bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sobre o conceito e a função da Constituição dos modernos
Authors: Maia Paulo Sávio Peixoto
Published: September 2018

Este ensaio tematiza as origens históricas do conceito moderno de Constituição. Para tanto, valoriza a diacronia do tempo histórico, uma vez que busca sublinhar em que medida as constituições adotadas pelos Estados do Ocidente (a partir da virada para o século XIX) rompem com seus antecedentes semânticos antigos. No sentido de captar essa unicidade histórica da Constituição, é realizado um exame do assim-chamado “período de reflexão constitucional”, situado entre 1763-1803, nos Estados Unidos. A análise desse contexto muito nos diz sobre a função da Constituição moderna.
Instituições e a lei de responsabilidade fiscal (LRF): Uma análise do comportamento acerca do conjunto das receitas da Bahia e Piauí, no período 2001/ 2005
Authors: Silva Filho Luis Abel da , Silva William Gledson e
Published: September 2018

O objetivo do estudo reflete a influência que a Lei de Responsabilidade Fiscal (LRF) exerce sobre os grupos de municípios baianos e piauienses, situando a análise entre os anos de 2001 a 2005. A hipótese do artigo revela que a LRF, como uma instituição formal, regula mais adequadamente os entes federativos enfatizados, alcançando-os indiscriminadamente e fortalecendo as finanças públicas desses. Usa-se, uma revisão de literatura de natureza institucionalista, que se associa ao modelo econométrico Pooled Ordinary Least Square (POLS), para possibilitar o alcance dos resultados essenciais do estudo. Finalmente, nota-se que a LRF fortaleceu as finanças públicas baianas e piauienses, como consequência desse processo.
Dez Anos da Lei de Responsabilidade Fiscal: Avanços e Percalços
Authors: Lima Edilberto Carlos Pontes
Published: September 2018

A Lei de Responsabilidade Fiscal trouxe grandes expectativas. Muitos a apontavam como uma mudança profunda na forma de gerir as finanças públicas no Brasil. Os diversos mecanismos de controle inseridos pela lei impediriam que uma série de práticas corriqueiras, mas extremamente nocivas para a administração pública brasileira, continuassem a existir. Suas regras – que incluíam limites de gastos de pessoal por Poder, limites de endividamento público, de operações de crédito, mecanismos para evitar que uma gestão transferisse ônus para as gestões seguintes, entre outros instrumentos de austeridade - teriam aplicações em todos os Poderes e em todas as esferas de governo. Desde o início, reconhecia-se que os desafios para a implementação seriam enormes, porque a lei contrariava uma cultura política há muito consolidada. O primeiro grande teste pelo qual a lei passou foi o da sua constitucionalidade. Foi ajuizada por 3 partidos políticos – e apoiada por diversas associações de magistrados e de membros do Ministério Público - uma ADI que impugnava a constitucionalidade de toda a lei, por suposto vício formal, além de diversos dispositivos essenciais. O segundo grande teste foi o da modificação. Muitos analisavam que assim que o grupo de forças que a patrocinou deixasse o Poder, ela seria alterada em seus objetivos mais importantes. Nesses quase 10 anos de vigência da Lei de Responsabilidade Fiscal, esta só foi alterada uma vez, alteração que reforçou os seus objetivos, uma vez que ampliou a obrigatoriedade de transparência. Por fim, no teste da implementação, houve alguns problemas, notadamente na interpretação dos gastos com pessoal, em algumas unidades da federação, mas, de uma forma geral, a lei tem sido bem-sucedida.
O Empréstimo da Ata de Registro de Preços
Authors: Reis Elisangela Fernandes dos
Published: September 2018

O sistema de registro de preços, previsto na Lei federal nº 8.666/93, se qualifica como um procedimento especial de licitação, e por meio de regulamentos, em diferentes esferas de governo. Inovações vêm sendo incorporadas a este procedimento, entre elas, talvez a mais incoerente seja a previsão de empréstimo de atas, a cada dia mais disseminada entre os órgãos públicos, originando os chamados “caronas”, que apenas se beneficiam das atas de outrem, a elas aderindo mediante o cumprimento de poucas exigências. No presente estudo, realizaremos um paralelo entre as características intrínsecas da licitação perante essa inovação do “carona” e suas incompatibilidades com o sistema Constitucional e legal de contratações públicas.
Contratação de Serviços Advocatícios para Defesa de Gestores Públicos
Authors: Cunha Bruno Santos
Published: September 2018

O presente estudo tem o objetivo de analisar as circunstâncias e condicionantes inerentes à contratação, mediante inexigibilidade de licitação, de serviços advocatícios para defesa de gestores públicos. Para tal, é necessário demonstrar as peculiaridades e requisitos do procedimento de inexigibilidade de licitação fundado no art. 13, V, e 25, II, da Lei Federal n. 8.666/93.
Qualidade na Despesa Pública: Precisamos de uma Nova Lei ?
Authors: Botelho Cristiane Leitão dos Santos
Published: September 2018

O presente trabalho tem como objetivo analisar a necessidade de um novo marco regulatório que priorize o aumento da qualidade da despesa pública. Pretende-se mostrar os mecanismos que regem a Despesa Pública, seus aspectos jurídicos e políticos, que constituem pontos indispensáveis para uma política fiscal e social eficiente. Destacando seus diversos conceitos doutrinários a classificação das Despesas Pública e alguns comentários a Lei n° 4.320/64, que, ainda, rege os mecanismos para elaboração e controle dos orçamentos e balanços. Por fim, serão enfocados alguns aspectos do Projeto de Lei do Senado n° 229/2009 de autoria do Senador Tasso Jereissati, com vistas ao aperfeiçoamento dos instrumentos de planejamento, orçamento e controle no setor público brasileiro.
A Pessoa Idosa e o Direito à Celeridade Processual. Vinculação dos Tribunais de Contas ao Supraprincípio da Dignidade da Pessoa Humana
Authors: Costa Daniel F. O.
Published: September 2018

O Tribunal de Contas lida todos os dias com processos que envolvem pessoas idosas, fato que o obriga a adoção de medidas que contribuam para a proteção desse grupo de pessoas. Essa obrigatoriedade é decorrência da vinculação das entidades públicas ao supraprincípio da dignidade da pessoa humana. Uma das formas de cooperar para proteção dos idosos, assim, é lhes conferir o direito à tramitação prioritária dos processos, que é medida de fácil implementação. O presente artigo, portanto, tem como objetivo demonstrar que os idosos têm o direito à tramitação processual preferencial no âmbito das Cortes de Contas.
Fortalecendo a Democracia: a Contribuição dos Tribunais de Contas para o Controle Social
Authors: Carvalho Harley Sousa de , Albuquerque Felipe Braga
Published: September 2018

O presente trabalho analisa a relação entre controle social e democracia, buscando demonstrar como o citado controle sobre a vida pública pode ser uma ferramenta de suma importância para o fortalecimento de uma sociedade democrática, e como a atuação dos Tribunais de Contas é imprescindível para se possibilitar que esse controle venha a ser exercido. Compõe o objeto de estudo do artigo em que consiste o controle social, as suas espécies, a sua relação com o direito à informação, assim como as disposições constitucionais acerca da atuação dos Tribunais de Contas e como esses contribuem para o direito à informação e, consequentemente, para o controle social.
O Processo de Convergência das Normas Internacionais de Contabilidade: Uma Realidade nos Setores Privado e Público Brasileiros
Authors: Mapurunga Patrícia Vasconcelos Rocha , Meneses Anelise Florencio de , Peter Maria da Glória Arrais
Published: September 2018

Em decorrência da maior competitividade, tornando os mercados cada vez mais próximos, transacionando mercadorias, serviços, ações, recursos etc., é de suma importância que a linguagem contábil entre esses mercados seja comum, construída sob um mesmo padrão. Desse modo, surgiu, nos últimos anos, um movimento mundial em prol da convergência internacional das normas contábeis, objetivando possibilitar uma maior comparação e compreensão das informações disponibilizadas pelos diferentes países, tanto na contabilidade aplicada ao setor privado como na do setor público. A divulgação de informações compreensíveis e comparáveis, aos diversos usuários, pode beneficiar a organização, possibilitando a captação de mais recursos e o maior apoio dos investidores, dentre outros benefícios. Diante desse cenário, o presente artigo tem por objetivo analisar as ações desenvolvidas para o processo de convergência das normas internacionais de contabilidade nos setores privado e público brasileiros. Quanto aos aspectos metodológicos, optou-se por uma abordagem qualitativa, com o uso de pesquisa bibliográfica e documental. Por fi m, concluiu-se que o processo de convergência contábil realizado, tanto na área pública como privada, é relevante e necessário para incluir o Brasil no contexto atual dos mercados, no qual há a possibilidade, dentre outras, da obtenção de recursos com menores custos.
Constituição e Idealismo – O Dilema da Efetivação Constitucional sem a Política
Authors: Lima Martonio Mont’Alverne Barreto , Almeida Plínio Régis Baima de
Published: September 2018

De origem pós Segunda Guerra Mundial, e a exemplo do pensamento comum que vem condicionando parte importante de setores da sociedade, o neoconstitucionalismo, ingressa no campo de reflexão conformativa da Constituição Federal de 1988. De base liberal, mais pautada nos teóricos estadunidenses, o neoconstitucionalismo desacredita o texto constitucional na medida em que atribui a tarefa de efetivação constitucional a intérpretes, lingüistas e a ponderações. Impõe-se, dessa forma, reflexão a essa visão, tendo-se como substratos indutivos elementos reais de conformação constitucional, que não sejam simples interpretações normativas como é o caso da cultura, da história, das artes e da política.
Parotidektomi radikal pada karsinoma sel asinus parotis
Authors: Adham Marlinda , Sutanti Meila
Published: September 2018

Background: Acinic cell carcinoma is an uncommon type of parotid malignant tumour. One commonsymptom of this low grade malignancy is slowly growing parotid mass. Pain in parotid area and facialnerve paresis are important symptoms that indicate malignancy. From clinical manifestations, it is difficultto differentiate between this kind of malignancy with benign parotid tumour. Fine needle aspiration biopsyand CT scan are important in diagnosing acinic cell parotid carcinoma, and surgery is the main therapy.Purpose: We present this case to enlighten general practitioners and also otorhinolaryngologists aboutthis kind of parotid malignancy that has similar presentation with benign parotid tumour. Case: Onecase of acinic cell carcinoma of the parotis was reported. A 53 years old man was diagnosed as stage IVacinic cell carcinoma. Case management: The patient underwent radical parotidectomy. He was plannedfor chemotherapy and radiotherapy but untill now, he still refused further treatment. Conclusion: Aciniccell carcinoma is one of malignant tumour that has a good prognosis, especially if diagnosed early andadequately treated.Key words: malignant parotid tumour, acinic cell carcinoma, fine needle aspiration biopsy,parotidectomy.Abstrak : Latar belakang: Karsinoma sel asinus adalah salah satu tipe keganasan kelenjar liur yang jarang sekaliterjadi. Karsinoma ini bersifat low grade yang ditandai oleh benjolan pada daerah parotis yang tumbuhsecara lambat. Dari pemeriksaan klinis, keganasan ini sulit dibedakan dengan tumor jinak. Salah satugejala yang membedakan dari tumor jinak adalah rasa nyeri dan paresis nervus fasialis. Pemeriksaan biopsiaspirasi jarum halus dan tomografi komputer dapat menegakkan diagnosis karsinoma parotis jenis ini.Terapi utamanya adalah parotidektomi. Tujuan: Kasus ini diajukan agar para dokter umum dan dokterspesialis Telinga, Hidung, Tenggorok dapat mengenali adanya karsinoma parotis yang bermanifestasiklinis seperti tumor jinak ini. Kasus: Dilaporkan satu pasien, laki-laki berusia 53 tahun yang didiagnosiskarsinoma sel asinus kelenjar parotis stadium IV. Penatalaksanaan: Pada pasien ini dilakukan operasiparotidektomi radikal dan direncanakan untuk radiasi dan kemoterapi. Sampai saat ini, pasien masihmenolak untuk tatalaksana lebih lanjut pascabedah.Kesimpulan: Karsinoma sel asinus merupakan kasuskeganasan yang memiliki prognosis baik, terutama jika didiagnosis dini dan diterapi secara adekuat.Kata kunci: tumor ganas parotis, sel asinus, biopsi aspirasi jarum halus, parotidektomi.
Neuroendocrine tumor of parapharyngeal space
Authors: Adham Marlinda , Widayanti Novra
Published: September 2018

Background: Parapharyngeal space tumors account for some 0.5% of tumors of the head and neck, most ofthem benign. The most common benign neoplasms are salivary gland neoplasm, paragangliomas and followed byneurogenic tumors. The importance of these tumors lies mainly in two aspects, the difficulty of early diagnosis,due to the lack of symptoms in the initial stages and, on the other hand, the extreme risk of complications inperforming surgery in the parapharyngeal region. Purpose: We present this case to enlighten generalpractitioners and also otorhinolaryngologist about diagnosis and management of parapharyngeal tumor. Case:One clinical case of neuroendocrine tumor in parapharyngeal space on a 37 years old man. Management: Thepatient underwent diagnosis procedure and extirpation of the tumor mass. Conclusion: Parapharyngeal tumor isone of head and neck tumors that has good prognosis, especially if diagnosed early and adequately treated.Keywords: neuroendocrine tumor, parapharyngeal space, benign tumor.ABSTRAKLatar belakang: Tumor parafaring meliputi sekitar 0,5% dari seluruh tumor kepala dan leher, sebagianbesar jinak. Tumor jinak yang paling sering adalah tumor kelenjar liur, paraganglioma dan tumor neurogenik.Tumor parafaring ini penting disebabkan sulit untuk melakukan diagnosis dini karena sedikitnya gejala padatahap awal dan kemungkinan komplikasi yang dapat terjadi pada saat dilakukan tindakan bedah di daerahparafaring. Tujuan: Kasus ini diajukan agar para dokter umum dan spesialis Telinga Hidung Tenggorok dapatmengenali diagnosis dan penatalaksanaan tumor parafaring. Kasus: Dilaporkan satu kasus tumorneuroendokrin parafaring pada laki-laki usia 37 tahun. Penatalaksanaan: Pada pasien ini dilakukan proseduruntuk mendiagnosis tumor dan dilakukan ekstirpasi massa tumor. Kesimpulan: Tumor parafaring merupakansalah satu dari tumor kepala dan leher yang mempunyai prognosis baik terutama bila didiagnosis secara dinidan diterapi secara adekuat.Kata kunci: Tumor neuroendokrin, spatium parafaring, tumor jinak.
Adenoma pleomorfik kelenjar saliva pada bayi
Authors: Perkasa Muhammad Fadjar , Kurniawati Dewi
Published: September 2018

Latar belakang: Adenoma pleomorfik adalah tumor kelenjar saliva yang paling sering ditemukan, yang merupakan suatu tumor jinak campuran yang terdiri dari sel-sel epitel dan diferensiasi mesenkimal. Adenomapleomorfik (AP) paling banyak ditemukan pada kelenjar saliva minor yang terdapat pada palatum, kemudian bibir, dasar rongga mulut, lidah, tonsil, faring, daerah retromolar dan rongga hidung. Kasus adenoma pleomorfik pada tonsil sangat jarang ditemukan, insiden AP lebih sering pada wanita dibanding pria dan terjadi pada usia 40-60 tahun, paling banyak pada usia 43-46 tahun. Tujuan: Melaporkan satu kasus AP pada tonsil seorang bayi yangberumur 7 bulan yang dilakukan tindakan ekstirpasi tumor trans-oral. Kasus: Seorang bayi perempuan umur 7 bulan, berat 6 kg datang dengan keluhan utama mendengkur. Dari alloanamnesis (ibunya) riwayat mendengkur dialami sejak anak berusia 4 bulan, bunyi napas bertambah keras sejalan dengan bertambahnya umur. Pada usia 6bulan pasien mulai sesak napas terutama saat minum susu, kadang-kadang disertai regurgitasi saat minum susu, tidak ada riwayat demam, kejang dan influenza sebelumnya. Dari pemeriksaan fisis Telinga Hidung Tenggorok (THT) tidak ditemukan kelainan pada pemeriksaan otoskopi dan rinoskopi anterior. Pada pemeriksaan faringoskopiditemukan massa pada pole atas fossa tonsilaris, tonsil T1 di inferior dari massa. Tonsil kiri T1 tenang. Bayi ini didiagnosis tumor tonsil kanan. Penatalaksanaan: Dilakukan tindakan eksterpasi tumor pada rongga mulut. Hasil pemeriksaan histopatologik jaringan tumor setelah tindakan eksterpasi tumor trans oral adalah adenoma pleomorfik sesuai dengan gambaran makroskopis massa. Kesimpulan: Suatu kasus tumor kelenjar saliva, yang sangat jarang terjadi pada anak.Kata kunci : Adenoma pleomorfik, tumor kelenjar saliva, ekstirpasi tumor trans oral.
Penanganan mikrotia bilateral: laporan kasus berbasis bukti
Authors: Widodo Dini Widiarni , Priyono Harim , Suryati Irma
Published: September 2018

Latar Belakang: Mikrotia didefinisikan sebagai daun telinga berukuran kecil dengan insiden sekitar 1 dari 7000-8000 ribu kelahiran, dengan insiden pada satu telinga sekitar empat kali lipat lebih banyak dibanding dua telinga. Rekonstruksi mikrotia merupakan salah satu prosedur cukup sulit pada bidang plastik rekonstruksi. Saat ini, penggunaan tandur tulang rawan iga autologus masih menjadi baku emas untuk rekonstruksi mikrotia. Tujuan: mengingatkan kembali para ahli THT tentang pertimbangan pemilihan rekonstruksi bersamaan pada kasus mikrotia bilateral dengan pencarian literatur berbasis bukti. Kasus: dilaporkan satu kasus mikrotia bilateral derajat 3, dengan hantaran tulang telinga kanan 60 dB, dan hantaran tulang telinga kiri 72,5 dB. Dengan pertimbangan memilih rekonstruksi bersamaan atau bertahap pada kedua telinga dan mengetahui prediksi perbaikan fungsi pendengarannya. Penatalaksanaan: aurikuloplasti tahap 1 dilakukan bersamaan pada kedua telinga. Skor Jahrsdoefer kedua telinga masing-masing 3 dan karena keterbatasan ekonomi dianjurkan menggunakan alat bantu dengar bukan BAHA untuk mengatasi hambatan komunikasi. Kesimpulan: penatalaksanaan mikrotia bilateral di bidang THT tidak hanya mencakup aspek rekonstruksi bentuk namun menekankan fungsi telinga sebagai alat berkomunikasi yang optimal. Kata kunci: mikrotia bilateral, ambang pendengaran, aurikuloplasti. ABSTRACTBackground:Microtia is defined as small sized ear with incidence approximately 1 in 7000-8000 births, which incidents in one ear is 4 times more compared to bilateral ear. Microtia reconstruction is one of difficult procedures in plastic reconstruction field. Recently, the use of rib cartilage autograft is still the gold standard for ear reconstruction. Purpose: to inform otorhinolaryngologist concerning simultaneous ear reconstruction in bilateral microtia case with evidence based method. Case: a third grade bilateral microtia, with the result of bone conduction are 60 dB for right ear dan 72,5 dB for left ear, the consideration to reconstruct both ear simultaneously or gradually, and how to predict the hearing improvement Management: first step of auriculoplasty was done in both ears, with Jahrsdoefer score is 3 for each ear, BAHA is adviceable but due to economic limitation the patients chose hearing aids. Conclusion: Bilateral microtia management in otorhinolaryngology does not only emphasize on ear reconstruction aspects but also to restore ear function as a means of optimal communicating.Keywords: bilateral microtia, hearing thresholds, auriculoplasty.
Angiotensin II-induced stimulation of collagen secretion and production in cardiac fibroblasts is mediated via angiotensin II subtype 1 receptors
Authors: Lijnen Paul J , Petrov Victor V , Fagard Robert H
Published: September 2018

The possible contributions of the angiotensin receptor subtypes 1 (AT1) and 2 (AT2) to angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced changes in collagen secretion and production were studied using the specific angiotensin AT1- and AT 2-receptor antagonists telmisartan and P-186, respectively. Cardiac fibroblasts (from normal male adult rats) from passage 2 were cultured to confluency and incubated in the presence of 10-10 to 10-6 M Ang II in serum-free Dulbecco's MEM medium for 24 hours. Collagen production and secretion were assayed by 3H-Proline incorporation; non-collagen production and secretion were also calculated. Ang II dose-dependently increased collagen secretion and production in rat adult cardiac fibroblasts in culture. Non-collagen secretion and production were also concentration-dependently increased by Ang II. Addition of 100 nmol/l Ang II increased (p<0.01) collagen secretion and production by 75±6 (SEM)% and 113±23%, respectively, and non-collagen secretion and production by 65±6% and 57±16%, respectively. Pretreatment of cardiac fibroblasts with telmisartan completely blocked the Ang II-induced increase in collagen secretion (p<0.001) and production (p<0.05) and in non-collagen secretion (p<0.01) and production (p<0.01). P-186 had no effect on the Ang II-induced increase in collagen secretion and production. Addition of telmisartan and P-186 did not affect collagen secretion and production in basal cardiac fibroblasts. Our data demonstrate that the effects of Ang II on collagen secretion and production in adult rat cardiac fibroblasts in culture are AT1-receptor mediated, since they were abolished by the specific AT1-receptor antagonist, telmisartan, but not by the specific AT2-receptor antagonist, P-186.
Angiotensin II receptor blockade blocker pre-treatment largely prevents injury from gradual renal ablation in rats
Authors: Hye Won Park  , Kim Youngki , Kee Hyuck Kim  , Hyeon Joo Jeong  , Shin Myung-Hee , Rozen Silvia , Mauer Michael
Published: September 2018

Introduction. Reduction in renal mass in rats results in progressive proteinuria, hypertension, focal-segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSG), atrophy of tubules (AT), and interstitial expansion. We reported that slow reduction of renal tissue in rats (slow ablation) ending in the removal of 1.5 kidneys is associated, over the next six months, with higher albumin excretion rates (AER) and accelerated development of FSG lesions compared to sudden equivalent renal mass reduction. It was hypothesised that slow reduction of nephron numbers allows for a process of conditioning of residual nephrons that increases their susceptibility to subsequent injury.

Methods. To test this idea we treated MünichWistar rats with the angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) losartan for six weeks during the gradual staged surgical removal of 1.5 kidneys, and compared them to sham operated controls, and parallel groups untreated by losartan.

Results. Despite discontinuation of losartan over the subsequent six months, ARB pre-treatment completely prevented proteinuria and hypertension in these slow renal ablation rats. ARB pre-treatment also largely prevented the subsequent development of FSG,AT, and interstitial expansion in these animals. Both losartan-treated and untreated renal ablation groups had glomerular enlargement and compensatory hyperfiltration and this was uninfluenced by losartan.

Conclusion. Temporary ARB administration during gradual renal mass reduction resulted in long-term prevention of hypertension and albuminuria and greatly reduced FSG and tubular and interstitial lesions. We hypothesise that the preconditioning of residual nephrons in the gradual ablation model which facilitates their subsequent injury, is blunted by renin-angiotensin system blockade.
Expression Analysis of the Prolific Candidate Genes, BMPR1B, BMP15, and GDF9 in Small Tail Han Ewes with Three Fecundity (FecB Gene) Genotypes
Authors: Tang Jishun , Hu Wenping , Di Ran , Liu Qiuyue , Wang Xiangyu , Zhang Xiaosheng , Zhang Jinlong , Chu Mingxing
Published: September 2018

The expression characteristics of the prolific candidate genes, BMPR1B, BMP15, and GDF9, in the major visceral organs and hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis tissues of three FecB genotypes (FecB BB, FecB B+, and FecB ++) were explored in STH ewes using RT-PCR and qPCR. The results were as follows, BMPR1B was expressed in all FecB BB genotype (Han BB) tissues, and GDF9 was expressed in all selected tissues, but BMP15 was specifically expressed in the ovaries. Further study of ovarian expression indicated that there was no difference in BMPR1B expression between genotypes, but the FecB B+ genotype (Han B+) had greater expression of GDF9 and BMP15 than Han BB and FecB ++ genotype (Han ++) (p < 0.05, p < 0.01). BMP15 expression was lower in the ovaries of Han BB than in Han ++ sheep, but the reverse was shown for GDF9. The gene expression in non-ovarian tissues was also different between genotypes. Therefore, we consider that the three genes have an important function in ovine follicular development and maturation. This is the first systematic analysis of the tissue expression pattern of BMPR1B, BMP15, and GDF9 genes in STH sheep of the three FecB genotypes. These results contribute to the understanding of the molecular regulatory mechanism for ovine reproduction.
Numerical Investigation of Energy Saving Characteristic in Building Roof Coupled with PCM Using Lattice Boltzmann Method with Economic Analysis
Authors: Shao Bilin , Du Xingxuan , Ren Qinlong
Published: September 2018

Due to their characteristics of high energy storage density and a nearly constant melting temperature, phase change materials (PCMs) could be inserted into the roof of green buildings in order to reduce the energy consumption and ameliorate the room thermal comfort. In this paper, an enthalpy based multiple-relaxation-time (MRT) lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) was developed to calculate the transient phase change conjugate heat transfer with solar radiation inside the green building’s PCM roof in the hot summer and cold winter areas of China. The effect of the PCM melting temperature on the variation of the roof internal temperature was investigated and the energy saving characteristic of the PCM roof under an intermittent energy utilization condition was also analyzed by comparing with the performance of the roof filled with sensible insulating materials (SIMs). Then, the life cycle incremental costs and incremental benefits of a PCM roof and SIM roof were studied by using the comprehensive incremental benefit model so that the green building roof could be economically evaluated. The results indicate that a temperature rise inside the roof during summer cooling time could be delayed due to the latent heat of the PCMs. It was also found that the melting temperature and the thickness of the PCM layer should be chosen appropriately for enhancing the energy saving amount of a PCM roof. Based on this, the PCM roof could have a better energy saving capability than the SIM roof. During the winter heating time, as the environment temperature and the room temperature are both below the PCM melting temperature, the PCM roof does not have a latent heat characteristic so that it performs like a SIM roof. Furthermore, due to the high price of PCMs, the incremental cost of green building is increased, which makes the PCM roof have a negative comprehensive incremental benefit. Under this circumstance, developing PCMs with a low price and stable chemical properties is a key scientific bottleneck for a wider application of PCM roofs in the architecture engineering field.
Hybridization of Layered Iron Hydroxide Nanoclays and Conducting Polymer for Controlled Oxygen Scavenger
Authors: Kim Hyoung-Jun , Kim Tae-Hyun , Park Jin Kuen , Oh Jae-Min
Published: September 2018

We suggest green rust (GR), one of layered nanoclays, as a potential oxygen scavenger. In order to achieve controlled oxygen scavenging ability, GRs were prepared with either sulfate or conducting polymer. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns showed that both GRs had hydrotalcite phase with slight differences in crystallinity upon anion type. X-ray adsorption spectra (XAS) indicated that the local structure of both GRs were similar regardless of the type of anion. On the other hand, zeta-potential values of GRs were different from each other according to the type of anion; GR with sulfate showed positive charge and GR with conducting polymer had slight negative charge due to the homogeneous hybridization. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) also suggested that the hybridization of conducting polymer and GR was fairly homogenous without the formation of phase segregation or serious aggregation. According to the oxygen-scavenging activity test, GR with conducting polymer showed a retarded oxygen-scavenging rate compared with GR with sulfate due to protection and controlled oxidation-reduction by hybridized polymer. The current results suggested that the hybridization of nanoclay with conducting polymer could be utilized in long-term oxygen scavenging applications with a controlled oxidation-reduction reaction.
A Multi-Objective Optimization of Energy, Economic, and Carbon Emission in a Production Model under Sustainable Supply Chain Management
Authors: Sarkar Biswajit , Omair Muhammad , Choi Seok-Beom
Published: September 2018

Nowadays, many industries are focusing on automation in manufacturing for high production and good quality to meet the needs of customers in a short period of time. This trend has produced a forward shift in technology in the form of advancement, which ultimately increases energy demand. For that reason, researchers have started working on sustainable development associated with cleaner-energy policies to avoid increasing energy consumption for enhanced manufacturing technology in developed countries. The other important issue affecting our world is global warming, which is the result of greenhouse gas emissions. That is the reason, renewable energies like solar energy have dramatically increased during recent years to compensate for the energy demand and reduced carbon footprint for cleaner production. This paper considers a supply chain management of automobile part manufacturing industry with suppliers to optimize the production quantity with multiple objectives i.e., minimizing the total cost of production including minimum quantity lubrication is a first objective, reduction of the carbon footprint is the second, and minimizing the cost of energy considering renewable energy is the last objective. This study considers a situation, where imperfect quality items are managed and controlled by the suppliers as outsourcing operations. A weighted goal programming methodology is utilized to solve the proposed mathematical model including sustainable suppliers. Sensitivity analysis of the model is performed for different scenarios with respect to the energy utilization. The optimal result of minimum production cost and carbon emissions is the evidence of successful pragmatic application in automobile industry. The results validate the model to provide the basis for sustainability in supply chain environment considering manufacturer and suppliers.
Relay Selection Scheme for Multi-Hop Transmission of MU-MIMO System
Authors: Kim Won-Chang , Paek Min-Jae , Song Hyoung-Kyu
Published: September 2018

Recently, wireless communication systems use a multi-hop transmission scheme using a relay to expand the cell coverage of the system. The multi-hop transmission scheme can expand the cell coverage of wireless communication systems. However, if an appropriate relay is not selected, errors generated during signal processing in the relay are transmitted to the receiver. Therefore, a relay selection scheme is essential for reliable multi-hop transmission. This paper proposes a relay selection scheme for reliable multi-hop transmission in a multi user-multiple input multiple output (MU-MIMO) system. The proposed relay selection scheme uses a MIMO channel matrix between the transmitter and relays to select an appropriate relay. The proposed relay selection scheme obtains the singular values of the MIMO channel matrix using the singular value decomposition (SVD). Then, the sum of the singular values is calculated, and the relay having the largest value is selected. Therefore, in the proposed relay selection scheme, although the transmitter only knows the channel information between the transmitter and relays, the transmitter can select an appropriate relay for reliable multi-hop transmission.
Distributed Strain Monitoring of Railway Composite Bogies Using a Brillouin Optical Correlation Domain Analysis System
Authors: Yoon Hyuk-Jin , Kim Jung-Seok , Song Kwang-Yong , Cho Hyun-Woo , Jung Ju-Yeong
Published: September 2018

The structural deformation of a bogie frame manufactured using a composite material was monitored in real time using a distributed optical fiber sensor. The bogie frame contained an internally embedded standard single-mode optical fiber. Performance tests were conducted by applying a vertical load to the middle of the side beams on each side of the composite bogie frame. The strain distribution was monitored using an optical fiber sensor. A distributed optical fiber sensor system based on the Brillouin optical correlation domain analysis (BOCDA) technique with a 3 cm spatial resolution was used. The distributed strain measured using the optical fiber correlated well with the finite element (FE) analysis data, confirming that the composite bogie frame was fabricated as designed. For a vertical load of 182 kN, the maximum strain, which occurred in the middle of the side frame, increased by 1.3 times, as compared with a vertical load of 140 kN. The experiment was able to verify the balance and the structural stability of the left- and right-hand-side beams. Furthermore, it could confirm that there was a concentrated load where the side beam and the crossbeam meet, owing to a mismatch during the assembly of the composite bogie frame.
Adaptive Tracking Constrained Controller Design for Solid Oxide Fuel Cells Based on a Wiener-Type Neural Network
Authors: Xia Yan , Zou Jianxiao , Yan Wenxu , Li Huayin
Published: September 2018

In order to solve the control problem of the solid oxide fuel cell(SOFC), a novel adaptive tracking constrained control strategy based on a Wiener-type neural network is proposed in this paper. The working principle of SOFC is introduced, and the dynamical model of SOFC is studied. Besides, a Wiener model formulation for SOFC is proposed to approximate the nonlinear dynamics of the system, and an adaptive Wiener model identification method is utilized to identify the parameters of the model. Moreover, an adaptive exponential PID controller is designed to keep the stack output voltage stable. Meanwhile, the saturation problem is considered in the paper including input magnitude and rate constraints. Additionally, an anti-windup compensator is employed to eliminate the abominable influence of the saturation problem. Then, the stability of the control plant is analyzed and proven via the Lyapunov function. Finally, the simulation based on the MATLAB/Simulink environment is carried out, and the conventional PID controller is added and simulated as a contrast to verify the control performance of the proposed control algorithm. The results indicate that the proposed control algorithm possesses favorable control performance when dealing with nonlinear systems with complex dynamics.
Biocompatible Coatings from Smart Biopolymer Nanoparticles for Enzymatically Induced Drug Release
Authors: Tolle Christian , Riedel Jan , Mikolai Carina , Winkel Andreas , Stiesch Meike , Wirth Dagmar , Menzel Henning
Published: September 2018

Nanoparticles can be used as a smart drug delivery system, when they release the drug only upon degradation by specific enzymes. A method to create such responsive materials is the formation of hydrogel nanoparticles, which have enzymatically degradable crosslinkers. Such hydrogel nanoparticles were prepared by ionotropic gelation sodium alginate with lysine-rich peptide sequences—either α-poly-L-lysine (PLL) or the aggrecanase-labile sequence KKKK-GRD-ARGSV↓NITEGE-DRG-KKKK. The nanoparticle suspensions obtained were analyzed by means of dynamic light scattering and nanoparticle tracking analysis. Degradation experiments carried out with the nanoparticles in suspension revealed enzyme-induced lability. Drugs present in the polymer solution during the ionotropic gelation can be encapsulated in the nanoparticles. Drug loading was investigated for interferon-β (IFN-β) as a model, using a bioluminescence assay with MX2Luc2 cells. The encapsulation efficiency for IFN-β was found to be approximately 25%. The nanoparticles suspension can be used to spray-coat titanium alloys (Ti-6Al-4V) as a common implant material. The coatings were proven by ellipsometry, reflection-absorption infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. An enzyme-responsive decrease in layer thickness is observed due to the degradation of the coatings. The Alg/peptide coatings were cytocompatible for human gingival fibroblasts (HGFIB), which was investigated by CellTiterBlue and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay. However, HGFIBs showed poor adhesion and proliferation on the Alg/peptide coatings, but these could be improved by modification of the alginate with a RGD-peptide sequence. The smart drug release system presented can be further tailored to have the right release kinetics and cell adhesion properties.
Ovarian Tumor Microenvironment Signaling: Convergence on the Rac1 GTPase
Authors: Hudson Laurie G. , Gillette Jennifer M. , Kang Huining , Rivera Melanie R. , Wandinger-Ness Angela
Published: September 2018

The tumor microenvironment for epithelial ovarian cancer is complex and rich in bioactive molecules that modulate cell-cell interactions and stimulate numerous signal transduction cascades. These signals ultimately modulate all aspects of tumor behavior including progression, metastasis and therapeutic response. Many of the signaling pathways converge on the small GTPase Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate (Rac)1. In addition to regulating actin cytoskeleton remodeling necessary for tumor cell adhesion, migration and invasion, Rac1 through its downstream effectors, regulates cancer cell survival, tumor angiogenesis, phenotypic plasticity, quiescence, and resistance to therapeutics. In this review we discuss evidence for Rac1 activation within the ovarian tumor microenvironment, mechanisms of Rac1 dysregulation as they apply to ovarian cancer, and the potential benefits of targeting aberrant Rac1 activity in this disease. The potential for Rac1 contribution to extraperitoneal dissemination of ovarian cancer is addressed.
Straightforward Design for Phenoxy-Imine Catalytic Activity in Ethylene Polymerization: Theoretical Prediction
Authors: Chasing Pongsakorn , Maitarad Phornphimon , Wu Hongmin , Zhang Dengsong , Shi Liyi , Promarak Vinich
Published: September 2018

The quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) of 18 Ti-phenoxy-imine (FI-Ti)-based catalysts was investigated to clarify the role of the structural properties of the catalysts in polyethylene polymerization activity. The electronic properties of the FI-Ti catalysts were analyzed based on density functional theory with the M06L/6-31G** and LANL2DZ basis functions. The analysis results of the QSAR equation with a genetic algorithm showed that the polyethylene catalytic activity mainly depended on the highest occupied molecular orbital energy level and the total charge of the substituent group on phenylimine ring. The QSAR models showed good predictive ability (R2) and R2 cross validation (R2cv) values of greater than 0.927. The design concept is “head-hat”, where the hats are the phenoxy-imine substituents, and the heads are the transition metals. Thus, for the newly designed series, the phenoxy-imine substituents still remained, while the Ti metal was replaced by Zr or Ni transition metals, entitled FI-Zr and FI-Ni, respectively. Consequently, their polyethylene polymerization activities were predicted based on the obtained QSAR of the FI-Ti models, and it is noteworthy that the FI-Ni metallocene catalysts tend to increase the polyethylene catalytic activity more than that of FI-Zr complexes. Therefore, the new designs of the FI-Ni series are proposed as candidate catalysts for polyethylene polymerization, with their predicted activities in the range of 35,000–48,000 kg(PE)/mol(Cat.)·MPa·h. This combined density functional theory and QSAR analysis is useful and straightforward for molecular design or catalyst screening, especially in industrial research.
First-Principles Modeling in Heterogeneous Electrocatalysis
Authors: Alfonso Dominic R. , Tafen De Nyago , Kauffmann Douglas R.
Published: September 2018

The last decade has witnessed tremendous progress in the development of computer simulation based on quantum mechanical description of the interactions between electrons and between electrons and atomic nuclei with electrode potentials taken into account–promoting the possibility to model electrocatalytic reactions. The cornerstone of this development was laid by the widely used computational hydrogen electrode method which involves a posteriori correction of standard constant charge first principles studies in solvent environment. The description of this technique and its contribution to our effort to understand electrocatalytic reactions on the active sites of metal-based nanoparticles are reviewed. The pathways and energetics of the relevant elementary reactions are presented. We also discussed a recent attempt in the literature to account for the inflow and outflow of electrons from the electrode as electrochemical reactions proceed, which has been greatly assisted by the development of density functional theory within the grand canonical framework. Going beyond the computational hydrogen electrode method by explicit incorporation of electrode potential within the calculations permits access to more detailed insights without requiring extra computational burden.
Emerging Picture of Deuterosome-Dependent Centriole Amplification in MCCs
Authors: Shahid Umama , Singh Priyanka
Published: September 2018

Multiciliated cells (MCCs) have several hair-like structures called cilia, which are required to propel substances on their surface. A cilium is organized from a basal body which resembles a hollow microtubule structure called a centriole. In terminally differentiated MCCs, hundreds of new basal bodies/centrioles are formed via two parallel pathways: the centriole- and deuterosome-dependent pathways. The deuterosome-dependent pathway is also referred to as “de novo” because unlike the centriole-dependent pathway which requires pre-existing centrioles, in the de novo pathway multiple new centrioles are organized around non-microtubule structures called deuterosomes. In the last five years, some deuterosome-specific markers have been identified and concurrent advancements in the super-resolution techniques have significantly contributed to gaining insights about the major stages of centriole amplification during ciliogenesis. Altogether, a new picture is emerging which also challenges the previous notion that deuterosome pathway is de novo. This review is primarily focused on studies that have contributed towards the better understanding of deuterosome-dependent centriole amplification and presents a developing model about the major stages identified during this process.
Estrogen Modulates Glycerol Permeability in Sertoli Cells through Downregulation of Aquaporin-9
Authors: Bernardino Raquel L. , Carrageta David F. , Silva Ana M. , Calamita Giuseppe , Alves Marco G. , Soveral Graça , Oliveira Pedro F.
Published: September 2018

High 17β-Estradiol (E2) levels are known to cause alterations of spermatogenesis and environments throughout the male reproductive tract. Sertoli cells (SCs) ensure an adequate environment inside the seminiferous tubule. Glycerol stands as essential for the maintenance of blood–testis barrier created by SCs, however, the role of E2 in this process is not known. Herein, we hypothesized that the effect of E2 on glycerol permeability in mouse SCs (mSCs) could be mediated by aquaglyceroporins. The expression of aquaglyceroporins was assessed by RT-PCR and qRT-PCR. Glycerol permeability was evaluated by stopped-flow light scattering. We were able to identify the expression of AQP3 and AQP9 in mSCs where AQP9 is more abundant than AQP3. Our results show that high E2 levels decrease AQP9 mRNA abundance with no influence on AQP3 in mSCs. Interestingly, high E2 levels decreased mSCs’ permeability to glycerol, while downregulating AQP9 expression, thus suggesting a novel mechanism by which E2 modulates fluid secretion in the testis. In conclusion, E2 is an important regulator of mSCs physiology and secretion through changes in AQP9 expression and function. Thus, alterations in glycerol permeability induced by E2 may be the cause for male infertility in cases associated with the presence of high E2 levels.
Relationship between Genetic Variability and Land Use and Land Cover in Populations of Campomanesia adamantium (Myrtaceae)
Authors: Crispim Bruno do Amaral , Bajay Miklos Maximiliano , Vasconcelos Adrielle Ayumi de , Deo Thamiris Gatti , Braga Ramilla dos Santos , Telles Mariana Pires de Campos , Vieira Maria do Carmo , Carnevali Thiago de Oliveira , Solórzano Julio César Jut , Grisolia Alexeia Barufatti
Published: September 2018

Campomanesia adamantium is an endemic plant of Cerrado biome that has potential for cultivation because its fruits have culinary and medicinal uses. However, genetic diversity studies using molecular markers with Cerrado species are scarce, and the inadequate extractive exploitation of fruits and the expansion of agricultural frontiers may also affect genetic variability. Therefore, studies in this field are of interest as they can provide sources for conservation and breeding programs. In this context, we investigated the genetic diversity of native populations of C. adamantium from different sites and the relationship between genetic variability and the land use and land cover of each site. A total of 207 plants were sampled in seven sites and characterized with seven polymorphic microsatellite markers. The use and coverage of land were mapped based on aerial images, and the land was classified into different categories. The genetic diversity was high in all populations, with low levels of differentiation due to allele sharing, mainly in Mato Grosso do Sul and Paraguay populations. The geographically closest populations were more genetically similar. The use and coverage of land indicated that intense agriculture promotes a significant decrease in genetic variability.
Interaction Information Along Lifespan of the Resting Brain Dynamics Reveals a Major Redundant Role of the Default Mode Network
Authors: Camino-Pontes Borja , Diez Ibai , Jimenez-Marin Antonio , Rasero Javier , Erramuzpe Asier , Bonifazi Paolo , Stramaglia Sebastiano , Swinnen Stephan , Cortes Jesus M.
Published: September 2018

Interaction Information (II) generalizes the univariate Shannon entropy to triplets of variables, allowing the detection of redundant (R) or synergetic (S) interactions in dynamical networks. Here, we calculated II from functional magnetic resonance imaging data and asked whether R or S vary across brain regions and along lifespan. Preserved along lifespan, we found high overlapping between the pattern of high R and the default mode network, whereas high values of S were overlapping with different cognitive domains, such as spatial and temporal memory, emotion processing and motor skills. Moreover, we have found a robust balance between R and S among different age intervals, indicating informational compensatory mechanisms in brain networks.