Differential expression of galectin-1 and galectin-3 during first trimester human embryogenesis.

Development of complex organisms requires specific temporospatial differentiation and expression of the correct phenotype through activation of a variety of genes. Galectins are mammalian lectins able to interact with various extracellular matrix glycoconjugates and have been implicated in several biological events including cell attachment, differentiation, apoptosis, embryogenesis, and cancer invasion and metastasis. In this study, we have examined the expression of galectin-1 and galectin-3 during human first trimester embryogenesis using immunohistochemistry and Western blotting.

Comparison of two estradiol transdermal systems (Oesclim 50 and Estraderm TTS 50). II. Local skin tolerability.

Objectives: The objectives were to compare the local skin tolerability of a matrix-type estradiol transdermal system, Oesclim 50, with that of the reservoir-type system, Estraderm TTS 50.

Methods: Two randomised studies were performed. In the first study, the modified Draize-Shelanski-Jordan method of sensitization was used in an open, parallel-group trial to compare the cutaneous tolerability of repeated applications of Oesclim 50 with that of Estraderm TTS 50 in 24 healthy postmenopausal women.

Comparison of two estradiol transdermal systems (Oesclim 50 and Estraderm TTS 50). I. Tolerability, adhesion and efficacy.

Objectives: The objectives were to compare the tolerability, adhesion and efficacy of a new matrix-type estradiol transdermal system, Oesclim 50, with those of Estraderm TTS 50, a reservoir-type system.

Methods: This was an open, randomised, parallel-group, multi-centre clinical trial, performed in six European countries. A total of 143 healthy menopausal women were allocated to treatment with Oesclim 50 and 140 to Estraderm TTS 50.

[Epithelial cancers of the ovary. Recent trends].

Ovarian carcinomas constitute the major cause of the mortality and morbidity in gynaecology. Most ovary carcinomas are epithelial tumours. Our understanding of ovarian cancerogenesis has been hampered by the lack of a well defined precursor lesion, the lack of knowledge about tumour progression, and by the relative inaccessibility of the ovaries in the abdominal cavity.

Inverse expression of two laminin binding proteins, 67LR and galectin-3, correlates with the invasive phenotype of trophoblastic tissue.

Tumor invasion of host tissues and trophoblastic penetration of the endometrium share common biological features. Both processes involve the invasion of basement membranes, an event that is initiated by adhesion of cancer or trophoblast cells to basement membrane components and particularly to laminin. Adhesion to this latter glycoprotein is mediated through a variety of cell surface receptors.

Study of the artefacts induced by linear array transvaginal ultrasound scanning in urodynamics.

In patients with incontinence problems, endovaginal urodynamic ultrasonography is a technique which easily complements manometric examination by permitting a precise study of peri-urethral soft tissue. Use of a linear array probe under standardised conditions gives, at present, the best results. To validate the technique, it is, however, important to understand the artefacts it provokes.

[Utero-trophoblastic interface: transitory stage in human placentation].

In the past, the intervillous space of the human placenta has been studied on samples provided by spontaneous abortions. Using the endocavitary ultrasonography and the chorionoscopy in normal pregnancies, the intervillous space during the first trimester has been observed as filled by a plasmatic fraction cell free of the maternal blood. During the first trimester, the human placenta doesn't have its theoretical functional specificities.

[Tamoxifen in the treatment of breast cancer].

Tamoxifen is the most often prescribed non steroidal antioestrogenic agent in the world for breast cancer. Worldwide collaboration. has centralized the results, of different trials throughout the world on oral adjuvant therapy in the early stages of breast cancer.

[Lower urinary tract infections in women. Recent data].

Lower urinary tract infection (LUTI) is a common disease of young women. It usually has a favourable prognosis, but it must not be neglected in view of its frequent recurrences and of the important morbidity it creates leading to social and sexual discomfort. LUTI, therefore, must be diagnosed, and this is done essentially by bacteriological examination of midstream urine.

High rate of multiple genital HPV infections detected by DNA hybridization.

Cervical smears collected from 450 patients involved in a clinical follow-up of cervical human papillomaviruses (HPV) infections were screened for the presence of HPV 6b, 11, 16, and 18 DNA by both dot blot and southern blot hybridization methods. Using very high stringency hybridization assays, the four HPV types could be easily distinguished by dot blotting. After a preliminary clinical sorting, 42.

[Contribution of magnesium gluconate in intravenous tocolysis with ritodrine].

The purpose of this randomized study was to compare the efficacy of ritodrine alone (51) versus ritodrine plus magnesium gluconate (56). We concluded that high oral doses of magnesium therapy (4 x 3 gr) potentiate the effects of intravenous beta-agonists, allowing a reduction of the dosage needed and a better "tolerance". Considering the low side effects, it seems reasonable to consider using magnesium in the treatment of premature labour.