Clinical evaluation of new AMS GSC Plus Card

The AutoMicrobic System GSC Plus Card was compared to a broth microdilution reference method. Of 1660 minimum inhibitory concentration pairs, 86.1% were within 1 log₂ dilution range. A total of 89.2% of the GSC Plus results agreed qualitatively (susceptible, moderately susceptible, resistant). If chloramphenicol data are excluded, agreement is 88.8% and 89.9%, respectively. A total of only 0.90% results were very major or major discrepancies. This is significantly fewer major discrepancies than reported with other systems.     

A comparison of phantom sensations among amputees whose amputations were of civilian and military origins

436 people experiencing phantom limb pain, whose amputations were unrelated to military service, filled out a survey concerning stump, phantom and other pain problems as well as demographic data. Their responses were compared with responses of American veterans, whose amputations were related to military service, who filled out an identical survey. The experiences of the two groups and the characteristics of the reported phantom sensations were remarkably similar. Treatment effectiveness was equally dismal for both groups with about 1% reporting effective relief.     

A comparison of four behavioral treatments of alcoholism

A treatment program was designed to compare the therapeutic efficacy of four behavior therapy approaches to the treatment of alcoholism. Forty-nine alcoholics were administered either a behavioral family counseling, systematic desensitization, covert sensitization or a shock presentation treatment program. The treatment program was conducted in an out-patient setting using both professional and para-professional therapists. Each patient's therapy regime adhered to a standardized sequence of treatment sessions over a 1-yr period. Additionally, each program participant was offered the opportunity to establish a treatment goal of either controlled drinking or complete abstinence. Program data indicated that behavioral family counseling was the most effective alcoholism treatment method of the four procedures studied. Systematic desensitization was highly effective in modifying excessive alcohol consumption with covert sensitization being only moderately effective. Presentation of shock resulted in little behavior change, suggesting that the procedure may have only limited utility for alcoholism treatment in an out-patient facility. Controlled drinking appeared to be an appropriate and practical treatment alternative to the traditional treatment program requirement of complete abstinence. Implications for the operation of behavioral alcoholism treatment programs in out-patient facilities are summarized and discussed.     

Glucose-dependent insulin inhibition of ketone body formation from long-chain fatty acids in the perfused livers of fasted rats

The data presented in this report show a direct effect of insulin on impairment of ketone body production in perfused livers from fasted rats. The data also show that physiologic levels of insulin alone or glucose alone are not sufficient to cause an impairment in ketogenesis. Only when insulin and glucose are both present at levels seen in infected rats is ketone body production impaired.     

Experience with Virocult as a viral collection and transportation system

Virocult was used as a supplemental viral collection and transportation system. It compared favorably with tryptose phosphate broth in maintaining clinically important viruses. Advantages of Virocult over tryptose phosphate broth are commercial availability; extended shelf life at ambient temperature; and ease of use.     

Respiratory obstruction in the newborn associated with increased volume and opacification of the hemithorax

Respiratory obstruction in the newborn can be associated with retained fetal pulmonary fluid if the obstruction was present in utero. The chest roentgenogram demonstrates increased volume and radiopacity of the affected lung. Two patients in respiratory distress with these roentgenographic manifestations are presented. The diagnostic approach to this problem is discussed.     

Biologic feedback and cardiovascular disease

An open system model is proposed that integrates the stress concepts of physiology and psychology and focuses on the role of external and internal stressors in initiating and maintaining a non-adaptive chronic disease state. A rationale for the utilization of biologic feedback techniques to attain more adaptive biologic response patterns is presented. Particular importance is placed on the cognitive aspects of the “learning climate” and the role of relaxation training. The clinical application of biologic feedback in the treatment of chronic cardiovascular disease is de scribed, and data are presented to support the hypothesis that chronic stress response patterns can be altered.