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Background: The anti-DFS70 autoantibodies are one of the most commonly and widely described agent of unknown clinical significance, frequently detected in healthy individuals. It is not known whether the DFS70 autoantibodies are protective or pathogenic. One of the factors suspected of inducing the formation of anti-DFS70 antibodies is increased oxidative stress. We evaluated the coexistence of anti-DFS70 antibodies with selected markers of oxidative stress and investigated whether these antibodies could be considered as indirect markers of oxidative stress. Methods: The intensity of oxidative stress was measured in all samples via indices of free-radical damage to lipids and proteins such as total oxidant status (TOS), concentrations of lipid hydroperoxides (LPH), lipofuscin (LPS), and malondialdehyde (MDA). The parameters of the non-enzymatic antioxidant system, such as total antioxidant status (TAS) and uric acid concentration (UA), were also measured, as well as the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD). Based on TOS and TAS values, the oxidative stress index (OSI) was calculated. All samples were also tested with indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and 357 samples were selected for direct monospecific anti DFS70 enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) testing. Results: The anti-DFS70 antibodies were confirmed by ELISA test in 21.29% of samples. Compared with anti-DFS70 negative samples we observed 23% lower concentration of LPH ( P = .038) and 11% lower concentration of UA ( P = .005). TOS was 20% lower ( P = .014). The activity of SOD was up to 5% higher ( P = .037). The Pearson correlation showed weak negative correlation for LPH, UA, and TOS and a weak positive correlation for SOD activity. Conclusion: In samples positive for the anti-DFS70 antibody a decreased level of oxidative stress was observed, especially in the case of samples with a high antibody titer. Anti-DFS70 antibodies can be considered as an indirect marker of reduced oxidative stress or a marker indicating the recent intensification of antioxidant processes.

Background and aims: An inverse relationship between lipid levels and atrial fibrillation (AF) has been suggested, but whether the association is upheld for all age groups remains unclear. The aim of the study was to examine associations between lipid levels and AF by age groups in a nationwide study in Poland. Methods: Multivariate Poisson regression models were used to estimate prevalence ratios (PRs) for AF by lipid levels. Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), non-HDL-C and LDL-C/HDL-C ratios were grouped into quartiles. Results: Of the 13,724 participants, 5.2% (n = 708) had AF. People with AF were older with more comorbidities, but lower lipid levels (all p < 0.05). The prevalence of AF was inversely associated with LDL-C (Adjusted PR (95% Confidence Interval) highest versus lowest quartile: 0.60 (0.48, 0.75)), TC (0.61 (0.49, 0.75)) and non-HDL-C (0.63 (0.51, 0.78)). The prevalence of AF was inversely associated with HDL-C (0.58 (0.46, 0.74)), but this was not statistically significant for people aged 75 years and older. For the LDL-C/HDL-C ratio, the prevalence of AF was only inversely associated with higher levels for people aged 75 years and older (0.75 (0.61, 0.94)). There was no statistically significant difference in prevalence of AF by TG levels. Conclusions: The results suggest an inverse relationship between lipid levels and AF. The inverse association between higher HDL-C and AF was only significant for people aged

Results of morphological and tomographic (CT) studies of the skull that was found in the crypt of the Silesian Piasts in the St. Jadwiga church in Brzeg (Silesia, Poland) are presented and discussed here. The established date of burial of probably a 20–30 years old male was 16th–17th century. The analyzed skull showed premature obliteration of the major skull sutures. It resulted in the braincase deformation, similar to the forms found in oxycephaly and microcephaly. Tomographic analysis revealed gross pathology. Signs of increased intracranial pressure, basilar invagination and hypoplasia of the occipital bone were observed. Those results suggested the occurrence of the very rare Arnold-Chiari syndrome. Lesions found in the sella turcica indicated the development of pituitary macroadenoma, which resulted in the occurrence of discreet features of acromegaly in the facial bones. The studied skull was characterized by a significantly smaller size of the neurocranium (horizontal circumference 471 mm, cranial capacity ∼1080 ml) and strongly expressed brachycephaly (cranial index = 86.3), while its height remained within the range for non-deformed skulls. A narrow face, high eye-sockets and prognathism were also observed. Signs of alveolar process hypertrophy with rotation and displacement of the teeth were noted. The skull showed significant morphological differences compared to both normal and other pathological skulls such as those with pituitary gigantism, scaphocephaly and microcephaly.

The aim of this trail was to determine and compare the profiles of changes in progesterone (P4), 17-β-estradiol (E2), melatonin (MEL), prolactin (PRL) and free thyroxine (FT4) in the peripheral blood following induced estrus in and outside the natural breeding season in goats. Observations were made on Anglo-Nubian does in the autumn (n=12) and spring (n=12). Does were treated with intravaginal progestagen sponges (40 mg FGA) for 12 days, and 500 IU PMSG i.m. at sponge withdrawal whereafter blood samples were collected. Samples were collected from 24 to 68 h following sponge withdrawal and the occurrence of estrous symptoms was recorded. Estrus occurred in both groups (season) of animals. However, in autumn (breeding season) estrus occurred earlier and persisted longer than in spring (outside the breeding season). Also in autumn plasma concentration of progesterone (0.42±0.11 versus 0.27±0.08 ng/ml; P

of morphological and tomographic (CT) studies of the skull that was found in the crypt of the Silesian Piasts in the St. Jadwiga church in Brzeg (Silesia, Poland) are presented and discussed here. The established date of burial of probably a 20-30 years old male was 16th-17th century. The analyzed skull showed premature obliteration of the major skull sutures. It resulted in the braincase deformation, similar to the forms found in oxycephaly and microcephaly. Tomographic analysis revealed gross pathology. Signs of increased intracranial pressure, basilar invagination and hypoplasia of the occipital bone were observed. Those results suggested the occurrence of the very rare Arnold-Chiari syndrome. Lesions found in the sella turcica indicated the development of pituitary macroadenoma, which resulted in the occurrence of discreet features of acromegaly in the facial bones. The studied skull was characterized by a significantly smaller size of the neurocranium (horizontal circumference 471 mm, cranial capacity ∼ 1080 ml) and strongly expressed brachycephaly (cranial index=86.3), while its height remained within the range for non-deformed skulls. A narrow face, high eye-sockets and prognathism were also observed. Signs of alveolar process hypertrophy with rotation and displacement of the teeth were noted. The skull showed significant morphological differences compared to both normal and other pathological skulls such as those with pituitary gigantism, scaphocephaly and microcephaly.

The aim of the study was to present consecutive stages of the posterior petrosal approach (PPA). Eighteen simulations of PPA were performed on non-fixed human cadavers without any known pathologies in the head and neck. The consecutive stages of the procedure were documented with photographs and schemes. The starting point for PPA is a temporal craniotomy, suboccipital craniectomy and mastoidectomy with keeping the bony labyrinth intact. Approach to the middle part of the clivus is achieved by raise of the temporal lobe and section of the superior petrosal sinus and tentorium and by mobilization the sigmoid sinus. Posterior petrosal approach is a reproducible technique, which provides surgical penetration of the middle clivus and related regions. It reduces the operating distance and allows to limit the cerebellum and temporal lobe traction and to preserve the anatomic integrity of the brain stem and cranial nerves of the cerebellopontine angle.

This study was performed to determine the relationship between selenium (Se) content and Se-dependent glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity in blood and semen, and semen quality of boars at different age used in an artificial insemination (AI) station. Routine macroscopic and microscopic analyses of semen quality were accompanied by measurement of Se content and GSH-Px activity in blood and semen. The Se concentration in blood plasma, seminal fluid and spermatozoa was measured by fluorometric method, the GSH-Px activity by a method based on NADPH-coupled reaction. A total of 155 ejaculates and 58 blood samples were investigated. The results of this study showed that there was no direct relationship between the Se content and GSH-Px activity in blood plasma and semen, and semen quality of sexual matured boars. The mechanisms controlling Se content and GSH-Px activity in blood and semen seem to be independent. The age of boars as a differentiating factor for Se content and GSH-Px activity in blood and semen is possible. It is concluded that a determination of Se status and/or GSH-Px activity in organism before Se supplementation is indicated.

Promising results have been obtained using brachytherapy in the treatment of brain tumors. Between November 99 and August 2000, 28 patients with brain tumors (15 newly diagnosed gliomas, 11 recurrent gliomas, 2 metastases) underwent implantation of temporary iridium 192 sources with stereotactic technique. This group received external beam radiation therapy (45 Gy) following implantation. Patients were followed-up with CT scans every 3 months. Serious complications occurred in two patients (postradiation brain oedema). Median survival has not been assessed due to short follow-up period and small number of patients. Further clinical assessment is required especially long-term follow-up. Brachytherapy appears to be a useful technique for the treatment of selected brain tumors.

The authors report their own experience with percutaneous vertebroplasty, one of the so called--minimally invasive methods, used to treat a certain group of spinal lesions affecting the vertebral bodies. The paper contains a brief review of the current literature, basic problems, indications and operative technique. The authors remark, that insertion of the needle into the vertebral body gives an access for biopsy before cement injection. This procedure was realised in the case of diagnostic uncertainty. Technical details of transpedicular biopsy are described. The authors present 2 representative cases.a female with pathologic fracture of the Th7 vertebral body of osteoporotic origin.combination of biopsy and vertebroplasty by percutaneous transpedicular approach. Second case: a female with cancer metastasis in L1 vertebral body, vertebroplasty was performed to support the anterior spinal column. Needle insertion was controlled either by radiofluoroscopy or by CT. The authors confirm pain relief related to vertebroplasty.

The aim of the study was the evaluation of the clinical usefulness of transcranial Doppler ultrasonography /TDU/ in patients with vascular dementia. The study was carried out in a group of 69 patients divided into two groups: group i of 32 patients aged 45-78 years, mean age 58.4 years with two or more ischaemic foci on TDU and dementia symptoms. The cases in this group fulfilled the criteria of dementia according to DSM-IV, ICD 10, MMS scale and Hachinski ischaemic scale. In TDU the following parameters were analysed: maximal velocity /Vmax/, minimal velocity /Vd/, mean velocity /Vmean/ of blood flow in the middle cerebral arteries, pulsation index /PI/ and resistance index /RI/. In group II the patients were divided into three subgroups according to ICD-10 criteria and localization of ischaemic foci: with cortical, subcortical and mixed lesions. The following conclusion have been drawn: 1/ the parameters of TDU could serve for differentiation of patients with vascular dementia; 2/ the PI and RI parameters in TDU are most valuable for diagnosis establishing; 3/ the transcranial Doppler ultrasonography is insufficient for differential diagnosis of dementia.

Nucleus pulposus herniation is one of frequent causes in spinal pains. The necessity of undertaking of appropriate treatment, often surgical, requires early establishing of precise diagnosis. The traditional classification of herniations into central, centrolateral and lateral seems to be insufficiently precise, especially from the surgical point of view. For that purpose, the authors, following the classification of Volle et al., applied in their analysis the new classification into central and lateral nucleus pulposus herniae and discerning among the latter ones four types with strictly defined localisation: mediolateral, lateral with recess involvement, intervertebral foramen hernia, outside intervertebral foramen hernia. Seventy-two cases were analysed. Hernia was diagnosed by means of CT. Particular attention was given to the most external hernias, that is into and outside the intervertebral foramen. The more accurate method for the assessment of hernias and bone changes was in CT the Reconstruction in sagittal and frontal planes and also in oblique projections. The authors believe that the diagnosis of lateral nucleus pulposus hernias in low spinal area, particularly those with herniation into and outside the intervertebral foramen should be based on CT in appropriate reconstructions.

The antimicrobial activity of 8 selenoorganic compounds (3-benzisoselenazoles, 1-benzisoselenazolone oxide and 4-disaryl diselenides) was investigated. It was found that selenoorganic compounds from benzisoselenazolone group suppress growth of some fungi and bacteria. The growth of Saccharomyces cerevisiae sigma 127-8b and Candida albicans 258 strains was strongly inhibited by the 2-(4-chlorophenyl)-1,2-benzisoselenazol-3(2H)-one. Also Ebselen and 2-acetyl-1,2-benzisoselenazol-3(2H)-one caused strong inhibition of Saccharomyces cerevisiae sigma 127-8b growth but a lower effect was observed in assays with Candida sp. strains. Benzisoselenazolones were also found to have antibacterial activities. They significantly reduced the growth of Gram-negative Escherichia coli K-12 ROW and Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus 209P (Oxford) bacteria strains.

The authors present diagnostic problem in slowly growing brain gliomas. Two illustrative cases are presented. Both were characterized by scant clinical manifestations and long-term course of the illness before the operation. CT examinations repeated in both patients several times in the preoperative period of a few years disclosed unchanging hypodense areas in cerebral hemispheres. No progress in clinical status of the patients and CT imaging of the lesions were observed throughout years of observation (2 and 5 years, respectively). Rapid deterioration of neurological condition in both patients associated with enlargement of the lesions in CT allowed to establish strong suspicion of brain tumour which was confirmed by examination in each case. Histopathological examination revealed malignant gliomas in both cases. The cases confirmed once again the necessity of early MRI examination in patients with hypodense lesions of the brain found in CT. The authors believe that every hypodense area of the brain should be verified by MRI as soon as possible, regardless their size, progress and neurological status of the patient. Such as approach to the diagnosis of hypodense areas in the CT of the brain may prevent a delay in proper treatment as well as malignant transformation of primarily benign lesion.

Two week old chickens were treated once daily for 5 days with AE8--1-pyridyl-1,2-benzisoselenazol-3(2H)-one, AE22--bis-2-(N-phenyle-carboxamido) 1 pyridyl diselenide and AE31--bis(phenylo-diselenide with R3 = CONHC18H37). Their whole blood alone or blood mixed with thymus cells were used to generate graft versus host (GvH) reaction in 15 day old chicken embryos. The treatment of the chickens with the compounds stimulated the GvH reaction modifying activity of the donor cells as measured by increase of the spleen weight of the recipient chicken embryos. On the other hand, treatment with these compounds inhibited the IgG or IgM production in chickens immunized with human albumin.

It is presented that the newly synthesized mono- and disubstituted 2,5-dimercapto-1,3,4-thiodiazole derivatives exert immunotropic activity. This effect was evaluated by measuring plaque forming cell number, circulating immunoglobulins level, autologous rosette number, mitogenic activity and by performing popliteal lymph node assay. It is shown that intensity of immunotropic activity depends on chemical structure: mono-substituted derivatives had a strong suppressive effect, disubstituted compounds showed the variable activity. One compound of this group exerted a stimulatory effect. The tested compounds were active in popliteal lymph node assay and had no mitogenic activity.

We have investigated the immunotropic effects of 23 seleno-organic compounds (8 benzisoselenazolones, 3 benzisoselenazolone oxides and 12 organic diselenides). All of the compounds increased the rosette formation of sheep red blood cells (SRBC) with spleen cells obtained from thymectomized C53BL/6 mice and incubated in vitro in the presence of imuran. Furthermore, 16 of the compounds were also assayed in vitro in the hydrocortisone test performed with C57BL/6 mouse thymocytes. It was found that all of them significantly protected the cells against hydrocortisone induced cytotoxicity. Also in the Jerne's assay, performed in 129Ao/Boy mice pretreated in vivo with 3 selected compounds 5 days before immunization with SRBC, the stimulation of plaque forming cells (PFC) was observed. Only one compound (AE22, an analog of piroxicam) was found to be inhibitory in this assay. In contrast, in the graft versus host (GvH) assay performed in hybrid mice the donor lymphoid cells obtained from C57BL/6 mice pretreated with 9 selected seleno-organic compounds, suppressed the GvH reaction in the recipient hybrid mice. Thus, in all of the immunotropic assays except the GvH reaction in adult mice, the seleno-organic compounds were found to have immunostimulating activities.

The results demonstrated immunotropic activity of seeds extracts and fractions from Lupinus angustifolius and Lupinus albus. Plaque forming cells (PFC) number to SRBC (sheep red blood cells) were elevated by an extract from Lupinus angustifolius and lowered by extracts from Lupinus albus. All preparations obtained from Lupinus angustifolius reduced the number of rosette forming cells (E-RFC). These preparations suppressed also the intensity of graft versus host reaction (GVHR) in case when the donors were treated. Lupinus albus extract suppressed GVH reaction when recipients were treated. Lupin extracts stimulated draining popliteal lymph nodes in PLN assay.

Graft versus host reaction was induced by the blood of chickens previously transferred by the bursa and thymus cells. These bursa and thymus cells were taken from bursectomized or thymectomized chicken. It was occurred that graft versus host reaction was influenced by transfer of bursa and thymus cell. IgG level was affected by the transfer of these cells too.

Bursocytes and thymocytes of chickens previously subjected to surgical removal of thymus or bursa Fabrici or to rtg irradiation, were analyzed for the level of cyclic nucleotides. As observed, regardless of the origin of the lymphocytes cells, cAMP was quantitatively prevailing; cGMP amount was smaller in most cases. As for the absolute values, the level of cyclic nucleotides was highest in bursocytes and lowest in peripheral blood lymphocytes (control). Biological consequences of these relations were discussed.

The influence of irradiation or surgical removal of one of two central lymphatic organs (thymus, bursa) on cAMP and cGMP intracellular concentration in chicken lymphocytes was studied. Results revealed drastic changes mainly in cAMP concentration in thymectomized or bursectomized chickens. Possible consequences of the above changes on the maturation, differentiation and proliferation of lymphocytes were discussed.

The modulation of the number of Russel bodies-containing plasma cells in the Harderian gland under different experimentally induced immune conditions is reported. The findings support the conception of an immunologic function of the Harderian gland which is similar to the function of the thymus on the one hand, and to the function of the bursa of Fabricius on the other.

The activity of piroxicam to the selected cellular immune reactions was studied. The drug was shown to modulate these processes, with the prevailing role of suppressive component. It was found that the mechanism of its effect partly consists in an interference in the activity of suppressor cells and mediators of immunological reactions.

An observation was made that imuthiol exerts inhibitory effect on hemolysins forming cells (PFC) and on NK cells activity. It also reduces the number of T lymphocytes (in vitro), increases the activity of interleukin-1 and of the lymph node permeability factor. Well recognized is also its protective effect on thymocytes against hydrocortisone. Imuthiol was found to enhance rosette formation and to stimulate stem cells and partly suppressor cells. It reduces the level of cAMP. Its effect on the circulatory system is negligible.

Concentration of haptoglobin (Hpc) in serum of chickens with inflammation and allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) was determined. Chickens with aseptic inflammatory state revealed 2.5 times higher concentration of Hpc while in the course of EAE only small increase was observed. Administration of immunomodulator--isoprinosine, resulted in elevation of Hpc level as compared to nontreated chickens.

The authors defined the morbidity index of late epilepsy (MI) on the ground of notified cases in the population aged over 20 years (with first seizure past the age of 20 years) comprising 228273 individuals (125453 living in towns and 102820 living in villages) in the years 1979-1980. The index was calculated per 1000 of the population. The general index was 2.23 (males--2.77; females--1.72). The value of the index was highest in the age group 20-29 years (3.75) and 40-49 years (2.58) in males, and in females this value was also at its peaks in these age groups (2.63 and 1.93, respectively). In the whole population the index had also two peaks in these age groups: 3.21 and 2.55 respectively. In the urban population the general index was 2.33 (2.77 in males and 1,91 in females) being again highest in the age groups 20-29 and 40-49 years. Similar peaks were found in these age groups in the urban male and female populations. In the rural population the general index was 2.11 (males 2.77, females 1.49) and the peaks were in the age groups 20-29 and 30-39 years. In males these peaks were in the age groups 20-29 and 40-49, and in females in the groups 20-29 and 30-39 years. The lowest index value was in the age group over 60 years in the whole population (1.22), in the urban population (1.62 and in the rural population (0.91). In further studies on epilepsy the method of active search for epilepsy cases with full clinical and epidemiological analysis is being used.

The immune response measured by the level of specific anti-myelin antibodies and inflammatory process indicator-haptoglobin, were studied in chickens immunized with myelin basic protein (MBP). The histopathological changes in lymphoid organs were also investigated. The occurrence of specific anti-myelin antibodies was shown in sera of immunized animals. High level of antibodies was found in IgG class. The concentration of anti-myelin antibodies in the remaining immunoglobulin classes showed different levels. High concentration of haptoglobin (up to 2 g/l) was regularly noted in the course of allergic encephalomyelitis. All the above parameters were also evaluated in the course of experimental therapy with thymus factor X (TFX). This preparation distinctly reduced haptoglobin level in serum and had only slight effect on humoral immunity. In the course of inflammatory process plasmatic cells stimulation in the spleen was observed microscopically: this was even enhanced by the thymus hormone. The lymphoid system did not undergo any significant changes. The Harder's gland did not seem to have any influence upon the induction or therapy of MBP-induced inflammation.

In a group of 1621 patients with vascular brain lesions (849 males, 772 females) the authors found seizures in 108 cases (56 males, 52 females): in 26 cases of subarachnoid haemorrhage (aneurysms), 6 cerebral haemorrhages, 24 cerebral arterial thromboses, 18 atherosclerosis of brain vessels, 13 cases of embolia, 4 cases of transient cerebral ischaemia, 4 cases of vertebrobasilar insufficiency, 4 cases of cerebrocardiac syndromes, 2 cases of cerebral form of the Winiwarter-Buerger disease and 1 cases each of cerebellar haemorrhage and aortic arch syndrome. In 8 cases family history of epilepsy was elicited. The authors suggest administration of anticonvulsants in justified cases.

The purpose of this paper was to develop a tableting technology of barbital buffer as a standard diluent easy in use for complement fixation test (CFT). As starting point, barbital (veronal) buffer after Alton et al. [1] was assumed. Among 4 solubilizers polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP 10 000) was chosen, which provided a good solubility of the barbital in distilled water at 20 degrees C and it affected favourably the complement activity (C'). PVP 10 000 added to the components of barbital buffer at an amount of 0.275 per 10 tablets, in the form of solution for granulation, provided the required physical properties of the tablets. As compared with the barbital buffer after Alton et al. [1], the tablets produced affected favourably C' activity, decreased the range of spontaneous haemocyte lysis, and they did not effect CFT titers of two anti-Brucella abortus standard sera as well as 77 sera of cattle infected with brucellosis under natural conditions. The described physical and biological properties of the barbital buffer tablets with PVP addition indicate their usability as diluent for CFT. A standard diluent used in the form of tablets in all Poland's laboratories should provide a better reproducibility of CFT results in diagnostic examinations towards brucellosis as well as other infectious diseases in men and animals.

In the course of allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) in chickens, azimexone suppressed the production of the specific IgM immunoglobulins. Moreover, it decreased the level of haptoglobin and sialic acid but stimulated the activity of antitrypsin. It was also observed to reduce the production of the plasmatic cells in the spleen. L-cysteine hydrazide hydrochloride decreased the level of sialic acid in EAE; intensified the activity of trypsin inhibitor and exerted no effect upon the level of antimyelin antibodies.

The effect of thymectomy performed on the day of hatching has been studied in chickens rendered tolerant by 100 mg of HSA injected also on the day of hatching. After challenge at the age of 6 and 9 weeks, no significant difference was observed between the group of tolerant chickens, in which the thymectomy was complete or incomplete, and the non-operated tolerant one. The delayed recovery from tolerance observed in mammals was not seen even in chickens in which thymus was removed completely and no thymic residue remained. The anti-HSA antibodies were even slightly higher in thymectomized birds than in the non-operated ones but the difference was statistically non-significant.

The studies concerned the effect of cyclophosphamide on immunological and biochemical indices of MBP-induced encephalomyelitis. Unlike isoprinosine, cyclophosphamide was observed to exert irregular effect. Contrary to the expected, the results obtained in some experimental systems show increased level of the parameters tested-IgG, antitrypsin and sialic acid. A suggestion has been put forward that the reason of the above phenomenon may be attributed not only to the type of drug applied but also to different course of treatment with regard to various affinity of the drug (different doses) to functionally different lymphocytes (suppressor, helper).

An attempt to establish the relation between morphological and biochemical indices determining the inflammatory state in brain after induction of allergic encephalomyelitis in chickens was taken up. Symptoms of encephalomyelitis were accompanied by the changes within T and B lymphocyte population and by distinct increase of activity of trypsin inhibitor and content of sialic acid in blood serum.

A differentiated time and temperature of incubation were used in the first CFT phase. It was found that the activity of complement fixation (C') decreased in the reaction medium. This was observed in the control system in which at 1 C'H50 hemolysis inhibition increase from 50 to 90% was found after 2 hr at 37 degrees C, after 8 hr at 20 degrees C and after 18 hr at 4 degrees C. Simultaneously, a double increase of the standard serum titre was obtained at 4 and 20 degrees C as compared with that at 37 degrees C. At stable concentration of the antigen and complement the effect of C' fixation was the strongest at 4 degrees C, slightly weaker at 20 degrees C and the weakest at 37 degrees C. The above dependence resulted from a different reaction distribution in the chessboard system at each temperature. In the order from the lowest to the highest antigen dilutions positive reactions were increasing and then subsequently expired at 4, 20 and 37 degrees C, forming an optimal antigen dilution typical for each temperature. In our own standard CFT technique a heat and short C' fixation (37 degrees C for 30 min) were chosen which provided the required reaction sensitivity and permitted to make mass diagnostic examinations. It was also shown that the temperature and time of initial incubation of the antigen-antibody complex had no influence on the effect of C' fixation by this complex. This is supported by joint introduction of the antigen and complement into sera.

Experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) in chickens of the inbred lines IC, CB, WB and (CBxIC)F1 hybrids was investigated. The IC line and (CBxIC)F1 hybrids gave the best reactions. In bursectomized chickens only slight changes in brain were observed. The intensity of EAE in thymectomized chickens was highly suppressed. Using the anti-T and anti-B sera it was shown that, the percentage of EAE of B lymphocytes was increased. Among the used several immunosuppressive drugs which generally decreased inflammatory reactions in brain the best results were observed with azathioprine and actinomycin D. Moreover, cyclophosphamide gave the worse results which was shown in the same experiments. The aim of our experiments was to define the role of thymus and bursa of Fabricius and peripheral B and T lymphocytes in the course of EAE. Moreover, the effect of immunosuppressive drugs on EAE was studied.

The purpose of this paper was to developed simple and accurate methods for standardization of the particular components of a hemolytic system and to choose optimal amounts of these components in CFT. On the basis of comparative studies and the data from literature the following procedure was chosen: 1. Sheep's blood was conserved with Alsever liquid and used after 5 days of stabilization. A 2% suspension of erythrocytes was standardized by centrifuging in calibrated test tubes at 1000 r for 10 min and spectrophotometrically, assuming the following criterion: the suspension of erythrocytes dissolved in distilled water at 1:10 ratio should show 0.500 extinction (E541), which corresponds to 5 X 10(8) erythrocytes in 1 cm3. 2. Lyophilized hemolysin was dissolved, conserved with glycerol and used after 5 days of stabilization. Hemolysin was titrated with 100% hemolysis in the presence of the excess of complement. The suspension of erythrocytes was sensitized with 5 units of hemolysin directly before using it. 3. Lyophilized complement (C) was dissolved, conserved with boric acid +K2SO4 containing liquid and used after 5 days of stabilization. Titration of C was done by 50% hemolysis; 3C'H50 was used in CFT. 4. A barbital buffer was used as diluent at pH 7.3-7.4, alternatively 0.85% NaCl with an addition of Ca and Mg at optimal concentration. The hemolytic system was incubated at 37 degrees C for 30 min.

It was observed that in the course of allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) in chickens. Isoprinosine reduced the production of the specific IgA and IgM antibodies against encephalic antigen. Its influence on IgG production was slight. It was also found that isoprinosine reduced the antitrypsine activity in EAE. Its effect upon the level of antibodies and biochemical indices of inflammation was particularly pronounced on days 28-35 after immunization, i.e. at the time of the most intensive microscopic inflammatory changes in the brain. Histological analysis revealed an inhibition of plasmatic cells reproduction in the spleens of chickens receiving isoprinosine. No effect of the drug on the GvH reaction in chickens was found.

The authors determined FDP levels in the cerebrospinal fluid by the method of Merskey in 214 neurological patients and found raised levels in 58.6% of cases (from 0.1 to 8.0 ug/ml, with normal value range 0-0.5 ug/ml). In the control group the FDP levels in the CSF were normal. No correlation was noted between the FDP levels in the CSF and in blood. Raised CSF FDP level was observed in exacerbations of multiple sclerosis, strokes especially of embolic origin, syringomyelia, bulbar form of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, epilepsy, migraine, lumbar disc lesions, polyneuropathy, parkinsonism, brain atrophy, after craniocerebral trauma, in Kleine-Levin syndrome. The authors are studying now the course of FDP changes in the CSF in various cases in the aspect of clinical-laboratory correlations.

Experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) was induced in chickens by injecting human myelin basic protein (MBP) in Freund's complete adjuvant (CFA). Antibodies of IgM, IgA and IgG class to MBP were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The ability of the blood from the experimental chickens to induce graft-versus-host (GvH) reaction was tested in chick embryos. Serum concentrations of sialic acid and antitrypsin were monitored. Substantial inflammatory infiltrations were found in various parts of the central nervous system of the animals injected with MBP, but not in the controls receiving plain CFA. Enlargement of the white pulp and plasmocytosis were found in the spleens of the EAE animals. In the course of the disease, anti-MBP IgM and IgA antibody levels strongly increased, while IgG antibodies remained unchanged. The GvH caused by the blood from EAE animals did not differ from that of control birds. The EAE group showed significantly higher antitrypsin concentration than the controls. The increase in sialic acid concentration was of equal magnitude in the EAE animals and in the CFA controls.

The authors studied 286 patients with epilepsy with disease onset past the age of 20 years (176 males, 110 females) from the urban and rural populations. In 57% of cases the aetiology of epilepsy was undetermined. Among the known aetiological factors head trauma accounted for 15.5% of cases, inflammatory processes in the central nervous system for 4.5%, alcoholism for 7%, vascular lesions for 6%, tumours for 5.2%, degenerative and atrophic changes for 1.5%. Over 40% of patients had had attacks for up to 15 years and over 18% for over 20 years. In 80% of cases grand mal seizures occurred, and in 33% of these cases more than 12 attacks occurred annually. Six cases of status epilepticus were observed with 2 deaths. The attacks were precipitated by menstruation, alcohol abuse, infection, stressed, television watching. Among the signs accompanying or following the seizures tongue biting and urination prevailed. Neurological signs were demonstrated in 21% of cases, encephalopathy in 65%, other psychic disturbances in 9.5%. Systematic treatment was received by 75% of the patients (over 80% in urban population), and therapy with multiple drugs was most frequent. Drug-resistant epilepsy was found in 34% of cases. The patients from the rural population had a lower educational level and had more children. About 70% of the patients were in employment.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Serological activity of swine IgM and IgG against Brucella abortus in RBPT was determined in relation to four other reactions used in Poland for diagnosing brucellosis standard agglutination test, complement fixation test, antiglobulin test, 2-mercaptoethanol test). Isolation of IgG was performed by the method of filtration on Sephadex gel G-200 of swine sera raised against Brucella abortus S19 by double immunization with suspension of killed bacteria. The presence of a certain Ig class in the fractions thus obtained was confirmed by immunoelectrophoresis and immunodiffusion tests. RBPT revealed the reaction of antibodies of IgM and IgG class which proves usability of this reaction diagnosis both early (IgM) and chronic (IgG) infection with brucellosis. Both classes of antibodies mentioned above were active also in SAT and CTT. Also the results obtained in AGT and MET were found interesting. In one of the sera, the absence of incomplete antibodies was observed, whereas positive reaction in antiglobulin test was found in its fractions containing IgG. This phenomenon was determined as concealment of incomplete agglutinins through higher level of complete antibodies in normal serum. In swine (the results were different from those obtained for cattle), apart from incomplete antibodies in IgG class, the presence of these agglutinins in IgM class was noted. On the other hand, the results obtained in MET proved that IgM antibodies of swine were not totally reduced when affected by 2-mercaptoethanol.

Different times and temperatures of the 1st phase incubation of the complement fixation test (CFT) were used. It was found that a similar decrease in complement (C') activity occurred after 2 h at 37 degrees C, after 8 h at 20 degrees C and after 18 h at 4 degrees C. Simultaneously, in the same periods a double increase in standard serum titre at 4 and 20 degrees C was noted in comparison with titre at 37 degrees C. This increase of sensitivity of the CFT at 4 and 20 degrees C appeared to be a simulating one and resulted from the different pattern of reaction in each temperature in the block titration of antigen. The positive reactions in the range from the lowest to the highest dilutions of antigen were appearing and increasing and then disappearing in sequence at 4, 20 and 37 degrees C, creating the typical C' fixation area for each temperature. Similar results were obtained in four different C' fixation techniques, most frequently used in diagnosis of animal brucellosis. On the basis of our own examination results and literature data the warm and short C' fixation (37 degrees C, 30 min) was chosen in the standard technique of the CFT used in routine diagnostic survey for animal brucellosis in Poland.

Allergic encephalomyelitis characterized by relapses and remissions was induced in chickens. The contents of M and G immunoglobulins in the serum was observed to increase at disease attacks and to decrease at its remissions. Similar correlation--though not so clear cut was noted with antitrypsin level. The usefulness of this model in pharmacotherapeutic investigations is discussed.