Pilot therapeutic education program in multiple system atrophy: Safety, quality of life and satisfaction from a national registry based longitudinal study.

BACKGROUND: Therapeutic education programs are effective in several chronic conditions. However, evidence is lacking in multiple system atrophy (MSA). We aimed to assess efficacy and safety of a comprehensive therapeutic education program in people with MSA (PwMSA) and their caregivers. METHODS: In this prospective longitudinal study we included 16 PwMSA and their main caregivers in 4 groups of 4 dyads each. The program consisted of eight 60-min interdisciplinary sessions: introduction, orthostatic hypotension, speech therapy, gait and respiratory physiotherapy, psychological support, urinary dysfunction, occupational therapy/social work. UMSARS, NMSS, PDQ39, EQ5 and Zarit scales were administered at baseline and 6 months later. After each session participants filled-out a modified EduPark satisfaction questionnaire and a Likert scale. Educational material was generated for each session after suggestions by participants. RESULTS: At baseline PwMSA and caregivers were comparable in age and sex, with significant correlation between UMSARS-IV (disability) and PDQ39 (quality of life). Adherence to sessions was of 94,92 %. Total modified EduPark scores and Likert scales did not differ in PwMSA vs. caregivers, mild-moderate vs. severe-advanced cases or between genders. The significant difference in satisfaction across sessions (p = 0.03) was driven by higher scores in speech, respiratory and occupational therapy sessions. Longitudinally there was no significant worsening in any scale, nor a significant increase post-vs. pre-program in the number of consultations. CONCLUSIONS: The healthcare education program in MSA was feasible, satisfactory, and safe for patients and caregivers. The educational material of the program is being forwarded to incident MSA cases attending our clinic.

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)

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.

Resultados funcionales después de crioterapia prostática / Functional outcomes after prostatic cryosurgery

Objetivo: Evaluar las implicaciones funcionales de la crioterapia (CT) prostática sobre la micción. Material y métodos: Estudio prospectivo de los pacientes tratados mediante CT prostática por cáncer de próstata entre 2013 y 2015. Un mes previo a la cirugía se realizó el cuestionario IPSS con una pregunta sobre calidad de vida (QoL), un diario miccional de 3 días (DM3D) y una flujometría con cálculo ecográfico del residuo posmiccional (RPM). También evaluamos la necesidad de tratamiento médico para sintomatología del tracto urinario inferior (STUI). A los 3, 6 y 12 meses tras la CT, los pacientes se sometieron a la misma evaluación. Los resultados tras la cirugía se compararon con los previos a CT. Resultados: Cuarenta y cinco pacientes se sometieron a CT en el período del estudio y 25 pudieron incluirse en el estudio. La edad media fue 73,5 años (rango 66-84). Diecinueve CT (76%) se realizaron como procedimiento primario, mientras 6 CT (24%) como procedimiento de rescate. No se encontraron diferencias significativas en los resultados del IPSS, QoL, DM3D, o RPM entre los 3, 6 o 12 meses tras la CT respecto a antes de a la CT. Previo a la CT, 8 (32%) pacientes recibían tratamiento médico para STUI, mientras a los 6 y 12 meses, 3 (13,6%) y 2 (9,5%) pacientes recibían tratamiento, respectivamente. Conclusión: De acuerdo con los resultados del IPSS, QoL y diario miccional, la CT no empeora la STUI. La CT no parece afectar a los resultados de la flujometría

Objective: To assess the functional effects of prostatic cryosurgery on micturition. Material and methods: Prospective study of men who underwent cryosurgery (CS) for prostate cancer between 2013 - 2015. Low urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and quality of life (QoL) were assessed 1 month before surgery using IPSS questionnaire, a three-day voiding diary (3DVD) and uroflowmetry with ultrasound-measured postvoid residual volume. Need of medical treatment for LUTS was also recorded. The same assessment was performed at 3, 6 and 12 months after CS. Outcomes after surgery were compared to those prior to surgery. Results: Forty-five patients underwent a CS during the study period, of whom 25 patients could be recruited in the study. Mean age was 73.5 years (range 66-84). Nineteen CS (76%) were performed as a primary procedure, while 6 CS (24%) as a salvage procedure. No statistical differences were found comparing results of IPSS, QoL, D3vd or uroflowmetry and PVR at 3, 6 or 12 months after CS compared to before surgery. Before CS, 8 (32%) patients were on medical treatment for LUTS, while at 6 and 12 months after surgery, 3 (13.6%) and 2 (9.5%) patients required some medication, respectively. Conclusion: According to the punctuation of IPSS, QoL questionnaire, and a 3-day voiding diary, LUTS does not worsen after CS. Prostatic cryosurgery does not seem to impact uroflowmetry results

Functional outcomes after prostatic cryosurgery. / Resultados funcionales después de crioterapia prostática.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the functional effects of prostatic cryosurgery on micturition. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Prospective study of men who underwent cryosurgery (CS) for prostate cancer between 2013 - 2015. Low urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and quality of life (QoL) were assessed 1 month before surgery using IPSS questionnaire, a three-day voiding diary (3DVD) and uroflowmetry with ultrasound-measured postvoid residual volume. Need of medical treatment for LUTS was also recorded. The same assessment was performed at 3, 6 and 12 months after CS. Outcomes after surgery were compared to those prior to surgery. RESULTS: Forty-five patients underwent a CS during the study period, of whom 25 patients could be recruited in the study. Mean age was 73.5 years (range 66-84). Nineteen CS (76%) were performed as a primary procedure, while 6 CS (24%) as a salvage procedure. No statistical differences were found comparing results of IPSS, QoL, D3vd or uroflowmetry and PVR at 3, 6 or 12 months after CS compared to before surgery. Before CS, 8 (32%) patients were on medical treatment for LUTS, while at 6 and 12 months after surgery, 3 (13.6%) and 2 (9.5%) patients required some medication, respectively. CONCLUSION: According to the punctuation of IPSS, QoL questionnaire, and a 3-day voiding diary, LUTS does not worsen after CS. Prostatic cryosurgery does not seem to impact uroflowmetry results.

Consenso de la Asociación Española de Urología en el diagnóstico y manejo del síndrome de dolor vesical / Recommendations for the Diagnosis and Management of Bladder Pain Syndrome. Spanish Urological Association Consensus Document

Introducción: El síndrome de dolor vesical/cistitis intersticial (SDV/CI) y otras enfermedades vesicales comparten una sintomatología común, como la presencia de los síntomas miccionales y la repercusión negativa sobre la calidad de vida de los pacientes. Para su correcto diagnóstico y manejo clínico es importante distinguir entre sus diferentes modalidades clínicas y criterios diagnósticos de exclusión adecuados. Objetivo: El propósito de este trabajo ha sido homogeneizar los criterios para la toma de decisiones en el manejo del SDV, tanto en su diagnóstico y tratamiento inicial como en su seguimiento. Material y método: Se utilizó metodología de grupo nominal, utilizando para la elaboración de las recomendaciones las evidencias científicas sobre el SDV extraídas de una revisión sistemática (no exhaustiva) de la literatura, junto con el juicio experto de especialistas. Resultados: El diagnóstico del SDV debe hacerse basándose en la historia clínica del paciente, prestando importancia al dolor y a los síntomas miccionales y a la exclusión de otras enfermedades de sintomatología parecida. El tratamiento del SDV debe dirigirse a la restauración de la función vesical normal, la prevención de recaídas de los síntomas y la mejora de la calidad de vida de los pacientes. Para ello es recomendable empezar con un tratamiento conservador y adoptar tratamientos menos conservadores conforme el nivel de gravedad clínica aumenta. También se recomienda abandonar tratamientos ineficaces y replantearse otras opciones terapéuticas. Conclusiones: La rápida identificación de la enfermedad resulta importante para intentar influir positivamente en los indicadores de morbilidad y la calidad asistencial de estos pacientes

Introduction: Bladder Pain Syndrome/Interstitial Cystitis (BPS/IC) and other bladder pathologies share common manifestations, such as the presence of mictional symptoms and a negative impact on the patient's quality of life. To be properly diagnosed and clinically managed, it is important to distinguish between its clinical modalities and diagnostic criteria for adequate exclusion. Objective: The purpose of this study was to standardize criteria for making decisions in BPS management, for its diagnosis, initial treatment and follow-up. Material and method: A nominal group methodology was employed, using scientific evidence on BPS taken from a systematic (non-exhaustive) literature review for developing recommendations along with specialist expert opinions. Results: The diagnosis of BPS should be made based on the patient's clinical history, with emphasis on pain and mictional symptoms as well as excluding other pathologies with similar symptomatology. BPS treatment should be directed towards restoring normal bladder function, preventing symptom relapse and improving patients’ quality of life. It is therefore advisable to start with conservative treatment and to adopt less conservative treatments as the level of clinical severity increases. It is also recommended to abandon ineffective treatments and reconsider other therapeutic options conclusions

Documento de consenso de la Asociación Española de Urología en el manejo de las infecciones del tracto urinario recurrentes no complicadas / Consensus document of the Spanish Urological Association on the management of uncomplicated recurrent urinary tract infections

Introducción: Las manifestaciones clínicas de las infecciones urinarias, habitualmente leves y no complicadas, ha ocasionado que la toma de decisiones terapéuticas sea generalmente empírica, lo que no ayuda a combatir las resistencias a los antibacterianos, relacionándose con una alta tasa de recurrencias. Objetivo: Este trabajo pretende reducir la variabilidad clínica en el diagnóstico y tratamiento de las infecciones del tracto urinario recurrentes (ITUR) no complicadas. Material y método: El documento de consenso se realizó mediante metodología grupo nominal, utilizando evidencias científicas sobre ITUR extraídas de una revisión sistemática (no exhaustiva) de la literatura, junto al juicio experto de especialistas y a su experiencia en práctica clínica. Resultados: Se considera ITUR la manifestación de al menos 3 episodios de infección no complicada con cultivo positivo en los últimos 12 meses, añadiéndose, en el caso de los hombres, la ausencia de anormalidades estructurales o funcionales. Se mantiene que el tratamiento bajo sospecha de ITUR debe ser empírico, previo a la obtención de una muestra de orina para el cultivo, en aquellos pacientes que presenten una alta probabilidad de recurrencia, factores de riesgo asociados y/o sintomatología urinaria o general, como fiebre o escalofríos. Se recomiendan criterios homogéneos para el diagnóstico y tratamiento con el propósito de combatir el incremento de las tasas de resistencia que los microorganismos desarrollan contra los agentes antimicrobianos. Conclusión: La imprecisión en la identificación de la infección hace necesario sensibilizar la búsqueda de acuerdos para homogeneizar criterios y algoritmos de decisión que guíen en el manejo de estos pacientes

Introduction: The clinical manifestations of urinary infections, commonly mild and uncomplicated, have resulted in a generally empirical therapeutic decision-making process, which does not help fight resistances to antibacterial agents, thus causing a high rate of recurrence. Objective: This study seeks to reduce the clinical variability in the diagnosis and treatment of uncomplicated recurrent urinary tract infections (RUTIs). Material and method: The consensus document was developed using a nominal group methodology, using scientific evidence on RUTIs extracted from a systematic (noncomprehensive) literature review, along with the expert judgment of specialists and their experience in clinical practice. Results: RUTIs are considered the manifestation of at least 3 episodes of uncomplicated infection, with a positive culture in the past 12 months, in addition to (for men) the absence of structural or functional abnormalities. We maintain that the treatment should be empiric when suspecting RUTIs (prior to obtaining a urine sample for culture) in those patients who have a high probability of recurrence, associated risk factors and/or urinary or general symptoms, such as fever and chills. Homogeneous criteria are recommended for the diagnosis and treatment in order to fight the increased rates of resistance that the microorganisms develop against antimicrobial agents. Conclusion: Imprecision in the identification of the infection requires a search for agreements on homogenized criteria and decision algorithms that guide the management of these patients

Recommendations for the Diagnosis and Management of Bladder Pain Syndrome. Spanish Urological Association Consensus Document.

INTRODUCTION: Bladder Pain Syndrome/Interstitial Cystitis (BPS/IC) and other bladder pathologies share common manifestations, such as the presence of mictional symptoms and a negative impact on the patient's quality of life. To be properly diagnosed and clinically managed, it is important to distinguish between its clinical modalities and diagnostic criteria for adequate exclusion. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to standardize criteria for making decisions in BPS management, for its diagnosis, initial treatment and follow-up. MATERIAL AND METHOD: A nominal group methodology was employed, using scientific evidence on BPS taken from a systematic (non-exhaustive) literature review for developing recommendations along with specialist expert opinions. RESULTS: The diagnosis of BPS should be made based on the patient's clinical history, with emphasis on pain and mictional symptoms as well as excluding other pathologies with similar symptomatology. BPS treatment should be directed towards restoring normal bladder function, preventing symptom relapse and improving patients' quality of life. It is therefore advisable to start with conservative treatment and to adopt less conservative treatments as the level of clinical severity increases. It is also recommended to abandon ineffective treatments and reconsider other therapeutic options. CONCLUSIONS: Quickly identifying the pathology is important when trying to positively influence morbidity and care quality for these patients.

Consensus document of the Spanish Urological Association on the management of uncomplicated recurrent urinary tract infections.

INTRODUCTION: The clinical manifestations of urinary infections, commonly mild and uncomplicated, have resulted in a generally empirical therapeutic decision-making process, which does not help fight resistances to antibacterial agents, thus causing a high rate of recurrence. OBJECTIVE: This study seeks to reduce the clinical variability in the diagnosis and treatment of uncomplicated recurrent urinary tract infections (RUTIs). MATERIAL AND METHOD: The consensus document was developed using a nominal group methodology, using scientific evidence on RUTIs extracted from a systematic (noncomprehensive) literature review, along with the expert judgment of specialists and their experience in clinical practice. RESULTS: RUTIs are considered the manifestation of at least 3 episodes of uncomplicated infection, with a positive culture in the past 12 months, in addition to (for men) the absence of structural or functional abnormalities. We maintain that the treatment should be empiric when suspecting RUTIs (prior to obtaining a urine sample for culture) in those patients who have a high probability of recurrence, associated risk factors and/or urinary or general symptoms, such as fever and chills. Homogeneous criteria are recommended for the diagnosis and treatment in order to fight the increased rates of resistance that the microorganisms develop against antimicrobial agents. CONCLUSION: Imprecision in the identification of the infection requires a search for agreements on homogenized criteria and decision algorithms that guide the management of these patients.

Nitrergic neuromuscular transmission in the mouse internal anal sphincter is accomplished by multiple pathways and postjunctional effector cells.

The effector cells and second messengers participating in nitrergic neuromuscular transmission (NMT) were investigated in the mouse internal anal sphincter (IAS). Protein expression of guanylate cyclase (GCα, GCß) and cyclic GMP-dependent protein kinase I (cGKI) were examined in cryostat sections with dual-labeling immunohistochemical techniques in PDGFRα(+) cells, interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC), and smooth muscle cells (SMC). Gene expression levels were determined with quantitative PCR of dispersed cells from Pdgfrα(egfp/+), Kit(copGFP/+), and smMHC(Cre-egfp) mice sorted with FACS. The relative gene and protein expression levels of GCα and GCß were PDGFRα(+) cells > ICC ≫ SMC. In contrast, cGKI gene expression sequence was SMC = ICC > PDGFRα(+) cells whereas cGKI protein expression sequence was neurons > SMC ≫ ICC = PDGFRα(+) cells. The functional role of cGKI was investigated in cGKI(-/-) mice. Relaxation with 8-bromo (8-Br)-cGMP was greatly reduced in cGKI(-/-) mice whereas responses to sodium nitroprusside (SNP) were partially reduced and forskolin responses were unchanged. A nitrergic relaxation occurred with nerve stimulation (NS, 5 Hz, 60 s) in cGKI(+/+) and cGKI(-/-) mice although there was a small reduction in the cGKI(-/-) mouse. N(ω)-nitro-l-arginine (l-NNA) abolished responses during the first 20-30 s of NS in both animals. The GC inhibitor ODQ greatly reduced or abolished SNP and nitrergic NS responses in both animals. These data confirm an essential role for GC in NO-induced relaxation in the IAS. However, the expression of GC and cGKI by all three cell types suggests that each may participate in coordinating muscular responses to NO. The persistence of nitrergic NMT in the cGKI(-/-) mouse suggests the presence of a significant GC-dependent, cGKI-independent pathway.

Trasplante renal en el paciente con peso igual o menor a 11 kg / Kidney transplantation in children weighing 11 kg or less

Objetivos. Analizar los resultados de los trasplantes renales en pacientes con peso bajo. Material y métodos. Revisión retrospectiva de los pacientes con peso igual o menor a 11 kg que recibieron un trasplante renal entre el año 2001 y el 2013 en nuestro centro. Resultados. Se realizaron 59 trasplantes renales en pacientes pediátricos, doce en pacientes con peso ≤11 kg (20%). La edad media del receptor en el momento del trasplante fue de 2 años (1-3,5); el peso medio, de 9,4 ± 1,1 kg (8,3-11). La causa de la enfermedad renal fue malformativa en un 42% de los pacientes, hereditaria en el 33%, glomerular en un 8% y por otras causas en un 17%. Dos pacientes no recibieron tratamiento sustitutivo previo al trasplante (16,7%); nueve, diálisis peritoneal (75%) y uno, hemodiálisis (8,3%). Once de los injertos fueron de cadáver (91,7%) y uno, de donante vivo (8,3%). La edad media del donante fue de 10 años (0,5-29). Hubo un caso de trombosis aguda del injerto (8,3%) y un caso de eventración que requirió reintervención, sin otras complicaciones mayores. El seguimiento medio fue de 59 meses (4-130). La supervivencia del paciente fue del 100% a 1 año y del 91,7% a los 5 años. Hubo un exitus, en un paciente con enfermedad mitocondrial con injerto funcionante. La supervivencia del injerto fue del 92% al 1 año y del 75% a los 5 años. Conclusiones. El trasplante renal es el tratamiento de elección para la enfermedad renal terminal en el niño pequeño. Ofrece buenos resultados en cuanto a supervivencia del paciente y del injerto

Results. Fifty-nine kidney transplantations were performed in pediatric patients in our center, 12 of them were performed in patients weighing 11 kg or less (20%). The mean age of the recipient at the time of transplantation was 2 years (1-3.5); the mean weight was 9.4 ± 1.1kg (8.3-11). The etiology of kidney failure was malformative in 42% of patients, inherited in 33%, glomerular in 8% and other etiologies in 17% of the patients. Two patients did not receive replacement therapy before transplantation (16.7%), nine received peritoneal dialysis (75%)and one of them hemodialysis (8.3%). Eleven of the grafts were from cadaveric donor (91.7%) and one of them from a living donor (8.3%). The mean donor age was 10 years (0.5-29). There was one case of acute graft thrombosis (8.3%) and one case of event ration requiring reoperation; there were no other major complications. Mean follow-up was 59 months (4-130). Overall survival (OS) was 100% at 1 year and 91,7% at 5 years. There was one death in a patient with mitochondrial disease with a functioning graft. Graft survival (GS) was 92% at 1 year and 75% at 5 years. Conclusion. Kidney transplantation is the treatment of choice for end-stage kidney failure in the young child. It provides good results in terms of patient and graft survival

[Kidney transplantation in children weighing 11 kg or less]. / Trasplante renal en el paciente con peso igual o menor a 11 kg.

AIMS OF THE STUDY: To evaluate the outcome of kidney transplantation in children with low weight. METHODS: Retrospective review of the medical records of patients weighing 11 kg or less that received kidney transplantation between 2001 and 2013 were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS: Fifty-nine kidney transplantations were performed in pediatric patients in our center, 12 of them were performed in patients weighing 11 kg or less (20%). The mean age of the recipient at the time of transplantation was 2 years (1-3.5); the mean weight was 9.4 ± 1.1 kg (8.3-11). The etiology of kidney failure was malformative in 42% of patients, inherited in 33%, glomerular in 8% and oiler etiologies in 17% of the patients. Two patients did not receive replacement therapy before transplantation (16.7%), nine received peritoneal dialysis (75%) and one of them hemodialysis (8.3%). Eleven of the grafts were from cadaveric donor (91.7%) and one of them from a living donor (8.3%). The mean donor age was 10 years (0.5-29). There was one case of acute graft thrombosis (8.3%) and one case of eventration requiring reoperation; there were no other major complications. Mean follow-up was 59 months (4-130). Overall survival (OS) was 100% at 1 year and 91.7% at 5 years. There was one death in a patient with mitochondrial disease with a functioning graft. Graft survival (GS) was 92% at 1 year and 75% at 5 years. CONCLUSION: Kidney transplantation is the treatment of choice for end-stage kidney failure in the young child. It provides good results in terms of patient and graft survival.

Differential expression of genes related to purinergic signaling in smooth muscle cells, PDGFRα-positive cells, and interstitial cells of Cajal in the murine colon.

BACKGROUND: Purinergic signaling provides regulation of colonic motility. Smooth muscle cells (SMC), interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC), and platelet-derived growth factor receptor α-positive (PDGFRα(+) ) cells are electrically coupled and form a functional (SIP) syncytium that constitutes the receptive field for motor neurotransmitters in the tunica muscularis. Each cell type in the SIP syncytium has specialized functions in mediating motor neurotransmission. We compared gene transcripts for purinergic receptors and membrane-bound enzymes for purine degradation expressed by each cell type of the SIP syncytium. METHODS: Fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) was used to purify SMC, ICC, and PDGFRα(+) cells from mixed cell populations of colonic muscles dispersed from reporter strains of mice with constitutive expression of green fluorescent proteins. Differential expression of functional groups of genes related to purinergic signaling was determined by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). KEY RESULTS: We detected marked phenotypic differences among SMC, ICC, and PDGFRα(+) cells. Substantial numbers of genes of importance in purinergic neurotransmission were enriched in PDGFRα(+) cells in relation to SMC and ICC. Notably, genes related to mediating effects and extracellular biotransformation of enteric purinergic inhibitory neurotransmitters were strongly expressed by PDGFRα(+) cells. CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES: Our results demonstrate differential expression of genes for proteins involved in purinergic signaling in the SIP syncytium. These results may further clarify the specific functions of each cell type, identify novel biomarkers for postjunctional cells, and provide hypotheses for further studies to understand the physiological roles of cells of the SIP syncytium.

Transposition of iliac vessels in implantation of right living donor kidneys.

BACKGROUND: The rate of right laparoscopic living-donor nephrectomy (RLLDN) is low among kidney transplantations due to the short renal vein and presumed higher risk of thrombosis. Our objective was to describe a surgical technique to compensate for the shorter veins of these grafts. METHODS: Between January 2004 and July 2010, we prospectively collected data from all transplantations using RLLDN-harvested kidneys at our center. Recipient iliac vein transposition was performed in all patients. We reviewed the indications, surgical techniques, and postoperative courses. RESULTS: The 43 included cases showed a 2.1 +/- 0.6 cm, average length of the right renal vein as measured on abdominal computed tomography (CT). The mean extraction and implantation times were 109 +/- 33 and 124 +/- 31 minutes, respectively; the mean warm ischemia time was 151 +/- 29 seconds. Two recipients required postsurgical blood transfusions. In 97.6% of cases, there was immediate urine flow. Postoperative echo-Doppler revealed good arterial and venous flows in all patients. No venous thromboses were detected. The recipients' average hospital stay was 8 +/- 5 days. With a mean follow-up of 57 months, 86% of recipients maintain a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) >50 mL/min and creatinine levels <1.5 mg/dL. CONCLUSIONS: Transposition of the recipient iliac vein during implantation is a good technical solution to compensate for the short length of the right renal vein. The use of iliac vein transposition allowed us to perform safe implants of RLLDN-harvested kidneys with good short-term and long-term results.

Progressive loss of cortical gray matter in schizophrenia: a meta-analysis and meta-regression of longitudinal MRI studies.

Cortical gray matter deficits have been found in patients with schizophrenia, with evidence of progression over time. The aim of this study was to determine the extent of progressive cortical gray matter volume changes over time in schizophrenia, their site and time of occurrence, and the role of potential moderators of brain changes. English language articles published between 1 January 1983 and 31 March 2012 in the MEDLINE and EMBASE databases were searched. Longitudinal magnetic resonance imaging studies comparing changes in cortical gray matter volume over time between patients with schizophrenia and healthy controls were included. Hedges g was calculated for each study. Analyses were performed using fixed- and random-effects models. A subgroup analysis was run to explore the pattern of brain changes in patients with first-episode schizophrenia. A meta-regression statistic was adopted to investigate the role of potential moderators of the effect sizes (ESs). A total of 19 studies, analyzing 813 patients with schizophrenia and 718 healthy controls, were included. Over time, patients with schizophrenia showed a significantly higher volume loss of total cortical gray matter, left superior temporal gyrus (STG), left anterior STG, left Heschl gyrus, left planum temporale and posterior STG bilaterally. Meta-analysis of first-episode schizophrenic patients showed a more significant pattern of progressive loss of whole cerebral gray matter volume involving the frontal, temporal and parietal lobes, and left Heschl gyrus compared with healthy controls. Clinical, pharmacologic and neuroradiological variables were found to be significant moderators of brain volume changes in patients with schizophrenia. The meta-analysis demonstrates that progressive cortical gray matter changes in schizophrenia occur with regional and temporal specificity. The underlying pathological process appears to be especially active in the first stages of the disease, affects the left hemisphere and the superior temporal structures more and is at least partly moderated by the type of pharmacological treatment received.

The DRG shift: a new twist for ICD-10 preparation.

Analysis of your specific business is a key component of ICD-10 implementation. An understanding of your organization's current reimbursement trends will go a long way to assessing and preparing for the impact of ICD-10 in your environment. If you cannot be prepared for each detailed scenario, remember that much of the analysis and resolution requires familiar coding, DRG analysis, and claims processing best practices. Now, they simply have the new twist of researching new codes and some new concepts. The news of a delay in the implementation compliance date, along with the release of grouper Version 29, should encourage your educational and business analysis efforts. This is a great opportunity to maintain open communication with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Department of Health and Human Services, and Centers for Disease Control. This is also a key time to report any unusual or discrepant findings in order to provide input to the final rule.

Hypertension, dyslipidemia and overweight are related to lower testosterone levels in a cohort of men undergoing prostate biopsy.

Testosterone deficiency syndrome (TDS) is a clinical and biochemical entity related to sexual and cardiovascular health. Hypertension, diabetes mellitus (DM), dyslipidemia and overweight are four clinical factors strongly related to cardiovascular illnesses. The aim of our study was to determine if the presence and number of cardiovascular risk factors was related to total testosterone levels and the presence of biochemical TDS. We retrospectively analyzed 384 patients referred to our center for prostate biopsy between September 2007 and December 2009. Variables age, height, weight, body mass index (BMI), tobacco use, alcohol intake, hypertension, DM, dyslipidemia (hypercholesterolemia/hypertriglyceridemia) and overweight (BMI>25) were recorded prospectively. Hormonal profile was determined as part of our clinical protocol. We used 231 and 346 ng dl(-1) as total testosterone cut-points (8-12 nmol l(-1)) for diagnosis of biochemical TDS, following ISA-ISSAM-EAU Guidelines. We analyzed the relationship between testosterone levels and the presence of hypertension, DM, dyslipidemia and overweight, and with the number of these cardiovascular risk factors. Mean age was 66 ± 8 years. Prevalence of TDS was 6.5% within the 231 ng ml(-1) cutoff point and 28.4% for the 346 ng dl(-1) cutoff point. Levels of testosterone were related to hypertension (P=0.007), dyslipidemia (P=0.013), overweight (P=0.036) and the number of cardiovascular risk factors (P=0.018). The prevalence of TDS in our population is comparable to data from international studies. Testosterone levels decrease as the number of cardiovascular risk factors rise.

Experiencia pionera en España con nefrectomía LESS de donante vivo / Pioneer Experience in Spain with LSSS Nephrectomy in Living Donor

Introducción: La cirugía LESS (Laparoendoscopic single site surgery) es una técnica quirúrgica que pretende realizar la cirugía intraabdominal mediante un único puerto de entrada, permitiendo una reducción del número y tamaño de las incisiones, consiguiendo mejores resultados estéticos con, al menos, los mismos resultados funcionales que la cirugía laparoscópica convencional. Material y métodos: Presentamos la primera experiencia de nefrectomía LESS de donante vivo realizada por un equipo íntegramente europeo. Para su realización se colocó un dispositivo Quadport® a través de una incisión paraumbilical de 4 centímetros de longitud. Resultados: La nefrectomía se realizó siguiendo los estándares de la cirugía laparoscópica convencional, con el uso de un instrumento precurvado en la mano izquierda e instrumentos rectos en la derecha. Tras el embolsado del riñón se seccionaron la arteria y la vena previo clipaje, permitiendo una extracción rápida del órgano a través de la misma incisión, con una isquemia caliente de 3,30” y 2,47” respectivamente. Conclusión: La nefrectomía de donante vivo mediante la técnica LESS es factible, y puede ser considerada una buena opción para la obtención de injertos renales de vivo en varones. La aplicación de dicha técnica quirúrgica en la donación renal de vivo puede incrementar la tasa de donación, al reducir la morbilidad y mejorar los resultados estéticos, con los mismos resultados tanto para el donante como para el receptor (AU)

Introduction: LESS surgery (Laparoendoscopic single site surgery) is a surgical technique that aims to perform intraabdominal surgery using a single site entry, allowing for reduction in the number and size of the incisions, achieving better esthetic results with at least the same functional outcomes as with the conventional laparoscopic surgery. Material and methods: We present the first experience of LESS living donor nephrectomy carried out by a totally European team. To perform it, a Quadport® device was placed through a 4cm long paraumbilical incision. Results: The nephrectomy was performed using the standards of conventional laparoscopic surgery, with the use of a precurved instrument in the left hand and straight instruments in the right. After bagging the kidney, the artery and vein were sectioned after clipping, allowing for rapid extraction of the organ through the same incision, with warm ischemia of 3.30” and 2.47,” respectively. Conclusion: Living donor nephrectomy using the LESS technique is feasible and can be considered a good option for obtaining live donor kidney grafts in males. The application of said surgical in living kidney donor can increase the rate of donation, by reducing morbidity and improving the esthetic results with the same outcome for the donor as for the recipient (AU)

Identification of histamine receptors and effects of histamine on murine and simian colonic excitability.

BACKGROUND: Inflammatory responses can include recruitment of cells of hematopoietic origin to the tunica muscularis. These cells can secrete a variety of factors which can reset the gain of smooth muscle cells (SMC) and influence motor patterns. Histamine (H), a major mediator in inflammation, is released by mast cells and exerts diverse effects in SMC by binding to H receptors. The profiles of H receptor expression in animal models used to study inflammatory diseases are unknown. METHODS: Histamine receptor expression and electro-mechanical responses to H were tested in simian and murine colonic smooth muscle using qualitative and quantitative PCR, isometric force measurements, microelectrode recordings and patch clamp techniques. KEY RESULTS: H1, H2, and H4 receptor transcripts were expressed at similar levels in simian colonic tissue whereas only the H2 receptor transcript was detected in murine colonic tissue. Stimulation of simian colonic muscles with H caused depolarization and contraction in the presence of tetrodotoxin. Histamine activated non-selective cation channels in simian SMC. In contrast, H caused hyperpolarization and inhibited contractions of murine colon. The hyperpolarization was inhibited by the K(ATP) channel blocker, glibenclamide. Histamine-activated K(+) currents were inhibited by glibenclamide in murine colonic SMC. CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES: Histamine receptor expression in simian SMC was similar to that reported in humans. However, H receptor profile and responses to H were considerably different in mice. Thus, monkey colon may be a more suitable model to study how inflammatory mediators affect the gain of smooth muscle excitability.