bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
VARIATION IN PACING THRESHOLD
Authors: Grendahl Helge , Schaanning Carl G.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. The pacing threshold has been examined in patients with endocardial pacemaker electrode and external pacemaker. A mean increase in pacing threshold was observed in the first 7 to 14 days after insertion of the electrode, from 1.3 volt at the time of insertion to 2.5 volts after 7 days and 2.8 volts after 14 days. In some patients an initial and transitory decrease was found in the first few days. Great individual variations were seen. Because of these variations it is, in our opinion, necessary to check the threshold value in patients with myocardial infarction by daily measurements to adjust the pacemaker output at the lowest possible level. Significant variations during the day, and after meals, sleeping or physical activity, as reported by others, were not found.
POSTTRANSFUSION MONONUCLEOSIS WITH HETEROPHIL ANTIBODIES
Authors: Kapsenberg J. G. , Langenhuysen M. M. A. C. , Nieweg H. O. , Deiss H.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. A patient is presented with a virologically and serologically confirmed posttransfusion cytomegalovirus mononucleosis followed by the appearance of heterophil and EB virus antibodies. The patient received blood from one donor only, having antibodies to both viruses. This fact is compatible with the supposition that the donor was a carrier of both cytomegalovirus and EB virus. It is suggested that there may be two kinds of posttransfusion mononucleosis, differing in causative agent and in clinical picture. One of these is caused by cytomegalovirus and is not attended by heterophil antibodies. The other is accompanied by a positive heterophil antibody test and usually by lymphadenopathy and is associated with EB virus or a closely related agent. The latter is indistinguishable from classical infectious mononucleosis or glandular fever. Both types were observed in the patient concerned.
ENZYMATIC PATTERN OF LIVER INJURY IN DUPUYTREN'S CONTRACTURE
Authors: Pojer J. , Jedličková J.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. In two groups of patients with Dupuytren's contracture the first of which consisted of patients operated upon, and the second of patients hospitalized for various reasons in whom the contracture was discovered by chance, indicator and excretory serum enzymes have been determined. A statistically highly significant increase of serum leucine amino peptidase and γ‐glutamyl transpeptidase was found. There was a simultaneous increase of serum alkaline phosphatase as well, but this rise was not statistically significant. Accompanying diseases were represented chiefly by ethylism and diseases of the liver or gastrointestinal tract.
ANKLE JERK ESTIMATION AND THE THYROID FUNCTION IN A HEALTH SURVEY
Authors: Engström J. , Carlberger G. , Molin L. , Sjögren A.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. The reliability of the ankle jerk test (AJT) as an indicator of thyroid hypofunction has been studied in a health survey. A strong correlation was found between the AJT and the results of clinical scoring. The AJT could not be correlated to the serum FBI, cholesterol or the T3‐resin uptake test. As the diagnosis of thyroid hypofunction remains primarily clinical, the AJT is suggested as the method of choice for screening purposes as compared to PBI, cholesterol and T3‐resin uptake measurements.
AUTOANTIBODIES RELATED TO TREATMENT WITH CHLORTHALIDONE AND α‐METHYLDOPA
Authors: Feltkamp T. E. W. , Mees E. J. Dorhout , Nieuwenhuis M. G.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. Sera from 96 hypertensive patients and an equal number of matched controls have been studied for autoantibodies. Significantly higher frequencies were found of antibodies to gastric parietal cells (14%) and antinuclear factors (A.N.F.) (14%). The direct anti‐human globulin (A.H.G.) test was positive in 5% of the hypertensive patients. No increase was found in the incidence of other autoantibodies. The occurrence of A.N.F. appeared to be related to treatment with chlorthalidone, and the incidence of a positive direct A.H.G. test to α‐methyldopa therapy. A possible combined effect of these drugs on serological aberrations was observed. These aberrations appeared to be unrelated to the possible cause and severity of hypertension and to age and sex. No relation was found between treatment and antibodies to gastric parietal cells.
EXPERIENCES WITH TWO SIMPLE ASPIRATION LIVER BIOPSY TECHNIQUES
Authors: Lundvall Ove , Iwarsson Sten
Published: August 2010

Abstract. Two simple aspiration liver biopsy techniques, suitable in clinical routine work, are described. These techniques, employed in more than 500 patients, yielded material sufficient for histological examination in all but occasional cases. One fatal bleeding occurred and in one patient an arteriovenous intrahepatic aneurysm was discovered some years after liver biopsy.
ORALL‐DOPA TREATMENT OF PARKINSONISM
Authors: Andén N.‐E. , Carlsson A. , Kerstell J. , Magnusson T. , Olsson R. , Roos B.‐E. , Steen B. , Steg G. , Svanborg A. , Thieme G. , Werdinius B.
Published: August 2010

Abstract.Six parkinsonian patients have been treated with increasing oral doses ofL‐3,4‐dihydroxyphenylalanine (L‐dopa) up to 8.25 g/d. Previous anticholinergic therapy had been discontinued. Four of the patients were remarkably improved; the best effect was observed on the akinesia. TheL‐dopa treatment was discontinued in two of the patients as they were not markedly improved but displayed considerable side‐effects. Nausea and occasionally vomiting were observed in most patients. Hyperkinesia occurred at the high dose levels. Their mood was elevated but mental disturbance developed in four of the patients. In two of these patients the disturbance disappeared after reduction of the dose. Most of theL‐dopa was metabolized to dopamine outside the brain. Large diurnal variations of the dopa level in blood were observed in agreement with similar variations in the therapeutic effect.
PLASMA RENIN ACTIVITY AND ALDOSTERONE SECRETION RATE IN HYPERTENSION
Authors: Nielsen Ingolf , Jacobsen Jørgen
Published: August 2010

Abstract. Aldosterone secretion rate (ASR) and plasma renin activity (PRA) on normal sodium and potassium intakes have been measured simultaneously in 14 normal subjects, 14 non‐malignant essential hypertensive patients, three malignant essential hypertensive patients, eight renovascular hypertensive patients, two parenchymatous renal hypertensive patients and five patients with primary hyperaldosteronism. The effect of salt loading was investigated in the two latter groups. In all groups of hypertensive patients the frequency of increased ASR was high. Fifity per cent of essential non‐malignant hypertensive patients had an ASR above normal range. There was no correlation between ASR and the grade of eyeground changes in essential hypertensive patients. Excluding patients with primary hyperaldosteronism a pronounced linear correlation between PRA and ASR was found. This indicated that the increased ASR in these groups of hypertensive patients is secondary to renin stimulation. Primary hyperaldosteronism was diagnosed by a PRA/ASR ratio differing significantly from the normal correlation. Failure of salt loading to depress ASR was not specific for primary hyperaldosteronism. In only two of five patients with abnormal PRA/ASR ratio was a solitary adenoma found. Removal of the tumour cured one of them. In the other three patients the adrenals showed adenomatous hyperplasia, and unilateral adrenalectomy had no effect. It is concluded that the best criterion for primary hyperaldosteronism at present is a deviation of the PRA/ASR ratio from the normal correlation, but differentiation between classical aldosteronoma and adenomatous hyperplasia of the adrenal gland is not as yet possible.
HEMODYNAMIC CHANGES IN LONG‐TERM DIURETIC THERAPY OF ESSENTIAL HYPERTENSION
Authors: Lund‐Johansen Per
Published: August 2010

Abstract. Thirty‐eight men with untreated essential hypertension in WHO stage 1 or II, aged 19–57 years, all working, have been studied ambulatorily. Oxygen consumption, heart rate, cardiac output (Cardiogreen) and intra‐arterial brachial pressure were recorded at rest in supine, sitting and standing position and during steady state work. At rest plasma volume and serum electrolytes were measured. The subjects were divided into four groups: I, untreated 7; II, chlorthalidone 100 mg every second day 9; III, polythiazide 1 mg every second day 7; and IV, hydrochlorothiazide 50 mg twice daily 15.

The subjects were restudied after 8–12 months. In the untreated group none of the results at the second examination were significantly different from those at the first. In the treated groups the causal resting blood pressure and intra‐arterial pressure at rest and during work were significantly lower after treatment than before. At rest when sitting, the mean arterial pressure was reduced 21, 15 and 18% in groups II, III and IV and during work a little less. Serum‐K dropped significantly in all groups, the mean drop being about 0.7 mEq/1 in all groups. Plasma volume (hydrochlorothiazide group only) was 0.24 1 lower after therapy, but the difference was not significant. In the thiazide groups the pressure drop was usually associated with a drop in peripheral resistance, both at rest and during exercise. In the chlorothalidone group the pressure drop was usually caused by a reduction in cardiac index, with little or no effect on the peripheral resistance.
DOSAGE OF HYDROXOCOBALAMIN FOR VITAMIN B12DEFICIENCY
Authors: Skouby Arne P.
Published: August 2010

Abstract.Serum B12activity has been controlled frequently after one and/or two series of five i.m. injections of 1 mg hydroxocobalamin (OHB12) on alternate days followed by injection of 1 mg OHB12every three months for up to four years. Results from 23 patients with B12deficiency indicated that one series of injections followed by four injections of 1 mg OHB12a year is suitable for initial and maintenance therapy.
IRON STORAGE IN PORPHYRIA CUTANEA TARDA
Authors: Lundvall Ove , Weinfeld Aleksander , Lundin Per
Published: August 2010

Abstract. Iron stores have been quantitated by several methods in 30 patients with porphyria cutanea tarda (PCT). Twenty‐seven had clinically manifest and three had latent disease. There were twenty‐three men and seven women. The mean non‐hemin iron concentration in liver biopsy specimens related either to dry weight or to protein content was significantly higher in PCT than in control male subjects. In patients with manifest PCT, iron stores mobilizable for hemoglobin formation by frequent phlebotomy showed a mean value of 1.8 g and a highest value of 4.4 g. The desferrioxamine‐induced urinary iron excretion was above the normal range for males in 2/3 of the patients with manifest PCT, and the mean of the PCT group was significantly higher than that of the controls. All determinations of iron stores in porphyrics, however, showed wide variations between individuals and an appreciable overlap with controls. Although the size of the iron stores was definitely higher in the porphyric group, values within the range of idiopathic hemochromatosis were not encountered. Histochemical examination of the liver showed significantly greater amounts of stainable iron in parenchymal and in Kupffer cells in patients with PCT as compared with control subjects. All patients with manifest PCT had stainable iron in both parenchymal and Kupffer cells. Only a few in the control group had stainable iron in Kupffer cells. The porphyric group also had a higher amount of reticular iron in bone marrow sections. The mean serum iron concentration, the percentage saturation of transferrin and the percentage of sideroblasts were significantly higher in PCT as compared with the controls. The possible mechanisms which might be responsible for the increased iron stores in PCT are discussed.
EARLY AMBULATION IN MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION
Authors: Takkunen J. , Huhti E. , Oilinki O. , Vuopala U. , Kaipainen W. J.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. Two series of patients were compared in an attempt to determine the role of early ambulation in the management of cases of myocardial infarction. The earlier series consisted of 108 patients (80 men, 28 women), the later of 146 (96 men, 50 women). In each series the patients were subdivided into two groups according to the severity of the infarction. In the earlier series the classification was made on the basis of serum enzyme changes, the leucocyte count, hypotension, temperature reaction, and prolonged chest pain. The later series was divided, on the basis of electrocardiographic changes, into intramural and transmural infarctions. In the earlier series the period of complete bed rest at the initial stage was 7 or 14 days and the hospital stay correspondingly 21 or 28 days according to the degree of severity determined at the early stage. In the later series bed rest lasted 3 or 7 days and hospitalization correspondingly 12 or 16 days depending upon whether the myocardial infarction was intramural or transmural. No significant differences were found when comparing the mortality in the series at 7 days and 30 days following the onset of infarction. The results are in favour of early ambulation and suggest that the appropriate length of stay may be shorter than generally stated in the literature.
MORTALITY OF PATIENTS WITH ATRIAL FIBRILLATION BEFORE AND AFTER INTRODUCTION OF DC COUNTER SHOCK THERAPY
Authors: Takkunen J. , Oilinki O. , Salokannel J. , Vuopala U.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. In the series of 218 patients with atrial fibrillation treated by DC reversion 78 patients (35%) maintained sinus rhythm for three months or more. Twenty‐eight patients of this group have been followed up for four years, and the mortality rate was 32% in this group. The control series of 130 patients without DC reversion reached the same mortality level after only two years. This difference is highly significant. Problems concerning the choice of patients suitable for DC reversion is discussed.
GASTROINTESTINAL DISTURBANCES IN PATIENTS WITH SEVERE RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS
Authors: Pettersson Tor , Wegelius Otto , SkrifVars Bo
Published: August 2010

Abstract.Twenty‐two patients with classical rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and two with active rheumatoid spondylitis have been investigated for malabsorption. The liver and pancreatic functions were also studied. Ten patients had flat lactose tolerance curves. In six of these, intestinal biopsy revealed selective lactase deficiency. Intestinal amyloidosis was observed in four patients, while a fifth showed renal amyloidosis. Seven patients had pathologicald‐xylose tolerance tests and nine had pathological vitamin A tolerance curves. Five patients exhibited folic acid deficiency and twenty low serum iron levels. A total of 16 patients showed some form of malabsorption. Pathological liver function tests were obtained in five cases, and signs of pancreatitis were observed in one patient.
DIGITALIS INTOXICATION
Authors: Jørgensen Asger Whitta , Sørensen Ole Helmer
Published: August 2010

Abstract. All digitalis‐treated patients from two three‐year periods, 1950–52 and 1964–66, have been compared for the incidence of digitalis intoxication. Out of 418 patients during the first period, 8.6% developed intoxication, whereas this occurred in 17.7% of 679 patients in the second period, i.e. an increase of about 100%, although the doses of digitalis on the whole were lower in the second period. A much more intensive diuretic therapy seems to bear the main responsibility for this marked increase in the number of intoxications, which view is supported by the fact that the average serum potassium was significantly lower in the intoxicated than in the non‐intoxicated patients.
BLOOD FLOW IN VASCULAR DISORDERS
Authors: Hillestad Ixif
Published: August 2010

Leif Hillestad

Abstract. The peripheral cutaneous vessels have been studied at various ambient temperatures and at local temperatures ranging from 40 to 6°C. At the higher local temperatures sympathetic stimuli exerted a strong effect upon the blood flow. By applying local cooling of increasing strength the influence of sympathetic stimuli upon the vascular tone was successively abolished. From around 15°C of local temperature and down to zero vessels were unresponsive to sympathetic nerve influence. It appears that the local cold stimulus is the major determinant of the vascular tone of the skin when man is exposed to cold. Studies of the cutaneous circulation under the same conditions were carried out in patients suffering from various peripheral vascular disorders. Local cold was again found to be the determinant factor for producing the abnormal vasoconstriction. Abolition of sympathetic tone did not prevent the occurrence of spasmodic attacks. The hemodynamic difference between cold‐sensitivity in vasospastic and in obstructive arterial disease of the hands is demonstrated. The findings are discussed in the light of presently applied criteria for treatment of cold‐sensitive peripheral vascular disorders.
MAINTENANCE OF SINUS RHYTHM AFTER CONVERSION OF ATRIAL FIBRILLATION
Authors: Åberg Hans
Published: August 2010

Abstract. In the Department of Medicine, University Hospital, Uppsala, a series consisting of 35 patients maintained sinus rhythm for more than one year after DC conversion of atrial fibrillation. The actual f wave amplitude prior to the pertinent conversion was determined. The composition of the different f wave sizes in this group was the same as in an unselected sample of atrial fibrillation. The long‐term prognosis after conversion of atrial fibrillation with regard to maintenance of sinus rhythm, cannot be predicted from the f wave amplitude in this series.
HEMOLYSIS DURING ACUTE EXERCISE IN PATIENTS WITH AORTIC BALL VALVE PROSTHESES
Authors: Rasmussen Knut , Andersen Anders , Myhre Erik , Hillestad Leif
Published: August 2010

Abstract. Physical exercise may provoke increased erythrocyte destruction in patients with severe hemolytic anemia following the insertion of intracardiac prosthetic materials. The relationship between physical exercise and intravascular hemolysis has, however, previously not been studied in non‐anemic patients with properly functioning ball‐valve prostheses or in unoperated patients with valvular disease. Therefore, intravascular hemolysis was studied before and after a graded exercise test of 15 min duration in three groups of patients: 16 cases with aortic ball valves, 13 cases with unoperated aortic valvular disease and a control group of ten subjects. Serial measurements of plasma heme concentration and serum lactic dehydrogenase activity (SLDH) were made during a two‐hour period. Hemodynamic parameters were recorded during the exercise. All patients with ball valve prostheses showed an increase of SLDH averaging 33 U/l, corresponding to a destruction of red cells in about 20 ml of whole blood during the exercise. Hemolysis of this order of magnitude was not detected by plasma heme measurements, but the average heme concentration was significantly elevated in the patients with ball valves. In controls and unoperated patients neither plasma heme nor SLDH changed consistently following exercise. The discrepancy between the changes in plasma heme and SLDH is discussed; red cell destruction by the ball valves is the most probable cause of the SLDH increment. There was no significant correlation between the SLDH increase during exercise and the ball valve size, heart rate, cardiac output or the SLDH level in the resting slate. Probably individual factors are more important determinants of hemolysis than hemodynamic parameters.
TERTIARY HYPERPARATHYROIDISM
Authors: Sigstad H. , Jacobsen C. D.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. A 30‐year‐old woman suffered from anorexia nervosa from the age of 14, and vomiting from the age of 18. During recent years she has suffered from renal failure, and on admission to our hospital she had the biochemical changes of “primary” hyperparathyroidism which necessitated excision of three parathyroid glands, of which two showed adenomatous hyperplasia. In this patient a transition from secondary to tertiary hyperparathyroidism probably occurred.
PLATELET ADHESIVENESS IN CORONARY HEART DISEASE
Authors: Stormorken Helge
Published: August 2010

Abstract. A study of platelet adhesiveness using platelet‐rich plasma with ADP has been performed in different groups of men. Despite large day‐to‐day variations the method registered individual characteristics in platelet function. A seasonal variation and an increase in adhesiveness with age were found, but the method failed to show any difference between a prospective and a post‐infarction group of the same age. Thus this variant for assessing platelet adhesiveness is not useful for detecting the coronary‐prone patient.
PITUITARY ABLATION IN DIABETICS WITH SEVERE RETINOPATHY
Authors: Madsen P. H.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. Pituitary ablation has been performed in 20 patients with diabetic retinopathy, including 18 with proliferative retinopathy. One postoperative death occurred. The remaining 19 patients have been observed for periods ranging from 22 to 131 months. Pituitary ablation had a distinct effect on the background retinopathy: the haemorrhages and red dots decreased in number, the phlebopathy improved, and newly formed vessels in the retina and iris disappeared in a few cases. However, the effects of operation seem to be of a transitory nature. After some years recurrence in the form of background or proliferative retinopathy and/or rubeosis of the iris was observed in some of the patients. The average decrease in vision was 11% in the group as a whole, but only two patients were blind in both eyes at the last follow‐up examination. Pituitary ablation seems to have inhibited the development of both retinopathy and iridic changes, but only long‐term observations in controlled clinical trials can decide whether this operation is to have a permanent place in the treatment of diabetic retinopathy.
VALIDITY OF BLOOD PRESSURE MEASUREMENT WITH CUFF IN THE ARM AND FOREARM
Authors: Forsberg S. A. , de Guzman Maria , Berlind S.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. The arterial blood pressure has been measured with a cuff in the arm and forearm of 44 patients, and the cuff pressures were compared with contralateral, intraarterial brachial pressures in another 52 patients. 1) A technique for recording of Korotkoff sounds and pressures in the forearm with a standard cuff is described. 2) There were no systematic differences between contralateral arms or forearms as regards intraarterial or cuff pressures. 3) The cuff systolic as well as diastolic pressure was higher in the forearm than in the arm. 4) Systolic intraarterial pressure agreed well with corresponding contralateral arm cuff pressure but intraarterial diastolic pressure was systematically lower than corresponding cuff pressure. 5) The absolute pressure level, arm circumference or skinfold thickness did not influence the results given under paragraphs 3 and 4 as long as the standard cuff was used. 6) In extremely obese patients necessitating the use of a big cuff on the arm there was a big difference between intraarterial and cuff systolic or diastolic pressure, but use of the standard cuff on the forearm gave good results.
CORONARY ANGIOGRAPHY AND ANGINA PECTORIS
Authors: Hillestad Leif , Eie Harald
Published: August 2010

Abstract. Selective coronary angiography has been performed in 35 consecutive patients admitted for anginal pain. Five patients had patent coronary arteries, whereas nine proved to have congenital anomalies of the coronary arteries. Thus about 40% of the patients did not have the expected coronary atherosclerosis. Among the twenty‐one patients having obliterative coronary artery disease only six suffered from lipid metabolic disturbances. In these patients both the diffuse and the occlusive type of coronary artery disease was observed, indicating the influence of additional factors in precipitating the arterial injury. The majority of the patients with acquired coronary artery disease had normal blood lipids. A distinct discrepancy was observed between current criteria of true angina pectoris and demonstrated changes of the coronary arteries. Correlation between electrocardiographic changes and coronary artery obstruction was satisfactory.
FAMILIAL MYOCARDIAL FIBROSIS
Authors: Nieveen J. , Huber J.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. A family is described, suffering from myocardial fibrosis. The maternal grandmother died at an early age. The mother and one of her sisters likewise died young, probably from cardiac causes, and of the present generation seven of the ten members died acutely or after a period of heart failure between the ages of 22 and 53. Two postmortems have been performed. In one patient the postmortem showed extensive myocardial fibrosis without coronary sclerosis; in the other there was arteritis of several organs due to methylthiouracil therapy, and likewise myocardial fibrosis (which undoubtedly contributed to the patient's death). No anatomical data are available on the remaining eight members of this generation; it is probable, however, that the five other deaths were due to the same disease. Of the three surviving patients, one has already developed cardiomegaly with auricular fibrillation, one is suffering from angina pectoris and auricular fibrillation, and the third shows no cardiac abnormalities but marked hypogonadism.
VENOUS PRESSURE CHANGES DURING CONGESTION
Authors: Hesse Birger
Published: August 2010

Abstract. The pressure in the great saphenous vein at the medial malleolus increased to about 60% of a cuff pressure of 60, 70 or 100 mm of mercury when a 7 cm wide blood pressure cuff was placed at the upper edge of the patella or 10 cm more proximally. When that cuff was replaced by another, 16 cm wide, the venous pressure increased to about 90% of the cuff pressure. In all instances the venous pressure increased immediately after the application of the cuff pressure and reached a constant level at between half a minute and five minutes.
A CLINICAL DIAGNOSTIC INDEX IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF THE DUMPING SYNDROME
Authors: Sigstad Helge
Published: August 2010

Abstract. On the basis of the literature and personal analysis of symptoms and signs in 25 gastrectomized patients, new criteria for the dumping syndrome have been outlined. The clinical diagnosis of the dumping syndrome was based upon a clinical diagnostic index. The method was then applied to 49 partially gastrectomized patients. It is stressed that three of the cardinal symptoms may easily be overlooked, viz. sleepiness, dizziness, and restlessness. Eructation and vomiting are components of the afferent loop syndrome and the small stomach syndrome. After a test meal of hypertonic glucose the percentage changes in plasma volume were measured by Evans blue, hematocrit, and hemoglobin values. All three methods revealed statistically significant differences between dumpers and non‐dumpers as regards the mean values of the percentage fall in plasma volume. An increasing fall in plasma volume was generally parallelled by a rising clinical diagnostic index. All patients who showed a fall in plasma volume above 15% were dumpers. Women showed a greater fall in plasma volume and a distinctly larger clinical diagnostic index than men. Statistically significant differences were found between dumpers and non‐dumpers as regards the rise in blood sugar after the test meal.
TREATMENT OF ESSENTIAL HYPERCHOLESTEROLEMIA WITH CLOFIBRATE AND NICOTINIC ACID
Authors: Nordøy Arne , Gjone Egil
Published: August 2010

Abstract. Two groups, each of ten patients, with essential hypercholesterolemia (type II) were treated with alternating clofibrate and nicotinic acid over a period of six months. One group started with three months of clofibrate treatment and the other with three months of nicotinic acid treatment. No dietary changes were made during the test period. All patients responded with a reduction of serum total cholesterol and phospholipids after a three‐month period, either with clofibrate or nicotinic acid. At the end of six months the reduction was more pronounced in both groups, with an average reduction of 28% in serum cholesterol. The effect was independent of which drug was given first.
FUNCTIONAL CHECKING OF IMPLANTED CARDIAC PACEMAKERS
Authors: Rydén Lars , Thornander Hans
Published: August 2010

Abstract. The present work introduces the results of oscilloscopic analysis of pacemaker impulse curves for pacemakers and electrodes of Elema‐Schönander type. The measuring method is described, and a few methodological studies are introduced. Comments are made on the checking of synchronous pacemakers. Values indicating impending pacemaker faults for the types of pacemakers used are presented. A material of 56 exchanged pacemakers is accounted for in detail. Seventeen of these pacemakers have been exchanged as a matter of routine after 18 months of service. Eleven of these 17 were intact, both as regards analysis before the exchange and as regards the checking of the pacemaker itself after explantation. Four pacemakers had to be exchanged owing to clinical symptoms of a defective stimulation. With the present values indicative of exchange one of these would have been exchanged in good time before the onset of the symptoms. In 31 cases the exchange has taken place because of a defective impulse curve, and none of these pacemakers had given any clinical symptoms of a stimulation fault. Only four of these 31 would have been revealed as defective if only pulse counting and ECG had been the basis of pacemaker checking. The reasons for premature failures in the pacemakers used are discussed. Different methods of pacemaker checking and different forms of the oscilloscopical analysis are brought up. The advantages of a checking method of the type used is pointed out and the article is concluded with some views on prospects regarding pacemaker checking.
CLINICAL, METABOLIC AND CARDIOVASCULAR EFFECTS OF DIFFERENT PROSTAGLANDINS IN MAN
Authors: Carlson Lars A. , Ekelund Lars‐Göran , Orö Lars
Published: August 2010

Abstract.Prostaglandin A1(PGA1), PGE2, PGF1α, PGF1β, and PGF2αhave been infused intravenously into nine healthy male subjects. PGA1was given to three subjects in doses from 0.056 to 0.56 μg/kg/min. In one of these subjects a slight flush was seen. The heart rate tended to increase without significant change in blood pressure. The levels of free fatty acids (FFA) in plasma increased slightly. PGE2was given to two subjects in doses from 0.056 to 0.56 μg/kg/min. A flush was seen in all four subjects given PGE2, and the other effects were also similar to those previously seen with PGE1. Thus an increase in heart rate and of plasma FFA levels occurred. With the prostaglandins of the F‐series in doses up to 0.32 or 0.56 μg/kg/min, no clinical effects were noted. There were no significant changes in heart rate, blood pressure or plasma FFA levels.
EFFECT OF DIPHENYLHYDANTOIN ON THE METABOLISM OF DICOUMAROL IN MAN
Authors: Hansen J. Mølholm , Siersbæk‐Nielsen K. , Kristensen M. , Skovsted L. , Christensen L. Korsgaard
Published: August 2010

Abstract.The effect of diphenylhydantoin on dicoumarol metabolism has been studied. Diphenylhydantoin decreases serum dicoumarol and increases prothrombin‐proconvertin concentration in patients receiving dicoumarol orally. The same effect was found when dicoumarol was given intravenously. The decrease in serum dicoumarol was evident after a few days of diphenylhydantoin treatment, but afteer withdrawal an increase in serum dicoumarol was not seen until 2–3 weeks later. Half‐lives of intravenously injected dicoumarol showed inconsistent changes following diphenylhydantoin treatment. Diphenylhydantoin probably acts by inducing the drug metabolizing enzyme system.
THE EFFECT OF PAPAVERINE, LIDOCAINE AND HEPARINE ON THE VASCULAR RESISTANCE IN HYPOTHERMIC KIDNEY PERFUSION
Authors: Løkkegaard Hans
Published: August 2010

Abstract. The effect of papaverine, lidocaine and heparine on the vascular resistance in hypothermic perfused rat kidneys has been investigated in one hundred experiments, using low molecular weight dextran 10% with NaCl 0.9% (Rheomacrodex®, MW 40000) as perfusate medium. The vascular resistance at the start of perfusion is increased due to vasospasm, arising in connection with dissection of the renal pedicle and perfusion with cold fluid, but decreases during continued perfusion. Papaverine and lidocaine, added to the perfusate medium in concentrations of 5 and 100 mg% respectively, reduce the vascular resistance significantly. Heparine in the perfusate medium increases the vascular resistance, but this effect can be neutralized by addition of papaverine. Hepa‐rinization of the animals before removal of the kidneys reduces the vascular resistance at the start of the perfusion. A combination of heparinization of the animals before removal of the kidneys and addition of 5 mg% papaverine or 100 mg% lidocaine to the perfusate medium results in the lowest vascular resistance at the start of perfusion and, therefore, probably yields the best conditions for a rapid and uniform perfusion.
THE EFFECTS OF PARENTERAL CYSTEINE TREATMENT IN OLD PATIENTS
Authors: Brauer E. , Dybkær R. , Johnsen S. G. , Mackeprang B.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. Several authors report that the tissue concentrations of ‐S‐S‐ and ‐SH alter with age towards decreasing ratio ‐SH/S‐S‐, and it is claimed that this would cause detrimental functional changes. Furthermore, parenteral treatment of aged animals and humans with cysteine is claimed to increase the ratio and better the clinical condition. In ten patients, 67–90 years of age, in a stable condition and serving as their own controls, a battery of about 50 clinical chemical tests was used before, during, between and after two or three treatment periods with cysteine and folic acid intramuscularly. The only significant changes observed were in the serum concentrations of aspartate aminotransferase (GOT) and ammonium, and in the urinary excretion pattern of 17‐ketosteroids. No alterations were found in the blood concentrations of oxidized and reduced glutathione. The clinical state was not ameliorated. The discrepancy between these and earlier results is discussed.
THE EFFECT OF PHLEBOTOMY THERAPY IN PORPHYRIA CUTANEA TARDA
Authors: Lundvall Ove
Published: August 2010

Abstract. Porphyrin excretion and clinical signs have been studied in 21 patients with porphyria cutanea tarda treated by phlebotomy and in a control series of 12 patients. Phlebotomy was performed until signs of depleted iron stores appeared. Clinical and biochemical remission occurred in every phlebotomy‐treated patient. In 18 patients who were bled frequently (usually 0.5 1 per week) and who were not given iron supplements in conjunction with phlebotomy, the urinary porphyrin excretion decreased in all to a level of 1 mg per day or less within 1/2 year. Remission ensued in patients with iron overload as well as in patients with quantitatively normal iron stores and in patients abstaining from alcohol as well as in patients with a persistent abuse of alcohol. A decrease in porphyrin excretion comparable to that of phlebotomy‐treated patients occurred in only two out of the 12 control patients. There was a significant relationship between the period required until iron stores were depleted and until the urinary porphyrin excretion fell to 1 mg per day. In one patient given iron supplement for 6 1/2 months in conjunction with phlebotomy, more blood had to be removed to obtain a remission than in any other patient, and this patient had the longest treatment (16 months). Thus the results have shown that phlebotomy therapy is effective in porphyria cutanea tarda. It seems probable that the effect is mediated through the phlebotomy‐induced reduction of iron stores.
LIPID COMPOSITION OF HUMAN LIVER BIOPSY SPECIMENS
Authors: Laurell Sigfrid , Lundquist Alf
Published: August 2010

Abstract. Fine needle biopsy specimens from patients with diseases accompanied by fatty liver have been analysed for triglycerides, phospholipids, free and esterified cholesterol. In selected cases the fatty acid composition of triglycerides was determined. The concentration of the lipids was not found to vary with the fundamental disease. A positive correlation between esterified cholesterol and triglycerides was verified in the presence of a moderately, but not of a severely, fatty liver. An association between esterified cholesterol and the surface area of fat droplets in the liver is suggested.
MECHANISMS OF HEMOLYSIS IN PATIENTS WITH HEART VALVE PROSTHESES
Authors: Myhre Erik , Rasmussen Knut , Dale Jon
Published: August 2010

Abstract. Intravascular hemolysis was studied in a large, non‐selected series of patients with aortic and mitral valvular disease or valve prostheses in order to clarify the mechanisms of the erythrocyte destruction. Hemolysis was slight in unoperated patients, even in cases with severe valvular disease. The degree of erythrocyte destruction in operated patients was mainly determined by the design and material of the prostheses, whereas it was similar in cases with aortic and mitral valves replaced. Our data suggest that the hemolysis in patients with prosthetic heart valves mainly is due to crushing of erythrocytes by the mechanical components of the prostheses, turbulent blood flow probably being a rather unimportant factor.
THE VARIATION IN TWENTY‐ONE SERUM PROTEINS BEFORE AND AFTER RENAL TRANSPLANTATION
Authors: Weeke Bent , Weeke Eva , Bendixen Gunnar
Published: August 2010

Abstract. The concentration of 21 serum proteins was followed by immunochemical methods prior to and after kidney transplantation in 21 consecutive patients. In all 21 patients several proteins deviaed from normal before as well as after the transplantation. The material includes one patient who received a kidney from an identical twin, and five patients who had an uneventful postoperative course. Analysis of the data shows that the changes in serum protein levels following renal transplantation are not caused by 1) the homograft reaction; 2) the immunosuppressive treatment; 3) complications in the postoperative course. The metabolism of several serum proteins seems to be changed when a previously uremic patient receives a kidney transplant. Further studies with labelled proteins are necessary to evaluate the problem in greater detail.
ACUTE RENAL INSUFFICIENCY DURING TREATMENT WITH AZATHIOPRINE
Authors: Sloth K. , Thomsen Age Chr.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. Fever, muscular pain, gastrointestinal symptoms, oliguria and severe reduction of renal function developed in a 49‐year‐old man, suffering from chronic glomerulonephritis, after 11 days of treatment with azathioprine, 3.4 mg/kg/day. During a later attempt at treatment with 1.1 mg/kg/day the same picture was reproduced after a few hours. The kidney damage was probably part of a hypersensitivity reaction to azathioprine. The patient later tolerated treatment with cyclophosphamide.
FACTORS INFLUENCING PERSISTENCE OF SINUS RHYTHM AFTER DC SHOCK TREATMENT OF ATRIAL FIBRILLATION
Authors: Waris Eliel , Kreus Karl‐Erik , Salokannel Juhani
Published: August 2010

Abstract. Of 164 patients with atrial fibrillation, 87% were converted to sinus rhythm, but 51 (32%) of them reverted to atrial fibrillation during the next four days. Of the patients with a successful conversion 41 % were still in sinus rhythm after three months, 34% after six months, and 13.4 % after 12 months. Factors which had a favourable influence on the long‐term results were: 1) a less than 2‐year duration of atrial fibrillation preceding the treatment; 2) age of patients less than 50 years; 3) a normal size of heart; and 4) the hypertensive or hyperthyroid etiology of the underlying heart disease. Pretreatment with quinidine before the DC shock was of no value, and the late results were not significantly better in the quinidine‐treated group than in the controls.
LIVER CIRRHOSIS IN THREE SCANDINAVIAN COMMUNITIES
Authors: Wadman Bengt , Spencer Edwin S. , Werner Ivar
Published: August 2010

Abstract. Epidemiologic data on liver cirrhosis during the period 1951–1968 have been studied in one Danish and two Swedish communities. During the period of observation the liquor consumption in Denmark has shown a slow continuous increase. In Sweden there has been an increase of similar size but most of it occurred between 1955 and 1957, probably due to a drastic liberalization of liquor legislation. In one of the Swedish materials—essentially urban—there was a small but distinct increase in morbidity and mortality of liver cirrhosis within the years immediately following the alcohol let‐loose. This increase was especially marked in middle‐aged males from social group II. On the whole there is probably a slight increase in the incidence of cirrhosis throughout the period. In the Swedish rural region a slight tendency to increased incidence of liver cirrhosis similar to that observed in the urban region was noted in the years following 1955. In total, there is a considerable increase in registered morbidity and mortality in the region during the whole period. This increase clearly parallels the increased facilities for hospital and specialist care in the region. In the Danish material there is a marked increase in the incidence of liver cirrhosis also starting in the years after 1955 and then continuing throughout the period. In contrast to the Swedish series the increased incidence in the Danish material is most marked among females, especially elderly females. Epidemiologic data on liver cirrhosis have often been used as a measure of the extent of alcoholic abuse. Reasonably they may give some information in short‐time studies on well‐defined populations, especially in the case of sudden sharp changes in drinking habits. In longitudinal studies on a more vaguely defined population, and especially in the comparison between different populations, any attempt to estimate alcoholic abuse based on such data seems extremely hazardous.
THE INTENSITY OF ANTICOAGULANT THERAPY IN RELATION TO DEATH IN CORONARY PATIENTS
Authors: van Dijk Cornelia A. , Dominicus Wilhelmina B. , de Jonge H. , Roos J.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. Ninety‐seven cardiac patients who died while receiving long‐term anticoagulant treatment were compared with a similarly treated and selectively chosen group of controls who survived. The mean intensity of hypocoagulability (about 9% thrombotest) did not differ between these two groups and there was no significant difference in the stability of the anticoagulation. It was concluded that death bore no relationship to the adequacy or inadequacy of anticoagulation therapy in this material.
PRUSSIAN BLUE IN THERAPY OF THALLOTOXICOSIS
Authors: Kamerbeek H. H. , Rauws A. G. , ten Ham M. , van Heijst A. N. P.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. In recent literature good results of Prussian Blue therapy in thallium poisoning in the rat have been described. In our experiments Prussian Blue in vitro exhibited a far greater adsorptive capacity for thallium than activated charcoal. Prussian Blue therapy significantly lowered thallium concentration in the brain. A definite dose—residual thallium relationship was demonstrated in rats with thallium poisoning treated with Prussian Blue. Three patients with thallotoxicosis were treated with Prussian Blue and showed a favorable clinical response. For the moment Prussian Blue seems to be the therapy of choice in thallotoxicosis.
RENAL TUBULAR DYSFUNCTION AND HYPERGAMMAGLOBULINEMIA
Authors: Runeberg Lars , Lähdevirta J. , Collan Y. , Jokinen E. J.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. A report is given on a female patient, 32 years of age, with a history of slight joint distress, recurrent dependent oedema, hypokalaemia, hypergammaglobulinaemia and positive tests for rheumatoid factor. Electrolyte balance studies revealed latent renal tubular acidosis (RTA), impaired renal pH‐regulation and impaired renal conservation of sodium and potassium. Systemic pH was found to be largely dependent on the dietary load of sodium chloride. Correction of the hypokalaemia resulted in frank systemic acidosis, whereas persistent hypokalaemia was associated with alkalosis. The situation thus differed from that found in primary RTA. Electron microscopic and light microscopic studies from a renal biopsy revealed simultaneous signs of tubular and interstitial nephritis and slight glomerular reaction. Immunoglobulin deposits were seen in the tubuli and the glomerular basement membrane by the immunofluorescence method.
INTRAVASCULAR COAGULATION AND ACUTE RENAL FAILURE IN A CHILD WITH MYCOPLASMA INFECTION
Authors: Nilsson Inga Marie , Rausing Alf , Denneberg Torsten , Christensson Per
Published: August 2010

Abstract. Report of a 3‐year‐old girl with an acute disease with pneumonia, haemolysis, uraemia and intravascular coagulation. She died after one month in spite of normalisation of coagulation and renal function. The cause of death was Candida septicaemia. Serological evidence of Mycoplasma infection was found.
INFLUENCE OF THE HYPOTHYROID STATE ON LIPOLYSIS IN HUMAN ADIPOSE TISSUE IN VITRO
Authors: Rosenqvist U. , Efendić S. , Jereb Berta , Östman J.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. The regulation of lipolysis has been studied in subcutaneous adipose tissue removed under local anesthesia from hypothyroid patients. As control subjects were used hypothyroid subjects on replacement therapy. Noradrenaline induced no significant increase in lipolysis in tissue removed from hypothyroid patients, while the increase in glycerol release from adipose tissue of the control group was almost twofold. The addition of the alpha‐adrenergic blocking agent phentholamine to noradrenaline‐containing media produced a significant increase in the glycerol release from tissue of the hypothyroid patients as well as from the control subjects. Iso‐propylnoradrenaline, a nearly selective beta‐adrenergic agonist, theophylline or dibutyryl‐cyclic AMP stimulated lipolysis in tissue from both groups. These results indicate that the lipase system cannot be the rate‐limiting factor for the lipolytic response to noradrenaline in adipose tissue from hypothyroid patients. The decreased lipolytic response to noradrenaline in this tissue seems to be due to a more pronounced alpha‐adrenergic effect of noradrenaline counteracting the lipolytic effect mediated by the beta‐adrenergic receptor.
HEMODYNAMIC EFFECTS OF ADRENALINE, NORADRENALINE AND ISOPROPYLNORADRENALINE IN PATIENTS WITH A FIXED RATE ARTIFICIAL PACEMAKER
Authors: Johansson Bengt W. , Lindell S.‐E.
Published: August 2010

Abstract.The hemodynamic response in four patients with an artificial pacemaker stimulating at a fixed rate has been investigated during intravenous infusions of equimolar dosages of adrenaline, noradrenaline and isopropylnoradrenaline. The infusion rate was increased at 8 min intervals to give dose‐response curves. Adrenaline produced an increase of atrial rate, cardiac output, stroke volume, mean pulmonary artery and PCV pressure, while the mean aortic pressure was unchanged or slightly decreased. The noradrenaline produced no change in atrial rate, cardiac output or stroke volume, while the mean pulmonary artery pressure as well as the mean PCV and aortic pressure increased. The isopropylnoradrenaline infusion produced a rise in atrial rate, cardiac output and stroke volume, while no change or a slight fall was observed in mean pulmonary artery, PCV and aortic pressures.
BLOOD LIPIDS IN NORMALS
Authors: Leren Paul , Haabrekke Olav
Published: August 2010

Abstract.Lipid pattern has been studied in 207 (173 males and 34 females) healthy persons. Mean serum cholesterol and triglycerides were 202 and 61, 243 and 100, 256 and 93, 266 and 121, 273 and 109 mg/100 ml, respectively, in the age groups 20–29, 30–39, 40–49, 50–59 and 60–64. With a setting of an upper normal cholesterol limit at 275–300–325 mg/100 ml, respectively, the percentage distribution of lipoprotein types was as follows. Type Normal: 79.2–87.4–93.7. Type II 18.4–10.1–3.9. Type IV: 2.4‐independent of the setting of the upper normal cholesterol limit.