bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Less acidic forms of luteinizing hormone are associated with lower testosterone secretion in men on haemodialysis treatment
Authors: Mitchell Robert , Bauerfeld Christian , Schaefer Franz , Schärer Karl , Robertson William R. 
Published: March 2008

SummaryOBJECTIVE Men with chronic renal failure treated by haemodialysis have raised levels of bioactive LH (B‐LH) and immunoreactive LH (I‐LH) but reduced B‐LH: I‐LH (B: I) ratio and testosterone (T) secretion. This study investigated the LH isoform distribution in serum from normal adult males and males on regular haemodialysis treatment.DESIGN Four blood samples (2 ml) were obtained at 15‐minute intervals from a group of men on regular haemodialysis treatment. These samples were part of a larger pulse profile series and showed no evidence of LH pulsatility. The serum was pooled for each Individual patient. Blood (10 ml) was also drawn randomly from healthy male volunteers. The sera were chromatofocused on a 4‐ml mono‐P column attached to a fast performance liquid chromatography system. This procedure separates the LH isoforms according to their isoelectric point. The pH gradient was between pH 7 and pH 4.PATIENTS The five men with chronic renal failure were aged between 18 and 40 years and had been on haemodialysis for a mean of 10 months (5–20). They were sampled the night prior to a dialysis session. The five normal healthy volunteers had never had any endocrine disorder diagnosed.MEASUREMENTS An immunoradiometric assay and a commercially available (Delfia) immunofluorimetric assay were employed for detection of LH In the sera and in chromatofocusing fractions. B‐LH and testosterone were also measured in the sera.RESULTS Hormone data (mean±SEM for normal and renal subjects respectively) were 15.5 IU/I±1.2 and 26.9 ±7.2 (B‐LH), 6 0 IU/I±0.3 and 16.5±4.8 (irmaLH), 5.7 ±0.5 and 13.6 ±4.8 (lluorLH), 25.2nmol/l±2.0 and 12.1 ±1.2 (T). The serum B:l ratios were 2.6±0.1 and 2.6±0.2 (controls, irmaLH and fluorLH respectively) and 1.7 ± 0.1 and 2.1 ± 0.1 (chronic renal failure group). Recovery of LH from the column was 111 ±12% (mean±SEM)by IRMA and 104 ±7% by IFMA for the ten FPLC runs. The median pi for the LH distribution measured by both assays was in the region 6.54–6.40 for subjects with chronic renal failure and 6.09–5.95 tor controls. Median pi was negatively correlated to the B‐LH:irmaLH (P<0.0001) and B‐LH:fluorLH ratios (P = 0.002) in the serum. Furthermore, the proportion of isoforms recovered in the pH region 6.25–5.50 increased with increasing T levels in the serum (P<0.004).CONCLUSION The distribution of LH in serum of men on haemodialysis is more basic than in normal men. The greater the proportion of more acidic LH species, particularly those with a pi of between 5.50‐6.25, the higher the ratio of LH bioactivity to immunoactivity and consequently testosterone levels.
Successful localization of an occult ACTH‐secreting bronchial carcinoid tumour with 111indium‐DTPA labelled octreotide
Authors: Tsagarakis S. , Giannakenas C. , Vassilakos P. J. , Platis O. , Belenis I. , Kaskarelis J. , Rontoyiannl D. , Thalassinos N. 
Published: March 2008

SummaryEctopic ACTH secretion due to occult carcinoid tumours is an occasional cause of ACTH dependent Cushing's syndrome. In many cases the ectopic source may be obvious, but sometimes no obvious source is evident, the so‐called occult ectopic syndrome. Due to their small size, localization of such occult tumours, particularly bronchial carcinoids, may be extremely difficult. Whole body CT and verious sampling studies have been used but are not always successful in determining the site of such lesions. We report a 40‐year‐old patient with the ectopic ACTH syndrome due to a 0.6‐cm bronchial carcinoid tumour which was successfully localized by 111indium‐DTPA labelled octreotide scintigraphy.
Hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism with hyposmia, X‐linked ichthyosis, and renal malformation syndrome
Authors: Martul P. , Plneda J. , Levllllers J. , Vszquez J. A. , Rodriguez‐Soriano J. , Loridan L. , Diaz‐Perez J. L. 
Published: March 2008

SummaryOBJECTIVE The aim of this study was the endocrinological, enzymatic, and genetic evaluation of a family with a complex syndrome associating hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism with hyposmia, X‐linked Ichthyosis and renal malformation.DESIGN Hypothalamic‐pituritary‐testicular function, offaction, steroid sulphatase activity, and morphological renal studies were assessed. DNA molecular analyses were carried out In all the patients.PATIENTS Two brothers and their maternal uncle showed the clinical picture of congenital Ichthyosis, hypogonadism, hyposmia and unilateral renal maldevelopment. MEASUREMENTS LH and FSH were determined by RIA basally and after GnRH stimulation, and the test repeated after a period of GnRH priming. Testosterone response to hCG was measured. Arylsulphatase C assay was performed as a measure of steroid sulphatase activity. DNA amplification analysis and Southern blot analysis of four Xp22.3 loci were performed.RESULTS Low levels of gonadotophins, basally and after acute GnRH, Increased clearly after GnRH priming. Low testosterone levels Increased promptly after hCG. Subnormal levels of arylsulphatase C were detected. Hyposmia and renal hypoplasia or aplasia were demonstrated. A large Xp 22.3 deletion Including the genes responsible for X‐linked Ichthyosls (steroid sulphatase deficiency) and Kallmann syndrome was demonstrated.CONCLUSIONS The absence of the gene encoding steroid sulphatase accounts for the X‐linked Ichthyosis in these patients, whereas the absence of the Kallmann syndrome gene accounts for hypogonadism, anosmia and for the single kidney found In two of the three patients.
Life events, daily stresses and coping in patients with Graves' disease
Authors: Kung Annie W. C. 
Published: March 2008

SummaryOBJECTIVE The contribution of stress to the aetiology of Graves' disease (GD) remains controversial. We have therefore examined life events, dally stress and coping in patients with this disease. We wished to determine whether the clinical presentation of Graves' hyperthyroidism is associated with preceding stressful events.DESIGN A prospective controlled study. Ninety‐five patients with newly diagnosed GD were compared to matched controls.METHOD A self‐reporting questionnaire recalling life events, dally stress and coping In the twelve months preceding the diagnosis.RESULT More Graves' disease patients than controls reported negative events (P<0·0005), whereas the number of subjects reporting positive events and neutral events were similar in both groups. Graves' disease patients also experienced more negative events (P<0·0001) and perceived them with higher ratings (P<0·0001). Each group had similar coping ability In terms of the number of coping methods and magnitude of utilization of these methods. Similarly, Graves' disease patients reported more dally hassle (P<0·0001) and had higher hassle scores (P<0·0001).CONCLUSION Patients with Graves' disease experienced greater psychological stress and adverse events prior to the onset of the disease. As stress may alter the immune system, it could play an important role in precipitating the disease in subjects predisposed to auto‐immune thyroid disorders.
Effects of quinagolide (CV 205‐502), a selective D2‐agonist, on vascular reactivity in patients with a prolactin‐secreting adenoma
Authors: Bodmer C. W. , Atkln S. L. , Savage M. W. , Masson E. A. , White M. C. 
Published: March 2008

SummaryBACKGROUND Quinagolide (CV 205 502) Is a dopamine D2‐receptor agonist which has proved effective In the treatment of prolactinomas, reducing both serum PRL and tumour size. Some of Its D2‐receptor effects are mediated via α‐adrenoceptors, which have a major influence on the control of vascular tone. The aim of this study was to examine the influence of quinagolide on In‐vivo dorsal hand vein vascular responses to noradrenaline In patients with a prolactinoma.DESIGN AND PATIENTS Seven female patients with prolactinomas (age 37 (28‐46) years), Intolerant of bromocriptine, were studied before and after 3 months treatment with quinagolide (0.75‐1.5 mg/day). Patients were otherwise disease free, were taking no other medication, and had been on no other medication (Including bromocriptine) for at least 3 months prior to enrolment into the study.MEASUREMENTS Vascular responses to locally infused noradrenaline were measured In dorsal hand veins using an established technique. PRL, oestradiol, FSH, LH, blood pressure and body mass Index were also measured before and after 3 months treatment.RESULTS Quinagolide significantly reduced PRL in all 7 patients (1795 (696‐4680) (mean (range)) vs 488 (290‐868) mU/l, P=0.001), with no effect on the other parameters, including mean arterial pressure (88 (2) vs 87 (4) mmHg, P=0.6). Vascular reactivity to noradrenaline was significantly increased after 3 months therapy: log10 dose estimated to cause 50% vasoconstriction (ED50) 1.37 (0.12) vs 0.85 (0.12) ng/mln (P=0.003; a lower ED50 indicates less noradrenaline Is required to constrict the vein by 50%).CONCLUSIONS Vasoconstrictor responses to noradrenaline were increased in all patients after 3 months treatment with quinagolide. Peripheral veins carry α‐adrenoceptors analogous to those of systemic resistance vessels. If this increased vasoconstrictor response In patients with prolactinomas was occurring in hypophyseal vessels, It would lead to reduced tumour blood supply. Quinagolide may therefore reduce tumour blood flow, which may be one factor responsible for its effectiveness In these patients.
Effect of daily low dose mifepristone on the ovarian cycle and on dynamics of follicle growth
Authors: Cameron Sharon T. , Thong K. Joo , Baird David T. 
Published: March 2008

SummaryBACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE The antiprogestin mifepristone has been shown to disrupt folliculogenesis and endometrial maturation and, therefore, has the potential to be used as a novel form of contraception. The purpose of this study was to Investigate further the effects of daily administration of a low dose of mifeprlstone (2mg) on the ovarian cycle and on the dynamics of follicle growth. SUBJECTS Six healthy female voiunteers were given 2mg mifepristone dally for 30 days following an ovulatory control cycle.MEASUREMENTS Follicle growth was monitored with transvaginal ultrasonography and hormonal measurements in blood and urine were used to monitor effects on the ovarian cycle. In addition, concentrations of cortisol and ACTH in serum were measured to assess the effects of mifeprlstone on the pituitary‐adrenal axis. RESULTS Treatment with mifepristone retarded the follicular growth rate In all women (P= 0.01). Ovulation was inhibited in 4 of 6 subjects and appeared to be mediated through an effect on the hypothalamo‐pituitary axis, as no surge of FSH or LH occurred. In these subjects the domlnant follicle continued to grow and developed into a persistent follicle. In two cases the persistent follicle remained functional and ovulation occurred soon after stopping treatment. In the remaining two subjects, the dominant follicle developed into a non‐functioning cyst (>30mm) which persisted for one month after the end of the post‐treatment cycle. In the two subjects who ovulated, the LH surge was delayed by 6 and 7 days but was followed by a luteal phase of normal length. There was no significant change in the concentration of ACTH or cortisol suggesting that treatment with mifepristone in this dose has little if any effect on the pituitary‐adrenal axis.CONCLUSlON These findings add further evidence to support the contraceptive potential of mlfepristone through effects on follicular development and on the menstrual cycle.
Long‐term effects of insulin‐like growth factor (IGF)‐I treatment on serum IGFs and IGF binding proteins in adolescent patients with growth hormone receptor deficiency
Authors: Wilson Kristin F. , Fielder Paul J. , Guevara‐Agulrre Jaime , Cohen Plnchas , Vasconez O. , Martinez V. , Martinez A. , Rosenbloom Arlan L. , Rosenfeld Ron G. 
Published: March 2008

SummaryOBJECTIVE The aim of this investigation was to study the effect of relatively high dose IGF‐I therapy given for several months, on serum levels of IGF‐I, IGF‐II and IGFBP‐3, and on IGF‐I pharmacokinetics In patients with growth hormone insensitivity due to GH receptor dysfunction.DESIGN AND PATIENTS Two adolescent subjects from Ecuador were treated with recombinant IGF‐I at a dosage of 120μg/kg s.c. twice dally, in combination with a GnRH analogue for 8 months.MEASUREMENTS Serum was sampled at baseline and at 3–8 months, for determination of IGF‐I, IGF‐II and IGFBP‐3 by radioimmunoassay, and for evaluation of IGFBPs and IGFBP‐3 protease activity by Western ligand blot and protease assay, respectively.RESULTS Peak serum IGF‐I levels ranged from 272 to 492μg/l. Mean serum IGF‐II levels were decreased concurrently with the increase in IGF‐I. Serum IGFBP‐3 levels failed to rise with prolonged IGF‐I treatment. There was no apparent change In the half‐life of IGF‐I during the treatment period.CONCLUSIONS IGF‐I administration does not increase serum levels of IGFBP‐3 or significantly alter IGF‐I pharmacokinetics.
Recombinant human insulin‐like growth factor‐I decreases serum lipoprotein(a) concentrations in normal adult men
Authors: Oscarsson Jan , Lundstam Ulf , Gustafsson BJörn , Wilton Patrick , Edén Staffan , Wlklund Olov 
Published: March 2008

SummaryOBJECTIVE Lipoproteln(a) is a lipoprotein fraction associated with atherosclerosis. The serum concentration of llpoprotein(a) has been shown to be mainly genetically determined but recently evidence for hormonal regulation has been presented. The aim of the present study was to Investigate the effects of insulin‐like growth factor‐I on serum lipoproteins, especially lipoprotein(a).DESIGN The effects of one week of IGF‐I treatment were studied in an open trial.SUBJECTS Ten healthy men, who participated In a pharmacokinetic study, were given recombinant human Insulin‐like growth factor‐I (40 μg/kg/day) as daily subcutaneous Injections.MEASUREMENTS Serum samples for measurements of lipoproteins were taken after an overnight fast before and after 7 days of treatment.RESULTS There was a decrease in serum lipoproteln(a) concentration (18.5±5.5%) in nine of the subjects, and a slight increase In one of the subjects with the lowest concentrations. Also serum apolipoprotein (b) (6.3±2.2%), serum cholesterol (10.6±1.8%) and serum triglyceride (14.8±4.8%) concentrations decreased. An unexpected finding was that fasting serum glucose concentrations Increased (13±4%).CONCLUSION Insuiln‐like growth factor‐I is involved in the regulation of lipoprotein(a) concentrations, which might have novel therapeutic Implications.
Low circulating IGF‐I levels in hyperthyroidism are associated with decreased GH response to GH‐releasing hormone
Authors: Ramos‐Dias João C. , Yateman Martin , Camacho‐Hübner Cecilia , Grossman Ashley , Lengyel Ana‐Marla J. 
Published: March 2008

SummaryOBJECTIVE Several abnormalities In the GH response to pharmacological stimuli have been described in hyperthyroidism. Both normal and high serum IGF‐I levels have been reported, as well as a decrease in IGF‐I bioactivity. We have evaluated the GH response to GH‐releasing hormone (GHRH) in hyperthyroid patients and the effects of hyperthyroidism on serum IGF‐I levels. The possible relations between nutritional status, thyroid hormones and IGF‐I levels were also investigated. We also studied the influence of long‐term β‐adrenoceptor blockade on the GH response to GHRH In these patients.DESIGN In 18 hyperthyroid patients and In 12 control subjects, GHRH (100μg) was administered as an i.v. bolus injection. Eight hyperthyroid patients and 8 control subjects received 50 μg GHRH i.v. Seven hyperthyroid patients were reevaluated after β‐adrenoceptor blockade. IGF‐I and albumin levels were measured Initially in all hyperthyroid patients and control subjects. Body composition was determined in 11 hyperthyroid patients and in a group of 33 matched normal controls.PATIENTS Hyperthyroid patients were compared to control subjects.MEASUREMENTS GH, TSH and free 14 were measured by Immunofluorometric assay. IGF‐I, total T3 and total T4 were measured by radioimmunoassay. Body composition was determined using a dual‐energy X‐ray absorptfometer.RESULTS The GH response to 100 μg GHRH in hyper thyroid patients was blunted compared to control subjects. The mean peak GH levels and the area under the curve were significantly lower in hyperthyroid patients compared to control subjects (11 ± 1 vs 27 ± 5 μg/l and 820 ± 113 vs 1879 ± 355 μg/l 120 min, respectively; P <0.01). IGF‐I levels were significantly reduced in hyperthyroid patients compared to controls (131 ± 10 vs 201 ± 16 μg/l, respectively; P <0.01). Ideal body weight, serum albumin levels and the lean body mass were also reduced In hyperthyroid patients. After β‐adrenoceptor blockade there were no changes in the blunted GH response to GHRH in hyperthyroid patients.CONCLUSION Our data suggest that the blunted GH response to GHRH In hyperthyroidism is apparently not related to circulating IGF‐I levels. It is possible that nutritional factors could play a role in the reduced circulating IGF‐I levels found In these patients.
A gonadotrophin dependent stromal luteoma: a rare cause of post‐menopausal virilization
Authors: Chico A. , García J. L. , Matías‐Gulu X. , Webb S. M. , Rodríguez J. , Prat J. , Calaf J. 
Published: March 2008

SummaryA stromal luteoma Is an uncommon ovarian tumour in post‐menopausal women, which presents rarely with hyperandrogenism and virilization. We present the case of a 64‐year‐old woman referred for evaluation of virilization which had developed over 5 years. Testosterone, FSH and LH were markedly inhibited following the administration of a GnRH analogue, suggesting a gonadotrophin dependent, testosterone secreting ovarian tumour, which could not be localized with Imaging techniques. Surgery revealed normal sized ovaries with no apparent lesions, but microscopic examination showed a small stromal luteoma In the right ovary and severe stromal hyperthecosis In the adjacent and contralateral ovarian stroma. We conclude that stromal luteoma is an uncommon cause of virilization in post‐menopausal women. This case illustrates, to our knowledge for the first time, that a stromal luteoma is not autonomous but is gonadotrophin dependent.
Studies on the biology and distribution ofLeptinus testaceusMüller within a community of mixed small mammal species
Authors: BUCKLE ALAN P. 
Published: March 2008

AbstractIn a mixed small mammal communityL.testaceuswas found to infestA.sylvaticusmore frequently than eitherC.glareolusorM.agrestis.Male and female rodents carried similar numbers of the beetle.Peak infestation onA.sylvaticusoccurred during spring and summer suggesting a single major emergence period.There was good correlation between the beetle index and the numbers of individuals ofA.sylvaticusinfested; this relationship resembled that found within certain host/ectoparasite relationships.
Reconstructing ancient ecological conditions from insect remains; some problems and an experimental approach
Authors: KENWARD HARRY K. 
Published: March 2008

Abstract

Analysis of insect ‘death assemblages’ from ancient natural and anthropogenic deposits can provide valuable information about conditions in the past but the theoretical basis of such investigations is weak, especially with respect to the quantification of habitats on archaeological sites.
Evidence is presented for the existence of a transported component, termed ‘background fauna’, in death assemblages, as well as the remains of insects derived from the immediate surroundings.
The background component is derived principally from airborne insects and from bird droppings and may seriously detract from the accuracy of reconstructions of past ecological conditions. Factors affecting its relative importance are discussed.
As well as including species from distant habitats, the background fauna may be biased in favour of species from temporary habitats.
Some solutions to the problems presented by the background fauna are discussed. A high proportion of a species or ecological group will usually be evidence that its habitat existed near to the deposit enclosing the fauna, although there may be exceptions.
The structure of the background rain of insects has probably altered with changes in town and countryside brought about by man. Attempts to recognize background fauna in ancient assemblages must take account of this.
Many ancient assemblages, especially if small, will give no useful ecological information.
Studies on a population of large termite mounds in Uganda
Authors: POMEROY D. E. 
Published: March 2008

Abstract

Two study‐sites near Kampala were mapped and all of the termite mounds within them were measured. Changes were recorded in the three succeeding years. A method was developed for estimating mound volumes from height and diameter.
Macrotermes bellicosus mounds reached a volume of about 2.4 m3 in 3 years after which they grew more slowly to a maximum from 4 to 6 m3. Growth in volume during the first 3 years was approximately linear and its rate did not vary seasonally, probably because growth is related to temperature which was nearly constant throughout the year.
M.bellicosus mounds had an average length of life of about 10 years, although colonies survived on average only 4 years. The corresponding figures for Pseudacanthotermes spp. were 5 and 2 1/2 years. Some mounds were recolonized after the death of the original colony.
Fresh earth was brought up at a minimum rate of about 10 m3 ha‐1 yr‐1 but more was lost by erosion and destruction and the populations of mounds were decreasing.
The number of ventilation shafts in M.bellicosus mounds increased with the volume of the mound. Many mounds, both dead and alive, supported vegetation.
Local opinion is that Pseudacanthotermes are harmless but M.bellicosus is regarded as a pest and attempts are made to destroy its mounds.
The role of predator‐prey size ratio in determining the efficiency of capture by Anthocoris nemorum and the escape reactions of its prey, Acyrthosiphon pisum
Authors: EVANS H. F. 
Published: March 2008

Abstract

Laboratory experiments are described which give the efficiency of Anthocoris nemorum in capturing its aphid prey Acyrthosiphon pisum. The efficiency of capture increases as the predator‐prey size ratio increases. The relationship holds through all the anthocorid developmental stages.
Aphid escape reactions are made up of three basic components; kicking, walking or dropping off the plant. These reactions are all related to the predator‐prey size ratio. Kicking is most successful at small ratios while dropping is most successful at high ratios. Walking occupies an intermediate position but has a generally lower probability of success.
An emergence trap for bark‐dwelling insects, its efficiency and effects on temperature
Authors: GLEN D. M. 
Published: March 2008

Abstract

A cloth cage with collecting bottles is described for trapping adult insects emerging from beneath tree bark in low densities.
The traps had little effect on temperature, although fluctuations tended to be slightly damped. They probably delayed emergence of adult codling moth, Cydia pomonella by a day or two only.
In a test of trap efficiency, all codling moths which developed to the adult stage inside the traps were recorded in the collecting bottles; a few larvae remained in diapause, and the proportion of these was greater in the traps than in an outdoor insectary, so that traps tend to provide a slight underestimate of adult numbers.