Recommendations on the treatment of metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer: Patient selection.

The standard treatment for metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC) is now a combination of androgen deprivation therapy plus an androgen receptor-targeted therapy (abiraterone, apalutamide, enzalutamide or darolutamide), with or without chemotherapy (docetaxel). The selection of suitable patients for each therapeutic approach has become a determining factor to ensure efficacy and minimize side effects. This article combines recent clinical evidence with the accumulated experience of experts in medical oncology, radiation oncology and urology, to provide a comprehensive view and therapeutic recommendations for mHSPC.

TAF7L regulates early stages of male germ cell development in the rat.

Male germ cell development is dependent on the orchestrated regulation of gene networks. TATA-box binding protein associated factors (TAFs) facilitate interactions of TATA-binding protein with the TATA element, which is known to coordinate gene transcription during organogenesis. TAF7 like (Taf7l) is situated on the X chromosome and has been implicated in testis development. We examined the biology of TAF7L in testis development using the rat. Taf7l was prominently expressed in preleptotene to leptotene spermatocytes. To study the impact of TAF7L on the testis we generated a global loss-of-function rat model using CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing. Exon 3 of the Taf7l gene was targeted. A founder was generated possessing a 110 bp deletion within the Taf7l locus, which resulted in a frameshift and the premature appearance of a stop codon. The mutation was effectively transmitted through the germline. Deficits in TAF7L did not adversely affect pregnancy or postnatal survival. However, the Taf7l disruption resulted in male infertility due to compromised testis development and failed sperm production. Mutant germ cells suffer meiotic arrest at late zygotene/early pachynema stages, with defects in sex body formation. This testis phenotype was more pronounced than previously described for the subfertile Taf7l null mouse. We conclude that TAF7L is essential for male germ cell development in the rat.

Conditionally mutant animal model for investigating the invasive trophoblast cell lineage.

Placental development involves coordinated expansion and differentiation of trophoblast cell lineages possessing specialized functions. Among the differentiated trophoblast cell lineages are invasive trophoblast cells, which exit the placenta and invade the uterus, where they restructure the uterine parenchyma and facilitate remodeling of uterine spiral arteries. The rat exhibits deep intrauterine trophoblast cell invasion, a feature shared with human placentation, and is also amenable to gene manipulation using genome-editing techniques. In this investigation, we generated a conditional rat model targeting the invasive trophoblast cell lineage. Prolactin family 7, subfamily b, member 1 (Prl7b1) is uniquely and abundantly expressed in the rat invasive trophoblast cell lineage. Disruption of Prl7b1 did not adversely affect placental development. We demonstrated that the Prl7b1 locus could be effectively used to drive the expression of Cre recombinase in invasive trophoblast cells. Our rat model represents a new tool for investigating candidate genes contributing to the regulation of invasive trophoblast cells and their roles in trophoblast-guided uterine spiral artery remodeling.

Terapia termal con vapor de agua: variaciones técnicas entre hospitales universitarios españoles y eficacia a 2 años de seguimiento / Water vapor thermal therapy: technical variations among spanish hospitals and efficacy at 2-year follow-up

Objetivo El objetivo de este trabajo es conocer experiencia inicial con la terapia térmica con vapor de agua (TTVA) para hiperplasia benigna de próstata (HBP) en los hospitales universitarios españoles, así como describir las diferencias en cuanto a técnica y seguimiento observadas entre los centros. Materiales y métodos Este estudio multicéntrico observacional retrospectivo recogió características basales, datos quirúrgicos, posoperatorios y seguimiento a los uno, tres, seis, 12 y 24 meses, incluyendo cuestionarios validados, variaciones flujométricas, complicaciones y la necesidad de tratamiento farmacológico y quirúrgico tras el procedimiento. También se analizaron los posibles desencadenantes de retención aguda de orina (RAO) en el posoperatorio. Resultados Se incluyeron un total de 105 pacientes. No se observaron diferencias entre los grupos con y sin RAO con respecto a tiempo de sondaje (cinco y 4,3 días respectivamente, p = 0,178), ni volumen prostático (47,9 y 41,4 g, respectivamente, p = 0,147). La mejoría media a los tres, seis, 12 y 24 meses en cuanto de flujo máximo fue de 5,3, 5,2, 4,2 y 3,8 mL/s, respectivamente. En cuanto a la eyaculación, se observa una mejoría en la misma a partir de los tres meses de seguimiento que se mantiene en el tiempo. Conclusiones El tratamiento mínimamente invasivo de HBP con TTVA presenta buenos resultados funcionales a 24 meses de seguimiento, sin afectación significativa de la función sexual y con una baja incidencia de complicaciones. Existen pequeñas variaciones principalmente en cuanto al posoperatorio inmediato entre los hospitales participantes en el estudio. (AU)

Aim The aim of this work is to evaluate the initial experience with water vapor thermal therapy (WVTT) for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in Spanish university hospitals, as well as to describe the differences in technique and follow-up between centers. Materials and Methods This retrospective observational multicenter study collected baseline characteristics, surgical, postoperative and follow-up data at 1, 3, 6, 12 and 24 months, including validated questionnaires, flowmetric variations, complications, and the need for pharmacological or surgical treatment following the procedure. Possible triggers for postoperative acute urinary retention (AUR) were also analyzed. Results A total of 105 patients were included. No differences were observed between the groups with and without AUR with respect to catheterization time (5 and 4.3 days respectively, p = 0.178), or prostate volume (47.9 gr and 41.4 gr respectively, p = 0.147). The mean improvement at 3, 6, 12 and 24 months in terms of peak flow was 5.3, 5.2, 4.2 and 3.8 ml/s, respectively. As for ejaculation, an improvement was observed after 3 months of follow-up and was maintained over time. Conclusions Minimally invasive treatment for BPH with WVTT shows good functional outcomes at 24 months follow-up, without significant impairment of sexual function and a low incidence of complications. There are minor inter-hospital variations, mainly in the immediate postoperative period. (AU)

TAF7L REGULATES EARLY STAGES OF MALE GERM CELL DEVELOPMENT.

Male germ cell development is dependent on the orchestrated regulation of gene networks. TATA-box binding protein associated factors (TAFs) facilitate interactions of TATA-binding protein with the TATA element, which is known to coordinate gene transcription during organogenesis. TAF7 like (Taf7l) is situated on the X chromosome and has been implicated in testis development. We examined the biology of TAF7L in testis development using the rat. Taf7l was prominently expressed in preleptotene to leptotene spermatocytes. To study the impact of TAF7L on the testis we generated a global loss-of-function rat model using CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing. Exon 3 of the Taf7l gene was targeted. A founder was generated possessing a 110 bp deletion within the Taf7l locus, which resulted in a frameshift and the premature appearance of a stop codon. The mutation was effectively transmitted through the germline. Deficits in TAF7L did not adversely affect pregnancy or postnatal survival. However, the Taf7l disruption resulted in male infertility due to compromised testis development and failed sperm production. Mutant germ cells suffer meiotic arrest at the zygotene stage, with defects in sex body formation and meiotic sex chromosome inactivation. This testis phenotype was more pronounced than previously described for the subfertile Taf7l null mouse. We conclude that TAF7L is essential for male germ cell development in the rat.

Extravillous trophoblast cell lineage development is associated with active remodeling of the chromatin landscape.

The extravillous trophoblast cell lineage is a key feature of placentation and successful pregnancy. Knowledge of transcriptional regulation driving extravillous trophoblast cell development is limited. Here, we map the transcriptome and epigenome landscape as well as chromatin interactions of human trophoblast stem cells and their transition into extravillous trophoblast cells. We show that integrating chromatin accessibility, long-range chromatin interactions, transcriptomic, and transcription factor binding motif enrichment enables identification of transcription factors and regulatory mechanisms critical for extravillous trophoblast cell development. We elucidate functional roles for TFAP2C, SNAI1, and EPAS1 in the regulation of extravillous trophoblast cell development. EPAS1 is identified as an upstream regulator of key extravillous trophoblast cell transcription factors, including ASCL2 and SNAI1 and together with its target genes, is linked to pregnancy loss and birth weight. Collectively, we reveal activation of a dynamic regulatory network and provide a framework for understanding extravillous trophoblast cell specification in trophoblast cell lineage development and human placentation.

CONDITIONALLY MUTANT ANIMAL MODEL FOR INVESTIGATING THE INVASIVE TROPHOBLAST CELL LINEAGE.

Placental development involves coordinated expansion and differentiation of trophoblast cell lineages possessing specialized functions. Among the differentiated trophoblast cell lineages are invasive trophoblast cells, which exit the placenta and invade into the uterus where they restructure the uterine parenchyma and facilitate remodeling of uterine spiral arteries. The rat exhibits deep intrauterine trophoblast cell invasion, a feature shared with human placentation, and is also amenable to gene manipulation using genome editing techniques. In this investigation, we generated a conditional rat model targeting the invasive trophoblast cell lineage. Prolactin family 7, subfamily b, member 1 ( Prl7b1 ) is uniquely and abundantly expressed in the rat invasive trophoblast cell lineage. Disruption of Prl7b1 did not adversely affect placental development. We demonstrated that the Prl7b1 locus could be effectively used to drive the expression of Cre recombinase in invasive trophoblast cells. Our rat model represents a new tool for investigating candidate genes contributing to the regulation of invasive trophoblast cells and their contributions to trophoblast-guided uterine spiral artery remodeling.

Water vapor thermal therapy: Technical variations among spanish hospitals and efficacy at 2-year follow-up.

AIM: The aim of this work is to evaluate the initial experience with water vapor thermal therapy (WVTT) for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in Spanish university hospitals, as well as to describe the differences in technique and follow-up between centers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective observational multicenter study collected baseline characteristics, surgical, postoperative and follow-up data at 1, 3, 6, 12 and 24 months, including validated questionnaires, flowmetric variations, complications, and the need for pharmacological or surgical treatment following the procedure. Possible triggers for postoperative acute urinary retention (AUR) were also analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 105 patients were included. No differences were observed between the groups with and without AUR with respect to catheterization time (5 and 4.3 days respectively, P=.178), or prostate volume (47.9g and 41.4g respectively, P=.147). The mean improvement at 3, 6, 12 and 24 months in terms of peak flow was 5.3, 5.2, 4.2 and 3.8ml/s, respectively. As for ejaculation, an improvement was observed after 3 months of follow-up and was maintained over time. CONCLUSIONS: Minimally invasive treatment for BPH with WVTT shows good functional outcomes at 24 months follow-up, without significant impairment of sexual function and a low incidence of complications. There are minor inter-hospital variations, mainly in the immediate postoperative period.

CITED2 is a conserved regulator of the uterine-placental interface.

Establishment of the hemochorial uterine-placental interface requires exodus of trophoblast cells from the placenta and their transformative actions on the uterus, which represent processes critical for a successful pregnancy, but are poorly understood. We examined the involvement of CBP/p300-interacting transactivator with glutamic acid/aspartic acid-rich carboxyl-terminal domain 2 (CITED2) in rat and human trophoblast cell development. The rat and human exhibit deep hemochorial placentation. CITED2 was distinctively expressed in the junctional zone (JZ) and invasive trophoblast cells of the rat. Homozygous Cited2 gene deletion resulted in placental and fetal growth restriction. Small Cited2 null placentas were characterized by disruptions in the JZ, delays in intrauterine trophoblast cell invasion, and compromised plasticity. In the human placentation site, CITED2 was uniquely expressed in the extravillous trophoblast (EVT) cell column and importantly contributed to the development of the EVT cell lineage. We conclude that CITED2 is a conserved regulator of deep hemochorial placentation.

Resultados preliminares de un trabajo multicéntrico a nivel nacional para el tratamiento de STUI secundario a hiperplasia benigna de próstata mediante el sistema con vapor de agua Rezum / Preliminary results of a national multicenter study on the treatment of LUTS secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia using the Rezum steam system

Introducción y objetivo El sistema Rezūm® t/o es una técnica mínimamente invasiva que emplea la inyección intraprostática transuretral de vapor de agua para la ablación del tejido prostático. El objetivo del estudio es reflejar los resultados funcionales a corto plazo y de seguridad obtenidos aplicando la técnica en la práctica clínica real. Material y métodos Estudio prospectivo realizado en 5 hospitales españoles para el tratamiento de STUI secundario a HBP mediante el sistema Rezūm®. Se incluyeron pacientes con lóbulo medio prostático (LM) y portadores de sonda vesical (SV). La valoración pre- y postoperatoria se realizó con los cuestionarios IPSS, IIEF-5 y QoL, los resultados flujométricos y el residuo posmiccional. Se registraron las complicaciones acontecidas, así como la tasa de retratamientos al año de seguimiento. Resultados Un total de 137 pacientes fueron incluidos, presentando 64 pacientes LM y 10 pacientes SV. La media de volumen prostático fue de 50cm3 (15-131). A los 3 meses de seguimiento se objetivó una mejoría estadísticamente significativa tanto del IPSS (−6,37 puntos) como del Qmax (+4,95mL/s) y el QoL (−1,29) que se mantuvo hasta los 12 meses: −10,78 puntos, +4,62mL/s y −2,73 (p<0,001), respectivamente. No se objetivaron cambios significativos en la esfera sexual. Todas las complicaciones fueron de carácter leve (≤ClavienII). La tasa de retratamiento al año fue del 4,3%. Conclusión Los resultados a corto plazo de esta técnica son prometedores, mostrando mejoría en los resultados funcionales, sin repercusión en la esfera sexual y asumiendo complicaciones de carácter leve y corta duración. Sin embargo, son necesarios seguimientos más prolongados para establecer su durabilidad y realizar comparaciones directas con otros tratamientos (AU)

Introduction and objective Rezūm® system is a minimally invasive transurethral therapy that uses convective water vapor energy to ablate prostatic tissue. The objective is to report 1-year functional and security outcomes obtained by using this technique in real clinical practice. Material and methods Prospective study conducted in 5 Spanish hospitals for the treatment of LUTS secondary to BPH using the Rezūm® system. Patients with prostatic medium lobe (ML) and urethral catheter carriers were also included. Pre- and post-operative data were collected using IPSS, IIEF-5 and QoL questionnaires, flowmetry and post-void residual volume. Complications and retreatment rate at one-year follow-up were also reported. Results 137 patients, including 64 with ML and 10 patients with urinary retention were treated. Median prostate volume was 50cm3 (15-131). At 3 months follow-up, significant improvement was observed in IPSS (−6,37 points), Qmax (+4,95mL/s) and QoL (−1,29); and was maintained until 12 months: −10,78 points,+4,62mL/s and −2,73 respectively (p<0.001). No significant changes were observed in the sexual sphere. All complications were mild (≤Clavien II). Retreatment rate at one year was 4%. Conclusion Short-term results of this technique are promising, showing improvement in terms of functional outcomes, with no impact on the sexual sphere or complications. Longer term follow-up should include treatment durability and comparison to standard BPH treatments (AU)

Preliminary results of a national multicenter study on the treatment of LUTS secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia using the Rezum® steam system.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Rezum® system is a minimally invasive transurethral therapy that uses convective water vapor energy to ablate prostatic tissue. The objective is to report 1-year functional and security outcomes obtained by using this technique in real clinical practice. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Prospective study conducted in 5 Spanish hospitals for the treatment of LUTS secondary to BPH using the Rezum® system. Patients with prostatic medium lobe (ML) and urethral catheter carriers were also included. Pre- and post-operative data were collected using IPSS, IIEF-5 and QoL questionnaires, flowmetry and post-void residual volume. Complications and retreatment rate at one-year follow-up were also reported. RESULTS: 137 patients, including 64 with ML and 10 patients with urinary retention were treated. Median prostate volume was 50 cm3 (15-131). At 3 months follow-up, significant improvement was observed in IPSS (-6.37 points), Qmax (+4.95 mL/s) and QoL (-1.29); and was maintained until 12 months: -10.78 points, +4.62 mL/s and -2.73 respectively (p < 0.001). No significant changes were observed in the sexual sphere. All complications were mild (≤ Clavien II). Retreatment rate at one year was 4%. CONCLUSION: Short-term results of this technique are promising, showing improvement in terms of functional outcomes, with no impact on the sexual sphere or complications. Longer term follow-up should include treatment durability and comparison to standard BPH treatments.

Estenosis de la anastomosis ureteroileal en derivaciones urinarias realizadas mediante abordaje abierto, laparoscópico y robótico. Incidencia y manejo en un centro de tercer nivel / Ureteroileal anastomosis stricture after urinary diversions performed by open, laparoscopic and robotic approaches. Incidence and management in a tertiary care center

Introducción Las estenosis de anastomosis ureteroileal son complicaciones frecuentes en conductos ileales y neovejigas ortotópicas. Analizamos su incidencia en función del tipo de derivación urinaria y del abordaje quirúrgico (abierto, laparoscópico o robótico). Describimos su manejo y los resultados obtenidos.Material y métodos Estudio retrospectivo descriptivo durante 6 años en pacientes con derivación urinaria empleando íleon (conducto ileal o neovejiga ileal). Se recogen datos demográficos, comorbilidades, datos quirúrgicos (abordaje, complicaciones) y resultados. Seguimiento mínimo de un año. Comparación entre grupos, mediante test de la chi al cuadrado en variables dicotómicas. Variables cuantitativas comparadas empleando la prueba de la t Student para grupos independientes o la prueba de Mann-Whitney. Consideramos significación estadística p<0,05.Resultados Incluimos a 182 pacientes (84% varones y 16% mujeres). Edad media 68 años. Abordaje de cistectomía: laparoscópica (67/37%), robótica (63/35%), abierta (43/24%). Tipo de derivación: conducto ileal (138/76%) y neovejiga ileal ortotópica (44/24%). Tipo de reimplante: Bricker (108/59%) y Wallace (47/26%). Estenosis de anastomosis ureteroileal (50/27%): bilateral (26), izquierda (16) y derecha (8). Estenosis según abordaje de cistectomía: laparoscópica (23/46%), robótica (16/32%), abierta (9/18%). Tratamiento de estenosis (33/18%): reimplante ureteroileal (13), nefrostomía permanente (13), dilatación endoscópica (4), nefroureterectomía (2), endoureterotomía (1). Abordaje del reimplante: laparoscópico (5/38%), robótico (6/46%) y abierto (2/15%). Resultados tras reimplantes: reestenosis (0/0%), reintervención (3/23%), estenosis ureteroileal contralateral posterior (1/8%).ConclusiónEl tipo de abordaje empleado en la cistectomía no parece influir en la aparición de estenosis ureteroileales. Abordajes laparoscópicos y robóticos permiten su reparación con resultados

Introduction Ureteroileal anastomosis stricture is a frequent complication after radical cystectomy and ileal conduit or orthotopic neobladder formation. We analyze their incidence based on the technique for urinary diversion and on the surgical approach (open, laparoscopic or robot-assisted). Stricture management is described, along with surgical outcomes.Material and methodsDescriptive retrospective study over 6 years in patients who underwent urinary diversion using ileum (ileal conduit or orthotopic neobladder). Demographic data, comorbidities, surgical approach, complications, and outcomes were collected. Minimum follow-up of 1 year. Comparison between groups using Chi-square test for dichotomous variables. Quantitative variables were compared using the Student's t test for independent groups or Mann-Whitney test. Statistical significance if P<.05.Results The study included 182 patients (84% males and 16% females). Mean age 68 years. Cystectomy approach: laparoscopic (67/37%), robot-assisted (63/35%), open (43/24%). Urinary diversion: ileal conduit (138/76%) and orthotopic ileal neobladder (44/24%). Ureteric reimplantation technique: Bricker (108/59%) and Wallace (47/26%). Ureteroileal anastomosis strictures (50/27%): bilateral (26), left (16) and right (8). Strictures according to cystectomy approach: laparoscopic (23/46%), robot-assisted (16/32%), open (9/18%). Treatment of strictures (33/18%): ureteric reimplantation (13), indwelling nephrostomy (13), endoscopic dilatation (4), nephroureterectomy (2), endoureterotomy (1). Ureteroileal reimplantation approach: laparoscopic (5/38%), robot-assisted (6/46%), open (2/15%). Outcomes after reimplantation: restenosis (0/0%), reintervention (3/23%), contralateral ureteroileal stricture (1/8%).Conclusion Surgical approach in cystectomy does not influence future development of ureteroileal strictures. Laparoscopic and robot-assisted ureteroileal reimplantation achieves high success rates (AU)

Ureteroileal anastomosis stricture after urinary diversions performed by open, laparoscopic and robotic approaches. Incidence and management in a tertiary care center.

INTRODUCTION: Ureteroileal anastomosis stricture is a frequent complication after radical cystectomy and ileal conduit or orthotopic neobladder formation. We analyze their incidence based on the technique for urinary diversion and on the surgical approach (open, laparoscopic or robot-assisted). Stricture management is described, along with surgical outcomes. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Descriptive retrospective study over 6 years in patients who underwent urinary diversion using ileum (ileal conduit or orthotopic neobladder). Demographic data, comorbidities, surgical approach, complications, and outcomes were collected. Minimum follow-up of 1 year. Comparison between groups using Chi-square test for dichotomous variables. Quantitative variables were compared using the Student's t-test for independent groups or Mann-Whitney test. Statistical significance if P < .05. RESULTS: The study included 182 patients (84% males and 16% females). Mean age 68 years. Cystectomy approach: laparoscopic (67/37%), robot-assisted (63/35%), open (43/24%). Urinary diversion: ileal conduit (138/76%) and orthotopic ileal neobladder (44/24%). Uretericre implantation technique: Bricker (108/59%) and Wallace (47/26%). Ureteroileal anastomosis strictures (50/27%): bilateral (26), left (16) and right (8). Strictures according to cystectomy approach: laparoscopic (23/46%), robot-assisted (16/32%), open (9/18%). Treatment of strictures (33/18%): ureteric reimplantation (13), indwelling nephrostomy (13), endoscopic dilatation (4), nephroureterectomy (2), endoureterotomy (1). Ureteroileal reimplantation approach: laparoscopic (5/38%), robot-assisted (6/46%), open (2/15%). Outcomes after reimplantation: restenosis (0/0%), reintervention (3/23%), contralateral ureteroileal stricture (1/8%). CONCLUSION: Surgical approach in cystectomy does not influence future development of ureteroileal strictures. Laparoscopic and robot-assisted ureteroileal reimplantation achieves high success rates.

Ureteroileal anastomosis stricture after urinary diversions performed by open, laparoscopic and robotic approaches. Incidence and management in a tertiary care center. / Estenosis de la anastomosis ureteroileal en derivaciones urinarias realizadas mediante abordaje abierto, laparoscópico y robótico. Incidencia y manejo en un centro de tercer nivel.

INTRODUCTION: Ureteroileal anastomosis stricture is a frequent complication after radical cystectomy and ileal conduit or orthotopic neobladder formation. We analyze their incidence based on the technique for urinary diversion and on the surgical approach (open, laparoscopic or robot-assisted). Stricture management is described, along with surgical outcomes. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Descriptive retrospective study over 6 years in patients who underwent urinary diversion using ileum (ileal conduit or orthotopic neobladder). Demographic data, comorbidities, surgical approach, complications, and outcomes were collected. Minimum follow-up of 1 year. Comparison between groups using Chi-square test for dichotomous variables. Quantitative variables were compared using the Student's t test for independent groups or Mann-Whitney test. Statistical significance if P<.05. RESULTS: The study included 182 patients (84% males and 16% females). Mean age 68 years. Cystectomy approach: laparoscopic (67/37%), robot-assisted (63/35%), open (43/24%). Urinary diversion: ileal conduit (138/76%) and orthotopic ileal neobladder (44/24%). Ureteric reimplantation technique: Bricker (108/59%) and Wallace (47/26%). Ureteroileal anastomosis strictures (50/27%): bilateral (26), left (16) and right (8). Strictures according to cystectomy approach: laparoscopic (23/46%), robot-assisted (16/32%), open (9/18%). Treatment of strictures (33/18%): ureteric reimplantation (13), indwelling nephrostomy (13), endoscopic dilatation (4), nephroureterectomy (2), endoureterotomy (1). Ureteroileal reimplantation approach: laparoscopic (5/38%), robot-assisted (6/46%), open (2/15%). Outcomes after reimplantation: restenosis (0/0%), reintervention (3/23%), contralateral ureteroileal stricture (1/8%). CONCLUSION: Surgical approach in cystectomy does not influence future development of ureteroileal strictures. Laparoscopic and robot-assisted ureteroileal reimplantation achieves high success rates.

Radiofrecuencia percutánea en el tratamiento de masas renales pequeñas: análisis de resultados y complicaciones tras diez años de experiencia / Percutaneous radiofrequency for the treatment of small renal masses: Analysis of outcomes and complications after 10 years of experience

Introducción y objetivo: El manejo de tumoraciones renales ≤ 4 cm en población anciana o con comorbilidades supone un reto, constituyendo las terapias ablativas una alternativa interesante. El objetivo es evaluar la radiofrecuencia percutánea en el tratamiento de masas renales pequeñas en nuestro centro, las complicaciones asociadas y los resultados obtenidos.Material y métodosEvaluación retrospectiva de las radiofrecuencias realizadas entre abril de 2010 y abril de 2020 en nuestro centro. Se revisaron datos demográficos, comorbilidades asociadas, características tumorales, complicaciones y resultados oncológicos y funcionales.ResultadosSe trataron 57 tumores en 53 pacientes. Seguimiento medio de 48,2 meses. Se obtuvo un 89,5% de ablaciones completas. Hubo un 19,3% de complicaciones. Fueron catalogadas como mayores un 3,5% y un 5,3% según Clavien-Dindo y SIR. Se encontró asociación estadísticamente significativa entre el resultado inicial de la ablación y la edad (p = 0,047), el score RENAL modificado (RENAL-m) (p = 0,044), la presencia de componente quístico (p = 0,049) y el tamaño tumoral (p = 0,01). El punto de corte de tamaño quedó establecido en 25 mm (p = 0,012). En el análisis multivariante, únicamente el tamaño permaneció como predictor de resultado inicial de ablación (p = 0,01; OR 1,183; IC 95% 1,041-1,345). La supervivencia cáncer específica y supervivencia libre de recurrencia a cinco años fueron del 98,1% y del 89,5% respectivamente.Se observó una disminución media del MDRD-4 de 6,59 mL/min (p = 0,005) en los seis primeros meses tras radiofrecuencia (RFA).ConclusionesDados los excelentes resultados oncológicos y funcionales demostrados, la radiofrecuencia percutánea guiada por ecografía es una terapia eficaz y segura en el tratamiento de masas renales pequeñas en pacientes seleccionados. (AU)

Introduction and objective: The management of renal tumors ≤ 4 cm in elderly population or patients with comorbidities is a challenge, for which ablative therapies are an interesting alternative. The objective is to evaluate in our center the role of percutaneous radiofrequency in the treatment of small renal masses, the associated complications and the results obtained.Material and methodsRetrospective evaluation of the radiofrequency treatments carried out between April 2010 and April 2020 in our center. Demographic data, associated comorbidities, tumor characteristics, complications and oncological and functional outcomes were reviewed.ResultsFifty-seven tumors were treated in 53 patients. Mean follow-up of 48.2 months. The percentage of complete ablations obtained was of 89.5%. There were 19.3% of complications. According to Clavien-Dindo and SIR classification systems, 3.5% and 5.3% were major complications. A statistically significant association was found between the initial result of ablation and age (p = 0.047), RENAL-m (p = 0.044), the presence of cystic component (p = 0.049) and tumor size (p = 0.01). The cut-off point for size was established at 25 mm (p = 0.012). In multivariate analysis, only size remained as a predictor of initial ablation result (p = 0.01; OR 1.183; CI 95% 1.041-1.345). Cancer-specific survival and 5-year recurrence-free survival were 98.1% and 89.5%, respectively.A mean decrease of MDRD-4 of 6.59 mL/min (p = 0.005) was observed in the first six months after RFA.ConclusionsGiven the excellent oncological and functional results demonstrated, ultrasound-guided percutaneous radiofrequency ablation is an effective and safe treatment for small renal masses in selected patients. (AU)

Actividad y resultados a corto plazo del trasplante renal durante la pandemia COVID-19 / Activity and short-term outcomes of kidney transplantation during the COVID-19 pandemic

INTRODUCCIÓN: Durante la pandemia COVID-19, la actividad nacional de trasplante se ha visto reducida por la sobrecarga del sistema sanitario y la preocupación por la seguridad de los pacientes en esta situación. El objetivo de nuestro trabajo es exponer la actividad de trasplante renal en Cantabria durante el estado de alarma, así como valorar la seguridad del programa de trasplante. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Estudio retrospectivo de los trasplantes renales realizados en nuestro Centro desde el inicio del estado de alarma hasta el inicio del desconfinamiento en Cantabria. Análisis descriptivo de los datos demográficos de receptores y sus donantes, datos intraoperatorios y resultados postoperatorios. Análisis comparativo con los datos del mismo periodo de 2017-2019, mediante los estadísticos χ2 para variables categóricas, T-Student y U de Mann-Whitney en caso de variables cuantitativas de distribución normal y no normal, respectivamente. RESULTADOS: Se realizaron 15 trasplantes renales en el periodo descrito. El 7,5% de pacientes presentaron función renal retrasada (FRR); el 26,6% mostró datos de rechazo agudo; ningún paciente presentó enfermedad por COVID-19. En el análisis comparativo, es llamativo el aumento del número de trasplantes frente a periodos anteriores (15 vs. 5,6), a expensas de donantes de fuera de Cantabria (93,3%). No encontramos diferencias estadísticamente significativas en cuanto a tiempo de isquemia fría (p = 0,77), FRR (p = 0,73), necesidad de diálisis (p = 0,54), o aparición de complicaciones posquirúrgicas (p = 0,61). CONCLUSIONES: La evolución de la pandemia en nuestra región y la adopción de medidas de protección rigurosas han permitido reiniciar el programa de trasplante renal de una forma temprana y segura, aumentando el número de trasplantes realizados frente a años anteriores y manteniendo unos resultados postoperatorios tempranos comparables

INTRODUCTION: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the national transplant activity has been reduced due to the overload of the health system and concern for patient safety in this situation. The aim of our work is to expose the activity of kidney transplantation in Cantabria during the state of alarm, as well as to assess the safety of the transplantation program. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective study of kidney transplants performed in our Center from the beginning of the state of alarm until the beginning of the lockdown easing in Cantabria. Descriptive analysis of the demographic data of recipients and their donors, intraoperative data and postoperative outcomes. Comparative analysis with the data of the same period in 2017-2019, by means of the χ2 for categorical variables, Student's T and Mann-Whitney U tests in case of quantitative variables of normal and non-normal distribution, respectively. RESULTS: Fifteen kidney transplants were performed in the period described. Delayed renal function (DRF) was seen in 7.5% of patients, and 26.6% showed data of acute rejection; no patient presented COVID-19 disease. Comparative analysis showed a remarkable increase in the number of transplants in comparison with previous periods (15 vs 5.6), at the expense of donors from outside Cantabria (93.3%). We found no statistically significant differences in terms of cold ischemia time (p = 0.77), DRF (p = 0.73), need for dialysis (p = 0.54), or appearance of post-surgical complications (p = 0.61). CONCLUSIONS: The evolution of the pandemic in our region, and the adoption of strict protective measures has allowed the early and safe resumption of the renal transplantation program, increasing the number of transplants performed compared to previous years and maintaining comparable early post-operative results

Percutaneous radiofrequency for the treatment of small renal masses: Analysis of outcomes and complications after 10 years of experience. / Radiofrecuencia percutánea en el tratamiento de masas renales pequeñas: análisis de resultados y complicaciones tras diez años de experiencia.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: The management of renal tumors ≤ 4 cm in elderly population or patients with comorbidities is a challenge, for which ablative therapies are an interesting alternative. The objective is to evaluate in our center the role of percutaneous radiofrequency in the treatment of small renal masses, the associated complications and the results obtained. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective evaluation of the radiofrequency treatments carried out between April 2010 and April 2020 in our center. Demographic data, associated comorbidities, tumor characteristics, complications and oncological and functional outcomes were reviewed. RESULTS: Fifty-seven tumors were treated in 53 patients. Mean follow-up of 48.2 months. The percentage of complete ablations obtained was of 89.5%. There were 19.3% of complications. According to Clavien-Dindo and SIR classification systems, 3.5% and 5.3% were major complications. A statistically significant association was found between the initial result of ablation and age (p = 0.047), RENAL-m (p = 0.044), the presence of cystic component (p = 0.049) and tumor size (p = 0.01). The cut-off point for size was established at 25 mm (p = 0.012). In multivariate analysis, only size remained as a predictor of initial ablation result (p = 0.01; OR 1.183; CI 95% 1.041-1.345). Cancer-specific survival and 5-year recurrence-free survival were 98.1% and 89.5%, respectively. A mean decrease of MDRD-4 of 6.59 mL/min (p = 0.005) was observed in the first six months after RFA. CONCLUSIONS: Given the excellent oncological and functional results demonstrated, ultrasound-guided percutaneous radiofrequency ablation is an effective and safe treatment for small renal masses in selected patients.

Understanding new molecular and cell biology findings based on progressive scientific practices and interconnected activities in undergraduate students.

Nowadays Molecular Cell Biology (MCB) must be taught as science is practiced. Even though there are several approaches based on scientific practices, a key aspect is to define the purpose of each of these teaching strategies and, most importantly, their implementation. Our goal was to train students to acquire, understand, and communicate new scientific knowledge in the field. The main feature of our new teaching methodology was progressive training in scientific practices associated with a back-and-forward interplay between activities and assessments. The methodology was implemented over 4 years, in students attending the MCB course of the undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences. In the first two modules, the students were prepared to comprehend MCB concepts and techniques and to experience activities based on scientific practices. In the third module, the students analyzed a primary paper in-depth. They were assessed by midterm exams based on a primary paper, written laboratory reports, and the oral presentation of a scientific paper. Our teaching proposal was evaluated through the students' academic performance and by their opinion on the teaching methodology. Most students were satisfied since they improved their acquisition of concepts, their interpretation and integration of scientific knowledge, and developed skills to communicate scientific knowledge in writing and orally. The novelty of transversal interconnections and progressive training in scientific practices provides students with skills in acquiring and understanding new scientific information, even beyond the MCB course.

Activity and short-term outcomes of kidney transplantation during the COVID-19 pandemic. / Actividad y resultados a corto plazo del trasplante renal durante la pandemia COVID-19.

INTRODUCTION: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the national transplant activity has been reduced due to the overload of the health system and concern for patient safety in this situation. The aim of our work is to expose the activity of kidney transplantation in Cantabria during the state of alarm, as well as to assess the safety of the transplantation program. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective study of kidney transplants performed in our Center from the beginning of the state of alarm until the beginning of the lockdown easing in Cantabria. Descriptive analysis of the demographic data of recipients and their donors, intraoperative data and postoperative outcomes. Comparative analysis with the data of the same period in 2017-2019, by means of the χ2 for categorical variables, Student's T and Mann-Whitney U tests in case of quantitative variables of normal and non-normal distribution, respectively. RESULTS: Fifteen kidney transplants were performed in the period described. Delayed renal function (DRF) was seen in 7.5% of patients, and 26.6% showed data of acute rejection; no patient presented COVID-19 disease. Comparative analysis showed a remarkable increase in the number of transplants in comparison with previous periods (15 vs 5.6), at the expense of donors from outside Cantabria (93.3%). We found no statistically significant differences in terms of cold ischemia time (p=0.77), DRF (p=0.73), need for dialysis (p=0.54), or appearance of post-surgical complications (p=0.61). CONCLUSIONS: The evolution of the pandemic in our region, and the adoption of strict protective measures has allowed the early and safe resumption of the renal transplantation program, increasing the number of transplants performed compared to previous years and maintaining comparable early post-operative results.

Reactive oxygen species are involved in the signaling of equine sperm chemotaxis.

Sperm chemotaxis may facilitate the finding of the oocyte. Only capacitated spermatozoa can orient their movement by chemotaxis, which as well as capacitation, is regulated in part by the cAMP-PKA pathway. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are produced during sperm capacitation which is closely related to chemotaxis. Then, the ROS participation in the chemotactic signaling can be expected. Here we studied the role of ROS in the chemotaxis signaling of equine spermatozoa which produce high quantities of ROS because of their energy metabolism. The level of capacitated and chemotactic spermatozoa was increased with 0.1 and 0.2 mM hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), which was involved in the chemotactic signaling. By combining a concentration gradient of H2O2 with inhibitors/chelators of some of the signaling pathway elements, we showed that the activation of NOX (membrane NADPH oxidase) increases the intracellular ROS which activate the chemotaxis AMPc-PKA pathway. Our results provide evidence about the participation of ROS in the chemotactic signaling mediated by progesterone (P).