Phospholipids are ubiquitous in nature and are essential for the lipid bilayer of cell membranes. Their structural and functional properties are pivotal for the survival of the cell. In this study the phospholipids of healthy and cancerous human renal tissues from the same patients are compared with special reference to the electric charge of the membrane. A simple and highly effective normal-phase method is described for analyzing phospholipids content. This work is focused on changes of phospholipids content (PtdIns, phosphatidylinositol; PtdSer, phosphatidylserine; PtdEtn, phosphatidylethanoloamine; PtdCho, phosphatidylcholine) in cell membranes of renal cancer of pT1 stage, G2 grade, without metastasis. Surface charge density of healthy and cancerous human renal tissues was measured by electrophoresis. The measurements were carried out at various pH of solution. Depending on the surface charge density as a function of pH, acidic (CTA) and basic (CTB) functional group concentrations and their average association constants with hydrogen (KAH) or hydroxyl (KBOH) ions were evaluated. The process of cancer transformation was accompanied by an increase in total amount of phospholipids as well as an increase in CTA and KBOH, whereas KAH and CTB were decreased compared with unchanged tumor cells.

Buccal mucosa is the most reliable graft for repairing anterior urethral strictures in patients with LS. Minimal complications are observed, even in cases of long stenosis completely afflicting anterior urethra.

Introduction Radiofrequency (RF)-based treatment has been introduced as an esthetic alternative treatment for various medical indications without the scientific backup of a satisfactory body of evidence. Furthermore, the United States Food and Drug Administration issued a warning regarding the safety of energy-based technologies for indications such as vaginal “rejuvenation," cosmetic vaginal treatment, vaginal conditions related to menopause, and symptoms of urinary incontinence and sexual function on July 30, 2018. Aim To perform a thorough review of the existing literature regarding RF-based vaginal devices for the treatment of female genitourinary indications and summarize the evidence available in a few short statements. Methods A thorough review of the literature regarding RF treatments for gynecological indications was performed based on several databases. Studies that included at least 15 patients were eligible for analysis. Main Outcome Measure Efficacy of RF devices for different genitourinary indications. Results Although a high level of heterogeneity of studies poses a serious challenge, the committee reached a decision on several statements related to the use of RF-based devices for genitourinary indications. Clinical Implications RF-based vaginal treatments have not been studied thoroughly enough in order to establish decisive recommendations regarding their safety and efficacy. Strength & Limitations These position statements have been established by a group of experts. The lack of strong evidence makes it difficult to give decisive recommendations. Conclusions Further randomized controlled trials with proper methodology and design are required to establish both benefits and possible harm these treatments may have in both short and long term for all the different indications studied.

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Background Laser-based technologies have been commercially marketed as “wonder treatments” without a sufficient and adequate body of evidence. In addition, on July 30, 2018, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a warning regarding the safety of the use of laser-based devices for the following indications: vaginal “rejuvenation” or cosmetic vaginal procedures, vaginal conditions and symptoms related to menopause, urinary incontinence, and sexual function. Aim To perform a thorough review of the available literature regarding laser-based vaginal devices for the treatment of female genitourinary indications and summarize the results in several short statements according to the level of evidence. Methods A comprehensive review of the literature regarding laser treatments for gynecological indications was performed based on several databases. Eligible were studies that included at least 15 patients. Outcomes Several aspects, including preclinical data, have been investigated. For each topic covered, data on laser-based devices were analyzed. Results Despite the high heterogeneity of studies and its limitations, the committee released several statements regarding the use of laser-based devices for genitourinary indications. Clinical Implications Available data in the clinical setting are still poor, and the impact of these technologies on vaginal symptoms and signs has not been clearly established. Strengths & Limitations All studies have been evaluated by a panel of experts providing recommendations for clinical practice. Conclusion It is too early in the evolution and research of laser-based devices to make decisive recommendations regarding vaginal treatments. There is grave need to carry out randomized controlled trials with proper design for safety reasons, possible harm, and short-/long-term benefits for the different indications studied.