Blood Congestion Research Articles

Effect of Fluoxetine on the Pancreas of Adult Male Albino Rats and the Possible Protective Role of Omega-3: Light and Electron Microscopic Study

Depression is linked with a high risk of type 2diabetes (T2D). The affiliation between depression and diabetes might be correlated to depression itself and, or medications recommended. Significantly, the usage of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), the most commonly antidepressants increased the hazard of developing T2D. Nevertheless, the mechanism underlying this suggestion remains vague. Omega-3 had antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. So, there is developing evidence that consumption of omega-3 could be expedient. The present study was carried out to investigate the potential effect of omega-3 in the fluoxetine induced alterations in the pancreas of adult male albino rats. Forty adult male albino rats were divided into four groups. Group I served as a control group. Group II received a single daily dose of 300 mg/kg of omega-3. Group III received 24 mg/kg bw/day of fluoxetine hydrochloride. Group IV received omega-3 and fluoxetine as group II and III for 30 days. Light and electron microscopic investigations were carried out. Histological examination using H & E and Masson’s Trichrome stain were carried out. The insulin expression in β cells was evaluated using immunohistochemistry. Morphometric results were subjected to statistical analysis. Investigation of group III (Fluoxetine group) showed distorted exocrine pancreas with thick interlobular septa that contained dilated congested blood vessels, cellular infiltration, and fat cells. Marked shrunken of the pancreatic islets was observed. Masson’s trichrome stain showed increased collagen fibers deposition. Electron microscopic examination revealed that most of the acinar cells had irregular shaped nuclei with peripheral heterochromatin and wide capillaries. The cytoplasm of β cells had a variety of secretory granules. Most of them had an electron dense core with increased electron lucent halo however, few β granules were empty and coalesced. Omega- 3 supplementation improved the morphology of Langerhans compared to fluoxetine group. Importantly, some pancreatic duct cells revealed a positive reaction against anti-insulin antibodies. The current results demonstrated that fluoxetine harmfully affected the histological structure of the pancreas. Omega-3 diminished effectively some histological, immunohistochemical and electron microscopic changes in a fluoxetine induced pancreatic injury. Omega-3 could stimulates β-cell regeneration from potent islet progenitor cells present in the ductal cells and these might lead to repair of the functional accomplishments of the injured pancreas to a great extent.

The thermal effect of 2.45 GHz microwave radiation on rat testes

The study focused on the effect of microwave radiation at a dose which commonly does not lead to tissue heating, however, in the rat testes it resulted in accumulation of heat. Adult rats were exposed to whole body pulse radiation at a frequency of 2.45 GHz and mean power density of 28 W/m2, for 3 h a day for the duration of 3 weeks. Immediately after each irradiation, the body temperature and the testicular temperature were measured in the control and experimental animals. Samples for histological and immunohistochemical analysis were taken after the last irradiation and processed for light and transmission electron microscopy. An evaluation of spermatozoa motility was performed using computer-assisted sperm analysis. Although the body temperature of the rats was not elevated after the irradiations, the testicular temperature was significantly increased (P < 0.004). Testes of the experimental animals had considerably dilated and congested blood vessels and the seminiferous epithelium showed degenerative changes. The Leydig cells showed no obvious structural abnormalities. Transmission electron microscopy revealed ultrastructural changes in developing sex cells, Sertoli cells, and endothelial cells. An intensified immunoreactivity to superoxide dismutase 1 was found in spermatogonia and Leydig cells in the experimental animals. Results of the present study revealed a distinctly adverse effect of microwave radiation on the thermoregulatory capability and histological structure of rat testes as well as an oxidative damage of the tissue. The scientific knowledge confirming or denying the thermal effect of microwave radiation on living tissue is scarce and thus the present study may be regarded as unique and helpful to clarify the issue.

Levamisole reduces parasitic infection in juvenile pacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus)

Anthelmintic drugs are successfully used in aquaculture to control parasitic infections or infestations. This study analyzed the effectiveness of levamisole as an antiparasitic and its effect on the liver of juvenile pacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus). A total of 300 fish (180±1.27g; 16±0.4cm) were fed a diet containing levamisole hydrochloride (LHC) for fifteen days. A control group (T0) and four treatments were tested: T1 (100), T2 (150), T3 (300) and T4 (500) mgkg−1 LHC in quadruplicate (15 fish per repetition). Four fish per treatment (n=20) were euthanized by sectioning the spinal cord; the sample was forwarded for parasitological analysis. The gill arches and intestines were removed and preserved in formaldehyde 10% for identification and quantification of the parasites. For evaluation of the liver histology, four fish per treatment (n=20) were euthanized with benzocaine (100mgL−1) for liver removal. In intestines and gills, we identified the parasites Rondonia rondoni (Nematoda, Atractinae) and Anacanthorus penilabiatus (Monogenoidea, Dactylogyridae), respectively. Both were at high prevalence and intensity of infection and infestation, respectively. The 300mgkg−1 LHC treatment reduced the infection by R. rondoni but not the infestation by A. penilabiatus. Concentrations of 150 and 300mgkg−1 LHC caused moderate liver changes, and no changes were observed in fish treated with 100mgkg−1 LHC. The highest concentration of LHC (500mgkg−1) induced a high occurrence of sinusoid dilation, blood congestion and leukocyte infiltration in fish liver. Our results indicate that LHC (300mgkg−1) was effective in controlling the infection by R. rondoni and caused moderate histological changes in pacu liver.

The influence of PEEP and positioning on central venous pressure and venous hepatic hemodynamics in patients undergoing liver resection.

In order to assess the occurrence of blood congestion in the liver during liver resection, we aimed to evaluate the influence of a positive-end-expiratory-pressure (PEEP) and positioning of patients on central venous pressure (CVP) and venous hepatic blood flow parameters. We further analyzed correlations between CVP and venous hepatic blood flow parameters. In 20 patients scheduled for elective liver resection we measured CVP and quantified venous hepatic hemodynamics by ultrasound assessment of flow-velocity and diameter of the right hepatic vein and the portal vein after equilibration following these maneuvers: M1: 0° supine position, PEEP 0cmH2O; M2: 0° supine position, PEEP 10cmH2O; M3: 20° reverse-trendelenburg position; PEEP 10cmH2O; M4: 20° reverse-trendelenburg position, PEEP 0cmH2O. Changing from supine to reverse-trendelenburg position led to a significant decrease in CVP (M3 5.95 ± 2.06 vs. M1 7.35 ± 2.18mmHg and M2 8.55 ± 1.79mmHg). A PEEP of 10cmH2O and reverse-trendelenburg position led to significant reduction of systolic (VsHV) and diastolic (VdHV) flow-velocities of the right hepatic vein (VsHV M3 19.96 ± 6.47 vs. M1 27.81 ± 11.03cm s-1;VdHV M3 14.94 ± 6.22 vs. M1 20.15 ± 10.34cm s-1 and M2 20.19 ± 13.19cm s-1) whereas no significant changes of flow-velocity occurred in the portal vein. No correlations between CVP and diameters or flow-velocities of the right hepatic and the portal vein were found. Changes of central venous pressure due to changes of PEEP and positioning were not correlated with changes of venous hepatic blood flow parameters as measured after equilibration. Strategies aiming for low central venous pressure cannot be supported by these results. However, before ruling out low-CVP-strategies during liver resections these results should be confirmed by further studies.

Histomorphometric analysis of stomach walls alternation under conditions of general body dehydration.

Background. Changes of the composition of food and beverages intake by modern humans do not fulfill the nutritious, energetic and water needs of the body. This causes rapid growth of gastrointestinal diseases. The stomach is particularly susceptible to the influence of external factors. Water-salt metabolism disorders cause structural and functional alternations of the stomach as one of the digestive organs. Objective. The present study was conducted to identify changes of the fundus of the stomach wall of the rats under condition of general body dehydration of different severity level. Methods. The object of this research was a group of 29 adult white male laboratory rats with average weight of 150-170 g. The control group comprised of 7 rats which had the usual water intake in the course of the experiment. Light dehydration occurred on the 3rd day of the experiment, medium dehydration happened on the 6th day and severe dehydration – on the 9th day. The animals were sacrificed on the days stated above by means of euthanasia with anesthetic ethers. Sampling and fixation were carried out in accordance with the established procedures. To examine the structural components the histologic sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin stain, using Van Gieson's staining and Mallory staining. Morphometric analysis included defining of the thickness of stomach walls of the animals of all the groups. Results. On the 3rd day from the experiment launch (mild dehydration) there was observed a fair decrease in the average layer thickness of the surface epithelium as well as other components of the stomach walls as compared to the results of the intact group of animals. Mallory staining determined a major thinning of the mucous layer on the surface of the gastric mucosa as well as mucus presence in cytoplasm of mucous cells. On the 6th day of the experiment (moderate dehydration) the average layer thickness of surface epithelium decreased compared to the control group. There was a tendency of thinning of the stomach wall thickness and all of its structural components as compared to the intact animal group. Mucous membrane had erosions which looked like surface defects on the gastric folds. On the 9th day of the monitoring (severe dehydration) a considerable decrease of thickness index of all of the gastric wall components. This was accompanied by irreversible dystrophic and necrobiotic cell changes mainly in the gastric glands necks and bodies which lead to total cytolysis. There is reported moderate vascular blood congestion, haemorheologic disorders which manifest themselves as stasis and thrombosis of microcirculatory bloodstream vessels. Conclusion. The obtained results indicate thinning of stomach walls, irreversible dystrophic changes and partial loss of gland cells function as well as local circulation failure and haemorheologic changes in microvascular vessels which progress from mild to severe general dehydration.

Acute heart failure caused by mechanical valve leaflet dislodgment at the mitral position

A 46-year-old woman was transferred to the hospital by ambulance for sudden dyspnoea and frothy blood-streaked sputum with cardiogenic shock, who has taken mitral valve replacement (MVR) using a mechanical valve (Edward TEKNA, 29 mm) at the age of 34 due to severe mitral regurgitation. Chest radiography revealed marked blood congestion ( Panel A ). Because her vital sign was …

A case of a giant cell myocarditis that developed massive left ventricular thrombus during percutaneous cardiopulmonary support.

BackgroundGiant cell myocarditis, characterized by infiltration of multinucleated giant cells in the myocardium, is a rare type of myocarditis. It often progresses rapidly into fulminant heart failure and indicates a poor prognosis. When a patient with giant cell myocarditis develops into severe myocarditis presenting with a cardiogenic shock, we should use a percutaneous cardiopulmonary support (PCPS), which could occur complications. We experienced a patient with giant cell myocarditis, who developed left ventricular thrombus formations during the circulation support therapy with PCPS for cardiogenic shock.Case presentationA 60-year-old man who developed a cardiogenic shock was transferred to our hospital. After the admission, inotropic agents were increased and an intra-aortic balloon pumping was started. But these therapies did not improve his hemodynamic status. He was placed PCPS. Then, he underwent endomyocardial biopsy and was diagnosed with giant cell myocarditis. On the next morning, he developed complete atrioventricular block, and subsequently, thrombus formations occurred in his left ventricular outlet tract and Valsalva sinus despite an anticoagulant therapy. Thereafter, we intensified the anticoagulant therapy to prevent further thrombus formation, but he developed an intracranial hemorrhage. He did not recover from heart failure and died 16 days after the admission.ConclusionsWe present a patient with giant cell myocarditis who developed widespread thrombosis in the left ventricle during the circulatory support with PCPS, despite anticoagulant therapy. In this case, decreased left myocardial contractility caused by giant cell myocarditis and increased left ventricular afterload by the retrograde perfusion from the PCPS induced the thrombotic tendency and congestion in the left ventricle. In addition, he developed complete atrioventricular block, which reduced the left ventricular ejection and enhanced the thrombus formation. Because patients with giant cell myocarditis have a low probability of spontaneous recovery, heart transplantation or ventricular assist device implantation may be required for circulatory support. We should establish mechanical circulatory support rapidly to improve the prognosis of patients with giant cell myocarditis. Moreover, a ventricular assist device, which can prevent both ventricular congestion and retrograde blood flow, might be suitable to prevent complications as this case.

Cellular stress and histopathological tools used as biomarkers in Oreochromis mossambicus for assessing metal contamination.

In the present study, we have analyzed various biochemical and histopathological biomarkers in the Oreochromis mossambicus collected from 18 sites at Bhima River. The biochemical biomarkers viz. antioxidative enzymes in muscle viz. catalase, SOD, and GST, glycolytic enzymes in kidney viz. LDH and MDH, protein metabolic enzymes in liver, gill, brain, gonad and muscle viz. ALT and AST, neurotransmitter enzymes in muscle AChE, lipid peroxidation and histopathology in the liver and gill have been evaluated. The oxidative biomarkers, glycolytic enzymes, protein metabolic enzymes and lipid peroxidation were significantly (p<0.01) higher and AChE in muscle were significantly inhibited (p<0.01) in fishes from different sampling sites. The histopathology of the liver and gill were altered at different sampling sites. The liver histopathology showed hepatocytes vacuolization, haemorrhage, karyokinesis, necrosis, pyknotic nuclei, dilation of sinusoids and hepatocyte granular degeneration and in the gill histopathology showed distal lamellar gill tissue, diffuse epithelial hyperplasia and multifocal mucus cell hyperplasia, extensive edema of epithelial cells, blood congestion and edema in secondary lamellae. All the indicators are giving strong signals for contamination of the aquatic water bodies. The Bhima River is surrounded by several cities and agriculture land indicates that vigorous industrial activity coupled with intensive use of chemicals in agricultural practices may held. Therefore, based on our results, we could recommend that the investigated tissue and cell alterations may be successfully applied as reliable biomarkers for monitoring contaminated freshwater ecosystems. This study suggests that, the importance of antioxidative enzymes, cellular biomarkers, AChE, and histopathology used as biomarkers in aquatic ecosystem biomonitoring.

THE PROTECTIVE ROLE OF FLAXSEED LIGNAN IN MALE RABBITS WITH HIGH-FAT DIET: HISTOPATHOLOGICAL STUDY

Objective: The objective of the study was to investigate the effect of dietary flaxseed-derived lignan supplement as anti-hyperlipidemic (fatty liver changes) on rabbit liver.Methods: Rabbits were assigned randomly into three groups (five rabbits for each group): group-1, normal diet (negative control); group-2, 1.6 % cholesterol diet for 30 d (positive control) and group-3, 1.6 % cholesterol for 30 d then gave 40 mg/kg/day of pure flax lignan for 14 d.Results: Marked proliferation of fibrous connective tissue infiltrated with mononuclear cells was recorded; congested dilated of sinusoids and fibrosis in the portal area around the proliferation of bile ducts and congested portal blood vessels with the proteinous material in the lumen of bile ducts were also recorded. In other sections, the liver showed large necrotic area replacement with RBCs as well as enlarged foamy hepatocytes with mononuclear cells in narrowing sinusoids were seen.Conclusion: From the results of this study we can conclude that lignan has been used successfully in decreasing the inflammatory cells in congested blood vessels and sinusoids and has decreased the inflammatory cells infiltration in moderate fibrosis in the portal area around the bile ducts of rabbit liver tissue.

Lethal and sublethal effects of a methomyl-based insecticide in Hoplobatrachus rugulosus.

The aim of this study was to investigate the lethal and sublethal toxicity of a methomyl-based insecticide in Hoplobatrachus rugulosus, as methomyl-based insecticides are applied in massive amounts and agrochemicals have effects on the decline in amphibian populations. To evaluate the toxic effects of methomyl from agricultural application, a methomyl-based insecticide containing 40% methomyl was selected. The median lethal concentration of 96 hours of methomyl exposure was 8.69 ppm for H. rugulosus tadpoles. The lethal concentration also produced severe histological damage in the livers and kidneys of the exposed tadpoles. The sublethal concentration used for methomyl was 144 ppb during the metamorphosis period. It was found that the sublethal concentration of the methomyl compound could decrease growth, metamorphosis time, and size, disturb biochemical parameters, and produce histological damage. In livers, methomyl effects increased oxidative stress and dramatically decreased the glycogen level of the treated froglets. Mononuclear infiltration, blood congestion, amorphous substances, and hepatocytes vacuolization were observed throughout liver tissue. The methomyl-based insecticide also increased oxidative stress and decreased nitric oxide levels in the kidneys of the exposed froglets. Renal tissue damage including blood congestion, amorphous substances, and Bowman’s capsule spaces reduction were found in the methomyl exposure group. The methomyl compound also produced vacuoles in various stages of oocytes, but no histological damage was found in testicular tissue. Our results indicated strong toxic effects of the methomyl-based insecticide on H. rugulosus, a broadly tolerant anuran.

Light and electron microscopic study on the effect of ketoconazole on the liver of adult male albino rats

Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the structural, ultrastructural, and biochemical changes in albino rats' liver treated with different doses and durations of ketoconazole and the possible recovery after cessation of treatment. Background Ketoconazole is an imidazole drug commonly used in treatment of fungal infection. It induces variable degree of hepatotoxicity. Materials and methods Fifty adult male albino rats were used in this study. The rats were divided into five groups. Group 1 was the control group. Group II (low dose treated) included 10 rats treated with ketoconazole at a dose of 40 mg/kg body weight orally for 7 days. Group III (high dose treated) included 10 rats treated with ketoconazole at a dose of 100 mg/kg body weight orally for 14 days. Group IV (arrested low dose) included 10 rats treated with low dose ketoconazole for 7 days followed by cessation of treatment for 7 days. Group V (arrested high dose) included 10 rats treated with high dose ketoconazole for 14 days followed by cessation of treatment for 14 days. At the end of each experimental period, animals were killed, blood samples were collected for biochemical study, and liver tissue samples were obtained for histological study. Results Ketoconazole-treated rats showed destructive changes of liver tissue in the form of marked congested dilated blood vessels, hepatocyte necrosis and complete tissue loss, periportal fibrosis, and elevated serum transaminase. However, nearly complete recovery of liver tissue and improvement in serum enzymes occurred among those treated with low dose, whereas those treated with high dose still showed persistence of some changes. Conclusion Ketoconazole induced marked histological changes in the liver tissue especially with high dose.

EFFECT OF MUSIC AND NOISE ON GROWTH AND MATURATION IN FEMALE ALBINO RAT

Background:Noise stress is implicated in various illnesses of human, and it is responsible for increased morbidity associated with modern life style. Music induces emotions which are often accompanied by physiological reactions. Objective:Investigating the effect of light music and noise on growth and maturation from weaning to puberty in female rat with studying the histological structuresof pituitary, thyroid and ovaries. Material and Methods:Fifty animals were used in this work and divided into five equal groups: ● Control group. ● Rats exposed to noise for 60 days (over 90db, 1h/day). ● Rats exposed to music for 60 days (1h/day). ● Rats exposed to music then noise for 60days (2h/ day). ● Rats exposed to noise then music for 60days (2h/ day). At the end of experiment, serum was obtained from the rats during the di-estrous phase for determination of: 1. Growth hormone. 2. TSH level. 3. Gonadotrophic hormones (FSH, LH). 4. Prolactin hormone. 5. Leptin hormone. Histopathological study for pituitary, thyroid and ovaries were done. Results: This study revealed that noise caused significant decrease in gonadotrophic hormones (LH, FSH) and TSH, with significant increase in serum leptin without any changes in both growth and prolactin hormones. In addition, it produced significant pathological changes in pituitary, thyroid, ovaries and uterus. These changes included congested dilated blood sinusoids and loss of normal cellular arrangement. On the other hand, music caused insignificant changes in gonadotrophic hormones (LH, FSH) and TSH levels, with significant increase in leptin hormone without any changes in both growth and prolactin hormones levels. In addition, it produced insignificant pathological changes in pituitary, thyroid and ovaries as compared with the control group. Conclusions: Exposure to noise stress could affect the process of reproduction but does not affect the process of growth. In addition, listening to light music does not disturb the process of reproduction or growth. Where there was an equilibrium in biochemical and histological results.

Ameliorating Effect of L-Carnitine on Chromium-Induced Reproductive Toxicity in Male Mice

The effect of administration of potassium dichromate to male mice at a dose of 400 ppm in drinking water for 8 weekson the reproductive system was studied. Epididymal sperm count, motility, morphology and viability were investigated. The antioxidant status of testes was also studied. Serum testosterone level was measured and histopathological alterations in brain and testis were recorded. It has been demonstrated that chromium administration reduced sperm count and progressive motility while increased the number of immotile sperm. The percentages of normal sperm morphology and viability were reduced. Testicular malondialdehyde (MDA) level increased while reduced glutathione (GSH) concentration was reduced. The activities of testicular superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase (GR) and catalase (CAT) were inhibited. Serum testosterone level decreased as a consequence of chromium intoxication. Histopathological findings revealed chromatolysis and sever loss of Purkinje cells in cerebellum. The cerebrum showed congested blood vessels with perivascular cuffing, increased number of glia cells, neuronophagia and diffuse vacuolation. The testis showed sever necrosis and loss of spermatocytes with wavy basement membrane of seminiferous tubules, sever congested blood vessels with mononuclear cells infiltration in the interstitial tissue, presence of some desquamated cells in the lumen of seminiferous tubule and vacuolation of the remaining spermatocytes. The toxic effects of chromium on the sperm parameters, testis and brain were ameliorated by daily co-administration of L-carnitine orally at a dose of 200 mg/kg body weight. This protective effect of L-carnitine may be attributed to its antioxidant activity as indicated by improvement of GSH level and activities of testicular SOD, GR, and CAT together with reduced MDA concentration.

Histo Toxic and Pathologicl Study of Tamoxifen Citrate on The Kidney of Female Rats

we toke 32 laboratory female rats (Rattus norvegicus) sexually mature 16 weeks age and 200±50 gm in weight, were used, divided to four groups control, low dose, intermediate dose and high dose, later administration by oral gavage tamoxifen citrate for three months 50mg/kg low dose,100mg/kg intermediate dose and 200mg/kg high dose. after that the animals killed, tissue were taken fixed in 10% formalin, section prepares and stained with hematoxilin and eosin in addition special stains for connective tissue by Mallory was done. Histopathological result shoed as the kidney with moderate vacuolated subcapsular cortical tubules,dilated tubules in inner cortex and positive Mallory blue stain collagine fibers around congested blood vessels were seen. Finally it appears that subcabsuler cortical tubules (proximal convulated tubules)as the target toxic effect of tamoxifen citrate in the kidney. Keywords: histopathology, toxicity, tamoxifen, in rats I Introduction Tamoxifen is a drug that has been in worldwide use for the treatment of anti estrogen receptor (ER)- positive breast cancer for over 30 years; it has been used in both the metastatic and adjuvant setting (Matteo et al.,2012). At present, tamoxifen is the only proven oral agent for the adjuvant hormonal treatment of hormone receptor positive breast cancer in premenopausal women (Colleoni et al., 2006), and it can be used in both pre- and postmenopausal women who are at increased risk of breast cancer (Fisher et al.,2005). The concentrations of TAM was detected 2-9-Fold higher in kidneys, than the serum levels. Similar results have been reported following long term TAM administration both in human and animals, Tissue accumulation of TAM may be related to the presence of the anti estrogenic binding- sites (AEBS) in the tissue (Fronson et al .,1973). in the Tamoxifen treated the kidney was extensively degenerated with severe vasocongestion and edema in the renal parenchyma and also wide dilation in the Bowman's capsule. In most areas the Bowman's capsule lost its normal morphology(Sanjeev et al.,2014). The tamoxifen increased incidence of hypernephromas in DEN- initiated rats (Wolf and Jordan, 1992).

Acute and chronic toxicity of the benzoylurea pesticide, lufenuron, in the fish, Colossoma macropomum

Lufenuron is a benzoylurea insecticide that interfere in chitin synthesis in insects. Although lufenuron is widely used in agriculture and aquaculture, rare are studies described that relates to possible toxic effects in fish. This work aimed to evaluate acute and chronic toxic effects of benzoylurea pesticide (lufenuron) on biological parameters of Colossoma macropomum (Tambaqui). In the acute test, juveniles of Tambaqui were divided into control group and five experimental groups with exposure from 0.1 to 0.9 mg/L of lufenuron for 96 h. Animals were also submitted to chronic toxicity test for four months in concentrations of 0.1 and 0.3 mg/L of lufenuron, the concentration used in the treatment of ectoparasites in fish and 50% of LC50 96 h, respectively. The presence of hemorrhages was observed in eyes, fins and operculum of fish exposed to 0.7 and 0.9 mg/L of lufenuron. Histological analysis showed changes in the morphology of fish gills submitted to acute toxicity test, as lamellar aneurysm and blood congestion inside lamellae. Lufenuron promoted damage in fish retina as in ability to respond to stimuli in photoreceptors and in ON-bipolar cells in acute test. In chronic test, blood glucose analysis and morphometric parameters showed no significant differences (p > 0.05). In general, Tambaqui exhibited behaviors associated with stress when exposed to lufenuron. Thus, lufenuron showed several toxic effects in relation to biological parameters in Tambaqui. This concerns about the use and discard of lufenuron, and indicates the requirement of environmental actions to prevent potential contamination of aquatic biota.

MTOR Modulates Lymphocyte Differentiation through T-bet and Eomesodermin in Response to Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis in Rats.

Background:Aspergillosis infection is common in the patients with insufficient immunity. The role of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), T-box expressed in T-cells (T-bet), and eomesodermin (EOMES) in mediating T lymphocytes differentiation in response to Aspergillus fumigatus infection in immunocompromised rats was investigated in this study.Methods:Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) of immunosuppressive twenty male rats were established and sacrificed at 24 h (n = 5), 48 h (n = 5), 72 h (n = 5), and 96 h (n = 5) after A. fumigatus infection. In addition, control (n = 5), cyclophosphamide (CTX) (n = 5), and aspergillosis (n = 5) group were also established the tissues and pathology of lung tissue was examined by hematoxylin and eosin staining. CD8+ T-cells was sorted by flow cytometry. Serum mTOR, S6K, T-bet, and EOMES were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.Results:Histology of lung tissue indicated severe lung tissue injury including infiltration of inflammatory cells, alveolar wall damage or degradation, blood congestion, and hemorrhage in the CTX, IPA, and CTX + IPA rats. Hyphae were seen in the IPA, and CTX + IPA groups. The proportion of CD8+ T-cells was significantly increased in the animals of CTX + IPA. Memory CD8+ T-cells was significantly increased in early stage (24 h and 48 h, P < 0.001), but decreased in the late phase of fungal infection (72 h and 96 h) in the animals of CTX + IPA. In addition, at early stage of fungal infection (24 h and 48 h), serum mTOR (P < 0.001), S6K (P < 0.001), and T-bet (P < 0.05) was significantly higher, while EOMES was significantly lower (P < 0.001), in CTX + IPA group than that in control, CTX alone or IPA alone group. Conversely, serum mTOR, S6K, T-bet, and EOMES showed opposite changed in the late stage (72 h and 96 h). Pearson's correlation analysis indicated that mTOR and S6K were significantly correlated with T-bet (r = 0.901 and 0.91, respectively, P < 0.001), but negatively and significantly correlated with EOMES (r = −0.758 and −0.751, respectively, P < 0.001).Conclusions:mTOR may regulate transcription factors of EOMES and T-bet, and by which mechanism, it may modulate lymphocytes differentiation in animals with immune suppression and fungal infection.

Dynamics of the glycemic profile in women in long-term antiorthostatic hypokinesia

The dynamics of the glycemic curve profile was investigated in 8 healthy women during performance of the glucose tolerance test (GТТ) in 120-day antiorthostatic hypokinesia (–6°) (АNОH) simulating the effects of weightlessness. Glycemic profiles were characterized by more marked hyperglycemic response at 30 min of GТТ in the first month of stay under ANOH conditions and had a flattened appearance three months later. Glycemic profiles characteristic of delayed restoration of the blood glucose concentration appeared in the fourth month, which persisted over the first week after the end of АNОH. The glycemic profile changes developed against the background of the signs of progressive congestion of blood in the venous system of the abdominal cavity. The expansion of diameters of the main veins of the abdominal cavity was noted at the beginning of АNОH; an increase in the size of the organs and the signs of expansion of venous plexuses at the site of portocaval anastomoses, after three months; the occurrence of the signs of transudation and free fluid in the abdominal cavity was revealed at the end of hypokinesia. The countermeasures against hypodynamia did not prevent transformation of the glycemic profile nor did they influence the progression of blood flow congestion in the venous system of the abdominal cavity whose features determined the character changes in the glycemic profile in different periods of ANOH.

Pomegranate peel Extract Protects Cadmium-induced nephrotoxicity in albino mice.

Cadmium chloride (CdCl2) is a toxicant heavy metal displays adverse properties in humans creating public health risks. Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is widely known as antimicrobial and antioxidant. This study investigated the cadmium-induced structural effects in mice and evaluated the beneficial effect of alcoholic extract of P. granatum fruit peel (PPE) to protective CdCl2 nephrotoxicity. Animals were divided into 4 groups; group 1: control, group 2: given 25ml/kg PPE, group 3: given CdCl2 at a dose level of 2mg/kg, and Group 4: given CdCl2 and PPE. The animals were given the previous treatment daily for 14days. CdCl2 intoxication led to obvious many histopathological alterations in kidney glomeruli accompanied with wide and congested blood vessels, renal tubules missed their distinct form with cytoplasmic vacuolation of their epithelial cells and pyknotic nuclei and leucocytes cells infiltration in the intertubular spaces. On the other hand, the immunohistochemical staining of antiapoptotic Bcl-2 and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expressions were positive after CdCl2 exposure compared with the control group. Ultrastructure observations revealed thickening of the glomerular basement membrane and fusion of the podocytes foot processes, tubular epithelial cells vacoulation with pyknotic nuclei, perforation and vacoulation of mitochondria, deterioration of endoplasmic reticulum, and increase of lysosomes. CdCl2-exposure accompanied by increased level of serum urea, creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) as well as significant increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) besides decreased of the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) level. In contrast, co-administration of PPE plus CdCl2 ameliorated these parameters around the normal levels. It contributed the improvement by the histological, ultrastructure, and decreased Bcl-2 and α smooth muscle protein expression, and kidney function through a significant decrease in urea, creatinine, and BUN, reduced the level of serum MDA as lipid peroxidation marker and restored the altered antioxidant system activity. It was concluded that Cd-induced nephrotoxicity at a dose level 2 mg/kg b.w. in mice. The PPE may be involved in the protection of toxicity displayed by CdCl2 induction attributed to the high antioxidant capacity.

Histological changes of the adult albino rats entorhinal cortex under the effect of tramadol administration: Histological and morphometric study

BackgroundTramadol is a centrally acting synthetic analgesic agent with opioid activity. Tramadol is used to treat moderate to severe pain. The entorhinal cortex has initially attracted attention because of its strong reciprocal connections with the hippocampal formation and its involvement in certain brain disorders. Aim of workThe present study was designed to assess the deleterious effects of tramadol on the entorhinal cortex of the adult male albino rats. Materials and methodsThe study was carried out on 40 adult male rats. The rats were divided equally into two groups: control group, received 1ml normal saline 0.9% intraperitoneally for 4weeks. Treated group received 50mg/kg/day of tramadol intraperitoneally for 4weeks. All animals were anaesthetized by ether inhalation and perfused by normal saline. The brains were extracted from the skulls. For light microscopy, the brains of 10 animals in each group were processed for paraffin sections and stained by Gallocyanine stain. For electron microscopy, the entorhinal cortex was dissected in 10 brains of each group and processed. Semithin sections were prepared and stained with toluidine blue. Morphometric and statistical studies were performed. ResultsBy light microscopy, the treated groups showed neuronal cells disorganization. Apoptotic cells were detected. In addition, diffuse chromatolysis of nuclear chromatin, absence of nucleoli, multinuclear cells, intercellular edema and a congested blood capillary were noticed. By electron microscopy, the treated groups of both lateral and medial entorhinal areas showed granular and pyramidal apoptotic cells. The morphometric and statistical studies showed significant increase of apoptotic index % in treated group as compared with control group. ConclusionTramadol had degenerative effects on both lateral and medial entorhinal areas. Light as well as electron microscopic examination of entorhinal areas came to prove these effects. Tramadol abuse should be avoided without medical description due to its toxic effects.

Effect of sodium fluoride on the oviductal mucosa of adult albino rats and the possible protective role of pomegranate peel extract

Background Fluoride is an essential element that naturally exists in varying amounts in the environment. It has been widely used as an additive in many dental care products. The female reproductive system is very sensitive to different harmful environmental factors including fluoride. The oviduct plays a dynamic role during the reproductive period in females. Pomegranate has been reported to contain a wide range of flavonoids and anthocyanins, which are responsible for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Aim This study aimed to investigate the effect of sodium fluoride (NaF) on the oviductal mucosa of adult albino rat and the possible role of pomegranate peel extract in ameliorating such an effect. Materials and methods Twenty-four adult female albino rats were divided into four equal groups: the control group, the pomegranate-treated group (50 mg/kg), the NaF-treated group (22 mg/kg), and both pomegranate and fluoride-treated group. Animals were orally gavaged daily for 30 days. Specimens from the oviducts were processed for light and electron microscopy. Immunohistochemical study was carried out using antibody against acetylated α-tubulin. Results Specimens from NaF-treated animals showed overcrowding alternating with exfoliated epithelial cells, few short cilia, vacuolated cytoplasm, and some nuclear alterations. Some mononuclear cells and dilated congested blood vessels were also observed. Ultrastructurally, some cells appeared vacuolated with indented nuclei. The cytoplasm revealed dilated Golgi apparatus and rough endoplasmic reticulum. Moreover, distorted mitochondria were also detected. Periodic acid–Schiff histochemical staining revealed a significantly decreased reaction. Immunohistochemical study showed a significant decrease in acetylated α-tubulin immunoreaction. In contrast, minimal changes were observed in rats treated concomitantly with both fluoride and pomegranate. Conclusion Fluoride induces morphological changes in rat oviductal mucosa that can be ameliorated by concomitant treatment with pomegranate.