A comparison of plasma (pseudo) cholinesterase and erythrocyte (true) cholinesterase activity in 16 male childhood schizophrenic patients and 16 male nonpsychotic hospitalized controls revealed no significant differences between the two groups. (Author)

Relying upon grant-supported salaries, many medical schools have greatly expanded their faculties; but if new funding devices are not discovered, retrenchment will occur. Physicians, who are trained to look at the big picture, must continue to be an essential element in the biomedical research team. (MLW)

The regulations prescribed by the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare regarding human subjects research are examined including their effects on research procedures. (MM)

This study investigated whether blood plasma levels of pro-opiomelanocortin-derived (POMC) peptides, beta-endorphin-like activity, adrenocorticotrophic hormone, and adrenal cortisol immediately after self injurious behavior (SIB) episodes predicted subsequent response to an opiate blocker in 10 patients with mental retardation. Results suggest…

Analyzes the currency of the information found on SilverPlatter's Medline CD-ROM. Results show that the currency of information can vary tremendously. Priority level, periodicity, and prior database were found to have a low but highly significant influence on currency. Six tables and nine figures show results. (Author/AEF)

At present, there is no specific recommendation for sterilization of extracted human teeth used in dental technique courses. The purpose of this study was to determine whether autoclaving would be effective in the sterilization of extracted teeth without compromising the characteristics that make their use in clinical simulations desirable. (MLW)

Clinical investigations have established that an aggressive approach to lowering cholesterol levels in coronary heart disease patients is warranted. This article describes optimal goals and discusses the role of diet, exercise, and medication in plasma lipids management. (IAH)

Uses citation analysis to study the professional status and influence of the editors-in-chief of 769 medical journals. Finds that these editors-in-chief are, at least in their own specialties, not necessarily experts but authorities. (SR)

Research on the structure, growth, development, and loss of hair in humans is reviewed. Studies designed to investigate methods of hair restoration using minoxidil and other compounds and treatments are discussed. (CW)

This study of nine young men compared the energy expended, substrates used, and perception of effort from brisk walking and jogging at the same target heart rates. Jogging utilized more total energy and fat energy than walking and was perceived as less strenuous. Oxygen pulse was higher during jogging. (Author/SM)