bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tendencia del Trauma en dos Hospitales Nivel IV en Cali, Colombia. Reporte Preliminar en la Plataforma del Registro de la Sociedad Panamericana de Trauma (SPT/RT)
Authors: Uribe Amadeus , Badiel Marisol , Tejada Jorge W , Loaiza Jhon Harry , Pino Luis Fernando , Aboutanos Michael
Published: March 2013

Introducción

El trauma es un problema de salud pública a nivel mundial. En Colombia, el país más violento de América Latina, no hay sistemas de registro que permitan conocer las tendencias en la atención del trauma, desde el manejo prehospitalario hasta el estatus final. En Colombia, se tienen registros de mortalidad por entes estatales pero hay una deficiencia de sistemas de información que permita conocer la situación real de la atención del paciente con trauma.

Objetivo

Describir la epidemiología de la atención por trauma en los servicios de urgencias de dos hospitales de referencia en la ciudad de Cali.

Metodología

Entre 21 noviembre 2011 y 30 abril 2012 se implementó el piloto del Registro Internacional de Trauma de la Sociedad Panamericana de Trauma; la captura de la información se realiza en tiempo real. Incluye la información socio-demográfica, etiologia, severidad del trauma y estatus al egreso.

Resultados

Se registraron 5432 pacientes. El promedio de edad fue 30,2 (±20,3) años, el 67,5% fueron <35 años. Las principales causas de consulta fueron las caídas (38,1%), lesiones de tránsito (12,2%) y heridas por arma de fuego (8,5%). El 34,4% (n = 1,867) requirieron procedimientos quirúrgicos, se hospitalizaron 18,9% (n = 1,029). La mortalidad global fue del 2,6%, mayormente secundarias a heridas por arma de fuego 54,3% (76/140). La mortalidad según severidad para ISS<15 fue 0,3%(13/5183) y con ISS>15 fue 64,5% (89/138).

Conclusiones

La mayor causa de consulta fueron las caídas (38,1%), la mayor proporción de muertes fue secundaria a heridas por arma de fuego. La implementación de un registro de trauma permite conocer la realidad de la atención del trauma en los servicios de urgencias, logrando identificar debilidades en el sistema de trauma, permitiendo la generación de nuevas estrategias para mejorar la atención del trauma que se traduce en impactos en las políticas públicas y en la optimización de recursos al interior de los hospitales.

Objetivo

Describir la situación actual de las consultas por trauma a los servicios de urgencias de dos hospitales de referencia de la ciudad de Cali, que en los cuales se ha adelantado el programa piloto del registro de trauma de la sociedad Panamericana de trauma. Y mostrar que la mayor causa de consulta a los servicios de urgencias son las caídas en todas en todos los rangos de edad.
Trauma Hepático: Principais Características E Importância do Tratamento Conservador
Authors: Malutta Selen Socrepa , Neves Giana Caroline Strack , Schneider Laila Pereira , Pimentel Silvania Klug , Neto Antonio Brunetto
Published: March 2013

Introdução

As lesões de fígado estão presentes em 8% dos traumas contusos. Pacientes com lesões hepáticas complexas são tratados cada vez mais conservadoramente. Mais de dois terços das lesões de alto grau requerem laparotomia, com ressecção hepática em até 5% e mortalidade de até 9%. O objetivo é caracterizar as condutas no trauma hepático em serviço de trauma, enfatizando a decisão por tratamento conservador ou não, resultados e quadro associado.

Desenho do estudo

Estudo retrospectivo com revisão de 50 prontuários de pacientes com trauma hepático no período de abril/2011 a abril/2012.

Resultados

Nesse grupo, 80% dos pacientes foram submetidos a tratamento não-operatório, e não foram observadas falhas nesse tratamento em até 72 horas. O tempo de internamento médio foi de 11,88 dias no tratamento não-operatório, e de 13,8 dias nos laparotomizados. Os mecanismos de trauma mais freqüentes foram acidentes de moto e queda de outro nível (ambos com 20%). O grau de lesão II foi o mais prevalente (40%). Nas laparotomias exploradoras, as lesões eram graus II ou III. Os pacientes do tratamento cirúrgico receberam transfusão de, em média, 2,6 mais hemocomponentes que o grupo não cirúrgico. 8% foram a óbito por causas associadas. Nos laparotomizados, optou-se por não tratar a lesão hepática em 20% (grau II).

Conclusão

Seguiu-se a tendência atual de tratamento majoritariamente conservador do trauma hepático, obtendo-se dados condizentes com a literatura indicativa que apenas 13% dos casos é operatório. Constatou-se uma taxa de 100% de sucesso no tratamento conservador, pois os óbitos ocorridos se deram devido à severidade das lesões extra-abdominais. A literatura mostra taxas de sucesso entre 85 e 95%. Notouse número significativo de lesões graus II e III tratadas com laparotomia, não sendo um padrão comum na literatura. Não foram relatadas complicações próprias do trauma hepático. O tratamento conservador diminuiu morbidade, tempo de internamento e necessidade de hemoderivados.
Pesadillas Trauma Abdominal: Solución FácilProblemas Complejos
Authors: Domínguez Saturnino , Quiodettis Martha
Published: March 2013

Introducción

Determinar la eficiencia del uso de parches de coloides en el control local de una fístula enteroatmosférica de alto gasto.

Materiales y métodos

Presentamos el caso de un paciente de 25 años que sufrió heridas múltiples por proyectil de arma de fuego en abdomen con lesiones de duodeno y colon. El paciente inicialmente se le realiza sutura primaria de las lesiones y presenta dehiscencia de suturas con peritonitis fecal y biliar con posterior fístula enteroatmosférica de alto gasto asociada a abdomen abierto que fue manejada con dispositivo de presión negativa, drenajes, lavados de cavidad abdominal y nutrición parenteral total (NPT), sin embargo luego de ocho semanas se evidencia un abdomen abierto grado IV sin mejoría significativa del gasto o el cierre de la fístula, con significativos problemas para el control local debido a que era imposible lograr sello o controlar las secreciones por lo cual se decide iniciar el uso de parches de coloide en reemplazo de la terapia con dispositivo a presión negativa como método para el control de la fístula.

Resultados

Después de 88 días con el uso de parches de coloides el paciente presenta epitelización del abdomen abierto con aumento en el tejido de granulación, corrección parcial del desequilibrio hidroelectrolítico y el estado nutricional mejorando de forma significativa, ya que se pudo iniciar nutrición enteral a través de asa de yeyuno. No se han presentado complicaciones asociadas a la utilización de los parches de coloides.

Conclusión

La utilización de parches de coloides como método alternativo ha demostrado ser una forma eficiente para el control local de la fístula enteroatmosférica, facilitando el manejo sin aumento en las complicaciones.
Manejo Quirurgico del Torax Inestable: Experiencia en la Fundación Valle del Lili
Authors: Calero Andrés Fernando Domínguez , D Carlos A Ordoñez
Published: March 2013

ABSTRACTO

El tórax inestable es una entidad muy compleja con una gran morbi-mortalidad asociada, que tradicionalmente había sido de manejo medico. Presentar la experiencia del manejo quirúrgico del tórax inestable en la Fundación Valle del Lili en el 2011 y los buenos resultados que se han tenido con este. Durante el período de tiempo comprendido entre enero del 2011 a mayo de 2012 se realizó un estudio descriptivo, prospectivo para evaluar los desenlaces de los pacientes con tórax inestable que se presentaron en la unidad de urgencias de la Fundación Valle del Lili. Se incluyeron todos los pacientes mayores de 18 años que tuvieran un traumatismo cerrado o abierto de la pared del tórax, con dos o mas fracturas costales. El material de osteosíntesis usado en todos los pacientes fue STRATOS® de la casa MEDXPERT. Se operaron 10 pacientes, (dos mujeres) con edad promedio de 55 (33-68) años. El tiempo quirúrgico promedio fue de 132 minutos. Solo 5 pacientes requirieron intubación prequirúrgica, y todos se extubaron en las 48 horas del postoperatorio. Estancia hospitalaria promedio de 10 días, la mejoría del dolor ocurrió en promedio en el día 3 postoperatorio excluyendo un paciente que por su estado neurológico no fue posible determinar ciertas variables; este fue el único que requirió traqueostomía. Hubo dos complicaciones respiratorias: Neumonía y oxígeno en casa. El tubo de tórax se dejó en promedio 5 días. Ningún paciente falleció como consecuencia del traumatismo ni de la cirugía. En este trabajo se muestra la experiencia inicial con el manejo quirúrgico evidenciando resultados favorables pero se requieren estudios con más poder para generalizar los resultados.
Characterization of ozone profiles derived from Aura TES and OMI radiances
Authors: Fu D. , Worden J. R. , Liu X. , Kulawik S. S. , Bowman K. W. , Natraj V.
Published: March 2013

Abstract. We present satellite based ozone profile estimates derived by combining radiances measured at thermal infrared (TIR) wavelengths from the Aura Tropospheric Emission Spectrometer (TES) and ultraviolet (UV) wavelengths measured by the Aura Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI). The advantage of using these combined wavelengths and instruments for sounding ozone over either instrument alone is improved sensitivity near the surface as well as the capability to consistently resolve the lower troposphere, upper troposphere, and lower stratosphere for scenes with varying geophysical states. For example, the vertical resolution of ozone estimates from either TES or OMI varies strongly by surface albedo and temperature. Typically, TES provides 1.6 degrees of freedom for signal (DOFS) and OMI provides less than 1 DOFS in the troposphere. The combination provides 2 DOFS in the troposphere with approximately 0.4 DOFS for near surface ozone (surface to 700 hPa). We evaluated these new ozone profile estimates with ozonesonde measurements and found that calculated errors for the joint TES and OMI ozone profile estimates are in reasonable agreement with actual errors as derived by the root-mean-square (RMS) difference between the ozonesondes and the joint TES/OMI ozone estimates. We also used a common a priori profile in the retrievals in order to evaluate the capability of different retrieval approaches on capturing near-surface ozone variability. We found that the vertical resolution of the joint TES/OMI ozone profile estimates shows significant improvements on quantifying variations in near-surface ozone with RMS differences of 49.9% and correlation coefficient of R = 0.58 for the TES/OMI near-surface estimates as compared to 67.2% RMS difference and R = 0.33 for TES and 115.8% RMS difference and R = 0.09 for OMI. This comparison removes the impacts of using the climatological a priori in the retrievals. However, it results in artificially large sonde/retrieval differences. The TES/OMI ozone profiles from the production code of joint retrievals will use climatological a priori and therefore will have more realistic ozone estimates than those from using a common a priori volume mixing ratio profile.
222Rn calibrated mercury fluxes from terrestrial surface of southern Africa derived from observations at Cape Point, South Africa
Authors: Slemr F. , Brunke E.-G. , Whittlestone S. , Zahorowski W. , Ebinghaus R. , Kock H. H. , Labuschagne C.
Published: March 2013

Abstract. Gaseous elemental mercury (GEM) and 222Rn, a radioactive gas of primarily terrestrial origin with a half-life of 3.8 days, have been measured simultaneously at Cape Point, South Africa, since March 2007. Between March 2007 and December 2011 altogether 191 events with high 222Rn concentrations were identified. GEM correlated with 222Rn in 94 of the events and was constant during almost all the remaining events without significant correlation. The average GEM/222Rn emission ratio of all events including the non-significant ones was −0.0001 ± 0.0030 pg mBq−1, with 0.0030 pg mBq−1 being the standard error of the average. With an emission rate of 1.1 222Rn atoms cm−2 s−1 and a correction for the transport duration, this emission ratio corresponds to a radon calibrated flux of about −0.01 ng GEM m−2 h−1 with a standard error of ±0.34 ng GEM m−2 h−1 (n = 191). With wet deposition, which is not included in this estimate, the terrestrial surface of southern Africa seems to be a net mercury sink of about −1.01 ng m−2 h−1.
A decadal satellite analysis of the origins and impacts of smoke in Colorado
Authors: Val Martin M. , Heald C. L. , Ford B. , Prenni A. J. , Wiedinmyer C.
Published: March 2013

Abstract. We analyze the record of aerosol optical depth (AOD) measured by the MODerate resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) aboard the Terra satellite in combination with surface PM2.5 to investigate the impact of fires on aerosol loading and air quality over Colorado from 2000 to 2012, and to evaluate the contribution of local versus transported smoke. Fire smoke contributed significantly to the AOD levels observed over Colorado. During the worst fire seasons of 2002 and 2012, average MODIS AOD over the Colorado Front Range corridor were 20–50% larger than the other 11 yr studied. Surface PM2.5 was also unusually elevated during fire events and concentrations were in many occasions above the daily National Ambient Air Quality Standard (35 μg m−3) and even reached locally unhealthy levels (> 100 μg m−3) over populated areas during the 2012 High Park fire and the 2002 Hayman fire. Over the 13 yr examined, long-range transport of smoke from northwestern US and even California (>1500 km distance) occurred often and affected AOD and surface PM2.5. During most of the transport events, MODIS AOD and surface PM2.5 were reasonable correlated (r2 = 0.2–0.9), indicating that smoke subsided into the Colorado boundary layer and reached surface levels. However, that is not always the case since at least one event of AOD enhancement was disconnected from the surface (r2<0.01 and low PM2.5 levels). Observed plume heights from the Multi-angle Imaging SpectroRadiometer (MISR) satellite instrument and vertical aerosol profiles measured by the space-based Cloud-Aerosol LIdar with Orthogonal Polarization (CALIOP) showed a complex vertical distribution of smoke emitted by the High Park fire in 2012. Smoke was detected from a range of 1.5 to 7.5 km altitude at the fire origin and from ground levels to 12.3 km altitude far away from the source. The variability of smoke altitude as well as the local meteorology were key in determining the aerosol loading and air quality over the Colorado Front Range region. Our results underline the importance of accurate characterization of the vertical distribution of smoke for estimating the air quality degradation associated with fire activity and its link to human health.
Developing a portable, autonomous aerosol backscatter lidar for network or remote operations
Authors: Strawbridge K. B.
Published: March 2013

Abstract. Lidar has the ability to detect the complex vertical structure of the atmosphere and can therefore identify the existence and extent of aerosols with high spatial and temporal resolution, making it well suited for understanding atmospheric dynamics and transport processes. Environment Canada has developed a portable, autonomous lidar system that can be monitored remotely and operated continuously except during precipitation events. The lidar, housed in a small trailer, simultaneously emits two wavelengths of laser light (1064 nm and 532 nm) at energies of approximately 150 mJ/pulse/wavelength and detects the backscatter signal at 1064 nm and both polarizations at 532 nm. For laser energies of this magnitude, the challenge resides in designing a system that meets the airspace safety requirements for autonomous operations. Through the combination of radar technology, beam divergence, laser cavity interlocks and using computer log files, this risk was mitigated. A Continuum Inlite small footprint laser is the backbone of the system because of three design criteria: requiring infrequent flash lamp changes compared to previous Nd : YAG Q-switch lasers, complete software control capability and a built-in laser energy monitoring system. A computer-controlled interface was designed to monitor the health of the system, adjust operational parameters and maintain a climate-controlled environment. Through an Internet connection, it also transmitted the vital performance indicators and data stream to allow the lidar profile data for multiple instruments from near ground to 15 km, every 10 s, to be viewed, in near real-time via a website. The details of the system design and calibration will be discussed and the success of the instrument as tested within the framework of a national lidar network dubbed CORALNet (Canadian Operational Research Aerosol Lidar Network). In addition, the transport of a forest fire plume across the country will be shown as evidenced by the lidar network, HYSPLIT back trajectories, MODIS imagery and CALIPSO overpasses.
Review "On the relation between the seismic activity and the Hurst exponent of the geomagnetic field at the time of the 2000 Izu swarm"
Authors: Masci F. , Thomas J. N.
Published: March 2013

Abstract. Many papers document the observation of earthquake-related precursory signatures in geomagnetic field data. However, the significance of these findings is ambiguous because the authors did not adequately take into account that these signals could have been generated by other sources, and the seismogenic origin of these signals have not been validated by comparison with independent datasets. Thus, they are not reliable examples of magnetic disturbances induced by the seismic activity. Hayakawa et al. (2004) claim that at the time of the 2000 Izu swarm the Hurst exponent of the Ultra-Low-Frequency (ULF: 0.001–10 Hz) band of the geomagnetic field varied in accord with the energy released by the seismicity. The present paper demonstrates that the behaviour of the Hurst exponent was insufficiently investigated and also misinterpreted by the authors. We clearly show that during the Izu swarm the changes of the Hurst exponent were strongly related to the level of global geomagnetic activity and not to the increase of the local seismic activity.
A statistical feature of anomalous seismic activities prior to large shallow earthquakes in Japan revealed by the Pattern Informatics method
Authors: Kawamura M. , Wu Y.-H. , Kudo T. , Chen C. C.
Published: March 2013

Abstract. For revealing the preparatory processes of large inland earthquakes, we systematically applied the Pattern Informatics method (PI method) to the earthquake data of Japan. We focused on 12 large earthquakes with magnitudes larger than M = 6.4 (an official magnitude of the Japan Meteorological Agency) that occurred at depths shallower than 30 km between 2000 and 2010. We examined the relation between the spatiotemporal locations of such large shallow earthquakes and those of PI hotspots, which correspond to the grid cells of anomalous seismic activities in a designated time span. Based on a statistical test using Molchan's error diagram, we inquired into the existence of precursory anomalous seismic activities of the large earthquakes and, if any, their characteristic time span. The test indicated that the Japanese M ≧ 6.4 inland earthquakes tend to be preceded by anomalous seismic activities of 8-to-10-yr time scales.
Adverse Events after Intravesical Therapy: Are we Always Ready to Recognize and Prevent them?
Authors: Fiorito Chiara , Gontero Paolo
Published: March 2013

Intravesical therapy is widely used in non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) as adjuvant treatment after transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT). Assuming that adjuvant therapy is necessary for NMIBC in order to reduce recurrence and progression rates, chemotherapy and BCG toxicity become a relevant issue. Both treatments may have local and systemic side effects, which can lead to treatment cessation, resulting in incomplete treatment and poor outcomes. Therefore, urologists, specialist nurses and patients must be aware of the possible adverse events in order to early recognize, prevent and treat them properly. This article summarizes the local and systemic side effects associated with intravesical therapy, presents the recommendations for an effective management of these adverse events based on currently available evidence, and highlights some open questions on these issues.
Supplements and Foods with Potential Reduction of Blood Pressure in Prehypertensive and Hypertensive Subjects: A Systematic Review
Authors: Brito Aline de Freitas , Oliveira Caio Victor Coutinho de , Toscano Lydiane Tavares , Silva Alexandre Sérgio
Published: March 2013

Although the dietary approaches for stop hypertension (DASH) is well established and effective in reduction of blood pressure, in recent years, new scientific studies have indicated that specific food, nutrients isolated from foods, and even commercial food supplements are not covered by DASH. In this research, these nutrients were evaluated through a review using the databases of PubMed with the terms “dietary supplements and blood pressure” without a limit of date. Vitamins (C, D, and E) and minerals (potassium and copper) promote the greatest reductions in BP, around 7 to 14 mmHg for systolic blood pressure (SBP) and 4 to 5 mmHg for diastolic blood pressure (PAD). Antioxidants reduce SBP and DBP in 3 to 27 mmHg and 3 to 4 mmHg, respectively. Among the amino acids, only L-arginine was effective in promoting reduction of 20 and 15 mmHg for SBP and DBP, respectively. In food, the grape juice promoted the highest reductions in SBP and DBP, around 8 mmHg and 6 mmHg, respectively. Finally, for commercial supplements, the fermented milk product GAIOR, the grain salba, and fish oil promoted reductions of about 4,4; 6; and 5 mmHg and 3,4; 3; and 1 mmHg for SBP and DBP, respectively. Therefore, new nutrients, foods, and supplements can enrich the recommendations of the DASH.
Global Speleothem Oxygen Isotope Measurements Since the Last Glacial Maximum
Authors: Shah A. M. , Morrill C. , Gille E. P. , Gross W. S. , Anderson D. M. , Bauer B. A. , Buckner R. , Hartman M.
Published: March 2013

This synthesis of thirty-six sites (sixty cores with over 27 000 measurements) located around the world facilitates scientific research on the climate of the last 21 000 years ago obtained from oxygen isotope ( or delta-O-18) measurements. Oxygen isotopes in speleothem calcite record the influence of ambient temperature and the isotopic composition of the source water, the latter providing evidence of hydrologic variability and change. Compared to paleoclimate proxies from sedimentary archives, the age uncertainty is unusually small, around +/−100 years for the last 21 000-year interval. Using data contributed to the World Data Center (WDC) for Paleoclimatology, we have created consistently formatted data files for individual sites as well as composite dataset of annual to millennial resolution. These individual files also contain the chronology information about the sites. The data are useful in understanding hydrologic variability at local and regional scales, such as the Asian summer monsoon and the Intertropical Convergence Zone (as discussed in the underlying source publications), and should also be useful in understanding large-scale aspects of hydrologic change since the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM).
QUEM LIBERTA QUEM? PERCEPÇÕES DE LIBERTADORES DE ESCRAVOS NO BRASIL CONTEMPORÂNEO
Authors: Gomes de Jesus Jaqueline
Published: March 2013

A escravidão é um tipo de exploração da mão de obra que faz parte do mundo do trabalho desde a Antiguidade. Nos tempos atuais, diferentes organizações têm identificado e combatido a existência de trabalho escravo no Brasil, em especial em zonas rurais isoladas das Regiões Norte e Nordeste do país. A presente pesquisa investigou o campo representacional, as percepções sobre a organização do trabalho e as vivências de prazer e de sofrimento, sob o prisma da Psicodinâmica do Trabalho, de pessoas que, em diversas frentes, trabalham para a libertação de escravos no Brasil contemporâneo. A metodologia utilizada abrangeu entrevistas semiestruturadas aplicadas a dez respondentes e submetidas à análise de conteúdo temático. Os resultadosindicam que as vivências de sofrimento prevaleceram. A expectativa de libertação do outro é importante para o trabalho do libertador, e a manutenção da saúde psíquica do libertador é influenciada pela percepção de uma sociedade que liberta pessoas, de modo que ocorre uma libertação do libertador quando este percebe a liberdade de outros.
Creating Comprehensive Children's Mental Health Indicators for British Columbia
Authors: Waddell Charlotte , Shepherd Cody A. , Chen Alice , Boyle Michael H.
Published: March 2013

Canada urgently requires a population health approach to children's mental health—promoting health and preventing disorders, in addition to providing treatment. Underpinning this approach, indicators could enable population monitoring, thereby informing ongoing public investments. To investigate potential indicators for British Columbia, we developed a comprehensive population health framework, established selection guidelines, reviewed data sources, and identified sample indicators. While 15 survey and administrative sources yielded 90 indicators, there were significant imbalances in coverage of the framework. To create truly comprehensive children's mental health indicators, we therefore recommend collecting new data, enhancing existing data sources, and evaluating existing programs.
Generativity as a Positive Mental Health Outcome: The Long-term Impacts of Better Beginnings, Better Futures on Youth at Ages 18–19
Authors: Love Norah , Nelson Geoffrey , Pancer S. Mark , Loomis Colleen , Hasford Julian
Published: March 2013

This study examined the long-term impacts of the Better Beginnings, Better Futures project, a universal, community-based prevention program. Generativity was studied as an indicator of positive mental health, using a narrative analysis of youths’ stories about turning points in their lives. A quasi-experimental design was used to compare youths aged 18–19 who participated in Better Beginnings when they were 4–8 (n = 62) and with youths from comparison communities who did not participate in Better Beginnings (n = 34). Significant differences between the 2 groups were found on 2 measures of generativity. The findings suggest the utility of adopting a narrative approach to evaluate the long-term outcomes of prevention programs for children and youth.
Curiosity Rover Rock Analysis Indicates Past Habitability on Mars
Authors: Showstack Randy
Published: March 2013

Following an analysis of a Martian rock sample that was drilled into by an instrument on board NASA's Curiosity Rover, agency and project scientists announced at a 12 March briefing that they now have evidence indicating that an area near where the rover landed in Gale Crater last August could have once supported ancient microbial life.
Survey on workforce retention and attrition
Authors: Showstack Randy
Published: March 2013

The Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) is conducting a survey to gather information on why technical professionals change jobs or quit working. The survey, prompted by concern about the retention of skilled workers, aims to provide information to employers that can assist them in addressing practices that can lead to significant workforce attrition. To participate in the survey, which is open to everyone (including those who are not SPE members), go to http://research.spe.org/se.ashx?s=705E3F1335720258 through 15 May 2013. For more information, contact speresearch@spe.org.
Renewable resources awards
Authors: Showstack Randy
Published: March 2013

The Renewable Natural Resources Foundation (RNRF) is accepting nominations for three awards that recognize outstanding achievements in the renewable resources fields: the Sustained Achievement Award, the Outstanding Achievement Award, and the Excellence in Journalism Award. The deadline for nominations for all three awards is 31 May 2013. For more information, see http://www.rnrf.org/awards.html.
Light Emission in the Unipolar Regime of Ambipolar Organic Field‐Effect Transistors
Authors: Roelofs W. S. Christian , Adriaans Willem H. , Janssen René A. J. , Kemerink Martijn , de Leeuw Dago M.
Published: March 2013

Light emission from ambipolar organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs) is often observed when they are operated in the unipolar regime. This is unexpected, the light emission should be completely suppressed, because in the unipolar regime only one type of charge carrier is accumulated. Here, an electroluminescent diketopyrrolopyrrole copolymer is investigated. Local potential measurements by scanning Kelvin probe microscopy reveal a recombination position that is unstable in time due to the presence of injection barriers. The electroluminescence and electrical transport have been numerically analyzed. It is shown that the counterintuitive unipolar light emission is quantitatively explained by injection of minority carriers into deep tail states of the semiconductor. The density of the injected minority carriers is small. Hence they are relatively immobile and they recombine close the contact with accumulated majority carriers. The unipolar light output is characterized by a constant efficiency independent of gate bias. It is argued that light emission from OFETs predominantly originates from the unipolar regime when the charge transport is injection limited.
Manipulating the Hysteresis in Poly(vinyl alcohol)‐Dielectric Organic Field‐Effect Transistors Toward Memory Elements
Authors: Tsai Tzung‐Da , Chang Jer‐Wei , Wen Ten‐Chin , Guo Tzung‐Fang
Published: March 2013

The origins of hysteresis in organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs) and its applications in organic memory devices is investigated. It is found that the orientations of the hydroxyl groups in poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) gate dielectrics are correlated with the hysteresis of transfer characteristics in pentacene‐based OFETs under the forward and backward scan. The applied gate bias partially aligns the orientations of the hydroxyl groups perpendicular to the substrate as characterized by reflective absorption Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (RA‐FTIR), in which the field‐induced surface dipoles at the pentacene/PVA interface trap charges and cause the hysteresis. Treating PVA with an anhydrous solvent eliminates the residual moisture in the dielectrics layer, allowing for more effective control of the induced dipoles by the applied gate bias. OFETs of dehydrated‐PVA dielectrics present a pronounced shift of the threshold voltage (ΔVTh) of 35.7 V in transfer characteristics, higher than that of 18.5 V for untreated devices and results in sufficient dynamic response for applications in memory elements. This work highlights the usage of non‐ferroelectric gate dielectrics to fabricate OFET memory elements by manipulating the molecular orientations in the dielectrics layer.
Flexible Films Derived from Electrospun Carbon Nanofibers Incorporated with Co3O4 Hollow Nanoparticles as Self‐Supported Electrodes for Electrochemical Capacitors
Authors: Zhang Fang , Yuan Changzhou , Zhu Jiajia , Wang Jie , Zhang Xiaogang , Lou Xiong Wen (David)
Published: March 2013

Flexible porous films are prepared from electrospun carbon nanofibers (CNFs) embedded with Co3O4 hollow nanoparticles (NPs) and are directly applied as self‐supported electrodes for high‐performance electrochemical capacitors. Uniform Co3O4 hollow NPs are well dispersed and/or embedded into each CNF with desirable electrical conductivity. These Co3O4‐CNFs intercross each other and form 3D hierarchical porous hybrid films. Benefiting from intriguing structural features, the unique binder‐free Co3O4 hollow NPs/CNF hybrid film electrodes exhibit high specific capacitance (SC), excellent rate capability and cycling stability. As an example, the flexible hybrid film with loading of 35.9 wt% Co3O4 delivers a SC of 556 F g−1 at a current density of 1 A g−1, and 403 F g−1 even at a very high current density of 12 A g−1. Remarkably, almost no decay in SC is found after continuous charge/discharge cycling for 2000 cycles at 4 A g−1. This exceptional electrochemical performance makes such novel self‐supported Co3O4‐CNFs hybrid films attractive for high‐performance electrochemical capacitors.
A Core‐Shell Nanoporous Pt‐Cu Catalyst with Tunable Composition and High Catalytic Activity
Authors: Ge Xingbo , Chen Luyang , Kang Jianli , Fujita Takeshi , Hirata Akihiko , Zhang Wei , Jiang Jianhua , Chen Mingwei
Published: March 2013

Composition‐controlled fabrication of bimetallic catalysts is of significance in electrochemical energy conversion and storage. A novel nanoporous Pt‐Cu bimetallic catalyst with a Pt skin and a Pt‐Cu core, fabricated by electrochemically dealloying a bulk Pt‐Cu binary alloy using a potential‐controlled approach, is reported. The Pt/Cu ratio of the dealloyed nanoporous catalyst can be readily adjusted in a wide composition range by only controlling dealloying potential. The electro‐catalytic performance of the nanoporous Pt‐Cu catalyst shows evident dependence on Pt/Cu ratio although the surfaces of all the nanoporous catalysts are characterized to be covered by pure Pt. With optimal compositions, the dealloyed nanoporous Pt‐Cu catalyst possesses enhanced electrocatalytic activities toward oxygen reduction reaction and formic acid oxidation in comparison with the commercial Pt/C catalyst.
Controllable Synthesis of Mesoporous TiO2 Hollow Shells: Toward an Efficient Photocatalyst
Authors: Joo Ji Bong , Lee Ilkeun , Dahl Michael , Moon Geon Dae , Zaera Francisco , Yin Yadong
Published: March 2013

TiO2 hollow shells with well‐controlled crystallinity, phase, and porosity are desirable in many applications. In photocatalysis in particular, they can provide high active surface area, reduced diffusion resistance, and improved accessibility to reactants. Here, the results from studies of the causes for the failure of a prior etching and calcination scheme to make such shells and on a newly‐developed simple yet robust process for producing uniform mesoporous TiO2 shells with precisely controllable crystallinity and phase are reported. The key finding is that base etching of the SiO2@TiO2 core‐shell particles leads to the formation of sodium titanate species, which, if not removed, promote substantial crystal growth during calcination and destroy the structural integrity of the TiO2 shells. A simple acid treatment of the base‐etched samples may convert the sodium titanates into protonated titanates, which not only prevent the formation of the impurity phases, but also help to maintain the structural integrity of the shell and allow precise control of the TiO2 phase and crystallinity. This new development affords convenient optimization of the structure of the hollow TiO2 shells toward efficient photocatalysts, which outperform the commercial P25‐TiO2 in the photocatalytic decomposition of organic dye molecules.
Efficient scheduling method of complex batch processes with general network structure via agent‐based modeling
Authors: Chu Yunfei , Wassick John M. , You Fengqi
Published: March 2013

A novel efficient agent‐based method for scheduling network batch processes in the process industry is proposed. The agent‐based model is based on the resource‐task network. To overcome the drawback of localized solutions found in conventional agent‐based methods, a new scheduling algorithm is proposed. The algorithm predicts the objective function value by simulating another cloned agent‐based model. Global information is obtained, and the solution quality is improved. The solution quality of this approach is validated by detailed comparisons with the mixed‐integer programming (MIP) methods. A solution close to the optimal one can be found by the agent‐based method with a much shorter computational time than the MIP methods. As a scheduling problem becomes increasingly complicated with increased scale, more specifications, and uncertainties, the advantages of the agent‐based method become more evident. The proposed method is applied to simulated industrial problems where the MIP methods require excessive computational resources. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 59: 2884–2906, 2013
Mortality among shipbreaking workers in Taiwan—A retrospective cohort study from 1985 to 2008
Authors: Wu Wei‐Te , Lu Yao‐Hua , Lin Yu‐Jen , Yang Ya‐Hui , Shiue Huei‐Sheng , Hsu Jin‐Huei , Li Chung‐Yi , Yang Chun‐Yuh , Liou Saou‐Hsing , Wu Trong‐Neng
Published: March 2013

Background

Shipbreaking workers are typically exposed to a wide range of hazardous chemicals. However, long‐term follow‐up studies of their mortality patterns are lacking. This study examined mortality among shipbreaking workers over a 24‐year follow‐up period.

Methods

A total of 4,962 shipbreaking workers were recruited from the database of the Kaohsiung Shipbreaking Workers Union. The data were then linked to the Taiwan National Death Registry from 1985 to 2008. The mortality ratios—standardized for age and calendar years—(SMRs) for various causes of deaths were calculated with reference to the general population of Taiwan.

Results

Among men workers, a statistically significant increased SMR was observed for all causes (SMR = 1.28), all cancers (SMR = 1.26; particularly noteworthy for lesions of oral and nasopharyngeal: SMR 2.03, liver: SMR 4.63, and lung: SMR 1.36), cirrhosis of the liver (SMR = 1.32), and accidents (SMR = 1.91). A statistically significant increase in mortality was observed for respiratory system cancer (SMR = 1.87) and lung cancer (SMR = 1.91) among workers with a longer duration of employment (≥7 years). The result also showed that among shipbreaking workers who were still alive, two people had mesothelioma and 10 people have asbestosis.

Conclusions

Those employed in shipbreaking industries experienced an increase in mortality from all causes. The increased SMR for lung cancer was probably related to asbestos, metals, and welding fume exposure. Am. J. Ind. Med. 56:701–708, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Promoting integrated approaches to reducing health inequities among low‐income workers: Applying a social ecological framework
Authors: Baron Sherry L. , Beard Sharon , Davis Letitia K. , Delp Linda , Forst Linda , Kidd‐Taylor Andrea , Liebman Amy K. , Linnan Laura , Punnett Laura , Welch Laura S.
Published: March 2013

Background

Nearly one of every three workers in the United States is low‐income. Low‐income populations have a lower life expectancy and greater rates of chronic diseases compared to those with higher incomes. Low‐ income workers face hazards in their workplaces as well as in their communities. Developing integrated public health programs that address these combined health hazards, especially the interaction of occupational and non‐occupational risk factors, can promote greater health equity.

Methods

We apply a social‐ecological perspective in considering ways to improve the health of the low‐income working population through integrated health protection and health promotion programs initiated in four different settings: the worksite, state and local health departments, community health centers, and community‐based organizations.

Results

Examples of successful approaches to developing integrated programs are presented in each of these settings. These examples illustrate several complementary venues for public health programs that consider the complex interplay between work‐related and non work‐related factors, that integrate health protection with health promotion and that are delivered at multiple levels to improve health for low‐income workers.

Conclusions

Whether at the workplace or in the community, employers, workers, labor and community advocates, in partnership with public health practitioners, can deliver comprehensive and integrated health protection and health promotion programs. Recommendations for improved research, training, and coordination among health departments, health practitioners, worksites and community organizations are proposed. Am. J. Ind. Med. 57:539–556, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Short, fine and WHO asbestos fibers in the lungs of quebec workers with an asbestos‐related disease
Authors: Adib Georges , Labrèche France , De Guire Louise , Dion Chantal , Dufresne André
Published: March 2013

Background

The possible role of short asbestos fibers in the development of asbestos‐related diseases and availability of lung fiber burden data prompted this study on the relationships between fiber characteristics and asbestos‐related diseases among compensated workers.

Methods

Data collected between 1988 and 2007 for compensation purposes were used; lung asbestos fibers content of 123 Quebec workers are described according to socio‐demographic characteristics, job histories and diseases (asbestosis, mesothelioma, lung cancer).

Results

Most workers (85%) presented chrysotile fibers in their lungs, and respectively 76%, 64%, and 43% had tremolite, amosite, and crocidolite. Half of the total fibers were short, 30% were thin fibers and 20% corresponded to the World Health Organization definition of fibers (length ≥ 5 μm, diameter ≥ 0.2 and <3 μm). Chrysotile fibers were still observed in the lungs of workers 30 years or more after last exposure.

Conclusion

Our findings stress the relevance of considering several dimensional criteria to characterize health risks associated with asbestos inhalation. Am. J. Ind. Med. 56:1001–1014, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fatal occupational injuries among U.S. law enforcement officers: A comparison of national surveillance systems
Authors: Tiesman Hope M. , Swedler David I. , Konda Srinivas , Pollack Keshia M.
Published: March 2013

Background

This study describes and compares the three surveillance systems used to record occupational injury fatalities among U.S. law enforcement officers (LEOs).

Methods

The Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries (CFOI), National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund database (NLEOMF), and Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted reports (LEOKA) were examined for LEO deaths between 2003 and 2009. Fatality rates per 100,000 workers were calculated and compared.

Results

Between 2003 and 2009, the NLEOMF reported 1,050 fatalities (rate of 16.4 per 100,000 workers), the CFOI reported 968 fatalities (15.1 per 100,000), and the LEOKA recorded 853 fatalities (13.3 per 100,000). The LEOKA under‐counted the number of fatalities compared to the NLEOMF and CFOI. Discrepancies were found between the LEOKA, NLEOMF, and CFOI regarding age, race, and Hispanic origin. Similar patterns for cause of fatality were found; however, the NLEOMF recorded a higher number of “other” fatalities compared to the other two systems.

Conclusions

This study fills a critical knowledge gap by providing an overview of the three surveillance systems used to enumerate LEO occupational deaths. Understanding the differences across the systems is critical when utilizing them for surveillance research. Am. J. Ind. Med. 56:693–700, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Health care access and health care workforce for immigrant workers in the agriculture, forestry, and fisheries sector in the southeastern US
Authors: Frank Arthur L. , Liebman Amy K. , Ryder Bobbi , Weir Maria , Arcury Thomas A.
Published: March 2013

Background

The Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishery (AgFF) Sector workforce in the US is comprised primarily of Latino immigrants. Health care access for these workers is limited and increases health disparities.

Methods

This article addresses health care access for immigrant workers in the AgFF Sector, and the workforce providing care to these workers.

Contents

Immigrant workers bear a disproportionate burden of poverty and ill health and additionally face significant occupational hazards. AgFF laborers largely are uninsured, ineligible for benefits, and unable to afford health services. The new Affordable Care Act will likely not benefit such individuals. Community and Migrant Health Centers (C/MHCs) are the frontline of health care access for immigrant AgFF workers. C/MHCs offer discounted health services that are tailored to meet the special needs of their underserved clientele. C/MHCs struggle, however, with a shortage of primary care providers and staff prepared to treat occupational illness and injury among AgFF workers. A number of programs across the US aim to increase the number of primary care physicians and care givers trained in occupational health at C/MHCs. While such programs are beneficial, substantial action is needed at the national level to strengthen and expand the C/MHC system and to establish widely Medical Home models and Accountable Care Organizations. System‐wide policy changes alone have the potential to reduce and eliminate the rampant health disparities experienced by the immigrant workers who sustain the vital Agricultural, Forestry, and Fishery sector in the US. Am. J. Ind. Med. 56:960–974, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Acute renal failure associated with diphosphonic ACID (HEDP): A case report
Authors: Ozdemir Ali , Dalbeler Aysegül , Bilen Aslı , Sevinc Can , Isık Elvan
Published: March 2013

A 26‐year‐old man with no significant past medical history presented to emergency department 1 hr after ingesting approximately 200 ml of HEDP 2010 organophosphoric acid corrosion inhibitor. He had normal vital signs, physical examination and biochemical parameters. After 24 hr, he developed nausea with a decreased urine output. While his blood urea nitrogen, creatinine and uric acid levels increased to 36 mg/dl, 3.87 mg/dl, and 8.4 mg/dl, respectively; his serum calcium and phosphorus levels decreased to 7.4 mg/dl and 1.4 mg/dl, respectively. He had proteinuria, glucosuria, leukocyturia and high phosphorus excretion in the urine. On ultrasonographic examination, the kidneys were slightly enlarged and edematous. On the third day of hospitalization, creatinine level increased to 8.81 mg/dl and metabolic acidosis developed. He underwent to hemodialysis therapy and renal functions improved uneventfully.

Conclusion

This case represents an example of acute renal failure developed and recovering uneventfully after unintentionally ingestion of a bisphosphonate used in industry.

Am. J. Ind. Med. 56:720–723, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Determining the target value of ACICD to optimize the electrical characteristics of semiconductors using dual response surface optimization
Authors: Lee Dong‐Hee , Kim Kwang‐Jae
Published: March 2013

After Cleaning Inspection Critical Dimension (ACICD), one of the main variables in the etch process, affects the electrical characteristics of fabricated semiconductor chips. Its target value should be determined to minimize the bias and variability of these electrical characteristics. This paper presents a case study in which the target value of ACICD is determined by the dual response optimization method. In particular, the recently developed posterior approach to dual response optimization is employed allowing the analyst to determine easily the optimal compromise between bias and variability in the electrical characteristics. The performance at the obtained optimal ACICD setting has been shown to be better than that at the existing setting. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.