bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating the parameter sensitivity of acoustic mode quantities for an idealized shelf-slope front
Authors: DeCourcy Brendan J. , Lin Ying-Tsong , Siegmann William L.
Published: February 2018

The acoustic modes of an idealized three-dimensional model for a curved shelf-slope ocean front [Lin and Lynch, J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 131, EL1–EL7 (2012)] is examined analytically and numerically. The goal is to quantify the influence of environmental and acoustic parameters on acoustic field metrics. This goal is achieved by using conserved quantities of the model, including the dispersion relation and a conservation of mode number. Analytic expressions for the horizontal wave numbers can be extracted by asymptotic approximations and perturbations, leading to accurate and convenient approximations for their parameter dependence. These equations provide the dependence on model parameter changes of both the real horizontal wavenumbers, leading to modal phase speeds and other metrics, and the imaginary parts, leading to modal attenuation coefficients. Further approximations for small parameter changes of these equations characterize the parameter sensitivities and produce assessments of environmental and acoustic influences.
Examining the Feasibility of Supine-to-Stand as a Measure of Functional Motor Competence
Authors: Nesbitt Danielle , Molina Sergio , Sacko Ryan , Robinson Leah E. , Brian Ali , Stodden David
Published: February 2018

A person’s ability to rise from the floor to a standing position is seen as a precursor for establishing and maintaining bipedal independence. It also is an important primer for the development of other fundamental movement skills and is associated with functional capacity in later life. Thus, the potential importance of developing this movement capability early in life and understanding how it may relate to global function (i.e., motor competence [MC]) across the lifespan may be underestimated. Therefore, this study examined the validity of supine-to-stand test (STS) as a developmental measure of functional MC across childhood into young adulthood using a pre-longitudinal screen approach and examining associations between movement components. STS time also provided a secondary measure of developmental validity in addition to an examination of the concurrent validity of STS against developmentally valid measures of MC (i.e., throwing, kicking, hopping, and standing long jump) in these age groups. Overall, results indicated that cross-sectional data “curves” for the STS components generally fit Roberton’s hypothetical model curves. STS time demonstrated weak to moderate (r = −.28 to −.64) correlations to MC product measures across all age groups indicating that STS time can be considered a valid and reliable measure of MC across childhood into young adulthood.
Drug Susceptibility Profiling and Genetic Determinants of Drug Resistance in Mycobacterium kansasii
Authors: Bakuła Zofia , Modrzejewska Magdalena , Pennings Lian , Proboszcz Małgorzata , Safianowska Aleksandra , Bielecki Jacek , van Ingen Jakko , Jagielski Tomasz
Published: February 2018

Very few studies have examined drug susceptibility of
Mycobacterium kansasii
, and they involve a limited number of strains. The purpose of this study was to determine drug susceptibility profiles of
M. kansasii
isolates representing a spectrum of species genotypes (subtypes) with two different methodologies, i.e., broth microdilution and Etest assays. To confirm drug resistance, drug target genes were sequenced. A collection of 85
M. kansasii
isolates, including representatives of eight different subtypes (I to VI, I/II, and IIB) from eight countries, was used. Drug susceptibility against 13 and 8 antimycobacterial agents was tested by using broth microdilution and Etest, respectively. For drug-resistant or high-MIC isolates, eight structural genes (
rrl
,
katG
,
inhA
,
embB
,
rrs
,
rpsL
,
gyrA
, and
gyrB
) and one regulatory region (
embCA
) were PCR amplified and sequenced in the search for resistance-associated mutations. All isolates tested were susceptible to rifampin (RIF), amikacin (AMK), co-trimoxazole (SXT), rifabutin (RFB), moxifloxacin (MXF), and linezolid (LZD) according to the microdilution method. Resistance to ethambutol (EMB), ciprofloxacin (CIP), and clarithromycin (CLR) was found in 83 (97.7%), 17 (20%), and 1 (1.2%) isolate, respectively. The calculated concordance between the Etest and dilution method was 22.6% for AMK, 4.8% for streptomycin (STR), 3.2% for CLR, and 1.6% for RIF. For EMB, INH, and SXT, not even a single MIC value determined by one method equaled that by the second method. The only mutations disclosed were A2266C transversion at the
rrl
gene (CLR-resistant strain) and A128G transition at the
rpsL
gene (strain with STR MIC of >64 mg/liter). In conclusion, eight drugs, including RIF, CLR, AMK, SXT, RFB, MXF, LZD, and ethionamide (ETO), showed high
in vitro
activity against
M. kansasii
isolates. Discrepancies of the results between the reference microdilution method and Etest preclude the use of the latter for drug susceptibility determination in
M. kansasii
. Drug resistance in
M. kansasii
may have different genetic determinants than resistance to the same drugs in
M. tuberculosis
.
High Genetic Plasticity in Multidrug-Resistant Sequence Type 3-IncHI2 Plasmids Revealed by Sequence Comparison and Phylogenetic Analysis
Authors: Fang Liang-Xing , Li Xing-Ping , Deng Guo-Hui , Li Shu-Min , Yang Run-Shi , Wu Zuo-Wei , Liao Xiao-Ping , Sun Jian , Liu Ya-Hong
Published: February 2018

We report a novel fusion plasmid, pP2-3T, cointegrating sequence type 3 (ST3)-IncHI2 with an IncFII plasmid backbone mediating multidrug resistance (MDR) and virulence. Phylogenetic analysis and comparative genomics revealed that pP2-3T and other MDR ST3-IncHI2 plasmids clustered together, representing a unique IncHI2 lineage that exhibited high conservation in backbones of plasmids but possessed highly genetic plasticity in various regions by acquiring numerous antibiotic resistance genes and fusing with other plasmids. Surveillance studies should be performed to monitor multiresistance IncHI2 plasmids among
Enterobacteriaceae
.
Establishment and Validation of Galleria mellonella as a Novel Model Organism To Study Mycobacterium abscessus Infection, Pathogenesis, and Treatment
Authors: Meir Michal , Grosfeld Tatyana , Barkan Daniel
Published: February 2018

Treatment of
Mycobacterium abscessus
infections is extremely challenging due to its intrinsic resistance to most antibiotics, and research of pathogenesis is limited due to a lack of a practical
in vivo
model of infection. The objective of this study was to establish a simple
in vivo
model for
M. abscessus
infection, virulence, and drug testing in
Galleria mellonella
larvae. We inoculated larvae with
M. abscessus
bacteria and assessed histopathology, CFU count, and mortality with and without antibiotic treatment. We also constructed a luminescent, recombinant
M. abscessus
mutant, mDB158, and imaged infected larvae using the IVIS
in vivo
imaging system.
M. abscessus
proliferated and induced granuloma-like responses in infected larvae, leading to larval mortality. The
G. mellonella
model was further validated successfully by demonstration of the expected favorable antimicrobial effect of treatment with meropenem and the superiority of combination treatment (meropenem and tigecycline) over that with single agents. We then used IVIS imaging of larvae infected with luminescent
M. abscessus
, allowing live real-time assessment of bacterial load. We used this method to compare the antimicrobial effects of various antibiotics (meropenem, amikacin, linezolid, levofloxacin, etc.) on bacterial proliferation and larval survival. Meropenem and amikacin had the most favorable effects, correlating well with common clinical practice guidelines. These findings suggest
G. mellonella
to be an excellent
in vivo
model for research of
M. abscessus
infection, pathogenesis, and treatment. Luminescent
M. abscessus
and IVIS imaging further facilitates this model. Results obtained in this model clearly substantiated common clinical practice, thus validating the model as a predictor of treatment efficacy and outcome.
Comparative Genomics Shows That Mycobacterium ulcerans Migration and Expansion Preceded the Rise of Buruli Ulcer in Southeastern Australia
Authors: Buultjens Andrew H. , Vandelannoote Koen , Meehan Conor J. , Eddyani Miriam , de Jong Bouke C. , Fyfe Janet A. M. , Globan Maria , Tobias Nicholas J. , Porter Jessica L. , Tomita Takehiro , Tay Ee Laine , Seemann Torsten , Howden Benjamin P. , Johnson Paul D. R. , Stinear Timothy P.
Published: February 2018

Since 2000, cases of the neglected tropical disease Buruli ulcer, caused by infection with
Mycobacterium ulcerans
, have increased 100-fold around Melbourne (population 4.4 million), the capital of Victoria, in temperate southeastern Australia. The reasons for this increase are unclear. Here, we used whole-genome sequence comparisons of 178
M. ulcerans
isolates obtained primarily from human clinical specimens, spanning 70 years, to model the population dynamics of this pathogen from this region. Using phylogeographic and advanced Bayesian phylogenetic approaches, we found that there has been a migration of the pathogen from the east end of the state, beginning in the 1980s, 300 km west to the major human population center around Melbourne. This move was then followed by a significant increase in
M. ulcerans
population size. These analyses inform our thinking around Buruli ulcer transmission and control, indicating that
M. ulcerans
is introduced to a new environment and then expands, rather than it being from the awakening of a quiescent pathogen reservoir.

IMPORTANCE
Buruli ulcer is a destructive skin and soft tissue infection caused by
Mycobacterium ulcerans
and is characterized by progressive skin ulceration, which can lead to permanent disfigurement and long-term disability. Despite the majority of disease burden occurring in regions of West and central Africa, Buruli ulcer is also becoming increasingly common in southeastern Australia. Major impediments to controlling disease spread are incomplete understandings of the environmental reservoirs and modes of transmission of
M. ulcerans
. The significance of our research is that we used genomics to assess the population structure of this pathogen at the Australian continental scale. We have then reconstructed a historical bacterial spread and modeled demographic dynamics to reveal bacterial population expansion across southeastern Australia. These findings provide explanations for the observed epidemiological trends with Buruli ulcer and suggest possible management to control disease spread.
Neutrophils from Both Susceptible and Resistant Mice Efficiently Kill Opsonized Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Pitts Michelle G. , Combs Travis A. , D'Orazio Sarah E. F.
Published: February 2018

Inbred mouse strains differ in their susceptibility to infection with the facultative intracellular bacteriumListeria monocytogenes, largely due to delayed or deficient innate immune responses. Previous antibody depletion studies suggested that neutrophils (polymorphonuclear leukocytes [PMN]) were particularly important for clearance in the liver, but the ability of PMN from susceptible and resistant mice to directly killL. monocytogeneshas not been examined. In this study, we showed that PMN infiltrated the livers of BALB/c/By/J (BALB/c) and C57BL/6 (B6) mice in similar numbers and that both cell types readily migrated toward leukotriene B4 in anin vitrochemotaxis assay. However, CFU burdens in the liver were significantly higher in BALB/c mice than in other strains, suggesting that PMN in the BALB/c liver might not be able to clearL. monocytogenesas efficiently as B6 PMN. Unprimed PMN harvested from either BALB/c or B6 bone marrow killedL. monocytogenesdirectlyex vivo, and pretreatment with autologous serum significantly enhanced killing efficiency for both.L. monocytogeneswere internalized within 10 min and rapidly triggered intracellular production of reactive oxygen species in a dose-dependent manner. However, PMN from gp91phox-deficient mice also readily killedL. monocytogenes, which suggested that nonoxidative killing mechanisms may be sufficient for bacterial clearance. Together, these results indicate that there is not an intrinsic defect in the ability of PMN from susceptible BALB/c mice to killL. monocytogenesand further suggest that if PMN function is impaired in BALB/c mice, it is likely due to locally produced modulating factors present in the liver during infection.
Dysbiosis of Inferior Turbinate Microbiota Is Associated with High Total IgE Levels in Patients with Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Hyun Dong-Wook , Min Hyun Jin , Kim Min-Soo , Whon Tae Woong , Shin Na-Ri , Kim Pil Soo , Kim Hyun Sik , Lee June Young , Kang Woorim , Choi Augustine M. K. , Yoon Joo-Heon , Bae Jin-Woo
Published: February 2018

Abnormalities in the human microbiota are associated with the etiology of allergic diseases. Although disease site-specific microbiota may be associated with disease pathophysiology, the role of the nasal microbiota is unclear. We sought to characterize the microbiota of the site of allergic rhinitis, the inferior turbinate, in subjects with allergic rhinitis (
n
= 20) and healthy controls (
n
= 12) and to examine the relationship of mucosal microbiota with disease occurrence, sensitized allergen number, and allergen-specific and total IgE levels. Microbial dysbiosis correlated significantly with total IgE levels representing combined allergic responses but not with disease occurrence, the number of sensitized allergens, or house dust mite allergen-specific IgE levels. Compared to the populations in individuals with low total IgE levels (group IgE
low
), low microbial biodiversity with a high relative abundance of
Firmicutes
phylum (
Staphylococcus aureus
) and a low relative abundance of
Actinobacteria
phylum (
Propionibacterium acnes
) was observed in individuals with high total serum IgE levels (group IgE
high
). Phylogeny-based microbial functional potential predicted by the 16S rRNA gene indicated an increase in signal transduction-related genes and a decrease in energy metabolism-related genes in group IgE
high
as shown in the microbial features with atopic and/or inflammatory diseases. Thus, dysbiosis of the inferior turbinate mucosa microbiota, particularly an increase in
S. aureus
and a decrease in
P. acnes
, is linked to high total IgE levels in allergic rhinitis, suggesting that inferior turbinate microbiota may be affected by accumulated allergic responses against sensitized allergens and that site-specific microbial alterations play a potential role in disease pathophysiology.
Persistent Pandemic Lineages of Uropathogenic Escherichia coli in a College Community from 1999 to 2017
Authors: Yamaji Reina , Rubin Julia , Thys Erika , Friedman Cindy R. , Riley Lee W.
Published: February 2018

The incidence of drug-resistant community-acquired urinary tract infections (CA-UTI) continues to increase worldwide. In 1999 to 2000, a single lineage of uropathogenic
Escherichia coli
(UPEC) sequence type 69 (ST69) caused 51% of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole-resistant UTI in a Northern California university community. We compared the clonal distributions of UPEC and its impact on antimicrobial resistance prevalence in the same community during two periods separated by 17 years. We analyzed
E. coli
isolates from urine samples from patients with symptoms of UTI who visited a health service between September 2016 and May 2017 and compared them to UPEC isolates collected similarly between October 1999 and March 2000. Isolates were tested for antimicrobial drug susceptibility and genotyped by multilocus sequence typing. In 1999 to 2000, strains belonging to ST95, ST127, ST73, ST69, ST131, and ST10 caused 125 (56%) of 225 UTI cases, while the same STs caused 148 (64%) of 233 UTI cases in 2016 to 2017. The frequencies of ampicillin resistance and ciprofloxacin resistance rose from 24.4% to 41.6% (
P
< 0.001) and from 0.9% to 5.1% (
P
< 0.003), respectively. The six STs accounted for 78.6% and 72.7% of these increases, respectively. Prevalence of drug-resistant UTI in this community appears to be largely influenced by a small set of dominant UPEC STs circulating in the same community 17 years apart. Further research to determine the origin and reasons for persistence of these dominant genotypes is necessary to combat antimicrobial-resistant CA-UTI.
C-Terminal Farnesylation of UCH-L1 Plays a Role in Transport of Epstein-Barr Virus Primary Oncoprotein LMP1 to Exosomes
Authors: Kobayashi E. , Aga M. , Kondo S. , Whitehurst C. , Yoshizaki T. , Pagano J. S. , Shackelford J.
Published: February 2018

Exosomes are small vesicles that cells secrete into the extracellular space, and there is increasing evidence that they have pivotal roles in cell-to-cell communication in malignancy. It is reported also that EBV-associated malignant cells, including those derived from nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and B-cell lymphoma, secrete exosomes. These EBV-related exosomes may contain viral products such as latent membrane protein 1 (LMP1) and may contribute to cancer progression. The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanism by which those viral products are loaded in exosomes. In this study, we show for the first time that ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase-L1 (UCH-L1) and its C-terminal farnesylation, a posttranslational lipid modification, contribute to this mechanism. Our results also suggest that inhibition of UCH-L1 farnesylation is a potential therapeutic target against cancer metastasis and invasion.
The epidemiology of childhood blindness and severe visual impairment in Indonesia
Authors: Muhit Mohammad , Karim Tasneem , Islam Johurul , Hardianto Denny , Muhiddin Habibah Setyawati , Purwanta Setia A , Suhardjo Suhardjo , Widyandana Doni , Khandaker Gulam
Published: February 2018

Background

The magnitude of blindness among children in Indonesia is unknown. In this study, we aimed to define the magnitude and aetiology of childhood blindness in two parts of Indonesia.

Method

Children aged 0–15 years, identified through key informant method and from special schools and community-based rehabilitation programme in Sumba and Yogyakarta, were assessed following WHO protocol and definitions for ophthalmological assessment and classification of visual impairment and blindness among children.

Results

Out of 195 children assessed, 113 had blindness/severe visual impairment (BL/SVI), 48 had visual impairment (VI) and 34 had no VI. 43.4% children with BL/SVI were female.

The main anatomical site of BL/SVI was lens (n=35, 31.0%), followed by retina (n=13, 11.5%) and cornea (n=9, 8.0%). Among the known aetiologies, childhood factors predominated (n=14, 12.4%), followed by hereditary diseases (n=12, 10.6%) where parental consanguinity was found among 33.3% (n=4) of them. Overall, 77.8% (n=88) had avoidable causes of BL/SVI: 69.0% (n=78) treatable and 8.8% (n=10) preventable causes.

The estimated prevalence of BL/SVI was 0.25 (95% CI 0.19 to 0.32) and 0.23 (95% CI 0.18 to 0.29) per 1000 children in Sumba and Yogyakarta, respectively. The estimated prevalence of cataract was 0.07 per 1000 children (95% CI 0.04 to 0.12) in Sumba and 0.05 per 1000 children (95% CI 0.03 to 0.09) in Yogyakarta. Based on our conservative estimates, there are 17 241 children with BL/SVI in Indonesia; 4270 are blind due to cataract.

Conclusion

The magnitude of childhood BL/SVI in Sumba and Yogyakarta is high. Our study suggests that a large proportion of childhood BL/SVI in Indonesia is avoidable.
Search for PeVatrons at the Galactic Center using a radio air-shower array at the South Pole
Authors: Balagopal V. A. , Haungs A. , Huege T. , Schröder F. G.
Published: February 2018

The South Pole, which hosts the IceCube Neutrino Observatory, has a complete and around-the-clock exposure to the Galactic Center. Hence, it is an ideal location to search for gamma rays of PeV energy coming from the Galactic Center. However, it is hard to detect air showers initiated by these gamma rays using cosmic-ray particle detectors due to the low elevation of the Galactic Center. The use of antennas to measure the radio footprint of these air showers will help in this case, and would allow for a 24/7 operation time. So far, only air showers with energies well above $$10^{16}$$

10
16

eV have been detected with the radio technique. Thus, the energy threshold has to be lowered for the detection of gamma-ray showers of PeV energy. This can be achieved by optimizing the frequency band in order to obtain a higher level of signal-to-noise ratio. With such an approach, PeV gamma-ray showers with high inclination can be measured at the South Pole.
Discrete Temporal Constraint Satisfaction Problems
Authors: Bodirsky Manuel , Martin Barnaby , Mottet Antoine
Published: February 2018

A
discrete temporal constraint satisfaction problem
is a constraint satisfaction problem (CSP) over the set of integers whose constraint language consists of relations that are first-order definable over the order of the integers. We prove that every discrete temporal CSP is in P or NP-complete, unless it can be formulated as a finite domain CSP, in which case the computational complexity is not known in general.
Ranking Renewable and Fossil Fuels on Global Warming Potential Using Respiratory Quotient Concept
Authors: Annamalai Kalyan , Thanapal Siva Sankar , Ranjan Devesh
Published: February 2018

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is one of the greenhouse gases which cause global warming. The amount of fossil fuels consumed to meet the demands in the areas of power and transportation is projected to increase in the upcoming years. Depending on carbon content, each power plant fuel has its own potential to produce carbon dioxide. Similarly, the humans consume food containing carbohydrates (CH), fat, and protein which emit CO2 due to metabolism. The biology literature uses respiratory quotient (RQ), defined as the ratio of CO2 moles exhausted per mole of O2 consumed within the body, to estimate CO2 loading in the blood stream and CO2 in nasal exhaust. Here, we apply that principle in the field of combustion to relate the RQ to CO2 emitted in tons per GJ of energy released when a fuel is combusted. The RQ value of a fuel can be determined either from fuel chemical formulae (from ultimate analyses for most liquid and solid fuels of known composition) or from exhaust gas analyses. RQ ranges from 0.5 for methane (CH4) to 1 for pure carbon. Based on the results obtained, the lesser the value of “RQ” of a fuel, the lower its global warming potential. This methodology can be further extended for an “online instantaneous measurement of CO2” in automobiles based on actual fuel use irrespective of fuel composition.
Hermite-Hadamard Type Integral Inequalities for Functions Whose Second-Order Mixed Derivatives Are Coordinated(s,m)-P-Convex
Authors: Bai Yu-Mei , Wu Shan-He , Wu Ying
Published: February 2018

We establish some new Hermite-Hadamard type integral inequalities for functions whose second-order mixed derivatives are coordinated(s,m)-P-convex. An expression form of Hermite-Hadamard type integral inequalities via the beta function and the hypergeometric function is also presented. Our results provide a significant complement to the work of Wu et al. involving the Hermite-Hadamard type inequalities for coordinated(s,m)-P-convex functions in an earlier article.
Seismic Performance of Lightweight Concrete Structures
Authors: Vandanapu Swamy Nadh , Krishnamurthy Muthumani
Published: February 2018

Concrete structures are prone to earthquake due to mass of the structures. The primary use of structural lightweight concrete (SLWC) is to reduce the dead load of a concrete structure, which allows the structural designer to reduce the size of the structural members like beam, column, and footings which results in reduction of earthquake forces on the structure. This paper attempts to predict the seismic response of a six‐storied reinforced concrete frame with the use of lightweight concrete. A well‐designed six‐storey example is taken for study. The structure is modelled with standard software, and analysis is carried out with normal weight and lightweight concrete. Bending moments and shear forces are considered for both NWC and LWC, and it is observed that bending moments and shear forces are reduced to 15 and 20 percent, respectively, in LWC. The density difference observed was 28% lower when compared NWC to LWC. Assuming that the section and reinforcements are not revised due to use of LWC, one can expect large margin over and above MCE (maximum considered earthquake; IS 1893‐2016), which is a desirable seismic resistance feature in important structures.
Effects of Cholecalciferol on Key Components of Vitamin D-Endo/Para/Autocrine System in Experimental Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Mazanova Anna , Shymanskyi Ihor , Lisakovska Olha , Hajiyeva Lala , Komisarenko Yulia , Veliky Mykola
Published: February 2018

Objectives.Recent prospective studies have found the associations between type 1 diabetes (T1D) and vitamin D deficiency. We investigated the role of vitamin D in the regulation of 25OHD-1α-hydroxylase (CYP27B1) and VDR expression in different tissues of T1D rats.Design.T1D was induced in male Wistar rats by streptozotocin (55 mg/k b.w.). After 2 weeks of T1D, the animals were treated orally with or without vitamin D3(cholecalciferol; 100 IU/rat, 30 days).Methods.Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) was detected by ELISA. CYP27A1, CYP2R1, CYP27B1, and VDR were assayed by RT-qPCR and Western blotting or visualized by immunofluorescence staining.Results.We demonstrated that T1D led to a decrease in blood 25OHD, which is probably due to the established downregulation of CYP27A1 and CYP2R1 expression. Vitamin D deficiency was accompanied by elevated synthesis of renal CYP27B1 and VDR. Conversely, CYP27B1 and VDR expression decreased in the liver, bone tissue, and bone marrow. Cholecalciferol administration countered the impairments of the vitamin D-endo/para/autocrine system in the kidneys and extrarenal tissues of diabetic rats.Conclusions.T1D-induced vitamin D deficiency is associated with impairments of renal and extrarenal CYP27B1 and VDR expression. Cholecalciferol can be effective in the amelioration of diabetes-associated abnormalities in the vitamin D-endo/para/autocrine system.
Effects of Melatonin on Intestinal Microbiota and Oxidative Stress in Colitis Mice
Authors: Zhu Dan , Ma Yong , Ding Sujuan , Jiang Hongmei , Fang Jun
Published: February 2018

This study investigated the antioxidant capacity and intestinal bacteria community in a mouse model of DSS-induced colitis. Twenty mice were randomly assigned to two treatments: mice with colitis induced by 5% DSS (DSS group) and mice with colitis induced by 5% DSS that also received melatonin treatment (MEL group). The DSS group showed significantly less antioxidant capability than the MEL group, but the two groups did not differ significantly in terms of diversity index (Shannon and Simpson), bacterial culture abundance (Chao1 and ACE), and coverage (Good’s coverage estimator). Bacteroidetes were the most abundant phylum in the DSS group (58.93%), followed by Firmicutes with 31.46% and Proteobacteria with 7.97%. In contrast, Firmicutes were the most abundant in the MEL group (49.48%), followed by Bacteroidetes with 41.63% and Proteobacteria with 7.50%. The results support the use of melatonin for prevention of intestinal bowel disease due to its modulatory effect on antioxidant capability and microbiota in mice with colitis. Melatonin was demonstrated to improve the oxidative stress resistance of mice with colitis and regulate the intestinal microbial flora, thus improving intestinal health.
Clark-Ocone Formula for Generalized Functionals of Discrete-Time Normal Noises
Authors: Wang Caishi , Lin Shuai , Huang Ailing
Published: February 2018

The Clark-Ocone formula in the theory of discrete-time chaotic calculus holds only for square integrable functionals of discrete-time normal noises. In this paper, we aim at extending this formula to generalized functionals of discrete-time normal noises. Let Z be a discrete-time normal noise that has the chaotic representation property. We first prove a result concerning the regularity of generalized functionals of Z. Then, we use the Fock transform to define some fundamental operators on generalized functionals of Z and apply the abovementioned regularity result to prove the continuity of these operators. Finally, we establish the Clark-Ocone formula for generalized functionals of Z and show its application results, which include the covariant identity result and the variant upper bound result for generalized functionals of Z.
How Slight Solidification Rate Variations within Cast Plate Affect Mechanical Response: A Study on As‐Cast A356 Alloy with Cu Additions
Authors: Di Giovanni Maria Teresa , Cerri Emanuela , Saito Takeshi , Akhtar Shahid , Åsholt Petter , Li Yanjun , Di Sabatino Marisa
Published: February 2018

The present work investigates a narrow range of secondary dendrite arm spacing (SDAS), in an as‐cast A356 alloy with and without copper (Cu) additions. Cu was added to the base A356 alloy melt to reach the target concentration of 0.5 and 1 wt.%. Samples were selected from 3 different positions within the cast plate, offering 30, 35, and 40 μm SDAS variants. Tensile curves revealed a strong influence between the specimen cutting position and strength, with a pronounced effect in the Cu‐containing alloys. Hardness measurements did not confirm the tensile response; hence, to understand the phenomenon, microstructural features have been investigated in detail. Eutectic silicon (Si) particle equivalent diameter (ED) size decreased from the top (T) to the bottom (B) position of the cast. Eutectic Si particle surface area (A%) was found to be denser at the B as compared to the T and simultaneously in the Cu‐containing alloy as compared to the Cu‐free reference alloy. Backscattered electron (BSE) images were employed to investigate the nature of the Cu‐rich intermetallic phases. In conclusion, electrical conductivity measurements were performed to confirm the trends observed.
Host-Parasite Interactions in Individuals with Type 1 and 2 Diabetes Result in Higher Frequency ofAscaris lumbricoidesandGiardia lambliain Type 2 Diabetic Individuals
Authors: Machado Eleuza Rodrigues , Matos Núbia Oliveira , Rezende Sinione Morais , Carlos Daniela , Silva Thauana Cristina , Rodrigues Leônia , Almeida Maria Jarlene Rodrigues , de Oliveira Maria Regina Fernandes , Muniz-Junqueira Maria Imaculada , Gurgel-Gonçalves Rodrigo
Published: February 2018

Host-parasite interactions in diabetic patients might influence diabetes complications and intestinal parasitosis. The aim was to investigate the occurrence of enteroparasites in individuals with diabetes types 1 and 2. A descriptive study was designed to estimate frequencies of parasites and to compare them in individuals with diabetes types 1 and 2 from two Health Centers and one hospital in the Federal District of Brazil. Patients were allocated to the study by convenience. Three fecal samples of 156 diabetic individuals (120 type 1 and 36 type 2) were analyzed using two parasitological methods. Enteroparasites or commensals frequency in diabetics was 64%. Diabetics infected with up to six species of intestinal parasites or commensals were found. Frequencies ofAscaris lumbricoidesandGiardia lambliawere higher in individuals with type 2 diabetes. The lower frequency ofA. lumbricoidesfound in type 1 diabetes may be related to a strong Th2 response to parasites. Autoimmune response developed in type 1 diabetic individuals characterized by the production of Th1 cytokines could explain low frequency ofG. lamblia. High frequency of parasites found in type 2 diabetes emphasizes the importance of periodic parasitological examinations in these individuals.
[Retracted] Structural and Electrical Properties of Graphene Oxide‐Doped PVA/PVP Blend Nanocomposite Polymer Films
Authors: Basha S. K. Shahenoor , Kumar K. Vijay , Sundari G. Sunita , Rao M. C.
Published: February 2018

Graphene oxide (GO) nanoparticles were incorporated in PVA/PVP blend polymers for the preparation of nanocomposite polymer films by the solution cast technique. XRD, FTIR, DSC, SEM, and UV‐visible studies were performed on the prepared nanocomposite polymer films. XRD revealed the amorphous nature of the prepared films. Thermal analysis of the nanocomposite polymer films was analyzed by DSC. SEM revealed the morphological features and the degree of roughness of the samples. DC conductivity studies were under taken on the samples, and the conductivity was found to be 6.13 × 10−4 S·cm−1 for the polymer film prepared at room temperature. A solid‐state battery has been fabricated with the chemical composition of Mg+/(PVA/PVP  :  GO)/(I2 + C + electrolyte), and its cell parameters like power density and current density were calculated.
Visual and Refractive Outcomes following Bilateral Implantation of Extended Range of Vision Intraocular Lens with Micromonovision
Authors: Ganesh Sri , Brar Sheetal , Pawar Archana , Relekar Kirti J.
Published: February 2018

Purpose. To evaluate the outcomes following bilateral ERV intraocular lens implantation with micromonovision.Methods. 25 subjects underwent bilateral Tecnis Symfony IOL implantation with micromonovision. The dominant eye was targeted for emmetropia and the nondominant eye for myopia of −0.75 D. Uncorrected and corrected distance (UDVA, CDVA), intermediate (UIVA, CIVA), and near visual acuity (UNVA, DCNVA); reading performance; defocus curve; and contrast sensitivity were studied. Follow-ups were conducted at 1 week and 1 and 6 months postoperatively.Results. At 6 months postoperatively, the mean binocular UDVA, CDVA, UNVA, and DCNVA were −0.036 ± 0.09, −0.108 ± 0.07, 0.152 ± 0.11, and 0.216 ± 0.10 logMAR, respectively. Binocular UIVA and DCIVA were 0.048 ± 0.09 and 0.104 ± 0.08 logMAR, respectively, at 60 cm and −0.044 ± 0.09 and 0.012 ± 0.09 logMAR, respectively, at 80 cm. All patients had ≥0.2 logMAR UDVA and UNVA. Reading acuity and reading speeds showed improvement over time. Between defocus range of −2.50 and +1.00 D, the visual acuity remained ≥0.2 logMAR. Contrast sensitivity scores were within the normal range. 4 patients used reading glasses for very fine print.Conclusion. Bilateral ERV IOL implantation leads to excellent outcomes for far and intermediate vision, satisfactory outcomes for near vision, and good tolerance to micromonovision at the end of the 6 months. This trial is registered withCTRI/2015/10/006246.
Secure and DoS‐Resilient Fragment Authentication in CCN‐Based Vehicular Networks
Authors: Hyun Sangwon , Kim Hyoungshick
Published: February 2018

Content‐Centric Networking (CCN) is considered as a promising alternative to traditional IP‐based networking for vehicle‐to‐everything communication environments. In general, CCN packets must be fragmented and reassembled based on the Maximum Transmission Unit (MTU) size of the content delivery path. It is thus challenging to securely protect fragmented packets against attackers who intentionally inject malicious fragments to disrupt normal services on CCN‐based vehicular networks. This paper presents a new secure content fragmentation method that is resistant to Denial‐of‐Service (DoS) attacks in CCN‐based vehicular networks. Our approach guarantees the authenticity of each fragment through the immediate fragment verification at interim nodes on the routing path. Our experiment results demonstrate that the proposed approach provides much stronger security than the existing approach named FIGOA, without imposing a significant overhead in the process. The proposed method achieves a high immediate verification probability of 98.2% on average, which is 52% higher than that of FIGOA, while requiring only 14% more fragments than FIGOA.
Updated checklist and distribution of the diaptomid copepods (Copepoda, Calanoida, Diaptomidae) of China
Authors: Li Huiming , Dumont Henri J. , Han Bo-Ping , Lin Qiuqi
Published: February 2018

We present an updated checklist of the Diaptomidae of China, based on a literature review and on original field data from all over China during 2012-2016. A total of 19 genera and 56 species have been recorded.Neutrodiaptomushas the highest species richness (10 species), followed byArctodiaptomus(9 species). Only one species each ofEudiaptomus,Mixodiaptomus,Eodiaptomus,Dentodiaptomus,Dolodiaptomus,Allodiaptomus,Karstodiaptomus,MetadiaptomusandParadiaptomuswas found. The taxonomic status of 16 species was revised: one wrongly attributed genus,Argyrodiaptomus, was corrected toSinodiaptomus. First records for China includeArctodiaptomus parvispineusand one new cave-dwelling genus,Karstodiaptomus, is added. One Latin name from Shen & Sung’s book (1979) is corrected. Remarks on nomenclature and taxonomic issues are supplemented with information on the geographical distribution of the various species within China.
Behind the Mask: Hybrid Identity Work of Indian Women Managers in Corporate South Africa
Authors: Carrim Nasima M. H.
Published: February 2018

There is a dearth of research on how women managers engage in hybrid identity work during their career transitions, and the aim of this study was to fill this gap. Interviews were conducted with 13 Indian women managers in senior and top managerial positions, and the data obtained were analysed using thematic analysis. The narratives indicate that previously disadvantaged groups (Indian women in this case) are caught between subscribing to cultural values and concurrently conforming to organisational norms. Participants’ answers to the question: “Who am I as an Indian female manager?” reveal that during their career ascendency these women engage in a tremendous amount of hybrid identity work and rework related to their self-concept of being an “ideal” Indian female and simultaneously being a “perfect” manager. Nevertheless, in their career transitions to managerial positions, these women are selective in the hybrid identity work they engage in.
Productive and Creative Poiesis and the Work of Art
Authors: Tuckwell Jason
Published: February 2018

There are two ancient formulations of the problem art presents to us: poiesis understands art as a generic ontological problem and techné treats art as a particular kind of work—a skilful, intentional practice to deviate processes of becoming. Arguably, this distinction leads to very different procedures for determining the ‘work of art’; poiesis considers artistic praxis as resolved into the artefact while techné considers it as a problem in-itself. This tension is evident in the generic designation of the ‘work of art’ which tends to conflate process with what this process produces. This conflation about the work of art can be illuminated via a return to Aristotle’s concept of techné. This is because techné (the kind of work art performs) remains irreducible to both poiesis (to make) and praxis (deliberative action). Where poiesis and praxis are constructive activities differentiated by their intentional ends, techné remains a more foundational power to work upon processes of material causation. What these Aristotelian distinctions clarify is that the work of art is neither resolvable in the terms of its productions (poiesis) or the terms of its practices (praxis, deliberative actions); rather, art works by deviating these productive processes in the midst of their becoming, by bringing unprecedented differences into being. As such, the work of art apprehended by Aristotelian techné is not reducible to any poiesis; it works upon and divides poiesis into another workflow—a creative poiesis. The work of art thus appears as a creative, causal power counter-posed to all production.
Slavery in Third-Millennium Mesopotamia
Authors: Verderame Lorenzo
Published: February 2018

Third-millennium Mesopotamia has provided an impressive quantity of sources for the study of ancient slavery, among them a collection of standards (the so-called Laws of Ur-Namma). Despite the volume of documents, Mesopotamian slavery remains elusive in its general traits. This is partly due to the nature of the sources, but also to the approaches and interpretations of modern scholars. Slavery in ancient Mesopotamia has been the focus of several studies in the 1960s and 1970s that interpreted the sources using comparative approaches and Marxist analyses. Since then, the topic has seldom been revisited. In this article, I present the status quaestionis with an overview of the available sources and related studies, together with a sketch of the different types of bonded and forced labor in the Neo-Sumerian period (21st cent. BCE).
A Grid-Refinement-Based Approach for Modeling the Convective Boundary Layer in the Gray Zone: Algorithm Implementation and Testing
Authors: Zhou Bowen , Xue Ming , Zhu Kefeng
Published: February 2018

A grid-refinement-based method is implemented in a community atmospheric model to improve the representation of convective boundary layer (CBL) turbulence on gray-zone [i.e., ~O(1) km] grids. At this resolution, CBL convection is partially resolved and partially subgrid scale (SGS), such that neither traditional mesoscale planetary boundary layer (PBL) schemes nor SGS closures for large-eddy simulations (LESs) are appropriate. The proposed method utilizes two-way interactive nesting to refine the horizontal resolution of the unstable surface layer of the daytime CBL. SGS turbulent mixing in the fine nest and coarse parent grids are parameterized by an LES turbulence closure and a PBL scheme, respectively. The method does not rely on predetermined empirical functions to introduce grid (scale) dependency and in theory works with any PBL scheme. Compared to the stand-alone gray-zone simulation, the proposed approach shows improvements in terms of higher-order statistics, the timing of the onset of resolved convection, and the convective structures. A deficiency of the method exists when the nest domain is limited to the surface layer; the convective structures become gradually contaminated by spurious convection on the parent gray-zone grid. A deeper nest domain alleviates the issue at increased computational costs.
Agony and Ecstasy in the Gig Economy: Cultivating Holding Environments for Precarious and Personalized Work Identities
Authors: Petriglieri Gianpiero , Ashford Susan J. , Wrzesniewski Amy
Published: February 2018

Building on an inductive, qualitative study of independent workers—people not affiliated with an organization or established profession—this paper develops a theory about the management of precarious and personalized work identities. We find that in the absence of organizational or professional membership, workers experience stark emotional tensions encompassing both the anxiety and fulfillment of working in precarious and personal conditions. Lacking the holding environment provided by an organization, the workers we studied endeavored to create one for themselves through cultivating connections to routines, places, people, and a broader purpose. These personal holding environments helped them manage the broad range of emotions stirred up by their precarious working lives and focus on producing work that let them define, express, and develop their selves. Thus holding environments transformed workers’ precariousness into a tolerable and even generative predicament. By clarifying the process through which people manage emotions associated with precarious and personalized work identities, and thereby render their work identities viable and their selves vital, this paper advances theorizing on the emotional underpinnings of identity work and the systems psychodynamics of independent work.
Time to failure modeling of carbon fiber reinforced polymer composites subject to simultaneous tension and one-sided heat flux
Authors: Swanson D , Wolfrum J
Published: February 2018

This study focuses on observing and analyzing the time to failure of carbon fiber reinforced polymers subject to mechanical loading and one-sided heat flux simulating fire damage. The purpose of this investigation is to understand the rate of thermal degradation and mechanical property loss from fire exposure, resulting in catastrophic failure under simultaneous tensile loading. Composite samples of varying thicknesses and layup patterns are subject to a constant tensile load below the ultimate strength of the material. A thermal load is applied to one side by an infrared band heater, emitting a constant heat flux. The time to failure is monitored to determine how long the material can withstand this combined loading condition. A consistent trend is observed for various heat flux settings. High mechanical loads contribute to a shorter time to failure, and low mechanical loads contribute to a longer time to failure. Similarly, higher heat flux settings result in shorter failure times, and lower heat flux settings result in longer failure times. Temperature profiles are created based on heat flux exposure time and position through the sample thickness, establishing failure criteria for different loading conditions. The resulting trends are observed and extrapolated to create a predictive model using an Arrhenius exponential decay function.
Tribological properties of Fe–Ni-based composites with Ni-coated reduced graphene oxide–MoS2
Authors: Chen Beibei , Li Xiang , Jia Yuhan , Li Xiaofang , Zhang Mingsuo , Dong Jinze
Published: February 2018

Fe–Ni-based composites with Ni-coated reduced grapheme oxide (RGO)–MoS2 were fabricated by powder metallurgy technique, and their morphology, phase composition, and tribological properties at different temperatures were investigated systematically. Results showed that Fe–Ni-based composite with Ni-coated RGO–MoS2 possessed much more uniform and denser microstructure, and higher hardness than that with RGO–MoS2. Furthermore, Ni-coated RGO–MoS2 additive greatly allowed increasing the friction-reducing and wear-resistant properties, due to the reinforcing and lubricating effect new phase (Fe3W3C, CrxS1+ x, etc.) and the improvement on interfacial compatibility between Ni-coated RGO–MoS2 and Fe–Ni matrix. In particular, as the content of Ni-coated RGO–MoS2 was 5 wt%, the friction coefficient and wear rate of the corresponding composite was decreased nearly 50% and 75%, respectively. More importantly, Ni-coated RGO–MoS2 reinforced composite kept excellent tribological properties at elevated temperature. Its friction coefficient decreased firstly with the increased temperature from 25℃ to 400℃, then increased slightly when the temperature increased to 600℃. Besides, the wear rate was only 0.73–0.9 × 10−4 mm3/Nm during the whole temperature range. This suggested that Ni-coated RGO–MoS2 was a promising additive of metallic-based composites suitable for high-temperature sliding condition.