cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Attack-Resilient Weighted $\ell_1$ Observer with Prior Pruning

Security related questions for Cyber Physical Systems (CPS) have attracted much research attention in searching for novel methods for attack-resilient control and/or estimation. Specifically, false data injection attacks (FDIAs) have been shown to be capable of bypassing bad data detection (BDD), while arbitrarily compromising the integrity of state estimators and robust controller even with very sparse measurements corruption. Moreover, based on the inherent sparsity of pragmatic attack signals, $\ell_1$-minimization scheme has been used extensively to improve the design of attack-resilient estimators. For this, the theoretical maximum for the percentage of compromised nodes that can be accommodated has been shown to be $50\%$. In order to guarantee correct state recoveries for larger percentage of attacked nodes, researchers have begun to incorporate prior information into the underlying resilient observer design framework. For the most pragmatic cases, this prior information is often obtained through some data-driven machine learning process. Existing results have shown strong positive correlation between the tolerated attack percentages and the precision of the prior information. In this paper, we present a pruning method to improve the precision of the prior information, given corresponding stochastic uncertainty characteristics of the underlying machine learning model. Then a weighted $\ell_1$-minimization is proposed based on the pruned prior. The theoretical and simulation results show that the pruning method significantly improves the observer performance for much larger attack percentages, even when moderately accurate machine learning model used.
How We Work Now: Preliminary Review of a Pediatric Neuropsychology Hybrid Model in the Era of COVID-19 and Beyond.

OBJECTIVE: Although telehealth has become a central component of medical care in response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, comprehensive pediatric neuropsychological assessment over virtual platforms lacks empirical efficacy. This paper presents: a) the results of a quality improvement project examining the feasibility of in-person evaluation in the context of safety measures that alter test standardization, b) the impact such changes had upon neuropsychological test scores, and c) how using a hybrid model of clinical service delivery affected access to care. METHOD: We compared demographic and outcome variables between patients seen during the pandemic (N = 87) to a group of patients seen in our service immediately prior to COVID-19 (N = 87). A subset of those patients were case-matched for age and diagnosis (N = 39 per group). Children seen for neuropsychological re-evaluation during the pandemic (N = 10) were examined using pairwise comparison. RESULTS: Groups did not differ on age, sex, or FSIQ. Despite changes to standardized administration, no group differences were found for any selected neuropsychological test variables in the larger sample or subsamples. In fact, all variables were moderately to highly correlated in the re-evaluation subgroup. The hybrid model expedited feedback sessions and increased face-to-face (telehealth) feedbacks. CONCLUSIONS: A hybrid model incorporating modified in-person testing and intake and feedback encounters via telehealth may be a feasible and effective way to provide pediatric neuropsychological services. These preliminary findings suggest such novel aspects of neuropsychological evaluation could represent an improvement over pre-COVID models, especially in rural settings.
Secondary porosity prediction in complex carbonate reefs using 3D CT scan image analysis and machine learning

Abstract Development and preservation of carbonate porosity and permeability are critical to characterizing reservoirs. However, secondary porosity, such as vugs and fractures, are difficult to identify and require collection of expensive wireline tools or core sampling. Wireline logs and cores have traditionally been used to identify the presence of secondary porosity but fail to quantify the contribution to total reservoir porosity. Additionally, advanced wireline logs and core are not readily available for most wells. Dual energy CT scans were collected on whole core from the A-1 Carbonate and Brown Niagaran formations drawn from six wells in northern Michigan. 3D analysis techniques were applied to identify and isolate secondary porosity features. A series of machine learning and data analytics techniques were applied to the dataset to predict secondary porosity features on basic wireline logs. The predictive model successfully predicted secondary porosity with high confidence.
Abstract 2614: A deep learning model-based lung cancer risk assessment for incidental pulmonary nodules

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death among both men and women. The solitary pulmonary nodule (SPN) is frequently seen on radiographs and computed tomography (CT) and often provokes additional clinical and imaging activities as an SPN alerts possible early stage lung cancer. However, reliable diagnosis of malignant lung nodules in the workup of SPN is challenging, making it difficult for early stage cancer management to avoid morbidity due to malignant cancer, patient distress, and increased costs caused by more invasive and unwarranted procedures for benign cases. We developed a deep learning model based on convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to predict lung cancer risk for incidental SPN. The model can help better management of incidental lung cancer by providing a reliable characterization of SPNs. Deep learning models currently are applied to nodule detection in low-dose CT scans of lung cancer screening for at-risk population. Our work aims to investigate whether deep learning can differentiate benign from malignant incidental SPN during normal dose CT exams, where the number of patients with SPN is an order more than that of lung screening population. We collected an incidental SPN dataset containing 139 CT scans to generate the nodule malignancy prediction model using 3D CNN. This dataset was collected from either contrast or non-contrast CT scans with regular doses. All 139 patients went through surgeries to remove the tumors. CT images were collected within one year before the surgery. 90 cases are malignant and the rest are benign. Ground truth labels were obtained from biopsies. Data were preprocessed by resampling, normalization, and cropping to unique volume around the SPN. The radiologists annotated the SPN location. Since the two nodule classes are imbalanced, we did online data augmentation to increase the variety of lung nodule images and balance the two classes. We used 80% of the data for training and 20% for testing. The deep learning structure adapted is a 3D Resnet with 68 layers and 33M parameters. The area under the receiving operating characteristics curve (AUC) of the prediction result was 0.81 while the accuracy was 79.6%. Applying GradCam to visualize important regions in CT scans contributing to the final predictions, we found that our trained ResNet model focuses on meaningful areas in lung nodules and detects malignant SPNs in most cases. Our preliminary results shows the feasibility of using deep learning to predict incidental lung nodules and improve diagnostic speed and accuracy. Citation Format: Pengyu Yuan, Tiancheng He, Hien Nguyen, Stephen T. Wong. A deep learning model-based lung cancer risk assessment for incidental pulmonary nodules [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2021; 2021 Apr 10-15 and May 17-21. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2021;81(13_Suppl):Abstract nr 2614.
Donor-derived ehrlichiosis: two clusters following solid organ transplantation.

Ehrlichiosis has been infrequently described as transmissible through organ transplantation. Two donor derived clusters of ehrlichiosis are described here. During the summer of 2020, two cases of ehrlichiosis were reported to the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for investigation. Additional transplant centers were contacted to investigate similar illness in other recipients and samples were sent to CDC. Two kidney recipients from a common donor developed fatal ehrlichiosis-induced hemophagocytic lymphocytic histiocytosis (HLH). Two kidney recipients and a liver recipient from another common donor developed ehrlichiosis. All three were successfully treated. Clinicians should consider donor-derived ehrlichiosis when evaluating recipients with fever early after transplantation after more common causes are ruled out, especially if the donor has epidemiological risk factors for infection. Suspected cases should be reported to the organ procurement organization (OPO) and the OPTN for further investigation by public health authorities.
Far Ultraviolet Resonance Raman Spectroscopy of Proteins and Protein Components

Recent advances in laser technology offer an opportunity to exploit the resonance Raman effect using far ultraviolet excitation wavelengths (down to 200nm). Detailed vibrational information can now be obtained on ultraviolet chromophores within protein selectively. We have concentrated attention on the aromatic amino acids, and amide chromophores. Data are presented for tyrosine, tryptophan, and phenylalanine at varying excitation wavelength, and under different conditions (H2O, D2O, and high pH). Within proteins, environmentally sensitive amide, tyrosine, and tryptophan modes serve as markers of secondary structure, and solvent accessibility of particular protein segments. Data are presented for hemoglobin, cytochrome c, and the abnormal tyrosine residue of chicken ovomucoid domain III.
Partitioning of zinc among common ferromagnesian minerals and implications for hydrothermal mobilization

ABsrRAc"r The partitioning behavior of zinc among several common ferromagnesian minerals has been determined from analyses of natural assemblages in order to examine the processes by which zinc is mobilized by hydrothermal fluids. In sysiems where metals are scavenged from crystalline rocks by through-flowing fluids, the important host minerals must be dissolved or must undergo cation-exchange reactions with the fluid. Whereas copper resides in sulfides, zinc resides in magnetite aad, to a lesser exteng in biotite, clinopyroxene and olivine. Magnetite is know:r from petrographic studies to be more resistant to alteration than sulfides. For metals extracted from crystalline rocks, the Cu:Zn mass ratio may thus decrease with progressive alteration. Bulk chemical compositions of altered rocks associated with known ore deposits support this conclusion. ln sysiems where metals are scavenged from cooling magmas by exsolving fluids, the metals are partitioned among melt, fluid and any crystals that have fractionated. For zinc, crystal fractionation may be an important sink if magnetite or biotite crystallize before fluid saturation. The zinc concentrations of magmatic fluids will thus be reduced. Unfornrnately, quantitative evaluation of the effect is dilfrcult owing to uncertainty in the mineral-melt partition coefficients for zinc.
An Algebra Subsystem for Diagnosing Students' Input in a Physics Tutoring System

To help a student in an introductory physics course do quantitative homework problems, an intelligent tutoring system must determine information of an algebraic nature. This paper describes a subsystem which resolves such questions for Andes2. The capabilities of the subsystem would be useful for any ITS which deals with problems involving complex systems of equations. This subsystem is capable of 1) solving the systems of equations at the level of introductory physics problems, 2) checking the validity of equations the students enter, 3) investigating whether an equation is independent from a set of other equations, and if not, determining on which equations it does depend, and finally 4) providing tools to help the student with algebraic manipulations, including a "solve-tool" that solves her equations. The ability to determine dependence of equations is first used by Andes during problem generation, by providing information to that component of the ITS which generates correct solutions to the problem. Later, during tutoring, it enables the help module to model which equations the student appears to know. One new feature of this algebra subsystem is that it deals with the dimensional units of physical quantities throughout. An important change from a previous approach is in the meaning of "correctness" of an equation and in the method of determining which equations it can be derived from. The theoretical differences between the two methods, and the pros and cons of each, are discussed. Then we evaluate how the capabilities of the subsystem have affected the Andes tutor's effectiveness, with a particular emphasis on the effects of the changed method.
On a variational approach to some parameter estimation problems

Examples (1-D seismic, large flexible structures, bioturbation, nonlinear population dispersal) in which a variation setting can provide a convenient framework for convergence and stability arguments in parameter estimation problems are considered. Some of these examples are 1-D seismic, large flexible structures, bioturbation, and nonlinear population dispersal. Arguments for convergence and stability via a variational approach of least squares formulations of parameter estimation problems for partial differential equations is one aspect of the problem considered.
Adaptive Fuzzy Control with Reinforcement Learning

Non-adaptive fuzzy logic controllers can become adaptive by learning from experience in the framework of reinforcement learning. In this paper, we discuss fuzzy reinforcement learning as a hybrid approach which provides a unified framework for including two types of prior knowledge: knowledge for control action selection and knowledge for performance evaluation. We describe GARIC, an architecture for combining fuzzy logic control and reinforcement learning, and apply it to cart-pole balancing and the Space Shuttle attitude control.
Role of alternative splicing in generating isoform diversity among plasma membrane calcium pumps.

Calcium pumps of the plasma membrane (also known as plasma membrane Ca2+-ATPases or PMCAs) are responsible for the expulsion of Ca2+ from the cytosol of all eukaryotic cells. Together with Na+/Ca2+ exchangers, they are the major plasma membrane transport system responsible for the long-term regulation of the resting intracellular Ca2+concentration. Like the Ca2+ pumps of the sarco/endoplasmic reticulum (SERCAs), which pump Ca2+ from the cytosol into the endoplasmic reticulum, the PMCAs belong to the family of P-type primary ion transport ATPases characterized by the formation of an aspartyl phosphate intermediate during the reaction cycle. Mammalian PMCAs are encoded by four separate genes, and additional isoform variants are generated via alternative RNA splicing of the primary gene transcripts. The expression of different PMCA isoforms and splice variants is regulated in a developmental, tissue- and cell type-specific manner, suggesting that these pumps are functionally adapted to the physiological need...
Regulation of tissue-specific alternative splicing: exon-specific cis-elements govern the splicing of leukocyte common antigen pre-mRNA.

Abstract Tissue-specific alternative splicing is an important mechanism for controlling gene expression. Exons 4, 5 and 6 of the human leukocyte common antigen (LCA) gene are included in B cell mRNA but excluded from thymocyte mRNA by differential splicing. In order to study this tissue-specific alternative splicing, we constructed mini-genes that contain only a few of the LCA exons and the SV40 promoter. Mouse B cells and thymocytes were transfected with these mini-gene constructs and the structures of mRNAs were determined by primer extension analysis. The results show that the same primary transcript is spliced alternatively in B cells and thymocytes. This finding suggests that there is a tissue-specific trans-acting factor that regulates the alternative splicing of LCA pre-mRNA. By making various deletion mutants, cis-elements necessary for tissue-specific splicing were confined within the alternatively spliced exons and their immediate flanking intron sequences. Furthermore, linker scanning analysis shows that there are at least three distinct cis-elements within the LCA exon 4 sequence that are required for tissue-specific alternative splicing. Possible mechanisms of LCA alternative splicing are discussed.
Renewed inflation of Long Valley Caldera, California (2011 to 2014)

Slow inflation began at Long Valley Caldera in late 2011, coinciding with renewed swarm seismicity. Ongoing deformation is concentrated within the caldera. We analyze this deformation using a combination of GPS and InSAR (TerraSAR-X) data processed with a persistent scatterer technique. The extension rate of the dome-crossing baseline during this episode (CA99 to KRAC) is 1 cm/yr, similar to past inflation episodes (1990–1995 and 2002–2003), and about a tenth of the peak rate observed during the 1997 unrest. The current deformation is well modeled by the inflation of a prolate spheroidal magma reservoir ∼7 km beneath the resurgent dome, with a volume change of ∼6 × 106 m3/yr from 2011.7 through the end of 2014. The current data cannot resolve a second source, which was required to model the 1997 episode. This source appears to be in the same region as previous inflation episodes, suggesting a persistent reservoir.
In your eyes: does theory of mind predict impaired life functioning in bipolar disorder?

Background Deficits in emotion perception and social functioning are strongly implicated in bipolar disorder (BD). Examining theory of mind (ToM) may provide one potential mechanism to explain observed socio-emotional impairments in this disorder. The present study prospectively investigated the relationship between theory of mind performance and life functioning in individuals diagnosed with BD compared to unipolar depression and healthy control groups.
Design optimization of a large scale rooftop photovoltaic system

Abstract This paper presents the optimization process of a grid connected photovoltaic (PV) system, which is intended to replace a large-scale thermal solar system on the rooftop of a Federal office building. A PV energy conversion model is described. Based on this model, array surface tilt angle and array size are optimized. The optimization method is based on maximizing the utilization of the array output energy, and, at the same time, minimizing the electricity power sold to grid. An effectiveness factor is introduced that takes into account both of these parameters. The array configuration and the output parameters are determined by comparing several PV modules. A 43.2 kW PV system is designed and operational problems such as harmonic effects and anti-islanding are discussed. Finally, the system performance is simulated and through economic analysis it has shown that the cost of PV system can be recouped in 13 years under the current renewable energy incentive program by the state of Illinois.
Planned change and organizational success

Planning identifies activities that create possibilities and change indicates the steps taken to implement a preferred plan. Recognizing the interdependency of of planning and changes is essential. In successful organizations, these activities are merged into a process that is managed by someone with authority. This paper discusses the benefits of ‘planned change’ and the difficulties that arise during planned change. Cases are used to illustrate essential steps in a successful planned change effort.
The ADMR receptor mediates the effects of adrenomedullin on pancreatic cancer cells and on cells of the tumor microenvironment.

Background Adrenomedullin (AM) is highly expressed in pancreatic cancer and stimulates pancreatic cancer cells leading to increased tumor growth and metastasis. The current study examines the role of specific AM receptors on tumor and cells resembling the tumor microenvironment (human pancreatic stellate - HPSC, human umbilical vein – HUVEC and mouse lung endothelial cells - MLEC). Methods and Findings AM receptors ADMR and CRLR were present in HPSC, HUVEC and MLECs while PDAC cells possessed only ADMR receptors as assessed by RT-PCR and western blotting. All cell lines expressed and secreted AM as indicated by ELISA. The growth of each of the cell lines was stimulated by exogenous AM and inhibited by the antagonist AMA. AM also stimulated in vitro angiogenesis assessed by polygon formation of endothelial cell lines. SiRNA-mediated silencing of ADMR, but not CRLR, reduced basal growth of all cells examined and reduced polygon formation of endothelial cells in vitro. Orthotopic tumors developed with shADMR bearing cancer cells had dramatically reduced primary tumor volume (>90%) and lung and liver metastasis compared to shControl bearing cells. To validate ADMR as a potential therapeutic target, in vivo studies were conducted using neutral nanoliposomes to systemically deliver human siRNA to ADMR to silence human cancer cells and mouse siRNA to ADMR to silence mouse tumor stromal cells. Systemic silencing of both human and mouse ADMR had no obvious adverse effects but strongly reduced tumor development. Conclusion ADMR mediates the stimulatory effects of AM on cancer cells and on endothelial and stellate cells within the tumor microenvironment. These data support the further development of ADMR as a useful target treatment of pancreatic cancer.
Donor evaluations of ICM initiatives: what can be learned from them?

Abstract The experience of 19 donor agencies and international organizations with evaluation of ICM initiatives is surveyed to analyze the differences in the evaluative purposes and methodologies and their relevance to a “learning-based approach” to ICM. We group evaluation into three broad categories: performance evaluation, management capacity assessment and outcomes evaluation. Performance evaluations address the quality of project implementation, and the degree to which project goals are achieved. Management capacity assessments are conducted to determine the adequacy of management structures and governance processes as these relate to generally accepted international standards and experience. Outcome assessments evaluate the impacts of a coastal management initiative upon coastal resources and the associated human society(s). The survey show that most donor evaluations emphasize performance evaluation, but usually combine elements of all three types. There is strong interest among international donors investing in coastal management in learning from and advancing coastal management practice. If donors are to maximize leaning and commit to an adaptive approach to ICM they will need to modify the manner in which project monitoring and evaluations are conducted, analyzed and distributed. A number of modifications to current approaches to evaluation are suggested in the paper.
Genetic Loss of Murine Pyrin, the Familial Mediterranean Fever Protein, Increases Interleukin-1β Levels

Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) is an inherited autoinflammatory disorder characterized by unprovoked episodes of fever and inflammation. The associated gene, MEFV (Mediterranean Fever), is expressed primarily by cells of myeloid lineage and encodes the protein pyrin/TRIM20/Marenostrin. The mechanism by which mutations in pyrin alter protein function to cause episodic inflammation is controversial. To address this question, we have generated a mouse line lacking the Mefv gene by removing a 21 kb fragment containing the entire Mefv locus. While the development of immune cell populations appears normal in these animals, we show enhanced interleukin (IL) 1β release by Mefv−/− macrophages in response to a spectrum of inflammatory stimuli, including stimuli dependent on IL-1β processing by the NLRP1b, NLRP3 and NLRC4 inflammasomes. Caspase-1 activity, however, did not change under identical conditions. These results are consistent with a model in which pyrin acts to limit the release of IL-1β generated by activation and assembly of inflammasomes in response to subclinical immune challenges.
Integrating Technology in Schools: a cohort process for graduate level inquiry

ABSTRACT This article reports a graduate level program designed to facilitate inquiry into the integration of technology in schools (ITS). The ITS Process is described within the frame of insights related to teacher developmental readiness for change. The process of teacher education is viewed as change within the dialectic of ideas and actions built around the dynamics of reflection, experience, modeling, planning, and a return to reflection. Four domains of inquiry, the building of a community of thinkers, a broad base of collaboration, and transdisciplinary study are presented as the foundation of the ITS Process. A four semester process of study and the concomitant curriculum are outlined, and strategies for facilitating the process are explored.
Toward systemic education of systems scientists

The systems view of the world includes a system of concepts, a body of theory, a theory of practice and methodologies of research on, planning for and design of systems. The making of systems scientists involves their learning all these things. But the educational media used in systems education are mechanistically conceived however systemic the messages they deliver. Therefore, there is a fundamental contradiction between the media and the message, and, we believe, the media dominate. Mechanically conceived education is analytic. It disassembles that which is to be learned reducing it to a number of discrete and disconnected parts. But systems learning is a whole that cannot be easily divided into independent parts. The essential properties of this whole are lost when it is taken apart. The parts, as well, lose their essential properties when they are separated from the whole. Analysis of a system reveals its structure; synthesis is also required to appreciate its function. Thus analysis and synthesis are complementary; neither replaces the other. Systems learning incorporates both.
An Academic Adjustment Model for Exceptional Adolescents

Every student, regardless of exceptionality, de serves opportunities for success, say these writers, who describe one intervention model they believe effective.
Reasons for prolonged or failed attempts at radiofrequency catheter ablation of accessory pathways

Abstract Objectives. The purpose of this study was to categorize the reasons for a prolonged or failed procedure in a series of patients undergoing catheter ablation of an accessory pathway. Background. Radiofrequency ablation of accessory pathways at times requires a lengthy procedure or a second ablation session, or both, and no prior studies have systematically investigated the reasons for this. Methods. In a consecutive series of 619 patients undergoing catheter ablation of an accessory pathway, the mean ablation time ±SD was 68 ± 64 min. The subjects of this study were 14 patients who had an ablation time >2 SD greater than the mean (>196 min) and 51 patients who required a second ablation session for a successful outcome. The accessory pathway in the 65 patients in this study was located in the right free wall in 19 patients (29%), septum in 14 (22%) and left free wall in 32 (49%). Results. The primary reasons for a lenghty or failed ablation attempt were 1) inability to position the ablation catheter at the effective target site (16 patients, 25%); 2) instability of the ablation catheter or inadequate tissue contact at the target site, or both (15 patients, 23%); 3) mapping error due to an oblique course of the accessory pathway (7 patients, 11%); 4) failure to recognize a posteroseptal accessory pathway as being left-sided instead of right-sided (4 patients, 6%); 5) other errors in accessory pathway localization (6 patients, 9%); 6) epicardial location of the accessory pathway (5 patients, 8%); 7) recurrent atrial fibrillation (2 patients, 3%); 8) occurrence of a complication (2 patients, 3%); 9) unusual right-sided accessory pathway that inserted in the anterior right ventricle, 2 cm away from the lateral tricaspid annulus (1 patient, 1.5%); and 10) unexplained factors (7 patients, 11%). The most common effective strategies employed to achieve a successful outcome in these patients were 1) substitution of a more experienced operator; 2) use of ablation catheters of varying configurations; 3) switching from a retrograde aortic to a transseptal approach; 4) switching from an inferior to a superior vena caval approach; 5) use of a 60-cm guiding sheath; 6) detailed mapping of the atrial or ventricular insertion of the accessory pathway; and 7) searching within the coronary sinus for a presumed accessory pathway potential. Conclusions. A lengthy or failed attempt at catheter ablation of an accessory pathway may be due to a variety of reasons, the most common of which are problems related to some aspect of catheter manipulation and errors in accessory pathway localization. Knowledge of the most common reasons for a lengthy or ineffective procedure may facilitate successful outcome of accessory pathway ablation.
Optical logarithmic filtering using inherent film nonlinearity

Linear optical spatial filtering cannot be effectively applied to multiplied and convolved signals. One approach is to first perform a logarithmic transformation to produce a signal in additive form suitable for linear filtering processes [ A. V. Oppenheim , Proc. IEEE56, 1264 ( 1968)]. It was first suggested that a half-tone screen be used to perform such a transformation [ H. Kato J. W. Goodman , Appl. Opt.14, 1813 ( 1975)]. However, the maximum spatial resolution of this halftone screen technique is limited by the resolution of the screen. In this paper, we shall propose a different technique using the inherent film nonlinearity for the logarithmic transformation. Such a technique would enable the transformation of signals of very high spatial resolution, limited only by the resolution limit of the photographic film. This technique is applied to the spatial filtering and detection of signals in multiplicative noise. Experimental comparisons between linear and logarithmic filtering are presented.
Long-term results of preoperative radiation therapy alone for stage T3 and T4 rectal cancer

Background There has been a resurgence of interest in the use of preoperative radiation therapy, with or without chemotherapy, for locally advanced rectal cancer. The purpose of this study was to analyse the time course and pattern of failure for 74 patients with clinical stage T 3 or T 4 (cT 3-4 ) rectal cancer treated with preoperative radiation therapy for whom long-term follow-up was available. Methods Seventy-four patients with cT 3-4 rectal cancer received a median of 45.0 Gy radiation alone followed by surgery 4-8 weeks later. Median follow-up was 90 months; two-thirds of patients were followed for at least 60 months. Results Following radiation therapy the pathological stage was 4 per cent pT 0 , 26 per cent pT 1-2 and 70 per cent pT 3-4 . Thirty-two per cent had involved lymph nodes. The actuarial 5-year rates of local control, freedom from distant metastasis and disease-specific survival were 80, 64 and 73 per cent respectively. The corresponding 10-year rates were 73, 51 and 50 per cent. Median times to detection of local and distant recurrence were 34 and 24 months respectively. Eighty per cent of local recurrences were detected within 54 months; 80 per cent of distant recurrences were detected within 57 months. Conclusion In this analysis, the time to detection of both local and distant recurrences following preoperative radiation therapy for advanced rectal cancer was surprisingly long. Almost 5 years (57 months) of follow-up were required to detect 80 per cent of all failures. The 5-year local control rate of 80 per cent compares favourably with that achieved by more aggressive chemoradiation regimens for fixed cancers; however, the high distant failure rate with radiation therapy alone suggests that adjuvant systemic therapy should be investigated.
CONTROL OF CHALKINESS IN SOYMILK

Chalkiness is a defect used to describe a food which coats the mouth and throat with fine, grainy particles. This study evaluates the processing and formulation variables which affect chalkiness of Illinois process soymilk produced from dehulled soybeans. Alkalinity of the blanch solution, homogenization conditions, soymilk pH, and solids concentration had the most pronounced effects on chalkiness. Increasing blanch alkalinity decreased chalkiness; beverages adjusted to higher final pH were less chalky. Homogenization at higher temperatures or pressures also significantly reduced chalkiness. Chalkiness increased with soy solids concentration. Beverages produced using conditions to effect optimal quality were compared to low quality products. Centrifugal desludging reduced chalkiness to an imperceptible level. Particles retained by 150 mesh were primarily responsible for chalkiness. The process conditions leading to minimum chalkiness were: direct blanch of cotyledons in 0.25% NaHCO3; homogenization at 180°F and 3500 psi; formulation with 6% soy solids; beverage pH of 7.5.
Hepatic Origin of Triglycerides in Fatty Livers Produced by the Continuous Intragastric Infusion of an Ethanol Diet

Male Wistar rats were maintained for 30 days on an independent and continuous intragastric infusion of ethanol and nutritionally defined liquid diet containing only a small amount of corn oil (CO-4.9% calories). Ethanol intake was progressively increased from 32% to 40.4% of the total calories to maintain a high degree of intoxication during this period. Rats in the control group were infused with an isocaloric diet in which alcohol was replaced by dextrose. The liver triglyceride (TG) content of rats given alcohol (61.5±16.4 mg/g) was ca. 10-fold greater than that of controls (5.9±2.1 mg/g) and similar to that observed previously in rats fed an ethanol diet containing high levels of fat (35% and 43% calories). In TG of fatty liver, the level of 18∶2 was small (3%), even though CO in the diet contained a high level of this acid. Furthermore, 16∶1 and 16∶0 contents were markedly elevated (16% and 40%, respectively) despite the fact that CO did not contain 16∶1 and had only a small amount of 16∶0. Liver TG having a fatty acid (FA) composition markedly different from that of CO and the presence of high levels of 16∶1 and 16∶0 indicate that the TG accumulated in the fatty liver originated from hepatic lipogenesis rather than from dietary fat.
Microsomal metabolism of parathion

Abstract Studies of the microsomal activation of 35S-labeled parathion showed that a 35S-metabolite was bound onto microsomes probably as the result of desulfuration in the activation reaction. Further work indicated that rabbit liver microsomes also degraded parathion by splitting at the aryl phosphate bond. Both activation and degradation by microsomes required NADPH2 and O2, and were inhibited by SKF 525-A and insecticide synergists. The system was specific to parathion and did not degrade paraoxon. The degradation was also demonstrated with microsomes from rat liver and cockroach fat body and a model system (EDTA, Fe2+, and ascorbate).
Nanoparticles Containing Anti-inflammatory Agents as Chemotherapy Adjuvants: Optimization and In Vitro Characterization

The pre-administration of dexamethasone (DEX) has previously been shown to enhance the anti-tumor efficacy of chemotherapeutic agents. The delivery of anti-inflammatory agents specifically to tumors via nanoparticle carriers is expected to promote the effectiveness of chemotherapeutic agents while avoiding systemic toxicities. The process for preparing solid lipid nanoparticles containing anti-inflammatory agents using the nanotemplate engineering method was optimized. Due to the solubilization of DEX in the bulk aqueous phase, its more lipophilic palmitate ester was synthesized and incorporated in nanoparticles that included a pegylating agent, PEG6000 mono-stearate, as part of the formulation. The stealth properties of these nanoparticles were demonstrated to be enhanced compared to latex particles by measuring the adsorption of radioiodinated IgG (185 μg vs. 6.7 μg IgG/mg NP). In addition, the uptake of 14C-labeled nanoparticles by murine macrophages was shown to decrease from 36.6% to 14.7% of the nanoparticles/mg cell protein as the amount of pegylating agent in the formulation increased from 0 to 4 mg/mL. The high loading values and low burst effect observed for these DEX palmitate-containing nanoparticles in addition to their stealth properties are expected to allow for the delivery of sufficient amounts of DEX to tumors to enhance the uptake of chemotherapeutic agents.
Integrating models for regional development decisions: A policy perspective

This paper develops and demonstrates a combined set of models to capture regional development decision processes. The results of the models are then integrated along with other socio-political factors within a policy relevant decision methodology framework. The Haynes and Dinc (1997) extension of the shift-share model identifies regional industrial sectors for analysis based on their scale, productivity and sources of productivity change. By employing Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA), the efficiency of these lead sectors is investigated and the future competitiveness of these sectors is evaluated. By incorporating input-output analysis the impact of inter-sectoral transactions on sectoral efficiency is assessed. Since in most cases state economic development planning and implementation processes also involve political judgements, based on the findings of the above models, the study suggests a decision support framework which combines the above mentioned quantitative tools with other qualitative decision factors. An Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) is employed as a multi-objective decision making device to integrate the relevant policy components.
Dendritic Patterns in Tropical Cumulus: An Observational Analysis

Abstract An observational analysis of the structure and synoptic setting of tropical dendritic cumulus formations was undertaken using 30 months of global data from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer aboard the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Terra satellite, the Quick Scatterometer aboard the SeaWinds satellite, and the National Centers for Environmental Prediction global reanalysis. This analysis yielded 1216 cases of tropical dendritic cumulus formations of which 61 were randomly selected for quantitative study. From these sample cases, it was found that dendritic patterns in shallow cumulus occurred over warm tropical oceans in response to cold air advection. They typically dissipate downstream in regions of cooler water, neutral to warm advection, or deep convection. Moreover, shallow cumulus formations take on a dendritic pattern only in areas where the background wind velocity is between 1.5 and 13 m s−1 in the surface to the 850-mb layer and a shallow layer of conditio...
Homocarnosine elevations: a cause or a sign of seizure control?

Others have used MRS to study AED effects, with results similar to those of Petroff et al.4,5⇓ However, blood flow mapping and other functional neuroimaging techniques have been used more often to study the effects of various AED.6 Most such studies describe only changes in one brain chemical or function occurring after AED use. Many AED-induced functional alterations may be irrelevant to antiseizure actions and to adverse effects of the AED. While a significant correlation of improved seizure control and an AED-induced functional alteration suggest an antiseizure action, it is essential to establish that alteration mediates improved seizure control and not merely a “fellow traveler” with the factor that improves seizure control. Does homocarnosine elevation prevent seizures …
CRITICAL BEHAVIOR OF SUPERFLUID 4HE FILMS ADSORBED IN AEROGEL GLASS

We present measurements of the superfluid density and heat capacity of thin films of $^{4}\mathrm{He}$ adsorbed in aerogel glass. We find that the critical behavior of the superfluid density for films with transition temperatures between 50 mK and 1 K is similar to that seen for films adsorbed on Vycor. Power-law behavior is observed over at least one order of magnitude in reduced temperature with an exponent \ensuremath{\zeta}=0.63\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.03. This exponent is much smaller than the value 0.811\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.004 found when the pores were filled with helium. We also find that the exponent is unchanged by the addition of small amounts of $^{3}\mathrm{He}$. These results are consistent with the existence of a correlation length that diverges at the superfluid transition. Unlike for full-pore $^{4}\mathrm{He}$ aerogel, the correlation length is long compared with all structural length scales throughout the superfluid density power-law regime, thus leading to the more bulklike critical behavior. The heat capacity of $^{4}\mathrm{He}$ films in aerogel shows no singularity like that seen for full-pore $^{4}\mathrm{He}$ aerogel or for thin films adsorbed in Vycor. We show that this result is consistent with the predictions of hyperuniversality given the long correlation lengths implied by the superfluid density measurements.
Electrical properties of silver nanoparticles reinforced LiTaO3:P(VDF-TrFE) composite films

ABSTRACT Pyroelectric infrared Lithium tantalite [(LiTaO 3 ), LT] ceramic particles and silver nanoparticles have been incorporated into a polyvinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene [P(VDF-TrFE) 70/30 mol%] copolymer matrix to form composite films. The films were prepared using solvent casting method. Electrical properties such as the diel ectric constant, dielectric loss, and pyroelectric coefficient have been measured as a function of temperature. In addition, materials figures-of-merit have also been calculated to assess their use in infrared detectors. The results show that the fabricated silver nanoparticles incorporated lithium tantalite: polyvinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene composite films may have a good potential for uncooled infrared sensor applications. Key words: Pyroelectric composite, Infrared detectors, Lithium tantalite, Polyvinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene, Ag nanoparticles 1. INTRODUCTION A pyroelectric detector exposed to in frared radiation absorbs the radiati on and its temperature rises. The rise in the temperature changes the spontaneous polarization, and thus photocurrent is obtained. Infrared imaging devices have numerous applications, including military night vision, security surveillance, fire detection, medical diagnostics, and automotive vision enhancement, imaging systems for cars, ships, aircraft, and others. Pyroelectric infrared sensing devices have several advantages over photon infrared sensors: i.) Sensitivity over a larger spectral bandwidth; ii.) Sensitivity over a wide temperature range without the need of cooling; iii.) Low power requirements; iv.) Relatively fast response; v.) Generally low cost of materials; vi.) Detection is limited, being a passive device; vii.) Temperature range of operation can be changed in certain materials by the variation of the amount of its constituents (such as Lead zirconate titanate, Potassium titanate niobate and others); and viii) Suitable for space applications because of light weight; consuming less powe r having no bulky cooling equipment. Ferroelectric ceramic and polymer composites are a well-established alternative to conventional ferroelectrics for sensors and actuator applications because they combine the mechanical compliance and flexibility of polymer with the high piezoelectric and pyroelectric activities of electro-ceramic [1-3]. In the present work, Lithium tantalite [(LiTaO
Nitrofen induces a redox-dependent apoptosis associated with increased p38 activity in P19 teratocarcinoma cells

Nitrofen is a diphenyl ether herbicide that produces a spectrum of fetal abnormalities in rodents. To characterize the molecular mechanisms of nitrofen-mediated birth defects at the cellular level, we explored its effects on undifferentiated P19 teratocarcinoma cells. Nitrofen induces a time-dependent cell death of P19 cells that is associated with increases in TUNEL-positivity and caspase-3 cleavage suggesting that nitrofen induces P19 cell apoptosis. In addition, the increase in TUNEL-positive cells was inhibited with zVAD-fmk, suggesting that nitrofen induces a caspase-dependent apoptosis. Nitrofen treatment was associated with increased p38 MAP kinase activity, though pretreatment of cells with multiple p38 inhibitors did not affect nitrofen-mediated caspase-3 cleavage, suggesting caspase-3 cleavage is p38-independent. Nitrofen induced a dose-dependent increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS), which was accompanied by a decrease in the ratio of reduced/oxidized glutathione, indicating that nitrofen alters the cellular redox state of these cells. Furthermore, pretreatment of cells with N-acetyl cysteine gave a dose- and time-dependent reduction of caspase-3 cleavage, supporting the observations that caspase-3 cleavage is cell-redox-dependent. Therefore, nitrofen induces P19 cell apoptosis that is cell-redox-dependent and is associated with increases in p38 activity and ROS and may play a role in nitrofen-mediated birth defects.
Analysis of bone placements and effects of skin-fat thickness of obese in the measurement of electrical impedance myography (EIM) through finite element analysis

Electrical impedance myography (EIM), an electrophysiological technique, is recently proposed as a non-invasive technique for the assessment of muscle health. To better understand EIM's ability in its application in different neuromuscular diseases or conditions, a finite element model of EIM has been developed recently which successfully predicts the actual measurement results through the modeling. In this study, we attempt to analyze different physiological aspects in the model and their effects in EIM measurement. In particular, the orientation of bone and its distance from the measuring electrodes at the top of the skin and effects of fat-skin thickness in obesity have been simulated. A finite element model of bicep-femoris for EIM measurement has been modeled. Results show non-significant effects for the bone (humerus in this case) distance from the measuring electrodes. For obesity, we simulated skin-fat thickness as normal, 25% and 50% of muscle thickness. Results show that multifrequency behavior of EIM parameters does not change with of the increase in skin-fat thickness as expected in obesity.
"What I got from treatment": Predictors of treatment content received and association of treatment content with 6-month outcomes in adolescents

Some adolescents show a greater response to treatment than others. We examined the extent to which amount of treatment content received was associated with certain patient characteristics (e.g., readiness to change) and severity of substance involvement at 6-month follow-up. Adolescents (N = 107) recruited from outpatient addiction treatment reported at follow-up on the extent to which treatment addressed addictive behaviors (e.g., getting motivated to change) and other concerns (e.g., depression). Contrary to prediction, readiness to change did not predict amount of treatment content received, but greater number of inpatient days during follow-up predicted greater endorsement of addictive behaviors content. At 6 months, more addictive behaviors content received was associated with fewer alcohol symptoms. For both alcohol and marijuana, greater endorsement of treatment content related to other concerns was associated with greater substance involvement at 6 months, suggesting the importance of evaluating and addressing other concerns because youth may present with problems in multiple domains.
Mercury in organic chemistry. 31. Preparation of allenic and propargylic organomercuric halides

Abstract Propargylic bromides and iodides react with metallic mercury to form the corresponding allenic or propargylic organomercuric halides in high yield.