cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Pontryagin Maximum Principle for Systems of Flows

We present a generalization of the Pontryagin Maximum Principle, in which the usual adjoint equation, which contains derivatives of the system vector fields with respect to the state, is replaced by an integrated form, containing only differentials of the reference flow maps. In this form, the conditions of the maximum principle make sense for a number of control dynamical laws whose right-hand side can be nonsmooth, nonlip-schitz, and even discontinuous. The “adjoint vectors” that are solutions of the “adjoint equation” no longer need to be absolutely continuous, and may be discontinuous and unbounded. We illustrate this with two examples: the “reflected brachistochrone problem” (RBP), and the derivation of Snell’s law of refraction from Fermat’s minimum time principle. In the RBP, where the dynamical law is Holder continuous with exponent 1/2, the adjoint vector turns out to have a singularity, in which one of the components goes to infinity from both sides, at an interior point of the interval of definition of the reference trajectory. In the refraction problem, where the dynamical law is discontinuous, the adjoint vector is bounded but has a jump discontinuity.
Ramsey Numbers Involving Cycles

There is a vast amount of literature on Ramsey-type problems starting in 1930 with the original paper of Ramsey [Ram]. Graham, Rothschild and Spencer in their book, Ramsey Theory [GRS] and Soifer in the 2009 The Mathematical Coloring Book, Mathematics of Coloring and the Colorful Life of Its Creators [Soi] present exciting developments in the history, results and people of Ramsey theory. The subject has grown amazingly, in particular with regard to asymptotic bounds for various types of Ramsey numbers (for example, see the survey papers [GrRo; Nes; ChGra2]), but the progress on evaluating the basic numbers themselves has been very unsatisfactory for a long time.
Disease, Behavior and Welfare

Animal behavior reflects animal health. In turn, health can be reflected in changes in behavior associated with illness as well as strategies used to prevent disease. In addition, a number of abnormal behaviors may be the only indicators of health problems. In other instances, medical cases present as if they were a primary behavioral problem. The brain, endocrine system, and behavior are so interrelated that little changes in one can have significant consequences on the other.
Sponge meadows and glass ramps: State shifts and regime change

Abstract Glass ramps are coastal marine sedimentation regimes of siliceous biomineralization, and present alternatives to carbonate or siliciclastic deposition. Prominent chert deposits around the world record glass ramps from the Eocene, Jurassic, Permian, and Mississippian. These events ranged from regional to continental scale, and lasted from a couple million years to over ten million years. This review compares established cases of glass ramp deposition to clarify the bio-depositional features that distinguish glass ramps from other bedded or mounded biosiliceous deposits, and from carbonate ramp regimes. It also compares environmental contexts of glass ramp initiation and persistence. The primary sediment on these glass ramps is disaggregated spicules of siliceous sponges. The sponges formed meadows on level-bottom inner- and mid-ramp settings, and loose spicules were redistributed along the shelf. Carbonate bioclasts were generally present but diluted by the great abundance of spicules. Carbonate factories were either limited to small, dense patches; moved offshore; or re-established at a later time. Glass ramps initiated in a wide variety of climates and oceanographic settings but appeared to initially require partial protection from storm energy. The importance of marine silicic acid for such widespread biosiliceous factories is also estimated, showing that glass ramps required long-term adjustments in silica supply. Glass ramps lack modern analogues, but their ecology can be interpreted in light of stable state dynamics in other modern invertebrate communities. It is suggested that siliceous sponge meadows were an alternate stable state locally on carbonate ramps, occurring with greater frequency and carrying greater ecological significance than have been previously expected. This model warrants additional scrutiny on sponge meadows' possible stabilizing feedbacks and on the thresholds of state switching.
Toll-like receptor agonists targeted to cancer cell metabolism

Imidazoquinoline Toll-Like Receptor (TLR) agonists such as Imiquimod are effective immunotherapeutics in the treatment of basal skin cell carcinoma, and more recently, melanoma. However, direct injection of imidazoquinoline TLR agonists causes systemic inflammation and autoimmune side-effects thereby limiting clinical use to topical applications. Here we use a metabolic caging strategy to confine the immunostimulatory effects of imidazoquinoline TLR agonists to tumor microenvironment. We have covalently attached a galactopyranoside metabolic cage to the primary amino group, critical for activity, of the TLR7 agonist Imiquimod. Addition of the metabolic cage abrogates TLR agonism as measured by NFκB transcription in RAW-Blue cells or inflammatory cytokines produced by primary murine Bone Marrow Derived Dendritic Cells (BMDCS). The galactopyranoside cage is efficiently removed via enzymatic cleavage from exogenously added β-galactosidase resulting in activation of immune cells that is comparable to native agonist. Enzymatic cleavage also occurs using β-galactosidase that is overexpressed in B16 melanoma cells. This results in increased immunostimulatory effects in co-cultures of BMDCs and B16 melanoma cells relative to BMDCs co-cultured with healthy melanocytes. We anticipate this will provide a general framework upon which TLR agonists can be targeted to the tumor microenvironment.
AlN-based hybrid thin films with self-assembled plasmonic Au and Ag nanoinclusions

Aluminum nitride (AlN)-based two-phase nanocomposite thin films with plasmonic Au and Ag nanoinclusions have been demonstrated using a one-step thin film growth method. Such AlN-based nanocomposites, while maintaining their wide bandgap semiconductor behavior, present tunable optical properties such as bandgap, plasmonic resonance, and complex dielectric function. Depending on the growth atmosphere, the metallic nanoinclusions self-organized into different geometries, such as nano-dendrites, nano-disks, and nanoparticles, providing enhanced optical anisotropy in-plane and out-of-plane. The infrared transmission measurements demonstrate the signature peaks of AlN as well as a broad transmission window attributed to the plasmonic nanoinclusions. This unique AlN-metal hybrid thin film platform provides a route to modulate the optical response of wide bandgap III-V nitride semiconductors towards infrared sensing or all optical based integrated circuits.
A Survey of the Freshwater Mussels (Mollusca: Bivalvia: Unionida) of the Niangua River Basin, Missouri

During 2007 and 2008, we surveyed freshwater mussels with timed searches at 35 sites in the Niangua River basin, an Osage River tributary in west-central Missouri. Our objective was to determine the distribution, species richness, and abundance of freshwater mussels in the basin. We observed a total of 714 live individuals from 20 species, including the Missouri endemic and species of conservation concern Lampsilis brittsi. The mean catch per unit effort (live mussels/person-hour) was 12 with values ranging from 0 to 144. Eurynia dilatata was the most abundant species (387 individuals observed, relative abundance = 54.2%), but all other species were present at much lower numbers. Eurynia dilatata and Venustaconcha ellipsiformis were the most commonly encountered species, both occurring at 24 sites. Our observation of 20 species is lower than historical richness in the basin (32 species), and nearly all species were formerly more widely distributed in the basin based on the occurrence of weathered and subfossil shells. Together with low catch per unit effort at most sites, these data suggest a sharp decline in mussel populations throughout the basin over the last few decades. This decline is cause for concern, but the causes are unknown.
The SDG Gender Equality Agenda and the Distribution of Land in Latin America (Agenda de gênero nos objetivos de desenvolvimento sustentável e a distribuição de terra na América Latina)

Among the advances in the 2030 Sustainable Development agenda is that the goal to achieve gender equality and empower women has nine specific targets. These focus on many of the root causes of gender inequality, including women’s unequal access to economic resources. This paper focuses specifically on women’s unequal access to ownership and control over land and the set of proposed indicators to measure progress. Drawing on the available data for Latin America, it demonstrates the current degree of inequality in the gender distribution of landholders and landowners, and why it is important that countries improve their gender statistics, collecting gender disaggregated data on both land ownership and agricultural decision-making. Entre os avancos na agenda de desenvolvimento sustentavel para 2030 e que o objetivo de alcancar a igualdade de genero e empoderar as mulheres tem nove alvos especificos. Estes enfocam muitas das causas basicas da desigualdade de genero, incluindo desigual acesso das mulheres aos recursos economicos. Este artigo enfoca especificamente o acesso desigual das mulheres a propriedade e ao controle sobre a terra e o conjunto de indicadores propostos para medir o progresso. Baseando-se nos dados disponiveis para a America Latina, demonstra o grau atual de desigualdade na distribuicao dos posseiros e proprietarios e os agricultores por sexo, e por que e importante que os paises melhorem suas estatisticas de genero, coletando dados desagregados sobre a posse da terra e a tomada de decisoes agricola.
Effects of a conducting sphere moving through a gradient magnetic field.

We examine several conducting spheres moving through a magnetic field gradient. An analytical approximation is derived and an experiment is conducted to verify the analytical solution. The experiment is simulated as well to produce a numerical result. Both the low and high magnetic Reynolds number regimes are studied. Deformation of the sphere is noted in the high Reynolds number case. It is suggested that this deformation effect could be useful for designing or enhancing present protection systems against space debris.
Reward, Relief and Habit Drinking: Initial Validation of a Brief Assessment Tool.

Aims Alcohol use disorder is highly heterogeneous. One approach to understanding this heterogeneity is the identification of drinker subtypes. A candidate classification consists of reward and relief subtypes. The current study examines a novel self-report measure of reward, relief, and habit drinking for its clinical correlates and subjective response (SR) to alcohol administration. Methods Non-treatment-seeking heavy drinkers (n = 140) completed the brief reward, relief, habit drinking scale (RRHDS). A subset of this sample (n = 67) completed an intravenous alcohol administration. Individuals were classified into drinker subtypes. A crowdsourced sample of heavy drinkers (n = 187) completed the RRHDS and a validated reward relief drinking scale to compare drinking classification results. Results The majority of the sample was classified as reward drinkers (n = 100), with fewer classified as relief (n = 19) and habit (n = 21) drinkers. Relief and habit drinkers reported greater tonic alcohol craving compared to reward drinkers. Reward drinkers endorsed drinking for enhancement, while relief drinkers endorsed drinking for coping. Regarding the alcohol administration, the groups differed in negative mood, such that relief/habit drinkers reported a decrease in negative mood during alcohol administration, compared to reward drinkers. The follow-up crowdsourcing study found a 62% agreement in reward drinker classification between measures and replicated the tonic craving findings. Conclusions Our findings suggest that reward drinkers are dissociable from relief/habit drinkers using the brief measure. However, relief and habit drinkers were not successfully differentiated, which suggests that these constructs may overlap phenotypically. Notably, measures of dysphoric mood were better at detecting group differences than measures capturing alcohol's rewarding effects.
Conversion of phosphoenolpyruvate to pyruvate in Thermoanaerobacterium saccharolyticum.

Thermoanaerobacterium saccharolyticum is an anaerobic thermophile that can ferment hemicellulose to produce biofuels, such as ethanol. It has been engineered to produce ethanol at high yield and titer. T. saccharolyticum uses the Embden-Meyerhof-Parnas (EMP) pathway for glycolysis. However, the genes and enzymes used in each step of the EMP pathway in T. saccharolyticum are not completely known. In T. saccharolyticum, both pyruvate kinase (PYK) and pyruvate phosphate dikinase (PPDK) are highly expressed based on transcriptomic and proteomic data. Both enzymes catalyze the formation of pyruvate from phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP). PYK is typically the last step of EMP glycolysis pathway while PPDK is reversible and is found mostly in C4 plants and some microorganisms. It is not clear what role PYK and PPDK play in T. saccharolyticum metabolism and fermentation pathways and whether both are necessary. In this study we deleted the ppdk gene in wild type and homoethanologen strains of T. saccharolyticum and showed that it is not essential for growth or ethanol production.
Landscape Drivers of Dynamic Change in Water Quality of U.S. Rivers

Water security is a top concern for social well-being, and dramatic changes in the availability of freshwater have occurred as a result of human uses and landscape management. Elevated nutrient loa...
A Machine Learning-based Approach to Predict the Aggregate Flexibility of HVAC Systems

Use of renewable energy resources can play a significant role in mitigation of climate change since they reduce the dependency on fossil fuels. However, high penetration of renewable energy resources into the power grid may cause some reliability problems. Ancillary services are key to realize the potential of renewable resources without disturbing the grid reliability. In recent years, many control approaches focused on exploiting the aggregate flexible heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) loads of buildings. However, there are still research gaps in assessing in advance the resulting indoor temperature responses for given total power and weather profiles before implementing the controls in the buildings. Such an assessment is critical to guarantee satisfying both the grid related objective (reliability) and the building related objective (occupants' comfort). Towards addressing this research gap, this paper presents a machine-learning approach for predicting the ratings of indoor temperature responses. In this approach, a prediction model was developed using a dataset generated by a set of model-free control simulations. The developed model achieved high prediction accuracy and showed the potential of the proposed approach.
Public Service Motivation Among Nonprofit Board Members and the Influence of Primary Sector of Employment

Although considerable research has developed exploring effective management of nonprofit boards of directors, there is limited understanding of the motivations of nonprofit board members to serve o...
MUC4 expression at the apical surfaces of endothelial cells: A new contributor to the cell surface properties of blood vessels

4943 MUC4 is a heterodimeric membrane mucin, composed of a mucin subunit ASGP-1 and a transmembrane subunit ASGP-2, which has been implicated in the protection of epithelial cell surfaces. Surprisingly, development and characterization of a new monoclonal antibody, called 1G8, against ASGP-2 demonstrated by immunohistochemistry the presence of MUC4 at the luminal surfaces of blood vessels of both normal tissues and tumors. Immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry of airway tissues using three different antibodies showed the expression of similar levels of MUC4 in both epithelial and endothelial cells. This expression of MUC4 in endothelial cells was confirmed by immunoblotting with 1G8 in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), human iliac artery endothelial cells and human microvascular endothelial cells. MUC4 could be observed on HUVECs grown on either plastic or Matrigel. In the latter the endothelial cells form cords, and the MUC4 co-localizes with the endothelial marker von Willebrand factor III. Finally, MUC4 expression in the three types of endothelial cell lines was confirmed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. These results provide, to our knowledge, the first demonstration of a member of the MUC gene family and membrane mucin in blood vessels. As a luminal surface component the MUC4 is situated to contribute to the non-adhesive luminal surface and to act as an intrinsic protection and survival factor, as proposed for epithelia.
Designing the Best Solution for Retirement

In March 2020, Robert Powell, Retirement Management Journal editor-in-chief; Zvi Bodie, PhD, president of Bodie Associates and the Norman and Adele Barron Professor Emeritus of Management at Boston University; and Stacy Schaus, founder and chief executive officer of Schaus Group LLC, spoke with Merton about retirement solutions for the twenty-first century working and middle classes, fintech, and solving for the right problems.
Large Scale Multi-Period Optimal Power Flow with Energy Storage Systems Using Differential Dynamic Programmingind

With the increased penetration of renewable sources, power grids are becoming stressed due to fluctuating generation. To alleviate stress from inconsistent sources, utilities employ energy storage systems alongside renewable sources and rely on dispatching synchronous generators. However, optimal dispatch of such devices is limited by traditional AC optimal power flow methods that do not account for time-dependent constraints, such as the state of charge of energy storage systems and generator ramping constraints. Multi-period optimal power flow is proposed as a large non-convex non-linear problem to optimally dispatch and control generators and energy storage elements across multiple time periods. In this paper, we introduce a scalable, robust framework to solve multi-period optimal power flow using a differential dynamic programming scheme that makes it capable of scaling to large systems containing energy storage devices. We demonstrate the efficacy of this solution by optimizing the SyntheticUSA testcase over a set of time periods. A robust homotopy method is applied to achieve fast simulation times that can be parallelized for further improvements.
Automatic segmentation of peripheral arteries and veins in ferumoxytol-enhanced MR angiography.

PURPOSE: To automate the segmentation of the peripheral arteries and veins in the lower extremities based on ferumoxytol-enhanced MR angiography (FE-MRA). METHODS: Our automated pipeline has 2 sequential stages. In the first stage, we used a 3D U-Net with local attention gates, which was trained based on a combination of the Focal Tversky loss with region mutual loss under a deep supervision mechanism to segment the vasculature from the high-resolution FE-MRA datasets. In the second stage, we used time-resolved images to separate the arteries from the veins. Because the ultimate segmentation quality of the arteries and veins relies on the performance of the first stage, we thoroughly evaluated the different aspects of the segmentation network and compared its performance in blood vessel segmentation with currently accepted state-of-the-art networks, including Volumetric-Net, DeepVesselNet-FCN, and Uception. RESULTS: We achieved a competitive F1 = 0.8087 and recall = 0.8410 for blood vessel segmentation compared with F1 = (0.7604, 0.7573, 0.7651) and recall = (0.7791, 0.7570, 0.7774) obtained with Volumetric-Net, DeepVesselNet-FCN, and Uception. For the artery and vein separation stage, we achieved F1 = (0.8274/0.7863) in the calf region, which is the most challenging region in peripheral arteries and veins segmentation. CONCLUSION: Our pipeline is capable of fully automatic vessel segmentation based on FE-MRA without need for human interaction in <4 min. This method improves upon manual segmentation by radiologists, which routinely takes several hours.
Changes in PHQ-9 depression scores in acute stroke patients shortly after returning home.

Introduction Post-stroke depression is a disabling condition that occurs in approximately one-third of stroke survivors. There is limited information on changes in depressive symptoms shortly after stroke survivors return home. To identify factors associated with changes in post-stroke depressive symptoms during the early recovery period, we conducted a secondary analysis of patients enrolled in a clinical trial conducted during the transition period shortly after patients returned home (MISTT). Methods The Michigan Stroke Transitions Trial (MISTT) tested the efficacy of social worker case management and access to online information to improve patient-reported outcomes following an acute stroke. Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) scores were collected via telephone interviews conducted at 7 and 90 days post-discharge; higher scores indicate more depressive symptoms. Generalized estimating equations were used to identify independent predictors of baseline PHQ-9 score at 7 days and of changes over time to 90 days. Results Of 265 patients, 193 and 185 completed the PHQ-9 survey at 7 and 90 days, respectively. The mean PHQ-9 score was 5.9 at 7 days and 5.1 at 90 days. Older age, being unmarried, and having moderate stroke severity (versus mild) were significantly associated with lower 7-day PHQ-9 scores (indicating fewer depressive symptoms). However, at 90 days, both unmarried patients and those with moderate or high stroke severity had significant increases in depressive symptoms over time. Conclusions In stroke patients who recently returned home, both marital status and stroke severity were associated with depressive symptom scores; however, the relationships were complex. Being unmarried and having higher stroke severity was associated with fewer depressive symptoms at baseline, but both factors were associated with worsening depressive symptoms over time. Identifying risk factors for changes in depressive symptoms may help guide effective management strategies during the early recovery period.
Periarticular Local Infiltrative Anesthesia and Regional Adductor Canal Block Provide Equivalent Pain Relief After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.

Abstract Purpose To compare postoperative pain and recovery after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) in patients who received an adductor canal block (ACB) or periarticular local infiltrative anesthesia (LIA). Methods A retrospective review of a prospectively collected ACL registry was performed. Patients underwent ACLR at a single institution between January 2015 and September 2020 and received long-acting local anesthesia with a pre-operative ultrasound-guided ACB or peri-articular LIA after surgery. Visual Analog Scale (VAS) pain scores, milligram morphine equivalents (MME) consumed in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU), and total hospital recovery time were compared. Univariate analysis was used to compare VAS pain and MME totals between overall groups and groups propensity score matched for age, sex, BMI, graft type, and meniscal treatment. Results are presented as mean(95%CI) unless otherwise indicated. Results There were 265 knees (253 patients) included (LIA, 157 knees; ACB, 108 knees). Overall, VAS pain scores before hospital discharge (LIA 2.6 (2.4-2.8) vs. ACB 2.4 (2.1-2.7), p=0.334) and total MMEs were similar (LIA 17.6 (16.4-18.8) vs. ACB 18.5 (17.2-19.8) (MME), p=0.134). Median time to discharge also did not significantly differ (LIA 137.5 (IQR:116-178) vs. ACB 147 (IQR:123-183) (min), p=0.118). Matched sub-analysis (LIA and ACB, n=94) did not reveal significant differences in VAS pain before discharge (LIA 2.4 (2.1-2.7) vs ACB: 2.7 (2.4-3.0), p=0.134) or total MMEs (LIA 18.6 (17.2-20.0) vs. ACB 17.9 (16.4-19.4), p=0.520). Conclusion The use of ACB or LIA resulted in similar early pain levels, opioid consumption, and hospital recovery times after ACLR surgery.
Defining Image Size and Spatial Resolution

In the previous chapter, we gained an understanding of how the MR signal that comes, of course, from the entire slice can be localized to individual locations along the length and width of that slice. It might seem that the number of locations, determined by the number of phase- and frequency-encoding steps, determines the spatial resolution of the image. This, however, is only partially true. As we defined in the very first chapter, spatial resolution is a function of voxel size. Voxel size is determined by not only the number of voxels in the image but also by the dimension of the image along which those voxels are arrayed. Two images of different size, but with the same number of voxels along each in-plane dimension, will have different voxel size and, therefore, different spatial resolution.
Two-step microalgal biodiesel production using acidic catalyst generated from pyrolysis-derived bio-char.

Abstract An efficient process for biodiesel production from fast-refined microalgal oil was demonstrated. A low cost catalyst prepared from pyrolysis-derived bio-char, was applied in pre-esterification to reduce free fatty acid (FFA) content. Results showed that the bio-char catalyst was highly active in esterification; however, the performance of the catalyst significantly reduced when crude microalgal oil was used as feedstock. To solve the problem caused by catalyst-fouling, a fast and scalable crude oil refinery procedure was carried out to remove chlorophyll and phospholipids that might degrade the catalyst and the quality of biodiesel. The activity and reusability of bio-char catalyst were remarkably improved in the fast-refined oil. FFA content in the refined microalgal oil was reduced to less than 0.5% after pre-esterification. The bio-char catalyst could be reused for 10 cycles without dramatic loss in activity. The pre-esterification fits the first-order kinetic reaction with activation energy of 42.16 kJ/mol. The activity of bio-char catalyst was superior to commercial Amberlyst-15 under the same reaction condition. A total fatty acid methyl ester (FAME, namely biodiesel) yield of 99% was obtained following the second-step CaO-catalyzed transesterification. The cost-effective bio-char catalyst has great potential for biodiesel production using feedstocks having high FFA content.
Oral antimicrobial use in outpatient cystic fibrosis pulmonary exacerbation management: a single‐center experience

Introduction Cystic Fibrosis pulmonary disease is characterized by intermittent episodes of acute lung symptoms known as “pulmonary exacerbations”. While exacerbations are classically treated with parenteral antimicrobials, oral antibiotics are often used in “mild” cases.
Human Resource Strategy, Entrepreneurial

The authors explore unique aspects of the entrepreneurial process as they relate to the need for tailored human resource management practices. It is argued that such practices must reflect differences in risk, knowledge attributes and resources constraints in a given venture. Limitations in the extant research and priorities for future research in this area are identified. Keywords: entrepreneurial venture; human resource management; knowledge attributes; resource constraints; risks
Cloning and expression in Escherichia coli of isopenicillin N synthetase genes from Streptomyces lipmanii and Aspergillus nidulans.

Abstract beta-Lactam antibiotics such as penicillins and cephalosporins are synthesized by a wide variety of microbes, including procaryotes and eucaryotes. Isopenicillin N synthetase catalyzes a key reaction in the biosynthetic pathway of penicillins and cephalosporins. The genes encoding this protein have previously been cloned from the filamentous fungi Cephalosporium acremonium and Penicillium chrysogenum and characterized. We have extended our analysis to the isopenicillin N synthetase genes from the fungus Aspergillus nidulans and the gram-positive procaryote Streptomyces lipmanii. The isopenicillin N synthetase genes from these organisms have been cloned and sequenced, and the proteins encoded by the open reading frames were expressed in Escherichia coli. Active isopenicillin N synthetase enzyme was recovered from extracts of E. coli cells prepared from cells containing each of the genes in expression vectors. The four isopenicillin N synthetase genes studied are closely related. Pairwise comparison of the DNA sequences showed between 62.5 and 75.7% identity; comparison of the predicted amino acid sequences showed between 53.9 and 80.6% identity. The close homology of the procaryotic and eucaryotic isopenicillin N synthetase genes suggests horizontal transfer of the genes during evolution.
On identification of partially known dynamic nonlinear systems with neural network

A method for incorporating a priori information about an uncertain nonlinear system into the structure of a multilayer feedforward artificial neural network is presented. The result is an improved identification model and controller structures suitable for nonlinear system identification and control applications. The known information is incorporated into the activation function of the network output layer. An algorithm is derived for backpropagating the error and updating adjustable parameters within this layer that is consistent with existing supervised learning techniques. The developed technique is applied to the
COMMENTARY. Effect of Whitening Dentifrices on the Surface Roughness of Commercial Composites

The authors of this article addressed a very current topic that deals with the surface characteristics of composite resin restorations when subjected to the inevitable daily exposure to toothbrush/toothpaste abrasion.This study was carefully designed and it was carried out with similar concern. It demonstrated that whitening toothpastes, generally more abrasive than regular dentifrices, cause greater surface changes to composite restorations.The wear pattern was cumulative and was shown to be progressively worse with the increased exposure time. However, contrary to what was expected, samples of a microhybrid composite resulted in rougher surfaces when compared with samples of a posterior hybrid composite after simulated 24 months of brushing.This goes against the evidence in the literature as similar studies have demonstrated that posterior hybrid composites are generally attributed to rougher surfaces.
Rigorous analog verification of asynchronous circuits

This thesis shows that rigorous verification of some analog implementation of any Quasi-Delay-Insensitive (QDI) asynchronous circuit is possible. That is, we show that in an accurate analog model, any behavior will adhere to the digital computation specifications under any possible noise and environment timing. Unlike a traditional simulation, we can analyze all of the infinitely many possible analog behaviors, in a time linear in the circuit size. A problem that arises in asynchronous circuit design is that he analog implementations of digital computations do not in general exhibit all properties demanded by the digital model assumed in circuit construction. For example, the digital model is atomic, in a sense we define. By contrast, analog models are non-atomic, and, as a result, we can give examples of real circuits with operational failures. There exist other attributes of analog models which can cause failures, and no complete classification exists. Ultimately there is only one way to solve this problem: we must show that all possible analog behaviors obey the atomic model. We focus on CMOS implementations, and the associated accepted bulk-scale model. Given any canonically-generated implementation of a general computation, we can rigorously verify it. The only exception to this rule is that restoring delay elements must be inserted into some implementations (fortunately, this change has no semantic effect on QDI circuits, by definition). Our theorem guarantees that when any possible analog behavior is properly observed, we obtain a valid, atomic digital execution. Several rigorous verifications have been produced, including one for an asynchronous pipeline circuit with dual-rail data.
Strengthening Al–Bi–TiC0.7N0.3 nanocomposites by Cu addition and grain refinement

Abstract Thermally stable nanoparticles are used to control Bi phase growth in immiscible Al–Bi alloy during solidification, producing Al-20Bi–TiC0.7N0.3 nanocomposites with homogeneously distributed Bi phases. Cu element and Al–5Ti–1B grain refiner were added to further strengthen the nanocomposite. Significant microhardness enhancement was achieved without deteriorating the distribution of Bi phase.
Requirement of HDAC6 for Transforming Growth Factor-β1-induced Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition

The aberrant expression of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 in the tumor microenvironment and fibrotic lesions plays a critical role in tumor progression and tissue fibrosis by inducing epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). EMT promotes tumor cell motility and invasiveness. How EMT affects motility and invasion is not well understood. Here we report that HDAC6 is a novel modulator of TGF-β1-induced EMT. HDAC6 is a microtubule-associated deacetylase that predominantly deacetylates nonhistone proteins, including α-tubulin, and regulates cell motility. We showed that TGF-β1-induced EMT is accompanied by HDAC6-dependent deacetylation of α-tubulin. Importantly, inhibition of HDAC6 by small interfering RNA or the small molecule inhibitor tubacin attenuated the TGF-β1-induced EMT markers, such as the aberrant expression of epithelial and mesenchymal peptides, as well as the formation of stress fibers. Reduced expression of HDAC6 also impaired the activation of SMAD3 in response to TGF-β1. Conversely, inhibition of SMAD3 activation substantially impaired HDAC6-dependent deacetylation of α-tubulin as well as the expression of EMT markers. These findings reveal a novel function of HDAC6 in EMT by intercepting the TGF-β-SMAD3 signaling cascade. Our results identify HDAC6 as a critical regulator of EMT and a potential therapeutic target against pathological EMT, a key event for tumor progression and fibrogenesis.
Efficient Approximate Techniques for Integrating Stochastic Differential Equations

Abstract The delicate (and computationally expensive) nature of stochastic numerical modeling naturally leads one to look for efficient and/or convenient methods for integrating stochastic differential equations. Concomitantly, one may wish to sensibly add stochastic terms to an existing deterministic model without having to rewrite that model. In this note, two possibilities in the context of the fourth-order Runge–Kutta (RK4) integration scheme are examined. The first approach entails a hybrid of deterministic and stochastic integration schemes. In these examples, the hybrid RK4 generates time series with the correct climatological probability distributions. However, it is doubtful that the resulting time series are approximate solutions to the stochastic equations at every time step. The second approach uses the standard RK4 integration method modified by appropriately scaling stochastic terms. This is shown to be a special case of the general stochastic Runge–Kutta schemes considered by Ruemelin and h...
Single and double ITCZ in an aqua-planet model with constant sea surface temperature and solar angle

It has been known for more than a decade that an aqua-planet model with a globally- and temporally-uniform sea surface temperature and solar isolation angle can generate intertropical convergence zones (ITCZ). Employing such a model, previous studies have shown that one of several means can be used to change between a single ITCZ over the equator and a double ITCZ straddling the equator. These means include switching to a different cumulus parametrization scheme, making changes within the cumulus parametrization scheme, and changing other aspects of the model such as horizontal resolution. Here, an interpretation of these findings is offered. In an aqua-planet model with globally and temporally uniform sea surface temperature and solar isolation angle, the latitudinal location of an ITCZ is the latitude where a balance exists between two types of attraction, both resulting from the Earth’s rotation. The first attraction pulls the ITCZ towards the equator and is not sensitive to changes in model design. It is directly related to the Coriolis parameter, which provides stability to the atmosphere. The second ssattraction pulls the ITCZ poleward and is sensitive to changes in model design. It is related to the convective circulation, modified by the Coriolis force. A balance between the two types of attraction is reached either at the equator or more than 10° north and south of the equator, depending on the shape and magnitude of the attractions. A balance at the equator yields a single ITCZ over the equator, whereas a balance north and south of the equator yields a double ITCZ straddling the equator.
Density functional theory studies on the relative reactivity of chloroethenes on zerovalent iron.

The gas-phase dissociation of perchloroethene (PCE), trichloroethene (TCE), and cis-dichloroethene (cis-DCE) on zerovalent iron Fe(110) was investigated using periodic density functional theory (DFT) with the generalized gradient approximation (GGA) and climbing image nudged elastic band method (CI-NEB). Activation energies and dechlorination rate constants for reductive β-elimination of the chloroethene compounds were calculated using an Arrhenius equation with theoretically calculated vibrational frequencies for the compounds. Activation energies were found to decrease as the chlorination number increases. The reaction rate-limiting step for PCE dissociation occurs at the second chlorine cleavage, while the rate-limiting steps for TCE and cis-DCE occur at the first chlorine cleavage. The activation energies of PCE, TCE, and cis-DCE at their rate-limiting steps are 9.9, 16.6, and 23.8 kJ/mol, respectively. Energy profiles along the reaction coordinate for the dechlorination paths are presented. The relat...
ULTRASONIC IMAGING OF BRAIN PARENCHYMA

Ultrasonic imaging has not been used for primary visualization of brain parenchyma in fetuses or neonates, although it is applied routinely for evaluation of ventricles (and other fluid collections) and for the detection of intracranial hemorrhage and neoplasms. We have begun investigating cerebal parenchymal appearance directly with a large aperture, dynamically focused array immaging system having improved signal to noise ratio and regional magnification features.
Hyperelastic Deformations of Smallest Total Energy

Throughout this article \({\mathbb X}\) and \({\mathbb Y}\) will be nonempty bounded domains in \({\mathbb {R}^n}\) , \({n \geqq 2}\) . The term deformation of \({{\mathbb X}\subset \mathbb {R}^n}\) onto \({{\mathbb Y}\subset \mathbb {R}^n}\) refers to an orientation preserving homeomorphism \({ h : {\mathbb X} \overset{\textnormal{\tiny{onto}}}{\longrightarrow} {\mathbb Y} }\) in the Sobolev class \({\fancyscript {W}^{1,1}} ({\mathbb X, {\mathbb Y})}\) whose inverse \({ f : {\mathbb Y} \overset{\textnormal{\tiny{onto}}}{\longrightarrow} {\mathbb X} }\) lies in \({{\fancyscript {W}^{1,1}} ({\mathbb Y, {\mathbb X})}}\) . The general law of hyperelasticity asserts that there exists an energy integral $${\mathcal E}_{_{\mathbb X}}[h]= \int_{\mathbb X} E(x,h,Dh)\, \rm dx$$ such that the elastic deformations have the smallest energy. We assume here that E is conformally coerced and polyconvex. Some additional regularity conditions are also imposed. Under those conditions we establish the existence and global invertibility of the minimizers. The key tools in obtaining an extremal deformation \({ h : {\mathbb X}\overset{\textnormal{\tiny{onto}}}{\longrightarrow} {\mathbb Y} }\) , regardless of its boundary values, are the free Lagrangians. Finding suitable free Lagrangians and using them for a specific stored-energy function E is truly a work of art. We have done it here for the so-called total harmonic energy and a pair of annuli in the plane. In fact this challenging problem illustrates rather clearly the strength of the concept of free Lagrangians.
The Relationship Between Orthopaedics and Industry Must Be Reformed

It is well-known that the long-standing relationship between orthopaedics and industry has benefited both parties. However, strong evidence indicates that the relationship is no longer a balanced one. Through a very effective stratagem, industry has used its enormous marketing power to a degree where the education of the orthopaedists now is, to a great degree, under its control and structured to satisfy its marketing needs. Orthopaedics' dependency on industry's support has resulted in our profession gradually abandoning its traditional values and ethical principles, and adopting those of the business community. This change is not in the best interest of medicine. The orthopaedic community, although striving to maintain a mutually productive relationship with industry, should forbid any intrusion into our autonomy in the areas of education and research.
Pharmacotherapy for obesity

Due to its serious comorbidities and high prevalence, obesity is one of the heaviest burdens for public health. Although diet, exercise and behavioral modification are the first-line treatment for obesity, their outcomes are not satisfactory. The goal of this article is to review currently available anti-obesity drugs so that physicians may apply the principle of pharmacologic treatment for obesity to obese patients in the real clinical situation. Orlistat, phentermine, diethylpropion, mazindol, and phendimetrazine have been approved as anti-obesity drugs by Korea food and drug administration and administered to patients in Korea. Besides, several non-approved drugs, including fluoxetine, bupropion, topiramate and zonisamide, are being used for weight reduction. Among these drugs, orlistat has been studied most and is the only approved drug for long-term weight management. On the other hand, the rest of the approved drugs lack the evidence of safety issues on the long-term administration. Considering that the non-approved drugs have only a small body of clinical trial results for their efficacy and safety as anti-obesity drugs, it is not appropriate to use them as a first-line therapy in obesity. Because several new medicines and combination therapies are under investigations, more drug therapy options seem to be available in this field in coming years. Although the properly executed pharmacologic treatment is a good option for weight reduction, physicians should recognize that diet, exercise, and behavioral modification are essential to all obese patient and that pharmacologic treatment has several limitations until now.
Sneddon's syndrome: another migraine–stroke association?

Sneddon's syndrome refers to the enigmatic association of ischaemic stroke and livedo reticularis. We review the Sneddon's syndrome literature examining the association of this condition with headache, including migraine. Case reports and series are stratified into two groups based on headache reference. In the group without a reference to headache, there are 208 persons, with a female to male ratio of 3 : 1. In the headache reference group, there are 175 persons, with a female to male ratio of 3.5 : 1. The proportion with headache in this second group is 58% (102 individuals), with headache described as migraine in 28 (27.5%) of the headache subjects, including six with migraine with aura. The frequency of headache is not significantly higher in persons with positive anti-phospholipid antibodies compared with the negative cohort (43% vs. 32%, P = 0.07). A review of the histopathological, radiological and serological data in Sneddon's syndrome and migraine underscores the plausibility of an association. Considered in the context of increased risk of stroke with migraine, a higher frequency of livedo in migraineurs with stroke, and the association of migraine and livedo reticularis, the question of whether livedo reticularis may be a risk marker for stroke in migraineurs is an area for further study.
Muscles across the elbow joint: A biomechanical analysis

Abstract In order to understand the mechanics of the human musculoskeletal system, quantitative data on the functional anatomy of the muscles related to the joint are necessary. Several important biomechanical parameters of the muscles controlling the elbow joint were determined. Serial cross-sectional anatomy analysis was used to obtain the centroid and thus the moment arms of each of the muscles along the upper arm and at the elbow joint. Muscle volume and true fiber length at the resting position were also measured. From these data, the physiological cross-sectional areas were calculated. The volume provided the information on the work capacity of the muscles. The physiological cross-sectional area provided the potential tension which the muscle can generate.
Poor Breath Sounds with Good Voice Sounds: A Sign of Bronchial Stenosis

The auscultatory finding of disparity in breath and voice sounds, the former being absent or faint whereas the latter are easily heard when compared to the corresponding site over the opposite lung, predicts stenosis of a main, intermediate, or lobar bronchus. Stenosis limits airflow and consequently reduces turbulence, causing diminution or absence of breath sounds over the poorly ventilated region; however, flow-independent voice sounds are not significantly impaired. This sign was present in ten patients, in each of whom bronchial stenosis was confirmed by bronchoscopy.
Cryptosporidium: Its biology and potential for environmental transmission

Protozoans of the genus Cryptosporidium are small (2 to 6 μm, depending on life cycle stage) coccidian parasites that reside within the microvillous region of the mucosal epithelium of man and a variety of animals. Infections with Cryptosporidium spp. were considered rare in animals, and in man they were thought to be the result of a little‐known opportunistic pathogen outside its normal host range. Our concept of Cryptosporidium has changed within the past 4 years to that of a significant and widespread cause of diarrheal illness in several animal species, especially calves and humans. In immunocompetent humans, this protozoan may produce a mild to severe diarrheal illness lasting from several days to more than 1 month. In immune‐deficient persons, especially those with the acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), cryptosporidiosis usually presents a prolonged, life‐threatening, cholera‐like illness. Treatment of cryptosporidiosis, especially in immune‐deficient persons, has been for the most part uns...
Permeability of polyethylene film to organic vapors

The permeabilities of polyethylene film to vapors of 19 organic compounds at temperatures of 21°C, 38°C, and 49°C were measured by a sorption method. The film was formed into a pouch, which was filled with silica gel, sealed, and suspended in a saturated atmosphere. The permeability was calculated from the steady-state rate of the gain in weight. The permeability data were correlated with the Hildebrand solubility parameters of the organic substances.