bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of a thermal pulse decay system to assess avian renal blood flow during reduced renal arterial perfusion pressure
Authors: Wideman R. F. , Glahn R. P. , Bottje W. G. , Holmes K. R.
Published: December 2017

Using a simplified avian kidney model, renal arterial perfusion pressure (RAPP) was reduced from 120 (control) to 70 mmHg (near the glomerular filtration rate autoregulatory limit) and then to 46 mmHg (below the glomerular filtration rate autoregulatory range) in kidneys with ambient or partially restricted renal portal flow. Renal blood flow (RBF) was measured with a thermal pulse decay (TPD) system, using TPD thermistor probes inserted at three locations to evaluate regional differences in RBF. The clearance (CPAH) and extraction of p-aminohippuric acid were used to calculate renal plasma flow (RPF). CPAH, RPF, and RBF values were consistently lower for kidneys with restricted portal flow than for kidneys with ambient portal flow. Reducing RAPP to 46 mmHg did not significantly reduce CPAH, RPF, or RBF in the ambient group but did significantly reduce CPAH and RPF (regressed on RAPP) in the restricted group. RBF was not significantly affected when RAPP was reduced in the restricted group, although significant regional differences in blood flow were recorded. Renal vascular resistance decreased significantly as RAPP was reduced to 46 mmHg in the ambient group, confirming the renal autoregulatory response. In separate validation studies, significant reductions in RBF were detected by the TPD system during acute obstructions of portal and/or arterial flow. Overall, the results support previous evidence that avian RBF remains constant over a wide range of RAPPs. Observations of nonuniform intrarenal distributions of portal blood flow suggest that the portal system maintains the constancy of RBF in regions with proportionately high portal-to-arterial flow ratios.
Intravenous infusion of CCKA-receptor antagonist increases food intake in rats
Authors: Miesner J. , Smith G. P. , Gibbs J. , Tyrka A.
Published: December 2017

To test the hypothesis that endogenous cholecystokinin (CCK) released from the small intestine by ingested food produces a satiating effect by acting at CCKA-receptors, we measured the effect of slow continuous intravenous infusions of three doses of MK-329, a potent and selective CCKA-antagonist, on food intake during 2.5-h tests in 13 Sprague-Dawley male rats after 1 h of food deprivation. MK-329 increased food intake significantly and the lowest dose tested (0.5 mg.kg-1.h-1) produced the most consistent effect on cumulative intake. Part of the increased food intake under these conditions was due to a decrease in the satiating effect of food ingested at the first meal on the postprandial intermeal interval. These results are consistent with, but do not prove, the hypothesis that the satiating effect of endogenous CCK released from the small intestine by ingested food is mediated by CCKA-receptors.
Differential effects of intravenous glucose, amino acids, and lipid on daily food intake in rats
Authors: Walls E. K. , Koopmans H. S.
Published: December 2017

Three types of nutrient were infused intravenously for 30 min before and during the 17 h when rats were fed to assess the effects of these nutrients on short-term and daily food intake. Infusions of glucose (34 kcal/day for 4 days) reduced food intake from saline baseline levels by 18.8 +/- 1.9 kcal/day. This represents an oral intake reduction equivalent to 55% of each calorie infused. When amino acids were delivered intravenously at 10 and then 20 kcal/day for 4 days, food intake was reduced by 11.9 +/- 1.4 and 20.4 +/- 2.4 kcal/day, which represent oral intake reductions of 112 and 103% of infused calories, respectively. Food intake was reduced 8.2 +/- 0.5 and 16.6 +/- 1.4 kcal/day (or 41 and 42% of calories infused), when a lipid emulsion was delivered at 20 or 40 kcal/day for 6 days, respectively. A combination of all three nutrients (i.v. diet composed of 50% glucose, 13% amino acids, and 37% lipid by calories) identical to the nutrient composition of the oral diet was infused at 20 and then 40 kcal/day for 6 days. Food intakes were reduced by 14.8 +/- 2.0 and 32.3 +/- 3.3 kcal/day, representing 74 and 80% of infused calories. Recovery of food intake to previous saline baseline levels was rapid and complete after the glucose and amino acid infusions but was delayed and incomplete after the lipid and intravenous diet conditions. These results indicate that infused amino acids or a balanced intravenous diet is more effective than glucose or fats in inhibiting daily food intake.
Diurnal rhythms in Ca transfer into bone, Ca release from bone, and bone resorbing activity in serum of rats
Authors: Shinoda H. , Stern P. H.
Published: December 2017

To characterize diurnal rhythms in calcium transfer in and out of bone, rats were adapted to a 12:12 h light-dark illumination program (with light from 0600 to 1800 h). For studies of deposition, rats were injected with 45CaCl2 at 0300, 0700, 1100, 1500, 1900 or 2300 h and killed with chloroform inhalation 60 min later, and radioactivity was determined in tibia and mandibular incisor. Peak deposition occurred at 2400 h, with a nadir at 1200 h. For studies of radionuclide release, rats were prelabeled with 45CaCl2 for 6 days and serum obtained from the tail at 4-h intervals. 45Ca and specific activity were maximal around 1200-1600 h and lowest late in the dark period. To determine the role of humoral factor(s), fetal rat limb bones were cultured in media prepared with sera from light-dark-adapted rats. Activity was maximal in serum collected at 0800 h and minimal at 1600 h. Heat inactivation at 100 degrees C for 5 min eliminated the difference between the peak and nadir. The results suggest that a heat-sensitive humoral factor(s) regulates diurnal rhythms in calcium metabolism.
Quantitative role of the intracellular bicarbonate buffer system in response to an acute acid load
Authors: Vasuvattakul S. , Warner L. C. , Halperin M. L.
Published: December 2017

Our purpose was to quantitate the proportion of H+ removed by the bicarbonate buffer system (BBS) when a modest load of H+ was infused acutely. In addition, the quantitative impact of hyperventilation on the BBS in the extracellular fluid (ECF) and other compartments in this setting was assessed. Three groups of rats (399 +/- 3 g) were anesthetized and connected to a respirator to control their arterial PCO2 and to collect expired air. Metabolic acidosis (pH 7.26 +/- 0.01, bicarbonate 18 +/- 1 mM) was induced by infusion of HCl (0.15 M, 4 mmol/kg) over 60 min, and expired air was collected for two 20-min periods beginning 75 and 105 min after the start of the infusion of HCl in each group. Each rat served as its own control for the rate of production of CO2 from metabolism. The first two groups were time controls. Their arterial PCO2 was constant at either ambient (50 mmHg) or hyperventilation levels (30 mmHg) during both collections (n = 5 each). In the experimental group (n = 5), the PCO2 was decreased from 40 to 27 mmHg during the second collection. The rate of production of CO2 from metabolism did not rise in the second collection in the time control experiments (change = -13.4 +/- 1.7 and -1.4 +/- 2.5 mumol/min, respectively), whereas more CO2 was collected during the second period in the experimental group (change = 42 +/- 9 mumol/min, P = 0.02).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Remodeling of myofibrils: subcellular distribution of myosin heavy chain mRNA and protein
Authors: Russell B. , Wenderoth M. P. , Goldspink P. H.
Published: December 2017

Myofibril remodeling occurs during the normal life, in growth and development, and in the special case when isoform switching occurs. In this review we concentrate on the ultrastructural aspects of how myosin is incorporated into the A-band. Anatomic methods of study are emphasized that include isotope and immunochemical labeling as well as in situ hybridization. We conclude that the mechanism of remodeling is one of continual orderly exchange between a monomeric myosin pool and the thick filament. Myosin mRNA distribution is intermyofibrillar and nonsarcomeric, which suggests that newly translated myosin is released before diffusion and insertion in the A-band of the myofibrillar lattice.
Influence of dietary calcium on sodium and calcium intake of spontaneously hypertensive rats
Authors: Tordoff M. G.
Published: December 2017

Spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) fed nutritionally complete diets voluntarily ingest more calcium and more NaCl solution than do their normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) controls. SHRs also have several anomalies in calcium metabolism. Given that calcium availability modulates NaCl intake of other rat strains, we examined whether sodium and calcium intake of the SHR was unusually responsive to manipulations of dietary calcium. In three experiments, groups of SHRs and WKYs ate diets differing in calcium content (0-1,000 mmol/kg) and drank solutions of sodium (50 and 300 mM NaCl or 50 mM sodium lactate) and/or calcium (50 and 110 mM calcium lactate or 50 mM CaCl2). Relative to WKYs, SHRs fed calcium-deficient diet (0 mmol Ca2+/kg) drank the same amount or less calcium solution, drank more NaCl, and increased NaCl intake more rapidly when the diet was first introduced. SHRs fed diets sufficient for normal growth (50-1,000 mmol Ca2+/kg) drank consistently more calcium and sodium solution than did WKYs. However, NaCl intake of SHRs was decreased by high-calcium diets, whereas NaCl intake of WKYs was not. Taken together, these results suggest that a mechanism dependent on the availability of calcium is at least partially responsible for the high salt intake of the SHR.
Augmentation of baroreflex-mediated bradycardia in conscious pregnant rats
Authors: Conrad K. P. , Russ R. D.
Published: December 2017

The goal of the present study was to examine baroreflex control of heart rate during pregnancy in chronically instrumented unrestrained rats. The same rats (n = 6) were studied before conception, again on gestational days 5, 12, and 19, and last on postpartum day 6; thus each rat served as its own control. Time control experiments were also conducted in a separate group of virgin rats (n = 7). Resting mean arterial pressure decreased by 10 mmHg on gestational day 19 (P less than 0.01 vs. prepregnant), and heart rate significantly increased by approximately 10% relative to time control rats. Dose-response curves were constructed for methoxamine and sodium nitroprusside comparing the various dosages with systemic pressor and depressor responses, respectively. The dose-response relationship for methoxamine was shifted to the right in gravid rats of 19 gestational days (P less than 0.03 vs. prepregnant), indicating an attenuation of alpha-adrenergic receptor-mediated pressor responsiveness. In contrast, depressor responses to sodium nitroprusside were not significantly altered in pregnancy. Baroreflex-mediated bradycardia was unchanged until gestational day 19, when enhanced bradycardia responses to methoxamine were observed. Baroreflex-mediated tachycardic responses elicited by sodium nitroprusside were not affected at any stage of pregnancy. Baroreflex control of heart rate did not change significantly with either increases or decreases of blood pressure in time control experiments. We conclude that during late pregnancy in conscious rats 1) resting blood pressure decreases and heart rate increases, 2) systemic pressor responses to methoxamine are diminished, and 3) baroreflex-mediated bradycardia is enhanced.
Rapid but transient atrophy of brown adipose tissue in capsaicin-desensitized rats
Authors: Cui J. , Himms-Hagen J.
Published: December 2017

Our previous studies showed atrophy of brown adipose tissue (BAT) in capsaicin-desensitized rats during the period 11-28 days after injections [Cui et al., Am. J. Physiol. 259 (Regulatory Integrative Comp. Physiol. 28): R324-R332, 1990]. The objective of the present studies was to assess the rapidity with which the atrophy occurred and the extent to which recovery had occurred by 8 wk. Rats, either vehicle-injected controls or capsaicin injected, were studied 1, 3, 14, 28, and 52 days after the last injection. BAT was markedly atrophied at 1 day, having less total protein, fewer mitochondria (less total cytochrome oxidase and total uncoupling protein), and fewer cells (less DNA). Atrophy persisted for up to 14 days but had largely disappeared by 28-52 days. A transient reduction in body weight gain and white epididymal adipose tissue weight had also reversed by 28-52 days. We suggest that the rapid atrophy of BAT after capsaicin desensitization is secondary to the loss of sensory neuropeptides in its sensory nerves, neuropeptides that either exert a trophic effect on synthesis of mitochondria or an inhibitory influence on processes that promote degradation of mitochondria. The retardation of the normal age-associated increase in DNA content of BAT in the capsaicin-desensitized rat suggests that sensory neuropeptides might also modulate cell proliferation.
Intake of different concentrations of sucrose and corn oil in preweanling rats
Authors: Ackerman S. H. , Albert M. , Shindledecker R. D. , Gayle C. , Smith G. P.
Published: December 2017

To investigate the orosensory control of ingestion in preweanling rats, we infused one of the following liquids continuously through anterior sublingual intraoral catheters for 20 min: sucrose solutions (5, 10, 20, and 40%) and corn oil emulsions (6.25, 12.5, 25, 50, and 100%). Pups were tested at 7, 14, 21, and 28 days of age. Each pup was tested only once. Intake of sucrose and of corn oil became increasingly correlated with concentration from 7 to 21 days. Sucrose elicited more intake than water by day 7, whereas corn oil did not until day 14. Low concentrations of sucrose had differential effects on intake by day 14, but low concentrations of corn oil emulsions did not have differential effects on intake until day 21. At all ages, the peak intake of sucrose was significantly larger than the peak intake of corn oil. These differences are probably not based on prior experience because each test of ingestion represented a first exposure to the stimulus. Thus we suggest that the differences are due to the maturation of the orosensory control of ingestion by sucrose and corn oil.
V1- and V2-receptor contributions to ovine fetal renal and cardiovascular responses to vasopressin
Authors: Ervin M. G. , Ross M. G. , Leake R. D. , Fisher D. A.
Published: December 2017

To assess the contributions of arginine vasopressin (AVP) V1- and V2-receptors to the ovine fetal responses to AVP, we studied V2-receptor stimulation in the presence of V1-receptor blockade, and selective V2-receptor stimulation in chronically catheterized fetal lambs. AVP administration (20 ng/kg) to the saline infused fetuses (n = 8; 132 +/- 2 days) significantly increased mean arterial pressure (MAP; 45 +/- 2 to 53 +/- 4 mmHg) and urine osmolality (Uosm; 134 +/- 13 to 379 +/- 42 mosmol/kgH2O) and decreased heart rate (HR; 168 +/- 3 to 147 +/- 5 beats/min) and urine flow (V; 0.48 +/- 0.10 to 0.19 +/- 0.03 ml/min). V1-receptor antagonist infusion, [d(CH2)5,Tyr(Me)]AVP (n = 7; 134 +/- 1 days) had no effect on fetal MAP, Uosm, HR, or V. V1-receptor blockade abolished the MAP response to AVP without affecting the HR and urinary responses. In a second series of animals (n = 6; 131 +/- 1 days), selective V2-receptor agonist infusion [desmopressin (DDAVP)] had no effect on fetal MAP or HR while initial changes in V and Uosm were identical to the effects of AVP alone. Our results demonstrate clear discrimination of V1- and V2-receptor-mediated events in the fetal MAP and renal responses to AVP. Moreover, the HR response to AVP is not mediated by the population of V1-receptors blocked by [d(CH2)5,Tyr(Me)]AVP or V2-receptors stimulated by DDAVP, suggesting the presence of additional AVP receptor subclass(es) during fetal life.
Carotid chemoreceptors influence arterial pressure in intact and aortic-denervated rats
Authors: Franchini K. G. , Krieger E. M.
Published: December 2017

The objective of the present study was to analyze the role of the arterial chemoreceptors in arterial pressure alterations produced by sinoaortic denervation (SAD) in rats. The mean arterial pressure during 2 h of continuous computerized beat-to-beat recordings was higher after aortic denervation (AD; 130 +/- 2 and 124 +/- 3 mmHg, respectively), lower after sinus denervation (SD; 101 +/- 1 and 101 +/- 3 mmHg), and remained unaltered after SAD (121 +/- 3 and 108 +/- 2 mmHg) 1 and 20 days after denervation compared with control rats (114 +/- 1 mmHg). Hypotensive effect of SD was confirmed when arterial pressure was recorded in the same animal before and after SD (from 112 +/- 2 to 103 +/- 2 mmHg). A similar effect was observed after isolated carotid body artery (CBA) ligation (from 114 +/- 3 to 104 +/- 3 mmHg). Furthermore, CBA ligation attenuated by 13% the hypertension after AD (from 136 +/- 2 to 118 +/- 3 mmHg). Bradycardic response to phenylephrine and arterial pressure variability were markedly altered by SAD and AD but remained normal after SD. In contrast, the chemoreflex (intravenous KCN) was abolished after SAD, SD, and CBA ligation but was preserved after AD. These data suggest that the arterial pressure alteration produced by SAD in rats represents the net effect of the abolition of inhibitory (baroreceptor deafferentation) and excitatory (chemoreceptor deafferentation) influences on the arterial pressure.
Rainbow trout hepatocyte beta-adrenoceptors, catecholamine responsiveness, and effects of cortisol
Authors: Reid S. D. , Moon T. W. , Perry S. F.
Published: December 2017

Hepatocyte beta-adrenoceptors were characterized in trout with chronically raised plasma cortisol levels (132.1 +/- 14.8 ng/ml, n = 8, 11-12 days) and compared with shams (1.8 +/- 0.9 ng/ml, n = 8) using radioreceptor assay techniques. Hepatocytes prepared from sham trout possessed 1,696 +/- 179 beta-adrenoceptors/cell. These receptors were characterized as beta 2-adrenoceptors based on the potency order of specific inhibition of CGP binding. The number of putative surface beta 2-adrenoceptors significantly increased to 6,005 +/- 1,165 receptors/cell, in hepatocytes from trout exposed to the elevated plasma cortisol concentration. The physiological significance of the increase in hepatocyte surface receptors was assessed by the in vitro responsiveness of hepatocytes to a range of epinephrine concentrations (10-1,000 nmol/l). Both total glucose production and intracellular adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate content, indicators of epinephrine responsiveness, were enhanced as a result of chronically raised levels of plasma cortisol. We suggest that these cortisol-mediated alterations in the adrenergic responsiveness of trout hepatocytes may ultimately enhance the ability of the liver to supply glucose to the fish during acute stress after extended periods of chronic stress.
Age-dependent changes in afferent renal nerve activity in genetically hypertensive rats
Authors: Moss N. G. , Scoltock A. B.
Published: December 2017

Multiunit and single-unit recordings of afferent renal nerve activity (ARNA) were obtained in anesthetized spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats between 35 and 150 days of age. Intrapelvic backflow of urine at 20 mmHg excited ARNA at all ages in SHR (152 +/- 18% above control) and WKY rats (262 +/- 24%). In SHR, complete renal ischemia was more excitatory in rats older than 120 days (1,233 +/- 103%, n = 8) than in younger SHR (317 +/- 28%, n = 42). Single-unit recordings showed that this was related to the appearance of R1 chemoreceptors in older SHR and coincided with a decline in the proportion of R2 chemoreceptors in the renal nerves. Other chemoreceptive responses were identified in single units that did not show complete R1 or R2 characteristics, some of which showed responses consistent with a transformation process from R2 to R1 receptor type. R1 chemoreceptors were not present in WKY rats studied up to 150 days of age and, unlike SHR, the proportion of R2 chemoreceptors did not decline with age. Accordingly, complete renal ischemia in WKY rats caused a comparable excitation in multiunit ARNA at all ages (285 +/- 33%, n = 43). Oral enalapril from weaning to 100 days of age prevented hypertension in SHR but did not impair the responsiveness of ARNA to any stimulus. In WKY rats, enalapril treatment for the same period resulted in exaggerated ARNA response to renal ischemia (1,250 +/- 377% above control).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Decreased cardiorespiratory effects of neuropeptide Y in the nucleus tractus solitarius in diabetes
Authors: Dunbar J. C. , Ergene E. , Anderson G. F. , Barraco R. A.
Published: December 2017

It has been observed that diabetes results in increased neuropeptide Y (NPY) in various brain regions, especially the paraventricular nucleus, which projects to the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS). Because previous studies indicated a pathophysiological relationship between diabetes and NPY, we investigated the effect of diabetes on the sensitivity of NTS-mediated responses to NPY administration. Rats were made diabetic using streptozocin (55 mg/kg iv) and maintained for 48 to 50 days. Normal and streptozocin-diabetic rats were anesthetized with urethan and alpha-chloralose, instrumented for cardiovascular and respiratory monitoring, and positioned in a stereotaxic apparatus. The brain stem was exposed surgically. NPY (0.15 nmol/kg) was microinjected into the NTS and the cardiovascular and respiratory parameters were monitored for 60 min. Diabetes increased systolic (SAP), diastolic (DAP), and mean (Pa) blood pressure but not pulse pressure (PP) and heart rate (HR). Respiratory parameters were not altered. NPY significantly decreased SAP, DAP, Pa, PP, HR, respiratory rate, and minute volume in normal animals. In diabetic animals, NPY also decreased SAP, DAP, and Pa but pronouncedly increased PP. Although NPY decreased the SAP and Pa in diabetic animals, the response was attenuated compared with normal animals. The respiratory parameters and HR of diabetic animals, unlike normal animals, did not respond to NPY administration. We conclude that chronic diabetes results in a decreased sensitivity to NTS-mediated responses and that the hyporesponsiveness of the NTS to NPY modulation may be important in the tendency toward elevated blood pressure and hypertension in diabetes.
Fluid retention after oral loading with water or saline in camels
Authors: Benlamlih S. , Dahlborn K. , Filali R. Z. , Hossaini-Hilali J.
Published: December 2017

When dehydrated camels are offered water they drink volumes of water exceeding their body water loss during the water deprivation period. The excess water is excreted during 2-4 days. To investigate the ability to retain fluid in the body, normohydrated camels were loaded with water or isotonic saline (0.1 l/kg body wt) by esophageal tube. After water loading plasma osmolality decreased and a water diuresis was seen, but it took 3 days until the body weight returned to prehydration level. Plasma aldosterone concentration (PAC) increased, but plasma renin activity (PRA) and plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) concentration did not change. After the saline loading plasma osmolality increased and total plasma proteins and hematocrit decreased. Renal Na excretion increased 4 h after the saline load, but the magnitude of the natriuresis was small, and the camels had not regained their body weight 6 days after the load. PAC and PRA decreased after saline loading, while plasma ANP concentration did not change. These data show that camels are able to retain excess water within the body and to tolerate blood hyposmolality for a relatively long time. With saline the retention of fluid lasts even longer despite an attenuation of PAC.
Effect of sinoaortic denervation on pressor responses in pregnant rats
Authors: Hines T. , Barron W. M.
Published: December 2017

We tested the hypothesis that augmented arterial baroreflex activity contributes to attenuation of pressor responses in intact pregnant animals by comparing changes in blood pressure and heart rate during infusions of angiotensin II, phenylephrine, and vasopressin in chronically instrumented pregnant and virgin rats approximately 5 wk after sinoaortic denervation (SAD) or sham surgery. Baseline mean arterial pressure was significantly lower in pregnant animals in both the sham-operated (pregnant 91.7 +/- 1.7 mmHg, virgin 103.7 +/- 2.5 mmHg) and SAD states (pregnant 107.3 +/- 4.0 mmHg, virgin 114.1 +/- 4.0 mmHg). Pressor responses to all three agents were significantly blunted in pregnant animals compared with similarly treated virgins, with the magnitude of attenuation similar in both sham and SAD states. Heart rate decreased similarly in reflex-intact pregnant and virgin animals during pressor infusions. These findings suggest that attenuated pressor responses in the pregnant rat are due primarily to mechanisms other than augmentation of arterial baroreflex activity and are consistent with a generalized reduction in vascular sensitivity during gestation.
Two families of phase-response curves characterize the resetting of the hamster circadian clock
Authors: Smith R. D. , Turek F. W. , Takahashi J. S.
Published: December 2017

Phase-response curves (PRCs) have been reported for a wide variety of agents that induce phase shifts in the circadian rhythm of locomotor activity in the golden hamster. Many of these PRCs appear to be quite similar to one another. Because of the important role that the interpretation of PRCs has played in understanding the dynamics of the mammalian circadian pacemaker, a review of PRCs for the golden hamster reported from 1964 to 1991 was conducted to systematically summarize the common characteristics among these PRCs. Plots of phases associated with the peak of the advance portions, or of phases associated with the transitions between the delay and advance portion of the PRCs, revealed bimodal distributions of PRCs 11-13 h apart. Mardia-Watson-Wheeler circular test statistics indicated that the PRCs were distributed as two distinct populations. PRCs were either characteristic of those for light pulses (L-PRCs), or of those for dark pulses (D-PRCs). Taken with anatomical and physiological evidence, these data suggest that either one or two final common pathways may exist to mediate the phase-shifting effects of different stimuli.
Short-term effect of aldosterone on Na-Cl transport across equine colon
Authors: Clarke L. L. , Roberts M. C. , Grubb B. R. , Argenzio R. A.
Published: December 2017

In ponies fed concentrated (pelleted) meals, postprandial increases of plasma aldosterone have been temporally associated with a decrease in colonic fluid volume that parallels the conclusion of postfeeding fermentation. To determine the significance of short-term increases of plasma aldosterone on the rate of colonic Na absorption, in vitro transport studies were conducted on the mucosae of three morphologically distinct colonic segments (i.e., ventral, dorsal, and small colons) from ponies infused with a high physiological concentration of aldosterone for an 8-h period. In control ponies, basal NaCl absorption across the proximal colon (ventral and dorsal colons) was amiloride-insensitive and electroneutral. In aldosterone-treated ponies, the rate of electroneutral Na absorption was doubled in both segments and a small, amiloride-sensitive current was detected in the dorsal colon. However, consistent with previous observations [Clarke and Argenzio. Am. J. Physiol. 259 (Gastrointest. Liver Physiol. 22): G62-G69, 1990], expression of electroneutral Na absorption in the ventral colon required pretreatment of the tissues with an inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis, i.e., indomethacin. In the distal (small) colon, basal absorption was entirely electrogenic and amiloride-sensitive, and aldosterone treatment tripled the rate of absorption. The above findings are consistent with the notion that postprandial hyperaldosteronism can significantly increase colonic Na absorption and, thereby, may facilitate colonic fluid absorption during the concluding period of meal-induced fermentation (8-12 h postfeeding). However, in the ventral colon (i.e., the principal site of fermentation), mineralocorticoid action does not dominate control of electroneutral Na transport because accelerated absorption could be abolished by the antiabsorptive effect of local prostanoids.
Absence of focal glomerulosclerosis in aging analbuminemic rats
Authors: Fujihara C. K. , Limongi D. M. , De Oliveira H. C. , Zatz R.
Published: December 2017

The Nagase analbuminemic rat (NAR), a mutant of the Sprague-Dawley (SD) strain, exhibits high levels of plasma cholesterol (Chol), thrombocytosis, and enhanced platelet aggregability, which might promote glomerulosclerosis (GS). To determine whether NAR are more susceptible than SD rats to aging GS, young (3-mo-old) and aging (18-mo-old) SD rats and NAR were studied. In young NAR, glomerular pressure and glomerular volume were lower, whereas total and high-density lipoprotein plasma Chol levels were higher than in young SD rats. Aging SD rats developed glomerular hypertension and hypertrophy. Less glomerular enlargement and subnormal glomerular pressures were seen in aging NAR. Enhanced platelet aggregation developed in aging SD rats, approaching the values seen in NAR. Similarly elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein Chol were seen in additional SD rats and NAR studied at 12 mo of age. Plasma triglyceride (TG) levels were lower in NAR at this age. Only SD rats developed proteinuria and exhibited GS and glomerular lipid deposits at 18 mo of age. Reduced glomerular wall stress due to lower glomerular pressure and volume as well as lower TG levels may explain the absence of GS in aging NAR despite plasma lipid and platelet abnormalities.
Exercise-induced sympathetic FFA mobilization in VMH-lesioned rats is normalized by fasting
Authors: Balkan B. , Van Dijk G. , Strubbe J. H. , Bruggink J. E. , Steffens A. B.
Published: December 2017

This study investigates whether reduced sympathetic responses during physical exercise in ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH)-lesioned obese rats are the direct result of damage to hypothalamic circuits or a secondary effect of the altered metabolism in obesity. Obese, VMH-lesioned rats and lean controls were deprived of food for 48 h and submitted to 15 min of swimming. Food-deprived lean and obese rats displayed increased free fatty acid mobilization and utilization, whereas blood glucose concentrations were decreased. Basal plasma insulin levels were reduced by fasting in both groups, when compared with the ad libitum situation, but remained higher in the obese animals. Fasting augmented the norepinephrine response of the obese rats, resulting in equal profiles in lean and obese animals. These results indicate that VMH-lesioned animals are able to increase the sympathetic activation of adipose tissue during exercise to overcome an energy deficiency. Therefore, the function of the VMH in the regulation of the sympathetic nervous system controlling metabolism can be taken over by redundant mechanisms. The reduced sympathetic activity in ad libitum fed VMH-lesioned animals is therefore likely to be the result of the altered metabolism.
Strong conservation of the expression of cystatin C gene in choroid plexus
Authors: Tu G. F. , Aldred A. R. , Southwell B. R. , Schreiber G.
Published: December 2017

The expression of the cystatin C gene was studied by Northern analysis of RNA isolated from the choroid plexus, other brain tissues, and liver from 11 mammalian and 4 avian species. The probe used for hybridization was cystatin C cDNA isolated previously from a rat choroid plexus cDNA library. Strong conservation of the expression of the cystatin C gene in choroid plexus was suggested by the observation of substantial levels of cystatin C mRNA in choroid plexus RNA from all mammalian and avian species studied. In contrast, levels of cystatin C mRNA in total liver RNA varied widely for mammalian as well as for avian species. It was concluded that the synthesis of cystatin C in choroid plexus has probably been conserved since the stage of the stem reptiles, the common ancestors of mammals and birds. The cystatin C gene was also found to be expressed early in ontogeny, as indicated by the observation of similar cystatin C mRNA levels in choroid plexus RNA from newly hatched and adult chickens.
Possible mediation by luminal somatostatin of bombesin-induced satiety in the cat
Authors: Bado A. , Moizo L. , Laigneau J. P. , Gauthier M. , Dubrasquet M. , Lewin M. J.
Published: December 2017

Intravenous bombesin produced a dose-related stimulation of luminal gastric somatostatin output and a concomitant dose-dependent inhibition of food intake in the gastric fistula cat. Maximal food intake inhibition was observed at 1,280 pmol.kg-1.h-1 and corresponded to 65 +/- 7% (P less than 0.01). These effects of bombesin were dose dependently abolished by the specific bombesin-receptor antagonist, [Leu13-psi(CH2NH)-Leu14]bombesin. Furthermore, intragastric administration of somatostatin-14, at doses corresponding to those found in the gastric lumen in response to intravenously administered bombesin, significantly inhibited the first 30 min of food intake. This administration had however no effect on total (daily) food intake. We therefore suggest that luminal gastric somatostatin could at least account for bombesin-induced short-term satiety.
Surgical and pharmacological dissociation of cardiovascular and emetic responses to intragastric CuSO4
Authors: Makale M. T. , King G. L.
Published: December 2017

Under control (intact and laparotomized) conditions, arterial pressure of urethan-anesthetized ferrets rose significantly in response to intragastric copper sulfate (CuSO4; 10 ml of 5 mg/ml). CuSO4 was emetic 75-90% of the time, and a cardiovascular response always immediately preceded and accompanied emetic responses. The cardiovascular response was significantly reduced or abolished by hexamethonium (0.35 mg/kg) pretreatment combined with atropine methyl bromide (1 mg/kg). Addition of the alpha 2-receptor antagonist 2,3-dichloro-alpha-methylbenzylamine HCl (DCMB, 10 mg/kg) and the beta-receptor antagonist propranolol (3 mg/kg) to the hexamethonium and atropine combination prevented its reduction of the cardiovascular response. Given individually, these agents did not alter cardiovascular response, nor did yohimbine (0.30 mg/kg), RS(+/-)-zacopride (0.30 mg/kg), or granisetron (0.50 mg/kg). Only RS(+/-)-zacopride significantly reduced incidence of emesis. Atropine methyl bromide alone, with hexamethonium, or with hexamethonium, propranolol, and DCMB significantly delayed the first emetic episode. Conversely, bilateral abdominal vagotomy significantly reduced the number of vomiting animals without affecting cardiovascular response. These results suggest that the neural pathways mediating the two events are not identical. In another series of experiments, a significantly greater proportion of animals vomited in response to intragastric CuSO4 than to intraduodenal CuSO4, suggesting that the primary site of CuSO4 action in the ferret is the stomach.
Neural regulation of the vas deferens in the rat: an electrophysiological analysis
Authors: Kolbeck S. C. , Steers W. D.
Published: December 2017

Electrophysiological analysis of the neural control of the vas deferens was performed in urethan-anesthetized rats. Intraluminal distension (0.2 ml/min) or electrical stimulation of hypogastric (threshold 1-5 V, 20 Hz) and pelvic nerves (2-5 V, 20 Hz) produced contractions of the vas deferens. Distension-evoked contractile activity was not abolished by nicotinic ganglionic blockade or ipsilateral hypogastric and pelvic nerve transection. Contractions following hypogastric nerve stimulation were abolished by prazosin, while pelvic nerve-evoked responses were partially blocked by atropine. Hypogastric nerve, pelvic nerve, and sympathetic chain stimulation evoked volleys with latencies of 10-30 ms in vasal nerves. Crude estimates for conduction velocities for these responses (less than 0.5 m/s) corresponded to activation of unmyelinated C-fibers. Stimulation of the dorsal nerve of the penis (DNP) (10-16 V, 10-40 Hz) or administration of 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine, both of which produce seminal emission, elicited reflex discharges in nerves to the vas deferens. Hypogastric nerve but not pelvic nerve transection abolished both spontaneous and evoked (105- to 380-ms latency) reflex activity. These experiments provide insight into the organization of afferents in the DNP and efferents conveyed by autonomic pathways that regulate male reproduction.
Cholecystokinin (CCK-8) affects gastric pressure and ratings of hunger and fullness in women
Authors: Melton P. M. , Kissileff H. R. , Pi-Sunyer F. X.
Published: December 2017

Cholecystokinin (CCK) may affect food intake by augmenting neural activity from the distended stomach, thereby amplifying satiety signals. To test the hypothesis that subjects would report more fullness and less hunger with gastric distension when CCK-8 (112 ng/min) was infused than when saline was infused, a gastric balloon was inflated in the stomachs of four women. When the balloon was inflated to 500 ml, there was no difference in gastric pressure between the CCK-8 and saline conditions. Nonetheless, ratings of fullness were higher with CCK-8 administration. When the balloon was inflated to the maximum volume tolerated, the pressure rise was significantly smaller with CCK-8 infusion. In addition, fullness ratings rose and hunger ratings declined more steeply in relation to gastric pressure when CCK-8 was infused. In all conditions, gastric contractions were practically abolished with CCK-8 infusion. CCK-8 relaxed the stomach and concurrently sensitized the subjects to gastric pressure.
Role of intestinal basolateral membrane in absorption of nutrients
Authors: Cheeseman C.
Published: December 2017

Organic solutes leave the intestinal epithelium and enter the circulation via specific facilitated carriers located in the basolateral membrane. In the case of glucose it is a low-affinity, high-capacity transport system that can adapt to the carbohydrate content of the diet. Chronic diabetes also promotes the exit of glucose, and in both cases the effect results from an increased density of carriers in the basolateral membrane. In contrast, a rapid upregulation of this system that can be induced within 30 min by hyperglycemia does not involve large changes in the amount of transporter protein. Similarly, the absorptive capacity of the small intestine from some amino acids can be influenced by events occurring at the basolateral membrane. In the case of dibasic amino acid absorption, exit from the epithelium is the rate-limiting step. The activity of the basolateral carrier can be increased almost 10-fold within 60 s by the addition of micromolar concentrations of the neutral amino acid leucine to either the lumen or the plasma. This response does not involve the second messenger adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate and may represent an allosteric modulation of the carrier. These observations are discussed in relation to the role of the basolateral membrane as a locus for controlling intestinal absorption of organic nutrients.
The effect of dietary fat on diet selection may involve central serotonin
Authors: Mullen B. J. , Martin R. J.
Published: December 2017

Rats consuming a diet of 34% tallow select more protein and less carbohydrate than rats fed either 5% corn oil or tallow or 34% corn oil (25). To examine potential mechanism(s) of this phenomenon, we fed rats diets containing either tallow or corn oil at levels of 5 or 34% for 2 days. Sera were analyzed, and rats fed 34% tallow had higher serum insulin compared with those fed 34% corn oil. In a second experiment, rats were fed either 34% corn oil or tallow for 2 days. Brain tissues were analyzed, and rats fed 34% tallow had elevated serotonin in the raphe area compared with those fed 34% corn oil. In a third experiment, rats were fed either 34% corn oil or tallow for 2 days and then given dl-fenfluramine before diet selection. Fenfluramine depressed food intake to a greater degree in rats fed 34% tallow compared with those fed corn oil. These findings suggest that the diet selection behavior observed in tallow-fed rats may be mediated by a central serotonin system.
Coordination of respiration and swallowing: effect of bolus volume in normal adults
Authors: Preiksaitis H. G. , Mayrand S. , Robins K. , Diamant N. E.
Published: December 2017

The coordination of swallowing and respiration, as measured by nasal airflow, and the effect of changes in the volume of the swallow bolus (0-20 ml) were investigated in 12 normal subjects. Both nonbolus and bolus swallows were usually preceded and followed by expiratory airflow. Swallows followed by inspiratory airflow accounted for 20% of nonbolus swallows but decreased further in frequency in the presence of a bolus. Swallowing was associated with an apneic period lasting 1.90 +/- 0.26 s for nonbolus swallows. Based on the apneic period response to bolus volume, the subjects were divided into two groups. The apneic period decreased by 60% in seven of the subjects regardless of bolus volume. The remaining five subjects gradually increased swallow apnea as bolus volume was increased. At larger bolus volumes, the latter group also exhibited an earlier onset of the swallow apnea and an increase in the number of swallows preceded by inspiration. The duration of the swallow-associated respiratory cycle was similarly prolonged by an increase in bolus volume in both groups. The results indicate that the respiratory pattern associated with swallowing is modulated by the volume of the swallow bolus. Within the normal population, at least two different patterns of response to bolus volume are identified.
Ontogeny of DA1 receptor-mediated natriuresis in the rat: in vivo and in vitro correlations
Authors: Kaneko S. , Albrecht F. , Asico L. D. , Eisner G. M. , Robillard J. E. , Jose P. A.
Published: December 2017

The natriuretic and diuretic effects of dopamine are attenuated in the young. Because dopamine has actions on receptors (e.g., adrenergic, serotonin) other than dopamine, we studied a novel dopamine agonist, pramipexole, which has a selectivity to both DA1 and DA2-receptor subtypes. Intravenous administration of pramipexole resulted in a dose-related (1, 10, and 100 micrograms.kg-1.min-1) increase in urine flow and absolute and fractional sodium excretion and a decrease in mean arterial pressure (MAP) in three groups of rats studied. Pramipexole induced a greater decrease in MAP in 6- to 7- (n = 5) and 9- to 16- (n = 6) than in 3- to 4-wk-old (n = 8) rats; the natriuresis and diuresis were greatest in 12- to 16- and least in 3- to 4-wk-old rats. The renal effects of pramipexole were mainly due to actions at the DA1 receptor, since these effects were completely blocked by the coinfusion of a DA1 antagonist, SKF 83742. To explore further a cause of the attenuated natriuretic effect of pramipexole in the young, we studied the effect of a selective DA1-receptor agonist, fenoldopam, on amiloride-sensitive 22Na+ uptake in renal brush-border membrane vesicles. The 3-s amiloride-sensitive uptake was inhibited (45%) by fenoldopam (5 x 10(-5)M) in 9- to 16- (n = 6) but not in 3- to 4-wk-old (n = 5) rats. These studies suggest that the attenuated natriuretic effect of dopamine in the young is in part due to decreased DA1 action on the brush-border membrane Na(+)-H+ exchanger.
Habituation of lactate release responding to stressful stimuli in rat prefrontal cortex in vivo
Authors: Takita M. , Mikuni M. , Takahashi K.
Published: December 2017

The extracellular level of lactate is mainly dependent on functional glucose metabolism in most brain cells regulated in part by neuronal activity. We investigated the effect of environmental stimuli on lactate release in rat medial prefrontal cortex (MPFC) by in vivo brain microdialysis. Lactate release was clearly demonstrated to increase immediately and transiently from its steady-state levels after various stimuli (tail pinch for 1 min, 100-dB white noise for 5 min, and immobilization for 5 min). These stimuli-induced increments were depressed after a second trial 1 h later in a manner consistent with dishabituation to a novel stimulus and “below-zero” habituation by several repetition. Likewise the local perfusion of dopamine or norepinephrine transiently increased and then diminished the second perfusion-induced increase in MPFC lactate release consistent with desensitization. These results suggest the possibility that stressful stimuli produce one-trial habituation of lactate release in MPFC via a mechanism involving the regulation of the catecholaminergic system.
Microsphere and dilution techniques for the determination of blood flows and volumes in conscious mice
Authors: Barbee R. W. , Perry B. D. , Re R. N. , Murgo J. P.
Published: December 2017

Although the mouse is the most commonly used transgenic species, little is known regarding cardiovascular and fluid homeostasis in this animal. Therefore, the reference microsphere and dilution techniques were adapted for the measurement of cardiac output (CO), regional blood flows, and intravascular fluid volumes in the conscious mouse. Previously acclimatized C3H mice were studied 4-5 h after surgery and recovery from anesthesia. Approximately 40,000 85Sr-labeled microspheres were injected into the left ventricle while a reference sample was withdrawn at one of two rates from the femoral artery. 51Cr and 125I were used for the determination of blood volume (BV), plasma volume (PV), and Fcells ratio (whole body hematocrit/large vessel hematocrit). CO and BV in the conscious mouse were 16 +/- 1.4 ml/min and 2.3 +/- 0.1 ml, respectively. Anesthesia lowered heart rate, blood pressure, PV, and altered the distribution of CO. Two successive injections of 15,000-20,000 microspheres were tolerated in the mouse without an increase in total peripheral resistance. The results indicate that the microsphere and indicator dilution techniques can be applied to study cardiovascular and fluid homeostasis in the mouse.
Early insulin response after food intake in geese
Authors: Karmann H. , Rideau N. , Zorn T. , Malan A. , Le Maho Y.
Published: December 2017

Plasma glucose and insulin levels were measured in chronically catheterized, freely moving, undisturbed geese, which were offered a free standard meal after an overnight fast. The insulin level markedly rose within the first minute after the start of food ingestion, whereas plasma glucose did not increase. This early insulin response was not correlated with the size of the meal. In contrast, both postabsorptive insulin response and plasma glucose changes were dependent on meal size. When a small amount of food (2-6 g) was eaten, insulin returned to basal level within 30 min, whereas plasma glucose remained unchanged. Larger meals (15-20 g) maintained plasma insulin at a higher level and induced a sustained rise of plasma glucose. These results indicate that there is a cephalic phase of insulin secretion at the beginning of the meal in birds as previously described in mammals.