Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Detecting critical nodes for network vulnerability assessment under cascading failures

Recently, the major challenge in the robustness evaluation of networks is to enhance the detecting the most critical nodes. Many researchers have studied the problem of detecting the list of attacked nodes, which are the number of failed nodes is maximum, in order to protect these nodes. However, there is no any previous works to consider the cost of attacks that the budget is limited is very practical in the real attacks. In this paper, we study the problem of attacking nodes in networks to maximize the total profits of attacked nodes, where the total cost of attacks is remained under the budget. In addition, an algorithm is proposed to solve problem of attacking nodes in the network with limited budget while guaranteeing the high total profits of attacked nodes. Simulation results show that the proposed method provides good performance.
Expression of specific granule markers on the cell surface of neutrophil cytoplasts.

The widespread assumption that cytoplasts generated from human polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) are vesicles consisting solely of cytoplasm surrounded by plasma membrane and devoid of granule activity remains to be tested. PMN cytoplasts were prepared by centrifugation of intact cells on a Ficoll step gradient in the presence of cytochalasin B. Two granule membrane markers, Mol, a fluorometrically detectable antigen, and cytochrome b, both of which have been shown to translocate to the plasma membrane during granule release, were compared for their activity in cytoplasts and intact PMNs. We found that the amount of Mol detected on the plasma membrane of intact PMNs, as compared with other membrane markers (such as antigens LFA-1 and beta 2m), increased 1.6-fold upon exposure of PMNs to Ficoll plus cytochalasin B prior to centrifugation. Another twofold increase in Mol expression occurred upon cytoplast preparation. Release of the granule enzymes, vitamin B12-binding protein, and lysozyme were also followed and correlated well (r = .78 and .92) with the amount of Mol antigen present on the cell surface. Cytochrome b was also found to be higher (1.4-fold) on plasma membranes isolated from cytoplasts than on plasma membranes isolated from intact control cells. These results indicate that some fusion of granule membranes and plasma membranes occurred during treatment of PMNs with Ficoll plus cytochalasin b and during cytoplast preparation.
Synaptic dynamics: Linear model and adaptation algorithm

Linear model for synapse temporal dynamics and learning algorithm for synaptic adaptation in spiking neural networks are presented. The proposed linear model substantially simplifies analysis and training of spiking neural networks, meanwhile accurately models facilitation and depression dynamics in synapse. The learning rule is biologically plausible and is capable of simultaneously adjusting both of LTP and STP parameters of individual synapses in a network. To prove efficiency of the system, a small size spiking neural network is trained for generating different spike and bursting patterns of cortical neurons. The simulation results revealed that the linear model of synaptic dynamics along with the proposed STDP based learning algorithm can provide a practical tool for simulating and training very large scale spiking neural circuitry comprising of significant number of synapses and neurons.
Interleukin-12 in children with sepsis and septic shock.

OBJECTIVE To examine the behavior of interleukin-12 and verify whether it can be used to differentiate septic conditions in children. METHODS Septic children aged between 28 days and 14 years, prospectively enrolled from 01/2004 to 12/2005, were divided into sepsis (SG; n=47) and septic shock (SSG; n=43) groups. Interleukin-12 levels were measured at admission (T0) and 12 hours later (T12). Disease severity was assessed by the PRISM score. RESULTS Interleukin-12 levels did not differentiate children with sepsis from those with septic shock at admission [SSG: 0.24 (0-226.4)=SG: 1.23 (0-511.6); p=0.135)] and T12 [SG: 6.11 (0-230.5)=SSG: 1.32 (0-61.0); p=0.1239)]. Comparing time points, no significant difference was observed in the SG [SG, T0: 1.23 (0-511.6)=T12: 6.11 (0-230.5); p=0.075]. In SSG however, interleukin-12 increased from T0 to T12 (SSG, T0: 0.24 (0-226.4)<T12: 1.32 (0-61.0); p=0.018]. The mean percentage agreement between the clinical diagnosis and laboratory findings was 59.7% and 58.5% for the SG and SSG, respectively, with no significant difference between groups and time points (p>0.05). There was no correlation between onterleukin-12 levels at admission and the PRISM score for either group. CONCLUSION Interleukin-12 levels cannot differentiate between septic conditions and are not related to disease severity at admission. In septic shock patients, interleukin-12 increases with time.
An Omnidirectional Vision Sensor with Single View and Constant Resolution

Many omnidirectional vision sensors based on convex mirrors have been proposed for observing a 360 degrees field of view. Some have a single viewpoint using a hyperboloidal or parabolic mirror, others have a constant resolution property. Until now, there have not been any that have had both these properties. In this paper, we propose an omnidirectional vision sensor that has both properties; that is, a single viewpoint and a constant resolution. The proposed omnidirectional sensor uses two mirrors, which improves the degree of freedom of the design for satisfying each property. We discuss optimization of the design in terms of geometry and optics.
Evaluation of Flexible Points on User Interface for Information System

A convertible handbag and backpack is disclosed which includes a bag body to which a pair of carrying straps are secured. The straps are secured to the bag near the bottom of the bag body and are slidably mounted to a side of the bag body proximate the top of the bag. Intermediate the bottom securement and slidable mount at the top, the straps are unattached to the bag body. The carrying straps further extend above the bag, cross each other over the top of the bag, and are secured to diametrically opposed positions on the opposite side of the bag body. When the convertible handbag and backpack is carried as a handbag, the crossed straps are simply gripped over the bag top. When the bag is carried as a backpack, the straps are slipped down through the mounting structure to permit insertion of the arms of the user between the straps and the bag body. In the backpack carrying mode the crossed straps are automatically pulled down over the top of the bag body to insure that the bag top does not fall open.
Trade credit, traditional credit and monetary policy transmissions: Evidence from Chinese firms

This paper investigates the determinants and roles of trade credit (informal financing channel) and traditional credit (formal financing channel) based on a sample of 674 listed firms from the manufacturing sector in China during monetary policy transmissions over 2001–2007. Our evidence supports that trade credit likely plays a complementary role to traditional credit, and that the imperfect credit market view rather than the redistribution view accounts for the complementary hypothesis according to our sample.
χ2 Metric learning for nearest neighbor classification and its analysis

We study the Chi-Squared (χ2) distance and metric learning as a problem of Large Margin Nearest Neighbor (LMNN) classification. We suggest the χ2 metric learning algorithm, based on the LMNN approach, to learn a metric to improve the accuracy of k-nearest neighbor (kNN) classification. We show that the χ2 distance in the transformed space is one of the Quadratic-Chi distance family members. We use a gradient descent method to get an optimal value of the linear transformation matrix of the input feature space. We also show an alternative approach of χ2 metric learning by using a convex optimization method with relaxation. We demonstrate experimental results on the datasets mainly for domain adaptation.
Enhancing adoptive immunotherapy of cancer

Importance of the field: Conventional therapies, including surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy have contributed much to cancer treatment. However, these treatment modalities fail in a large proportion of patients, and there is a great need for effective alternate therapies. Adoptive immunotherapy can be effective against some cancers that have failed all other treatment options, even when disease burdens are massive. Areas covered in this review: This review gives a brief introduction of the historical origins of adoptive immunotherapy and then provides details of strategies for increasing the potency of cell transfer. Approaches for enhancing adoptive immunotherapy include: selecting the right type of cell; providing cytokine support; preconditioning patients and tuning the tumor microenvironment. The review also provides insights into the safety, feasibility and costs of this form of therapy. What the reader will gain: This article will give the reader an appreciation of the potential of adoptive immunotherapy, as well as an understanding of some limitations and current approaches for optimizing the effectiveness of this approach. Take home message: With recent developments in knowledge of the interactions between the immune system and tumors, the field of adoptive immunotherapy is now poised to make dramatic contributions to cancer therapy.
Optimal bidding strategies for an entry deterrence model of online auctions

In this project I explore sequential auctions with potential entry in later rounds. By considering a simple model, it can be shown that the main particularity of the equilibria taking place is that they try to conceal precious information to the new entrant. This project’s main result consists in the proof of a somewhat stronger impossibility result for the equilibria of the considered model. A review of the various strategies available to bidders, depending on the assumptions made, is
Suppression of methionine synthesis in Escherichia coli by growth in the presence of this amino acid.

SUMMARY: The ability of washed suspensions of Escherichia coli Y44 (which requires histidine and p-aminobenzoic acid for growth) to synthesize methionine from homocysteine was decreased almost to zero when the organism was harvested from a growth medium containing methionine itself. There was a similar effect, though in no case quite so severe, with eleven other strains of the organism. In further experiments with strain Y 44 the effect was found to be specific to methionine; the presence during growth of no other amino acid tested decreased subsequent synthesis by more than 20%. Ability to synthesize methionine was lost and regained on single successive cultivations in the presence and absence of the amino acid; there was also no evidence from viable counts on agar media ± methionine for a genetic change. ‘Inactive’ organisms (methionine-grown) were not activated by changing the nature of the precursor of the methyl group nor by adding heated extracts of yeast or of ‘active’ organisms. There was no evidence that ‘inactive’ organisms produced an inhibitor of methionine synthesis. It is concluded that growth with methionine leads to the non-production of an enzyme(s) concerned directly in the addition of the one-carbon unit to homocysteine.
ACIR: An Aspect-Connector for Intrusion Response

The modularization concept behind component-based software (CBS) cannot be applied effectively for cross-cutting concerns such as security. Aspect-oriented programming (AOP) helps in better modularization by identifying cross-cutting concerns and providing a suitable way to separate those concerns. In this paper, we provide an aspect-connector based intrusion response (detection and prevention) architecture for CBS by bringing the concepts of aspects into components. The aspect-connector is named as ACIR (aspect connector for intrusion response). Component interfaces act as join points, and aspects containing pointcuts and advices are defined in ACIR configuration file. Advices applicable to particular pointcuts are two types. Signature advices are used to detect intrusions, and action advices are executed to prevent intrusions. A prototype of this architecture is implemented and evaluated using some intrusions included in the Web application security consortium (WASC) intrusion list. This approach detects and prevents intrusions in CBS while maintaining encapsulation, reusability, and modularity.
Towards More Comprehensive and Multi-Modal Transport Evaluation

This report describes ways to make transportation planning evaluation more comprehensive and multi-modal. Conventional transport planning is mobility-based, it assumes that the planning objective is to maximize travel speed, and evaluates transport system performance based primarily on motor vehicle travel conditions. A new paradigm recognizes that the ultimate goal of most transport activity is accessibility, which refers to people’s overall ability to reach desired services and activities. This new paradigm applies more comprehensive and multi-modal evaluation which expands the range of modes, objectives, impacts and options considered in the planning process. This is particularly important in large growing cities where increased motor vehicle traffic imposes particularly large costs, and in developing countries where a major portion of households cannot afford cars.
Comparison of Teacher and Child-Centred Methods of Teaching Greek Traditional Dance in Primary Education

The policy in Greece of teaching Greek traditional dance in school education focused for decades on the teacher-centred method. In 2007, however, a shift was made to­ wards the child-centred method, but both methods are used at present. The purpose of the study was to compare the two teaching methods, especially the extent o f the pu­ pil's participation in the lesson, pleasure during the lesson, and interest in making an effort during the lesson. Research was conducted with 224 pupils at a primary school over a period of 6 months. During the first three months the teacher-centred method of teaching was adopted, and during the second three months the child-centred method. Data was collected using questionnaires and observation. It was proved that under the child-centred method pupils responded more positively in terms of effort, interest and pleasure in Greek traditional lessons than under the teacher-centred approach, and full participation was achieved.
Glutamate:Glyoxylate Aminotransferase Modulates Amino Acid Content during Photorespiration1

In photorespiration, peroxisomal glutamate:glyoxylate aminotransferase (GGAT) catalyzes the reaction of glutamate and glyoxylate to produce 2-oxoglutarate and glycine. Previous studies demonstrated that alanine aminotransferase-like protein functions as a photorespiratory GGAT. Photorespiratory transamination to glyoxylate, which is mediated by GGAT and serine glyoxylate aminotransferase (SGAT), is believed to play an important role in the biosynthesis and metabolism of major amino acids. To better understand its role in the regulation of amino acid levels, we produced 42 GGAT1 overexpression lines that express different levels of GGAT1 mRNA. The levels of free serine, glycine, and citrulline increased markedly in GGAT1 overexpression lines compared with levels in the wild type, and levels of these amino acids were strongly correlated with levels of GGAT1 mRNA and GGAT activity in the leaves. This accumulation began soon after exposure to light and was repressed under high levels of CO2. Light and nutrient conditions both affected the amino acid profiles; supplementation with NH4NO3 increased the levels of some amino acids compared with the controls. The results suggest that the photorespiratory aminotransferase reactions catalyzed by GGAT and SGAT are both important regulators of amino acid content.
The regulation of HIV‐1 transcription: Molecular targets for chemotherapeutic intervention

The regulation of transcription of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a complex event that requires the cooperative action of both viral and cellular components. In latently infected resting CD4+ T cells HIV‐1 transcription seems to be repressed by deacetylation events mediated by histone deacetylases (HDACs). Upon reactivation of HIV‐1 from latency, HDACs are displaced in response to the recruitment of histone acetyltransferases (HATs) by NF‐κB or the viral transcriptional activator Tat and result in multiple acetylation events. Following chromatin remodeling of the viral promoter region, transcription is initiated and leads to the formation of the TAR element. The complex of Tat with p‐TEFb then binds the loop structures of TAR RNA thereby positioning CDK9 to phosphorylate the cellular RNA polymerase II. The Tat‐TAR‐dependent phosphorylation of RNA polymerase II plays an important role in transcriptional elongation as well as in other post‐transcriptional events. As such, targeting of Tat protein (and/or cellular cofactors) provide an interesting perspective for therapeutic intervention in the HIV replicative cycle and may afford lifetime control of the HIV infection. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Med Res Rev, 26, No. 5, 595–625, 2006
In vitro and in silico studies of the inhibitory effects of some novel kojic acid derivatives on tyrosinase enzyme

Objective(s): Tyrosinase is a key enzyme in pigment synthesis. Overproduction of melanin in parts of the skin results in hyperpigmentation diseases. This enzyme is also responsible for the enzymatic browning in fruits and vegetables. Thus, its inhibitors are of great importance in the medical, cosmetic and agricultural fields. Materials and Methods: A series of twelve kojic acid derivatives were designed to be evaluated as tyrosinase activity inhibitors. The potential inhibitory activity of these compounds was investigated in silico using molecular docking simulation method. Four compounds with a range of predicted tyrosinase inhibitory activities were prepared and their inhibitory effect on tyrosinase activity was evaluated. The antioxidant properties of these compounds were also investigated by in vitro DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and hydrogen peroxide scavenging assays. Results: Compound IIId exhibited the highest tyrosinase inhibitory activity with an IC50 value of 0.216 ± 0.009 mM which was in accordance with the in silico ΔGbind results (-13.24 Kcal/mol). Conclusion: Based on the docking studies, from the twelve compounds studied, one (IIId) appeared to have the highest inhibition on tyrosinase activity. This was confirmed by enzyme activity measurements. Compound IIId has an NO2 group which binds to both of Cu2+ ions located inside the active site of the enzyme. This compound appeared to be even stronger than kojic acid in inhibiting tyrosinase activity. The DPPH free radical scavenging ability of all the studied compounds was more than that of BHT. However, they were not as strong as BHT or gallic acid in scavenging hydrogen peroxide.
THE ANTIGENIC RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PROTEUS X-19 AND TYPHUS RICKETTSIAE

1. The absorption of typhus sera (human or antityphus horse serum) with Proteus X-19 removes only the Proteus agglutinins, leaving the Rickettsia agglutinins intact. 2. The absorption of typhus sera with Mexican Rickettsiae removes the agglutinins for both the Rickettsia and Proteus X-19. 3. While normal or formalinized Rickettsiae are not agglutinated by anti-Proteus serum, these organisms—when formalinized and heated at 75°C. —become agglutinable by such serum. 4. The absorption of anti-Proteus serum with Mexican Rickettsiae removes agglutinins for formalinized and heated Rickettsiae but does not affect those for Proteus X-19.
The fundamental parameters of the roAp star γ Equulei

Context. A precise comparison of the predicted and observed locations of stars in the H-R diagram is needed when testing stellar interior theoretical models. For doing this, one must rely on accurate, observed stellar fundamental parameters (mass, radius, luminosity, and abundances). Aims. We determine the angular diameter of the rapidly oscillating Ap star, γ Equ, and derive its fundamental parameters from this value. Methods. We observed γ Equ with the visible spectro-interferometer VEGA installed on the optical CHARA interferometric array, and derived both the uniform-disk angular diameter and the limb-darkened diameter from the calibrated squared visibility. We then determined the luminosity and the effective temperature of the star from the whole energy flux distribution, the parallax, and the angular diameter. Results. We obtained a limb-darkened angular diameter of 0.564 ± 0.017 mas and deduced a radius of R = 2.20 ± 0.12 R� . Without considering the multiple nature of the system, we derived a bolometric flux of (3.12 ± 0.21) × 10 −7 erg cm −2 s −1 and an effective temperature of 7364 ± 235 K, which is below the previously determined effective temperature. Under the same conditions we found a luminosity of L = 12.8 ± 1.4 L� . When the contribution of the closest companion to the bolometric flux is considered, we found that ∞
Adaptive Indirect Fuzzy Sliding Mode Controller for Networked Control Systems Subject to Time-Varying Network-Induced Time Delay

Two major challenges in networked control systems are the time-varying networked-induced delays and the packet losses. To alleviate these problems, this study presents a novel fuzzy sliding mode controller, where a fuzzy system is used to estimate the nonlinear dynamical system online, and the networked-induced delay is handled by Pade approximation. The problem of packet losses is handled by viewing them as large time-varying delays in the system. The sliding mode-based design procedure used ensures the stability and the robustness of the proposed controller in the presence of disturbances and time-varying networked-induced time delays. Using an appropriate Lyapunov function, it is proved that the tracking error converges to the neighborhood of zero asymptotically. Furthermore, since the adaptation laws of the parameters are derived by using of the Lyapunov function, these laws are also found to be stable. Simulation results show that the proposed fuzzy sliding mode controller is capable of controlling nonlinear dynamical systems over a network, which is subject to bounded external disturbances, time-varying network-induced delays, and packet losses with adequate performance.