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Nima Pourhabibi Zarandi,1,* Guillermo Galdon,1,* Stanley Kogan,1,2 Anthony Atala,1,2 Hooman Sadri-Ardekani1,2 1Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA; 2Department of Urology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA *These authors contributed equally to this work Abstract: While the survival rate of children with cancer is increasing, preserving fertility for prepubertal boys is still a challenge. Although intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) using frozen sperms has revolutionized infertility treatment, it is not applicable for the patients who undergo chemotherapy before puberty since spermatogenesis has not begun. Therefore, preserving spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) as an experimental option can be provided to prepubertal patients at a risk of damage or loss of their SSCs due to cancer treatments and developmental or genetic disorders. Using frozen SSCs in testicular tissue, successful SSC autotransplantation in mouse and nonhuman primates has shown a promising future for SSC-based cell therapy. Cryopreservation of testicular tissue containing SSCs is the first step to translate SSC-based cell therapy into clinical male infertility treatment, and in the investigation into SSCs, it is very important to evaluate their quantity and functionality during this process. This systematic review summarizes the published data on cryopreservation techniques in human testis tissue for potential utilization in future clinical applications. Keywords: testis, spermatogonial stem cell, tissue banking, cryopreservation, male infertility, transplantation

The process of dissolution allegedly occurring in the humanities in US educational institutions, one example being the degradation of composition, is attributed to postmodernism.

Promoting action of elements of Cu, Zn, Ga, Ge, Bi, S subgroups and of Re on platinum catalysts in paraffins dehydrogenation is considered. The mechanism of influence on activity, selectivity and stability (coke tolerance effect) is discussed. It was demonstrated the prevailing role of geometric (ensemble) factor. 112 ref. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study that determines the effect of radiation to TEL-AML1 cells. It explores the method of the study that observes human TEL-AML1 cells encoding complementary DNA and internal ribosomal entry site in mice. It notes the result of the study, which shows that some mice received cells for low-dose radiation, has caused TEL-AML1 to mutate and induce leukemia.

We present an ethnographic study in which we examine the ways collaborative knowledge work gets done in a process-oriented environment. The purpose of the study is to identify the kinds of support that knowledge workers could benefit from and to make recommendations for tools that might provide such support. The participants in this study, knowledge workers in various business domains, work in a collaborative environment; their skills are in their areas of expertise rather than computer science and programming. The data we collected are based on field interviews, on observation sessions, and on validation sessions using prototypes. We analyzed the field data using selected principles from grounded theory, and the results of each cycle were used to guide the research in subsequent cycles. In our findings we describe how knowledge workers develop their own strategies and techniques for getting their work done in complex, dynamic environments in which prescribed work processes serve only as reference models. By presenting instances of such environments from our study data, we illustrate how such individualized work processes are created and demonstrate the need for new supporting technologies and tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare the psychosocial adaptation of boys with hypospadias after genital surgery to a community sample.Methods: Boys (6 to 10 years) with a history of hypospadias repair (n = 175) were compared with a community sample (n = 333) in a postal questionnaire survey using the Child Behavior Checklist.Results: Few significant differences between cases and controls emerged. Boys with hypospadias were (slightly) lower in social involvement but did not perform more poorly in school. Boys with hypospadias displayed fewer externalizing behavior problems than controls, but a significant difference in nocturnal enuresis was not detected. Level of behavior problems did not differentiate hypospadias severity subgroups, but greater surgical and hospitalization experiences were associated with increased internalizing problems. Poorer cosmetic appearance of the genitals was associated with worse school performance.Conclusions: Surgically corrected hypospadias should not be considered a risk factor for poor psychosocial adaptation in childhood, but emotional problems increase with the number of hospital-related experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comments on several articles related to physics as of 1980. Discussion of the problem involving the cutting off of scientific exchange between U.S. and the Soviet Union following the exile of Soviet physicist Andrei Sakharov; Argument against a trend in articles on particle physics involving the truncation of the list of references; Criticism of the article by Carl Sagan, 'Analysis of Worlds in Collision.'

- Moderate and even severe dilatation of the urinary tract in the absence of vesicoureteric reflux may remain stable or show spontaneous resolution. Two such cases are described. Twenty-five children with dilated urinary systems were studied to correlate the radiological, isotope, pressure perfusion and surgical findings. A positive Whitaker test correlated well with the surgical findings and post-operative improvement in renal function in all patients with pelviureteric junction (PUJ) and vesicoureteric junction (VUJ) obstruction. High flow rates of 8.6 and 12 ml are required even in neonates and infants in order to demonstrate obstruction by Whitaker testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ambiguous genital structures of Male Pseudo-hermaphrodites may be reconstructed either in a masculinizing or feminizing manner. This decision is made attempting to maximize body image and function. Early assignment of an appropriate sex of rearing is important. Feminizing genitoplasty for Male Pseudo-hermaphroditism may be done at any age, once accurate diagnosis of the underlying condition is reached. Clitoroplasty, labioplasty, and exteriorization vaginoplasty may be done simultaneously in selected cases where an adequate vagina is already present, with excellent functional and cosmetic results anticipated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and context: More than 4000 cases of pediatric cancer are registered in the Russian Federation annually. A well-functioning system of the centers and departments of pediatric, hematology and oncology required to obtain good treatment results. Features of the Russian Federation require close collaboration between Dmitry Rogachev Center, NSPHO and regional medical institutions. Aim: Development and implementation of the system of direct collaboration between Dmitry Rogachev Center, NSPHO and regional medical institutions for improvement of diagnostics, treatment and rehabilitation of children with hematologic and oncological diseases on the all territory of the Russian Federation. Strategy/Tactics: Dmitry Rogachev Center was set by the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation as the National Center in charge of pediatric hematology and oncology. Thus, the collaborative initiatives between Dmitry Roigachev Center, NSPHO and regional medical institution were prioritized. Key points of the regional strategy are 24/7 telemedicine support for regional institutions, forming of database of centers and specialists based on NSPHO catalogue of institutions, usage of unique clinical guidelines and standards for all regions of Russia based on tandem agreements and continuous medical education and scientific work. Program/Policy process: To obtain above-mentioned goals, the following steps were made. Federal Center of Telecommunication for Children with hematologic and oncological diseases was founded. A special Web-based application was constructed for the forming of the database of the institutions (the base of this work is the 9 years experience of NSPHO in accumulating of data on centers and specialists on the Russian territory). More than 50 guidelines were prepared and approved for hematologic and oncological diseases treatment in children. Tandem agreements are signing now between Dmitry Rogachev Center, NSPHO and regional medical institutions. Different educational activities are available for specialists from all Russian regions (e.g., on-site seminars, online meetings, etc.). Outcomes: Regional network consists of 86 institutions in all Russian regions (about 3900 beds). During the test period of work of FCT in 2017 more than 5000 consultations were made. Estimated number for 2018 is 6000. All these institutions and specialists (1050) are included to the monthly updated database including the contact and other information. Approved guidelines updating periodically based on the results of multicenter studies. Nowadays more than 50 institutions signed the tandem agreements. These steps allowed to control all pediatric cancer cases in country. What was learned: Only scientific-based multicentre collaboration under the leadership of the National Center and strong national society with support of the government could lead to control of cancer cases and success in treatment. This experience could be used in other countries [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and context: More than 4000 cases of pediatric cancer registered in Russia annually. Overall survival for pediatric cancer is about 80% and improved from 10% during last 25 years. Dmitry Rogachev National Medical Research Center of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology (Center) and the National Society of Pediatric Hematologists and Oncologists (NSPHO) played a major role in this movement. Aim: Build new childhood cancer control plan based on close collaboration of 86 centers and departments of pediatric oncology. Strategy/Tactics: Plan is based on close collaboration between leading Center and NSPHO (representative of all centers) and supported by the government and the Ministry of Health. Plan developed as the result of analysis of strengths, weaknesses, threats and possible opportunities. Strengths: unique standards (guidelines and protocols) for pediatric cancer for all country with the financial governmental support, strong society (NSPHO), availability of modern technologies and rapid improvement of rehabilitation for children with cancer. Weaknesses: absence of national pediatric cancer registry, lack of high quality oncology nursing, comparable low publication activity. Opportunities: building of the national pediatric cancer registry, increasing of number of multicenter studies, implementation of the new technologies (cellular and gene therapy) and active educational activities based on international collaboration. Program/Policy process: Dmitry Rogachev Center in charge of pediatric hematology, oncology and immunology for Russia and NSPHO is key society. Strategy: scientific analysis and continuous improving of standards (guidelines and protocols) based on multicenter studies; building the morphologically-based national pediatric hematology/oncology registry; continuous development of professional standards for education and quality control; capacity building; scientific and educational activities (national meetings, schools for healthcare professionals, regional educational programs, Russian CME accreditation, outreach programs). Outcomes: Sixty guidelines were prepared, this work is continuing. Morphologic study for more than 13,000 children was made in Dmitry Rogachev Center (all suspicious cases controlled). New standards prepared and discussed. National telemedicine network formed (consulting, case registration, database updates, etc.). More than 5000 cases were consulted through this system in 2017. CME educational seminars (on/off-line) organized. About 12 regions of Russia visited annually with preparation of the report with proposals for improvement of regional service for children with cancer. What was learned: Success is based on close collaboration between Center, Society and Government (all aspects of pediatric cancer control from diagnostics to education covered). This experience could be implemented in the countries with post-Soviet model of healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and context: Continuous medical education (CME) is very important in improvement of knowledge in all field of pediatrics. CME in pediatric oncology could be aimed both for oncologists and pediatricians. Aim: We aimed to organize CME system in the field of pediatric oncology for oncologists and pediatricians. Strategy/Tactics: Continuous education for improvement of knowledge for all pediatric oncologists and pediatricians based on Russian CME system. This system was organized by the Ministry of Health and National Medical Chamber and based on continuous work of professional medical societies. Each society could propose their educational activities and receive accreditation (participants receiving educational credits). Specialist required receiving education in pediatric oncology participating this system, obtaining credits and getting new knowledge. Program/Policy process: The National Society of Pediatric Hematologists and Oncologists (NSPHO) organized a system of educational seminars in pediatric oncology with CME status and approved credits in different regions of the Russian Federation. NSPHO organizing one seminar per month, 12 seminars per year. Each seminar has three major components: organization (meetings with governments of regions), education (lectures and discussions) and workshops. These seminars are free of charge for all regions and organized with the help of resources of NSPHO. A special report with recommendations for improvement of pediatric cancer care prepared after each seminar and transferred to the Government and Ministry of Health. NSPHO organized also online CME courses with accreditation. To estimate the effectiveness of seminars we are doing surveys and estimation of quality of cancer treatment. Outcomes: All 86 centers and departments of pediatric hematology/oncology in Russia participating this system. All members of NSPHO (about 1200 participants) are studied within the single educational program including governmental certification and Russian CME educational meetings/seminars as well as online CME seminars. CME education in pediatric hematology/oncology and immunology for pediatricians allowed studying more than 1000 specialists during 2017. Estimation by surveys and quality control showed high effectiveness of seminars in early diagnostics and treatment. What was learned: CME platform for online and off-line education in Russia developing rapidly. Nowadays we involved all Russian regions to this work. Results showed high effectiveness of this approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and context: International cooperation is a key factor in the success of multicenter studies and educational projects, especially in LMICs. Aim: To describe projects of The National Society of Pediatric Hematologists and Oncologists (NSPHO) in the international collaboration. Strategy/Tactics: NSPHO international projects: optimization of care for children with cancer in Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and developing relationship with international organizations such as UICC, SIOP (Asian region). Unique feature is that these projects based on collaboration between healthcare professionals and governments with support of leading institutions. Program/Policy process: Program based on online and off-line meetings and courses. CIS project (in collaboration with WHO and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital) based on series of scientific and organizational meetings (online/off-line). Aim of this work is to organize a community of pediatric hematologists/oncologists of the region and prepare unique projects to improve the outcomes of treatment of pediatric cancer cases. Next meeting under the auspices if WHO will be held in Moscow in April 2018 (participants from 10 countries). The objectives of this meeting are to describe current situation of pediatric oncology care in the region, identify regional gaps in pediatric oncology care, and create collaborative project proposals to address identified gaps in care to improve pediatric cancer outcomes in the region. NSPHO working close with SIOP Asia: SIOP Asia Congress was organized in Moscow in 2016. Second project is developing of Directory of Asian Societies and Foundations in the field of pediatric hematology and oncology. Russian-Vietnamese collaborative group in pediatric hematology and oncology was formed in November 2017 in Vietnam. Second meeting of this group is planned for April 2018. Outcomes: More than 5 collaborative projects will be discussed such as CIS cancer registries, collaborative multicentre protocols, educational outreach projects, etc. As the deliverables the plan to publish a special report as well as a resolution to the Ministries of Health of CIS region. SIOP Asia Congress in Moscow was one of the most successful, attracted 1000 participants from 40 different countries attended. New relations were started. Directory of Asian Societies and Foundations in the field of pediatric hematology and oncology includes information on more than 40 organizations. Printed version will be presented at SIOP 2018 Congress in Kyoto. Several collaborative projects discussed in Russian-Vietnamese group. A "memorandum of understanding" was signed as a part of this meeting. It was decided to continue a series of scientific meetings as a part of collaboration. What was learned: Only active international collaboration supported by healthcare professionals and governments could lead to strong improvement of outcomes of pediatric cancer care in all countries worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Both hormonal and surgical treatment of cryptorchidism have undergone an evolution, resulting in improved management of this condition. Current factors influencing fertility are reviewed, with regard to present and future treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]