efore choosing a health plan, make sure it includes the first choice in health care. Research On Fetal Brain Damage 0 I • NO New ways to reduce brain dam- age in fetuses whose growth is stunted due to placental mal- function may emerge from an an- imal study at the Weizmann Institute, to be reported in this month's issue of the Journal of Neurochemistry (Vol. 63, #6). The study deals with PM' (platelet-activating factor), a sub- stance ordinarily produced by cells of the immune system and associated with vascular circu- lation, as well as with nerve dif- ferentiation and gene expression in the brain. The researchers — Professor Ephraim Yavin and doctoral student Baruch Ku- nievsky of the Institute's de- partment of neurobiology — found that PAF is produced in excess in the fetal brain whose maternal blood supply is cur- tailed. They also showed that fol- lowing its synthesis, PAF stimulates the release of throm- boxane, a vasoconstricting sub- stance believed to exacerbate damage to brain tissue and ac- celerate its breakdown. The DMC Health Care Centers. When comparing health plans, here's a comforting fact extended hours at our Novi and Livonia locations. So when you might like choosing a to know: medical The DMC plan, Health Care consider Centers par- ticipate in most major HMOs, PPOs and health insurances including Leaves of the Ginkgo biloba tree prevent the action of PAF. - In addition, Professor Yavin and Dr. Kunievsky demonstrat- ed that the fetal brain possesses receptors which, when triggered by PAF, activate the release of intracellular calcium that dis- rupts brain metabolism and stimulates generation of harm- ful free radicals. The scientists also found that a derivative orig- inally extracted from the leaves of the Ginkgo biloba tree, known as BN52021, prevents the action of PAF, thereby exerting a pro- tective influence. The drug can be administered prophylactical- ly via the amniotic fluid in the pregnant animal. "Although it's too early to know for sure," Professor Yavin says, "our study indicates that it may be possible to reduce the harmful effects of PM' with drugs that block its receptors or prevent the rise in intracellular calcium." This research extends a study by Professor Yavin — in collab- oration with Professor Shaul Harel of the Tel Aviv Medical Center and Tel Aviv University — on strategies for early diag- nosis of circulatory problems as- sociated with fetal growth retardation in expectant human mothers. This research was supported by a grant from the Gulton Foun- dation, New York. ❑ And, we're open on Saturdays and offer Health Alliance Plan (HAP). Of course, this isn't the only advantage we provide. As a part of The Detroit you the biggest benefit of all. The DMC Health Care Centers. For more information, call any of our locations. You'll see how easy it is to get the right care, right here. Medical Center-Wayne State University Wayne State University system, our physicians arc able to treat Health Care Centers patients with some of the most advanced medical techniques. Also, DMC Health • Livonia DMC Health Care Center 17940 Farmington Road (313) 523-6800 • Novi DMC Health Care Center 41935 W. 12 Mile Road (810) 347-8000 • Northwest Detroit DMC Health Care Center Care Centers offer primary and urgent care 22341 W. 8 Mile Road (313) 592-3500 as well as more than 30 medical specialties. 27207 Lahser Road (810) 827-2160 o Nor: - nib am N Opening Soon... firm Fitness & Tanning S e one that gives Come See What's in Store! FABULOUS SHOPS IN ONE PERFECT LOCATION! Cobo Cleaners Orchard Lake Road • North of Maple • West Bloomfield • Southfield DMC Health Care Center Our Private Trainers re the BEST! a WORKOUT CP 'Exercise Studio • Telegraph at Maple • 855-1033 INTRODUCTORY OFFER -- CALL SHARON