bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Age and load compliance alter time to task failure for a submaximal fatiguing contraction with the lower leg
Authors: Griffith Erin E. , Yoon Tejin , Hunter Sandra K.
Published: March 2010

The purpose of this study was to compare the time to failure and muscle activation of young and old adults for a sustained isometric submaximal contraction with the dorsiflexor muscles when the foot was restrained to a force transducer (force-control task) compared with supporting an equivalent inertial load unrestrained in the sagittal plane (position-control task). Seventeen young (23.6 ± 6.5 yr) and 12 old (70.0 ± 5.0 yr) adults performed the force-control and position-control tasks at 30% maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) until task failure on separate days. Despite the similar load torque for each task, time to failure was longer for the force-control than position-control task (10.4 ± 4.5 vs. 8.6 ± 3.4 min, P = 0.03) for the young and old adults. The old adults, however, had a longer time to task failure than the young adults for both tasks (11.4 ± 4.4 vs. 8.1 ± 2.1 min, P = 0.01), with no interaction of age and task ( P = 0.83). The rate of increase in agonist and antagonist root-mean-square EMG, agonist EMG bursting activity, mean arterial pressure, and heart rate during the fatiguing contraction was greater for the position-control than force-control task for the young and old adults. The old adults had a less rapid rate of increase in EMG activity, fluctuations in motor output, and cardiovascular measures than the young adults for both tasks. Development of fatigue can be manipulated in young and old adults by providing greater support to the foot and less ankle compliance during daily and ergonomic tasks that require prolonged activation of the lower leg. Minimizing load compliance to one degree of freedom during a position-control task maintained the greater fatigue resistance with age for an isometric contraction.
Heat stress alters hemodynamic responses during the Valsalva maneuver
Authors: Davis Scott L. , Crandall Craig G.
Published: March 2010

The Valsalva maneuver can be used as a noninvasive index of autonomic control of blood pressure and heart rate. The purpose of this investigation was to test the hypothesis that sympathetic mediated vasoconstriction, as referenced by hemodynamic responses during late phase II (phase IIb) of the Valsalva maneuver, is inhibited during whole body heating. Seven individuals (5 men, 2 women) performed three Valsalva maneuvers (each at a 30-mmHg expiratory pressure for 15 s) during normothermia and again during whole body heating (increase sublingual temperature ∼0.8°C via water-perfused suit). Each Valsalva maneuver was separated by a minimum of 5 min. Beat-to-beat mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) and heart rate were measured during each Valsalva maneuver, and responses for each phase were averaged across the three Valsalva maneuvers for both thermal conditions. Baseline MAP was not significantly different between normothermic (88 ± 11 mmHg) and heat stress (84 ± 9 mmHg) conditions. The change in MAP (ΔMAP) relative to pre-Valsalva MAP during phases IIaand IIbwas significantly lower during heat stress (IIa= −20 ± 8 mmHg; IIb= −13 ± 7 mmHg) compared with normothermia (IIa= −1 ± 15 mmHg; IIb= 3 ± 13 mmHg). ΔMAP from pre-Valsalva baseline during phase IV was significantly higher during heat stress (25 ± 10 mmHg) compared with normothermia (8 ± 9 mmHg). Counter to the proposed hypothesis, the increase in MAP from the end of phase IIato the end of phase IIbduring heat stress was not attenuated. Conversely, this increase in MAP tended to be greater during heat stress relative to normothermia ( P = 0.06), suggesting that sympathetic activation may be elevated during this phase of the Valsalva while heat stressed. These data show that heat stress does not attenuate this index of vasoconstrictor responsiveness during the Valsalva maneuver.
Radiofrequency Coblation Decreases Blood Loss during Endoscopic Sinonasal and Skull Base Tumor Removal
Authors: Kostrzewa John P. , Sunde Jumin , Riley Kristen O. , Woodworth Bradford A.
Published: March 2010

Background/Aims: Minimizing bleeding during transnasal resections of sinonasal tumors is imperative for optimizing visualization and decreasing complications. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether radiofrequency coblation decreases blood loss during endoscopic tumor removal. Methods: Sinonasal/skull base tumors treated in 2008 with endoscopic techniques were reviewed. The data collected included demographics, histopathology, technique, duration, complications and estimated blood loss (EBL). Full operative videoendoscopy was available in all cases and scored by the authors using the 11-point Wormald surgical field grading scale. Results: Twenty-three patients (average age: 46 years) with sinonasal or skull base tumors treated with transnasal endoscopic techniques were identified. Coblation was used in 10 cases. The sinus/skull base tumors included were esthesioneuroblastoma (n = 6), melanoma (n = 3), squamous cell carcinoma (n = 3), inverted papilloma (n = 3), adenocarcinoma (n = 2), intracranial dermoid cyst (n = 2), adenoid cystic carcinoma (n = 1), craniopharyngioma (n = 1), fibromyxosarcoma (n = 1) and undifferentiated carcinoma (n = 1). The use of the coblation device was associated with a significant decrease in all categories including EBL (350 vs. 1,000 ml; p = 0.0001), EBL per operative time (66 vs. 166 ml/h; p = 0.0001) and Wormald grade (3.3 vs. 6.4; p = 0.0001). Conclusion: Radiofrequency coblation significantly decreased blood loss during endoscopic tumor removal and is a useful tool in the armamentarium of the endoscopic skull base surgeon.
Role of Body Composition in the Glycaemic Response to Foods Fed to Three Different Ethnic Groups: A Pilot Study
Authors: Al Dhaheri Ayesha S. , Henry C. Jeya K. , Lightowler Helen J. , Cheikh Ismail Leila I. , Tydeman Elizabeth , Al Hourani Huda M.
Published: March 2010

Aim: To examine the role of overweight and obesity on the glycaemic response to foods across the whole population. Design: Randomised, repeated measures design. Setting: Oxford, UK. Subjects and Methods: Twenty-seven healthy volunteers, 9 Caucasian, 9 Asian, and 9 African, voluntarily participated in the study. The glycaemic response to two breakfast cereals and two bread types was determined in obese and overweight subjects. Results: The current study shows that a very strong correlation exists between fasting blood glucose, peak change in glucose and the IAUC for glucose with each of BMI and WC (r = 0.88, 0.92; 0.82, 0.82; 0.91, 0.81; p = 0.01, respectively) for the Caucasian group. In addition, there was a strong significant negative association between the mean GI values of the four foods and the BMI for the Caucasian subjects (r = 0.61, p < 0.05). Furthermore, there was a strong positive significant association between the mean GI values of the four foods and the percentage body fat mass for the Asian subjects (r = 0.67, p < 0.05). Conclusions: This study has shown that the GI values of foods are affected by body composition in Asian and Caucasian subjects.
Relationship between Assays of Glycemia in Diabetic Subjects with Advanced Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Freedman Barry I. , Shihabi Zak K. , Andries Lilian , Cardona Cesar Y. , Peacock Todd P. , Byers Joyce R. , Russell Gregory B. , Stratta Robert J. , Bleyer Anthony J.
Published: March 2010

Background: Relative to hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), glycated albumin (GA) more accurately reflects recent glycemic control in diabetic patients on hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. These assays have yet to be compared in patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD). Methods: HbA1c and GA were simultaneously measured in 303 diabetic subjects: 70 with CKD prior to dialysis (CKD-stage 4), 184 with CKD after transplantation (TXP-stage 3) and 49 non-nephropathy controls. Results: Mean estimated GFR was 76, 46 and 26 ml/min in controls, TXP-3 and CKD-4 cases, respectively. Mean (SD) HbA1c (%) and GA (%) concentrations were 7.30 (1.40) and 16.8 (4.9) in controls, 7.28 (1.66) and 21.5 (6.4) in CKD-4 cases, and 7.21 (1.62) and 21.2 (5.5) in TXP-3 cases, respectively. The GA:HbA1c ratio differed significantly between non-nephropathy controls and both groups of CKD patients (both p < 0.001), but not between CKD-4 and TXP-3 cases (p = 0.92). The glucose:HbA1c ratio was inversely associated with GFR in all 254 nephropathy cases (r = –0.13; p = 0.04), while glucose:GA did not vary significantly based upon GFR (r = –0.08; p = 0.24). Conclusions: The relationship between glycated albumin and HbA1c is influenced by the presence of reduced GFR in diabetic patients with CKD. The accuracy of the HbA1c assay in diabetic subjects with severe nephropathy requires further investigation, although HbA1c performs relatively well with milder CKD.
Cetacean Brain Evolution: Dwarf Sperm Whale (Kogia sima) and Common Dolphin (Delphinus delphis) – An Investigation with High-Resolution 3D MRI
Authors: Oelschläger H.H.A. , Ridgway S.H. , Knauth M.
Published: March 2010

This study compares a whole brain of the dwarf sperm whale (Kogia sima) with that of a common dolphin (Delphinus delphis) using high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The Kogia brain was scanned with a Siemens Trio Magnetic Resonance scanner in the three main planes. As in the common dolphin and other marine odontocetes, the brain of the dwarf sperm whale is large, with the telencephalic hemispheres remarkably dominating the brain stem. The neocortex is voluminous and the cortical grey matter thin but expansive and densely convoluted. The corpus callosum is thin and the anterior commissure hard to detect whereas the posterior commissure is well-developed. There is consistency as to the lack of telencephalic structures (olfactory bulb and peduncle, olfactory ventricular recess) and neither an occipital lobe of the telencephalic hemisphere nor the posterior horn of the lateral ventricle are present. A pineal organ could not be detected in Kogia. Both species show a tiny hippocampus and thin fornix and the mammillary body is very small whereas other structures of the limbic system are well-developed. The brain stem is thick and underlies a large cerebellum, both of which, however, are smaller in Kogia. The vestibular system is markedly reduced with the exception of the lateral (Deiters’) nucleus. The visual system, although well-developed in both species, is exceeded by the impressive absolute and relative size of the auditory system. The brainstem and cerebellum comprise a series of structures (elliptic nucleus, medial accessory inferior olive, paraflocculus and posterior interpositus nucleus) showing characteristic odontocete dimensions and size correlations. All these structures seem to serve the auditory system with respect to echolocation, communication, and navigation.
Morphological and Molecular Modifications Induced by Different Carbohydrate Sources in Tuber borchii
Authors: Amicucci Antonella , Zambonelli Alessandra , Iotti Mirco , Polidori Emanuela , Menotta Michele , Saltarelli Roberta , Potenza Lucia , Stocchi Vilberto
Published: March 2010

During the life cycle of mycorrhizal fungi, morphological, genetic and metabolic modifications are induced in the fungus and its symbiotic partner. These changes are influenced by environmental factors: light, gravity, oxygen, temperature, soil type, nutrients, root exudates and the presence of particular bacterial and perhaps fungal and viral populations in the mycorrhizosphere. To determine whether different carbohydrates lead to cell-signalling events and morphofunctional changes in cultured Tuber borchii mycelia, the expression level of genes involved in morphological modifications was investigated using a macroarray technique and real-time RT-PCR. The morphological study showed an increased growth of Tuber mycelia in glucose, while the hyphae were thinner and less branched in sucrose and maltose. This was accompanied by an upregulation of the genes involved in the general cell metabolism, detoxification processes, hyphal growth and cytoskeleton organization. Since glucose is also present in root exudates, the increased expression of these genes might support the hypothesis that glucose can act as a signal for the fungus to indicate the presence of the plant, and to trigger the complex symbiotic process. These mechanisms can lead to morphological modifications, including increased branching of the root which is necessary for the fungus to establish the symbiosis.
Impact of Prestroke Oral Anticoagulation on Severity and Outcome of Ischemic and Hemorrhagic Stroke in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Audebert Heinrich J. , Schenk Berit , Schenkel Johannes , Heuschmann Peter U.
Published: March 2010

Background: Stroke prevention with oral anticoagulation is effective in patients with atrial fibrillation. An additional beneficial effect of oral anticoagulation prior to the event on stroke severity and prognosis was suggested in ischemic strokes. We tested whether this benefit is preserved after inclusion of hemorrhagic strokes and adjustment for prestroke living conditions. Methods: Data were used from a prospective hospital-based intervention trial evaluating quality of care and outcome in ten district hospitals. All ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke patients with atrial fibrillation were included. We analyzed separate multivariable regression models to identify factors associated with prescription of oral anticoagulation before stroke and to investigate the independent effect of anticoagulation on admission stroke severity, 3-month mortality and functional outcome. Results: The analysis comprised 804 (718 ischemic, 86 hemorrhagic) stroke patients admitted between July 2003 and March 2005. Males, patients aged 65–84, living independently, with diabetes, previous cerebrovascular event or additional high cardioembolic risks were more likely to receive oral anticoagulation before admission. Admission international normalized ratio (INR) between 2 and 3 (OR 0.35, 95% CI: 0.17–0.71) or higher (OR 0.32, 95% CI: 0.11–0.92) was associated with less severe strokes (including hemorrhagic strokes) compared with INR <2. Anticoagulation was associated with decreased risk of death and poor functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale >3) at 3 months (OR 0.54, 95% CI: 0.36–0.84, and OR 0.70, 95% CI: 0.47–1.06). After adjustment for stroke severity, anticoagulation had no additional effect on mortality and functional outcome. Conclusions: The beneficial effect of prestroke anticoagulation on stroke outcome related to the reduced stroke severity is not offset by adverse effects in hemorrhagic stokes.
Metabolic Syndrome Relates to Lacunar Stroke without White Matter Lesions: A Study in First-Ever Lacunar Stroke Patients
Authors: Zhang C.E. , van Raak E.P.M. , Rouhl R.P.W. , Lodder J. , Staals J. , Knottnerus I.L.H. , van Oostenbrugge R.J.
Published: March 2010

Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of three or more of the following risk factors: obesity, elevated blood pressure, elevated triglyceride level, elevated glucose level, and low high-density lipoprotein level. Lacunar infarcts (LS) account for 25% of all ischemic strokes and are small, deeply located brain infarcts. Two different subtypes exist, which are distinguished by the presence of concomitant white matter lesions (WML) on brain imaging. We determined the prevalence of MetS in LS and the association between MetS with LS subtypes in a series of first-ever LS patients. Methods: We included 92 patients with a first-ever LS, and 92 patients with a first-ever atheroslerotic cortical stroke (CS) matched for age and sex. LS subtypes were defined according to presence of concomitant WML. We defined MetS retrospectively according to previously defined standards. Results: 35.9% of LS patients and 45.7% of CS patients had MetS (OR 0.67; 95% CI 0.37–1.20). MetS was more prevalent in LS without WML than in LS with WML (44.4 and 23.7%, respectively; OR 2.98; 95% CI 1.04–8.47). Similarly, MetS related more to CS compared to LS with WML (OR 2.56; 95% CI 1.03–6.37). Conclusion: MetS relates more strongly to LS without WML and to CS, than to LS with WML. Our results suggest a different underlying mechanism between LS without WML and CS, and lacunar stroke with WML.
Prominent Chemopreventive and Chemoenhancing Effects for Resveratrol: Unraveling Molecular Targets and the Role of C-Reactive Protein
Authors: El-Mowafy A.M. , El-Mesery M.E. , Salem H.A. , Al-Gayyar M.M. , Darweish M.M.
Published: March 2010

Background: Resveratrol (RSVL) claims health benefits that pertain to the consumption of red wine/grapes. We currently evaluated the chemopreventive effects of RSVL, as well as its possible chemoenhancing effects when given with cisplatin (CP), in the Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) solid tumor model. Further, we monitored concomitant changes in serum levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), leukocytic count (LC) and lipid peroxidation (measured as malondialdehyde, MDA). Results: EAC-bearing mice exhibited a markedly elevated LC (2 fold), CRP (11 fold) and MDA levels (2.7 fold). RSVL (20 or 40 mg/kg) elicited significant, dose-dependent reductions in tumor size (58 and 78%, respectively), as well as in LC (normalized), CRP (down to 2 fold), TNF-α (down to near control levels) and MDA levels (normalized). The chemopreventive effects for CP (55% reduction in cell growth) was significantly lower than that of RSVL (40 mg/kg, 79% inhibition). Interestingly, coadministration of RSVL (20 mg/kg) markedly enhanced the chemoprevention of CP. Correlation studies revealed a high degree of positive association between tumor growth and CRP (r = 0.89) and leukocytosis (r = 0.86), thus attesting to a diagnostic/prognostic role for CRP in this solid tumor. Conclusion: RSVL elicited remarkable cytotoxicity on its own and appreciably augmented those of CP as well. The extent of tumor progression in various mouse groups was highly reflected by CRP levels. RSVL acts prominently by reducing inflammatory cytokines, leukocytosis and oxidative stress.
Functional rs20417 SNP (–765G>C) of Cyclooxygenase-2 Gene Does Not Predict the Risk of Recurrence of Ischemic Events in Coronary Patients: Results of a 7-Year Prospective Study
Authors: Montali Anna , Barillà Francesco , Tanzilli Gaetano , Vestri Annarita , Fraioli Antonio , Gaudio Carlo , Martino Francesco , Mezzetti Andrea , Cipollone Francesco , Arca Marcello
Published: March 2010

Objectives: The –765G>C variation (rs20417 SNP) in the promoter of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) gene has been demonstrated to lower COX-2 enzyme activity in the vasculature, thus affecting atherosclerotic plaque growth and stability. Therefore, this genetic variant may be a candidate influencing the residual risk. Methods: In 285 coronary patients the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs), defined as a composite of cardiovascular deaths, non-fatal myocardial infarction and stroke, unstable angina and revascularization procedures, was monitored for a median of 7.8 years. The genotypes were obtained in 231 patients (81%) by PCR amplification and FAU I digestion. Results: 89 MACEs (38.5%) were recorded during the follow-up in genotyped patients. Their incidence was not different in patients with GC or CC when compared with those with GG genotype (46.2 vs. 35.5% respectively; p = 0.14). Kaplan-Meyer analysis did not demonstrate any influence of COX-2 genotypes on the event-free survival time (log-rank p = 0.55). After controlling for confounders, the –765G>C carrier status was not associated with significant variation in the risk of MACE or its individual components. Conclusions: These results suggest that the functional G–765C variant in the COX-2 gene is not a significant predictor of the recurrence of ischemic events in coronary patients.
Galactosyltransferase Activity of the Microvillous Surface of Human Placental Syncytial Trophoblast
Authors: Nelson Michael , Enders Allen C. , King Barry F.
Published: March 2010

The syncytial trophoblast has previously been shown to have minimal intrasyncytial galactosyltransferase activity at term. The biochemical and autoradiographic study reported here shows that the microvillous surface of term human placental syncytial trophoblast has a galactosyltransferase activity capable of transferring 3H-galactose from uridine diphosphate-D-galactose-l-3H to trichloroacetic-acid-precipitable, endogenous acceptors. This capability of resynthesizing cleaved galactose moieties in the glycocalyx, without dependence on cytoplasmically located galactosyltransferases, would allow for reinstatement of the original surface molecular configuration without requiring synthesis and insertion of a completely new membrane molecule. It is suggested that the surface galactosyltransferase might function to repair damage to syncytial trophoblast glycocalyx induced by enzymes in maternal blood.
24-Hour Rhythms in Uterine and Umbilical Blood Flows of Conscious Pregnant Sheep
Authors: Walker Adrian M. , Oakes Gary K. , McLaughlin Margaret K. , Ehrenkranz Richard A. , Alling David W. , Chez Ronald A.
Published: March 2010

The possibility that 24-hour rhythms exist in uterine blood flow (UtBF) and umbilical blood flow (UmBF) was investigated in 5 days postoperative chronically instrumented near-term pregnant sheep acclimated to a controlled environment. UtBF, UmBF and pressure measurements were made at 15-min intervals over 24 h beginning at 0800 h. Each data series was examined for the presence of significant rhythms of a 24-hour period using a method of Fourier analysis. UtBF 24-hour rhythms were found in all ewes; UmBF 24-hour rhythms were found in 4 of 5 lambs. A consistent reciprocal phase relationship between UtBF and UmBF was evident within animals. There were no associated rhythms in maternal arterial, fetal arterial, or amniotic fluid pressures. These results indicate that the presence of circadian rhythms must be considered as a possible variable when long-term uteroplacental hemodynamic studies are planned.
Vasodilating Effect of Estrogen on the Human Umbilical Artery
Authors: Silva de Sá Marcos Felipe , Meirelles Roberto Salles
Published: March 2010

The effects of estradiol, estrone and estriol on the tonus of the isolated vascular segments of human umbilical artery were studied by a perfusion technique. Estradiol (10 µg/ml), estrone (10 µg/ml) or estriol (2 and 10 µg/ml) produce relaxation of the vascular bed which was reflected in a significant reduction in basal pressure of segments perfused at constant rate. A dose-dependent relationship was demonstrated for estriol. The time dependence and extent of relaxation were similar for all three natural estrogens.
Attempted Induction of Granulosa Cell Tumor in Balb-C Mice by Gonadotropin Administration
Authors: Menczer J. , Komarov H. , Shenboum M. , Insler V. , Czernobilsky B.
Published: March 2010

An attempt of granulosa cell tumor (GCT) induction by prolonged administration of exogenous pregnant mare’s serum gonadotropin (PMSG) to young, mature, and middle-aged Balb-C mice resulted mainly in stromal luteal cell proliferation. 48.9% of young mice, 64.5% of mature mice and 65% of middle-aged mice developed luteal cell proliferation. This effect seemed to be dependent on duration of treatment, mainly in young mice. Young mice injected for less than 6 months developed significantly less luteal cell proliferation than those injected for more lhan 6 months. Only 1 GCT was found. This study seems to support the contention that besides gonadotropin stimulation, other factors may be involved in GCT development. A large number of PMSG-injected mice developed generalized lymphosarcoma, the mechanism of which remains unknown.
Male Pseudohermaphroditism Consistent with 17,20-Desmolase Deficiency
Authors: Goebelsmann U. , Zachmann M. , Davajan V. , Israel R. , Mestman J.H. , Mishell D.R.
Published: March 2010

A 16-year-old phenotypic female with XY genotype presented an unusual form of nonfamilial male pseudohermaphroditism. Seemingly a normal girl during childhood, the patient failed to undergo pubertal changes presenting with scant pubic hair, absent axillary hair, lack of breast development, retarded bone age and primary amenorrhea. Neither uterus nor adnexa were palpable above the blind-ending vagina. Serum testosterone and estradiol were barely detectable by radio-immunoassay, while LH and FSH reached castrate levels. Two small testes were removed from the pelvic sidewalls which, on biopsy, showed atrophy and hyalinization of seminiferous tubules, but clusters of Leydig cells without signs of hypertrophy or hyperplasia. Administration of testosterone resulted in urinary nitrogen retention and a decrease in serum LH and FSH. Radioimmunoassay of various serum or plasma steroids and gas chromatographic determination of urinary steroids prior to and following ACTH stimulation yielded results which permitted to rule out 20,22-desmolase, 3Β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, 17-hydroxylase and 17Β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase deficiency. Low plasma dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) and an-drostenedione (Δ4A) concentrations, low urinary 17-ketosteroid and particularly low dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) excretion and the minimal rise of plasma DHEA-S and Δ4A and of urinary DHEA in response to ACTH in conjunction with a normal response of other serum and urinary C-21 steroids are consistent with 17,20-desmolase deficiency. Direct confirmation of this defect, however, seems impossible in the absence of in vitro studies of testicular steroidogenesis.
In vitro Perfusion Studies of the Human Placenta
Authors: Rice Philip A. , Rourke James E. , Nesbitt, Jr. Robert E.L.
Published: March 2010

In vitro perfusion studies of glucose transport in the human placenta show saturation kinetics at high glucose concentrations and competitive inhibition of glucose transfer by the nonmetabolizable glucose analog 3-O-methyl-Α-D glucopyranoside. These characteristics provide further evidence that glucose is transported by a facilitated diffusion process in the human placenta.
An Analysis of the Mechanisms of Egg Transport in the Ampulla of the Rabbit Oviduct
Authors: Halbert Sheridan A. , Tam Patrick Y. , Adams Robert J. , Blandau Richard J.
Published: March 2010

Ampullary transport of supravitally stained cumulus egg masses was studied in intact oviducts of anesthetized rabbits whose abdomens had been opened for observation. Following observations of normal transport, muscular activity of the ampulla was inhibited pharmacologically with Acepromazine®, a preanesthetic tranquilizer. With muscle contractions blocked, egg transport continued but in a dramatically altered fashion; in the final two thirds of the ampulla the motion changed from rapid to-and-fro movements to a slow uniform prouterine movement which was attributed to ciliary activity. However, the net velocity of transport did not change when the smooth muscle was inhibited indicating that muscle contractions are at least unnecessary and perhaps ineffective for ampullary egg transport in the rabbit.
Impaired Binding of Estradiol to Vaginal Mucosal Cells in Postmenopausal Osteoporosis
Authors: Bartizal Frederick J. , Coulam Carolyn B. , Gaffey Thomas A. , Ryan Robert J. , Riggs Lawrence
Published: March 2010

Estrogen binding to vaginal mucosa (an easily accessible estrogen-sensitive tissue) was studied in 20 osteoporotic women and in 20 normal postmenopausal women. Mean age, years since menopause, and serum levels of estrogen, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone did not differ significantly between the groups. Binding of tritiated-estradiol to vaginal epithelial cells was assessed by quantitative autoradiography and corrected for nonspecific binding by pretreatment of duplicate samples with an excess of unlabeled estrogen to saturated binding sites. Results (mean ± SE) expressed as counts/cell showed that binding was significantly less (p < 0.001) in the osteoporotic women (44.1 ± 4.0) than in the normal postmenopausal women (153.3 ± 39.3). Assuming that the quantity of estrogen receptors in bone paralleled those in vaginal cells, the data suggest that a defect in specific estrogen receptors including bone may be one of the fundamental abnormalities responsible for postmenopausal osteoporosis.
Lack of Correlation between Amniotic Fluid Progesterone and Fetal Sex Near Term
Authors: Armstrong R.W. , Effer S.B. , YoungLai E.V.
Published: March 2010

Human amniotic fluid obtained near term was examined for total progesterone, progesterone binding and total protein. Samples from patients bearing male (M) fetuses had 25.5 ± 2.0 ng/ml (n = 45) and female (F) fetuses 23.8 ± 2.7 ng/ml (n = 32). Bound progesterone in undiluted fluid was 47.1 ± 2.2% (M) and 48.5 ± 2.1% (F) while total protein was 2.1 ± 0.2 mg/ml (M) and 2.3 ± 0.3 mg/ml (F). No sex differences could be found.
Methods for Studying Oviductal Physiology
Authors: Blandau R.J. , Boling J.L. , Halbert S. , Verdugo P.
Published: March 2010

In studying oviductal physiology, it is important to sort out the complex interrelationships between muscle, cilia, nerves and secretory processes as they each of themselves, or in concert, effect gamete transport. In this review, a variety of physiological techniques and bioengineering approaches which have been used to monitor contractile and ciliary activity, are described and critically evaluated.
The Autonomic Nervous System and its Relationship to Tubal Ovum Transport – a Reappraisal
Authors: Hodgson Barrie J. , Eddy Carlton A.
Published: March 2010

The role of the autonomic nervous system in controlling ovum transport remains obscure. Although not studied extensively in the oviduct, the para-sympathetic nervous system does not appear to significantly influence ovum transport. The sympathetic nervous system of the oviduct and its pharmacology have been studied more thoroughly. Despite this, little information is available concerning cellular mechanisims of adrenergically altered motility or transport. In spite of much speculation, the weight of evidence suggests that, at least in the rabbit, the sympathetic nervous system plays a minor role in the control of ovum transport.
Effects of Prostaglandins on Oviductal Motility and Egg Transport
Authors: Spilman C.H. , Harper M.J.K.
Published: March 2010

The effects of prostaglandins (PGs) on muscular activity of the oviductal isthmus and on the rate of tubal egg transport are reviewed. In consideration of the available data a mechanism by which PGs contribute to the physiological control of egg transport is suggested. Invivo experiments have demonstrated that E-series PGs relax while F-series PGs stimulate muscular activity of the oviduct in humans, subhuman primates and rabbits. These effects are mutually antagonistic. The response of oviductal muscle to PGs appears to be affected by ovarian steroids; progesterone increases the response to PGE1 and decreases the response to PGF2Α. Oviductal tissue concentrations of PGF increase in a distal to proximal sequence following ovulation-induction in the rabbit. Also, proximal isthmus binding of PGE1 tended to be greater in 72-hour pregnant rabbits than in estrous rabbits, while binding of PGF2Α was greater in estrous than in 72-hour pregnant animals. It is suggested that the preovulatory increase in ovarian estradiol secretion stimulates PGF synthesis in the oviductal tissue in a sequential fashion, the peak value occurring when the oviductal isthmus is most sensitive to stimulation by PGF2Α. The changes in tissue concentration of PGF and in sensitivity to PGF2Α could contribute to occlusion of the isthmus and prevent premature passage of eggs into the uterus. An increase in ovarian progesterone secretion after ovulation may decrease tissue PGF, decrease the response to PGF2Α stimulation, and increase the response to PGE1. These changes may then allow a progressive movement of eggs through the isthmus into the uterus. Several questions regarding this proposed mechanism remain unanswered.
Antibacterial Activity of Human Cervical Mucus
Authors: Zuckerman H. , Kahana A. , Carmel S.
Published: March 2010

The antimicrobial property of human uterine cervical mucus was tested in three groups of women. Healthy women, using no contraception, women using an intrauterine device and women receiving hormonal treatment for contraception. Cervical mucus was taken on the 10th, 14th, 18th and 22nd day of the menstrual cycle. Cervical mucus had a strong inhibitory effect on the growth of Micrococcuslysodeicticus in all three groups. The strength of the inhibitory effect on the other microorganisms were in the following order: Staphylococcusalbus, Staphylococcusaureus, Proteusmirabilis, Escherichiacoli, Candidaalbicans, Streptococcushaemolyticus, Streptococcusfaecalis. Use of an intrauterine device did not affect the antimicrobial effect of cervical mucus. The use of hormonal contraceptive canceled the antimicrobial effect on the series of microorganisms, with the exception of M. lysodeicticus. The maximum inhibitory effect occurred on the 14th day and declined toward the end of the menstrual cycle.
Placental Antigens and Fetoproteins in the Urine of Rats – Indicators of Resorption of Conceptuses
Authors: Boss J.H. , Dishon T. , Rosenmann E.
Published: March 2010

Placenta-specific antigens and Α-fetoprotein were detected in the urine of rats with induced abnormal pregnancies. Moreover, in those cases, in which the presumptive diagnosis of intrauterine fetal death or resorption was made, urinary excretion of placental antigens persisted for at least 5 days.
Portable Device for Vaginal Thermal Conductance Studies
Authors: Abrams R.M. , Thatcher W.W. , Gwazdauskas F.C. , Sharp D.C. , Bazer F.W. , Wilcox C.J. , Stolwijk J.A.J.
Published: March 2010

Design and development of a portable and self-contained vaginal probe, consisting of an acetone-filled silver cylinder attached to a pressure gauge, is described. Qualitative changes in vaginal thermal conductance were inferred from rates of thermal expansion of precooled acetone measured as a pressure rise. Administration of 10 mg estradiol-17Β i.v. to ovariectomized heifers resulted in significant increases in rate of thermal expansion.
Experimental Production of Aneuploidy in Mouse Oocytes
Authors: Karp Laurence E. , Smith Dianne
Published: March 2010

The normal course of meiosis can be interrupted in cultured mouse oocytes by exposure to low temperature (23 °C). Retransfer of the oocytes to a 37 °C environment will permit the meiotic process to resume and progress as usual to second metaphase. However, a significant number of oocytes treated in this manner prove to contain abnormal numbers of chromosomes.
Serum Unconjugated Estriol in the Menstrual Cycle and Early Pregnancy
Authors: Raju U. , Ganguly M. , Weiss G. , Zarkin A. , Levitz M.
Published: March 2010

A radioimmunoassay for serum unconjugated estriol in the menstrual cycle with a sensitivity of about 5 pg/ml is described. 8 cycles were studied. In 2 cycles, single spikes of 22 and 30 pg/ml were obtained. In 3 cycles, concentrations of 4–5 pg/ml were found whereas in the other 3 studies, no estriol was detected. In general, peaks of estriol corresponded to peaks in estradiol plus estrone. Patients in 4–12 weeks of gestation were also studied. Concentrations as high as 262 pg/ml were found but in isolated instances, no estriol was detected. The results support the view that in contrast to the pregnant state, in the normal menstrual cycle, the bulk of the estriol produced is conjugated before release into the blood.
Early Stimulation of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Secretion by Dibutyryl Cyclic AMP and Theophylline in Human Malignant Trophoblast Cells in vitro: Inhibition by Actinomycin D, α-Amanitin, and Cordycepin
Authors: Pattillo Roland A , Hussa Robert O.
Published: March 2010

Human malignant trophoblast cells (BeWo line) in culture were employed to investigate the early stimulation of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) secretion by 1 mM dibutyryl cyclic AMP and 1 mM theophylline (dbT). The earliest increase in secreted immunoreactive hCG occurred at least 3½ h following addition of dbT, and was preceded by an increase in intracellular hCG. These results suggested that dbT stimulated hCG synthesis, rather than release. Addition of either 0.062 µg/ml actinomycin D or 100 µg/ml cordycepin along with dbT, or 3 µg/ml Α-amanitin 9 h prior to addition of dbT, prevented the increase in hCG secretion at 3½–8 h. It was concluded that synthesis of RNA (possibly messenger RNA) is required for the early stimulation of hCG secretion by dbT.
Experimental Mycoplasma hominis I Infection in the Pregnant Rat
Authors: Millar Mary , Graber C.D.
Published: March 2010

Mycoplasma hominis I is known to spread systematically and to cause occasional illness in humans. M. hominis I a common commensal in the vagina of women, was used in a rat model to create intravaginal infection as a means of elucidating a route toward possible teratogenesis. M. hominis I was cultured from the vagina of one of eleven rats 3 days following a series of intravaginal inoculations of the organism. Intraperitoneal injections of M. hominis I with Freund’s complete adjuvant (FCA) in the same rat model caused an increasing humoral antibody response in all rats injected and produced a 17-day sepsis in one rat. Three pregnant rats inoculated intraperitoneally with M. hominis I in FCA yielded mycoplasma from uterine blood at 1 or 2 days; and 14 of 30 placentas and 8 of 30 fetuses. The route of mycoplasma infection to the fetus appears to be from maternal blood to placenta and not via ruptured membranes.
Studies in Human Reproduction Glucose Tolerance in Mothers and Fathers of Excessive-Sized Infants
Authors: Goldman Jack A. , Schachter Alexander
Published: March 2010

It is now known that a woman who has given birth to a large child or children is to be regarded as a potential diabetic. It has also been suggested that, in addition to the mother’s unfavorable environment, the high birth weight might be an inherited characteristic linked in some way to the diabetic genetic make-up of the father. The authors have investigated carbohydrate metabolism by means of a 3-hour oral glucose tolerance test in 50 couples, mothers and fathers who had given birth to giant infants (weighing 5 kg or more). Glucose tolerance was compared to that of 50 other couples, mothers and fathers of infants with average birth weight. The latter served as a control group. Nine women (18%) in the test group had a diabetic O-GTT, as compared to three (6%) in the control group. Five men in the test group (10%), and two in the control group (4%) had diabetic-type curves. Statistical evaluation of women and men as groups showed glucose tolerance to be significantly lower in the test groups as compared to the control groups, respectively. It was concluded that results of our study are in accordance with investigators who found deterioration of carbohydrate metabolism in mothers and fathers of excessive-sized babies.
The Early History of Progesterone
Authors: Corner, sr. George W.
Published: March 2010

The corpus luteum was first clearly described by Regner de Graaf (1672). That it is an organ of internal secretion was suggested by Louis-Auguste Prenant in 1898 and by Gustav Born about the same time. Clues to its specific action upont the endometrium were discovered through experiments by Ludwig Fraenkel (1903 and 1910), by Leo Loeb (1907) and by Paul Ancel and Paul Bouin (1910). The control of uterine motility by the corpus luteum was demonstrated by Hermann Knaus (1927 ff.). G.W. Corner (1928) demonstrated the necessity of the corpus luteum for survival of the pre-implantation embryo. Using a test based upon Fraenkel and Ancel/ Bouin, Corner and W.M. Allen isolated the hormone progesterone (1929) and first maintained pregnancy with corpus luteum extracts after early ablation of the ovaries (rabbit, 1930). Purification of progesterone was the work of several investigators between 1928 and 1934. The structural formula was worked out by Adolf Butenandt (1933–1934).
An Ergocryptine as a Lactation Inhibitor
Authors: Falzon Dolores , Galea Rose , Camilleri A.P.
Published: March 2010

A double-blind trial was performed on 40 parturient women to compare the efficacy of an ergocryptine (CB 154) as a lactation inhibitor in comparision with chlorotrianisine (TACE). The two drugs were about equally effective. The drug CB 154 is unlikely to be associated with puerperal thrombo-embolism, it does not seem to be followed by rebound lactation, and it may prove particularly effective in women with a previous history of puerperal mastitis or breast engorgement.
Serum Gonadotropin Patterns in Patients with Chronic Renal Failure on Hemodialysis
Authors: Strickler R.C. , Woolever C.A. , Johnson M. , Goldstein M. , de Veber G.
Published: March 2010

A clinical model to study gonadotropin patterns when minimal or no kidney function persists is available in patients demonstrating chronic renal failure and maintained on hemodialysis. Hemodialysis does not alter the serum level of FSH and LH. In 9 premenopausal women, 3 serum patterns of FSH and LH were observed. The most common serum pattern of gonadotropin is a normal concentration of FSH and a moderately elevated level of LH, wherein LH/FSH is 4:1. This pattern was also observed in 4 male patients maintained on hemodialysis. The serum gonadotropin pattern in oophorectomized women on hemodialysis is the same as in post-menopausal women with normal renal function (i.e. high LH and high FSH). Serum estrogen levels are below normal in all female patients studied. Renal failure does not induce a suppression in the hypothalamic-pituitary control of gonadotropin release. Renal failure is not associated with an unique serum pattern of FSH and LH. This suggests that kidney excretion is not the only mechanism for clearing gonadotropin from blood.
Growth of Uterine Oxygen and Glucose Uptakes During Pregnancy in Sheep
Authors: Morriss, Jr. Frank H. , Rosenfeld Charles R. , Resnik Robert , Meschia Giacomo , Makowski Edgar L. , Battaglia Frederick C.
Published: March 2010

The growth of uterine oxygen and glucose uptakes (Qo2, Q glucose) throughout pregnancy was determined in sheep with chronically implanted uterine artery electromagnetic flow probes and arterial and uterine venous catheters. The flow probe measurements were corrected to total uterine blood flow by means of an equation based on simultaneous flow probe and radioactive microsphere determinations. Uterine Qo2, and Q glucose increased logarithmically as gestation progressed. During the last third of gestation, the mean Qo2 for twin pregnancies was 44% higher than Qo2 for single pregnancies. In the last 3 weeks of gestation the uterine glucose/oxygen quotient was 0.76 (95% confidence limits 0.65–0.87), which is significantly less than one and significantly greater than the 0.46 umbilical glucose/oxygen quotient determined in previous studies. This result indicates that substrates other than glucose are used in large amounts in order to satisfy the requirements of uterine oxidative metabolism in late pregnancy and that the placenta has a relatively high glucose/oxygen quotient. Uterine arteriovenous differences of fructose and pyruvate measured at intervals throughout gestation revealed that there is no significant uptake of these substrates by the pregnant uterus.
Fetal Lung Maturation
Authors: Jimenez Juan M. , Schultz Michael , MacDonald Paul C. , Johnston John M.
Published: March 2010

The presence of phosphatidic acid phosphohydrolase (PAPase) in human amniotic fluid is demonstrated. The identity of the enzyme was established by the demonstration that the activity of the amniotic fluid enzyme was markedly decreased by the addition of known inhibitors of the enzyme and the pH optimum. The specific activity of PAPase in amniotic fluid increases from 15 nmol of phosphate release per milligram protein per hour at 20–32 weeks of gestation to 82 nmol in pregnancies of 35 weeks gestation and beyond (p < 0.001).
The Structural Basis of Electrical Coupling (Cell-to-Cell Contacts) in Rat Myometrium
Authors: Garfield R.E. , Daniel E.E.
Published: March 2010

The ultrastructure of rat myometrium was studied to determine the types and relative number of cell-to-cell contacts between smooth muscle cells after various hormonal treatments. Intermediate and close contacts were present between cells of the longitudinal and circular muscle layers. No nexuses were present between smooth muscle cells but nexuses were consistently found between fibrocytes surrounding bundles of smooth muscle cells. More intermediate contacts were present in the longitudinal muscle layer than the circular muscle. Close contacts were not appreciably affected by hormonal treatment. More intermediate contacts were found in tissues from pregnant or estrogen-treated animals than from estrogen-progesterone-treated animals. The mechanisms for electrical coupling between uterine muscle cells are discussed in light of these findings.
Amniotic Fluid Correlates of Fetal Maturity and Perinatal Outcome
Authors: Kling O.R. , Crosby W.M. , Merrill J.A.
Published: March 2010

The determination of amniotic fluid total lecithin/sphingomyelin ratio, creatinine concentration, fetal fat cells and presence of bilirubin (Δ OD450) was used to study 201 amniotic fluids from 144 pregnancies. The total L/S ratio and creatinine concentration correlated significantly with gestational age and fetal size in normal gestations as well as those complicated by diabetes, toxemia and Rh-isoimmunization. The presence of fetal fat cells and the optical density at 450 nm were found to be less accurate parameters for dating gestation and fetal maturity. In 6 infants delivered with a total L/S ratio < 2.0 and creatinine concentration < 1.75 mg%, 3 (50%) died from severe RDS and hyaline membrane formation, 1 developed mild RDS and recovered, and 2 showed no symptoms of respiratory distress. The utilization of the total L/S ratio in combination with the creatinine content is the most accurate method for in utero assessment of fetal maturity and perinatal survival.
Sarcoplasmic Reticulum from Pregnant Bovine Uterus
Authors: Carsten Mary E.
Published: March 2010

Purified preparations of fragmented sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) from pregnant bovine uterus were allowed to bind calcium in a medium containing ATP, Mg++ and Ca++. The smooth muscle stimulating prostaglandins (PG) E2 and F2Α inhibited calcium binding. The physiologically inactive PGF1Β had no effect. Similarly, addition of PGE2 and PGF2Α to the incubation medium after calcium binding was complete, led to release of some of the bound calcium, depending on the PG concentration. Intrinsic, membrane-bound calcium could be partially removed with either EGTA (1 mM) or PGE2 (100 µg/ml) but not with PGF1Β. The amount of intrinsic calcium removed was greater after EGTA than after PGE2 treatment. Following removal of calcium with EGTA or PGE2, renewed binding of calcium took place in the absence and, more so, in the presence of ATP. However, the initial level of intrinsic calcium was not completely restored. EGTA treatment of SR preparations would also remove calcium following ATP-dependent calcium binding. Renewed incubation restored ATP-dependent calcium binding. These observations suggest that the interaction of PGs with calcium may be the basis for the increased contractile force of the uterus observed in labor.
Searching for Early Fertilized Human Ova
Authors: Hertig A.T. , Rock J.
Published: March 2010

This paper is a description, with illustrations, of the technique used by the authors from 1938 to 1954 in searching for early human pregnancies prior to the first missed menstrual period. The myometrium was bivalved on the dissecting board down to the endometrium. The entire specimen was immersed in saline and the endometrial sac opened by dissection under the binocular microscope; contents were pipetted into embryologic dishes. The endometrial surface was inspected before and after partial fixation for implanted stages. In 211 uteri surgically removed, along with 102 Fallopian tubes, 34 specimens were found, 13 were abnormal – potential abortuses – and 21 were normal. There were eight segmenting ova – one tubal and seven intrauterine, of which four were normal and four were abnormal. There were 26 implanted specimens, nine abnormal and 17 normal. The specimens have all been described before, but the technique had never been illustrated nor described in detail.