Interaction between VLDL and phosphatidylcholine liposomes generates new γ-LpE-like particles.

One of the subfractions of HDL involved in reverse cholesterol transport is γ-LpE. It has been assumed that, like preβ-LpAI, it can be generated during the interaction between phosphatidylcholine liposomes and lipoproteins and can contribute to more efficient cholesterol efflux after the introduction of liposomes to plasma. However, there has been no evidence concerning what the sources of these particles in plasma might be.

The standardization of urine particle counting in medical laboratories--a Polish experience with the EQA programme.

Background: Given the common problems with the standardization of urine particle counting methods and the great variability in the results obtained by Polish laboratories under international Labquality External Quality Assessment (EQA), we initiated educational recovery activities.

Methods: Detailed instructions on how to perform the standardized examination were sent to EQA participants, as was a questionnaire forms which enabled information to be gathered in respect to the procedures being applied. Laboratory results were grouped according to the method declared on the EQA 'Result' form or according to a manual examination procedure established on the basis of the questionnaire.

Estimation of oxidative stress markers in chronic kidney disease.

Changes mediated by oxidative stress are thought to be involved with atherosclerosis in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The purpose of this study was to analyze the markers of oxidative damage and the activity of antioxidative enzymes as well as the total antioxidant capability in patients with different stages of CKD, both conventionally treated and dialyzed. We evaluated the oxidative modification of lipids (by oxidized low-density lipoprotein and malonodialdehyde levels) and proteins (by advanced oxidation protein products level).