Aromaticity effect on supramolecular aggregation. Aromatic vs. cyclic monohydroxy alcohols

In this paper, the steric hindrance effect related to the presence of either a cyclic or aromatic ring on the self-association process in the series of monohydroxy alcohols (MAs), from cyclohexanemethanol to 4-cyclohexyl-1-butanol and from benzyl alcohol to 4-phenyl-1-butanol, was studied using X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Broadband Dielectric Spectroscopy (BDS) and the Pendant Drop (PD) methods. Based on FTIR results, it was shown that phenyl alcohol (PhA) and cyclohexyl alcohol (CA) derivatives reveal substantial differences in the association degree, the activation energy of dissociation, and the homogeneity of supramolecular nanoassociates suggesting that the phenyl ring exerts a stronger steric impact on the self-assembling of molecules than cyclohexyl one. Additionally, XRD data revealed that phenyl moiety introduces more heterogeneity in the organization of molecules compared to the cyclic one. The changes in the self-association process of alcohols were also reflected in differences in the molecular dynamics of the H-bonded aggregates, as well as in the Kirkwood factor, defining the long-range correlation between dipoles, which were slightly higher for CAs with respect to those determined for PhAs. Unexpectedly it was also found that the surface layers of PhAs were more organized than those formed by CAs. Thus, these findings provided insight into the impact of aromaticity on the self-assembly process, H-bonding pattern, supramolecular structure, and intermolecular dynamics of the studied alcohols.

The impact of the length of alkyl chain on the behavior of benzyl alcohol homologues - the interplay between dispersive and hydrogen bond interactions

In this work, we examined the effect of the length of alkyl chain attached to the benzene ring on the self-assembling phenomena for a series of phenyl alcohol (PhA) derivatives, from phenylmethanol (benzyl alcohol) to 7-phenyl-1-heptanol, by means of X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and Broadband Dielectric Spectroscopy (BDS) methods. XRD data in the reciprocal and real spaces showed a gradual increase in the local order with the elongation of the alkyl chain. However, the position and full width at half maximum of the main diffraction peak exhibited a non-systematic behavior. To better understand this fact, PhAs were subjected to FTIR spectroscopic studies. These investigations revealed that the association degree and the activation energy of dissociation increase as the alkyl chain length grows. On the other hand, BDS data showed a non-monotonic variation in the Kirkwood correlation factor with increasing length of the alkyl chain, indicating a competition between interactions of the non-polar and polar parts of the molecules in the studied PhAs. Finally, it was also found that the molar surface entropy for PhAs increases with the number of methylene groups, approaching values reported for alkanes, which indicates suppression of the surface order for PhAs with a long alkyl chain. This variability of the various parameters as a function of the length of the side chain shows that the interplay between soft interactions has a strong impact on the local structure and intra and intermolecular dynamics of the studied PhAs.

Influence of the Internal Structure and Intermolecular Interactions on the Correlation between Structural (α) and Secondary (β-JG) Relaxation below the Glass Transition Temperature in Neat Probucol and Its Binary Mixtures with Modified Saccharides

Broadband dielectric spectroscopy (BDS) has been used to study the molecular dynamics and aging process in neat probucol (PRO) as well as its binary mixtures with selected acetylated saccharides. In particular, we applied the Casalini and Roland approach to determine structural relaxation times in the glassy state of the examined systems (so-called isostructural times, τ_iso). Next, using the calculated τ_iso, primitive relaxation times of the coupling model were obtained and compared to the experimental secondary β (Johari-Goldstein (JG) type) relaxation times. Interestingly, it turned out that there is a correlation between the β-JG and the structural (α)-relaxation processes below the glass transition temperature (T < T_g) in each investigated sample. This is a new observation compared to previous studies demonstrating that such a relationship exists only in the supercooled liquid state of neat PRO. Moreover, it was revealed that the stretching parameters obtained from the aging procedure are very close to the ones determined by fitting the dielectric data above the T_g with the use of the Kohlrausch-Williams-Watts function, indicating that the aging process is governed by the α-relaxation. Complementary Fourier transform infrared and X-ray diffraction measurements allowed us to find a possible reason for these findings. It was demonstrated that although there are very weak intermolecular interactions between PRO and modified saccharides, the intra- and intermolecular structure of PRO is practically unaffected by the presence of modified saccharides.

Does the molecular mobility and flexibility of the saccharide ring affect the glass-forming ability of naproxen in binary mixtures?

In this paper, we studied the impact of saccharides having a similar backbone but differing in the degree of freedom, local molecular mobility, flexibility of the ring and intermolecular interactions on the glass-forming ability (GFA) of naproxen (NAP) in binary mixtures. For this purpose, a series of methyl and acetyl derivatives of glucose (GLS) and anhydroglucose (anhGLS), as well as neat anhGLS have been used to produce homogeneous solid dispersions (SDs) of varying molar concentration of examined active pharmaceutical ingredient (API). Systematic measurements with the use of Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Broadband Dielectric Spectroscopy (BDS) enabled us to determine the phase transitions, homogeneity and molecular mobility of the investigated binary mixtures as well as the impact of excipient on the crystallization tendency of NAP. It turned out that acetylated glucose (acGLS), one of the most mobile and flexible saccharides of all examined herein materials, is the best excipient enhancing the GFA of studied API. Although, it should be noted that upon storage at room temperature, we observed the recrystallization of NAP from binary mixtures. Interestingly, API always crystallized to the initial polymorphic form, as shown by X-ray diffraction (XRD) investigations. Finally, since additional measurements with the use of Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy clearly indicated that there are no significant differences in the intermolecular interactions in the systems composed of NAP and all examined saccharides, one can postulate that the mobility and ring flexibility of the matrix have, , the most important impact on the crystallization tendency of NAP upon cooling. Consequently, it seems that in some cases, more mobile/flexible matrices can be a much better choice to enhance the glass-forming ability of studied pharmaceutical.

Dramatic slowing down of the conformational equilibrium in the silyl derivative of glucose in the vicinity of the glass transition temperature

The vitrification process is usually preceded by a significant change (around 6-8 decades) in the viscosity, structural relaxation times, or diffusion that occurs in a relatively small range of temperatures in fragile liquids. Along with this phenomenon, conformations of the molecules vary as well. In fact, this process is studied in bulk polymers and high molecular weight materials deposited in the form of thin films. On the other hand, spatial rearrangement of small glass formers in the supercooled liquid state has not been intensively investigated, so far. Herein, data obtained from measurements carried out using various experimental techniques on supercooled 1,2,3,4,6-penta-O-(trimethylsilyl)-d-glucopyranose (S-GLU) have revealed that rotations of silyl moieties along with the deformation in the saccharide ring are significantly slowed down in the vicinity of the glass transition temperature (Tg). These intramolecular reorganizations affect the structural relaxation time, atomic pair distribution function, integrated intensity, as well as a number of bands and signals observed, respectively, in the Raman and NMR spectra. Data reported herein offer a better understanding of the conformational variation and time scale of this process in the complex and flexible molecules around the Tg.

Signatures of a jet cocoon in early spectra of a supernova associated with a γ-ray burst

Long γ-ray bursts are associated with energetic, broad-lined, stripped-envelope supernovae^1,2 and as such mark the death of massive stars. The scarcity of such events nearby and the brightness of the γ-ray burst afterglow, which dominates the emission in the first few days after the burst, have so far prevented the study of the very early evolution of supernovae associated with γ-ray bursts³. In hydrogen-stripped supernovae that are not associated with γ-ray bursts, an excess of high-velocity (roughly 30,000 kilometres per second) material has been interpreted as a signature of a choked jet, which did not emerge from the progenitor star and instead deposited all of its energy in a thermal cocoon⁴. Here we report multi-epoch spectroscopic observations of the supernova SN 2017iuk, which is associated with the γ-ray burst GRB 171205A. Our spectra display features at extremely high expansion velocities (around 115,000 kilometres per second) within the first day after the burst^5,6. Using spectral synthesis models developed for SN 2017iuk, we show that these features are characterized by chemical abundances that differ from those observed in the ejecta of SN 2017iuk at later times. We further show that the high-velocity features originate from the mildly relativistic hot cocoon that is generated by an ultra-relativistic jet within the γ-ray burst expanding and decelerating into the medium that surrounds the progenitor star^7,8. This cocoon rapidly becomes transparent⁹ and is outshone by the supernova emission, which starts to dominate the emission three days after the burst.

Experimental (FTIR, BDS) and theoretical analysis of mutarotation kinetics of d-fructose mixed with different alcohols in the supercooled region

The mutarotation kinetics of pure molten d-fructose and its binary mixture with alcohols (i.e., sorbitol and maltitol) have been reported using Fourier transform infrared, broadband dielectric spectroscopy and density functional theory calculations.

Thermodynamic scaling of molecular dynamics in supercooled liquid state of pharmaceuticals: Itraconazole and ketoconazole

Pressure-Volume-Temperature (PVT) measurements and broadband dielectric spectroscopy were carried out to investigate molecular dynamics and to test the validity of thermodynamic scaling of two homologous compounds of pharmaceutical activity: itraconazole and ketoconazole in the wide range of thermodynamic conditions. The pressure coefficients of the glass transition temperature (dT(g)/dp) for itraconazole and ketoconazole were determined to be equal to 183 and 228 K/GPa, respectively. However, for itraconazole, the additional transition to the nematic phase was observed and characterized by the pressure coefficient dT(n)/dp = 258 K/GPa. From PVT and dielectric data, we obtained that the liquid-nematic phase transition is governed by the relaxation time since it occurred at constant τ(α) = 10(-5) s. Furthermore, we plotted the obtained relaxation times as a function of T(-1)v(-γ), which has revealed that the validity of thermodynamic scaling with the γ exponent equals to 3.69 ± 0.04 and 3.64 ± 0.03 for itraconazole and ketoconazole, respectively. Further analysis of the scaling parameter in itraconazole revealed that it unexpectedly decreases with increasing relaxation time, which resulted in dramatic change of the shape of the thermodynamic scaling master curve. While in the case of ketoconazole, it remained the same within entire range of data (within experimental uncertainty). We suppose that in case of itraconazole, this peculiar behavior is related to the liquid crystals' properties of itraconazole molecule.

Effect of IL-6 deficiency on myocardial expression of fatty acid transporters and intracellular lipid deposits

IL-6 is a biologically active substance and is thought to contribute to the development of obesity. Recent findings suggest that susceptibility to intracellular lipid accumulation is to a large extent determined by changes in the expression of fatty acid transporters such as FAT/CD36, FABPpm and FATP-1. The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of IL-6 deficiency on the expression of fatty acid transporters, as well as, assess the concomitant changes in intracellular lipids. We found that Il-6 deficiency upregulated the myocardial expression of FAT/CD36 (+40%) and did not significantly affect the content of FABPpm and FATP-1 (+15% and +5% respectively). Although no change in the intramyocardial total lipid content was noted, there was a significant increase in the intracellular content of both free fatty acid (FFA), diacylglicerol (DG) and ceramide fractions (+45%, +37% and +48%, respectively) in hearts from IL-6 -/- mice. A trend for IL-6 deficiency to increase in saturated FA species in these fractions was also observed (+8%, +12% and +10%, respectively). In contrast, IL-6 deficiency has no effect on the content of monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) species in each intramyocardial lipid fractions examined. These findings suggest that IL-6 deficiency results in 1) upregulation of myocardial content of FAT/CD36, 2) the increase in the content of biologically active lipid pools (FFA, DG and ceramide). This lipid accumulation with concomitant trend for increase in the saturation status of these lipid fractions may, at least in part, provide a factor related to the development of intramyocardial lipotoxicity, observed in obese individuals.

The association between type 2 diabetes mellitus and A1/A2 polymorphism of glycoprotein IIIa gene

Glycoprotein IIIa (GpIIIa) is a membrane receptor, found in various tissues, that has two alleles: A1 and A2. Signalling cascade of GpIIIa is modulated by enzymes called calpains, proteases that may also influence glucose metabolism. There is one small study that shows a high association of A1/A2 polymorphism with type 2 diabetes mellitus. In our research we planned to evaluate the association of A1/A2 polymorphism with type 2 diabetes in a population of patients with ST elevation acute myocardial infarction (STEMI). The study comprised 352 individuals. From the cohort of patients hospitalised for STEMI we chose 113 patients with diagnosed diabetes (diabetic group) and 118 patients with STEMI and normal glucose metabolism (non-diabetic group). The population group consisted of 121 persons. Genotyping was performed by the restriction fragments length polymorphism (RFLP) method. The frequency of alleles in all groups was in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The percentage of A2 allele carriers was comparable among all groups : 20.4% (diabetic patients), 23.7% (nondiabetic) and 21.5% (control group) (p>0.05). There was no significant difference in frequency of A2 allele among the groups. We have not observed any association between GpIIIa polymorphism with either type 2 diabetes or STEMI.

[Risk assessment for preterm delivery in pregnant women with active periodontitis]

INTRODUCTION

Premature labor has been regarded as a highly problematic clinical event not only due to its relation with perinatal mortality but also in the light of the remote results of the prematurity. Therefore many ongoing studies concentrate on evaluation of potentially avoidable risk factors of premature labor. Relatively few studies have suggested chronic periodontitis as such a determinant.

OBJECTIVES

Prospective evaluation of periodontium changes in the course of otherwise normal pregnancy. Assessment of potential influence of periodontium pathology, and its severity, on the obstetrical complications. The authors have made literature search on the relation of active periodontitis and premature labor.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Study involved 120 randomized gravidae attending electively dental clinic for a routine control.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

single pregnancy, no preterm delivery in a history, mother's age 18 to 35 years, gestational age 10 to 20 weeks based on a last menstrual period date--confirmed on ultrasound. Every patient underwent dental examination twice--at the inclusion date and 48 hours after delivery. Patients were divided into three groups. Group I (n = 25)--healthy patients. Group II (n = 61)--patients with mild or moderate periodontitis. Group III (n = 39) patients with a severe periodontitis. Progression of lesions was recognized if the post-delivery dental assessment revealed increase of the pockets depth higher than 2mm and in at least 4 places compared with the initial findings.

RESULT

In the course of otherwise normal pregnancy women with signs of inflammation within periodontium revealed progression of this pathology proportional to its severity in early pregnancy. This increase was associated with 4-fold higher rate of preterm deliveries in Group II and 12-fold in Group III compared with healthy patients.

CONCLUSION

Active and severe periodontitis should be regarded as independent and highly influential risk factor of the preterm delivery.

[Diagnostic difficulties of Toxoplasma gondii infection in pregnant women. Is it possible to explain doubts by polymerase chain reaction?]

OBJECTIVES

Toxoplasma gondii infection during pregnancy is still a difficult problem in the contemporary perinatology. Difficulties met during interpretation of serological tests carried out in pregnant patients to detect Toxoplasmosis implies more and more frequent use of the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR).

DESIGN

To evaluate the dependence between serological tests and quantity of the Toxoplasma gondii genomes in mothers' blood and amniotic fluid or neonatal blood, the quantitative PCR (q-PCR) method was applied.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The analysis was performed in 81 pregnant women. Maternal blood, amniotic fluid and newborns' umbilical blood samples were evaluated for the presence of Toxoplasma gondii DNA. IgG and IgM Toxoplasma gondii antibodies were evaluated by the ELISA method.

RESULTS

High seroprevalence (51.9%) of the Toxoplasma gondii was confirmed. Toxoplasma gondii genetic material in blood and/or amniotic fluid was found in 33 patients. It was stated that quantity of the protozoa and anti-IgM presence in mothers' blood are the factors influencing significantly the Toxoplasma gondii manifestation in amniotic fluid.

CONCLUSION

High suitability of PCR in diagnosis of Toxoplasmosis during pregnancy and vertical transmission was confirmed.

[Changes to the periodontium in postmenopausal women]

Few up to date studies on the influence of hormonal replacement therapy (HRT) on periodontium has been conducted on small groups of patients and the conclusions made may require further investigation on a larger population. It has been widely accepted that decreased estrogen levels in postmenopausal women are associated with a gradual loss of a bone density and increased risk of a dental loss. Much less stress is put however on the fact that the same phenomenon, especially suboptimal levels of estradiol, may deteriorate periodontal tissue condition. The authors made a literature search on the influence of HRT on periodontium.

[Mediastinal tumor as a cause of fetal hydrops]

Unusual case of fetal hydrops was presented. In a stillborn infant an Rh incompatibility was suspected as a cause of hydrops, although prentally an immunologic source of the illness was excluded. Post-mortem a large polycystic mediastinal teratoma with cardiac and pulmonary hypoplasia was stated as a main cause of the hydrops. Additionally, histopathological examination proved this diagnosis. The mediastinal tissue contained immature epithelial, mesenchymal and blastemal elements. The congenital teratomas should be taken for account in problematic diagnosis of complicated cases.

[Frequency of vaginal infections in pregnant women in the Department of Perinatology and Gynaecology in Zabrze]

OBJECTIVES

The analysis of vaginal infections in pregnant women admitted to the Department of Perinatology and Gynaecology in Zabrze, from January 2001 to September 2003.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

They were screened for BV, candidiasis and trichomoniasis. 450 pregnant women (the age of pregnancy 25 +/- 9 weeks gestation) were examined for the presence of these microorganisms in the vagina. Diagnosis was based on symptoms, pH measurement and microscopic examination of the vaginal discharge.

CONCLUSIONS

The most common vaginal infection was candidiasis--188 (42%), 86 (19 %) women had BV, 17 (4%) Trichomonas vaginalis and 159 (35%) patients had normal vaginal flora.

[Etiology of intrauterine growth retardation. Part II: maternal disorders]

The second part of discussion incorporates maternal conditions influencing the risk of intrauterine growth retardation. Special attention was paid to the systemic abnormalities, and those pregnancy related, known for their links with affected placenta-uterine barrier or otherwise related to abnormal fetal growth. Both social and environmental groups of factors potentially influencing prenatal development have been discussed.

[Etiology of intrauterine growth retardation. Part I: placental-fetal interrelationship disorder]

Intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) increases a risk of perinatal complications and may carry a negative influence on a later baby's mental and physical development. Poorer function revealed by many vital organs seems to be the effect of their lower mass and their relative immaturity. In the first part of a paper the authors discuss two groups of factors thought to be responsible for IUGR. The first one has been related to the fetal status-genetic anomalies, other primary developmental defects and different growth patterns.

[Doppler measurements of blood flow velocity and waveforms in fetal venous circulation]

Ultrasonic velocimetry of the fetal circulation became a very useful method in assessment of fetal well-being, especially in high risk pregnancies. There are many papers concerning on distribution and regulation of blood flow in umbilical artery, middle cerebral artery, and much less dealing with flow velocity waveforms in inferior vena cava and ductus venosus and their clinical significance. Fetal compromise is associated with significant alterations in the fetal arterial and venous circulation. Changes in venous Doppler waveforms develop due to increased afterload and perhaps myocardial failure in deterioration after arterial redistribution is established. Doppler investigation of the fetal venous circulation may play an important role in monitoring the redistribution and may help to determine the optimal time for delivery.

Relationship between gastroesophageal reflux disease and myocardial ischemia. Effect of reflux on temporary activity of autonomic nervous system

PURPOSE

Assessment of the gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) influence on myocardial ischemia and autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In 50 patients with angiographically confirmed ischemic heart disease (IHD) in I-III CCS class, simultaneous 24-hour ECG and esophageal pH-metry monitoring was performed. We assessed: (1) GERD occurrence in patients with IHD, (2) influence of pathological reflux (PR) on myocardial ischemia--number and total duration of ST depression episodes in GERD and non-GERD patients, (3) temporary activity of ANS was determined according to the dynamics of spectral HRV (Heart Rate Variability) analysis components (LF, HF, VLF, LF/HF).

RESULTS

23 patients (46%) fullfilled the GERD criteria. Patients with GERD had significantly higher number of ST depression episodes (4.13 vs 2.85, p = 0.013) as well as longer total duration of ischemia (64.73 vs 35.2 min, p = 0.034). Spectral HRV analysis showed the significant decrease of LF/HF ratio (p < 0.035), which indicates the sympathovagal balance shift towards the parasympathetic system caused by PR.

CONCLUSIONS

1. GERD is frequent condition in patients with angiographically confirmed IHD. Coexistence of GERD may predispose to the myocardial ischemia. 2. Gastroesophageal reflux may cause the shift of sympathovagal balance towards its parasympathetic component. This mechanism may induce esophago-cardiac reflex, leading to diminished myocardial perfusion.

[Prevention of iron deficiency anemia--influence on the course of pregnancy, delivery and the infant's status]

BACKGROUND

Iron deficiency is probably the most common nutritional disturbance in the world. At the highest risk, irrespective of economical status, are women at the reproductive age--especially those who are pregnant. Retrospective analysis of a course of gestation, delivery and the infant's status depending on mothers' iron supplementation during pregnancy. Medical notes of healthy 860 pregnant women hospitalized at term in the Clinic of Perinatology and Gynaecology, Zabrze, Poland were analyzed. Patients were divided into two categories: Group I (n = 610) were those having iron subjunction and Group II (n = 250) those who did not. Mean gestational age at the delivery was significantly lower in those without the prophylaxis. These patients had significantly higher rate of preterm deliveries and caesarean sections. Macroscopic abnormalities of the afterbirth were commoner in this group as were bleeding during III labour stage and indications for postpartum curettage. insignificantly lower mean birth weight and 1st/5th minute Apgar scores had children born to women without supplementation. Routine iron supplementation in women with initially normal haemoglobin levels seems to be a safe strategy for preventing perinatal complications.

[Value of selected biophysical surveillance methods in prediction and prophylaxis of complications associated with adverse pregnancy outcome in intrauterine growth restriction]

Intrauterine growth restriction is associated with higher rate of complications occurring during pregnancy and in labour, increased morbidity and mortality rate in neonatal period, impaired psychosomatic development in childhood and increased susceptibility for particular diseases in adulthood. For improvement of perinatal outcome it is essential to establish objective criteria based on biophysical surveillance methods for prediction and prophylaxis of adverse outcome in IUGR pregnancies. The aim of the study was to compare selected biophysical surveillance methods in prediction and prophylaxis of complications associated with adverse pregnancy outcome in intrauterine growth restriction. There were statistically significant differences in CTG, BPS, AFI, and pulsatile index values in umbilical artery and MCA between IUGR and normal fetuses. The best predictor of adverse pregnancy outcome in IUGR fetuses was PI value in umbilical artery.

[Immunohistochemical localisation of metallothionein in ovarian endometriosis in women]

OBJECTIVES

Endometriosis is an illness accompanied by invasion features, but malignant changes appear extremely seldom. Metallothionein (MT) is a protein and takes part in the detoxicating processes of the organism. MT is located, among others, in benign and malignant neoplasms in animals as well as humans, mainly in the S phase of cellular cycle, and that is why MT is considered to be both an index of cell proliferation and tumor progress.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

34 specimens from 21 women with ovary endometriosis (III degree according to AFS) have been examined. The specimens were obtained during surgery and they were histopathologically verified. The material was coloured by H + E and by van Gieson method, and MT was determined immunohistochemically. The measurement of the cells number containing MT was performed with measurement system Multi-Scan Base V8.08, with the microscope Axiophot, Zeiss Jena in so-called measurements areas, with the surface 18802 microns 2.

RESULTS

High MT capacity was found in the epithelial cells in the endometriosis focus. This high MT capacity may imply that there exists the proliferation process in the focuses of external endometriosis. Simultaneously, the lowest MT capacity was discovered in glandular ducts.

CONCLUSIONS

Proliferating epithelial cells contain the highest capacity of MT, which indicates increase of number of dividing cells particularly in the S phase of cellular cycle and that is why MT can be considered one of the markers of ovary endometriosis.

The influence of calyculin A on lymphocytes in vitro

Human lymphocytes were cultured in vitro and treated with calyculin A. The aim of this work was to estimate the influence of calyculin A on chromosome morphology and banding patterns. It was also interesting whether calyculin A treatment is useful in cytogenetic analysis of human karyotype. We proved that calyculin A induces chromosome condensation in lymphocytes and raises the mitotic index significantly. Moreover, calyculin A does not influence the banding patterns. Therefore it is concluded that calyculin A can be clinically useful for human karyotyping.

[Manifestation of glutathione S-transferase GSTM1 and GSTT1 in female patients with bleomycin-positive chromosome instability]

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this research is to assess the incidence of gene polymorphisms coding the GSTM1 and GSTT1 enzymes in a population of female patients with chromosome instability.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The PCR method was used to determine the genotype for GSTM1 and GSTT1. The breaks per cell and the percentage of damaged cells were calculated. The separation point used to diagnose chromosome instability in tested females was assumed to be 2.5.

RESULTS

In a tested population of 85 females with chromosome instability, the deletion of both the alleles of the GSTT1 gene was observed in 22 females (25% of the group) and deletion of both the alleles of the GSTM1 gene was observed in 42 females (53% of the group). In addition, the incidence of individual genes was calculated for the tested population. The X2 test showed that the differences between the observed and expected values of the tested genes were statistically immaterial, i.e. the likelihood of randomness for these differences exceeded 99%.

CONCLUSIONS

No relationship between the manifestation of genotypes for the GSTM1 and GSTT1 glutathione S-transferases and an increased chromosome instability confirmed with the bleomycin test was proven for a population of females with a neoplastic risk.

[Analysis of mode of delivery in cases with fetal premature atrial contractions]

OBJECTIVE

Premature atrial contractions are common in obstetrical practise but there is little information available on recommended management and mode of delivery.

DESIGN

The aim of the study was to describe our clinical experience in the management of fetal arrhythmia including the indications for certain time and way of labour.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

128 fetuses with diagnosed supraventricular arrhythmia described as atrial extrasystole were examined. They were divided into 3 main groups: group I (84 fetuses) with single PAC, group II (37 fetuses) with quantitatively significant arrhythmia or accompanied by another kind of arrhythmia and group III (7 fetuses) associated with extracardiac abnormalities.

RESULTS

Among 128 fetuses with supraventricular arrhythmia, 44 cases (31%) required systematic monitoring. Quantitatively significant arrhythmia was recognized in 15 cases, blocked bigeminy (2:1) in 2 fetuses, 10 cases were accompanied by another arrhythmias: 4x SVT, 4x sinus bradycardia, 2x premature ventricular contractions (PVC). There were 3 fetuses diagnosed with heart defects and 7 with extracardiac malformations. Fetal echocardiography revealed additional functional circulatory changes in 7 fetuses with premature atrial contractions. Myocarditis was recognized in 2 fetuses. The mode of delivery was analyzed in 128 cases. In the first group 27 patients (32%) underwent caesarean section, in the second group--23 (62%), in the third group 3 patients (43%), respectively. Cardiac indications for caesarean section equalled 22% of all the indications occurring in fetuses suffering from arrhythmia.

CONCLUSIONS

Caesarean section is much more commonly performed among fetuses diagnosed with arrhythmia accompanied by another fetal anomalies comparing to the group of fetuses with isolated arrhythmia. Although there are no particular cardiac indications for such way of delivery, total amount of caesarean sections performed in that group is really great. Above all, it may suggest that the obstetrician is under pressure of stress while making decision concerning caesarean section performance, even when there are no other indications and the condition of fetus is stable enough.

[Microcytomorphometric video-image detection of nuclear chromatin in ovarian cancer]

Technology of detection of tissue preparates precisious evaluates contents of nuclear chromatine, largeness and shape of cellular nucleus, indicators of mitosis, DNA index, ploidy, phase-S fraction and other parameters. Methods of detection of picture are: microcytomorphometry video-image (MCMM-VI), flow, double flow and activated by fluorescence. Diagnostic methods of malignant neoplasm of ovary are still nonspecific and not precise, that is a reason of unsatisfied results of treatment.

OBJECTIVE

Evaluation of microcytomorphometric measurements of nuclear chromatine histopathologic tissue preparates (HP) of ovarian cancer and comparison to normal ovarian tissue.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Estimated 10 paraffin embedded tissue preparates of serous ovarian cancer, 4 preparates mucinous cancer and 2 cases of tumor Kruckenberg patients operated in Clinic of Perinatology and Gynaecology Silesian Medical Academy in Zabrze in period 2001-2002, MCMM-VI estimation based on computer aided analysis system: microscope Axioscop 20, camera tv JVCTK-C 1380, CarlZeiss KS Vision 400 rel.3.0 software. Following MCMM-VI parameters assessed: count of pathologic nucleus, diameter of nucleus, area, min/max diameter ratio, equivalent circle diameter (Dcircle), mean of brightness (mean D), integrated optical density (IOD = area x mean D), DNA index and 2.5 c exceeding rate percentage (2.5 c ER%). MCMM-VI performed on the 160 areas of 16 preparates of cancer and 100 areas of normal ovarian tissue. Statistical analysis was performed by used t-Student test.

RESULTS

We obtained stastistically significant higher values parameters of nuclear chromatine, DI, 2.5 c ER of mucinous cancer and tumor Kruckenberg comparison to serous cancer. MCMM-VI parameters of chromatine malignant ovarian neoplasm were statistically significantly higher than normal ovarian tissue.

CONCLUSION

Cytometric and karyometric parametres of nuclear chromatine estimated MCMM-VI are useful in the diagnostics and prognosis of ovarian cancer.

[Rare case of a malignant brain neoplasm in an 18-years old pregnant woman]

Authors presented rare case of anaplastic ependymoma diagnosed in the first trimester of pregnancy 18-years of age patient. Main symptoms of increased intracranial pressure and cerebral edema were vomits, severe headache and apathy. In the sixteen week of pregnancy performed craniotomy and evacuated malignant tumor of region IV ventricle trunk of the brain. Follow during pregnancy made brachytherapy (LDR). Cesarean section performed in the 30th week of pregnancy. Then indispensable radical radiotherapy was continued.

[Serum levels of CA-125 antigen during the first trimester of pregnancy complications and the risk of miscarriage]

BACKGROUND

The ultrasound, serum beta-HCG and progesterone titres are widely used to assess the risk of miscarriage at the early stages of pregnancy. Though very useful, they are not considered as satisfactorily accurate predictors of imminent abortion during the first three months of pregnancy.

AIM OF STUDY

Prospective evaluation of clinical usefulness of serum CA125 from 4-12th week of pregnancy in a group of women with symptoms of imminent abortion.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A study group were 250 consecutive women with symptoms of imminent abortion. Inclusion criteria were: abdominal pain, spotting, ultrasound picture of the embryo in the uterus, monovular pregnancy, normal ultrasound picture of ovaries, gestational age ranging from 4-12 weeks (assessed on a last menstrual period basis with ultrasound corroboration). 55 women with physiological course of pregnancy made up a control group. CA125 levels was evaluated with Roche Cobas Core CA125 II EIA.

RESULTS

In patients with symptoms of imminent abortion, serum CA125 titration in 4 to 12 weeks' gestation seems to be valuable only in woman with vaginal spotting or bleeding.

[Serum CA125 variability--new aspects of clinical usefulness]

Serum levels of CA125 turned out to be a valuable parameter not only as a marker of ovarian carcinoma but also in other fields of obstetrics and gynaecology. Up to date most of the studies dealing with the subject remain experimental and their clinical usefulness is not widely acknowledged. Accessible and relatively cheap tests measuring the serum level of this antigen together with its proven clinical value might contribute to a more frequent and much wider use than it takes place contemporarily.

[Antibiotic sensitivity of Enterobacteriaceae isolated from women vagina and uterine cervix]

Based on performed investigation in the group of 200 women treated for recurrent and chronic vaginitis and cervicitis, the characteristic of isolated microorganism was done. There were found series of drug-resistant bacteria in the vagina and uterine cervical canal in women with recurrent vaginitis and chronic cervicitis. In 42.6% of patients with diagnosed chronic cervicitis (Cervicitis chronica n = 50) Escherichia coli strains were isolated, 5% of which produced extended spectrum beta-lactamases (ES beta L). In women with recurrent vaginitis (Colpitis recidivans n = 150) Escherichia coli strains where isolated in 45.6%. Among them 4.5% produced ES beta L. Expression of beta-lactamases with broadened substrate spectrum was done in double-disc-test.

CONCLUSIONS

1. Study of antibiotic sensitivity of isolated bacteria should be a diagnostic standard in bacterial infections of uterine cervix and vagina. 2. The choice of appropriate antibiotics should take into consideration the drug-resistance mechanisms of isolated bacteria. 3. When drug-resistant bacteria are isolated, combined therapy should be applied.

High cholesterol in patients with ECG signs of no-reflow after myocardial infarction

PURPOSE

Despite successful restoration of blood flow in epicardial artery after myocardial infarction (MI), some patients do not benefit sufficiently from modern revascularisation methods due to the impairment of microcirculation, also called no-reflow phenomenon. Hyperlipidaemia is well established risk factor of coronary heart disease and its detrimental actions on vessels are widely acknowledged. We attempted to investigate possible relations between hyperlipidaemia and electrocardiographic signs of no-reflow in myocardial infarction after successful primary angioplasty.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 150 consecutive patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) with ST elevation who underwent successful primary angioplasty were studied. ECG was obtained directly before and 30 minutes after successful reperfusion. ST segment deviation was measured. Lack of 50% reduction of ST-segment elevation in the lead with maximal initial elevation, 30 minutes after angioplasty was defined as ECG sign of no-reflow.

RESULTS

ST-segment resolution occurred in 116 patients (77%), whereas 34 presented ECG signs of no-reflow (23%). Patients with persistent ST-segment elevation had higher blood LDL and total cholesterol (TC) levels than group with ST-segment restoration (146.5 vs. 128.7 p < 0.01 and 219.5 vs. 200.9, p < 0.05 respectively). Triglyceride, HDL, glucose on admission and fasting glucose levels did not differ significantly between groups. ECG signs of no-reflow were observed more often in patients with anterior AMI, history of prior myocardial infarction and longer pain-to-balloon time (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Positive relation between impaired tissue perfusion and high TC and LDL blood levels suggests that lipids may play a role in the pathogenesis of no-reflow phenomenon, possibly by impairment of endothelial function.

[Level of CA 125 antigen in serum of first trimester normal and miscarried pregnancy]

The ultrasound and titres of serum beta-HCG and progesterone are widely used to assess the risk of miscarriage at early stages of pregnancy. Although very useful, they are not considered as satisfactorily sensitive tests during the first three months of pregnancy. Therefore, their value is limited. Evaluation of serum levels of CA 125 antigen has been considered as useful in diagnosis and monitoring of some ovarian carcinomas. But there are some studies suggesting its predictive value when estimating the risk of miscarriage at early stages of pregnancy. The authors prove that women with threatening abortion revealed higher values of serum CA 125 antigen than those in control groups. The patients who had presented the highest values of the antigen later miscarried.

[New methods of monitoring the fetus during labor--detection of intrapartum fetal hypoxia by electrocardiography]

The biophysical diagnostic methods are an essential element of evaluation of the fetus state in pregnancy and delivery. Nowadays, the applied methods of fetus supervision during labour don't ensure the permanent analysis and they don't deliver diagnostic information about fetus hypoxia. With a view to avoiding the risk of fetus injury and its hypoxia technologies should be developed which allow to make a diagnosis of perils to good fetus condition and detection of intralabor hypoxia. Therefore, enhancing all new methods are indicated, which facilitate the diagnostic in a permanent mode and which allow for hypoxia prediction and the reduction of unjustified medical interferences. One of these methods is fetus electrocardiography.

[Ovarian tumors in pregnancy]

OBJECTIVES

The presence of adnexal tumours in pregnancy is a significant problem for obstetricians requiring quick diagnosis and operation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The paper presents 22 cases of ovarian tumours diagnosed and treated during pregnancy. In 12 cases laparoscopical cystectomies were performed, in 10 cases laparotomies were done.

RESULTS

Fifteen patients delivered at term, 7 of them by the natural way. In 8 cases cesarean sections were performed: in 4 cases because of obstacle to labour in the next 4 because of other obstetricians reasons. Benign ovarian tumors were found in 20 cases (cystis dermoidalis 18%, cystis follicularis 13.8%, cystoma serosum 13.8%, cystis simplex 18%, cystis corporis lutei 9.2%, cystis picea 18%). In 1 case borderline malignancy cystadenoma papillare mucinosum were diagnosed and in 1 case during laparoscopy in 21 weeks of pregnancy ovarian malignant metastatic tumors were found. Two patients miscarriage in 11 and 13 weeks of pregnancy. Last two pregnancies are still observed.

CONCLUSION

Ovarian tumors diagnosed during pregnancy have to be removed because of the thread of malignancy and pregnancy or labour complications.

[Vagina ecosystem with taking into consideration bacterial vaginosis in particular at pregnant women to be in miscarriage and premature delivery danger]

The main tests of this writing was defining pregnant vagina ecosystem at hospitalized Clinic patients between 5th and 37th pregnant week. Patients was divided on two group: I-st with miscarriage danger, II-nd with premature delivery danger. Bacterial Vaginosis was recognized based into consideration Amsela criterion at 13.4% of examined patients, BV with mycosis coexisted at 3.8%, mycosis infection at 42.2% and trichomoniasis at 4.6% pregnant women. Influence occurred infection of Bacterial Vaginosis on premature delivery coming was also examined. Patients attended towards BV during the pregnant time, which gave preterm birth--21 (47.7%) compared with patients proper vagina ecosystem which also gave preterm labour premature--49 (36.6%). No radical, statistic comparison between those two groups was noticed.

[Treatment of endometriosis with dienogest: preliminary report]

AIM OF THE STUDY

Influence of two hormonal therapies (GnRH agonist--leuprolein acetate and a new progestin--dienogest) on symptoms of endometriosis in patients with different clinical grade of disease.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

34 women with endometriosis confirmed by laparoscopy and histology were included into the study. Patients were randomized and divided into two therapeutic groups. One group was treated with dienogest and the second with leuprolein acetate during 6 month of study. The intensification of pain was assessed with Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and pelvic symptoms scale before, during (3 month) and after therapy. Dyspareunia was assessed with pelvic symptoms scale before, during (3 month) and after therapy. Frequency of adverse effects was assessed in 1, 3 and 6 month of therapy. Emotional state, bone density and basic serum parameters were assessed before and after therapy.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Dienogest as well as leuprolein acetate decreased pelvic pain and dyspareunia. There were no differences between these influences. Dienogest did not reveal androgenic activity (did not reveal activity nor intense seborrheic lesions, nor hirsutism, nor voice tone). Dienogest did not reveal hot flashes. Bleeding (caused by dienogest therapy) did not influence hematologic indices nor affected the patients' decision on preterm end of treatment.

[Endometriosis of the lungs: analysis of diagnosis and therapy]

A casuistic case has been presented with endometriosis of the lung in an 18-year-old girl. Several diagnostic difficulties including haemoptysis accompanying changes in the hings and chest, suggesting a npl process. The final diagnosis has been made after the second thoracotomy and was confirmed by the histopathological examination of the lungs and pleurae. Because of the patient's age the a-GnRH therapy was not taken and the treatment with new progestin (dienogest) was administered. The 4-months therapy have appeared to be fully positive without any side effects.

[Prenatal diagnostics of Toxoplasma gondii invasion by quantitative method of PCR-TaqMann]

Routine serological diagnosis of toxoplasmosis provides high sensitivity, but not high specificity. The high sensivity combined with high specifity offered by PCR-TaqMann as well as the degree of infection led us to investigate the presence and levels of T. gondii DNA in amniotic fluid, maternal and neonatal blood in cases of pregnancy where infection with this agent was suspected. Samples of amniotic fluid and blood were taken from pregnant women. Postnatal blood samples were also taken from their infants. Presence and levels of toxoplasma DNA was investigated using PCR-TaqMann. PCR products were detected by electrophoresis on polyacrylamide gel. The PCR-TaqMann test is highly sensitive, specific and useful method allowing detection of the parasite genome and assessement of its level.

[Detection of Toxoplasma gondii DNA by PCR in mother's blood, amniotic fluid and child's blood in selected cases of pathological pregnancy]

Prenatal screening of Toxoplasma gondii infection is controversial. The diagnosis is based on serological tests detecting IgM and IgG antibodies against T. gondii, but interpretation of these tests results is often confusing. It is commonly made retrospectively when serological screening indicates a possibility of recent infection. Most women have antibodies against T. gondii and serial testing is required only in monitoring of pregnancies where initial screening is negative. The introduction of Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) assay for detection of Toxoplasma gondii DNA in selected cases of pathologic pregnancies has permitted a more accurate and faster diagnosis of congenital toxoplasmosis infections.

[Levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-2 in sera of twins delivered prematurely and at term]

The concentration of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and interleukin-2 (IL-2) was estimated in first day of live in sera of premature (n = 8 pair) and in term delivered twins (n = 12 pair). One of premature delivered newborns was born vaginally 48 hours after first twin. Concentrations of TNF-alpha were approximately 4-times higher in sera of premature delivered in comparison to term delivered twins and a highest, more than 5-times higher level, was detected in serum of premature newborn born a 48 hours after first twin. Concentrations of IL-2 in sera of premature delivered were approximately 2.5-times higher than in term delivered twins and not significantly variations were observed in delayed delivered twin.

[The influence of infertility treatment and assisted reproduction techniques on multiple pregnancy rates]

It has to be remembered that pregnancies resulting from assisted reproductive technologies are more complicated that spontaneous pregnancies. There are higher rates of spontaneous abortions, ectopic, and multiple pregnancies. This work summarizes the latest year's experiences from the best world's clinics with multifetal pregnancy incidence in assisted reproductive technologies programs.

[Usefulness of quantitative assessment of Toxoplasma gondii genome using PCR-TaqMan in amniotic fluid, maternal and neonatal blood in selected complications in pregnancy]

Routine serological diagnosis of Toxoplasmosis provides high sensitivity, but not high specificity. The high sensitivity combined with high specificity offered by PCR-TaqMan as well as the degree of infection led us to investigate the presence and levels of Toxoplasma gondii genome in amniotic fluid, maternal and neonatal blood in cases of pregnancy where infection with this agent was suspected.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Samples of amniotic fluid and blood were taken from 28 women between the 16th and 40th week of gestational age. Postnatal blood samples were also taken from their infants. Included in the study group were women with IUGR, PROM, preterm delivery imminent, Toxoplasmosis in previous pregnancies, raised IgG or IgM anti-Toxoplasma antibody titers and with amniotic fluid disturbances (oligohydramnios and polyhydramnios). Presence and levels of Toxoplasma genome was investigated using PCR-TaqMan. PCR products were detected by electrophoresis on polyacrylamide gel.

RESULTS

Toxoplasma gondii genome was detected in blood from 13 women, 3 newborns and in amniotic fluid from one other women. Toxoplasma genome was detected in blood from one newborn, but was not detected in sample from its mother.

CONCLUSIONS

The PCR-TaqMan test is highly sensitive and specific method allowing detection of the parasite genome and assessment of its level. Limitations of this method are its relatively high cost and poor access to ABI PRISM 7700 (TaqMan) sequence detector. The PCR TaqMan is useful in cases, where serological tests for the presence of infections are ambiguous.