Oxidative Stress Markers and Histopathological Changes in Selected Organs of Mice Infected with Murine Norovirus 1 (MNV-1).

This paper describes the effects of murine norovirus (MNV) infection on oxidative stress and histopathological changes in mice. This study uses histopathological assays, enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant markers, and total oxidative status and capacity (TOS, TAC). The results suggest that MNV infection can lead to significant changes with respect to the above-mentioned parameters in various organs. Specifically, reduced superoxide dismutase (SOD), Mn superoxide dismutase (MnSOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione reductase (GR) activities were observed in liver tissues, while higher MnSOD activity was observed in kidney tissues of MNV-infected mice when compared to the control. GR activity was lower in all tissues of MNV-infected mice tested, with the exception of lung tissue. This study also showed that norovirus infection led to increased TOS levels in the brain and liver and TAC levels in the brain, while TOS levels were significantly reduced in the kidneys. These changes may be due to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) caused by the viral infection. ROS can damage cells and contribute to oxidative stress. These studies help us to understand the pathogenesis of MNV infection and its potential effects on oxidative stress and histopathological changes in mice, and pave the way for further studies of the long-term effects of MNV infection.

Impact of Human Adenovirus 36 on Embryonated Chicken Eggs: Insights into Growth Mechanisms.

Human adenovirus 36 (HAdV-D36) is presently the sole virus identified to be associated with an elevated risk of obesity in both humans and animals. However, its impact on embryonated chicken eggs (ECEs) remains unexplored. This study endeavoured to examine the influence of HAdV-D36 on embryonic development by utilizing embryonated chicken eggs as a dynamic model. To simulate various infection routes, the allantoic cavity and the yolk sac of ECEs were inoculated with HAdV-D36. Subsequently, embryos from both the experimental (inoculated with virus) and control (inoculated with PBS) groups were weighed and subjected to daily histological examination. The daily embryo weights were assessed and compared between groups using the Shapiro-Wilk test. Histopathological changes in tissues were examined and compared between the tested and control groups to ascertain physiological alterations induced by the virus. Our study confirmed a significant increase in the body weight of ECEs. However, this phenomenon was not attributable to adipose tissue development; rather, it was characterized by an augmented number of cells in all observed tissues compared to control subjects. We posit that HAdV-D36 may impact developing organisms through mechanisms other than enhanced adipose tissue development. Specifically, our findings indicate an increased number of cells in all tissues, a phenomenon that occurs through an as-yet-unexplored pathway.

Histological characteristics of macrodontic cheek teeth of guinea pigs.

Macrodontia is the enlargement of tooth dimensions of different ethologies. This work aims to show a histological evaluation of macrodontic teeth in guinea pigs. The material was obtained from animals postmortem. Ninety structural changes derived from 24 guinea pigs were evaluated. All teeth used in the study showed macrodontic changes. The samples were decalcified, dehydrated and embedded in paraffin. Material was cut in the transverse and longitudinal planes in relation to the alveolar bone. Histological evaluation included apical bud cells, pulp cavity cells, periodontium, dentin, enamel, cementum and alveolar bone tissue. Individual elements were evaluated with respect to their morphology and distribution. Moreover, the arrangement of the individual hard tooth structures was assessed on the teeth. No atypia was found among the cells that make up the apical bud, pulp or periodontal cavity. Displacement of periodontal cells or odontoblasts towards the pulp cavity as well as disorganization of the cell system in the pulp cavity were observed. Changes in the dentine ligaments and the reconstruction of the alveolar bone were also observed in areas where dentine and cement systems were affected. Dental slides were observed and showed that the enamel is also involved in structural remodelling of the pulp cavity. The histological assessment revealed that structural changes in macrodontic teeth involve the rearrangement of typical tooth tissues.

Hemosiderin Accumulation in Liver Decreases Iron Availability in Tachycardia-Induced Porcine Congestive Heart Failure Model.

Despite advances in the management of iron deficiency in heart failure (HF), the mechanisms underlying the effects of treatment remain to be established. Iron distribution and metabolism in HF pathogenesis need to be clarified. We used a porcine tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy model to find out how HF development influences hepatic and myocardial iron storing, focusing on ferritin, the main iron storage protein. We found that cumulative liver congestion (due to the decrease of heart function) overwhelms its capacity to recycle iron from erythrocytes. As a consequence, iron is trapped in the liver as poorly mobilized hemosiderin. What is more, the ferritin-bound Fe3+ (reflecting bioavailable iron stores), and assembled ferritin (reflecting ability to store iron) are decreased in HF progression in the liver. We demonstrate that while HF pigs show iron deficiency indices, erythropoiesis is enhanced. Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system activation and hepatic hepcidin suppression might indicate stress erythropoiesisinduced in HF. Furthermore, assembled ferritin increases but ferritin-bound Fe3+ is reduced in myocardium, indicating that a failing heart increases the iron storage reserve but iron deficiency leads to a drop in myocardial iron stores. Together, HF in pigs leads to down-regulated iron bioavailability and reduced hepatic iron storage making iron unavailable for systemic/cardiac needs.

Biochemical and Molecular Investigation of the Effect of Saponins and Terpenoids Derived from Leaves of Ilex aquifolium on Lipid Metabolism of Obese Zucker Rats.

Ilex paraguariensis, the holly tree, is a plant with recognized biological properties, whose aqueous infusions are known as "Yerba mate", that regulate lipid metabolism, reduce obesity, and improve brain stimulation. In the present study, the effect of standardized saponin and terpenoid fractions of a European taxon, Ilex aquifolium, on blood biochemical parameters in a rat model of metabolic disorder, (fa/fa) Zucker, are presented. The profiles of the volatile fractions of two species and six European varieties of Ilex were investigated. After selecting the best variety, the saponin and terpenoid fractions were isolated and standardized, and animals were fed 10 mg kg−1 b.w. for 8 weeks. A statistically significant decrease in liver adiposity was observed, confirmed by histology and quantitative identification (gas chromatography−mass spectrometry analyses of hepatic lipids. RT-qPCR analysis of gene expression in the aorta revealed that the administration of the terpenoid fraction downregulated LOX-1, suggesting a reduction in atherosclerotic stimuli. In addition, a statistically significant reduction (p < 0.05) in PPARγ for the saponin fraction was observed in the liver. The expression of the ACAT-1 gene in the liver, responsible for the formation of cholesterol esters, increased significantly in the group receiving the terpenoid fraction compared to the control, which was also confirmed by the analysis of individual blood biochemical parameters. The opposite effect was observed for saponins. Taking the above into account, it is shown for the first time that Ilex aquifolium can be a source of compounds that positively influence lipid metabolism.

Influence of Incubation Time on Ortho-Toluidine Blue Mediated Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy Directed against Selected Candida Strains-An In Vitro Study.

(1) Background and the aim: The appropriate incubation time in the antimicrobial photodynamic therapy protocol seems to have a huge impact on the efficacy of this process. This is particularly important in relation to Candida strains, due to the size of these cells and the presence of the cell wall. The aims of this study were to determine the optimal incubation time needed for the absorption of toluidine blue by cells of C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. krusei and C. parapsilosis using direct observation by optical microscopy, and to evaluate the efficacy of TBO-mediated aPDT on planktonic cells of these strains. (2) Methods: The microscopic evaluation consisted of taking a series of images at a magnification of 600× and counting the % of stained cells. The in vitro effect of TBO-mediated aPDT combined with a diode laser (635 nm, 400mW, 12 J/cm2, CW) on the viability of yeast cells with different incubation times was evaluated. (3) Results: The presence of TBO within the cytoplasm was observed in all tested Candida strains and at all microscopic evaluation times. However, the highest percentages of cells were stained at 7 and 10 min. The highest % reduction of CFU/mL after TBO-mediated aPDT against Candida was obtained for the strain C. albicans ATCC 10,231 and it was 78.55%. (4) Conclusions: TBO-mediated aPDT against Candida was effective in reducing the number of CFU/mL at all assessed incubation times. However, the most efficient period for almost all strains was 7-10 min.

Effects of Nd:YAG laser irradiation on the growth of Candida albicans and Streptococcus mutans: in vitro study.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of Nd:YAG laser with flat-top handpiece on the in vitro growth of Candida albicans and Streptococcus mutans. The incidence of C. albicans (opportunistic commensal) and S. mutans (facultatively anaerobic) infections is increasing, despite available treatments. Cultures of Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans were irradiated using Nd:YAG laser (LightWalker, Fotona) with flat-top handpiece (Genova, LightWalker, Fotona) at the following parameters: group G1: 0.25 W, 10 Hz, 15 s, 3 J and group G2: 1 W, 10 Hz, 60s, 59 J. The results were evaluated directly and 24 h after irradiation using a quantitative culture method (estimation of colony-forming units in 1 ml of suspension, cfu/ml), and microscopic analysis with Janus green stain and compared with control group in which laser was not applied. C. albicans was reduced by 20 up to 54% for G1, and for G2 by 10 up to 60% directly after the application. The cfu/ml values for S. mutans decreased by 13% (p = 0.1771) for G1 and 89% (p < 0.0001) for G2. In both test groups 24 h after the application, the number of colony-forming units decreased by 15-46% for G1 and by 15-64% for G2. The arrested cell division, increasing the surface area and increasing the number of metabolically inactive cells, were observed in morphometric analysis. Macroscopic and microscopic analyses revealed a reduction in cell number and a significant decrease of cell metabolism after laser application for both C. albicans and S. mutans.

Influence of physical training on markers of bone turnover, mechanical properties, morphological alterations, density and mineral contents in the femur of rats exposed to cadmium and/or alcohol.

The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of physical training on bone parameters of rats exposed to alcohol (Al) and/or cadmium (Cd). Young female rats were divided into one control group and six groups exposed to Cd and/or Al. Al (36% calories of diet) and Cd (20 mg Cd/kg feed) were administered with liquid diet. Half of the rats from the treated groups were subjected to treadmill training (20 m/min for 0.5 h, 4 days a week). The experiment was carried out for 5 months. Al decreased the concentration of calcium (Ca) and iron (Fe) in the femur, whereas Cd and Cd + Al intake reduced the contents of Ca, Fe and zinc. Al and/or Cd caused an increase in both C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX1; bone resorption marker) and osteocalcin (OC; formation indicator) and enhanced the degree of porosity and flexural strength of the femur. Al partially prevented the loss of Fe from the bone caused by Cd, but intensified the inhibition of growth of body weight in comparison with separate exposure to Cd. In rats co-exposed to Cd + Al, the levels of CTX1 were greater compared with those treated with Al or Cd separately, and the density was less than that in rats exposed to Al separately. The training caused increases of magnesium and Ca contents, decreases in CTX1, as well as increases in OC and bone density, decreasing their porosity. The effect of training on the bone status, however, was limited (especially in rats co-exposed to Cd and Al) because of the increase in their mineralization, stimulated by exercises, was insufficient in relation to collagen production intensity. In conclusion, training had favourable effects on some bone parameters, but did not compensate for the negative effects of Al and/or Cd exposure on the poor mineralization and histopathological and morphological changes in the femur.

Antidiabetic and Antioxidative Potential of the Blue Congo Variety of Purple Potato Extract in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats.

This study was designed to evaluate the effects of purple potato extract of the Blue Congo variety (PP) on diabetes and its antioxidant activities after two-week administration tostreptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. The activities of PP were evaluated at a dose of 165 mg/kg body weight (b.w.) by estimating biochemical changes in blood plasma and through a histopathological study of kidney, muscles, and liver tissue. We evaluated the effect of treatment with extract on glucose level, glycated hemoglobin, activities of enzymatic antioxidants (including superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase), and lipid peroxidation. Moreover, we determined advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs), and the level of oxidative modified proteins (OMPs) as markers of carbonyl-oxidative stress in rats with diabetes. Using high-performance liquid chromatography, we identified five anthocyanins and six phenolic acids in the extract from Blue Congo with the dominant acylated anthocyanin as petunidin-3-p-coumaroyl-rutinoside-5-glucoside. The administration of Blue Congo extract lowered blood glucose, improved glucose tolerance, and decreased the amount of glycated hemoglobin. Furthermore, PP demonstrated an antioxidative effect, suppressed malondialdehyde levels, and restored antioxidant enzyme activities in diabetic rats. After administration of PP, we also noticed inhibition of OMP, AGE, and AOPP formation in the rats' blood plasma.

A Comprehensive Study on the Biological Activity of Elderberry Extract and Cyanidin 3-O-Glucoside and Their Interactions with Membranes and Human Serum Albumin.

In our research we used the extract from dietary supplement of elderberry (EE) and its dominant anthocyanin-cyanidin 3-O-glucoside (Cy 3-gluc). By interacting with a model membrane that reflects the main lipid composition of tumor membranes, the extract components, including Cy 3-gluc, caused an increase in packing order, mainly in the hydrophilic region of the membrane. It can thus be stated that EE caused a rigidifying effect, which is fundamental for understanding its anticancer and antioxidant activity. This study represents the first attempt to unravel the mechanism of interaction of elderberry extract with membranes. The results of the interaction with human serum albumin (HSA) proved that the studied substance quenches the fluorescence of HSA through a static mechanism in which the main interaction forces are Van der Waals and hydrogen bonding. The antioxidant activity of EE and Cy 3-gluc on liposomal membranes, antiradical properties and ability to inhibited the activity of the enzymes cyclooxygenase-1 and cyclooxygenase-2 were also demonstrated. Moreover, the anticancer activity of EE and Cy 3-gluc on human breast adenocarcinoma cell line were investigated. In addition, EE also exhibited the ability to form lipid aggregates in the form of liposomal capsules that can be applied as carriers of active biological substances, and the highest efficacy of EE encapsulation was obtained for multilayered liposome formulations.

Protective effects of levamisole, acetylsalicylic acid, and α-tocopherol against dioxin toxicity measured as the expression of AhR and COX-2 in a chicken embryo model.

Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (dioxins) are classed as persistent organic pollutants and have adverse effects on multiple functions within the body. Dioxins are known carcinogens, immunotoxins, and teratogens. Dioxins are transformed in vivo, and interactions between the products and the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) lead to the formation of proinflammatory and toxic metabolites. The aim of this study was to determine whether α-tocopherol (vitamin E), acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), and levamisole can decrease the amount of damage caused by dioxins. Fertile Hubbard Flex commercial line chicken eggs were injected with solutions containing 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) or containing TCDD and the test compounds. The chicken embryos and organs were analyzed after 7 and 13 days. The levels at which AhR and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) proteins (which are induced during inflammation) were expressed were evaluated by performing immunohistochemical analyses on embryos treated with TCDD alone or with TCDD and the test compounds. TCDD caused developmental disorders and increased AhR and COX-2 expression in the chicken embryo tissues. Vitamin E, levamisole, ASA, and ASA plus vitamin E inhibited AhR and COX-2 expression in embryos after 7 days and decreased AhR and COX-2 expression in embryos after 13 days. ASA, levamisole, and ASA plus vitamin E weakened the immune response and prevented multiple organ changes. Vitamin E was not fully protective against developmental changes in the embryos.

Three-Dimensional-Printed Modular Titanium Alloy Plates for Osteosynthesis of the Jawbone.

BACKGROUNDS: The titanium-aluminum-vanadium alloy (Ti-6Al-4V) is frequently used in implantology due to its biocompatibility. The use of 3D printing enables the mechanical modification of implant structures and the adaptation of their shape to the specific needs of individual patients. METHODS: The titanium alloy plates were designed using the 3D CAD method and printed using a 3D SLM printer. Qualitative tests were performed on the material surface using a microcomputed tomography scanner. The cytotoxicity of the modular titanium plates was investigated using the MTT assay on the L929 cell line and in direct contact with Balb/3T3 cells. Cell adhesion to the material surface was evaluated with hFOB1.19 human osteoblasts. Microbial biofilm formation was investigated on strains of Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans using the TTC test and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). RESULTS: The surface analysis showed the hydrophobic nature of the implant. The study showed that the titanium plates had no cytotoxic properties. In addition, the material surface showed favorable properties for osteoblast adhesion. Among the microorganisms tested, the strains of S. mutans and S. epidermidis showed the highest adhesion capacity to the plate surface, while the fungus C. albicans showed the lowest adhesion capacity. CONCLUSIONS: The manufactured modular plates have properties that are advantageous for the implantation and reduction in selected forms of microbial biofilm. Three-dimensional-printed modular titanium plates were investigated in this study and revealed the potential clinical application of this type of materials, regarding lack of cytotoxicity, high adhesion properties for osteoblasts and reduction in biofilm formation. The 3D CAD method allows us to personalise the shape of implants for individual patients.

Mechanical properties and osteointegration of the mesh structure of a lumbar fusion cage made by 3D printing.

The currently popular 3D printing makes it possible to produce spatial scaffolds, the main purpose of which is to obtain implants that have favourable mechanical properties to promote cell adhesion. This study aims to prove the influence of changes in selected geometrical parameters of scaffolds, used in intervertebral cages, on the mechanical properties obtained and thus on the osteointegration of the studied constructs with osteoblasts and fibroblasts. The stiffness values and maximum failure force of four modifications to geometric dimensions of the meshes were determined from the intendation test. Adhesion assays were conducted (including gentle pendulum motion) for Balb/3T3 fibroblasts and NHOst osteoblasts. The study revealed that an important geometrical parameter affecting the strength of the mesh is the height (h) of the connection point between arms of successive mesh cells. There was no significant effect of the mesh geometry on the abundance and survival of Balb/3T3 and NHOst cells. At the same time, fibroblasts were more likely to form colonies in the area where there is fusion of mesh cells, as opposed to osteoblasts that were more numerous at vertices of the mesh.

Anatomical, Histological and Histochemical Observations of the Eyelids and Orbital Glands in the Lowland Tapir (Tapirus terrestris Linnaeus, 1785) (Perissodactyla: Ceratomorpha).

The lowland tapir is one of four species belonging to the Tapiridae family of the Ceratomorpha suborder, similar to Rhinocerotidae. This study describes anatomy with morphometry, histology (hematoxylin and eosin, Masson-Goldner trichrome, Movat pentachrome, mucicarmine, picro-Mallory trichrome) and histochemistry (PAS, AB pH 1.0, AB pH 2.5; AB pH2.5/PAS and HDI) of the upper and lower eyelids, and superficial gland of the third eyelid with the third eyelid, deep gland of the third eyelid, and lacrimal gland. The aim of the work is to show the features of the above-mentioned structures typical only for Tapiridae, as well as to show the presence of similarities and differences between the families forming the order Perissodactyla. The eyelashes on the upper eyelid were long, while those of the lower eyelid were short and much less prominent. In the upper and lower eyelid sebaceous glands, a characteristic simple alveolar gland producing a mucus-like secretion and poorly developed tarsal glands were observed. The marginal zone of the posterior surface of the eyelids was covered by stratified columnar epithelium with 18-21 layers of nucleated cells, while the bulbar zone of these surfaces was covered by cubic multilayer epithelium with 6-11 non-keratinized layers of cells and with sparse goblet cells. In only lower eyelids, numerous lymphoid nodules, diffuse lymphocytes and high endothelial venules were observed. The superficial gland was an acinar complex which secreted mucous and contained plasma cells within the interlobular and interlobular connective tissue. The upper and lower branches of the third eyelid were the shape of a bent "caudal fin" and were composed of hyaline cartilage, and they contained conjunctiva associated lymphoid tissue (CALT). The deep gland was also an acinar complex producing a serous character and having numerous diffuse lymphocytes. The lacrimal gland was an acinar complex producing seromucous secretions and had numerous plasma cells located in the glandular interstitium. The results of our research indicate that the features of the anatomy of the eyelids and orbital region in the lowland tapir are also typical of the family Tapiridae, but also have features common to the families Equidae and Rhinocerotidae. We confirm the presence of poorly developed tarsal glands in both eyelids as well as presence of a palpebral part of the lacrimal gland in the upper eyelid, which is typical only to Tapirus terrestris.

Comparative Study of Lingual Papillae, Lingual Glands and Lyssa of the Tongue of Selected Wild Felids (Carnivora, Felidae) in Biological Aspects.

Although much attention has been paid in the literature to the morphology of the tongue in various animal species, including some Felidae, it has not yet been described in detail in the vulnerable Neofelis nebulosa and Panthera leo bleyenberghi and the last concern Lynx lynx and Otocolobus manul. Therefore, the present study aimed to characterize the features of the tongue surface, lingual glands and lyssa in the above-mentioned four selected wild species of the Pantherinae and Felinae subfamilies. Macroscopic, histological, histochemical and ultrastructural analyzes were used in the present work. Comparative analyzes of the dorsal tongue surface showed the presence of mechanical lingual papillae on five subtypes of filiform papillae on the apex and body and conical papillae on the root of the tongue. Gustatory papillae in the four analyzed species were fungiform papillae and various numbers of vallate papillae. Foliate papillae were absent in P. leo bleyenberghi and L. lynx, while delicate smooth folds, which were separated by parallel grooves but without taste buds, were present in N. nebulosa. The vallate and foliate papillae were accompanied by lingual glands, which produced a serous secretion, whereas the mixed lingual glands of the lingual root were with a predominance of mucus secretions comparable to four captive Felidae species. In the median plane on the ventral surface of the apex under its epithelium and within the muscle fibers, the lyssa was also observed to a varying degree, with the least developed, and thought about the size of the entire tongue, was in P. leo bleyenberghi. The lyssa structure in the four species was dominated by adipose tissue. The obtained results contribute knowledge concerning the functional anatomy of the tongue in four selected Felidae species, especially in terms of comparative anatomy.

Macroanatomical, Histological and Microtomographic Study of the Teeth of the Komodo Dragon (Varanus komodoensis)-Adaptation to Hunting.

The present study aimed to characterize the macrostructure and microstructure of the mandibular teeth of the Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis) and the methods it uses to obtain food. Examinations were performed using a stereoscopic microscope, autofluorescence method, histological method and computed microtomography. A detailed macro- and micro-structural description of V. komodoensis mandibular teeth were made. The mandibular teeth are laterally flattened along their entire length and the dental crown is hooked caudally. The part of the nasal margin of the tooth crown is irregular, while the caudal margin of the tooth is characteristically serrated, except for the tooth base area. There are longitudinal grooves on the lingual and vestibular surfaces up to the lower third of the tooth height. The mandibular tooth is surrounded by a cuff made of the oral mucosa, containing the opening of the venom gland. In the histological structure of the tooth, the enamel covering the tooth crown and the dentin under the enamel are distinguished. The inside of the tooth, except its basal part, is filled with the tooth chamber, while the inside of the lower part of the tooth is filled with plicidentine, which corresponds to external furrows on the enamel. The plicidentine arrangement resembles a honeycomb. A small amount of dentine folds reach up to the tooth apex. Characteristic features of the structure of the mandibular teeth in V. komodoensis may indicate their significant role, in addition to the venom glands, in obtaining food in the natural environment of this species.

Chitin scaffolds derived from the marine demosponge Aplysina fistularis stimulate the differentiation of dental pulp stem cells.

The use of stem cells for tissue regeneration is a prominent trend in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering. In particular, dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) have garnered considerable attention. When exposed to specific conditions, DPSCs have the ability to differentiate into osteoblasts and odontoblasts. Scaffolds are critical for cell differentiation because they replicate the 3D microenvironment of the niche and enhance cell adhesion, migration, and differentiation. The purpose of this study is to present the biological responses of human DPSCs to a purified 3D chitin scaffold derived from the marine demosponge Aplysina fistularis and modified with hydroxyapatite (HAp). Responses examined included proliferation, adhesion, and differentiation. The control culture consisted of the human osteoblast cell line, hFOB 1.19. Electron microscopy was used to examine the ultrastructure of the cells (transmission electron microscopy) and the surface of the scaffold (scanning electron microscopy). Cell adhesion to the scaffolds was determined by neutral red and crystal violet staining methods. An alkaline phosphatase (ALP) assay was used for assessing osteoblast/odontoblast differentiation. We evaluated the expression of osteogenic marker genes by performing ddPCR for ALP, RUNX2, and SPP1 mRNA expression levels. The results show that the chitin biomaterial provides a favorable environment for DPSC and hFOB 1.19 cell adhesion and supports both cell proliferation and differentiation. The chitin scaffold, especially with HAp modification, isolated from A. fistularis can make a significant contribution to tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

The Impact of a Phytobiotic Mixture on Broiler Chicken Health and Meat Safety.

The purpose of the study was to assess the effects of different doses of a phytobiotic mixture on selected production parameters and meat quality and to assess the residue of the preparation in tissues and the possible toxic effects in broiler chickens. Broiler chicks aged 160 days, divided into four equal groups, were supplemented with the phytobiotic mixture at different doses, D1-0.5 mL/L, D2-1 mL/L, and D3-2 mL/L, four times during a 42-day trial. There were no statistically significant differences in weight gain per week of life and mortality in the birds. The study also demonstrated that the use of the mixture of phytobiotics had no significant effect on colour, pH, WHC, and natural leakage. However, a beneficial effect of the additive was found in the group treated with a dose of 1 mL/L, where less thermal leakage from the meat was demonstrated. Furthermore, significant differences in the change in thigh muscle tenderness were also observed. In the histopathological analysis of the liver no significant differences were observed. In addition, no residues of the mixture or its metabolites were found in the tissues analysed. In conclusion, the proposed scheme of administration of the phytobiotic additive, regardless of the dose, does not cause pathological changes in organs and does not carry the risk of residues of the product in tissues intended for human consumption.

Drug Distribution and Penetration of Foam-Based Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (FBIC).

For decades, intraperitoneal chemotherapy (IPC) was used as a liquid solution for the treatment of peritoneal metastasis. Due to its advantageous physical properties, foam-based intraperitoneal chemotherapy (FBIC) was recently proposed as a treatment for peritoneal metastasis. For the first time, this study intends to examine the feasibility, expansion, drug distribution, and penetration of FBIC in vivo. Three swine received contrast-enhanced FBIC doxorubicin delivered using a bicarbonate carrier system. During the procedure, intraoperative blood analyses and periumbilical diameter, as well as foam distribution, penetration, and expansion of the FBIC were analyzed. The swine received an abdominal CT scan to evaluate the contrast distribution. Furthermore, a hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining of peritoneal samples was performed, and fluorescence microscopy was conducted. FBIC was performed without complications. The periumbilical diameter peaked after 5 min and then decreased. Blood analyses showed changes in blood parameters, with a reduction in the pH levels of serum calcium and potassium. CT scan detected contrast-enhanced FBIC throughout the abdominal cavity. Fluorescence microscopy confirmed that all areas were exposed to doxorubicin and no pathologies were detected in the HE histology. Our preliminary results are quite encouraging and indicate that FBIC is a feasible approach. However, in order to discuss possible clinical applications, further studies are required to investigate the pharmacologic, pharmacodynamic, and physical properties of FBIC.

Assessment of Selected Morphological, Physical and Chemical Parameters of the Teeth of the Offspring of Female Rats Exposed to 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), Taking into Account the Protective Role of Selected Antioxidants-Preliminary Study.

The studies conducted so far indicate a negative effect of dioxins on the structure of the alveolar bone and teeth, especially in the developmental period in rats. The research aimed to analyze the indirect effect of dioxins contained in the body of female rats on the structure of the dental organ in their offspring in the neonatal period and to determine the possibility of reducing potential dioxin disorders of the structure of hard tissues in the offspring of intoxicated mothers by simultaneous administration of vitamin E or acetylsalicylic acid (ASA). Another goal of the research was to determine the level of magnesium, calcium and phosphorus contained in bone tissue as indicators of the mineralization process of hard tissues in rats, in the case of using 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) and acetylsalicylic acid or α-tocopherol. The experiment was carried out on eight female rats of the Buffalo strain divided into four groups. From the offspring of eight females, the mandibles were removed from the mandibular joints, and then, after the removal of soft tissues, they were prepared for individual tests. Selected morphological, chemical and physical parameters of the teeth of the offspring of female rats from the experimental groups were analyzed. The analysis showed the effect of vitamin E and ASA on the content of Mg, Ca and P. In combination with TCDD, vitamin E and ASA, they positively inhibit the inflammatory process, preventing the leaching of Ca and Mg from the bones. ASA counteracted this phenomenon much more effectively than vitamin E. Detailed analysis of the tooth morphology showed that the molars' crowns exhibit shape disturbances under the influence of TCDD. Individual nodules in teeth T1, T2, T3 did not fuse, and the roots showed signs of hypertrophy. The study confirmed the negative effect of TCDD on tooth development. Teeth arising early in development are the most sensitive to the disorders, while the later ones are less exposed to the toxic effects of TCDD transmitted by the mother.