bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RADIOIMMUNOASSAY OF TETRAHYDROCORTICOSTERONE (THB) IN HUMAN URINE
Authors: Kohl K.-H. , Gless K.-H. , Abdelhamid S. , Penke B. , Vecsei P.
Published: December 2008

Antisera against tetrahydrocorticosterone (THB) (one of the metabolites of the glucocorticoid corticosterone) were raised in white New Zealand rabbits. A 3α,5β-THB-20-oxime-bovine serum albumin complex was used as antigen. The resulting titers were 1/300–1/19 000. The cross-reactions of the best antiserum were: THDOC 2.25%, THB-21-glucuronide 39%, and THF-21-glucuronide 4.8%. Other steroids and steroid metabolites have given negligible cross-reactions, e. g. allo-(3α,5α-)-THB 0.53 %, tetrahydro-11-dehydro-corticosterone (THA) 0.92%, allo-THA 0%, and THB-3-glucuronide 0 %.

Two methods were introduced: a) for screening an estimation of THB-glucuronide, mostly THB-21-glucuronide ("THB-gluc."), in unprocessed urine after simple dilution b) specific estimation of THB using one paper chromatographic system.

The values estimated by method a) showed a highly significant correlation (r = 0.9654, P < 0.01) with the values obtained by technique b).

Normal values (method b) measured in subjects hospitalized under standardized conditions were: 21.8–177.6; mean 89.1 μg/24 h.

THB levels and "THB-gluc." levels react to ACTH stimulation and dexamethasone suppression and thus we propose that the methods are useful for the diagnosis of hyper- and hypocorticosterone production states.
DETECTION OF CHORIONIC GONADOTROPHIN LIKE ACTIVITY IN INFERTILE CYCLES WITH A SHORT LUTEAL PHASE
Authors: Seppälä M. , Lehtovirta P. , Rutanen E.-M.
Published: December 2008

Three of 24 infertile women with a short luteal phase transiently showed chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) like immunoreactivity in serum as measured by the HCG-beta subunit radioimmunoassay. The plasma progesterone concentration was elevated above the lower normal post-ovulatory level in 2 of these women who also had elevated basal body temperature at the time HCG was detected. Positive HCG reaction coincided with the pre-ovulatory surge of luteinizing hormone (LH) in one patient, but in 2 other cases the LH concentration was low suggesting absence of LH interference. Our results suggest that some infertile women may conceive during their cycles with a short luteal phase and maintain pregnancy until HCG becomes detectable.
CORRELATIVE STUDY OF RADIORECEPTOR ASSAY AND RADIOIMMUNOASSAY OF SERUM GROWTH HORMONE IN CHILDREN
Authors: Garnier Philippe E. , Repellin A. M. , Job Jean-Claude
Published: December 2008

Growth hormone (GH) was measured by radioreceptorassay (RRA) and radioimmunoassay (RIA) in the sera of 24 children with idiopathic primary growth retardation (PGR), 15 with genetic short stature (GSS) and 11 with intra-uterine growth retardation (IUGR), and compared to results obtained in normal children. The average RRA/RIA ratio was close to normal in PGR (1.02 ± 0.05) and in IUGR (1.06 ± 0.07), and slightly though not significantly lower in GSS (0.86 ± 0.06). Some variability in RRA/RIA ratio was found in individual patients of each group, and some sera gave a non-parallel displacement of the tracer when compared to the standard curve. But no genetic difference of RRA-assayable GH was found between the three groups studied and normal children.
INCREASED VASOPRESSIN EXCRETION IN PATIENTS WITH HYPOTHYROIDISM
Authors: Waters A. K.
Published: December 2008

Twenty-four h urinary vasopressin excretion was measured by bioassay in 15 patients with untreated hypothyroidism and compared with plasma sodium concentration.

Four patients had raised excretion of an antidiuretic substance and in 3 of these patients excretion was reduced after thyroid replacement therapy. The criteria applied supported the view that the antidiuretic substance was arginine vasopressin. Plasma sodium concentration was normal in all these 4 patients. A further 4 patients had hyponatraemia without raised arginine vasopressin excretion.

The results suggest that:

(1) excess arginine vasopressin secretion is not the cause of the hyponatraemia of hypothyroidism and

(2) an increased secretion of arginine vasopressin does occur in some cases of normonatraemic hypothyroidism, the cause requiring further elucidation.
HLA ANTIGENS IN A FAMILY WITH MATURITY-ONSET TYPE DIABETES MELLITUS
Authors: Faber O. K. , Thomsen M. , Binder C. , Platz P. , Svejgaard A.
Published: December 2008

In a family with maturity-onset type of diabetes mellitus inherited as a dominant, autosomal trait (MODY), the HLA genotypes were compared with the glucose tolerance and the plasma insulin response to oral glucose. In the members with impaired glucose tolerance, the plasma insulin response was of the insulino-tardic type, while those with normal or border-line glucose tolerance had a normal plasma insulin response.

HLA tissue typing for A, B, C and D series antigens carried out in 19 of the members showed no association between specific HLA antigens and impaired glucose tolerance. Moreover, when analysing the segregation of the disease and the HLA characters, several recombinants between MODY and HLA would have to be postulated if the gene(s) for this form of diabetes mellitus should be closely linked to the HLA locus.
PARTICIPATION OF ANTRAL SOMATOSTATIN IN THE LOCAL REGULATION OF GASTRIN RELEASE
Authors: Gustavsson Sven , Lundqvist Gudmar
Published: December 2008

In anaesthetized pigs gastrin release was stimulated by irrigation of the antrum with bicarbonate and by instillation of a meat extract. The concentration of gastrin and somatostatin was measured by radioimmunoassay both in the antral and peripheral venous blood. The increase in gastrin was coupled to a significant decrease in somatostatin immunoreactivity as measured in the antral venous blood both during instillation of alkali and meat extract. In peripheral blood, the differences were much less evident and not statistically significant. It is speculated that the decrease in release of antral somatostatin during alkalinization and instillation of meat extract is the primary event which is followed by a diminished inhibition of gastrin liberation. Thus, the present data support the hypothesis that antral somatostatin participates in the local regulation of gastrin release.
ADRENAL CYSTS: HORMONAL CONTENTS AND FUNCTIONAL EVALUATION
Authors: Jacobi Jorge D. , Carballeira Andres , Fishman Lawrence M.
Published: December 2008

Cortisol, corticosterone, epinephrine and norepinephrine have been identified for the first time in two adrenal cysts removed from patients without endocrine dysfunction. Total concentrations of corticosteroids and catecholamines in both capsule and fluid of these cysts were higher than in plasma of normal subjects but lower than in human adrenal tissue. The cysts contained preformed cholesterol in concentrations similar to normal adrenal parenchyma. Contrary to adrenal tissue, however, homogenates of cyst components failed to utilize [4-14C] cholesterol for steroid formation. The data presented suggest that hormones in adrenal cysts probably arise by passive diffusion from the surrounding gland and that the endocrine status of patients bearing adrenal cysts is determined by the adjacent non-cystic tissue.
FOLLICLE GROWTH IN THE IMMATURE RAT OVARY
Authors: Hage A. J. , Groen-Klevant A. C. , Welschen R.
Published: December 2008

In ovaries of immature rats the following parameters were estimated from autoradiographs prepared after pulse labelling with tritiated thymidine:

1) The time it takes follicles to grow from one stage of development to another. This could be derived from the total number of granulosa cells in these stages and from their doubling times. The doubling time of granulosa cells was determined from their labelling index and the duration of their DNA-synthesis phase.

2) The number of follicles present in the ovary at different ages.

3) The number of follicles, which start on their development at different ages.

It was found, that more follicles start to grow in 8 and 16 days old rats (2.0/h) than in 28 days old ones (1.0/h). Moreover, the follicles grow somewhat faster earlier in life than later. The development from a follicle with one layer of granulosa cells to one with several layers and antrum formation takes about 15 days in the first half of the period of immaturity while it takes about 17 days as the animal approaches maturity.
HUMAN PROSTATIC CARCINOMA: SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCES IN ITS ANDROGEN BINDING AND METABOLISM COMPARED TO THE HUMAN BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERTROPHY
Authors: Krieg M. , Grobe I. , Voigt K. D. , Altenähr E. , Klosterhalfen H.
Published: December 2008

The in vitro binding of 5α-dihydrotestosterone (5α-DHT), oestradiol-17β (Oe2) and methyltrienolone (R1881) was quantified in the 100 000 × g cytosol of 14 human prostatic carcinomas (PCA) by agargel electrophoresis, and compared, in part, to respective data obtained from human benign prostatic hypertrophy (BHP) samples. Furthermore, the in vitro metabolism of added 5α-DHT, testosterone (T) and 5α-androstane-3α,17β-diol in 10 of the 14 PCA, and for comparison, in 16 BPH samples, was analyzed by thin-layer chromatography, after a 30 min incubation period at 37°C.

The main results were as follows: 1) Besides a sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) binding peak, in each of the 14 PCA cytosols a [3H]5α-DHT receptor binding could be demonstrated. By competition studies with unlabelled 5α-DHT a mean 5α-DHT receptor concentration of 30.9 fmol/mg cytosol protein (CP) (range 6.0–93.5) was calculated. In each of 7 cytosolic aliquots, incubated parallely with Oe2, an Oe2-binding to the receptor could be demonstrated, the concentration amounting to 8.4 fmol/mg CP (range 4.2–14.3). Simultaneous receptor quantification with R1881 in 4 cases revealed results, which are identical with the respective 5α-DHT data. 2) Dividing the PCA samples in group A (n = 6), consisting exclusively of adenocarcinomas, and group B (n = 8), consisting predominantly of a cribriform or cribriform and low differentiated tumour type, group B has a significantly (P < 0.05) higher assayable receptor concentration than group A. Comparing the total PCA with the BPH group, the former group has significantly (P < 0.04) higher levels of 5α-DHT receptor sites. 3) Comparing the mean cytosolic SHBG concentration of the PCA (93.2 fmol/mg CP) with the BPH (39.9 fmol/mg CP), the difference is significant (P < 0.01). Furthermore with respect to the PCA, there exists a significantly (P < 0.02) positive correlation between the plasmatic and cytosolic SHBG concentration. 4) The metabolic studies revealed that much more of the added T or 5α-DHT remains unmetabolized in the PCA than in the BPH. After T incubation, the amount of identified 5α-DHT plus 5α-androstanediols is on average 15 % lower in the PCA compared to the BPH. If 5α-DHT is added, the amount of identified 5α-androstanediols is on average 47 % lower in the PCA than in the BPH.
1,25-DIHYDROXYCHOLECALCIFEROL IN HYPOPHOSPHATAEMIC OSTEOMALACIA PRESENTING IN ADULTS
Authors: Offermann G. , Delling G. , Haussler M. R.
Published: December 2008

The effects of exogenous 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (1,25(OH)2D3) in two adults with late-onset hypophosphataemic osteomalacia were studied. In the presence of elevated 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels 1,25(OH)2D3 improved intestinal 17Ca absorption and increased urinary calcium, phosphate and hydroxyproline excretion. Hypophosphataemia, parathyroid hormone and bone mineralization were not significantly affected. The rise of the 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D concentrations was dose dependent. The results indicate that the impaired renal phosphate conservation - the primary defect in this disorder - is not corrected by exogenous 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol.
RADIOIMMUNOASSAY STUDY OF NEUROPHYSINS IN HUMAN PLASMA
Authors: Reinharz Anja C. , Tissot-Berhet Marie-Christine , Vallotton Michel B.
Published: December 2008

Using a homologous system we have developed a specific and sensitive radioimmunoassay for the measurement of one of the human neurophysins in unextracted human plasma. This neurophysin is specifically secreted in response to oestrogen and has therefore been referred to as human oestrogen-stimulated neurophysin (h-OeSN). The plasma concentration was 0.57 ± 0.17 ng/ml (sd) in females and 0.88 ± 0.76 ng/ml (sd) in males. This difference is not significant. In women on oral contraceptives, plasma h-OeSN was 2.0 ± 1.1 ng/ml. During pregnancy h-OeSN increased progressively to 3.7 ± 2.9 ng/ml at the end of the first trimester, and 5.2 ± 2.8 ng/ml at term. Plasma h-OeSN concentrations increased rapidly and markedly in men treated with ethinyl-oestradiol. We have also demonstrated the presence of h-OeSN in amniotic and cerebrospinal fluids. A second human neurophysin, which is stimulated by nicotine but not by oestrogen, was also measured. This neurophysin was monitored by a heterologous system using antiserum raised against bovine neurophysin II (b-NII), and b-NII as the standard and tracer.
THE RELATIONSHIP OF RADIOIMMUNOASSAY TO BIOASSAY: IN VITRO STUDIES WITH SYNTHETIC LYSINE VASOPRESSIN IN AQUEOUS SOLUTION INACTIVATED BY HEAT
Authors: Lembøl Hanne Løve
Published: December 2008

The relationship of radioimmunoassay to pressor assay and antidiuretic assay was investigated in a simple in vitro system of synthetic lysine vasopressin in aqueous solution inactivated by heating at 100°C for 9, 18, 27, 36, 54 and 72 h.

An apparent dissociation between radioimmunoassay and bioassay was demonstrated, with biological activity being lost more rapidly than immunological activity. The half-times were 32 h for radioimmunoassay, 23 h for antidiuretic assay and 22 h for pressor assay.

However, ion-exchange chromatography showed immunological heterogeneity but biological homogeneity of the lysine vasopressin used, and indicated that the presence of impurities in the vasopressin might to some extent explain the discrepancy between assay results.

Synthetic arginine vasopressin and arginine vasopressin of pituitary origin showed a similar immunological heterogeneity by ion-exchange chromatography.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SERUM PROTEIN-BOUND IODINE LEVELS AND URINARY IODINE EXCRETION AND SERUM THYROTROPHIN CONCENTRATIONS IN SUBJECTS FROM AN ENDEMIC GOITRE AREA IN CENTRAL JAVA
Authors: Hennemann G. , Djokomoeljanto R. , Docter R. , Goslings B. M. , van Hardeveld C. , Smeenk D. , Querido A.
Published: December 2008

Urinary 127I excretion, 24 h thyroid 131I uptake and serum values of thyrotrophin (TSH), triiodothyronine (T3) and protein-bound iodine (PBI) were measured in subjects from an area with severe (Segni) and moderate (Londjong) iodine deficiency. In Segni, 90 non-cretinous subjects and 40 cretins were studied. In both sub-groups from Segni non-compensated iodine deficiency was found. Although iodine excretion in these sub-groups was the same (mean: ± sd, 127I μg per g creatinine; non-cretins 16.9 ± 10.1 and cretins 15.2 ± 8.0) thyroid hormone serum levels were less in the cretins probably due to additional primary thyroid failure. In the subjects (non-cretins plus cretins) from Segni a positive relationship (r=0.39, P < 0.001) was found between urinary 127I excretion and serum PBI. Moreover in the same subjects a negative correlation was found between serum PBI and TSH (r=0.43; P < 0.001) while serum T3 did not correlate with TSH. In the Londjong area (mean ± sd 127I urinary excretion: 41.6 ± 18.6 μg per g creatinine) iodine deficiency appeared to be compensated in 52 subjects studied since mean serum levels of TSH, PBI and T3 were within normal range. No correlation between PBI and serum TSH was found. PBI too did not correlate with iodine excretion despite the fact that 37 subjects excreted less than 48 μg 127I per g creatinine below which value iodine excretion varied in all but one of the studied subjects from Segni. It is suggested on the basis of a difference in the average iodine intake between the groups from Segni and Londjong, that lack of "iodine buffer capacity" of the thyroid gland in the Segni subjects leads to a situation where changes in iodine intake are readily reflected in T4 production resulting in the correlation found between PBI and urinary excretion in this group.
SERUM LEVELS OF TSH, T3, rT3, T4 AND T3-RESIN UPTAKE IN SURGICAL TRAUMA
Authors: Adami H.-O. , Johansson H. , Thorén L. , Wide L. , Åkerström G.
Published: December 2008

Changes in thyroid hormone metabolism induced by surgical trauma were studied by determination of TSH, T3, rT3, T4 and T3-resin uptake before, during and after mastectomy in 20 women and cholecystectomy in 10 women. Pronounced and reciprocal changes, explained by altered peripheral T4 metabolism were found concerning T3 and rT3. The decreased T3 and increased rT3-levels approached or exceeded the limits of the reference range on the first post-operative day. A significant increase in T3-resin uptake and a decrease in serum T4 were already observed during surgery and probably was caused by a decreased protein binding capacity. An increased concentration of TSH in the serum during surgery was followed by a significant post-operative decrease, possibly due to a suppressive effect of endogenous cortisol. No obvious difference in absolute values or the pattern of change was found between the mastectomy and cholecystectomy groups, although a somewhat more pronounced and retarded alteration in rT3 was found after cholecystectomy.
LH-RH TESTING IN MEN WITH DOWN'S SYNDROME
Authors: Horan Richard F. , Beitins Inese Z. , Bode Hans Henning
Published: December 2008

Males with Down's syndrome frequently present incomplete sexual development and are presumed to be sterile. The intent of this study is to clarify the aetiology of diminished sexual function in men with trisomy 21. Single dose LH-RH stimulation tests were performed in 6 men with Down's syndrome. Compared to a control group of 6 mentally retarded, institutionalized males, the subjects with Down's syndrome had markedly elevated basal FSH and slightly elevated basal LH concentrations. The FSH response to LH-RH stimulation was notably increased in the Down's syndrome group, while the LH response showed a lesser increase. Testosterone concentrations were found to be comparable in the two groups. The results are consistent with the clinical assumption that males with Down's syndrome have decreased spermatogenesis and infertility and that their Leydig cell function is less affected.
CHRONIC TREATMENT WITH LH-RH IN GOLDEN HAMSTERS
Authors: Sandow J. , Hahn M.
Published: December 2008

Male golden hamsters were treated with low doses (50 or 100 ng) or high doses (500–1000 ng) of LH-RH for periods of 10 to 21 days. Gonadal atrophy was induced by blinding. Treatment of intact hamsters with high doses of LH-RH reduced pituitary sensitivity to a test dose of LH-RH given at the end of the experiment. Concomitantly, testis and seminal vesicles were reduced in weight. In blind hamsters with gonadal atrophy, low dose treatment with LH-RH for 21 days reversed testicular atrophy and restored spermatogenesis, while the high dose treatment partly reversed testicular atrophy (viz. increased tubular diameter) but inhibited spermatogenesis. Low dose treatment also increased testicular and seminal vesicles weight in blinded hamsters, whereas high dose treatment did not change these parameters. It is concluded, that a positive effect on testicular function may only be obtained by low dose treatment with LH-RH, whereas high dose treatment induces a negative feedback blocking the effect of LH-RH on pituitary gonadotrophin secretion.
SERUM SOMATOMEDIN A IN GROWTH RETARDED CHILDREN
Authors: Hizuka Naomi , Takano Kazue , Shizume Kazuo , Kawai Koichi
Published: December 2008

The levels of serum somatomedin A were determined in 59 growth retarded Japanese children by a radioreceptor assay. Low levels were found in 10 children with growth hormone (GH) deficiency and 7 children with relative GH deficiency with means of 0.26 ± 0.03 and 0.48 ± 0.04 U/ml, respectively.

Serum somatomedin A levels in 42 growth retarded children with normal growth hormone levels were within the range of normal adults, and did not correlate with degree of short stature.

Significant increases of somatomedin A after hGH administration were found in children with growth hormone deficiency but not in children with normal growth hormone.

These results show that determination of somatomedin A in serum correlates well with the state of growth hormone secretion, and is of great importance in the selection of patients for treatment with human growth hormone.
SHORT-TERM EFFECT OF ACETYLSALICYLIC ACID ANALOGUE ON PITUITARY-THYROID AXIS AND PLASMA CORTISOL LEVEL IN HEALTHY HUMAN VOLUNTEERS
Authors: Langer Pavel , Földes Ondrej , Michajlovskij Nikolaj , Ježová Daniela , Klimeš Iwar , Michalko Jozef , Závada Milan
Published: December 2008

The effect of acetylsalicylic acid analogue (aloxiprinum; Superpyrin® Spofa) administered perorally in a daily dose of 1 g per 10 kg body weight on serum levels of free thyroxine (FT4), total thyroxine (T4), triiodothyronine (T3), cortisol (F) and thyrotrophin (TSH) was studied in healthy human volunteers. In a first experiment the drug was administered for 3 days to 7 subjects, the total daily dose being divided into 4–5 aliquots, while the same total dose was administered within 4 h to another 8 subjects in a second experiment. In both experiments a highly significant increase of FT4 was found during the period of treatment, while the levels of other hormones i. e. (T3, T4, F and TSH) were decreased, in most cases significantly. After the withdrawal of the drug there was not only a return of all levels to the initial value, but in most cases an "overshoot" above this value was detected.
DIURNAL VARIATION IN PLASMA CORTISOL AND PROLACTIN IN PATIENTS WITH CUSHING'S SYNDROME
Authors: Hagen Claus , Kehlet Henrik , Binder Christian
Published: December 2008

To evaluate the relationship between plasma prolactin and cortisol in patients with Cushing's syndrome, the 24 h pattern of these hormones was measured in normal subjects and in 5 patients with pituitary dependent Cushing's syndrome and 2 patients with Cushing's syndrome due to an adrenocortical adenoma and ectopic secretion of ACTH.

The normal subjects showed an increase in plasma prolactin during late sleep without correlation (P > 0.05) to changes in plasma cortisol. All patients had normal basal levels (between 10 a. m. and 12 p. m.) of plasma prolactin. Four of 5 patients with pituitary dependent Cushing's syndrome had an absent diurnal rhythm of plasma prolactin. One patient classified as pituitary dependent Cushing's syndrome on the basis of adrenal pathology, but pituitary independent on the basis of the dexamethasone suppression test had a normal circadian rhythm of plasma prolactin suggesting that the disease is not pituitary dependent at this stage. Two patients with pituitary independent Cushing's syndrome, one with adrenocortical adenoma and one with an oat cell carcinoma of the lung and the ectopic ACTH syndrome and very elevated plasma cortisol levels showed a normal and an absent diurnal rhythm of prolactin, respectively.
EFFECTS OF PROLACTIN ON PITUITARY-ADRENAL FUNCTION IN INTACT AND OVARIECTOMIZED RATS
Authors: Vasquez Silvia B. , Kitay Julian I.
Published: December 2008

The influence of prolactin treatment (100 μg/100 g body wt. sc daily for 7 days) on plasma corticosterone levels, adrenal steroid production in vitro and in vivo and pituitary-adrenal responses to stress were studied in intact and castrated female rats. Prolactin enhanced plasma corticosterone levels and corticosterone production in vitro and in vivo in intact rats after stress. Differences were abolished with ACTH treatment. In contrast, prolactin administration to ovariectomized rats inhibited plasma corticosterone response to stress. Combined treatment with ACTH reversed these findings. A greater in vitro production of corticosterone by adrenal slices and adrenal homogenates associated with an effective inhibition of adrenal 5α-reductase activity were also observed. Secretion of DHB in adrenal venous blood was decreased as well, without changes in corticosterone or THB secretion rates. However, combined treatment with prolactin and ACTH produced greater increments in secretion rates of corticosterone than those obtained with prolactin alone. The data suggest that prolactin treatment to ovariectomized rats has a dual effect: a) adrenal responsiveness to ACTH is enhanced by its effects on adrenal 5α-reductase activity, and b) pituitary-adrenal response to stress is dampered by prolactin treatment. The effects of prolactin on adrenal 5α-reductase activity and corticosterone production in vitro were paralleled in vivo only after the exogenous administration of ACTH. The presence of the gonads apparently prevented the inhibitory effect of prolactin on ACTH secretion and in turn seemed to act synergistically with prolactin to facilitate pituitary-adrenal response to stress.
PLASMA LEVELS OF TESTOSTERONE IN BULLS
Authors: Sundby Anne , Torjesen P. A.
Published: December 2008

Administration of 6000 IU HCG to 4 bulls was followed by an elevation of plasma testosterone lasting for 9–13 days. When HCG administration was repeated, the testosterone response was shortened to 4–6 days in 3 bulls due to the formation of antibodies against HCG. The appearance of HCG antibodies coincided with a sharp decrease in the plasma testosterone level, indicating that Leydig cells have to be under continuous HCG stimulation to maintain increased testosterone production. No antibody against bovine LH was detected in the plasma samples containing antibodies against HCG. In one bull the response following the second HCG injection was similar to the plasma testosterone pattern following the first. No antibodies against HCG were found in this bull.

Five bulls received 750 IU HCG twice. Following the period with elevated plasma testosterone levels, subnormal levels were observed after both injections. One injection led to decreased levels without development of antibodies against HCG while the second HCG injection led to subnormal testosterone levels concomitant with measurable antibodies against HCG.
PLASMA TESTOSTERONE IN BULLS
Authors: Sundby Anne , Farahat A.
Published: December 2008

Injections of 375–6000 IU HCG to 10 bulls, 7 months of age, gave no dose related response in plasma testosterone measured in samples collected during the following 9 h.

However, an increase in the dose of HCG was followed by 1) an increase in maximal testosterone values (r = + 0.9), 2) an extension of the period between injection and maximal value, and 3) an increased duration of the response.

Single iv or im injections of 6000 IU PMSG to 4 bulls led to initial elevations of plasma testosterone to about the spontaneous diurnal maxima, followed by a prolonged additional elevation to approximately 2 to 3 times this level. Values decreased to pre-treatment levels on days 16–18 following im injection and 20–22 days following iv injection.

In dose-response studies 750–12 000 IU PMSG gave similar response in plasma testosterone measured in samples collected 4 and 5 h after the injection, while a dose-dependent response in plasma testosterone was found with regard to maximal values as well as duration of the effect. When comparing the plasma testosterone response following the two gonadotrophins some differences were found. Injections of 6000 IU of the two gonadotrophins showed that PMSG required longer time to cause any effect upon plasma testosterone than HCG. A dose of 375 IU HCG was sufficient to evoke a prolonged effect while 750 IU PMSG was not. However, when a sufficient PMSG dose to evoke a prolonged effect was used, the duration of the effect was markedly longer after PMSG administration than after a similar HCG-dose.
EFFECT OF NOREPINEPHRINE SYNTHESIS INHIBITORS AND A DOPAMINE AGONIST ON HYPOTHALAMIC LH-RH, SERUM GONADOTROPHIN AND PROLACTIN LEVELS IN GONADAL STEROID TREATED RATS
Authors: Kalra Satya P. , Kalra Pushpa S. , Chen C. L. , Clemens James A.
Published: December 2008

The relationship between the medial basal hypothalamus (MBH) LH-RH activity and LH release was studied following progesterone (P) treatment of oestrogen-primed ovariectomized rats (day 0). Following P administration at 10.00 h (day 2) serum LH levels increased rapidly after 13.00 h to peak levels attained at 15.00 h and maintained until 18.00 h. Coincident with the onset of augmented release and peak serum LH concentrations at 15.00 h there was a significant enhancement in the MBH LH-RH activity. Thereafter, the MBH LH-RH stores promptly fell and remained at morning low levels through the rest of the LH surge period. P treatment also stimulated release of FSH and prolactin in the afternoon. Administration of norepinephrine (NE) synthesis inhibitors, diethyldithiocarbamate (DDC) and U-14,624 before P blocked the afternoon increments in serum gonadotrophins and the MBH LH-RH levels; prolactin release was also suppressed in DDC treated rats. In contrast, lergotrile mesylate (dopamine agonist) treatment prior to P administration suppressed only the afternoon increase in prolactin release. These studies show that (1) P can stimulate MBH LH-RH activity in oestrogen-primed rats and these effects are transmitted to the LH-RH peptidergic neurons via NE synapses in the preoptic area and (2) a common central NE system may mediate the stimulatory feedback effects of P on gonadotrophin and prolactin release.
CHANGES IN RAT HYPOTHALAMIC CONTENT OF CORTICOTROPHIN-RELEASING FACTOR (CRF) ACTIVITY, PLASMA ACTH AND CORTICOSTERONE UNDER STRESS AND THE EFFECT OF CYCLOHEXIMIDE
Authors: Fujieda Kenji , Hiroshige Tsutomu
Published: December 2008

The changes in the hypothalamic content of corticotrophin-releasing factor (CRF), the plasma concentrations of ACTH and corticosterone were studied in the intact male rat. CRF activity was estimated by bioassay and plasma ACTH levels by radioimmunoassay. The variation in CRF hypothalamic content reflected CRF secretion since plasma ACTH and corticosterone increased concomitantly. The activity of CRF separated into 2 peaks, one occurring immediately (2 min) and a second about 80 min later after the start of stress. The elevation of plasma ACTH and corticosterone followed the first CRF activity peak, and both showed a sustained time course. Cycloheximide pre-treatment (1 mg/100 g ip) was used to test whether protein synthesis was required for secretion of CRF. Treatment with cycloheximide reduced the incorporation of [14C]L-alanine into hypothalamic and pituitary proteins. The second CRF activity peak was completely abolished while the first activity peak was essentially intact. Plasma ACTH increased in response to the first CRF activity peak, but then declined. Plasma corticosterone remained low throughout, possibly as a consequence of inhibition of adrenal protein synthesis. When a second stress stimulus (fracturing of one leg without anaesthesia) was superimposed, CRF activity and plasma ACTH did not show any incremental response. These results show that the second CRF activity peak is sensitive to cycloheximide inhibition of protein synthesis, while the first activity peak appears to be cycloheximide resistant.
PITUITARY AND OVARIAN HORMONAL RESPONSE TO 48 h GONADOTROPHIN RELEASING HORRMONE (GnRH) INFUSIONS IN FEMALE RHESUS MONKEYS
Authors: Ferin M. , Bogumil J. , Drewes J. , Dyrenfurth I. , Jewelewicz R. , Wiele R. L. Vande
Published: December 2008

The effects of prolonged gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) infusions on LH, FSH, oestrogens and progesterone secretion were studied in female rhesus monkeys at various times of the menstrual cycle and after castration. GnRH was infused at the rate of 15 μg/h for 48 h. This resulted in mean peripheral GnRH levels of 398 ± 31.5 pg/ml (± se) as measured by radioimmunoassay.

As expected the pattern of gonadotrophin responses to GnRH varied considerably with the phase of the menstrual cycle. The largest LH increase was seen during the late follicular phase (6-fold over baseline), with a 3-fold increase during the luteal phase and a 2-fold one during the early follicular phase and in the period following the LH surge. Significant FSH increases (4-fold) were seen only during the follicular phase. Oestrogens increased about 2-fold within 4 h of the start of the infusion during the early follicular phase. In the late follicular phase and during the LH surge, they declined within 24 and 1 h, respectively. Large progesterone increases were seen only during the luteal phase.

Of special interest is the fact that the increase in gonadotrophin secretion could not be maintained for the entire duration of the experiment even though GnRH continued to be infused at rates sufficient to elicit initial increases of several fold over baseline. Gonadotrophin release declined 4–28 h after the initial stimulation. A further decrease below pre-infusion control levels was particularly evident during the midcycle surge and, for FSH, after ovariectomy. These results indicate that a continuous mode of administration may rapidly induce a desensitization phenomenon at the level of the gonadotroph.
A HETEROLOGOUS RADIOIMMUNOASSAY FOR AVIAN PROLACTIN: APPLICATION TO THE MEASUREMENT OF PROLACTIN IN THE TURKEY
Authors: McNeilly A. S. , Etches R. J. , Friesen H. G.
Published: December 2008

A specific heterologous double-antibody radioimmunoassay has been developed to measure turkey prolactin (PRL) using a guinea pig antihPRL antiserum and 125I-labelled ovine PRL [125I]oPRL. Turkey pituitary prolactin and serum give parallel dose-response curves and no cross-reaction is seen with turkey growth hormone, LH or FSH, or mammalian LH, FSH, TSH, GH or placental lactogens. The RIA is accurate and precise and is sufficiently sensitive to measure PRL in all physiological situations investigated in the turkey. The RIA will measure PRL in several avian species including the chicken, duck, goose, pheasant, pheasant × chicken F1 hybrid, pigeon, quail and rook.

Plasma PRL concentrations in laying and broody turkey hens were not significantly different (46.5 ± 2.5 vs. 39.7 ± 3.8 ng/ml) but both were significantly higher (P < 0.001) than in non-laying turkey hens (4.6 ± 0.7 ng/ml).

Oestradiol injection into laying hens did not alter PRL levels while the same injection in non-laying hens caused a significant three-fold increase in plasma PRL levels.
EFFECT OF GLUCOCORTICOIDS ON PLASMA TESTOSTERONE IN MEN
Authors: Schaison G. , Durand F. , Mowszowicz I.
Published: December 2008

ACTH decreases plasma testosterone levels in men. The aim of this study was to assess the part played by the glucocorticoids in this effect, and the mechanism of their action. Plasma androstenedione, testosterone, cortisol and LH were measured in 8 normal men, before and after the following tests: ACTH stimulation (2 mg im), metyrapone administration (500 mg/every 4 h/6 times) and dexamethasone suppression (8 mg/day/3 days). In addition, androstenedione and testosterone were evaluated under human chorionic gonadotrophin (5000 IU HCG/day/3 days) before and after dexamethasone suppression (8 mg/day/6 days).

In all patients, ACTH decreased plasma testosterone from 5.87 ± 1.59 (sd) ng/ml to 3.06 ± 0.8 (sd) ng/ml (P < 0.001). In contrast, after metyrapone, the mean plasma testosterone was increased to 6.98 ± 1.75 (sd) ng/ml. This increase, though not statistically significant, was observed in all patients but one. Both tests resulted in a significant increase of plasma androstenedione (P < 0.01 and P < 0.001, respectively). Dexamethasone suppressed both testosterone and androstenedione levels. None of the three tests had a significant effect on the LH concentration. HCG injection increased the mean plasma testosterone to 11.46 ± 2.80 ng/ml. Dexamethasone significantly depressed (P < 0.01) the testosterone response to HCG.

These data are consistent with the following conclusions: 1) The decrease of plasma testosterone levels, observed in men after ACTH administration, is not observed after metyrapone induced ACTH increase. This confirms that it is related to cortisol levels rather than to ACTH itself. 2) Glucocorticoids act directly on testicular biosynthesis since they do not induce any change in LH secretion and since dexamethasone reduces testosterone response to HCG.
EFFECTS OF HUMAN CHORIONIC GONADOTROPHIN ON THE RELEASE OF CYCLIC AMP AND PROGESTERONE FROM THE SHEEP OVARY AT DIFFERENT STAGES OF THE OESTROUS CYCLE
Authors: Weiss T. J. , Janson P. O. , Porter K. J. , Seamark R. F.
Published: December 2008

The rate of release of cyclic AMP by sheep ovaries containing a corpus luteum was determined at different stages of the cycle before and up to 60 min after an intra-arterial (ia) injection of 500 IU human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG). The median cyclic AMP concentration in arterial plasma and of ovarian venous plasma following hCG stimulation was 93.2 and 98.0 pmol/ml, respectively. The ovaries of ewes examined at Days 1 and 2 of the cycle showed no response to hCG, whereas in 2 sheep at Day 3, hCG caused a slight response, and in 13 sheep examined between Days 5–18, hCG caused a marked increase in cAMP release. In 5 of the sheep in which both ovarian veins were cannulated, only the ovary with a corpus luteum responded to hCG with an increased secretion rate of cyclic AMP and progesterone. The results indicate a lack of responsiveness in the newly formed corpus luteum to hCG.
CYCLIC AMP AND CYCLIC GMP ACCUMULATION BY ISOLATED HAMSTER GRANULOSA CELLS STIMULATED BY LH AND FSH
Authors: Makris Anastasia , Ryan Kenneth J.
Published: December 2008

Cyclic AMP and cyclic GMP accumulation in hamster granulosa cells as a function of gonadotrophin dose (LH or FSH) and time (0–30 min) was determined. The pattern of acute cyclic AMP accumulation was similar in LH and FSH stimulated granulosa cells, except that the cells were more sensitive to FSH than LH. There was a positive dose response relationship of cyclic AMP accumulation in LH and FSH stimulated cells. LH appeared to partially inhibit FSH stimulated cyclic AMP synthesis. Cyclic GMP accumulation was distinctly different in LH and FSH stimulated cells. An inverse dose response relationship of cyclic GMP to dose LH was observed, with only the lowest dose of LH (0.005 IU/ml) stimulating cyclic GMP synthesis. FSH at 0.005 IU/ml did not stimulate cyclic GMP synthesis, but at higher doses generated cyclic GMP in a positive dose-related manner. The results suggest that specificity of hormone action in granulosa cells may be governed in part by differential on cyclic AMP and cyclic GMP in these cells.
HUMORAL CONTROL OF APPETITE: A URINARY ANOREXIGENIC PEPTIDE. CHROMATOGRAPHIC PATTERNS OF URINARY PEPTIDES IN ANOREXIA NERVOSA
Authors: Trygstad Olav , Foss Irene , Edminson Paul D. , Johansen John H. , Reichelt Karl L.
Published: December 2008

ABSTRACTS

A "family" of peptides which produced metabolic or behavioural effects following injections into mice or rabbits had been isolated from the urine from patients with the hypothalamic syndrome congenital, generalized lipodystrophy. Anorexia nervosa is associated with hypothalamic disturbances. Precipitates from urine specimens from 25 patients diagnosed as anorexia nervosa were chromatographed on Sephadex G-25 gel columns, and could be divided into 4 different patterns: One was similar to that for normal controls (4), one similar to that observed for patients with schizophrenia (6), 5 patients with a hysteriform type of neurosis had a third form of pattern, and 10 girls considered to have a primary "hypothalamic" type of anorexia nervosa also had typical chromatograms. Fractions influencing appetite in mice were found in the latter group, only. Two peptides influencing appetite were purified through several steps of chromatography. The sequence of the anorexigenic peptide was verified by the synthesis of the tripeptide, pyroGlu-His-GlyOH. A total dose of 12 nmole of this peptide injected daily over 20 days induced food refusal in mice with reduction of food consumption from 5.7 to about 3 g per day, and the mean body weight decreased from 35 to a minimum of 24.1 g. Food consumption did not normalize until 6 months later, at the same time body weights increased to the same level as in the controls. An appetite stimulating peptide increased the daily consumption of food to more than 10 g, and the mean body weight increased to 57.2 g. We provide evidence for the existence of a hypothalamic form of anorexia nervosa, and that the appetite may be regulated by humoral factors. Screening of peptides present in the urine from patients with anorexia nervosa may give diagnostic and therapeutic information.
THE EFFECT OF LH-RH INFUSION ON SERUM LH, FSH AND TESTOSTERONE IN BOYS WITH ADVANCED PUBERTY, DELAYED PUBERTY AND HYPOGONADOTROPHIC HYPOGONADISM
Authors: de Lange W. E. , Snoep M. C. , Doorenbos H.
Published: December 2008

LH-RH injection and infusion studies were performed in advanced puberty, delayed puberty and hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism. No differential diagnosis could be made between delayed puberty and hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism using LH-RH injection. In the LH-RH infusion studies evidence was obtained that stimulation of the pituitary during 4 h results in continuously rising LH levels in advanced puberty and in delayed puberty while in hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism the secretory capacity of the pituitary is gradually exhausted. This phenomenon can be used in the differential diagnosis between delayed puberty and hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism. Though the FSH data point in the same direction they are not useful in this connection as the overlap between the different categories was considerable.
EFFECT OF PYRIDOXINE ON PLASMA LEVELS OF HGH, PRL, AND TSH IN NORMAL WOMEN
Authors: Peters F. , Zimmermann G. , Breckwoldt M.
Published: December 2008

The effect of chronic administration of pyridoxine (vitamin B6) on HGH, basal and TRH stimulated PRL and TSH levels was studied in seven healthy female volunteers. HGH and TSH basal levels remained unaffected. Basal PRL and TRH stimulated PRL and TSH levels were slightly reduced without statistical significance (P > 0.05). The results indicate, that stimulation of the hypothalamic dopaminergic pathway by pyridoxine is highly variable and unpredictable. Therefore it seems meaningless to recommend vitamin B6 for the treatment of hyperprolactinaemia.
THE EFFECT OF A SLIGHTLY ACIDIC SOMATOMEDIN PEPTIDE (ILAs) ON THE SULPHATION OF PROTEOGLYCANS FROM ARTICULAR AND GROWTH PLATE CHONDROCYTES IN CULTURE
Authors: Corvol Marie-Thérèse , Dumontier Marie-France , Rappaport Raphael , Guyda Harvey , Posner Barry I.
Published: December 2008

Chondrocyte cultures were prepared from rabbit growth plate (GPC) and articular (ARC) chondrocytes. These two cell types have distinct morphological characteristics. The cells reached maximum numbers by days 10 and 21 for ARC and GPC, respectively. The proteoglycans (PG) contained in the cellular pool were extracted and purified by DEAE cellulose chromatography. The effect of a partially purified somatomedin peptide with insulin-like activity on [35S] sulphate incorporation into PG was evaluated. In both ARC and GPC a significant stimulation of [35S]sulphate uptake into PG subunits was obtained with 1 ng Eq./ml of somatomedin peptide. In order to obtain the same stimulatory effect with porcine insulin, a 1000-fold greater concentration was required. The electrophoretic patterns of the PG subunits on acrylamide-agarose electrophoresis were identical on control incubations and after stimulation with the somatomedin peptide. These data demonstrate in vitro biological activity of this peptide on well differentiated articular and epiphyseal growth plate chondrocytes in culture. These cultures appear to provide a sensitive biological assay for somatomedin peptides.
ASSESSMENT OF PLACENTAL FUNCTION IN UNCOMPLICATED AND COMPLICATED LATE PREGNANCY BY ESTIMATION OF UNCONJUGATED OESTROGENS IN PLASMA AFTER AN INTRAVENOUS INJECTION OF DEHYDROEPIANDROSTERONE SULPHATE
Authors: Axelsson O. , Nilsson B. A. , Johansson E. D. B.
Published: December 2008

An intravenous injection of 50 mg dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHAS) was given to 60 women in late pregnancy. Following the injection, the plasma concentration of unconjugated oestradiol, oestrone and oestriol was measured at intervals. Radioimmunoassays were used for the estimation of the plasma oestrogens. In women with uncomplicated pregnancies a rapid and pronounced rise was found for plasma oestradiol. No significant changes in the oestradiol response were observed with advancing gestational age from the 32nd to the 40th week of pregnancy. Patients with pre-eclampsia or intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) showed a lower increase and a later appearance of the peak value. The oestradiol response in diabetic women was similar to that in women with normal pregnancies. The concentration of plasma oestrone rose more slowly and to a minor degree than did oestradiol. No changes were found in the oestrone response with advancing gestational age. In women with preeclampsia and IUGR a lower increase and a later appearance of the maximum level was observed. The oestrone response in diabetic women was indistinguishable from that in women with normal pregnancies. No changes could be detected in the plasma concentration of unconjugated oestriol after the DHAS injection. It is concluded that the great spread in the oestrogenic response limits the clinical usefulness for assessing placental function. However, in women with low basal values of oestriol in urine or plasma the test may be helpful for diagnosing placental insufficiency.
OESTROGEN INDUCED LEYDIG CELL REFRACTORINESS TO GONADOTROPHIN STIMULATION
Authors: Saez J. M. , Haour F. , Loras B. , Sanchez P. , Cathiard A. M.
Published: December 2008

In vivo administration of oestradiol to male rats modifies plasma LH, FSH and testosterone levels, cAMP and testosterone production and DNA synthesis in isolated interstitial cells. Intramuscular injection of oestradiol benzoate (Oe2B) at the dose of 1 or 100 μg/day for 6 days induced a 5- and 10-fold decrease in plasma testosterone, respectively, and a 2-fold decrease in plasma LH and FSH. Plasma testosterone was already significantly decreased 2 h after the Oe2B injection at which point the plasma LH and FSH levels were not yet significantly decreased. In vivo steroidogenic responsiveness to hCG evaluated by plasma and testicular contents was already significantly lower than that of controls 2 h following oestradiol administration. Thereafter response to hCG progressively decreased during the 6 days of 1 or 100 μg oestradiol treatment, reaching 30 and 10 %, respectively, of that of controls on the last day. On the contrary the testicular cAMP content 2 h after hCG injection was significantly higher in oestradiol treated animals than in controls after 24 h. The number of hCG binding sites in isolated Leydig cells decreased to approximately 50 % of that of controls on days 3 to 6 following Oe2B treatment. In vitro testosterone production by isolated interstitial cells, either under basal conditions or under stimulation by hCG or N6O2 dibutyryl adenosine 3′,5′-monophosphate (DbcAMP), was lowered as early as 2 h following the injection of Oe2B to the animals. From 1 to 6 days following Oe2B administration, testosterone secretion, in response to both stimuli, was approximately 4 times lower than that of the control animals. Paradoxically, by the second day of oestrogen treatment, basal and hCG induced in vitro cAMP production by interstitial cells was significantly higher than controls despite a significant decrease in the number of binding sites. The incorporation of thymidine into interstitial cells DNA were decreased following 2 days of oestrogen administration. However, the conversion of pregnenolone to testosterone was unchanged. These inhibitory effects of oestradiol were not overcome by simultaneous administration of hCG.

These results strongly suggest that the rapid inhibitory action of oestradiol on interstitial cell function, steroidogenesis, and DNA synthesis, occurs at the testicular level. Changes observed in gonadotrophin receptor sites or in plasma LH levels may have a long term effect on the steroidogenic refractoriness to hCG. However this refractoriness is primarily related to an abnormality of some step of steroidogenesis beyond cAMP formation.