bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La Grande Noirceur canadienne-française dans l’historiographie et la mémoire québécoises
Authors: Meunier E.-Martin
Published: January 2016

Plus qu’une période historique bien définie (des années 1936 aux années 1950), la Grande Noirceur représente une époque repoussoir. Elle est un mythe constitutif du grand récit moderne québécois. Elle serait par ailleurs une modalité de gestion du passé, qui cherche à prendre en compte le legs dit autoritaire d’une période historique. Ses représentations mettent en scène une « mythistoire » qui, tout en mimant l’histoire savante, propose un récit dominant reproduit de génération en génération. Cet article examine à la fois le discours qui a élaboré et propagé l’idée de la Grande Noirceur, et celui qui a cherché à remettre en question sa véracité et sa portée historique. Son but n’est pas tant d’évaluer le degré de noirceur de la période précédant la Révolution tranquille, que de décrire les jalons de la construction sociohistorique de la rupture des années 1960 et de la déconstruction, plus récente, de ce récit encombré de mythologies de toutes sortes.
Les années 68 au Québec
Authors: Warren Jean-Philippe
Published: January 2016

Le présent article compare les révoltes étudiantes qui, dans les années 68, secouèrent la France et le Québec. Il ne s’agit pas simplement ici de juxtaposer des faits, mais de dégager aussi des points de contact par-delà toute la distance qui sépare ces deux sociétés. Rompant avec les études plus classiques qui se bornent à évaluer la part d’influence que la France a eue sur l’orientation des groupes étudiants québécois, cette recherche pousse plus loin l’analyse et cherche à fonder un modèle interprétatif qui, empruntant principalement aux travaux français, vise à enrichir la compréhension des facteurs ayant nourri l’activisme politique à la fin des années 1960 de part et d’autre de l’océan.
L’enjeu linguistique au Québec
Authors: Martel Marcel , Pâquet Martin
Published: January 2016

La question du français comme langue d’usage public au Québec fait l’objet de tensions et de conflits depuis de nombreuses décennies. Réalité historique, l’enjeu linguistique ré-émerge de manière spectaculaire, parfois violente, à compter des années 1960, en raison de l’activisme citoyen. Devant ces tensions, l’État du Québec légifère pour promouvoir le français dans l’espace public. Cet article propose une analyse synthétique de l’enjeu linguistique au Québec. Il place l’enjeu linguistique dans une perspective politique de manière à identifier les causes de la mobilisation citoyenne autour de la question linguistique et les stratégies de l’État québécois pour gérer ce débat social.
Local Anesthesia With Blunt Sub-Tenon's Cannula Versus Sharp Retrobulbar Needle for Vitreoretinal Surgery: A Retrospective, Comparative Study
Authors: Reichstein David A. , Warren Clinton C. , Han Dennis P. , Wirostko William J.
Published: January 2016

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of a blunt sub-Tenon's cannula for local anesthesia before vitreoretinal surgery compared to a sharp retrobulbar needle.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Retrospective, comparative study of all patients undergoing vitreoretinal surgery at the Medical College of Wisconsin between August 2009 and November 2013. Institutional review board approval was obtained.

RESULTS:

Of 940 surgeries performed with a sub-Tenon's cannula, 99% (938 of 940) were completed. Of the 771 surgeries performed with a sharp retrobulbar needle, 99% (770 of 771) were completed. Factors associated with use of a sharp retrobulbar needle over sub-Tenon's cannula were presence of prior scleral buckle (
P
< .01) and inclusion of scleral buckle placement in the procedure (
P
< .01). No case of globe perforation, severe retrobulbar hemorrhage, or severe conjunctival chemosis was observed in either group.

CONCLUSION:

Blunt sub-Tenon's cannula appears as effective and safe as a sharp retrobulbar needle for local anesthesia during vitreoretinal surgery. Vitreoretinal surgeons may wish to consider a blunt sub-Tenon's cannula for local surgical anesthesia.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2016;47:55–59.]
Bilateral Spontaneous Hyphema, Vitreous Hemorrhage, and Choroidal Detachment With Concurrent Dabigatran Etexilate Therapy
Authors: Wang Kevin , Ehlers Justis P.
Published: January 2016

A 79-year-old woman was referred for rapid onset of painless bilateral vision loss. Anterior segment exams revealed bilateral spontaneous hyphema and fibrin accumulation. Observation of the posterior chamber by B-scan ultrasound showed vitreous hemorrhage and choroidal detachment bilaterally. No evidence of additional intraocular inflammation was present. Laboratory work-up for hematologic abnormalities was unremarkable. These hemorrhagic events were suspected to be a complication from taking the novel anticoagulant, dabigatran etexilate (Pradaxa; Boehringer, Ingelheim, Germany). She initially underwent non-surgical therapy, which included immediate cessation of dabigatran, and administration of topical and systemic steroids. The lack of response to medical therapy in the left eye led to surgical treatment of vitreous and persistent subcapsular hemorrhage via pars planar vitrectomy with capsulectomy.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2016;47:78–80.]
Geostatistical Analysis for the Study of Relationships between the Emotional Responses of Urban Walkers to Urban Spaces
Authors: Hijazi Ihab Hamzi , Koenig Reinhard , Schneider Sven , Li Xin , Bielik Martin , Schmit Gerhard Norbert Johannes , Donath Dirk
Published: January 2016

The described study aims to find correlations between urban spatial configurations and human emotions. To this end, the authors measured people's emotions while they walk along a path in an urban area using an instrument that measures skin conductance and skin temperature. The corresponding locations of the test persons were measured recorded by using a GPS-tracker (n=13). The results are interpreted and categorized as measures for positive and negative emotional arousal. To evaluate the technical and methodological process. The test results offer initial evidence that certain spaces or spatial sequences do cause positive or negative emotional arousal while others are relatively neutral. To achieve the goal of the study, the outcome was used as a basis for the study of testing correlations between people's emotional responses and urban spatial configurations represented by Isovist properties of the urban form. By using their model the authors can explain negative emotional arousal for certain places, but they couldn't find a model to predict emotional responses for individual spatial configurations.
Electrical Properties of Graphene Oxide Layers Prepared by Material Inkjet Printing
Authors: Pospisil Jan , Schmiedova Veronika , Zmeskal Oldrich , Vretenar Viliam , Kotrusz Peter
Published: January 2016

The paper deals with the study of optical and electrical properties of inkjet-printed graphene oxide (GO) layers, which can be used e.g. for the preparation of various types of electronic devices. To ensure stable inkjet printing conditions of GO solution, mixture was thoroughly stirred for 1 h at room temperature or sonicated in the bath for 30 min. The thicknesses of prepared layers were determined by spectroscopic ellipsometry and profilometry. An electrical conductivity of GO was increased by the multistep reduction (due to annealing) – the conductivity was changed by these processes about seven orders of magnitude (GO is an isolator and reduced GO is a conductor). For electrical and dielectric measurements, samples with GO and mixture of GO with PEDOT were prepared. All current-voltage characteristics have a diode character. From AC measurements the bulk electrical conductivity and geometric capacity of prepared layers were determined.
Modelling and Analysis of Elastic and Thermal Deformations of a Hydrodynamic Radial Journal Bearing
Authors: Linjamaa Aki , Lehtovaara Arto , Kallio Marke , Söchting Sven
Published: January 2016

Journal bearings are widely used in heavy industry and in internal combustion engine applications. There is a need to increase the power density of various machine parts which leads to increased bearing loads and reduced lubrication film thicknesses. This type of development may increase deformations on the bearing surfaces which need to be considered in the bearing design process.The main purpose of this work was to develop a parameterized calculation model for hydrodynamic radial journal bearings which takes into account elastic and thermal deformations of the bearing surfaces. Hydrodynamic calculations were based on the numerical solving of the Reynolds equation by assuming rigid surfaces. Elastic and thermal deformations of the bearing and shaft surfaces were calculated by using the finite element method. It is concluded that elastic and thermal deformations are partly canceling each other out at the loaded side of the bearing and depending on the sliding speed and the external normal force either one of them could be more significant.
New Methodology for the Antifungal Testing of Surfactant-Free Silver Metal Nanoparticles for Applications in Green Housing
Authors: Küünal Siim , Kutti Sander , Rauwel Protima , Wragg David , Hussainova Irina , Rauwel Erwan
Published: January 2016

This work presents a method that enables the cheap production of surfactant-free stable metal nanoparticles in air. The silver nanoparticles are good candidates for new applications in green housing. Recently, we demonstrated usage of air-stable silver MNPs as biocidal coatings instead of chemical agents for protection of straw bales used in a green housing construction. Application of the silver nanoparticles as antifungal agents needs a method that does not neutralize their biocidal properties as a result of the testing method. In this study, we discuss the usual methods that are used for the antibacterial property testing and the development of a method that allows demonstrating the antifungal properties of metal nanoparticles.
Characterization of Nanoclay Modified Polycarbonate Blend with Secondary Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene Terpolymer
Authors: Merijs Meri Remo , Zicans Janis , Ivanova Tatjana , Berzina Rita , Saldabola Ruta , Bockovs Ivans
Published: January 2016

Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) terpolymer is one of the major plastics in IT equipment waste stream. In the current research secondary ABS (s-ABS) is blended with polycarbonate (PC) by forming one of the most popular thermoplastics engineering system. The effect of organically modified montmorillonite clay (OMMT) on the tensile properties and thermal stability of PC+10wt.%s-ABS blend is investigated. Increase in stiffness, strength and thermal stability is observed along with rising OMMT content. Highest increments of the aforementioned properties are observed within the OMMT range of 1-1,5 wt.%.
Effect of WC Grain Size and Content on Erosive Wear of Manual Arc Welded Hardfacings with Low-Carbon Ferritic-Pearlitic Steel or Stainless Steel Matrix
Authors: Katinas Egidijus , Antonov Maksim , Jankauskas Vytenis , Skirkus Remigijus
Published: January 2016

The erosive wear resistance of manual arc welded hardfacings with low-carbon or stainless steel matrix, varied WC grain size (0.23-0.61 mm) and varied WC content (max. 40 wt. %) was studied. Electrodes were produced by JSC “Anykščių varis“ company (Lithuania). Testing was performed according to GOST 23.201-78 standard using the Centrifugal Accelerator of Kleis (CAK). Test parameters were as following: room temperature; silica sand with particles size 0-0.6 mm; particle impact velocity – 10, 30, 50 and 80 ms-1; impact angles – 30° and 90°.It was found that there is only minor (usually not more than 2 times) effect of WC grain size and content on erosive wear of studied hardfacings. There is strong effect of velocity on wear rate. The graph showing the effect of abrasive particle‘s kinetic energy on wear rate is provided. It was found that the wear rate increases 2.8 times faster than kinetic energy of abrasive particles. The wear resistance of coatings could be improved by addition of WC when hardfacing is tested with impact angle of 30°. However, for impact angle of 90° the addition of WC into hardfacing has no effect or is even detrimental (leading to the increase in wear rate). The hardfacings with WC grain size in the range from 0.14 to 0.27 mm have the lowest wear rates during testing with impact angle of 30°. A discussion of the wear mechanisms for the hardfacings is provided, based on data and observations obtained by using scanning electron microscopy.
Potential Controlled Tribological Behavior of Water-Based Ionic Liquids
Authors: Amann Tobias , Dold Christian , Kailer Andreas
Published: January 2016

Increase of energy efficiency, reliability and durability of technical systems in combination with resource conservation using environmentally friendly water-based lubricants would be an overarching goal in all tribological applications. According to this aim the objective of this work is to investigate and identify new water-based lubricants containing ionic liquids (ILs) to reduce friction and wear. Therefore the tribological behavior of different water-based ionic liquid mixtures, compared with a standard water based cooling lubricant emulsion, was studied using a ball-on-disk test. A three electrode setup was used to analyze the influence of different electric potentials. The results show that friction and wear can be improved by using ionic liquid. In addition, the tribological behavior can be strongly influenced by electric potentials. As tribological mechanism the attraction of cations and the formation of a triboactive layer is assumed, due to charging of the surface.
Anti-Wear TiC-Based Surface Layers Using Concentrated Solar Energy
Authors: Mourlas Athanasios , Psyllaki Pandora , Pantelis Dimitris
Published: January 2016

The present study aimed to investigate the exploitation of Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) for the in-situ production of anti-wear TiC-based surface layers onto steel substrates. For this purpose, “solar” experiments were carried out at the installations of Plataforma Solar de Almería (Spain). TiC powder was pre-deposited onto carbon steel substrates that have been subsequently exposed to concentrated solar irradiation for various dwell time values. The temperature field developed at the specimens’ surface during solar exposure was recorded in real-time by the aid of an optical pyrometer. Microscopic observations revealed the characteristic microstructure features of the hardfacing surface layers obtained and preliminary dry sliding tests performed in a pin-on-disc apparatus, allowed to estimate their machinability using conventional cutting tools.
HVPE Growth of GaN Layers on Cleaved β-Ga2O3 Substrates
Authors: Nikolaev V.I. , Pechnikov A.I. , Stepanov S.I. , Krymov V.M. , Maslov V.N. , Bougrov V.E. , Romanov A.E.
Published: January 2016

GaN epitaxial layers were successfully grown by hydride vapour phase epitaxy (HVPE) on β-Ga2O3 substrates produced by cleaving. The initial stages of GaN epitaxial growth on β-Ga2O3 were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and x-ray diffraction analysis (XRD). The nucleation and the transition from the nucleation layer to a continuous GaN film were studied. It was found that the growth starts with formation of small crystallites on the substrate surface. As the growth continues, crystallites transform into pyramidal islands which increase in size and merge together. It was found that the structural quality of the GaN layers rapidly improves with increasing thickness. The full width at half maximum of x-ray ω rocking curves for (0002) peak decreased from 1370 to 540 arcsec as the deposition time was increased from 30 to 120 sec. This corresponds to the variation of the nominal layer thickness from 250 nm to 1000 nm.
Effect of Substrate Heat Treatment on Wear Behavior of Fe- and Ni-Based Hardfacings
Authors: Katsich Christian , Polak Reinhard
Published: January 2016

In different fields of high abrasive processes, e.g. in agriculture and mining industry, components made of tempering steel are additionally protected with a wear resistant alloy on high loaded sections. An industrial standard process flow includes heat treatment of components after hardfacing process. However, the exact effect of heat treatment procedure on wear performance of hardfacings is still mostly unknown.The main aim of this study was to determine the influence of substrate heat treatment on iron and nickel based hardfacings under two and three-body conditions. Commonly used wear resistant tempered steel was used as substrate material. Heat treatment investigations were performed on two Fe-based tool steel alloys (M2 and FeVCrC) and a Ni-based alloy reinforced with WC/W2C (Ni-FTC) deposited by plasma transferred arc technology (PTA), respectively. After hardfacing a heat treatment optimized for tempered steel substrate was performed on hardfaced samples.Microstructure investigations were done by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and hardness measurements. Additionally wear behavior was estimated by dry-sand rubber-wheel test (three-body abrasion) and continuous impact abrasion test (two-body abrasion).Results showed significant influence of heat treatment, due to microstructural changes, on wear performance under 3-body conditions of Fe-based tool steels. This effect was not as pronounced in Ni-based alloy than in types of tool steel. Interestingly, in both M2 tool steel and Ni-based systems heat treatment led to decrease 2-body wear resistance. However, heat treated V-rich tool steel type showed good wear performance in continuous impact abrasion test. Composed wear map, based on this study, shows critical changes in general wear performance for investigated hardfacings.
Influence of Nitrocarburizing Process Parameters on the Development of Surface Roughness and Layer Formation
Authors: Badisch Ewald , Trausmuth Andreas , Rodríguez Ripoll Manel , Diem Alexander , Kunze Wolfgang , Glück Johann , Lingenhöle Klaus , Orth Peter
Published: January 2016

Nitriding of tools and engineering components is a well-established surface modification procedure in many industries to ensure operational efficiency. The focus of this work is laid on understanding the influence of nitriding processing technology on the resulting surface properties which strongly dominate its tribological performance. Therefore, nitriding layers based on salt bath and plasma procedure were realised using 31CrMoV9 substrate. The surface roughness before nitriding was set to a Ra value of ~0.16 μm which corresponds to at technically fine grinded surface. 3D measurements as well as SEM micrographs of the nitrided surfaces were compared to the original surface prior to the nitriding procedure. Additionally, cross-section microscopy and hardness depth profiles were done to describe nitriding layer structure and nitriding hardness depth (NHD). Results show a correlation of nitriding processing parameters with the resulting compound layer formation and nitriding hardening depth (NHD). An increase of surface roughness during nitriding can be correlated with the growth of ɛ-nitrides on top of the surface.
Formation of B6O Based Materials by Reactive Spark Plasma Sintering
Authors: Grabis J. , Rašmane Dz. , Šteins I. , Lubāne M.
Published: January 2016

Dense B6O based materials were prepared by reactive spark plasma sintering of B/B2O3, B/B2O3/ZrO2 B/ZrO2, B6O/ZrO2 powders and parameters of the materials were determined. The reactive plasma sintering ensured preparation of dense B6O materials at 1800 °C and pressure of 30 MPa. Additives of nanocrystalline ZrO2 to boron precursors led to formation of ZrB2-B6O composite with decreased amount of B6O. The crystallite size of the bulk materials was in the range of 18–40 nm but the size of unregular grains was in the range of 1.5–3.0 μm.
Design and Manufacturing of Variable Angle Tow Laminate
Authors: Haavajõe Anti , Mikola Madis , Pohlak Meelis
Published: January 2016

Variable angle tow (VAT) laminates have shown enhanced stiffness/strength performance compared to conventional straight fiber laminates. Employment of VAT allows utilizing variable stiffness design of composite structure, thus it widens the design possibilities. As a result, composite structure with improved mechanical characteristics can be manufactured. The main aims of the current study are to give an overview on methods and algorithms used for analysis and design of VAT laminates, and to develop technology and equipment for manufacturing laminate with improved structural performance. In order to improve the accuracy of the compaction process, a set of experiments were carried out using a simple testing device. For measuring the compaction force, a pneumatic cylinder, pressure regulator and digital manometer were used. The temperature of the consolidation area and the heat distribution were screened with the thermal camera. Infrared heater was used as a heating source. Material used in the experiment was carbon fiber reinforced polyamide.Findings show that in addition to the main parameters – the compaction force and temperature, there are many minor factors, such as the compaction wheel diameter, material and surface roughness of the compaction roller, the material and surface roughness of the mold and the pretension in the laminating tape and also the laminating speed, all influence the quality of the final product.Key words: Advanced Fiber Placement Technology, Automated Fiber Placement, Automated Tape Laying, Fiber Reinforced Composites, Laminates
Combined Magnetic Pulsed Compaction of Oxide Ceramic Powder Materials
Authors: Mironov Viktor , Indriksone Elina , Beljaeva Irina , Glushchenkov Vladimir , Korjakins Aleksandrs
Published: January 2016

The paper discusses the basic methods of combined magnetic pulse compaction of ceramic powder materials. One important direction is a method that combines axial compaction of the powder, carried out with the help of a hydraulic press, and magnetic pulse compaction (MPC). Experimental studies were carried out on materials such as Al203-Si02. The influence of compaction of specific energy on the compressibility of materials has been shown. It has been established that the combined compaction allows to increase the density of the material, to improve the uniformity of properties in the bulk of the product and to reduce shrinkage during sintering.
Spectroscopic Ellipsometry Analyses on Plasma Treatment of Aluminium Oxide Thin Film
Authors: Lertvanithphol Tossaporn , Rakreungdet W. , Eiamchai Pitak , Horprathum M. , Hom-On C. , Jaroenapibal P. , Limwichean S. , Nuntawong N. , Patthanasettakul V. , Chindaudom P.
Published: January 2016

Spectroscopic Ellipsometry (SE) was used to analyse the effect of plasma treatment on aluminium oxide thin films. The aluminium oxide thin films were fabricated by reactive DC magnetron sputtering at different operating pressures. The as-deposited thin films were plasma treated at different ambient Ar and O2 conditions. The prepared samples were investigated for physical microstructures with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and optical characteristics with ellipsometry. The ellipsometric spectra of the prepared samples were measured in the range of 250 to 1650 nm with the incidence angle of 70 degree. Based on the optical model with the Tauc-Lorentz function, the thickness and the refractive index of the films were determined and discussed. The results showed that the thickness and the refractive index of the aluminium oxide thin films were greatly affected after the plasma treatments. In comparison, the results of those prepared at different operating pressures were also discussed. The SE results were confirmed with those from SEM.
Fabrication of the New Y257 Bulk Superconductor by Melt Process
Authors: Kruaehong Thitipong , Sujinnapram Supphadate , Nilkamjon Tunyanop , Ratreng Sermsuk , Udomsamuthirun Pongkaew
Published: January 2016

The Y257 superconductor was prepared by the melt process. The critical temperature of the sample is lower than sample prepared by solid state reaction. The sample are composed of 60% of superconducting phase and 40% of non-superconducting phase. The superconducting phase was orthorhombic structure and Pmmm space group symmetry. The EDX mapping indicated Y, Ba, Cu and O elements intermittently distribute in the sample. The TEM measurements indicated the SAD pattern of the single crystal and the polycrystalline. The DTA measurements indicated that the onset temperature were initially observed at around 999.848°C and offset temperature at 1018.680°C. The sample show the thermal reaction with endothermic reaction.
Structural and Optical Properties of Nd3+ Doped Na2O-PbO-ZnO-Li2O-B2O3 Glasses System
Authors: Rajagukguk Juniastel , Hidayat Rahmat , Suprijadi  , Djamal Mitra , Ruangtaweep Y. , Horprathum Mati , Kaewkhao Jakrapong
Published: January 2016

The present paper reports the structural (XRD and FTIR spectra), physical (like density, molar volume, refractive index etc.), optical absorption and emission properties of Nd3+ doped sodium lead zinc lithium borate glass. The glasses with chemical formula (65-x)B2O3-15Na2O-10PbO-5ZnO-5Li2O-xNd2O3 (where x = 0, 0.05, 0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 and 4.0) have been prepared using the melt-quenching method. XRD characterization shows that the glasses are amorphous nature. The values of measured absorption transitions obtained ten transitions and the hypersensitive transition at 4I9/2 → 2G7/2+4G5/2. To excite photon from ground state to upper state, used two different wavelength spectra at 582 and 804 nm. The maximum emission intensity of the 4F3/2 → 4I11/2 transition obtained when Nd3+ ion content in the borate glass is 1.0 mol %. It is indicating that Nd3+ doped borate glass have self-quenching or concentration quenching.
Properties and Phase Shift Structure of (1-x)BT-(x)BNT Ceramics
Authors: Warangkanagool Chompoonuch
Published: January 2016

In the research, the properties of barium titanate - bismuth sodium titanate [(1-x)BaTiO3-(x)Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3: (1-x)BT-(x)BNT] ceramics prepared by conventional mixed oxide method with various molecular weight of BNT or x between 0.0 and 0.3 were investigated. The optimum condition for calcined powders of x = 0.0 was found at 900 °C for 2 h, and x = 0.1 - 0.3 were found at 850 °C for 2h. The calcined powders were pressed and sintered at 1000 – 1200 °C for 2h. The phase structure was examined by x-ray diffraction (XRD). The microstructure was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Density of sintered samples was measured by Archimedes method with distilled water as the fluid medium. It was found that, all various x of (1-x)BT-(x)BNT ceramics XRD patterns display the tetragonality increased with increasing sintering temperature. All the peaks shift to higher angles when increasing x value indicating the decrease of lattice parameter “a” and increase of lattice parameter “c”. The average grains size of (1-x)BT-(x)BNT ceramics was increased with increasing sintering temperature. The highest density was 5.53 g/cm3 and was obtained from the sample sintered at 1200 °C.
Synthesis and Characterization of Red Emitting Eu3+-Doped YBO3 Phosphor
Authors: Sowjanya G. , Basavapoornima Ch. , Rama Moorthy L. , Kaewkhao Jakrapong , Jayasankar C.K.
Published: January 2016

Red emitting new phosphor, YBO3 doped with Eu3+ ions, has been prepared by solid state reaction method. The excitation spectra were recorded by monitoring a red emission at 610 nm and observed very intense band in the lower wavelength region, 230 ~ 280 nm, which could be attributed due to the Eu3+-O2- charge transfer band (CTB) lying in the band gap region of the host matrix. In addition to the CTB, strong absorption lines in the excitation spectrum is located at 395 nm and 465 nm which corresponds to the 7F0 → 5L6 and 7F0 → 5D2 transitions of Eu3+ ions, respectively. The decay curves are found to be single exponential at lower concentrations and tends to be non-exponential at higher concentrations with shortening of lifetime (2.74 ms to 0.86 ms). The systematic investigation indicates that this Eu3+-doped YBO3 phosphor is an ideal candidate for solid state lighting applications.
Energy Distributions of 662 keV Multiply Compton-Scattered Photons in Copper
Authors: Prongsamrong Pruek , Siengsanoh Kittipong , Limkitjaroenporn P. , Kanchanakul P. , Kaewkhao J.
Published: January 2016

A scattered photons spectrum from Compton effect were observed by pulse-height distribution of a NaI(Tl) scintillation detector. This also results in extraction of intensity distribution of multiply scattered events originating from interactions of 662 keV photons with both targets of copper sizes. The observed pulse-height distributions are a combination of singly and multiply scattered events in same photopeak. To evaluate the contribution of multiply scattered events, the spectrum of singly scattered events used reconstructed analytically. The results show that the lowest multiply scattered events occur at scattering angle 90 degree.
Anticonvulsants: Pharmacotberapeutic Issues in the Critically Ill Patient
Authors: Dupuis Robert E. , Miranda-Massari Jorge
Published: January 2016

Critically ill patients often have or develop conditions that make them susceptible to seizures and epilepsy. Treatment frequently involves the use of anticonvulsants. In order to use these effectively, the critical care nurse must be aware of the indications and controversies surrounding their use, the pathophysiologic conditions that impact on the disposition, and appropriate dosing and monitoring of these agents in the critical care setting
Dysimmune Neurologic Disorders
Authors: Mascarella Jeanie Jewell , Hudson Diane Carol
Published: January 2016

This article reviews the clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and current therapy of four neurologic diseases currently believed to be autoimmune in etiology: myasthenia gravis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, multiple sclerosis, and Reye’s syndrome. Nursing care of these patients is very challenging and crucial to the survival and prevention of further complications. Nursing interventions for the potential problems faced by these individuals are described
The Immune System: Your Defensive Partner and Offensive Foe
Authors: Workman M. Linda
Published: January 2016

Immune function and inflammation are normal physiologic processes essential to health and well-being. However, overactivity of any inflammatory or immune responses can result in tissue-damaging reactions that threaten the functional integrity of tissues and organs. This article reviews the normal defense responses of inflammation and immune function as well as selected conditions resulting from offensive or hyperactive inflammatory and immune responses. The selected conditions include those seen more often in the acute and critical-care setting, such as tissue-damaging inflammation, drug allergy, autoimmunity, and transplant rejection
Nursing Challenges in the Care of Very Low Birth Weight Infants (<1,000 Grams)
Authors: Kenner Carole , Hetteberg Carol
Published: January 2016

It is not unusual for neonates to be born before the 24th week of gestation and weigh less than 1,000 g. These neonates are surviving to be transferred to a tertiary care center, and many are discharged eventually to home. When one considers that these infants arc only “half developed” by the standard 40-week gestational period, it is understandable that the challenges for nurses caring for them are enormous. In this article, the authors review gestational development and the critical care needs of this special neonatal population
Reducing Foley Catheter Device Days in an Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Reilly Laura , Sullivan Patty , Ninni Sharon , Fochesto Denise , Williams Karen , Fetherman Brandee
Published: January 2016

The prolonged use of indwelling urinary catheters can lead to many complications, the most prevalent being urinary tract infections. These hospital-acquired infections can increase hospital costs, length of stay, and mortality rates. Evidence-based guidelines for the prevention of urinary tract infections are compared and discussed. Minimizing indwelling urinary catheter use is well-recognized in the literature to reduce the risk of these infections. To decrease the incidence of catheter-associated urinary tract infections, the staff of a 22-bed, mixed medical, surgical, and trauma intensive care unit focused on reducing the number of foley catheter device days. A multidisciplinary team was convened to create an evidence-based plan. Staff nurses were engaged in the development and implementation of the plan. Criteria-based foley catheter guidelines, a decision-making algorithm, and a daily checklist were implemented that led to a significant reduction in foley catheter device days and a decrease in catheter-associated urinary tract infections.
Genomic Variations and Susceptibility to Sepsis
Authors: Papathanassoglou Elizabeth D. E. , Giannakopoulou Margarita D. , Bozas Evangelos
Published: January 2016

The considerable variability in septic patients’ outcomes, which exceeds our understanding of the pathophysiology of sepsis and defies our current prognostic tools, has prompted investigation in the genetic variations that may predispose individuals for increased susceptibility to sepsis and adverse outcomes. This article aims to critically review current evidence from genetic association studies regarding the role of genetic polymorphisms in sepsis. Findings regarding polymorphisms in intercellular messenger mediators (cytokines), membrane-bound inflammatory receptors, intracellular signaling cascades, heat shock proteins, coagulation/fibrinolysis pathways, apoptotic mechanisms, and neuroendocrine axes are presented and discussed. Study results are often discrepant, whereas many methodological limitations, in terms of both study design and genotyping methods, may render the results difficult to generalize. Nonetheless, a role for genomic variations in sepsis outcomes has emerged. A theoretical framework for incorporation of genetic variations into individualized care planning based on complexity theory is proposed, and future prospects of microarray technology and systems modelling are discussed briefly.
Dyspnea
Authors: Spector Nancy , Connolly Maria A. , Carlson Karen K.
Published: January 2016

Dyspnea is a common symptom in patients with acute and chronic critical illness as well as in patients receiving palliative care. While dyspnea can be found in a variety of clinical arenas and across many specialties, the mechanisms that cause dyspnea are similar. Although not often the cause for admission to critical care, it may complicate and extend length of stay. This article defines and describes dyspnea and its pathophysiology. Critical care nurses should strive to implement interventions supported by evidence whenever possible. An evidence-based plan of care for the assessment, planning, intervention, and evaluation of the patient with dyspnea is outlined, using levels of recommendation based on the strength of available evidence. Two case studies are presented to illustrate its application to clinical practice.
Stress-related Mucosal Disease in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Sesler Jefferson M.
Published: January 2016

Gastric ulcers have been known to develop in critically ill patients secondary to physiological stress since the 19th century. It is only relatively recently that stress ulcer prophylaxis has become an established routine practice in the intensive care unit. Numerous terms have been used to describe stress ulcers, but stress-related mucosal disease (SRMD) is commonly used. Significant morbidity and mortality in critically ill patients is caused by SRMD and related bleedings, but the incidence depends on the definition of bleeding. Pathophysiology of SRMD is multifactorial and involves a complex set of interactions that causes a breakdown of mucosal proactive defenses, leading to ulceration. Critically ill patients are at an increased risk for developing SRMD and subsequent bleeding secondary to several risk factors. To minimize stress-related mucosal bleeding, several regimens have been used. This article presents an update on the incidence, pathophysiology, risk factors, and prophylaxis of SRMD.
Neuromuscular Complications in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Johnson Karen L.
Published: January 2016

Critical illness polyneuromyopathy, a complication of critical illness, is a primary axonal degeneration of motor and sensory fibers that leads to skeletal muscle weakness. It significantly contributes to the unexplained difficulty in weaning from mechanical ventilation and to their prolonged rehabilitation and poor quality of life after discharge. This article will discuss the diagnosis of critical illness polyneuromyopathy, identify risk factors, review several pathomechanisms that have been proposed, and discuss the implications for practice.
Ventilator-associated Pneumonia Improvement Program
Authors: Murray Theresa , Goodyear-Bruch Caryl
Published: January 2016

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a significant clinical problem associated with increased intensive care unit and hospital length of stay and substantial increases in delivery cost and associated morbidity and mortality. With system changes and management of the environment of care, the incidence of VAP was reduced in seven of our intensive care units across the system. Steps necessary to reduce VAP were identified and put into place in all the intensive care units. Patient positioning, oral care, nutrition, and management of comfort drugs are a few of the processes addressed to reduce VAP. Standardization of these essential care practices can reduce the incidence of this nosocomial infection and its associated increases in the cost of care delivery and mortality.
Geropharmacology
Authors: Ferrario Catherine G.
Published: January 2016

Advanced practice nurses’ challenge in managing older adults’ medication regimens from an evidence base is difficult because older adults are vulnerable to medication errors and adverse drug reactions related to a number of factors. Predicting patients’ responses to drugs is compounded during critical illness, adding to the heterogeneity and unpredictability of drug effects that are prevalent premorbidly. In the first part of this 2-part continuing education series, sources of medication errors and older adults’ vulnerability are discussed, including normal changes of aging affecting pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, polypharmacy, self-medicating, patient-family noncompliance, and inappropriately prescribed medications. In the second part, drug classes and drugs posing particular problems for older adults and cautions for acute care and critical care nurses who manage the medications of older adults are highlighted.
An Online Dual-Certification Program in Advanced Practice Nursing and Nursing Education
Authors: Stahl Arleen M. , Lewandowski Margaret L. , Connolly Maria A.
Published: January 2016

Educating nurses for the healthcare delivery workforce is stymied as qualified applicants to nursing programs are being turned away. Although applications to baccalaureate programs have increased, between 41 683 and 147 000 undergraduate and graduate applicants were turned away from nursing education programs in 2005 due largely to shortages of nursing faculty. In this article, the evidence-based rationale for the development of a dual-certification program for the preparation of clinical nurse specialists and nurse educators is described. Because faculty shortages are nationwide, we developed the program to be delivered, in its entirety, online. Standardized data collection methods for evaluating student progress and their achievement of competencies expected of clinical nurse specialists and nurse educators are provided. The program may be a model for preparing clinically competent nurse educators who prefer practice settings to full-time faculty positions.
Challenges to Conducting Multicenter Clinical Research
Authors: Irving Sharon Y. , Curley Martha A.Q.
Published: January 2016

Nursing care provided to patients and their families should be based on strong scientific evidence. In the quantitative research paradigm, the highest level of evidence is derived from conclusive randomized controlled clinical trials. Multicenter clinical research allows the accrual of sufficient numbers of diverse participants in a shorter period of time and improves the generalizability of the study findings. Clinical research is inherently complex; the complexity exponentially increases when conducting multicenter clinical trials. Investigators are challenged to maintain the internal validity of the study and the sustained commitment and collaboration of numerous disciplines over the study period. This article presents 10 essential points to consider when conducting multicenter clinical research.
Challenges and Opportunities Associated With Studying Sleep in Critically Ill Adults
Authors: Redeker Nancy S.
Published: January 2016

Disturbances in sleep associated with sleep deprivation, disorders in circadian rhythms, and sleep-disordered breathing are common in critical care settings and may have a significant impact on physiologic, behavioral, and functional outcomes, as well as patient satisfaction and utilization of health-care resources. Despite growth in awareness of the potential importance of sleep in the critical setting over the past 30 years, many questions about the nature of sleep, the predictors and consequences of sleep disturbance, and the efficacy of sleep promotion interventions in critically ill patients remain unanswered. Most of the studies of sleep in critical care settings have used small, nonrandom samples and descriptive or explanatory designs; many have not considered multifactorial explanatory variables; and clinical trials are rare. These gaps in quantity and quality of research findings are barriers to the delivery of evidence-based sleep promotion interventions and may be partially explained by conceptual and methodological challenges associated primarily with the nature of sleep measurement and characteristics of critically ill patients and the critical care environment. This article will explore these concerns and propose strategies to deal with them. Research exemplars from the literature will be used to illustrate key points.
Continuous Measurement of Endotracheal Tube Cuff Pressure
Authors: Sole Mary Lou , Aragon Daleen , Bennett Melody , Johnson Randall L.
Published: January 2016

Continuous monitoring and download of endotracheal tube cuff pressure for a 12-hour period were required to collect data for an ongoing program of research related to airway management of the critically ill patient. On the basis of reports from the anesthesia literature, continuous monitoring of cuff pressure via a traditional pressure transducer and monitor was identified as the best method to collect data. Although continuous pressure monitoring of many physiologic variables is routine in critical care settings, application of the technology to measurement of endotracheal tube cuff pressure has not been reported outside the operating room. The research team conducted bench testing and pilot testing in human subjects to establish feasibility, accuracy, and safety of continuous cuff pressure monitoring. Monitoring was feasible with stringent procedures applied to ensure safety. A bias of 0.5 cm H2O between continuous and intermittent measures was obtained in both in vitro and in vivo testing.
Evidence-Based Approach to an Inpatient Tobacco Cessation Protocol
Authors: Ginn Mary Beth , Cox Geoff , Heath Janie
Published: January 2016

Tobacco use contributes to $53 to $73 billion per year in healthcare expenditures and causes nearly 440 000 deaths per year. Given the strong cause-effect relationship between smoking and poor health outcomes, it is critical that smokers are identified early and advised about smoking cessation. Furthermore, the Joint Commission now mandates that tobacco cessation advice be given to patients admitted with heart failure, pneumonia, and acute myocardial infarction. As such, an interdisciplinary group at an urban academic medical center developed and implemented a tobacco cessation protocol with the goal of identifying and targeting inpatient smokers through evidence-based education and counseling. The protocol focused on admission assessment, education, and provision of standing orders for medication treatment for nicotine withdrawal and/or tobacco cessation therapy during the inpatient encounter and referral for outpatient counseling at discharge.
Translation to Practice
Authors: Selig Patricia M. , Lewanowicz Walter
Published: January 2016

Creating a culture of inquiry in which nurses are engaged in the pursuit of the best evidence to support nursing practice ultimately improves patient care and clinical outcomes. So, how do we do that? Implementation of an evidence-based practice nurse internship program has proven to be a key ingredient for success in stimulating critical thinking and subsequent analysis of the evidence behind nursing practice. A pragmatic approach to developing and sustaining an evidence-based practice nurse internship program can be a helpful guide for those who are considering a similar proposition. The recruitment process, education, clinical projects, and lessons learned are detailed in this article as a resource to nursing colleagues in the spirit of professional growth.
Walking on Water and Other Lessons Learned as a Clinical Educator
Authors: McKinley Mary G.
Published: January 2016

The clinical educator role in acute and critical care is complex and challenging and in health care today it is often an essential role. This article focuses on lessons learned in implementing the role that may assist other nurses as they implement or develop the role.
Strategies for Success
Authors: Miga K. Cheli , Rauen Carol A. , Srsic-Stoehr Kathleen
Published: January 2016

Successful integration of a new clinical nurse specialist within an organization optimizes the safe, cost-effective implementation of evidence-based practice and research. This article provides strategies and information to support the clinical nurse specialist during his or her role transition, highlights opportunities and challenges to the role, and provides examples of orientation and performance tools that can assist in a successful orientation process.
Orientation Program for Hospital-Based Nurse Practitioners
Authors: Bahouth Mona N. , Esposito-Herr Mary Beth
Published: January 2016

The transition from student to practicing clinician is often a challenging and difficult period for many nurse practitioners. Newly graduated nurse practitioners commonly describe feelings of inadequacy in assuming clinical responsibilities, lack of support by team members, unclear expectations for the orientation period, and role isolation. This article describes the formal nurse practitioner orientation program implemented at the University of Maryland Medical Center, a large urban academic medical center, to facilitate the transition of new nurse practitioners into the workforce. This comprehensive program incorporates streamlined administrative activities, baseline didactic and simulation-based critical care education, ongoing and focused peer support, access to formalized resources, and individualized clinical preceptor programs. This formalized orientation program has proven to be one of the key variables to successful integration of nurse practitioners into our acute care clinical teams.