Effects of Low Temperature, Freeze-Thaw Cycles, and Healing Conditions on Viability of Non-Ureolytic Bacteria in Biological Self-Healing Concrete.

The capacity of biological self-healing concrete (BSHC) to repair cracks relies on the sustained viability and metabolic function of bacteria embedded within the concrete. BSHC structures face significant risk in cold climates due to low temperatures and freeze-thaw (FT) cycles, during which freezing water can generate internal pressure that damages bacterial cells and diminishes their activity. A special feature of this study is the incorporation of bacterial spores within expanded clay aggregates, tested under varying environmental conditions.

Implantation of a sutureless aortic valve into the ring of a mechanical valve: an extreme solution for extreme cases.

Reoperations due to dysfunction of artificial mechanical aortic valves represent a complex and high-risk surgical procedure, particularly for elderly patients. In this report, we present a case of an 81-year-old female patient where, due to structural degeneration of the mechanical valve, an emergency surgical procedure was indicated. After the removal of the valve leaflets, a sutureless aortic valve was implanted within the mechanical ring.

Case Volume Is Not Associated With Outcomes After Adrenalectomy Performed by Urologic Surgeons.

Introduction: Our goal was to compare outcomes of adrenalectomy performed by low-volume and high-volume academic urologists with extensive experience in renal surgery.

Methods: A single-center retrospective review identified patients undergoing adrenalectomy by urologists from 2009 to 2023. Data were gathered on demographics, tumor characteristics, surgeon volume, surgical outcomes including length of procedure, estimated blood loss, length of stay, and complications identified by the Clavien-Dindo complication classification system.

Outcomes of open versus robotic partial nephrectomy: a 20-year single institution experience.

Robotic assisted partial nephrectomy (RPN) has emerged in urologic practice for the management of appropriately sized renal masses. We provide a 20-year comparison of the outcomes of open partial nephrectomy (OPN) versus RPN for renal cell carcinoma (RCC) at our institution. An IRB-approved retrospective review was conducted of RCC patients at a single institution from 2000 to 2022 who underwent RPN or OPN.