bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fatty Acid Incorporation into Human Adipose Tissue in Hypertrigiyceridaemia*
Authors: Carlson L.A. , Walldius G.
Published: March 2008

The fatty acid and glucose incorporation into glycerides and glycerol release from adipose tissue were determined in a middle‐aged population of 109 men and 41 women. 43 men and 19 women were rrormolipidaemic. The same analysis was also carried out in 13 male and 9 female normolipidaemic students. Needle biopsy specimens of adipose tissue were incubated in vitro in an albumin medium containing 3H‐fatty acids and 14C‐glucose. After two hours of incubation values for fatty acid and glucose incorporation were calculated from the incorporation of 3H‐activity into the fatty acids and 14C‐activity into the glycerol moiety of extracted glycerides. The mean values for fatty acid incorporation were lower in all types of hypertriglyceridaemic subjects (II B, III, IV and V) than in the normolipidaemic control subjects. In the male hypertriglyceridaemic population 36 % had values for fatty acid incorporation below the 5th percentile of the normolipidaemic group and 14 % had values below the lowest normal value. The rate of fatty acid incorporation was negatively correlated with the serum triglyceride concentration. This correlation remained unchanged when partial correlation was performed when the influence of body weight was eliminated. Fatty acid and glucose incorporation correlated positively. Incorporation of glucose behaved in the same way as described above for incorporation of fatty acids. Glycerol and fatty acid release was the same in the normo‐ and hypertriglyceridaemic groups. It is likely that the removal of plasma triglycerides from blood requires hydrolysis of triglycerides to fatty acids and the subsequent removal of the fatty acids. The hypothesis has been formulated that when the former process is normal, a defect of fatty acid removal (a low rate of fatty acid incorporation into glycerides) may be responsible for an impaired removal of plasma triglyceride‐fatty acids. A low rate of fatty acid incorporation may contribute to the development of hypertrigiyceridaemia, according to this hypothesis.
Compensatory Mechanisms for the Severe Anaemia Caused by Haemoglobin Hammersmith
Authors: Gillies I. D. S. , White Y. S. , White J.M.
Published: March 2008

A severely anaemic, but asymptomatic patient, who is a heterozygous carrier of haemoglobin Hammersmith (β42 (CD1) phenylalanine ‐ Serine), has been studied to elucidate the mechanisms resulting in physiological compensation for the anaemia. Four factors have been investigated: the oxygen affinity of her blood, the cardiac output at rest and during exercise, the blood gas indices, and pulmonary funtion.

It was found that due to the presence of Heinz bodies within the erythrocytes, the level of functional, haemoglobin was considerably less (50 g/1) than that measured by standard methods (87 g/1). In addition a moderate degree of arterial hypoxaemia (arterial oxygen tension = 10.7 JcPa (80.4 mmHg)) was present which could not be explained on the basis of abnormal pulmonary function. Both of these factors would result in tissue hypoxia, but the finding of consistently normal oxygen tensions (‘mixed’ venous oxygen tension = 5.4 kPa (40.3 mmHg)) in blood obtained from the right atrium, suggested that hypoxia was not present. This was explained by a decreased whole blood oxygen affinity (P50 = 4.6 kPa (34.5 mmHg) at pH 7.4) and an increase in the cardiac index (5.3 L.min.‐1m‐2). The latter was the result of an increased stroke volume (125 ‐ 135 ml), the heart rate being normal (63/min.). During moderate exercise, further increases of cardiac output were brought about by a change in heart rate alone. It has been calculated that the decrease in whole blood oxygen per se could not account for adequate tissue oxygenation. This is confirmed by the finding of an increased cardiac output in this patient. It is suggested that in any severe haemolytic anaemia, even if the whole blood oxygen affinity is low, cardiac output is probably increased to achieve complete physiological compensation.
Partial Purification of Human Renin Substrate
Authors: Schiøler V. , Nielsen M. Damkjasr , Kappelgaard A. M. , Giese J.
Published: March 2008

A two‐step purification method is described for the preparation of renin substrate from human plasma. Pooled plasma from women on oral contraceptives is used for the purification. The overall yield of renin substrate is 57%, with a twenty‐fold purification. The specific renin substrate content of the preparation, as determined by enzymatic degradation with an excess of human renin, is 2 μg angiotensin I per mg protein. The product has a very low endogenous renin activity and is free from angiotensinase activity. An additional purification step involving affinity chromatography is described. In pilot studies a renin substrate yield of 37% has been achieved, with a hundred‐fold purification. The final product has a specific renin substrate content of 10 μg angiotensin I per mg protein. The preparation contains up to 12 different plasma proteins, nine of which have been identified and guantitated.
Effects of Intravenous Phospholipid on Low Density Lipoprotein Turnover in Man*
Authors: Thompson G. R. , Jadhav A. , Nava M. , Gotto A.M.
Published: March 2008

The mechanism of the rise in plasma low density lipoprotein (LDL) levels following intravenous administration of a triglyceride‐phospholipid emulsion (Intralipid) has been investigated by measuring LDL turnover in eight healthy subjects. The plasma half‐life, and the absolute and fractional catabolic rates of LDL protein (apo‐LDL) were unaffected by intragastric Intralipid, whereas apo‐LDL half‐life was prolonged and its fractional catabolic rate was decreased by intravenous Intralipid. Similar changes were observed after intravenous administration of the egg phospholipid constituent of Intralipid. Accompanying increases in the oleate: linoleate ratio of both high and low density lipoprotein cholesterol esters were secondary to phospholipid exchange between infused and endogenous lecithin. These results suggest that the increased concentration of LDL in plasma following intravenous administration of egg phospholipid‐containing emulsions was due, at least in part, to a decrease in the fractional catabolic rate of apo‐LDL. The data further suggest a possible relationship between apo‐LDL catabolism and the fatty acid composition of LDL.
Luteinizing Hormone and Follicle Stimulating Hormone and the Response to Luteinizing Hormone Releasing Hormone >in Relation to Sex and Age
Authors: Lindholm J. , Korsgaard O. , Rasmussen P. , Micic S.
Published: March 2008

Serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) before and after intravenous injection of luteinizing hormone releasing hormone (LHRH) were studied in 71 male and female subjects of various ages. Mean basal FSH and LH levels were not significantly different in the male groups, except that FSH was significantly higher in the very old subjects. Postmenopausal female subjects had much higher concentrations of both hormones than had premenopausal women. LH was higher in female subjects shortly after the menopause than in very old female subjects. The serum concentrations of both FSH and LH 30 min. after intravenous injection of 200 yg LHRH were not different from the 60 min. values. There was no significant difference in the response of LH in the male groups. The peak FSH concentration was higher in the very old male subjects. Postmenopausal women had a much higher peak concentration of both FSH and LH than had younger subjects. The increment of LH, but not of FSH, was larger in female subjects shortly after the menopause than in very old female subjects. In both sexes there was a significant correlation between the basal FSH/LH ratio and age. In younger male subjects there was a close positive correlation between basal LH and serum testosterone, in older male subjects this correlation was negative and significant.
The Effect of Generalized Hypoxia upon Flow and Composition of Cardiac Lymph in the Dog
Authors: Fjeld N. B. , Kluge T. H. , Stokke K.T. , Skrede S.
Published: March 2008

Generalized hypoxia lasting 60 seconds more than doubled the cardiac lymph flow in dogs. The number of erythrocytes per mm3 of cardiac lymph increased by about 300 %. However, there was no change in total protein or in the concentrations of different lipids following hypoxia. Thus, the transfer of erythrocytes across the myocardial inter‐stitium increased by a factor of ten, and proteins and lipids by 150 %. An increase of the capillary surface area probably explained the increased lymph flow. Permeability for macromolecules through the endothelial cells was not increased, since the selectivity for different lipids did not change. The increased transfer of erythrocytes may be explained by an increased permeability through intercellular junctions.

The triglyceride content of thoracic duct lymph decreased by about 60 % in the corresponding period, but no changes in flow or permeability were observed.
Activity of Erythropoietin and Renin in Renal Venous Blood of Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Takács L. , Albert K. , Vajda V.
Published: March 2008

Plasma activities of renin and erythropoietin were determined in the renal veins of the right and left kidneys of hypertensive patients. The patients were divided into the following groups either according to the origin of the hypertension (group 1: control or essential hypertension, group 2: renovascular hypertension) or according to the hormone levels (group 3: renin activity exceeding 10 ng/litre in at least one of the renal veins and group 4: erythropoietin activity higher than 4% 5 9Fe incorporation in at least one of the renal veins).

In groups 1, 2 and 3 a statistically significant difference in renin activity was found between the kidney with the higher renin activity and that with the lower activity However, in group 4, the side, which showed elevated erythropoietin values also had higher renin activity as compared to the essential hypertensive group.

Erythropoietin activity probably does not parallel the increased renin activity found in renovascular hypertension or in some cases of non‐renovascular hypertension. However, in several cases of renal vascular alterations, both systems can be activated simultaneously.
Turnover of Plasma Cholesteryl Esters and its Relationship to Other Parameters of Lipid Metabolism in Man1
Authors: Kudchodkar B. J. , Sodhi Harbhajan S.
Published: March 2008

Studies on plasma cholesteryl esters were made in 32 normal and hyperlipidaemic subjects in an attempt to elucidate further the metabolic relationships between cholesterol and other plasma lipids and lipoproteins. Fractional and net turnover rates of plasma cholesteryl esters were measured using two independent (in vivo and in vitro) methods, both of which determined the prevailing activity of plasma lecithin: cholesterol acyltransferase in the ambiance of the patients own plasma. The results obtained by the two methods were in excellent agreement.

The turnover rates of plasma cholesteryl esters in hypertriglyceridaemic patients were significantly greater than in patients with only hypercholesterolaemia and in those with normal plasma lipids. In agreement with these observations, the esterified to free cholesterol ratios in hypertriglyceridaemic patients were significantly greater than in those with normal plasma triglycerides. Patients who had only hypercholesterolaemia had normal esterified to free cholesterol ratios.

The rates of esterification of plasma free cholesterol correlated well with triglyceride concentrations as well as with the net turnover of plasma triglycerides and also with the turnover or synthesis of endogenous cholesterol. Since the turnover of plasma triglycerides in most patients with modest to moderate hypertriglyceridaemia reflects the turnover of their plasma very low density lipoproteins, it is suggested that it is the turnover of these lipoproteins which correlates with the hepatic synthesis of cholesterol and with the esterification of plasma cholesteryl esters.
Electron Microscopic Characterization of Lipoproteins from Patients with Familial Type III Hyperlipoproteinaemia
Authors: Patsch J. R. , Sailer S. , Braunsteiner H. , Forte T.
Published: March 2008

The lipoproteins of very low density, low density and intermediate density were isolated by zonal ultracentrifugation from the plasma of subjects with familial type III hyperlipoproteinaemia and studied by electron microscopy. Each of these lipoproteins exhibited a spherical shape when free‐standing. The very low density, low density and intermediate density lipoproteins ranged in diameter from 31 ‐ 80, 17 ‐ 23, and 21 ‐ 35 nm, respectively. These results are consistent with, our previous findings that the intermediate density lipoprotein particles characteristic of plasma from type III subjects exhibit properties which are intermediate between those of very low density and low density lipoproteins.
Studies on the Mitogenic Activity of Trypsin, Pronase and Neuraminidase on Human Peripheral Blood Lymphocytes
Authors: Girard J. P. , Fernandes B.
Published: March 2008

Human peripheral blood lymphocytes were cultured in the presence of protease (trypsin and pronase) and Vibrio choleraeneuraminidase. T and B lymphocyte populations were separated and the effect of these enzymes plus phytohaemagglutin or Tuberculin was studied.

The results of these experiments show that proteases moderately stimulate spontaneous deoxynucleic acid synthesis of control cells and potentiate the effect of tuberculin on sensitized cells. These enzymes act specifically on B lymphocytes.

Neuraminidase also increases spontaneous deoxyribonucleic acid synthesis of control cells and augments significantly the in vitro response to PPD. There is no additive effect of neuraminidase on phytohaemagglutin stimulated cells. Neuraminidase seems to stimulate specifically T lymphocytes.

Some possible mechanisms of action of these enzymes are proposed and discussed.
Peptide‐Bound Hydroxylysine and Large Polypeptides related to Collagen Synthesis
Authors: Askenasi R. , Rao V.H. , Devos A.
Published: March 2008

About 10% of the urinary hydroxylysine is linked to peptides. There is no significant difference between the excretion of peptide‐bound hydroxylysine and hydroxylysine measured in the non‐dialysable fraction of the urine. Non‐dialysable hydroxylysine is highly glycosylated and contains mainly glucosyl‐galactosyl‐hydroxylysine. It is concluded that the urinary peptide‐bound hydroxylysine is present in the non‐dialysable collagen polypeptides. Their unusual carbohydrate composition is discussed.
Kinetics of Insulin Secretion in Chronic Pancreatitis and Mild Maturity Onset Diabetes (Evidence for “Gut Hormone” Action Beyond Glucoreceptor and Cyclic Adenosine Monophosphate Mediated Insulin Release)
Authors: Botha J. L. , Vinik A. I. , Blake K.C.H. , Jackson W.P.U.
Published: March 2008

We studied insulin responses to glucose with and without cholecystokinin‐pancreozymin and aminophyllin infusions in normal, chronic pancreatitic and genetic (maturity‐onset) diabetic subjects. Glucose was given alone as separate 5 and 10 g boluses followed by infusion at 250 mg/min. and 500 mg/min., respectively. Chronic pancreatitis patients and genetic diabetic patients had decreased Imax values, indicating a decreased insulin reserve. Sensitivity to glucose was normal in pancreatitic subjects, but the diabetic subjects had a raised G50 value, compatible with glucoreceptor dysfunction. Infusions of aminophyllin enhanced insulin responses (Imax) to glucose injection in normal subjects and to a lesser degree in pancreatitic subjects, but decreased sensitivity to glucose (increase in G50) in both groups. Although the Imax value in pancreatitic subjects was significantly lower than in the control subjects during the glucose plus aminophyllin infusion, the blood glucose concentration in the pancreatitic subjects was nonetheless decreased. This suggests that pancreatitic subjects have increased endogenous insulin sensitivity. Aminophyllin had no effect in diabetic subjects. Crude cholecystokinin‐pancreozymin changed the shape of the glucose/insulin dose response curve in normal, pancreatitic and diabetic subjects. These findings further suggest that the defect in insulin secretion in pancreatitic subjects is partly situated at the cyclic adenosine monophosphate stage of insulin release. Crude cholecystokin‐pan‐creozymin seems to affect insulin release at a point beyond the cyclic adenosine monophosphate stage.
Effect of Lead on Hepatic δ‐Aminolaevulinic Acid Synthetase Activity in the Rat: A Model for Drug Sensitivity in Intermittent Acute Porphyria*
Authors: Maxwell J. D. , Meyer U. A.
Published: March 2008

The hereditary hepatic porphyrias are disorders of porphyrin and haem synthesis characterized by a marked idiosyncrasy towards a variety of lipid soluble drugs. Most of these agents are inducers of the haemoprotein cytochrome P 450, the terminal oxidase in drug metabolism.

The primary genetic defect in intermittent acute porphyria is a partial deficiency of uroporphyrinogen I synthetase, which may result in a secondary derepression of 6‐aminoaevulinic acid synthetase, the rate‐limiting enzyme in the haem pathway. Analogous defects at more distant sites may explain the other hereditary hepatic porphyrias.

As drug sensitivity may be related to the defect in haem synthesis, we investigated the effects of experimental partial blocks in haem synthesis produced by lead in rats. Drug effects on δ‐aminolaevulinic acid synthetase, cytochrome P 450, and drug metabolism were studied. Our findings indicate: a) While partial impairment of haem biosynthesis has only minor effects on 6‐aminolaevulinic acid synthetase activity, it greatly enhances the sensitivity of 6‐aminolaevulinic acid synthetase to induction by drugs and steroids, which when given alone, have little or no inducing effect on the enzyme. b) The experimental partial block in haem synthesis delays and impairs drug‐mediated induction cytochrome P450 and drug metabolism in vitro.

The findings may explain why a large number of structurally unrelated compounds with little effect on normal liver can precipitate “acute porphyria”.
Plasma Renin Activity in Diabetic Autonomic Neuropathy
Authors: Campbell I. W. , Ewing D. J. , Anderton J. L. , Thompson J. H. , Horn D. B. , Clarke B. F.
Published: March 2008

Postural changes in plasma renin activity were studied in three groups of age and duration‐matched male diabetics (potent, impotent and with postural hypotension) and in non‐diabetic control subjects. Those diabetic subjects with postural hypotension due to automatic neuropathy had no increase in plasma renin activity to the erect posture whereas both the potent and impotent groups had similar plasma renin activity responses to the control subjects. There was a significant inverse correlation between the rise in plasma renin activity on standing and the postural drop in blood pressure (r = 0. 476, P < 0.01) but no correlation with other tests of autonomic reflex function such as the Valsalva manoeuvre and blood pressure response to sustained handgrip. The results suggested that the lesion responsible for the postural hypotension is in the efferent sympathetic pathway. However, neuropathy per se did not wholly explain the decreased postural plasma renin activity response. Diabetic nephropathy, with involvement of cells of juxtaglomerular apparatus, may also be implicated.
Plasma and Brain Amino Acids in Fulminant Hepatic Failure and their Relationship to Hepatic Encephalopathy
Authors: Record C. O. , Buxton B. , Chase R. A. , Curzon G. , Murray‐Lyon I. M. , Williams R.
Published: March 2008

Amino acid concentrations were determined in plasma, whole blood, cerebrospinal fluid and brain tissue of 45 patients with grade 3 or 4 coma due to fulminant hepatic failure. The concentration of 15 of the 19 amino acids determined were significantly increased in blood and the, increases were greatest for the amino acids concerned with neurotransmitter metabolism. There was no correlation, however, between the plasma concentration of these amino acids and changes in the grade of hepatic coma. The plasma concentrations of the branched chain amino acids were normal except in those patients who subsequently recovered in whom levels were slightly decreased.

Phenylalanine, tyrosine and methionine were among the 15 out of 18 amino acids which were significantly increased in cerebrospinal fluid and among the 15 out of 21 amino acids which were significantly increased in the brain. The increase in tryptophan was associated with a significant elevation in brain 5‐hyroxyindoleacetic acid concentration suggesting an increase in 5‐hydroxytryptamine turnover in hepatic coma.

Brain to plasma ratios of most amino acids in hepatic coma patients were similar to control subjects suggesting that plasma concentration is the main factor controlling the cerebral concentration. However, for the branched chain amino acids, cerebrospinal fluid and brain concentrations were increased when plasma concentrations were normal suggesting an increase in brain uptake.
Plasma and Urinary Dopamine: Studies During Fasting and Exercise and in Tetraplegic Man
Authors: Christensen N. J. , Mathias C. J. , Frankel H. L.
Published: March 2008

Dopamine, noradrenaline and adrenaline were measured in plasma and in urine, using double‐isotope derivative techniques, in 46 normal subjects and in 17 tetraplegic patients with physiologically complete cervical spinal cord transections above the sympathetic outflow.

Dopamine was present in plasma in normal subjects in a concentration of 0.33 μg/1 ± 0.06 (SEM). Twenty‐four hour urinary excretion of dopamine averaged 248 yg ± 22. There was a significant correlation between the 24 h urinary excretion of dopamine and of noradrenaline.

In the normal subjects plasma dopamine and the urinary excretion of dopamine did not change during three days of fasting while urinary excretion of adrenaline increased twofold.

In the normal subjects exercise significantly increased plasma dopamine from 0.25 μg/1 to 0.43 μg/1, but significantly decreased the urinary excretion of dopamine. Exercise significantly increased the excretion of noradrenaline.

In the tetraplegic patients the plasma dopamine concentration and the urinary excretion of dopamine were lower but not significantly different from the corresponding values in the normal subjects. Plasma noradrenaline and the urinary excretion of noradrenaline and adrenaline were significantly lower in the tetraplegic patients.

It is concluded that dopamine is present in human plasma in concentrations similar to that of noradrenaline. Free dopamine in plasma and urine of normal subjects is not dependent on food intake. Urinary dopamine may be derived from circulating dopamine. Urinary dopamine does not necessarily appear to reflect changes in plasma dopamine. The relationship between plasma dopamine and changes in adrenergic nervous activity deserves further investigation.
Effect of the Female Sexual Cycle on the Activity of δ‐Aminolaevulinate Synthase in Rat Liver
Authors: Held H. , Przerwa M.
Published: March 2008

The activity of 6‐aminolaevulinate synthase was determined in the livers of fed female rats and was found to vary with the phase of their sexual cycle. The highest enzymic activity was obtained during preoestrus (38.0 ± 3.2 nmol δ‐aminolaevulinate.g liver.‐1 hour‐1), the lowest during dioestrus (17.4 ± 3.4 nmol δ‐aminolaevulinate.g liver.‐1 hour‐1). During oestrus and metoesturs the activity of the enzyme was intermediate. The oscillation of the enzymic activity might be significant in the occurence of the ovulocylic form of acute intermittent porphyria.
Kidney and Plasma Renin in Human Renovascular Hypertension
Authors: Weber P. C. , Bauer J. , Uhlich E. , Held E. , Schildberg F.
Published: March 2008

Renin activities were determined in plasma and in single, microdissected juxtaglomerular apparatus in 19 patients with unilateral renal artery stenosis. The mean juxtaglomerular apparatus renin concentration in the stenosed kidneys was 5.5 ± 1.2 (SEM) ug.1‐1. h‐1 which is about ten times that of the suppressed renin concentration in the contralateral kidneys (0.6 ± 0.05 μg.l‐1.h‐1). On the affected side a positive correlation was found between intrarenal and renal venous renin concentration (r = 0.93; p < 0.001). Both intrarenal and renal venous renin concentrations of the stenosed kidneys were positively correlated to renin secretion rates, as calculated from renin analysis in plasma from the vena cava and renal veins. No relationship could be demonstrated between intrarenal or renal venous renin concentration and the degree of blood pressure elevation or transstenotic pressure gradient. However, a positive correlation was evident between peripheral plasma renin activity and diastolic blood pre‐sure (r = 0.88; p < 0.001). Comparative enzyme kinetic analyses of renin from the juxtaglomerular apparatus and renal venous plasma were performed using sheep substrate. The lowest apparent Km‐values of renin were found in renal venous plasma from the stenosed kidneys (198 ± 13 μg/1) compared with the contralateral side (301 ± 20 μg/1; p < 0.001). Mean apparent Km‐values of juxtaglomerular apparatus renin in the stenosed (270 ± 36 μg/D and contralateral (292 ± 37 μg/D kidneys did not differ. No significant differences were found between mean apparent Km‐values for renin in peripheral plasma of renovascular hypertensive patients and control subjects using either homologous human or heterologous sheep renin substrate. The results suggest that, in addition to the renin concentration other factors are relevant to chronic high blood pressure in renovascular hypertension.
Enzyme Activities in Skeletal Muscles from Patients with Peripheral Arterial Insufficiency
Authors: Bylund A.‐C. , Hammarsten J. , Holm J. , Scherstén T.
Published: March 2008

The enzyme pattern in gastrocnemius muscle tissue was studied in 3 9 patients with peripheral arterial insufficiency. Phosphofructokinase and glucose‐6‐phosphate‐dehydroge‐nase were significantly increased in the skeletal muscles from these patients. The most pronounced changes were found in 3‐OH‐acyl‐CoA‐dehydrogenase, citrate synthase, and in cytochrome‐c‐oxidase. These enzyme activities were increased by 60, 40 and 25 per cent respectively.

In patients with claudication as the only symptom, the metabolic capacity was generally increased in skeletal muscles affected by the low blood flow. With increasing severity of arterial insufficiency, all enzyme activities decreased and glycolytic enzymes were affected first. 3‐OH‐acyl‐CoA‐dehydrògenase, citrate synthase and cytochrome‐c‐oxidase activities were still comparatively high in patients with gangrenous foot ulcers, indicating some maintenance of the muscle viability even in situations with very low blood flow.
Defective Renal Handling of Water in the Rat with a Portacaval Shunt*
Authors: Lauterburg B. , Bircher J.
Published: March 2008

Male rats with a portacaval anastomosis, placed in metabolic cages excreted twice as much urine as unoperated control rats. After subcutaneous injection of one unit of pitressin tannate in oil, the rats on average exhibited a 27% reduction in fluid intake and a 37% reduction in urine volume. Nevertheless the rats still excreted 60% more urine than control rats. Fluid restriction resulted in a reduction in urine volume and an increase in urine osmolality in both groups of rats. Shunted rats, however, continued to excrete 49 ml.kg.‐1 24h‐1., while drinking only 43 ml. kg.‐1 24h‐1. Owing to the negative water balance plasma osmolality rose by 22 mosm/kg H2O. Two weeks after portacaval anastomosis arterial prostaglandin‐E concentrations were 412 ng/1, compared to 158 ng/1 in control rats. The results are consistent with the idea, that the shunt induced diuresis may be due to the renal effects of prostaglandin‐E.
Natriuresis and Renin Release by the Denervated Dog Kidney During Furosemide Administration
Authors: Bencsáth P. , Szalay L. , Takács L.
Published: March 2008

Renal excretion of sodium and water, renal venous plasma renin activity and renin secretion rate were measured during the administration of furosemide (5 mg/kg) to 10 anaesthetized dogs, previously subjected to unilateral splanchnicotomy (“renal denervation”). Denervation diuresis and natriuresis, observed during control periods, did not occur when the diuretic was given and there were no significant changes in glomerular filtration rate or renal plasma flow in either the intact or denervated kidneys. Despite the abolition of denervation natriuresis with furosemide, plasma renin activity and renin secretion rate were depressed by splanchnicotomy. Thus, changes in the sodium load to the macula densa do not seem to play a decisive role in decreasing renin release following renal denervation.
Compensatory Adaptation of Bicarbonate Excretion Following Acute Contralateral Kidney Exclusion in the Dog
Authors: Guignard J. ‐P. , Dirks J.H.
Published: March 2008

Changes in the excretion of bicarbonate, sodium and potassium in one kidney after exclusion (complete sudden ligation of renal pedicle) of its partner have been studied in 16 dogs undergoing bicarbonate diuresis. Fluid balance, haematocrit, plasma electrolyte and protein concentrations were maintained constant throughout the experiment. Acute contralateral renal pedicle ligation lead to an immediate increase in bicarbonate as well as water, sodium and potassium excretion by the remaining kidney. The rapid and immediate increase in the fractional and absolute rates of bicarbonate excretion was observed at varying levels of bicarbonate loading, with the greatest response occurring at the highest infusion rate. Sodium, potassium and water excretion also increased in parallel with urinary bicarbonate loss. The increase in bicarbonate excretion was not accounted for by changes in extracellular fluid volume, plasma composition, glomerular filtration rate, effective renal plasma flow, aldosterone and vasopressin. In 8 sham‐operated animals, no abrupt increase in sodium and bicarbonate excretion occurred despite similar continued infusion of sodium bicarbonate. It was concluded that exclusion of one kidney induces immediate adaptive excretory changes for sodium and bicarbonate in the remaining kidney, and that these changes are not accounted for by any of the known factors normally regulating sodium and bicarbonate excretion.
Effects of Angiotensin II and Noradrenaline on Intrarenal Haemodynamies in the Rat*
Authors: Rentsch H. P. , Ayer G. , Valloton M. , Ziegler W. , Truniger B.
Published: March 2008

The haemodynamic effects of angiotensin II and noradrenaline were studied in the rat kidney. These pressors were given by intravenous infusion in stepwise increasing doses. Intrarenal haemodynmaics were analyzed by the 13 3enon washout technique, 85krypton autoradiography and silastic casting of the renal vascular tree. Angiotensin II induced significant changes in intrarenal haemodynamies before any changes in systemic blood pressure were detected. The decrease in mean renal blood flow (2.91 ml.min‐1.g‐1 in controls, 1.76 ml.min‐1.g‐1 in rats given 50 μg of angiotensin Il.kg‐1.h‐1) reflects a reduction in component I blood flow rate (from 3.9 to 2.9 ml.min‐1.g‐1) as well as a decrease in the fraction of total renal blood flow supplied to component I of the washout curve (from 84% to 62%). With noradrenaline an increase in total renal resistance occurred simultaneously with the elevation of mean arterial blood pressure. The resulting reduction in mean renal blood flow (from 2.76 ml.min‐1.g‐1 in controls to 1.55 ml.min‐1.g‐1 in rats given 1000 yg of noradrenaline kg‐1. h‐1) reflects a decrease in component I blood flow rate with lower infusion rates and a drop in component I flow fraction (from 82% to 52%) with higher doses. In contrast to canine kidneys, no evidence for a patchy cortical vasoconstriction was found in the rat. Using autoradiography it was possible to attribute component I to the renal cortex and subcortical area of the kidney.
The Effect of Meal Feeding and of Sham‐Feeding on Insulin Secretion in Dogs
Authors: Fischer U. , Hommel H. , Gottschling H.‐D. , Nowak W.
Published: March 2008

After feeding intact conscious dogs 1000 g mashed meat, peripheral venous immuno‐reactive insulin activity (IRI) increases before any enhancement of amino nitrogen concentration. This course of IRI is paralleled by a decrease of free fatty acids. Meal feeding in dogs, whose pancreatic juice is completely diverted from the gut by a fistula, is followed by a similar IRI increase without a distinct enhancement of amino nitrogen.
Observations on Lipid Metabolism in Chronic Renal Failure, During Conservative and Haemodialysis Therapy
Authors: Novarini A. , Zuliani U. , Bandini L. , Caronna S. , Montanari A. , Perinotto P.
Published: March 2008

The main variables of glycolipid metabolism (blood non‐esterified fatty acids, triglycerides, cholesterol, insulin, glucose) have been measured in basal conditions in ura‐emic patients on conservative treatment and on dialysis of different duration and bath glucose concentration (no glucose, 1 g/1, 2 g/1).

Basal values for the patients on conservative dietary treatment are not different from normal.

In dialysed patients, the blood non‐esterified fatty acid and triglyceride concentrations are increased (p < 0.001) while cholesterol glucose and insulin levels are unchanged.

No significant difference is found between the various types of dialysis, having different duration and bath glucose concentration.
Lecithin: Cholesterol Acyltransferase Activity and Cholestyramine Resin Therapy in Man
Authors: Miller J. P.
Published: March 2008

The effect of the bile‐acid‐sequestering agent cholestyramine on esterification of plasma cholesterol has been studied in vitro. No change in the activity of plasma lecithin: cholesterol acyltransferase was found by either of the two assay methods employed. Similarly the resin did not produce any significant change in the ability of plasma to act as substrate for a given lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase source. It is concluded that the frequently reported relationship between plasma cholesterol concentration and lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase activity does not represent cause and effect. Also other variables influenced by bile‐acid‐sequestering agents, such as hepatic cholesterol synthesis, are unlikely to be major determinants of plasma lecithin: cholesterol acyltransferase activity.
The effects of digoxin and β‐methyldigoxin on the heart rate of decompensated patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: ANDERSSON K.‐E. , JOHANSSON B. W. , LEDERMANN H. , SCHENCK H. VON , THORELL J. I.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Eighteen patients with atrial fibrillation were given digoxin 0.13 mg twice daily for 3 weeks and β‐methyldigoxin 0.10 mg twice daily for another 3 weeks. At the end of each 3 week period an exercise test was performed and the effects on the heart rate of the two drugs were compared. No difference in heart rate was obtained at rest, whereas the heart rate after 6 min of exercise was higher during treatment with digoxin (131 beats/min) than when the patients were taking β‐methyldigoxin (124 beats/min). There were no significant differences between digoxin and β‐methyldigoxin in their effects on the ECG (R‐R intervals, T‐wave, Q‐T duration). The plasma concentrations of the two glycosides were determined by radioimmunoassay and by 86Rb‐uptake inhibition assay. Comparable plasma concentration values (1.0 ng/ml for digoxin, 1.1 ng/ml for β‐methyldigoxin, mean values) were obtained by radioimmunoassay, but the 86Rb‐technique gave significantly higher values (mean 1.5 ng/ml) for β‐methyldigoxin.

It is concluded that β‐methyldigoxin is equal to digoxin for producing slowing of the heart rate in patients with atrial fibrillation.
A latex agglutination test for rapid quantitative estimation of the plasmin–antiplasmin complex in human plasma
Authors: COLLEN D. , COCK F. DE , CAMBIASO C. L. , MASSON P.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. An antiserum was raised in rabbits against human plasmin‐antiplasmin complex and rendered specific for neoantigens of this complex by absorption with purified plasminogen and plasma. Polystyrene particles were coated with the specific antibodies and used in an agglutination test for the determination of plasmin‐antiplasmin complex in the plasma from various patients. Purified plasmin‐antiplasmin complex at a concentration of 0.1–0.2 mg/l was found to cause a clear agglutination of the particles.

Activation of fresh human plasma with urokinase caused progressive generation of agglutinating activity up to a plasma dilution of 1/480. Intravenous infusion of streptokinase into patients resulted in an increase of the plasmin‐antiplasmin titre of at least 1/240. Sera from patients with rheumatoid factor also agglutinated the particles but this activity could be removed by absorbing rheumatoid factor on insolubilized human IgG.

Out of 101 male and twenty‐three female control subjects, only three men had a plasmin‐antiplasmin titre above 1/16. Of 230 hospitalized patients, plasmin‐antiplasmin titres of 1/40 or more were detected in twenty‐five patients. Most of these patients had diseases which are frequently associated with in vivo coagulation or fibrinolysis, but among them there was only one who showed diffuse intravascular coagulation detectable by classical methods. In the absence of an increased plasmin‐antiplasmin titre none of the haemostasis analyses were indicative of in vivo coagulation or fibrinolysis. Seven out of eight patients with diffuse intravascular coagulation of various origin had plasmin‐antiplasmin titres of 1/80 or 1/160.

Thus, the present latex agglutination test, owing to its simplicity and sensitivity, appears to be a practical routine screening test for detecting fibrinolytic activation in plasma.
Metabolism of antithrombin III (heparin cofactor) in man: effects of venous thrombosis and of heparin administration
Authors: COLLEN D. , SCHETZ J. , COCK F. DE , HOLMER E. , VERSTRAETE M.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. The metabolism of human antithrombin III (heparin cofactor) was studied in four control subjects, in four subjects with peripheral obliterative arterial disease, in six patients with recent venous thrombosis and in one patient with clinically severe haemophilia A. The labelled antithrombin III had a high specific activity (5.75 units/mg) and displayed a single band on SDS‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. On Sephadex G‐100 gel filtration the labelled material eluted in the same position as the antithrombin III activity in plasma. Crossed immunoelectrophoresis of a mixture of fresh plasma and labelled antithrombin III against a specific antiserum, revealed a single precipitin line in which radioactivity was concentrated. The changes in electrophoretic mobility of both the plasma antithrombin III and the labelled material following the addition of heparin to the mixture or following coagulation were identical. The purified antithrombin III behaved as a homogeneous protein in the turnover experiments. The plasma radioactivity data were approximated by a sum of two exponential terms and the metabolism of antithrombin III represented by a two compartment mammillary model.

Results in the control subjects were as follows: plasma antithrombin III concentration 19.6±2.3 mg/100 ml; intravascular fraction 0.45±0.05; fractional catabolic rate 0.55±0.02 of the plasma pool per day; half‐life of the plasma radioactivity 2.83±0.26 days. Circulating large molecular weight degradation products of labelled antithrombin III could not be detected by Sephadex G‐100 gel filtration. No significant differences in these parameters were found in the patients with peripheral arterial insufficiency. The turnover rate of antithrombin III was normal in the patient with haemophilia A.

In three patients with venous thrombosis not treated with heparin, the turnover of labelled antithrombin III was in the normal range. In three patients with venous thrombosis, treated with heparin, the plasma radioactivity half‐life was significantly shortened (2.13±0.08 days) and the fractional catabolic rate increased (0.75±0.05 of the plasma pool per day). In one of these patients, the labelled antithrombin III had been incubated with an equimolar amount of heparin prior to injection. In this patient the plasma radioactivity half‐life was in the same range as in the other two patients (2.15 days).
The influence of phentolamine, an adrenergic blocking agent, on insulin secretion during surgery
Authors: NAKAO KAZUYASU , MIYATA MASAHIKO
Published: March 2008

Abstract. A rapid intravenous glucose load (20 g) was given with a phentolamine infusion during and after elective abdominal surgery. Plasma levels of glucose, free fatty acids, and insulin were measured to investigate the influence of surgical stress on insulin secretion.

When Ringer's lactate solution was infused into a control group of subjects during surgery, plasma levels of insulin did not change during and after the surgery while plasma levels of glucose and free fatty acids increased gradually during this period. Similar results were also noted in another control group in whom only Ringer's lactate solution and phentolamine had been infused. This evidence suggests that insulin secretion responding to endogenous hyperglycaemia is suppressed during surgery.

In the group which was given the glucose load during infusion of only Ringer's lactate solution, plasma levels of insulin significantly increased soon after the glucose load and then gradually decreased. In another group which was given the glucose load during infusion of Ringer's lactate and phentolamine, plasma levels of insulin also increased significantly after the glucose load and remained elevated during surgery. The maximum increment of plasma insulin after the glucose load in the latter group was significantly higher than that in the former group.

From these results it is suggested that suppression of insulin secretion by surgical stress is inhibited by the alpha blocking agent phentolamine.
Insulin disappearance rate in pregnant and non‐pregnant women, and in non‐pregnant women given GHRIH
Authors: LIND T. , BELL S. , GILMORE E. , HUISJES H. J. , SCHALLY A. V.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. The half‐life of injected monocomponent insulin, as judged by radioimmunoassay, has been found to be 3–31/2 min in a group of healthy women. This value is unaffected by pregnancy. Tests were repeated in non‐pregnant women during an infusion of GHRIH to ensure that endogenous insulin secretion was suppressed by the dose of insulin given. Similar values were obtained.
Plasma aldosterone during extracellular fluid volume expansion in patients on regular haemodialysis
Authors: ØLGAARD K. , MADSEN S. , LADEFOGED J. , REGEUR LISBETH
Published: March 2008

Abstract. The influence of extracellular fluid volume expansion on the plasma aldosterone concentration (PAC) was investigated in five anephric and six non‐nephrectomized patients on regular haemodialysis, and compared to a control group of four anephric and four non‐nephrectomized patients. Plasma‐renin activity, cortisol, Na+, and K+ were measured together with the PAC during the investigation. In anephric patients the PAC remained constant during the control period as well as during extracellular fluid volume expansion by infusion of 350 mmol of 20% mannitol. In the non‐nephrectomized patients PAC diminished after mannitol infusion. The decline in PAC was correlated with the basal levels of PAC and the plasma renin activity. It is concluded that 5% extracellular fluid volume expansion has no direct influence on the regulation of PAC in patients without the renal renin‐angiotensin system and that the regulation of PAC in anephric patients in the present investigation is probably mediated by changes in potassium and ACTH.
Regional vascular responses to asphyxia in the rabbit
Authors: WYLER FELIX , HOF ROBERT
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Organ blood flow was measured in eight spontaneously breathing male New Zealand white rabbits exposed to a 50 min period of asphyxia. The results were compared with eight control animals. Cardiac output and arterial pressure did not change. There was increased flow to the heart, brain and diaphragm. Flow to the kidneys and adipose tissue was reduced. Flow to the gastro‐intestinal tract, liver, skeletal muscle and carcass was unchanged. Prolonged moderate asphyxia produces preferential blood supply to vital organs and maintains flow to the skeletal musculature and the gastro‐intestinal tract; their blood supply is diverted mainly from the kidneys. These changes are similar to those seen in haemorrhagic and endotoxic shock in the rabbit.
Metabolic and clinical studies on patients with acromegaly treated with bromocriptine over 22 months
Authors: SCHWINN G. , DIRKS H. , McINTOSH C. , KOBBERLING J.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. In twenty‐two patients with active acromegaly who were untreated or unsuccessfully operated or irradiated (mean growth hormone (GH) values >4 ng/ml) the following investigations were performed: routine laboratory tests, tomography of pituitary fossa, oral glucose tolerance tests, TRH and other pituitary function tests and GH profiles over 5–10 h before and during bromocriptine treatment with daily doses between 7.5 and 50 mg. In seventeen patients GH was suppressed to less than 50% by bromocriptine, in thirteen of them it was normalized on at least one occasion. A TRH induced GH release was observed in all but two responders to bromocriptine before therapy. This effect of TRH was not blunted during treatment with bromocriptine and also in the two patients with negative tests before therapy a significant GH increase was observed. In no non‐responder to bromocriptine was a significant increase of GH after TRH observed. One patient showed a secondary resistance to bromocriptine during a period of treatment with griseofulvin. In the remaining sixteen patients the GH suppression has been consistent for between 3 and 22 months. A single dose of pimozide abolished the bromocriptine effect on GH totally in one patient; in others a slight or no significant effect was observed. Tissue swelling and sweating decreased in all bromocriptine responders and glucose tolerance improved in five patients. In four diabetic patients a partial or full remission of diabetes occurred. Apart from postural hypotension after the first administration in two patients no other severe side effects have been observed. Sella size and the other pituitary functions did not change during the time of the study. It seems that a high percentage of acromegalics may be successfully treated with bromocriptine.
Alterations of lipid metabolism in healthy volunteers during long‐term ethanol intake
Authors: BELFRAGE PER , BERG BERTEL , HÄGERSTRAND INGA , NILSSON‐EHLE PETER , TORNQVIST HANS , WIEBE THOMAS
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Nine young, healthy male volunteers were given ethanol (75 g/day) for 5 weeks. The ethanol was divided into five daily doses and taken so that blood ethanol levels never exceeded 0.04% (w/v).

During the latter part of the ethanol intake period, there was a significant, transient increase of plasma triglyceride (TG) concentrations followed by reduction to normal levels. A three‐fold increase of lipoprotein lipase activity (LLA) occurred in biopsy specimens of adipose tissue. An increase of α‐lipoprotein concentrations, which correlated significantly with the decrease in plasma TG levels and the increase in adipose LLA, was also observed during the ethanol intake period. No changes were observed in plasma cholesterol and β‐lipoprotein levels.

A transient, three‐fold increase of TG concentrations occurred in liver biopsy specimens. Ultrastructural and cytochemical examinations of the biopsy specimens showed hyperplasia of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum, and increased canallicular activity of γ‐glutamyl transferase (γ‐GT) activity in most subjects towards the end of and after the ethanol intake period. Serum γ‐GT levels also increased significantly.