An overview of dynamical methods for studying transitions between states in sheared plasma flows.

The self-organization of structures in a tokamak plasma as it undergoes an [Formula: see text]-mode transition shows properties similar to simpler shear flow configurations. We will describe recent dynamical studies of plasma shear flows, including the idea of tracking the edge of chaos that separates two bistable states, computing the nonlinear minimal seed that can lead to turbulence, finding the attractor solution on the edge and seeing how starting from this solution we can understand the stability of relative period orbits that permeate the turbulent basin of attraction. We present a modus operandi developed for these simple configurations that can be adapted to understand the [Formula: see text]-mode transition.

Dual-energy KUB radiographic examination for the detection of renal calculus.

Rationale And Objectives: The dual-energy radiographic technique has been proved to be clinically useful in the thorax. Herein, we attempt to apply this technique to the abdomen and pelvis in the context of renal colic.

Materials And Methods: The visibility of renal calculi were assessed using various dual energy peak kilovoltage combination radiographs applied to standard phantoms.

Growth kinetics of renal masses: analysis of a prospective cohort of patients undergoing active surveillance.

Background: Active surveillance (AS) represents a treatment option for renal masses in patients who are not surgical candidates either because of existing comorbidities or patient choice. Among renal masses undergoing AS, some grow rapidly and require treatment or progress to metastatic disease. Patient and tumour characteristics related to this more aggressive behaviour have been poorly studied.