[Fragmentation of fibronectin in cystic fibrosis]. / Fragmentation de la fibronectine dans la mucoviscidose.

Fibronectin (FN) plays an important role in mediating cell-matrix interactions and also as an opsonin in the phagocytosis of some microorganisms. Due to its domain structure FN is easily attacked by proteolytic enzymes and especially by elastases. Some of the fragments possess original properties as potentiation of viral transformation or proteolytic activity absent in the intact molecule. Cystic fibrosis is frequently accompanied by infection with protease generating microorganisms, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and immunoblotting revealed the presence of FN fragments in the plasma of patients with molecular weight between 30 and 100 kD. Purified plasma FN was rapidly hydrolyzed in fragments by the sputum of patients as well as by purified Pseudomonas elastase. The comparison of fragments detected in patients' plasma with those produced by in vitro proteolysis confirms the probability of in vivo fragmentation of FN in cystic fibrosis and suggests that several proteolytic enzymes, endogenous and of bacterial origin, might be involved.

[Resection of hemivertebrae. A review of seven cases (author's transl)]. / Technique sûre d'exérèse chirurgicale des hémi-vertèbres.

The technique used by the authors for removal of hemivertebrae is fully described. Two approaches are made, one posterior and one lateral at the same surgical session. This allows satisfactory control of roots, medulla and radicular vessels. The indications are described with reference to the age of the patient, the level of the lesion and the type of anomaly. It is concluded that it is a valuable procedure in progressive severe congenital scoliosis. 7 cases are reported without any neurological complication.

[Metrizamide radiculography with simplified dynamic test (author's transl)]. / Radiculographie au métrizamide avec épreuve dynamique simplifiée.

The development of metrizamide, a recent hydrosoluble contrast medium, has opened up the possibility of dynamic lumbosacral radicolugraphy, but in the opinion of the authors only the upright position is adequate to accentuate or reveal new pathological appearances. This was the case in 68 out of 100 consecutive radiculographies performed.