bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EFFECT OF SYNTHETIC LUTEINIZING HORMONE RELEASING HORMONE ON OVULATION DURING THE OESTROUS CYCLE IN THE RAT
Authors: Morishita H. , Mitani H. , Masuda Y. , Higuchi K. , Tomioka M. , Nagamachi N. , Kawamoto M. , Ozasa T. , Adachi H.
Published: December 2008

The effect of synthetic luteinizing hormone releasing hormone (LH-RH) on ovulation has been studied during the oestrous cycle in adult female rats. Ovulation could be induced by the administration of 1 μg synthetic LH-RH at 1:00 a. m. on the day of dioestrus II (lights on from 10:00 p.m. to 10:00 a.m.). At 1:00 a.m. on the day of dioestrus II, the average volume of the largest follicles reached a volume of 83 × 106 μm3 and was three fifth of the volume of that at 6:00 a. m. on the day of pro-oestrus (critical period). These findings suggest that the luteinizing hormone (LH) content in the pituitary gland during the early period of dioestrus II is sufficient to induce ovulation and that the follicles that reach to three fifth of the volume at the critical period are capable of ovulating providing endogenous ovulatory LH released.
SOME ANTIGONADOTROPHIC EFFECTS OF MELATONIN-FREE BOVINE PINEAL EXTRACTS IN RATS
Authors: Orts Richard J. , Benson Bryant , Cook Byron F.
Published: December 2008

Studies were made to determine if a substance other than melatonin was present in bovine pineal gland extracts which possessed properties inhibitory to some gonadotrophin-dependent reproductive parameters in rats. Bovine pineal extracts were partially purified by organic solvent extraction or by ultrafiltration and gel-filtration to exclude melatonin. When administered to rats, the extracts inhibited compensatory ovarian hypertrophy, delayed vaginal opening time and reduced the incidence of constant oestrus. Either of the melatonin-free extracts reduced significantly the concentration of serum luteinizing hormone (LH) in long-term castrate male rats. The data suggest that some substance other than melatonin present in bovine pineal glands has a modifying effect on the reproductive parameters observed probably due to its inhibitory effect on LH.
CALCIUM AND STIMULUS-SECRETION COUPLING IN THE NEUROHYPOPHYSIS
Authors: Russell J. T. , Thorn N. A.
Published: December 2008

Slices of bovine neurohypophyses (wet weight approximately 50 mg), were used as an in vitro model for studying stimulus-secretion coupling for antidiuretic hormone. Release of hormone could be stimulated repeatedly for a period of at least 140 min by a 56 mm K+ medium or in an electrical field. Varying the current caused release of varied amounts of hormone.

Several methods were used in an attempt at demonstrating intra-axonal calcium uptake during stimulated release. Stimulation with a 56 mm potassium medium did not cause any significant increase in the influx of 45Ca2+ measured by conventional technique or in total tissue calcium. Kinetic analyses of 45Ca2+ "desaturation" curves showed that incubation in a 56 mm potassium medium for 30 min did increase the 45Ca2+ in a slowly washed out compartment (presumably intracellular). However, the rate of washout of 45Ca2+ was decreased. Electrical field stimulation caused release of hormone in comparable amounts, but this stimulation did not cause any significant increase in 45Ca2+ in the slowly washed out compartment. Application of the "lanthanum method" of van Breemen and coworkers for studying changes in a calcium compartment that is presumably intracellular, gave the same results as the studies of desaturation curves without lanthanum.

It is suggested that increased 45Ca2+ "uptake" found during stimulation in a 56 mm K+ medium is a phenomenon which cannot be used as evidence that a calcium uptake is essential for release.

Even using these more detailed methods of study, it could thus not be demonstrated that hormone release is always associated with a measurable uptake to the cell interior of calcium. If calcium uptake is obligatory for secretion, it would appear that it is very small. Uptake of a very small amount would, however, be in agreement with recent findings using very special techniques in squid axons. A very small uptake would also agree with recent experiments done in our laboratory in which Ca2+ conductance inhibitors were applied on neurohypophyseal tissue.
DOWN'S SYNDROME. STUDY OF CARBOHYDRATE METABOLISM
Authors: Raiti Salvatore , Lifschitz Fima , Trias Estrellita , Sigman Bernice
Published: December 2008

Eight adolescent patients with Down's syndrome and short stature were studied. Three of the 8 patients had inadequate plasma insulin response to glucose or to arginine stimulation. The glucose disappearance rate in one of them followed a diabetic pattern. Exogenous insulin disappeared with a mean t½ of 13 min, and the Kt for glucose was 2.276. We conclude that the abnormalities in insulin production and glucose disappearance in a few of the patients suggests a possible diabetic tendency. The short stature and delayed puberty were not due to pituitary deficiency of growth hormone or of gonadotrophins.
NOCTURNAL PLASMA INSULIN LEVELS IN COWS WITH VARYING LEVELS OF PLASMA KETONE BODIES; RELATIONS TO PLASMA SUGAR AND ACETOACETATE
Authors: Hove Knut
Published: December 2008

The interrelations of plasma values of insulin, sugar and acetoacetate (AcAc) have been investigated on nocturnal blood samples from 544 dairy cows at different stages of lactation. A wide range of plasma levels was observed (plasma sugar 42–106 mg/100 ml, insulin 0.3–2.2 ng/ml, AcAc 0.05–27 mg/100 ml). Nocturnal samples were taken to exclude as much as possible variations in plasma components induced by feeding.

The following correlations were found: sugar/insulin r = 0.45, P < 0.001; insulin/AcAc r=–0.23 (P <0.001); sugar/AcAc r=–0.61 (P <0.001). The partial correlation between insulin and AcAc was not significant (r = 0.07) when glucose was eliminated. A simultaneous decrease in plasma insulin and sugar was found, hypoglycaemic cows having the lowest insulin levels. It is concluded that this decreased insulin level is probably of importance in facilitating lipolysis during hypoglycaemia, thus being a prerequisite for the development of ketosis.

Ten cows were sampled twice, one sample being taken before partus and the other during the 45 first days of lactation. After the onset of lactation indications of a more diabetic metabolism was found. The mean plasma insulin level was reduced from 1.3 to 0.6 ng/ml; a significant fall in plasma sugar and a rise in AcAc was also observed.

Nine samples from cows developing ketosis and 23 with elevated AcAc levels, but without clinical symptoms, were compared to 26 samples of cows with low AcAc levels from the same herds and in the same stage of lactation. The mean insulin levels were 0.42, 0.52 and 0.71 ng/ml, and sugar 50.5, 59.5 and 73.6 mg/100 ml, respectively. It is concluded that the low insulin values found in the samples from the ketotic cows were due to reduced glucose stimulation of the pancreatic β-cells.
A NEW APPROACH FOR INVESTIGATING HYPOTHALAMO-PITUITARY-GONADAL AND ADRENAL FEEDBACK CONTROL MECHANISMS: ACTIVE IMMUNIZATION WITH STEROIDS
Authors: Nieschlag E. , Usadel K. H. , Kley H. K. , Schwedes U. , Schöffling K. , Krüskemper H. L.
Published: December 2008

A new method for the investigation of hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal and adrenal feedback control mechanisms based on the biological neutralization of gonadal and adrenal steroids by active immunization is proposed. The regulatory influence of a given steroid in the feedback control is proved when reduction of the free, biologically active fraction of this steroid caused by antibody binding induces a positive response of the pituitary, thus effecting gonadal or adrenal hypertrophy and hyperfunction. The advantages and limitations of the new model are demonstrated by the effects of active immunization of rabbits with cortisol (F), aldosterone (Aldo), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHA), androstenedione (Δ4-A), testosterone (T), 5α-dihydrotestosterone (5α-DHT), 5β-DHT and oestradiol (E2). In the immunized animals and in a control group serum concentrations of total corticosteroids (TC), DHA, T, Δ4-A, E1, E2, LH and FSH, the percentage of binding of steroids in serum and the specificity of the antisera are determined. The testes are evaluated by histometry and the nuclear volume of the adrenocortical and Leydig cells is measured.
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE NUCLEAR AND MICROSOMAL STEROID Δ4-5α-HYDROGENASE OF THE RAT PROSTATE
Authors: Nozu Kaoru , Tamaoki Bun-ichi
Published: December 2008

Steroid Δ4-5α-hydrogenase was intracellularly localized in the nuclear and microsomal fractions of the rat ventral prostate (Nozu Sc Tamaoki 1973). The nuclear Δ4-5α-hydrogenase was found to have the following enzymatic properties essentially similar to the microsomal Δ4-5α-hydrogenase, with regard to the metabolism of [4-14C] testosterone in the presence of NADPH: The optimum pH of the enzymes in the two fractions was around 7.0 and the maximal conversion rates were obtained at a temperature of 35 to 40°C. The apparent Km values of the nuclear and microsomal Δ4-5α-hydrogenases were estimated respectively as 1.05 and 0.90 μmol/l, while the Km value of the hepatic microsomal Δ4-5α-hydrogenase was simultaneously estimated as 154 μmol/l. Among steroids, the most potent inhibitor group on the enzymatic 5α-hydrogenation of testosterone was Δ 4-3-oxo-C-21 steroids such as progesterone and 17α-hydroxyprogesterone, which were competitively converted into their 5α-hydrogenated metabolites in the highest rates. Among some anti-androgens, cyproterone and its acetate hardly inhibited the activities of the nuclear and microsomal enzymes, whereas etienic acid (4-androsten-3-one-17β-carboxylic acid), oestradiol-17β and diethylstilboestrol markedly inhibited both prostatic enzymes in a competitive manner. The Ki values of etienic acid, oestradiol-17β and diethylstilboestrol for the nuclear Δ4-5α-hydrogenase were respectively 1.50, 0.49 and 1.02 μmol/l, indicating similar affinities of these for the nuclear enzyme to that of testosterone.
BIOASSAY OF ANTIGONADOTROPHIC SERA
Authors: Romaní P. , Robyn C. , Petrusz P. , Diczfalusy E.
Published: December 2008

Data are presented on the reliability of the previously described bioassay of gonadotrophin neutralizing potency of antisera raised against HCG preparations. The sensitivity of the method may be defined as the smallest detectable neutralizing activity expressed in anti-units (AU). This depends partly on the bioassay system used, and partly on the intended percentage of neutralization. In the HCG bioassay used in the present study, and around 50 % neutralization, the smallest detectable neutralizing activity is about 1.0 AU. The sensitivity decreases with increasing levels of neutralization: it is about 9 AU around 90% neutralization. The precision as given by the mean index of precision (λ) was 0.12 in 52 assays. The 95 % fiducial limits expressed as a percentage of the mean potency estimate ranged from 65.8 % to 125.7% in 52 assays conducted at 50 % and from 89.1% to 105.3% in 25 assays conducted at 90% intended neutralization. Reproducibility: eighteen antisera raised in 18 rabbits against 9 HCG preparations were assayed at 50% intended neutralization repeatedly (at least twice each antiserum) in 52 assays. Only one antiserum showed significant heterogeneity among repeated estimates by a χ2 test. The achieved neutralization ranged from 36 % to 79 % with a mean of 50 %.

The neutralizing potency estimates of 19 antisera raised in 19 rabbits against 10 HCG preparations in 45 assays at 50% intended neutralization and in 25 assays at 90 % intended neutralization were also compared. These potency estimates were in close agreement with each other at both levels of neutralization (except for one antiserum) as evidenced by the results of χ2 test and the value of the correlation coefficient obtained (r = 0.99). It is concluded that "the principle of simple additivity" is a satisfactory approximation to represent the antigen - antibody reaction involved in the neutralization of the biological activity of HCG preparations.
METABOLISM OF [4-14C]CHOLESTEROL BY HUMAN ADRENAL GLANDS IN VITRO AND ITS INHIBITION BY METYRAPONE
Authors: Carballeira Andres , Cheng Su Chiau , Fishman Lawrence M.
Published: December 2008

The in vitro conversion of [4-14C] cholesterol1) to steroid hormones was studied in 1 normal, 1 adenomatous and 2 hyperplastic, surgically resected, human adrenals. The degree of overall conversion per gram of tissue was similar (4.4–5.6 %) in NADPH-supplemented homogenates from normal or moderately hyperactive adrenals; a 2-fold increase was found in a markedly hyperfunctioning gland. Only labelled cortisol, corticosterone, 11-deoxycortisol, 11-deoxycorticosterone and androstenedione were isolated from incubations with [4-14C] cholesterol, but cortisol accounted for slightly more than 50 % of overall substrate conversion in the normal adrenal, while 11-deoxycortisol and androstenedione predominated in the abnormal glands. "Apparent 11β-hydroxylase activity" was considerably lower in the abnormal glands than in normal tissue when assessed using [4-14C] cholesterol as substrate, but this deficit was not observed in comparable incubations with 14C-labelled pregnenolone, progesterone or 11-deoxycorticosterone. [4-14C] Cholesterol was a more efficient precursor of androstenedione than either [4-14C] pregnenolone or [4-14C] progesterone.

In parallel studies, metyrapone (1.0 mm) depressed the formation of both 11-oxy and 11-deoxymetabolies from [4-14C] cholesterol, overall inhibition ranging from 66 to 86%. The conversion of [4-14C] 11-deoxycorticosterone to corticosterone was inhibited by 93 % under identical conditions. Metyrapone did not, however, impair the overall transformation of either [4-14C]pregnenolone or [4-14C]progesterone, since the inhibition of cortisol and corticosterone biosynthesis was associated with an increment in 11-deoxycortisol (with [4-14C] pregnenolone) or 11-deoxycorticosterone (with [4-14C]progesterone). From these studies it appears likely that the additional site of metyrapone inhibition of steroid biosynthesis suggested by others on the basis of clinical observations involves the rate-limiting, ACTH-regulated conversion of cholesterol to pregnenolone.
PITUITARY-THYROID FUNCTION AFTER TOTAL ADRENALECTOMY IN PATIENTS WITH CUSHING'S DISEASE
Authors: Blichert-Toft Mogens , Hummer Lotte , Dige-Petersen Harriet
Published: December 2008

In patients with untreated Cushing's disease decreased thyroid function has been demonstrated by several investigators. An inhibiting effect of glucocorticosteroids on the release of thyrotrophin seems to be the cause. In the treated patient with remission of the disease the pituitary-thyroid function has not been studied in detail. The question is, if the hypofunction proved in the untreated state might persist in the treated patient. This might be anticipated from both clinical and experimental studies.

In the present study the pituitary-thyroid function has been determined after total adrenalectomy followed by remission in 14 patients with Cushing's disease. All patients were replaced adequately with cortisone acetate post-operatively as estimated by excretion of cortisol in urine. Levels of serum thyroxine, thyroxine-binding globulin, and serum thyrotrophin were measured. In addition, tracer studies were performed. The 131I-uptake in the thyroid gland and plasma protein-bound radioiodine were determined. After thyrotrophin-stimulation test, the thyroxine reserve and the rise in 131I-uptake in the gland were measured. TRH-stimulation test was performed to determine the TSH-reserve. A normal pituitary-thyroid function and a normal pituitary and thyroid reserve were demonstrated.

In the conclusion it can be said that decreased pituitary-thyroid function or reserve has not been found in the Cushing-patient subjected to adrenalectomy followed by remission. Thus, thyroid replacement therapy has not to be considered, when an adequate replacement therapy is planned after total adrenalectomy.
THE INTERACTION OF DIHYDROTESTOSTERONE AND OESTRADIOL-17β WITH MACROMOLECULES IN HUMAN HYPERPLASTIC PROSTATE TISSUE
Authors: Fraser H. M. , Mitchell Angela J. H. , Anderson C. K. , Oakey R. E.
Published: December 2008

During incubation of minced human hyperplastic prostate tissue with [3H]5α-dihydrotestosterone (27 nm), 3H became firmly bound to macromolecules in both cytosol and nucleus. The binding to the cytosol fraction was inhibited when oestradiol-17β (0.3 μm), oestrone sulphate, ethinyl-oestradiol-17β or diethylstilboestrol (10 μm) was included in the incubation. Binding to the nuclei was inhibited by incubation with oestradiol-17β (1 μm) or cyproterone acetate (6.5 μm), a potent anti-androgen, but not by incubation with cortisol (30 μm).
CIRCULATING LUTEINIZING HORMONE AND TESTOSTERONE RESPONSE IN RAMS AFTER LUTEINIZING HORMONE RELEASING HORMONE TREATMENT
Authors: Galloway D. B. , Cotta Y. , Pelletier J. , Terqui M.
Published: December 2008

The relationship between the secretions of LH and testosterone after LH-RH administration was tested in entire rams. Three groups of two rams received, intravenously, 100 μg; 800 μg LH-RH in single injection; or 100 μg × 7 injections at half-hour intervals respectively and samples were collected every 10 or 20 min for 6 hours. Plasma LH and testosterone were assayed by radioimmunoassay. The quantity of LH released following 800 μg LH-RH was higher than released after 100 μg LH-RH and there was a positive correlation between the total amount of LH released after LH-RH and the amount of testosterone released. It seems probable that the pre-injection level of testosterone regulates in a quantitative manner the effect of a given dose of LH-RH. In the case of successive injections of LH-RH, the plasma LH rose to a plateau but the last two treatments failed to prevent the decline in the level of LH. This suggests that testosterone, still high at the time, directly blocked the effect of LH-RH at the level of the pituitary.
PEPTIDASE ACTIVITY IN DIFFERENT AREAS OF THE RAT HYPOTHALAMUS
Authors: Griffiths E. C. , Hooper K. C.
Published: December 2008

To provide further information on the function of peptidases present in the rat hypothalamus which are capable of inactivating oxytocin, these enzymes' activity was investigated in anterior, middle and posterior hypothalamic areas of normal male and female rats, gonadectomized rats and rats gonadectomized and injected with gonadal steroids (oestradiol in female animals, testosterone in males). Peptidase activity in the supernatant fraction was distributed unevenly through the hypothalamus with the majority of activity in the anterior and middle areas from both sexes; particulate peptidase activity occurred principally in the middle and posterior areas. Gonadectomy selectively decreased supernatant activity in the anterior and middle areas, whereas steroid treatment reversed this effect, but neither caused any change in particulate activity from female rats and only small changes in male animals. These results are interpreted as indicating a selective distribution of supernatant peptidase activity in those hypothalamic areas responsible for luteinizing hormone – releasing factor (LRF) synthesis and release, and confirming previous findings that this fraction may be involved in LRF metabolism. They may also suggest the sites of gonadal steroid feedback at the hypothalamic level.
THE EFFECT OF EPINEPHRINE ON THE UPTAKE OF 131I BY THE RAT THYROID, WITH PARTICULAR REFERENCE TO THE TRAPPING PROCESS
Authors: Joasoo A. , Murray I. P. C.
Published: December 2008

Epinephrine in doses of 1–200 μg/100 g body weight sc decreased the 131I uptake by the rat thyroid gland in a dose-related manner. A minimal effect was observed as long as 16 h after the injection of 100 μg/100 g. The serum total 131I level was initially higher in epinephrine-treated rats, showing that the decreased uptake was not secondary to an effect on extrathyroidal iodide metabolism.

The trapping of 131I was studied by measuring the thyroid/serum ratio in rats in which organification of iodide had been blocked by propyl-thiouracil. The trapping of 99mTcO4− was studied in rats with unblocked glands. Both 131I and 99mTcO4− trapping was decreased by epinephrine (100 μg/100 g sc) to approximately one half–one third of the control value for at least 1 h. It is concluded that the decrease in 131I uptake can be at least partly attributed to decreased trapping, but the more prolonged decrease in 131I uptake cannot be explained on the basis of present data.
THE HORMONE SYNTHESIS OF HYPERFUNCTIONING THYROID NODULES IN EUTHYROID PATIENTS
Authors: Agerbæk Hans
Published: December 2008

Among fifty consecutive patients operated on for non-toxic goitre, ten were shown to have solitary, hyperfunctioning thyroid nodules.

Seven days before operation the patients were given a tracerdose of Na125I orally; all had an increased iodine discharge from the thyroid gland and elevated [125I]PBI. Chromatography of the sera revealed 125I peaks corresponding only to the T4 and T3 bands.

Total 1251 concentration ratio nodular/paranodular tissue varied between 11.1 and 0.4 indicating a great variation in metabolic activity in "hot" nodules in the different goitres. The thyroid tissue was chromatographically investigated; the [125I]MIT/DIT ratio of the "hot" nodules was not negatively correlated to the 127I concentration of the tissue as is the case for "cold" adenomata. Significantly more [125I]T4 and [125I]T3 were found in the nodules compared to paranodular tissue.

In contrast to simple non-toxic goitre the [125I]T3/T4 ratio in the "hot" nodules was lower than in paranodular tissue in spite of a lower 127I concentration in the former. Thus the hormone synthesis of "hot" nodules was unrelated to tissue iodine concentration.
EFFECT OF ACTINOMYCIN D ON TSH-INDUCED STIMULATION OF THYROIDAL PROTEIN SYNTHESIS IN THE RAT
Authors: Wägar Gustav
Published: December 2008

Whether the short-term regulation of thyroidal protein synthesis by TSH occurs at the transcriptional or the translational level was tested by measuring the effect of actinomycin D (act D) on the TSH-induced stimulation of L-14C-leucine incorporation into the thyroidal proteins of rats. TSH was injected 6 h before the rats were killed. The thyroid glands were then removed and incubated in vitro in the presence of L-14C-leucine for 2 h. The pronounced stimulation of leucine incorporation in the TSH-treated animals was depressed as compared with controls but still significant even when the animals had been pre-treated with 100 μg act D 24 and 7 h before sacrifice. On the other hand, act D strongly decreased incorporation of 3H-uridine into RNA. Short-term regulation of thyroidal protein synthesis by TSH appears to be partly but not wholly dependent on neosynthesis of RNA. Hence regulation may partly occur at the translation level of protein synthesis.
GLUCOSE METABOLISM IN TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY
Authors: Keymolen-Jardini V. , Mouawad E. , Claeys-De Clercq P. , Van Laer E. , Levin S. , Borkowski A.
Published: December 2008

The present study was designed to evaluate some key metabolic parameters in patients suffering from a traumatic brain contusion with coma. This evaluation was carried out before and during an intravenous glucose tolerance test (iv – GTT) in 6 male patients paired with normal controls Four patients presented a fasting hyperglycaemia and a low K rate of glucose disappearance but the basal level of insulin was normal or high and the insulin response to the glucose load was not significantly impaired. The basal level of plasma growth hormone (HGH) was usually normal but it increased paradoxically during the iv – GTT; 2 patients had a striking hyper-response. Plasma cortisol levels were always elevated. On the other hand no gross or systematic anomaly in the regulation of plasma free fatty acids, acetoacetate and amino nitrogen was detected. The paradoxical HGH response was the only finding which could be specifically attributed to the central neural lesions.
PROGESTERONE IN THE UTERUS
Authors: Egert D. , Maass H.
Published: December 2008

The radioactive substances obtained from subcellular uterine fractions and from plasma were separated and identified by analytical TLC's, chemical reactions and crystallization to constant activity 5 min, 20 min and 3 h after the injection of [1,2-3H]progesterone into oestradiol-primed castrated Wistar rats. It was found that the radioactive progesterone remained unchanged in all uterine fractions during these times. In plasma, metabolites were found 5 min, 20 min and 3 h after injection of labelled progesterone. In these studies radio-metabolites of progesterone could not be observed in the uterus of normal rats under the applied conditions, but only in the plasma.
CHEMICAL DETERMINATION OF OESTROGEN DISTRIBUTION IN THE FOETUS AND PLACENTA OF THE DOMESTIC PIG
Authors: Choong C. H. , Raeside J. I.
Published: December 2008

The concentrations of oestrogens and solvolyzable oestrogen conjugates have been estimated chemically in extracts of different foetal organs and of placental tissues of the domestic pig during late stages of pregnancy. Unconjugated oestrogens were not detected (< 0.5 μg/100 g wet weight of tissues) in foetal adrenals, ovaries and testes, nor in foetal spleen. Oestrogen concentrations were low in foetal heart.

Foetal placenta, maternal placenta and uterine tissues were analyzed separately. There was a higher oestrogen concentration in foetal (176.3 μg/100 g) than in maternal (74.0 μg/100 g) placenta. In placental tissues oestrogens were present mainly as unconjugated steroids while a greater proportion was found as conjugates in uterine tissues. The mean concentrations of unconjugated oestrogens and oestrogen sulphates respectively were 111.9 and 66.5 μg/100 g, for foetal placenta; 57.9 and 16.5 μg/100 g, for maternal placenta; and 3.1 and 7.1 μg/100 g, for uterine tissues. Greater oestrogen concentrations were noted in the foetal placenta and fluids from males than from females; the total oestrogen concentrations for male and female samples respectively were 235.5 and 121.2 μg/100 g, for foetal placenta; and 815.7 and 454.7 μg/100 ml, for foetal fluids. Oestrogens were present mostly as conjugates in various foetal tissues.

The mean oestrogen concentrations for unconjugated and solvolyzable forms respectively were 45.2 and 80.9 μg/100 g, for liver; 26.0 and 42.4 μg/100 g, for kidneys; 14.6 and 38.5 μg/100 g, for lungs; and 10.9 and 29.4 μg/100 g, for skin. Unconjugated oestrogens predominated, however, in intestinal tissues and meconium. Mean concentrations of unconjugated and conjugated oestrogens respectively were 256.1 and 98.2 μg/100 g, for small intestine; 531.8 and 132.1 μg/100 g, for large intestine; and 2152.2 and 137.2 μg/100 g, for meconium.

Oestrone was the major oestrogen found. Lesser amounts of oestradiol-17β were present.
THE EFFECT OF EFFERENT DUCT LIGATION ON THE UPTAKE OF 65Zn BY THE EPIDIDYMIS AND VAS DEFERENS OF RHESUS MONKEYS (MACACA MULATTA)
Authors: Roy S. K. , Setty B. S. , Chandra Harish , Kar Amiya B.
Published: December 2008

The uptake of 65Zn by different segments of the epididymis (caput, proximal corpus, distal corpus and cauda) and vas deferens of rhesus monkeys was investigated. The vas showed maximum accumulation as compared to different parts of the epididymis. Ligation of the efferent ducts of the testis for 90 days resulted in the absence of sperms with a corresponding decrease in 65Zn uptake in the epididymis and vas deferens. The latter, however, continued to show a relatively higher uptake than the epididymis. The significance of these findings is discussed.
RELATION OF TSH CONCENTRATION IN BLOOD TO THE RADIOACTIVE RUBIDIUM 86Rb UPTAKE IN THE THYROID GLAND OF RATS: EVIDENCE OF TSH REGULATORY EFFECT ON THYROID GLAND BLOOD FLOW
Authors: Kapitola J. , Schüllerová M. , Schreiberová O. , Vilimovská D. , Josífko M.
Published: December 2008

To study the relations between thyroid gland blood flow and the concentration of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in rats, a graded concentration of endogenous TSH was induced: for a period of 10 days, methylthiouracil was added to the food (Alkiron, Spofa, 0.2%) and in addition, in the respective groups, dried thyroid gland preparation (Thyreoidin, Spofa) in concentrations of 0.01, 0.02, 0.03, 0.04 and 0.05%.

The concentration of TSH was estimated by means of the McKenzie bioassay (results are given in the percentile response index). In addition, the relative weight of the thyroid gland (in mg per 100 g of body weight) was followed and the tissue uptake of radioactive rubidium 86Rb (in % of dose per 1 g of tissue) was recorded as an indicator of changes in the thyroid gland blood flow. The experiment was repeated 3 times in exactly the same way. The course of the changes in groups fed dried thyroid from 0.01 up to 0.05 % was evaluated by means of a regression analysis. Regression lines for the same index (i. e. concentration of TSH, relative weight of the thyroid gland and uptake of 86Rb) in each particular experiment were parallel, i. e. the course of the changes for all 3 repeated experiments was identical. Regression coefficients for all the 3 indices were significantly different from zero. The values for all 3 indices then showed a statistically significant decrease concomitantly with the rising concentration of dried thyroid gland in the food, the course of the changes being very similar. Changes in the uptake of 86Rb in the thyroid gland that are in agreement with changes in the concentration of endogenous TSH are considered as further evidence of a TSH regulatory effect on the thyroid gland blood flow.
DEFECTIVE STEROIDAL SYNTHESIS BY ADRENAL TISSUE: THE CONTROL OF GENE EXPRESSION CAUSING LOSS OF ACTIVE STEROIDOGENIC ENZYMES
Authors: Williams K.
Published: December 2008

RNA was isolated from normal human adrenal glands and found to cause the formation of Δ5-3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase-isomerase and steroid 21-hydroxylase activities by a Krebs II ascites cell-free protein synthesising system. Although no functional steroid 21-hydroxylase in vivo or in vitro was found in a gland from a patient with virilism due to congenital adrenocortical hyperplasia the RNA would still give steroid 21-hydroxylase-like activity in the protein synthesising system which suggests that the inherited defect was not in the structural gene. Activity could not be induced by RNA from a 'non-functioning' adrenocortical tumour or rat liver.
BODY PROPORTIONS AND ANDROGENICITY IN RELATION TO PLASMA TESTOSTERONE LEVELS IN KLINEFELTER'S SYNDROME
Authors: Smals A. G. H. , Kloppenborg P. W. C. , Benraad T. J.
Published: December 2008

Basal plasma testosterone levels (mean ± sd 290 ± 141 ng/100 ml) (range 72–684 ng/100 ml) in 25 chromatin positive patients with Klinefelter's syndrome (23 XXY, 1 XXYY, 1 XY/XXY) were significantly lower than in 25 age matched controls (mean ± sd 603 ± 169 ng/100 ml). In 11 out of the 25 Klinefelter patients however, plasma testosterone levels were in the normal range and these patients differed significantly from the patients with low testosterone levels with respect to the clinical state of androgenicity. In the group of Klinefelter patients, but not in the controls, a significant negative correlationship was found between plasma testosterone levels and each of the variables: body weight, arm span, length of the lower body segment and the ratio's lower/upper and span/upper body segment.
RADIOIMMUNOASSAY OF THYROTROPHIN RELEASING HORMONE (TRH)
Authors: Visser T. J. , Docter R. , Hennemann G.
Published: December 2008

Immunization of rabbits with a conjugate in which L-pGlu-L-His-L-Pro-NH2 (TRH) at the amide side has been coupled to bovine serum albumin (BSA) yielded anti-TRH antibody which was detected by reaction of diluted antiserum with 3H-TRH.

A double antibody radioimmunoassay has been developed in which 100 pg unlabelled TRH could be detected.

Several analogues tested showed that only pGlu-His-Pro-OMe possessed comparable reactivity, while all the other compounds exhibited very little activity in the assay.
EFFECT OF SYNTHETIC LUTEINIZING HORMONE-RELEASING HORMONE (LH-RH) ON THE RELEASE OF GONADOTROPHINS IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS. VI. RELATIONS TO AGE, SEX AND PUBERTY
Authors: Gamier Philippe E. , Chaussain Jean-Louis , Binet Elisabeth , Schlumberger Ariane , Job Jean-Claude
Published: December 2008

Plasma gonadotrophins (LH and FSH) were radio-immunoassayed before and after injection of 0.1 mg/m2 of synthetic luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LH-RH) in infants 1 to 12 months old, prepubertal children aged more than 12 months, and pubertal subjects of both sexes. The pubertal changes of gonadotrophins include a highly significant increase of LH pituitary mobilizable reserve in both sexes, while the FSH reserve shows a significant decrease in females and no significant variation in males. From the first year of life up to childhood, the basal blood levels of FSH and LH decrease significantly in girls but do not vary in boys, while the FSH reserve decreases significantly in girls and increases significantly in boys, the LH reserve showing a non-significant decrease in both sexes. In the first year of life, girls show a very significantly higher FSH secretion and reserve than boys, while boys have a significantly higher LH reserve than girls. After the end of the first year up to the onset of puberty, the FSH reserve remains significantly higher in girls than in boys. The interpretation of these facts is discussed.
THE PRESENCE OF PEPTIDASES IN THE RAT HYPOTHALAMUS INACTIVATING LUTEINIZING HORMONE RELEASING HORMONE (LH-RH)
Authors: Griffiths E. C. , Hooper K. C. , Jeffcoate S. L. , Holland D. T.
Published: December 2008

The presence of peptidases in the rat hypothalamus inactivating luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LH-RH) has previously been demonstrated using an indirect assay method. With the development of a sensitive and specific radioimmunoassay for the releasing hormone, this technique was employed in the study of the peptidases inactivating LH-RH. It was found that supernatant fractions from both male and female rat hypothalami rapidly inactivated LH-RH, and that the peptidase activity of the supernatant fraction was higher in male than in female animals though the particulate fraction's activity was about the same in both sexes. Peptidase activity was also considerably greater in the supernatant than in the particulate fraction. These results confirm that the hypothalamus contains peptidases capable of inactivating LH-RH and give a direct indication that the enzymes may be involved in the central nervous system's control of reproductive function.
CALCIUM AND STIMULUS-SECRETION COUPLING IN THE NEUROHYPOPHYSIS
Authors: Russell J. T. , Hansen E. L. , Thorn N. A.
Published: December 2008

Isolated halved rat neurohypophyses were incubated in a calcium-free medium with the Ca2+ ionophore A-23187 (2×10−5m/1). When calcium was added to the medium, a marked increase of vasopressin release occurred. Addition of ionophore to the medium caused an increased efflux of 45Ca2+ with which the tissue had been labelled previously.
TRANSSPHENOIDAL SUBTOTAL HYPOPHYSECTOMY IN THE TREATMENT OF ACROMEGALY
Authors: Bøhmer Thomas , Berdal Peter , Haugen Harry N.
Published: December 2008

Twentythree patients with acromegaly have been treated with transsphenoidal subtotal hypophysectomy, median observation time being 36 months.

All the patients had an immediate relief of tissue pressure and oedema. Sixteen patients (70%) showed a complete recovery with regression of clinical symptoms and reduction of fasting growth hormone levels to normal levels (≤ 6 ng/ml). Three patients had a temporary improvement post-operatively with normal growth hormone levels which again slowly increased. Four patients had an incomplete improvement and a reduction in growth hormone levels to < 50 ng/ml.

There was no serious complication. One patient showed post-operatively a partial visual defect which was normalized on re-operation.
EFFECTS OF TESTOSTERONE PROPIONATE, 5α-DIHYDROTESTOSTERONE PROPIONATE AND OESTRADIOL BENZOATE ON SERUM LEVELS OF LH AND FSH IN THE CASTRATED ADULT MALE RAT
Authors: Verjans H. L. , Eik-Nes K. B. , Aafjes J. H. , Vels F. J. M. , van der Molen H. J.
Published: December 2008

The influence of treatment with various doses of testosterone propionate, 5α-dihydrotestosterone propionate or oestradiol benzoate on serum levels of LH and FSH (measured by radioimmunoassay) and on weights of ventral prostates and seminal vesicles was investigated in castrated, adult, male rats. For depression of the high, castrate levels of serum gonadotrophins with either of these steroid esters, the inhibition curves were different for LH and for FSH. Serum LH was kept at levels encountered in intact, adult, male rats by lower doses of steroid ester than was serum FSH. Oestradiol benzoate was the most potent suppressor of the serum gonadotrophins among the steroid esters tested, testosterone propionate the least. Treatment with low doses of oestradiol benzoate, however, resulted in serum FSH levels significantly above those of castrates treated with vehicle only. Finally, administration of a synthetic LH-releasing factor to testosterone propionate, 5α-dihydrotestosterone propionate or oestradiol benzoate treated, castrated, adult, male rats resulted in a further release of both LH and FSH. The latter effect was more pronounced in oestradiol benzoate treated castrates than in testosterone propionate or 5α-dihydrotestosterone propionate treated castrates.
CALCIUM AND STIMULUS-SECRETION COUPLING IN THE NEUROHYPOPHYSIS
Authors: Russell J. T. , Warberg J. , Thorn N. A.
Published: December 2008

Groups of isolated hemilobes of rat neurohypophyses were incubated in a medium. When N-ethylmaleimide (1 or 10 mm) was added to the medium for 10 min a prolonged increase in vasopressin release occurred. This was correlated in time with an increase in efflux of 45Ca2+ with which the tissue had been labelled previously. When the hemilobes were labelled with 45Ca2+ in the presence of 10 mm NEM a much faster washout of the isotope than in control experiments was seen. It is suggested that NEM interferes with processes that normally keep the intracellular concentration of free Ca2+ in the nerve endings at a low value.
PLASMA GLUCOSE, INSULIN AND FREE FATTY ACIDS DURING LONG-TERM CORTICOSTEROID TREATMENT IN CHILDREN
Authors: Gács Gábor , Berend Katalin
Published: December 2008

The effect of long-term corticosteroid treatment on glucose-insulin-free fatty acid interrelationships was studied in 25 children. The fasting blood glucose level and glucose tolerance after oral glucose administration were normal in all cases. The mean plasma insulin concentration on the other hand was significantly higher during the glucose tolerance tests. Free fatty acid levels were moderately lower in the fasting plasma and significantly lower 30 min after glucose administration. This shift in the balance between the changes studied may contribute to the fat deposition often seen during corticosteroid treatment. There was no correlation between the actual dose of the drug and the insulin levels. Children – even if treated with corticosteroids for years – are able to maintain a normal glucose tolerance as a result of a continuous elevated insulin level. Arginine stimulation also resulted in a trend to higher insulin levels in the corticosteroid treated group but the difference from the normal was much smaller than after glucose administration.
THE EFFECT OF OESTROGEN ADMINISTRATION ON PLASMA TESTOSTERONE, FSH AND LH LEVELS IN PATIENTS WITH KLINEFELTER'S SYNDROME AND NORMAL MEN
Authors: Smals A. G. H. , Kloppenborg P. W. C. , Lequin R. M. , Benraad Th. J.
Published: December 2008

In 6 eugonadal males and 6 patients with Klinefelter's syndrome the effect of increasing amounts of ethinyloestradiol (EE) (15, 30 and 150 μg daily for 7 days) on plasma levels of LH, FSH and testosterone was studied. Control levels of LH and FSH in the Klinefelter patients were significantly higher than in the normal males, whereas plasma testosterone levels were significantly lower. In 3 of the 6 Klinefelter patients plasma gonadotrophin levels were clearly elevated despite normal plasma testosterone concentrations. After EE administration a dose-dependent decrease of plasma FSH and testosterone levels was observed in both the control subjects and the Klinefelter patients, whereas the LH decrease was dose-dependent in the Klinefelter patients, but not however, in the eugonadal males. Despite significant testosterone suppression plasma LH and FSH levels in the Klinefelter patients remained supranormal when compared with the levels of the control subjects. Amounts of EE, roughly equivalent to the physiological oestrogen production (15 μg of EE daily) in men, decreased plasma LH and testosterone levels in the normal males, not however, in the Klinefelter patients. The suppression of plasma testosterone by EE in both the normal subjects and the Klinefelter patients could readily be overcome by exogenous gonadotrophin administration, favouring the concept that the EE induced testosterone decrease is predominantly gonadotrophin mediated. It is concluded that small amounts of oestrogens play a role in the pituitary-gonadal axis in normal males. Although higher doses are needed to modulate this axis in Klinefelter's syndrome, the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal feedback in this disorder is still operative, though at a higher setting.
THE UPTAKE OF CERTAIN STEROID HORMONES BY INTACT HUMAN ERYTHROCYTES THE INFLUENCE OF HAEMOGLOBIN GENOTYPE
Authors: Sogbesan A. O. , Adadevoh B. Kwaku , Dada O. A.
Published: December 2008

The steroid uptake by intact erythrocytes of different haemoglobin genotypes - Hb-AA, Hb-AS and Hb-SS was studied. Erythrocytes of all genotypes demonstrated a large capacity for the uptake of steroids. There was no significant difference in the uptake of cortisol1), androstenedione and oestrone by the erythrocytes of the different haemoglobin genotypes studied. The Hb-SS erythrocytes, however, retained significantly greater amounts of testosterone, oestradiol and progesterone as compared with Hb-AA erythrocytes. Since, however, except for oestradiol, the reversal of the sickling phenomenon in Hb-SS disease has been reported for these steroids, their enhanced uptake may play a role in this phenomenon.
AFFINITY AND SPECIFICITY OF ANTISERA AGAINST HUMAN FSH AND TSH OBTAINED BY IMMUNIZING RABBITS WITH HIGHLY PURIFIED HORMONE PREPARATIONS
Authors: Torjesen P. A. , Sand T.
Published: December 2008

Two groups of 4 rabbits were immunized according to the method described by Vaitukaitis et al. (1971). One group was given 55 μg (900 IU) FSH/animal and the other 100 μg (0.5 IU) TSH/animal. Two highly specific antisera against FSH and one specific antiserum against TSH were obtained. The FSH antisera showed affinities towards LH and TSH of 0.13 and 0.25% respectively as compared to that of FSH. The TSH antisera showed affinities towards LH and FSH of 2.2 and 1.7 % respectively as compared to that of TSH. The specific antisera showed no or minor affinities towards the LH-α subunit and they were sufficient specific to be used in the radioimmunoassay of serum from pregnant women without pre-absorption with HCG. Scatchard plots showed the association constants of the FSH antisera to be 1.3 × 1011 and 1.2 × 1011 1/mol respectively, and the association constant of the TSH antiserum to be 6 × 1010 l/mol. All 3 antisera showed high titers.
DOSE-DEPENDENT EFFECTS OF ETHINYLOESTRADIOL, DIETHYLSTILBOESTROL AND OESTRADIOL ON THE METABOLISM OF 4-ANDROSTENE-3, 17-DIONE IN RAT LIVER MICROSOMES
Authors: Einarsson Kurt , Gustafsson Jan-Åke , Sjövall Jan , Zietz Eberhard
Published: December 2008

The effects of administration of ethinyloestradiol (EtE2), 0.1, 0.5 or 1 μg per day, diethylstilboestrol, 5, 100 or 500 μg per day, and oestradiol, 1 or 100μg per day for 12 days on the hepatic microsomal metabolism of 4-[4-14C]androstene-3,17-dione were studied in castrated male and female rats.

When rats were given EtE2 in daily doses of 0.1 and 0.5 μg the activities of the 3α- and 17β-hydroxysteroid oxidoreductases increased in both male and female rats. A similar tendency was noted for the 5α-reductase in female rats. On the other hand, the activities of the 3β-hydroxysteroid oxidoreductase and 7α-hydroxylase enzyme systems were suppressed in both male and female rats already after administration of 0.1 μg of EtE2. Diethylstilboestrol, administered in doses of 100 and 500 μg, and oestradiol, given in a dose of 100 μg, suppressed the microsomal enzyme activities whereas the lower doses of 5 μg of diethylstilboestrol and 1 μg of oestradiol were without effects.

The results indicate that oestrogenic compounds given in doses higher than the physiological one have a suppressing effect on microsomal steroid metabolizing enzyme activities. Ethinyloestradiol has a stimulating effect on certain microsomal enzyme activities and an inhibiting effect on others when administered in an amount of 0.5 μg · kg−1 per day. The findings are discussed in relation to recent reports on impaired drug metabolism in women taking contraceptives.
EFFETCS OF LH AND HCG ON THE METABOLISM OF THE PREPUBERTAL RAT OVARY: STIMULATION OF AMINO ACID TRANSPORT, PROTEIN SYNTHESIS, AND GLYCOLYSIS
Authors: Nilsson Lars , Selstam Gunnar
Published: December 2008

It has earlier been reported from this laboratory that FSH can stimulate amino acid uptake, protein synthesis and glycolysis in the isolated prepubertal rat ovary.

In the present investigation the effects of LH and HCG were studied. The hormones were injected to prepubertal female rats, and the ovaries were extirpated for incubation in Krebs bicarbonate buffer 120 min later. Injection of 1 μg/100 g body weight of a bovine LH preparation (NIH-LH-B8) produced a significant increase in the in vitro uptake of [14C]α-amino-isobutyric acid ([14C]AIB) and [3H]leucine as well as of the incorporation of radioactivity into the ovarian protein. Higher doses (10 and 100 μg) of NIH-LH-B8 gave only minor further increases. Lactic acid production during the incubation period was also measured as a determination of the rate of glycolysis. Lactic acid production was stimulated by the LH injections with a clear dose-response between 0.1 and 10 μg/100 g body weight.

The effects of LH were also investigated with shorter intervals between the injection of the hormone and the extirpation of the ovaries. While lactic acid production was maximally stimulated at a time interval of 30 min (the shortest time interval studied), 60 min was necessary for the stimulation of amino acid uptake and amino acid incorporation into protein. Injections of HCG mimicked the effects of LH on all parameters studied.