Information flow between hippocampus and related structures during various types of rat's behavior

The relationships among the CA1 field of hippocampus, the entorhinal-piriform area, the subiculum and the lateral septum were studied in various behavioral states in the rat. The EEG signals recorded simultaneously from chronically implanted electrodes were analyzed by means of a multichannel autoregressive (AR) model. Power spectra, ordinary, multiple and partial coherences, and directed transfer functions were calculated. The method of analysis which took into account all signals simultaneously, not pair-wise, made it possible to estimate the spectral characteristics and the directions of the EEG flow between structures. The pattern of the EEG activity propagation depended on the type of behavior, difficulty of the task performed by the animal, and the phase of the trial. Our results not only confirmed the existence of connections between analyzed structures, but also showed that these connections may have different strengths during various types of behavior.

Ictal propagation of high frequency activity is recapitulated in interictal recordings: effective connectivity of epileptogenic networks recorded with intracranial EEG

Seizures are increasingly understood to arise from epileptogenic networks across which ictal activity is propagated and sustained. In patients undergoing invasive monitoring for epilepsy surgery, high frequency oscillations have been observed within the seizure onset zone during both ictal and interictal intervals. We hypothesized that the patterns by which high frequency activity is propagated would help elucidate epileptogenic networks and thereby identify network nodes relevant for surgical planning. Intracranial EEG recordings were analyzed with a multivariate autoregressive modeling technique (short-time direct directed transfer function--SdDTF), based on the concept of Granger causality, to estimate the directionality and intensity of propagation of high frequency activity (70-175 Hz) during ictal and interictal recordings. These analyses revealed prominent divergence and convergence of high frequency activity propagation at sites identified by epileptologists as part of the ictal onset zone. In contrast, relatively little propagation of this activity was observed among the other analyzed sites. This pattern was observed in both subdural and depth electrode recordings of patients with focal ictal onset, but not in patients with a widely distributed ictal onset. In patients with focal ictal onsets, the patterns of propagation recorded during pre-ictal (up to 5 min immediately preceding ictal onset) and interictal (more than 24h before and after seizures) intervals were very similar to those recorded during seizures. The ability to characterize epileptogenic networks from interictal recordings could have important clinical implications for epilepsy surgery planning by reducing the need for prolonged invasive monitoring to record spontaneous seizures.

Sexual and reproductive health knowledge in cystic fibrosis female patients and their parents

INTRODUCTION

The changing outcomes for young cystic fibrosis (CF) patients means that reproductive health issues have become an integral part of CF management.

AIM

The aim of this study was to investigate the knowledge and experiences of reproductive and sexual health issues in women with CF and to investigate the knowledge and reproductive health attitudes of their parents.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Assessment of reproductive and sexual health knowledge in female CF patients and their parents.

METHODS

A questionnaire study directed to 120 Polish women with CF aged 16 years and older and their parents.

RESULTS

Sixty-four patients and their parents responded to the questionnaire. Sixty-eight percent of the patients started sexual intercourse at a mean age of 19.2 years. Eighty-four percent of all sexually active women reported that they did not use any form of contraception. Only 32.8% of women understood the problems connected with their own and male fertility in CF. Popular scientific publications and other CF patients were identified as the most important source of information. Only 23% of parents understood the problems connected with female fertility in CF; 44% of parents thought that man with CF had normal fertility. Seventy-five percent of the women and 40% of the parents felt that sexual health discussions should begin between age 12 and 14 years with a CF doctor and the mother.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study showed that significant knowledge gaps exist regarding fertility issues in both CF patients and CF parents. Women with CF have some general knowledge about sexual issues but insufficient knowledge to have a safe sexual life. The results helped us to develop the educational program for CF patients.

Effects of montelukast treatment on clinical and inflammatory variables in patients with cystic fibrosis

BACKGROUND

In cystic fibrosis (CF), the inflammatory process contributes to progressive lung tissue damage. Cysteinyl leukotrienes have been found in the sputum of patients with CF at high concentrations sufficient to cause potent biological effects.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of anti-inflammatory treatment with montelukast sodium in patients with CF.

METHODS

Twenty-six patients aged 6 to 18 years were recruited to this 20-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial. Patients received montelukast or placebo for 8 weeks in addition to their regular CF treatment. Before and after treatment, findings from spirometry, whole-body plethysmography, and the clinical wheezing and cough scales were evaluated. At the same time, serum and sputum samples were obtained for the measurement of eosinophil cationic protein, interleukin 10 (IL-10), IL-8, and myeloperoxidase levels.

RESULTS

Twenty-three patients completed the study. Compared with placebo use, montelukast treatment significantly improved forced expiratory volume in I second, peak expiratory flow, and forced expiratory flow between 25% and 75% and significantly decreased cough and wheezing scale scores (P < .001 for all). There were no significant changes in vital capacity, thoracic gas volume, airway resistance, and residual volume after treatment. Compared with placebo use, montelukast treatment decreased serum and sputum levels of eosinophil cationic protein and IL-8, decreased sputum levels of myeloperoxidase, and increased serum and sputum levels of IL-10 (P < .001 for all).

CONCLUSIONS

Montelukast may have measurable anti-inflammatory properties in patients with CF.

Oscillatory EEG activity induced by conditioning stimuli during fear conditioning reflects Salience and Valence of these stimuli more than Expectancy

Imaging studies have described hemodynamic activity during fear conditioning protocols with stimulus trains in which a visual conditioned stimulus (CS+) is paired with an aversive unconditioned stimulus (US, painful laser pulse) while another visual stimulus is unpaired (CS-). We now test the hypothesis that CS Event Related Spectral Perturbations (ERSPs) are related to ratings of CS Expectancy (likelihood of pairing with the US), Valence (unpleasantness) and Salience (ability to capture attention). ERSP windows in EEG were defined by both time after the CS and frequency, and showed increased oscillatory power (Event Related Synchronization, ERS) in the Delta/Theta Windows (0-8Hz) and the Gamma Window (30-55Hz). Decreased oscillatory power (Event Related Desynchronization - ERD) was found in Alpha (8-14Hz) and Beta Windows (14-30Hz). The Delta/Theta ERS showed a differential effect of CS+ versus CS- at Prefrontal, Frontal and Midline Channels, while Alpha and Beta ERD were greater at Parietal and Occipital Channels early in the stimulus train. The Gamma ERS Window increased from habituation to acquisition over a broad area from frontal and occipital electrodes. The CS Valence and Salience were greater for CS+ than CS-, and were correlated with each other and with the ERD at overlapping channels, particularly in the Alpha Window. Expectancy and CS Skin Conductance Response were greater for CS+ than CS- and were correlated with ERSP at fewer channels than Valence or Salience. These results suggest that Alpha ERSP activity during fear conditioning reflects Valence and Salience of the CSs more than conditioning per se.

Genetic mapping of psl locus and quantitative trait loci for angular leaf spot resistance in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.)

One of the most important cucumber diseases is bacterial angular leaf spot (ALS), whose increased occurrence in open-field production has been observed over the last years. To map ALS resistance genes, a recombinant inbred line (RIL) mapping population was developed from a narrow cross of cucumber line Gy14 carrying psl resistance gene and susceptible B10 line. Parental lines and RILs were tested under growth chamber conditions as well as in the field for angular leaf spot symptoms. Based on simple sequence repeat and DArTseq, genotyping a genetic map was constructed, which contained 717 loci in seven linkage groups, spanning 599.7 cM with 0.84 cM on average between markers. Monogenic inheritance of the lack of chlorotic halo around the lesions, which is typical for ALS resistance and related with the presence of recessive psl resistance gene, was confirmed. The psl locus was mapped on cucumber chromosome 5. Two major quantitative trait loci (QTL) psl5.1 and psl5.2 related to disease severity were found and located next to each other on chromosome 5; moreover, psl5.1 was co-located with psl locus. Identified QTL were validated in the field experiment. Constructed genetic map and markers linked to ALS resistance loci are novel resources that can contribute to cucumber breeding programs.

Electrophysiological correlates of the limbic-motor interactions in various behavioral states in rats

Depth electroencephalographic (EEG) activity was recorded from basolateral amygdala (BLA), ventral subiculum (VSB), n. accumbens (ACC) and subpallidal area (SPL) in freely moving rats, during locomotor tasks with various types of reinforcement in order to compare the strength of limbic-motor interactions in selected behavioral situations. For all EEG signals multichannel coherences (ordinary, multiple and partial) were calculated using autoregression model. Partial coherences indicate the level of synchronization between two signals, thus they were assumed to indicate the strength of direct connection between the structures from which these signals have been recorded. The partial coherences were calculated for six selected frequency bands and the strength of connections within the BLA-VSB-ACC-SPL circuit was estimated for two different behavioral situations and compared. It was found that the strength of connections is sensitive to changes in both motor and emotional aspects of behavioral situation: the strength of BLA-VSB, VSB-ACC, and ACC-SPL depended on motor demands of behavioral task; these of BLA-VSB increased in the highest frequency bands in all emotionally engaging situations when compared with well trained locomotive; the strength of ACC-SPL increased in situations when automatic stereotyped motor behavior was induced by biologically important stimuli, while it decreased or did not change in the motor tasks demanding more precise and quickly adjustable movements. The results are discussed according to the motor-limbic integration model of proposed by Mogenson and show the dynamics of its connections in relation to the motivational-emotional context of the task.

Long-Term Benefits of Inhaled Tobramycin in Children with Cystic Fibrosis: First Clinical Observations from Poland

BACKGROUND

Respiratory disease is the major cause of mortality in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients and inhaled antibiotic therapy may contribute to the stabilization of lung function.

OBJECTIVES

This is a small, open, uncontrolled, observational study of clinical experience obtained with 2 years of maintenance treatment with inhaled tobramycin in 12 children and adolescents with CF.

METHODS

Twelve subjects aged 6-18 years infected by Pseudomonas aeruginosa were qualified for treatment with inhaled tobramycin. Pulmonary function, weight and height, clinical status, and chest X-ray were continually monitored. After an active 2-year treatment period, results of all measured parameters in our patients were compared with their previous results (2-year period before treatment with tobramycin).

RESULTS

During 2 years before treatment with tobramycin solution for inhalation (TOBI), pulmonary function decline was observed, the median value of FEV(1) change was -7.6% (lower quartile -13.1, upper quartile -5.9). After 2 years of treatment, FEV(1) percent predicted value declined by 1.5% (lower quartile -11.1, upper quartile 3.7) from baseline; 2 years of TOBI therapy significantly reduced lung function decline (p = 0.049). There were no significant changes in thoracic gas volume and specific airway resistance before and after treatment. Two years of TOBI therapy significantly improved body mass index (p = 0.02). TOBI treatment significantly delayed progression of pulmonary X-ray changes assessed by Brasfield score (p = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

We found that patients with CF can gain substantial benefits from long-term TOBI treatment, including reduced pulmonary function decline, delayed progression of pulmonary X-ray changes and improved weight gain in growing children and adolescents.

The ECP/Eo count ratio in children with asthma

We hypothesized that the serum eosinophil eationic protein (ECP) concentration to peripheral blood eosinophil count ratio (ECP/Eo ratio), reflecting active eosinophils, could better correlate with asthma severity in asthmatic patients, than each of these parameters alone. One hundred twenty children with mild to moderate persistent stable asthma were included into the study. At the first visit, previous asthma medications were withheld and patients were administered beta-2 agonists "as needed." At the second visit peripheral blood eosinophil count, serum ECP, sIL-2R, and sICAM-1 were measured, and spirometry and histamine challenge tests were performed. During the study, patients filled daily diary cards to assess symptoms score. One hundred seventeen patients completed the study. The univariate logistic regression analysis showed that asthma severity is related to PC20H, ECP, ECP/Eo ratio, sIL-2R, and sICAM-1. In general, patients with higher level of ECP, ECP/Eo ratio, sIL-2R, sICAM-1 and with lower PC20H exhibited the higher risk of moderate asthma. Multivariate regression analysis showed that only PC20H and ECP/Eo ratio were the best predictors of asthma severity; higher PC20H (1 mg/mL change) slightly decrease (OR = 0.656; 95% CI: 0.44-0.99) and higher ECP/Eo ratio (0.1 pg/cell change) increase (OR = 1.84; 95% CI: 1.02-3.34) a risk of moderate asthma. These data show that the ECP/Eo ratio is a better and more useful marker than ECP or peripheral blood eosinophil count separately in assessing asthma in children.

Soluble ligand CD40 and uric acid as markers of atheromatosis in patients with obstructive sleep apnea

The aim of the study was to evaluate the risk of atheromatosis in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), as based on the concentration of the pro-atherogenic soluble CD40L ligand (sCD40L) in relation to the level of uric acid. The serum levels of sCD40L and uric acid were measured in 79 OSA patients (mean apnea/hypopnea index - AHI 34.4 ± 20.9) and in 40 healthy controls. We found that sCD40L was higher in the OSA patients with hyperuricemia than that in the patients with uric acid in the normal range (sCD40L: 9.0 ng/ml vs. 8.0 ng/ml, respectively, p < 0.05). There was a positive association of sCD40L with AHI (p = 0.01) and a negative one with the mean minimal nocturnal SaO₂(p < 0.05). Uric acid correlated negatively with the mean and minimal SaO₂and positively with the oxygen desaturation index (p < 0.05). OSA patients with hyperuricemia also had a higher prevalence of hypertension and ischemic heart disease. We conclude that OSA patients with increased uric acid concentration have increased risk of atheromatosis, as indicated by a higher level of soluble pro-atherogenic ligand CD40, and a higher prevalence of cardiovascular adverse events.

Differentiation of single lymphoma primary cells and normal B-cells based on their adhesion to mesenchymal stromal cells in optical tweezers

We have adapted a non-invasive method based on optical tweezers technology to differentiate between the normal B-cells and the B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (B-NHL) cells derived from clinical samples. Our approach bases on the nascent adhesion between an individual B-cell and a mesenchymal stromal cell. In this study, a single B-cell was trapped and optically seeded on a mesenchymal stromal cell and kept in a direct contact with it until a stable connection between the cells was formed in time scale. This approach allowed us to avoid the introduction of any exogenous beads or chemicals into the experimental setup which would have affected the cell-to-cell adhesion. Here, we have provided new evidence that aberrant adhesive properties found in transformed B-cells are related to malignant neoplasia. We have demonstrated that the mean time required for establishing adhesive interactions between an individual normal B-cell and a mesenchymal stromal cell was 26.7 ± 16.6 s, while for lymphoma cell it was 208.8 ± 102.3 s, p < 0.001. The contact time for adhesion to occur ranged from 5 to 90 s and from 60 to 480 s for normal B-cells and lymphoma cells, respectively. This method for optically controlled cell-to-cell adhesion in time scale is beneficial to the successful differentiation of pathological cells from normal B-cells within the fine needle aspiration biopsy of a clinical sample. Additionally, variations in time-dependent adhesion among subtypes of B-NHL, established here by the optical trapping, confirm earlier results pertaining to cell heterogeneity.

Identification of Fruit-Associated QTLs in Winter Squash (Cucurbita maxima Duchesne) Using Recombinant Inbred Lines

Cucurbita maxima Duchesne squash and pumpkins are cultivated world-wide. Cucurbita maxima fruits are produced for fresh market and are valuable for food processing. Therefore, fruit characteristics and yield are the traits of high economic importance for breeders. To date, the genetic basis of fruit-associated traits in C. maxima have been poorly understood. In the present study, we evaluated fruit-associated traits and conducted quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis using recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from a cross of two inbred lines with different fruit morphotypes. Phenotypic data for nine fruit traits (earliness, weight, number per plant, yield per plant, length and diameter, shape index, flesh thickness, sucrose content and dry matter content) were collected for RILs in two open-field experiments. Pairwise analysis of the phenotypic data revealed correlations among the fruit and yield-associated traits. Using a previously developed genetic map, we identified 26 QTLs for eight traits. The QTLs were found in 10 locations on eight chromosomes of C. maxima. The QTLs were detected across experiments and explained up to 41.4% of the observed phenotypic variations. Major-effect QTLs for multiple fruit-associated traits were clustered on chromosome 4, suggesting that this genomic region has been under selection during diversification and/or domestication of C. maxima.

Vigilance behaviors and EEG activity in sustained attention may affect acute pain

During Sustained Attention to stimuli across many modalities neural activity often decreases over time on task, while Errors in task performance increase (Vigilance Decrement). Sustained Attention to pain has rarely been investigated experimentally despite its clinical significance. We have employed a Sustained Attention protocol (Continuous Performance Task, CPT) in which the subject counts painful laser stimuli (targets) when they occur randomly in a prolonged train of nonpainful nontargets. We hypothesize that the magnitude of the poststimulus oscillatory power divided by baseline power (Event-Related Spectral Perturbation, ERSP - scalp EEG) over Frontoparietal structures will decrease at all frequencies with time on task, while Beta ERSP (14-30Hz) will be correlated with Error Rates in performance of the CPT. During the CPT with a painful target ERSP was found in four separate Windows, as defined by both their frequency band and the time after the stimulus. A Vigilance Decrement was found which confirms that Sustained Attention to pain was produced by this CPT. In addition, Error Rates was correlated inversely with laser energy, and with ratings of pain unpleasantness and salience. Error Rates also were related directly to the Beta ERSP Window at scalp EEG electrodes over the central sulcus. Over time on task, the ERSP magnitude decreased in Alpha (8-14Hz) Window, was unchanged in early and late Delta/Theta Windows (0-8Hz), and increased in the Beta Window. The increase in Beta ERSP and a decrease in the Alpha ERSP occurred at the same EEG electrode over the parietal lobe to a significant degree across subjects. Overall, Beta activity increases with time on task, and with higher Error Rates as in the case of other modalities. In the case of pain increased Errors correspond to misidentification of painful and nonpainful stimuli and so modulate the sensation of pain under the influence of Sustained Attention.

Genetic mapping of ovary colour and quantitative trait loci for carotenoid content in the fruit of Cucurbita maxima Duchesne

The high content of carotenoids, sugars, dry matter, vitamins and minerals makes the fruit of winter squash (Cucurbita maxima Duchesne) a valuable fresh-market vegetable and an interesting material for the food industry. Due to their nutritional value, long shelf-life and health protective properties, winter squash fruits have gained increased interest from researchers in recent years. Despite these advantages, the genetic and genomic resources available for C. maxima are still limited. The aim of this study was to use the genetic mapping approach to map the ovary colour locus and to identify the quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for high carotenoid content and flesh colour. An F₆ recombinant inbred line (RIL) mapping population was developed and used for evaluations of ovary colour, carotenoid content and fruit flesh colour. SSR markers and DArTseq genotyping-by-sequencing were used to construct an advanced genetic map that consisted of 1824 molecular markers distributed across linkage groups corresponding to 20 chromosomes of C. maxima. Total map length was 2208 cM and the average distance between markers was 1.21 cM. The locus affecting ovary colour was mapped at the end of chromosome 14. The identified QTLs for carotenoid content in the fruit and fruit flesh colour shared locations on chromosomes 2, 4 and 14. QTLs on chromosomes 2 and 4 were the most meaningful. A correlation was clearly confirmed between fruit flesh colour as described by the chroma value and carotenoid content in the fruit. A high-density genetic map of C. maxima with mapped loci for important fruit quality traits is a valuable resource for winter squash improvement programmes.

[Effect of montelukast on lung function and clinical symptoms in patients with cystic fibrosis]

Inflammatory process contributes to progressive lung tissue damage in cystic fibrosis (CF). Cysteinyl leukotrienes have been found in the sputum of CF patients at concentrations sufficient to cause potent biological effect. This study was designed to assess the effect of anti-inflammatory treatment with montelukast sodium in CF patients. Twelve patients, aged 6-29 were recruited. It was 20 week, placebo-controlled, and randomized, double blind, crossover trial. At first and last week of each treatment course spirometry and whole body plethysmography parameters (FEV1, PEF, FEF25/75%, VC, TGV, Raw and RV) and clinical wheezing and cough scale were measured. In montelukast group significant improvement in FEV1 (mean +/- SD, 54.6 +/- 22.6 before and 62 +/- 19.0 after treatment, p=0.0112) and FEF25/75% (28.9 +/- 23.0 before and 37.5 +/- 25.5 after treatment, p=0.0053) were observed. Compared with placebo montelukast significantly improved FEV1 (p=0.0032), PEF (p=0.0298) and FEF25/75% (p=0.0091). There was no significant difference in VC, TGV, Raw and RV. Montelukast compared with placebo significantly decreased cough (p<0.0001) and wheezing (p=0.0002) score. In summary, therapy with montelukast may provide clinical benefit to patients with CF.

[Early intervention of specialist in children with bronchial asthma as a result of Prevention Program of Allergic Diseases in children]

Nowadays allergic diseases are one of the most important challenges in medicine because of healthful and economical consequences. Early diagnosis and correct treatment of allergic diseases, especially bronchial asthma have become a very important problem. For this purpose, prophylactic and treatment allergic programs are created. In this paper authors describe results of prophylactic program for allergic disease in children in Łódź district in years 2000-2001. Program improved access to specialists and allowed early diagnosis of bronchial asthma and other allergic diseases in children.

[Preliminary results of prophylactic program of allergic diseases in children in Lodz district]

Allergic diseases are one of the most important problems in medicine. As a consequence of increased frequency of allergic diseases, negative health, economical and social problems appear. To eliminate these consequences prophylactic programmes are created. In this paper preliminary results of Prophylactic Program of Allergic Diseases in Children in Łodz district in 2000-2001 years is presented.

[Bronchial asthma--epidemiology, public and economic problems]

In this review, authors described epidemiology of asthma in regards to mortality and disability caused by the disease. In particular, long-time statistical analyses of asthma mortality in United States and Great Britain has been shown. Specific mortality factors between United States and Regional Health Authority of Lodz were compared. Economical costs of asthma management were studied, taking United States as an example. The review also focused on variety of preventive and counteraction programs, for example the national health program--'Prevention and treatment of asthma and allergic diseases'.

[Serum and sputum eosinophil cationic protein levels and clinical status in cystic fibrosis patients]

Recent studies have emphasied the role of eosinophils and it's metabolites in the pathogenesis of lung disease in cystic fibrosis. This study was designed to assess the relationship between serum and sputum ECP levels and clinical status of cystic fibrosis patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

30 patients, aged 6-30 with moderate cystic fibrosis were recruited. Spirometry, weight and high, and Shwachman-Kulczycki score were measured, and serum and sputum samples were obtained for measurements of the eosinophil cationic protein (ECP).

RESULTS

We observed significant inverse correlation between sputum ECP levels and BMI (p<0.001) and FEV1 (p<0.001), and not significant inverse correlation between sputum ECP levels Shwachman-Kulczycki score (p=0.057). There was no signifi cant correlation between sputum ECP levels and FEF25/75% and between serum ECP levels and measured clinical parameters.

CONCLUSIONS

Results of this study suggest influence of eosinophil inflammation in respiratory tract on clinical status of CF patients.

[A case of bilateral internal carotid artery and right vertebral artery occlusion]

The authors discuss a case of a 46 year-old man with bilateral internal carotid artery and right vertebral artery occlusion in unexpectedly good clinical state. The clinical diagnosis is documented by angiographic and doppler findings and brain CT scan.

[Retrospective analysis of the results of Allergic Diseases Prevention Program in children in the Lódź area]

Growing prevalence of allergic diseases requires concentrating on patients' education, prevention, suitable organization of medical care as well as the early diagnosis. It the presented retrospective study of the results of Prevention Allergic Diseases Programme in children in Lodz region in years 2000-2003 was analysed. Analysis of medical records of patients undergone preventive program showed: solid growth of number of patients with allergic disease in frames of Programme, the solid growth of percentage of new diagnosed allergic diseases, essential changes in structure of diagnosed allergic diseases during Programme, particularly visible in the youngest age group up to 5 years of age as well as the systematic fall in number of hospitalization from asthma and atopic dermatitis. With attention on growing number of referred patients Program should be continued and with the reason of still missing good medical care in children of Lodz region.

[Pregnancy in cystic fibrosis patients--investigational study]

AIM

The purpose of this study was to investigate the consequences of pregnancy on women with CF and to clarify the impact of the disease on newborn health.

METHODS

It was a retrospective study; a postal questionnaire was sent to 12 woman having a registered pregnancy in National Cystic Fibrosis Registry between 1984 and 2004 (2 to 23 years after delivery).

RESULTS

There was a 100% response rate. 16 pregnancies have been reported (4 patients had two pregnancies); there were 16 live births of which 11 (69%) were premature, 10 (62%) of newborns had low weight. There was one neonatal death. The mean prepregnancy FEV1 (% predicted) and BMI (kg/m2) were 56,6 +/- 14,8% (range 35-95) and 19,9 +/- 1,5 (range 18-23) respectively. The mean FEV1 during pregnancy was 47,7 +/- 15,1% (range 23-87), mean maternal weight gain during pregnancy was 5,5kg. There was a significant decline in FEV1 during pregnancy (16.6 +/- 6,4%, p<0.05) as compared to prepregnancy values. Two women had diabetes mellitus and two developed gestational diabetes. Mean postpregnancy (12 months after delivery) FEV1 was 54.1 +/- 18.8% (range 22-103) and mean BMI was 18.7 +/- 1.8 kg/m2 (range 15-22). There was a significant postpregnancy decline in FEV1 (6.2 +/- 10.6%, p=0.027) and in BMI (1 +/- 1.14 kg/m2, p<0.01) as compared to prepregnancy values. Microbiological status remains unchanged. 11 patients are alive; one patient died 11 years after delivery. The mean follow up time was 8.5 +/- 3.6 years (range 2-23).

CONCLUSIONS

Pregnancy was well tolerated in our population of CF women, although affected the rate of yearly decline in FEV1 and BMI. Increased risk of premature and low newborn weight were observed. All pregnancies in CF women should be planned and monitored by CF team.