Pentatricopeptide Motifs in the N-Terminal Extension Domain of Yeast Mitochondrial RNA Polymerase Rpo41p Are Not Essential for Its Function.

The core mitochondrial RNA polymerase is a single-subunit enzyme that in yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae is encoded by the nuclear RPO41 gene. It is an evolutionary descendant of the bacteriophage RNA polymerases, but it includes an additional unconserved N-terminal extension (NTE) domain that is unique to the organellar enzymes. This domain mediates interactions between the polymerase and accessory regulatory factors, such as yeast Sls1p and Nam1p. Previous studies demonstrated that deletion of the entire NTE domain results only in a temperature-dependent respiratory deficiency. Several sequences related to the pentatricopeptide (PPR) motifs were identified in silico in Rpo41p, three of which are located in the NTE domain. PPR repeat proteins are a large family of organellar RNA-binding factors, mostly involved in posttranscriptional gene expression mechanisms. To study their function, we analyzed the phenotype of strains bearing Rpo41p variants where each of these motifs was deleted. We found that deletion of any of the three PPR motifs in the NTE domain does not affect respiratory growth at normal temperature, and it results in a moderate decrease in mtDNA stability. Steady-state levels of COX1 and COX2 mRNAs are also moderately affected. Only the deletion of the second motif results in a partial respiratory deficiency, manifested only at elevated temperature. Our results thus indicate that the PPR motifs do not play an essential role in the function of the NTE domain of the mitochondrial RNA polymerase.

High frequency ultrasonography: a complementary diagnostic method in evaluation of primary cutaneous melanoma.

AIM: The aim of our study was to assess the usefulness of high frequency ultrasonography in the diagnosis of melanoma. METHODS: We examined 84 patients with suspicious melanocytic skin lesions, including 19 cases of melanoma. In vivo high-resolution ultrasonography (30 MHz) was performed prior to excision. RESULTS: In ultrasound scans early melanomas presented as flat oval or fusiform shaped structures and were clearly demarcated, while advanced melanomas were characterized by a roundish shape with less distinct borders. The ultrasonographic thickness of in situ melanomas ranged from 0.02 to 0.85 mm. In the case of invasive tumors, the mean thickness evaluated by high frequency ultrasonography was 10.7% higher compared to the Breslow Score (1.44±0.8 mm and 1.3±0.88 mm, respectively). In all melanomas of Breslow Score of 1 mm or more ultrasound also indicated a Breslow Score of 1 mm or more. CONCLUSION: High frequency ultrasound examination has limited value in differential diagnosis of melanoma, but it gives a clear picture of the size and depth of the tumor. The method should be used as a complementary method (after dermoscopy and, where applicable, reflectance confocal microscopy) in preoperative evaluation of the tumor. In some cases of locally advanced melanoma, ultrasound examination may allow to reduce the number of surgical procedures and favor the decision of a one-time surgical treatment (removal of primary tumor and sentinel lymph node biopsy at the same time).

Reaction of the human granulocyte system in successfully treated bacterial bronchopneumonia.

The behaviour of peripheral blood granulocyte pools, nitroblue tetrazolium reduction by granulocytes, migration of granulocytes out of skin windows, serum muramidase activity and bone marrow reserve of granulocytes during uncomplicated bronchopneumonia were studied. The time course of changes in these parameters during infection was established, and suggests maximal changes on day 2 of infection with gradual regression until 30 days after the disease onset, when they disappear.

Allergen-specific IgG-4 in patients with atopic diseases of the respiratory tract.

Serum levels of total IgE, allergen-specific IgE (asIgE) and allergen-specific IgG-4 (asIgG-4) were measured in 194 patients in whom atopic disease of respiratory tract was suspected. The patients were divided into 8 groups based on the results of skin testing and sera levels of IgE and asIgE. Increase of the serum asIgG-4 level was observed in only 26 cases (13%), and occurred exclusively in patients with positive skin reactions to allergen(s) accompanied by increased serum levels of asIgE. In contrast, no significant elevation of serum asIgG-4 was found in non-atopic patients and in patients in whom skin testing and serologic evaluation did not yield conclusive results. These results argue against involvement of asIgG-4 antibodies in the pathogenesis of atopic diseases and against their function as sensitizer of target cell, analogous to the function of asIgE. In the present study elevated level of serum asIgG-4 was noted predominantly in asthmatic patients previously subjected to specific desensitization, that is to repeated exposure to antigen (allergen), which could induce specific antibody response. It is in agreement with the notion, that the appearance of asIgG-4 antibodies in sera of the patients under study is a consequence of the specific immunization, and not of atopy.

High serum levels of allergen specific IgG-4 (asIgG-4) for common food allergens in healthy blood donors.

High serum levels of asIgG-4 against common food allergens are found in many patients with symptoms suggesting food allergy. The same patients are frequently negative for allergen specific IgE (asIgE) against the same allergens. These data were frequently interpreted as suggestive of a role of asIgG-4 in food allergy. In order to evaluate this hypothesis we tested serum levels of asIgG-4 against food allergens in young blood donors without any signs or history of food allergy. Fifty young healthy male donors were evaluated. The serum levels of IgE, and asIgE and IgG-4 against 14 common food allergens were determined. The studies were carried out using commercially available 3M Diagnostics Systems kits. AsIgG-4 against food allergens were found in sera of 92% blood donors, and in 62% of these healthy persons the levels of asIgG-4 were higher than 10.0 micrograms/ml. In a small proportion of patients, high serum levels of IgE and asIgE against the same food and/or inhalant allergens were found. Common occurrence of asIgG-4 against food allergens in healthy persons (without any symptoms which could suggest allergy or food intolerance) argues against the possible participation of these antibodies in the pathogenesis of food allergy. It is possible that their occurrence is the result of immunization against food antigens (allergens). It remains to be resolved whether the presence of these antibodies represents an epiphenomenon or may have some other biological role.

[Preliminary estimation of results of high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin in severe steroid-dependent adult asthma]. / Wstepna ocena wyników leczenia ciezkich postaci steroidozaleznej astmy oskrzelowej duzymi dawkami immunoglobulin ludzkich.

The aim of this study was to estimate efficacy and safety the high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin's (IVIG) in severe steroid-dependent adult asthma. The study group consisted of 10 asthmatic patients aged 18-74 (in an average 53 +/- 15) who received 6 months infusions therapy (7 doses). Each IVIG dose was 2 g/kg/month of body mass. In treatment monitoring the following parameters were used: asthma score, drugs (systemic and inhaled corticosteroids, beta 2-mimetic) use, daily PEF and monthly FEV1. Preliminary estimation of the obtained results shows the reduction of systemic corticosteroids doses and simultaneous improvement of asthma score and FEV1 as well as the decrease of asthma aggravation and emergency need among examined patients. Basing on this experience in high-dose IVIG treatment of patients with severe steroid-dependent asthma one could conclude about the safety and effectiveness of this method, particularly about its influence on the reduction of corticosteroids doses necessary for asthma control. The short time of observation does not allow to estimate the persistence of therapeutic effect after finish of this therapy. However, in some patients the recovery persisted for 6 months after the ending of IVIG infusions.

[Seasonal changes in various immunological parameters in patients with hay fever]. / Sezonowe zmiany niektórych parametrów immunologicznych u chorych z pylkowica.

In 25 subjects with pollinosis the following parameters were assessed three times annually (early spring, pollen seasons, autumn): serum IgE levels and allergen specific IgE (asIgE), T lymphocyte subpopulation in peripheral blood. In selected patients allergen specific IgG-4 levels were calculated. All serum parameters were assessed using the FAST enzymatic methods (3M Diagnostic Systems). Lymphocyte subpopulations were assessed using the monoclonal antibodies (Ortho Diagnostic System). During the pollen seasons a statistically significant increase of serum IgE, asIgE and T suppressor cells was found. The CD4/CD8 ratio during this period was decreased, caused by stable level of T helper cells. In the 4 patients the levels of asIgG-4 did not change although the initial levels were elevated.

[Histamine inhalation test in patients with specific bronchial hyperreactivity]. / Wziewny test z histamina u chorych ze swoista nadreaktywnoscia oskrzeli.

In 46 patients with a clinical suspicion of bronchial hyperreactivity tests of non-and specific bronchial hyperreactivity with the sensitizing allergen were carried out. The results were compared with the results of other allergological tests (skin prick tests, IgE and allergen specific IgE serum levels). The results of this study demonstrate the importance of duration, character and concentration of allergen exposition on formation of specific bronchial hyperreactivity. Non-specific and specific bronchial hyperreactivity demonstrates tissue dependent variations, this being seen especially in seasonal allergens. The authors have also shown a relation between both types of hyperreactivity and the results of other allergological tests.

[Occupational penicillin allergy as an example of chronic recurring anaphylaxis]. / Alergia zawodowa na penicyline jako przyklad przewleklej nawracajacej anafilaksji.

A case of anaphylactic shock which appeared in a nurse working at surgery room for many years, was described. The nurse was examined due to the anaphylactic attack at work (paroxysmal, idiopathic anaphylaxis). Among many factors the first of all occupational ones (exposure to disinfectants, latex and penicillin) were taken into consideration. Two minutes after the intradermal application of 2 units of crystalline penicillin the symptoms of anaphylaxis (including the shock) occurred. The problems of penicillin allergy in the aspect of skin tests, which make use of this antibiotic, were also described in the paper.

[Complications in the respiratory tract from measles]. / Powiklania ze strony ukladu oddechowego w przebiegu odry.

In the study and incidence of measles complications in the respiratory tract was analyzed in patients hospitalized in the Department of Infectious Diseases CSK WAM in 1972-1992 because of measles. In this period the (equal?) epidemiology of disease was observed in 1989/1990. In 17% hospitalized patients pharyngitis and/or pneumonia were observed as a typical complications of measles. High percentage of complications without consequences was probably connected with virus mechanism of infection.

[Does the moment of birth influence future atopic respiratory diseases? I. Statistical analysis]. / Czy moment urodzenia ma znaczenie dla ujawnienia sie chorób atopowych ukladu oddechowego? I. Zaleznosci statystyczne.

In order to define the possible role of the time of birth on future presentation of atopic respiratory disorders an analysis of birth rates was studied according to time of birth in the following groups: 111 patients with pollinosis 145 patients non-seasonal allergic respiratory disorders, 117 patients with non-atopic respiratory disorders and 291 healthy volunteers Clinical diagnosis of atopic respiratory disease was based on the presence of conjunctivitis and/or mucosal inflammation and/or bronchial asthma. Confirmation of atopic etiology of the disorders was based on results of skin prick tests with common allergens and/or of allergen specific IgE levels. It was demonstrated that patients with respiratory disorders are born most often in the second quarter of the year. Patients with non-seasonal allergic disorders were born usually in the second and third quarter of the year. Patients that were born in the first quarter of the year developed atopic disorders less frequently.

[Does the moment of birth have any significance on recognition of atopic diseases of the respiratory system? II. Incidence of atopic diseases in relation to birth date of children from families with increased atopic diathesis]. / Czy moment urodzenia ma znaczenie dla ujawnienia sie chorób atopowych ukladu oddechowego? II. Czestosc wystepowania chorób atopowych oraz zaleznosc od momentu urodzenia wsród dzieci w rodzinach obciazonych skaza atopowa.

The aim of this study was to analyze the birth rates in specific quarters of the year in families with a history of atopic diathesis. One hundred families with atopic diathesis with at least two children older than 16 years were studied. The diagnosis of its atopic etiology and demonstration of the specific allergen were all based on results of a questionnaire, physical examination, results of skin tests and serum levels of allergen specific IgE. In the selected 100 families an analysis of birth rates of 251 children was carried out in each quarter of the year and the effect of this on first atopy symptoms was searched for. It was demonstrated that in these families more children were born with atopy (57%) than without. More than half of the children were sensitive to grass pollens and perennial allergens, and only 20% to the perennial allergens. Most children were born during the second quarter of the year. In this group atopy was four fold more often seen. The results demonstrate that the birth date of children from atopic families is a risk factor for atopy. This implies that family planning should be added to the list of secondary prophylactic measures of atopic diseases.

[Cytologic, biochemical and immunologic parameters of pleural effusions. I. Criteria for differentiating transudates and exudates]. / Parametry cytologiczne, biochemiczne i immunologiczne plynów oplucnowych. I. Kryteria róznicujace przesieki i wysieki oplucnowe.

In 158 patients with pleural effusions the authors assessed 7 cytological, 26 biochemical and 6 immunological parameters in the pleural fluid. Using Light's criteria in 22 patients the fluid was a transudate, in 136 an exudate. The differences between the mean values of studied parameters were analysed. Basing on this the most characteristic cut of values were calculated. Each parameter was calculated for its sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic accuracy in differentiating the nature of the pleural fluid. The authors found the cytological parameters and protein levels in pleural fluid differentiate best exudates from transudates.

[Cytological, biochemical and immunologic parameters of pleural effusions. Presentation of differences in relation to the nature of the effusion]. / Parametry cytologiczne, biochemiczne i immunologiczne plynów oplucnowych. II. Wystepowanie róznic w zaleznosci od rodzaju wysieku.

In 96 patients with pleural exudates of known origin the authors assessed different cytological, biochemical and immunological parameters in the fluid and serum. In 44 patients the pleural effusions were malignant, in 26 tuberculosis, in 17 bacterial and 9 of viral nature. Statistical analysis was carried on mean values of studied parameters. The results indicate that only bacterial effusions differ significantly from the other pleural effusions. In effusions of malignant, tuberculous and viral nature the studied parameters did not differ significantly and cannot be used as differentiating criteria.

[Clinical evaluation of procaterol and salbutamol in patients with bronchial asthma]. / Kliniczna ocena prokaterolu i salbutamolu u chorych na astme oskrzelowa.

When the beta-2-selectivity of beta-agonists is assessed in man it is always considerably less than would be expected from studies on isolated tissues. That was a reason why this study was taken. As we know procaterol has been included into group of beta-2-selective non-catecholamines with a reasonably long duration of action. We performed clinical evaluation of procaterol and salbutamol on 24 patients with bronchial asthma. Procaterol was administered per os (tabl. a 50 micrograms twice daily) during 4 weeks, and next salbutamol was replaced above mentioned (tabl. a 8 mg twice daily) also during 4 weeks. Clinical symptoms and spirometric values were analyzed. Obtained results indicated that procaterol and salbutamol showed a similar potency in spirometric examination in patients with bronchial asthma. Observed side effects after procaterol were less often than after salbutamol.

[Activity of natural killer cells (NK) in patients with atopic diseases of the respiratory system]. / Aktywnosc komórek NK u chorych z chorobami atopowymi ukladu oddechowego.

NK cells are one of the crucial elements of natural cellular immunity mechanisms in situations when specific mechanisms are not altered. The aim of this study was to study activity of such cells in atopic respiratory diseases. The study was carried out in 52 atopic patients; 37 had atopic respiratory diseases, 15 atopic dermatitis. Control consisted of 28 healthy subjects without a history of atopy. Effector lymphocytes were recovered after centrifugation on the Ficoll/Uropolin gradient from venous blood. The activity of NK cells was determined using the cytotoxic test studying the level of emitted 51Cr from a standard K562 cell line. The authors have shown that the activity of NK cells is increased but this does not correlate with the level of IgE. This was seen mostly in patients with atopic respiratory diseases. In subjects with atopic dermatitis the activity of NK cells was similar to the seen in control subjects.

[Use of thermographic methods for estimation of skin prick test results. II. Evaluation of skin prick test results with histamine solutions of different concentration using liquid crystal mixtures]. / Zastosowanie metod termograficznych do oceny wyników punktowych testów skórnych. II. Ocena wyników punktowych testów skórnych z roztworami histaminy o róznych stezeniach przy uzyciu mieszanin cieklokrystalicznych.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the usefulness of liquid crystal thermography in interpretation of skin prick tests with selected allergens and different solutions of histamine. The study group consisted of 35 young adults with indications for skin prick tests, and in whom skin tests with different solutions of histamine were also carried out (10 mg of histamine per 1 ml diluted to a concentration of 1:1, 1:10, 1:100). The skin reaction was assessed visually after 15 minutes, measuring flare and wheal diameter and utilizing the liquid crystal thermographic method--assessing the diameter of each colour green, blue, violet. For statistical purposes the area was also calculated. A correlation of each area was performed with the wheal and flare diameter. The area of the skin reaction was largest for both methods using the undiluted solution of histamine, the smallest using the 1:100 dilution. The liquid crystal thermographic method showed larger areas of skin lesions than those using only the visual method by analyzing the size of the wheal and flare. Due to this fact skin tests should be carried out at lest 9 cm apart from each other. The largest correlation was found between diameter of the flare and area of blue colour of the liquid crystal thermographic method (registering the temperature of 34.3 degrees C-36.3 degrees C). Using the thermographic method a joint temperature analysis of the wheal and flare lesions are performed. The results of this study correspond with the earlier, preliminary studies showing the usefulness of the liquid crystal thermographic method in assessing skin reactions to different allergens and histamine solutions.

[Simultaneous coronary artery bypass grafting on the beating heart without assisted circulation and radical modified Patey mastectomy--case report]. / Jednoczasowa operacja rewaskularyzacji naczyn wiencowych na bijacym sercu bez krazenia pozaustrojowego i radykalnej zmodyfikowanej amputacji sutka sposobem Pateya--opis przypadku.

A case of 53-year-old female with unstable angina pectoris and primary right breast cancer is presented. Simultaneous operation including coronary artery bypass grafting and modified radical mastectomy was performed. On the beating heart coronary anastomoses were done without cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) through median sternotomy (OPCABG). Immediately after OPCABG cancer operation was performed under stable hemodynamics without any bleeding tendency. There were neither perioperative nor postoperative complications noticed. Three months after operation adjuvant local radiotherapy was started. Concomitant surgical treatment seems to be safe and beneficial in carefully selected patients who have surgically correctable coronary artery disease and potentially curable breast cancer.

[Use of thermography methods for evaluating skin prick tests. I. Background temperature of area where skin prick tests are performed. Optimal color scale of temperature differences registered by liquid crystals and conditions of their use]. / Zastosowanie metod termograficznych do oceny wyników punktowych testów skórnych. I. Tlo temperaturowe obszarów wykonywania punktowych testów skórnych, optymalne zakresy temperaturowej odpowiedzi barwnej mieszanin cieklokrystalicznych oraz warunki ich stosowania.

The aim of the study was to estimate the value in visualization of temperature gradients in assessing results of skin prick tests. The study group consisted of 10 patients suspected of having allergic diseases in whom skin prick tests were carried out. They were performed typically using the Bencard allergens kits. A positive control was performed using different solutions of histamine (10 mg/ml, 1 mg/ml, 0.1 mg/ml). The traditional method comprising of measurement of erythema, and whed was compared with visual thermography and open liquid crystal themography. The background temperature of typical areas chosen for skin prick tests were compared under condition of thermographic evaluation. The skin of the upper region of the back was chosen for uniform temperature background. Basing on the analysis of the background temperature and in areas of high reaction to histamine and allergens the temperature and in areas of high reaction to histamine and allergens the temperature gradient was calculated to be 2.2 degrees--2.5 degrees C. In order to visualize this gradient in composition of liquid crystals was made of a working range of 34.3 degrees--36.3 degrees C. Criteria for a correct thermographic evaluation of skin prick tests were established after studying the effect of manipulation of the area examined, local lowering of the temperature, use of cold solutions of allergens. Further studies are planned in order to assess the practical use of this thermographic analytical method.