[Dry eye syndrome in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma].

AIM: to determine the frequency and severity of dry eye syndrome (DES) in primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) patients that are newly diagnosed or already receiving beta blocker instillation therapy. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 127 patients (190 eyes) with POAG were divided into two groups. Group 1 included 55 newly diagnosed patients (88 eyes), group 2-72 POAG patients (102 eyes) instilling timolol 0.5% twice daily into the affected eye. The control group included 20 patients (40 eyes) aged 60-88 years (73.6 ± 9.2 years on average) with early age-related cataract. RESULTS: DES was found in 69 POAG patients (79%) who was just starting their topical hypotensive therapy and 85 of those (84%) under treatment (p = 0.39). CONCLUSIONS: One should take into account when prescribing ocular hypotensive therapy that newly diagnosed POAG patients usually already suffer from a dry eye. The use of topical beta blockers that contain preservatives exacerbates dry eye signs and symptoms in these patients.

[Comparative cytogenetic study of the tetraploid Matricaria chamomilla L. and Matricaria inodora L].

A comparative cytogenetic study of the autotetraploid breed of Matricaria chamomilla L. (M. recutita L.) and Matricaria inodora L. was carried out by DAPI-banding, fluorescent hybridization in situ (FISH) with 26S and 5S rDNA probes, and analysis of meiosis. All chromosomes were identified in both karyotypeson the basis of DAPI-banding images and 26S and 5S rDNA distribution, and species-specific idiograms were composed for both M. chamomilla and M. indora taking into account the polymorphous variants of DAPI-banding images, showing the location of the 26S and 5S rDNA sites.

[Polymorphism of KPI-A genes from plants of the subgenus Potatoe (sect. Petota, Estolonifera and Lycopersicum) and subgenus Solanum].

Kunitz-type proteinase inhibitor proteins of group A (KPI-A) are involved in the protection of potato plants from pathogens and pests. Although sequences of large number of the KPI-A genes from different species of cultivated potato (Solanum tuberosum subsp. tuberosum) and a few genes from tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) are known to date, information about the allelic diversity of these genes in other species of the genus Solanum is lacking. In our work, the consensus sequences of the KPI-A genes were established in two species of subgenus Potatoe sect. Petota (Solanum tuberosum subsp. andigenum--5 genes and Solanum stoloniferum--2 genes) and in the subgenus Solanum (Solanum nigrum--5 genes) by amplification, cloning, sequencing and subsequent analysis. The determined sequences of KPI-A genes were 97-100% identical to known sequences of the cultivated potato of sect. Petota (cultivated potato Solanum tuberosum subsp. tuberosum) and sect. Etuberosum (S. palustre). The interspecific variability of these genes did not exceed the intraspecific variability for all studied species except Solanum lycopersicum. The distribution of highly variable and conserved sequences in the mature protein-encoding regions was uniform for all investigated KPI-A genes. However, our attempts to amplify the homologous genes using the same primers and the genomes of Solanum dulcamarum, Solanum lycopersicum and Mandragora officinarum resulted in no product formation. Phylogenetic analysis of KPI-A diversity showed that the sequences of the S. lycopersicum form independent cluster, whereas KPI-A of S. nigrum and species of sect. Etuberosum and sect. Petota are closely related and do not form species-specific subclasters. Although Solanum nigrum is resistant to all known races of economically one of the most important diseases of solanaceous plants oomycete Phytophthora infestans aminoacid sequences encoding by KPI-A genes from its genome have nearly or absolutely no differences to the same from genomes of cultivated potatoes involved by P. infestans.

[Differential expression of genes that encode glycolysis enzymes in kidney and lung cancer in humans].

Glycolysis is a main catabolic pathway of glucose metabolism, accompanied by ATP synthesis. More than 30 enzymes are involved in glycolysis, and genes that encode them can be considered housekeeping genes due to the high conservatism and evolutionary antiquity of the process. We studied the expression of these genes in kidney papillary cancer and planocellular lung cancer via the bioinformatic analysis of transcriptome database and method of quantitative real time PCR. Quantitative analysis of mRNA level demonstrated that only a part ofgenes that encode glycolysis enzymes maintain relatively stable mRNA level, including the HK1, ADPGK, GPI, PGK1, and PKM2 genes in kidney papillary cancer and the ADPGK, ALDOA, GAPDH, PGK1, BPGM, ENO1, and PKM2 genes in planocellular lung cancer. The frequent increase in the mRNA expression of PFKP, ALDOA, and GAPDH genes in kidney cancer, as well as the GPI gene in lung cancer, were detected for the first time by real time PCR. For other genes, their differential expression was demonstrated; the cases of both a decrease and increase in the mRNA level were detected. Thus, several genes that can be used as control genes in transcriptome analysis by real time PCR in kidney and lung cancer, as well as a number of differentially expressed genes that can be potential oncomarkers, were identified.

[Genetic diversity and evolution of the influenza C virus].

The influenza C virus is spread worldwide and causes diseases of the upper and (less frequently) lower respiratory tract in human. The virus is not pandemic, but it circulates together with pandemic influenza A and B viruses during winter months and has quite similar clinical manifestations. The influenza C virus is also encountered in animals (pigs and dogs) and is known to override the interspecific barriers oftransmssion. The immune system of mammals often fails to recognize new antigenic variants of influenza C virus, which invariably arise in nature, resulting in outbreaks of diseases, although the structure of antigens in influenza C virus in general is much more stable than those of influenza viruses A and B. Variability of genetic information in natural isolates of viruses is determined by mutations, reassortment, and recombination. However, recombination events very rarely occur in genomes of negative-strand RNA viruses, including those of influenza, and virtually have no effect on their evolution. Unambiguous explanations for this phenomenon have thus far not been proposed. There is no proof of recombination processes in the influenza C virus genome. On the contrary, reassortant viruses derived from different strains of influenza C virus frequently appear in vitro and are likely to be common in nature. The genome of influenza C virus comprises seven segments. Based on the comparison of sequences in one of its genes (HEF), six genetic or antigenic lineages of this virus can be distinguished (Yamagata/26/81, Aichi/1/81, Mississippi/80, Taylor/1233/47, Sao Paulo/378/82, and Kanagawa/1/76). However, the available genetic data show that all the seven segments of the influenza C virus genome evolve independently.

[Increase in NETO2 gene expression is a potential molecular genetic marker in renal and lung cancers].

Multiple changes in the genome, transcriptome, and proteome are frequent in cancer cells. A search for molecular markers based on DNA, mRNA, or proteins is a main method to develop early specific diagnostics for cancer. While universal markers are still unavailable, similar trends are known for the expression patterns of particular genes in certain epithelial tumors. A bioinformatic screening of transcriptomic databases identified the NETO2 gene as a new potential promising marker of renal cancer. A substantial increase in NETO2 mRNA level was detected in 90% clear-cell renal cell carcinomas, 70% of non-small cell lung cancers, and 50% of papillary renal cancers by real-time PCR. The NETO2 mRNA level was increased to a lesser extent in cervical carcinoma and colon cancer and tended to decrease in cancer of the stomach. The NETO2 gene, which codes for a membrane glycoprotein with an unclear function, was assumed to provide a new promising marker for early diagnosis in renal cancer and non-small cell lung cancer.

[Genetic monitoring of populations of Matthiola fragrans (Bunge) using RAPD and AFLP analysis].

The possibility of using RAPD and AFLP methods for genetic monitoring of populations of Matthiola fragrans (Bunge), a species included in the Red Book of the USSR, was shown for the first time. An analysis of inter- and intrapopulation and interspecies genome polymorphism was performed. Differences in the genetic structure of Matthiola populations from various geographical collection points were revealed. A simple method of performing RAPD analysis and the great number of unique markers found in each population compared with the AFLP analysis, as well as the good division of populations under statistical treatment, allow us to draw the conclusion that using the RAPD method in genetic monitoring of rare and insufficiently studied species is well founded.

[Hypolipidemic therapy in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease].

To date generally accepted that one of the major risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and atherosclerosis is dyslipidemia. The undoubted fact is that the liver plays an important role in the development of atherogenic dyslipidemia, and simultaneously being the target organs, which leads to the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). NAFLD is a major risk factor for CVD, it limits the possibilities for adequate lipid-lowering therapy, increasing cardiovascular risk. In this regard, the treatment of atherogenic dyslipidemia with statins and fibrates appropriate to hepatoprotectors disposal. Hepatoprotectors choice depends on the stage of NAFLD. At the steatosis stage of the NAFLD expedient method of statins in combination with essential phospholipids. At the nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) stage of NAFLD patient should receive statin therapy combined with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA). Patients with high levels of hypercholesterolemia in achieving target levels of cholesterol--low lipoprotein density (LDL-cholesterol) and decrease the side effects is the best combination of statins with the cholesterol absorption inhibitor. The complex lipid-lowering therapy in patients with NAFLD should include drugs that normalize the intestinal microflora (intestinal antiseptic, pre- and probiotics).

[Global diversity of durum wheat Triticum durum desf. for alleles of gliadin-coding loci].

Genetic diversity for the alleles of gliadin-coding loci was studied with 465 durum wheat cultivars from 42 countries. A total of 108 alleles were identified for four loci; 60 alleles were described for the first time. Broad diversity of rare gliadin-coding alleles was observed. The highest genetic diversity was characteristic of durum wheat cultivars from the Middle East, Trans-Caucasia, the Pyrenean Peninsula, and the Balkans. Two genetically isolated ancient branches were isolated. A southern branch included mostly cultivars from the Mediterranean region, the Middle East, and Trans-Caucasia. A northern branch included Russian and Ukrainian durum wheat cultivars and varieties obtained on their basis. An additional group included durum wheat cultivars that had been obtained in several past decades on the basis of the material of international breeding centers (CIMMYT and ICARDA) and had low genetic diversity.

[Neoadjuvant therapy of breast cancer using Newcastle disease virus].

The role of Newcastle disease virus and neoadjuvant therapy was assessed in 84 cases of breast cancer T1-4N0-2M0 (2005-2008). Combined use of the virus vaccine and chemotherapy (group A), therapy with the vaccine alone (group B) and chemotherapy regimen identical with that used in group A (group C) were compared. Histological pattern of tumor and stage were identified using expression of receptors of steroid hormones, oncoproteins Her2/neu and p53 as well as proliferation activity (marker Ki-67) before and after therapy. It was shown that the efficiency and safety of Newcastle disease virus (apathogenic strain La-Sotha) met specific immuno- and neoadjuvant therapy standards.

[Allelic diversity at gliadin-coding gene loci in cultivars of spring durum wheat (Triticum durum Desf.) bred in Russia and former Soviet Republics in the 20th century].

Allelic diversity at five gliadin-coding gene loci has been studied in the most important spring durum wheat cultivars released in Russia and former Soviet republics in the 20th century (66 cultivars). Seven, 5, 8, 13, and 2 allelic variants of blocks of gliadin components controlled by the loci Gli-A1d, Gli-B1d, Gli-A2d, Gli-B2d, and Gli-B5d, respectively, have been identified. The allelic diversity did not exhibit a consistent trend during the period studied. Nei's diversity index (H) was 0.68 in the period from 1929 to 1950, increased to 0.70 in 1951-1980, and decreased to 0.58 after the year 1981. It has been found that the most frequent alleles in this collection are relatively rare in other regions of the world, which suggests unique ways of the formation of the diversity of durum wheat cultivars in the former Soviet Union. The efficiency of electrophoresis of storage proteins as a method for identification of durum wheat cultivars by the gliadin electrophoretic pattern has been estimated.

[Molecular genetic marker-based approaches to the verification of lilac Syringa vulgaris L. in in vitro collections].

RAPD analysis was used to verify the varieties in an in vitro germplasm collection of lilac Syringa vulgaris L. RAPD patterns were obtained with 16 decanucleotide primers for 46 accessions (microclones and corresponding reference varieties). The RAPD patterns of a microclone and the corresponding reference variety often differed in composition; consequently, it was infeasible to verify the accessions by direct comparison of the RAPD patterns. Hence, evaluation of the relative genetic distances between accessions (microclones) and known varieties was proposed as a method to verify lilac in vitro germplasm collections.

[Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in dyslipidemia and insulin resistance: similarities and differences; differential approach to therapy].

AIM: to study the clinical, functional and morphological features of the liver damage in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in combination with the atherogenic dyslipidemia and/or insulin resistance, and treatment of these changes according to violations. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 240 patients with clinical signs of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, who were gathering medical history, blood chemistry, lipid spectrum estimation blood, an oral glucose tolerance test, determination of Noma-test, transabdominal ultrasonography of abdominal organs, morphological study of liver with followed morphometric evaluation of the material. RESULTS: The patients with non-alcoholic fat liver disease transaminase levels were ranged from 1.5 to 5. Degree of morphological ethical changes depends on the non-alcoholic fat liver disease etiology, in patients with impaired carbohydrate metabolism was increased dyslipidemia. At patients with IR there were identified morphological changes such as presence of "vacyolelike" nuclei and anisocarosis. In patients with atherogenic dyslipidemia most characteristic histological change is the polymorphism of the nuclei. CONCLUSION: The clinical picture of non-alcoholic fat liver disease is unspecific, without reliable clinical distinction between groups of patients with dyslipidemia, impaired glucose tolerance and patients with diabetes mellitus 2-nd type. Biochemical and morphological changes in the liver are most pronounced in patients with diabetes mellitus 2-nd type. Treatment of the non-alcoholic fat liver disease should be taking into account of the disease etiology (the presence of dyslipidemia or insulin resistance).

[The complex assessment of efficiency of therapeutic training in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and destructive pulmonary tuberculosis].

115 patients from 39 to 70 years old with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) and destructive pulmonary tuberculosis (PT) were included in the study. All patients received standard regimens of antituberculous therapy. At admission all patients were in state of decompensation of carbohydrate metabolism. Criteria of DM optimal metabolic control were determined individually subject to state of cognitive functions and life expectancy. Combined clinico-laboratory and roentgenologic examinations and special questioning were performed. The patients were divided into groups matched for social-demographic, clinical parameters and methods of metabolic disturbances correction. The main group patients took complex training of DM patients program adapted for PT patients. The modification of training was based on psychosocial and clinical features of these patients category. Primary course last 8 hours with following dynamic observation and correction in 1 and 3 months. The patients of comparison group did not take purposeful training. They received required information from medical specialists during examinations. The study demonstrated higher efficiency of combined treatment in patients of main group. Use of therapeutic training of DM and PT patients is reasonable as an integrated component in the system of combined medical aid to these patients category.

[Cholesterosis of the gall bladder and atherogenic dyslipidemia: etiology, pathogenesis, clinical symptoms, diagnosis and treatment].

AIM: To detect specific morphological signs of hepatic lesion in patients with cholesterosis of the gall bladder and atherogenic dyslipidemia in the presence of steatohepatitis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Atherogenic dyslipidemia was detected in 150 patients with steatohepatitis. Ultrasound investigation diagnosed cholesterosis of the gall bladder in 51.3% patients. The protocol included the following examinations: analysis of the disease history, physical examination, laboratory, device and morphological tests. Thirty patients received therapy with ursodesoxycholic acid medicine for 3 months. RESULTS: Basic clinical symptoms of gall bladder cholesterosis (GBC) and its risk factors are defined. The biochemical blood test registered elevated levels of transaminase, alkaline phosphatase and bilirubin. All the patients had an atherogenic type of dyslipidemia. According to USI, a focal-reticular form of GBC prevailed. Histologic examination of the liver detected the following alterations: fat infiltration, portal and intralobular infiltration, hydropic dystrophy, binuclear hepatocytes, lobular hepatitis, fibrosis of the portal tracts, periductular fibrosis, ductual proliferation, ductual epithelium detachment. Histologically, the walls of the gall bladder contain foam cells in the mucous and submucous layer. The same changes were seen in the wall of the hepatic artery as well as cholesterol polyps, epithelial destruction. Ursosan treatment resulted in a significant lowering of total cholesterol. CONCLUSION: GBC seems to be a chain of successive conditions: lipid disbolism at the level of hepatocyte, development of steatosis, steatohepatitis, fibrosis, involvement of all anatomo-morphological structures of the liver including the biliary tract, GBC.

[Use of flow cytometry in diagnosis of urinary bladder cancer].

Urinary bladder cancer ranks 11th (10-15 cases per 100,000 annually) in the oncological morbidity registry. Morphological diagnosis is generally confirmed by cytological assay of urinary sediment or lavage liquid. Yet, the method is effective only with low-differentiated cell tumor. Flow cytometry was used at the Center's Clinic (2005-2006) to test urinary sediment from 32 patients diagnosed with bladder cancer. In addition, all patients were tested 3 times by the standard cytological procedure using a mix of azure and eosin (Pappenheim). The sensitivity of the latter method proved to be 31.3% as compared with 65.62% for flow cytometry.