Alteration in diaphragmatic function induced by acute necrotizing pancreatitis in a rodent model.

Some of the common complications of acute necrotizing pancreatitis also involve pulmonary complications. These manifestations are often associated with a cephalad diaphragmatic shift. We hypothized that diaphragmatic function might be directly compromised by the acute abdominal process.

Diaphragmatic function is markedly altered in cerulein-induced pancreatitis.

Objective: To assess diaphragmatic function in vitro during experimental cerulein-induced acute pancreatitis.

Design: Prospective, randomized, controlled animal trial.

Setting: Research laboratory at a large university medical center.

Calcium ATPase and respiratory muscle function.

The sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) of striated muscle is a highly specialized intracellular membrane system that plays a key role in the contraction-relaxation cycle of muscle. Its primary function is the regulation of cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentration. A key element in this regulation is the Sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+-adenosine triphosphatase (SERCA), which by sequestering Ca2+ into the SR, induces and maintains relaxation.

Effects of corticosteroids on epithelial structure and smooth muscle function of rat trachea.

Corticosteroids, efficient drugs for the treatment of severe asthma, may have numerous side effects. We investigated the effects of 7 days of treatment with triamcinolone (1.2 mg x kg(-1) x day(-1)) on the epithelial structure, tracheal smooth muscle cross-sectional area and contractility in the rat.

Effects of mechanical ventilation on diaphragmatic contractile properties in rats.

We measured in rats the effects of 48 h of mechanical ventilation on the weight, contractile properties, and enzymatic profile of the diaphragm, the soleus and the extensor digitorium longus (EDL) muscles. Eighteen animals were randomly divided into a mechanically ventilated (MV, n = 9) group or a control (C, n = 9) group. During the 48 h of mechanical ventilation, animals in the MV group were anesthetized with sodium thiopental and enterally fed with a gastric catheter.