bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regional Analysis of the Pharmacological Effects of Acute Ethanol on Extracellular Striatal Dopamine Activity
Authors: Vena Ashley A. , Mangieri Regina , Gonzales Rueben A.
Published: October 2016

Background

The objective of this study was to characterize the acute pharmacological effects of ethanol (EtOH) on extracellular dopamine in the dorsomedial and dorsolateral striata. This is the first study to quantify and directly compare the effects of acute EtOH on dopamine in these subregions. Therefore, we also tested the nucleus accumbens as a positive control. We hypothesized that while EtOH may increase extracellular dopamine in the dorsomedial striatum and dorsolateral striatum, the magnitude of this increase and the temporal profiles of extracellular dopamine concentrations would differ among the dorsomedial striatum, dorsolateral striatum, and nucleus accumbens.

Methods

We performed in vivo microdialysis in adult, male Long Evans rats as they received a single (experiment 1) or repeated (experiment 2) doses of EtOH.

Results

The results of our positive control study validate earlier work by our laboratory demonstrating that acute intravenous EtOH immediately and robustly increases extracellular dopamine in the nucleus accumbens (Howard et al., ). In contrast, a single 1‐g/kg dose of intravenous EtOH did not significantly affect extracellular dopamine in the dorsomedial striatum or the dorsolateral striatum. However, following a cumulative EtOH dosing protocol, we observed a ramping up of tonic dopamine activity in both the dorsomedial striatum and dorsolateral striatum over the course of the experiment, but this effect was more robust in the dorsomedial striatum.

Conclusions

These results suggest that distinct mechanisms underlie the stimulating effects of acute EtOH on extracellular dopamine in striatal subregions. Additionally, our findings suggest a role for the dorsomedial striatum and minimal‐to‐no role for the dorsolateral striatum in mediating the intoxicating effects of acute moderate to high doses of EtOH.
Surgical management of refractory nasal aspergillosis using iodine cadexomer dressings in three dogs
Authors: Preston TJ , Hosgood GL , Paul AEH
Published: October 2016

Background

This case series describes surgical management of nasal aspergillosis refractory to conventional medical management or with evidence of cribriform plate osteolysis in three dogs.

Methods

All dogs had surgical debridement of mucosa, nasal turbinates and necrotic debris via dorsal sinusotomy/rhinotomy. Sinuses were packed with iodine cadexomer‐impregnated bandages for several weeks and affixed with tie‐over bandages. Bandage changes were performed under sedation in 2/3 cases. Once mature granulation tissue covered all exposed bone, the tie‐over bandages were removed and the sinusotomy/rhinotomy closed by apposing the skin edges.

Conclusion

This technique was well tolerated, effective and afforded a cure in all three patients. It should be considered in cases of cribriform lysis or lack of clinical response to conventional medical management.
Central nervous system toxicity of mefenamic acid overdose compared with other NSAIDs: an analysis of cases reported to the United Kingdom National Poisons Information Service
Authors: Kamour Ashraf , Crichton Siobhan , Cooper Gill , Lupton David J. , Eddleston Michael , Vale J. Allister , Thompson John P. , Thomas Simon H. L.
Published: October 2016

Aims

Case reports and small case series suggest increased central nervous system (CNS) toxicity, especially convulsions, after overdose of mefenamic acid, compared with other nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), although comparative epidemiological studies have not been conducted. The current study compared rates of CNS toxicity after overdose between mefenamic acid, ibuprofen, diclofenac and naproxen, as reported in telephone enquiries to the UK National Poisons Information Service (NPIS).

Methods

NPIS telephone enquiries related to the four NSAIDs, received between January 2007 and December 2013, were analysed, comparing the frequency of reported CNS toxicity (convulsions, altered conscious level, agitation or aggression, confusion or disorientation) using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

Of 22 937 patient‐specific telephone enquiries, 10 398 did not involve co‐ingestion of other substances (mefenamic acid 461, ibuprofen 8090, diclofenac 1300, naproxen 547). Patients taking mefenamic acid were younger and more commonly female than those using other NSAIDs. Those ingesting mefenamic acid were more likely to experience CNS toxicity than those ingesting the other NSAIDs combined [adjusted odds ratio (OR) 7.77, 95% confidence interval (CI) 5.68, 10.62], especially convulsions (adjusted OR 81.5, 95% CI 27.8, 238.8). Predictors of CNS toxicity included reported dose and age, but not gender.

Conclusions

Mefenamic acid overdose is associated with a much larger and dose‐related risk of CNS toxicity, especially convulsions, compared with overdose of other NSAIDs. The benefit–risk profile of mefenamic acid should now be re‐evaluated in light of effective and less toxic alternatives.
Whole‐exome sequencing reveals the spectrum of gene mutations and the clonal evolution patterns in paediatric acute myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Shiba Norio , Yoshida Kenichi , Shiraishi Yuichi , Okuno Yusuke , Yamato Genki , Hara Yusuke , Nagata Yasunobu , Chiba Kenichi , Tanaka Hiroko , Terui Kiminori , Kato Motohiro , Park Myoung‐ja , Ohki Kentaro , Shimada Akira , Takita Junko , Tomizawa Daisuke , Kudo Kazuko , Arakawa Hirokazu , Adachi Souichi , Taga Takashi , Tawa Akio , Ito Etsuro , Horibe Keizo , Sanada Masashi , Miyano Satoru , Ogawa Seishi , Hayashi Yasuhide
Published: October 2016

Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) is a molecularly and clinically heterogeneous disease. Targeted sequencing efforts have identified several mutations with diagnostic and prognostic values in KIT, NPM1, CEBPA and FLT3 in both adult and paediatric AML. In addition, massively parallel sequencing enabled the discovery of recurrent mutations (i.e. IDH1/2 and DNMT3A) in adult AML. In this study, whole‐exome sequencing (WES) of 22 paediatric AML patients revealed mutations in components of the cohesin complex (RAD21 and SMC3), BCORL1 and ASXL2 in addition to previously known gene mutations. We also revealed intratumoural heterogeneities in many patients, implicating multiple clonal evolution events in the development of AML. Furthermore, targeted deep sequencing in 182 paediatric AML patients identified three major categories of recurrently mutated genes: cohesion complex genes [STAG2, RAD21 and SMC3 in 17 patients (8·3%)], epigenetic regulators [ASXL1/ASXL2 in 17 patients (8·3%), BCOR/BCORL1 in 7 patients (3·4%)] and signalling molecules. We also performed WES in four patients with relapsed AML. Relapsed AML evolved from one of the subclones at the initial phase and was accompanied by many additional mutations, including common driver mutations that were absent or existed only with lower allele frequency in the diagnostic samples, indicating a multistep process causing leukaemia recurrence.
Retargeting 3D Objects and Scenes with a General Framework
Authors: Huang Chun‐Kai , Chen Yi‐Ling , Shen I‐Chao , Chen Bing‐Yu
Published: October 2016

In this paper, we introduce an interactive method suitable for retargeting both 3D objects and scenes. Initially, the input object or scene is decomposed into a collection of constituent components enclosed by corresponding control bounding volumes which capture the intra‐structures of the object or semantic grouping of objects in the 3D scene. The overall retargeting is accomplished through a constrained optimization by manipulating the control bounding volumes. Without inferring the intricate dependencies between the components, we define a minimal set of constraints that maintain the spatial arrangement and connectivity between the components to regularize the valid retargeting results. The default retargeting behavior can then be easily altered by additional semantic constraints imposed by users. This strategy makes the proposed method highly flexible to process a wide variety of 3D objects and scenes under an unified framework. In addition, the proposed method achieved more general structure‐preserving pattern synthesis in both object and scene levels. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our method by applying it to several complicated 3D objects and scenes.
Appearance Harmonization for Single Image Shadow Removal
Authors: Ma Li‐Qian , Wang Jue , Shechtman Eli , Sunkavalli Kalyan , Hu Shi‐Min
Published: October 2016

Shadow removal is a challenging problem and previous approaches often produce de‐shadowed regions that are visually inconsistent with the rest of the image. We propose an automatic shadow region harmonization approach that makes the appearance of a de‐shadowed region (produced using any previous technique) compatible with the rest of the image. We use a shadow‐guided patch‐based image synthesis approach that reconstructs the shadow region using patches sampled from non‐shadowed regions. This result is then refined based on the reconstruction confidence to handle unique textures. Qualitative comparisons over a wide range of images, and a quantitative evaluation on a benchmark dataset show that our technique significantly improves upon the state‐of‐the‐art.
Re‐Compositable Panoramic Selfie with Robust Multi‐Frame Segmentation and Stitching
Authors: Li Kai , Wang Jue , Liu Yebin , Xu Li , Dai Qionghai
Published: October 2016

It is a challenging task for ordinary users to capture selfies with a good scene composition, given the limited freedom to position the camera. Creative hardware (e.g., selfie sticks) and software (e.g., panoramic selfie apps) solutions have been proposed to extend the background coverage of a selife, but to achieve a perfect composition on the spot when the selfie is captured remains to be difficult. In this paper, we propose a system that allows the user to shoot a selfie video by rotating the body first, then produce a final panoramic selfie image with user‐guided scene composition as postprocessing. Our key technical contribution is a fully Automatic, robust multi‐frame segmentation and stitching framework that is tailored towards the special characteristics of selfie images. We analyze the sparse feature points and employ a spatial‐temporal optimization for bilayer feature segmentation, which leads to more reliable background alignment than previous image stitching techniques. The sparse classification is then propagated to all pixels to create dense foreground masks for person‐background composition. Finally, based on a user‐selected foreground position, our system uses content‐preserving warping to produce a panoramic seflie with minimal distortion to the face region. Experimental results show that our approach can reliably generate high quality panoramic selfies, while a simple combination of previous image stitching and segmentation approaches often fails.
Merged Multiresolution Hierarchies for Shadow Map Compression
Authors: Scandolo Leonardo , Bauszat Pablo , Eisemann Elmar
Published: October 2016

Multiresolution Hierarchies (MH) and Directed Acyclic Graphs (DAG) are two recent approaches for the compression of high‐resolution shadow information. In this paper, we introduce Merged Multiresolution Hierarchies (MMH), a novel data structure that unifies both concepts. An MMH leverages both hierarchical homogeneity exploited in MHs, as well as topological similarities exploited in DAG representations. We propose an efficient hash‐based technique to quickly identify and remove redundant subtree instances in a modified relative MH representation. Our solution remains lossless and significantly improves the compression rate compared to both preceding shadow map compression algorithms, while retaining the full run‐time performance of traditional MH representations.
Feature‐Aware Pixel Art Animation
Authors: Kuo Ming‐Hsun , Yang Yong‐Liang , Chu Hung‐Kuo
Published: October 2016

Pixel art is a modern digital art in which high resolution images are abstracted into low resolution pixelated outputs using concise outlines and reduced color palettes. Creating pixel art is a labor intensive and skill‐demanding process due to the challenge of using limited pixels to represent complicated shapes. Not surprisingly, generating pixel art animation is even harder given the additional constraints imposed in the temporal domain. Although many powerful editors have been Designed to facilitate the creation of still pixel art images, the extension to pixel art animation remains an unexplored direction. Existing systems typically request users to craft individual pixels frame by frame, which is a tedious and error‐prone process. In this work, we present a novel animation framework tailored to pixel art images. Our system bases on conventional key‐frame animation framework and state‐of‐the‐art image warping techniques to generate an initial animation sequence. The system then jointly optimizes the prominent feature lines of individual frames respecting three metrics that capture the quality of the animation sequence in both spatial and temporal domains. We demonstrate our system by generating visually pleasing animations on a variety of pixel art images, which would otherwise be difficult by applying state‐of‐the‐art techniques due to severe artifacts.
Variance Analysis of Multi‐sample and One‐sample Multiple Importance Sampling
Authors: Sbert M. , Havran V. , Szirmay‐Kalos L.
Published: October 2016

We reexamine in this paper the variance for the Multiple Importance Sampling (MIS) estimator for multi‐sample and one‐sample model. As a result of our analysis we can obtain the optimal estimator for the multi‐sample model for the case where the weights do not depend on the count of samples. We extend the analysis to include the cost of sampling. With these results in hand we find a better estimator than balance heuristic with equal count of samples. Further, we show that the variance for the one‐sample model is larger or equal than for the multi‐sample model, and that there are only two cases where the variance is the same. Finally, we study on four examples the difference of variances for equal count as used by Veach, our new estimator, and a recently introduced heuristic.
Harmonic Functions for Rotational Symmetry Vector Fields
Authors: Shen Zhongwei , Fang Xianzhong , Liu Xinguo , Bao Hujun , Huang Jin
Published: October 2016

Representing rotational symmetry vector as a set of vectors is not suitable for design due to lacking of a consistent ordering for measurement. In this paper we introduce a spectral method to find rotation invariant harmonic functions for symmetry vector field design. This method is developed for 3D vector fields, but it is applicable in 2D. Given the finite symmetry group G of a symmetry vector fieldv(x) on a 3D domain Ω, we formulate the harmonic function h(s) as a stationary point of group G. Using the real spherical harmonic (SH) bases, we showed the coefficients of the harmonic functions are an eigenvector of the SH rotation matrices corresponding to group G. Instead of solving eigen problems to obtain the eigenvector, we developed a forward constructive method based on orthogonal group theory. The harmonic function found by our method is not only invariant under G, but also expressive and can distinguish different rotations with respect to G. At last, we demonstrate some vector field design results with tetrahedron‐symmetry, cube‐symmetry and dodecahedron‐symmetry groups.
Multimodality imaging evaluation of a mitro‐aortic fibrosa pseudoaneurysm fistulizing into both atria
Authors: Arroja Jose David , Hachulla Anne Lise , Ellenberger Christoph , Müller Hajo
Published: October 2016

To our knowledge, we describe the first case of a pseudoaneurysm of the mitro‐aortic intervalvular fibrosa fistulizing into both atria, following an aortic bacterial endocarditis and valve replacement.
von Willebrand disease type 1 mutation p.Arg1379Cys and the variant p.Ala1377Val synergistically determine a 2M phenotype in four Italian patients
Authors: Pagliari M. T. , Baronciani L. , Stufano F. , Garcia‐Oya I. , Cozzi G. , Franchi F. , Peyvandi F.
Published: October 2016

Introduction

We characterized five patients affected with von Willebrand disease (VWD) carrying the p.Arg1379Cys mutation. One was diagnosed as VWD type 1 and four as type 2M. The 2M patients also have the variant p.Ala1377Val in cis with p.Arg1379Cys.

Aim

To evaluate the role of p.Ala1377Val and p.Arg1379Cys von Willebrand factor (VWF) variants to explain patients' phenotype.

Methods

Conventional phenotype tests were used to evaluate patients' plasma and platelets. Direct sequence analysis of exon 28 was carried out. The allele frequency of p.Ala1377Val was evaluated using online database. pcDNA3.1‐VWF‐WT and mutant (A1377V, R1379C and A1377V‐R1379C) expression vectors were transiently transfected in HEK293 cells. The capacity of WT and mutant recombinant (r)VWF (along with patients' plasma VWF) to bind glycoprotein Ibα (GpIbα) were evaluated, using two ELISA assays. One with a wild‐type (WT) recombinant (r)GpIbα at increasing ristocetin concentrations (from 0 to 1.50 mg mL−1) and the other with a gain‐of‐function mutant rGpIbα (VWF:GPIbM).

Results

The substitution c.4130C>T (p.Ala1377Val) was reported as rare variant in online databases. At 0.25 mg mL−1 of ristocetin, WT, A1377V and R1379C showed 6, 7.5 and 12‐fold increased binding to rGpIbα, respectively. A1377V‐R1379C rVWF showed no increased binding to rGpIbα at the same ristocetin concentration and reached the highest binding, of only 3‐fold increased, at 1.50 mg mL−1 of ristocetin. The VWF:GPIbM showed strongly reduced values for the A1377V‐R1379C rVWF and the 2M patients' plasma.

Conclusion

Our study showed that the presence of both p.Ala1377Val and p.Arg1379Cys mutations (synergistic effect) abolishes the binding of rVWF to rGpIbα, explaining patients' 2M phenotype.
Correlation of morphology and photoluminescence properties of gehlenite: Eu glassy phosphors
Authors: Shih Shao‐Ju , Lin Yu‐Chien , Lin Shih‐Heng , Yu Chin‐Yang
Published: October 2016

In this study, gehlenite: Eu glassy powders were synthesized from two common Si sources, silicon tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) and silicon acetate (SiA), using spray pyrolysis. Its morphology and chemical composition were studied. The morphological results suggested that the SiA‐derived powder contained more porous particles than the TEOS‐derived powder. The two gehlenite powders thus formed were found to have similar chemical compositions. Accordingly, porous gehlenite: Eu glassy phosphor seems to exhibit superior PL properties, which have the potential to be exploited in novel phosphor materials.
Crude extract of Fuzhuan brick tea ameliorates DSS‐induced colitis in mice
Authors: Liu Bo , Yang Tao , Zeng Linna , Shi Limin , Li Yan , Xia Zanguo , Xia Xuping , Lin Qinlu , Luo Feijun
Published: October 2016

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is highly prevalent worldwide and includes ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease. It is a high incidence rate disease all over the world and an inducement of colon cancer. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential protective effect of Fuzhuan brick tea (FBT) against colitis induced by dextran sulphate sodium (DSS) in mice. ICR mice were administered FBT orally for 7 days before drinking 3% DSS (w/v). The FBT significantly attenuated the symptoms of colitis including diarrhoea, rectal bleeding and loss of body weight. FBT reduced the shortening of colon length and alleviated the histopathological damages. The myeloperoxidase activity, nitric oxide and malondialdehyde level in colon tissues were also significantly decreased by FBT. Besides, FBT treatment obviously suppressed the expression of the inflammatory cytokines such as TNF‐α, IL‐1β and IFN‐γ. Our results provide a safe and efficient method for preventing and treating colitis.
Effect of differently processed açai (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) on the retention of phenolics and anthocyanins in chewy candies
Authors: da Silva Lidiane Bataglia , Annetta Fernanda Elena , Alves Adriana Barreto , Queiroz Marise Bonifácio , Fadini Ana Lúcia , da Silva Marta Gomes , Efraim Priscilla
Published: October 2016

This study investigated the effects of processing and storage on the physicochemical properties and retention of antioxidant compounds of no‐added sucrose chewy candies (NASC) incorporated with differently processed açai (frozen pulp, spray‐dried and freeze‐dried powders). NASC containing freeze‐dried açai had the highest softness and recoveries of total phenolic (TP) and total anthocyanin (TA) immediately after production. Colour parameters and antioxidant capacity by ABTS and ORAC assays had no significant differences after 6 months of NASC storage, except for ORAC in NASC containing spray‐dried açai, whereas DPPH• in all samples significantly increased. Water activity and hardness also increased after storage, whereas TP and TA contents decreased, despite presenting good retentions (approx. 72–78% TP and 84–99% TA). This study suggests that açai has a great potential to be used as a natural pigment and antioxidant source in candy manufacturing, meeting consumption trends towards healthier products.
Risk of advanced colorectal neoplasm in patients with more than 10 adenomas on index colonoscopy: A Korean Association for the Study of Intestinal Diseases (KASID) study
Authors: Park Soo‐Kyung , Hwang Sung Wook , Kim Kyeong Ok , Cha Jae Myung , Boo Sun‐Jin , Shin Jeong Eun , Joo Young‐Eun , Jung Yunho , Lee Jun , Yang Hyo‐Joon , Park Dong Il ,   Intestinal Cancer Study Group of the Korean Association for the Study of Intestinal Diseases (KASID)
Published: October 2016

Background and Aim

The number of patients with >10 adenomas is relatively small, and few studies have investigated the risk of colorectal neoplasm (CRN) in these patients. Thus, we aimed to investigate the risk of developing CRN in patients with >10 adenomas and to compare their risk with that of patients with 3–10 adenomas.

Methods

A retrospective multicenter cohort study that included 214 patients with >10 adenomas on index colonoscopy performed between January 2009 and December 2011, and underwent follow‐up colonoscopy until December 2015 was conducted. The risk of developing advanced CRN (cancer or advanced adenoma with a diameter of ≥10 mm or with a villous component, or high‐grade dysplasia) was investigated and compared with that in patients with 3–10 adenomas (n = 975).

Results

Among the 214 patients with >10 adenomas, the mean age was 62.9 years and the mean number of adenomas on index colonoscopy was 14.2. Overall, 57 patients (26.6%) developed an advanced CRN after a mean of 4.3 years from baseline colonoscopy. The respective 3‐ and 5‐year cumulative risks of advanced CRN were 6.8% (95% confidence interval [CI] 2.9–10.7) and 28.7% (95% CI 20.8–36.5), higher than those in the group with 3–10 adenomas (n = 975, P = 0.001). Having >10 adenomas on index colonoscopy was an independent risk factor for developing advanced CRN (odds ratio 2.25, 95% CI 1.49–3.38).

Conclusions

The risk of developing advanced CRN in patients with >10 adenomas was high and statistically higher than that in patients with 3–10 adenomas. Further prospective studies are needed to investigate whether a more intensive surveillance is needed in this group.
Inflammatory bowel disease detection and monitoring by measuring biomarkers in non‐invasively collected colorectal mucus
Authors: Loktionov Alexandre , Chhaya Vivek , Bandaletova Tatiana , Poullis Andrew
Published: October 2016

Background and Aim

Non‐invasive detection and monitoring of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an important clinical challenge. Stool calprotectin is the most popular among available options, but the necessity of stool collection limits its acceptability. This study aimed to evaluate biomarker measurement in non‐invasively collected colorectal mucus as a new tool for IBD detection and activity monitoring.

Methods

Calprotectin, eosinophil‐derived neurotoxin (EDN), and protein S100A12 were measured in colorectal mucus self‐collected following defecation by 58 patients with IBD (before therapy), 50 patients with irritable bowel syndrome, and 33 healthy volunteers. Patients with IBD also collected samples at days 10, 20, and 30 of treatment for disease activity monitoring.

Results

Protein biomarker levels were significantly (P < 0.001) higher in IBD patients than in irritable bowel syndrome and control groups. Calprotectin and EDN effectively detected IBD with a respective sensitivity and specificity of 0.76 and 0.92 for calprotectin and 0.83 and 0.94 for EDN. S100A12 was less sensitive. Calprotectin and EDN results were combined in a new test (CALEDN) that had a sensitivity of 0.91 and a specificity of 0.89. Repeated biomarker measurement during IBD treatment demonstrated a steady decline of calprotectin and EDN levels as well as CALEDN values in patients responding to applied therapy and lack of this pattern in non‐responders.

Conclusions

Measuring calprotectin and EDN in non‐invasively collected colorectal mucus presents a simple and efficient method for IBD detection and monitoring. Excellent performance of EDN for this purpose is reported for the first time. Combining calprotectin and EDN in one test improves IBD detection sensitivity.
Results of sofosbuvir‐based combination therapy for chronic hepatitis C cohort of Indian patients in real‐life clinical practice
Authors: Sood Ajit , Midha Vandana , Mahajan Ramit , Narang Vikram , Mehta Varun , Wander Praneet , Sharma Suresh , Kaur Kirandeep , Singh Dharmatma
Published: October 2016

Background and Aim

The introduction of sofosbuvir has revolutionized the treatment of chronic hepatitis C. This study was planned to observe whether the efficacy and tolerability of sofosbuvir‐based regimens demonstrated in phase 3 clinical trial results translate into real‐life clinical practice.

Methods

This prospective, non‐randomized observational study conducted in Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, Punjab, included all consecutive treatment‐naïve patients with chronic hepatitis C (genotypes 1–5) who were treated with sofosbuvir‐based regimens. Response to therapy was assessed at week 4 (rapid virological response), week 12 or 24 (end of treatment response), and 12 weeks after cessation of therapy (sustained virological response [SVR]).

Results

Of 947 patients diagnosed with chronic hepatitis C virus and considered for treatment with direct‐acting antivirals, 736 patients (77.1%) opted for treatment (age 45.1 ± 10.1 years, 64% men, genotype 3 [80%], genotype 1 [14.7%], and genotype 4 [4.9%]). Viral load was high (>600 000 IU/mL) in 361/736 (49%); 330 patients (44.8%) had cirrhosis (80 [14.3%] were decompensated). Patients with genotypes 1, 4, and 5 (n = 135) were treated with triple drug regime (pegylated interferon, ribavirin, and sofosbuvir) for 12 weeks. Patients with genotype 3 (n = 589) were treated either with dual therapy (sofosbuvir and ribavirin) for 24 weeks (n = 405) or triple therapy for 12 weeks (n = 184). SVR was achieved in 453/473 (95.8%). SVR rates did not differ among different genotypes but were higher in non‐cirrhotics.

Conclusion

Sofosbuvir‐based treatment regimens achieve high SVR rates in real‐life cohort of Indian patients with chronic hepatitis C infection (including those with cirrhosis).
The Persistence of Memory: The Quest for Human Origins and Destiny in Andrey Bely's Kotik Letaev and Terrence Malick's The Tree of Life
Authors: Paretsky Albert
Published: October 2016

Andrey Bely's autobiographical novel Kotik Letaev and Terrence Malick's film The Tree of Life do not share a common subtext. Nevertheless, they have strikingly similar themes. They each deal with an adult's confrontation of his past through memory, a memory that extends back before birth. Coming to terms with the past prepares the adult protagonist of each work for his destiny. The essay discusses Malick's use of William Blake's mysticism and Bely's dependence on the religious‐philosophical ideas of Rudolf Steiner. Memory plays an important role in both works as it touches on the recapitulation of cosmic origins in the development of the individual human being. What the quester discovers through memory enables him to find the way back to Eternity from which he has descended. Both artists invoke the World Tree uniting heaven and earth and its association with the Cross of Christ. In both the novel and the film the world is seen first through a child's eyes, then through growing understanding of the adult. Malick illustrates with cinematography what Bely describes in words. Malick uses music in a way that fleshes out what Bely attempted to create through using musical tropes in language.
Unpacking Heat: Dueling Identities and Complex Views on Gun Control among Rural Police
Authors: Woldoff Rachael A. , Litchfield Robert C. , Sycafoose Matthews Angela
Published: October 2016

Using 20 semistructured interviews with police officers from a rural sheriff's department, we present what we believe is the first in‐depth examination of U.S. rural officers’ views on gun control. We find that officers possess complex views about gun control, reflecting their multiple identities as both gun‐oriented rural citizens and police who seek to control the situations they encounter at work. Specifically, we observed that rural police officers: (1) embrace a rural identity that implies support of gun rights over gun control; (2) report that police work experiences have caused them to embrace their police identity and to distance themselves from some gun‐related aspects of rural identity (e.g., they have lost interest in guns over time and have increasingly dissociated from gun‐enthusiast peers); and (3) have learned to incorporate aspects of both identities into their views on gun control, universally advocating for some gun control measures in the name of community safety, but rejecting others as part of rural ideological views about personal freedom. We discuss research and policy implications and suggest that policymakers must better appreciate the nuances and culture of rural places in order to gain rural citizens’ and rural police officers’ support for gun control legislation.
SIGNIFICANT EFFECT OF PH ON PHOTOCATALYTIC DEGRADATION OF ORGANIC POLLUTANTS USING SEMICONDUCTOR CATALYSTS
Authors: Jaafar Nur Farhana , Abdul Jalil Aishah , Triwahyono Sugeng , Ripin Adnan , Wijayanuddin Ali Mohamad
Published: October 2016

Photocatalytic is one of the inexpensive and non-toxic techniques for degradation of organic pollutants into harmless substances such as water and carbon dioxide. In this study, simple electrolysis method was used in preparation of Ag/TiO2 and α-Fe2O3/HY catalysts. The physicochemical properties of the catalysts were studied using XRD, FTIR, FESEM-EDX and surface area analysis. The pH of solution plays an important role in the photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants which influences the surface-charge properties of the catalysts. Ag/TiO2 and α-Fe2O3/HY were used as catalyst on degradation of 2-chlorophenol (2-CP) and methyl orange (MO), respectively. The effect of pH on degradation of 2-CP and MO were investigated over a pH range from 2 to 9. Higher degradation of 2-CP and MO were obtained at pH 5 (74%) and pH 2 (80%), respectively. This finding might be explained by the amphoteric performance of the catalyst using point zero charge (pHZPC). The pHZPC for Ag/TiO2 and α-Fe2O3/HY was found to be at pH 6.3 and pH 7.2, respectively. Hence, the activities of the catalysts may have been affected by the existence of a strong electrostatic field between the positively charged catalysts surface and negatively charged 2-CP and MO caused a pH value lower than their pHZPC give greater degradation.
EFFECT OF SUPPORT ON MOLYBDENUM OXIDE ACIDITY FOR N-HEPTANE ISOMERIZATION
Authors: Abdul Fatah Nor Aiza , Triwahyono Sugeng , Abdul Jalil Aishah
Published: October 2016

Skeletal isomerization of alkanes into the corresponding branched isomers has attracted many attentions as a reaction to produce clean fuel with high octane quality. In this study, molybdenum oxide (MoO3) catalyst supported on mesostructured silica nanoparticles (MSN), HZSM-5 and MCM-41 activity were being tested towards n-heptane isomerization at 623 K. The catalyst acidity was characterized by using FTIR pre-adsorb pyridine. The results showed that MoO3-MSN possesses highest Lewis acid and lowest Brönsted acid concentrations. The catalytic testing towards n-heptane isomerization showed that MoO3-MSN exhibited the highest n-heptane conversion of 18.7 % at 623 K. It was suggested that the high Lewis acid in the MoO3-MSN may facilitate the formation of active protonic acid sites from molecular hydrogen through hydrogen spillover mechanism and hence improves the n-heptane conversion.
SENSITIVITY ANALYSIS OF BIOHYDROGEN PRODUCTION FROM IMPERATA CYLINDRICA USING STOICHIOMETRIC EQUILIBRIUM MODEL
Authors: Oladokun Olagoke , Ahmad Arshad , Tuan Abdullah Tuan Amran , Nyakuma Bemgba Bevan , A. Kamaroddin Mohd Fadhzir , Ahmed Murtala , Alkali Habib
Published: October 2016

This paper investigated the production of biohydrogen from Imperata cylindrica, using stoichiometric equilibrium model. The stoichiometric equilibrium model uses biomass ultimate analysis, thermodynamic equilibrium and elemental balance on biomass gasification reaction. The sensitivity analysis was studied over a wide range of operating conditions involving temperature (250 – 1500 °C), pressure (1 – 5 atm) and Steam to fuel ratio (0-5). The result shows biohydrogen and other biogas product were sensitive to temperature and steam-feed ratio, whereas effect of pressure is negligible. The operating condition for optimal biohydrogen production  in moles (23%) was atmospheric pressure, temperature, 1500 °C and steam-feed ratio, 5. Biogas product mixtures are H2, 23%, CO, 17%, CO2, 12% CH4, 0% and H2O, 60%. Increase in steam-feed ratio (0, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5) significantly increase the biohydrogen by 1381%, 90%, 46%, 31% and 24%. The stoichiometry equilibrium model could effectively be used in determining biohydrogen production and its sensitivity to temperature and steam
EFFECTIVENESS OF BLADE TIP ON LOW SPEED HORIZONTAL AXIS WIND TURBINE PERFORMANCE
Authors: Ariffudin Muhammad Hafidz , Mohd Zawawi Fazila , Mohamed Kamar Haslinda , Kamsah Nazri
Published: October 2016

There has been an increasing demand for renewable energy in order to create a sustainable society as the non-renewable energies such as fossil fuel resources are limited. Modern wind turbines claim that they have a high efficiency in term of wind energy extraction. However, there are still having losses due to tip vortex causing to a reduction in performance.  Motivated by this reason, this research aims at exploring the possibility to increase the performance of low speed small-scaled horizontal axis wind turbine with various tip devices using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). Four wind turbine blades with different tip devices which consist of sword tip, swept tip, upwind winglet and downwind winglet are compared with wind turbine blade without tip device in term of CP. The application of tip device can significantly reduce induced tip vortex and improve wind turbine performance. For TSR below than 4, adding a sword tip increases CP about 7.3%, swept tip increases CP about 9.1%, upwind winglet increases CP about 1.8% and downwind winglet increases CP about 3.2%. It is observed that the best tip device for low wind speed application is swept tip as it give the highest performance increment compared to without tip device.
CONSIDERATION OF CARBON NANOTUBE-BASED NANOFLUID IN THERMAL TRANSFER.
Authors: Mare Thierry , Estelle Patrice , Halelfadl Salma , Mohd Ghazali Normah
Published: October 2016

In the current trend towards demand for effective heat removal of high density heat flux, research into nanofluids have escalated due to the rise in thermal conductivity associated with the coolants. Are nanofluids a solution for a better thermal management? Does the application of nanofluids as coolants have limitations? This article presents a review of the thermophysical properties of carbon nanotube-water nanofluids, in particular the desired properties of low viscosity and high thermal conductivity. The effects of the concentration, temperature, aspect ratio, and surfactant on the thermal conductivity and viscosity of carbon nanotube nanofluid have been studied experimentally. These effects are thendiscussed for evaluation of the applicability of carbon nanotube-based nanofluidas a coolant for heat removal purposes.
FLOW ANALYSIS OF PISTON HEAD GEOMETRY FOR DIRECT INJECTION SPARK IGNITION ENGINE
Authors: Shar Anuar Abdul Rahim , Muhamad Said Mohd Farid , Mohamad Shafie Nur Adila , Abdul Aziz Azhar , Nasution Henry
Published: October 2016

Constructors of gasoline engines face higher and higher requirements as regards to ecological issues, and increase in engine efficiency at simultaneous decrease in fuel consumption. Satisfying these requirements is possible by the recognition of the phenomena occurred inside engine cylinder, the choice of suitable optimal parameters of fuel injection process, and the determination of geometrical shapes of the combustion chamber and piston head. The aim of this study is to simulate flow in Fuel Direct-Injection engine with different geometrical shapes of piston head. Designing piston head shapes was done by referring to existing motorcycle, Demak 200cc-single cylinder using SolidWork and ANSYS software. The parameter investigated are shallow and deep bowl design of piston head. In term of fuel distribution throughout the combustion chamber, engine model that has deeper bowl (Model 2) shows better fuel distribution than model of shallow bowl as it manages to direct the fuel injected towards the location of spark plug. Total kinetic energy of Model 2 is about 20% higher than Model 1. Therefore, engine with deeper bowl is chose as the best model between the two models as it can create a richer mixture around the spark plug
INVESTIGATION ON VOID FRACTION FOR TWO-PHASE FLOW PRESSURE DROP OF EVAPORATIVE R-290 IN HORIZONTAL TUBE
Authors: Pamitran Agus Sunjarianto , Novianto Sentot , Mohd-Ghazali Normah , Nasruddin Nasruddin , Koestoer Raldi
Published: October 2016

Two-phase flow boiling pressure drop experiment was conducted to observe its characteristics and to develop a new correlation of void fraction based on the separated model. Investigation is completed on the natural refrigerant R-290 (propane) in a horizontal circular tube with a 7.6 mm inner diameter under experimental conditions of 3.7 to 9.6 °C saturation temperature, 10 to 25 kW/m2 heat flux, and 185 to 445 kg/m2s mass flux. The present experimental data was used to obtain the calculated void fraction which then was compared to the predicted void fraction with 31 existing correlations. A new void fraction correlation for predicting two-phase flow boiling pressure drop, as a function of Reynolds numbers, was proposed. The measured pressure drop was compared to the predicted pressure drop with some existing pressure drop models that use the newly developed void fraction model. The homogeneous model of void fraction showed the best prediction with 2% deviation
EXPLORING SEULIMEUM FAULT IN ACEH, INDONESIA USING MAGNETIC METHOD
Authors: Mohd Muztaza Nordiana , Zakaria Muhammad Taqiuddin , Saad Rosli , Ismail Nur Azwin , Syukri Muhammad
Published: October 2016

The study explores the use of magnetic method as an alternative measurement device for Seulimeum fault detection and location in Krueng Raya, Ie Seu Um, Iejue, Lamtamot (Aceh Besar) and Tangse, Pidie (Indonesia). The magnetic survey was performed using G-856 proton magnetometer and the spacing between stations was depends on the study location; Krueng Raya (50-300 m spacing randomly), Ie Seu Um (10-30 m randomly), Iejue (50 m), Lamtamot (50-70 m) and Tangse (50-200 m). The magnetic data was processed by utilising Microsoft excels and Surfer 10 software which was displayed in a form of contouring and revealed fault zones. The local magnetic value in Krueng Raya was -700 to 650 nT, Ie Seu Um was -500 to 300 nT, Iejue was -150 to 600 nT, Lamtamot was -200 nT to 200 nT and Tangse was -750 to 350 nT. The magnetic results showed the trend pattern of low and high residual value surround the study area. The highly contrast of magnetic contouring map was interpreted as fault zones. All results show that the trend pattern of fault mapped by magnetic method was trending from northwest to southeast direction. The magnetic residual map was correlated with geological map which show the existence of Seulimeum fault and proved that the study area is bounded by small faults.
GEOPHYSICAL APPLICATIONS FOR BUKIT BUNUH CRATER EVIDENCES
Authors: Andika Fauzi , Saad Rosli , Mohd Muztaza Nordiana , Ismail Nur Azwin , Saidin Mohd Mokhtar
Published: October 2016

Geophysical surveys were conducted in Bukit Bunuh area, Perak to study an hypothesis of the existence of an impact crater and if so, to identify the perimeter of the crater. Four (4) geophysical methods were applied; seismic refraction, 2-D resistivity imaging, gravity and magnetic methods over approximately 132.25 km2 of developed agricultural land, primary jungle and villages of Bukit Bunuh, Perak and its vicinities. The surveys were conducted from May 2011 until July 2013 and have successfully proven the existence of an impact crater. The crater is about 6 km in diameter with a depth of 5 m – 50 m. There are lots of unusual fractured bedrock which represent features associated with impacted event.
DISTRIBUTION OF MAXIMUM PRINCIPAL STRESS UNDER DISTRIBUTED LOAD FROM LOADING PLATE IN SPECIMEN FOR BRAZILIAN TEST
Authors: Tsutsumi Takashi , Kukino Seita , Abdullah Rini Asnida , Mohd Amin Mohd For
Published: October 2016

In this study, the distribution of the maximum principal stress in the specimen is shown under Brazilian test. Generally, Brazilian test is dealt under a pair of concentrated force to obtain the tensile strength. However, it is assumed that the contact area induces between specimen and loading plate. Therefore, the cosine curve is adopted as the distribution of load applied on the loading plates in a theoretical model for Brazilian test. The results from this study are shown in the graphical representation and compared with those under the uniform loading.
STUDY ON WATER QUALITY OF UNCONFINED AND CONFINED AQUIFER IN SELANGOR: AERATION METHOD
Authors: Nik Daud Nik Norsyahariati , Izehar Nur Hazwani
Published: October 2016

The quality of groundwater depends on quality of water recharging the aquifer and the hydrologic and biogeochemical processes in it. In order to treat specific water properties and heavy metals present in groundwater, aeration and filtration process is applied. The objectives of this study are i) to investigate the groundwater properties collected from unconfined and confined aquifer, and ii) to analyze the groundwater properties varied by aeration period in a small tanks. The removal efficiency for turbidity, iron and manganese fall in the range of 25% to 30%, 9% to 66% and 50% to 90% for all samples, respectively. The dissolved oxygen content did influenced the average value of studied parameters, especially for pH value of confined samples, within 3 hours aeration, the value increase from 4.88 to 7.28, which is fulfil the requirement of Malaysian standard. It can be concluded that for all parameters observed, there were changes in values either increased or decreased throughout the aeration and filtration process for both studied aquifers.
EXPERIMENTS ON THE DYNAMICS OF DENSITY CURRENTS
Authors: Nasrollahpour Reza , Jamal Mohamad Hidayat , Ismail Zulhilmi , Mohamed Rusli Nurfarhain
Published: October 2016

Density currents occur when fluid of one density propagates along a horizontal boundary into fluid of a different density. In dam reservoirs, density currents are the main transport mechanism for the incoming sediments and they play an important role in redistribution of existing sediments. This paper aims to investigate velocity structure in the body of density currents. To this end, laboratory experiments were performed on density currents having various initial conditions and bottom slopes. Then, vertical velocity profiles were recorded in the body of density currents. The velocity structure of the currents was investigated by fitting equations to the wall and jet regions of the measured profiles, and the constants of the equations were yielded with R2 more than 0.80. Temporal and spatial evolution of density currents were also analysed to study the dynamics of the frontal region of the currents. It was observed that the currents having more bottom slope travel at a further distance. It was also found that 400% increase in the initial concentration of the currents can increase their frontal velocity up to 97%.
ISO 26000 Constructs In Malaysian Automotive Suppliers: Exploratory And Confirmatory Factor Analysis
Authors: Mohd Fuzi Nursyazwani , Habidin Nurul Fadly , Mohd Zamri Farah Izzaida , Hibadullah Siti Norhafizan , Chiek Desa Auni Fatin Nadia
Published: October 2016

The purpose of this study is to examine ISO 26000 constructs in Malaysian automotive suppliers by using exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis. ISO 26000 provides a guideline for businesses and organizations to operate in a socially responsible way. The demand for ISO 26000 is required for the automotive suppliers, as many car manufacturers require their suppliers to obtain it, particularly for Malaysian automotive suppliers. This research reviews the ISO 26000 literature and proposed two constructs with the recognizing social responsibility and stakeholder identification and engagement. 288 sets of questionnaire were successfully collected which showed 72% response rate from 400 set of questionnaires were distributed to top management of Proton and Perodua automotive suppliers. This paper presents finding of exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) empirically verified and validated. The results indicate that two constructs are acceptable for further analysis.
Mars lander crash adds to 2020 rover worries
Authors: Clery Daniel
Published: October 2016

European rover needs €300 million and uses parts like those on doomed Schiaparelli.
Data Check: How a figure key to new HFC pact was born
Authors: Cornwall Warren
Published: October 2016

Small group of researchers examined how much warming HFC controls could avert.
Pushing the limit
Authors: Vogel Gretchen
Published: October 2016

By culturing human embryos for longer than ever, Magdalena Zernicka-Goetz is revealing their “powerful beauty”—and sparking debate.
The road to speciation runs both ways
Authors: Hoelzel A. Rus
Published: October 2016

Chimpanzees and bonobos show signs of ancestral gene exchange, providing insight into the dynamics of speciation
A finer look at a fine cellular meshwork
Authors: Terasaki Mark
Published: October 2016

The endoplasmic reticulum is imaged at super-resolution