bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Des musées qui parlent de la ville
Authors: Hebditch Max
Published: July 2010

Comment, dans un musée, »présenter« une ville à ses habitants et au public? Dans un monde de plus en plus urbanisé, comment un musée de la ville peut‐il appréhender et expliquer des phênomènes sociaux qui ne cessent de se complexifier? Max Hebditch, directeur du Musée de Londres, trace les grands axes d'une réflexion sur les problèmes que doivent résoudre ces musées uniques en leur genre. Archéologue deformation, l'auteur a présidé l'Association des musées du Royaume‐Uni de 1990 à 1992. Ancien président du Comité national britannique de l'ICOM, il a présidé le colloque »Montrer la ville« qui s'est tenu au Musée de Londres en 1993.
L'entreposage des collections dans les réserves: un problème non résolu
Authors: Herreman Yani
Published: July 2010

L'architecture et l'organisation des musées ont connu, au cours des dernières années, de grands changements. Toutefois, selon Yani Herreman, une architecte mexicaine de grande réputation, les locaux des réserves continuent à être par trop négligés. Auteur de nombreux projets de musée dans son pays et à l'étranger, Yani Herreman est membre du Comité consultatif de Museum international.
Le Centre de services techniques de la Smithsonian Institution
Authors: Wilcox U. Vincent
Published: July 2010

Installé à bonne distance de la vénérable institution qui, elle, se trouve au cœur de Washington, le Centre de services techniques pour les musées de la Smithsonian est un complexe révolutionnaire — à la fois entrepôt et laboratoire de recherche — qui a recours aux technologies de pointe pour s'acquitter de sa double mission. Associé de très près à la conception du Centre, l'auteur en a été nommé directeur en 1981, pendant la construction. Il était auparavant chargé de la gestion des collections au Département d'anthropologie de la Smithsonian, après avoir occupé les fonctions de conservateur au service recherche du Musée national de l'Amérindien, à la Fondation Heye, à New York.
Nouveau départ en Afrique
Authors: Luhila Mubiana , Koranteng Lydia A. , Godonou Alain
Published: July 2010

Les musées de l'Afrique subsaharienne sont confrontés à des problèmes aigus de conservation et de magasinage des collections: composées essentiellement de matériaux organiques, celles‐ci sont soumises à des processus de détérioration qui provoquent des dégâts extrêmement graves, de grande ampleur et souvent irréversibles. Le programme PREMA 1990–2000 de formation de spécialistes africains dans ce domaine a été créé par le Centre international d'études pour la conservation et la restauration des biens culturels (ICCROM) à Rome. Les trois articles ci‐après, rédigés par des anciens boursiers du réseau PREMA, témoignent à l'évidence qu'une telle formation, alliée à un esprit d'initiative, à de la détermination et à de l'ingéniosité, peut donner des résultats spectaculaires.
Un Musée des travailleurs à Copenhague
Authors: Ludvigsen Peter
Published: July 2010

L'Arbejdermuseet du Danemark, dès sa création, avait un objectif clair: donner à voir l'histoire des travailleurs. D'abord pauvre en collections, mais riche de détermination et d'imagination, l'Arbejdermuseet est devenu l'un des musées les plus populaires du pays. Il doit son succès aux images éloquentes qu'il offre de la vie quotidienne et au soutien actif qu'il apporte au syndicalisme danois. L'auteur est le directeur du Musée.
Rembrandt à Amsterdam, à Berlin et à Londres
Authors: Bruin Kees
Published: July 2010

Organiser la même exposition d'art dans trots musées de renommée Internationale pent être une entreprise surprenante. L'exposition des œuvres de Rembrandt et de ses éleves a suscité des réactions diverses chez les visiteurs d'Amsterdam, de Londres et de Berlin, et a reflété les approches particulières des conservateurs de chaque musée. Kees Bruin a observé le comportement du public dans les trois expositions et révèle ici la variétê des réactions des visiteurs, qui remettent en question l'importance du patrimoine artistique, la notion d'authenticité, ainsi que les forces personnelles et publiques qui tentent de déterminer ce qui fait la << grandeur >> de l'art. L'auteur est un chercheur attaché à la faculté d'histoire de l'Université Erasmus, à Rotterdam.
Recherche d'une identité: le musée Mané‐Katz
Authors: Tarskish Noa
Published: July 2010

Comment éviter qu'un musée à la gloire d'un artiste ne devienne un monument privé de toute dynamique ? Pour répondre à cette question, les responsables du musée Mané‐Katz de Haïfa (Israël) ont lancé dès la création de l'établissement, il y a une vingtaine d'années, un programme ambitieux qui a contribué à enrichir l'activité culturelle de leur pays. A partir des collections léguées par Mané‐Katz, ils ont entrepris d'explorer le milieu artistique où le peintre a vécu et travaillé. Le directeur du musée évoque ici cette entreprise qui a suscité l'intérêt et la curiosité du public et qui attire un flot constant de visiteurs.
Un somptueux panier fleuri: la galerie Marianne‐North aux Kew Gardens
Authors: Roux Maïté
Published: July 2010

Un musée où chaque détail a été conçu et mis en place avec soin par l'artiste lui‐même, où les toiles et le milieu dans lequel elles sont disposées forment un tout véritablement indissociable, un lieu tout à l'opposé des agencements des musées modernes, telle est la galerie Marianne‐North, située dans les fameux Royal Botanic Gardens, en Angleterre. Elle‐même pièce de musée, la galerie est la plus rare des créations: c'est l'aboutissement de la vision personnelle de l'artiste quant à la façon dont son œuvre devait être conservée et présentée aux générations futures.

L'auteur est une journaliste indépendante qui réside dans la région parisienne.
Des tissus virtuels: les textiles du Met en direct
Authors: Menkes Suzy
Published: July 2010

Les techniques de pointe d'un nouveau centre d'étude et de conservation des textiles permettent une présentation inédite des richesses du Metropolitan Museum of Art de New York. Suzy Menkes est chroniqueur de mode à l'International Herald Tribune.

Cet article a paru dans l'International Herald Tribune le 26 septembre 1995. (NDE)
La galerie Tretyakov rouvre ses portes
Authors: Petyushenko Vitold
Published: July 2010

Dans son numéro 4 de 1991, Museum publiait un entretien avec le directeur général de la galerie Tretyakov de Moscou, Youri Korolev (1929–1992), et l'architecte Guennadi Astafyev à propos de la rénovation de la galerie. Les travaux suivaient alors leur cours et semblaient toucher à leur fin. Nul ne pouvait prévoir que, pour des raisons largement indépendantes de la volonté de tous les intéressés, ils dureraient encore plusieurs années, ni que Youri Korolev, l'âme de cette entreprise, ne vivrait pas assez longtemps pour la voir achevée. Vitold Petyushenko, grande figure de la culture russe, fait le bilan de cette vaste entreprise de restauration. Secrétaire scientifique de la galerie, il est l'auteur de nombreux articles parus dans divers ouvrages de référence, catalogues et collections consacrés à l'art russe et soviétique.
Le Musée national de la marine, à Anvers: une riche collection dans un site historique
Authors: Johnson Wim
Published: July 2010

Il peut paraître étrange d'installer un musée moderne dans une prison du XVIe siècle, mais Wim Johnson montre bien qu'un aménagement judicieux a suffi pour transformer un cauchemar de décorateur en l'un des premiers musées maritimes du monde. L'auteur est directeur adjoint de l'établissement.
Le Service muséal ambulant de Namibie
Authors: Christine  , Nias Peter
Published: July 2010

Vaste territoire dont la population, peu nombreuse, est formée essentiellement de communautés rurales distantes les unes des autres, la Namibie a choisi une manière novatrice de relier l'école et le musée pour former un cadre éducatif en parfaite symbiose. Les auteurs, dont l'un est enseignant et l'autre chercheur, ont été recrutés, à la demande du Gouvernement namibien, par un organisme britannique d'assistance pour aider à la mise en route du programme.
La » privatisation « des musées néerlandais
Authors: Engelsman Steven
Published: July 2010

La récente » privatisation « des musées néerlandais a fait beaucoup de bruit dans le monde muséal. Elle entraine en effet une entière remise en question de l'organisation et de la gestion des musées nationaux. Le texte de cet article est extrait du discours prononcé en juillet 1995 par Steven Engelsman, directeur du Musée national d'ethnologie de Leyde, à l'occasion de la conférence générale de l'ICOM. Il offre un éclairage intéressant sur les raisons qui ont poussé le gouvernement à transférer une grande part de ses responsabilités aux musées eux‐mêmes, et sur la façon dont cette entreprise complexe a été menée.
Variétés de capitalisme ou entrepreneurs institutionnels? Une application aux cas de la sous‐traitance et de la formation de la main‐d'œuvre au Québec
Authors: MORISSETTE LUCIE , CHAREST JEAN
Published: July 2010

Partant de la thèse des entrepreneurs institutionnels, cet article propose d'étudier la coexistence de différentes formes de gouvernance dans un espace économique donné. Puisque l'approche des modèles de capitalisme rend difficilement compte de cette diversité institutionnelle sur un même territoire, nous privilégions une perspective théorique centrée sur l'action innovante des acteurs sociaux pour expliquer un tel phénomène. À l'appui de notre démonstration, sont confrontés à l'analyse deux cas récents de transformation de politiques publiques du travail au Québec (la sous‐traitance et la formation de la main‐d'œuvre). Deux problématiques majeures de relations d'emploi contemporaines, inscrites dans un même environnement, ayant mis en scène les mêmes acteurs sociaux dans des cadres institutionnels très semblables et qui ont pourtant conduit à des dynamiques et des résultats contrastés. L'autonomie de l'acteur, plus qu'un modèle, permet de comprendre les différentes trajectoires institutionnelles qui ont alors été adoptées.
Intervention et représentation de la pauvreté
Authors: TREMBLAY PIERRE‐ANDRÉ
Published: July 2010

L'intervention sur la pauvreté est moins un processus administratif, qu'une relation sociale incarnée dans l'interaction entre des acteurs qu'elle contribue à définir. Elle implique, comme toute action sociale, la production de significations guidant les acteurs. La compréhension de ce réseau sémantique nécessite un processus d'interprétation. Ce texte présente un modèle simplifié d'une telle interprétation. Il contraste la façon dont des intervenants présentent les pauvres et la pauvreté et la façon dont des personnes en situation de pauvreté parlent d'elles‐mêmes et de leurs difficultés. Cette mise en regard fait ressortir la très grande distance entre ces deux discours.
In situ antiphase domain quantification applied on heteroepitaxial GaP growth on Si(100)
Authors: Döscher Henning , Kunert Bernardette , Beyer Andreas , Supplie Oliver , Volz Kerstin , Stolz Wolfgang , Hannappel Thomas
Published: July 2010

Via a particular postgrowth annealing procedure applied to heteroepitaxial GaP films grown on Si(100) substrates by metal-organic vapor phase epitaxy, ex situ atomic force microscopy (AFM) provides insight into the spatial distribution of antiphase domains (APDs). On a specific sample, the AFM characterization reveals a variation of the APD concentration over the sample’s surface. In situ reflectance anisotropy spectroscopy (RAS) was used as a complementary technique for the quantification of APDs on the P-rich prepared GaP surface. Besides the expected linear reduction of the RAS signal according to the presence of antiphase disorder, the comparison with the reflection anisotropy (RA) spectrum of an identically prepared, (2×2)/c(4×2) reconstructed surface of a homoepitaxial GaP(100) reference revealed further characteristic deviations. In principle, they originated from the additional reflection at the GaP/Si(100) heterointerface. Mainly, its interference with the surface reflection affected the normalization of the RAS signal. Corresponding interference corrections improved the agreement of the GaP/Si(100) RA spectra with the homoepitaxially grown GaP(100) reference in general and, in particular, the accuracy and reliability of the in situ APD quantification via RAS. Finally, the statistical evaluation of comprehensive ex situ AFM characterization agreed well with RAS results after interference corrections, which represent an in situ technique for the APD quantification over a macroscopic spot size of a few millimeters.
Lithographic performance evaluation of a contaminated extreme ultraviolet mask after cleaning
Authors: George Simi , Naulleau Patrick , Okoroanyanwu Uzodinma , Dittmar Kornelia , Holfeld Christian , Wüest Andrea
Published: July 2010

The effect of surface contamination and subsequent mask surface cleaning on the lithographic performance of an extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask is investigated. SEMATECH’s Berkeley microfield exposure tool printed 40 and 50 nm line and space (L/S) patterns are evaluated to compare the performance of a contaminated and cleaned mask to an uncontaminated mask. Since the two EUV masks have different absorber architectures, optical imaging models and aerial image calculations were performed to determine any expected differences in performance. The measured and calculated Bossung curves, process windows, and exposure latitudes for the two sets of L/S patterns are compared to determine how the contamination and cleaning impacts the lithographic performance of EUV masks. The observed differences between the two masks are shown to be well within the expected process variation of 10%, indicating that the cleaning process did not appreciably affect the mask performance.
Dermoscopic Features of a Black Hairy Tongue in 2 Japanese Patients
Authors: Kobayashi Ken , Takei Yasuhiko , Sawada Mizuki , Ishizaki Sumiko , Ito Haruo , Tanaka Masaru
Published: July 2010

Dermoscopic features of a black hairy tongue have never been reported. Dermoscopy might be useful in speculating pathologic features of oral lesions. The objective was to identify additional dermoscopic criteria. Two Japanese patients who were clinically given a diagnosis of “black hairy tongue” were evaluated for dermoscopic features. We have shown characteristic dermoscopic features of brownish hair‐like elongation of filiform papillae with whitish lingual papillae. Dermoscopic examination seemed useful as an adjunct to the diagnosis of this benign disorder of the tongue, demonstrating exact changes in shape and color of filiform papillae. It might also be helpful in more objective observation of the therapeutic efficacy.
Preparation and Characterization ofSb2Te3Thin Films by Coevaporation
Authors: Lv Bin , Hu Songbai , Li Wei , Di Xia , Feng Lianghuan , Zhang Jingquan , Wu Lili , Cai Yaping , Li Bing , Lei Zhi
Published: July 2010

Deposition ofSb2Te3thin films on soda-lime glass substrates by coevaporation of Sb and Te is described in this paper.Sb2Te3thin films were characterized by x-ray diffraction (XRD), x-ray fluorescence (XRF), atomic force microscopy (AFM), x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), electrical conductivity measurements, and Hall measurements. The abnormal electrical transport behavior occurred fromin situelectrical conductivity measurements. The results indicate that as-grownSb2Te3thin films are amorphous and undergo an amorphous-crystalline transition after annealing, and the posttreatment can effectively promote the formation of Sb-Te bond and prevent oxidation of thin film surface.
The Matrix Metalloproteases and Endothelin‐1 in Infection‐Associated Preterm Birth
Authors: Olgun Nicole S. , Reznik Sandra E.
Published: July 2010

Preterm birth (PTB) is clinically defined as any delivery which occurs before the completion of 37 weeks of gestation, and is currently the most important problem in obstetrics. In the United States, PTB accounts for 12‐13% of all live births, and, with the exception of fetuses suffering from anomalies, is the primary cause of perinatal mortality. While the risk factors for PTB are numerous, the single most common cause is intrauterine infection. As there is currently no FDA‐approved therapy for infection‐associated PTB, understanding the pathogenesis of preterm labor (PTL) and delivery should be given high priority. The matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of enzymes that have been implicated in normal parturition as well as infection‐triggered rupture of membranes and preterm birth. Several lines of evidence also suggest a role for endothelin‐1 (ET‐1) in infection‐associated preterm delivery. This paper focuses on the evidence that the MMPs and ET‐1 act in the same molecular pathway in preterm birth.
Use of Tetra-ammonium Tetrakis(4-Sulphonato)Phenyl Porphyrin forPseudomonasandBacillusCell Imaging
Authors: Sujatha V. , Sridhar Bharat , Krishnamurthy Srinath , Vinod Kumar K. S. , Senthil Kumar K. , Gautam Pennathur
Published: July 2010

The use of tetraammonium tetrakis(4-sulphonato)phenyl porphyrin (TPPS), a water-soluble anionic compound, as a stain to analyse bacterial cells using fluorescent microscopy was investigated. TPPS was effectively used to analyse two different bacteria:Pseudomonas aeruginosaandBacillus cereus. The variation in brightness with varying concentrations of TPPS was studied. The patterns of variations for these bacteria were found to be the same, but with consistently higher brightness forBacillus cereus.
Variability of Parameters Involved in Leachate Pollution Index and Determination of LPI from Four Landfills in Malaysia
Authors: Umar Muhammad , Aziz Hamidi Abdul , Yusoff Mohd Suffian
Published: July 2010

Landfill sites are potential sources of human and environmental hazards. Leachate produced form these waste dumping sites is heterogeneous and exhibits huge temporal and seasonal variations. Leachate pollution index (LPI) provides an overall pollution potential of a landfill site. The parameters required to calculate LPI from a landfill site are discussed in terms of their variations over time, and their significance has been highlighted in the context of LPI. The LPI values of two semiaerobic and two anaerobic landfill sites in Malaysia have been calculated in this study. Pulau Burung Landfill Site (PBLS) was found to have the highest LPI score while Ampang Jajar Landfill Site (AJLS) showed the lowest LPI as compared to other landfills. It is concluded that LPI value can be used as a tool to assess the leachate pollution potential from landfill sites particularly at places where there is a high risk of leachate migration and pollution of groundwater.
Dermoscopic Features of CD8‐Positive Solitary Pagetoid Reticulosis on the Left Leg
Authors: Suzaki Reiko , Kobayashi Ken , Ishizaki Sumiko , Fujibayashi Mariko , Tanaka Masaru
Published: July 2010

Solitary pagetoid reticulosis, also known as Woringer‐Kolopp disease, is a rare subtype of cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma. The typical clinical presentation is a solitary, localized psoriasiform or hyperkeratotic plaque or tumor located on the extremities. It primarily affects middle‐aged males. Because the clinical features of pagetoid reticulosis are indistinctive, pagetoid reticulosis may progress for years before accurate diagnosis. We reported a 57‐year‐old Japanese woman who presented with a 1‐year history of a solitary erythematous plaque on the left leg. Dermoscopic features simulated Bowen′s disease showing dotted and glomerular vessels, whitish scaly areas, and a broad negative network. Dermoscopic features of pagetoid reticulosis have never been reported. We have discussed the diagnostic significance of the observed dermoscopic findings.
Nondimensional Analysis of Fractional-Order PDD1/2 Control of Purely Inertial Systems
Authors: Bruzzone Luca , Bozzini Giorgio
Published: July 2010

The paper discusses the performance of the PDD1/2 control scheme, which is an extension of the classical PD scheme with the introduction of the half-derivative term. The comparison between the PD and the PDD1/2 schemes is performed with reference to a second-order purely inertial system, using a dimensionless approach for the sake of generality. The influences of the sampling time and of the saturation are taken into account. The results show that the introduction of the half-derivative term, in proper combination with the derivative term, reduces the settling time under the same conditions of maximum control output and null overshoot.
Flow Cytometry Quantification of CD34+ Cells and Other Leukocyte Subpopulations in Frozen-Thawed Blood Cell Suspensions: Investigation of a New Teflon Container for Cryopreservation of Hemato-poietic Progenitor Cells
Authors: Arseniev L. , Goudeva L. , Kadar J.G. , Südmeier I. , Battmer K. , Matheja S. , Mitschulat H. , Stangel W. , Link H.
Published: July 2010

Background: Cryopreservation is the only available method for the long-time maintenance of blood cells. The present study was designed to prove: (i) the reliability of multiparameter flow cytometry (MFC) for estimation of CD34+ cells in frozen-thawed cell suspensions and (ii) the acceptability of a new teflon container for the cryopreservation of hematopoietic progenitor cells. Materials and Methods: Each of 15 ABO-compatible buffy coats (BC) were pooled, and mononuclear cells (MNC) were then separated with the Fresenius AS 104 device (n = 10). MNC harvested by apheresis were then divided into 2 portions and transferred pairwise into either the new Fresenius or into Gambro cryopreservation containers. Paired samples were frozen at controlled rates (9% DMSO final concentration) and stored at -196 °C in liquid nitrogen for 2 weeks. Leukocyte, MNC and differential blood counts and proportions of CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, CD14+ and CD34+ cells were assessed from the pooled BC, the apheresis products, and the frozen-thawed samples. Methyl cellulose culture assays as well as trypan blue viability staining were also carried out. Results: The mean content of the divided apheresis products was 4.9 × 109 leukocytes with 86% MNC, 6.89 ×106 CD34+ cells, 2.1 ×105 granulocyte-macrophage colony-forming units (CFU-GM) and 7.1 ×105 erythroid burst-forming units (BFU-E). As expected, there were virtually no granulocytes after freezing in both types of container. The corresponding mean cell content was as follows: 6.3 ×106 CD34+ cells, 2.5 × 105 CFU-GM, and 8.1 × 105 BFU-E in Fresenius containers, and 6.1 × 106 CD34+ cells, 1.3 × 105 CFU-GM, and 7.7 × 105 BFU-E in Gambro containers. The mean MNC viability of the samples frozen in Fresenius was 81.5% and 82.7% in the Gambro containers. MFC was found to compare with stained smear differentials. CD34+ cell counts correlated with CFU-GM (0.69, p = 0.03) and BFU-E (0.63, p = 0.02) colony formation. Conclusions: The study reported here revealed no significant differences between the 2 types of storage containers. The new Fresenius teflon container could thus be
Efficacy of Adjuvant Gemcitabine-Cisplatin Chemotherapy: A Comparative Study between Locally Advanced Transitional Cell Carcinoma of the Bladder and Upper Urinary Tract
Authors: Song Yun Seob , Cho Jin Seon , Cho Kang Su , Doo Seung Hwan , Chung Byung Ha , Kim Se Joong , Yang Won Jae , Song Ki Hak , Kim Chun Il , Hong Sung Joon
Published: July 2010

Objective: To evaluate the comparative efficacy of adjuvant gemcitabine and cisplatin (GC) chemotherapy between patients with locally advanced transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the bladder and upper urinary tract. Patients and Methods: From 2001 to 2005, we retrospectively selected a total of 64 patients with locally advanced TCC of the bladder and upper urinary tract who received at least 3 cycles of adjuvant GC chemotherapy. We compared disease-free and overall survival between the 2 groups. Results: The recurrence rate was 30.3% in TCC of the bladder and 25.8% of the upper urinary tract (p = 0.633). Statistical analysis revealed that there was no significant difference in the disease-free or overall survival rate between TCC of the bladder and upper urinary tract treated with adjuvant GC chemotherapy. Conclusion: Under the circumstances of limited data about TCC of the upper urinary tract, this study may suggest that adjuvant GC chemotherapy in locally advanced TCC of the upper urinary tract is as effective as those of bladder.
Extraperitoneal Surgical Repair of Parastomal Hernia of Bricker’s Urinary Diversion with Polypropylene Mesh: Stoma Reimplantation through the Mesh
Authors: Lima Marcos Venício Alves , Regadas Rommel Prata , Tavares José Marconi , Gonzaga Silva Lúcio Flávio
Published: July 2010

Introduction: Parastomal hernias affect 4.5–9% of patients submitted to ileostomy. Correcting this hernia represents a challenge. There are two basic approaches to the surgical correction of parastomal hernias: stoma relocation and repair in situ. We describe an alternative modified technique for extraperitoneal correction of large parastomal hernias using a polypropylene mesh and reimplantation of the urostomy in situthrough the mesh. Patient and Methods: An 80-year-old patient submitted to Bricker urinary diversion developed a large parastomal hernia affecting almost the entire circumference causing local pain and difficulties in appliance attachment. An ellipsoid skin incision around the urostomy was done and skin flaps were dissected up to the aponeurotic borders keeping the hernia sac intact. A polypropylene mesh was sutured onto the aponeurotic borders, the urostomy was led back through a central opening in the mesh, and the skin segment was stitched onto the mesh. Results: The patient was discharged on the third postoperative (PO) day. On day 14 PO he presented a small area of dehiscence treated with resuture. By the 30th month, no changes had occurred in the stoma or in the upper urinary tract and the patient was asymptomatic with no signs of tumor or hernia recurrence. Conclusions: Simple to perform and associated with low morbidity, the procedure represents an alternative for the treatment of parastomal hernias that would otherwise require stomal relocation.
Is Perioperative Intravesically Applied Antibiotic Solution Effective in the Prophylaxis of Urinary Tract Infections after Renal Transplantation?
Authors: Salehipour Mehdi , Salahi Heshmatollah , Fathikalajahi Ali , Mohammadian Reza , Emadmarvasti Vahid , Bahador Ali , Nikeghbalian Saman , Kazemi Kourosh , Dehghani Masood , Malek-Hosseini Seyed Ali
Published: July 2010

Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy of intravesically applied amikacin for the prophylaxis of urinary tract infections (UTIs) occurring in the first 3 months after kidney transplantation. Methods: In a prospective, randomized, controlled trial, 200 consecutive renal transplant recipients were randomly divided into two equal groups. The bladders of the first group, the amikacin group, were filled with saline solution containing amikacin (1 g in adults and 30 mg/kg in pediatric patients) whereas the bladders of the patients of the second group, the control group, were filled with saline solution. Patients were followed up for 3 months after transplantation with urine cultures to evaluate the prevalence of posttransplantation UTIs in both groups. Results: The overall incidence of UTIs was found to be significantly lower in the amikacin group (25 vs. 49%; p = 0.0007). In addition, male patients, patients with end-stage renal disease due to glomerulonephritis, patients receiving renal transplantation for the first time, or those from the amikacin group receiving a living-related graft had a significantly lower incidence of UTIs than their counterparts in the control group (p < 0.05). UTIs were most frequently caused by Escherichia coli (28.9%). Conclusions: Perioperative bladder irrigation with amikacin solution significantly decreases the overall incidence of UTIs in the first 3 months after kidney transplantation.
Activity and Expression of Vitamin K-Dependent Gamma-Glutamyl Carboxylase in Patients with Calcium Oxalate Urolithiasis
Authors: Wang Tao , Yang Jun , Qiao Jiankun , Liu Jihong , Guo Xiaolin , Ye Zhangqun
Published: July 2010

Objectives: To evaluate the correlation between vitamin K-dependent gamma-glutamyl carboxylase (GGCX) and the formation of calcium oxalate urolithiasis (COU). Methods: Renal cortex samples were obtained from patients undergoing nephrectomy and divided into 3 groups: (1) urolithiasic group (n = 44); (2) hydronephrosis-without-stone group (control group A, n = 6), and (3) normal control group (control group B, n = 21). Immunohistochemical technique was established to study the location of GGCX in renal tissues. The carboxylase activity was detected by the isotope-labeled carboxylatic reaction in vitro. We also quantified GGCX mRNA levels using TaqMan real-time reverse-transcription PCR, and protein was detected by Western blot. Results: GGCX was located in the cytoplasm of renal tubular epithelial cells and the activity of GGCX in the urolithiasic group was significantly decreased compared with that of controls (p < 0.05). GGCX mRNA in the urolithiasic group was lower than that in the normal control group, which was on average 7.86-fold underexpressed in the urolithiasic group compared to the normal control group. Protein expression of GGCX in the urolithiasic group (27.64 ± 0.29) was weaker than that in the other 2 control groups (control group A 55.22 ± 0.36, control group B 53.78 ± 0.33), p < 0.05. Conclusions: The activity and expression of GGCX are decreased in renal tissues of patients with COU.
Association between Vitamin D Receptor Gene Polymorphisms and Idiopathic Hypocitraturia in the Chinese Population
Authors: Zhu Chenxi , Ye Zhangqun , Chen Zhiqiang , Xia Ding , Hu Jia
Published: July 2010

Introduction: Idiopathic hypocitraturia is a known risk factor for urolithiasis. Several studies have shown an association between vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene polymorphisms and urolithiasis. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between VDR gene polymorphisms and idiopathic hypocitraturia in a Chinese population. Subjects and Methods: We chose 50 Chinese subjects with normal urinary citrate levels (N) and 31 Chinese subjects with idiopathic hypocitraturia (L). The VDR polymorphisms BsmI, FokI, TaqI, and ApaI were detected using the PCR-RFLP technique, and the relationship between these polymorphisms and the presence of idiopathic hypocitraturia was analyzed. Results: We found that the prevalence of ‘bb’, ‘ff’, and ‘TT’ VDR genotypes were significantly higher in the ‘L’ group than in the ‘N’ group (p < 0.05). We also found much lower 24-hour urinary citrate concentrations in patients with ‘bb’, ‘ff’, and ‘TT’ genotypes than in patients with other genotypes (p < 0.05). Conclusions: These results showed that there might be a genetic association between BsmI, FokI, and TaqI VDR polymorphisms and idiopathic hypocitraturia in the Chinese population.
A Kidney Tumor in an Adolescent with Severe Hypertension and Hypokalemia: An Uncommon Case – Case Report and Review of the Literature on Reninoma
Authors: Gottardo Fedra , Cesari Maurizio , Morra Aldo , Gardiman Marina , Fassina Ambrogio , Dal Bianco Massimo
Published: July 2010

This report presents a case of a 16-year-old hypertensive boy who presented to our clinic. Laboratory findings showed severe hypokalemia and markedly increased plasma renin activity. Abdominal ultrasonography and contrast-enhanced computed tomography of the abdomen revealed a well-circumscribed, solid, hypoenhancing cortical lesion (2 cm) in the lower pole of the left kidney. The patient under- went nephron-sparing surgery. Histopathologic examination gave a diagnosis of juxtaglomerular cell tumor. Reninoma is an uncommon cause of hypertension in a young adult and should be included in the differential diagnosis as a potential life-threatening and curable condition. The conservative surgical management is the gold standard for small, circumscribed lesions.
Door-to-Door Survey of Major Neurological Disorders in Al Kharga District, New Valley, Egypt: Methodological Aspects
Authors: El Tallawy Hamdy N.A. , Farghaly Wafaa M.A. , Metwaly Nabil A. , Rageh Tarek A. , Shehata Ghaydaa A. , Elfetoh Noha Abo , Hegazy Ahmed M. , El-Moselhy Esam A. , Rayan Ibrahim , Al-Fawal Bastawy M.A. , Abd Elhamed Mohamed A.
Published: July 2010

Epidemiology of neurological disorders is still lacking in Egypt. The door-to-door method is the most suitable one to screen neurological disorders in our country. Over a 4-year period (June 1, 2005 to May 31, 2009), screening and examination had been carried out to ascertain the incidence and prevalence rate of epilepsy, stroke, cerebral palsy and Bell’s palsy, as well as the prevalence of dementia, extrapyramidal syndromes, muscle and neuromuscular disorders, cerebellar ataxia and primary nocturnal enuresis among the urban and rural population of Al Kharga District, New Valley, Egypt. A total of 62,583 people were screened by 3 neurologists in a door-to-door manner, including every door, using a standardized Arabic questionnaire to detect any patient with a neurological disorder. This was a project study of neurological disorders including 3 stages: first stage (June 1, 2005 to May 31, 2006) for data collection, designing a standardized questionnaire and screening; second stage (June 1, 2006 to May 31, 2008) for case ascertainment, classification of neurological disorders and investigations, and third stage (June 1, 2007 to May 31, 2009) for data entry and statistical analysis. The results of this study revealed that the total prevalence rate of neurological disorders in Al Kharga District, New Valley was 2.4/100 with no significant difference among both sexes. The highest prevalence rate was recorded among elderly people (60+ years; 9.25%) and among children (≤18 years; 2.9%).
Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy in Ectopically Located Kidneys and in Patients with Musculoskeletal Deformities
Authors: Srivastava A. , Gupta P. , Chaturvedi S. , Singh P. , Kapoor R. , Dubey D. , Kumar A.
Published: July 2010

Objective: To assess the feasibility, safety and results of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) in ectopically located kidneys and in patients with musculoskeletal deformities. Patients and Methods: Thirteen such patients underwent PNL between June 2005 and May 2008. Mean stone size was 27.4 mm (16–37 mm). Six patients had severe kyphoscoliosis, 2 patients each had achondroplasia, cross-fused ectopia and pelvic ectopic kidney, and 1 patient had thoracic kidney. All had a preoperative CT scan of the abdomen. Preoperative ultrasound- or CT-guided percutaneous nephrostomy (PCN) was done in 10 patients. Three patients underwent laparoscopic-assisted PNL. All underwent standard PNL. The stone-free rate, complication rate and need for secondary intervention were evaluated. Results: PNL was successfully completed in all. A second ultrasound-guided intraoperative puncture was required in 2 patients. Re-look PNL was required in 1 patient and the same patient later required shock wave lithotripsy for complete stone clearance. The remaining 12 patients (92.3%) were rendered stone-free in a single sitting. Conclusion: PNL is a feasible and effective modality in anomalous kidneys. Preoperative planning with CT and image-guided PCN is helpful in these situations. Laparoscopic-assisted PNL can be safely performed in patients where access to a renal collecting system by fluoroscopy or image-guided assistance (ultrasound or CT scan) is not possible.
Successful Treatment of Metastatic Malignant Fibrous Histiocytoma of the Kidney
Authors: Sugihara Toru , Fujimura Tetsuya , Kume Haruki , Homma Yukio
Published: July 2010

Malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH) of the kidney is a rare sarcoma that often undergoes local recurrence and/or distant metastasis. However, little is known about the outcome of metastatic diseases. We present the case of a 46-year-old male suffering from renal MFH with pulmonary metastasis, who has undergone complete response for 3 years after surgical resection and MAID chemotherapy. He is now well, and without any evidence of recurrent disease.
A Prospective, Randomized, Controlled, Multicenter Study of Naftopidil for Treatment of Male Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Associated with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: 75 mg Once Daily in the Evening Compared to 25 mg Thrice Daily
Authors: Tsuritani Shinji , Nozaki Tetsuo , Okumura Akiou , Kimura Hitomi , Kazama Taizo
Published: July 2010

Introduction: We examined the tolerability of dosage methods of naftopidil in the treatment of male lower urinary tract symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH/male LUTS). Patients and Methods: A total of 80 patients with BPH/male LUTS who had an International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) ≧8 and IPSS quality of life (QoL) ≧2 were enrolled and randomly administered naftopidil for 8 weeks at either 75 mg once daily (OD) in the evening (group O; n = 41) or 25 mg thrice daily (TID) in the morning, afternoon and evening (group T; n = 39). Results: IPSS total score, IPSS-QoL and BPH impact index (BII) were significantly improved for both groups at 8 weeks after starting treatment compared to baseline. IPSS total score and daytime and 24-hour voiding frequencies were significantly improved at 8 weeks after starting treatment for group O in comparison to group T. Group O showed a significantly better degree of change in BII in comparison to group T. Conclusions: Naftopidil 75 mg OD in the evening was better tolerated than naftopidil 25 mg TID for the objective parameter and BII.
Effects of Telmisartan on Arterial Stiffness Assessed by the Cardio-Ankle Vascular Index in Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Kinouchi Kenichiro , Ichihara Atsuhiro , Sakoda Mariyo , Kurauchi-Mito Asako , Murohashi-Bokuda Kanako , Itoh Hiroshi
Published: July 2010

Background/Aims: This study was conducted to determine the effect of telmisartan on the cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI), a novel blood pressure (BP)-independent marker for arterial stiffness in hypertensive patients. Methods: One hundred consecutive hypertensive patients were randomly assigned either to a group treated with calcium channel blocker (CCB)-based therapy or a group treated with telmisartan-based therapy. Clinical and biological parameters were then measured before and 12 months after the start of this study. Results: CAVI, the logarithm of urinary albumin excretion, and BP were reduced significantly after telmisartan-based therapy. The decreases in 24-hour diastolic BP and daytime systolic BP associated with telmisartan-based therapy were significantly greater than those associated with CCB-based therapy. Both therapies significantly and similarly decreased the clinical BP, 24-hour systolic BP, daytime diastolic BP and serum levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. No significant differences in the metabolic parameters were observed between the two therapies. Conclusion: Telmisartan-based therapy had beneficial effects on arterial stiffness assessed by CAVI, albuminuria, 24-hour BP and metabolism compared with CCB-based therapy. Since these markers are known to influence the future risk of cardiovascular events, telmisartan could be a useful drug for hypertensive patients.
Impact of Hospital Provider Volume on Outcome for Radical Urological Cancer Surgery in England
Authors: Hanchanale Vishwanath S. , Javlé Pradip
Published: July 2010

Introduction: Complex surgical procedures are associated with higher mortality and morbidity. There is a paucity of data supporting a volume-outcome relationship in the United Kingdom. We analysed Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) to contemplate the association of hospital provider volume and short-term outcomes (mortality rate and hospital stay) for 3 radical urological procedures in England. Materials and Methods: The HES database was extracted for radical prostatectomy (RP), radical cystectomy (RC) and radical nephrectomy (RN) using ICD-10 and OPCS-4 codes for 7 years. Hospitals were divided into quartiles depending on the annual hospital volume. The impact of hospital provider volume was analysed for outcomes. Results: Overall 43,946 patients were included in the study. RP patients had the lowest mortality rate (0.2%) and shorter in-patient stay (7 days). Mortality from RC and RN were 475 (5.3%) and 537 (2.6%), respectively. There was no significant difference for mortality following RP in four volume groups (p = 0.76). The mortality rate for RC decreased from 6.9% in the very low-volume group to 4.1% in the high-volume group (p < 0.001) without change in the in-hospital stay. The proportion of patients treated at high-volume centres for RP, RC and RN has increased from 0 to 42, 22 to 35 and 10 to 38%, respectively, over a 7-year study period. Conclusion: In England, hospital provider volume has a significant impact on outcome measures for radical pelvic urological procedures with a lower mortality (RC) and shorter in-patient stay (RP). Thus HES data from England support the hospital volume-outcome relationship and emphasise the centralisation of care for radical urological procedures.
Imaging Studies in Metastatic Urogenital Cancer Patients Undergoing Systemic Therapy: Recommendations of a Multidisciplinary Consensus Meeting of the Association of Urological Oncology of the German Cancer Society
Authors: Heidenreich Axel , Albers Peter , Classen Johannes , Graefen Markus , Gschwend Jürgen , Kotzerke Jörg , Krege Susanne , Lehmann Jens , Rohde Detlef , Schmidberger Heinz , Uder Michael , Zeeb Hajo
Published: July 2010

Introduction: Imaging studies are an integral and important diagnostic modality to stage, to monitor and follow-up patients with metastatic urogenital cancer. The currently available guidelines on diagnosis and treatment of urogenital cancer do not provide the clinician with evidence-based recommendations for daily practice. Objectives: To develop scientifically valid recommendations with regard to the most appropriate imaging technique and the most useful time interval in metastatic urogenital cancer patients undergoing systemic therapy. Methods: A systematic literature review was performed searching MedLine, Embase and Web of Science databases using the terms prostate, renal cell, bladder and testis cancer in combination with the variables lymph node, lung, liver, bone metastases, chemotherapy and molecular therapy, and the search terms computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and positron emission tomography were applied. A total of 11,834 records were retrieved from all databases. The panel reviewed the records to identify articles with the highest level of evidence using the recommendation of the US Agency for Health Care Policy and Research. Conclusions: Contrast-enhanced computed tomography remains the standard imaging technique for monitoring of pulmonary, hepatic and lymph node metastases. Bone scintigraphy is still the most widely used imaging technique for the detection and follow-up of osseous lesions. For clinical trials it might be replaced by either PET-CT or MRI of the skeletal axis. Response assessment for patients treated with cytotoxic regime is best performed by the RECIST/WHO criteria; treatment response to molecular triggered therapy is best assessed by CT evaluating decrease in tumor size and density. Cross-sectional imaging studies for response assessment might be obtained after each 2 cycles of systemic therapy to early stratify responders from non-responders.
Impact of Lymph Node Invasion and Sarcomatoid Differentiation on the Survival of Patients with Locally Advanced Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Rodríguez-Covarrubias Francisco , Castillejos-Molina Ricardo , Sotomayor Mariano , Méndez-Probst Carlos E. , Gómez-Alvarado Martha Olivia , Uribe-Uribe Norma , Gabilondo Fernando , Feria-Bernal Guillermo
Published: July 2010

Introduction: The application of current prognosticators in locally advanced nonmetastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is controversial. We analyzed the impact of clinical and pathological variables on the survival of this subset of patients. Patients and Methods: We studied patients with RCC in stages III and IV without metastases, treated surgically between 1980 and 2009. We calculated disease-free (DFS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS), and the relation of clinical and pathological variables with these end-points. Results: We identified 126 patients with locally advanced RCC; 8.7% had sarcomatoid differentiation. Tumor stage was pT3a in 48% and pT3b in 42%; 11.9% had lymph node invasion (N+). Patients with N– and N+ had a 10-year DFS of 49.0 and 23.4%, respectively (p = 0.0001). In multivariate analysis N+ (p = 0.0002) was the strongest predictor of DFS. The 10-year CSS of patients without sarcomatoid differentiation was 53.1% while those with sarcomatoid differentiation did not reach the median time to death (p < 0.0001). In multivariate analysis, sarcomatoid differentiation (p = 0.01) was the strongest predictor of CSS. Conclusions: Locally advanced RCC portends poor prognosis. Preoperatively, weight loss and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status are predictors of recurrence and mortality, respectively. However, the most powerful predictors of DFS and CSS in our cohort were lymph node status and sarcomatoid differentiation.
Increased Stroke Risk and Lipoprotein(a) in a Multiethnic Community: The Northern Manhattan Stroke Study
Authors: Boden-Albala Bernadette , Kargman Douglas E. , Lin I-Feng , Paik Myunghee C. , Sacco Ralph L. , Berglund Lars
Published: July 2010

Context: Elevated lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is associated with ischemic stroke (IS) among Whites, but data is sparse for non-White populations. Objective: Using a population-based case-control study design with subjects from the Northern Manhattan Stroke Study, we assessed whether Lp(a) levels were independently associated with IS risk among Whites, Blacks and Hispanics. Design and Setting: Lp(a) levels were measured in 317 IS cases (mean age 69 ± 13 years; 56% women; 16% Whites, 31% Blacks and 52% Hispanics) and 413 community-based controls, matched by age, race/ethnicity and gender. In-person assessments included demographics, socioeconomic status, presence of vascular risk factors and fasting lipid levels. Logistic regression was used to determine the independent association of Lp(a) and IS. Stratified analyses investigated gender and race/ethnic differences. Results: Mean Lp(a) levels were greater among cases than controls (46.3 ± 41.0 vs. 38.9 ± 38.2 mg/dl; p < 0.01). After adjusting for stroke risk factors (hypertension, diabetes mellitus, coronary artery disease, cigarette smoking), lipid levels, and socioeconomic status, Lp(a) levels ≧30 mg/dl were independently associated with an increased stroke risk in the overall cohort (adjusted odds ratio, OR, 1.8, 95% confidence interval, CI, 1.20–2.6; p = 0.004). There was a significant linear dose-response relationship between Lp(a) levels and IS risk. The association between IS risk and Lp(a) ≧30 mg/dl was more pronounced among men (adjusted OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.1–3.5; p = 0.02) and among Blacks (adjusted OR 2.7, 95% CI 1.2–6.2; p = 0.02). Conclusion: Elevated Lp(a) levels were significantly and independently associated with increased stroke risk, suggesting that Lp(a) is a risk factor for IS across White, Black and Hispanic race/ethnic groups.