bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ALPHA FETOPROTEIN AND HUMAN PLACENTAL LACTOGEN LEVELS IN MATERNAL SERUM 1N MULTIPLE PREGNANCIES
Authors: Garoff Leena , Seppäuläu Markku
Published: August 2005

Alpha fetoprotein (AFP) and human placental lactogen (HPL) concentrations were measured in maternal serum by radioimmunoassay. Compared with normal single pregnancies, both AFP and HPL concentrations were elevated in multiple pregnancies. Among twin pregnancies, AFP levels exceeding the normal 97.5th centile were associated with intrauterine fetal death in 4 of 7 cases, while fetal death occurred in only 1 of 12 where the maternal AFP concentration was normal. HPL levels in twin pregnancies were below the normal median if the fetus died in utero. The combined efficacy of both AFP and HPL levels in the monitoring of twin pregnancies was assessed. The efficacy of either marker was increased by the concomitant application of the other.
SEROMUCOID AND ALBUMIN LEVELS IN MATERNAL AND CORD SERUM IN RELATION TO OBSTETRIC STRESS
Authors: Good W. , Cochran T. E. , Macdonald H. N. , Cumberbatch K. N.
Published: August 2005

The perchloric acid‐soluble glycoproteins of serum (seromucoid), a serum protein sub‐fraction which increases dramatically, together with a fall in serum albumin, in a wide variety of clinical situations, including clinical stress, was examined in relation to the stress of parturition. The results indicated that while the clinical stress response is not necessarily absent during childbirth, the profound changes in the amount and distribution of body fluid which occur at this time effectively mask any stress response that may have been invoked. Cord serum was also examined in this context and contained higher levels of albumin and considerably lower levels of seromucoid than maternal serum.
IMMUNOLOGICAL STUDIES ON THE NATURE AND ORIGIN OF THE MAJOR PROTEINS IN AMNIOTIC FLUID
Authors: Sutcliffe R. G. , Brock D. J. H.
Published: August 2005

The nature of soluble proteins in human amniotic fluid has been investigated by immunizing rabbits with concentrated amniotic fluid obtained from patients at various stages of pregnancy. The resulting antisera showed that in all cases the majority of the immune response to amniotic fluid was directed against proteins of serum origin, with albumin, α1‐antitrypsin, group‐specific component and transferrin being quantitatively most important. During gestation the concentration changes of these proteins were found to be similar to those of the total soluble protein. The maternal serum: amniotic fluid concentration ratios for albumin, α1‐antitrypsin and transferrin were similar to that found for group‐specific component (known to be of maternal origin), whilst the fetal serum: amniotic fluid concentration ratios for these four proteins were considerably less than that found for α‐fetoprotein (of fetal origin). From this and other data it is concluded that from ten weeks of gestation onwards the major soluble protein in amniotic fluid is primarily of maternal serum origin.
FASTING SERUM LIPIDS AND SERUM LIPOPROTEIN DISTRIBUTION DURING ORAL CONTRACEPTIVE THERAPY IN NIGERIANS
Authors: Kuku Stephen B. , Akinyanju Popo A.
Published: August 2005

Serum total cholesterol, cholesterol esters and lipoprotein components were estimated in controls and in patients who had been on Orthonovin (containing 1 mg. of norethisterone and 0 . 05 mg. of mestranol) and Ovral (containing 0 . 5 mg. of norgestrol and 0.05 mg. of ethinyl oestradiol) for periods ranging from 3 weeks to 100 weeks. The serum total cholesterol level was higher in the patients on oral contraceptives than in the controls, and the increase occurred predominantly in the cholesterol ester fraction. The rise in serum triglyceride level was more striking than that in serum cholesterol. This increase was reflected in a significant rise in the pre‐β‐lipoprotein fraction. The β‐lipoprotein fraction was also significantly elevated while the α‐lipoprotein fraction was diminished. Massive hyperlipemia was seen in 10 per cent of the patients. No significant difference was seen between the effects of Orthonovin and Ovral upon blood lipids.
UNILATERAL HYDROURETER AND HYDRONEPHROSIS WITH HYPERTENSION DUE TO ENDOMETRIOSIS
Authors: Greenhalf J. O. , De Vere R. D.
Published: August 2005

A case is presented of unilateral ureteric obstruction, with hypertension, due to extrinsic endometrosis successfully treated by pelvic radical surgery and ureteric lysis.
RAPID ENLARGEMENT OF A UTERINE FIBROID AFTER CLOMIPHENE THERAPY
Authors: Frankel Toby , Benjamin Fred
Published: August 2005

A case report is presented of a patient who was given clomiphene and soon afterwards was admitted to hospital with acute retention of urine due to impaction in the pelvis of a fibroid which had enlarged rapidly. The authors have been unable to locate a similar previous report.
SCANNING ELECTRON MICROSCOPY OF THE HUMAN PLACENTA AND DECIDUAL SPIRAL ARTERIES IN NORMAL PREGNANCY
Authors: Sheppard B. L. , Bonnar John
Published: August 2005

The spiral arteries supplying the human placenta at full term were examined by scanning electron microscopy. The technique employed allowed a detailed study of the surface structure of the terminal part of the vessels and the openings into the intervillous space of the placenta. Cells of two distinctly different sizes were found lining the internal surface of the spiral arteries and identified as endothelium and cytotrophoblast cells. The cytotrophoblast cells were also observed in the lumen of the spiral arteries. The surface of the basal villi of the placenta had a spongy appearance due to the abundant microvilli of the cytotrophoblast.

The close association of the maternal and fetal circulation was demonstrated and, in some places, the barrier between the maternal and the fetal blood supplies consisted of a single layer of syncytiotrophoblast. Further studies of the maternal vasculature supplying the human placenta may elucidate the nature of the occlusive vascular process which results in placental infarction and fetal growth retardation.
PLASMA PROGESTERONE AND OESTRADIOL‐17β CHANGES DURING ABORTION INDUCED BY PROSTAGLANDIN F2α
Authors: Tyack A. J. , Lambadarios Carol , Parsons R. J. , Stewart C. R. , Cooke I. D.
Published: August 2005

Plasma levels of progesterone and oestradiol‐17β were measured using radio‐immunoassay methods in 52 blood samples obtained from 10 women aborting after intra‐amniotic instillation of prostaglandin F2α. Mean falls in plasma progesterone of 55.7 per cent and in oestradiol‐17β of 46.6 per cent were noted. There was a highly significant correlation between falling concentrations of both steroids and the instillation‐abortion interval (p<0.001).
OBSERVATIONS ON THE CONFIGURATION OF THE FETAL ELECTROCARDIOGRAM BEFORE AND DURING LABOUR
Authors: Lee K. H. , Blackwell R.
Published: August 2005

The fetal electrocardiogram configuration recorded by direct fetal electrode was studied in 32 patients during labour. The PR interval, QRS interval, QT interval corrected for heart rate, R/P and R/S amplitude ratios and the fetal cardiac axis were measured and were similar in recordings made before labour, between or during uterine contractions, or during the second stage of labour. With baseline fetal tachycardia of over 160 beats per minute the mean QRS interval was significantly prolonged and the cardiac axis shifted to the right. During deceleration of the fetal heart rate the mean PR interval and corrected QT interval were significantly shortened and the cardiac axis deviated to the left. During severe deceleration the P wave might be inverted or absent. Notches in the P wave or R wave had no relation to the condition of the infant at birth. Likewise, fetal extrasystoles were not associated with hypoxia as measured by Apgar scores at one minute.
ETHANOL AND ACETALDEHYDE IN THE MILK AND PERIPHERAL BLOOD OF LACTATING WOMEN AFTER ETHANOL ADMINISTRATION
Authors: Kesäniemi Y. A.
Published: August 2005

Ethanol and acetaldehyde were measured in the milk and peripheral blood of lactating women at various intervals after drinking ethanol. The results of the present study support the earlier findings that ethanol reaches human milk in a similar concentration to that in the peripheral blood, decreasing together with the decreasing ethanol content of the blood. On the other hand, no acetaldehyde was found in the milk, even though considerable amounts were measured in the blood. The amount of ethanol that a suckling could receive during maternal ethanol metabolism is shown to be relatively low and unlikely to cause harmful effects when maternal use of alcohol is temporary.
LOW DOSAGE ANTI‐D IMMUNOGLOBULIN IN THE PREVENTION OF RHESUS ISOIMMUNIZATION
Authors: Massi G. B. , Mello G. , Curiel P. , Carapella Erminia
Published: August 2005

Immediately after delivery of a rhesus positive child, a dose of 100 to 125 μg. of anti‐D immunoglobulin was given to 838 rhesus negative mothers in whom a Kleihauer test showed either no fetal cells or suggested a transplacental haemorrhage (TPH) of less than 0.25 ml. Out of 523 patients tested at six months after delivery only one (0.19 per cent) was found to have anti‐D antibodies. Sixty women had a further pregnancy and delivered a rhesus positive child. None developed anti‐D antibodies and all children were unaffected by rhesus isoimmunization. A dose of 100 to 125 μg. of anti‐D immunoglobulin proved effective in reducing rhesus isoimmunization in rhesus negative women with minimal TPH but since a large TPH is rare, such a dose is probably sufficient in 98 per cent of cases.
SUCCESSFUL PREGNANCY AFTER CADAVERIC RENAL TRANSPLANTATION
Authors: Robertson J. G. , Cockburn F. , Woodruff Michael
Published: August 2005

A successful pregnancy following kidney transplantation ended in the infant being delivered by Caesarean section at 32 weeks, after the premature onset of labour. The child was normal and the mother's renal function returned to its pre‐pregnancy state.
EFFECT OF A SYSTEMICALLY ADMINISTERED PROGESTOGEN ON HISTOPATHOLOGY OF ENDOMETRIAL CARCINOMA
Authors: John A. Howard , Cornes J. S. , Jackson Warwick D. , Bye Patrick
Published: August 2005

In twenty patients, Stage I endometrial carcinoma was diagnosed by curettage and treated with gestonorone caproate given systemically, prior to hysterectomy. The histological appearances of the tumours before and after treatment were compared and were related to the total dose of progestogen given. In general, regression of the tumour was noted together with increase in differentiation, particularly of tumours initially showing some degree of differentiation. The future of progestogens in the treatment of endometrial carcinoma is discussed.
PLASMA OESTRADIOL RESPONSE TO SYNTHETIC FOLLICLE STIMULATING HORMONE/LUTEINIZING HORMONE RELEASING HORMONE IN PATIENTS WITH SECONDARY AMENORRHOEA
Authors: Katz M. , Carr P. J.
Published: August 2005

Plasma oestradiol showed a two‐ to three‐fold rise above the mean basal level by six hours after a single intravenous injection of synthetic Luteinizing Hormone and Follicle Stimulating Hormone Releasing Hormone (LH‐RH/FSH‐RH) in nine out of twelve patients with secondary amenorrhoea. Of the remaining three patients, two had persistently high basal plasma gonadotrophins in keeping with a diagnosis of premature menopause and one patient had secondary amenorrhoea of seven years' duration. It is suggested that a six‐hour plasma oestradiol estimate be used as the endpoint of the LH‐RH/FSH‐RH test in order to assess the pituitary‐ovarian axis. If a less than two‐fold increase in plasma oestradiol is found, pituitary reserve can be more intensively studied by assaying plasma follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).
TRANSFER FACTOR THERAPY IN A PATIENT WITH CHRONIC VAGINAL CANDIDIASIS
Authors: Grob P. J. , Wüthrich B.
Published: August 2005

A 32‐year‐old patient with chronic vaginal candidiasis was treated with 8 units of Transfer Factor (TF). Smears and cultures for Candida albicans became negative. Vaginal discharge and itching ceased, and the clinical condition of the vagina improved. Formerly negative delayed type skin tests with candidin converted to positive and Candida lymphocyte stimulation became measurable, suggesting that a defective cellular immunity towards Candida aas restored by TF. Candidiasis reappeared a few months after the last dose of TF when measurable cellular immunity towards candidin was still present. The condition responded rapidly to a local treatment with 5‐fluoro‐cytosin.
ELEVATED AMNIOTIC ALPHA‐FETOPROTEIN IN CONGENITAL OESOPHAGEAL ATRESIA
Authors: Seppälä Markku , Laes Esko , Harvo‐Noponen Marja
Published: August 2005

A case is reported of congenital oesophageal atresia with a broncho‐oesophageal fistula associated with an elevated alpha‐fetoprotein level in amniotic fluid at 34 and 35 weeks of gestation. The mechanism by which this level may become elevated if the fetus has oesophageal atresia is discussed.
TRANSFUNDAL INDUCTION OF PNEUMOPERITONEUM PRIOR TO LAPAROSCOPY
Authors: Sanders R. R. , Filshie G. M.
Published: August 2005

Pneumoperitoneum for laparoscopy was induced in a series of 105 patients by inserting the Verres needle through the uterine fundus. The results indicate that this technique is simple and safe.
EXTERNAL VERSION IN THE RHESUS NEGATIVE WOMAN
Authors: Murray J. , Dewhurst C. J. , Archer G. D.
Published: August 2005

A study was made of 347 rhesus negative women with no antibodies who gave birth to a rhesus positive baby and were given 250 μg. of anti‐D gamma globulin within 48 hours of delivery; in 36 of the patients attempts at external version had been made during pregnancy. Four patients were found to have antibodies at six months or more after delivery and in none of them had external version been attempted. Thirteen patients in the external version group had a further rhesus positive baby without developing antibodies during pregnancy.
PLASMA β‐MELANOCYTE‐STIMULATING HORMONE LEVELS IN PREGNANCY
Authors: Thody A. J. , Plummer N. A. , Burton J. L. , Hytten F. E.
Published: August 2005

Plasma β‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone (β‐MSH) levels were measured by radioimmunoassay in 10 women during the last trimester of normal pregnancy and in 21 women 40 to 95 days after delivery. It is concluded that β‐MSH cannot account for the increased circulating melanocyte‐stimulating activity that has previously been found in pregnancy when bioassays were used.
MATERNAL SERUM SIALOMUCINS DURING AND AFTER NORMAL PREGNANCY
Authors: Good W.
Published: August 2005

This report presents a detailed evaluation of the role of maternal serum sialomucins, determined as seromucoid, in normal pregnancy. These substances effectively block the maternal recognition of fetal antigens in first and possibly second, but not in third or subsequent pregnancies. They act not only at the fetomaternal interface itself, but also at trophoblast deported to the maternal vascular system. It is suggested that maternal sialomucins generate a polyelectrolyte hydrogel at trophoblastic surfaces, and that an immunologically non‐specific mechanism which depends on the establishment of stable hydration structures could account for the masking of fetal antigens. Attention is drawn to inverse relationships between serum sialomucin levels and thymolymphatic activity, both during and after pregnancy. These relationships suggest that maternal sensitization to fetal antigens normally occurs after the fourth puerperal week following the first pregnancy, and that a second pregnancy may be necessary to establish full maternal sensitization.
RUPTURE OF AN ENDOMETRIOTIC CYST IN LATE PREGNANCY
Authors: Anderson Mary , Edmond R. M.
Published: August 2005

A case of rupture of an endometriotic cyst in late pregnancy is reported. This is a rare problem giving rise to an acute abdomen with a clinical picture similar to abruptio placentae. Points in differential diagnosis and management are discussed normal ovary. There would seem to be no justification for immediate radical surgery in such cases.
EVALUATION OF LAPAROSCOPIC STERILIZATION USING A SPRING‐LOADED CLIP
Authors: Lieberman B. A. , Bostock J. F. , Anderson M. C.
Published: August 2005

Laparoscopic sterilization using a Hulka‐Clemens spring‐loaded clip has been evaluated. Application of the clip to the Fallopian tubes is easy and quick. It causes minimal discomfort and can be done under local anaesthesia. It therefore has a place in the field of population control. Only 3 mm. of Fallopian tube are altered by the clip and the chances of successful tubal reanastamosis or reimplantation is increased in the rare instance when required.
THE EFFECT OF CONTINUOUS LUMBAR EPIDURAL ANALGESIA UPON FETAL ACID‐BASE STATUS DURING THE SECOND STAGE OF LABOUR
Authors: Pearson James F. , Davies Paul
Published: August 2005

The effect of continuous lumbar epidural analgesia on fetal acid‐base status in the second stage of labour was investigated. It was found that during the conventionally managed second stage of labour the mother and fetus became progressively acidotic. Although the administration of an epidural block with suppression of the bearing‐down reflex prevented the progressive maternal metabolic acidosis, a cumulative fetal metabolic acidosis was still observed. The possible causes of these findings are briefly discussed.
HUMAN PLACENTAL LACTOGEN LEVELS IN AMNIOTIC FLUID IN RHESUS ISOIMMUNIZATION
Authors: Niven P. A. R. , Ward R. H. T. , Chard T.
Published: August 2005

Human placental lactogen (HPL) levels were measured in the amniotic fluid of 56 patients with rhesus isoimmunization. The more severe the disease the higher were the levels attained and the earlier in pregnancy did the rise occur. Levels above 1μg./ml. at any stage of pregnancy suggested an unfavourable outcome for the fetus, while levels less than 0.7μg./ml. after the 28th week of pregnancy indicated a favourable outcome. There was no relationship between the concentration of HPL in amniotic fluid, and the volume of amniotic fluid and there was thus no need to correct HPL levels for amniotic fluid volume. It is concluded that HPL estimations in amniotic fluid are a useful adjunct to other tests in the management of rhesus isoimmunization.
PLASMA PROGESTERONE ESTIMATION IN INFERTILE WOMEN AND IN WOMEN UNDER TREATMENT WITH CLOMIPHENE AND CHORIONIC GONADOTROPHIN
Authors: Radwanska Ewa , Swyer G. I. M.
Published: August 2005

Plasma progesterone levels were measured by a competitive protein‐binding method in 170 infertile women, of whom 103 were menstruating and 67 were undergoing treatment for anovulatory conditions. The group of menstruating patients was divided into two sub‐groups according to the predominant aetiological factors discovered. Thirty‐three women with obvious non‐hormonal causes of infertility (tubal occlusion or infertile husbands) had mid‐luteal plasma progesterone levels (mean 15.8 ng./ml.) which were significantly higher than those of 70 women without such non‐hormonal factors (mean 11.3 ng./ml.). Forty‐two patients with plasma progesterone levels of less than 10 ng./ml. underwent treatment with HCG or clomiphene or clomiphene and HCG. All these forms of therapy resulted in an approximate two‐fold increase of plasma progesterone concentration, but the best results, in terms of frequency of conception, were obtained by the administration of clomiphene and HCG. In the group of anovulatory patients ovulation was believed to have been induced successfully by clomiphene, or clomiphene and HCG in 57 patients. By monitoring the response to treatment and adjusting the dose, “normal” ovulation, as reflected by plasma progesterone levels, was induced in most instances. Nine pregnancies occurred in 31 patients on clomiphene (45 cycles of treatment) and 16 pregnancies in 29 patients on clomiphene and HCG (60 cycles of treatment). Analysis of the conception cycles revealed that pregnancies occur, with rare exceptions, only during cycles with normal plasma progesterone levels. Defective ovulation and luteal insufficiency as detected by plasma progesterone determination probably play a significant role in infertility and can be corrected in many cases by the preovulatory stimulation of ovarian function.
LUTEINIZING HORMONE, OESTRADIOL, AND PROGESTERONE LEVELS IN THE SERUM OF MENSTRUATING THAI WOMEN
Authors: Saxena Badri N. , Dusitsin Nikorn , Poshyachinda Vichai , Smith Ian
Published: August 2005

The levels in serum of luteinizing hormone (LH), progesterone (P) and oestradiol (E2) during the menstrual cycle have been established in Caucasian women but not in Asian women. In a preliminary study, measurements were made of LH, P and E2 in aliquots of daily serum samples collected throughout the menstrual cycle in a selected group of six healthy Thai women. The patterns of LH, P and E2 in five subjects suggested ovulatory cycles and appeared to be similar to those observed by other investigators in Caucasian women. In two of our subjects, the progesterone levels during the follicular phase were found to be higher than those observed in Caucasian women which suggested either the presence of very marked inter‐cyclic variations for progesterone secretion or an abnormal progesterone metabolism. Our sixth subject with a “short luteal phase”, showed the levels and patterns of LH and P similar to those observed in five “normal” ovulatory cycles. However, the E2 levels were lower during the mid‐cycle and mid‐luteal phases.
SIMULTANEOUS INTRAVENOUS INFUSION OF PROSTAGLANDIN E2 (PGE2) AND OXYTOCIN IN THE MANAGEMENT OF INTRAUTERINE DEATH OF THE FETUS, MISSED ABORTION AND HYDATIDIFORM MOLE
Authors: Naismith W. C. M. K. , Barr Wallace
Published: August 2005

Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and oxytocin were given simultaneously by intravenous infusion to 28 patients with a missed abortion, 5 patients with a hydatidiform mole and 17 patients at or after 28 weeks gestation with intrauterine death (IUD) of the fetus. There were no failures of induction although a repeat infusion was necessary in 2 patients, and 20 of the 33 induced abortions were incomplete. The average induction to delivery interval for all cases was less than 10 hours. Pyrexia developed in one‐third of the patients. There were no other undesirable side effects.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MENOPAUSAL VASOMOTOR SYMPTOMS AND GONADOTROPHIN EXCRETION IN URINE AFTER OOPHORECTOMY
Authors: Aitken J. M. , Davidson A. , England P. , Govan A. D. T. , Hart D. M. , Kelly Anne , Lindsay R. , Moffatt Ann
Published: August 2005

The prevalence of menopausal vasomotor symptoms was assessed in 190 women seen for the first time at various intervals after oophorectomy. Urinary gonadotrophin excretion was measured and the vasomotor symptoms were assessed in 119 patients who were seen again at least one year after being given prescriptions for two tablets daily of either 20 μg. of mestranol or placebo. The prevalence of symptoms decreased with the elapse of time after oophorectomy and showed a significant inverse correlation with urinary gonadotrophin excretion. Mestranol therapy caused a significant reduction in both the prevalence of symptoms and urinary gonadotrophin excretion. Therapeutic failures were usually the result of inadequate medication. It is suggested that menopausal vasomotor symptoms and gonadotrophin excess both reflect hypothalamic‐pituitary dysfunction and are not otherwise causally related.
SPINAL CORD INJURY OF THE FETUS DURING DELIVERY WITH KIELLAND'S FORCEPS
Authors: Pridmore B. R. , Hey E. N. , Aherne W. A.
Published: August 2005

A patient, whose membranes had been ruptured for 60 hours, was delivered at term by Kiellanďs forceps rotation under general anaesthesia of a baby with complete spinal paralysis below C.2. No amniotic fluid was seen during labour or delivery. Although there were no external signs of trauma to the cord or spine at autopsy, sections of the cord revealed interstitial haemorrhage with laceration and oedema at the level of C.2. This damage may have been caused by failure of the trunk to rotate with the head in the absence of amniotic fluid.
CALCIUM METABOLISM IN PREGNANCY AND IN THE NEWBORN
Authors: Watney P. J. M. , Rudd B. T.
Published: August 2005

Various aspects of calcium metabolism were studied in Negro, Caucasian and Asian mothers and their infants. There was an increase in circulating parathyroid hormone in pregnancy and umbilical cord plasma levels were usually as high as those in maternal plasma at delivery indicating that parathyroid hormone crossed the placental barrier. This increase in circulating parathyroid hormone probably reflects calcium depletion of the mother by the fetus and was most marked in women whose diet had a low vitamin D, low calcium and high phytic acid phosphorus content. Transient neonatal hypocalcaemia was most common in the infants of Asian women, even when these were breast fed, and it was these women whose antenatal serum calcium, phosphorus and heat labile alkaline phosphatase values suggested that they had maximum parathyroid stimulation. Bakwin (1937) suggested that high circulating levels of parathyroid hormone cause hypoplasia of the fetal parathyroid glands with a fall of serum calcium in the neonatal period; our results support this theory.
THE FORMATION OF HL‐A ANTIBODIES IN PREGNANCY. THE ANTIGENICITY OF ABORTED AND TERM FETUSES
Authors: Burke Jeanne , Johansen Karl
Published: August 2005

A total of 1201 maternal sera obtained before 20 weeks gestation were screened for lymphocytotoxic antibodies directed against HL‐A antigens. Their incidence was 10 per cent in primigravidae, 17 per cent in the second and 22 per cent in third or subsequent pregnancies. Among secundigravidae, strong antibodies were found more often in women having had one live birth (14 per cent), than in those having had only a single abortion (5.6 per cent). It was concluded that the antigenic stimulus from a pregnancy ending in abortion is very weak compared with that of one which goes to term. The relationships between antibody formation and habitual abortion and grande multiparity were explored inconclusively.
A COMPARISON BETWEEN CATGUT AND POLYGLYCOLIC ACID SUTURES IN EPISIOTOMY REPAIR
Authors: Livingstone E. , Simpson D. , Naismith W. C. M. K.
Published: August 2005

Either catgut or polyglycolic acid sutures (“Dexon”) were randomly selected for the repair of episiotomies in 100 patients. Significantly less postpartum perineal pain and oedema occurred when polyglycolic acid sutures were used.
CONCENTRATIONS OF PROSTAGLANDIN F2α IN AMNIOTIC FLUID AND PLASMA IN SPONTANEOUS AND INDUCED LABOURS
Authors: Hillier Keith , Calder Andrew A. , Embrey M. P.
Published: August 2005

Concentrations of prostaglandins Fα (PGF2α plus PGF1α) have been measured in terms of PGF2α equivalents by specific radioimmunossay in serial samples of amniotic fluid and peripheral plasma from five patients with spontaneous onset of labour, five induced by amniotomy followed by intravenous oxytocin and six by amniotomy followed by intravenous prostaglandin E2. The mean PGFα concentration in amniotic fluid at amniotomy in patients not in labour was 0.68±0.2 (S.D.) ng./ml. After three to four hours stimulation with oxytocin or PGE2, the concentration was 0.76±0.7 ng./ml. This value is significantly lower (p<0.05) than the concentration in the first amniotic fluid sample taken from patients in spontaneous labour (2.34±l.7) ng./ml., despite uterine activity being tocographically greater in the former patients. In patients labouring spontaneously a transient decline was noted in amniotic fluid PGFα from 2.5±l.6 at amniotomy to 0.79±0.6 ng./ml. in the subsequent sample. A rise in amniotic fluid PGFα concentrations was noted in all patients during the course of labour but the extent of the increase was variable reaching 0.8 to 30 ng./ml.; in four of six patients in whom amniotic fluid sampling was continued during the second stage a further rise in PGFα occurred.

Peripheral plasma levels of PGFα did not increase during labour.
THE EFFECT UPON THE FETUS OF AN OXYTOCIN INFUSION IN THE ABSENCE OF UTERINE HYPERTONUS
Authors: Weaver Judith B. , Pearson James F. , Turnbull A. C.
Published: August 2005

The effect of oxytocin administration by the Cardiff Infusion System upon fetal acid‐base balance and the continuous fetal heart rate pattern was measured in ten “Clinically Acceptable Ideal” multigravidae and ten controls. In the absence of uterine hypertonus oxytocin administration was not associated with evidence of fetal asphyxia during the first stage of labour.
ACTOMYOSIN CONTENT OF THE HUMAN PLACENTA
Authors: Michael Con
Published: August 2005

The total soluble protein and the concentration of the contractile protein actomyosin were estimated in the human placenta at varying stages of gestation. As maturity and differentiation of the placenta occurred the proteins increased in concentration. The actomyosin was thought to be present in the smooth muscle fibres in the chorionic plate, and related to the placental vessel walls. The contractile property of the smooth muscle and the demonstration of contractile protein suggested that they play an active role in the dynamics of placental circulation.
THE VARIABILITY OF PLASMA OESTRADIOL CONCENTRATION IN LATE PREGNANCY
Authors: Chan Tanny , Klopper Arnold
Published: August 2005

Plasma oestradiol concentration was measured daily in five normal subjects for five consecutive days during the third trimester of pregnancy. The overall co‐efficient of variation was 7.9 per cent for conjugated oestradiol, 7.2 per cent for the unconjugated steroid and 7.4 per cent for the total oestradiol. Single measurements were made in a further 30 women. Generally the conjugated and unconjugated steroid were present in equal amounts.
ADRENAL RESPONSE IN PREGNANCY TO LONG‐ACTING TETRACOSACTRIN
Authors: Johnstone F. D. , Campbell Stuart
Published: August 2005

Plasma 11‐hydroxycorticosteroid (11‐OHCS) values were studied before and after an intramuscular injection of 1 mg. of long‐acting tetracosactrin in 8 patients in the second trimester of pregnancy, 9 patients in the third trimester, and 10 non‐pregnant control patients. Resting values in patients in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy were similar and were significantly higher than the values in non‐pregnant patients. At 6 hours and 10 hours after a tetracosactrin injection the increase in plasma 11‐OHCS values was significantly greater in pregnant patients than in controls. The shape of the response curve in pregnancy was different to that of the controls; in the non‐pregnant patients there was a steep rise at 3 hours with a plateau from 6 hours onwards while in the pregnant patients there was a peak between 6 and 10 hours with a more rapid subsequent decline. Plasma oestriol levels were not influenced by changes in plasma cortisol. The response of plasma 11‐OHCS levels to an injection of long‐acting tetracosactrin is considered to be a safe, simple and effective method of assessing adrenal function in pregnancy.
EFFECT OF DEXAMETHASONE ON SERUM LEVELS OF HUMAN PLACENTAL LACTOGEN DURING THE LAST TRIMESTER OF PREGNANCY
Authors: Ylikokkala O. , Kauppila A. , Tuimala R.
Published: August 2005

Twelve mothers were given orally 1.0 mg. of dexamethasone four times daily for 6 to 12 days during the last trimester of pregnancy. Serial serum human placental lactogen (HPL) determinations were made by radioimmunoassay before and during the treatment. Dexamethasone did not change the HPL level.
IMMEDIATE POST‐TERMINATION INSERTION OF COPPER 7 AND DALKON SHIELD INTRAUTERINE CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES
Authors: Newton John , Elias Julian , Johnson Anthony
Published: August 2005

The Copper 7 or Dalkon shield standard size intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUCDs) were inserted immediately following vaginal suction termination of pregnancy. A total of 121 patients was randomly selected for each device. The insertion of an IUCD at the time of termination did not increase the incidence of immediate complications. During the subsequent 12 months patients fitted with an IUCD at the time of termination had the same incidence of menstrual upsets, pregnancies, expulsions or removals of the IUCD as patients fitted with an IUCD in the non‐pregnant state. There was no difference in the complication rates of the two devices used at the time of termination.
THE RELATION BETWEEN SIZE AND PATHOGENICITY OF TRICHOMONAS VAGINALIS
Authors: Winston R. M. L.
Published: August 2005

Vaginal trichomoniasis was found in 7.6 per cent of women admitted to medical and surgical wards of a general hospital. Three‐quarters of the infected patients had small trichomonads (average diameter less than 16μ), and half of these reported vaginal discharge and sometimes irritation; most of them had marked inflammatory changes in desquamated vaginal squamous cells. Patients infected with large trichomonads (16μ or more) were asymptomatic. During culture in vitro of small trichomonad strains for up to 30 days, the organisms present tended to become progressively larger and giant forms appeared. With large trichomonad strains there was some decrease in size during the first three days, but thereafter changes in the cultures resembled those seen in cultures derived from small strains. After prolonged culture, size and morphology of organisms derived from small and large strains became identical. Patients with carcinoma in situ of the cervix and vaginal trichomoniasis tended to harbour small trichomonads.
INFLUENCE OF α‐MELANOCYTE‐STIMULATING HORMONE (α‐MSH), GROWTH HORMONE (GH) AND FETAL BRAIN EXTRACTS ON INTRAUTERINE GROWTH OF FETUS AND PLACENTA IN THE RAT
Authors: Honnebier W. J. , Swaab D. F.
Published: August 2005

In order to determine what factors of the fetal hypothalamo‐hypophysial system can stimulate fetal body and placental growth, various compounds were tested. Fetal brain extracts, α‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone (α‐MSH) and growth hormone (GH) were injected directly into 19‐day‐old intact or brain‐aspirated rat fetuses. Fetal and placental weight were determined on day 21. In addition, the effects of the operation and injection procedure itself on fetal and placental weight were established.

Increased placental weight was produced in brain‐aspirated fetuses by α‐MSH or GH, and in intact fetuses by GH and fetal brain extracts. Increased fetal weight was produced by α‐MSH in brain‐aspirated fetuses. These results suggest a possible role for GH and α‐MSH in placental growth, and for α‐MSH in fetal growth.
HUMAN SEXUAL DIFFERENTIATION—IN UTERO INFLUENCES
Authors: Abramovich D. R.
Published: August 2005

Measurement of the plasma testosterone in fetuses of 12 to 18 weeks' gestation showed levels in the male fetus that were nine times those of the female but that the amounts in the male fetuses declined until at term there was no significant difference between the sexes. Maternal plasma levels rose during pregnancy but the fetal sex could not be ascertained from maternal levels. Preliminary evidence of steroid uptake by the fetal hypothalamus is presented. It is suggested that HCG is responsible for the differentiation of the male internal and external genitalia in the human because it seems to stimulate androgen production by the fetal testis.
THE EFFECT OF INTRAVENOUS OESTROGEN INJECTIONS ON PLASMA HUMAN PLACENTAL LACTOGEN LEVELS
Authors: Niven P. A. R. , Buhi W. C. , Spellacy W. N.
Published: August 2005

Conjugated oestrogens (Premarin) or saline were injected intravenously into 45 women in late pregnancy, and plasma human placental lactogen (HPL) levels measured at frequent intervals for two hours thereafter. No significant changes were demonstrated in HPL levels. From these data it does not appear that oestrogens play a major role in the control of HPL secretion.
THE EFFECT OF FRUSEMIDE ON URIC ACID LEVELS IN MATERNAL BLOOD, FETAL BLOOD AND AMNIOTIC FLUID
Authors: Carswell W. , Semple P. F.
Published: August 2005

Concurrent measurements of uric acid levels in maternal serum, fetal serum and amniotic fluid were made in 52 patients. The patients with pre‐eclampsia who were not on frusemide had higher uric acid levels in all fluids studied than did the untreated controls and frusemide increased the uric acid levels further in both types of patient. The potentially harmful effect on the fetus of high uric acid levels induced by frusemide should be considered. Raised levels of uric acid in amniotic fluid may invalidate the use of this measurement as an index of fetal maturity in patients who have pre‐eclampsia or who are on diuretics.
THE ULTRASTRUCTURE OF THE ARTERIAL SUPPLY OF THE HUMAN PLACENTA IN EARLY AND LATE PREGNANCY
Authors: Sheppard B. L. , Bonnar John
Published: August 2005

Ultrastructural changes in the uterine arteries supplying the human placenta in early and late pregnancy have been studied. The arteries of the myometrium contained no elastic lamina between the endothelium and smooth muscle cells of the media. Intraluminal trophoblast cells are present within the spiral arteries of the decidua and in areas also form an intimal lining of the vessels. Within the media of the decidual spiral arteries in early and late pregnancy trophoblast cells are also present and together with amorphous material largely replace the smooth muscle cells of the media. The electron dense material surrounding the trophoblast in the media was identified as fibrin. In late pregnancy mural thrombi were found in both myometrial and decidual spiral arteries. The removal of the elastic lamina will reduce the compliance and variation of pressure in the arterial blood flow to the placenta. The type of structural modification of the media of the arteries supplying the placenta will facilitate the expansion of these vessels to provide increased blood flow as pregnancy advances and their occlusion and collapse after parturition.
AMNIOTIC FLUID COMPOSITION IN MALFORMATIONS OF THE FETAL CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM
Authors: Emery A. E. H. , Brock D. J. H. , Burt D. , Eccleston D.
Published: August 2005

The results are presented of measurements of optical density at 450nm (ΔOD450), 5‐hydroxyindole acetic acid (5‐HIAA), α‐fetoprotein (AFP) and amino acids in amniotic fluid at various stages of gestation in over 60 pregnancies in which the fetus had a neural tube defect namely anencephaly and/or spina bifida. Before 20 weeks' gestation neither ΔOD450 nor 5‐HIAA levels were abnormal. AFP levels were more reliable than amino acid concentrations for the antenatal diagnosis of neural tube defects, particularly in early pregnancy. Various interpretations for these findings are discussed including the possibility that ΔOD450 and AFP levels in amniotic fluid might reflect altered maternal metabolism.
PROGESTERONE INHIBITION OF HUMAN MYOMETRIUM CREATINE PHOSPHOKINASE ACTIVITY IN THE NON‐GRAVID SUBJECT
Authors: Lanza A.
Published: August 2005

Experiments done on uterine muscle obtained from non‐pregnant patients at hysterectomy showed that the preoperative injection of progesterone inhibited creatine phosphokinase (CPK) activity of the myometrium.
PRIMARY OVARIAN LYMPHOMA
Authors: Cooper J. A. , Broad A. F. , Salm R.
Published: August 2005

A primary ovarian lymphosarcoma in a woman aged 45 years is recorded. The patient is alive and well three years after surgery and radiotherapy. The relevant literature is discussed.
A COMPARISON OF CENTRAL VENOUS PRESSURE CHANGES IN THE THIRD STAGE OF LABOUR FOLLOWING OXYTOCIC DRUGS AND DIAZEPAM
Authors: Williams C. Vaughan , Johnson A. , Ledward R.
Published: August 2005

The changes in central venous pressure (CVP) in patients who received ergometrine, oxytocin, ergometrine with oxytocin (Syntometrine), or no oxytocic drug in the third stage of labour have been compared. The results showed that there was a significant rise in central venous pressure after the administration of ergometrine and Syntometrine. When diazepam was given late in the first stage of labour to a group of patients who received Syntometrine during the course of delivery the changes in CVP were not significantly different from those of the control group. In addition, the administration of oxytocin in the management of the third stage did not produce a significant rise in CVP. The volume of blood lost was significantly reduced in all subjects by the use of oxytocic drugs.
MATERNAL HYPOXAEMIA AFTER PETHIDINE
Authors: Huch A. , Huch R. , Lindmark G. , Rooth G.
Published: August 2005

Transcutaneous oxygen tension (tcPO2) was monitored in 28 women during labour, using a method which correlates closely with arterial oxygen tension. Most women increased their ventilation during uterine contractions and decreased it when the uterus relaxed. The tcPO2 record, therefore, showed a wave form synchronous with the uterine pressure curve.

In four out of nine women given 50 mg. of pethidine and in 13 out of 19 given 100 mg. of pethidine with 1.25 mg. of levallorphan (Dolantin S), the fall in tcPO2 became greater immediately following the administration of the drug. The tcPO2 fell to about 30 mm. Hg in four women. Abnormal heart rate patterns were recorded from eight fetuses.
OVULATORY FAILURE IN A NORMAL POPULATION AND IN PATIENTS WITH BREAST CANCER
Authors: Swain Margaret C. , Bulbrook R. D. , Hayward J. L.
Published: August 2005

The luteal phase plasma progesterone levels of 341 control patients were compared with those in 25 patients with early and 12 patients with advanced breast cancer. There was a significant increase of ovulatory failure and luteal deficiency in patients with advanced breast cancer.
INTRAUTERINE ADMINISTRATION OF PROSTAGLANDIN 15 (S) 15 METHYL E2 METHYL ESTER IN THE MANAGEMENT OF PATIENTS WITH A HYDATIDIFORM MOLE
Authors: Karim S. M. M. , Ratnam S. S. , Choo H. T.
Published: August 2005

Intrauterine administration of Prostaglandin 15 (S) 15 methyl E2 methyl ester was successfully used to evacuate the uterus in 20 patients with a hydatidiform mole. Fifteen patients aborted with a single intrauterine dose of 30μg. of the analogue and five were given a second dose eight hours later. The interval between the first dose to expulsion of the hydatidiform mole ranged from 2 3/4 hours to 16 hours with a mean of 9 hours 4 minutes for the 20 patients.
MATERNAL DEATH DUE TO PRIMARY PERITONEAL PREGNANCY
Authors: Clark A. D. , McMillan J. A.
Published: August 2005

A case of primary peritoneal pregnancy was confirmed by autopsy. The findings suggested that the fertilized ovum had implanted in a focus of endometriosis.
AN ASSESSMENT OF URINARY AND PLASMA STEROID ESTIMATIONS FOR MONITORING TREATMENT OF ANOVULATION WITH GONADOTROPHINS
Authors: Black W. P. , Coutts J. R. T. , Dodson Kay S. , Rao L. G. S.
Published: August 2005

Total urinary oestrogens (UE), plasma oestradiol‐17β (PE2), plasma progesterone and urinary pregnanediol values were estimated during 28 cycles of treatment with human menopausal gonadotrophins (HMG) and human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) in seven patients with primary or secondary amenorrhoea who complained of infertility. Ovulation occurred in 23 courses of treatment and three patients became pregnant. PE2 estimations gave a more accurate day to day assessment of the response of patients to treatment than UE values. Monitoring of treatment with PE2 values should reduce any tendency to overstimulation with HMG and allow more accurate timing of the first HCG injection which is critical for a successful ovulatory response. The first HCG dose is an effective stimulus to ovulation when administered on the day of the UE peak which is the day after the PE2 peak. The first HCG dose appeared to be an ineffective stimulus to ovulation if given subsequent to this time or more than two days after the last HMG stimulation.
THE EFFECT OF BED REST ON PLASMA RENIN IN HYPERTENSIVE DISEASE OF PREGNANCY
Authors: Symonds E. M. , Andersen G. J.
Published: August 2005

Plasma renin concentration and plasma renin activity have been measured in a group of women in the third trimester of pregnancy before and after three days' bed rest. Twelve women were normotensive, 21 women had pregnancies complicated by hypertension alone, and in 9 women the pregnancy was complicated by hypertension and proteinuria.

Bed rest resulted in an increase in plasma renin activity and concentration in the groups where pregnancies were complicated by hypertension or hypertension and proteinuria.

The study also confirms previous observations that plasma renin concentration and plasma renin activity are lower in pregnancies complicated by hypertension than in normal pregnancies. The one exception was the group of multigravidae with hypertension and proteinuria where the levels were higher after rest than in all other groups.
REPRODUC1B1LITY OF MEASUREMENT OF FETAL BIPARIETAL DIAMETER BY ULTRASONIC CEPHALOMETRY
Authors: Lunt Rosemary M. , Chard T.
Published: August 2005

The error in ultrasonic measurement of fetal biparietal diameter was calculated from paired measurements on 129 fetuses of 12 to 40 weeks' gestation. The error was significantly greater for heads less than 59 mm. and more than 83 mm. It is concluded that the technique is of greatest value between the 23rd and 31st weeks. After the 31st week the error increases rapidly until at term it is equivalent to 12 days' average growth. Improvements are suggested which may increase the clinical value of the estimates at all stages of pregnancy.
FETAL GROWTH IN RELATION TO HISTAMINE CONCENTRATION IN URINE
Authors: Harrison V. C. , Peat G. , Heese Hdev
Published: August 2005

The excretion of free histamine in urine was determined in 225 normal pregnancies. It rose to a plateau at about 160 μg./24 hours in the third trimester of pregnancy and then rapidly fell to below 100 μg./24 hours at term. The rate of excretion was found to be helpful in the assessment of fetal lung maturation in late pregnancy. When the excretion rate exceeded 100 μg./24 hours the fetus was likely to be immature, growing adequately and standing a chance of developing hyaline membrane disease if delivered at this stage. When persistently low rates of histamine excretion were recorded, the fetus had either reached the stage of normal full term development or was growth retarded. In either case the lungs of such a fetus were likely to be mature.
MATERNAL ADRENOCORTICOTROPHIC HORMONE AND CORTISOL DURING LABOUR AND VAGINAL DELIVERY
Authors: Kauppila Antti , Tuimala Risto , Haapalahti Jouko
Published: August 2005

Plasma concentrations of ACTH (by radioimmunoassay) and cortisol (by competitive protein binding) were measured in eight healthy parturients during labour and vaginal delivery. The concentration of both ACTH and cortisol increased during labour; the maximum values were recorded immediately prior to delivery. The changes correlated well with the degree of cervical dilatation. Both the mean (±SEM) ACTH (275.3±39.5 pg./ml.) and cortisol (2.33±0.49 μmol./l.) recorded before delivery were significantly elevated compared with the initial values (ACTH: 89.3±39.5 pg./ml.; cortisol: 0.86±0.20 μmol./l.).
SEX CHROMATIN FREQUENCY IN ELDERLY WOMEN AFTER THE MENOPAUSE
Authors: Dokumov Stoyan I. , Spasov Spas A.
Published: August 2005

The incidence of sex chromatin in nuclei of epithelial cells in buccal smears was determined in 63 women aged 62 to 93 who had reached the menopause from 10 to 50 years previously. The incidence of sex chromatin was more than 25 per cent in only 12.7 per cent of women, 20 to 24 per cent in 42.8 per cent of the patients and under 20 per cent of cells examined in 44.5 per cent of patients.
PLACENTA ACCRETA FOLLOWING LYSIS OF UTERINE SYNECHIAE (ASHERMAN'S SYNDROME)
Authors: Georgakopoulos Panayotis
Published: August 2005

Three cases of placenta praevia accreta after lysis of uterine synechiae are presented. The possibility of the above complication in a pregnancy following the treatment of Asherman's syndrome is emphasized. These cases must be under special antenatal care and if diagnosed in time they should be treated by Caesarean section and in most cases Caesarean hysterectomy is probably the safest procedure.