cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mitigating denial-of-service flooding attacks with source authentication

Denial-of-Service (DoS) flooding attacks have become a serious threat to the reliability of the Internet. For instance, a report published by Arbor Networks reveals that the largest DoS flooding attack observed in 2010 reaches 100Gbps in attack traffic volume. The defense against DoS flooding attacks is significantly complicated by the fact that the Internet lacks accountability at the network layer: it is very difficult, if not impossible, for the receiver of an IP packet to associate the packet with its real sender, as the sender is free to craft any part of the packet. This dissertation proposes to mitigate DoS flooding attacks with a two-step process: first to establish accountability at the network layer, and second to utilize the accountability to efficiently and scalably mitigate the attacks. It proposes Passport, a source authentication system that enables any router forwarding a packet to cryptographically verify the source Autonomous System (AS) of the packet. Passport uses symmetric key cryptography to enable high-speed verification and piggy-backs its key exchange into the inter-domain routing system for efficiency and independence from non-routing infrastructures. On top of Passport, this dissertation proposes NetFence, a DoS flooding attack mitigation system that provides two levels of protection against the attacks: if a victim can receive and identify the attack traffic, it can throttle the attack traffic close to the attack sources; otherwise, the attack traffic cannot be eliminated, but it would not be able to consume more than the attack sources' fair shares of the capacity of any bottleneck link. NetFence achieves its goals by putting unforgeable congestion policing feedback into each packet. The feedback allows bottleneck routers to convey congestion information back to the access routers that police the traffic accordingly. A destination host can throttle unwanted traffic by not returning the feedback to the source host. We have implemented prototypes of Passport and NetFence in both ns-2 simulator and Linux. We have also implement a prototype of Passport on a NetFPGA board. Our evaluation of the prototypes as well as our security and theoretical analysis demonstrate that both Passport and NetFence are practical for high-speed router implementation and could mitigate a wider range of attacks in a more scalable way compared to previous work.
Toxic Effects of Butylated Triphenyl Phosphate-based Hydraulic Fluid and Tricresyl Phosphate in Female F344 Rats

Triaryl phosphates, including tricresyl phosphate (TCP and butylated triphenyl phosphates (BTP), are used in the commercial manufacture of plastics, lubricants, and hydraulic fluids. Recent reports implicate these compounds as endocrine and reproductive toxicants that can cause cholesteryl lipidosis in adrenocortical (AC) and ovarian interstitial (OI) cells, suggesting altered metabolism of steroid hormones or cholesterol or of both. We investigated potential mechanisms of BTP and TCP toxicity to determine if there were functional abnormalities of the adrenal cortex or ovary. Groups of intact (nine or 12) and ovariectomized (six) female F344 rats, 10-12 weeks of age, received 0, 0.4 g/kg TCP, or 1.7 g/kg BTP in sesame oil vehicle or 1.7 g/kg neat BTP for 20, 40, or 60 days. All rats administered BTP and TCP developed cholesteryl lipidosis in AC and OI cells; the TCP-treated group was most severely affected. Serum concentrations of androstenedione and corticosterone were unchanged, but estradiol levels were significantly (P < or = 0.05) elevated in BTP- and TCP-treated groups (14.5 times and 37.5 times greater than controls, respectively). Vaginal cytology revealed that BTP- but not TCP-treated females had abnormal reproductive cycles that were significantly prolonged in diestrus (3 times greater than control). There were significant elevations in serum total cholesterol (TCP-treated group was 1.3 times greater than controls), low-density lipoprotein (TCP-treated group was 1.8 times greater than controls), alanine transaminase (BTP-treated group was 2 times greater than controls), and albumin (a major serum estradiol-binding protein; BTP-treated group was 4.6 g/dl vs. 3.6 g/dl for controls).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Organization and significance of neurons that detect change of visual depth in the hawk moth Manduca sexta.

Visual stimuli representing looming or receding objects can be decomposed into four parameters: change in luminance; increase or decrease of area; increase or decrease of object perimeter length; and motion of the object’s perimeter or edge. This paper describes intracellular recordings from visual neurons in the optic lobes of Manduca sexta that are selectively activated by certain of these parameters. Two classes of wide-field neurons have been identified that respond selectively to looming and receding stimuli. Class 1 cells respond to parameters of the image other than motion stimuli. They discriminate an approaching or receding disc from an outwardly or inwardly rotating spiral, being activated only by the disc and not by the spiral. Class 2 neurons respond to moving edges. They respond both to movement of the spiral and to an approaching or receding disc. These two classes are further subdivided into neurons that are excited by image expansion (looming) and are inhibited by image contraction (antilooming). Class 2 neurons also respond to horizontal and vertical movement of gratings over the retina. Stimulating class 1 and 2 neurons with white discs against a dark background results in the same activation as stimulation with dark discs against a white background, demonstrating that changes in luminance play no role in the detection of looming or antilooming. The present results show that the two types of looming-sensitive neurons in M. sexta use different mechanisms to detect the approach or retreat of an object. It is proposed that cardinal parameters for this are change of perimeter length detected by class 1 neurons and expansion or contraction visual flow fields detected by class 2 neurons. These two classes also differ with respect to their polarity, the former comprising centripetal cells from the optic lobes to the midbrain, the latter comprising centrifugal neurons from the midbrain to the optic lobes. The significance of these arrangements with respect to hovering flight is discussed. J. Comp. Neurol. 424:356‐376, 2000. © 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
A Partial Albino Hatchling Northern Ring-necked Snake, Diadophis punctatus edwardsii , from Big Tancook Island, Mahone Bay, Lunenburg County, Nova Scotia, Canada

On 10 June 2012 a sample of seven gravid female Northern Ring-necked Snakes ( Diadophis punctatus edwardsii ), from Big Tancook Island, Lunenburg County, Nova Scotia, was selected for a seasonal live display at the Nova Scotia Museum of Natural History in Halifax. A total of 13 eggs was removed from the display in late June 2012 and incubated for public viewing. The eggs began hatching on 22 August 2012. One of the hatchlings was partial albino (with zanthophores or amelanistic). This is the first record of an albinistic Northern Ring-necked Snake in Nova Scotia.
The Three-Center, Boron-Hydrogen-Metal, Coordinate Bond. Factors Influencing Bond Strength

Abstract The bridge bond is responsible for the formation of stable molecular structures such as that seen in Cl2Zn{B2H4 · 2P(CH3)3} and many related species. Factors involved in the stability of linkages are examined using the premise that the bond is a perturbed (polarized) sigma bond. The analysis relates the existence of these coordination compounds to the “agostic hydrogens” of organic chemistry.
Does assessing error in perceiving postural limits by testing functional reach predict likelihood of falls in hospitalized stroke patients

Objective: To investigate the relationship between errors in perceiving postural limits and falls in hospitalized hemiplegic patients and to determine whether this relationship is useful for identifying patients at high risk of falls.Design: Observational study.Subjects: Seventy-six hemiplegic patients who were admitted to a rehabilitation hospital.Methods: Error in perceiving postural limits was defined as the difference between the estimated maximum reach and actual reach distances, and its relationship to falls during hospitalization was investigated. Other measurements included Functional Ambulation Category, Brunnstrom's recovery stage, sensory disturbance, fear of falling and the Japanese version of the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS-J).Results: For the multiple fall group, the error in estimated distance (EED) was significantly greater than that for the zero/single fall group (P<0.01). Stepwise logistic regression analysis showed that EED (odds ratio 1.2, 95% confidence interval (...
Contemporary Japanese Attitudes toward Honorifics (keigo).

This article describes results from a subjective reaction test of Japanese speakers' attitudes toward keigo ‘polite language’. Hypotheses regarding attitudes toward “correct” language were for the most part verified, whereas attitudes toward “incorrect” forms were decidedly mixed. These results provide a first step in ascertaining attitudes toward a set of forms that are said to be in a state of flux in contemporary Japan. Also impinging on interpretation of the data are questions of descriptive terminology and culture. Such issues provide additional insight into the controversy within sociolinguistics over quantitative description and normative explanation.
Impact of transition metal on nitrogen retention and activity of iron–nitrogen–carbon oxygen reduction catalysts

Iron based nitrogen doped carbon (FeNC) catalysts are synthesized by high-pressure pyrolysis of carbon and melamine with varying amounts of iron acetate in a closed, constant-volume reactor. The optimum nominal amount of Fe (1.2 wt%) in FeNC catalysts is established through oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) polarization. Since the quantity of iron used in FeNCs is very small, the amount of Fe retained in FeNC catalysts after leaching is determined by UV-VIS spectroscopy. As nitrogen is considered to be a component of active sites, the amount of bulk and surface nitrogen retention in FeNC catalysts are measured using elemental analysis and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, respectively. It is found that increasing nominal Fe content in FeNC catalysts leads to a decreased level of nitrogen retention. Thermogravimetric analysis demonstrates that increasing nominal Fe content leads to increased weight loss during pyrolysis, particularly at high temperatures. Catalysts are also prepared in the absence of iron source, and with iron removed by washing with hot aqua regia post-pyrolysis. FeNC catalysts prepared with no Fe show high retained nitrogen content but poor ORR activity, and aqua regia washed catalysts demonstrate similar activity to Fe-free catalysts, indicating that Fe is an active site component.
Subdeltoid lipoma presenting as subluxation of the glenohumeral joint

This case illustrates that space-occupying lesions beneath the heavily collagenated portion of the deltoid can produce a confusing clinical picture mimicking subluxation. This patient's clinical presentation was quite extraordinary in its resemblance to glenohumeral instability. The case also illustrates the importance of imaging studies in confirming questionable diagnoses. Such studies should be read by the surgeon, and any discrepancies from the radiologist's reading should be addressed.
Treatment of endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain with letrozole and norethindrone acetate: a pilot study

Abstract Objective To determine the role of an aromatase inhibitor, letrozole, in the treatment of reproductive-age women with endometriosis and associated chronic pelvic pain. Design Phase 2, open-label, nonrandomized proof-of-concept study. Setting Outpatient tertiary-care center. Patient(s) Ten patients with endometriosis, all previously treated both medically and surgically, with unsatisfactory results. Intervention(s) Endometriosis was diagnosed by biopsy and scored from an initial diagnostic laparoscopy performed within 1 month before treatment was begun. Oral administration of letrozole (2.5 mg), the progestin norethindrone acetate (2.5 mg), calcium citrate (1,250 mg), and vitamin D (800 IU) was done daily for 6 months. Within 1–2 months after completion of the treatment, a second-look laparoscopy was performed to score and biopsy endometriosis. Main outcome measure(s) Changes in American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) scores for endometriosis, pelvic pain assessed by visual analog scale, serum hormone levels (FSH, LH, E 2 , and estrone [E 1 ]), and bone density (DEXA scan). Result(s) No histologically demonstrable endometriosis was present in any patient during the second-look laparoscopy. ASRM and pelvic pain scores decreased significantly in response to treatment. Overall, no significant change in bone density was detected. Gonadotropin levels were not significantly altered by treatment, and although circulating E 2 and E 1 levels were reduced, the decrease was not statistically significant. Conclusion(s) The combination of letrozole and norethindrone acetate achieved marked reduction of laparoscopically visible and histologically confirmed endometriosis in all 10 patients and significant pain relief in nine out of 10 patients who had not responded previously to currently available treatments. On this basis, letrozole should be a candidate for the medical management of endometriosis.
TGFβ (transforming growth factor β) and keratocyte motility in 24 h zebrafish explant cultures

Fish keratocytes are used as a model system for the study of the mechanics of cell motility because of their characteristic rapid, smooth gliding motion, but little work has been done on the regulation of fish keratocyte movement. As TGFβ (transforming growth factor β) plays multiple roles in primary human keratinocyte cell migration, we investigated the possible involvement of TGFβ in fish keratocyte migration. Studying the involvement of TGFβ1 in 24 h keratocyte explant allows the examination of the cells before alterations in cellular physiology occur due to extended culture times. During this initial period, TGFβ levels increase 6.2-fold in SFM (serum-free medium) and 2.4-fold in SFM+2% FBS (fetal bovine serum), while TGFβ1 and TGFβRII (TGFβ receptor II) mRNA levels increase ∼3- and ∼5-fold respectively in each culture condition. Two measures of motility, cell sheet area and migration distance, vary with the amount of exogenous TGFβ1 and culture media. The addition of 100 ng/ml exogenous TGFβ1 in SFM increases both measures [3.3-fold (P = 4.5×10-5) and 26% (P = 2.1×10-2) respectively]. In contrast, 100 ng/ml of exogenous TGFβ1 in medium containing 2% FBS decreases migration distance by 2.1-fold (P = 1.7×10-7), but does not affect sheet area. TGFβ1 (10 ng/ml) has little effect on cell sheet area in SFM cultures, but leads to a 1.8-fold increase (P = 1.5×10-2) with 2% FBS. The variable response to TGFβ1 may be, at least in part, explained by the effect of 2% FBS on cell morphology, mode of motility and expression of endogenous TGFβ1 and TGFβRII. Together, these results suggest that expression of TGFβ and its receptor are up-regulated during zebrafish keratocyte explant culture and that TGFβ promotes fish keratocyte migration.
Generalized thermodynamic properties of real gases: Part II. Generalized Benedict‐Webb‐Rubin equation of state for real gases

By use of a least-squares technique, a set of parameters for the generalized Benedict-Webb-Rubin equation is determined. The generalization of the equation is based on the modified theorem of corresponding states. The generalized equation shows a grand average absolute deviation of 1.6% in predicting the observed values of reduced pressure. The set of constants has been determined for densities up to twice the critical density in the reduced pressure range of 0 to 40.0 and a reduced temperature range of 1.0 to 15.0. The recommended generalized constants are Ao′ = 0.24180980, ao′ = 0.04407059 a′ α′ = 0.11369478 × 10−3, Bo′ = 0.07643101, b′ = 0.03715171, Co′ = 0.21217005, c′ = 0.06448001 and γ′ = 0.06.
Downregulation of atrial markers during cardiac chamber morphogenesis is irreversible in murine embryos

Vertebrate cardiogenesis is a complex process involving multiple, distinct tissue types which interact to form a four-chambered heart. Molecules have been identified whose expression patterns co-segregate with the maturation of the atrial and ventricular muscle cell lineages. It is not currently known what role intrinsic events versus external influences play in cardiac chamber morphogenesis. We developed novel, fluorescent-based, myocardial, cellular transplantation systems in order to study these questions in murine embryos and report the irreversible nature of chamber specification with respect to the downregulation of atrial myosin light chain 2 (MLC-2a) and alpha myosin heavy chain (alpha-MHC). Grafting ventricular cells into the atrial chamber does not result in upregulation of MLC-2a expression in ventricular cells. Additionally, wild-type ventricular muscle cells grafted into the wild-type background appropriately downregulate MLC-2a and alpha-MHC. Finally, grafting of RXRalpha gene-deficient ventricular muscle cells into the ventricular chambers of wild-type embryos does not rescue the persistent expression of MLC-2a, providing further evidence that ventricular chamber maturation is an early event. These studies provide a new approach for the mechanistic dissection of critical signaling events during cardiac chamber growth, maturation and morphogenesis in the mouse, and should find utility with other approaches of cellular transplantation in murine embryos. These experiments document the irreversible nature of the downregulation of atrial markers after the onset of cardiogenesis during ventricular chamber morphogenesis and temporally define the response of cardiac muscle cells to signals regulating chamber specification.
Dynamic Furniture Corporation

In this case, a bank officer must complete a forecast of financial statements initiated by the management of a small furniture company to determine the ability of the firm to service its possible debt structure as a step to recommending which alternative the company should use in raising external funds.
THE IRREPRESSIBLE INFLUENCE OF BYRD

This piece will appear in a symposium on the Shady Grove case in the Creighton Law Review. In it, we argue that the 1958 case of Byrd v. Blue Ridge Electrical Cooperative provides the fullest explication of the principles underlying vertical choice of law. We conclude that although the Supreme Court has rarely given Byrd its due, the separate opinions in Shady Grove reflect its influence.
Employer Perceptions of Oral Communication Competencies Most Valued in New Hires as a Factor in Company Success

This article presents findings of a 2014 survey of 72 U.S. employers asking: Which oral communication skills are most utilized daily by new hires? Which oral skills are most important to company su...
Software Implementation and Verification of Sliding-Mode Control and Fault Detection Methods

Software verification of model reference sliding-mode control and sliding-mode fault detection methods are considered in this paper. Sliding-mode methods are developed for robust control and online fault detection and estimation, and have been implemented in aerospace applications. However, several design parameters should be adjusted for those detectors to operate well. Difficult tuning during design procedure, together with computational complexity of the variable structure methods, leads to complicated software implementation compared to the linear control and fault detection approaches. For the purpose of software verification, we insert annotations in the software in order to include mathematical proofs in software level. As such, computer experts and maintenance engineers can understand and verify the idea behind control and fault detection algorithms. Two invariant sets based on two Lyapunov functions are introduced in software level for either methods to guarantee that sliding motion takes place and sliding motion is stable after system states reach the sliding surface.
Predation on Gypsy Moth (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae) Egg Masses by Birds

We studied predation of gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar (L.), egg masses in two study areas. In Connecticut, individual egg masses were mapped and examined from February to April. Predation rate, expressed as the mean amount removed from an individual egg mass, increased gradually from 30% in February to 53% in April. The percentage of all egg masses upon which some predation was observed increased from 67% to 89% over the same period. Sixteen of 105 egg masses were completely destroyed. Three species of birds were observed feeding on egg masses in the field. In an aviary study, four out of five bird species fed on egg masses with and without alternative foods. Three species of captive small mammals never ate egg masses. In West Virginia, an exclosure experiment revealed that vertebrate predators accounted for 9.3% of egg mass predation from August to April, whereas invertebrates accounted for only 1.5%. Only 5 of 146 egg masses were completely destroyed. Although it is theoretically possible that mammals were responsible for some predation, the gradual nature of egg removal, direct observations of avian predation, and the fact that no mammal has ever been observed to eat an egg mass in field or laboratory leads us to believe that birds were responsible for the observed predation. We conclude that egg mass predation is a variable but potentially important gypsy moth mortality factor worthy of further study.
A Comparison of Two Approval Plan Profiles: A Study in Success and Failure

Approval plans are commonly used by academic libraries as a method of collection development. At the heart of each Ian is the individual library profile which is developed for each library and determines what materials will be sent. Although the profile is crucial to the success or failure of a plan, its role in determining a library's level of satisfaction or dissatisfaction with the Ian has not been examined. Does the profile define and enforce the libraries wishes or does it serve to raise expectations? Two ARL libraries, the University of Georgia and Tulane University, for a time had university press approval plans with the same book jobber. Each organization had vastly different profiles and completely different reactions to their plans. Although unique circumstances on each campus played a role in the outcome of each plan, it appears that the profile served its stated purpose well - it defined wishes and also set expectations.
Hugo Chotek and Czech-American Fiction

No major critical study of Czech-American fiction has ever been published, nor is it as yet possible to do so.' Unfortunately, most CzechAmerican literature has not yet been studied by critics and scholars. The reasons are not hard to locate. There is the traditional tendency of American literary criticism to almost completely ignore non-English writing, and Czechoslovakian scholars have only recently begun a systematic study of this kind of emigrant/immigrant literature. The most comprehensive bibliography (1976) lists over seven hundred volumes of CzechAmerican literature. This figure represents slightly more than ten percent of the total number of volumes in the bibliography. Short fiction and poetry are the most popular genres, followed by the novel and the drama.2 This essay will give a brief introduction to Czech-American fiction and then demonstrate its critical potential through a structural study of two novelettes by the popular Czech-American writer, Hugo Chotek.3 Although we have little biographical data about Chotek, we have discovered some of his fiction written during the period 1880-1920, which was the high point of Czech-American writing about America in the Czech language. More is known, at present, about Pavel Albieri (pen name of Jan Mucek, 1861-1901), who published at least fifteen volumes of fiction, both in Chicago and in Prague; he also published collections of povidky, described as "short stories."4 Actually the Czech povidka is often longer than a "short story" and is more properly classified as a novelette. Other notable Czech-American writers of fiction were John Havlasa (pen name of Jan Klecanda, Jr.), J. R. Psenka, and Otakar Charvat. Many Czech-American writers of this period wrote for the journals. The Czech-American press was thriving: beginning with the weekly Slovan Amerikansky, which began publication in Racine, Wisconsin, on
Segmenting Markets with Conjoint Analysis

Conjoint analysis is a useful measurement method for implementing market segmentation and product positioning. The authors describe how recently developed optimal product design models provide a wa...
Toward Measurement of Thin Film Properties by Enhanced Moire Interferometry

Growing use of thin films in encapsulated integrated circuits(IC's) necessitated new developments in measurement of their mechanical properties in-situ. This can be done by a hybrid analytical experimental approach. The films are approximated by orthotropic membranes and the substrate is assumed to be an elastic continuum. It can be shown that power of stress singularity is a function of geometry and film/substrate material properties. By loading the sample and measuring actual displacement field in the close proximity to the crack or edge, one can evaluate the needed properties. The technique used to measure full field displacements is enhanced moire' interferometry. It is based on the formation of fringes by the coexistence of light wave fronts diffracted from a specimen grating of high frequency. These specimen gratings are created on the specimen surface using a replication technique from a specially prepared mold. Two beams of coherent laser light illuminate the specimen grating obliquely to create a virtual reference grating in front of the specimen. The frequency f of this grating is chosen to be 2400 lines/ mm, this corresponds to a sensitivity of 0.417 µk per fringe order. When the specimen is deformed the interference pattern (moire' fringes) is formed and collected by a video camera connected to a PC-based digital image processor. Analysis of the moire pattern results in full field displacement.
Isosceles trapezoid central configurations of the Newtonian four-body problem

We use a simple direct and basic method to prove that there is a unique isosceles trapezoid central configuration of the planar Newtonian four-body problem when two pairs of equal masses are located at adjacent vertices of a trapezoid. Such isosceles trapezoid central configurations are an exactly one-dimensional family. Explicit expressions for masses are given in terms of the size of the quadrilateral.
Unusual myopathies of infancy.

The myopathies considered are glycogen storage disease, muscular dystrophy, central core disease, myotubular myopathy, nemaline myopathy, and polymyositis. All present a similar clinical picture of weakness and hypotonia or delay in motor maturation. A careful search of the family history for similar conditions is essential. Serum enzyme determinations, electromyography and muscle biopsy may yield a definitive diagnosis.
Intra-individual variability and psychological flexibility: Affect and health in a National US sample

Abstract Intra-individual variability (IIV) and psychological flexibility (PF) in affect both describe affective change over time (i.e., within-person variability). However, IIV and PF might differ from each other and predict different psychological and physical health outcomes. A large sample of adults (n = 793) completed two assessments of daily stress, daily affect, and health over a 10-year interval in The National Study of Daily Experiences (an 8-day daily diary portion of the Midlife Development in the United States study). IIV and PF in affect were modestly reliable within and between assessments. IIV, operationalized as total variability, predicted worse psychological and physical health concurrently and prospectively. PF, operationalized as changes in dimensionality, predicted better psychological and physical health concurrently and prospectively. Other operationalizations of PF were not consistently related to health. Within-person variability in affect could therefore be adaptive or maladaptive depending on how it was defined.
Simulation Analysis of Electric Field Protection for Live-Working on 1 000 kV and 500 kV AC Four-Circuit Transmission Lines on One Tower

Electric field distribution of 1 000 kV and 500 kV AC four-circuit lines on one tower is quite different from that of single-voltage EHV/UHV transmission lines and electric field for live-working becomes more complicated. The field intensity distribution for live-working is simulated in this paper with 3D boundary element method of power frequency electric field and a human body model is established for analyzing the electric field intensity of the human body in different parts in the typical operating conditions including ground potential and equipotential, based on which the electric field protection measures for the live-workers are determined. It is concluded that the safety protection requirements can be met for the equipotential workers who wear screening clothes with 60 dB screen efficiency and screening helmet with 20 dB screen efficiency, and for the ground potential workers who wear conventional screening clothes or electrostatic shielding clothes.
UTILITY MAXIMIZATION IN A LARGE MARKET

We study the problem of expected utility maximization in a large market, i.e., a market with countably many traded assets. Assuming that agents have von Neumannâ€“Morgenstern preferences with stochastic utility function and that consumption occurs according to a stochastic clock, we obtain the â€œusualâ€ conclusions of the utility maximization theory. We also give a characterization of the value function in a large market in terms of a sequence of value functions in finiteâ€ dimensional models.
Pediatric lower extremity amputations

Amputation in children is never undertaken without a great deal of thought. Even in less than optimum circumstances, salvage may be attempted because the patient is a child. This article reviews some of the congenital and acquired disorders that may be treated by amputation. The overlap of syndromes and the medical morbidities are also discussed.
Thermal and Ludwig–Soret diffusion effects on near-boundary ignition behavior of reacting mixtures

Abstract The autoignition behavior is key towards providing insight into a fuel's behavior and performance and equally important towards developing kinetic models. However, there has been evidence in past literature that under certain conditions legacy reactor experiments may exhibit inhomogeneities that could potentially reduce the scientific value of the reported data. Additionally, the initiation of knock in spark ignition engines has been observed to occur close to the cylinder wall. In this study, detailed one-dimensional simulations were carried out in order to provide additional insight into the aforementioned observations. The main focus of the present investigation is on the effects of a colder wall relatively to the core of the reacting mixture, and the attendant development of thermal boundary layers. It is determined that the thermal stratification could alter the ignition behavior for fuels that exhibit distinct negative temperature coefficient behavior and could cause also light and heavy species concentration stratification due to Ludwig–Soret diffusion. More specifically, simulations performed for n -heptane/air mixtures revealed that localized exothermic centers could develop for a range of initial mixture temperatures. Furthermore, simulations for hydrogen/oxygen/argon mixtures showed that species stratification caused by Ludwig–Soret diffusion could lead to increased local heat release rates.
Use and outcomes of metastasectomy in older patients with urothelial cancers.

e15506 Background: Small single-institution series suggest that some patients with advanced urothelial cancer (UC) who have metastasectomy may have long-term survival. However, this procedure may a...
A Seminar in Positive Psychology

This chapter describes an upper level, undergraduate, writing-intensive seminar in positive psychology. A true seminar format is employed in which the instructor and students share coequally in responsibilities for teaching and learning. This format is most successful when 20 or fewer students are enrolled, and when an uninterrupted 3-h segment of time can be set aside, usually during evening hours. Introductory lecture material reviews the history of positive psychology and sets the stage for subsequent topics and assignments. Correlative chapters in the textbook supplement weekly topical content and discussion. Three films are presented to exemplify various attributes of individuation, personal responsibility, courage, redemption, resilience, perseverance, and the importance of sharing vulnerabilities within the context of relationships. Several movies have been employed; these include, but are not limited to: The Fountainhead, Gandhi, Schindler’s List, Good Will Hunting, The Full Monty, and Rainman. Students write 5–7 page reaction papers for each of the three selected films. At the beginning of the term, each student selects a research paper topic which culminates in a 20-page manuscript. Only primary sources from the literature may be employed. Each student selects two others to read and write 2–3 page critiques of the research paper. Toward the end of the semester, each student prepares and presents a PowerPoint summary of their work, and the two critics present their analyses immediately afterwards. Copies of all research papers and critiques are distributed to all members of the seminar. This seminar format reinforces productive, independent scholarship, critical thinking, assessment of the primary literature, and the preparation of a concise oral presentation. The student is further encouraged to appraise the cinematic arts and contemporary literature through the “lens” of a positive psychological perspective.
The Mind of the Poet

Geoffrey Hartman recently assigned a somewhat doubtful future to the study of poetry: The reading, writing, and also viewing of novels will continue. But already the reading of poetry, though not the writing of it, is jeopardized. Poe thought that a long poem was a contradiction: lyric nuggets held together by prosy passages. My recent experience as a teacher tells me that even midsize poems are now a contradiction to students. (‘Fate of Reading Once More’ 388)
Rationale-driven identification of novel gemcitabine sensitivity genes as biomarkers of outcome in pancreatic cancer patients by exploiting the replication stress response

P adenocarcinoma (PAC) is notorious for its devastating disease course and prognosis. Gemcitabine, which inhibits DNA replication, is a widely used regimen for PAC treatment but lack of response and resistance often limits its effectiveness. The Replication Stress Response (RSR) is a signaling network that recognizes challenges to DNA replication and mobilizes diverse activities to maintain genome integrity. The RSR is critical for the prevention of pancreatic cancer by acting as a cancer barrier. Mutations in the RSR promote the proliferation of genetically unstable cells ultimately resulting in cancer but also weaken the ability of cancer cells to respond to treatment by compromising repair pathways. We utilized a rationale-driven approach to identify novel biomarkers for outcome in patients with early-stage resected PAC treated with adjuvant gemcitabine by exploiting dysregulated RSR pathways in PAC. We completed a synthetic lethal screen to identify genetic determinants of gemcitabine sensitivity in human pancreatic cancer cells. Gemcitabine sensitivity genes were assessed for their potential as biomarkers by determining their dysregulation and differential expression in pancreatic cancer tissues. Novel gemcitabine sensitivity genes, dysregulated and differentially expressed in PAC, were analyzed as biomarkers by correlating their expression by immunohistochemistry of tumor tissue from PAC patients who underwent resection with clinical outcome. The identification of novel gemcitabine sensitivity gene biomarkers may be utilized to personalize therapy for PAC patients. David S. Yu, J Cancer Sci Ther 2013, 5:10 http://dx.doi.org/10.4172/1948-5956.S1.028
Abstract 388: High-throughput Single Cell Tracking of Mitochondrial Function in Cardiomyocytes

Mitochondria play a significant role in the regulation of multiple functions in the heart, ranging from metabolism to cell death. Most mitochondrial assays require either isolating the organelle, thus disrupting the intracellular signaling or using intact cells with average measurements for the entire population neglecting the ability to distinguish cell heterogeneity. Here we describe a novel method for tracking single cell mitochondrial function in cell populations over time. Adult mouse myocytes were exposed to the mitochondrial uncoupler FCCP and hydrogen peroxide to induce changes in membrane potential and oxidative stress, respectively. TMRM and mitosox fluorescence were used to quantify mitochondrial membrane potential and ROS production, Fluo-4 fluorescence was used to assess intracellular calcium. Tracking of single cells was performed using Matlab and Imaris software. After FCCP exposure TMRM signal intensity decreased before there was a significant change in myocyte length that led to hypercontracture and cell death within 10 minutes. To better understand the dynamics of mitochondrial function and its relationship with cell death a dose response curve was established for hydrogen peroxide at 100, 500 and 1000 μM. The higher doses of hydrogen peroxide induced hypercontracture faster than lower doses. For further studies 100 μM was used to assess how homogenous the response to hydrogen peroxide was in cell populations. We found 3 distinct populations of cells responding at different times, a population of cells hypercontracted between 7-10 min, another between 10-15 min and a third population only after 15 min. Changes in membrane potential, oxidative stress and intracellular calcium were simultaneously assessed for every single cell during these time points. In addition, given the organized structure of the mitochondria in the myocyte we have adapted our technique to track individual mitochondria to study heterogeneous responses at the single mitochondrion level. This method provides a unique tool to simultaneously assess multiple parameters of mitochondrial function in single cells over time. In doing so, we have unmasked a complex heterogeneity of single cell behavior that is lost in methods than only average cell populations.
Idealizations, essential self-adjointness, and minimal model explanation in the Aharonov–Bohm effect

Two approaches to understanding the idealizations that arise in the Aharonov–Bohm (AB) effect are presented. It is argued that a common topological approach, which takes the non-simply connected electron configuration space to be an essential element in the explanation and understanding of the effect, is flawed. An alternative approach is outlined. Consequently, it is shown that the existence and uniqueness of self-adjoint extensions of symmetric operators in quantum mechanics have important implications for philosophical issues. Also, the alleged indispensable explanatory role of said idealizations is examined via a minimal model explanatory scheme. Last, the idealizations involved in the AB effect are placed in a wider philosophical context via a short survey of part of the literature on infinite and essential idealizations.
Inheritance of Spear-Shaped Leaf in Peanut

ABSTRACT Recently, a single Spear-shaped Leaf mutant plant was discovered in the ‘Georgia-06G' peanut (Arachis hypogaea L. ssp. hypogaea var. hypogaea) cultivar. The mutant had narrow leaflets with each leaflet tapering to a point which gives the appearance of a spearhead shape. Three cross combinations were used to determine the inheritance of this new mutant. F1, F2, and F3 segregation data strongly supported a single incompletely dominant gene, designated SpL, controlling the inheritance of the Spear-shaped Leaf trait. The F2:3 homozygous spear-shaped individual plants had taller mainstem heights, narrower leaflet width, reduced pod weight, and lower SMK percentages compared to the F2:3 homozygous normal leaf plants resulting from the same closely related cross combination (Georgia-06G x Spear-shaped Leaf mutant).
Control of Listeria monocytogenes in whole milk using antimicrobials applied individually and in combination

Dairy product recalls and dairy-related illnesses are often the result of contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, which can occur throughout the dairy production and supply chains. The use of antimicrobial compounds is one practical approach for controlling pathogen survival and growth in foods. The goal of this study was to use fluid milk as a model system to identify listeristatic or listericidal treatments that show promise for application in fluid milk and for further evaluation in other dairy products (e.g., cheese). Caprylic acid (CA), e-polylysine (EPL), hydrogen peroxide, lauric arginate (LAE), and sodium caprylate (SC) were added individually or in combination to whole milk inoculated with L. monocytogenes at ˜4 log10 cfu/mL. Samples were stored at 7°C for 21 d, and L. monocytogenes counts were determined weekly. Inhibitory concentrations of LAE (800 mg/L) and EPL (100-400 mg/L), as well as SC and CA (3,200 mg/L each), were identified. The addition of EPL at 800 mg/L reduced L. monocytogenes counts by >3 log10 cfu/mL from initial inoculation levels after 21 d. Addition of hydrogen peroxide to milk reduced counts by >3 log10 cfu/mL from initial inoculation within 24 h (400 and 800 mg/L) or by d 7 (200 mg/L). Although the combinatory treatments of EPL + CA, EPL + LAE, and LAE + SC were characterized as indifferent, EPL + SC worked synergistically to reduce L. monocytogenes populations in milk over 21 d. Overall, these data identify potential antimicrobial treatments to control L. monocytogenes in milk and serve as a foundation for the continued development of antimicrobial controls for L. monocytogenes in dairy products.
Relationship between efficacy of mating disruption and gypsy moth density

Mating disruption tactics involve the deployment of pheromones to interfere with mate finding behaviors in insect populations. This management strategy is the dominant one used against expanding gy...
Ultrasound Contrast Media: Past, Present, and Future

Contrast agents have played an important role in diagnostic radiology. Aside from angiography and nuclear medicine techniques that are, by definition, contrast examinations, contrast agents have added significantly to the diagnostic capabilities of all imaging modalities. Sonography is the last technique that has not gleaned the benefits of contrast media administration.
Cardiomyocyte Metabolism: All Is in Flux

The intermediary metabolism of energy-providing substrates supports the rhythmic contraction of the heart. However, metabolism also encompasses a universal principle of nature. From the Krebs cycle to the cell cycle, from protein synthesis to degradation, from phosphorylation to dephosphorylation, from histone acteylation to deacetylation, all is in flux – transfer of chemical energy to mechanical energy and the generation and disappearance of a host of metabolic intermediates, many of which are signals for other cellular processes. Such processes include, but are not limited to, pathways for production of reactive oxygen species, regulation of transcription factors and regulation of cellular signaling pathways of cellular growth and destruction. This chapter tries to reconcile a vast amount of existing knowledge, presented as principles rather than as exhaustive details, with the challenges presented by systems biology. With an emerging toolbox of new methods, the acquisition of new knowledge is always in flux, like metabolism itself.
Role of Pioglitazone in the Prevention of Restenosis and Need for Revascularization After Bare-Metal Stent Implantation: A Meta-Analysis

Objectives We performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the impact of pioglitazone in the prevention of in-stent restenosis (ISR) and need for revascularization after bare-metal stent (BMS) implantation. Background BMS use is associated with a significant incidence of restenosis. Pioglitazone, a thiazolidinedione (TZD), has been shown in small studies to be associated with decreased neointimal formation after BMS implantation. Methods The meta-analysis included randomized controlled trials that randomized patients undergoing BMS implantation into pioglitazone treatment in combination with standard treatment or standard treatment only. All randomized controlled trials followed patients for 6 months with baseline and follow-up angiographies. The ISR and revascularization rate were considered primary outcomes. Results We identified 6 eligible studies involving 373 patients (187 in the pioglitazone group and 186 in the control group). Use of pioglitazone was associated with decreased late loss, a larger minimal lumen diameter, and a lower percentage diameter stenosis (p Conclusions This meta-analysis suggests that treatment with pioglitazone is effective in decreasing ISR and need for revascularization after BMS implantation in patients with diabetes. A randomized clinical trial evaluating the hypothesis that administration of pioglitazone reduces restenosis in diabetic patients after BMS implantation seems warranted.
Leader-member exchange, objective performance, employment duration, and supervisor ratings: Testing for moderation and mediation.

As part of a constructive replication of research by Duarte et al. (1993, 1994), objective performance measures, supervisor ratings, duration of employment, and leader-member exchange (LMX) scores were analyzed for 45 bank tellers and 12 bank branch managers. Hierarchical regression tests of LMX as a moderator of the relationship between objective performance measures and supervisor ratings failed to replicate the previously reported interaction among these variables. Further tests of LMX as a mediator of the relationship between objective performance measures and supervisor ratings also failed to support a hypothesized role for LMX in the appraisal process. Additionally, regression analyses did not reaffirm a prior report of short-run and long-run employment duration interacting with LMX in influencing the relationship between objective performance measures and supervisor ratings. Instead, increases in employment duration were found to be associated with more favorable supervisor ratings and superior objective performance. The need for additional replications and construct refinement is highlighted.