Elif Baris | Pharmacology | Excellence in Research Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Elif Baris | Pharmacology | Excellence in Research Award

İzmir University of Economics | Turkey

Elif Baris is an Assistant Professor of Medical Pharmacology at Izmir University of Economics, specializing in molecular pharmacology with a strong focus on inflammation, pain physiology, and cholinergic anti-inflammatory mechanisms. She holds a pharmacy degree and a doctoral qualification in medical pharmacology from Dokuz Eylül University, and has developed expertise in cytokine signaling, oxidative stress, neuroimmune modulation, molecular oncology, stem cell immunoregulation, and sepsis models. Her professional experience includes leading and contributing to numerous multidisciplinary research projects supported by national and institutional scientific bodies, alongside collaborations with prominent medical and biotechnology institutions. Her research interests extend to autonomic nervous system pharmacology, neuroimmune interactions, mechanotransduction through TRPV4 channels, and innovative drug repurposing strategies. She possesses strong research skills in qRT-PCR, Western blotting, ELISA, cytokine arrays, flow cytometry, and real-time cell analysis, supported by extensive publications in indexed journals and multiple patents involving varenicline- and choline-based therapeutic applications. She has received recognition through collaborative roles in funded research, chapter authorship in academic publications, and contributions to translational pharmacology. Her professional memberships include national societies in pharmacology and physiology, reflecting her commitment to scientific advancement. With her growing contributions to drug innovation, inflammation therapeutics, and molecular pharmacology, she continues to advance impactful research aimed at improving mechanisms of pain management and immune regulation.

Profile: Google scholar

Featured Publications

Baris, E., Efe, H., Gumustekin, M., Arici, M. A., & Tosun, M. (2021). Varenicline prevents LPS-induced inflammatory response via nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in RAW 264.7 macrophages. Frontiers in Molecular Biosciences, 8, 721533. [15 citations]

Baris, E., Simsek, O., Arici, M. A., & Tosun, M. (2023). Choline and citicoline ameliorate oxidative stress in acute kidney injury in rats. Bratislava Medical Journal / Bratislavské Lekárske Listy, 124(1). [12 citations]

Baris, E., Simsek, O., Efe, H., Oncu, S., Gelal, A., Hamurtekin, E., Tosun, M., … (2021). Effects of CDP-choline and choline on COX pathway in LPS-induced inflammatory response in rats. International Journal of Pharmacology, 17(2), 84–96. [10 citations]

Baris, E., Arici, M. A., & Tosun, M. (2024). Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor-mediated effects of varenicline on LPS-elevated prostaglandin and cyclooxygenase levels in RAW 264.7 macrophages. Frontiers in Molecular Biosciences, 11, 1392689. [4 citations]

 

Hongru Li | Brain Metastasis | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Hongru Li | Brain Metastasis | Best Researcher Award

Fuzhou University Affiliated Provincial Hospital | China

Dr. Hongru Li, MD/PhD, is a distinguished clinician-scientist and Chief Physician in the Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine at Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fujian Medical University. With a career dedicated to advancing respiratory medicine and oncology, his expertise lies in lung cancer, metastasis mechanisms, and innovative therapeutic strategies. Over the years, he has combined clinical excellence with groundbreaking research, focusing on molecular pathways and targeted therapies. Dr. Li has published extensively in reputable journals, contributing to understanding brain and bone metastasis in non-small cell lung cancer. His leadership extends to supervising clinical innovation projects funded by national and provincial research grants. Recognized as an outstanding respiratory scholar, he has made notable contributions in translational medicine, bridging laboratory findings with patient care. His research on nanoliposomes, ceramide pathways, and genetic susceptibility in lung cancer exemplifies his commitment to improving treatment outcomes and patient survival in respiratory oncology.

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Education

Dr. Hongru Li’s academic foundation is firmly rooted in medicine and specialized respiratory science. He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree at Fujian Medical University, where he developed his core clinical knowledge and interest in pulmonary health. To deepen his expertise, he pursued postgraduate studies in respiratory medicine at Fujian Medical University, gaining hands-on exposure to advanced diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in pulmonary and critical care. His academic journey culminated with a PhD in Respiratory Medicine from Southern Medical University in Guangzhou, where he focused on molecular mechanisms of lung cancer progression and metastasis. His doctoral research provided a solid grounding in translational medicine, integrating clinical insights with cellular and molecular biology. This comprehensive educational background has enabled him to pursue a career balancing patient care with high-impact research, positioning him as a leader in respiratory medicine, oncology, and translational research with a strong focus on innovation and clinical application.

Experience

Dr. Hongru Li has accumulated extensive clinical and academic experience at Fujian Provincial Hospital, where he has advanced through progressive leadership roles in respiratory and critical care medicine. Starting as a resident doctor, he gained experience in managing complex respiratory cases, developing proficiency in critical care interventions. He then served as an attending doctor, where he refined his clinical judgment and mentored junior staff. His expertise led to his appointment as Associate Chief Physician, where he oversaw specialized clinical programs and research initiatives. Currently, as Chief Physician, Dr. Li leads the Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, managing advanced patient care, research collaborations, and clinical training. His responsibilities span from clinical decision-making to developing research projects funded by provincial and national agencies. With deep involvement in translational research, he bridges laboratory discoveries with real-world patient care, positioning him as both a skilled clinician and an innovative medical researcher.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Hongru Li has been recognized for his exceptional contributions to clinical medicine, research innovation, and academic excellence. Early in his career, he received the Excellent Graduate Award and Excellent Postgraduate Award from Fujian Medical University, reflecting his academic dedication and professional promise. His trajectory of excellence was further reinforced with the prestigious Outstanding Youth Respiratory Scholar Award for Clinical Innovation in China, acknowledging his groundbreaking research and leadership in respiratory medicine. These honors underscore his commitment to advancing lung cancer research, patient care, and translational medicine. His ability to secure competitive research funding and lead innovative studies further reflects his recognition as a trusted expert in his field. In addition, his patents and numerous peer-reviewed publications highlight the impact of his scientific contributions. These accolades collectively demonstrate not only his academic excellence but also his role as a leading physician-researcher shaping the future of respiratory and oncology medicine.

Research Focus

Dr. Hongru Li’s research centers on the molecular mechanisms driving lung cancer progression and metastasis, with particular emphasis on brain and bone metastases in non-small cell lung cancer. He explores signaling pathways, genetic susceptibility, and the role of lipids and ceramide metabolism in tumor development. His studies have investigated proteins such as livin, RPTOR, and ceramide synthase in regulating tumor proliferation, apoptosis, and metastatic spread. Through innovative approaches, including nanoliposome-based therapies, he seeks to inhibit cancer metastasis and improve treatment responses. He has also examined genetic polymorphisms and signaling cascades, such as the PI3K/AKT/mTOR and Wnt pathways, to understand cancer susceptibility and therapy resistance. His translational research aims to transform laboratory findings into clinical applications, offering new diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Supported by national and provincial grants, his work significantly contributes to advancing precision medicine, improving survival, and developing novel treatment strategies for patients with lung cancer.

 

Publications

 

Title: KLF9 Inhibits Brain Metastasis of Non‐Small Cell Lung Cancer by Regulating Ceramide Synthase 1 Synthesis
Year: 2025

Title: Efficacy of Prophylactic Cranial Irradiation in Early to Mid-stage Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients in the Era of Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Year: 2024

Title: Development and validation of a nomogram model based on blood-based genomic mutation signature for predicting the risk of brain metastases in non-small cell lung cancer
Year: 2024

Title: Antibacterial effect of phage cocktails and phage-antibiotic synergy against pathogenic Klebsiella pneumoniae
Year: 2024

Title: Clinical application value of metagenome next-generation sequencing in pulmonary diffuse exudative lesions: a retrospective study
Year: 2024

Title: Successful treatment of severe lung cancer caused by third-generation EGFR-TKI resistance due to EGFR genotype conversion with afatinib plus anlotinib
Year: 2024

Title: RPTOR blockade suppresses brain metastases of NSCLC by interfering the ceramide metabolism via hijacking YY1 binding
Year: 2024

Conclusion

Dr. Hongru Li exemplifies the integration of clinical expertise and research innovation, dedicated to advancing respiratory and cancer medicine through groundbreaking studies, translational discoveries, and compassionate patient care.

Marialuisa Longo | Orthodontics | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Marialuisa Longo | Orthodontics | Best Researcher Award

University of Bari “Aldo Moro” | Italy

Dr. Marialuisa Longo is a dedicated academic and researcher at the University of Bari “Aldo Moro,” specializing in orthodontics and dentistry. Her work integrates both clinical expertise and research-driven innovation, with a strong commitment to enhancing patient care through advanced methodologies and digital tools. Through her contributions, she has helped bridge the gap between traditional orthodontic practices and modern technological approaches. Her scholarly output includes several peer-reviewed journal publications that highlight her impact on improving treatment effectiveness and patient experience. She is an active member of professional organizations such as SIDO, SUSO, and AIDOR, which reflects her commitment to professional development and collaborative knowledge exchange. Dr. Longo’s research and academic endeavors exemplify a balance between theory and practice, making her contributions valuable to both scientific advancement and clinical applications. With a clear vision of advancing dental sciences, she continues to inspire innovation and quality care in orthodontics.

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Education

Dr. Marialuisa Longo pursued her academic journey at the University of Bari “Aldo Moro,” where she developed her expertise in dentistry and orthodontics. Her education was marked by rigorous training in both theoretical knowledge and practical applications, equipping her with the skills necessary to excel in academic and clinical practice. The curriculum emphasized an interdisciplinary approach, fostering her understanding of advanced orthodontic methodologies, patient-centered care, and integration of emerging technologies into dental practice. Throughout her education, Dr. Longo was actively involved in research-oriented learning, which laid the foundation for her later scholarly contributions. She demonstrated a strong aptitude for critical thinking, clinical problem-solving, and innovation in dental sciences. Her academic preparation provided her with a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of oral health and orthodontics, shaping her career as both a practitioner and a researcher. The combination of scientific rigor and clinical immersion during her education defines her academic excellence.

Experience

Dr. Marialuisa Longo has cultivated her professional experience at the University of Bari “Aldo Moro,” where she combines academic research, teaching, and clinical practice in dentistry and orthodontics. Her professional journey reflects a dedication to advancing orthodontic treatment through innovative techniques and interdisciplinary collaborations. She has authored several peer-reviewed journal articles that demonstrate her ability to translate scientific knowledge into practical solutions. Her work emphasizes enhancing treatment effectiveness, patient comfort, and the integration of digital tools into modern orthodontic practice. Through her memberships in professional organizations such as SIDO, SUSO, and AIDOR, Dr. Longo engages with the wider dental community, ensuring her work remains informed by global standards and contemporary developments. Her experience is also characterized by mentoring and contributing to the academic development of students, fostering the next generation of dental professionals. The combination of clinical, research, and academic experience makes her a versatile and impactful contributor to dentistry.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Marialuisa Longo’s academic and professional achievements reflect recognition of her contributions to the field of dentistry and orthodontics. Her published research in peer-reviewed journals showcases her commitment to advancing knowledge and improving clinical practice, earning respect within the scientific community. As an active member of prestigious professional associations such as SIDO, SUSO, and AIDOR, she has gained acknowledgment for her engagement in collaborative research and clinical excellence. While her career is still evolving, the quality and significance of her work demonstrate award-worthy accomplishments in integrating innovative technologies with orthodontic care. Her recognition extends beyond publications to her role as a contributor to the academic and clinical missions of the University of Bari “Aldo Moro.” Her ongoing commitment to excellence, coupled with her dedication to patient-focused research and practice, positions her as a promising and deserving candidate for professional honors and awards within the dental sciences.

Research Focus

Dr. Marialuisa Longo’s research focuses on orthodontics and the development of innovative strategies that improve patient care and clinical efficiency. She is particularly interested in integrating digital tools and advanced technologies into traditional orthodontic practices, making treatments more precise, effective, and comfortable for patients. Her published works highlight her contributions to bridging the gap between clinical methodologies and scientific research, ensuring that innovation is directly applied in real-world practice. By collaborating across disciplines within the University of Bari “Aldo Moro,” she contributes to the adoption of evidence-based techniques that transform orthodontic outcomes. Her focus also extends to improving patient experience, emphasizing comfort and efficiency in treatment protocols. Through active involvement in professional associations, she continually aligns her research with the evolving standards of global dentistry. Dr. Longo’s research represents a blend of academic rigor and clinical practicality, aimed at advancing orthodontics through innovation and patient-centered approaches.

Conclusion

Dr. Marialuisa Longo exemplifies the spirit of innovation and dedication in orthodontics through her research, clinical practice, and academic contributions at the University of Bari “Aldo Moro,” where she continuously strives to integrate modern technologies, enhance patient care, and contribute to the global advancement of dentistry, making her an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Muhammad Saeed | Clinical Research | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Muhammad Saeed | Clinical Research | Best Researcher Award

PRX Research | United States

Dr. Muhammad  Saeed is a highly accomplished physician and clinical research leader with extensive expertise in advancing medical innovation. He has dedicated his career to bridging clinical practice and research, focusing on infectious diseases, chronic illnesses, and novel therapeutics. With a foundation in medicine from Dow Medical College, he progressed to leadership positions in multiple U.S.-based clinical research centers, where he directed diverse clinical trials across infectious diseases, neurology, oncology, cardiology, and respiratory medicine. His contributions extend to both academia and industry, including collaborative work with prestigious global institutions. Dr. Saeed’s scholarly work encompasses book chapters and peer-reviewed publications that highlight his dedication to evidence-based medicine and medical education. Beyond his scientific contributions, he is recognized for mentoring young professionals and promoting ethical research practices. His blend of clinical acumen, research excellence, and leadership has positioned him as a key figure in modern translational research and therapeutic development.

Profile

ORCID

Education

Dr. Muhammad Saeed’s academic journey reflects a commitment to excellence and lifelong learning. He earned his Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) from Dow Medical College, University of Karachi, laying the groundwork for his career in clinical medicine and research. His early training emphasized core competencies in surgery and internal medicine, which provided him with strong clinical insights that continue to inform his research leadership. He later pursued advanced studies at Johns Hopkins University, where he completed a Master of Science, equipping him with rigorous training in epidemiology, clinical trial design, and evidence-based research methodologies. His education also includes formative years at Habib Public School in Karachi, where he achieved GCE O’ Levels under the University of Cambridge Local Examination Syndicate. This broad educational foundation, spanning global institutions of repute, has allowed him to integrate strong clinical skills with research innovation, shaping his role as a physician-scientist and educator.

Experience

Dr. Muhammad Saeed’s professional experience spans diverse roles in clinical medicine and research. He began his medical career as a resident physician at Civil Hospital Karachi, training in surgery and medicine. His early exposure to hospital-based care was complemented by research responsibilities at Aga Khan University Hospital, where he worked as a Clinical Research Associate on infectious diseases and public health projects. Transitioning to the United States, he held leadership positions at Advanced Clinical Research Associates in Plano, HRMD Research in Dallas, and later Dallas Regional Medical Center and PRX Research in Mesquite, where he currently serves as Clinical Research Director. In these roles, he has overseen numerous multicenter, international clinical trials across therapeutic areas including oncology, neurology, cardiology, infectious diseases, and COVID-19. His leadership ensures regulatory compliance, patient safety, and high-quality outcomes in research. This experience highlights his ability to integrate patient care, research innovation, and administrative excellence.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Muhammad Saeed has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to clinical research, academic medicine, and patient-centered healthcare. His work in infectious disease research and clinical trial leadership has earned him respect among peers in both academic and industry settings. He has collaborated with leading researchers globally, resulting in publications and recognition in international medical circles. His co-authored book, What I Wish I Knew Before Medical School, reflects his dedication to mentoring and educating the next generation of healthcare professionals, further enhancing his academic reputation. His chapter contributions to the International Encyclopedia of Public Health positioned him among notable voices in global health. Over his career, he has been acknowledged for his role in advancing therapeutic development, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic through multiple high-impact trials. These honors reflect not only his scholarly achievements but also his contributions to improving medical care through innovative and ethical clinical research practices

Research Focus

Dr. Muhammad Saeed’s research focus lies at the intersection of clinical innovation and public health. His academic research has addressed infectious diseases, including typhoid detection in children and diabetes risk factors in underserved communities. In industry, he has spearheaded large-scale multicenter clinical trials across diverse therapeutic areas, including cardiology, oncology, neurology, respiratory diseases, and COVID-19. His work emphasizes patient safety, treatment efficacy, and advancing therapeutic options for conditions with high unmet medical needs. He has been deeply involved in clinical trial design, implementation, and analysis, ensuring robust outcomes that translate into better clinical practices. Beyond therapeutic innovation, Dr. Saeed’s work reflects a commitment to advancing methodologies for early disease detection, novel biomarkers, stem-cell based therapies, and cutting-edge treatments for neurodegenerative and chronic illnesses. His research philosophy integrates medical rigor, ethical practice, and translational application, aiming to bring scientific discovery from the research bench directly to patient care with lasting global impact.

 

Publications

Title: Impacts of Ambient Temperatures on Pediatric Anemia in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Regional Ecological Study
Year: 2025

Title: Evaluation of the Potential Of Rejuveinix Plus Dexamethasone Against Sepsis
Year: 2022

Title: Clinical and Non-clinical Proof of Concept Supporting the Development of RJX As an Adjunct to Standard of Care Against Severe COVID-19
Year: 2022

Title: Factors associated with disease severity and mortality among patients with COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Year: 2020

Title: Clinical characteristics, management and outcome of major pulmonary embolism: an experience from a tertiary care center in Pakistan
Year: 2009

Conclusion

Dr. Muhammad  Saeed is a distinguished physician-scientist whose career blends clinical expertise, research leadership, and academic scholarship, with a strong focus on advancing therapeutic innovation, improving patient care, and mentoring future medical professionals through global collaborations and ethical research excellence.

Caroline Cecil Kaufman | Clinical Psychology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Caroline Cecil Kaufman | Clinical Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Caroline C. Kaufman is an Assistant Psychologist at McLean Hospital and Instructor in Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. She earned her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Memphis, with a specialization in the psychology of religion and spirituality. Her work lies at the intersection of spirituality, trauma, and mental health, particularly among underserved and marginalized populations. Dr. Kaufman has developed spiritually integrated psychotherapeutic interventions and conducted groundbreaking research on antisemitism, PTSD, and alcohol misuse. She has trained at leading institutions, including Yale School of Medicine, and currently leads multiple funded projects aimed at adapting clinical care to spiritual and religious diversity. Dr. Kaufman is widely recognized for her academic contributions and advocacy for inclusive behavioral health. Her professional mission centers on empowering vulnerable communities through evidence-based, spiritually inclusive mental health research and care. She is also a frequent speaker and active contributor to national and international psychology organizations.

Profile

🎓 Education

Dr. Kaufman’s clinical and academic experience spans leading institutions in psychology and psychiatry. She currently serves as Assistant Psychologist at McLean Hospital and Instructor at Harvard Medical School. From 2021 to 2023, she was a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Spirituality and Mental Health Program at McLean. Her internship was at Yale-New Haven Hospital, where she worked in child and adolescent intensive outpatient care and the Yale Gender Program. She has held clinical roles across diverse settings, including Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, Daybreak Treatment Center, and Head Start programs. She also held supervisory roles, including at Yale and the University of Memphis. Dr. Kaufman has been actively engaged in research, professional service, and teaching throughout her career. Her expertise lies in integrating spirituality and trauma-focused therapies, and she serves as Principal Investigator on several funded research projects. She also advises diversity and inclusion initiatives across clinical psychology organizations.

🧪 Experience

Dr. Kaufman has received numerous accolades for her academic and clinical contributions. In 2024, she was awarded the Eleanor and Miles Shore Fellowship by McLean Hospital and Harvard Medical School. She is a 2022 Livingston Fellow at Harvard Medical School and was selected for the prestigious Yale Program for Medicine, Spirituality, & Religion Fellowship in 2020. That same year, she received the Jewish Community Hero Award. Other honors include the International Research Network’s Early Career Researcher Award (2022), the Graduate Student Talk Award from the Tennessee Psychological Association (2018), and the Sigma Xi Undergraduate Research Award from Williams College (2015). Dr. Kaufman has been consistently recognized for her innovative research in spirituality and mental health, her leadership in DEI initiatives, and her commitment to advancing culturally sensitive clinical care. She also received multiple travel and presentation awards from the APA and other scholarly organizations throughout her academic training.

🏅 Awards and Honors

Dr. Kaufman has received numerous accolades for her academic and clinical contributions. In 2024, she was awarded the Eleanor and Miles Shore Fellowship by McLean Hospital and Harvard Medical School. She is a 2022 Livingston Fellow at Harvard Medical School and was selected for the prestigious Yale Program for Medicine, Spirituality, & Religion Fellowship in 2020. That same year, she received the Jewish Community Hero Award. Other honors include the International Research Network’s Early Career Researcher Award (2022), the Graduate Student Talk Award from the Tennessee Psychological Association (2018), and the Sigma Xi Undergraduate Research Award from Williams College (2015). Dr. Kaufman has been consistently recognized for her innovative research in spirituality and mental health, her leadership in DEI initiatives, and her commitment to advancing culturally sensitive clinical care. She also received multiple travel and presentation awards from the APA and other scholarly organizations throughout her academic training.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Kaufman’s research focuses on the integration of spirituality, religiosity, and psychological science, particularly in the treatment of trauma, PTSD, and alcohol misuse. Her scholarship explores how spiritual identity and belief systems influence mental health outcomes, with a strong emphasis on marginalized and high-risk populations such as first responders and Jewish communities facing antisemitism. She leads several research projects, funded by organizations such as the John Templeton Foundation and Harvard Medical School, examining spiritually integrated psychotherapy, resilience among trauma survivors, and inclusion of religious diversity in behavioral health. She also investigates antisemitic prejudice and its psychological effects. Through both qualitative and quantitative methodologies, her work advances clinical science by developing culturally and spiritually sensitive interventions. Dr. Kaufman’s interdisciplinary research informs clinical practices and policy frameworks to promote inclusive, evidence-based care. She also collaborates across academic and community settings to ensure her research has practical, population-level impact.

✅ Conclusion

Publications

  • Mental Health Clinical Pastoral Education—A Specialized CPE Program

    Religions
    2025-07 | Journal article | Author
    DOI: 10.3390/rel16070886
    CONTRIBUTORS: Angelika A. Zollfrank; Caroline Cecil Kaufman; David H. Rosmarin

  • The scale matters: assessing body size with figure rating scales in a diverse sample of young adults

    Eating and Weight Disorders
    2022 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.1007/s40519-021-01166-9

  • Integrating Spirituality in Group Psychotherapy with First Responders: Addressing Trauma and Substance Misuse

    Religions
    2022-11 | Journal article | Author
    DOI: 10.3390/rel13121132
    CONTRIBUTORS: Caroline Cecil Kaufman; David Hillel Rosmarin; Hilary Connery

  • Parenting in matched pairs of women of color experiencing intimate partner violence and living with and without HIV

    Journal of Traumatic Stress
    2021 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.1002/jts.22737
    EID: 2-s2.0-85116930252
    Part of ISSN: 15736598 08949867
    CONTRIBUTORS: Thurston, I.B.; Howell, K.H.; Kaufman, C.C.; Mandell, J.E.; Decker, K.M.