Purpose: We compare bipolar vs monopolar transurethral prostate resection safety/secondary outcomes including efficacy in patients with large prostate volume or severe lower urinary tract symptoms.Materials and Methods: From July 2006 to June 2009 candidates for transurethral prostate resection were recruited at 4 centers, randomized 1: 1 into monopolar/bipolar transurethral prostate resection arms and followed up to 36 months. Post hoc data analysis from patients with large prostate volume or severe lower urinary tract symptoms is presented. Patients with large prostate volume or severe lower urinary tract symptoms were defined as those with transrectal ultrasound based prostate volume greater than 80 ml or International Prostate Symptom Score greater than 19. Safety was estimated using sodium/hemoglobin changes immediately after surgery, complications during the early postoperative period (up to 6 weeks), and short-term (up to 12 months) and midterm (up to 36 months) followup. Secondary outcomes included, among others, efficacy quantified by changes in maximum urine flow rate, post-void residual urine volume and International Prostate Symptom Score compared with baseline.Results: A total of 279 patients were randomized. Post hoc analysis of data from patients with a large prostate volume or severe lower urinary tract symptoms was based on analysis A-in 62 of 279 participants (22.3%) (monopolar transurethral prostate resection 32, bipolar transurethral prostate resection 30) or analysis B-in 126 of 279 participants (45.2%) (monopolar transurethral prostate resection 57, bipolar transurethral prostate resection 69). Mean (SD) prostate volume was 108.0 (25.9) ml for monopolar transurethral prostate resection and 108.9 (23.4) ml for bipolar transurethral prostate resection (p = 0.756). Mean International Prostate Symptom Score was 25.0 (4.2) for monopolar transurethral prostate resection and 25.3 (3.7) for bipolar transurethral prostate resection (p = 0.402). Neither safety nor any secondary outcome differed significantly between the arms throughout followup. The only exception was the decrease in sodium (analysis A), which was significantly greater after monopolar transurethral prostate resection (-4.2 vs -0.7 mmol/l, p = 0.023) and did not translate into a significant difference in transurethral resection syndrome rates (monopolar transurethral prostate resection 1 of 32 vs bipolar transurethral prostate resection 0 of 30, p = 1.000).Conclusions: Bipolar and monopolar transurethral prostate resection show similar safety/efficacy in these patient subpopulations.

Azobenzenealkanethiols in self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) on Au(111) exhibit reversible trans-cis photoisomerization when diluted with alkanethiol spacers. Using these mixed SAMs, we show switching of the linear optical and second-harmonic response. The effective switching of these surface optical properties relies on a reasonably large cross section and a high photoisomerization yield as well as a long lifetime of the metastable cis isomer. We quantified the switching process by X-ray absorption spectroscopy. The cross sections for the trans-cis and cis-trans photoisomerization with 365 and 455 nm light, respectively, are 1 order of magnitude smaller than in solution. In vacuum, the 365 nm photostationary state comprises 50-74% of the molecules in the cis form, limited by their rapid thermal isomerization back to the trans state. In contrast, the 455 nm photostationary state contains nearly 100% trans-azobenzene. We determined time constants for the thermal cis-trans isomerization of only a few minutes in vacuum and in a dry nitrogen atmosphere but of more than 1 day in ambient air. Our results suggest that adventitious water adsorbed on the surface of the SAM stabilizes the polar cis configuration of azobenzene under ambient conditions. The back reaction rate constants differing by 2 orders of magnitude underline the huge influence of the environment and, accordingly, its importance when comparing various experiments.

Interfaces between organic molecules and solid surfaces play a prominent role in heterogeneous catalysis, molecular sensors and switches, light-emitting diodes, and photovoltaics. The properties and the ensuing function of such hybrid interfaces often depend exponentially on molecular adsorption heights and binding strengths, calling for well-established benchmarks of these two quantities. Here we present systematic measurements that enable us to quantify the interaction of benzene with the Ag(111) coinage metal substrate with unprecedented accuracy (0.02 Å in the vertical adsorption height and 0.05 eV in the binding strength) by means of normal-incidence x-ray standing waves and temperature-programed desorption techniques. Based on these accurate experimental benchmarks for a prototypical molecule-solid interface, we demonstrate that recently developed first-principles calculations that explicitly account for the nonlocality of electronic exchange and correlation effects are able to determine the structure and stability of benzene on the Ag(111) surface within experimental error bars. Remarkably, such precise experiments and calculations demonstrate that despite different electronic properties of copper, silver, and gold, the binding strength of benzene is equal on the (111) surface of these three coinage metals. Our results suggest the existence of universal binding energy trends for aromatic molecules on surfaces.

We investigate the surface-catalyzed dissociation of the archetypal molecular switch azobenzene on the Cu(111) surface. Based on X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, normal incidence X-ray standing waves and density functional theory calculations a detailed picture of the coverage-induced formation of phenyl nitrene from azobenzene is presented. Furthermore, a comparison to the azobenzene/Ag(111) interface provides insight into the driving force behind the dissociation on Cu(111). The quantitative decay of azobenzene paves the way for the creation of a defect free, covalently bonded monolayer. Our work suggests a route of surface functionalization via suitable azobenzene derivatives and the on surface synthesis concept, allowing for the creation of complex immobilized molecular systems.

The combination of photochromic and nonlinear optical (NLO) properties of azobenzene-functionalized self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) constitutes an intriguing step towards novel photonic and optoelectronic devices. By utilizing the second-order NLO process of second harmonic generation (SHG), supported by density-functional theory and correlated wave function method calculations, we demonstrate that the photochromic interface provides the necessary prerequisites en route towards possible future technical applications: we find a high NLO contrast on the order of 16% between the switching states. These are furthermore accessible reversibly and with high efficiencies in terms of cross sections on the order of 10(-18) cm(2) for both photoisomerization reactions, i.e., drivable by means of low-power LED light sources. Finally, both photostationary states (PSSs) are thermally stable at ambient conditions.

Incorporating photochromic molecules into organic/inorganic hybrid materials may lead to photoresponsive systems. In such systems, the second-order nonlinear properties can be controlled via external stimulation with light at an appropriate wavelength. By creating photochromic molecular switches containing self-assembled monolayers on Si(111), we can demonstrate efficient reversible switching, which is accompanied by a pronounced modulation of the nonlinear optical (NLO) response of the system. The concept of utilizing functionalized photoswitchable Si surfaces could be a way for the generation of two-dimensional NLO switching materials, which are promising for applications in photonic and optoelectronic devices.

You have accessJournal of UrologyProstate Cancer: Localized V1 Apr 2014MP51-08 FACTORS LEADING TO PROLONGED CATHETER TIME AFTER LAPAROSCOPIC AND ROBOTIC-ASSISTED LAPAROSCOPIC RADICAL PROSTATECTOMY Marcel Hruza, Jan Klein, Ali Goezen, Michael Schulze, and Jens Rassweiler Marcel HruzaMarcel Hruza More articles by this author , Jan KleinJan Klein More articles by this author , Ali GoezenAli Goezen More articles by this author , Michael SchulzeMichael Schulze More articles by this author , and Jens RassweilerJens Rassweiler More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.juro.2014.02.1664AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookTwitterLinked InEmail Introduction and Objectives On day 7 after laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP) / robotic-assisted LRP (RALP), we usually do a cystogram and remove the foley catheter when watertightness of the anastomosis is shown. Prolonged catheter time is defined as necessity to leave the catheter due to leakage in this first cystogram. In these patients, a second cystogram is performed 10-14 days after surgery to re-access the anastomosis. The objective of this study is to investigate the occurrence of prolonged catheter time in a large single-institutional cohort and to identify parameters leading to prolonged catheter time. Methods Time to removal of the catheter was available in 2772 of the 2800 first consecutive patients who underwent LRP / RALP in our institution. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to investigate the relationship between operative parameters / patient characteristics and prolonged catheter time. Results Mean time to catheter removal was 12.1 days, standard deviation 9.3 days, median 7 days. The difference between the first 700 patients (mean time to catheter removal 13.9 days) and the last 700 (mean time 9.8 days) was statistically significant (p < 0.0001). Prolonged catheter time was observed in 926 of 2772 patients (33.4 %). Multivariate analysis showed interrupted suture for vesicourethral anastomosis, non-nerve sparing technique, non-bladder neck sparing technique, leakage of the anastomosis when the bladder is filled during surgery and an operating room time > 4 hours as significant predictors of prolonged catheter time (p < 0.05). Other factors (surgeon, use of the robot, use of the Rocco stitch, weight of the prostate, Gleason score, previous transurethral resection of the prostate) showed significance in univariate, but not in multivariate analysis. Age, body mass index and pathological tumor stage had no significant impact on catheter time. Conclusions The operative technique is the key factor to achieve a short catheter time after LRP / RALP. A running suture for vesicourethral anastomosis, nerve sparing and bladder neck sparing technique, watertightness of the anastomosis during surgery and a short operating room time showed significant influence. Catheter time is neither depending on patient characteristics (age, weight, size of the prostate), nor on pathological characteristics. © 2014FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 191Issue 4SApril 2014Page: e600 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2014MetricsAuthor Information Marcel Hruza More articles by this author Jan Klein More articles by this author Ali Goezen More articles by this author Michael Schulze More articles by this author Jens Rassweiler More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

Understanding the photoinduced ultrafast charge transfer (CT) dynamics across the donor/acceptor interface is a prerequisite for optimizing the performance of organic photovoltaic devices. Time-resolved second harmonic generation, an interface-sensitive probe with femtosecond temporal resolution, is applied to investigate the well-defined single heterojunction C60/P3HT. The de-excitation of hot singlet excitons in the conduction bands of the polymer into localized excitonic states is observed. In the presence of the electron acceptor, the ultrafast population of a CT state is identified as the dominating relaxation channel. Interestingly, the charge transfer yield correlates with the excitation wavelength and rises with increasing excess energy.

Temperature-programmed desorption measurements have been applied to investigate the binding energies of four systems, namely the photochromic molecular compounds azobenzene and tetra-tert-butyl-azobenzene (TBA) adsorbed on the Au(111) and Ag(111) surfaces, respectively. The binding energy is a measure of the interaction strength between substrate and adsorbate. It therefore provides a suitable means for an investigation of the decoupling strategy pursued by adding the tert-butyl spacer groups and choosing the more inert gold substrate, which leads to TBA/Au(111), the only photoisomerizable system out of the four. Ironically, we find TBA/Au(111) to be the most strongly bound. The binding of TBA to Au(111) is almost 0.4 eV stronger than to Ag(111). On the other hand, azobenzene binds approximately equally strongly to both surfaces. These findings are consistent with and provide support for the recently proposed hybridization between the HOMO of TBA and the Au(111) d-band needed for the hole attachment which induces the isomerization.

We compare bipolar vs monopolar transurethral prostate resection safety/secondary outcomes including efficacy in patients with large prostate volume or severe lower urinary tract symptoms.From July 2006 to June 2009 candidates for transurethral prostate resection were recruited at 4 centers, randomized 1:1 into monopolar/bipolar transurethral prostate resection arms and followed up to 36 months. Post hoc data analysis from patients with large prostate volume or severe lower urinary tract symptoms is presented. Patients with large prostate volume or severe lower urinary tract symptoms were defined as those with transrectal ultrasound based prostate volume greater than 80 ml or International Prostate Symptom Score greater than 19. Safety was estimated using sodium/hemoglobin changes immediately after surgery, complications during the early postoperative period (up to 6 weeks), and short-term (up to 12 months) and midterm (up to 36 months) followup. Secondary outcomes included, among others, efficacy quantified by changes in maximum urine flow rate, post-void residual urine volume and International Prostate Symptom Score compared with baseline.A total of 279 patients were randomized. Post hoc analysis of data from patients with a large prostate volume or severe lower urinary tract symptoms was based on analysis A—in 62 of 279 participants (22.3%) (monopolar transurethral prostate resection 32, bipolar transurethral prostate resection 30) or analysis B—in 126 of 279 participants (45.2%) (monopolar transurethral prostate resection 57, bipolar transurethral prostate resection 69). Mean (SD) prostate volume was 108.0 (25.9) ml for monopolar transurethral prostate resection and 108.9 (23.4) ml for bipolar transurethral prostate resection (p=0.756). Mean International Prostate Symptom Score was 25.0 (4.2) for monopolar transurethral prostate resection and 25.3 (3.7) for bipolar transurethral prostate resection (p=0.402). Neither safety nor any secondary outcome differed significantly between the arms throughout followup. The only exception was the decrease in sodium (analysis A), which was significantly greater after monopolar transurethral prostate resection (–4.2 vs –0.7 mmol/l, p=0.023) and did not translate into a significant difference in transurethral resection syndrome rates (monopolar transurethral prostate resection 1 of 32 vs bipolar transurethral prostate resection 0 of 30, p=1.000).Bipolar and monopolar transurethral prostate resection show similar safety/efficacy in these patient subpopulations.

PURPOSE:The objective of this randomized in-vitro study was to compare the suturation time, integrity, and quality of the bladder closure in fresh cadaver pig bladders performed with barbed polyglyconate sutures vs polyglactin 910 sutures in running and interrupted fashion.MATERIALS AND METHODS:Forty-eight pig bladders, each weighing from 120 to 150 g, were randomly divided into three groups: Group 1 (interrupted polyglactin 910 suture group), group 2 (running polyglactin 910 suture group), and group 3 (running barbed polyglyconate suture group). The bladder defects were closed laparoscopically, and the suturation times were noted. Two surgeons evaluated the integrity of each bladder closure. A cystometry was performed, and the filling and leak pressures were noted. A Kruskal-Wallis variance analysis test was used to compare the results of the three groups, and P<0.05 was considered significant.RESULTS:There was a statistically significant difference between the mean suturation times of three groups: Group 1, 15.2 minutes; group 2, 9.14 minutes; and group 3, 7.13 minutes (P<0.05). Mean bladder capacity at the time of leakage was 276.2, 353.8, and 419.7 mL for groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05).CONCLUSION:For the first time, we demonstrated laparoscopic knotless closure of bladder defects using the barbed polyglyconate suture material in an experimental in-vitro model. Closing the pig bladder with running knotless barbed suture provides a more effective and faster watertight bladder closure than traditional polyglactin 910 suture material.