Anterior-apical Transvaginal Mesh (Calistar-S) for Treatment of Advanced Urogenital Prolapse: Surgical and Functional Outcomes at 1 Year

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Calistar-S is a single-incision synthetic mesh kit that addresses apical and anterior compartment prolapse. The aims of this study were to evaluate the short-term objective and subjective outcomes at the 1-year follow-up. The secondary objectives were to evaluate quality of life and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) outcomes, as well as surgical complications.

METHODS

Records of 108 patients with symptomatic advanced pelvic organ prolapse (stages III and IV) who underwent prolapse surgery using the Calistar-S system from June 2018 to August 2022 were reviewed. The primary outcome was the objective cure of anterior and apical prolapse < stage 1, and the subjective cure was the negative response to questions 2 and 3 of the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Distress Inventory-6. Secondary outcomes measured quality of life, the presence of lower urinary tract symptoms, and complications.

RESULTS

A total of 101 patients were evaluated. The overall objective cure rate is 97% and the subjective cure rate is 92.1%. Good outcomes were seen in all three compartments. Secondary outcomes show significant improvement in all validated questionnaires. Persistence and de novo urinary incontinence were 15.2% and 18.2% post-operatively. There is one case of bladder injury and one case of vaginal mesh exposure.

CONCLUSIONS

The Calistar-S System is a safe and efficient method for treating advanced-stage POP. We observed good anatomical results and subjective relief with a minimal complication rate. LUTS have also been positively affected, showing a high success rate. Additional studies are needed to establish the long-term efficacy of this system.

Consistency in human papillomavirus type detection between self-collected vaginal specimens and physician-sampled cervical specimens

With the rising need for accessible cervical cancer screening, self-sampling methods offer a promising alternative to traditional physician-led sampling. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of the HygeiaTouch Self Sampling Kit for Women in detecting human papillomavirus (HPV) types and predicting cervical lesions. We studied the concordance in identifying high-risk HPV (hrHPV) types between samples collected by physicians and those self-collected by women using a self-sampling kit for validation. Women aged 21-65, fitting into specific categories based on their cervical health history were eligible. Cohen's kappa coefficient to gauge concordance between the two specimen types and relative accuracy metrics in identifying cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) were also calculated, with physician-sampled specimens serving as a reference. A total of 1210 participants from three institutes were involved. The self-sampling kit closely matched the physician-led method in terms of collecting valid specimens (100% vs. 100%), identifying hrHPV types (kappa: 0.75, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 0.72-0.79; agreement: 87.7%, 95% CI: 85.8-89.6) and predicting CIN grade 2 or worse (CIN2+) (relative sensitivity: 0.949, relative accuracy: 0.959). Kappa values varied between 0.71 and 0.83 for different hrHPV types and combinations, with an overall value 0.75 (95% CI: 0.72-0.79) signifying robust compatibility between the two methods. Our study underscores the potential of the HygeiaTouch Self Sampling Kit as a reliable, efficient, and user-friendly alternative to traditional sampling methods. This suggests that self-sampling could be pivotal in expanding cervical cancer screening accessibility and enhancing detection rates.

Polypropylene anterior-apical single-incision UPHOLD-LITE mesh surgery in women with severe pelvic organ prolapse: Outcome at 53 months follow up

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

We present this current study to complement with mesh inlays plausible benefits (UPHOLD-LITE System) on available long-term study amidst FDA's concern on mesh complications. This study aims to assess the medium-term outcomes of UPHOLD-LITE system for treatment of advanced pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and its complications, and lower urinary tract symptoms.

METHODS

This is a retrospective case series of 53 months follow-up of 123 consecutive patients who underwent UPHOLD-LITE system. Objective outcome measures the anatomical correction of prolapse with POP-Q ≤ Stage 1. Subjective outcome was patient's feedback to questions 2 and 3 of POPDI-6. Secondary outcome measures the quality of life, presence of lower urinary tract symptoms and complications. Quality of life is assessed by validated questionnaires on Urogenital Distress Inventory 6 (UDI-6), Incontinence Impact Questionnaire 7 (IIQ-7), Pelvic Organ Prolapse Distress Inventory 6 (POPDI-6), and Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Function Questionnaire 12 (PISQ-12) at 1 and 3 years post-operatively.

RESULTS

Objective outcome at 1 and 3 years was at 96.7 % and 95.4 % respectively. The subjective cure was 95.1 % and 91.6 %. Five-year cumulative cure rate maintained at 87.2 %. Secondary outcomes observed improvement on UDI-6, IIQ-7, POPDI-6 and PISQ-12 postoperatively. Bladder outlet obstruction improved while de novo urodynamic stress incontinence (USI) increased slightly post surgically. Mesh erosion rate was 0.8 %.

CONCLUSION

The UPHOLD-LITE system demonstrated good medium term anatomical correction of apical and anterior prolapse, with good subjective cure and improved quality of life. Whilst complication rate was low, slight increase in de novo USI was observed.

Voiding Dysfunction in Patients With Advanced Pelvic Organ Prolapse and Bladder Outlet Obstruction Following Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery: Urodynamic Profile and Predictive Risk Factors

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To determine the outcome of voiding function 1 year after pelvic reconstructive surgery (PRS) in women with bladder outlet obstruction (BOO).

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Tertiary referral hospital.

PATIENTS

A total of 1894 women underwent PRS for advanced pelvic organ prolapse (POP) stages 3 to 4 with urodynamic findings of BOO.

INTERVENTIONS

PRS.

MEASUREMENTS

The primary outcome measured was the resumption of normal voiding function, defined clinically with multichannel urodynamic testing at 1 year postoperatively. The secondary outcomes were to identify the different risk factors for persistence voiding dysfunction (VD) 1 year after PRS.

MAIN RESULTS

A total of 431 women with Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification stages 3 and 4, urodynamic study of maximum urinary flow rate ≤15 mL/s, and detrusor pressure at maximum flow ≥20 cm H2O were included. Resumption of normal voiding function was found in 91% (n = 392 of 431), whereas 9% (n = 39 of 431) remained to have VD 1 year postoperatively. Those with persistent VD, 20.5% (n = 8 of 39) remained having urodynamic diagnosis of BOO. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression revealed factors associated with postoperative VD were pre-operative maximal cystometric capacity ≥500 mL and postvoid residual volume ≥200 mL.

CONCLUSION

VD may persist in women with BOO after PRS, particularly in those with preoperative maximal cystometric capacity of >500 mL and postvoid residual volume >200 mL.

Urinary beta 3-adrenoceptor as a diagnostic biomarker for overactive bladder in women

This study was to investigate urinary beta 3-adrenoceptor concentration as a biomarker for overactive bladder (OAB) and predictor of treatment outcomes in women receiving the beta 3-adrenoceptor agonist mirabegron. The study comprised 50 women identified with OAB and 35 women considered as healthy controls. All women with OAB received daily dosage of 50 mg of mirabegron for 12 weeks. Bladder diaries, OAB-related questionnaires, and global response assessment scale (GRAS) data were collected. Urinary beta 3-adrenoceptor concentration was measured through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. All OAB-related questionnaires and GRAS indicated improved posttreatment urinary health. After mirabegron treatment, the frequency of micturition and urgency episodes decreased, but the urinary beta 3-adrenoceptor/creatinine (Cr) ratio increased. The urinary beta 3-adrenoceptor/creatinine ratio was identified as a sensitive biomarker for OAB with a confidence interval of 0.656 to 0.856 (p < 0.001). A negative correlation (- 0.431, p = 0.040) between this biomarker and health-related quality of life (HRQL) scores. The Beta 3-adrenoceptor/Cr levels increased significantly in the treatment-responsive group, while they remained unchanged in the unsatisfactory outcome group. This study shows that 12 weeks of mirabegron treatment improves OAB symptoms and HRQL. Furthermore, urinary beta 3-adrenoceptor concentration may be a diagnostic biomarker for OAB.

Correlation between overactive bladder and detrusor overactivity: a retrospective study

INTRODUCTION

The primary objective of this study is to determine the prevalence of overactive bladder (OAB) and detrusor overactivity (DO) in female patients who were referred for urodynamic study (UDS) because of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). The secondary objective is to determine the subjective and objective differences between female OAB patients with and without DO.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All female patients who underwent UDS for LUTS between June 2016 and September 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. Personal history, medical history, physical examination, and validated questionnaires were collected. One-hour pad test and multichannel urodynamic study was performed. All statistical analyses were conducted by SAS 9.4. P-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

A total of 4184 female patients underwent UDS because of LUTS between June 2016 and September 2019; 1524 patients were analyzed for OAB or DO. The occurrence of OAB was 36.4%. The overall incidence of DO in OAB patients was 15.5%; 9.5% of all patients had DO findings on UDS, and 4.6% were incidental findings. There were significant differences among mean age, parity, ICIQ-UI SF, OABSS, POPDI-6, and all UDS parameters (except for maximal urethral pressure and pressure transmission ratio) between patients with and without DO. In patients with DO, there were no significant differences among age, parity, and BMI with or without OAB symptoms. However, there were significant differences among mean OABSS, ICIQ-UI SF, UDI-6, POPDI-6, IIQ-7, and pad test.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with DO are associated with older age, increased parity, greater urine leakage, and worse storage and micturition functions on UDS. Combinations of subjective and objective measurements are better predictive models for OAB patients.

Emergence of Non-photoresponsive Catalytic Techniques for Environmental Remediation and Energy Generation

Catalysis plays an important role in all the major applications and challenges in the environment, including energy generation, environmental purification and wastewater remediation. Although photocatalysts are desirable in addressing energy and environmental issues, they have some major drawbacks, such as solar sensitivity, low efficiency, and easy charge recombination, which limit their applications. Hence, it is imperative to design and explore new catalytic techniques that include nonphotoresponsive catalysts. In this review, the detailed possibilities, characteristics and prospects of non-photoresponsive catalysts, such as piezocatalysts, temperature-based catalysts such as thermocatalysts and pyrocatalysts, and tribocatalysts along with hybrid catalysts are described. The overall mechanism of each catalytic technique and its applications in different fields, such as energy generation, degradation of organic pollutants, wastewater remediation, ROS generation, and reduction of carbon dioxide, are discussed.

Factors determining the persistence of prenatal stress urinary incontinence 12 months postpartum

OBJECTIVE

Whilst many studies have explored the mechanisms of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) following various modes of delivery, few have examined outcomes of postpartum SUI in women who experienced new-onset SUI during their pregnancy. Our primary objective was to investigate the risk factors for persistent postpartum SUI in women with new-onset SUI during pregnancy at 1-year follow-up following vaginal delivery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

303 women with new-onset SUI during pregnancy who underwent vaginal delivery in a university hospital between 2014 and 2015 were included. In-person interviews were conducted for all participants on the second postpartum day, followed by phone interviews at 12 months postpartum, with completion of structured questionnaires, including Urogenital Distress Inventory Short Form (UDI-6) and Incontinence Impact Questionnaire Short Form (IIQ-7). Demographic, obstetrics and questionnaire scores were analyzed and compared between the group of women who experienced persistent postpartum SUI and the group who did not.

RESULTS

At 12 months postpartum, 16.5% (n = 50) of women had persistent postpartum SUI, with 83.5% (n = 253) experiencing resolution of SUI symptoms. Maternal age ≥35 years (aOR = 2.62; 95% CI, 1.40-4.87, P = 0.002), gestational age at birth ≥40 weeks (aOR = 2.21; 95% CI, 1.12-4.37, P = 0.022), and severe perineal lacerations (aOR = 2.32; 95% CI, 1.27-4.45, P = 0.013) were independent risk factors for persistent postpartum SUI for women following vaginal delivery at 1-year follow-up.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of persistent postpartum SUI at 1-year following vaginal delivery is 16.5%, with advanced maternal age, gestational age at birth ≥40 weeks and severe perineal lacerations being independent risk factors.

Use of low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy in the management of interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome patients: A thirty case study in a tertiary medical center

INTRODUCTION

Low-energy extracorporeal shock wave therapy (LiESWT) is a new potential treatment for intractable interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS), and this paper will evaluate its therapeutic effects on IC/BPS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective clinical trial enrolled 30 women who have been diagnosed with IC/PBS to receive LiESWT treatment at an intensity of 0.25 mJ/mm² and a frequency of 3 pulses/second, for a total of 3000 pulses within 8 weeks. And we assessed questionnaires (including O'Leary-Sant Interstitial Cystitis Symptom Index (ICSI)), 3-day voiding diary, and urodynamic study at the following intervals: 4 weeks of LiESWT (W4), 8 weeks of LiESWT (W8), 1-month follow-up (F1), 3-month follow-up (F3) after LiESWT, and 1 year follow-up (F12).

RESULTS

The primary outcome of questionnaires showed significant improvement of symptoms compared to baseline (W0), especially on ICSI(12.87 ± 3.44 before treatment and 7.87 ± 5.27 at F12, p < 0.05). 3-day voiding diary also revealed significant decrease in daytime voiding frequency (15.57 ± 5.22 times before treatment and 10.70 ± 4.21 times at F1, p < 0.05) and significant increase on average voiding volume (95.85 ± 35.30 mL before treatment and 161.27 ± 74.21 mL at F1, p < 0.05). However, there were no significant differences in all parameters of the urodynamic study.

CONCLUSION

LiESWT can mitigate pain and lower urinary tract symptoms and improve the quality of life in IC/PBS patients, but does not increase the maximal cystometric capacity.

Ultrasonography and clinical outcomes following anti-incontinence procedures (Solyx™ tape): a 3-year post-operative review

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Our primary objective was to study objective and subjective outcomes of patients with urodynamic stress incontinence (USI) following Solyx™ at 3-year follow-up. Our secondary objective was to evaluate ultrasonographic tape and bladder neck position and mobility.

METHODS

Records of 88 women who received Solyx™ surgery between September 2015 and December 2017 were reviewed. Ultrasonographic sling evaluation was performed at 6 months and 3 years postoperatively. Primary outcomes were objective and subjective cure of stress incontinence, defined as no involuntary urine leakage during filling cystometry, 1-h pad test < 2 g and negative response to Urogenital Distress Inventory-6 Question 3.

RESULTS

Subjective and objective cure rates at 3 years were 85.2% and 87.5%, respectively, with no complications reported. QOL improvements were maintained. Bladder neck position and mobility had no significant change between 6-month and 3-year follow-up. Tape position demonstrated significant shifts in the y-axis at both rest and Valsalva and in the x-axis at Valsalva between 6 months and 3 years; overall mobility was unchanged. Percentile of sling location remained unchanged at 60.1%, as did percentage of urethral kinking (67.9%) achieved. Risk factors for failure were bladder neck hypomobility postoperatively and no urethral kinking postoperatively.

CONCLUSIONS

There was good sustained objective and subjective cure with improved QOL in women who underwent Solyx™ for USI at 3-year follow-up. Ultrasonographic evaluation showed a tape position shift upwards and backwards with unchanged tape and bladder neck mobility. Percentile of sling location and rates of dynamic kinking were maintained.

De novo detrusor overactivity and urgency after mid-urethral slings for urodynamic stress incontinence

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

The objective was to identify incidence and risk factors of de novo urgency and detrusor overactivity (DO) following mid-urethral slings (MUS) in patients with urodynamic stress incontinence (USI) without urgency.

METHODS

A total of 688 women between January 2004 and July 2017 were reviewed retrospectively. De novo urgency was established with a positive response to question 2 on the Urogenital Distress Inventory-6 questionnaire (UDI-6). Objective cure of USI is no involuntary urine leakage during filling cystometry and pad test < 2 g. Subjective cure of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is defined as a negative response to question 3 on UDI-6. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify risk factors for failure.

RESULTS

Forty-four out of 688 women (6.4%) developed de novo urgency, with 16 out of 688 (2.3%) demonstrating de novo DO. Subjective cure for women with de novo urgency was significantly lower at 35 out of 44 (79.5%) compared with 556 out of 644 (86.3%) in those with no urgency (p < 0.001). Objective cure for women with de novo DO was significantly lower at 8 out of 16 (50%) compared with 599 out of 672 (89.1%) in those with detrusor stability (p < 0.001). Quality of life improved for all. Age ≥ 66 (OR, 1.23; 1.07), increased bladder sensation (OR, 4.18; 3.80), lower bladder capacity (OR, 5.28; 4.97), lower maximum urethral closure pressure (OR, 2.32; 5.20), and pad test > 100 g (OR, 1.08; 1.15) were independent risk factors for de novo urgency and DO. Diabetes (OR, 1.32) was an independent predictor of de novo urgency.

CONCLUSION

Cure is significantly reduced in women who report symptoms of de novo urgency or demonstrate DO after MUS at 1 year. Independent risk factors include age ≥ 66, increased bladder sensation, lower bladder capacity, lower maximum urethral closure pressure, greater pad loss, and diabetes.

Impact of intrinsic sphincter deficiency on mid-urethral sling outcomes

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Our primary objective was to study outcomes of patients with intrinsic sphincter deficiency (ISD) following mid-urethral slings (MUS) at 1-year. Our secondary objective was to delineate factors affecting success in these patients.

METHODS

Six hundred eighty-eight patients who had MUS between January 2004 and April 2017 were reviewed retrospectively; 48 women were preoperatively diagnosed with ISD. All completed urodynamic studies and validated quality-of-life (QOL) questionnaires at baseline and 1 year. Primary outcomes were objective and subjective cure of stress incontinence, defined as no involuntary urine leakage during filling cystometry and 1-h pad test < 2 g and negative response to Urogenital Distress Inventory-6 Question 3. Ultrasound was performed to determine tape position, urethral mobility and kinking at 1 year.

RESULTS

Women with ISD had significantly lower objective and subjective cure rates of 52.1% and 47.9%, respectively, compared to an overall of 88.2% and 85.9%. QOL scores significantly improved in those with successful surgeries. The sling type did not make a difference. Multivariate logistic regression identified reduced urethral mobility [OR 2.11 (1.24-3.75)], lower maximum urethral closure pressure (MUCP) [OR 1.61 (1.05-3.41)] and tape position [OR 3.12 (1.41-8.71)] to be associated with higher odds of failed slings for women with ISD.

CONCLUSIONS

Although there are good overall success in women undergoing MUS, those with ISD have significantly lower cure rates at 1 year. Factors related to failure include reduced urethral mobility, low MUCP and relative tape position further away from the bladder neck. Optimal management of patients with ISD and reduced urethral mobility remains challenging.

Beneficial effect of Bletilla striata extract solution on zymosan-induced interstitial cystitis in rat

AIMS

Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a chronic pain syndrome that is characterized by suprapubic pain upon bladder filling. Bletilla striata, a well-known traditional Chinese herb with established efficacy in wound healing and anti-inflammation, was hypothesized to improve the symptoms of IC possibly though forming a physical barrier that could isolate the bladder tissue from irritants. This study was conducted to evaluate the beneficial effects of intravesical treatment with B. striata extract solution (BSES) on visceral pain and bladder function of rats with zymosan-induced IC.

METHODS

Thirty female rats were randomly divided into control group, zymosan-induced cystitis rats treated with normal saline (Z + NS), and zymosan-induced cystitis rats treated with BSES (Z + BSES). All rats underwent evaluation for abdominal withdrawal reflex (AWR) scores to assess visceral hypersensitivity, cystometrography, and electromyogram (EMG) of both external urethral sphincter and bladder detrusor. Data were analyzed by one way analysis of variance.

RESULTS

The Z + NS group had an increased visceral hypersensitivity as compared to control group. Rats treated with BSES (Z + BSES group) had decreased AWR scores and amplitude of bladder detrusor-EMG. Besides, BSES treatment improved overactive bladder with significant effects on the extend of micturition interval and increase of storage of urine.

CONCLUSIONS

Intravesical instillation of BSES can significantly alleviate zymosan-induced visceral hypersensitivity and bladder overactivity associated with IC. This study suggested that intravesical instillation with BSES might be a promising treatment for IC.

Ascending aorta replacement vs. total aortic arch replacement in the treatment of acute type A dissection: a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) is a severe, rapidly progressing disease which typically requires patients to undergo emergency surgical intervention. Despite advancements in surgical procedures, still, ATAAD remains a surgical emergency associated with high mortality. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to compare whether either ascending aorta replacement (AR) or total aortic arch replacement (TR) leads to improved short- and long-term clinical outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A search of PubMed, Embase, Science Direct, Web of Science, SciELO, BIOSIS, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) databases were supplemented by searching through bibliographies of key articles. Thereafter, data on early and late prognostic factors were extracted. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 15 studies were performed to compare whether either AR or TR leads to a reduction in the risk of in-hospital and short-term mortality, postoperative complications, re-operation rate, and long-term mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 15 cohort studies (n = 2822 patients with ATAAD; AR with HA, partial arch = 1911, TR = 911) were deemed eligible and included in the meta-analysis. Compared with TR, AR led to a significantly lower risk of in-hospital mortality (RR = 0.77; 95% CI: 0.61-0.96), shorter cardiopulmonary bypass time (CPB, mean difference = -53.09; 95% CI: -56.68--49.50), circulatory arrest time (CA, mean difference = -8.09; 95% CI: -9.04-7.15), and antegrade cerebral perfusion (ACP, mean difference = -28.62; 95% CI: -30.23--27.00). Differences in the incidence rates of neurological dysfunctions and renal dialysis were not significant. The pooled rate of aortic re-operation was lower in TR group (AR 7.6% vs. TR 5.3%), albeit not significantly (risk ratio = 1.39; 95% CI: 0.94-2.07; p = 0.10).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings demonstrate that AR is associated with a lower early mortality rate and shorter operative times overall. Nevertheless, the incidence of postoperative complications in patients undergoing AR is comparable to that of patients undergoing TR. Further prospective follow-up data needs to be collected and analyzed to discern whether there are statistically significant differences in the risks of re-operation and long-term mortality between AR and TR procedures.

Anterior-Apical Transvaginal Mesh (Surelift) for Advanced Urogenital Prolapse: Surgical and Functional Outcomes at 1 Year

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To determine the objective and subjective outcomes of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery using a modified Surelift system (Neomedic International, Barcelona, Spain) and to evaluate surgical complications and postoperative impact on quality of life (QOL) and lower urinary tract symptoms.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Tertiary-care university hospital.

PATIENTS

Patients with symptomatic anterior or apical POP stage III and above.

INTERVENTIONS

All patients underwent pelvic reconstructive surgery with a modified Surelift transvaginal mesh kit.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Eighty-three women who underwent pelvic reconstructive surgery with a modified Surelift for symptomatic anterior or apical prolapse stage III and above from April 2018 to January 2019 were reviewed retrospectively. All completed a 72-hour voiding diary, urodynamic study, and multiple validated QOL questionnaires at baseline and at between 6 and 12 months postoperatively. Descriptive statistics were used for demographics and perioperative data. Paired-samples t test and the McNemar test were applied for comparison of pre- and postoperative continuous and categoric data, respectively. The primary outcomes were the objective cure of POP, defined as anterior and apical prolapse Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification System ≤ stage I, and subjective cure on the basis of negative answers to Pelvic Organ Prolapse Distress Inventory 6. The objective and subjective cure rates at 1 year were 97.6% and 92.8%, respectively. There were significant improvements in QOL scores postoperatively. Although bladder outlet obstruction improved, de novo urodynamic stress incontinence and stress urinary incontinence were increased at 18.9% and 21.6%, respectively, at 1-year follow-up. The mesh extrusion rate was 4.8%.

CONCLUSION

A modified Surelift has good objective and subjective cure rates at 1 year postoperatively with 4.8% mesh extrusion rate. There was significant improvement in lower urinary tract symptoms and QOL. De novo urodynamic stress incontinence at 6 months to 12 months was increased, but it was not sufficiently bothersome to warrant surgery.

Effects of transforming growth factor-β1 on plasminogen activation in stem cells from the apical papilla: role of activating receptor-like kinase 5/Smad2 and mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signalling

AIM

To study the effects of TGF-β1 on the plasminogen activation (PA) system of stem cells from the apical papilla (SCAP) and its signalling.

METHODOLOGY

SCAP cells were isolated from the apical papilla of immature permanent teeth extracted for orthodontic reasons. They were exposed to various concentration of TGF-β1 with/without pretreatment and coincubation by SB431542 (ALK/Smad2/3 inhibitor), or U0126 (MEK/ERK inhibitor). MTT assay, Western blotting and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were used to detect their effects on cell viability, and the protein expression of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA), uPA receptor (uPAR) and their secretion. The paired Student's t-test was used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

TGF-β1 significantly stimulated PAI-1 and soluble uPAR (suPAR) secretion of SCAP cells (P < 0.05), whereas uPA secretion was inhibited. Accordingly, TGF-β1 induced both PAI-1 and uPAR protein expression of SCAP cells. SB431542 (an ALK5/Smad2/3 inhibitor) pretreatment and coincubation prevented the TGF-β1-induced PAI-1 and uPAR of SCAP. U0126 attenuated the TGF-β1-induced expression/secretion of uPAR, but not PAI-1 in SCAP. SB431542 reversed the TGF-β1-induced decline of uPA.

CONCLUSIONS

TGF-β1 may affect the repair/regeneration activities of SCAP via differential increase or decrease of PAI-1, uPA and uPAR. These effects induced by TGF-β1 are associated with ALK5/Smad2/3 and MEK/ERK activation. Elucidation the signalling pathways and effects of TGF-β1 is useful for treatment of immature teeth with open apex by revascularization/revitalization procedures and tissue repair/regeneration.

Dissecting of the paravesical space associated with lower urinary tract dysfunction - a rat model

To determine the association of opening the paravesical space in relation to its occurrence of de novo SUI in an animal model. Thirty five female Sprague Dawley rats were divided into 5 groups of 7 rats each: Control group, Sham groups(F, H), and Study groups(MF, MH). Groups labeled with "F" had the paravesical space opened, "H" had tissue dissection with no opening of the space, and "M" had mesh implanted inside the vaginal wall. Urodynamic studies, immunohistochemical analysis, and western blot were done at day 40. The mean weight and age of 35 rats were 302.1 ± 25.1 grams and 12.8 ± 1.2 weeks old. No significant differences were noted among the control, Sham F, Sham H, Study MF, and Study MH on the voiding pressure and voided volume. The Sham F and Study MF (opened paravesical space) groups had significantly lower values on leak point pressures (LPP) (p = 0.026; p < 0.001) and shorter voiding intervals (p = 0.032; p = 0.005) when compared to other groups. Immunohistochemical analysis showed IL-1 and TNF-α to be intensely increased for the Study MF group (p = 0.003; p = <0.001). MMP-2 and CD 31 markers were also significantly higher in the Study MH and MF group. NGF expression was significantly increased in the Study MF and Sham F groups. Thus, opening of the paravesical space causes an increased inflammatory reaction, which leads to tissue destruction and lower urinary tract dysfunction, exemplified in the study with low leak point pressure and shortened voiding intervals.

Clinical outcomes on tension-releasing suture appendage on single-incision sling devices for postoperative voiding dysfunction involving undue tape tension

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

To determine the clinical outcomes of adding a tension-releasing suture (TRS) appendage for manipulation of over-tensioned single-incision slings (SIS) as a means to relieve postoperative voiding dysfunction.

METHODS

A retrospective observational study conducted from January 2010 to July 2017. The records of patients with urodynamic stress incontinence (USI) without needing concurrent procedures who underwent anti-incontinence surgery using MiniArc, Solyx, and Ajust with voiding dysfunction were collated and analyzed. The primary outcome measure was the recovery of normal post-void residual urine (PVR) after TRS manipulation. The secondary outcome measures were the pain intensity noted during manipulation (quantified by visual analog scale) and the continence rate [assessed by (1) objective cure: 1-h pad test weight < 2 g and absence of USI; (2) subjective cure index score ≤ 1 on question 3 of the UDI-6: "Urine leakage related to physical activity, coughing, or sneezing?"].

RESULTS

There were 73 patients with high post-void residual (PVR) urine. The 42 (9.5%) patients with over-tensioned slings were managed with TRS manipulation while the 31 patients (7%) with high PVR and no sling over-tension were managed with intermittent catheterization. All patients in both groups regained normal PVR. The TRS-manipulated group demonstrated an objective cure rate of 92.9% (39/42) and subjective cure rate of 91% (38/42). Pain experienced during TRS manipulation was significantly higher with the Ajust system (p = 0.018). Three patients had persistence of USI, two with MiniArc and one with Solyx.

CONCLUSIONS

The TRS manipulation is a well-tolerated procedure that can effectively relieve voiding dysfunction for over-tensioned SIS without affecting continence cure rates.

Comparative study of transobturator sling with and without concomitant prolapse surgery for female urodynamic stress incontinence

AIM

To demonstrate the clinical and urodynamic outcomes of transobturator sling (TOT) with or without concomitant prolapse surgery for the treatment of urodynamic stress incontinence (USI).

METHODS

We recruited 143 consecutive patients diagnosed with USI, who received outside-in TOT in a university hospital. Preoperative and postoperative examinations were implemented using structured urogynecological questionnaires, pelvic organ prolapse quantification examination and urodynamic testing. Patient demographics, surgical and urodynamic results were compared between TOT with and without concomitant prolapse surgery.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up was 30.1 months (range 12-57). Postoperative stress urinary incontinence (SUI) occurred in 10 (7%) patients at 3 months and 10 (7%) patients at 12 months postoperatively. There was no significant difference in prevalence of postoperative SUI between groups of TOT only and TOT combined with pelvic surgery. Preoperative urodynamic results demonstrated that TOT only (n = 96) had a higher maximal flow rate and a lower residual urine amount when compared to TOT combined with pelvic surgery (n = 47). A significant decrease in maximal urethral closure pressure (MUCP) was found in 119 patients who received postoperative urodynamic examination. In comparison with preoperative urodynamic data, postoperative urodynamic results showed a significant decrease in MUCP in the TOT combined with prolapse surgery group, but no significant urodynamic changes in the group of TOT only.

CONCLUSION

Both TOT and TOT combined with prolapse surgery can be effective in correcting SUI in patients with USI 12 months postoperatively, with significant changes in MUCP.

Sacrospinous ligament fixation for hysteropexy: does concomitant anterior and posterior fixation improve surgical outcome?

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Uterine preservation in uterine prolapse is an option for young patients. We hypothesized that sacrospinous hysteropexy (SSH) with anchorage to both the anterior and posterior cervix (SSH-ap) would have a better outcome than SSH with anchorage to the posterior cervix only (SSH-p).

METHODS

This was a retrospective study including 75 patients who underwent SSH at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital between March 2008 and August 2013. Five were excluded due to incomplete data. Of the remaining 70 patients, 35 underwent SSH-p between March 2008 and June 2011, and 35 underwent SSH-ap between June 2010 and August 2013. The primary outcome was the objective anatomical result, and a successful outcome was considered anatomical correction (POP-Q stage 1 or less) of anterior and apical prolapse. Subjective outcome was evaluated using the POPDI-6 questionnaire, and a patient response of "No or mild abdominal organ falling out sensation" together with "No or mild heaviness" was considered to indicate a successful outcome. Anterior fornix and cervical diameter measurements were included. The secondary outcome was quality of life according to the UDI-6, IIQ-7, POPDI-6, and PISQ-12 questionnaires. The 3-year outcome was used for comparison.

RESULTS

The subjective overall cure rates were significantly different between the SSH-p and SSH-ap groups (74.3% and 94.3%, respectively; p = 0.023). However, the objective overall cure rates were not significantly different (74.3% and 82.9%, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Anchorage of the anterior cervix and vaginal wall together with the usual posterior anchorage yield better subjective outcomes and apical suspension at 3 years after surgery than anchorage of the posterior cervix and vaginal wall only. The cervix position affected the subjective outcome. Concurrent trachelectomy did not affect the outcome.

Predictors of voiding dysfunction following extensive vaginal pelvic reconstructive surgery

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

The objective of this study was to identify the predictors of postoperative voiding dysfunction in women following extensive vaginal pelvic reconstructive surgery.

METHODS

We enrolled 1,425 women who had pelvic organ prolapse of POP-Q stage III or IV and had undergone vaginal pelvic reconstructive surgery with or without transvaginal mesh insertion from January 2006 to December 2014. All subjects were required to complete a 72-h voiding diary, and the IIQ-7, UDI-6, POPDI-6 and PISQ-12 questionnaires. Urodynamic study was performed preoperatively and postoperatively.

RESULTS

Of the 1,425 women, 54 were excluded due to incomplete data, and 1,017 of the remaining 1,371 (74.2 %) had transvaginal mesh surgery and 247 (18 %) had concurrent midurethral sling insertion. Of 380 women (27.7 %) with preoperative voiding dysfunction, 37 (9.7 %) continued to have voiding dysfunction postoperatively. Of the remaining 991 women (72.3 %) with normal preoperative voiding function, 11 (1.1 %) developed de novo voiding dysfunction postoperatively. The overall incidence of postoperative voiding dysfunction was 3.5 % (48/1,371). Those with concurrent midurethral sling insertion were at higher risk of developing voiding dysfunction postoperatively (OR 3.12, 95 % CI 1.79 - 5.46, p < 0.001). Diabetes mellitus, preoperative detrusor pressure at maximal flow (Dmax) <10 cm H₂O and postvoid residual volume ≥200 ml were significant risk factors for the development of postoperative voiding dysfunction (OR 3.07, 1.84 and 2.15, respectively; 95 % CI 1.69 - 5.60, 1.39 - 2.91 and 1.10 - 3.21, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Diabetes mellitus, concurrent midurethral sling insertion, preoperative Dmax <10 cm H₂O and postvoid residual volume ≥200 ml in patients with advanced pelvic organ prolapse were risk factors for the development of postoperative voiding dysfunction after vaginal pelvic reconstructive surgery. Therefore, counseling is worthwhile before considering vaginal pelvic reconstructive surgery.

In vitro activity of linezolid against clinical Gram-positive bacterial isolates from Taiwan: an area with a high prevalence of antibiotic resistance

The prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in Taiwan is due to the heavy use of antimicrobial agents in both animal husbandry and clinical practice over the past decades. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of linezolid were established for 371 clinical isolates of staphylococci, pneumococci, enterococci and group A streptococci from Taiwan. All isolates tested including those resistant to beta-lactams, erythromycin, vancomycin and quinupristin-dalfopristin were uniformly susceptible to linezolid, with MICs ranging from 0.125 to 2 mg/l. Our data support the observation that there is no cross-resistance between linezolid and other classes of antimicrobial substances.

Baicalein induces a dual growth arrest by modulating multiple cell cycle regulatory molecules

Baicalein, a flavonoid present in the root of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, has been reported to inhibit cell proliferation in several types of cells. In this study, the effect of baicalein on cell growth and the mechanism of growth modulation were examined in primary cultured rat heart endothelial cells. Here, we report that treatment with 100-microM baicalein caused an almost complete inhibition of cell proliferation after 5 days of incubation. Baicalein mediated G1 and G2 growth arrest accompanied by the down-regulation of cyclin D2, cyclin A, cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (Cdk1) and cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (Cdk2), and up-regulation of p15(Ink4B), p21(CIP1/Waf1), p53 and cyclin E. Evaluation of the kinase activity of cyclin-Cdk complexes showed that baicalein decreased Cdk1, Cdk2, cyclin D2 and cyclin A expression in endothelial cells, leading to markedly reduced Cdk/cyclin-associated kinase activities. These results suggest that baicalein inhibits the proliferation of rat heart endothelial cells via G1 and G2 arrest in association with the down-regulation of the expression and function of Cdk1, Cdk2, cyclin D2 and cyclin A proteins, and up-regulation of cyclin E, p15(Ink4B), p53 and p21(CIP1/Waf1).

Paraneoplastic pemphigus in association with a retroperitoneal Castleman's disease presenting with a lichen planus pemphigoides-like eruption. A case report and review of literature

A 50-year-old man presented with severe mucosal erosions of the lips, oral cavity and perianal area, a lichen planus-like eruption on the trunk and extremities and scaly plaques of the palms and soles. The clinical impression was of Stevens--Johnson syndrome, or paraneoplastic pemphigus (PNP). Histopathology revealed vacuolar interface and lichenoid dermatitis with dyskeratosis and suprabasal acantholytic vesiculation. Direct immunofluorescence showed deposition of IgG in the intercellular space and linear deposition of C3 along the basal membrane zone. Indirect immunofluorescence revealed circulating IgG with intercellular staining of the epithelium of rat urinary bladder. Western blotting demonstrated bands of 250- and 230-kDa antigens. The clinical, histological and immunological features were consistent with the lichen planus pemphigoides variant of PNP. A retroperitoneal hyaline-vascular Castleman's disease was detected and excised. The skin lesions worsened initially after tumour resection but improved gradually, leaving extensive melanosis after cyclosporin and mycophenolate mofetil treatment.

In vitro aberrant gene expression as the indicator of lead-induced neurotoxicity in U-373MG cells

Lead is an important neurobehavioral toxicant and may interfere with developmental processes in the brain resulting in impairment of its functions. U-373MG, a human glioma cell line, was cultured in Dulbecco's modified Eagles' medium supplemented with either 20 or 10% FBS (fetal bovine serum) to explore the possible indications for lead-induced toxicity. Although lead did not affect cell growth rate in concentrations ranging from 0.01 to 10 microM, it substantially altered gene expression analyzed by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. With 10% FBS culture, lead affected the gene expression in a dose-dependent relationship. It enhanced the expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), but decreased those of interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta), interleukin-6 (IL-6), gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) transaminase, and glutamine synthetase. With 20% FBS culture, lead also profoundly increased TNF-alpha and IL-1beta; however, it did not extensively affect the other genes examined above. Thus, the highly sensitive changes of gene expression of these cytokines or metabolic enzymes after treatments with lead acetate evidenced their usefulness as indicators for in vitro measurement of lead-induced neurotoxicity.

Cryptococcal meningitis in non-HIV-infected patients

There are few reports on cryptococcal meningitis in non-HIV-infected patients in subtropical areas. We reviewed 94 non-HIV-infected patients microbiologically diagnosed with cryptococcal meningitis and hospitalized at National Taiwan University Hospital, 1977-1996. Forty-two patients (44.7%) had underlying diseases. The main initial manifestations were headache (86.2%), vomiting (72.3%) and fever (69. 1%). The 30 patients with T-cell suppression had more acute illnesses (median duration of symptoms: 14 days vs. 29 days), less typical presentations of meningitis, and reduced inflammatory responses compared with the 64 without T cell suppression. There was no statistical difference between patients who received amphotericin B treatment for 10 weeks and those received amphotericin B with subsequent fluconazole treatment, in terms of mortality rate and recurrence rate. Seventy-five patients (79.8%) had satisfactory clinical responses, and two relapsed. Eighteen patients died (19.1%) and 10 of these died within 2 weeks of hospitalization. Patients in this series had outcomes comparable with those from temperate and even tropical countries with high percentages of immunocompetent hosts. Factors significantly associated with death were lymphoma, semicoma, leukocytosis, and initial high titres of cryptococcal antigen in cerebral spinal fluid (especially >/=1 : 512). On multivariate analysis, lymphoma and initial high cryptococcal antigen titres were independent predictors of mortality.

Clinical features and in vitro susceptibilities of two varieties of Cryptococcus neoformans in Taiwan

One hundred years after introduction of the Eucalyptus tree to Taiwan, a predominantly subtropical island, we analyzed clinical and microbiological data of 59 patients with Cryptococcus neoformans infection hospitalized at National Taiwan University Hospital during 1982 to 1997. There were 38 (64.4%) cases of cryptococcosis caused by the var. neoformans and 21 (35.6%) caused by the var. gattii. Thirty-three patients (55.9%) had impaired T cell function, which included 12 patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Eleven of the 12 patients with AIDS were diagnosed after 1995, and 11 cases were caused by var. neoformans. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) determined by the NCCLS broth microdilution method using antibiotic medium 3 improved the discrimination of in vitro susceptibility against amphotericin B and demonstrated that var. gattii isolates were less susceptible (geometric means 0.25 microg/ml versus 0.64 microg/ml, P < 0.001). In addition, a higher proportion of var. gattii were less susceptible to flucytosine as compared with var. neoformans (35.0% versus 64.9%, P = 0.030). There was no seasonal clustering for isolation of var. neoformans, though infections caused by var. gattii peaked in July and August. Compared with the first study of cryptococcosis (1957-1972) at NTUH, this study demonstrated the increase in immunocompromised and elderly patients, as well as a higher proportion of Cryptococcus isolated from blood or bone marrow. Facing the increasing adaptive plantation of Eucalyptus in Taiwan, the importance of field study regarding the role of Eucalyptus plantations in Taiwan and occurrence of cryptococcosis in human beings cannot be over-emphasized.

High prevalence of antibiotic resistance of common pathogenic bacteria in Taiwan. The Antibiotic Resistance Study Group of the Infectious Disease Society of the Republic of China

We analyzed the antimicrobial susceptibilities of all clinical isolates of 14 common pathogenic bacteria recovered from patients in eight medical centers in Taiwan during 1995 and 1996. Susceptibility to commonly used antimicrobial agents was tested by the disk diffusion method as recommended by the National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards. Of the Staphylococcus aureus isolates, 59.3% and 62% were oxacillin-resistant in 1995 and 1996, respectively, whereas 63.2% of the coagulase-negative staphylococci isolates during the study period were oxacillin-resistant. The rate of penicillin-resistance among Streptococcus pneumoniae isolates was 39.7% in 1995 and 53.7% in 1996. Macrolide-resistance was found in 71.4%, 42.1%, and 46.7% of S. pneumoniae, beta-hemolytic streptococci, and viridans streptococci, respectively, in 1996. Less than 2% of the enterococcal isolates were vancomycin resistant, but 77% of them were gentamicin resistant. Resistance to gentamicin was also common in Enterobacteriaceae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Acinetobacter baumannii. Various degrees of resistance to ampicillin, piperacillin, cephalosporins, aztreonam, and ciprofloxacin were detected in Enterobacteriaceae, P. aeruginosa, and A. baumannii. More than 55% of Haemophilus influenzae isolates were ampicillin resistant. In summary, resistance to many antimicrobial agents in various common pathogenic bacteria is very common in Taiwan. Our results implicate that antibiotic resistance in the developing countries need to be monitored closely.

Imported malaria: successful treatment of 31 patients in the era of chloroquine resistance

The diagnosis and management of imported malaria presents a continuing challenge in developed countries, including Taiwan. We retrospectively analyzed the records of all 31 patients with imported malaria treated at National Taiwan University Hospital from January 1984 through December 1998. Plasmodium falciparum was identified as the causative malarial parasite in 18 patients, P. vivax in 12, and P. ovale in one. All 31 patients had fever, but only 13 presented with the characteristic fever pattern. The most common initial laboratory abnormalities were thrombocytopenia (20/31), mild hyperbilirubinemia (20/31), and leukopenia (7/31). The median time from the onset of fever to the correct diagnosis was 4 days for P. falciparum and 5 days for P. vivax. In 28 cases, the clue that led to early diagnosis was the patient's travel history. Quinine, but not chloroquine, was effective in 17 out of 18 cases of falciparum malaria. Three patients treated with intravenous quinine required a change of regimen because of life-threatening quinine toxicity; artesunate served as a safe and effective alternative in this situation. While most patients with tertian malaria were cured with the standard chloroquine and primaquine regimen, a higher dosage was required for one case acquired in Papua New Guinea. All patients, including two with severe malaria, survived. We conclude that, the mortality of imported malaria in the chloroquine resistance era can be minimized with early recognition by obtaining a thorough travel history, and instituting appropriate antimalarial chemotherapy based on precise identification of species. Quinine toxicity should be closely monitoried, especially when this drug is given intravenously.

Antithyroid-drug-induced agranulocytosis complicated by life-threatening infections

Agranulocytosis is a rare complication of antithyroid drugs, and the aetiologies of community-acquired, life-threatening infections in patients taking these drugs have not previously been systematically described. Of 5653 hyperthyroid patients treated with antithyroid drugs at National Taiwan University Hospital between January 1987 and December 1997, 13 (0.23%) developed agranulocytosis with life-threatening infections. The most common presentations were fever (92%) and sore throat (85%). Initial clinical diagnoses were acute pharyngitis (46%), acute tonsillitis (38%), pneumonia (15%) and urinary tract infection (8%). Positive blood cultures from six patients yielded Pseudomonas aeruginosa (3), Escherichia coli (1), Staphylococcus aureus (1), Capnocytophaga species (1). Two patients died of uncontrolled infection, thyroid storm and multiple organ failure. Cases of antithyroid-drug-induced agranulocytosis in the English language literature are reviewed; Gram-negative bacilli, including Klebsiella pneumoniae (4 patients) and P. aeruginosa (3), were the most common pathogens in clinical isolates. Our observation and review suggest that broad-spectrum antibiotics with anti-pseudomonal activity should be given to patients with antithyroid drug-induced agranulocytosis who present with severe infection.

In vitro activity of quinupristin/dalfopristin against clinical isolates of common gram-positive bacteria in Taiwan

The MICs of quinupristin/dalfopristin against common Gram-positive bacteria isolated from various clinical specimens at a university hospital in Taiwan were determined by the agar dilution method. The tested bacteria included methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (MSSA), methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis (MRSE), methicillin-susceptible S. epidermidis (MSSE), Streptococcus pyogenes, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Enterococcus faecalis. With the exception of E. faecalis all bacteria were susceptible to quinupristin/dalfopristin. The MIC50 and MIC90 were, respectively, 0.25 microgram/mL and 0.5 microgram/mL for both MRSA and MSSA; 0.25 microgram/mL and 0.5 microgram/mL for MRSE; 0.25 microgram/mL and 0.25 microgram/mL for MSSE; 0.125 microgram/mL and 0.125 microgram/mL for S. pyogenes; and < or = 0.03 microgram/mL and 0.25 microgram/mL for S. pneumoniae. Eighty-two percent of the tested E. faecalis isolates were intermediately resistant or resistant to quinupristin/dalfopristin, with an MIC50 of 2 micrograms/mL and an MIC90 of 4 micrograms/mL. Quinupristin/dalfopristin seems to be a promising antimicrobial agent against common Gram-positive bacteria other than E. faecalis in Taiwan.

In vitro activity of meropenem against common pathogenic bacteria isolated in Taiwan

The in vitro antimicrobial activity of meropenem, in comparison with nine other antimicrobial agents, against 12 different common pathogenic bacteria were evaluated to know the susceptibility of common bacteria to meropenem in Taiwan. Meropenem was active against most Gram-positive, Gram-negative, and anaerobic bacteria, including methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterobacter cloacae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Burkholderia cepacia, Acinetobacter baumannii, Haemophilus influenzae, and Bacteroides fragilis. For many of them, meropenem was the most active one in comparison with other broad-spectrum cephalosporins, aztreonam, imipenem, and ciprofloxacin. It is concluded that meropenem is a very active agent against most common pathogenic bacteria. It is uncommon for these common bacteria, except MRSA and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, to be resistant to meropenem in Taiwan, where a high prevalence of resistance to other antimicrobial agents was found in many of the common bacteria.

Effect of UV exposure and beta-carotene supplementation on delayed-type hypersensitivity response in healthy older men

OBJECTIVES

The aims of this study were to determine if ultraviolet light (UV) is immunosuppressive in healthy older males, if beta-carotene (betaC) supplementation could prevent any observed UV-induced immunosuppression, and to compare these effects with those observed previously in younger men.

METHODS

The study was a placebo-controlled, randomized trial that employed a 2 x 2 factorial design. Healthy older men (mean age 65.5 years) received 30 mg betaC or placebo daily throughout the 47-day trial, while on a low carotenoid diet. After 28 days, half of each group received 12 suberythemic exposures to UV over a 16-day period. Delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) tests and plasma carotenoid assays were performed at baseline, pre-UV and post-UV time points, with DTH testing performed on an area of skin protected from UV exposure.

RESULTS

UV exposure resulted in significantly suppressed DTH response in the placebo group but not in the betaC-UV group. While there was no significant interaction between betaC supplementation and UV on DTH response, there was a significant inverse relationship between final plasma betaC concentration and extent of UV-induced suppression of DTH response. A similar correlation existed among subjects not exposed to UV.

CONCLUSIONS

Suberythemic UV exposure was immunosuppressive, as measured by DTH response, in healthy older men as in younger men. Higher plasma betaC was significantly associated with maintenance of DTH response, although the extent of protective effect of betaC appeared less than previously observed in younger subjects. The attenuated effect of betaC in the older UV-exposed subjects may have resulted in part from muted plasma betaC responses to betaC supplementation and/or higher plasma vitamin E levels than those of younger men. The finding that stronger DTH responses were associated with higher plasma betaC concentrations in both UV and non-UV subjects further supports a role for this nutrient in immunomodulation.

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of transdermal nicotine patch for smoking cessation

Smoking cessation is an arduous process because nicotine withdrawal syndrome, which occurs following sudden interruption of nicotine use in long-term smokers, frequently prevents them from giving up the habit. Nicotine supplement systems may relieve smokers' nicotine withdrawal symptoms and, thus, help in the process of abstinence from smoking. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effectiveness and safety of a 30-mg transdermal nicotine patch in a smoking cessation program for Chinese smokers. In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 30 heavy smokers, who had smoked more than 20 cigarettes per day for more than a year, were treated with 30-mg transdermal nicotine patches, and 32 heavy smokers were given placebo patches during a 6-week smoking cessation program. The clinical characteristics of the two groups were similar. After 6 weeks, the use of the transdermal nicotine patch was associated with markedly reduced nicotine dependence and severity of withdrawal symptoms. Nineteen (63%, 95% confidence interval, CI, 46%-80%) of the smokers treated with the transdermal nicotine patch had successfully quit smoking at the end of the program (6 weeks) and nine (30%, 95% CI 14%-46%) remained abstinent 1 year later. In contrast, only 11 (34%, 95% CI 18%-50%) of the smokers in the placebo group had successfully stopped smoking after 6 weeks, and three remained abstinent 1 year later (9%, 95% CI 0%-19%). However, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups of smokers after 1 year of follow-up (p = 0.08). Side-effects were minimal and did not affect the efficacy of the skin patch. The results indicate that the transdermal nicotine patch is an effective aid in smoking cessation programs.

Review of the medical management of postoperative cataract complications

BACKGROUND

With the increasing number of surgeons using phacoemulsification techniques combined with sutureless scleral tunnel and clear corneal incisions for cataract surgery, the majority of patients will undergo an uncomplicated course of visual rehabilitation requiring no more than standard topical antibiotic and steroid regimen. Occasionally--even with an uneventful surgical course--postoperative complications arise. Many of these postoperative complications can be managed medically, without surgical intervention. Topical and oral glaucoma and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents play an important role in the management of postoperative cataract complications.

METHODS

A review of the common postoperative complications and their medical management using topical and oral pharmaceutical agents are presented. Emphasis is placed on current trends in treatment following contemporary cataract surgery.

CONCLUSION

Although the complication rate is reduced with modern cataract surgery techniques, the primary care clinician should be prepared to identify and manage the most common clinical conditions. Armed with the proper knowledge of ophthalmic medications and their possible ocular and systemic interactions, optometrists can successfully manage and co-manage many postoperative cataract complications. Common postoperative complications are reviewed, along with current treatment regiments and dosage forms.

Tuberculous peritonitis: analysis of 35 cases

Thirty five patients with tuberculous peritonitis were studied retrospectively. Tuberculous peritonitis was defined as the isolation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis from ascites or dialysate, and/or caseating granuloma/acid-fast bacilli from peritoneal biopsy specimens from patients with pulmonary tuberculosis or a response to treatment for tuberculosis. Among the patients studied, nine with cirrhosis of the liver; seven with diabetes mellitus and six with end-stage renal disease, of whom four had undergone continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis. The most frequent signs of tuberculous peritonitis included ascites, fever and anemia. Ascites was found in 31 patients (89%). Abnormal findings on chest radiographs were found in 26 patients (74%), of whom 22 patients (63%) had pleural effusion and five had miliary lung lesions. Seven out of 35 patients were found to have positive culture of sputum or pleural effusion for M. tuberculosis. Two patients were found to have concomitant tuberculous peritonitis and enteritis. Multiple organ involvement was found in eight patients. Eleven patients (31%) died: eight were older than 60 years; six had cirrhosis of the liver and nine were diagnosed post-mortemly. In Taiwan, tuberculous peritonitis should be considered in patients with abnormality of chest radiography and nonresolving peritonitis.