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Precisely defined protein aggregates, as exemplified by crystals, have applications in functional materials. Consequently, engineered protein assembly is a rapidly growing field. Anionic calix[n]arenes are useful scaffolds that can mold to cationic proteins and induce oligomerization and assembly. Here, we describe protein-calixarene composites obtained via cocrystallization of commercially available sulfonato-calix[8]arene ( sclx 8 ) with the symmetric and "neutral" protein RSL. Cocrystallization occurred across a wide range of conditions and protein charge states, from pH 2.2-9.5, resulting in three crystal forms. Cationization of the protein surface at pH ∼ 4 drives calixarene complexation and yielded two types of porous frameworks with pore diameters >3 nm. Both types of framework provide evidence of protein encapsulation by the calixarene. Calixarene-masked proteins act as nodes within the frameworks, displaying octahedral-type coordination in one case. The other framework formed millimeter-scale crystals within hours, without the need for precipitants or specialized equipment. NMR experiments revealed macrocycle - modulated side chain p K a values and suggested a mechanism for pH-triggered assembly. The same low pH framework was generated at high pH with a permanently cationic arginine-enriched RSL variant. Finally, in addition to protein framework fabrication, sclx 8 enables de novo structure determination.

We have observed two cases of aplastic anaemia diagnosed during the second trimester of pregnancy. In both patients a cesarean section was performed (in 32 and 37 week of gestation). During the course of pregnancy the patients received transfusions of erythrocytes and platelets. In one case high doses of methylprednisolone were administered. The same patient was given immunoglobulins IV prior to the delivery and the number of platelets increased to 100 x 10(9)/L. One baby had respiratory distress syndrome and died 3 months after birth. The second baby is 9 months old now and is in good health. Haematological improvement did not occur post partum and immunosuppressive treatment with antithymocyte globulin and cyclosporine was performed in both patients. Despite of that remissions did not occur and one patient died 7 months after delivery. The second patient still has haematological problems and is red cell and platelet transfusion dependent. We discuss the pathogenetic aspects of aplastic anaemia occurring during pregnancy, as well as the therapeutic problems before and after delivery.

Eight cases of the thrombocytopenic thrombosis are presented. Etiological factors, prognosis, and actual therapy are discussed. An emphasis is on the significance of freshly frozen plasma administration in the treatment of this disease.

LTABP regimen was applied to 18 patients in IIB and IV stage of malignant lymphogranulomatosis resistant to MOPP. The obtained results were compared with historical control group of 18 patients with similar stage of the disease treated according to ABVD regimen. In both regimens courses were repeated every 28 days or more rarely, when leucopenia and thrombocytopenia prolonged. Only patients who had received at least 3 courses were analysed. In the LTABP group the complete remission was obtained in 10 cases (55%) while partial remission in 6 (33%). In the group treated with ABVD complete remission was obtained in 4 cases (22%) and partial in 9 cases (50%). In the LTABP group 11 patients are still alive and remain in complete remission, while in ABVD group--4 patients. The most frequent side effects in both groups included leucopenia, thrombocytopenia and symptoms of gastrointestinal intolerance. The LTABP regiment allows to obtain higher percentage of the complete remission than ABVD.