cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Propagation modeling and analysis of network worm attack

Building a realistic model for a network defense system against a worm attack is vital to better understand the effects of a worm attack on network assets and functionality. Traditional epidemic worm modeling does not take into consideration the real network topology or network actual defense measures.This paper proposes a computer worm model considering countermeasures and analyzes the stability of the model. The proposed VEISV (vulnerable, exposed, infected, secured, and vulnerable) multi-malware worm model is appropriate for realistic up-to-date security countermeasure implementation, and the model takes into consideration the accurate positions for hosts' replacements and hosts out-of-service in state transactions. Furthermore, initial simulation results show the positive impact of increasing security measures on a worm propagation wave. Additionally, confirmation of stability points is under development by using phase plot.
A synthesis of Late Oligocene through Miocene deep sea temperatures as inferred from foraminiferal Mg/Ca ratios

Published benthic foraminiferal Mg/Ca records have been compiled that span the latest Oligocene through Miocene, including new data for the South Atlantic. This synthesis, the first such of Mg/Ca data, necessitates consideration of uncertainties and limitations and provides a general perspective on the evolution of deep-sea temperatures over this period. Published Mg/Ca records show temperature patterns through the Miocene that are consistent with those first synthesized by Kennett (1985) utilizing isotope and other data. Accordingly, the early Miocene was an interval of relative warmth culminatinginaclimaticoptimumat � 16Mathatwascharacterizedbythewarmest(Mg-derived) temperatures of the past 20 million years. After the climatic optimum, palaeotemperatures dropped by 3‐4 � C during the second major advance of Antarctic ice between � 15Ma and 13Ma. For the late Miocene, between 11 and 8.5Ma, a distinct increase in benthic foraminiferal Mg/Ca ratios at two Atlantic sites provides evidence for deep to intermediate water circulation changes. Thereafter, temperatures close to modern are recorded at all sites. Assuming constant seawater Mg/Ca ratios through time, it can be concluded that the early Miocene climate was generally warmer than today and that by the late Miocene temperatures approached modern values.
Modulation of Myosin Light-Chain Phosphorylation by p21-Activated Kinase 1 in Escherichia coli Invasion of Human Brain Microvascular Endothelial Cells

Cytoskeletal dynamics, modulated by actin-myosin interactions, play an important role in Escherichia coli K1 invasion of human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMEC). Herein, we show that inhibitors of myosin function, butanedione monoxide and ML-7, significantly blocked the E. coli invasion of HBMEC. The invasive E. coli induces myosin light-chain (MLC) phosphorylation during the invasion process, which gets recruited to the site of actin condensation beneath the bacteria. We also show that invading E. coli downregulates the activity of p21-activated kinase 1 (PAK1), which is an upstream regulator of MLC kinase (MLCK). Overexpression of wild-type PAK1 and constitutively active PAK1 in HBMEC inhibits E. coli invasion significantly with a concomitant decrease in MLC phosphorylation. The inhibition of E. coli invasion by these PAK1 mutants is due to the absence of phospho-MLC at the actin condensation points. In contrast, the dominant-negative PAK1 shows no effect either on the invasion or on MLC phosphorylation or phospho-MLC recruitment to the actin focal points, suggesting that activated PAK1 inactivates MLCK. Taken together, these results suggest that E. coli invasion of HBMEC induces MLC phosphorylation by inhibiting the activity of PAK1 and the recruitment of phosphorylated MLC to the site of actin condensation beneath the bacteria for efficient internalization of E. coli into HBMEC.
Justice, Sympathy and the Command of our Esteem

I have shown here the different roles that sympathy plays in the accounts of justice in the Treatise and Enquiry . In the former work, a redirected sympathy naturally extends our concern, and subsequently our moral approval or blame, to all those included within the scope of the rules of justice. In the Enquiry , we find this same progress of sentiments, but Hume’s introduction of the sentiment of humanity allows him to make a stronger case for the importance of those virtues that are useful, particularly the virtues of justice. The command of our esteem and our moral approval of justice secure a place for justice at the heart of Hume’s ethics. This does not entail, however, that other useful virtues are not also essential. Benevolence and the care of children, friendship, and gratitude not only help to sustain sociability, but they are essential for living a properly human life.
Avoiding obstacles and resolving kinematic redundancy

While obstacles in a robot workspace can effectively reduce the number of degrees of freedom, there need not be a corresponding loss of functionality for kinematically redundant mechanisms. In this paper, disk-like obstacles for a planar three-bar mechanism are classified. The extended Jacobian technique is used to implement an obstacle avoidance technique based on optimizing a distance criterion. The feasibility of applying multiple constraints or optimality criteria for resolving redundancy is investigated.
Modeling of multifilament PET fiber melt-spinning

A fundamental issue in the polymer fiber melt-spinning process is the control of final properties. Most available melt-spinning models simulate only a single fiber, providing an incomplete representation of the actual industrial multifilament process. Variations across the fiber bundle in cooling air velocity and temperature result in nonuniformity in fiber properties. Simulation can provide insight into this cause-and-effect relationship and lead to better process design to control differences between fibers. The few multifilament models in existence typically use a Newtonian constitutive model for the polymer, failing to capture nonlinear effects which often play a significant role in the process. Experimental validation of multifilament simulation is lacking. We present a nonisothermal multifilament spinning model, applicable for a variety of polymer and process conditions. The model combines the flow-enhanced crystallization (FEC) fiber spinning model of McHugh et al. with a generalization of Dutta's multifilament model. The model predicts fiber properties such as stress, degree of crystallinity, fiber radius and temperature as a function of distance from the spinneret, along with quench air cross velocity and temperature throughout the fiber bundle region. The McHugh FEC model for single fiber spinning, based on a modified Giesekus constitutive model and Avrami-type crystallization kinetics, has been experimentally validated. In this work we show that results of the multifilament quench air model compare favorably to experimental measurements. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Toxoplasma gondii inhibits mast cell degranulation by suppressing phospholipase Cγ-mediated Ca(2+) mobilization.

Toxoplasma gondii is well known to subvert normal immune responses, however, mechanisms are incompletely understood. In particular, its capacity to alter receptor-activated Ca2+-mediated signaling processes has not been well-characterized. In initial experiments, we found evidence that T. gondii infection inhibits Ca2+ responses to fMetLeuPhe in murine macrophages. To further characterize the mechanism inhibition of Ca2+ mobilization by T. gondii, we used the well-studied RBL mast cell model to probe the capacity of T. gondii to modulate IgE receptor-activated signaling within the first hour of infection. Ca2+ mobilization that occurs via IgE/FceRI signaling leads to granule exocytosis in mast cells. We found that T. gondii inhibits antigen-stimulated degranulation in infected cells in a strain-independent manner. Under these conditions, we found that cytoplasmic Ca2+ mobilization, particularly antigen-mediated Ca2+ release from intracellular stores, is significantly reduced. Furthermore, stimulation-dependent activation of Syk kinase leading to tyrosine phosphorylation and activation of phospholipase Cγ is inhibited by infection. Therefore, we conclude that inhibitory effects of infection are likely due to parasite-mediated inhibition of the tyrosine kinase signaling cascade that results in reduced hydrolysis of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate. Interestingly, inhibition of IgE/FceRI signaling persists when tachyzoite invasion is arrested via cytochalasin D treatment, suggesting inhibition is mediated by a parasite-derived factor secreted into the cells during the invasion process. Our study provides direct evidence that immune subversion by T. gondii is initiated concurrently with invasion.
REGULATION OF IMMUNE RESPONSES BY TGF-β*

The transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) family of proteins are a set of pleiotropic secreted signaling molecules with unique and potent immunoregulatory properties. TGF-beta 1 is produced by every leukocyte lineage, including lymphocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells, and its expression serves in both autocrine and paracrine modes to control the differentiation, proliferation, and state of activation of these immune cells. TGF-beta can modulate expression of adhesion molecules, provide a chemotactic gradient for leukocytes and other cells participating in an inflammatory response, and inhibit them once they have become activated. Increased production and activation of latent TGF-beta have been linked to immune defects associated with malignancy and autoimmune disorders, to susceptibility to opportunistic infection, and to the fibrotic complications associated with chronic inflammatory conditions. In addition to these roles in disease pathogenesis, TGF-beta is now established as a principal mediator of oral tolerance and can be recognized as the sine qua non of a unique subset of effector cells that are induced in this process. The accumulated knowledge gained through extensive in vitro functional analyses and from in vivo animal models, including newly established TGF-beta gene knockout and transgenic mice, supports the concept that clinical therapies based on modulation of this cytokine represent an important new approach to the treatment of disorders of immune function.
CLASSIFICATION OF TENSOR PRODUCT IMMERSIONS WHICH ARE OF 1-TYPE

Let £'" denote the /n-dimensional Euclidean space with the canonical Euclidean inner product. Then, with respect to the inner product defined above, £'" £'" is isometric to £"""'. By applying this algebraic notion, we have the notion of tensor product map f h :M -» £'" £'"' = £"""' associated with any two maps / :M->£" ' and h:M^E'"' of a given Riemannian manifold (A/,g) defined as follows:
Neoichnology of burrowing millipedes: Linking modern burrow morphology, organism behavior, and sediment properties to interpret continental ichnofossils

Millipedes are known from body fossils as early as the Silurian, and they are an important part of modern global soil ecosystems. Little is known, however, of the morphology of millipede burrows in either the modern or the fossil record. The burrowing behavior and traces of two species of extant millipedes were studied in a laboratory setting. The goal of this research was to determine the connections between millipede morphology, burrow morphology, and media conditions. Specimens of Archispirostreptus gigas and Orthoporus ornatus were placed in large, sediment-filled terrariums. The sediment was varied in terms of texture, compactness, and moisture. Traces produced by the millipedes were then cast and described. The burrow morphology of each species was primarily controlled by trace-making behavior, including excavation methods and burrow occupation time. Orthoporus ornatus burrowed by excavation to construct subvertical shafts leading to terminal chambers occupied for several days to weeks. Archispirostreptus gigas burrowed by sediment compression to construct large-diameter, sinuous tunnels occupied for hours to days. Increasing the clay content, compaction, and moisture content of the sediment together served to inhibit burrowing. Specimens of A. gigas were unable to burrow into compact or clay-rich sediments, whereas specimens of O. ornatus were able to burrow into even firm clay. Neither species was able to burrow into water-saturated media. The study described in this paper aids in understanding the relationships among the morphology of terrestrial biogenic structures, organism size, organism behavior, and media conditions.
Predictive power management for multi-core processors

Predictive power management provides reduced power consumption and increased performance compared to reactive schemes. It effectively reduces the lag between workload phase changes and changes in power adaptations since adaptations can be applied immediately before a program phase change. To this end we present the first analysis of prediction for power management under SYSMark2007. Compared to traditional scientific/computing benchmarks, this workload demonstrates more complex core active and idle behavior. We analyze a table based predictor on a quad-core processor. We present an accurate runtime power model that accounts for fine-grain temperature and voltage variation. By predictively borrowing power from cores, our approach provides an average speedup of 7.3% in SYSMark2007.
Scalable Identification of Load Imbalance in Parallel Executions Using Call Path Profiles

Applications must scale well to make efficient use of today's class of petascale computers, which contain hundreds of thousands of processor cores. Inefficiencies that do not even appear in modest-scale executions can become major bottlenecks in large-scale executions. Because scaling problems are often difficult to diagnose, there is a critical need for scalable tools that guide scientists to the root causes of scaling problems. Load imbalance is one of the most common scaling problems. To provide actionable insight into load imbalance, we present post-mortem parallel analysis techniques for pinpointing and quantifying load imbalance in the context of call path profiles of parallel programs. We show how to identify load imbalance in its static and dynamic context by using only low-overhead asynchronous call path profiling to locate regions of code responsible for communication wait time in SPMD executions. We describe the implementation of these techniques within HPCTOOLKIT.
Radial Compression of Microtubules and the Mechanism of Action of Taxol and Associated Proteins

Microtubules (MTs) are hollow cylindrical polymers composed of αβ-tubulin heterodimers that align head-to-tail in the MT wall, forming linear protofilaments that interact laterally. We introduce a probe of the interprotofilament interactions within MTs and show that this technique gives insight into the mechanisms by which MT-associated proteins (MAPs) and taxol stabilize MTs. In addition, we present further measurements of the mechanical properties of MT walls, MT-MT interactions, and the entry of polymers into the MT lumen. These results are obtained from a synchrotron small angle x-ray diffraction (SAXRD) study of MTs under osmotic stress. Above a critical osmotic pressure, Pcr, we observe rectangular bundles of MTs whose cross sections have buckled to a noncircular shape; further increases in pressure continue to distort MTs elastically. The Pcr of ∼600 Pa provides, for the first time, a measure of the bending modulus of the interprotofilament bond within an MT. The presence of neuronal MAPs greatly increases Pcr, whereas surprisingly, the cancer chemotherapeutic drug taxol, which suppresses MT dynamics and inhibits MT depolymerization, does not affect the interprotofilament interactions. This SAXRD-osmotic stress technique, which has enabled measurements of the mechanical properties of MTs, should find broad application for studying interactions between MTs and of MTs with MAPs and MT-associated drugs.
Microscopic Study of Local Structure and Charge Distribution in Metallic La2CuO4+δ

We employ NMR and NQR spectroscopy as probes of local structure and charge environments in metallic La2CuO4+δ (Tc = 38 K). We discuss the effect of annealing the sample at various temperatures T a (T c < T a < 300 K) on the superconducting T c. The dependence of T c on T a indicates that annealing allows the development of structural order which is important for T c. The 139La quadrupole frequency VQ in the in metallic phase is smaller than in the undoped material. This is unexpected and may indicate a smaller charge on the apex oxygen in the doped material and thus a different distribution of charge between the La-O layer and the planes. We find that the presence of doped holes induces a distribution of displacements of the apex oxygen off of the vertical La-Cu bond axis. The distribution in displacements extends from zero to the value observed in lightly doped (antiferromagnetic) La2CuO4+δ . This directly demonstrates considerable inhomogeneity in the crystal structure of the La-O layer. Copper NQR spectroscopy shows that there are two distinct copper sites in the CuO2 planes and thus that either the structure or the charge distribution in the planes is inhqmogeneous as well. These inhomogeneities are the intrinsic response of the crystal to doped holes; they are not the result of distortions of the lattice due to the presence of interstitial oxygen atoms.
Unusual cause of cholestatic jaundice in a patient with AIDS

A 61-year-old man with AIDS on chronic highly active antiretroviral treatment (HAART) presented with lethargy and jaundice and was found to have abnormal liver function tests (LFTs). Investigations including viral/autoimmune markers and imaging were unrevealing, except for positive Epstein-Barr virus. HAART was held, however, transaminases and total bilirubin continued to rise. The liver biopsy revealed classical Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL). HL presenting only with liver findings without lymphadenopathy is rare. Extreme cases can lead to fulminant liver failure. The bone marrow biopsy and dramatic elevation in serum ferritin were consistent with haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. Finding a chemotherapy regimen was challenging given abnormal LFTs and HAART interactions. Initial chemotherapy regimen has successfully decreased LFTs; however, it was limited by pancytopenia. The patient's regimen was changed, however second regimen was complicated by neuropathy. LFTs improved and the patient was able to receive the standard care chemotherapy for HL with significant clinical, laboratory and radiological improvement.
The Posterior Condylar Canal

PURPOSE To assess the prevalence and appearance of the posterior condylar canal using high-resolution CT. METHODS One hundred twenty-three high-resolution temporal bone CT examinations were retrospectively reviewed for the presence or absence of the posterior condylar canal. Thirty-four gross skulls were also examined. RESULTS The posterior condylar canal was identified on CT bilaterally in 31% of the final study group and unilaterally in 50%. On gross specimens, this structure was identified in 55.9% bilaterally and 17.6% unilaterally. The posterior condylar canal, when present, is readily identifiable in a predictable location. The imaging appearance of this structure is dependent on its relationship to the angle of scanning. CONCLUSION The posterior condylar canal is among the largest emissary foramina in the human skull. Recognition of this structure and its role as an alternative source of venous drainage from the brain will help avoid misinterpretation during CT examination.
Disorders of Higher Cortical Function

The chapter on higher cortical function starts with the major anatomic areas and divides the areas into three types: primary, secondary, and tertiary, based on their neuroanatomical interconnections and cellular structure. The asymmetry of brain and the importance of the left hemisphere in most individuals are discussed. Key tertiary areas that are important for complex perception, language, spatial skills, and executive functions such as problem solving and planning are discussed. The chapter explains the major types of aphasia, apraxia, amnesia, memory loss, and dysexecutive syndrome or ‘frontal lobe syndrome.’ The normal neurologic changes of aging and mild cognitive impairment follow. Finally, dementia and its types are covered with an emphasis on Alzheimer’s disease with attention to the pathophysiology, major clinical features, major laboratory findings, and principles of management and prognosis.
Auditory System II

The CNS circuitry that mediates auditory perception is very complex and is not completely understood. As in other sensory systems, there are parallel circuits that convey information about different features of the auditory environment (the axons that represent particular frequencies and the circuitry that is involved in sound location, for example), and a hierarchical organization so that information is conveyed from one synaptic station to the next in a sequence. Also, there are a large number of feedback pathways, so information flow along the central auditory circuits is gated by descending inputs. For the most part, these feedback pathways are not well understood and are mentioned only in passing.
Abstract W MP43: Platelet Testing is Associated With Worse Clinical Outcomes for Intracranial Aneurysm Patients Treated with the Pipeline Embolization Device

Objective: Controversy exists as to whether platelet inhibition testing is necessary prior to aneurysm treatment in patients premedicated with antiplatelet agents. Using the IntrePED (International Retrospective Study of Pipeline Embolization Device) registry, we studied complication rates in platelet-testing and non-platelet testing groups to determine if platelet testing is associated with improved outcomes. Materials and Methods: Patients with unruptured intracranial aneurysms from the INTREPED registry were divided into those who received platelet testing (testing group) and those who did not (nontesting group). Morbidity, mortality and thrombotic and hemorrhagic complication rates were studied. Comparisons between groups for continuous variables were evaluated using t -tests and Fisher’s exact test or Pearson’s chi-square for binary categorical variables. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to determine if platelet function testing was independently associated with poor outcomes adjusting for age, number of devices, aneurysm location, size, and use of multiple exchange wires. Results: When compared to the non-testing group, the platelet testing group suffered higher rates of ipsilateral intracranial hemorrhage (12/511, 2.3% versus 0/187, 0.0%, P=0.04), neurological morbidity (42/511, 8.2% versus 4/187, 2.1%, P=0.01), and combined neurological morbidity and mortality (45/511, 8.8% versus 6/187, 3.2%, P=0.01). More patients in the testing group were treated with multiple PEDs (228 patients, 38.1% versus 57 patients, 28.4%, P=0.01). On multivariate analysis, the platelet testing group had a higher odds of total major morbidity (OR=3.80, 95%CI=1.30=11.08, P=0.01) and total major morbidity and neurological mortality (OR=2.74, 95%CI=1.11-6.79). Conclusion: Our findings caution against blind acceptance of platelet testing in Pipeline patients. Further prospective studies are needed to determine if and when platelet testing in Pipeline patients is appropriate.
Desoxyribonuclease (DNA'ase) Activity of Rat Mammary Gland During Pregnancy and Lactation.∗†

SummaryDNA'ase activity was determined in late pregnancy and in early and late lactation in conjunction with measurement of acid-soluble nucleotides. DNA'ase activity was correlated with increased acid-soluble nucleotides during pregnancy and latter stages of lactation. There was, however, on first day of lactation an increase in enzyme activity and a decrease in acid-soluble nucleotides suggesting an increased catabolism of these products in early lactation for use in secretory process.
Demonstration of Semiochemically Induced Aggregation in the Green June Beetle, Cotinis nitida (L.) (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae)

A trapping study was conducted in an apple variety block to determine if feeding green June beetles (GJB), Cotinis nitida (L.) (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae), produce semiochemicals that induce their aggregation. Yellow baffle and funnel traps were baited with fruit only (ripe peach slices), three males and three females (no fruit), six males (fruit access blocked), six males (free access to fruit), six females (fruit access blocked), and six females (free access to fruit). Traps were arranged in a Latin cube design (six row × six column) and randomized daily for 6 d. Analysis of data showed that column, day, treatment, and day by treatment interaction were significant sources of variation ( P < 0.01). Males or females feeding on ripe peach attracted significantly higher numbers of male and female beetles than all other treatments (Waller-Duncan k -ratio t test, k = 100, P < 0.05).
Methoxychlor Residues on Vegetable Crops

Methoxychlor was applied to vegetables in small field plots at Beltsville, Md., at 1¾ pounds per acre in dusts and in wettable powder and emulsion sprays, and also at 3 or 3 pounds per acre in wettable-powder sprays. Residues determined at intervals appeared to justify a waiting period of only 1 day from last application to harvest, for summer and winter squash, cantaloupe, eggplant, pumpkin, peppers, tomatoes, Kohlrabi, turnip roots, and strawberries, at the present tolerance of 14 p.p.m. For okra a 1-day waiting period is needed, which would require a tolerance of 20 p.p.m., and for green onions 3 days, which would require a tolerance of 40 p.p.m.
Quality control in immunophenotyping: U.S. efforts to establish common methodology and their impact. American Society for Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics.

Several organizations in the United States have recently been involved in the quality assurance of immunophenotyping using flow cytometry. These activities include publication of guidelines for immunophenotyping, particularly in human immunodeficiency virus infection, performance evaluation and proficiency testing programs, and training and continuing education programs. Through questionnaires and results from performance evaluation programs, variability in test results has been decreasing the last few years, and more laboratories are beginning to use the same specimen processing and data analysis procedures.
Structural and Substituent Group Effects on Multielectron Standard Reduction Potentials of Aromatic N-Heterocycles.

Aromatic N-heterocycles have been used in electrochemical CO2 reduction, but their precise role is not yet fully understood. We used first-principles quantum chemistry to determine how the molecular sizes and substituent groups of these molecules affect their standard redox potentials involving various proton and electron transfers. We then use that data to generate molecular Pourbaix diagrams to find the electrochemical conditions at which the aromatic N-heterocycle molecules could participate in multiproton and electron shuttling in accordance with the Sabatier principle. While one-electron standard redox potentials for aromatic N-heterocycles can vary significantly with molecule size and the presence of substituent groups, the two-electron and two-proton standard redox potentials depend much less on structural modifications and substituent groups. This indicates that a wide variety of aromatic N-heterocycles can participate in proton, electron, and/or hydride shuttling under suitable electrochemical co...
T2-Imaging Changes in the Nigrosome-1 Relate to Clinical Measures of Parkinson's Disease.

Background: The nigrosome-1 region of the substantia nigra (SN) undergoes the greatest and earliest dopaminergic neuron loss in Parkinson’s disease (PD). As T2-weighted MRI scans are often collected with routine clinical MRI protocols, this investigation aims to determine whether T2-imaging changes in the nigrosome-1 are related to clinical measures of PD and to assess their potential as a more clinically accessible biomarker for PD. Methods: Voxel intensity ratios were calculated for T2-weighted MRI scans from 47 subjects from the Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI) database. Three approaches were used to delineate the SN and nigrosome-1: 1) manual segmentation, 2) automated segmentation and 3) area voxel-based morphometry. Voxel intensity ratios were calculated from voxel intensity values taken from the nigrosome-1 and two areas of the remaining SN. Linear regression analyses were conducted relating voxel intensity ratios with the Movement Disorder Society-Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS) sub-scores for each subject. Results: For manual segmentation, linear regression tests consistently identified the voxel-intensity ratio derived from the dorsolateral SN and nigrosome-1 (IR2) as predictive of nBehav (p= 0.0377) and nExp (p= 0.03856). For automated segmentation, linear regression tests identified IR2 as predictive of Subscore IA (nBehav) (p= 0.01134), Subscore IB (nExp) (p= 0.00336), Score II (mExp) (p= 0.02125) and Score III (mSign) (p= 0.008139). For the voxel-based morphometric approach, univariate simple linear regression analysis identified IR2 as yielding significant results for nBehav (p = 0.003102), mExp (p = 0.0172), and mSign (p = 0.00393). Conclusions: Neuroimaging biomarkers may be used as a proxy of changes in the nigrosome-1, measured by MDS-UPDRS scores as an indicator of the severity of PD. The voxel-intensity ratio derived from the dorsolateral SN and nigrosome-1 was consistently predictive of non-motor complex behaviors in all three analyses and predictive of non-motor experiences of daily living, motor experiences of daily living, and motor signs of PD in two of the three analyses. These results suggest that T2- changes in the nigrosome-1 may relate to certain clinical measures of PD. T2-changes in the nigrosome-1 may be considered when developing a more accessible clinical diagnostic tool for patients with suspected PD.
Brachial plexus reconstruction following resection of a malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor: case report.

Background and importance The main therapeutic approach for malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs) of the brachial plexus is wide local excision. Sacrifice of some--occasionally all--elements of the brachial plexus often is required to obtain complete resection, and therefore can be associated with significant morbidity. While peripheral nerve repair is commonly used in the setting of traumatic nerve injury, little is known about its potential use in the treatment of MPNST. Clinical presentation We present a patient with an enlarging right neck mass who was diagnosed with MPNST of the brachial plexus. The patient underwent gross total resection of the tumor, requiring sectioning of the upper trunk of the brachial plexus, as well as associated divisions. Following resection, sural nerve grafts were used to connect the C5 nerve root to the anterior division of the upper trunk and the spinal accessory nerve to the suprascapular nerve, whereas a triceps branch of the radial nerve was coapted directly to the anterior division of the axillary nerve. Conclusion By 20 months after surgery, the patient had regained significant strength in her upper trunk distribution and demonstrated no evidence of tumor recurrence. Brachial plexus reconstruction offers a potentially valuable surgical adjunct to MPNST treatment.
Disparities in access to dental care appointments among head and neck cancer patients.

e17019 Background: Pre-radiation dental care is a critical component of head and neck cancer (HNC) treatment, but is not always covered by health insurance. Even if covered, the extent to which den...
Short combinatorial proof that the DFJ polytope is contained in the MTZ polytope for the Asymmetric Traveling Salesman Problem

Abstract For the Asymmetric Traveling Salesman Problem (ATSP), it is known that the Dantzig–Fulkerson–Johnson (DFJ) polytope is contained in the Miller–Tucker–Zemlin (MTZ) polytope. The analytic proofs of this fact are quite long. Here, we present a proof which is combinatorial and significantly shorter by relating the formulation to distances in a modified graph.
Large-Eddy Simulation of Flow over a Wall-Mounted Hump with Separation and Reattachment

Wall-resolved large-eddy simulation of a model turbulent flow involving favorable and adverse pressure gradients, imposed by surface curvature of a wall-mounted hump, is performed for a spanwise-pe...
Finite horizon planning with fixed-interval deliveries and no shortage

The ordering policy of raw materials and the manufacturing batch size for frequent deliveries of finished goods over a finite horizon play a significant role in managing the supply chain logistics economically. This research develops an ordering policy for raw materials and determines an economic batch size in a manufacturing system that supplies finished products to customers over a finite planning horizon. Fixed quantities of finished products are delivered to customers at a fixed interval of time. In this model, an optimal multi-ordering policy for procurement of raw materials and production cycle time for a production and supply system is developed to minimize the total cost incurred due to raw materials and finished goods inventories. A closed-form solution to the problem is obtained for the minimal total cost. A lower bound on the optimal solution is developed for the problem and the empirical tests indicate that the lower bounds are very close to the solution.
LPV Modeling and Control for Active Flutter Suppression of a Smart Airfoil

In this paper, a novel technique of linear parameter varying (LPV) modeling and control of a smart airfoil for active flutter suppression is proposed, where the smart airfoil has a groove along its chord and contains a moving mass that is used to control the airfoil pitching and plunging motions. The new LPV modeling technique is proposed that uses mass position as a scheduling parameter to describe the physical constraint of the moving mass, in addition the hard constraint at the boundaries is realized by proper selection of the parameter varying function. Therefore, the position of the moving mass and the free stream airspeed are considered the scheduling parameters in the study. A state-feedback based LPV gain-scheduling controller with guaranteed H infinity performance is presented by utilizing the dynamics of the moving mass as scheduling parameter at a given airspeed. The numerical simulations demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed LPV control architecture by significantly improving the performance while reducing the control effort.
Cross talk between the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway and the androgen receptor in hormone dependent prostate cancer and its implication in the progression to androgen independence

2516 Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed non-skin malignancy and the second leading cause of cancer related deaths in US men. The majority of patients present with localized hormone dependent disease. Following progression or in those presenting with regional or metastatic disease, androgen ablation is often temporally successful in preventing or delaying progression of disease. However, approximately 70% of patients’ eventually progress to hormone refractory prostate cancer (HRPC). Multiple mechanisms of progression to HRPC have been proposed including mutations in the androgen receptor (AR), over-expression of AR and promiscuous activation via growth factor signaling pathways. Previously presented data demonstrates the activation of both the PI3K/Akt/mTOR and AR pathways in a hormone dependent prostate cancer model (LNCaP cells). In the current studies, we have shown that HRPC models have significantly increased activation of the mTOR pathway compared to hormone dependent LNCaP models. We have also identified a compensatory signaling mechanism and cross-talk pathway between AR and PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway using co-immunoprecipitation of Akt and AR. Inhibition of mTOR via Rapamycin and RAD-001 resulted in decreased p-mTOR (Ser2448) and a 40% increase of AR protein expression at 1 hour in treated cell lysates. RAD-001 has similar properties to rapamycin, though it is more potent (IC50=54pM) in hormone dependent prostate cancer cells. RAD-001 also significantly increased (4 fold) androgen regulated promoter activation compared to vehicle treated controls. Competitive binding studies have shown no significant changes in binding to the AR, confirming RAD-001 does not bind to the AR and is not agonistic. Combination treatment with VN/124-1, a novel anti-androgen synthesized in our lab, and RAD-001 demonstrated significant inhibition of cell proliferation in a HRPC model. Increased activation of p-mTOR in HRPC models as well as compensatory signaling and cross-talk mechanisms between the AR and mTOR pathways in hormone dependent prostate cancer models provide compelling evidence to implicate this pathway as a mechanism in the progression to HRPC. A better understanding of the mechanisms of disease progression will allow for the development of targeted treatments that may delay, re-sensitize or prevent HRPC.
Can we make sense of subjective experience in metabolically situated cognitive processes

In “Mind, matter and metabolism,” Godfrey-Smith’s objective is to “develop a picture” in which, first, the basis of living activity in physical processes “makes sense,” second, the basis of proto-cognitive activity in living activity “makes sense” and third, “the basis of subjective experience in metabolically situated cognitive processes also makes sense.” show that he fails to attain all three of these objectives, largely owing to the nature and modularization of metabolism.
High-coverage, unbounded sound predictive race detection

Dynamic program analysis can predict data races knowable from an observed execution, but existing predictive analyses either miss races or cannot analyze full program executions. This paper presents Vindicator, a novel, sound (no false races) predictive approach that finds more data races than existing predictive approaches. Vindicator achieves high coverage by using a new, efficient analysis that finds all possible predictable races but may detect false races. Vindicator ensures soundness using a novel algorithm that checks each potential race to determine whether it is a true predictable race. An evaluation using large Java programs shows that Vindicator finds hard-to-detect predictable races that existing sound predictive analyses miss, at a comparable performance cost.
Delaware Inland Bays and Market Oyster (Crassostrea virginica) Quality for Consumption

Consumption of raw oysters is known to cause serious health conditions due to bioaccumulation of contaminants. As filter feeders, oysters ingest bacteria along with phytoplankton from their surrounding habitats. Ensuring seafood safety for human consumption is always a concern. Since oysters are consumed raw, disease causing organisms, environmental contaminants, toxins, chemicals, and even physical hazards such as soils and metals retained in the oysters can enter through feeding. The objective of this study was to determine the quality of oysters collected from Delaware Inland Bays (DIB) and compare them with market oysters. Environmental parameters were monitored from local waters of DIB classified as closed versus open for shellfish harvesting. Total aerobic bacteria and vibrio were higher in market oysters during the warmer months, with open water having the least microbial loads. There were no significant differences in total vibrio counts between the study sites ( ), but significant differences were recorded over time ( ). Water temperature and turbidity were directly proportional to total vibrio in oysters, and salinity was inversely related. Research findings in this study may help bring awareness of changes in bacterial loads due to seasonal changes and additional handling and storage.
LIVING SYSTEMS AS ENERGY CONVERTERS : Energy in biological molecules: Report on session of Monday 18 October

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses energy in biological molecules. Living cells can maintain their complexity and order only at the expense of free energy from their environment. Cells utilize free or high-grade energy from the environment and then return to it an equal amount of low-grade energy, largely heat, which becomes randomized in the environment. Living organisms, thus, maintain their order at the expense of their environment, which they cause to become more and more random with time. Ultimately, the form of free energy that sustains all life, whether plant or animal, is solar light energy. This chapter describes the conversion of energy by the living systems. It presents a general introduction to the science of bioenergetics and discusses research on the evolution, structure, and function of some of the important biocatalysts involved in energy conversion by living cells. The chapter also discusses some practical implications of such basic research in approaching the energy problem.
Epidemiology and Clinical Diagnosis: Alzheimer Disease

The initial preclinical phase of Alzheimer disease (AD), which has no symptoms, is followed by a phase whereby cognitive impairment, but no functional impairment is present (mild cognitive impairment), after which comes the third phase of dementia. Diagnosis of AD has primarily been one of exclusion of all other causes of reversible and irreversible dementia. Overlapping clinical presentations of diseases causing neurodegeneration, however, create challenges for accurate diagnosis. Algorithms are provided for the most current guidelines. Use of clinical magnetic resonance and PET imaging modalities increase the specificity of diagnosis, and several new promising experimental approaches are being developed.
Assessing the feasibility of parent participation in a commercial weight loss program to improve child body mass index and weight-related health behaviors.

Objectives:Little is known about how children’s health might be affected by parents’ participation in commercial weight loss programs. Given that more than 3.2 million people subscribe to just one ...
Investigation of Scaling and Inhibition Mechanisms and the Influencing Factors in Static and Dynamic Inhibition Tests

This paper presents results of some recent laboratory study on barium sulfate scale inhibition in oilfield brines and investigation of several factors potentially effecting scale inhibition efficiency. In addition to well known mechanisms of scale nucleation inhibition and crystal growth retardation, dispersion/anti-conglomeration appears to be a significant inhibition mechanism associated with some scale inhibitors, which may play an important role in a dynamic flowing system. The contamination of a brine by an organic chelating agent such as EDTA or citric acid did not, in this study, show any significant effect on the barium sulfate inhibition efficiency of any of the three generically different scale inhibitors included. Experiments show that, in a properly enclosed system, the pH of an oilfield brine even with hydrogen bicarbonate presence can be sufficiently buffered with acetic acid. These new results are believed to be useful in evaluating/selecting scale inhibitors and improving barium sulfate scale inhibition test methods.
Historical Trends in Concerns About Social Issues Across Four Decades Among U.S. Adolescents.

This study examined adolescents' concerns about social issues and how these concerns have changed over historical time. Separate cohorts of U.S. high school seniors (N = 110,953; 51.1% female) reported their worries about four social issues (crime/violence, economic problems, hunger/poverty, race relations) every year from 1976 to 2015. Youth were most concerned with crime/violence, followed by economic problems, hunger/poverty, and race relations. Adolescents' social concerns varied by demographic characteristics and cohort, paralleling specific historical events and appearing responsive to the political challenges of the time. Initiatives seeking to engage youth within the political process may benefit from providing opportunities for teens to participate in civic activities aimed to address these issues.
Effects of Dietary Protein Quantity on Bone Quantity following Weight Loss: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Research supports the hypothesis that higher total protein intake during weight loss promotes retention of lean soft tissue, but the effect of dietary protein quantity on bone mass, a lean hard tissue, is inconsistent. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the effect of dietary protein quantity [higher protein (HP): ≥25% of energy from protein or ≥1.0 g · kg body wt-1 · d-1; normal protein (NP): <25% of energy from protein or <1.0 g · kg body wt-1 · d-1] on changes in bone mineral density (BMD) and content (BMC; total body, lumbar spine, total hip, femoral neck) following a prescribed energy restriction. We hypothesized that an HP diet would attenuate the loss of BMD/BMC following weight loss in comparison to an NP diet. Two researchers systematically and independently screened 2366 publications from PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus, CINAHL, and Web of Science Core Collection and extracted data from 34 qualified publications. Inclusion criteria included the following: 1) healthy subjects ≥19 y; 2) a prescribed energy restriction; 3) measurements of total protein intake, BMD, and BMC; and 4) an intervention duration of ≥3 mo. Data from 10 of the 34 publications with 2 groups of different total protein intakes were extracted and used to conduct a random-effects model meta-analysis. A majority of publications (59%) showed a decrease in bone quantity following active weight loss, regardless of total protein intake. Statistically, the loss of total BMD (P = 0.016; weighted mean difference: +0.006 g/cm2; 95% CI: 0, 0.011 g/cm2) and lumbar spine BMD (P = 0.019; weighted mean difference: +0.017 g/cm2; 95% CI: 0.001, 0.033 g/cm2) was attenuated with an HP versus an NP weight-loss diet. However, the clinical significance is questionable given the modest weighted mean difference and study duration. Higher total protein intake does not exacerbate but may attenuate the loss of bone quantity following weight loss.
Dismantling a world: France’s monumental military heritage in Sidi-Bel-Abbès, Algeria

The history of France’s war memorials is a much-studied domain of scholarly inquiry. According to historian Antoine Prost, constructing monuments on a grand scale to commemorate wars was a response...
Causes for the Century-Long Decline in Colorado River Flow

AbstractUpper Colorado River basin streamflow has declined by roughly 20% over the last century of the instrumental period, based on estimates of naturalized flow above Lees Ferry. Here we assess f...