Effect of speed and water depth on limb and back kinematics in Thoroughbred horses walking on a water treadmill

Water treadmill (WT) exercise may induce limb and back kinematics that meet specific training and rehabilitation goals. The study aimed to investigate the effects of walk speed, at different water depths (WDs), on limb and back kinematics of six Thoroughbreds exercising on a WT. Horses walked at 2.8/4.3/5.5/6.0 km/h (i.e. 0.8/1.2/1.5/1.7 m/s) at dry, metacarpophalangeal and carpal WD. Videography captured limb movement in the sagittal plane. Motion-capture measured thoracolumbosacral flexion-extension (FE), and lateral bend (LB) ranges of movement (ROM) using skin surface markers on the sixth, tenth, thirteenth, eighteenth thoracic, third and fifth lumbar, and third sacral spinous processes. Inertial-motion-sensors measured poll, withers and pelvic displacements. Following preliminary univariable analyses, multivariable mixed-effects linear-regression analyses were used to examine the relationship between speed, WD and each outcome variable (P < 0.05). Peak metacarpophalangeal, carpal and tarsal joint flexion increased with speed (P ≤ 0.002) and depth combined (P 0.001) while peak metatarsophalangeal flexion increased with WD only (P 0.001). Thoracolumbar FE-ROM between T10 and L3 and hindlimb retraction was increased by speed and WD combined (P 0.001). Hindlimb protraction was increased by speed (P 0.001) while hindlimb retraction was increased by speed and WD combined (P 0.001). Dorsoventral poll displacement was increased by speed (P 0.001) and carpal WD (P = 0.013), craniocaudal poll displacement was increased by speed and WD combined (P 0.001). Pelvic (tubera coxae and sacrum) dorsoventral displacements increased with speed and WD combined (P 0.001). Understanding the effects of speed and WD on limb, back and pelvic kinematics will improve decision making relating to dry and WT exercise within training.

Association of low ficolin-2 concentration in cord serum with respiratory distress syndrome in preterm newborns

Introduction

Ficolin-2 is a serum pattern recognition molecule, involved in complement activation via the lectin pathway. This study aimed to investigate the association of ficolin-2 concentration in cord blood serum with complications related to premature birth.

Methods

546 premature neonates were included. The concentration of ficolin-2 in cord blood serum was determined by a sandwich TRIFMA method. FCN2 genetic variants were analysed with RFLP-PCR, allele-specific PCR, Sanger sequencing or allelic discrimination using TaqMan probes method.

Findings

Cord blood serum ficolin-2 concentration correlated positively with Apgar score and inversely with the length of hospitalisation and stay at Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that low ficolin-2 increased the possibility of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) diagnosis [OR=2.05, 95% CI (1.24-3.37), p=0.005]. Median ficolin-2 concentration was significantly lower in neonates with RDS than in premature babies without this complication, irrespective of FCN2 gene polymorphisms localised to promoter and 3'untranslated regions: for patients born <33 GA: 1471 ng/ml vs. 2115 ng/ml (p=0.0003), and for patients born ≥33 GA 1610 ng/ml vs. 2081 ng/ml (p=0.012). Ficolin-2 level was also significantly lower in neonates requiring intubation in the delivery room (1461 ng/ml vs. 1938 ng/ml, p=0.023) and inversely correlated weakly with the duration of respiratory support (R=-0.154, p<0.001). Interestingly, in the neonates born at GA <33, ficolin-2 concentration permitted differentiation of those with/without RDS [AUC=0.712, 95% CI (0.612-0.817), p<0.001] and effective separation of babies with mild RDS from those with moderate/severe form of the disease [AUC=0.807, 95% CI (0.644-0.97), p=0.0002].

Conclusion

Low cord serum ficolin-2 concentration (especially in neonates born at GA <33 weeks) is associated with a higher risk of developing moderate/severe RDS, requiring respiratory support and intensive care.

Valorisation of agri-food waste to fertilisers is a challenge in implementing the circular economy concept in practice

The area of agricultural wastes valorisation to fertilizers is attracting growing attention because of the increasing fertilizer prices of fertilizers and the higher costs of waste utilization. Despite the scientific and political interest in the concept of circular economy, few studies have considered the practical approach towards the implementation of elaborated technologies. This article outlines innovative strategies for the valorisation of different biobased wastes into fertilizers. The present work makes a significant contribution to the field of new ideas for waste biomass management to recover significant fertilizer nutrients. These results emphasize the importance of the biomass use as a base of renewable resources, which has recently gained special importance, especially in relation to the outbreak of pandemia and war. Broken supply chains and limited access to deposits of raw materials used in fertilizer production (natural gas, potassium salts) meant that now, as never before, it has become more important and feasible to implement the idea of a circular economy and a green deal. We have obtained satisfactory results that demonstrate that appropriate management of biological waste (originating from agriculture, food processing, aquaculture, forest, pharmaceutical industry, and other branches of industry, sewage sludge) will not only reduce environmental nuisance (reducing waste heaps), but will also allow recovery of valuable materials, such as nitrogen (especially valuable amino acids), phosphorus, potassium, microelements, and biologically active substances with properties that stimulate plant growth. The results reported here provide information on production of biobased plant protection products (bioagrochemicals) from agri-food waste. This work reports an overview of biopesticides and biofertilisers production technologies and summarizes their properties and the mechanisms of action.

Chemopreventive properties of spent hops (Humulus Lupulus L.) extract against angiogenesis, invasion and migration of colorectal cancer cells

There is a great deal of interest in identifying new chemopreventive agents for colorectal cancer, one of the leading causes of cancer-related death. One promising group of candidates is the polyphenols; being natural compounds with high structural diversity, they have a very wide spectrum of anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and anti-cancer properties. The present study reports for the first time that spent hops extract (SHE) inhibits the angiogenesis, invasion and migration of SW-480 and HT-29 colorectal adenocarcinoma cells; after incubation with 200 μg/mL SHE, SW-480 and HT-29 cell invasion fell by 98.5% and 89% vs. controls, and migration was inhibited by 99% and 88% vs. controls. These changes were accompanied by a decline of matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) and MMP-9 expression and activity. In addition, SHE reduced the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor and hypoxia-inducible factor 1α for both cell lines, indicating that the tested extract has anti-angiogenic potential. In conclusion, our data shows that SHE may be an effective chemopreventive agent acting via the inhibition of angiogenesis, invasion and migration of colorectal cancer cells.

Chemoprotective effects of Japanese quince (Chaenomeles japonica L.) phenol leaf extract on colon cancer cells through the modulation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases/AKT signaling pathway

Japanese quince leaf phenol-rich extract (PRE) represents a good source of phenolic compounds, among which chlorogenic acid and naringenin hexoside are the main constituents. The aim of this research was to evaluate the chemopreventive activity of PRE in human colon cancer (SW-480 and HT-29) and human normal colon cell line (CCD 841 CoN). All cell lines were exposed to different concentrations of the extract (150-500 κg/mL for SW-480 and CCD 841 CoN; and 250-750 κg/mL for HT-29) to investigate migration and invasion, as well as the activity and secretion of metalloproteinases (MMP-2 and MMP-9) involved in these mechanisms. Moreover, the influence of PRE on the activity of ERK and AKT pathways, which are strongly involved in colon cancer development (CRC), were measured. Our results demonstrated that PRE significantly inhibited migration and invasion in SW-480, HT-29 and CCD 841 CoN cells through MMP-2 and MMP-9-dependent mechanisms. We also proved that PRE can effectively downregulate both the activity and protein expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in these cell lines. The exception was the higher concentration of PRE, which up-regulated the protein expression of MMP-9 in SW-480. Additionally, we showed that significant inhibition of p-ERK/p-AKT expression in SW-480 after treatment with PRE is involved in chemopreventive effects of this extract. In case of exposure of HT-29 cells to PRE, we observed a significant upregulation of p-ERK protein expression, and suppression of p-AKT mechanism. This research of Japanese quince phenol leaf extract suggests its application in colon cancer prevention and treatment due to its ability to inhibit migration and invasion in MMP-9 and MMP-2-dependent mechanisms via most likely the modulation of ERK and AKT signaling pathways in colon cancer cells. Overall, our results provide an experimental foundation for further research on its potential activities and effects in vivo.

An examination of maximum legal application rates of dairy processing and associated STRUBIAS fertilising products in agriculture

The dairy industry produces vast quantities of dairy processing sludge (DPS), which can be processed further to develop second generation products such as struvite, biochars and ashes (collectively known as STRUBIAS). These bio-based fertilizers have heterogeneous nutrient and metal contents, resulting in a range of possible application rates. To avoid nutrient losses to water or bioaccumulation of metals in soil or crops, it is important that rates applied to land are safe and adhere to the maximum legal application rates similar to inorganic fertilizers. This study collected and analysed nutrient and metal content of all major DPS (n = 84) and DPS-derived STRUBIAS products (n = 10), and created an application calculator in MS Excel™ to provide guidance on maximum legal application rates for ryegrass and spring wheat across plant available phosphorus (P) deficient soil to P-excess soil. The sample analysis showed that raw DPS and DPS-derived STRUBIAS have high P contents ranging from 10.1 to 122 g kg^-1. Nitrogen (N) in DPS was high, whereas N concentrations decreased in thermo-chemical STRUBIAS products (chars and ash) due to the high temperatures used in their formation. The heavy metal content of DPS and DPS-derived STRUBIAS was significantly lower than the EU imposed limits. Using the calculator, application rates of DPS and DPS-derived STRUBIAS materials (dry weight) ranged from 0 to 4.0 tonnes ha^-1 y^-1 for ryegrass and 0-4.5 tonnes ha^-1 y^-1 for spring wheat. The estimated heavy metal ingestion to soil annually by the application of the DPS and DPS-derived STRUBIAS products was lower than the EU guideline on soil metal accumulation. The calculator is adaptable for any bio-based fertilizer, soil and crop type, and future work should continue to characterise and incorporate new DPS and DPS-derived STRUBIAS products into the database presented in this paper. In addition, safe application rates pertaining to other regulated pollutants or emerging contaminants that may be identified in these products should be included. The fertilizer replacement value of these products, taken from long-term field studies, should be factored into application rates.

Polymorphisms of the FCN2 Gene 3'UTR Region and Their Clinical Associations in Preterm Newborns

Ficolin-2 is regarded as an important innate immunity factor endowed with both lectin (carbohydrate recognition) qualities and ability to induce complement activation. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of the FCN2 3'-untranslated region (3'UTR) polymorphisms with ficolin-2 expression and perinatal complications in preterm neonates. The sequencing analysis allowed us to identify six 3'UTR polymorphisms with minor allele frequency (MAF) >1%: rs4521835, rs73664188, rs11103564, rs11103565, rs6537958 and rs6537959. Except for rs4521835, all adhered to Hardy-Weinberg expectations. Moreover, rs6537958 and rs6537959 were shown to be in perfect linkage disequilibrium (LD) with nine other genetic polymorphisms: rs7040372, rs7046516, rs747422, rs7847431, rs6537957, rs6537960, rs6537962, rs11462298 and rs7860507 together stretched on a distance of 1242 bp and very high LD with rs11103565. The 3'UTR region was shown to bind nuclear extract proteins. The polymorphisms at rs4521835 and rs73664188 were found to influence serum ficolin-2 concentration significantly. All polymorphisms identified create (together with exon 8 polymorphism, rs7851696) two haplotype blocks. Among 49 diplotypes (D1-D49) created from rs7851696 (G>T), rs4521835 (T>G), rs73664188 (T>C), rs11103564 (T>C), rs11103565 (G>A) and rs6537959 (T>A), twenty two occurred with frequency >1%. Two diplotypes: D13 (GTTTGT/GGTCGT) and D10 (GTTTGT/GGTCGA), were significantly more frequent among preterm neonates with early onset of infection and pneumonia, compared with newborns with no infectious complications (OR 2.69 and 2.81, respectively; both p<0.05). The minor (C) allele at rs73664188 was associated with an increased risk of very low (≤1500 g) birthweight (OR=1.95, p=0.042) but was associated with the opposite effect at rs11103564 (OR=0.11, p=0.005).

The influence of polyphenol-rich extracts on the production of pro-inflammatory mediators in macrophages

Recent decades have seen a rise in chronic inflammatory diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, neurodegenerative diseases. Importantly, such chronic inflammatory diseases also increase the risk of cancer development and there is a pressing need to identify new anti-inflammatory drugs. One promising source of new medication are natural polyphenolic compounds and polyphenol-rich preparations, extracts and foods, which have strong antioxidant properties. This paper reviews the anti-inflammatory role of polyphenolic-rich natural extracts, and their ability to modulate crucial pro-inflammatory mediators, such as cyclooxygenase-2, prostaglandin E₂, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and nitric oxide, in macrophage cells. Our research confirms that natural compounds have health potential, and could be used in the treatment or prevention of inflammatory diseases.

Japanese quince (Chaenomeles japonica) leaf phenol extract as modulator of the inflammatory response in lipopolysaccharide-triggered murine macrophage RAW 264.7 cells

In the present study we investigated the anti-inflammatory activity of Japanese quince leaf polyphenol-rich extract (JQLPE) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated murine macrophages (RAW 264.7). The Q-PCR analysis revealed that JQLPE decreased Nfkb1, Ptgs2, and Il1b expression at the mRNA level by 80%, 50% and 48%, respectively. Similarly, JQLPE significantly attenuated expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), interleukin-1beta (IL-1β), IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) (by 60%, 50%, 67%, 37% and 36%, respectively) at the protein level and nitric oxide (NO) production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7. Western blot also showed that the expression of nuclear factor kappaB (NF-κB) p65 and p-NF-κB p65 was down-regulated after JQLPE treatment. These results provide the first evidence that JQLPE decreases the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α), inflammatory mediators (COX-2, iNOS) and both NF-κB p65 and p-NF-κB p65 in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells, which may suggest its anti-inflammatory activity.

Biosorption as a method of biowaste valorization to feed additives: RSM optimization

The aim of this work was to prepare an innovative microelemental feed additive for laying hens, based on waste biomass from the agricultural sector (alfalfa and goldenrod after CO₂ extraction in supercritical state). The process was optimized by Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and the most favourable enrichment conditions were selected for Cu(II), Mn(II) and Zn(II) ions: pH - 5, sorbate concentration of Cu(II), Mn(II), Zn(II) - 10.0 mg/L for alfalfa and 10.7 mg/L for goldenrod and biomass dose - 0.1 g/L. Physicochemical properties of biomass were studied and functional groups involved in the binding of Cu(II), Mn(II), Zn(II) ions were determined (mainly carboxylic and hydroxylic groups). An interesting and unique element of this work is the verification of the properties of prepared feed additives in conditions simulating the digestive tract of animals. The release of components in solutions simulating conditions in the intestine and stomach (pH 11 and pH 1) was tested (in vitro tests). The best desorption results were achieved at a strongly acidic pH which corresponds to the stomach environment: 9.80, 14.4% Cu(II), 69.0, 66.9% (Zn), 46.5, 31.9 Mn(II) for alfalfa and goldenrod, respectively. It was concluded that the biomass enriched with micronutrients in biosorption has the potential as a feed additive for sustainable agriculture.

Catheter-related venous thrombosis in NICU: A case-control retrospective study

INTRODUCTION

Newborns treated in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) are susceptible to several complications one of them being vein thrombosis.

AIM

The study aims to evaluate risk factors of catheter-related venous thrombosis, clinical manifestations, treatment, and the outcomes of thrombotic events (TE) during the neonatal period.

METHODS

This work is a case-control retrospective study performed on patients in the tertiary NICU between January 2013 and June 2016. The analysis includes data from infants with CVC diagnosed with thrombosis and infants with CVC, not being diagnosed with thrombosis (control group). Statistica 10 software was used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Vein thrombosis was diagnosed in 19 NICU infants including 16 cases of catheter-related vein thrombosis (84% of complicated cases). Other statistically significant risk factors were asphyxia, infection, and the duration of CVC use. The incidence of thrombosis in our population increased during the study which may result from a statistically significant increase in the number of inserted CVC (294 vs 435), and more frequent diagnosis of incidental thrombosis (1 vs 9).

CONCLUSION

Vein catheterization, asphyxia, infection, and prolonged CVC use are critical risk factors for thrombosis in the neonatal period. Given the hereinbefore mentioned increased number of central line catheterizations in the NICU, it would be useful to conduct a prospective study with a scheduled routine ultrasound protocol applied not only as a tool to diagnose thrombosis but also to prevent it by determining a proper catheter for a particular vein.

Phytochemicals containing biologically active polyphenols as an effective agent against Covid-19-inducing coronavirus

The outbreak of Covid-19 disease caused by SARS-CoV-19, along with the lack of targeted medicaments and vaccines, forced the scientific world to search for new antiviral formulations. In this review, we describe the current knowledge about plant extracts containing polyphenols that inhibit Covid-19. Many plant-derived natural compounds (polyphenols) might provide a starting point for the research on the use of plant extracts in coronavirus treatment and prevention. Antivirus polyphenolic drugs can inhibit coronavirus enzymes, which are essential for virus replication and infection. This group of natural substances (betulinic acid, indigo, aloeemodine, luteolin, and quinomethyl triterpenoids, quercitin or gallates) is a potential key to designing antiviral therapies for inhibiting viral proteases. The known pharmacophore structures of bioactive substances can be useful in the elaboration of new anti-Covid-19 formulations. The benefit of using preparations containing phytochemicals is their high safety for patients and no side effects.

Comparison of phenolic compounds, antioxidant and cytotoxic activity of extracts prepared from Japanese quince (Chaenomeles japonica L.) leaves

Phenolic compounds are very important in the prevention and treatment of many civilization diseases, including colorectal cancer (CRC). In the present study we investigated and compared the phytochemical composition, antioxidant and cytotoxic activity of Japanese quince (Chaenomeles japonica L.) leaves crude phenolic extract (CPE) and purified phenolic-rich extracts (PRE). The UPLC-Q-TOF-MS analysis showed that both extracts contain diversified phenolics compounds (33 - 36 compounds in the PRE and CPE, respectively), among which chlorogenic acid and naringenin hexoside turned out to be the main constituents. Both FRAP and ABTS tests showed that PRE had 2-fold higher antioxidant activity compared to CPE. Furthermore, PRE exhibited a higher cytotoxic activity towards colon cancer cells (SW-480 and HT-29) than CPE. After 24-hours incubation with PRE the IC₅₀ value for SW-480 cell line was obtained at the concentration of 239 μg/mL, while CPE treatment caused the same decrease only after 72h at 277 μg/mL. In addition, PRE had a stronger cytotoxic effect on the colon cancer cell lines (SW-480 and HT-29) than on normal intestinal cells (CCD-18Co and CCD 841 CoN). These results provide the first evidence that extracts from Japanese quince leaves (especially phenolic-rich extract, PRE) strongly decrease the viability of both SW-480 and HT-29 lines, which may suggest their cytotoxic activity towards colon cancer cells.

Spent hops (Humulus Lupulus L.) extract as modulator of the inflammatory response in lipopolysaccharide stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages

Macrophages play important roles in acute and chronic inflammation. Upon their activation, they secrete a variety of mediators, including eicosanoids, nitric oxide and cytokines, which play different roles in the stimulation and resolution of inflammatory processes. There is a continuous search for selective modulators of these processes. Natural polyphenols and polyphenol-rich extracts have been found to possess preventive and therapeutic potential, including by their anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, the inhibition of the formation of inflammatory mediators by the spent hops extract (SHE), a polyphenol-rich extract from Humulus Lupulus L., was examined using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)- activated murine macrophages (RAW 264.7). The SHE suppressed inter alia the interleukin-6 (IL-6) mRNA expression to 32% in LPS-activated macrophages and to 61% at a protein level (at 25 μg/mL). SHE reduced both the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) mRNA expression to 47% and their protein expression to 32%. Not only did SHE inhibit the IL-6 and COX-2 levels but also decreased both inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) protein expression to 2% at 25 μg/mL and nitric oxide (NO) production for all tested concentrations. The inhibited expression of these inflammatory molecules was likely caused by the reduced activity of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). Both mRNA and protein expression of NF-κB was decreased to 38% and 42%, respectively. These results provide the first evidence that SHE decreases the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and inflammatory mediators, which merits further studies to investigate the potential of SHE as anti-inflammatory preparation.

Human skeletal muscle-derived stem/progenitor cells modified with connexin-43 prevent arrhythmia in rat post-infarction hearts and influence gene expression in the myocardium

Stem cell therapy in combination with genetic modification (e.g., transfection with the coding sequence for the connexion 43 gene, GJA1) may solve the problems associated with the occurrence of additional (secondary) stimulation in the post-infarcted heart (arrhythmia). Human skeletal muscle-derived stem/progenitor cells (SkMDS/PCs) were transfected with the pCiNeo-GJA1 plasmid at an efficiency of approximately 96%. Gene overexpression was assessed using qPCR, and subsequent analysis revealed that GJA1 expression increased more than 40-fold in SkMDS/PCs transfected with the appropriate coding sequence (SkMDS/PCsCX43) compared to that of the 'native' SkMDS/PCs control (SkMDS/PCsWT). Enhanced (4-fold) protein expression of connexin-43 was also confirmed by Western immunoblotting. Furthermore, using the arrhythmic score, we demonstrated the positive effects of SkMDS/PCsCX43 cell intervention in reducing additional secondary stimulations in rat post-infarcted hearts compared with that of wild-type cell delivery. Selected gene responses (Kcnq1, Cacna1c, Ncx1, Serca2a, and Tgfb1) showed significantly altered expression profiles in the rat myocardium upon intervention with SkMDS/PCsCX43. The genetic modification of human skeletal muscle-derived stem/progenitor cells with connexin-43 prevented the pro-arrhythmic effects of myogenic implanted stem cells on the host myocardium and positively influenced myocardial gene expression profiles in respect to myocardium conductivity.

Potential applications of cyanobacteria: Spirulina platensis filtrates and homogenates in agriculture

In the present paper, products obtained from a blue-green microalga Spirulina platensis filtrate (applied for seed soaking and for foliar spray) and homogenate (used for seed coating) were tested in the cultivation of radish. Their effect on length, wet mass, multielemental composition and the greenness index of the radish leaves was examined. Multi-elemental analyses of the algal products, and radish were also performed using inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). The best soaking time, concentrations of filtrate and doses of homogenate were established. The longest and heaviest plants were observed for homogenate applied at a dose of 300 µL per 1.5 g of seeds and 15% of filtrate applied as foliar spray. The highest chlorophyll content was found in the group treated with 100 µL of homogenate and 5% of filtrate. In the case of soaking time, the longest plants were in the group where seeds were soaked for 6 h, but the heaviest and greenest were after soaking for 48 h. The applied algal products increased the content of elements in seedlings. Obtained results proved that algal extracts have high potential to be applied in modern horticulture and agriculture. The use of Spirulina-based products is consistent with the idea of sustainable agriculture that could help to ensure production of sufficient human food to meet the needs of rising population and protection of the environment.

Carbon footprint of fertilizer technologies

The work discussed the necessity to evaluate the environmental effect - i.e. carbon footprint (CF), of N-containing fertilizers when including their production, transportation and use. For that purpose, life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology was involved. The LCA-based CF concerned model fertilizer technology determined with the consideration of greenhouse gases assimilation during fertilizer-induced vegetation, as compared to non-treated crops system. According to the available data, the inclusion of CO₂ assimilation by plants via photosynthesis in balance sheet offsets 87.6% of the CF from the biomass consumption. Thus, the new approach to LCA along with the analysis of life cycle costs would provide more reliable determination of the fee amount charged to European fertilizer manufacturers. The approach might be further developed for various products for plant treatment. Also, the verification of similar fertilizer technologies in different installations is expected to identify bottlenecks in terms of the ecological, technical and economic evaluation.

Components of the lectin pathway of complement activation in paediatric patients of intensive care units

Infections are a major cause of childhood mortality. We investigated components of the lectin pathway of complement activation in the context of sepsis at both genetic and protein levels in neonates, infants and older children. Major components of the lectin pathway and two genes for Toll-like receptors were studied in 87 neonates with confirmed sepsis and compared with 40 babies with infections who did not develop sepsis (disease controls) and 273 infection-free neonatal controls. A second cohort comprised 47 older children with sepsis and 87 controls. Low MBL-conferring genotypes (LXA/O+O/O) were more frequent in sepsis patients than in healthy controls but no significant differences in the frequency of SNPs of other lectin pathway genes (FCN1, FCN2, FCN3, MASP1/3, MASP2) or TLR receptor genes (TLR2, TLR4) were found. One case of primary MASP-2 deficiency was found among healthy pre-terms and one neonate suffering from SIRS was heterozygous for the rare FCN1 gene mutation, +6658 G>A. Generally, sepsis was associated with low serum MBL and low ficolin-2 concentrations on admission. Among neonates, ficolin-1 and MASP-2 levels were elevated in sepsis relative to healthy, but not disease, controls. Unlike neonates, ficolin-3 and MASP-2 levels were lower in older patients than in healthy controls while no difference was found for ficolin-1. With the possible exception of MBL, inherited lectin pathway insufficiencies do not seem to predispose to sepsis, rather changes in protein concentrations reflect alterations in disease course.

Prediction of short-term newborn infectious morbidity based on maternal characteristics in patients with PPROM and Ureaplasma species infection

OBJECTIVES

Preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) complicates about 5% of pregnancies. Ureaplasma species is the most common pathogen found in the amniotic fluid in pregnancieneonatal outcome. The aim of the following study was to evaluate the impact of colonization with the Ureaplasma spp. on pregnant women with PPROM, coin fection with different microorganisms, and antimicrobial treatment on neonatal outcome.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included 30 women with PPROM hospitalized in Division of Reproduction in s complicated by PPROM. It is speculated that it requires a coin fection to produce unfavorable Poznan's K. Marcinkowski University of Medical Sciences. Swabs from cenvical canal were obtained for the identifidation of bacterial and ureaplasma tic infections by culture and POR.

RESULTS

The presence of any infection during the pregnancy a fter PP ROM was con firmed in 22 patients (Ureaplasma spp. in 12 patients, coin fection in 10 women). The cure rate for Ureaplasma species and other infections was 17% (2/12 patients) and 23% (5/22 patients), respectively There was no correlation between Ureaplasma species infection, coin fection, and cure status with the infection in the newborn. The PPROM to delivery duration also did not affect the newborn infection status. A negative relationship with leukocyte level was detected in patient with newborn infection.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of colonization with Ureaplasma species is not attributable to neonatal short-term morbidity The evaluation of maternal biochemical and microbiological data, regardless of the duration of the pregnancy after PPROM or the cure status, does not add any insight into the newborn infection status.

Can ficolin-2 (L-ficolin) insufficiency be established by a single serum protein measurement?

Serum ficolin-2 was measured in multiple (2-27) samples from 68 paediatric sepsis patients. Fourteen individuals (21%) gave values that included a change in status from 'normal' to 'insufficient' or vice versa. Therefore, if possible, ficolin-2 concentration should be determined in samples obtained when a disease is inactive.

Cardiac arrest survivors treated with or without mild therapeutic hypothermia: performance status and quality of life assessment

BACKGROUND

Hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy is the main determinant of clinical outcome after cardiac arrest. The study was designed to determine long-term neurological and psychological status in cardiac arrest survivors, as well as to compare neuropsychological outcomes between patients treated with mild therapeutic hypothermia (MTH) and patients who did not undergo hypothermia treatment.

METHODS

The article describes a single-center, retrospective, observational study on 28 post-cardiac arrest adult patients treated in the cardiac intensive care unit who qualified for MTH vs. 37 control group patients, hospitalized at the same center following cardiac arrest in the preceding years and fulfilling criteria for induced hypothermia, but who were not treated due to unavailability of the method at that time. Disability Rating Scale (DRS), Barthel Index and RAND-36 were used to assess performance status and quality of life in both study groups after hospital discharge.

RESULTS

There were no statistically significant differences in physical functioning found between groups either at the end of hospital treatment or at long-term follow-up (DRS: p = 0.11; Barthel Index: p = 0.83). In long-term follow-up, MTH patients showed higher vitality (p = 0.02) and reported fewer complaints on role limitations due to emotional problems (p = 0.04) compared to the control group. No significant differences were shown between study groups in terms of physical capacity and independent functioning.

CONCLUSION

To conclude, in long-term follow-up, MTH patients showed higher vitality and reported fewer complaints on role limitations due to emotional problems compared to the control group. This suggest that MTH helps to preserve global brain function in cardiac arrest survivors. However, the results can be biased by a small sample size and variable observation periods.

Soybean meal enriched with microelements by biosorption--a new biological feed supplement for laying hens. Part I. Performance and egg traits

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of soybean meal enriched with Cu(II), Zn(II), Fe(II) and Cr(III) by biosorption on egg traits (egg weight, eggshell strength, eggshell thickness, yolk colour, albumen height) and performance of laying hens. Also, the effect of increased microelement doses in biological form on egg quality parameters and hens performance was investigated. A consumer questionnaire was undertaken to evaluate the organoleptic parameters of the eggs. Generally, our study showed that in the groups fed with the new biological supplement, egg quality parameters improved, including eggshell strength, eggshell thickness, albumen height and yolk colour. The biological form of microelements also improved the feed conversion rate, especially in the group fed with a biological form of Cr(III). Moreover, the new supplement improved organoleptic parameters of the eggs, in comparison to the inorganic form of microelements as well as to chelate. Enriched soybean meal could constitute an alternative for currently used feed additives with microelements.

Postnatal exposure to flutamide affects CDH1 and CTNNB1 gene expression in adult pig epididymis and prostate and alters metabolism of testosterone

In both epididymis and prostate the dynamic cross-talk between the cells is hormonally regulated and, in part, through direct cell-to-cell interactions. Functionality of the male reproductive organs may be affected by exposure to specific chemicals, so-called 'reprotoxicants'. In this study we tested whether early postnatal and prepubertal exposure to anti-androgen flutamide altered the expression of adherens junction genes encoding E-cadherin (CDH1) and β-catenin (CTNNB1) in adult pig epididymis and prostate. In addition, the expression of mRNAs and proteins for 5α-reductase (ST5AR2) and aromatase (CYP19A1) were examined to show whether flutamide alters metabolism of testosterone. Thus, flutamide was injected into male piglets between Days 2 and 10 and between Days 90 and 98 postnatally (PD2 and PD90; 50 mg/kg bw), tissues that were obtained on postnatal Day 270. To assess the expression of the genes and proteins, real-time RT-PCR and Western blot were performed respectively. Moreover, adherens junction proteins were localized by immunohistochemistry. In response to flutamide, CDH1 and CTNNB1 expressions were down-regulated along the epididymis, mostly in PD2 group (p < 0.001, p < 0.01). In the prostate, CDH1 mRNA and protein expressions were significantly down-regulated (p < 0.01), whereas CTNNB1 mRNA was slightly up-regulated in both flutamide-treated groups. CTNNB1 protein level was markedly elevated in both PD2 (p < 0.001) and PD90 (p < 0.01) groups. In the epididymis, the expression of ST5AR2 and CYP19A1 was down- and up-regulated, respectively (p < 0.05), whereas in the prostate evident decrease in CYP19A1 expression (p < 0.001, p < 0.01, p < 0.05) was demonstrated. In both tissues, membranous immunolocalization of CTNNB1 suggests its involvement in cell-cell adhesion. Overall, flutamide administration resulted in suppression of androgen action in the epididymis and prostate leading to deregulation of CDH1 and CTNNB1 gene expressions which is probably caused by the alterations in the expression of ST5AR2 and CYP19A1 in both reproductive organs.

Comparison of cerebral tissue oxygenation values in full term and preterm newborns by the simultaneous use of two near-infrared spectroscopy devices: an absolute and a relative trending oximeter

The aim of this study is to compare a two-wavelength light emitting diode-based tissue oximeter (INVOS), which is designed to show trends in tissue oxygenation, with a four-wavelength laser-based oximeter (FORE-SIGHT), designed to deliver absolute values of tissue oxygenation. Simultaneous values of cerebral tissue oxygenation (StO2) are measured using both devices in 15 term and 15 preterm clinically stable newborns on the first and third day of life. Values are recorded simultaneously in two periods between which oximeter sensor positions are switched to the contralateral side. Agreement between StO2 values before and after the change of sensor position is analyzed. We find that mean cerebral StO2 values are similar between devices for term and preterm babies, but INVOS shows StO2 values spread over a wider range, with wider standard deviations than shown by the FORE-SIGHT. There is relatively good agreement with a bias up to 3.5% and limits of agreement up to 11.8%. Measurements from each side of the forehead show better repeatability for the FORE-SIGHT monitor. We conclude that performance of the two devices is probably acceptable for clinical purposes. Both performed sufficiently well, but the use of FORE-SIGHT may be associated with tighter range and better repeatability of data.

Biomass of Spirulina maxima enriched by biosorption process as a new feed supplement for swine

This paper deals with the new mineral feed additives with Cu produced in a biosorption process from a semi-technical scale. The natural biomass of edible microalga Spirulina sp. was enriched with Cu(II) and then used as a mineral supplement in feeding experiments on swine to assess its nutrition properties. A total of 24 piglets divided into two groups (control and experimental) were used to determine the bioavailability of a new generation of mineral feed additives based on Spirulina maxima. The control group was feed using traditional inorganic supplements of microelements, while the experimental group was fed with the feed containing the biomass of S. maxima enriched with Cu by biosorption. The apparent absorption was 30 % (P < 0.05) higher in the experimental group. No effect on the production results (average daily feed intake, average daily gain, feed conversion ratio) was detected. It was found that copper concentration in feces in the experimental group was 60 % (P < 0.05) lower than in the control group. The new preparation-a dietary supplement with microelements produced by biosorption based on biomass of microalgae S. maxima-is a promising alternative to currently used inorganic salts as the source of nutritionally important microelements.

Effect on supplementation of Spirulina maxima enriched with Cu on production performance, metabolical and physiological parameters in fattening pigs

In this paper, the effect of addition of the biomass of Spirulina maxima enriched with copper (Sm-Cu) to the animal feed is discussed. The biomass was cultivated in the photobioreactor with the capacity of 10 m3. After the biosorption process, the enriched biomass was investigated as the source of valuable nutrients. The feeding experiment was conducted for 87 days. The study was performed in individual rearing pens, with controlled microclimate, feed and water were available semi-ad libitum. Piglets (24) were divided into two groups (control and experimental). The experimental group was fed with addition of the biomass of Sm-Cu instead of inorganic salts. There were no statistically significant differences between the average daily and periodic weight gain, daily and periodic feed collection, as well as feed conversion ratio. There were no statistically significant differences between the amount of N excreted in faeces and urine, when considering the retention of N, both in relation to the consumed N, and relative N digested which was at a similar level. In the experimental group in comparison to the control group, the lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol by 17.05 % (P < 0.05) and total cholesterol by 9.43 % (P < 0.05) were observed. Additionally, the increase of parameter a* of 13 % (P < 0.05) and the reduction of the natural leakage by 34 % (P < 0.05) were found.

Effect of iodine-enriched yeast supplementation of diet on performance of laying hens, egg traits, and egg iodine content

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of iodine yeast (I-yeast) supplementation on the performance, egg traits, and iodine content of eggs of laying hens. The experiment was conducted as a completely randomized design. A total of 60 laying hens (Hy-Line Brown), 25 wk of age, was divided into 3 groups (4 replicates), and a feeding experiment was conducted for 12 wk. The concentrations and forms of iodine added to the basal diet were as follows: control group, 1 mg of iodine/kg of feed, Ca(IO(3))(2)•H(2)O; experimental groups E1 and E2, 1 and 2 mg of iodine per kilogram of feed, I-yeast, respectively. The iodine yeast did not significantly affect BW gain. Lower level of hen day egg production for groups E1 and E2 was not confirmed statistically; however, it was probably the consequence of low replication. Feed intake was the lowest in the E1 group and feed conversion rate was the highest in the E2 group. Furthermore, the egg and albumen weight was the highest in the group supplemented with 2 mg/kg of iodine from I-yeast (P < 0.05). The concentration of iodine in the egg yolk from groups E1 and E2 was respectively about 80 and 90% higher, compared with the control group. Eggshells from the group fed with 2 mg/kg of I-yeast contained almost 3 times more iodine than eggshells from the control group. The results suggest that iodine yeast supplementation in the diet of laying hens is an effective method for increasing iodine concentration in eggs and thus could contribute to elimination of iodine deficiency disorders in humans consuming iodine-enriched eggs.

[Perinatal transmission of Chlamydia trachomatis and its complication in preterm infants]

INTRODUCTION

Chlamydia trachomatis is the most common agent of sexually transmitted infections. In pregnant women it can cause premature delivery. In newborns the clinical manifestation are pneumonia and conjunctivitis.

AIM

The aim of the study was to estimate the perinatal transmission of Chlamydia trachomatis and the prevalence of neonatal complications.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included 82 mothers with delivery < 34 weeks of gestation and 100 of their newborns. All patients were hospitalized at the Poznan University of Medical Sciences Gynecology and Obstetrics Hospital between 2004 and 2009. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method in AMPLICOR CT/NG test was used for the detection of Chlamydia trachomatis infection.

RESULTS

Chlamydia trachomatis was identified in 8 pregnant women among 82 tested patients (10%) and in 6 neonates. Perinatal transmission was 75%. All infected infants developed respiratory disorders. Five of them needed respiratory support such as nCPAP or mechanical ventilation. Three newborns presented apneic spells.

CONCLUSIONS

Asymptomatic chlamydial infection is frequently detected in women with preterm delivery. There is high risk of perinatal transmission of the infection from the mother to the newborn, which leads to perinatal complications such as neonatal pneumonia which in preterm infants can develop just after the delivery and give rise to life-threatening respiratory disorders.

Effect of macroalgae enriched with microelements on egg quality parameters and mineral content of eggs, eggshell, blood, feathers and droppings

This study presents results obtained from feeding experiment on laying hens, which were fed with the diet supplemented with two marine macroalgae: Enteromorpha prolifera and Cladophora sp., enriched with microelements [Cu(II), Zn(II), Co(II), Mn(II), Cr(III)]. The applicability of the preparation was tested on five experimental groups of laying hens and one control group. In the control group, microelements were supplemented in the inorganic form, whereas in experimental groups, Cu, Zn, Co, Mn and Cr were replaced by macroalgae enriched with a given microelement ion. During feeding experiment, weight of laying hens, weight of eggs, eggshell thickness and mineral content of blood, feathers, droppings, eggs content (separately yolk and egg white) and eggshell were measured. Also egg number was counted and microclimate (temperature and relative humidity) was monitored. Supplementing bio-metallic feed additives to the diet of laying hens resulted in higher microelement transfer to eggs and enhanced the colour of yolk. It was also found that the presence of Enteromorpha prolifera and Cladophora sp. in laying hens diet influenced advantageously eggs weight, eggshell thickness as well as body weight of hens. On the basis of these results, it could be concluded that Enteromorpha prolifera and Cladophora sp. enriched with microelement ions could be potentially used as mineral feed additives in laying hens feeding.

Biosorption and bioaccumulation of microelements by Riccia fluitans in single and multi-metal system

In the present study, biosorption and bioaccumulation characteristics of Riccia fluitans to be use as biological mineral feed supplement, was investigated. Preliminary studies showed that R. fluitans was rich in protein (27-31%) and possessed high cation exchange capacity (14.5 mequiv g(-1)) and therefore it has the potential to find an application as biological carrier of microelements that are supplied to feed of animals, the diet of which is deficient in these components. In the present study, various processes of enrichment with microelements of crystalwort were investigated, including biosorption, bioaccumulation by non-growing and growing cells in single-(Cr(III) ions) and multi-metal system (Cr(III), Cu(II), Mn(II), Zn(II) ions). The effect of process parameters (temperature and pH) on metal ions binding efficiency was studied in single-metal system. It was found that at 20 degrees C and pH5 the biomass bound 106 mg g(-1) Cr(III) ions. The experimental results showed that the mostly advantageous process of metal ions binding was biosorption, the process that is also the mostly cost-effective.

The influence of living habits and family relationships on element concentrations in human hair

The paper discusses the content of elements in hair of subjects studied over several years. The study was performed on 5 subjects (N=28) that lived together or were family related. The elemental composition of hair of the studied subjects was compared with the average content of the population living in the same urban area (Wrocław city, south-west Poland), with the population of a non-industrialized area in Poland (Silesian Beskid), as well as with the population of north-east Sweden and Rio de Janeiro. When comparing the composition of hair from the studied subjects with the people living in the same city, it was found that the differences resulted mainly from different living habits (Na, Si, Co, Fe, Mn, Zn) and local exposure (Pb, Cd, Al). When comparing with the reference material for unexposed population, it was found that the studied subjects were exposed to Al. Time profile of element contents in hair of a given person showed that the level changed significantly (even several fold) with changes of living habits or environmental exposure. Also, it was found that there were similar tendencies in the accumulation of the majority of elements by people that lived together. The effect of living habits on the level of a given element was found to be stronger than the influence of either sex or family relationship. The paper also discusses inter-element interactions within the studied group. Statistically significant (p<0.05) correlations were found between elements that occur together: Ca-Mg, Fe-Mn, Na-K, Co-K, Au-Pt, Cd-Pb. In order to determine the influence of various elements on the content of another element, linear multiple regression was performed that revealed the following relationships: Ca=f(Mn, Sr), Na=f(K, Mn), K=f(V, Ti).

The effect of age, sex, smoking habit and hair color on the composition of hair

Hair samples (N=83) were collected between the years 1996 and 2003 from inhabitants of Wrocław, a city located in Lower Silesia, south-western Poland (urbanized and industrialized region). The concentrations of 33 elements: Ca, Mg, Na, K, Cu, Zn, P, Fe, Mn, Cr, Se, B, Co, Mo, Si, V, Ni, Be, Hg, Cd, Al, Pb, As, Ba, Au, Pt, Ag, Sr, Sn, Ti, W, Sb and Zr in hair were determined by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) techniques. The effect of age, sex, smoking habits and hair color on the elemental composition of hair was investigated. Also, the obtained results were compared with literature data. It was found that the composition of hair varied with age, sex, hair color and smoking habits. This concerned the majority of elements except Ti, Se, Mn, Ni, Hg, Cd, As, Co (in the case of effect of age), Al, Cd, Co (sex), Cd, K, Ag, Ca, Co, Be (smoking habit), P, Fe, Al, Mn and Cr (hair color). Therefore, reference values for the level of the remaining elements should be normalized according to age, sex, smoking habit and hair color. This would make hair analysis more reliable.

The results of newborn hearing screening by means of transient evoked otoacoustic emissions

OBJECTIVE

The incidence of sensorineural hearing loss is between 1 and 3 per 1000 in healthy neonates and 2-4 per 100 in high-risk children. Transient evoked otoacoustic emissions (TEOAEs) represent a method which can be applied to all newborns prior to hospital discharge, enabling early identification of hearing loss. The aim of the study was to evaluate the results of newborn hearing screening by means of TEOAEs.

METHODS

Between 01.10.2002 and 30.09.2003, 5601 newborns born in the University Hospital in Poznan, Poland were screened with ERO SCAN (MAICO). Healthy neonates were screened in the second or third day of life and children treated in pathology unit--when their general condition was stable. The risk factors of hearing loss were recorded in a questionnaire. Children who failed the screening test or had risk factors of hearing impairment were referred to the outpatient clinic for further evaluation.

RESULTS

Risk factors were identified in 739 newborns. The most often risk factors were: use of ototoxic drugs, low Apgar score and prematurity. Positive test result was obtained in 219 (3.91%) children unilaterally and in 137 (2.45%) bilaterally. In healthy children the prevalence of positive results was 3.56% and in high-risk infants 24.9%. The relative risk of positive test results was the highest in infants with positive family history (RR=7.5), congenital malformations (RR=6.7) and low Apgar score (RR=5). Of the group of 912 children, who were referred to the specialist, only 218 turned up to be assessed during the observation period and had the additional otoacoustic emission test performed. There was not any significant difference in the percentage of children with and without risk factors who turned up for the second test and in whom the result was positive (39.7% versus 40.3%). In 41.9% children with risk factors whose screening test was negative, the second exam gave positive result.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of positive results in newborn hearing screening is much higher than the prevalence of hearing loss in general population and these results need verification by more precise methods. However, TEOAEs enable to select children who should be referred for audiological evaluation.

Inter-element interactions in human hair

The concentrations of 33 elements: Ca, Mg, Na, U, Cu, Zn, P, Fe, Mn, Cr, Se, B, Co, Mo, Si, V, Ni, Be, Hg, Cd, Al, Pb, As, Ba, Au, Pt, Ag, Sr, Sn, Ti, W, Sb and Zr in hair were determined by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES). Hair samples (n=83) were collected between 1996 and 2003 from inhabitants of city of Wrocław, located in Lower Silesia, south-west Poland (urbanized and industrialized region). Inter-element interactions were studied by evaluation of correlation coefficients between two elements, as well as by multiple regression analysis. The strongest relations found between the elements in the hair were as follows: Mg and Ca, Mn and Ca, Sr and Ca, Sr and Mg, U and Na, Ni and Zn, Mn and Sr, Cd and Ni, Sb and Pt. We obtained also the following essential linear multiple dependences (p<0.05): Al=f(U, P, Mn), As=f(Zn, Fe) (Zn is negatively correlated, β<0), Cu=f(V), Fe=f(Mn, As), Mg=f(Ca), Ca=f(Mg, Ba), Ni=f(Zn, Cd), Sb=f(Pt, Sn, W) and Ti=f(Fe, Co). These relations can be useful in the explanation of relationships among the elements in man.

Bioavailability of heavy metals from polluted soils to plants

The aim of this work was to estimate, on the basis of soil extraction procedures, whether a given soil is suitable for cultivation of plants used as food or feed. The paper discusses the transfer of metal ions (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Zn) from contaminated soils to plants in terms of transfer factors (TF). The knowledge of transfer factors for a given element should enable prediction, before plants are sowed, whether a given soil is suitable for the cultivation of plants for consumption purposes. TF can only be evaluated when a linear relationship is observed between soil and plant composition for a given element. Such a relationship is rarely observed between the total soil content of a given metal and that of the plant. For this reason, it was necessary to develop an extraction procedure that would represent the content of metal available to plants during growing season. Several extracting agents were tested. The extracting agent that fulfilled these criteria was 2% (w/v) ammonium citrate. Statistically significant correlation coefficients were determined between the citrate-soluble fraction of soil and content in plant in the case of all the elements studied, except Ni. If a statistically significant correlation exists, it is then possible to evaluate the soil-plant transfer factor for a given metal in plants.

[Perinatal complications in newborns of mothers with gestational diabetes]

OBJECTIVE

To determine how metabolic monitoring of women with gestational diabetes influences the morbidity of newborns.

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

PATIENTS

352 newborns of mothers with gestational diabetes. 295 mothers suffered from diabetes class G1 (G1DM) and 57 from diabetes class G2 (G2DM).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Glycated haemoglobin levels measured at the moment of the diagnosis of gestational diabetes and shortly before delivery were higher in women with diabetes type G2, but the difference was statistically significant only at the first measurement (G1 6.1+/-1,5% vs. G2 6.7+/- 1.6%, p<0.01). Mean gestational age at the time of delivery in the whole group was 38 +/- 2 hbd and there was not any difference between newborns of mothers with G1DM and G2DM. Mean birth weight in newborns of G1DM mothers was 3390 +/- 620 g and in newborns ofG2DM mothers it was 3330 +/- 720 g (NS).

RESULTS

31 (8.8%) infants were large for gestational age (LGA) and 20 (5.7%) infants were small for gestational age (SGA). There was not any difference between newborns of mothers with diabetes class G1 and G2 in the incidence of LGA and SGA. Neither there was any difference between these two groups in the incidence of metabolic disorders (hypoglycemia, hypocalcaemia. hypomagnesaemia. hyperbilirubinemia) and other pathologic conditions (respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), polycythemia, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and perinatal infections). The incidence of congenital malformations was similar in both groups. LGA newborns were statistically more often newborns of mothers with HbA1c level exceeding the normal value (HbA1c>6.3%). This correlation was observed both in the first measurement of HbA l c and the measurement performed shortly before delivery. In LGA newborns we observed hypoglycemia, polycythemia and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy more often. Perinatal infections appeared statistically more often in the SGA newborns. 31.25% infants from the study group were born before the end of the 37th week of gestation. These newborns more often suffered from RDS, hypoglycemia, hyperbilirubinemia and perinatal infections.

CONCLUSION

There was not any significant difference in neonatal outcome in newborns of mothers with gestational diabetes class G1 and G2. This might have resulted from the fact that there was neither any statistically significant difference between these two groups in HbA1c level measured shortly before delivery. The incidence of metabolic disorders in newborns was correlated with LGA, SGA and prematurity, but there was not any difference in the occurrence of metabolic disorders between newborns of mothers with G1DM and G2DM.