Effect of low uterine segment involvement on prognosis of early stage endometrial cancer

AIM

Our aim is to investigate the effect of uterine lower segment involvement on prognosis of early-stage endometrial cancer cases diagnosed and treated in our clinic.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The file records of 316 cases reviewed retrospectively.Only stage I (a and b, n=209) cases were investigated, because they were more homogeneous group.

RESULTS

The lymphovascular invasion rate was found to be higher in patients with stage Ia and uterine lower segment involvement (p < 0.001). Adjuvant treatment requirement was higher in patients with stage Ia and uterine lower segment involvement (p < 0.001). Among stage Ia cases, the recurrence rate between 1 and 3 years was found to be higher in cases with uterine lower segment involvement (p = 0.001). Among the stage Ib cases, lymphovascular invasion was found to be higher in cases with uterine lower segment involvement (p < 0.001). The recurrence rate between 1 and 3 years was found to be higher in stage Ib compared to Ia (p = 0.01). Uterine lower segment involvement was found to be associated with high lymphovascular invasion rate in all stage I cases (p < 0.001). It was determined that the need for adjuvant treatment was higher in cases with uterine lower segment involvement (p < 0.001). It was determined that the probability of recurrence between 1 and 3 years was higher in cases with uterine lower segment involvement (p = 0.007).

CONCLUSION

Uterine lower segment involvement is associated with increased lymphovascular invasion even in the early stages. It is an important risk factor for systemic spread such as lymphovascular invasion, myometrial invasion, and lymph node involvement.

Prediction of Intraperitoneal Adhesions in Repeated Cesarean Deliveries with Stria Gravidarum Scoring System: A Cross-sectional Study

BACKGROUND

The preoperative prediction of intraperitoneal adhesion (IPA) before repeated cesarean deliveries (CD), which are becoming more prevalent, is crucial for maternal health.

AIM

The aim of the study was to preoperatively predict IPA in repeated CD with the stria gravidarum (SG) scoring system.

METHODS

A total of 167 patients with at least one previous CD at or beyond 37 weeks of gestation were analyzed. Preoperative SG was calculated according to the Davey scoring system: 0-2 score were defined as mild SG (Group 1; n: 94, 56.2%), and 3-8 score were defined as severe SG (Group 2; n = 73, 43.8%). Preoperative previous cesarean incision features were evaluated according to the Vancouver scar scale. IPA was evaluated according to the Nair's and modified Nair's scoring systems.

RESULTS

Parity, younger age at first pregnancy, higher body mass index, number of previous CDs, rate of scar symptoms, Nair's and the modified Nair's scores were statistically significant in Group 2 (P = 0.01; P = 0.04; P = 0.007; P = 0.004; P < 0.001; P = 0.007; P = 0.02, respectively). Davey score ≥3 and Vancouver score ≥4.5 were determined as the cut-off value to predict IPA (P = 0.1 and 0.07, respectively). According to multivariate analysis, both Davey and Vancouver scores are independent factors in predicting IPA (P = 0.02 and 0.04, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Evaluating the SG score through the Davey score in women with a history of previous CD may assist in predicting IPA status before the planning of a subsequent surgery.

Exercise Position to Improve Synergy Between the Diaphragm and Pelvic Floor Muscles in Women With Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: A Cross Sectional Study

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the synergy between the diaphragm and pelvic floor muscles (PFM) according to different exercise positions in women with pelvic floor dysfunction. Our secondary aim was to determine the short-term effects of single-week pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) program on diaphragmatic function.

METHODS

The cross-sectional study included 64 women with pelvic floor dysfunction. The participants' diaphragm and abdominal muscle functions during voluntary PFM contraction and relaxation were assessed by surface electromyography and ultrasonography. The surface electromyography assessments were performed in supine (P1), crawling (P2) and sitting (P3) positions. A single week-PFMT was conducted on women who agreed to determine the short-term responses of the diaphragm function. The muscle functions according to exercise positions were compared with Friedman Analysis of Variance, and the short-term effects of single-week PFMT on diaphragm function was analyzed with Wilcoxon Signed-Ranks Test.

RESULTS

The diaphragm activity during voluntary PFM contraction was highest in P2 before and after single-week PFMT (P < .001). Positive significant correlations were found between the activities diaphragm and abdominal muscles in different exercise positions (P < .05). After single-week PFMT, diaphragm thickness increased (P = .030) in P1, but diaphragm activity did not change in all 3 exercise positions (P > .05).

CONCLUSION

The synergy between the diaphragm and PFM was greater in the crawling position in women with pelvic floor dysfunction. The abdominal muscles seemed to contribute to maintaining this synergy. Therefore, PFMT combined with diaphragmatic breathing exercises in the crawling position should be considered. In addition, single-week PFMT may positively affect diaphragm function in the short-term.

Virulence properties of Listeria monocytogenes isolated from meat and meat contact surfaces in a slaughterhouse

Listeria monocytogenes is a ubiquitous microorganism that is isolated from a variety of sources such as soil, water, decaying vegetation, sewage, animal feeds, silage, farm environments and food-processing environments. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, serogroups, biofilm formation, virulence factor genes, and genetic relationships of L. monocytogenes strains isolated from beef meat and meat contact surfaces obtained from a slaughterhouse in Burdur, Turkey. In this study, a total of 179 beef meat and meat contact surface samples were analyzed for the presence of L. monocytogenes by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Out of a total of 179 beef meat and meat contact surface samples, 83 (46.37%) were found to be contaminated with L. monocytogenes, with the highest incidence (53.01%) occurring in beef meat. In the present study, most of the isolated strains belonged to serogroups IIB and IVB (lineage I). The L. monocytogenes strain also contained monoA-B, prfA, plcA, plcB, mpl, hlyA, actA, gtcA, dltA, Fri, flaA, InlA, InlC, InlJ, and iap genes. Biofilm formation was not determined in the tested samples at pH 5.5 and different temperatures (4°C, 10°C, 25°C, and 37°C). However, strong biofilm formation was observed in 6.45% (2/31) of the strains at pH 7.0 after 48 h incubation at 37°C, and in 3.22% (1/31) of the strains at pH 7.0 after 48 h incubation at 4°C and 10°C. Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) results showed that L. monocytogenes isolates were clonally related, and cross-contamination was present. In addition, PFGE results also revealed that AscI had more distinguishing power than the ApaI restriction enzyme. These results indicate that L. monocytogenes detected from meat and meat contact surfaces in the slaughterhouse pose a potential risk to public health.

Is there a synergistic relationship between diaphragm and pelvic floor muscles in pregnant women?

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to examine whether there is a synergistic relationship between the diaphragm and pelvic floor muscles (PFM) in pregnant women.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Our study was carried out as a cross-sectional study in primigravid pregnants in the second and third trimesters. Superficial electromyography (EMG), 2D/3D ultrasonography (USG), pulmonary function test (PFT), PERFECT, maximum expiratory pressure (MEP) and inspiratory pressure (MIP) measurements were used to evaluate pelvic floor and diaphragm muscle functions during pregnancy. Mann-Whitney U test was used to show the change in the second and third trimesters, and Spearman correlation was used to determine the relationship.

RESULTS

No correlation was found between the EMG data of the PFM and diaphragm, or between the USG data of the PFM and diaphragm in all participants, in the second and third trimesters. In the third trimester of the study, diaphragmatic thickness and levator hiatal area (LHA) decreased and both diaphragm and PFM % MVC EMG parameters increased. In the third trimester, FVC, MIP, MEP decreased, and nonsignificant increase in FEV1, FEV1/FVC and peak ekspiratuar flow(PEF) were detected. A significant correlation was found between pelvic floor levator hiatal area USG and FEV1/FVC in both trimesters (r: 0,577p: 0,004).

CONCLUSION

There may be a synergistic relationship between the diaphragm and PFM in pregnant women, the relationship may weaken as pregnancy progresses, and there may be no coactivation relationship between the two muscles. In order to prevent the occurrence of pelvic floor dysfunction during pregnancy and to increase the effect of rehabilitation programs, the relationship between the diaphragm and the PFM should be determined and more studies should be conducted.

Is the function of the core muscles affected during pregnancy?

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

The aim of our study is to examine the changes in core muscle functions during pregnancy.

METHODS

Our study was carried out in 67 primigravida pregnant women. Superficial electromyography (EMG) and non-invasive 2D/3D ultrasonography (USG) were used to evaluate core muscle (diaphragm, transversus abdominus [TA], internal oblique [IO]-external oblique [EO] muscles, pelvic floor muscles, multifidus) function during pregnancy. Pelvic floor muscle strength was also measured by a digital palpation method (PERFECT system). USG was used to measure expected fetal weight and the diastasis recti (DR) distance. Mann-Whitney U test was used to show changes in trimesters in the core muscles, and Spearman correlation analysis was used to determine the relationship.

RESULTS

In the third trimester, an nonsignificant increase in EMG parameters was observed in all of the core muscles. Although a statistically significant decrease was observed in muscle thickness values measured by EO and IO USG in the third trimester, DR was found to increase at all levels (p < 0.005). When we evaluated both trimesters and all pregnant women together, no relationship was found between all core muscles and pelvic floor muscles in the data evaluated by EMG and USG. We found a negative correlation in USG values between fetal weight and IO and the upper part of the rectus abdominus muscle, and a positive correlation between the EMG data of the EO and rectus abdominus muscles.

CONCLUSIONS

In women, the coactivation relationship between the core muscles may disappear during pregnancy. As the trimesters progress during pregnancy, a decrease in thickness and an increase in muscle activity can be observed in the core muscles. Pregnant women can be given exercise training for core muscles for protection in both the prenatal and postnatal periods. But more research needs to be done.

Can pelvic floor muscle training positions be selected according to the functional status of pelvic floor muscles?

Background

Pelvic floor muscle (PFM) training varies according to the functional status of PFM. It is used to strengthen underactive PFM and relax overactive PFM.

Aim

This study aimed to determine the appropriate PFM training positions according to the functional status of the PFM in women with pelvic floor dysfunction.

Materials and Methods

Seventy-six women diagnosed with pelvic floor dysfunction were included. After the digital palpation, participants were divided into four groups according to the functional status of PFM: normal, overactive, underactive, and nonfunctional. Participants' PFM and abdominal muscle functions were assessed with superficial electromyography in three positions (modified butterfly pose-P1, modified child pose-P2, and modified deep squat with block pose-P3). Friedman's analysis of variance and the Kruskal-Wallis test were used to assess whether the function of the muscles differed according to the functional status of the PFM and training positions.

Results

Normal PFM maximally contracted and relaxed in P1, whereas nonfunctional PFM was in P3 (P > 0.05). Overactive and underactive PFM was most contracted in P2 (P > 0.05) and relaxed in P1 (P < 0.001). In each functional state of the PFM, all abdominal muscles were most relaxed in P1, while their most contracted positions varied (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

This study showed that the positions in which the PFM relaxes and contracts the most may vary according to the functional status of the PFM. Therefore, different PFM training positions may be preferred according to the functional status of the PFM in women with pelvic floor dysfunction. However, more study needs to be done in this subject.

Does multiple-component intensive pelvic floor muscle training decrease muscle fatigue and symptoms in women with urinary incontinence?

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

A multiple-component intensive pelvic floor muscle training (MCI-PFMT) protocol was developed as a neurophysiological-based rehabilitation model to improve neuroplasticity. This study aimed to investigate the effects of the MCI-PFMT protocol on muscle fatigue and symptoms in women with urinary incontinence.

METHODS

This randomized controlled trial included 49 female patients with mixed urinary incontinence. Participants were divided into the MCI-PFMT group and the control group. The MCI-PFMT group performed supervised intensive pelvic floor muscle training, while the control group received bladder training and standard pelvic floor muscle training as a home program. Both training sessions were conducted 5 days a week for a single week. Participants' symptoms were evaluated with questionnaires, bladder diary, and pad tests. Superficial electromyography, ultrasonography, and the PERFECT scale were used to evaluate pelvic floor and abdominal muscle functions.

RESULTS

In the post-treatment evaluation, symptoms were decreased in both groups, with a significant decrease in the MCI-PFMT group (p < 0.05). While average and peak work values of pelvic floor muscles, transversus abdominus, and internal oblique muscles increased in both groups, maximum voluntary contraction values of these muscles decreased (p < 0.05). A 12.7% decrease was observed in the maximum voluntary contraction values of pelvic floor muscles in the control group, while a 9.6% decrease was observed in the MCI-PFMT group.

CONCLUSIONS

The MCI-PFMT protocol can lead to pelvic floor and abdominal muscle fatigue. However, it may be effective at decreasing symptoms in women with urinary incontinence. Additional studies on this issue are needed.

Management of a pregnancy with Crigler-Najjar syndrome type 2: a case report

Objective: To report a case with Crigler-Najjar syndrome type 2 of elevated bilirubin levels who was treated with triple therapy. Case(s): Crigler-Najjar syndrome is a rare congenital disorder that causes non-obstructive non-hemolytic unconjugated jaundice. The syndrome is divided into two groups according to the severity and the clinical presentation of the disease. In these cases, there is an elevated risk of antenatal death or permanent neurological impairment of the fetus due to fetal kernicterus caused by excessively increased unconjugated bilirubin levels. Phototherapy, phenobarbital and plasmapheresis can be useful in reducing serum total bilirubin concentrations, thus adverse maternal and neonatal risks. Conclusion: At her 37 weeks of gestation, the patient delivered a healthy girl. No pathological neurological findings were found and the baby had normal growth with intact neurological development.

The effect of oral contraceptive use on sympatic nerve activity in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome

OBJECTIVE

High sympathetic nerve activity, is thought to be a cardiovascular risk factor, has been shown to correlate with circulating high testosterone levels. However its role on the pathophysiology of the polycystic ovarian syndrome has not been clearly established. The aim of our study is to compare the sympathetic nerve activity between polycystic ovarian syndrome and control group and to determine whether the use of oral contraceptives for contraception has any effect on this activity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Our study has designed as a prospective, case-control study including patients diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome. Antropometric measurements were calculated, hormone levels were measured and sympathetic skin response and heart rate variability measurements were performed in the laboratory to assess sympathetic activity before starting oral contraceptive pill therapy and at the end of 1 month follow up.

RESULTS

In the baseline condition LH/FSH ratio, LH, DHEAS, and total testosterone levels were significantly higher in women with PCOS. After 1 month of treatment, reductions in Ferriman-Gallwey score, ovarian volumes, number of follicles, LH/FSH ratio, LH, and androgen hormone levels were statistically significant. The mean values of sympathetic skin response amplitude and R-R analysis-Valsalva test were higher in PCOS group as compared to the control group. However, these differences were not statistically significant. Similarly, no statistically significant difference in SSR latency and R-R analysis-standup test were demonstrated between PCOS and control groups.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, our study supports the increased sympatovagal activity in patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome.

Asymptomatic microperforated transverse vaginal septum presenting with primary infertility: a rare form of mullerian anomaly

Transverse vaginal septum is a rare type of mullerian anomaly resulting from failure of the canalization of the vaginal plate at the point where the urogenital sinus meets the mullerian duct and usually presents at menarche with symptoms of outflow tract obstruction. Instead, patients with a perforated septum often have normal menses and usually present with difficulties with intercourse or infertility. A 24-year-old patient with 5 years of infertility is reported. Following assessment, isolated microperforated transverse vaginal septum (U0C0V3 according to the new classification system of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology/European Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy for congenital uterine anomalies) was detected with no additional urogenital anomaly and simple excision of the septum and end-to-end vaginal anastomosis was performed. The patient became pregnant spontaneously 2 months after the operation when sexual intercourse was permitted. Transverse vaginal septum, which presented itself with no clinical findings and only primary infertility, is discussed with a review of the existing literature.

Analysis and classification of compressed EMG signals by wavelet transform via alternative neural networks algorithms

We propose intelligent methods for classifying three different muscle types, i.e. biceps, frontallis and abductor pollicis brevis muscles, with low computational complexity. For this aim, electromyogram (EMG) signals are recorded and modelled by using an auto-regressive (AR) model. As the size of the EMG signals is usually large, the computational complexity of artificial neural network (ANN) systems drastically increases. Therefore, in the proposed scheme EMG signals are pre-processed by using a wavelet transform and then they are modelled by employing an AR approach. The AR coefficients are used to train and test the ANNs. Experimental results show that the highest achieved classification accuracy is more than 95% in the case of EMG signals pre-processed by wavelet transform. The wavelet transform-based pre-processing significantly increases the performance rates compared to standard multilayer perceptron and general regression neural networks algorithms.

Challenges of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy in protein biosensing

Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurement, performed in the presence of a redox agent, is a convenient method to measure molecular interactions of electrochemically inactive compounds taking place on the electrode surface. High sensitivity of the method, being highly advantageous, can be also associated with nonspecific impedance changes that could be easily mistaken for specific interactions. Therefore, it is necessary to be aware of all possible causes and perform parallel control experiments to rule them out. We present the results obtained during the early stages of aptamer-based sensor development, utilizing a model system of human alpha thrombin interacting with a thiolated DNA aptamer, immobilized on gold electrodes. EIS measurements took place in the presence of iron ferrocyanides. In addition to known method limitations, that is, inability to discriminate between specific and nonspecific binding (both causing impedance increase), we have found other factors leading to nonspecific impedance changes, such as: (i) initial electrode contamination; (ii) repetitive measurements; (iii) additional cyclic voltammetry (CV) or differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) measurements; and (iv) additional incubations in the buffer between measurements, which have never been discussed before. We suggest ways to overcome the method limitations.

Comparison of serum CA 19.9, CA 125 and CEA levels with severity of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

OBJECTIVE

To investigate serum levels of CA 19.9, CA 125 and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) in patients with different stages of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Fifty-three consecutive patients (50 males, 3 females, mean age 67.6 +/- 10.1 years) with COPD were included in this study. Serum levels of CA 19.9, CA 25 and CEA were determined by the chemiluminescent immunometric method. Based on values obtained from pulmonary function tests, the patients were divided into 3 groups: moderate (21), severe (18) and very severe (14). Data were analyzed with a Kruskal-Wallis one-way analysis of variance test and Mann-Whitney U test.

RESULTS

The mean serum levels of CA 125 and CA 19.9 were significantly higher in patients with very severe COPD (p = 0.013 and p = 0.017, respectively) than in patients with severe and moderate COPD (p < 0.05). Patients with cor pulmonale had significantly high mean serum levels of CEA, CA 19.9 and CA 125 (p < 0.05). Patients using a long-acting beta-agonist and theophylline showed significantly higher mean serum levels of CA 125 than patients who were not (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Data showed that the increased serum tumor markers in patients with COPD might be due to the severity of COPD, medication and cor pulmonale.

Biomaterial-based infrared detection

This effort is focused on the use of crustacyanin protein extracted from the lobster shell in IR detection and imaging applications. In addition to the protein's excellent reversible thermo-active response in the IR region of interest, electrical characteristics versus temperature showed that the protein can be used as an electro-optic thermal sensing device as well. The high sensitivity and fast response of the protein layer were further enhanced by the deposition process we used. The thin coatings were prepared by Langmuir-Blodgett and self-assembly techniques. Furthermore, the protein exhibited temperature variation under Ti:sapphire laser excitation at different wavelengths in ambient environment. We have also shown that the protein exhibits fluorescence properties after exposure to IR heat. Stability of the protein, which is important in this type of application, was also demonstrated using the different characterization techniques after repeated heating/cooling cycles. We can conclude that this protein represents a formidable candidate for the fabrication of IR sensors and microbolometers for uncooled IR imaging applications.

Interaction between Chlamydia pneumoniae seropositivity, inflammation and risk factors for atherosclerosis in patients with severe coronary stenosis

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether Chlamydia pneumoniae (Cpn) seropositivity in patients with suspected coronary artery disease (CAD) (n = 81) is associated with increases in markers of inflammation, the severity of coronary atherosclerosis, and traditional risk factors for cardiovascular events.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The severity of coronary atherosclerosis was ranked by Gensini score. Inflammation and endothelial dysfunction were evaluated using white blood cell counts and levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), ferritin, tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukins 1beta and 6 (IL-1beta, IL-6), soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1), E-selectin and oxidized LDL (oxLDL), and these were compared between Cpn-seropositive and seronegative individuals.

RESULTS

IgA and IgG Cpn seropositivity were significantly associated with the presence of CAD (p = 0.005) and were independent predictive factors for the severity of coronary atherosclerosis (p = 0.005). Elevated levels of IL-6 (p = 0.027) and triglyceride (p = 0.038) and low levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (p = 0.038) were significantly predicted by Cpn IgA and IgG seropositivity.

CONCLUSIONS

Seropositivity for Cpn is a risk factor for patients with significant angiographically documented coronary stenosis. Additionally, Cpn seropositivity was significantly associated with dyslipidemia and elevated IL-6, known risk factors for CAD. These observations indicate that Cpn infection may be one entry point to the causal or contributory pathways that lead to atherosclerosis and its clinical manifestations.

An experimental study on the application of extracorporeal shock waves in the treatment of tendon injuries: preliminary report

The use of low-energy extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) has recently been introduced in pseudoarthrosis, fracture, and wound healing for both clinical and experimental purposes. In this study, we created an experimental rat model to investigate the histopathological and biochemical effects of ESWT in the healing of tendon injury that may accompany fractures. Twenty-eight rats were used for the histopathological investigation. The right achilles tendon of the rat was cut and then sutured, using Modified Kessler stitches method. Five hundred shock waves, set at 14 kV, were applied to the achilles tendon under fluoroscopic guidance. Fourteen rats that underwent a sham operation served as the control group. Biochemical studies were done on 20 rats, divided into four groups of 5 rats in each. The first and second groups received 500 shock waves, at 14 kV, after the cutting and repairing of the Achilles tendon. To measure hydroxyproline levels, the rats in the first and second groups were killed on postoperative days 3 and 9, respectively. The third and fourth groups served as controls. Hydroxyproline levels were found to be high in the study groups. The histopathological findings and the increased hydroxyproline levels revealed that ESWT may facilitate tendon healing after trauma.

The effect of 2-chloroadenosine on lipid peroxide level during experimental cerebral ischemia-reperfusion in gerbils

Oxygen free radicals may be implicated in the pathogenesis of ischemia-reperfusion damage. It is known that 2-chloroadenosine (2-CADO) has neuromodulatory effects and prevents the neuronal damage seen in the period of postischemia reperfusion. However, direct effects of 2-CADO on lipid peroxidation have not been investigated previously. The attack on the cell membrane by free radicals leads to lipid peroxidation, which can be assayed by the malondialdehyde (MDA) level. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of 2-CADO therapy on lipid peroxidation in experimental forebrain ischemia and postischemia reperfusion in Mongolian gerbils. Cerebral ischemia was induced by a bilateral 30-mm occlusion of the common carotid arteries. 2-Chloroadenosine (0.6 mg/kg, IV) was administered 5 min subsequent to ischemia. Ischemia was followed by reperfusion for 30 min. The MDA level was measured by the thiobarbituric acid (TBA) test. Bilateral carotid artery occlusion for 30 min in gerbils resulted in no significant change in MDA level in the brain. The MDA level was higher in postischemia reperfusion than in the ischemic group. 2-Chloroadenosine treatment did not change the MDA level in the ischemic period. However, the MDA level recovered significantly upon 2-CADO therapy during reperfusion following ischemia. These results suggest that 2-CADO may offer some degree of protection against oxidative stress in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion damage.

Urinary glycosaminoglycan excretion in bladder carcinoma

The urinary glycosaminoglycan (GAG) excretion in 35 patients with bladder cancer was significantly greater than that in 30 normal persons. In the cancer patients, the results were analysed according to tumour characteristics. Statistically significant differences were found, with increased GAG levels paralleling tumour size, multifocality, stage and grade. These preliminary data suggest that, parallel with established clinical parameters, measurement of urinary GAG excretion provides an indicator of repair of the bladder epithelium.

The effect of 2-chloroadenosine on the ATP level Na,K ATPase activity in experimental brain ischemia of gerbil

T1. The effect of 2-chloroadenosine, an adenosine analogue, on brain ATP level and Na,K ATPase activity in ischemia and reperfusion was studied. 2. Na,K ATPase activity decreased in both ischemia and reperfusion. Although the ATP level decreased in ischemia, it increased with reperfusion (P < 0.05). 3. It is concluded that 2-chloroadenosine treatment influenced ATP production and Na,K ATPase activity in ischemia and reperfusion (P < 0.05).

The effect of high-dose inhaled budesonide on lipid profile in asthmatic patients

1. We determined the effect of high doses of inhaled corticosteroid (budesonide, BUD, 1600 micrograms/day for 4 weeks) on fasting triglyceride, cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol concentration in 11 asthmatic patients. 2. No significant change of serum fasting triglyceride concentrations was found before and after BUD therapy (p > 0.05). However, serum fasting cholesterol concentration decreased slightly (p = 0.03) and HDL-cholesterol concentrations increased after BUD therapy for four weeks (p = 0.01). 3. These results suggest that high-dose BUD therapy does have minor effects on lipid metabolism after long periods of use in asthmatic patients.

Effect of the sulfonylurea glyburide on glutathione and glutathione peroxidase activity in alloxan-induced diabetic rat hepatocytes

1. The effect of glyburide treatment on glutathione peroxidase activity and glutathione levels of non-insulin diabetic rats has been studied. 2. Hepatic glutathione and glutathione peroxidase concentrations were significantly reduced in diabetic animals. 3. Glyburide treatment of diabetic rats for 4 weeks corrected the changes on the glutathione levels observed in diabetic liver. 4. High blood glucose levels of untreated diabetic rats were decreased following glyburide treatment as well. 5. Administration of glyburide to diabetic rats reversed the diabetes-induced changes suggesting that glyburide may directly increase liver glutathione concentrations.