, enhanced alteration processes, inhibited formation of the demarcation zone, generalized inflammation, etc . Resistance to phlogogenic stimulation fell down to a minimum during the first two hypokinetic weeks; afterwards it gradually returned to normal but did not recover entirely even after 60 days of hypokinesia . Following 15- and 28-day hypokinetic experiments resistance to phlogogenic agents reached the pretest level within 7 days of the recovery period.

Pathology, 1977 Jul, 9(3), 199 - 205
Quality control in the microbiological serum folate assay; Aird A et al.; Low values obtained in the microbiological assay of serum folate are often due to the presence of antibiotics in the test serum . The assay has been modified to permit consistent recognition of the presence and extent of such contamination . Other assay variables have been investigated and a quality control system devised which rapidly identifies the presence of inconsistencies in any one assay batch . The system further allows for the reporting of some clinically useful results from an imperfect assay batch thus reducing the necessity for reassay of some test sera.

J Antibiot (Tokyo), 1977 Jul, 30(7), 593 - 6
Effects of serum lipid content on the binding of minocycline; Raff MJ et al.; Minocycline was added to normal and hyperlipemic serum samples in concentrations of 1 approximately 10 mcg/ml . These specimens had similar protein contents . Chemically extractable minocycline was quantitated fluorometrically . Hyperlipemic serum (cholesterol 480 mg/100 ml; triglycerides 321 mg/100 ml) yielded an average of 50% less minocycline than did normal serum (cholesterol 170 mg/100 ml; triglycerides 114 mg/100 ml) . When ultrafiltrates of serum containing 6, 12 and 20 mcg/ml minocycline were assayed microbiologically, it was evident that variations in serum triglyceride and cholesterol levels did not alter the ratio of bound to free drug . Minocycline appears to be reversibly associated with, and/or soluble in, triglyceride-cholesterol components of serum.

Ann Sclavo, 1977 Jul-Aug, 19(4), 512 - 23
{Request for sampling and acquisition of biological samples for microbiological investigation (author's transl)}; Riccardino N et al.; On the grounds of published data and of those resulting from an investigation carried out in the Italian hospitals, the writers propose to standardize the requests for microbiological exams and the sampling procedures and the acquisition of the materials to be subjected to bacteriological examination.

Aust Vet J, 1977 Jul, 53(7), 301 - 5
Serological responses in experimental bovine tuberculosis; Lepper AW et al.; Five two-year-old heifers were each inoculated intravenously with 0.02 mg M . bovis strain AN5 . Clinical, haematological and microbiological observations were made during the course of the experiment and antibody levels were measured before and after infection by means of the indirect immunofluorescent antibody (IFA) and bentonite flocculation tests . All cattle developed M . bovis infection varying in severity from peracute tuberculous pneumonia resulting in death within 33 days to chronic progressive generalised tuberculosis . Only cattle developing peracute or acute forms of tuberculosis showed marked haematological changes characterised by leucopenia with lymphopenia . Bacteraemia was detected in the two cattle with peracute tuberculosis 22 days after infection . Anti-mycobacterial antibody was detected after infection in all cattle but fluctuated markedly during the course of the disease . Of a total of 61 serum samples examined from all cattle after inoculation with M . bovis, only 38 were positive to the IFA test and 30 to the bentonite flocculation test . Only 18 were positive to both tests at any one time . IgM was the predominant type of anti-mycobacterial antibody detected by the IFA test and this was found to cross-react with M . avium in almost every sample.

J Periodontol, 1977 Jul, 48(7), 397 - 409
Precocious periodontitis: a clinical entity and a treatment responsibility; Sugarman MM et al.; This report has proposed that the term, periodontosis, be discarded and replaced with the term, precocious periodontitis . The literature review has shown that, although the exact causative agents are unknown, certain microbiological reactions do occur and the condition is a periodontitis . The term, precocious periodontitis, has been suggested because the disease entity differs from chronic periodontitis in some of its characteristic features and etiologic factors . Three important local etiologic factors are: (1) contact and eruption of the first molars, (2) occlusal traumatism, and (3) ineffective oral hygiene . The recent literature concerning possible hereditary characteristics, bacteriological findings, and immunological reactions has been cited . The reports presented showing successful results of therapy were selected to illustrate that this condition can have the same prognosis and response to therapy as other similarly involved cases of periodontitis as a clinical entity with a definitive treatment responsibilities.

Arch Dis Child, 1977 Jul, 52(7), 563 - 8
Evaluation of Vickers-Trexler isolator in children undergoing bone marrow transplantation; Watson JG et al.; Four children, 5 months to 15 years of age, underwent bone marrow transplantation in Vickers-Trexler isolator tents . Two grafts were elective . During 170 days of isolation no clinical infections due to exogenous micro-organisms developed despite severe immunodeficiency . The decontamination regimen and sterile procedures used, as well as the microbiological results, are described . This form of isolation in paediatric practice was found to be highly acceptable to both patients and staff.

Ann Sclavo, 1977 Jul-Aug, 19(4), 643 - 50
{Statistical investigation into the methodology at various centres of the microbiological diagnosis of the cerebro-spinal fluid (author's transl)}; Rigoli E et al.; To survey statistically the bacteriological methods used in the culture of the cerebro-spinal fluid in Italian hospitals, we sent a questionnaire nearly 400 laboratories in various regional, provincial and zonal hospitals . We received 36 replies, which, although not numerous, have furnished the data for present paper.

Experientia, 1977 Jun 15, 33(6), 718 - 20
Microbiological transformation of cannabinoids; Abbott BJ et al.; Microorganisms were screened for their ability to modify 2 synthetic cannabinoid substrates (I and II) . Structure analyses revealed that microorganisms transformed the substrates by (a) primary oxidation of the side chain, beta-oxidation of the side chain, ketone formation on the side chain or cyclohexene ring, (b) secondary hydroxylation on the side chain, (c) aromatization of the cyclohexene ring, and (d) tertiary hydroxylation at the b/c ring juncture.

Biochem J, 1977 Jun 15, 164(3), 715 - 26
Microbiological degradation of bile acids . Metabolites formed from 3-(3a alpha-hexahydro-7a beta-methyl-1,5-dioxoindan-4 alpha-yl) propionic acid by Streptomyces rubescens; Hashimoto S et al.; 1 . The metabolism of 3-(3a alpha-hexahydro-7a beta-methyl-1,5-dioxoindan-4 alpha-yl)propionic acid (III), which is a possible precursor of 2,3,4,6,6a beta, 7,8,9,9a alpha,9b beta-decahydro-6a beta-methyl-1H-cyclopenta{f}quinoline-3,7-dione (II) formed from cholic acid (I) by streptomyces rubescens, was investigated by using the same organism . 2 . This organism effected amide bond formation, reduction of the carbonyl groups, trans alpha beta-desaturation and R-oriented beta-hydroxylation of the propionic acid side chain and skeleton cleavage, and the following metabolites were isolated as these forms or their derivatives: compound (II), 1,2,3,4 a beta,-5,6,6a beta,7,8,9a alpha,9b beta-dodecahydro-6a beta -methylcyclopental{f}{1}benzopyran-3,7-dione (IVa), (1R)-1,2,3,4a beta,5,6,6a beta,7,8,9.9a alpha,9b beta-dodecahydro-1-hydroxy-6a beta-methylcyclopenta{f}{1}benzopyran-3,7-dione (IVb), (E)-3-(3aalpha-hexahydro-5 alpha-hydroxy-7a beta-methyl-l-oxo-indan-4 alpha-yl)prop-2-enoic acid (V), (+)-(5R)-5-methyl-4-oxo-octane-1,8-dioic acid (VI), 3-(4-hydroxy-5-methyl-2-oxo-2H-pyran-6-yl)propionic acid (VII) and 3-(3a alpha-hexahydro-1 beta-hydroxy-7a beta-methyl-5-oxoindan-4 alpha-yl)propionic acid (VIII) . The metabolites (IVb), (V), (VI) and (VII) were new compounds, and their structures were established by chemical synthesis . 3 . The question of whether these metabolites are true degradative intermediates is discussed, and a degradative pathway of compound (III) to the possible precursor of compound (VII), 7-carboxy-4-methyl-3,5-dioxoheptanoyl-CoA (IX), is tentatively proposed . The further degradation of compound (IX) to small fragments is also considered.

Biochem J, 1977 Jun 15, 164(3), 709 - 14
Microbiological degradation of bile acids . The preparation of hexahydroindane derivatives as substrates for studying cholic acid degradation; Hayakawa S et al.; Relatively large amounts of 3-(3aalpha-hexahydro-7abeta-methyl-1,5-dioxoindan-4alpha-yl)propionic acid (IIb), which is believed to be one of the intermediates involved in the degradation of cholic acid (I), were needed to identify is further degradation products . A simple method for the preparation of this compound was then investigated . Arthrobacter simplex could degrade-3-oxoandrost-4-ene-17beta-carboxylic acid (IIIa) to 3-(1beta-carboxy-3aalpha-hexahydro-7abeta-methyl-5-oxoindan-4alpha-yl)propionic acid (IVa) in good yield, the structure of which was established by partial synthesis . It was therefore expected that, if a similar degradation by this organism occurred with 17alpha-hydroxy-3-oxoandrost-4-ene-17beta-carboxylic acid (IIIb), which is easily obtained by chemical oxidation of commercially availabe 17alpha-hydroxydeoxycorticosterone, the resulting product, 3-(1beta-carboxy-3aalpha-hexahydro-1alpha-hydroxy-7abeta-methyl-5-oxoindan-4alpha-yl)propionic acid (IVb), could be readily converted chemically into the required dioxocarboxylic acid, (IIb) . Exposure of compound (IIIb) to A . simplex produced, as expected, compound (IVb) which was then oxidized with NaBiO3 to give a reasonable yield of compound (IIb).

Clin Chim Acta, 1977 Jun 15, 77(3), 373 - 7
A simple, rapid fluorimetric assay of amoxycillin in plasma; Barbhaiya RH et al.; A method for estimation of amoxycillin in plasma is described, based on the formation of a fluorescent derivative which is measured in the presence of 2-methoxyethanol . Drugs commonly administered together with amoxycillin do not appear to interfere with the assay . Data on the sensitivity, accuracy and linearity of the assay are presented together with a comparison with the microbiological assay.

J Pharm Sci, 1977 Jun, 66(6), 769 - 72
GLC determination of lasalocid and its bromo analog as their silyl derivatives; Manius G et al.; A GLC method is presented for the determination of lasalocid and its bromo analog . The method is based on the quantitative trimethylsilylation of the compounds without any molecular cleavage, followed by chromatography on a nonpolar silicone column . Silylation was carried out directly without any extraction or prior cleanup, despite the complexity of the dosage forms . This procedure was used for the assay of pure substances, pellets, premixes, experimental ampul solutions, and mycelial filter cakes . The results were in good agreement with data obtained by microbiological procedures.

J Infect Dis, 1977 Jun, 135(6), 999 - 1002
Comparison of concentrations of amoxicillin and ampicillin in serum and middle ear fluid of children with chronic otitis media; Klimek JJ et al.; Twenty-eight children aged five to nine years with chronic serous otitis media received a single dose of either ampicillin or amoxicillin by the oral route 1-2 hr before the removal of middle ear fluid by ventilation tubes inserted through the tympanic membrane . At the time middle ear fluid was obtained, a sample of blood was drawn from the patient, and levels of antibiotic in both specimens were microbiologically assayed by a disk diffusion method . Levels of amoxicillin (mean+/-standard error {SE}, 1.48+/-1.6 microng/ml) in middle ear fluid were consistently and significantly higher (P less than 0.05) than levels of ampicillin (mean+/-SE, 6.2+/-5.0 microng/ml).

Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull, 1977 Jun, 3(1), 28 - 31
Fungus infection of ear; Khan AA et al.; Of 2,632 patients seeking medical help for symptoms pertaining to the ear, 1,264 were clinically suspected to be suffering from fungus infection . Microbiological confirmation of diagnosis was obtained in 209 cases including 82 cases with mixed infections (both fungus and bacteria) . The commonest species of fungus isolated was Aspergillus (Aspergillus niger, 67%; Aspergillus fumigatus, 24%) . Best results in fungus infection of the ear was obtained by daily packing of the external meatus by a wick of gauze soaked in 2% salicylic acid in alcohol (70%) for a few days after removal of the fungal mass.

Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull, 1977 Jun, 3(1), 22 - 7
Determination and bioavailability of ampicillin; Ahmad K et al.; 1 . Spectrophotometric determination of ampicillin showed comparable results with microbiological assay . 2 . A bioavailability study with five brands of ampicillin revealed variations in the serum concentration at 3 hr . but showed somewhat similar concentrations at 6 hr . The results have been discussed.

Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci, 1977 Jun, 16(6), 553 - 6
Treatment of Pseudomonas keratitis in the rabbit with antibiotic-steroid combinations; Bohigian GM et al.; It has been suggested that corticosteroids plus the effective antibiotics are more beneficial than antibiotics alone in reducing inflammation in infectious keratitis . Topical and subconjunctival corticosteroids as adjuncts to gentamicin therapy were evaluated by microbiological assay and clinical parameters in experimentally induced Pseudomonas keratitis in rabbits . Various strengths of dexamethasone given concurrently or delayed in conjunction with gentamicin therapy were studied . There was no statistically significant difference between combinations and the antibiotics alone in this experimental model.

Z Lebensm Unters Forsch, 1977 May 26, 164(1), 15 - 6
{Effect of storage on the vitamin B6 activity of foods (author's transl)}; Kirchgessner M et al.; In a study of the effect of storage on the vitamin B6 activity of foods, the vitamin B6 content of different foods of plant and animal origin and also of a mixed feed with added pyridoxine were analyzed microbiologically using Saccharomyces carlsbergensis as test organism . Vitamin B6 activity was determined initially, in some of the specimens after storage for 10 months and again in all foods after 40 months . The storage period of 10 months caused a loss of the natural vitamin B6 content of about 25--30% . This loss increased to more than 50% after 40 months storage . The diet containing the high level of synthetic pyridoxine lost 85% of its vitamin B6 content.

Nouv Presse Med, 1977 May 14, 6(20), 1737 - 9
{Etiological diagnosis of acute pneumopathies . Evaluative study . 100 cases in a pneumologic center}; Denjean A et al.; This study involved 100 patients with acute pneumonia and hospitalised in a specialised service: 12 bacterial pneumonia, 40 viral pneumonia (i.e . 52% of the total) . Only precise viral and bacterial studies could improve these results . Given the poor results obtained using the microbiological techniques available here, the authors suggest the inclusion in all subsequent studies of aetiological diagnosis of a quantitative examination of sputum bacterial flora and examination for the detection of bacterial exoantigens.

J Pediatr Ophthalmol, 1977 May-Jun, 14(3), 171 - 5
Osteomyelitis of orbital bones; Kapoor S et al.; Clinical, radiological, and microbiological features of seven cases of osteomyelitis involving the orbital parts of the frontal, the maxillary, and the zygomatic bones are described . The cases were managed with antibiotics, curettage, and sequestrectomy . Problems in the correction of deformities due to circatrization are discussed . It is observed that a skin graft at second stage may be a success.

Probl Endokrinol (Mosk), 1977 May-Jun, 23(3), 7 - 12
{Characteristics of the amino acid spectrum of blood serum in diabetes mellitus}; Zlatkina AR et al.; The content of the following 10 amino acids was investigated by means of a microbiological method (with the use of auxotrophic E . coli mutants) in 23 patients with diabetes mellitus with fatty infiltration of the liver and in 27 patients without it: histidine, proline, methionine, cystine, tryptophane, leucine, arginine, tyrosine, lysine, and phenylalanine . Results of study of the amino acid balance were compared with the morphological changes in the liver (the material was obtained by biopsy) . All the diabetic patients displayed an increase in the proline, tryptophane, tyrosine, leucine, and cystine content, and a reduction of phenylalanine and lysine level . Fatty hepatocyte infiltration was also accompanied by a significant elevation of methionine and a reduction of arginine content . A tendency to normalization of leucine and lysine only was seen after the treatment of diabetic patients with fatty hepatocyte infiltration; diabetic patients without any fatty infiltration showed normalization in the tyrosine, lysine content and a tendency to the normalization of the cystine, tryptophane level, but no change in the methionine content.

Biotechnol Bioeng, 1977 May, 19(5), 727 - 40
Ferrous iron oxidation and uranium extraction by Thiobacillus ferrooxidans; Guay R et al.; The microbiological oxidation of ferrous iron in batch and continuous systems has been investigated in relation to uranium extraction from a low-grade ore by Thiobacillus ferrooxidans . The influence of the parameters, agitation, and aeration on oxygen saturation concentration, rate of oxygen mass transfer, and rate of ferrous iron oxidation was demonstrated . The kinetic values, Vmax and K were determined using an adapted Monod equation for different dilution rates and initial concentrations of ferrous iron . The power requirements for initial leaching conditions were also calculated . Uranium extraction as high as 68% has been realized during nine days of treatment . Regrinding the leach residue and its subsequent leaching yielded 87% uranium solubilization.

In Vitro, 1977 May, 13(5), 280 - 92
Chlamydia trachomatis in cell culture . II . Susceptibility of seven established mammalian cell types in vitro . Adaptation of trachoma organisms to McCoy and BHK-21 cells; Rota TR; Trachoma organisms of serotype B were grown serially in irradiated cells (McCoy, BHK-21, Microbiological Associates, and BHK-21, Lister) and tested for infectivity in monolayers of five mammalian cell lines (BHK-21, CHO, HeLa S3, McCoy and OWMK) and two diploid strains (ST/BTL and WI-38) . All cell types had low susceptibility to chlamydial infection but the number of inclusions increased when the inoculum was centrifuged onto the monolayers, or when the cells were irradiated . Infection was higher in non-irradiated CHO than in irradiated CHO in three out of a total of six experiments . Inclusion number was increased 300 times in HeLa S3 and up to three times in the other cell types after treatment with diethylaminoethyl-dextran (DEAE-D) . Serial passage of Chlamydia trachomatis serotype B (strain Har-36) in CO60 McCoy and CO60 BHK-21 Lister resulted in partial adaptation of the strain to the host cell . The phenomenon of adaptation of serotype B to McCoy compensated for the lower susceptibility of this cell revealed when McCoy cells were inoculated with trachoma elementary bodies grown in BHK-21 Lister or in chick embryo yolk sac . Trachoma organisms of immunotypes A, B and C prepared in yolk sac produced more inclusion-forming units per ml in CO60 BHK-21 Lister than in CO60 McCoy.

Zentralbl Bakteriol {Orig B}, 1977 May, 164(3), 250 - 61
{The phototoxic activity of carcinogenic polycyclic hydrocarbons and their degradation products in the biological test (author's transl)}; Graf W et al.; The phototoxic activity of carcinogenic polycyclic hydrocarbons was evaluated using ciliates of the species Tetrahymena pyriformis maintained in sterile, semisynthetic media . This ciliate-light-test was developed into and standardized for a rapid microbiological assay of carcinogenic activity of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons . --In this fashion, six polycyclic aromatic compounds with differing carcinogenic activities were tested:benzo(a)-pyrene, benzo(b)fluoranthene, indeno(1,2,3-c,d)pyrene, benzo(a)anthracene, fluoranthene, and cyclopenteno (c,d)pyrene . An essential parallelism between phototoxic and carcinogenic activities, resp., was clearly obvious . --The combined effects of benzo(a)pyrene and fluoride ions was also investigated using the ciliate-light-test . Fluoride ions in the concentration of 1 ppm did not affect the phototoxicity of benzo(a)pyrene, suggesting that fluorides possess no cocarcinogenic activities . --Degradation products of benzo(a)pyrene obtained by UV-irradiation (mixtures of quinones) were also tested for phototoxic activity . It could be shown that such degradation products entirely free from benzo(a)pyrene still possessed 50% of the activity of the original, non-irradiated solution . This is taken to indicate that the degradation products products resulting of UV-irradiation may still retain a measure of carcinogenic activity, --a finding of considerable importance from the viewpoint of environmental hygiene.

Schweiz Med Wochenschr, 1977 Apr 30, 107(17), 589 - 97
{Pharmacokinetic effect of various antibiotics in the tissues}; Blanchard P et al.; The tissular pharmacokinetics of antibiotics were studied by sacrificing rats in groups of 6 at various intervals after the injection of ampicillin, cephalothin, doxycycline, gentamicin and sisomicin . A microbiological method was used to determine levels in 10 organs . The antibiotic penetrated rapidly into all the tissues but with very different affinities depending on the organ involved . The concentration of doxycycline in the tissues was always higher than in the serum and this relationship was maintained throughout the investigation . This was not true of ampicillin which disappeared a little more slowly from the organs, particularly the renal medulla, than from the serum . The aminosides showed a marked accumulation and prolonged persistence in the renal cortex: 4 weeks after injection concentrations were found which were above the maximum levels in the serum . When daily injections of 4 mg/kg aminoside were given, concentrations above 350 mug/g were found after 7 days . These findings permit a better understanding of antibiotic effectiveness and toxicity.

Br Med J, 1977 Apr 16, 1(6067), 998 - 1000
Inactivation of penicillin by purulent exudates; de Louvois J et al.; Four of 22 specimens of human pus inactivated up to 90% of added penicillin within one hour in vitro . Ampicillin and cephaloridine were also inactivated, but streptomycin and fusidic acid were not . The effect was not related to the protein content of the pus, nor to its pH value . Microbes that may produce beta-lactamase in small quantities were isolated from three of the four specimens, but the enzyme was not detected in the pus by physical methods nor by microbiological inhibition assay . The inactivating effect was shown to be a property of the solid portion of the pus, and was absent from the filtrate . We suggest that the effect may be an intrinsic property of the host, which should be investigated further as it has important implications for clinical practice.

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