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Highlights: [•] Emulsion based droplet hydrothermal synthesis method for uniform sized nanocrystals. [•] This study addresses the limitation of microfluidic and conventional hydrothermal method. [•] Fine-tuned nano-cubic LTA (Linde Type A) zeolite crystals of size ∼100nm were prepared. [•] In 4h of reaction time (aging+crystallization) LTA cubic crystals can be synthesized. [•] Proposed synthesis method produces high crystalline uniform size nanoparticles. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] A facile synthesis has been developed to convert directly solid Na2SiO3. [•] The synthesis has been carried out at ambient pressure and temperature. [•] Hydrolysis was performed using ethanol, Na2SiO3 particles and HCl solution. [•] Other precipitants (NH4Cl, (NH4)2SO4, B2O3) were tested. [•] The particle characteristics were investigated by TGA, FE-SEM, XRD, and BET. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Background: An SHF is rare pial arteriovenous shunt with no nidal component, of which the feeder drains directly into a single venous channel. Casting with NBCA was described previously, but its control demands operator to accumulate a considerable learning curve. We are to present our experiences of coil-based endovascular treatment of SHF. Methods: Eleven patients harbored 12 SHFs (5 men, 6 women; mean age, 28.4 years; age range, 4-73 years), and they presented with hemorrhage, seizure, collapse, orbital mass, and as an incidental lesion. The location was frontal for 3, temporal for 5, parietal in 2, and occipital in 2 patients. The angioarchitectures, the methods of endovascular treatment, and outcomes were analyzed. Results: Fifteen feeders arose from 4 anterior, 8 middle, and 3 posterior cerebral arteries. The coil framework was constructed at the fistula before the penetration of a low concentrated NBCA. Nine fistulae were occluded completely, and 3 fistulae were occluded to near-completion with micro-AVM. There was no recanalization of SHF, either growth of a micro-AVM during follow-up period (mean, 48.3 months; range, 6-120 months). One patient with postprocedure hemorrhage developed hemiplegia, but 1 patient with seizure and the other 9 asymptomatic patients were uneventful. Conclusions: The coil-based endovascular treatment can achieve safe and stable occlusion of SHF, and the preventions against venous thrombosis and perfusion breakthrough should be essential. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A Lagrangian particle model has been developed and applied to a long-range atmospheric dispersion. The developed numerical model has been tested by comparing its predictions with the 137Cs air concentrations recorded over European areas during the Chernobyl accident. Sensitivity studies were performed to investigate the numerical accuracy according to a variation of the parameters such as the mixing height and diffusion coefficient in the model. From a comparative study, the calculated concentration distributions were more sensitive to a variation of the mixing height than to the changes of the diffusion coefficient values. Also, the calculated concentrations agreed with the time series of the measured ones at some sampling points. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Morphology evolution of anatase TiO2 nanocrystals under a hydrothermal condition (pH=9.5) was observed and a relationship between the morphology evolution and photo-catalytic activity was investigated. A titanium hydroxide nanogel was neutrally precipitated from a TiCl4 aqueous solution and then used as the precursor in the hydrothermal process. In the hydrothermal process, the nanogel was finally crystallized and grew to a capped bipyramidal nanocrystal which has faceted {101} pyramidal faces and are capped with rounded (001) faces, passing through an elongated structure with zigzag {101} faces. The final morphology was evolved via four growth stages in series: (i) formation and growth of anatase nuclei with consuming the nanogel, (ii) rapid growth along [001] direction by oriented attachments between (001) faces to produce an elongated structure with zigzag {101} pyramidal faces, (iii) flattening of zigzag {101} pyramidal faces by solution and precipitation, and (iv) rapid growth along [001] direction by solution and precipitation (Ostwald ripening). The photo-catalytic activity of anatase nanocrystals was closely related to the morphology evolution. Especially, the capped bipyramidal nanocrystals in the last growth stage showed an excellent photo-catalysis behavior: some of them were more than three times active than a commercial photo-catalyst (P25). The ultra-high photo-catalytic activity originated in the well-developed {101} surfaces, since the 4-coordinated Ti ions in the step edge of {101} face effectively adsorbed hydroxyl ions. Therefore, the particle morphology (surface property) was important as much as the particle diameter in TiO2 photo-catalysis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: Although it is a rare condition, pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) may involve temporomandibular joint (TMJ). The purpose of this study was to describe magnetic resonance (MR) findings of PVNS of the TMJ. Methods and material: Between April 1992 and August 2000, four patients (two men and two women, 22–58-year-old) who had histologically proven diagnoses of PVNS in their TMJ were found in our institution. Their MR findings were reviewed retrospectively, and were correlated with pathologic findings. Results: In all four patients, MR images invariably showed profound hypointensity on both T1- and T2-weighted sequences. This finding was seen diffusely and homogeneously throughout the lesion, and was considered to be due to paramagnetic effect attributed to heavy hemosiderin pigmentation, which was revealed by histopathological examination. MR images also showed aggressive nature of the lesions with adjacent skull base destruction and intracranial extension in two of them. Conclusion: As is the case in the other anatomic site, PVNS of the TMJ can be confidently diagnosed on MR imaging on the basis of the presence of hemosiderin. MR imaging also plays a pivotal role in surgical planning by precise and detailed localization of the lesion. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Introduction: To evaluate the computed tomographic (CT) findings of primary thyroid lymphoma.Methods and Material: The clinicopathological data and CT images of nine patients with primary thyroid lymphoma were retrospectively reviewed. The CT appearances were classified into three types: type 1, a solitary nodule surrounded by normal thyroid tissue; type 2, multiple nodules in the thyroid, and type 3, a homogeneously enlarged both thyroid glands with a reduced attenuation with or without peripheral thin hyperattenuating thyroid tissue.Results: All patients had a rapidly enlarging thyroid mass and coexistent Hashimoto's thyroiditis. One patient showed type 1 pattern, three type 2, and five type 3. Six patients had homogeneous tumor isoattenuating to surrounding muscles. The tumors had a strong tendency to compress normal remnant thyroid and the surrounding structure without invasion.Conclusion: Primary thyroid lymphoma should be included in the differential diagnosis when old female had a homogeneous thyroidal mass isoattenuating to muscles, which does not invade surrounding structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Many studies have been conducted on flow-electrode capacitive deionization (FCDI), by which the limited ion adsorption capacity per unit cell can be extended, and which can be applied to high-salinity water treatment. Especially, using low-cost ceramic filters as three-dimensional (3D) electrode structure for FCDI is possible, instead of stacking the unit cells for scale-up. However, using ceramic partition walls as spacer can affect water flow and ion transport due to their thickness and porosity. Furthermore, the integrated membrane-spacer-assembly (MSA) having a membrane-coated spacer is more suitable for 3D electrode structure than a separated MSA having a spacer sandwiched between membranes. Herein we investigated the effects of the thickness and porosity of plate-type porous ceramic spacers on the electrochemical properties of the cell and compared the electrochemical properties of separated MSA with those of integrated MSA. Spacer porosity was found to have a larger effect than spacer thickness. Integrated MSA had larger resistance and lower capacitance than separated MSA, leading to lower desalination performance. It was attributed to the change in physical properties of the spacer induced by coating and the difference in ion exchange capacity of the coated membrane itself. Highlights • The porosity and thickness of ceramic spacer affected the electrochemical properties of a CDI cell. • An integrated MSA resulted in large resistance and low capacitance in a CDI cell. • Changes in the physical properties of spacer by coating affected the desalination performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to recent advancements in electrochemical devices such as batteries, fuel cells, and supercapacitors, novel electrochemical processes for industrial plant scale including water treatment and desalination are being actively investigated. Slurry electrodes for flow-electrode capacitive deionization (FCDI) are representative process technology with continuous and easy scale-up characteristics. These characteristics are feasible as slurry electrodes can be flowed in microchannels, instead of stacking conventional electrodes fixed on plates. However, the electrochemical properties of slurry electrodes for electrochemical process engineering have not been clearly identified, compared to those of conventional fixed electrodes. In the present study, we investigated the electrochemical properties of capacitive slurry electrodes with changes in carbon content and electrolyte salt concentration using cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and deionization/regeneration cycle tests with newly fabricated button-type cells. The CV patterns were rectangular, symmetrical, and reversible at a scan rate of 2 mV/s, indicating electrical double-layer capacitive behavior. The results of the EIS and cycle tests demonstrated that increasing the carbon content and electrolyte salt concentration in slurry electrodes improved the cell efficiency due to the higher capacitance and lower total resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stenting of vertebral artery dissecting aneurysms (VADAs) may promote mural apposition of intimal flaps, preserving the patency of injured vessels. Moreover, stent deployment may serve to alter intra-aneurysm flow, inducing saccular thrombus formation, neointimal development, and remodeling of injured vessels. Although an overlapping multistent strategy with coiling has proven successful in this setting, yielding good anatomic and clinical outcomes, coiling may be technically infeasible in some VADAs with unfavorably configured circumferential elevations. Herein, we describe three patients with VADAs for whom coiling was deemed technically problematic. Each underwent double stenting (LVIS within Enterprise), without coil insertion, using local anesthesia. Conventional angiographic follow-up regularly disclosed excellent saccular occlusion and subsequent remodeling of stented arteries. LVIS-within-Enterprise double stenting may be of particular benefit in patients with VADAs, the Enterprise providing outer support to minimize stent bulging (as a fusiform aneurysm) as the inner LVIS reinforces flow diversion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kissing aneurysms are situated on the same artery but have separate points of origin. Open surgical strategies for access from opposing directions may be technically problematic. Recent advances in protective devices and coiling techniques have compelled the present study, aimed at technical aspects and procedural outcomes of coil embolization in this setting. Data prospectively accruing between May 2001 and May 2020 were systematically reviewed, assessing clinical and morphologic outcomes of coil embolization in 36 patients with 72 kissing aneurysms. Lesions most often involved paraclinoid internal carotid artery (n = 22), followed by anterior communicating artery (n = 7). Single-stage coil embolization of both aneurysms took place in nearly all patients (n = 35). Microcatheter tips for selecting paired aneurysms were usually directed opposite to one another (32 of 36, 88.9%), applying protective devices (i.e., balloons or stents) to 1 or both aneurysms in 21 patients (58.3%). Balloons were placed in 9 patients, often when treating first aneurysms and largely for second aneurysms as well (7 of 9, 77.8%). Stents deployed in 14 patients involved first and second aneurysms equally. Two patients required balloon of stent combinations. No procedure-related morbidity or mortality resulted. In follow-up of 68 aneurysms (mean: 40.2 ± 28.1 months) after coiling, 86.8% (59 of 68) showed sustained complete saccular occlusion. Strategies for endovascular treatment of kissing aneurysms rely heavily on characteristics that the paired aneurysms display. Properly conducted single-stage coil embolization is a safe and effective method of treating such lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Pupose: To describe the magnetic resonance (MR) imaging features of six cases of pathologically proven fibrosing inflammatory pseudotumor involving the nasopharynx, and to compare the MR signal intensities of the lesions with histopathologic findings. Methods: We reviewed the MR finding of six patients with pathologically proved fibrosing inflammatory pseudotumor at the nasopharyngeal wall with respect to the following points: extent, margins, signal intensity and enhancement degree of the lesion; cervical lymphadenopathy and response to steroid therapy. MR findings were correlated with histopathologic findings. Results: All lesions showed ill-defined margins and looked less-likely contour bulging features. The signal intensity of the lesions was hypointense or slightly heterogeneous relative to brain cortex on both T1- and T2-weighted images, and enhancement was weakly homogeneous in all cases. There was no demonstrable cervical lymphadenopathy in all cases. After steroid therapy, the lesions showed decreased extent and weaker enhancement in three patients. Histopathologic findings showed high degree of polymorphous inflammatory cellular infiltration with underlying significant reactive fibrosis. Conclusion: Fibrotic inflammatory pseudotumors involving nasopharynx are very rare, and can mimic malignancy. MR imaging showed ill-defined margins, hypointensity or slightly heterogenous signal intensity on T2-weighted image and weak enhancement. There was no significant cervical lymphadenopathy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

To remove toluene and methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) through adsorption, a honeycomb that is 60 cm in diameter and 40 cm in length was manufactured using ceramic paper as supporting material for adsorbents. Then, a mixture of Y type and ZSM-5 type zeolites with a ratio of 7:3 was impregnated on the surface of the honeycomb. By drying the impregnated material, the honeycomb adsorption rotor (HAR) was successfully manufactured. The amount of zeolites impregnated in the HAR was calculated to be 28 wt% and the peaks of the X-ray diffraction pattern of HAR were identical to those of the two kinds of zeolite powders. The small reduction in the BET surface area resulted from the reduction of mesopores while there was little reduction of micropores smaller than 100 nm, which plays a main role in the adsorptive separation of VOCs. Equilibrium adsorption for toluene and MEK of the HAR was measured 3.6 wt% and 3.3 wt%, respectively, at partial pressure of 0.2 mmHg. The experimental curves of equilibrium adsorption amount fitted well to the calculated curve by the Langmuir model; the interpretation of the breakthrough curve using material balances agreed with the test results. With 3 rph HAR rotation speed, 1.2 m/s face velocity, and 360 ppmv toluene and MEK inlet concentration, the rotary adsorption system showed average outlet concentrations of 18 ppmv and 14 ppmv, respectively, indicating removal efficiency was higher than 95%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

: BackgroundRelatively few reports are available on dural arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) accompanied by posterior fossa hemorrhage. We now report upon two such cases and discuss the differential diagnosis and imaging findings.: Case descriptionA 36-year-old man was admitted after experiencing sudden headache. Computerized tomography (CT) showed vermian and fourth ventricular hematoma, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed an abnormal signal void. Angiography demonstrated a dural AVF in the region of foramen magnum. The second case, a 57-year-old man, was also admitted for the evaluation of headache. CT scan revealed tentorial subdural, subarachnoid and vermian hemorrhage. MRI showed vermian hematoma and an abnormal signal void below the tentorium. Angiography demonstrated a dural AVF in the tentorium.The first case underwent transarterial embolization, after which the dural AVF disappeared completely. The second case underwent craniotomy immediately after failure of endovascular therapy. Postoperative angiography demonstrated no remaining dural AVF.: ConclusionDural AVF should be considered as a causative lesion in cases with posterior fossa hemorrhage with no other definitive cause. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Initial attempt of endovascular treatment (EVT) for spinal dural arteriovenous fistula (SDAVF) is preferred because of concurrent diagnosis and treatment. However, outcomes following further treatment with initial EVT are not well studied. We retrospectively reviewed 71 patients with SDAVF to evaluate treatment outcomes of SDAVF after an initial EVT attempt. Pretreatment and posttreatment functional states were assessed by the Aminoff-Logue scale (ALS). In the case of incomplete occlusion or recurrence, overall outcomes after further treatments were compared. Of the 71 patients, 56 underwent initial EVT. Complete occlusion was achieved by initial EVT in 37 of 56 patients (66.1%). Multiple feeders were more frequently observed in patients with incomplete occlusion than complete occlusion after initial EVT (73.7% vs. 27%, P < 0.001). Among 19 patients with incomplete occlusion upon initial EVT, 14 underwent additional surgery, 13 of whom (92.9%) obtained improved or stationary functional outcomes. Functional improvement was not observed in patients who had repeated EVT or follow-up without further treatment. Recurrence was observed in 8 of 37 patients with complete occlusion upon initial EVT. Additional surgery achieved improved functional outcomes in cases of incomplete occlusion of SDAVF after the initial EVT attempt or recurrence rather than repeated EVT or follow-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, pentavalent metal ions of Nb or Ta are doped in the Fe sites of La0.6Sr0.4FeO3−δ (LSFO), and the doping effects on the redox stability and electrochemical properties of LSFO are investigated. Nb‐ or Ta‐doped LSFO is synthesized by a citric acid‐based sol–gel process and solid‐state reaction. The doping of metal ions in LSFO is confirmed by powder XRD and Rietveld refinements. The oxidation states of the doped metal ions are also confirmed by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. In a stability test in a reducing atmosphere of H2, the undoped LSFO shows structural deterioration, whereas the doping of pentavalent metal ions leads to an enhancement in the structural stability of LSFO. Electrical conductivity measurements show that the LSFO compounds with 10 mol % Nb or Ta show the highest conductivity value under conditions of air or H2. Long‐term stability tests show that all the metal‐doped LSFO are much more stable than LSFO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recurrence is one of the concerns even after successful endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms. We sought to determine the critical aneurysm volume and risk factors related to aneurysmal stability in patients undergoing coil embolization of intracranial aneurysms. Aneurysm volume and follow-up imaging data were retrieved in 3042 patients with 3530 aneurysms who were treated with endovascular coil embolization from January 2006 to October 2016. We analyzed the anatomic outcome in relation to aneurysm volume and determined the critical aneurysm volume favoring coil embolization. Recanalization rates were 2.8%, 6.3%, 19.4%, and 67.4% in each group with aneurysm volume of <10, 10–100, 100–1000, and >1000 mm3, respectively. When we investigated the 100–1000 mm3 group, the recanalization rate remarkably increased at 500 mm3 (16.4% vs. 57.5%, P < 0.0001; odds ratio [OR], 6.968; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.562–13.631). In the entire cohort, recanalization rates were significantly different between aneurysm volume of <500 and >500 mm3 (7.2% vs. 62.9%, respectively; P < 0.0001; OR, 21.848; 95% CI, 13.944–34.235). In aneurysm volumes of >500 mm3, the location was a significant prognostic factor for long-term stability (posterior circulation vs. anterior circulation; OR, 4.737; 95% CI, 1.275–17.602; P = 0.020). In our series of cerebral aneurysms treated with coil embolization, 500 mm3 was found to be the critical volume determining stability after coil embolization. Large volume aneurysms in the posterior circulation were especially prone to recanalization after coiling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: Although the role of wall shear stress (WSS) in the initiation, growth, and rupture of intracranial aneurysms has been well studied, its influence on aneurysm recurrence after endovascular treatment requires further investigation. We aimed to compare WSS at necks of recurrent and nonrecurrent aneurysms.Methods: Nine recurrent coil-embolized aneurysms were identified and matched with nine nonrecurrent aneurysms. Patient-specific vessel geometries reconstructed from follow-up 3-D time-of-flight magnetic resonance angiography were analyzed using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. Absolute WSS and the percentage of abnormally low and high WSS at the aneurysm neck compared to the near artery were measured.Results: The median percentage of abnormal WSS at the aneurysm neck was 49.3% for recurrent and 34.7% for nonrecurrent aneurysms (P = .011). The area under the receiver-operating-characteristic curve for distinguishing these aneurysms according to the percentage of abnormal WSS was .86 (95% CI .62 to .98). The optimal cut-off value of 45.1% resulted in a sensitivity and a specificity of 88.89% (95% CI 51.8% to 99.7%).Conclusion: Our findings indicate that necks of recurrent aneurysms are exposed to abnormal WSS to a larger extent. Abnormal WSS may serve as a metric to distinguish them from nonrecurrent aneurysms with CFD simulations a priori. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Self-expandable stents have enabled endovascular treatment of wide-necked aneurysms (ordinarily viewed as technically prohibitive), with favorable outcomes. However, the impact of stent type on occlusive stability has not been adequately investigated. In small-sized unruptured saccular aneurysms, we generated estimates of stent-assisted coil embolization outcomes during follow-up monitoring. Stent type and other risk factors linked to recanalization were analyzed.Methods: A cohort of 286 patients harboring 312 small-sized unruptured aneurysms (< 10 mm) was subjected to mid-term and extended follow-up monitoring after stent-assisted coiling. Three types of stents (Enterprise, 192; Neuroform, 27; LVIS, 93) were deployed in this population; all medical records and radiologic data of which were reviewed. Mid-term recanalization rates and related risk factors were assessed using binary logistic regression analysis.Results: A total of 49 aneurysms (15.7%) displayed recanalization at 6 months postembolization, with 34 and 15 instances of minor and major recanalization, respectively. Multivariate analysis indicated that wide-necked aneurysms (> 4 mm) (HR = 2.362; p = 0.017), incomplete occlusion at time of coiling (HR = 2.949; p = 0.002), and stent type (p = 0.048) were significant factors in mid-term recanalization, whereas hypertension (p = 0.095) and packing density ≤ 30% (p = 0.213) fell short of statistical significance. Compared with Enterprise (HR = 2.828) or Neuroform (HR = 4.206) stents, outcomes proved more favorable with use of LVIS.Conclusions: Above findings demonstrate that in addition to occlusive status at time of coil embolization and neck size, stent type may affect follow-up outcomes of stent-assisted coil embolization in small-sized aneurysms. LVIS (vs Enterprise or Neuroform stents) performed best during follow-up monitoring in terms of limiting recanalization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flow-electrode capacitive deionization (FCDI) is a desalination process designed to overcome the limited desalination capacity of conventional CDI systems due to their fixed electrodes. Such a FCDI cell system is comprised of a current collector, freestanding ion-exchange membrane (IEM), gasket, and spacer for flowing saline water. To simplify the cell system, in this study we combined the membrane and spacer into a single unit, by coating the IEM on a porous ceramic structure that acts as the spacer. The combination of membrane with the porous structure avoids the use of costly freestanding IEM. Furthermore, the FCDI system can be readily scaled up by simply inserting the IEM-coated porous structures in between the channels for flow electrodes. However, coating the IEM on such porous ceramic structures can cause a sudden drop in the treatment capacity, if the coated IEM penetrates the ceramic pores and prevents these pores from acting as saline flow channels. To address this issue, we blocked the larger microscale pores on the outer surface with SiO 2 and polymeric multilayers. Thus, the IEM is coated only onto the top surface of the porous structure, while the internal pores remain empty to function as water channels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We herein report the synthesis of electrolyte-filled activated carbon (AC) coated with an ion-conducting polymer (AC-N) to achieve a electrode material exhibiting enhanced capacitive properties. The successful formation of the polymer layer was confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis. In addition, electrochemical characterization was performed by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) at a range of concentrations (i.e., 0.25, 0.5, and 0.75 M NaCl or Na 2 SO 4 ). The specific capacitance obtained for the 0.75 M Na 2 SO 4 -filled AC-N was 13.5% higher than the bare AC-N at a scan rate of 100 mV/s, while the interfacial resistance was reduced by 94.6%. We therefore expect that the electrolyte-filled AC reported herein can improve the performance of the electrosorption based system by reducing cell resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Stent-assisted coil embolization (SAC) is one of the treatment options for patients with intracranial aneurysms. The purpose of this study was to assess clinical outcomes of patients who underwent coil embolization for acutely ruptured aneurysms without antiplatelet premedication. Methods A total of 449 patients with acutely ruptured aneurysms underwent endovascular treatment without antiplatelet premedication between April 2006 and October 2015. Among them, 55 patients underwent SAC (SAC group) and 394 underwent coiling without stent assistance (non-SAC group). Periprocedural complications and clinical outcomes at postictal 6 months were compared between the 2 groups. Results The rate of hemorrhagic complications showed no significant difference (SAC group vs. non-SAC group, 9.1% vs. 4.8%). Although procedural thromboembolism occurred more frequently in the SAC group (25.5% vs. 12.4%; P = 0.01), poor clinical outcomes (modified Rankin scale score ≥3) were comparable (30.9% vs. 22.1%). In the multivariate analysis, Hunt-Hess grade (odds ratio [OR] = 4.22; P < 0.001), hemorrhagic complications (OR = 4.01; P = 0.018), and age (OR = 1.04, P = 0.001) were independent predictors of poor clinical outcomes, but stent-assisted coil embolization and procedural thromboembolism were not. Conclusions Although procedure-related thromboembolism occurred more frequently, comparable treatment outcomes could be achieved with antiplatelet premedication-free SAC in patients with acutely ruptured aneurysms. The use of stents and thromboembolic complications were not significant risk factors for poor clinical outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to explore the utility of arterial spin labeling perfusion-weighted imaging (ASL-PWI) in patients with suspected seizures in acute settings. A total of 164 patients who underwent ASL-PWI for suspected seizures in acute settings (with final diagnoses of seizure [n = 129], poststroke seizure [n = 18], and seizure mimickers [n = 17]), were included in this retrospective study. Perfusion abnormality was analyzed for: (1) pattern, (2) multifocality, and (3) atypical distribution against vascular territories. Perfusion abnormality was detected in 39% (50/129) of the seizure patients, most (94%, 47/50) being the hyperperfusion pattern. Of the patients with perfusion abnormality, multifocality or hemispheric involvement and atypical distribution against vascular territory were revealed in 46% (23/50) and 98% (49/50), respectively. In addition, seizures showed characteristic features including hyperperfusion (with or without non-territorial distribution) on ASL-PWI, thus differentiating them from poststroke seizures or seizure mimickers. In patients in whom seizure focus could be localized on both EEG and ASL-PWI, the concordance rate was 77%. The present study demonstrates that ASL-PWI can provide information regarding cerebral perfusion status in patients with seizures in acute settings and has the potential to be used as a non-invasive imaging tool to identify the cerebral perfusion in patients with seizures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although there is great versatility of ultrasound (US) technologies in the real clinical field, one main technical challenge is the compromising of high quality of echo properties and size engineering of ultrasound contrast agents (UCAs); a high echo property is offset by reducing particle size. Herein, a new strategy for overcoming the dilemma by devising chemical gas (CO 2 ) generating carbonate copolymer nanoparticles (Gas-NPs), which are clearly distinguished from the conventional gas-encapsulated micro-sized UCAs. More importantly, Gas-NPs could be readily engineered to strengthen the desirable in vivo physicochemical properties for nano-sized drug carriers with higher tumor targeting ability, as well as the high quality of echo properties for tumor-targeted US imaging. In tumor-bearing mice, anticancer drug-loaded Gas-NPs showed the desirable theranostic functions for US-triggered drug delivery, even after i.v. injection. In this regard, and as demonstrated in the aforementioned study, our technology could serve a highly effective platform in building theranostic UCAs with great sophistication and therapeutic applicability in tumor-targeted US imaging and US-triggered drug delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We retrospectively analyzed our experience with time-staged gamma knife stereotactic radiosurgery (GKS) in treating large arteriovenous malformation(AVM)s;≥ 10 cm3). Methods: Forty-five patients who underwent time-staged GKS (2-stage, n = 37;3-stage,n = 8) between March 1998 and December 2011 were included. The mean volume treated was 20.42±6.29 cm3 (range, 10.20–38.50 cm3). Obliteration rates of AVMs and the associated complications after GKS were evaluated. Results: Mean AVM volume (and median marginal dose) at each GKS session in the 37 patients who underwent 2-stage GKS was 19.67±6.08 cm3 (13 Gy) at session 1 and 6.97±6.92 cm3 (17 Gy) at session 2. The median interval period was 39 months. After follow-up period of 37 months, the complete obliteration rate was 64.9%. The mean AVM volume (and median marginal dose) at each GKS session in the 8 patients who underwent 3-stage GKS was 23.90±6.50 cm3 (12.25 Gy), 19.43±7.46 cm3 (13.5 Gy), 7.48±6.86 cm3 (15.5 Gy) at session 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The median interval duration between each GKS session was 37.5 and 38 months, respectively. After a median follow-up period of 47.5 months, 5 patients (62.5%) achieved complete obliteration. Postradiosurgical hemorrhage developed in 5 patients (11.1%) including one case of major bleeding and 4 cases of minor bleeding. No patient suffered from clinically symptomatic radiation necrosis following radiation. Conclusion: Time-staged GKS could be an effective and safe treatment option in the management of large AVMs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose Transarterial access to dural arteriovenous fistulas (dAVFs) has been popularized by device improvements and novel embolic materials. However, this approach is limited in the cavernous sinus (CS) because of related complications and low cure rates. Although a transvenous approach, via ipsilateral inferior petrosal sinus (IPS), may be more suitable for CS-dAVFs, microcatheter delivery is occasionally impeded by ipsilateral IPS occlusion. Described herein is a microguidewire looping method to breach such occlusions, thus enabling access to CS lesions. Methods A microcatheter is initially advanced into the IPS orifice, and a microguidewire is passed into the occluded IPS. Looping is easily achieved through the resistance met. With greater support of the guiding catheter, the microguidewire (still looped) is then advanced into the CS. When nearing the CS, the microcatheter is further reinforced, and it is navigated along the microguidewire into the CS. Results This technique was applied in 10 instances of CS-dAVF with ipsilateral IPS occlusion, enabling ipsilateral access to the CS. In eight cases (80%), microdevice advancement was successful, culminating in effective transvenous coil embolization. Clinical and radiologic outcomes in all patients were excellent, with no delayed post-procedural cranial palsies. Conclusion This microguidewire looping technique enables safe and effective entry into the CS during transvenous coil embolization of CS-dAVFs with ipsilateral IPS occlusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To estimate long-term durability in coiled aneurysms completely occluded at 6-month follow-up imaging, focusing on late recanalization rate and the risk factors involved.Methods: A cohort of 620 patients harbouring 698 completely occluded coiled aneurysms at 6-month follow-up was subjected to extended monitoring (mean, 24.5 ± 7.9 months). Cumulative recanalization rate and related risk factors were analysed using Cox proportional hazards regression and Kaplan-Meier product-limit estimator.Results: Forty-three aneurysms (6.2 %) occluded completely at 6-months displayed recanalization (3.02 % per aneurysm-year) during continued surveillance (1425.5 aneurysm-years), with 26 (60.5 %) surfacing in another 6 months, 15 (34.9 %) within 18 months and 2 (4.6 %) within 30 months. Cumulative survival rates without recanalization were significantly lower in subjects with aneurysms >7 mm (p = 0.014), with bifurcation aneurysms (p = 0.009) and with subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) at presentation (p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis indicated that aneurysms >7 mm (HR = 2.37, p = 0.02) and bifurcation aneurysms (HR = 2.70, p = 0.03) were significant factors in late recanalization, whereas a link with SAH at presentation was marginal (HR = 1.92, p = 0.06) and stent placement fell short of statistical significance (HR = 0.47; p = 0.12).Conclusion: Most (93.8 %) coiled aneurysms showing complete occlusion at 6 months post-procedure were stable in long-term monitoring. However, aneurysms >7 mm and bifurcation aneurysms were predisposed to late recanalization.Key Points: • Most coiled aneurysms showing complete occlusion at 6 months were stable. • Forty-three aneurysms (6.2 %) occluded completely at 6-month follow-up displayed late recanalization. • Late recanalization rate was 3.02 % per aneurysm-year during follow-up of 1425.5 aneurysm-years. • Aneurysms over 7 mm and bifurcation aneurysms were predisposed to late recanalization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fission product inventory for a loss-of-coolant accident (LOCA) analysis is generally evaluated based on the average burnup of the fuel at the end of life regardless of the variation of the actual burnup with time. In this study, we analyze the variation of the fission product inventory based on the accident occurrence cycle and the degree of fuel meltdown, which reflect the axial burnup of the fuel at the beginning, middle, and end of the cycle (BOC, MOC, and EOC). The fuel assembly for the Hanul unit 6, which is an OPR1000-type pressurized water reactor (PWR) in Korea, was chosen as an analysis model for the source-term assessment. The burnup cross-section library was generated using the TRITON module of the SCALE6.1 code system, and the depletion calculations were carried out using ORIGEN-ARP. The first scenario, which is referred to as CASE (I), is applied with an average burnup at the EOC, which is a commonly recommended conservative assumption in accident analyses. The CASE (II) scenario includes various cases that consider the accident occurrence cycle and fuel meltdown from the top to the bottom of the core at the BOC, MOC, and EOC. As a result, the inventory of the main nuclides gradually decreased as the reactor core operation was performed. In addition, the activity intensity for the main fission products of CASE (II) was shown to be higher than that of CASE (I) in the range above a fuel meltdown of approximately 30%. Therefore, this study concludes that not all of the results obtained by the CASE (I) assumption are guaranteed to be more conservative than those obtained by CASE (II). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A high cervical dural arteriovenous fistula (dAVF) is relatively rare and tends to have different features, as compared with a thoracolumbar dAVF. Here, we report a case involving a complex AVF located at the craniocervical junction that was fed by the dural and pial arteries, combined with a contralateral dAVF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Si nanoparticles were synthesized by inductively coupled plasma and a specially designed double tube reactor. By injection of large amount of PH 3 during the synthesis, the effects of phosphorous incorporation on their microstructures and chemical binding environments were investigated. Injection of PH 3 gas during the synthesis resulted in a change from crystalline to amorphous phase, a reduction of particle size as well as a process yield. All of the above results were attributed to a lower plasma density when higher amount of PH 3 was injected. From energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, secondary ion mass spectrometry, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis, it was revealed that P was doped in Si nanoparticles. However, secondary phases such as P 4 and P 2 O 5 were formed as amorphous ones in nano-scale when a relatively large amount of PH 3 was injected. In addition, those nanoparticles were applied as an active material in the lithium-ion battery's anode. Unexpectedly, amorphous Si nanoparticles with secondary phases showed improved electrochemical properties. P-doping in Si nanoparticles could not directly advance cycling performance by improvement of electrical conductivity of Si nanoparticles. It was rather assumed that a secondary phase influenced and enhanced electrochemical properties by additional capacity due to a formation of Li 3 P and forming an effective buffer against large volumetric change of Si nanoparticles during the charge/discharge. The initial reversible capacity of amorphous Si nanoparticles synthesized with 100 sccm of PH 3 flow rate was 2113 mAh g − 1 , and that at the 100th cycle was still about 1000 mAh g − 1 , which was twice as high as that of Si nanoparticles synthesized without PH 3 injection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A uniform and compact hole blocking layer is necessary for high efficient perovskite-based thin film solar cell. In this study, we fabricated TiO 2 compact layers by using a simple dip-coating method in contrast to the widely used techniques such as spin coating and spray pyrolysis. In this study, we optimized the surface morphologies of dip-coating based TiO 2 compact layers by controlling the concentration of Ti precursor solution diluted in ethanol. The analyses of devices performance characteristics showed that thickness and surface morphologies of different TiO 2 compact layers played a critical role in affecting the efficiencies. The dip-coating route to prepare TiO 2 compact layers employed in this study is more amenable to fabricate the large area device and less expensive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing demand for instant real-time ultrasound (US) imaging of a specific organ, target-specific and long-circulating ultrasound contrast agents are of special interest. A new species of echogenic hyaluronic acid nanoparticles is presented as an ultralong-acting, liver-specific, US contrast agent that is distinct from conventional gas-filled microbubbles. Using an oil-in-water (O/W) emulsification method, bioinert and hydrophobic perfluoropentane (PFP) is encapsulated as an ultrasound gas precursor into hyaluronic acid nanoparticles (HANPs) using hydrophobic interactions. HANPs are formulated by self-assembly, with amphiphilic hyaluronic acid-5β-cholanic acid (HA-CA) conjugating in aqueous conditions. The resulting echogenic PFP-encapsulated HANPs (Echo-NPs) show solid nanostructures, differentiated from core-empty conventional microbubbles, and exhibiting outstanding physical properties as an ultrasound contrast agent. They are more stable and robust echogenic solid bodies with an in vivo favorable hydrodynamic size and because PFPs vaporize gradually, their expansion process is very slow in body conditions. After several systemic circulations, echo-NPs generated intense and ultralong echo signals for US imaging at the target site. The echogenic properties of Echo-NPs show a significantly increased half-life and echo persistence, compared with conventional microbubbles. The results clearly show that echo-NPs outperform conventional microbubbles in terms of both physical and echogenic in vitro and in vivo properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Intracranial aneurysm (IA) is significantly more prevalent in patients with coarctation of the aorta or bicuspid aortic valve than in the general population, suggesting a common pathophysiology connecting IA and aortopathy. Here, we analyzed echocardiographic aortic root dimension (ARD) in patients with IA to confirm this possibility. Methods: From January 2008 to December 2010, 260 consecutive patients with IA who were admitted to our institution for coil embolization or for acute stroke management and who also underwent echocardiography were enrolled. We hypothesized that patients with large, ruptured, or multiple IAs are more likely to harbor co-prevalent aortopathy as measured by ARD compared to patients with small, isolated, unruptured IAs. Eccentric group was defined as patients aged <55 years with at least one ruptured aneurysm, an aneurysm ≥7 mm in size, or multiple aneurysms; the remainder was classified into a non-eccentric group. Clinical, angiographic, and echocardiographic findings of the two groups were compared. Results: ARD was significantly larger in the eccentric group than in the non-eccentric group (P = 0.049), and the difference was confirmed by multivariable analysis (P = 0.02). Subgroup analysis of patients aged <55 years showed similar result for ARD (P = 0.03), whereas hypertension was more associated with the non-eccentric group (P = 0.01). In addition, height was inversely related to aneurysm size after adjustment for age, sex, weight, ARD, smoking status, and number of aneurysms (P = 0.004). Conclusions: A certain group of IA patients share a common intrinsic wall defect with aortopathy. Shared neural crest cell origin may give rise to this phenomenon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Herein, we present the low-temperature solid-phase combustion synthesis of tantalum carbide (TaC), TaC/tantalum silicide (TaSi2), and TaC/tantalum boride (TaB) nanoparticles by the silicothermic reduction of potassium fluorotantalate (K2TaF7) in the presence of carbon, boron, and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE, 1 [1] BJH, Barrett–Joyner–Halenda; HRTEM, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy; MMC, metal matrix composite; PFTE, polyfluorotetraethylene; PTFE; polytetrafluoroethylene; RF, radio frequency; SAED, selected area electron diffraction pattern; T c , combustion temperature; TEM, transmission electron microscopy; U c , combustion velocities; XRD, X-ray diffractometer. (C2F4) n ). The temperature–time profiles of the combustion wave were measured by thermocouples and used to calculate the combustion parameters: temperature and wave velocity. The flame temperature was found to increase with the concentration of PTFE. Using high resolution transmission electron microscopy, a homogeneous distribution of highly crystalline nanoparticles was observed. The thermal–kinetic activation energy, the heat released during each of the individual reactions, and the chemical mechanism of the overall combustion process are discussed with respect to the final products. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Tantalum nitride nanoparticles were produced from a (K2TaF7 +5NaN3) exothermic mixture under the combustion regime. The effects of the K2TaF7/NaN3 ratio and KF and NH4F concentrations on the combustion parameters, product composition, and size of the tantalum nitride particles were studied. Depending on the synthesis conditions, the combustion temperature was maintained in the 700–1200°C range, resulting in hexagonal ε-TaN, TaN0.8, and Ta2N phases. The dominant phases were TaN and TaN0.8 in the 1000–1200°C range, whereas only the Ta2N phase was present in the 700–100°C range. Pure-phase cubic tantalum nitride (δ-TaN) was produced with 4.0mol of NH4F at a combustion temperature of ~800°C. Under controlled reaction conditions, the size of the tantalum nitride particles was about 10–50nm. We also found that during the synthesis, the stainless steel tube located inside of the reaction mixture was partially coated with fine TaN crystals. The mechanism of the combustion process is discussed in regards to the experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The EMRAS-2 Urban Areas Working Group, which is supported by the IAEA, has designed a variety of accidental scenarios to test and improve the capabilities of the models used for an evaluation of radioactive contamination in an urban environment. A variety of models including a Korean model, METRO-K, are used for predictive results on the hypothetical scenarios. This paper describes the predictive results of METRO-K for the hypothetical scenarios designed in the Working Group. The external dose resulting from the air contamination of Co-60 was evaluated, and its contribution was analyzed with time as a function of the location of a receptor and precipitation conditions at the time of the contamination event. As a result, the external doses showed a distinctive difference with the locations to be evaluated and the precipitation conditions. Moreover, the contribution of contaminated surfaces for external doses was strongly dependent on the locations to be evaluated and the precipitation conditions. These results will provide essential information to assist the decision-making of appropriate countermeasures in an emergency situation of a radioactively contaminated urban environment. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We studied the purification of metallurgical grade Si from solutions of K2SiF6 in fluoride melts using a molten salt electrorefining process at 700 °C. Electrorefining close to the deposition potential gave dense, coherent, and well-adherent deposits. It was shown that the deposition rate and microstructure of Si strongly depend on the process temperature. Deposited polycrystalline silicon has a well defined rod shape and crooked structure that varies with current density. The anodic dissolution rate is affected by the initial concentrations of K2SiF6 and the applied current density. The results of an inductively coupled plasma (ICP) analysis indicated that recovered silicon fiber deposits with purities greater than 99.98% can be obtained using the developed technique. The morphology of the electrodeposited silicon on silver substrates is discussed in the context of a cathodic reaction on the electrode surface, and a comprehensive explanation of the purification mechanism with salt removal is provided. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Introduction: Intra-arterial (IA) thrombolytic intervention for acute thrombosis has been challenged due to the risk of bleeding during the endovascular treatment of ruptured aneurysms. We present the results of IA tirofiban infusion for thromboembolic complications during coil embolization in patients with ruptured intracranial aneurysms. Methods: Thromboembolic events requiring thrombolytic intervention occurred in 39 (10.5%) cases during coil embolization of 372 consecutive ruptured intracranial aneurysms. Maximal aneurysm diameters of 39 patients (mean age, 54.7±13.2 years; 23 female, 16 male) ranged from 2.1 to 13.1mm (mean, 6.6±3.0mm). The anterior communicating artery was the most common site (n =13), followed by the middle cerebral artery (n =9) and the posterior communicating artery (n =7). In this series, we used intracranial stents in 10 patients during the procedure. Superselective IA tirofiban infusion through a microcatheter was performed to resolve thrombi and emboli. We assessed the efficacy and safety of IA tirofiban infusion in patients with ruptured aneurysms. Results: Intraarterially administered tirofiban doses ranged from 0.25 to 1.25mg (mean, 0.71±0.26mg). Effective thrombolysis or recanalization was achieved in 34 patients (87.2%), and three patients (7.7%) suffered distal migration of clots with partial recanalization. The rest (5.1%) had no recanalization. Nonconsequent intracerebral hemorrhage occurred in two patients (5.1%) after the procedure. Thromboemboli-related cerebral infarction developed in eight patients, and only two patients remained infarction related disabilities. Conclusion: IA tirofiban infusion seems to be efficacious and safe for thrombolysis during coil embolization in patients with ruptured intracranial aneurysms. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Polymeric nanoparticles, capable of encapsulating imaging agents and therapeutic drugs, have significant advantages for simultaneous diagnosis and therapy. Nonetheless, improvements in the loading contents of the active agents are needed to achieve enhanced imaging and effective therapeutic outcomes. Aiming to make these improvements, a hydrotropic micelle (HM) was explored to encapsulate superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) as the magnetic resonance (MR) imaging agent and paclitaxel (PTX) as the hydrophobic anticancer drug. Owing to its hydrotropic inner core with hydrophobic nature, HM could effectively encapsulate both of PTX and SPION via the simple dialysis method. The hydrodynamic size of HM increased from 68 to 178nm after physical encapsulation of SPION and PTX. Transmission electron microscopy analysis of HM bearing SPION and PTX (HM-SPION-PTX) revealed a spherical morphology with SPION clusters in the micelle cores. The micelles released PTX in a sustained manner. The bare HM and HM-SPION showed no toxicity to SCC7 cells, whereas HM-PTX and HM-SPION-PTX showed dose-dependent cytotoxicity that was lower than free PTX. HM-SPION-PTX exhibited 8.1-fold higher T 2 relaxivity than HM-SPION, implying potential of HM-SPION-PTX as the contrast agent for MR imaging. When systemically administered to tumor-bearing mice, HM-SPION-PTX was effectively accumulated at the tumor site, allowing its detection using MR imaging and effective therapy. Overall, these results suggested that HM-SPION-PTX is a promising candidate for combined diagnosis and treatment of cancer. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In order to investigate the transport behavior and rice uptake of radiostrontium and radiocesium in flooded rice fields, lysimeter experiments with two paddy soils were performed in a greenhouse. A solution containing 85Sr and 137Cs was applied in two different ways — being mixed with the top soil 27d before transplanting or being dropped to the surface water 1d after transplanting. Rice uptake was quantified with two kinds of transfer factor — TFm (dimensionless) and TFa (m2 kg−1-dry) for the pre- and post-transplanting depositions, respectively. For brown rice, the TFm values of 85Sr and 137Cs differed between the soils by factors of 2 (1.6×10−2 and 2.5×10−2) and 7 (2.2×10−2 and 1.5×10−1), respectively. Corresponding factors by the TFa values were 2 (2.5×10−4 and 4.4×10−4) for 85Sr and 3 (1.1×10−3 and 2.9×10−3) for 137Cs. Straws had several times higher TFm and TFa values of 85Sr than of 137Cs. The surface-water concentrations were substantially higher for the TFa than for the TFm, indicating the possibility of a much higher plant-base uptake for the TFa. In the TFa soils, 137Cs and, to a lesser degree, 85Sr were severely localized towards the soil surface, probably leading to an increased root uptake. The activity loss due to plant uptake and water percolation was generally inconsiderable. Time-dependent Kd values of 85Sr measured in a parallel experiment ranged from 20 to 170, whereas 137Cs had much higher Kd values. The use of TFa values instead of TFm values turned out to be a reasonable approach to the evaluation of a vegetation-period deposition. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The effect of Si content in Al–Si alloy powder with NaOH on H2 production was investigated. The total amount of H2 produced decreased as Si content increased, which is inconsistent with the results predicted by the chemical reaction. Si caused a delay in the rate of H2 production. Energy dispersive spectrometry showed that a large amount of unreacted Si remained in the matrix, and the unreacted fraction increased as the Si content increased. As the evolution reaction of Al and Al–Si alloys is exothermic, the temperature of all the specimens increased. Si addition reduced the hydroxide removal rate, which decreased the average H2 production rate. The initiation time for H2 evolution depends on the elimination rate of the oxide film formed during production of the powder. On increasing the Si content, SiO2 was formed, which is harder to eliminate than Al2O3; this delayed the initiation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Carotid artery stenting (CAS) has been accepted as a relatively safe and effective treatment modality for patients with symptomatic severe carotid stenosis. We report a rare case of 75-year-old male with spontaneous peritoneal and perirenal hemorrhage following carotid angioplasty with stent. Because this intraabdominal hemorrhage can cause delayed diagnosis and treatment due to vague symptoms and the lack of suspicion of the hemorrhage, and can induce fatal condition, physicians should be aware that the abdominal hemorrhage could occur as a rare but serious complication after CAS without puncture site problems or iatrogenic injury. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper specifically discusses an atmospheric dispersion modeling and health risk assessment for Cs-137 to assess the potential and actual effects on human health from an inhalation event due to a radiological terrorist attack in the Seoul metropolitan area, Korea. The source term was assumed to be 5TBq of Cs-137, introduced into the central part of Seoul’s metropolitan area by a terrorist attack. Atmospheric dispersion models can be used to support the decision making and risk assessments when terrorist attacks have happened in an urban area. The concepts of Gaussian plume modeling and computational fluid dynamics modeling were used to calculate the Cs-137 concentration in the air. Mortality risk and morbid risk coefficients for the inhalation of contaminated air were used to assess the human health risk. The mortality and morbidity are 1.12E−2 and 1.64E−2, respectively in case of the Gaussian plume, while 6.23E−3 and 9.13E−3 in case of the computational fluid dynamics model. The results of the modeling are dependent on the terror scenarios and dispersion models. Accordingly, the optimization process is needed for final decision making. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper specifically discusses a water quality modeling and health risk assessment for cesium-137 to assess the potential and actual effects on human health from drinking water contaminated by a radiological terrorist attack in the Seoul metropolitan area, Korea. With respect to the source term caused by a terrorist attack, it was assumed that 50TBq of cesium-137 was introduced into the Paldang Lake which is a single water resource for the Seoul metropolitan area. EFDC (Environmental Fluid Dynamics Code) model was used to calculate the hydrodynamic and water quality for the model domain, Paldang Lake. Mortality risk and morbid risk coefficients caused by the ingestion of tap water were used to assess a human health risk due to cesium-137. The transport of cesium-137 in the Paldang water system was mainly dependent on the flow streamlines and the effect of the dilution from the other branches. The mortality and morbidity risks due to the drinking water contamination by cesium-137 were 4.77×10−7 and 6.92×10−7, respectively. Accordingly, it is very important to take appropriate countermeasures when radiological terrorist attacks have occurred at water resources to prevent radiological risks by radionuclides. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The authors present an extremely rare case of kissing aneurysms associated with fenestration of the distal basilar artery. The two aneurysms were successfully treated with endovascular coil embolization. We provide two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) angiographic features of the kissing aneurysms, and procedural details of coil embolization. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of kissing aneurysms at the fenestrated distal basilar artery. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: ZSM-5 zeolite membranes for CO2 separation have been synthesized via hydrothermal-treating various porous α-alumina tubes in template reaction mixtures. The effect of each support acted as an Al source in high pH solution during hydrothermal treatment, and of the SiO2 molar ratio in reaction mixtures on the formation of ZSM-5 crystalline layers was investigated. The synthesized membranes were also surface-modified by dip-coating with polymeric silica sol which filled up the intercrystalline voids in order to improve the CO2 separation efficiency. The ZSM-5 zeolite membranes have been evaluated by the CO2/N2 separation factor and permeance measured as a function of the stage cut, the helium sweeping rate, the feed pressure, and the permeation temperature. The maximum separation factor of the ZSM-5 zeolite membrane for a CO2/N2 (50% CO2) gas mixture was about 54.3 at 25°C and 14.9 at 100°C, respectively, and its permeance was 3.6×10−8 mol/m2 sPa. In particular, it was found that the separation factor of the ZSM-5 zeolite membranes were nearly independent of the moisture in the feed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The influence of predictive contamination to agricultural products due to the wet processes as well as dry processes from radioactive air concentration during a nuclear emergency is comprehensively analyzed. The previous dynamic food chain model DYNACON considering Korean agricultural and environmental conditions, in which the initial input parameter was radionuclide concentrations on the ground, is improved so as to evaluate radioactive contamination to agricultural products from either radioactive air concentrations or radionuclide concentrations on the ground. As for the results, wet deposition is a more dominant mechanism than dry deposition in contamination on the ground. While, the contamination levels of agricultural products are strongly dependent on radionuclide and precipitation when the deposition of radionuclides occurs. It means that the contamination levels of agricultural products are determined from which is the more dominant process between deposition on the ground and interception to agricultural plants. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Nodular fasciitis is an unusual benign reactive process of the soft tissues related to the fascia and characterized by fibroblastic proliferation. Clinical findings and radiologic aspects of six cases are described [four computed tomography (CT), two ultrasonography (US), one magnetic resonance (MR)]. They were located in the infrahyoid anterior triangle (n=3), prevertebral space (n=2), and masticator space (n=1). Most of these lesions showed moderate to strong enhancement on CT or MR imaging, and were partially embedded in the adjacent muscle with preservation of smooth margin of the muscle. Most cases showed a benign nature, except one case in the prevertebral space which showed aggressive nature with jugular fossa destruction and intracranial extension. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

: BackgroundThe purpose of this study was to detect differences in regional areas of the corpus callosum (CC) in subjects with early-onset minor depression (dysthymia or depressive personality disorder) and healthy comparison subjects. Based on previous reports that have suggested reduced frontal lobe volume and reduced hemispheric lateralization in the frontal regions of the brain in depression, we hypothesized that the area of the CC that interconnects the frontal regions of the brain, i.e., the genu, will be smaller compared to that of healthy comparison subjects.: MethodsForty female subjects with early-onset dysthymia or depressive personality disorder, as defined by the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-III-R and the Diagnostic Interview for Depressive Personality, respectively, and age- and gender-matched healthy comparison subjects (n = 42) were recruited (age: 21.4 ± 2.1 and 20.9 ± 2.8 years, respectively). All subjects were psychotropic medications-nai¨ve and right-handed. A 1.5T GE Sigma scanner was used to acquire 124 1.5-mm-thick contiguous coronal images. Midsagittal slice images were carefully selected from reconstructed magnetic resonance images both from native and stereotaxic space to measure seven regional areas of the CC.: ResultsThere were significant diagnosis by CC region interactions [F(6,480) = 4.06, p < .001; F(6,480) = 3.30, p = .003, native and stereotaxic space, respectively]. Early-onset minor depression subjects had a 9.9% (native space) and 6.9% (stereotaxic space) smaller genu of the CC compared to the healthy comparison subjects (the Newman-Keuls post hoc test, p = .005 and .019, native and stereotaxic space, respectively). Early-onset minor depression subjects also had a 7.8% smaller posterior midbody relative to the comparison subjects (the Newman-Keuls post hoc test, p = .033) only in the native space. Severity of current depressive symptoms or duration of illness did not correlate with the size of the genu or the posterior midbody parts of the CC.: ConclusionsThese results suggest frontal lobe structural, and possibly functional, abnormalities in the brain in young female adults with a milder spectrum of depression, i.e., DSM-IV early-onset dysthymia or depressive personality disorder. The present findings point out the possible role of frontal lobe abnormality in pathophysiology of early-onset minor depression. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]