bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Volume Tiering Method and SSD Cache Method in Tiered Storage System
Authors: HAYASHI SHINICHI , KOMODA NORIHISA
Published: June 2015

We evaluated the storage I/O response time with the volume tiering method and the SSD cache method on tiered storage having SSD and HDD. The simulation results show that the volume tiering method improves the storage performance with low I/O locality workload and small SSD capacity. The SSD cache method is effective with read‐intensive and high I/O locality workloads. Utilizing both methods simultaneously reduces the storage I/O response time by up to 20% with write‐intensive workloads and large SSD capacity compared to using the volume tiering method or the SSD cache method separately.
The prognostic value of arterial blood gas analysis in high‐risk acute heart failure patients: an analysis of the Korean Heart Failure (KorHF) registry
Authors: Park Jin Joo , Choi Dong‐Ju , Yoon Chang‐Hwan , Oh Il‐Young , Lee Ju Hyun , Ahn Soyeon , Yoo Byung‐Su , Kang Seok‐Min , Kim Jae‐Joong , Baek Sang‐Hong , Cho Myeong‐Chan , Jeon Eun‐Seok , Chae Shung Chull , Ryu Kyu‐Hyung , Oh Byung‐Hee ,   on behalf of the KorHF Registry
Published: June 2015

Aims

In acute heart failure (AHF) patients, pulmonary oedema and low tissue perfusion may lead to changes in the acid–base balance, which may be associated with worse outcomes.

Methods and results

In this prospective nationwide cohort study from 24 academic hospitals, arterial blood gas (ABG) was measured in 1982 AHF patients at hospital admission. Acidosis was defined as pH <7.36, and alkalosis as pH >7.44. Mortality was stratified according to ABG results. Overall, 19% had acidosis, 37% had normal pH, and 44% had alkalosis. The most common type of acidosis was the mixed type (42%) followed by metabolic acidosis (40%), and the most common type of alkalosis was respiratory alkalosis (58%). At 12 months' follow‐up 304 patients (15%) died. Patients with acidosis had higher mortality (acidosis 19.5%, neutral pH 13.7%, alkalosis 14.9%; P = 0.007). In the Cox proportional‐hazards regression model, acidosis was a significant predictor of mortality (hazard ratio 1.93; 95% confidence intervals 1.27–2.93) along with N‐terminal pro‐brain type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP), among others. In contrast, alkalosis was not associated with increased mortality. pH had an incremental prognostic value over NT‐proBNP (net reclassification improvement 30%; P < 0.001), and ABG analysis identified extra patients at increased risk for mortality among patients with an NT‐proBNP level less than the median (12‐month mortality 17.5% vs. 9.9%; P = 0.009).

Conclusion

In high‐risk AHF patients, the most common acid–base imbalance is respiratory alkalosis. Acidosis is observed in every fifth patient and is a significant predictor of mortality. pH provides an additional prognostic value and may be used to optimize risk stratification in high‐risk AHF patients.
4‐(Acetylthio)‐2,2‐dimethyl‐3‐oxobutyl and 4‐(tert‐Butyldisulfanyl)‐2,2‐dimethyl‐3‐oxobutyl as Protecting Groups for Nucleoside 5′‐Phosphoramidates Derived from L‐Alanine Methyl Ester
Authors: Sontakke Vyankat A. , Lönnberg Harri , Ora Mikko
Published: June 2015

Phosphoramidates 1 and 2 were synthesized by H‐phosphonate methodology and subsequent oxidative amination with L‐alanine methyl ester. The removal of the protecting groups at pH = 7.5 and 37 °C in the absence and presence of porcine liver esterase (PLE) or glutathione (GSH) was monitored by HPLC. The stability of phosphoramidate 1 was additionally studied at pH = 9 and 10. The reduction of the disulfide bond with glutathione from 2 triggers the removal of the protecting group by cyclization releasing quantitatively nucleoside 5′‐{N‐[(1S)‐2‐oxo‐2‐methoxy‐1‐methylethyl]phosphoramidate} (7) as the desired product. With 1, enzymatic deacetylation or acetyl migration from the sulfur atom to the adjacent hydrated oxo group followed by chemical cyclization produces 7. The S–S‐bond‐mediated dimerization (8) competes as a side reaction. Prolonged treatment, however, resulted in the conversion of the S–S dimer 8 into 7 that undergoes slow alanine methyl ester hydrolysis to form 10.
Functionalized Metalated Cavitands via Imidation and Late‐Stage Elaboration
Authors: Zhao Yanchuan , Swager Timothy M.
Published: June 2015

Efficient methods for the preparation of functionalized metallated cavitands are described. Functional groups can be either introduced by an imidation of metal‐oxo complexes or by a late‐stage elaboration of the imido ligands. By using diversified iminophosphorane (PPh3=NR) reagents, π‐conjugated pyrene, redox active ferrocene, and polymerizable norbornene moieties were successfully introduced. Furthermore, the iodo and alkynyl groups on the imido ligands are capable of undergoing efficient Sonogashira cross‐coupling and copper‐catalyzed azide alkyne cycloaddition reactions, thereby providing facile access to complex architectures containing metallated cavitands.
Prestimulus oscillatory alpha power and connectivity patterns predispose perceptual integration of an audio and a tactile stimulus
Authors: Leonardelli Elisa , Braun Christoph , Weisz Nathan , Lithari Chrysa , Occelli Valeria , Zampini Massimiliano
Published: June 2015

To efficiently perceive and respond to the external environment, our brain has to perceptually integrate or segregate stimuli of different modalities. The temporal relationship between the different sensory modalities is therefore essential for the formation of different multisensory percepts. In this magnetoencephalography study, we created a paradigm where an audio and a tactile stimulus were presented by an ambiguous temporal relationship so that perception of physically identical audiotactile stimuli could vary between integrated (emanating from the same source) and segregated. This bistable paradigm allowed us to compare identical bimodal stimuli that elicited different percepts, providing a possibility to directly infer multisensory interaction effects. Local differences in alpha power over bilateral inferior parietal lobules (IPLs) and superior parietal lobules (SPLs) preceded integrated versus segregated percepts of the two stimuli (audio and tactile). Furthermore, differences in long‐range cortical functional connectivity seeded in rIPL (region of maximum difference) revealed differential patterns that predisposed integrated or segregated percepts encompassing secondary areas of all different modalities and prefrontal cortex. We showed that the prestimulus brain states predispose the perception of the audiotactile stimulus both in a global and a local manner. Our findings are in line with a recent consistent body of findings on the importance of prestimulus brain states for perception of an upcoming stimulus. This new perspective on how stimuli originating from different modalities are integrated suggests a non‐modality specific network predisposing multisensory perception. Hum Brain Mapp 36:3486–3498, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Altered amygdalar resting‐state connectivity in depression is explained by both genes and environment
Authors: Córdova‐Palomera Aldo , Tornador Cristian , Falcón Carles , Bargalló Nuria , Nenadic Igor , Deco Gustavo , Fañanás Lourdes
Published: June 2015

Recent findings indicate that alterations of the amygdalar resting‐state fMRI connectivity play an important role in the etiology of depression. While both depression and resting‐state brain activity are shaped by genes and environment, the relative contribution of genetic and environmental factors mediating the relationship between amygdalar resting‐state connectivity and depression remain largely unexplored. Likewise, novel neuroimaging research indicates that different mathematical representations of resting‐state fMRI activity patterns are able to embed distinct information relevant to brain health and disease. The present study analyzed the influence of genes and environment on amygdalar resting‐state fMRI connectivity, in relation to depression risk. High‐resolution resting‐state fMRI scans were analyzed to estimate functional connectivity patterns in a sample of 48 twins (24 monozygotic pairs) informative for depressive psychopathology (6 concordant, 8 discordant and 10 healthy control pairs). A graph‐theoretical framework was employed to construct brain networks using two methods: (i) the conventional approach of filtered BOLD fMRI time‐series and (ii) analytic components of this fMRI activity. Results using both methods indicate that depression risk is increased by environmental factors altering amygdalar connectivity. When analyzing the analytic components of the BOLD fMRI time‐series, genetic factors altering the amygdala neural activity at rest show an important contribution to depression risk. Overall, these findings show that both genes and environment modify different patterns the amygdala resting‐state connectivity to increase depression risk. The genetic relationship between amygdalar connectivity and depression may be better elicited by examining analytic components of the brain resting‐state BOLD fMRI signals. Hum Brain Mapp 36:3761–3776, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Immunoregulatory functions and expression patterns of PE/PPE family members: Roles in pathogenicity and impact on anti‐tuberculosis vaccine and drug design
Authors: Ahmed Asma , Das Arghya , Mukhopadhyay Sangita
Published: June 2015

The Mycobacterium tuberculosis genome was sequenced more than 15 years ago. It revealed a lot of interesting information, one of which was that 10% of the total coding capacity of the M. tuberculosis genome is dedicated to the PE/PPE family. There is a gradual expansion of these proteins from nonpathogenic to pathogenic mycobacteria, and there is increasing evidence that PE/PPE proteins play important roles in mycobacterial pathogenesis. In this review, we discuss PE/PPE proteins, their close functional association with the ESX clusters, their immunomodulatory functions, and their important roles in mycobacterial virulence. In addition, we have attempted to review and compile information available in the literature detailing the expression patterns of PE/PPE family members in different mycobacterial species and also during infection. Our attempt has been to provide a succinct overview of this interesting family. © 2015 IUBMB Life, 67(6):414–427, 2015
Print‐Based Texts
Authors: Blasingame James
Published: June 2015

This column provides reviews of adolescent and adult literature and is a valuable resource for literature selection within and outside of the classroom.
Study of spin–phonon coupling in LiFe1 − xMnxPO4olivines
Authors: Hien Nguyen Thi Minh , Chung Joo Hee , Chen Xiang‐Bai , Kwon Woo Jun , Kim Chul Sung , Yang In‐Sang
Published: June 2015

LiFe1 − xMnxPO4 olivines are promising material for improved performance of Li‐ion batteries. Spin–phonon coupling of LiFe1 − xMnxPO4 (x = 0, 0.3, 0.5) olivines is studied through temperature‐dependent Raman spectroscopy. Among the observed phonon modes, the external mode at ~263 cm−1 is directly correlated with the motions of magnetic Fe2+/Mn2+ ions. This mode displays anomalous temperature‐dependent behavior near the Néel temperature, indicating a coupling of this mode with spin ordering. As Mn doping increases, the anomalous behavior becomes clearly weaker, indicating the spin–phonon coupling quickly decreases. Our analyses show that the quick decrease of spin–phonon coupling is due to decrease of the strength of spin–phonon coupling, but not change of spin‐ordering feature with Mn doping. Importantly, we suggest that the low electrochemical activity of LiMnPO4 is correlated with the weak spin–phonon coupling strength, but not with the weak ferromagnetic ground state. Our work would play an important role as a guide in improving the performances of future Li‐ion batteries. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Endoscopic endonasal surgery for benign fibro‐osseous lesions of the pediatric skull base
Authors: Stapleton Amanda L. , Tyler‐Kabara Elizabeth C. , Gardner Paul A. , Snyderman Carl H.
Published: June 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

To describe the presentation, treatment, and outcomes of benign fibro‐osseous tumors involving the skull base in a pediatric population.

Methods

Retrospective chart review from January 2002 to September 2013 of pediatric patients (ages 0–18 years) who underwent endoscopic endonasal surgery (EES) for benign fibro‐osseous tumors involving the skull base.

Results

Fourteen patients were identified with an age range of 2.7 to 17.9 years (mean, 12.5 years). Six juvenile ossifying fibromas, five benign fibro‐osseous lesions, two osteomas, and one fibrous dysplasia were treated. Ocular symptoms and nasal obstruction were the most common presenting symptoms in nine (64%) and six (43%) of patients, respectively; five (36%) presented with proptosis and four (29%) with diplopia. Two (14%) patients had cranial nerve VI palsy. Transsellar and transclival approaches were used in five (36%) of patients. Orbital and optic nerve decompressions were the most common components of the approaches performed in nine (64%) of the surgeries. Gross total resection (GTR) was achieved with single‐stage surgery in 10 (71%) patients; two additional patients underwent staged GTR. Two intraoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks occurred and were repaired endoscopically. There were no postoperative CSF leaks or infectious complications. Two patients had transient diplopia, and two had transient diabetes insipidus, all of which resolved. The mean follow‐up was 13.8 months. Two patients had a recurrence, and both required additional EES achieving GTR.

Conclusions

EES for benign fibro‐osseous tumors of the skull base is a safe and effective treatment for excision of these lesions in the pediatric population.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 125:2199–2203, 2015
Emergent Awake tracheostomy—The five‐year experience at an urban tertiary care center
Authors: Fang Christina H. , Friedman Remy , White Priscilla E. , Mady Leila J. , Kalyoussef Evelyne
Published: June 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

There are few studies that discuss the issues surrounding emergent awake tracheostomy. We aim to review the indications, anesthesia used, complications, and outcomes of patients undergoing urgent awake tracheostomy.

Study Design

Chart review.

Methods

Medical charts of patients who underwent an emergent awake tracheostomy at our institution‐affiliated tertiary care center over a 5‐year period from 2009 to 2014 were reviewed. Data were collected from inpatient, outpatient, and operative records.

Results

Sixty‐eight patients underwent emergent awake tracheostomy. Over half presented with hoarseness (n = 37, 54.4%) and/or stridor (n = 37, 54.4%). Acute upper airway obstruction secondary to malignancy was the most common indication and accounted for 58 cases (85.3%). Thirty‐nine (70.1%) of the 55 patients with squamous cell carcinoma presented with advanced disease (stage III or IV). Other indications included glottic or subglottic stenosis (4.4%), failure to intubate (2.9%), and other (7.4%). Local anesthesia was used alone in 35.3% of cases and in combination with conscious sedation in 64.7% of cases. Mild bleeding occurred postoperatively in five patients (7.4%). There were no other postoperative complications. Nineteen patients were lost to follow‐up. The mean follow‐up of 49 patients was 7.2 weeks, ranging from 2 to 261 weeks. Long‐term complications occurred in three patients and included tracheitis 7.4% and suprastomal granuloma 2.9%. Eleven patients (22%) were decannulated at a mean of 11.8 months following tracheostomy.

Conclusions

Emergent awake tracheostomy should be considered in patients with impeding airway obstruction and is a safe and effective method to secure an airway in these patients.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 125:2476–2479, 2015
Long‐term functional airway assessment after open airway surgery for laryngotracheal stenosis
Authors: Pullens Bas , Pijnenburg Marielle W. , Hoeve Hans J. , Baatenburg de Jong Rob J. , Buysse Corinne M. P. , Timmerman Marieke K. , van der Schroeff Marc P. , Joosten Koen F. M.
Published: June 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

The purpose of this study was to evaluate our patient‐reported and objective long‐term outcomes of patients treated for laryngotracheal stenosis.

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Methods

Sixty‐five patients were evaluated after a median follow‐up of 7 years after surgery. Follow‐up measurements consisted of pulmonary function testing, Bruce treadmill test, and Child Health Questionnaires (CHQ).

Results

Pulmonary function tests were available in 43 patients, and 30/43 had abnormal forced expiratory volume in 1 second/forced inspiratory volume in 1 second (FIV1), 25/43 had abnormal FIV1/maximum vital capacity, and 24/43 had abnormal peak expiratory flow. One‐third of patients had reduced exercise tolerance. CHQ revealed significant positive correlations with pulmonary function results and exercise tolerance. Multivariate analysis showed that glottic involvement of the stenosis and the presence of comorbidities at time of surgery are the only factors for poor long‐term functional outcome.

Conclusions

The majority of patients show deficits in pulmonary function and exercise tolerance related to lower scores of quality of life. Glottic involvement of the stenosis and the presence of comorbidities are the only significant factors for poor functional outcome. Long‐term multidisciplinary follow up is mandatory after surgery for laryngotracheal stenosis.

Level of Evidence

2B. Laryngoscope, 126:472–477, 2016
Beam Shaping Optics for Process Acceleration
Authors: Bischoff Christian , Jäger Erwin , Umhofer Udo
Published: June 2015

Within in the last years the average power of industrial pulsed laser systems is continuously increasing. However one can often not make efficient use of the available power, since the laser process limits the pulse energy which can be applied to the work piece. In particular for ultrashort pulsed laser (USP) processing the maximum pulse energy is further limited due to plasma shielding effects. For those reasons laser processing often is too slow and too expensive (when available laser power cannot fully be used), thus is an uneconomical solution even if process results are excellent. How to overcome such limits?
Miniaturized Precision Stages with Piezo‐based Inertia Drives
Authors: Arnold Steffen , Reiff Ellen‐Christine
Published: June 2015

There are a number of areas in automation technology where precise positioning is necessary. This particularly applies to laser technology. High‐precision beam steering and focusing is just as indispensable in ophthalmology as in super‐high resolution microscopy, interferometry or photonics where the objective is to align fibers precisely. At the same time, laser beam steering and focusing also requires the drive systems used to be dynamic, reliable, and compactly dimensioned, so that they can be easily integrated into applications. Now, small positioning systems based on piezo inertia drives offer possible new solutions. In miniaturized design, they offer a high resolution at theoretically unlimited travel ranges, are self‐locking and on top of that, they are also inexpensive.
Radial Welding of Polymer Parts under Closed Loop Process Control
Authors: Reinl Steffen
Published: June 2015

One of the key competences of Dilas Industrial Laser Systems is laser‐based plastics welding. The products for plastic welding range from 10 W output power up to 600 W and are suitable for this application because of beam quality, efficiency and dimensions. Laser‐based plastic welding is gaining market share not only for automotive parts but also for medical and consumer parts. In order to offer flexible and innovative solutions to their customers, Dilas developed new optical solutions providing distinct process advantages such as increased welding speed and lower handling costs, especially for cylindrical parts and radial welding seams. While there are different radial welding seams for plastic components, all of them are based on the same principle which is laser transmission welding.
Two‐Photon Polymerization — A Versatile Microfabrication Tool
Authors: Niesler Fabian , Hermatschweiler Martin
Published: June 2015

With additive manufacturing entering the consumer market and exciting the stock market, “3D printing” has become fashionable in society. Freedom in design as well as easy workflows are positive attributes associated with this umbrella terminology for a variety of fabrication techniques. 3D printing, or additive manufacturing gives designers previously unknown flexibilities and eliminates one of the most cost‐, time‐ and labour‐intensive stages of the product development process in industrial manufacturing, the production of tools. 3D printing is more precise, faster and mostly less expensive than traditional forms of manufacturing, especially in respect of rapid prototyping of individual parts. 3D objects of almost any shape can be printed from a virtual model in a variety of materials.
Rugged Sensor Systems Lay a Solid Foundation for Welding Processes
Authors: Dorsch Friedhelm
Published: June 2015

Especially where processes are part of high‐volume production, the use of sensors is becoming ever more important. On the one hand, checks integrated into the process save time, since no additional work cycles are needed. On the other hand, certain processes are not possible at all without sensor systems. The devices used here have to be easy to integrate, simple in operation, and robust beyond question.
From Laser Marking to Ultra‐Short Pulsed Lasers
Authors: Kiedrowski Thomas , Michalowski Andreas , Bauer Franziska
Published: June 2015

Material processing with laser radiation has a long tradition at Bosch. As early as in 1976, the first laser process was established in serial production. The application at that time was trimming of resistors on ceramic multi‐layers. A few years later, in 1981, laser welding started with a first application. Today, it is the most popular welding technology at Bosch with more than 500 laser systems installed. In 1985, laser marking was established for the first time and has found its way into almost every production line today. In the field of laser micro processing, the next step was the introduction of laser soldering in mass production in 1992 (Fig.1). However, the number of installed laser systems is by far lower than in laser marking or welding.
Trends in BIW Aluminum Welding
Authors: Luft Axel , Stittgen Tobias
Published: June 2015

Since 2001 diode lasers are in use in automotive series production and are still gaining importance. All major Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are using diode lasers today. Typical applications are welding and brazing of zinc coated steel, welding of aluminum and cutting. Due to significant weight saving potentials the OEMs put a special focus on aluminum welding applications.
Weld Process Inspection
Authors: Flinn Gregory , Federau Gregor , Lampert Bastian , Oechsner Ulrich
Published: June 2015

Welding in remote and hazardous conditions presents a demanding problem to the robotic systems developer, in particular if the process needs to be monitored in‐situ. However, through proper application of a small suite of in‐house optics and photonics technologies, Hamburg specialist Schäfter+Kirchhoff already has the solution to hand.
Electronics and Automotive Applications Drive the Laser Market
Authors: Mayer Arnold
Published: June 2015

The global market for laser systems for materials processing reached a volume of EUR 8.67 billion in 2014, up by 8 % versus 2013. The demand for laser materials processing systems has marked new record highs for four consecutive years (Fig. 1). Laser systems for macro and fine processing account for the major share of about 75 % of the market volume, while the remaining 25 % is allocated to laser systems for micro processing.
Learn 7 ways Tennessee community colleges doubled completion rates
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: June 2015

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS — When Barack Obama unveiled his bill for America's College Promise in January 2015, one of the models upon which the proposal was based came from the example set by the Tennessee Board of Regents, a collection of 13 community colleges and six four‐year universities. Recognizing that by 2020, 65 percent of jobs in the United States will require some level of postsecondary education, Tennessee passed the Complete College Tennessee Act in 2010.
Support women vets: An underserved population
Authors: Santovec Mary Lou
Published: June 2015

A new report from the Disabled American Veterans found significant service gaps for female veterans in health care, transition services, disability compensation, and even housing and employment. Sarah Minnis aims to do something about that.
Students Speak/Resources
Authors: Gomez Cynthia
Published: June 2015

Students Speak

Airman circumvents turbulence along educational path

Resources

Expand your library of digital aids with open textbooks

Review case study about competency‐based program
Learn how to cultivate 6 crucial roots of healthy leadership
Authors: Rosen Robert H.
Published: June 2015

High performance stems from an individual's inner characteristics — well‐formed roots that provide the foundation of effective, healthy leadership. Here's how you can develop these characteristics.
Collaborate to provide comprehensive support, boost retention
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: June 2015

When students appear to be struggling, faculty members often suggest tutoring or other academic resources. But what if the student is hungry? What if she is being evicted from her apartment?
Poly(2‐oxazoline) block copolymer based formulations of taxanes: effect of copolymer and drug structure, concentration, and environmental factors
Authors: Seo Youngee , Schulz Anita , Han Yingchao , He Zhijian , Bludau Herdis , Wan Xiaomeng , Tong Jing , Bronich Tatiana K. , Sokolsky Marina , Luxenhofer Robert , Jordan Rainer , Kabanov Alexander V.
Published: June 2015

Many current nanoformulations of taxanes are hampered by low drug‐loading capacity and unfavorable physicochemical characteristics such as large particles size (>100 nm) and/or low size uniformity. We have previously reported on taxane nanoformulations, based on poly(2‐oxazoline) polymeric micelles that display an extremely high taxane loading capacity (>40% w/w) and particle size below 50 nm. Previous work was based on a triblock copolymer having poly(2‐butyl‐2‐oxazoline) as the hydrophobic block and poly(2‐methyl‐2‐oxazoline) as the hydrophilic blocks. This paper explores the effects of various formulation parameters such as (i) the drug and polymer structure; (ii) the drug and polymer concentration; and (iii) the composition of aqueous medium on the solubilization behavior and physicochemical properties of the resulting formulations. In addition, in vitro anticancer activity is reported. Despite numerous variations of the hydrophobicity, polarity or addition of aromatic residues in the hydrophobic core, the triblock copolymer with the poly(2‐butyl‐2‐oxazoline) block remains the polymer with the highest drug‐loading capacity. Notably, the formulation was easily scalable with uncompromised encapsulation efficacy, loading capacity, and physicochemical properties. The taxane formulations were stable upon storage (water, saline, and dextrose solution) for 1–2 weeks and could be lyophilized and re‐dispersed without compromising the formulation properties. Furthermore, the micelles remained stable upon dilution. The drug‐loaded poly(2‐oxazoline) micelles showed high toxicity against several cancer cell lines. Taken together, these results underscore the potential of poly(2‐oxazoline) micelles as formulation excipient for taxanes and possibly other hydrophobic drugs. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The property of polycarbonate/acrylonitrile butadiene styrene‐based conductive composites filled by nickel‐coated carbon fiber and nickel–graphite powder
Authors: Chen Tong , Xue Ping , Jia Mingyin
Published: June 2015

The filled conductive composites were prepared with a polycarbonate/acrylonitrile butadiene styrene matrix and both nickel‐coated carbon fiber (NiCF) and nickel–graphite powder (NCG) as fillers by using injection molding and injection‐compression molding. The effect of the NiCF content, NCG content, coupling agent, and molding methods on the properties of composites was studied. The results showed that the conductivity of the composites increased with raising the NiCF content and NCG content. NiCF treated with silane coupling agent could further improve the conductivity of the composites without any significant change in mechanical properties. Furthermore, compared with injection molding, the composites prepared by injection‐compression molding possessed better conductivity. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:157–163, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Pharmacokinetics of an Extended 4‐hour Infusion of Piperacillin‐Tazobactam in Critically Ill Patients Undergoing Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy
Authors: Awissi Don‐Kelena , Beauchamp Annie , Hébert Elisabeth , Lavigne Viviane , Munoz Danya Lucia , Lebrun Geneviève , Savoie Michel , Fagnan Mylène , Amyot Julie , Tétreault Nicolas , Robitaille Robert , Varin France , Lavallée Christian , Pichette Vincent , Leblanc Martine
Published: June 2015

Study Objective

To evaluate the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles of piperacillin‐tazobactam administered as a 4‐hour infusion in critically ill patients undergoing continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT).

Design

Prospective, observational, pharmacokinetic study.

Setting

Intensive care unit of a tertiary care hospital in Montréal, Canada.

Patients

Twenty critically ill adults who were undergoing continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration and receiving a 4‐hour infusion of piperacillin 4 g–tazobactam 0.5 g every 8 hours for a documented or suspected infection.

Intervention

Blood samples were collected every hour over an 8‐hour dosing interval. Prefilter and postfilter blood samples, and effluent and urine samples were also collected.

Measurements and Main Results

The primary outcome was the proportion of patients who achieved an unbound piperacillin plasma concentration above a target minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 64 mg/L (MIC that inhibits 90% of isolates for Pseudomonas aeruginosa) for at least 50% of the dosing interval; 18 (90%) of the 20 patients achieved this outcome. In all patients, the free piperacillin concentrations were above the Pseudomonas aeruginosa breakpoint of 16 mg/L for the entire time interval. Regarding piperacillin pharmacokinetic parameters, the median (interquartile range) minimum unbound plasma concentration was 65.15 mg/L (51.30–89.30), maximum unbound plasma concentration was 141.3 mg/L (116.75–173.90), sieving coefficient was 0.809 (0.738–0.938), total clearance was 65.82 ml/minute (53.79–102.87), and renal clearance was 0.16 ml/minute (0.05–3.04). The median CRRT dose was 32.0 ml/kg/h (25.0–39.8).

Conclusions

Administration of a 4‐hour infusion of piperacillin‐tazobactam was associated with a favorable pharmacodynamic profile in patients undergoing CRRT. Concentrations associated with maximal activity were attained in our patients.
CFK: a Fresnel–Köhler concentrator with an external confinement cavity
Authors: Zamora Pablo , Buljan Marina , Benítez Pablo , Li Yang , Miñano Juan Carlos , González Oskar
Published: June 2015

In a concentrator photovoltaic (CPV) module, the solar cell surface reflects a non‐negligible portion of the incoming light, leading to a loss in module efficiency. The Fresnel–Köhler with an external confinement cavity (CFK) is a novel optical CPV concentrator designed to recover this portion of the reflected light. The design is based on an external confinement cavity, an optical element able to redirect the light reflected by the cell surface towards its surface again. Its integration into a CPV module is possible, thanks to the recent invention of advanced Köhler concentrators by LPI. This strategy, based on light recovery, leads to a significant increase in electrical efficiency. We have tested the excellent performance of these cavities by means of integrating one of them into an FK concentrator and manufacturing a proof‐of‐concept prototype. The measured results are outstanding: a relative electrical efficiency and Isc gains of up to 6% when comparing both with and without cavity designs, and a 33.2% of CFK module electrical efficiency (@Tcell = 25 °C) using a 38.5% nominal efficiency cell (without anti‐reflection coatings on the optics). Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Propagation of surface waves and surface resonances along cylindrical cavities in materials with any allowed Poisson's ratio – Part II: Thin‐walled coating
Authors: Sobieszczyk Paweł , Gałązka Mirosław , Trzupek Dominik , Zieliński Piotr
Published: June 2015

Propagation of infinitely‐lived true surface waves (TSW) and of the evanescent surface resonances (pseudo surface waves, PSW) on the inner surface of a cylindrical cavity in an elastic medium coated with a thin elastic membrane is studied. An analogous flat surface with the same coating is considered as a reference system. The dispersion relations of the true surface waves and of the surface resonances are shown to depend on the interplay between the sound speeds in the substrate and in the covering layer. The short‐wavelength limit of the excitations in the cavity is checked to be consistent with the case of the flat surface. Analytical expressions are obtained for the cut‐offs and for the asymptotic behaviors of the excitations in the long‐wavelength and short wavelength limits. The local surface densities of states (LDOS) as well as the real parts of the Green's functions, i.e., analogues of the reactive power, are calculated. The most eminent anomalies of LDOS, which correspond to the longitudinal resonance, are shown to be located close to the apparently spurious roots of the secular determinant of the surface equations of motion. The roots correspond generally to the total conversion of the longitudinal to transverse bulk waves. These roots show cut‐offs, where the life time of the longitudinal resonance increases to infinity. For still lower wave vectors the maxima of LDOS follow the lines of total conversion transverse‐to‐longitudinal with finite life‐times. The radius dependence of the cut‐off wave vector in the small‐radius limit for a fully symmetric torsional mode is and for a fully symmetric high‐frequency axial–radial TSW follows a 1/a behavior, whereas the analogous dependence for a quasi‐Rayleigh surface wave is proportional to except for a certain range of parameters, where the high‐frequency TSW does not exist.
QTc prolongation associated with aripiprazole
Authors: Lam Y. W. Francis
Published: June 2015

Although most of the atypical antipsychotics possess fewer extrapyramidal effects than typical antipsychotics, they also have potential cardiac toxicity, including prolongation of the QT interval on the electrocardiogram (ECG), which is associated with an increased risk of developing the rare but life‐threatening ventricular tachycardia known as torsades de pointes.
Yardsticks to Integrate Risk Assessment, Risk Management, and Groundwater Remediation
Authors: Hadley Paul W. , Arulanantham Ravi , Gandhi Deepa
Published: June 2015

Remediation of contaminated sites has focused largely on restoration of groundwater aquifers. Often the stated remedial goal is to achieve conditions allowing unrestricted use and unrestricted exposure. Such total groundwater cleanup has occurred at some sites, but is the exception rather than the rule. At the same time, significant effort occurs to perform risk assessments for potential exposure to contaminants in groundwater at sites, both before and after remediation. The logical synergy between risk assessment and remediation is for risk management to seek opportunities for optimal use of groundwater based upon realistic expectations of cleanup technologies and the relevant acceptable residual (postremediation) levels of contaminants. This article explores an approach to improve this synergistic relationship between risk assessment, risk management, and remediation for groundwater cleanups. ©2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Simple Modeling Tool for Reconstructing Source History Using High Resolution Contaminant Profiles From Low‐k Zones
Authors: Adamson David T. , Chapman Steven W. , Farhat Shahla K. , Parker Beth L. , deBlanc Phillip C. , Newell Charles J.
Published: June 2015

An innovative but simple analytical modeling tool for reconstructing contaminant concentration versus time trends (i.e., “source history”) for a site using high‐resolution contaminant profiles from low permeability (low‐k) zones was developed and tested. Migration of contaminants into low‐k zones via diffusion (and possibly slow advection) produce concentration versus depth profiles that can be used to understand temporal concentration trends at the interface with overlying transmissive zones, including evidence of attenuation over time due to source decay. A simple transport‐based spreadsheet tool for generating source history estimates fit to the profiles was developed and applied to published soil concentration versus depth data from five distinct areas of four different sites contaminated with chlorinated ethenes. Using the root mean square error as an optimization metric, strong fits between measured and model‐predicted soil data were obtained in the majority of cases using site‐specific values for input parameters. In general, significant improvements could not be obtained by varying these parameters. As a result, the source history estimates generated by the tool were similar to those that had already been generated using more intensive analytical or numerical inverse modeling approaches. This included confirmation of constant source histories at locations where dense nonaqueous‐phase liquid was present (or suspected to be present), and declining source histories for locations where source isolation and/or attenuation had occurred. The advantage of the modeling tool described here is that it provides a simpler yet more dynamic method for understanding source behavior over time than existing approaches. ©2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Estimating Remediation and Contaminant Respiration Emissions for Alternatives Comparisons at Petroleum Spill Sites
Authors: McAlexander Benjamin L. , Tuggle Kurt V.
Published: June 2015

Greenhouse gas emissions assessments for site cleanups typically quantify emissions associated with remediation and not those from contaminant biodegradation. Yet, at petroleum spill sites, these emissions can be significant, and some remedial actions can decrease this additional component of the environmental footprint. This article demonstrates an emissions assessment for a hypothetical site, using the following technologies as examples: excavation with disposal to a landfill, light nonaqueous‐phase liquid (LNAPL) recovery with and without recovered product recycling, passive bioventing, and monitored natural attenuation (MNA). While the emissions associated with remediation for LNAPL recovery are greater than the other considered alternatives, this technology is comparable to excavation when a credit associated with product recycling is counted. Passive bioventing, a green remedial alternative, has greater remedial emissions than MNA, but unlike MNA can decrease contaminant‐related emissions by converting subsurface methane to carbon dioxide. For the presented example, passive bioventing has the lowest total emissions of all technologies considered. This illustrates the value in estimating both remediation and contaminant respiration emissions for petroleum spill sites, so that the benefit of green remedial approaches can be quantified at the remedial alternatives selection stage rather than simply as best management practices. ©2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sand Cap Placement and Cap Thickness Monitoring: A Case Study at a Confined Disposal Facility
Authors: Vidgren Hanne , Helland Aud , Lepland Aivo
Published: June 2015

Thin sediment capping is a commonly used technique to prevent mobilization of contaminants from sediments into the environment. A 70‐m‐deep subaqueous confined disposal facility (CDF, 350,000 m2) at Malmøykalven, Oslofjord, which received dredged contaminated sediments from Oslo Harbor, was capped with 148,900 m3 of sand in 2009. This research serves as a case study regarding some of the key considerations involved with the cap placement and monitoring of the cap layer. Uncertainty is included in all the cap thickness monitoring methods and a combined use of them provided a better understanding of the cap coverage and structure at the site. An open water disposal model (STFATE) was used to simulate the behavior of the barge‐released cap material. The modeling results were consistent with field observations regarding the material spread, and the results provided insight into the relatively high material losses calculated. Better knowledge obtained of material settling resulted in cap properties and cap monitoring methods that are useful when planning similar operations. ©2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Brownfield Sites Remediation Technology Overview, Trends, and Opportunities in China
Authors: Chiang Sheau‐Yun Dora , Gu Qingbao
Published: June 2015

Over decades of economic development, China's industrialization has led to significant environmental issues due to unregulated discharges into air, water, and soil. As cities continue to expand (i.e., urbanization trend) and awareness/concerns about environmental pollution rises, many industrial facilities along the edge of or within the city boundaries have been relocated or closed. This urbanization trend leaves behind idled and abandoned land that is contaminated from the former industrial activities and unregulated discharges. China released its first nationwide soil quality survey in April 2014, and the survey suggests that soil conditions in China represent a significant challenge. China has encouraged local engineering firms to demonstrate soil treatment technologies through pilot‐scale studies, but the outcomes of many demonstrations have not been promising due to the lack of remediation experience and underdeveloped technical guidelines that are needed to guide the remediation processes. During the past decade, some local soil remediation experience has been established, but it is limited for certain technologies that address their primary contaminants of concern: heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants. In 2014, national technical guidelines were published regarding environmental investigation, risk assessment, monitoring, and remediation; however, regulations and funding systems are still underdeveloped. Thus, the remediation processes that should maximize economic and environmental benefits are not streamlined. This article provides an overview of the latest regulatory developments, remediation technologies applied, technology trends, and market opportunities in China. The provided information aims to allow international remediation practitioners to better understand and appreciate this unique and emerging remediation market, which is growing fast, and to highlight the importance of developing a sustainable model that not only provides for cleanup of the environment but also supports economic development. ©2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Developing Effective Decision Support for the Application of “Gentle” Remediation Options: The GREENLAND Project
Authors: Cundy Andy , Bardos Paul , Puschenreiter Markus , Witters Nele , Mench Michel , Bert Valerie , Friesl‐Hanl Wolfgang , Müller Ingo , Weyens Nele , Vangronsveld Jaco
Published: June 2015

Gentle remediation options (GRO) are risk management strategies/technologies that result in a net gain (or at least no gross reduction) in soil function as well as risk management. They encompass a number of technologies, including the use of plant (phyto‐), fungi (myco‐), and/or bacteria‐based methods, with or without chemical soil additives or amendments, for reducing contaminant transfer to local receptors by in situ stabilization, or extraction, transformation, or degradation of contaminants. Despite offering strong benefits in terms of risk management, deployment costs, and sustainability for a range of site problems, the application of GRO as practical on‐site remedial solutions is still in its relative infancy, particularly for metal(loid)‐contaminated sites. A key barrier to wider adoption of GRO relates to general uncertainties and lack of stakeholder confidence in (and indeed knowledge of) the feasibility or reliability of GRO as practical risk management solutions. The GREENLAND project has therefore developed a simple and transparent decision support framework for promoting the appropriate use of gentle remediation options and encouraging participation of stakeholders, supplemented by a set of specific design aids for use when GRO appear to be a viable option. The framework is presented as a three phased model or Decision Support Tool (DST), in the form of a Microsoft Excel‐based workbook, designed to inform decision‐making and options appraisal during the selection of remedial approaches for contaminated sites. The DST acts as a simple decision support and stakeholder engagement tool for the application of GRO, providing a context for GRO application (particularly where soft end‐use of remediated land is envisaged), quick reference tables (including an economic cost calculator), and supporting information and technical guidance drawing on practical examples of effective GRO application at trace metal(loid) contaminated sites across Europe. This article introduces the decision support framework. ©2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Understanding the Causes of Spills From the Supply and Handling of Chemicals at Resource Construction Sites: A Case Study
Authors: Guerin Turlough F.
Published: June 2015

An intermediate bulk container (IBC) was punctured during its handling, releasing a refined oil product onto land at a large construction site in an environmentally sensitive region of Australia. Understanding and controlling the risks from fuel, oil, and chemical spills on the current project was of critical importance as part of the project's overall approval, and ongoing compliance depended on the project committing to minimizing all chemical and petroleum hydrocarbon spills on the site. The telehandler (forklift) did not pierce the plastic of the IBC directly (as was expected to be the case) but rather one of the tynes caught on the underside of the metal base plate (pallet belly plate), despite numerous controls being in place at the time of spill (to limit the risks of damaging the IBC), revealing a previously unreported mechanism for a fluid spill from handling of petroleum hydrocarbons and related chemicals. The investigation team used a root cause analysis (RCA) technique, based on the fishbone (Ishikawa) diagram, which was undertaken with 12 expert contributors (from the project) to identify the underlying cause: The inspection process was inadequate. This study is a companion to the article published in Winter 2014 in Remediation (Guerin, 2014) covering multiple causes of spills from plant and equipment commonly used on construction and remediation projects. ©2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Gain insight into the role colleges play in addressing sexual misconduct
Authors: Bennett Laura
Published: June 2015

Rape, sexual assault and stalking all qualify as criminal acts that, ideally, should be investigated and prosecuted through the criminal justice system, just like all other crimes. However, when these incidents occur between students at a college or university, that institution must also respond.
Did a university violate a student's ADA rights?
Authors: Gelpi Aileen
Published: June 2015

Tina Bonneau — a student at the State University of New York at Brockport — notified university officials in 2008 that she had a disability. They provided extended test‐taking time, short breaks during classes, and notes for missed class time.