On the presence of radium in some carcinomatous tumours

Abstract

In another place I brought forward evidence that acceleration of leak occurs when carcinoma tissue, after extraction with acetone or with ether, and subsequently with water, is introduced within an electroscope. The results have been criticised in respect of the differences observed, and of their possible explanation by variations in the capacity of the electroscope occasioned by introducing the various substances within it. To meet the last criticism, an electroscope of constant small capacity was designed, which essentially consists of a closed metal box, divided horizontally by a wire grating. The upper part of the box contains the insulated gold leaf, and the various substances can be introduced into the lower part of the instrument through a well-fitting door. Various non-malignant and malignant tissues, after extraction and in a dry, finely divided state, were then examined as to their possible influence on the leak. The majority of these were without effect outside the range of experimental error, but certain of them afforded evidence of acceleration. Specimens from both classes were then weighed, boiled with 10 c. c. hydrochloric acid and distilled water in a flask with side-piece, sealed, and set aside for four weeks. At the end of that time, the gas given off on vigorous boiling for five minutes was passed into an emanation electroscope in the usual manner and the leak determined.