Urinary Ca2+ and the regulation of K+ secretion in toad bladder by neurohypophyseal hormones.

We measured net K+ fluxes in the isolated toad urinary bladder to determine whether neurohypophyseal hormones control K+ secretion in this tissue. To determine if the pathway involved in K+ secretion is similar to a Ca(2+)-blockable alkali cation channel in the apical membrane of toad bladder, previously described in electrophysiological studies, we measured K+ fluxes in either the presence or absence of Ca2+ in the mucosal bathing solution. Oxytocin enhanced K+ secretion in both cases; however, the enhancement was markedly greater in the absence of mucosal Ca2+.

Percutaneous phenol block of the musculocutaneous nerve to control elbow flexor spasticity.

Twenty-three extremities in 17 brain-injured adults were prospectively studied to evaluate the effectiveness of percutaneous phenol blocks of the musculocutaneous nerve in controlling spasticity of the biceps and brachialis muscles. Twenty-one (93%) of the extremities improved after the initial injection. The mean resting position decreased from 120 degrees of flexion to 69 degrees.

Tibial shaft fractures treated with functional braces. Experience with 780 fractures.

We have reviewed our recent results with functional bracing of tibial shaft fractures in adults in order to define its role in management. We also analysed several parameters of these fractures to discover those which influence healing. A total of 780 tibial fractures treated in prefabricated functional braces were followed to union; shortening of less than 10 mm and angulation of less than 5 degrees in any plane were our parameters for successful treatment.

Role of prostaglandin release in the response of tight epithelia to Ca2+ ionophores.

We have studied the effects of the Ca2+ ionophores A23187 and ionomycin on ion transport across amphibian skin and urinary bladder. Both A23187 and ionomycin stimulated transepithelial Na+ transport across the skin. Ionomycin also markedly increased the conductance of an amiloride-insensitive pathway.