Physiological Action of Uranium Salts, 7 



ritis. The endothelial cells of the malphigian tufts were swollen 

 and proliferated, so that frequently the tuft of vessels was com- 

 pressed by these proliferating cells and by the deti'itus and infiltrat- 

 ing pus cells. In the convoluted tubules the cells were swollen, 

 granular and very much broken down, while the lumen of the tubes 

 themselves was often filled with detritus and cast matter. In the 

 straight tubules, the cells were also occasionally broken down and 

 frequently swollen and granular. The stroma was found in places 

 infiltrated with pus cells. Stomach and intestines were normal. 



Further data regarding the excretion of albumin and sugar, 

 through the action of uranium, are given in the description of the 

 toxic action of this substance. 



The toxic action of uranium. 

 Our experiments on the toxic action of uranium have been confined 

 wholly to the action of pure uranyl nitrate on rabbits, nine in number. 

 The animals were confined in cages with proper outlets for collecting 

 the excreta, and were fed on grass, spinach, and other green food. 



Experiment I. 



Large, vigorous buck. In this experiment small doses of uranium, 

 gradually increased, were given in gelatin capsules, and the urine 

 examined each day for albumin and sugar. The accompanying table 

 gives the details of dose and the amounts of sugar and albumin 

 found. 



Outside of changes in the urine there were no indications of toxic 

 action until on the ninth day, when a slight weakness was noticeable, 

 especially in the hind legs. After this, the animal gradually grew 

 weaker and emaciated, with total loss of appetite and with eyes dull 

 and Avatery. On the 8th of June, a large quantity of thick tenacious 

 mucus mixed with pin-head faeces was passed. Motion of all kinds 

 was difficult. On the 9lh of June, the animal could not sit up and 

 during poi'tions of the day there appeared to be paralysis of both 

 hintl legs. Later in the day the power of motion returned, and when 

 placed on his back the rabbit could kick out feebly with both legs. 

 On the next day his weakness and dullness were still more pro- 

 nounced, and when stirred from a squatting posture he trembled vio- 

 lently. His eyes were watery and glazed, with the pupils widely 

 dilated. On touching the cornea he did not offer to close the eye- 

 lids, but endeavored to withdraw his head. All jjower of vision was 

 apparently lost. Later, he lost the power of coordination in his legs, 

 was unable to make any coordinate movements, though still retaining 



