This observational cohort study investigated the potential of a novel sperm-washing medium (SWM) enriched with serotonin (5-HT), L-carnitine (L-C), and coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) to enhance sperm motility and reduce DNA damage. It compared this innovative medium (5-HT/L-C/CoQ10 SWM) with two widely used commercial media (SWM 1 and SWM 2). Ninety-eight volunteers from an infertility clinic provided semen samples, which were divided into three aliquots for analysis in different SWMs: group 1, SWM was composed of hydroxyethyl piperazineethanesulfonic acid (HEPES), sodium bicarbonate, human serum albumin (HSA), taurine, and gentamicin sulfate (SWM 1); group 2, SWM was composed of HEPES, sodium bicarbonate, and HSA (SWM 2); and group 3, SWM was composed of HEPES-buffered human tubal fluid supplemented with 5-HT, L-C, and CoQ10 (5-HT/L-C/CoQ10 SWM). Sperm motility was categorized as progressive, nonprogressive, or immotile. Apoptosis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and DNA fragmentation were also assessed. There were no significant differences in total or progressive sperm motility among the groups. Spermatozoa in group 3 exhibited reduced apoptosis, necrosis, and ROS levels and increased viability. No significant differences were observed in the DNA fragmentation index among groups. The 5-HT/L-C/CoQ10 SWM reduced sperm oxidative stress and apoptosis compared with those of the two commercially available SWMs, suggesting that 5-HT/L-C/CoQ10 SWM could be useful for enhancing in vitro fertilization success rates.
Humans ; Male ; Serotonin ; Carnitine/pharmacology* ; Ubiquinone/pharmacology* ; Sperm Motility/drug effects* ; Adult ; Spermatozoa/drug effects* ; Cohort Studies ; Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism* ; Culture Media ; DNA Fragmentation/drug effects* ; Apoptosis/drug effects* ; DNA Damage/drug effects*

Purpose: We investigated the effect of the time of secondary intraocular lens (IOL) implantation on final visual acuity and other causes affecting visual prognosis in cases left aphakic after open globe injury. Methods: The study included 62 eyes of 62 patients left aphakic after the repair of open globe injury between 2012 and 2019. Demographic characteristics, trauma zone, ocular trauma score, type of injury, time of secondary IOL implantation, final best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and complications were recorded for each patient. Results: The mean follow-up time of 62 patients was 25.05 ± 12.59 months. The preoperative BCVA was found to be 2.40 ± 0.86 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR), while the postoperative final BCVA was found to be 0.53 ± 0.70 logMAR (p < 0.01). The mean interval timing of secondary sulcus foldable IOL implantation was determined to be 3.79 ± 4.04 months. No correlation was observed between secondary IOL implantation time and final BCVA (r = 0.140, p = 0.319). Furthermore, when only pediatric patients were taken, an excellent positive correlation was found between the secondary IOL implantation time and final BCVA logMAR (r = 0.895, p < 0.01). Multiple linear regression on final BCVA with age, revealed a significant model explaining 48.0% of the variability with younger age and better final BCVA with as significant coefficients (p = 0.007). Conclusions Although time interval between primary repair and secondary IOL implantation to correct aphakia does not effect final BCVA in adult patients, earlier surgery should be considered for amblyopia management in pediatric patients.

Purpose: Biliary atresia (BA) is a disease that manifests as jaundice after birth and leads to progressive destruction of the ductal system in the liver. The aim of this study was to investigate histopathological changes and immunohistochemically examine the expression of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), synaptophysin, and S-100 protein in the gallbladder of BA patients. Methods: The study included a BA group of 29 patients and a control group of 41 children with cholecystectomy. Gallbladder tissue removed during surgery was obtained and examined immunohistochemically and histopathologically. Tissue samples of both groups were immunohistochemically assessed in terms of GDNF, S-100 protein, and synaptophysin expression. Expression was classified as present or absent. Inflammatory activity assessment with hematoxylin and eosin staining and fibrosis assessment with Masson's trichrome staining were performed for tissue sample sections of both groups. Results: Ganglion cells were not present in gallbladder tissue samples of the BA group.Immunohistochemically, GDNF, synaptophysin, and S-100 expression was not detected in the BA group. Histopathological examination revealed more frequent fibrosis and slightly higher inflammatory activity in the BA than in the control group. Conclusion We speculate that GDNF expression will no longer continue in this region, when the damage caused by inflammation of the extrahepatic bile ducts reaches a critical threshold. The study's findings may represent a missing link in the chain of events forming the etiology of BA and may be helpful in its diagnosis.

Purpose: To examine the efficacy of ptosis correction with a Müller muscle-conjunctival resection with or without tarsectomy (MMCR±T), combined with bandage contact lens (BCL) use, in corneal graft patients. Methods: Seven patients with corneal grafts who underwent MMCR±T for treatment of ptosis were evaluated retrospectively. A BCL was applied to the grafts at the end of the surgery. The collected data included preoperative and postoperative visual acuity, marginal reflex distance 1 (MRD-1), presence of Hering’s dependency by the phenylephrine test, symmetry outcomes, and complications after MMCR±T. Results: The average duration between the penetrating keratoplasty and MMCR±T was 14 months, with a follow-up time of 10.4 months after MMCR±T. Hering’s dependency was observed in four (57.2%) patients before MMCR±T, and MRD-1 was increased in all patients based on preoperative phenylephrine tests. The mean preoperative MRD-1 was -0.14 ± 0.55 mm, and the mean postoperative MRD-1 was 2.35 ± 0.89 mm (p < 0.0001). Symmetry outcomes of perfect (<0.5 mm), good (0.5–1 mm), and fair (≥1 mm) were noted after MMCR±T in three, three, and one patients, respectively. During the follow-up, no obvious corneal epitheliopathy, keratitis, or corneal graft rejection/failure were noted in any cases. BCL use was well tolerated by all patients. Conclusions Most patients achieved good surgical outcomes with the application of the BCL to protect the graft and with the use of the phenylephrine test and Hering’s dependency to predict the final eyelid position and symmetry. MMCR±T combined with BCL may therefore represent an alternative approach for correction of ptosis in patients with corneal graft.

Purpose: We investigated the effect of the time of secondary intraocular lens (IOL) implantation on final visual acuity and other causes affecting visual prognosis in cases left aphakic after open globe injury. Methods: The study included 62 eyes of 62 patients left aphakic after the repair of open globe injury between 2012 and 2019. Demographic characteristics, trauma zone, ocular trauma score, type of injury, time of secondary IOL implantation, final best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and complications were recorded for each patient. Results: The mean follow-up time of 62 patients was 25.05 ± 12.59 months. The preoperative BCVA was found to be 2.40 ± 0.86 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR), while the postoperative final BCVA was found to be 0.53 ± 0.70 logMAR (p < 0.01). The mean interval timing of secondary sulcus foldable IOL implantation was determined to be 3.79 ± 4.04 months. No correlation was observed between secondary IOL implantation time and final BCVA (r = 0.140, p = 0.319). Furthermore, when only pediatric patients were taken, an excellent positive correlation was found between the secondary IOL implantation time and final BCVA logMAR (r = 0.895, p < 0.01). Multiple linear regression on final BCVA with age, revealed a significant model explaining 48.0% of the variability with younger age and better final BCVA with as significant coefficients (p = 0.007). Conclusions Although time interval between primary repair and secondary IOL implantation to correct aphakia does not effect final BCVA in adult patients, earlier surgery should be considered for amblyopia management in pediatric patients.

Purpose: Biliary atresia (BA) is a disease that manifests as jaundice after birth and leads to progressive destruction of the ductal system in the liver. The aim of this study was to investigate histopathological changes and immunohistochemically examine the expression of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), synaptophysin, and S-100 protein in the gallbladder of BA patients. Methods: The study included a BA group of 29 patients and a control group of 41 children with cholecystectomy. Gallbladder tissue removed during surgery was obtained and examined immunohistochemically and histopathologically. Tissue samples of both groups were immunohistochemically assessed in terms of GDNF, S-100 protein, and synaptophysin expression. Expression was classified as present or absent. Inflammatory activity assessment with hematoxylin and eosin staining and fibrosis assessment with Masson's trichrome staining were performed for tissue sample sections of both groups. Results: Ganglion cells were not present in gallbladder tissue samples of the BA group.Immunohistochemically, GDNF, synaptophysin, and S-100 expression was not detected in the BA group. Histopathological examination revealed more frequent fibrosis and slightly higher inflammatory activity in the BA than in the control group. Conclusion We speculate that GDNF expression will no longer continue in this region, when the damage caused by inflammation of the extrahepatic bile ducts reaches a critical threshold. The study's findings may represent a missing link in the chain of events forming the etiology of BA and may be helpful in its diagnosis.

Purpose: This study investigated whether the placement of ribose cross-linked collagen (RCLC) membranes without primary soft tissue closure predictably resulted in sufficient alveolar ridge preservation in contained and non-contained extraction sockets. Methods: Membranes were positioned across extraction sockets, undermining full-thickness flaps, and the gingival margins were fixed by double-interrupted sutures without crossed horizontal mattress sutures for 1 week. In non-contained sockets, a bone substitute was used to support the membrane within the bony envelope. Radiographs and clinical images obtained 4 months later were analyzed by ImageJ software using non-parametric tests. Results: In 18 patients, 20 extraction sockets healed uneventfully and all sites received standard-diameter implants (4.1, 4.8, or 5.0 mm) without additional bone augmentation.Soft tissues and the muco-gingival border were well maintained. A retrospective analysis of X-rays and clinical photographs showed non-significant shrinkage in the vertical and horizontal dimensions (P=0.575 and P=0.444, respectively). The new bone contained vital bone cells embedded in mineralized tissues. Conclusions Within the limitations of this pilot study, open healing of RCLC membranes may result in sufficient bone volume for implant placement without additional bone augmentation in contained and non-contained extraction sockets.

BACKGROUND: P-glycoprotein (P-gp) transports many chemicals that vary greatly in their structure and function. It is normally expressed in renal proximal tubular cells. We hypothesized that P-gp expression influences light chain excretion. Therefore, we investigated whether renal tubular P-gp expression is altered in patients with plasma cell disorders. METHODS: We evaluated renal biopsy specimens from patients with plasma cell disorders (n = 16) and primary focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (the control group, n = 17). Biopsies were stained with an anti-P-gp antibody. Loss of P-gp expression was determined semi-quantitatively. Groups were compared for loss of P-gp expression, and clinical variables. RESULTS: P-gp expression loss was more severe in patients with plasma cell disorders than it was in those with glomerulonephritis (P = 0.021). In contrast, clinical and histological parameters including serum creatinine, level of urinary protein excretion, and interstitial fibrosis/tubular atrophy grade were not significantly different between the groups. P-gp expression loss increased with age in patients with plasma cell disorders (P = 0.071). This expression loss was not associated with serum creatinine, the level of urinary protein excretion or the interstitial fibrosis/tubular atrophy grade. There was no significant association between the severity of P-gp expression loss with the types and serum levels of light chains, isotypes and serum immunoglobulin levels. CONCLUSION: Renal tubular P-gp expression is significantly down-regulated in patients with plasma cell disorders characterized by nephrotic range proteinuria. Additional studies are needed to determine whether reintroduction of renal tubular P-gp expression would mitigate the proximal tubular injury that is caused by free-light chains.
Amyloidosis ; Atrophy ; Biopsy ; Creatinine ; Glomerulonephritis ; Glomerulosclerosis, Focal Segmental ; Humans ; Immunoglobulin Light Chains ; Immunoglobulins ; P-Glycoprotein ; Plasma Cells ; Plasma ; Proteinuria

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to examine the clinical and radiological results of the all-arthroscopic, suture-button fixation technique to treat acute acromioclavicular (AC) joint separations. METHODS: All patients with acute AC joint separations received all-arthroscopic, single suture-button (TightRope) procedure without a special guide. Postoperative Constant score (CS), pain level according to visual analogue scale, and range of motion (ROM) were evaluated. For radiological evaluation, coracoclavicular distances were measured bilaterally. RESULTS: Between December 2010 and June 2012, 18 consecutive patients (4 women and 14 men; mean age, 29.3 years) with acute AC joint separations underwent surgical treatment after 6.4 days (range, 2–20 days) following the initial trauma. The average postoperative follow-up was 16.9 months. The mean CS was 92.4 (range, 84–96). The mean external rotation, forward flexion, and abduction were 75.8° (range, 50°–90°), 170° (range, 150°–180°), and 163.8° (range, 140°–180°), respectively. Five patients exhibited coracoclavicular ossifications. In two patients, superficial wound infections were successfully treated with antibiotic therapy. In one patient, a coracoid fracture was observed. No significant differences were found regarding pain, ROM, or strength parameters between both sides. The coracoclavicular distance was discovered to be approximately 2.8 mm greater on the affected side; however, this minimal reduction loss did not affect the functional results. CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this study suggests that all-arthroscopic treatment of AC joint separations using the single suture-button technique without a drill guide is safe, yielding good to excellent clinical results.

INTRODUCTIONThe risk of surgery-related infection is a persistent problem in orthopaedics and infections involving implants are particularly difficult to treat. This study explored the responses of bone and soft tissue to antimicrobial-coated screws. We investigated whether such screws, which have never been used to fix bony tissues, would result in a cytotoxic effect. We hypothesised that the coated screws would not be toxic to the bone and that the likelihood of infection would be reduced since bacteria are not able to grow on these screws.

METHODSTitanium screws were inserted into the left supracondylar femoral regions of 16 rabbits. The screws were either uncoated (control group, n = 8) or coated with a polyvinylpyrrolidone-polyurethane interpolymer with tertiary amine functional groups (experimental group, n = 8). At Week 6, histological samples were obtained and examined. The presence of necrosis, fibrosis and inflammation in the bony tissue and the tissue surrounding the screws was recorded.

RESULTSLive, cellular bone marrow was present in all the rabbits from the experimental group, but was replaced with connective tissue in four rabbits from the control group. Eight rabbits from the control group and two rabbits from the experimental group had necrosis in fatty bone marrow. Inflammation was observed in one rabbit from the experimental group and five rabbits from the control group.

CONCLUSIONTitanium surgical screws coated with polyvinylpyrrolidone-polyurethane interpolymer were associated with less necrosis than standard uncoated screws. The coated screws were also not associated with any cytotoxic side effect.

Animals ; Bone Screws ; Coated Materials, Biocompatible ; Polyurethanes ; toxicity ; Povidone ; toxicity ; Rabbits ; Surgical Wound Infection ; prevention & control ; Titanium