cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The essential role of the otolaryngologist in the diagnosis and management of temporomandibular joint and chronic oral, head, and facial pain disorders.

This article clarifies the current state of knowledge of chronic oral, head, and facial pain (COHFP) conditions with the inclusion of temporomandibular joint disorders as just one component of the variety of conditions that can cause head and facial pain. Obtaining an accurate diagnosis in a timely manner is extremely important because COHFP symptoms can be caused by a variety of pathologic conditions that can be inflammatory, degenerative, neurologic, neoplastic, or systemic in origin. The essential role of the specialty of otolaryngology in the diagnosis and management of patients with these complex COHFP conditions is emphasized.
On the Theory of the Stark Effect in Hydrogenic Atoms

The Stark effect of the fine structure of hydrogenic atoms is discussed in the light of the quantum mechanics. Explicit formulas are given for the energy levels in either a weak or a strong electric field, including in each case both the relativity corrections and the Stark effect. (The conventional treatment neglects either one or the other.) The results are, except in form, similar to those recently given by Schlapp. In the new mechanics, in contradistinction to the old Bohr theory, there is a linear Stark effect even in weak fields, because of the identity of energy for the $\mathrm{ns}$ and $n{p}_{1}$ levels in the absence of external fields. This degeneracy is shown to account for the results of the recent experiments of Ornstein, Zernike, and Snoek, who found that the $2s$ level in $H$ is not metastable.
Cutaneous inflammation: Effects of hydroxy acids and eicosanoid pathway inhibitors on vascular permeability

Abstract Four metabolic products of arachidonic acid lipoxygenation, 5-hydroxyeicosatetraenoate (5-HETE), 12-HETE, 15-HETE, 5(S),12(S)-DiHETE, were injected intradermally into depilated dorsae of albino guinea pigs. The presence of intravenously injected 125 1-bovine serum albumin (10uCi/ kg) in 13-mm punch biopsy specimens served as a marker for altered vascular response; histologic changes were evaluated at 6 and 24 h after the injection in 1-μm-thick sections. Thirty minutes after the injections of 15 nanomoles and 60 nanomoles of 5-HETE, the ratios of radioactivity in HETE-injected to that in buffer-injected sites were 1.35 ± 0.06 (mean ± SE) and 2.80 ±0.27, respectively. Corresponding effects of 15-HETE were 1.39 ±0.17 and 1.63 ±0.21, respectively. Values for 60 nanomoles of 12-HETE and 5,12-DiHETE were intermediate in comparison with the above eicosanoids. The most notable histologic changes were a neutrophilic infiltrate induced by 12-HETE at 6 and 24 h, and neutrophilic and eosinophilic infiltrates in response to 5,12-DiHETE injection at 6 and 24 h. Effects of topically applied eicosanoid pathway inhibitors were also evaluated, using intradermally injected sodium arachidonate (AA) as agonist. Three mixed cyclooxygenase/lipoxygenase inhibitors, BW755C, phenidone, and nordihydroguaiaretic acid, suppressed vascular response by 9%, 9%, and 6% for 150 nmol of AA, and by 9%,13%, and 12% for 300 nmol of AA, respectively. The cyclooxygenase inhibitor, indomethacin, induced suppressions of 39% for 150 nmol AA and 22% for 300 nmol AA, respectively. These data demonstrate that metabolites of both cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase eicosanoid pathways are involved in alteration in vascular response accompanying cutaneous inflammation.
Ligaments and tendons of the ankle. Evaluation with low-field (0.2 T) MR imaging.

Purpose. To investigate the value of MR imaging using a low-field imaging unit (0.2 T) for the evaluation of ligaments and tendons of the ankle. Material and Methods: Twelve ankle specimens were studied using low-field MR imaging (0.2 T). The Achilles tendon, the tibialis posterior tendon, and the lateral collateral ligaments were evaluated for the presence of degenerative changes and partial and complete tears. Visibility and overall image quality were analyzed by qualitative evaluation. Results: Low-field MR images of the 24 tendons were interpreted as normal in 11 cases, showing degenerative changes in 9 cases and a partial tear in 1 case. Visualization was regarded as not sufficient for a diagnosis in 3 cases. Of the 36 ligaments, 14 were regarded as normal while degenerative changes were seen in 5 cases and a tear in 2 cases. In 13 cases, no diagnosis could be established, and in 2 cases only a probable diagnosis was established. The best overall quality was obtained with the use of T1 spin-echo (680/20/4) and T2 multi-echo (3000/40/1) images. Conclusion. Optimized protocols for examination of the ankle using low-field MR imaging may allow evaluation of the Achilles and tibialis posterior tendons, but these protocols may not be as useful for diagnosing ligamentous changes.
Effects of progesterone and a progesterone antagonist (RU486) on germinal vesicle breakdown in the mouse

The possibility that ovarian steroids may participate in the inhibition of meiosis has not been rigorously examined. Since progesterone levels are extremely high in follicular fluid prior to ovulation, we tested the possibility that this steroid may be involved in oocyte maturation. To this end, we collected follicular oocytes and cultured them in the presence of dibutyrl cAMP (Bt2), progesterone, and/or the progesterone antagonist RU486 and assessed maturation evidenced by germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD). Denuded oocytes or cumulus masses collected in the presence of 1 mM Bt2 and subsequently cultured in 25 microM progesterone did not undergo GVBD. However, denuded oocytes and cumulus masses collected in the presence of progesterone and not Bt2 did undergo GVBD (93%). Concentrations of Bt2 (150 microM) that would not inhibit GVBD were inhibitory when used in the presence of progesterone (1-25 microM). Competition experiments using increasing concentrations of the progesterone antagonist RU486 (1-100 microM) did not block the ability of progesterone to enhance the activity of Bt2. We conclude that progesterone alone does not block GVBD; however, in the presence of low concentrations of cAMP it is extremely effective in blocking GVBD. The synergistic activity of progesterone does not appear to be mediated by the progesterone receptor. The data suggest that progesterone and cAMP may operate cooperatively to inhibit meiosis in the ovarian follicle.
Epidemiology and diagnosis of HIV-associated periodontal diseases.

A review of periodontal disease as a manifestation of HIV infection suggests a shift in emphasis over the past 5 years. Initially the focus was on newly described forms of periodontal disease (i.e., HIV-associated gingivitis or linear gingival erythema (LGE); HIV-associated periodontitis or necrotizing ulcerative periodontitis (NUP). While the clinical definition of LGE varies from study to study, an association between LGE and Candida infection has been described. Furthermore, the prevalence of NUP is quite low and this disorder is associated with severe immunosuppression. In contrast, the focus today is on the accelerated rate of chronic adult periodontitis occurring in seropositive patients. While the organisms that characterize adult periodontitis in seronegative individuals are present in subgingival plaque from seropositive individuals, reports suggest that atypical pathogens are also present (i.e., Mycoplasma salivarium, Enterobacter cloacae). Recent studies from our laboratory have identified a novel strain of Clostridium isolated from the subgingival plaque of injecting drug users that has pathologic potential. This organism, however, was found in both seropositive and seronegative individuals in this cohort, suggesting an association with lifestyle rather than serostatus. In addition, data has been published examining the local host response in periodontitis in seropositive individuals. Distinctly elevated levels of IgG in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) have been observed in seropositive patients. Furthermore, data from our laboratory examining inflammatory mediators in GCF (polymorphonuclear leukocyte lysosomal enzyme beta-glucuronidase and the pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-1 beta) suggests an altered response in patients with HIV infection. The alteration manifests as the absence of the expected strong correlation between polymorphonuclear leukocyte activity in the gingival crevice and clinical measures of existing periodontal disease, as well as elevated levels of interleukin-1 beta in sites with deeper probing depths. Therefore, it can be concluded that the progression of periodontal disease in the presence of HIV infection is dependent upon the immunologic competency of the host as well as the local inflammatory response to typical and atypical subgingival microorganisms.
Bone marrow-induced Mef2c deficiency delays B-cell development and alters the expression of key B-cell regulatory proteins.

The Mef2 family transcriptional regulator Mef2c (myocyte enhancer factor 2c) is highly expressed in maturing bone marrow and peripheral mature B-cells. To evaluate the role of this transcription factor in B-cell development, we generated a B-cell-specific conditional deletion of Mef2c using the Mb-1-Cre transgene that is expressed during the early stages of immunoglobulin rearrangement. Young mice possessing this defect demonstrated a significant impairment in B-cell numbers in bone marrow and spleen. This phenotype was evident in all B-cell subsets; however, as the animals mature, the deficit in the peripheral mature B-cell compartments was overcome. The absence of Mef2c in mature B-cells led to unique CD23 + and CD23 − subsets that were evident in Mef2c knockout primary samples as well as Mef2c-deficient cultured, differentiated B-cells. Genome-wide expression analysis of immature and mature B-cells lacking Mef2c indicated altered expression for a number of key regulatory proteins for B-cell function including Ciita, CD23, Cr1/Cr2 and Tnfsf4. Chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis confirmed Mef2c binding to the promoters of these genes indicating a direct link between the presence (or absence) of Mef2c and altered transcriptional control in mature B-cells.
On Certain Performance Issues Arising In Adaptive Control

In this note we address the problem of improving the performance of a class of Model Reference Adaptive Controllers (MRAC) under insufficient excitation and in the presence of perturbations, e.g., non-parametric uncertainty and bounded disturbances. In such an environment, the global boundedness of a MRAC closed-loop (BIBO stability) has been established, without any excitation requirements, for both bounded disturbances and `small' non-parametric uncertainty (e.g., see [1, 2] and references therein). In addition to this form of robust stability, the adaptive controller also guarantees robust tracking performance in a root-mean-square (RMS) sense. That is, the RMS value of the normalized tracking error is of order of the size of the non-parametric uncertainty and/or the RMS value of the external disturbances. Unfortunately, however, this weak performance measure is rarely reliable in assessing the effectiveness of the adaptive controller. Indeed, in the absense of sufficient excitation, even arbitrarily small perturbations may cause the adjustable parameters to drift away from their desired or actual values. Such a parameter drift can then produce large instantaneous tracking errors due to either a change in the excitation signal or the (local) destabilization of the closed loop system. This type of undesirable behavior, often referred to as burst phenomena, has been the subject of several studies (e.g., see [3, 4, 5, 6]). A typical remedy of the bursting problem has been recognized in the form of absolute or relative dead-zones [7, 8].
3-D Copper based TSV for 60-GHz applications

This paper presents modeling, simulation and experimental measurements of copper-based TSV for 60-GHz applications. We have considered different via dimensions for modeling and simulations and performed simulations to validate electrical performance of the TSV with varying data rates in addition to providing eye diagram analysis. To validate the electrical model, we performed TSV characterization by fabricating an interconnect using copper material on a silicon substrate.
Formation of Partially Ordered Oligomers of Amyloidogenic Hexapeptide (NFGAIL) in Aqueous Solution Observed in Molecular Dynamics Simulations

A combined total of more than 600.0 ns molecular dynamics simulations with explicit solvent have been carried on systems containing either four peptides or a single peptide to investigate the early-stage aggregation process of an amyloidogenic hexapeptide, NFGAIL (residues 22-27 of the human islet amyloid polypeptide). Direct observation of the aggregation process was made possible by placing four peptides in a box of water with an effective concentration of 158 mg/ml to enhance the rate of aggregation. Partially ordered oligomers containing multistrand b-sheets were observed which could be the precursory structures leading to the amyloid-forming embryonic nuclei. Comparative simulations on a single peptide suggested that the combined effect of higher peptide concentration and periodic boundary condition promoted compact monomers and the short-range interpeptide interactions favored the b-extended conformation. Of particular interest was the persistent fluctuation of the size of the aggregates throughout the simulations, suggesting that dissociation of peptides from the disordered aggregates was an obligatory step toward the formation of ordered oligomers. Although 95% of peptides formed oligomers and 44% were in b-extended conformations, only 16% of peptides formed multistrand b-sheets. The disordered aggregates were mainly stabilized by hydrophobic interactions while cross-strand main-chain hydrogen bonds manifested the ordered oligomers. The transition to the b-extended conformation was mildly cooperative due to short-range interactions between b-extended peptides. Taken together, we propose that the role of hydrophobic interaction in the early stage of aggregation is to promote disordered aggregates and disfavor the formation of ordered nuclei and dissociation of the disordered oligomers could be the rate-limiting step at the initiation stage.
Factors influencing the severity of acute viral hepatitis A.

Background/Aims: Most patients with acute viral hepatitis A have a favorable course, but a few of them suffer from severe forms of hepatitis such as fulminant hepatitis. This study was carried out to identify the factors influencing the severity of acute viral hepatitis A. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 713 patients with acute hepatitis A, who were divided into two groups: severe hepatitis A (N=87) and non-severe hepatitis A (N=626). Severe hepatitis was defined as fulminant hepatitis or prolongation of prothrombin time (INR≥1.5). Clinical variables were compared between the two groups. Results: The incidence of fulminant hepatitis was 1.4 % (10/713) in patients with acute hepatitis A. Thirty-three (4.6 %) cases exhibited HBsAg positivity. In multivariate analyses, significant alcohol intake and the presence of HBsAg were significant predictive factors of fulminant hepatitis A, and significant alcohol intake and age were significant predictive factors of severe hepatitis A. HBeAg and HBV-DNA status did not affect the clinical course of hepatitis A in chronic hepatitis B carriers. Conclusions: While most patients with acute hepatitis A have an uncomplicated clinical course, our data suggest that a more-severe clinical course is correlated with being older, significant alcohol intake, and chronic hepatitis-B-virus infection. (Korean J Hepatol 2010;16:295-300)
Framing and Women's Support for Government Spending on Breast Cancer Research and Treatment Programs

In this study, we use an experiment to evaluate how the framing of breast cancer threat shapes women's preferences for government spending on breast cancer research and treatment programs. The results indicate that framing breast cancer in terms of mortality elicits feelings of anxiety, which in turn heightens support for government spending on behalf of women. Despite the salience of breast cancer as a women's health issue, this relationship does not hold for the full sample of women. Instead, we observe a great deal of heterogeneity in reactions to the issue frames based on two individual-level factors: (1) women's perceptions of their own personal risk for developing the disease and (2) the extent to which women have a general tendency to experience and express anxiety—what psychologists refer to as their level of trait anxiety. These two lines of inquiry—personality traits as moderators of framing effects and emotion as a consequence of framing—have previously been investigated somewhat independently. In this article, we integrate the two In order to gain insight into the complexity of the psychological processes that underlie public opinion toward women's health. The results highlight the need for political rhetoric to underscore personal risk in order to mobilize support for spending on breast cancer research and treatment among women.
Greek college students and psychopathology: new insights.

Background: College students’ mental health problems include depression, anxiety, panic disorders, phobias and obsessive compulsive thoughts. Aims: To investigate Greek college students’ psychopathology. Methods: During the initial evaluation, 638 college students were assessed through the following psychometric questionnaires: (a) Eysenck Personality Questionnaire (EPQ); (b) The Symptom Checklist-90 (SCL-90); (c) The Beck Depression Inventory (BDI); (d) State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). Results: State anxiety and trait anxiety were correlated, to a statistically significant degree, with the family status of the students (p = 0.024) and the past visits to the psychiatrist (p = 0.039) respectively. The subscale of psychoticism is significantly related with the students’ origin, school, family status and semester. The subscale of neuroticism is significantly related with the students’ school. The subscale of extraversion is significantly related with the students’ family psychiatric history. Students, whose place of origin is Attica, have on average higher scores in somatization, phobic anxiety and paranoid ideation than the other students. Students from abroad have, on average, higher scores in interpersonal sensitivity and psychoticism than students who hail from other parts of Greece. The majority of the students (79.7%) do not suffer from depression, according to the Beck’s depression inventory scale. Conclusions: Anxiety, somatization, personality traits and depression are related with the students’ college life.
Dynamical simulations of magnetically channelled line-driven stellar winds – II. The effects of field-aligned rotation

Building upon our previous MHD simulation study of magnetic channeling in radiatively driven stellar winds, we examine here the additional dynamical eects of stellar rotation in the (still) 2-D axisymmetric case of an aligned dipole surface eld. In addition to the magnetic connement parameter introduced in Paper I, we characterize the stellar rotation in terms of a parameter W Vrot=Vorb (the ratio of the equatorial surface rotation speed to orbital speed), examining specically models with moderately strong rotation W = 0.25 and 0.5, and comparing these to analogous non-rotating cases. Dening the associated Alfv en radius RA 1=4 R and Kepler
Relationships Between Psychiatric Clinical Assessment Scores and Patients’ Daily Activities

Abstract Background: Because of the increasing demands in the mental health care environment, providers are called upon to demonstrate the efficacy of treatment. Few studies have examined the relationship between symptoms at admission and level of functioning, involvement in treatment, and rehospitalization rates. Objectives: The purposes of this study were to: (a) examine the relationship between symptoms at admission, level of functioning, and exposure to activities for inpatients with depression and anxiety disorders; and (b) examine the association between inpatient exposure to activities and rehospitalization rates. Design: This study was a secondary analysis of a nonprobability convenience sampling of 67 patients, ages 18 to 80 years, who were admitted to an inpatient psychiatric unit. The Global Assessment Scale and Beck Depression Inventory were used to assess functioning and symptoms. The Nursing Record of Patient Daily Activities was used to record patient activities. Results: Global Assessment Scores at time of admission were positively related to independent patient activities. Readmitted patients were more likely to have a diagnosis of depression and be taking anxiolytics at the time of admission. Conclusions: More studies are needed to examine the relationship between admission and posthospitalization symptoms, level of functioning in patients, and treatment components to ascertain which aspects of treatment are most effective for patients with specific symptoms, levels of functioning, and diagnoses. Patients' symptoms and level of functioning at the time of admission should help guide the development of appropriate treatment plans. (J Am Psychiatr Nurses Assoc [2001]. 7, 145-54.)
Variation of Piperidine Alkaloids in Ponderosa (Pinus poderosa) and Lodgepole Pine (P. contorta) Foliage from Central Oregon

We quantified 2,6-disubstituted piperidine alkaloids in Pinus ponderosa and P. contorta needles from three forest sites in April, June, August, and December. Alkaloids were detected on at least one date in 71% of the ponderosa pine and in 29% of the lodgepole pine trees sampled. Pinidine was the major alkaloid constituent of ponderosa pine, while euphococcinine was the predominant compound in lodgepole pine. For ponderosa pine, total alkaloid concentrations were very low at two sites on all dates. At the third site, concentrations were variable but significantly higher on all dates. Total alkaloid concentrations in previous-year foliage from this site were highest in April, then significantly lower from June through December. Current-year foliage collected in August and December had significantly higher alkaloid concentrations than previous-year foliage on the same dates. Variation in foliar nitrogen concentrations accounted for some of the alkaloid variation in current-year foliage sampled in August.
Synthesis of Three Dimensional Carbon Nanostructure Foams for Supercapacitors

In this work, we demonstrated the growth of three dimensional graphene/carbon nanotubes hybrid carbon nanostructures on metal foam through a one-step chemical vapor deposition (CVD). The as-grown three dimensional carbon nanostructure foams can be potentially used as the electrodes of energy storage devices such as supercapacitors and batteries. During the CVD process, the carbon nanostructures are grown on highly porous nickel foam to form a high surface area 3-D carbon nanostructure by introducing a mixture precursor gases (H2, C2H2). The surface morphology was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the results demonstrated relatively homogeneous and densely packed 3-D carbon nanostructure. The quality was characterized by Raman spectroscopy. To further increase the capacitive capability the supercapacitors were fabricated based on the electrodes of carbon nanostructure foam and cyclic voltammetry, charge-discharge, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were conducted to determine their performance.
Investigating the genomic basis of metabolic robustness through in silico flux analysis

We employ a novel implementation of flux balance analysis to investigate the role of genome structure in the maintenance of metabolic robustness. We propose the hypothesis that the genomic organization of a bacterium buffers its metabolome against random gene deletion. To test this hypothesis, we use a novel implementation of producibility analysis to determine the metabolomic impact of gene deletions in the E. coli iJR904 genome-scale metabolic model. From these results, we determine metabolomic fragility, which we compute as the average number of metabolites knocked out across all gene deletions of a given size in a given nutrient media. We apply this analysis for three deletion window sizes (4000, 8000, 16000 bp) across the length of the E. coli genome. We compare these results to those obtained from several null distributions of permuted genomes to assess the impact of E. coli genome organization on its metabolic robustness. Our results strongly suggest that the arrangement of genes on the E. coli genome buffers metabolite producibility against random gene deletion. Our results have interesting implications for the understanding of metabolic network evolution. Future work includes examining our hypothesis for a wider range of deletion sizes and nutrient environments and extending our results to the metabolic networks of other species.
Generation of internal waves by barotropic tidal flow over a steep ridge

A three-dimensional nonhydrostatic numerical model is used to study the generation of internal waves by the barotropic tidal flow over a steep two-dimensional ridge in an ocean with strong upper-ocean stratification. The process is examined by varying topographic width, amplitude of the barotropic tide, and stratification at three ridge heights. The results show that a large amount of energy is converted from the barotropic tide to the baroclinic wave when the slope parameter, defined as the ratio of the maximum ridge slope to the maximum wave slope, is greater than 1. The energy flux of internal waves can be normalized by the vertical integral of the buoyancy frequency over the ridge depths and the kinetic energy of the barotropic tides in the water column. A relationship between the normalized energy flux and the slope parameter is derived. The normalized energy flux reaches a constant value independent of the slope parameter when the slope parameter is greater than 1.5. It is inferred that internal wave generation is most efficient at the presence of strong upper-ocean stratification over a steep, tall ridge. In the Luzon Strait, the strength of the shallow thermocline and the location of the Kuroshio front could affect generation of internal solitary waves in the northern South China Sea.
Treating volume overload in acutely decompensated heart failure: established and novel therapeutic approaches.

Background:Most patients hospitalized for acutely decompensated heart failure (ADHF) present with symptoms and signs of volume overload, which is also associated with substantially high rates of de...
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells express Bruton's tyrosine kinase and can be depleted in tumor bearing hosts by ibrutinib treatment

Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) are a heterogeneous group of immature myeloid cells that expand in tumor-bearing hosts in response to soluble factors produced by tumor and stromal cells. MDSC expansion has been linked to loss of immune effector cell function and reduced efficacy of immune-based cancer therapies, highlighting the MDSC population as an attractive therapeutic target. Ibrutinib, an irreversible inhibitor of Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) and IL2-inducible T-cell kinase (ITK), is in clinical use for the treatment of B-cell malignancies. Here, we report that BTK is expressed by murine and human MDSCs, and that ibrutinib is able to inhibit BTK phosphorylation in these cells. Treatment of MDSCs with ibrutinib significantly impaired nitric oxide production and cell migration. In addition, ibrutinib inhibited in vitro generation of human MDSCs and reduced mRNA expression of indolamine 2,3-dioxygenase, an immunosuppressive factor. Treatment of mice bearing EMT6 mammary tumors with ibrutinib resulted in reduced frequency of MDSCs in both the spleen and tumor. Ibrutinib treatment also resulted in a significant reduction of MDSCs in wild-type mice bearing B16F10 melanoma tumors, but not in X-linked immunodeficiency mice (XID) harboring a BTK mutation, suggesting that BTK inhibition plays an important role in the observed reduction of MDSCs in vivo Finally, ibrutinib significantly enhanced the efficacy of anti-PD-L1 (CD274) therapy in a murine breast cancer model. Together, these results demonstrate that ibrutinib modulates MDSC function and generation, revealing a potential strategy for enhancing immune-based therapies in solid malignancies. Cancer Res; 76(8); 2125-36. ©2016 AACR.
Power in Modeling Virtual Marine Microbes: When used properly, models provide valuable insights into complex systems and sometimes yield surprising, even counterintuitive outcomes

The marine ecosystem plays a crucial role in chemical cycles and is an important resource in terms of food and recreation. The base of this ecosystem is an extremely diverse collection of free-drifting, autotrophic, unicellular eukaryotes and bacteria—phytoplankton—that account for about half the primary production on Earth. Modern analytic techniques are leading researchers to build large datasets describing these organisms at the genomic level. We are also collecting increasing amounts of data about the physical and chemical environment that they inhabit.
Categoricalist Eligibility Requirements for ASCP Certification: A University-Based Medical Technology Curriculum

The specialty options in the University of Vermont' 2+2 Baccalaureate Medical Technology program prepare categoricalists in chemistry, hema-tology, and microbiology. Graduates of this university-based program are eligible to take Categoricalist certification examinations without additional clinical experience. These curricula offer courses and clinical rotations that provide more concentrated study in one area than can be accommodated in the generalist curriculum. Specialty graduates are proficient in routine and special methodologies and have experience in problem solving, troubleshooting, and clinical research. Clinical experiences are provided in university student laboratories and clinical affiliates. Graduates are successful in gaining employment in their specialty area. Those employed in their specialty rate their academic preparation as very good. Graduates of this type of program are eligible for ASCP Categorical certification under a new eligibility route. Other university-based medical technology programs, in conjunction with basic science departments, may adapt this curriculum for their students.
Characterization of Bi–Ag–X Solder for High Temperature SiC Die Attach

Higher operating temperature (200 °C) SiC power devices simplify the thermal management system for power electronics modules in hybrid and electric vehicle applications. However, common lead-free solders have a melting point of only 217 °C-229 °C, limiting their use in this application. In this paper, a Bi-Ag-X solder paste with a solidus point of approximately 265 °C was characterized on direct bond copper (DBC) and CuMo reactively brazed alumina substrates. The Cu and CuMo surfaces were plated with Ni:B and Au. During high-temperature storage (200 °C) of test vehicles on DBC, there was an initial decrease in die shear strength followed by relatively constant die shear strength with further aging (through 5000 h). The initial decrease in shear strength was determined to be the result of NiBi3 intermetallic formation. The formation of the intermetallic layer was limited by the thickness of the initial Ni plated on Cu or CuMo. Similar results were observed for CuMo samples thermal cycled (-55 °C to +195 °C) up to 2000 cycles.
How do I best manage insomnia and other sleep disorders in older adults with cancer

Insomnia is common in older adults with cancer, with a reported prevalence of 19-60% in prior studies. Cancer treatments are associated with increased risk of insomnia or aggravation of pre-existing insomnia symptoms, and patients who are receiving active cancer treatments are more likely to report insomnia. Insomnia can lead to significant physical and psychological consequences with increased mortality. We discuss physiological sleep changes in older adults, and illustrated the various sleep disorders. We present a literature review on the prevalence and the effects of insomnia on the quality of life in older adults with cancer. We discuss the risk factors and presented a theoretical framework of insomnia in older adults with cancer. We present a case study to illustrate the assessment and management of insomnia in older adults with cancer, comparing and contrasting a number of tools for sleep assessment. There are currently no guidelines on the treatment of sleep disorders in older adults with cancer. We present an algorithm developed at the City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center by a multidisciplinary team for managing insomnia, using evidence-based pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions.
Aerosol fenoterol by intermittent positive pressure breathing in asthmatic patients

Ten subjects with mild to moderately severe asthma participated in a study of the bronchodilator activity and incidence of side effects of fenoterol aerosol administered by intermittent positive pressure breathing (IPPB). The doses of fenoterol used in the Bird micronebulizer were 0, 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1.0 mg, and 2.5 mg, and these were administered in a randomized, double-blind fashion. The bronchodilator response, assessed by the area under the FEV1 curve, showed mean (+/- SE) values of 1.44 +/- 0.53 1 hr for 0.25 mg of fenoterol to 1.66 +/- 0.56 1 hr for 2.5 mg of fenoterol (p greater than 0.05), longer (p less than 0.01) than the mean placebo response of 0.06 +/- 0.38 1 hr. A dose-dependent increase in tremor was observed for each of the doses of fenoterol. The 0.25-mg dose of fenoterol solution is an appropriate starting dose for the treatment of moderately severe asthma.
Management of newly diagnosed metastatic carcinoma of the prostate.

SUMMARY Most patients with clinical stage D-0 prostatic cancer (persistently elevated acid phosphastase, normal bone scan, and normal lymph node evaluation) have occult distant metastases and should be treated conservatively as stage D-2 disease. Younger patients with stage D-0 disease may be candidates for staging pelvic lymphadenectomy to identify those having surgical stage D-1 disease (minimal lymph node metastases only), some of whom may benefit from radical prostatectomy. Alternatively, some younger patients with stage D-0 disease may experience long-term disease-free survival following whole-pelvis or extended-field external-beam radiation therapy. Most patients with surgical stage D-1 disease also will not benefit from curative treatments; therefore, they also should be treated generally as patients with stage D-2 disease. A small fraction (about 15 to 20 per cent) with minimal nodal disease may be cured by pelvic lymphadenectomy combined with radical prostatectomy or radiation therapy, but it is doubtful that the limited prospects for cure justify the morbidity and functional sacrifices associated with such therapy. Patients with stage D-2 disease (distant metastases) who are sexually potent may be treated with delayed endocrine therapy (preferably orchiectomy or alternatively 1 to 3 mg per day of diethylstilbestrol after breast irradiation). Immediate endocrine therapy is indicated for symptomatic patients, including those with bladder outlet or ureteral obstruction, and is also appropriate for asymptomatic patients who are sexually impotent.
Novel Nanoparticle-Based Approaches To Target B-Cell Malignancies.

Abstract Introduction: Current approaches to the management of B-cell malignancies include the use of systemic treatments with cytotoxic chemotherapeutics that are not targeted to the tumor cell itself. By improving the ability to deliver lethal agents to the malignant cell clone, such as by targeting the unique tumor idiotype, it is possible that the therapeutic index of our current armamentarium could be improved, thereby optimizing patient outcomes. Nanoparticles represent one attractive approach in this area, since their high surface to volume ratio provides a strong driving force for diffusion into the tumor microenvironment. Methods: Studies were performed using Ramos and SUP-B8 human Burkitt's lymphoma cell lines, as well as cell lines representative of other hematologic malignancies. Commercially available nanoparticles (Qdots; Invitrogen) as well as nanoparticles generated using PRINT (particle replication in non-wetting templates) technology, were used with idiotype and control peptides. Results: A biotinylated peptide recognized by the SUP-B8 idiotype was bound to streptavidin-containing Qdots, as well as to 200 nm polymeric PRINT particles. Both of these nanoparticle types bound specifically to SUP-B8 Burkitt's lymphoma cells, as determined by the induction of a fluourescence shift by flow cytometry. These same particles showed no detectable binding to Ramos Burkitt's lymphoma cells, whose idiotype recognizes a distinct set of peptide sequences, nor to other malignant cell lines, such as RPMI 8226 and ANBL-6 multiple myeloma cells. Moreover, when these nanoparticles were coated with control biotinylated peptides, no binding was seen to any of these cell types, demonstrating the specificity of this approach. Studies utilizing a number of techniques, including fluorescence and electron microscopy, revealed that, after binding, these idiotype-specific particles were internalized by SUP-B8 cells, but not by control cells, or when control peptides were used. Studies in vivo are underway to determine if these targeted nanoparticles can be used for imaging, as well as for delivery of lethal cargoes such as doxorubicin. Conclusion: Nanoparticles can be targeted to specific neoplastic B-cell clones through the use of peptides recognized by the surface idiotype, possibly thereby sparing toxic effects to other B-cell clones, as well as to non-lymphoid cells. The ability to generate nanoparticles of various chemistries, sizes, and porosity, as well as nanoparticles containing a wide array of cargoes, will allow these to be used as platforms for the future personalization of therapy of B-cell malignancies.
Biliary carcinomas: pathology and the role of DNA mismatch repair deficiency

The pathology of biliary carcinomas is diverse with different gross and histological features in tumors arising in the different segments of the biliary system. Various epidemiological risk factors, varied genetic makeup, and tissue microenvironment are contributory factors. As biliary tumors have been shown to be a part of the Lynch syndrome tumor spectrum, it is plausible to speculate that DNA mismatch repair (MMR) deficiency plays a role in biliary tumors. Literature data suggest that DNA MMR deficiency indeed occurs in these tumors, albeit infrequently with the reported frequencies (weighted for sample size) of high level microsatellite instability (MSI) being 5% each for gallbladder carcinoma and carcinoma of extra-hepatic bile ducts, and 10% each for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma and ampullary carcinoma. Importantly, the presence of MMR deficiency in these tumors has been shown to have different implications with regard to its association with Lynch syndrome, tumor histological features, and other clinical characteristics, when compared with non-biliary tumors or among the biliary tumors from the different segments of the biliary system. Ongoing and future efforts that utilize large scale sequencing techniques and aim at detecting actionable molecular targets should emphasize a multidisciplinary approach that integrates genomic discoveries with not only functional studies but also studies of tumor pathology and the tumor's clinical and biological behavior.
Acute Toxicity of Ternary Cd-Cu-Ni and Cd-Ni-Zn Mixtures to Daphnia magna: Dominant Metal Pairs Change along a Concentration Gradient.

Multiple metals are usually present in surface waters, sometimes leading to toxicity that currently is difficult to predict due to potentially non-additive mixture toxicity. Previous toxicity tests with Daphnia magna exposed to binary mixtures of Ni combined with Cd, Cu, or Zn demonstrated that Ni and Zn strongly protect against Cd toxicity, but Cu–Ni toxicity is more than additive, and Ni–Zn toxicity is slightly less than additive. To consider multiple metal–metal interactions, we exposed D. magna neonates to Cd, Cu, Ni, or Zn alone and in ternary Cd–Cu–Ni and Cd–Ni–Zn combinations in standard 48 h lethality tests. In these ternary mixtures, two metals were held constant, while the third metal was varied through a series that ranged from nonlethal to lethal concentrations. In Cd–Cu–Ni mixtures, the toxicity was less than additive, additive, or more than additive, depending on the concentration (or ion activity) of the varied metal and the additivity model (concentration-addition or independent-action) us...
Crowd analytics via one shot learning and agent based inference

For the purposes of inferring social behavior in crowded conditions, three concepts have been explored: 1) the GE Sherlock system which makes use of computer vision algorithms for the purposes of the opportunistic capture of various of social cues, 2) a one shot learning paradigm where behaviors can be identified based on as few as a single example and 3) an agent based approach to inference where generative models become the basis for social behavior recognition. The Sherlock system makes use of tracking, facial analysis, gaze estimation and upper body motion analysis. The one-shot learning paradigm makes use of semantically meaningful affects as descriptors. The agent based inference methods allows for the incorporation of cognitive models as a basis for inference.
J-REIT Market Quality: Impact of High Frequency Trading and the Financial Crisis

Using the introduction of Arrowhead low latency trading platform by Tokyo Stock Exchange as a natural experiment, I analyze the impact of high frequency trading on market quality of J-REITs, in terms of liquidity, volatility, and systemic risks. I also analyze the impact of the 2008 financial crisis. The results document that while the crisis has significantly deteriorated the market quality, the J-REIT markets were resilient. Further, the introduction of Arrowhead improved the J-REIT market quality but has also increased the probability of flash crashes. Finally, using difference-in-differences regression model, I show that since REITs have a higher transparency and better price discovery, they were much less affected by the financial crisis and Arrowhead as compared to non-REIT common stocks.
Backstepping design for adaptive control of a class of switched nonlinear system

In this paper, the tracking control problem of nonlinear switched system under arbitrary switched signals is resolved. Adaptive backstepping control technique is introduced and its control effect with accurateness and speedability is attained, in order to deal with nonlinear lower triangular switched system with uncertain parameters. First, adaptive law and the corresponding tracking controller is provided under arbitrary switched signals, the proof of stability is presented as well. Then, the mathematical model of motor in form of lower triangular is established based on asymptotic tracking control method, simulation case of BLDCM is given in the meantime. Finally, simulations and analyses of adaptive law and the corresponding controller have verified the proposed method.
Effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Comorbid Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A Review of the Research

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) are highly comorbid, precipitating an urgent need to identify evidence-based practices that might be used to address this comorbidity exclusively. The aim of this study was to conduct a review of intervention research and clinical reports to examine the use of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with individuals who have comorbid ASD and OCD. Based on the pre-determined review inclusion criteria, 11 studies were included in the review: three randomized control trials (RCT), one case controlled study, two single subject experimental designs, and five case studies. These studies offer promising data on the use of CBT interventions for individuals with ASD and comorbid OCD as well as for individuals with OCD and comorbid ASD when standard CBT protocol is enhanced with modifications such as parental involvement, increased use of visuals, personalized treatment metaphors, self-monitoring, positive reinforcement, and use of clear language and instructions. Limitations and implications for future research and practice are discussed.
The Relationship Between Measures of Annual Livestock Disturbance in Western Riparian Areas and Stream Conditions Important to Trout, Salmon, and Char

Managing livestock disturbance in riparian zones in a manner that provides economic returns to ranchers while protecting streams is an important aspect of rangeland management on public lands in the western United States. Attempts to balance economic and ecologic outcomes have been made more difficult due to the presence of several salmonid species that are protected under the Endangered Species Act. One approach to proper management of livestock use near streams has been to define the allowable limits of disturbance using 2 metrics, streambank alteration and stubble height. We evaluated 153 stream reaches within the Interior Columbia Basin to determine if these 2 surrogates of livestock disturbance measured after the vegetative growing season were associated with stream conditions important to salmonids evaluated the following summer. We found that each stream habitat attribute that was evaluated (width-to-depth ratio, streambank angle, percent undercut banks, streambank stability, residual pool depth, percent pools, percent pool-tail fine sediments <2 mm, and wood frequency) trended toward lower-quality salmonid habitat as streambank alteration increased or as stubble height decreased. While the strength of these associations were variable, the slopes of the relationships suggest that managing the amount of streambank alteration or stubble height could influence stream conditions within the Interior Columbia Basin. Because improved stream conditions for salmonids corresponded to decreased livestock disturbance, the amount of disturbance allowed in a stream reach will need to reflect management expectations and the environmental setting within the allotment. As a starting point, we suggest the continued application of existing livestock disturbance standards in stream reaches with good habitat conditions, and the specification of more conservative disturbance standards in stream reaches that have degraded habitat conditions.
Comparison of handheld Raman sensors through opaque containers

Raman spectroscopy is a powerful tool capable of identifying unknown materials. In the past 20 years, laser sources and detectors have been getting smaller which has led to the development of handheld Raman sensors for use by the military and first responders. One of the advantages of Raman sensors is that it requires no sample preparation, however the incident laser must be able to interrogate the sample which means that the measurement must be taken in the open air or a transparent container. If an unknown material is found in an opaque container, it is typically transferred into a transparent sample jar which represents a handling hazard for the operator. More recently, a technique known as Spatially Offset Raman Spectroscopy (SORS) has shown the ability to measure Raman signals for materials stored in opaque (non-metallic) containers which would eliminate this hazard. Alternatively, advanced algorithm techniques can be used with traditional epi-illumination laser excitation to extract weak Raman signatures from noisy backgrounds or complex mixtures caused when looking at chemicals stored in Raman-active containers. For this study we compare spectral results obtained from two commercially available Raman instruments which use an epi-illumination configuration and SORS against a common set of transparent and opaque containers.