[Chronic osteomyelitis of the clavicle]

From 1978 to 1987, 139 children were treated for osteomyelitis at our institution, among them 6 with osteomyelitis of the clavicle. All six patients presented with a primary chronic osteomyelitis. Three children sustained a trauma anamnestically. Pathohistological examinations revealed a chronic, unspecific inflammation in all cases. Immobilisation was achieved by means of a DESAULT-cast or an abduction splint for 7 to 36 weeks, antibiotics (clindamycin) were given for 6 to 55 weeks, starting with intravenous administration for 1 weeks maximally. All patients were primarily operated on, mostly undergoing curettage of affected regions or partial resection. After 4 to 10 years, 4 children are well and without evidence of recurrence, 2 children are still under treatment for recurrences.

Searching computer databases from your office

Microcomputers, and a new generation of on-line systems designed for the end-user, now make it possible for physicians to search MEDLINE and a variety of other databases in the convenience of their offices or homes. This article explains some basics of online searching, describes capabilities and options to consider when selecting a system, and identifies hardware and software needed to adapt a micro for online searching. A chart comparing system features and costs, and providing information on where to go for more information is also included.

Phosphorylation of rhodopsin as a possible mechanism of adaptation

Light-induced phosphorylation of rhodopsin has been extensively studied by a number of investigators from a biochemical point of view. However, little is known about the physiological function of this reaction. The slow rates measured for phosphorylation and dephosphorylation suggest that it may be involved in visual adaptation rather than in excitation. This paper presents biochemical data obtained from phosphorylation experiments in isolated photoreceptor membranes as well as in the physiological system of whole retinas and living animals. An attempt is made to compare the phosphorylation reaction with visual adaptation hypotheses taken from the electrophysiological literature. Finally, effects of cyclic nucleotide metabolism on the sensitivity of photoreceptors are presented and discussed.

The rate of rhodopsin phosphorylation in isolated rentinas of frog and cattle

Phosphorylation of rhodopsin has been measured in isolated retinas incubated with 32P-phosphate under physiological conditions. The half-time of the light-induced phosphorylation was found to be approximately 2 min with frog retinas at 21 degrees C, and in the order of 1--2 min with cattle retinas at 36 degrees C. It is suggested by this slow rate that the phosphorylation reaction is not directly involved in the chain of events which lead from absorption of a photon to excitation of the photoreceptor cells but may perhaps have a regulatory function in controlling light/dark adaptation.