Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Proton Beam Therapy for Multifocal Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) Showing Complete Response in Pathological Anatomy After Liver Transplantation

We describe a patient with multifocal recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) who received proton beam therapy (PBT) and then underwent donation after brain dead (DBD) liver transplantation. The anatomy of the explanted diseased liver was examined pathologically post-transplantation. The patient was a 52-year-old male with hepatitis B virus infection and liver cirrhosis of Child-Pugh class B. Right lobe and caudate lobectomy were performed for primary HCC. However, three recurrent tumors appeared in the remnant liver in segments S2 (two sites) and S4, of sizes 23 mm, 10 mm, and 32 mm, respectively. Liver transplantation was required due to these multiple HCCs and liver cirrhosis, but the patient was ineligible for living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) based on Milan criteria. He was registered as a candidate on the waiting list for DBD transplantation. In consideration of the long waiting time for a deceased donor transplant for more than one year, the progression of multiple recurrent HCCs, and the risk of death, the patient had limited treatment options other than PBT for poor liver function and multifocal HCC and eventually received 65 GyE/18 fractions of PBT. Eleven months after the start of PBT, the tumors remained progression-free and liver function did not deteriorate, allowing the patient to wait for liver transplantation. After transplantation, the histopathology of the explanted liver showed that the left lobe of the liver treated by PBT showed no evidence of solid tumors and tumor cells in visual and microscopic examinations. There was also no significant damage to normal liver tissue. This case demonstrates that PBT is a prospective option for patients with HCC with poor liver function, multiple tumors, and no other treatment options. PBT can achieve control or even complete response of HCC while maintaining liver function and may be an effective pre-transplant method for tumor downstaging and prolonging survival. PBT may enable more people to wait for a donor liver or to become eligible for liver transplantation.
Bad codes are good ciphers

The paper investigates secrecy systems with additive-like instantaneous block encipherers subject to the error probability criterion. It is shown first that good ciphers for this system are bad codes for an associated discrete memoryless channel (DMC). Then asymptotically worst channel codes for any DMC are constructed explicitly. Applied to the secrecy system, this result gives an asymptotically optimal solution for the enciphering problem.
Uniform approaches to the verification of finite state systems

Research in formal verification mainly entails the following activities: development of appropriate formal models for systems; design of specification formalisms for describing desirable properties; inventing algorithmic techniques to establish the conformance of systems to the desired properties; analyzing complexity bounds for various algorithmic problems arising in these contexts; and characterization of classes of problems which have efficient algorithmic solutions. The contributions of this thesis are in three of these areas, the main emphasis being on the development of uniform techniques. In the area of algorithmic techniques, we develop a uniform methodology that enables us to derive polynomial time algorithms for a number of problems arising in various approaches to the verification of finite state systems. We consider two well known models for finite state systems, namely process algebraic and automata theoretic. The specification formalism for the former is also process algebraic and for the latter, it is based on various modal logics. The notion of conformance is given in terms of appropriate relations (such as bisimulation, simulation, nested simulation, etc.) between processes or in terms of model checking. However, the main hurdle towards achieving feasible algorithmic approach based on these models is the formidable complexity lower bounds. Thus pragmatic considerations demand that the algorithms should be on-the-fly, local and incremental. Our methodology not only allows us to derive polynomial time algorithms with these desirable properties, we can also generate diagnostic information without any additional complexity overhead. Our approach is based on propositional satisfiability problems for Horn clauses and their variants. In the area of complexity lower bounds, we establish uniform lower bounds for classes of relational problems for some natural succinct representations of systems. We show the tightness of our uniform lower bounds by establishing matching upper bounds in several cases. In the area of characterization of subclasses of verificational problems, we establish two sets of results. First, we develop a game theoretic approach to characterize process algebraic relations for polynomial time decidability. Second, our uniform approach leads to characterizations of subclasses of verificational problems that are amenable to efficient parallel algorithms.
Genome-wide association analysis and pathway enrichment provide insights into the genetic basis of photosynthetic responses to drought stress in Persian walnut

Abstract Uncovering the genetic basis of photosynthetic trait variation under drought stress is essential for breeding climate-resilient walnut cultivars. To this end, we examined photosynthetic capacity in a diverse panel of 150 walnut families (1500 seedlings) from various agro-climatic zones in their habitats and grown in a common garden experiment. Photosynthetic traits were measured under well-watered (WW), water-stressed (WS) and recovery (WR) conditions. We performed genome-wide association studies (GWAS) using three genomic datasets: genotyping by sequencing data (∼43 K SNPs) on both mother trees (MGBS) and progeny (PGBS) and the Axiom™ Juglans regia 700 K SNP array data (∼295 K SNPs) on mother trees (MArray). We identified 578 unique genomic regions linked with at least one trait in a specific treatment, 874 predicted genes that fell within 20 kb of a significant or suggestive SNP in at least two of the three GWAS datasets (MArray, MGBS, and PGBS), and 67 genes that fell within 20 kb of a significant SNP in all three GWAS datasets. Functional annotation identified several candidate pathways and genes that play crucial roles in photosynthesis, amino acid and carbohydrate metabolism, and signal transduction. Further network analysis identified 15 hub genes under WW, WS and WR conditions including GAPB, PSAN, CRR1, NTRC, DGD1, CYP38, and PETC which are involved in the photosynthetic responses. These findings shed light on possible strategies for improving walnut productivity under drought stress.
Experiences of family violence among 2SLGBTQ + youth at risk of, and experiencing, homelessness before and during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract Introduction: Family violence is the leading cause of homelessness among youth; however, limited research has examined family violence among 2SLGBTQ + youth experiencing homelessness. The objective of this study was to engage a group of 2SLGBTQ + youth at risk of, and experiencing, homelessness in the Greater Toronto Area and surrounding areas in Ontario, Canada, to examine their experiences of family violence before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: 2SLGBTQ + youth at risk of, and experiencing, homelessness and key informants (service providers) participated in online surveys and one-on-one interviews to assess family violence during the pandemic. Qualitative and quantitative data were analyzed separately and merged for interpretation. Results: The majority of youth experienced various forms of family violence throughout their lives, which was exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion: Our study highlights the need to identify and address family violence toward 2SLGBTQ + youth.
Association Between Change in Quality of Life and Survival in Advanced Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer

OBJECTIVE In advanced-stage lung cancer, the developments in treatment options have resulted in improved survival and quality of life (QoL) becoming parallelly important. The present study investigates whether the pre-treatment QoL domains and changes in the QoL scores could predict survival rates of patients with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
Effect of Yoga Nindra on psychological parameters of mood on school level female sports person

The purpose of the study was to find out the Effect of Yoga Nindra on Selected Psychological Parameters of School Level Sports Person. Yoga Nidra is a form of active meditation. It is a kind of deep sleep in which you don’t lose consciousness. Yoga Nidra is a form of meditation and exercise that connects the mind and the body in a self-guided healing process. The use of Yoga Nidra has increased over the past 10 years. Studies have found the benefits of Yoga Nidra for decreasing depression and anxiety. Yoga Nidra is one such effective technique, not only for physical or mental relaxation but also for preparing the mind for yogic discipline. Yoga Nidra aims to focus the mind to achieve relaxation and increase wellness. Researches also indicate that Yoga Nidra can be used as a therapeutic technique to cure psychological disorders like anxiety, hostility, insomnia etc, and psychosomatic diseases like asthma, coronary heart disease, cancer, hypertension etc.
Nonlinear Orthogonal NMF on the Stiefel Manifold With Graph-Based Total Variation Regularization

This letter proposes a novel Nonlinear Orthogonal NMF model with Graph-based Total Variation regularization (GTV) for Multispectral document images decomposition. In this model, a GTV regularization is incorporated to preserve the intrinsic geometrical structure of document content lost by the vectorization of spectral images. A spatial orthogonality constraint over the Stiefel manifold is imposed to ensure the uniqueness of the solution and improve its sparsity. The kernel trick is involved to account for the non-linear correlation inherent to spectral data. We devised an efficient algorithm to solve the formulated problem using the Alternating Direction Method of Multipliers (ADMM). The experimental results on real-world data show that the proposed model achieves better decomposition performance than recent competitive methods and outperforms some traditional state-of-the-art methods.
Shape Blending Matching free-form surfaces

In this work, the matching problem between two free-form parametric surfaces, S 0 (u, v) and S 1 (u, v), has been considered in the context of a "rst stage of the metamorphosis process, which is de"ned as gradual and continuous transformation of one key shape into another. A method is presented to approximate the two reparametrization functions, r(u, v) and t(u, v), via a discrete sampled set of N2 grid samples on the surfaces. The N2 samples on the source surface are matched against the N2 samples on the target surface, employing a resemblance metric between their Gauss "elds as a criterion. The method preserves the connectivity of the two key surfaces as well. Thus, the resulting reparameterization functions, interpolating the discrete solution must be di! eomorphism. The algorithm works with simple open surfaces, i.e. the surfaces that are homeomorphic to a disk. ( 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Methods of Quantum Field Theory in Statistical Physics

Abrikosov, Gorkov, Dzyaloshinski, Methods of quantum field theory in statistical physics Fetter, Walecka, Quantum theory of many-particle systems T. Schaefer, Quark Matter, hep-ph/0304281. J. Kogut, M. Stephanov, The Phases of QCD, Cambridge University Press (2004). K. Rajagopal, F. Wilczek, The Condensed Matter Physics of QCD, hep-ph/0011333. J. Lattimer and M. Prakash, The Physics of Neutron Stars, astro-ph/0405262. D. Kaplan, Five lectures on effective field theory, nucl-th/0510023.
Stiffness Assessment and Lump Detection in Minimally Invasive Surgery Using In-House Developed Smart Laparoscopic Forceps

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) incorporates surgical instruments through small incisions to perform procedures. Despite the potential advantages of MIS, the lack of tactile sensation and haptic feedback due to the indirect contact between the surgeon’s hands and the tissues restricts sensing the strength of applied forces or obtaining information about the biomechanical properties of tissues under operation. Accordingly, there is a crucial need for intelligent systems to provide an artificial tactile sensation to MIS surgeons and trainees. This study evaluates the potential of our proposed real-time grasping forces and deformation angles feedback to assist surgeons in detecting tissues’ stiffness. A prototype was developed using a standard laparoscopic grasper integrated with a force-sensitive resistor on one grasping jaw and a tunneling magneto-resistor on the handle’s joint to measure the grasping force and the jaws’ opening angle, respectively. The sensors’ data are analyzed using a microcontroller, and the output is displayed on a small screen and saved to a log file. This integrated system was evaluated by running multiple grasp-release tests using both elastomeric and biological tissue samples, in which the average force-to-angle-change ratio precisely resembled the stiffness of grasped samples. Another feature is the detection of hidden lumps by palpation, looking for sudden variations in the measured stiffness. In experiments, the real-time grasping feedback helped enhance the surgeons’ sorting accuracy of testing models based on their stiffness. The developed tool demonstrated a great potential for low-cost tactile sensing in MIS procedures, with room for future improvements. Significance: The proposed method can contribute to MIS by assessing stiffness, detecting hidden lumps, preventing excessive forces during operation, and reducing the learning curve for trainees.
Size and attributes of probation officers’ service provider networks: connecting individuals with mental illnesses to community-based supports

Abstract This exploratory study examines inter-organizational communication patterns and information sharing between probation officers and service providers when coordinating services for people with mental illnesses on probation. Thirty-four probation officers from one rural (n = 12) and one urban (n = 22) county completed a researcher-administered questionnaire pertaining to the size of probation officers’ service provider networks and the frequency and nature of contacts with those networks. Egocentric network analysis and bivariate inferential statistics were used to examine direct relational ties between each officer and the service providers within their communities. Probation officers in both counties reported high frequency of contact with service providers and indicated that service providers and officers were more likely to share information if reciprocated by their dyad counterpart. Probation agencies may consider enhancing probation officers’ service provider networks and fostering reciprocal and mutually-beneficial relationships to ensure timely access to services for adults with mental illnesses who are on probation.
The concept of finite limit of a function at one point as explained by students of non-compulsory secondary education

We review various educational studies of the mathematical concept of limit of a function at a point that indicate how colloquial uses of the terms “to approach,” “to tend toward,” “to reach,” “to exceed” and “limit” influence students’ conceptions of these terms. We then present the results of an exploratory study of this question performed with Spanish students in non-compulsory secondary education and analyze the responses they provide to justify the truth or falsity of statements related to the different characteristics of the concept of finite limit of a function at a point when they use these terms. Finally, we organize their answers according to the kinds of arguments made. Using the response profiles detected, we discuss the influence of everyday usage on the students’ arguments.
Achievement of 3-D Pulse Waves of Pulse Diagnostic Apparatus by using Multi-Hall Devices

The electric signals for the voltage as a function of distance between Hall devices and permanent magnets over the radial artery were investigated. The electric sgnals, that means signals of arterial pulse wave, were differentiated by the hardware of circuits and then were changed to differential signals as magnetic field. The 3-D images simulated by the software as function fo the intensity of differential signals were achieved. It shows that these system can apply to pulse diagnostic apparatus of porthble type medical instrument.
Study on the Evolution, Driving Factors, and Regional Comparison of Innovation Patterns in the Yangtze River Delta

The differences in innovation, and the resulting inefficient allocation of innovation resources, are key factors affecting the high-quality development of urban agglomerations. In the context of China’s upgrading of the integrated development of the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) to a national strategy, the study of innovation patterns and driving factors in this highly developed urban agglomeration provide references and experiences for high-quality development and innovation improvements in other urban agglomerations. Using prefecture-level patent data from 2000 to 2018, this study analyses the evolution characteristics of the innovation patterns in the YRD, from the perspective of innovation level and innovation growth, based on the coefficient of variation, locational Gini coefficient, and the relative development rate index. Then, using the knowledge production function, this study quantitatively explores the driving factors for innovation from multiple perspectives. The main findings are as follows. The differences in urban innovation levels decrease with improvements in the innovation level of urban agglomerations. In terms of the evolution of the spatial pattern of innovation levels, the “core–periphery” and “south–north” differences are highly stable; however, the innovation levels of some peripherical cities improve. The growth of urban innovation levels show significant regional differences, with fast-growing cities clustered in the core area, and high-value areas characterized by proximity diffusion. Based on the innovation level in different periods, cities are divided into low–low, low–high, high–low, and high–high types. There are spatio–temporal differences in the driving factors for innovation. On the one hand, different periods show an intensification of factor inputs and external linkage effects, as well as the differentiation of urban development state effects. On the other hand, there are differences among different types of cities, with low–low cities mainly driven by factor inputs, urban development state, and internal opening-up; low–high and high–high cities are greatly influenced by factor inputs and urban development state. By expanding on existing studies, the present research provides a refined reference for the formulation of scientific policies aimed at promoting innovation development in China.
Optimal Sizing and Management of Battery Energy Storage Systems in Microgrids for Operating Cost Minimization

Abstract Microgrids are one of the best solutions to present energy crisis, where the expansions of distributed networks are not feasible. This is achieved with penetration of renewable energy sources along with suitable selection of Energy Storage Systems (ESS). The load demand can be supported with microgrid in the grid connected mode or autonomous mode by suitable sizing of DGs and BESS. Sizing of suitable ESS in terms of its capacity or discharge helps in shaving the peak demand and also maximizes the benefits related to their use. Various advantages to end-users can be provided by microgrid with ESS, like improvement in energy efficiency, minimizing overall energy consumption through distributed generations (DGs) and increasing reliability of power supply to the customers. All these advantages can be achieved by obtaining the optimal microgrid operating cost with ESS. One of the challenging tasks in Microgrids is obtaining optimal energy utilization of DGs to meet the load demand. This can be achieved through proper energy management in the microgrid by obtaining optimal power allocations of DGs and ESS. This paper presents an algorithm for microgrid operating cost minimization for 24 hrs time horizon with optimal power allocation of DGs considering randomness in DGs, with and without BESS. Accelerated particle swarm optimization (APSO), Jaya optimization (JAYA) technique and Linear programming based interior point algorithm (LP-IP) have been applied to minimize the operating cost of microgrid with optimal Energy management while selecting proper size of BESS. Simulation results obtained by PSO, APSO, JAYA and LP-IP solver based algorithms are compared for BESS size and microgrid operating cost for 24 hrs. Results of LP-IP solver based optimization algorithm are proved to be the most effective of all other algorithms in terms of cost reduction. Optimal sizing of BESS with energy management of DGs and BESS reduces the operating cost of microgrid meeting the load criteria.
Effects of tutin and its derivatives on GAD and GABA-T in Pseudelatia separata (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

Tutin inhibits the receptors of the neurotransmitter γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA). In this work, we compared tutin with its derivatives, 2-(4-methoxybenzoyloxy)-tutin (T1), 2-(3,5-dinitrobenzoyloxy)-tutin (T2), 2-(6-chloronicotinoyloxy)-tutin (T3), and 2-(4-nitrobenzoyloxy)-tutin (T4), in terms of their effects on feeding and the feedback regulation mechanism of GABA metabolism. Spectrophotometry was used to determine the glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) and γ-aminobutyric acid transaminase (GABA-T) activities of these compounds in 3rd instar larvae of Pseudelatia separata. Clear antifeedant activities were manifested by T1 and especially T3, whereas T4 stimulated feeding in P. separata. GAD and GABA-T activities in larvae treated with all five toxins differed significantly from the control and from one other (P < 0.05) in terms of treatment types and exposure times. The effects of the toxins on GAD and GABA-T were time-dependent for 48 h. GAD activities were inhibited by tutin, T2, T3, and T4, and were enhanced by T1. GABA-T activities were increased by all the toxins in varying degrees. Variation of GABA content in P. separata larvae resulted from the disturbance of GAD and GABA-T by tutin and its derivatives. Results suggest that T3, with its nicotinoyl group, is the most promising novel active ingredient for pest control.
Economy Aware Token-Based Incentive Strategy to Promote Device-to-Device (D2D) Relay Use in Mobile Networks

— Device-to-device (D2D) relay enhances the capacity of a mobile network. If the channel quality of a user equipment (UE) is bad, the UE asks a neighbor to get its data from the base station and forward the data to it by using D2D communication. Since cellular and D2D communication can share spectrum resources, the spectral efﬁciency will rise. As UEs are owned by self-interested users, they may not provide relay services gratis. Thus, some incentive methods let UEs exchange tokens to buy and sell relay services. However, they assume that each relay service is worth one token and offers a ﬁxed data rate, which lacks ﬂexibility. Through the law of supply and demand , this paper proposes an economy aware token-based incentive (EAT-BI) strategy. A supplier (i.e., the service provider) charges different prices for its relay service with different rates. A consumer (i.e., the service requestor) takes different policies to choose a supplier based on its tokens and may bargain with suppliers to avoid starvation. Simulation results show that EAT-BI can efﬁciently promote D2D relay use and increase throughput with different mobility models of UEs.