Menstrual blood-derived mesenchymal stromal cells: impact of preconditioning on the cargo of extracellular vesicles as potential therapeutics

BACKGROUND

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have been shown to exert their therapeutic effects through the secretion of broad spectrum of paracrine factors, including extracellular vesicles (EVs). Accordingly, EVs are being pursued as a promising alternative to cell-based therapies. Menstrual blood-derived stromal cells (MenSCs) are a type of MSC that, due to their immunomodulatory and regenerative properties, have emerged as an innovative source. Additionally, new strategies of cell priming may potentially alter the concentration and cargo of released EVs, leading to modification of their biological properties. In this study, we aimed to characterize the EVs released by MenSCs and compare their therapeutic potential under three different preconditioning conditions (proinflammatory stimuli, physioxia, and acute hypoxia).

METHODS

MenSCs were isolated from five healthy women. Following culturing to 80% confluence, MenSCs were exposed to different priming conditions: basal (21% O₂), proinflammatory stimuli (IFNγ and TNFα, 21% O₂), physioxia (1-2% O₂), and acute hypoxia (< 1% O₂) for 48-72 h. Conditioned media from MenSCs was collected after 48 h and EVs were isolated by a combination of ultra-filtration and differential centrifugation. An extensive characterization ranging from nano-flow cytometry (nFC) to quantitative high-throughput shotgun proteomics was performed. Bioinformatics analyses were used to derive hypotheses on their biological properties.

RESULTS

No differences in the morphology, size, or number of EVs released were detected between priming conditions. The proteome analysis associated with basal MenSC-EVs prominently revealed their immunomodulatory and regenerative capabilities. Furthermore, quantitative proteomic analysis of differentially produced MenSC-EVs provided sufficient evidence for the utility of the differential preconditioning in purpose-tailoring EVs for their therapeutic application: proinflammatory priming enhanced the anti-inflammatory, regenerative and immunomodulatory capacity in the innate response of EVs, physioxia priming also improves tissue regeneration, angiogenesis and their immunomodulatory capacity targeting on the adaptive response, while acute hypoxia priming, increased hemostasis and apoptotic processes regulation in MenSC-EVs, also by stimulating immunomodulation mainly through the adaptive response.

CONCLUSIONS

Priming of MenSCs under proinflammatory and hypoxic conditions affected the cargo proteome of EVs released, resulting in different therapeutic potential, and thus warrants experimental exploration with the aim to generate better-defined MSC-derived bioproducts.

Bactericidal Activity of Graphene Oxide Tests for Selected Microorganisms

The aim of this study was to determine the bactericidal potential of graphene oxide (GO) in contact with four species of bacteria: E. coli, S. mutans, S. aureus and E. faecalis. Bacterial cell suspensions of each species were incubated in a medium containing GO, with incubation times of 5, 10, 30 and 60 min, at final concentrations of 50, 100, 200, 300 and 500 μg/mL. The cytotoxicity of GO was evaluated using live/dead staining. The results were recorded using a BD Accuri C6 flow cytofluorimeter. Obtained data were analyzed using BD CSampler software. A significant bacteria viability reduction was noted in all GO-containing samples. The antibacterial properties of GO were strongly influenced by GO concentration and incubation time. The highest bactericidal activity was observed at concentrations of 300 and 500 μg/mL for all incubation times (5, 10, 30 and 60 min). The highest antimicrobial potential was observed for E. coli: after 60 min, the mortality rate was 94% at 300 µg/mL GO and 96% at 500 µg/mL GO; the lowest was found for S. aureus-49% (300 µg/mL) and 55% (500 µg/mL).

Removing Fractured Endodontic Files with a Tube Technique-The Strength of the Glued Joint: Tube-Endodontic File Setup

One recommended technique for removing broken root canal instruments is to glue the fragment into a cannula adapted to it (i.e., the tube technique). The aim of the study was to determine the influence of the adhesive kind and length of the joint on the breaking force. During the investigation, 120 files (60 H-files and 60 K-files) and 120 injection needles were used. Fragments of broken files were glued into the cannula using one of three materials: cyanoacrylate adhesive, composite prosthetic cement, or glass ionomer cement. The lengths of the glued joints were 2 and 4 mm. After the polymerization of adhesives, a tensile test was carried out to find a breaking force. The results were statistically analyzed (p < 0.05). For 4 mm lengths of glued joints, the breaking force was higher than for 2 mm for both file types (K and H). In the case of K-type files, the breaking force was higher for cyanoacrylate and composite adhesives than glass ionomer cement. For H-type files, no significant difference in joint strength was found between binders at 4 mm, while at 2 mm, a much better connection was obtained for cyanoacrylate glue than prosthetic cements.

Barrier Diamond-like Carbon Coatings on Polydimethylsiloxane Substrate

The plasma modification of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) substrates is one way to change their surface geometry, which enables the formation of wrinkles. However, these changes are very often accompanied by the process of restoring the hydrophobic properties of the modified material. In this work, the RF PACVD device (radio frequency plasma-assisted chemical vapor deposition) was used, with which the plasma treatment of PDMS substrates was carried out in argon, nitrogen, oxygen, and methane atmospheres at variable negative biases ranging from 100 V to 500 V. The obtained results show the stability of contact angles for deionized water only in the case of surfaces modified by diamond-like carbon (DLC) coatings. The influence of the applied production conditions on the thickness (between 10 and 30 nm) and chemical structure (ID/IG between 0.41 and 0.8) of DLC coatings is discussed. In the case of plasma treatments with other gases introduced into the working chamber, the phenomenon of changing from hydrophilic to hydrophobic properties after the modification processes was observed. The presented results confirm the barrier nature of the DLC coatings produced on the PDMS substrate.

Root and canal morphology of the maxillary second premolars as indicated by cone beam computed tomography

The aim was to evaluate the morphology of maxillary second premolars. The root canal configurations were classified according to Vertucci and a new system by Ahmed et al. based on CBCT images. In addition, the number of roots and the level where they bifurcated were identified, and morphological measurements were performed based on anatomical landmarks. Single-rooted forms were most common. Bifurcation occurred most often in the middle part of the root. The most common canal configuration was type I according to Vertucci and code ¹ SP¹ according to the new classification. The measurements showing the results were as follows (mm): palatal cusp/buccal cusp/the lowest point of the occlusal surface to pulp chamber ceiling 6.18/6.54/4.77; the ceiling of the pulp chamber was found at the CEJ in 92.28% of the specimens. The maxillary second premolars tended to be single-rooted and with one root canal.

Root form and canal anatomy of maxillary first premolars: a cone-beam computed tomography study

The aim of this study was to evaluate the root and canal morphology of permanent maxillary first premolars in a Polish population using cone-beam computed tomography scanning (CBCT) and to compare the classifications by Vertucci and Ahmed et al. Images of 350 maxillary first premolars were analyzed. Scans were obtained from 226 patients: 131 women and 95 men. The root canal configurations were classified according to Vertucci and a new system by Ahmed et al. In addition, the number of roots and the level where roots bifurcated were identified. The results were submitted to statistical analysis. Most maxillary first premolars had two roots (69.1%). Most bifurcations were located in the coronal part of the root (44.2%) and the least in the apical part (15.3%). Bifurcation in the coronal part of the root was observed more often in the teeth of men than women. In turn, bifurcation in the central or apical part was significantly more common in women than in men. The most common canal configuration of the maxillary first premolars was type IV (78.2%) according to Vertucci and ²FPB¹P¹ (65.4%) according to the new classification. Among the remaining cases, almost all types of canals described by Vertucci, and many combinations of codes given in the new classification were demonstrated. The maxillary first premolars displayed a wide range of root and canal anatomical variations. The new system for classifying canal morphology based on Ahmed et al. is more accurate than the Vertucci classification.

Phase Structure and Properties of Ternary Polylactide/Poly(methyl methacrylate)/Polysilsesquioxane Blends

Ternary blends of polylactide (PLA, 90 wt.%) and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA, 10 wt.%) with functionalized polysilsesquioxanes (LPSQ-R) were obtained by solution blending. R groups in LPSQ containing hydroxyethyl (LPSQ-OH), methylglycolic (LPSQ-COOMe) and pentafluorophenyl (LPSQ-F5) moieties of different chemical properties were designed to modify PLA blends with PMMA. The effect of the type of LPSQ-R and their content, 1-3 wt.%, on the structure of the blends was studied with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) combined with energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA) and Raman spectroscopy. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and tensile tests also showed various effects of LPSQ-R on the thermal and mechanical properties of the blends. Depth-sensing indentation was used to resolve spatially the micro- and nano-scale mechanical properties (hardness and elastic behaviour) of the blends. The results showed clearly that LPSQ-R modulate the structure and properties of the blends.

Optimization of Glutathione Adhesion Process to Modified Graphene Surfaces

The presented work shows the results of the functionalization of the graphene surface obtained by the growth on the liquid bimetallic matrices method. We used glutathione (GSH) as a peptide model, which allowed us to optimize the procedure to obtain high process efficiency. To establish the amount of GSH attached to the graphene surface, the Folina-Ciocalteu method was used, which allows the assessment of the concentration of colored reaction products with peptide bonds without the disadvantages of most methods based on direct colored reaction of peptide bonds. Samples surface morphology, quality of graphene and chemical structure in the subsequent stages of surface modification were tested-for this purpose Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were used.

Laser Patterning a Graphene Layer on a Ceramic Substrate for Sensor Applications

This paper describes a method for patterning the graphene layer and gold electrodes on a ceramic substrate using a Nd:YAG nanosecond fiber laser. The technique enables the processing of both layers and trimming of the sensor parameters. The main aim was to develop a technique for the effective and efficient shaping of both the sensory layer and the metallic electrodes. The laser shaping method is characterized by high speed and very good shape mapping, regardless of the complexity of the processing. Importantly, the technique enables the simultaneous shaping of both the graphene layer and Au electrodes in a direct process that does not require a complex and expensive masking process, and without damaging the ceramic substrate. Our results confirmed the effectiveness of the developed laser technology for shaping a graphene layer and Au electrodes. The ceramic substrate can be used in the construction of various types of sensors operating in a wide temperature range, especially the cryogenic range.

Microstructures Manufactured in Diamond by Use of Laser Micromachining

Different microstructures were created on the surface of a polycrystalline diamond plate (obtained by microwave plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition—MW PECVD process) by use of a nanosecond pulsed DPSS (diode pumped solid state) laser with a 355 nm wavelength and a galvanometer scanning system. Different average powers (5 to 11 W), scanning speeds (50 to 400 mm/s) and scan line spacings (“hatch spacing”) (5 to 20 µm) were applied. The microstructures were then examined using scanning electron microscopy, confocal microscopy and Raman spectroscopy techniques. Microstructures exhibiting excellent geometry were obtained. The precise geometries of the microstructures, exhibiting good perpendicularity, deep channels and smooth surfaces show that the laser microprocessing can be applied in manufacturing diamond microfluidic devices. Raman spectra show small differences depending on the process parameters used. In some cases, the diamond band (at 1332 cm⁻¹) after laser modification of material is only slightly wider and shifted, but with no additional peaks, indicating that the diamond is almost not changed after laser interaction. Some parameters did show that the modification of material had occurred and additional peaks in Raman spectra (typical for low-quality chemical vapor deposition CVD diamond) appeared, indicating the growing disorder of material or manufacturing of the new carbon phase.

Evaluation of the Erosive Potential of Selected Isotonic Drinks: In Vitro Studies

BACKGROUND

Isotonic drinks are an important component of the diet of athletes. Sports drinks cause the body to maintain proper hydration and supplement minerals which are lost in sweat during excessive exercising. Aside from the benefits of isotonic drinks, it is important to be aware of the harmful effects of citric acid within the products, which could cause enamel erosion.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to evaluate the erosive potential of sports drinks using confocal scanning laser microscopy (CLSM).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The studies measured the change of surface roughness of the dental enamel after etching using Isostar, Powerade and Gatorade drinks, and Fortuna orange juice. Measurements were repeated after 1, 2 and 3 h of exposure to the selected liquid. The evaluation of calcium compound contents was carried out using the complexonometric method.

RESULTS

The surface roughness measurements of dental enamel showed that the lowest values of the parameters Ra and Rz were obtained for Isostar and orange juice. The research of the calcium content in the selected beverages showed the highest value in Isostar (320.0 mg/L) and the lowest in Powerade (40.0 mg/L) and Gatorade (21.0 mg/L).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study confirms that Isostar is the safest sports drink, among the analyzed beverages, for athletes, because it causes the least erosive changes in dental enamel. It is recommended to supplement beverages to reduce their potential for erosion using calcium compounds.

Interaction of parylene C with biological objects

The aim of the present work was to examine the interactions of parylene C with such selected biological objects as: blood plasma proteins, platelets, endothelial cells, and bacterial biofilm produced by E. coli cells. The results obtained strongly support the thesis that parylene C is a material worth considering for biomedical use. Parylene C coating on polished medical steel significantly reduces platelet adhesion to this surface. On the other hand, in the case of the surface of machined medical steel coated with parylene C, the number of adhered platelets is significantly higher. This also means that surface texture of substrate material is very well reproduced by parylene C coating and is an important factor facilitating the platelet adhesion. Adsorption of plasma proteins at parylene C surface is very effective, and this finding confirms a notion that cell interaction with surfaces is mediated by the adsorbed proteins. In the light of the above, a high susceptibility of parylene C surface to bacterial colonization is easy to explain. The results showing reduced proliferation and changes in endothelial cell gene expression should also be seriously analysed when parylene C is considered for the use in contact with blood vessels.

Frequency of three BRCA1 gene founder mutations in breast/ovarian cancer families from the Pomerania-Kujawy region of Poland

A group of 63 families from the Pomerania-Kujawy region were analyzed for three BRCA1 gene Polish founder mutations, 5382insC, 300T>G, and 4153delA, because of breast (BrCa) and/or ovarian cancer (OvCa) history. The analysis was carried out by multiplex polymerase chain reaction method. BRCA1 mutation was revealed in nine (14%) families: in three (33%) of hereditary BrCa and OvCa families, in three (8%) of hereditary BrCa families, and in three (21%) of hereditary OvCa families. According to risk criteria, it was revealed in 45% of high-risk families with more than three cancers, 13% of moderate-risk families with two cancers, and 8% of families with sporadic OvCa. In six families, the mutation was found in a proband with BrCa or OvCa and in three families, the mutation was found in a healthy proband, first-degree relative of a patient deceased of BrCa or OvCa. 5382insC frameshift mutation accounted for 67% and 300T>G missense mutation for 33% of all identified familial mutations. 4153delA frameshift mutation was not found in analyzed sample of families. 5382insC mutation was found in 9% and 300T>G in 5% of all investigated families, and in 27 and 18%, respectively, of high-risk families. This underlines the importance of applying strict inclusion criteria to analyze mutation frequency in hereditary BrCa/OvCa families.

Assessment and prevalence of depression in women 45-55 years of age visiting gynecological clinics in Poland: screening for depression among midlife gynecologic patients

The aims of the Polish survey were to assess efficacy of screening for depression in gynecological practice and to estimate prevalence of depressive disorders in midlife women visiting gynecologists. The study included 2262 female outpatients aged 45-55, who were screened by 120 gynecologists throughout Poland. Patients completed the Beck's Depression Inventory (BDI) and were assessed by gynecologists to verify the presence of symptoms of a current Depressive Episode according to ICD-10 diagnostic criteria. Patients who obtained a score of 12 points or more on the BDI were referred for psychiatric evaluation, including the modified version of Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI). The study showed that gynecologists in Poland are able to perform screenings for depression effectively in outpatient settings. Results also suggested that about 19% of women aged 45 to 55 years visiting gynecologists may suffer from depressive disorders.

Polish consensus: procedure in case of estrogen deficiency in women after breast cancer therapy

Women surviving breast cancer in the postmenopausal period suffer from hormonal alternations with adverse effect on mental status and functioning of a number of organs and systems. Two thirds of these women had menopause before the diagnosis of breast cancer. In the remaining one-third ovarian failure is natural or induced by chemotherapy. Doctors cautiously approach the use of estrogen therapy in this group of patients. Their fears are not unsupported bearing in mind known epidemiological data exist linking breast cancer with the use of hormonal therapy. The purpose of this review is to evaluate current data on hormonal use and breast cancer risk.

[Application of IVF in women with endometriosis]

Application of IVF at women with endometriosis after pharmacological and surgical therapy hold out hopes to possession of child. Endometriosis occurs three times more often in the patients with primary sterility than in patients with secondary sterility. The presence of a small endometriosis does not reduce the success of the IVF therapy. The women with endometriosis who undergo IVF treatment have similar prospect in compensate with women with tubal sterility. IVF improve fertility in women with mild or minimal endometriosis. But at women after IVF the presence of endometriomas is associated with increased rates of early pregnancy losses. Women with endometriosis marking often antinuclear antibodies and antiphospholipid antibodies than women without endometriosis. To evaluate the 15% of infertile women have endometriosis.

[Evaluation of incidence of Chlamydia trachomatis infections among the group of infertile women diagnosed by laparoscopy, and based on properties of Chlamydia trachomatis in the cervical canal, peritoneal fluid and ovarian cyst puncture]

The number of 75 patients who underwent diagnostic et operative laparoscopy was analysed. The percentage of infection cases caused by Chlamydia Trachomatis was 9.33% investigations proved correlation between fallopian tube factor and infection. It seems that pelvic infection not always undergoes with infection of uterine cervix.

[Concentrations of MMP-1, TIMP-1, MMP-1/TIMP-1 and I CTP complexes in follicular fluid as related to fertilization rate in women treated with in-vitro fertilization]

OBJECTIVES

Metalloproteinases and their inhibitors appear to control connective tissue remodelling during follicular rupture. The aim of the study was to establish if oocytes fertilisation rate after ovulation induction depends on the concentrations of MMP-1, its inhibitor TIMP-1, MMP-1/TIMP-1 complex and I CTP in follicular fluid (FF).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

FF were collected from 37 infertile patients undergoing ovulation induction using either short or long protocol. FF was obtained 36 hours after administration of hCG (Pregnyl). The level of MMP-1, TIMP-1, MMP-1/TIMP-1 complex were measured using ELISA kits and I CTP, E2, FSH, LH, using RIA assay kits.

RESULTS

Statistically significant (p < 0.05) difference was found in TIMP-1, E2, and FSH concentration, being higher in the group with more than 75% fertilisation rate: TIMP-1 728.8 + 100.1 ng/ml vs 666.3 + 94.5 ng/ml; E2 477.3 +/- 160.0 ng/ml vs 368.0 +/- 190.0 ng/ml and FSH 7.27 +/- 1.45 mIU/ml vs 6.24 +/- 1.6 mIU/ml.

CONCLUSIONS

Statistically significant increase in TIMP-1 concentration observed among patients with fertilisation rate above 75% indicates an important role of this substance in ovulation process.

Blood selenium and glutathione peroxidases in miscarriage

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the selenium glutathione and glutathione peroxidase (glutathione-Px) levels in blood in women who experience miscarriage.

DESIGN

An observational study.

PARTICIPANTS

Forty women with miscarriage occurring in the first and second trimesters.

METHODS

Concentrations were measured in whole blood and plasma. Glutathione was measured in red cells and glutathione-Px activity was measured in the red cells and plasma. The results were compared with 36 women in the same period of viable pregnancy and 28 age-matched, healthy, non-pregnant controls.

RESULTS

The selenium concentrations in whole blood and plasma of women following abortion were the same as in viable pregnancy, but were significantly lower compared with controls. The glutathione levels were significantly higher in women with miscarriage compared with viable pregnancies and with non-pregnant women. Red cell and plasma glutathione-Px activities of women who had had a miscarriage were significantly lower than in both normal pregnancies and the control group.

CONCLUSION

The decreased activities of the antioxidant enzymes, red cell and plasma glutathione-Px, may play an important role in the aetrology of spontaneous abortion.

[Multiple pregnancy as a cause of premature delivery]

Authors analysed management, complications and outcome of 13 multifetal pregnancies (11 triplet and 2 quadruplet), their duration, the way of delivery, indications for cesarean section and perinatal mortality rate. A majority of the multifetal pregnancies were diagnosed before the end of 20 weeks gestation, and 69.2% of women had cervical cerclages. Tocolysis was used in 9 cases (69.2%). The mean gestational age at delivery was 32.8 weeks. Cesarean section was performed in nine cases (29 neonates). Of the 41 neonates there were 2 stillbirth (4.88%) and 3 neonatal death (7.31%). In 87.9% of cases, delivery occurred before the end of 37 weeks gestation. The most common maternal complications were toxemia (23.1%) and anemia (46.2%).

[The influence of delivery methods for twins on obstetric results]

The analysis covered 100 twin gestations over the years 1996-1998 in the material of Gynecology and Obstetrics Clinic in Bydgoszcz. The authors estimated the relations between the mode of delivery and presentations of the twins. Abnormal foetal presentation occurred in 68 pregnancies (68%), and was more often in the second twin (61.8%). The highest percentage of cesarean sections (29%) we have observed in the case of an abnormal presentation of the first twin. The condition of the twins in their first minute after the birth was estimated according to the birth weight, the gestational age, and the mode of surgical procedures performed. Better condition after the birth of the second twin with the birth weight above 1000 g comparing to the first twin was established in cesarean sections, not in other obstetrical procedures. There was no essential difference between the mortality rate of the first and the second twin. Early diagnosis of the twin pregnancy using USG helps us to choose a suitable management during pregnancy and an optimal mode of delivery.

[Evaluation of cGMP plasma concentration in women in normal pregnancy and labor]

Aim of our study was evaluation of cGMP plasma concentration in women in course normal pregnancy and labour. The investigations were performed in Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Medical Academy in Bydgoszcz. Following groups of patients were examined. 1. 12 non-pregnant women 2. 59 women with normal pregnancy 3. 31 women at term with spontaneous uterus contractions.

RESULTS

1. low concentrations cGMP in plasma in non-pregnant women in course of menstruation cycle 2, low concentration cGMP in the first half of pregnancy--with gradual increase from 25 to 33 gestation week and with rapid increase in last 7 weeks of pregnancy, 3.--significant higher cGMP concentration at term in relation to values observed in early pregnancy and to the period between 28 and 37 weeks of gestation 4. significant higher cGMP plasma concentration in women in labour in relation to cGMP concentrations at term without uterus contractions.

[Evaluation of using Levovist in the differential diagnosis of ovarian tumors]

The research on applying Levovist was carried out in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of Medical Academy in Bydgoszcz, Poland, in the years 1997-1998. Out of 118 hospitalised patients with preliminary diagnosis: tu. hypogastrii, tu. adnexorum, tu. ovarii, cystis ovari, due to the suspicious ultrasound result, and/or decreased parameters of arterial blood flow (PI < 1.0; RI < 0.6) and or presence of abdominal fluid, 32 women were included in the study. The changes in the Doppler image under the influence of Levovist and their correlation with histologic features were analysed. The time span between injection of Levovist and the enhancement of the Doppler image was not characteristic for any tumor. However, it was observed, that the mean return time i.e. from the enhancement of the Doppler signal to the initial pattern, was considerably longer in carcinomas than in other ovarian tumours. No signal enhancement was observed in benign lesions.

[The course of pregnancy and delivery among women with thrombocytopenia]

Between January 1987 and December 1997 in The Ludwik Rydygier Medical University in Bydgoszcz 10 pregnant woman with autoimmune or "gestational" thrombocytopenia and preeclampsia--associated thrombocytopenia were evaluated. All of the patients delivered naturally and one delivered by caesarean section for obstetric indications. Severe neonatal thrombocytopenia was observed in one of newborns.

[The evaluation of efficiency of PGE 1 (alprostadil) during intracavernous injection in the treatment of erectile dysfunctions]

We have investigated the influence of PGE1 (alprostandil--"Prostavasin"--Schwarz Pharma company) on the erection in the group of 34 men with erectile disfunction (28 with and 6 without diabetes mellitus) treated in period from 1996 to 1998. Other diseases were excluded in all patients. The concentrations of FSH, LH, T, PRL, T3 and T4 were in normal range. The applied dose of PGE 1 varied from 5 mg to 20 mg maximum three times a week. The effect of the treatment was estimated according to subjective symptoms. The effectiveness of the treatment varied from 50% to 67%. The most effective dose was the maximal one (20 mg). The minimal effective dose of alprostadil was 10 mg.

[Struma ovarii: rare ovarian neoplasm]

Authors of this research present 3 cases of struma ovarii diagnosed in postoperative histopathological examination in years 1994-1997. The first one was accidentally discovered during examination of a woman in menopausal period, the second was a case of 39-years old woman with hyperthyroidism and struma parenchymatoso-nodosa and the third was detected during examination of a young 21-years old woman with abdominal pain. In first two cases Doppler flowmetry revealed low RI and PI parameters (< 0.5 and < 0.7 respectively) in tumor structures.

[Evaluation of ovarian tumor vascularization by means of intravaginal ultrasonography with color Doppler]

53 cases of ovarian tumors were diagnosed and operated in the Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Medical Academy in Bydgoszcz in years 1996-1997. Retrospective analysis of 58 results of ultrasonographic examination with color-Doppler estimated flows and histopathological diagnoses in cases of ovarian tumor was performed. On the ground of sonographically estimated morphology, presence or absence of vascularization and pulsation and resistance indices (PI and RI respectively) an attempt to discriminate benign and malignant tumors was made. Values of RI > 0.6 and PI > 1.0 in absence of morphologically suspicious features in ultrasonographic examination correlated with benign forms of ovarian tumors in histological examination.

[Personal experience in rehabilitation of patients treated with Austin-Moore hip arthroplasty for femoral neck fracture]

Pre and post-operative rehabilitation protocol used in 76 patients with femoral neck fracture treated with Austin-Moore hip plasty is presented. The age of patients ranged from 68 to 91 years (mean 79 years). They were operated on average 5 days after admission (range 1-16 days). The authors emphasize role of rehabilitation leading to regaining of ambulating skills by the operated patient. It also decreases the number of pulmonary and psychoorganic complications, shortens hospital stay. Cardiac infarct and pulmonary vein embolism were causes of two fatalities in postoperative period. Mean hospital stay was 22 days.

[Relationship between erythropoietin activity in fetal blood and Liley's curve and bilirubin concentration in amniotic fluid in serologic conflict]

Authors analysed concentration of erythropoietin (EPO) in fetal blood from pregnancies complicated by serologic conflict. There was conducted the trial of settle correlation between EPO activity in fetal blood and bilirubin concentration in amniotic fluid and its optical density ratio obtained by amniopuncture in the same pregnancies.

[A model for medical care of gestational diabetes]

Our approach to taking care of 122 diabetic pregnant women was presented. At first, they were hospitalized in the Pathological Pregnancy Ward. An intensive insulin therapy (human insulin) was initiated and all the patients were educated. The pregnant appeared as an outpatient every fortnight within the first part of pregnancy and every seven to ten days in the second one. They were hospitalized for a few days in 12th and 24th week of pregnancy and from 36th/37th week until delivery. Unfortunately, their first arrival to our center was too late, usually with diabetes out of control. There were 3 miscarriages (2.4%), 111 newborns were in a satisfactory condition (91%), 4 died (3.3%), congenital malformations were found in four others (3.3%). A successful course of pregnancy was dependent upon a proper care taken of patients early enough, good cooperation with them and related with it satisfactory metabolic control of diabetes.

[Activity of cathepsin B and D in blood serum of women with uterine cervix neoplasms]

The activity of cathepsins B and D were determined in the serum in 98 patients with carcinoma of the cervix uteri and in 25 women with dysplasia of the cervix uteri. The clinical value of the examined enzymes was performed. The results show that the mean serum activity of cathepsins increase with progression of neoplastic disease. The elevation of at least one of two studied lysosomal hydrolases were estimated in 68 patients (69.5%) with carcinoma of the cervix uteri.

[Selected clinical and laboratory tests during specific immunotherapy of patients hypersensitive to insect bites]

The study aimed at determining selected immunologic parameters of the cellular histamine secretion and skin reactivity in the group of 9 patients hypersensitive to insect poison with effective immunotherapy following 2 years of maintenance treatment. It has been shown that the continuation of the specific immunotherapy for 2 years maintains and even increases favourable changes in humoral and cellular immunity induced already in the early phase of desensitization. An assay of the specific IgE and IgG4, cellular histamine secretion, and skin reactivity is of value in monitoring specific allergy to insect poison immunotherapy.

[Fertility of women after surgical intervention on organs of reproduction]

The research included 114 female patients treated at the Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynaecology in the years 1986-1991. Information was based on a questionnaire, with 40 (35%) answers. Basic parameters of fertility were evaluated in women, who underwent surgical intervention on reproductive organs and they were discussed in connection with other conditioning. It was ascertained that the decision concerning infertility treatment is taken up by young patients, up to 25 years of age, during the first 5 years of marriage. Duration of the treatment in the majority of patients lasts longer than 5 years. Routine surgical interventions in the area of reproductive organs do not increase significantly the possibility of conception. Whereas in this group we deal more often with ectopic pregnancy.

[Socio-medical conditioning of marital infertility]

An inquiry was carried out among 185 women diagnosed because of infertility. The questionnaires included personal data, obstetric information from the past and information concerning earlier attempts at diagnosing and treating both partners. Authors of this article are of the opinion that infertile couples, especially from the country, decide only too late to find out the causes of the infertility. Taking into consideration the range of present day knowledge, the authors point out that highly specialized centres should deal with diagnosing and treating infertility.

[Surgical treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome. B. Postoperative examinations]

After the wedge resection of the ovaries the authors obtained the normal menses in 100%, the reduction of total testosterone in blood of 41.8% and of 17-KS in urine of 20%, an increase of fertility of 62.5% and in hirsutism a correction only of 12%, the stopping of 12% and no correction of 76%. The authors conclude that the cause of the healing or of the correction is placed in the resection of 3/4 of the changed ovaries with cysts follicles with distinct thecal layer what is accompanied by the reduction of testosterone on average of 41.8%. On contrary a weak correction in hirsutism has the explanation that the existent hirsutism is supported even by the normal level of testosterone in organism.

[Surgical treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome. A. Preoperative examinations]

The aim to study was the determination the effect of operative treatment of 31 patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. Before the operation primarily the authors confirmed at the patients the presence of menstrual abnormalities in 96.8%, of infertility in 100%, of hirsutism I. in 9.7%, II. in 61.8%, III. in 29% and the average level of 17-ketosteroids 16.0 +/- 6.9, of DHEA 3.7 +/- 1.5 mg and of estrogens 39.0 +/- 15.1 mcg in 24 urine, of total testosterone 0.98 +/- 0.24, of FSH 3.4 +/- 1.5, of LH 44 +/- 2.4, of prolactin 11.4 +/- 5.4 and of estradiol 0.32 +/- 0.35 ng/ml in blood. On the basis of clinical, hormonal or/and ultrasonographic examinations the diagnosis of the polycystic ovarian disease was performed.

[Pharmacokinetic examination of theophylline in pregnancy in cases of fetal anoxia]

The purpose of the investigation was to determine the effects of pregnancy on theophylline pharmacokinetics and to clarify the clinical effect of theophylline treatment in cases of threatened anoxemia of foetus. The study was carried out in 15 pregnant women between 28 and 32 weeks of pregnancy with chronic anoxemia of the foetus. The women obtained Aminophyllinum "Polfa" 250 mg (201.3 mg of theophylline) every 12 hours for 4 days to achieve the steady-state of theophylline. After the first dose the drug concentration reached the level of theophylline in range of 12.05 +/- 4.57 micrograms/ml in 15 minutes to 3.62 +/- 0.74 micrograms/ml in 12 hours. The subsequent doses increased the concentration and in steady-state the concentration fluctuates between 21.48 +/- 10.00 micrograms/ml and 6.20 +/- 1.56 micrograms/ml, what coincides with established therapeutic range of theophylline (10-20 micrograms/ml). Elimination of the drug was characterised by calculation of the elimination rate constant and drug-clearance. Both parameters are higher after a single administration what suggest the accumulation of theophylline after multiple drug administration by the saturation of enzymes taking part in metabolism of the drug. Attention should be paid higher values of half-life in pregnancy in comparison with those obtained previously in healthy volunteers. Comparative investigations of the level of theophylline in amniotic fluid in relation to maternal blood in steady-state showed a high correlation between these two values (r = 0.7867, p < 0.006). The proportion of the concentration of theophylline in relation to that in maternal blood is about 60% (0.5978 +/- 0.1599).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

[Pharmacokinetic investigations of verapamil used as a concomitant drug in treatment of premature labor]

The study carried out on 35 pregnant women, who were threatened with fenoterol and verapamil by premature delivery. The pharmacokinetics of verapamil have been examined after single dose and in steady state using drug in a dose of 2 x 80 mg/day (15 women) and 3 x 40 mg/day (8 women). Verapamil in a dose of 2 x 80 mg/day induced average steady state concentration in range of 40.6 +/- 7.8 ng/ml to 134.2 +/- 56.9 ng/ml and in a dose of 3 x 40 mg/day 28.9 +/- 5.1 ng/ml to 69.8 +/- 11.2 ng/ml. Since most authors take as optimal therapeutic level of verapamil in blood the range of 100-200 ng/ml, it seems that dosage regimen of 2 x 80 mg/day can be recommended. Additionally, verapamil concentration in maternal blood and in amniotic fluid were determined simultaneously in a group of 12 pregnant women. Verapamil readily penetrates placenta reaching in amniotic fluid about 70% of the concentration observed in maternal blood.

[Level of specific IgE and IgG in blood serum of patients with hay fever after several cycles of desensitization with pollinex vaccine]

Blood serum specific IgE and IgG levels have been assayed in a group of 54 patients allergic to grass pollen during the long-lasting desensitization with Pollinex Depot vaccine. Specific IgE and IgG levels were determined with RAST and IgG-RAST technique whereas a titre of the blocking antibodies with RAST inhibition test. It was found that cyclic administration of Pollinex vaccine, repeated every 3-4 years, significantly influences patients' immunologic system manifested by a decrease in specific IgE, and an increase in both IgG level and the titre of the blocking antibodies.