bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simple Method of Approximate Calculation of Statically Indeterminate Trusses
Authors: Rębielak Janusz
Published: April 2018

The paper presents principles of the simple method which makes possible approximate calculations of statically indeterminate truss systems in two stages. The two-stage method applies rules of other methods used for calculations of statically determinate trusses. In each of the two stages, there are considered statically determinate trusses, patterns of which are obtained as results of suitable withdrawing of appropriate members from the pattern of the basic statically indeterminate truss. There are presented results of calculations carried out for two cases of load for selected type of plane truss together with comparison of outcomes obtained by means of using appropriate computer software.
Simulation of Ceramic Grinding Mechanism Based on Discrete Element Method
Authors: Tan Yuanqiang , Zhang Cong , Jiang Shengqiang , Feng Y. T.
Published: April 2018

The grinding mechanism is the base of developing new precision machining technology, especially for brittle materials including ceramics. In previous work, many results were gained from single grit cutting model in which a grit is in contact continuously with a workpiece, similar to the indentation or scratching process, to model the material remove in grinding processing. However, the abrasives are distributed randomly on the surface of the grinding wheel, and they will impact the workpiece periodically in the grinding process. In this study, the discrete element method was introduced to simulate the mechanics behavior of [Formula: see text] ceramic. The model was validated by simulating indentation test. Both linear scratching test and pendulum scratching test have been simulated in this paper to model the grinding process. The cracks initiation and propagation were also investigated. This study has demonstrated that we should pay close attention to pendulum scratching test to explore the grinding mechanism, and concentrate on cracks initiation and propagation.
DETERMINANTS OF PROPENSITY VS. INTENSITY OF INNOVATION CO-OPERATION FOR SMEs
Authors: CLOUTIER AMELIE , AMARA NABIL
Published: April 2018

For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), innovation co-operation represents a promising avenue to get around limitations and increase their innovation capacity. But under which conditions are firms more susceptible to engage in such ventures? The purpose of this research paper is to further our understanding of the factors contributing to innovation co-operation for manufacturing SMEs from the firm’s perspective. Following an online and telephone survey with SME managers ([Formula: see text]), we studied the presence or absence of innovation co-operation. We subsequently investigated the intensity of innovation co-operation with market partners (clients, competitors, consultants, and suppliers) and research partners (laboratories, post-secondary education institutions, technology transfer centers, and universities), addressing gaps in a literature dominated by binary analysis. Our empirical analyses suggest that innovation co-operation is promoted by several key determinants. However, it highlights there are many important differences in the determinants of propensity vs. intensity of innovation co-operation.
Analysis of Subaerial Landslide Data Using Nonlinear Fourier Transform Based on Korteweg-deVries Equation (KdV-NLFT)
Authors: Brühl Markus , Becker Matthias
Published: April 2018

Subaerial and underwater landslides, rock falls and glacier calvings can generate impulse waves in lakes, fjords and the open sea. Experiments with subaerial landslides have shown that, depending on the slide characteristics, different wave types (Stokes, cnoidal or bore-like waves) are generated. Each of these wave types shows different wave height decay with increasing distance from the impact position. Furthermore, in very shallow water, the first impulse wave shows characteristic properties of a solitary wave. The nonlinear Fourier transform based on the Korteweg–deVries equation (KdV-NLFT) is a frequency-domain analysis method that decomposes shallow-water free-surface data into nonlinear cnoidal waves instead of linear sinusoidal waves. This method explicitly identifies solitons as spectral components within the given data. In this study, we apply the KdV-NLFT for the very first time to available 2D and 3D landslide-test data. The objective of the nonlinear decomposition is to identify the hidden nonlinear spectral structure of the impulse waves, including solitons. Furthermore, we analyze the determined solitons at different downstream positions from the impact point with respect to soliton propagation and modification. Finally, we draw conclusions for the prediction of the expected landslide-generated downstream solitons in the far-field.
Preparation and photoelectrochemical performance of nano Bi2S3–TiO2 composites
Authors: Li Senlin , Huang Jinliang , Ning Xiangmei , Chen Yongchao , Shi Qingkui
Published: April 2018

TiO2 nanorod (NR) arrays were prepared on FTO by the simple hydrothermal synthesizing method. On this basis, a layer of Bi2S3 quantum dots (QDs) was covered on the surface of TiO2 NRs array by solvothermal method, by which the Nano Bi2S3/TiO2 NRs composites films were obtained. The phase structure, morphologies, optical absorptions and photoelectrochemical (PEC) properties of the as-prepared materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM), Ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), Photoluminescence (PL) and electrochemical workstation. The results indicate that the concentration of tetrabutyl titanate (TBT) has a great influence on the morphology of the film, with the increase of TBT content, the array of TiO2 NRs changed from loose to tight, and the thin films were cracked when the TBT volume is up to 0.7[Formula: see text]mL; The absorption of the TiO2 NRs array film to the visible light is enhanced significantly when sensitized with Bi2S3 and the absorption wavelength is increased from 400[Formula: see text]nm to 800[Formula: see text]nm. Compared with the pure TiO2, the fluorescence intensity of the TiO2/Bi2S3 NRs is weakened, and there is no obvious fluorescence diffraction peak. Under the irradiation of standard (AM1.5[Formula: see text]G 100[Formula: see text]mW/cm[Formula: see text], the photocurrent density of the composite film increased significantly. When the external bias voltage is 1.2[Formula: see text]V, the current density of the composite films is five times of that of the pure TiO2.
A polyoxometalate gel electrolyte with enhanced electrochemical performance
Authors: Xie Zhirong , Wu Qingyin , Ai Limei
Published: April 2018

A novel hybrid gel electrolyte has been synthesized by self-assembling of 1-(3-sulfonic group) propyl pyridine (PyPS) cation and the heteropoly anion. The results of FTIR spectra and XRD patterns indicate the synthesized hybrid gel electrolyte [PyPS]5SiMo[Formula: see text]VO[Formula: see text] possesses lamellar structure with [Formula: see text]-spacing of 2.09[Formula: see text]nm. The electrochemical stability potential window is up to 3[Formula: see text]V. Ionic conductivity of [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]S[Formula: see text]cm[Formula: see text] was observed above the phase transformation temperature under ambient condition. The conductivity enhances with increasing temperatures.
Modifications and Statistical Analysis of Acoustic Emission Models Based on the Damage and Fractal Characteristics
Authors: Yang Jie , Zheng Yanna , Wang Huijing
Published: April 2018

The damage process is accompanied by the acoustic emission for quasibrittle materials. And in the process of material damage evolution, the length of microcracks satisfies the fractal distribution. Research on their relationship in theory is helpful to reveal the law of material damage evolution and acoustic emission activities. Damage variable expressions are proposed based on the damage and fractal characteristics firstly. Then, the statistical models for acoustic emission considering damage and fractal characteristics are established by deducing the relationship between acoustic emission parameters and load cycles and fractal dimensions. The effects of damage and fractal effects on acoustic emission parameters are analyzed finally. The results show that the damage accelerates the AE activity to the rougher material, the opposite to the more homogeneous material. It can also be seen that the increase of the fractal dimension, the homogeneity constant m, will substantially increase the AE activities.
Changes of Soil Moisture from Multiple Sources during 1988–2010 in the Yellow River Basin, China
Authors: Lou Dan , Wang Guojie , Shan Chan , Hagan Daniel Fiifi T. , Ullah Waheed , Shi Dawei
Published: April 2018

Soil moisture is a key variable in terrestrial water cycle, playing a key role in the exchange of water and energy in the land-atmosphere interface. The spatiotemporal variations of soil moisture from multiple sources during 1988–2010 are evaluated against in situ observations in the Yellow River basin, China, including the Essential Climate Variable satellite’s passive microwave product (SMECV), ERA-Interim reanalysis (SMERA), the National Centers for Environmental Prediction/Department of Energy’s Reanalysis-2 (SMNCEP), and the Variable Infiltration Capacity model products (SMVIC). The seasonal soil moisture dynamics ofSMECVandSMVICappear to be consistent withSMin  situ, with significant soil drying in spring and wetting in summer.SMERAandSMNCEP, however, fail to capture the soil drying before rainy seasons. Remarkably,SMECVshows large agreement withSMin  situin terms of the interannual variations and the long-term drying trends.SMVICcaptures the interannual variations but fails to have the long-term trends inSMin  situ. As forSMERAandSMNCEP, they fail to capture both the interannual variations and the long-term soil drying trends inSMin  situ.
Complexity-Entropy Causality Plane Based on Return Intervals: A Useful Approach to Quantify the Aeroengine Gas Path Parameters
Authors: Dong Keqiang , Long Linan
Published: April 2018

The complexity-entropy causality plane, as a powerful tool for discriminating Gaussian from non-Gaussian process, has been recently introduced to describe the complexity among time series. We propose to use this method to distinguish the stage of climb-cruise-decline of aeroengine. Our empirical results demonstrate that this statistical physics approach is useful. Further, the return intervals based complexity-entropy causality plane is introduced to describe the complexity of aeroengine fuel flow time series. The results can infer that the cruise process has lowest complexity and the decline process has highest complexity.
Selective Oxidation of Styrene to Benzaldehyde by Co‐Ag Codoped ZnO Catalyst and H2O2 as Oxidant
Authors: Aberkouks Abderrazak , Mekkaoui Ayoub Abdelkader , Boualy Brahim , El Houssame Soufiane , Ait Ali Mustapha , El Firdoussi Larbi
Published: April 2018

Various ratio of Co‐Ag supported on ZnO have been evaluated in the selective catalytic oxidation of styrene to benzaldehyde, using H2O2 as an oxidant. The catalysts were prepared by a sol‐gel process and were characterized using XRD, FT‐IR, TG‐DTG, BET, and SEM/EDX. The performance of the prepared catalyst was investigated under different parameters such as solvent, temperature, substrate/oxidant molar ratios, reaction time, and doping percent. The Zn1−x−yAgxCoyO catalysts exhibit a good activity and a high selectivity towards benzaldehyde (95%) with the formation of only 5% of acetophenone.
A Two-Dimensional Solar Tracking Stationary Guidance Method Based on Feature-Based Time Series
Authors: Zhang Keke , Si Chaoming , Zhu Zhencai , Guo Chongbin , Shi Qi
Published: April 2018

The amount of satellite energy acquired has a direct impact on operational capacities of the satellite. As for practical high functional density microsatellites, solar tracking guidance design of solar panels plays an extremely important role. Targeted at stationary tracking problems incurred in a new system that utilizes panels mounted in the two-dimensional turntable to acquire energies to the greatest extent, a two-dimensional solar tracking stationary guidance method based on feature-based time series was proposed under the constraint of limited satellite attitude coupling control capability. By analyzing solar vector variation characteristics within an orbit period and solar vector changes within the whole life cycle, such a method could be adopted to establish a two-dimensional solar tracking guidance model based on the feature-based time series to realize automatic switching of feature-based time series and stationary guidance under the circumstance of different β angles and the maximum angular velocity control, which was applicable to near-earth orbits of all orbital inclination. It was employed to design a two-dimensional solar tracking stationary guidance system, and a mathematical simulation for guidance performance was carried out in diverse conditions under the background of in-orbit application. The simulation results show that the solar tracking accuracy of two-dimensional stationary guidance reaches 10∘ and below under the integrated constraints, which meet engineering application requirements.
Epigenetic Contribution of High-Mobility Group A Proteins to Stem Cell Properties
Authors: Giancotti Vincenzo , Bergamin Natascha , Cataldi Palmina , Rizzi Claudio
Published: April 2018

High-mobility group A (HMGA) proteins have been examined to understand their participation as structural epigenetic chromatin factors that confer stem-like properties to embryonic stem cells (ESCs), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), and cancer stem cells (CSCs). The function of HMGA was evaluated in conjunction with that of other epigenetic factors such as histones and microRNAs (miRs), taking into consideration the posttranscriptional modifications (PTMs) of histones (acetylation and methylation) and DNA methylation. HMGA proteins were coordinated or associated with histone and DNA modification and the expression of the factors related to pluripotency. CSCs showed remarkable differences compared with ESCs and iPSCs.
Cognitive Waveform Design for Radar-Communication Transceiver Networks
Authors: Yao Yu , Wu Lenan
Published: April 2018

The system architecture for cognitive radar-communication (CRC) transceiver is proposed. A cognitive waveforms design approach, which is suitable for simultaneously performing both data communication and target detection, is presented. This approach aims at estimating target scattering coefficient (TSC) from the radar scene and facilitating high data rate communications. In order to minimize the mean square error (MSE) of the TSC, a convex cost function is established. The peak to average power ratio- (PAPR-) constrained optimal solution is achieved by applying the Kalman filtering-based strategy to design the set of ultra-wideband (UWB) transmission pulses and embed into them the information data with the M-ary position phase shift keying modulation technique. In addition to theoretical considerations, the simulation results show an improvement in target scattering coefficient (TSC) estimation and target detection probability as the number of iterations increases, while still transmitting data rates in the range of several Mbps with low bit error rates between CRC transceivers.
Use of Nanostructured Layered Double Hydroxides as Nanofilters in the Removal of Fe2+ and Ca2+ Ions from Oil Wells
Authors: Ephraim Emmanuel K. , Anyama Chinyere A. , Ayi Ayi A. , Onwuka Jude C.
Published: April 2018

Four new metal‐aluminum layered double hydroxides (LDHs), Mg‐Al(OH)2PO4 (1), Mg‐Al(OH)2PO4PF6 (2), Ca‐Al(OH)2SO4 (3), and Ca‐Al(OH)2PO4PF6 (4), were prepared by the coprecipitation method followed by mild hydrothermal processing at 60°C. Mg2+ and Ca2+ in solution with Al3+ were titrated with NaOH over 3–5 h to yield Mg‐Al and Ca‐Al layered double hydroxides, respectively, incorporating PO43−, PO43−PF6−, and SO42− anions in the interlamellar spaces. The isolated compounds were characterized with the help of XRD, IR, and SEM/EDAX, and their ability to remove scale‐forming ions from the aqueous system was studied with the help of atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). The SEM micrographs of Mg‐O‐Al‐OH and Ca‐O‐Al‐OH layers intercalated with PO43− and/or [PO4PF6]4− anions are similar consisting of uniform nanospheres with an average size of 100 nm, while the M‐O‐Al‐OH layer of compound 3, intercalated with SO42− anions, consists of hexagonal nanoplate crystals. In the infrared spectra, the characteristic absorption band for water molecules was observed in all the compounds. The XRD pattern showed that d012 and d104 peaks of M‐Al‐PO4 LDHs corresponding to interplanar spacing of 3.4804 and 2.5504 Å, respectively, shifted to higher 2θ values for the M‐Al‐PO4PF6 system, which indicates a decrease in the interlamellar spacing as PF6− was incorporated along with PO43− anion. The XRD pattern for Ca‐Al‐SO4 LDHs was quite different, showing the presence of low‐angle peaks at 2θ = 11.68 and 14.72°. The results of the column adsorption studies showed that there was a significant removal of Ca2+ by all the compounds under investigation with an efficiency of 84–99%. However, compounds 1 and 2 remove Fe2+ effectively with the efficiency of 98.73 and 99.77%, respectively; compounds 3 and 4 were shown to have little or no effect.
High-Speed Data-Driven Methodology for Real-Time Traffic Flow Predictions: Practical Applications of ITS
Authors: Chang Hyun-ho , Yoon Byoung-jo
Published: April 2018

Despite the achievements of academic research on data-driven k-nearest neighbour nonparametric regression (KNN-NPR), the low-speed computational capability of the KNN-NPR method, which can occur during searches involving enormous amounts of historical data, remains a major obstacle to improvements of real-system applications. To overcome this critical issue successfully, a high-speed KNN-NPR framework, capable of generating short-term traffic volume predictions, is proposed in this study. The proposed method is based on a two-step search algorithm, which has the two roles of building promising candidates for input data during nonprediction times and identifying decision-making input data for instantaneous predictions at the prediction point. To prove the efficacy of the proposed model, an experimental test was conducted with large-size traffic volume data. It was found that the performance of the model not only at least equals that of linear-search-based KNN-NPR in terms of prediction accuracy, but also shows a substantially reduced execution time in approximating real-time applications. This result suggests that the proposed algorithm can be also effectively employed as a preprocess to select useful past cases for advanced learning-based forecasting models.
Osteomeles schwerinae Extract Prevents Diabetes‐Induced Renal Injury in Spontaneously Diabetic Torii Rats
Authors: Sohn Eunjin , Kim Junghyun , Kim Chan-Sik , Jo Kyuhyung , Kim Jin Sook
Published: April 2018

Mesangial cell proliferation contributes to the development of glomerulosclerosis in diabetic nephropathy. This study was aimed at determining whether Osteomeles schwerinae (OSSC) extract can ameliorate renal damage in Spontaneously Diabetic Torii (SDT) rats. OSSC extract (100 and 250 mg/kg/day) was administered to the SDT rats through oral gavage for 17 weeks. At the end of the experiment, glucose, HbA1c, and albuminuria were measured. In addition, the levels of mesangial proliferation‐related proteins were determined by western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Our results show that albuminuria, accumulation of the extracellular matrix (ECM), and renal expansion were markedly restored by OSSC extract administration. The OSSC treatment also inhibited α‐smooth muscle actin and transforming growth factor‐β1 protein expression. In addition, OSSC and its bioactive compounds hyperoside and quercitrin inhibited the platelet‐derived growth factor‐BB (PDGF‐BB)/platelet‐derived growth factor‐B receptor (PDGFR‐β) ligand binding in an in vitro assay. Taken together, these results indicate that OSSC inhibits ECM accumulation and mesangial proliferation of the glomeruli in SDT rats through inhibition of the interaction between PDGF‐BB and PDGFR‐β. OSSC has ameliorating effects on the initiation and progression of diabetes complications and can be used for the treatment of early diabetic renal dysfunction.
Experimental Study on Stress-Dependent Nonlinear Flow Behavior and Normalized Transmissivity of Real Rock Fracture Networks
Authors: Yin Qian , Jing Hongwen , Liu Richeng , Ma Guowei , Yu Liyuan , Su Haijian
Published: April 2018

The mechanism and quantitative descriptions of nonlinear fluid flow through rock fractures are difficult issues of high concern in underground engineering fields. In order to study the effects of fracture geometry and loading conditions on nonlinear flow properties and normalized transmissivity through fracture networks, stress-dependent fluid flow tests were conducted on real rock fracture networks with different number of intersections (1, 4, 7, and 12) and subjected to various applied boundary loads (7, 14, 21, 28, and 35 kN). For all cases, the inlet hydraulic pressures ranged from 0 to 0.6 MPa. The test results show that Forchheimer’s law provides an excellent description of the nonlinear fluid flow in fracture networks. The linear coefficient a and nonlinear coefficient b in Forchheimer’s law J=aQ+bQ2 generally decrease with the number of intersections but increase with the boundary load. The relationships between a and b can be well fitted with a power function. A nonlinear effect factor E=bQ2/(aQ+bQ2) was used to quantitatively characterize the nonlinear behaviors of fluid flow through fracture networks. By defining a critical value of E = 10%, the critical hydraulic gradient was calculated. The critical hydraulic gradient decreases with the number of intersections due to richer flowing paths but increases with the boundary load due to fracture closure. The transmissivity of fracture networks decreases with the hydraulic gradient, and the variation process can be estimated using an exponential function. A mathematical expression T/T0=1-exp⁡(-αJ-0.45) for decreased normalized transmissivity T/T0 against the hydraulic gradient J was established. When the hydraulic gradient is small, T/T0 holds a constant value of 1.0. With increasing hydraulic gradient, the reduction rate of T/T0 first increases and then decreases. The equivalent permeability of fracture networks decreases with the applied boundary load, and permeability changes at low load levels are more sensitive.
Socioeconomic and Environmental Predictors of Asthma-Related Mortality
Authors: Sinharoy Ankita , Mitra Shubhajit , Mondal Pritish
Published: April 2018

The prevalence of asthma-related mortality (ARM) varies significantly among different countries, possibly influenced by various socioeconomic and environmental conditions (SEC). In-depth epidemiological research is necessary to understand the causal relationship between different SECs and ARM and to develop public health strategies to reduce the global burden of asthma. Our research aimed to identify the key SECs which may be attributed to ARM worldwide and to study the relationship between ARM and asthma prevalence. We included twenty-two countries with available data on SECs (2014-2015) and divided them into four groups: Asia, Africa, Europe, and Miscellaneous (Australia and North and South America). Tertiary school enrollment (TSE), gross domestic product (GDP), air pollution index, and male and female smoking prevalence rates were analyzed as predictors of ARM, using multiple linear regression. We found that ARM and asthma prevalence had an inverse relationship and developing countries compared to developed countries experienced higher ARM despite having lower asthma prevalence. Asian and African countries, compared to Europe and Miscellaneous countries, experienced poorer SECs, possibly associated with higher ARM. Among SECs, TSE and GDP had strongest association with ARM. In conclusion, lack of education and uneven distribution of resources may have an influence on the increased ARM in developing countries.
Differential Regulation of Toll‐Like Receptor‐Mediated Cytokine Production by Unfolded Protein Response
Authors: Kim Sena , Joe Yeonsoo , Surh Young-Joon , Chung Hun Taeg
Published: April 2018

The ability of the host immune response is largely mediated by the proinflammatory cytokine production. Physiological and pathological conditions of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) trigger unfolded protein response and contribute to the development or pathology of inflammatory diseases. Under ER stress, unfolded protein response (UPR) signaling pathways participate in upregulating inflammatory cytokine production via NF‐kappaB, MAPK, and GSK‐3β. Moreover, it has been suggested that ER stress crosstalks with toll‐like receptor (TLR) signaling pathway to promote the production of proinflammatory cytokines. In addition, TLR stimulation can lead to UPR activation to promote inflammation. In this review, we will cover how proinflammatory cytokine production by UPR signaling can be induced or amplified in the presence or absence of TLR activation.
Immunotherapy for Glioblastoma: Playing Chess, Not Checkers
Authors: Jackson Christopher M. , Lim Michael
Published: April 2018

Patients with glioblastoma (GBM) exhibit a complex state of immune dysfunction involving multiple mechanisms of local, regional, and systemic immunosuppression and tolerance. These pathways are now being identified and their relative contributions explored. Delineating how these pathways are interrelated is paramount to effectively implementing immunotherapy for GBM. Clin Cancer Res; 24(17); 4059–61. ©2018 AACR.

See related articles by Woroniecka et al., p. 4175 and Mohme et al., p. 4187
High-Dose Radiotherapy as Neoadjuvant Treatment in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Allen Aaron M. , Shochat Tzippy , Flex Dov , Kramer Mordechai R. , Zer Alona , Peled Nir , Dudnik Elizabeta , Fenig Eyal , Saute Milton
Published: April 2018

Background: Trimodality therapy (chemoradiation followed by surgery) provides a benefit in progression-free survival but not overall survival. We sought to determine if a high dose of radiation could be delivered safely and provide a clinical benefit. Methods: Consecutive patients with stage IIIA or IIIB non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy followed by surgery were reviewed with IRB approval. Results: A total of 48 patients were treated from November 2007 to May 2014. Of these, 64% had stage IIIA disease while 36% had stage IIIB; 46% had adenocarcinoma, 34% squamous, and 23% NSCLC not otherwise specified. The median dose of chemoradiotherapy was 72 Gy (60–72). Overall, 86% of patients received cisplatin (50 mg/m2) and etoposide (50 mg/m2) concurrently with radiotherapy; 72% of patients underwent lobectomy following chemoradiotherapy and 28% underwent pneumonectomy. The 30- and 90-day mortality rates were 0%. The nodal downstaging rate was 82% and there was a 64% rate of pathologic complete response. The overall survival was 29.9 months (95% CI, 19–86 months). The median time to locoregional progression was 35.1 months and the median time to distant progression was 39.3 months. Locoregional failure was 8% and distant failure was 44%. Conclusion: High-dose preoperative chemoradiotherapy was safe and effective. This combination should be further considered.
Neoterminal Ileal Polyposis and Ulceration after Restorative Proctocolectomy with a Current Review of the Literature
Authors: Gorrepati Venkata Subhash , Rassaei Negar , Clarke Kofi
Published: April 2018

After ileal pouch anal anastomosis, one of the frequently encountered complications is polyposis of the pouch. We describe a case of proximal neoterminal ileal polyposis associated with deep ulceration suggestive of Crohn’s disease and review the available literature. A 36-year-old male presented with resistant pouchitis 11 years after surgery for ulcerative colitis. With all-negative initial workup, pouchoscopy showed multiple deep ulcers in the proximal ileum with some polyps. Biopsy of polyps showed inflammatory polyps with negative immunohistological staining for IgG pouchitis. With no treatable etiology for pouchitis and the presence of inflammatory polyps, there are no guidelines for surveillance of this condition. Definitive diagnosis is challenging and there is no consensus or recommended guidelines on the management.
Ascaris lumbricoides Discharge from the Mouth
Authors: Kobayashi Yuya , Tsuyuzaki Jun
Published: April 2018

A 68-year-old Japanese man presented with Ascaris lumbricoides discharge from his mouth. The infection was suspected to have occurred while the patient was in the Philippines. This A. lumbricoides migration occurred because a proton pump inhibitor was used and Billroth I resection had been performed, which reduced gastric acid secretion and increased gastric pH. In addition, the pylorus had been removed during Billroth I resection, enabling easy access to the stomach. The number of imported foods, of infected migrants and refugees, and of overseas travels is increasing, and these factors may lead to an increase in A. lumbricoides infection even in countries with a typically low incidence of such infections. Clinicians should bear in mind that parasitic infections may occur in nonendemic areas.
Possibility of Interstitial Lung Disease as a Phlebosclerotic Colitis Manifestation
Authors: Takemura Tomoyasu , Kataoka Yuki , Iki Reika , Nishioka Yasuyuki , Matsubara Naoko , Kanagaki Mitsunori , Yasumizu Yoshitomo
Published: April 2018

Phlebosclerotic colitis presents with ischemic bowels and calcification of the mesenteric veins. Owing to its rarity, we have little information on the complications of this disease. Herein, we report on a 77-year-old woman with phlebosclerotic colitis and interstitial lung disease. She was diagnosed as having phlebosclerotic colitis by CT and colonoscopy. At the same time, chest CT also showed interstitial lung disease. After 4 years, she experienced exacerbation of interstitial lung disease. She recovered without treatment. The occurrence of interstitial lung disease may have been associated with her phlebosclerotic colitis.
Macranthoidin B Modulates Key Metabolic Pathways to Enhance ROS Generation and Induce Cytotoxicity and Apoptosis in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Fan Xing , Rao Jun , Zhang Ziwei , Li Dengfeng , Cui Wenhao , Zhang Jun , Wang Hua , Tou Fangfang , Zheng Zhi , Shen Qiang
Published: April 2018

Background/Aims: Induction of oxidative stress and reactive oxygen species (ROS) mediated-apoptosis have been utilized as effective strategies in anticancer therapy. Macranthoidin B (MB) is a potent inducer of ROS-mediated apoptosis in cancer, but its mechanism of action is poorly understood. Method: Superoxide production with MB exposure in colorectal cancer (CRC) cells was measured using lucigenin chemiluminescence and real-time PCR. MB’s inhibitory effect on proliferation and viability of CRC cells was determined by proliferation assays. MB’s effect on apoptosis of CRC cells was determined by Western blotting and annexin V-FITC/PI staining. MB’s effect on the growth of CRC xenografts in mice was assessed. An established metabolomics profiling platform combining ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS) with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was performed to determine MB’s effect on total metabolite variation in CRC cells. Results: We found that MB increases ROS generation via modulating key metabolic pathways. Using metabolomics profiling platform combining LC-MS with GC-MS, a total of 236 metabolites were identified in HCT-116 cells in which 31 metabolites were determined to be significantly regulated (p ≤ 0.05) after MB exposure. A number of key metabolites revealed by metabolomics analysis include glucose, fructose, citrate, arginine, phenylalanine, and S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH), suggesting specific modulation of metabolism on carbohydrates, amino acids and peptides, lipids, nucleotide, cofactors and vitamins in HCT-116 CRC cells with MB treatment highly associated with apoptosis triggered by enhanced ROS and activated caspase-3. Conclusion: Our results demonstrate that MB represses CRC cell proliferation by inducing ROS-mediated apoptosis.
Energy Metabolism in the Bone is Associated with Histomorphometric Changes in Rats with Hyperthyroidism
Authors: Hu Zhuoqing , Du Minqun , Lai Wenxiu , Liang Yanlong , Liu Qin , Mo Yilin , Bei Jiaxin , Li Shuhui , Yang Yajun , Xu Jinrong , Cui Liao
Published: April 2018

Background/Aims: In this study we assessed histomorphometric changes induced by thyroxine (T4) in 3-month-old hyperthyroid male rats and examined whether the potential mechanism of these changes is related to bone changes. Methods: Rats were classified as either hyperthyroid following administration of 250 µg/kg/day freshly prepared T4 by gavage for 2 months or euthyroid following administration of vehicle alone (n = 8 per group). We measured bone mineral density (BMD), bone biomechanical properties, and bone histomorphometric changes. Levels of serum indicators were also measured, and three right femurs from the two groups were selected for proteomic investigation. Results: Compared with the control rats, hyperthyroid rats showed a reduction in the fifth lumbar vertebral BMD as well as in the entire femoral BMD (p = 0.033 and 0.026, respectively). Histomorphometric analysis of the proximal tibial metaphysis showed that the percentage of the trabecular area, trabecular number, and percentage of the cortical bone area in the hyperthyroid rats significantly decreased compared with those of the control rats. Conversely, bone formation rate (per unit of bone surface and bone volume), percentage of the osteoclast perimeter, trabecular separation, and endosteal mineral apposition rate in the hyperthyroid rats significantly increased compared with the control rats (all p < 0.05). Except for stiffness (p = 0.24), all bone biomechanical properties of the femur showed a significant decreasing trend in the hyperthyroid rats versus the control rats (all p < 0.05). Serum levels of osteocalcin, alkaline phosphatase, terminal telopeptides of type β collagen, and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase were higher in the hyperthyroid rats than in the control rats (all p < 0.05). Using isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ), the expression levels of 1,310 proteins were found to be significantly different between the hyperthyroid and control rats (711 proteins were upregulated and 599 were downregulated in hyperthyroid rats). Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analyses showed that most of the enzymes in the glycolysis–tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle–oxidative phosphorylation signalling pathway were upregulated in hyperthyroid rats, and seven differentially expressed proteins were selected to verify the iTRAQ results using western blotting. Conclusion: Energy metabolism via the glycolysis–TCA cycle–oxidative phosphorylation pathway is positively associated with T4-induced bone histomorphometric changes in rats.
Cardiomyocyte Derived miR-328 Promotes Cardiac Fibrosis by Paracrinely Regulating Adjacent Fibroblasts
Authors: Zhao Dandan , Li Cui , Yan He , Li Tianyu , Qian Ming , Zheng Nan , Jiang Hua , Liu Li , Xu Bozhi , Wu Qiuxia , Li Xuelian , Liang Haihai , Shan Hongli
Published: April 2018

Background/Aims: In our previous study, we demonstrated that elevated expression of miR-328 is a potent determinant of cardiac fibrosis during myocardial infarction (MI). In the present study, histological examination revealed progressive fibrosis in transgenic mice overexpressing cardiomyocyte-specific miR-328. This study investigated whether the transfer of miR-328 from cardiomyocytes (CMs) to cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) in a paracrine manner contributes to myocardial fibrosis. Methods: Myocardial infarction was established by the occlusion of the left coronary artery. Masson’s trichrome staining and collagen assays were used to evaluate the progression of fibrosis. The vesicles and translocation of miR-328 in a co-culture assay system were respectively observed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and immunofluorescence staining (IF). Real-time PCR was employed to detect the level of miR-328, Col1α1 and Col3α1. The protein expression of Col1α1, TGF-βRIII, p-smad2/3 (phosphorylated-smad2/3) and TGF-β1 were probed using western blot analysis. Results: Cardiomyocyte-specific miR-328 overexpressing transgenic (TG) mice showed enhanced collagen deposition and provoked cardiac fibrosis by the activation of the TGF-β1 pathway, and this effect was abrogated after knockdown of endogenous miR-328 in mice. Correspondingly, the expression of miR-328 was increased in CFs co-cultured with CMs transfected with miR-328 mimics, likely in a paracrine manner. The cardiomyocyte-mediated augmentation of miR-328 contributes to fibrogenesis in CFs, and this pro-fibrotic effect was reversed after the transfection of miR-328 inhibitor in CFs. Conclusion: A novel molecular mechanism for miR-328 derived from CMs as a paracrine signaling mediator of cardiac fibrogenesis further demonstrates that miR-328 is a potential therapeutic target.
A autonomia universitária e os programas de residência médica no Brasil: os limites da Lei do “Mais Médicos”
Authors: Ranieri Nina Beatriz Stocco
Published: April 2018

O artigo analisa as prerrogativas da autonomia universitária em face da polêmica Lei n. 12.871/2013, a chamada lei do “Mais Médicos”, destinada a formar recursos humanos na área médica para o Sistema Único de Saúde brasileiro – SUS, previsto no art. 198 da Constituição Federal. A problemática propicia uma visão ampla sobre a matéria constitucional e legal relacionada à repartição de competências educacionais, à composição dos sistemas de ensino, à autonomia universitária e à atuação de universidades públicas na residência médica. Os argumentos apresentados sustentam que: os programas de residência médica constituem modalidade de cursos de especialização, submetidos às normas constitucionais e legais da educação nacional, com as peculiaridades que lhes confere a Lei n. 6.932/1981. A Lei do “Mais Médicos” não altera a natureza acadêmica desses programas; o regime jurídico dos programas de residência médica é de direito público, conforme previsto na Lei n. 6.932/1981 e extraído da Lei de Diretrizes e Bases da Educação Nacional (LDB), é conformado pelo princípio da legalidade e pelos princípios constitucionais educacionais, entre estes o da autonomia universitária; a autonomia universitária constitui fundamento suficiente para que as universidades públicas deliberem sobre os aspectos acadêmicos dos programas de residência médica que oferece, em toda a sua extensão, de acordo com a Constituição Federal e a LDB.
Questões controversas com relação à lei do feminicídio (Lei n. 13.104/2015)
Authors: Souza Luciano Anderson de , Barros Paula Pécora de
Published: April 2018

O artigo analisa a chamada Lei do Feminicídio, isto é, Lei n. 13.104/2015, que alterou o delito de homicídio no Código Penal pátrio, para fins de inclusão de uma novel qualificadora, consistente no homicídio praticado contra a mulher, por razões da condição de sexo feminino. Procede-se a um estudo de viés crítico eminentemente político-criminal e dogmático penal, com breves referências criminológicas. São destacados os paradoxos da busca pela utilização legítima do ramo jurídico-criminal para fins de emancipação de um grupo vulnerável, marginalizado em sociedade machista e patriarcal.
Tomada de contas especial. Um importante mecanismo de controle no âmbito dos tribunais de contas
Authors: Cestari Renata Constante , Carnaúba César Augusto Martins , Gulim Marcello De Oliveira , Sarquis Alexandre Manir Figueiredo
Published: April 2018

Visa o presente trabalho a demonstrar as vantagens da utilização da Tomada de Contas Especial (TCE) como forma de apuração eficiente e célere de irregularidades cometidas por aplicadores de recursos públicos.
stereographic cloud analysis from Apollo 6 photographs over a cold front
Authors: Shenk William E. , Holub Robert J. , Neff Robert A.
Published: April 2018

Twenty-three overlapping photographs from the Apollo 6 mission were stereographically analyzed to determine the three dimensional cloud structure over a strong cold front in the southeastern United States on 4 April 1968. The analysis extended from near Tyler, Texas, eastward to the Georgia coast. Four major cloud regions were observed: a zone of altocumulus behind the front, a vigorous thunderstorm complex along and just ahead of the front, a chaotic region of multilayer clouds for a few hundred kilometers east of the thunderstorms and a large region of cloud streets parallel to the surface winds near the coast. The cloud top altitudes in the thunderstorm complex were extraordinary, reaching a maximum height of 22.375 km, whereas the tropopause was located at 12–13 km and the maximum tops reported by radar 30 min before the Apollo pass were at 12.5 km. An area of approximately 2 × 104 km2 was covered with maximum tops of ⩾ 18 km. The accuracy of the stereographic technique was confirmed with cloud top altitudes computed from cloud shadows either on lower clouds and/or on the ground with the Apollo photographs or with ATS-3 images that were taken earlier when the sun angle was lower and the shadows longer. The agreement was within 500 m for the Apollo comparisons which is about the expected error for each method. When the ATS pictures were used the shadow error was undoubtedly larger due to the lower sensor resolution and lower contrast between the shadow and ground but the 18–20 km cloud top heights agree with the altitudes calculated by the stereographic technique for the western edge of the thunderstorms almost 2 h later. A total of 2.0 × 109 kg of water vapor was estimated to be injected into the lower stratosphere if the air was 50% saturated with respect to ice within the cloud volume and if 1% of the available ice was vaporized within the stratosphere from clouds that had a 1 g/m3 density that half filled the stratosphere below the calculated cloud top levels.
Preliminary Results from the Air Mass Transformation Experiment (AMTEX)
Authors: Lenschow D. H. , Agee E. M.
Published: April 2018

The field phases of AMTEX, a GARP subprogram on air-sea interaction implemented by Japan, were conducted over the East China Sea in the environs of Okinawa, Japan, during the last two weeks of February in 1974 and 1975. Investigators from Australia, Canada, and the United States also participated in this experiment. The weather was generally very favorable for this study of air mass transformation processes in 1975 because of an extensive cold air outbreak during most of the experimental period. A basic synoptic data set was obtained from 6 h soundings from an array of aerological stations centered at Okinawa. In addition, satellite, hourly surface and surface marine, oceanographic, boundary layer, radiation, radar, cloud physics, and aircraft data were obtained and have been or will be available in published data reports or on magnetic tape.

Preliminary results from 1974 and 1975 reported at the Fourth AMTEX Study Conference and joint United States–Japan Cooperative Science Program Seminar, “Air Mass Transformation Processes over the Kuroshio in Winter,” held in Tokyo, 26–30 September 1975, are presented and discussed.
Observation of wind-induced sea surface feature off Pulu Bawean, Java, from LANDSAT-1
Authors: Needham Bruce H.
Published: April 2018

Photographic data received from the LANDSAT-1 (ERTS-1) satellite on 2 November 1972 while over the Java Sea revealed an anomalous ocean feature extending to the northwest from Pulu Bawean (Bawean Island). The cause of this feature is discussed and compared to similar features in the lee of the Lesser Antilles Islands and in the Red Sea.
An Overview of Recent Work in Weather Forecasting and Suggestions for Future Work
Authors: Pielke Roger A.
Published: April 2018

Of all the scientific interests in the American Meteorological Society, none has more visibility to the public, or a more pronounced effect on man's day-to-day activities, than weather forecasting. In this paper, recent research on this important topic is briefly outlined and a number of suggested avenues of future work are discussed. At the end of the paper, specific recommendations regarding the manner in which weather information is disseminated are given.
The Winter Monsoon Experiment—Report of December 1978 Field Phase
Authors: Greenfield Richard S. , Krishnamurti T. N.
Published: April 2018

These notes provide a short summary of the field phase of the GARP Winter Monsoon Experiment. The field phase commenced on 1 December 1978, with the field operations coordinated from Kuala Lumpur. The participants included scientists and technical personnel from Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Hong Kong, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Australia, People's Republic of China (PRC), the U.S.S.R., and the U.S.A. The observing systems, type of experiments, mission objectives, components of overall data sets, and a preliminary evaluation are presented in this short survey.
Interannual Variations and Trends in Remotely Sensed and Modeled Soil Moisture in China
Authors: Jia Binghao , Liu Jianguo , Xie Zhenghui , Shi Chunxiang
Published: April 2018

In this study, a microwave-based multisatellite merged product released from the European Space Agency’s Climate Change Initiative (ESA CCI) and two model-based simulations from the Community Land Model 4.5 (CLM4.5) and Global Land Data Assimilation System (GLDAS) were used to investigate interannual variations and trends of soil moisture in China between 1979 and 2010. They were also evaluated using in situ observations from the nationwide agrometeorological network. These three datasets show consistent drying trends for surface soil moisture in northeastern and central China, as well the eastern portion of Inner Mongolia, and wetting trends in the Tibetan Plateau, which are also identified by in situ observations. Trends in the root-zone soil moisture are in line with those of surface soil moisture seen in the CLM4.5 and GLDAS simulations obtained from most areas in China (78%–88%), except for northwestern China and southwest of the Tibetan Plateau. Moreover, the drying trend intensifies with increasing soil depth. Taking the in situ measurements as reference, it is found that ESA CCI has better accuracy in identifying the significant drying trends while CLM4.5 and GLDAS capture wetting trends better. Compared to temperature, precipitation is the primary factor responsible for these trends, which controls the direction of soil moisture changes, while increasing temperatures can also enhance soil drying during periods of decreased precipitation.