The role of ‘artificial intelligence, machine learning, virtual reality, and radiomics’ in PCNL: a review of publication trends over the last 30 years

Introduction: We wanted to analyze the trend of publications in a period of 30 years from 1994 to 2023, on the application of ‘artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), virtual reality (VR), and radiomics in percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL)’. We conducted this study by looking at published papers associated with AI and PCNL procedures, including simulation training, with preoperative and intraoperative applications. Materials and Methods: Although MeSH terms research on the PubMed database, we performed a comprehensive review of the literature from 1994 to 2023 for all published papers on ‘AI, ML, VR, and radiomics’ in ‘PCNL’, with papers in all languages included. Papers were divided into three 10-year periods: Period 1 (1994–2003), Period 2 (2004–2013), and Period 3 (2014–2023). Results: Over a 30-year timeframe, 143 papers have been published on the subject with 116 (81%) published in the last decade, with a relative increase from Period 2 to Period 3 of +427% (p = 0.0027). There was a gradual increase in areas such as automated diagnosis of larger stones, automated intraoperative needle targeting, and VR simulators in surgical planning and training. This increase was most marked in Period 3 with automated targeting with 52 papers (45%), followed by the application of AI, ML, and radiomics in predicting operative outcomes (22%, n = 26) and VR for simulation (18%, n = 21). Papers on technological innovations in PCNL (n = 9), intelligent construction of personalized protocols (n = 6), and automated diagnosis (n = 2) accounted for 15% of publications. A rise in automated targeting for PCNL and PCNL training between Period 2 and Period 3 was +247% (p = 0.0055) and +200% (p = 0.0161), respectively. Conclusion: An interest in the application of AI in PCNL procedures has increased in the last 30 years, and a steep rise has been witnessed in the last 10 years. As new technologies are developed, their application in devices for training and automated systems for precise renal puncture and outcome prediction seems to play a leading role in modern-day AI-based publication trends on PCNL

Hematological parameters in subadult female dolphins (Grampus griseus)

The purpose of this study is to identify CBC Reference Intervals on Risso’s dolphins. There is no database of blood parameters in cetacean species and the correct evaluation is fundamental to interpret any pathological variations. In three years, 818 blood samples were collected from 9 pre-pubertal females hosted under human care during clinical routine checks. Blood was obtained from periarterial venous rete in ventral side of the flukes and then placed in EDTA tubes. The Complete Blood Count (CBC) parameters were considered and are going to be reported as mean ± sd (MIN; MAX). Studies on CBC parameters for dolphins are rare and obsolete. This is the first study carried out on a large number of samples of Risso's dolphins, which differ in feeding habits and in some ethological aspects from the other genera of the family. This is a preliminary research for future studies related to the difference for sex and age

Biochemical parameters in subadult female dolphins (Grampus griseus)

The purpose of this study is to identify Reference Intervals of biochemical parameters in dolphins as there is limited information on blood parameters in this cetacean species. Reference Intervals are specific to the test methods and should be calculated from a group of healthy animals. In 3 years, 818 blood samples were collected from 9 pre-pubertal females hosted under human care during clinical routine checks. Blood was obtained from periarterial venous rete in the ventral side of the flukes and then placed in tubes without anticoagulant for serum. The fundamental biochemical parameters were determined and reported as mean sd In literature, studies on CHEM parameters for dolphins are rare. Some analytes, such as the lipoproteins profile, and cholesterol levels could also differ significantly due to the dietary habits of different genera. Establishment of reference intervals specific to the species or group (i.e. sex, age) is essentia

Greenlight laser™ photovaporization versus transurethral resection of the prostate: A systematic review and meta-analysis

none9GreenLight laser™ photovaporization of the prostate (GLL-PVP) has become a valid alternative to traditional transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) in men requiring surgery for benign prostatic hyperplasia. We aimed to review systematically the safety and efficacy of studies comparing GLL PVP and TURP in the medium-term. A comprehensive literature search was performed. Twelve studies were identified for meta-analysis. Meta-analyses showed a longer postoperative catheterization time (risk ratio (RR): 1.12, 95% CI:1.09–1.14, p<0.00001) and length of stay (RR: 1.16, 95% CI:1.12–1.19, p<0.00001) in the TURP group; higher risk of transfusion in the TURP group (RR: 6.51, 95% CI: 2,90–14,64 p<0.00001); no difference in the risk of urinary tract infections (RR: 0.83, 95% CI: 0.58–1.18, p=0.30) and transient re-catheterization (RR: 1.11, 95% CI: 0.76–1.60, p=0.60). Regarding reoperation rate, no difference was found in term of postoperative urethral stricture (RR: 1.13, 95% CI: 0.73–1.75, p=0.59) and bladder neck contracture (RR: 0.66, 95% CI: 0.31–1.40, p=0.28). A significantly higher incidence in reoperation for persistent/regrowth adenoma was present in the GLLL-PVP (RR: 0.64, 95% CI: 0.41–0.99, p=0.05). Data at 2-year follow-up showed significant better post-voiding residual (PVR) (MD:-1.42, 95% CI:-2.01,-0.82, p<0.00001) and International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) (MD:-0.35, 95% CI:-0.50,-0.20, p<0.00001) after TURP. No difference was found in the mean PVR at 2 years after TURP, in the mean maximum flow rate (Qmax) (MD: 0.30, 95% CI:-0.02–0.61, p=0.06) and quality of life QoL score (MD: 0.05, 95% CI:-0.02–0.42, p=0.13). At 5-year follow-up, data showed better IPSS (MD:-1.70, 95% CI:-2.45,-0.95, p<0.00001), QoL scores (MD:-0.35, 95% CI:-0.69,-0.02, p=0.04) and Qmax (MD: 3.29, 95% CI: 0.19–6.38, p=0.04) after TURP. Data of PVR showed no significant difference (MD:-11.54, 95% CI:-29.55–6.46, p=0.21). In conclusion, our analysis shows that GLL-PVP is a safer and more efficacious procedure than standard TURP in the early and medium-term. However, in the long term period GLL-PVP showed a higher incidence of reoperation rate due to incomplete vaporization/regrowth of prostatic adenoma.openCastellani D.; Pirola G.M.; Rubilotta E.; Gubbiotti M.; Scarcella S.; Maggi M.; Gauhar V.; Teoh J.Y.-C.; Galosi A.B.Castellani, D.; Pirola, G. M.; Rubilotta, E.; Gubbiotti, M.; Scarcella, S.; Maggi, M.; Gauhar, V.; Teoh, J. Y. -C.; Galosi, A. B

Características biológicas de cepas de Herpesvirus bovino 1 y 5 utilizando el modelo experimental conejo

Los Herpesvirus bovinos (BoHV) pueden infectar tanto a mustélidos como a conejos y esta última especie ha sido utilizada como modelo de laboratorio para la infección por BoHV-1 y 5. El objetivo de este trabajo fue estudiar la patogenicidad de diferentes cepas argentinas de BoHV-1 y BoHV-5 utilizando el modelo experimental conejo. Se utilizaron conejos de raza neozelandesa que se inocularon por vía intranasal e intravaginal. Los animales inoculados por vía intranasal con cepas de BoHV-5 desarrollaron signos nerviosos en el 83% de los casos, mientras que BoHV-1.1 causó signos nerviosos en el 57% de los animales y BoHV-1.2 no provocó signos clínicos evidentes. El BoHV-5 causó síntomas nerviosos solo en los animales jóvenes mientras que BoHV-1 solo lo hizo ocasionalmente y también en individuos jóvenes. Los conejos inoculados por vía intravaginal no mostraron signos clínicos ni lesiones aparentes en los órganos estudiados; la infección se demostró por seroconversión serológica. El conejo resultó adecuado para estudiar la sintomatología y las lesiones producidas en los distintos órganos, fundamentalmente en el sistema nervioso central. El modelo resultó de utilidad por ser económico, de muy fácil manejo y permitió reconocer diferencias en el comportamiento biológico de las cepas de BoHV-1 y BoHV-5 estudiadas.Bovine Herpesvirus (BoHV) can infect both rabbits and mustelids. Rabbit has been used as a laboratory model for infection with BoHV-1 and 5. The objective of this research was to study the pathogenicity of different Argentinian BoHV-1 and BoHV-5 strains by using the rabbit experimental model. New Zealand rabbits were inoculated by intranasal and intravaginal ways. The animals inoculated intranasally with strains of BoHV-5 developed neurological signs in 83% of the cases. BoHV-1.1 caused neurological signs in 57% of the animals and BoHV-1.2 did not cause clear clinical signs. BoHV-5 caused nervous signs in young animals while BoHV-1 did so occasionally in young rabbits. Animales inoculated intravaginally showed no apparent clinical signs or apparent lesions in the studied organs. The infection was demonstrated by serological seroconversion. The rabbit was appropriate to study the clinical signs and the lesions produced in the different organs, primarily in the central nervous system. The model was useful for being inexpensive and very easy to use, and it enabled to identify differences in the biological behavior of the studied BoHV-1 and BoHV-5 strains

Does age impact outcomes of retrograde intrarenal surgery in the elderly? Results from 366 patients from the FLEXible ureteroscopy outcomes registry (FLEXOR)

Background: There has been a consistent increase in the last decades in prevalence of renal stones in elderly. Aims: To evaluate outcomes of retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) for renal stones in elderly and factors associated with postoperative complications and residual fragments (RFs). Methods: Data from 12 centers were retrospectively reviewed. Inclusion criteria: ≥ 75 years, renal stones only, normal renal anatomy. Patients were divided into three groups; Group 1: patients aged 75–79 years; Group 2: age 80–84 years; Group 3: age ≥ 85 years. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to assess factors associated with perioperative complications, sepsis, and RFs. Results: 366 patients were included. There were 189 patients in Group 1, 113 in Group 2, and 64 in Group 3. There was no difference between groups regarding stone features and total surgical time. Median length of stay was significantly longer in Group 3 (6.0 days, vs 2.0 days in Group 2 vs 2.5 days in Group 1, p = 0.043). There was no significant difference in postoperative complications and RFs between the groups. At multivariable logistic regression analysis, female gender (OR 2.82) and maximum stone diameter (OR 1.14) were associated with higher odds of sepsis, while surgical time (OR 1.12) and the use of a reusable ureteroscope (OR 6.51) with overall complications. Stone size (OR 1.23) was associated with higher odds of RFs. Conclusion: RIRS showed safety and efficacy for kidney stones in elderly patients. Surgical time should be kept as short as possible to avoid higher odds of postoperative complications, particularly in females

Adipose micro-grafts enhance tendinopathy healing in ovine model: An in vivo experimental perspective study

In Europe, approximatively 100 000 to 500 000 tendon repairs are performed every year. These procedures are associated with a considerable rate of postoperative complications (from 6% to 11%). Autologous micro-grafts (AAMG) and stromal vascular fraction (SVF) have been shown to improve tendon healing in 60% to 70% of treated rodents. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of AAMG in a sheep model with tendinopathy. We used sheep models because, as a large animal, they are more comparable to humans. The hypothesis was that SVF injection would improve tendon healing compared with the control group, reducing inflammatory and matrix degrading, while increasing anti-inflammatory expression and collagen synthesis in the early stage of tendon injury. Sixteen Apennine sheep aged 2 to 5 years underwent 500 UI type I collagenase injection into both common calcaneal tendons (CCT) to induce tendinopathy. After 15 days (T0), one CCT in every ovine underwent randomly to 2.5&nbsp;mL of AAMG obtained by mechanical disruption and the contralateral CCTs received no treatment. Clinical, ecographic, and sonographic evaluations were performed after 4 weeks (T1) and 8 weeks (T2). Histological, immunohistochemical, real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and biomechanical evaluations were performed at T2. At T2, the treated group showed a final tendon diameter (9.1 ± 1.4 mm) and a hardness expression (62%) that were similar to the original healthy tendon (8.1 ± 1.1 mm; 100%), with a significant recovery compared with the control group (9.5 ± 1.7 mm; 39%). Moreover, histological analysis of the treated group revealed an improvement in the fiber orientation score, fiber edema score, infiltrative-inflammatory process, and necrosis score (4.3 ± 3.3) compared with control group (8.8 ± 2.9). Immunohistochemically, the treated group showed high expression of collagen 1, Factor VIII and significantly low expression of collagen 3. These data were confirmed by RT-PCR analysis. The study findings suggested that AAMGs obtained through mechanical disruption present a safe, efficient, and reliable technique, enhancing tendon healing

Spread of vaccinia virus to cattle herds, Argentina, 2011

To the Editor: Since 1999, several zoonotic outbreaks of vaccinia virus (VACV) infection have been reported in cattle and humans in rural areas of Brazil. The infections have caused exanthematous lesions on cows and persons who milk them, and thus are detrimental to the milk industry and public health services (1,2). In Brazil during the last decade, VACV outbreaks have been detected from the north to the extreme south of the country (1–4). Because Brazil shares extensive boundaries with other South American countries, humans and cattle on dairy and beef-producing farms in those countries may be at risk of exposure to VACV. To determine if VACV has spread from Brazil to Argentina, we investigated the presence of VACV in serum samples from cattle in Argentina.Facultad de Ciencias VeterinariasComisión de Investigaciones Científicas de la provincia de Buenos Aire

Spread of vaccinia virus to cattle herds, Argentina, 2011

To the Editor: Since 1999, several zoonotic outbreaks of vaccinia virus (VACV) infection have been reported in cattle and humans in rural areas of Brazil. The infections have caused exanthematous lesions on cows and persons who milk them, and thus are detrimental to the milk industry and public health services (1,2). In Brazil during the last decade, VACV outbreaks have been detected from the north to the extreme south of the country (1–4). Because Brazil shares extensive boundaries with other South American countries, humans and cattle on dairy and beef-producing farms in those countries may be at risk of exposure to VACV. To determine if VACV has spread from Brazil to Argentina, we investigated the presence of VACV in serum samples from cattle in Argentina.Facultad de Ciencias VeterinariasComisión de Investigaciones Científicas de la provincia de Buenos Aire

The IL-17F/IL-17RC Axis Promotes Respiratory Allergy in the Proximal Airways

Summary The interleukin 17 (IL-17) cytokine and receptor family is central to antimicrobial resistance and inflammation in the lung. Mice lacking IL-17A, IL-17F, or the IL-17RA subunit were compared with wild-type mice for susceptibility to airway inflammation in models of infection and allergy. Signaling through IL-17RA was required for efficient microbial clearance and prevention of allergy; in the absence of IL-17RA, signaling through IL-17RC on epithelial cells, predominantly by IL-17F, significantly exacerbated lower airway Aspergillus or Pseudomonas infection and allergic airway inflammation. In contrast, following infection with the upper respiratory pathogen Staphylococcus aureus , the IL-17F/IL-17RC axis mediated protection. Thus, IL-17A and IL-17F exert distinct biological effects during pulmonary infection; the IL-17F/IL-17RC signaling axis has the potential to significantly worsen pathogen-associated inflammation of the lower respiratory tract in particular, and should be investigated further as a therapeutic target for treating pathological inflammation in the lung