[The use of stem cells in some rheumatic diseases]

Stem cells (SC) are characterized by the possibility of a potentially unlimited number of divisions, that are, its self-renewal and differentiation pot in all tissues of the body. The term "stem cells" was first used by the Russian histologist Alexander Maksimova in 1908 in relation to the hematopoietic stem cell (HSC - haematopoietic stem cells). SC, because of their ability to self-renewal and proliferation enormous potential, became the subject of numerous research around the world. These studies offer hope for improving the prognosis and optimization methods for the treatment of many types of diseases, including diseases of the developing autoimmune which include rheumatic diseases. Pain associated with the most common rheumatic diseases, like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, cause temporary restriction of efficiency, frequent use of sick leave and abuse of painkillers. Rheumatic diseases often have young people in the labor force, have a chronic condition, and despite of the treatment over time lead to permanent disability and even premature death. Therapy with stem cells, can become an effective alternative to standard therapies used so far. The results of the first studies on the use of stem cells are promising and warrant further work on their application not only in rheumatic diseases.

Supernumerary renal vessels: analysis of frequency and configuration in 996 computed tomography studies

BACKGROUND

Number, course and division pattern of renal vessels is highly variable. Variant renal vasculature is of high interest in nephrectomy for the renal transplantations, both in deceased and living donors. The purpose of the study was to analyse the frequency of supernumerary renal vessels in a large cohort of patients undergoing the multiphase abdominopelvic computed tomography (CT), as well as analyse the possible patterns of coexisting supernumerary arteries in veins.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective analysis of abdominopelvic CT studies within 1 year period was performed. In each study, number of renal arteries and veins was recorded. Course of left renal vein was classified into normal, retro- or periaortic. For statistical analysis of normal distribution data, t-Student test was used. Chi-square test was used for frequency of variant vessel distribution. Pearson correlation coefficient was used for the analysis of coexistence of supernumerary vessels.

RESULTS

996 patients were included in the analysis, male to female ratio: 481:515 (48%:52%). Mean age was 57.9 ± 14.7 years. Single renal arteries were observed in 73% of cases, while single renal veins in 95%. Circumaortic or retroaortic courses of left renal veins were observed in 10% of cases. Number of renal vessels has been compared in patients with and without supernumerary vessels. In patients with supernumerary left renal artery, significantly more right renal vessels were observed. In patients with supernumerary right renal vein, mean number of all remaining vessels was significantly higher.

CONCLUSIONS

Supernumerary renal vessels are a frequent finding in abdominal CT studies. Finding a supernumerary vessel should increase awareness of possible other supernumerary renal vessels.

Bilateral coronary artery to pulmonary trunk fistulae detected by coronary angiography and evaluated by ECG-gated SPECT myocardial perfusion imaging: report of two cases

Coronary artery fistulae (CAF) are anomalies related to coronary artery abnormal termination. This is a very rare congenital malformation accounting for about 0.2-0.4% of congenital cardiac anomalies, but in some patients it can be haemodynamically important. Single-photon emission computed tomography or positron emission tomography myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) using radioactive agents is widely used in clinical practice for cardiac ischaemia detection as a very sensitive and non-invasive tool. We are going to present 2 patients with bilateral CAFs to the pulmonary trunk without signs of the rest or stress ischaemia in MPI.

Common origin of left anterior descending artery and right coronary artery from right aortic sinus: presentation of rare variant

The authors discuss a case of 55-year-old man admitted to hospital with clinical symptoms and electrocardiac signs of myocardial infarction, who underwent invasive diagnosis and one of most rare coronary arteries anomaly was observed: common origin of right coronary artery and anterior interventricular artery (left anterior descending artery) from right aortic sinus. Anatomical variants of coronary arteries are rare amongst general population, ranging between 0.29% to 1.3% and such anomaly is found in 0.03% of all coronarographies and is responsible for 2.3% of all coronary variations. Knowledge about coronary arteries anomalies is helpful not only in making better diagnosis but also in making better therapeutic decisions.

Spatial Text Visualization Using Automatic Typographic Maps

We present a method for automatically building typographic maps that merge text and spatial data into a visual representation where text alone forms the graphical features. We further show how to use this approach to visualize spatial data such as traffic density, crime rate, or demographic data. The technique accepts a vector representation of a geographic map and spatializes the textual labels in the space onto polylines and polygons based on user-defined visual attributes and constraints. Our sample implementation runs as a Web service, spatializing shape files from the OpenStreetMap project into typographic maps for any region.

One year follow up in ischemic brain injury and the role of Alzheimer factors

Ongoing interest in brain ischemia research has provided data showing that ischemia may be involved in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer disease. Brain ischemia in the rat produces a stereotyped pattern of selective neuronal degeneration, which mimics early Alzheimer disease pathology. The objective of this study was to further develop and characterize cardiac arrest model in rats, which provides practical way to analyze Alzheimer-type neurodegeneration. Rats were made ischemic by cardiac arrest. Blood-brain barrier (BBB) insufficiency, accumulation of different parts of amyloid precursor protein (APP) and platelets inside and outside BBB vessels were investigated in ischemic brain up to 1-year survival. Ischemic brain tissue demonstrated haphazard BBB changes. Toxic fragments of APP deposits were associated with the BBB vessels. Moreover our study revealed platelet aggregates in- and outside BBB vessels. Toxic parts of APP and platelet aggregates correlated very well with BBB permeability. Progressive injury of the ischemic brain parenchyma may be caused not only by a degeneration of neurons destroyed during ischemia but also by chronic damage in BBB. Chronic ischemic BBB insufficiency with accumulation of toxic components of APP in the brain tissue perivascular space, may gradually over a lifetime, progress to brain atrophy and to full blown Alzheimer-type pathology.

Psoriasis and unreported excessive alcohol intake--a simple screening approach

Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated skin disease of complex aetiology. Alcohol overuse has long been suspected to contribute to psoriasis pathology, and the knowledge of individual's drinking pattern may be of substantial importance for managing the disease. Unfortunately, a number of patients fail to admit to their true alcohol consumption and there is no single sign, symptom or laboratory parameter adequate for alcohol abuse diagnosis. However, there are some laboratory findings that, when present, should raise physician's suspicion that alcohol may be a problem. The aim of this article was to present simple, widely available and relatively reliable laboratory markers that might effectively assist physicians in establishing patient's drinking status. A possible screening approach is illustrated by two distinct reports of psoriatic patients who initially concealed having the problem with alcohol.

Forecasting Hotspots-A Predictive Analytics Approach

Current visual analytics systems provide users with the means to explore trends in their data. Linked views and interactive displays provide insight into correlations among people, events, and places in space and time. Analysts search for events of interest through statistical tools linked to visual displays, drill down into the data, and form hypotheses based upon the available information. However, current systems stop short of predicting events. In spatiotemporal data, analysts are searching for regions of space and time with unusually high incidences of events (hotspots). In the cases where hotspots are found, analysts would like to predict how these regions may grow in order to plan resource allocation and preventative measures. Furthermore, analysts would also like to predict where future hotspots may occur. To facilitate such forecasting, we have created a predictive visual analytics toolkit that provides analysts with linked spatiotemporal and statistical analytic views. Our system models spatiotemporal events through the combination of kernel density estimation for event distribution and seasonal trend decomposition by loess smoothing for temporal predictions. We provide analysts with estimates of error in our modeling, along with spatial and temporal alerts to indicate the occurrence of statistically significant hotspots. Spatial data are distributed based on a modeling of previous event locations, thereby maintaining a temporal coherence with past events. Such tools allow analysts to perform real-time hypothesis testing, plan intervention strategies, and allocate resources to correspond to perceived threats.

Application of rapid prototyping techniques for modelling of anatomical structures in medical training and education

Rapid prototyping has become an innovative method of fast and cost-effective production of three-dimensional models for manufacturing. Wide access to advanced medical imaging methods allows application of this technique for medical training purposes. This paper presents the feasibility of rapid prototyping technologies: stereolithography, selective laser sintering, fused deposition modelling, and three-dimensional printing for medical education. Rapid prototyping techniques are a promising method for improvement of anatomical education in medical students but also a valuable source of training tools for medical specialists.

Cyclooxygenase-2 mediated regulation of E-cadherin occurs in conventional but not early-onset gastric cancer cell lines

Background: COX-2 and E-cadherin, involved in invasion and metastasis, are molecules critical for gastric carcinogenesis. A relationship between them is documented in non-small cell lung and prostate cancer. We present novel evidence of a relationship between COX-2 and E-cadherin expression in gastric cancer.

Methods: Using qPCR and Western blots analysis on celecoxib and PGE2 treated and untreated gastric cancer cell lines derived from tumours of the intestinal type (MKN45, MKN28, AGS3, MKN7) and immunohistochemistry of 178 gastric cancers on tissue microarrays (TMA), we examined the COX-2/E-cadherin relationship.

Results: Down-regulation of COX-2 by celecoxib led to up-regulation of E-cadherin mRNA and protein levels in conventional gastric cancer cell lines, whereas expression was down regulated in the early-onset gastric cancer (EOGC) cell line. Immunohistochemistry on TMAs of 178 gastric cancers showed no correlation between COX-2 and E-cadherin expression in the conventional or early gastric cancer groups.

Conclusions: The results suggest that COX-2 has an impact on transcriptional regulation of E-cadherin in gastric cancer and our findings further highlight the intriguing nature of EOGCs which appear to have a molecular phenotype distinct from conventional gastric cancer. In addition, our findings also suggest that reduction of COX-2 using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in gastric cancer chemoprevention may only be relevant for older patients.

Spiegelian hernia - - anatomy, diagnosing and imaging difficulties-report of 2 cases

Spiegelian hernias account for less than 1% of all hernias diagnosed in the adult population. The most important factors in the proper diagnostic process are detailed physical examination combined with imaging procedures. Two cases of Spiegelian hernias are presented. The anatomical background of the pathology, as well as diagnostic procedures and surgical treatment, is discussed.

The body constitution of patients and intubation scales as predictors of difficult intubation considered in relation to the experience of the intubator

The aims of the study were to identify factors that may result in difficulties in intubation, and to compare the results obtained when an experienced and when a less experienced anaesthesiologist was involved. The 96 patients included in the study were evaluated for difficult intubation according to the following scales: Mallampati, upper lip bite test (ULBT) and Patil. The mobility of the cervical segments of the vertebral column, the distance between the jugular notch of the sternum and the chin and the anatomical constitution of the body were other factors that were taken into consideration. Statistical analysis was performed in order to identify factors that may result in difficulties in intubation for an experienced and for a less experienced anaesthesiologist.

What do clinicians think of the anatomical knowledge of medical students? Results of a survey

Human anatomy is one of basic courses in medical education. It usually takes place during the first year of the medical school syllabus. However, the results of the course, if defined as profound anatomical knowledge, are not applied by the students until several years after the final anatomy examination. The aim of the study was to evaluate the anatomical knowledge of senior medical students. For this reason a survey was distributed among teachers responsible for clinical rotas. The results of the study were intended to give the answer to the question, "What do students remember several years after the anatomy examination?" as expressed by their clinical teachers. The questionnaire included four closed questions and one open question. The closed questions concerned general anatomical knowledge, whether the anatomy course should be extended and whether additional courses should be introduced and included a question about student knowledge of particular systems. The open question concerned ways of improving anatomical education. As a result of the survey it was observed that surgical specialists had a significantly lower opinion of the medical knowledge of their students than had medical specialists. Most of the suggestions for improving anatomical education were related to introducing clinical applications of anatomical knowledge.

Cytokine response in the postoperative period after surgical treatment of benign adnexal masses: comparison between laparoscopy and laparotomy

BACKGROUND

Cytokines are the main mediators of the inflammation and the response to trauma. The purpose of the present study was the comparative assessment in sera of patients with benign adnexal masses treated by laparoscopy or laparotomy of the following proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines: interleukin (IL)-1beta, IL-6, IL-8, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), and IL-10 in the early postoperative period.

METHODS

A total of 40 patients with benign adnexal masses were studied; 25 of whom underwent laparoscopy and 15, laparotomy. Blood serum concentration of IL-1beta, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-alpha, and IL-10 were measured by commercially available ELISA assays before and 4 h, 24 h, and 48 h after the operation.

RESULTS

Concentrations of IL-6 were significantly increased in both groups at 4 h, 24 h, and 48 h after the surgery; levels of IL-10 showed a significant increase 4 h and 24 h after the operation; an increase in IL-1beta levels was observed only after laparotomy; no significant variations were observed in serum levels of IL-8; the postoperative increase of IL-1beta, IL-6, and IL-10 levels was more pronounced in patients undergoing laparotomy than in those treated laparoscopically; length of the surgical procedure, amount of CO2 used, tumor diameter, age, and body mass index (BMI) of the patients did not influence the postoperative patterns of the studied cytokines.

CONCLUSIONS

Systemic cytokine response after operations for benign adnexal masses depends on the degree of the surgical trauma, and is less pronounced in patients undergoing laparoscopy.

The activity and immunoexpression of cathepsin D in rat male reproductive organs

Cathepsin D is a cysteine endopeptidase that belongs to the lysosomal enzyme family. The aim of the study was to evaluate the enzyme immunoexpression and activity in selected male genital organs in mature Wistar rats. The activity of cathepsin D was measured spectrophotometrically in homogenates of the testis, epididymis, seminal vesicle and prostate. Immunohistochemical staining was also performed in the ductus deferens. Enzyme activity was found in the following sequence: testis>epididymis>dorsal prostatic lobe>seminal vesicle>lateral prostatic lobe>ventral prostatic lobe. Although there were differences in enzyme activity between various organs of the male reproductive system, cathepsin D immunoreactivity was seen exclusively in the Sertoli and Leydig cells in the testis.

An unusual crossed course of separately originating left circumflex and left anterior descending arteries with concomitant anomalies found in multi-slice computed tomography

Coronary artery anomalies occur in approximately in 1-2% of the population. The split origin of branches of the left coronary artery is a relatively common anomaly, usually with no significant observable impairment of cardiac function. The application of multi-slice computed tomography (MSCT) for cardiac imaging is increasing and becoming, along with other techniques, a recognised method of examination of the coronary arteries. In the case presented we observed in an ECG-gated MSCT the anomalous origin and proximal course of the arteries of the left sinus of Valsalva. The ostiae of both coronary arteries were located unusually: the ostium of the LAD was found posterior to the ostium of the LCx. Because of this, the proximal part of the LAD crossed the proximal part of the LCx superiorly. Furthermore, muscular bridges were found in the middle part and in the first diameter branch of the LAD. To our knowledge, this is the first case of a crossed course of the LCx and the LAD to be presented in the literature. Applications of MSCT in coronary imaging are presented in comparison with other diagnostic imaging methods. The advantages and limitations of MSCT as a diagnostic tool for anomalies of the coronary arteries are discussed.

Selected biochemical parameters and ultrastructural picture of pancreas due to Ulinastatin treatment of experimental acute pancreatitis

Urinary trypsin inhibitor (UTI, Ulinastatin) is a protease inhibitor that has not been yet used in Europe in any experimental trial of severe acute pancreatitis. We have combined the experimental model of severe, hemorrhagic form of acute pancreatitis, and pharmacological treatment with a protease inhibitor. Male Wistar rats were divided into four experimental groups: healthy controls, operated, operated with experimentally induced acute pancreatitis, and animals with acute pancreatitis--treated with UTI preparations. Subjects in the last group were administered UTI intraperitoneally 1 h after pancreatitis induction in an average standard dose of 3000 units/animal. Additionally, four subgroups were created in this treated group, based on the UTI administration time--number of standard doses received: 2 h - 1 standard dose, 6 h - 5 standard doses, 12 h - 11 doses, 24 and 48 h - 15 doses. Statistically significant differences in the serum amylase and lipase activity between the UTI-treated and non-treated subjects were found. In the group of non-treated animals, there a profound destruction of cellular organelles was observed with a total degradation of nuceli, endoplasmatic reticulum and zymogen granules. However, in the UTI-treated subjects, pathological processes proceeded with the significantly slower pace and in much smaller quantities.

Activity of cathepsin B, D and L in rat cerebrum after cimetidine and famotidine administration

Cathepsins are lysosomal enzymes that are used a sensitive markers in various toxicological investigations. The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the influence of cimetidine and famotidine on the cerebral cortex, particularly on the activity of cortical cathepsin B, D and L in the frontal lobe of rat brain. The drugs were administered intraperitoneally, twice a day, for six weeks to male Wistar rats in two doses. The initial dose was 2.85 mg/kg for cimetidine and 0.285 mg/kg for famotidine. The second dose was 10 times higher. Control animals were injected with 0.9% NaCl. Half of the animals from each of the drug-treated and control groups were sacrificed on the 42nd day of the experiment. The remaining animals were raised for another 6 weeks without any xenobiotics, and sacrificed on the 84th day. The frontal lobe of the right cerebral hemisphere was taken for biochemical investigation. The activities of free and bound fractions of cathepsin B, D and L were evaluated spectrophotometrically in cortical homogenates. The activity of bound fraction of cathepsin D and L decreased significantly in animals exposed to the higher dose of cimetidine and sacrificed on the 42nd day. Also significant elevation of the free fraction of cathepsin L was noted in the same group of rats. Cathepsin activities were normalized during the next six weeks. No behavioural changes were noted among the observed animals. Unlike cimetidine, famotidine did not change profiles of the cerebral cathepsins.

Biochemical and immunohistochemical study on physiological activity and distribution of hepatic cathepsin D

Cathepsin D (EC 3.4.23.5) is a lysosomal endopeptidase physiologically present at very low concentration in different tissues. The aim of the study was to estimate the physiological activity and distribution of cathepsin D in the liver. Four groups of ten-week-old male Wistar rats were raised without xenobiotics and sacrificed on day 4, 42, 47 and 84 of the experiment, and their livers were taken for immunohistochemical and biochemical investigation. Immunostaining for cathepsin D was evaluated by light microscope. Activity of the free and bound fractions of hepatic cathepsin D was measured spectrophotometrically. Immunohistochemical staining for cathepsin D was positive in Browicz-Kupffer cells in some but not in all rat liver specimens of each experimental group. The staining pattern was cytoplasmic and granular. Occasionally the positive stained endothelial cells were also found. No activity of cathepsin D in hepatocytes was detected. The positive immunostaining was found in livers with high enzyme activity in the biochemical investigation. No significant differences in activity of the free and bound fractions of cathepsin D among the different age groups were noted. However, the higher, age-dependent activity (p>0.05) of the free fraction was observed in the youngest and the two-middle groups of rats that were sacrificed on day 42 and 47 than in the oldest one. The bound fraction did not reveal such changes. It could be concluded that there were no differences in the activity of hepatic free and bound fractions of cathepsin D in male Wistar rats of various reproductive age. The rat Browicz-Kupffer cells revealed the highest activity of cathepsin D.

Breast cancer--the diagnostic and therapeutic problem

The progress made in recent years in the diagnostics of breast cancer, the universal character of mammographic and ultrasonographic screening examinations and the growth of social awareness with respect to this disease have caused a great deal of diagnostic problems. Cases of big, ulcerating cancer tumours, which infiltrate skin have now become history, and are reported sporadically. However, physicians are now facing the problem, which is the diagnosis of 1-5 mm changes detected in examinations. The necessity to diagnose small tumours in combination with 80-90% mammographic sensitivity reported compelled clinical physicists to verify these changes with histopathological examination. In the cases when the clinical examination, the result of a mammographic examination and that of fine needle aspiration biopsy do not provide a coherent picture, a surgeon has to qualify a patient for tumorectomy with an intra-operative study. In the years 1997-2000, 173 breast tumorectomies were made. Patients with benign neoplasm (e.g. adenofibroma, papilloma mammae) or patients with arousing suspicion of oncological anxiety breast tumour were qualified for surgical procedures. Operations were performed in one-day surgery conditions and intra-operative examination was performed in every case. In cases of non-palpable tumours, which were visible in ultrasonography or mammography the changes were marked by an "anchor" in order to be removed and examined histopathologically. The operated patients were 17-89 years old. In the obtained 173 tissue fragments dysplasia benign was recognized in 47.98% of cases, in 42.2% adenofibroma, in 2.31% papilloma mammae, in 1.73% mastitis chronica, in 4.62% ca ductale invasivum and in 1.16% ca ductale in situ has been observed.

Estrogen-dependent activity of kidney lysosomal proteolytic enzymes

Drug-induced kidney injury is a potential complication of a number of medicaments. The wide-spread use of estrogens in the form of oral contraceptives and in the form of hormonal replacement therapy, has necessitated extensive studies on the biochemical alterations. The following effects of estrogens on kidney are discussed in greater detail with special regard to enzyme induction. The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of long-term activity estrogens on kidney lysosomal enzymes like cathepsin B, D and L. Female rats were divided randomly into eight experimental groups. Oestradiolum benzoicum was used for the purpose of this study. Estrogens were given i.m. one time per week for 8 weeks in different doses, respectively: E1--0.00075 g/kg b.w., one time per week; E1.1--0.00075 g/kg b.w. every three days; E2--0.0015 g/kg b.w.. one time per week. E2.1--0.0015 g/kg b.w.. every three days; E3--0.03 g/kg b.w.. one time per week; E3.1--0.003 g/kg b.w.. every three days; KO--untreated animals; K1--treated control, rats received oleum pro injection at the dose of 1.2 ml/100 g b.w. The activity of free and bound fractions of lysosomal enzymes, such as cathepsin B, D and L were assayed in kidney homogenates using spectrophotometric methods. Differences between various experimental groups were tested with ANOVA test. The activity of cathepsin B, D and L fractions showed significant changes compared to control groups. The observed changes were not characteristic in all the studied groups. The most important changes referred to the activity of cathepsin B and D. Differences were noted between the enzymes activity in animals treated with the smallest dose of estrogen and that in control groups. It was smaller in group E1 than in groups K0 and K1. The activity of cathepsin B was higher in group E1 than in control groups. There was no correlation between the dose of injected estrogens and the observed lysosomal activity changes. The changes in lysosomal activity were uncharacteristic.

The relationship between estrogen and the development of liver vascular disorders

The liver is central to the metabolic disposition of all drugs and foreign substance. Drug-induced liver injury is a potential complication of estrogen preparations. The primary estrogen-induced vascular disorders are peliosis hepatis and vasculitis. Peliosis hepatis has been described as a rare consequence of taking estrogens and contraceptive. This condition is characterized by the presence of blood-filled spaces. Vasculitis has been noted as necrotizing or non-necrotizing hypersensitivity and an inflammatory infiltrate involving all the wall of a vessel. Vasculitis is usually connected with the presence of increased numbers of eosinophils either in blood or tissues. The aim of the study was to determine the influence of estrogen preparations on liver vascular disorders. The experiment was conducted on female rats of Wistar strain with the initial body weight of 180-300 g/kg of the body weight. After acclimation period, animals were gathered in 5 experimental groups of min. 10 in the group. Oestradiolum benzoicum was used for the purpose of this study. It was given i.m. once a week for 8 weeks in three different doses: E1--0.0075 g/kg, E2--0.0015 g/kg; E3--0.003 g/kg of the body weight. Two control groups were designed: K0--the untreated animals, K1--the animals receiving the adequate quantity of oleum pro injection. Fragments of organ assigned for histological examination were fixed in 10% buffered formaldehyde solution and transformed into paraffin sections. Histological preparations were evaluated in the light microscope. The histological assays were determined using: hematoxylin-eosin, azan and histochemical paS (periodic acid-Schiff) stains. In the described experiment large inflammatory infiltrations and vasculitis (E2, E3) were observed. In the animals treated with higher doses of estrogens diffusely distributed infiltrations around spaces with bloody fluid inside were revealed. The lumen of vessels was dilated. Estrogens can be responsible for the development of vascular disorders described as peliosis hepatis. The observed changes were suggestive of drug related vasculitis. An increased awareness of peliosis hepatis may become an important symptom for a pathologist, especially in patients at risk.

Changes in glucose, cholesterol and serum lipid fraction levels in experimental diabetes

The objective of this research was to trace the changes in serum glucose, cholesterol and lipid fractions during progression of diabetes in rabbits. 89 male rabbits, New Zealand breed were used in the experiment. Diabetes mellitus was induced by a single injection of alloxan. On day 7 the glucose level in the whole blood was measured by a glucometer to confirm the presence of diabetes. From this day the time of disease was counted. The rabbits were divided into the following groups: Group 1--controls (n = 18), Group 2-21 days diabetes mellitus (n = 18), Group 3-42 days diabetes mellitus (n = 17), group 4-90 days diabetes mellitus (n = 19), group 5-180 days diabetes mellitus (n = 17). After above-mentioned periods blood samples were taken and the rabbits were killed by decapitation. The final level of glucose in the sera was determined spectrophotometrically by enzymatic method. The method of cholesterol measurement was based on oxidation of free cholesterol to cholesterol releasing hydrogen peroxide. Measurement of lipid fractions was based on indirect methods consisting in precipitation of specific lipoprotein fractions. Control rabbits revealed highly significant (p < 0.01) or significant (p < 0.05) correlation between initial and final cholesterol and glucose levels. It was not observed in diabetic rabbits. Highly significant correlation (p < 0.01) was found between LDL and total cholesterol concentration in 21 and 42 day of diabetes. Similar correlation was observed between HDL and total cholesterol concentration on 90th day of the course of disease. We concluded that significant disorders of lipid metabolism occur in the course of alloxan-induced diabetes in rabbits, manifested by total cholesterol level increase and changes in proportions and levels of serum lipid fractions.

Lipid and exocrine pancreatic ultrastructural changes due to experimental diabetes

The aim of this study was to establish if the changes in the ultrastructure of the exocrine part of the pancreas are correlated with changes in serum glucose, cholesterol and lipoprotein fractions during the progression of diabetes in rabbits. Diabetes mellitus was induced in male New Zealand rabbits by a single injection of alloxan into the auricular vein. On the day 7th the glucose level in the whole blood was measured and this day was designated as the first day of diabetes. Rabbits were divided into 5 groups: untreated control, 21-day diabetes, 42-day diabetes, 90-day diabetes and 180-day diabetes. The cholesterol, HDL (high-density lipoprotein) and LDL (low-density lipoprotein) levels were examined in the serum. The total pancreatic lipase activity was measured spectrophotometrically in the pancreatic homogenate. Histological specimens were examined under an electron microscopy. The glucose level increased significantly in all of the alloxan exposed animals. The significant elevation of cholesterol level was observed on day 21 and 180. The HDL level was increased (P<0.05) only on the day 21st. The LDL level and the total activity of pancreatic lysosomal lipase increased significantly on day 21, 42 and 90. Further dilation of granular endoplasmic reticular ducts and decrease in the number of zymogen granules were observed amongst exocrine cells. Fragmented mitochondrial and translucent matrix were also seen. Intensification of the pancreatic fibrosis was found on day 90. Microvascular changes were reported in exocrine cells after 180 days. Their nuclei were smaller with large bulges on the nuclear membrane, and the number of heterogeneous electron granules of zymogen further declined. We concluded that the intensification of ultrastructural changes of the exocrine part of the pancreas correlated with the changes of the pancreatic lipase activity, and glucose and lipoprotein levels.

Changes in pancreatic lysosomal enzymes activity as the potential factors leading to diabetic enteropathy

The aim of this study was to establish and quantify changes in the activities of total, free and bound fractions of pancreatic lipase, galactoso-6-sulphatase, beta-D-galactosidase and N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase in the course of alloxan-induced diabetes mellitus. Rabbits were divided into a control group and groups injected with alloxan on the 21st, 42nd, 90th and the 180th day, after which blood samples were taken and the rabbits sacrificed by decapitation. The pancreas was removed and the glucose level measured. Enzyme activities were assayed by spectrophotometric methods. The total activities of N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase and beta-D-galactosidase were the lowest on day 42 of the test, and the total activity of lipase was the highest at this point of time, as compared to the other periods of the study. We conclude that in the course of alloxan-induce diabetes activities of pancreatic lipase and sulphatase were increasing following the levels of glucose, whilst activities of beta-D-galactosidase and N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase were declining, being inversely correlated to the level of glucose and activities of the first two mentioned enzymes. Above alterations in activity of lysosomal pancreatic enzymes of alloxan induced diabetic rabbits may be responsible for some aspects of previously reported diabetic enteropathy and chronic complications, or may provide a mechanism for the pancreatic beta-cells to moderate their insulin content.

Changes in the activity of lysosomal enzymes in rat kidneys in the course of acute pancreatitis

BACKGROUND

The pathogenesis of complications of acute pancreatitis is an important subject of research for many experimenters. The aim of the research reported here was to evaluate changes in the activity of lysosomal enzymes in rat kidneys in the course of experimentally-induced acute pancreatitis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

70 male Wistar rats of reproductive age with a mean body weight of 300 g were included in the study. Healthy animals were used as a control group to determine normal values for the activity of renal lysosomal enzymes: Cathepsin B, D, L, Acid Phosphatase, N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase, Lipase, Sulfatase, and Beta-D-Galactosidase. Acute pancreatitis was induced by injecting a 5% solution of sodium taurocholate into the hepatopancreatic duct. The animals were divided into 3 groups: I - healthy rats - normal group; II - rats with acute pancreatitis evoked by the injection of 5% sodium taurocholate; III - rats with a 0.9% solution of natrium chloride injected into the hepatopancreatic duct. Groups II and III were randomly divided into 6 subgroups. At 2, 6, 12, 24, 48, and 72 hours after the induction of acute pancreatitis the rats were anesthetized and their kidneys used for biochemical investigations.

RESULTS

The differences in enzyme activity were statistically significant among the various subgroups of Groups II and III groups. The highest decrease in enzyme activity was found between 12 and 48 hours after the induction of the disease, followed by small increases up to 72 hours.

CONCLUSIONS

The monitoring of lysosomal enzyme activity can be used to evaluate the increase of kidney failure in the course of experimentally-induced acute pancreatitis.

Visualisation of diverticula of the upper part of the alimentary tract; comparison of roentgenologic and endoscopic techniques

Diverticula of the upper part of the alimentary tract, irrespective of their etiology, are frequently observed benign changes of the pharynx, oesophagus, stomach and duodenum. In the present work, patients of the II General Surgery Department of the Medical University of Lublin, with radiologically or endoscopically proved diverticula of the upper part of the alimentary tract, were examined. The presence of diverticula of such localisation was an indication for supplementary endoscopic or radiological examination. The localisation, size, diameter of the opening, mucosal relief of diverticula and its contiguity were checked and analysed. Our data suggest that both medical procedures are complementary to each other. All previously observed changes in diverticula of the thoracic part of the oesophagus and the infradiaphragm part of the alimentary tract were fully proved. The radiological examination gave a better view of Zenker's diverticulum, especially in short and obese patients. Sampling and better visualisation of the diverticula opening testify to the unquestionable superiority of endoscopy. However, precise evaluation by radiological process fully completes the diagnostic protocol. Both diagnostic procedures are usually supplemented by manometric examination of the oesophagus and superior and inferior oesophageal sphincters. This enables the accurate diverticula etiology to be stated.

The radioanatomical research of plural renal arteries

The aim of our study was to evaluate the physiological and pathological variations of plural renal arteries in individuals of various constitutional types. Data about sixty-six renal angiographies obtained post-mortem from 35 traffic accident victims were compared with 68 aortonephrograms of 35 randomly selected patients of the Medical Department. During the autopsy of the traffic casualties no major pathological traces were observed. Out of 35 medical patients, 19 were presented with no signs of renal artery diseases, 14 were diagnosed for stenosis of renal arteries and 2 for diabetes mellitus. Abdominal aortography with following selective angiography was performed. Out of the total of 35 patients examined by method of abdominal aortography with following selective angiography, plural renal arteries (PRA) were observed in 9 cases (25.7%), two of these having a double-sided PRA. Among 19 patients without angiography, signs of renal artery pathologies PRA were present in 5 cases (26.3%). This was also observed in 2 out of 14 patients with RA stenosis (14.2%), and in both diabetic patients. Among 35 examined patients, PRA were found in 25.7% (9 cases), in two of them PRA were revealed on both sides (5.7%). A total of 68 nephrograms was obtained in 35 patients (2 patients had one kidney only). PRA were present in 16.2% (11) of nephrograms. Six (25%) out of a total of 24 men had PRA. Among 11 examined women, PRA were observed in 3 cases (27.2%). Right-sided PRA were revealed in 6 out of a total of 35 right kidneys (17.1%) and left-sided PRA in 5 (15.2%) out of 33 left kidneys. Among 35 renal preparations taken from corpses of people who died from injures and had no renal or any other pathology, PRA were present in 9 cases (25.7%). PRA were counted in 9 cases (34.6%) of 26 preparations from corpses with advanced arteriosclerosis. Plural kidney arteries were met in 3 cases from 5 preparations taken from diabetic cadavers (60%). PRA were found in 21 (31.8%) cases out of 66 preparations examined by method of post vital angiography. PRA were noticed in 9 (28.1%) cases of 32 right side preparations, and in 12 cases (35.3%) of 34 left side preparations. PRA were observed in 11 cases (30.6%) of 36 male preparations, and in 10 cases (33.3%) of 30 female preparations. Due to the constitutional types of body: in picnic type cadavers and patients PRA were described in 12 cases (36.4%) of a total of 33, in mesomorphic type--in 8 cases (29.6%) of a total of 27, and in asthenic type cadavers--in 1 case out of 10 (10%). Total statistics showed that most often lower pole (50%) and upper pole (16.5%) accessory arteries were observed. Upper pole perforating arteries were described in nearly 22%, but lower pole arteries only in 4.4%. Double renal arteries occurred in 18.7%, and upper pole accessory arteries in 16.5%. Triple renal arteries were found very seldom (nearly 3%).

Acid phosphatase activity in different organs as a marker of acute pancreatitis

The aim of the experiment was to establish and quantify the changes in the activity of acid phosphatase in the pancreas, liver, spleen and kidneys during the course of experimental pancreatitis. The experiment was carried out on 65 male rats of Wistar strain, whose weight varied from 250 to 350 g. The animals were standard fed. They drank only water 24 hours before operation. The rats were randomly divided into three groups: A--intact animals group which were not operated and were used to mark initial biochemical parameters (15 rats), B--the experimental group of animals which were injected by retrograde way with sodium taurocholate into the common bile-pancreatic duct to induce acute necrotic pancreatitis (50 rats). After laparotomy an injection needle was inserted into the common bile-pancreatic duct via the proximal part of the duodenum (Aho's method). After 2, 6, 12, 24, 48 hours rats were anaesthetised again, and thoracotomy was performed by taking blood for amylase determination from the left ventricle of the heart. Then the animals were given an overdose of ketamine, and the organs were removed during laparotomy and frozen at the temp. of -20 degrees C. Alpha-amylase activity in the blood serum was determined by the enzymatic method. Acid phosphatase activity was assayed by spectrophotometric methods using a substrate which releases 4-methyloumbeliferol reacting with the enzyme. The authors concluded that the activity of membranous fraction of acid phosphatase changed non-specifically over the course of experimentally induced acute pancreatitis in rats, but statistically significant difference was found in the enzyme's activity during different periods of pancreatitis only in the pancreas and in the liver.

Temporary elevation of pancreatic lysosomal enzymes, as a result of the omeprazole-induced peripancreatic inflammation in male Wistar rats

Omeprazole is one of the substituted benzimidazoles, which is not free of side effects. The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of omeprazole therapy on pancreas. Omeprazole was administered intraperitoneally, twice a day, for 3 days to the male rats in 0.571 mg/kg b.w. and 5.71 mg/kg b.w. doses. Half of animals were sacrificed in the 4th day of the experiment. The remaining rats were raised for another 6 weeks, without any xenobiotics, and sacrificed on the 47th day. The activity of acid phosphatase, beta-galactosidase, cathepsin B, and L, lipase, N-acetyl-glucosaminidase, and sulphatase was evaluated. The slides of the pancreas were examined in light microcopy in hematoxylin-eosin, asan, periodic acid-Schiff (paS) stains. Statistical increase in total activities of acid phosphatase, beta-galactosidase, lipase, N-acetyl-glucosaminidase, sulphatase, and acute inflammatory infiltration in peripancreatic fat tissue without histological pancreas impairment, were observed after the higher dose on the 4th day of experiment. Histological picture and enzymatic profiles were normalized during the next 6 weeks. We concluded that intraperitoneal administration of omeprazole causes tissue inflammation in the peripancreatic lipid tissue and reactive elevation of some pancreatic lysosomal enzymes.

The effects of short-time caffeine administration on skeleton development in Wistar rats

The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of caffeine on skeleton ossification in rats. Caffeine was administered in Tween 80 solution, once daily, in oral bolus, during the whole second trimester, in three doses: C1--0.7 mg/kg, C2--7.0 mg/kg, C3--70.0 mg/kg. On the 21st day of gestation the pumps were delivered. The fetuses were fixed in Bouin's solution and subsequently observed for external and internal malformation or in alcohol for skeleton malformation. The skeletons were stained with alizarin red-S. The examination showed an insignificant (P < 0.05) number of skeleton malformations, external haematomas and any internal malformations.

Changes in the activity of some lysosomal enzymes and in the fine structure of submandibular gland due to experimental diabetes

The aim of this study was to establish and quantify changes in the activities of the some lysosomal enzymes and to determine the type of changes in the ultrastructure of the submandibular gland in rabbits caused during progression of diabetes. The experiment was conducted on 89 New Zealand rabbit males. Diabetes was induced by the intravenous administration of 10% alloxan solution at a dose of 10-mg/kg-body weight. On the seventh day after alloxan administration, the level of glucose in blood was determined. Rabbits were divided into five groups: intact (n=18), 21-day diabetes (n=18), 42-day diabetes (n=17), 90-day diabetes (n=19) and 180-day diabetes (n=17). From killed animals in each group, the submandibular glands were removed and fixed or stored. Enzyme activities were assayed by spectrophotometric methods using substrates (Sigma) which release 4-methyloumbeliferol when they react with the proteases. Fixation procedure was done according to standard methods. Semi-thin and ultra-thin specimens were prepared by use of clearly visible after 42 days of diabetes. Mitochondria were damaged, accumulation of large amounts of lipids in the intracellular spaces was observed. After 90 days the presence of vacuoli and swollen lysosomes were observed, some cells also contained myelin figures. After 180 days the greatest changes were observed in the blood vessels, which had thickened walls and were often occluded. We concluded that the total activity of acid phosphatase and beta-N-acetyl-glucosaminidase in the submandibular gland was correlated with the level of glucose but there was no correlation between total beta-galactosidase activity and the serum concentration level of glucose has been detected during course of diabetes. The activities of the free fractions of acid phosphatase, beta-galactosidase and beta-N-acetyl-glucosaminidase in the submandibular gland were higher than the bound fractions in all groups of rabbits. The changes in the ultrastructure of the submandibular gland were correlated with changes in serum glucose level and with lysosomal enzymes activities during progression of experimental diabetes in rabbits.

Branches of posterior cerebral artery vascularising visual cortex in man

In 180 brains it was found that the calcarine artery was the main branch supplying the medial surface of the occipital lobe. Also the accessory calcarine artery contributed to vascularization of the occipital lobe. This artery originated from the medial occipital, lateral occipital, parietooccipital, and occipitotemporal arteries.

Activity of cathepsins in rat's spleen due to experimentally induced pancreatitis

The aim of this study was to establish and quantify the changes of the level of cathepsin B, D and L in the spleen during experimental pancreatitis. The experiment was carried out in 115 male Wistar rats, randomly divided into three groups: intact (n = 15), injected with 0.9% NaCl solution into the common bile pancreatic duct (n = 50) and injected with 5% sodium taurocholate into this duct to induce acute pancreatitis (n = 50). After 2, 6, 12, 24 and 48 hours rats were anaesthetised, and blood was taken for amylase determination from the heart, and the spleen was removed. Alpha-amylase level in the blood serum samples was measured by enzymatic method. Cathepsin activity was established by spectrophotometric methods using substrates which form coloured complexes when they react with these proteases. The specific free fraction activity of cathepsin B, D and L in the spleen changed during the course of experiment, but there was no correlation between their activity and the intensity of pancreatitis established by serum amylase level.