Experimental Model Exposed to Bisphenol and Submitted to a High-Fat Diet and Related Morphologic Testicular Parameters Alterations Analysis

ABSTRACT Purpose To evaluate the morphological and stereological parameters of the testicles in mice exposed to bisphenol S and/or high-fat diet-induced obesity. Material and Methods Forty adult male C57BL/6 mice were fed a standard diet (SC) or high-fat diet (HF) for a total of 12 weeks. The sample was randomly divided into 4 experimental groups with 10 mices as follows: a) SC - animals fed a standard diet; b) SC-B - animals fed a standard diet and administration of BPS (25 μg/kg of body mass/day) in drinking water; c) HF: animals fed a high-fat diet; d) HF-B - animals fed a high-fat diet and administration of BPS (25 μg/Kg of body mass/day) in drinking water. BPS administration lasted 12 weeks, following exposure to the SC and HF diets. BPS was diluted in absolute ethanol (0.1%) and added to drinking water (concentration of 25 μg/kg body weight/day). The animals were euthanized, and the testes were processed and stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) for morphometric and stereological parameters, including density of seminiferous tubules per area, length density and total length of seminiferous tubules, height of the tunica albuginea and the diameter of the seminiferous tubules. The images were captured with an Olympus BX51 microscope and Olympus DP70 camera. The stereological analysis was done with the Image Pro and Image J programs. Means were statistically compared using ANOVA and the Holm-Sidak post-test (p<0.05). Results The seminiferous tubule density per area reduced in all groups when compared with SC samples (p<0.001): HF (40%), SC-B 3(2%), and HF-B (36%). Length density was reduced significantly (p<0.001) in all groups when compared with SC group: HF (40%), SC-B (32%), and HF-B (36%). The seminiferous tubule total length was reduced (p<0.001) when compared to f HF (28%) and SC-B (26%) groups. The tubule diameter increased significantly (p<0.001) only when we compared the SC group with SC (54%) an SC-B (25%) groups and the tunica thickness increased significantly only in HF group (117%) when compared with SC-B (20%) and HF-B 31%. Conclusion Animals exposed to bisphenol S and/or high-fat diet-induced obesity presented important structural alterations in testicular morphology.

Primary Retroperitoneal Lymph Node Dissection for Clinical Stage II A/B Seminomas: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

ABSTRACT Introduction Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are considered standard treatments for stage II seminoma patients; however, these therapies are associated with long-term toxicities. Recently, retroperitoneal lymph node dissection has emerged as an alternative strategy, and the first three phase II trials were published in 2023 with promising results. The present study conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate this surgery as an alternative treatment for stage IIA/B seminoma patients. Purpose Seminomas are the most common testicular tumors, often affecting young adult males. Standard treatments for stage II seminomas include chemotherapy and radiation therapy, but these therapies are associated with long-term toxicities. Thus, identifying alternative strategies is paramount. Herein, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to appraise the efficacy and safety of retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND) for treating this condition. Methods We systematically searched the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases for studies evaluating RPLND as a primary treatment for stage II A/B seminomas. Using a random-effects model, single proportion and means and pooled 2-year recurrence-free survival rates with hazard rates and 95% CI were calculated. Results Seven studies were included, comprising 331 males with stage II seminomas. In the pooled analysis, the recurrence rate was 17.69% (95% CI 12.31-24.75), and the 2-year RFS rate was 81% (95% CI 0.77-0.86). The complication rate was 9.16% (95% CI 6.16-13.42), the Clavien-Dindo > 2 complication rate was 8.83% (95% CI 5.76-13.31), and the retrograde ejaculation rate was 7.01% (95% CI 3.54-13.40). The median operative time was 174.68 min (95% CI 122.17-249.76 min), median blood loss was 105.91 mL (95% CI 46.89-239.22 mL), and patients with no evidence of lymph node involvement ranged from 0-16%. Conclusions Primary RPLNDs for treating stage IIA/B seminomas have favorable RFS rates, with low complication and recurrence rates. These findings provide evidence that this surgery is a viable alternative therapy for these patients.

Use of ChatGPT in Urology and its Relevance in Clinical Practice: Is it useful?

ABSTRACT Purpouse: One of the many artificial intelligence based tools that has gained popularity is the Chat-Generative Pre-Trained Transformer (ChatGPT). Due to its popularity, incorrect information provided by ChatGPT will have an impact on patient misinformation. Furthermore, it may cause misconduct as ChatGPT can mislead physicians on the decision-making pathway. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the accuracy and reproducibility of ChatGPT answers regarding urological diagnoses. Materials and Methods: ChatGPT 3.5 version was used. The questions asked for the program involved Primary Megaureter (pMU), Enuresis and Vesicoureteral Reflux (VUR). There were three queries for each topic. The queries were inserted twice, and both responses were recorded to examine the reproducibility of ChatGPT's answers. Afterwards, both answers were combined. Finally, those rwere evaluated qualitatively by a board of three specialists. A descriptive analysis was performed. Results and Conclusion: ChatGPT simulated general knowledge on the researched topics. Regarding Enuresis, the provided definition was partially correct, as the generic response allowed for misinterpretation. For VUR, the response was considered appropriate. For pMU it was partially correct, lacking essential aspects of its definition such as the diameter of the dilatation of the ureter. Unnecessary exams were suggested, for Enuresis and pMU. Regarding the treatment of the conditions mentioned, it specified treatments for Enuresis that are ineffective, such as bladder training. Therefore, ChatGPT responses present a combination of accurate information, but also incomplete, ambiguous and, occasionally, misleading details.

Kidney collecting system anatomy applied to endourology - a narrative review

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the surgical anatomy of the kidney collecting system through a narrative review of the literature, highlighting its importance during diagnosis and its approach during surgical procedures for the treatment of renal stones. Material and Methods: We carried out a review about the anatomy of the kidney collecting system. We analyzed papers published in the past 40 years in the databases Pubmed, Embase and Scielo, and we included only papers in English and excluded case reports, editorials and opinions of specialists. Results: Renal collecting system could be divided in four groups: A1 - kidney midzone (KM), drained by minor calyx that are dependent on the superior or the inferior caliceal groups; A2 - KM drained by crossed calyx, one draining into the superior caliceal group and another draining into the inferior caliceal group; B1 - KM drained by a major caliceal group independent of both the superior and inferior groups; and B2 - KM drained by minor calyx entering directly into the renal pelvis. Some details and anatomic variations of the collecting system are related to clinical and radiological aspects, particularly perpendicular calyces, interpyelocalyx space, position of calyces in relation to renal border, classification of the renal collecting system, infundibular diameter and the angle between the lower infundibulum and renal pelvis. Conclusion: The knowledge of intra-renal collecting system divisions and variations as the angle between the renal pelvis and lower infundibula, position of the calices in relationship with renal edge and the diameter and position of the calyces are important for the planning of minimally invasive renal surgeries.

Linfangioma Quístico del Páncreas. Un Tumor poco Frecuente / Pancreas Cystic Lymphangioma. A Rare Tumor

El linfangioma quístico del páncreas (LQP), es un tumor extremadamente raro y representa solo el 1% de los linfangiomas abdominales. El objetivo de este manuscrito fue reportar un caso de LQP intervenido quirúrgicamente; y revisar la evidencia existente respecto de sus características morfológicas, terapéuticas y pronósticas. Mujer de 67 años, con LQP operada en Clínica RedSalud Mayor Temuco en septiembre de 2023. Se verificó un tumor sólido-quístico de 16 cm de diámetro mayor, adherido al páncreas a nivel del cuerpo de la glándula, de 867 gramos de peso, con líquido amarillento en su interior; la que fue extirpada completamente. Después del estudio histológico, se realizaron tinciones inmunohistoquímicas complementarias para CD31, D2-40 y calretina. La paciente tuvo un curso postoperatorio sin incidentes, siendo dado de alta al tercer día postoperatorio. En el control alejado, se encontraba en buenas condiciones generales. El LQP es un tumor muy poco frecuente. Las características clínicas e imágenes de este tipo de lesiones son inespecíficas. Debe considerarse en el diagnóstico diferencial de las lesiones quísticas pancreáticas. La resección quirúrgica completa con márgenes libres es el tratamiento de elección; y el pronóstico del LQP es favorable si se reseca por completo.

SUMMARY: Pancreas cystic lymphangioma (PCL) are extremely rare, accounting for only 1% of abdominal lymphangiomas. The aim of this study was to report a rare case of PCL, who underwent surgery; and review the existing evidence regarding its morphological, therapeutic and prognostic characteristics. 67-year-woman patient with PCL who underwent surgery at Clínica RedSalud Mayor Temuco in September 2023. In this case, a solid-cystic tumor with a major diameter of 16 cm was identified, adhering to the pancreas at the level of the body of the gland, weighing 867 grams and containing yellowish fluid in its interior. The tumor was completely excised. Subsequent to histological examination, additional immunohistochemical staining was performed for CD31, D2-40, and calretinin. The patient experienced an uneventful postoperative course and was discharged on the third postoperative day. During the follow-up, the patient remains in good general condition. LQP is a very rare tumor. Clinical features and images of this type of lesions are nonspecific. It should be considered in the differential diagnosis of pancreatic cystic lesions. Complete surgical resection with free margins is the treatment of choice; and the prognosis of LQP is favorable if it is completely resected.

A nomogram model for the occurrence of bladder spasm after TURP in patients with prostate enlargement based on serum prostacyclin and 5-hydroxytryptamine and clinical characteristics

ABSTRACT Objective: With the development of analytical methods, mathematical models based on humoral biomarkers have become more widely used in the medical field. This study aims to investigate the risk factors associated with the occurrence of bladder spasm after transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) in patients with prostate enlargement, and then construct a nomogram model. Materials and methods: Two hundred and forty-two patients with prostate enlargement who underwent TURP were included. Patients were divided into Spasm group (n=65) and non-spasm group (n=177) according to whether they had bladder spasm after surgery. Serum prostacyclin (PGI2) and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunoassay. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to analyze the risk factors. Results: Postoperative serum PGI2 and 5-HT levels were higher in patients in the Spasm group compared with the Non-spasm group (P<0.05). Preoperative anxiety, drainage tube obstruction, and elevated postoperative levels of PGI2 and 5-HT were independent risk factors for bladder spasm after TURP (P<0.05). The C-index of the model was 0.978 (0.959-0.997), with a χ2 = 4.438 (p = 0.816) for Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test. The ROC curve to assess the discrimination of the nomogram model showed an AUC of 0.978 (0.959-0.997). Conclusion: Preoperative anxiety, drainage tube obstruction, and elevated postoperative serum PGI2 and 5-HT levels are independent risk factors for bladder spasm after TURP. The nomogram model based on the aforementioned independent risk factors had good discrimination and predictive abilities, which may provide a high guidance value for predicting the occurrence of bladder spasm in clinical practice.

Head-to-head comparisons of enhanced CT, 68Ga-PSMA-11 PET/CT and 18F-FDG PET/CT in identifying adverse pathology of clear-cell renal cell carcinoma: a prospective study

ABSTRACT Objectives: Accurate preoperative prediction of adverse pathology is crucial for treatment planning of renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Previous studies have emphasized the potential of prostate-specific membrane antigen positron emission tomography / computed tomography (PSMA PET/CT) in differentiating between benign and malignant localized renal tumors. However, there is a scarcity of case reports elucidating the identification of aggressive pathological features using PET/CT. Our study was designed to prospectively compare the diagnostic value of enhanced CT, 68Ga-PSMA-11 and 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) PET/CT in clear-cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) with necrosis or sarcomatoid or rhabdoid differentiation. Materials and Methods: A prospective case series of patients with a newly diagnosed renal mass who underwent enhanced CT, 68Ga-PSMA-11 and 18F-FDG PET/CT within 30 days prior to nephrectomy was included. Complete preoperative and postoperative clinicopathological data were recorded. Patients who received neoadjuvant targeted therapy, declined enhanced CT or PET/CT scanning, refused surgical treatment or had non-ccRCC pathological indications were excluded. Radiological parameters were compared within subgroups of pathological characteristics. Bonferroni corrections were used to adjust for multiple testing and statistical significance was set at a p-value less than 0.017. Results: Seventy-two patients were available for the final analysis. Enhanced CT demonstrated poor performance in identifying necrosis, sarcomatoid or rhabdoid differentiation and adverse pathology (all P > 0.05). The maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) of 68Ga-PSMA-11 PET/CT was more effective than 18F-FDG PET/CT in identifying tumor necrosis and adverse pathology, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.85 (cutoff value=25.26, p<0.001; Delong test z=2.709, p=0.007) for tumor necrosis and AUC of 0.90 (cutoff value=25.26, p<0.001; Delong test z=3.433, p<0.001) for adverse pathology. However, no significant statistical difference was found between 68Ga-PSMA-11 and 18F-FDG PET/CT in predicting sarcomatoid or rhabdoid feature (AUC of 0.91 vs.0.75, Delong test z=1.998, p=0.046). Subgroup analyses based on age, sex, tumor location, maximal diameter, stage and WHO/ISUP grade demonstrated that 68Ga-PSMA-11 PET/CT SUVmax had a significant predictive value for adverse pathology. Enhanced CT value and SUVmax demonstrated strong reliability [intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) > 0.80], indicating a robust correlation. Conclusions: 68Ga-PSMA-11 PET/CT demonstrates distinct advantages in identifying aggressive pathological features of primary ccRCC when compared to enhanced CT and 18F-FDG PET/CT. Further research and assessment are warranted to fully establish the clinical utility of 68Ga-PSMA-11 PET/CT in ccRCC.

Single Port Robotic Pyeloplasty: early single-center experience

ABSTRACT Purpose: Ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) is a prevalent cause of hydronephrosis, especially in young patients. The treatment paradigm for this condition has shifted from open to minimally invasive pyeloplasty. In the present study we describe our initial single centre experience with single port (SP) robot-assisted pyeloplasty (RAP) via periumbilical incision. Material and methods: With the patient in a 60-degree left flank position, the SP system is docked with the Access port (Intuitive Surgical, Sunnyvale, CA, US) placed in a periumbilical 3 cm incision. Robotic instruments are deployed as follows: camera at 12 o'clock, bipolar grasper at 9 o'clock, scissors at 3 o'clock and Cadiere at 6 o'clock. After isolation and identification of the ureter and the ureteropelvic junction (UPJ), the ureter is transected at this level and then spatulated. Anastomosis is carried out by two hemicontinuous running sutures, over a JJ stent. Results: Between 2021 and 2023, a total of 8 SP RAP have been performed at our institution, with a median (interquartile range, IQR) of 23 years (20.5-36.5). Intraoperative outcomes showed a median (IQR) OT of 210.5 minutes (190-240.5) and a median (IQR) estimated blood loss (EBL) of 50 mL (22.5-50). No postoperative complications were encountered, with a median (IQR) length of stay (LOS) of 31 hours (28.5-34). Conclusion: In the present study we evaluated the feasibility and safety of SP RAP. The observed outcomes and potential benefits, combined with the adaptability of the SP platform, hold promising implications for the application of SP system in pyeloplasty treatment.

Aspectos histológicos, genéticos y moleculares de las lesiones preneoplásicas de la mucosa gástrica / Histological, genetic and molecular aspects of preneoplastic lesions of the gastric mucosa

Siendo el cáncer gástrico la 3ª causa de muerte por cáncer en Chile, y existiendo estrategias de tamizaje consistentes en pesquisa de lesiones preneoplásicas de la mucosa gástrica, es relevante conocer los aspectos genéticos y moleculares que puedan ser aplicados, en la optimización de dichas estrategias a grupos de mayor riesgo. El objetivo de este manuscrito fue revisar la evidencia actual en los aspectos señalados, y de la inmunohistoquímica de 4 marcadores (p53, CDX2, MUC2 y S100A9) en la mucosa gástrica normal y en las lesiones preneoplásicas de la misma.

SUMMARY: Since gastric cancer is the 3rd leading cause of death from cancer in Chile, and there are screening strategies consisting of screening for preneoplastic lesions of the gastric mucosa, it is important to know certain genetic and molecular aspects that can be applied in optimizing these strategies for higher risk groups. The aim of this manuscript was to review the current evidence on the aforementioned aspects, and on the immunohistochemistry of 4 markers (p53, CDX2, MUC2 and S100A9) in normal gastric mucosa and in its preneoplastic lesions.

Effectiveness and safety of tocilizumab for COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Tocilizumab is an anti-human interleukin 6 receptor monoclonal antibody that has been used to treat coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, there is no consensus on its efficacy for the treatment of COVID-19. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of tocilizumab for treating COVID-19. DESIGN AND SETTING: Systematic Review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo (SP), Brazil. METHODS: We searched MEDLINE via PubMed, EMBASE, CENTRAL, and IBECS for RCTs published up to March 2021. Two authors selected studies and assessed the risk of bias and the certainty of the evidence following Cochrane Recommendations. RESULTS: Eight RCTs with 6,139 participants were included. We were not able to find differences between using tocilizumab compared to standard care on mortality in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 (risk ratio (RR) 0.97, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.84 to 1.13; 8 trials; 5,950 participants; low-certainty evidence). However, hospitalized patients under tocilizumab plus standard care treatment seemed to present a significantly lower risk of needing mechanical ventilation (risk ratio = 0.78; 95% CI 0.64−0.94 moderate-certainty of evidence). CONCLUSIONS: To date, the best evidence available shows no difference between using tocilizumab plus standard care compared to standard care alone for reducing mortality in patients with COVID-19. However, as a finding with a practical implication, the use of tocilizumab in association to standard care probably reduces the risk of progressing to mechanical ventilation in those patients. REGISTRATION: osf.io/qe4fs.

Radiocirugía estereotáxica por gamma knife en un paciente con cavernoma cerebral y síndrome de Evans

El cavernoma cerebral es una malformación vascular de diagnóstico infrecuente. Se define como una malformación a nivel de la vasculatura microcerebral que, dependiendo a la ubicación y si existe la posibilidad de ruptura, conlleva a una emergencia que puede terminar en la muerte del paciente. En esta oportunidad se reporta el caso de un paciente con cavernoma cerebral asociado al síndrome de Evans. Se decide manejo quirúrgico de la lesión por aumento de intensidad de cefalea e intolerancia oral. Dada la coexistencia del Síndrome de Evans y la alta tasa de morbimortalidad es que se decide manejo quirúrgico mediante radiocirugía estereotáxica con gamma knife. El uso de dosis de margen bajo para tratamiento con gamma knife para uso en cavernomas cerebrales produce un manejo controlado para sintomatología de convulsiones y mejor expectativa de calidad de vida.

Cerebral cavernoma is an infrequently diagnosed vascular malformation. It is defined as a malformation at the level of the microcerebral vasculature that, depending on the location and if there is a possibility of rupture, leads to an emergency that can end in the death of the patient. On this occasion, we report a case of a patient with cerebral cavernoma associated with Evans syndrome. Surgical management of the lesion was decided due to increased intensity of headache and oral intolerance. Given the coexistence of Evans Syndrome and the high rate of morbidity and mortality, surgical management was decided by stereotaxic radiosurgery with a gamma knife. The use of low-margin doses for treatment with gamma knife for use in brain cavernomas produces controlled management for seizure symptoms and better quality of life expectancy.

Highlights of clinical and laboratory parameters among severe COVID-19 patients treated with tocilizumab: a retrospective observational study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) can cause cytokine release syndrome (CRS), which leads to high mortality rates. Tocilizumab suppresses CRS by blocking the signal transduction of interleukin-6 (IL-6). OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the clinical and laboratory parameters associated with mortality among patients receiving tocilizumab treatment. DESIGN AND SETTING: Retrospective observational study conducted in the chest disease departments of two different training and research hospitals in the center of Ankara, Turkey. METHODS: Patients who were hospitalized and treated with tocilizumab in September 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. Their laboratory parameters and clinical characteristics were obtained from the hospital information system database. Comparative analyses were performed between the patients who died and the ones who survived. RESULTS: A total of 58 patients who received tocilizumab treatment were included in this study, among whom 35 (60.3%) died. There was no difference between the mortality and survival groups in terms of white blood cell (WBC), neutrophil, lymphocyte, ferritin or C-reactive protein (CRP) levels detected on admission. WBC, lymphocyte, neutrophil and CRP levels measured on the third and fifth days after tocilizumab administration were found to be significantly lower in the survival group (P < 0.05). In multiple logistic regression analysis, age and oxygen saturation were determined to be independent risk factors for mortality. CONCLUSION: Persistently high WBC, CRP and neutrophil levels and low lymphocyte levels could be considered to be valuable indicators of mortality among COVID-19 patients treated with tocilizumab. Age and low oxygen saturation are independent risk factors for mortality among patients receiving tocilizumab treatment.

VI-RADS score system - A primer for urologists

ABSTRACT Bladder cancer (BCa) is one of the most common cancers worldwide and is also considered to be one of the most relapsing and aggressive neoplasms. About 30% of patients will present with muscle invasive disease, which is associated with a higher risk for metastatic disease. The aim of this article is to review the state of art imaging in Radiology, while providing a complete guide to urologists, with case examples, for the rationale of the development of the Vesical Imaging Reporting and Data System (VI-RADS), a scoring system emphasizing a standardized approach to multiparametric Magnetic Resonance Imaging (mpMRI) acquisition, interpretation, and reporting for BCa. Also, we examine relevant external validation studies and the consolidated literature of mpMRI for bladder cancer. In addition, this article discusses some of the potential clinical implications of this scoring system for disease management and follow-up.

Adverse effects associated with favipiravir in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia: a retrospective study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Favipiravir is generally used in treating coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia in Turkey. OBJECTIVE: To determine the side effects of favipiravir and whether it is a good treatment option. DESIGN AND SETTING: Retrospective study conducted in Atatürk Chest Diseases and Chest Surgery Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey. METHODS: 357 patients who completed favipiravir treatment at the recommended dose were included. 37 patients with drug side effects and 320 patients without drug side effects were examined in two groups. RESULTS: Side effects were observed in 37 (10.36%) out of 357 patients using favipiravir. The most common side effect was liver dysfunction, in 26 (7.28%) of the patients. The following other side effects were also observed: diarrhea (1.4%), nausea (0.84%), abdominal pain (0.28%) and thrombocytopenia (0.28%). One patient (0.28%) presented both increased transaminases and nausea. CONCLUSION: In this study, it was determined that favipiravir may constitute an alternative for treating COVID-19 pneumonia given that its side effects are generally well tolerated and not serious.

Recombinant gonadotropin therapy to improve spermatogenesis in nonobstructive azoospermic patients - A proof of concept study

ABSTRACT Purpose: Nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) associated with primary spermatogenic failure is a common cause of male infertility usually considered untreatable; however, some reports have suggested that hormonal stimulation to boost the intra-testicular testosterone level and spermatogenesis might increase the chance of achieving pregnancy using homologous sperm. Materials and Methods: We report a series of eight NOA males who received long-term treatment with recombinant human chorionic gonadotropin twice a week for spermatogenesis stimulation. Six males received additional recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) supplementation 150-225 IU twice weekly. Results: After recombinant gonadotropin therapy, viable spermatozoa were retrieved from the ejaculate in two patients and by testicular sperm aspiration (TESA) in another two subjects. Singleton spermatozoon retrieved from testes were frozen by vitrification on Cell-Sleeper devices. Two live births were obtained after intracytoplasmic sperm injection with ejaculated spermatozoa and one live birth and an ongoing pregnancy using thawed spermatozoa from TESA. Conclusion: Our proof-of-concept study indicates that hormonal therapy with recombinant gonadotropins could be considered in infertile men with NOA as an alternative to sperm donation. Large-scale studies are needed to substantiate hormone stimulation therapy with recombinant gonadotropins in routine clinical practice for this severe form of male infertility.

Available evidence on HIFU for focal treatment of prostate cancer: a systematic review

ABSTRACT Purpose: Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most common oncologic disease among men. Radical treatment with curative intent provides good oncological results for PCa survivors, although definitive therapy is associated with significant number of serious side-effects. In modern-era of medicine tissue-sparing techniques, such as focal HIFU, have been proposed for PCa patients in order to provide cancer control equivalent to the standard-of-care procedures while reducing morbidities and complications. The aim of this systematic review was to summarise the available evidence about focal HIFU therapy as a primary treatment for localized PCa. Material and methods: We conducted a comprehensive literature review of focal HIFU therapy in the MEDLINE database (PROSPERO: CRD42021235581). Articles published in the English language between 2010 and 2020 with more than 50 patients were included. Results: Clinically significant in-field recurrence and out-of-field progression were detected to 22% and 29% PCa patients, respectively. Higher ISUP grade group, more positive cores at biopsy and bilateral disease were identified as the main risk factors for disease recurrence. The most common strategy for recurrence management was definitive therapy. Six months after focal HIFU therapy 98% of patients were totally continent and 80% of patients retained sufficient erections for sexual intercourse. The majority of complications presented in the early postoperative period and were classified as low-grade. Conclusions: This review highlights that focal HIFU therapy appears to be a safe procedure, while short-term cancer control rate is encouraging. Though, second-line treatment or active surveillance seems to be necessary in a significant number of patients.

Evaluating TIMP-2 and IGFBP-7 as a predictive tool for kidney injury in ureteropelvic junction obstruction

ABSTRACT A major challenge in the management of ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) is the selection of patients who would benefit from surgical treatment. Tissue inhibitor metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2) and insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 7 (IGFBP7) indicate renal cell stress and are associated with cell cycle arrest. The [TIMP-2] [IGFBP7] ratio (Nephrocheck®) has been recently applied in patients in intensive care units patients to predict the development of acute kidney injury. In this study, we evaluated the performance of these biomarkers performance to distinguishing obstructive hydronephrosis (HN) from non-obstructive HN. Materials and Methods: Consecutive patients with UPJO were enrolled in this study. Urinary [TIMP-2] [IGFBP7] and clinical characteristics (hydronephrosis grade, differential renal function, and drainage half-time) were measured in the following groups: 26 children with obstructive HN at initial diagnosis (group 1A) and after six months of dismembered pyeloplasty (group 1B); 22 children with non-obstructive HN (group 2), and 26 children without any urinary tract condition, as the control group (group 3). Results: Comparing the initial samples, [TIMP-2] [IGFBP7] had higher levels in the HN groups and lower levels in the control group; however, no difference was observed between the HN groups (obstructive vs. non-obstructive). After six months of follow-up, patients who underwent dismembered pyeloplasty showed stability in the urinary concentration of [TIMP-2] [IGFBP7]. All patients with [TIMP-2] [IGFBP7] higher than 1.0 (ng/mL)2/1000 had diffuse cortical atrophy on ultrasonography. Conclusions: We showed that urinary levels of urinary [TIMP-2] [IGFBP7] are higher in children with HN than controls. Nephrocheck® is not reliable in predicting the need for surgical intervention for pediatric patients with UPJO.

Indications for accurate and appropriate use of personal protective equipment for healthcare professionals. A systematic review

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: The speed of the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has put enormous pressure on hospitals and other healthcare facilities. This, together with blockages in several countries, has hindered the availability and accessibility of the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE). OBJECTIVE: To identify, systematically evaluate and summarize the available scientific evidence on the efficacy, safety, safe use and reuse of PPE for healthcare professionals, for preventing severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. DESIGN AND SETTING: Systematic review of studies analyzing products for disinfecting and enabling reuse of PPE for coronavirus within the evidence-based health program of a federal university in São Paulo (SP), Brazil. METHODS: A systematic search of the relevant literature was conducted in the PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, SCOPUS, Web of Science and LILACS databases, for articles published up to November 30, 2020. RESULTS: Ten studies were selected. These analyzed the use of N95, surgical and cotton masks, face shields, flexible enclosures with plastic covers or polycarbonate intubation boxes and plastic curtains; and also PPE disinfection using several substances. CONCLUSION: Combined use of a face shield with a N95 mask proved to be superior to other associations for protecting healthcare workers. Some products are useful for disinfecting PPE, such as 70% ethanol, 0.1% sodium hypochlorite and a mixture of quaternary ammonium and H2O2, and hydrogen peroxide. Ultraviolet light and dry heat at 70 °C can be used to decontaminate N95 masks. REGISTRATION NUMBER: DOI: 10.17605/OSF.IO/4V5FD at the OPENSCIENCE Framework.

Could polyhexanide and chlorine dioxide be used as an alternative to chlorhexidine? A systematic review

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Maintenance of oral microbiota balance is the simplest way to prevent infectious oral diseases, through controlling dental biofilm. Combined use of mouthwash and mechanical removal has been shown to be a very effective way for this. OBJECTIVES: To identify clinical studies comparing the antimicrobial effect and possible adverse effects and/or side effects of chlorhexidine-based mouthwashes with those of mouthwashes containing chlorine dioxide and/or polyhexanide, for controlling oral microbiota. DESIGN AND SETTING: Systematic review designed by the stomatology sector of postgraduation in applied dental sciences of Bauru Dentistry School, University of São Paulo, Brazil. METHODS: A systematic review was conducted using online databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Science Direct) up to April 8, 2020. The search was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. RESULTS: The studies included comprised eight articles published between 2001 and 2017. A total of 295 young adults, adults and elderly people were evaluated (males 44.75% and females 55.25%). Three articles compared polyhexanide with chlorhexidine and five articles compared chlorine dioxide with chlorhexidine. No studies comparing all three mouthwashes were found. The concentrations of the study solutions were quite varied, and all rinses had an antimicrobial effect. In four studies, it was stated that no side effects or adverse effects had been found. Three studies did not address these results and only one study addressed side effects and/or adverse effects. CONCLUSION: Mouthwashes containing chlorine dioxide and polyhexanide are viable alternatives to chlorhexidine, since they reduce oral biofilm and have little or no reported side or adverse effects.

Retrospective analysis on efficacy of convalescent plasma in acute respiratory distress syndrome due to COVID-19

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an ongoing global health threat. However, currently, no standard therapy has been approved for the disease. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the clinical effectiveness of convalescent plasma (CP) in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) due to COVID-19. DESIGN AND SETTING: Retrospective study conducted at Kayseri City Education and Research Hospital, Kayseri, Turkey. METHODS: The case group consisted of adult patients (> 18 years) with ARDS due to COVID-19 who received CP in combination with antiviral and supportive treatment. These patients were compared with others who only received antiviral and supportive treatment. RESULTS: During the study period, a total of 30 patients with ARDS due to COVID-19 were included. Eleven patients (36%) received CP in combination with antiviral and supportive treatment, whereas nineteen patients (64%) in the control group only received antiviral and supportive treatment. On admission, the median age, demographic and clinical data and initial laboratory test results were similar between the groups (P > 0.05). On the 14th day of treatment, the laboratory values remained similar between the groups (P > 0.05). The mortality rates were not significantly different between the groups. CONCLUSION: CP treatment did not affect mortality or lead to clinical improvement for COVID-19 patients with ARDS.