cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mi-2 Autoantibodies

Publisher Summary This chapter provides an overview of the pathogenetic role and methods of detection of anti-Mi antibodies, which are the first autoantibodies primarily associated with myositis. Indirect immunofluorescence and immunodiffusion studies demonstrate the Mi-2 antigen in all cell lines and tissues tested from all mammalian species examined. Anti-Mi-2 antibodies are unique in their primary association with dermatomyositis, in being the only defined myositis-specific autoantibody (MSA) directed at a nuclear antigen, and in being the only MSA with a frequency in children comparable to that in adults. The availability of recombinant antigen facilitates testing for the antibody. The antibody is of significant clinical value because of its high disease specificity.
4. “I Besieged That Man”: Democracy’s Revolutionary Start

The origins of democracy at Athens should be sought in a revolutionary moment in 508/7 B.C. and the subsequent institutional reforms associated with Cleistehenes. An revised version of the argument first offered by the author in "The Athenian Revolution of 508/7 B.C.E: Violence, Authority, and the Origins of Democracy," in C. Dougherty and L. Kurke (ed.), Cultural Poetics in Archaic Greece: Cult, Performance, Politics (Cambridge: Cambridge Univ. Press 1993), 215-232.
Predicting Trophic Interactions and Habitat Utilization in the California Current Ecosystem

Abstract : While specifically focusing on trophic interactions affecting habitat utilization and foraging pattern of California sea lions (CSL) in the California Current Large Marine Ecosystem (CCLME), the long-term goal of our modeling approach is to better understand and characterize biological hotspots (i.e., the aggregation of multiple marine organisms over multiple trophic levels) off the U.S. west coast and in other regions where similar fully-coupled ecosystem models may be implemented. As such, our research represents a major step towards a predictive model that can provide fundamental knowledge about: (1) the spatial and temporal distribution of key marine organisms over multiple trophic levels, and (2) natural and anthropogenic variability in ecosystem structure and trophic interactions. The main research objective is to quantify habitat utilization and trophic interactions in the CCLME by considering patterns of covariability between environmental variables (e.g., temperature, primary production) and foraging patterns and success of middle (forage fish) and higher (sea lions) trophic level organisms. Since our numerical experiments are designed to isolate patterns of variability on seasonal to interannual timescales during normal and extreme years, we focus our analysis on identifying shifts in habitat utilization (e.g., shelf vs. offshore foraging) in the CCLME. We will also explore which features and environmental properties control foraging success in different sub-regions of the CCLME (e.g., onset and duration of upwelling season on the shelf, eddy variability).
How multidrug resistance in typhoid fever affects treatment options

Salmonella enterica serotype Typhi (S. Typhi) is an enteric pathogen that causes typhoid fever. The infection can be severe, with significant morbidity and mortality, requiring antimicrobial therapy. Cases of S. Typhi infection in the United States and other developed countries are often associated with travel to endemic regions. The empirical use of first-line drugs for therapy, including ampicillin, chloramphenicol, and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, has resulted in transmissible multidrug resistance. With the global increase in multidrug-resistant S. Typhi, use of ciprofloxacin, with excellent oral absorption, few side effects, and cost-effectiveness, has become popular for treatment. However, decreased ciprofloxacin susceptibility due to point mutations in the S. Typhi genes gyrA and/or parC has caused treatment failures, necessitating alternative therapeutic options. S. Typhi is typically genetically homogenous, with phylogenetic and epidemiological studies showing that identical clones and diverse S. Typhi types often coexist in the same geographic region. Studies investigating point mutations have demonstrated that selective pressure from empirical use of first-line drugs and fluoroquinolones has led to the global emergence of haplotype H-58. Antibiotic resistance is subject to high selective pressure in S. Typhi and thus demands careful use of antimicrobials.
Assessment of drug transporter function using fluorescent cell imaging

ATP-binding cassette (ABC) proteins, including the breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP) and multidrug resistance proteins (MDRs), actively transport structurally diverse chemicals from a number of tissues and are being increasingly cited as mediators of clinically relevant drug-drug interactions. The potential outcomes of concomitantly administering two drugs that interact at the same transporter include altered disposition and toxicity and/or efficacy of one or both of the drugs. Research demonstrating the role of transporters in clinical pharmacokinetics has shed light on the need for in vitro screening methods that detect drug-transporter interactions during preclinical development. This unit describes cell-based procedures for detecting functional inhibitors of BCRP and MDR1 by measuring fluorescent substrate accumulation in suspended cells using an automated cell counter, which offers convenience, sensitivity, and speed in measuring intracellular fluorescence and identifying new inhibitors. An alternative method is provided for making similar measurements using a spectrophotometer with fluorescence detection capabilities. Curr. Protoc. Toxicol. 57:23.6.1-23.6.15. C � 2013 by John Wiley
In God's Shadow: Unveiling the Hidden World of Victims of Domestic Violence in Observant Religious Communities

In recent years, the phenomenon of domestic violence was elevated to the infamous status of a "global epidemic" infesting our society. Despite continuous efforts by law and policy makers to combat this adverse phenomenon affecting 1 in every 3 women around the globe, the problem persists to thrive among us. Despite this widespread distribution of the phenomenon across society, not all victims are confronted with the same set of challenges in their way to freedom from the chains of violence and abuse. Domestic violence victims of closely knit and observant religious communities is a particular group that faces a distinct set of barriers, which affect their ability and willingness to report, escape the abuse, and cooperate with law enforcement and prosecution agents. This article aims to provide a unique and fascinating window into the hidden world of domestic violence victims in communities of faith, and to untangle some of the complexities associated with this sensitive issue. This additional layer of knowledge is a vital element in enhancing our ability to implement and promote programs and policies to combat the adverse phenomenon of domestic violence.
Tooth Discoloration in Cystic Fibrosis

In recent years, attention has been focused on grossly observable, often severe discoloration of teeth of a gray-black or brown character in patients with cystic fibrosis of the pancreas. Quite often, this discoloration appears to be localized, but not definitively, to the middle and cervical thirds of the clinical crowns of teeth. In order to document and analyze data concerning this peculiar tooth discoloration. a study of a group of patients with cystic fibrosis was undertaken.
Activity-dependent retinotopic refinement in a low-density retinotectal projection in the goldfish: evidence favoring synaptic cooperation over competition

During optic nerve regeneration in goldfish, the label from a small retinal spot injection of WGA-HRP has been previously reported to be initially widely dispersed in the tectum and subsequently to condense into a small patch in the retinotopically appropriate location of tectum. This refinement involves two separate processes: one is activity independent and generates gross retinotopy; the other is activity dependent and mediates the formation of fine retinotopy. Since the number of synapses remains constant during this refinement, one or both of these processes may involve some form of competition for a limited number of synaptic sites. To clarify the role of synaptic competition, we created a low-density retinotectal projection in goldfish by deflecting about 20% of the optic fibers from one tectum into the opposite tectum, which was denervated of all other optic fibers. Under this condition, it was previously shown that less than half the normal density of synapses is formed. If competition for synaptic sites is a requirement of refinement, refinement should be prevented or significantly hindered. To monitor refinement during regeneration, 2 nl spot injections of WGA-HRP were made into the retina at various times after deflection. To distinguish between activity- dependent and activity-independent refinement, retinal impulse activity was blocked in some fish with repeated injections of TTX into the eye for the duration of the experiment. It was found that considerable activity-independent refinement occurred under continuous TTX blockade although the fibers remained more dispersed than in previous TTX studies when normal numbers of fibers were present. Surprisingly, in fish with normal impulse activity, the degree of activity-dependent refinement was almost normal. Labeled fibers condensed into a small area roughly comparable in size to that observed when the full complement of fibers was regenerating into tectum. These results suggest that competition for limited synaptic sites is not essential for activity-dependent refinement, which may, instead, be mediated by a cooperative process that actively promotes convergence. The findings further suggest that if synaptic competition plays a role in this system, it is in regulating activity-independent mechanisms that determine the large-scale distribution of fibers within tectum.
The Role of Biologic Therapies in Dermatology

Biologic therapy has dramatically changed the way medicine, and specifically dermatology, is practiced today. The use of biologic agents in dermatology is evolving, with psoriasis being the most common indication for which biologics are used currently. However, several other dermatologic diseases seem to be responsive to biologic therapy, and continuing research and development efforts are elucidating the benefit-risk profiles of various biologic medications in these dermatologic conditions. Although biologic agents have revolutionized the management of dermatologic conditions, cost must also be considered when evaluating management options, especially compared with traditional agents. For example, the cost of 1 year of induction and maintenance treatment of psoriasis in 2014 was estimated to be $53,909 for ustekinumab, $46,395 for etanercept, and $39,041 for adalimumab. Nonetheless, because of their efficacy, the cost of a biologic may be offset by significant reductions in the number of hospital stays, reduction in use of other systemic therapies, and increased satisfaction by patients.32 Thus, understanding their mechanisms of action, labeled and off-label uses in dermatology, and common adverse effects helps to inform clinical decision making and improve patient outcomes.
Reconstitution of alkaline-denatured catalase.

Abstract Bovine liver catalase at pH 12 dissociates into four physically indistinguishable sub-units and loses its enzymatic activity. The dissociation is accompanied by (1) changes in the hydrodynamic properties (its intrinsic viscosity increases from 0.039 to 0.23 dl/g and sedimentation coefficient decreases from 11.4 to 2.85 S), (2) the disappearance of the Soret band at 405 mμ characteristic of heme proteins and the appearance of a small broad peak at 420 mμ, (3) the disappearance of the Cotton effects in the Soret band, and (4) the reduction of the 233-mμ trough of the Cotton effects in the ultraviolet region to about one half in magnitude, suggesting the reduction of helical content. However, the reconstituted catalase molecule has the same physical and chemical properties as the native protein. The subunits can be reconstituted by rapidly diluting the alkaline solution with a pH 7 phosphate buffer. The percentage of enzymatic activity recovered depends on the time required for denaturation and renaturation, concentration of the protein, dilution volume, and temperature of the solution.
Numerical Simulation of Two-Dimensional Acoustic Liners with High-Speed Grazing Flow

Resonant acoustic liners are used to dissipate acoustic energy in engine ducts in the presence of grazing flow. Future applications have been proposed that will expose liners to much higher grazing flow velocities than are typically encountered. To study their characteristics at these conditions, a fully predictive liner eduction technique is developed by solving the compressible Navier-Stokes equations with accurate boundary conditions. Validation of the numerical approach is demonstrated by comparing the predicted absorption characteristics of a 3 kHz resonant liner geometry without any background flow against existing computational and experimental data. Using the validated approach, simulations at more realistic liner operating conditions are performed. Incident grazing acoustic waves of different intensity and frequency are performed at grazing flow Mach numbers up to 0.85. The liner impedance is evaluated and compared with existing semiempirical models; reasonable agreement is found in most cases. The simulation databases are then used to examine candidate quantities for recently suggested time-domain liner models. It is found that, at high grazing Mach numbers, the vortex shedding characteristics continue to be a strong function of frequency, with incident waves of lower frequency leading to stronger vortex shedding. It is also found that the aperture wall shear stress and displacement thickness are strongly coupled to the in-aperture flow details, while the mass flux through the aperture is more closely linked to the incident sound frequency.
On handling time-varying data in the relational data model

Abstract The article addresses the key issues in modeling and querying temporal data within the relational framework. These issues include representation of temporal data, temporal grouping (object) identifiers and primary keys of temporal relations, temporal integrity constraints, and fundamental operations of a temporal query language. The paper develops taxonomy for temporal relational databases and establishes criteria to evaluate various proposed extensions to the relational data model. We expect that it will benefit the researchers and guide the practitioners in choosing the right approach for managing temporal data in their applications.
Running out of time: Limited unemployment benefits and reservation wages☆

Abstract We study unemployment insurance (UI) in an equilibrium environment in which unemployed workers only receive benefits for a finite length of time. Although all workers have identical productivity and leisure value, the random arrival of job offers creates ex-post differences with respect to their time remaining until benefit expiration. Firms, which are also homogeneous, can exploit these differences, leading to an endogenous wage distribution. This allows us to examine the equilibrium effect of policy changes in both the size and length of UI benefits. Surprisingly, an increase in benefits can actually cause wages to fall, which is contrary to the predictions of on-the-job-search models. Moreover, we explain well-documented patterns of how the hazard rate of exiting unemployment responds to these policy changes. Our theory also explains why this hazard rate jumps at the time of benefit exhaustion.
Feasibility of an online fluorescence-based optical sensor for oxygen monitoring in cell-culture media

Low molecular weight molecules are typically very difficult to detect directly in solution using commercially available SPR (surface plasmon resonance) instruments. This is because the mass change on binding is not sufficient to cause a detectable change in refractive index on binding to surface- bound receptors (e.g., antibodies). Some receptors, however, undergo extensive changes in tertiary structure upon binding ligands. Here we present data suggesting conformational changes in surface-bound receptors such as periplasmic binding proteins and calcium-binding proteins can be detected by SPR. This SPR response can be used to monitor specific binding of carbohydrates and calcium even though the molecular weight of these analytes would be difficult to detect using traditional SPR methods. Therefore this approach has potential applications for developing optical biosensors for such small molecules.
Analysis of mode-locked and intracavity frequency-doubled Nd:YAG laser

We present analytical and computer studies of the CW mode-locked and intracavity frequency-doubled Nd:YAG laser which provide new insight into the operation, including the detuning behavior, of this type of laser. Computer solutions show that the steady-state pulse shape for this laser is much closer to a truncated cosine than to a Gaussian; there is little spectral broadening for on-resonance operation; and the chirp is negligible. This leads to a simplified analytical model carried out entirely in the time domain, with atomic linewidth effects ignored. Simple analytical results for on-resonance pulse shape, pulse width, signal intensity, and harmonic conversion efficiency in terms of basic laser parameters are derived from this model. A simplified physical description of the detuning behavior is also developed. Agreement is found with experimental studies showing that the pulsewidth decreases as the modulation frequency is detuned off resonance; the harmonic power output initially increases and then decreases; and the pulse shape develops a sharp-edged asymmetry of opposite sense for opposite signs of detuning.
The Image of the Slav in U.S. History and in Immigration Policy

BY A SERIES OF discriminatory immigration laws, culminating in the Quota Act of 1924, the Slav was assigned to the category of "inferior" nations and "races." How did this attitude come about? It was the result of a rather strange combination of forces produced by labor, industrialists, farmers, exuberant nationalists, racists, and intellectuals (like historians and sociologists). These influences converged to produce both the ideology out of which the legislation was fabricated and the pressure that brought about its enactment.' That immigrants from Southern and Eastern Europe, particularly from the Balkans, were inherently inferior was one racist assumption. That they could not be assimilated was another. The goal of those who held these ideas was, of course, to effect a decrease in the total number of immigrants entering the United States. But it was not only that. They sought also to set up a formula which would favor the entry of immigrants from Northern and Western Europe while keeping the number of the unfavored groups to a minimum. Both racial assumptions and the ideology of Anglo-Saxon conformity have been built-in features of this policy, even though Americans claimed generally to be opposed to racism abroad (Hitlerism especially) or at home-racial segregation in the schools and economic and social discrimination against the Negro and other minority groups notwithstanding.
Convergence of High-Order Deterministic Particle Methods for the Convection-Diffusion Equation

A proof of high-order convergence of three deterministic particle methods for the convectiondiffusion equation in two dimensions is presented. The methods are based on discretizations of an integro-differential equation in which an integral operator approximates the diffusion operator. The methods differ in the discretization of this operator. The conditions for convergence imposed on the kernel that defines the integral operator include moment conditions and a condition on the kernel’s Fourier transform. Explicit formulae for kernels that satisfy these conditions to arbitrary order are presented. c 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
On the planarity of regular incidence sequences

Abstract A graph is said to realize a sequence of positive integers if the set of vertex incidence numbers of the graph equals the given sequence. The class of regular sequences which have a planar realization is completely determined.
Regulation of Acetyl Coenzyme-A Carboxylase Gene in a Transgenic Animal Model

The gene for acetyl-CoA carboxylase, the rate-limiting enzyme in the biosynthesis of long-chain fatty acids, contains two promoters; promoter I (PI) and promoter II (PII) which are responsible for generation of class I and class II ACC mRNAs, respectively. Class I ACC mRNAs are present in adipose tissue, but only a trace was found in the liver under normal physiological conditions. However, class I mRNAs were induced under stimulated lipogenic conditions. To investigate how PI is regulated in vivo, we generated transgenic mice containing a reporter gene under the control of PI. In transgenic mice, PI is generally inactive and a small amount of PI activity was found only in the adipose tissues of female animals. Stimulated lipogenic conditions activated PI about 17-fold over normal conditions and again only in white adipose tissues of female animals.
LARGE-SCALE, COMPLEX-SHAPED COASTLINE RESPONSES TO DIFFERENT FORMS OF LOCAL SHORELINE STABILIZATION AND CLIMATE CHANGE

This exploratory work suggests that even isolated, localized human manipulations of the coastline system, when maintained over decadal or longer timescales, can significantly affect the large-scale evolution of a complex-shaped coastline, especially in the context changing storm climates. Here, we build on an earlier study that examined the large-scale effects of localized beach nourishment, finding that localized stabilization through seawalls can increase shoreline change rates by up to meters per year within tens of kilometers of the site of the stabilization.
Treatment effects with an adolescent abuse survivor's group

Abstract Objective: The goal of the study was to demonstrate the efficacy of a structured group therapy intervention in reducing the negative emotional and behavioral sequelae of adolescent girls’ who are survivors of sexual abuse. It was hypothesized teens would show an increase in adaptive behaviors and knowledge of positive coping strategies. Method: A 7-session structured group treatment protocol based on Solution Focused and Ericksonian interventions was used. Forty-one teens between the ages of 13 and 18 years old participated in the groups. Each group session included a didactic presentation, an art activity and development of a positive associational cue. Pre- and post-test assessment was done using the Solution Focused Recovery Scale, a measure of adaptive functioning; and the Skill Mastery Test, designed to evaluate teens knowledge of the concepts and strategies taught throughout the group. Results: Overall, there was a significant change in pre- to post- measurements of adaptive functioning as assessed by the Recovery Scale. At this time, no statistically significant pre- to post- changes were evident for scores on the Skill Mastery Test. However, there was a trend toward improvement on visual inspection of the Skill Mastery scores. Conclusions: This study demonstrates emphasizing competence and skill development in the treatment of adolescent abuse survivors can aid teens in improving their daily functioning and positive recovery behaviors. In addition, early findings regarding the efficacy of this intervention suggest theory driven research methodology can be applied in a clinical setting with standardized treatment protocols. French abstract not available at time of publication.
In vitro enhancement of cell clumping by surface region fractions.

Abstract Surface region fractions isolated from embryonic cells enhance the aggregation or clumping of cells cultured in vitro. The enhancement appears to be neither tissue nor species-specific. Fractions heat-treated at 100 °C, do not enhance clumping.
A Single Amino Acid Substitution in the Renal Betaine/GABA Transporter Prevents Trafficking to the Plasma Membrane

One response to hypertonic stress in the renal medulla and MDCK cells is the upregulation of betaine transporter (BGT1) synthesis, followed by trafficking to the plasma membrane (PM) and an increase in betaine transport. Upregulation of BGT1 was enhanced by inhibitors of phosphatases PP1 and PP2A and was attenuated by inhibitors of protein kinase C, suggesting an important role for phosphorylation reactions. This was tested using mutants of BGT1 tagged with EGFP. The PM trafficking motifs of BGT1 reside near the C terminus, and truncation at lysine 560 resulted in a protein that remained intracellular during hypertonic stress. This K560 mutant colocalized with endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Substitution of alanine at Thr 40, a putative phosphorylation site, also prevented trafficking to the PM during hypertonic stress. Live-cell imaging showed that T40A was not retained in the ER and colocalized with markers for Golgi and endosomes. In contrast, substitution of aspartate or glutamate at Thr 40, to mimic phosphorylation, restored normal trafficking to the PM. HEK293 cells transfected with K560 or T40A mutants had 10% of the GABA transport activity of native BGT1, but normal transport activity was restored in cells expressing T40E. Normal BGT1 trafficking likely requires phosphorylation at Thr 40 in addition to C-terminal motifs.
Modeling and simulation-based solutions for complex resource allocation problems

Resource allocation problems arise in application domains such as logistics, networking, manufacturing, and C4I systems. The discrete nature of resources to be allocated makes such problems combinatorially complex. In addition, uncertainties in the times when resources are requested and relinquished introduce additional complexities often necessitating the use of simulation for modeling and analysis purposes. In this paper, we present two approaches for solving such problems, the first based on ordinal optimization and the second on the idea of replacing the original discrete allocation problem by a `surrogate model' involving a continuous allocation problem. The latter is simpler to solve through gradient-based techniques and can be shown to recover the solutions of the original problem. Concurrent simulation is used to estimate the gradients required in this approach, leading to extremely fast solutions for many problems in practice.© (1999) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Positive dependency and virtuous cycles: From resource dependence to resilience in urban social-ecological systems

Abstract We argue that purely deficit-based perspectives regarding urban social-ecological systems (SES) and the human populations within them represent barriers to these systems' ability to move from undesirable system states into more desirable, sustainable ones. We characterize issues such as individual ecological identity, human exemptionalism, anthropocentrism, and resource dependence. We examine notions found in the resource dependency literature, where we trace the roots of ideas about dependency. We use this literature as a spring board into the possibilities of an antipodal notion of resource dependency potentially applicable in urban contexts, what we call positive dependency. Next we describe two possible sources of positive dependency in urban SES, urgent biophilia and restorative topophilia, followed by a brief discussion applying positive dependence to urban systems challenges and management. We conclude with the importance of recognition of positive dependency as a precursor to the development of a heightened sense of ecological self and sense of ecological place in urban SES, and provide insights and suggestions for further research into civic ecology practices that may enhance positive dependency on and investment in ecological assets that contribute to positive ecological senses of self and place, and the importance of these to achieving sustainable, resilient urban futures.
Probe dependence of spatially heterogeneous dynamics in supercooled glycerol as revealed by single molecule microscopy

Spatially heterogeneous dynamics in supercooled glycerol over the temperature range 198 K (1.04Tg) − 212 K (1.12Tg) is investigated using widefield single molecule (SM) fluorescence microscopy. Measurements are performed using three different perylenedicarboximide probes to investigate whether probe size and probe–host interactions affect breadth of heterogeneity reported in the glassy host by such SM experiments. Rotational relaxation times of single probe molecules are measured, and for all probes, log-normal distributions of relaxation times are found. No significant change in relaxation time distribution as a function of temperature is evident for a given probe. However, across probes, probe rotational relaxation time is correlated with breadth of heterogeneous dynamics reported. Molecules that undergo changes in dynamics are identified using two complementary approaches that interrogate time scales between 103 and 106τα,with τα the structural relaxation time of glycerol. Exchange is found on the shortest time scales probed (∼30 τc, with τc the rotational correlation time of the probe) and is relatively temperature and probe independent. No evidence is found for additional exchange occurring on the longest time scales interrogated. Taken together with the fact that probes that rotate the fastest report the greatest breadth of spatially heterogeneous dynamics in the system, this indicates that exchange times reported from analysis of SM linear dichroism trajectories as described here are upper bounds on the average exchange time in the system.
Management of mitral regurgitation in Marfan syndrome: Outcomes of valve repair versus replacement and comparison with myxomatous mitral valve disease

Objectives The study objective was to evaluate patients with Marfan syndrome and mitral valve regurgitation undergoing valve repair or replacement and to compare them with patients undergoing repair for myxomatous mitral valve disease. Methods We reviewed the medical records of consecutive patients with Marfan syndrome treated surgically between March 17, 1960, and September 12, 2011, for mitral regurgitation and performed a subanalysis of those with repairs compared with case-matched patients with myxomatous mitral valve disease who had repairs (March 14, 1995, to July 5, 2013). Results Of 61 consecutive patients, 40 underwent mitral repair and 21 underwent mitral replacement (mean [standard deviation] age, 40 [18] vs 31 [19] years; P = .09). Concomitant aortic surgery was performed to a similar extent (repair, 45% [18/40] vs replacement, 43% [9/21]; P = .87). Ten-year survival was significantly better in patients with Marfan syndrome with mitral repair than in those with replacement (80% vs 41%; P = .01). Mitral reintervention did not differ between mitral repair and replacement (cumulative risk of reoperation, 27% vs 15%; P = .64). In the matched cohort, 10-year survival after repair was similar for patients with Marfan syndrome and myxomatous mitral disease (84% vs 78%; P = .63), as was cumulative risk of reoperation (17% vs 12%; P = .61). Conclusions Patients with Marfan syndrome and mitral regurgitation have better survival with repair than with replacement. Survival and risk of reoperation for patients with Marfan syndrome were similar to those for patients with myxomatous mitral disease. These results support the use of mitral valve repair in patients with Marfan syndrome and moderate or more mitral regurgitation, including those having composite replacement of the aortic root.
P05.42. Student ranking of “evidence-informed practice guidelines” from NARCCIM workshop: “what are research literacy competencies for the CAM practitioner?”

Results Of the 10 evidence-informed guidelines list below, “Maintain ethical standards of practice” was rated the highest, with “Access relevant information to find evidence-informed answers to questions that arise in clinical practice” coming in second and “Integrate multiple forms of evidence into clinical practice” ranked third most significant. 1. Define EIP and describe its role 2. Describe fundamental principles of research 3. Generate searchable questions 4. Access relevant information to find evidenceinformed answers to questions that arise in clinical practice. 5. Critically appraise different forms of evidence 6. Integrate multiple forms of evidence into clinical practice 7. Effectively integrates evidence into professional communications 8. Maintain ethical standards of practice 9. Engage in reflective practice 10. Participate in the culture of research
Asset Specificity and Corporate Governance: An Empirical Test

This study develops a model for estimating an index measure of asset specificity based on the liquidation value of corporate firms and the proportional distribution of their pre‐liquidation assets. A statistically significant positive relationship was found to exist between the estimated specificity index and financial leverage supporting the theoretical prediction. Additional evidence was found that firms with higher variability in sales, lower probabilities of failure, higher valued non‐debt tax shields and higher levels of financial slack use less financial leverage.
The effects of a 3-week use of lumbosacral orthoses on proprioception in the lumbar spine.

Study Design Longitudinal, repeated-measures, factorial design. The trunk axial rotation repositioning error was the dependent variable, while the orthoses, test mode (passive versus active), and the testing session were the independent variables. Objectives To verify whether lumbosacral orthoses (LSOs) affect proprioception in the lumbar spine and whether these effects change over a 3-week period during which the LSO is consistently worn. Background To date, there is no compelling evidence that lumbar orthoses support the spine. One hypothesis advanced by several authors is that they may enhance position sense (proprioception) in the lumbar spine. Methods and Measures Fourteen subjects without low back pain wore lumbosacral orthoses 3 hours a day for 3 weeks. Spine proprioception was tested in a seated posture in 3 sessions (days 0, 7, and 21). Results A significant 3-way interaction was found between the effects of the orthoses, session, and test mode (P= .03). The ratio of passive to active average err...
Immune effector cell (IEC)-mediated protection from HSV-1 retinitis occurs in the brain.

Abstract Following uniocular anterior chamber inoculation of the KOS strain of HSV-1 into euthymic BALB/c mice, virus spreads from the injected eye to the brain and from the brain to the optic nerve and retina of the uninjected eye resulting in retinitis. Adoptive transfer of HSV-1-specific immune effector cells (IEC) within 24 h of anterior chamber inoculation of virus prevents retinitis. To determine where protection occurs, mice were injected with HSV-1 via the anterior chamber route, and fluorescently-labeled HSV-1-specific-IEC or ovalbumin-specific lymph node cells were adoptively transferred intravenously. The eyes and brains of these mice were sectioned and examined for virus-infected cells and for fluorescently-labeled adoptively transferred cells. None of the mice in the group receiving an adoptive transfer of virus-specific IEC had evidence of virus infection of the ipsilateral suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), whereas the ipsilateral SCN of all of the mice in the control groups were virus-positive by day 5 P.I. Since virus spreads from the ipsilateral SCN to the contralateral optic nerve and retina to cause retinitis in the uninoculated eye, the results of these studies suggest IEC-mediated protection from HSV-1 retinitis occurs proximal to the ipsilateral SCN. Furthermore, since only HSV-1-specific IEC conferred protection and only these cells were observed in the brain, protection and trafficking of cells after adoptive transfer was virus-specific.
Assembly of micro-optical devices using magnetic actuation

Abstract We report a high-yield and high-efficiency assembly technique for three-dimensional micro-optical components, including Fresnel lenses, optical gratings, and corner cube reflectors. The three-dimensional assembly process and the optical performance of the assembled components is presented. The angular displacement of individual microstructures is controlled by varying the volume of the magnetic material and through the addition of a flexural-beam loading mechanism to the hinged microstructure. The normal force caused by the deflection of the beam enhances the stability of these devices after they are assembled. The stability of the corner cube reflector is further enhanced by a hooking mechanism in the microstructure. Tests conducted with a He–Ne laser confirm that the measured performance of the Fresnel lens and optical grating correlate well to the expected theoretical values. We also demonstrate the capability for parallel actuation of large arrays of optical components under a global (wafer scale) external magnetic field.
Towards a physical understanding of physiological excitation as a cooperative specific adsorption phenomenon.

In this work an attempt is made to develop a new physical theory for physiological excitation. The theory is based on the concept of cooperative specific adsorption, an offshoot of the association-induction hypothesis originated by G. N. Ling (1962).
FT-IRRAS spectroscopic studies of the interaction of avidin with biotinylated dendrimer surfaces.

Abstract The interaction of avidin with biotin on a functional Au surface containing fourth generation amine-terminated polyamidoamine (G4-NH 2 PAMAM) dendrimers was investigated through the use of Fourier transform infrared reflection–adsorption spectroscopy (FT-IRRAS). The first step in the fabrication of the functional surfaces used was the construction of an aldehyde-terminated self-assembled monolayer (SAM) through the treatment of Au-coated glass slides with ethanol solutions of self-synthesized 2-hydroxypentamethylene sulfide (HPMS). The as-formed aldehyde-terminated monolayer was subsequently immersed in methanol solutions of G4-NH 2 PAMAM dendrimer to obtain well-organized primary amine-terminated surfaces. Biotinylation of the amine-terminated layers thus obtained was accomplished by use of the N -succinimidyl ester of biotin. Each step of the synthetic process, as well as the performance of final surface for protein recognition was monitored by FT-IRRAS. In particular, the molecular recognition ability was examined and quantified by use of an alkyne dicobalt hexacarbonyl probe coupled with avidin. Non-specific adsorption of avidin was determined by exposure of the amine-terminated and/or biotinylated surfaces to solutions of biotin-saturated avidin. The results indicate that the biotinylated G4-NH 2 PAMAM dendrimer layers formed according to this procedure have a high capacity for binding avidin with relatively high specificity. The performance of these layers (i.e. both binding capacity and specificity) improve substantially when 6-mercapto-1-hexanol (MH) is present as a co-adsorbent during the formation of the initial aldehyde-terminated layers. This effect can be attributed to the dilution of the initial aldehyde-terminated SAM, leading to a more favorable spatial arrangement of the subsequent biotinylated surfaces.
Worst-case comparison of valid inequalities for the TSP

We consider most of the known classes of valid inequalities for the graphical travelling salesman polyhedron and compute the worst-case improvement resulting from their addition to the subtour polyhedron. For example, we show that the comb inequalities cannot improve the subtour bound by a factor greater than 10/9. The corresponding factor for the class of clique tree inequalities is 8/7, while it is 4/3 for the path configuration inequalities.
An in-vivo method for testing drugs that influence striatal dopaminergic functions

Abstract A procedure is described for evaluating the effects of drugs on dopaminergic function in the striatum of mice. Mice, anesthetized with chloral hydrate are injected with 6-hydroxydopamine into one striatum to destroy dopamine nerve terminals at this site. Several days later, the mice are anesthetized with halothane, and test drugs or saline are injected into the intact striatum either before or after the systemic administration of amphetamine. The effect of these drugs on amphetamine-induced circling behavior is evaluated. Using this model, we have found that pilocarpine and muscimol can inhibit amphetamine-induced circling and their effects are blocked by the systemic administration of scopolamine and picrotoxin, respectively. In addition, ethyleneglycol-bis-(β-amino-ethyl ether) N,N′-tetraacetic acid (EGTA), a calcium chelating agent, inhibited amphetamine-induced circling behavior and this effect is prevented by adding calcium to the EGTA solution. Finally, the intrastriatal administration of prostaglandin E2 but not its metabolite, 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin 2 inhibited amphetamine-induced circling suggesting a selective effect of the active prostaglandin. These results suggest that this procedure could be used for evaluating both the mechanism of action of drugs in the striatum as well as screening drugs for their therapeutic potential.
Indicators and the Federal Statistical System: An Essential but Fraught Partnership

An indicator can be defined as a statistic used as part of an assessment exercise. There have been three relatively distinct waves of interest in indicators at the national level. Indicator work creates both opportunities and hazards for federal statistical agencies. Indicators not only increase the accessibility of federal statistics but also expose statistical agencies to charges of partisanship that can jeopardize both the credibility of their products and the agencies’ abilities to accomplish their core mission of collecting data from an increasingly wary public. Managing the tension between the scientific and political dimensions of indicator work involves acknowledging the value-laden nature of indicator development and establishing a clear division of labor, with political entities assuming responsibility for grappling with the most obviously normative issues and statistical agencies limiting their involvement in such work to the provision of statistical scientific expertise.
Group dynamics and collaborative group performance

This work resulted from an investigation of the activities component of group dynamics in collaborative (or cooperative) groups for two undergraduate sections of computer architecture taught in spring 2002. A cooperative group is a special type of small group consisting of two to four persons. Collaborative learning as used here is a central component of the author devised integrative cooperative learning teaching technique. The hypothesis for this study is that the greater a student's level of within group course related activities for the imposed course assignments, the higher the student's relative course outcomes. To examine this hypothesis, an analysis of the relationship between a student's group activity and course outcomes was done. The sources of data were the student coordinator assessments and student journals compiled throughout the semester. The results of the analyses of the 63 students in the two sections of the undergraduate computer architecture course substantiated the hypothesis that the more a student participates in out-of-class collaborative academic group activity, the greater the student's achievement.
The neurobiology of modafinil as an enhancer of cognitive performance and a potential treatment for substance use disorders

Rationale and objectives Modafinil (MOD) and its R-enantiomer (R-MOD) are approved medications for narcolepsy and other sleep disorders. They have also been used, off-label, as cognitive enhancers in populations of patients with mental disorders, including substance abusers that demonstrate impaired cognitive function. A debated nonmedical use of MOD in healthy individuals to improve intellectual performance is raising questions about its potential abuse liability in this population.
Modulation of metabolic syndrome-related inflammation by cocoa

Cocoa (Theobroma cacao L., Sterculiaceae) is a widely consumed food ingredient. Although typically found in high-fat, high-sugar foods such as chocolate, cocoa is rich in polyphenols, methylxanthines, and monounsaturated fatty acids. There is increasing evidence that moderate consumption of cocoa and cocoa-containing foods may have beneficial effects on the health including vasodilatory, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. Polyphenols in cocoa, including monomeric flavanols, as well as polymeric proanthocyanidins, may play a role in these observed beneficial effects. Chronic inflammation represents a potential mechanistic link between obesity and its related pathologies: insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hypertension, which comprise the metabolic syndrome. In the present review, we discuss the available data regarding the modulation of metabolic syndrome-related inflammation by cocoa and cocoa-derived compounds. We emphasize studies using laboratory animals or human subjects since such studies often represent the strongest available evidence for biological effects. In vitro studies are included to provide some mechanistic context, but are critically interpreted. Although the available data seem to support the anti-inflammatory effects of cocoa, further studies are needed with regard to the dose-response relationship as well as the underlying mechanisms of action. We hope this review will stimulate further research on cocoa and its anti-inflammatory activities.
EFFECTS OF ACIDOSIS ON RESPIRATORY FUNCTION

Summary and Conclusions The net effect of acidosis on the respiratory apparatus is an elevation of ventilation-perfusion ratios. Alveolar ventilation is augmented; perfusion of the well-ventilated portion of the lung is enhanced, while perfusion of the poorly ventilated space is diminished. A larger volume of oxygen is made available for release to the tissues. Carbon dioxide has been shown to have no effect on the pulmonary vasculature or on the oxyhemoglobin dissociation curve independent of the changes in hydrogen ion concentration it produces. Its role with respect to the control of ventilation has not yet clearly been defined.
Task and ego orientation

Abstract When approaching achievement tasks, people can focus on different types of goals, for example, task mastery (task orientation) and/or demonstrating one's superior ability (ego orientation). We investigated the extent to which dispositional task and ego orientations towards a personally valued activity predict anticipated affective reactions to a hypothetical situation involving the activity. College students were asked to think of a career-related activity or a competitive sport that was personally important to them. Half of the students were further told that the activity should be one that they enjoyed for its own sake, and the other half were told that the activity should be one at which they wanted to be outstanding. In the hypothetical situation, students imagined that they succeeded at the activity with much effort, but others succeeded with less effort. Task orientation predicted anticipated positive affect in the outstanding performance context, but was not significant in the enjoyment context. Ego orientation predicted anticipated negative affect in the enjoyment context, but was not significant in the outstanding performance context. The ego orientation effects only held for students with low perceived ability. Women scored higher than men on task orientation and anticipated more positive affect. Differences in the task value of competitive sports and career-related activities were also explored.