Expression of PCNA and Ki-67 in posterior uveal melanomas in adults

The aim of the study was to evaluate the expression of cell proliferation markers (PCNA and Ki-67) in posterior uveal melanomas in adults. Thirty-six enucleated eyes (without prior treatment) were included in histopatological study. A series of 15 cases of spindle cell type melanomas, 12 epithelioid and 9 of a mixed type were assessed, using the immunohistochemical method with monoclonal PCNA and Ki-67 antibodies. PCNA expression was observed in 75% and Ki-67 in 13.8% of all the examined tumours. The mean score of PCNA and Ki-67 index were the highest in tumours, which contained epithelioid cells and in large, more advanced (pT3, pT4) uveal melanomas. The results showed that the evaluation of expression of PCNA and Ki-67 may provide an additional infonnation about the progression of tumor process.

Influence of thalidomide on megakaryocytes in multiple myeloma

The aim of the study was to assess the influence of thalidomide on megakaryocytes (MK) in patients with multiple myeloma (MM). The study was based on bone marrow trephine biopsies from 12 patients with MM before initiation of thalidomide administration and after three months of its duration. The morphometric examinations were done, using image analysis (DP 12). Quantitative assessment of MK and the analysis of the morphological parameters of MK were performed. MK with features of dysplasia were more frequently observed before the treatment. Additionally, a greater number of the so-called 'naked nuclei' was noticed then. Due to the effect of thalidomide, the mean number of MK increased and so did their area. During the treatment, a more frequent presence of emperipolesis was observed. The observations confirm the fact that thalidomide may cause changes in MK.

Expression of PCNA and Ki-67 in the rat submandibular gland after one year cadmium intoxication--a preliminary study

The aim of our study was to determine to what degree one-year exposure of female rats to cadmium at a dose of 5, 50 and 100 mg Cd/l affects cell proliferation in the submandibular gland, shown by PCNA and Ki-67 expression. In the present study, we found a positive nuclear reaction for PCNA in single cells in microscopic preparations of control rats. In Group I, an increase was observed in the number of PCNA-positive cells, compared to that in the control. In Group II, the number of PCNA-positive cells was markedly higher than that in Group I and in the control. In the submandibular glands of rats in Group III, the number of PCNA-positive cells was similar to that, found in Group II. However, Ki-67 expression was sporadically observed in control submandibular glands, but not in Groups I, II and III.

Apoptosis phenomenon in the selected neoplasms of the glial origin

Gliomas cause a therapeutic problem because of their localization and asymptomatic growth in the initial phase. Neoplastic growth is connected with disturbance between proliferation and apoptosis. In the study, we assessed the Bcl-2 family proteins involved in apoptosis in gliomas. The study comprised 61 patients with gliomas and based on tissue material sent for the diagnosis. Apoptosis was assessed in various types of gliomas and was defined by the apoptotic index (IA) and shown immunohistochemically with using Bcl-2, Bax and Bcl-x antibodies. The data were statistically analyzed. We found an increased percentage of the Bax (+) cells in less matured gliomas. A reverse dependence was revealed for Bcl-x. It was found that, probably in gliomas, the assessment of the Bcl-2 family proteins may serve only as an additional parameter for the evaluation of the disease course and the therapeutic success.

Histomorphometry of marrow megakaryocytes in experimental uraemia in rats

Uraemic patients frequently demonstrate tendencies towards life-threatening bleeding. Reduced platelet counts and their functional immaturity seem to be caused, among other things, by disorders in the system of marrow megakaryocytes. The aim of the study was a histomorphometric evaluation of marrow megakaryocytes in the course of experimental uraemia in rats. Uraemia was induced by means of right nephrectomy and a partial removal of the left kidney cortex in rats. Morphometric analysis was conducted, using the Microlmage program set. The number of MK, MK area, N/C, CDMK, CDNMK and MK cluster formation were analysed. Uraemic rats showed a reduction in the MK count and their area and an increase in the N/C ratio, CDMK, CDNMK and in the incidence of MK clusters. The results indicate that platelet disorders, observed in uraemia, can also be conditioned by disturbed maturation of MK.

Fine needle aspiration cytology of benign breast disease. Markers of apoptosis and proliferation

Aim of the study was to compare the fine needle aspiration cytology findings of benign breast lesions with incidence of proliferation markers and apoptosis. This study included 37 patients with palpable breast lumps, referred for USG guided FNA. FNAC were prospectively classified as C2-benign, C4-suspicious of malignancy, and C5-malignant. The specimens were simultaneously stained for Ki-67, MPM2, Bcl2 and P53. The diagnoses in group-C2 were following: simple cyst, multiple cysts, simple cyst with apocrine metaplasia, inflammatory cyst, benign dysplasia (BD) and benign solid tumors. The final diagnoses, after histopathological verification, in cases of primary classification as C4 and C5 were as follow: proliferative fibroadenoma (FAp) and breas cancer, respectively. Great majority of C2/BD aspirates were negative for proliferative antigens Ki-67 and PCNA. These antigens were detected in part of benign solid tumors, as anticipated in suspicious solid tumor, and in all of cancer aspirates. Bcl-2 immunopositive cells were detected approximately in one quarter of C2/BD, nearly in half of C2 solid tumors and in one C4/FAp. Most of diagnosed specimens were P53-negative. Immunocytodetection of Ki67, MPM2, Bcl2, P53 might be promising, supportive method in the classification of benign breast lesions. FNAC increases the reliability of diagnosis when complemented by immunocytochemical staining. It could be helpful procedure of establishing more accurately the biology of these lesions and possibly serve as an essential factor in clinical follow-up. Nevertheless, further study on larger group of patients comparing cytological and histopathological diagnosis is required to estimate reliability of its predictive value.

Expression of Ki-67, PCNA and MPM2 antigens in follicular cells of the thyroid gland after iodotherapy

Hyperfunctional nodular goitre is the most common thyroid non-neoplastic condition in endemic areas. Iodotherapy is the basic method in thyroid gland hyperfunction treatment. The aim of the study was to evaluate proliferation of thyroid follicular cells in nodular goitre after iodotherapy. The study was carried out on 32 women, 30-76 years old. Cytological and immunohistochemical evaluations were based on the material, obtained by Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy (FNAB). Proliferative activity was immunohistochemically assessed. The influence of radioiodine on thyroid follicular cells was evaluated as a difference between the proliferation of follicular cells before and after its application. It was concluded that the proliferative activity of thyroid follicular cells decreased considerably after radioiodine therapy.

A preliminary study of the submandibular gland of the rat after one-year cadmium intoxication. Part II. Pathomorphology and ultrastructure

The aim of the present study was to establish to what degree a one-year exposure of rat females to 5, 50 and 100 mg of Cd/l affects cell morphology of the submandibular glands. After one-year cadmium exposure of female rats, at doses of 5, 50 and 100 mg Cd/l, a pathomorphological examination revealed periductal fibrosis in the submandibular glands of rats in all the three experimental groups, which increased with cadmium dose. We also found foamish cytoplasm in the cells of the submandibular glands in all the experimental groups, the intensity of that phenomenon also increasing with Cd dose. The ultrastructural examination revealed no abnormalities in Group I. However, in Groups II and III, we observed numerous granules with a secretion, varying in shape and size that filled up the cytoplasm both in the mucous and serous cells.

A preliminary study of the submandibular gland of the rat after one-year cadmium intoxication. Part I. Cadmium concentration

The aim of the present study was to establish to what degree a one-year exposure of rat females to 5, 50 and 100 mg Cd/l affects the weight of the submandibular glands and their cadmium levels. We observed a decrease in the weight of the submandibular glands in the rat females from Groups I, II and III, compared to the control rats. We also found an increase in cadmium levels in the submandibular glands in Groups I, II and III, in comparison to the control. The highest cadmium concentration was noted in the submandibular glands in Group III, which was accompanied by the greatest weight reduction, the correlation being negative. The present experiment indicates that one-year administration of cadmium to rat females at a dose of 5, 50 and 100 mg Cd/l leads to a cadmium dose-dependent decrease in the weight of the submandibular glands.

Proliferative activity of chosen central nervous system (CNS) neoplasms

Gliomas are the most common neoplastic tumours of the central nervous system. The aim of the study was to evaluate the proliferative activity of chosen types of gliomas and to analyse their correlation with histological type, malignancy grade, location, size and clinical symptoms. The study involved patients with astrocytoma, anaplastic astrocytoma, glioblastoma, oligodendroglioma, anaplastic oligodendroglioma. The proliferative activity (the labelling index--LI) of glial cells was estimated, using immunohistochemistry. In studied groups, a positive correlation was noted between the proliferative activity and tumour size, but not between the proliferative activity and tumour location. The clinical symptoms were conditioned mainly by tumour location and, to a smaller extent, by its size.

Proliferative activity of papillary carcinoma and benign papillary hyperplasia of thyroid follicular cells

Papillary structures of follicular cells are observed in nodular goiter, cysts, hyperplastic areas of follicular tumors, Graves' disease, thyroiditis and carcinomas. The distinction of papillary carcinomas from benign lesions has important implication for clinical management. The aim of the study was to test a marker of proliferation activity (MIB-1) in the diagnosis of benign and malignant thyroid papillary proliferation. The study was carried out in 98 women with papillary carcinoma, nodular goiter. intracystic proliferation. Graves' disease and hyperplastic areas of follicular benign tumors. The formalin fixed, paraffin-embedded specimens were microscopically examined using HE staining and immunostaining with MIB-1 antibody (DAKO). The proliferative index (PI) was significantly higher in malignant than in benign papillary hyperplasia. Our results may provide additional information for differential papillary proliferation diagnosis by FNAB.

Protein kinase C involvement in proliferation and survival of breast cancer cells

Members of protein kinase C (PKC) family have been widely implicated in the regulation of cell proliferation, differentiation and survival. Increased protein C activity in malignant breast tissue and in most aggressive breast cancer cell lines suggests possible role of PKC in the development and progression of breast cancer. PKC may be therefore a target for breast cancer treatment. In our study we attempted to investigate the effect of: phorbol ester (PMA)-PKC activator, and bisindolylmaleimide II (GF II), a highly selective PKC inhibitor, on the proliferation as well as induction of apoptosis and necrosis in breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231. Our results provide evidence for multidirectional effects of PKC on the proliferation of this type of breast cancer cells. The effects of both compounds were different after short time of exposition (1-3 h). PMA induced proliferation, while GF II showed an opposite effect. After 24 h, however, both compounds exhibited relatively high inhibitory effect on the proliferation and proved to be effective in induction of necrosis and apoptosis.

Proliferative activity of the thyroid oxyphilic tumor cells estimated by means of quantitative analysis of silver stained nucleolar organizer regions (AgNORs)

Promising results of studies on different neoplasms, by means of morphometric analysis of argyrophilic nucleolar organizer regions (AgNORs), known as proliferative activity marker, made us undertake an attempt to evaluate of proliferative activity in Hürthle Cell Tumors using the same technique. 78 cases including 20 Hürthle Cell Carcinomas (HCC), 32 Hürthle Cell Adenomas (HCA) and 26 hyperplastic nodules with Hürthle Cell Metaplasia (HCM), diagnosed in the Department of Clinical Pathology, Medical Academy of Bialystok in the years 1990-2000, were subjected to analysis. For visualization of the NORs we used the D. Ploton et al. technique. Mean AgNOR count and NORDS (NOR distribution score--the percentage of nuclei with at least 5 argyrophilic granules) were estimated in each case in 100 randomly chosen nuclei. Non-parametric Mann-Whitney U-test was applied to determine statistically significant differences.

RESULTS

Mean AgNoRs counts and NORDS values were 5.1 and 52%, 3.4 and 26%, 2.5 and 7% in HCC, HCA and HCM respectively. Statistically significant differences were found between AgNORs counts in carcinomas and adenomas (p<0.01), HCCs and HCMs (p<0.005) and betwveen NORDS in all groups (p<0.001).

Megakaryocytes emperipolesis in bone marrow of the patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma

Emperipolesis of hematopoietic cells within the cytoplasm of the megakaryocytes was most often described in association with various pathologic conditions. The aim of the research was estimation of the incidence of emperipolesis in the bone marrow of the patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). 30 patients with different histological types of NHL (chronic lymphocytic leukaemia--CLL, hairy cell leukaemia--HCL, multiple myeloma--MM) in compliance with clinical stage of the disease, patient's age and sex were analyzed. Trephine biopsies of the bone marrow were carried out in fixative solution and paraffin embedding. Hematoxylin and eosin and monoclonal antibody CD 61 were applied on thin sections. Phenomenon of megakaryocytic emperipolesis in human bone marrow was found in 6 cases: in 5 cases in CLL and in 1 case in HCL. In most of them emperipolesis was related to single megakaryocytes. We observed in the cytoplasm of the megakaryocytes single hematopietic cells-most often lymphocytes, rarely eosinophilic granulocytes. We found no correlations between histological types of NHL, clinical stage of the disease, patients' age, sex and the incidence of megakaryocytic emperipolesis.

MIB-I as a proliferative activity marker of the multiform glioblastomas

MIB-I is a proliferative activity marker of multiform glioblastomas which are the most frequent tumors of the central nervous system. They are characterizad by differential rate and prognosis. The aim of the study was to determine the proliferative activity of multiform glioblastomas and estimation of the correlation between tumors' proliferative activity and tumors' localization, size, patients' age and sex. 24 patients (18 females and 6 males) with multiform glioblastomas were analyzed. The mean patients' age was 52.1. The proliferative activity was calculated as a proliferation index: IP for MIB-I. Cells with positive reaction were determined by MIB-I which was compared to all neoplastic cells. The most frequent localization of the tumors were frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. The size of the tumors ranged from 2.5 to 5.3 cm (mean 3.9). Mean IP was 43.2 (SD+/-17.4). We found no correlation between IP MIB-I and localization of the tumor, patients' age and sex. There was a marginal statistically significant correlation between IP MIB-I and size of the tumor (p=0.005).

The influence of glyco-nitric oxide conjugate on proliferation of breast cancer cells in vitro

The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of a nitric oxide donor: Glyco-2-SNAP on the proliferation status of two breast cancer cell lines: MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7. The study was performed by the thymidine incorporation method as well as by the immunocytochemical detection of the Ki-67 antigen. We found that the donor significantly inhibits the process of proliferation. The effect of the Glyco-2-SNAP is significant in both lines, however stronger in MDA -MB-231 cells where the donor at 100 microM inhibited DNA synthesis from 70462.000 dpi (SD +/-2066.175, n=4) for control to about 3120.250 dpi (SD +/-971.689 n=4). In UCF-7 cells the control gave 31142.500 dpi (SD +/-712.9214, n=4) and the treatment with 100 microM of Glyco-2 SNAP resulted in 4095.50 dpi. (SD +/-315.723, n=4). In both lines SNAP, classical NO donor also had an inhibitory effect but much higher concentrations. Ki-67 protein expression was significantly influenced by Glyco-2-SNAP at 100 microM (42.5% +/-6.45) concentrations in MDA-MB 231. No effect of G-SNAP was seen in MCF-7 cells. The control staining for both lines was about 90%. Our results presesent the possibility of exploiting a novel kind of NO donor as a potential mode of treatment that may be an alternative to classical therapeutic strategies in breast cancer.

[Magnetic resonance proton spectroscopy in neurooncology--preliminary report]

MR proton spectroscopy (1H MRS) has been widely applied in characterisation and differentiation of brain tumors, staging, recurrence of pathologic process, post radiotherapy changes and other lesions mimicking neoplasm like abscesses. Despite of many studies performed over last 3 years in many countries spectroscopic pattern (phenotype) of brain tumors is still not well estimated and the role of each metabolite as an indicator of histopathologic grade and type of the tumor is still unknown.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In vivo 1H MR spectroscopy was prospectively performed in 36 patients with intracranial tumors (low grade gliomas, high grade gliomas, meningiomas and abscesses). Examinations was performed with 1.5 T system, using voxels of 8 cc.

RESULTS

In high grade gliomas level of NAA was decreased, and consequently low ratios of NAA to other metabolites were obtained; lactate and choline peaks were markedly increased. In patients with meningiomas signal of NAA was reduced, while in abscesses group peaks of acetate and succinate were observed. Authors analysed ratios of metabolites in above-mentioned tumors. The method is especially useful in differential diagnosis in neoplastic and nonneoplastic cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study confirms diagnostic value of 1H MRS in doubtful cases of intracranial tumors.

13-cis retinoic acid and all-trans retinoic acid in the regulation of the proliferation and survival of human breast cancer cell line MCF-7

Retinoids are a group of compounds which inhibit cell proliferation and induce cellular differentiation. The aim of this study was to compare the antiproliferative activity of various concentrations of 13-cis retinoic acid (isotretinoin) and all-trans retinoic acid (tretinoin) in a culture of the estrogen-sensitive human breast cancer cell line MCF-7. Evaluation was based on [3H]thymidine incorporation into the cancer cells and through immunocytochemical analysis of cell cycle-associated PCNA and Ki-67 protein expression. Both retinoids inhibited [3H]thymidine incorporation into the cancer cells most effectively at a concentration of 3x10(-3) M. Two basic substances used for line MCF-7 culture experiments, one stimulating - estradiol - and the other inhibiting - tamoxifen - were applied. Estradiol added to a culture containing decreasing concentrations of isotretinoin (from 3x10(-3) to 3x10(-8) M) caused a statistically significant reduction in the percentage of [3H]thymidine incorporation into the cancer cell line MCF-7, compared to the 17 beta estradiol group (189.25%+/-62.64, control=100%, p<0.05). In the group of decreasing tretinoin concentrations, statistically significant differences were found only at 3x10(-3), 3x10(-4) and 3x10(-8) M. Following culture supplementation with tamoxifen (1 microM), statistically significant differences were observed only at the highest concentrations of both retinoids (3x10(-3) and 3x10(-4) M). The evaluation of breast carcinoma cells with a positive immunocytochemical reaction to PCNA and Ki-67 has revealed that isotretinoin reduces their percentage in the most determined and statistically significant way (38.00%+/-2.58 and 39.25%+/-3.09), compared to the control group (86.50%+/-9.20 and 100%+/-3.87, p<0.001 and p<0.0001) and to the estradiol group (87.00%+/-6.79 and 86.10%+/-7.0, p<0.001). Apart from their blocking effect on the cell cycle, retinoids also induce the apoptotic pathway.

A rare localization of Hodgkin's disease in the breast--a case report

In this paper we present a rare localization of Hodgkin's disease--in the breast. An awareness of such unusual clinical presentation of Hodgkin's disease is important to prevent a delay in diagnosis and treatment.

The giant dermoid cyst of the scalp mimicking skull tumour. Case report

Dermoid cysts are common benign tumours mainly observed in the hairy skin of head. We present the case of cyst with untypical course of disease, diagnosed and treated in our hospital. The initial diagnosis with use of computed tomography (CT) scanner suggested a neoplasm of the skull.

Does chronic ethanol administration have influence on pancreatic regeneration in the course of caerulein induced acute pancreatitis in rats

This study was undertaken in order to determine the influence of chronic ethanol administration on pancreatic regeneration during acute pancreatitis (AP). Rats were pair fed with isocaloric diet containing or not ethanol. After 8 weeks of such feeding AP was induced by s.c. injection of caerulein (Cae). 6 h, 24 h and 5 days after first Cae dose pancreatic weight, amylase, chymotrypsin, protein, RNA, DNA contents were determined and phosphatidic acid (PA) production in isolated pancreatic acini was measured. Proliferating cells were quantified by immunochemical staining of cells incorporating bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU).

RESULTS

Pancreatic weight was significantly higher at 6 h after first Cae injection in both, ethanol fed (EF) and control groups (C), however at 24 h pancreatic weight did not differ from prior to AP induction in EF rats. Ethanol feeding (EF) did not influence significantly protein, chymotrypsin and amylase content in pancreatic tissue in groups with AP. In EF rats RNA content after 5 days of AP was higher than in control animals. Total DNA content in EF rats with AP was lower 6 h after AP induction, earlier than in control animals with AP. Immunochemistry showed higher labelling index for BrdU after 6 h, 24 h and 5 days of AP in EF rats. In contrast to this findings, in EF animals, AP induction was not able to stimulate further PA accumulation.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that chronic ethanol feeding, while inhibiting PA accumulation in comparison to control group, does not impair pancreatic tissue regeneration during the early phase of Cae-induced AP. Stimulation of regenerative/reparative processes in EF rats during Cae-induced AP seems to be even more pronounced than in the control group.

Neoplasms of the central nervous system of lipoid origin

In general tumours of lipoid origin are benign. A high proportion of cases are mesenchymal neoplasms localised in subcutaneous tissue. Neurological signs related to compression of neural structures by fat within the vertebral canal were first presented in 1975. The lipogenic neoplasms represent 1-4% of spinal tumours, and generally are associated with congenital disorders of the spine. These fatty swellings are usually benign, but penetrating deeply into the spine, and connecting with spinal cord, cauda equina or filium terminale, they produce deficits. The deficits may be present at birth but they may also occur in the middle age. These events are classified as epidural lipomatosis (mostly observed in patients on chronic steroid treatment) or as lipoma, common in spinal disraphism. Intracranial tumours of lipoid origin are very rare (0.06-0.5% of brain tumours), and are probably congenital. They occur anywhere within the cranium, however a high proportion of cases tend to be located around the midline, and approximately 50% of tumours are found in the corpus callosum. Usually they are asymptomatic, and when the symptoms occur, they are frequently a result of general clinical condition. The authors present three cases of lipomatous tumours; one intracranial and two of spinal location.

[Malignant fibrous histiocytoma (fibrohistiocytoma malignum) localized intracranially]

Primary intracranial malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH) is an extremely rare occurrence, however this kind of neoplasm is observed among the sarcomas. The aim of this report is to present a case of malignant fibrous histiocytoma in a 22 years-old woman. The control examination performed five years after operation revealed only mild exophthalmus and visual disturbances as presented before surgery.

[Power Doppler as a method that is better than color Doppler for evaluation of thyroid nodular lesions]

AIM

The evaluation of usefulness of color Doppler sonography and power Doppler sonography in the diagnostics of thyroid nodules with the low or absent uptake of (99m)Tc-pertechnate. Although scintigraphy is highly sensitive method in the diagnosis of cold nodules it is non-specific in the diagnostics of malignant changes of thyroid. We tried to investigate the possibility to improve the diagnostic accuracy of sonography.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

122 cold thyroid nodules were investigated with linear 7.5 Mhz Doppler probe. The flow pattern in power Doppler and color Doppler were correlated with cytologic and histopathologic examination.

RESULTS

According to cytology, PD has better sensitivity and specificity than CD; consecutively-100% vs. 86.6% and 93.4% vs. 84.1%.

CONCLUSIONS

1. Power Doppler can detect low blood flow in small blood vessels, observed in thyroid cancer. 2. Power Doppler allows the best nodules selection for fine-needle biopsy than color Doppler.

Preliminary evaluation of influence of gemcitabine (Gemzar) on proliferation and neuroendocrine activity of human TT cell line: immunocytochemical investigations

The choice treatment of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is total thyroidectomy. It is difficult to evaluate effectiveness of chemotherapy due to the rare incidence of MTC. Gemcitabine is a new drug of antimetabolite nucleoside group used in treatment of cancers since 1996. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of gemcitabine on proliferation and neuroendocrine activity of human TT cell line derived from MTC. The cells were exposed to gemcitabine in the concentration of 10, 25 and 50 microg/ml for 24 hours. Immunocytochemical examinations were carried out by the method of avidin-biotin peroxidase complex (ABC) according to Hsu et al. to detect calcitonin, chromogranin A, synaptophysin and neuron-specific enolase in TT cells. A concentration-dependent inhibitory influence of gemcitabine on proliferative activity of TT cells was observed. It was also shown that the immunostaining was reduced, especially in case of neuron-specific enolase. Only the reaction detecting calcitonin was enhanced in persistin

Preliminary immunohistochemical investigations of human thyroid C cells in the simple and hyperactive nodular goitre

The aim of this study was to carry out histomorphological and immunohistochemical analysis of thyroid C cells in 30 patients with simple goitre and hyperactive goitre including Graves-Basedow (G-B) disease, treated surgically. Four tissue samples were always taken from the same internal parts of the gland where the number of C cells in physiological conditions was the highest. C cells were detected in paraffin sections after impregnation with silver salt (Grimelius method) or immunohistochemically, with antibodies against calcitonin, synaptophysin, chromogranin A and neuron-specific enolase. Distinctly less numerous C cells were found in simple and hyperactive goitre than in normal thyroid parenchyma. The majority of C cells showed weak intensity of the examined immunohistochemical reactions. C cells were not observed at all in the texture of nodules well separated by the connective tissue. Proliferative changes concerned only follicular cells.

[Biochemical mechanism of raloxifen and tamoxifen action for the prevention of breast cancer. Studies in vitro]

Cancer growth follows fine balance disturbance between cell proliferation, differentiation and death. It has been shown that mutation of 4 to 5 genes controlling cellular proliferation events may be contributive to carcinogenesis. Estrogens play a central role in reproductive physiology. They are also a causative factors in the pathogenesis of neoplastic and non-neoplastic diseases, including breast cancer. The estrogen dependency of human breast cancer has been successfully exploited in the treatment of early and advanced diseases and provides a unique opportunity for chemoprevention of this common malignancy. The aim of present study was to examine the effects of tamoxifen and raloxifen on the induction of apoptosis and proliferative activity of human breast adenocarcinoma MCF-7 cells. It has been found that both tamoxifen and raloxifen decreased the speed of cell cycle in MCF-7 cells and acts as proapoptotic factors. It reduces viability of cancer cells and probability of neoplastic clone multiplification. This effect conducts to limitation of cancer expansion.

Influence of estrogen, antiestrogen and UV-light on the balance between proliferation and apoptosis in MCF-7 breast adenocarcinoma cells culture

Studies of the mechanism of actions of estrogen, antiestrogen and physical factors may provide clues to an understanding of breast cancer growth and/or regression regulation and thus identify novel targets for therapeutic intervention. Defective control of apoptosis appears to play a central role in the pathogenesis of neoplasia. Conversely, cancer therapy and ionizing radiation can induce cancer cell death by apoptosis and/or necrosis. bcl-2 gene and p-53 gene products have been both linked to programmed cell death pathways. We have analyzed the effect of estradiol, tamoxifen and UV exposure on the induction of apoptosis, expression of p53 and bcl-2 gene products as well as the proliferative activity (expressed as [3H]thymidine incorporation and PCNA and MPM2 antigens involvement) in MCF7. It has been found that estradiol increases the speed of cell cycle in MCF7 and acts as antiapoptotic factor. Tamoxifen has multiple influence on the rate of growth of cancer cells: depends on estrogen receptor (ER), conducts reduction of proliferation rate; depends on ER and other mechanisms conducts to suppressions of Bcl-2 protein expression and induction of cell death through apoptotic pathway. Estradiol prevents the apoptotic influence of tamoxifen probably by enhancement of Bcl-2 protein expression and does not prevent the inhibition of proliferation rate. The irradiation with UV induces apoptosis by over-expression of p53 and down-regulation of bcl-2 gene.

[Mast cell of upper gastrointestinal tract mucosa and Helicobacter pylori infection in children]

Using histological, immunohistochemical and electron microscopic examinations of gastric and duodenal mucosa the authors showed the increase in the number of mast cells with ultrastructural changes characteristic of their degranulation in H. pylori infected children. The damage of various intensification in glandular and covering epithelial cells and the inflammatory response were also proved. The results suggest the role of mastocytes in the inflammation of gastric and duodenal mucosa in H. pylori infected children.

[Lymphocytic response of gastric and duodenal mucosa in Helicobacter pylori infection in children]

The authors evaluated morphologically gastric and duodenal mucosa in H. pylori infection in children. Fenotypic evaluation of T lymphocytes carried out in patients showed the increase in number of these cells in gastric antrum and corpus mucosa in comparison with controls according to the level of mucosal inflammation. B lymphocytes in inflamed gastric mucosa were dispersed as lamina propria infiltrates or in clusters (lymph nodules).

Evaluation of selected cytokines and mononuclear cell infiltration in gastric mucosa of children with food allergy

The authors performed simultaneous evaluation of histological changes in gastric and duodenal mucosa, phenotypic evaluation of mononuclear cells infiltration and the levels of selected cytokines of gastric mucosa in children with diagnosed food allergy. It was determined that IL-4, IL-5, IL-10 and TNF-alpha were produced locally within alimentary tract mucosa; they may play pathogenic role in food hypersensitivity in children. Increase in the number of T lymphocytes (CD3+, CD8+) and B lymphocytes (CD20+) as well as mastocytes with positive reaction to Mast Cell Tryptase-Mastocyte antibody was also observed in gastric and duodenal mucosa of these patients.

Triazine dyes as inhibitors and affinity ligands of glycosyltransferases

The triazine dyes: Cibacron Blue 3GA, Reactive Red 120, Reactive Yellow 86, Reactive Green 19, Reactive Blue 4, Reactive Brown 10 inhibited the activity of a purified preparation of alpha1,6fucosyltransferase (GDP-L-fucose: N-acetyl beta-glucosaminide 6-alpha-L-fucosyltransferase, EC 2.4.1.68) from human blood platelets. Cibacron Blue 3GA and Reactive Red 120 were examined for the nature of the inhibition and both were found to be competitive inhibitors of the enzyme, with Ki = 11 microM and 2 microM, respectively. The two dyes inhibited also serum glycosyltransferases: alpha1,2fucosyltransferase (GDP-L-fucose: beta-D-galactosyl-R2-alpha-L-fucosyltransferase, EC 2.4.1.69), beta1,4galactosyltransferase (UDP-galactose: N-acetyl-D-glucosamine 4-beta-D-galactosyltransferase, EC 2.4.1.90) and beta1,3N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase (UDP-GlcNAc: 4-beta-D-galactosyl-D-glucose). Cibacron Blue 3GA was a more effective inhibitor of the glycosyltransferases that use UDP-linked sugar donors than Reactive Red 120 while the latter was a stronger inhibitor of the fucosyltransferases that use GDP-linked donor. All four glycosyltransferases could be affinity purified on Cibacron Blue 3GA-Agarose columns. The order of elution of glycosyltransferases from the columns with solutions of 0.25-1.0 M potassium iodide also depended upon the structure of nucleotide sugar donor, i.e. whether it contained UDP or GDP. Thus, triazine dyes should interact with the sugar donor binding sites of glycosyltransferases. The main advantages of the use of triazine dyes as affinity ligands for isolation of glycosyltransferases are their universal applicability regardless of enzyme specificity, low cost, and insensitivity to high concentration of other proteins present in the solution.

[Surgical management in the non-neoplastic and neoplastic thyroid goiter with Hürthla cells]

The routine preoperative cytological evaluation of pathological changes of the thyroid more and more frequently reveals single or multiple Hürthl cells in the material obtained by the method of fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNA). Hürthl cells are a degenerative form of epithelial follicular cells of the thyroid and cytological examination is insufficient for unequivocal differentiation between adenoma and carcinoma. Management of patients with FNA-diagnosed Hürthl cells arouses a number of controversies. Therefore, the authors of the present study subjected the thyroids of patients with cytologically diagnosed Hürthl cells to postoperative histopathological analysis. Appropriate surgical management was indicated.

[Surgical treatment of thyroid disease in adolescents]

Surgical treatment of goitre in children and teenagers under 18 is relatively rare and undertaken for strict therapeutic indications. It still arouses much controversy among surgeons, being loaded with a high percentage of complications, usually distant ones. The aim of the study was to analyse the surgical treatment of various goitre types under the age of 18 basing on 65 operations performed in the years 1994-1998. Operations for non-toxic and hyperactive nodular goitre, including Graves-Basedow disease, were predominant. Five cases of thyroid carcinoma were found. No serious complications were observed during and after the surgery. Our own material and the 5-year observation reveal that surgical treatment of thyroid diseases in children and adolescents carried out for definite indications by an experienced operating team is successful and causes only few complications.

[Tumor DNA content as a prognostic indicator in squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx]

Celluar DNA content has been found to be an important prognostic factor in many head and neck tumours, yet within the larynx few studies have examined its effect on survival. 31 patients with squamous carcinoma of the larynx treated in years 1983-85 by total laryngectomy were studied. The tumours were classified according to the TNM classification 1987 and graded histopathologically according to Jaccobson's classification. Quantitative DNA content was determined with the use of image cytometry performed by an image analyzer (CAS-200). Quantitative DNA analysis correlated with tumor grade and patient outcome within 6 years of follow-up.

Overexpression of the nucleolar organizer regions (NORs) in the thyroid follicular tumours. Comparison of the cytological and histopathological examinations

The aim of the study was to determine the usefulness of the expression of argyrophilic nucleolar organizer region proteins (AgNORs) as a marker of malignancy degree in thyroid follicular tumours. The study used the postoperative material of thyroid glands and cytologic material obtained with fine needle aspiration biopsy. Follicular adenoma, carcinoma and struma nodosa hyperplastica-type changes were analysed. The comparison of the AgNOR parameters examined revealed statistically significant differences between the groups of follicular carcinoma and follicular adenoma, follicular carcinoma and nodular goitre, and between adenoma and nodular goitre. However, the "overlapping" of value ranges was observed between the groups of follicular carcinoma and adenoma, as well as follicular adenoma and nodular goitre. This referred particularly to atypical adenoma parameters found within a non-diagnostic range. No differences were observed in the counts of AgNOR dots between histologic and cytologic material obtained with fine needle aspiration biopsy.

[Chylomicronemia syndrome complicating type 1 hyperlipoproteinemia with concomitant insulin-dependent diabetes]

The case of chylomicronaemia syndrome complicating clinical course of type-1 hyperlipoproteinaemia and insulin-dependent diabetes is described. The patient required hypoglycaemic and lipid-lowering therapy.

[Expression of p53 protein and proliferative activity in multiform glioblastoma]

The aim of the study of 41 multiform glioblastomas was the analysis of p53-protein immunoreactivity in neoplastic cells and evaluation of relationship of this biologic marker to tumour proliferation activity. Positive p53 expression was observed in 24 (58.5%) tumours, the negative one in 17 tumours (41.5%). Proliferation indexes of PCNA, anti-Ki6 and AgNORs showed high values in the multiform glioblastoma p53 positive group, but without statistical differences in comparison with the group of p53-negative glioblastomas. Significant differences were observed in survival time of patients with p53 positive tumours in comparison with p53-negative ones. In 15 patients with p53-positive multiform glioblastomas survival time was less than 6 months (62.5%) on the contrary with only 4 patients with similar survival time in p53-negative glioblastoma group (23.5%). Our results suggest that p53 expression in multiform glioblastoma cells, generally considered as the indirect index of p53 suppressor gene, reflects aggressive stadium of neoplastic disease and significantly worsens the prognosis.

Ultrastructure of bone marrow megakaryocytes in experimental haemorrhagic shock in rats. I. Correlation between ultrastructure of MK nuclei and DNA ploidy

The correlation was described between the ultrastructural picture and DNA mass content of MK nuclei in experimental haemorrhagic shock in rats. Significant disproportions were revealed between the morphological pictures and the ploidy of MK nuclei in the successive phases of the shock. Abnormalities of the maturation of marrow MK nuclei were found in the first hours of the shock, being most pronounced in the 24th hour.

A comparison of the peritoneal cell population of pregnant rabbits after LPS or TNF-alpha induced septic shock

Septic shock is a catastrophic consequence of invasive infection. Unfortunately, recent advances in surgical and medical sciences have not significantly reduced the overall mortality from septic shock. Bacterial antigens stimulate a cascade of cytokine release; each cytokine helps the host to overcome infection, but their excessive production causes them to trigger events that lead to septic syndrome and shock. Tumour necrosis factor (TNF-alpha) has a pivotal role in orchestrating the events leading to septic shock. Intraperitoneal administration of certain substances can increase the number and phagocytic activity of cells, which reach naturally the site of infection. Activation of the immunity cells in the peritoneal cavity and their immunocompetence are found to be responsible for the organism protection against abdominal cavity infections. Macrophages, lymphocytes and granulocytes of low activity in the non-stimulated peritoneal cavity become significant due to the influence of numerous biologically active substances. This study was designed to determine the peritoneal response to local administration of LPS or TNF-alpha in the course of experimental septic shock.

Morphometric and ultrastructural studies of the spinal sensory ganglia in the course of sciatic nerve regeneration in rats intoxicated with ethanol

The aim of the study was to examine morphological changes in the spinal dorsal ganglia (from which sensory fibres of the sciatic nerve extend) in animals intoxicated with ethanol, in which the sciatic nerve was transected and then sutured. By means of morphometric methods using a computer system of picture analysis and in ultrastructural examinations it was found that ethanol administered to rats to drink for 3 months caused only slight morphological alterations in the sensory nerve cells of the spinal vertebral ganglia on the non-operated side. However, ethanol or its metabolites destroyed the regenerating sensory nerve cells of the spinal vertebral ganglia of the transected and then sutured sciatic nerve.

Primary intracranial malignant fibrous histiocytoma--ultrastructural study

Malignant Fibrous Histiocytoma is the most common soft tissue sarcoma in adults with the majority of cases that occur in patients between 50-70 years and 64% of cases occurs in male. Most commonly it arises in extremities (lower 49% and upper 19%), less often in the abdomen (16%) and very rare in head localization (3%) [5]. Typically macroscopically it is a multilobulated, gray-white, fleshy mass between 5-20 cm of diameter. In light microscopy this tumour has a highly variable morphologic pattern and manifests a broad range of histological appearance. It has been classified into the following subtypes: storiform-pleomorphic, myxoid, giant cell, inflammatory and angiomatoid. The first two subtypes are more frequent than others. The aim of this report is to present the electronmicroscopic features of giant cell type of MFH localized in head.

Ultrastructure of bone marrow megakaryocytes in experimental haemorrhagic shock in rats. II. Correlation between ultrastructure of MK cytoplasm and thrombopoiesis

Ultrastructural evaluation was performed of the MK cytoplasm in the successive phases of experimental haemorrhagic shock in rats. Qualitative abnormalities were revealed in the intracytoplasmic structures of MK. Platelets in the circulating blood were evaluated. A correlation was found between the changes in the intracytoplasmic organelles and the number and biological activity of blood cells. The results obtained indicate significant disturbances in the functioning of the thrombopoietic system in experimental haemorrhagic shock, which are caused by alterations within the intracytoplasmic structures of MK and lead to platelet production from morphologically differentiated but functionally immature MK.

Cyclophosphamide in diffuse lung damage

Some cyclophosphamide toxic effects on lung tissue are presented. Cyclophosphamide metabolism, pathogenesis of lung damage and morphological lung tissue changes caused by that agent were characterized. Attention was focused on BAL evaluation as a useful method in the monitoring of lung tissue damage degree.

Influence of endotoxin on the level of tumor necrosis factor alfa and blood morphology in rats

The influence of endotoxin E.coli O127 B:8 given intravenously or intraperitoneally on the level of Tumor Necrosis Factor alfa (TNF-alpha), blood cells count and bone marrow morphology in rats was studied. The presented results show that endotoxin (3 mg/kg) given intravenously or intraperitoneally (1 or 3 times) provoked an appearance of TNF-alpha in the systemic circulation 24 hours after its injection. Endotoxin given intravenously evoked greater changes in blood morphology and bone marrow than that applicated intraperitoneally.

Colour doppler sonography guided percutaneous fine-needle biopsy of the liver

Between 1992 and 1997, every year, approximately 30,000 examinations of the liver and bile ducts were done. Addition of colour Doppler imaging improves safety of procedures and allowed to perform ultrasound guided biopsy in 73 patients. On the basis of our experience we state that colour Doppler sonography guided percutaneous fine needle biopsy of the liver is useful, sufficient and safety diagnostic method of abscesses, cysts and malignant tumours of the liver.

[Chronic cor pulmonale--a disease of the right or both ventricle(s) of the heart?]

Some aspects of the development of chronic cor pulmonale have been presented. Special attention has been paid to the possibility of simultaneous formation of changes in the muscle of both ventricles of the heart and to an increase in the number of capillaries in the myocardium in the early stage of this disease. Angiogenesis, the role of hypoxia and endothelins in the pathogenesis of these changes have been discussed.