Amorphous aluminosilicate scaling characterization in a reverse osmosis membrane

This paper describes the results of experiments performed in a high-recovery system to elucidate the silica scaling phenomenon and characterize the scaling. In this research, cation exchange pretreatment is used to reduce Ca2+, Ba2+, and Mg2+ levels to prevent scaling during subsequent nanofiltration (NF) and reverse osmosis (RO) filtration, in which RO is fed with NF concentrate. In a pilot plant, a series of experiments were carried out at a total (NF + RO) recovery of 91, 94, 96 and 98% with locally available tap water as feed water. Autopsy studies were performed with the RO membranes after each experiment. The fouling layer was studied using SEM-EDX, ATR-FTIR and fouling extraction to determine the structure and the composition of the fouling deposits. A thin dense fouling layer was observed, which covered approximately half of the membrane surface, after operating for 20 days at 91 and 94% recovery. At 96 and 98% recovery, the fouling layer was thicker and completely covered the membrane surface. The scaling layer was mainly composed of Si, Al, Fe and O. The amount of Si increased with increasing recovery. To work at these high recoveries for an extended period, further measures need to be taken to prevent silica scaling

Identifying and Addressing the Needs of Adolescents and Young Adults With Cancer: Summary of an Institute of Medicine Workshop

Cancer is the leading disease-related cause of death in adolescents and young adults (AYAs). This population faces many short- and long-term health and psychosocial consequences of cancer diagnosis and treatment, but many programs for cancer treatment, survivorship care, and psychosocial support do not focus on the specific needs of AYA cancer patients. Recognizing this health care disparity, the National Cancer Policy Forum of the Institute of Medicine convened a public workshop to examine the needs of AYA patients with cancer. Workshop participants identified many gaps and challenges in the care of AYA cancer patients and discussed potential strategies to address these needs. Suggestions included ways to improve access to care for AYAs, to deliver cancer care that better meets the medical and psychosocial needs of AYAs, to develop educational programs for providers who care for AYA cancer survivors, and to enhance the evidence base for AYAs with cancer by facilitating participation in research

Identifying and Addressing the Needs of Adolescents and Young Adults With Cancer: Summary of an Institute of Medicine Workshop

Cancer is the leading disease-related cause of death in adolescents and young adults (AYAs). This population faces many short- and long-term health and psychosocial consequences of cancer diagnosis and treatment, but many programs for cancer treatment, survivorship care, and psychosocial support do not focus on the specific needs of AYA cancer patients. Recognizing this health care disparity, the National Cancer Policy Forum of the Institute of Medicine convened a public workshop to examine the needs of AYA patients with cancer. Workshop participants identified many gaps and challenges in the care of AYA cancer patients and discussed potential strategies to address these needs. Suggestions included ways to improve access to care for AYAs, to deliver cancer care that better meets the medical and psychosocial needs of AYAs, to develop educational programs for providers who care for AYA cancer survivors, and to enhance the evidence base for AYAs with cancer by facilitating participation in research