Embryological basis of polyorchidism including classification, reproductive potential, and risk of malignancy: A review

Polyorchidism, a congenital malformation characterized by supernumerary testes (SNTs), is usually revealed incidentally during ultrasound or open scrotal surgery. In the approximately 200 cases so far published in the literature, the left side is affected more often than the right. Despite the rarity of this anomaly, a surgeon must have basic knowledge of its embryological basis and classifications to implement proper treatment and avoid overlooking it, since the consequences could harm the patient. This review summarizes previous classifications. It can be assumed that determining the risk of malignancy, and the level of reproductive potential based on location, vascularization, ductus deferens drainage, and environmental factors (e.g., temperature) affecting the SNTs, indicates the best approach to management. Therefore, we have created a new classification based on previous ones, addressing the aforementioned issues, which will guide the clinician to select the most appropriate treatment.

Dietary Habits and Nutritional Status of Different Population Groups in Relation to Lifestyle Factors and Nutritional Knowledge

Proper nutrition and a balanced diet are factors that influence the growth and development of children and adolescents, as well as body weight and health throughout life [...].

Testicular Metastasis from Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Systematic Review

Approximately one-third of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is recognized in its metastatic stage. This systematic review aimed to summarize knowledge on the occurrence and treatment of testicular RCC metastasis. The literature search was performed by two authors independently, with the use of main electronic medical databases (Science Direct, Web of Science, and PubMed) until March 2023 to identify relevant articles that could potentially contribute to this review. Neither language nor publication dates were set as limits. Although we found a total of 51 case reports, only 31 of them contained all the required information. Testicular metastasis in patients with RCC suggests a late stage of the disease. Moreover, it usually does not present typical systemic or specific symptoms except for swelling and enlargement of the affected testis. Knowledge of the possibility of such variants of RCC metastases will allow a clinician to make an appropriate diagnosis and implement adequate treatment without delay, which is crucial in the management of neoplastic disease.

Carbon Adsorbents Obtained from Pistachio Nut Shells Used as Potential Ingredients of Drinking Water Filters

Water resources are increasingly degraded due to the discharge of waste generated in municipal, industrial and agricultural areas. Therefore, the search for new materials enabling the effective treatment of drinking water and sewage is currently of great interest. This paper deals with the adsorption of organic and inorganic pollutants on the surface of carbonaceous adsorbents prepared by thermochemical conversion of common pistachio nut shells. The influence of the direct physical activation with CO₂ and chemical activation with H₃PO₄ on parameters, such as elemental composition, textural parameters, acidic-basic character of the surface as well as electrokinetic properties of the prepared carbonaceous materials was checked. The suitability of the activated biocarbons prepared as the adsorbents of iodine, methylene blue and poly(acrylic acid) from the aqueous solutions was estimated. The sample obtained via chemical activation of the precursor turned out to be much more effective in terms of all the tested pollutants adsorption. Its maximum sorption capacity toward iodine was 1059 mg/g, whereas in relation to methylene blue and poly(acrylic acid) 183.1 mg/g and 207.9 mg/g was achieved, respectively. For both carbonaceous materials, a better fit to the experimental data was achieved with a Langmuir isotherm than a Freundlich one. It has also been shown that the efficiency of organic dye, and especially anionic polymer adsorption from aqueous solutions, is significantly affected by solution pH and temperature of the adsorbate-adsorbent system.

The relation between the depth of pigment disposition and men's skin thickness, the age and tattoo locations on the body

The most important function of the skin is to protect the body against harmful mechanical, physical and chemical factors. Its regenerative capacity is sufficient for self-repair in the event of damage, for example, during tattooing, which can be treated as an invasive procedure introducing pigment molecules into skin layers. In the present research on tattoo pigment deposition, the structure of the dermis and epidermis was evaluated using the standard histological technique with hematoxylin and eosin staining. In addition, statistically significant differences between the depth of pigment deposition on the one hand and age, dermis and epidermis thickness and tattoo location on the other were demonstrated.

Distribution and Morphological Characteristics of Oligodendrocytes in Selected Areas of the Brain of Male and Female Red Kangaroos (Macropus rufus)

This study was carried out on six adult red kangaroos of both sexes. To determine the location of the oligodendrocytes (OLGs) of the hippocampus (Hip) and corpus callosum (CC), the method of impregnation of the neuroglia with silver salts was applied. The iron distribution in the OLGs was determined by the histochemical method. The Nissl method was used to determine the location of the brain structure and to analyze the number of OLGs. In the Hip, these cells are located one beside another, mainly in blood vessels and neurons; in the neocortex (NC), they are located in layers I–VI; and in the CC, they are arranged in characteristic rows and accompany both nerve fibers and blood vessels. The analysis of the results obtained by the chosen methods in the Hip, NC, and CC in males and females did not show statistically significant differences in the distribution and location of the red kangaroo OLGs. The involvement of these cells is a physiological process that proceeds in a similar manner throughout the life of individuals and actively influences the metabolism of neurons and myelin.

Structural and Metabolic Changes in Bone

Simple Summary

Bone is an extremely metabolically active tissue that is regenerated and repaired over its lifetime by bone remodeling. Most bone diseases are caused by abnormal restructure processes that undermine bone structure and mechanical strength and trigger clinical symptoms, such as pain, deformity, fracture, and abnormalities of calcium and phosphate homoeostasis. The article examines the main aspects of bone development, anatomy, structure, and the mechanisms of cell and molecular regulation of bone remodeling.

Abstract

As an essential component of the skeleton, bone tissue provides solid support for the body and protects vital organs. Bone tissue is a reservoir of calcium, phosphate, and other ions that can be released or stored in a controlled manner to provide constant concentration in body fluids. Normally, bone development or osteogenesis occurs through two ossification processes (intra-articular and intra-chondral), but the first produces woven bone, which is quickly replaced by stronger lamellar bone. Contrary to commonly held misconceptions, bone is a relatively dynamic organ that undergoes significant turnover compared to other organs in the body. Bone metabolism is a dynamic process that involves simultaneous bone formation and resorption, controlled by numerous factors. Bone metabolism comprises the key actions. Skeletal mass, structure, and quality are accrued and maintained throughout life, and the anabolic and catabolic actions are mostly balanced due to the tight regulation of the activity of osteoblasts and osteoclasts. This activity is also provided by circulating hormones and cytokines. Bone tissue remodeling processes are regulated by various biologically active substances secreted by bone tissue cells, namely RANK, RANKL, MMP-1, MMP-9, or type 1 collagen. Bone-derived factors (BDF) influence bone function and metabolism, and pathophysiological conditions lead to bone dysfunction. This work aims to analyze and evaluate the current literature on various local and systemic factors or immune system interactions that can affect bone metabolism and its impairments.

The relationship between rigorous perception of one's own body and self, unhealthy eating behavior and a high risk of anorexic readiness: a predictor of eating disorders in the group of female ballet dancers and artistic gymnasts at the beginning of their career

BACKGROUND

A group that is particularly exposed to eating disorders are young sportswomen who practice aesthetic disciplines, for whom it is important to keep a slim figure. Hence, the purpose of the study was to present the assessment of perception of one's own body and self as well as nutritional behavior in the group of ballet dancers and artistic gymnasts (BGA, n = 60) aged 10-12 against the background of the peer group (K, n = 60) and to determine the relationship between the studied elements, as well as anorexic readiness risk assessment to help diagnose premorbid stage of eating disorders with full symptoms.

METHODS

Anthropometric measurements (height, body weight) and the assessment of adipose tissue were performed. Using a questionnaire, data on physical activity, perception of one's own body and self, and selected eating behaviors were collected.

RESULTS

Underweight was observed in nearly half of the girls from the BGA group and the content of adipose tissue was significantly lower. Girls from the BGA group were characterized by overestimation of body size (p = 0.032), the need to improve their appearance/body (p = 0.025) and wanting to be the best in many areas of life (p = 0.002) significantly more often than in the K group. Moreover, they significantly more often limited the consumption of fats and carbohydrates (p = 0.044) and felt angry with themselves after too large of a meal (p = 0.050). It was shown that unhealthy eating behavior in the BGA group was significantly associated with rigorous self-perception (r = 0.42; p < 0.001). Students from the BGA group were more often exposed to a higher risk of anorexic readiness (p = 0.001). In a detailed analysis, it was found that eating behaviors, such as fasting, limiting the consumption of fats and carbohydrates, and avoiding eating under stress, were associated with feelings of dissatisfaction with oneself, the belief that appearance is extremely important in achieving life success and the need to improve appearance.

CONCLUSION

The obtained research results can be used as a source of information for specialists (including dietitians and psychologists), for the preparation of educational and repair programs in the group of ballet dancers or artistic gymnasts aged 10-12, including nutritional education and psychological care.

Statement of the Committee of Human Nutrition Science of the Polish Academy of Sciences on the use of dietary supplements containing vitamins and minerals by adults

The use of dietary supplements (supplementation) is the individual enrichment of the diet with ingredients naturally occurring in food. As a rule, dietary supplements should be used periodically. In nutritional practice, there are many indications for dietary supplementation, but the decision to take dietary supplements should be made by consumers wisely and only in justified situations, when there is a risk that the usual diet does not provide vitamins and minerals in an amount adequate to meet dietary recommendations. However, we should remember about the real dangers of taking too large doses of vitamins and minerals. Many people using dietary supplements, especially several types at the same time, may experience undesirable side effects and deterioration of health, and in addition, people taking medicines may seriously disrupt or weaken the effect of the drug, or even lack the therapeutic effect of the drug. The document presents 10 steps and rules for the use of dietary supplements available on the market, which are addressed to the general population.

From carotenoid intake to carotenoid blood and tissue concentrations - implications for dietary intake recommendations

There is uncertainty regarding carotenoid intake recommendations, because positive and negative health effects have been found or are correlated with carotenoid intake and tissue levels (including blood, adipose tissue, and the macula), depending on the type of study (epidemiological vs intervention), the dose (physiological vs supraphysiological) and the matrix (foods vs supplements, isolated or used in combination). All these factors, combined with interindividual response variations (eg, depending on age, sex, disease state, genetic makeup), make the relationship between carotenoid intake and their blood/tissue concentrations often unclear and highly variable. Although blood total carotenoid concentrations <1000 nmol/L have been related to increased chronic disease risk, no dietary reference intakes (DRIs) exist. Although high total plasma/serum carotenoid concentrations of up to 7500 nmol/L are achievable after supplementation, a plateauing effect for higher doses and prolonged intake is apparent. In this review and position paper, the current knowledge on carotenoids in serum/plasma and tissues and their relationship to dietary intake and health status is summarized with the aim of proposing suggestions for a "normal," safe, and desirable range of concentrations that presumably are beneficial for health. Existing recommendations are likewise evaluated and practical dietary suggestions are included.

Management of Incidental Finding of Triorchidism Diagnosed During Routine Hernia Repair

Polyorchidism is a rare congenital anomaly which refers to the presence of more than two intra- or extrascrotal testicles. Triorchidism, the presence of one extra testicle is the most common type. This report describes the case of a 29-year-old male who was found to have a right supernumerary undescended testis encountered incidentally during hernia repair. With this in mind, the current knowledge of management of supernumerary testis was analysed, including potential scenarios, to delineate what a urologist should do when a supernumerary testis is found during routine surgical procedures such as orchidopexy or hernia repair.

Effects of vitamin D on macrophages and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) hyperinflammatory response in the lungs of COVID-19 patients

Vitamin D regulates homeostasis, anti-microbial response, and inflammation. The vitamin D receptors are expressed in the macrophages and other immune cells, regulating the transcription of many different genes, including those coding the anti-microbial peptides. One of the most severe complications of the SARS-CoV-2 infection is the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) caused by the hyperinflammatory response (commonly called cytokine storm) of the lung macrophages. Studies showed that Vitamin D deficiency increases the severity of the ARDS in COVID-19 infection. We discuss here how the vitamin D supplementation may influence macrophage and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) inflammatory response, subdue the hyperinflammatory response, and lessen the ARDS in COVID-19 patients.

The Effect of Passive Exposure to Tobacco Smoke on the Immune Response in Children with Asthma

Introduction: There are a few publications about the impact of tobacco smoke on the children's immune system. Material and Methods: The study group consisted of 43 children with asthma. The control group consisted of 37 healthy children. The exposure to tobacco smoke was assessed by the presence of the cotinine in the urine (metabolit of nicotine). Results: The group of children with asthma exposed to tobacco smoke had significantly higher levels of the IL-1 and lower levels IL-4 than children not exposed to the passive smoking. The children from the control group exposed to tobacco smoke had a significantly higher concentration of IL-4 than unexposed children. In the whole analyzed population, there was a significant positive correlation between cotinine-IL1 and cotinine-CRP. Conclusion: In this study we found that the passive exposure to tobacco smoke has the immunomodulatory effects on the immune system.

Ferritins in Chordata: Potential evolutionary trajectory marked by discrete selective pressures: History and reclassification of ferritins in chordates and geological events' influence on their evolution and radiation

Ferritins (FTs) are iron storage proteins that are involved in managing iron-oxygen balance. In our work, we present a hypothesis on the putative effect of geological changes that have affected the evolution and radiation of ferritin proteins. Based on sequence analysis and phylogeny reconstruction, we hypothesize that two significant factors have been involved in the evolution of ferritin proteins: fluctuations of atmospheric oxygen concentrations, altering redox potential, and changing availability of water rich in bioavailable ferric ions. Fish, ancient amphibians, reptiles, and placental mammals developed the broadest repertoire of singular FTs, attributable to embryonic growth in aquatic environments containing low oxygen levels and abundant forms of soluble iron. In contrast, oviparous land vertebrates, like reptiles and birds, that have developed in high oxygen levels and limited levels of environmental Fe²⁺ exhibit a lower diversity of singular FTs, but display a broad repertoire of subfamilies, particularly notable in early reptiles.

Severe atopic dermatitis in a boy with potato allergy

Food allergy is an important problem in the paediatric population. Food products that are most likely to induce allergic reactions include cow’s milk, wheat, peanuts, hen’s eggs, fish and seafood. Food-allergy-related diseases include, among other things, atopic dermatitis, urticaria and asthma. Anaphylactic shock is the most severe form of allergic reaction. Intramuscular adrenalin at a dose of 0.01 mg/kg body weight (maximum dose 0.3–0.5 mg) is the primary treatment for anaphylaxis. An elimination diet is the treatment of choice in food allergy. If symptoms persist despite dietary intervention, extended diagnosis using skin prick tests and/or specific IgE measurements should be performed. We present a clinical case of a 2.5-year-old boy with erythroderma secondary to atopic dermatitis, who was referred to our Department due to the lack of improvement after outpatient treatment. It was found during hospital stay that the symptoms were caused by potato allergens.

Cat-scratch fever in a 14-year-old girl – a case report

Cat-scratch fever is a bacterial zoonotic disease most commonly caused by the bacteria Bartonella henselae. In the majority of cases, the pathogens enter the body as a consequence of a scratch by young cats. The disease usually presents as local lymphadenopathy and resolves spontaneously over a period of 8–12 weeks. The epidemiological status of bartonellosis in Poland varies. According to the latest epidemiological data, a total of 36 cases of the disease were reported in 2008, with 75% of cases requiring hospitalisation. The clinical presentation of cat-scratch fever is often non-specific, so a wide panel of tests is required to rule out other diseases that may be accompanied by local lymphadenopathy. The disease is usually mild and selflimiting, but some patients may require antibiotic therapy. The case reported here shows that a thorough evaluation of medical history plays a key role in the diagnostic process, providing a rapid and accurate preliminary diagnosis.

N-acetylcysteine in clinical practice – properties, use and adverse effects

N-acetylcysteine is a simple chemical compound with antioxidant and mucolytic properties. Currently, it is the primary treatment for acetaminophen poisoning. Prior to the introduction of acetylcysteine, acetaminophen overdose was associated with high mortality due to acute liver failure. Owing to its antioxidant properties, acetylcysteine maintains appropriate levels of glutathione, thereby protecting the liver from damage by toxic metabolites of paracetamol. Acetylcysteine is also used for infections with excess respiratory secretions. The mechanism of action of cysteine derivatives involves cleavage of disulfide bonds between the macromolecules present in the mucus and, consequently, reduction of mucus viscosity. Clinical trials have shown that N-acetylcysteine also plays an important role in relieving cough by eliminating mucus from the airways. Owing to its antioxidant properties, it can also prevent contrast-induced nephropathy. It was shown that prophylactic doses of acetylcysteine administered the day before and at the day of contrast administration are effective in preventing contrastinduced nephropathy in patients with chronic kidney disease. The compound can also modulate pathophysiological processes involved in many mental and neurological disorders. There is also evidence supporting the efficacy of acetylcysteine in mental disorders such as autism, schizophrenia, Alzheimer’s disease, psychoactive substance dependence or bipolar disorder. However, in addition to its therapeutic activity, the drug may also induce adverse effects. Adverse effects of varying severity have been reported since the introduction of acetylcysteine into clinical use.

Internalization of the Aspergillus nidulans AstA Transporter into Mitochondria Depends on Growth Conditions, and Affects ATP Levels and Sulfite Oxidase Activity

The astA gene encoding an alternative sulfate transporter was originally cloned from the genome of the Japanese Aspergillus nidulans isolate as a suppressor of sulfate permease-deficient strains. Expression of the astA gene is under the control of the sulfur metabolite repression system. The encoded protein transports sulfate across the cell membrane. In this study we show that AstA, having orthologs in numerous pathogenic or endophytic fungi, has a second function and, depending on growth conditions, can be translocated into mitochondria. This effect is especially pronounced when an astA-overexpressing strain grows on solid medium at 37 °C. AstA is also recruited to the mitochondria in the presence of mitochondria-affecting compounds such as menadione or antimycin A, which are also detrimental to the growth of the astA-overexpressing strain. Disruption of the Hsp70-Porin1 mitochondrial import system either by methylene blue, an Hsp70 inhibitor, or by deletion of the porin1-encoding gene abolishes AstA translocation into the mitochondria. Furthermore, we observed altered ATP levels and sulfite oxidase activity in the astA-overexpressing strain in a manner dependent on sulfur sources. The presented data indicate that AstA is also involved in the mitochondrial sulfur metabolism in some fungi, and thereby indirectly manages redox potential and energy state.

The Glucose Metabolic Pathway as A Potential Target for Therapeutics: Crucial Role of Glycosylation in Alzheimer's Disease

Glucose uptake in the brain decreases because of normal aging but this decline is accelerated in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients. In fact, positron emission tomography (PET) studies have shown that metabolic reductions in AD patients occur decades before the onset of symptoms, suggesting that metabolic deficits may be an upstream event in at least some late-onset cases. A decrease in availability of glucose content induces a considerable impairment/downregulation of glycosylation, which is an important post-translational modification. Glycosylation is an important and highly regulated mechanism of secondary protein processing within cells and it plays a crucial role in modulating stability of proteins, as carbohydrates are important in achieving the proper three-dimensional conformation of glycoproteins. Moreover, glycosylation acts as a metabolic sensor that links glucose metabolism to normal neuronal functioning. All the proteins involved in β-amyloid (Aβ) precursor protein metabolism have been identified as candidates of glycosylation highlighting the possibility that Aβ metabolism could be regulated by their glycosylation. Within this framework, the present review aims to summarize the current understanding on the role of glycosylation in the etiopathology of AD, emphasizing the idea that glucose metabolic pathway may represent an alternative therapeutic option for targeting AD. From this perspective, the pharmacological modulation of glycosylation levels may represent a ‘sweet approach’ to treat AD targeting new mechanisms independent of the amyloid cascade and with comparable impacts in familial and sporadic AD.

The Dual Role of Glutamatergic Neurotransmission in Alzheimer's Disease: From Pathophysiology to Pharmacotherapy

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an age-related dementia and neurodegenerative disorder, characterized by Aβ and tau protein deposition impairing learning, memory and suppressing synaptic plasticity of neurons. Increasing evidence suggests that there is a link between the glucose and glutamate alterations with age that down-regulates glucose utilization reducing glutamate levels in AD patients. Deviations in brain energy metabolism reinforce the development of AD by hampering glutamate levels in the brain. Glutamate is a nonessential amino acid and the major excitatory neurotransmitter synthesized from glucose. Alterations in cerebral glucose and glutamate levels precede the deposition of Aβ plaques. In the brain, over 40% of neuronal synapses are glutamatergic and disturbances in glutamatergic function have been implicated in pathophysiology of AD. Nevertheless, targeting the glutamatergic system seems to be a promising strategy to develop novel, improved therapeutics for AD. Here, we review data supporting the involvement of the glutamatergic system in AD pathophysiology as well as the efficacy of glutamatergic agents in this neurodegenerative disorder. We also discuss exciting new prospects for the development of improved therapeutics for this devastating disorder.

Reliability of humeral head measurements performed using two- and three-dimensional computed tomography in patients with shoulder instability

Purpose

The aim of the study was to compare two measurement methods of humeral head defects in patients with shoulder instability. Intra- and inter-observer reliability of humeral head parameters were performed with the use of 2D and 3D computed tomography.

Methods

The study group was composed of one hundred humeral heads measured with the use of preoperative 2D and 3D computed tomography by three independent observers (two experienced and one inexperienced). All observers repeated measurements after 1 week. The intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) and the minimal detectable change with 95% confidence (MDC₉₅%) were used for statistical analysis of diagnostic agreement.

Results

For 3D inter-observer reliability, ICC values were “excellent” for all parameters and MDC₉₅% values were “excellent” or “reasonable.” All intra-observer ICC and MDC₉₅% values for 3D were “excellent” for experienced and inexperienced observers. For 2D-CT, ICC values were usually “good” or “moderate” with MDC₉₅% values higher than 10 or 30%.

Conclusions

Three-dimensional CT measurements are more reliable than 2D for humeral head and Hill-Sachs lesion assessment. This study showed that 2D measurements, even performed by experienced observers (orthopaedic surgeons), are burdened with errors. The 3D reconstruction decreased the risk of error by eliminating inaccuracy in setting the plane of the measurements.

Lycopene in tomatoes and tomato products

This article focused on the content of lycopene in fresh and dried tomatoes and tomato pomace, as well as in tomato paste at different harvest times (harvest 1 – August and harvest 2 – September). The lycopene content of tomatoes and tomato products was evaluated by using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The results showed that the highest content of lycopene was estimated in the tomato paste independent of the time of harvest (211.73 mg/100 g dm in August and 184.29 mg/100 g dm in September) and the lowest content in fresh pomace (20.45 and 16.11 mg/100 g dm in August and September, respectively). Good sources of lycopene are tomato by-products, in particularly dried tomato pomace (25.11 mg/100 g dm – harvest 1 and 19.30 mg/100 g dm – harvest 2). This study showed that tomato waste can be considered as a promising source of lycopene for the production of functional foods.

Reduced Screen Time is Associated with Healthy Dietary Behaviors but Not Body Weight Status among Polish Adolescents. Report from the Wise Nutrition-Healthy Generation Project

Screen time (ST) not only affects physical activity but can also be associated with dietary behaviors. Both of these factors determine the health and development of adolescents. The aims of the study were: 1. to analyze the relationship between ST and nutritional behaviors among adolescents; 2. to examine this association in relation to body weight status. Data on the ST duration and nutritional behaviors were collected using a questionnaire. Body mass status was assessed based on weight and height measurements. A total of 14,044 students aged 13–19 years old from 207 schools participated in the study. A significant relationship between ST and gender, age and type of school was observed, but not body weight status. The average ST duration increased with age (from 2.6 h among 13 years old to 3.2 h among 19 years old), and was significantly higher among boys in all age categories (2.7 h vs. 2.5 h in the youngest age group, and 3.5 h vs. 3.0 h in the oldest age group, respectively). The chance for meeting the recommendation for ST in a group of girls (regardless of age) was almost 50% higher compared to boys. Meeting ST recommendation (≤2 h) was associated with a greater odds ratio for favorable nutritional behaviors in the whole group, with exception of drinking milk or milk beverages, and significantly reduced the odds ratio of adverse dietary behaviors (drinking sweet beverages, consumption of sweets and fast food) in the whole group and by gender. More research is needed to clarify the possible cause-and-effect relationships between ST and dietary behaviors.

Influence of Vitamin D and Cotinine on T-Regulatory Cells and Asthma Severity in Children

Asthma is a common chronic respiratory diseases in children. Understanding the immune mechanisms of epigenetic factors may contribute to a better control of asthma. This study seeks to determine the effects of serum vitamin D and urine cotinine on asthma severity and on T regulatory cells (Tregs) and other immune-related factors such as CD3, CD4, CD8, CD19, CD16/56, and anti-CD3 HLA-DR3. The study involved 34 children with asthma. Disease severity was assessed with the Asthma Control Test, spirometry, and the fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO). The control group consisted of 18 healthy children. We found a significantly lower proportion of Tregs in the serum of asthmatic children compared with the control group (p < 0.002). There were no significant differences in the other immunological factors investigated. Nor was there any appreciable association between vitamin D or cotinine and the course of asthma, FeNO, Tregs, and the other immune factors. However, the percentage of Tregs was positively associated with the level of FeNO (p < 0.02). In conclusion, the study shows a role of T regulatory cells in the pathogenesis of asthma in children, but fails to show any influence of serum vitamin D or urine cotinine on disease course.

The effect of obesity on the bone morphometry and histomorphometry in male and female Wistar rats

The study was undertaken to determine the effect of continuation or changes of the diet on the morphometry and histomorphometry of bone in male and female Wistar rats with experimen- tally induced obesity by high energetic diet. Sixty-four 90-day-old Wistar rats obtained from obese parents (16 male, 16 female) and control parents (16 male, 16 female) were used in this study. After 21 days of the baby period, rats were divided into four groups: obese rats fed with high energy feed (F/F), control rats fed with a standard diet (C/C), obese rats with changed diet from high energy diet to control diet (F/C) and control rats with changed diet from control diet to high energy diet (C/F). After 90 days of experimental feeding, the rats were sacrificed. Thereafter, body weight and the isolated humerus were measured and next, the histological stainings and counts were done. Our results revealed that change in the parent's diet from F to C in the female leads to increased bone growth length and reduction of body weight in female and male. Reverse diet changes (from C to F) lead to decreased bone length only in the female. Moreover, the con- tinuation by offspring of both sexes with a high-energy diet contributes to a reduction in osteo- cytes, reduction in bone marrow cavity and cortical expansion, but a change in nutrition from parents' standard diet to high-energy diet leads to increase in osteocytes dimensions. The contin- uation of feeding with F diet promotes the accumulation of adipocytes in the bone marrow in female and male, and correction of nutrition from F to standard diet leads to a reduction in their number in the bone marrow compared to groups continuing feeding with high-energy diet.

Immunoreactivity for calretininin interneurons of the hippocampal CA1 field and dentate gyrus in adult rats after administration of habanero peppers (Capsicum chinense Jacq.)

Calretinin (CR), a calcium-binding protein from EF-hand family, is localised in non-pyramidal GABA-ergic interneurons of the hippocampus. CR takes part in maintaining calcium binding homeostasis, which suggests its neuroprotective role. Hippocampal neurons contain membrane transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) which binds to capsaicin (CAP) contained in habanero pepper fruits. Few in vivo studies have revealed the effect of CAP on interneurons containing CR. The aim of the present study was to investigate the CR immunoreac- tivity in interneurons of the hippocampal CA1 field and dentate gyrus (DG) in adult rats after intragastric admin- istration of the habanero pepper fruits. Wistar rats received a peanut oil - control group (C), and oil suspension of habanero pepper fruits at doses of 0.025 g dm/kg b.w. - group I and 0.08 g dm/kg b.w. - group II for 28 days. After euthanasia, the brains were collected and embedded in paraffin blocks using a routine histological tech- nique. Frontal hippocampal sections were immunohistochemically stained for CR by using a peroxidase-antiper- oxidase method. CR immunoreactive (CR-IR) interneurons were morphologically and morphometrically ana- lyzed under a light microscope. The results showed similar shapes and distribution of cells in both areas of the brain in group C and I of animals. However, CR-IR interneurons in the hippocampal CA1 field and in DG were occasionally observed in the group II of rats. The results of morphometric studies did not reveal statistically significant differences in the surface area and shape index of cells between examined brain regions from groups I and II compared to group C. Only in group II of rats, an increase in the digital immunostaining intensity of CR-IR interneurons was found in DG. Low number of CR-IR interneurons in the hippocampal CA1 field and in the DG, under the influence of a large dose of habanero pepper fruits containing CAP, may be caused by the activation of TRPV1 receptors and the increase in Ca2+ ions in these cells. This phenomenon may ultimately lead to neuronal death and may disturb neuronal conduction.

Rapid Weight Loss and Dietary Inadequacies among Martial Arts Practitioners from Poland

Healthy nutrition and maintaining a normal body weight are very important for reducing the risk of various diseases not only among the general population, but also among athletes, especially combat sport athletes. The aim of the study was to evaluate the prevalence of rapid weight loss (RWL) and to indicate eventual dietary inadequacies among professional martial arts practitioners. Sixty-two male athletes (aged: 23 ± 4) completed a questionnaire (i.e., frequency of food group consumption, questions about training and RWL) and single 24-h dietary recall. This study confirmed the high prevalence of RWL in athletes (58%) for two to three days before the competition, which allowed for reduction of 3.4 ± 1.0 kg (4.3 ± 1.5%) of their body weight. Many dietary inaccuracies were found such as: lower than recommended by nutrition experts, level of consumption of dairy products, grain products, fruit, and vegetables, and insufficient intake of energy, carbohydrates, minerals (especially iodine, potassium, calcium) and vitamins (especially D, folate, C, E) during the training day. Adequate nutrition is a natural support for the whole training process, and may allow for regulation of body weight in a longer period and in a safer manner; thus, there is a need for nutrition education dedicated to athletes and their trainers.

Physicochemical Parameters of Selected Internal Organs of Fattening Pigs and Wild Boars

The objective of the study was to analyse selected physical properties and chemical indicators of internal organs obtained from fattening pigs and Central European wild boars (Sus scrofa scrofa). Each group consisted of 12 animals. The tongue, heart, lungs, liver and kidneys were examined for physical properties, basic chemical composition, macro- and micromineral content, and fatty acid profile. The atherogenic index (AI) and the thrombogenic index (TI) were also determined. Pig offal was found to be a rich source of protein and collagen, and to contain large amounts of potassium and sodium. Liver had a high content of iron, zinc, and manganese. Pig liver and wild boar heart were characterised by favourable PUFA /SFA ratios (above 0.4%). In addition, the content of neutral and hypocholesterolemic acids (DFA ) and hypercholesterolemic acids (OFA ) in pig offal was comparable to that in pig meat. The results presented in this study provide an extensive evaluation of the nutritional quality of pig offal, which allows an increase in the scope of its use in the food industry, among others for production of offal products, including traditional and regional products that are increasingly demanded by consumers.

Chondrocytes apoptosis in osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a type of degenerative joint disease where the balance between the degradation and the regeneration of articular cartilage is impaired, which leads to its progressive loss. This disease is the most common chronic musculoskeletal disease that leads to premature motor disability. Risk factors for developing OA include age, obesity, sex, past traumas and arthritis, genetic factors, diet and ethnicity. Typical OA symptoms are arthralgia, restriction of movement, cracking and secondary inflammatory lesions. In recent years, the underlying causes of this disease include chondrocyte death by apoptosis, necrosis or combinations of these types of cell death. Apoptosis, called programmed cell death, has clear morphological features, and is a highly regulated process. Apoptosis is involved in maintaining homeostasis; however, its severity is observed in many pathological conditions. Articular cartilage chondrocyte death by apoptosis disrupts the proper maintenance of cartilage structure by reducing cell density. Chondrocyte apoptosis causes mechanical damage, manifested by increased synthesis of free oxygen radicals and disturbance of the integrity of the extracellular matrix. An increasing amount of reports regarding the potential pharmacological substances that have been used as inhibitors of apoptosis have improved the quality of life in OA patients. This article presents the current state of knowledge on apoptosis and apoptotic death of chondrocytes in the course of osteoarthritis.