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Although the rate of infection after the reconstruction of a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is low, prophylactic incubation of the graft with vancomycin (Vanco-wrap or vancomycin soaking) is routinely performed. A cytotoxic effect of vancomycin is reported for several cell types, and the prophylactic treatment might prevent infection but harm the tissue and cells. Aim: A comprehensive study was performed to investigate the effect of vancomycin on tendon tissue and isolated tenocytes using cell viability, molecular and mechanical analysis. Material and methods: Rat tendons or isolated tenocytes were incubated in increasing concentrations of vancomycin (0–10 mg/mL) for different times, and cell viability, gene expression, histology and Young's modulus were analyzed. Results: The clinically used concentration of vancomycin (5 mg/mL for 20 min) had no negative effect on cell viability in the tendons or the isolated tenocytes, while incubation with the toxic control significantly reduced cell viability. Increasing the concentration and prolonging the incubation time had no negative effect on the cells. The expression of Col1a1, Col3a1 and the tenocyte markers mohawk, scleraxis and tenomodulin was not affected by the various vancomycin concentrations. The structural integrity as measured through histological and mechanical testing was not compromised. Conclusion: The results proved the safe application of the Vanco-wrap on tendon tissue. Level of evidence: IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the clinical application value of integrated wrapping and reinforcing technique of ligamentum teres hepatis and falciform ligament in pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) of soft pancreas. Methods: Clinical data of patients with soft pancreas undergoing opern PD or pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy (PPPD) were retrospectively analyzed in Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital from January 2016 to December 2021. According to whether the integrated wrapping and reinforcing technique of ligamentum teres hepatis and falciform ligament was applied, the patients were divided into two groups: non-wrapping or rein- forcing group (2016.1-2018.12, 246 cases), wrapping and reinforcing group (2019.1-2021.12, 244 cases). The basic preoperative characteristics, intraoperative data, postoperative data, treatment measures and outcomes of patients with post-pancreatectomy hemorrhage. (PPH) were compared between the two groups. Results: In preoperative basic clinical data, there were no significant differences in age, gender, preoperative hypertension and diabetes history, American society of anesthesiologists (ASA) score, preoperative alanine amino- transferase, serum albumin and total bilirubin, preoperative biliary drainage, tumor location and tumor nature between the two groups (P>0.05). In intraoperative data, there were no significant differences in operative time, intraoperative blood loss, intraoperative blood transfusion, resection type, PV or SMV resection and reconstruction, and main pancreatic duct diameter between the two groups (P>0.05). In postoperative data, there were significant differences in the incidence of overall postoperative complications, clinically related postoperative pancreatic fistula (CR-POPF) and intra-abdominal infection, rate of percutaneous catheter drainage, incidence of late extraluminal post-pancreatectomy hemorrhage (PPH) and grade C late extraluminal PPH, and rates of PPH-related reoperation and total reoperation, and postoperative hospital stay between the two groups (P<0.05); There were no significant differences in postoperative biliary fistula, delayed gastric empty, early PPH, late intraluminal PPH, grade A and grade B late extraluminal PPH, and perioperative mortality between the two groups (P>0.05). In terms of treatment measures and outcomes of PPH patients, there was significant difference in the rate of the invasive treatment between the two groups (P<0.05); There were no significant differences in the different invasive treatment options and rate of PPH case-fatality between the two groups (P>0.05). Conclusion: The technique of integrated wrapping and reinforcing of ligamentum teres hepatis and falciform ligament can reduce the incidence of overall postoperative complications, CR-POPF, late extraluminal PPH and grade C late extraluminal PPH after PD in patients with soft pancreas, and it can also simultaneously reduce the incidence of intra-abdominal infection, the rates of percutaneous catheter drainage and reoperation, and shorten postoperative hospital stay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cryogenic tanks are still considered the most efficient method of storing fluids. This is due to its resistance to much damage caused by corrosion induced by low temperature and internal pressure. In this study, the finite element method is used to analyze the repair performance by a composite wrap in a corroded tank. A parametric analysis was carried out in order to highlight the effects of low temperature and pressure on the thermo-mechanical behavior of the corroded structure and to predict the evolution of stresses in the vicinity of corrosion. An approach to this problem based on the notion of material strength was necessary since it was essential to take both the size of the pre-existing defect and the amount of mechanical stresses. The results obtained show the effect of thermal and mechanical loading to examine their impact on the strength of the structure on the one hand, and on the other hand, the influence of the composite wrap repair in the different corrosion lengths (Path 1, 2, 3) on the reinforcement of the tank. Finally, repairing damage (corrosion) using FRP composites increases the durability of cryogenic tanks, which increases their efficiency their performance and increases their life, although the rate of improvement depends largely on operating conditions, such as pressure and temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NIMH requires intervention research to utilize an experimental therapeutic approach, identifying mediators to examine causal mechanisms of change. The authors propose utilizing self-determination theory (SDT) to guide research design for self-management interventions, using Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) as an exemplar. To delineate the theory's relevance to self-management interventions and recovery outcomes, the authors describe the main constructs of SDT and demonstrate its applicability to WRAP and recovery. Suggestions for research design and measurement strategies are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prehensile and gripping organs are recurring structures in different organisms that enhance friction by the reinforcement and redirection of normal forces. The relationship between organ structure and biomechanical performance is poorly understood, despite a broad relevance for microhabitat choice, movement ecology and biomimetics. Here, we present the first study of the biomechanics of prehensile feet in long-legged harvestmen. These arachnids exhibit the strongest sub-division of legs among arthropods, permitting extreme hyperflexion (i.e. curling up the foot tip). We found that despite the lack of adhesive foot pads, these moderately sized arthropods are able to scale vertical smooth surfaces, if the surface is curved. Comparison of three species of harvestmen differing in leg morphology shows that traction reinforcement by foot wrapping depends on the degree of leg sub-division, not leg length. Differences are explained by adaptation to different microhabitats on trees. The exponential increase of foot section length from distal to proximal introduces a gradient of flexibility that permits adaptation to a wide range of surface curvature while maintaining integrity at strong flexion. A pulley system of the claw depressor tendon ensures the controlled flexion of the high number of adesmatic joints in the harvestman foot. These results contribute to the general understanding of foot function in arthropods and showcase an interesting model for the biomimetic engineering of novel transportation systems and surgical probes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prehensile and gripping organs are recurring structures in different organisms that enhance friction by the reinforcement and redirection of normal forces. The relationship between organ structure and biomechanical performance is poorly understood, despite a broad relevance for microhabitat choice, movement ecology and biomimetics. Here, we present the first study of the biomechanics of prehensile feet in long-legged harvestmen. These arachnids exhibit the strongest sub-division of legs among arthropods, permitting extreme hyperflexion (i.e. curling up the foot tip). We found that despite the lack of adhesive foot pads, these moderately sized arthropods are able to scale vertical smooth surfaces, if the surface is curved. Comparison of three species of harvestmen differing in leg morphology shows that traction reinforcement by foot wrapping depends on the degree of leg sub-division, not leg length. Differences are explained by adaptation to different microhabitats on trees. The exponential increase of foot section length from distal to proximal introduces a gradient of flexibility that permits adaptation to a wide range of surface curvature while maintaining integrity at strong flexion. A pulley system of the claw depressor tendon ensures the controlled flexion of the high number of adesmatic joints in the harvestman foot. These results contribute to the general understanding of foot function in arthropods and showcase an interesting model for the biomimetic engineering of novel transportation systems and surgical probes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prehensile and gripping organs are recurring structures in different organisms that enhance friction by the reinforcement and redirection of normal forces. The relationship between organ structure and biomechanical performance is poorly understood, despite a broad relevance for microhabitat choice, movement ecology and biomimetics. Here, we present the first study of the biomechanics of prehensile feet in long-legged harvestmen. These arachnids exhibit the strongest sub-division of legs among arthropods, permitting extreme hyper-flexion (i.e. curling up the foot tip). We found that despite the lack of adhesive foot pads, these moderately sized arthropods are able to scale vertical smooth surfaces, if the surface is curved. The comparison of three species of harvestmen differing in leg morphology show that traction reinforcement by foot wrapping depends on the degree of leg sub-division, not leg length. Differences are explained by adaptation to different microhabitats on trees. The exponential increase of foot section length from distal to proximal introduces a gradient of flexibility that permits adaptation to a wide range of surface curvature while maintaining integrity at strong flexion. A pulley system of the claw depressor tendon ensures the controlled flexion of the high number of adesmatic joints in the harvestman foot. These results contribute to the general understanding of foot function in arthropods and showcase an interesting model for the biomimetic engineering of novel transportation systems and surgical probes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study the finite element method is used to analyze the performances of bonded composite wrap repair of cracked steel pipelines. Parametric analysis was performed in order to highlight the effects of the geometrical properties on the repair efficiency. The experimental design method is used to explore the effects of wrap dimensions (length, angle and thickness) in order to optimize the repair process. We showed in using the MOODE.5 software the most dominant geometrical parameters on stress intensity factor at the crack front which to determine the most important parameters on the repair efficiency. This optimization can help the composite wrap designers to improve the repair performance and rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study the finite element method is used to analyse the performances of bonded composite wrap repair in cracked pipelines. Parametric analysis was performed in order to highlight the effects of the geometrical properties on the repair efficiency. The obtained results show that the optimization of the geometric properties of the wrap is still required to best improve the quality of repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perivascular medical devices and perivascular drug delivery systems are conceived for local application around a blood vessel during open vascular surgery. These systems provide mechanical support and/or pharmacological activity for the prevention of intimal hyperplasia following vessel injury. Despite abundant reports in the literature and numerous clinical trials, no efficient perivascular treatment is available. In this review, the existing perivascular medical devices and perivascular drug delivery systems, such as polymeric gels, meshes, sheaths, wraps, matrices, and metal meshes, are jointly evaluated. The key criteria for the design of an ideal perivascular system are identified. Perivascular treatments should have mechanical specifications that ensure system localization, prolonged retention and adequate vascular constriction. From the data gathered, it appears that a drug is necessary to increase the efficacy of these systems. As such, the release kinetics of pharmacological agents should match the development of the pathology. A successful perivascular system must combine these optimized pharmacological and mechanical properties to be efficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • SWAT+ model and WRAP were coupled to obtain daily streamflow data. • Disaggregation technique based on flow pattern is recommended. • Disaggregation of a monthly calibrated model estimates reliable environmental flows. • SWAT+ model calibrated on a daily scale underestimates environmental flow. • An alternative for environmental flows estimation in anthropized watersheds is shown. The Water Framework Directive requires all water bodies in EU countries to ensure the ecological integrity of freshwater ecosystems in all water bodies. A "good" status in water bodies leads to their biological elements to reproduce reference conditions, so quantity and timing should be considered in describing environmental flows. However, the availability of daily natural flow data is one of the major drawbacks, especially in highly water-regulated countries, such as Spain, and hydrological models, such as the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT+) model, can be used to generate them. This work evaluated three different approaches for obtaining daily flows used to characterise the natural regime and to estimate environmental flows in the Piloña River (northern Spain) and Tagus River (centre Spain) basins: Scenario 1) daily flows simulated by the SWAT+ model calibrated on a monthly scale; Scenario 2) daily flows estimated by applying monthly-to-daily disaggregation techniques from the monthly series obtained from the SWAT+ model calibrated on a monthly scale using Water Rights Analysis Package (WRAP) software; and Scenario 3) daily flows simulated by the SWAT+ model calibrated on a daily scale. The Kling–Gupta efficiency (KGE), percent bias (PBIAS), Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE), root mean square error (RMSE) and standard deviation ratio (RSR) were used to evaluate the model's performance. Furthermore, the indicators of hydrologic alteration in rivers (IAHRIS) and the basic flow methods were assessed and compared with those obtained directly using the real data observed at the gauging station. Our results indicated that Scenario 2 outperformed the rest of the approaches for all the statistics used. KGE and NSE varied between 0.78 and 0.92 for both basins in Scenario 2 while these values decreased to 0.50–0.60 for KGE and 0.20–0.40 for NSE in Scenarios 1 and 3. Moreover, PBIAS ranged between 3.24 and 4.47% in validation periods in Scenario 2, while it decreased to −14.64% in Scenario 3. Likewise, Scenario 2 was also observed to show better performance related to both the patterns of the natural regime and the basic flow values, which were generally underestimated by the other scenarios. The methodology proposed provides a valuable tool for evaluating and managing the hydrological and environmental status of river basins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polygenic risk scores (PRSs) have been used to combine the effects of variants with small effects identified by genome-wide association studies. We explore the potential for using pathway-specific PRSs as predictors of early changes in Alzheimer's disease (AD)-related biomarkers and cognitive function. Participants were from the Wisconsin Registry for Alzheimer's Prevention, a longitudinal study of adults who were cognitively asymptomatic at enrollment and enriched for a parental history of AD. Using genes associated with AD in the International Genomics of Alzheimer's Project's meta-analysis, we identified clusters of genes that grouped into pathways involved in amyloid-β (Aβ) deposition and neurodegeneration: Aβ clearance, cholesterol metabolism, and immune response. Weighted pathway-specific and overall PRSs were developed and compared to APOE alone. Mixed models were used to assess whether each PRS was associated with cognition in 1,200 individuals, cerebral Aβ deposition measured using amyloid ligand (Pittsburgh compound B) positron emission imaging in 168 individuals, and cerebrospinal fluid Aβ deposition, neurodegeneration, and tau pathology in 111 individuals, with replication performed in an independent sample. We found that PRSs including APOE appeared to be driven by the inclusion of APOE, suggesting that the pathway-specific PRSs used here were not more predictive than an overall PRS or APOE alone. However, pathway-specific PRSs could prove to be useful as more knowledge is gained on the genetic variants involved in specific biological pathways of AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Intimal hyperplasia (IH) remains a major cause of poor patient outcomes after surgical revascularization to treat atherosclerosis. A multitude of drugs have been shown to prevent the development of IH. Moreover, endovascular drug delivery following angioplasty and stenting has been achieved with a marked diminution in the incidence of restenosis. Despite advances in endovascular drug delivery, there is currently no clinically available method of periadventitial drug delivery suitable for open vascular reconstructions. Herein we provide an overview of the recent literature regarding innovative polymer platforms for periadventitial drug delivery in preclinical models of IH as well as insights about barriers to clinical translation. Methods A comprehensive PubMed search confined to the past 15 years was performed for studies of periadventitial drug delivery. Additional searches were performed for relevant clinical trials, patents, meeting abstracts, and awards of NIH funding. Results Most of the research involving direct periadventitial delivery without a drug carrier was published prior to 2000. Over the past 15 years there have been a surge of reports utilizing periadventitial drug-releasing polymer platforms, most commonly bioresorbable hydrogels and wraps. These methods proved to be effective for the inhibition of IH in various animal models (e.g. balloon angioplasty, wire injury, and vein graft), but very few have advanced to clinical trials. There are a number of barriers that may account for this lack of translation. Promising new approaches including the use of nanoparticles will be described. Conclusions No periadventitial drug delivery system has reached clinical application. For periadventitial delivery, polymer hydrogels, wraps, and nanoparticles exhibit overlapping and complementary properties. The ideal periadventitial delivery platform would allow for sustained drug release yet exert minimal mechanical and inflammatory stresses to the vessel wall. A clinically applicable strategy for periadventitial drug delivery would benefit thousands of patients undergoing open vascular reconstruction each year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study evaluated the effectiveness of the Wellness Recovery Action Planning (WRAP) in a matched controlled design among individuals in recovery of mental illness in Hong Kong. Feedback from the first batch of WRAP facilitators in Hong Kong was sought for future implementation of WRAP. Participants were recruited from the service units of the largest nongovernmental organization (NGO) serving people in recovery in Hong Kong. Fifty-nine service users were recruited to learn WRAP and 59 service users served as matched controls. The WRAP program consisted of eight weekly sessions delivered by NGO staff who were certified WRAP facilitators. Assessments were completed before, immediately after, and 3 months after the program. Findings based on repeated measures ANOVAs showed that compared with their matched controls, WRAP participants reported significant increase in perceived social support. No significant change was noted in empowerment, hope, self-stigma, social network size, symptom severity, and recovery. Facilitators discussed issues on cultural adaptation and resources needed for future implementation of WRAP for Chinese. Discrepancies between the present findings and those from previous studies were discussed. This is the first quantitative study evaluating the effectiveness of WRAP among Chinese. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Executing a life cycle carbon analysis on a building has two components to consider: the Embodied Carbon (EC) and In-use Carbon, the sum of these forms ‘the building carbon budget'. The in-use can be obtained through regulatory tools such as the Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) in the UK. Embodied carbon has a loose framework with little guidance on a standardised methodology. This paper explores embodied carbon analysis using building components to enhance the understanding of the sensitivity and categorisation of measurements to propose a methodology. The exploration of differing methods on a Passivhaus case study was undertaken with the use of global warming potential identified as the correct unit of measurement. Different methods of estimating quantities and datasets used for an EC calculation are discussed. Results highlight a variation in carbon emissions for certain common building materials between the method used in the Environmental Performance Declarations (EPD) compared to current databases such as Inventory of Carbon and Energy (ICE) using Cradle to Gate data. Designers prefer simple embodied carbon calculation methods. This paper identifies a calculation method giving an acceptable accuracy with the least amount of input data required to implement regulatory standardisation within the industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cognitive decline is one of the hallmark features of Alzheimer's disease, but many studies struggle to find strong associations between cognitive function and genetic variants. In order to identify which aspects of cognition are more likely to have a strong genetic component, we assessed the heritability of various cognitive functions related to Alzheimer's disease in 303 initially asymptomatic middle-aged adult siblings with a parental history of Alzheimer's disease from the Wisconsin Registry for Alzheimer's Prevention. Participants underwent extensive cognitive testing, and six cognitive factors were identified via factor analysis. Working Memory and Visual Learning & Memory had the highest heritability (52% and 41%, respectively). Inclusion of APOE allele counts did not notably change heritability estimates, indicating that there are likely additional genetic variants contributing to cognition. These findings suggest that future genetic studies should focus on the cognitive domains of Working Memory and Visual Learning & Memory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of daily naturalized flow in the water rights analysis package (WRAP) model at ungaged stations has difficulties because of low daily flow measurement at gaged stations, low available monthly naturalized flow, and budget constraints. This study proposes a procedure for developing daily naturalized flow at ungaged stations. The soil and water assessment tool (SWAT) model was validated with little daily flows and used for predicting the daily flow at gage stations that are near ungaged stations. The predicted daily flow is transferred at ungaged stations using the drainage area ratio (DAR) method. The transferred daily flow is aggregated and compared with monthly regulated flow computed by the WRAP model with the mean, standard deviation, mean relative error, Nash-Sutcliffe model efficiencies, and correlation coefficient (R²). The SWAT daily flow, which is referred to as the regulated flows, is converted using regression equations into naturalized flow and used as the daily pattern flow for monthly naturalized flow disaggregation. The system application of the SWAT and WRAP models with DAR and pattern methods provides alternative ways to generate daily naturalized flow at ungaged stations through disaggregating monthly naturalized flow at primary stations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of absorbable mesh wrapping (MW) versus perihepatic packing (HP) for severe hepatic injury. METHODS: From January 2001 to December 2012, data were collected for MW patients with hepatic injury. Patients who underwent HP were matched with MW patients by injury mechanism, liver injury grade, Injury Severity Score, and age. RESULTS: Twenty-six MW and twenty-six HP patients were matched. Eighteen blunt and 8 penetrating injuries were present in each group. There were 9 (35%) mortalities in the MW group and 16 (62%) in the HP groups (P = .03). Average transfusions were 12.0 and 24.5 (P = .03) packed red blood cells in the MW and HP groups, respectively. Average laparotomies per survivors were 1.3 for the MW and 3.1 for the HP groups (P = .01). Average length of stay for survivors was 19 and 47 (P = .04) days in the MW and HP groups, respectively. CONCLUSION: MW for hepatic injuries can significantly decrease mortality, transfusions, laparotomies, and length of stay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Das Kraftwerk Meliti in Nordgriechenland ist ein Braunkohlekraftwerk mit einer Bruttoleistung von 330 MW und wird von der Public Power Corporation (PCC) betrieben. Am 25. Juli 2014 brach ein Feuer an einer Förderbandanlage aus, die den Brennstoff zum Bunkerschwerbau fördert. Es entstanden Schäden in der 240 m langen stählernen Förderbandbrücke sowie in dem angrenzenden Betonbunkerschwerbau. Die Förderbandbrücke wurde durch Auswechselung der beschädigten Stäbe und Verbindungsmittel ohne Einsatz von Lehrgerüsten zur temporären Abstützung instandgesetzt. Am Bunkerschwerbau entstanden lokale Schäden, die mit Hilfe von CFK-Lamellen und -Gewebe behoben werden konnten. Nach zwei Monaten Instandsetzung wurde die Kraftwerksanlage wieder in Betrieb genommen. Structural rehabilitation of the power plant Meliti, Greece after fire. The power plant Meliti in Northern Greece is a 300 MW power station that uses lignite as fuel. On the 25th of July 2014 a fire broke out in the conveyor belt that transports the coal to the bunker. The fire resulted in damages in the 240 m long steel conveyor bridge and the concrete bunker structure. The conveyor bridge was repaired without scaffolding temporary supports by exchanging the damaged parts and the connection media with new. The bunker was subjected to local damages that were rehabilitated by application of FRP sheets and FRP wraps. The plant was in operation in two months after it was fully rehabilitated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Topic: This article reflects on the importance of fidelity in the delivery of the peer-based Wellness Recovery Action Plan. Purpose: The purpose of this account is to describe efforts being made to preserve the evidenced-based practice of the Wellness Recovery Action Plan in ways that sustain the core value of self-determination, maintain fidelity to its copyrighted curriculum, and support its positive impact for all people. Sources Used: The writing is based on personal knowledge and research literature related to the Wellness Recovery Action Plan. Conclusions and Implications for Practice: The implementation and training of facilitators committed to the value of self-determination is critical to the fidelity of the evidence-based, peer-delivered Wellness Recovery Action Plan. Value-based training and WRAP standards are essential to ensure that WRAP continues to contribute substantially to transformative change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From 2004 to 2008, 1,834 Environmental Resource Permits were issued for development projects in coastal wetlands within the Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program. We evaluated 118 sites utilizing three wetland functional assessment methods (WFAMs): Hydrogeomorphic Method (HGM), Wetland Rapid Assessment Procedure (WRAP), and Uniform Mitigation Assessment Method (UMAM). All functioned as designed and produced similar assessments of wetlands but yielded different mitigation results. The study results showed that HGM was most effective in identifying and quantifying wetland functions of coastal wetlands. UMAM and WRAP are useful but delivered mitigation ratios less than one in both function and area, resulting in net wetland losses. The wetland area lost over the study period was small relative to total wetland area, but the permitted wetland elimination is gradually reducing the extent of wetlands. The process relocates wetland functions out of impacted watersheds toward off-site mitigation areas. The WFAM site evaluations indicated an equal or greater balance of ecosystem functions within the total service area when utilizing off-site mitigation. However, there is loss of wetland area and function in the donor watershed and an increase in function, but not area, of wetlands in the receiving watershed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper reports on an experimental investigation that evaluates the effectiveness of newly developed material, steel fibre reinforced polymer (SFRP) sheets to confine small-scale plain concrete circular and square columns. Different parameters were investigated including: number of SFRP layers (1, 2, and 3), target concrete compressive strength (25, 30, and 35MPa), cross-section of the columns (circular and square), and corner radius for square columns (3, 6, 10, and 25mm). The experimental investigation was conducted in three phases. In Phase I, 36 circular specimens (150mm diameter×300mm height) and in Phase II, 36 square specimens (150mm side length×300mm height) were tested. In each phase, the specimens were divided into three groups according to concrete compressive strength. In each group, three specimens were tested without wrapping for comparison purposes, and three specimens for each number of layers. In Phase III, 12 SFRP wrapped (one layer) square specimens with a target concrete compressive strength of 25MPa were tested to investigate the effect of varying the corner radii on the confined compressive strength. The specimens were tested under monotonic concentric uni-axial compression load. Results showed that SFRP confinement improved the performance of both circular and square specimens in terms of axial strength and ductility; however, the improvement for square specimens was not as prominent as that for circular specimens. Rounding the corners of the square specimens improves the situation for square specimens and performance enhances with increasing corner radius. The confined concrete compressive strength was predicted using equations available in different codes and models and compared with experimental results. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We describe a patient who developed acute chest pain and ST-segment elevation in the inferior leads on electrocardiography. In his control electrocardiography after 15 min, ST-segment elevation was observed in the anterior leads. Cardiac catheterization showed that there was wraparound left anterior descending artery and an occlusion in the proximal region. The occlusion was resolved by typical ballooning. To our knowledge, simultaneous ST elevations in anterior and inferior leads have been reported in the literature; however, in our case, with serial electrocardiographic (ECG) records, we realized that inferior ST-segment elevation altered to anterior ST-segment elevation. This indicates the importance of serial ECG records in emergency departments to explain the mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wrapped carbon nanotubes with polypropylene were synthesised by in situ graft method and used as a reinforcement agent for commercial polypropylene. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy revealed that carbon nanotubes were wrapped by polypropylene and dispersed homogeneously in polypropylene matrix. Infrared spectroscopy results showed that there was covalently linkage between polypropylene and carbon nanotubes via maleic anhydride grafting. The linkage was further confirmed by Raman observation. Furthermore, the X-ray diffraction research revealed that the carbon nanotubes act as nucleating agent to promote crystallisation. Owing to the uniform dispersion of carbon nanotubes and covalent adhesion between polypropylene and carbon nanotubes, the thermal stability of polypropylene was improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Rectangular columns are often used in bridge pier design, and they make up the majority of building columns. Columns in need of strengthening and retrofit are very common. This paper presents results of a comprehensive experimental investigation on the behavior of axially loaded rectangular columns that have been strengthened with glass fibre reinforced polymer (GFRP) wrap. This paper is intended to examine several aspects related to the use of glass FRP fabrics for strengthening rectangular columns subjected to axial compression. The objectives of the study are as follows: (1) to evaluate the effectiveness of external GFRP strengthening for rectangular Concrete Columns (2) to evaluate the effect of number of GFRP layers on the ultimate load and ductility of confined concrete and (3) to evaluate the effect of the aspect ratio of the column on the effectively confined cross-section. To cover a wide range of cross-sectional dimension ratios, three aspect ratios (a/b, where a and b are, respectively, the longer and shorter sides of the cross-section) were studied: a/b =1.0, a/b =1.25, and a/b =1.66. Specimens with zero, one, and two layers of GFRP wrap were investigated. Totally nine specimens were subjected to axial compression which includes three control specimens. All the test specimens were loaded to failure in axial compression and the behavior of the specimens in the axial and transverse directions was investigated. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Experimental studies are reported on upgrading the load carrying capacity of reinforced concrete rectangular columns by jacketing with glass fiber reinforced plasic flexible wraps. This article presents results of a comprehensive experimental investigation on the behavior of axially loaded rectangular columns that have been strengthened with glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) wrap. This study is intended to examine several aspects related to the use of GFRP fabrics for strengthening rectangular columns subjected to axial compression. The objectives of the study are as follows: (1) to evaluate the effectiveness of external GFRP strengthening for rectangular concrete columns; (2) to evaluate the effect of the number of GFRP layers on the ultimate strength and ductility of confined concrete; and (3) to evaluate the effect of the aspect ratio of the column on the effectively confined cross section. To cover a wide range of cross-sectional dimension ratios, three aspect ratios (H/B, where H and B are, respectively, the longer and shorter sides of the cross section) are studied: H/B= 1.0, H/B= 1.25, and H/B= 1.66. Specimens with zero, one, and two layers of GFRP wrap are investigated. In total, nine specimens are subjected to axial compression which includes three control specimens. All the test specimens are loaded to failure in axial compression and the behavior of the specimens in the axial and transverse directions is investigated. The confinement provided by GFRP improves both the load carrying capacity and the ductility of the rectangular and square columns. This method of structural rehabilitation is shown to be applicable to rectangular sections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the late 1980s, with the advent of increased consumer environmental awareness, DuPont faced a challenge with its TYVEK® family of nonwoven polyethylene textile products. TYVEK is used in a wide variety of applications ranging from house wrap to medical packaging. One of the most visible portions of the business is envelopes used by FedEx (previously known as Federal Express), the well-known courier and delivery service and by the U.S. Postal Service. As early as 1988, end users began asking questions about the environmental characteristics of TYVEK envelopes. As these questions increased, DuPont began to address the concerns directly. In response to the market's concern and because of the increased availability of postconsumer-recycled (PCR) polyethylene, DuPont decided to put PCR polyethylene into TYVEK, beginning with the envelope business. Further, DuPont developed a recycling infrastructure for TYVEK because, although TYVEK consists entirely of high-density polyethylene, which is highly recyclable, no infrastructure was in place to recycle the material. These decisions produced a wide variety of technical and organizational challenges the firm had to overcome. This case study examines how DuPont made these choices and overcame the difficulties created by implementing needed changes. Whereas the envelope market for TYVEK embraced PCR polyethylene, other product markets resisted the innovation. The article closes with a discussion of the lessons learned from DuPont's experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to describe and assess a new method of fixation using a self-adhesive prosthesis (Adhesix™) in laparoscopic ventral rectopexy (LVR). The technical principles are based on a very low dissection and the adhesive properties of the prosthesis which can be applied to the rectum without stitches or staples. The prosthesis is made from polypropylene coated with a synthetic hydrogel. The binding of the prosthesis to rectum and vagina takes place in a wet environment after a few minutes and enables the shaping of the mesh on the surface of the rectum (wrap effect). Between March 2010 and March 2013, 41 patients were operated on using LVR with a self-adhesive prosthesis. The effectiveness of prosthesis fixation was evaluated in a subset of 27 patients suffering from complete rectal prolapse. With a median follow-up of 30 months, there were no major complications and no recurrence. In this initial experience, LVR with a self-adhesive prosthesis does not increase the risk of recurrence. No undesirable effects were associated with the prosthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Since most prostatic diseases are associated with the organ's enlargement, evaluation of prostatic size is a main criterion in the diagnosis of prostatic state of health. While enlargement is a non-uniform process, volumetric measurements are believed to be advantageous to any single dimensional parameter for the diagnosis of prostatomegaly. In a previous study, volume was analysed with a slice addition technique (SAT), which was validated as highly accurate. Irrespective of high accuracy, SAT represents a complex and time-consuming procedure, which limits its clinical use. Thus, demand exists for more practical volume assessment methods. In this study, the prostatic volume of 95 canine patients (58 intact males, 37 neutered males) were analysed retrospectively by using the ellipsoid formula (Formula) and an imaging "wrap" function tool (Wrap) to help assess accuracy and applicability. Accuracy was checked against phantom measurements and results were compared to SAT measurements of the same patient pool obtained from a previously published paper. Patients were grouped according to prostatic structure (H = homogeneous, I = inhomogeneous, C = cystic) and volume using the SAT (volume group = vg: 1, 2 and 3). Results: High correlation between the Formula or Wrap volume and the phantom volume was found, the values being higher for the Formula. Mean Formula volumes (vg 1: 2.2 cm3, vg 2: 14.5 cm3, vg 3: 109.4 cm3, respectively) were significantly underestimated, while mean Wrap volumes (vg 1: 3.8 cm3, vg 2: 19.5 cm3, vg 3: 159.2 cm3) were statistically equivalent to SAT measurements (vg 1: 3.1 cm3, vg 2: 18.6 cm3, vg 3: 157.2 cm3, respectively). Differences between Formula and SAT volumes ranged from 22.4–31.1%, while differences between Wrap and SAT volumes were highest in small prostates (vg 1: 22.1%) and fell with increasing prostatic size (vg 3: 1.3%). Conclusion: The Wrap function is highly accurate, less time-consuming and complex compared to SAT and could serve as beneficial tool for measuring prostatic volume in clinical routine after further validation in future studies. The Formula method cannot be recommended as an alternative for volumetric measurements of the prostate gland due to its underestimation of volumes compared to SAT results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]