An MMPI subscale (Gd): to identify males with gender identity conflicts

This study reported on the development and cross-validation of a 31-item MMPI Gender Dysphoria subscale (Gd) which accurately discriminates between gender identity patients and matched controls, and identifies males with gender dysphoria syndrome. Both the validity and reliability of the Gd scale has been demonstrated and there is every expectation that the scale has excellent potential for clinical usage. In the construction of the Gd scale, we have addressed the major methodological problems of previous studies which have used psychological tests to assess gender role and identity disturbances: small criterion groups, a lack of an appropriate control group, and prediction of too many false positives.

The development of the dog nigrostriatal system in organotypic culture

Portions of the midbrain and the caudate nucleus from newborn dog (1-3 days old) were maintained in explant culture for periods up to 15 weeks. During that time, nerve cells developing in the midbrain explants projected axons into the explants of caudate. Fluorescence microscopic observations indicated that a large number of projective fibers contained catecholamines with many fluorescing terminals visible in caudate explants. Ultrastructural study disclosed synapses in both midbrain and caudate explants. Some axonal profiles in the caudate were compatible with the appearance of catecholaminergic synapses. Neurochemical analysis showed that the nigrostriatal cultures were capable of dopamine uptake and release.

Specific Pseudomonas immunoglobulin E antibodies in sera of patients with cystic fibrosis

Immunoglobulin E antibodies to Psuedomonas aeruginosa were demonstrated in patients with cystic fibrosis colonized with the bacterium.

Select growth of human T lymphocytes in single phase semisolid culture

Selective growth and clonal proliferation of human T lymphocytes can be achieved by using a single-phase semi-solid methylcellulose system without the requirement of preincubation with lectins. Significant proliferation, however, depends upon the continued presence of Con A or PHA, but not pokeweed mitogen or lipopolysaccharide within the methylcellulose. This procedure eliminates nonspecific agglutination by lectins and allows for direct visualization of colonies and their specific removal and subsequent cloning in liquid phase. Optimal growth and production of colonies greater than 40-cell size require 3 to 9 days. Individual cells can be identified on the basis of E rosette formation and absence of surface immunoglobulin or ability to phagocytize latex particles. Moreover, proliferation is inhibited by antithymocyte but not anti-B cell sera and can be demonstrated with peripheral blood T and MOLT-4 cells, but not with B or Raji cells. Finally, colony formation is not enhanced by the presence of 2-mercaptoethanol. The clonal proliferation of human T lymphocytes has wide application in the study of both antigen recognition and lymphocyte alterations in specific diseases.