bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ZnO Nanoforest Based New Generation Dye Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Dave Pragnesh N. , Malpani Puneet R.
Published: October 2013

ZnO is gaining importance in the electronics industry because of its availability of large sized single crystals, strong luminescence demonstrated in optically pumped lasers and the possibility of gaining control over its electrical conductivity. Dye Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSCs) is a photoelectrochemical system that incorporates a porous structured wide-bandgap oxide semiconductor (TiO2 or ZnO) film as the photosensitized anode that offers increased surface area for dye molecule adsorption. ZnO Nanoforest is comprised of high density, branched ZnO nanowire photoanodes. The overall light-conversion efficiency of the branched ZnO nanowire DSSCs is almost 5 times higher than the efficiency of DSSCs constructed by upstanding ZnO nanowires. The efficiency increase is due to increased surface area for higher dye loading and light harvesting, and also due to reduced charge recombination phenomena by providing direct conduction pathways along the crystalline ZnO nanoforest.
The use ofCerceris fumipennis(Hymenoptera: Crabronidae) for surveying and monitoring emerald ash borer (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) infestations in eastern North America
Authors: Careless Philip , Marshall Stephen A. , Gill Bruce D.
Published: October 2013

The beetle-hunting wasp,Cerceris fumipennisSay (Hymenoptera: Crabronidae), native to eastern North America, provisions its subterranean nest almost exclusively with adult metallic wood-boring beetles (Coleoptera: Buprestidae), including the destructive emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennisFairmaire, EAB). This wasp provides a unique opportunity to survey indigenous and nonindigenous buprestid diversity. We discuss the accessibility, sustainability, and productivity ofC. fumipenniswith respect to its application as a buprestid surveying and monitoring tool.
Transported cataclasite, ophiolite and granodiorite in the Yukon: evidence of arc-continent collision
Authors: Tempelman-Kluit D J
Published: October 2013

Allochthonous Mesozoic and/or upper Paleozoic siliceous mylonite. sheared ophiolite and cataclastic granitic rocks are preserved in klippen above autochthonous, structurally imbricated Paleozoic and lower Mesozoic North American shelfstrata in central Yukon. The
siliceous mylonite may be a trench melange the ophiolite oceanic forarc floor and the granitic rocks the roots of a northeast facing Early Mesozoic arc later accreted to North America. If so they imply that the arc system was partly thrust over the early Mesozoic North American margin. Northeast
polarity of the arc suggests that it formed above southwestward subducting oceanic lithosphere and that the arc - continent suture marks a major closed ocean. This ocean may have spread in the Late Paleozoic and closed in the mid-Jurassic. Northeast abduction provides one continuous model for
accreting the Early Mesozoic arc to North America for forming the [ore land [old and thrust belt, and for forming late-tectonic quartz monzonite plutons. It relates variations in the width o[ the [old belt to the degree of arc abduction. The duration and rates of the events are comparable to those
in other mountain belts and subdue lion complexes
Tigecycline activity against metallo-β-lactamase-producing bacteria
Authors: Kumar Simit , Bandyopadhyay Maitreyi , Mondal Soma , Pal Nupur , Ghosh Tapashi , Bandyopadhyay Manas , Banerjee Parthajit
Published: October 2013

Backgound: Treatment of serious life-threatening multi-drug-resistant organisms poses a serious problem due to the limited therapeutic options. Tigecycline has been recently marketed as a broad-spectrum antibiotic with activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Even though many studies have demonstrated the activity of tigecycline against ESBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae, its activity is not well-defi ned against micro-organisms producing metallo-β-lactamases (MBLs), as there are only a few reports and the number of isolates tested is limited. Aims: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the activity of tigecycline against MBL-producing bacterial isolates. Materials and Methods: The isolates were tested for MBL production by (i) combined-disk test, (ii) double disc synergy test (DDST), (iii) susceptibility to aztreonam (30 μg) disk. Minimum inhibitory concentration to tigecycline was determined according to agar dilution method as per Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines. Disc diffusion susceptibility testing was also performed for all these isolates using tigecycline (15 μg) discs. Results: Among the total 308 isolates included in the study, 99 were found to be MBL producers. MBL production was observed mostly in isolates from pus samples (40.47%) followed by urine (27.4%) and blood (13.09%). MBL production was observed in E. coli (41.48%), K. pneumoniae (26.67%), Proteus mirabilis (27.78%), Citrobacter spp. (41.67%), Enterobacter spp. (25.08%), and Acinetobacter spp. (27.27%). The result showed that tigecycline activity was unaffected by MBL production and it was showed almost 100% activity against all MBL-producing isolates, with most of the isolates exhibiting an MIC ranging from 0.25-8 μg/ml, except 2 MBL-producing E. coli isolates who had an MIC of 8 μg/ml. Conclusion: To conclude, tigecycline was found to be highly effective against MBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae and acinetobacter isolates, but the presence of resistance among organisms, even before the mass usage of the drug, warrants the need of its usage as a reserve drug. The study also found that the interpretative criteria for the disc diffusion method, recommended by the FDA, correlates well with the MIC detection methods. So, the microbiology laboratories might use the relatively easier method of disc diffusion, as compared to the comparatively tedious method of MIC determination.
Directionality and spread of shallow water waves along the eastern Arabian Sea
Authors: Sanil Kumar V. , Anoop T. R.
Published: October 2013

Abstract. The directional characteristics of shallow water waves are described based on measured data during 2011 at two locations spaced at 350 km along the eastern Arabian Sea. Study shows that, for high swells (significant wave height > 1 m) approaching almost parallel to the coast, the difference between mean and principal wave direction at spectral peak is negligible. The directional spreading of wind-sea-dominated wave spectrum is less than that of the swell-dominated spectrum. Average value of the ratio of the directional width at twice the peak frequency and that at the peak frequency is 1.9 indicating that the directional width increased at higher frequency. Even though both locations studied are along the eastern Arabian Sea, there are more northwest waves due to shamal events and local winds found at the northern location (27%) than at the southern location (7%).
Distributed Active Traction Control System Applied to the RoboCup Middle Size League
Authors: Almeida José , Dias André , Martins Alfredo , Sequeira João , Silva Eduardo
Published: October 2013

This work addresses the problem of traction control in mobile wheeled robots in the particular case of the RoboCup Middle Size League (MSL). The slip control problem is formulated using simple friction models for ISePorto Team Robots with a differential wheel configuration. Traction was also characterized experimentally in the MSL scenario for relevant game events. This work proposes a hierarchical traction control architecture which relies on local slip detection and control at each wheel, with relevant information being relayed to a higher level responsible for global robot motion control. A dedicated one axis control embedded hardware subsystem allowing complex local control, high frequency current sensing and odometric information procession was developed. This local axis control board is integrated in a distributed system using CAN bus communications. The slipping observer was implemented in the axis control hardware nodes integrated in the ISePorto Robots and was used to control and detect loss of traction. An external vision system was used to perform a qualitative analysis of the slip detection and observer performance results are presented.
Systems Engineering and Safety Issues in Scientific Facilities Subject to Ionizing Radiations
Authors: Bonnal Pierre , Baudin Mathieu O. , Ruiz Jean-Michel
Published: October 2013

The conception and development of large-scale scientific facilities emitting ionizing radiations rely more on project management practices in use in the process industry than on systems engineering practices. This paper aims to highlight possible reasons for this present situation and to propose some ways to enhance systems engineering so that the specific radiation safety requirements are considered and integrated in the approach. To do so, we have reviewed lessons learned from the management of large-scale scientific projects and more specifically that of the Large Hadron Collider project at CERN. It is shown that project management and systems engineering practices are complementary and can beneficially be assembled in an integrated and lean managerial framework that grants the appropriate amount of focus to safety and radiation safety aspects.
SitLog: A Programming Language for Service Robot Tasks
Authors: Pineda Luis A. , Salinas Lisset , Meza Ivan V. , Rascon Caleb , Fuentes Gibran
Published: October 2013

In this paper we present SitLog: a declarative situation-oriented logical language for programming situated service robot tasks. The formalism is task and domain independent, and can be used in a wide variety of settings. SitLog can also be seen as a behaviour engineering specification and interpretation formalism to support action selection by autonomous agents during the execution of complex tasks. The language combines the recursive transition network formalism, extended with functions to express dynamic and contextualized task structures, with a functional language to express control and content information. The SitLog interpreter is written in Prolog and SitLog's programs follow closely the Prolog notation, permitting the declarative specification and direct interpretation of complex applications in a modular and compact form. We discuss the structure and representation of service robot tasks in practical settings and how these can be expressed in SitLog. The present framework has been tested in the service robot Golem-II+ using the specification and programming of the typical tasks which require completion in the RoboCup@Home Competition.
Using queuing theory to describe steady‐state runoff‐runon phenomena and connectivity under spatially variable conditions
Authors: Jones O. D. , Sheridan G. J. , Lane P. N.
Published: October 2013

Runoff‐runon occurs when spatially variable infiltration capacities result in runoff generated in one location potentially infiltrating downslope in an area with higher infiltration capacity. The runoff‐runon process is invoked to explain field observations of runoff ratios that decline with plot length and steady‐state infiltration rates that increase gradually with rainfall intensity. To illustrate the influence of spatial variability and runoff‐runon on net infiltration and runoff generation, we use both (i) field rainfall simulation on soil with a high infiltration capacity and (ii) numerical rainfall‐runoff‐runon simulations over a spatially variable area. Numerical simulations have shown that the spatial variability of soil infiltration properties affects surface runoff generation; however, it has proven difficult to represent analytically the associated runoff‐runon process. We argue that given some simplifying assumptions, the runoff‐runon phenomenon can be represented by queuing theory, well known in the literature on stochastic processes. Using this approach we report simple analytic expressions derived from the queuing literature that quantify the total runoff under steady‐state conditions from a spatially variable tilted 2‐D plane, and the runoff produced by the area connected with the lower boundary of the plane under these conditions. These quantities are shown to be equal to the waiting time and the “sampled” busy period, respectively, of a first‐in first‐out queue with exponentially distributed arrivals and service times. The queuing theory model is shown to be consistent with field observations of runoff; however, the approach requires some simplifying assumptions and restrictions that may negate the benefits of the reported analytic solutions.
Simulations of X‐Ray Scattering on Two‐Dimensional, Graphitic and Turbostratic Carbon Structures
Authors: Dopita Milan , Rudolph Martin , Salomon Anton , Emmel Marcus , Aneziris Christos G. , Rafaja David
Published: October 2013

Simulations of scattered intensity distributions from two and three dimensional carbon structures of different shapes and sizes were done using the general Debye scattering equation. The influence of the lattice defects typical for the turbostratic structure, i.e., random fluctuations in the parallel layer spacings, random lateral translations of graphitic layers and mutual disorientations of individual parallel layers around the layers normal direction, on the resulting simulated scattered intensities were studied and discussed. The microstructure‐induced changes in the line broadening, in the shape parameter in the Scherrer formula and in the lattice parameters determined from the positions of the X‐ray diffraction lines are discussed in particular. The set of presented Scherrer parameters allows the calculation of the cluster sizes along and normal to the basal planes from the measured X‐ray scattering. The reliability of the Warren–Bodenstein approach for scattering on turbostratic carbon structures was proven. Intensity distributions simulated using the Warren–Bodenstein approach were compared to those obtained using the general Debye scattering equation. It was confirmed that both approaches yield, for particular cluster size, similar results.
Multi‐Length Scale Porous Polymers
Authors: Takekoh Ryu , Russell Thomas P.
Published: October 2013

Thin films with porosities spanning from the nanoscopic to the macroscopic are obtained by combining breath figures (BFs), micrometer‐sized surface cavities arising from the condensation of water on the surface of a film as solvent evaporates rapidly, with the nanoscopic morphology inherent to block copolymers. Using chloroform as a solvent for polystyrene‐b‐poly methyl methacrylate (PS‐b‐PMMA) block copolymers (BCPs), micrometer‐sized pores arise from the formation of the BFs, while nanoscopic pores are generated by the removal of the PMMA by deep UV‐irradiation, which also crosslinks the PS. Solvent retention, though, limits its utility. This is overcome using PS‐b‐poly(n‐butyl methacrylate) dissolved in dichloromethane where, again, multi‐length scales of porosity are achieved by a selective removal of one component of BCPs. Arrays of nanopores on the surface of a film can also be obtained by swelling the hydrophilic component block of PS‐b‐poly(ethyleneoxide) (PEO) with water vapor, under controlled humidity. Simultaneously, large pores can be obtained by macrophase separation between BCPs and water, which leads to multi‐length scale porous films.
A Zn‐Doped CuO Nanocomposite Shows Enhanced Antibiofilm and Antibacterial Activities Against Streptococcus Mutans Compared to Nanosized CuO
Authors: Eshed Michal , Lellouche Jonathan , Gedanken Aharon , Banin Ehud
Published: October 2013

Zinc‐doped copper oxide and copper oxide nanoparticles (NPs) are synthesized and deposited on artificial teeth by sonic irradiation, and the ability of these coatings to restrict biofilm formation by Streptococcus mutans is examined. The CuO and Zn:CuO NP‐coated teeth show significant reductions in biofilm formation of 70% and 88%, respectively, compared to uncoated teeth. The mechanism of the Zn:CuO nanoparticles is investigated, revealing that the nanoparticles attach to and penetrate the bacteria and generate intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) that enhance lipid peroxidation and cause cell death. Conversely, the CuO or ZnO NPs do not show this behavior and could not generate intracellular ROS. These results highlight the superior efficacy of Zn:CuO nanocomposites over CuO and ZnO NPs and the role of ROS in their antimicrobial effect.
Abandoned Functionality of Thin‐Film Opal Photonic Crystals
Authors: Küchenmeister Jens , Wolff Christian , Busch Kurt , Peschel Ulf , Romanov Sergei G.
Published: October 2013

Angle‐resolved polarized transmission spectra of thin‐film opals are studied experimentally and theoretically as a function of the azimuthal rotation of the plane of incidence at different angles of light incidence. In such 3‐dimensional lattices, the refraction acquires the form of diffraction orders, each with a distinct spectrum, that propagate simultaneously along different directions. The corresponding continuous and patchy stop‐bands in the photonic energy band structure of the opal photonic crystal are determined numerically. For diffraction at high Miller index planes, the diffraction pattern is often distorted due to multiple‐wave diffraction. The finite stacking of hexagonally close‐packed layers leads to an intrinsic 3‐fold rotation symmetry of these spectra, which is particularly pronounced in transmission for frequencies that correspond to wave vectors within the 1st Brillouin zone. Despite the cubic symmetry of the opal lattice, cross‐polarization coupling effects occur in the volume of the opal crystal. These effects are associated with the fact that, the opal eigenmodes are Bloch waves whose electromagnetic field distributions and dispersion relations are markedly different from plane waves.
Understanding the Morphology of PTB7:PCBM Blends in Organic Photovoltaics
Authors: Liu Feng , Zhao Wei , Tumbleston John R. , Wang Cheng , Gu Yu , Wang Dong , Briseno Alejandro L. , Ade Harald , Russell Thomas P.
Published: October 2013

The structure–property relationships of PTB7‐phenyl‐C61‐butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM)‐based organic photovoltaics are investigated. The morphology is investigated in an active layer setting where a multi‐length‐scale morphology is observed using a solvent additive‐assisted film processing. This multi‐length‐scale structure consists of a phase separated morphology with a characteristic length scale of ≈30 nm, which is critical for producing large currents in devices; a second length scale of ≈130 nm, arises from face‐on PTB7 crystalline aggregates. This latter morphological feature is also observed in films prepared without the use of an additive. By observing the structure formation in situ during solvent evaporation for blade coated thin films, the additive is found to promote the formation of ordered domains of the PTB7 at an earlier stage during the solvent evaporation, which is critical in the development of the final morphology. In studies on PTB7/PCBM bilayers, PCBM is found to diffuse into the PTB7 layer. However, the performance of devices prepared in this manner is low. This diffusion leads to a swelling of the PTB7 and a reduction in the crystallinity of the PTB7, reflecting the strong miscibility of PCBM with PTB7. The morphology resulting from the interdiffusion is single‐length‐scale with slightly large phase separation. This leads to devices with poor performance.
Economic model predictive control with time‐varying objective function for nonlinear process systems
Authors: Ellis Matthew , Christofides Panagiotis D.
Published: October 2013

Economic model predictive control (EMPC) is a control scheme that combines real‐time dynamic economic process optimization with the feedback properties of model predictive control (MPC) by replacing the quadratic cost function with a general economic cost function. Almost all the recent work on EMPC involves cost functions that are time invariant (do not explicitly account for time‐varying process economics). In the present work, we focus on the development of a Lyapunov‐based EMPC (LEMPC) scheme that is formulated with an explicitly time‐varying economic cost function. First, the formulation of the proposed two‐mode LEMPC is given. Second, closed‐loop stability is proven through a theoretical treatment. Last, we demonstrate through extensive closed‐loop simulations of a chemical process that the proposed LEMPC can achieve stability with time‐varying economic cost as well as improve economic performance of the process over a conventional MPC scheme. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J 60: 507–519, 2014
Past and current dermatological status of yusho patients
Authors: Urabe Harukuni , Asahi Masakazu
Published: October 2013

Skin symptoms of “Yusho” and their change thereafter are described. In the early stage, skin eruptions were the most prominent and impressive features of Yusho. Acneiform eruptions and pigmentation were most conspicuous. With the passage of time, there is some improvement and most patients now have few eruptions, except for the severely intoxicated group. As for blood PCB analysis, the severely intoxicated group who showed intensive skin symptoms showed “pattern A”—a typical specific Yusho pattern. The blood PCB patterns of each patient were stable with no alteration after many years and, on the other hand, the blood PCB concentrations have diminished year by year.
PCBs in blood of workers exposed to PCBs and their health status
Authors: Takamatsu Makoto , Oki Mariko , Maeda Katsuyoshi , Inoue Yoshito , Hirayama Hachiro , Yoshizuka Keiko
Published: October 2013

Fact‐finding surveys of workers occupationally exposed to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in the production of silk thread or of paint were carried out. Some of the workers showed higher PCB levels in the plasma than typical Yusho patients. Gas chromatographic patterns of their PCBs were shown to match the pattern of the PCBs to which they had been exposed. Levels of polychlorinated quaterphenyls in their blood were lower than 0.02 ppb. Medical findings were slight compared with typical Yusho patients. From these results, the differences in contamination with PCBs and relevant compounds and in health status between these workers and Yusho patients are discussed.
An outbreak of N‐hexane induced polyneuropathy among press proofing workers in Taipei
Authors: Wang Jung‐Der , Chang Yang‐Chyuan , Kao Ko‐Pei , Huang Chin‐Chang , Lin Chi‐Chang , Yeh Wen‐Yih
Published: October 2013

The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and the etiology of polyneuropathy observed among press proofing workers in Taipei. Neurological examinations of 59 workers, from 16 press proofing factories, were conducted. Fifty‐four of those workers subsequently underwent studies of nerve conduction velocities. Samples of bulk solvent from the involved factories were analyzed for their contents using gas chromatography. Fifteen (25%) of the study group were found to have polyneuropathy. All 15 patients with polyneuropathy were from factories in which solvents containing n‐hexane were regularly used, and there was a significant association between n‐hexane concentration in the bulk samples and prevalence of polyneuropathy. The air concentration of n‐hexane in one factory in which all six employees developed polyneuropathy was 190 ppm. Workers who were exposed to n‐hexane at air levels of less than 100 ppm but who frequently worked overtime showed a significant slowing of motor nerve conduction velocities on median, ulnar, and peroneal nerves. Of 13 workers who regularly slept in the factory, 12 (92%) had polyneuropathy compared to three (7%) of 46 workers who did not sleep in the factory. The outbreak of polyneuropathy was attributed to a combination of the use of solvents with high contents of n‐hexane, poor ventilation, and the practice of sleeping in the factories between shifts.
Lung cancer and diesel exhaust: A review
Authors: Steenland Kyle
Published: October 2013

The evidence from animal studies indicates that organic extracts of diesel particulate are mutagenic and carcinogenic. Of four animal inhalation studies, two have been positive and two have been largely negative. The most recent data indicate that inhalation studies may be positive only with high doses of exhaust. Human studies of diesel‐exposed occupations have been inconclusive. These studies have focused on truck drivers, bus drivers and garage workers, railroad workers, and heavy equipment operators. Most human studies have not been able to estimate exposure to diesel exhaust. Negative studies have frequently suffered from insufficient potential latency. Positive studies have often failed to control for smoking, and have sometimes involved confounding occupational exposures. In general, the occupational epidemiology of diesel‐exposed workers is made difficult by the fact that many of the suspected toxic components of diesel‐exhaust are also present in cigarette smoke and in ambient air. There are two ongoing epidemiologic studies in the United States, focusing on railway workers and truck drivers, which attempt to overcome prior difficulties. Preliminary data from the study of truck drivers indicates an excess of lung cancer among workers in the trucking industry compared to the U.S. population, but these data need to be controlled for smoking and analyzed according to diesel exposure
Smoking, morbidity, and pulmonary function in a group of ex‐asbestos workers: A pilot study
Authors: Richter  , Tuch H. , Sarel O. , Shabbat Z. , Weiler D.
Published: October 2013

Thirty‐three of 184 formerly exposed asbestos textile workers were interviewed to evaluate knowledge, attitudes, and practices concerning smoking and asbestos. Twenty‐three subjects in this group also underwent physical examination to determine smoking‐symptom/sign‐pulmonary function interrelationships. Approximately half of the exworkers smoked, and the majority who had stopped did so mostly because of illness rather than because of knowledge concerning smoking‐asbestos hazards. All workers welcomed the offer of smoking cessation programs. Smokers and exsmokers, but not nonsmokers, were at risk for obstructive‐type impairments, but all three groups contained subjects with impairments interpretable as restrictive. The presence of shortness of breath, cough, rǎles, or decreased breathing sounds alone or in any combination greatly increased the odds that either obstructive‐ or possible restrictive‐ or mixed‐type impairments would be found on spirometry. Mass screening techniques required about one hour of person time per examinee to assess health status, provide educational material on smoking, and counsel workers on referral arrangements. The findings suggest that smoking alerts, smoking cessation clinics, and medical follow‐up are needed, feasible, and acceptable in Israel.
Review of the Israeli technical committee for asbestos
Authors: Brenner S. , Anavi Z.
Published: October 2013

The concern of the Israeli public regarding health hazards arising from asbestos use led to the formation of a governmental body responsible for finding solutions to these problems. This body was formed in 1983 as a National Medical Committee and included representatives from governmental and nongovernmental bodies. The Israeli Technical Committee for Asbestos, which serves as a subsidiary of the National Medical Committee, is concerned with the technical aspects associated with health hazards associated with asbestos and other harmful dusts.

This report describes the major activities of the Technical Committee during the last 2 years.
Dust levels in an asbestos‐cement factory: Problem solving
Authors: Sharon Arieh
Published: October 2013

Isasbest Ltd., an asbestos‐cement factory in Israel, has established dust‐preventive measures, maintained high ecological and medical standards, and assisted afflicted workers suffering from asbestos‐related diseases. The problems of the handling of asbestos and its relationship to health should be approached according to the conditions in each specific workplace so that reasonable solutions can be found for proper control.
Comparative epidemiology of men exposed to asbestos and man‐made mineral fibers
Authors: Goldsmith John R.
Published: October 2013

Comparative analyses are presented of selected studies of long‐term reactions to occupational exposures to asbestos and man‐made mineral fibers (MMMF), with emphasis on studies with dose‐response information and long enough period of follow‐up to observe lung cancer excess, if it occurred. Uniform dose estimates based on average number of fibers per milliliter were derived and tabulated with the corresponding standard mortality (or morbidity) ratio (SMR), crude probability for each unfavorable outcome, and the likelihood that at least as many deaths would have occurred as a result of the expected numbers under Poisson assumptions. A dose‐response relationship was said to have been indicated when the crude probability increased monotonically with dose and/or the Poisson probability decreased and reached a value of less than 0.05. Some arbitrary assumptions had to be made in estimation of the dose, and they may need to be corrected. Gravimetric dose estimates may have given different results.

Studies selected for analysis included Quebec asbestos miners and asbestos cement workers exposed to asbestos, and pooled U.S. and European studies of MMMF workers, as well as a sample of cigarette‐smoking fiberglass workers whose X‐ray films were evaluated for fine nodular or irregular opacities.

The lowest dose capable of showing either a statistically significant excess (single point criterion—SP) or the median dose in an apparent dose‐response relationship with cause of death or radiological results is tabulated.

Radiological changes show a dose‐response relationship for all types, with a median dose for asbestos of 2.8 fibers/ml. For fiberglass workers, the median dose of electron‐microscopically detected fibers was two orders of magnitude less.

For asbestos SP, exposures of 1.4 to 22 fibers/ml were associated with increased lung cancer, while for mineral wool, the minimal level with significant SP increase in lung cancer was an order of magnitude less.

Based on fiber or particle counts, man‐made mineral fibers appear to be more potent than asbestos with regard to chronic pulmonary disease.
Analysis of mortality patterns and workers' compensation awards among asbestos insulation workers in Ontario
Authors: Finkelstein Murray M.
Published: October 2013

Mortality and workers' compensation patterns were studied among 1,064 Ontario asbestos insulation workers. A proportional mortality analysis of 153 asbestos worker deaths found increased mortality from malignant diseases (65 deaths observed; 35.1 expected), cancers of the lungs and pleura (32 deaths observed; 11.5 expected), peritoneal mesothelioma (4 deaths), and respiratory diseases (14 deaths observed; 7.9 expected). Despite the publicity given to asbestos‐associated diseases, dependents of many men potentially eligible for workers compensation awards have not received pensions because claims were not filed. These findings suggest that much occupationally related disease is not being recognized in Ontario.
Assessment of exposure to chemicals in a complex work environment
Authors: Ott M. Gerald , Teta M. Jane , Greenberg Howard L.
Published: October 2013

Exposure information was evaluated for two large chemical manufacturing facilities and a research and development center in support of occupational health studies of employees assigned to these facilities. Methodology and rationale underlying the exposure categorization are provided, and descriptive exposure statistics are presented for a sample of 774 employees. Analysis of work patterns and exposure profiles revealed that 1) employee transfers among various production work areas did not follow a predictable pattern, 2) over 41% of the chemicals identified were present in multiple work areas, and 3) individuals exposed to one chemical of toxicologic interest were also likely to be exposed to other similarly toxic materials. The use of both work area and chemical‐specific exposure measures is recommended, as each may be helpful in addressing etiologic questions regarding complex work environments.
Cigarette smoke potentiates the DNA‐damaging effect of manmade mineral fibers
Authors: Leanderson Per , Tagesson Christer
Published: October 2013

Epidemiological and experimental studies suggest that manmade mineral fibers (MMMFs) have DNA‐damaging and carcinogenic properties. To investigate the hypothesis that cigarette smoke can potentiate MMMF‐induced DNA damage, we exposed isolated calf thymus DNA to cigarette smoke condensate and/or three different types of MMMFs: rockwool, glasswool, and ceramic fibers. As an index of DNA damage, the hydroxyl radical‐generated formation of 8‐hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8OHdG) from deoxyguanosine (dG) was used. All the three fiber types, as well as cigarette smoke condensate alone, caused hydroxylation of dG residues in DNA, and, when smoke was combined with each of the different fibers, rockwool caused a synergistically increased formation of 8OHdG. We suggest that 1) iron‐containing MMMFs such as rockwool are able to enhance synergistically cigarette smoke‐induced DNA‐damage and 2) this damage is caused by hydroxyl radicals.
Health effects from work in swine confinement buildings
Authors: Donham Kelley J.
Published: October 2013

A total of 14 epidemiologic studies from four countries, involving 2,786 workers is reviewed for respiratory symptoms, pulmonary function, antibodies to swine house allergens, and exposure‐response variables. Cough and phlegm were the most common symptoms (ranging from 12 to 55%). Tightness of chest and wheezing were frequently reported (12 to 33%) as well as episodes of organic dust toxic syndrome. Acute symptoms, directly associated with work, were from 1.5 to 2 times more prevalent than chronic symptoms. Baseline pulmonary function generally revealed decrements in flow rates, but not volumes; over‐shift changes showed small decrements in both flows and volumes. IgG antibodies to swine house antigens were common; no relation to symptoms could be found. Exposure response studies were limited, but relationships were seen between endotoxin and pulmonary function decrements, or respiratory symptoms.
Health effects of cotton dust exposures
Authors: Rylander Ragnar
Published: October 2013

The characteristics of the effects of exposure to cotton dust were adequately described more than 50 years ago. Symptoms of airway irritation, cough with or without phlegm, and Monday morning chest tightness are typical. The symptoms caused by exposure to cotton dust are similar to those induced by other organic dusts. A common pathology is acute or chronic inflammation, and bacterial endotoxins seem to be the causative agents for the acute and some chronic reactions.
Altered immune status in aluminum reduction plant workers
Authors: Davis Robert L. , Milham Samuel
Published: October 2013

From 1978 to 1985, B‐cell lymphoma occurred in five employees of an aluminum reduction plant (expected = 0.2; Poisson distribution). As immunodeficiency is a known risk factor for B‐cell lymphoma, we did a pilot study to evaluate immune function in apparently healthy plant workers. Twenty‐three volunteers were selected for study from 350 workers, representing a range of experience in the potroom and with exposures to strong magnetic fields and volatilized aromatic hydrocarbons. Potroom workers had significantly higher T8 levels (mean = 1,227) than non‐potroom workers (mean = 597) (p < .05, Wilcoxon rank sums) or established normal values (median = 450). T4 levels were higher for potroom workers (mean = 1,017) than for non‐potroom workers (mean = 558) or for established norms (median = 756) (p < .10, Wilcoxon rank sums). Ten of 20 potroom workers had abnormal T4/T8 ratios (<0.91) due to disproportionate elevation of the T8 subpopulation. These data suggest an underlying immune alteration in the aluminum workers studied. Further study is needed to assess the implications of abnormal T‐cell subsets in a worker population with high rates of lymphoma.
Formation and evolution of the carbon black network in polyethylene/carbon black composites: Rheology and conductivity properties
Authors: Ren Danqi , Zheng Shaodi , Wu Feng , Yang Wei , Liu Zhengying , Yang Mingbo
Published: October 2013

We report a detailed investigation on the effect of carbon black (CB) morphology on network formation and evolution in high‐density polyethylene/CB composites. There were three types of networks in our study, the electrical network in the solid state and the electrical and rheological networks in the melt state. The evolution of the network in the polymer melt was traced by simultaneous electrical resistivity (R) and dynamic rheology testing. An oscillation strain sweep was used to investigate the network stability with a large strain. We found that with high‐structure CB with a branched morphology, it was easier to form a filler–polymer or filler–filler network than with low‐structure CB with a spherical morphology in the composite melt. The high‐structure CB network was more stable with a large strain compared to the low‐structure one. Meanwhile, the low‐structure CB aggregates had stronger capability of movement and re‐aggregation in the polymer melt. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39953.
Flame retardancy effects of phosphorus‐containing compounds and cationic photoinitiators on photopolymerized cycloaliphatic epoxy resins
Authors: Li Yong‐Jie , Gu Xiao‐Yu , Zhao Jie , Jiang Peng , Sun Jun , Wang Tao
Published: October 2013

This study presents a promising ultraviolet (UV)‐curable epoxy resin formulation with improved flame‐retardant properties. The formulation is based on the cycloaliphatic epoxide 3,4‐epoxycyclohexylmethyl‐3,4‐epoxycyclohexane carboxylate (ERL4221) and a novel silicon, phosphorous containing flame‐retardant additive. The additive, 1,3,5,7‐tetramethyl‐1,3,5,7‐tetra 2‐(6‐oxido‐6‐H‐dibenzo(c,e) (1,2)oxaphosphorin‐6‐yl) ethylcyclotetrasiloxane (DOPO‐SiD), was synthesized by the addition reaction of 1,3,5,7‐tetramethyl‐1,3,5,7‐tetravinylcyclotetrasiloxane (D4Vi) with 9,10‐dihydro‐9‐oxa‐10‐phosphaphenanthrene‐10‐oxide (DOPO). Formulations containing the cycloaliphatic epoxy resin ERL4221 and the flame‐retardant DOPO‐SiD additive were prepared in various concentrations and crosslinked by UV irradiation. The effects of DOPO‐SiD and photoinitiators, such as the cyclopentadienyl iron complex of carbazole (In‐Fe) and diphenyl‐(4‐(phenylthiol) phenyl) sulfonium hexafluorophosphate (In‐S), on the flame‐retardant properties and thermal stabilities of UV‐cured ERL4221/DOPO‐SiD composites were investigated with limiting oxygen index, UL‐94 vertical test, and thermogravimetric analysis, respectively. The results showed that DOPO‐SiD can increase the thermal stabilities of the ERL4221/DOPO‐SiD. The char yield was improved when DOPO‐SiD and In‐Fe were simultaneously used. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40011.
Chemoselective Immobilization of Proteins by Microcontact Printing and Bio‐orthogonal Click Reactions
Authors: Tolstyka Zachary P. , Richardson Wade , Bat Erhan , Stevens Caitlin J. , Parra Dayanara P. , Dozier Jonathan K. , Distefano Mark D. , Dunn Bruce , Maynard Heather D.
Published: October 2013

Herein, a combination of microcontact printing of functionalized alkanethiols and site‐specific modification of proteins is utilized to chemoselectively immobilize proteins onto gold surfaces, either by oxime‐ or copper‐catalyzed alkyne–azide click chemistry. Two molecules capable of click reactions were synthesized, an aminooxy‐functionalized alkanethiol and an azide‐functionalized alkanethiol, and self‐assembled monolayer (SAM) formation on gold was confirmed by IR spectroscopy. The alkanethiols were then individually patterned onto gold surfaces by microcontact printing. Site‐specifically modified proteins—horse heart myoglobin (HHMb) containing an N‐terminal α‐oxoamide and a red fluorescent protein (mCherry‐CVIA) with a C‐terminal alkyne—were immobilized by incubation onto respective stamped functionalized alkanethiol patterns. Pattern formation was confirmed by fluorescence microscopy.
Nitrate and Nitrite Removal Using a Continuous Heterotrophic Denitrifying Granular Sludge Bioreactor
Authors: Hosseini M. , Sahraei E. , Khoshfetrat A. B. , Ebrahimi S.
Published: October 2013

The denitrification potential of a continuous denitrifying granular‐sludge bioreactor for concentrated nitrate/nitrite wastes was investigated. Granules were cultivated using nitrite as sole electron acceptor. Complete denitrification could be achieved at nitrite, nitrate, and nitrate‐nitrite mixture (50:50) loading rates up to 2.7, 3 and 3 g N L–1d–1, respectively. The maximum nitrite and nitrate reduction capacities were limited by the biomass concentration. Removal of nitrate and nitrite was studied with constant biomass concentration at different pH values. A lower pH value resulted in a considerable increase of inhibitory effects of both nitrite and nitrate whereby nitrate exhibited the more significant impact.
A Radical Process towards the Development of Transition‐Metal‐Free Aromatic CarbonCarbon Bond‐Forming Reactions
Authors: Chan Tek Long , Wu Yinuo , Choy Pui Ying , Kwong Fuk Yee
Published: October 2013

Transition‐metal‐free cross‐coupling reactions have been a hot topic in recent years. With the aid of a radical initiator, a number of unactivated arene CH bonds can be directly arylated/functionalized by using aryl halides through homolytic aromatic substitution. Commercially available or specially designed promoters (e.g. diamines, diols, and amino alcohols) have been used to make this synthetically attractive method viable. This protocol offers an inexpensive, yet efficient route to aromatic CC bond formations since transition metal catalysts and impurities can be avoided by using this reaction system. In this article, we focus on the significance of the reaction conditions (e.g. bases and promoters), which allow this type of reaction to proceed smoothly. Substrate scope limitations and challenges, as well as mechanistic discussion are also included.
Chromophore‐Linked Substrate (CLS405): Probing Metallo‐β‐Lactamase Activity and Inhibition
Authors: Makena Anne , van Berkel Sander S. , Lejeune Clarisse , Owens Raymond J. , Verma Anil , Salimraj Ramya , Spencer James , Brem Jürgen , Schofield Christopher J.
Published: October 2013

Serine‐ and metallo‐β‐lactamases present a threat to the clinical use of nearly all β‐lactam antibiotics, including penicillins, cephalosporins, and carbapenems. Efforts to develop metallo‐β‐lactamase (MBL) inhibitors require suitable screening platforms to allow the rapid determination of β‐lactamase activity and efficient inhibition. Unfortunately, the platforms currently available are not ideal for this purpose. Further progress in MBL inhibitor identification requires inexpensive and widely applicable assays. Herein the identification of an inexpensive and stable chromogenic substrate suitable for use in assays of clinically relevant MBLs is described. (6R,7R)‐3‐((4‐Nitrophenoxy)methyl)‐8‐oxo‐7‐(2‐phenylacetamido)‐5‐thia‐1‐azabicyclo[4.2.0]oct‐2‐ene‐2‐carboxylic acid 5,5‐dioxide (CLS405) was synthesised in a three‐step protocol. CLS405 was then characterised spectroscopically, and its stability and kinetic properties evaluated. With a Δλmax value of 100 nm between the parent and hydrolysis product, a higher analytical accuracy is possible with CLS405 than with commonly used chromogenic substrates. The use of CLS405 in assays was validated by MBL activity measurements and inhibitor screening that resulted in the identification of N‐hydroxythiazoles as new inhibitor scaffolds for MBLs. Further evaluation of the identified N‐hydroxythiazoles against a panel of clinically relevant MBLs showed that they possess inhibitory activities in the mid‐ to low‐micromolar range. The findings of this study provide both a useful tool compound for further inhibitor identification, and novel scaffolds for the design of improved MBL inhibitors with potential as antibiotics against resistant strains of bacteria.
Design, development, and validation of a high‐throughput drug‐screening assay for targeting of human leukemia
Authors: Karjalainen Katja , Pasqualini Renata , Cortes Jorge E. , Kornblau Steven M. , Lichtiger Benjamin , O'Brien Susan , Kantarjian Hagop M. , Sidman Richard L. , Arap Wadih , Koivunen Erkki
Published: October 2013

BACKGROUND

The authors developed an ex vivo methodology to perform drug library screening against human leukemia.

METHODS

The strategy for this screening relied on human blood or bone marrow cultures under hypoxia; under these conditions, leukemia cells deplete oxygen faster than normal cells, causing a hemoglobin oxygenation shift. Several advantages were observed: 1) partial recapitulation of the leukemia microenvironment, 2) use of native hemoglobin oxygenation as a real‐time sensor/reporter, 3) cost‐effectiveness, 4) species specificity, and 5) a format that enables high‐throughput screening.

RESULTS

For a proof of concept, a chemical library (size, approximately 20,000 compounds) was screened against human leukemia cells. Seventy compounds were identified (“hit” rate, 0.35%; Z‐factor = 0.71) that had activity, and 20 compounds were examined to identify 18 true‐positive compounds (90%). Finally, the results demonstrated that carbonohydraxonic diamide group‐containing compounds are potent antileukemia agents that induce cell death in leukemia cells and in patient‐derived samples.

CONCLUSIONS

The current results indicated that this unique functional assay can identify novel drug candidates and can help with the development of future applications in personalized drug selection for patients with leukemia. Cancer 2014;120:589–602. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
Temporal trends and predictors of salvage cancer treatment after failure following radical prostatectomy or radiation therapy: An analysis from the CaPSURE registry
Authors: Cary K. Clint , Paciorek Alan , Fuldeore Mahesh J. , Carroll Peter R. , Cooperberg Matthew R.
Published: October 2013

BACKGROUND

Prostate cancer treatment after failure of primary therapy by either radical prostatectomy or radiation therapy can vary greatly. This study sought to determine trends and predictors of salvage treatment after failure of primary treatment in a community cohort over the past 10 years.

METHODS

From the community‐based Cancer of the Prostate Strategic Urologic Research Endeavor (CaPSURE) database, 6275 patients were identified who initiated a form of primary treatment for prostate cancer; 839 of these were identified as failing treatment by biochemical recurrence or initiation of secondary treatment between 2000 and 2010. Salvage therapy was categorized as either systemic, local, or none. Patient characteristics were tested for association with salvage therapy using analysis of variance, Pearson chi‐square tests, and multinomial logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

Of the 839 patients identified as failing therapy, 390 (47%), 146 (17%), and 303 (36%) received systemic, local, or no salvage therapy, respectively. Type of primary treatment received was associated with type of salvage therapy (P < .01). There has been an increasing trend in the use of local salvage therapy over the past 10 years (P = .04). Primary treatment type and biopsy Gleason score were significantly associated with type of salvage therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of local salvage therapy has increased over the past decade, whereas the use of systemic salvage therapy has declined. Primary treatment is an important factor in determining which type of salvage therapy a patient will receive. Cancer 2014;120:507–512. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
Iodamoeba butschlii in an anal pap test confirmed by iodine stain
Authors: Schuetz Audrey N. , Pritt Bobbi S. , Schreiner Andrew M.
Published: October 2013

We report the finding of Iodamoeba butschlii amebic cysts on a liquid‐based anal Pap smear from an HIV‐positive male. Iodine staining of the smear confirmed the diagnosis. It is important to distinguish I. butschlii from pathogenic ameobae and other organisms seen on anal Pap smears. Diagn. Cytopathol 2014;42:775–777. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.