Content of blood cell components, inflammatory cytokines and growth factors in autologous platelet-rich plasma obtained by various methods

BACKGROUND

The evaluation of the efficacy of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in clinical practice yields conflicting results and raises numerous controversies. This may be due to different concentrations of biologically active components in PRP obtained with the use of different methods of gravity separation.

AIM

To compare the content, repeatability and correlations between biologically active components in PRP obtained with four different commercial systems.

METHODS

From a whole blood sample of each of 12 healthy male volunteers, 4 PRP samples were prepared using 4 different commercial kits [Arthrex Autologous Conditioned Plasma (ACP), Mini GPS III, Xerthra, Dr. PRP] in accordance with the instructions provided by the manufacturers. A comparative analysis of blood cell components - 13 selected inflammatory cytokines and 7 growth factors - in the obtained PRP samples was performed using the Kruskal-Wallis test by ranks. The repeatability of results in each method was evaluated by the estimation of the coefficient of variation. The Spearman correlation was used to estimate the relationship between blood cell content and cytokines.

RESULTS

Significantly higher concentrations of platelets (PLT), white blood cells (WBC) and red blood cells (RBC) were found in PRP obtained with the use of Mini GPS III than in PRP obtained using other systems. Significant differences in the content of growth factors and cytokines in PRP were found. A positive correlation of the amount of PLT, RBC and WBC with the concentration of most of the growth factors was found but in only three inflammatory cytokines. The obtained correlations between blood cell components and cytokines differed between the systems in terms of statistical significance, which may be due to insufficient sample size. The repeatability of the obtained PLT concentration also varied between protocols with the lowest in Xerthra and the highest in Arthrex ACP.

CONCLUSION

Significant differences in the content of biologically active components and their repeatability were found in PRP obtained by various methods, providing new data for further research.

The influence of menstrual cycle on the efficiency of stretching

BACKGROUND

Muscle stretching has been practiced by people for thousands of years. Its effectiveness is well-proven, but the diversity of the obtained results should prompt a search for causative factors. One of the possible explanations can be hormonal fluctuations, which occur during the menstrual cycle.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the influence of menstrual cycle on the efficiency of static stretching of hamstrings with special reference to changes in their length.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 534 young women were recruited for the study, but after applying the inclusion criteria, only 48 of them have been accepted. The inclusion criteria for the study comprised a reduced length of the hamstring muscles and a regular menstrual cycle. The whole study included a twofold examination of hamstring length before and after the stretching (3 × 45 s), performed by a physiotherapist. All the measurements were carried out 3 times in individual phases of the menstrual cycle.

RESULTS

Statistically significant influence of static stretching upon the length of hamstring muscle was revealed. A change in the passive knee extension (PKE) test was 13.34% (standard deviation (SD) = 10.97), and in active knee extension (AKE) test it was 8.46% (SD = 9.26). Hamstrings length demonstrated no differences in various phases of the menstrual cycle.

CONCLUSIONS

Static stretching is an effective tool for the improvement of the length of the hamstring muscle in young women. However, the effectiveness of stretching in healthy women is not influenced by the menstrual cycle phases.

Analysis and comparison of autologous platelet-rich plasma preparation systems used in the treatment of enthesopathies: A preliminary study

BACKGROUND

Autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection is an alternative but widely accepted method for the treatment of degenerative changes in tendon attachments known as enthesopathies. The PRP is considered a safe source for high concentrations of the growth factors involved in the healing process. Despite initial promising outcomes, many recent studies report conflicting results for this treatment. This may be due to differences in the concentrations of platelets and growth factors in PRPs obtained using different methods.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to compare PRP preparation systems in terms of morphotic components and selected growth factors to find the most appropriate procedure for the treatment of enthesopathies.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Whole blood samples from 6 healthy male volunteers were collected. Using different commercial kits (Mini GPS III System, Arthrex ACP, and Xerthra, Dr. PRP), 4 PRPs were prepared from the blood of each participant. All samples were analyzed for the content of morphotic components and the following growth factors: transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), epidermal growth factor (EGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and platelet-derived growth factor AA (PDGF-AA).

RESULTS

The Mini GPS III produced PRP with the highest concentration of platelets and white blood cells (WBC) compared to the other systems included in the study. Significant differences in the levels of EGF and PDGF-AA were found only between the Mini GPS III and Arthrex ACP. There was positive correlation between the content of platelets and the levels of PDGF-AA and EGF. The red blood cells (RBC) concentration positively correlated with PDGF-AA, EGF and VEGF.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed differences between the morphotic components and levels of selected growth factors in PRP obtained with the different preparation methods. Due to insufficient data, we cannot argue for or against any of the studied protocols for the treatment of enthesopathy. Further studies on a larger population are required to validate our results.

Clinical assessment and comparison of ACL reconstruction using synthetic graft (Neoligaments versus FiberTape)

BACKGROUND

Due to the low potential for primary biological healing of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), the most popular approach is currently reconstruction using a graft. Recent research indicates that the technique of strengthening a damaged ligament with synthetic tapes (internal bracing) may be an alternative to reconstructive treatment, especially in cases of partial ACL damage.

OBJECTIVES

To compare and evaluate the possibility of using a synthetic graft (Neoligaments or FiberTape) to treat partial lesions of the ACL.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study. Selected from a pool of 128 patients undergoing primary unilateral intra-articular ACL reconstruction due to partial lesion of the ACL, group I (Neoligaments) and group II (FiberTape) each included 30 patients. Range of motion (ROM), the Lachman test, the anterior drawer test and the pivot-shift test, the Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale, and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) 2000 scale were used for assessment. Follow-up was carried out after 2 years.

RESULTS

The knee joint regained anterior stability in both the subjective and objective assessments in all patients in both groups. The subjective results were respectively: in group I, 97.2 ±3.2 points on the Lysholm scale and 93.9 ±6.1 points on the IKDC 2000 scale; in group II, 96.1 ±4.9 points on the Lysholm scale and 93.2 ±6.8 points on the IKDC 2000 scale. Group comparison of the results of the IKDC 2000 scale, Lysholm Scale and ROM obtained postoperatively showed no statistically significant differences between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Reconstruction of partial ACL lesions using a synthetic graft allows regained stability of the knee joint. The results of subjective assessment are comparable with the functional assessment results. The comparison between Neoligaments and FiberTape shows the same functional and objective results, although FiberTape is preferable from an economical perspective.

Treatment results and safety assessment of the LARS system for the reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament

BACKGROUND

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is the prevailing procedure in cases of ACL rupture.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the long-term safety of implementing a synthetic ligament with the Ligament Advanced Reinforcement System (LARS) in primary reconstruction of the ACL.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The retrospective analysis involved 403 patients who had undergone ACL reconstruction with the same results in clinical and functional assessments. The patients comprised 2 groups. In group I, a LARS graft was implemented, while in group II, an autograft was used. The Lachman test, anterior drawer test, pivot-shift test, Lysholm scale, IKDC 2000, pain posited to be experienced, the possibility of postoperative complications, the time required to return to work, and revision surgery were all considered and analyzed.

RESULTS

The visual analogue scale (VAS) pain score in group I ranged from 37.34 ±8.22 mm on day 3 to 17.21 ±5.45 mm on day 28. In group II, it ranged from 64.72 ±10.20 mm on day 3 (p < 0.05) to 18.67 ±6.57 mm on day 28. The period of time taken to return to office work in group I was 7.04 ±1.82 weeks, and 9.21 ±1.75 weeks in group II (p < 0.05). The time taken to return to physical work in group I was 20.50 ±2.91 weeks, and 21.12 ±3.12 weeks in group II. Postoperative scar and local complications were statistically less prominent in group I. The cost and number of revision surgeries were greater in the first group.

CONCLUSIONS

Reconstruction of the ACL using a synthetic graft such as LARS yields similar results to an autograft in a cohort follow-up. Long-term results show a large number of revision surgeries when LARS is used. This method should be used with caution.

A comparative clinical and functional assessment of cortical button versus suture anchor in distal biceps brachii tendon repair

PURPOSE

The studies comparing the fixation methods being used for the ruptured distal biceps brachii tendon reinsertion show similar outcomes of cortical button and suture anchors usage, however, longer follow-up studies remain necessary. The goal of this study was to compare the clinical and functional three-year outcomes of the cortical button in contrast to the suture anchor fixation.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study comprised of 28 males on average 3 years after surgical reinsertion of the distal biceps brachii tendon with the use of a cortical button (Group I, n = 11) or a suture anchor (Group II, n = 17). The outcomes assessed were range of elbow joint and forearm motion (ROM), arm circumferences, visual analogue scale (VAS), Mayo Elbow Performance Index (MEPI), Quick Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (Quick DASH) and forearm flexor and supinator muscle torques measured under isometric and isokinetic conditions.

RESULTS

The comparison between the two studied groups revealed no statistically significant differences in ROM (p = 0.24-1.00), circumferences (p = 0.15-0.50), VAS (p = 0.71), MEPI (p = 0.23), Quick DASH (p = 0.61) or in the obtained muscle torque values (p = 0.07-1.00). However, differences in supination ROM between the surgical and non-surgical side were found in both groups (p = 0.01-0.02), and differences in pronation (p = 0.02) were found in Group II. The muscle torque values obtained in the surgical, dominant limb were lower than those in the nonsurgical, nondominant limb.

CONCLUSION

The comprehensive comparison of three-year outcomes of cortical button versus suture anchor fixations did not favour one fixation method over the other, and the results justify the clinical usage of both methods.

Surgical Management of Distal Biceps Tendon Anatomical Reinsertion Complications: Iatrogenic Posterior Interosseous Nerve Palsy

Background

Although iatrogenic posterior interosseous nerve (PIN) palsy is an uncommon complication of ruptured distal biceps brachii tendon surgical anatomical reinsertion, it is the most severe complication leading to functional limitation. The present study investigated possible types of PIN palsy as a postoperative complication of anatomical distal biceps tendon reinsertion, and aimed to clinically assess patients at 2 years after its surgical treatment.

Material/Methods

The studied sample comprised 7 male patients diagnosed with an iatrogenic PIN palsies after anatomical reinsertion of the distal biceps tendon, who were referred to the reference center for management of a peripheral nervous system injury. The nerve injury was intraoperatively evaluated. The clinical assessment used the Medical Research Council (MRC) System for motor recovery, and the Quick Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (Quick DASH) was performed before the surgical treatment of the PIN injuries and at 2 years postoperatively. In all studied cases, electromyography was performed preoperatively and postoperatively.

Results

The comparison of the preoperative (x=1.43±0.53) and postoperative (x=4.71±0.49) results of the motor recovery of the PIN demonstrated a statistically significant improvement (p<0.001). Moreover, the results of functional assessments with the use of the Quick DASH questionnaire significantly improved (p<0.001) postoperatively (x=6.14±6.86) compared to the preoperative evaluations (x=54.29±12.05).

Conclusions

The PIN palsies as complications of the surgical anatomical reinsertion of ruptured distal biceps brachii resulted from mechanical nerve compression or direct intraoperative damage. The 2-year outcomes justified the clinical use of surgical management for iatrogenic PIN palsy.

Retrospective Evaluation of Surgical Anatomical Repair of Distal Biceps Brachii Tendon Rupture Using Suture Anchor Fixation

BACKGROUND To date, no consensus has been reached regarding the preferred fixation method to use in the repair of distal biceps brachii tendon rupture. The aim of this study was to clinically and functionally (Mayo Elbow Performance Index, MEPI) assess the upper limb after surgical anatomic reinsertion of the distal biceps brachii tendon with the use of suture anchor fixation method with regard to postoperative time and limb dominance, and to assess postoperative complications. MATERIAL AND METHODS The sample comprised 18 males (age 52.09±8.89 years) after surgical anatomical distal biceps brachii reinsertion using suture anchor fixation. A comprehensive clinical and functional evaluation and pain assessment were performed. RESULTS In terms of postoperative complications, an isolated case of surgical site sensory disturbances was noted. Circumferences (p-value 0.21-1.00) and ROM (p-value 0.07-1.00) were similar in the operated and nonoperated limbs. The isometric torque (IT) values of muscles flexing and supinating the forearm were comparable in both limbs (p-value 0.14-0.95), but in patients with the operated dominant limb, the mean IT value was not higher than the value obtained in the nonoperated nondominant one. The MEPI indicated good and excellent results (80.00±15.00-90.00±8.66 points), but a detailed individual analysis showed that reported scores were not in line with objectively measured features. CONCLUSIONS The results of the comprehensive retrospective evaluation justify the clinical use of suture anchors fixation method in the surgical anatomical reinsertion of a ruptured distal biceps brachii tendon. The assessment of a patient should always report both subjective and objective measures.

Polymers as Carriers of Gentamicin in Traumatology and Orthopedic Surgery - Current State Of Knowledge

Osteomyelitis in patients undergoing surgery because of injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system is a serious clinical, economic and social problem. It is one of the greatest therapeutic challenges in traumatology and orthopedic surgery. To achieve the best results in the treatment of osteomyelitis, surgical debridement and intravenous antibiotic therapy is supported by local antibiotic delivery. Many different substances can be used as drug carriers. In this study we present and compare some polymers used as carriers of gentamicin. Some of them, such as poly(methyl methacrylate), are well known and have been used for 30 years, and others, such as polycaprolactone, polyacrylic acid, polyanhydrides, poly-trimethylene carbonate, polylactide, polyglycolide and poly(trimethylene carbonate), are perspectives for the future. In this study, we have tried to briefly present all of these polymers and compare some of their features. We have concentrated on the pharmacokinetics and bioactivity of such implants, which are important aspects for their potential practical use.

A Retrospective Evaluation of Anatomical Reinsertion of the Distal Biceps Brachii Tendon Using an ACL TightRope® RT with a Titanium Cortical Button and Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene Suture: A Preliminary Report

BACKGROUND

Various surgical techniques for treating distal biceps brachii tendon injury have been described, and to date there is no consensus regarding the preferred fixation method for the anatomic reinsertion of the ruptured tendon.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to clinically and functionally evaluate the upper limb after surgical anatomic reinsertion of the distal biceps brachii tendon using an ACL TightRope® RT with a titanium cortical button and ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) suture, and to assess postoperative complications.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The sample comprised 3 patients. Clinical examination (history, measurements of the active range of forearm motion, arm circumference, the maximum isometric forearm supination and flexion muscle torque), pain evaluation (on a visual analogue scale [VAS]) and functional assessment (the Mayo Elbow Performance Index [MEPI] and Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand [DASH]) were carried out. Complications were documented.

RESULTS

The results of the range of motion measurements, arm circumferences and normalized isometric torque values of the muscle groups being studied were comparable in the involved and uninvolved limbs. The MEPI (x = 95.00 ± 10.42) and Quick DASH (x = 8.66 ± 18.04) scores revealed very good results. The VAS results were close to no pain (x = 3.33 ± 5.77 mm). No complications were noted.

CONCLUSIONS

The preliminary comprehensive clinical and functional assessment of the upper limb justify the clinical use of the ACL TightRope® RT with a titanium cortical button and UHMWPE suture in surgical anatomic reinsertion of the distal biceps brachii tendon. The early results with a small sample were encouraging, but studies with a larger number of cases and longer follow-up are needed.

Long-Term Results of Neurectomy Through a Dorsal Approach in the Treatment of Morton's Neuroma

BACKGROUND

Morton's neuroma, a painful enlargement of the plantar digital nerve between the metatarsal heads, is a common cause of metatarsalgia. The etiology and treatment are still a controversial matter.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to evaluate the long-term follow-up results of neurectomy through a dorsal approach and to identify prognostic factors that can affect the final outcome.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included 41 patients who were treated for Morton's neuroma. Their average age was 44 years (range: 25-69 years). The average follow-up time was 7.4 years (range: 5-12 years). Surgery was performed through a dorsal approach. The clinical evaluations, visual analog scale (VAS) scores and American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores were assessed.

RESULTS

The mean preoperative AOFAS score was 39.4 ± 7.84 and the mean postoperative AOFAS score was 83.4 ± 12.1. The mean preoperative VAS scale was 7.04 ± 1.4 and the mean postoperative VAS scale was 1.4 ± 0.8. There were 31 patients (76%) with very good results in the subjective and objective patient assessments; six (15%) had good results; one (2%) had satisfactory results and three (7%) had poor results. Statistically significant differences in the results between single and multiple neuromas were found, depending on the size of the neuromas and the duration of the symptoms. There were no statistically significant differences depending on the time between surgery and assessment, on steroid injections before operation or on the duration of preoperative conservative treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the development of less invasive techniques and very good outcomes in a short period of time, long-term results have shown that neurectomy is still useful in the treatment of Morton's neuroma. The results of the study show that the outcome does not change during the postoperative follow-up period. The best results were achieved in the case of single neuromas larger than 3 mm that were resected within 12 months of the onset of symptoms.

Causes of Secondary Radial Nerve Palsy and Results of Treatment

Background

The aim of this study was to analyze the causes that lead to secondary damage of the radial nerve and to discuss the results of reconstructive treatment.

Material/Methods

The study group consisted of 33 patients treated for radial nerve palsy after humeral fractures. Patients were diagnosed based on clinical examinations, ultrasonography, electromyography, or nerve conduction velocity. During each operation, the location and type of nerve damage were analyzed. During the reconstructive treatment, neurolysis, direct neurorrhaphy, or reconstruction with a sural nerve graft was used. The outcomes were evaluated using the Medical Research Council (MRC) scales and the quick DASH score.

Results

Secondary radial nerve palsy occurs after open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) by plate, as well as by closed reduction and internal fixation (CRIF) by nail. In the case of ORIF, it most often occurs when the lateral approach is used, as in the case of CRIF with an insertion interlocking screws. The results of the surgical treatment were statistically significant and depended on the time between nerve injury and revision (reconstruction) surgery, type of damage to the radial nerve, surgery treatment, and type of fixation. Treatment results were not statistically significant, depending on the type of fracture or location of the nerve injury.

Conclusions

The potential risk of radial nerve neurotmesis justifies an operative intervention to treat neurological complications after a humeral fracture. Adequate surgical treatment in many of these cases allows for functional recovery of the radial nerve.

Migration and population ageing: a case of Poland

The effect of internal migration on population aging in Poland is assessed, using data for the years 1950-1988. Trends are presented for the country as a whole, by individual voivodship, and for rural regions that have experienced rapid depopulation. The authors conclude that "internal migrations have no direct influence on the population's ageing process, and [are] insignificant. The influence grows in the spatial perspective; it becomes strongest in the case of migrations between urban and rural areas. Its intensity is best revealed in the...depopulation in rural areas."

Migration and healing of ligament cells under inflammatory conditions

It is well documented that the adult human medial collateral ligament has a functional healing response, whereas the anterior cruciate ligament does not. The differential healing responses of the medial collateral and anterior cruciate ligaments could be due to factors caused by different biological conditions and locations in vivo. In addition, different intrinsic properties of the constituent cells of these ligaments may contribute to their different healing abilities. Ligament healing follows an orderly process of hemorrhage, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. At the cellular level, healing involves a cell's detachment from and attachment to the matrix adjacent to the wound area, migration, and proliferation. This study sought to investigate whether, during migration, the responses of the medial collateral and anterior cruciate ligament fibroblasts are intrinsically different under the same inflammatory conditions. Human medial collateral and anterior cruciate ligament fibroblast cells were cultured, and in vitro wounds were simulated by streaking the cells with an inoculating loop, creating a cell-free area. The migration of the cells into this gap, thus filling the cell-free area, was observed. Two sets of experiments were conducted; one varied the wound width and the other added the inflammatory factors tumor necrosis factor-alpha, complement C5a, and lipopolysaccharide. As the width of the wound increased, the rate of recovery decreased for both types of ligament cells (slope: anterior cruciate ligament, 0.13 hour/micron and medial collateral ligament, 0.10 hour/micron). Also, the three inflammatory factors used all inhibited the recovery rates of both ligaments to ones that were 1.4-2.3 times slower than controls. However, in both sets of experiments, the anterior cruciate ligament fibroblasts were more sensitive to inflammatory factors, and the medial collateral ligament fibroblasts had faster recovery rates (anterior cruciate ligament, 1.2-3.4 times slower than rates for medial collateral ligament fibroblasts, excluding those under lipopolysaccharide treatment). The results showed that medial collateral and anterior cruciate ligament fibroblasts responded differently under the same inflammatory conditions. This may suggest that these differences in intrinsic properties contribute to their different healing responses and abilities.

The influence of immobilization stress on natural killer cytotoxic activity in halothane susceptible and resistant pigs

In halothane-susceptible (Hal+) and halothane-resistant (Hal-) Belgian Landrace pigs, the influence of immobilization stress on cytotoxic activity of natural killer (NK) cells was evaluated. Four hour immobilization causes biphasic changes in cytotoxicity, i.e. an initial increase followed by a subsequent depression. In both groups of pigs stress-induced suppression of NK cell activity lasted for several days in the post stress period. Throughout the experiment, i.e. before, during and after stress, the level of cytotoxicity was higher in Hal+ than in Hal- pigs.

The quality of natural environment and mortality (based on the example of major cities in Poland)

"The paper presents the results of [a] study on the relationship between environmental degeneration and mortality in major cities of Poland [during the 1980s].... The authors examine 22 major cities differed according to the degree of pollution.... The analysis employs...life tables and methods of multiple regression.... The influence of the natural environment quality on mortality is diversified according to sex and age but in general, the interdependence is not strong."

Recent studies on migration in Poland

The author reviews studies conducted between 1985 and 1990 concerning the impact of migration on socioeconomic development in Poland. The focus is on the consequences of rural-urban movement. "According to the results of [the] analysis, the demographic consequences of migration are...significant for rural areas, especially the ones showing large and long-term population outflow. The consequences of this stream of migration are not significant for the population situation on a nation-wide scale."

Evaluation of the antiemetic effect of domperidon in patients treated with cytostatic drugs

Forty patients with various neoplastic syndromes received domperidon as a drug reducing nausea and vomiting. The drug prevents in the daily dose of 30 mg completely the occurrence of nausea and vomiting in 30% of the patients and in 58% considerably reduces their intensity. The dose of 60 mg abolishes nausea and vomiting in 60% of the patients and alleviates in 35%. The drug had been administered through the whole period of chemotherapy without any side effects which may be attributed to its antagonist action to dopamine.

[Evaluation of anti-emetic action of domperidone in patients treated with cytostatics]

Domperidone was administered to 40 patients with various neoplastic syndromes to prevent nausea and vomiting observed during previous courses of chemotherapy. It was found, that daily dose of 30 mg completely prevents nausea and vomiting in 30% of patients and significantly lowers such symptoms in further 58% of patients. An increase in a daily dose of 60 mg abolishes nausea and vomiting in 60%, and decrease their intensity in 35% of patients. Domperidone was administered orally during the whole period of chemotherapy without any adverse reactions related to its anti-dopamine actions.

[Problem of stomatologic treatment of special-care children]

Difficulties in the stomatological treatment of special care children are described. Usually general anaesthesia was necessary, and the procedures were limited to teeth extraction. The authors stress the need for organization of special therapeutic centres where comprehensive stomatological treatment could be administered.

Natural killer sensitivity of four Bomirski melanoma variants

The sensitivity of four hamster melanoma variant cells to natural killer (NK) cell lysis mediated by hamster blood and spleen mononuclear cells is examined. The melanoma variants differed in their differentiation level, growth rate, and frequency and localization of metastases. The cells of the melanoma variants were found to differ in their sensitivity to NK cell mediated lysis. A consistent relationship between high sensitivity to lysis and such tumor characteristics as low differentiation level, slow growth rate, low metastatic potential was not observed.

Complementary DNA probes for the Duchenne muscular dystrophy locus demonstrate a previously undetectable deletion in a patient with dystrophic myopathy, glycerol kinase deficiency, and congenital adrenal hypoplasia

Genomic DNA from a patient with dystrophic myopathy, glycerol kinase deficiency, and congenital adrenal hypoplasia was investigated using cDNA probes for the Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) locus. Genomic probes had not detected a deletion in this patient. Southern analysis of Hind III-digested genomic DNA from this patient identified a deletion when the three distal Hinc II DMD cDNA fragments were used as probes. The deletion began in the genomic region corresponding to the 1.05-kb Hinc II cDNA fragment and extended through the 3' end of the DMD gene. This represents a centromeric breakpoint that corresponds to a position approximately 10.2-10.6 kb from the 5' end of the 14-kb DMD cDNA. These investigations demonstrate the value of the DMD cDNA probes for improved diagnoses in patients with molecular lesions involving the DMD locus. Furthermore, this novel deletion involving the coding portion of the 3' end of the DMD gene assists in the ordering of exons in this region and will provide insight into the functional role of the carboxy terminus of the DMD gene product, dystrophin.

Cefuroxime axetil in the treatment of cutaneous infections

A multicenter clinical trial was conducted in 125 out-patients with skin and skin structure infections due to bacteria in order to compare the safety and efficacy of cefuroxime axetil and cefaclor. Patients with a median age of 32 years were randomly allocated to treatment for 10 days with one of three treatments: cefuroxime axetil 250 mg b.i.d., cefuroxime axetil 500 mg b.i.d., or cefaclor 250 mg t.i.d. Clinical evaluations of each patient were done pre-treatment, 2 to 4 days intra-treatment, and within 3 days post-treatment. One patient discontinued cefuroxime axetil due to severe urticaria and one patient discontinued cefaclor due to a persistent headache and vomiting. Cefuroxime axetil was an effective antibacterial agent for treatment of common skin infections. Clinically beneficial outcome was achieved for 92% (cefuroxime axetil 250 mg b.i.d.), 95% (cefuroxime axetil 500 mg b.i.d.), and 97% (cefaclor 250 mg t.i.d.) of patients. Since the study failed to demonstrate a significant advantage of higher dosage, cefuroxime axetil should be prescribed in a regimen of 250 mg twice a day for patients with skin infections.

Effect of air ions on L 1210 cells: changes in fluorescence of membrane-bound 1,8-aniline-naphthalene-sulfonate (ANS) after in vitro exposure of cells to air ions

The ability of air ions to produce changes in the electrical properties of L 1210 mouse leukemia cells was tested. The fluorescence of ANS incorporated into a membrane lipid bilayer (measured microphotometrically) was used as a probe. It was shown that the action of air ions of both signs could change (negative ions by increasing and the positive ones by decreasing) the fluorescence intensity of ANS in the cell surface structures or to an imbalance of ions inside and outside the cell. Both possibilities are discussed in the light of the results of experiments using ouabain or biguanide as factors diminishing the intensity of ANS fluorescence.

Modification of suppressor/cytotoxic and helper subsets in lentil lectin-pretreated mice

The effect of lentil lectin (LCA) on various lymphocyte subpopulations in the spleen, lymph nodes and thymus of CBA mice was studied. The most marked effect after five 1-mg LCA doses was observed in the spleen. LCA caused a drop in both the total and relative number of cells carrying all the markers examined, i.e., Thy 1, L3/T4a, Lyt 2, and sIg, so that large numbers of lymphocytes did not express any of them. A dramatic decrease in the Thy 1-positive cell number is mainly due to depletion of the L3/T4a (helper) T cell subpopulation, whereas the Lyt 2+ (suppressor/cytotoxic) cells are less affected. The decrease in the Thy 1+, Lyt 1+ and L3/T4a+ cell numbers in the thymus and lymph nodes is smaller, the percentage of Lyt 2+ cells is even increased after LCA treatment. Our results indicate that two mechanisms play a role in the induction of allotransplantation tolerance by LCA: 'depletion' of helper T cells and a relative increase in the regulatory (suppressor) cell ratio, which may support allograft survival.

Decreased membrane potential of T lymphocytes in ageing mice: flow cytometric studies with a carbocyanine dye

The membrane potential of lymphocytes from young (1-4-month-old) and old (25-37-month-old) CBA/Ca mice was studied with the aid of the fluorescent dye 3,3'-dihexyloxacarbocyanine iodide (DiOC6(3)). In young mice, most B and T lymphocytes showed a high, and equal, degree of polarization. In old animals most, and in the older individuals almost all, T lymphocytes were found to be depolarized; both Lyt-2+ and Lyt-2- subsets were affected. B cells were largely unaffected. Since changes in transmembrane potential, including temporary hyperpolarization, are known to accompany lymphocyte activation, the depolarized state of T cells in old mice may be related to the decline of T-cell function that occurs during senescence.

The influence of the membrane sodium pump activity on the ability of human peripheral blood lymphocytes to form early rosettes with SRBC

The influence of changes of the cation-transporting activity of the membrane Na,K ATP-ase of human peripheral blood lymphocytes on their ability to form 'early' and 'late' rosettes with SRBC was investigated. It was shown that inhibition of the Na,K ATP-ase-dependent cation transport through the lymphocyte membrane by means of incubation of the cells with various specific inhibitors of the enzyme (ouabain, vanadate) or depletion of the magnesium cations from the incubation medium caused the rise in the percentage of early rosettes, having no influence on the late E rosette percentage. The possible explanation of the observed phenomena is discussed with regard to (ion transport-dependent) electrical forces present at the surface of resting and activated lymphocytes.

Age-dependent decline of natural killer and antibody-dependent cell mediated cytotoxicity activity of human lymphocytes is connected with decrease of their acid phosphatase activity

Decline of cytotoxic potential of lymphocytes of aged persons in ADCC and NK cell mediated cytotoxic reaction was paralleled by a drop in the activity of acid phosphatase. Intensity of ADCC reaction and the level of acid phosphatase activity showed statistically significant correlation when these two parameters were measured in peripheral blood of the same persons. The role of acid phosphatase in cytotoxic function of lymphocytes is discussed.

Activity of acid phosphatase in resting and mitogen-stimulated human peripheral blood lymphocytes

Activity of acid phosphatase was found to be higher in T than in non-T cells of human peripheral blood lymphocytes. The T cell mitogen PHA induced an increase in the magnitude of acid phosphatase activity, while the B cell mitogen LPS was not able to produce any effect on acid phosphatase activity. Acid phosphatase activity in lymphocytes correlated with their spontaneous proliferative activity.

[On population policy in Poland]

The authors regard population policy to be a system of conscious actions aimed at causing desirable changes in shaping demographic processes and in consequence achieving the desired number, structure, and settlement of the population. Such policy should lead to minimization of perturbative role of population factor in socioeconomic development. The authors carried out a review of methods applied in Polish social policy during 40 post-war years which had effect on the demographic situation in the country. The review led them to the conclusion that actions taken for population policy quite often did not meet demographic trends and resulted in deepening irregularities in the demographic development of the country. The authors seek to answer the question whether there is a need for population policy in Poland and to determine the most crucial points of that policy.

Age-related changes of activity of acid phosphatase in PHA-stimulated lymphocytes

Peripheral blood lymphocytes of 70-year-old individuals as well as spleen cells of 18-month-old Balb/c mice were characterized by diminished activity of acid phosphatase in relation to the activity of that enzyme in cells from young subjects. Simultaneously performed histochemical tests revealed that aging process in both species examined was accompanied by a reduction of the number of cells, disclosing the activity of acid phosphatase. Age-related differences with regard to the level of acid phosphatase became more pronounced after stimulation of cells with PHA. The decrease of acid phosphatase activity during aging is discussed in relation to the function of lymphocytes.

Monensin-induced inhibition of cell spreading in normal and dystrophic human fibroblasts

Cultured skin fibroblasts from normal individuals and from patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy spread equally rapidly when seeded on a glass substratum. Exposure to the ionophore monensin substantially suppresses normal and dystrophic fibroblast spreading in serum-free media for up to at least 100 min. Preincubation of normal fibroblasts with monensin causes a further reduction in cell spreading. Dystrophic fibroblasts fail to spread as well as normal cells after monensin preincubation. Such findings indicate that there is a delay in the secretion of functional adhesive surface proteins in monensin-preincubated normal fibroblasts and that this lag period is significantly longer in dystrophic fibroblasts. These data are consistent with findings of altered adhesive and secretory properties of fibroblasts from patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

The correlation between serum lipid levels and the percentage of human peripheral blood lymphocytes bearing some surface markers

The correlations between serum HDL, total cholesterol, triglycerides or free fatty acids levels and the percentage of human peripheral blood lymphocytes bearing receptors for SRBC, MRBC, Con A or sIgG were sought in the aged people. The persons examined showed a marked heterogeneity in their serum lipid levels as well as in the results of lymphocyte surface receptor analysis. However, the only correlation found was that between the percentage of MRBC-rosette forming cells and the level of serum free fatty acids. The total cholesterol level, known as the modulator of some physical parameters of lymphocyte membrane, had, in our examination, no correlation with the changes of surface properties of lymphocytes. The possible physiological role of the phenomena observed is discussed.

Dielectric properties of murine lymphocytes

Dielectric measurements in frequency range from 0.032 up to 110 MHZ were performed on the suspension of lymphocytes isolated from the spleen of Balb/c mouse. Basing on measurements of electric capacitance (C) and electric conductance (G) of lymphocyte suspension and on the simplified Pauly-Schwan equations the following electrical parameters of lymphocytes were calculated: relative electrical permittivity of the intracellular substance (epsilon i = 136) electrical conductivity of the inner phase (intracellular substance) (kappa i = 8.94 mS/cm), specific capacitance of cell membrane (CM = 0.82 microF/cm2). Relative electrical permittivity of the membrane (epsilon s = 4.6) has also been calculated. Two of those quantities (epsilon i = and kappa i) additionally determined by means of empirical dependences. The value of epsilon i and kappa i were respectively 125 and 8.79 mS/cm. All those measurements were taken at temperature amounting to 293 K.

The ANAE reaction pattern of reticular stromal cells of lymphatic organs from normal and hydrocortisone--treated mice

The pattern of alpha-naphthyl-acetate esterase (ANAE) activity in stromal and lymphatic cells has been examined in lymphatic organs from normal and hydrocortisone (HC)-treated mice. The distribution of ANAE-positive lymphocytes as well as stromal cells in peripheral lymphatic organs was different in T- and B-dependent regions, while in the thymus there was the difference between cortex and medulla. The HC application evoked a marked changes in the pattern of ANAE-positive cells distribution of the thymus, producing only a slight ones in the remaining organs. The influence of HC on the ANAE reaction intensity and distribution in the examined tissue sections is discussed.