bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Poemas: "Concepção" e "Desencantamento"
Authors: Batalha Douglas
Published: November 2018

Dois poemas de Douglas Batalha.
Hipótese da Mão
Authors: Gonçalves Junior Elvio Fernandes
Published: November 2018

Sete poemas em prosa.
Desejo e culpa na poesia inaugural de Vinicius de Moraes
Authors: Mascarenhas Pereira Natasha Juliana
Published: November 2018

Neste trabalho, buscamos analisar a primeira poesia de Vinicius de Moraes. Debruçamo-nos, sobretudo, nos dois primeiros livros – O caminho para a distância (1933) e Forma e exegese (1935) –, a fim de investigar um traço marcante de sua poesia erótica no período: a questão da culpa cristã. Após a delimitação de traços comuns à sua poesia inaugural em termos formais e temáticos, selecionamos alguns poemas que exemplificam tais aspectos, sobretudo no que se refere à dualidade entre desejo e culpa, bem como à relação entre o sagrado e o profano. Por fim, dedicamos especial atenção a um poema em que Vinicius desenvolve, por meio de uma alegoria, o conflito em questão, reconhecendo a inutilidade de se tentar negar a própria natureza.
As pedras e as cores. Transfigurações do nigredo e jornada circular em Evocações, de Cruz e Sousa
Authors: Araujo Manuella Miki Souza
Published: November 2018

Ao se valer do princípio alquímico de transfiguração, o poeta Cruz e Sousa conjuga as polaridades da arte e da vida, do criador e da criatura, dos desertos da África e do gélido Polo Norte, sintetizados em imagens derivadas da colorida opala. Em sua tentativa de transfigurar-se, é por meio desse princípio que se articula também a viagem interior do sujeito na obra Evocações, bem como a transição das formas do poema em prosa e da prosa poética, ali cambiantes como as cores do crepúsculo. O presente estudo centra a sua análise no poema em prosa de abertura, denominado “Iniciado”, em especial em seu primeiro parágrafo, que serve de prelúdio cifrado para a totalidade do difuso enredo, desdobrado ao longo dos variados 33 textos que compõem o livro em questão. Neste primeiro parágrafo, o eu poético transgride a rigorosa sequência de transformações da Grande Obra, quando desloca a etapa final do rubedo para o começo, e tenta desviar da fase primordial do nigredo, ocultada no desfecho de sua operação estética. Esse movimento de inversão é análogo àquele do poeta viajante, que foge de sua primeira natureza, identificada à mãe negra, mas acaba por confrontá-la nos textos derradeiros de Evocações
Volúpia de ser pássaro: o canto-resistência dos “Poemas aos homens do nosso tempo”, de Hilda Hilst
Authors: Leitão Andréa Jamilly Rodrigues
Published: November 2018

O presente trabalho pretende explorar a resistência poética de Hilda Hilst, com base na leitura dos “Poemas aos homens do nosso tempo”, pertencentes à obra Júbilo memória noviciado da paixão (1974). O contexto de publicação remonta ao período da ditadura militar, marcado pela censura, a ausência de liberdade e a supressão dos direitos humanos. As obras de arte possuíam, sob a forma de um imperativo, o compromisso de posicionar-se diante dos acontecimentos concretos da realidade. Neste sentido, pretende-se refletir acerca das contribuições e das limitações da noção de engajamento proposta por Jean-Paul Sartre (1989). Como um ato fundamental de amor, o canto-resistência hilstiano manifesta-se no esforço de restabelecer o élan fraterno entre os seres humanos e destes com a palavra poética. Os poemas da escritora conferem grandeza à arte, tendo em vista que cabe ao poeta o papel primordial de repensar criticamente o mundo.
O crítico Manuel Bandeira
Authors: Chauvin Jean Pierre
Published: November 2018

Neste ensaio, aprecia-se criticamente a introdução que Manuel Bandeira escreveu em 1946, como parte da Apresentação da poesia brasileira. Observam-se os pressupostos que motivaram a sua análise; o método com que procedeu na caracterização de determinados textos; e o propósito de valorizar alguns dentre os principais representantes do Modernismo, a partir da década de 1920.
Monstera limitaris (Araceae), a new species from the border between Costa Rica and Panama
Authors: CEDEÑO-FONSECA MARCO , KARREMANS ADAM P. , ORTIZ ORLANDO O.
Published: November 2018

Species of genus Monstera are among the most representative hemi-epiphytic Araceae in the Neotropics. They are widely distributed and abundant in the tropical forests of Costa Rica and Panama. During recent exploration in the border region between the two countries, an undescribed species belonging to the genus has been identified. The new species, Mostera limitaris, is described and illustrated here, using a color plate based on photographs of the vegetative and reproductive structures of live material.
The true Tectaria chinensis (Tectariaceae): morphology, distribution, and allied species
Authors: DONG SHI-YONG , TAN SHI-SHI , PHAM VAN THE , PHAN KE LOC
Published: November 2018

Tectaria chinensis is a poorly known species from China, with its type being the sole authentic voucher to date. Recent field observations and morphological comparisons reveal its type being an incomplete frond, which resulted in the constant misinterpretation of some morphological characters and the allied species to T. chinensis. In fact, T. chinensis is a very special species restricted in southern China and northern Vietnam and featured by the unique long and erect caudex and the rare combination of partly free venation and vein-dorsal sori. Phylogenetically, T. chinensis was revealed by our previous analyses of five plastid regions to be in the Ctenitopsis group (Clade III or T. subg. Ctenitopsis), forming a sister clade to the lineage of T. fuscipes. A detailed description, explanatory illustrations, as well as distribution and habitat information of T. chinensis are provided.
A new species of Ptychochromis from northeastern Madagascar (Teleostei: Cichlidae), with an updated phylogeny and revised diagnosis for the genus
Authors: SPARKS JOHN S. , STIASSNY MELANIE L.J.
Published: November 2018

A new species belonging to the endemic Malagasy cichlid genus Ptychochromis is described. Ptychochromis ernestmagnusi is known only from the middle to lower reaches of the Mananara River in northeastern Madagascar. Based on a unique configuration of the palatine, the new species is placed among the species of Ptychochromis considered to have an eastern-type palatine morphology by Stiassny and Sparks (2006). The new species is further distinguished from members of the “western clade” of Ptychochromis by anterior displacement of the first supraneural such that it overlies the dorsoposterior margin of the supraoccipital. Among species of Ptychochromis with eastern-type palatine morphology, P. ernestmagnusi shares with P. makira the possession of supraneurals with a characteristically flattened dorsal profile. Although P. makira and P. ernestmagnusi both possess paired lateral barring pigmentation patterns, the lateral flank bars in P. makira are distinctively V-shaped, whereas in P. ernestmagnusi they are oriented vertically. Ptychochromis ernestmagnusi is further distinguished from P. makira by prominent iridescent spangling on the flank and dorsal fin near its base, dusky grayish-green base coloration (vs. whitish), four laterosensory foramina on the lachrymal (vs. three), and a series of seven (vs. six) infraorbital bones. In addition, an updated phylogeny and diagnosis for Ptychochromis is presented, including anatomical data for the new species and novel anatomical data for the genus.
The leafhopper genus Alishania Vilbaste in China (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Deltocephalinae), with description of a new species
Authors: XING JI-CHUN , DAI REN-HUAI , LI ZI-ZHONG
Published: November 2018

The Oriental leafhopper genus Alishania (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Deltocephalinae) was established by Vilbaste (1969) for a single species, Thamnotettix formosanus Matsumura, 1914, from Taiwan. So far, this genus included only the type species. Here we describe and illustrate a new species from Guizhou Province, China. Type specimens are deposited in the Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China (GUGC).
A new Endoclita (C. &. R. Felder, 1874) from the High Mountains of Taiwan with notes about its evolutionary origins (Lepidoptera: Hepialidae)
Authors: BUCHSBAUM ULF , HSU LI-PENG , CHEN DING-JIA , GREHAN JOHN R.
Published: November 2018

A new species Endoclita atayala Buchsbaum & Hsu sp. n. is based on a single female specimen collected at light in the high mountains of northern Taiwan. Comparisons with all other Endoclita (C. & R. Felder, 1874) species confirms that E. atayala sp. n. exhibits distinctive and unique wing pattern characteristics and probably has a sister group relationship with E. crenilimbata (Le Cerf, 1919) of southeastern China and illustrated here for the first time, and E. nodus (Chu & Wang, 1985) of northeastern China. The species diversity of Taiwanese Hepialidae is described and the biogeographic implications of the E. atayala sp. n. relationship for the origin of endemic species in Taiwan are reviewed.
On the Nonlinearity of Winter Northern Hemisphere Atmospheric Variability
Authors: Hannachi A. , Iqbal W.
Published: November 2018

Nonlinearity in the Northern Hemisphere’s wintertime atmospheric flow is investigated from both an intermediate-complexity model of the extratropics and reanalyses. A long simulation is obtained using a three-level quasigeostrophic model on the sphere. Kernel empirical orthogonal functions (EOFs), which help delineate complex structures, are used along with the local flow tendencies. Two fixed points are obtained, which are associated with strong bimodality in two-dimensional kernel principal component (PC) space, consistent with conceptual low-order dynamics. The regimes reflect zonal and blocked flows. The analysis is then extended to ERA-40 and JRA-55 using daily sea level pressure (SLP) and geopotential heights in the stratosphere (20 hPa) and troposphere (500 hPa). In the stratosphere, trimodality is obtained, representing disturbed, displaced, and undisturbed states of the winter polar vortex. In the troposphere, the probability density functions (PDFs), for both fields, within the two-dimensional (2D) kernel EOF space are strongly bimodal. The modes correspond broadly to opposite phases of the Arctic Oscillation with a signature of the negative North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO). Over the North Atlantic–European sector, a trimodal PDF is also obtained with two strong and one weak modes. The strong modes are associated, respectively, with the north (or +NAO) and south (or −NAO) positions of the eddy-driven jet stream. The third weak mode is interpreted as a transition path between the two positions. A climate change signal is also observed in the troposphere of the winter hemisphere, resulting in an increase (a decrease) in the frequency of the polar high (low), consistent with an increase of zonal flow frequency.
The Mechanisms of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation Slowdown Induced by Arctic Sea Ice Decline
Authors: Liu Wei , Fedorov Alexey , Sévellec Florian
Published: November 2018

We explore the mechanisms by which Arctic sea ice decline affects the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (AMOC) in a suite of numerical experiments perturbing the Arctic sea ice radiative budget within a fully coupled climate model. The imposed perturbations act to increase the amount of heat available to melt ice, leading to a rapid Arctic sea ice retreat within 5 years after the perturbations are activated. In response, the AMOC gradually weakens over the next ~100 years. The AMOC changes can be explained by the accumulation in the Arctic and subsequent downstream propagation to the North Atlantic of buoyancy anomalies controlled by temperature and salinity. Initially, during the first decade or so, the Arctic sea ice loss results in anomalous positive heat and salinity fluxes in the subpolar North Atlantic, inducing positive temperature and salinity anomalies over the regions of oceanic deep convection. At first, these anomalies largely compensate one another, leading to a minimal change in upper ocean density and deep convection in the North Atlantic. Over the following years, however, more anomalous warm water accumulates in the Arctic and spreads to the North Atlantic. At the same time, freshwater that accumulates from seasonal sea ice melting over most of the upper Arctic Ocean also spreads southward, reaching as far as south of Iceland. These warm and fresh anomalies reduce upper ocean density and suppress oceanic deep convection. The thermal and haline contributions to these buoyancy anomalies, and therefore to the AMOC slowdown during this period, are found to have similar magnitudes. We also find that the related changes in horizontal wind-driven circulation could potentially push freshwater away from the deep convection areas and hence strengthen the AMOC, but this effect is overwhelmed by mean advection.
A Theory for the Seasonal Predictability Barrier: Threshold, Timing, and Intensity
Authors: Liu Zhengyu , Jin Yishuai , Rong Xinyao
Published: November 2018

A theory is developed in a stochastic climate model for understanding the general features of the seasonal predictability barrier (PB), which is characterized by a band of maximum decline in autocorrelation function phase-locked to a particular season. Our theory determines the forcing threshold, timing, and intensity of the seasonal PB as a function of the damping rate and seasonal forcing. A seasonal PB is found to be an intrinsic feature of a stochastic climate system forced by either seasonal growth rate or seasonal noise forcing. A PB is generated when the seasonal forcing, relative to the damping rate, exceeds a modest threshold. Once generated, all the PBs occur in the same calendar month, forming a seasonal PB. The PB season is determined by the decline of the seasonal forcing as well as the delayed response associated with damping. As such, for a realistic weak damping, the PB season is locked close to the minimum SST variance under the seasonal growth-rate forcing, but after the minimum SST variance under the seasonal noise forcing. The intensity of the PB is determined mainly by the amplitude of the seasonal forcing. The theory is able to explain the general features of the seasonal PB of the observed SST variability over the world. In the tropics, a seasonal PB is generated mainly by a strong seasonal growth rate, whereas in the extratropics a seasonal PB is generated mainly by a strong seasonal noise forcing. Our theory provides a general framework for the understanding of the seasonal PB of climate variability.
Sensitivity of Forward-Modeled Bending Angles to Vertical Interpolation of Refractivity for Radio Occultation Data Assimilation
Authors: Gilpin Shay , Anthes Richard , Sokolovskiy Sergey
Published: November 2018

Assimilation of radio occultation (RO) observations into numerical weather prediction (NWP) models has improved forecasts, where RO is typically one of the top five observational systems contributing to forecast accuracy. By measuring the phase delay of radio waves traversing Earth’s atmosphere between global positioning system (GPS) and low-Earth orbiting satellites, RO obtains quasi-vertical profiles of bending angles (BA) of the radio waves’ trajectories. BA are the RO observation most often assimilated into NWP models, but since they are not computed or analyzed in the models, they must be computed from model data using a forward model. First, model refractivity N is computed from variables specified on the model’s vertical levels, then using the Abel integral, BA are computed from N. The forward model requires vertical differentiation of N, and accurate differentiation requires vertical interpolation of N between model levels. The interpolation results in errors, which then propagate through the forward model to produce BA errors. In this study, we investigate the sensitivity of forward-modeled BA to five different methods of vertical interpolation of N between model levels to determine a method that minimizes interpolation errors. We use RO-observed N to isolate the interpolation errors and determine an accurate method that can be applied to any NWP model. Of the five methods investigated, the log-spline interpolation reduces N and BA errors the most, regardless of the vertical resolution of the model grid.
Testing the Influence of Recent Weather on Perceptions of Personal Experience with Climate Change and Extreme Weather in New York State
Authors: Fownes Jennifer R. , Allred Shorna B.
Published: November 2018

The general public’s perceptions of climate change may be shaped by local climate impacts through the mechanism of experiential processing. Although climate change is a long-term global trend, individuals personally experience it as weather from moment to moment. This study assesses how New York State adults’ overall perceptions of their personal experiences with the effects of climate change and extreme weather (surveyed in early 2014) are related to recent weather conditions. This research is unique in that it examines multiple types of weather: temperature and precipitation, over 1 day or 1 week, quantified both as relative and nonrelative measures. Respondents’ perceptions that they had personally experienced climate change or extreme weather significantly increased with warmer relative (percentage of normal) minimum temperatures on the day of the study. Maximum temperatures and total precipitation levels were not significant predictors of perceptions of personal experience, either on the day of the study or over the preceding week. Experiential processing had a smaller effect on perceptions than motivated reasoning, the influence of preexisting ideas. Respondents who believed that climate change was happening agreed more that they had personally experienced it or extreme weather, and this effect increased for individuals who thought that climate change was anthropogenic, as opposed to naturally caused. Of the sociodemographic factors assessed here, political party, gender, and region were significant predictors, while age and education were not.
Understanding Criminal Punishment and Prisons in China
Authors: Wu Wei , Vander Beken Tom
Published: November 2018

This article provides an interpretation of the evolution of criminal punishment and prisons in China from an historical perspective. The historical investigation reveals that the current ganhua and paternalistic or fatherly approaches to prison corrections are expressions of an underlying cultural tradition that is deep and abiding. However, the existence of the paradoxical goals of punishment and reformation at the level of the implementation of prison sentences, which can erode the protection of the rights of prisoners, is contingent upon political and legal decisions that can be changed by acts of law and legal reform.
Weld bead graphical prediction of cold metal transfer weldment using ANFIS and MRA model on Matlab platform
Authors: Girinath B , Siva Shanmugam N , Sankaranarayanasamy K
Published: November 2018

A difficult task for the transport sector is to make its assemblies lighter and perform more efficiently. Use of aluminum and its alloys has increased extensively in this sector because of reduction in weight of the vehicles and resulting energy savings. High thermal conductivity and thermal expansion pose difficulty in welding of these alloys. Cold metal transfer (CMT), a low heat input welding process, is the best choice for welding of these alloys. However, controlling the welding input parameters is highly necessary to obtain defect-free and high strength welded joints. In the present study, an attempt is made to develop a Matlab software-based application by two approaches, such as multiple regression analysis (MRA) and adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS), for predicting the complete weld bead shape (graphical representation) of AA5052 using the CMT welding process. The data inputs used for both approaches are welding current (A) and welding speed (mm/min), respectively. A graphical interface is built to help the user to choose welding input parameters and obtain directly a representation of the weld bead profile in graphical form. In addition, the output response shows the complete weld bead shape, which is defined by the X and Y coordinates of the various points in the weld bead profile. The results are validated with randomized tests against the weld bead shape predicted by Matlab. Comparatively, ANFIS is the more effective method for predicting the weld bead profile and shows better agreement with the experimental profile than MRA. Further, the reliability and stability of the ANFIS model were determined from the mean absolute error percentage, root mean square error values, and linear R2 fit model, confirming that the ANFIS-based prediction is in better agreement with the experimental values than MRA.
The impact of rotational speed and water volume on textile translational motion in a front-loading washer
Authors: Liu Hong , Gong R Hugh , Xu Pinghua , Ding Xuemei , Wu Xiongying
Published: November 2018

Textile motion in a front-loading washer has been characterized via video capturing, and a processing system developed based on image geometric moment. Textile motion significantly contributes to the mass transfer of the wash solution in porous materials, particularly in the radial direction (perpendicular to the rotational axis of the inner drum). In this paper, the velocity profiles and residence time distributions of tracer textiles have been investigated to characterize the textile dynamics in a front-loading washer. The results show that the textile motion varies significantly with the water volume and rotational speed, and that the motion path follows certain patterns. Two regions are observed in the velocity plots: a passive region where the textile moves up with low velocity and an active region where the textile falls down with relatively high speed. A stagnant area in the residence time profile is observed. This corresponds to the passive region in the velocity profile. The stagnant area affects the mechanical action, thus influencing washing efficiency and textile performance. The findings on textile dynamics will help in the development of better front-loading washers.
Body armor for stab and spike protection, Part 2: a review of test methods
Authors: Nayak Rajkishore , Crouch Ian , Kanesalingam Sinnappoo , Wang Lijing , Ding Jie , Tan Ping , Lee Bin , Miao Menghe , Ganga Deepak , Padhye Rajiv
Published: November 2018

In many countries, stabbing is still the most common cause of homicide. It is difficult to quantify the magnitude of the force used in a stabbing incident by an alleged assailant. Pathologists describe the stabbing force using relative subjective terms, such as mild, moderate, considerable or severe. More precise objective evaluation of the severity of stabbing is very important for quantitative understanding of stab wounds and for scientific assessment of the effectiveness of stab-resistant armor. In this perspective review, the standard objective methods used for the quantification of the protection provided by the stab and spike or puncture resistant materials are described. In addition, the nonstandard test methods developed by various research organizations have also been discussed. This paper is a follow-up to the previous paper (Body armor for stab and spike protection, Part 1: scientific literature review) published in the Textile Research Journal. Special emphasis has been given to the recent developments in both test standards and experimental methodologies used to evaluate stab and spike protection. This paper has systematically reviewed the standard test methods used for evaluating the stab and spike protection performance of body armor for comparisons. Furthermore, the backing materials, which are used for stab and puncture resistance tests to quantify the back-face deformation, were highlighted. Also, the approach for the wearer’s trial to predict the performance was discussed. This paper will provide guidelines to researchers, manufacturers and defense department working in the area of design and fabrication of body armor systems.
Optimizing nature: Invoking the “natural” in the struggle over water fluoridation
Authors: Zelko Frank
Published: November 2018

For the past seventy years, a host of scientific and public health bodies in the United States have strongly endorsed the practice of adding fluoride compounds to public water supplies as a prophylactic against dental caries. Throughout that period, a constant undercurrent of skepticism and outright opposition has slowed the adoption of the practice in the United States and limited its spread to just a handful of countries around the world. One of the attractions of water fluoridation is its affordability: the fluoride compounds are sourced from the phosphate and aluminum industries, for whom they would otherwise constitute an annoying toxic waste disposal problem. Despite this, proponents have nonetheless succeeded in shaping a narrative that casts fluoridation as “natural” or at least mimicking nature. I demonstrate how fluoridationists were able to persuasively argue that adding a pollutant to the water supply was safe and natural. In the process, I examine how environmental historians and historians of science approach topics such as fluoridation. I suggest that as a result of the influence of science and technology studies and an ontological turn toward hybridity, the two subdisciplines are becoming increasingly convergent.
Perceived Age Discrimination and Job Satisfaction Among Older Employed Men in Japan
Authors: Harada Ken , Sugisawa Hidehiro , Sugihara Yoko , Yanagisawa Shizuko , Shimmei Masaya
Published: November 2018

The present study examined the additive effects of age discrimination, as well as the buffering effects of psychosocial resources in reducing the negative impact of age discrimination on job satisfaction, among older employed men in Japan. Data were obtained from a national survey administered in 2016 to a probability-based sample of men aged 55 to 64 years ( n = 514). The results indicated that perceived age discrimination at work was associated with a lower level of job satisfaction. Moreover, a high level of social support from supervisors and coworkers decreased the negative impact of perceived age discrimination on job satisfaction. Our findings suggest that organizational-level interventions might be necessary to mitigate age discrimination and increase social support for keeping older employees in the workforce beyond their conventional retirement age.
Chinese Christian Studies and Anglophone Literary Studies
Authors: Duran Angelica
Published: November 2018

The author responds to the most salient matters in Chin Kenpa’s paper in this journal issue on the Chinese biography Wuchanzhe Yesu 無產者耶穌 (Jesus, the Proletarian) by W.T. Chu (朱維之, Zhu Weizhi), with special emphasis on the interrelated matters of linguistic context, uneven academic cultural resources, and agency within publishing networks, in turn outlining inroads for deepening Anglophone–Chinese literary critical conversations through a convergence of biblical studies, comparative literature, and World Literature.
Introduction to Theory and Theology in Chinese Literary Studies
Authors: Kim Sharon
Published: November 2018

Based in the context of Marxist China, Chinese intellectuals with no church background or affiliation have yet shown a keen interest in reading and applying the insights of western Christian theology. In Chinese literary studies, such scholars, who are secular in orientation, integrate both theory and theology in their work. This Sino-theological scholarship is virtually unknown in literary studies in the USA. Yet as demonstrated in the work of Yang Huilin and Liu Xiaofeng, among others, it contributes to a globalized understanding of literary studies. It also challenges current understandings of secularism, adding a new dimension to post-secular theory.
The Hermeneutic Circle, Textual Integrity, and the Validity of Interpretation
Authors: Longxi Zhang
Published: November 2018

In both China and the West, there is an emphasis on the literal sense as the basis of all interpretations. By discussing the hermeneutic circle, the textual integrity, and the connection of the theological tradition from Augustine to Aquinas and Luther with contemporary literary theory, this essay comments on the various concepts and argues for the importance of the plain or literal sense of the text for valid interpretation.
Secular and Post-secular in China and the West
Authors: Felch Susan M.
Published: November 2018

Ping-cheung Lo’s reading of Yang Huilin’s oeuvre, particularly his early work, argues that Yang’s theological discourse is a means of ushering secularism into China rather than, as is the case with western postsecularity, reversing the course of secularism. In light of that claim, this article explores the dynamics of “theology,” “religion,” and “Christianity” as these terms are deployed in Yang’s work and probes possible points of intersection, as well as contrast, with postsecular literary theory in the West.
Posterior urethroplasty
Authors: Barbagli C. , Palminteri E. , Azzaro F. , Mottola A. , Rizzo M.
Published: November 2018

The surgical approach to posterior urethral lesions has been gready modified during the last few years. The perineal approach is today generally preferred to the transpubic one and a new “enlarged” perineal retropubic method has been developed. Personal experience in the treatment of 12 patients with complex urethral lesions of iatrogenic and traumatic origin is reported. The operations were performed by means of a simple perineal approach in 4 cases; an enlarged perineal approach in 4; a combined transpubic-perineal in 2 and retropubic-perineal in the remaining 2. The reasons for the different choices are discussed and the surgical details are described for the operations employed.
ESWL and informatics
Authors: Cavalleri S. , Rahmati M. , Schiavone D.
Published: November 2018

Some functions of the lithotriptor, like the targeting of the stone, the generation and synchronisation of shock waves, the recognition of errors in the system and printing of the description of the treatment, couldn't be done without a computerised control. As the lithotriptor lacks an interface with a storage system for the treatments, we set up a specific database for ESWL which makes it possible to verify the result of previous treatments and to correlate the data of extracorporeal treatments with clinical data. Finally our programme generates an automatised report, producing a more complete document than that printed by the lithotriptor.
Penile prostheses: Progress and present situation
Authors: Fontana D. , Rolle L. , Del Noce G. , Tamagnone A. , Rosso C.
Published: November 2018

After having shown the progress made in the last twenty years in the treatment of erectile dysfunction through the application of penile prostheses, the Authors define the actual situation on the basis of their personal experience as well as data from the most recent literature. The Authors dwell in particular on indications for the operation in different types of erectile dysfunction and on the choice of prosthesis. The Authors examine all the possible complications and eventual mechanical failures, which have considerably decreased in the last few years. Finally the Authors analyse the degree of patient satisfaction after the operation and conclude that it depends mostly on correct indication, choice of the most appropriate prosthesis and the information given to the patient and his partner.
Prostheses in surgery of transsexuals
Authors: Perolino R. Marten , Cocimano V. , Pugno E.
Published: November 2018

The Authors describe the use of penile prostheses in the building of a penis cast with some considerations about the complications.
Transcutaneous electrovesicography
Authors: Shafik A. , Fattah A.A.
Published: November 2018

Transcutaneous electrovesicography was performed in 22 healthy volunteers (mean age 41.6 years, 12 men and 10 women) with the urinary bladder (UB) both full and empty. The study was performed also in 9 cystectomy patients who had had bladder cancer (mean age 37.6 years, 6 men and 3 women). Optimal electrode position was established by locating one electrode above and lateral to each pubic tubercle and a 3rd one above the symphysis pubis. A reference electrode was applied to a lower limb. A strain gauge respiratory transducer was attached to the thoracic wall. Pacesetter potentials (PPs) were recorded from both the full and empty UB. The PPs were triphasic and had the same frequency, amplitude and regular rhythm when repeated in the individuai subject. PPs recorded from the empty UB had the same character but a lower amplitude than those recorded from the full UB. Ali of the cystectomy patients had a ‘silent’ electrovesicogram. In conclusion, electrovesicography could be performed transcutaneously. It may be a useful investigative method in the diagnosis of vesical disorders. It is safe, simple, without complications and cost-effective.
PSA in prostate cancer: Criticai evaluation of clinically available assay methods
Authors: Gion M. , Barioli P.
Published: November 2018

PSA is probably the most commonly used tumour marker in oncology. The absolute tissue specificity of PSA, as well as its well-established rote in clinical decision making, nave certainly contributed to its widespread use. Nevertheless, the familiarity that comes from the frequent use of the marker prompts the need for the awareness of the impact of the methods on the interpretation of the assay results. Actually, PSA values obtained by different methods may vary. Differences may be of clinical relevance in some instances such as when evaluating a PSA value with reference to a given cut-off point or, mainly, when assessing any variation among serial samples from the same patient. This potential variability related to the method is due to the molecular heterogeneity of PSA as well as to the lack of standard reference material. The problem of the binding of PSA to circulating protease inhibitors is of major relevance. The occurrence of several PSA isoforms should also be taken into account. Both a strict standardization of the method and the preparation of a reference standard are expected to reduce the method-related variability. In the meantime, the same assay method should be used to monitor the same patient. Moreover, dose co-operation between the urologist and the clinical pathologist is mandatory in order to be aware of the methodological clues which eventually may affect the decision-making process.
PSA-negative tumours of the prostate
Authors: Pea M. , Sidoti O. , Caneva A. , Martignoni G. , Pecori S. , Grosso G. , Iannucci A. , Mariuzzi G.M.
Published: November 2018

The immunoperoxidase staining of normal and hyperplastic prostatic epithelium for Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) is, with few exceptions, uniform and strong. In contrast to the benign tissue, most reports of prostatic adenocarcinoma demonstrated an apparent correlation between staining-variability and increasing tumour grades. Decreased PAP staining may be related to incorrect manipulation of prostatic tissue. Finally there are many tumours and pseudotumours of the prostate in which the PSA stain is regularly negative. In the differential diagnosis of prostate tumour, both PSA and PAP (Prostatic Acid Phosphatase) stains should be performed. It is mandatory that the stains be interpreted in the appropriate histologic and clinicopathologic setting with due consideration of positive and negative staining.
Testicular neoplasms and tumoral markers
Authors: Tallarigo C. , Malossini G. , Baldassarre R. , Rahmati M. , Bianchi G. , Comunale L.
Published: November 2018

The use of tumoral markers and especially of BHCG and AFP in the diagnosis, staging and follow-up of patients affected by testicle germinai neoplasms is now widespread. Nevertheless, controversies stili exist in each one of these fields. Especially for clinical staging, high percentages of understaging of stage I tumours are reported in literature with considerable effects on therapeutical indications and prognosis. The Authors attempt a criticai review on the use of markers for diagnosis and staging of testicular neoplasms based upon their own experience of 79 cases over a 14-year period.
Renal cancer and tumoral markers: Biological features and prognostic implications
Authors: Curti P.P. , Beltrami P. , Lazzarotto M. , Bianchi G. , Comunale L. , Monaco C. , Mobilio G.
Published: November 2018

In this work we have examined the studies carried out on tumoral markers of renal carcinoma, in order to point out useful characteristics for understanding the evolution of the tumour. We have examined the cytogenetic studies, the molecular oncology, the studies of cellular proliferation and the DNA analysis, reporting our own experience on the last method. However clashing opinions stili exist on the predictive ability of these investigations. DNA analysis by cytometry seems to be the most applicable one at a clinical level.
Detubularization and/or reconfiguration
Authors: Anselmo G. , Fandella A.
Published: November 2018

Technical variants of reservoir construction can develop from in-depth knowledge of the important physiopathological implications involved in the choice of whole intestinal segments and especially the aperture and reconfiguration of the segment. The physical geometrical and physiological principles applied to clinical practice are therefore described, represented by the configuration or geometrical capacity, the accommodation, the visco-elasticity or compliance and the contractility.
Orthotopic urinary diversions. Preparation of the urethra and continence problem
Authors: Boccafoschi C. , Lozzi C. , Annoscia S.
Published: November 2018

Preparation of the urethra is a crucial surgical moment when about to carry out an orthotopic urinary diversion. Correct procedure at this stage results in an efficient residual functional urethra, necessary for guaranteeing sphincteric function in order to avoid passive incontinence (it being well-known that active incontinence, mainly at night, is instead tied to the intrinsic nature of the enteric material used for bladder replacement). The authors describe the most important surgical procedures and in particular dissection of the apex of the prostate and entero-urethral anastomosis.
Urodynamic results of orthotopic urinary diversions
Authors: Fanciullacci F. , Franzini A. , Barana L. , Viganò P.
Published: November 2018

This study gives the urodynamic and functional results of orthotopic urinary diversions, with particular reference to the Camey II, Studer and VIP, used the most in our country. Data show that function is satisfactory, especially with regard to bladder voiding and daytime continence. Nocturnal continence, however, seems to be the weak point of the procedure. The differences between the various types of orthotopic reservoirs are also analysed.
Manual and mechanical sutures in bladder substitutions
Authors: Moroni M. , Muto G. , Bardari F.
Published: November 2018

The increasing use of mechanical sutures in urological surgery has highlighted some particular problems about the behaviour of the intestinal wall around the mechanical anastomosis. The Authors report on 160 bladder substitutions performed between April 1990 and April 1994. Histological and biological evaluation of intestinal repair and epithelisation show how the newly formed mucosa covers the steel stitches, isolating them from contact with the urine, so their potency to favour stone growth is very low. The particular shape and arrangement of stitches done with the GIA stapling device ensure a stronger and better vascularised suture than one done manually. In conclusion, the use of stapling devices in urological surgery offers the advantages of time saving and accuracy and safety of the sutures.
Prostatic carcinoma: Study of C-erb B2, p53, morphological and clinical parameters in 44 radical prostatectomies
Authors: Fini M. , Di Silverio A. , Vagliani G.F. , Folicaldi S. , Nannini R. , Bondi A.
Published: November 2018

In literature it is estimated that only 20% of prostatic carcinoma are clinically important and indicators of biological aggressiveness of the neoplasm would therefore seem necessary. We considered 44 radical prostatectomies that were performed in our Division between 1989 and 1996. A histological section was selected for each patient on which the expression of C-erb B2 and p53 were tested with immunohistochemical methods. In these patients, who were homogeneous as far as surgical criteria are concerned, no subgroups with different progression were found.
Funicle-epididymal metastasis from renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Invernizzi S. , Locatelli G. , Butti A. , Cappoli S. , Librizzi A. , Pozza D. , Zuccoli E.
Published: November 2018

Metastatic neoplasms of testicular adnexa are extremely rare, particularly the ones spreading from renal cell carcinoma. The authors refer to a case of metachronous metastasis spread from kidney to funicle and para-epididymal tissue, in a 73-year-old male, who had undergone left nephrectomy for adenocarcinoma (seven months before). They review the statistics reported in literature and discuss the possible physiopathology of the way of spreading (in this case left varicocele was associated). Ultrasonography diagnosis of left testis tumour was confirmed by histological test after inguinal orchifunicolectomy.
Bladder neck preservation versus bladder neck excision during radical retropubic prostatectomy: Clinical results
Authors: Muto G. , Bardari F. , Piras D. , Leggero R.
Published: November 2018

We evaluated recovery of urinary continence and incidence of vesical neck contractures following radical retropubic prostatectomy in a series of 120 patients with clinical stage A-B-C prostate cancer. 58 patients (group A) underwent radical retropubic prostatectomy with bladder neck preservation and 62 patients (group B) with bladder neck excision and reconstruction. In group A there were no anastomotic strictures and in group B, 6.4%. In the first group we noticed an earlier return of continence, but there were no statistically significant differences in urinary continence between the two groups. Bladder neck preservation does not compromise cancer control as assessed by local or PSA-only failure rates.
Efficacy of visual laser ablation of the prostate (VLAP) in patients with BPH
Authors: Barbieri A. , Monica B. , Zivieri M. , Incarbone G.P. , Pozzoli G.L. , Peracchia G.
Published: November 2018

From November 1992 to the present, 50 patients, most of whom suffering from severe cardiovascular, respiratory, neurological or hemocoagulative disorders, underwent laser prostatic ablation (VLAP) with Nd:YAG laser. Clinical and uroflowmetric follow-up at 6 weeks, 3 and 6 months showed significant improvement with low morbidity. We believe that VLAP is an alternative to TURP in patients with BPH. A better definition of techniques and overcoming the restrictions due to the learning curve could lead to even better results in the future.
Ureteral calculosis: ESWL in situ and after preliminary manoeuvres
Authors: Zanetti G. , Ostini F. , Nespoli R. , Rovera F. , Guarneri A. , Russo R.
Published: November 2018

Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy is nowadays first choice treatment of ureteral stones. Shock wave generator technology has greatly advanced since the first electrohydraulic lithotriptor was introduced. Third generation lithotriptors combine all these advantages and integrate them into a multi-functional X-ray system. From January 1996 to June 1996, 63 patients (43 male and 20 female) suffering from ureteral calculosis were treated. Stone localisation was in 35 cases (55%) the lumbar ureter, in 3 (5%) the iliac ureter and in 25 (40%) the pelvic ureter. A Storz Modulith SLX lithotriptor with an electromagnetic cylindrical source was used. Easy positioning of the patient and dry coupling make treatment procedures simple. Furthermore, general anesthesia is not required and analgesic sedation (Fentanest and Diazepam) is often unnecessary, especially in ureteral stones.
“Steinstrasse” or stone street after extracorporeal lithotripsy
Authors: Merlo F.
Published: November 2018

The aim of this work has been to check the frequency and to assess which manoeuvres are necessary in treating the steinstrasse after ESWL in situ. From September 1989 to May 1996, 2400 patients were treated with extracorporeal lithotripsy, 86 (3.6%) developed a steinstrasse in the days immediately after treatment. Only 40% of cases had specific urinary obstruction symptoms. In 52 patients (60%) the steinstrasse was spontaneously eliminated within 4 weeks, while in the remaining 34 an auxiliary treatment was necessary (second ESWL, percutaneous nephrostomy, ureteroscopic management). These therapies required further hospital admittance but didn't cause statistically significant differences in the stone-free rate at 6 months (96% and 97%, p < 0.001). Our experience would indicate that the incidence of steinstrasse after ESWL in situ is quite low (3.6%) and the necessity for auxiliary treatment is extremely rare (1.4%).
Prognostic significance of nuclear DNA analysis by flow cytometry in the progression of superficial bladder cancer
Authors: De Siati M. , Grassi D. , Lazzarotto M. , Franzolin N. , Saugo M. , Azzolina L.S. , Mantovani T.
Published: November 2018

The authors used nuclear DNA analysis to evaluate 142 patients with bladder tumours in stage Ta, T1. During follow-up, only the T1G2-G3 forms progressed. Tumour stage and DNA Index (DI) > 1.25 were strongly correlated to tumour invasiveness. According to these data, patients with tumours in the T1 stage and Dl>1.25 should undergo closer follow-up.
Interstitial cystitis: Surgical therapy
Authors: Milani C. , Tavolini I.M. , Ferraro M. , Iafrate M. , Bassi P.F. , Maio G. , Dal Bianco M. , Oliva G. , Glazel G. Passerini
Published: November 2018

Between May 1982 and June 1996 at the Department of Urology of Padua University, 13 patients (12 women and 1 man) underwent augmentation/substitution cystoplasty for interstitial cystitis (CI) refractory to conservative management. Median bladder capacity was 70 ml (less than 400 ml under anesthesia in all cases). Two patients underwent subtotal cystectomy and substitution cystoplasty using sigmoid segment; in 7 patients a supratrigonal cystectomy and substitution cystoplasty with sigma (2 cases) and ileum (5 cases) was performed; in 4 patients simple bladder augmentation after large longitudinal bladder incision was performed. Mean post-operative follow-up was 84 months (range 4-173). Post operative median spontaneous bladder capacity was 290 ml and a subjective and objective good result was obtained in 10 out of 13 patients. Four patients had 5 post operative complications: one stenosis of the sigmoido-vesical junction, one ileal segment retraction, one septic temporary acute renal failure, two persistent complete urinary retention. The first two cases needed reoperation and the last two clean intermittent self-catheterization. Supratrigonal cystectomy with substitution enterocystoplasty, using detubularized/configured bowel segment, is the best surgical option in patients with CI with decreased bladder capacity and pain correlated to bladder filling. Post-operative clean intermittent self-catheterization must always be considered during preoperative evaluation.