bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Capacity Criteria Key to SDWA Implementation
Authors: Pontius Frederick W.
Published: June 2018

The US Environmental Protection Agency is in the beginning phases of an ambitious schedule to implement the 1996 Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) amendments. New regulations, new initiatives, and more reliance on state drinking water agencies will usher in significant change for both large and small water systems. This article discusses whether systems will have the capacity to adjust and change as regulations are implemented. The term “capacity” refers to the capability of a water system to perform up to an accepted benchmark or criteria. The article goes on to discuss in depth three areas ‐ technical, managerial, and financial capacity as they relate to water systems and the SDWA.
A Strategy for Coexisting With Zebra Mussels
Authors: Sarrouh Sami
Published: June 2018

This article discusses the strategy that the Cleveland Division of Water (CWD) used to solve its zebra mussel problem in the early 1990s. CWD decided to allow them to exist but prevent them from accumulating in overwhelming quantities. CWD dealt with the mussels at three locations: the head of the intakes; the shore shafts; and, the screen wells. The options that CWD used are discussed along with chemical treatment for zebra mussels and its disadvantages. CWD continuously monitors their intakes' hydraulic health to trend the amount of infestation, and divers annually inspect submerged cribs and water‐blast the mussels off the trash racks if the infestation is severe. CWD has operated without interruption and with few additional expenses since their strategy was started.
Introducing the New Federal Regulations for Disinfectants, DBPs, and Microbials
Authors: Pontius Fred
Published: June 2018

This article discusses two rules published by the US Environmental Protection Agency intended to protect customers against harmful levels of disinfectants (D), disinfection byproducts (DBP), and microbial contaminants. Three major components of the Stage 1 D/DBP Rule are discussed: maximum residual disinfectant level goals and maximum residual disinfectant levels for chlorine, chloramines, and chlorine dioxide; maximum contaminant levels for total trihalomethanes at 0.080 mg/L and the sum of 5 haloacetic acids at 0.060 mg/L; and, precursor removal requirements for surface water systems using conventional treatment. Several major components of the Interim Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule (IESWTR) are also discussed: a maximum contaminant level goal of zero for Cryptosporidium; increased turbidity performance standards for filtration; individual filter performance requirements; disinfection profiling and benchmarking requirements; prohibition on construction of new uncovered finished water reservoirs; and, requirements that the state conduct sanitary surveys for all systems using surface water or groundwater under direct influence of surface water. Compliance dates for both the Stage 1 D/DBP Rule and the IESWTR are listed.
Enhanced Coagulation Can Load Residuals Concerns
Authors: Schafran Cary C. , Kelkar Uday C.
Published: June 2018

This is the second of two articles by the American Water Works Association's Coagulation and Filtration Committee on enhanced coagulation and softening as they pertain to the new Stage 1 Disinfectants/Disinfection Byproducts Rule. The first article, in the June 1999 issue of Opflow, addressed the why and how of enhanced treatment. This article discusses the secondary effects of enhanced treatment.
Liability Reduced with Extended Valve Box Lid
Authors: Cerbin Mark
Published: June 2018

Liability for property and personal injury is a concern for utilities. One concern is the potential for personal injury when a drop‐in lid is dislodged. Many standard drop‐in lids pop out when a vehicle drives over them. The lids sometimes bounce under the vehicle and damage the vehicle's undercarriage. The Extended Valve Box Lid replaces the standard drop‐in lid and is installed and removed the same as a standard lid. However, the extension on the Extended Valve Box Lid acts as an anchor to help hold the lid in place.
Hydrant Policy Prevents Water Theft, Backflow
Authors: Bombay Jeff
Published: June 2018

This article describes a practical hydrant meter use policy developed at Denver Water that was based on the results of a survey sent to a select group of American Water Works Association members. Of the districts requiring hydrant meter use, 82 percent were satisfied with their policies, and those not satisfied indicated they would merely increase fines or deposits.
A Clear Path to Small System Training
Authors: Clark Michael J.
Published: June 2018

This article describes a program to assist regional operator groups in obtaining education and training that will result in improved utility operations, customer service, and a safe water supply. Called “CLEAR” (Coalitions for Learning, Education, and Assistance Regionally), the major objective of the program is to schedule sufficient numbers of regional meetings so that travel distances will be short, about 30 miles maximum one way. Locations for meetings are established by regional operator groups and can rotate from one utility to another. Established in 1997, CLEAR was created by the Wisconsin Water Association, a section of the American Water Works Association.
Follow the Fluoride to Decrease Water Age
Authors: Light Kevan M.
Published: June 2018

In order to ensure delivery of the freshest, highest quality water to its customers, the Peterborough, Ontario Water Treatment Plant conducted a tracer study, using fluoride as a tracer. The article discusses why a tracer study was used, the difference between chemical and fluoride tracers, and how the study was done. A list of further sources of information is provided.
What Is a Governing Board's Role?
Authors: Stubbart John
Published: June 2018

This month's question asks about the responsibilities of water board members and what the term “management capacity” refers to. The article defines “management capacity” as the ability to conduct the affairs of the system to achieve and maintain compliance. The article discusses the components of management capacity that include: legitimate organization; structure of organization; rules and regulations; policies and procedures; and, performance and results management. The article lists a variety of skills that effective utility board members need to have, along with a list of a utility board's basic legal responsibilities, and a third list of a board's basic fiduciary responsibilities.
Reinventing Water Regulations for New Challenges
Authors: Cupps Katharine C.
Published: June 2018

This article discusses Washington State's Reclaimed Water Use Act (RWUA) of 1992, and how under the RWUA reclaimed water is no longer considered wastewater. The article discusses how the program's administration is divided between Washington State's Department of Ecology and Department of Health. In 1997, the state budgeted $10 million for five demonstration projects, with the goal of developing cost‐effective solutions for small communities. The projects and facilities became operational between 1999 and 2003. The article lists issues that need to be addressed to enable the state of Washington to develop and implement a sustainable water reuse program, and also lists focus areas of an action plan prepared by the Department of Ecology for continuing program development and implementation.
Calibrating Distribution System Models with Fire‐Flow Tests
Authors: Grayman Walter M. , Maslia Morris L. , Sautner Jason B.
Published: June 2018

This article discusses an alternative approach for conducting a fire‐flow test developed as part of an ongoing study at the U.S. Marine Corps Base Camp in Lejeune, North Carolina. The enhanced test procedure was developed to improve labor efficiency associated with conducting fire‐flow tests and to collect additional data for calibration purposes. The article lists five different flow conditions that were studied during the test and discusses test results. It was determined that this procedure, when compared to normal protocols for conducting flow tests, can be accomplished by smaller crews and performed faster, resulting in more data that could be used for model calibration.
Multiple Barriers for a Smelly Situation
Authors: Waer Mark A.
Published: June 2018

This article discusses using multiple processes that are integrated in an optimized treatment scheme to provide reliable taste and odor control at decreased capital and operating costs. Examples of using such combinations are discussed. Ozone and biofiltration provide an excellent and low‐cost solution for removing high percentages of taste and odor compounds, while granular activated carbon (GAC) serves as a backstop against any taste and odor escaping the plant. Although GAC is normally expensive to install and operate, in this case the operational cost is minimized by maintaining a long replacement interval through the use of upstream processes.
Planning for Emergencies: Access vs. Security
Authors: Gertig Kevin R.
Published: June 2018

This article discusses emergency planning, focusing on site entrance modifications and site familiarity for emergency responders to enhance their response times. General considerations discussed include: conducting plant site tours for fire and law enforcement agencies to gain site familiarity; secured boxes containing critical maps, emergency contact phone numbers, access keys or magnetic cards, and Material Safety Data Sheets; direct radio communication or panic alarms worn and activated by operators; identifying risks and types of situations that could occur; and, training, reviewing, and practicing the emergency plan.
How Can You Control Organic Contaminants?
Authors:   AWWA Organic Contaminants Control Committee
Published: June 2018

This article discusses removal processes for organic contaminants such as natural organic matter (NOM), synthetic volatile organic compounds (VOCs), pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs), herbicides, pesticides, and naturally occuring organic contaminants such as algal toxins and taste and odor compounds. Removal technologies discussed include coagulation‐ filtration‐sedimentation vs. conventional treatment, adsorption, oxidation, filtration, and air stripping.
Parallel Pumps: Reduce Energy Costs Without Breaking the Budget
Authors: Budris Allan R.
Published: June 2018

This article discusses an option for reducing pump energy consumption that involves selecting the most energy‐efficient pump or pumps, thus yielding substantial benefits with no capital investment. Specifically, this involves applications with two or more pumps operating in parallel, sharing the same suction and discharge headers and operating against the same discharge head. The article discusses how to determine the most energy efficient pumps, and how to quantify results. The article includes an inset on monitoring pump operation and provides a list of maintenance practices for pumps.
Reinvest in Our Drinking Water Infrastructure
Authors: Degen Don
Published: June 2018

This article discusses the urgency of reinvesting in water infrastructure as it approaches the end of its useful life within the next 30‐40 years. The article offers information in AWWA's regular State of the Industry Report on this subject, including the following: the financial burden on water utilities created by this reinvestment; current water main replacement average costs per household; how population declines and demographic shifts are affecting the per capita replacement costs; and, the concurrent challenges faced by water utilities of upgrading infrastructure to comply with new regulatory requirements.
Made in the: Shade
Authors: Tomerlin Carol
Published: June 2018

This article discusses an innovative approach to bromate treatment used by the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP), called “shade balls” which keep bromide and chlorine from reacting with sunlight. LADWP covered three of its open‐air posttreatment reservoirs, that were found to have elevated levels of bromate, with millions of 4 inch black, high‐density polyethylene vapor control balls. These shade balls prevented bromate formation by shading the reservoir water from sunlight.
Common Ground: Bridge Generation Gaps in the Workplace
Authors: Mestayer Kathi
Published: June 2018

This article discusses how to interpret and use demographic data to better manage diverse workforce populations. The article presents a broader understanding of the 4‐generations found in the current workforce in order to provide the context in which the workforce can begin to understand each other to enhance working relationships. The article identifies the four generation‐groups as Traditionalists, Baby Boomers, and Generation Xers and Y/Millennials. Socioeconomic trends are discussed, including four categories that U.S. citizens are grouped into based on their movement across income‐level groups over time. The article identifies a sustained decline in social engagement, and the changes that contributed to this decline that are outside any generation's control. Potential strategies are provided for identifying new generational dynamics and how to work with, not against, them.
What Should I Know About Purchasing and Installing a Package Water Treatment System?
Authors: Mercer Ken
Published: June 2018

This month's question asks how to determine whether a package water treatment system is suitable for a small water system. The article first suggests that you have a clear understanding of the difference between what you want and what's readily available. Using a compact package plant may facilitate a fast‐track design, provide quick delivery, reduce on‐site construction costs, and require less fieldwork. Key points discussed in the article that can ensure the success of a package system include: prepare a strong performance‐based specification and assess design standards on a plant‐by‐plant basis; ensure your vendor, engineer, and primary regulator agree the system is suitably designed to treat the source water; if water quality could vary rapidly, use a conservative design and increase system control flexibility to handle situations not initially anticipated; and, if modifications are required, ensure the manufacturer has a strong understanding of what's required.
Canada Geese: Tranquil Symbol of the Wild or Pathogen Carrier?
Authors: Jellison Kristen L.
Published: June 2018

This article discusses a study by the Philadelphia Water Department to determine the role of geese in disseminating human‐pathogenic Cryptosporidium oocysts in the watershed for Philadelphia's drinking water supply. Data is provided on Cryptosporidium species/genotypes detected in goose fecal samples, health risks associated with Cryptosporidium species/ genotypes detected in goose fecal samples, and Cryptosporidium species/genotype locations of detection.
Technology Advances Put Security Measures Within Reach
Authors: Mix Nelson , Piokard Brian , Lai Alan , Gist Forrest
Published: June 2018

This article discusses recent technology developments in security equipment used by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Enhanced Security Monitoring (ESM) component. ESM is a key element of a contamination warning system and includes equipment and procedures used for real‐time detection and timely response to security breaches at high‐risk distribution system facilities. ESM relies heavily on established security equipment, such as cameras and motion sensors that have proved effective in other critical infrastructure sectors. The article focuses on recent developments and industry trends for intrusion detection, access control, video surveillance, and communication methods.
Monitor Source Water UV254 to Enhance Operations
Authors: Yavich Alex A. , van de Wege Jim
Published: June 2018

This article discusses how operators at several water plants are using UV254 monitoring data to improve chemical feed control, reduce filter effluent turbidity, and reduce chemical use and sludge production. This simple UV254 analysis is conducted according to the 5910 Ultraviolet Absorption Method found in Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater.
System Optimization Coagulant Study Leads to Improved Treatment
Authors: Cochran Jeff , Barron Patty , Nabors April , Cox Wendell
Published: June 2018

This article discusses a pilot plant study at the Birmingham (Alabama) Water Works Board's (BWWB's) Shades Mountain Filter Plant to evaluate various coagulant doses to improve total organic carbon (TOC) removal, provide consistent floc formation, and reduce settled turbidity. The project's goal was to identify a process that out‐performed the plant's established coagulation regime, which consisted of aluminum sulfate (alum) and a coagulant aid. More than 250 coagulation conditions were tested. BWWB personnel concluded that ferric sulfate significantly improved TOC removal, provided consistent floc formation, and reduced settled turbidity. In addition, ferric sulfate worked for a wider range of raw water conditions when compared with alum. Much of the success of using ferric sulfate for TOC removal hinged on feeding 80‐100 ppm, which was possible because of high levels of raw alkalinity.
Take the Mystery Out of Cavitation
Authors: Clarke Brad , Oksanen Kari
Published: June 2018

This article discusses cavitation, including its effects on valves and predicting its occurrence.
National natural rates of interest and the single monetary policy in the euro area
Authors: Fries Sébastien , Mésonnier Jean‐Stéphane , Mouabbi Sarah , Renne Jean‐Paul
Published: June 2018

We estimate time‐varying national natural real rates of interest (r∗) for the four largest economies of the euro area over 1999–2016. We further derive the associated national real interest rate gaps, which gauge the perceived monetary policy stance in each country. We find that the average r∗ have been lower after 2008. Furthermore, national r∗ were significantly negative in southern countries during the sovereign crisis. As their effective real rates soared, national rate gaps across the euro area diverged. However, a common policy stance has been restored since 2014 as the European Central Bank's unconventional programs gathered pace.
Examining the effectiveness of an intensive, 2‐week treatment program for military personnel and veterans with PTSD: Results of a pilot, open‐label, prospective cohort trial
Authors: Bryan Craig J. , Leifker Feea R. , Rozek David C. , Bryan AnnaBelle O. , Reynolds Mira L. , Oakey D. Nicolas , Roberge Erika
Published: June 2018

Objective

This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of cognitive processing therapy (CPT) for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) when administered on a daily basis during a 2‐week period of time.

Method

In an open‐label, prospective cohort pilot trial, 20 U.S. military personnel and veterans diagnosed with PTSD or subthreshold PTSD participated in 12 daily sessions of CPT. Primary outcomes included Clinician Administered PTSD Scale for DSM‐5 and PTSD Checklist for DSM‐5 scores. Secondary outcomes included Patient Health Questionnaire‐8 and Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation (BSSI) scores. Interviews and self‐report scales were completed at pretreatment, posttreatment, and 6 months after the treatment.

Results

Relative to baseline, PTSD symptom severity and rates of PTSD diagnosis were significantly reduced at posttreatment and 6‐month follow‐up. Depression symptom severity did not significantly improve, but suicide ideation significantly decreased at 6‐month follow‐up.

Conclusions

Daily administration of CPT is associated with significant reductions in PTSD and suicide ideation.
The association between program credibility, expectancy, and acceptability with baseline pathology and outcome for a body acceptance prevention program
Authors: Stinson Emma J. , Perez Marisol , Ohrt Tara K. , Von Schell Anna , Bruening Amanda B.
Published: June 2018

Objective

The current study sought to investigate whether credibility, expectancy, and acceptability of the Body Project is impacted by level of disordered eating pathology and whether perceived credibility, expectancy, and acceptability impacts treatment outcomes.

Methods

The sample included 170 undergraduate women from a large public university. Participants completed self‐report questionnaires on perceived credibility, expectancy, treatment acceptability, and disordered eating measures. A random subset of 51 participants provided 3‐month follow‐up measurements.

Results

Analyses revealed that post‐prevention credibility, expectancy, and treatment acceptability scores were negatively associated with baseline thin‐ideal internalization, baseline weight, and shape concerns, and positively associated with baseline body satisfaction and the baseline restraint subscale of the EDEQ. Perceived credibility, expectancy, and treatment acceptability were not associated with session attendance or 3‐month follow‐up disordered eating scores.

Discussion

The Body Project is effective at reducing disordered eating regardless of whether participants liked the program or not.
Synthesis and Characterization of Some Novel Phosphorylated 4‐Oxo‐2‐phenylquinazolines
Authors: Assiri Mohammed A. , Ali Tarik E. , El‐Edfawy Somaya M. , Yahia I. S.
Published: June 2018

Some novel phosphines, aminophosphines and their oxides, and derived phosphorus acids bearing 4‐oxo‐2‐phenylquinazolin‐3‐yl moiety were synthesized. The methodology depended on the reaction of each 2‐phenylquinazolin‐4(3H)‐one (1) and 3‐amino‐2‐phenyl‐quinazolin‐4(3H)‐one (2) with (Ph)2PCl, PhPCl2, and PhP (O)Cl2 in different ratios. The synthesized compounds were characterized by elemental analysis and spectral tools.
Electrochemical impedence spectroscopy enabled CA125 detection; toward early ovarian cancer diagnosis using graphene biosensors
Authors: Gazze Andrea , Ademefun Richard , Conlan Robert Steven , Teixeira Sofia Rodrigues
Published: June 2018

With current diagnostic methods detection of stage 1 or 2 ovarian cancer using CA125 is possible in only 75% of cases. The ability to detect CA125 at lower concentrations could significantly improve such early stage diagnosis. Here, the use of screen‐printed graphene biosensors as a label‐free detection platform for CA125 was evaluated. The sensor was fabricated through deposition of a polyaniline layer via electropolymerisation on to a graphene screen‐printed electrode. The sensor surface was functionalised with anti‐CA125 antibody via covalent cross linking to polyaniline. The fabrication process was characterised through cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The limit of detection achieved was 0.923 ng/μL across a dynamic range of 0.92 pg/μL–15.20 ng/μL and represents the most sensitive CA125 detection reported to date. With sensitivity limits at this level, it will now be possible to conduct clinical trials using serum samples collected from early stage ovarian cancer patients and at risk individuals.
Physico‐chemical factors influencing spore germination in cyanobacterium Fischerella muscicola
Authors: Mishra Biranchi N. , Kaushik Manish S. , Abraham Gerard , Singh Pawan K.
Published: June 2018

Spore (akinete) formation in the heterocystous and branched filamentous cyanobacterium Fischerella muscicola involves a significant increase in cell size and formation of several endospores in each of the cells. In present study, the physico‐chemical factors (pH, light sources, nutrient deficiency, nitrogen sources, carbon sources, and growth hormones) affecting the germination of spores of F. muscicola were examined. Increase in spore germination frequency was detected above pH 8 with maximum germination (46.04%) recorded at pH 9, whereas a significant decrease in germination was observed at pH 6 when compared to control (pH 7.6). Spore germination was not observed at pH 5. Among light sources germination frequency followed the following order, that is, red light (39.9%) > white light (33.8%) > yellow light (3.4%) > green light (1.3%) whereas germination did not take place in dark and blue light. Ammonium chloride (NH4Cl) supported maximum (99.5%) germination frequency followed by calcium nitrate (Ca(NO3)2), potassium nitrate (KNO3), and minimum germination was observed in urea. Nutrient (phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium) deficiency significantly enhanced the germination frequency with maximum increase in magnesium (Mg) deficient condition. Further, supplementation of carbon sources (glucose, fructose, and sodium acetate) and growth hormones (IAA and GA) also enhanced the germination frequency in this cyanobacterium. Therefore, it may be concluded that, those factors supporting higher germination frequency could be considered for successful production and use of this cyanobacterium in biofertilizer and other algal production technologies.
Investigating gender and ethnicity differences in proximal humeral morphology using a statistical shape model
Authors: Sintini Irene , Burton William S. , Sade Paul , Chavarria Jason M. , Laz Peter J.
Published: June 2018

Morphological variability in the shoulder influences the joint biomechanics and is an important consideration in arthroplasty and implant design. The objectives of this study were to quantify cortical and cancellous proximal humeral morphology and to assess whether shape variation was influenced by gender and ethnicity, with the overarching goal of informing implant design and treatment. A statistical shape model of the proximal humeral cortical and cancellous regions was developed for a training set of 84 subjects of both genders and different ethnicities. Cortical and cancellous bone geometries were reconstructed from CT scans, meshed with triangular elements, and registered to a template. Principal component analysis was applied to quantify modes of variation. Anatomical measurements were computed on the registered geometries to assess correlation with modes of variation. Parallel analysis identified six significant modes of variation, which accounted for 93% of variation in the training set and described scaling (Mode 1), inclination of the head (Modes 2 and 5), and shape of the greater tuberosity and neck region (Modes 3, 4, and 6). Size differences as described by Mode 1 were statistically significant for gender and ethnicity, where female and Asian subjects were smaller than male and Caucasian subjects, respectively; however, differences in other modes were not significant. Cortical thickness of the shaft after normalization by outer diameter was significantly larger for Asian subjects compared to Caucasian subjects. The statistical shape model quantified cortical and cancellous humeral morphology considering gender and ethnicity, providing descriptive data to support surgical planning, and implant design. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:3043–3052, 2018.
Laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy for gastric neoplasms
Authors: Kukar Moshim , Gabriel Emmanuel , Ben‐David Kfir , Hochwald Steven N.
Published: June 2018

Background

For cancers of the distal gastroesophageal junction or the proximal stomach, proximal gastrectomy can be performed. It is associated with several perioperative benefits compared with total gastrectomy. The use of laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy (LPG) has become an increasingly popular approach for select tumors.

Methods

We describe our method of LPG, including the preoperative work‐up, illustrated depictions of the key steps of the surgery, and our postoperative pathway.

Results

A total of 6 patients underwent LPG between July, 2013 to June, 2017. Five patients had early‐stage adenocarcinoma, and 1 patient had a gastrointestinal stromal tumor. The median age of the cohort was 70, and each patient had significant comorbidities. Conversion to open was required for 1 patient. All patients had negative final margins and an adequate lymph node dissection (median number of nodes examined was 15, range 12‐22). The median postoperative length of stay was 7 days (range 4‐7). Two patients developed anastomotic strictures requiring intervention, and 1 patient experienced significant reflux. At a median follow‐up of 11 months, there was 1 recurrence. Three patients were alive without evidence of disease, and 2 patients died from other causes.

Conclusions

For carefully selected patients, LPG is a safe and reasonable alternative to total gastrectomy, which is associated with similar oncologic outcomes and low morbidity.
The importance of indocyanine green near‐infrared fluorescence angiography in perfusion assessment in vascularized omentum lymphatic transplant
Authors: Coriddi Michelle , Kenworthy Elizabeth , Weinstein Andrew , Mehrara Babak J. , Dayan Joseph H.
Published: June 2018

Background and Objective

Vascularized omentum lymphatic transplant (VOLT) for treatment of lymphedema has become popular because of no risk of iatrogenic lymphedema and abundant lymphatic tissue. However, perfusion to the omentum can be difficult to assess clinically. The purpose of this study was to clarify the incidence and degree of ischemia in the omentum.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted to review indocyanine green perfusion findings on patients undergoing VOLT. Patients were placed into 4 categories based on the percentage surface area of omentum that was ischemic: normal, less than 25%, between 25% and 50%, and greater than 50% ischemic. Spearman correlation was performed to determine whether an association exists between prior abdominal surgery and the presence of ischemia.

Results

Twenty‐six patients underwent VOLT for treatment of extremity lymphedema. Twelve (46.2%) patients had normal perfusion, 8 patients (30.8%) had less than 25% ischemia, and 6 patients (23.1%) had 25% to 50% ischemia. Prior abdominal surgery was not significantly associated with the presence of ischemia.

Conclusions

Normal flap perfusion is a requisite for successful VOLT harvest. However, over half the patients had some degree of abnormal perfusion irrespective of prior abdominal surgery. Indocyanine green angiography is an important tool in ensuring a healthy lymphatic reconstruction.
Spin Momentum–Locked Surface States in Metamaterials without Topological Transition
Authors: Peng Liang , Chen Yuntian , Yang Yihao , Wang Zhiyu , Yu Faxin , Wang Gaofeng , Shen Nian‐Hai , Zhang Baile , Soukoulis Costas M. , Chen Hongsheng
Published: June 2018

The photonic analogy of the quantum spin Hall Effect, that is, a photonic topological insulator (PTI), is of great relevance to science and technology in optics based on the promise of scattering‐free surface states. The challenges in realizing such scattering‐free surface states in PTIs and other types of symmetry‐protected topological phases are the result of the exact symmetry needed for creating a pair of time reversal pseudo‐spin states or special boundary conditions, wherein the exact symmetry imposes strict requirements on materials or boundary conditions. Here, it is experimentally demonstrated that scattering‐free edge states can be created with neither the aforementioned exact symmetry requirements for materials nor the topological transitions. This system is constructed by simply placing together regular homogeneous metamaterials, which are characterized by highly different bianisotropies. Of the particular surface states, backward reflection would be deeply suppressed, provided that the related evanescent tail into the bulk regions vanishes shortly and that the pseudo‐spin is not flipped by the scatterers. This work gives an example of constructing scattering‐free surface states in classical systems without strict symmetry protections and may potentially stimulate various novel applications in the future.
A452, an HDAC6‐selective inhibitor, synergistically enhances the anticancer activity of chemotherapeutic agents in colorectal cancer cells
Authors: Won Hye‐Rim , Ryu Hyun‐Wook , Shin Dong‐Hee , Yeon Soo‐Keun , Lee Dong Hoon , Kwon So Hee
Published: June 2018

Although histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) alone could be clinically useful, these are most recently used in combination with other anticancer agents in clinical trials for cancer treatment. Recently, we reported the anticancer activity of an HDAC6‐selective inhibitor A452 toward various cancer cell types. This study aims to present a potent synergistic antiproliferative effect of A452/anticancer agent treatment in colorectal cancer cells (CRC) cells, independently of the p53 status. A452 in combination with irinotecan, or SAHA is more potent than either drug alone in the apoptotic pathway as evidenced by activated caspase‐3 and PARP, increased Bak and pp38, decreased Bcl‐xL, pERK, and pAKT, and induced apoptotic cells. Furthermore, A452 enhances DNA damage induced by anticancer agents as indicated by the increased accumulation of γH2AX and the activation of the checkpoint kinase Chk2. The silencing of HDAC6 enhances the cell growth inhibition and cell death caused by anticancer agents. In addition, A452 induces the synergistic suppression of cell migration and invasion. This study suggests a mechanism by which HDAC6‐selective inhibition can enhance the efficacy of specific anticancer agents in CRC cells.
KAP1 inhibits the Raf‐MEK‐ERK pathway to promote tumorigenesis in A549 lung cancer cells
Authors: Wu Guo‐Jin , Pen Jun , Huang Ying , An Su , Liu Ying , Yang Yang , Hao Qian , Guo Xiao‐Xi , Xu Tian‐Rui
Published: June 2018

Aberrant activation of the Raf‐MEK‐ERK pathway has frequently been associated with various cancers, especially lung cancer. However, the key regulators of this pathway are largely unknown. Using functional proteomics screening, we found that KAP1 interacts with c‐Raf. Knocking out KAP1 decreased c‐Raf phosphorylation at serine 259 and increased its phosphorylation at serine 338, which activated MEK and ERK. We detected higher KAP1 expression in lung cancer tissues than in normal peri‐tumoral tissues. KAP1 knockdown arrested A549 lung cancer cells in the G0/G1 phase of the cell cycle and attenuated cell growth, metastasis, the epithelial‐mesenchymal transition, angiogenesis, stemness, and colony formation. Furthermore, knocking out KAP1 remarkably increased the susceptibility of A549 cells to the anti‐cancer drug 5‐Fluorouracil, which correlated with increasing ERK phosphorylation. In vivo xenograft experiments suggested that KAP1 deficiency significantly decreases the tumorigenicity of A549 cells. Taken together, our findings indicate that KAP1 acts as a key module in the c‐Raf‐interactome complex and regulates lung cancer development through the Raf‐MEK‐ERK pathway. Therefore, KAP1 may represent a potential diagnosis biomarker and new treatment target for lung cancer.
Perforator flap based on the third perforator of the profunda femoris artery (PFA)‐assisted closure of the free vertical posteromedial thigh (vPMT) flap donor site
Authors: Scaglioni Mario F. , Barth Andrè A. , Chen Yen‐Chou
Published: June 2018

Introduction

The primary closure of the vertical posteromedial thigh (vPMT) free flap donor site is very important to minimize donor site morbidity and maximize cosmetic appearance. However, sometimes due to the dimension of the defect, a vPMT flap is wider than the 8–10 cm requirement. The authors report their experience with the third perforator of the profunda femoris artery (PFA) during the vPMT free flap donor‐site closure.

Patients and Methods

Between January 2016 and December 2017, 5 patients underwent reconstruction of lower extremity (2 pts.) and head and neck (3 pts.) area with the free vPMT flaps. Attempts to close the vPMT free flap donor site directly failed due to the flaps' width (average: 11 cm) and pedicled perforator flaps based on the third perforator of the PFA at the distal thigh were harvested to close the defect primary without the use of a skin graft. The size of perforator flap based on 3rd perforator of PFA was on average 6 cm × 4 cm (ranged: 4–8 cm × 3–6 cm).

Results

In all patients, the third perforator of the PFA was identified and the perforator diameter was on average 2.0 mm (range, 1.8–2.2 mm). All perforators were musculocutaneous and single. The dimensions of the flaps were on average 6 cm × 4 cm (range: 4 to 8 cm × 3 to 6 cm). All flaps healed uneventfully without complications and the patients were satisfied with cosmetic and functional results at 6 months follow‐up.

Conclusion

The third perforator of the PFA may be an option to ensure primary closure of the PMT flap donor site, when a larger flap for reconstruction is needed with subsequent impossibility to achieve primary closure of the donor site.
Fitted modifications of Runge‐Kutta pairs of orders 6(5)
Authors: Medvedev Maxim A. , Simos T. E. , Tsitouras Ch.
Published: June 2018

Runge‐Kutta (RK) pairs sharing orders 6 and 5 are widely used for solving initial value problems. Thus, we consider the dispersion from a standard cyclic orbit as a function of frequency v and present a modification of a particular pair. Namely, we derive a zero‐dissipative pair with vanished phase lag and its first derivative. This modified pair outperforms the other Runge‐Kutta 6(5) pairs as illustrated with various numerical tests in oscillatory problems.
Structure of a new usnic acid derivative from a deacylating Mannich reaction: NMR studies supported by theoretical calculations of chemical shifts
Authors: Nguyen Huong Giang Thi , Nguyen Vinh Ngoc , Kamounah Fadhil S. , Hansen Poul Erik
Published: June 2018

In a conventional Mannich reaction using piperidine, hydroxypiperidines, morpholine, and N‐methylpiperazine with usnic acid, a deacetylation was observed resulting in a substitution at C‐2, a loss of an acetyl group, and a Mannich base with a stabilized enol. The enol has a hydrogen bond to the nitrogen of the secondary amine. The structure was investigated by nuclear magnetic resonance and deuterium isotope effects on 13C chemical shifts as well as with density functional theory calculations to study the changed hydrogen bond pattern. It was found that the hydrogen bond involving the OH‐9 group in chloroform forms a strong hydrogen bond than in usnic acid itself and that this hydrogen bond becomes even stronger in the more polar solvent, dimethylsulfoxide. Tautomerism was observed in the Mannich base as demonstrated by deuterium isotope effects on chemical shifts. The position of the tautomeric equilibrium depends on the solvent, and the position of the equilibrium governs the strength of the OH‐9…O═C hydrogen bond.
Catheterization for treating neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction in patients with multiple sclerosis: A systematic review. A report from the Neuro‐Urology Promotion Committee of the International Continence Society (ICS)
Authors: Tornic Jure , Sartori Andrea M. , Gajewski Jerzy B. , Cox Ashley , Schneider Marc P. , Youssef Nadim A. , Mordasini Livio , Chartier‐Kastler Emmanuel , Bachmann Lucas M. , Kessler Thomas M.
Published: June 2018

Aim

To systematically assess all available evidence on efficacy and safety of catheterization for treating neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Methods

This systematic review was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Studies were identified by electronic search of Embase, Medline, Scopus, Cochrane register (last search March 3, 2018) and by screening of reference lists and reviews.

Results

After screening 7′015 articles, we included four studies (one prospective and two retrospective cohort studies, one retrospective cross‐sectional study), in which a total of 445 patients were enrolled. No randomized controlled trial was available. Catheterization substantially increased quality of life, post void residual, and incontinence episodes in all included studies. Pooling of data for meta‐analysis was not possible due to the heterogeneity of reported outcomes. Adverse events were reported in two studies only. Risk of bias and confounding was intermediate.

Conclusions

Preliminary data suggests beneficial effects of catheterization on the urological outcome in patients with MS. However, although intermittent and indwelling catheterization is used frequently in daily clinical practice in the MS population, the evidence base is very limited and well‐designed, properly sampled, and powered studies are urgently needed.
A two‐phase Pareto local search heuristic for the bi‐objective pollution‐routing problem
Authors: Costa Luciano , Lust Thibaut , Kramer Raphael , Subramanian Anand
Published: June 2018

This article deals with the bi‐objective pollution‐routing problem (bPRP), a vehicle routing variant that arises in the context of green logistics. The two conflicting objectives considered are the minimization of the CO2 emissions and the costs related to driver's wages. A multi‐objective approach based on the two‐phase Pareto local search heuristic is employed to generate a good approximation of the Pareto front. During the first phase of the method, a first set of potentially efficient solutions is obtained by solving a series of weighted sum problems with an efficient heuristic originally developed to solve the single‐objective PRP. A dichotomous scheme is used to generate the different weight sets in an automatic way. In the second phase, the set is improved with an efficient Pareto local search (PLS) procedure. The use of PLS allows to limit the number of computational demanding weighted sum problems solved in the first phase, while keeping high‐quality results. Extensive computational experiments over existing benchmark instances show that the proposed approach leads to better results in less CPU time when compared to those obtained by state‐of‐the‐art methods.
Lifting and separation of robust cover inequalities
Authors: Joung Seulgi , Park Sungsoo
Published: June 2018

In this article we present a lifting algorithm and separation algorithms for robust cover inequalities of the binary robust knapsack problem using the Bertsimas and Sim model. First, we propose a polynomial time lifting algorithm for robust cover inequalities. Then the bounds on lifted coefficients are examined. We also propose three separation algorithms for robust cover inequalities and an exact separation algorithm for extended robust cover inequalities. Finally, the computational experiments exhibit the effect of proposed algorithms. The branch‐and‐cut algorithms with proposed lifting and separation algorithms are tested on the robust bandwidth packing problem and the robust knapsack problem.
A branch‐and‐bound algorithm for the time‐dependent travelling salesman problem
Authors: Arigliano Anna , Calogiuri Tobia , Ghiani Gianpaolo , Guerriero Emanuela
Published: June 2018

Given a graph whose arc traversal times vary over time, the Time‐Dependent Travelling Salesman Problem consists of finding a Hamiltonian tour of least total duration. In this paper we exploit some properties of the problem and develop a branch‐and‐bound algorithm which outperforms the state‐of‐the‐art branch‐and‐cut procedure by Cordeau et al. [5].
Strategies for conducting health research with Latinos during times of political incivility
Authors: Sage Rayna , Benavides‐Vaello Sandra , Flores Erin , LaValley Sydnie , Martyak Patrick
Published: June 2018

Aim

The current US political climate towards immigrants introduces new challenges for researchers already struggling to recruit and retain Latino participants in health research. The purpose of this work is to illuminate how current political incivility further deters participation by Latinos in research and present strategies to overcome these challenges.

Design/Methods

In this discursive piece, we describe how political incivility serves as a proxy for discrimination, discusses the impact of political incivility on health and health outcomes and explores existing knowledge of recruitment and retention strategies in the light of a current, adversely impacted health study with Latinos during the 2016 election season.

Results

Future work should consider the critical contextual factors (including political incivility) faced by Latinos in the US, while continuing to engage in established research strategies such as increasing trust, developing strong community presence, reducing risks (real and perceived) and being thoughtful in research design and implementation.
Trends in prescription drug use during pregnancy and postpartum in Norway, 2005 to 2015
Authors: Engeland Anders , Bjørge Tone , Klungsøyr Kari , Hjellvik Vidar , Skurtveit Svetlana , Furu Kari
Published: June 2018

Purpose

To explore trends in use of maternal medication 3 months prior to, during and 3 months after pregnancy.

Methods

Data on births from the Medical Birth Registry of Norway were linked to the Norwegian Prescription Database, identifying women's use of medications around pregnancy. All women giving birth in Norway during 2005 to 2015 (638 532 singleton births to 414 567 women) were included. Proportions of pregnant women using different medications in association with pregnancy, and annual relative change in medication use during 2005 to 2015, were calculated.

Results

In Norway, 60% of pregnant women used prescription medications during pregnancy (2005‐15), increasing from 57% in 2005 to 62% in 2015. The annual relative increase was 0.9% (95% CI: 0.8‐1.0). In the first trimester, approximately 17% of the women used medications regarded as potentially teratogenic during 2005 to 2015, increasing from 15% to 19%. Overall, this proportion was higher in the first than in the second (8.9%) and third (8.0%) trimesters, and higher than in the 3 months after pregnancy (14%). The annual relative increase of medications regarded as potentially teratogenic in the first trimester was 2.5% (95% CI: 2.3‐2.7).

Conclusions

The proportion of women using potentially teratogenic medications in the first trimester of pregnancy have increased during the last decade. Clinicians need to be aware of the possibility of pregnancy when prescribing potentially teratogenic medication to women of fertile age and focus this in the consultations. The increasing trends call for the need of routine surveillance of adverse birth outcomes linked to medication use in pregnancy.
A Highly Effective, Stable Oxygen Evolution Catalyst Derived from Transition Metal Selenides and Phosphides
Authors: Bose Ranjith , Jothi Vasanth Rajendiran , Velusamy Dhinesh Babu , Arunkumar Paulraj , Yi Sung Chul
Published: June 2018

Recently, transition metal chalcogenides and phosphides have been increasingly reported as efficient and stable oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalysts in alkaline medium, despite the fact that they are thermodynamically unstable under highly oxidative potentials. Here the active forms of these materials are elucidated by synthesizing a hybrid catalyst, which has a metal chalcogenide in the form of CoSe2 and metal phosphide in the form of CoP—CoSe2|CoP. Both CoSe2 and CoP in the as‐prepared catalyst are completely transformed into their respective oxyhydroxides and hydroxides, which are, in fact, the true OER‐active species in alkaline medium and not the selenide and phosphide themselves. The derived oxides from the hybrid catalyst deliver an excellent OER activity by reaching a current density of 10 mA cm−2 at a low overpotential of 240 mV (vs reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE)) and a Tafel slope of 46.6 mV dec−1. The stability of the derived oxyhydroxide/hydroxide catalyst shows no appreciable deactivation during 120 h of continuous electrolysis, displaying an extraordinary operational stability.