cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
SU‐FF‐T‐603: The Impact of Dose Prescription On Treatment Volume

Purpose: To determine the effect of dose prescription on the relative volumes of normal tissue being treated.Method and Materials: Clinical treatment plans (4‐field prostate, 10‐field SBRT and 4‐field 3d Brain) and phantom plans (2cm and 8cm diameter targets, using 4‐field box) were studied on the Pinnacle treatment planning system. For each case optimized plans were developed and doses calculated using a 2 mm calculation grid. PTV's were taken from the clinical plans or defined as the target volume for the phantom cases. The effect of block margin on dose distributions was evaluated for three levels of PTV margin: 1.0, 0.5 and 0.0 cm. For each case isodoses were separately generated based on either ICRU dose normalization (prescription dose normalized to 100% at the isocenter) or on prescription line normalization, where a prescription isodose line was selected such that 95% of the PTV receive 100% of the prescribed dose. Results: We separately analyzed each clinical and phantom case for the different combinations of block margin and dose normalization criteria. Isodose volumes were calculated for each configuration and plotted for comparison. Conclusion: One of the advantages of the ICRU definition of prescription dose is that uniformity in dose reporting can be achieved. We have found that inclusion of 0.5 to 1.0 cm margins around PTV's, in conjunction with ICRU dose prescription, can reduce the hot spot doses by as much as 30% with smaller tissue volumes irradiated to lower isodoses, while providing almost equally good coverage of the 95% volume as is obtained with tight blocking and lower isodose prescription lines.
Assertive training versus rehearsal and the importance of making an assertive response

Abstract This study dealt with whether mere practice would enhance assertion, and whether assertive training would reduce negative effect in simulated target situations, even when subjects (Ss) made no overt response. Males reporting difficulty with authority figures received either rehearsal alone or the complete assertive training package; in a subsequent behavioral test half in each group were told to make a response, with the remainder instructed to remain silent. Objective ratings revealed marked improvement following assertive training, while the effects of practice alone were negligible. For Ss receiving assertive training, reduction in selfreported negative affect in the target situations appeared to be independent of whether or not they engaged in overt verbalization, suggesting that assertive training, per se may enhance feelings of well-being.
Longitudinal Characterization of Breast Morphology during Reconstructive Surgery

Quantitative analysis of breast morphology facilitates pre-operative planning and post-operative outcome assessments in breast reconstruction. Our project is developing algorithms to quantify changes in local breast morphology occurring over time. The project encompasses three topics: (1) Three-dimensional (3D) images registration, (2) Breast contour detection, and (3) Quantitative analysis of local breast morphology changes. We developed a semi-automated 3D image registration algorithm. We have also developed an approach to directly compute breast contour on 3D images. In the future, we will improve existing and develop additional algorithms to fulfill our project goals.
NONIMAGING OPTICS An Overview

Winston reviews the history of nonimaging optics and discusses two methods for designing optical elements that push the theoretical limit of light collection.
Comparison of Two Age-Estimation Techniques for Cougars

Age estimation in wildlife is crucial for population assessment and management decision-making. Estimation errors may reduce the efficacy of management programs or potentially result in poor management decisions. Our objective was to compare aging techniques (gum-line measurement and cementum annuli analysis) for Cougars (Puma concolor) using harvest data collected during 2006–2010 in Oregon. Differences in paired age estimates (cementum annuli estimate minus gum-line recession estimate) had 95% confidence limits of −0.28 and −0.06. Linear regression showed a relatively high level of agreement ( 1 age-estimation technique, implementation of standardized protocols (if not currently in place), and additional training to potentially increase consistency and reduce bias among observers will be beneficial for Cougar management.
Using editing operations to improve searching by color in multimedia database systems

Since multimedia database management systems determine similarity by comparing sets of image features, relevant images in the database can be missed if their features do not match those extracted from the query image. Many failed matches can be avoided if modified versions of the missed relevant images are also stored in the underlying database. To minimize the storage cost associated with adding extra images to the database, the modified versions can be stored as sequences of editing operations instead of as large, binary objects. This article presents a technique for processing color-based queries in this environment that accesses the sequences of editing operations directly. It also presents a methodology that can be used to speed up the query processing just as ordered indices speed up the processing of traditional queries. In addition, this article provides a performance illustrating the technique's strengths and weaknesses when compared with the traditional approach to processing color-based queries. The results indicate that with low similarity thresholds, the proposed technique processes similarity searches more accurately than the traditional approach while using less database storage space since the modified versions are kept as editing operation sequences. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Imaging Syst Technol, 18, 182–194, 2008
Sequence-dependent cytotoxicity of etoposide and paclitaxel in human breast and lung cancer cell lines.

Purpose: To evaluate the effect of schedule on the interaction of etoposide with paclitaxel in vitro against the A549 human lung cancer cell line and the MDA-231 and MCF-7 human breast cancer cell lines. Methods: Exposure schedules that were 24-h concurrent, 24-h sequential, and sequential 24-h with a 24-h intervening drug-free period were quantitatively evaluated by the use of the median-effect principle and the combination index. The clonogenic assay was used to assess cytotoxicity, and calculations were done with computer software. Results: Concurrent exposures were less than additive in two of the three cell lines tested. Sequential 24-hour and sequential 24-h with an intervening 24-h drug-free period showed synergism at high effect levels in all three cell lines. Similar synergistic interactions were found when either agent was administered first. Conclusions: These results show a schedule-dependent cytotoxic interaction between etoposide and paclitaxel in the human lung and breast cancer cell lines evaluated, with optimal synergism occurring with sequential, but not with concurrent, treatment.
Behavioral, biochemical, and blood pressure responses to alprazolam in healthy subjects: Interactions with Yohimbine

The effect of single doses of alprazolam (1.5 mg) and yohimbine (30 mg) and alprazolam and yohimbine given together on plasma free 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylethyleneglycol (MHPG), cortisol, blood pressure, and subjective behavioral ratings was studied in eight healthy subjects. In comparison to placebo, alprazolam significantly reduced plasma MHPG and cortisol, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and increased subjective ratings of drowsiness and mellow. Yohimbine and the alprazolam-yohimbine combination significantly increased plasma free MHPG. Concomitant yohimbine administration antagonized the effects of alprazolam on blood pressure and attenuated alprazolam-induced changes in cortisol and subjective ratings. The ability of alprazolam to decrease plasma MHPG and blood pressure contrasts with previously reported effects of diazepam. The implications of the findings of the present investigation to the postulated role of brain noradrenergic function in the etiology of panic anxiety and the therapeutic mechanism of action of antipanic treatment are discussed.
Emotional regulation goals and strategies of teachers

This study addresses two questions: what goals do teachers have for their own emotional regulation, and what strategies do teachers report they use to regulate their own emotions. Data were collected from middle school teachers in North East Ohio, USA through a semi-structured interview. All but one of the teachers reported regulating their emotions and there were no gender or experience differences in spontaneously discussing emotional regulation. Teachers believed that regulating their emotions helped their teaching effectiveness goals and/or conformed to their idealized emotion image of a teacher. Teachers used a variety of preventative and responsive emotional regulation strategies to help them regulate their emotions. Future research on teachers’ emotional regulation goals and strategies should examine the role of culture and the relationship of emotional regulation goals with teachers’ other goals, stress, and coping.
Prevention of hepatocellular adenoma and correction of metabolic abnormalities in murine glycogen storage disease type Ia by gene therapy

Glycogen storage disease type Ia (GSD-Ia), which is characterized by impaired glucose homeostasis and chronic risk of hepatocellular adenoma (HCA), is caused by deficiencies in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-associated glucose-6-phosphatase-α (G6Pase-α or G6PC) that hydrolyzes glucose-6-phosphate (G6P) to glucose. G6Pase-α activity depends on the G6P transporter (G6PT) that translocates G6P from the cytoplasm into the ER lumen. The functional coupling of G6Pase-α and G6PT maintains interprandial glucose homeostasis. We have shown previously that gene therapy mediated by AAV-GPE, an adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector expressing G6Pase-α directed by the human G6PC promoter/enhancer (GPE), completely normalizes hepatic G6Pase-α deficiency in GSD-Ia (G6pc−/−) mice for at least 24 weeks. However, a recent study showed that within 78 weeks of gene deletion, all mice lacking G6Pase-α in the liver develop HCA. We now show that gene therapy mediated by AAV-GPE maintains efficacy for at least 70-90 weeks for mice expressing more than 3% of wild-type hepatic G6Pase-α activity. The treated mice displayed normal hepatic fat storage, had normal blood metabolite and glucose tolerance profiles, had reduced fasting blood insulin levels, maintained normoglycemia over a 24-hour fast, and had no evidence of hepatic abnormalities. After a 24-hour fast, hepatic G6PT messenger RNA levels in G6pc−/− mice receiving gene therapy were markedly increased. Because G6PT transport is the rate-limiting step in microsomal G6P metabolism, this may explain why the treated G6pc−/− mice could sustain prolonged fasts. The low fasting blood insulin levels and lack of hepatic steatosis may explain the absence of HCA. Conclusion: These results confirm that AAV-GPE–mediated gene transfer corrects hepatic G6Pase-α deficiency in murine GSD-Ia and prevents chronic HCA formation. (HEPATOLOGY 2012;56:1719–1729)
A validated cultural competence curriculum for US pediatric clerkships

Abstract Objective A 2006 national survey of pediatric clerkship directors revealed that only 25% taught cultural competence, but 81% expressed interest in a validated cultural competence curriculum. The authors designed and evaluated a multi-modality cultural competence curriculum for pediatric clerkships including a validated cultural knowledge test. Methods Curriculum content included two interactive workshops, multimedia web cases, and a Cultural and Linguistic Competence Pocket Guide. Evaluation included a student satisfaction survey, a Nominal Technique Focus Group, and a validated knowledge test. The knowledge test comprised 6 case studies with 49 multiple choice items covering the curricular content. Results Of 149/160 (93%) students who completed satisfaction surveys using a 5-point Likert scale, >82% strongly agreed or agreed that the curricular intervention was a meaningful experience (93%), increased their understanding of the culture of medicine (91%), increased their knowledge of racial and ethnic disparities (89%) and core cultural issues (91%), and improved their skills in working with interpreters (90%) and cross-cultural communication (82%). Top strengths identified by a focus group (34 students) included learning about interpreters, examples of cultural practices, and raised cultural awareness. Pre- and post-knowledge test scores improved by 17% (p Conclusions The authors successfully designed and validated a practical cultural competence curriculum for pediatric clerkships that meets the need demonstrated in the 2006 national survey. Practice implications This curriculum will enable pediatric clerkship directors to equip more graduates to provide culturally sensitive pediatric care to an increasingly diverse US population.
Tumor vascular permeabilization using localized mild hyperthermia to improve macromolecule transport

The abnormal tumor vasculature presents a major challenge to the adequate delivery of chemotherapeutics, often limiting efficacy. We developed a nanoparticle-based technique to deliver localized mild hyperthermia (MHT) used to transiently alter tumor vascular transport properties and enhance transport of macromolecules into tumor interstitium. The strategy involved administering and localizing accumulation of stealth gold nanorods (GNRs, 103 μg of GNRs/g of tumor), and irradiating tumor with a low-photon laser flux (1 W/cm(2)) to generate MHT. The treatment increased vascular permeability within 24 h after treatment, allowing enhanced transport of macromolecules up to 54 nm in size. A mathematical model is used to describe changes in tumor mass transport properties where the rate of macromolecular exchange between interstitial and vascular region (R) and maximum dye enhancement (Ymax) of 23-nm dextran dye is analytically solved. During enhanced permeability, R increased by 200% while Ymax increased by 30% relative to untreated group in pancreatic CAPAN-1 tumors. MHT treatment also enhanced transport of larger dextran dye (54 nm) as assessed by intravital microscopy, without causing occlusive cellular damage. Enhanced vascular transport was prolonged for up to 24 h after treatment, but reversible with transport parameters returning to basal levels after 36 h. This study indicates that localized mild hyperthermia treatment opens a transient time-window with which to enable and augment macromolecule transport and potentially improve therapeutic efficacy. From the clinical editor: In this study, local intra-tumor mild hyperthermia is induced using a nanoparticle-based approach utilizing stealth gold nanorods and irradiating the tumor with low-photon laser flux, resulting in locally increased vascular permeability enabling enhanced delivery of therapeutics, including macromolecules up to 54 nm in size. Similar approaches would be very helpful in addressing treatment-resistant malignancies in clinical practice.
Biotech Pilgrims and the Transnational Quest for Stem Cell Cures

Thousands of patients with incurable neurodegenerative conditions from more than 60 countries have sought fetal cell transplants in China since 2001. Drawing on 24 months of ethnographic fieldwork, I investigate these transnational encounters occurring in the realm of experimental medicine. Critiquing popular notions of “medical tourism,” I develop the alternative concept of “biotech pilgrimage” to reveal how faith intertwines with technology, travel, and the political economies of health care and medical research in a global era. Insights from pilgrimage theory enable us to question assumptions of leisure embedded in claims of tourism while also exploring new biopolitical practices that extend beyond the borders of the nation-state. I also demonstrate how materialist visions of salvation underlie medical practice and contribute to China's rising influence as a global technological leader.
Thomas Jefferson's Liberal Anticapitalism

This article reassesses Thomas Jefferson's political economy in light of debates about the influence of liberal and republican ideas on his thought. I argue that Jefferson embraced liberal premises, but used them to reach anticapitalist conclusions. He opposed neither commerce nor the prosperity it promised; he opposed working for a wage, and he did so on liberal grounds. The first section of this article shows that John Locke's theory of property turns on the justification of capitalist labor relations. The second section establishes, first, that Locke's argument played a decisive role in the development of Jefferson's own and, second, that Jefferson redefined its terms to fashion a forceful critique of wage labor. An examination of Jefferson's writings elucidates a neglected variant of the liberal tradition, prevalent in the United States until the Populist agitation. Its core is the stigma attached to working for hire as a diminished form of liberty, tantamount to wage slavery.
Decreased quality of life in children with hypothalamic hamartoma and treatment-resistant epilepsy.

We evaluated health-related quality of life in patients with hypothalamic hamartoma, to see how it differs from that of children with more common neurologic disorders. We used the PedsQL 4.0, along with the Child Behavior Checklist, Hague Seizure Severity Scale, and Side Effects Scale, to evaluate presurgical patients with hypothalamic hamartoma and epilepsy (n = 21). The results were compared with those of age-matched cohorts with migraine (n = 19) and Benign Epilepsy with Central Temporal Spikes (n = 11). In comparison with the migraine group, the patients with hypothalamic hamartoma had decreased health-related quality of life across all domains of the PedsQL 4.0. Compared with the benign epilepsy group, the hypothalamic hamartoma cohort has a significantly lower score in School Function. Comorbid psychomotor retardation was predictive of lower quality of life. Research examining the efficacy of recently developed surgical treatments for hypothalamic hamartoma should include health-related quality of l...
The sensitivity of bit error rate (BER) performance in multi-carrier (OFDM) and single-carrier

Recently, the single-carrier and multi-carrier transmissions have grabbed the attention of industrial systems. Theoretically, OFDM as a Multicarrier has more advantages over the Single-Carrier especially for high data rate. In this paper we will show which one of the two techniques outperforms the other. We will study and compare the performance of BER for both techniques for a given channel. As a function of signal to noise ratio SNR, the BER will be measure and studied. Also, Peak-to-Average Power Ratio (PAPR) is going to be examined and presented as a drawback of using OFDM. To make a reasonable comparison between the both techniques, we will use additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN) as a communication channel.
Individual-based Information Dissemination in Multilayer Epidemic Modeling

In epidemic modeling, the Susceptible-Alert-Infected-Susceptible (SAIS) model extends the SIS (Susceptible-Infected-Susceptible) model. In the SAIS model, “alert” individuals observe the health status of neighbors in their contact network, and as a result, they may adopt a set of cautious behaviors to reduce their infection rate. This alertness, when incorporated in the mathematical model, increases the range of effective/relative infection rates for which initial infections die out. Built upon the SAIS model, this work investigates how information dissemination further increases this range. Information dissemination is realized through an additional network (e.g., an online social network) sharing the contact network nodes (individuals) with different links. These “information links” provide the health status of one individual to all the individuals she is connected to in the information dissemination network. We propose an optimal information dissemination strategy with an index in quadratic form relative to the information dissemination network adjacency matrix and the dominant eigenvector of the contact network. Numerical tools to exactly solve steady state infection probabilities and influential thresholds are developed, providing an evaluative baseline for our information dissemination strategy. We show that monitoring the health status of a small but “central” subgroup of individuals and circulating their incidence information optimally enhances the resilience of the society against infectious diseases. Extensive numerical simulations on a survey–based contact network for a rural community in Kansas support these findings.
Beyond defensiveness: Feminist research strategies

Abstract In the course of doing research for a book on utopian fiction by women, it became evident that my formulation of the project constituted a trap, for it affirmed the very thing I wanted to challenge: the assumption of the centrality of utopias by men and the ‘otherness’ of works by women. As I reoriented my research, I came to see that this contradiction pervades much feminist scholarship and is present as well in the very notion of ‘Women's Studies’. This essay describes the process by which I came to identify the problem; how the techniques of defamiliarization and reversal pointed toward a solution; and the two research strategies that evolved. These strategies, both of which depend upon reversal of the usual rules of relevance and irrelevance, can be applied to feminist research endeavors in other fields as well.
‘Delivered By the Power of God’: Toward a Pentecostal Understanding of Salvation

Abstract: The quest to find a doctrinal framework that faithfully reflects Pentecostalism continues among Pentecostal theologians. Among the variety of proposals offered, a consensus has emerged on the centrality of the doctrine of salvation for a Pentecostal theology. Using theological models as a methodological approach, the claim is made that a Pentecostal theology best functions within a model of salvation that can be expressed in terms of two dominant metaphors: acquisition of God's life and deliverance. Consequently, a Pentecostal understanding of salvation concerns the ongoing deliverance from sin in all of its permutations through the increasing acquisition of God's triune life.
The ribosomal DNA transcription unit of the house cricket, Acheta domesticus.

A composite map representing a single ribosomal DNA repeat unit of the house cricket,Acheta domesticus, was constructed from overlapping cloned fragments. Sites in the repeat unit for nine restriction enzymes were mapped. R-loop mapping of sequences coding for 18 S and 28 S RNA demonstrates that the 58-kb ribosomal DNA repeat unit contains a novel-sized internal transcribed spacer of 8.4 kb. The existence of this large spacer was confirmed in genomic DNA, most if not all of the genomic repeat units containing such a spacer. A 15- to 17-kb ribosomal RNA precursor transcript is synthesized as predicted on the basis of the size of the internal transcribed spacer. The 5.8 S RNA gene is localized to a 1-kb sequence immediately 5′ to the 28 S gene. The coding regions examined contain no intervening sequences analogous to those described within ribosomal DNA of other eukaryotes. Only 11% of the repeat unit codes for mature ribosomal RNA, while the remainder is nontranscribed (71%) and transcribed (18%) spacer DNA.
Worst-case optimal redistribution of VCG payments

For allocation problems with one or more items, the well-known Vickrey-Clarke-Groves (VCG) mechanism is efficient, strategy-proof, individually rational, and does not incur a deficit. However, the VCG mechanism is not (strongly) budget balanced: generally, the agents' payments will sum to more than 0. If there is an auctioneer who is selling the items, this may be desirable, because the surplus payment corresponds to revenue for the auctioneer. However, if the items do not have an owner and the agents are merely interested in allocating the items efficiently among themselves, any surplus payment is undesirable, because it will have to flow out of the system of agents. In 2006, Cavallo [3] proposed a mechanism that redistributes some of the VCG payment back to the agents, while maintaining efficiency, strategy-proofness, individual rationality, and the non-deficit property. In this paper, we extend this result in a restricted setting. We study allocation settings where there are multiple indistinguishable units of a single good, and agents have unit demand. (For this specific setting, Cavallo's mechanism coincides with a mechanism proposed by Bailey in 1997 [2].) Here we propose a family of mechanisms that redistribute some of the VCG payment back to the agents. All mechanisms in the family are efficient, strategy-proof, individually rational, and never incur a deficit. The family includes the Bailey-Cavallo mechanism as a special case. We then provide an optimization model for finding the optimal mechanism--that is, the mechanism that maximizes redistribution in the worst case--inside the family, and show how to cast this model as a linear program. We give both numerical and analytical solutions of this linear program, and the (unique) resulting mechanism shows significant improvement over the Bailey-Cavallo mechanism (in the worst case). Finally, we prove that the obtained mechanism is optimal among all anonymous deterministic mechanisms that satisfy the above properties.
Factors Related to Physicians' Attitudes and Beliefs toward Drug Information Sources

Through the use of a mail questionnaire, factors related to physicians' attitudes and beliefs toward seven drug information sources were investigated. A sample of 108 physicians was obtained from a large health maintenance organization (HMO). Responses were obtained to questions on past use, ease of use, emotional response to use, quality of information on harmful effects and drug efficacy, colleagues' opinions, degree of usefulness and availability, and intention to use. The results show that physicians differ on each of the above factors, depending upon the source of drug information. Future studies should include an analysis of these factors when investigating physicians' use of drug information sources.
The Chondrocutaneous Helical Rim Advancement Flap of Antia and Buch

background The cutaneous surgeon commonly encounters defects of the helix, as 2–4% of all skin cancers occur at this site. objective We report our experience with 47 patients using the chondrocutaneous helical rim advancement flap of Antia and Buch. methods Incisions are made from the defect inferiorly into the lobule and, when necessary, superiorly along the helical sulcus into the helical crus. The postauricular skin is extensively undermined to allow maximal movement of the resulting broad-based, well-vascularized flap(s). results We experienced very favorable results using this technique with our patients. No necrosis due to ischemia occurred in any of our cases. Hematomas formed postoperatively in two patients, but healing proceeded uneventfully after removal of coagulated blood. conclusion This technique is an excellent method of repairing many defects of the helical rim. Its advantages include technical simplicity, little risk of tip necrosis, patient convenience, and superior cosmesis.
Gold Nanowires for the Detection of Elemental and Ionic Mercury

We demonstrate for the first time the use of Au nanowires for the electrical detection of elemental and ionic mercury. By monitoring changes in resistance upon exposure to Hg vapor, concentrations as low as 6.25 μg/m 3 (2 X 10 -10 M or 5 ppb) were detected. Similarly, we used HgCl 2 in an aqueous solution as a source for Hg ions and were able to detect Hg 2+ concentrations as low as 10 -8 M. We also demonstrate the impact of the sensor surface to volume ratio, substantiate the model of a surface origin for the sensitivity, and underscore the advantages of the Au nanowire structure over the thin-film structure for Hg sensing.
Juvenile hormone action : A 2007 perspective

Juvenile hormone (JH) is a key hormone in regulation of the insect's life history, both in maintaining the larval state during molts and in directing reproductive maturation. This short review highlights the recent papers of the past year that lend new insight into the role of this hormone in the larva and the mechanisms whereby it achieves this role.
VibroGlove: an assistive technology aid for conveying facial expressions

In this paper, a novel interface is described for enhancing human-human interpersonal interactions. Specifically, the device is targeted as an assistive aid to deliver the facial expressions of an interaction partner to people who are blind or visually impaired. Vibro-tactors, mounted on the back of a glove, provide a means for conveying haptic emoticons that represent the six basic human emotions and the neutral expression of the user's interaction partner. The detailed design of the haptic interface and haptic icons of expressions are presented, along with a user study involving a subject who is blind, as well as sighted, blind-folded participants. Results reveal the potential for enriching social communication for people with visual disabilities.
X-Ray and Magnetization Studies of Cr-Modified Mn 2 Sb

The three magnetic states which occur in the Cr-modified ${\mathrm{Mn}}_{2}$Sb system have been studied by measurements of magnetization, torque, and x-ray lattice cell dimension on single crystals. The exchange inversion transitions between magnetic states for a given composition are shown by x ray to be first order. The field dependence of magnetization allows differentiation of the three magnetic states which exhibit ferrimagnetic, intermediate, and antiferromagnetic spin configurations. Torque and magnetization measurements show that for both the ferrimagnetic and antiferromagnetic states there is a change from positive to negative uniaxial anisotropy with decreasing temperature.
Growth kinetics of faceted solid-liquid interfaces and kinetic roughening

Abstract We have recently carried out a detailed investigation of interfacial kinetics of Ga growing into supercooled melt. The dislocation-assisted and dislocation-free growth rates were measured in the range of 10 −3 to 2×10 4 μm/s and interfacial supercoolings in the range 0.01 to 4.5°C for the [111] and [001] crystal orientations. The experiments show that the faceted interfaces become nonfaceted, “kinetically rough”, as the interface supercooling increases. The faceted-nonfaceted transition temperature depends on the orientation and perfection of the interface with respect to dislocation(s). The results are compared to those predicted from the existing theoretical rate equations which show qualitative agreement but not quantitative. In order to obtain quantitative agreement between the two, the liquid next to the interface should be considered as “diffuse” so that its average properties gradually attain those of the bulk; in this region the interfacial diffusivity is much smaller than the liquid self-diffusion coefficient. Moreover, the step free energy, which becomes negligible as the interface becomes kinetically rough, should be taken as a function of the interface supercooling.
Thermal Performance and Reliability of Large-Area Bonded Interfaces in Power Electronics Packages

In automotive power electronics packages (e.g., insulated gate bipolar transistor [IGBT] packages), conventional polymeric thermal interface materials (TIMs) such as greases, gels, and phase-change materials pose a bottleneck to heat removal and are also associated with reliability concerns. High thermal performance bonded interfaces have become an industry trend. However, due to mismatches in the coefficient of thermal expansion between materials/layers and the resultant thermomechanical stresses, there could be voids and crack formations in these bonded interfaces as well as delaminations, which pose a problem from a reliability standpoint. These defects manifest themselves in increased thermal resistance in the package, which acts as a bottleneck to heat removal from the package. Hence, the objective of this research is to investigate and improve the thermal performance and reliability of novel bonded interface materials for power electronics packaging applications. Thermal performance and reliability of bonds/joints is presented for bonds based on a thermoplastic (polyamide) adhesive with embedded micron-sized carbon fibers, sintered silver (Ag), and conventional lead (Pb)-based solder materials. These materials form a bond between 50.8 mm × 50.8 mm footprint direct-bond-copper (DBC) substrate and copper (Cu) base plate samples. Samples undergo thermal cycling (−40°C to 150°C) for up to 2,000 cycles as an upper limit. Damage occurrence is monitored every 100 temperature cycles by several non-destructive techniques, including steady-state thermal resistance measurement, acoustic microscopy, and high-voltage potential testing. This yields a consistent story on the thermal performance and reliability of large-area joints under accelerated stress conditions.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Metabolism of H2 by Desulfovibrio alaskensis G20 during syntrophic growth on lactate

Syntrophic growth involves the oxidation of organic compounds and subsequent transfer of electrons to an H(2)- or formate-consuming micro-organism. In order to identify genes involved specifically in syntrophic growth, a mutant library of Desulfovibrio alaskensis G20 was screened for loss of the ability to grow syntrophically with Methanospirillum hungatei JF-1. A collection of 20 mutants with an impaired ability to grow syntrophically was obtained. All 20 mutants grew in pure culture on lactate under sulfidogenic conditions at a rate and to a maximum OD(600) similar to those of the parental strain. The largest number of mutations that affected syntrophic growth with lactate was in genes encoding proteins involved in H(2) oxidation, electron transfer, hydrogenase post-translational modification, pyruvate degradation and signal transduction. The qrcB gene, encoding a quinone reductase complex (Qrc), and cycA, encoding the periplasmic tetrahaem cytochrome c(3) (TpIc(3)), were required by G20 to grow syntrophically with lactate. A mutant in the hydA gene, encoding an Fe-only hydrogenase (Hyd), is also impaired in syntrophic growth with lactate. The other mutants grew more slowly than the parental strain in syntrophic culture with M. hungatei JF-1. qrcB and cycA were shown previously to be required for growth of G20 pure cultures with H(2) and sulfate. Washed cells of the parental strain produced H(2) from either lactate or pyruvate, but washed cells of qrcB, cycA and hydA mutants produced H(2) at rates similar to the parental strain from pyruvate and did not produce significant amounts of H(2) from lactate. Real-time quantitative PCR assays showed increases in expression of the above three genes during syntrophic growth compared with pure-culture growth with lactate and sulfate. Our work shows that Hyd, Qrc and TpIc(3) are involved in H(2) production during syntrophic lactate metabolism by D. alaskensis G20 and emphasizes the importance of H(2) production for syntrophic lactate metabolism in this strain.
MOTHER FATHER DEAF: THE HERITAGE OF DIFFERENCE

Almost 90% of the children born to life-long profoundly deaf parents are hearing. Within this extraordinary family setting, hearing children of deaf parents are exposed to and interact with two differing cultural, social and linguistic systems: that of their deaf parents and the Deaf community, and that of hearing peers and adults. The present paper focuses on cultural identity and affiliation of hearing children of deaf parents--a population whose lives incorporate the paradox of being culturally 'Deaf' and yet functionally hearing. Data reported here are primarily based on interviews and life histories with 150 adult hearing children of deaf parents throughout the United States. The informants in this study provide an opportunity to explore the parameters and norms of Deaf culture as it contrasts and conflicts with those of Hearing culture.
Moderate dose, three-drug therapy with niacin, lovastatin, and colestipol to reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol <100 mg/dl in patients with hyperlipidemia and coronary artery disease

The efficacy, safety, and tolerability of a moderate dose, 3-drug lipid-lowering regimen were evaluated among 29 male patients with hyperlipidemia and coronary artery disease. In an initial 12-month phase, regular niacin, 500 mg qid, lovastatin, 20 mg bid, and colestipol, 10 g/bid, were given with dose adjustment for lipid targets and side effects. This was followed by 2 random sequence crossover phases (8 months each) alternating regular niacin with a polygel controlled-release formulation of niacin for use in this regimen. Lipid, lipoprotein, apoprotein, and clinical chemistry determinations were obtained at baseline, during the initial phase, at the 2 crossover phases, and at 6 weeks after therapy. A final questionnaire queried specific side effects and overall preferences. Low-/high-density lipoprotein (LDL/HDL) changed from means of 215/46 mg/dl at baseline, to 94/59 mg/dl after run-in, to 85/52 mg/dl after 8 months of controlled-release niacin, and to 98/56 mg/dl after 8 months of regular niacin (regular niacin vs controlled-release niacin, p <0.005/<0.05). The target of LDL < or = 100 mg/dl was achieved at 8 months by 83% of these patients with controlled-release niacin and by 52% with regular niacin (p <0.01). Compliance was 95% with controlled-release niacin versus 85% with regular niacin (p <0.001). The controlled-release niacin and regular niacin regimens did not differ in terms of uric acid, glucose, insulin, or asparate aminotransferase levels. Overall, 21% of patients called the 3 drugs "very easy" and 72% "fairly easy" to take. The controlled-release niacin-containing regimen was preferred by 21 patients and the regular niacin by 4. In conclusion, these regimens achieve striking lipid changes among hyperlipidemic patients. Controlled release is the preferred niacin preparation in terms of LDL reduction, compliance, patient preference, and achieving the National Cholesterol Education Program guideline of LDL < or = 100 mg/dl. The 2 niacin preparations did not differ in evidence of toxicity.
Impact of Screening Colonoscopy on Outcomes in Colon Cancer Surgery

Importance Screening colonoscopy seemingly decreases colorectal cancer rates in the United States. In addition to removing benign lesions and preventing progression to malignancy, screening colonoscopy theoretically identifies asymptomatic patients with early-stage disease, potentially leading to higher survival rates. Objectives To assess the effect of screening colonoscopy on outcomes of colon cancer surgery by reviewing differences in staging, disease-free interval, risk of recurrence, and survival and to identify whether diagnosis through screening improves long-term outcomes independent of staging. Design Retrospective review of prospectively maintained, institutional review board–approved database. Setting Tertiary care center with high patient volume. Patients All patients who underwent colon cancer surgery at Massachusetts General Hospital from January 1, 2004, through December 31, 2011. Intervention Colon cancer surgery. Main Outcomes and Measures Postoperative staging, death, and recurrence, measured as incidence and time to event. Results A total of 1071 patients were included, with 217 diagnosed through screening. Patients not diagnosed through screening were at risk for a more invasive tumor (≥T3: relative risk [RR] = 1.96; P P P P P = .004) as well as shorter survival ( P P P = .02) and survival duration ( P = .01) were better stage for stage with diagnosis through screening. Death and metastasis rates also remained significantly lower in tumors without nodal or metastatic spread (all P Conclusions and Relevance Patients with colon cancer identified on screening colonoscopy not only have lower-stage disease on presentation but also have better outcomes independent of their staging. Compliance to screening colonoscopy guidelines can play an important role in prolonging longevity, improving quality of life, and reducing health care costs through early detection of colon cancer.
Lineage mapping the pre-implantation mouse embryo by two-photon microscopy, new insights into the segregation of cell fates

The first lineage segregation in the pre-implantation mouse embryo gives rise to cells of the inner cell mass and the trophectoderm. Segregation into these two lineages during the 8-cell to 32-cell stages is accompanied by a significant amount of cell displacement, and as such it has been difficult to accurately track cellular behavior using conventional imaging techniques. Consequently, how cellular behaviors correlate with cell fate choices is still not fully understood. To achieve the high spatial and temporal resolution necessary for tracking individual cell lineages, we utilized two-photon light-scanning microscopy (TPLSM) to visualize and follow every cell in the embryo using fluorescent markers. We found that cells undergoing asymmetric cell fate divisions originate from a unique population of cells that have been previously classified as either outer or inner cells. This imaging technique coupled with a tracking algorithm we developed allows us to show that these cells, which we refer to as intermediate cells, share features of inner cells but exhibit different dynamic behaviors and a tendency to expose their cell surface in the mouse embryo between the fourth and fifth cleavages. We provide an accurate description of the correlation between cell division order and cell fate, and demonstrate that cell cleavage angle is a more accurate indicator of cellular polarity than cell fate. Our studies demonstrate the utility of two-photon imaging in answering questions in the pre-implantation field that have previously been difficult or impossible to address. Our studies provide a framework for the future use of specific markers to track cell fate molecularly and with high accuracy.
Voting with Their Feet (VWF) Endpoint: A Meta-Analysis of an Alternative Endpoint in Clinical Trials, Using 5-ASA Induction Studies in Ulcerative Colitis

Background: Strict clinical remission endpoints in ulcerative colitis (UC) trials produce low remission rates and do not reflect the good outcomes of UC therapy. We proposed the use of the VWF (Voting With their Feet) endpoint, the percentage of subjects leaving a randomized controlled trial (RCT) arm for lack of efficacy). The aims were 1) to determine if the VWF endpoint can be extracted from 5-aminosalicylate (5-ASA) RCTs in UC; 2) to perform meta-analyses of VWF and clinical remission (CR) endpoints; and 3) to determine the statistical power of the VWF endpoint. Methods: Fixed effects meta-analysis and power calculations were used. Results: In 5 studies, including 1048 subjects, 9.5% of patients left 5-ASA study arms for lack of efficacy, versus 28.3% leaving placebo. The rate of failure to achieve CR was 68.2% with 5-ASA, versus 86.9% with placebo. The relative risk (RR) of treatment failure for 5-ASA using the VWF endpoint was 0.33 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.24–0.44), which was significantly smaller than with the CR endpoint (RR 0.81, 95% CI 0.76–0.88). The statistical power of VWF was slightly greater than CR. Conclusions: VWF is inexpensive, intuitive, and has similar statistical power to CR. The VWF endpoint can confirm the validity of outcome measures in clinical trials, and estimate real-world clinical efficacy. (Inflamm Bowel Dis 2008)
Uncertainty in the Cost-Effectiveness of Federal Air Quality Regulations

In this study, we conduct a cost-effectiveness analysis of nine air quality regulations recently issued by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Taking emission reductions in the Regulatory Impact Analyses (RIAs) for these regulations as given, we independently assess uncertainty about the compliance costs of the regulations and the lives the regulations are estimated to save. The latter evaluation is based on a formal uncertainty analysis that integrates expert judgments about the effects of fine particle exposures on mortality risks. These expert judgments were given in an EPA-sponsored elicitation study conducted in 2006. The integrated judgments are used to generate probability distributions for several types of cost-effectiveness ratios, including the gross and net cost per life saved, net cost per life year saved, and net cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained. The results show that the cost-effectiveness ratios exhibit considerable uncertainty individually and also vary widely across regulations. Within a simulated 90% confidence interval for the gross cost per life saved, for example, there is both the possibility that benefits from lifesavings alone are sufficient to cover the rules’ costs and the possibility that no lives will be saved and cost-effectiveness ratios will be infinite. The wide ranges for the confidence intervals suggest the need for better information about the effects of fine particle exposures on mortality risks.
Outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy practices among adult infectious disease physicians.

Objective. To identify current outpatient parenteral antibiotic therapy practice patterns and complications. Methods. We administered an 11-question survey to adult infectious disease physicians participating in the Emerging Infections Network (EIN), a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention-sponsored sentinel event surveillance network in North America. The survey was distributed electronically or via facsimile in November and December 2012. Respondent demographic characteristics were obtained from EIN enrollment data. Results. Overall, 555 (44.6%) of EIN members responded to the survey, with 450 (81%) indicating that they treated 1 or more patients with outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) during an average month. Infectious diseases consultation was reported to be required for a patient to be discharged with OPAT by 99 respondents (22%). Inpatient (282 [63%] of 449) and outpatient (232 [52%] of 449) infectious diseases physicians were frequently identified as being responsible for monitoring laboratory results. Only 26% (118 of 448) had dedicated OPAT teams at their clinical site. Few infectious diseases physicians have systems to track errors, adverse events, or "near misses" associated with OPAT (97 [22%] of 449). OPAT-associated complications were perceived to be rare. Among respondents, 80% reported line occlusion or clotting as the most common complication (occurring in 6% of patients or more), followed by nephrotoxicity and rash (each reported by 61%). Weekly laboratory monitoring of patients who received vancomycin was reported by 77% of respondents (343 of 445), whereas 19% of respondents (84 of 445) reported twice weekly laboratory monitoring for these patients. Conclusions. Although use of OPAT is common, there is significant variation in practice patterns. More uniform OPAT practices may enhance patient safety.
Implementing waveform shaping filters to pre-equalize gain and phase distortion of the analog signal processing path in DSP based modems

The shaping filter in a DSP based transmitter must perform a number of simultaneous signal processing tasks prior to delivering digital samples to its digital-to-analog converter (DAC) and analog smoothing filter. The primary task is spectral shaping with a specified up-sampling rate (to permit large transition bandwidth in the analog smoothing filter following the DAC). A secondary task is compensation for spectral gain and phase distortion introduced in the analog signal processing chain following the digital shaping filter. Distortion effects include the DAC's sin(x)/(x) spectral response and the non-uniform gain and phase response of the analog smoothing filter following the DAC. This paper presents a technique for incorporating arbitrary gain and phase corrections in the digital shaping filter. >