bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Inner Regions of Disk Galaxies: A Constant Baryonic Fraction?
Authors: Lelli Federico
Published: July 2014

For disk galaxies (spirals and irregulars), the inner circular-velocity gradient dRV0 (inner steepness of the rotation curve) correlates with the central surface brightness ∑*,0 with a slope of ~0.5. This implies that the central dynamical mass density scales almost linearly with the central baryonic density. Here I show that this empirical relation is consistent with a simple model where the central baryonic fraction ƒbar,0 is fixed to 1 (no dark matter) and the observed scatter is due to differences in the baryonic mass-to-light ratio Mbar / LR (ranging from 1 to 3 in the R-band) and in the characteristic thickness of the central stellar component Δz (ranging from 100 to 500 pc). Models with lower baryonic fractions are possible, although they require some fine-tuning in the values of Mbar/LR and Δz. Regardless of the actual value of ƒbar,0, the fact that different types of galaxies do not show strong variations in ƒbar,0 is surprising, and may represent a challenge for models of galaxy formation in a Λ Cold Dark Matter (ΛCDM) cosmology.
Facile, Regio- and Diastereoselective Synthesis of Spiro-Pyrrolidine and Pyrrolizine Derivatives and Evaluation of Their Antiproliferative Activities
Authors: Almansour Abdulrahman , Kumar Raju , Beevi Farzana , Shirazi Amir , Osman Hasnah , Ismail Rusli , Choon Tan , Sullivan Brian , McCaffrey Kellen , Nahhas Alaa , Parang Keykavous , Ali Mohamed
Published: July 2014

A number of novel spiro-pyrrolidines/pyrrolizines derivatives were synthesized through [3+2]-cycloaddition of azomethine ylides with 3,5-bis[(E)-arylmethylidene]tetrahydro-4(1H)-pyridinones 2a–n. Azomethine ylides were generated in situ from the reaction of 1H-indole-2,3-dione (isatin, 3) with N-methylglycine (sarcosine), phenylglycine, or proline. All compounds (50 μM) were evaluated for their antiproliferative activity against human breast carcinoma (MDA-MB-231), leukemia lymphoblastic (CCRF-CEM), and ovarian carcinoma (SK-OV-3) cells. N-α-Phenyl substituted spiro-pyrrolidine derivatives (5a–n) showed higher antiproliferative activity in MDA-MB-231 than other cancer cell lines. Among spiro-pyrrolizines 6a–n, a number of derivatives including 6a–c and 6i–m showed a comparable activity with doxorubicin in all three cell lines. Among all compounds in three classes, 6a, 6b, and 6m, were found to be the most potent derivatives showing 64%, 87%, and 74% antiproliferative activity in MDA-MB-231, SK-OV-3, and CCRF-CEM cells, respectively. Compound 6b showed an IC50 value of 3.6 mM in CCRF-CEM cells. These data suggest the potential antiproliferative activity of spiro-pyrrolidines/pyrrolizines.
Lycodine-Type Alkaloids from Lycopodiastrum casuarinoides and Their Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitory Activity
Authors: Zhang Dong-Bo , Chen Jian-Jun , Song Qiu-Yan , Zhang Li , Gao Kun
Published: July 2014

Four new lycodine-type alkaloids, namely 16-hydroxyhuperzine B (1), N-methyl-11-acetoxyhuperzine B (2), 8,15-dihydrolycoparin A (3) and (7S,12S,13R)-huperzine D-16-O-β-d-glucopyranoside (4), along with ten known analogues 5−14, were isolated from the whole plant of Lycopodiastrum casuarinoides. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated by means of spectroscopic techniques (IR, MS, NMR, and CD) and chemical methods. Compounds 1 and 2 possessed four connected six-membered rings, while compounds 3 and 4 were piperidine ring cleavage products. In particular, compound 4 was a lycopodium alkaloidal glycoside which is reported for the first time. Among the isolated compounds N-demethylhuperzinine (7), huperzine C (8), huperzine B (9) and lycoparin C (13) possessed significant inhibitory activity against acetylcholinesterase, and the new compound 1 showed moderate inhibitory activity. The structure activity relationships were discussed.
Embedded Strain Gauges for Condition Monitoring of Silicone Gaskets
Authors: Schotzko Timo , Lang Walter
Published: July 2014

A miniaturized strain gauge with a thickness of 5 µm is molded into a silicone O-ring. This is a first step toward embedding sensors in gaskets for structural health monitoring. The signal of the integrated sensor exhibits a linear correlation with the contact pressure of the O-ring. This affords the opportunity to monitor the gasket condition during installation. Thus, damages caused by faulty assembly can be detected instantly, and early failures, with their associated consequences, can be prevented. Through the embedded strain gauge, the contact pressure applied to the gasket can be directly measured. Excessive pressure and incorrect positioning of the gasket can cause structural damage to the material of the gasket, which can lead to an early outage. A platinum strain gauge is fabricated on a thin polyimide layer and is contacted through gold connections. The measured resistance pressure response exhibits hysteresis for the first few strain cycles, followed by a linear behavior. The short-term impact of the embedded sensor on the stability of the gasket is investigated. Pull-tests with O-rings and test specimens have indicated that the integration of the miniaturized sensors has no negative impact on the stability in the short term.
The search for new amphiphiles: synthesis of a modular, high-throughput library
Authors: Feast George C , Lepitre Thomas , Mulet Xavier , Conn Charlotte E , Hutt Oliver E , Savage G Paul , Drummond Calum J
Published: July 2014

Amphiphilic compounds are used in a variety of applications due to their lyotropic liquid-crystalline phase formation, however only a limited number of compounds, in a potentially limitless field, are currently in use. A library of organic amphiphilic compounds was synthesised consisting of glucose, galactose, lactose, xylose and mannose head groups and double and triple-chain hydrophobic tails. A modular, high-throughput approach was developed, whereby head and tail components were conjugated using the copper-catalysed azide–alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) reaction. The tails were synthesised from two core alkyne-tethered intermediates, which were subsequently functionalised with hydrocarbon chains varying in length and degree of unsaturation and branching, while the five sugar head groups were selected with ranging substitution patterns and anomeric linkages. A library of 80 amphiphiles was subsequently produced, using a 24-vial array, with the majority formed in very good to excellent yields. A preliminary assessment of the liquid-crystalline phase behaviour is also presented.
RISK ASSESSMENT IN NON-STANDARD FORMS OF CIVIL ENGINEERING CONSULTING SERVICES
Authors: Piyadasa WM Sarath C , Hadikusumo Bonaventura H. W.
Published: July 2014

Although a large body of research exists on risk assessment in civil engineering projects and of owners, contractors, concessionaires and financiers of such projects, there is a lacuna in such research on engineering consultants, particularly those associated with non-standard forms of consulting services. This paper seeks to explore the genesis of the underlying risks in non-standard forms of engineering consulting services, systematically classify the risks, and develop a Risk Breakdown Structure and a generic Framework for efficient assessment of these risks, which is a prerequisite for sound risk management in the engineering consulting industry. The research adopts a mixed method approach, synthesising exploratory type multiple-case studies and questionnaire surveys, carried out in 14 engineering consulting firms having extensive experience in the delivery of non-standard consulting services. This paper provides empirical insights of the genetic makeup of risks associated with non-standard forms of consulting services. Such risks are found to be predominantly linked to design office based activities that underline the importance of design function in engineering consulting practice. Loss of reputation and/or goodwill is rated as the most severe potential impact on consultants. Proposed Risk Assessment Framework provides the engineering consulting industry with a functional tool for efficient risk management.
RAILWAY CONDITION-BASED MAINTENANCE MODEL WITH STOCHASTIC DETERIORATION
Authors: Vale Cecília , Ribeiro Isabel M.
Published: July 2014

The application of mathematical programming for scheduling preventive maintenance in railways is relatively new. This paper presents a stochastic mathematical model designed to optimize and to predict tamping operations in ballasted tracks as preventive condition-based maintenance. The model is formulated as a mixed 0–1 nonlinear program that considers real technical aspects as constraints: the reduction of the geometrical track quality over time is characterized by the deterioration rate of the standard deviation of the longitudinal level; the track layout; the dependency of the track recovery on its quality at the moment of the maintenance operation; the limits for preventive maintenance that depend on the maximum permissible train speed. In the model application, a railway stretch with 51.2 km of length is analysed for a time period of five years. The deterioration model is stochastic and represents the reduction of the standard deviation of the longitudinal level over time. The deterioration rate of the standard deviation of the longitudinal level is simulated by Monte Carlo techniques, considering the three parameters Dagum probabilistic distribution fitted with real data (Vale, Simões 2012). Two simulations are performed and compared: stochastic simulation in space; stochastic simulation in space and time. The proposed condition-based maintenance model is able to produce optimal schedules within appropriate computational times.
The Use of Social Network Sites to Market E-Government to Citizens
Authors: Molina María de Miguel , Soler Carlos Ripoll
Published: July 2014

In this chapter, the authors explore the different literature that analyses the application of Social Network Sites (SNSs) in e-government to help government managers to improve citizens' communication and participation. The use of Web 2.0 tools is perceived as a new way of communication not only in the political arena but also on the government level to improve civic engagement, to coproduce public services, and to increase service personalization. Citizens still like traditional communication tools, and it is important not to overload them through SNSs. The authors show possible new trends for future analysis on the application of SNSs.
E-Governance Preparedness of Public Bureaucracy in Bangladesh
Authors: Rokon-Ul-Hasan Md. , Monem Mobasser
Published: July 2014

In Bangladesh, there is an undeniable wave of awareness about e-governance at present. Therefore, it is high time that government prepare itself in terms of implementing e-governance in order to cope with the requirements of the fast changing global environment. As bureaucracy is one of the most vital pillars of government, it is imperative that it is well prepared to face the upcoming challenges of technological boost. This chapter assesses the preparedness level of bureaucracy from the perspective of e-governance implementation. Analysis of primary data reveals that the frequency of computer and Internet usage for official activities is also very low. Most of the officials do not have any formal ICT training, and those who have such training have covered only very elementary aspects. The overall readiness in terms of technical skills is found to be unsatisfactory. Existing laws, rules, and regulations are found to be very insufficient for smooth implementation of e-governance in Bangladesh.
Beyond the Digital Divide
Authors: Baasanjav Undrah Buyan
Published: July 2014

This chapter explores the interplay between society and Internet technology in the context of the developing former socialist country of Mongolia. This chapter goes beyond questions of access to the Internet and explores three factors of the global digital divide. First, this chapter explores how language factors such as non-Roman domain names and the use of the Cyrillic alphabet exacerbate the digital divide in the impoverished country of Mongolia. ICANN's initiation of international domain names is an initial development toward achieving linguistic diversity on the Internet. Second, this chapter explores how post-communist settings and foreign investment and aid dependency afflict Internet development. A rapid economic growth in Mongolia has increased access to mobile phones, computers, and the Internet; however, the influx of foreign capital poured into the mining, construction, and telecommunication sectors frequently comes in non-concessional terms raising concerns over the public debt in Mongolia.
E-Government in the OECD
Authors: Warf Barney
Published: July 2014

The literature on electronic government (e-government) often assumes that there exists one suitable model that can be adopted in all contexts. This chapter emphasizes the constitutive role of political and institutional context in the design, implementation, and impacts of e-government initiatives, the understanding of which require a geographically-specific analysis. It begins with a summary of various styles of e-government, including differing models and stages of implementation. Second, it offers empirical synopses of how e-government varies among and within OECD countries, emphasizing that the impacts are always culturally and politically mediated. Third, it points to the role of the digital divide in shaping citizen access to e-government, re-enforcing existing social inequalities and enhancing the access of already information-privileged groups to the levers of state power.
Australia.gov.au
Authors: Baum Scott
Published: July 2014

Australia.gov.au is the Australian Federal Government's online portal for information exchange, sharing and interaction between those who govern and the governed. Over the past decade, the Australian government has actively developed and re-developed its online presence. International comparisons have consistently rated Australia as one of the most advanced e-government nations. However, despite significant progress towards full e-government maturity, some issues of full public participation remain. It is these issues that this chapter discusses. In particular, it considers the ways in which a digital divide within the Australian context model has emerged and what it means for the issue of social inclusion.
Strategies for Digital Inclusion
Authors: Bhatnagar Subhash
Published: July 2014

Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) can be used in diverse applications to accelerate information dissemination to improve efficiency of public services, to increase the transparency and accountability of government administration, to reduce corruption, and to facilitate citizen participation in local governance. Given the fact that few ICT projects in rural areas have scaled up, it seems that the full potential of ICT as an enabler of development is yet to be tapped. This chapter analyzes two projects from India that have overcome these challenges and have scaled up. In moving forward on digital inclusion so far, the focus has been on creating equitable access to Internet and other technologies. Adequate effort has not gone into understanding the context in which these technologies can deliver value by alleviating key problems of development in rural areas. A paradigm shift is needed. Instead of developing a technology and then looking for a context where it can be used, it would be more effective to understand the problems of the poor and identify what technology innovations can help solve any part of the problem. Invariably, technology will not be enough; other components will need to be put together to create a development. Mobile-based delivery, which can overcome some of these constraints, needs to be explored in a major way. In addition, new content useful for rural populations needs to be made available in the public domain.
Social Inclusion and the Digital Divide
Authors: Kim Seang-Tae
Published: July 2014

It is becoming more important to better utilize various resources as digital convergence and informatization progresses. Therefore, it is a necessity to show the qualitative differences regarding digital divide, and relevant policies and efforts need to be strengthened to narrow the digital divide. In this regard, the overall improvement of information literacy of the public is required as it can increase the convenience in citizens' everyday lives and can create added value. It is, therefore, necessary to continue the development of policies and projects to narrow the digital divide. The Korean government plans to keep strengthening its support with policies to legislate regulations that narrow the digital divide and provide fair opportunities to access information and to improve information literacy. The efforts to narrow the digital divide and effective policies to achieve the goal must be continued to relieve social conflict and integrate the society. This is explored in this chapter.
HASTA
Authors: Wang Shuliang , Chen Yasen
Published: July 2014

In this paper, a novel clustering algorithm, HASTA (HierArchical-grid cluStering based on daTA field), is proposed to model the dataset as a data field by assigning all the data objects into qusantized grids. Clustering centers of HASTA are defined to locate where the maximum value of local potential is. Edges of cluster in HASTA are identified by analyzing the first-order partial derivative of potential value, thus the full size of arbitrary shaped clusters can be detected. The experimented case demonstrates that HASTA performs effectively upon different datasets and can find out clusters of arbitrary shapes in noisy circumstance. Besides those, HASTA does not force users to preset the exact amount of clusters inside dataset. Furthermore, HASTA is insensitive to the order of data input. The time complexity of HASTA achieves O(n). Those advantages will potentially benefit the mining of big data.
Socio-Psychological Dimensions of Mobile Phone Addiction and Usage Patterns amongst Teenagers in Higher Institutions of Learning in Kwara State
Authors: Titilope Afolayan Oluyinka
Published: July 2014

Mobile phone addiction is now a common phenomenon in the 21st century, especially among teenagers due to the unusual cravings in the use of technological devices. In view of this phenomenon, the study examined the socio-psychological dimensions of mobile phone addiction and usage patterns amongst teenagers in three Higher Institutions of Learning in Kwara State, Nigeria. Descriptive and inferential statistical tools were utilized to analyze data collected on a sample size of 321 undergraduate teenage students whose selection were based on simple random sampling technique across three Higher Institutions of Learning which were the University of Ilorin, Kwara state University, and Al-Hikmah University respectively. Findings from the data analyses revealed uniformity in the usage patterns of teenagers in the use of their mobile devices. Significant positive relationships were also established between mobile addiction and socio-psychological dimensions such as loneliness, boredom, egoism, and self-independence at varying significant levels.
A System Dynamics Model for a Sustainable Fish Population
Authors: Rahman Nayem
Published: July 2014

To visualize or address complex real world problems, eliciting and mapping of a mental model is reasonable approach but it is far from sufficient by itself. In this article we present a system dynamics model. The purpose of the model is to develop a sustainable model for fish population, growth, and harvesting. The model was run through several important tests to determine its sensitivity to changing in key parameters and initial values with different scenarios and boundary conditions. Model results show that fish birth, growth, stocks and catch can be controlled quickly in different real-world changing conditions to maintain a sustainable fish population.
Social Media Tools Adoption and Use by SMES
Authors: Wamba Samuel Fosso , Carter Lemuria
Published: July 2014

Despite the recent increase in the adoption and use of social media tools to support firm operations, very little empirical research focusing on small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) has been conducted to-date. The aim of this study is to fill this knowledge gap by investigating SME adoption of social media tools. In particular, we assess the impact of organizational, manager and environmental characteristics on SME utilization of the Facebook Events Page. To test our proposed research model, we administered a survey to 453 SME managers. Results of a hierarchical logistic regression indicate that firm innovativeness, firm size, manager's age and industry sector all have a significant impact on social media adoption. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
Investigating the Motives of Customers' Continuance Intentions towards Online Reservation
Authors: Mouakket Samar
Published: July 2014

Despite the growth in online reservation in recent years, research surrounding customer continuance intentions regarding this service remains insufficient. This research attempts to fill this gap by integrating the e-service quality model with the expectation–confirmation model (ECM) to measure continuance intentions regarding online reservation. Data was collected from a survey of users who have prior online reservation experience at two universities in the United Arab Emirates. Statistical analysis was performed to test the relationships among the different research variables using structural equation modeling (SEM). The results show that all the e-service quality dimensions proposed in this study significantly affect utilitarian value, with the exception of e-service quality related to responsiveness. Furthermore, utilitarian values positively influence hedonic values and both utilitarian and hedonic values have a positive influence on satisfaction. Finally both subjective norms and satisfaction are significantly associated with continuance intentions regarding online reservation. Implications of the study and directions for future research are provided.
Repression of Arginase-2 Expression in Dendritic Cells by MicroRNA-155 Is Critical for Promoting T Cell Proliferation
Authors: Dunand-Sauthier Isabelle , Irla Magali , Carnesecchi Stéphanie , Seguín-Estévez Queralt , Vejnar Charles E. , Zdobnov Evgeny M. , Santiago-Raber Marie-Laure , Reith Walter
Published: July 2014

Arginine, a semiessential amino acid implicated in diverse cellular processes, is a substrate for two arginases—Arg1 and Arg2—having different expression patterns and functions. Although appropriately regulated Arg1 expression is critical for immune responses, this has not been documented for Arg2. We show that Arg2 is the dominant enzyme in dendritic cells (DCs) and is repressed by microRNA-155 (miR155) during their maturation. miR155 is known to be strongly induced in various mouse and human DC subsets in response to diverse maturation signals, and miR155-deficient DCs exhibit an impaired ability to induce Ag-specific T cell responses. By means of expression profiling studies, we identified Arg2 mRNA as a novel miR155 target in mouse DCs. Abnormally elevated levels of Arg2 expression and activity were observed in activated miR155-deficient DCs. Conversely, overexpression of miR155 inhibited Arg2 expression. Bioinformatic and functional analyses confirmed that Arg2 mRNA is a direct target of miR155. Finally, in vitro and in vivo functional assays using DCs exhibiting deregulated Arg2 expression indicated that Arg2-mediated arginine depletion in the extracellular milieu impairs T cell proliferation. These results indicate that miR155-induced repression of Arg2 expression is critical for the ability of DCs to drive T cell activation by controlling arginine availability in the extracellular environment.
Human XCR1+ Dendritic Cells Derived In Vitro from CD34+ Progenitors Closely Resemble Blood Dendritic Cells, Including Their Adjuvant Responsiveness, Contrary to Monocyte-Derived Dendritic Cells
Authors: Balan Sreekumar , Ollion Vincent , Colletti Nicholas , Chelbi Rabie , Montanana-Sanchis Frédéric , Liu Hong , Vu Manh Thien-Phong , Sanchez Cindy , Savoret Juliette , Perrot Ivan , Doffin Anne-Claire , Fossum Even , Bechlian Didier , Chabannon Christian , Bogen Bjarne , Asselin-Paturel Carine , Shaw Michael , Soos Timothy , Caux Christophe , Valladeau-Guilemond Jenny , Dalod Marc
Published: July 2014

Human monocyte-derived dendritic cell (MoDC) have been used in the clinic with moderately encouraging results. Mouse XCR1+ DC excel at cross-presentation, can be targeted in vivo to induce protective immunity, and share characteristics with XCR1+ human DC. Assessment of the immunoactivation potential of XCR1+ human DC is hindered by their paucity in vivo and by their lack of a well-defined in vitro counterpart. We report in this study a protocol generating both XCR1+ and XCR1− human DC in CD34+ progenitor cultures (CD34-DC). Gene expression profiling, phenotypic characterization, and functional studies demonstrated that XCR1− CD34-DC are similar to canonical MoDC, whereas XCR1+ CD34-DC resemble XCR1+ blood DC (bDC). XCR1+ DC were strongly activated by polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid but not LPS, and conversely for MoDC. XCR1+ DC and MoDC expressed strikingly different patterns of molecules involved in inflammation and in cross-talk with NK or T cells. XCR1+ CD34-DC but not MoDC efficiently cross-presented a cell-associated Ag upon stimulation by polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid or R848, likewise to what was reported for XCR1+ bDC. Hence, it is feasible to generate high numbers of bona fide XCR1+ human DC in vitro as a model to decipher the functions of XCR1+ bDC and as a potential source of XCR1+ DC for clinical use.
Management of bladder stones associated with foreign bodies following incontinence and contraception surgery
Authors: Simsek Abdulmuttalip , Ozgor Faruk , Akbulut Mehmet Fatih , Sönmezay Erkan , Yuksel Bahar , Sarılar Omer , Berberoglu Ahmet Yalcın , Gurbuz Zafer Gokhan
Published: July 2014

Aim of the study: To investigate success of endoscopic lithotripsy for bladder stone following stress urinary incontinance surgery and contraception surgery. Materials and methods: Charts of patients admitted in two centers between January 2006 and March 2013 were retrospectively reviewed and seven women were enrolled in our study. Patients demographic parameters including age, main complaint(s), previous surgery type, time to diagnosis were analyzed. Also operative time, hospitalisation lenght, perioperative and postoperative complication( s) were evaluated. Results: Five patients had undergone tension free vaginal tape procedure and one patient had undergone transobturator tape procedure. Median age was 62 (50-71) years. In one patient bladder stone formed around an intrauterine device. Dysuria (85%), hematuria (57%) and recurrent urinary tract infection (57%) were the main complaints. The median diagnosis time was 44.1 months. Abdominal ultrasonography and non contrast enhanced computer tomography were performed for five and two patients respectively and diagnosis was confirmed cystoscopically. Endoscopic lithotripsy using Holmium laser lithotripter or pneumatic lithotripter was used for all cases. The mean operation time was 41.2 minutes (20-70) and success was 100%. There was no intraoperative complication. Only one patient had fever higher than 38ºC postoperatively and was treated by appropriate antibiotic. The median hospitalisation time was 1.57 day. Conclusion: In conclusion endoscopic lithotripsy is a safe and effective approach to manage bladder stone associated with mid-urethral synthetic slings and intrauterine devices.
Pseudo-capsule “coffin effect”: How to prevent penile retraction after implant of three-piece inflatable prosthesis
Authors: Caraceni Enrico , Utizi Lilia , Angelozzi Giovanni
Published: July 2014

Objective: Following three-component implantation of a penile prosthesis, some patients are dissatisfied with their penile length. This may be due to the procedure by itself or pre-existing risk factors or psychological reasons. We supposed that formation of a restricted pseudo-capsule due to a late prosthesis activation can inhibit later system expansion. We aimed to identify the presence or absence of penile retraction after implant and to prevent it by immediate prosthesis activation after implantation. Material and methods. Forty-six patients operated with three-piece inflatable penile prosthesis (AMS 700 CX o LGX) were enrolled. In 27 patients prosthesis was first activated four weeks after surgery (NEA group) and in 19 patients prosthesis was activated immediately after surgery (DEA group). Length and girth of the penis was evaluated before (in DEA group) and after the surgical procedure. Results. The average post implant dorsal length of the erect penis in group NEA was found 3.28 cm shorter than in group with early activation (DEA). In DEA group there was no lenght difference between pre-operative stretching (14.57 cm) and post operative erection (14.98 cm). When early activation was not performed, the clinical result was a smaller penis in erect phase. Conclusion. Reduced lenght of the penis after implantation can be caused by the presence of a pseudo-capsule that limits the elongation of the prosthesis and of the penis (“coffin effect”). Timing of first activation seems to be the key in order to prevent the risk of penile retraction after implantation. Early activation is identified as the best measure to maintain the length of the pre implant erect penis after the prosthetic hydraulic implant.
A case report of urethral prolapse in a 38 year old female with 46XY karyotype
Authors: Watson Helena , Stasiowska Ewa
Published: July 2014

A 38-year old female presented with the acute onset of a vulval mass associated with pain and vaginal bleeding. She is female phenotype but has 46XY karyotype and Complete Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (CAIS). At 15 years old she had a laparotomy and bilateral orchidectomy. Following admission, an examination under anaesthesia and cystoscopy was performed. A diagnosis of strangulated complete urethral prolapse was made. The lesion was excised with diathermy and the meatal skin was reanastomosed to the urethra. At follow-up, the urethra was well healed. The patient now attends Menopause Clinic for oestrogen-replacement therapy. We hope this case raises awareness of the possibility of urethral prolapse in younger women who are oestrogen deficient. It provides further incentive for compliance with hormone replacement therapy for patients with CAIS following gonadectomy, or other women with premature menopause.
A case with primary signet ring cell adenocarcinoma of the prostate and review of the literature
Authors: Celik Orcun , Budak Salih , Ekin Gokhan , Akarken Ilker , Ilbey Yusuf Ozlem
Published: July 2014

Primary signet cell carcinoma of the prostate is a rare histological variant of prostate malignancies. It is commonly originated from the stomach, colon, pancreas, and less commonly in the bladder. Prognosis of the classical type is worse than the adenocarcinoma of the prostate. Primary signet cell adenocarcinoma is diagnosed by eliminating the adenocarcinomas of other organs such as gastrointestinal tract organs. In this case report, we present a case with primary signet cell adenocarcinoma of the prostate who received docetaxel chemotherapy because of short prostate specific antigen doubling time.
Rare type of bladder cancer: Malign fibrous histiocytoma
Authors: Celik Orcun , Turk Hakan , Budak Salih , Ilbey Yusuf Ozlem
Published: July 2014

Malignant fibrous histocytoma (MFH) is the most common soft tissue sarcoma in adults. Urinary tract is a very rare location for MFH. Involvement of the bladder is more common in males and at the 6th decade of life. A case of MFH of the bladder with poor prognosis is presented. Prognostic factors for MFH are tumor grade, amount of invasion, age, tumor size, and histological type. Survival rate is very low and 3-year disease specific survival is approximately 40%.
Evaluation of various active surveillance protocols in prostate cancer
Authors: Yılmaz Kayhan , Karadeniz Tahir , Özkaptan Orkunt , Yilanoglu Oguz
Published: July 2014

Objective: This study aims to investigate whether pathology results obtained by radical retropubic prostatectomy (RRP) were correlated with active surveillance (AS) criteria defined by Klotz, Soloway and D’Amico. Materials and Methods: In our clinic we evaluated 211 patients with diagnosis of localized prostate cancer who underwent RRP between 2007 and 2012. AS criteria defined by Soloway (cT ≤ T2, PSA ≤ 15 ng/dl, Gleason ≤ 6), Klotz (cT1c-T2a; if age ≥ 70 PSA ≤ 15 ng/dl, if age < 70 PSA ≤ 10 ng/dl; if age ≥ 70 Gleason ≤ 7(3+4), if age < 70 Gleason ≤ 6) and D’Amico (cT1c-T2a, PSA ≤ 10 ng/dl, Gleason ≤ 6) were used in our study. Pathological stages and Gleason scores were evaluated with coherence to AS protocols, mis-staging rates, biochemical recurrence (BC) of the mis-staged patients and death due to prostate cancer Data was analyzed using NCSS 2007 & PASS 2008 Statistical Software (Utah, USA). Chi square test and Mann-Whitney U test were applied for analyzing qualitative data. Significance was determined as p < 0.05. Results: 137 (64.9%) patients were coherent with Soloway AS criteria, 118 (55.9%) with Klotz AS criteria and 108 (51.1%) with D’Amico AS criteria. Histopathological results of the patients grouped according to Soloway, Klotz and D’Amico AS protocols showed high stage prostate cancer in 40 (29.2%), 32 (27%) and 27 (24.9%) patients, respectively. High grade prostate cancer rates in Soloway, Klotz, D’Amico groups were 55 (40.2%), 46 (38%) and 39 (36.1%); respectively. Misstaging rates of Soloway, Klotz and D’Amico AS protocols were determined as 65 (47.4%), 54 (45.5%) and 46 (42.5%), respectively. In the Soloway group BC rate was 21.9% in those with high stages. Relation between BC and high stage was found to be statistically significant (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Misstaging rates were relatively high in the three groups and there was no difference between the three groups in BC rates. Randomized studies with adequate follow up are needed.
Musculoskeletal disorders among robotic surgeons: A questionnaire analysis
Authors: Giberti Claudio , Gallo Fabrizio , Francini Luca , Signori Alessio , Testa Marco
Published: July 2014

Objective: Robotic surgical systems offer better workplace in order to relieve surgeons from prolonged physical efforts and improve their surgical outcomes. However, robotic surgery could produce musculoskeletal disorders due to the prolonged sitting position of the operator, the fixed position of the console viewer and the movements of the limbs. Until today, no one study has been reported concerning the association between robotics and musculoskeletal pain. The aim of this work was verify the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among Italian robotic surgeons. Material and methods: Between July 2011 and April 2012 a modified Standardized Nordic Questionnaire was delivered to thirty-nine Italian robotic centres. Twentytwo surgeons (56%) returned the questionnaires but only seventeen questionnaires (43.5%) were evaluable. Results: Seven surgeons (41.2%) reported musculoskeletal disorders, by since their first use of the robot which significantly persisted during the daily surgical activity (P < 0.001). Regarding the body parts affected, musculoskeletal disorders were mainly reported in the cervical spine (29.4%) and in the upper limbs (23.5%). Six surgeons (35.3%) defined the robotic console as less comfortable or neither comfortable/uncomfortable with a negative influence on their surgical procedures. Conclusions: In spite of some important limitations, our data showed musculoskeletal disorders due to posture discomfort with negative impact on daily surgical activity among robotic surgeons. These aspects could be due to the lack of ergonomic seat and to the fixed position of the console viewer which could have produced an inadequate spinal posture. The evaluation of these postural factors, in particular the development of an integrated and more ergonomic chair, could further improve the comfort feeling of the surgeon at the console and probably his surgical outcomes.
Urolithiasis in Italy: An epidemiological study
Authors: Prezioso Domenico , Illiano Ester , Piccinocchi Gaetano , Cricelli Claudio , Piccinocchi Roberto , Saita Alberto , Micheli Carla , Trinchieri Alberto
Published: July 2014

Objectives: Worldwide the urolithiasis is the third most frequent urological disease affecting both males and females. In literature there are not recent Italian epidemiological data about stone disease. The objective of this study is the evaluation of current epidemiology of urolithiasis in Italy using the Health Search/CSD Longitudinal Patient Database (HS) database. Material and methods: An observational, descriptive, retrospective trial was conducted. Inclusion criteria were: family physician- assisted Italian living population member of HS database within 31 December 2012, both genders, age over 17 years, at least two years of clinical history recorded from the beginning the trial. Data were collected by HS database and elaborated by its software Millewin®. Results: In Italy prevalence of urolithiasis in 2012 was 4.14%, it was higher in males than in females (4.53% versus 3.78%) with a positive relation with increasing age. The highest prevalence rate of urolithiasis was reported in the region Campania (6.08%). The general incidence was 2.23 *1000, with the highest incidence in the region Sicilia (3.15 *1000). Incidence was higher in group age 65-74 years (3.18 *1000). Conclusions: In Italy the incidence and prevalence of urolithiasis is increasing with particular distribution in relation to gender, age and regional position.
Displaced Intra-articular Calcaneal Fractures: Current Concepts and Modern Management
Authors: Volpin Gershon , Cohen Zvi , Kirshner Genadi , Shtarker Haim
Published: July 2014

The calcaneal fractures are usually the result of high-energy injuries, falls from height and road traffic accidents and constitutes about 2% of all fractures. 60 to 75% of them are displaced intra-articular fractures and 90% of them are usually in males, mainly in industrial workers.there is still controversy regarding classification and treatment. The purpose of this review is to present the modern surgical modalities for these type of fractures.

How to cite this article

Volpin G, Cohen Z, Kirshner G, Shtarker H. Displaced Intra-articular Calcaneal Fractures: Current Concepts and Modern Management. J Foot Ankle Surg (Asia-Pacific) 2014;1(1):24-31.
An improved retrieval of tropospheric NO2 from space over polluted regions using an earthshine reference
Authors: Anand J. S. , Monks P. S. , Leigh R. J.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. A novel tropospheric NO2 DOAS retrieval algorithm optimised for a nadir-viewing satellite instrument imaging polluted areas is proposed in this work. Current satellite DOAS retrievals have relied on using a solar reference spectrum to derive a total slant column, then using either model assimilation or spatial filtering to derive the tropospheric component. In the ESrs-DOAS (EarthShine reference sector DOAS) algorithm, tropospheric NO2 slant columns are derived using spectra averaged from measurements over unpolluted regions, thus removing the need for a solar reference spectrum, though some residual stratospheric signal still has to be removed. To validate the ESrs-DOAS algorithm, DOAS retrievals were performed on modelled spectra created by the radiative transfer model- SCIATRAN, as well as L1B earthshine radiance data measured by the NASA/KNMI Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI). It was found that retrievals using an earthshine reference produce spatial distributions of tropospheric NO2 over eastern China during June 2005 that highly correlate with those derived using existing retrieval algorithms. Comparisons with slant columns retrieved by the operational NO2 retrieval algorithm for OMI (OMNO2A) show that the ESrs-DOAS algorithm greatly reduces the presence of artificial across-track biases (stripes) caused by calibration errors, resulting in a 27% reduction in retrieval uncertainty. The ESrs-DOAS technique also reveals absorption features over the Sahara and similar regions characteristic of sand absorption, as first discovered in analysis of GOME-2 NO2 retrievals. Potentially, future satellite instruments optimised for using the ESrs-DOAS algorithm would not need a solar reference, which would simplify their optical and mission design.
Impacts of rice varieties and management on yield-scaled greenhouse gas emissions from rice fields in China: A meta-analysis
Authors: Zheng H. , Huang H. , Yao L. , Liu J. , He H. , Tang J.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. Increasing numbers of studies have suggested that a comprehensive assessment of the impacts of cropping practices on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions per unit yield (yield-scaled), rather than by land area (area-scaled), is needed to inform trade-off decisions to increase yields and reduce GHG emissions. We conducted a meta-analysis to quantify impacts of rice varieties on the global warming potential (GWP) of GHG emissions at the yield scale in China. Our results showed that significantly higher yield-scaled GWP occurred with indica rice varieties (1101.72 kg CO2 equiv. Mg−1) than japonica rice varieties (711.38 kg CO2 equiv. Mg−1). Lower yield-scaled GHG emissions occurred within 120–130 days of growth duration after transplanting (GDAT; 613.66 kg CO2 equiv. Mg−1), followed by 90–100 days of GDAT (749.72 kg CO2 equiv. Mg−1, 100–110 days of GDAT (794.29 kg CO2 equiv. Mg−1), and 70–80 days of GDAT (800.85 kg CO2 equiv. Mg−1). The fertilizer rate of 150–200 kg N ha−1 resulted in the lowest yield-scaled GWP. Consequently, appropriate cultivar choice and pairs were of vital importance in the rice cropping system. A further life cycle assessment of GHG emissions among rice varieties at the yield scale is urgently needed to develop win–win policies for rice production to achieve higher yield with lower emissions.
A high-order conservative collocation scheme and its application to global shallow water equations
Authors: Chen C. , Li X. , Shen X. , Xiao F.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. An efficient and conservative collocation method is proposed and used to develop a global shallow water model in this paper. Being a nodal type high-order scheme, the present method solves the point-wise values of dependent variables as the unknowns within each control volume. The solution points are arranged as Gauss–Legendre points to achieve the high-order accuracy. The time evolution equations to update the unknowns are derived under the flux-reconstruction (FR) framework (Huynh, 2007). Constraint conditions used to build the spatial reconstruction for the flux function include the point-wise values of flux function at the solution points, which are computed directly from the dependent variables, as well as the numerical fluxes at the boundaries of the control volume which are obtained as the Riemann solutions between the adjacent cells. Given the reconstructed flux function, the time tendencies of the unknowns can be obtained directly from the governing equations of differential form. The resulting schemes have super convergence and rigorous numerical conservativeness. A three-point scheme of fifth-order accuracy is presented and analyzed in this paper. The proposed scheme is adopted to develop the global shallow-water model on the cubed-sphere grid where the local high-order reconstruction is very beneficial for the data communications between adjacent patches. We have used the standard benchmark tests to verify the numerical model, which reveals its great potential as a candidate formulation for developing high-performance general circulation models.
Generalized Background Error covariance matrix model (GEN_BE v2.0)
Authors: Descombes G. , Auligné T. , Vandenberghe F. , Barker D. M.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. The specification of state background error statistics is a key component of data assimilation since it affects the impact observations will have on the analysis. In the variational data assimilation approach, applied in geophysical sciences, the dimensions of the background error covariance matrix (B) are usually too large to be explicitly determined and B needs to be modeled. Recent efforts to include new variables in the analysis such as cloud parameters and chemical species have required the development of the code to GENerate the Background Errors (GEN_BE) version 2.0 for the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) community model to allow for a simpler, flexible, robust, and community-oriented framework that gathers methods used by meteorological operational centers and researchers. We present the advantages of this new design for the data assimilation community by performing benchmarks and showing some of the new features on data assimilation test cases. As data assimilation for clouds remains a challenge, we present a multivariate approach that includes hydrometeors in the control variables and new correlated errors. In addition, the GEN_BE v2.0 code is employed to diagnose error parameter statistics for chemical species, which shows that it is a tool flexible enough to involve new control variables. While the generation of the background errors statistics code has been first developed for atmospheric research, the new version (GEN_BE v2.0) can be easily extended to other domains of science and be chosen as a testbed for diagnostic and new modeling of B. Initially developed for variational data assimilation, the model of the B matrix may be useful for variational ensemble hybrid methods as well.
A statistical approach for rain intensity differentiation using Meteosat Second Generation–Spinning Enhanced Visible and InfraRed Imager observations
Authors: Ricciardelli E. , Cimini D. , Di Paola F. , Romano F. , Viggiano M.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. This study exploits the Meteosat Second Generation (MSG)–Spinning Enhanced Visible and Infrared Imager (SEVIRI) observations to evaluate the rain class at high spatial and temporal resolutions and, to this aim, proposes the Rain Class Evaluation from Infrared and Visible observation (RainCEIV) technique. RainCEIV is composed of two modules: a cloud classification algorithm which individuates and characterizes the cloudy pixels, and a supervised classifier that delineates the rainy areas according to the three rainfall intensity classes, the non-rainy (rain rate value < 0.5 mm h-1) class, the light-to-moderate rainy class (0.5 mm h−1 ≤ rain rate value < 4 mm h-1), and the heavy–to-very-heavy-rainy class (rain rate value ≥ 4 mm h-1). The second module considers as input the spectral and textural features of the infrared and visible SEVIRI observations for the cloudy pixels detected by the first module. It also takes the temporal differences of the brightness temperatures linked to the SEVIRI water vapour channels as indicative of the atmospheric instability strongly related to the occurrence of rainfall events. The rainfall rates used in the training phase are obtained through the Precipitation Estimation at Microwave frequencies, PEMW (an algorithm for rain rate retrievals based on Atmospheric Microwave Sounder Unit (AMSU)-B observations). RainCEIV's principal aim is that of supplying preliminary qualitative information on the rainy areas within the Mediterranean Basin where there is no radar network coverage. The results of RainCEIV have been validated against radar-derived rainfall measurements from the Italian Operational Weather Radar Network for some case studies limited to the Mediterranean area. The dichotomous assessment related to daytime (nighttime) validation shows that RainCEIV is able to detect rainy/non-rainy areas with an accuracy of about 97% (96%), and when all the rainy classes are considered, it shows a Heidke skill score of 67% (62%), a bias score of 1.36 (1.58), and a probability of detection of rainy areas of 81% (81%).