Circulating matrix metalloproteinases and their tissue inhibitors as markers for ethnic variation in pelvic floor tissue integrity.

The purpose of the present study was to measure the plasma levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)-2 and -9 and their tissue inhibitors (TIMP)-1 and -2, as surrogate biomarkers for pelvic floor tissue integrity in young, healthy multi-ethnic women. This was hoped to elucidate ethnic vulnerability to support-related pelvic floor dysfunctions. The plasma levels of MMP-2 and -9 and TIMP-1 and -2 were measured by sandwich ELISA in nulliparous, young (18-29 years) women volunteers (n=85) from five ethnic groups [n=17/group; Bahrainis, other Arabs, Filipinos, Indians/Pakistanis and Caucasians (Italians)] and compared with levels in Italians as the reference group.

Association of vitamin D deficiency and hyperparathyroidism with anemia: a cross-sectional study.

Vitamin D deficiency and anemia are common in the Middle East, and vitamin D deficiency and hyperparathyroidism have been reported to be associated with an increased prevalence of anemia. In this study, the hypothesis that vitamin D deficiency and hyperparathyroidism may be associated with anemia in a Bahraini population was tested. Association of hyperparathyroidism and vitamin D levels (deficiency and insufficiency) with anemia was investigated in 421 Bahrainis (213 males and 208 females).