To quantify subcutaneous adipose tissue topography (SAT-Top) describing individual SAT distribution for a subject or even a group we measured subcutaneous adipose tissue thickness at 15 specified body sites of 303 healthy women aged 20-69 yrs and 20 women with proven non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) by the optical device 'LIPOMETER'. The type of upper-body- and lower-body-fat pattern, (apples or pears), was determined by factor analysis of the data. Upper body sites were highly loaded in factor 1, whereas factor 2 included highly loaded body sites from the lower extremities. For an individual, factor 1 scores > factor 2 scores, was described as an 'apple'-type, while factor 2 > factor 1 was described as a 'pear'-type. We found about 80% 'pears' and 20% 'apples' in 20-29 year olds and 20% 'pears' and 80% 'apples' in 60-69 year old women. Women with NIDDM tended to be 'super-apples'. SAT-Top provides a useful differentiation between apples and pears and we recommend this approach as a screening method.

Adipose Tissue↗

PubMedDate not supplied

Arrangement and fine structure of lymphatic vessels in the human spermatic cord.

The arrangement and architecture of lymphatic vessels in the human spermatic cord was investigated using ink injection methods, and light and electron microscopy. Near the testis lymphatic capillaries are found in close association with the ductus deferens and are grouped like alveoles where collecting vessels emerge. Collecting vessels are arranged at the periphery of the plexus pampiniformis decreasing in number towards the inguinal canal. Single smooth muscle cells are found in the wall of the initial segments of the collecting ducts. In the proximal part of the spermatic cord most of the lymphatics have several layers of muscle cells in their wall. But at places where collecting vessels are equipped with valves the muscular coat is almost completely interrupted. Thereby functional units are established, consisting of one valve and the following intervalvular segment which measures 2-3 mm in length.

Adolescent↗