bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systemic inflammation in acute intermittent porphyria: a case–control study
Authors: Storjord E , Dahl J A , Landsem A , Fure H , Ludviksen J K , Goldbeck-Wood S , Karlsen B O , Berg K S , Mollnes T E , W. Nielsen E , Brekke O-L
Published: November 2016

This study aimed to examine whether acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) is associated with systemic inflammation and whether the inflammation correlates with disease activity. A case–control study with 50 AIP cases and age-, sex- and place of residence-matched controls was performed. Plasma cytokines, insulin and C-peptide were analysed after an overnight fast using multiplex assay. Long pentraxin-3 (PTX3) and complement activation products (C3bc and TCC) were analysed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Urine porphobilinogen ratio (U-PBG, µmol/mmol creatinine), haematological and biochemical tests were performed using routine methods. Questionnaires were used to register AIP symptoms, medication and other diseases. All 27 cytokines, chemokines and growth factors investigated were increased significantly in symptomatic AIP cases compared with controls (P < 0·0004). Hierarchical cluster analyses revealed a cluster with high visfatin levels and several highly expressed cytokines including interleukin (IL)-17, suggesting a T helper type 17 (Th17) inflammatory response in a group of AIP cases. C3bc (P = 0·002) and serum immunoglobulin (Ig)G levels (P = 0·03) were increased significantly in cases with AIP. The U-PBG ratio correlated positively with PTX3 (r = 0·38, P = 0·006), and with terminal complement complex (TCC) levels (r = 0·33, P = 0·02). PTX3 was a significant predictor of the biochemical disease activity marker U-PBG in AIP cases after adjustment for potential confounders in multiple linear regression analyses (P = 0·032). Prealbumin, C-peptide, insulin and kidney function were all decreased in the symptomatic AIP cases, but not in the asymptomatic cases. These results indicate that AIP is associated with systemic inflammation. Decreased C-peptide levels in symptomatic AIP cases indicate that reduced insulin release is associated with enhanced disease activity and reduced kidney function.
A Spatial Real Options Approach for Modeling Land Use Change: Assessing the Potential for Poplar Energy Plantations in Alberta
Authors: Hauer Grant , Luckert M.K. (Marty) , Yemshanov Denys , Unterschultz Jim
Published: November 2016

Land use change models based on historical behavior have proven useful in predicting and understanding determinants of change. Such approaches are not possible where land use change data are absent. In this paper, we develop a normative spatial model that considers option values associated with land conversion between agriculture and forestry and their differing time scales. The model is applied in a case study regarding the potential for a cellulosic biofuel industry in Alberta. Results indicate the importance of future patterns of prices in influencing decisions to switch from agriculture to bioenergy production, and suggest that cellulosic plantations are not likely to prevail over agricultural land uses. Les modèles de changement d'affectation des terres basés sur les comportements historiques se sont avérés utiles pour la prédiction et la compréhension des facteurs de changements. Ces approches sont impossibles là où les données concernant les changements d'affectation des terres sont absentes. Cet article présente un modèle normatif spatial qui tient compte des valeurs d'option associées à la conversion des terres agricoles en terres forestières et à leurs différentes échelles de temps. L'application du modèle se fait dans une étude de cas au sujet du potentiel pour une industrie du biocarburant cellulosique en Alberta. Les résultats montrent l'importance de l'influence des futures structures de prix sur le choix de passer de l'agriculture à la production de bioénergie, et suggèrent que les plantations cellulosiques ne l'emporteront pas sur les affectations agricoles des terres.
Repatriation, Refoulement, Repair
Authors: Collins Erin
Published: November 2016

This article examines Cambodia's immediate, post‐conflict period of sovereign remaking through the lens of refugee containment, circulation and repatriation. The territorial, nation state dimensions of sovereignty are well known. Yet in Cambodia, where sovereign remaking was yoked to a United Nations intervention, a Westphalian basis for sovereign authority is incomplete. Through an analysis of radio broadcasts and bureaucratic papers of the border Khmer Rouge faction, the United Nations Transitional Authority in Cambodia and the State of Cambodia apparatus, this article argues that forced refugee repatriation (refoulement) links biological circulation to geopolitical violence. Where territorial sovereignty separates inside from outside in thick lines on political maps, biopolitical sovereignty inscribes difference on bodies and ecologies, producing inside and outside as categories of racialized difference.
Increased subcortical oligodendroglia‐like cells in pharmacoresistant focal epilepsy in children correlate with extensive epileptogenic zones
Authors: Sakuma Satoru , Halliday William C. , Nomura Ruka , Baba Shiro , Sato Yosuke , Okanari Kazuo , Nakajima Midori , Widjaja Elysa , Boelman Cyrus , Ochi Ayako , Snead O. Carter , Rutka James T. , Drake James , Miller Steven , Otsubo Hiroshi
Published: November 2016

Objective

Cortical resections in epilepsy surgery tend to involve multiple lobes in children, compared to adults, partly due to underlying pathology. Oligodendroglia‐like cells (OLCs) have been observed in surgical specimens from children with pharmacoresistant epilepsy. We hypothesize that OLCs recruit multiple‐lobe epileptogenic zones in pediatric pharmacoresistant focal epilepsy.

Methods

We examined the surgical specimens from 30 children who underwent epilepsy surgery (1.8‐ to 16.9‐years‐old; mean age 9.7 years). Immunohistochemical assays of OLCs were performed using Olig2, which is a marker of OLC. OLC populations in three sites (gray matter, gray–white matter junction, and white matter) were counted. We also performed immunohistochemical staining with neuronal nuclear antigen (NeuN) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) for neuronal and astroglial markers, respectively. NeuN‐ and GFAP‐positive cells were distinguished from OLCs. OLC results were compared with seizure types, scalp and intracranial video–electroencephalography (EEG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), surgical resection area, histopathologic diagnosis, and seizure outcome.

Results

Histopathologic diagnosis consisted of 14 cases of focal cortical dysplasia (FCD; type I; 4, type II; 9, type III; one); 6 cases of oligodendrogliosis; 6 cases of astrocytic gliosis; 2 cases of hyaline protoplasmic astrocytopathy; and 2 cases of tuberous sclerosis. Fifteen children (50%) underwent multiple‐lobe resections after intracranial video‐EEG. There was a positive correlation between the number of resected electrodes and the OLC population in the white matter (correlation coefficient 0.581, p = 0.001) and at the gray–white matter junction– (correlation coefficient 0.426, p = 0.027). OLC populations in both areas were increased significantly in nine children with epileptic spasms (ES) (gray–white matter junction [p = 0.021] and white matter [p = 0.025]), and nine nonfocal ictal scalp EEG findings (gray–white matter junction [p = 0.04] and white matter [p = 0.042]). The OLC population in white matter was significantly increased in children with 11 nonfocal interictal scalp EEG findings (p = 0.01), with 15 multiple‐lobe resections (p = 0.028).

Significance

Pharmacoresistant epilepsy in children with increased OLCs presented with nonfocal epileptiform discharges on scalp EEG and ES, and they required multiple‐lobe resections. We found increased populations of subcortical OLCs in the extensive epileptogenic zone.
Bidirectional Associations Between Newlyweds' Marital Satisfaction and Marital Problems over Time
Authors: Lavner Justin A. , Karney Benjamin R. , Williamson Hannah C. , Bradbury Thomas N.
Published: November 2016

Prevailing views of marital functioning generally adopt the view that marital problems predict decreases in marital satisfaction, but alternative theoretical perspectives raise the possibility that lowered satisfaction can also predict increases in problems. The current study sought to integrate and compare these perspectives by examining the bidirectional cross‐lagged associations between newlyweds' reports of their marital satisfaction and marital problems over the first 4 years of marriage. Using annual assessments from 483 heterosexual newlywed couples, we find evidence for problem‐to‐satisfaction linkages as well as satisfaction‐to‐problem linkages. Satisfaction was a stronger predictor of marital problems early in marriage but not as time passed; by Year 4 only problem‐to‐satisfaction linkages remained significant. These findings are consistent with the idea that couples with more problems go on to report lower levels of satisfaction and couples with lower levels of satisfaction go on to report more marital problems. This dynamic interplay between global judgments about relationship satisfaction and ongoing specific relationship difficulties highlights the value of examining bidirectional effects to better understand marital functioning over time.
Application of Laser‐Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy and Hyperspectral Images for Direct Evaluation of Chemical Elemental Profiles of Coprolites
Authors: Sperança Marco Aurélio , de Aquino Francisco Wendel Batista , Fernandes Marcelo Adorna , Lopez‐Castillo Alejandro , Carneiro Renato Lajarim , Pereira‐Filho Edenir Rodrigues
Published: November 2016

This study demonstrates the application of laser‐induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) and hyperspectral imaging to the investigation of coprolite and fossil samples. Solid samples from the Permian (seven coprolites and one fossil), Cretaceous (one coprolite) and Oligo‐Miocene (two coprolites) periods were directly analysed, and emission spectra from 186 to 1042 nm were obtained in several areas covering coprolite/fossil and rock material. Initial exploratory analyses were performed using principal component analysis with the data set normalised by the norm (Euclidean norm = 1). After identification and selection of emission lines of eleven elements (Al, Ca, Cr, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, Ni, P and Si), the signals were normalised again by the relative intensity of the selected element. Phosphorus was identified mainly in the coprolites, while K and Na were primarily found in the rock material. In several cases, there was a positive correlation between Ca and P. A sample from the Oligo‐Miocene series was also analysed using inductively coupled plasma‐optical emission spectrometry (ICP‐OES) (rock and coprolites were analysed separately). Based on the quantitative results from ICP‐OES, it was confirmed that the tendency was the same as that observed with the results obtained from LIBS directly in the solid sample.
Anti‐factor VIII antibodies in brothers with haemophilia A share similar characteristics
Authors: Kahle J. , Orlowski A. , Stichel D. , Healey J. F. , Parker E. T. , Donfield S. M. , Astermark J. , Berntorp E. , Lollar P. , Schwabe D. , Königs C.
Published: November 2016

Introduction

The development of neutralizing antibodies (inhibitors) against coagulation factor VIII (FVIII) is currently the most serious complication for patients with haemophilia A undergoing FVIII replacement therapy. Several genetic factors have been acknowledged as risk factors for inhibitor development.

Aim

To analyze the influence of genetic factors on the nature of the humoral immune response to FVIII in eight brother pairs with inhibitors.

Methods

The domain specificity of FVIII‐specific IgG was analysed by antibody binding to FVIII fragments and homologue‐scanning mutagenesis (HSM). The FVIII‐specific IgG subclasses were measured by direct ELISA.

Results

Of the 16 patient analysed with both methods, 12 had A2‐ and 13 had C2‐specific IgG. The presence of A1‐, A3‐ or C1‐specific IgG was identified in nine of 14 patients analysed by HSM. IgG1, IgG2 and IgG4 subclasses contributed to the anti‐FVIII IgG response, and the amount of FVIII‐specific IgG1 (r = 0.66) and IgG4 (r = 0.69) correlated significantly with inhibitor titres. Patients with high concentrations of total anti‐FVIII IgG (r = 0.69) or high inhibitor titres (r = 0.52) had a high proportion of FVIII‐specific IgG4. Statistical analysis revealed trends/evidence that the subclass distribution (P = 0.0847) and domain specificity to HC/LC (P = 0.0883) and A2/C2 (P = 0.0011) of anti‐FVIII IgG were more similar in brothers compared to unrelated subjects.

Conclusion

Overall, our data provide a first hint that anti‐FVIII IgG characteristics are comparable among haemophilic brothers with inhibitors. Whether genetic factors also influence the nature of patients’ antibodies needs to be confirmed in a larger study population.
Evaluation of the use of global haemostasis assays to monitor treatment in factor XI deficiency
Authors: Pike G. N. , Cumming A. M. , Thachil J. , Hay C. R. M. , Burthem J. , Bolton‐Maggs P. H. B.
Published: November 2016

Introduction

Previous guidelines recommend that FXI:C levels should be used to monitor FXI replacement in factor XI (FXI) deficiency. However, FXI:C levels do not correlate with bleeding tendency in this disorder and may not be the optimal test by which to monitor and determine further treatment in the postoperative period.

Aim

To assess whether the thrombin generation assay (TGA) and rotational thromboelastometry can be used to monitor FXI replacement peri‐operatively in FXI deficiency and to determine if changes in FXI:C levels correlate with changes in thrombin generation and clot formation parameters following treatment with solvent‐detergent fresh frozen plasma (SD‐FFP).

Methods

The TGA and rotational thromboelastometry were used to measure thrombin generation and clot formation in 11 adults with FXI deficiency who were treated with either SD‐FFP (n = 8) or FXI concentrate (n = 3) as prophylaxis peri‐operatively. Blood samples were taken pre‐ and 30 min post‐treatment.

Results

Global haemostasis assays can be used to measure the effect of FXI replacement with SD‐FFP or FXI concentrate in FXI deficiency. Both treatment types improved thrombin generation and clot formation. However, the remaining response to treatment at 24 h post SD‐FFP was variable and changes in FXI:C levels were not predictive of changes in thrombin generation/thromboelastometry parameters after treatment with SD‐FFP.

Conclusion

Global haemostasis assays may provide a more reliable means of monitoring SD‐FFP treatment with the potential to prevent individuals receiving unnecessary treatment, however, their clinical use in decision making needs to be tested in a larger prospective study.
Toward Theological Anthropology: Tracing the Anthropological Principles of John Webster
Authors: Allen Michael
Published: November 2016

John Webster rooted his doctrine of the human creature in a thick portrait of the living God in and of himself as well as in his works wherein he creates, sustains, redeems and perfects them unto life in him. This essay will seek to unfold, introduce and assess his methodological principles for pursuing a distinctly theological anthropology by attending to his engagement of external threats in postmodern anthropology and internal challenges from christocentric anthropologies. We will suggest ways in which his anthropological project suggests a way forward for those doing systematic work today in as much as it not only offers a confident approach on distinctly Christian terms but slowly ponders the fundamental facets of such a schema, tending to theology and creation prior to a focus upon incarnational Christology as a necessary means of engaging in ‘biblical reasoning’.
Assessing clinically significant prostate cancer: Diagnostic properties of multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging compared to three‐dimensional transperineal template mapping histopathology
Authors: Tsivian Matvey , Gupta Rajan T , Tsivian Efrat , Qi Peter , Mendez Melissa H , Abern Michael R , Tay Kae Jack , Polascik Thomas J
Published: November 2016

Objective

To evaluate the diagnostic properties of multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging in the detection, localization and characterization of prostate cancer using three‐dimensional transperineal template mapping biopsy histopathology as the comparator.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of patients undergoing prostate multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging followed by three‐dimensional transperineal template mapping biopsy was carried out. For imaging and pathology data, the prostate was divided in octants with the urethra being the midline. The index test properties were calculated using the biopsy histopathology as the reference test with the following end‐points: any cancer, any Gleason ≥7, any Gleason ≥7 or cancer length of ≥4 mm and any Gleason ≥7 or 6 mm in any given core. The latter two definitions correspond to 0.2 and 0.5 mL of cancer volume, respectively. Diagnostic properties including sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values were calculated.

Results

A total of 50 patients were included in the study. A median of 55 (interquartile range 42–63) biopsy cores were obtained per patient. Of 400 prostate octants evaluated, 28.5% had prostate cancer on mapping biopsy, whereas 23% of octants were considered suspicious for cancer on imaging. Multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging negative predictive values for Gleason ≥7 and clinically significant cancers were 84–100%. Similarly, specificity ranged between 79% and 85%. Sensitivity and positive predictive value remained moderate for all the reference test definitions.

Conclusions

Multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging is a useful minimally‐invasive tool for detection, localization and characterization of prostate cancer. This imaging modality has high negative predictive value and specificity, and therefore it could be used to reliably rule out clinically significant cancer, obviating the multicore mapping biopsy.
Estimating vaccine effectiveness in preventing laboratory‐confirmed influenza in outpatient settings in South Africa, 2015
Authors: McAnerney Johanna M. , Walaza Sibongile , Tempia Stefano , Blumberg Lucille , Treurnicht Florette K. , Madhi Shabir A. , Valley‐Omar Ziyaad , Cohen Cheryl
Published: November 2016

Trivalent seasonal influenza vaccine effectiveness during the 2015 season in South Africa was assessed using a test‐negative case control study design. Influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 was the dominant circulating strain. Overall influenza vaccine coverage was 3.2% (29/899). The vaccine effectiveness estimate, against any influenza virus infection, adjusted for age, underlying conditions and timing within season was 46.2% (95% CI: −23.5 to 76.5), and 53.6% (95% CI: −62.6 to 80.3) against influenza A(H1N1)pdm09.
Evaluation of salivary oxidate stress biomarkers, nitric oxide and C‐reactive protein in patients with oral lichen planus and burning mouth syndrome
Authors: Tvarijonaviciute Asta , Aznar‐Cayuela Cristina , Rubio Camila P. , Ceron José J. , López‐Jornet Pia
Published: November 2016

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate oxidative stress factors and C‐reactive protein in the saliva of patients with oral lichen planus (OLP) and burning mouth syndrome (BMS).

Methods

This consecutive, cross‐sectional study included 20 patients with OLP, 19 with burning mouth syndrome (BMS), and 31 control subjects. The oral cavity of each patient was examined and patients responded to a quality of life questionnaire (OHIP‐14) and the xerostomia inventory. The following parameters were measured in whole non‐stimulated saliva: trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC); total antioxidant capacity (TAC); cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC); ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP); C‐reactive protein (CRP); nitric oxide; nitrates; and nitrites.

Results

The OLP group presented statistically significant differences in reactive oxygen species (ROS) (29 600 cps) in comparison with the control group (39 679 cps) (P < 0.05). In the BMS group, ROS was 29 707 cps with significant difference in comparison with the control group (P < 0.05). Significantly higher salivary nitric oxide (145.7 μmol) and nitrite (141.0 μmol) levels were found in OLP patients in comparison with control group (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Increases in nitric oxide and C‐reactive protein were found in the saliva of OLP patients in comparison with BMS and control patients. Further studies are required to confirm these findings.
Hepatotoxicity of statins and other lipid‐lowering agents
Authors: Björnsson Einar S.
Published: November 2016

Statins are generally well tolerated and adverse effects are relatively rare. Clinical trials are underpowered to detect uncommon adverse effects such as idiosyncratic drug‐induced liver injury. This review is aimed at covering the current knowledge on the hepatotoxicity associated with statins and other lipid lowering drugs. Both atorvastatin and simvastatin have been associated with more than 50 case reports of liver injury and other statins have been implicated in this type of liver injury as well. Idiosyncratic liver injury due to statins has been reported to occur 1.9%‐5.5% of patients in prospective series of drug‐induced liver injury. Atorvastatin and simvastatin have been associated with positive rechallenge and some case reports have described liver injury following dose escalation of the implicated statin. Mortality from liver injury and/or liver transplantation has been documented in a few patients with statin induced liver injury although the vast majority of patients with liver injury have recovered after cessation of therapy.
Local versus offshore production of ready‐to‐use therapeutic foods and small quantity lipid‐based nutrient supplements
Authors: Segrè Joel , Liu Grace , Komrska Jan
Published: November 2016

Manufacturers on four continents currently produce ready‐to‐use therapeutic foods (RUTF). Some produce locally, near their intended users, while others produce offshore and ship their product long distances. Small quantity lipid‐based nutrient supplements (SQ‐LNS) such as Nutriset's Enov'Nutributter are not yet in widespread production. There has been speculation whether RUTF and SQ‐LNS should be produced primarily offshore, locally, or both. We analyzed The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) Supply Division data, reviewed published literature, and interviewed local manufacturers to identify key benefits and challenges to local versus offshore manufacture of RUTF. Both prices and estimated costs for locally produced product have consistently been higher than offshore prices. Local manufacture faces challenges in taxation on imported ingredients, low factory utilization, high interest rates, long cash conversion cycle, and less convenient access to quality testing labs. Benefits to local economies are not likely to be significant. Although offshore manufacturers offer RUTF at lower cost, local production is getting closer to cost parity for RUTF. UNICEF, which buys the majority of RUTF globally, continues to support local production, and efforts are underway to narrow the cost gap further. Expansion of RUTF producers into the production of other ready‐to‐use foods, including SQ‐LNS in order to reach a larger market and achieve a more sustainable scale, may further close the cost and price gap. Local production of both RUTF and SQ‐LNS could be encouraged by a favorable tax environment, assistance in lending, consistent forecasts from buyers, investment in reliable input supply chains, and local laboratory testing.
The Rotoroa Island and Auckland Zoo partnership: Connecting heterotopic spaces
Authors: Kearns Robin , Collins Damian , Wiles Janine
Published: November 2016

In partnership, Rotoroa Island and Auckland Zoo in the Hauraki Gulf have established a conservation sanctuary that has linked a literal sea‐bound island with an urban and metaphorical island. Each entity (Rotoroa and the Zoo) has a presence in each other's space. Ideas of archipelago as well as Foucault's heterotopia assist our interpretation of these developments as expressed in the observed landscape, policy documents and media sources. We conclude that an interpenetration of influences is enabling a diverse set of experiences within the controlled bounds of two intensely managed and insular spaces.
AN ANALYSIS ON THE APPLICATION OF EIA PROCESS IN MALAYSIA
Authors: Makmor Maisarah , Ismail Zulhabri
Published: November 2016

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) has been introduced in Malaysia as an interactive planning tool since 1976 through the Environment Quality Act (EQA) 1975. The implementation of the EIA process in Malaysia has played a significant role in cultivating environmental protection and sustainable development practice in Malaysia. This paper focuses on the EIA process that is being implemented in Malaysia in ensuring effective application of EIA. The purpose of this paper is to present the research findings that have contributed in the analysis of the existing EIA process that is currently implemented in Malaysia. An application of qualitative research was incorporated which utilises in-depth semi-structured interviews in the data collection process.  The research findings on the EIA guidelines, policies and the current EIA process are presented to provide a thorough understanding of this study.
OBSERVATIONS ON NUDIBRANCH BEHAVIOUR PATTERNS UNDER LABORATORY CONDITIONS
Authors: Alqudah Ali , Saad Shahbudin , Susanti Deny , Hadry Noor Faizul , Khodzori Mohd Fikri Akmal , Yusof Muhammaad Hamizan , Rani Mohd Husaini
Published: November 2016

Phyllidiid Nudibranchs Phyllidia varicosa and Phyllidiella pustulosa were observed under laboratory conditions and abnormal behaviours were recorded. This study described the manoeuvering, mating behaviour, egg laying and abnormal activities.  Some abnormal behaviours were recorded while retaining the sample in the aquarium such as emitting noxious chemicals, lifting up the mantle edge to expose the gills and crawling towards the water surface and lie there.  Maneuvering behaviour was distinguished when two individuals were interacting with each other before the mating. Mating behaviour started by extending and joining the reproductive organs followed by gamete exchange for several minutes. During the mating behaviour, there was a limited movement like contracting of the body and hiding the rhinophores into the rhino-tube. Egg deposition was observed in the aquarium as natural behavior after mating and as a stress response after placing the sample in the captivity.
EXPERIMENTAL RESULTS ON THE SHEAR BEHAVIOUR OF STEEL FIBRE SELF-COMPACTING CONCRETE (SFSCC) BEAMS
Authors: Lamide Juli Asni , Mohamed Roslli Noor , Abd Rahman Ahmad Baharuddin
Published: November 2016

This paper presents an experimental test program that was carried out to investigate the shear performance of steel fibre self-compacting concrete (SFSCC) beams. In this paper, the mechanical performance of results from all mixtures used to cast normal concrete (NC), self-compacting concrete (SCC) and steel fibre self-compacting concrete (SFSCC) were also investigated. In total, 27 cubes, 9 cylinders, 9 prisms and 9 beams were prepared for the assessment of mechanical properties of three different mixtures. Four beams (125 mm x 250 mm x 2200 mm) were tested and cast using three different concrete mixtures, having two different spacing of stirrups as a result of 50% reduction of the stirrups amount. Three beams with different mixtures having similar stirrups spacing 125mm while the fourth beam with SFSCC mixes having 250mm stirrups spacing. The results show that the mechanical properties were positively affected with steel fibres inclusion. The addition of steel fibres showed an increment up to 40% in the shear load capacity for B-SFSCC125 compared to B-NC125 and B-SCC125.  In addition, the crack pattern of B-SFSCC was found better than B-NC and B-SCC.
ANTIOXIDANT, ANTIDIABETIC AND CYTOTOXIC ACTIVITIES OF RENNELLIA ELLIPTICA KORTH.
Authors: Osman Che Puteh , Ismail Nor Hadiani , Ahmad Rohaya , Alitheen Noorjahan Banu , Mohamad Ridwan Mohamad Jemain , Maakhmor Talat
Published: November 2016

Rennellia elliptica is a small tropical shrub that commonly known as ‘segemuk’. The root decoction is traditionally used for health vitality. We have previously isolated Rubia-type anthraquinones from the root extract of Rennellia elliptica. The root extract is a potent antiplasmodial and some of the anthraquinones were strong inhibitors with the IC50 values of less than 2 µM. In continuation of our investigation on the pharmacological potential of R. elliptica, the root extracts and the anthraquinones were screened for antioxidant, antidiabetic and cytotoxic activities. Dichloromethane extract is a strong lipid peroxidation inhibitor but showed no activity against 3T3, MCF7 and 4T1 cancer cell lines and α-glucosidase. The anthraquinones showed weak radical scavenging activities against DPPH radicals. 2-Formyl-3-hydroxy-9,10-anthraquinones, damnacanthal and 2-methyl-3-hydroxy-9,10-anthraquinones showed moderate activity when screened for cytotoxicity using 3T3 cell lines at 30 µg/ml with 74.15, 67.34 and 50.40 %, respectively. When screened using 4T1 and MCF7 cell lines, only 2-formyl-3-hydroxy-9,10-anthraquinone showed moderate cytotoxicity after 72 hours of incubation. 1,2-Dimethoxy-6-methyl-9,10-anthraquinones and damnacanthal showed weak α-glucosidase inhibitory activity with 21.3 and 19.9 %, respectively, when screened at 10 µg/ml.
POTENTIAL USE COCONUT MILK AS ALTERNATIVE TO ALKALI SOLUTION FOR GEOPOLYMER PRODUCTION
Authors: Huseien Gahasan Fahim , Mirza Jahangir , Hussin Mohd Warid , Mohd Ariffin Mohd Azreen
Published: November 2016

This work aims to verify the feasibility of utilizing coconut milk as the alkali activator solution in geopolymer production and the impact on mortar properties; geopolymer mortar is  still more expensive than ordinary Portland cement mortar simply because the cost of alkali solution. Coconut milk is extensively available in Malaysia and very rich in potassium and sodium. In this research, the coconut milk was used as alkali solution (100%) at first, and then replaced by NaOH, Na2SiO3 and in the last stage mixed with NaOH and Na2SiO3 at 50%. Normal solution component of Na2SiO3 and NaOH with 8 M, and used as control samples. Binder to fine aggregate (B:A) and solution to binder (S:B) ratios were fixed at 1.5 and 0.30 respectively. Multi blend binder based geopolymer mortar are used in this study. The samples were cured with different conditions, cured at room temperature and oven temperature of 60 and 90°C. Compressive strength tests were carried out to determine the properties of hardened mortar. The samples prepared with coconut milk showed low compressive strength as compared to control samples, The results demonstrated that using coconut milk as alternative to alkali solution in geopolymer industry is not a viable option.
POSITIVITY PRESERVING INTERPOLATION BY USING RATIONAL CUBIC BALL SPLINE
Authors: Abdul Karim Samsul Ariffin
Published: November 2016

This paper discusses the positivity preserving by using rational cubic Ball interpolant of the form cubic/quadratic with two parameters. The sufficient condition for the positivity is derived on one parameter meanwhile the other one is a free parameter to control the final shape of the interpolating curves. The degree smoothness achieved is . From numerical results, the rational cubic Ball spline with two parameters gives smooth interpolating positive curves as well as visually pleasing for computer graphics visualization. Furthermore the scheme is better than existing schemes i.e. its easiness to use and less computation. All numerical results are produced by using Mathematica.
Cooling Injection Effect on a Transonic Squealer Tip—Part I: Experimental Heat Transfer Results and CFD Validation
Authors: Ma H. , Zhang Q. , He L. , Wang Z. , Wang L.
Published: November 2016

Recent studies have demonstrated that the aerothermal characteristics of turbine rotor blade tip under a transonic condition are qualitatively different from those under a low-speed subsonic condition. The cooling injection adds further complexity to the over-tip-leakage (OTL) transonic flow behavior and aerothermal performance, particularly for commonly studied shroudless tip configurations such as a squealer tip. However there has been no published experimental study of a cooled transonic squealer. The present study investigates the effect of cooling injection on a transonic squealer through a closely combined experimental and CFD effort. Part I of this two-part paper presents the first of the kind tip cooling experimental data obtained in a transonic linear cascade environment (exit Mach number 0.95). Transient thermal measurements are carried out for an uncooled squealer tip and six cooling configurations with different locations and numbers of discrete holes. High-resolution distributions of heat transfer coefficient and cooling effectiveness are obtained. ansysFluent is employed to perform numerical simulations for all the experimental cases. The mesh and turbulence modeling dependence is first evaluated before further computational studies are carried out. Both the experimental and computational results consistently illustrate strong interactions between the OTL flow and cooling injection. When the cooling injection (even with a relatively small amount) is introduced, distinctive series of stripes in surface heat transfer coefficient are observed with an opposite trend in the chordwise variations on the squealer cavity floor and on the suction surface rim. Both experimental and CFD results have also consistently shown interesting signatures of the strong OTL flow–cooling interactions in terms of the net heat flux reduction distribution in areas seemingly unreachable by the coolant. Further examinations and analyses of the related flow physics and underlining vortical flow structures will be presented in Part II.
60 Years in Motion: Short History of Nuclear Engineering Division
Authors: Riznic Jovica , Duffey Romney
Published: November 2016

This paper presents a brief history of the ASME nuclear engineering division (NED) over the past 60 years. The technical interest of the Division naturally mirrored the main stages in nuclear-technology development and growth of the industry. This is reflected in how the NED evolved the technical content of its major international conferences, the role of ASME standards, and the value of international cooperation. The International Conference on Nuclear Engineering (ICONE) series of conferences is covered as it occupies a special place in the ASME and NED history. The paper covers the birth and growth of the Division, its leadership, publications, and its flagship student program. It concludes with activities the NED is working on for the distant future.
A Constitutive Model for Soft Materials Incorporating Viscoelasticity and Mullins Effect
Authors: Lu Tongqing , Wang Jikun , Yang Ruisen , Wang T. J.
Published: November 2016

Soft materials including elastomers and gels are widely used in applications of energy absorption, soft robotics, bioengineering, and medical instruments. For many soft materials subject to loading and unloading cycles, the stress required on reloading is often less than that on the initial loading, known as Mullins effect. Meanwhile, soft materials usually exhibit rate-dependent viscous behavior. Both effects were recently reported on a new kind of synthesized tough gel, with capability of large deformation, high strength, and extremely high toughness. In this work, we develop a coupled viscoelastic and Mullins-effect model to characterize the deformation behavior of the tough gel. We modify one of the elastic components in Zener model to be a damageable spring to incorporate the Mullins effect and model the viscous effect to behave as a Newtonian fluid. We synthesized the tough gel described in the literature (Sun et al., Nature 2012) and conducted uniaxial tensile tests and stress relaxation tests. We also investigated the two effects on three other soft materials, polyacrylate elastomer, Nitrile-Butadiene Rubber, and polyurethane. We find that our presented model is so robust that it can characterize all the four materials, with modulus ranging from a few tens of kilopascal to megapascal. The theory and experiment for all tested materials agree very well.
A Particle Filter Approach for Identifying Tire Model Parameters From Full-Scale Experimental Tests
Authors: Sabbioni Edoardo , Bao Ruixin , Cheli Federico , Tarsitano Davide
Published: November 2016

Mathematical models simulating the handling behavior of passenger cars are extensively used at a design stage for evaluating the effects of new structural solutions or control systems. The main source of uncertainty in these type of models lies in tire–road interaction, due to high nonlinearity. Proper estimation of tire model parameters is thus of utter importance to obtain reliable results. This paper presents a methodology aimed at identifying the magic formula-tire (MF-Tire) model coefficients of the tires of an axle only based on measurements carried out on board vehicle (vehicle sideslip angle, yaw rate, lateral acceleration, speed, and steer angle) during standard handling maneuvers (step-steers, double lane changes, etc.). The proposed methodology is based on particle filtering (PF) technique. PF may become a serious alternative to classic model-based techniques, such as Kalman filters. Results of the identification procedure were first checked through simulations. Then, PF was applied to experimental data collected using an instrumented passenger car.
The Discrete Adjoint Gradient Computation for Optimization Problems in Multibody Dynamics
Authors: Lauß Thomas , Oberpeilsteiner Stefan , Steiner Wolfgang , Nachbagauer Karin
Published: November 2016

The adjoint method is a very efficient way to compute the gradient of a cost functional associated to a dynamical system depending on a set of input signals. However, the numerical solution of the adjoint differential equations raises several questions with respect to stability and accuracy. An alternative and maybe more natural approach is the discrete adjoint method (DAM), which constructs a finite difference scheme for the adjoint system directly from the numerical solution procedure, which is used for the solution of the equations of motion. The method delivers the exact gradient of the discretized cost functional subjected to the discretized equations of motion. For the application of the discrete adjoint method to the forward solver, several matrices are necessary. In this contribution, the matrices are derived for the simple Euler explicit method and for the classical implicit Hilber–Hughes–Taylor (HHT) solver.
Patterning large area plasmonic nanostructures on nonconductive substrates using variable pressure electron beam lithography
Authors: Babocký Jiří , Dvořák Petr , Ligmajer Filip , Hrtoň Martin , Šikola Tomáš , Bok Jan , Fiala Jiří
Published: November 2016

Variable pressure electron beam lithography (VP-EBL) is a unique technique offering alternative cost-effective approach for patterning on nonconductive substrates that are often required for many applications in the field of plasmonics. Here, the authors present the use of the VP-EBL for accurate fabrication of nanoantennas with plasmonic resonances in visible range in order to achieve artificial sample coloring. Using confocal transmission spectroscopy, the authors show that optimized VP-EBL process enables fabrication of plasmonic nanoantennas with optical properties equivalent to those produced via traditional approach. Furthermore, the authors demonstrate high stability of the exposure process by fabricating a millimeter-sized color image composed of plasmonic nanoantennas.
Quasi-atomic layer etching of silicon nitride
Authors: Sherpa Sonam D. , Ranjan Alok
Published: November 2016

Atomic layer etching (ALE) is a promising technique that can solve the challenges associated with continuous or pulsed plasma processes—trade-offs between selectivity, profile, and aspect ratio dependent etching. Compared to silicon, oxide, and other materials, atomic layer etching of silicon nitride has not been extensively reported. In this paper, the authors demonstrate the self-limited etching of silicon nitride in a commercial plasma etch chamber. The process discussed in this paper consists of two sequential steps—surface modification in hydrogen plasma followed by the removal of modified layers in fluorinated plasma. In addition to the ALE characteristics, the authors also demonstrate that the process is anisotropic and the selectivity to oxide is >100. Although the saturated etch rate of one monolayer per cycle could not be attained, self-limited etching of silicon nitride still enables us to incorporate the benefits of atomic layer etching such as an absence of isodense bias and an extremely high selectivity to oxide into practical etch applications.
Aluminum-based contacts for use in GaSb-based diode lasers
Authors: Tran Thanh-Nam , Patra Saroj Kumar , Breivik Magnus , Fimland Bjørn-Ove
Published: November 2016

Aluminum-based contacts could be a good alternative to conventional gold-based contacts for a number of GaSb-based devices. In this study, the use of some Al-based contacts in GaSb-based diode lasers was investigated via the measurement of specific contact resistivity and laser output characteristics. The Al-based contacts to p-type GaSb(001) exhibited lower specific contact resistivities than the conventional Au-based contacts, whereas the opposite was the case for contacts to n-type GaSb(001). The good performance of GaSb-based laser diodes using Al-based contacts shows the applicability of this type of contact in GaSb-based devices. The contact between Al only and p-type GaSb(001), however, could suffer from a reliability problem when used in diode lasers, due to interdiffusion, in which case a diffusion barrier should be included.
High-k/GaN interface engineering toward AlGaN/GaN MIS-HEMT with improved Vth stability
Authors: Szabó Nadine , Wachowiak Andre , Winzer Annett , Ocker Johannes , Gärtner Jan , Hentschel Rico , Schmid Alexander , Mikolajick Thomas
Published: November 2016

Metal–insulator–semiconductor (MIS) capacitor structures were fabricated on AlGaN/GaN two-dimensional electron gas heterostructure material in order to investigate important aspects of the gate module of a corresponding MIS-high electron mobility transistor device. The process sequence started with an initial wet chemical surface treatment of the as-grown semiconductor material followed by an atomic layer deposition of Al2O3 (high-k first). The electrical analysis focused on the gate leakage current as well as on the shift of the threshold voltage (Vth) upon bias stress in the off- and the on-state regions. The high-k first samples showed much better Vth stability compared to lithographically processed samples, in which the high-k deposition was performed after ohmic contact formation and just before the gate electrode metallization. These results reflect a superior quality of the high-k/GaN interface for the processed structures according to the high-k first approach.
Impact of temperature on conduction mechanisms and switching parameters in HfO2-based 1T-1R resistive random access memories devices
Authors: Pérez Eduardo , Wenger Christian , Grossi Alessandro , Zambelli Cristian , Olivo Piero , Roelofs Robin
Published: November 2016

In this work, the impact of temperature in the range from −40 to +150 °C on the leakage mechanism and resistive switching voltages of 1T-1R HfO2-based devices is investigated. By using incremental step pulses with an additional read and verify algorithm, the devices are switched from the high resistive state (HRS) to the low resistive state (LRS) and vice versa. In the HRS, the leakage current values are not affected by the temperature, suggesting a tunnel-like conduction mechanism through the filament constriction. By applying the quantum-point contact model, this temperature independence is attributed to compensation between the width and the height variations of the tunnel barrier. In contrast to the HRS, the leakage currents values of the LRS are decreasing linearly with raising temperature, suggesting a metal-like conduction mechanism. Therefore, the on/off ratio is slightly decreasing with increasing temperature. Regarding the switching voltages, no impact of temperature was found, ensuring stable switching cycles of the devices in the relevant temperature range for applications.
Carbapenem-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa Bacteremia: Risk Factors for Mortality and Microbiologic Treatment Failure
Authors: Buehrle Deanna J. , Shields Ryan K. , Clarke Lloyd G. , Potoski Brian A. , Clancy Cornelius J. , Nguyen M. Hong
Published: November 2016

We reviewed 37 patients treated for bacteremia due to carbapenem-resistant (CR)
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
. Although 65% of isolates were multiple-drug resistant, therapeutic options were available, as all were susceptible to ≥1 antibiotic. A total of 92% of patients received active antimicrobial therapy, but only 57% received early active therapy (within 48 h). Fourteen-day mortality was 19%. Microbiologic failure occurred in 29%. The Pitt bacteremia score (
P
= 0.046) and delayed active therapy (
P
= 0.027) were predictive of death and microbiologic failure, respectively.
Critical Evaluation of Molecular Monitoring in Malaria Drug Efficacy Trials and Pitfalls of Length-Polymorphic Markers
Authors: Messerli Camilla , Hofmann Natalie E. , Beck Hans-Peter , Felger Ingrid
Published: November 2016

Estimation of drug efficacy in antimalarial drug trials requires parasite genotyping to distinguish new infections from treatment failures. When using length-polymorphic molecular markers, preferential amplification of short fragments can compromise detection of coinfections, potentially leading to misclassification of treatment outcome. We quantified minority clone detectability and competition among
msp1
,
msp2
, and
glurp
amplicons using mixtures of
Plasmodium falciparum
strains and investigated the impact of template competition on genotyping outcomes in 44 paired field samples. Substantial amplification bias was detected for all three markers, with shorter fragments outperforming larger fragments. The strongest template competition was observed for the marker
glurp
. Detection of
glurp
fragments in multiclonal infections was severely compromised. Eight of 44 sample pairs were identified as new infections by all three markers. Ten pairs were defined as new infections based on one marker alone, seven of which were defined by the questionable marker
glurp
. The impact of size-dependent template competition on genotyping outcomes therefore calls for necessary amendments to the current WHO recommendations for PCR correction of malaria drug trial endpoints. Accuracy of genotyping outcomes could be improved by separate amplification reactions per allelic family and basing results on markers
msp1
and
msp2
first, with
glurp
only used to resolve discordant results.
Purification and characterization of formyl-coenzyme A transferase from Oxalobacter formigenes
Authors: Baetz A L , Allison M J
Published: November 2016

Formyl-coenzyme A (formyl-CoA) transferase was purified from Oxalobacter formigenes by high-pressure liquid chromatography with hydrophobic interaction chromatography and by DEAE anion-exchange chromatography. The enzyme was a single entity on sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and gel permeation chromatography (Mr, 44,000). It had an isoelectric point of 4.7. The enzyme catalyzed the transfer of CoA from formyl-CoA to either oxalate or succinate. Apparent Km and Vmax values, respectively, were 3.0 mM and 29.6 mumols/min per mg for formyl-CoA with an excess of succinate. The maximum specific activity was 2.15 mumols of CoA transferred from formyl-CoA to oxalate per min per mg of protein.