Functional consequences of enhanced expression of STIM1 and Orai1 in Huh-7 hepatocellular carcinoma tumor-initiating cells

Background

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca²⁺ sensor, stromal interaction molecule1 (STIM1) activates the plasma membrane (PM) channel Orai1 in order to mediate store-operated Ca²⁺ entry (SOCE) in response to ER store depletion. Enhanced expression of STIM1 in cancer tissue has been associated with poor patient prognosis. Therefore, this study investigated the functional consequences of enhanced expression of STIM1 and Orai1 in a tumor-initiating subpopulation of Huh-7 hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells that express epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) and Prominin 1 (CD133).

Methods

We performed qRT-PCR, intracellular Ca²⁺ monitoring, protein analyses, and real-time cell proliferation assays on EpCAM(+)CD133(+) subpopulation of tumor-initiating Huh-7 HCC cells expressing high levels of STIM1 and/or Orai1. Statistical significance between the means of two groups was evaluated using unpaired Student’s t-test.

Results

Enhanced STIM1 expression significantly increased ER Ca²⁺ release and proliferation rate of EpCAM(+)CD133(+) cells.

Conclusion

STIM1 overexpression may facilitate cancer cell survival by increasing ER Ca²⁺-buffering capacity, which makes more Ca²⁺ available for the cytosolic events, on the other hand, possibly preventing Ca²⁺-dependent enzymatic activity in mitochondria whose Ca²⁺ uniporter requires much higher cytosolic Ca²⁺ levels.

Serum amyloid A and Omentin levels in acute appendicitis: a preliminary study for a novel diagnostic approach

BACKGROUND

The diagnosis of acute appendicitis is based on medical history and physical examination. Serum (S) amiloid A (AA) levels are elevated in many inflammatory conditions. Omentin is a recently discovered adipokine showing decreased levels associated with inflammatory conditions. We aimed to measure SAA and omentin levels in patients with acute appendicitis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

36 patients with a diagnosis of acute appendicitis and 30 healthy subjects were enrolled to this research study. A statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics Version 16.0 (SPSS Inc.®, Chicago, IL, United States).

RESULTS

Patients in study group were significantly older than healthy control subjects (p=0.013). Body mass index of the patients with acute appendicitis (23.2 ± 1.3) was greater than that of the control group (22.7 ± 1), but the difference did not reach the statistically significance (p=0.076). ). Mean level of SAA was significantly raised in study group compared to healthy control subjects (p< 0.001). Mean omentin level was significantly lower in study group compared to healthy subjects (p=0.013).

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, although diagnosis of acute appendicitis is mostly based on clinical findings, omentin and especially SAA measurement in serum may help surgeons to avoid negative laparatomy.

Effects of MMP-1 and MMP-3 gene polymorphisms on gene expression and protein level in lumbar disc herniation

The aim of this study was to identify the possible correlation between polymorphisms in matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1 and MMP-3 and their corresponding protein levels in disc tissues obtained from patients with lumbar disc herniation (LDH) using biochemical and immunohistochemical analyses. Blood and disc samples were obtained from 100 patients with LDH who underwent a lumbar microdiscectomy. Based on the radiological degeneration, the patients were diagnosed with grade 2, 3, or 4 LDH. MMP-1 -1607 1G/2G and MMP-3 -1171 5A/6A were analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction. The expressions of MMP-1 and MMP- 3 were detected by biochemical and immunohistochemical analyses. We found no association between the MMP-1 polymorphism and disc degeneration and MMP-1 expression. However, patients expressing the 6A/6A and 5A/6A alleles of MMP-3 -11715A/6A showed higher MMP-3 expression, compared to those expressing the 5A/5A genotype. Additionally, the radiological degeneration grades were correlated with the histological degeneration scoring. Protein levels and immunopositive cell rates of MMP-1 and MMP-3 were associated with disc degeneration grades. Moreover, the MMP-1 and MMP-3 expression and the histological and radiological scores were positively correlated and the MMP-3 -11715A/6A polymorphism was associated with MMP-3 expression in herniated disc tissues. This study is the first to investigate polymorphisms in MMP-1 and MMP-3, as well as their corresponding protein expressions. We also quantified an association between the radiological degeneration grades and MMP-1 and MMP- 3 expression. Further genomic studies on MMPs could focus on the utilization of MMP-1 and MMP-3 as markers for the prevention and treatment of this disease.

Alterations of store-operated calcium entry and cyclopiazonic acid-induced endothelium-derived relaxations in aging rat thoracic aorta

The purpose of our study was to investigate whether endothelium-derived relaxations induced by store depletion are altered in aging rat thoracic aorta. Vascular responses were measured in aortic segments isolated from young (2-4 month) and old (20-24 month) male Sprague-Dawley rats. In phenylephrine-contracted intact tissues, receptor-mediated and receptor-independent endothelium-derived relaxations were induced by acetylcholine (ACh) and sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum Ca²⁺ ATPase (SERCA) blocker cyclopiazonic acid (CPA), respectively. In addition, CPA-induced changes in intracellular calcium levels were monitored in fura-2-loaded endothelium-denuded tissues. Real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis were performed to determine the transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) 4 mRNA and protein levels. Endothelial TRPC4 mRNA levels were apparently decreased in aging rats. Immunoblot analysis showed that TRPC4 protein levels significantly decreased in intact aorta from 20- to 24-month-old rats compared to that from 2- to 4-month-old rats. ACh- and CPA-induced endothelium-dependent relaxations decreased in old rat aorta without any change in direct vasodilation induced by sodium nitroprusside. Store-operated Ca²⁺ entry (SOCE) induced by CPA was significantly decreased, whereas sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca²⁺ release was unaffected in endothelium-denuded aging rat aorta. In conclusion, TRPC4 downregulation could be associated with decreased endothelium-dependent vasorelaxations. As endothelial nitric oxide synthase is activated by SOCE-induced caveolar internalization, tracking the expression levels of SERCA, ion channels, and/or associated proteins involved in SOCE would lead to the development of novel therapeutics for age-related vasospastic disorders with dysfunctional endothelium.

Do Leukocyte and Platelet Counts Have Benefit for \Preoperative Evaluation of Endometrial Cancer?

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between preoperative leukocyte and platelet counts and the stage of the disease in patients with endometrial cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data for 100 patients undergoing total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingoophorectomy for benign uterine diseases and 177 patients surgically staged for endometrial cancer at Ondokuz Mayis University, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics between 2005 and 2013, with preoperative complete blood count in the week prior to surgery including WBC, platelet count, pathologic evaluation for both benign and malign endometrium lesions, tumor stage and presence of lymphovascular space invasion (LVI), were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

The preoperative leukocyte count was significantly higher in patients with endometrial cancer when compared to the patients with benign diseases. However, there were no significant differences in platelet counts between the groups. Patients with advanced stage endometrial cancer had higher preoperative leukocyte counts when compared to the early stage disease whereas there was no difference in platelet count. Multivariate regression analysis identified preoperative leukocytosis as an independent prognostic factor for endometrial cancer. The optimal cut-off point for WBC was calculated as 10,500 to differentiate stage 1-2-3 and 4 with 88.9% sensitivity and 86.3% specificity (AUC: 0.901, 95% CI: 0.829-0.973, p<0.001, PPV: 25.8%, NPV: 99.3%).

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative leukocytosis is independently associated with advanced endometrial cancer.

An Update on Ovarian Aging and Ovarian Reserve Tests

Ovaries are the female organs that age more quickly than other tissues such as the uterus, the pituitary gland or pancreas. Different from males, an interesting question is why and how the females lose fertility so rapidly. During the aging process, both the number and quality of the oocytes in the ovaries decrease and reach to a point beyond that no more viable offspring may be produced and the associated cyclic endocrinological activities cease, entering the menopause in females at an average age of 50 years. Females who delayed childbearing with or without their willing until their 30 years or 40 years constitute the largest portion of the total infertility population. Ovarian reserve tests (ORTs) provide an indirect estimate of a female’s diminishing ovarian reserve or remaining follicular pool. This article briefly reviews recent progresses in relation to ovarian aging and ORTs.

Is Surgical Staging Necessary for Patients with Low-risk Endometrial Cancer? A Retrospective Clinical Analysis

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to compare the tumor-free and overall survival rates between patients with low-risk endometrial cancer who underwent surgical staging and those who did not undergo surgical staging.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data, including demographic characteristics, grade of the tumor, myometrial invasion, cervical involvement, peritoneal washing, lymph node involvement, lymphovascular space invasion, postoperative complication, adjuvant treatment, cancer recurrence, and tumor-free and overall survival rates, for patients with low-risk endometrioid endometrial cancer who were treated surgically with and without pelvic and paraaortic lymph node dissection (LND) were analyzed retrospectively. The patients diagnosed with endometrioid endometrial cancer including the following criteria were considered low-risk: 1) a grade 1 (G1) or grade 2 (G2) endometrioid histology; 2) myometrial invasion of <50% upon magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); 3) no stromal glandular or stromal invasion upon MRI; and 4) no evidence of intra-abdominal metastasis. Then the patients at low-risk were divided into two groups; group 1 (n=117): patients treated surgically with pelvic and paraaortic LND and group 2 (n=170): patients treated surgically without pelvic and paraaortic LND.

RESULTS

There was no statistical significance when the groups were compared in terms of lymphovascular space invasion, cervical involvement, positive cytology, and recurrence, whereas the administration of an adjuvant therapy was higher in group 2 (p<0.005). The number of patients with positive pelvic nodes and the number of metastatic pelvic nodes were significantly higher in the group with positive LVI than in the group without LVI (p<0.005). No statistically significant differences were detected between the groups in terms of tumor-free survival (p=0.981) and overall survival (p=0.166).

CONCLUSIONS

Total hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy and stage-adapted postoperative adjuvant therapy without pelvic and/or paraaortic lymphadenectomy may be safe and efficient treatments for low-risk endometrial cancer.

Effects of the inflammatory response on serum omentin levels in early acute and chronic pancreatitis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Acute pancreatitis is an acute inflammation of the parenchyma of the pancreas. Several adipokines have been investigated in acute pancreatitis, and these cytokines contribute to inflammation in acute pancreatitis. However, not enough data exist regarding omentin in injuries of the pancreas. Because of a possible common pathogenesis, we aimed to study the association between pancreatic damage and serum omentin levels.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-four Sprague Dowley rats weighing 200-250 g were randomly placed into three groups: a sham group (n=8), an acute pancreatitis group (n=8), and a chronic pancreatitis group (n=8). Both rats in the sham group underwent laparotomy, and 0.1 cc of saline solution was injected through the pancreatic canal. On the seventh day, a blood sample was obtained by abdominal aorta puncture, and the pancreas was resected for histological examination. In the acute and chronic pancreatitis groups, 0.1 cc of 4.5% Sodium Taurocholote was injected through the pancreatic canal. Blood samples were obtained and pancreatic resection was performed after 24 hours for the acute pancreatitis group and after 7 days for the chronic pancreatitis group.

RESULTS

Serum omentin levels of rats with chronic pancreatitis (49.37±2.82 ng/ml) were increased compared to both acute pancreatitis (37.79±1.24 ng/ml) (p<0.01) and sham rats (22.49±1.4 ng/ml) (p<0.01). In addition, the omentin level of rats with acute pancreatitis was significantly increased compared to the sham group (p<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The elevation in omentin levels in rats in the early stage of pancreatitis was due to the anti-inflammatory effects of omentin; hence, elevated omentin levels improved insulin resistance and caused a significant reduction in glucose levels.

The protective effects of dexmedetomidine on hepatic ischemia reperfusion injury

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of dexmedetomidine (100 µg/kg-ip) on liver ischemia and reperfusion (I/R) in rats.

METHODS

Twenty-four Wistar Albino rats were separated into three groups as control (C), ischemia-reperfusion injury (I/R) and dexmedetomidine group (I/R-D). Ischemia was induced with portal clampage for 45 minutes and reperfusion period was 45 minutes after declampage. Group I/R-D was received dexmedetomidine 100 µg/kg i.p. 30 min before portal clampage. Thiobarbutiric Acid-Reactive Substances (TBARS), glutathioneS-transferase (GST), superoxide dismutase (SOD), Catalase (CAT), and Paraoxonase 1 (PON-1) were investigated in blood samples. Also HSP60 and p53-positive hepatocytes were counted under ImageJ image analysis program.

RESULTS

All parameters, except GST levels, were significant between the groups (p < 0.05). Although HSP60 expression was significantly increased between I/R, I/R-D and C groups there were no significant differences between I/R-D and C (p = 0.443). On the other hand, p53 expression was also significantly increased between I/R, I/R-D and C groups At the same time, there were no significant differences between I/R-D and C groups (p = 0.354).

CONCLUSION

All the results suggest that dexmedetomidine has beneficial effects on liver ischemia/reperfusion stress (Tab. 1, Fig. 2, Ref. 49).

Serum omentin levels predicts mesenteric ischemia

BACKGROUND

Acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI) is an intestinal vascular disease with high mortality. Clinical diagnosis of acute mesenteric ischemia is difficult. Adipose tissue is an important mediator of metabolism and inflammation.Omentin is produced by visceral adipose tissue and decreased serum levels of omentin are associated with poor metabolic outcomes. We aimed to investigate whether serum omentin level predicts early diagnosis of AMI before development of transmural ischemia.

METHODS

Twenty-four Sprague Dawley rats weighted about 200-250 gr grouped in 3 experimental groups as sham, transient ischemia and permanent ischemia. Each group consisted of 8 rats. Blood samples were evaluated to determine serum urea, creatinine, omentin and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. A blinded histological examination performed with the same histologist for hemotoxileneosine painted ileal tissue samples.

RESULTS

Mean serum omentin level in sham group (27.5±4.67) was significantly elevated compared to rats in Ischemia-reperfusion (IR) group (10.9±9.01).The difference reached the statistical significance (p=0.004). Serum omentin levels were not correlated to urea, creatinine or CRPlevels.

CONCLUSION

Omentin levels may be a biochemical indicator to detect AMI. However, further human studies are needed (Tab. 3, Fig. 3, Ref. 34).

Hepatocyte apoptotic index and p53 expression in obstructive jaundice rats

OBJECTIVE

Obstructive jaundice is a serious disease. It can deteriorate critical functions in the liver.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

A total of 20 male Wistar-Albino rats were randomly allocated into two groups consisting of ten in each as follows: Group I (Control) was subjected to a sham operation isolating the bile duct. Group II(Study) was subjected to acute cholestasis induced by bile duct ligation with 4/0 silk suture from two different places and full fold cut between ligatures. On the 7th day, group II rats were re-operated for liver sampling and sacrification-aimed histological analysis through the old incision with anaesthesia. Hepatic tissues were histologically and immunohistochemically processed. The number of apoptotic and p53(+) cells were measured.

RESULTS

On the 7th day, the averages of direct and indirect bilirubin values in Group II rats were found to be 6.99 and 11.70 mg/dl, respectively. They were observed to be statistically significant. In the immunohistochemical evaluation p53 expression in hepatocytes was assessed, p53-positive hepatocytes were determined to exist quite widely in the tissue samples taken from the livers of rats in the study group. Nevertheless, no cells exhibiting p53 expression were found in the tissue samples of the control group.

CONCLUSION

Apoptosis is a closed box and it might make it possible to stop the many disease processes or accelerate the healing. If the principal effective mechanism in the liver under a certain stress factor is apoptosis, it is definite that it will make a difference in the treatment approach. Consequently, we can say that both apoptotic index and p53 expression increase in the rats' liver with biliary obstruction (Fig. 4, Ref. 51).

Clinical analysis of emergency peripartum hysterectomies in a tertiary center

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the incidence, indications, complications, and risk factors associated with increased mortality and morbidity of emergency peripartum hysterectomy (EPH).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The authors retrospectively analyzed 48 cases of EPH performed within six-year interval at Ondokuz Mayis University Hospital. EPH was defined as the operation performed for life-threatening hemorrhage which could not be controlled with conservative treatment modalities within 24 hours of a delivery.

RESULTS

The incidence of EPH was 5.03 per 1,000 deliveries. The most common indication for EPH was abnormal placental adherence (n = 22, 45.8%), followed by uter- ine atony (n = 19, 39.6%). All the patients with placenta accreta had a history of repeat cesarian section (CS) and placenta previa.Total hysterectomy was performed in almost all of the patients (n = 47, 97.9%). All women required blood transfusions. Maternal morbidity was significant, with bladder injury (31.3%) and disseminated intravascular coagulation (18.7%) among the most common complications. There were one maternal (2.1%) and five neonatal deaths (10.4%).

CONCLUSION

Since most of the EPH cases are associated with prior cesarean delivery, decision of the first CS should be made for true obstetrical indications.If conservative treatments fail to control massive obstetrical bleeding, blood products and an experienced obstetrician should be ready to perform EPH to decrease the maternal mor- bidity and mortality.

Detecting the translocation of DNA through a nanopore using graphene nanoribbons

Solid-state nanopores can act as single-molecule sensors and could potentially be used to rapidly sequence DNA molecules. However, nanopores are typically fabricated in insulating membranes that are as thick as 15 bases, which makes it difficult for the devices to read individual bases. Graphene is only 0.335 nm thick (equivalent to the spacing between two bases in a DNA chain) and could therefore provide a suitable membrane for sequencing applications. Here, we show that a solid-state nanopore can be integrated with a graphene nanoribbon transistor to create a sensor for DNA translocation. As DNA molecules move through the pore, the device can simultaneously measure drops in ionic current and changes in local voltage in the transistor, which can both be used to detect the molecules. We examine the correlation between these two signals and use the ionic current measurements as a real-time control of the graphene-based sensing device.

Protective effect of montelukast, a cysteinyl leukotriene receptor-1 antagonist, against intestinal ischemia-reperfusion injury in the rat

OBJECTIVE

Ischemia-reperfusion (I-R) injury of the intestine is a significant problem because the initial damage caused by ischemia is exacerbated by reperfusion. In this study, we examined the protective effect of montelukast against I-R-induced intestinal tissue damage.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eight-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into three treatment groups : a sham-operated group, a group receiving I-R, and a group receiving I-R plus montelukast (I-R/M). Tissue samples were evaluated and scored histologically. The blood levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), myeloperoxidase (MPO), glutathione (GSH), and cardiotrophin-1 (CT-1) were measured.

RESULTS

In the I-R group, the histological score and the levels of serum MDA and MPO were increased compared with those in the control group. In the I-R/M group, the histological score and serum MDA and MPO levels were significantly decreased compared with those in the I-R group. Additionally, compared with the IR group, the I-R/M group had increased serum GSH and CT-1 levels and a decreased intestinal injury score. Ileal sections from the I-R/M group showed minimal alterations, characterized by moderate lifting of the epithelial layer from the lamina propria, and few apoptotic enterocytes were observed compare with the number in the I-R group.

CONCLUSION

The findings of the present study demonstrated that montelukast can protect I-R-induced intestinal damage in rats.

Platelet function in euthyroid patients undergoing thyroidectomy in women

BACKGROUND

Several studies have reported several platelet abnormalities in patients with sub-clinical or overt thyroid dysfunctions. The primary mechanism that affects the hemostatic balance is excess or deficiency of thyroid hormones. The different ways of thyroid gland to the platelet function are not yet clearly understood. The relationship between in the thyroid gland and platelet activation without thyroid hormones has not been studied yet.

AIM

The aim of our study is to determine the platelet function in euthyroid patients undergoing thyroidectomy in females.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study group includes 52 female euthyroid patients undergoing thyroidectomy. The control group consisted with 21 healthy euthyroid female. Platelet count (PC), platelet mass (PM), mean platelet volume (MPV), and platelet distribution width (PDW) were measured. PM was calculated by multiplying MPV and PLT.

RESULTS

MPV (8.4 ± 1.3 versus 7.9 ± 0.8) and PDW (17.8 ± 1 versus 17.6 ± 0.8) values were similar between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Thyroid gland does not directly affect platelet activation. Accordingly, platelet abnormalities of thyroid disease can be considered to be independent of the underlying thyroid tissue. This finding suggests that association between thyroid diseases and platelet function is dependent on the status of thyroid hormones.

UbcH10 Expression in Benign, Hyperplastic, and Malignant Endometrial Curetted Materials

The aim of this study was to investigate the role of UbcH10 expression in the differential diagnosis of benign, hyperplastic, and malignant endometrial tissues and also the relationship of UbcH10 with the clinicopathologic parameters of malignant cases. A tissue microarray was performed for 81 endometrial curettage biopsies, which histological diagnosis had demonstrated to be 13 cases of proliferative endometrium, 7 cases of disordered proliferative endometrium, 5 cases of complex atypical hyperplasia, 24 cases of nonatypical hyperplasia, and 32 cases of endometrioid adenocarcinoma. Expression of UbcH10 was assessed by immunohistochemistry. When groups were compared according to UbcH10 percentages and scores, a statistically significant difference was found only between the carcinoma group and the other groups, except the complex atypical hyperplasia group ( P < .05). In the malignant group, UbcH10 percentages and scores were only significantly related to age. There was no significant association between UbcH10 expression and tumor grade and stage. Overexpression of UbcH10 may be a useful indicator of endometrial carcinoma. UbcH10 also deserves further evaluation in the detection of prognostic mean and also for its role in endometrial carcinogenesis.

Successful pregnancy and delivery in a patient with bladder exstrophy

Bladder exstrophy (BE) is a rare congenital anomaly. Owing to the advanced reconstructive surgical techniques and effective antibiotics, the incidence of urinary and systemic complications in patients with BE has decreased and the life expectancy has increased. However, this brings along social, sexual, and psychological problems; particularly, successful pregnancy and delivery is extremely rare in females with BE. We present a pregnancy of an 18-year-old female with BE, who has been followed at our university hospital since birth.

Lung tissue apoptosis in abdominal hypertension : Apoptosis and necrosis of lung tissue in abdominal hypertension

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate lung tissue histopathologic changes and the number of apoptosis with the increase of abdominal pressure.

METHODS

The study rats were randomly assigned into the following five groups: a sham operated group and groups 1, 2, 3 and 4, in which the intra-abdominal pressure was increased to 11, 15, 18 and 22 mmHg for 60 min, respectively. Lungs were harvested for histopathologic changes and the tissue apoptotic analysis were carried out in a blinded manner.

RESULTS

All of the data showed that the number of apoptotic cells and necrosis were increased in accordance with the pressure level. However, this increase was statistically significant, especially in groups 3 and 4 (18 and 22 mmHg, respectively; p < 0.05) when compared to the sham operated rats. There were no differences observed between groups 1 and 2 (11 and 15 mmHg, respectively) and the sham operated rats. There was also no difference between groups 1 and 2. There were findings of coagulation necrosis and the number of apoptotic cells linearly increased when the abdominal pressure was increased. The cut-off value was 15 mmHg.

CONCLUSION

The available findings suggest that intra-abdominal pressure greater than 15 mmHg could irreversibly damage pulmonary cells and both coagulation necrosis parameters and the number of apoptosis increase in accordance with the pressure level.

Intravesical migration of an intrauterine device detected in a pregnant woman

The intrauterine device (IUD) is common method of contraception among women because of its low cost and high efficacy. Perforations are possible; most perforations occur at the time of insertion, yet the complication can occur with a previously inserted IUD. Perforation of the bladder by an IUD is extremely rare. In this report, we present a case in which the IUD perforated the uterus and migrated to the bladder. At the time of the diagnosis, the patient was 8 weeks pregnant.

Primary carcinoma of the neovagina: a case report

We present a case of squamous cell carcinoma arising in the neovagina of a woman in whom we performed vaginoplasty 20 years before. To the best of our knowledge, this is the 23rd case of total carcinoma arising in the neovagina constructed because of vaginal agenesis, and the 3nd case of carcinoma arising in the neovagina performed without using a graft.

Clinical and molecular studies in two families with Fraser syndrome: a new FRAS1 gene mutation, prenatal ultrasound findings and implications for genetic counselling

Fraser syndrome is a rare autosomal recessive genetic disorder characterized by cryptophthalmus, variable expression of cutaneous syndactyly of fingers and toes, genital ambiguity and renal agenesis/dysgenesis. We present here molecular and clinical findings of four fetuses with FS from two families. Molecular genetic studies in the two families revealed mutations in FRAS1 gene allowing better genetic counselling and subsequent prenatal diagnosis in one of the two families. In family one, a nonsense mutation (c.3730C>T, p.R1244X) previously described in a Polish patient was found. In family two a novel nonsense mutation previously not known was detected (c.370C>T, p.R124X). PGD is planned for family 1.

Comparison of the effects of raloxifene and anastrozole on experimental endometriosis

OBJECTIVE

To compare the efficacies of anastrozole and raloxifene on endometriosis.

STUDY DESIGN

A randomized, placebo-controlled, single-blind, experimental study was performed on 45 adult Wistar female rats in the Experimental Surgery Laboratory at Ondokuz Mayis University in Turkey. Endometrial tissues were implanted on the abdominal peritoneum in 45 rats. Six weeks later, the implant volumes were measured (volume-1) by performing a second laparotomy. Rats were randomized to one of three equal study groups. Saline solution (0.1 cc/rat/week, subcutaneously) was administered to group 1 (control group), anastrozole (0.004 mg/rat/day, orally) to group 2 (anastrozole group), and raloxifene (0.24 mg/rat/day, orally) to group 3 (raloxifene group) for 8 weeks. At the end of administration, a third laparotomy was performed to remeasure implant volumes (volume-2), and implants were totally excised for histopathologic examination. Volume-1 and volume-2 within the groups, as well as stromal and glandular tissues between the groups, were compared.

RESULT(S)

In the anastrozole and raloxifene groups, volume-2 values were significantly lower than those of volume-1. When compared to the control group, in both anastrozole and raloxifene groups, while glandular tissue scores were found significantly lower, stromal tissue scores were not different than that of the control group. There was no significant difference between both the GT and ST scores of the anastrozole and raloxifene groups.

CONCLUSION(S)

Anastrozole and raloxifene were seen to have caused equally the regression of the experimental endometriosis statistically significantly.

Pure gonadal dysgenesis and spontaneous pregnancy: a case report

We report a case of pure gonadal dysgenesis with streak gonads in which spontaneous conception occurred 10 years after the diagnosis. Her pregnancy proceeded as normal, and she gave birth to a live baby at term by cesarean section. A lactation period lasting for 1 year and afterwards proceeded as amenorrheic. Gonadotropins measurements in post-lactational period were at the menopausal levels again. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of pure gonadal dysgenesis with streak gonads in which spontaneous conception occurred.

Characterization of red raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) genotypes for their physicochemical properties

The worldwide tendency for growing more small fruits, including raspberries, shows permanent increase because this group of fruits has a relatively higher content of bioactive nutrients. To study the health benefits of red raspberry fruits, 11 preselected wild-grown and 1 well-known cultivar, Heritage, were evaluated for some of their physicochemical properties such as fruit weight, total antioxidant capacity (measured by beta-carotene bleaching and FRAP assays), total phenolics, ascorbic acid, soluble solid content (SSC), and acidity. Fruit weight, SSC, and ascorbic acid contents were between 1.47 and 2.32 g, 10.87% and 13.60%, and 21 and 36 mg/100 g, respectively. Antioxidant activity and total phenolic content varied among genotypes and the ERZ5 genotype had the highest antioxidant capacity as ascertained by both methods. This genotype also had the highest total phenolic (2031 microg GAE/g FW) content. There are linear relationships between antioxidant capacities and total phenols. The present study demonstrates the potential of certain wild genotypes, notably ERZ5, for improving the nutritional value through germplasm enhancement programs.

Age-related diseases; degenerative aortic valve disease and osteoarthritis

OBJECTIVE

To examine the relationship between degenerative aortic valve disease and osteoarthritis Background: Degenerative aortic valve disease (DAVD) and osteoarthritis (OA) are age-related degenerative diseases whose pathogenesis involves mechanical stress and local inflammation.

METHODS

Forty-four patients with DAVD (Group 1) and 21 controls (Group 2) were included in this study, which was intended to investigate the similarity between the two conditions. The two groups were similar in terms of age, sex, body mass index, a history of hypertension, cholesterol levels, diabetes mellitus and cigarette consumption.

RESULTS

The average age + standard deviation of the DAVD patients were 71.3 +/- 7.5, compared to 67.5 +/- 10.6 in the control group. In radiological OA analysis, the Lane scale was employed in the lumbar region and the Kellgren-Lawrence scale in the knee joint. Comparison of Groups 1 and 2 revealed no difference in radiological OA in the lumbar region and knee joint.

CONCLUSION

Our study has shown that there is no relationship between these diseases that increased with age. However, extensive studies examining pathogenic mechanisms are needed (Tab. 2, Ref. 11).

Peritoneal tuberculosis in premenopausal patients with elevated serum CA 125

INTRODUCTION

Peritoneal tuberculosis predominantly involves the omentum, intestinal tract, liver, spleen, and genitourinary tract and occurs in 1-4% of patients with pulmonary tuberculosis. Peritoneal tuberculosis may mimic a pelvic mass in imaging studies and also may increase CA-125 levels. Peritoneal tuberculosis may also produce massive ascites, and intraperitoneal gross appearance might be similar to the peritoneal carcinomatosis. Therefore, peritoneal tuberculosis is often confused with advanced-stage epithelial carcinoma because of similar clinical, radiologic, and laboratory findings and later intraoperative findings.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The pathology records between January 2000 and August 2008 were retrospectively reviewed at 19 Mayis University Hospital. Twenty-two patients were found to have peritoneal caseating necrosis. A total of 13 out of 22 patients were found to have high CA 125 level.

RESULTS

Among these 13 patients, 8 patients received/are receiving anti-tuberculous therapy after they were incidentally diagnosed with peritoneal tuberculosis.

CONCLUSION

Increased CA 125 levels should be evaluated carefully prior to aggressive surgical approach, especially in premenopausal women and frozen section evaluation should be done before extensive surgical procedure if there is any suspicion.

Protective effects of doxycycline in ischemia/reperfusion injury on kidney

Renal ischemia and reperfusion injury is the major cause of acute renal failure and may also be involved in the development and progression of some forms of chronic kidney disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether doxycycline, a member of the tetracycline family of antibiotics, protects kidney tissue or not. 36 Sprague-Dawley rats (200-250 g) were used. The animals were divided into three groups: control, ischemia/reperfusion and ischemia/reperfusion+doxycycline group. Rats were subjected to renal ischemia by clamping the left pedicle for 1 h, and then reperfused for 1 h. The ischemia/reperfusion+doxycycline group were pretreated intraperitoneally with doxycycline suspension (10 mg/kg) 2 h before the induction of ischemia. Our results indicate that malondialdehyde, matrix-metalloproteinase-2, interleukin-2, interleukin-6, interleukin-10, interleukin 1-beta and tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels were significantly higher in the ischemia/reperfusion group than those in the control group. Doxycycline administration significantly decreased these parameters. Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1 levels also increased after ischemia/reperfusion and decreased with doxycycline pretreatment, but these changes were not significantly different. Glutathione levels significantly decreased after ischemia/reperfusion injury when compared with the control group and doxycycline pretreatment significantly increased glutathione levels when compared with the ischemia/reperfusion group. Apoptotic cells and p53 positive cells were significantly decreased in doxycycline treated group. These results suggest that doxycycline reduces renal oxidative injury and facilitates repair. Doxycycline may play a role in a renoprotective therapeutic regimen.

Conjoined twins: Historical perspective and report of a case

In this article we review the historically important cases of conjoined twins (Biddenden Maids, Siamese twins, Blazek sisters) and contemporary knowledge regarding incidence, etiopathogenesis, antenatal diagnosis, antenatal management, and outcome of conjoined twins. We also present a case of male cephalothoracoomphalopagus, which is extremely rare.

Congenital Mesoblastic Nephroma

Congenital mesoblastic nephroma is a rare renal tumor of early infancy with a favorable outcome after complete surgical removal. It consists of a heterogeneous group of spindle cell tumors. Early and accurate prenatal diagnosis of the renal tumor may improve the outcome of affected pregnancies by implementing the best strategy for prenatal management and delivery. But detection of congenital mesoblastic nephroma in a fetus is rare. To the authors' knowledge, there are fewer than 30 reports of a prenatal diagnosis of a mesoblastic nephroma in the literature. This case describes the prenatal sonographic diagnosis of cellular congenital mesoblastic nephroma.