bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrocephalus secondary to obstruction of the lateral apertures in two dogs
Authors: Kent M , Glass EN , Haley AC , Shaikh LS , Sequel M , Blas‐Machado U , Bishop TM , Holmes SP , Platt SR
Published: October 2016

Background

Traditionally, hydrocephalus is divided into communicating or non‐communicating (obstructive) based on the identification of a blockage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow through the ventricular system. Hydrocephalus ex vacuo refers to ventricular enlargement as a consequence of neuroparenchymal loss. Hydrocephalus related to obstruction of the lateral apertures of the fourth ventricles has rarely been described.

Case report

The clinicopathologic findings in two dogs with hydrocephalus secondary to obstruction of the lateral apertures of the fourth ventricle are reported. Signs were associated with a caudal cervical spinal cord lesion in one dog and a caudal brain stem lesion in the other dog. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) disclosed dilation of the ventricular system, including the lateral recesses of the fourth ventricle. In one dog, postmortem ventriculography confirmed obstruction of the lateral apertures. Microscopic changes were identified in the choroid plexus in both dogs, yet a definitive cause of the obstructions was not identified. The MRI findings in both dogs are similar to membranous occlusion of the lateral and median apertures in human patients.

Conclusion

MRI detection of dilation of the entire ventricular system in the absence of an identifiable cause should prompt consideration of an obstruction of the lateral apertures. In future cases, therapeutic interventions aimed at re‐establishing CSF flow or ventriculoperitoneal catheterisation should be considered.
Aesthetic Rating and Color Suggestion for Color Palettes
Authors: Kita N. , Miyata K.
Published: October 2016

A model to rate color combinations that considers human aesthetic preferences is proposed. The proposed method does not assume that a color palette has a specific number of colors, i.e., input is not restricted to a two‐, three‐, or five‐color palettes. We extract features from a color palette whose size does not depend on the number of colors in the palette. The proposed rating prediction model is trained using a human color preference dataset. The model allows a user to extend a color palette, e.g., from three colors to five or seven colors, while retaining color harmony. In addition, we present a color search scheme for a given palette and a customized version of the proposed model for a specific color tone. We demonstrate that the proposed model can also be applied to various palette‐based applications.
3D Body Shapes Estimation from Dressed‐Human Silhouettes
Authors: Song Dan , Tong Ruofeng , Chang Jian , Yang Xiaosong , Tang Min , Zhang Jian Jun
Published: October 2016

Estimation of 3D body shapes from dressed‐human photos is an important but challenging problem in virtual fitting. We propose a novel automatic framework to efficiently estimate 3D body shapes under clothes. We construct a database of 3D naked and dressed body pairs, based on which we learn how to predict 3D positions of body landmarks (which further constrain a parametric human body model) automatically according to dressed‐human silhouettes. Critical vertices are selected on 3D registered human bodies as landmarks to represent body shapes, so as to avoid the time‐consuming vertices correspondences finding process for parametric body reconstruction. Our method can estimate 3D body shapes from dressed‐human silhouettes within 4 seconds, while the fastest method reported previously need 1 minute. In addition, our estimation error is within the size tolerance for clothing industry. We dress 6042 naked bodies with 3 sets of common clothes by physically based cloth simulation technique. To the best of our knowledge, We are the first to construct such a database containing 3D naked and dressed body pairs and our database may contribute to the areas of human body shapes estimation and cloth simulation.
The association of haemophilic arthropathy with Health‐Related Quality of Life: apost hocanalysis
Authors: Fischer K. , de Kleijn P. , Negrier C. , Mauser‐Bunschoten E. P. , van der Valk P. R. , van Galen K. P. M. , Willemze A. , Schutgens R.
Published: October 2016

Background

The aim of replacement therapy in haemophilia is to improve Health‐Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) by preventing bleeding and arthropathy. However, the association of arthropathy with HRQoL is unknown.

Aim

To explore the association of haemophilic arthropathy with HRQoL.

Methods

Apost hocanalysis on patients with severe/moderate haemophilia with SF36 questionnaire (SF36) and X‐rays of ankles, knees and elbows made within 2.5‐years. The SF36 scores of ‘physical functioning’ (SF36‐PF, range 0–100, optimum 100) and Utility (SF6D‐Utility, range 0–1, optimum 1) and radiological Pettersson scores (PS, range 0–78, optimum 0) were calculated. The association of PS with reduced SF6D‐Utility and SF36‐PF (<age‐specific normal values) was analysed using ROC analyses and multivariable logistic regression.

Results

Overall, 176 assessments were analysed: 130 from the Van Creveldkliniek and 46 from a French multicenter study. Most patients had severe haemophilia (89.9%), evaluated at 26.6 years, and with a range 15.7–65.8. Overall PS median (interquartile range) was 16 (7–34), SF6D‐Utility was 0.76 (0.64–0.86) and SF36‐PF was 85 (60–95).

Receiver operating curve analysis identified a threshold PS of 21 points for both SF6D‐Utility (AUC 0.65) and SF36‐PF (AUC 0.76). In patients with PS > 21 points, the risk of reduced SF6D‐Utility was stable (OR 4.16; 95% CI: 2.03–8.51) but SF36‐PF continued to decrease: compared to lowest PS, OR for reduced SF36‐PF was 5.69 (95% CI: 1.62–20.06) for PS 22–39 and 25.15 (95% CI: 6.53–96.81) for PS 40–78.

Conclusion

Health‐Related Quality of Life only showed a significant deterioration in patients with a Pettersson score of >21 points. This suggests that HRQoL is relatively insensitive to early joint changes.
A prospective diagnostic accuracy study evaluating rotational thromboelastometry and thromboelastography in 100 patients with von Willebrand disease
Authors: Schmidt D. E. , Majeed A. , Bruzelius M. , Odeberg J. , Holmström M. , Ågren A.
Published: October 2016

Introduction

Rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM®) and thromboelastography (TEG®) are increasingly used in the perioperative and emergency assessment of bleeding tendencies. The diagnostic value ofROTEMandTEGfor von Willebrand disease (VWD) remains to be established.

Aim

To investigate whetherROTEMandTEGcan discriminate patients withVWDfrom healthy controls.

Methods

Rotational thromboelastometry andTEGwhole blood coagulation profiles were compared betweenVWDpatients (n= 100) and healthy controls (n= 89). Measures of diagnostic accuracy were calculated, including sensitivity, specificity and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

Results

ProlongedTEGR‐time had a positive and negative predictive value (PPV,NPV) of 0.84 and 0.68 respectively.TEGclotting index (CI) had aPPVof 1.00 and anNPVof 0.60. Both R‐time andCIhad a high specificity and accurately discriminatedVWDpatients from healthy controls, with anROCarea under the curve of 0.85 and 0.99 respectively. In multivariate analysis, lowFVIIIlevels, but not von Willebrand factor (VWF) antigen or activity, determined hypocoagulableTEGR (R2= 0.35) andCIlevels (R2= 0.51). TheROTEMcoagulation profiles ofVWDpatients did not differ from healthy controls.

Conclusions

Thromboelastography R andCIaccurately discriminatedVWDpatients from healthy controls, partly through the detection of lowFVIIIlevels. The test's performance may be improved through adjustment of the test thresholds to a local reference population. Both intrinsic pathway‐activated (INTEM) and tissue factor pathway‐activated (EXTEM)ROTEMwere of limited diagnostic value inVWD.
Tannin fraction from Ampelopsis grossedentata leaves tea (Tengcha) as an antioxidant and α‐glucosidase inhibitory nutraceutical
Authors: Geng Sheng , Chen Yongsheng , Abbasi Arshad Mehmood , Ma Hanjun , Mo Haizhen , Liu Benguo
Published: October 2016

Leaf of Ampelopsis grossedentata is a new resource of functional foods with healthful properties. Antioxidant and α‐glucosidase inhibitory activities of water extract (made in the style of drinking), tannin fraction (TF) and dihydromyricetin (DMY) from A. grossedentata leaves were evaluated. The main component of TF was identified as gallotannins. DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activities and reducing power of TF were superior to those of water extract, however, inferior to those of DMY. In no PBS wash protocol of cellular antioxidant activity assay, DMY and TF exhibited similarly, while in PBS wash protocol, the value of TF was higher than that of DMY. In addition, TF possessed the highest α‐glucosidase inhibitory activities (IC50 = 1.94 μg mL−1), followed by water extract (IC50 = 23.10 μg mL−1) and DMY (IC50 = 72.21 μg mL−1). The strong α‐glucosidase inhibitory activity of TF may attribute to the binding capacity to enzymes, as confirmed by fluorescence analysis.
Qualitative exploration of stakeholders’ perspectives of involuntary admission under the Mental Health Act 2001 in Ireland
Authors: Smyth Siobhán , Casey Dympna , Cooney Adeline , Higgins Agnes , McGuinness David , Bainbridge Emma , Keys Mary , Georgieva Irina , Brosnan Liz , Beecher Claire , Hallahan Brian , McDonald Colm , Murphy Kathy
Published: October 2016

There is international interest in, and continued concern about, the potential long‐term impact of involuntary admission to psychiatric institutions, and the effect this coercive action has on a person's well‐being and human rights. Involuntary detention in hospital remains a controversial process that involves stakeholders with competing concerns and who often describe negative experiences of the process, which can have long‐lasting effects on the therapeutic relationship with service users. The aim of the present study was to explore the perspectives of key stakeholders involved in the involuntary admission and detention of people under the Mental Health Act 2001 in Ireland. Focus groups were used to collect data. Stakeholders interviewed were service users, relatives, general practitioners, psychiatrists, mental health nurses, solicitors, tribunal members, and police. Data were analysed using a general inductive approach. Three key categories emerged: (i) getting help; (ii) detention under the Act; and (iii) experiences of the tribunal process. This research highlights gaps in information and uncertainty about the involuntary admission process for stakeholders, but particularly for service users who are most affected by inadequate processes and supports. Mental health law has traditionally focussed on narrower areas of detention and treatment, but human rights law requires a greater refocussing on supporting service users to ensure a truly voluntary approach to care. The recent human rights treaty, the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, is to guarantee a broad range of fundamental rights, such as liberty and integrity, which can be affected by coercive processes of involuntary admission and treatment.
The temperature dependence of the relative grain‐boundary energy of yttria‐doped alumina
Authors: Kelly Madeleine N. , Bojarski Stephanie A. , Rohrer Gregory S.
Published: October 2016

Atomic force microscopy was used to measure the dimensions of grain‐boundary thermal grooves on the surfaces of Al2O3, 100 ppm Y‐doped Al2O3, and 500 ppm Y‐doped Al2O3 ceramics heated at temperatures between 1350°C and 1650°C. The measurements were used to estimate the relative grain‐boundary energies as a function of temperature. The relative grain‐boundary energies of Al2O3 decrease slightly with increased temperature. When the doped samples were heated, there was an overall increase in the grain‐boundary energy, attributed to a reduction in the grain boundary excess at higher temperature. The overall trend of increasing grain‐boundary energy was interrupted by abrupt reductions in grain‐boundary energy between 1450°C and 1550°C. In the same temperature range, there is an abrupt increase in the grain‐boundary mobility that is associated with a complexion transition. When the 100 ppm Y‐doped sample was cooled, there was a corresponding increase in the relative grain‐boundary energy at the same complexion transition temperature, indicating that the transition is reversible.
Music therapy for children and adolescents with behavioural and emotional problems: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Porter Sam , McConnell Tracey , McLaughlin Katrina , Lynn Fiona , Cardwell Christopher , Braiden Hannah‐Jane , Boylan Jackie , Holmes Valerie ,   the Music in Mind Study Group
Published: October 2016

Background

Although music therapy (MT) is considered an effective intervention for young people with mental health needs, its efficacy in clinical settings is unclear. We therefore examined the efficacy of MT in clinical practice.

Methods

Two hundred and fifty‐one child (8–16 years, with social, emotional, behavioural and developmental difficulties) and parent dyads from six Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service community care facilities in Northern Ireland were randomised to 12 weekly sessions of MT plus usual care [n = 123; 76 in final analyses] or usual care alone [n = 128; 105 in final analyses]. Follow‐up occurred at 13 weeks and 26 weeks postrandomisation. Primary outcome was improvement in communication (Social Skills Improvement System Rating Scales) (SSIS) at 13 weeks. Secondary outcomes included social functioning, self‐esteem, depression and family functioning.

Results

There was no significant difference for the child SSIS at week 13 (adjusted difference in mean 2.4; 95% CI −1.2 to 6.1; p = .19) or for the guardian SSIS (0.5; 95% CI −2.9 to 3.8; p = .78). However, for participants aged 13 and over in the intervention group, the child SSIS communication was significantly improved (6.1, 95% CI 1.6 to 10.5; p = .007) but not the guardian SSIS (1.1; 95% CI −2.9 to 5.2; p = .59). Overall, self‐esteem was significantly improved and depression scores were significantly lower at week 13. There was no significant difference in family or social functioning at week 13.

Conclusions

While the findings provide some evidence for the integration of music therapy into clinical practice, differences relating to subgroups and secondary outcomes indicate the need for further study. ISRCTN Register; ISRCTN96352204.
Ledipasvir/sofosbuvir with or without ribavirin for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C genotype 1: A pairwise meta‐analysis
Authors: Ferreira Vinicius L , Assis Jarek Nayara A , Tonin Fernanda S , Borba Helena H L , Wiens Astrid , Muzzillo Dominique A , Pontarolo Roberto
Published: October 2016

Background and Aim

Ledipasvir with sofosbuvir (LED/SOF) for the treatment of patients infected with genotype 1 hepatitis C virus can be used with or without ribavirin (RBV). RBV is well known to promote significant adverse events (AE). The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of treatment with LED/SOF, with or without RBV, in patients infected with hepatitis C virus genotype 1.

Methods

We performed a systematic review followed by a pairwise meta‐analysis including randomized controlled trials that reported efficacy (rapid virological response, sustained virological response at 4 and 12 weeks post‐treatment (SVR4 and 12), and viral relapse) and safety outcomes (any AE, serious AE, discontinuation owing to AE, anemia, and rash). It was performed a subgroup analysis evaluating the SVR12 including only cirrhotic patients. Results were reported as risk ratios (RR) and with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI).

Results

Seven randomized controlled trials were analyzed. LED/SOF with RBV showed a worse safety profile when compared with LED/SOF without RBV for the following outcomes: any AE (RR 0.56 [95% CI 0.46–0.69]), anemia (RR 0.08 [95% CI 0.04–0.17]), and rash (RR 0.35 [95% CI 0.19–0.65]). No significant differences were observed regarding serious AE, rapid virological response, SVR4, SVR12, or viral relapse. The subgroup analysis did not show significant differences between either treatment groups.

Conclusion

Administration of LED/SOF + RBV to treatment‐naïve patients with or without cirrhosis, and non‐cirrhotic treatment‐experienced patients, did not promote significant additional benefits. Furthermore, it is still unclear whether cirrhotic treatment‐experienced patients could benefit from combined therapy.
Regional Nerve Blocks Improve Pain and Functional Outcomes in Hip Fracture: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Morrison R. Sean , Dickman Eitan , Hwang Ula , Akhtar Saadia , Ferguson Taja , Huang Jennifer , Jeng Christina L. , Nelson Bret P. , Rosenblatt Meg A. , Silverstein Jeffrey H. , Strayer Reuben J. , Torrillo Toni M. , Todd Knox H.
Published: October 2016

Objectives

To compared outcomes of regional nerve blocks with those of standard analgesics after hip fracture.

Design

Multisite randomized controlled trial from April 2009 to March 2013.

Setting

Three New York hospitals.

Participants

Individuals with hip fracture (N = 161).

Intervention

Participants were randomized to receive an ultrasound‐guided, single‐injection, femoral nerve block administered by emergency physicians at emergency department (ED) admission followed by placement of a continuous fascia iliaca block by anesthesiologists within 24 hours (n = 79) or conventional analgesics (n = 82).

Measurements

Pain (0–10 scale), distance walked on Postoperative Day (POD) 3, walking ability 6 weeks after discharge, opioid side effects.

Results

Pain scores 2 hours after ED presentation favored the intervention group over controls (3.5 vs 5.3, P = .002). Pain scores on POD 3 were significantly better for the intervention than the control group for pain at rest (2.9 vs 3.8, P = .005), with transfers out of bed (4.7 vs 5.9, P = .005), and with walking (4.1 vs 4.8, P = .002). Intervention participants walked significantly further than controls in 2 minutes on POD 3 (170.6 feet, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 109.3–232 vs 100.0 feet, 95% CI = 65.1–134.9; P = .04). At 6 weeks, intervention participants reported better walking and stair climbing ability (mean Functional Independence Measure locomotion score of 10.3 (95% CI = 9.6–11.0) vs 9.1 (95% CI = 8.2–10.0), P = .04). Intervention participants were significantly less likely to report opioid side effects (3% vs 12.4%, P = .03) and required 33% to 40% fewer parenteral morphine sulfate equivalents.

Conclusion

Femoral nerve blocks performed by emergency physicians followed by continuous fascia iliaca blocks placed by anesthesiologists are feasible and result in superior outcomes.
Carcass utilization by tigers: implications for calculating prey requirements
Authors: Fàbregas M. C. , Garcés‐Narro C. , Bertschinger H. , Koehler G.
Published: October 2016

Fewer than 3500 tigers (Panthera tigris) remain in the wild. Habitat loss and fragmentation, and depletion of prey are key factors contributing to their decline, prompting investigations on prey requirements needed to sustain their dwindling populations. To estimate prey requirements from consumption rates, the non‐consumed portion of a carcass (NCP) or degree of carcass utilization is required as, depending on prey size, part of the kill might not be consumed. Because NCPs for tigers have never been systematically estimated, the aim of this study was to develop a model to calculate NCPs based on prey body mass, and to determine whether the NCPs used in current tiger literature were accurate. Additionally, we applied the model to two tiger reserves to test if our results improved prey requirement estimates calculated with current NCPs. The study took place at Laohu Valley Reserve (South Africa), where four male and five female tigers were fed fresh carcasses of six ungulate species. Each prey carcass was weighed prior to feeding to tigers and once abandoned, the remains were weighed allowing the weight consumed minus the gastrointestinal contents to be calculated. We observed a strong positive relationship between prey body mass and NCP. For large prey, prey requirement estimates obtained with the NCPs yielded by our model were very similar to those obtained with the NCPs used in current tiger literature. However, differences increased for smaller prey, and for those species that comprised a high percentage of the tiger diet. In summary, we provide a model to calculate NCPs based on prey body mass, and demonstrate the importance of using specific values of NCPs in calculating prey requirements from consumption rates. These results could be useful for other large carnivores, as well as for calculating feed portions for large predators in captive settings.
Food availability and population structure: How do clumped and abundant sources of carrion affect the genetic diversity of the black‐backed jackal?
Authors: James R. S. , Scott D. M. , Yarnell R. W. , Overall A. D. J.
Published: October 2016

Carnivores frequently come into conflict with humans in agricultural and livestock‐producing areas around the world. Understanding their fidelity and dispersal patterns in response to food availability is therefore important given the effort invested in conflict mitigation strategies. In this study, we investigated the influence of clumped and abundant sources of carrion on the genetic diversity of the black‐backed jackal Canis mesomelas within six private game farms in the North‐West and Gauteng provinces of South Africa. It is predicted that clumped and abundant sources of carrion will increase immigration and thus genetic diversity in the local subpopulation. By quantifying the variability in microsatellite loci in black‐backed jackals subjected to artificially increased carrion availability, and comparing them with individuals from control sites, we were able to describe patterns of historic gene flow within the total sampled population. The results of this investigation indicate that clumped and abundant sources of carrion promote genetic structuring (FST = 0.0302) which implies a lack of gene flow and a degree of isolation. Genetic artefacts of three populations could be identified through Bayesian clustering analysis of individuals based on their genetic identity. Individuals sampled from the two supplementary feeding sites could be assigned to one of two ancestral populations with an average population assignment of 69 and 82%, while individuals from the remaining four control sites, originate from a third population with percentage assignments of 63%, 46%, 53% and 42%. It is therefore likely that clumped and abundant sources of carrion in the agricultural landscape of South Africa can affect the population dynamics of the black‐backed jackal and result in subpopulations with limited migration and dispersal when compared with the total population.
Mayan phonology
Authors: Bennett Ryan
Published: October 2016

This paper presents an overview of the phonetics and phonology of Mayan languages. The focus is primarily descriptive, but the article also attempts to frame the sound patterns of Mayan languages within a larger typological and theoretical context. Special attention is given to areas which are ripe for further descriptive or theoretical investigation.
Impact of integrated child development scheme on child malnutrition in West Bengal, India
Authors: Dutta Arijita , Ghosh Smritikana
Published: October 2016

With child malnutrition detected as a persistent problem in most of the developing countries, public policy has been directed towards offering community‐based supplementary feeding provision and nutritional information to caregivers. India, being no exception, has initiated these programs as early as 1970s under integrated child development scheme. Using propensity score matching technique on primary data of 390 households in two districts of West Bengal, an Eastern state in India, the study finds that impact of being included in the program and receiving supplementary feeding is insignificant on child stunting measures, though the program can break the intractable barriers of child stunting only when the child successfully receives not only just the supplementary feeding but also his caregiver collects crucial information on nutritional awareness and growth trajectory of the child. Availability of regular eggs in the feeding diet too can reduce protein‐related undernutrition. Focusing on just feeding means low depth of other services offered under integrated child development scheme, including pre‐school education, nutritional awareness, and hygiene behavior; thus repealing a part of the apparent food‐secure population who puts far more importance on the latter services.
Population genomics fits the bill: genetics of adaptive beak variation in Darwin's finches
Authors: Mundy Nicholas I.
Published: October 2016

Darwin's finches are an iconic case of adaptive radiation. The size and shape of their beaks are key adaptive traits related to trophic niche that vary among species and evolve rapidly when the food supply changes. Building on recent studies, a paper in this issue of Molecular Ecology (Chaves et al. ) investigates the genomic basis of beak size variation in sympatric populations of three species of ground finch (Geospiza) by performing a Genome‐wide association study using RAD‐seq data. The authors find that variation in a small number of markers can explain a substantial proportion of variation in beak size. Some of these markers are in genomic regions that have previously been implicated in beak size variation in Darwin's finches, whereas other markers have not, suggesting both conservation and divergence in the genetic basis of morphological evolution. Overall, the study confirms that loci of large effect are involved in beak size variation, which helps to explain the high heritability and rapid response to selection of this trait. The independent identification of regions containing HMGA2 and DLK1 loci in a GWAS makes them prime targets for functional studies. The study also shows that under the right conditions, RAD‐seq can be a viable alternative to genome sequencing for GWAS in wild vertebrate populations.
Forest ecosystems of temperate climatic regions: from ancient use to climate change
Authors: Gilliam Frank S.
Published: October 2016

Humans have long utilized resources from all forest biomes, but the most indelible anthropogenic signature has been the expanse of human populations in temperate forests. The purpose of this review is to bring into focus the diverse forests of the temperate region of the biosphere, including those of hardwood, conifer and mixed dominance, with a particular emphasis on crucial challenges for the future of these forested areas. Implicit in the term ‘temperate’ is that the predominant climate of these forest regions has distinct cyclic, seasonal changes involving periods of growth and dormancy. The specific temporal patterns of seasonal change, however, display an impressive variability among temperate forest regions. In addition to the more apparent current anthropogenic disturbances of temperate forests, such as forest management and conversion to agriculture, human alteration of temperate forests is actually an ancient phenomenon, going as far back as 7000 yr before present (bp). As deep‐seated as these past legacies are for temperate forests, all current and future perturbations, including timber harvesting, excess nitrogen deposition, altered species’ phenologies, and increasing frequency of drought and fire, must be viewed through the lens of climate change.

Contents

Summary
871

I.
Introduction
871

II.
A brief biogeography and history of temperate forests
874

III.
Climate, soils, composition and land use
875

IV.
Climate change
878

V.
Epilogue
882

Acknowledgements
884

References
884
Eosinophilic esophagitis: current perspectives from diagnosis to management
Authors: Moawad Fouad J. , Cheng Edaire , Schoepfer Alain , Al‐Haddad Sahar , Bellizzi Andrew M. , Dawson Heather , El‐Zimaity Hala , Guindi Maha , Penagini Roberto , Safrooneva Ekaterina , Chehade Mirna
Published: October 2016

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic antigen‐mediated immune disease of the esophagus characterized by symptoms related to esophageal dysfunction, as well as significant esophageal eosinophilia. Although dense eosinophilia is the hallmark of EoE, other characteristic histologic features have been described that may help distinguish EoE from other competing diagnoses, although none are specific to EoE. One or more foods and, at times, environmental allergens trigger EoE. Left untreated, esophageal inflammation in EoE may lead to esophageal remodeling and stricture formation. Symptoms in EoE vary with age, as they relate to the progression of the disease from an inflammatory to a fibrostenotic phenotype over time. There are currently no U.S. Food and Drug Administration–approved therapies for EoE. Current options include various dietary‐restriction therapies, topical corticosteroids, and esophageal dilations. Several emerging therapies aiming at restoring the esophageal barrier function or targeting various inflammatory cells or their mediators are under investigation.
Indium Mineralization in Copper–Tin Stratiform Skarn Ores at the Saishitang–Rilonggou Ore Field, Qinghai, Northwest China
Authors: Liu Jianping , Gu Xiangping , Shao Yongjun , Feng Yuzhou , Lai Jianqing
Published: October 2016

The Saishitang–Rilonggou Ore Field (SROF), which includes the Saishitang, Tongyugou, and Rilonggou ore deposits as well as other scattered occurrences, is located in the Elashan region in Qinghai Province, and is a significant Cu–Sn ore field in NW China. These ores are hosted in stratiform skarn deposits with the main metals being Cu and Sn, as well as Zn, Pb, Au, Ag, and trace elements (e.g. Ga, Ge, Se, and In). Bulk‐rock geochemical analyses of 50 ore samples from the three deposits show that In contents in the Saishitang deposit range from 0.03 to 39 ppm (average 12.7 ppm, n = 19), with 1000 In/Zn values that vary from >0.01 to 29.83 (average 4.29). Indium contents in the Tongyugou deposit vary from 7.51 to 131 ppm (average 28.37 ppm, n = 13), with 1000 In/Zn values from 0.74 to 48 (average 17.55). Finally, indium contents in the Rilonggou deposit vary from 0.73 to 120 ppm (average 36.15 ppm, n = 18), with 1000 In/Zn values from 0.33 to 47 (average 8.52). Indium is hosted mainly in sphalerite, while some other In‐bearing minerals (e.g., roquesite, stannoidite, and stannite) are present locally within the ore field. Roquesite, which replace or fill bornite, occurs in bornite‐rich ores in the Saishitang deposit. This is the first reported Chinese locality of roquesite. Based on previously reported Zn resources, a total of 136 tons of In is calculated to be hosted in the SROF, with 30, 66, and 40 tons of In attributed to the Saishitang, Tongyugou, and Rilonggou deposits, respectively. The differences in indium contents among the deposits and their respective geological histories and characteristics suggest that the origin of indium relates to volcanogenic metallogenesis in an early Permian volcano‐sedimentary basin. Based on the evaluation of In resources, future mining operations should include the recovery of indium in the Tongyugou and Rilonggou deposits.
The Nucleus Deposit: Superposed Au–Ag–Bi–Cu Mineralization Systems at Freegold Mountain, Yukon, Canada
Authors: Bineli Betsi Thierry , Lentz David R. , Mcfarlane Chris
Published: October 2016

In this paper we present titanite U–Pb (both single crystal CA ID‐TIMS and in situ LA ICP‐MS) data, coupled with ore and gangue mineralogy and geochemical (both lithogeochemistry and microanalysis) data from the Nucleus Au–Ag–Bi–Cu deposit, in the Yukon (Canada) portion of the Tintina Au province. Arsenic‐bearing Au–Ag–Bi–Cu mineralization at Nucleus consists of two distinct styles of mineralization including: (i) reduced Au skarn and sulfide replacement; and (ii) a relatively shallow‐emplaced (as supported by textures and temperature of formation), vein‐controlled mineralization occurring mainly as veins and veinlets of various shapes (sheeted, single, stockworks, and crustiform), breccias, and disseminations. Whereas Au, Bi, and Cu mineralization from skarn is associated with hydrous retrograde alteration phases (actinolite, ferro‐actinolite, hastingsite, cannilloite, and hornblende), numerous alteration types are associated with the vein‐controlled style of mineralization and these include: biotite, phyllic, argillic, propylitic, carbonate, and quartz (silicification) alterations. The mineralization–alteration processes took place over a wide temperature range that is bracketed between 340 and 568°C, as indicated by chlorite and arsenopyrite geothermometers. The Au‐rich Nucleus deposit is characterized by anomalously high content of As and Bi (as much as 1 %), and whereas Au moderately correlates with Bi (r = 0.40) in the skarn mineralization style (where native Au is spatially associated with native Bi and Bi‐bearing sulfides), the two elements correlate poorly (r = 0.14) in the vein‐controlled type, in which native Bi‐ and Bi‐sulfide‐bearing veins are locally observed. Sphalerite from the vein‐controlled mineralized type is Fe‐rich (9.92–10.54 mol % FeS) indicative of low sulfidation conditions, as well as high temperature, with the latter further supported by arsenopyrite geothermometry (up to 491°C), low Ag content (3–7 wt.%) in Au, and the high gold fineness (926–964). Whereas molybdenite Re–Os ages from quartz‐molybdenite veins range from 75.8 to 76.2 ± 0.3 Ma, titanite from the skarn type mineralization recorded CA ID‐TIMS and LA ICP‐MS U–Pb ages of 182.6 ± 2.4 Ma and 191.0 ± 1.5 Ma, respectively, thus precluding any genetic link between the two spatially associated styles of mineralization from the Nucleus deposit area. The Au–Ag–Bi–Cu Nucleus deposit is therefore regarded as a superposed system in which two mineralization types, without any petrogenetic relationship, overlapped, possibly with remobilization of early‐formed mineralization.
Tumor regrowth and development of keratinocytic neoplasms in patients under smoothened inhibition: in vivo assessment with reflectance confocal microscopy
Authors: Alarcon I. , Pasquali P. , Malvehy J. , Puig S.
Published: October 2016

Background

The regrowth of a tumor after complete clinical response and the development of keratinocytic neoplasms while patients are still undergoing continuous vismodegib have stressed the importance of the accurate monitoring to detect recurrences earlier and ensure the best possible outcome.

Objective

The objective of this study was to determine the role of reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) in monitoring the response of locally advanced basal cell carcinoma (laBCC) to vismodegib and to discard secondary resistance.

Methods

Seven patients presenting with nine laBCC, were prospectively included and their response to this drug was assessed by means of clinical examination, dermoscopy, and RCM. The study was conducted at the Melanoma Unit in Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, between June 2012 and March 2013.

Results

Histologically confirmed lesion 10 mm or larger in diameter for which surgery was contraindicated and radiation therapy was inappropriate. The median patient age was 73 years and the most common histological type was infiltrating BCC. RCM allowed the identification of residual tumor in two lesions and to confirm complete response in the other four cases. Two patients developed new lesions within the tumor bed, they were assessed by RCM showing features of actinic keratosis which were confirmed by histopathology.

Conclusion

The use of in vivo RCM allowed the characterization of the dynamic morphologic changes in tumor response helping to better define partial response and to differentiate it from secondary resistance. Another interesting observation was the recognition of a phenomenon characterized by the development of keratinocytic neoplasms within the tumor bed.
COMPARISON OF FLOW FIELD BETWEEN STEADY AND UNSTEADY FLOW OF AN AUTOMOTIVE MIXED FLOW TURBOCHARGER TURBINE
Authors: Padzillah M.H. , Rajoo S. , Martinez-Botas R.F.
Published: October 2016

Global decarbonizing efforts in transportation industry have forced the automotive manufacturers to opt for highly downsized high power-to-weight ratio engines. Since its invention, turbocharger remains as integral element in order to achieve this target. However, although it has been proven that a turbocharger turbine works in highly pulsatile environment, it is still designed under steady state assumption. This is due to the lack of understanding on the nature of pulsating flow field within the turbocharger turbine stage. This paper presents an effort to visualize the pulsating flow feature using experimentally validated Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations. For this purpose, a lean-vaned mixed-flow turbine with rotational speed of 30000 rpm at 20 Hz flow frequency, which represent turbine operation for 3-cylinder 4-stroke engine operating at 800 rpm has been used. Results indicated that the introduction of pulsating flow has resulted in more irregular pattern of flow field as compared to steady flow operation. It has also been indicated that the flow behaves very differently between pressure increment and decrement instances. During the pressure decrement instance, flow blockage in terms of low pressure region occupies most of the turbine passage as the flow exit the turbine.
INTRUSION OF POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL DURING OSMOTIC TESTS: IDENTIFYING CELLULOSE ACETATE DEGRADING MICROBES
Authors: Mohd Tadza Mohd Yuhyi , Asras Mohd Fazli Farida , Mohd Tadza Muhammad Afiq , Ismail Jamil , Mahazam Nurhidayah , Mohd Azmi Nurul Syafiqah
Published: October 2016

Cellulose acetate semipermeable membranes and polyethylene glycol (PEG) solutions are commonly used to apply suction in soils using the osmotic technique. The structural integrity of the membrane is crucial to maintain a consistent suction value throughout a test. The membrane however, is vulnerable to microbial attack, which in turn could lead to intrusion of PEG into soil specimens. In this study, osmotic test was carried out on initially saturated Andrassy bentonite specimen. PEG 6000 and membrane with molecular weight cut-off (MWCO) value of 3500 was used to apply suction of 3.4 MPa. Soil specimen and PEG solution after the osmotic test were examined for the presence of any potential cellulose or acetate degrading microbes. Test results indicated that cellulose degrading fungi such as Paecilomyces L. and Trichoderma A. were observed in the PEG solutions. Addition of penicillin was found to be less effective in removing these microbes. However, 70% ethanol may be used to prevent cross contamination during handling of specimens. It is anticipated that eliminating these microbes is crucial to prevent intrusion of PEG in osmotic tests
EFFECTS OF UPSTREAM SLOPE OF CLAY CORE AND HEIGHT OF THE ROCK FILL DAMS AGAINST HYDRAULIC FRACTURING
Authors: Djarwadi Didiek , Suryolelono Kabul Basah , Suhendro Bambang , Hardiyatmo Hari Christady
Published: October 2016

Hydraulic fracturing in rock fill dams may occur in case where the upstream face of the clay core experiencing tension cracks due to the arching effects and water pressure from the reservoir. One of the causes of arching effects was the steep slope of the upstream clay core. A statistical research on the dam experiencing with hydraulic fracturing indicated that rock fill dams with un-compacted rock fill embankment zone with narrow and steep slope of core, where the ratio between height against base width of core > 2 were considered much more likely for hydraulic fracturing to occur, while if the ratio was between 1 to 2 were considered likely to occur. This paper investigates the height limitation of the rock fill dams on the ratio of the height against the base width of core of 2.00 and 2.50, which represent the conditions of more likely and much more likely hydraulic fracturing to occur. The clay cores were obtained from five (5) major dams in Indonesia; Batubulan, Batutegi, Pelaparado, Sermo and Wonorejo dams, where their heights vary from 37 m to 125 m. The variation of the clay core embankment materials was made in six (6) various fine contents, and compacted at their optimum moisture contents. Analysis was made on the modeled rock fill dam using finite element analysis with coupling of the stress, the deformation and the seepage analyses. The hydraulic fracturing may occur in case the vertical effective stresses in the upstream face of clay core were less than the water pressure from the reservoir. The results indicated that the maximum dam height with no hydraulic fracturing was governed by the percentage of fines in the clay core and the ratio of the height to the base width of the clay core. The clay core that consists of more fine contents, and smaller ratio of height against the base width of the clay core of the dam has greater resistance against hydraulic fracturing.
IN-SITU STRESS MEASUREMENT BY OVERCORING AND HYDRAULIC FRACTURING OF PAHANG-SELANGOR RAW WATER TRANSFER PROJECT
Authors: Azit Romziah , Mohamad Ismail Mohd Ashraf , Mahmood Norzani
Published: October 2016

Estimation of in-situ stress orientation and magnitude is necessary for assessing the excavation risks for Pahang-Selangor Raw Water Transfer (PSRWT) tunnel project. However, the in-situ stress state of the rock generally differs according to area and depth. Therefore, the in-situ stress measurements test in the tunnel are determined in three (3) locations, which are at Adit 2, TBM 2, and Adit 3, in which the overburdens are 227, 1130, and 570 m, respectively. The stress relief method of overcoring technique and hydraulic fracturing by high stiffness system were applied for this project. The results demonstrate that the existence of high vertical stress was estimated in particular in the TBM 2. The maximum principal stress is determined nearly along the vertical direction. Meanwhile, the stress in the horizontal plane is relatively small, and the horizontal to vertical stress ratio is less than one (1). The direction of the horizontal stress obtained is N8E, N14W, and N41E. Results indicate that this method is suitable for estimating in-situ stresses in deep tunnels. The above data and their interpretations enhance the stress database for Peninsular Malaysia
FLOOD FLOW CHARACTERISTICS AND BED LOAD TRANSPORT IN NON-VEGETATED COMPOUND STRAIGHT CHANNELS
Authors: Jumain Mazlin , Ibrahim Zulkiflee , Ismail Zulhilmi , Samsudin Mohd Fuad , Tajol Anuar Muhd Zubair , Harun Sobri , Makhtar Md Ridzuan , Abd Rahman Mohd Suhaimi
Published: October 2016

Floods are the most common natural disasters in Malaysia and have damaged structures, infrastructures, crops and even causes fatalities. It may also lead to erosion and sedimentation in rivers and this will result to complex river behaviour.  A hydraulic laboratory experimental study was carried out. Also, flood flow and sediment transport in straight compound channels involving flow resistance, distribution of depth-averaged velocity, stream-wise vorticity patterns, channel bed morphology and bed load transport rate in non-vegetated compound straight mobile bed channels were investigated. The finding showed that the Darcy Weisbach friction factor  f  increased by 40% and 54% for floodplain and main channel, respectively when relative flood flow depth increase from 0.30 to 0.50. The small bed load transport rates of 0.09 g/s and 0.03 g/s for shallow and deep overbank flows, respectively were measured due to effect of very gentle or mild channel bed slope which was fixed at a gradient of 0.1%.
PORT CAPACITY FORECASTING AND THE IMPACT OF THE DREDGING WORKS ON PORT SEA OPERATIONS USING DISCRETE EVENT SIMULATION
Authors: Souf-Aljen Atef Salem , Maimun Adi , Rahimuddin Rahimuddin , Zairie Noor
Published: October 2016

Continuous capacity expansion is vital for ports to handle future growth due to the  increase in volume of maritime transport and size of the vessels. Some improvements and developments are required for the port to enhance its capacity throughput. In order to accommodate huge vessels without any restrictions, there is a need to deepen the channels. Furthermore, there is also need to widen the channel to prevent congestions. However, dredging work for deepening the harbour waters will reduce the utilization of the berths and navigational areas. This will significantly affect the port capacity and hence its income. In this paper a simulation program based on queuing theory and discrete event simulation is developed and used for forecasting port throughput and simulating dredging conditions. Data from a container port and an Automatic Identification System (AIS) were utilised to develop the simulation program in MATLAB-Simulink. Using this tool, port capacity was simulated and the effect of dredging on port capacity was studied. An appropriate period of time needed for dredging is determined by taking into considerations the blocking of some berths and limiting the number of vessels passing the channels during the dredging operations. The results from the simulations could then be used for planning the dredging works
RAINFALL ANALYSIS OF THE KELANTAN BIG YELLOW FLOOD 2014
Authors: Alias Nor Eliza , Mohamad Hazim , Chin Wan Yoke , Yusop Zulkifli
Published: October 2016

In December 2014, Kelantan was hit by the worst flood ever recorded. Did the rainfall exceed historical records, how rare are they and what causes them? This paper answers these questions. Estimation of the return periods uses the GEV distribution model and stations with more than 25 years records. Spatial distribution plots of the cumulated rainfall depths were constructed using IDW interpolation method. Four major outcomes are: 1) Spatial rainfall patterns show high amounts of rainfall accumulated by phases (Phase 1- daily rainfall up to 300 mm; Phase 2- daily rainfall up to 500 mm); 2) record breaking rainfall events occurred at 9 stations significantly at Gunung Gagau (1598.9 mm compared to 976.5 mm 7-day cumulated rainfall). Many stations upstream of the river basin experienced ARIs near and over 100 years and several experienced more than 200 years; and 4) Enhanced rainfall were experienced due to the combined effect of the monsoon season, Madden Julian Oscillation and temperature below anomalies at the Siberian High
REFERENCE EVAPOTRANSPIRATION (ETO) IN TROPICAL FORESTED AREAS DETERMINED BY PENMAN-MONTEITH MODEL IN CROPWAT SOFTWARE
Authors: Shamsuddin Siti Aisah , Mohamed Amran Maryam Jamilah
Published: October 2016

Reference evapotranspiration (ETₒ) was determined using the Penman-Monteith (P-M) combination equation established in the CROPWAT software v.8 (FAO 1992). The objective of the study is to determine the ETₒ at Bukit Tarek Experimental Watershed, Kerling, Selangor (BTEW), Matang Mangrove at Kuala Sepetang, Perak (MMP) and FRIM Mata Ayer Research Station, Perlis (MAP) using five-year periods of daily weather secondary data. Results showed that ETₒ of 4.10 mm/day at MMP was the highest compared to MAP (3.70 mm/day) and BTEW (3.58 mm/day). The geographical latitude influenced the ETₒ values. The ETo at BTEW was compared with the evapotranspiration (ET) calculated from water balance method which is also at the same location for data period from 1990 to 1994. Results showed that annual average ET was 1552 mm (56.1% of rainfall) while ETo was 43.9% of rainfall only. The annual averages of ET ranged from 3.92 to 4.69 mm day-1 with an average of 4.27 mm day-1. The annual average of ETo was underestimated ET from water balance method ranging from 16.6 to 26.2%. It is expected that the ETo found was underestimated as the actual evapotranspiration requires changes in canopy resistance as function of water availability