Effects of ovarian fluid and genetic differences on sperm performance and fertilization success of alternative reproductive tactics in Chinook salmon

In many species, sperm velocity affects variation in the outcome of male competitive fertilization success. In fishes, ovarian fluid (OF) released with the eggs can increase male sperm velocity and potentially facilitate cryptic female choice for males of specific phenotypes and/or genotypes. Therefore, to investigate the effect of OF on fertilization success, we measured sperm velocity and conducted in vitro competitive fertilizations with paired Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) males representing two alternative reproductive tactics, jacks (small sneaker males) and hooknoses (large guarding males), in the presence of river water alone and OF mixed with river water. To determine the effect of genetic differences on fertilization success, we genotyped fish at neutral (microsatellites) and functional [major histocompatibility complex (MHC) II ß1] markers. We found that when sperm were competed in river water, jacks sired significantly more offspring than hooknoses; however, in OF, there was no difference in paternity between the tactics. Sperm velocity was significantly correlated with paternity success in river water, but not in ovarian fluid. Paternity success in OF, but not in river water alone, was correlated with genetic relatedness between male and female, where males that were less related to the female attained greater paternity. We found no relationship between MHC II ß1 divergence between mates and paternity success in water or OF. Our results indicate that OF can influence the outcome of sperm competition in Chinook salmon, where OF provides both male tactics with fertilization opportunities, which may in part explain what maintains both tactics in nature.

Urine chemokine levels correlate with treatment response to phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor in prostatitis

AIM

To investigate the association of urinary chemokines with the treatment response in chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) patients.

METHODS

Between 2007-2011, 18 out of 21 male CP/CPPS patients met the exclusion/inclusion criteria of the 16 wk longitudinal study on twice daily oral treatment with Phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor called Apremilast for 12 wk. Symptom scores and urine specimen were collected at baseline and every visit at 4 wk interval from CP/CPPS patients who completed at least 8 wk of drug treatment. Urine collected at each visit was frozen and then analyzed together after thawing for chemokines and growth factors using MILLIPLEX™ MAP immunoassay. Cross sectional association of Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (CPSI) and visual analog scale (VAS) with chemokine levels in urine collected at baseline was assessed in 18 CP/CPPS patients relative to 10 asymptomatic male subjects. Longitudinal association between urine chemokine levels and symptom scores was assessed in 8 treatment-adherent CP/CPPS patients at baseline and at 4, 8, 12 and 16 wk.

RESULTS

Urine chemokines levels of CXCL-1 (GRO-a), CXCL-8 (IL-8), CXCL-10 (IP-10) and CCL5 (RANTES) in CP/CPPS patients at baseline were significantly elevated relative to asymptomatic subjects, whereas levels of sIL-1RA in CP/CPPS were significantly lower compared to controls (P < 0.05). Quantitatively, urine levels of CXCL-10 were higher than other chemokines in CP/CPPS, but its 5 fold change relative to controls was lower than the 20 fold change noted for CXCL-8. The mean age of enrolled patients who completed at least 8 wk of treatment (n = 8) was 46.5 ± 9.4 years and analysis found that elevation of CXCL-8 and CCL5 increased the odds for higher score of CPSI by 54% and 25%, respectively (F test, P = 0.00007). Urine levels of CCL2 (MCP-1) and CXCL-10 together explained approximately 85% of variance in longitudinal data on multivariate analysis. Bivariate analysis of 5 patients who fully complied and completed the assigned dose regimen, showed strong linear correlation of reduced urine levels of CXCL-10, CXCL-8, CCL5, CCL2 and PDGF with improvement in clinical activity as measured by pain VAS and CPSI (Pearson r = 0.83-0.97; P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Urine levels of CXCL-10, CCL2 and PDGF can be sensitive, objective and non-invasive markers of response to new therapeutic intervention in CP/CPPS patients.

The impact of prior back surgery on neuromodulation outcomes: A review of over 500 patients

AIMS

To evaluate neuromodulation outcomes in patients with prior back surgery.

METHODS

Adults in our prospective observational sacral/pudendal neuromodulation study were retrospectively evaluated. History and operative details were reviewed, and outcomes were measured at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months with overactive bladder questionnaire (OAB q) symptom severity (SS)/health related quality of life (HRQOL), interstitial cystitis symptom/problem indices (ICSI - PI), voiding diaries, and global response assessments (GRA). Data were examined with Pearson's χ² , Fisher's exact, Wilcoxon rank sum tests, and logistic regression multivariate analysis.

RESULTS

Five hundred and sixty patients were evaluated (mean age 58.8 ± 17 years; 83% female; 79% had a sacral lead placed), 109 (19%) had history of back surgery; 66 surgeries were lumbar. Back surgery patients were older (mean 63 ± 15 vs. 58 ± 17 years; P = 0.003) and a higher proportion had urge urinary incontinence (UUI) (64% vs. 50% P = 0.008). Generator implant rates were similar (94% vs. 91%; P = 0.34). OABq-SS and HRQOL and ICSI - PI composite scores did not differ between groups at any time point. On bladder diaries, median incontinence episodes daily at baseline and between stages were worse in the prior back surgery group but all bladder diary parameters improved significantly in both groups with the exception of mean voided volume which only improved significantly in the non-back surgery group. Most patients in both groups reported moderate/marked improvement in overall bladder symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that prior back surgery does not appear to impact clinical outcomes; therefore, neuromodulation may be offered in this patient population.

Outcomes of Sacral Neuromodulation in Patients with Prior Surgical Treatment of Stress Urinary Incontinence and Pelvic Organ Prolapse

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of sacral neuromodulation in patients with prior stress urinary incontinence (SUI) or pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery.

METHODS

Women in our prospective neuromodulation database were evaluated. Patients with a history of prior SUI/POP surgery were compared to those without. Medical records at baseline were reviewed, and primary outcome was defined as moderate/marked improvement on Global Response Assessment (GRA) at 3 months. Secondary outcomes were measured using bladder diaries and Overactive Bladder Symptom Severity (OABq-SS)/health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Data were analyzed with Pearson χ test, Fisher exact test, Wilcoxon rank-sum test, and repeated-measures analyses.

RESULTS

Of 210 subjects, 108 (51%) had prior SUI/POP surgery. Patients with SUI/POP surgery had more prior hysterectomies. At 3 months, there was no difference between groups on GRA outcomes. On the bladder diary, both groups had improvement in median voids per 24 hours, urgency severity, and urge incontinence over 2 years. On the GRA, fewer patients in the SUI/POP group were treatment responders at 12 and 24 months. For urinary urgency, a few in this group were moderately/markedly improved at 6 months, and a higher proportion are reported still leaking urine at 6 and 12 months. Similar proportions in each group reported moderate/marked improvement in leaking. Satisfaction was similar between groups. The OABq-SS/HRQOL scores improved, and there was no difference between the groups.

CONCLUSION

Sacral neuromodulation improves bladder symptoms in women with prior SUI/POP surgery, but response may be slightly less in those with prior surgery due to underlying bladder or pelvic floor issues.

Does a history of bullying and abuse predict lower urinary tract symptoms, chronic pain, and sexual dysfunction?

PURPOSE

To investigate associations of bullying and abuse with pelvic floor symptoms, urogenital pain, and sexual health characteristics of women presenting to a multidisciplinary women's urology center.

METHODS

Retrospective review of a prospective database. Patients completed questions about bullying, abuse, sexual health and validated questionnaires including the Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Inventory (PFDI-20), Overactive Bladder Questionnaire (OAB-q), and visual analog scale (VAS 0-10) for genitourinary pain. Statistical analyses included Chi-squared and t tests, which compared victims of bullying and/or abuse to non-victims.

RESULTS

Three hundred and eighty patients were reviewed. Three hundred and thirty-eight had data on bullying and abuse history. Out of 380, 94 (24.7 %) reported that they were victims of bullying. Out of 380, 104 (27.4 %) reported that they were victims of abuse. Women with a history of bullying and abuse had increased overall pain scores compared to those without a history of either. Women with a history of abuse and bullying had increased PFDI-20, POPDI, and UDI-6 scores compared to women who were not bullied or abused. There was no difference in being sexually active or in sexual satisfaction between the groups. Patients with a history of abuse and bullying had the greatest percentage of dyspareunia (p = 0.009).

CONCLUSIONS

Women with a history of bullying, abuse, or both predict increased pelvic floor distress, urological symptoms, increased urogenital pain, and increased dyspareunia. Clinicians should screen for exposure to bullying or abuse in order to provide comprehensive resources to address these psychosocial issues.

Novel Use of Pudendal Neuromodulation in a Pediatric Patient With Caudal Regression and Partial Sacral Agenesis for Refractory Bowel Bladder Dysfunction

Sacral neuromodulation (SNM) has been used off-label in the United States for over a decade in the pediatric population. Many published studies have demonstrated efficacy with SNM in this population; however, a significant number of children with refractory bowel bladder dysfunction (BBD) also have underlying comorbidities. Children with certain spinal abnormalities pose a problem for the urologist treating BBD. Patients with caudal regression can have various sacral anomalies, making SNM challenging or impossible. We present the first case in the United States of pudendal neuromodulation in a pediatric BBD patient with caudal regression.

S3-Guideline non-traumatic adult femoral head necrosis

INTRODUCTION

The treatment of adult non-traumatic avascular necrosis of the femoral head (AVN; N-ANFH) within an estimated incidence of 5000-7000 cases per annum in Germany remains a challenge. Risk factors include steroids, alcohol abuse, chemotherapy and immunosuppressive medication, but a genetic predisposition has been suggested. Early diagnosis of this often bilateral disease process is essential for successful conservative or joint preserving surgical management. In this review, we present the update German consensus S3 guideline "diagnosis and management for N-ANFH" as a concise summary.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This systematic review is based on the published literature from January 1, 1970 to April 31, 2013 (German and English language). Inclusion criteria were systematic reviews, meta-analyses and relevant peer review publications. We identified a total of 3715 related publications, of which 422 were suitable according to the SIGN criteria, but only 159 fulfilled our inclusion criteria.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Clinical suspicion of N-ANFH mandates radiographic evaluation. If radiographs are normal MRI scans are recommended, which should be evaluated according to the ARCO-classification. Differential diagnoses include transient osteoporosis, bone bruise, insufficiency fracture and destructive arthropathy. Untreated, subchondral fractures commonly occur within 2 years, during which the risk for contralateral involvement is high-thereafter unlikely. Conservative management with Ilomedin and Alendronat can be tried, but other pharmacological or physical treatments are inappropriate. No specific joint preserving procedure can be recommended, but core decompression should be considered in early stages if necrosis is <30 %. In ARCO stages IIIc or IV total hip arthroplasty (THA) should be contemplated, which offers similar outcome compared to osteoarthritis. Young age is the main risk factor for higher revision rates after THA for N-ANFH.

A multidisciplinary approach to the evaluation and management of interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome: an ideal model of care

Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) is a complex syndrome that has long been treated with bladder directed therapies, which often fail to address the multiple underlying etiologies that can contribute to this disease process. This disease often involves symptoms that extend beyond the bladder and involve the pelvic floor making it crucial for clinicians to approach the patient using a multidisciplinary team. This article will discuss the underlying etiologies for IC/BPS and describe the multidisciplinary approach which we have found to be extremely successful in managing this patient population.

Predictors of reoperation after sacral neuromodulation: A single institution evaluation of over 400 patients

AIMS

To explore factors that may predispose patients to reoperation after sacral neuromodulation (SNM).

METHODS

Patients enrolled in our longitudinal neuromodulation database were reviewed. Medical records data, and voiding diaries, Interstitial Cystitis Symptom-Problem Indices (ICSI-PI), and Overactive Bladder Questionnaires (OAB-q) at baseline and 3 months were analyzed with Pearson's χ² , Fisher's Exact test, Wilcoxon rank tests, and multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

Of 407 patients, 134 (33%) had at least one reoperation over median 28.9 months follow-up (range 1.6-121.7); 78/407 (19%) were revised, and 56/407 (14%) were explanted. The most common reason for reoperation was lack of efficacy/worsening symptoms (n = 87). The reoperations group had a higher proportion of women (P = 0.049), lower mean body mass index (BMI; P = 0.010), more reprogramming events (P < 0.0001), longer median follow-up (P = 0.0008), and higher proportions with interstitial cystitis (P = 0.013), using hormone replacement therapy (P = 0.0004), and complications (P < 0.0001). Both reoperations/no reoperations groups had similar improvements in ICSI-PI (P < 0.0001 for both), OAB-q severity (P < 0.0001 for both) and quality of life (P < 0.0001 for both). On multivariate analysis, only longer follow-up (P = 0.0011; OR 1.048; CI 1.019, 1.078) and having a complication (P < 0.0001; OR 23.2; CI 11.47, 46.75) were significant predictors of reoperations. In women only, using HRT at time of implant was also predictive of reoperation (P = 0.0027; OR 3.09; CI 1.48, 6.46).

CONCLUSIONS

In this largest known series to date, one third of the patients required reoperation and the most common reason was lack of efficacy/worsening symptoms. Ongoing study is needed as the technology continues to evolve. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:354-359, 2017. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Evaluating the Siebens Model in Geriatric-Stroke Inpatient Rehabilitation to Reduce Institutionalization and Acute-Care Readmissions

BACKGROUND

The objective of the study is to evaluate the use of Siebens Domain Management Model (SDMM) in geriatric-stroke patients during inpatient rehabilitation (IR) to increase functional independence, and to reduce institutionalization and acute-care readmissions, which are quality indicators under the U.S. Affordable Care Act.

METHODS

In 2010 (preintervention), 66 stroke patients aged more than 75 years were admitted to an IR facility, on average, 8.8 days postacute care. In 2012 (postintervention), 58 patients aged more than 75 years were admitted to the same IR facility, on average, 5.0 days postacute care. SDMM intervention involved weekly adjustments of clinical care focused on potential barriers to discharge home. Functional Independence Measure (FIM) efficiency, length of stay (LOS), and disposition rates to community or home, acute care, and long-term care were compared pre- and postintervention within facility, and facility data were compared to national case-mix-group-adjusted data from the Uniform Data System for Medical Rehabilitation for both years (2010/2012).

RESULTS

Pre- and postintervention demographics and prestroke living support/setting were similar, but preintervention had on average 4 more days LOS in IR and 3.8 more days to IR onset. There were significantly more discharges to community in postintervention (79.3%) compared to preintervention (56.9%) (chi-square = 6.02, P < .013). The preintervention group did not significantly differ from 2010 national data whereas the postintervention/2012 group significantly differed from 2012 national data for higher FIM efficiency (t = -3.1, P < .002) and more discharges to community (chi-square = 19.7; P < .0001). From 2010 to 2012, there were 3.8 times more discharges to community (chi-square = 8535; P < .0001) and 6 times fewer acute-care dispositions postintervention than nationally (chi-square = 58.7; P < .0001).

[Use of osteoanabolics in fracture nonunion]

BACKGROUND

The treatment of fracture nonunion (pseudarthrosis) is often lengthy and debilitating for the patient. There are operative and conservative therapies available.

RESEARCH QUESTION

Does the systemic use of osteoanabolic acting substances (osteoanabolics) lead to an acceleration of the delayed fracture healing and/or strengthening of the fracture? Which types of pseudarthrosis are suitable for this treatment option?

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A literature review was carried out focusing on the systemic anabolic therapy options for the treatment of delayed healing of fractures or pseudarthrosis. Additionally, our own case studies are presented.

RESULTS

Teriparatide and strontium ranelate have a positive effect on the healing of fractures in animal studies and in humans. There are also case studies on the use of both substances in delayed fracture healing or pseudarthrosis. The scientific knowledge regarding teriparatide is significantly more comprehensive. However, prospective randomized trials are lacking so far.

CONCLUSION

The systemic use of anabolics can be a therapeutic option, especially for biological reactive pseudarthrosis. However, these are off-label treatments and contraindications should be especially well heeded. Because of the numerous positive results, from the point of view of teriparatide treatment, a multicentric, prospective randomized study on the treatment of aseptic pseudarthrosis should be initiated.

[Score-controlled duration of follow-up treatment after alloplastic hip and knee replacement]

BACKGROUND

In the literature many studies can be found addressing the effectiveness of individual measures and therapies within the medical rehabilitation. The duration of the rehabilitation itself is rarely taken into account. Consequently the duration of postoperative inpatient medical rehabilitation after initial implantation of alloarthroplastic hip and knee replacements in osteoarthritis of the hip or knee was the object of our analysis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In the present prospective study 100 patients each with osteoarthritis of the hip or knee were presented at a follow-up treatment postoperatively after primary implantation of alloarthroplastic hip and knee replacements. Two different scores were used (Staffelstein score, Lequesne score), which were collected at a weekly follow-up (T1-T4) to determine the degree of mobility in the initial examination of the patient and after three weeks. By setting a target score at admission of the patient to the CSO, which stood for achieving the rehabilitation objective, the rehabilitation period could be changed individually.

RESULTS

Our study showed that the highest rehabilitation progress has been achieved in both the total hip replacement and total knee replacement in patients at the end of the second week of rehabilitation (T2-T3). Thus, in the Staffelstein score 74 % (n = 74) of hip replacement patients and 46 % (n = 46) of knee replacement patients had already reached their rehabilitation aim between T2 and T3. From the third week on there was a marked flattening of the rehabilitation progress. Also the Lequesne scores obtained confirmed these results.

CONCLUSION

Based on the score-driven detection of mobility degree of rehabilitation at the beginning of the follow-up treatment, the individual design of the rehabilitation process with the active participation of the patient is possible. In a large number of cases a reduction of the rehabilitation period can be achieved to less than 21 days. This finding is particularly important in times of limited financial resources, because the saved resources can be used for other rehabilitation groups. Therefore, in a greater number of patients, a shortening of the duration of the rehabilitation is possible.

Autologous muscle derived cells for treatment of stress urinary incontinence in women

PURPOSE

We assess the 12-month safety and potential efficacy of autologous muscle derived cells for urinary sphincter repair (Cook MyoSite Incorporated, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) in women with stress urinary incontinence.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Pooled data from 2 phase I/II studies with identical patient selection criteria and outcome measures were analyzed. Enrolled patients had stress urinary incontinence refractory to prior treatment and no symptom improvement during the last 6 months. Patients received intrasphincter injection of 10 (16), 50 (16), 100 (24) or 200×10(6) (24) autologous muscle derived cells for urinary sphincter repair, derived from biopsies of each patient's quadriceps femoris. The primary outcome measure was safety, determined by incidence and severity of adverse events. Potential efficacy was measured by changes in 3-day voiding diaries, 24-hour pad tests, and UDI-6 and IIQ-7 scores.

RESULTS

A total of 80 patients underwent injection of autologous muscle derived cells for urinary sphincter repair, and 72 completed diaries and pad tests at 12-month followup. No adverse events attributed to autologous muscle derived cells for urinary sphincter repair were reported. Higher dose groups tended to have greater percentages of patients with at least a 50% reduction in stress leaks and pad weight at 12-month followup. All dose groups had statistically significant improvement in UDI-6 and IIQ-7 scores at 12-month followup compared to baseline.

CONCLUSIONS

Autologous muscle derived cells for urinary sphincter repair at doses of 10, 50, 100 and 200×10(6) cells appears safe. Efficacy data suggest a potential dose response with a greater percentage of patients responsive to higher doses.