Expression of apoptosis-related genes in chronic cyclosporine nephrotoxicity in mice.

To define the mechanism of cyclosporine (CsA)-induced apoptosis, we investigated the expression of apoptosis-related genes in experimental chronic CsA nephrotoxicity. Mice on a low-salt (0.01%) diet were given vehicle (VH, olive oil, 1 mg/kg/day), or CsA (30 mg/kg/day), and sacrificed at 1 and 4 weeks.

Immunohistologic evidence for retinal glial cell changes in human glaucoma.

Purpose: Glial cells are structurally and functionally linked to neuronal tissues. Pathologically, the cells may be activated and characterized by increased size and number and altered cellular properties. In glaucoma, pathologic mechanisms within the anterior optic nerve may include glial activation.

Effects of tranilast on filtering blebs: a pilot study.

Purpose: To investigate the effects of topical instillation of 0.5% tranilast eye drops on intraocular pressure (IOP) and bleb formation after glaucoma filtering surgery.

Patients And Methods: This was a prospective, randomized, double-masked, and controlled clinical trial.

Quantitative analysis of urine sediment using newly designed centrifuge tubes.

We quantified the formed elements of urine sediment using newly designed plastic centrifuge tubes with top and bottom openings and a 0.5 ml sized bottom ball (YZ tube). This design minimizes the adherence of formed elements that occurs on the glass surface of conventional tubes.