bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BOUND AND FREE CORTICOSTEROID IN THE PLASMA OF TWO SUBSPECIES OF DEER MICE (PEROMYSCUS MANICULATUS) AFTER EXPOSURE TO A LOW AMBIENT TEMPERATURE
Authors: ELEFTHERIOU B. E.
Published: December 2008

Paper and thin-layer chromatography were used to identify corticosterone as the only glucocorticosteroid in two subspecies of deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus bairdii and P. m. gracilis). Free and bound corticosterone levels in plasma were determined fluorimetrically in both subspecies after exposure to cold (2 ± 0·5°) for 15 days. Initially, there was a significant rise in free and bound corticosterone in the plasma after cold exposure with return to the levels before cold exposure within 3 days in P. m. bairdii and 10 days in P. m. gracilis.

The differential response to cold by P. m. gracilis is discussed in terms of a possible shift in pituitary adrenocorticotrophin (ACTH) and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels and decreased adrenal output. In general it is concluded that subspecies bairdii possesses a more sensitive pituitary-adrenal system than gracilis, and that the former has also greater ability to acclimatization to cold than the latter.
ULTRASTRUCTURE OF NEUROSECRETORY CELLS IN THE SUPRAOPTIC NUCLEUS OF THE DOG AND RAT
Authors: SLOPER J. C. , BATESON RACHEL G.
Published: December 2008

The hypothalamo-neurohypophysial systems of the dog and rat have been investigated with the electron microscope. The best preparations were obtained from anaesthetized animals cooled to about 7°.

Neuronal cell bodies in the supraoptic nuclei of the dog were characterized both by their size, by their occasional proximity to the capillary basement membranes, and by their content of electron-dense, membrane-bound inclusions measuring between 750 and 3000 å in diameter. Similar inclusions, measuring between 800 and 2400 å in diameter, characterized nerve terminals in the infundibular process. These inclusions are the same size as those found to be associated with high antidiuretic activity in samples taken from the posterior pituitary and from the hypothalamus of the dog, and could therefore be the vehicles of antidiuretic hormone. It has been calculated that in the dog these inclusions, if they contain antidiuretic hormone, are numerous enough in the neuronal cell body for the latter to constitute the only site of hormone synthesis.

Similar secretory neurones were found in the supraoptic nucleus of the rat. They were more difficult to identify than in the dog, for they contained fewer inclusions of the size which filled nerve terminals in the infundibular process.
THE INFLUENCE OF HUMAN SERUM ON THE ACTIVITY OF HUMAN CHORIONIC GONADOTROPHIN IN MALE RANA RIDIBUNDA
Authors: INSLER V. , LUNENFELD B.
Published: December 2008

The effect of human serum as vehicle in the bioassay of human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) has been investigated in male Rana ridibunda. It was shown that undiluted serum may depress or increase the activity of HCG, while diluted serum may have no influence on the activity. The influence of the serum depends on the time lapse between the administration of the hormone and the measurement of its effect in the test animal, as well as on the dilution of the serum.

In the light of the results presented, it is suggested that when serum HCG is assayed in male R. ridibunda, the standard preparation of HCG should be dissolved in serum and the frogs should be examined for spermiation 5 and 12 hr. after the injection. If, however, the standard preparation is dissolved in saline, only diluted serum should be used in the test.
RESTORATION OF LACTATION IN RATS WITH HYPOTHALAMIC LESIONS WHICH INHIBIT LACTATION
Authors: AVERILL R. L. W.
Published: December 2008

Rats bearing bilateral thermal lesions placed lateral to the paraventricular nuclei were unable to lactate. Replacement therapy with prolactin alone induced partial lactation after subsequent pregnancies, provided the hormone was given for 4–8 days before or after parturition. Once established, these induced lactations persisted despite cessation of hormone injections.
3β-HYDROXYSTEROID DEHYDROGENASE IN THE ADRENAL GLAND AND PLACENTA
Authors: BAILLIE A. H. , CAMERON E. H. D. , GRIFFITHS K. , HART D. McK.
Published: December 2008

3β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity was studied histochemically in human, monkey, and rat adrenal glands and in human placentae. Tissue sections were incubated separately with each of the following substrates: (1) 3β-hydroxypregn-5-en-20-one (pregnenolone); (2) sodium 3β-sulphoxypregn-5-en-20-one (pregnenolonesulphate); (3) 3β-acetoxypregn-5-en-20 one (pregnenoloneacetate); (4) 3β,16α-dihydroxypregn-5-en-20-one (16α-hydroxypregnenolone); (5) 3β,17α-dihydroxypregn-5-en-20-one (17α-hydroxypregnenolone); (6) ammonium 3β-sulphoxy-17α-hydroxypregn-5-en-20-one (17α-hydroxypregnenolone ammonium sulphate); (7) 3β-hydroxyandrost-5-en-17-one (DHA); (8) 3β-sulphoxyandrost-5-en-17-one (DHA sulphate); (9) 3β-acetoxyandrost-5-en-17-one (DHA acetate); (10) androst-5-ene-3β, 17β-diol (androstenediol).

The histochemical results obtained with pregnenolone and DHA as substrates resemble those described by other workers. Using pregnenolone sulphate and 17α-hydroxypregnenolone sulphate, a strong histochemical reaction with diformazan deposition was found in the zona fasciculata of the adrenals of all species and in the placental syntrophoblast. With DHA sulphate an extremely weak histochemical reaction was obtained with the adrenal zona fasciculata, monoformazan only being deposited. The syntrophoblast, however, showed intense 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity when incubated with DHA sulphate. These results accord with recent findings regarding the secretion and metabolism of 3β-sulphoxysteroids.

A strong histochemical reaction was also obtained in both adrenal and placental tissues using 17α-hydroxypregnenolone, 16α-hydroxypregnenolone, androstenediol, pregnenolone acetate, and DHA acetate. These steroids have not previously been described as substrates for the histochemical demonstration of 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase in the adrenal or placenta.
A SIMPLE METHOD FOR IMPROVING THE SPECIFICITY OF THE FLUORIMETRIC DETERMINATION OF ADRENAL CORTICOSTEROIDS IN HUMAN PLASMA
Authors: SPENCER-PEET J. , DALY J. R. , SMITH VIVIEN
Published: December 2008

Extracts of human plasma in ethanolic sulphuric acid contain two groups of fluorogens. The fluorescence of one of these increases linearly with time, while the other gives a constant fluorescence between 8 and 20 min. after extraction into the acid mixture. Measurement of the rate of increase in fluorescence of the plasma extracts permits the proportion of the total fluorescence due to the stable component to be calculated.

The component with constant fluorescence probably consists entirely of cortisol and corticosterone. This finding has been used to improve the specificity of a simple method for the determination of adrenal corticosteroids in human plasma. This improved method is described and assessed, and a range of normal values is reported.
SOME OBSERVATIONS ON THE ULTRASTRUCTURE OF THE ADENOHYPOPHYSIS OF THE RABBIT
Authors: YOUNG B. A. , FOSTER C. L. , CAMERON E.
Published: December 2008

The ultrastructure of the adenohypophysis of the rabbit is described preliminary to reporting changes after experimental procedures. Fixation by perfusing with gluteraldehyde enabled selected regions of the gland to be removed with accuracy. Separate descriptions of the pars distalis proper, zona tuberalis, pars tuberalis and pars intermedia are therefore included.

In the pars distalis proper four types of granular cell were recognized although their function cannot be accurately determined. For convenience, therefore, they have been designated 1, 2, 3 and 4. In addition a fifth type of cell (type 5) is described which is also present in the other areas. This cell, as well as having possible phagocytic functions, appears to be concerned in the formation of a perivascular channel.

Two types of cell are recognized in the zona tuberalis, which are similar in appearance to the 3 and 4 cells of the pars distalis, although not necessarily identical in function.

The characteristic cells of the pars tuberalis are rich in cytoplasmic RNA and contain large numbers of intracellular fibrils. It is suggested that the ribosomes are concerned in the synthesis of a sedentary protein which may take the form of the microfibrils.

The pars intermedia contains a predominant cell type with large granules of varying density. The relationship of these granules to the specific hormone is discussed.
FURTHER OBSERVATIONS ON THE OVARIAN ASCORBIC ACID DEPLETION TEST FOR LUTEINIZING HORMONE
Authors: BELL E. T. , LORAINE J. A. , MUKERJI S. , VISUTAKUL PACHARA
Published: December 2008

A modification of the ovarian ascorbic acid depletion (OAAD) method for luteinizing hormone (LH) is described in which the standard and test materials are administered by the intraperitoneal rather than by the intravenous route.

The potency of NIH-LH when administered i.p. and i.v. was the same and the slopes of the log dose-response curves for the two routes of administration were very similar.

Studies on the effect of seasonal factors on the OAAD method showed that both the slopes of the log dose-response curves and the absolute levels of ascorbic acid varied from one assay to another. The necessity for using a standard preparation in all assays of LH activity by the OAAD method is emphasized.
THE URINARY EXCRETION OF GONADOTROPHINS BY SHEEP: THE EFFECT OF GONADECTOMY ON THE EXCRETION BY MALE AND FEMALE SHEEP
Authors: SYMINGTON R. B.
Published: December 2008

The effects of gonadectomy on the urinary excretion of gonadotrophins were studied in male and female sheep.

(1) The most striking effect in both sexes of bilateral gonadectomy was a rapid and marked increase in the excretion of FSH.

(2) The results of unilateral gonadectomy were inconclusive.

(3) With one exception, the absolute and relative changes in the rates of excretion of FSH were greater in male than in female sheep.
THE ANTIDIURETIC EFFECT OF INTRAVENOUS AND INTRACAROTID INFUSION OF CALCIUM CHLORIDE IN HYDRATED RATS
Authors: THORN N. A. , SMITH M. W. , SKADHAUGE E.
Published: December 2008

Calcium chloride was infused intravenously as a slightly hypotonic solution into hydrated rats anaesthetized with ethanol and Inactin. Doses of 12–24 mg. Ca2+/kg. caused a transitory antidiuretic effect during which time antidiuretic material was excreted in the urine. Intracarotid infusion of calcium chloride towards the head produced a more pronounced effect than intravenous infusion of the same amount. The same doses of calcium chloride failed to have an antidiuretic effect in rats with diabetes insipidus.

These findings are discussed in relation to the hypothesis of Douglas & Poisner that calcium ions play an essential role in the release of vasopressin from the posterior pituitary gland.
THE EFFECT OF GROWTH HORMONE AND PROLACTIN PREPARATIONS ON THE CONTROL BY INTERSTITIAL CELL-STIMULATING HORMONE OF UPTAKE OF 65Zn BY THE RAT DORSOLATERAL PROSTATE
Authors: GUNN S. A. , GOULD THELMA C. , ANDERSON W. A. D.
Published: December 2008

Five pituitary hormones: follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), growth hormone and prolactin, were tested for their capacity to alter the control by interstitial cell-stimulating hormone (ICSH) of the uptake of 65Zn by the dorsolateral prostate gland of the mature hypophysectomized Sprague-Dawley rat. Only prolactin and growth hormone produced significant augmentation of the response to ICSH. Contamination with growth hormone was apparently not responsible for the augmentation of ICSH activity brought about by the NIH-prolactin preparation used. NIH-prolactin and a highly purified preparation provided by Dr C. H. Li were shown to be equally effective in their capacity to augment the 65Zn-uptake response produced by ICSH. Augmentation was detectable with total doses of prolactin as low as 10–30 μg. (0·21–0·63 i.u.). Prolactin caused an augmentation of testosterone activity on uptake of 65Zn in the hypophysectomized and castrated rat, indicating an effect of prolactin on the prostate that is not mediated by the testis. NIH-growth hormone was not as effective as the prolactin preparations in enhancing ICSH activity, but in sufficient doses produced a significant increase in the 65Zn-uptake response to ICSH. These studies showed also that the uptake of 65Zn of the dorsolateral prostate was a more sensitive and more consistent parameter than glandular weight for the detection of augmentation of ICSH response by growth hormone or prolactin preparations.
THE POTENTIATING ACTION OF MAGNESIUM AND MANGANESE ON THE OXYTOCIC EFFECT OF SOME OXYTOCIN ANALOGUES
Authors: BENTLEY P. J.
Published: December 2008

Analogues of oxytocin contract the rat uterus in vitro more strongly in the presence of 0·5 mm-Mg2+ than in the absence of the ion. This effect can be referred to an increased 'affinity' of the hormone for its receptors. Neither Ca2+ (1 mm), Sr2+ (0·5 mm) nor lower concentrations of Mg2+ (0·1 mm) have this effect. Manganese mm) was more effective than Mg2+ (0·5 mm); the former potentiated the action of 3-valine oxytocin 9·9 times; that of 8-arginine oxytocin 3·3 times and that of 8-isoleucine oxytocin 1·3 times while 0·5 mm-Mg2+ potentiated the same analogues 5·7, 1·9 and 1·1 times, respectively. The results are discussed in relation to the mechanism of action of oxytocin.
OESTROGEN AND THE DECIDUAL CELL REACTION OF IMPLANTATION IN MICE
Authors: FINN C. A.
Published: December 2008

Two non-traumatic methods for the induction of deciduomata were tested in the pseudopregnant mouse. The intra-uterine injection of arachis oil was found to be very effective, but the intraperitoneal injection of pyrathiazine was completely ineffective.

Oil and trauma were then compared as decidual stimuli in ovariectomized pseudopregnant mice maintained on exogenous progesterone. When ovariectomy was performed on the afternoon of day 4 of pseudopregnancy both stimuli were effective. When the ovaries were removed on the afternoon of day 3, trauma was still effective but oil no longer induced deciduomata. However, oil retained its effectiveness if 0·025 μg. of oestradiol was injected subcutaneously about 7 hr. before the injection of the oil. It is suggested that the hormonal requirements for decidual cell-induction by oil are similar to those for implantation and that oestrogen is necessary to permit the initial reaction between the oil (or the blastocyst) and the surface of the epithelial cells. Traumatic induction does not require oestrogen because it does not simulate this reaction.
SIMPLE PREPARATIONS OF 5β-PREGNANE-3α,17α,20α-TRIOL AND 5β-PREGNANE-3α,11β,17α,20α-TETROL
Authors: THORNTON C. B. , ROGERS SYLVIA , KLYNE W.
Published: December 2008

5β-Pregnane-3α,17α,20α-triol and 5β-pregnane-3α,11β,17α,20α-tetrol (commonly called 'pregnanetriol' and 'pregnanetetrol') have been prepared by reduction with lithium aluminium hydride of the corresponding 20-ketone and 11,20-diketone, respectively, and separation of the products by partition chromatography on a Celite column. In the latter case, the four isomeric tetrols were separated completely using a partition column treated with boric acid. The behaviour on paper chromatograms of the triols and tetrols is discussed.
THE ESTIMATION OF POLAR STEROIDS IN LIQUOR AMNII
Authors: LAMBERT M. , PENNINGTON G. W.
Published: December 2008

6β-Hydroxycortisol (Compound 1), 6β,17α,20β,21-tetrahydroxypregn-4-ene-3,11-dione (Compound 3), and 6β,11β,17α,20β,21-pentahydroxy-pregn-4-en-3-one (Compound 4) were determined in liquor amnii obtained from women in the third trimester of pregnancy. The analytical method involved paper chromatography, followed by visual estimation of the fluorescence induced by treatment with sodium hydroxide.

In normal pregnancy the following average values (μg./100 ml. liquor amnii) were found: Compound 1, 4·3; Compound 3, 3·1; Compound 4, 0·8. Statistically significant deviations from normal values were observed in pregnancies associated with Rhesus incompatibility, diabetes mellitus, anencephaly and idiopathic hydramnios.

Explanations for these differences have been examined.
THE EFFECT OF ADRENOCORTICOTROPHIN ON THE NUCLEIC ACID METABOLISM OF THE RAT ADRENAL GLAND
Authors: IMRIE R. C. , RAMAIAH T. R. , ANTONI F. , HUTCHISON W. C.
Published: December 2008

Treatment of female rats with adrenocorticotrophin (ACTH) increased the RNA content of the adrenal glands progressively during a period of 3 days, the DNA content increased only after prolonged administration. By contrast, ACTH caused a decrease in the uptake of [32P]orthophosphate into the total RNA of the gland and into most of the RNA fractions of the subcellular components.

A method of analysis for RNA and DNA based on the Schmidt-Thannhauser procedure has been evolved which eliminates extraction of nucleic acid by lipid solvents.
THE SYNCHRONY OF OESTRUS IN MICE: RELATIVE ROLES OF THE MALE AND FEMALE ENVIRONMENTS
Authors: MARSDEN H. M. , BRONSON F. H.
Published: December 2008

The effects were evaluated of exposing female C57BL/6J mice to different male and female environments before pairing on attainment of oestrus after pairing. In Expt. I, grouped female mice were exposed for 2 days to male urine of the same strain, a different strain (CBA/J), a different species (Peromyscus maniculatus bairdii), or to female urine of the same strain. Male urine of the same strain accelerated attainment of oestrus; exposure to male urine of a different species did not. Results on the significance of strain specificity were inconclusive. In Expt. II, grouped females were isolated in clean cages for 2 days before pairing, with and without exposure to male urine. A high degree of synchrony was obtained on the first night after pairing in both groups (about 60% of all females which mated in 4 days). Apparently, synchrony of oestrus in grouped females is as much, or more, a result of a release from the oestrus-suppressing effects of crowding (in all-female groups) as of stimulation by the odour of the male (male urine). Synchrony after pairing was also found in two albino strains of mice (SWR/J and SJL/J) which had been reared together in small groups.
OBSERVATIONS ON THE ANTITHYROID AND GOITROGENIC ACTIVITY OF MILK
Authors: BROADHEAD G. D. , PEARSON I. B. , WILSON G. M.
Published: December 2008

Fresh and dried milk samples obtained during 1960–64 have been examined for antithyroid and goitrogenic activity in rats. In acute experiments milk caused a depression in the uptake of 131I. Samples taken during the spring months were most active in this respect. The iodine content of milk was not responsible for this depression. Calcium and fat in the amounts present in milk caused a decrease in uptake of 131I and the calcium content of milk was highest in the spring. In experiments involving feeding fresh or dried milk for 3 months neither thyroid enlargement nor interference with thyroid hormone synthesis was produced regularly though occasional samples caused some minor changes. There was no consistent evidence for goitrogenic activity in milk.
THE TIMING OF THE NEURAL STIMULUS WHICH LEADS TO OVULATION IN THE SHEEP
Authors: ROBERTSON H. A. , RAKHA A. M.
Published: December 2008

Ovulation in the sheep could be blocked by chlorpromazine used as a neural blocking agent. The neural stimulus leading to the release of sufficient gonadotrophin to cause ovulation was shown to occur within 2 hr. after the onset of oestrus.
AN IMPROVED ASSAY FOR PARATHYROID HORMONE, OBSERVING THE RISE OF SERUM CALCIUM IN THYROPARATHYROIDECTOMIZED RATS
Authors: CAUSTON ANN , CHORLTON BERNICE , ROSE G. ALAN
Published: December 2008

Previous methods of assay of parathyroid hormone have been reviewed and none has been found to be entirely satisfactory.

A new assay has been evolved in which the ability of the test substance to raise the serum calcium in rats has been measured as before, but in which combined removal of the thyroid and parathyroid glands, by blunt dissection, has been used. The range of the new assay is 2–65 U.S.P. units.

The additional removal of the thyroid gland led to a considerable reduction in the scatter of the results and the new assay method is statistically acceptable.
THE EFFECTS OF INSULIN, GLUCAGON AND ADRENOCORTICOTROPHIC HORMONE ON THE PLASMA GLUCOSE AND FREE FATTY ACIDS OF THE DOMESTIC FOWL
Authors: HEALD P. J. , McLACHLAN P. M. , ROOKLEDGE K. A.
Published: December 2008

The level of plasma free fatty acids (FFA) in both laying and immature non-laying hens was not markedly decreased by intravenously injected amounts of glucose sufficient to double the level of plasma glucose for 15–30 min. This was true for fasting and for fed birds. Adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) given i.v. to laying birds produced a definite increase in the levels of plasma FFA and glucose in doses of 60 i.u./kg. Daily doses of long-acting ACTH given i.m. for 3 days to laying birds produced a marked increase in plasma glucose accompanied by a pronounced fall in plasma FFA. Insulin markedly lowered the plasma glucose level in both mature and immature birds and caused a large and immediate increase in plasma FFA. Glucagon also induced a marked increase in plasma FFA accompanied by a rise in plasma glucose. The effects of insulin and glucagon were not abolished by pretreating the birds with reserpine or hexamethonium bromide. It is concluded that the effect of glucagon on plasma FFA is probably a result of a direct action on avian adipose tissue and that insulin may promote a similar response by an increased release of glucagon from the pancreas.
INTERRELATION BETWEEN HUMAN CHORIONIC GONADOTROPHIN INHIBITORY ACTIVITY IN PLASMA AND URINE AND THE RATE OF URINARY GONADOTROPHIN EXCRETION
Authors: YAMASHITA I. , HILLMAN JANET C. , REISS M.
Published: December 2008

The interrelation of urinary and plasma human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) inhibitors and the urinary excretion rate of gonadotrophin was studied in ten physically and mentally retarded young males.

It was found that the HCG-inhibitory principles had no effect when assayed against the boys' own urinary gonadotrophins.

The excretion rate of urinary gonadotrophin was found to be independent of the presence of urinary or plasma HCG-inhibitors, which in turn were not related to the boys' physical development.

Certain similarities between the properties of the plasma and urinary HCG-inhibitor and deproteinized pineal extracts are discussed.
GROWTH-PROMOTING AND LUTEOTROPHIC ACTIVITIES OF HUMAN GROWTH HORMONE
Authors: HARTREE ANNE STOCKELL , KOVAČIĆ NADA , THOMAS MARJORIE
Published: December 2008

Human growth hormone prepared by Raben's (1959) method was chromatographed on various ion exchangers and the resulting fractions were assayed for growth-promoting, luteotrophic and immunological activity. A critical quantitative study of the biological activities of the fractions showed that there were significant differences between their ratios of growth-promoting to luteotrophic potency. The luteotrophic activity of some of the preparations was slightly higher than that of the 2nd International Ovine Prolactin Standard.
THE ACCUMULATION OF MATERNAL PHOSPHATE IN THE BRAIN, LIVER AND BONE OF FOETAL AND NEWBORN RABBITS FROM NORMAL AND THYROID-DEFICIENT MOTHERS
Authors: MYANT N. B. , GAMBLE J.
Published: December 2008

If pregnant rabbits are treated with methylthiouracil from the 10th to 44th day after conception, there is little effect on the growth or phosphorus content of brain, liver or bone of the foetuses.

In newborn animals from mothers treated with methylthiouracil there is a marked decrease in the rate of growth and of deposition of P in bone, a small decrease in brain and little or no effect in liver.

The concentration of total P in the milk is not affected by treating the mother with methylthiouracil.

Inorganic 32P was injected into the mothers 24 days after conception, and the distribution of 32P in liver and bone and in brain phospholipid followed from the 29th to 44th day after conception. The results suggest that more than half the P incorporated into brain phospholipids during the first 14 days of post-natal life is derived from stores of P in the tissues of the newborn animal acquired in utero.
AUGMENTATION BY CHLORMADINONE OF THE UTERINE WEIGHT RESPONSE TO HUMAN CHORIONIC GONADOTROPHIN IN INTACT IMMATURE RATS
Authors: HARPER M. J. K.
Published: December 2008

Administration of chlormadinone, an orally active progestational agent without significant oestrogenic activity, to intact immature female rats did not affect either ovarian or uterine weight significantly compared with controls. A single injection of human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) caused a 73 % increase in uterine weight in 24 hr. over the control value. This dose significantly increased ovarian weight and although it caused some stimulation of follicular development, ovulation during this time did not occur.

When animals were treated with chlormadinone for 8 days, and received HCG on the 8th day, uterine weight was 170% greater than in the controls and 56% greater than with HCG alone. The uterine weight produced was similar to that found in animals treated with mestranol, a potent oestrogen, and HCG. In ovariectomized animals HCG did not affect uterine weight, while the small increase produced by chlormadinone was unaltered when HCG also was given.

Mechanisms are discussed by which this augmentation of the uterine response to HCG might be produced. It seems most likely that chlormadinone administration causes storage of endogenous gonadotrophin in the pituitary, and that the exogenous gonadotrophin acts as the 'trigger' for the release of stored hormone, probably by a direct action on the hypothalamus.
THE EFFECT OF STEROIDS AND RELAXIN ON ACID PHOSPHATASE IN THE PUBIC SYMPHYSIS OF THE OVARIECTOMIZED MOUSE
Authors: MANNING J. P. , STEINETZ B. G. , BUTLER MARGARET C. , PRIESTER SARA
Published: December 2008

The histochemical changes in acid phosphatase activity of the pubic joint of ovariectomized mice treated with various hormones have been studied. Oestrogen administration resulted in marked increase in acid phosphatase activity of the osteoclasts, osteocytes, chondroclasts, young chondrocytes and chondroblasts in addition to bone resorption and transformation of the hyaline cartilage caps of the pubic bones into fibrocartilage. Relaxin, progesterone and cortisone acetate failed to influence the quantity or distribution of the enzyme in the pubic joint of mice primed with oestrogen. Progesterone and cortisone inhibited ligament formation produced by relaxin in oestrogen-treated animals. The results are discussed in relation to the activities of the hormones on the symphysis pubis of the mouse.
THE SERUM INORGANIC PHOSPHORUS PATTERN DURING THE AUGMENTED INSULIN TOLERANCE TEST IN ACROMEGALY
Authors: MASSARA F. , CAMANNI F. , MOLINATTI G. M.
Published: December 2008

A study has been made of the inorganic serum phosphorus pattern in twenty-one acromegalic subjects during the 'augmented insulin tolerance test'.

The serum phosphorus curve differed from normal in an elevated fasting level and, more especially, a reduction in the maximum fall. The latter anomaly is far more marked and constant than those found in the blood-sugar curve, and would thus seem to be a reliable criterion for the 'activity' of acromegaly.
THE METABOLISM OF CORTISOL BY HUMAN EXTRA-HEPATIC TISSUES
Authors: JENKINS J. S.
Published: December 2008

The extra-hepatic metabolism of cortisol in man has been studied in vitro by incubation of [4-14C]cortisol with tissue slices.

Kidney tissue was the most active, followed by prostate; thyroid, skeletal muscle and synovial membrane were much less effective. Cortisone was quantitatively the predominant metabolite but C-20-reduced derivatives of cortisol and cortisone were also present. There was evidence for the oxidation of the side chain by kidney and prostate, but no ring A-reduced compounds were found.

Kidney slices did not reduce the 11-oxo group of cortisone but this reaction proceeded readily with liver slices.

Some evidence for extra-hepatic metabolism of cortisol in vivo by the tissues of the forearm was obtained by infusing [4-14C]cortisol into the brachial artery.
THE INDUCTION OF MAMMARY GROWTH IN THE HYPOPHYSECTOMIZED GOAT
Authors: COWIE A. T. , TINDAL J. S. , YOKOYAMA A.
Published: December 2008

Mammogenesis has been studied in hypophysectomized goats (nine completely and four incompletely hypophysectomized). In the absence of the pituitary, hexoestrol alone or in combination with progesterone failed to stimulate the growth of the mammary gland or to prevent regression of the already developed mammary gland. In the ovariectomized-hypophysectomized goat considerable mammary lobulo-alveolar growth can be promoted by administering hexoestrol and progesterone in combination with prolactin (ovine), growth hormone (bovine) and adrenocorticotrophin.
METABOLISM OF PROGESTERONE IN THE PIG-TAIL MONKEY (MACACA NEMESTRINA)
Authors: JEFFERY J. d'A.
Published: December 2008

The metabolic fate of administered progesterone (pregn-4-en-3,20-dione) has been investigated in three pig-tail monkeys (Macaca nemestrina).

Androsterone (3α-hydroxy-5α-androstan-17-one) was a quantitatively important urinary metabolite. Metabolites were also found in substantial amounts in fractions corresponding to pregnanediol and to more polar compounds, but 5β-pregnane-3α,20α-diol itself was not a major urinary metabolite.
THE HUMAN ADRENAL GLAND WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO THE VASCULATURE
Authors: DOBBIE J. W. , SYMINGTON T.
Published: December 2008

The internal anatomy, particularly the vasculature, of the human adrenal was investigated with the help of three-dimensional reconstruction models supplemented by stereo-angiography. A definite pattern of positional relationship was shown to exist between the cortex, medulla and venous drainage, and on this basis the adrenal should be considered as a tripartite structure consisting of a head, a body and a tail region. The disposition of the longitudinal muscle bundles in the adrenal veins follows a definite pattern in each region of the gland. The muscular veins lie almost entirely within sleeves of cortical tissue. The selective gathering of the muscle bundles into the medulla-facing segment of the veins in certain regions of the gland is described. The effect of this muscular arrangement on the venous sinuses which pass between the muscle bundles was investigated and considered to be one of closure. Elastic tissue was demonstrated in the medullary venous sinuses; it is suggested that together with the muscle bundles both constitute a musculo-elastic organ capable of intermittent explosive release of hormones from the venous sinuses into the central vein. The hitherto neglected effect of the unique venous sytem on the function of the cortex was examined. Its possible role in the morphological changes of the adult cortex in response to stress, adrenocorticotrophic hormone, and in adrenal pathology is considered.
THE CORPUS LUTEUM OF THE SHEEP: EFFECT OF THE REMOVAL OF EMBRYOS ON LUTEAL FUNCTION
Authors: MOOR R. M. , ROWSON L. E. A.
Published: December 2008

The surgical removal of embryos from the uteri of sheep at selected stages from the 5th to the 15th day of pregnancy provided a method of studying the functional relationship between the embryo and the corpus luteum. The cyclical life-span of the corpus luteum was not affected by the presence of embryos in the uterus provided that they were removed by the 12th day after oestrus. However, a delay in the removal of the embryos until day 13, 14 or 15 resulted in a marked extension of luteal function. These findings indicate that the luteotrophic effect exerted by the embryo first becomes essential for the maintenance of the corpus luteum of pregnancy after day 12 and are in close agreement with previous results obtained by the transplantation of embryos.
INHIBITION OF BOVINE GROWTH HORMONE ACTIVITY BY ACETYL PROTEINS
Authors: SONENBERG M. , MONEY W. L.
Published: December 2008

Bovine growth hormone (BGH) was acetylated with acetic anhydride under a variety of conditions and the optimal conditions defined to obtain a growth hormone inhibitor. Acetyl BGH as well as acetyl thyrotrophin, acetyl bovine serum albumin and acetyl lactalbumin in equivalent doses inhibited the growth response of hypophysectomized and intact rats to unmodified bovine growth hormone. N-acetyl dl-proline and O-acetyl dl-serine of many amino and hydroxyl acetyl amino acids also inhibited BGH but in a higher molar dose than that of the acetyl proteins.
PROLACTIN-LIKE ACTIVITY IN THE PITUITARY GLAND OF FISHES AND AMPHIBIANS?
Authors: CHADWICK A.
Published: December 2008

The pituitaries of three species of cartilaginous fish, 11 species of bony fish and two species of amphibian were subjected to pigeon-crop and rabbit mammary-gland tests for prolactin-like activity. Both pituitary homogenates and partially purified pituitary extracts were investigated.

Positive reactions were observed with pituitaries from all species tested, though there were invariably marked differences from the normal response produced by injections of purified sheep prolactin. These differences suggest that a principle is present in lower vertebrate pituitaries which has some, but not all, of the characteristics of higher vertebrate prolactin. The secretory stimulatory element responsible for the onset of milk secretion in the target organ is absent, but the proliferative element responsible for growth of the gland during a response is already demonstrable.
ULTRASTRUCTURAL CHANGES IN THE ADENOHYPOPHYSIS OF CASTRATED RABBITS
Authors: YOUNG B. A. , FOSTER C. L. , CAMERON E.
Published: December 2008

The ultrastructure of the rabbit adenohypophysis is described at increasing time-intervals after castration. An early effect of castration was the appearance of large numbers of degranulated or partially degranulated cells in both the pars distalis proper and the zona tuberalis. These cells were similar in general shape and granule size to the type 3 and 3z cells of the normal rabbit adenohypophysis. Characteristically these cells show a dilatation of the cisternae of the ergastoplasm and a prominent Golgi zone. 284 days after castration the partially degranulated cells were very large and their dilated cisternae were up to 1·3 μ in diameter and more spherical in form.

Since the cells most affected by castration were similar in all respects to the type 3 and 3z cells described in normal rabbits, they are considered to be the gonadotrophs.
ANDROGEN SYNTHESIS BY THE TESTES AND ADRENAL GLANDS OF RATS POISONED WITH CADMIUM CHLORIDE
Authors: FAVINO A. , BAILLIE A. H. , GRIFFITHS K.
Published: December 2008

Androgen synthesis after administration of cadmium chloride to rats has been studied histologically, histochemically and biochemically. Incubation in vitro of testicular tissue removed 10 days after cadmium administration revealed markedly decreased testosterone synthesis. After 100 and 150 days, testosterone synthesis in vitro had increased progressively and significantly, but there was a marked decrease in the testosterone: androstenedione ratio. Surviving Leydig cells, giving typical histochemical reactions for 3β-, 16β- and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, were observed under the tunica albuginea immediately after cadmium poisoning. Fifty days after the cadmium treatment, mesenchymal cells, giving a histochemical 3α- and 16α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase reaction, but no other hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase reaction of normal Leydig cells, grew into the testes from the tunica albuginea. Weight, citric acid and fructose contents of seminal vesicles of cadmium-treated rats fell nearly to castration levels, but showed some degree of recovery thereafter. Studies in vitro on adrenal tissue from cadmium-poisoned rats suggested that the rate of testosterone biosynthesis from pregnenolone was increased.
THE EFFECTS OF TREATMENT WITH GONADOTROPHINS OR WITH OESTROGEN ON THE THYROID GLAND OF THE IMMATURE RAT
Authors: BROWN-GRANT K.
Published: December 2008

The uptake of 131I by the thyroid gland increased 72 hr. after the injection of pregnant mare serum gonadotrophin (PMS) into immature female rats whether ovulation occurred or not. PMS failed to produce this effect in male rats but oestrogen administration increased 131I uptake in both male and female immature rats, suggesting that oestrogen was responsible for the effect of PMS in females. Both PMS and oestrogen may increase the uptake of radioactive phosphate by the thyroid of female but not male rats; oestrogen may stimulate thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) secretion in immature female rats. These effects of oestrogen in the female made it impossible to determine whether the 'ovulatory surge' in luteinizing hormone secretion in PMS-treated rats was associated with an increased secretion of TSH or not.
ALKALINE PHOSPHATASE AND β-GLUCURONIDASE ACTIVITY IN THE RAT UTERUS DURING EARLY PREGNANCY
Authors: MANNING J. P. , MELI A. , STEINETZ B. G.
Published: December 2008

Uterine alkaline phosphatase and β-glucuronidase activity were assayed during the first 8 days of pregnancy in rats after unilateral tubal ligation and section. The results were as follows. Alkaline phosphatase increased in the pregnant horn from days 5 to 8 while the activity of the nonpregnant horn remained unaltered. This enhanced phosphatase activity was localized exclusively at the implantation sites. β-Glucuronidase steadily decreased during the first 8 days of pregnancy in both the gravid and non-gravid horns. The occurrence of a 'peak' in β-glucuronidase activity during the oestrogen surge on day 4 of pregnancy reported previously by Prahlad (1962) was not observed.

The results are discussed in relation to an interaction between the implanting blastocyst and the hormonally conditioned uterus.
COMPARISON OF THE MILK-EJECTING POTENCIES OF OXYTOCIN AND DEAMINO-OXYTOCIN IN LACTATING WOMEN
Authors: ALTHABE O. , ARNT I. C. , BRANDA L. A. , CALDEYRO-BARCIA R.
Published: December 2008

The milk-ejecting potencies of deamino-oxytocin and oxytocin were compared by means of recordings of intramammary pressure in lactating women.

No difference in milk-ejecting potency was found between the two peptides in one woman 16 months after delivery; at this time her blood did not inactivate either of the peptides.

In other women on the third day post partum, deamino-oxytocin was found to be 1·5 times as potent as oxytocin (w/w). At this stage, the blood of the patients inactivated oxytocin (half life: 10 min.) but not deamino-oxytocin; this effect accounts only in part for the difference in potency between the two peptides.
THE EFFECT OF EXOGENOUS HORMONES ON AGGRESSIVE AND DEFENSIVE BEHAVIOUR IN THE RING DOVE (STREPTOPELIA RISORIA)
Authors: VOWLES D. M. , HARWOOD D.
Published: December 2008

The aggressive and defensive behaviour of the ring dove was studied in response to a model predator and to another member of the same species. During a single breeding cycle defensive behaviour increased rapidly just before laying, reached a second peak at the time of hatching, and declined as the squabs became independent. Cocks showed aggressive behaviour to other doves throughout the cycle, but this response reached a peak soon after laying, and declined at the time of hatching.

The effects of seven daily injections of oestrogen, progesterone, progesterone plus oestrogen, testosterone, and prolactin were studied. In both sexes prolactin and progesterone (with and without oestrogen) increased defensive behaviour towards a predator; in hens these hormones also increased defensive behaviour towards other birds. In cocks, however, prolactin had no effect on the response to other doves; progesterone (with and without oestrogen) increased aggressiveness, and oestrogen increased nest-cooing.

Single injections of the same hormones produced similar effects, with the exception that testosterone and oestrogen in hens caused a temporary (1–5 hr.) increase in defensive behaviour. The latency of most hormonal effects was 30 min. to 2 hr., although the injections were intramuscular. This suggests a direct effect on central nervous mechanisms. Progesterone had a latency of 12–18 hr., suggesting an indirect effect.
INSULIN CONTENT AND ENZYME HISTOCHEMISTRY OF THE HUMAN FOETAL PANCREATIC ISLET
Authors: ADESANYA T. , GRILLO I. , SHIMA K.
Published: December 2008

The occurrence of insulin in the developing human pancreatic islet was investigated histochemically and by immunoassay. A parallel histochemical study of enzymes in each foetal pancreas was also made.

Oxidative enzymes and the phosphatases, glucose-6-phosphatase and acid phosphatase were localized in pancreatic islet cells from foetuses of 80 mm. crown-rump (CR) length onwards.

Insulin was demonstrated both by the fluorescent antibody technique and by immunoassay in the pancreatic extracts of all foetuses of over 80 mm. CR length. No insulin was present in the extract of the pancreas of a 35 mm. foetus. Since β-granulation occurred in foetuses of 90–110 mm. CR length it became obvious that insulin formation starts before β-granulation.
SUPPRESSIVE ACTION OF CORTICOSTEROIDS ON THE SECRETION OF GROWTH HORMONE
Authors: PECILE A. , MÜLLER E.
Published: December 2008

The effect of cortisol (5 mg./100 g. body weight administered for 10 days) on the secretion of growth hormone (GH) from the pituitary was studied in 30-day-old female rats. The results indicate that the suppressive action of cortisol on GH secretion is not due to a reduced availability of the hormone in the pituitary but to an impairment of the release mechanism(s) as shown by the lack of GH release in response to insulin hypoglycaemia and by the marked decrease of GH-releasing activity in the hypothalamus of cortisol-treated rats.
HORMONAL CONTROL OF ADULT REPRODUCTIVE DIAPAUSE IN THE EGYPTIAN GRASSHOPPER, ANACRIDIUM AEGYPTIUM, L.
Authors: GELDIAY S.
Published: December 2008

The histology of the cerebral neurosecretory system and the corpora allata of Anacridium aegyptium is similar to that of other locusts, except that the adult diapause of this species introduces differences during oocyte growth. In diapausing adults of Anacridium, the cerebral neurosecretory cells contain large amounts of stainable material; when diapause is broken, the cells contain very much less material as the oocytes develop, but material accumulates once more when the oocytes are fully grown. The corpora allata are small in diapausing females, enlarge considerably during oocyte growth and vitellogenesis in post-diapause insects, and again decrease in size when the oocytes are fully grown.

It is inferred from these observations that the neurosecrectory cells and the corpora allata are both inactive during diapause. But the effects upon oocyte growth of destruction of the neurosecretory cells, and of allatectomy, in diapausing females which are subsequently kept under conditions which terminate diapause in normal individuals, strongly suggest that the cerebral neurosecretory system is the primary cause of the inhibition of oocyte growth during adult diapause.
THE EFFECT OF THYROXINE ON THE MOVEMENT OF CALCIUM AND INORGANIC PHOSPHATE THROUGH THE SMALL INTESTINE OF THE RAT
Authors: NOBLE H. M. , MATTY A. J.
Published: December 2008

Young female rats were given a daily injection of 1 mg. thyroxine/kg. body weight for 7 days. They were killed on the eighth day and the small intestine used for a study of the movement of radioactive calcium and inorganic phosphate. The everted sac technique was used.

The results indicate that the passive movement of phosphate was depressed. Both the passive and active transport of calcium were also depressed. It is suggested that the transport of calcium and the transport of phosphate, whether active or passive, are related and that thyroxine affects a single site located perhaps at the basement membrane of the mucosa.
EFFECT OF OESTROGEN ON THE RESPONSIVENESS OF NEURONES IN THE HYPOTHALAMUS, SEPTUM AND PREOPTIC AREA OF RATS WITH LIGHT-INDUCED PERSISTENT OESTRUS
Authors: LINCOLN D. W. , CROSS B. A.
Published: December 2008

The responses of septal, preoptic and hypothalamic neurones to pain, cold, changes in ocular illumination and probing of the cervix were recorded in adult female rats under light urethane anaesthesia. Responses in rats with light-induced persistent oestrus were compared with those obtained after ovariectomy, and after ovariectomy with oestrogen treatment.

The majority of units in the lateral hypothalamic area were excited by pain, cold and cervical stimuli, whereas in the lateral septal area most were inhibited. The numbers of units in the anterior hypothalamic and preoptic areas that displayed excitation to these stimuli were approximately equal to those showing inhibition.

The time-course of the responses to pain, cold and cervical stimuli of most hypothalamic and septal units closely corresponded to that of the associated EEG activation (frontal cortex), suggesting that they were non-specific arousal effects. Other responses, usually of brief duration, were not correlated with EEG changes.

Endogenous and exogenous oestrogen increased the percentage of units in the lateral and anterior hypothalamic areas that were inhibited by the pain, cold and cervical stimuli, and decreased the number in the lateral septal area. Oestrogen enhanced the responsiveness of preoptic units to the cervical stimulus, but depressed their responsiveness to pain and cold.

Hypothalamic units inhibited by the pain stimulus had mean 'spontaneous' firing rates of 4–5 spikes/sec. and those which were excited had rates of 1–2/sec.

Light-sensitive units were found mainly in the lateral septal and anterior hypothalamic areas. The usual form of the response was a brief 'on-off' or 'off-on' discharge.

The results are discussed in relation to the central nervous control of ovulation.
IMMUNOFLUORESCENT LOCALIZATION OF CALCITONIN IN THE 'C' CELLS OF PIG AND DOG THYROID
Authors: BUSSOLATI G. , PEARSE A. G. E.
Published: December 2008

In the pig, the C cells of the thyroid gland, which are the counterparts of parafollicular cells of Nonidez in the thyroid of the dog, are mainly epifollicular rather than parafollicular.

Using guinea-pig anti-pig calcitonin, and an indirect ('sandwich') technique, immunofluorescence tests indicated that calcitonin in the pig thyroid is present in cells which are morphologically indistinguishable from the C cells. Calcitonin was also present in cells which resemble pericytes.

Taking advantage of cross-reactivity between canine calcitonin and anti-pig calcitonin antibody, a similar localization (C cells and pericytes) could be shown by immunofluorescence tests in the thyroid of dogs.

These results confirm previous work indicating that the parafollicular cells are responsible for the production and secretion of thyrocalcitonin. The role of the pericytes has not been established with certainty.