bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comprehensive Evaluation of Gas Zone in Multi-Layer Sandstone Gas Reservoir
Authors: Ou Cheng Hua , Li Chao Chun , He Jian
Published: October 2014

This work, in view of the features of strong gas zone heterogeneity in Multi-Layer Sandstone Gas Reservoir (MLSGR), develops a methodology on Comprehensive Evaluation of Gas Zone (CEGZ). By using of the methodology, three grade gas zone classified score bounds were transformed from three grade field production capacity classified criteria by utilizing multi-factor comprehensive evaluation method in terms of analytical hierarchy process and comprehensive scores, and CEGZ of 13236 well-layers in Sebei MLSGR, Qaidam basin were fulfilled successfully, which lays the geologic foundations for subsequent balanced and fine exploitation of Sebei MLSGR, and validates the applicability and reliability of this methodology synchronously.
Research on Food Manufacturing with Effect and Comparison of Microwave and Traditional Cooking Processing on Antioxidant Function of Lotus Root
Authors: Zhu Yun Long , Chen Ting , Zhu Jing Jing , Yuan Yang
Published: October 2014

Purpose: In view of the lotus root has significant antioxidant properties but if improperly cooked easily destroyed, compared with traditional cooking method, and discusses the applicability of microwave processing and establish the optimum processing conditions. Method: By setting different microwave power and heating time, handling fresh-cut lotus root vacuum packaging products with microwave, measured flavonoids, total phenolic content and DPPH clearance, and synchronization researched the traditional cook methods cooking, steaming and stir-frying, comprehensive comparison the antioxidant effect of all kinds of processed products. Results: ①Under following conditions microwave power ≥60 P, processing time≤6min, flavonoids and total phenol content were high, DPPH clearance was bigger also. ②Cooking 6min,water volume between 500-1000mL, flavonoids and total phenol contents was high, but change with the further increased water volume, the contents decrease, DPPH clearance was relatively stable, when confirmed water volume 1500mL, cooking 2-4min, flavonoids content slightly ascending, then changed into degressive changes, the change of DPPH clearance was similar. Total phenol content was decrease progressively along with extending of the cooking time. ③Handing under steaming 15min, three index of the products were high voltage products > atmospheric products, the latter's steamed time should be less than 20 min. ④Making products in oil capacity 25mL or less 3 min, with the increase of oil capacity, flavonoids, total phenolic content and DPPH clearance were progressive increase. ⑤Lotus root food antioxidant activity: steamed food < cooked food < microwave food < fried food. Conclusion: In protecting lotus root antioxidant health care function in different cropping system, microwave is a kind of superior to boiling, steaming, and pressure cooking method and second only to oil fry.
New Façade Ventilation Units of under Pressure Controlled Ventilation System
Authors: Bielek Boris , Szabó Daniel
Published: October 2014

Task of controlled ventilation in modern residential buildings is to ensure optimum quality of interior environment and fulfill hygienic and thermal technical requirements guaranteeing comfort of user. The paper discusses development and experimental verification of atypical vertical ventilation units of under pressure controlled ventilation system for residential high-rise building. Recommended concept of solution to façade detail in relation to ventilation system. Optimized alternative of air inlet openings in the bottom level of vertical pilaster with function of air distribution channel for under pressure controlled ventilation system. The paper discusses laboratory experimental verification of physical properties of optimized alternative of ventilation units of under pressure controlled ventilation system for high-rise residential building in their development cycle. Boundary conditions of physical designing of envelope structures for load of wind-driven rain and their modifications for high-rise building in the locality of Bratislava. Hydrodynamic regime of air inlet openings of controlled ventilation system – maintaining water impermeability of air inlet openings of the ventilation system under the effect of wind-driven rain – laboratory experimental research in large rain chamber, its results and necessary construction modifications of elements of ventilation units. Aerodynamic regime of natural controlled ventilation system – quantification of volume of air flow rate through ventilation units in dependence to air pressure difference - laboratory experimental research in large pressure chamber. Acoustic properties of natural controlled ventilation system – quantification of index of air impermeability of controlled ventilation system in open and closed position - laboratory experimental research in acoustic chambers. Comparison by the experiment of verified parameters of ventilation units of under pressure controlled ventilation with design parameters.
Analysis of Real Fire as a Basis for Future Simulation
Authors: Reháková Martina , Mikolai Imrich
Published: October 2014

Because of the continual tightening of fire safety criteria for apartment buildings is necessary to pay more attention not only to new buildings but to existing buildings as well. The main aim of the article is to analyze a real fire in apartment building, find out the principle of combustion gasses flow in the staircase with elevator situated in the middle and propose a preliminary solution where the staircase will provide the required level of protection for evacuees. This real fire analysis will create the basis for future simulation.
Fire Stations Deployment in Slovakia, Czech Republic and Germany
Authors: Jurdík Juraj , Mikolai Imrich
Published: October 2014

When defining the number of firefighters and the optimal deployment of fire stations, various factors influencing the development of damage, the consequences of emergencies, but also operational and tactical options firefighting units need to be considered.There are certain obligations in relation to the protection of citizens during fires and incidents delegated to community in Germany, Czech Republic and Slovakia. Appropriate distribution of fire units is realized with respect to the degree of organization of fire protection and its effectiveness can be evaluated for example using the criteria of accessibility of the fire unit.
Sound Insulation Determination of Door
Authors: Dlhý Dušan , Tomašovič Peter
Published: October 2014

The structural complexity of a door causes difficulties in the description of its behavior from an acoustical point of view. In many cases, even a small change can cause a big difference in its sound-isolating properties. To determine the acoustical quality of a door, it is important to perform laboratory measurements of the door structure and door frame, the gaps including. A mathematical analysis based on experimental measurements of the sound reduction index of several door constructions was used to determine the acoustical door categories. The equations for calculating the sound reduction index, which were introduced in this paper, should help in the design of a suitable door from an acoustical point of view.
Operation Energy Consumption after the Renewal of an Elementary School
Authors: Chmúrny Ivan
Published: October 2014

Analysis of energy consumption during the operation of the renewed elementary school in Lietavská Lúčka, which uses renewable energy sources. The results are based on the consumption of natural gas and electricity according to data from the meters of market suppliers of energy from 2006 to 2013.
Optimization of Design of Pitched Roofs According to Phase Shift of Thermal Oscillation
Authors: Buday Peter , Jakeš Erik
Published: October 2014

It is important to take into account some more parameters, e.g. heat transfer coefficient, hygienic criterion or globalised energetic criterion, nowadays. It is a time when there is a big emphasize on thermal protection of residential buildings. Therefore an important calculation parameter is spoken more often - temperature loss and phase shift of thermal oscillation. This two parameters are very important especially in case of building envelopes based on lightweight supporting and used insulation materials. A pitched roof in residential building or family house is a typical example. This problem is growing even more, if we are taking adverse ratio of outer surface to volume of the space into account. This paper is showing analysis of such building envelope construction, its designing and influence on optimal values of phase shift of thermal oscillation.
Theoretical and Experimental Research of Glazed Systems in Real Conditions of Outdoor Climate
Authors: Szabó Ján , Szabó Daniel , Puškár Anton
Published: October 2014

Solar diode glazing unit utilized as a solar energy absorbent. Comparison of glazed systems. Green absorptive glass as a crucial part of heat absorption feature in the composition of solar diode glazing unit. Schemes of function for different outdoor climate conditions. Analysis of physical properties of measured samples. Measurement of heat flows in real climate utilizing a comparative method between solar diode glazing and a standard clear insulated glazing unit of the same standardized U-value. Quantification and conclusions made from the analyzed data.
Influence of Thermal Break Element Applied in Balcony Slab on Internal Surface Temperature
Authors: Buday Peter , Ingeli Rastislav , Čekon Miroslav
Published: October 2014

Reduction of energy use in buildings is an important measure to achieve climate change mitigation. It is essential to minimize heat losses when designing and building energy efficient buildings. For an energy-efficient building in a cold climate, a large part of the space heating demand is caused by transmission losses through the building envelope. To achieve this, it is necessary to have processed a detailed design of buildings. Thermal bridges have to be eliminated in the design of buildings. Thermal bridges occur as point ones or linear. One of the specific details that create thermal leakage is located in balcony slabs. The balcony is one of the main reasons of the increased heat loss of buildings. The presence of thermal bridge in constructions of balcony envelopes influences the energy consumption, durability of the building envelopes, and also the thermal comfort of occupants. This paper is focused on advanced analysis of thermal performance of thermal break element applied in balcony slab with parametric correlation to the thermal properties of wall building envelope.
ESCHERICHIA COLI: AN IMPORTANT PATHOGEN IN PATIENTS WITH HEMATOLOGIC MALIGNANCIES
Authors: Olson Daniel , Yacoub Abraham Tareq , Domingo Gelenis , Greene John Norman
Published: October 2014

AbstractBackgroundEscherichia coli (E. coli) is a pathogen of great concern in immunosuppressed patients.  While antimicrobial prophylactic therapy has become the standard, the emergence of resistant pathogens has some questioning its use.  This study describes our experience with E.coli as a pathogen in neutropenic patients with a hematologic malignancy, and addresses future directions of treatment for this patient population.MethodsA retrospective chart review of 245 E.coli bacteremia patients at Moffitt Cancer Center from 05/18/02 – 05/15/12 was conducted. Patients were identified via microbiology laboratory computerized records.ResultsThe included patients experienced clinically significant E.coli bacteremia resulting in a median hospital stay of 14.7 days.  Several patients developed severe sepsis requiring the use of pressor and ventilator therapy.ConclusionsE.coli is a major pathogen in these patient populations resulting in extended hospital stays and specialized treatment to overcome their E.coli bacteremia. The data supports the use of fluoroquinolone prophylactic therapy, however, earlier detection and treatment of neutropenic infection is needed.
La toxoplasmose et la maladie de Chagas : à propos de cas survenus chez des militaires en Guyane Française, revue sur la contamination par la voie alimentaire en Amazonie
Authors: Marié Jean-Lou , Broucker Charles-Arnaud de , Davoust Bernard
Published: October 2014

In contrast with the usual clinical feature of toxoplasmosis, a cosmopolitan disease, severe cases with visceral disorders have been reported in non-immunocompromised adult patients, particularly in French Guiana. Most of the cases seem to result from the consumption of undercooked game meat or ingestion of non-filtered surface water. In Amazonia, a sylvatic cycle of toxoplasmosis involves large felids as definitive hosts and numerous mammals and birds as intermediate hosts. Atypical strains of

Toxoplasma gondii, characterized by increased virulence, are involved in these complex cycles. Although Chagas disease, caused by another protozoan parasite, Trypanosoma cruzi, has been known for a long time, a new foodborne mode of transmission to man seems to emerge. Several outbreaks have been reported, mainly in Brasil, resulting from the contamination of food items by infected Triatominae or their dejections. When food or water are taken from the natural environment, measures have to be implemented in order to prevent these serious diseases.
Douleurs de l’homme, douleurs des animaux
Authors: Le Bars Daniel
Published: October 2014

La nociception et son expression la plus élaborée sur le plan cognitif, la douleur, constituent un signal d’alarme qui protège l’organisme : elles déclenchent des réactions dont la finalité est de diminuer la cause qui les a provoquées et d’en limiter ainsi les conséquences. Un stimulus nociceptif active un ensemble discret d’organes sensoriels, les nocicepteurs, terminaisons libres de fibres amyéliniques qui tapissent l’ensemble des tissus. Ces nocicepteurs sont polymodaux, c’est-à-dire qu’ils répondent à des stimulus de différentes natures physiques (thermique, mécanique, chimique). Le message nociceptif est relayé dans la corne dorsale de la moelle épinière pour être distribué vers les cornes ventrale et latérale (réflexes somatiques et végétatifs) et dans de nombreuses structures cérébrales, notamment la formation réticulée, le thalamus et plusieurs aires corticales. Ces dernières incluent chez l’homme les cortex somesthésiques primaire et secondaire et surtout les cortex cingulaire et insulaire qui appartiennent au système limbique, essentiel dans la genèse des émotions. Les systèmes nociceptifs sont très anciens dans la phylogenèse. Ce n’est qu’avec l’apparition du cerveau émotionnel (limbique), que l’on peut parler de douleur au sens d’une expérience sensorielle et émotionnelle. Comme l’absence de communication verbale sera toujours un obstacle pour évaluer la douleur de l’animal, il est suggéré que, pour mieux la comprendre, l’incontournable anthropomorphisme se nourrisse des données neuropsychologiques.
Impacts de l’évolution de la consommation des protéines animales sur l’élevage et les éleveurs dans les pays du Sud
Authors: Pangui Louis-Joseph , Kaboret Yalacé Y.
Published: October 2014

Dans les pays du Sud, la consommation des denrées d’origine animale a rapidement augmenté ces dernières décennies, particulièrement en Asie de l’Est et du Sud-Est, et ensuite en Amérique latine et aux Caraïbes. Cela a provoqué une profonde transformation structurelle de l’élevage des animaux terrestres et aquatiques ainsi qu’une surpêche, dans le but d’accroître l’offre de produits animaux et de maintenir les prix à la consommation à des niveaux relativement modérés. Les systèmes de production animale et d’exploitation des ressources halieutiques se sont donc intensifiés, industrialisés et spécialisés. Ils ont souvent intégré verticalement les services de transformation et de commercialisation aux unités de production dans la chaîne de valeur locale, régionale et internationale. Ils ont aussi tiré avantage des innovations technologiques, de la globalisation de l’économie, de la baisse du prix des aliments pour animaux, et des investissements publics et privés. Cependant, le développement de l’élevage intensif à grande échelle et la surexploitation des ressources halieutiques comportent autant d’opportunités pour les pays du Sud que d''externalités sociales, économiques et environnementales négatives. Dès lors, les défis actuels et futurs pour les pays en développement seront de mettre en oeuvre des pratiques alternatives qui garantissent des productions animales et des pêches efficaces et durables.
Laryngopharyngeal Reflux in Dysphonics—Understanding the Significance and the Efficacy of Clinical Diagnosis: A Case-based Study
Authors: Sebastian Swapna , Kolethekkat Arif Ali
Published: October 2014

Objective

To determine the prevalence of laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) in patients with voice disorders and to find out the efficacy of reflux symptom index (RSI) and reflux finding score (RFS) in the diagnosis.

Methods

This prospective analytical study was conducted on 554 patients who presented with dysphonia and symptoms suspicious of LPR. They were then subjected to clinical work up based on symptomatic history based RSI and video stroboscopic RFS scoring criteria. The results were analyzed statistically. The differences between RSI and RFS were calculated by Fisher's two sided test and the comparison between the two is calculated using kappa statistics to check the strength of agreement.

Results

Among 554 patients, 457 (82.4%) patients were diagnosed to have LPR based on RSI score of more than 13. Among 448 (80.8%) patients RFS score was positive. Vocal nodule (23.64%), laryngitis (22.38%) and the vocal polyp (20.03%) constitute the majority, with a female preponderance in vocal nodule. Both RSI and RFS were poor or almost absent in conditions such as spasmodic dysphonia, tremors, vocal cord palsy, hemorrhage, functional aphonia and traumatic conditions. The Pearson correlation coefficient showed a good correlation and agreement between RSI and RFS was statistically significant.

Conclusion

The association of LPR in patients with voice disorders is significantly high. The RSI and RFS based clinical diagnosis is reliable and valid in the diagnosis of LPR as revealed in our study.

How to cite this article

Sebastian S, Kolethekkat AA, Mathew J, Gowri M. Laryngopharyngeal Reflux in Dysphonics— Understanding the Significance and the Efficacy of Clinical Diagnosis: A Case-based Study. Int J Phonosurg Laryngol 2014;4(1):5-9.
Aryepiglottoplasty for Severe Laryngomalacia
Authors: Saxena Akanksha , Kumar Madhumita , Faizal Bini
Published: October 2014

Laryngomalacia is the most common cause of stridor in children below the age of 1 year. In majority of the cases it can be managed conservatively, but in severe cases intervention becomes necessary.

Objectives

To evaluate the outcome of aryepiglottoplasty (Cold steel method) in cases of severe laryngomalacia.

Methods

Retrospective. Review of medical records of 8 cases treated in Department of ENT, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences from 2006 to 2011.

Results

Seven out of eight children had a favorable outcome.

Conclusion

Aryepiglottoplasty (Cold steel method) is an efficient, simple and low cost method for treating severe cases of laryngomalacia.

How to cite this article

Saxena A, Kumar M, Faizal B. Aryepiglottoplasty for Severe Laryngomalacia. Int J Phonosurg Laryngol 2014;4(1):10-12.
Salvaging a Shattered Larynx: A Challenge in Clinical Otorhinolaryngology
Authors: Maraignanam Gopinath , Samuel John , Shinaz Shameena
Published: October 2014

Laryngotracheal trauma is a life-threatening clinical scenario at times. Although considered rare, it is on the rise due to high speed vehicular accidents. Failure to recognize such injuries and promptly secure an airway may have fatal consequences.1We are reporting three cases of laryngotracheal blunt trauma, all of whom subsequently developed absolute dysphagia, difficulty in breathing and difficulty in phonation. These patients were appropriately managed in the critical time period. Two patients were surgically managed and one patient was treated conservatively. They are on regular follow-up and are physiologically stable. In this report, the treatment strategies adopted leading to good clinical outcomes are highlighted.

How to cite this article

Mohanty S, Shinaz S, Maraignanam G, Samuel J. Salvaging a Shattered Larynx: A Challenge in Clinical Otorhinolaryngology. Int J Phonosurg Laryngol 2014;4(1):13-16.
Academisch taalgebruik in het Nederlandse wetenschappelijk onderwijs: stand van zaken en blik op de toekomst
Authors: van Kalsbeek Alice , Kuiken Folkert
Published: October 2014

This article discusses aspects of academic literacy. It first focuses on academic language in general, highlighting its characteristics and the process of academic language acquisition by university students. A review is given of the problems with academic language proficiency of students at Dutch universities and initiatives to improve this proficiency. In the second part, the relation between language and culture in the academic context is the point of focus. Some of the problems with the social and cultural integration of students into the academic world are identified and suggestions for further research are given.
Uncovering the French
Authors: Harrington Paula , Jenn Ronald
Published: October 2014

When most people think of Twain, France does not come to mind. Readers think of the Mississippi River; scholars also connect his work to the American West and the global locales of his travel writing. This article contextualizes Twain's vexed relationship to the French, exploring a complex set of influences, interactions, and experiences. It reads Twain's antipathy as over-determined by everything from his upbringing in a former French territory to his translation skirmish over “Jumping Frog” to his Protestant-inflected conflict over sexual norms. These created a matrix of historical, personal, and professional factors that made him one of America's earliest France-bashers. Yet he was also a lifelong follower of French history, language, and culture. Far from playing little role in Twain's development as an American writer, France and its erased colonial presence contributed to his construction of a new “American” identity on the nineteenth-century world stage.
Clemens and the Campbellites
Authors: Scharnhorst Gary
Published: October 2014

Why do Clemens's encounters with the Campbellites matter? Simply put, because the Campbellites were not as benign as they are usually represented. The sect was virulently anti-Catholic, theological allies of the Know Nothings of the 1840s and '50s. The religious bias was deeply ingrained in Campbellite doctrine, which in its most extreme form identified the pope with the Antichrist or the Beast prophesied in Revelations 20. Clemens never entirely outgrew his anti-Catholic prejudices, and his lifelong antipathy for Catholicism may have originated, ironically, in the Campbellite sermons he heard as a child. For good or ill, the Campbellites left a mark on young Sam Clemens.
Practice patterns of post-radical prostatectomy incontinence surgery in Ontario
Authors: Wallis Christopher , Herschorn Sender , Liu Ying , Carr Lesley , Kodama Ronald T , Klotz Laurence , Saskin Refik , Nam Robert K
Published: October 2014

Introduction: We assess the practice patterns of artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) and urethral sling insertion after radical prostatectomy (RP) from a large population-based cohort.Methods: We examined 25 346 men in Ontario, Canada who underwent RP between 1993 and 2006. Using hospital and cancer registry data, we identified patients who subsequently underwent an incontinence procedure. We characterized the practice patterns of post-prostatectomy incontinence procedures across Ontario during the study interval.Results: A total of 703 (2.8%) men underwent subsequent insertion of an AUS and 282 (1.1%) underwent a urethral sling procedure (985 total incontinence procedures, 3.9%) over the study period. During the study period, 121 hospitals performed RP. Among them, 32 (26%) hospitals performed both RP and AUS/sling procedures, and 89 (74%) performed RP only. Four hospitals performed AUS/sling procedures but not RP. Of the 36 institutions that performed AUS/sling procedures, the median annual case volume was 0.29 (interquartile range: 0.083-0.75). Of all incontinence procedures, 56% were performed at 3 academic institutions. When examining observed rates of AUS/sling procedures compared with expected rates from the overall cohort, 15 of 32 hospitals (47%) performed significantly fewer incontinence procedures than expected given their RP case volume (p range: <0.0001–0.0390) and 5 (16%) performed significantly more (p range: <0.0001–0.038).Conclusions: A small number of academic institutions provide most of the surgical care for men with incontinence following RP in Ontario. Many centres that perform RP refer out to other centres to surgically manage their patients’ incontinence.
Circulating tumour cells in patients with urothelial tumours: Enrichment and in vitro culture
Authors: Bobek Vladimir , Cegan Martin , Kolostova Katarina
Published: October 2014

Introduction: Results of clinical trials have demonstrated that circulating tumour cells (CTCs) are frequently detected in patients with urothelial tumours. The monitoring of CTCs has the potential to improve therapeutic management at an early stage and also to identify patients with increased risk of tumour progression or recurrence before the onset of clinically detected metastasis. In this study, we report a new effectively simplified methodology for a separation and in vitro culturing of viable CTCs from peripheral blood.Method: We include patients diagnosed with 3 types of urothelial tumours (prostate cancer, urinary bladder cancer, and kidney cancer). A size-based separation method for viable CTC - enrichment from unclothed peripheral blood has been introduced (MetaCell, Ostrava, Czech Republic). The enriched CTCs fraction was cultured directly on the separation membrane, or transferred from the membrane and cultured on any plastic surface or a microscopic slide.Results: We report a successful application of a CTCs isolation procedure in patients with urothelial cancers. The CTCs captured on the membrane are enriched with a remarkable proliferation potential. This has enabled us to set up in vitro cell cultures from the viable CTCs unaffected by any fixation buffers, antibodies or lysing solutions. Next, the CTCs were cultured in vitro for a minimum of 10 to 14 days to enable further downstream analysis (e.g., immunohistochemistry).Conclusion: We demonstrated an efficient CTCs capture platform, based on a cell size separation principle. Furthermore, we report an ability to culture the enriched cells – a critical requirement for post-isolation cellular analysis.
Spontaneous bilateral rod fracture of malleable penile prosthesis
Authors: Bozkurt Ibrahim Halil , Yonguc Tarik , Arslan Burak , Kozacioglu Zafer , Degirmenci Tansu , Polat Salih , Minareci Suleyman
Published: October 2014

Mechanical failure with a malleable penile prosthesis is very rare.To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case reporting on a bilateral AMS 650 rod mechanical failure. We present a 50-year-old man with organic erectile dysfunction who experienced bilateral AMS 650 rod fracture after 14 years. The rod fracture of the left side was confirmed via X-ray preoperatively. The surgical exploration revealed a fracture of both rods. After the removal of both rods, we implanted a new malleable device during the same session. At the 6-month follow-up, the patient was satisfied with his prosthesis.
Le carcinome urothélial plasmocytoïde de la vessie : une entité histologique rare au pronostic sombre
Authors: Benazzouz Mohamed Hicham , Essatara Younes , Elsayegh Hachem , Iken Ali , Benslimane Lounis , Znati Kaoutar , Nouini Yassine
Published: October 2014

Introduction : Le carcinome urothélial plasmocytoide est une variante histologique rare du carcinome urothélial . Seul une centaine de cas ont été décrits dans la littérature. Dans cette étude nous rapportons deux nouvelles observations . En combinant nos résultats à ceux des différentes séries décrites dans la littérature , nous essayons de définir les caractéristiques cliniques et pathologiques ainsi que l’approche thérapeutique dans cette pathologie. Observations :2 nouveaux cas de carcinome urothélial plasmocytoide ont été diagnostiqués et pris en charge dans notre structure . les 2 patients étaient de sexe masculin et l’âge moyen était de 76 ans . L’hématurie était le principal  symptôme . Les 2 patients ont eu une résection trans-urétrale de la vessie . Le stade tumoral au moment du diagnostic était avancé dans les 2 cas (respectivement T3N0M0 et T3N1M0) .Les 2 patients ont été traité par une cystoprostatectomie . L’analyse histologique de la pièce opératoire complétée par une étude immunohistochimique confirmait le diagnostic de  carcinome urothélial plasmocytoide.  Le premier patient est décédé après 1 mois d’une embolie pulmonaire. Le deuxième est décédé après 2 mois après avoir reçu 2 cures de chimiothérapie adjuvante. Les données recueillies à travers les différentes séries décrites dans la littérature vont dans le même sens de nos données avec un stade avancé au moment du diagnostic et un pronostic sombre. Conclusion : Le carcinome urothélial plasmocytoide est une variante histologique rare et agressive. Le diagnostic se fait souvent à un stade avancé et le pronostic est sombre. Le traitement est le plus souvent basé sur une cystectomie suivie d’une chimiothérapie adjuvante à base de cis platine. L’intérêt d’une chimiothérapie néo-adjuvante n’a pas encore été établi.
Management of ureteral obstruction in crossed fused renal ectopia: A case report
Authors: Bhojwani Nicholas , Hartman Jason Brett , Ahmed Manzoor , Morgan Robert , Davidson Jon C
Published: October 2014

Crossed fused renal ectopia is a rare congenital malformation. We describe a case in which a 58-year-old male with left-sided crossed fused renal ectopia presented with urinary bladder outlet obstruction due to metastatic prostate adenocarcinoma. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was 13 mL/min, creatinine 4 mg/dL, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) 58 mg/dL. The patient underwent successful image-guided placement of percutaneous nephrostomy tubes which were later converted to nephroureteral stents. Labs improved to a GFR of 28 mL/min, creatinine of 2.4 mg/dL, and BUN of 41 mg/dL. In this case standard image-guided renal decompression techniques were effective in treating a patient with crossed fused renal ectopia.
Bone mineral density status in urolithiasis patients with vitamin D inadequacy followed at a tertiary stone centre
Authors: Elkoushy Mohamed Aly , Jundi Mazen , Lee Terence T.N. , Andonian Sero
Published: October 2014

Introduction: We assessed abnormalities in bone mineral density (BMD) and the risk of hip and major osteoporotic fractures in urolithiasis patients with vitamin D inadequacy (VDI) followed at a tertiary stone centre.Methods: Stone-free patients with VDI were invited to undergo dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans to assess for BMD abnormalities at the femoral neck and lumbar spine. The World Health Organization’s validated Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX) was used to calculate the risk of hip and major osteoporotic fractures within 10 years. Patients with primary hyperparathyroidism or hypercalcemia were excluded.Results: In total, 50 consecutive patients were included between June 2011 and August 2012, including 26 (52%) males. The median age was 51 years and the median 25-hydroxyl vitamin D (25[OH]D) was 18.8 ng/mL. Thirty patients (60%) had abnormal T-scores on DXA studies. This decreased to 22 (44%) when age-matched Z-scores were used; 36% had osteopenia and 8% had osteoporosis. Femoral neck and lumbar spines were affected in 24% and 32% of patients, respectively. Recurrent stone-formers had significantly lower BMD when compared with first-time stone-formers. Median serum 25(OH)D was comparable between patients with normal and abnormal DXA scans (18.6 vs. 18.8 ng/mL; p = 0.91). Five patients (10%) were at high risk (≥3%) of hip fractures within 10 years.Conclusion: A high prevalence of abnormal DXA scans was found in urolithiasis patients with VDI, including 5 patients (10%) at high risk of hip fractures. Future studies need to assess the economic impact of obtaining DXA scans on urolithiasis patients with VDI, especially in recurrent stone-formers.
Laparoscopic nephrectomy for massive polycystic kidney disease: Updated technique and outcomes
Authors: Bansal Rahul K , Kapoor Anil
Published: October 2014

Introduction: We present our technique of laparoscopic nephrectomy for massive polycystic kidneys in patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) and review the outcome analysis of our experience.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed all transperitoneal laparoscopic nephrectomies done for polycystic kidneys at a university hospital. Our technique included three 12-mm ports with additional one or two 5-mm ports, with usage of retraction devices, such as the Jarit PEER retractor (J. Jamner Surgical Instruments, Inc, Hawthorne, NY).Results: In total, 39 (left 14, right 25) laparoscopic nephrectomies were performed in 32 patients (male 21, female 11). Surgical indications were varied: to create space for future renal transplant in 21 (54%), to alleviate pain in 16 (41%), to prevent recurrent urosepsis in 2 (5%), to prevent recurrent bleeding which would require transfusions in 2 (5%) and to remove a renal tumour in 1 kidney (2.5%). Four patients had surgery for more than one reason. The mean age and body mass index were 52.2 years (range: 29-72) and 26.9 kg/m2 (range: 21.6-34.0), respectively. The mean preoperative hemoglobin and serum creatinine levels were 131.6 g/L (range: 107-171) and 514 μmol/L (range: 84-923), respectively; 26 (81%) patients were on dialysis. The mean operative time and estimated blood loss were 185 minutes (range: 113-287) and 94 mL (range:10-350), respectively. No patient required open conversion. The mean specimen size was 24.2 cm (range: 15-38); weight 1515 g (range: 412-4590) and the length of extraction incision was 9.2 cm (range: 6-13). There were 1 Grade 2 2 (2.5%), 2 Grade 3b (5%) and 1 Grade 4a-d (2.5%) complications. The mean length of stay was 4.5 days (range: 3-8).Conclusions: Our technique of laparoscopic nephrectomy for massively enlarged polycystic kidneys in ADPKD is safe and offers all the advantages of minimal access surgery, such as smaller incision, decreased estimated blood loss, excellent cosmesis and faster recovery.
Metachronous adrenal metastasis from operated contralateral renal cell carcinoma with adrenalectomy and iatrogenic Addison’s disease
Authors: Öztürk Hakan , Karaaslan Serap
Published: October 2014

Metachronous adrenal metastasis from contralateral renal cell carcinoma (RCC) surgery is an extremely rare condition. Iatrogenic Addison’s disease occurring after metastasectomy (adrenalectomy) is an even rarer clinical entity. We present a case of a 68-year-old male with hematuria and left flank pain 9 years prior. The patient underwent left transperitoneal radical nephrectomy involving the ipsilateral adrenal glands due to a centrally-located, 75-mm in diameter solid mass lesion in the upper pole of the left kidney. The tumour lesion was confined within the renal capsule, and the histopathological examination revealed a Fuhrman nuclear grade II clear cell carcinoma. The patient underwent transperitoneal right adrenalectomy. The histopathological examination revealed metastasis of clear cell carcinoma. The patient was diagnosed with iatrogenic Addison’s disease based on the measurement of serum cortisol levels and the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation test, after which glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid replacement was initiated. The patient did not have local recurrence or new metastasis in the first year of the follow-up. The decision to perform ipsilateral adrenalectomy during radical nephrectomy constitutes a challenge, and the operating surgeon must consider all these rare factors.
The impact of resident involvement in minimally-invasive urologic oncology procedures
Authors: Ruhotina Nedim , Dagenais Julien , Gandaglia Giorgio , Sood Akshay , Abdollah Firas , Chang Steven L , Leow Jeffrey J , Olugbade Jr. Kola , Rai Arun , Sammon Jesse D , Schmid Marianne , Varda Briony , Zorn Kevin C , Menon Mani , Kibel Adam S , Trinh Quoc-Dien
Published: October 2014

Introduction: Robotic and laparoscopic surgical training is an integral part of resident education in urology, yet the effect of resident involvement on outcomes of minimally-invasive urologic procedures remains largely unknown. We assess the impact of resident participation on surgical outcomes using a large multi-institutional prospective database.Methods: Relying on the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) Participant User Files (2005-2011), we abstracted the 3 most frequently performed minimally-invasive urologic oncology procedures. These included radical prostatectomy, radical nephrectomy and partial nephrectomy. Multivariable logistic regression models were constructed to assess the impact of trainee involvement (PGY 1-2: junior, PGY 3-4: senior, PGY ≥5: chief) versus attending-only on operative time, length-of-stay, 30-day complication, reoperation and readmission rates.Results: A total of 5459 minimally-invasive radical prostatectomies,1740 minimally-invasive radical nephrectomies and 786 minimally-invasive partial nephrectomies were performed during the study period, for which data on resident surgeon involvement was available. In multivariable analyses, resident involvement was not associated with increased odds of overall complications, reoperation, or readmission rates for minimally-invasive prostatectomy, radical and partial nephrectomy. However, operative time was prolonged when residents were involved irrespective of the type of procedure. Length-of-stay was decreased with senior resident involvement in minimally-invasive partial nephrectomies (odds ratio [OR] 0.49, p = 0.04) and prostatectomies (OR 0.68, p = 0.01). The major limitations of this study include its retrospective observational design, inability to adjust for the case complexity and surgeon/hospital characteristics, and the lack of information regarding the minimally-invasive approach utilized (whether robotic or laparoscopic).Conclusions: Resident involvement is associated with increased operative time in minimally-invasive urologic oncology procedures. However, it does not adversely affect the complication, reoperation or readmission rates, as well as length-of-stay.
Dynamic contrast enhanced MRI as a predictor of vascular-targeted photodynamic focal ablation therapy outcome in prostate cancer post failed external beam radiation therapy
Authors: Barrett Tristan , Davidson Sean R.H. , Wilson Brian C. , Weersink Robert A. , Trachtenberg John , Haider Masoom A.
Published: October 2014

Introduction: Photodynamic therapy (PDT) can be employed as a focal therapy for prostate cancer. Dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can potentially help identify tumour recurrence after failed external-beam radiotherapy (EBRT). The purpose of this study was to determine the ability of DCE-MRI to predict early response to PDT salvage treatment.Methods: Patients with post-EBRT prostate cancer recurrence were prospectively enrolled into a Phase I/II trial of PDT using WST09. A 15-patient subgroup of this cohort undergoing 1.5T DCE-MRI at baseline and 1-week post-PDT was retrospectively analyzed. The reference standard was prostate biopsy obtained 6 months post-PDT. Analysis was performed on a patient-by-patient basis, by prostate gland halves, and by prostate sextants.Results: Biopsy 6 months post-PDT identified cancer in 10/15 patients (66.7%), and in 24/90 sextants (26.7%). Residual cancer was identified in 22/37 sextants (59.5%) identified as being involved at baseline. DCE-MRI at 1 week correctly predicted recurrent disease with a sensitivity of 100% (10/10), specificity of 60% (3/5), positive predictive value of 83.3% (10/12), negative predictive value of 100% (3/3), and an overall accuracy of 86.7%, (13/15). When analysis was performed on prostate halves, the sensitivity and negative predictive value remained at 100%, with an improvement in specificity to 88.2% (15/17). The overall accuracy of DCE-MRI was similar regardless of analysis method: 86.7% on a patient-by-patient basis, 86.7% by prostate half and 83.3% by sextant. Changes in prostate-specific antigen (PSA) did not correlate to response.Conclusion: DCE-MRI shows promise as a tool to predict successful outcome when performed 1 week post-PDT and could potentially be used to inform the need for re-treatment at an early time-point.
Seminoma presented as testicular rupture: Case report and literature review
Authors: Lunawat Rahul , Craciun Marius , Omorphos Savvas , Weston Philip MT , Biyani Shekhar C
Published: October 2014

Rupture of the testis as a result of blunt trauma is rarely seen in daily urological practice. We report an unusual case of incidental seminoma diagnosed after surgical exploration and subsequent orchidectomy of a severed testis following testicular injury as a result of trivial blunt trauma. This case highlights the inability of investigative tools, such as a scrotal ultrasound, in distinguishing an underlying tumour in the presence of testicular parenchymal damage. We therefore advocate a high index of clinical suspicion for co-existing pathology in cases of testicular rupture secondary to an insignificant blunt trauma to the scrotum.
Online only: Which Czech young adults prefer online civic participation?
Authors: Šerek Jan , Machackova Hana
Published: October 2014

This study examined whether people who prefer online over offline civic participation differ from those who participate in both environments, who prefer offline participation, or do not participate. Using a cross-sectional sample of young adults (age 18-28) recruited in the Czech Republic (N = 720), we compared these four groups (defined by their types of civic participation) regarding their socio-demographic profiles, trust (social, individual, and in the media), relationship to politics (political interest, exposure to politics in the media, and internal political efficacy), and political ideology (left-right orientation, concern with environmental issues, and support for immigrants’ rights). Results showed that people who prefer online participation adhere to conservative political ideologies than people with other types of participation. Their relationship to politics is as positive as in the case of people active in both environments. No substantial differences in trust and socio-demographics were found.
The culture and politics of Internet use among young people in Kuwait
Authors: Kaposi Ildiko
Published: October 2014

While Kuwait has not joined the Arab Spring wave, there is considerable political and social turmoil in the tiny emirate. The turmoil is, for the most part, contained within the framework of Kuwait’s indigenous democratic institutions but the lines that used to clearly delineate acceptable public norms of speech and action are becoming increasingly blurred. One factor contributing to the changes is the influence new media technologies have on Kuwaiti society, especially on youth. The paper focuses on the meanings and democratic potentials of the internet for youth in the context of the Gulf Arab country of Kuwait. Through an ethnographic approach and in-depth interviews, it explores how new media reconfigure complex social, cultural, and political relationships, potentially enabling different forms of public engagement in the process.
Cloning and expression of a hypothetical Loosenin from Neurospora crassa
Authors: Campos-Oliver Aranzazu , Quiroz-Castañeda Rosa Estela , Ortiz-Suri Ernesto , Folch-Mallol Jorge Luis
Published: October 2014

La loosenina es una proteína descrita recientemente que presenta actividad amorfogénica sobre la celulosa. Se aisló a partir del hongo Basidiomiceto Bjerkandera adusta y facilita el desprendimiento de azúcares reductores a partir de fibras celulósicas tratadas previamente con ella y posteriormente expuestas a tratamiento con celulasas. Puede unirse a otros polisacáridos como quitina y xylanos aunque no presenta actividad hidrolítica por sí misma. En un análisis Blast empleando la secuencia de aminoácidos de la loosenina se localizó una secuencia del genoma de Neurospora crassa que mostró 59% de similitud. En el presente trabajo, clonamos, expresamos y caracterizamos parcialmente una posible looenina de N. crassa, debido a que estas proteínas tienen potencial para el pretratamiento de materiales lignocelulósicos.
Apparent timing and duration of the Matuyama‐Brunhes geomagnetic reversal in Chinese loess
Authors: Zhao Hui , Qiang Xiaoke , Sun Youbin
Published: October 2014

The Matuyama‐Brunhes (MB) geomagnetic reversal in Chinese loess has been studied extensively as an important boundary for land‐ocean stratigraphic and paleoclimatic correlations. However, the apparent timing and duration of the MB boundary remain controversial in Chinese loess deposits due to its inconsistent stratigraphic position and the uncertain chronologies. Here we synthesized high‐resolution paleomagnetic records from four loess sequences in the central Chinese Loess Plateau and synchronized the loess‐paleosol chronology by matching the grain‐size variations to orbitally tuned grain‐size time series. The synthesized paleomagnetic results reveal consistent features of the MB transition in Chinese loess, including the stratigraphic position (L8/S8 transition), timing (∼808–826 ka), duration (∼14–16 ka), and rapid directional oscillations. Compared with the MB transition in marine records (770–775 ka), the timing of the MB transition is relatively older and longer in Chinese loess, due to a complex interplay between different remanence acquisition mechanisms which occurred during the course of postdepositional physical and chemical processes.
Inner magnetospheric onset preceding reconnection and tail dynamics during substorms: Can substorms initiate in two different regions?
Authors: Murphy Kyle R. , Mann Ian R. , Rae I. Jonathan , Walsh Andrew P. , Frey Harald U.
Published: October 2014

We present a detailed ground‐based and in situ examination of two substorms on 9 April 2011 providing one of the most detailed observations of a series of activations to date. Using auroral observations we demonstrate that the initial signature of substorm onset is a localized brightening on closed field lines. In both cases auroral onset precedes any geosynchronous indications of substorm onset. Despite excellent in situ coverage of the near‐midnight plasma sheet there is no evidence of tail flows or topological changes which might indicate the initiation of reconnection and related disturbances prior to auroral onset. Similarly, no auroral streamers are observed prior to either onset. For the second substorm, following auroral onset and dipolarization of the geosynchronous field there is evidence of a rapid thinning of the plasma sheet followed by a secondary auroral activation and dipolarization of the magnetotail outside of geosynchronous orbit. This morphological change suggests that near‐Earth neutral line reconnection is eventually triggered in the tail, but only following the earlier auroral onset. These observations demonstrate that expansion phase onset is not always initiated by reconnection in the tail. Finally, our observations suggest that activations at the near‐Earth neutral line, or related to plasma instabilities and near‐Earth onset, can develop independently during expansion phase onset. In this paradigm, free energy stored during the growth phase can be stored in the stretched tail and the inner magnetosphere where the dipole field begins to stretch. During expansion phase onset either region could become unstable, independent of the other, leading to substorm initiation and onset.