Immunophenotypic characteristics and karyotype analysis of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells of rabbits during in vitro cultivation

The aim of this study was to establish the immunophenotypic profile and karyotypic stability of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) of rabbits at the early passages in vitro following the application of different methods of dissociation of cellular material. MSCs were obtained from the femur bone marrow of three clinically healthy rabbits under general anaesthesia. Bone marrow aspirate was seeded in Petri dishes and cultured in a CO2 incubator with 5% CO2 at 37.0oC using a standard procedure. Immunohistochemical detection of nuclear proteins, cytoskeletal proteins and cell adhesion were performed by immunohistochemical analysis and karyotype analysis of MSCs following the enzyme and chelating methods of dissociation of the cell monolayer. The results of the immunophenotypic analysis of rabbit bone marrow MSCs showed that at the first, seventh, twelfth, and eighteenth passages these cells express markers of mesenchymal, muscle, epithelial and nerve cells. The choice of the enzyme or chelating method of dissociation of a culture of rabbit mesenchymal stem cells affects their cytogenetic variability. Dissociation of the MSCs monolayer with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid produces a cell culture with fewer quantitative and qualitative changes in the chromosome apparatus as compared to the enzyme method. Rabbit MSCs express markers of mesenchymal (vimentin, actin), muscle, epithelial and nerve (E-cadherin, N-cadherin) cells that are essential for differentiation of these cells. The chelating method of dissociation of a culture of rabbit mesenchymal stem cells, using ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid during cultivation, is more advantageous than the enzyme method of dissociation because it leads to less cytogenetic variability.

Comparative analysis of cat bone marrow and adipose tissue cell cultures

Cell culture transplantation is very promising in the treatment of various diseases. Cells obtained from a number of sources have been analysed to provide a basis for further studies in the area of regenerative medicine. The objective of the study was to compare morphological and phenotypic changes in cat adipose tissue and bone marrow cell cultures from the first to fifth passages. Adipose tissue and bone marrow were used to obtain cell cultures (coming from 3 cats) using standard methods with own modification. Phenotype changes were monitored by CD-marker identification and CD pan-keratin. The cytogenetic analysis was performed on 50 metaphase plates of cell cultures from the first to fifth passage. Cytogenetic assays showed that the adipose tissue cell culture (ATCC) at all passages was more stable than the bone marrow cell culture (BMCC).

Algorithm for establishing the time of death of a dog based on temperature measurements in selected sites of the body during the early post-mortem period

Post-mortem measurements were made of the body temperature of dogs. The aim of the study was to evaluate and verify a reliable mathematical model that can be used to establish the time elapsed since the death of a dog during the initial post-mortem period at room temperature, using the eye (vitreous body), internal organs (heart, liver, kidney and lung), and rectum as sites for temperature measurement. The measurements were performed at six points in the body using an electronic thermometer in conjunction with a temperature probe. The method of temperature measurement is simple and does not cause perceptible macroscopic changes or disfigure the carcass. Multiple regression analysis was shown to be suitable for estimating the time elapsed from death to the discovery of the body for a period up to 12h post-mortem. The proposed multiple regression equation using body weight and the temperature at a specific site reduces manipulation of the carcass to a minimum and thus reduces error in establishing the time of death. The multiple regression model makes it possible to precisely estimate the time elapsed since the death of the animal.

Effects of maternal treatment with β-hydroxy-β-metylbutyrate and 2-oxoglutaric acid on femur development in offspring of minks of the standard dark brown type

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of the diet, mother type and sex of the offspring on the mechanical and geometric parameters of long bones as well as bone tissue density in minks. Primiparous and multiparous dams were supplemented with β-hydroxy β-methylbutyrate (a metabolite of leucine, at the daily dosage of 0.02 g/kg of body weight) and/or 2-oxoglutaric acid (a precursor of glutamine, at the daily dosage of 0.4 g/kg of body weight) during gestation. The diet did not influence bone tissue density and the length of the humerus. An increase in the length of the femur was noted in male offspring delivered by multiparous dams. The diet resulted in an increase in the weight of the humerus in males from multiparous dams and a decrease in offspring from primiparous dams. Heavier femora were noted in male offspring delivered by both types of dams. The maximum elastic strength of the humerus was higher in the offspring delivered by multiparous than primiparous dams, irrespective of the offspring sex. The diet resulted in reduction in the ultimate strength of the femur in the male offspring delivered by primiparous dams. Only females born by multiparous dams, irrespective of the diet, showed a significant increase in the cross-sectional area of the humerus, while a significant decline was noted in males delivered by multiparous dams and in all the offspring delivered by primiparous dams. An increase in the cross-sectional area of the femur was noted in the offspring delivered by multiparous dams, while reduction was observed in the offspring delivered by primiparous dams. These results have shown for the first time that the presence of β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate or 2-oxoglutaric acid in the diet of pregnant primiparous or multiparous dams unambiguously affects the geometry and mechanical properties of offspring's long bones.

Multiple-locus variable-number tandem repeat fingerprinting as a method for rapid and cost-effective typing of animal-associated Staphylococcus aureus strains from lineages other than sequence type 398

In veterinary medicine, Staphylococcus aureus is associated with a range of mild to severe infections. The high density of livestock in intensive farming systems increases the risk of disease spread and hampers its control and measures of prevention, making S. aureus one of the most important animal pathogens. Multiple-locus variable-number tandem repeat fingerprinting (MLVF) has been successfully applied to the characterization of livestock-associated meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) ST398 but not to the characterization of a wide range of other animal isolates. The objective of the current study was to examine the effectiveness of MLVF for studying S. aureus strains isolated from households, farms and exotic animals in three regions of Poland. MLVF, random amplification of polymorphic DNA (RAPD), spa typing and diagnostic microarrays were compared to determine the most suitable combination of methods for veterinary purposes. MLVF generated results consistent with host and geographic origins, reflecting population structures with a high concordance to spa typing results. MLVF has been proven to be a rapid, highly discriminatory and cost-effective method suitable for molecular typing in veterinary settings.

Flow cytometric evaluation of sperm apoptosis in semen of silver foxes in the breeding period

The objective of the study was to evaluate cytometrically the percentage of apoptotic and necrotic spermatozoa in fresh semen of silver foxes in the breeding season. In males F3 and F4 with high percentages of early apoptotic (A+Pi-), late apoptotic (A+Pi+) and necrotic (A-Pi+) spermatozoa as well as 56-65% of living spermatozoa (A-Pi-) with progressive motility, the semen was characterised by reduced fertility. In males F1 and F2 with spermatozoa showing the motility and viability of 89-90% and high percentages of living cells that do not bind Annexin V and propidium iodide, the semen was assessed as valuable and useful for artificial insemination. Amongst 16 females of group I and II inseminated with semen from F1 and F2 males, 15 (93.75%) had multi-cub litters - on average 6.1 and 4.8, respectively. In contrast, amongst 16 females of group III and IV inseminated with semen from F3 and F4 males, only 10 (62.5%) had litters with few cubs (on average 2.6 in group III and 2.1 in group IV). Our findings explicitly indicate that semen of farm male foxes should be evaluated before the breeding season, as one of the causes of reproduction failures is likely to be a high percentage of apoptotic and necrotic spermatozoa. Thanks to flow cytometry, fresh ejaculates can be speedily evaluated and their usefulness for artificial insemination determined.

BOX-PCR is an adequate tool for typing of clinical Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates

In this study, the BOX-PCR fingerprinting technique was evaluated for the discrimination of clinical Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates. All isolates were typeable and nearly half showed unique banding patterns. According to our results, BOX-PCR fingerprinting is applicable for typing of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates and can be considered a useful complementary tool for epidemiological studies of members of this genus.

Phenotypic and genotypic diversity of Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains isolated from hospitals in siedlce (Poland)

A total of 62 Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains isolated from two hospitals in Siedlce (Poland) were studied by repetitive element based PCR (rep-PCR) using BOX primer. BOX-PCR results revealed the presence of 7 numerous genotypes and 31 unique patterns among isolates. Generally, the strains of P. aeruginosa were characterized by resistance to many antibiotics tested and by differences in serogroups and types of growth on cetrimide agar medium. However, the P. aeruginosa strains isolated from faeces showed much lower phenotypic and genotypic variations in comparison with strains obtained from other clinical specimens. It was observed that genetic techniques supported by phenotypic tests have enabled to conduct a detailed characterization of P. aeruginosa strains isolated from a particular environment at a particular time.

Biofilm production and presence of ica and bap genes in Staphylococcus aureus strains isolated from cows with mastitis in the eastern Poland

The aim of the study was phenotypic and genotypic analysis of 132 S. aureus strains isolated from mastitis in eastern Poland in respect to their biofilm formation ability. The analysis of the size polymorphism of fragment X in the gene encoding protein A (spa) revealed high genetic differentiation of the analyzed group of isolates. The ability of biofilm formation by the isolates was tested using two phenotypic methods. The Congo Red plate assay was found to be irreproducible and very subjective. More objective results were obtained using the spectrophotometric, microtiter plate assay. Most of the isolates, namely 76/132 (57.6 %) were classified as biofilm producers depending on the value of absorbance in the microtiter plate test. All of the isolates tested were found to possess both icaA and icaD genes, while the bap gene was absent in all strains.

Multiresistant Salmonella enterica serovar 4,[5],12:i:- in Europe: a new pandemic strain?

A marked increase in the prevalence of S. enterica serovar 4,[5],12:i:- with resistance to ampicillin, streptomycin, sulphonamides and tetracyclines (R-type ASSuT) has been noted in food-borne infections and in pigs/pig meat in several European countries in the last ten years. One hundred and sixteen strains of S. enterica serovar 4,[5],12:i:- from humans, pigs and pig meat isolated in England and Wales, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain and the Netherlands were further subtyped by phage typing, pulsed-field gel electrophoresis and multilocus variable number tandem repeat analysis to investigate the genetic relationship among strains. PCR was performed to identify the fljB flagellar gene and the genes encoding resistance to ampicillin, streptomycin, sulphonamides and tetracyclines. Class 1 and 2 integrase genes were also sought. Results indicate that genetically related serovar 4,[5],12:i:- strains of definitive phage types DT193 and DT120 with ampicillin, streptomycin, sulphonamide and tetracycline resistance encoded by blaTEM, strA-strB, sul2 and tet(B) have emerged in several European countries, with pigs the likely reservoir of infection. Control measures are urgently needed to reduce spread of infection to humans via the food chain and thereby prevent the possible pandemic spread of serovar 4,[5],12:i:- of R-type ASSuT as occurred with S. Typhimurium DT104 during the 1990s.

Multiresistant Salmonella enterica serovar 4,[5],12:i:- in Europe: a new pandemic strain?

A marked increase in the prevalence of S. enterica serovar 4,[5],12:i:- with resistance to ampicillin, streptomycin, sulphonamides and tetracyclines (R-type ASSuT) has been noted in food-borne infections and in pigs/pig meat in several European countries in the last ten years. One hundred and sixteen strains of S. enterica serovar 4,[5],12:i:- from humans, pigs and pig meat isolated in England and Wales, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain and the Netherlands were further subtyped by phage typing, pulsed-field gel electrophoresis and multilocus variable number tandem repeat analysis to investigate the genetic relationship among strains. PCR was performed to identify the fljB flagellar gene and the genes encoding resistance to ampicillin, streptomycin, sulphonamides and tetracyclines. Class 1 and 2 integrase genes were also sought. Results indicate that genetically related serovar 4,[5],12:i:- strains of definitive phage types DT193 and DT120 with ampicillin, streptomycin, sulphonamide and tetracycline resistance encoded by blaTEM, strA-strB, sul2 and tet(B) have emerged in several European countries, with pigs the likely reservoir of infection. Control measures are urgently needed to reduce spread of infection to humans via the food chain and thereby prevent the possible pandemic spread of serovar 4,[5],12:i:- of R-type ASSuT as occurred with S. Typhimurium DT104 during the 1990s.

Analysis of occurrence of virulence genes among Yersinia enterocolitica isolates belonging to different biotypes and serotypes

The 150 Y enterocolitica strains isolated from humans and from pigs belonged to biotypes 4 (68.7%), 1A (18.7%) and 2 (4%), or were biochemically untypeable (8.6%). Biotype 4 was comprised of Y. enterocolitica strains representing serotype O:3, within biotype 1A the strains either belonged to serotypes O:5 and O:6 or were untypeable, and biotype 2 was represented by the strains of serotype O:9. The strains which were biochemically untypeable belonged to serotypes O:5, O:6 and O:3. Among the strains tested there also were those of an unidentified biotype and serotype. Nearly all the strains of biotype 1A represented genotype ystB+myfA+, and few belonged to genotype ystB+. The presence of the ystB gene in the strains of biotype 1A and only occasional occurrence of the gene in the other biotypes makes ystB a distinguishing marker of biotype 1A. The strains of genotype ystA+ail+myfA+yadA+ predominated in biotype 4 (serotype O:3). The strains of biotype 2 (serotype O:9) represented genotype ystA+ail+myfA+, and the plasmid yadA gene was detected in some of them. Within the group of biochemically untypeable strains ystB- and myfA-specific PCR products were mainly obtained. The genotypes determined for the tested biotypes and serotypes of Y. enterocolitica, based upon the selected genes of virulence, can be applied as distinguishing markers and indicators of the potential virulence of Y. enterocolitica strains, excluding bioserotyping.

Contents of zinc, copper, chromium and manganese in silver foxes according to their age and mineral supplementation

Serum, livers and kidneys of 30 silver foxes from one breeding farm were subjected to analysis of the four microelements contents. The samples derived from 3 groups of animals (n = 10) selected according to age and developed reproduction disorders. Cu, Cr and Mn were determined by a graphite furnace AAS whereas Zn by the flame AAS methods. Serum levels of Zn were the least variable (x (n = 30) = 4.72 +/- 2.313 microg x mL(-1)) and the mean of Cu content was 0.26 +/- 0.244, of Cr was 0.029 +/- 0.032 and of Mn was 0.074 +/- 0.085 microg x mL(-1). The livers and kidneys contained respectively: 159.9 +/- 23.66 and 74.25 +/- 14.44 microg g(-1) of Zn; 34.03 +/- 12.43 and 13.66 +/- 1.67 microg g(-1) of Cu as well as 6.28 +/- 0.97 and 2.60 +/- 0.33 microg g(-1) of Mn. The most variable was Cr level achieving 1.00 +/- 1.06 and 1.43 +/- 2.64 microg g(-1) (all results per gram of wet weights). The differences between means and medians within the age groups did not exceed 41%, however chromium was an exception, its values differed more than 2 times. High zinc level found both in the serum and the organs resulted from its concentration in feedstuff being 1040,5 microg g(-1), exceeding the recommended level for farming foxes. Over-supplementation of dietary Zn might suggest connection between subtoxic action of Zn or its interaction with Cu or Cr followed by subsequent effect on reproduction events. Whether nature of Zn effects derived from direct target action or from Zn - Cu or Zn - Cr interactions have to be solved experimentally. Some foxes contained copper and chromium in livers and kidneys at levels exceeded significantly those concidered as physiological ranges for mammals, whereas manganese was within these limits. Thus, manganese was considered to keep homeostasis status of this element in the examined foxes.

Extended multiple-locus variable-number tandem-repeat analysis of Bacillus anthracis strains isolated in Poland

Twenty-one variable-number tandem-repeat (VNTR) marker loci were used for extended multiple locus VNTR analysis (MLVA) of 14 laboratory strains of Bacillus anthracis isolated in Poland and vaccine strain Sterne 34F2A. The extended MLVA (MLVA-21) distinguished six genotypes clustered in three main branches. Monomorphic branch 1 consisted of the vaccine strain and six isolates from distinct samples of a cow died from anthrax. This group also encompassed three haemolytic isolates of B. anthracis. Branches 2 and 3 were heterogeneous and consisted of five and three isolates of the phylogenetic lineages B2 and A1, respectively. MLVA-21 supported thesis on the anthrax agent heterogeneity in Poland. This study brought an additional evidence that haemolytic B. anthracis strains isolated in Poland are closely related to the vaccine strain Stere 34F2 and may together constitute the same sensu stricto strain. No epidemiological link could be however traced between both the vaccine and the haemolytic strains.

Towards an integrated approach to study SNPs and expression of candidate genes associated with milk protein biosynthesis

MilkProtChip is oligonucleotide microarray allowing bovine genotyping based on single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes influencing milk protein biosynthesis. A total of 71 SNPs in 42 genes were selected as associated with milk protein biosynthesis. Genotyping of about 300 animals of Polish Black-and-White cattle showed that SNPs in acyl-CoA: 1,2-diacylglycerol O-transferase (DGAT1), lactoferrin (LTF), casein kappa (CSN3) and growth hormone receptor (GHR) genes were associated with several milk performance traits. Analysis of correlations between SNPs and milk production traits showed that SNPs in single genes rarely affect the investigated traits. Only 4 of 42 investigated single SNPs had impact on milk production traits while 22 combinations of paired SNPs in these genes had impact. Positive effect SNP combinations in two genes can be a result of additive effect on these SNPs on the same traits or effect of genes interaction. The MilkBovExp chip representing 90 genes encoding transcription factors expressed in the bovine mammary gland and/or involved in mammary gland signaling pathways was designed for further investigation of impact of gene expression and/or its encoded products on milk traits performance.

[Antibiotic susceptibility and occurrence of ESBL, IBL and MBL in Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the drug susceptibility of P. aeruginosa strains and to detect strains producing inducible beta-lactamases (IBL), extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL), and metallo-beta-lactamases (MBL). During 6 month (October 2005 - March 2006), 66 strains of P. aeruginosa strains were cultured from clinical specimens obtained from patients of two of hospitals in Siedlce and from patients of outpatient clinics. All the strains were identified in the automatic ATB (bio Mérieux). The susceptibility of bacteria to antibiotics was tested by standard disc diffusion method. The majority of strains were susceptible to meropenem (89.4%), piperacillin combined with tazobactam (84.8%), ciprofloxacin (84.8%) and piperacillin (83.3%). Many of our strains were resistant to carbenicillin (69.7%), mezlocillin (45.5%), gentamicin (42.4%) and netylmicin (30.3%). 6 strains (9.1%) were multidrug-resistant (MDR). Inducible beta-lactamases were detected with the use double disc method according to Sanders and Sanders. ESBL-producing strains were detected with double disc test (DDST) according to Jarlier et al. These strains were identified as ESBL-positive on the basis of the DDST were also determined using a double disc (DD) test according to Appleton. Production of metallo-beta-lactamases (MBL) was examined with the use of Etest MBL (AB Biodisk, Sweden) and the double disc test according to Arakava et al. Sixty-five IBL-producing strains (98.5% of all strains) and three strains (4.5%) with MBL activity were detected. Strains producing extended beta-lactamases (ESBL) were not found.

Application of multiplex PCR for monitoring colonization of pig tonsils by Yersinia enterocolitica, including biotype 1A, and Yersinia pseudotuberculosis

A multiplex PCR assay was developed for the detection and differentiation of the Yersinia enterocolitica and Yersinia pseudotuberculosis isolates in both pure bacterial cultures and pig tonsils. The assay was based on the amplification of the ail, inv, yadA, and ystB genes. The PCR products, corresponding to the ail gene and the plasmid-borne yadA gene or only one product corresponding to the ail gene, were detected in Y. enterocolitica 4 biotype isolates. All of the Y. pseudotuberculosis isolates (n=6) tested gave a positive PCR reaction for the inv gene. For all tested Y. enterocolitica 1A biotype isolates (n=31), one product corresponding to the ystB gene was observed. The multiplex PCR assay was used to detect Y. enterocolitica and Y. pseudotuberculosis strains in pig tonsil samples obtained from 80 slaughtered pigs from three different herds. The presence of at least one of the specific PCR amplification products of ail-, ystB-, yadA-, and inv-specific sequences was observed in 11 samples (13.75%). These results of the multiplex PCR assay were compared with the results of conventional, microbiological testing. Y. enterocolitica isolates were cultured from only 3 (3.75%) of the 80 pig tonsils examined. The multiplex PCR assay was shown to be an efficient tool for differentiation between the pYV plasmid-bearing Y. enterocolitica isolates, the plasmidless Y. enterocolitica isolates, the Y. enterocolitica biotype 1A isolates, and the Y. pseudotuberculosis isolates with and without the pYV plasmid in naturally contaminated pig tonsils. This indicates that this assay is useful to control food processing and track the source of contamination.

Molecular typing of Staphylococcus aureus isolated from cows with mastitis in the east of Poland on the basis of polymorphism of genes coding protein A and coagulase

The aim of this study was to test the diversity of a population of 82 strains of S. aureus isolated from cows with mastitis in the east of Poland. The isolates were typed by analysis of the number of repeats of 24 bp sequences in the X region of protein A (spa) gene and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) of the coagulase (coa) gene. Twelve different spa types were distinguished. Amplification of region X gave, in 79 cases, one stripe. In a scope of 100-364 bp 10 different products (genotypes) of amplification reaction were defined. For one strain two stripes were obtained and two strains did not contain the spa gene. The most prevalent strains had 10, 11 and 12 repeats of 24 bp sequences, which represented respectively 18%, 30% and 13% of all strains tested. The presence of any strain containing 4 or 9 sequence was not observed. In the case of analysis of the polymorphism of the coagulase gene, 13 different genotypes were identified. The most frequently appearing genotype is genotype C, in which case an amplification product is digested into three DNA fragments: 410, 320 and 160 bp. To this genotype belong 43 strains, which constitute 52% of the examined population. A significant improvement in discriminatory power was observed when results from both genes were analyzed simultaneously. In an analyzed group of 82 strains, 24 genotypes were isolated.

Effect of neuraminidase on adherence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to human buccal epithelial cells. Inhibition of adhesion by monosaccharides

The aim of this study was to evaluate the actiion of Clostridium perfringens neuraminidase on the adherence of 28 strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa which were isolated from humans, different animals and environment to human buccal epithelial cells (BECs). Two reference strainns--NCTC 6749 and ATCC 27853 were also examined. Incubation of cells with the enzyme significantly increased bacterial adherence (a mean number of bacteria adhering to cells amounted 19.62 +/- 9.20, for controls - 7.54 +/- 5.86). The reference strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa showed the following adherence: NCTC 6749-43.04 (control 20.83) and ATCC 27853-22.21 (control 5.51). This study demonstrates that asialogangliosides function as receptors on buccal epithelial cells for P. aeruginosa strains. Monosaccharides inhibition studies showed an inhibition of adhesion of P. aeruginosa (two reference strains - NCTC 6749 and ATCC 27853, two hospital strains - 80/85 and 351) to normal BECs in the presence of N-acetylneuraminic acid and N-acetylgalactosamine. D-galactose is the best inhibitor of bacterial adhesion to neuraminized BECs. All monosaccharides used had a significant effect on P. aeruginosa adherence to trypsinized BECs. These data suggest a difference in the receptors on the three types of BECs.

The hemagglutinating activity of Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains isolated from humans and animals

The presence and type of adhesins occurring in Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains were determined by hemagglutination test with a 3% suspension of normal and trypsin-treated human group A erythrocytes, with or without the addition of sugar inhibitors (D-mannose, D-glucose, L-fucose, D-galactose, D-fructose, lactose, N-acetylneuraminic acid, N-acetylglucosamine and N-acetylgalactosamine). This study showed that a low percentage of Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains caused the agglutination of normal erythrocytes. Trypsin treatment of erythrocytes did not affect the hemagglutinating properties, indicating that hemagglutination was not dependent upon a trypsin-sensitive protein on the erythrocytes surface. Most of the studied strains agglutinated RBCs at 37 degrees C. A great variability in the inhibiting activity on studied strains was observed among the carbohydrates tested. These results demonstrated the predominant role of N-acetylglucosamine, N-acetylgalactosamine and N-acetylneuraminic acid for Pseudomonas aeruginosa adhesion to RBCs.

[Inhibition of adhesion to buccal epithelial cells of Pseudomonas aeruginosa by dextran]

Adhesion of Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains to buccal epithelial cells appears to be a necessary precondition for colonization and infection of respiratory tract. There are many strategies to prevent host organisms for Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The purpose of these studies was to evaluate the potential for preventing adhesion of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to epithelial cells with dextran. Dextran (5,000 MW) inhibited adhesion of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to buccal cells, at 20 mM was most inhibitory. The inhibitory effect appeared to be nonspecific because other neutral polysaccharides (glycogen and mannan) were also inhibitory. Dextran is an inexpansive and nontoxic agent and may be useful to prevent colonization and infection of respiratory tract with Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Reduction in the adherence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to human buccal epithelial cells with neuraminidase inhibition

The aim of this study was to evaluate the reduction in the adherence of 33 strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from humans and different animals to human buccal epithelial cells with neuraminidase inhibition. Buccal epithelial cells were incubated with strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in the presence or absence of the neuraminidase inhibitors, 2,3-dehydro-2-deoxy-N-acetyl-neuraminic acid (DANA) or N-acetyl-neuraminic acid (NANA). Incubation of cells with bacteria in the presence of either DANA or NANA reduced bacterial adherence significantly by 35.24 +/- 23.90%, and 68.00 +/- 22.51 %, respectively. We suggest that the in vivo effects of such interventions should be explored as potential mechanisms reducing Pseudomonas aeruginosa in the binding to buccal cells.

Typing of Yersinia Enterocolitica Isolates by ITS profiling, REP- and ERIC-PCR

Thirty-five Yersinia enterocolitica strains isolated from humans, pigs and foxes were analysed by genotyping including intergenic transcribed sequence (ITS) profiling, REP- and ERIC-PCR. ERIC-PCR revealed the presence of seven different genotypes. Amplification of the 16S-23S rDNA spacer region by ITS profiling gave similar results with nine different genotypes. REP-PCR was found to be more discriminatory for typing of Y. enterocolitica than ERIC-PCR and ITS profiling. Fifteen different DNA patterns were obtained by this technique. Based on data obtained by three methods it was found that: (i) Y. enterocolitica strains belonging to the same serotype can represent different genotypes and vice versa; (ii) isolates recovered from humans, pigs and foxes exhibit limited heterogeneity and, independent of the origin, one or two prevailing genotypes were always observed; and (iii) many human Y. enterocolitica isolates shared common genotypes with porcine isolates.

Intriguing diversity ofBacillus anthracisin eastern Poland – the molecular echoes of the past outbreaks

The multiple locus VNTRs analysis (MLVA) revealed the presence of five genotypes in a group of 10 Bacillus anthracis isolates from epidemiologically unrelated cases of bovine-anthrax in eastern Poland. Eight tested isolates possessed the pagA and capB genes indicating the presence of both virulence plasmids, while two isolates revealed only pagA and lacked pXO2. The MLVA and DNA sequence analysis indicated that seven tested isolates represent four novel genotypes. Five tested strains revealed a unique 144 bp vrrB2 variant as well as 220 bp variant of vrrB1, implying the relatedness to the lineage B2. Consequently, we propose establishing of novel B2 strains sub-lineage. Multiple anthrax outbreaks, which took place in Poland several decades ago were proposed as a cause of intriguing diversity of B. anthracis observed in this study.

[Detection of Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm on medical biomaterials]

The adhesion and biofilm formation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains on the surface of catheters made of various polymers (PU, SL, PCW) were determined in vitro. It was used the method by Richards et al. with modification of Rózalska et al. (1998), in which soluble colourless TTC is reduced to insoluble red formazan. The results of this study indicate that 80.3% of this strains adhered and 94.6% formed biofilm on the Nelaton catheter, 86% strains adhered and 76.1% formed biofilm on the polyurethane catheter, and 73.2% strains adhered, and 78.9% formed biofilm on the Foley catheter.

Adherence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to human buccal epithelial cells

The aim of this study was to evaluate adherence of 83 strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from humans and different animals to trypsin-treated buccal cells. We have demonstrated that Pseudomonas aeruginosa attached to trypsin-treated buccal cells in far greater numbers than to cells from controls (normal buccal epithelial cells). The mean number of bacteria adhering to trypsin-treated cells amounted 107.05 +/- 102.16 and to normal cells - 6.97 +/- 3.53. We conclude that exposure of cells to proteolytic enzymes increases Pseudomonas aeruginosa binding to buccal cells.

[The effect of culture conditions on hydrophobic properties of Pseudomonas aeruginosa]

The cell surface hydrophobicity (CSH) plays an important role in a adhesion of bacteria on solid surfaces. CSH of 62 Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains isolated from humans and different animals was assessed using the ammonium sulfate salt aggregation test. Bacteria were grown for 24 h and 48 h at a room temperature (22 degrees C) and 37 degrees C on enrichment broth and agar (Biomed) and tryptic soy agar (Difco). The hydrophobic properties of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains were depended on the temperature, time of the culture of bacteria and the kind of media. CSH properties were most frequently expressed when the analyzed strains were cultured in enrichment broth. In a such conditions Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains were more hydrophobic when grown at 22 degrees C (94% after 24 h and 87% after 48%) than those at 37 degrees C (72% after 24 h and 71% after 48 h). Among strains cultured in tryptic soy agar at 37 degrees C, 48% after 24 h and 75% after 48 h were autoaggregating, representing very strong hydrophobic properties.

Adherence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains to solid surfaces

The aim of this study was to evaluate adherence of 59 strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to nitric-acid cleansed glass surfaces. There were differences in adherence between the investigated strains. The highest adherence was noticed among human strains (the average percentage was 13.3 +/- 7.51%) and the lowest adherence was determined among swine strains (the average percentage amounted 6 +/- .37%). We conclude that strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from humans colonise glass surfaces better than strains isolated from animals.

The activity of chosen bacteriophages on Yersinia enterocolitica strains

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the lytic activity of three bacteriophages on Yersinia enterocolitica strains isolated from humans and pigs. The Y. enterocolitica strains tested belonged to 0:3, 0:9 and 0:2 serogroups. The ZD5 phage was obtained from a water sample, but remaining phages were obtained from the lysogenic Y. frederiksenii 7291 and Y. enterocolitica 8684 strains. All the Y. enterocolitica strains tested which belonged to 0:9 serogroup did not show any susceptibility to the bacteriophages used. The bacteriophages tested showed different lytic activity on the Y. enterocolitica 0:3 strains investigated. The phage susceptibility of Y. enterocolitica 0:3 strains revealed 9 different phage patterns. ZD5 phage showed the highest lytic activity, because it produced confluent lysis of the most Y. enterocolitica 0:3 strains tested. The Y. enterocolitica 0:2 strains isolated from pigs showed the similar phage susceptibility. The Y. kristensenii and Y. pseudotuberculosis strains tested were not sensitive to the bacteriophages used.

[Occurrence of beta-lactamase type ESBL and IBL in Pseudomonas aeruginosa rods]

The aim of the study was to determine extended spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL) and inducible beta-lactamases (IBL) among Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains. A total of 43 strains isolated from humans (6), hospital sink (1), fish (15), cattle (5), swine (5), dog (1), redder (1) fur animals (9) were studied. ESBL-producing strains were detected with double disc diffusion test according to Jarlier et al. (8). Clavulonate and tazobactam were used as the inhibitors of ESBL. Inducible beta-lactamases were determined using double disc method according to Sanders (15). Cefoxitin was the inductor of these beta-lactamases. The susceptibility study was carried out using the disc diffusion method according to NCCLS standards. A total of 8 ESBL (18.6% of all strains) and 31 (72%) IBL producing strains were detected. The obtained results indicate the necessity of monitoring of ESBL- and IBL-producing strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

[Evaluation of hydrophobic properties of Yersinia enterocolitica strains isolated from humans and pigs]

The aim of the study was to evaluate the hydrophobic properties of Yersinia enterocolitica and to determine the influence of the culture conditions, such as: type of medium, temperature, and duration of the culture on the manifestation of these properties. The subject of the study were 117 of Y. enterocolitica strains isolated from humans and pigs. The ammonium sulphate salt aggregation test according to Lindahl modified method was used to evaluate the hydrophobic properties of Y. enterocolitica strains. Strains of Y. enterocolitica were cultured for 24 h at 25 degrees C on TSA (Difco) medium. During investigation of the influence of the culture conditions the chosen strains were incubated for 24 h and 48 h at 25 degrees C and 37 degrees C on TSA (Difco), LB (Difco), enrichment agar (Biomed), and enrichment agar with 5% sheep blood (Graso). A total of 44.5%, 17.9%, 9.4%, and 28.2% strains of Y. enterocolitica showed very strong hydrophobic properties, strong hydrophobic properties, some hydrophobic properties, and were non-hydrophobic, respectively when strains of Y. enterocolitica were cultured for 24 h at 25 degrees C on TSA medium. A total of 75.5% strains isolated from humans showed very strong hydrophobic properties and 13.5% strains were non-hydrophobic. Among strains isolated from pigs 30% showed very strong hydrophobic properties but 35% were non-hydrophobic. The hydrophobic properties of Y. enterocolitica depended on the temperature, duration of the culture and the type of media. The highest number of strains with very strong hydrophobic properties (89.6%) was obtained after 48 h of the incubation at 37 degrees C on the enrichment agar with 5% sheep blood. The highest number of non-hydrophobic strains of Y. enterocolitica (28.5%) was obtained after 24 h at 25 degrees C on TSA medium.

[Analysis of bacteriocinogenic properties of Yersinia enterocolitica strains]

The aim of the study was the investigation of bacteriocinogenic properties of 102 Yersinia enterocolitica strains. The influence of selected factors on the production of bacteriocins by Y. enterocolitica and properties of jersiniacin 44JPSBKOH were also investigated. Bacteriocinogenic properties of Y. enterocolitica strains were tested by using the delayed cross-streaking method. It was found that the production of bacteriocins by Y. enterocolitica depended on the type of media on which the producer and indicator strains were grown. It turned out that some strains of Y. enterocolitica showed bacteriocinogenic properties at 25 degrees C, 30 degrees C and 37 degrees C irrespective of the presence of manganese ions in medium. In the presence of iron ions these strains showed bacteriocinogenic properties only at 25 degrees C. Y. enterocolitica strains which required Mn2+ or Mn7+ ions for bacteriocins production showed this activity only at 25 degrees C but in presence of Fe3+ ions they had no bacteriocinogenic properties. The partially purified jersiniacin 44JPSBKOH is a protein, its molecular weight was estimated to be 40 kDa. Yersiniacin 44JPSBKOH was active in the pH range of 3 to 9. Its bactericidal activity was rapidly lost when heated to 100 degrees C and treated with proteolytic enzymes. Yersiniacin 44JPSBKOH showed bactericidal activity against other Y. enterocolitica strains and some strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from humans.

[Bactericidal activity of human, swine and cattle serum against pseudomonas aeruginosa strains]

The aim of this study was to assess of bactericidal activity of human, swine and cattle serum against 136 of Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains isolated from people, fishes, domestic and fur animals. The mechanism of the bactericidal activity of serum against gram-negative bacteria is complex and involves the participation of complement, antibodies and lysozyme (1, 5, 7, 8, 10, 11, 13, 14, 24, 25, 27, 30). The susceptibility of gram-negative rods to serum is differentiated. Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains are the most resistant (17, 25, 30). This opportunistic pathogen produce proteases that destroy complement components and immunoglobulins (3, 18, 19). The bactericidal activity of serum was determined after 3 hours incubation of bacteria in 50% serum by the method of Jankowski (1981) (5). The results of this study indicate that 71% of this strains were resistant to swine serum action, 68% of this strains were resistant to bovine serum and 57% of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains were sensitive to human serum. The P. aeruginosa strains isolated from fishes were the most sensitive to serum action and the strains isolated from people and cattle were most resistant to the bactericidal activity of serum.

[The effect of various methods of luteal phase supplementation on serum progesterone level]

OBJECTIVES

Examined was the effect of luteal phase supplementation on serum progesterone level with the use of two methods: oral administration of 10 mg dydrogesterone twice daily since the detection of corpus luteum till the menstruation and intramuscular HCG administration in the dose 1500 IU every 4 days and 10 mg dydrogesterone twice daily in the same period.

DESIGN

A randomized study, controlled by placebo.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

56 infertile women, with luteal phase deficiency assessed on the basis of basal body temperature (decrease shortly after the peak the luteal phase shorter than 11 days) and ovulation determined sonographically. Progesterone was evaluated by an EIA method, on the 3rd, 7th and 11th day since the corpus luteum occurred.

RESULTS

The peak of progesterone concentration was assessed in the midluteal phase (7th day) in both supplemented groups, significantly higher than in the placebo group, also in group with dydrogesterone and HCG it was higher than in group with dydrogesterone alone. Progesterone concentration decrease on the 11th day after the ovulation to the values comparable with the placebo group.

CONCLUSION

It has been found that both methods increase serum progesterone level in the time of an assumed implantation but they do not affect the premenstrual period if conception is not achieved.

[Correlation of pituitary hormones in serum of male patients with fertility problems]

FSH, LH and prolactin serum levels estimations are the part of the most diagnostic procedures in andrology but there is their prediction value under discussion all the time.

AIM

To judge the sensitivity of pituitary hormones serum levels estimation as the diagnostic method in male subfertility and to investigate the correlation between FSH, LH and PRL depending on their physiological or pathological ranges.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

FSH, LH and PRL serum levels were estimated in 36 males with azoospermia or severe oligozoospermia (density below 5 mln sperm per milliliter) by EIA. The percentage of pathologic values for every hormones was counted. The statistic analyzes (for p. < 0.05) of correlation factor between every couple of hormones were performed in full investigated group and in subgroups which were formed in following way: A-12 men with pathologic FSH serum levels, B-9 men with pathologic LH serum levels and C-24 men with both physiologic gonadotropins serum levels.

RESULTS

The percentage of FSH, LH and PRL pathologic values was in all subfertile men: 33%, 25% and 19.4% respectively. The correlation factor for FSH and LH was high in whole group (0.9484), it was the highest in both groups with FSH and LH pathologic levels (almost 1.0). In the group with physiological FSH and LH serum levels this positive correlation was significantly weak but also present (0.4107). The prolactin is completely independent without the correlation with any gonadotropins in any groups.

CONCLUSIONS

1. The sensitivity of the investigations of pituitary hormones during the diagnostic procedures of male fertility disturbances is poor. 2. Gonadotropins and prolactin infertile male serum levels are completely independent. 3. Positive correlation between FSH and LH increases in the pathological range of their values.