bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Roles of Capsule and Lipopolysaccharide O Antigen in Interactions of Human Monocyte-Derived Dendritic Cells and
Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Evrard B. , Balestrino D. , Dosgilbert A. , Bouya-Gachancard J.-L. J. , Charbonnel N. , Forestier C. , Tridon A. 
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT

In humans,
Klebsiella pneumoniae
is a saprophytic bacterium of the nasopharyngeal and intestinal mucosae that is also frequently responsible for severe nosocomial infections. Two major factors of virulence, capsular polysaccharide (CPS) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) O antigen, are involved in mucosal colonization and the development of infections. These bacterial surface structures are likely to play major roles in interactions with the mucosal immune system, which are orchestrated by a network of surveillance based on dendritic cells (DCs). To determine the roles of
K. pneumoniae
CPS and LPS in the DC response, we investigated the response of immature human monocyte-derived DCs to bacterial challenge with a wild-type strain and its isogenic mutants deficient in CPS or LPS O-antigen production. As observed by flow cytometry and confocal laser microscopy, the rate of phagocytosis was inversely proportional to the amount of CPS on the bacterial cell surface, with LPS playing little or no role. The
K. pneumoniae
wild-type strain induced DC maturation with upregulation of CD83, CD86, and TLR4 and downregulation of CD14 and DC-SIGN. With CPS mutants, we observed a greater decrease in DC-SIGN, suggesting a superior maturation of DCs. In addition, incubation of DCs with CPS mutants, and to a lesser extent with LPS mutants, resulted in significantly higher Th1 cytokine production. Combined, our findings suggest that
K. pneumoniae
CPS, by hampering bacterial binding and internalization, induces a defective immunological host response, including maturation of DCs and pro-Th1 cytokine production, whereas the LPS O antigen seems to be involved essentially in DC activation.
Effect of MarA-Like Proteins on Antibiotic Resistance and Virulence in
Yersinia pestis
Authors: Lister Ida M. , Mecsas Joan , Levy Stuart B. 
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT

MarA, an AraC/XylS transcriptional regulator in
Escherichia coli
, affects drug susceptibility and virulence. Two MarA-like proteins have been found in
Yersinia pestis
: MarA47 and MarA48. Deletion or overexpression of these proteins in the attenuated KIM 1001 Δ
pgm
strain led to a change in multidrug susceptibility (including susceptibility to clinically relevant drugs). Additionally, lung colonization by the
marA47
or
marA48
deletion mutant was decreased about 10-fold in a pneumonic plague mouse model. Complementation of the deletions by replacing the deleted genes on the chromosome restored wild-type characteristics. These findings show that two MarA homologs in
Y. pestis
affect antibiotic susceptibility and virulence.
Non-parametric parametricity
Authors: Neis Georg , Dreyer Derek , Rossberg Andreas 
Published: October 2009

Type abstraction and intensional type analysis are features seemingly at odds-type abstraction is intended to guarantee parametricity and representation independence, while type analysis is inherently non-parametric. Recently, however, several researchers have proposed and implemented "dynamic type generation" as a way to reconcile these features. The idea is that, when one defines an abstract type, one should also be able to generate at run time a fresh type name, which may be used as a dynamic representative of the abstract type for purposes of type analysis. The question remains: in a language with non-parametric polymorphism, does dynamic type generation provide us with the same kinds of abstraction guarantees that we get from parametric polymorphism?
Our goal is to provide a rigorous answer to this question. We define a step-indexed Kripke logical relation for a language with both non-parametric polymorphism (in the form of type-safe cast) and dynamic type generation. Our logical relation enables us to establish parametricity and representation independence results, even in a non-parametric setting, by attaching arbitrary relational interpretations to dynamically-generated type names. In addition, we explore how programs that are provably equivalent in a more traditional parametric logical relation may be "wrapped" systematically to produce terms that are related by our non-parametric relation, and vice versa. This leads us to a novel "polarized" form of our logical relation, which enables us to distinguish formally between positive and negative notions of parametricity.
OXenstored
Authors: Gazagnaire Thomas , Hanquez Vincent 
Published: October 2009

We describe in this paper our implementation of the Xenstored service which is part of the Xen architecture. Xenstored maintains a hierarchical and transactional database, used for storing and managing configuration values.
We demonstrate in this paper that mixing functional data-structures together with reference cell comparison, which is a limited form of pointer comparison, is: (i) safe; and (ii) efficient. This demonstration is based, first, on an axiomatization of operations on the tree-like structure we used to represent the Xenstored database. From this axiomatization, we then derive an efficient algorithm for coalescing concurrent transactions modifying that structure. Finally, we experimentally compare the performance of our implementation, that we called OXenstored, and the C implementation of the Xenstored service distributed with the Xen hypervisor sources: the results show that Oxenstored is much more efficient than its C counterpart.
As a direct result of this work, OXenstored will be included in future releases of Xenserver, the virtualization product distributed by Citrix Systems, where it will replace the current implementation of the Xenstored service.
Identifying query incompatibilities with evolving XML schemas
Authors: Genevès Pierre , Layaïda Nabil , Quint Vincent 
Published: October 2009

During the life cycle of an XML application, both schemas and queries may change from one version to another. Schema evolutions may affect query results and potentially the validity of produced data. Nowadays, a challenge is to assess and accommodate the impact of these changes in evolving XML applications. Such questions arise naturally in XML static analyzers. These analyzers often rely on decision procedures such as inclusion between XML schemas, query containment and satisfiability. However, existing decision procedures cannot be used directly in this context. The reason is that they are unable to distinguish information related to the evolution from information corresponding to bugs. This paper proposes a predicate language within a logical framework that can be used to make this distinction.
We present a system for monitoring the effect of schema evolutions on the set of admissible documents and on the results of queries. The system is very powerful in analyzing various scenarios where the result of a query may not be anymore what was expected. Specifically, the system is based on a set of predicates which allow a fine-grained analysis for a wide range of forward and backward compatibility issues. Moreover, the system can produce counterexamples and witness documents which are useful for debugging purposes. The current implementation has been tested with realistic use cases, where it allows identifying queries that must be reformulated in order to produce the expected results across successive schema versions.
Attribute grammars fly first-class
Authors: Viera Marcos , Swierstra S. Doaitse , Swierstra Wouter 
Published: October 2009

Attribute Grammars (AGs), a general-purpose formalism for describing recursive computations over data types, avoid the trade-off which arises when building software incrementally: should it be easy to add new data types and data type alternatives or to add new operations on existing data types? However, AGs are usually implemented as a pre-processor, leaving e.g. type checking to later processing phases and making interactive development, proper error reporting and debugging difficult. Embedding AG into Haskell as a combinator library solves these problems.
Previous attempts at embedding AGs as a domain-specific language were based on extensible records and thus exploiting Haskell's type system to check the well formedness of the AG, but fell short in compactness and the possibility to abstract over oft occurring AG patterns. Other attempts used a very generic mapping for which the AG well-formedness could not be statically checked.
We present a typed embedding of AG in Haskell satisfying all these requirements. The key lies in using HList-like typed heterogeneous collections (extensible polymorphic records) and expressing AG well-formedness conditions as type-level predicates (i.e., type-class constraints). By further type-level programming we can also express common programming patterns, corresponding to the typical use cases of monads such as Reader, Writer and State. The paper presents a realistic example of type-class-based type-level programming in Haskell.
Parallel concurrent ML
Authors: Reppy John , Russo Claudio V. , Xiao Yingqi 
Published: October 2009

Concurrent ML (CML) is a high-level message-passing language that supports the construction of first-class synchronous abstractions called events. This mechanism has proven quite effective over the years and has been incorporated in a number of other languages. While CML provides a concurrent programming model, its implementation has always been limited to uniprocessors. This limitation is exploited in the implementation of the synchronization protocol that underlies the event mechanism, but with the advent of cheap parallel processing on the desktop (and laptop), it is time for Parallel CML.
Parallel implementations of CML-like primitives for Java and Haskell exist, but build on high-level synchronization constructs that are unlikely to perform well. This paper presents a novel, parallel implementation of CML that exploits a purpose-built optimistic concurrency protocol designed for both correctness and performance on shared-memory multiprocessors. This work extends and completes an earlier protocol that supported just a strict subset of CML with synchronization on input, but not output events. Our main contributions are a model-checked reference implementation of the protocol and two concrete implementations. This paper focuses on Manticore's functional, continuation-based implementation but briefly discusses an independent, thread-based implementation written in C# and running on Microsoft's stock, parallel runtime. Although very different in detail, both derive from the same design. Experimental evaluation of the Manticore implementation reveals good performance, dispite the extra overhead of multiprocessor synchronization.
Automatically RESTful web applications
Authors: McCarthy Jay A. 
Published: October 2009

Continuation-based Web servers provide distinct advantages over traditional Web application development: expressive power and modularity. This power leads to fewer errors and more interesting applications. Furthermore, these Web servers are more than prototypes; they are used in some real commercial applications. Unfortunately, they pay a heavy price for the additional power in the form of lack of scalability.
We fix this key problem with a modular program transformation that produces scalable, continuation-based Web programs based on the REST architecture. Our programs use the same features as non-scalable, continuation-based Web programs, so we do not sacrifice expressive power for performance. In particular, we allow continuation marks in Web programs. Our system uses 10 percent (or less) of the memory required by previous approaches.
Supervised Learning in Spiking Neural Networks with ReSuMe: Sequence Learning, Classification, and Spike Shifting
Authors: Ponulak Filip , Kasiński Andrzej 
Published: October 2009

Learning from instructions or demonstrations is a fundamental property of our brain necessary to acquire new knowledge and develop novel skills or behavioral patterns. This type of learning is thought to be involved in most of our daily routines. Although the concept of instruction-based learning has been studied for several decades, the exact neural mechanisms implementing this process remain unrevealed. One of the central questions in this regard is, How do neurons learn to reproduce template signals (instructions) encoded in precisely timed sequences of spikes? Here we present a model of supervised learning for biologically plausible neurons that addresses this question. In a set of experiments, we demonstrate that our approach enables us to train spiking neurons to reproduce arbitrary template spike patterns in response to given synaptic stimuli even in the presence of various sources of noise. We show that the learning rule can also be used for decision-making tasks. Neurons can be trained to classify categories of input signals based on only a temporal configuration of spikes. The decision is communicated by emitting precisely timed spike trains associated with given input categories. Trained neurons can perform the classification task correctly even if stimuli and corresponding decision times are temporally separated and the relevant information is consequently highly overlapped by the ongoing neural activity. Finally, we demonstrate that neurons can be trained to reproduce sequences of spikes with a controllable time shift with respect to target templates. A reproduced signal can follow or even precede the targets. This surprising result points out that spiking neurons can potentially be applied to forecast the behavior (firing times) of other reference neurons or networks.
Dispute Settlement under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea: Survey for 2008
Authors: Churchill Robin 
Published: October 2009

AbstractThis is the fifth of a series of annual surveys reviewing dispute settlement under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. The main developments during 2008 were the fourth triennial elections to the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea; an order made by the Tribunal further continuing the suspension of proceedings in the Swordfish case; and the referral of a maritime boundary dispute between Peru and Chile to the International Court of Justice.
Climate Change and Renewable Energy from the Ocean and Tides: Calming the Sea of Regulatory Uncertainty
Authors: Leary David , Esteban Miguel 
Published: October 2009

AbstractWe examine the state of ocean energy in 2009 and consider its potential as a source of renewable energy. We provide a background on the current state of technology and commercial development, and examine the implications for law and policy of the re-emergence of ocean energy as a source of renewable energy in 2009. In the 1970s much of the academic and policy literature highlighted jurisdictional uncertainty surrounding ocean energy under international law. This is not the case today. Although some questions remain with respect to navigation rights, most questions surrounding the nature and extent of coastal State jurisdiction in relation to ocean energy have been resolved by the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Instead we argue that one of the biggest challenges faced by ocean energy today is the uncertain state of regulation under domestic legal systems. We highlight issues requiring attention by policy-makers and legislators, including managing hazards to navigation, providing further financial incentives for wide-scale commercialisation of this technology (such as increased research and development funding and feed-in tariffs) and managing ocean energy's relatively benign environmental impacts.
The Homogeneity of International Criminal Court with Islamic Jurisprudence
Authors: Malekian Farhad 
Published: October 2009

AbstractWhen implemented, the systems of the International Criminal Court (ICC) and Islamic criminal jurisdiction have to ensure equality, justice and peace for humanity. Consequently, implementation of international or Islamic justice does not necessarily emphasise applying the power of law but rather, as well as possible, the power to achieve appropriate human rights principles, which can reach the heart of the international community as a whole. Giving priority to any concept of law, thus recognizing one concept over another, diminishes the value of international criminal justice and creates contradictions in the application of an impartial equal jurisdiction and basic philosophy of cultural attitudes. Therefore, when the ICC Statute was being drafted, there was a strong tendency to overlook the cultural context of law within the social structures of various nations. The chief purpose of this article is to look into the basic principles of the Statute and examine whether similar principles can also be found within Islamic criminal jurisprudence. The article indicates the ability of both systems to function together and increase the practical intensification of international criminal justice. The study also offers, in a homogenous manner, to expand the juridical relationship, seeking cooperation and accommodation between the two systems in order to modify, adapt, adjust or alter laws for the better understanding of justice and equality between nations around the world. Prevention of international crimes will not be achieved through Islamic or ICC jurisprudence, or through any other system of law, but solely by cultivating equal justice together with the spirit of love and mutual admiration. This is the only seed for the promulgation of the ethic of reciprocity or the celebration of the golden rule of humanity.
Use of a Type I/III Bilayer Collagen Membrane Decreases Reoperation Rates for Symptomatic Hypertrophy after Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation
Authors: Gomoll Andreas H. , Probst Christian , Farr Jack , Cole Brian J. , Minas Tom 
Published: October 2009

Background Autologous chondrocyte implantation is associated with a high rate of reoperation, mostly due to hypertrophy of the periosteal patch. European studies investigating the use of collagen membranes as a periosteal substitute report significant decreases in reoperation rates to less than 5%. This multicenter study investigates the off-label use of 1 collagen membrane as a periosteal substitute for autologous chondrocyte implantation. Hypothesis The use of a collagen membrane for autologous chondrocyte implantation will decrease reoperation rates for hypertrophy with comparable rates of failure. Study Design Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods A multicenter cohort of 300 patients treated with periosteal-covered autologous chondrocyte implantation was compared with a consecutive series of 101 patients who underwent collagen membrane–covered autologous chondrocyte implantation with the Bio-Gide membrane by the same group of surgeons. The 1-year hypertrophy-related reoperation rates and overall failure rates of autologous chondrocyte implantation were evaluated in both groups. Results Both groups were comparable for age (periosteal autologous chondrocyte implantation, 31.9 years; collagen autologous chondrocyte implantation, 32.4 years; P 5 .8) and average defect size (4.6 cm2 and 4.7 cm2, respectively; P 5 .7). The average number of defects (1.5 and 1.8; P 5 .001) and total defect area per knee (6.7 cm2 and 8.6 cm2; P 5 .003) were larger in the collagen membrane group. Within 1 year of surgery, 25.7% of patients treated with periosteal-covered autologous chondrocyte implantation required reoperation for hypertrophy and 2.3% were considered to have failed their treatment with autologous chon-drocyte implantation. In comparison, only 5% of patients required reoperation for hypertrophy after collagen membrane–covered autologous chondrocyte implantation, and 4% were considered treatment failures. Conclusion The use of a collagen membrane for autologous chondrocyte implantation decreased the reoperation rate for hypertrophy after autologous chondrocyte implantation from 25.7% to 5% (P < .0001). Overall 1-year failure rates were comparable between the groups (P 5 .2). Even though the use of a collagen membrane for autologous chondrocyte implantation constitutes an off-label indication, its application appears justified by the lower morbidity to patients and decreased cost to the health care system. A detailed discussion with the patient is required regarding the use of an off-label device.
Relation between corset use and lung function postural variation in spinal cord injury
Authors: Prigent H. , Roche N. , Laffont I. , Lejaille M. , Falaize L. , Barbot F. , Lofaso F. 
Published: October 2009

Corsets are widely used to improve trunk stability in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) and can improve respiratory function. The aim of the present study was to identify predictors of respiratory benefits from wearing a corset in SCI patients.In a prospective observational study, respiratory function was tested in the supine and upright seated position with and without a corset in 36 SCI patients who regularly used a corset. SCI patients who no longer used a corset were matched to users on sex, injury level and severity.Vital capacity (VC) did not differ between users and nonusers in the supine position. In users, contrary to nonusers, VC increased significantly in the supine position compared to the seated position (increase of 0.43±0.39versus-0.05±0.32 L in nonusers; p<0.0001). Corset use was associated with a significant VC increase in the upright position (2.13±0.71 L withoutversus2.41±0.69 L with the corset; p<0.001). The VC increase with the corset in the upright position correlated significantly with the VC increase induced by being supine, compared to sitting without the corset.The VC increase induced in SCI patients by lying supine may predict the effects of wearing a corset. The long-term effects of corset use should be evaluated.
A 20-year experience of electron microscopy in the diagnosis of primary ciliary dyskinesia
Authors: Papon J. F. , Coste A. , Roudot-Thoraval F. , Boucherat M. , Roger G. , Tamalet A. , Vojtek A. M. , Amselem S. , Escudier E. 
Published: October 2009

Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis of ciliary ultrastructure is classically used for the diagnosis of primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD). We report our extensive experience of TEM analysis in a large series of patients in order to evaluate its feasibility and results.TEM analysis performed in 1,149 patients with suspected PCD was retrospectively reviewed. Biopsies (1,450) were obtained from nasal (44%) or bronchial (56%) mucosa in children (66.5%) and adults (33.5%).TEM analysis was feasible in 71.4% of patients and showed a main defect suggestive of PCD in 29.9%. TEM was more feasible in adults than in children, regardless of the biopsy site. Main defects suggestive of PCD were found in 76.9% of patients with sinopulmonary symptoms and in only 0.4% of patients with isolated upper and 0.4% with isolated lower respiratory tract infections. The defect pattern was similar in children and adults, involving dynein arms (81.2%) or central complex (CC) (18.8%). Situs inversus was never observed in PCD patients with CC defect. Kartagener syndrome with normal ciliary ultrastructure was not an exceptional condition (10.2% of PCD).In conclusion, TEM analysis is feasible in most patients and is particularly useful for PCD diagnosis in cases of sinopulmonary syndrome of unknown origin.