bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monitoring the outcomes of interventions against Taenia solium: options and suggestions
Authors: Lightowlers M. W. , Garcia H. H. , Gauci C. G. , Donadeu M. , Abela‐Ridder B.
Published: November 2015

There is an increasing interest in reducing the incidence of human neurocysticercosis, caused by infection with the larval stage of Taenia solium. Several intervention trials are currently assessing various options for control of T. solium transmission. A critical aspect of these trials will be the evaluation of whether the interventions have been successful. However, there is no consensus about the most appropriate or valuable methods that should be used. Here, we undertake a critical assessment of the diagnostic tests which are currently available for human T. solium taeniasis and human and porcine cysticercosis, as well as their suitability for evaluation of intervention trial outcomes. Suggestions are made about which of the measures that are available for evaluation of T. solium interventions would be most suitable, and which methodologies are the most appropriate given currently available technologies. Suggestions are also made in relation to the most urgent research needs in order to address deficiencies in current diagnostic methods.
Can commercial soil microbial treatments remediate plant–soil feedbacks to improve restoration seedling performance?
Authors: Perkins Lora B. , Hatfield Gary
Published: November 2015

Seedling performance is often a limiting factor in ecological restoration. Changes in the soil microbial community generated by invasive plants contribute to seedling failure. A method to remediate invasive species‐induced changes to the soil microbial community that results in increased native species seedling performance and decreased invasive species seedling performance could have a large impact on the success of many restoration efforts. In a greenhouse experiment, we first examined the changes in the soil microbial community created by invasive compared to native grasses. Then, we investigated four microbial treatments (bacterial inoculant, fungal inoculant, fungicide, and bactericide/fungicide) to remediate microbial plant–soil feedbacks (PSFs) created by invasive species Bromus inermis and Poa pratensis and increase the performance of natives Andropogon gerardii, Elymus canadensis, Pascopyrum smithii, and Schizachyrium scoparium. We found that the PSF mitigation treatments had some context‐dependent utility for restoration. For example, all of the treatments decreased the performance of B. inermis and fungal inoculant decreased the performance of P. pratensis. However, no single treatment increased the performance of all natives. Fungicide increased the performance of A. gerardii and E. canadensis in soil previously occupied by B. inermis and the performance of S. scoparium in soil previously occupied by P. pratensis. If validated in the field, PSF mitigation treatments may have utility for restoration practitioners.
Contested Lands? Dissonance and Common Ground in Stakeholder Views on Forest Values
Authors: Haugen Katarina
Published: November 2015

Forest lands are used in increasingly plural ways and serve society with numerous benefits. This paper analyses the views of private forest owners and the general public in Sweden on the values of the forest. Two main dimensions were identified: ‘preservation and recreation’ values, reflecting ecological and social aspects; and ‘production’ values, reflecting economic aspects. While the general public emphasised the importance of forest uses which cater to ecological and social forest values more strongly compared to the forest owners, no significant difference was found concerning economic forest values. This suggests that while there is scope for contestation over forest land use, there is also some potential for common ground across stakeholder groups. These findings add to the body of knowledge of the views on the use of forest lands, and can inform forest related planning, management and policy development.
Outcomes of Clostridium difficile infection in pediatric solid organ transplant recipients
Authors: Pant C. , Deshpande A. , Desai M. , Jani B.S. , Sferra T.J. , Gilroy R. , Olyaee M.
Published: November 2015

Background

The incidence of Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is increasing in the pediatric population. Pediatric recipients of solid organ transplantation (SOT) may be at a higher risk for CDI in part because of chemotherapy and prolonged hospitalization.

Methods

We utilized data from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project Kids' Inpatient Database to study the incidence and outcomes related to CDI as a complicating factor in pediatric recipients of SOT.

Results

Our results demonstrate that hospitalized children with SOT have increased rates of infection, with the greatest risk for younger children with additional comorbidities and severe illness. The type of transplanted organ affects the risk for CDI, with the lowest incidence observed in renal transplant patients.

Conclusion

The occurrence of CDI in the pediatric SOT population contributes to a greater length of stay and higher hospital charges. However, CDI is not an independent predictor of increased in‐ hospital mortality in these patients.
Human papillomavirus detected in viral warts of renal transplant recipients
Authors: Martelli‐Marzagão F. , Santos Junior G.F. , Ogawa M.M. , Enokihara M.M.S.S. , Porro A.M. , Tomimori J.
Published: November 2015

Objectives

Few studies have been conducted in South America regarding the detection and genotyping of human papillomavirus (HPV) in viral warts of renal transplant recipients (RTRs). The characterization of the population most susceptible to the development of warts and the knowledge of the main HPV types in this environment prompted this study, which focuses on the detection and typing of HPV in RTRs in Brazil.

Methods

Fifty‐eight patients with viral warts from the Hospital São Paulo/Federal University of São Paulo were included in this study. HPV was detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using combinations of the following primers: PGMY 09/11, RK 91, CP 65/70, and CP 66/69. Restriction fragment length polymorphism and automated sequencing techniques were used for HPV typing.

Results

HPV was detected by PCR in 89.7% of viral wart samples. The most frequently detected HPV types included 57, 27, 1a, 2a, and 20. Other types of HPV‐epidermodysplasia verruciformis were also detected, including 14, 15, 19, 20, 21, 23, 36, and 38. Rare HPV types were also detected in our environment, including RTR X1, RTR X7, and 100. The time after transplant was correlated with an increased number of lesions and beta papillomavirus genus infection.

Conclusions

The HPV types detected in the RTR population were similar to those described in immunocompetent populations. However, the diversity of the HPV types identified and the number of lesions were increased in the RTR population.
SNAC‐As, stress‐responsive NAC transcription factors, mediate ABA‐inducible leaf senescence
Authors: Takasaki Hironori , Maruyama Kyonoshin , Takahashi Fuminori , Fujita Miki , Yoshida Takuya , Nakashima Kazuo , Myouga Fumiyoshi , Toyooka Kiminori , Yamaguchi‐Shinozaki Kazuko , Shinozaki Kazuo
Published: October 2015

Leaf senescence is the terminal phenotype of plant leaf development, and ethylene is a major plant hormone inducing leaf senescence. Recent studies have shown that abscisic acid (ABA) also induces leaf senescence. However, the detailed mechanisms of ABA‐induced leaf senescence remain unclear. We focused on the A subfamily of stress‐responsive NAC (SNAC‐A) transcription factors, the expression of which is induced by abiotic stresses, particularly ABA. Gene expression analysis revealed that seven SNAC‐A genes including ANAC055, ANAC019, ANAC072/RD26, ANAC002/ATAF1, ANAC081/ATAF2, ANAC102 and ANAC032 were induced by long‐term treatment with ABA and/or during age‐dependent senescence. The SNAC‐A septuple mutant clearly showed retardation of ABA‐inducible leaf senescence. Microarray analysis indicated that SNAC‐As induce ABA‐ and senescence‐inducible genes. In addition, comparison of the expression profiles of the downstream genes of SNAC‐As and ABA‐responsive element (ABRE)‐binding protein (AREB)/ABRE‐binding factor (ABF) (AREB/ABFs) indicates that SNAC‐As induce a different set of ABA‐inducible genes from those mediated by AREB/ABFs. These results suggest that SNAC‐As play crucial roles in ABA‐induced leaf senescence signaling. We also discuss the function of SNAC‐As in the transcriptional change of leaf senescence as well as in ABA response under abiotic stress conditions.
The natural behavior of mononuclear phagocytes in HTS formation
Authors: Zhu Zhensen , Ding Jie , Ma Zengshuan , Iwashina Takashi , Tredget Edward E
Published: October 2015

Hypertrophic scars (HTS) are caused by trauma or burn injuries to the deep dermis and are considered fibrosis in the skin. Monocytes, M1 and M2 macrophages are mononuclear phagocytes. Studies suggest that M2 macrophages are profibrotic and might contribute to HTS formation. Our lab has established a human HTS‐like nude mouse model, in which the grafted human skin develops red, raised, and firm scarring, resembling HTS seen in humans. In this study, we observed the natural behavior of mononuclear phagocyte system in this nude mouse model of dermal fibrosis at multiple time points. Thirty athymic nude mice received human skin grafts and an equal number of mice received mouse skin grafts as controls. The grafted skin and blood were harvested at 1, 2, 3, 4, and 8 weeks. Wound area, thickness, collagen morphology and level, the cell number of myofibroblasts, M1‐ and M2‐like macrophages in the grafted skin, as well as monocyte fraction in the blood were investigated at each time points. Xenografted mice developed contracted and thickened scars grossly. The xenografted skin resembled human HTS tissue based on enhanced thickness, fibrotic orientation of collagen bundles, increased collagen level, and infiltration of myofibroblasts. In the blood, monocytes dramatically decreased at 1 week postgrafting and gradually returned to normal in the following 8 weeks. In the xenografted skin, M1‐like macrophages were found predominantly at 1–2 weeks postgrafting; whereas, M2‐like macrophages were abundant at later time points, 3–4 weeks postgrafting coincident with the development of fibrosis in the human skin tissues. This understanding of the natural behavior of mononuclear phagocytes in vivo in our mouse model provides evidence for the role of M2‐like macrophages in fibrosis of human skin and suggests that macrophage depletion in the subacute phases of wound healing might reduce or prevent HTS formation.
Detection and Molecular Characterization of Salmonella enterica Serovar Eppendorf Circulating in Chicken Farms in Tunisia
Authors: Ben Salem R. , Abbassi M.S. , García V. , García‐Fierro R. , Njoud C. , Messadi L. , Rodicio M. R.
Published: November 2015

Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Eppendorf, with antigenic formula 1,4,12,[27]:d:1,5, is an infrequent serovar. However, 14% (20 of 142) of the isolates recovered during June–July 2012 in chicken farms in Tunisia belonged to S. Eppendorf. These isolates were analysed for resistance and virulence profiles. None of them were susceptible to all antimicrobials tested, while 70%, 60%, 50%, 50%, 20% and 5% were resistant to sulphonamides (sul1, sul2 and sul3), streptomycin (aadA1‐like), trimethoprim (dfrA1‐like), nalidixic acid (GyrA Asp87→Asn and not identified), gentamicin (not identified) and ampicillin (blaTEM‐1‐like). About 30% of the isolates showed decreased susceptibility to ciprofloxacin and carried the qnrB gene; 65% of the isolates were multidrug resistant and contained class 1 integrons with sul1 or sul3 in the 3′ conserved segment. The orgA, ssaQ, mgtC, siiD and sopB virulence genes located on SPI1 to SPI5 and the fimbrial bcfC gene were present in all isolates; the sopE1 and sodC1 carried by prophages were variably detected; however, the prophage gipA gene and the spvC gene of serovar‐specific virulence plasmids were absent. Altogether, ten resistance and three virulence profiles were identified. Typing of the isolates with XbaI‐ and BlnI‐PFGE supports a close relationship, although they appear to be evolving under selective pressure probably caused by antimicrobial use in chicken husbandry. As far as we know, this is the first study investigating the molecular bases of antimicrobial drug resistance, the virulence gene content and the PFGE profiles of S. Eppendorf. The epidemiological surveillance of this serovar would be necessary to evaluate its possible impact on human health, particularly in Tunisia and other African countries where it was already reported.
Determination of Pressure Profile During Closed-Vessel Test Through Computational Fluid Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Bougamra Ahmed , Lu Huilin
Published: November 2015

Two-phase flow modeling of solid propellants has great potential for simulating and predicting the ballistic parameters in closed-vessel tests as well as in guns. This paper presents a numerical model describing the combustion of a solid propellant in a closed chamber and takes into account what happens in such two-phase, unsteady, reactive-flow systems. The governing equations were derived in the form of coupled, nonlinear axisymmetric partial differential equations. The governing equations with customized parameters were implemented into ansys fluent 14.5. The presented solutions predict the pressure profile inside the closed chamber. The results show that the present code adequately predicts the pressure–time history. The numerical results are in agreement with the experiment. Some discussions are given regarding the effect of the grain shape and the sensitivity of these predictions to the initial pressure of the solid propellant bed. The study demonstrated the capability of using the present model implemented into Fluent, to simulate the combustion of solid propellants in a closed vessel and, eventually, the interior ballistic process in guns.
Optimization of Profile Modifications With Regard to Dynamic Tooth Loads in Single and Double-Helical Planetary Gears With Flexible Ring-Gears
Authors: Chapron M. , Velex P. , Bruyère J. , Becquerelle S.
Published: November 2015

This paper is mostly aimed at analyzing optimum profile modifications (PMs) in planetary gears (PGTs) with regard to dynamic mesh forces. To this end, a dynamic model is presented based on 3D two-node gear elements connected to deformable ring-gears discretized into beam elements. Double-helical gears are simulated as two gear elements of opposite hands which are linked by shaft elements. Symmetric tip relief on external and internal gear meshes are introduced as time-varying normal deviations along the lines of contact and time-varying mesh stiffness functions are deduced from Wrinckler foundation models. The equations of motion are solved by coupling a Newmark time-step integration scheme and a contact algorithm to account for possible partial or total contact losses. Symmetric linear PMs for helical and double-helical PGTs are optimized by using a genetic algorithm with the objective of minimizing dynamic tooth loads over a speed range. Finally, the sensitivity of these optimum PMs to speed and load is analyzed.
The Synthesis of the Axodes of RCCC Linkages
Authors: Figliolini Giorgio , Rea Pierluigi , Angeles Jorge
Published: November 2015

As the coupler link of an RCCC linkage moves, its instant screw axis (ISA) sweeps a ruled surface on the fixed link; by the same token, the ISA describes on the coupler link itself a corresponding ruled surface. These two surfaces are the axodes of the linkage, which roll while sliding and maintaining line contact. The axodes not only help to visualize the motion undergone by the coupler link but also can be machined as spatial cams and replace the four-bar linkage, if the need arises. Reported in this paper is a procedure that allows the synthesis of the axodes of an RCCC linkage. The synthesis of this linkage, in turn, is based on dual algebra and the principle of transference, as applied to a spherical four-bar linkage with the same input–output function as the angular variables of the RCCC linkage. Examples of RCCC linkages are included. Moreover, to illustrate the generality of the synthesis procedure, it is also applied to a spherical linkage, namely, the Hooke joint, and to the Bennett linkage.
Variable Radius Drum Mechanisms
Authors: Seriani Stefano , Gallina Paolo
Published: November 2015

This paper presents the concept of variable radius drum mechanisms (VRDMs). A drum, or spool, consists of a spindle with flanges, around which a cable is wound. The cylindrical surface of an ordinary spool has a constant radius. In a variable radius drum (VRD), the radius of the spool varies along its profile. Properties of such devices are discussed, as well as the kinematic analysis and synthesis. The main contribution of the work is the theory of the VRD synthesis problem, rooted in a closed-form analytical solution. In order to highlight the benefits of VRDMs, two applications are presented and analyzed as examples. The first example consists of a mechanism which can support and guide a load along a horizontal linear path. The second example shows a solution to improve the locomotion of a legged robot. Finally, a prototype is made on the basis of the first case scenario and its performance is evaluated and discussed, showing a remarkable accuracy, with a deviation from the nominal trajectory of less than 1%.
Imaging textural variation in the acoustoelastic coefficient of aluminum using surface acoustic waves
Authors: Ellwood R. , Stratoudaki T. , Sharples S. D. , Clark M. , Somekh M. G.
Published: November 2015

Much interest has arisen in nonlinear acoustic techniques because of their reported sensitivity to variations in residual stress, fatigue life, and creep damage when compared to traditional linear ultrasonic techniques. However, there is also evidence that the nonlinear acoustic properties are also sensitive to material microstructure. As many industrially relevant materials have a polycrystalline structure, this could potentially complicate the monitoring of material processes when using nonlinear acoustics. Variations in the nonlinear acoustoelastic coefficient on the same length scale as the microstructure of a polycrystalline sample of aluminum are investigated in this paper. This is achieved by the development of a measurement protocol that allows imaging of the acoustoelastic response of a material across a samples surface at the same time as imaging the microstructure. The development, validation, and limitations of this technique are discussed. The nonlinear acoustic response is found to vary spatially by a large factor (>20) between different grains. A relationship is observed when the spatial variation of the acoustoelastic coefficient is compared to the variation in material microstructure.
Vitamin C could target some common cancers
Authors: Kaiser Jocelyn
Published: November 2015

Therapy kills tumor cells with difficult-to-treat mutation.
MAVEN observations of the response of Mars to an interplanetary coronal mass ejection
Authors: Jakosky B. M. , Grebowsky J. M. , Luhmann J. G. , Connerney J. , Eparvier F. , Ergun R. , Halekas J. , Larson D. , Mahaffy P. , McFadden J. , Mitchell D. L. , Schneider N. , Zurek R. , Bougher S. , Brain D. , Ma Y. J. , Mazelle C. , Andersson L. , Andrews D. , Baird D. , Baker D. , Bell J. M. , Benna M. , Chaffin M. , Chamberlin P. , Chaufray Y.-Y. , Clarke J. , Collinson G. , Combi M. , Crary F. , Cravens T. , Crismani M. , Curry S. , Curtis D. , Deighan J. , Delory G. , Dewey R. , DiBraccio G. , Dong C. , Dong Y. , Dunn P. , Elrod M. , England S. , Eriksson A. , Espley J. , Evans S. , Fang X. , Fillingim M. , Fortier K. , Fowler C. M. , Fox J. , Gröller H. , Guzewich S. , Hara T. , Harada Y. , Holsclaw G. , Jain S. K. , Jolitz R. , Leblanc F. , Lee C. O. , Lee Y. , Lefevre F. , Lillis R. , Livi R. , Lo D. , Mayyasi M. , McClintock W. , McEnulty T. , Modolo R. , Montmessin F. , Morooka M. , Nagy A. , Olsen K. , Peterson W. , Rahmati A. , Ruhunusiri S. , Russell C. T. , Sakai S. , Sauvaud J.-A. , Seki K. , Steckiewicz M. , Stevens M. , Stewart A. I. F. , Stiepen A. , Stone S. , Tenishev V. , Thiemann E. , Tolson R. , Toublanc D. , Vogt M. , Weber T. , Withers P. , Woods T. , Yelle R.
Published: November 2015

Coupling between the lower and upper atmosphere, combined with loss of gas from the upper atmosphere to space, likely contributed to the thin, cold, dry atmosphere of modern Mars. To help understand ongoing ion loss to space, the Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution (MAVEN) spacecraft made comprehensive measurements of the Mars upper atmosphere, ionosphere, and interactions with the Sun and solar wind during an interplanetary coronal mass ejection impact in March 2015. Responses include changes in the bow shock and magnetosheath, formation of widespread diffuse aurora, and enhancement of pick-up ions. Observations and models both show an enhancement in escape rate of ions to space during the event. Ion loss during solar events early in Mars history may have been a major contributor to the long-term evolution of the Mars atmosphere.
Early MAVEN Deep Dip campaign reveals thermosphere and ionosphere variability
Authors: Bougher S. , Jakosky B. , Halekas J. , Grebowsky J. , Luhmann J. , Mahaffy P. , Connerney J. , Eparvier F. , Ergun R. , Larson D. , McFadden J. , Mitchell D. , Schneider N. , Zurek R. , Mazelle C. , Andersson L. , Andrews D. , Baird D. , Baker D. N. , Bell J. M. , Benna M. , Brain D. , Chaffin M. , Chamberlin P. , Chaufray J.-Y. , Clarke J. , Collinson G. , Combi M. , Crary F. , Cravens T. , Crismani M. , Curry S. , Curtis D. , Deighan J. , Delory G. , Dewey R. , DiBraccio G. , Dong C. , Dong Y. , Dunn P. , Elrod M. , England S. , Eriksson A. , Espley J. , Evans S. , Fang X. , Fillingim M. , Fortier K. , Fowler C. M. , Fox J. , Gröller H. , Guzewich S. , Hara T. , Harada Y. , Holsclaw G. , Jain S. K. , Jolitz R. , Leblanc F. , Lee C. O. , Lee Y. , Lefevre F. , Lillis R. , Livi R. , Lo D. , Ma Y. , Mayyasi M. , McClintock W. , McEnulty T. , Modolo R. , Montmessin F. , Morooka M. , Nagy A. , Olsen K. , Peterson W. , Rahmati A. , Ruhunusiri S. , Russell C. T. , Sakai S. , Sauvaud J.-A. , Seki K. , Steckiewicz M. , Stevens M. , Stewart A. I. F. , Stiepen A. , Stone S. , Tenishev V. , Thiemann E. , Tolson R. , Toublanc D. , Vogt M. , Weber T. , Withers P. , Woods T. , Yelle R.
Published: November 2015

The Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution (MAVEN) mission, during the second of its Deep Dip campaigns, made comprehensive measurements of martian thermosphere and ionosphere composition, structure, and variability at altitudes down to ~130 kilometers in the subsolar region. This altitude range contains the diffusively separated upper atmosphere just above the well-mixed atmosphere, the layer of peak extreme ultraviolet heating and primary reservoir for atmospheric escape. In situ measurements of the upper atmosphere reveal previously unmeasured populations of neutral and charged particles, the homopause altitude at approximately 130 kilometers, and an unexpected level of variability both on an orbit-to-orbit basis and within individual orbits. These observations help constrain volatile escape processes controlled by thermosphere and ionosphere structure and variability.
Frustrating a quantum magnet
Authors: Furukawa Yuji
Published: November 2015

Nuclear magnetic resonance reveals the ground state of frustrated magnets

[Also see Report by

Fu
et al.

]
A pancreatic clock times insulin release
Authors: Dibner Charna , Schibler Ueli
Published: November 2015

Circadian oscillators of beta cells control insulin secretion and glucose homeostasis

[Also see Research Article by

Perelis
et al.

]
Pentanol and Benzyl Alcohol Attack Bacterial Surface Structures Differently
Authors: Yano Takehisa , Miyahara Yoshiko , Morii Noriyuki , Okano Tetsuya , Kubota Hiromi
Published: October 2015

The genus
Methylobacterium
tolerates hygiene agents like benzalkonium chloride (BAC), and infection with this organism is an important public health issue. Here, we found that the combination of BAC with particular alcohols at nonlethal concentrations in terms of their solitary uses significantly reduced bacterial viability after only 5 min of exposure. Among the alcohols, Raman spectroscopic analyses showed that pentanol (pentyl alcohol [PeA]) and benzyl alcohol (BzA) accelerated the cellular accumulation of BAC. Fluorescence spectroscopic assays and morphological assays with giant vesicles indicated that PeA rarely attacked membrane structures, while BzA increased the membrane fluidity and destabilized the structures. Other fluorescent spectroscopic assays indicated that PeA and BzA inactivate bacterial membrane proteins, including an efflux pump for BAC transportation. These findings suggested that the inactivation of membrane proteins by PeA and BzA led to the cellular accumulation but that only BzA also enhanced BAC penetration by membrane fluidization at nonlethal concentrations.
Whole-Genome Sequencing Analysis Accurately Predicts Antimicrobial Resistance Phenotypes in Campylobacter spp
Authors: Zhao S. , Tyson G. H. , Chen Y. , Li C. , Mukherjee S. , Young S. , Lam C. , Folster J. P. , Whichard J. M. , McDermott P. F.
Published: October 2015

The objectives of this study were to identify antimicrobial resistance genotypes for
Campylobacter
and to evaluate the correlation between resistance phenotypes and genotypes using
in vitro
antimicrobial susceptibility testing and whole-genome sequencing (WGS). A total of 114
Campylobacter
species isolates (82
C. coli
and 32
C. jejuni
) obtained from 2000 to 2013 from humans, retail meats, and cecal samples from food production animals in the United States as part of the National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System were selected for study. Resistance phenotypes were determined using broth microdilution of nine antimicrobials. Genomic DNA was sequenced using the Illumina MiSeq platform, and resistance genotypes were identified using assembled WGS sequences through blastx analysis. Eighteen resistance genes, including
tet
(O),
bla
OXA-61
,
catA
,
lnu
(C),
aph(2
″
)-Ib
,
aph(2
″
)-Ic
,
aph(2
′
)-If
,
aph(2
″
)-Ig
,
aph(2
″
)-Ih
,
aac(6
′
)-Ie-aph(2
″
)-Ia
,
aac(6
′
)-Ie-aph(2
″
)-If
,
aac(6
′
)-Im
,
aadE
,
sat4
,
ant(6
′
)
,
aad9
,
aph(3
′
)-Ic
, and
aph(3
′
)-IIIa
, and mutations in two housekeeping genes (
gyrA
and 23S rRNA) were identified. There was a high degree of correlation between phenotypic resistance to a given drug and the presence of one or more corresponding resistance genes. Phenotypic and genotypic correlation was 100% for tetracycline, ciprofloxacin/nalidixic acid, and erythromycin, and correlations ranged from 95.4% to 98.7% for gentamicin, azithromycin, clindamycin, and telithromycin. All isolates were susceptible to florfenicol, and no genes associated with florfenicol resistance were detected. There was a strong correlation (99.2%) between resistance genotypes and phenotypes, suggesting that WGS is a reliable indicator of resistance to the nine antimicrobial agents assayed in this study. WGS has the potential to be a powerful tool for antimicrobial resistance surveillance programs.
Reciprocal Regulation of GlnR and PhoP in Response to Nitrogen and Phosphate Limitations in Saccharopolyspora erythraea
Authors: Yao Li-li , Ye Bang-Ce
Published: October 2015

Nitrogen and phosphate source sensing, uptake, and assimilation are essential for the growth and development of microorganisms. In this study, we demonstrated that SACE_6965 encodes the phosphate regulator PhoP, which controls the transcription of genes involved in phosphate metabolism in the erythromycin-producing
Saccharopolyspora erythraea
. We found that PhoP and the nitrogen regulator GlnR both regulate the transcription of
glnR
as well as other nitrogen metabolism-related genes. Interestingly, both GlnR- and PhoP-binding sites were identified in the
phoP
promoter region. Unlike the nonreciprocal regulation of GlnR and PhoP observed in
Streptomyces coelicolor
and
Streptomyces lividans
, GlnR negatively controls the transcription of the
phoP
gene in
S. erythraea
. This suggests that GlnR directly affects phosphate metabolism and demonstrates that the cross talk between GlnR and PhoP is reciprocal. Although GlnR and PhoP sites in the
glnR
and
phoP
promoter regions are located in close proximity to one another (separated by only 2 to 4 bp), the binding of both regulators to their respective region was independent and noninterfering. These results indicate that two regulators could separately bind to their respective binding sites and control nitrogen and phosphate metabolism in response to environmental changes. The reciprocal cross talk observed between GlnR and PhoP serves as a foundation for understanding the regulation of complex primary and secondary metabolism in antibiotic-producing actinomycetes.
KAP1 Is a Host Restriction Factor That Promotes Human Adenovirus E1B-55K SUMO Modification
Authors: Bürck Carolin , Mund Andreas , Berscheminski Julia , Kieweg Lisa , Müncheberg Sarah , Dobner Thomas , Schreiner Sabrina
Published: November 2015

Once transported to the replication sites, human adenoviruses (HAdVs) need to ensure decondensation and transcriptional activation of their viral genomes to synthesize viral proteins and initiate steps to reprogram the host cell for viral replication. These early stages during adenoviral infection are poorly characterized but represent a decisive moment in the establishment of a productive infection. Here, we identify a novel host viral restriction factor, KAP1. This heterochromatin-associated transcription factor regulates the dynamic organization of the host chromatin structure via its ability to influence epigenetic marks and chromatin compaction. In response to DNA damage, KAP1 is phosphorylated and functionally inactive, resulting in chromatin relaxation. We discovered that KAP1 posttranslational modification is dramatically altered during HAdV infection to limit the antiviral capacity of this host restriction factor, which represents an essential step required for efficient viral replication. Conversely, we also observed during infection an HAdV-mediated decrease of KAP1 SUMO moieties, known to promote chromatin decondensation events. Based on our findings, we provide evidence that HAdV induces KAP1 deSUMOylation to minimize epigenetic gene silencing and to promote SUMO modification of E1B-55K by a so far unknown mechanism.

IMPORTANCE
Here we describe a novel cellular restriction factor for human adenovirus (HAdV) that sheds light on very early modulation processes in viral infection. We reported that chromatin formation and cellular SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling play key roles in HAdV transcriptional regulation. We observed that the cellular chromatin-associated factor and epigenetic reader SPOC1 represses HAdV infection and gene expression. Here, we illustrate the role of the SPOC1-interacting factor KAP1 during productive HAdV growth. KAP1 binds to the viral E1B-55K protein, promoting its SUMO modification, therefore illustrating a crucial step for efficient viral replication. Simultaneously, KAP1 posttranslational modification is dramatically altered during infection. We observed an HAdV-mediated decrease in KAP1 SUMOylation, known to promote chromatin decondensation events. These findings indicate that HAdV induces the loss of KAP1 SUMOylation to minimize epigenetic gene silencing and to promote the SUMO modification of E1B-55K by a so far unknown mechanism.
‘Serious thigh muscle strains’: beware the intramuscular tendon which plays an important role in difficult hamstring and quadriceps muscle strains
Authors: Brukner Peter , Connell David
Published: October 2015

Why do some hamstring and quadriceps strains take much longer to repair than others? Which injuries are more prone to recurrence? Intramuscular tendon injuries have received little attention as an element in ‘muscle strain’. In thigh muscles, such as rectus femoris and biceps femoris, the attached tendon extends for a significant distance within the muscle belly. While the pathology of most muscle injures occurs at a musculotendinous junction, at first glance the athlete appears to report pain within a muscle belly. In addition to the musculotendinous injury being a site of pathology, the intramuscular tendon itself is occasionally injured. These injuries have a variety of appearances on MRIs. There is some evidence that these injuries require a prolonged rehabilitation time and may have higher recurrence rates. Therefore, it is important to recognise the tendon component of a thigh ‘muscle strain’.
Peculiarities of the charge transport in the gas discharge electronic device with irradiated porous zeolite
Authors: Ozturk Sevgul , Koseoglu Kivilcim , Ozer Metin , Salamov Bahtiyar G.
Published: November 2015

The influence of pressure and [Formula: see text]-radiation (1 kGy [Formula: see text] doses) on the charge transport mechanism, charge trapping effects in porous zeolite surfaces and breakdown voltage [Formula: see text] are discussed in atmospheric microplasmas for the first time. This is due to exposure the zeolite cathode (ZC) to [Formula: see text]-radiation resulting in substantial decreases in the [Formula: see text], discharge currents and conductivity due to increase in porosity of the material. Results indicated that the enhancement of plasma light intensity and electron emission from the ZC surface with the release of trapped electrons which are captured by the defect centers following [Formula: see text]-irradiation. The porosity of the ZC and radiation defect centers has significant influence on the charge transport of the microstructure and optical properties of the devices manufactured on its base. Thus, we confirm that the [Formula: see text] is a suitable cathode material for plasma light source, field emission displays, energy storage devices and low power gas discharge electronic devices.
A New Feature Selection Approach to Naive Bayes Text Classifiers
Authors: Zhang Lungan , Jiang Liangxiao , Li Chaoqun
Published: November 2015

Handling text data is a challenge for machine learning because text data is high dimensional in many cases. Feature selection has been approved to be an effective approach to handle high-dimensional data. Feature selection approaches can be broadly divided into two categories: filter approaches and wrapper approaches. Generally, wrapper approaches have superior accuracy compared to filters, but filters always run faster than wrapper approaches. In order to integrate the advantages of filter approaches and wrapper approaches, we propose a gain ratio-based hybrid feature selection approach to naive Bayes text classifiers. The hybrid feature selection approach uses base classifiers to evaluate feature subsets like wrapper approaches, but it need not repeatedly search feature subsets and build base classifiers. The experimental results on large suite of benchmark text datasets show that the proposed hybrid feature selection approach significantly improves the classification accuracy of the original naive Bayes text classifiers while does not incur the high time complexity that characterizes wrapper approaches.
A second-order model for vehicular traffics with local point constraints on the flow
Authors: Andreianov Boris , Donadello Carlotta , Rosini Massimiliano Daniele
Published: November 2015

In this paper we present a second-order model based on the Aw, Rascle, Zhang model (ARZ) for vehicular traffics subject to point constraints on the flow, its motivation being, for instance, the modeling of traffic lights along a road. We first introduce a definition of entropy solution by choosing a family of entropy pairs analogous to the Kruzhkov entropy pairs for scalar conservation laws; then we apply the wave-front tracking method to prove existence and a priori bounds for the entropy solutions of constrained Cauchy problem for ARZ with initial data of bounded variation and piecewise constant constraints. The case of solutions attaining values at the vacuum is considered. We construct an explicit example to describe some qualitative features of the solutions.
On the uniqueness of weak solutions to the Ericksen–Leslie liquid crystal model in ℝ2
Authors: Li Jinkai , Titi Edriss S. , Xin Zhouping
Published: November 2015

This paper concerns the uniqueness of weak solutions to the Cauchy problem to the Ericksen–Leslie system of liquid crystal models in [Formula: see text], with both general Leslie stress tensors and general Oseen–Frank density. It is shown here that such a system admits a unique weak solution provided that the Frank coefficients are close to some positive constant. One of the main ideas of our proof is to perform suitable energy estimates at the level one order lower than the natural basic energy estimates for the Ericksen–Leslie system.
The finite basis property of a certain semigroup of upper triangular matrices over a field
Authors: Chen Yuzhu , Hu Xun , Luo Yanfeng
Published: November 2015

Let [Formula: see text] be the semigroup of all upper triangular [Formula: see text] matrices over a field [Formula: see text] whose main diagonal entries are [Formula: see text]s and/or [Formula: see text]s. Volkov proved that [Formula: see text] is nonfinitely based as both a plain semigroup and an involution semigroup under the reflection with respect to the secondary diagonal. In this paper, we shall prove that [Formula: see text] is finitely based for any field [Formula: see text]. When [Formula: see text], this result partially answers an open question posed by Volkov.
The Influence of Risk Factors in Decision-Making Process for Open Source Software Adoption
Authors: Silic Mario , Back Andrea
Published: November 2015

“Nobody ever got fired for buying IBM,” was a widely used cliché in the 1970s in the corporate IT (information technology) world. Since then, the traditional process of purchasing software has dramatically changed, challenged by the advent of open source software (OSS). Since its inception in the 1980s, OSS has matured, grown, and become one of the important driving forces of the enterprise ecosystem. However, it has also brought important IT security risks that are impacting the OSS IT adoption decision-making process. The recent Heartbleed bug demonstrated the grandeur of the issue. While much of the noise relates to the amplification of perceived risks by the popular mass media coverage, the effect is that many enterprises, mainly for risk reasons, have still chosen not to adopt OSS. We investigated “how do information security related characteristics of OSS affect the risk perception and adoption decision of OSS” by conducting an online survey of 188 IT decision-makers. The proposed Open Source Risk Adoption Model offers novel insights on the importance of the perceived risk antecedents. Our research brings new theoretical contributions, such as understanding the perceived IT security risk (PISR) relationship with adoption intention (AI) in the OSS context, for researchers and important insights for IT information professionals. We have found that IT security risk has a significant role in OSS adoption intention. Our results offer possible future research directions and extend existing theoretical understanding of OSS adoption.
Energy Absorption Mechanisms of Modified Double-Aluminum Layers Under Low-Velocity Impact
Authors: Wang Pengfei , Zhang Xin , Zhang He , Li Xiaotuo , He Peigang , Lu Guoxing , Yu T. X. , Yang Jinglei
Published: November 2015

Laminated multiple metal or alloy sheets have been widely used in protective structures. However, energy absorption mechanism remains unclear for those laminates with different interface and surface conditions under low-velocity impact. This study investigates the effect of interface and surface modified double aluminum sheets under drop-weight loading. The experimental results showed that epoxy-bonded double sheets did not dissipate more energy than free-contact sample. The simulation results agree well with the experimental data at low cohesive stress of the epoxy adhesive, and friction plays an important role in absorbing impact energy for free-contact sample. However, at high interface cohesive stress as simulated, epoxy-bonded samples absorb more energy than free-contact ones. Further experiments indicated that sample with grease spread front surface is more sensitive in improving energy absorption than sample with grease applied in between two layers. These results are important reference for designing laminated composites to improve impact resistance.
Program-Invariant Checking for Soft-Error Detection using Reconfigurable Hardware
Authors: Park Joonseok , Diniz Pedro C.
Published: November 2015

There is an increasing concern about transient errors in deep submicron processor architectures. Software-only error detection approaches that exploit program invariants for silent error detection incur large execution overheads and are unreliable as state can be corrupted after invariant checkpoints. In this article, we explore the use of configurable hardware structures for the continuous evaluation of high-level program invariants at the assembly level. We evaluate the resource requirements and performance of the proposed predicate-evaluation hardware structures when integrated with a 32-bit MIPS soft core on a contemporary reconfigurable hardware device. The results, for a small set of kernel codes, reveal that these hardware structures require a very small number of hardware resources with negligible impact on the processor core that they are integrated in. Moreover, the amount of resources is fairly insensitive to the complexity of the invariants, thus making the proposed structures an attractive alternative to software-only predicate checking.
BetrFS
Authors: Jannen William , Yuan Jun , Zhan Yang , Akshintala Amogh , Esmet John , Jiao Yizheng , Mittal Ankur , Pandey Prashant , Reddy Phaneendra , Walsh Leif , Bender Michael A. , Farach-Colton Martin , Johnson Rob , Kuszmaul Bradley C. , Porter Donald E.
Published: November 2015

The

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-tree File System

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trFS (pronounced “better eff ess”), is the first in-kernel file system to use a write-optimized data structure (WODS). WODS are promising building blocks for storage systems because they support both microwrites and large scans efficiently. Previous WODS-based file systems have shown promise but have been hampered in several ways, which B
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trFS mitigates or eliminates altogether. For example, previous WODS-based file systems were implemented in user space using FUSE, which superimposes many reads on a write-intensive workload, reducing the effectiveness of the WODS. This article also contributes several techniques for exploiting write-optimization within existing kernel infrastructure. B
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trFS dramatically improves performance of certain types of large scans, such as recursive directory traversals, as well as performance of arbitrary microdata operations, such as file creates, metadata updates, and small writes to files. B
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trFS can make small, random updates within a large file 2 orders of magnitude faster than other local file systems. B
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trFS is an ongoing prototype effort and requires additional data-structure tuning to match current general-purpose file systems on some operations, including deletes, directory renames, and large sequential writes. Nonetheless, many applications realize significant performance improvements on B
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trFS. For instance, an in-place rsync of the Linux kernel source sees roughly 1.6--22 × speedup over commodity file systems.
How Close are We to Realizing a Pragmatic VANET Solution? A Meta-Survey
Authors: Saini Mukesh , Alelaiwi Abdulhameed , Saddik Abdulmotaleb El
Published: November 2015

Vehicular Ad-hoc Networks (VANETs) are seen as the key enabling technology of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS). In addition to safety, VANETs also provide a cost-effective platform for numerous comfort and entertainment applications. A pragmatic solution of VANETs requires synergistic efforts in multidisciplinary areas of communication standards, routings, security and trust. Furthermore, a realistic VANET simulator is required for performance evaluation. There have been many research efforts in these areas, and consequently, a number of surveys have been published on various aspects. In this article, we first explain the key characteristics of VANETs, then provide a meta-survey of research works. We take a tutorial approach to introducing VANETs and gradually discuss intricate details. Extensive listings of existing surveys and research projects have been provided to assess development efforts. The article is useful for researchers to look at the big picture and channel their efforts in an effective way.
Investigating the Determinants of Starting Salary of IT Graduates
Authors: Ge Chunmian , Kankanhalli Atreyi , Huang Ke-Wei
Published: November 2015

The starting salary of a fresh graduate is considered a potential indicator of career advancement. Yet few studies have examined the determinants of starting salaries of information technology (IT) graduates. Further, existing studies have focused on how demographics affect either the salary or the kind of job the graduate enters into, but rarely both. In this paper, we explore both and examine if entry into an IT job mediates the effects of demographics on the starting salaries of fresh IT graduates. Our model is tested using data from annual surveys of undergraduate students majoring in IT at a large public university in Singapore over a 5-year period. We find that gender and foreigner status influence both starting salary and fresh graduates' entry into an IT vs. non IT job. Further, the effect of gender on the starting salaries of IT graduates is partially mediated by their entry into an IT job. In other words, part of the reason for a gender difference in starting salary could be attributed to female IT majors being less likely to enter IT jobs upon graduation than their male counterparts. On the other hand, foreign IT graduates are more likely to enter IT jobs, yet their starting salaries are found to be lower than local graduates. The implications of the results for research and practice are discussed.
The Acceptance and Use of Innovative Technology
Authors: Wakefield Robin L.
Published: November 2015

This study examines the co-occurrence of positive and negative affective technology evaluations and the implications of each on technology use. Stimulus-Organism-Response Theory was used to construct the research model to explore the relationships between integral affect and a technology;s performance and outcome expectancies. The responses of 358 adult technology users regarding an innovative technology provide empirical support for the research model. The SEM results indicate that the evaluation of a technology's features result in both positive and negative affective responses that directly influence use intentions. While the co-occurrence of positive and negative emotion arises from the evaluation of technology usefulness, negative feelings tend to dominate technology performance evaluations. From a practical standpoint, understanding how users' affect-based processes relate with instrumental appraisals has implications for the management of user perceptions that would encourage technology adoption and use. Theoretically, this study provides support for the independence of positive and negative user affect suggesting that positive technology attributions may not arise at the expense of the negative.