bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CHANGES IN BLOOD FLOW AND VASCULAR PERMEABILITY OF THE TESTIS, EPIDIDYMIS AND ACCESSORY REPRODUCTIVE ORGANS OF THE RAT AFTER THE ADMINISTRATION OF CADMIUM CHLORIDE
Authors: WAITES G. M. H. , SETCHELL B. P.
Published: December 2008

The effect of s.c. injections of cadmium chloride (3 μmole/100 g. body wt.) on the blood flow and vascular permeability of the testis, epididymis and accessory reproductive organs of rats has been examined. Sapirstein's indicator fractionation technique was used to measure blood flow with [131I]iodoantipyrine and [86Rb]-rubidium chloride. A rubidium-rejecting compartment was found in the testis similar to, but smaller than, that in the brain and pineal body.

Testicular blood flow started to decrease within 3 hr. of giving cadmium (Cd) and by 12 hr. was only 2–9 % of the control values; it then started to recover but after 14 days it was still only 31 % of the control values.

Apart from a small reduction of blood flow to the first part of the head of the epididymis 6 hr. after Cd administration, blood flow was not strikingly reduced in any part of the epididymis by Cd treatment. However, blood flow to all parts of the epididymis had increased markedly when examined 7 days after giving Cd; this was most evident in the first part of the head of the epididymis.

Blood flow through the accessory reproductive organs was reduced within 6 hr. of Cd injection. Blood flow in the seminal vesicles returned to normal between 1 and 14 days after treatment but blood flow in the prostate gland did not recover.

The movement of albumin from intravascular to extravascular compartments was used as an index of vascular permeability. This index increased in the testis in the period 1–6 hr. after Cd administration and the change occasionally occurred before blood flow decreased. A similar increase was seen in the first part of the head of the epididymis 3–6 hr. after Cd, but no change was seen in the rest of the epididymis.

The evidence suggests that Cd acts by damaging the endothelium of the capillaries in the testis leading to prolonged stoppage of blood flow which would lead to hypoxia in the spermiogenic epithelium.
THE EFFECT OF VARIOUS ANTI-OESTROGENIC COMPOUNDS ON THE RETICULO-ENDOTHELIAL SYSTEM AND REPRODUCTIVE TRACT IN THE OVARIECTOMIZED MOUSE
Authors: NICOL T. , VERNON-ROBERTS B. , QUANTOCK D. C.
Published: December 2008

(1) Testosterone, progesterone, oestriol, 17α-ethynyl-19-nortestosterone and MER-25 were shown to inhibit the vaginal smear response and the uterine growth response to 17β-oestradiol and diethylstilboestrol.

(2) Testosterone potentiated the stimulant effect of 17β-oestradiol on the reticulo-endothelial system (RES); but had no effect on the RE stimulation produced by diethylstilboestrol.

(3) Progesterone had no effect on RE stimulation produced by 17β-oestradiol or diethylstilboestrol.

(4) Oestriol and 17α-ethynyl-19-nortestosterone had no effect on RE stimulation produced by 17β-oestradiol; but both compounds inhibited the stimulant effect of diethylstilboestrol on the RES.

(5) MER-25 inhibited RE stimulation produced by both 17β-oestradiol and diethylstilboestrol.

(6) The effect of anti-oestrogens on oestrogen-produced RE stimulation was shown to depend on the nature of the stimulating oestrogen used.
THE LIVER AND THE FEEDBACK ACTION OF OVARIAN HORMONES IN THE IMMATURE RAT
Authors: DONOVAN B. T. , O'KEEFFE MARY C.
Published: December 2008

(1) The structure and function of ovarian autotransplants made to the spleen and kidney were compared in order to measure the ability of the liver to inactivate ovarian hormones at different ages in the rat.

(2) In the immature rat the data from the uterine weights indicated that little or no hepatic inactivation of gonadal hormone occurred since grafts to the spleen or kidney were equally capable of maintaining normal uterine growth.

(3) With increasing age, the liver appeared to develop the ability to inactivate ovarian hormones; this capacity was reflected by the difference in the uterine weights of animals bearing ovarian tissue in the kidney as opposed to those in the spleen.

(4) The ability of the liver to metabolize ovarian hormones appeared to develop to a significant degree at about the time of puberty.
PLASMA NON-ESTERIFIED FATTY ACID LEVELS IN HYPOPITUITARY SUBJECTS
Authors: STAMP T. C. B.
Published: December 2008

Changes in the plasma levels of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) in a group of patients with proven hypopituitarism have been compared with those found in control subjects during prolonged fasting, after the injection of insulin and after the oral administration of glucose with and without the previous administration of insulin.

During a 4 hr. prolongation of an overnight fast plasma NEFA levels increased at a significantly slower rate in the patients with hypopituitarism. The intravenous injection of insulin was followed by a prompt fall in NEFA levels in the control group, and by a rapid return to or above original values. The recovery was consistently and markedly impaired in the patients with hypopituitarism and this abnormality differentiated them more clearly from the normal subjects than the abnormality in their plasma sugar response to insulin.

The patients with pituitary hypofunction had a flat plasma sugar curve after the oral administration of glucose, but there were only minor differences from the normal plasma NEFA levels. Previous insulin administration impaired glucose tolerance in normal subjects and resulted in a more rapid late return of NEFA levels than after the administration of glucose alone. This late rise in NEFA did not occur in the hypopituitary group.

The results obtained support the concept that pituitary integrity is required for normal fat mobilization. The consistency of the changes suggests that tests based on plasma NEFA measurements may provide a useful indirect means of diagnosing pituitary hypofunction.
THE INHIBITORY EFFECT OF ETHANOL ON THE RELEASE OF OXYTOCIN DURING PARTURITION IN THE RABBIT
Authors: FUCHS ANNA-RIITTA
Published: December 2008

The effect of ethanol on parturition was studied in conscious unrestrained rabbits fitted with intra-uterine balloons. The onset of labour was predicted by an oxytocin sensitivity test.

With blood ethanol concentrations of 0·25–0·35 g./100 ml., the onset of labour was inhibited, typical contractions were absent, delivery was prolonged, abnormal and postponed for about 30 hr. With a blood concentration of 0·2 g./100 ml., labour contractions were less intense than normal and delivery was prolonged. At a lower concentration, 0·14 g./100 ml., parturition was apparently normal.

Uterine sensitivity to exogenous oxytocin was unimpaired by ethanol treatment. The interference with parturition by ethanol is attributed to central inhibition of the abrupt reflex release of oxytocin.
THE EFFECT OF RESERPINE, 5-HYDROXYTRYPTAMINE AND OTHER DRUGS ON INDUCED OVULATION IN IMMATURE MICE
Authors: BROWN P. S.
Published: December 2008

Ovulation was induced in immature mice by pregnant mare serum gonadotrophin. Reserpine in doses of 6–9 μg. prevented ovulation in these animals. Methoserpidine (up to 333 μg.) did not reduce the incidence of ovulation. A single dose of 2 mg. α-methyldopa was without effect but several doses at intervals inhibited ovulation.

Groups of mice treated with gonadotrophin and reserpine were pretreated with other drugs. α-Methyldopa decreased the sedative effect of reserpine but not its inhibitory effect on ovulation. Dopa antagonized both effects of reserpine.

5-Hydroxytryptamine creatinine sulphate in doses of 100 or 200 μg. injected s.c. 16 or 17 hr. before the mice were killed consistently increased the percentage ovulating in response to gonadotrophin. A significant increase was also obtained when 5-hydroxytryptophan was injected into mice pretreated with iproniazid.
FRUCTOSE AND CITRIC ACID IN THE MALE ACCESSORY GLANDS OF THE INDIAN PALM SQUIRREL, FUNAMBULUS PENNANTI (WROUGHTON)
Authors: REDDI A. H. , PRASAD M. R. N. , DURAISWAMI S.
Published: December 2008

The sites of formation of fructose and citric acid in the male accessory glands of reproduction in the Indian palm squirrel, Funambulus pennanti, are described. The seminal vesicle secretes only fructose in concentrations much higher than any recorded so far in a rodent. The compact prostate produces both fructose and citric acid. The findings are discussed in relation to the sites of formation of these constituents in other rodents.
OBSERVATIONS ON THE ASSAY OF HUMAN URINARY FOLLICLE-STIMULATING HORMONE BY THE AUGMENTATION TEST IN MICE
Authors: BROWN P. S. , WELLS M.
Published: December 2008

The follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) content of urinary gonadotrophic extracts was assayed by its effect on the ovarian weight of immature mice when given in conjunction with 40 i.u. human chorionic gonadotrophin. About three-quarters of all routine assays gave values of λ between 0·15 and 0·30. Precision was slightly increased when the material was given in three rather than in five injections. Correction of ovarian weight for body weight was either invalid or of no value in reducing variance. Removal of between-litter variance increased precision considerably. Mice of three randomly bred colonies were all satisfactory, and inbred C57BL mice were also suitable for the assay. C3H mice were less sensitive.

The efficiency of different methods of extracting FSH from urine was examined. The method of Johnsen (1958) using precipitation with tannic acid was considered the most satisfactory and gave extracts of high potency and low bulk.

Limited experiments in which purified human pituitary FSH was assayed with and without added luteinizing hormone, gave results compatible with the assumption that the method is specific for FSH.
THE COMBINED EFFECT OF MONOAMINE OXIDASE INHIBITORS AND CORTICOSTEROIDS ON THE PITUITARY-GONADAL SYSTEM OF MALE RATS
Authors: ZOR U. , AILABOUNI H. , SULMAN F. G.
Published: December 2008

The mechanism by which combined treatment with monoamine oxidase inhibitors and a corticosteroid reduces the weight of the accessory sex glands in intact rats by about one half has been studied. Phenelzine sulphate in combination with hydrocortisone acetate given for 30 days to ovariectomized rats reduced the pituitary stores of luteinizing hormone (LH) by 33%. Similar reductions in somatotrophic hormone, corticotrophin and thyroid-stimulating hormone content were found after comparable treatment, whereas luteotrophic hormone increased.

The increase of weight of the seminal vesicles and prostate gland produced by human chorionic gonadotrophin could be partly antagonized by the simultaneous administration of mebanazine and dexamethasone, but the action of testosterone on these glands in castrated animals was not inhibited. Interference with the production and effectiveness of LH is therefore the most likely mode of action by which these drugs effect the reduction of the weight of the accessory sex glands.
BIOASSAY OF PARATHYROID HORMONE IN RATS BY DETERMINATION OF PLASMA CALCIUM, URINARY 32P EXCRETION AND SERUM ALKALINE PHOSPHATASE
Authors: TREACHER R. J.
Published: December 2008

Methods for assay of parathyroid hormone based on an increase in serum calcium concentration, urinary 32P excretion and serum alkaline phosphatase elevation in parathyroidectomized rats have been compared and modifications introduced to improve sensitivity, precision, speed and ease of manipulation.

Both the serum calcium and urinary 32P assay gave good precision (mean λ = 0·23 and 0·29, respectively) but by the serum calcium method less than 10 USP units of parathyroid hormone could not be detected, whereas the phosphaturic assay detects as little as 0·5 USP unit.

Both assays are simple to perform and each requires only 2 days to complete. They can be combined in a single design using the same animals.

Assays based on serum alkaline phosphatase levels in parathyroidectomized rats were not successful since it was impossible to produce a significant alteration in serum alkaline phosphatase by the administration of parathyroid hormone.
HYDROXYSTEROID DEHYDROGENASE ACTIVITY IN NORMAL HUMAN PLACENTA FROM SIX WEEKS TO FORTY-TWO WEEKS OF GESTATION
Authors: HART D. McK.
Published: December 2008

Fifty-two normal human placentae from the 6th to the 42nd week of pregnancy were surveyed for 3α-, 3β-, 6β-, 11α-, 11β-, 12α-, 16α-, 16β-, 17α-, 17β-, 20β-, 21- and 24-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSD) activities.

Strong NAD-linked 3β-, 16β-, and 17β-HSD activities and moderate NADP-linked 3β-, 16β- and 17β-HSD activities were found in the villous trophoblast at all ages. Weak 3α- and weak or trace 6β- and 11β-HSD activities were found in the trophoblast of some placentae using NAD as cofactor, with no obvious age distribution. Moderate 17β-HSD activity, NAD-linked only, was found in the villous stroma and vasculature.
EFFECTS OF HYDROCORTISONE AND ADRENALECTOMY ON THE ACTIVITY OF MAMMALIAN EPIDERMAL MELANOCYTES
Authors: SNELL R. S.
Published: December 2008

The effect of hydrocortisone acetate and adrenalectomy on the melanocytes and melanin in the skin of the anterior abdominal wall has been studied in pure black and pure red male guinea-pigs. The hormone was injected subcutaneously in doses of 1·6, 5 and 12·5 mg./day for 1 month into intact guinea-pigs and in doses of 2·5 mg./day into adrenalectomized guinea-pigs.

Biopsy specimens of skin were taken before and after the hormone treatment and were processed with the Dopa reagent; both skin sheets and vertical sections were examined. In the adrenalectomized animals a further specimen of skin was taken some time after the cessation of the hormone treatment.

Hydrocortisone and adrenalectomy produced no effect on the activity of the melanocytes. A statistical analysis of the melanocyte counts showed no change.
EFFECTS OF THE ANDROGEN ANTAGONIST CYPROTERONE ACETATE ON THE TESTICULAR STRUCTURE, SPERMATOGENESIS AND ACCESSORY SEXUAL GLANDS OF TESTOSTERONE-TREATED ADULT HYPOPHYSECTOMIZED RATS
Authors: NEUMANN F. , von BERSWORDT-WALLRABE R.
Published: December 2008

The antagonistic action of 1,2α-methylene-6-chloro-Δ4,6-pregnadiene-17α-ol-3,20-dione-17α-acetate (cyproterone acetate) to testosterone propionate (TP) on the testes and accessory glands was investigated in hypophysectomized adult male rats. Treatment of the animals began on the day of hypophysectomy and was continued for 21 days.

Daily subcutaneous injections of 0·3 or 1·5 mg. TP/100 g. body weight almost completely inhibited testicular atrophy and involution of the germinal epithelium.

Simultaneous administration of 0·3 mg. oestradiol/100 g. body weight did not influence the effect of testosterone propionate.

Cyproterone acetate inhibited the effect of testosterone propionate. The extent of inhibition was dose dependent. The antagonism to testosterone was manifested by reduction of testicular weight and by the inhibition of spermiogenesis. The latest stages of spermiogenesis were primarily influenced.

Intratesticular cyproterone acetate together with subcutaneous administration of TP caused similar effects in the testes to those of subcutaneous administration. However, regression of the germinal epithelium in the injected testis seemed to be more pronounced than in the contralateral testis.

The effects of TP on the accessory sex glands (prostate, seminal vesicles) were inhibited by simultaneous administration of cyproterone acetate. It is concluded that cyproterone acetate competitively inhibits the action of testosterone propionate on the target organs.
IODINATED CONSTITUENTS OF PLASMA OF NORMAL SUBJECTS AND OF PATIENTS SUFFERING FROM THYROTOXICOSIS
Authors: SHALOM E. S.
Published: December 2008

A method is described for the fractionation and estimation of iodine-containing constituents in the plasma, by means of preferential precipitation and elution. The plasma of 11 normal subjects and 22 patients suffering from thyrotoxicosis was analysed. Two significant findings emerged, namely, the presence of iodinated tyrosines and a decrease in the level of plasma inorganic iodide in thyrotoxicosis. The factors determining the concentration of plasma inorganic iodide are discussed.
THE EFFECT OF UREA ON THE BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITY OF GONADOTROPHINS OF PLACENTAL, ENDOMETRIAL AND URINARY ORIGIN
Authors: VISUTAKUL PACHARA , BELL E. T. , LORAINE J. A. , FISHER R. B.
Published: December 2008

Human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG), pregnant mare serum gonadotrophin (PMSG) and human menopausal gonadotrophin (HMG) were incubated with varying concentrations of urea at different temperatures for different times.

The luteinizing hormone (LH) activity of HCG was progressively destroyed with increasing concentrations of urea. The degree of inactivation was greater at higher temperatures but the time of incubation did not affect the results.

The follicle-stimulating activity of PMSG was reduced at high urea concentrations; the time of incubation was without effect.

Under the experimental conditions used the LH activity of HMG was generally destroyed to a greater extent than its follicle-stimulating hormone activity.
OVARIAN HORMONES AND GROOMING BEHAVIOUR IN THE RHESUS MONKEY (MACACA MULATTA) UNDER LABORATORY CONDITIONS
Authors: MICHAEL R. P. , HERBERT J. , WELEGALLA J.
Published: December 2008

Grooming behaviour was studied quantitatively by observing pairs of oppositely sexed, adult rhesus monkeys during regular hourly test sessions over 2 yr.; at all other times the animals were caged singly. Rhythmic fluctuations in both male and female grooming occurred in relation to the menstrual cycle; the grooming times of males reached a maximum near mid-cycle, at which time the females' grooming was at a minimum. In some pairs, there were additional changes in the grooming times immediately before menstruation in the same direction as those near mid-cycle. Bilateral ovariectomy of the female of the pair abolished all rhythmic variations and reduced the grooming of the males. Subcutaneous injections of oestradiol into the ovariectomized female restored the grooming of males to the levels seen near mid-cycle. The subsequent addition of progesterone partially, but always consistently, antagonized the effects of oestradiol. Analysis of the hormone-induced alterations in grooming behaviour indicates a primary influence on the effectiveness of the grooming invitations of females, the proportion accepted by males increasing with oestradiol administration. These findings indicate that endocrine factors play a role in regulating grooming activity which constitutes an important aspect of the social behaviour of primates.
THE RELEASE OF NEUROHYPOPHYSIAL HORMONE BY SOUND
Authors: OGLE C. W. , LOCKETT MARY F.
Published: December 2008

Thunderclaps, recorded and replayed, and a sound frequency of 150 cyc./sec. at 98–100 decibels increased the urinary excretion of Na+ and K+ of normal but not of neurohypophysectomized rats; 150 cyc./sec. also increased urine flow. The urinary changes induced by a sound frequency of 150 cyc./sec. closely resembled those caused by the s.c. injection of 4 m-u. oxytocin.

Adrenaline hydrochloride, 0·5–10 μg./100 g. body weight, given s.c., caused antidiuresis, and reduced urinary Na+ and K+; 40 μg. adrenaline increased urine flow, and Na+ and K+ excretion. The Na:K ratio in the urine rose as the dose of adrenaline was increased.

The effect of 5 μg. adrenaline/100 g. given s.c. to rats with denervated kidneys was much the same as that of 40 μg./100 g. in unoperated rats.

Five μg. adrenaline, given subcutaneously, completely antagonized the urinary changes induced by 4 m-u. oxytocin in normal, and adrenalectomized rats, and in animals with denervated kidneys or treated with propylthiouracil. However, the oxytocin-induced kaliuresis in neurohypophysectomized rats was not antagonized.

Vasopressin, 0·2–3·0 m-u. s.c., caused antidiuresis without changes in urinary Na+ and K+ excretion; 6·0 m-u. delayed water excretion markedly and increased urinary Na+ and K+ output.

The urinary changes induced by replayed thunder were attributable to the release of oxytocin together with a lesser amount of vasopressin. By contrast a sound frequency of 150 cyc./sec. probably released oxytocin alone.
THE ROLE OF PLASMA FREE FATTY ACIDS IN THE ELEVATION OF PLASMA CHOLESTEROL AND PHOSPHOLIPIDS PRODUCED BY ADRENALINE
Authors: BARRETT A. M.
Published: December 2008

The effects of adrenaline, noradrenaline, corticotrophin (ACTH), cortisol and corticosterone on the levels of blood lipids have been studied in dogs and rats. Blood glucose, plasma free fatty acids (FFA) and corticosteroids were determined 4 hr. after injection. Plasma cholesterol, phospholipids and triglycerides were determined 24 hr. after the last of three daily treatments. In some experiments an oral glucose load was given at the same time as the hormones. In dogs plasma FFA were increased by adrenaline and noradrenaline, decreased by ACTH plus glucose and not affected by ACTH alone. Gradual rises in the lipoprotein levels of dogs were produced by any of the hormones given and followed acute rises in corticosteroid concentration regardless of the acute changes in plasma FFA. In rats plasma FFA were increased by adrenaline and ACTH, decreased by glucose and not affected by ACTH plus glucose. It was not possible to produce rises in lipoprotein by administering adrenaline or ACTH to rats. Exogenous corticosteroids produced increases in the cholesterol and phospholipid levels. The effects of corticosterone were potentiated by oral glucose but cortisol produced a full effect without extra glucose. The FFA responses to subcutaneous adrenaline in rats were reduced by adrenalectomy, but the increases in plasma FFA produced by intravenous infusion of adrenaline or ACTH were similar in adrenalectomized and intact rats. It was concluded that changes in lipoproteins are not causally related to increased mobilization of FFA but are dependent on increased adrenocortical hormone secretion in the presence of excess carbohydrate.
THE STRUCTURE OF THE MAMMARY GLANDS AND LACTOGENESIS IN FEMINIZED MALE RATS
Authors: NEUMANN F. , ELGER W. , von BERSWORDT-WALLRABE R.
Published: December 2008

Male rats which had been prenatally under the influence of the androgenantagonist cyproterone acetate (1,2α-methylene-6-chloro-Δ4,6-pregnadiene-17α-ol-3,20-dione-17α-acetate) developed nipples, teat ducts, a complete gland cistern, main milk ducts, and mammary glands. As shown by histological criteria, lactogenesis was induced in these feminized rats with adequate hormone therapy after orchidectomy when adult. The mammae contained secretion and were indistinguishable from those of nulliparous female controls under identical hormone treatment. Since male rats have no teats, it was concluded that normally the anlagen for the mammary adnexa are prevented by foetal androgens from undergoing complete female organogenesis.

It seems that in male rat foetuses cyproterone acetate prevents endogenous testosterone from producing the incomplete organogenesis with athelia and without adnexa that normally occurs in the male mamma.
THE EFFECT OF COPPER AND FLUORIDE ON THE BONE OF MICE TREATED WITH PARATHYROID HORMONE
Authors: HAVIVI E. , GUGGENHEIM K.
Published: December 2008

Young mice were injected with 12 units of parathyroid hormone/10 g. body weight, and ash, calcium, phosphorus and uptake of radioactive calcium in their femurs were determined. Administration of the hormone resulted in a decrease of bone ash, calcium and phosphorus, and increased incorporation of radioactive calcium. These results point to the possibility that calcium turnover in bone may be increased after treatment with parathyroid hormone and that bone destruction is more intensive than formation.

Supplementation of the diet with 10–40 mg. copper or 10–50 mg. fluorine/kg. diet counteracted the effect of parathyroid hormone on bone. The highest doses of copper and fluorine used abolished the effect of the hormone completely.

The possible mechanisms of action of these elements are discussed.
ONTOGENY OF THE HYPOPHYSIAL GROWTH-PROMOTING ACTIVITY IN THE CHICK
Authors: ENEMAR A.
Published: December 2008

The appearance of the growth-promoting activity in the cephalic lobe and the caudal lobe of the pars distalis in the chick embryo was investigated by tests on tadpoles. Activity was first found in the caudal lobe of the chick embryo after incubation for 15 days. No growth-promoting activity could be demonstrated in the cephalic lobe, which, on the contrary, had a significant inhibiting effect on the weight gain of tadpoles when obtained before the 15th day of incubation. The appearance of growth-promoting activity in the caudal lobe coincides with the appearance of the so-called A1-cells in this lobe.
CHANGES IN THE LEVELS OF LUTEINIZING HORMONE IN THE PITUITARY OF THE DOMESTIC FOWL DURING AN OVULATORY CYCLE
Authors: HEALD P. J. , FURNIVAL B. E. , ROOKLEDGE K. A.
Published: December 2008

The quantities of luteinizing hormone (LH) in the pituitary glands of the domestic fowl have been measured during an ovulatory cycle using the method of ovarian ascorbic acid depletion. Extracts of avian anterior pituitary were qualitatively similar to a standard preparation of HCG in this test and the activity was destroyed by treatment with urea.

During the ovulatory cycle the levels of LH in the pituitary underwent two major changes, being high at the point of ovulation, falling and remaining low for 6 hr. after ovulation and then rising to a second peak 8 hr. before the next ovulation. The levels decreased rapidly and remained low until at least 2 hr. before ovulation. It is suggested that the variations in pituitary LH content are the result of suppression of release by ovarian hormones produced by the maturing follicles.
INTRASPLENIC IMPLANTS OF OESTRADIOL AND UTERINE GROWTH IN INFANTILE AND PUBERTAL RATS
Authors: DONOVAN B. T. , O'KEEFFE MARY C. , O'KEEFFE HELEN T.
Published: December 2008

The capacity of the liver of the infantile female rat to inactivate oestradiol has been tested by comparison of the effect on the weight of the uterus of β-oestradiol implanted into the spleen or kidney of spayed litter-mate females. Sham-operated, spayed and initial controls were also used. The operations were carried out at daily intervals between 21 and 55 days of age and the animals were killed 5 days later.

As shown by low uterine weights β-oestradiol carried to the liver from the spleen was inactivated at all ages studied.

This result differs from that obtained in previous work employing autotransplants of ovarian tissue to the spleen or kidney and it is suggested that the metabolism of oestradiol differs from that of the hormones secreted by ovary of the prepubertal rat. The spectrum of steroids released before puberty may not be the same as that produced after sexual maturation.
THE EFFECT OF NORETHANDROLONE (NILEVAR) ON SERUM PROTEINS IN THE FEMALE GUINEA-PIG
Authors: REED MAY
Published: December 2008

The effect of norethandrolone, (Nilevar, 17α-ethyl-19-nortestosterone) an anabolic steroid, on the pattern of serum proteins in the adult female guinea-pig was examined. After separation of the serum proteins by starch gel electrophoresis and estimation by transmission densitometry it was found that daily subcutaneous injections of the steroid for 3 weeks led to a decrease in β-globulin. The steroid had little effect on the total serum proteins, albumin or total globulins. Estimation of the rate of turnover of 131I-labelled serum proteins showed no difference between a group of guinea-pigs treated with norethandrolone and their controls treated with the oil vehicle only.
THE ACTION OF OXYTOCIN AND SYNTHETIC ANALOGUES ON THE ISOLATED MAMMARY-GLAND MYOEPITHELIUM OF THE LACTATING RAT; EFFECT OF SOME IONS
Authors: POLÁČEK I. , KREJČÍ I. , RUDINGER J.
Published: December 2008

The contractile response of mammary-gland strips from lactating rats to oxytocin varied with the concentration of calcium ions in the organ bath; calcium could be partially substituted by strontium but not by magnesium. High concentrations of potassium did not substantially affect the response to oxytocin. In these and several other respects the mammary gland myoepithelium resembles uterine smooth muscle, notwithstanding the differences in morphology and embryonal origin.

The effects of 12 synthetic analogues of oxytocin modified in sequence positions 1, 2, and 3 of the peptide chain on the rat mammary-gland strip were examined. None of the analogues showed a higher potency than oxytocin. However, the mammary-gland strip was less sensitive to the structural changes represented in this series of analogues than the rat uterus in vitro. The action of some of the analogues on the mammary-gland strip differs from that of oxytocin in the time-course of the response.
THE UPTAKE AND LOCALIZATION OF [6,7-3H]OESTRADIOL-17β IN TISSUES OF MALE SYRIAN HAMSTERS
Authors: STEGGLES A. W. , KING R. J. B.
Published: December 2008

The uptake, metabolism and intracellular localization of [6,7-3H]oestradiol-17β in male hamster kidneys and liver have been studied. Three doses of [6,7-3H]oestradiol were injected, and tissues were removed 30 min. and 4 hr. later. The tissue radioactivity was separated into 'free', 'glucosiduronide', 'sulphate' and 'polar' fractions. Most of the radioactivity was associated with the 'polar' fraction. Oestrone and oestradiol were identified in liver and kidney. Cell fractionation showed that most of the radioactivity was in the 'soluble' fraction. Neither the amount of [6,7-3H]oestradiol injected nor the time after injection at which the tissues were taken affected the metabolites or their intracellular location.
GONADOTROPHIN-INHIBITING PROPERTIES OF KAOLIN-ACETONE EXTRACTS OF HUMAN URINE
Authors: HIPKIN L. J.
Published: December 2008

Pooled urine from various groups of human subjects was extracted by the kaolin-acetone procedure of Albert (A procedure) and that of Loraine & Brown (L-B procedure). Two to three times as much solid was obtained with the L-B procedure. When the biological activity of the extracts was compared by the mouse uterine weight assay, they had similar potencies when the assay was conducted with small doses of extract. When larger doses of extract were used the A extract was 2·25 times as active as the L-B extract. Extracts obtained by both procedures contained gonadotrophin inhibiting material, but the L-B extract was 3·5 times more active in this respect. It was concluded that this was the reason for the apparent difference in response to the extracts at the higher dosage.

Gel filtration studies indicated that NaOH elution from kaolin and precipitation with 5 vol. acetone (as used in the L-B procedure), extracted more gonadotrophin-inhibiting material. Since this material was without gonadotrophic activity, NH4OH elution with 2 vol. acetone precipitation (as used in the A procedure) is preferable for urine extraction before gonadotrophin assays.
NEURAL FACTORS IN THE MAINTENANCE OF LACTATION IN THE RAT
Authors: EDWARDSON J. A. , EAYRS J. T.
Published: December 2008

The role of the peripheral innervation of mammary tissue in the maintenance of lactation has been investigated by the procedure of selective thelectomy combined with denervation of the posterior thoracic nipples.

When suckling is restricted to a single pair of nipples bilateral transection of the three adjacent nerves supplying a nipple arrests lactation completely; partial denervation is associated with a reduced level of lactational performance which is directly related to the concentration of the residual innervation.

Increase in litter size is associated with an overall increase in milk-yield up to a limit beyond which the addition of further young to the litter is without effect.

It is inferred that there is a quantitative relationship between the neural stimulus of suckling and the endocrine response of the hypothalamopituitary system.
THE EFFECT OF HYPOPHYSECTOMY AND CORTICOTROPHIN ON THE RENAL SENSITIVITY TO ANTIDIURETIC HORMONE
Authors: BAUMAN J. W.
Published: December 2008

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR), renal plasma flow (RPF) and solute-free water reabsorption (TcH2O) were measured in anaesthetized intact and hypophysectomized rats and in hypophysectomized rats treated with corticotrophin (ACTH). GFR and RPF were measured by [14C]inulin and [3H]p-aminohippuric acid clearances. In agreement with previous reports, these two functions were found to be reduced by hypophysectomy. Infusion of vasopressin increased TcH2O in the intact rat but failed to produce a significant change in the hypophysectomized rat. Treatment of hypophysectomized rats with ACTH restored the effects of vasopressin on TcH2O. ACTH also increased the RPF of hypophysectomized rats to normal values, but only partially restored GFR.
THE ACTION OF AN ANTI-ANDROGENIC STEROID, 17α-METHYL-B-NORTESTOSTERONE, ON SEBUM SECRETION IN RATS TREATED WITH TESTOSTERONE
Authors: EBLING F. J.
Published: December 2008

An anti-androgenic steroid, 17α-methyl-B-nortestosterone was shown to reduce sebum production in spayed female rats treated simultaneously with testosterone. The sebum production was assessed by measuring the increase in the amount of ether-extractable hair fat over a period of 8 days immediately after washing the rats. Testosterone increased the secretion of sebum mainly by stimulating mitosis in the sebaceous glands and it was shown that the anti-androgenic steroid acted at this site, i.e. by suppressing mitosis. These effects were in contrast to the action of oestradiol which also depressed sebaceous activity, but appeared to do so by interfering with synthesis in the sebaceous cells.
BODY WEIGHT AND FOOD CONSUMPTION OF LACTATING RATS NURSING VARIOUS SIZES OF LITTERS
Authors: ÔTA K. , YOKOYAMA A.
Published: December 2008

Changes in body weight and food consumption during lactation in rats nursing various sizes of litters were studied. The rate of increase in body weight of the mother rats during the experimental period (day 3–14 of lactation) was very similar in mothers with different numbers (2, 4, 8 and 12) of suckling pups/litter. It is suggested that the weight increase of adult female rats during lactation is related more closely to the alteration of ovarian function caused by the suckling stimulus than to the enhanced food intake during this period. Both the food intake of mother rats and the daily gain in weight of litters increased as the number of suckling pups/litter increased and as lactation advanced. Linear relationships were observed between the logarithm of the litter size and both the food intake of the mother rats and the weight gain of the litters. The presence of a close correlation between the food intake of mother rats and the quantity of milk produced by them is suggested.
REGRESSION OF CORPORA LUTEA IN UNILATERALLY PREGNANT GUINEA-PIGS
Authors: OXENREIDER S. L. , DAY B. N.
Published: December 2008

Corpora lutea of unilaterally pregnant guinea-pigs regressed in the ovary adjacent to a non-gravid uterine horn while luteal maintenance occurred in the opposite ovary adjacent to a gravid horn. Severence of the utero-ovarian vascular and tissue connexions of the non-gravid uterine horn prevented unilateral regression during unilateral pregnancy and also appeared to cause asynchronous maintenance of cyclic corpora lutea that prolonged the length of oestrous cycles. Unilateral hysterectomy also prevented luteal regression during unilateral pregnancy.

One-third of the females in which the vascular and tissue connexions between the ovary and non-gravid horn were left intact did not contain corpora lutea in the ovary adjacent to the non-gravid horn. Most of the remaining females in the same treatment groups contained smaller corpora lutea in the ovary adjacent to a non-gravid horn than in the ovary adjacent to a gravid horn.

The presence of a sterile uterine horn tended to cause a decrease in the size of corpora lutea located in the contralateral ovary during the last half of pregnancy.
STEROIDOGENIC EFFECTS OF LUTEINIZING HORMONE AND PROLACTIN ON THE RAT OVARY IN VIVO
Authors: YOSHINAGA K. , GRIEVES SUSAN A. , SHORT R. V.
Published: December 2008

Progesterone and 20α-dihydroprogesterone were measured in the ovarian venous blood of rats in early pro-oestrus, late dioestrus, day 5 of pseudopregnancy, and in androgen-treated animals with persistent oestrus. Little progesterone was secreted in early pro-oestrus or persistent oestrus (0·1 μg./hr.), but the secretion rose in dioestrus (2·1 μg./hr.) and in pseudopregnancy (7 μg./hr.). The 20α-dihydroprogesterone secretion was low in the persistent oestrous group; in all the other groups it was 1·5–3 μg./hr.

Treatment with luteinizing hormone increased progesterone secretion within 30 min. in pro-oestrus and persistent oestrus, had no significant effect in dioestrus, and depressed it markedly in pseudopregnancy. It appeared to have no significant effect on 20α-dihydroprogesterone secretion except during pseudopregnancy, when it was depressed.

Treatment with prolactin produced no effect within 30 min.in pro-oestrous, dioestrous or pseudopregnant animals.
A NEW IN VITRO ASSAY FOR THYROIDSTIMULATING HORMONE
Authors: BROWN JILL , MUNRO D. S.
Published: December 2008

A new in vitro assay for thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is described. The parameter of TSH action is the discharge of radioactive iodine from mouse thyroid glands labelled with 131I in vivo. The assay is sensitive to human TSH and gave consistent results during 1 yr. without seasonal variation. A potent preparation of long-acting thyroid stimulator gave a dose-response line parallel with human TSH. Fresh human serum was toxic to the assay preparation so that circulating TSH levels cannot be measured.
PREPARATION OF GONADOTROPHIN AND GROWTH HORMONE FROM HUMAN PITUITARIES FOR CLINICAL USE
Authors: BROWN J. B. , CATT K. J. , MARTIN F. I. R.
Published: December 2008

A procedure for extracting both gonadotrophin and growth hormone from acetone-dried pituitary powder in a form suitable for clinical use is described. Gonadotrophin is extracted first and fractionated by ethanolic precipitation; growth hormone is then extracted from the residues by a modification of Raben's procedure. The yields and potency of the products are given with particular emphasis on their activities in man. The economy of the preparation of gonadotrophin and growth hormone from human pituitaries is discussed.
URINARY OESTROGEN EXCRETION AFTER METYRAPONE ADMINISTRATION TO PATIENTS WITH THE POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME
Authors: SFIKAKIS A. P. , IKKOS D. G. , DIAMANDOPOULOS K. N.
Published: December 2008

The 24 hr. urinary excretion of oestrone, oestradiol and oestriol was measured during metyrapone administration in six normal women, four patients with primary amenorrhoea, six patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (POS) and three patients with secondary amenorrhoea. In the six normal women the oestrogen excretion on the first and second day of metyrapone administration did not differ from the control values except for a slight, probably significant, decrease in the excretion of oestradiol on the first day. In the patients with primary and secondary amenorrhoea the results were similar to those in the normal women. In the POS group the urinary excretion of oestrogens increased by 11–120% on the first day of metyrapone administration and by 63–140% on the second day. Studies with metyrapone in three patients with POS during dexamethasone suppression and/or ACTH administration suggest that the increased oestrogen excretion after metyrapone depended on the usual feedback mechanism between the adrenal and the hypothalamo-hypophysial system.

Possible reasons for the absence of this increase in the normal subjects are discussed. It is concluded that the abnormal response to metyrapone in patients with the POS was not due to the amenorrhoea per se and the possibility that this response was related to the underlying disorder of POS is considered.
CHANGES IN THE DENSITY AND PROGESTERONE CONTENT OF LUTEAL TISSUE IN THE EGYPTIAN BUFFALO DURING THE OESTROUS CYCLE
Authors: EL-SHEIKH A. S. , SAKLA FRANÇOIS B. , AMIN SAFAA O.
Published: December 2008

The histological and functional changes of 31 corpora lutea of Egyptian buffaloes during the various phases of the oestrous cycle were studied. The volumes of the corpora lutea were calculated, the volume per cell, the cell volume and the volume of the intercellular spaces were estimated from transverse serial sections stained with haematoxylin and eosin, Mallory's triple stain or van Gieson's stain. The nuclear volumes were also determined and the cytoplasmic volume was calculated. The progesterone content was estimated using column absorption chromatography and a counter-current distribution system.

It was concluded that the luteal cells increase both in volume and in number due to mitosis. The luteal cells decrease in volume after the 15th day after ovulation, the cells lose their distinct outlines in the regressive stage and disappear completely in the corpus albicans. There was a parallel increase in luteal cell volume and progesterone content until the 15th post-ovulatory day followed by a decrease in the regressive phase and disappearance of the hormone in the corpus albicans. A highly significant correlation (r = +0·875) was found between the progesterone content and the cytoplasmic volume. Progesterone concentration/g. luteal tissue increased from the corpus haemorrhagicum to the mature corpus luteum, decreased in the regressive corpus luteum and completely disappeared in the corpus albicans.
OESTROGEN SYNTHESIS IN VITRO BY OVARIES FROM RATS IN DIFFERENT PHASES OF THE OESTROUS CYCLE
Authors: OAKEY R. E. , STITCH S. R.
Published: December 2008

Ovaries taken from rats in oestrus converted more [4-14C]testosterone to [14C]oestrone and [14C]oestradiol-17β than did ovaries taken at dioestrus. Little difference was found in the conversion of [4-14C]androst-4-ene-3,17-dione to [14C]oestrone by either type of tissue.

These results suggest that testosterone, rather than androstenedione, is an endogenous oestrogen precursor in the rat.

The ability of the rat ovary to produce oestrogen in vitro from C-19 steroids during dioestrus is discussed.
GEL FILTRATION OF OESTROGEN CONJUGATES IN BOVINE URINE
Authors: MIKLOSI S. A. , McCOSKER P. J.
Published: December 2008

A chromatographic method for the purification of oestrogen conjugates in bovine urine is described.

The sample is made 1·0 m in NaCl and applied to a 45 × 6·2 cm. column of Sephadex G-25. Elution with water results in a constant and reproducible retardation and simultaneous purification of the urinary conjugates. Authentic oestrogen conjugates and radioactive urinary metabolites were used in the experiments. The extent of purification and values for recovery are presented and the use of activated charcoal for preliminary decolorization is described.
METABOLISM AND TISSUE DISTRIBUTION OF NORETHISTERONE AND NORGESTREL IN RABBITS
Authors: KAMYAB SORAYA , LITTLETON PHORNPHIMOL , FOTHERBY K.
Published: December 2008

After injection of [4-14C]norethisterone or norgestrel labelled with 14C in the ethynyl group into rabbits, 45% and 57·4% of the radioactivity was excreted in the urine, mostly within 2 days. Although small amounts of radioactivity were excreted in the expired air of rabbits receiving norgestrel, little metabolism of the ethynyl group occurred. Radioactivity in plasma declined quickly after injection and 24 hr. later less than 0·5% of the dose remained in the circulation. Up to 5 hr. after injection large amounts of radioactivity were found in liver, kidney, intestine and bile; a large proportion of the dose appeared to undergo an entero-hepatic circulation. Although the concentration in fat and muscle was low the total amount in these tissues may approach 5%. The uterus contained a high concentration of radioactivity suggesting that this tissue may bind the progestins or their metabolites. By 24 hr. the amount of radioactivity in the tissues had markedly decreased. Small amounts of radioactivity crossed the placenta of pregnant animals near term and small amounts were found in the foetus and amniotic fluid. Within 3 hr. of the injection at least half of the radioactivity in the tissues was in a conjugated form and considerable metabolism of the injected progestins had occurred. Little, if any, norethisterone or norgestrel was present in the tissues. The metabolites of norethisterone were mainly polar compounds showing that hydroxylation of the steroid had occurred, whereas the metabolites of norgestrel appeared to be similar to the compounds produced by partial or complete reduction of the α,β-unsaturated ketone grouping in ring A.
THE INCORPORATION OF TRITIATED URIDINE IN THE GENITAL TRACT OF THE OESTROGEN-TREATED MOUSE
Authors: MILLER B. G. , EMMENS C. W.
Published: December 2008

The uptake of uridine in vivo into uterine and vaginal RNA after intravenous administration provides a sensitive measure of early oestrogenic effects in the ovariectomized mouse. The response of the uterus to a dose of 0·05 μg. of oestradiol increases rapidly to about tenfold at 8–16 hr., and returns to control levels by 32 hr. In the vagina the response develops more slowly, being maximal at 16–24 hr. The relative potencies of oestradiol, oestrone, oestriol, diethylstilboestrol and meso-hexoestrol tested by this criterion at 4 hr. were similar to those obtained in the 6-hr. water imbibition test.
THE EFFECT OF ALDOSTERONE AND ADRENALECTOMY ON THE ELECTRICAL POTENTIAL DIFFERENCE OF RAT COLON AND ON THE TRANSPORT OF SODIUM, POTASSIUM, CHLORIDE AND BICARBONATE
Authors: EDMONDS C. J. , MARRIOTT JANE C.
Published: December 2008

The effect of adrenalectomy on the increase of the transmucosal potential difference (p.d.) of the colon of the rat induced by Na depletion, together with the action of aldosterone on the p.d. and on colonic Na+ and Cl− transport, and K+ and bicarbonate secretion have been investigated. Adrenalectomy increased the Na+ content in the stool, an effect reversed by treatment with aldosterone. When Na+-depleted rats were adrenalectomized and maintained on cortisone, the elevated p.d. fell to levels below those found in normal rats. Aldosterone given intravenously (i.v.) in physiological doses increased the p.d. in normal, adrenalectomized and Na+-depleted adrenalectomized rats after a latency period of 80–110 min., and the p.d. tended to rise further when injections were continued for several days. The p.d. gradient along the colon after treatment with aldosterone was similar to that of Na+-depleted rats, the highest p.d. being at the distal end of the descending colon. Cortisol intravenously increased the p.d. but the effect was small in comparison with that of aldosterone.

Measurement of ionic fluxes in the descending colon of adrenalectomized rats showed that treatment with aldosterone produced an increase in Na+ and water absorption, and in K+ secretion, but had no effect on bicarbonate secretion. The effects of aldosterone on the transmucosal p.d. and ion transport were similar to those of Na+ depletion.
THE LOCALIZATION OF [3H]ALDOSTERONE AND [3H]CORTISOL WITHIN RENAL TUBULAR CELLS BY ELECTRON MICROSCOPE AUTORADIOGRAPHY
Authors: WILLIAMS M. A. , BABA W. I.
Published: December 2008

Microgram quantities of tritiated aldosterone or cortisol were injected into the aorta of rats. The kidneys were removed at various times after injection, and examined by light and electron microscope autoradiography. The mineralocorticoids or their metabolites were bound to kidney cells in amounts sufficient to give autoradiographs. Radioactivity occurred mainly in the proximal and distal convoluted tubules. Within these cells it was bound mainly to mitochondria and plasma membranes. The results are discussed in relation to the current theories of mineralocorticoid action.