bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Hot Deformation Temperature on the Restoration Mechanisms and Texture in a High-Cr Ferritic Stainless Steel
Authors: Mehtonen Saara , Karjalainen L. Pentti , Porter David A.
Published: July 2013

The effect of hot deformation temperature on the deformed microstructures and evolution of microstructure and texture of a 21Cr Ti-Nb dual-stabilized ferritic stainless steel was studied using plane strain hot compression tests on a Gleeble 1500 thermomechanical simulator. The deformation was carried out at 550 - 950 °C with a strain of 0.5 at 1 s-1. The compression was followed by fast cooling to room temperature in order to study the deformed microstructures. Some specimens were heated from the deformation stage to either 750 or 950 °C and held for 0 or 30 s in order to study the nucleation process of recrystallization. The electron backscatter diffraction technique was used to analyze the resultant microstructures and textures. Lowering of the deformation temperature increased the rate of static recrystallization (SRX) and decreased the recrystallized grain size. After deformation at 550 and 600 °C and complete SRX, beneficial γ-fibre texture formed presumably as a result of nucleation at in-grain shear bands. SRX after deformation at 750 °C or above led to the formation of harmful α-fibre textures with weak γ-fibre.
Simulation of Active Shielding Gas Impact on Heat Distribution in the Weld Zone
Authors: Chinakhov Dmitry A. , Vorobyov A.V. , Tomchik A.A.
Published: July 2013

Controlling the processes, which take place during consumable-electrode shield-gas welding, is one of the main problems of the welding industry. The paper shows that under the certain conditions the electrode-metal drop and heat distribution in the weld area are influenced by the active shielding gas jet. The paper provides the results of modeling heat distribution in the weld area and active shielding gas outflow from the traditional and double-jet welding torch nozzles.
Effect of Thermal Treatment after Hot Rolling on the Microstructure of Fe-2.4wt.%Si
Authors: Li Guang Qiang , Zhou Bo Wen , Schneider Juergen , Kawalla Rudolf
Published: July 2013

The grain structure and intensities of the relevant magnetic texture of the hot band affect remarkable the resulting microstructure and texture in the cold rolled and annealed nonoriented electrical steel grades based on ferritic Fe-Si alloys. The coiling or annealing after finishing the hot rolling process is an important factor, which gives rise to different grain structure across the thickness. We describe in this paper the effect of annealing in the temperature range of 750 °C up to 850°C by a confocal laser scanning microscopy technology.
Physical Simulation of Thermomechanical Processing of Multiphase Mn-Al Steels with Retained Austenite
Authors: Grajcar Adam , Skrzypczyk Paweł , Kuziak Roman , Gołombek Klaudiusz
Published: July 2013

The thermomechanical processing of certain AHSS still represents a challenge due to the lack of complete data on their hot deformation behaviour. Therefore, the aim of this study was to provide data on the hot-working behaviour of four model steels of the type 0.17C-3Mn-1.5Al and 0.17C-5Mn-1.5Al with or without Nb microaddition. The paper presents the results of hot strip rolling simulated by multi-step compression tests using a Gleeble simulator. Analysis of microstructural features of steels with focusing on Mn and Nb contents was carried out using X-ray, LM (light microscopy) and SEM (scanning electron microscopy). It has been shown that the applied deformation schedule allows to develop very fine-grained transformation products of supercooled austenite and controlled cooling with isothermal holding at 400°C enables to retain from 13 to 18% of retained austenite with the blocky or lath-type morphology. Mn alloying in the amount of 3 to 5 wt.% does not affect hot deformation resistance contrary to Nb microaddition, which raises flow stress levels. Influences of Mn and Nb on the retained austenite content and its carbon content are discussed.
FEM-Based Analysis of Micro-Structure Parameters for Roll Forming on Aluminum Alloy Sheet
Authors: Hu Zhi Qing , Zhao Ji , Feng Zeng Ming
Published: July 2013

Micro-structured surfaces with drag reduction, desorption, and excellent optical performance are widely used in the field of automotive, aerospace, marine applications. Therefore, the manufacturing of the micro-structure on the metal surface is of high impotance. Although the processing methods for micro-patterning of surfaces have progressed in recent years, micro-structure processing is still not used on large metal surfaces. In this paper, a method of roll forming micro-structure on the plate surface is proposed. A simulation model for micro-structure roll forming (MRF) was presented by using three-dimensional finite element method (FEM). The strain and stress, and the displacements caused by micro-structure were analyzed. The results provide theoretical guidance for the design of different micro-structures and the sequence of their processing.
Designing a Novel DQ&P Process through Physical Simulation Studies
Authors: Somani Mahesh C. , Porter David A. , Karjalainen L. Pentti , Misra R.D.K.
Published: July 2013

This study presents the use of physical and laboratory rolling simulations for the development of a novel direct quenching and partitioning (DQ&P) process for the development of tough ductile ultra-high strength structural steels with yield strengths ~1100 MPa and reasonable ductility and toughness. Suitable compositions were designed based on high silicon and/or aluminium content. The DQ&P parameters were established with the aid of physical simulation on a Gleeble simulator. Two types of dilatation tests were carried out: with or without prior straining in the no-recrystallization regime to establish the influence of controlled deformation on subsequent transformation structures and properties. Based on dilatation results, simulated rolling trials were conducted on a laboratory rolling mill and the rolled samples were direct quenched in water to the desired quench stop temperatures followed by partitioning in a furnace held at this temperature. Detailed microstructural examination confirmed that the desired martensite-austenite microstructures were achieved. Besides high strengths, the ductility (including uniform elongation) and impact toughness were quite improved in comparison to that of a direct quenched carbon steel in the same strength class.
Multiple, Simultaneous, Martensitic Transformations: Implications on Transformation Texture Intensities
Authors: Bhadeshia Harshad K.D.H.
Published: July 2013

A Theory is Developed for Martensite Variants that have Different Start Temperatures but Existin the same Steel. Themethod Enables the Volume Fractions of each Kind Ofmartensite to be Followed Asa Function of the Steel Temperature. the Problemis Relevant to the Calculation of Detail in Transformationtexture when Phase Changes Occur under the Influence of External Stress. it should Allow for the Firsttime, the Estimation of both the Location of Crystallographic Poles on a Stereographic Projection, Andthe Diffraction Intensity Associated with that Location. it is Found that the Increment of Transformationas a Function of Undercooling is Identical for all Variants, once Simultaneous Transformation Begins.Any Variance in the Absolute Fractions is due to the Differences in the Martensite-Start Temperature.
Parallel Paths to Improve Heart Failure Outcomes: Evidence Matters
Authors: Albert Nancy M.
Published: July 2013

Gaps and disparities in delivery of heart failure education by nurses and performance in accomplishing self-care behaviors by patients with advanced heart failure may be factors in clinical decompensation and unplanned consumption of health care. Is nurse-led education effectively delivered before hospital discharge? Nurse leaders must understand the strength of nurses’ knowledge base related to self-care principles and important barriers to best practice. Nurses may not be comfortable teaching patients about dry weight, meal planning, heart failure medications, or progressive steps of activity and exercise. Further, clinical nurses may not have time to provide in-depth education to patients before discharge. Equally important, research is needed to learn about factors that enhance patients’ adherence to heart failure self-care behaviors, because adherence to recommendations of national, evidence-based, heart failure guidelines improves clinical outcomes. Thus, nurses and patients are on parallel paths related to setting the foundation for improved self-care adherence in advanced heart failure. Through research, we found that nurses were not adequately prepared as heart failure educators and that patients did not believe they were able to control heart failure. In 2 educational intervention studies that aimed to help patients understand that they could control fluid management and follow a strict daily fluid limit, patients had improved clinical outcomes. Thus, misperceptions about heart failure can be overcome with interventions that move beyond communicating “what” self-care behaviors are recommended. Research results reflect that evidence matters! Systems and processes are needed to support nurses’ knowledge, comfort, and frequency in delivering self-care education before discharge, increase the accuracy of patients’ beliefs about controlling heart failure, and enhance patients’ desire to adhere to guideline-recommended heart failure self-care behaviors. This article describes the development of the parallel paths of nurse and patient programs of research and explores translation of findings into practice and development of clinical translational research.
Sex and Mortality of Hospitalized Adults After Admission to an Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Lipes Jed , Mardini Louay , Jayaraman Dev
Published: July 2013

Background

After admission to intensive care, women have higher mortality rates than do men. The reasons for the greater mortality in women are not fully understood.

Objective

To determine if increased mortality in women was due to delays in the recognition of critical illness or to delays in timely admission to intensive care.

Methods

A total of 241 consecutive admissions to intensive care from medical and surgical units during a 12-month period were analyzed retrospectively. Patients’ demographics, illness severity, and delay between the time the patients would have fulfilled criteria for calling a medical emergency team and consultation with and admission to intensive care were analyzed.

Results

Delay from fulfillment of criteria for calling a medical emergency team and consultation with intensive care and from consultation to admission to intensive care did not differ between sexes. Despite similar delays in admission to intensive care, women had a higher 30-day mortality than did men (44.9% vs 30.5%; P = .02). The increased mortality was more pronounced in the medical patients (53% vs 34%; P = .02). Multivariate analysis of mortality data yielded a mortality odds ratio of 0.35 (95% CI, 0.16–0.74) for men, significantly different from values for women (P = .006).

Conclusion

After admission to intensive care from medical or surgical units, women had higher mortality rates than did men, and the difference was more pronounced in medical patients. The difference in mortality between sexes was not explained by delayed recognition of critical illness or delayed admission to intensive care.
Physiological Responses to Passive Exercise in Adults Receiving Mechanical Ventilation
Authors: Amidei Christina , Sole Mary Lou
Published: July 2013

Background

Critical illness may weaken muscles, with long-term consequences.

Objective

To assess physiological responses to an early standardized passive exercise protocol to prevent muscle weakness in adults receiving mechanical ventilation.

Methods

A quasi-experimental within-subjects repeated-measures design was used. Within 72 hours of intubation, 30 patients had 20 minutes of bilateral passive leg movement delivered by continuous-passive-motion machines at a standardized rate and flexion-extension. Heart rate, mean blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and cytokine levels were measured before, during, and after the intervention. The Behavioral Pain Scale was used to measure patients’ comfort. Repeated-measures analysis of variance was used to analyze the effect of the exercise on independent variables.

Results

Patients were mostly white men with a mean age of 56.5 years (SD, 16.9) with moderate mortality risk and illness severity. Heart rate, mean blood pressure, and oxygen saturation did not differ from baseline at any time measured. Pain scores were significantly reduced (F2.43,70.42 = 4.08; P = .02) 5 and 10 minutes after exercise started and remained reduced at the end of exercise and 1 hour later. Interleukin 6 levels were significantly reduced (F1.60,43.1 = 4.35; P = .03) at the end of exercise but not after the final rest period. Interleukin 10 levels did not differ significantly. Ratios of interleukin 6 to interleukin 10 decreased significantly (F1.61,43.38 = 3.42; P = .05) at the end of exercise and again after 60 minutes’ rest.

Conclusion

The exercise was well tolerated, and comfort improved during and after the intervention. Cytokine levels provided physiological rationale for benefits of early exercise.
A Cluster of Fulminant, Fatal Necrotizing Community-Associated Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Pneumonias
Authors: Sohoni Aparajita , Feeney Colin , Lambert Larry , McCabe Robert
Published: July 2013

Community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus is a frequent cause of skin and soft-tissue infections and is increasingly identified as a cause of pneumonia in immunocompetent patients. Panton-Valentine leukocidin, one of several leukocytotoxic peptides secreted by these cocci, is associated with increased virulence. A cluster of 3 unrelated patients with fatal pneumonia presumably caused by community-associated methicillin-resistant S aureus positive for Panton-Valentine leukocidin were treated in a 3-week period. Despite aggressive care and appropriate, timely administration of antibiotics, all 3 patients died. This article reviews the clinical and laboratory features suggestive of this lethal isolate, including unique findings on Gram stains of sputum.
Interventions for Learning Disabled Sex Offenders
Authors: Ashman Lorraine , Duggan Lorna
Published: July 2013

The aim of this Campbell systematic review is to assess the efficacy of interventions with learning disabled sex offenders.

Sex offending is of increasing public concern with calls for longer terms of imprisonment and closer supervision of such offenders in the community. Currently a variety of treatment approaches are used including medication and talking therapies, though little is known about their success rates.

The small group of sex offenders with learning disabilities pose a particular challenge as talking therapies need to be modified to account for the offender's limited understanding. We could find no randomised controlled trial evidence to guide us in the treatment of learning disabled sex offenders.

Synopsis

Sex offending is of increasing public concern with calls for longer terms of imprisonment and closer supervision of such offenders in the community. Currently a variety of treatment approaches are used including medication and talking therapies, though little is known about their success rates. The small group of sex offenders with learning disabilities pose a particular challenge as talking therapies need to be modified to account for the offender's limited understanding. We could find no randomised controlled trial evidence to guide us in the treatment of learning disabled sex offenders.

Background

The management of sex offenders is a major public concern. Behavioural and pharmacological interventions have been used for many years and more recently cognitive behavioural based interventions have become popular around the world. Programmes designed for the general population have been modified for those sex offenders with learning disability, to address their cognitive deficits. The efficacy of these modified programmes is unclear.

Objectives

To determine the efficacy of interventions with learning disabled sex offenders. Search strategy

The reviewers searched electronically EMBASE, PsycINFO, Medline, Cinahl, Cochrane Library, SPECTR, National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect Information and National Criminal Justice Reference Service and Biological Abstracts.

Selection criteria

All randomised controlled trials comparing an intervention for learning disabled sex offenders to any other, or no intervention.

Data collection & analysis

Data were independently extracted.

Main results

No randomised controlled trial was identified.

Reviewers’ conclusions

Using the methods described the reviewers found no randomised controlled trial evidence to guide the use of interventions for learning disabled sex offenders. Until the urgent need for randomised controlled trials is met, clinical practice will continue to be guided by either extrapolation of evidence from randomised controlled trials involving sex offenders without learning disability or non‐randomised trial evidence of interventions for the learning disabled sex offender.
The Effectiveness of Incarceration‐Based Drug Treatment on Criminal Behavior*
Authors: Mitchell Ojmarrh , Wilson David B. , MacKenzie Doris L. ,   Submitted to the Campbell Collaboration, Criminal Justice Review Group
Published: July 2013

This Campbell Review evaluates the effects of four different approaches to drug abuse treatment for incarcerated offenders in relation to criminal behaviour and relapse into drug abuse. It also examines what characterises the effective programmes.

The findings of this research review are based on a meta‐analysis of 66 independent assessments. These are part of 53 studies which include more than 165,000 offenders (one assessment included more than 95,000 offenders). 58 studies were carried out in the USA, three in Australia, three in Canada, one in Taiwan and one in the UK.

The treatment of incarcerated drug abusers can reduce recidivism by up to 20% . However, there are major differences in how the various types of treatment work, both with regard to avoiding relapse into crime and continued drug abuse. Therapeutic communities have a positive effect on both criminal behaviour and drug abuse. Counselling programmes only reduce recidivism, but do not appear to be equally effective for all types of offenders. Other types of treatment – narcotic maintenance programmes (e.g. methadone treatment) and boot camps – do not appear to reduce recidivism.

This research review emphasises the need for more insight into which specific parts of a treatment programme are the most important. It is the conclusion of this review that future research should be based on the application of the strictest requirements for the chosen assessment design.
Interventions Intended to Reduce Pregnancy‐Related Outcomes Among Adolescents
Authors: Scher Lauren S. , Maynard Rebecca A. , Stagner Matthew
Published: July 2013

This Campbell systematic review examines the effectiveness of teenage pregnancy prevention programs in promoting abstinence, encouraging the use of contraception and reducing the likelihood of pregnancy among teens.

A thorough literature search was conducted up to April 2006. The review summarises findings from 31 studies which included 37,000 youth conducted in the US or in developed countries with higher than average rates of unplanned teen pregnancy, such as Canada, England, New Zealand, and Australia.

This review finds no consistent evidence that the types of pregnancy prevention programs evaluated rigorously to date will alter in intended ways the sexual activity or pregnancy risks of youth. However, this overall pooling of studies mixes results of different program types serving different populations of adolescents.

This review highlights the relative dearth of evidence to judge the overall effectiveness of particular intervention strategies. For this reason, further research and evaluation is necessary, including studying programs that have not yet been evaluated rigorously and programs that have been replicated and are serving new populations of adolescents in different communities.
Formulation, development and evaluation of injectable formulation of Aspirin
Authors: Patel Rakesh P. , Patel Kaushal P. , Modi Kushal A. , Pathak Chirayu J.
Published: July 2013

The objective of this study was to develop and manufacture a stable parenteral formulation for Aspirin, a non steroidal anti-inflammatory agent. The solubility and stability of the drug was determined. Solubility studies suggested that Aspirin exhibited poor aqueous solubility but showed appreciable solubility in non-aqueous solvents. Based on the preformulation studies, a lyophilized parenteral formulation containing 25 mg/mL of Aspirin was prepared in a solvent system containing of 80% v/v water and 20% v/v polyethylene glycol-400 (PEG-400). Rubber closures, filter membranes, and liquid transfer tubing were selected on the basis of compatibility studies. The formulation was subjected to accelerated stability studies. After reconstitution with sterile water for injection, Aspirin injection was stable for a period of 8 hr at 2°C to 8°C. Accelerated stability studies suggested that the lyophilized product should be kept at controlled room temperature for longterm storage. The proposed non-aqueous solvent concentration used, are known to safe hence, toxicities/safety related issues may not raise. The proposed techniques would be economical, convenient and safe. Thus, the study opens the chances of preparing lyophilized formulation of poorly-water soluble drugs.
Giant Cell Angioblastoma in an Adult: A Unique Presentation
Authors: Crivelli-Ochsner Susanna , Bode-Lesniewska Beata , Nussbaumer-Ochsner Yvonne , Fuchs Bruno
Published: July 2013

Giant cell angioblastoma is a very rare, locally destructive vascular tumor of intermediate malignancy without metastatic potential. There are only a few cases reported in the literature exclusively in the soft tissue of children. For the first time, we report on an adult patient with a giant cell angioblastoma in the popliteal fossa. The therapy included tumor resection with favorable clinical, oncological and functional outcome. Due to its locally destructive nature, surgery remains the mainstay of treatment. Histologically, giant cell angioblastoma is comprised of nodular aggregates of histiocytoid cells arranged around bland angiomatous spaces. Because of insufficient available data in regard to the definition of the entity, diagnostic criteria and its biological potential, it is not included in the new World Health Organization classification of tumors of soft tissue and bone. The differential diagnosis includes plexiform fibrohistiocytic tumor, myofibroma and giant cell fibroblastoma.
Numerical Modeling of Initiation and Propagation of Corrosion in Hollow Submerged Marine Concrete Structures
Authors: Pergola A. Della , Lollini F. , Redaelli E. , Bertolini L.
Published: July 2013

When reinforced concrete structures exposed to marine environments have both water-saturated and aerated parts, for instance, submerged tunnels or parking areas, a macrocell can develop. The electrochemical potential and the corrosion rate of reinforcing steel in the saturated part may increase because of this phenomenon. The goal of this paper was to study the effects of macrocells during corrosion initiation and propagation through numerical simulations of a wall separating a dry environment from seawater. When steel bars are passive, the potential of rebars in saturated concrete is increased by the macrocell and steel depassivation is promoted. After corrosion initiation, steel corrosion rate is increased by several orders of magnitude and the macrocell promotes also the localization of corrosion. A sensitivity analysis was carried out to investigate the influence of the main parameters: the models showed that some electrochemical parameters, such as the cathodic Tafel slope of the steel polarization curve, have a strong influence on the results.
Electrochemical Investigation of the Corrosion Behavior of API 5L-X65 Carbon Steel in Carbon Dioxide Medium
Authors: Henriquez M. , Pébère N. , Ochoa N. , Viloria A.
Published: July 2013

The corrosion behavior of API 5L-X65 carbon steel in a carbon dioxide (CO2)-saturated solution was investigated by electrochemical measurements (polarization curves, Levich plots, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy) with a rotating disk electrode. Different experimental conditions such as hydrodynamics, immersion time, and temperature were considered. From the polarization curves, it was shown that both the anodic and cathodic current densities decreased as the electrode rotation speed, the immersion time, and the temperature increased. This behavior was in agreement with the impedance results obtained at the corrosion potential. It was shown that the corrosion processes were initially controlled by mass transport but they became under activation control for longer immersion times. Scanning electron microscopy was used to characterize the corrosion products. For short immersion times (2 h and 6 h), the corrosion products mainly deposited on the cathodic sites (pearlitic zones) of the carbon steel surface forming a heterogeneous layer, whereas they covered the whole electrode surface after longer periods (>15 h). At a microscale, localized corrosion, as a result of galvanic coupling between pearlite and ferrite, was also observed.
What is the best buffer for preservation of cells in vitro: a standardization for gill cells in order to use in the Comet Assay
Authors: Ghisi Nédia de Castilhos , Ramsdorf Wanessa Algarte , Cestari Marta Margarete
Published: July 2013

The Comet Assay is a rapid and sensitive method for detection of breaks in the DNA strand into individual cells, commonly used at ecotoxicology. At this time, the method has been refined, but not yet fully standardized and variations on protocol are common. When environmental reviews are performed, the large number of samples required and the conditions of handling during transportation of samples to the laboratory are frequent problems. Until now, however, no truly effective method for samples preservation for this test was described. Therefore, we tested three stock solutions: fetal bovine serum (FBS), phosphate buffered saline (PBS) e Tris. Gill cells of Rhamdia quelen contaminated with insecticide Fipronil were maintained in these solutions, for 0, 24 and 48 hours to perform Comet Assay. It was found that fetal bovine serum was the solution that best preserved the DNA integrity of gill cells, followed by Tris and finally by PBS. We concluded in this study that fetal bovine serum is the solution that best conserve the gill cells and genetic material of R. quelen for a time until 48 hours in the absence of light and at 4ºC.
Water toxicity assessment in the Suape estuarine complex (PE-Brazil)
Authors: Souza-Santos Lília Pereira , Araújo Rodolfo Jorge
Published: July 2013

The Suape estuarine complex (PE, Brazil) is located close to an industrial port complex of Suape which has been responsible for altering the geomorphologic and hydrological conditions of the area. As the industrial port of Suape represents a possible source of pollution through the use and transport of chemical substances, the present research aimed to evaluate if the surface water of the estuarine complex in Suape shows chronic toxicity based on the embryo larval development of the sea urchin Lytechinus variegatus. Six sampling points were established between the estuaries of the rivers Massangana and Tatuoca. Samples of surface water from the area were collected on May, August, October and December of 2007. Chronic toxicity was observed in the six points and it varied depending on the month. The highest level of toxicity was on October when it was detected at all six points. The results showed that the water of the river Massangana was the most probable source of pollution in the area studied during this period.
Avaliação da toxicidade crônica de piraclostrobin, epoxiconazol e sua mistura em Daphnia similis
Authors: Prestes Elizabeth Biagioni , Jonsson Claudio Martín , Castro Vera Lúcia S.S. , Paraíba Carolina Costa Mota
Published: July 2013

O presente trabalho avaliou o efeito toxicológico de formulações fungicidas à base de piraclostrobin e epoxiconazol, isoladamente e em formulação conjugada sobre Daphnia similis por 21 dias, através da determinação da Concentração de Efeito Não Observado (CENO) de cada uma das formulações. Em relação à mortalidade de D. similis, foram encontrados valores CENO de 0,098 μg L-1 para a formulação à base de piraclostrobin; 1,324 μg L-1 para a formulação à base de epoxiconazol e 0,341 μg L-1 para a formulação conjugada. Em relação à alteração na relação neonatos/adulto foram encontrados valores CENO de 0,579 μg L-1 para a formulação à base de piraclostrobin; 3,599 μg L-1 para a formulação à base de epoxiconazol e 0,623 μg L-1 para a formulação conjugada. Das três formulações utilizadas, o piraclostrobin isoladamente mostrou-se o mais tóxico para os organismos estudados.
Comparative Susceptibility of Freshwater Fish Species to Metals from Ultramafic Soils
Authors: Oliveira-Filho Eduardo Cyrino , Muniz Daphne Heloisa de Freitas , Freire Ingrid Souza , Aquino Fabiana de Gois , Andrade Leide Rovenia Miranda de
Published: July 2013

Soils derived from ultramafic rocks have a mineralogy rich in metals like Co, Cr, Fe and Ni, and the process of extracting these metals from soil generates highly metallic waste. When disposed near of water bodies these residues pose a risk on the aquatic environment. Two fish species are used in ecotoxicity tests worldwide: Danio rerio (zebrafish), an Asian species, and Oreochromis niloticus (tilapia), an African one. However, Hyphessobrycon eques (mato grosso), a native of South America and found in Brazilian rivers, is as yet little used in ecotoxicity tests. The aims of this study were to evaluate the acute toxicity of the metals Co, Cr, Fe and Ni to the fish D. rerio, O. niloticus and H. eques, and compare its susceptibility. Tests were conducted following the recommendations of the Brazilian Association for Technical Standardization (ABNT). Stock solutions were prepared with the analytical reagents CoCl2.6H2O; K2Cr2O7; FeCl3.6H2O e NiCl2.6H2O. The quantification of metals was carried out in the stock solutions by ICP-AES. The dilution water used was synthetic softwater pH 7.3Â±0.1, hardness 43 mg L-1; DO 95% and temperature 25Â±1Â°C. To perform static tests 10 fish from each species were exposed for 96 hours, in duplicate, to different concentrations of the metals tested. The measured 96-hr initial lethal concentrations LC(I)50 of metals Co, Cr, Fe and Ni, calculated by the Trimmed Spearman Karber method, were 35.7, 35.9, 5.6 and 15.0 mg L-1 for D. rerio, 79.8, 32.6, 8.8 and 49.7 mg L-1 for O. niloticus and 104.1, 23.7, 8.5 and 34.5 mg L-1 for H. eques, respectively. The data showed that D. rerio has greater susceptibility to the metals tested, which justifies its increased use as a test species, except concerning Cr, for which H. eques was the most sensitive species.
Effects on DNA and cell viability of treated water contaminated with Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii extract including cylindrospermopsin
Authors: Fonseca Ana Lúcia , Lankoff Anna , Azevedo Sandra M.F.O , Soares Raquel Moraes
Published: July 2013

It is well known that chlorine can oxidize cyanotoxins, thus increasing water potability. Considering that the first steps of conventional treatment do not remove the toxins, the aim of this study was to investigate the toxicity of treated water containing cylindrospermopsin after chlorine addiction. It was analyzed DNA damage and viability of HepG2 cells exposed to the following treatments: cylindrospermopsin (CYN) containing extract of Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii; this same extract added to treated water; non toxic C. raciborskii (all extracts at concentration of 0.1, 0.5 and 1 Î¼g of dry material mL-1), and treated water only. Cells were exposed for 24, 48 and 72 hours. A decrease in cell viability of HepG2 cells was observed after the treatment with toxic C. raciborskii extract (at 0.5 and 1 Î¼g mL-1 for all times of exposure) and the toxic extract with treated water at the two higher concentrations at 48 and 72 hours. Comet assays also revealed DNA damage in HepG2 cells under toxic C. raciborskii extract. Data indicated that chlorine can prevent damage to DNA and to cell viability in most of conditions. In conclusion, chlorine addiction in conventional water treatment has a potential to provide protection or reduce toxic effects of CYN.
Impact of a future H2-based road transportation sector on the composition and chemistry of the atmosphere – Part 2: Stratospheric ozone
Authors: Wang D. , Jia W. , Olsen S. C. , Wuebbles D. J. , Dubey M. K. , Rockett A. A.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. The prospective future adoption of molecular hydrogen (H2) to power the road transportation sector could greatly improve tropospheric air quality but also raises the question of whether the adoption would have adverse effects on the stratospheric ozone. The possibility of undesirable impacts must be fully evaluated to guide future policy decisions. Here we evaluate the possible impact of a future (2050) H2-based road transportation sector on stratospheric composition and chemistry, especially on the stratospheric ozone, with the MOZART (Model for OZone And Related chemical Tracers) model. Since future growth is highly uncertain, we evaluate the impact of two world evolution scenarios, one based on an IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) high-emitting scenario (A1FI) and the other on an IPCC low-emitting scenario (B1), as well as two technological options: H2 fuel cells and H2 internal combustion engines. We assume a H2 leakage rate of 2.5% and a complete market penetration of H2 vehicles in 2050. The model simulations show that a H2-based road transportation sector would reduce stratospheric ozone concentrations as a result of perturbed catalytic ozone destruction cycles. The magnitude of the impact depends on which growth scenario evolves and which H2 technology option is applied. For the evolution growth scenario, stratospheric ozone decreases more in the H2 fuel cell scenarios than in the H2 internal combustion engine scenarios because of the NOx emissions in the latter case. If the same technological option is applied, the impact is larger in the A1FI emission scenario. The largest impact, a 0.54% decrease in annual average global mean stratospheric column ozone, is found with a H2 fuel cell type road transportation sector in the A1FI scenario; whereas the smallest impact, a 0.04% increase in stratospheric ozone, is found with applications of H2 internal combustion engine vehicles in the B1 scenario. The impacts of the other two scenarios fall between the above two boundary scenarios. However, the magnitude of these changes is much smaller than the increases in 2050 stratospheric ozone projected, as stratospheric ozone is expected to recover due to the limits in ozone depleting substance emissions imposed in the Montreal Protocol.
High concentrations of biological aerosol particles and ice nuclei during and after rain
Authors: Huffman J. A. , Prenni A. J. , DeMott P. J. , Pöhlker C. , Mason R. H. , Robinson N. H. , Fröhlich-Nowoisky J. , Tobo Y. , Després V. R. , Garcia E. , Gochis D. J. , Harris E. , Müller-Germann I. , Ruzene C. , Schmer B. , Sinha B. , Day D. A. , Andreae M. O. , Jimenez J. L. , Gallagher M. , Kreidenweis S. M. , Bertram A. K. , Pöschl U.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. Bioaerosols are relevant for public health and may play an important role in the climate system, but their atmospheric abundance, properties, and sources are not well understood. Here we show that the concentration of airborne biological particles in a North American forest ecosystem increases significantly during rain and that bioparticles are closely correlated with atmospheric ice nuclei (IN). The greatest increase of bioparticles and IN occurred in the size range of 2–6 μm, which is characteristic for bacterial aggregates and fungal spores. By DNA analysis we found high diversities of airborne bacteria and fungi, including groups containing human and plant pathogens (mildew, smut and rust fungi, molds, Enterobacteriaceae, Pseudomonadaceae). In addition to detecting known bacterial and fungal IN (Pseudomonas sp., Fusarium sporotrichioides), we discovered two species of IN-active fungi that were not previously known as biological ice nucleators (Isaria farinosa and Acremonium implicatum). Our findings suggest that atmospheric bioaerosols, IN, and rainfall are more tightly coupled than previously assumed.
An examination of parameterizations for the CCN number concentration based on in situ measurements of aerosol activation properties in the North China Plain
Authors: Deng Z. Z. , Zhao C. S. , Ma N. , Ran L. , Zhou G. Q. , Lu D. R. , Zhou X. J.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. Precise quantification of the cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) number concentration is crucial for understanding aerosol indirect effects and characterizing these effects in models. An evaluation of various methods for CCN parameterization was carried out in this paper based on in situ measurements of aerosol activation properties within HaChi (Haze in China) project. Comparisons were made by closure studies between methods using CCN spectra, bulk activation ratios, cut-off diameters and size-resolved activation ratios. The estimation of CCN number concentrations by the method using aerosol size-resolved activation ratios, either averaged over a day or with diurnal variation, was found to be most satisfying and straightforward. This could be well expected since size-resolved activation ratios include information regarding the effects of size-resolved chemical compositions and mixing states on aerosol activation properties. The method using the averages of critical diameters, which were inferred from measured CCN number concentrations and particle number size distributions, also provided a good prediction of the CCN number concentration. Based on comparisons of all these methods in this paper, it was recommended that the CCN number concentration be predicted using particle number size distributions with inferred critical diameters or size-resolved activation ratios.
Spatial distribution of benthic foraminiferal stable isotopes and dinocyst assemblages in surface sediments of the Trondheimsfjord, central Norway
Authors: Milzer G. , Giraudeau J. , Faust J. , Knies J. , Eynaud F. , Rühlemann C.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. Instrumental records from the Norwegian Sea and the Trondheimsfjord show evidence that changes of bottom water temperature and salinity in the fjord are linked to the salinity and temperature variability of the North Atlantic Current (NAC). Changes in primary productivity and salinity in the surface and intermediate water masses in the Trondheimsfjord as well as the fjord sedimentary budget are mainly driven by changes in riverine input. In this study we use 59 surface sediment samples that are evenly distributed in the fjord to examine whether dinocyst assemblages and stable isotope ratios of benthic foraminifera reflect the present-day hydrology and can be used as palaeoceanographic proxies. In general, modern benthic δ18O and δ13C values decrease from the fjord entrance towards the fjord head with lowest values close to river inlets. This is essentially explained by gradients in the amounts of fresh water and terrigenous organic matter delivered from the hinterland. The distribution of benthic δ13C ratios across the fjord is controlled by the origin (terrigenous vs. marine) of organic matter, local topography-induced variability in organic matter flux at the water–sediment interface, and organic matter degradation. The dinocyst assemblages display the variations in hydrography with respect to the prevailing currents, the topography, and the freshwater and nutrient supply from rivers. The strength and depth of the pycnocline in the fjord strongly vary seasonally and thereby affect water mass characteristics as well as nutrient availability, temporally creating local conditions that explain the observed species distribution. Our results prove that dinocyst assemblages and benthic foraminiferal isotopes reliably mirror the complex fjord hydrology and can be used as proxies of Holocene climatic variability.
Drilling cores on the sea floor with the remote-controlled sea-floor drilling rig MeBo
Authors: Freudenthal T. , Wefer G.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. Sampling of the upper 50 to 200 m of the sea floor to address questions relating to marine mineral resources and gas hydrates, for geotechnical research in areas of planned offshore installations, to study slope stability, and to investigate past climate fluctuations, to name just a few examples, is becoming increasingly important both in shallow waters and in the deep sea. As a rule, the use of drilling ships for this kind of drilling is inefficient because before the first core can be taken a drill string has to be assembled extending from the ship to the sea floor. Furthermore, movement of the ship due to wave motion disturbs the drilling process and often results in poor core quality, especially in the upper layers of the sea floor. For these reasons, the MeBo drilling rig, which is lowered to the sea floor and operated remotely from the ship to drill up to 80 m into the sea floor, was developed at the MARUM Research Center for Marine Environmental Sciences at Bremen University. The complete system, comprising the drill rig, winch, control station, and the launch and recovery system, is transported in six containers and can be deployed worldwide from German and international research ships. It was the first remote-controlled deep sea drill rig that uses a wireline coring technique. Based on the experiences with the MeBo a rig is now being built that will be able to drill to a depth of 200 m.
Technical Note: On the use of the mushy-layer Rayleigh number for the interpretation of sea-ice-core data
Authors: Vancoppenolle M. , Notz D. , Vivier F. , Tison J. , Delille B. , Carnat G. , Zhou J. , Jardon F. , Griewank P. , Lourenço A. , Haskell T.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. We examine some practical aspects of using a mushy-layer Rayleigh number for the interpretation of sea-ice-core data. In principle, such analysis should allow one to determine convectively active regions within the ice core by identifying those regions in which the mush-Rayleigh number is super-critical. In practice, however, a quantitative analysis is complicated by uncertainties regarding the specific formulation of both the mush-Rayleigh number itself and of the sea-ice permeability that is crucial for quantifying the Rayleigh number. Additionally, brine loss from highly permeable sections of the ice core, in particular close to the ice–ocean interface, and typically weekly ice core sampling, limit the practical applicability of the Rayleigh number for ice-core interpretation. We here quantify these uncertainties, suggest a standard method for the computation of the Rayleigh number for sea ice and discuss possibilities and limitations of ice-core interpretation based on the Rayleigh number.
Central Vascular Catheters versus Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters in Nurse Anesthesia. A Perspective within the Greek Health System
Authors: Konstantinou Evangelos A. , Karampinis Dimitrios F. , Mitsos Aristotelis P. , Konstantinou Maria I. , Mariolis-Sapsakos Theodoros , Kapritsou Maria , Stafylarakis Emmanuil , Katsoulas Theodoros , Elefsiniotis Ioannis
Published: July 2013

Purpose

We present a study comparing the insertion of central vascular catheter (CVC) and peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) by an anesthesia nurse at 2 Greek University Hospitals.

Methods

Eighty patients, aged 20-80 years, were enrolled in the study. Patients were divided into 2 groups. In group A (41 patients), a CVC was inserted in the internal jugular vein. In group B (39 patients), a pressure-injectable PICC was inserted in the basilica vein.

Results

Correlations between the methods applied, the patients' characteristics, the procedures' characteristics and the overall satisfaction scores for each procedure were examined. The final results show that the patients of group B (PICC method) were more satisfied with the procedure than the patients of group A (CVC method), at the statistical significance level of a=0.01. Also, according to the results of the analysis, the PICC method offers significantly more comfort and relative satisfaction than the CVC method, at the statistical significance level of a=0.01. The satisfaction scores of “physicians” were statistically more significant, at a=0.01, for the patients of group A (classic CVCs) mainly because of the insufficient flow rate of the PICCs when compared with the CVCs and especially if one considers the fact that the physicians did not have any experience with the PICC method at all.

Conclusions

PICCs under ultrasound guidance constitute the solution of choice for patients and they definitely surpass the CVCs focusing mainly on the improvement of the quality of life and the satisfaction of patients.
External Jugular Vein Cross-Over as a New Technique for Percutaneous Central Venous Port Access in Case of Left Central Venous Occlusion
Authors: Marcy Pierre Yves , Hajjam Mostafa El , Lacout Alexis , Nöel Caroline , Simon Jean Jacques , Figl Andrea
Published: July 2013

Purpose

To report the cross-over venous catheter technique in case of left-sided central venous (internal jugular, subclavian and innominate veins) occlusion and right-sided central vein patency.

Methods

A 60-year-old right breast cancer patient presented with a local recurrence requiring chemotherapy. He presented with a left-sided catheter-related central venous occlusion and radiodermatitis of the right chest and neck. The nonsymptomatic side of insertion was defined as the patient's left side. Successful percutaneous left-to-right external jugular vein (EJV) cross-over access tips and tricks are reported. They include performing (a) the EJV access at the lower neck, (b) the 0.032 hydrophilic guidewire (GW) catheterization of the venous curves, (c) the GW anchor technique into the inferior vena cava, (d) the GW + Glidecath catheter stiffening technique and (e) the over-the-stiff wire implantable catheter push.

Results

The cross-over technique was successful by using real-time ultrasonography/X-ray monitoring and interventional radiology tools (hydrophilic 0.032 in. and stiff 0.0035 in. GW and “J-shaped” Glidecath catheter) and the five-step technique.

Conclusions

In case of left innominate vein occlusion and necessity of left neck venous access, percutaneous EJV access should be attempted under real-time ultrasound/X-ray monitoring when other standard (subclavian venous port and internal jugular vein) routes are no longer available.