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Purpose: To evaluate the expression of core molecular clock genes/proteins in penile cavernous tissue from healthy male subjects and to determine whether their expression has circadian variation., Materials and Methods: Corpus cavernosum biopsy samples were obtained from 10 healthy males with penile deviation or fracture who underwent surgical intervention during the day and night. The daytime group (n=5) underwent corpus cavernosum tissue sampling during zeitgeber time (ZT) 8-12, while the nighttime group (n=5) underwent sampling during ZT 20-24. The expression and localization of BMAL1, CLOCK, PER1, PER2, PER3, CRY1, and CRY2 proteins were analyzed using immunohistochemistry and quantified using H-score analysis. RT-qPCR analysis was performed to assess the expression of core molecular clock genes in the corpus cavernosum tissue of 5 additional daytime patients., Results: The expression of core molecular clock proteins was detected in vascular endothelial cells (VECs) and smooth muscle cells (SMCs) in corpus cavernosum during daytime and nighttime. BMAL1 exhibited the most significant nuclear expression during daytime in both cell types, whereas its expression decreased significantly at night. In VECs, a significant decrease in the nuclear expression of CRY1 was observed at night. In SMCs, a significant decrease in the cytoplasmic expression of PER3 was observed at night. The expression patterns of the core molecular clock genes were ascertained through a RT-qPCR analysis., Conclusions: Our research provides compelling evidence that core molecular clock genes are distinctly expressed in penile tissue in humans. Furthermore, we observed the expression of molecular clock proteins within the VECs and SMCs of the corpus cavernosum, with BMAL1 being the most prominently expressed. The discovery of core molecular clock genes in penile tissue, as well as proteins within the SMCs and VECs of the corpus cavernosum, introduces the potential significance of the molecular clock mechanism in the physiology of penile erection., Competing Interests: The authors have nothing to disclose., (Copyright © 2024 Korean Society for Sexual Medicine and Andrology.)

The objective of the study is to primarily highlight the consistency between the embryologist and the histopathologist in microdissection testicular sperm extraction and to explore the factors affecting sperm retrieval. The research included 91 patients, aged 20 to 47, who visited our Reproductive Technology center from July 2020 to June 2023. Patient data were collected retrospectively, including demographics, physical exams, lab tests, radiological assessments, genetic analyses, medical histories and histopathological results. Using the Johnsen scoring system for evaluation, the histopathologist identified mature spermatozoa in the specimen in some patients (Johnsen score 8-10); however, the embryologist only declared successful sperm retrieval in 66.6% of them. Overall sperm retrieval rates were lower than expected at 40%. Significant factors influencing sperm retrieval rates included Follicle Stimulating Hormone ( p = 0.001), Luteinizing Hormone ( p = 0.007), testicular volume ( p < 0.001), histopathology ( p < 0.001), and alcohol consumption ( p = 0.007). A logistic regression model was used to identify the independent predictors of successful sperm retrieval. FSH ( p = 0.038), testicular volume ( p < 0.001), histopathology ( p < 0.001), and alcohol consumption ( p = 0.013) emerged as significant predictive factors for the outcome of sperm retrieval. As a result, in addition to patient-related factors, the consistency between the pathologist and embryologist also affects sperm retrieval rates., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest., (©2024 The Author(s). Published by MRE Press.)

This study aimed to compare the erectile and ejaculatory functional outcomes of unilateral and bilateral ruptures of the corpus cavernosum in penile fractures. Sixty patients' data were analyzed retrospectively between June 2020 and January 2023. The patients were divided into two groups based on the affected corpus cavernosum (unilateral and bilateral). Preoperative and postoperative 3rd-, 6th-, and 12th-month self-estimated intravaginal-ejaculation-latency-time (IELT), and international index of erectile function-erectile function (IIEF-EF) scores as well as the presence of urethral injury were compared. Bilateral corpus cavernosum fractures were detected in 18.3% of the patients. The IIEF-EF scores of both groups at 3rd-, 6th-, and 12th-month were found to be significantly lower than the preoperative scores (unilateral group:24.1 ± 2.7 vs 23.2 ± 3.5 and 23.3 ± 3.4, respectively, p = 0.011 and 0.014, respectively; bilateral group: 24 ± 1.9 vs 23 ± 1.8 and 23.2 ± 1.5, respectively, p = 0.027 and 0.047, respectively). No significant difference was found between the preoperative and the postoperative 12th month IIEF-EF scores in either group (unilateral group: 24.1 ± 2.7 vs 23.4 ± 3.6, p = 0.207;bilateral group:24 ± 1.9 vs 23.2 ± 1.5, p = 0.057). The self-estimated IELTs of both groups at the postoperative 3rd, 6th, and 12th months demonstrated a significant increase from the preoperative values (unilateral group: 221.6 ± 81.8 vs 252 ± 94.6, 256.5 ± 97.6, and 250.5 ± 104.8, respectively, p < 0.001; bilateral group:241.8 ± 61.6 vs 278.1 ± 55.4, 281.8 ± 56.1, and 283.6 ± 54.2, respectively, p = 0.041, 0.030, and 0.047, respectively). The changes in self-estimated IELTs and IIEF-EF scores between the preoperative period and the postoperative 3rd, 6th, and 12th-months were compared, and no statistical difference was found between patients with unilateral and bilateral corpus cavernosum fractures (p > 0.05). In conclusion, no significant difference in erectile function was found in either group at the 12-month follow-up, and the self-estimated IELTs were found to be prolonged in both groups. Furthermore, no difference was noted between the groups at any follow-up. To explain the effects of unilateral and bilateral injuries on erectile and ejaculatory functions, further studies with a larger-number of patients are necessary., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Purpose: To evaluate the effect of preoperative single-dose methylprednisolone use on postoperative early pain after retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS)., Methods: Patients who had 10-20 mm solitary kidney stones and underwent RIRS procedures were included in this prospective cohort study between February 2022 and May 2023. Patients who were administered methylprednisolone at a dose of 1 mg/kg preoperatively were included in group 1 (n: 31), and the other first 90 patients who met the inclusion criteria and did not receive methylprednisolone before surgery were included in group 2 (n: 90). Demographic data, features of stone, postoperative pain at 1, 6, 12, 18, and 24 hour, the need for analgesics, changes in serum glucose levels, and the prevalence of postoperative fever were compared., Results: Age, sex, stone laterality, localization, size, Hounsfield Unit, modified Satava scores, stone-free status, duration of the RIRS procedure, and duration of the ureteral access sheath were found to be similar between groups. Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores at postoperative 1, 6, 12, 18, and 24 h were found to be statistically significantly lower in group 1 (p = .001, p = .001, p = .001, p = .001, and p = .001, respectively). Similarly, postoperative analgesic requirements were found to be significantly lower in group 1 (p = .048) with a similar postoperative fever rate and changes in serum glucose levels between groups., Conclusion: Giving a single dose of methylprednisolone at a dose of 1 mg/kg preoperatively for the RIRS procedure is safe and effective at preventing early pain and the need for analgesics after the RIRS procedure., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V.)

Aim: We aimed to compare the first-year results of Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), the gold standard method, and Transperineal laser ablation (TPLA) techniques., Material and Methods: This study was designed as a prospective, randomized, controlled, and single-center and was conducted between November 2021 and February 2023. TURP candidates were included in the study. Demographic data and perioperative data were recorded. Preoperative and first-year International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), International Erectile Function Index (IIEF-5), Male Sexual Health Questionnaire-Ejaculatory Dysfunction (MSHQ-EjD), QoL, peak urinary flow rate (Q max ), prostate volume (PV) and postvoid residual (PVR) data were recorded., Results: Fifty patients were included in the study and were assigned to equal numbers of groups. TPLA group had a higher ASA score (p = 0.03). There was improvement in IPSS, Q max , and PVR parameters compared to baseline values in both groups at 1 year (p < 0.01). The improvement in Q max was better in the TURP group (p < 0.01). IIEF-5 score was similar between groups (p = 0.83 and p = 0.12, respectively). The MSHQ scores in the first year did not change according to their baseline values in the TPLA group (p = 0.54 and p = 0.34, respectively)., Conclusion: According to the first-year results of TPLA, the symptomatic improvement effect without sacrificing ejaculatory functions is comparable to TURP. We think that this method will can be an alternative, especially for patients who want to avoid ejaculatory dysfunction, who have a high risk of anesthesia, and whose anticoagulant/antiplatelet therapy cannot be discontinued., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V.)

Introduction: We aimed to determine whether there was a relationship between the perception of renal colic pain and different psychosocial and physiological factors., Methods: Between May 2021 and July 2022, we prospectively analyzed 320 patients over the age of 18 who were diagnosed with renal colic occurring unilaterally and secondary to a single kidney stone of any size. Body mass index (BMI), education level, hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS), somatosensory amplification scale (SAS), and the visual analog scale (VAS) features of stone (diameter, Hounsfield value, and localization) and degree of hydronephrosis were analyzed. Correlation analysis of VAS score and these parameters were completed with Spearman's test. The regression analysis was used to determine the predictive factors of severe pain., Results: There was no significant difference found between sex and VAS scores of colic pain (p=0.122). We found a significant correlation between VAS score and localization of kidney stone, degree of hydronephrosis, and anxiety level of patients. High grade of hydronephrosis and high anxiety level were found to be associated with high VAS scores (p<0.001 and p=0.035, respectively). It was shown that SAS and level of depression did not correlate with pain. Only a high degree of hydronephrosis was found to be a predictive factor for severe pain (p<0.01)., Conclusions: The patient's high anxiety level and a high degree of hydronephrosis were positively correlated with renal colic pain caused by kidney stones. With this study, the severity of pain in patients with a high degree of hydronephrosis and high anxiety can be predicted and may be a criteria to select suitable treatment to reach faster response.

Background: We aimed to examine the hematological parameters of pregnant patients with ureteral stones that require intervention., Methods: Medical data of patients presenting to urology department between October 2018 and December 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients with flank pain associated with hydronephrosis were included in the study and divided into two groups according to whether an intervention was performed or not (Group-1, Group-2). Ureterorenoscopy (URS) or ureteral stent placement was performed as intervention. Demographic data, complete blood count (CBC), urine analysis, and ultrasonographic findings were collected. Gestational age (week), number of pregnancies, maternal age (years), Anteroposterior pelvis diameter (mm), VAS (Visual Analog Scale) (range 1-10) and mean platelet volume (MPV) were collected from the patient file. Inflammatory markers including neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) were computed., Results: About 35 patients were included in Group-1 and 52 patients in Group-2. Ureterorenoscopy was performed in 21/35 (60%) patients, and ureteral stents were placed in 14/35 (40%) patients. None of the patients experienced complications. There was no statistical difference between these two groups in terms of maternal age, gestational age, number of pregnancies, pelvis diameter, PLR, and MPV. VAS and NLR were statistically higher in group-1 ( p  < 0.05). According to the Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis performed for the prediction of ureteral stone presence, the best cut-off point for the NLR 4.153 (sensitivity 80%, specificity 80.6%, area under curve (AUC): 0.824)., Conclusions: We think that NLR can be used to determine the group that needs to be intervented due to ureteral stones in patients with symptomatic hydronephrosis during pregnancy.

Introduction: We aimed to show the effect of patient information videos on preoperative anxiety before performing the percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL ) for kidney stones., Methods: This study was designed as a randomized, controlled trial with patients scheduled for PCNL operation for kidney stones. Demographic information, such as age, gender, and American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score, were collected. State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (ST AI) was used to measure anxiety levels. Before informing the patients, anxiety levels were evaluated using the ST AI-state (pre-information ST AI-S) and ST AI-trait (ST AI-T). Patients were randomly divided into two groups: both groups received written and verbal information, while the "video" group was also shown a video of a PCNL procedure. The post-information anxiety levels of both groups were evaluated using ST AI-S (post-information)., Results: A total of 109 patients were included in the study and 50 patients were included in each group after nine patients were excluded. The participants in the two groups were similar in terms of gender distribution, mean age, and pre-information ST AI-S scores. Post-information ST AI-S scores were statistically significantly lower in the video group (p=0.02). There was no significant difference between post-information and pre-information ST AI-S scores in the no-video group (p=0.86), whereas a significant decrease was found in post-information ST AI-S scores in the video group (p<0.01)., Conclusions: In addition to written and verbal information before PCNL operations, informative videos are an inexpensive, effective method to reduce preoperative anxiety levels. Video-based briefing may be routinely used in addition to preoperative verbal and written information.

Purpose: We aimed to show that the De Ritis Ratio (DRR) may be a new biomarker for lung metastasis in non-seminomatous Testicular Cancers (TC)., Material and Methods: Patients who underwent radical orchiectomy due to TC between January 2010 and January 2021 were included in the study. Demographic characteristics, preoperative laboratory and radiological findings and pathological data of the patients were recorded. The DRR was calculated from preoperative peripheral blood analysis., Results: A total of 124 patients with non-seminomatous TC were included. Mean patient age was 30.67±7.45 years, and the mean tumour diameter was 4.69±2.55 cm. 61 patients had T1, 51 had T2, and 12 had T3 disease. 42 of them had lung metastasis; 82 of them had no lung metastasis. The optimal DRR threshold was 1.21 for lung metastasis. [Area Under the Curve (AUC): 0.724 with a sensitivity of 81% and specificity of 74%]. DRR was determined as an independent prognostic factor for lung metastasis in univariate and multivariate analyses (p=0.002)., Conclusions: A high preoperative DRR can be used to detect the presence of lung metastases in non-seminomatous TCs., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest., (Thieme. All rights reserved.)

Background: To investigate the usefulness of serum procalcitonin (PCT) in the early diagnosis of urinary tract infection (UTI) and urosepsis following transrectal prostate biopsy., Methods: In this prospective observational study, 227 patients who underwent transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy were evaluated. The relationship between urosepsis and age, serum PCT, C-reactive protein, prostate-specific antigen (PSA), prostate volume, PSA density and pathologic results following biopsy was assessed. Serum PCT level was measured in all patients immediately before the biopsy and at the post-biopsy day 2., Results: Of the 227 patients, 11 (4.8%) developed UTI with positive urine culture without urosepsis and 5 (2.2%) developed urosepsis within 30 days after biopsy. The concentration of PCT was within the normal range before the biopsy. Procalcitonin concentration at post-biopsy day 2 was significantly higher in patients who developed urosepsis (1.91 ± 2.99 ng/ml vs. 0.05 ± 0.08 ng/ml; p  = .004) compared with non-UTI patients. Only elevated PCT level at post-biopsy day 2 was a statistically significant independent predictor of post-biopsy urosepsis. The area under the ROC curve for the prediction of urosepsis was 0.976 (95%CI: 0.941-1.000) and a cut-off 0.095 ng/ml in the level of PCT at post-biopsy day 2 yielded a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 93.8% in detecting urosepsis following biopsy., Conclusions: Procalcitonin appears to be a useful early biomarker to predict the urosepsis following prostate biopsy. Patients with elevated PCT value should be closely monitored after the biopsy.

Aetiologic and predisposing factors are still controversial about Peyronie's disease (PD). However, it is thought to be the result of connective tissue disorder or healing defect. Androgens are known to affect collagen metabolism and wound healing in the body. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between PD and low testosterone levels. One hundred and forty-seven Peyronie patients and 137 healthy volunteers were included in the study. In both groups, demographic data, medical history, physical examination and erectile capacity were recorded. Blood samples were collected from all subjects in the early morning hours after an overnight fast. The mean level of serum total testosterone was lower in men with PD compared with the controls (3.9 ± 1.1 vs. 4.2 ± 1.7 ng/ml respectively) (p = .062). However, statistically significant relationship was not found between PD and low serum testosterone levels. There was no significant correlation between penile plaque dimension or penile curvature degree and testosterone levels. Large randomised-controlled prospective studies are needed to reveal this possible association., (© 2020 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.)

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between mean platelet volume (MPV) and vitamin D levels according to ED severity. Methods: Between October 2015 and September 2017, patients who applied to the andrology outpatient clinic with an ED complaint were retrospectively reviewed. Patients with diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, malignancy, late-onset hypogonadism and smokers were not included in the study. The International Erectile Function Index-Erectile Function (IIEF-EF) questionnaire was used to assess the levels of erectile function. According to this scoring system, patients were divided into two groups. IIEF score: between 17 and 25 = mild ED (Group 1) and IIEF score between 16 and 0 = moderate-severe ED (Group 2). Blood samples of the patients were taken from antecubital vein and MPV and 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels were evaluated. Results: Ninety patients were included in the study (Group 1: n  = 41, Group 2: n  = 49). The mean age of the patients was 41.07 ± 8.56 and the mean body mass index (BMI) was 27.59 ± 3.91. 25(OH)D levels were found to be statistically lower in Group 2 (18.85 ± 6.09; 13.98 ± 7.10; p  = .001). MPV levels were found to be statistically higher in Group 2 (10.05 ± 0.81; 10.78 ± 1.16; p  = .001). Correlation between IIEF-EF scores and 25(OH)D levels was positive ( p  = .03, r  = 0.22). There was negative correlation between IIEF-EF scores and MPV and between 25(OH)D levels and MPV levels [ p  = .003 for IIEF-EF/MPV, p  = .04, r  = -0.23 for 25(OH)D/MPV]. Conclusion: There is a significant positive correlation between ED severity and 25(OH)D levels and there is a significant negative correlation between ED severity and MPV levels.

The purpose of the study was to investigate variables that may predict ureteral stone impaction and create a new model to predict more accurately stone impaction based on preoperative NCCT findings. Data of 238 patients who underwent URS were analyzed. Stone size, stone location, Hounsfield unit (HU) value of the stone, ureteral wall thickness (UWT) and grade of hydronephrosis were recorded. HU values of the ureter which are measured proximal and distal to the stone were recorded. Subsequently, we determined the factors that could predict the stone impaction in univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. After the AUC analysis for these factors, we created a new model to predict more accurately stone impaction. The formula was named Impacted Stone Formula (ISF). Stone impaction verified endoscopically. Predictors of impacted stones were evaluated using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Diagnostic value for the prediction of stone impaction was analyzed with receiver operating characteristic (ROC) incline. Overall, there were 196 patients included in the study. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that the HU below/above ratio, UWT, and grade of hydronephrosis were the crucial predictors of stone impaction (OR 20.53, p < 0.001; OR 10.55, p < 0.001; OR 5.95, p = 0.004, respectively). The ROC analysis revealed a cutoff value of 15.15 (AUC 0.958, p < 0.001, sensitivity 91.0%, specificity 97.7%) for the ISF. In conclusion, ISF is the most precise preoperative predictor of impacted stones in patients with ureteral stones. ISF could be used by the urologists before treatment to help preoperative planning and perioperative clinical course.

Purpose: Peyronie disease (PD) occurs as a result of recurrent microvascular injuries or trauma of the tunica albuginea, although its precise etiology is unknown. Mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet distribution width (PDW), and plateletcrit (PCT), which are parameters indicative of platelet activity, are considered to be functional markers of platelets involved in the pathophysiology of related inflammatory and vascular diseases. In this study, we aimed to examine the relationship between PD and platelet indices., Materials and Methods: We evaluated participants who presented to the andrology department of our institution between December 2015 and May 2018. Ninety-two men with PD and 80 healthy volunteers were included in this study. Participants who had received medical treatment affecting platelets or had any hematologic or systemic diseases were excluded from the study., Results: The mean age of men with PD was 53.8±10.2 years, and the mean age of the control group was 52.2±8.0 years (p=0.465). There were no significant differences in the mean IIEF-5 scores, platelet count, MPV, PDW, or PCT between the patients with and without PD (p<0.05)., Conclusions: No correlations were found between PD and platelet indices. Large-scale prospective cross-sectional studies are needed to elucidate the etiopathogenesis of PD., Competing Interests: The authors have nothing to disclose., (Copyright © 2020 Korean Society for Sexual Medicine and Andrology.)

Objectives: The aim of the study was to investigate the ability of the systemic inflammatory parameters to predict the discrimination of the phases of Peyronie's disease (PD)., Materials and Methods: Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data from 156 patients with PD were analyzed. A complete blood count (CBC) was obtained for every patient, and the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and monocyte-to-eosinophil ratio (MER) were calculated for every men. Subsequently, patients were divided into two groups based upon the phase of the disease., Results: The mean age was 51.9 ± 9.6 in all study population. The mean duration between symptom onset and patient evaluation was 4.2 ± 3.2 months in acute phase group, while it was 32.7 ± 31.7 months in chronic phase group (p < 0.001). There were no significant differences between the groups according to comorbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, lipid abnormalities, ischemic heart disease, smoking, and alcohol consumption. There was a statistically significant difference in NLR and PLR between two groups (p = 0.008, p = 0.008, respectively). NLR and PLR were significantly correlated with discrimination status in univariate analysis (p = 0.003, p = 0.005, respectively). Multivariate regression analysis revealed that NLR was the only independent risk factor for discrimination of the phases of PD (p < 0.001). The ROC analysis revealed a cutoff value of 1.8 (AUC 0.712, p < 0.001; sensitivity 61.1%; specificity 75.0%) for the NLR., Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that NLR could be helpful to differentiate the chronic phase from the acute phase in patients with PD. Therefore, NLR could be used as an objective biomarker to the management of the disease and choosing the appropriate treatment., (© 2019 American Society of Andrology and European Academy of Andrology.)

Among the Kluyvera species, K. ascorbata has been isolated from only a few adult cases. Furthermore, there is little or no information in the literature as to whether the species of Kluyvera can cause a clinically significant infection in pregnant women. We report a case of urosepsis caused by K. ascorbata in a 23-year pregnant woman at 26 weeks of gestation who presented with left flank pain. Ultrasonography showed left grade 3 hydronephrosis, ureteral dilatation, and a 10-mm distal ureteral stone. The patient underwent laser lithotripsy and JJ placement. Ten days later, she was readmitted with urosepsis and empirical antibiotherapy and aggressive hydration were initiated. On the third day, K. ascorbata growth was detected in the urine culture. Based on the clinical status of the patient and the antimicrobial susceptibility testing, the treatment was switched to ertapenem 1×1 g/day and was continued for 14 days. Among the Kluyvera species, K. ascorbata is the most frequent pathogen which may be isolated from pregnant women and can cause urosepsis. To the best of authors' knowledge, this is the first report showing the isolation of K. ascorbata in a pregnant woman which caused urosepsis.

In our study, we examined the effect of the three-dimensional (3D) stone segmentation volume and its ratio to the renal collecting system on complication rates. Data from141 patients who underwent PCNL surgery were analyzed retrospectively. Volume segmentation of both the renal collecting system and stones was obtained from 3D segmentation software with the images on CT data. After creation of a 3D surface volume rendering of renal stones and the collecting system, segmentation of the renal collecting system volume (RCSV) and analyzed stone volume (ASV) was analyzed and the ASV-to-RCSV ratio was calculated. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression model were used to determine factors that affected complication status. Diagnostic value for the prediction of complication rates was analyzed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) incline. Overall, there were 141 (92 male and 49 female) eligible patients included in the current study. The overall complication rate for PCNL monotherapy was 31.9%. Multivariate regression analysis (forward stepwise) revealed that the ASV-to-RCSV ratio and number of tracts were independent risk factors for developing complications (OR 1.17, p < 0.001; OR 7.87, p = 0.002; respectively). The ROC analysis revealed a cut-off value of 16.23% (AUC 0.869, p < 0.001, sensitivity 93.3%, specificity 78.1%) for the ASV-to-RCSV ratio. The distribution of stone burden volume in the pelvicalyceal system, which is calculated as a numerical value using the 3D volume segmentation method, is an important predictor of the complication rate before PCNL. The ASV-to-RCSV ratio as a quantitative value may be an instrument for urologists before surgery to help preoperative planning.

Purpose: To identify the factors increased fluoroscopy time during percutaneous nephrolithotomy and investigate the relationship between the 3D segmentation volume ratio of stone to renal collecting system and fluoroscopy time., Materials and Methods: Data from 102 patients who underwent percutaneous nephrolithotomy were analyzed retrospectively. Volume segmentation of both the renal collecting system and stones were obtained from 3D segmentation software with the images on CT data. Analyzed stone volume (ASV), renal collecting system volume (RCSV) measured and the ASV-to-RCSV ratio was calculated. Several parameters were evaluated for their predictive ability with regard to fl uoroscopy time., Results: The stone-free rate was 55.9% after the percutaneous nephrolithotomy. Complications occurred in 31(30.4%) patients. The mean fluoroscopy time was 199.4±151.1 seconds. The fl uoroscopy time was significantly associated with the ASV-to-RCSV ratio (p<0.001, r=0.614). The single tract was used in 77 ( 75.5%) cases while multiple tracts were used in 25 (24.5%) cases. Fluoroscopy time was significantly associated with multiple access (p<0.001, r=0.689). On univariate linear regression analysis, longer fluoroscopy time was related with increased stone size, increased stone volume, increased number of access, increased calyx number with stone, increased ASV-to-RCSV, increased operative time and decreased stone essence. On multivariate linear regression analysis, the number of access and the ASV-to-RCSV were independent predictors of fluoroscopy time during percutaneous nephrolithotomy., Conclusions: The distribution of the stone burden volume in the pelvicalyceal system is a significant predictor for prolonged fluoroscopy time during percutaneous nephrolithotomy. Measures to decrease FT could be benefi cial in patients with a high ASV-to-RCSV ratio for precise preoperative planning., Competing Interests: None declared., (Copyright® by the International Brazilian Journal of Urology.)

The aim of this study is to investigate whether serum vitamin D level predicts the risk of Peyronie's disease. Calcium and inflammatory cytokines play an important role during fibrocalcification of the plaques in Peyronie's Disease. TGF-β1 is one of the most fibrogenic cytokines. Increasing serum vitamin D levels is considered that induce expression of TGF-β1. Serum vitamin D levels and TGF-β1 are related with calcifications of some soft tissues in previous studies. One hundred and three Peyronie patients and 162 healthy volunteers were included in the study. In both groups, demographic data, medical history, physical examination and erectile capacity were recorded. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, triglyceride and testosterone levels were measured. The mean level of serum 25 (OH) D was significantly higher in men with Peyronie's disease compared with the controls (32.6 ± 7.9 ng/ml vs. 18.5 ± 6.6 ng/ml respectively. p < 0.001). There is a relationship between Peyronie's disease and high serum vitamin D levels. Also, increased low-density lipoprotein and total cholesterol levels, diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular diseases were associated with Peyronie's disease., (© 2019 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.)

Purpose: The aim of the study was to determine the effect of anticholinergics used for overactive bladder treatment on the sexual function of women., Methods: Between January 2016 and August 2018, over 18 years old, 216 sexual active women with OAB and 165 healthy women as control group were prospectively enrolled in the study. Five different anticholinergics were used for the treatment. Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), eight-item overactive bladder awareness tool (OAB-V8), and Beck Depression Inventory form were completed before and after 3 months. Baseline and post-treatment scores were compared with a control group of age-matched healthy women., Results: Patients with OAB reported at baseline significantly worse sexual function in all FSFI domains compared to healthy control group (21.47 ± 3.22 vs. 26.79 ± 5.56, p < 0.01). Three months after treatment, over 85% of participants reported clinically relevant improvements in sexual function, with statistically significant changes in mean FSFI scores., Conclusions: Treatment of OAB with anticholinergics can improve sexual function of sexual active women with OAB. Patients may be informed about this potential benefit of anticholinergic treatment, to improve their sexual function.

Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CP/CPPS) is often associated with erectile dysfunction (ED). However, the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of ED occurrence are still unclear in patients with CP/CPPS. The aim of the study was to investigate superoxide anion (O 2 •- ) and total reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in semen of men with category IIIA CP/CPPS and their association with ED. This prospective study included 33 men with category IIIA CP/CPPS. Control group consisted of 13 healthy men. Total ROS and O 2 •- production were assayed by luminol and lucigenin-dependent chemiluminescence (CL) methods, respectively. ED was evaluated using the IIEF-5 questionnaire. Patients with CP/CPPS had significantly higher seminal total ROS and O 2 •- levels than healthy control subjects (2.9 ± 0.5 relative light unit (RLU) vs. 2.4 ± 0.2 RLU, p < 0.001; luminol-dependent CL and 2.5 ± 0.4 RLU vs. 2.3 ± 0.2 RLU, p = 0.02; lucigenin-dependent CL, respectively). Seminal O 2 •- and ROS levels were negatively correlated with IIEF-5 scores (r = -0.556, r = -0.536; p < 0.001, respectively). These results may suggest O 2 •- /ROS overproduction could be one of the important mechanisms in the etiology of ED development in CP/CPPS patients.

Purpose: To investigate the pathophysiological role of superoxide anion and total reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by the spermatozoa of men with varicocele and its relationship with varicocele grade and semen parameters., Materials and Methods: This prospective study included 34 men with grade II-III varicocele, regardless of their fertility status. The control group consisted of 13 healthy men. Semen characteristics were examined according to the 2010 World Health Organization criteria. The swim-up method was used for sperm preparation. Total ROS and superoxide anion production was assayed by luminol- and lucigenin-dependent chemiluminescence (CL), respectively., Results: The men with varicocele had significantly higher total ROS and superoxide anion levels than the healthy control subjects (2.9±0.4 relative light unit (RLU) vs. 2.4±0.1 RLU, p=0.001 for luminol-dependent CL and 2.8±0.4 RLU vs. 2.3±0.2 RLU, p=0.002 for lucigenin-dependent CL). Cases of grade III varicocele had significantly higher superoxide anion and total ROS levels than grade II cases and control subjects (p<0.001). Superoxide anion and total ROS levels were negatively correlated with all semen parameters., Conclusions: The superoxide anion levels produced by spermatozoa were significantly higher in varicocele patients than in control subjects. ROS production was related to increased varicocele grade, impaired semen concentration, and abnormal morphology in men with varicocele. Our findings suggest that superoxide anion overproduction may be an important step in the cascade of ROS-related damage to spermatozoa, resulting in impaired semen parameters in patients with varicocele., Competing Interests: The authors have no potential conflicts of interest to disclose., (Copyright © 2018 Korean Society for Sexual Medicine and Andrology.)

Objective: To investigate the impact of personalized three dimensional (3D) printed pelvicalyceal system models on patient information before percutaneous nephrolithotripsy surgery., Material and Methods: Patients with unilateral complex renal stones with indicatation of percutaneous nephrolithotripsy surgery were selected. Usable data of patients were obtained from CT scans as Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) format. Mimics software version 16.0 (Materialise, Belgium) was used for segmentation and extraction of pelvicalyceal systems. DICOM format were converted to Stereolithography file format. Finally, fused deposition modeling was used to create plasticine 3D models of pelvicalyceal systems. A questionnaire was designed for patients to assess personalized 3D models effect on patient's understanding their conditions before percutaneous nephrolithotripsy surgery (PCNL). The day before surgery, each patient was seen by a urologist to deliver information about surgery. Questionnaire forms were asked to patients complete before and after presentation of 3D models and the results of the questions were compared., Results: Five patient's anatomically accurate models of the human renal collecting system were successfully generated. After the 3D printed model presentation, patients demonstrated an improvement in their understanding of basic kidney anatomy by 60% (p=0.017), kidney stone position by 50% (p=0.02), the planned surgical procedure by 60% (p=0.017), and understanding the complications related to the surgery by 64% (p=0.015). In addition, overall satisfaction of conservation improvement was 50% (p=0.02)., Conclusion: Generating kidney models of PCSs using 3D printing technology is feasible, and understandings of the disease and the surgical procedure from patients were well appreciated with this novel technology., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest: None declared., (Copyright® by the International Brazilian Journal of Urology.)

Objectives: As a result of organizational and therapeutic progress in the management of cancer, retail pharmacies are faced with numerous challenges in the follow-up of cancer patients. This study was designed to provide a better understanding of the way in which retail pharmacists define their role in the management of cancer patients and to identify actions that would promote more efficient coordination with other oncology professionals.Methods: Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with retail pharmacists and data were analysed by thematic analysis.Results: The majority (53%) of retail pharmacists provide patients with explanations concerning their treatments. Participants in this study described in detail patients’ questions concerning adverse effects (79%) as well as certain forms of alternative medicine (37%). Difficulties with an impact on patient follow-up were also reported, such as the lack of medical information concerning cancer treatments (21%) and their relationship with the hospital (26%).Conclusion: The availability of information tools shared by all healthcare professionals therefore appears to be essential to address the difficulties of follow-up of cancer patients by retail pharmacists.

Objective: To investigate the impact of three-dimensional (3D) printed pelvicaliceal system models on residents' understanding of pelvicaliceal system anatomy before percutaneous nephrolithotripsy (PCNL)., Materials and Methods: Patients with unilateral complex renal stones indicating PCNL were selected. Usable data of patients were obtained from CT-scans in Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) format. Mimics software version 16.0 (Materialise, Belgium) was used for segmentation and extraction of pelvicaliceal systems (PCSs). All DICOM-formatted files were converted to the stereolithography file format. Finally, fused deposition modeling was used to create plasticine 3D models of PCSs. A questionnaire was designed so that residents could assess the 3D models' effects on their understanding of the anatomy of the pelvicaliceal system before PCNL (Fig. 3)., Results: Five patients' anatomically accurate models of the human renal collecting system were effectively generated (Figs. 1 and 2). After presentation of the 3D models, residents were 86% and 88% better at determining the number of anterior and posterior calices, respectively, 60% better at understanding stone location, and 64% better at determining optimal entry calix into the collecting system (Fig. 5)., Conclusion: Generating kidney models of PCSs using 3D printing technology is feasible, and the models were accepted by residents as aids in surgical planning and understanding of pelvicaliceal system anatomy before PCNL.

Objective: The prevalence of stone diseases is high in Turkey. Thanks to the technological improvements and to the increase in the number of qualified and experienced specialists in the last thirty years, there has been an increase in the application of minimally invasive methods in the stone disease surgery. This study, with a sample survey of Western Black Sea region, aims at revealing the changes and improvements in the treatment of stone diseases in different centers in Anatolia within the last ten years., Material and Methods: Six centers in 4 of the provinces of the Western Black Sea Region were selected and the patients' files were retrospectively analyzed. The treatment methods that were recommended for and/or applied to the patients diagnosed with urinary stone diseases were recorded by years. The urinary stone diseases were divided into three separate groups; kidney, ureters and bladder. Treatment options were recorded into categories as open surgery, percutaneous nephrolithotripsy, retrograde intrarenal surgery, semirigid ureterorenoscopy, flexible ureterorenoscopy, and ESWL., Results: A total of 26044 patients with stone diseases have been treated in the above-mentioned centers for the last 10 years. The distributions of the stone diseases in relation to their localization were as follows: - kidney stones: 9040 (34.7%), ureter stones: 15264 (58.6%), and bladder stones: 1740 (6.7%). As for the distribution of the treatment in relation to the treatment methods, it was seen that open surgery for 1032 (4%) patients, endoscopic surgery for 15038 (58%) patients, and ESWL for 9974 (38%) patients had been applied. While URS and PCNL are currently the commonly used treatment methods in the Western Black Sea Region, RIRS has begun to be used in a limited number of patients for the last 3 years., Conclusion: Though being a little late, the advances in endrourology offer practical applications in the Western Black Sea region as well. Although this study suggests implications for the evaluating of the periphery outcomes of the improvements in stone disease treatments, for the planning of training schemes, and for equipment planning, further research based on more data from more centers is needed to have a nation-wide perspective.