Serum calcium, inorganic phosphorus and magnesium were determined in 282 Nigerian women comprising 21 3 pregnant women, 37 non-pregnant controls, and 32 postpartum women. There was very little change in the serum calcium levels throughout pregnancy; the slight reduction which occurred during the 8th and 9th months was not statistically significant. There was a significant reduction in the serum concentrations of inorganic phosphorus and magnesium during the 8th and 9th months of gestation; the levels of both minerals rose to non-pregnant levels at term.

Serum copper concentrations were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry in 102 schizophrenic patients and 95 healthy control subjects. The serum copper concentrations were significantly higher in the schizophrenic patients than in the normal control subjects. The average serum copper in schizophrenic females was higher than in schizophrenic males, but the difference was not statistically significant.

he was taking a minimum of 256 units daily. Thereafter the dosage dropped progressively, but seven weeks later he still needed up to 188 units daily. He was then transferred to Actrapid MC. In three days his insulin requirement fell by 36 % to 102 units daily. He was stabilised on twice daily Actrapid MC in a total dose of 112-124 units daily and remained well controlled, with a mean mid-morning blood sugar level of 6-1 mmol/l (110 mg/ 100 ml). His

No abstract

Summary Serum copper levels were determined by atomic absorption spectroscopy in 224 Nigerian women attending the postpartum Family Planning Clinic of University College Hospital, Ibadan. Eighty‐seven of the women had been fitted with the Lippes intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD), 28 were taking Ovral 28, and 65 Norlestrin Fe. Forty‐four women attending for the first time served as normal controls. The mean serum copper levels in the women taking oral contraceptive agents were 144 μg./l00 ml. for the group taking Ovral 28, and 142 μg./100 ml. for those taking Norlestrin Fe. These values were similar, but significantly greater than the mean values for the control group and for the group fitted with IUCDs which were also similar. Compared to values reported in non‐Nigerians these values were all much lower and appear to be related to a reduction in appropriate binding and transport proteins in individuals in this environment.