Left ventricular geometry in presenting untreated hypertension

In order to investigate the spectrum of geometry in our patient population, 63 untreated hypertensives underwent two-dimensional echocardiography. Left ventricular (LV) mass index and relative wall thickness, a measure of wall thickness in relation to cavity size, were calculated from the M-mode strip. In addition, to assess the sphericity of the left ventricle the ratio of LV minor to major hemiaxis was calculated. The subjects comprised 41 men (17 Caucasian, 22 Afro-Caribbean and two Oriental), and 21 women (five Caucasian, 12 Afro-Caribbean and two Oriental). Concentric hypertrophy was present in 46% of subjects, concentric remodelling in 32% of subjects, eccentric hypertrophy in only 6% of subjects and a normal left ventricular shape in 16% of subjects. The degree of sphericity of the left ventricle was similar among the four groups, suggesting that it does not change in uncomplicated hypertension. In contrast to the previously published combined series from Sassari and New York we had a low proportion of patients with either eccentric hypertrophy or normal left ventricular geometry. This is probably due to the high proportion of Afro-Caribbean subjects in our clinic population who are more likely to have left ventricular hypertrophy.     

Isoelectric focusing of alkaline phosphatase isoenzymes in polyacrylamide gels. Use of Triton X-100 and improved staining technic

The examination of alkaline phosphatase isoenzymes by means of isoelectric focusing in polyacrylamide gel rods using the apparatus and focusing method of Righetti and Drysdale is discussed. A simultaneous coupling procedure using alpha-naphthyl phosphate and fast blue salt R in 2-amino-2-methyl-1,3-propanediol buffer, pH 9.68, containing MgCl2 and ZnSO4 proved sensitive for developing the enzyme bands. Also discussed are the effects seen with the incorporation of Triton X100 into the gel and sample mixtures. Enzyme, which remained at the top of the gel without using this detergent, entered the gel easily with the addition of Triton X-100 into the application solution. Incorporation of Triton into the gel matrix resulted in some enzyme band patterns that showed distinct differences from gels containing no Triton.     

Effect of isoessential fatty acid lipids from animal and plant sources on cholesterol levels in mature male rats

Isopolyunsaturated lipids isolated from plant and animal sources were included in the diets of mature male rats. Liver and blood serum cholesterol lowering effects were noted only in the lipid from the vegetable source. The authors suggest that the cholesterol lowering effect of vegetable oils is associated with the generally betaunsaturated triglycerides found therein. Journal Article No. 3758, Michigan Agricultural Experiment Station, East Lansing, Mich.