Quest for breathing: proliferation of alveolar type 1 cells.

There is much evidence that the vertebrate lung originated from a progenitor structure which was present in bony fish. However, critical basic elements for the evolution of breathing in tetrapods, such as the central rhythm generator sensitive to CO2/pH and the pulmonary surfactant, were present in the lungless primitive vertebrate. This suggests that the evolution of air breathing in all vertebrates may have evolved through exaptations. It appears that the capability for proliferation of alveolar type 1 (AT1) cells is the "critical factor" which rendered possible the most radical subsequent innovation-the possibility of air breathing. "Epithelial remodeling," which consists in proliferation of alveolar cells-the structural basis for gas diffusion-observed in the alimentary tract of the gut-breathing fishes (GBF) has great potential for application in biomedical research. Such a process probably led to the gradual evolutionary development of lungs in terrestrial vertebrates. Research on the cellular and molecular mechanisms controlling proliferation of squamous epithelial cells in the GBF should contribute to explaining the regeneration-associated phenomena that occur in mammal lungs, and especially to the understanding of signal pathways which govern the process.

The gill monogenean Sciadicleithrum variabilum induces histomorphological alterations in the gill tissues of the discus Symphysodon aequifasciatus.

High mortality is among the most serious problems and challenges in the ornamental fish trade. Examination of the discus Symphysodon aequifasciatus from ornamental fish hatchery revealed infestation with the monogenean Sciadicleithrum variabilum. Gill infestation with this monogenean induced serious damage to the gill lamellae, including clavate lamellae, vascular congestion in the peripheral blood vessels, lamellar blood sinus dilation, and other structural anomalies. Light and transmission electron microscopy showed that in all infested hosts the interlamellar cell mass (ILCM) completely filled the interlamellar space. The monogenean-associated damage combined with the ILCM led to severe impairment of respiratory efficiency of the gill. Anti-parasitic treatment was applied during breeding (hatchery), which was followed by almost complete regression of the ILCM seen in the fish. A single point of ILCM hyperplasia was observed in only one specimen at the site of parasite attachment to the gill filament. The ILCM covering the gill lamellae protected the discus against infestation with this monogenean, but considerable reduction in the gaseous exchange surface and serious damage to the gill lamellae contributed to the increased mortality of the fish in the hatchery, which reached 90%.

Chemoreceptors as a key to understanding carcinogenesis process.

The tissue organization field theory (TOFT) presented completely new, different from the previous one, perspective of research on neoplasm processes. It implicates that secretory neuroepithelial-like cells (NECs), putative chemoreceptors are probably responsible for the control of squamous epithelial cells proliferation in the digestive tract during hypoxia in gut breathing fish (GBF). On the other hand, chemoreceptors dysfunction can lead to uncontrolled proliferation and risk of cancer development in mammals, including humans. The studies on NECs like cells (signal capturing and transduction) may be crucial for understanding the processes of controlling the proliferation of squamous epithelial cells in the digestive tract of GBF fish during hypoxia states. This knowledge can contribute to the explanation of cancer processes.

The presence and expression of the HIF-1α in the respiratory intestine of the bronze Corydoras Corydoras aeneus (Callichthyidae Teleostei).

Bronze corydoras (Corydoras aeneus) is a small diurnal activity fish from South America. Under hypoxia conditions, it uses the posterior part of the intestine as an accessory respiratory organ. The present PCR studies demonstrated higher expression of HIF-1α (hypoxia-inducible factor) gene in the respiratory than that in digestive part of bronze corydoras intestine. Further, immunolocalization studies using antibodies specific to HIF-1α and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed the presence of HIF-1α epitopes in the intestine of Corydoras aeneus. In the respiratory intestine, the numerous clusters of gold particles visualizing HIF-1α antibody were observed within fibroblasts, whereas in the digestive tract of this species, single gold grains in the epithelial cells were noted. On the other hand, the presence of HIF-1α and the cytoplasmic domain of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in the respiratory intestine of bronze corydoras assumes their interactions in the system where these factors appeared for the first time. The non-obligatory air-breathing fishes using their digestive tract as an accessory respiratory organ during hypoxia conditions are very interesting for the studies of the processes that control HIF-1α expression and squamous cell proliferation.

[Over-the-counter Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) in the material of Poison Information Centre]. / Niesteroidowe leki przeciwzapalne (NLPZ) dostepne bez recepty w materiale Osrodka Informacji Toksykologicznej.

There were 10 636 toxicological information given in 2004-2008 by the Poison Information Center Jagiellonian University Medical College. 538 of them concerned NonSteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs); 336 cases of NSAIDs ingested alone and 202 co-ingested with other drugs and/or with ethanol. 58,9% of them were intentional and 29,6% were accidental. Children (1-6 years) and adolescents (15-19 years) were mostly involved.

From epithelial remodelling to carcinogenesis.

The novel cancer theory named 'the tissue organization field theory' (TOFT) suggests that carcinogenesis is a process analogous to embryonic development, whereby organs are formed through interactions among different cell types. The suggested 'morphological remodelling' of the epithelium under hypoxia in gut breathing fish (GBF) has many common features with carcinogenesis. It appears that research into the relationship among epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) as well as hypoxia and normoxia states in GBF fishes can be crucial in learning about the steering mechanisms of squamous epithelium proliferation, leading to a better understanding of carcinogenesis.

Lionfish envenomations in Poland.

14 injuries caused by lionfish Pterois volitans (L) kept in home aquariums were noted over a time period of 3 years. All the punctures occurred in the victims' hands. Intense pain and systemic findings observed in 11 patients. Enveno-mations had a mild course, the patients were treated for their symptoms. Toxicology information centers have also recorded 3 cases of exposure to tank-bred lionfish in which typical envenomation symptoms did not appear. Those cases were probably what is referred to as "empty stings", in which no toxin is injected into the victim's body. Empty stings are known to be made by snakes, which can consciously inject no venom, while for lionfish, the lack of exposure to venom was probably caused by the structure of the venom organ in which there was no channel to deliver the venom.

[Medical treatment during fish envenomation]. / Postepowanie w zatruciu jadami ryb.

Expositions to fish venoms should be treated as a separate group of intoxications because of their different diagnostic procedure. Until now, there are over 220 venomous fish species described, but skin excretions are potentially toxic for humans. Cases of fish envenomations (37), consulted by Poison Information Centres in Poland, as well as described in literature and contained in Micromedex database were analyzed. The course of envenomation, medical management during exposition to venomous of Chondrichthyes and Osteichthyes, freshwater and marine fishes were resolved. Injuries caused by venoms fishes were similarly treated, usually symptomatic. Specific antivenoms are available only for two fish species. Each patient exposed to sting or bite should be examined and observed. If characteristic sings and symptoms of envenomation are present, proper medical management should be proceed.

[Stinging catfish spine envenamation]. / Narazenie na jad suma indyjskiego.

The stinging catfish Heteropneustes fossilis (Bloch, 1794) has become a popular aquarium fish in Poland and is available in almost every pet shop. The toxicological centers in Cracow, Gdansk and Warsaw have recorded twelve cases of envenomations caused by stinging catfish in the years 1994-2008. In most cases the injury was accompanied by oedema, erythema, intense pain, numbness of the site and dizziness. Schema of medical management was prepared using analysis of cases.

[Clinical practice guidelines in acetaminophen poisoning--pre-hospital management]. / Wytyczne postepowania w przypadku zatrucia acetaminofenem--postepowanie przedszpitalne.

We described guidelines for personel working in poison information service in case of acute paracetamol overdose. The guidelines were created with respect to EBM (Evidence Based Medicine) by the American Association of Control Centers.

[System of biocide products control in Poland]. / System kontroli zatruc biocydami w Polsce.

In this article we presented actual legislation concerning biocide products in Poland. Rules of reporting and archiving of biocide products exposure were discussed. We presented the first results of monitoring of biocide poisoning cases in Poland from July 2007 to June 2008.

Differential expression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in stomach and diverticulum of Otocinclus affinis (Steindachner, 1877) as a potential element of the epithelium remodeling mechanism.

It is suggested that due to the several stomach modifications, Otocinculus affinis (dwarf sucking catfish) possess the ability to breathe air during hypoxia, however, the exact mechanism remains unknown. The aim of this study was detailed analysis of the expression of EGFR in the stomach and diverticulum of the O. affinis at the mRNA and protein levels together with the immunohistochemical localization of EGFR in these organs. The intensity of band fluorescence corresponding to the EGFR gene expression level is significantly higher in the stomach than in the diverticulum. Further, quantitative analysis of EGFR protein abundance also revealed its higher synthesis in the stomach than in the diverticulum and the immunohistochemistry method confirmed these results. As regional localization of respiratory function in gut air-breathing fishes seems to be connected with "morphological remodeling" of the epithelium of their gut, the present research demonstrated the potential efficiency of the O. affinis stomach as a respiratory organ. Having the potential possibility to create an air-blood barrier in the gastrointestinal tract allowing gas diffusion and respiration in hypoxic states seems to be very beneficial for these fish. It seems that facultative gut air breathing fish species are a relevant vertebrate model for high throughput screening, vascular biology and evolution.

Catfish stings and the venom apparatus of the African catfish Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822), and stinging catfish Heteropneustes fossilis (Bloch, 1794).

The ability of catfish to inflict extremely painful wounds with their pectoral and dorsal stings has been well known for many decades. The venom apparatus of the African catfish Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822), and stinging catfish Heteropneustes fossilis (Bloch, 1794) is constituted by a single, sharp and stout sting immediately in front of the soft-rayed portion of the pectoral fins. The sting has well developed articulations, making it possible for it to become erect and locked. The toxicological centres in Poland have recorded 17 cases of envenomations caused by stinging catfish and African catfish; the injury was accompanied by intense pain, numbness of the site, dizziness, local oedema and erythema. In addition, systemic symptoms such as tachycardia, weakness and arterial hypotension were observed. The treatment of these injuries should include cleansing of the wound and surrounding area. Immersion of the wounded extremity in hot water (45 degrees C) was used for the pain control. An attempt to remove any spinal sheath or remnant must be undertaken. Antibiotic management depends on several factors: the age and immune status of the victim, the interval between injury and presentation, or the presence of a foreign body. The most serious long-term complications of sting envenomation involve infections.

Confirmation of the immunoreactivity of monoclonal anti-human C-terminal EGFR antibodies in bronze Corydoras Corydoras aeneus (Callichthyidae Teleostei) by Western Blot method.

Bronze corydoras (Corydoras aeneus) uses the distal part of the intestine as accessory respiratory organ. Our previous study showed the presence of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) cytoplasmic domain in the digestive tract of the bronze corydoras. In this study, using Western Blot method, we validated the results presented in the previous research. In detail, results of Western Blot analysis on digestive and respiratory part of bronze corydoras intestine homogenates confirmed the immunoreactivity of anti-cytoplasmic domain (C-terminal) human EGFR antibodies with protein band of approximately 180kDa (EGFR molecular weight). This indicates a high homology of EGFR domain between these species and the possibility of such antibody use in bronze corydoras. Statistically significantly higher EGFR expression was observed in the respiratory part of intestine when compared to the digestive part. This implies higher proliferation activity and angiogenesis of epithelium in this part of intestine, creating conditions for air respiration. Therefore, Corydoras aeneus may be considered as a model organism for the molecular studies of the mechanisms of epithelial proliferation initiation and inhibition depending on hypoxia and normoxia.

Squamous epithelium formation in the respiratory intestine of the bronze Corydoras Corydoras aeneus (Callichthyidae Teleostei).

Accessory respiratory organs in fish exhibit great diversity but share the presence of numerous capillaries covered by a simple squamous epithelium. The adoption of the intestine for respiratory function needs certain special modifications. In this study, we explored immunohistochemical and metabolic fingerprint features that could underlay this adaptation in bronze corydoras Corydoras aeneus. Immunohistochemical localization of the cytoplasmic domain of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in the respiratory part of intestine demonstrated a strong positive immunoreaction in epithelial cells and connective tissue. Fourier Transfer Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy coupled with chemometrics discriminated between anterior and posterior region of intestine in terms of secondary structure of proteins and the abundance of p-cresol and other phenolics. The latter were reduced in the posterior part of intestine, indicating the cessation of digestive function in this region. It has been suggested that aquatic hypoxia via endocrine cells (hypoxia-sensitive) activate EGFR, which induce proliferation of squamous epithelial cells, thereby enabling gas diffusion in the posterior part of intestine. It seems that hypoxia and normoxia are opposed conditions adjusting the production of squamous epithelial cells in this intestine. The physiological role of EGFR in the respiratory intestine of bronze corydoras is of interest not only from an evolutionary aspect but also in terms of a potential model for observations process proliferation squamous epithelial cells. Future investigations on the molecular responses to different water oxygen levels in air-breathing bronze corydoras fish are required to clarify the mechanism responsible for squamous cell proliferation.

Panther cap Amanita pantherina poisoning case report and review.

An analysis of patients with mushroom poisoning hospitalized in the Clinic of Toxicology in Cracow revealed that only a small percentage of cases had been caused by the death cap Amanita phalloides (Vaill. ex Fr.) Secr. The most important factors contributing to intoxication are confusion of toxic mushrooms with edible species, and non-specific mushroom poisoning. The genus Amanita has a global distribution and is one of the most well-known genera of macrofungi. Active toxins present in the panther cap (A. pantherina) (DC ex Fr.) Secr are ibotenic acid and muscimol, which are rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. It is likely that other substances also participate in the psychotropic effects. Five frayed panther cap fruiting bodies were eaten by mistake by two persons (27 and 47 years of age). Symptoms onset occurred after 120 min with central nervous system (CNS) depression, ataxia, waxing and waning obtundation, religious hallucinations and hyperkinetic behaviour. In the present case, successful general symptomatic treatment was administered, which consisted of controlling the nervous symptoms and stabilizing the electrolyte balance. The poisoning regressed with no organ complications.

Fly agaric (Amanita muscaria) poisoning, case report and review.

Gathering and eating mushrooms and other plants containing psychoactive substances has become increasingly popular among young people experimenting with drugs. Dried fly agaric Amanita muscaria fruiting bodies were eaten by five young persons (18-21 years of age) at a party in order to evoke hallucinations. Visual and auditory hallucinations occurred in four of them, whereas a 18-year-old girl lost consciousness. The following morning, she went to the Clinic of Toxicology. Due to the fact that not all the active substances present in the fly agaric have been identified, and some of them have an effect after a period of latency, the patient was admitted for several days of observation during which check-up examinations were performed. After four days without any problems, she was discharged. The poisoning regressed with no organ complications. The remaining persons who had eaten the fly agaric were free from any complaints.

Suicide and the selfish gene.

The application of an evolutionary perspective to human behaviour generates philosophical, political and scientific controversy. Modern human symbolic consciousness is not the cumulation of the long trend that natural selection would predict. The new archaeological data suggested the anatomical and behavioural innovation has been episodic and rare separated by long periods of stagnate. New behavioural mode and the new skeletal structure of modem human arose as an incidental exaptation. Additionally the genetic basis dysfunction connected with suicide behaviour and growing statistic suicide among teenager is contradictory to the theory that our behaviour are programmed in any detail by selfish genes. In this cases genetically determined suicidal behaviour should be rapidly eliminated by natural selection.

[Contradiction model to prevent addictions in university students from Kraków]. / Krakowski model przeciwdzialania uzaleznieniom wsród studentów.

Students' community is a peculiar environment where the problems of psychoactive substance using has been raised for many years, whereas the real scale and extent of the phenomenon has not been appreciated enough so far. Results of the preliminary research carried on in 2000 and 2004 indicate a considerable degree of the popularity both of alcohol and drugs among students. Therefore both the continuation and widening of the activity of Polish Anti Drug Action "University Free from Abuse" is necessary. In October 2004 the Council of the Rectors of Krakow Universities came to a decision about the necessity of the beginning of an action which aims at the diagnosis and counteraction of the problems in question. In December the outpatient clinic was established with the help of the Clinic of Toxicology. It aims at the prophylaxis, diagnosis and treatment of the addiction. As to prophylaxis, lectures for the first year students have been provided. Their role is to inform about the ethanol, psychoactive substance impact as well as the action of addiction. Lectures have been connected with a public-opinion poll which led to the estimation of the scale of the problem. At the same time the Clinic has rendered both diagnostic and therapeutic service for drug users and alcoholics and their relatives from the above-mentioned environment. There are plants to spread the prophylaxis among more students. Among others the secondary prophylaxis and the creation of consulting points is our aim.

[Assessment of legal awareness regarding illicit drug use among Kraków university students]. / Badanie swiadomosci prawnej dotyczacej zjawiska narkomanii wsród studentów krakowskich wyzszych uczelni.

Social survey is a very important source of information concerned with planing the preventive strategy and protecting against problems relevant to the use of psychoactive substances. The survey covered a group of 211 first-year students from five colleges in Kraków. The students showed weak awareness of law. The respondents are of the opinion that the rules dealing with the addiction issue have been too liberal thus far. The emphasis should be put on enforcing the anti-drug law. Otherwise it will not became a powerful weapon to counteract the drug addiction. According to the opinion of respondents the trade and delivery of drugs are highly disapproving and they require inflicting stringent punishments. The results of our analysis are the integral part of Kraków model to help addicted to psychoactive substances and of prevention activities referred to the students of colleges.