bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of an Optical Signal Using Difference Frequency Generation in a Periodically Poled LiTaO3 Microwave Waveguide
Authors: Murata Hiroshi , Okamura Yasuyuki
Published: November 2008

The detection of an optical signal modulated at 15 GHz was demonstrated experimentally by using difference frequency generation based on a second‐order nonlinear optical effect in a periodically poled LiTaO3 microwave rectangular waveguide. The measured frequency dependence of the generated microwave signal was in good agreement with the theoretically expected result. An interesting application of the proposed device is the detection of high‐speed optical clock detection.
Therapeutic Anticoagulant Does not Modify Thromboses Rate Vein after Venous Reconstruction Following Pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Ouaïssi Mehdi , Sielezneff Igor , Pirro Nicolas , Bon Mardion Rémi , Chaix Jean Batiste , Merad Abdelrhame , Berdah Stéphane , Moutardier Vincent , Cresti Silvia , Emungania Olivier , Anderson Loundou , Christian Brunet , Bernard Sastre
Published: November 2008

Recommendations for anticoagulation following major venous reconstruction for pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PA) are not clearly established. The aim of our study was to find out the relation between postoperative anticoagulant treatment and thrombosis rate after portal venous resection.Materials and methods. Between 1986 and 2006, twenty seven portal vein resections were performed associated with pancreaticoduodenectomies (n=27) (PD).We defined four types of venous resection: type I was performed 1 cm above the confluent of the superior mesenteric vein (SMV) (n=12); type II lateral resection and venorrhaphy at the level of the confluent SMV (n=12); type III (n=1) resulted from a primary end-to-end anastomosis above confluent and PTFE graph was used for reconstruction for type IV (n=2). Curative anticoagulant treatment was always indicated after type IV (n=2) resection, and after resection of type II when the length of venous resection was longer than≥2 cm.Results. Venous thrombosis rate reached: 0%, 41%, and 100% for type I, II, IV resections, respectively. Among them four patients received curative anticoagulant treatment.Conclusion. After a portal vein resection was achieved in the course of a PD, curative postoperative anticoagulation does not prevent efficiently the onset of thrombosis.
Does Body Weight Influence the Response to Intravenous Tissue Plasminogen Activator in Stroke Patients?
Authors: Lou Min , Selim Magdy
Published: November 2008

Background: The recommended dose of IV tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) for ischemic stroke patients weighing >100 kg (ISPW >100 kg) is fixed at 90 mg. Elevated levels of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) and impaired fibrinolysis have been reported in heavy patients, suggesting that ISPW >100 kg may require higher doses of t-PA. We hypothesized that ISPW >100 kg are less likely to benefit from IV t-PA compared to patients who weigh ≤100 kg and receive a weight-based dose. Methods: We queried the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke t-PA study database, and performed multivariate logistic regression analyses to analyze the effects of weight (>100 vs. ≤100 kg) and t-PA dose on functional outcomes at 3 months. Results: Six percent of the t-PA and 10% of the placebo cohorts had an actual body weight >100 kg. Weight >100 kg emerged as a predictor of worse outcome (OR = 5.76; p = 0.017) and neurological deterioration (OR = 3.4; p = 0.07) after t-PA. This negative impact of body weight on outcome was not seen among placebo-treated patients. We also found a trend for an association between lower doses of t-PA and unfavorable 3-month outcomes in t-PA-treated patients (OR = 1.9; p = 0.05). Conclusions: ISPW >100 kg seem to derive less benefit from IV t-PA than their lighter counterparts. This may be partly attributed to the use of fixed non-weight-adjusted dosing in heavier patients. The mechanism(s) underlying this observation and its potential therapeutic implications require further investigations.
Cyclo-Oxygenase-2 –765G > C Promoter Variants Are Associated with Lower Carotid Plaque Echogenicity in Japanese
Authors: Furukado Shigetaka , Sakaguchi Manabu , Yamagami Hiroshi , Yagita Yoshiki , Hoshi Taku , Abe Yuko , Hougaku Hidetaka , Hori Masatsugu , Sakoda Saburo , Kitagawa Kazuo
Published: November 2008

Background and Purpose: Recent studies revealed that inflammation contributes to plaque instability. Cyclo-oxygenase (COX)-2 is one of the key enzymes in plaque inflammation. We examined the relation between a polymorphism in the COX-2 gene and carotid plaque echogenicity in patients with high risk of cerebrovascular disease to evaluate the involvement of COX-2 in plaque instability. Methods: The study comprised 469 individuals with carotid atherosclerotic plaques. We quantified the echogenicity of the largest plaque in each participant by integrated backscatter analysis. The –765G > C variant of the COX-2 gene was genotyped by restriction enzyme fragment length polymorphism analysis. Urinary 6-keto prostaglandin F1α levels and flow-mediated dilation were measured in 25 participants from the –765GC genotype group and 25 matched participants from the –765GG genotype group. Results: The carotid plaque echogenicity in the variant genotype group (n = 44) was lower than that in the –765GG genotype group (n = 425, p = 0.017). The association remained significant when we controlled for atherosclerotic risk factors, plaque thickness and serum levels of interleukin-6 (p = 0.027). The level of urinary 6-keto prostaglandin F1α and flow-mediated dilation in the variant genotype group was significantly lower than that in the –765GG genotype group. Conclusions: The –765G > C variant of COX-2 was associated with reduced carotid plaque echogenicity in Japanese. Diminished COX-2 activity in the endothelium may contribute to plaque instability.
Small Dense Low-Density Lipoproteins and Associated Risk Factors in Patients with Stroke
Authors: Zhao Chun Xia , Cui Ying Hua , Fan Qiao , Wang Pei Hua , Hui Ruitai , Cianflone Katherine , Wang Dao Wen
Published: November 2008

Objective: Low-density lipoproteins (LDL) are a heterogeneous group of particles, with small, dense particles being more atherogenic. It remains controversial whether elevated plasma levels of small dense LDL (sd-LDL) are risk factors for stroke. The aim of the present study was to examine the plasma levels of sd-LDL in patients with stroke and to investigate the associations in a large Chinese case-control study. Methods: We recruited 299 stroke patients (159 cerebral thrombosis, 42 lacunar infarction, 98 intracerebral hemorrhage) and 299 controls. The semiquantitative analysis of plasma levels of sd-LDL was performed by nondenaturing gradient gel electrophoresis. Results: (1) The plasma levels of sd-LDL in patients with ischemic stroke or hemorrhagic stroke were higher than in controls. (2) Multiple regression analysis showed that there were significant relationships between sd-LDL and triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, systolic blood pressure and history of diabetes, and a significant relationship between sd-LDL and stroke (r = 0.286, p < 0.001) even after adjusting for these factors. (3) Compared with the controls, the calculation of odds ratios indicated relative risk estimates of 3.111 for ischemic stroke (OR = 3.111 , 95% CI = 1.891–5.117, p < 0.001) and 3.164 for hemorrhagic stroke (OR = 3.164, 95% CI = 1.632–6.137, p < 0.01). Conclusion: Plasma sd-LDL was independently associated with both thrombotic and hemorrhagic stroke, suggesting it may be an independent predictor of as well as a risk factor for stroke in Chinese people, justifying clinical trials for primary and secondary prevention of stroke using statins or fibrates.
Effect of Vanadium on Insulin Sensitivity in Patients with Impaired Glucose Tolerance
Authors: Jacques-Camarena Omar , González-Ortiz Manuel , Martínez-Abundis Esperanza , López-Madrueño J.F. Pariz , Medina-Santillán Roberto
Published: November 2008

Background/Aim: Impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) is considered a risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and is associated with insulin resistance. Vanadium seems to block protein tyrosine phosphatase with the consequent increment in insulin sensitivity (INS) in T2DM patients, but this effect has not been studied in IGT patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of vanadium on INS in IGT patients. Methods: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was carried out in 14 overweight/obese patients with IGT. Intervention consisted of vanadyl sulfate (VS, 50 mg p.o. twice daily) or placebo for 4 weeks. Before and after the intervention, a metabolic profile was performed and INS was assessed using the euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp technique. Mann-Whitney U and Wilcoxon rank tests were used for statistical analyses. Results: There were no significant differences in basal characteristics between groups. VS did not affect INS [2.7 ± 0.8 vs. 2.9 ± 0.9 mg/(kg/min), p = 0.735] but increased triglyceride levels (1.35 ± 0.61 vs. 1.70 ± 0.46 mmol/l, p = 0.018). Conclusions: VS administration in IGT patients increased triglyceride concentrations without changes in INS.
Astrocytoma of the Ciliary Body
Authors: Mei Haifeng , Xing Yiqiao , Yang Anhuai , Wang Jing , Xu Ya , Wang Zesheng , Heiligenhaus Arnd
Published: November 2008

Purpose: To report the occurrence of an astrocytoma of the ciliary body. Methods: The patient was evaluated by ophthalmoscopic examination (including color ultrasonography and ultrasound biomicroscopy) as well as operating therapy. Histopathology and immunocytochemical analysis were performed. Results: A 29-year-old woman was found to have a left ciliary body tumor. Color ultrasonography revealed a 12 × 10 mm size, a low-level echo boundary, and a bright echogenic band. Ultrasound biomicroscopy showed that the lesion was located in the superior temporal quadrant of the ciliary body and extended backward for 6 mm from the limbus. The tumor was carefully dissected free and completely removed via episcleral incision. Histopathology revealed a fibrillary astrocytoma. Staining for glial fibrillary acidic protein yielded positive results and neuron-specific enolase yielded negative results. Conclusions: We describe an astrocytoma of the ciliary body in a patient, which is an extremely rare ocular tumor. Histopathology and immunocytochemical analysis were required to establish the diagnosis.
Pineal Gland Behaviour as Affected by Cold
Authors: Miline R. , Devečerski V. , Šijački N. , Krstić R.
Published: November 2008

The pineal gland of rats exposed to the effect of low temperatures shows structural changes of a progressive nature: hypertrophy and hyperplasia of pineocytes, hypertrophy of nuclei and nucleoli;deprivation of followed by saturation by, pineocytes in sudanophilic granulations; intensified activities of nonspecific esterases, acid phossphatases and alkaline phosphatases; polymorphism and hypertrophy of mitochondria, hypertrophy of the Golgi zone, abundance of free ribosomes. On the basis of the results obtained indicating stimulated activity of the pineal gland, this organ is to be considered as integrated in the regulation system of adaptation to cold.
Intrahypothalamic Localization and Onset of Production of Thyrotrophin Releasing Factor (TRF) in the Albino Rat
Authors: Mess B.
Published: November 2008

Thyrotrophin Releasing Factor (TRF) activity ofacidic extracts of the hypothalamus was investigated following lesions of different hypothalamic areas by the use of the intracarotid pituitary trophic hormone depletion technique of David et al. [1965]. TRF was almost completely absent following lesions of the suprachiasmatic, the paraventricular and of the arcuate-ventromedial hypothalamic areas. These three regions correspond to the hypophysiotrophic area (HTA) of Halász et al. [1962, 1965]. No significant decrease in hypothalamic TRF activity was observed after lesions outside the HTA but still within hypothalamus (the dorsomedial, mamillary and antero-lateral areas). The destruction of the stalk-median eminence (SME) region led to an increased TRF concentration of the hypothalamic extract. This latter effect might be due to an accumulation of TRF in the SME, caused by the inhibition of TRF-output as a consequence of the interruption of the pituitary stalk and of the portal vessels. TRF production starts at the 6th postnatal day and reaches the adult level at about the 17th day after birth. The onset of TRF production corresponds with the time of the final development of the pituitary portal circulation.
The Secretion of Parathyroid Hormone and Calcitonin
Authors: Care A.D. , Bates R.F.L.
Published: November 2008

Factors which affect the secretion of parathyroid hormone (PTH) and calcitonin (CT) are subdivided into those which are nonspecific, those associated directly with ionic changes and those associated with changes in the intracellular concentration of cyclic AMP. Whereas PTH secretion is inversely related to both the concentrations of calcium and magnesium, CT secretion increases with increases in the plasma concentration of these ions. Cyclic AMP and both glucagon and adrenalin, at concentrations close to those found in normal animals, stimulate CT release in certain species but the alpha adrenergic component of adrenalin must first be blocked before the stimulatory effect of the beta adrenergic component is manifest. Speculation on the reason for the different effects of calcium and cyclic AMP in the two cells is centred on the possibility that they may have different intracellular concentrations of ionized calcium and that this may lead to an emphasis on hormone storage in the para-follicular cell and de novo hormone synthesis in the parathyroid chief cell.
Regulation of Plasma Calcium in Man: The Influence of Parathyroid Hormone and Calcitonin
Authors: Gudmundsson T.V. , Woodhouse N.J.Y.
Published: November 2008

The regulation of plasma calcium is usually attributed to variations in osteoclastic resorption of bone under the influence of parathyroid hormone. This hormone however increases tubular reabsorption of calcium and absorption of calcium from the gut. The actions of parathyroid hormone and calcitonin in man are reviewed and their probable role in calcium homeostasis outlined.
New Lines to the Treatment of Male Sterility
Authors: Silló-Seidl G.
Published: November 2008

Author described a new fertility index, on the basis of the total number of the progressive motile and normal formed spermatozoa in the ejaculate. The variation of this index in combination with hormonal investigations are able to give lines in the choice of the effective treatment in male infertility.
The Analysis of the Endometrium of 1,000 Sterile Women
Authors: Silló-Seidl G.
Published: November 2008

The endometrium of 1,000 sterile women were histologically evaluated, by premenstrual or menstrual biopsy or curettage. Nearly 20% showed corporal or cervical polyps. The intrauterine intervention is also of therapeutic value. Endometrial response after administration of oral contraceptives was not favourable in the cases of hormonal sterility.The author concludes that in the diagnosis of sterility no histological examination ofthe endometrium is in error.
Further Contribution to the Understanding of the Post-infarctual Anedematous Syndrome
Authors: Lodi A. , Bernardi P. , Descovich G.C. , Gritti F.M.
Published: November 2008

The authors describe an anomalous post-infarctual evolution, already revealed by Sotgiu in 1959 and defined the’ postinfarctual anedematous syndrome’ (SAPI). The syndrome, present in about 12% of MI, demonstrates a clinical picture characterized by a global hypometabolism, absence of edema and state of continuous sub-collapse; an endocrine picture characterized by a corticomedullary adrenal, thyroid and hypophisis hypoactivity. The results confirm that, in contrast to other myocardial infarction cases, in patients with SAPI low values of cortisol, aldosterone and catecholamines exist, with alteration of the glycocorticoid and adrenergic amine circadian-biorhythm. The pharmacodynamic tests, demonstrating the integrity of the adrenal gland, have revealed an alteration of the hypothalamic-pituitary function. According to the authors, the occurrence of SAPI might be interpreted on the basis of a particular vulnerability of the hypothalamic-pituitary system (often depending upon the senile age of the subjects) which is probably amplified by the stress created by the myocardial necrosis.
Radioimmunoassay of a Human Pituitary Prolactin in Plasma
Authors: Bryant Gillian D. , Siler Theresa M. , Greenwood F.C. , Pasteels J.L. , Robyn C. , Hubinont P.O.
Published: November 2008

A protein fraction with prolactin bioactivities was obtained from the culture medium of human fetal pituitary tissue in long term cultures and termed Pasteels human prolactin (PHP) for convenience. An antiserum was prepared against this human prolactin and used to develop a radioimmunoassay for the material in human plasma. The antigen available (220 µg)was tested against antisera to human growth hormone and to human placental lactogen and in radioimmunoassays for these hormones. The results suggested that the human prolactin fraction contained some immunoreactive human growth hormone (1%). The resulting antibodies in the antihuman prolactin serum could be neutralized by the addition of human growth hormone. The human prolactin also generated antibodies, binding 131I-labelled human prolactin, which were not neutralized by human growth hormone. This binding was inhibited by plasma from a normal male, 2 normal females and by plasma from a lactating woman after breast feeding. An increase in plasma concentration of the inhibitor, immunologically similar to the human prolactin fraction, was obtained after phenothiazine injection. In the 7 plasma samples tested for human prolactin only 1 contained a detectable concentration of immunoreactive growth hormone. Immunoreactive human placental lactogen (human chorionic somatomammotropin) or any material cross-reacting with anti-HCS serum was undetectable in these plasma samples by a sensitive radioimmunoassay. It is suggested that human plasmas contain detectable amounts of a material immunologically similar to a prolactin fraction isolated from tissue cultures of fetal pituitaries. The fraction and the plasma inhibitor are distinguishable by immunoassay from human growth hormone and from human placental lactogen.
The Measurement of Progesterone in Human Plasma by Competitive Protein-Binding Radioassay
Authors: Fassorra C. , Luisi M.
Published: November 2008

A method for the determination of progesterone in human plasma by competitive protein-binding is described. This method consists of extraction with petroleum ether, HTLC to purify the extracts and CBG-assay. The reliability criteria of the complete procedure are presented. The method is suitable for application to peripheral blood levels at all stages of the menstrual cycle and in men. The plasma values of progesterone in men and during the follicular and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle were 0.026 ± 0.014, 0.12 ± 0.02 and 0.83 ± 0.58 (S.D.) µg/100 ml, respectively.
Comparative Study of the Histoenzymological Properties of the Supraoptic and Paraventricular Nuclei and of Other Nuclear Regions of the Hypothalamus, the Epithalamus-Epiphysis Region and the Subfornical Organ
Authors: Bara D. , Skaliczki J. , Ormos J.
Published: November 2008

In the hypothalamus of white rats ganglion cell groups can be observed which show enzyme histochemical properties (low SDH and CYO, moderate G6PDH and TPND and marked LDH and MDH activity) similar to those of the supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei performing secretory function. These cell groups are the accessory magnocellular cell groups, those radiating from the paraventricular nucleus, all the cells of the nucleus tuberomamillaris as well as cells located in the area of the nucleus periventricularis arcuatus, cells situated inframamillarily and arranged peri- and parafornically in the infundibular plane. From the histoenzymological point of view several similar traits can be observed between these cell groups and the epiphysis as well as the special ependymal parts or organs of the third ventricle. On the basis of analogy it is conceivable that also the said cell groups of the hypothalamus perform secretory function.
The Phenomenon of Nucleolar Segregation in Some Lesions of the Thyroid Cell
Authors: Simionescu Maya
Published: November 2008

Study in the electron microscope of certain human thyroid lesions showed that the phenomenon of nucleolar segregation is comparatively frequent in sporadical or diffuse nodular goitres, in familial goitres and cancer of the thyroid. The reorganization and redistribution of the nucleolar material, reflecting deep alterations in the metabolism of ribonucleic acid, are proper to hypofunctional thyropathies. The intensity of segregation increases in proportion to neoplastic transformation of the thyroid cell.
In vitro Plasma Inactivation of Thyrotropin Releasing Factor (TRF) and Related Peptides. Its Inhibition by Various Means and by the Synthetic Dipeptide PCA-His-OME
Authors: Vale W.W. , Burgus R. , Dunn T.F. , Guillemin R.
Published: November 2008

Incubation in vitro of natural (ovine) or synthetic TRF (PCA-His-Pro-NH2) with rat blood, plasma, or reconstituted lyophilized serum destroys the biological activity. Inactivation of TRF by normal plasma takes place at 0 °C but at a slower rate than at 37 °C. Plasma obtained from rats several weeks after hypophysectomy and/ or hypophysectomy + thyroidectomy inactivates TRF. TRF activity is not recovered from TRF incubated in plasma when the incubate is treated with NaCl (4 m), ethanol (80% v/v) or HCl (to pH 1). Plasma inactivation of TRF is completely prevented by pretreatment of the plasma with ethanol (80% v/v); heating of plasma at 65 °C for 15 min also destroys the ability of plasma to inactivate TRF. The data reported are consistent with the hypothesis that plasma contains an enzyme (s) which destroys the activity of TRF. Plasma was also found to destroy the biological activity of PCA-His-Pro-OMe and PCA-His-Pro-OH (2 synthetic tripeptides with TRF activity). The biological activity of PCA-His-Pro-OH is destroyed in vitro at a slower rate by plasma than that of PCA-His-Pro-NH2 or natural TRF. Addition of the dipeptide analogue of TRF, PCA-His-OMe, prevents in vitro the inactivation of TRF by plasma.
The Systemic and Local Effects of Dexamethasone, Triamcinolone, 6α-Fluorotriamcinolone, and Certain of Their Derivatives, Compared by Reference to Their Influence on the Foreign-Body Granuloma, on the Weight of the Adrenals and Thymus, and on the Rate of Weight Gain
Authors: Desaulles P.A. , Samsel J.
Published: November 2008

The systemic and local effects of three corticosteroids and their derivatives dexamethasone pivalate, triamcinolone acetonide and 6α-fluorotriamcinolone acetonide on inflammatory reactions (cotton-pellet granuloma), the weight of the adrenal and thymus, and on body weight have been studied. It was found that these corticosteroids and their derivatives can be differentiated on the basis of their rates of absorption following local application in effective anti-inflammatory doses. It appears that the extent of systemic effects is far less pronounced after local application of corticosteroids chosen on the basis of their ability to maintain a high concentration at the site treated, independently of their intrinsic activity. The advantages of such substances of which dexamethasone pivalate is a representative, are discussed.
Adrenal Function Parameters and Body Weight Gains in Young Rats Reared With or Without Mother Animal
Authors: Erdösová R. , Kraus M.
Published: November 2008

In comparison to young animals maintained in the presence of mother animal, weaning of young rats on day 15 decreases body wt. and average rate of corticosterone production, increases biological activity of plasma corticosterone estimated tentatively by means of relative thymus wt; and increases liver capacity to hydrogenate-A ring of corticoids. No change was found in average total plasma corticosterone level. Correlation studies revealed that in prematurely weaned rats 76.5% of variation in wt. gains may be explained by adrenal function parameters in comparison to only 4.4% in young rats maintained with the mother animal. Within the group of young prematurely weaned rats relatively lower adrenal system activity seems to favor larger weight gains.
Ultrastructural Aspects of Experimental Isoimmune Thyroiditis and of its Changes after TSH
Authors: Pende G. , Polleri A.
Published: November 2008

The AA induced isoimmune thyroiditis in the guinea pig using homologous total thyroid extract. They studied carefully the most intimate ultrastructural alterations in basal conditions and after a single TSH stimulation. About 20% of follicles were grossly damaged, with very little signs of function and did not respond to TSH. About 70% of follicles were less damaged, with very rudimental functional aspects and did not respond to TSH. Only 10% of follicular units, with small alterations of epitelial cells exhibited quite slight changes after the tropin. Very small interstitial infiltration is detectable at the immunization time considered.
Prophylaxis against Exophthalmos or its Progression in Newly-Treated Thyrotoxicosis
Authors: Danowski T.S. , Lukes F.K. , Sabeh G. , Narduzzi J.V. , Mendelsohn L.V.
Published: November 2008

Exophthalmos usually did not appear nor did pre-existent exophthalmos progress in thyrotoxic patients treated with desiccated thyroid in full replacement dosages, 2½ to 3 grains per day, simultaneously with thyroid blocking agent therapy, 131I administration, or thyroidectomy. Indeed, in most patients so treated, exophthalmos present prior to therapy of the hyperthyroidism decreased or disappeared. Our observations are consonant with the hypothesis that full replacement dosages of thyroid hormones started at essentially the same time that treatment of the thyrotoxic state is initiated may provide prophylaxis against the appearance or the progression of the exophthalmos which follows treatment of thyrotoxicosis. We do not intend to suggest, however, that exophthalmos which appears, progresses, or enters a malignant phase after successful treatment of hyperthyroidism at some time in the past is benefited by such treatment.
Interrelations Between Diabetes and Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Rodriguez-Miñon J.L. , Rapado A. , Conde M.P.
Published: November 2008

After reviewing the incidence of diabetes and hypertension as associated diseases, 1,000 cases of diabetes and 1,000 cases of arterial hypertension are reviewed. The statistical results permit us to affirm that there is no direct relation between the two diseases. If hypertension seems to be somewhat more frequent in diabetics than in the general population, this is due to vasculorenal or endocrine alterations which, with relative frequency associates with or are complications of the same diabetes, but this does not support the existence of a common etiopathogenic link.
Hormone Excretion in Pregnancy Following Gonadotrophin Treatment
Authors: Crooke A.C. , Butt W.R. , Bertrand P.V. , El Nahas H.Z. , Hansotia M.D. , Morris R.
Published: November 2008

40 consecutive pregnancies following treatment of infertile women with gonadotrophins were investigated. The 24-hourly excretion of oestriol, pregnanediol and chorionic gonadotrophin was measured at weekly intervals and correlated with the clinical findings. 23 pregnancies resuited in single babies, 6 in twins, 1 in triplets and 10 in abortion. Twelve single pregnancies were clinically normal and were used as a control group to estimate the mean and 95% confidence limits of the 24-hour excretions, and the mean and 95% confidence limits of the weekly rates of increase of each hormone excreted. These figures were used to determine if threatened abortion, abortion, pre-eclamptic toxaemia or multiple pregnancy could be predicted from the excretion of the hormones. Abnormally low excretion of at least 1 of the steroids occurred before clinical evidence of threatened abortion in 4 of 10 cases, abortion in 6 of 10 cases and pre-eclamptic toxaemia in 3 of 8 cases. The excretion of all steroids appeared to be raised in multiple pregnancies but the difference between the mean of these and the mean for single pregnancies was not significant, probably because of the wide scatter. The usefulness of hormone assays in pregnancy is discussed.
Experience with Insulin-Induced Hypoglycemia as a Provocative Test for Growth Hormone and Cortisol Secretion in Children
Authors: Girard J. , Baumann J.B. , Stahl M. , Nars P.W. , Bühler U. , Wick H.
Published: November 2008

Insulin-induced hypoglycemia has been used in 109 children with a variety of disorders to assess the hypothalamo-pituitary adrenal axis.The patients were divided into 3 groups: (1) patients with growth retardation and with various disorders where an involvement of the hypothalamo-pituitary region was suspected; (2) obese patients; (3) specific syndromes: spontaneous hypoglycemia, anorexia nervosa, Turner’s syndrome, craniopharyngioma. Glucose, free fatty acids, cortisol and growth hormone were measured before injection of insulin, and at 20-min-intervals thereafter for a period of 2–4 h. The findings, particularly in obesity and in syndromes other than growth disorders have shown, that a series of factors have to be considered for a correct interpretation of the hormonal response to hypoglycemia. The limits for normal, reduced or absent response are given and as a simple screening for growth hormonee deficiency, a growth hormone estimation without stimulation can be used. The test has been found safe under clinical conditions and to provide reliable information about growth hormone and ACTH, respectively cortisol reaction.
Glucose-6-Phosphate Content in Mammalian Pancreatic β-Cells
Authors: Idahl L.-Å.
Published: November 2008

Glucose-6-phosphate was measured in microdissected pancreatic islets obtained from obese-hyperglycemic mice. Exposure of the islets in a low glucose medium to the hypoglycemic sulfonylurea compound glibenclamide resulted in a significant decrease of glucose-6-phosphate. This effect might be due to uncoupling of the oxidative phosphorylation leading to an accelerated glycolytic rate. Under the same experimental conditions another stimulator of insulin release, dibutyryl cyclic 3,5-AMP, induced a slight increase in glucose-6-phosphate. Inhibition of the glucose-induced insulin release by epinephrine, diazoxide or omission of Ca+ + resulted in considerably elevated islet levels of glucose-6-phosphate. A reduced availability of Ca+ + may be a common denominator forthis effect on glucose-6-phosphate.
Specificity of Leucine Stimulation of Insulin Release
Authors: Lernmark Å.
Published: November 2008

The ability of leucine to stimulate insulin release was studied in an in vitro system, using microdissected pancreatic islets with a high proportion of the insulin-producing β-cells. When tested in a glucose-free medium, L-leucine stimulated insulin release over a wide concentration range with maximum effect at about 20 mM. The stimulation of insulin release was additive to that elicited by 10 mM glucose. The L-configuration was essential for leucine to be recognized by the β-cells as an insulin secretagogue. L-isoleucine, alone or in combination with L-leucine, did not affect insulin release. It seems, therefore, unlikely that all sites for L-leucine transport are identical with receptor sites for stimulation of insulin release.
Effects of Neutral and Dibasic Ammo Acids on the in vitro Release of Insulin
Authors: Lernmark Å.
Published: November 2008

The insulin-releasing ability of some neutral and dibasic amino acids was studied in an in vitro system using micro dissected pancreatic islets with a high proportion of insulin-producing β-cells. The neutral amino acids L-alanine and α-aminoisobutyric acid had no substantial effects on basal and glucose stimulated insulin release. In contrast, 5–20 mM of the dibasic amino acid L-arginine gradually enhanced the insulin release induced by 10 mM glucose. A critical glucose concentration must be reached before L-arginine can act as an insulin secretagogue. N-methyl-L-arginine lacked the stimulatory ability. Co-transport of neutral amino acids and sodium does not elicit insulin release in adult mouse β-cells. There may, however, be a close relationship between the transport site for L-arginine and a receptor triggering insulin release.
Hypothermia in Diabetic Acidosis
Authors: Matz R.
Published: November 2008

Hypothermia is seen in diabetic acidosis and its features may complicate the evaluation of the diabetic state. These include cardiac arrhythmias, low or normal temperature in the presence of infection, hypotension, depressed sensorium, moderate acidosis and possible resistance to the effects of insulin. Leukopenia may also be a feature of hypothermia in some of these patients. Speculation that hypothermia is dueto an intracellular lack of substrate for the production of heat in a number of diverse states is discussed.
Fractional and Partial Hypopituitarism in Anorexia nervosa
Authors: Danowski T.S. , Livstone E. , Gonzales A.R. , Jung Y. , Khurana R.C.
Published: November 2008

Increases in serum growth hormone which characterize acute starvation in non-obese individuals were usually absent in anorexia nervosa. Serum LH was decreased with serum FSH apparently normal in the majority. Increased adrenocortical activity as indicated by high basal 11 (OH)-corticosteroids and their incomplete suppression by dexamethasone and hyperresponsiveness to exogenous ACTH was recorded in about one-half of the patients tested. Urinary steroid responses to intravenous metyrapone were normal in all but one patient who had hypothalamic-pituitary hypofunction. Thyroid function was normal but TSH shortage has been reported. Resistance to insulin and a waning of insulin responses to hyperglycemia were noted in these individuals with anorexia nervosa.
The Effect of a Sulphated Mucopolysaccharide (RO1–8307) on Adrenal and Kidney Morphology and Function in the Rat
Authors: Abbott E.C. , James V.H.T. , Parker R.A. , Peart W.S. , Fraser R.
Published: November 2008

RO1–8307, a heparinoid with low anticoagulant activity, was injected into male rats on a controlled diet. The width of the zona glomerulosa decreased, in relation to dosage and duration of treatment. Other endocrine organs were histologically unchanged, but there was involution of the thymus in rats given large doses. Vacuolation occurred in the proximal convoluted renal tubule, without derangement of tubule function. Coincident with the histologically altered zona glomerulosa was a marked reduction in aldosterone levels in the adrenal venous plasma, without significant change in deoxycorticosterone or corticosterone levels. Plasma sodium and potassium values were unchanged. The juxtaglomerular index increased in most animals, but extractable renin, measured by direct bioassay, increased significantly only with maximal dosage of RO1-8307. The findings confirm the hypothesis that heparin and heparinoids with diuretic properties act selectively on the zona glomerulosa to reduce aldosterone secretion, but the exact mechanism remains unknown.
Central α-Adrenergic Regulation of Growth Hormone and Insulin
Authors: Toivola P.T.K. , Gale C.C. , Goodner C.J. , Werrbach J.H.
Published: November 2008

Serum growth hormone (GH) fell and serum insulin (IRI) rose within 30 min following infusion of phentolamine, an α-adrenergic blocking agent, into the anterior hypothalamus or third ventricle of conscious, fasted baboons. GH and IRI were unchanged following intravenous infusion systemically of phentolamine at doses 2 to 4 times greater than given centrally, indicating that the reciprocal changes in GH and IRI did not result from direct action of phentolamine on the adenohypophysis and pancreatic islets. Rather, these data suggest that the phentolamine blocked hypothalamic adrenergic mechanisms participating in the normal regulation of GH and IRI. Plasma glucose and 17-OHCS rose and plasma glycerol fell in association with changes in GH and IRI, but blood pressure, heart rate and internal temperature were not altered.
Plasma Insulin and Growth Hormone in Galactosemia
Authors: Finkelstein J.W. , Ludan A. , Hellman L. , Finberg L.
Published: November 2008

The present report concerns a child with galactosemia due to galactose-1-phosphate uridyl transferase deficiency, in whom both oral glucose and galactose tolerance tests were performed along with measurements of plasma insulin and growth hormone (GH). An oral galactose tolerance test showed an abnormally high rise and prolonged peak of the galactose curve as compared to the control. Insulin levels remained at extremely low values in both our patient and the control. GH levels showed no consistent changes in relation to blood glucose or galactose, but remained high throughout the test. GH levels showed a rise after the administration of glucose with failure of complete suppression. In the young infant, hypoglycemia may be partially prevented by hypersecretion of GH. Patients with a longer duration of untreated disease might be more prone to develop hypoglycemia.
Effect of Thyroidectomy and of Several Goitrogens on β-Glucuronidase Activity and Insulin Levels of Rats
Authors: Jolin T. , Nuñez J. , Mora R.J.
Published: November 2008

Thyroidectomized rats present lower plasma β-glucuronidase activity than age-paired controls. A very small daily dose of L-thyroxine (0.2 µg/100 g body wt.) which reinitiated growth in thyroidectomized rats increased their plasma β-glucuronidase activity toward the values of age-paired controls. Hypothyroidism induced by different drugs decreased the plasma activity of the enzyme. Animals on KCI04 had the lowest values and were comparable to those observed in thyroidectomized rats. However rats on PTU and KSCN showed higher values than the KCIO4 treated rats, although they were lower than those of the controls. The same change to β-glucuronidase was observed in plasma insulin levels.
Bidirectional Thyroxine Exchange in Pregnant Sheep
Authors: Robin N.I. , Selenkow H.A. , Fang V.S. , Refetoff S. , Piasecki G. , Rauschecker H. , Jackson B.T.
Published: November 2008

Radioisotopic exchange studies in pregnant sheep support the concept of a small but significant bidirectional transplacental thyroxine flux between mother and fetus in the last bimester. The direction and extent of this transfer is not known. There appears to be a rapid and appreciable deiodination of the administered radioactive thyroxine, but no indication that this iodide appeared to any measurable amount as radiothyroxine. The relatively small quantities of radioactive thyroxine transferred become quite significant when compared to the extremely small concentrations of free thyroxine presented to each placental interface.
Comparison of the Effect of Three Anti-Oestrogens on the Reaction of the Rat Adenohypophysis to Oestrogen
Authors: Schreiber V. , Přibyl T. , Roháčová Jitka
Published: November 2008

Male and female rats were injected with oestradiol benzoate, 1 mg twice a week. In the diet they received 0.034%o clomiphene citrate, SQ 10.591 and MER 25, the administration of the oestrogen being combined with the above-mentioned anti-oestrogens In male rats, 3 weeks administration of clomiphene did not cause a change, SQ 10.591 caused a slight increase and MER 25 a slight decrease in the weight of adenohypophysis. Clomiphene slightly reduced, SQ 10.591 did not affect, and MER 25 reduced considerably thyroxine binding to adenohypophysial proteins in vitro. Hypertrophy of the adenohypophysis after oestrogens was somewhat prevented by clomiphene and less by SQ 10.591 and MER 25. The increase of thyroxine binding to adenohypophysial proteins in vitro after oestrogen was influenced in a similar way. Clomiphene and SQ 10.591 increased the weight of the adrenals and reduced the weight of the testes. The weight of the seminal vesicles declined most after clomiphene, less after SQ 10.591 and least after MER 25. In female rats the weight of the adenohypophysis increased considerably after oestrogen, declined slightly after clomiphene and did not change after the other two anti-oestrogens. None of the administered anti-oestrogens prevented the increase in the weight of the adenohypophysis after oestrogen, and with the exception of MER 25, they did not prevent the increase of thyroxine binding to adenohypophysial proteins in vitro. Under the above experimental conditions (large dose of oestrogen), clomiphene seems to be the most effective anti-oestrogen and MER 25 the purest one, i.e. the anti-oestrogen most devoid of oestrogenic activity.
Studies on the Purification of Rat Prolactin from Anterior Pituitary Organ Culture by Preparative Disc Electrophoresis
Authors: Gala R.R.
Published: November 2008

Anterior pituitaries (AP) from female rats were cultured in medium 199 for 3 days and the prolactin released into the medium purified by preparative disc electrophoresis. Medium enriched with prolactin by increasing the AP tissue/medium ratio during culture was layered on top of a 2.5-percent spacer gel and separated in 7.5% gel using 40 mA throughout the experiment. A total of 3.4 mg of prolactin was obtained which was homogenous by both analytical disc electrophoresis and immunodiffusion. The specific prolactin activity was determined by preparing the sample using spectrophotometric and weight methods. In the former case the activity was 28.4 ± 1.6 IU/mg while in the latter case the activity was 24.9 ± 1.9; the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Preparative disc electrophoresis of 3-day culture medium resulted in a prolactin yield of 27 mg/g of wet weight AP. This yield is the highest reported to-date for purified rat prolactin.
Glucose/Insulin Relationships in a Population Sample
Authors: Jackson W.P.U. , Keller P.
Published: November 2008

In the course of a population survey 300 subjects underwent oral glucose tolerance tests which included estimations of plasma glucose and IRI at 0,10, 20, 30, 60, 90, and 120 min. Diabetics had significantly higher mean IRI levels than matched controls, but lower IRI/glucose ratios. Subjects who screened positive but had normal GTT had higher IRI levels than controls, and subjects with borderline GTT had the highest IRI levels of all groups and the highest IRI/glucose ratios. In all groups the IRI levels were positively correlated with weight. All groups showed a significant response of IRI at 10 min, with approximately a 100-percent rise over fasting level. Thus, although the peak level was often delayed in the diabetics, they showed no initial delay. We conclude that the earliest carbohydrate abnormality is an excessive response of insulin to glucose, while diabetes occurs with a moderate fall from this abnormally high level. Analysis of individual IRI curves showed that all types of response occurred in all groups–we could not say that any response was ‘typical’ of diabetes. In general the pattern of IRI response followed that of the glucose curve closely. We present evidence that ‘lag storage curves’ should include only those with glucose peaks at 30 min or earl·’er, and are to be distinguished from ‘borderline’ curves, with 60 or 90-min peak levels.
Effect of Growth Hormone Treatment on Insulin Responsiveness in Tissues of Fasted Hypophysectomized Rats
Authors: Goldman J.K.
Published: November 2008

The metabolism of U-14C-glucose was studied in vitro using diaphragm and adipose tissue from fasted hypophysectomized maintained on cortisone and thyroxine replacement. Treatment with growth hormone did not affect basal glucose metabolism in either tissue and only minimally altered insulin responsiveness of the tissues. The failure of growth hormone to increase insulin resistance suggests that other factors such as diet or hormonal status may be more important in these animals.
A Three-dimensional Damage Model for Transversely Isotropic Composite Laminates
Authors: Maimi P. , Mayugo J.A. , Camanho P.P.
Published: November 2008

This article proposes a fully three-dimensional continuum damage model, developed at the sub-ply level, to predict in an integrated way both the intralaminar and the interlaminar failure mechanisms that occur in laminated fiber-reinforced polymer composites. The constitutive model is based on the assumption that the composite material is transversely isotropic, and accounts for the effects of crack closure under load reversal cycles. The damage model is implemented in an implicit finite element code taking into account the requirement to ensure a mesh-independent computation of the dissipated energy. The comparison between the model predictions and published experimental data indicates that the model can accurately predict the effects of transverse matrix cracks on the residual stiffness of quasi-isotropic laminates, the interaction between transverse matrix cracks and delamination, and final failure of the laminate.
Load Flow in Plain Woven Composites
Authors: Goyal Deepak , Whitcomb John D.
Published: November 2008

The increase in computational power has made performing virtual experiments of various textile architectures using detailed three-dimensional finite element analyses practical. Interpretation of the results remains a challenge. The wealth of raw numerical information provided by the typical finite element analysis provides less basis for developing an intuitive understanding than simpler models. A non-standard technique was developed to understand the mechanics of load flow in plain woven composites. This helped not only highlight the important details, but also transform the massive amount of output data into comprehensible modes of behavior, for example, how the load flows in the tow. Using this technique, the behavior of a plain weave was analyzed extensively. This study showed that in the warp tow of a plain weave, the maximum axial and transverse stress resultants occur at the maximum undulation region. An explanation of this behavior was proposed. The variation in transverse stress resultants was explained by using a simple stress transformation technique. The location of stress concentrations correlated with the variation of the stress resultants. The maximum undulation region was seen to be the most susceptible region to initiate damage under applied in-plane tension as well as shear loading.
The Left Divided: Parties, Unions, and the Resolution of Southern Spain's Agrarian Social Question
Authors: Watson Sara
Published: November 2008

This article challenges dominant explanations in the comparative political economy literature on the origins and purposes of social protection. Far from being a tool of working-class mobilization, social protection in southern Spain was strategically employed by a left party to politically demobilize its supposedly “natural” constituencies. This peculiar outcome is the result of a setting that is common in welfare states outside of northern Europe: the context of a divided left, in which parties and unions are seeking to mobilize different constituencies and in which left parties are themselves divided between moderate and far-left groups. The result in Spain was that social policy became a weapon in parties' efforts to undermine their political competition. This suggests the need to rethink the received wisdom about what the welfare state does to build working-class power in the context of a divided left.