@techreport{pittir16275, number = {10.1111/criq.2012.54.issue-2}, month = {July}, publisher = {Wiley}, year = {2012}, institution = {University of Pittsburgh}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16275/} } @incollection{pittir12742, title = {Cloud Computing and Services Science}, publisher = {Springer New York}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12742/} } @book{pittir13358, editor = {Susan Alman and Margaret Lincoln and Christinger Tomer}, title = {Designing Online Learning: A Primer for Librarians}, address = {Santa Barbara, California}, publisher = {Libraries Unlimited}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13358/} } @article{pittir20528, volume = {50}, number = {03}, month = {November}, title = {Encyclopedia of the Sciences of Learning}, publisher = {American Library Association}, year = {2012}, journal = {Choice Reviews Online}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20528/} } @book{pittir20573, month = {January}, series = {A Paradigm Handbook}, note = {Ebook published in 2013: ISBN: 978-1-61205-394-3}, editor = {Jackie Smith and Ellen Reese and Scott Byrd and Elizabeth Smythe}, address = {Boulder, CO}, title = {Handbook on World Social Forum Activism}, publisher = {Paradigm Publishers}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20573/} } @book{pittir17436, editor = {Markus Werning and Wolfram Hinzen and Edouard Machery}, title = {The Oxford Handbook of Compositionality}, address = {Oxford}, publisher = {Oxford University Press}, year = {2012}, series = {Oxford handbooks in linguistics}, note = {Compositionality (Linguistics)}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17436/} } @misc{pittir19484, title = {Special Feature: Behind the Seams with Brian Beaton}, address = {The Journal of Interactive Technology and Pedagogy}, publisher = {CUNY Graduate Center}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19484/}, abstract = {In Behind the Seams, the editors and authors reflect on the oft-hidden path from initial submission to published piece. This feature centers on a recorded audio conversation{--}not an interview, but an open-ended discussion{--}built around observations and recollections of what stands out in the process of developing, editing, and publishing an article with JITP.} } @unpublished{pittir13045, month = {September}, title = {Association of measures of muscle density and SNPs in homologs of muscle function genes in C.elegans}, author = {SEVINC ALKAN}, year = {2012}, keywords = {SARCOPENIA}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13045/}, abstract = {Sarcopenia, the loss of muscle mass and strength that occurs with aging, has a crucial role in development of frailty. Sarcopenia is recognized as one of the major public health problems affecting approximately 8-40\% of individuals greater than age 60 years worldwide. Although sarcopenia and other muscle-related traits are heritable, the underlying genetic variation contributing to the development of sarcopenia is unclear. Previously, researchers identified 18 genes that will delay the onset of sarcopenia in an animal model for aging, Caenorhabditis elegans (Kashyap, 2010), of which 14 have a human homolog and SNP genotypes that were assayed in individuals from the Health, Aging, and Body Composition Study (Health ABC). The primary aim of this study is to assess whether there is a relationship between {\ensuremath{>}}700 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) total in 27 genes [14 genes identified from C. elegans and 13 genes in the mevalonate and ubiquinone pathways] and six traits related to sarcopenia using data from the HealthABC cohort. The 6 outcome variables are isokinetic leg muscle maximum torque( KCTMAX), thigh muscle density(THMUSD), thigh intermuscular fat area(THIMF), total lean mass (TOTLEAN), total percent fat(TOTPF) and thigh total muscle area(THMUS). The European and African American cohort were analyzed separately. After adjusting for the effects of gender, age, and ancestry, single SNP: single trait association tests were performed. Although no SNPs were statistically significant at the experiment-wide p-value (p{\ensuremath{<}} 0.00001), SNPs in the locus MAGOHB were associated with THIMF, THMUSD, and TOTPF in European Americans, whereas SNPs in CYP3A5 were associated with these traits in African Americans (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.01 for all). Furthermore, SNPs in GOLGA4 (P{\ensuremath{<}}0.01) and RALGABP (P{\ensuremath{<}}0.001) were associated with TOTPF in African Americans, and SNPs in RALGABP were also associated with THIMF and TOTLEAN in African Americans. These results indicate that variation in some genes related to development of muscle-wasting in an animal model, C. elegans, may have pleiotropic effects on traits related to sarcopenia in older men and women. Follow-up studies of variation in these genes could elucidate the mechanisms involved in development of sarcopenia.} } @article{pittir32624, month = {December}, title = {Reliable OFDM system design under hostile multi-tone jamming}, author = {Mai Abdelhakim and Jian Ren and Tongtong Li}, publisher = {IEEE}, year = {2012}, journal = {2012 IEEE Global Communications Conference (GLOBECOM)}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/32624/} } @article{pittir32627, title = {Reliable Cooperative Sensing in Cognitive Networks}, author = {Mai Abdelhakim and Jian Ren and Tongtong Li}, publisher = {Springer Berlin Heidelberg}, year = {2012}, pages = {206 -- 217}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/32627/} } @article{pittir22944, volume = {58}, number = {1}, month = {January}, author = {S Abramovich and C Schunn}, title = {Studying teacher selection of resources in an ultra-large scale interactive system: Does metadata guide the way?}, journal = {Computers and Education}, pages = {551 -- 559}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22944/}, abstract = {Ultra-large-scale interactive systems on the Internet have begun to change how teachers prepare for instruction, particularly in regards to resource selection. Consequently, it is important to look at how teachers are currently selecting resources beyond content or keyword search. We conducted a two-part observational study of an existing popular system called TeachersPayTeachers hypothesizing that 'evaluative metadata' (i.e. comments, ratings, and popularity measures) would drive selection of resources. The first part examined patterns in tens of thousands of sales overall, and the second part focused on patterns of sales in one focal topic that could be expert coded. We find that there are significant gaps in available metadata, that some aspects of metadata are closely associated with sales, and that metadata are weak correlates of expert-determined quality. We conclude by making suggestions for additional research and suggesting how ultra-large scale-interactive systems such as TeachersPayTeachers could be used to improve teacher education. {\copyright} 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.} } @article{pittir12701, volume = {8}, number = {6}, month = {January}, title = {Multilocus sequence typing as a replacement for serotyping in Salmonella enterica}, author = {M Achtman and J Wain and FX Weill and S Nair and Z Zhou and V Sangal and MG Krauland and JL Hale and H Harbottle and A Uesbeck and G Dougan and LH Harrison and S Brisse}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS Pathogens}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12701/}, abstract = {Salmonella enterica subspecies enterica is traditionally subdivided into serovars by serological and nutritional characteristics. We used Multilocus Sequence Typing (MLST) to assign 4,257 isolates from 554 serovars to 1092 sequence types (STs). The majority of the isolates and many STs were grouped into 138 genetically closely related clusters called eBurstGroups (eBGs). Many eBGs correspond to a serovar, for example most Typhimurium are in eBG1 and most Enteritidis are in eBG4, but many eBGs contained more than one serovar. Furthermore, most serovars were polyphyletic and are distributed across multiple unrelated eBGs. Thus, serovar designations confounded genetically unrelated isolates and failed to recognize natural evolutionary groupings. An inability of serotyping to correctly group isolates was most apparent for Paratyphi B and its variant Java. Most Paratyphi B were included within a sub-cluster of STs belonging to eBG5, which also encompasses a separate sub-cluster of Java STs. However, diphasic Java variants were also found in two other eBGs and monophasic Java variants were in four other eBGs or STs, one of which is in subspecies salamae and a second of which includes isolates assigned to Enteritidis, Dublin and monophasic Paratyphi B. Similarly, Choleraesuis was found in eBG6 and is closely related to Paratyphi C, which is in eBG20. However, Choleraesuis var. Decatur consists of isolates from seven other, unrelated eBGs or STs. The serological assignment of these Decatur isolates to Choleraesuis likely reflects lateral gene transfer of flagellar genes between unrelated bacteria plus purifying selection. By confounding multiple evolutionary groups, serotyping can be misleading about the disease potential of S. enterica. Unlike serotyping, MLST recognizes evolutionary groupings and we recommend that Salmonella classification by serotyping should be replaced by MLST or its equivalents.} } @unpublished{pittir13049, month = {September}, title = {Incorporating Diagnostic Accuracy into the Estimation of Discrete Survival Function}, author = {Abidemi Kassim Adeniji}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Misclassification, Measurement error, Diagnostic testing, Product limit estimation, Generalized estimating equations, Binary classification}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13049/}, abstract = {The Empirical distribution function (EDF) is a commonly used estimator of the population cumulative distribution function. The Survival function is estimated as the complement of the EDF. However, the clinical diagnosis of an event is often subject to misclassification, by which the event is assessed with some uncertainty. In the presence of such errors, the true distribution of the time to first event is unknown. We develop a method to estimate the true survival distribution by incorporating negative predictive values (NPV) and positive predictive values (PPV), which are assumed to be known, into a product-limit style construction of a survival function. This allows us to quantify the bias of the EDF that do not account for misclassification due to the presence of misclassified events in the observed data. We present an unbiased estimator of the true survival function and its variance. In addition to dealing with misclassified clinical outcomes, this dissertation addresses survival function estimates in the presence of misclassified and incomplete data. The product limit (KM) estimator is commonly used to estimate the survival function when follow-up time is incomplete due to drop-outs. Typically this method is employed assuming that the outcome is known with certainty. We develop a method to estimate the true survival distribution by incorporating the NPV and PPV into a Kaplan-Meier-like construction. This allows us to quantify the bias in the KM survival estimates due to the presence of misclassified events in the observed data. We present an unbiased estimator of the true survival function and its variance. Asymptotic properties of the proposed estimators are provided and these properties are examined through simulations. We demonstrate our methods using data from the VIRAHEP-C study. Estimating the true distribution of time to an event such as time to symptom resolution among subgroups of population with certain characteristics is of public health importance. When the event is measured with error, the actual distribution cannot be estimated without bias, providing an inaccurate picture of the population. The new methods provide clinical investigators with a tool to accurately estimate the survival probabilities in the presence of misclassified events. } } @unpublished{pittir11990, month = {May}, title = {INVESTIGATING L1 ARABIC AND L1 KOREAN ACQUISITION OF THE PASSIVE VOICE IN L2 ENGLISH}, author = {Elizabeth Adler}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Second Language Acquisition, Passive Voice, Error Analysis}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11990/}, abstract = {This thesis investigates how learners from specific first language (L1) groups, Arabic and Korean, use the passive voice in English, their second language (L2). This study analyzes both spoken and written classroom data from English language learners (ELLs), six L1 Korean learners and six L1 Arabic learners, over the course of three semesters at an intensive English program (IEP) in the United States. The main goals of the analysis are to identify, categorize and quantify the errors the learners make when they use the passive voice. The results indicate that there are general obstacles that all of the ELLs face, as well as patterns of use specific to each L1 group. The key finding for the L1 Korean learners is that their most common error is using the passive voice when they should use the active voice. The key finding for the L1 Arabic learners is that their most common error is not using an auxiliary verb. However, lexical learning and other common errors, such as incorrectly conjugating the auxiliary verb and past participle, and certain patterns of use, such as rarely including by-phrases, are evident in both groups. This study also found that passivizing intransitive verbs, an error thought to commonly plague ELLs when they learn the passive voice, did not occur in the participants? production data. In light of the results, this thesis offers suggestions for future research and instructional practices in the Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) field.} } @unpublished{pittir16185, month = {December}, title = {Regulation of Toll-like Receptor 4 Signaling and Expression by Endogenous Heat Shock Protein 70 in the Newborn Intestinal Epithelium}, author = {Amin Afrazi}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Intestine, Lipopolysaccharide, Toll-like Receptors, Innate Immunity, Heat Shock Response, Chaperone, Heat Shock Proteins, ER stress, Unfolded Protein Response, Necrotizing Enterocolitis, Neonate, Inflammation, Apoptosis, Ubiquitination, CHIP, Caspase }, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16185/}, abstract = {Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is the leading cause of gastrointestinal-related mortality in premature infants, and it develops under conditions of exaggerated TLR4 signaling in the newborn intestinal epithelium. Because NEC does not develop spontaneously, despite the presence of seemingly tonic stimulation of intestinal TLR4, we hypothesized that mechanisms must exist to constrain TLR4 signaling that become diminished during NEC pathogenesis and focused on the intracellular stress response protein and chaperone heat shock protein-70 (Hsp70). We demonstrate that the induction of intracellular Hsp70 in enterocytes dramatically reduced TLR4 signaling, as assessed by LPS-induced NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B translocation, cytokine expression, and apoptosis. These findings were confirmed in vivo, using mice that either globally lacked Hsp70 or overexpressed Hsp70 within the intestinal epithelium. TLR4 activation itself significantly increased Hsp70 expression in enterocytes, which provided a mechanism of autoinhibition of TLR4 signaling in enterocytes. In seeking to define the mechanisms involved, intracellular Hsp70-mediated inhibition of TLR4 signaling required both its substrate-binding EEVD domain and association with the cochaperone CHIP, resulting in ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation of TLR4. The expression of Hsp70 in the intestinal epithelium was significantly decreased in murine and human NEC compared with healthy controls, suggesting that loss of Hsp70 protection from TLR4 could lead to NEC. In support of this, intestinal Hsp70 overexpression in mice and pharmacologic upregulation of Hsp70 reversed TLR4-induced cytokines and enterocyte apoptosis, as well as prevented and treated experimental NEC. Thus, a novel TLR4 regulatory pathway exists within the newborn gut involving Hsp70 that may be pharmacologically activated to limit NEC severity.} } @unpublished{pittir25187, booktitle = {ALISE?12, Extending Our Reach: Expanding Horizons, Extending Opportunity}, month = {January}, title = {Evolving roles: Research support services in the academic libraries of Australia, Ireland, New Zealand and the UK.}, author = {Waseem Afzal and Sheila Corrall and Mary Anne Kennan}, year = {2012}, note = {Works in Progress poster session presented at the annual conference of the Association for Library and Information Science Education (ALISE)}, keywords = {Academic, libraries, Bibliometrics, e-Research, Professional, education, Research, data, management, Scholarly, communication}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/25187/}, abstract = {With digitization of resources and development of institutional repositories, changes in government policy and tertiary education funding, and increased focus on research outcomes and research evaluation, academic libraries are reviewing their traditional foci on collections, reference, and information literacy, and increasingly offering services that support academics in their research practice, in areas such as data management and bibliometrics. The study aims to investigate existing and planned services in the libraries of Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, and the U.K, and library readiness for research support, with particular regard to education and training. The proposed research takes a pragmatic approach using an online survey, which will be analyzed using descriptive statistics. The study will extend and update existing knowledge of library support for research. It will inform current practice in the countries surveyed and complement work done in North America, providing a more comprehensive picture of the current situation and enabling international comparisons of emerging practices.} } @article{pittir16735, volume = {2}, title = {Inclusion body myositis: therapeutic approaches.}, author = {Rohit Aggarwal and Chester V Oddis}, year = {2012}, pages = {43 -- 52}, journal = {Degener Neurol Neuromuscul Dis}, keywords = {clinical features, inclusion body myositis, treatment}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16735/}, abstract = {The idiopathic inflammatory myopathies are a heterogeneous group of diseases that include dermatomyositis (DM), polymyositis (PM), inclusion body myositis (IBM) and other less common myopathies. These are clinically and histopathologically distinct diseases with many shared clinical features. IBM, the most commonly acquired inflammatory muscle disease occurs in individuals aged over 50 years, and is characterized by slowly progressive muscle weakness and atrophy affecting proximal and distal muscle groups, often asymmetrically. Unlike DM and PM, IBM is typically refractory to immunotherapy. Although corticosteroids have not been tested in randomized controlled trials, the general consensus is that they are not efficacious. There is some suggestion that intravenous immunoglobulin slows disease progression, but its long-term effectiveness is unclear. The evidence for other immunosuppressive therapies has been derived mainly from case reports and open studies and the results are discouraging. Only a few clinical trials have been conducted on IBM, making it difficult to provide clear recommendations for treatment. Moreover, IBM is a slowly progressive disease so assessment of treatment efficacy is problematic due to the longer-duration trials needed to determine treatment effects. Newer therapies may be promising, but further investigation to document efficacy would be expensive given the aforementioned need for longer trials. In this review, various treatments that have been employed in IBM will be discussed even though none of the interventions has sufficient evidence to support its routine use.} } @unpublished{pittir13076, month = {September}, title = {Medical Conditions Among Hospitalized Older Adult Drivers}, author = {Yll Agimi}, year = {2012}, keywords = {matched case-control, conditional logistic regression, hospitalized drivers medical conditions}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13076/}, abstract = {Motor-vehicle related deaths and injuries are a significant concern for older adults. In 2007, unintentional injuries, including motor-vehicle related injuries, represented the 9th leading cause of death, and the 4th leading cause of injury for adults 65 and older. And as seniors are living longer and an increasing proportion continue to drive at later ages, functional and medical conditions, related to driving performance and crash risk, have received renewed attention. A number of medical conditions are considered to impact driving performance and have been linked to increased crash risk. There is a general lack of knowledge on the prevalence of these driving-related medical conditions among the older adult drivers population, including those involved in crashes. This study is an attempt to estimate the prevalence of driving-related medical conditions among crash-related hospitalized older adults, and determine role of driving-related conditions on in-hospital death. Furthermore, a matched case-control dimension of this study compares the prevalence of driving-related medical conditions among hospitalized drivers to two control groups, those in knee replacement surgeries as well as those in other most frequent elective procedures, matched on key demographic factors. The public health significance of this research is its findings on the prevalence of medical conditions among hospitalized older drivers, its results that driving-related conditions are not uniformly overrepresented among hospitalized drivers and that drivers with cardiovascular conditions are significantly more likely to die in-hospital, following a motor-vehicle crash, than those without such conditions. These results inform stakeholders on the health characteristics of older drivers to guide policies that ensure the safe mobility of this population in an aging society.} } @unpublished{pittir12018, month = {July}, title = {Role of State Driver Licensing Policies and Physician Reporting Laws on Older Driver Safety}, author = {Yll Agimi}, year = {2012}, keywords = {physician reporting, older driver safety, vehicle-related crash hospitalizations, fatal crashes, dementia, negative binomial modeling}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12018/}, abstract = {This study aimed to determine the effect of state licensing and physician reporting requirements on older driver safety, guided by hypotheses that states with stricter requirements would result in lower fatal crash rates, lower older driver crash hospitalization rates and a lower prevalence of dementia among those hospitalized compared to states with fewer requirements. Three separate studies were performed. The first study used 2004 to 2009 fatal crashes to examine the effect of state requirements on fatal crash incidence rates using Generalized Estimating Equation (GEE) negative binomial regression models. The second study compared 2004 to 2009 crash-related hospitalizations according to state licensing requirements; with hospitalization incidence rates estimated using three GEE negative binomial regression models. The third study examined crash-related hospitalized drivers to estimate the effect of state requirements on the prevalence of dementia using logistic regression models. Vision testing at in person renewals showed consistent association with lower fatal crash rates, lower hospitalization rates and a lower prevalence of dementia among those hospitalized. Vision testing was especially predictive of a lower crash fatality rate among drivers ages 80 to 84 and lower dementia prevalence among hospitalized drivers ages 60 to 69, reaffirming the safety benefits of vision testing. Physician reporting requirements, mandated or legally protected, and length of licensing renewal lacked any independent association with fatal crash rates, crash-hospitalization rates or dementia prevalence. The public health significance of this research is its finding that more restrictions on driving do not translate in lower crash rates among older drivers. This research informs older drivers, their families, physicians and state agencies on licensing and reporting requirements that provide safety benefits to assist their safety and mobility decisions. It also informs stakeholders on the utility of screening older patient drivers and demonstrates the need for improved physician tools for the assessment of older adult driving safety.} } @article{pittir12507, volume = {17}, number = {4}, month = {August}, author = {A Aksu and P Krishnamurthy and D Tipper and O Ercetin}, title = {On Security and reliability using cooperative transmissions in sensor networks}, journal = {Mobile Networks and Applications}, pages = {526 -- 542}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12507/}, abstract = {Cooperative transmissions have received recent attention and research papers have demonstrated their benefits for wireless networks. Such benefits include improving the reliability of links through diversity and/or increasing the reach of a link compared to a single transmitter transmitting to a single receiver (single-input single-output or SISO). In one form of cooperative transmissions, multiple nodes can act as virtual antenna elements and provide diversity gain or range improvement using space-time coding. In a multi-hop ad hoc or sensor network, a source node can make use of its neighbors as relays with itself to reach an intermediate node with greater reliability or at a larger distance than otherwise possible. The intermediate node will use its neighbors in a similar manner and this process continues till the destination is reached. Thus, for the same reliability of a link as SISO, the number of hops between a source and destination may be reduced using cooperative transmissions as each hop spans a larger distance. However, the presence of ma-licious or compromised nodes in the network impacts the benefits obtained with cooperative transmissions. Using more relays can increase the reach of a link, but if one or more relays are malicious, the transmission may fail. However, the relationships between the number of relays, the number of hops, and success probabilities are not trivial to determine. In this paper, we analyze this problem to understand the conditions under which cooperative transmissions fare better or worse than SISO transmissions. We take into consideration additional parameters such as the path-loss exponent and provide a framework that allows us to evaluate the conditions when cooperative transmissions are better than SISO transmissions. This analysis provides insights that can be employed before resorting to simulations or experimentation. {\copyright} Springer Science+Business Media, LLC 2012.} } @article{pittir29907, volume = {16}, number = {3}, month = {January}, author = {M Al Hasan and R Murugan}, title = {Stenting versus aggressive medical therapy for intracranial arterial stenosis: more harm than good}, journal = {Critical care (London, England)}, pages = {310 -- ?}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29907/}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Atherosclerotic intracranial arterial stenosis is an important cause of stroke that is increasingly being treated with percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and stenting (PTAS) to prevent recurrent stroke. However, PTAS has not been compared with medical management in a randomized trial.} } @unpublished{pittir13471, month = {September}, title = {EVALUATION OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE ROYAL HOSPITAL?S ELECTRONIC REFERRAL SYSTEM}, author = {Shihab Hamed Al Subhi}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Electronic Referral Fax Referral Waiting Time}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13471/}, abstract = {The study evaluates the effectiveness of the electronic referral system in reducing waiting time for patients who are referred to Royal Hospital for coronary angiography. The Study hypothesis is that with the current workflow, patients who are referred to Royal Hospital for coronary angiography using electronic referral system have relatively the same or higher waiting time when compared with patients who are referred with the fax referral system. It is a comparative retrospective study that analyzes a random sample of 392 referral requests received from two secondary hospitals from January 1st, 2009 to June 30th, 2012. The study measures the waiting time for each referral request and calculates the median waiting time for the fax and electronic referral requests. Waiting time for referrals received by fax are distributed according to the following: 1) 98 referral requests (50\%) was 3 days or less; 2) 69 referral requests (35\%) was 4 to 7 days; 3) 26 referral requests (13\%) was 8 to 14 days; 4) 3 referral requests (2\%) was 15 to 20 days; 5) 0 referral requests (0\%) was over 20 days. The minimum waiting time was 0 days and the maximum was 16 days. The median waiting was 3.5 days. For the electronic referral requests, 1) 77 referral requests (39\%) was 3 days or less; 2) 64 referral requests (33\%) was 4 to 7 days; 3) 37 referral requests (19\%) was 8 to 14 days; 4) 14 referral requests (7\%) was 15 to 20 days; 5) 4 referral requests (2\%) was over 20 days. The minimum waiting time was 1 day and the maximum was 21 days. The median waiting time was 5 days. The differences seen between the average wait time for electronic referrals and fax referrals was statistically significant (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.001). Based on these results a new workflow model was developed and simulated within the Cardiology Department at Royal Hospital in Oman. The current workflow increases the waiting time for electronic referral requests when compared with fax referral system. Changes to the current workflow are required to eliminate the inefficiencies that hinder the effectiveness of the system. } } @unpublished{pittir11506, month = {May}, title = {DIFFERENTIAL PREDICTIVE VALIDITY OF HIGH SCHOOL GPA AND COLLEGE ENTRANCE TEST SCORES FOR UNIVERSITY STUDENTS IN YEMEN }, author = {Abdulghani Ali Dawod Al-Hattami}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Predictive Validity, Admission, High School GPA, Standardized Tests, Entrance Test Scores}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11506/}, abstract = {High school grade point average and college entrance test scores are two admission criteria that are currently used by most colleges in Yemen to select their prospective students. Given their widespread use, it is important to investigate their predictive validity to ensure the accuracy of the admission decisions in these institutions. This study was conducted to investigate the predictive validity of both high school GPA and college entrance test scores used as predictors in the admission process to Yemeni colleges. In addition, the differential predictive validity of high school GPA and college entrance test scores was examined across gender and high school location. The relationship between students? persistence in the four years of college and the predictor variables, high school GPA and college entrance test scores, was studied as well. College entrance test scores were examined for their reliability in order to evaluate any potential influence of measurement error on the analyses. The sample in the study consisted of 881 cohort students from two public universities in Yemen. The data analysis for this study included reliability coefficient analysis, multiple and logistic regression analyses, and Gulliksen and Wilks (1950) tests for differential prediction. Results showed that high school GPA and college entrance test scores were both significant predictors of academic performance as measured by first-year college GPA and four-year cumulative GPA. However, differential predictive evidence was observed for different gender and rural/urban subpopulations. The results implied that using common regression equations to predict academic performance may result in unfair admission decisions. Finally, while high school GPA was not a significant predictor of college persistence, the predictive validity was enhanced when college entrance test scores were added to the prediction equation of college persistence. In summary, high school GPA explained a very small portion of the total variance of first-year college GPA and four-year cumulative GPA. Therefore, a comprehensive review of the use of high school GPA for admission decisions is strongly recommended.} } @article{pittir17321, volume = {116}, number = {30}, month = {August}, author = {WA Al-Saidi and SA Asher and P Norman}, title = {Resonance raman spectra of TNT and RDX using vibronic theory, excited-state gradient, and complex polarizability approximations}, journal = {Journal of Physical Chemistry A}, pages = {7862 -- 7872}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17321/}, abstract = {Geometries, UV absorption bands, and resonance Raman (RR) cross sections of TNT and RDX are investigated using density functional theory (DFT) in conjunction with the Coulomb attenuated B3LYP exchange-correlation functional. The absorption and RR spectra are determined with use of vibronic (VB) theory, excited-state gradient, and complex polarizability (CPP) approximations. We examined low-energy isomers (two for TNT and four for RDX) whose energies differ by less than 1 kcal/mol, such that they would appreciably be populated at room temperature. The two TNT isomers differ by an internal rotation of the methyl group, while the four conformers of RDX differ by the arrangements of the nitro group relative to the ring. Our theoretical optical properties of the TNT and RDX isomers are in excellent agreement with experimental and recent CCSD-EOM results, respectively. For the two TNT isomers, the ultraviolet RR (UVRR) spectra are similar and in good agreement with recently measured experimental results. Additionally, the UVRR spectra computed using the excited-state and CPP approaches compare favorably with the VB theory results. On the other hand, the RR spectra of the RDX conformers differ from one another, reflecting the importance of the positioning of the NO 2 groups with respect to the ring. In the gas phase or in solution, RDX would give a spectrum associated with a conformationally averaged structure. It is encouraging that the computed spectra of the conformers show similarities to recent measured RDX spectra in acetonitrile solution, and reproduce the 10-fold decrease in the absolute Raman cross sections of RDX compared to TNT for the observed 229 nm excitation. We show that in TNT and RDX vibrational bands that couple to NO 2 or the ring are particularly resonance enhanced. Finally, the computed RDX spectra of the conformers present a benchmark for understanding the RR spectra of the solid-phase polymorphs of RDX. {\copyright} 2012 American Chemical Society.} } @article{pittir18578, volume = {8}, number = {4}, month = {April}, author = {WA Al-Saidi and VK Voora and KD Jordan}, title = {An assessment of the vdW-TS method for extended systems}, journal = {Journal of Chemical Theory and Computation}, pages = {1503 -- 1513}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18578/}, abstract = {The Tkatchenko-Scheffler vdW-TS method [Phys. Rev. Lett. 2009, 102, 073005] has been implemented in a plane-wave DFT code and used to characterize several dispersion-dominated systems, including layered materials, noble-gas solids, and molecular crystals. Full optimizations of the structures, including relaxation of the stresses on the unit cells, were carried out. Internal geometrical parameters, lattice constants, bulk moduli, and cohesive energies are reported and compared to experimental results. {\copyright} 2012 American Chemical Society.} } @unpublished{pittir11679, month = {June}, title = {The Use of Technology in Vestibular Rehabilitation and Balance Assessment}, author = {Khalid Alahmari}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Vestibular Disorders, Vestibular Rehabilitation, Virtual Reality Technology, Virtual Reality Based Therapy, Balance Assessment, Balance Rehabilitation Unit}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11679/}, abstract = {Background study 1: Individuals with vestibular disorders usually complain of dizziness and visual vertigo in visually complex environments. Habituation exercises using visually provocative stimuli have been shown to be useful during vestibular rehabilitation. Virtual reality based therapy (VRBT) is an emerging technology that can be used in vestibular rehabilitation to provide visual habituation exercises for individuals with vestibular disorders. The purpose of the study was to explore the use of VRBT in the treatment of individuals with vestibular disorders and to examine the difference in self report and performance measures between VRBT and customized physical therapy (PT). Methods: Forty subjects with vestibular disorders participated in the study; subjects were assigned into two groups (VRBT or PT). Both groups had six treatment sessions for six weeks, and were assessed using self-report and performance measures. Results: Both groups improved similarly in most of self-report and performance measures and maintained improvements for six months after the intervention ended. Background study 2: Falling is a risk factor associated with vestibular disorders that can impact quality of life and reduce participation in daily life. Falling can be caused by a decline in function of sensory inputs associated with aging. Measuring sensory control during standing may help to investigate age and vestibular disease effects on balance. The Balance Rehabilitation Unit (BRU) utilizes high technology in balance assessment. The psychometric properties of the BRU including the reliability and validity have not been studied. The purpose of study 2 was to examine the reliability and validity of the BRU in the assessment of people with and without vestibular disorders. Methods: Ninety subjects (30 young healthy, 30 older healthy over 60 years of age, 30 individuals with vestibular disorders) participated in this study. Results: The BRU provided a reliable and valid measure for measuring the sensory contributions to postural control for healthy persons and people with vestibular disorders and was able to discriminate age and disease effect on balance.} } @unpublished{pittir12260, month = {July}, title = {A COMPARISON OF NARROW-PLATFORM (3.0-3.6mm) vs WIDER PLATFORM (3.7-6mm) DENTAL IMPLANTS }, author = {Husain Alarfaj}, year = {2012}, keywords = {dental implant, bone loss, narrow, wide, crestal bone loss,comparison, compare, narrow-diameter, wide-diameter}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12260/}, abstract = {Retrospective research accessing the Electronic Health Record (EHR) of the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine [axiUm database and software, Exan Group, Las Vegas, Nevada]. The research compared the success (survival) of narrow-platform dental implants (3.0-3.6mm) vs. wider-platform dental implants (3.7-6mm) in the posterior maxilla and mandible (molars and premolars), and, using axiUm measuring tools, evaluated marginal bone loss in each tooth/implant investigated. Datapoints from standard oral radiographs (periapical x-rays) existing in the Electronic Health Record were measured and recorded. Analysis of the data from the Electronic Health Record shows that both narrow and wider-diameter implants will present statistically significant marginal bone loss post-placement and restoration, averaging 0.7mm initial bone loss for the narrow diameter implants and 0.5mm initial bone loss for the wider-diameter implants. These results, from analysis of this existing University of Pittsburgh Electronic Health Record data, may not reflect the success rate anticipated clinically, nor that expected from anecdotal experience. } } @article{pittir29940, volume = {13}, month = {March}, title = {Standing orders for influenza and pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccination: Correlates identified in a national survey of U.S. Primary care physicians}, author = {SM Albert and MP Nowalk and MA Yonas and RK Zimmerman and F Ahmed}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Family Practice}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29940/}, abstract = {Background: Standing orders programs (SOPs) allow non-physician medical staff to assess eligibility and administer vaccines without a specific physician's order. SOPs increase vaccination rates but are underutilized. Method. In 2009, correlates of SOPs use for influenza vaccine and pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccination (PPV) were assessed in a nationally representative, stratified random sample of U.S. physicians (n = 880) in family and internal medicine who provided office immunization. The response rate was 67\%. Physicians reporting no SOPs, only influenza SOPs, and joint influenza and PPV SOPs were compared using multinomial and logistic regression models to examine individual and practice-level correlates. Results: 23\% reported using SOPs consistently for both influenza vaccine and PPV, and 20\% for influenza vaccination only, with the remainder not using SOPs. Practice-level factors that distinguished practices with joint influenza-PPV SOPs included perceived practice openness to change, strong practice teamwork, access to an electronic medical record, presence of an immunization champion in the practice, and access to nurse/physician assistant staff as opposed to medical assistants alone. Discussion. Physicians in practices with SOPs for both vaccines reported greater awareness of ACIP recommendations and/or Medicare regulations and were more likely to agree that SOPs are an effective way to boost vaccination coverage. However, implementation of both influenza and PPV SOPs was also associated with a variety of practice-level factors, including teamwork, the presence of an immunization champion, and greater availability of clinical assistants with advanced training. Conclusions: Practice-level factors are critical for the adoption of more complex SOPs, such as joint SOPs for influenza and PPV. {\copyright} 2012 Albert et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir11546, month = {June}, title = {Mirror Affect: Interpersonal Spectatorship in Installation Art since the 1960s}, author = {Cristina Albu}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Installation art, affect theory, relational aesthetics, participatory art, new media, interpersonal spectatorship}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11546/}, abstract = {This dissertation traces the genealogy of interpersonal spectatorship in contemporary installations that encourage viewers to affectively relate to one another by watching themselves seeing and acting individually or as a group. By incorporating reflective surfaces, live video feedback, or sensors in their works, contemporary artists around the world have been challenging what had come to be a binary relation between the beholder and the art object, thereby, heightening viewers' awareness of the social and spatial contexts of aesthetic experience. Starting with the 1960s there has been not only an increasingly sharp departure from the autonomy of the art object on the part of artists, but also a rejection of prevailing self-focused and private modes of art spectatorship on the part of viewers of art. Situated between theories of relational aesthetics and new media theories of interactivity, my dissertation examines the social, cultural, and technological factors that have contributed to the production of installations that act as affective interfaces between multiple viewers. I argue that contemporary artworks with mirroring properties have triggered a shift towards increasingly public and interpersonal forms of art spectatorship that are consonant with the emergence of new modes of perception and sociability shaped by enhanced surveillance, unavoidable multitasking, and online networking.} } @article{pittir12702, volume = {7}, number = {6}, month = {June}, title = {Genetic ancestry-smoking interactions and lung function in African Americans: A cohort Study}, author = {MC Aldrich and R Kumar and LA Colangelo and LK Williams and S Sen and SB Kritchevsky and B Meibohm and J Galanter and D Hu and CR Gignoux and Y Liu and TB Harris and E Ziv and J Zmuda and M Garcia and TS Leak and MG Foreman and LJ Smith and M Fornage and K Liu and EG Burchard}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12702/}, abstract = {Background: Smoking tobacco reduces lung function. African Americans have both lower lung function and decreased metabolism of tobacco smoke compared to European Americans. African ancestry is also associated with lower pulmonary function in African Americans. We aimed to determine whether African ancestry modifies the association between smoking and lung function and its rate of decline in African Americans. Methodology/Principal Findings: We evaluated a prospective ongoing cohort of 1,281 African Americans participating in the Health, Aging, and Body Composition (Health ABC) Study initiated in 1997. We also examined an ongoing prospective cohort initiated in 1985 of 1,223 African Americans in the Coronary Artery Disease in Young Adults (CARDIA) Study. Pulmonary function and tobacco smoking exposure were measured at baseline and repeatedly over the follow-up period. Individual genetic ancestry proportions were estimated using ancestry informative markers selected to distinguish European and West African ancestry. African Americans with a high proportion of African ancestry had lower baseline forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) per pack-year of smoking (-5.7 ml FEV1/ smoking pack-year) compared with smokers with lower African ancestry (-4.6 ml in FEV1/ smoking pack-year) (interaction P value = 0.17). Longitudinal analyses revealed a suggestive interaction between smoking, and African ancestry on the rate of FEV1 decline in Health ABC and independently replicated in CARDIA. Conclusions/Significance: African American individuals with a high proportion of African ancestry are at greater risk for losing lung function while smoking. {\copyright} 2012 Aldrich et al.} } @unpublished{pittir13172, month = {September}, title = {MODELING OF CONSOLIDATION AND FLOW OF GRANULAR MATERIAL UNDER VARYING CONDITIONS}, author = {Adel F. Alenzi}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Particle Dynamics (PD), Thermal Particle Dynamics (TPD), DEM, Thermoelastic Contact, Granular Media, Thermal Cycling, Solid Fraction, Consolidation, Granular Flow, Shear Cell, Collisional Flow, Normal Forces, Frictional Forces.}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13172/}, abstract = {Granular materials are ubiquitous. They are widely used in many natural and man-made processes such as formation of lunar regolith, dunes and beach sand, as well as processes in pharmaceutical, chemical, and construction industries. Despite their clear industrial relevance, a fundamental understanding of most of the phenomena that involve granular materials in the chemical industry is lacking. Recently, it has been found that cyclic variation of the temperature of a granular bed can cause static particle beds to consolidate (increase their packing fraction) over time due to thermo-mechanical coupling. We employ experimental techniques and numerical simulations, using the thermal particle dynamics method (TPD), to study this phenomenon. In order to simulate many natural phenomena such as lunar regolith formation, one needs to determine a simulation depth of the bed which will yield realistic results yet be manageable computationally. Here we use penetration theory to estimate the required simulation bed height. Lateral periodic boundary conditions are used in our simulations to show that consolidation still occurs during vertical heating even in the absence of confining side walls. Granular flows in which shearing plays a key role are prevalent in natural and industrial applications and understanding their behavior and flow characteristics is of considerable importance. Nevertheless, difficulties in making accurate experimental measurements, complexities involved in doing bulk characterization, and the non-linear nature of interparticle interactions have made development and testing of theoretical models extremely challenging. For this reason, the discrete element method (DEM) is often used as the gold standard for comparison to continuum-level theories of granular material flows. Due to the fact that this modeling approach is derived from first-principle constructs -- like contact mechanics -- its use in lieu of experimentation is reasonably wide-spread and is becoming a staple even in industrial practice. In this work, we explore various aspects of quantitative validation of DEM simulations using detailed measurements of simple, well-characterized flows that allow us to examine the effect of rough surfaces, rotational rates, collisional and frictional force models on granular flow using different devices. Experimentally, we use digital particle tracking velocimetry (DPTV) to obtain velocity, solids fractions, and granular temperature profiles. Computationally, we compare the results obtained using different contact mechanics force laws to those from experimental measurements and perform sensitivity analyses on device and particle geometry as well as material properties employed. In general, the frictional force models range from pragmatic linear techniques to rigorously more complex (nonlinear) contact mechanics inspired routines. Here, we examine both force models to compare with the experimental measurements. In addition, we examine the robustness of these observations to both particle materials properties as well as systemic variables (such as total system solids fraction).} } @article{pittir29968, volume = {16}, number = {1}, month = {January}, author = {Venkata S Aleti and Sachin Yende}, title = {Glucocorticoid therapy for trauma--ready for prime time?}, journal = {Crit Care}, pages = {301 -- ?}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29968/} } @article{pittir29948, volume = {14}, title = {Adult stem cell-based therapy for degenerative joint diseases}, author = {Peter G Alexander and Rocky S Tuan}, year = {2012}, journal = {ARTHRITIS RESEARCH \& THERAPY}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29948/} } @unpublished{pittir16992, month = {December}, title = {REGULATION OF GLUCURONIDATION (UGT1A9) PATHWAY DURING PREGNANCY}, author = {Yahia Alghazwani}, year = {2012}, keywords = {UGT1A9, mycophenolic acid, mycophenolic acid glucuronide, estradiol, progesterone, pregnancy, glucuronidation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16992/}, abstract = {Pregnancy is associated with many physiological changes. During pregnancy, the pharmacokinetics of certain drugs are altered. In particular, the clearance of drugs undergoing glucuronidation has been reported to drastically increase during pregnancy. Pregnancy-mediated changes in the plasma concentrations of estrogens and progesterone have been suggested to influence the expression and activity of certain phase I metabolic enzymes. Limited information, however, is available on the effect of pregnancy-related hormones on the activity of glucuronide-conjugating enzymes in humans. In this study, we determined the optimal conditions for evaluating glucuronidation in human liver microsomal systems. We also determined the effects of progesterone and estradiol on the expression of UGT1A9 mRNA, and the activity UGT1A9 (formation of mycophenolic acid glucuronide (MPAG) from mycophenolic acid (MPA)) using primary cultures of human hepatocytes. The results showed a non-significant increase in the expression of UGT1A9 and in the formation of mycophenolic acid glucuronide from MPA in human hepatocytes treated with a combination of progesterone and estradiol. Progesterone and estradiol do not appear to significantly alter the metabolism of the substrates of UGT1A9. Future studies should evaluate additional factors that may account for the observed alterations in UGT1A9 activity during pregnancy.} } @article{pittir25960, volume = {90}, number = {1}, title = {The Persistence of Proximate Cause}, author = {Jessie Allen}, year = {2012}, pages = {77 -- 129}, journal = {Denver University Law Review}, keywords = {jurisprudence, doctrine, anthropology, torts, negligence, magic, ritual, performance, New, Legal, Realism, judicial, decisionmaking}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/25960/}, abstract = {This Article starts with a puzzle: Why is the doctrinal approach to ?proximate cause? so resilient despite longstanding criticism? Proximate cause is a particularly extreme example of doctrine that limps along despite near universal consensus that it cannot actually determine legal outcomes. Why doesn?t that widely recognized indeterminacy disable proximate cause as a decision-making device? To address this puzzle, I pick up a cue from the legal realists, a group of skeptical lawyers, law professors, and judges, who, in the 1920s and 1930s, com-pared legal doctrine to ritual magic. I take that comparison seriously, perhaps more seriously, and definitely in a different direction, than the realists intended. Classic anthropological studies reveal several telling structural similarities between traditional proximate cause analysis and ritual magic. Moreover, it seems that in diverse cultural contexts, magic not only survives skeptical exposure, it feeds on it. Drawing on the anthropological literature, I propose that exposing doctrinal indeterminacy functions as a kind of ritual unmasking that ultimately increases rather than diminishes the credibility of doctrinal analyses. The Article concludes by considering how unmasking doctrinal indeterminacy works to strengthen faith in doctrine and by raising some questions about the implications for law?s legitimacy. Does unmasking doctrine only further mask judicial power? Or can ritual theory help us see some potential legitimate value in maintaining doctrine as the form of legal decision making, even as we acknowledge doctrine?s inability to determine legal outcomes?} } @unpublished{pittir13418, month = {September}, title = {Barriers and Facilitators to Cervical Cancer Screening in Developing Countries}, author = {Kelsey Allen}, year = {2012}, keywords = {cervical cancer screening, developing countries, barriers, facilitators, cervical cancer, el salvador}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13418/}, abstract = {Background: Every year, approximately 250,000 women die of cervical cancer, a preventable disease. Nearly 90\% of those deaths occur in developing countries. Incidence and mortality rates of cervical cancer in developed countries have decreased approximately 80\% since the Pap smear was incorporated into the public health system and regular screening was recommended. The success of this system has not been experienced in developing countries and as a result, the burden of cervical cancer disproportionately affects women with the fewest resources to treat it. Objectives: The primary aim of this thesis is to conduct a literature review to identify barriers and facilitators to cervical cancer screening in developing countries. Secondly, the researcher is an intern with the nonprofit organization, Basic Health International (BHI). In an effort to improve the low screening rates in El Salvador, one of the countries where BHI works, the researcher proposes a study to identify the barriers and facilitators to cervical cancer screening for women in rural El Salvador. Methods: The researcher used the University of Pittsburgh Health Sciences Library including PubMed, and EBSCO to search for literature on this topic. Relevant articles included those published between 1995 and 2012, addressing barriers and facilitators to cervical cancer screening in developing countries. Results: Twenty-two articles were chosen for review based on the specified exclusion and inclusion criteria. The articles were analyzed using the Social Ecological Model and geographic region. The majority of the literature addressed individual level factors that affect screening behavior of women in developing countries. Conclusions: The literature search revealed that there are multiple levels and channels through which public health professionals can intervene, while the individual level factors paint a picture of who is least likely to be screened. In looking forward, there is a possibility of targeting women for intervention using these profiles. Furthermore, the public health relevance of the literature search is that it emphasizes the role that culture plays on health behaviors, and the importance of identifying the barriers and facilitators to cervical cancer screening in a population. } } @unpublished{pittir13498, month = {September}, title = {THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MUSCULOSKELETAL STRENGTH, PHYSIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS, AND KNEE KINESTHESIA FOLLOWING FATIGUING EXERCISE}, author = {Katelyn Fleishman Allison and Timothy C Sell and John P Abt and Scott M Lephart and Mita T Lovalekar and Elizabeth F Nagle and Kim Crawford}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Proprioception, Kinesthesia, Fatigue, Injury, Exercise Physiology, Sports Medicine}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13498/}, abstract = {Fatiguing exercise may result in impaired functional joint stability and increased risk of unintentional injury. While there are several musculoskeletal and physiological characteristics related to fatigue onset, their relationship with proprioceptive changes following fatigue has not been examined. The purpose of this study was to establish the relationship between musculoskeletal and physiological characteristics and changes in proprioception, measured by threshold to detect passive motion (TTDPM), following fatiguing exercise. Twenty, physically active females participated (age: 28.65 {$\pm$} 5.6 years, height: 165.6 {$\pm$} 4.3 cm, weight: 61.8 {$\pm$} 8.0 kg, BMI: 22.5{$\pm$} 2.3 kg/m2, BF: 23.3 {$\pm$} 5.4\%). During Visit 1, subjects completed an exercise history and 24-hour dietary questionnaire, and body composition, TTDPM familiarization, isokinetic knee strength, and maximal oxygen uptake/lactate threshold assessments. During Visit 2, subjects completed TTDPM and isometric knee strength testing prior to and following a fatiguing exercise protocol. Wilcoxon signed rank tests determined TTDPM and isometric knee strength changes from pre- to post- fatigue. Spearman?s rho correlation coefficients determined the relationship between strength and physiological variables with pre- to post-fatigue changes in TTDPM and with pre-fatigue and post-fatigue TTDPM in extension and flexion ({\ensuremath{\alpha}}=0.05). No significant differences were demonstrated from pre-fatigue to post-fatigue TTDPM despite a significant decrease in isometric knee flexion strength (P{\ensuremath{<}}0.01) and flexion/extension ratio (P{\ensuremath{<}}0.05) following fatigue. No significant correlations were observed between strength or physiological variables and changes in TTDPM from pre- to post-fatigue in extension or flexion. Flexion/extension ratio was significantly correlated with pre-fatigue TTDPM in extension (r=-0.231, P{\ensuremath{<}}0.05). Peak oxygen uptake was significantly correlated with pre-fatigue (r=-0.500, P{\ensuremath{<}}0.01) and post-fatigue (r=-0.520, P{\ensuremath{<}}0.05) TTDPM in extension. No significant relationships were demonstrated between musculoskeletal and physiological characteristics and changes in TTDPM following fatigue. The results suggest that highly trained individuals may have better proprioception, and that the high fitness level of subjects in this investigation may have contributed to absence of TTDPM deficits following fatigue despite reaching a high level of perceptual and physiological fatigue. Future studies should consider various subject populations, other musculoskeletal strength characteristics, and different modalities of proprioception to determine the most important contributions to proprioceptive changes following fatigue.} } @inproceedings{pittir19190, booktitle = {Quality Matters Annual Meeting, 2012}, month = {October}, title = {Information Overload: Strategies for Personal Information Management (PIM) and More Effective Online Teaching ?}, author = {Susan Alman and Barbara Frey and Lorna Kearns and Christinger Tomer}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19190/} } @article{pittir13370, title = {Social and Cognitive Presence as Factors in Learning and Student Retention: An Investigation of the Cohort Model in an iSchool Setting}, author = {Susan Alman and Barbara Frey and Lorna Kearns and Christinger Tomer}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of Education for Library and Information Science}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13370/} } @inproceedings{pittir13375, booktitle = {Annual Meeting of the Asynchronous Learning Network}, title = {Cohort-Based Learning: Initial Findings of a Comparative Assessment}, author = {Susan Alman and Barbara Frey and Christinger Tomer}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13375/} } @unpublished{pittir10889, month = {January}, title = {Hydrodynamic gene transfer of alpha-galactosidase (GLA) in the GLA knockout mouse partially reverses biochemical deficits}, author = {Ali Alshabi and Regis R. Vollmer and Michael Passineau and Maggie Folan}, year = {2012}, keywords = {alpha-galactosidase A (GLA). glycosphingolipid. globotriaosylceramide (Gb3). }, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10889/}, abstract = {In humans, deficiency of the GLA enzyme is an inheritable, X-linked recessive disorder (Fabry disease) that results in accumulation of glycosphingolipid globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) within blood vessels, various tissues, and organs leading to severe pain, renal failure, cardiovascular disease and resultant premature mortality. Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) is the only approved pharmacological treatment and is prohibitively expensive. Gene therapy may be a viable alternative to ERT. This study investigates the use of hydrodynamic gene delivery (HGD) of the GLA gene to GLA knockout mice, the Fabry disease animal model. The objective of this study is to evaluate the safety, efficacy and therapeutic outcome of administering GLA-containing plasmids via HGD to GLA knockout mice. The human GLA gene cDNA sequence was successfully inserted into the pAAV-MCS vector at the EcoR1 and Xho1 cloning sites resulting in pAAV-GLA plasmids and into the pLIVE vector at BamH1 and Xho1 sites resulting in pLIVE-GLA. It was determined that an 8\% (of body weight) injection volume significantly increased GLA activity when compared to 6\% (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.05) and injection volumes greater than 8\% resulted in mortality. DNA doses of 5 to 15 ?g/ml produced higher serum levels of GLA in the GLA knockout mice when compared to wild-type (WT) mice. The DNA dose used in this study was 15 ?g/ml with an injection volume of 8\%. Results show that pAAV-GLA generated greater activity (7600 \%) in serum when compared to pLIVE-GLA (2500 \%). With the pAAV-GLA plasmid, serum activity was maintained for two days. However, for pLIVE-GLA, at 18 days post-injection, GLA activity in liver and heart tissues in GLA knockout mice was significantly (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.05) increased when compared to WT. These levels were sustained for up to 66 days after the treatment when 3 treatments were administered, each 2 weeks apart. These data demonstrate that HGD of pLIVE-GLA safely and effectively corrected GLA deficiency in GLA knockout mice. Future studies should address Gb3 accumulation relative to GLA expression using the same model.} } @unpublished{pittir12460, month = {July}, title = {THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN OBESITY AND PERIODONTAL DISEASE}, author = {Ahmad Alshareef}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Obesity, Inflammation, Periodontal disease, BMI}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12460/}, abstract = {The American Journal of Public Health (2004) editorializes obesity as ?the public health challenge of our time.? Obesity creates risk for chronic health problems, is associated with increased mortality and exists in complexes of multiple, clustered behavioral risk factors. Fine (2004) identifies obesity among the four most common risk factors of chronic disease [cigarette smoking, risky drinking of alcohol, physical inactivity, overweight]. That set of risk factors applied to the 2001 National Health Interview Survey showed 17 percent (among 29,000) possessed three or more. Obesity with raised cholesterol and hypertension is the major cause of mortality and disease in Europe (James 2004) and is an issue for developing countries as well (Caballero 2001). Adipocytes in the adipose (fatty) tissues of obese people produce quantities of active molecules like leptin, important in regulating energy expenditure (thus body weight). Adipocyte-derived active molecules (adipocytokines) are candidates for the close association between obesity and multiple risk factor syndromes. Similarly periodontal disease is one of the world?s most common chronic diseases [possibly 35 percent of U.S. adults ages 30-40]. Increasing evidence establishes periodontal disease as a significant risk factor in the etiology of diseases with inflammatory components. [Severe periodontal disease is the well-established sixth complication of diabetes (L{\Ho}e 1993) and the relationship may be two-way (Grossi THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN OBESITY AND PERIODONTAL DISEASE Ahmad Alshareef D.M.D. University of Pittsburgh, 2012 v 1998).] Obesity is a systemic disease predisposing to co-morbidities and complications that affect overall health; cross-sectional research suggests obesity is associated with periodontal diseases by underlying biologic mechanisms yet to be established. Linking evidence in the pathophysiology of both points toward inflammatory processes: The proinflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) is produced by adipocytes and the concentration of TNF-alpha is elevated in the obese, declining with weight loss. TNF-alpha suppresses insulin action via its specific receptor. Hence TNF-alpha exacerbates insulin resistance. The purpose of this research is to determine if subjects with obesity have a higher chance of developing periodontal disease, using statistical analyses of a retrospective review of the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine electronic health record [EHR].} } @unpublished{pittir11905, month = {June}, title = {Determination of Bacterial Chemotaxis Response Functions by Optical Trapping}, author = {Tuba Altindal}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Bacterial chemotaxis, Vibrio alginolyticus, optical tweezers, chemotactic response function }, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11905/}, abstract = {A two-lobe response function is considered as a manifestation of temporal signal comparison in bacterial chemosensing. The second lobe in the response function appears as a result of adaptive behavior of the underlying signaling network, which allows bacteria to stay sensitive over a wide range of background signal levels. It has been argued that this two-lobe response reflects the dual requirements of the bacteria to taxis along a chemical gradient and to localize once the top of the gradient is reached. Calculations based on the run-tumble motility pattern of Escherichia coli showed that the second lobe improved the bacterium's localization capability. Intrigued by a recently observed run-reverse-flick motility cycle of a marine bacterium Vibrio alginolyticus, we investigate the motility-response relationship in this bacterium. Using a novel optical trapping technique, we measure the response of V. alginolyticus to an impulsive stimulus of chemoattractant serine. By exploiting an asymmetry in the rotation of the polar flagellum, we are able to determine for the first time how the bacterium responds to chemical stimuli while swimming forward or backward. Our measurements suggest that this marine bacterium regulates its forward and backward swimming intervals differently, exhibiting behaviors that is consistent with an exploration-exploitation strategy. In our measurements, we also find that the cell-body ?(t) and the flagellar {\ensuremath{\omega}}(t) rotational angular frequencies oscillate in time and are in synchrony with the forward and backward swimming intervals. Unexpectedly, ?(t) and {\ensuremath{\omega}}(t) are found to be anticorrelated in that the cell body rotates slower in the forward direction than in the backward direction, ?f{\ensuremath{<}}?b, but the flagellum rotates faster in the forward direction than in the backward direction. The change in the rotational load ({\texttt{\char126}}25\%) is significantly greater than that predicted by flagellum deformation but can be accounted for by the precession of the flagellum about the body axis during the backward swimming interval. We postulate that as a result of the precession, a kink is generated at the base of the flagellum that is subsequently amplified when the flagellum motor reverses direction, leading to the flick, the direction randomization step in V. alginolyticus' motility pattern. } } @article{pittir22951, volume = {23}, number = {11}, month = {January}, author = {EM Altmann and CD Schunn}, title = {Decay Versus Interference: A New Look at an Old Interaction}, journal = {Psychological Science}, pages = {1435 -- 1437}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22951/} } @unpublished{pittir13327, month = {September}, title = {THE EFFECT OF NEUROMUSCULAR ELECTRICAL STIMULATION (NMES) IN INDUCING MUSCLE HYPERTROPHY AND IMPROVEMENT IN MUSCLE TORQUE WITHN THE QUADRICEPS MUSCLE OF ELDERLY PEOPLE}, author = {Ibrahim Altubasi}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Aging type II muscle fibers Quadriceps muscle CSA NMES Electrical stimulation power}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13327/}, abstract = {Aging is associated with structural changes in skeletal muscles. One such change is loss of muscle mass. Muscle fiber atrophy is another structural transformation. Muscle fiber atrophy is selective to type II muscle fibers. The reduced mass of aging muscles has functional consequences like reduced performance of daily activities. Although exercise can be used to hypertrophy type II muscle fibers, it requires high intensity training that may not be feasible for elderly people. Due to the ability of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) to activate type II muscle fiber at relatively low intensity compared to voluntary exercises, NMES might be an alternative method to train type II muscle fibers in the elderly population. The purpose is to test the effectiveness of NMES compared to exercise that is performed at the same intensity in inducing structural changes in quadriceps muscle of elderly subjects. The aims are to 1) compare changes in muscle hypertrophy, 2) compare changes in quadriceps muscle power output, and 3) Compare changes in the performance-based functional power tests in subjects who receive NMES and those who receive isometric strengthening exercise at the same intensity level. Twenty subjects (71.2 +/- 4.41) were randomized to receive NMES or exercise. Computed tomography (CT), and muscle biopsy were performed to assess changes in cross sectional area (CSA) and fiber types of the quadriceps. Isokinetic quadriceps muscle power and performance based functional power were measured to assess changes in quadriceps strength and performance based physical function. The patterns of change from pre to post training on total quadriceps CSA, lean quadriceps CSA, and type IIA CSA were significantly higher for the NMES group. There was no difference between the groups in isokinetic quadriceps muscle power. The change in ramp power test from pre to post training was significantly higher for the NMES group. NMES might be an alternative to exercises in inducing type II fiber hypertrophy in older adults. NMES training induced improvements in performance based functional power tests compared to voluntary isometric exercise. There were no differences between the groups in the change in isokinetic quadriceps muscle power test scores. } } @unpublished{pittir12014, month = {June}, title = {Application of Advanced Statistical Methods in an Aging Dataset}, author = {Karina Alvarez}, year = {2012}, keywords = {GEMS, Ginkgo biloba, ADL, IADL, 3MSE, biomarkers, Alzheimer's, dementia, pneumonia, trajectory analysis, Gray's model, flexible cox model, spline analysis}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12014/}, abstract = {The focus of this thesis was to explore the application of advanced statistical methods in the Ginkgo Evaluation of Memory (GEM) Study. GEMS enrolled 3,069 participants age 75 or older with normal cognition or mild cognitive impairment. Those with dementia were excluded from participation. After extensive medical and neuropsychological screening, participants were randomly assigned to receive twice-daily doses of either 120 milligrams of ginkgo extract or an identical-appearing placebo. The 240 milligrams daily dose of ginkgo was selected based on current dosage recommendations and prior clinical studies indicating possible effectiveness at this dosage. The products used in the study were supplied by Schwabe Pharmaceuticals, a German company. We focused on two methods, a flexible Cox model (Gray?s model) and a trajectory procedure based on a mixture model that is implemented in the SAS procedure PROC TRAJ. The spline-based extension of the Cox model was applied to biomarker data; specifically: Cystatin-C, Beta Amyloid 40, Beta Amyloid 42, and a ratio of Beta Amyloid 42 over Beta Amyloid 40. We wanted to determine if the estimate of the log-hazard ratio changed over time for each of the biological measures. The trajectory analysis was used to determine if a patient?s illness trajectory continued on the same path towards demented or non-demented before experiencing a pneumonia event. The trajectory analysis was applied to the longitudinal trajectories of activities of daily living (ADL), independent activities of daily living (IADL) and modified mini-mental status exam (3MSE). The Cox Spline analysis resulted in no statistically significant information added to the models using the spline analysis. Trajectory analysis concluded that patients on a downward trajectory at baseline only escalated before the pneumonia event. As the average life expectancy continues in increase in humans, it is important to evaluate statistical methods in the elderly population to identify subpopulations that need more medical attention than the population at large. Thus, the public health significance of this thesis is that by identifying these subgroups that are distinctly different from the overall population, we can provide preventative care where needed more efficiently.} } @inproceedings{pittir13374, booktitle = {Annual Meeting of the Association for Library and Information Science Education}, title = {Building a Virtual Computing Laboratory (VCL) for Online Education in LIS.}, author = {Susan Aman and Christinger Tomer}, publisher = {Association for Library and Information Science Education}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13374/}, abstract = {Presenttaion at the Annual Meeting of the Association for Library and Information Science Education, Dallas, January 2012.} } @article{pittir18966, volume = {30}, number = {3}, month = {August}, author = {K Ambrozic and D wu and D he and X xu}, title = {A study of relevance feedback techniques in interactive multilingual information access}, journal = {Library Hi Tech}, pages = {523 -- 544}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18966/}, abstract = {With the vast amount of multilingual information available online, it becomes increasingly critical for libraries to use various multilingual information access techniques in order to effectively support patrons' online information requests. However, this is still a relatively under-explored area. This paper aims to study the effectiveness and the adoptability of query expansion and translation enhancement in the context of interactive multilingual information access. Relying on an interactive multilingual information access system called ICE-TEA, the authors conducted a controlled experiment (English-to-Chinese translation) involving human subjects to assess the retrieval effectiveness, analyzed the collected search logs to examine users' behavior, and employed pre- and post-questionnaires to obtain users' opinions about the system. The results confirm that significant improvement in retrieval effectiveness can be achieved by combining query expansion with translation enhancement (as compared to a case when there is no relevance feedback). However, users' ability to understand, interact with and even perceive the complex process of searches involving the combination of query expansion and translation enhancement may greatly impact the effectiveness of the techniques. The results also confirm that human-generated queries were short queries, which calls for careful consideration of how longer queries perform in real search because many search engines rely on longer and more complex queries. This study examines two important relevance feedback techniques in the context of human-involved multilingual information access. This study is a valuable addition to the information seeking behaviour literature. {\copyright} 2012, Emerald Group Publishing Limited} } @inproceedings{pittir19019, booktitle = {AAAI Fall Symposium on Human Control of Bio-Inspired Swarms}, month = {November}, title = {Input Efficiency for Influencing Swarm}, author = {Saman Amirpour Amraii and Nilanjan Chakraborty and Michael Lewis}, publisher = {American Society for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence}, year = {2012}, journal = {AAAI Fall Symposium on Human Control of Bio-Inspired Swarms}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19019/}, abstract = {Many cooperative control problems ranging from formation following, to rendezvous to flocking can be expressed as consensus problems. The ability of an operator to influence the development of consensus within a swarm therefore provides a basic test of the quality of human-swarm interaction (HSI). Two plausible approaches are : Direct- dictate a desired value to swarm members or Indirect- control or influence one or more swarm members relying on existing control laws to propagate that influence. Both approaches have been followed by HSI researchers. The Indirect case uses standard consensus methods where the operator exerts influence over a few robots and then the swarm reaches a consensus based on its intrinsic rules. The Direct method corresponds to flooding in which the operator directly sends the intention to a subset of the swarm and the command then propagates through the remainder of the swarm as a privileged message. In this paper we compare these two methods regarding their convergence time and properties in noisy and noiseless conditions with static and dynamic graphs. We have found that average consensus method (indirect control) converges much slower than flooding (direct) method but it has more noise tolerance in comparison with simple flooding algorithms. Also, we have found that the convergence time of the consensus method behaves erratically when the graph?s connectivity (Fiedler value) is high.} } @article{pittir15570, volume = {7}, number = {5}, month = {May}, title = {UBR2 of the N-end rule pathway is required for chromosome stability via histone ubiquitylation in spermatocytes and somatic cells}, author = {JY An and E Kim and A Zakrzewska and YD Yoo and JM Jang and DH Han and MJ Lee and JW Seo and YJ Lee and TY Kim and DG de Rooij and BY Kim and YT Kwon}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15570/}, abstract = {The N-end rule pathway is a proteolytic system in which its recognition components (N-recognins) recognize destabilizing N-terminal residues of short-lived proteins as an essential element of specific degrons, called N-degrons. The RING E3 ligases UBR2 and UBR1 are major N-recognins that share size (200 kDa), conserved domains and substrate specificities to N-degrons. Despite the known function of the N-end rule pathway in degradation of cytosolic proteins, the major phenotype of UBR2-deficient male mice is infertility caused by arrest of spermatocytes at meiotic prophase I. UBR2-deficient spermatocytes are impaired in transcriptional silencing of sex chromosome-linked genes and ubiquitylation of histone H2A. In this study we show that the recruitment of UBR2 to meiotic chromosomes spatiotemporally correlates to the induction of chromatin-associated ubiquitylation, which is significantly impaired in UBR2-deficient spermatocytes. UBR2 functions as a scaffold E3 that promotes HR6B/UbcH2-dependent ubiquitylation of H2A and H2B but not H3 and H4, through a mechanism distinct from typical polyubiquitylation. The E3 activity of UBR2 in histone ubiquitylation is allosterically activated by dipeptides bearing destabilizing N-terminal residues. Insufficient monoubiquitylation and polyubiquitylation on UBR2-deficient meiotic chromosomes correlate to defects in double strand break (DSB) repair and other meiotic processes, resulting in pachytene arrest at stage IV and apoptosis. Some of these functions of UBR2 are observed in somatic cells, in which UBR2 is a chromatin-binding protein involved in chromatin-associated ubiquitylation upon DNA damage. UBR2-deficient somatic cells show an array of chromosomal abnormalities, including hyperproliferation, chromosome instability, and hypersensitivity to DNA damage-inducing reagents. UBR2-deficient mice enriched in C57 background die upon birth with defects in lung expansion and neural development. Thus, UBR2, known as the recognition component of a major cellular proteolytic system, is associated with chromatin and controls chromatin dynamics and gene expression in both germ cells and somatic cells. {\copyright} 2012 Kwon et al.} } @article{pittir29939, volume = {2}, month = {March}, title = {Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Clostridium difficille interactomes: demonstration of rapid development of computational system for bacterial interactome prediction.}, author = {Seshan Ananthasubramanian and Rahul Metri and Ankur Khetan and Aman Gupta and Adam Handen and Nagasuma Chandra and Madhavi Ganapathiraju}, year = {2012}, pages = {4 -- ?}, journal = {Microb Inform Exp}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29939/}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks (interactomes) of most organisms, except for some model organisms, are largely unknown. Experimental methods including high-throughput techniques are highly resource intensive. Therefore, computational discovery of PPIs can accelerate biological discovery by presenting "most-promising" pairs of proteins that are likely to interact. For many bacteria, genome sequence, and thereby genomic context of proteomes, is readily available; additionally, for some of these proteomes, localization and functional annotations are also available, but interactomes are not available. We present here a method for rapid development of computational system to predict interactome of bacterial proteomes. While other studies have presented methods to transfer interologs across species, here, we propose transfer of computational models to benefit from cross-species annotations, thereby predicting many more novel interactions even in the absence of interologs. Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) and Clostridium difficile (CD) have been used to demonstrate the work. RESULTS: We developed a random forest classifier over features derived from Gene Ontology annotations and genetic context scores provided by STRING database for predicting Mtb and CD interactions independently. The Mtb classifier gave a precision of 94\% and a recall of 23\% on a held out test set. The Mtb model was then run on all the 8 million protein pairs of the Mtb proteome, resulting in 708 new interactions (at 94\% expected precision) or 1,595 new interactions at 80\% expected precision. The CD classifier gave a precision of 90\% and a recall of 16\% on a held out test set. The CD model was run on all the 8 million protein pairs of the CD proteome, resulting in 143 new interactions (at 90\% expected precision) or 580 new interactions (at 80\% expected precision). We also compared the overlap of predictions of our method with STRING database interactions for CD and Mtb and also with interactions identified recently by a bacterial 2-hybrid system for Mtb. To demonstrate the utility of transfer of computational models, we made use of the developed Mtb model and used it to predict CD protein-pairs. The cross species model thus developed yielded a precision of 88\% at a recall of 8\%. To demonstrate transfer of features from other organisms in the absence of feature-based and interaction-based information, we transferred missing feature values from Mtb orthologs into the CD data. In transferring this data from orthologs (not interologs), we showed that a large number of interactions can be predicted. CONCLUSIONS: Rapid discovery of (partial) bacterial interactome can be made by using existing set of GO and STRING features associated with the organisms. We can make use of cross-species interactome development, when there are not even sufficient known interactions to develop a computational prediction system. Computational model of well-studied organism(s) can be employed to make the initial interactome prediction for the target organism. We have also demonstrated successfully, that annotations can be transferred from orthologs in well-studied organisms enabling accurate predictions for organisms with no annotations. These approaches can serve as building blocks to address the challenges associated with feature coverage, missing interactions towards rapid interactome discovery for bacterial organisms. AVAILABILITY: The predictions for all Mtb and CD proteins are made available at: http://severus.dbmi.pitt.edu/TB and http://severus.dbmi.pitt.edu/CD respectively for browsing as well as for download.} } @article{pittir17652, volume = {4}, number = {2}, title = {Tele-AAC Resolution.}, author = {Kate Anderson and Michelle K Boisvert and Janis Doneski-Nicol and Michelle L Gutmann and Nerissa C Hall and Cynthia Morelock and Richard Steele and Ellen R Cohn}, year = {2012}, pages = {79 -- 82}, journal = {Int J Telerehabil}, keywords = {Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), Tele-AAC, telepractice}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17652/}, abstract = {Approximately 1.3\% of all people, or about 4 million Americans, cannot rely on their natural speech to meet their daily communication needs. Telepractice offers a potentially cost-effective service delivery mechanism to provide clinical AAC services at a distance to the benefit of underserved populations in the United States and worldwide. Tele-AAC is a unique cross-disciplinary clinical service delivery model that requires expertise in both telepractice and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems. The Tele-AAC Working Group of the 2012 ISAAC Research Symposium therefore drafted a resolution underscoring the importance of identifying and characterizing the unique opportunities and constraints of Tele-AAC in all aspects of service delivery. These include, but are not limited to: needs assessments; implementation planning; device/system procurement, set-up and training; quality assurance, client progress monitoring, and follow-up service delivery. Tele-AAC, like other telepractice applications, requires adherence to the ASHA Code of Ethics and other policy documents, and state, federal, and international laws, as well as a competent technological infrastructure. The Working Group recommends that institutions of higher education and professional organizations provide training in Tele-AAC service provision. In addition, research and development are needed to create validity measures across Tele-AAC practices (i.e., assessment, implementation, and consultation); determine the communication competence levels achieved by Tele-AAC users; discern stakeholders' perceptions of Tele-AAC services (e.g., acceptability and viability); maximize Tele-AAC's capacity to engage multiple team members in AAC assessment and ongoing service; identify the limitations and barriers of Tele-AAC provision; and develop potential solutions.} } @misc{pittir33775, month = {November}, title = {Introduction to Documentary in 1930s Britain: Films of the E.M.B. and the G.P.O.}, author = {Mark Lynn Anderson}, address = {Rochester, NY}, publisher = {Rochester Labor Film Series}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/33775/}, abstract = {Introduction delivered for screenings of the documentary motion-pictures Drifters (1929), Industrial Britain (1933), Housing Problems (1935), Night Mail (1936), and Spare Time (1939) at the Dryden Theatre, George Eastman Museum, Rochester, NY, on November 12, 1999, as part of the annual Rochester Labor Film Series.} } @misc{pittir33772, month = {November}, title = {Introduction to Modern Times (1936).}, author = {Mark Lynn Anderson}, address = {Rochester, NY}, publisher = {Rochester Labor Film Series}, year = {2012}, note = {The Rochester Labor Film Series is a joint effort of the Rochester Labor Council and the George Eastman Museum.}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/33772/}, abstract = {Introduction delivered for screening of the motion picture Modern Times (1936) at the Dryden Theatre, George Eastman Museum, Rochester, NY, on November 3, 2000, as part of the annual Rochester Labor Film Series.} } @misc{pittir33777, month = {November}, title = {Introduction to {\`A} Nous la libert{\'e} (1931).}, author = {Mark Lynn Anderson}, address = {Rochester, NY}, publisher = {Rochester Labor Film Series}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/33777/}, abstract = {Introduction delivered for screening of the motion picture {\`A} Nous la libert{\'e} (1931) at the Dryden Theatre, George Eastman Museum, Rochester, NY, on November 5, 1999, as part of the annual Rochester Labor Film Series.} } @inproceedings{pittir12492, booktitle = {iConference: Culture Design Society}, month = {February}, title = {Cultivating Creative Information Practices: Supporting the Ying and Yang of the Research Process}, author = {Theresa Anderson and Leanne Bowler and Lisa Nathan and Eileen Trauth}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12492/}, abstract = {Description: A heightened research focus on creativity is coming from many quarters. In response, this event calls attention to the very activity through which scholars are exploring creativity -- the research process. In particular, we focus on the accepted information practices that are supposed to support our research. Are these standardized practices scaffolding truly creative inquiry that enables researchers to put their imagination to work? This interactive session provides an opportunity for participants to uncover the challenges and opportunities that emerge as one attempts to develop and sustain creative information practice, particularly in the increasingly regimented environment of academia. We wish to generate conversations and share reflections about how we can create, nurture and sustain sites of creativity proactively through research-related information practices. In light of growing interest in a more humanist emphasis to information research, the discussion explores the intersection between critical and creative capacities as a way to better enable contemplative scholarship.} } @unpublished{pittir13329, month = {August}, title = {Reading the Other and Reading Ourselves: An Interpretive Study of Amazon.com Reviews on Bestsellers about Muslims}, author = {Alicia Angemeer}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Postcolonial Theory Reader Response Theory Edward Said Orientalism }, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13329/}, abstract = {Since September 11, 2001, Western readers have been turning to bestselling texts written by or about Muslims in their need to learn more about Muslims. These texts promise an insider?s view of predominantly Muslim countries and peoples and are informally influencing and educating many Western readers in their perceptions of Muslims because they are so widely read and discussed. In this study, I explore how Westerners are reading and interpreting the Muslim Other as portrayed in these bestsellers and how they are often unaware of the Orientalist lens through which they read and interpret the Other. I also consider how Westerners may read these texts more critically and responsibly. I perform a conceptual analysis of how Western readers read and interpret the Muslim Other, as expressed through the ?texts? of their Amazon.com reviews of bestsellers Reading Lolita in Tehran, The Kite Runner, and Three Cups of Tea. Using Edward Said?s (1978, 1993) postcolonial theoretical concept of Orientalism and employing postcolonial theorists who expand on Said?s concept to craft my theoretical frame though which I analyze these texts, I illuminate the texts? problematics associated with representations of identity and otherness to show how their reading responses perpetuate negative, colonizing stereotypes of Muslims. I then bring in a second theoretical frame, reader response theory, to reinterpret my first analysis of their reading responses within the context of pedagogical challenges of teaching students to read the Other. In crafting this second theoretical frame I provide an added perspective of a poststructural consideration of the relationship between Self and Other and utilize the work of such theorists as Boler (1994), Burwell, Davis, and Taylor (2008), Felman and Laub (1992), Grobman (2007), Taylor (2007a, 2007b), Todd (2003), and Welch (2000), whose challenges to reveal contextualized reading practices and present more responsible approaches to reading are developed from cross-disciplinary discussions of reading the Other. I also explore the pedagogical implications of reading the Other, challenging the way in which reading the Other is currently approached in teaching multicultural literature in the elementary and secondary classroom. } } @article{pittir29961, volume = {16}, number = {1}, month = {February}, title = {Drotrecogin alfa (activated) ... a sad final fizzle to a roller-coaster party}, author = {DC Angus}, year = {2012}, journal = {Critical Care}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29961/}, abstract = {Following the failure of PROWESS-SHOCK to demonstrate efficacy, Eli Lilly and Company withdrew drotrecogin alfa (activated) from the worldwide market. Drotrecogin was initially approved after the original trial, PROWESS, was stopped early for overwhelming efficacy. These events prompt consideration of both the initial approval decision and the later decision to withdraw. It is regrettable that the initial decision was made largely on a single trial that was stopped early. However, the decision to approve was within the bounds of normal regulatory practice and was made by many approval bodies around the world. Furthermore, the overall withdrawal rate of approved drugs remains very low. The decision to withdraw was a voluntary decision by Eli Lilly and Company and likely reflected key business considerations. Drotrecogin does have important biologic effects, and it is probable that we do not know how best to select patients who would benefit. Overall, there may still be a small advantage to drotrecogin alfa, even used non-selectively, but the costs of determining such an effect with adequate certainty are likely prohibitive, and the point is now moot. In the future, we should consider ways to make clinical trials easier and quicker so that more information can be available in a timely manner when considering regulatory approval. At the same time, more sophisticated selection of patients seems key if we are to most wisely test agents designed to manipulate the septic host response. {\copyright} 2012 BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir11616, month = {June}, title = {Filtered Density Function for Large Eddy Simulation of Turbulent Reacting Flows on Unstructured Meshes}, author = {Naseem Ansari}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Large eddy simulation, filtered density function, turbulence, reacting flows.}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11616/}, abstract = {A new computational filtered density function (FDF) methodology is developed for large eddy simulation (LES) of turbulent reacting flows on an unstructured mesh. The effect of chemical reactions in the transport equation of FDF appears in a closed form, whereas the effects of scalar mixing and convection within the subgrid are modeled. The FDF transport equation is solved numerically by a particle based Lagrangian Monte Carlo (MC) method. The base filtered transport equations on the unstructured mesh are solved by a finite-volume (FV) method. The consistency of the hybrid FV-MC solver and the realizability of the simulated results are demonstrated via LES of a temporally developing mixing layer. The overall performance of the model is appraised by comparison with direct numerical simulation (DNS) data. Subsequently, the unstructured FDF simulator is employed for predictions of two swirl stabilized non-premixed flames. These are low-swirl (SM1) and high-swirl (SMA2) methane flames. The simulated results are assessed via comparison with experimental data and show excellent agreements. Finally, the unstructured FDF solver is extended to conduct LES of a realistic swirl flame combustor. This is the PRECCINSTA experimental burner from the German Aerospace Center (DLR). The simulated data are analyzed by comparison of the Reynolds-averaged statistics with experimental data and show excellent agreements.} } @article{pittir14139, volume = {7}, number = {2}, month = {February}, title = {Critical role of p53 upregulated modulator of apoptosis in benzyl isothiocyanate-induced apoptotic cell death}, author = {ML Antony and SH Kim and SV Singh}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14139/}, abstract = {Benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC), a constituent of edible cruciferous vegetables, decreases viability of cancer cells by causing apoptosis but the mechanism of cell death is not fully understood. The present study was undertaken to determine the role of Bcl-2 family proteins in BITC-induced apoptosis using MDA-MB-231 (breast), MCF-7 (breast), and HCT-116 (colon) human cancer cells. The B-cell lymphoma 2 interacting mediator of cell death (Bim) protein was dispensable for proapoptotic response to BITC in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells as judged by RNA interference studies. Instead, the BITC-treated MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells exhibited upregulation of p53 upregulated modulator of apoptosis (PUMA) protein. The BITC-mediated induction of PUMA was relatively more pronounced in MCF-7 cells due to the presence of wild-type p53 compared with MDA-MB-231 with mutant p53. The BITC-induced apoptosis was partially but significantly attenuated by RNA interference of PUMA in MCF-7 cells. The PUMA knockout variant of HCT-116 cells exhibited significant resistance towards BITC-induced apoptosis compared with wild-type HCT-116 cells. Attenuation of BITC-induced apoptosis in PUMA knockout HCT-116 cells was accompanied by enhanced G2/M phase cell cycle arrest due to induction of p21 and down regulation of cyclin-dependent kinase 1 protein. The BITC treatment caused a decrease in protein levels of Bcl-xL (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells) and Bcl-2 (MCF-7 cells). Ectopic expression of Bcl-xL in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells and that of Bcl-2 in MCF-7 cells conferred protection against proapoptotic response to BITC. Interestingly, the BITC-treated MDA-MB-231 cells exhibited induction of Bcl-2 protein expression, and RNA interference of Bcl-2 in this cell line resulted in augmentation of BITC-induced apoptosis. The BITC-mediated inhibition of MDA-MB-231 xenograft growth in vivo was associated with the induction of PUMA protein in the tumor. In conclusion, the results of the present study indicate that Bim-independent apoptosis by BITC in cancer cells is mediated by PUMA. {\copyright} 2012 Antony et al.} } @article{pittir17675, volume = {8}, number = {2}, month = {April}, author = {Jonathan C. Anzur}, title = {Plan to Restore the Vote: Ron Paul and the Third-Party Voting Dilemma}, journal = {Pitt Political Review}, pages = {39 -- 46}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17675/} } @article{pittir22945, volume = {21}, number = {1}, month = {February}, author = {XS Apedoe and MR Ellefson and CD Schunn}, title = {Learning Together While Designing: Does Group Size Make a Difference?}, journal = {Journal of Science Education and Technology}, pages = {83 -- 94}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22945/}, abstract = {As the use of project-based learning becomes more frequent in the K-12 science classroom, and in chemistry classrooms in particular, teachers have begun to identify practical questions about implementation that should be addressed empirically. One such question concerns whether there is an ideal group size that fosters individual student achievement. The current project was designed to assess how group size might impact student chemistry content learning in a project-based learning environment, and how well students are prepared to transfer this new knowledge to other relevant areas. The results indicated that particular conditions (e. g. advanced classrooms) interact with group size (a seemingly superficial feature) to differentially influence the depth and level of student learning related to the unit and student's ability to transfer his/her knowledge outside of the context of a project-based learning unit. {\copyright} 2011 Springer Science+Business Media, LLC.} } @article{pittir15897, volume = {8}, number = {8}, month = {August}, title = {Nonhuman Primate Models for HIV Cure Research}, author = {C Apetrei and I Pandrea and JW Mellors}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS Pathogens}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15897/} } @unpublished{pittir6209, month = {January}, title = {Optional agreement and grammatical functions: a corpus study of dative clitic doubling in Spanish}, author = {Roberto Aranovich}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Spanish, dative, agreement, case, word order, corpus linguistics}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/6209/}, abstract = {Spanish ditransitive constructions are characterized by the optionality of dative clitic doubling (DCLD), the co- occurrence of an unstressed dative pronoun with a co-referential indirect object (IO). This fact has not received a satisfactory account in the literature, which has largely overlooked the optionality of the phenomenon or tried to reduce it to syntactic or lexical considerations (Strozer, 1976; Demonte, 1995). Our goal is to describe and explain the distribution of Dative Clitic Doubling in ditransitive sentences, as well as to study the implications of this phenomenon to the overall grammar of Spanish, in particular its interaction with word order. We argue that the optionality of DCLD is an instance of optional object agreement, a widespread phenomenon in the languages of the world (Comrie, 1989; Woolford, 1999), which is favored by the pragmatic salience of the IO (high degree of animacy and givenness). We also argue that the distribution of DCLD is independent of word order, a claim that follows from the fact that Spanish encodes grammatical functions through agreement rather than word order. We support our claims with the results of a quantitative study of ditransitive sentences. The study of Spanish ditransitive constructions is complemented by a quantitative study of another dative construction in Spanish, the possessive construction. The conclusion of this comparison is that dative case is favored by pragmatic prominence across different construction types. From a cross-linguistic perspective, the dissertation compares Spanish DCLD and English dative-shift, two constructions that have been considered analogous in the literature (Demonte, 1995). In this respect, our conclusion is that the two constructions are essentially different as a result of an important typological difference between Spanish and English: Spanish is a Direct/Indirect Object language and English is a Primary/Secondary Object language (Dryer, 1986; Ra{\'u}l Aranovich, 2007). } } @article{pittir24248, volume = {97}, number = {6}, month = {June}, author = {A Arasu and PM Cawthon and LY Lui and TP Do and PS Arora and JA Cauley and KE Ensrud and SR Cummings}, title = {Serum sclerostin and risk of hip fracture in older caucasian women}, journal = {Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism}, pages = {2027 -- 2032}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/24248/}, abstract = {Context: Sclerostin, a protein secreted by osteocytes, inhibits bone formation. Individuals with genetic mutations that decrease the availability of sclerostin have very high bone mass. Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the hypothesis that elevated serum sclerostin levels are associated with increased risk of hip fracture in older women. Design, Setting, and Participants: This was a case-cohort study of a prospective, community-based cohort of 9704 women aged 65 yr or older. Sclerostin levels were measured in serum collected in 1989-1990 in 228 women with incident hip fractures and 227 women in a randomly selected sample; average follow-up time was 9.8 yr. Results: Serum sclerostin levels were correlated with total hip bone mineral density (BMD; r=0.27, P{\ensuremath{<}}0.001). The risk of hip fracture increased across quartiles of serum sclerostin (test for trend, P{\ensuremath{<}} 0.001) and was significantly elevated among those in the fourth quartile (hazard risk 3.4, 95\% confidence interval 1.7-7.0) compared with women in the lowest quartile, after adjusting for age, body mass index, estrogen use, history of fracture since age 50 yr, and total hip BMD. When dividing the cohort into eight groups by sclerostin quartile and median hip BMD, women with lower total hip BMD in the highest sclerostin quartile had a 22.3-fold (95\% confidence interval 5.8-86.3) increased risk of fracture compared with women with higher total hip BMD in the lowest sclerostin quartile. Conclusions: We conclude that higher serum sclerostin levels are associated with a greater risk of hip fractures in older women. In addition, the risk of hip fracture is amplified when high sclerostin levels are combined with lower BMD. Copyright {\copyright} 2012 by The Endocrine Society.} } @unpublished{pittir10952, month = {January}, title = {THE IMPACT OF MOBILE PHONES ON HOUSEHOLD WELFARE IN INDONESIA: EVIDENCE AND IMPLICATIONS}, author = {Zaenal Arifin}, year = {2012}, keywords = {ICT, Mobile Phone, Household Welfare, Poverty, Indonesia}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10952/}, abstract = {This study seeks to answer to what extent information and communication technology (ICT) can increase household welfare. It is focused on ICT in the form of telecommunication technologies, i.e., mobile phones. Using two different mobile phone variables and three different household welfare measures from Indonesian national survey data, all regressions confirm that mobile phone ownership had a positive and significant impact on per capita household consumption during the period of 2006 ? 2008. The impact ranged from 5.6\% to 15.3\% in the increases of per capita total consumption, depending on the regression model chosen, implying that households use mobile phones as a tool of finding resources and information linked to economic activities. Moreover, the mobile phone impact was also higher for those households classified as poor and for households in the rural areas. Interestingly, however, the impact of mobile phone on per capita total consumption is greater for non-poor than poor rural households. This finding indicates that the mobile phone is used as a supplement means or as a production factor to improve the economic performance of the non-poor rural group.} } @article{pittir16698, month = {November}, title = {Three dimensional anatomy of the anterior cruciate ligament: a new approach in anatomical orthopedic studies and a literature review}, author = {Gustavo Arliani and DC Astur and Moraes and Golano and Kaleka and Cohen and Jalikjian}, year = {2012}, pages = {183 -- 183}, journal = {Open Access Journal of Sports Medicine}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16698/} } @unpublished{pittir12132, month = {May}, title = {MERKEL CELL POLYOMAVIRUS POSITIVE MERKEL CELL CARCINOMA - FROM DIAGNOSIS TO THERAPY}, author = {Reety Arora}, year = {2012}, keywords = {cancer, malignancy, virus, tumor virus, Merkel cell carcinoma, polyomavirus, survivin, drug screen, CM2B4 antibody, diagnosis, therapy}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12132/}, abstract = {Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCV) is one of the newer members of the polyomavirus family, recently discovered as clonally integrated into the genomes of a subset of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). MCV is the first polyomavirus that is widely accepted to cause a human cancer and its identification has resulted in a paradigm shift in the understanding of MCC biology. In the vast majority of the population, MCV is a harmless member of the normal human microbial flora, but can initiate an aggressive cancer if it integrates into the host genome and acquires a precise set of viral mutations that result in replication incompetence (in a susceptible host). This dissertation describes how the identification of a new viral cause of MCC was harnessed to develop new diagnostic assays and therapeutic options for MCC. To assess MCV infection and its association with MCC as well as other human diseases, a monoclonal antibody that specifically recognizes both endogenous and transfected MCV large T antigen was developed. Using this antibody, specific nuclear localization of MCV T antigen in MCC tumor cells was demonstrated. A quantitative PCR assay revealed that MCV is present in MCC at {\ensuremath{>}}1 copy per tumor cell. These assays were used to survey non-MCC tissues including hematolymphoid malignancies, neuroendocrine tumors, and various dermatologic cancers.None showed association with MCV infection. Restricted expression of the MCV LT oncoprotein to MCC tumor cells provides the mechanistic underpinning supporting the notion that MCV causes a subset of MCC. To investigate treatment options for MCC two methods were used. An in vitro drug screen of 1360 chemotherapeutic and pharmacologically active compounds resulted in the identification of a proteasome inhibitor, bortezomib, as a potent but nonselective candidate. To rationally and specifically target MCV positive MCC, deep-sequence profiles of MCV positive MCC tumors were compared to MCV negative MCC tumors. Among 64 cell death related genes, a seven fold differential expression of survivin was observed in MCV positive MCC. MCV T antigen knock down in MCV positive cell lines decreased survivin mRNA and protein expression. Also, exogenously expressed MCV T antigen increased survivin protein in non-MCC primary cells in an RB protein binding dependent manner. A survivin inhibitor, YM155 initiated selective nonapoptotic MCV positive MCC cell death. YM155 was nontoxic and halted MCV positive MCC xenograft tumor growth in mice while bortezomib was inactive and caused significant toxicity in vivo.} } @unpublished{pittir15914, month = {July}, title = {Special Collections Summer Open House Flyer, 2012}, author = {Elvia M. Arroyo-Ramirez}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15914/}, abstract = {Flyer prepared for the Special Collections Summer Open House, July 25, 2012.} } @unpublished{pittir10627, month = {January}, title = {Covariate Adjusted Discrimination with Applications to Neuroscience}, author = {Josephine Asafu-Adjei}, year = {2012}, keywords = {linear discriminant analysis, classification trees, recursive partitioning algorithm, matched design, post-mortem tissue studies, schizophrenia}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10627/}, abstract = {In post-mortem tissue studies that compare regional brain biomarkers across different mental disorder diagnostic groups, subjects are often matched on several demographic characteristics and measured on additional covariates. The goal of our research is to integrate the results from these types of studies using two commonly used statistical discrimination techniques, namely, linear discriminant analysis (LDA) and classification trees based on the algorithm developed by Breiman, Friedman, Olshen, and Stone (BFOS), to identify the most discriminatory subset of biomarkers. Subject matching and covariate effects don't appear in the literature implementing these discriminatory methods in the analysis of post-mortem tissue studies (e.g., Knable et al. 2001; Knable et al. 2002). Although there are methods that have been developed for LDA to account for covariate effects on the response or feature variables of interest, none of these methods addresses the fact that individuals may also be matched across several groups. One aspect of our research extends this work to handle group matching. To develop the theoretical foundations required to account for covariate effects in classification trees, we describe how to implement the BFOS algorithm, which is non-parametric and traditionally implemented in a data based setting, when the feature variables come from a known distribution. We then extend this algorithm to the case where the feature variables come from a known distribution, conditional on a covariate value. From this development, we carefully formulate a semi-parametric model for the conditional distribution of the feature variables that allows the use of the BFOS algorithm to construct a covariate adjusted tree based on one unique set of feature variables, in both a theoretical setting and in the context of training data. Finally, the tree construction procedure we develop using this conditional model is extended to handle group matching. Our adjustment methodology is successfully applied to a series of post-mortem tissue studies conducted by Sweet et al. (2003, 2004, 2007, 2008) comparing several neurobiological characteristics of schizophrenia subjects and normal controls, and to a post-mortem tissue study conducted by Konopaske et al. (2008) comparing brain biomarker measurements of monkeys across three treatment groups.} } @article{pittir29868, volume = {10}, number = {1}, month = {May}, title = {FUTURE PERSPECTIVES IN MELANOMA RESEARCH. Meeting report from the "Melanoma Research: A bridge from Naples to the World. Napoli, December 5 {\ensuremath{<}}sup{\ensuremath{>}}th{\ensuremath{<}}/sup{\ensuremath{>}}-6 {\ensuremath{<}}sup{\ensuremath{>}}th{\ensuremath{<}}/sup{\ensuremath{>}}2011"}, author = {PA Ascierto and AM Grimaldi and B Curti and MB Faries and S Ferrone and K Flaherty and BA Fox and TF Gajewski and JE Gershenwald and H Gogas and K Grossmann and A Hauschild and FS Hodi and R Kefford and JM Kirkwood and S Leachmann and M Maio and R Marais and G Palmieri and DL Morton and A Ribas and DF Stroncek and R Stewart and E Wang and N Mozzillo and FM Marincola}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of Translational Medicine}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29868/}, abstract = {After more than 30 years, landmark progress has been made in the treatment of cancer, and melanoma in particular, with the success of new molecules such as ipilimumab, vemurafenib and active specific immunization.After the first congress in December 2010, the second edition of " Melanoma Research: a bridge from Naples to the World" meeting, organized by Paolo A. Ascierto (INT, Naples, Italy), Francesco M. Marincola (NIH, Bethesda, USA), and Nicola Mozzillo (INT, Naples, Italy) took place in Naples, on 5-6 December 2011. We have identified four new topics of discussion: Innovative Approaches in Prevention, Diagnosis and Surgical Treatment, New Pathways and Targets in Melanoma: An Update about Immunotherapy, and Combination Strategies.This international congress gathered more than 30 international faculty members and was focused on recent advances in melanoma molecular biology, immunology and therapy, and created an interactive atmosphere which stimulated discussion of new approaches and strategies in the field of melanoma. {\copyright} 2012 Ascierto et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir29911, volume = {10}, number = {1}, month = {May}, title = {The role of BRAF V600 mutation in melanoma}, author = {PA Ascierto and JM Kirkwood and JJ Grob and E Simeone and AM Grimaldi and M Maio and G Palmieri and A Testori and FM Marincola and N Mozzillo}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of Translational Medicine}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29911/}, abstract = {BRAF is a serine/threonine protein kinase activating the MAP kinase/ERK-signaling pathway. About 50 \% of melanomas harbors activating BRAF mutations (over 90 \% V600E). BRAFV600E has been implicated in different mechanisms underlying melanomagenesis, most of which due to the deregulated activation of the downstream MEK/ERK effectors. The first selective inhibitor of mutant BRAF, vemurafenib, after highly encouraging results of the phase I and II trial, was compared to dacarbazine in a phase III trial in treatment-na{\"i}ve patients (BRIM-3). The study results showed a relative reduction of 63 \% in risk of death and 74 \% in risk of tumor progression. Considering all trials so far completed, median overall survival reached approximately 16 months for vemurafenib compared to less than 10 months for dacarbazine treatment. Vemurafenib has been extensively tested on melanoma patients expressing the BRAFV600E mutated form; it has been demonstrated to be also effective in inhibiting melanomas carrying the V600K mutation. In 2011, both FDA and EMA therefore approved vemurafenib for metastatic melanoma carrying BRAFV600 mutations. Some findings suggest that continuation of vemurafenib treatment is potentially beneficial after local therapy in a subset of patients with disease progression (PD). Among who continued vemurafenib {\ensuremath{>}}30 days after local therapy of PD lesion(s), a median overall survival was not reached, with a median follow-up of 15.5 months from initiation of BRAF inhibitor therapy. For patients who did not continue treatment, median overall survival from the time of disease progression was 1.4 months. A clinical phase I/II trial is evaluating the safety, tolerability and efficacy of vemurafenib in combination with the CTLA-4 inhibitor mAb ipilimumab. In the BRIM-7 trial vemurafenib is tested in association with GDC-0973, a potent and highly selective inhibitor of MEK1/2. Preliminary data seem to indicate that an additional inhibitor of mutated BRAF, GSK2118436, might be also active on a wider range of BRAF mutations (V600E-K-D-R); actually, treatment with such a compound is under evaluation in a phase III study among stage III-IV melanoma patients positive for BRAF mutations. Overall, BRAF inhibitors were well tolerated; common adverse events are arthralgia, rash, fatigue, alopecia, keratoacanthoma or cutaneous squamous-cell carcinoma, photosensitivity, nausea, and diarrhea, with some variants between different inhibitors. {\copyright} 2012 Ascierto et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir18081, volume = {39}, number = {4}, month = {November}, author = {T Avnet and TP Michel and AT Stephen}, title = {Consumers' trust in feelings as information}, journal = {Journal of Consumer Research}, pages = {720 -- 735}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18081/}, abstract = {The diagnosticity of feelings in judgment depends not only on their representativeness and relevance, but also on people's trust in their feelings in general. Trust in feelings is the degree to which individuals believe that their feelings generally point toward the "right" direction in judgments and decisions. Six studies show that a higher trust in feelings (a) increases the reliance on feelings as a judgment criterion, (b) amplifies the influence of ad-induced feelings in persuasion, (c) magnifies the ratio bias in risky choice, and (d) increases the rejection of unfair offers in the ultimatum game. Further, (e) when feelings are highly relevant, they are relied upon regardless of the level of trust, whereas when feelings have low relevance, they are relied upon only if people trust them. Finally, (f) assessments of trust in feelings require significant processing resources. A refined model of feelings as information is advanced based on these findings. {\copyright} 2012 by JOURNAL OF CONSUMER RESEARCH, Inc.} } @article{pittir12693, volume = {7}, number = {6}, month = {June}, title = {{\ensuremath{\beta}}-Catenin loss in hepatocytes promotes hepatocellular cancer after diethylnitrosamine and phenobarbital administration to mice}, author = {PK Awuah and BH Rhieu and S Singh and A Misse and SPS Monga}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12693/}, abstract = {Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common cancer worldwide. {\ensuremath{\beta}}-Catenin, the central orchestrator of the canonical Wnt pathway and a known oncogene is paramount in HCC pathogenesis. Administration of phenobarbital (PB) containing water (0.05\% w/v) as tumor promoter following initial injected intraperitoneal (IP) diethylnitrosamine (DEN) injection (5 {\ensuremath{\mu}}g/gm body weight) as a tumor inducer is commonly used model to study HCC in mice. Herein, nine fifteen-day male {\ensuremath{\beta}}-catenin knockout mice (KO) and fifteen wild-type littermate controls (WT) underwent DEN/PB treatment and were examined for hepatic tumorigenesis at eight months. Paradoxically, a significantly higher tumor burden was observed in KO (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.05). Tumors in KO were {\ensuremath{\beta}}-catenin and glutamine synthetase negative and HGF/Met, EGFR \& IGFR signaling was unremarkable. A significant increase in PDGFR{\ensuremath{\alpha}} and its ligand PDGF-CC leading to increased phosphotyrosine-720-PDGFR{\ensuremath{\alpha}} was observed in tumor-bearing KO mice (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.05). Simultaneously, these livers displayed increased cell death, stellate cell activation, hepatic fibrosis and cell proliferation. Further, PDGF-CC significantly induced hepatoma cell proliferation especially following {\ensuremath{\beta}}-catenin suppression. Our studies also demonstrate that the utilized DEN/PB protocol in the WT C57BL/6 mice did not select for {\ensuremath{\beta}}-catenin gene mutations during hepatocarcinogenesis. Thus, DEN/PB enhanced HCC in mice lacking {\ensuremath{\beta}}-catenin in the liver may be due to their ineptness at regulating cell survival, leading to enhanced fibrosis and regeneration through PDGFR{\ensuremath{\alpha}} activation. {\ensuremath{\beta}}-Catenin downregulation also made hepatoma cells more sensitive to receptor tyrosine kinases and thus may be exploited for therapeutics. {\copyright} 2012 Awuah et al.} } @article{pittir14016, volume = {7}, number = {1}, month = {January}, title = {CAG repeat variants in the POLG1 gene encoding mtDNA polymerase-gamma and risk of breast cancer in African-American women}, author = {S Azrak and V Ayyasamy and G Zirpoli and C Ambrosone and EV Bandera and DH Bovbjerg and L Jandorf and G Ciupak and W Davis and KS Pawlish and P Liang and K Singh}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14016/}, abstract = {The DNA polymerase-gamma (POLG) gene, which encodes the catalytic subunit of enzyme responsible for directing mitochondrial DNA replication in humans, contains a polyglutamine tract encoded by CAG repeats of varying length. The length of the CAG repeat has been associated with the risk of testicular cancer, and other genomic variants that impact mitochondrial function have been linked to breast cancer risk in African-American (AA) women. We evaluated the potential role of germline POLG-CAG repeat variants in breast cancer risk in a sample of AA women (100 cases and 100 age-matched controls) who participated in the Women's Circle of Health Study, an ongoing multi-institutional, case-control study of breast cancer. Genotyping was done by fragment analysis in a blinded manner. Results from this small study suggest the possibility of an increased risk of breast cancer in women with minor CAG repeat variants of POLG, but no statistically significant differences in CAG repeat length were observed between cases and controls (multivariate-adjusted odds ratio 1.74; 95\% CI, 0.49-6.21). Our study suggests that POLG-CAG repeat length is a potential risk factor for breast cancer that needs to be explored in larger population-based studies. {\copyright} 2012 Azrak et al.} } @unpublished{pittir11785, month = {June}, title = {TURKEY AND THE RESCUE OF JEWS DURING THE NAZI ERA: A REAPPRAISAL OF TWO CASES; GERMAN-JEWISH SCIENTISTS IN TURKEY \& TURKISH JEWS IN OCCUPIED FRANCE}, author = {IZZET I. BAHAR}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Turkish Jews, Holocaust, German-Jewish Scientists Refuged to Turkey in Nazi Era,Turkish Government Approach to the Exiled German-Jewish Scholars,Turkish Jews in France during WWII, Turkish Policies towards Jews in WWII, Desperate Hours, The Turkish Passport, Stanford Shaw, Ambassador Steinhardt, The Quincentennial Foundation, Rescue of Jews in WWII,}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11785/}, abstract = {The study aims to investigate in depth two incidents that have been widely presented in literature as examples of the humanitarian and compassionate Turkish Republic lending her helping hand to Jewish people who had fallen into difficult, even life threatening, conditions under the racist policies of the Nazi German regime. The first incident involved recruiting more than one hundred Jewish scientists and skilled technical personnel from German-controlled Europe for the purpose of reforming outdated academia in Turkey. The second incident is the rescue of Jews of Turkish origin as well as those of non-Turkish origin from France during WWII. Both events were vociferously introduced for the first time in the early 1990s, within the discourse of the Quincentennial Foundation founded to commemorate the five hundreth year of immigration of Jews to the Ottoman Empire following their expulsion from Spain in 1492. Our study shows that behind the Turkish recruitment of German-Jewish scholars, it was not humanitarian motives, but the interest of the Turkish state was the main and only motivation and the Jewishness of those scientists did not play any role in the decision of their employment. The study also shows that the Turkish government did not appear to have shown any concrete intention to rescue its Jewish citizens in France who were under the threat of deportations, particularly in the last months of 1942. On the contrary, with mass denaturalization policies, the government was reluctant to take back a sizable portion of its Jewish citizens in France. Only in December 1943, with the obvious defeat of Germany on the horizon and with the realization that only a small number of Jewish citizens would return, did the government give consent to their transportation to Turkey. The sources analyzed also do not confirm an unconventional or special altruistic act of the Turkish diplomats in France in relation to protecting or saving Jewish victims at that time.} } @unpublished{pittir10610, month = {February}, title = {CONTROLLING MIXING AND SEGREGATION IN TIME PERIODIC GRANULAR FLOWS}, author = {TATHAGATA BHATTACHARYA}, year = {2012}, note = {All changes as suggested by Jamie Radocay via email on Sept 22, 2011, have been Incorporated.}, keywords = {granular flow, particle, mixing, segregation, discrete element method, particle dynamics, tumbler, chute, periodic flow inversion, collisional flow, rate-based separation, ratchet, static separator, dissipative particle dynamics, non-spherical droplet.}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10610/}, abstract = {Segregation is a major problem for many solids processing industries. Differences in particle size or density can lead to flow-induced segregation. In the present work, we employ the discrete element method (DEM) ? one type of particle dynamics (PD) technique ? to investigate the mixing and segregation of granular material in some prototypical solid handling devices, such as a rotating drum and chute. In DEM, one calculates the trajectories of individual particles based on Newton?s laws of motion by employing suitable contact force models and a collision detection algorithm. Recently, it has been suggested that segregation in particle mixers can be thwarted if the particle flow is inverted at a rate above a critical forcing frequency. Further, it has been hypothesized that, for a rotating drum, the effectiveness of this technique can be linked to the probability distribution of the number of times a particle passes through the flowing layer per rotation of the drum. In the first portion of this work, various configurations of solid mixers are numerically and experimentally studied to investigate the conditions for improved mixing in light of these hypotheses. Besides rotating drums, many studies of granular flow have focused on gravity driven chute flows owing to its practical importance in granular transportation and to the fact that the relative simplicity of this type of flow allows for development and testing of new theories. In this part of the work, we observe the deposition behavior of both mono-sized and polydisperse dry granular materials in an inclined chute flow. The effects of different parameters such as chute angle, particle size, falling height and charge amount on the mass fraction distribution of granular materials after deposition are investigated. The simulation results obtained using DEM are compared with the experimental findings and a high degree of agreement is observed. Tuning of the underlying contact force parameters allows the achievement of realistic results and is used as a means of validating the model against available experimental data. The tuned model is then used to find the critical chute length for segregation based on the hypothesis that segregation can be thwarted if the particle flow is inverted at a rate above a critical forcing frequency. The critical frequency, fcrit, is inversely proportional to the characteristic time of segregation, ts. Mixing is observed instead of segregation when the chute length L {\ensuremath{<}} Uavg*ts, where Uavg denotes the average stream-wise flow velocity of the particles. While segregation is often an undesired effect, sometimes separating the components of a particle mixture is the ultimate goal. Rate-based separation processes hold promise as both more environmentally benign as well as less energy intensive when compared to conventional particle separations technologies such as vibrating screens or flotation methods. This approach is based on differences in the kinetic properties of the components of a mixture, such as the velocity of migration or diffusivity. In this portion of the work, two examples of novel rate-based separation devices are demonstrated. The first example involves the study of the dynamics of gravity-driven particles through an array of obstacles. Both discrete element (DEM) simulations and experiments are used to augment the understanding of this device. Dissipative collisions (both between the particles themselves and with the obstacles) give rise to a diffusive motion of particles perpendicular to the flow direction and the differences in diffusion lengths are exploited to separate the particles. The second example employs DEM to analyze a ratchet mechanism where a current of particles can be produced in a direction perpendicular to the energy input. In this setup, a vibrating saw-toothed base is employed to induce different mobility for different types of particles. The effect of operating conditions and design parameters on the separation efficiency are discussed.} } @unpublished{pittir11611, month = {June}, title = {Testing Processability Theory in L2 Spanish: Can Readiness or Markedness Predict Development?}, author = {CARRIE BONILLA}, year = {2012}, keywords = {second language acquisition, morphology, Spanish as a second language, Processability Theory, syntax}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11611/}, abstract = {The goal of this dissertation is to test the five stages of Processability Theory (PT) for second language (L2) learners of Spanish and investigate how instruction can facilitate the development through the stages. PT details five fixed stages in the acquisition of L2 morphosyntax based on principles of speech processing (Levelt, 1989) and modeled on Lexical- Functional Grammar (LFG) (Kaplan \& Bresnan, 1982; Bresnan, 2001). In addition, two models that predict how instruction can affect staged language development are tested: the Teachability Hypothesis (Pienemann, 1984, 1989), which says that instruction will only be effective if aimed at the next developmental stage and Projection Model (Zobl, 1983, 1985), which claims that instruction on more marked items can project to less marked, related items. In Study 1, the specific stages for L2 Spanish morphology and syntax were proposed and tested on a cross-sectional corpus of conversational data by learners (n=21) with L1 English. Implicational scaling confirmed the five stages for the syntax and morphology with 100\% scalability. Syntax was also found to emerge before morphology at all five stages. Studies 2 and 3 tested the effect of instruction aimed at Stages 3, 4 and 5 for beginning (first and second semester) learners of Spanish (N=57). Learners? oral production and stage gains were measured between a pre-test, a post-test two days after instruction, and a delayed post-test three weeks later. Learners? production of the target structures increased after instruction on the next, next + 1 or next + 2 stages, while the control groups made no significant changes. These results present counter-evidence to the prediction of the Teachability Hypothesis that instruction only on the next stage can aid learners to advance to subsequent developmental stages. Overall, the results offer further cross-linguistic support for the PT hierarchy, while refuting one of its corollaries, the Teachability Hypothesis.} } @unpublished{pittir11495, title = {The \&Spaces Library}, author = {Megan Babal and Hannah Buckland and Ryan Champagne and Jennifer Chan and Karin Dickins and Matthew Hynes and Gary Peter and Denise Petrik and Anne Schwan and Sarah Voels}, publisher = {University of Pittsburgh}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11495/}, abstract = {Capstone project for LIS 2005 involving the redesign of public library institutions with a focus on physical space. Conference poster, PowerPoint, and paper attached.} } @unpublished{pittir11685, month = {June}, title = {Chromosome Abnormalities in Neonates with Congenital Heart Defects}, author = {Kristine Bachman}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Congenital heart defects, CHD, copy number variants, chromosome abnormalities, array CGH }, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11685/}, abstract = {Congenital heart disease (CHD) contributes to the rate of birth defects in the population with an incidence of nearly 1\% of all live births (1). CHD has significant Public Health importance due to its high incidence, clinical severity, and complexity of medical management. In some cases, efficiently diagnosing the underlying cause of CHD is essential to providing optimal clinical care. The etiology of CHD is hypothesized to be largely multifactorial in nature, but chromosome abnormalities account for 8-13\% of all CHD (2, 3). It has recently been recognized that submicroscopic chromosome abnormalities known as copy number variants (CNVs) may also play a role in causing CHD. Array comparative genomic hybridization (array CGH) has recently been added as a first-tier test for neonates with CHD at our institution, due to its ability to detect CNVs which were previously undetectable by classical cytogenetic analysis. Our study is a prospective chart review of data from neonates with CHD admitted to the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit at Children?s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC. The purpose of this study was to assess the clinical efficacy of array CGH as a first-tier test in this population. Our results show that array CGH increases the detection rate of chromosome aberrations by 20\% above classical cytogenetic analysis alone. However, the majority of CNVs detected in our study had unclear clinical significance. For this reason, collaboration between Cardiology and Medical Genetics is essential to interpreting the clinical relevance of array CGH results in order to provide an accurate, timely genetic diagnosis and ultimately improve the clinical care of neonates with CHD. } } @article{pittir29788, volume = {6}, number = {1}, month = {December}, title = {Complex partial non-convulsive status epilepticus masquerading as hepatic encephalopathy: a case report}, author = {Maaz B Badshah and Haris Riaz and Sana Aslam and Moaviz B Badshah and Mark A Korsten and Muhammad Bilal Munir}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of Medical Case Reports}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29788/} } @unpublished{pittir11494, month = {June}, title = {Art \& Language and the Politics of Art Worlds, 1969-1977}, author = {Robert Bailey}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Art, Politics, Art World, Conceptual Art}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11494/}, abstract = {My dissertation reassesses the role conceptual art played amidst the transition from modern to contemporary art during the second half of the twentieth century by focusing on the movement?s international scope and structure. My inquiry centers on Art \& Language, an art collective comprising dozens of conceptual artists, and I emphasize a rarely discussed but absolutely essential aspect of their work together: the collaborations they undertook between the United States, England, Australia, and Yugoslavia that employed travel, exhibitions, publications, correspondence, and communication technologies to forge an unwieldy but productive alliance between likeminded thinkers and practitioners on three continents. I account for the art and writing that emerged from this interconnected web in terms of the innovative artistic and political strategies that Art \& Language developed by prioritizing written and spoken language, and I situate their work relative to the realignment of international relations during the period of their association. In so doing, I show how Art \& Language conceptualized opposition to the emerging global art world, which was {--} as it remains {--} driven primarily by monolithic institutions and official discourses. I argue that Art \& Language?s preference for interpersonal contact and intercultural exchange provides tools for articulating a politics of artistic activity adequate to art?s loss of autonomy and its gain of worldliness during the passage from modern to contemporary art.} } @unpublished{pittir6237, month = {January}, title = {Dynamic Binary Translation for Embedded Systems with Scratchpad Memory}, author = {Jose Americo Baiocchi Paredes}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Dynamic Binary Translation, Code Cache Management, Embedded Systems, System-on-Chip, Scratchpad Memory, NAND Flash, Demand Paging, Code Compression, Footprint Reduction, Software Caching}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/6237/}, abstract = {Embedded software development has recently changed with advances in computing. Rather than fully co-designing software and hardware to perform a relatively simple task, nowadays embedded and mobile devices are designed as a platform where multiple applications can be run, new applications can be added, and existing applications can be updated. In this scenario, traditional constraints in embedded systems design (i.e., performance, memory and energy consumption and real-time guarantees) are more difficult to address. New concerns (e.g., security) have become important and increase software complexity as well. In general-purpose systems, Dynamic Binary Translation (DBT) has been used to address these issues with services such as Just-In-Time (JIT) compilation, dynamic optimization, virtualization, power management and code security. In embedded systems, however, DBT is not usually employed due to performance, memory and power overhead. This dissertation presents StrataX, a low-overhead DBT framework for embedded systems. StrataX addresses the challenges faced by DBT in embedded systems using novel techniques. To reduce DBT overhead, StrataX loads code from NAND-Flash storage and translates it into a Scratchpad Memory (SPM), a software-managed on-chip SRAM with limited capacity. SPM has similar access latency as a hardware cache, but consumes less power and chip area. StrataX manages SPM as a software instruction cache, and employs victim compression and pinning to reduce retranslation cost and capture frequently executed code in the SPM. To prevent performance loss due to excessive code expansion, StrataX minimizes the amount of code inserted by DBT to maintain control of program execution. When a hardware instruction cache is available, StrataX dynamically partitions translated code among the SPM and main memory. With these techniques, StrataX has low performance overhead relative to native execution for MiBench programs. Further, it simplifies embedded software and hardware design by operating transparently to applications without any special hardware support. StrataX achieves sufficiently low overhead to make it feasible to use DBT in embedded systems to address important design goals and requirements.} } @unpublished{pittir11920, month = {June}, title = {Characterization of Gene Expression During Biofilm Development in Mycobacterium smegmatis, and Genetic Analysis of a Surface Translocation-Defective Transposon Mutant}, author = {Amrita Balachandran}, year = {2012}, keywords = {biofilms, Mycobacteria, iron, siderophore, mycobactin, surface translocation, sliding motility}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11920/}, abstract = {Tuberculosis is the leading cause of death due to a single infectious agent, and over one-third of the global population is infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the etiologic agent of human tuberculosis. In recent years, the likelihood of biofilm-based infections contributing toward bacterial persistence and increased drug tolerance, has gained some recognition. M. tuberculosis and its non-pathogenic fast-growing relative, M. smegmatis, have been found to form biofilms that harbor bacteria that are more resistant to anti-tuberculosis agents than free-living cells. Biofilm formation involves the development of several distinct morphological structures, with associated physiological features. Bacteria growing within biofilms exist as heterogeneous populations, dependent on the distinct micro-environments within the complex community structure. Consequently, gene expression profiles differ between sub-populations of cells, and also during distinct stages of biofilm development. Gene expression in biofilms also differs greatly from the gene expression profiles of planktonically growing cells of the same species. M. smegmatis biofilms can serve as a model for other mycobacterial biofilms. Transcriptome analyses of M. smegmatis biofilms have led to the identification of several genes that were induced in a biofilm-specific pattern. Iron plays an essential role in mycobacterial growth, metabolism and infection. Taken together with its significance in biofilm development, the detailed profiling of the expression of iron acquisition genes in mature biofilms would provide insight into the physiological state of the bacterial cells within these structures. Using stable fluorescent reporter constructs, we have provided a detailed profile for the expression of the intramembrane-associated siderophore, mycobactin. Our results suggest that mycobactin biosynthesis is differentially induced in biofilms and in liquid cultures. In mature biofilms, a significant proportion of cells induce mycobactin biosynthesis in spite of the availability of iron-rich conditions. Our analyses also attempt to sort out subsets of cells within the biofilm that differentially induce mycobactin biosynthesis. In a related study undertaken to understand the relationship between biofilm formation and surface translocation in M. smegmatis, we have isolated a transposon mutant that is defective in sliding motility, but proficient in biofilm formation. This mutant suggests that biofilm formation in M. smegmatis does not depend on sliding motility.} } @incollection{pittir22542, volume = {4}, author = {Daniel Balderston}, booktitle = {Encyclopedia of the Bible and its Reception}, address = {Berlin}, title = {Borges, Jorge Luis}, publisher = {De Gruyter}, pages = {374 -- 375}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22542/} } @incollection{pittir14251, author = {Daniel Balderston}, booktitle = {Homenaje a Ricardo Piglia}, editor = {Teresa Orecchia Havas}, address = {Buenos Aires}, title = {El Borges de Piglia}, publisher = {Cat{\'a}logos}, pages = {145 -- 155}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14251/} } @article{pittir20622, volume = {12}, title = {Filosof{\'i}a de la composici{\'o}n}, author = {Daniel Balderston}, publisher = {Universidad Nacional del Litoral}, year = {2012}, pages = {75 -- 80}, journal = {El hilo de la f{\'a}bula}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20622/}, abstract = {This article is a reflection on how two narrative texts, "Sombras sobre un esmerilado by the Argentine writer Juan Jos{\'e} Saer, and the novel Sin remedio by the Colombian writer Antonio Caballero, deal with a narrative situation in which a poet is writing a poem.} } @article{pittir17254, volume = {41}, number = {122}, author = {Daniel Balderston}, title = {Liminares: sobre el manuscrito de "El hombre en el umbral"}, publisher = {University of Maryland}, journal = {Hispam{\'e}rica}, pages = {28 -- 36}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17254/} } @article{pittir16131, volume = {7}, title = {Los manuscritos de Borges: "Imaginar una realidad m{\'a}s compleja que la declarada al lector"}, author = {Daniel Balderston}, publisher = {Universit{\'e} de Paris VIII}, year = {2012}, journal = {Cuadernos LIRICO}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16131/} } @article{pittir12116, volume = {33}, title = {The Universe in a Nutshell: The Long Sentence in Borges's "El Aleph"}, author = {Daniel Balderston}, publisher = {University of Pittsburgh}, year = {2012}, pages = {1 -- 20}, journal = {Variaciones Borges}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12116/} } @techreport{pittir14381, month = {March}, type = {Other}, title = {Edici{\'o}n cr{\'i}tico-gen{\'e}tica de cuatro cuentos de Silvina Ocampo}, author = {Daniel Balderston and Enrique Chac{\'o}n and Andrea Juliana Enciso and Kayla Paulk and Arturo Matute Castro and Mar{\'i}a Auxiliadora Balladares and Mar{\'i}a Julia Rossi}, publisher = {Centre de Recherches Latino-Am{\'e}ricaines}, year = {2012}, institution = {University of Pittsburgh}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14381/}, abstract = {This article includes genetic critical versions of four stories by Silvina Ocampo, "La casa de los relojes," "La furia," "Tales eran sus rostros" and "Las invitadas," with introductions to the edition of each story, a full inventory of variants in the multiple manuscripts, and some conclusions about Ocampo's writing practice.} } @article{pittir19749, number = {5}, month = {March}, author = {Daniel Balderston and Mar{\'i}a Julia Rossi and Mar{\'i}a Auxiliadora Balladares and Andrea Juliana Enciso and Arturo Matute Castro and Enrique Chac{\'o}n and Kayla Paulk}, title = {Edici{\'o}n cr{\'i}tico-gen{\'e}tica de cuatro cuentos de Silvina Ocampo}, publisher = {Universit{\'e} de Poitiers}, journal = {Escritural}, pages = {308 -- 362}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19749/}, abstract = {This article includes genetic critical versions of four stories by Silvina Ocampo, "La casa de los relojes," "La furia," "Tales eran sus rostros" and "Las invitadas," with introductions to the edition of each story, a full inventory of variants in the multiple manuscripts, and some conclusions about Ocampo's writing practice.} } @inproceedings{pittir13459, month = {July}, title = {A trust-and-risk aware RBAC framework: Tackling insider threat}, author = {N Baracaldo and J Joshi}, year = {2012}, pages = {167 -- 176}, journal = {Proceedings of ACM Symposium on Access Control Models and Technologies, SACMAT}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13459/}, abstract = {Insider Attacks are one of the most dangerous threats organizations face today. An insider attack occurs when a person authorized to perform certain actions in an organization decides to abuse the trust, and harm the organization. These attacks may negatively impact the reputation of the organization, its productivity, and may produce losses in revenue and clients. Avoiding insider attacks is a daunting task. While it is necessary to provide privileges to employees so they can perform their jobs efficiently, providing too many privileges may backfire when users accidentally or intentionally abuse their privileges. Hence, finding a middle ground, where the necessary privileges are provided and malicious usage are avoided, is necessary. In this paper, we propose a framework that extends the role-based access control (RBAC) model by incorporating a risk assessment process, and the trust the system has on its users. Our framework adapts to suspicious changes in users' behavior by removing privileges when users' trust falls below a certain threshold. This threshold is computed based on a risk assessment process that includes the risk due to inference of unauthorized information. We use a Coloured-Petri net to detect inferences. We also redefine the existing role activation problem, and propose an algorithm that reduces the risk exposure. We present experimental evaluation to validate our work. Copyright 2012 ACM.} } @article{pittir15887, volume = {7}, number = {8}, month = {August}, title = {Mitochondrial respiration - an important therapeutic target in melanoma}, author = {M Barbi de Moura and G Vincent and SL Fayewicz and NW Bateman and BL Hood and M Sun and J Suhan and S Duensing and Y Yin and C Sander and JM Kirkwood and D Becker and TP Conrads and B van Houten and SJ Moschos}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15887/}, abstract = {The importance of mitochondria as oxygen sensors as well as producers of ATP and reactive oxygen species (ROS) has recently become a focal point of cancer research. However, in the case of melanoma, little information is available to what extent cellular bioenergetics processes contribute to the progression of the disease and related to it, whether oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) has a prominent role in advanced melanoma. In this study we demonstrate that compared to melanocytes, metastatic melanoma cells have elevated levels of OXPHOS. Furthermore, treating metastatic melanoma cells with the drug, Elesclomol, which induces cancer cell apoptosis through oxidative stress, we document by way of stable isotope labeling with amino acids in cell culture (SILAC) that proteins participating in OXPHOS are downregulated. We also provide evidence that melanoma cells with high levels of glycolysis are more resistant to Elesclomol. We further show that Elesclomol upregulates hypoxia inducible factor 1-{\ensuremath{\alpha}} (HIF-1{\ensuremath{\alpha}}), and that prolonged exposure of melanoma cells to this drug leads to selection of melanoma cells with high levels of glycolysis. Taken together, our findings suggest that molecular targeting of OXPHOS may have efficacy for advanced melanoma. {\copyright} 2012 Barbi de Moura et al.} } @article{pittir24241, volume = {27}, number = {5}, month = {May}, author = {KE Barbour and R Boudreau and ME Danielson and AO Youk and J Wactawski-Wende and NC Greep and AZ LaCroix and RD Jackson and RB Wallace and DC Bauer and MA Allison and JA Cauley}, title = {Inflammatory markers and the risk of hip fracture: The women's health initiative}, journal = {Journal of Bone and Mineral Research}, pages = {1167 -- 1176}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/24241/}, abstract = {Cytokines play a major role in bone remodeling in vitro and in animal models, with evidence supporting the involvement of inflammatory markers in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis. However, less is known about the longitudinal association of inflammatory markers with hip fracture. We tested whether high receptor levels of proinflammatory cytokines are associated with an increased risk of hip fracture in older women. We used a nested case-control study design from the Women's Health Initiative Observational Study (WHI-OS) and selected 400 cases with physician-adjudicated incident hip fractures and 400 controls matched on age, race, and date of blood draw. Participants were chosen from 39,795 postmenopausal women without previous hip fractures, not using estrogens or other bone-active therapies. Incident hip fractures (median follow-up 7.1 years) were verified by review of radiographs and confirmed by blinded central adjudicators. Hip fractures with a pathological cause were excluded. In multivariable models, the risk of hip fracture for subjects with the highest levels of inflammatory markers (quartile 4) compared with those with lower levels (quartiles 1, 2, and 3) was 1.43 (95\% confidence interval [CI], 0.98-2.07) for interleukin-6 (IL-6) soluble receptor (SR), 1.40 (95\% CI, 0.97-2.03) for tumor necrosis factor (TNF) SR1, and 1.56 (95\% CI, 1.09-2.22) for TNF SR2. In subjects with all three markers in the highest quartile, the risk ratio of fracture was 2.76 (95\% CI, 1.22-6.25) in comparison with subjects with 0 or 1 elevated marker(s) (p trend=0.018). Elevated levels of inflammatory markers for all three cytokine-soluble receptors were associated with an increased risk of hip fractures in older women. Future clinical trials should test whether interventions to decrease inflammatory marker levels reduces hip fractures. {\copyright} 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.} } @unpublished{pittir10472, month = {January}, title = {Inflammatory Markers and the Risk of Hip Fracture: The Women's Health Initiative}, author = {Kamil Elie Barbour}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Inflammation, hip fractures, cytokines, women, osteoporosis, nested case-control}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10472/}, abstract = {Cytokines play a major role in bone remodeling in vitro and in animal models, with evidence supporting the involvement of inflammatory markers in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis. However, less is known about the longitudinal association of inflammatory markers with hip fracture, the most devastating consequence of osteoporosis. The public health significance of hip fractures is substantial; the one-year mortality rate after a hip fracture in women is estimated to range from 17-22\%. Thus, preventing hip fractures is a public health imperative. We tested whether high receptor levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines are associated with an increased risk of hip fracture in older women. The Women?s Health Initiative Observational Study (WHI-OS)is a nested case-control study among 400 cases with physician adjudicated incident hip fractures and 400 age, race, and date of blood draw matched controls. Subjects were selected from 39,795 postmenopausal women without previous hip fractures, not using estrogens or other bone-active therapies. Conditional logistic regression was used to estimate the risk ratios for hip fracture. Incident hip fractures (median follow-up 7.1 years) were verified by review of radiological, magnetic resonance imaging, or operative reports and confirmed by blinded central adjudicators. Hip fractures with a pathological cause were excluded.In multivariate models, the risk ratio (95\% CIs) of hip fracture for subjects with the highest inflammatory markers (quartile 4) compared with those with lower inflammatory markers (quartiles 1, 2, and 3) was 1.43 (0.98, 2.07) for interleukin-6 receptor (IL-6 SR) and 1.41 (0.97, 2.05) for tumor necrosis factor receptor 1 (TNF SR1) and 1.57 (1.09-2.25) for tumor necrosis factor receptor 2 (TNF SR2). In subjects with all three high inflammatory markers, the risk ratio of fracture was 2.27 (1.04, 4.93) in comparison with subjects with 0 or 1 elevated marker(s) (p trend = 0.042). Inflammatory markers may be one of the strongest risk factors of hip fracture to date. Future clinical trials should test whether interventions to decrease inflammatory marker levels reduces hip fractures.} } @unpublished{pittir16265, booktitle = {Western Pennsylvania-West Virginia Chapter of the Association of College and Research Libraries (WPWVC/ACRL) Fall Meeting 2012}, month = {November}, title = {Pennsylvania Libraries: Research \& Practice - A new, peer-reviewed, online, Open Access journal}, author = {John H Barnett}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16265/}, abstract = {This poster discusses the development and focus of Pennsylvania Libraries: Research \& Practice, a new Open Access journal, created by the College \& Research Division (CRD) of the Pennsylvania Library Association (PaLA) and published by the University Library System (ULS), University of Pittsburgh.} } @unpublished{pittir10546, month = {January}, title = {Predicting Biological Degradation and Toxicity of Steroidal Estrogens}, author = {William Barr}, year = {2012}, note = {The document itself counting copyright and thesis data (counted as roman numerals) is 101 pages. The actual thesis is 87 pages}, keywords = {ethinylestradiol, molecular orbital theory, estrogenicity, human estrogen receptor, biodegradation, estrogen receptor enzyme}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10546/}, abstract = {This study was to construct a model to predict a variety of biological transformations of Ethinylestradiol (EE2) using electronic theory and to analyze the estrogenic potential of EE2 and its metabolites. As a secondary goal, Frontier Electron Density (FED) theory was applied to the natural steroidal estrogens, estrone (E1), estradiol (E2) and estriol (E3) to determine if similar initiating reactions could be expected. Electron density profiles were calculated for EE2 metabolites to determine possible metabolic pathways up to the cleavage of the first ring. The pathways predicted in this study assume that enzymes commonly found in wastewater treatment systems will be available to attack EE2 and each metabolite. Predictive pathways were generated for EE2 based on the electron density and well established degradation rules. A number of metabolites were shown to be consistent with FED theory. There are many methods available for effectively calculating the electron density of a given molecule. Calculations were carried out on the Pittsburgh Supercomputer (PSC) using the computational chemistry software Gaussian 03. Two molecular orbital theories available for use in Gaussian 03 were used and results compared to determine if the level of theory significantly affected the accuracy of the electron density calculations. In the beginning of this study only one theory was used but after studying the available theories in more detail I implemented a theory that was shown to be more accurate in literature. Using this information and well established degradation rules, metabolic pathways leading up to the first ring cleavage were predicted. Experimentally measured metabolites appear in the predicted pathways. In order to evaluate the environmental impacts of steroidal estrogens and their subsequent metabolites the estrogenic potential is calculated using chemaxon software. The estrogenic potential was estimated for EE2 and each of its metabolites both predicted and experimental as well as E1, E2 and E3 and known experimentally measured metabolites that are similar to EE2. In all cases the estrogenic potential of the metabolites indicate that they have a lower toxicity than the parent compounds but may still retain estrogenic potential after biotransformation.} } @article{pittir29854, volume = {14}, number = {4}, month = {July}, title = {Monitoring diabetes in patients with and without rheumatoid arthritis: a Medicare study}, author = {CM Bartels and JM Saucier and CT Thorpe and AJH Kind and N Pandhi and KE Hansen and MA Smith}, year = {2012}, journal = {Arthritis Research and Therapy}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29854/}, abstract = {Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is a key predictor of mortality in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. Both RA and diabetes increase the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), yet understanding of how comorbid RA impacts the receipt of guideline-based diabetes care is limited. The purpose of this study was to examine how the presence of RA affected hemoglobin A1C (A1c) and lipid measurement in older adults with diabetes.Methods: Using a retrospective cohort approach, we identified beneficiaries ?65 years old with diabetes from a 5\% random national sample of 2004 to 2005 Medicare patients (N = 256,331), then examined whether these patients had comorbid RA and whether they received guideline recommended A1c and lipid testing in 2006. Multivariate logistic regression was used to examine the effect of RA on receiving guideline recommended testing, adjusting for baseline sociodemographics, comorbidities and health care utilization.Results: Two percent of diabetes patients had comorbid RA (N = 5,572). Diabetes patients with comorbid RA were more likely than those without RA to have baseline cardiovascular disease (such as 17\% more congestive heart failure), diabetes-related complications including kidney disease (19\% higher), lower extremity ulcers (77\% higher) and peripheral vascular disease (32\% higher). In adjusted models, diabetes patients with RA were less likely to receive recommended A1c testing (odds ratio (OR) 0.84, CI 0.80 to 0.89) than those without RA, but were slightly more likely to receive lipid testing (OR 1.08, CI 1.01 to 1.16).Conclusions: In older adults with diabetes, the presence of comorbid RA predicted lower rates of A1c testing but slightly improved lipid testing. Future research should examine strategies to improve A1c testing in patients with diabetes and RA, in light of increased CVD and microvascular risks in patients with both conditions. {\copyright} 2012 Bartels et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir11792, month = {May}, title = {Electron Interactions in Carbon Nanomaterials}, author = {Brian Barth}, year = {2012}, keywords = {nanotubes, graphene, photocatalysis, enzymatic oxidation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11792/}, abstract = {The following research reflects two areas of interest in carbon nanomaterials: (1) enzymatic oxidation and (2) photocatalytic applications. Horseradish peroxidase (HRP) is known to catalyze oxidation of carbon nanomaterials. Here, we closely examine the kinetics of enzymatic oxidation of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) using HRP. We show that CNTs oxidized by harsh acid treatment become shorter, more defective, and lose their specific absorption bands and fluorescent signals. After treatment with HRP and H2O2, these oxidized CNTs show a decrease in average CNT length, a decrease in defective area, and return of characteristic absorption bands and fluorescence. We observed that CNTs chemically oxidized using weaker oxidation treatment were shortened, slightly more defective than before acid treatment, did not lose their characteristic absorption bands, but did lose fluorescence. After treatment with HRP and H2O2 there was a decrease in length, a decrease in defective area, no observed change in absorption spectra bands and fluorescent signal did not return. H2O2 treated oxidized CNTs, showed similar results to HRP treated samples but did not recover their fluorescent signals. TiO2 is a popular photocatalyst due to its small band gap, low cost, and low toxicity. Limitations in photocatalysis using TiO2 are due to electron ? hole recombination following electron excitation from the valence band to conduction band. Efforts to retard electron ? hole recombination involve doping TiO2 with metals, which have electron trapping sites on their surfaces. Carbon nanomaterials show promise as TiO2 dopants due to their large surface area,electron storage capacity, and interaction with metal oxide surface groups. Here, we demonstrate synthesis of TiO2 ? carbon nanomaterials using sol ? gel techniques and that electron transfer is possible under UV irradiation. Comparing synthesized TiO2-SWNTs and commercially available anatase TiO2 nanoparticles, we find no significant improvement in photocatalytic oxidation of dye. Furthermore, TiO2 ? SWNTs do not photoreduce CO2. P25 TiO2 nanoparticles oxidize dye in these studies, and have demonstrated the ability to reduce CO2 in published works. Lack of homogeneity in the TiO2 crystalline structure may be responsible for these differences. We show prolonged UV expose may degrade TiO2 ? GO photocatalysts, possibly through ROS generation.} } @unpublished{pittir10617, month = {February}, title = {DESIGN OF ESCHERICHIA COLI HOST STRAINS FOR IMPROVED RECOMBINANT PROTEIN PURIFICATION: AN APPROACH THAT BRIDGES THE UPSTREAM AND DOWNSTREAM REALMS OF BIOPROCESSING}, author = {Patrick Bartlow}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Escherichia coli Strain optimization Protein purification Immobilized metal affinity Chromatography}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10617/}, abstract = {Escherichia coli is a favored host for rapid, scalable expression of recombinant proteins for academic, commercial or therapeutic use. To maximize its economic advantages, however, it must be coupled with robust downstream processes. These are typically composed of three or fewer chromatography steps that remove the majority of the host proteins to achieve a reasonable degree of purification. Removal of remaining impurities is often very difficult and costly due similarity among physicochemical properties with the target. This work implements a novel approach that overcomes such limitations by bridging upstream and downstream realms, that is, by subjecting lysed cell material to a variety of purification procedures, identifying individual impurities and mitigating their removal by genetic modification. Successful knockout of three prominent contaminants of immobilized metal affinity chromatography (IMAC) without detriment to cell growth or recombinant protein expression was demonstrated. Elution of the recombinant target was strategically manipulated with peptide tags that allowed purification to virtual homogeneity. Additional IMAC studies focused on the most problematic host proteins, those that retained binding affinity under stringent conditions. Two-dimensional difference gel electrophoresis discerned variation in the soluble extract pools loaded in IMAC and the subsequent impurities, with respect to varied levels of recombinant protein expression. Peptidyl-prolyl isomerase SlyD and catabolite activator protein were shown to be the most persistent contaminants and had greater prevalence at low target protein expression. Since genetic removal of the transcription activator would negatively impact cellular function, I substituted specific residues to eliminate its IMAC affinity with minimal impact on its activity. I applied this integrative strategy seeking to improve performance of cheaper, non-affinity based processes. Phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase and peptidase D were significant contaminants during serial purification of a target by hydrophobic interaction and anion exchange chromatography. Ribosomal protein L25 dominated non-target binding of a polyarginine tagged recombinant on cation exchange resin. With the development of comprehensive genomic manipulation in higher order species, such integrative approaches will be conventional in the development of coupled expression systems for the production of complex biologics. } } @unpublished{pittir11865, month = {June}, title = {Law, Society, and Judicial Politics: State Supreme Courts and the Pursuit of Educational Equity}, author = {Oliver Bateman}, year = {2012}, keywords = {law, education, law and society, school finance policy, school finance litigation, state supreme courts, judicial politics, new judicial federalism, legal history, history of education}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11865/}, abstract = {Since the late 1970s, state supreme courts have demonstrated an increased willingness to intervene in disputes on a host of issues ranging from defamation to budget deficits. Activists of all stripes now pursue their agendas in the context of what Richard Nixon dubbed the ?New Federalism,? and education reform{--}a function traditionally handled by state and local governments{--}has occupied much of their attention. While a considerable amount of academic work has focused quite narrowly on either education policy or supreme court decision-making, few scholars have yet examined the intersection between the two; i.e., how have state and federal judges made education policy, and what reasons have they provided to justify their actions. For historians of education, law enters this story only peripherally as they focus on matters such as test scores and physical plant investments. Legal historians analyze the ratio decidendi on which each decision was based, trying to determine whether a particular constitutional clause or juridical argument impelled the result. However, the complex and evolving relationship between race and class{--}seemingly indissoluble in the American setting{--}that plays out in the context of these school funding disputes cannot be captured by a single method of analysis or monocausal explanation. By placing state supreme court decisions on school finance from the late 20th century in the context of constitutional framing and caselaw from the 19th, and weaving together judicial opinions, lawyers? pleadings, law review articles, and transcripts of interviews with state supreme court justices and appellate lawyers, I hope to produce a detailed history of legal conflicts over school funding that will fill any extant lacunae. As policymakers at the state level attempt to forge more socioeconomically equitable and racially inclusive systems of education, it behooves them to contemplate the haphazard, contentious, and at times fructifying nature of these highly politicized judicial decisions. } } @article{pittir22955, volume = {26}, number = {3}, month = {May}, author = {M Bathgate and J Sims-Knight and C Schunn}, title = {Thoughts on Thinking: Engaging Novice Music Students in Metacognition}, journal = {Applied Cognitive Psychology}, pages = {403 -- 409}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22955/}, abstract = {Achieving expertise in any area requires extensive practice and engagement with the subject one desires to master. As not all practice yields good progress, methods must be found that lead learners to practice effectively. Many experts employ highly tailored practice involving metacognitive processes, but novices rarely engage in frequent and explicit metacognitive strategies during practice. As a result, novice progress may be impeded through repetition of systematic errors and ineffective techniques. Our study provides evidence of the effectiveness of teaching metacognition to novice music students through weekly lessons. Thirty-five adolescent students of six instructors were randomly assigned to metacognitive focus or existing practice teaching conditions. Students receiving metacognitive teaching achieved higher performance ratings when compared with students receiving control instruction, even though practice time did not vary between groups. These results suggest that having students explicitly verbalize and reflect on their learning process produces more efficient practice and greater end performance. {\copyright} 2011 John Wiley \& Sons, Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir10537, month = {February}, title = {SCHEDULING MULTIPLE OPERATING ROOMS UNDER UNCERTAINTY}, author = {Sakine Batun}, year = {2012}, keywords = {operating room scheduling, operating room rescheduling, operating room pooling, parallel surgery processing, multiple operating rooms, two-stage stochastic mixed-integer programming, multi-stage stochastic mixed-integer programming.}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10537/}, abstract = {Operating room (OR) scheduling is an important operational problem for most hospitals. Uncertainty in the surgery delivery process, the existence of multiple resources and competing performance criteria are among the important aspects of OR scheduling problems in practice. Considering these aspects, this dissertation focuses on developing and efficiently solving novel stochastic programming models for multi-OR scheduling problems under uncertainty in surgery durations. We first consider a stochastic multi-OR scheduling problem with multiple surgeons where the daily scheduling decisions are made before the resolution of uncertainty. We formulate the problem as a two-stage stochastic mixed-integer program that minimizes the sum of the fixed cost of opening ORs and the expected overtime and surgeon idling cost. Decisions in our model include the number of ORs to open, the allocation of surgeries to ORs, the sequence of surgeries in each OR, and the start times for surgeons. Realistic-sized instances of our model are difficult or impossible to solve with standard stochastic programming techniques. Therefore, we exploit several structural properties of our model and describe a novel set of widely applicable valid inequalities to achieve computational advantages. We use our results to quantify the value of capturing uncertainty and the benefit of pooling ORs, and to demonstrate the impact of parallel surgery processing on surgery schedules. We then consider a stochastic multi-OR scheduling problem where the initial schedule is revised at a prespecified rescheduling point during the surgical day. We formulate the problem as a three-stage stochastic mixed-integer program that minimizes the sum of the fixed cost of opening ORs and the expected overtime cost. The number of ORs to open and the allocation of surgeries to ORs are the first-, and the revisions on the allocation of surgeries to ORs are the second-stage decisions in our model. For our computational study, we consider a special case, which is a two-stage stochastic mixed-integer program, where rescheduling decisions are made under perfect information. We use stage-wise and scenario-wise decomposition methods to solve our model. By using our results, we estimate the value of rescheduling, and illustrate the impact of different surgery sequencing rules on this value.} } @article{pittir29820, volume = {12}, month = {October}, title = {A Phase II study of pulse dose imatinib mesylate and weekly paclitaxel in patients aged 70 and over with advanced non-small cell lung cancer}, author = {JE Bauman and KD Eaton and SG Wallace and LL Carr and SJ Lee and DV Jones and H Arias-Pulido and LA Cerilli and RG Martins}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Cancer}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29820/}, abstract = {Background: In non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), interstitial hypertension is a barrier to chemotherapy delivery, and is mediated by platelet derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR). Antagonizing PDGFR with imatinib may improve intra-tumoral delivery of paclitaxel, increasing response rate (RR).Methods: This single-stage, open-label phase II study evaluated pulse dose imatinib and weekly paclitaxel in elderly patients with advanced NSCLC. Eligible patients were aged ? 70 with untreated, stage IIIB-IV NSCLC and ECOG performance status 0-2. Primary endpoint was RR. Secondary endpoints included median progression free and overall survival (PFS, OS) and correlatives of PDGFR pathway activation. Baseline Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) and Vulnerable Elder Survey-13 (VES-13) were correlated with outcomes.Results: Thirty-four patients with median age 75 enrolled. Eleven of 29 (38\%) were frail by VES-13 score. Overall RR was 11/34 (32\%; 95\% CI 17\%-51\%), meeting the primary endpoint. Median PFS and OS were 3.6 and 7.3 months, respectively. High tumoral PDGF-B expression predicted inferior PFS. Frail patients by VES-13 had significantly worse median PFS (3.2 vs. 4.5 months; p=0.02) and OS (4.8 vs. 12 months; p=0.02) than non-frail.Conclusions: The combination of imatinib and paclitaxel had encouraging activity as measured by the primary endpoint of RR. However, PFS and OS were typical for elderly patients treated with single agent chemotherapy and the regimen is not recommended for further study. Adjunct imatinib did not overcome the established association of tumoral PDGF-B expression with inferior PFS. VES-13 was a powerful predictor of poor survival outcomes. Frailty should be further studied as a predictor of non-benefit from chemotherapy.Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01011075. {\copyright} 2012 Bauman et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir11717, month = {July}, title = {Perceived Neighborhood Contentedness and its Impact on Physical and Sedentary Activity in Adolescents}, author = {Michael Bazaco}, year = {2012}, keywords = {"physical activity" "epidemiology" "neighborhood" "contentedness" "neighborhood safety" "physical activity"}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11717/}, abstract = {Adolescent health is an important part of public health. Activity patterns, such as physical activity and screen time can have direct effects on this. It is important to understand what barriers to healthy activity choices exist and understand why they exist. In the following study a measure of perceived neighborhood contentedness was developed utilizing aspects of perceived neighborhood safety, familiarity and comfort. This measure was then measured in a large, nationally representative population of adolescents and evaluated for its appropriateness. The association between perceived neighborhood contentedness and physical activity as well as sedentary activity was then evaluated. Perceived neighborhood contentedness did have a significant association with an increased level of physical activity in the population. This relationship was consistent across both genders and study waves. It had a smaller but still significant relationship with sedentary activity, as measured by screen time duration. Adolescent health is an important aspect of public health and interventions to increase healthy lifestyle decisions are key in promoting this. Perceived neighborhood contentedness is important to consider when developing public health plans to promote physical activity and reduce sedentary activity in the community. Neighborhood factors should be considered when developing these interventions.} } @article{pittir18818, number = {2}, title = {Other People?s Digital Tools: Adaptive Reuse, Cold War History, and the GSA?s Real Property Utilization and Disposal Website}, author = {Brian Beaton}, publisher = {The Graduate Center, City University of New York}, year = {2012}, journal = {The Journal of Interactive Technology \& Pedagogy}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18818/}, abstract = {This essay focuses on a property disposal website run by the General Services Administration (GSA). The website inadvertently grants intimate access to Cold War?era buildings and built environments that were previously ?Off Limits? to civilians, including students and scholars of Cold War history. I begin the essay by discussing the heavy building that occurred within the mainland US during the Cold War era and explain why, in the 1990s, US policymakers suddenly came to view themselves as having too much defense-related property. I then discuss the online auction website currently used by the GSA to dispose of Cold War properties and outline the website?s key features. I also provide an example of a large military base in California that was sold through the GSA?s website and subsequently re-developed for new and unrelated purposes, a process that many architects and planners call ?adaptive reuse.? In Part 2 of the essay, I explain how the GSA property disposal website can be used for teaching purposes despite its intended goal of serving private land developers. In my discussion, I borrow the term ?adaptive re-use? and elaborate it into a digital humanities concept.} } @unpublished{pittir10888, month = {January}, title = {Essays in Corporate Finance}, author = {Mary Becker}, year = {2012}, keywords = {customers, suppliers, supply chain, merger wave, concentration, changes in concentration, product markets}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10888/}, abstract = {My dissertation includes two related essays in supply chain and corporate finance. The first is sole authored and entitled ?Do merger waves cause ripples in vertically related industries? and the second is co-authored with Shawn Thomas and entitled ?Changes in concentration across vertically related industries?. In the first, I use a sample of all industries experiencing merger activity between 1980 and 2008 to investigate the relation between customer and supplier horizontal merger waves. I find evidence that a merger wave in a customer (supplier) industry increases the likelihood of a subsequent merger wave in a related industry by 30\% (28\%), depending on the definition of merger wave used. Additional tests of the data show that industry merger waves are more likely to follow customer merger waves, but not necessarily supplier merger waves, when bargaining power motives are at work. I find that vertically related industry merger waves occur subsequent to supplier and customer industry merger waves, suggesting that merger waves move along the supply chain. Finally, I find that the association between related industry horizontal merger waves is strongest for non-consumer goods industries and industries with little product differentiation. In the second essay, we investigate the magnitude, timing, and direction of the association between changes in concentration across vertically related industries over the period 1978-2008. We find robust evidence that changes in an industry?s level of concentration are significantly positively related to prior and simultaneous changes in the concentration of their customer industries. We find weaker evidence that changes in an industry?s level of concentration are related to changes in the concentration of their supplier industries. Thus, the association between changes in concentration across vertically related industries appears stronger in the upstream direction than in the downstream direction. We find that increased concentration across vertically related industries, perhaps reflecting countervailing power effects, explains in part the observed positive association between changes in concentration; however, we also find robust evidence that decreases in concentration, perhaps reflecting the effects of technological innovation in vertically related industries, are also important determinants of the observed association.} } @unpublished{pittir10887, month = {January}, title = {THE LINKAGES BETWEEN ORGANIZATIONAL BEHAVIOR AND CHARACTERISTICS OF DONOR CAPITAL FLOW: THE CASE OF MICROFINANCE CAPITAL FLOW IN SIERRA LEONE}, author = {David Bell}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Microfinance, Capital Volatility, Bureaucracy, Grounded Theory, Accountability}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10887/}, abstract = {Capital, in the form of foreign aid, is a very substantial revenue form for many developing nations. Foreign aid is integral to strategies of nations working to relieve human suffering and achieve a secure, stable world. One of the greatest impediments to foreign aid effectiveness is unpredictability, or capital volatility. At a macro level, capital volatility?s impact in developing nations is multiples of that in the industrialized world. Capital volatility has been shown to substantially impact social welfare costs and both the efficiency and effectiveness of aid. Thus, volatility reduces the value of foreign aid. This investigation explored linkages between organizational behavior and capital volatility by analyzing the promises and disbursement conditions agreed to by donors and microfinance recipient organizations: capital investment deals. Capital volatility is defined as the difference between commitments and disbursements. The examination utilized a case study of a donor collaborative project{--}Microfinance Institution Technical Assistance Facility in Sierra Leone{--}the first of over 20 created to develop an inclusive, pro-poor financial sector by assisting microfinance institutions. Disbursement conditions and bureaucracy alone are not sufficient explanations of capital volatility. A deeper analysis revealed the role of each party?s perceptions and expectations in their respective understandings of a performance based agreement that defines the deal as a relationship, not just a legal document. These understandings are the bases of each party?s decisions and actions, often with ethical implications and consequences. This project has produced a theoretical lens ? the Capitalflow Bureaucratic Triad - to understand this complexity and plan future volatility reducing strategies. } } @unpublished{pittir13013, month = {July}, title = {GENOMICS OF ENDOGLIN PATHWAY IN PREECLAMPSIA}, author = {Mandy J. Bell and Yvette P. Conley and James M. Roberts and Sandra A. Founds and Lauren Terhorst}, year = {2012}, keywords = {preeclampsia, endoglin, genetics, genetic association, SNP}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13013/}, abstract = {THE GENOMICS OF ENDOGLIN PATHWAY IN PREECLAMPSIA Mandy J. Bell, PhD, RN University of Pittsburgh, 2012 Preeclampsia is a pregnancy disorder that greatly impacts maternal and fetal/neonatal health and wellbeing. This case-control candidate gene association study investigated endoglin pathway genetic variation and its association with preeclampsia. Tagging single nucleotide polymorphisms (tSNPs) in ENG, TGF{\ensuremath{\beta}}1, TGF{\ensuremath{\beta}}R1, ALK1, and TGF{\ensuremath{\beta}}R2 were genotyped with iPLEX? and TaqMan? in maternal/fetal dyads. The Prenatal Exposures and Preeclampsia Prevention study provided maternal DNA extracted from peripherally collected white blood cell pellets, along with umbilical cord serum we used for fetal DNA extraction. Data on 355 white (181 cases/174 controls) and 60 black (30 cases/30 controls) women matched on ancestry, age, and parity were analyzed. Separate subgroup allele/genotype/haplotype tests were conducted with Chi-square or Fisher?s exact tests. Binary logistic regression provided odds ratios for tSNPs with significant genotype tests. Analysis of maternal/fetal dyads was not conducted, because unlike the maternal samples, the fetal samples did not provide a quality template suitable for iPLEX? data collection. In white women, variation in ENG (rs11792480, rs10121110) and TGF{\ensuremath{\beta}}R2 (rs6550005) was associated with preeclampsia. Allelic frequency distributions in rs11792480, rs10121110, and rs6550005 were significantly different among cases and controls while genotype distributions of rs10121110 and rs6550005 were further associated with preeclampsia (p-values {\ensuremath{<}} .05). For rs10121110, women with the AA genotype were 2.290 times more likely to develop preeclampsia compared to the GG genotype (99\% CI [1.022, 5.133], p = .008). ENG haplotype TACGA, which contains rs11792480 and rs10121110 risk alleles, was also over-represented in cases (p = .022). In black women, variation in TGF{\ensuremath{\beta}}1 (rs4803455, rs4803457), TGF{\ensuremath{\beta}}R1 (rs10739778), and TGF{\ensuremath{\beta}}R2 (rs6550005, rs1346907, rs877572) was associated with preeclampsia. Allelic frequency distributions in rs10739778, rs6550005, rs1346907, and rs877572 were significantly different among cases and controls while genotype distributions of rs10739778, rs4803455, and rs4803457 were further associated with preeclampsia (p-values {\ensuremath{<}} .05). For rs4803457, women with the CT genotype were 7.437 more times likely to develop preeclampsia compared to the CC genotype (99\% CI [1.192, 46.408], p = .005). These results demonstrate that variation in ENG pathway genes is associated with preeclampsia, with different genes from the same pathway contributing to preeclampsia in white compared to black women.} } @unpublished{pittir16922, month = {December}, title = {Microbicides as an HIV Prevention Tool: A Review of the Literature}, school = {University of Pittsburgh}, author = {Jennifer Bender}, publisher = {University of Pittsburgh}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16922/}, abstract = {Biomedical HIV prevention research findings are becoming increasingly prevalent in the literature, but in order to get an accurate picture of prevention possibility, adherence and environment must be carefully considered. This essay reviews the available literature, examining reported microbicide trials and participant adherence. Many microbicide trials fail to show efficacy, but participants? adherence is not examined in detail. Even though there have been successes in trials testing microbicides as HIV prevention, the general trend is to dismiss them and explore other opportunities for prevention. Because behavioral interventions have not been entirely effective, microbicide research is significant to public health because it adds a biomedical dimension to the existing prevention effort. This essay aims to show that further studies of both microbicidal efficacy and means to increase participant adherence are needed to move the field of HIV prevention forward.} } @unpublished{pittir12309, month = {June}, title = {Teaching to the Task: Preservice Teachers' Instruction for Cognitively Demanding Writing Assignments}, author = {Susanna Benko}, year = {2012}, keywords = {teaching writing, tasks, writing instruction, cognitive demand, preservice teachers, teacher education}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12309/}, abstract = {In this study, I examine the instruction of four preservice English teachers (PSTs) for cognitively demanding literature-based writing tasks in order to investigate the types of tasks that PSTs identify as cognitively demanding, how PSTs? instruction for such tasks maintains or degrades the task?s intellectual rigor, and possible influences and/or constraints during instruction. Data drew from a) classroom observations of instruction that began at the task?s introduction and continued until the students completed the assignment; b) interviews conducted before the task was handed out, after every classroom observation, and after the final task was completed; and c) classroom artifacts such as the tasks, handouts, and other materials used by teachers. Data analysis focused on understanding the teachers? instructional moves and searching for alignment, or in some cases, misalignment, of this instruction with the demands of the writing task. Findings from this study suggest that even though all of the study?s PSTs demonstrated a high understanding of ?cognitive demand? for writing tasks, they presented tasks of varying levels of cognitive demand during their instruction. Additionally, while all PSTs designed task specific instruction, there was a wide range in the types of instruction provided to support student thinking or student writing. While some of the PSTs? instruction aligned with recommended best practices in writing instruction (e.g., modeling, use of writer?s workshop), it was unclear how such instruction was supporting students to think about the text in relationship to the task and to write in response to the task. Findings from this study suggest that PSTs need the opportunity to closely study writing tasks in order to understand a task?s intellectual work and design instruction to appropriately prepare students to write in response to cognitively demanding literature based writing tasks. } } @inproceedings{pittir12751, volume = {1}, month = {August}, title = {LearNet: A location-based social networking methodology for learner group forming}, author = {JG Benner and M Anwar and HA Karimi}, year = {2012}, pages = {294 -- 298}, journal = {CSEDU 2012 - Proceedings of the 4th International Conference on Computer Supported Education}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12751/}, abstract = {The benefits of collaboration in learning have widely been discussed in the literature. Our position is that location-based social networks can facilitate location-based group formation for learners and support face-to-face collaboration. In this paper, we present a methodology (LearNet) that is focused on the learner's past and current location(s) as a key criterion for recommending peers for collaboration. LearNet is a component of OnLocEd, a location-based social networking model for online learners that can help learners discover content, events, and people in proximity to their current location. LearNet utilizes OnLocEd's location-based features to recommend learner group forming in the social navigation network system (SoNavNet).} } @unpublished{pittir13608, month = {October}, title = {Modernity and Crisis: The Writing of 'the Jew' in Twentieth Century Trans Atlantic Literature}, author = {Deborah Anne Bensadon}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Jewish, Latin American, Literature, Modernity, Spectral, Jewish Body, la polaca, Brazil, Mexico, Spain, Argentina,}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13608/}, abstract = {The western imaginary often associates modernity with the Enlightenment period of the eighteenth century because of its emphasis on the separation of church and state. The efforts to secularize the nations in the name of social progress resulted in a movement that institutionalized the exclusion of marginalized communities. In essence, in its objective to absorb the other into the same, the Enlightenment period perpetuated the very model it attempted to break. Representations of ?the Jew? that had been present in cultural productions as well as socio political discussions as far back as medieval times, evolved to adhere to modern preoccupations of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. As a result, as nations grappled with communities that were marginal from within, the figure of ?the Jew? and the ?Jewish question? emerged in discourses, intertwining the figure of ?the Jew? with modernity in Europe. This study examines how the images and associations that were written to identify ?the Jew? and establish difference had already traveled across the Atlantic to the Americas as far back as the fifteenth century and emerged in cultural productions throughout Latin American texts, establishing a relationship between modernity and ?the Jew? long before the Enlightenment period in Europe. Through textual analyses of narratives from Brazil, Argentina, Mexico and Spain that were all published as of the second half of the twentieth century, this study examines the narrative function of ?the Jew? as a vehicle to address national issues of modernity, identity, national history and crisis. The chapters address traditional representations of the ?Jewish body? and demeanor in order to examine the way in which recent texts write this figure in modern narratives. The study considers ?the Jew? as a ?spectral operator? in these narratives, for they revisit historical contexts such as the Inquisition and the white slave trade of the nineteenth century in order to problematize long held notions of ?the Jew? and the representations of ?Jewishness? in the Latin American scape. } } @unpublished{pittir13911, month = {September}, title = {SEVENTH GRADERS? PERCEPTIONS OF COLLEGE AND CAREER ASPIRATION SUPPORTS IN TWO URBAN CHARTER MIDDLE SCHOOLS}, author = {Linda Berardi-Demo}, year = {2012}, keywords = {college and career aspirations}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13911/}, abstract = {College and career aspirations are important to the development of students? short and long term educational and personal goals. Although students rely on information they receive and are influenced by experiences in which they engage in a variety of settings, for many, school is an important source of college and career information. How students interpret and process this information can affect the development and sustainability of their aspirations, making student perceptions important to the study of college and career aspirations. Seventh grade in particular is a critical time in the development of college and career aspirations as students are beginning to think about their future plans and also make important decisions about the level of effort and engagement that may affect future affordances. Using Social Cognitive Career Theory (Lent, Brown \& Hackett, 1994) as a lens, this study employed a mixed methods approach, which included interviews with teachers, school leaders and guidance counselors and student survey data, to better understand seventh grade students? perceptions of the presence and utility of the college and career supports in two urban charter middle schools. Seventh graders from two urban middle schools completed the Middle School College and Career Aspirations Survey, an online survey that investigated four college and career supports prominent in the research literature. They are: college talk; teacher feedback/advocacy; guidance counselor feedback/advocacy, and college preparation activities. Eighty-five of a possible ninety-three seventh grade students completed the survey. Thirty-five of the participants were male and fifty were female. Overall results of this exploratory study indicate that seventh grade students with varying degrees of self-reported academic performance perceive the presence and utility of college and career supports at similar levels. Results also indicate the need for college and career supports as early as seventh grade. The findings are consistent with the research literature, which stresses the importance of the frequency and quality of the guidance counselor supports and interactions in the overall development of students? aspirations. Future research might include ways to better understand how the supports might productively be instantiated in schools to increase the likelihood that students develop aspirations and that they ultimately pursue those aspirations.} } @article{pittir29849, volume = {10}, number = {1}, title = {First-in-man application of a novel therapeutic cancer vaccine formulation with the capacity to induce multi-functional T cell responses in ovarian, breast and prostate cancer patients}, author = {Neil L Berinstein and Mohan Karkada and Michael A Morse and John J Nemunaitis and Gurkamal Chatta and Howard Kaufman and Kunle Odunsi and Rita Nigam and Leeladhar Sammatur and Lisa D MacDonald and Genevieve M Weir and Marianne M Stanford and Marc Mansour}, year = {2012}, pages = {156 -- 156}, journal = {Journal of Translational Medicine}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29849/} } @unpublished{pittir13615, month = {August}, title = {DENDRITIC CELLS REGULATE THE INDUCTION OF EFFECTOR AND MEMORY CD8+ T CELLS}, author = {Erik Berk}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Dendritic cells, IL-12, CD8+ T cells, central-memory}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13615/}, abstract = {Dendritic cells (DCs) are key antigen-presenting cells in the immune system that can induce pathogen-specific T cell responses by presenting antigen (signal 1) to antigen-specific T cells in combination with co-stimulatory/inhibitory molecules (signal 2) and secretion of cytokines (signal 3). The ability of DCs to orchestrate CD8+ T cell responses, combined with the ability to generate high numbers of DCs in vitro allows for their use in DC-based vaccination protocols. The success of DC-based vaccination protocols and other forms of immunotherapy of cancer is believed to depend on the successful induction of both effector CD8+ T cell (CTLs), able to migrate into and kill tumors, and long-lived memory cells, able to generate a secondary response upon tumor recurrence. However, the signals that drive the differentiation of CD8+ T cells into each of these T cell subsets and the role of DCs in this respect remain unclear. Studies have suggested that the same DC can induce effector cells early after maturation while inducing memory cells after prolonged maturation when the DCs have become exhausted. Here, I analyzed the role of DCs matured under conditions mimicking acute/early inflammation (?inflammatory-DCs?) or mimicking chronic/late inflammation (?non-inflammatory-DCs?) on the differentiation of CD8+ T cells. I observed that ?inflammatory-DCs? produce high levels of IL-12p70 and induce the differentiation of na{\"i}ve CD8+ T cell into cytolytic effector cells with peripheral homing ability. Furthermore, I demonstrate the role of IL-12p70 in this process. In contrast, ?non-inflammatory-DCs? (exhausted DCs) do not produce IL-12p70 and induce the direct differentiation of na{\"i}ve CD8+ T cells into central-memory cells. The superior ability of ?inflammatory-DCs? to induce anti-tumor responses guided me to develop an alternative, low-cost method of generating ?inflammatory-DCs? with strong CTL inducing ability. Lastly, I show that modulation of the tumor-chemokine environment by IFN?, poly-I:C and indomethacin enhanced the attraction of tumor-specific CTLs while reducing regulatory T cell attraction. Together, the presented data broadens our understanding of the mechanisms of DC-induced effector and memory cell differentiation and might lead to the improved DC-based cancer vaccines.} } @unpublished{pittir10555, month = {January}, title = {Vestibular Schwannoma: Epidemiology, Risk Factors, and Quality of Life}, author = {Oren Berkowitz}, year = {2012}, keywords = {acoustic neuroma, brain tumor, neurosurgery, radiosurgery, gamma knife, cell phone, audiogram, sf-36, NHANES}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10555/}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The goal of this study has been to describe the epidemiology of vestibular schwannoma and explore potential risk factors for this tumor. Other goals of this study have been to look at the function and quality of life of patients compared with the general US population as well as outcomes after radiosurgery treatment. METHODS: A 1:1 matched case-control study was designed. Odds ratios were established based on multivariate conditional logistic regression models. Quality of life was measured with the Short-Form 36 Item Health Survey v.2 and audiograms measuring the non-tumor ear were collected and analyzed for comparison with normative US population data. RESULTS: Average age at diagnosis was 53 (StDev{$\pm$}12). More than 90\% of the participants were Caucasian. Patients were evenly distributed by gender. Family history of cancer, a history of hay fever, managerial and professional occupations, and frequent dental x-rays were found to have an increased association with acoustic neuroma in multivariate models. Tobacco use and diabetes were found to have a significantly decreased association with acoustic neuroma in multivariate models. Patients did not have significantly different quality of life scores or audiogram measurements of their non-tumor ear when compared to age-matched US population norms. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with (AN) have the profile of being Caucasian, either gender, in their 50-60?s, and working in managerial, professional jobs. Hay fever, family history of cancer, and frequent dental x-rays are strongly associated with an increase risk of acoustic neuromas. Tobacco use and diabetes demonstrate a protective effect, although the mechanism of this is poorly understood. Patients maintain a quality of life similar to the US population. Acoustic neuromas do not affect hearing in the non-tumor ear. PUBLIC HEALTH SIGNIFICANCE: The epidemiology and risk factors of vestibular schwannoma are poorly understood. Continued research in this area will help to develop an understanding of brain tumor etiology and the role of potential carcinogens in the environment. Functional research will help to look at the role of surgical treatments and the degree of morbidity in these patients.} } @article{pittir14418, volume = {7}, number = {4}, month = {July}, author = {NM Beyene and A Steinfeld and J Pearlman and RA Cooper}, title = {Exploration of health perceptions and assistive technology use by driving status as related to transportation independence in New Delhi, India}, journal = {Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology}, pages = {314 -- 322}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14418/}, abstract = {Purpose: This study investigates travel tendencies among people with disabilities and senior citizens in New Delhi, India to reveal relationships between the desire for transportation independence, use of assistive technology for mobility, travel frequency, and satisfaction with available modes of transportation. Method: Study volunteers received invitations to complete a one-time, three-part questionnaire. The survey included an assessment battery developed by the Quality of Life Technology Engineering Research Center, questions featured in the 2002 National Transportation Availability and Use Survey, and a variation on the PARTS/M and FABS/M questionnaires. Results: 80 study participants completed the questionnaire, and were grouped according to driving status as No Driving Experience (NDE), Ceased Driving (CD), and Continue To Drive (CTD). Participants in the NDE group were less likely to use transportation more than twice daily. However, the CD group had the lowest perceived value for available transportation options, with transportation use comparable to the CTD group and an enduring desire to continue driving. Conclusions: Study findings suggest an inner drive for transportation independence. The rise of driving culture internationally presents driver rehabilitation services with challenges due to the need for vehicle modifications and driving assessment using manual transmission automobiles, scooters, and motorcycles. {\copyright} 2012 Informa UK, Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir13046, month = {September}, title = {Cognitive Interference in Response to Weight Loss Stimuli in Individuals Participating in a Structured Weight Loss Program}, author = {Tina D. Bhargava}, year = {2012}, keywords = {cognitive interference, obesity, attentional resources, weight loss, Stroop, qualitative}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13046/}, abstract = {Although a central concern of public health is the self-management of chronic diseases, the cognitive demands required by behavior change are seldom explored. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of cognitive limitations{--}with a focus on cognitive interference (i.e. ?off task? thoughts){--}on weight loss efforts through both an experimental and a qualitative approach. Individuals currently enrolled in a structured weight loss program completed positive and negative weight-loss related Stroop tasks to measure cognitive interference levels. Response times were compared between and within participants who were engaged (N=25) vs. unengaged (N=15) and successful (N=16) vs. unsuccessful (N=24) with the weight loss program. Successful participants had significantly faster response times (p=.01) on the positive Stroop compared to the negative Stroop (716.6 {$\pm$} 98.1, 761.3 {$\pm$} 106.4), as did the engaged participants (p=.02; 725.1 {$\pm$} 96.7, 759.9 {$\pm$} 111.7). No statistically significant differences were found between successful \& unsuccessful or engaged \& unengaged groups, however the experimental findings suggest that cognitive interference in response to weight-loss related cues may be related to success with and engagement in a weight loss program. A qualitative exploration of interview responses identified themes related to cognitive processes and interference and supported the supposition that unhealthy behaviors are often automatic, and changing them can have high cognitive demands. However, participant responses also indicated that healthy behaviors can be automatized with practice. In addition, the external factors that participants identified as influencing their health behavior choices indicate that a social and built environment that supports healthier decisions would make the health behavior changes less cognitively demanding. The public health significance of these findings is that they indicate that both cognitive limitations and environmental influences should be taken into account when examining the need for health behavior change and designing interventions to address this need. Further research into how cognitive factors affect lifestyle decision-making may contribute to a deeper understanding of how to promote self-care behaviors that lead to better health outcomes.} } @article{pittir29805, volume = {11}, month = {November}, title = {The DEAD/DEAH box helicase, DDX11, is essential for the survival of advanced melanomas}, author = {C Bhattacharya and X Wang and D Becker}, year = {2012}, journal = {Molecular Cancer}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29805/}, abstract = {Background: Despite continuous efforts to identify genes that are pivotal regulators of advanced melanoma and closely related to it, to determine which of these genes have to be blocked in their function to keep this highly aggressive disease in check, it is far from clear which molecular pathway(s) and specific genes therein, is the Achilles' heel of primary and metastatic melanoma. In this report, we present data, which document that the DEAD-box helicase DDX11, which is required for sister chromatid cohesion, is a crucial gatekeeper for melanoma cell survival.Methods: Performing immunohistochemistry and immunoblot analysis, we determined expression of DDX11 in melanoma tissues and cell lines. Following transfection of melanoma cells with a DDX11-specific siRNA, we conducted a qPCR analysis to determine downregulation of DDX11 in the transfected melanoma cells. In subsequent studies, which focused upon an analysis of fluorescently labeled as well as Giesma-stained chromosome spreads, a proliferation analysis and apoptosis assays, we determined the impact of suppressing DDX11 expression on melanoma cells representing advanced melanoma.Result: The findings of the study presented herein document that DDX11 is upregulated with progression from noninvasive to invasive melanoma, and that it is expressed at high levels in advanced melanoma. Furthermore, and equally important, we demonstrate that blocking the expression of DDX11 leads not only to inhibition of melanoma cell proliferation and severe defects in chromosome segregation, but also drives melanoma cells rapidly into massive apoptosis.Conclusion: To date, little is known as to whether helicases play a role in melanoma development and specifically, in the progression from early to advanced melanoma. In this report, we show that the helicase DDX11 is expressed at high levels in primary and metastatic melanoma, and that interfering with its expression leads to severe chromosome segregation defects, telomere shortening, and massive melanoma cell apoptosis. These findings suggest that DDX11 could be an important candidate for molecular targeted therapy for advanced melanoma. {\copyright} 2012 Bhattacharya et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir10593, month = {January}, title = {Optimization of rTDMH as a Reagent Toward Improving the Sensitivity of the RT-PCR Based Diagnosis for Mycobacterium Tuberculosis}, author = {Alexandra Bhatti}, year = {2012}, keywords = {NA}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10593/}, abstract = {Current diagnostic tools being used for tuberculosis lack the speed and sensitivity necessary to successfully combat the current tuberculosis epidemic. Real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction, RT-PCR, can provide the rapid and specific diagnosis that is currently in demand in the global community. Its disadvantage is that due to the waxy and robust nature of the M. tuberculosis membrane, not enough genomic DNA is present to provide for amplification in a RT-PCR. It was previously found in our laboratory that hydrolysis of one of abundant glycolipid of mycobacterial envelope, Trehalose, 6,6?-dimycolate, by a recombinant TDM-specific hydrolase caused rapid lysis of cell (Yong et.al. manuscript submitted). In this study, we tested if rapid lysis by TDM-specific hydrolase (rTDMH) can be exploited in conjunction with the RT-PCR to develop a sensitive diagnosis of tuberculosis. Results demonstrated that by incubation of both attenuated M. tuberculosis, and virulent M. tuberculosis with rTDMH for lysis and subsequent usage of this lysate in a RT-PCR assay, yields sensitive amplification of mycobacterial DNA. rTDMH-mediated lsyis could facilitate amplification of even 10 bacilli, the rTDMH treated cells show amplification while lack of treatment failed to detect these bacilli These results were consistent in in-vitro liquid culture and in complex sputum samples spiked with the mycobacteria, showing that incubation with rTDMH can improve the sensitivity of the RT-PCR. Statement of Public Health relevance: Using rTDMH with RT-PCR as an improved diagnostic tool for tuberculosis due to the rapid, accurate and sensitive nature of the assay could provide the global community with a much better method of diagnosing a disease that has plagued the world for thousands of years. Tuberculosis infects 9 million people and kills 3 million people every year and presently one-third of the world?s population is infected with it. A better diagnostic tool could result in reducing the spread of disease; reducing the mortality associated with disease, especially in HIV infected individuals; and on a broader scale, could reduce the economic burden associated with the disease } } @unpublished{pittir11885, month = {June}, title = {Enhancements of Sparse Clustering with Resampling and Considerations on Tuning Parameter}, author = {Wenzhu Bi}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Sparse clustering, Resampling, High-dimension but small sample size, Imaging, Microarray, Tuning Parameter}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11885/}, abstract = {Clustering methods are widely used to explore subgroupings in data when the true group membership is unknown. These techniques are very useful when identifying potential subpopulations of interest in the medical and public health setting. Examples of these types of subpopulations include subjects who have certain gene expression profiles related to a cancer subtype, and subjects who are in the very early, asymptomatic phase, of a chronic illness. All of these examples are of great public health relevance. Many of the datasets of interest arise from the development of new technologies and are subject to the common problem where p, the number of variables, is significantly larger than the sample size, n. The relatively small sample size, n, may result from the difficulties of subject recruitment and/or the financial burden of the actual data collection in fields such as imaging and genetic analysis. The earlier approaches to clustering treat all of the variables equally, which may not work well when not all of them are relevant to the subgroupings. Clustering methods with variable selection, also called sparse clustering, have been recently developed to deal with this problem. We propose a method to add resampling onto sparse clustering to improve upon the current clustering methodology. The addition of resampling methods to sparse clustering results in variable selection that is more accurate. The method is also used to assign an ?observed proportion of cluster membership? to each observation, providing a new metric by which to measure membership certainty. The performance of the method is studied via simulation and illustrated in the motivating data example. We also propose an alternative approach for the choice of tuning parameter based on an adjusted Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC). Variable selection in sparse clustering is realized by applying Lasso or related penalties and the tuning parameter for these penalties has to be determined beforehand. The gap statistic, a distance-based approach, is used to choose the tuning parameter through permutation and it may behave poorly at times. The proposed BIC approach is an alternative developed under the more sophisticated model-based likelihood framework. Its performance is evaluated with simulations.} } @unpublished{pittir13923, month = {September}, title = {Development of HSV-1 lacking the immunodominant gB498-505 epitope and analyses of the alternative CD8+ T cell response in the murine ocular infection model}, author = {Sarah Bidula}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Herpes Simplex Virus, immunodominance, subdominance, glycoprotein B}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13923/}, abstract = {Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) establishes latent infections in sensory ganglia such as the trigeminal ganglia (TG), and periodically reactivates to cause repeated corneal infections. These may trigger an immune-mediated corneal disease known as herpes stromal keratitis (HSK), which results in corneal scarring, and eventually blindness. HSK is the most common infectious cause of blindness in the US, affecting over a quarter of a million people annually. Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) latent infections in trigeminal ganglia (TG) are associated with persistent CD8+ T cell infiltrate. The ability of such CD8+ T cells to block HSV-1 reactivation from ex vivo ganglionic cultures establish the potential to control reactivation in vivo. As such, targets of CD8+ T cells in the TG will guide vaccination strategies aimed to block reactivation. In latently infected C57BL/6 mice, {\texttt{\char126}}50\% of the CD8+ T cell infiltrate in the TG is directed to an immunodominant epitope (residues 498-505) on viral glycoprotein B (gB-CD8). gB-CD8 can block reactivation from latency. Remaining CD8+ T cells in the TG are virus specific, can block reactivation, but are directed to unknown antigens. Given that CD8+ T cells contribute to maintenance of the HSV-1 latent state, it is important to understand viral antigens targeted by these cells and factors influencing dominance hierarchy. Here, we assessed the CD8+ T cell target specificity in TG of C57BL/6 mice infected with HSV-1 lacking and ectopically restored for the gB498-505 epitope. Epitope mutants with near wild type pathogenicity were isolated, and found to induce TG associated CD8+ T cell infiltrates of size similar to that induced by wild type HSV-1, but with little gB498-505-specificity. The nature of the compensated response reflected increase of CD8+ T cell populations directed to most known subdominant epitopes seen in wild type HSV-1 infection. However, a gB498-505 dominated CD8+ T cell response developed following infection with HSV with gB498-505 epitope-mutation that expressed short gB494-509 peptides at an ectopic (gC) locus. We conclude that loss of the HSV dominant epitope does not alter the size of the HSV-specific CD8+ T cell response nor broaden the TCR repertoire, but rather results in a broader dominance hierarchy of subdominant epitopes rising to co-dominance. We further conclude that immunodominance is not a result of properties of the HSV-1 gB protein itself or its genomic locus. } } @unpublished{pittir10548, month = {January}, title = {ADVANCED TECHNIQUES FOR GAS-PHASE RAMAN SPECTROSCOPY}, author = {Stephen Biedrzycki}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Raman Scattering, Capillary waveguides, optical sensors, Principal component analysis}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10548/}, abstract = {The small cross-sections associated with Raman scattering generally hinders the application of Raman spectroscopy to low density gas analysis. The focus of this work is the development of tools and techniques to enhance collection of Raman-scattered light from gaseous samples contained in hollow-core waveguides. The developments are motivated by a need for accurate, real-time composition analysis of natural gas for clean and efficient turbine operation. Methods to increase the Raman signal and to reduce system noise sources are explored. Silver-coated silica waveguides currently used are covered with a highly fluorescent protective plastic coating which is responsible for most of the system noise. One noise reduction method explored is the replacement of these guides by polished, pure or sterling silver tubes. Work directed toward increasing Raman signals began with an analysis of the modal properties of the hollow waveguides used to contain the Raman medium. This work enabled the optimization of Raman power output and the design of the system?s collection optics. Other efforts include development of a new statistical algorithm that applies principal component analysis to extract the gas composition from a collected Raman spectrum. A novel apparatus replaced the spectrometer normally employed in a Raman sensor system by tunable optical filters in a derivative of wavelength modulation spectroscopy.} } @article{pittir24111, volume = {367}, number = {1}, month = {July}, author = {HA Bischoff-Ferrari and WC Willett and EJ Orav and P Lips and PJ Meunier and RA Lyons and L Flicker and J Wark and RD Jackson and JA Cauley and HE Meyer and M Pfeifer and KM Sanders and HB St{\"a}helin and R Theiler and B Dawson-Hughes}, title = {A pooled analysis of vitamin D dose requirements for fracture prevention}, journal = {New England Journal of Medicine}, pages = {40 -- 49}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/24111/}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The results of meta-analyses examining the relationship between vitamin D supplementation and fracture reduction have been inconsistent. METHODS: We pooled participant-level data from 11 double-blind, randomized, controlled trials of oral vitamin D supplementation (daily, weekly, or every 4 months), with or without calcium, as compared with placebo or calcium alone in persons 65 years of age or older. Primary end points were the incidence of hip and any nonvertebral fractures according to Cox regression analyses, with adjustment for age group, sex, type of dwelling, and study. Our primary aim was to compare data from quartiles of actual intake of vitamin D (including each individual participant's adherence to the treatment and supplement use outside the study protocol) in the treatment groups of all trials with data from the control groups. RESULTS: We included 31,022 persons (mean age, 76 years; 91\% women) with 1111 incident hip fractures and 3770 nonvertebral fractures. Participants who were randomly assigned to receive vitamin D, as compared with those assigned to control groups, had a nonsignificant 10\% reduction in the risk of hip fracture (hazard ratio, 0.90; 95\% confidence interval [CI], 0.80 to 1.01) and a 7\% reduction in the risk of nonvertebral fracture (hazard ratio, 0.93; 95\% CI, 0.87 to 0.99). By quartiles of actual intake, reduction in the risk of fracture was shown only at the highest intake level (median, 800 IU daily; range, 792 to 2000), with a 30\% reduction in the risk of hip fracture (hazard ratio, 0.70; 95\% CI, 0.58 to 0.86) and a 14\% reduction in the risk of any nonvertebral fracture (hazard ratio, 0.86; 95\% CI, 0.76 to 0.96). Benefits at the highest level of vitamin D intake were fairly consistent across subgroups defined by age group, type of dwelling, baseline 25-hydroxyvitamin D level, and additional calcium intake. CONCLUSIONS: High-dose vitamin D supplementation (?800 IU daily) was somewhat favorable in the prevention of hip fracture and any nonvertebral fracture in persons 65 years of age or older. (Funded by the Swiss National Foundations and others.) Copyright {\copyright} 2012 Massachusetts Medical Society.} } @unpublished{pittir13014, month = {September}, title = {DIFFUSION IMAGING OF LIPID MEMBRANES: DEVELOPING MULTI-PULSE NMR TO IMAGE STATIC MEMBRANES SAMPLES}, author = {Kevin Bivona}, year = {2012}, keywords = {solid state NMR nuclear magnetic resonance multi-pulse diffusion imaging lipid membranes rafts}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13014/}, abstract = {A multi-pulse (MP), pulsed-field gradient (PG) stimulated echo (STE) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) pulse program was constructed and refined using ethylene glycol (EG), with the goal of providing a detailed diffusion image of a lipid membrane. This MP PGSTE NMR technique offers a useful combination of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and NMR tools that may provide images of lipid rafts at a length scale that is not restricted by the diffraction limit. MP NMR was used to provide homonuclear dipole-dipole decoupling, directly replacing magic-angle spinning (MAS), in a PGSTE NMR pulse program. Optimizing the use of MP NMR for EG and lipids, it was found that moving the carrier frequency {\texttt{\char126}}2.5 kHz off resonance and shortening the cycle time to the minimum allowed by the probe hardware (in this case 43.2 {\ensuremath{\mu}}s at a power level of 139 kHz) produced the best results. By eliminating the use of magic-angle spinning (MAS), the gradient coils in the NMR diffusion-imaging probe may be placed closer to the sample, increasing their effect. Future work is needed to apply MP PGSTE NMR to static lipid samples. A basic PGSTE NMR diffusion measuring pulse program was used to determine the self-diffusion coefficient, D, of EG with the results showing Dself for EG was 6.5 x 10{\^{ }}-11 m{\^{ }}2 s{\^{ }}-1.} } @article{pittir24116, volume = {27}, number = {2}, month = {February}, author = {DM Black and IR Reid and S Boonen and C Bucci-Rechtweg and JA Cauley and F Cosman and SR Cummings and TF Hue and K Lippuner and P Lakatos and PC Leung and Z Man and RLM Martinez and M Tan and ME Ruzycky and G Su and R Eastell}, title = {The effect of 3 versus 6 years of Zoledronic acid treatment of osteoporosis: A randomized extension to the HORIZON-Pivotal Fracture Trial (PFT)}, journal = {Journal of Bone and Mineral Research}, pages = {243 -- 254}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/24116/}, abstract = {Zoledronic acid 5 mg (ZOL) annually for 3 years reduces fracture risk in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. To investigate long-term effects of ZOL on bone mineral density (BMD) and fracture risk, the Health Outcomes and Reduced Incidence with Zoledronic acid Once Yearly-Pivotal Fracture Trial (HORIZON-PFT) was extended to 6 years. In this international, multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled extension trial, 1233 postmenopausal women who received ZOL for 3 years in the core study were randomized to 3 additional years of ZOL (Z6, n = 616) or placebo (Z3P3, n = 617). The primary endpoint was femoral neck (FN) BMD percentage change from year 3 to 6 in the intent-to-treat (ITT) population. Secondary endpoints included other BMD sites, fractures, biochemical bone turnover markers, and safety. In years 3 to 6, FN-BMD remained constant in Z6 and dropped slightly in Z3P3 (between-treatment difference = 1.04\%; 95\% confidence interval 0.4 to 1.7; p = 0.0009) but remained above pretreatment levels. Other BMD sites showed similar differences. Biochemical markers remained constant in Z6 but rose slightly in Z3P3, remaining well below pretreatment levels in both. New morphometric vertebral fractures were lower in the Z6 (n = 14) versus Z3P3 (n = 30) group (odds ratio = 0.51; p = 0.035), whereas other fractures were not different. Significantly more Z6 patients had a transient increase in serum creatinine {\ensuremath{>}}0.5 mg/dL (0.65\% versus 2.94\% in Z3P3). Nonsignificant increases in Z6 of atrial fibrillation serious adverse events (2.0\% versus 1.1\% in Z3P3; p = 0.26) and stroke (3.1\% versus 1.5\% in Z3P3; p = 0.06) were seen. Postdose symptoms were similar in both groups. Reports of hypertension were significantly lower in Z6 versus Z3P3 (7.8\% versus 15.1\%, p {\ensuremath{<}} 0.001). Small differences in bone density and markers in those who continued versus those who stopped treatment suggest residual effects, and therefore, after 3 years of annual ZOL, many patients may discontinue therapy up to 3 years. However, vertebral fracture reductions suggest that those at high fracture risk, particularly vertebral fracture, may benefit by continued treatment. (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00145327). {\copyright} 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.} } @unpublished{pittir11775, month = {May}, title = {Are you sure?: using the error-related negativity to examine adult L2 learning}, author = {Sarah Blackstone}, year = {2012}, keywords = {second language processing; second language learning; ERN; ERP}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11775/}, abstract = {Previous investigations of second language (L2) learners? proficiency have focused on explicit measures of overt responses. Recent data have shown discrepancies between L2 learners? overtly measured behaviors and covertly measured implicit processes (McLaughlin, Inoue, \& Loveless, 2000). Event-related potentials (ERPs) have been used as a covert measure of implicit sensitivity. Prior studies have focused on the P600 component as a measure of sensitivity to syntactic violations in L2 (Tokowicz \& MacWhinney, 2005; Tolentino \& Tokowicz, 2012). Tokowicz and MacWhinney (2005) used the P600 to index cross-language similarity effects, and found that GJT accuracy scores were lowest in conditions with features unique to L2, however, the ERP responses were the strongest to unique features. This suggests that L2 learners possess implicit sensitivity to L2 violations that is not always indicated by their overt behaviors. The present study looks at another ERP component, the error-related negativity (ERN), which is elicited in response to error processing (Sebasti{\'a}n-Gall{\'e}s, Rodr{\'i}guez-Fornells, Diego-Balaguer, \& D{\'i}az, 2006). We reprocessed previously collected ERP data from Tolentino and Tokowicz (2012; unpublished data) to see if an ERN is present, which would indicate that L2 learners are sensitive to L2 violations. The ERN will be investigated as a function of stimulus grammaticality, response accuracy, electrode site and laterality. We found a significant four way interaction between these variables, as well as significant contrasts in mean amplitudes at certain electrodes. Additionally, we found a positive component elicited in response to errors made in the judgment on ungrammatical stimuli, suggesting the context and the type of error influences how errors are processed. Overall, our data indicate that L2 learners are sensitive to L2 violations, and are at some level aware, not only of what is grammatical, but also what is ungrammatical.} } @unpublished{pittir11827, month = {May}, title = {Archives as Agents of Accountability and Justice: An Examination of the National Security Archive in the Context of Transitional Justice in Latin America}, author = {Joel A. Blanco-Rivera}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Archives; Transitional Justice - Latin America}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11827/}, abstract = {This dissertation uses the National Security Archive as the unit of study to examine the roles and impact of archives in mechanisms of accountability for past human rights violations in Latin America. The National Security Archive, a research institution based at the George Washington University, collects declassified U.S. government documents related to foreign policy. The Archive's documentation and research about U.S. policy in Latin America during the Cold War has uncovered the planning and implementation of counterinsurgency operations by Latin American dictatorships and authoritarian regimes. It has also documented the U.S. government involvement and knowledge of these operations. These records have become vital to transitional justice mechanisms, particularly truth commissions and criminal prosecutions. The National Security Archive has been an active participant in these processes. This research examines the roles of the National Security Archive in mechanisms of past human rights abuses. Through case study research, it performs an analysis of documents, including court decisions, news, and resources from NSA. Semi-structured interviews were also performed. Particular attention is given to the Archive's work in Guatemala. } } @article{pittir29870, volume = {11}, month = {June}, title = {It's a long, long walk: accessibility to hospitals, maternity and integrated health centers in Niger}, author = {JI Blanford and S Kumar and W Luo and AM MacEachren}, year = {2012}, journal = {International Journal of Health Geographics}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29870/}, abstract = {Background: Ease of access to health care is of great importance in any country but particularly in countries such as Niger where restricted access can put people at risk of mortality from diseases such as measles, meningitis, polio, pneumonia and malaria. This paper analyzes the physical access of populations to health facilities within Niger with an emphasis on the effect of seasonal conditions and the implications of these conditions in terms of availability of adequate health services, provision of drugs and vaccinations. The majority of the transport within Niger is pedestrian, thus the paper emphasizes access by those walking to facilities for care. Further analysis compared the change in accessibility for vehicular travel since public health workers do travel by vehicle when carrying out vaccination campaigns and related proactive health care activities.Results: The majority of the roads in Niger are non-paved (90\%). Six districts, mainly in the region of Tahoua lack medical facilities. Patient to health facility ratios were best in Agadez with 7000 people served per health facility. During the dry season 39\% of the population was within 1-hours walk to a health center, with the percentage decreasing to 24\% during the wet season. Further analyses revealed that vaccination rates were strongly correlated with distance. Children living in clusters within 1-hour of a health center had 1.88 times higher odds of complete vaccination by age 1-year compared to children living in clusters further from a health center (p {\ensuremath{<}} 0.05). Three key geographic areas were highlighted where access to health centers took greater than 4 h walk during the wet and dry season. Access for more than 730,000 people can be improved in these areas with the addition of 17 health facilities to the current total of 504 during the dry season (260,000 during the wet season).Conclusions: This study highlights critical areas in Niger where health services/facilities are lacking. A second finding is that population served by health facilities will be severely overestimated if assessments are solely conducted during the dry season. Mapped outputs can be used for future decision making processes and analysis. {\copyright} 2012 Blanford et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir13481, month = {September}, title = {Kant and the Meaning of Existence: A Modal Account}, author = {Ian Blecher}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Kant, modality, epistemology, metaphysics, modern philosophy}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13481/}, abstract = {It is a distinctive claim of Kant?s Critique of Pure Reason that what exists outside the mind is always represented under a modality {--} i.e. as possible, actual or necessary. The interest of this claim is not widely appreciated. Most commentators have ignored it; a few have rejected it out of hand. Since the Critique presents modality as a basic aspect of human knowledge, however, this is a serious oversight. My dissertation is an attempt to rectify it. The main idea is that, for Kant, the knowledge of what exists is connected with a certain kind of progress in the mind {--} a progress from the capacity to know (possibility) to the act of this capacity, (actuality), and finally to the perfection of that act (necessity). To the extent that the representation of this progress figures in our knowledge of what exists, such knowledge is thus at least implicitly modal. I argue, however, that Kant also intends something stronger: viz. that knowledge of what exists is constituted by its representation within the progress of modalities. It follows that modality is not just one feature of this knowledge among others, but its characteristic form.} } @article{pittir29951, volume = {16}, number = {1}, month = {February}, title = {New obstacles to improving the quality of end-of-life care in ICU}, author = {MV Bocharov and JM Kahn}, year = {2012}, journal = {Critical Care}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29951/} } @unpublished{pittir13610, month = {August}, title = {COMPARING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF PELVIC FLOOR MUSCLE TRAINING AND ACUPUNCTURE FOR THE TREATMENT OF URINARY INCONTINENCE AND THE IMPACT ON HEALTH-RELATED QUALITY OF LIFE FOR NON-HOMEBOUND WOMEN {\ensuremath{>}} 50 YEARS OF AGE: A SECONDARY ANALYSIS }, author = {Rosemary Bolinger}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Urinary Incontinenct, Pelvic Floor Muscle Training, Acupuncture, health-related quality of life}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13610/}, abstract = {Background: Urinary incontinence (UI) is a common, chronic health condition. In 2001, it was estimated 20 million Americans experience UI. Incontinence has been shown to negatively impact health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Objectives: The aims of this study of community-dwelling women, {\ensuremath{>}}50 years of age were to: 1) compare the effectiveness PFMT and acupuncture in reducing urinary incontinence, 2) compare their impact on HRQoL, 3) compare subject satisfaction with progress following the intervention phase of each study, 4) compare the treatment burden of each intervention, and 5) examine the relationship between the changes in UI and HRQoL. Method: This secondary analysis used data from two independent RCTs. One study examined the effectiveness of PFMT in reducing UI in homebound and non-homebound men and women age 60 years and older. The second examined the efficacy of acupuncture in treating UI in women {\ensuremath{>}} 25 years. Sample: Two-hundred fifteen women age 50 years were included in the analysis, 148 (69\%) from the PFMT study and 67 (31\%) from the acupuncture study. Measures: Baseline and post-intervention bladder diaries provided data to calculate the reduction in urinary continence. Physical and Mental Health Component scores from the SF-36 (v1.0) were used to measure HRQoL. The Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire provided data regarding satisfaction with progress and treatment burden. Results: After controlling for group differences, PFMT (M = 56.6\%) was more effective than acupuncture (M = 26.0\%, p = .01) in reducing UI. There were no significant differences in the changes in SF-36 component scores between the groups. A higher proportion of women in the PFMT group were satisfied with their progress than in the acupuncture group (p {\ensuremath{<}} .001). There were no significant differences in self-reported treatment burden, which was low in both groups. Reduction in UI did not contribute significantly to the variability in the SF-36 component scores. Conclusion: PFMT was more effective in the short-term treatment of UI in this analysis and should continue to be recommended as first-line therapy for UI. There is not enough evidence at this time to support acupuncture for the treatment of UI in non-homebound women 50 years of age and older. } } @article{pittir29850, volume = {10}, month = {July}, title = {Physical activity and quality of life in severely obese individuals seeking bariatric surgery or lifestyle intervention}, author = {DS Bond and JL Unick and JM Jakicic and S Vithiananthan and J Trautvetter and K CO'Leary and RR Wing}, year = {2012}, journal = {Health and Quality of Life Outcomes}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29850/}, abstract = {Background: Given that bariatric surgery (BS) and lifestyle intervention (LI) represent two vastly different approaches to treating severe obesity, there is growing interest in whether individuals who seek BS versus LI also differ on weight-related behaviors. In the present study, we compared BS- and LI-seekers on physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviors (SB), and examined between-group differences in health-related quality of life (HRQoL), while controlling for PA.Findings: A sample of 34 LI-seekers were matched with 34 BS-seekers on gender, age, BMI, and PA monitor-daily wear time (age: 42.1{$\pm$}10.0 years; BMI: 45.6{$\pm$}6.5 kg/m2). PA and SB were assessed over a 7-day period via the SenseWear Armband (SWA). HRQoL was measured using the SF-36, with scores standardized to a population normal distribution (M=50, SD=10). Participants wore the SWA for 13.7{$\pm$}1.6 h/day. BS-seekers did not differ from LI-seekers on average min/d over the wear period spent in SB (641{$\pm$}117.1 vs. 638.4{$\pm$}133.4, p=0.62) or light (136.4{$\pm$}76.1 vs. 145.5{$\pm$}72.5, p=0.59) and moderate-to-vigorous ({\ensuremath{>}}1-min bouts=36.4{$\pm$}26.2 vs. 40.2{$\pm$}31.3, p=0.59; ?10-min bouts=5.7{$\pm$}8.3 vs. 10.2{$\pm$}17.0, p=0.17) PA. BS-seekers reported significantly lower SF-36 physical functioning (42.4{$\pm$}10.9 vs. 49.0{$\pm$}6.8, p=0.004) and physical component summary (43.9{$\pm$}10.1 vs. 48.9{$\pm$}7.0) scores versus LI-seekers. BS-seeker group status was related to lower physical functioning ({\ensuremath{\beta}}=0.30, p=0.009), independent of gender, age, BMI, and daily PA.Conclusions: Findings suggest that seeking BS versus LI is not related to patterns of PA or SB, and that lower subjective physical functioning is not associated with lower overall PA levels in BS-seekers. {\copyright} 2012 Bond et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir14762, volume = {9}, month = {January}, title = {Why do we need improved mobility technology?}, author = {ML Boninger and RE Cowan}, year = {2012}, pages = {16 -- ?}, journal = {Journal of neuroengineering and rehabilitation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14762/} } @article{pittir29934, volume = {9}, number = {1}, month = {April}, title = {Structures promoting research, training, and technology transfer in mobility: Lessons learned from a visit to European centers}, author = {ML Boninger and RE Cowan and BJ Fregly}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29934/}, abstract = {The purpose of this paper is to describe the education, research, technology transfer, and cooperative models that appear to have the greatest likelihood of successfully tackling the issue of technology to improve mobility. Ideally better models in each of these areas will lead to an increased number of researchers who are more productive. There will be increased international collaboration that will allow for better research with small and/or disadvantaged populations, and the research completed will lead to changes in clinical care that positively impact individuals with impair mobility. {\copyright} 2012 Boninger et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @incollection{pittir16812, booktitle = {DeLisa's Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation: Principles and Practice: Fifth Edition}, volume = {2-2}, month = {March}, title = {Wheelchairs}, author = {ML Boninger and L McClure and RA Cooper and M Schmeler and R Cooper}, year = {2012}, pages = {2097 -- 2118}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16812/} } @unpublished{pittir11762, month = {June}, title = {Intestinal drug absorption, cytochrome P450-mediated metabolism, and transport after small bowel transplantation}, author = {Jennifer J. Bonner}, year = {2012}, keywords = {pharmacokinetics intestinal transplantation small bowel transplantation midazolam CYP3A p-glycoprotein}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11762/}, abstract = {Small bowel allograft recipients require multiple medications after transplant, many of which are orally administered cytochrome P450 3A (CYP3A) and/or p-glycoprotein (p-gp) substrates. A previous study in dogs has shown that surgical manipulation of the intestine, ischemia-reperfusion injury, and activation of the immune system lead to suppression of CYP3A and p-gp function in the early post-transplant period, presumably due to release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, a suppression that diminishes over time. The work presented in this dissertation compares intestinal CYP3A (using midazolam) and p-gp (using fexofenadine) expression and function in small bowel transplant recipients in the early post-transplant period (the first 40 days after surgery, n=16) and later (four to 12 months) post transplant (n=10) as well as with 16 age- and gender-matched healthy control subjects. Oral bioavailability and oral AUC of midazolam were significantly higher in transplant subjects early post-transplant, but no different from controls at four to 12 months post-transplant. The oral AUC ratio of 1?hydroxymidazolam to midazolam, a measure of the extent of CYP3A-mediated metabolism, was significantly lower in the early post-transplant period compared with controls, but at the later period no difference was observed. No difference in fexofenadine AUC was observed between subject groups, and although Tmax of fexofenadine was significantly higher in transplant subjects at both time periods as compared with healthy controls, AUC and Cmax were more influenced by route of administration (jejunostomy tube vs. oral) and transplant subtype (modified multivisceral vs. isolated intestine) than by ileal ABCB1 expression. AUC0-7 and Cmax of oral tacrolimus (a CYP3A/p-gp substrate) were significantly higher early post transplant. Overall this work presents strong evidence for an early immune-mediated suppression of intestinal CYP3A that eventually returns to normal in stable intestinal transplant patients, indicating that bioavailability of highly soluble, highly permeable CYP3A substrates such as midazolam will be significantly increased early post-transplant, requiring the use of caution in their dosing during this time and by extrapolation, during other times of high immune activation, such as acute rejection. These findings have clinical relevance for appropriate medication use in small bowel transplant recipients. } } @unpublished{pittir10736, month = {January}, title = {Utilization of the paramedic certification among emergency medicine undergraduate students}, author = {Jessica Borrell}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Paramedic, Paramedics, EMS, Emergency Medical Services, Recruitment, Retention, Turnover, Job Stress, Career Mobility, Job Satisfaction}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10736/}, abstract = {Background: Recruitment and retention are significant issues in EMS, both in the classroom and the workforce. It appears that some students in the senior class of the Emergency Medicine majors are choosing not to test for their paramedic certification or work in EMS at all. The purpose of this research was to understand why a portion of the students are choosing to undergo the rigorous paramedic training program during their junior years, and then are not using the training during their senior years and beyond. Methods: A survey was administered to the senior class of Emergency Medicine degree seeking students. Results: Significant differences were found between students with more than and less than one year of prior experience in their confidence in BLS skills, their likeliness to remain in the field in 5 years, and their likeliness to remain in the field in 10 years. Significant differences were also found between students with and without the intent to attend graduate school in their certification levels, their likeliness to remain in the field in 5 years, and their likeliness to remain in the field in 10 years. Conclusions: Factors that could be causing this phenomenon include scheduling conflicts, wage, lack of advancement opportunities, and intent to attend graduate school.} } @article{pittir29803, volume = {10}, number = {1}, month = {November}, title = {A novel series of conferences tackling the hurdles confronting the translation of novel cancer immunotherapies}, author = {A Bot and M Ahn and M Bosch and D Brockstedt and LH Butterfield and A Cornforth and R Harrop and WM Kast and R Koya and F Marincola and K Margolin and C McCoy and G Pawelec and J Rothman and T Ramirez-Montagut and J Schlom and P Srivastava and S Wallis and S Walter and E Wang and J Waslif}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of Translational Medicine}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29803/}, abstract = {While there has been significant progress in advancing novel immune therapies to the bedside, much more needs to be done to fully tap into the potential of the immune system. It has become increasingly clear that besides practical and operational challenges, the heterogeneity of cancer and the limited efficacy profile of current immunotherapy platforms are the two main hurdles. Nevertheless, the promising clinical data of several approaches point to a roadmap that carries the promise to significantly advance cancer immunotherapy. A new annual series sponsored by Arrowhead Publishers and Conferences aims at bringing together scientific and business leadership from academia and industry, to identify, share and discuss most current priorities in research and translation of novel immune interventions. This Editorial provides highlights of the first event held earlier this year and outlines the focus of the second meeting to be held in 2013 that will be dedicated to stem cells and immunotherapy. {\copyright} 2012 Bot et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir14171, volume = {7}, number = {4}, month = {April}, title = {Variability of intensive care admission decisions for the very elderly}, author = {A Boumendil and DC Angus and AL Guitonneau and AM Menn and C Ginsburg and K Takun and A Davido and R Masmoudi and B Doumenc and D Pateron and M Garrouste-Orgeas and D Somme and T Simon and P Aegerter and B Guidet}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14171/}, abstract = {Although increasing numbers of very elderly patients are requiring intensive care, few large sample studies have investigated ICU admission of very elderly patients. Data on pre triage by physicians from other specialities is limited. This observational cohort study aims at examining inter-hospital variability of ICU admission rates and its association with patients' outcomes. All patients over 80 years possibly qualifying for ICU admission who presented to the emergency departments (ED) of 15 hospitals in the Paris (France) area during a one-year period were prospectively included in the study. Main outcome measures were ICU eligibility, as assessed by the ED and ICU physicians; in-hospital mortality; and vital and functional status 6 months after the ED visit. 2646 patients (median age 86; interquartile range 83-91) were included in the study. 94\% of participants completed follow-up (n = 2495). 12.4\% (n = 329) of participants were deemed eligible for ICU admission by ED physicians and intensivists. The overall in-hospital and 6-month mortality rates were respectively 27.2\% (n = 717) and 50.7\% (n = 1264). At six months, 57.5\% (n = 1433) of patients had died or had a functional deterioration. Rates of patients deemed eligible for ICU admission ranged from 5.6\% to 38.8\% across the participating centers, and this variability persisted after adjustment for patients' characteristics. Despite this variability, we found no association between level of ICU eligibility and either in-hospital death or six-month death or functional deterioration. In France, the likelihood that a very elderly person will be admitted to an ICU varies widely from one hospital to another. Influence of intensive care admission on patients' outcome remains unclear. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00912600. {\copyright} 2012 Boumendil et al.} } @article{pittir15567, volume = {7}, number = {5}, month = {May}, title = {Glucose-dependent regulation of NR2F2 promoter and influence of SNP-rs3743462 on whole body insulin sensitivity}, author = {M Boutant and OHP Ramos and C Lecoeur and E Vaillant and J Philippe and P Zhang and A Perilhou and B Valcarcel and S Sebert and MR Jarvelin and B Balkau and D Scott and P Froguel and M Vaxillaire and M Vasseur-Cognet}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15567/}, abstract = {Background: The Nuclear Receptor 2F2 (NR2F2/COUP-TFII) heterozygous knockout mice display low basal insulinemia and enhanced insulin sensitivity. We previously established that insulin represses NR2F2 gene expression in pancreatic {\ensuremath{\beta}}-cells. The cis-regulatory region of the NR2F2 promoter is unknown and its influence on metabolism in humans is poorly understood. The present study aimed to identify the regulatory regions that control NR2F2 gene transcription and to evaluate the effect of NR2F2 promoter variation on glucose homeostasis in humans. Methodology/Principal Findings: Regulation of the NR2F2 promoter was assessed using gene reporter assays, ChIP and gel shift experiments. The effects of variation at SNP rs3743462 in NR2F2 on quantitative metabolic traits were studied in two European prospective cohorts. We identified a minimal promoter region that down-regulates NR2F2 expression by attenuating HNF4{\ensuremath{\alpha}} activation in response to high glucose concentrations. Subjects of the French DESIR population, who carried the rs3743462 T-to-C polymorphism, located in the distal glucose-responsive promoter, displayed lower basal insulin levels and lower HOMA-IR index. The C-allele at rs3743462 was associated with increased NR2F2 binding and decreased NR2F2 gene expression. Conclusions/Significance: The rs3743462 polymorphism affects glucose-responsive NR2F2 promoter regulation and thereby may influence whole-body insulin sensitivity, suggesting a role of NR2F2 in the control of glucose homeostasis in humans. {\copyright} 2012 Boutant et al.} } @inproceedings{pittir12490, month = {March}, title = {Design techniques for revealing adolescent memory processes related to information seeking: A preliminary study}, author = {L Bowler and E Mattern}, year = {2012}, pages = {1 -- 9}, journal = {ACM International Conference Proceeding Series}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12490/}, abstract = {This study investigates the effectiveness of design techniques as a means for uncovering metamemory, an attribute of metacognition, and its role in information seeking. A focus group with four adolescents aged 13 and 14 used design techniques such as brainstorming and sketching, metaphorical design and fictional inquiry, to help express their thinking about their own memory processes during the information search process. Results showed that metaphorical design and fictional inquiry are both effective tools for revealing conceptual thinking about metamemory and information seeking. Coupling these techniques with brainstorming and sketching helped the teens to visualize and communicate their ideas. Results from this study will contribute to knowledge about adolescent thinking, metamemory, and information seeking behavior, broaden the range of methodological approaches used in the study of information seeking behavior, and will provide cognitive models for the design of information systems and tools that scaffold metacognition. {\copyright} 2012 ACM.} } @inproceedings{pittir16198, month = {October}, title = {Visual metaphors to model metacognitive strategies that support memory during the process of refinding information}, author = {L Bowler and E Mattern}, year = {2012}, pages = {250 -- 253}, journal = {IIiX 2012 - Proceedings 4th Information Interaction in Context Symposium: Behaviors, Interactions, Interfaces, Systems}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16198/}, abstract = {This paper reports on a study that models the metacognitive thinking of users in relation to memory and refinding information. Twenty-seven participants, in five separate groups ranging in age from 13 to early 30's, sketched visual metaphors representing strategies and interventions that the participants thought would remind them to remember before information was lost, in order to better relocate information. Nine themes emerged: embeddedness, fear and anxiety, interruptions, messiness and discomfort, locked doors and barriers, proximity and adjacency, signs and tattoos, scripts, and finally, the voice. This study started from the premise that design should begin with the user's metaphor as a way to describe the user's mind and ways of thinking and end with the designer mapping the metaphor to the artifact. The long term goal of this work is to move from ideation to implementation, using the users' metaphors of the mind as a basis for the design of information environments that scaffold metacognition during the search process. Copyright {\copyright} 2012 ACM.} } @inproceedings{pittir16200, volume = {49}, number = {1}, month = {December}, title = {Eating disorder questions in Yahoo! Answers: Information, conversation, or reflection?}, author = {L Bowler and JS Oh and D He and E Mattern and W Jeng}, year = {2012}, journal = {Proceedings of the ASIST Annual Meeting}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16200/}, abstract = {This study investigated a particular form of social Q\&A - Yahoo! Answers - and the nature of the questions posed by teens on the topic of eating disorders. The goals of this study were to identify the information needs of questioners in Yahoo! Answers vis {\'a} vis the topic of eating disorders, to create a taxonomy of question types in Yahoo! Answers on the topic of eating disorders, and finally, to contribute to broader models of question-asking in social Q\&A. We achieved these goals through a content analysis of 2230 questions posed in Yahoo! Answers between December 2005 and April 2011. This resulted in a classification scheme with five overarching themes - Seeking Information, Seeking Emotional Support, Seeking Communication, Seeking Self-Expression, and Seeking Help to Complete a Task, and the sub-categories of factual, diagnosis, treatment or intervention, validation, seeking comfort, conversation starters, deep talk, confession, reflection, homework help, and manuscript ideas. Through the investigation of the socio-emotional aspects of social Q\&A, this study enriches our understanding of the affective dimension of health information behavior.} } @inproceedings{pittir13284, booktitle = {Canadian Association for Information Science. 40th Annual Conference. Information in a Local and Global Context}, title = {A Visual Vocabulary for Modeling Metamemory During the Information Search Process}, author = {Leanne Bowler and Eleanor Mattern}, address = {Waterloo, Ontario}, publisher = {Canadian Association for Information Science}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13284/}, abstract = {Abstract: This paper reports on a series of five studies, two with teens and three with adults, that generated visual metaphors for modeling metamemory, the collection of knowledge and beliefs that one holds about one?s own memory, in information seeking. R{\'e}sum{\'e}: Cette communication pr{\'e}sente les r{\'e}sultats d?une s{\'e}rie de cinq {\'e}tudes, deux aupr{\`e}s d?adolescents et trois aupr{\`e}s d?adultes, qui ont g{\'e}n{\'e}r{\'e} des m{\'e}taphores visuelles pour la mod{\'e}lisation de la m{\'e}tam{\'e}moire, l?ensemble des connaissances et des croyances qu?a une personne sur sa propre m{\'e}moire, lors de la recherche d?information.} } @inproceedings{pittir13287, booktitle = {2012 ALISE Annual Conference: Extending our reach, expanding horizons, creating opportunity}, month = {January}, title = {A Framework for Exploring Sustainability in LIS Education}, author = {Leanne Bowler and Eleanor Mattern and Heather Soyka and Jessica Benner}, address = {Dallas, Texas}, publisher = {Association for Library and Information Science Education}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13287/}, abstract = {This paper builds on conversations about sustainability, sustainable design, and its relationship to LIS and does so through the lens of design thinking, a technique for solving complex problems in innovative ways.} } @article{pittir12491, volume = {53}, number = {1}, title = {Multi-Modal Stories: LIS Students Explore Reading, Literacy, and Library Service Through the Lens of ?The 39 Clues?}, author = {Leanne Bowler and Rebecca Morris and I-Ling Cheng and Reham Al-Issa and Brian Romine and Lisa Leiberling}, year = {2012}, pages = {32 -- 48}, journal = {Journal of Education for Library and Information Science}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12491/}, abstract = {The article presents a conceptual framework for exploring multi-modal stories for children using the children?s adventure series, The 39 Clues. The framework is accompanied by concrete examples of student learning experiences, in the form of student reflections on issues related to the convergence of media and the nature of reading and children?s library service in the 21st century. The article begins with a look at the series, The 39 Clues, describing its history and its format. It then provides a framework for exploring some of the issues related to reading The 39 Clues, first, by introducing some concepts from the literature associated with reading in the digital world and then, outlining some of the practical concerns that librarians might have in relation to The 39 Clues. The article then presents the reflections of five students ? one MLIS student and four PhD students ? who considered multi-modal stories in light of their future practice, research, and teaching in LIS. The article concludes by summarizing five over-arching themes that emerged from the students? explorations - reading as a two-track experience, questions about authorship, evaluation skills needed to review multimodal stories, opportunities for information literacy instruction, and access and equity issues.} } @incollection{pittir19034, author = {Leanne Bowler and Valerie Nesset}, booktitle = {The Information Behavior of a New Generation: Children and Teens in the 21st Century}, editor = {Jamshid Beheshti and Andrew Large}, address = {Lanham, Maryland}, title = {Information Literacy}, publisher = {The Scarecrow Press}, pages = {45 -- 63}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Information, literacy, information, behavior, information, seeking, digital, youth}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19034/}, abstract = {Book description from publisher: Has the information behavior of children and youth changed significantly over the last two decades? The Information Behavior of a New Generation: Children and Teens in the 21st Century attempts to answer this question from a variety of viewpoints. Thirteen researchers from educational psychology, computer science, education, and information studies have contributed to eleven chapters on models of information behavior, the cognitive development of youth, information literacy, everyday information behavior, cyber-bullying, gaming in virtual environments, learning labs, social networks, intellectual disabilities, and current and future systems. Whether they are referred to as digital natives, the Google-generation, or generation M, today?s youth are active consumers and avid producers of digital information. Smart phones are the new generation?s communication tools, social networks are their interaction venues, and virtual environments are their new playgrounds. This new digital communication era has prompted researchers from a variety of disciplines to contribute to this book on the information behavior of children and teens. One of the many conclusions that may be drawn from the chapters in the book is that information behavior is a multifaceted phenomenon, evolving alongside the rapid developments in information and communication technologies. The new generation tends to multitask, managing many activities simultaneously, such as scanning for and skimming information, texting brief messages, and posting audio and visual information on social media. While children and teens are tech savvy, they lack certain information and media literacy skills essential in today?s digital environment. For researchers, the authors pose questions for further investigation in the hope that innovative services will be offered and novel systems will be developed to help the new generation. For teachers and information professionals, the authors provide a broad background to assist them with a more in-depth and thorough understanding and appreciation of children?s and teens? information behavior. Table of Contents: Introduction Andrew Large and Jamshid Beheshti Chapter 1: Concepts, Propositions, Models and Theories in Information Behavior Research Charles Cole Chapter 2: Cognitive Development and Information Behavior James P. Byrnes \& Matthew L. Bernacki Chapter 3: Information Literacy Leanne Bowler \& Valerie Nesset Chapter 4: Everyday Life Information Behavior of Young People June Abbas \& Denise E. Agosto Chapter 5: Digital Age Libraries and Youth: Learning Labs, Literacy Leaders, Radical Resources Eliza T. Dresang Chapter 6: Youth and Online Social Networking: What Do We Know So Far? Denise E. agosto\& June Abbas Chapter 7: Gaming and Virtual Environments Giovanni Vincenti Chapter 8: Everyday Life Information in Support of Enhanced Quality of Life for Young Adults with Intellectual Disabilities Dana Hanson-Baldauf Chapter 9: Defining the Line on Cyber-bullying:How youth encounter and distribute demeaning information Shaheen Shariff Chapter 10: Systems Jamshid Beheshti \& Andrew Large Chapter 11: The Future Jamshid Beheshti \& Andrew Large} } @inproceedings{pittir16246, booktitle = {ASIS\&T Annual Meeting: Information, Interaction, Innovation}, month = {October}, title = {Eating Disorder Questions in Yahoo! Answers: Information, Conversation, or Reflection?}, author = {Leanne Bowler and Jung Sun Oh and Daqing He and Eleanor Mattern and Wei Jeng}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Social, Q\&A, Yahoo!, Answers, Eating, Disorders, Health, Information, Behavior, Teens}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16246/}, abstract = {This study investigated a particular form of social Q\&A ? Yahoo! Answers ? and the nature of the questions posed by teens on the topic of eating disorders. The goals of this study were to identify the information needs of questioners in Yahoo! Answers vis {\'a} vis the topic of eating disorders, to create a taxonomy of question types in Yahoo! Answers on the topic of eating disorders, and finally, to contribute to broader models of question-asking in social Q\&A. We achieved these goals through a content analysis of 2230 questions posed in Yahoo! Answers between December 2005 and April 2011. This resulted in a classification scheme with five overarching themes - Seeking Information, Seeking Emotional Support, Seeking Communication, Seeking Self-Expression, and Seeking Help to Complete a Task, and the sub-categories of factual, diagnosis, treatment or intervention, validation, seeking comfort, conversation starters, deep talk, confession, reflection, homework help, and manuscript ideas. Through the investigation of the socio-emotional aspects of social Q\&A, this study enriches our understanding of the affective dimension of health information behavior.} } @unpublished{pittir13752, month = {August}, title = {A Study of Prospective Secondary Mathematics Teachers? Evolving Understanding of Reasoning-and-Proving}, author = {Justin D Boyle}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Reasoning and Proof Preservice mathematics teacher learning mathematics teacher education mathematics teacher knowledge conceptions of proof selecting reasoning-and-proving tasks }, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13752/}, abstract = { Proof is a foundational mathematical activity that has been underrepresented in school mathematics. The recently adopted Common Core State Standards in Mathematics includes eight process standards, several of which promote the inclusion of reasoning and proof across all grades, courses, and students. If students are to reach the expectations recommended by mathematics researchers and explicitly identified in the Common Core State Standards, then students will need opportunities to construct and validate proof arguments. However, secondary students find it challenging to validate arguments and produce proofs and do not know what a mathematical proof is. Furthermore, those preparing to be secondary mathematics teachers in undergraduate mathematics courses are unable to construct proofs on a consistent basis, and practicing secondary teachers possess a limited conception of proof. A six-week graduate-level course was taught with the purpose of increasing practicing mathematics teachers? knowledge, expanding their conceptions of reasoning and proof, and preparing them to create similar experiences for their students. Research was conducted on the course to study the participants? evolving understanding of reasoning-and-proving. The results suggest that: 1) the course was successful at expanding the participants conception of proof; 2) the prospective teachers encountered five challenges when asked to write proofs that are at the secondary mathematics level; 3) specific types of arguments were challenging for participants to classify as proofs or non-proofs; and 4) even though the participants were skillful in selecting high-level tasks that they could modify to include reasoning-and-proving opportunities, more work is needed to integrate such task across any secondary curricula. } } @unpublished{pittir11919, month = {June}, title = {TRANSNATIONAL CONVERSIONS: GREEK CATHOLIC MIGRANTS AND RUSSKY ORTHODOX CONVERSION MOVEMENTS IN AUSTRIA-HUNGARY, RUSSIA, AND THE AMERICAS (1890-1914)}, author = {Joel Brady}, year = {2012}, keywords = {migration "religious conversion" transnationalism "World War I origins" "Russian Orthodox Church" "Greek Catholic Church"}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11919/}, abstract = {Beginning in the 1890s, communities of migrants from Austria-Hungary, living and laboring in the United States, converted from one form of Eastern Christianity, known as Greek Catholicism, to another, called Russky (or Russian) Orthodoxy. In doing so, they also underwent ethnic, national, and racial conversions as ?Rusyns,? ?Russians,? ?Ukrainians,? ?Hungarians,? ?Slavs,? and ?Whites.? Soon, migrants also began converting en masse in Canada, Brazil, and Argentina. Ultimately, the conversions, likely numbering 100,000 by 1914, spread to migrants? villages of origin in the Austro-Hungarian regions of Galicia and Subcarpathia, through remigrations and correspondence. For twenty-five years, conversion and counter-conversion movements in each of these regions interacted with and mutually influenced one another, in the context of transnational migration. As a consequence of these transnational conversions, a great war broke out, and not only in a metaphorical sense. For in addition to the protracted, heated, and periodically violent battles erupting between converts and opponents of conversion in all affected regions, these multi-continental ethnoreligious shifts also cast sparks, which contributed substantially to the outburst of that great global conflagration, beginning in September 1914, called World War I. Diplomatic tensions arose as statesmen at the highest governmental levels in Austria-Hungary, Russia, and Germany, as well as the major Great Power presses, vied with one another to define the conversions: either as Russian political machinations among ?Ruthenians,? justifying future annexation of Austro-Hungarian territories inhabited by presumed ?Russians?{--}identifiable by Orthodox religion{--}or as mere religious movements among Russia?s innocent, co-national expatriates, persecuted by the Austro-Hungarian regime. The same statesmen in July 1914 engaged in diplomatic hostilities surrounding Serbia, but the preceding years, months, and weeks, devoted to the issue of converting Greek Catholics, had helped set the stage for the July Crisis. Because the ?East European? conversions resulted primarily through transatlantic migration, this study argues for the ?American? origins of the Great War. In its simplest, most reductive, and unqualified form, it suggests that, because a migrant coal miner in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania decided to attend a different church one day, World War I happened.} } @article{pittir14165, volume = {7}, number = {3}, month = {March}, title = {Sex matters during adolescence: Testosterone-related cortical thickness maturation differs between boys and girls}, author = {JE Bramen and JA Hranilovich and RE Dahl and J Chen and C Rosso and EE Forbes and ID Dinov and CM Worthman and ER Sowell}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14165/}, abstract = {Age-related changes in cortical thickness have been observed during adolescence, including thinning in frontal and parietal cortices, and thickening in the lateral temporal lobes. Studies have shown sex differences in hormone-related brain maturation when boys and girls are age-matched, however, because girls mature 1-2 years earlier than boys, these sex differences could be confounded by pubertal maturation. To address puberty effects directly, this study assessed sex differences in testosterone-related cortical maturation by studying 85 boys and girls in a narrow age range and matched on sexual maturity. We expected that testosterone-by-sex interactions on cortical thickness would be observed in brain regions known from the animal literature to be high in androgen receptors. We found sex differences in associations between circulating testosterone and thickness in left inferior parietal lobule, middle temporal gyrus, calcarine sulcus, and right lingual gyrus, all regions known to be high in androgen receptors. Visual areas increased with testosterone in boys, but decreased in girls. All other regions were more impacted by testosterone levels in girls than boys. The regional pattern of sex-by-testosterone interactions may have implications for understanding sex differences in behavior and adolescent-onset neuropsychiatric disorders. {\copyright} 2012 Bramen et al.} } @incollection{pittir23896, author = {Pepijn Brandon}, series = {Contractor State Group. International Congress}, booktitle = {The contractor state and its implications, 1659-1815}, editor = {Richard Harding and Sergio Solbes Ferri}, address = {Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands}, title = {Global power, local connections: The Dutch admiralties and their supply networks}, publisher = {Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Servicio de Publicaciones}, year = {2012}, pages = {57 -- 80}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/23896/} } @article{pittir17346, volume = {4}, number = {1}, title = {Making the case for uniformity in professional state licensure requirements.}, author = {Janice A Brannon and Ellen R Cohn and Jana Cason}, year = {2012}, pages = {41 -- 46}, journal = {Int J Telerehabil}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17346/}, abstract = {Telehealth, the use of communication and information technologies to deliver health services, was initially envisioned as a way for persons in rural or remote settings to receive otherwise unavailable healthcare services. Now, in addition to overcoming personnel shortages for underserved populations, telehealth shows promise in meeting the needs of a constantly mobile U.S. society and workforce. Fortunately, telerehabilitation can meet the needs of a mobile society and workforce by enabling continuity of care for individuals who are out-of-town, on vacation, in temporary residence as a university student, or on business travel. Unfortunately, outdated legislative and regulatory policies and inhospitable infrastructures currently stand in the way of a seamless continuum of care. In 2010, the American Telemedicine Association's Telerehabilitation Special Interest Group (TR SIG) convened a License Portability Sub-Committee to explore ways to diminish barriers for state licensure portability with a particular focus on physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and audiology. In 2011, the Subcommittee published a factsheet (1) that detailed the challenges and potential solutions that surround the difficult issue of licensure portability. Concurrently, the American Telemedicine Association is advocating for national reform of professional licensure. (2) At the heart of all licensure requirements is the ability to determine who should be granted the authority to practice in a particular profession. This is done by focusing on educational, examination and behavioral requirements that are deemed the minimum necessary to protect the public from harm. States, however, with whom authority for licensure of health professionals rests, have independently defined those minimum requirements. This approach has led to a myriad of requirements that vary from state to state. Licensure portability will best succeed when variability between licensure requirements is minimized and an efficient licensure process exists. In this paper, these two critical factors for licensure portability are referred to as "licensure requirements" and "the credentialing process." Currently the variability between both of these factors is different between professions as well as between jurisdictions. To find the best solution to licensure portability, it is critical to determine which of these two elements create significant barriers for licensure mobility. This document outlines a method for the professions to begin collecting data to pinpoint the areas where agreement and variations exist in licensure requirements and processes between states. Such information will inform efforts towards uniformity.} } @article{pittir15590, volume = {7}, number = {7}, month = {July}, title = {Innate immune activation by inhaled lipopolysaccharide, independent of oxidative stress, exacerbates silica-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice}, author = {DM Brass and JC Spencer and Z Li and E Potts-Kant and SM Reilly and MK Dunkel and JD Latoche and RL Auten and JW Hollingsworth and CL Fattman}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15590/}, abstract = {Acute exacerbations of pulmonary fibrosis are characterized by rapid decrements in lung function. Environmental factors that may contribute to acute exacerbations remain poorly understood. We have previously demonstrated that exposure to inhaled lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induces expression of genes associated with fibrosis. To address whether exposure to LPS could exacerbate fibrosis, we exposed male C57BL/6 mice to crystalline silica, or vehicle, followed 28 days later by LPS or saline inhalation. We observed that mice receiving both silica and LPS had significantly more total inflammatory cells, more whole lung lavage MCP-1, MIP-2, KC and IL-1{\ensuremath{\beta}}, more evidence of oxidative stress and more total lung hydroxyproline than mice receiving either LPS alone, or silica alone. Blocking oxidative stress with N-acetylcysteine attenuated whole lung inflammation but had no effect on total lung hydroxyproline. These observations suggest that exposure to innate immune stimuli, such as LPS in the environment, may exacerbate stable pulmonary fibrosis via mechanisms that are independent of inflammation and oxidative stress. {\copyright} 2012 Brass et al.} } @article{pittir15602, volume = {7}, number = {7}, month = {July}, title = {MMP-9 cleaves SP-D and abrogates its innate immune functions in vitro}, author = {PE Bratcher and NM Weathington and HJ Nick and PL Jackson and RJ Snelgrove and A Gaggar}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15602/}, abstract = {Possession of a properly functioning innate immune system in the lung is vital to prevent infections due to the ongoing exposure of the lung to pathogens. While mechanisms of pulmonary innate immunity have been well studied, our knowledge of how these systems are altered in disease states, leading to increased susceptibility to infections, is limited. One innate immune protein in the lung, the pulmonary collectin SP-D, has been shown to be important in innate immune defense, as well as clearance of allergens and apoptotic cells. MMP-9 is a protease with a wide variety of substrates, and has been found to be dysregulated in a myriad of lung diseases ranging from asthma to cystic fibrosis; in many of these conditions, there are decreased levels of SP-D. Our results indicate that MMP-9 is able to cleave SP-D in vitro and this cleavage leads to loss of its innate immune functions, including its abilities to aggregate bacteria and increase phagocytosis by mouse alveolar macrophages. However, MMP-9-cleaved SP-D was still detected in a solid-phase E. coli LPS-binding assay, while NE-cleaved SP-D was not. In addition, MMP-9 seems to cleave SP-D much more efficiently than NE at physiological levels of calcium. Previous studies have shown that in several diseases, including cystic fibrosis and asthma, patients have increased expression of MMP-9 in the lungs as well as decreased levels of intact SP-D. As patients suffering from many of the diseases in which MMP-9 is over-expressed can be more susceptible to pulmonary infections, it is possible that MMP-9 cleavage of SP-D may contribute to this phenotype.} } @article{pittir16174, volume = {116}, number = {3}, month = {January}, author = {KJ Breen and AF Deblase and TL Guasco and VK Voora and KD Jordan and T Nagata and MA Johnson}, title = {Bottom-up view of water network-mediated CO {\ensuremath{<}}inf{\ensuremath{>}}2{\ensuremath{<}}/inf{\ensuremath{>}} reduction using cryogenic cluster ion spectroscopy and direct dynamics simulations}, journal = {Journal of Physical Chemistry A}, pages = {903 -- 912}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16174/}, abstract = {The transition states of a chemical reaction in solution are generally accessed through exchange of thermal energy between the solvent and the reactants. As such, an ensemble of reacting systems approaches the transition state configuration of reactant and surrounding solvent in an incoherent manner that does not lend itself to direct experimental observation. Here we describe how gas-phase cluster chemistry can provide a detailed picture of the microscopic mechanics at play when a network of six water molecules mediates the trapping of a highly reactive "hydrated electron" onto a neutral CO 2 molecule to form a radical anion. The exothermic reaction is triggered from a metastable intermediate by selective excitation of either the reactant CO 2 or the water network, which is evidenced by the evaporative decomposition of the product cluster. Ab initio molecular dynamics simulations of energized CO 2?(H 2O) 6- clusters are used to elucidate the nature of the network deformations that mediate intracluster electron capture, thus revealing the detailed solvent fluctuations implicit in the Marcus theory for electron-transfer kinetics in solution. {\copyright} 2011 American Chemical Society.} } @article{pittir14142, volume = {7}, number = {2}, month = {February}, title = {Zidovudine (AZT) monotherapy selects for the A360V mutation in the connection domain of HIV-1 reverse transcriptase}, author = {JH Brehm and Y Scott and DL Koontz and S Perry and S Hammer and D Katzenstein and JW Mellors and N Sluis-Cremer}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14142/}, abstract = {Background: We previously demonstrated in vitro that zidovudine (AZT) selects for A371V in the connection domain and Q509L in ribonuclease H (RNase H) domain of HIV-1 reverse transcriptase (RT) which, together with the thymidine analog mutations D67N, K70R and T215F, confer greater than 100-fold AZT resistance. The goal of the current study was to determine whether AZT monotherapy in HIV-1 infected patients also selects the A371V, Q509L or other mutations in the C-terminal domains of HIV-1 RT. Methodology/Principal Findings: Full-length RT sequences in plasma obtained pre- and post-therapy were compared in 23 participants who received AZT monotherapy from the AIDS Clinical Trials Group study 175. Five of the 23 participants reached a primary study endpoint. Mutations significantly associated with AZT monotherapy included K70R (p = 0.003) and T215Y (p = 0.013) in the polymerase domain of HIV-1 RT, and A360V (p = 0.041) in the connection domain of HIV-1 RT. HIV-1 drug susceptibility assays demonstrated that A360V, either alone or in combination with thymidine analog mutations, decreased AZT susceptibility in recombinant viruses containing participant-derived full-length RT sequences or site-directed mutant RT. Biochemical studies revealed that A360V enhances the AZT-monophosphate excision activity of purified RT by significantly decreasing the frequency of secondary RNase H cleavage events that reduce the RNA/DNA duplex length and promote template/primer dissociation. Conclusions: The A360V mutation in the connection domain of RT was selected in HIV-infected individuals that received AZT monotherapy and contributed to AZT resistance. {\copyright} 2012 Brehm et al.} } @unpublished{pittir13505, month = {September}, title = {Overpopulation or Over Population? A Burkean Analysis of Transformations and Continuities in the Rhetoric of ?Human Population Growth? at the United Nations (1974-2004)}, author = {Matthew/P Brigham}, year = {2012}, keywords = {rhetoric, United Nations, communication, overpopulation, international relations, argument}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13505/}, abstract = {Despite the prominence of the issue across time, scholarly accounts of population rhetoric remain limited. Those analyses that do respond to this current of public argument focus overwhelmingly on actors such as Paul Ehrlich and R. Thomas Malthus, and on extreme instantiations of population rhetoric and policy, such as eugenics and China?s one-child policy. Missing in this body of scholarship is a sustained treatment of population rhetoric on a global stage, as it has occurred at United Nations conferences for over 30 years. This under-appreciated body of texts yields a global vision of population. Beyond the reductionist approaches to population that draw scorn from scholars, activists, and policymakers alike, the consensus documents produced at Bucharest (1974), Mexico City (1984), Cairo (1994), and the follow-ups to Cairo (1999 and 2004) take into consideration the complex web of factors that feed into population and that are fed by population. By employing a model of rhetorical criticism that focuses on a ?close reading? of the final consensus documents produced by each conference, this study charts both the transformations of public argument across time while also paying special attention to the continuities in these texts. This project aims to benefit multiple scholarly communities, including environmental studies, international relations, public argument, and rhetorical theory and criticism, as well as to policymakers, NGOs, and activists focused on population issues. I consider whether it is meaningful to continue to talk about ?population? as an issue separate from a web of interconnected factors, and whether we are in fact beyond discussions of overpopulation to the point where we have moved past and are thus over population. Alongside this topical question, this project opens the conversation as to whether UN conference documents, and related documents, constitute a unique rhetorical genre, and if so, what some characteristics of this genre might be.} } @article{pittir29821, volume = {6}, number = {S6}, month = {October}, author = {John Brothers and Rebecca Kusko and Gang Liu and Lingqi Luo and Brenda Juan Guardela and John Tedrow and Yuriy Alekesyev and Ivana V Yang and Mick Correll and Mark Geraci and John Quackenbush and Frank Sciurba and Paola Sebastiani and Marc Lenburg and Naftali Kaminski and David A Schwartz and Avrum Spira and Jennifer Beane}, title = {Moving beyond gene expression: identification of lung-disease-associated novel transcripts and alternative splicing by RNA sequencing}, publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC}, journal = {BMC Proceedings}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29821/} } @article{pittir17344, volume = {17}, number = {4}, month = {April}, title = {Sig Spotlight: Membership in SIG 18, telepractice, more than doubles in a year}, author = {J Brown and E Cohn}, year = {2012}, journal = {ASHA Leader}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17344/} } @article{pittir29912, volume = {7}, number = {1}, month = {August}, title = {A qualitative study of anticipated barriers and facilitators to the implementation of nurse-delivered alcohol screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment for hospitalized patients in a Veterans Affairs medical center}, author = {LM Broyles and KL Rodriguez and KL Kraemer and MA Sevick and PA Price and AJ Gordon}, year = {2012}, journal = {Addiction Science and Clinical Practice}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29912/}, abstract = {Background: Unhealthy alcohol use includes the spectrum of alcohol consumption from risky drinking to alcohol use disorders. Routine alcohol screening, brief intervention (BI) and referral to treatment (RT) are commonly endorsed for improving the identification and management of unhealthy alcohol use in outpatient settings. However, factors which might impact screening, BI, and RT implementation in inpatient settings, particularly if delivered by nurses, are unknown, and must be identified to effectively plan randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of nurse-delivered BI. The purpose of this study was to identify the potential barriers and facilitators associated with nurse-delivered alcohol screening, BI and RT for hospitalized patients. Methods: We conducted audio-recorded focus groups with nurses from three medical-surgical units at a large urban Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Transcripts were analyzed using modified grounded theory techniques to identify key themes regarding anticipated barriers and facilitators to nurse-delivered screening, BI and RT in the inpatient setting. Results: A total of 33 medical-surgical nurses (97\% female, 83\% white) participated in one of seven focus groups. Nurses consistently anticipated the following barriers to nurse-delivered screening, BI, and RT for hospitalized patients: (1) lack of alcohol-related knowledge and skills; (2) limited interdisciplinary collaboration and communication around alcohol-related care; (3) inadequate alcohol assessment protocols and poor integration with the electronic medical record; (4) concerns about negative patient reaction and limited patient motivation to address alcohol use; (5) questionable compatibility of screening, BI and RT with the acute care paradigm and nursing role; and (6) logistical issues (e.g., lack of time/privacy). Suggested facilitators of nurse-delivered screening, BI, and RT focused on provider- and system-level factors related to: (1) improved provider knowledge, skills, communication, and collaboration; (2) expanded processes of care and nursing roles; and (3) enhanced electronic medical record features. Conclusions: RCTs of nurse-delivered alcohol BI for hospitalized patients should include consideration of the following elements: comprehensive provider education on alcohol screening, BI and RT; record-keeping systems which efficiently document and plan alcohol-related care; a hybrid model of implementation featuring active roles for interdisciplinary generalists and specialists; and ongoing partnerships to facilitate generation of additional evidence for BI efficacy in hospitalized patients.} } @unpublished{pittir13489, month = {October}, title = {The Normative Standard of Mandarin in Taiwan: An Analysis of Variation in Metapragmatic Discourse}, author = {Brian Brubaker}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Language Ideologies Taiwanese Mandarin Taiwan Guoyu Taiwanese Language and Identity}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13489/}, abstract = {It has been argued for many years that a new standard of Mandarin is developing within Taiwan, distinct from the official form based on the Beijing pronunciation, as well as the non-standard vernacular, Taiwan-guoyu. The parameters by which this new standard, Taiwanese Mandarin, may be recognized, however, and the extent to which it exists in common perceptions, remain largely unknown. In order to better describe this variety, interviews were conducted in the north and south of Taiwan to elicit metapragmatic reports on the linguistic characteristics of highly standard and non-standard speech to mark opposing ends of a continuum of standardness. The inner area of this spectrum reveals the shape of a normative standard of Mandarin in common language ideologies. A quantitative sociolinguistic analysis was also conducted to measure usage of the segments elicited in these reports. Participants indicated that the prescribed form of the retroflex initials [??], [???], and [?] creates distance within interaction and marks speakers as ?weird? or ?strange?. Though it represents the standardized form, it is socially disfavored in general usage, thus marking one end of the continuum. In contrast, deletion of the labial feature in [w], [f], and [y], was most highly associated with a crude lack of sophistication, ruralness, and low education, marking the other end of the continuum. In the quantitative analyses, the non-prescribed labial segments were associated with low SES, older age, and factors of local identity. The prescribed retroflex correlated with higher SES, and northern identity, and showed a change over time toward more prescribed usage. The youngest age category, however, showed a reversal of this trend. An intermediate category of the retroflex initials patterned very similarly to the prescribed form, however it was free of negative qualitative associations. Thus Taiwanese Mandarin is marked by the absence of prescribed retroflex and non-prescribed labial forms, and presence of the intermediate retroflex. Some also questioned the basic existence of a ?standard? Mandarin in Taiwan, or explicitly affirmed the notion of a Taiwanese Mandarin. It is evident that the nature of standard Mandarin in Taiwan is in a state of sharp ideological and behavioral change.} } @article{pittir38847, volume = {2012}, title = {Children?s Tolerance of Word-Form Variation}, author = {Paul R. Bruening and Patricia J. Brooks and Louis Alfieri and Vera Kempe and Ineta Daba{\vs}inskien{\.e}}, publisher = {Hindawi Limited}, year = {2012}, pages = {1--12}, journal = {Child Development Research}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/38847/}, abstract = {How much morphological variation can children tolerate when identifying familiar words? This is an important question in the context of the acquisition of richly inflected languages where identical word forms occur far less frequently than in English. To address this question, we compared children?s (N=96, mean age 4;1, range 2;11?5;1) and adults? (N=96, mean age 21 years) tolerance of word-onset modifications (e.g., for stug: wug and wastug) and pseudoaffixes (e.g., kostug and stugko) in a label-extension task. Word-form modifications were repeated within each experiment to establish productive inflectional patterns. In two experiments, children and adults exhibited similar strategies: they were more tolerant of prefixes (wastug) than substitutions of initial consonants (wug), and more tolerant of suffixes (stugko) than prefixes (kostug). The findings point to word-learning strategies as being flexible and adaptive to morphological patterns in languages.} } @incollection{pittir13321, booktitle = {Adaptive Technologies for Training and Education}, month = {January}, title = {Adaptive hypermedia for education and training}, author = {P Brusilovsky}, year = {2012}, pages = {46 -- 66}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13321/}, abstract = {Adaptive hypermedia (AH) is an alternative to the traditional, one-size-fits-all approach in the development of hypermedia systems. AH systems build a model of the goals, preferences, and knowledge of each individual user; this model is used throughout the interaction with the user to adapt to the needs of that particular user (Brusilovsky, 1996b). For example, a student in an adaptive educational hypermedia system will be given a presentation that is adapted specifically to his or her knowledge of the subject (De Bra \& Calvi, 1998; Hothi, Hall, \& Sly, 2000) as well as a suggested set of the most relevant links to proceed further (Brusilovsky, Eklund, \& Schwarz, 1998; Kavcic, 2004). An adaptive electronic encyclopedia will personalize the content of an article to augment the user's existing knowledge and interests (Bontcheva \& Wilks, 2005; Milosavljevic, 1997). A museum guide will adapt the presentation about every visited object to the user's individual path through the museum (Oberlander et al., 1998; Stock et al., 2007). Adaptive hypermedia belongs to the class of user-adaptive systems (Schneider-Hufschmidt, K{\"u}hme, \& Malinowski, 1993). A distinctive feature of an adaptive system is an explicit user model that represents user knowledge, goals, and interests, as well as other features that enable the system to adapt to different users with their own specific set of goals. An adaptive system collects data for the user model from various sources that can include implicitly observing user interaction and explicitly requesting direct input from the user. The user model is applied to provide an adaptation effect, that is, tailor interaction to different users in the same context. In different kinds of adaptive systems, adaptation effects could vary greatly. In AH systems, it is limited to three major adaptation technologies: adaptive content selection, adaptive navigation support, and adaptive presentation. The first of these three technologies comes from the fields of adaptive information retrieval (IR) and intelligent tutoring systems (ITS). When the user searches for information, the system adaptively selects and prioritizes the most relevant items (Brajnik, Guida, \& Tasso, 1987; Brusilovsky, 1992b).} } @inproceedings{pittir19381, month = {November}, title = {The other side of the social web: A taxonomy for social information access}, author = {P Brusilovsky}, year = {2012}, pages = {1 -- 4}, journal = {WebMedia'12 - Proceedings of the 2012 Brazilian Symposium on Multimedia and the Web}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19381/}, abstract = {The power of the modern Web, which is frequently called the Social Web or Web 2.0, is frequently traced to the power of users as contributors of various kinds of contents through Wikis, blogs, and resource sharing sites. However, the community power impacts not only the production of Web content, but also the access to all kinds of Web content. A number of research groups worldwide explore what we call social information access techniques that help users get to the right information using "collective wisdom" distilled from actions of those who worked with this information earlier. This invited talk offers a brief introduction into this important research stream and reviews recent works on social information access performed at the University of Pittsburgh's PAWS Lab lead by the author. Copyright {\copyright} 2012 by the Association for Computing Machinery, Inc. (ACM).} } @unpublished{pittir11924, month = {May}, title = {The Fourteenth Amendment's protection scope over sexual orientation: a comprehensive legal analysis}, author = {Mercedes Bugallo}, year = {2012}, keywords = {rational-basis test, heightened scrutiny}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11924/}, abstract = {This thesis provides an in-depth legal analysis of the protection status granted to minority groups by the Supreme Court under the Fourteenth Amendment. It sets forth a thorough definition of what a suspect class is and an explanation of its requirements, with the final aim of analyzing sexual orientation within the boundaries of such definition. There are four main points to consider when identifying a suspect class: a history of purposeful discrimination, political powerlessness, an immutable and uncontrollable trait, and incorrect stereotypes. If all the indicia of suspectness are met then the group is considered a suspect class and if only some of the criteria are met then it is considered a Quasi-suspect class. This thesis will prove that sexual orientation is at least a Quasi suspect class by fulfilling most of the requirements in an above satisfactory fashion, although the argument could perfectly be made for full-suspectness status if the Court were to find them all sufficient. It also comprehensively compares U.S. court cases throughout, and finally presents a side-by-side review of U.S. Supreme Court?s decisions on gender and sexual orientation.} } @article{pittir22517, volume = {18}, month = {February}, title = {Futurismo arcaizante: descolonizaci{\'o}n y anarcofeminismo en De cuando en cuando Saturnina}, author = {Hannah A. Burdette}, year = {2012}, pages = {115 -- 133}, journal = {Bolivian Studies Journal/Revista de Estudios Bolivianos}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22517/} } @article{pittir14238, volume = {43}, number = {1}, month = {July}, author = {LE Burke and MA Styn and SM Sereika and MB Conroy and L Ye and K Glanz and MA Sevick and LJ Ewing}, title = {Using mHealth technology to enhance self-monitoring for weight loss: A randomized trial}, journal = {American Journal of Preventive Medicine}, pages = {20 -- 26}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14238/}, abstract = {Background: Self-monitoring for weight loss has traditionally been performed with paper diaries. Technologic advances could reduce the burden of self-monitoring and provide feedback to enhance adherence. Purpose: To determine if self-monitoring diet using a PDA only or the PDA with daily tailored feedback (PDA+feedback [FB]), was superior to using a paper diary on weight loss and maintenance. Design: The Self-Monitoring and Recording Using Technology (SMART) Trial was a 24-month randomized clinical trial; participants were randomly assigned to one of three self-monitoring groups. Setting/participants: From 2006 to 2008, a total of 210 overweight/obese adults (84.8\% female, 78.1\% white) were recruited from the community. Data were analyzed in 2011. Intervention: Participants received standard behavioral treatment for weight loss that included dietary and physical activity goals, encouraged the use of self-monitoring, and was delivered in group sessions. Main outcome measures: Percentage weight change at 24 months, adherence to self-monitoring over time. Results: Study retention was 85.6\%. The mean percentage weight loss at 24 months was not different among groups (paper diary: -1.94\%, 95\% CI = -3.88, 0.01; PDA: -1.38\%, 95\% CI= -3.38, 0.62; PDA+FB: -2.32\%, 95\% CI= -4.29, -0.35); only the PDA+FB group (p=0.02) demonstrated a significant loss. For adherence to self-monitoring, there was a time-by-treatment group interaction between the combined PDA groups and the paper diary group (p=0.03) but no difference between PDA and PDA+FB groups (p=0.49). Across all groups, weight loss was greater for those who were adherent {\ensuremath{<}}60\% versus {\ensuremath{<}}30\% of the time (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.001). Conclusions: PDA+FB use resulted in a small weight loss at 24 months; PDA use resulted in greater adherence to dietary self-monitoring over time. However, for sustained weight loss, adherence to self-monitoring is more important than the method used to self-monitor. A daily feedback message delivered remotely enhanced adherence and improved weight loss, which suggests that technology can play a role in improving weight loss. Trial registration: This study is registered at clinicaltrials.gov NCT00277771. {\copyright} 2012 American Journal of Preventive Medicine.} } @article{pittir16179, volume = {12}, number = {6}, month = {June}, author = {RW Busuttil and LG De Carlis and PV Mihaylov and B Gridelli and LR Fassati and TE Starzl}, title = {The first report of orthotopic liver transplantation in the Western world}, journal = {American Journal of Transplantation}, pages = {1385 -- 1387}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16179/}, abstract = {Until the present time, the first experimental liver transplant which led to the development of human liver transplantation is attributed to C. Stuart Welch who performed a heterotopic transplant in the canine species in 1955. In 1956, Jack Cannon is credited with the first animal orthotopic liver transplant although the species was not disclosed. This report is intended to set the historical record straight by acknowledging that Vittorio Staudacher in 1952 was the first to perform a liver transplant in a large animal model. {\copyright} Copyright 2012 The American Society of Transplantation and the American Society of Transplant Surgeons.} } @article{pittir24256, volume = {69}, number = {10}, month = {October}, author = {AL Byers and E Vittinghoff and LY Lui and T Hoang and DG Blazer and KE Covinsky and KE Ensrud and JA Cauley and TA Hillier and L Fredman and K Yaffe}, title = {Twenty-year depressive trajectories among older women}, journal = {Archives of General Psychiatry}, pages = {1073 -- 1079}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/24256/}, abstract = {Context: Despite the frequent occurrence of depressive symptoms among older adults, especially women, little is known about the long-term course of late-life depressive symptoms. Objective: To characterize the natural course of depressive symptoms among older women (from the young old to the oldest old) followed up for almost 20 years. Design: Using latent-class growth-curve analysis, we analyzed women enrolled in an ongoing prospective cohort study (1988 through 2009). Setting: Clinic sites in Baltimore, Maryland; Minneapolis, Minnesota; the Monongahela Valley near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and Portland, Oregon. Participants: We studied 7240 community-dwelling women 65 years or older. Main Outcome Measure: The Geriatric Depression Scale short form (score range, 0-15) was used to routinely assess depressive symptoms during the follow-up period. Results: Among older women, we identified 4 latent classes during 20 years, with the predicted probabilities of group membership totaling 27.8\% with minimal depressive symptoms, 54.0\% with persistently low depressive symptoms, 14.8\% with increasing depressive symptoms, and 3.4\% with persistently high depressive symptoms. In an adjusted model for latent class membership, odds ratios (ORs) for belonging in the increasing depressive symptoms and persistently high depressive symptoms classes, respectively, compared with a group having minimal depressive symptoms were substantially and significantly (P {\ensuremath{<}} .05) elevated for the following variables: baseline smoking (ORs, 4.69 and 7.97), physical inactivity (ORs, 2.11 and 2.78), small social network (ORs, 3.24 and 6.75), physical impairment (ORs, 8.11 and 16.43), myocardial infarction (ORs, 2.09 and 2.41), diabetes mellitus (ORs, 2.98 and 3.03), and obesity (ORs, 1.86 and 2.90). Conclusions: During 20 years, almost 20\% of older women experienced persistently high depressive symptoms or increasing depressive symptoms. In addition, these women had more comorbidities, physical impairment, and negative lifestyle factors at baseline. These associations support the need for intervention and prevention strategies to reduce depressive symptoms into the oldest-old years. {\copyright}2012 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.} } @unpublished{pittir12832, month = {September}, title = {Modeling the WHO-EPI Vaccine Supply Chain in Low and Middle Income Countries}, author = {SHENG-I CHEN}, year = {2012}, keywords = {supply chain, vaccine delivery, logistics, distribution network, linear programming, capacity expansion, disease modeling, passive cold device}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12832/}, abstract = {The enormous economic impact of diseases has drawn global attention and controlling diseases through a vaccination program is one of the highest priorities in healthcare decision making. However, successful implementation of vaccination programs must also consider distribution network design and logistical feasibility. In this research we address this issue via three broad contributions. First, we develop a generic mathematical programming model of the WHO-EPI vaccine distribution network in low and middle countries, and adapt the model to answer actual vaccine logistics questions such as assessing the feasibility of new vaccine introductions, changing the distribution network design, and changing the vial size of an existing vaccine using the West African country of Niger to illustrate this. Second, we explore integrating vaccine distribution decisions with immunization policies by developing a framework for linking the vaccine supply chain model with a disease propagation model. The framework is used to assess measles interventions in Niger in order to help policy makers decide on an appropriate vaccination policy. Third, we address the significant challenge of increasing the clinic visit rate, especially in areas with limited health care resources and high-risk populations. To do this we explore the application of passive cold devices for vaccine delivery at remote vaccination sites. Such mobile devices are easy to deploy at locations that are off the electricity grid or have an unstable energy supply, and they can also be used to support outreach vaccinations to families in rural areas. We develop a computational model to evaluate the cost effectiveness of different device designs for vaccine delivery in real world distribution networks. We also conduct sensitivity analysis to determine which design is most robust with respect to fluctuations in cost performance.} } @unpublished{pittir13517, month = {September}, title = {Sex Hormone Modulation of HHV-8 Transcription}, author = {TEGWINDE REBECA COMPAORE}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Human Herpesvirus 8}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13517/}, abstract = {Human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) seroprevalence is similar in men and women, but Kaposi?s sarcoma (KS) is mostly seen in men, suggesting that sex hormones play a role in KS development. Previous work from our laboratory has identified potential estrogen response elements (EREs) within several regulatory genes? promoters such as K8 (KB-Zip), ORF50 and ORF49. The HHV-8 EREs were found to bind the alpha estrogen receptor. The functionality of the K8 EREs was demonstrated using transient expression assays. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that estrogen modulates the transcription of HHV-8 during latency or reactivation. BCBL-1 cells are a B established from a pleural effusion lymphoma that is HHV-8 positive and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) negative were used in the current study. Trex-BCBL-1 cells contain a doxycycline inducible ORF50 gene. MCF-7 cells are well studied breast cancer cell line. Production of infectious virus was determined using a TCID50 assay. Transcription of individual viral genes was measure by RT-PCR using specific primers. Measurement of cellular transcription following estrogen treatment was performed using estrogen signaling PCR arrays. Treatment of BCBL-1 or TRex-BCBL-1 cells with estrogen did not result in viral reactivation as measure by flow cytometry. Estrogen treatment did not prevent TPA-induced reactivation of BCBL-1 cells or doxycycline-induced reactivation of TRex-BCBL-1 cells. treatment of BCBL-1 cells with estrogen alone resulted in a decrease of constitutive viral transcription. BCBL-1 express estrogen receptor beta (compared to MCF-7 cells which express estrogen receptor alpha).Treatment of MCF-7 cells with estrogen result in an increase in transcription of cellular genes while treatment of BCBL-1 resulted in a decrease in cellular transcription. Our results suggest that estrogen can down-regulate both cellular and viral transcription in B cells. This down regulation may be involved in the lack of KS development in women. Statement of Public Health relevance: Reactivation of HHV-8 has been shown to be associated with the advent of Kaposi?s sarcoma. By determining the role of estrogen in the transcription of viral genes and the estrogen receptors involved, potential therapeutic target can be found. The results from these experiments will help understand the biology of HHV-8, and pathology of Kaposi?s sarcoma.} } @unpublished{pittir11861, month = {May}, title = {Usted es haragan pero vos sos lazy: initialization in Honduran Sign Language}, author = {Peter T Cahill}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Sociolinguistics, Linguistic Anthropology, Honduran Studies, Deaf Studies, Sign Language Studies, Sign Linguistics, Communities of Practice, Initialization, Language Variation, Sociology of Language, Central America, Latin America}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11861/}, abstract = {Initialization, an outcome of language contact common to signed languages, has become a global phenomenon. I define initialization as the incorporation of the orthography of a word of a dominant spoken language via the cultural construct of a manual orthography into signs with a semantic correspondence to that word. Despite its being very common within (relatively) well-documented sign languages such as American Sign Language (Padden \& Brentari, 2001), Australian Sign Language (Schembri \& Johnston, 2007) and Qu{\'e}bec Sign Language (Machab{\'e}e, 1995), the literature on the subject is very small. To assist in expanding the nascent fields of sociolinguistics and anthropology of Deaf communities, ethnographic research involving primarily corpus building, interviews and participant observation was performed within the Deaf community of central Honduras to offer preliminary insights into how the personal and group identities of the Honduran Deaf are negotiated through linguistic interactions. Variable initialization is quite a salient marker because of its use in the diverging sociolects of Deaf Honduras. This poses the questions: what instances of variable initialization exist in the community; how are these variable forms manipulated to construct identities; how does variant initialization mark social differentiation in the community? How are linguistic variation and social differentiation intertwined? Social relationships and individual identity are studied by means of this linguistic marker as language is used to build social meaning. In particular, I argue that linguistic variation is polarizing as variant initialization is used to both reflect and justify the social division of the community into central and peripheral.} } @unpublished{pittir12043, month = {June}, title = {The Impact of the Vaccine Supply Chain on the Socioeconomic Status of Regions in Niger}, author = {Brigid E Cakouros}, year = {2012}, keywords = {vaccines, immunization, Niger, socioeconomic status}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12043/}, abstract = {The link between low socioeconomic status and limited access to vaccines has been established in both developed and developing nations. Access to vaccines can be hindered in two ways: the population not utilizing available services, and immunization locations not offering enough vaccine to supply the demand. In the ecological framework of an immunization program, this point is critical to understand in order to assess the current national immunization program. This study aimed to understand if the way the vaccine supply chain (i.e., the ordered system in which vaccines travel from the manufacturer to the clinics) is currently designed could be reflecting socioeconomic conditions of Nigeriens through three main measures: vaccine availability, socioeconomic status, and vaccine coverage. Consistently ranked one of the poorest nations in the world with a high burden of disease, it is vital to understand if the immunization program in Niger is functioning to its best ability to ensure resources are being adequately utilized. Vaccine availability determined the ratio of available vaccine to the demand of the population to be vaccinated. Socioeconomic status was determined by a multi-faceted measure that encompassed the state of poverty in Niger. Vaccine coverage represented the percentage of the vaccine-eligible population that actually was vaccinated. Results indicate that most regions have vaccine availability much higher than the vaccine coverage; therefore, the supply chain is not hindering access to the vaccines by not supplying adequate amounts of vaccines. For those that presented coverage higher than availability, evidence demonstrates that private health providers are most likely influencing the pattern and accessibility of immunization sessions. Regions did not experience lower vaccine availability based on socioeconomic status; in fact, although coverage rates were indeed lower in regions of lower socioeconomic status, these regions had the highest availability. This study demonstrates the public health significance of understanding an immunization program from all levels of supply and demand within a country in order to make the best use of the resources available.} } @unpublished{pittir15806, booktitle = {Preparation for October 19 "Birds of a Feather" Event}, month = {October}, title = {Help for Facilitators and Notetakers}, author = {Karen Calhoun}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15806/}, abstract = {This training workshop's intent was to prepare volunteer facilitators and notetakers for a University Library System collaborative, all-staff planning event sponsored by the FY14 Planning Task Force. This event, to be held October 19, features "Birds of a Feather" discussion sessions on pre-selected topics; the sessions' purpose is to collect participant input, which will then be analyzed and summarized into a report for the FY14 task force. The accompanying interview guide will be used by facilitators and notetakers at the event.} } @incollection{pittir16084, month = {September}, author = {Karen Calhoun}, note = {This is a preprint of a chapter accepted for publication by Facet Publishing and should provide an electronic link to the publisher?s website (www.facetpublishing.co.uk). The author agrees not to update the preprint or replace it with the published version of the chapter.}, booktitle = {Catalogue 2.0}, address = {London}, title = {Supporting Digital Scholarship: Bibliographic Control, Library Cooperatives and Open Access Repositories}, publisher = {Facet Publishing}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16084/}, abstract = {Research libraries have entered an era of discontinuous change{--}a time when the cumulated assets of the past do not guarantee future success. Bibliographic control, cooperative cataloguing systems and library catalogues have been key assets in the research library service framework for supporting scholarship. This chapter examines these assets in the context of changing library collections, new metadata sources and methods, open access repositories, digital scholarship and the purposes of research libraries. Advocating a fundamental rethinking of the research library service framework, the chapter concludes with a call for research libraries to collectively consider new approaches that could strengthen their roles as essential contributors to emergent, network-level scholarly research infrastructures.} } @unpublished{pittir15984, month = {April}, title = {User Services Task Force Documents: University Library System, University of Pittsburgh}, author = {Karen Calhoun and Elvia M Arroyo-Ramirez and Heidi Card and Susan Neuman}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15984/}, abstract = {These documents provide a record of the work of the ULS User Services Task Force, which worked from September 2011 to April 2012 to develop a plan and implementation materials for the redesign of library public services. Pre-TF work included several internal focus groups to gather input. The TF completed an environmental scan, established a design for future services, and recommended strategic options for revitalized services as input to the FY13 Planning Task Force. Two subgroups worked as transition teams to (1) draft Position Description Frameworks for liaison librarians and single service desk staff and (2) develop internal and external communications materials for rolling out the newly designed service unit, called Research and Educational Support (RES). Additional documents (e.g., meeting agendas, presentations, and more) may be accessed via the library's internal site, Behind the Scenes, at http://bts.library.pitt.edu.} } @unpublished{pittir13758, month = {June}, title = {FY13 Planning Task Force Documents: University Library System, University of Pittsburgh, August 2011-June 2012}, author = {Karen Calhoun and Heidi Card and Elvia M Arroyo-Ramirez and Luke Ferdinand}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13758/}, abstract = {These documents provide a record of the work of the ULS FY13 Planning Task Force, which initiated and deployed a highly inclusive strategic planning process to analyze the library's strategic options, prioritize them, and identify key actions for implementation in FY13. The ULS FY13 Planning and Budget Report, submitted to the provost's office on 28 February 2012, incorporates the task force's recommended strategic priorities for FY13. Additional task force documents (e.g., meeting agendas, presentations by task force members, and materials related to the group's environmental scan) may be accessed via the library's internal site, Behind the Scenes, at http://bts.library.pitt.edu, under "General Planning."} } @inproceedings{pittir13376, booktitle = {Annual Meeting of the Association for Library and Information Science Education}, title = {From Consumers To Creators: Collaborative Digital Preservation Projects In A Graduate LIS Setting}, author = {Bernadette Callery and Christinger Tomer}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13376/} } @unpublished{pittir10606, month = {January}, title = {Self-Knowledge, Rationality and Interpretation}, author = {Brett Caloia}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Radical Interpretation, Self-Knowledge, Rationality, Emotion}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10606/}, abstract = {A central concern in the philosophy of mind for the past half-century has been interpretation: what mental states should I attribute to someone else? Quine argued that providing a translation of an alien language required seeing that language as logically structured. Davidson and Lewis took this idea further. They argued that the project of providing a translation was part of a larger project of providing an interpretation of the subject. To interpret was to attribute mental states that made the subject?s behavior rational. Thus they replaced the injunction to see the subject?s language as conforming to logical laws with a broader principle of charity. The principle of charity constrains the activity of interpretation by the untenable assumption that the subject is rational. I propose replacing charity?s injunction to maximize rationality with a principle that directs an interpreter to minimize inexplicable behavior. The positive argument for this new principle emerges from two sources. The first is empirical: there is a great deal of evidence that human beings are simply not all that rational. Moreover, their irrationality is predictable and operates in fairly well understood ways. The second is first-personal: each of us is aware of a variety of irrational tendencies in our own thought. These sources can be drawn on to make sense of behavior without offering a rational reconstruction. I understand why my frustrated colleague yells at his computer, in part, because I know what it means to be frustrated. I argue that taking a first-personal account of the subject seriously will mean seeing that the subject might consciously make transitions in thought that are not beholden to a rational ideal. The interpreter may use his own first-personal experience as a model for understanding the subject. This expands the evidential base beyond the observational. Doing this makes it is possible to recognize something as thought without seeing it as held in place by the rational ideal of the network.} } @article{pittir22798, volume = {98}, number = {2}, month = {May}, author = {PO Campbell}, title = {The procedural queer: Substantive due process, Lawrence v. Texas, and queer rhetorical futures}, journal = {Quarterly Journal of Speech}, pages = {203 -- 229}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22798/}, abstract = {This essay discusses Justice Anthony M. Kennedy's choice to foreground arguments from due process rather than equal protection in the majority opinion in Lawrence v. Texas. Kennedy's choice can realize constitutional legal doctrine that is more consistent with radical queer politics than arguments from equal protection. Unlike some recent critiques of Kennedy's opinion, a queer rhetorical analysis of Lawrence reveals a futuristic, always-open-to-change vision in Kennedy's rhetorical framing of constitutional law that is significantly less damaging to possibilities for "queer world making" in the United States than other contemporary US judicial arguments of and about sexuality. {\copyright} 2012 National Communication Association.} } @unpublished{pittir10662, month = {January}, title = {Socioeconomic differentiation, leadership, and residential patterning at an Araucanian chiefly center (Isla Mocha, AD 1000-1700)}, author = {Roberto Campbell}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Araucania, Chiefdoms, Chile, Mapuche Indians, Settlement, Social Complexity}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10662/}, abstract = {The native populations of Araucania (southern Chile) never succumbed to Inka or Spanish conquest. But while independent indigenous sociopolitical structures persisted until the late 1800s, remarkably little is known about late prehispanic and early historical Araucanian sociopolitical organization. Lacking significant archaeological research, current reconstructions are based almost exclusively on European chronicles, and paint a bewilderingly varied picture of indigenous organization, ranging from a native Araucania made up of scattered autonomous kin units lacking any political centralization, to one consisting of powerful chiefdoms built on elaborate public display and macro-regional alliances among elites. My research was oriented at producing a comprehensive understanding of Araucanian settlement and socioeconomic organization and social leadership through archaeological investigation of household variability and intra-community patterning at archaeological sites belonging to the El Vergel archaeological complex (AD 1000-1550) and subsequent historical reche-Mapuche (AD 1550- 1750) period. My research zone of 6 km2 was established in and around the site of P31-1, an ethnohistorically tentative chiefly center, on Isla Mocha (Chile). In this zone, a full coverage survey, intensive surface collections, and test pits were completed. Inter and intrasite analyses were made of ceramic, lithic, archaeobotanical, and faunal assemblages. The information gathered made possible assessment of several current constructs of native Araucanian sociopolitical organization. The fieldwork revealed the existence of three communities (sites P29-1, P31-1, and P5-1), which were relatively autonomous socially and economically. If there indeed was a paramount chief at P31-1, the centralizing effects of this office were very weak. The research produced no evidence for social inequality based on wealth finance activities (in exchange or craft production), wealth accumulation, or even markedly different household activities. At both P29-1 and P31-1 excavations revealed small but pervasive wealth differences among residents, seen in variability in consumption of higher value pottery, better stone tool material, and in diet. These muted wealth differences, when combined with the presence of two mounds and a sizable platform, suggest patterns of native social differentiation and leadership based on prestige and ideology, rather than forms of economic control.} } @article{pittir18730, volume = {10}, number = {30}, month = {August}, author = {L Cao and JP MacIejewski and S Elzner and D Amantini and P Wipf}, title = {Synthesis of 1,2,4-triazines and the triazinoisoquinolinedione DEF ring system of noelaquinone}, journal = {Organic and Biomolecular Chemistry}, pages = {5811 -- 5814}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18730/}, abstract = {The intramolecular Staudinger-aza-Wittig reaction is used for a general synthesis of 1,2,5,6-tetrahydro-1,2,4-triazines, a structural motif reported for the natural product noelaquinone. The DEF moiety of noelaquinone was obtained in 13 steps and 2\% overall yield, and the structure of the synthetic product was confirmed by X-ray analysis. {\copyright} 2012 The Royal Society of Chemistry.} } @article{pittir19639, volume = {18}, number = {12}, month = {December}, author = {Nan Cao and Yu-Ru Lin and Xiaohua Sun and D Lazer and Shixia Liu and Huamin Qu}, title = {Whisper: Tracing the Spatiotemporal Process of Information Diffusion in Real Time.}, journal = {IEEE Trans Vis Comput Graph}, pages = {2649 -- 2658}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Computer Graphics, Information Dissemination, Software, Spatio-Temporal Analysis, User-Computer Interface}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19639/}, abstract = {When and where is an idea dispersed? Social media, like Twitter, has been increasingly used for exchanging information, opinions and emotions about events that are happening across the world. Here we propose a novel visualization design, "Whisper", for tracing the process of information diffusion in social media in real time. Our design highlights three major characteristics of diffusion processes in social media: the temporal trend, social-spatial extent, and community response of a topic of interest. Such social, spatiotemporal processes are conveyed based on a sunflower metaphor whose seeds are often dispersed far away. In Whisper, we summarize the collective responses of communities on a given topic based on how tweets were retweeted by groups of users, through representing the sentiments extracted from the tweets, and tracing the pathways of retweets on a spatial hierarchical layout. We use an efficient flux line-drawing algorithm to trace multiple pathways so the temporal and spatial patterns can be identified even for a bursty event. A focused diffusion series highlights key roles such as opinion leaders in the diffusion process. We demonstrate how our design facilitates the understanding of when and where a piece of information is dispersed and what are the social responses of the crowd, for large-scale events including political campaigns and natural disasters. Initial feedback from domain experts suggests promising use for today's information consumption and dispersion in the wild.} } @unpublished{pittir13476, month = {August}, title = {School Leadership and School Mental Health: An Exploratory Study of SMH Content in the Preparation of Principals}, author = {Sielke Mary Caparelli}, year = {2012}, keywords = {school mental health school leadership educational administration children's mental health principal preparation }, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13476/}, abstract = {The increasing prevalence of K-12 students with mental health disorders is of great concern because research has shown that these children are at increased risk for academic failure. Accordingly, this study explored two intersecting fields of study ? school mental health (SMH) and education administration, first examining the literature on the definition and prevalence of children?s mental health disorders, the history of the SMH movement, and SMH competencies for school leaders. What follows is an exploratory, multiple case study to determine the extent of SMH content within five nationally ranked U.S. principal preparation programs. A mixed methods analysis used text data derived from program mission statements, syllabi, faculty curriculum vitae documents and one program director interview. More than 94 documents were analyzed for SMH text evidence, resulting in 161 text units. These units then were coded by SMH dimension as well as by syllabi context (e.g., assignments, readings, and course objectives). Further inductive analysis revealed 14 SMH topics. Some text units reflected concepts that might be related to SMH (e.g., collaboration, community, and school culture). However, the terms ?school mental health? and ?children?s mental health? never appeared in any documents, suggesting a lack of attention to the critical importance of children?s mental health disorders and their contribution to poor school performance. Implications of the results as well as recommendations for improving national policy, state standards, local collaborations and higher education preparation programs for school leaders are discussed. These recommendations include promoting better collaboration of national SMH and educational administration leaders in policy forums, incorporating student mental health as a priority in national guidelines for the preparation of school and district leaders, and rethinking preparation programs to improve the capacity of school leaders for developing and sustaining SMH partnerships. } } @article{pittir29844, volume = {10}, number = {1}, month = {August}, title = {BAP1 cancer syndrome: malignant mesothelioma, uveal and cutaneous melanoma, and MBAITs}, author = {M Carbone and LK Ferris and F Baumann and A Napolitano and CA Lum and EG Flores and G Gaudino and A Powers and P Bryant-Greenwood and T Krausz and E Hyjek and R Tate and J Friedberg and T Weigel and HI Pass and H Yang}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of Translational Medicine}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29844/}, abstract = {Background: BRCA1-associated protein 1 (BAP1) is a tumor suppressor gene located on chromosome 3p21. Germline BAP1 mutations have been recently associated with an increased risk of malignant mesothelioma, atypical melanocytic tumors and other neoplasms. To answer the question if different germline BAP1 mutations may predispose to a single syndrome with a wide phenotypic range or to distinct syndromes, we investigated the presence of melanocytic tumors in two unrelated families (L and W) with germline BAP1 mutations and increased risk of malignant mesothelioma.Methods: Suspicious cutaneous lesions were clinically and pathologically characterized and compared to those present in other families carrying BAP1 mutations. We then conducted a meta-analysis of all the studies reporting BAP1-mutated families to survey cancer risk related to the germline BAP1 mutation (means were compared using t-test and proportions were compared with Pearson {\ensuremath{\chi}}2 test or two-tailed Fisher's exact test).Results: Melanocytic tumors: of the five members of the L family studied, four (80\%) carried a germline BAP1 mutation (p.Gln684*) and also presented one or more atypical melanocytic tumors; of the seven members of W family studied, all carried a germline BAP1 mutation (p.Pro147fs*48) and four of them (57\%) presented one or more atypical melanocytic tumors, that we propose to call " melanocytic BAP1-mutated atypical intradermal tumors" (MBAITs). Meta-analysis: 118 individuals from seven unrelated families were selected and divided into a BAP1-mutated cohort and a BAP1-non-mutated cohort. Malignant mesothelioma, uveal melanoma, cutaneous melanoma, and MBAITs prevalence was significantly higher in the BAP1-mutated cohort (p {$\leq$} 0.001).Conclusions: Germline BAP1 mutations are associated with a novel cancer syndrome characterized by malignant mesothelioma, uveal melanoma, cutaneous melanoma and MBAITs, and possibly by other cancers. MBAITs provide physicians with a marker to identify individuals who may carry germline BAP1 mutations and thus are at high risk of developing associated cancers. {\copyright} 2012 Carbone et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir18854, volume = {123}, number = {1-3}, month = {June}, author = {AW Carrico and LM Pollack and RD Stall and SB Shade and TB Neilands and TM Rice and WJ Woods and JT Moskowitz}, title = {Psychological processes and stimulant use among men who have sex with men}, journal = {Drug and Alcohol Dependence}, pages = {79 -- 83}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18854/}, abstract = {Background: Prior research established that psychological factors are associated with the frequency of stimulant (i.e., cocaine, crack, and methamphetamine) use among substance-using men who have sex with men (MSM). The present investigation examined whether and how psychological factors are associated with engagement in any stimulant use in the broader population of MSM. Methods: A probability sample of 879 MSM residing in San Francisco was obtained using random digit dialing from May of 2002 through January of 2003. Of these, 711 participants (81\%) completed a mail-in questionnaire that assessed psychological factors and substance use. After accounting for demographic factors, a multiple logistic regression analysis examined correlates of any self-reported stimulant use during the past 6 months. Path analyses examined if the use of alcohol or other substances to avoid negative mood states (i.e., substance use coping) mediated the associations of sexual compulsivity and depressed mood with stimulant use. Results: Younger age (adjusted OR [AOR]=0.58; 95\% CI=0.47-0.70), HIV-positive serostatus (AOR=2.55; 95\% CI=1.61-4.04), greater depressed mood (AOR=1.26; 95\% CI=1.05-1.52) and higher sexual compulsivity (AOR=1.46; 95\% CI=1.18-1.80) were independently associated with increased odds of stimulant use. Substance use coping partially mediated the associations of sexual compulsivity ({\ensuremath{\beta}}indirect=0.11, p{\ensuremath{<}}.001) and depressed mood ({\ensuremath{\beta}}indirect=0.13, p{\ensuremath{<}}.001) with stimulant use. Conclusions: Clinical research is needed to examine if interventions targeting sexual compulsivity and emotion regulation reduce stimulant use among MSM. {\copyright} 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd.} } @article{pittir13245, volume = {7}, number = {7}, month = {July}, title = {Complex patterns of human antisera reactivity to novel 2009 H1N1 and historical H1N1 influenza strains}, author = {DM Carter and HR Lu and CE Bloom and CJ Crevar and JL Cherry and DJ Lipman and TM Ross}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13245/}, abstract = {Background: During the 2009 influenza pandemic, individuals over the age of 60 had the lowest incidence of infection with approximately 25\% of these people having pre-existing, cross-reactive antibodies to novel 2009 H1N1 influenza isolates. It was proposed that older people had pre-existing antibodies induced by previous 1918-like virus infection(s) that cross-reacted to novel H1N1 strains. Methodology/Principal Findings: Using antisera collected from a cohort of individuals collected before the second wave of novel H1N1 infections, only a minority of individuals with 1918 influenza specific antibodies also demonstrated hemagglutination-inhibition activity against the novel H1N1 influenza. In this study, we examined human antisera collected from individuals that ranged between the ages of 1 month and 90 years to determine the profile of seropositive influenza immunity to viruses representing H1N1 antigenic eras over the past 100 years. Even though HAI titers to novel 2009 H1N1 and the 1918 H1N1 influenza viruses were positively associated, the association was far from perfect, particularly for the older and younger age groups. Conclusions/Significance: Therefore, there may be a complex set of immune responses that are retained in people infected with seasonal H1N1 that can contribute to the reduced rates of H1N1 influenza infection in older populations. {\copyright} 2012 Carter et al.} } @article{pittir16065, volume = {7}, number = {10}, month = {October}, title = {Is He Being Bad? Social and Language Brain Networks during Social Judgment in Children with Autism}, author = {EJ Carter and DL Williams and NJ Minshew and JF Lehman}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16065/}, abstract = {Individuals with autism often violate social rules and have lower accuracy in identifying and explaining inappropriate social behavior. Twelve children with autism (AD) and thirteen children with typical development (TD) participated in this fMRI study of the neurofunctional basis of social judgment. Participants indicated in which of two pictures a boy was being bad (Social condition) or which of two pictures was outdoors (Physical condition). In the within-group Social-Physical comparison, TD children used components of mentalizing and language networks [bilateral inferior frontal gyrus (IFG), bilateral medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), and bilateral posterior superior temporal sulcus (pSTS)], whereas AD children used a network that was primarily right IFG and bilateral pSTS, suggesting reduced use of social and language networks during this social judgment task. A direct group comparison on the Social-Physical contrast showed that the TD group had greater mPFC, bilateral IFG, and left superior temporal pole activity than the AD group. No regions were more active in the AD group than in the group with TD in this comparison. Both groups successfully performed the task, which required minimal language. The groups also performed similarly on eyetracking measures, indicating that the activation results probably reflect the use of a more basic strategy by the autism group rather than performance disparities. Even though language was unnecessary, the children with TD recruited language areas during the social task, suggesting automatic encoding of their knowledge into language; however, this was not the case for the children with autism. These findings support behavioral research indicating that, whereas children with autism may recognize socially inappropriate behavior, they have difficulty using spoken language to explain why it is inappropriate. The fMRI results indicate that AD children may not automatically use language to encode their social understanding, making expression and generalization of this knowledge more difficult. {\copyright} 2012 Carter et al.} } @article{pittir16045, volume = {7}, number = {10}, month = {October}, title = {Trajectories of Childhood Weight Gain: The Relative Importance of Local Environment versus Individual Social and Early Life Factors}, author = {MA Carter and L Dubois and MS Tremblay and M Taljaard and BL Jones}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16045/}, abstract = {Objective: To determine the association between local environmental factors with child weight status in a longitudinal study, using a semi-parametric, group-based method, while also considering social and early life factors. Methods: Standardized, directly measured BMI from 4-10 y of age, and group-based trajectory modeling (PROC TRAJ) were used to estimate developmental trajectories of weight change in a Qu{\'e}bec birth cohort (n = 1,566). Associations between the weight trajectories and living location, social cohesion, disorder, and material and social deprivation were estimated after controlling for social and early life factors. Results: Four weight trajectory groups were estimated: low-increasing (9.7\%); low-medium, accelerating (36.2\%); medium-high, increasing (43.0\%); and high-stable (11.1\%). In the low-increasing and medium-high trajectory groups, living in a semi-urban area was inversely related to weight, while living in a rural area was positively related to weight in the high-stable group. Disorder was inversely related to weight in the low-increasing group only. Other important risk factors for high-stable weight included obesity status of the mother, smoking during pregnancy, and overeating behaviors. Conclusions: In this study, associations between local environment factors and weight differed by trajectory group. Early life factors appear to play a more consistent role in weight status. Further work is needed to determine the influence of place on child weight. {\copyright} 2012 Carter et al.} } @unpublished{pittir11907, month = {June}, title = {From Haiti to Cuba and Back: Haitians' Experiences of Migration, Labor, and Return, 1900-1940}, author = {Matthew Casey}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Haiti Cuba Migration Labor Race Sugar Coffee Religion}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11907/}, abstract = {This dissertation is a social history of the approximately 200,000 individuals who migrated seasonally between their homes in rural Haiti and the eastern regions of Cuba during the height of the United States? military and economic presence in both countries. Existing scholarship explains Haitians? movements in terms of the United States? military presence in Haiti (1915-1934), the country?s rural poverty, and the massive growth of U.S.- and Cuban-owned sugar plantations in Cuba. However, the migrants themselves have not been studied. Instead, previous scholarship puts forth an image of Haitian migrants that is heavily influenced by false, long-standing assumptions about Haiti and the anti-immigrant stereotypes of the early 20th-century Cuban press. They are portrayed as a homogenous group of unskilled laborers who remained at the bottom of labor hierarchies, were isolated from other groups in Cuban society and were dominated by Cuban sugar companies and state officials in both countries. Due to their high rates of illiteracy, the life stories of the migrants are difficult to reconstruct using traditional sources such as letters or diaries. Drawing on research conducted in multiple archives and libraries in Cuba, Haiti, and the United States, my dissertation details migrants? experiences in both Haiti and Cuba. It joins a rapidly growing body of scholarship on labor, migration, and trans-nationalism in Latin America and the Caribbean that seeks a fuller understanding of workers? lives by emphasizing economic activities and coping strategies that occurred outside of formal wage activities and union mobilization. I show the ways that Haitian men and women navigated the harsh working and living conditions in both Haiti and Cuba by creating and maintaining kinship, commercial, religious, and social networks in sugar plantations, coffee farms, and urban spaces. These links cut across national lines and decisively shaped the conditions under which they moved, labored, and lived in both countries. Reconstructing Haitians? interactions with other workers outside the gazes of company and state illustrates how those institutions functioned on the ground, questions the extent to which national-level racial ideologies determined local social relationships, and demonstrates how workers? actions shaped the implementation of migration and trade policies. } } @article{pittir20840, volume = {18}, number = {11-12}, month = {June}, author = {TR Cassino and L Drowley and M Okada and SA Beckman and B Keller and K Tobita and PR Leduc and J Huard}, title = {Mechanical loading of stem cells for improvement of transplantation outcome in a model of acute myocardial infarction: The role of loading history}, journal = {Tissue Engineering - Part A}, pages = {1101 -- 1108}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20840/}, abstract = {Stem cell therapy for tissue repair is a rapidly evolving field and the factors that dictate the physiological responsiveness of stem cells remain under intense investigation. In this study we hypothesized that the mechanical loading history of muscle-derived stem cells (MDSCs) would significantly impact MDSC survival, host tissue angiogenesis, and myocardial function after MDSC transplantation into acutely infarcted myocardium. Mice with acute myocardial infarction by permanent left coronary artery ligation were injected with either nonstimulated (NS) or mechanically stimulated (MS) MDSCs. Mechanical stimulation consisted of stretching the cells with equibiaxial stretch with a magnitude of 10\% and frequency of 0.5Hz. MS cell-transplanted hearts showed improved cardiac contractility, increased numbers of host CD31+ cells, and decreased fibrosis, in the peri-infarct region, compared to the hearts treated with NS MDSCs. MS MDSCs displayed higher vascular endothelial growth factor expression than NS cells in vitro. These findings highlight an important role for cyclic mechanical loading preconditioning of donor MDSCs in optimizing MDSC transplantation for myocardial repair. {\copyright} 2012, Mary Ann Liebert, Inc.} } @article{pittir29852, volume = {16}, number = {4}, month = {July}, title = {Light and the outcome of the critically ill: An observational cohort study}, author = {RA Castro and DC Angus and SY Hong and C Lee and LA Weissfeld and G Clermont and MR Rosengart}, year = {2012}, journal = {Critical Care}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29852/}, abstract = {Introduction: Light before and during acute illness has been associated with both benefit and harm in animal models and small human studies. Our objective was to determine the associations of light duration (photoperiod) and intensity (insolation) before and during critical illness with hospital mortality in ICU patients. Based on the 'winter immunoenhancement' theory, we tested the hypothesis that a shorter photoperiod before critical illness is associated with improved survival.Methods: We analyzed data from 11,439 patients admitted to 8 ICUs at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center between June 30, 1999 and July 31, 2004. Daily photoperiod and insolation prior to and after ICU admission were estimated for each patient by using data provided by the United States Naval Observatory and National Aeronautics and Space Administration and direct measurement of light gradient from outside to bedside for each ICU room. Our primary outcome was hospital mortality. The association between light and risk of death was analyzed using multivariate analyses, adjusting for potential confounders, including severity of illness, case mix, and ICU type.Results: The cohort had an average APACHE III of 52.9 and a hospital mortality of 10.7\%. In total, 128 ICU beds were analyzed; 108 (84\%) had windows. Pre-illness photoperiod ranged from 259 to 421 hours in the prior month. A shorter photoperiod was associated with a reduced risk of death: for each 1-hour decrease, the adjusted OR was 0.997 (0.994 to 0.999, p = 0.03). In the ICU, there was near complete (99.6\%) degradation of natural light from outside to the ICU bed. Thus, light exposure once in the ICU approached zero; the 24-hour insolation was 0.005 {$\pm$} 0.003 kWh/m 2 with little diurnal variation. There was no association between ICU photoperiod or insolation and mortality.Conclusions: Consistent with the winter immunoenhancement theory, a shorter photoperiod in the month before critical illness is associated with a reduced risk of death. Once in the ICU, patients are exposed to near negligible natural light despite the presence of windows. Further studies are warranted to determine the underlying mechanisms and whether manipulating light exposure, before or during ICU admission, can enhance survival. {\copyright} 2012 Castro et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir13612, month = {September}, title = {From Daraa to Damascus: Regional and Temporal Protest Variation in Syria}, author = {Shena Cavallo}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Protest; social movements; Middle East; Syria; repression; diffusion; Arab Spring}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13612/}, abstract = {When protest erupted in Syria on March 2011, there was considerable analysis seeking to explain the initial display of collective action. While this initial showing of dissent caught some off-guard, what was more remarkable is how the protest movement managed to endure, well over a year, despite policies of severe repression, a lack of established opposition organizations, and a lack of regime defections. This paper seeks to explore which factors have sustained the protest movement, as well as the role of these factors at different stages in the ?protest wave? and the relationship these variables share with region-specific waves of protest. I hypothesize that more traditional approaches to understanding protest longevity must be expanded in order to help explain contemporary events of protest, particularly in authoritarian contexts. The time and space aspects, also, must be considered because protest must attain a certain critical mass (in terms of participants, frequency, and dispersion) to present a unified front against an incumbent regime. I utilize a qualitative analysis in which social movement theory is applied to the Syrian case and also use panel data to test my hypotheses concerning the variables I believe to be relevant in Syria, at different stages in the ?protest wave? and in different regions of the country. Both the quantitative and qualitative approaches indicate that there have been several critical elements at play which helped to compensate for the relative lack of resources and opportunities. These factors involve the role of personal networks, collective identity, and the likelihood of success. Protest, however, cannot be explained by simply looking at a movement because bystanders and government actors also matter. The government?s policy of repression played a critical role insofar as it was relatively indiscriminate across regions and among various demographics. This factor helped to facilitate a process in which more Syrians came to identity and, consequently, sympathize with the fallen protesters, creating a multiplier effect. In this way, repression is not simply a factor which may increase or decrease protest, but also a critical opportunity which conveys information about the regime that may have otherwise remained hidden.} } @article{pittir24255, volume = {5}, number = {4}, month = {April}, author = {RS Cecchini and JP Costantino and JA Cauley and WM Cronin and DL Wickerham and SR Land and JL Weissfeld and N Wolmark}, title = {Body mass index and the risk for developing invasive breast cancer among high-risk women in NSABP P-1 and STAR breast cancer prevention trials}, journal = {Cancer Prevention Research}, pages = {583 -- 592}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/24255/}, abstract = {High body mass index (BMI) has been associated with an increased risk for breast cancer among postmenopausal women. However, the relationship between BMI and breast cancer risk in premenopausal women has remained unclear. Data from two large prevention trials conducted by the National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project (NSABP) were used to explore the relationship between baseline BMI and breast cancer risk. The analyses included 12,243 participants with 253 invasive breast cancer events from the Breast Cancer Prevention Trial (P-1) and 19,488 participants with 557 events from the Study of Tamoxifen and Raloxifene (STAR). Both studies enrolled high-risk women (Gail score ? 1.66) with no breast cancer history. Women in P-1 were pre-and postmenopausal, whereas women in STAR (P-2) were all postmenopausal at entry. Using Cox proportional hazards regression, we found slight but nonsignificant increased risks of invasive breast cancer among overweight and obese postmenopausal participants in STAR and P-1. Among premenopausal participants, an increased risk of invasive breast cancer was significantly associated with higher BMI (P = 0.01). Compared with BMI less than 25, adjusted HRs for premenopausal women were 1.59 for BMI 25 to 29.9 and 1.70 for BMI 30 or more. Our investigation among annually screened, high-risk participants in randomized, breast cancer chemoprevention trials showed that higher levels of BMI were significantly associated with increased breast cancer risk in premenopausal women older than 35 years, but not postmenopausal women. {\copyright}2012 AACR.} } @unpublished{pittir11815, month = {June}, title = {Issues in breast cancer prevention: body mass index, breast density, and fractures}, author = {Reena S. Cecchini}, year = {2012}, keywords = {breast cancer, obesity, chemoprevention, tamoxifen, raloxifene, Gail model}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11815/}, abstract = {Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer besides skin and the second leading cause of cancer death among American women. Breast cancer prevention comprises all techniques that lower the risk for developing breast cancer, thereby lowering population incidence and mortality. This dissertation used breast cancer prevention clinical trials data from the National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project to evaluate important issues related to breast cancer prevention. Some breast cancer risk factors are modifiable and can be changed with lifestyle adjustments. For example, high body weight has been associated with increased breast cancer risk among postmenopausal women, but the relationship in premenopausal women has remained unclear. In the first analysis, we found a significant association between overweight and obesity and increased breast cancer risk in premenopausal women, and a nonsignificant association among postmenopausal women. Other risk factors are not modifiable and require more complex interventions such as chemopreventive therapies. The Gail model is the most popular risk prediction model to determine who might benefit from these therapies, but it does not include breast density which is an established breast cancer risk factor. In a second analysis, high breast density was significantly associated with increased breast cancer risk when considered with the Gail score, but provided only slight improvement in discriminatory accuracy. Despite the success and availability of tamoxifen and raloxifene as chemopreventive agents, they have been underused in clinical settings. Providing more information about these drugs may help to increase their popularity. A final analysis expanded on prior findings about tamoxifen and bone fractures, and showed that tamoxifen reduced osteoporotic fracture risk for all subgroups of women. The public health significance of this dissertation is realized in the clarification and expansion of knowledge surrounding important issues in breast cancer prevention for both clinicians and patients. We showed that maintaining a healthy weight is likely beneficial for all women at high-risk for developing breast cancer, and that women receiving tamoxifen will gain the added benefit of fracture risk reduction. Furthermore, among postmenopausal women, a single assessment of breast density does not provide substantial risk prediction improvement.} } @unpublished{pittir13810, month = {September}, title = {Hidden Caregivers: A Literature Review of Young Caregivers in the United States}, author = {Kristin Champlain}, year = {2012}, keywords = {"young carers," "young caregivers," "caregiver," "caregiving"}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13810/}, abstract = {Young caregivers are a hidden subgroup among the caregiving population. Young caregivers provide significant assistance (often on a regular basis) to relatives or household members requiring help due to illness, disability, or substance misuse. There is no consensus at this time on the specific age range at which one can be considered a ?young caregiver? versus an adult caregiver. Commonly, the age range used to define young caregivers is 18 years and younger or 25 years and younger. The prevalence of young caregivers in the United States is estimated to be 1.3-1.4 million child caregivers (age 8-18 years) as of 2005 and represented approximately 12-18 percent of the total caregiver population. Studies suggest that young caregiving is associated with increased risk for depression or anxiety, poor academic performance, poor socialization or lack of opportunity and more barriers to achieving future goals such as higher education. This paper used a critical review of the literature on young caregivers in the United States, specifically focused on a discussion of the challenges and benefits experienced by young caregivers. The literature review found barriers to services and future goals at various levels of the Social Ecological Model: individual, interpersonal, community, institutional, and policy. Within the literature, the common barriers of positive outcomes typically include: mental health status (rates of depression or anxiety), academic performance, caregiver burden, and developmental issues (or coping skills). Facilitators of positive outcomes most often researched include: self-esteem or pride, perceived familial relationships, and coping skills. The young caregiver population is likely to increase as time goes on and we are only seeing a glimpse of what is likely to increase in a unique caregiver population. Due smaller family sizes and childbearing in later years, children still in their formative years will be called upon their aging parents for care. The public health significance of identifying the challenges faced by young caregivers (and how their emotional and physical health is impacted) will assist in identifying ways to mitigate the negative impacts via interventions and make appropriate policy changes. } } @unpublished{pittir13519, month = {September}, title = {Re-examining the impact of analogies on ideation search patterns: Lessons from an in vivo study in engineering design}, author = {Chu Sern Joel Chan}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Analogy Design cognition Problem solving Creativity Ideation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13519/}, abstract = {Decades of research on the cognitive science of innovation have consistently implicated the importance of analogy during creative ideation. While the association of analogies with innovative design concepts is clear, more work is needed to understand the specific mechanisms by which analogy might help designers generate such concepts. The present work employed detailed analysis of the temporal interplay between analogy use and ideation in the naturalistic brainstorming conversations of a real-world professional design team to test between competing hypotheses in the literature: (1) analogy supports innovation primarily via large steps in design spaces during concept generation (jumps), and (2) analogy supports innovation primarily via small steps (incremental search). In Study 1, self-generated analogies (including distant ones) were not systematically associated with jumps; on the contrary, concepts tended to be more similar to their precedents after analogy use in comparison to baseline situations (i.e., without analogy use). Study 2 found that the rate of concept generation was greater when associated with analogy in comparison to baseline conditions, suggesting that the effects observed in Study 1 were not due to an overall fixating effect of analogies. Overall, these results challenge the view that analogies help designers generate innovative concepts mainly via jumps in design spaces, and instead suggests that analogies primarily support incremental search. Theoretical implications and future directions for the cognitive science of analogy and innovation are discussed.} } @unpublished{pittir12499, month = {September}, title = {Tense-aspect processing in second language learners}, author = {Ho Leung Chan}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Tense, aspect, L2 acquisition, transfer, prototype}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12499/}, abstract = {This dissertation provides a language processing perspective on the study of second language acquisition (SLA) of tense and aspect. Of special interest are the universal vis-{\`a}-vis language- specific dimensions of temporal and aspectual semantics involved. According to the Aspect Hypothesis (AH, e.g. Andersen \& Shirai, 1994), the initial acquisition and subsequent emergence of (perfective) past tense and progressive aspect morphology follow a semantic-driven, universal sequence. The AH appeals to a cognitive-based prototype account (Shirai \& Andersen, 1995), and has gained ample empirical support from offline data in the past two decades. Mounting evidence of transfer, however, has begun to emerge in recent psycholinguistic research, suggesting that grammatical aspectual categories such as the English progressive have non-trivial influence on principles of information organization in language comprehension among L2 learners and bilingual speakers (Stutterheim \& Carroll, 2006). This dissertation undertakes a psycholinguistic investigation of L2 learners? processing of English past and progressive morphology. Participants included native English speakers as well as English L2 learners from Korean, German, and Mandarin Chinese backgrounds, whose L1s differ systematically with respect to past and progressive morphology. This cross-linguistic design enabled a systematic testing of both the prototype and transfer hypotheses in one single study. Three word-by-word self-paced reading experiments examined L2 learners? automaticity in morphological processing, the universality of tense-aspect prototypes, and aspectual coercion. Experiment I generated evidence that L2 learners were generally capable of detecting tense- aspect morphosyntactic errors online. Reading time results from Experiment II revealed that L2 learners did not show uniform processing advantages afforded by tense-aspect prototypes. Instead, there exist L1 effects in prototypes, at least from evidence in processing L2 tense-aspect distinctions. Experiment III investigated the processing consequences of aspectual coercion in L2 learners, and results indicated strong L1 influence. The most robust finding across the three experiments is that the L2 learners showed clear L1-based variations in their performance, reflecting a strong tendency for transfer. Notably, these results were obtained after controlling for L2 proficiency and inflected verb form frequencies. A more prominent role of L1 influence is implicated in L2 learners? representation of tense-aspect prototypes than previously assumed.} } @article{pittir22956, volume = {40}, number = {8}, month = {November}, author = {J Chan and SBF Paletz and CD Schunn}, title = {Analogy as a strategy for supporting complex problem solving under uncertainty}, journal = {Memory and Cognition}, pages = {1352 -- 1365}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22956/}, abstract = {Complex problem solving in naturalistic environments is fraught with uncertainty, which has significant impacts on problem-solving behavior. Thus, theories of human problem solving should include accounts of the cognitive strategies people bring to bear to deal with uncertainty during problem solving. In this article, we present evidence that analogy is one such strategy. Using statistical analyses of the temporal dynamics between analogy and expressed uncertainty in the naturalistic problem-solving conversations among scientists on the Mars Rover Mission, we show that spikes in expressed uncertainty reliably predict analogy use (Study 1) and that expressed uncertainty reduces to baseline levels following analogy use (Study 2). In addition, in Study 3, we show with qualitative analyses that this relationship between uncertainty and analogy is not due to miscommunication-related uncertainty but, rather, is primarily concentrated on substantive problem-solving issues. Finally, we discuss a hypothesis about how analogy might serve as an uncertainty reduction strategy in naturalistic complex problem solving. {\copyright} 2012 Psychonomic Society, Inc.} } @article{pittir29807, volume = {16}, number = {5}, month = {October}, title = {Weighing risks and benefits of stress ulcer prophylaxis in critically ill patients}, author = {T Chanpura and S Yende}, year = {2012}, journal = {Critical Care}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29807/}, abstract = {Citation: Marik PE, Tajender Vasu T, Hirani A, Pachinburavan M: Stress ulcer prophylaxis in the new millennium: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Critical Care Med 2010, 38:11.Background: Recent observational studies suggest that bleeding from stress ulceration is extremely uncommon in intensive care unit patients. Furthermore, the risk of bleeding may not be altered by the use of acid suppressive therapy. Early enteral tube feeding (initiated within 48 h of intensive care unit admission) may account for this observation. Stress ulcer prophylaxis may, however, increase the risk of hospital-acquired pneumonia and Clostridia difficile infection.Methods: Results: Seventeen studies (which enrolled 1836 patients) met the inclusion criteria. Patients received adequate enteral nutrition in three of the studies. Overall, stress ulcer prophylaxis with a histamine-2 receptor blocker reduced the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding (odds ratio 0.47; 95\% confidence interval, 0.29-0.76; P {\ensuremath{<}} 0.002; Heterogeneity [I 2] = 44\%); however, the treatment effect was noted only in the subgroup of patients who did not receive enteral nutrition. In those patients who were fed enterally, stress ulcer prophylaxis did not alter the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding (odds ratio 1.26; 95\% confidence interval, 0.43-3.7). Overall histamine-2 receptor blockers did not increase the risk of hospital-acquired pneumonia (odds ratio 1.53; 95\% confidence interval, 0.89-2.61; P = 0.12; I 2 = 41\%); however, this complication was increased in the subgroup of patients who were fed enterally (odds ratio 2.81; 95\% confidence interval, 1.20-6.56; P = 0.02; I 2 = 0\%). Overall, stress ulcer prophylaxis had no effect on hospital mortality (odds ratio 1.03; 95\% confidence interval, 0.78-1.37; P = 0.82). The hospital mortality was, however, higher in those studies (n = 2) in which patients were fed enterally and received a histamine-2 receptor blocker (odds ratio 1.89; 95\% confidence interval, 1.04-3.44; P = 0.04, I 2 = 0\%). Sensitivity analysis and metaregression demonstrated no relationship between the treatment effect (risk of gastrointestinal bleeding) and the classification used to define gastrointestinal bleeding, the Jadad quality score or the year the study was reported.Conclusions: The results of this meta-analysis suggest that, in those patients receiving enteral nutrition, stress ulcer prophylaxis may not be required and, indeed, such therapy may increase the risk of pneumonia and death. However, because no clinical study has prospectively tested the influence of enteral nutrition on the risk of stress ulcer prophylaxis, those findings should be considered exploratory and interpreted with some caution. {\copyright} 2012 BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir10771, month = {January}, title = {Fossil fuel related water-rock interaction in the Appalachian Basin, Pennsylvania and New York: A geochemical and strontium isotope investigation}, author = {Elizabeth C Chapman}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Appalachian Basin strontium isotopes water-rock interaction isotope tracking Marcellus Shale acid mine drainage}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10771/}, abstract = {Fossil fuel resources (coal/oil/natural gas) have been extracted from the Appalachian Basin for over a century. Related fluids, including outflows from inactive coal mines and produced water from oil and gas wells, pose environmental concern. Three studies are presented which integrate strontium (Sr) isotopes with geologic and geochemical analyses to investigate the movement of fossil fuel-related fluids through the environment and their interactions with natural waters and geologic materials. In the first study, abandoned oil and gas wells tapping Upper Devonian units in northwestern Pennsylvania serve as conduits for the movement of waters with high amounts of total dissolved solids (TDS). This work demonstrates that the waters originate as acid mine drainage (AMD), which infiltrates shallow, siderite-cemented sandstone aquifers. Dissolution of the siderite cement produces waters rich in dissolved iron, which flow to the surface via wells with compromised casings. The second study focuses upon high-TDS water produced during natural gas extraction from the Middle Devonian Marcellus Shale. Strontium isotopic ratios of produced waters collected from across Pennsylvania define a relatively narrow set of values (87Sr/86Sr = 0.71008-0.71212) that falls above that of Devonian seawater, and is distinct from most western Pennsylvania AMD and Upper Devonian Venango Formation oil and gas brines. The uniformity of the isotope ratios suggests a basin-wide source of dissolved solids. Mixing models indicate that Sr isotopes can potentially detect even small amounts ({\ensuremath{<}}0.01\%) of Marcellus produced water interacting with natural waters. In the third study, a sequential extraction procedure was carried out on drill cuttings from a well in south-central New York that penetrates the Marcellus Shale and adjacent units. Sr isotopic values of water and ammonium acetate leachates, representing soluble salt and clay-exchangeable fractions, fall within or just below the range measured for Marcellus produced waters, indicating that the waters? dissolved solids originate from within the shale. Acetic acid leaches targeting carbonate minerals yield 87Sr/86Sr ratios below those of the water and ammonium acetate leaches, but higher than those expected for Devonian seawater. Rb-Sr isotope systematics suggest mixing between a seawater-derived source and more radiogenic material, and multiple generations of carbonate mineral precipitation.} } @article{pittir15635, volume = {45}, number = {3}, month = {June}, author = {Wendy W Chapman and Guergana K Savova and Jiaping Zheng and Melissa Tharp and Rebecca Crowley}, title = {Anaphoric reference in clinical reports: Characteristics of an annotated corpus}, publisher = {Elsevier BV}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of Biomedical Informatics}, pages = {507 -- 521}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15635/} } @unpublished{pittir11064, month = {February}, title = {Deubiquitinating enzyme A20 and its role in NF-kappaB regulation: Implications for treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy}, author = {Rakshita A Charan}, year = {2012}, keywords = {NF-kappaB, A20, muscle regeneration}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11064/}, abstract = {Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is one of the most common muscle disorders affecting about 1 in 3500 male births worldwide. It is caused by mutations in the gene dystrophin, the protein product of which is required for muscle structure and stability. Studies suggest that lack of dystrophin protein leads to dystrophic pathology in skeletal muscle; an important pathologic mediator is nuclear factor kappa B (NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B), a transcription factor that regulates several genes responsible for stress responses, cell survival and various inflammatory conditions. NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B is pathologically activated in dystrophic muscle in DMD patients and in the mdx mouse model for DMD. NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B activation in mdx mice is thought to activate protein degradation and cause chronic inflammation in skeletal muscle. Furthermore, pathological activation of NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B downregulates myogenic regulatory factors and interferes with muscle regeneration. Attenuation of NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B activation in mdx mice has been shown to improve muscle stability and strength. Thus, strategies to inhibit NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B activation are being actively pursued as a therapeutic option for DMD. In this thesis, I have characterized the role of A20, a deubiquitinating enzyme known to attenuate NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B activation, in skeletal muscle and examined its potential as a therapeutic target to attenuate NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B activation in DMD. I investigated the effect of A20 on NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B activation in cultured mdx and control C57BL/10 myotubes in vitro and observed its role in muscle regeneration and differentiation. Characterization of A20 localization in mdx muscle demonstrated expression predominantly in regenerating fibers; interestingly, most were fast- twitch muscle fibers. This correlation between expression of an NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B inhibitor attenuating NF- {\ensuremath{\kappa}}B activation and pathology of DMD was a promising observation to further explore the efficacy of A20 as a therapeutic target. To this effect, I developed adeno-associated viral vectors carrying A20 expression cassettes to test the therapeutic benefit of A20 over-expression in the mdx model of DMD. Over-expression of A20 caused a significant decrease in NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B activation, an overall reduction in regeneration and number of inflammatory cells in skeletal muscle. These studies show that A20 could be pursued further as a therapeutic agent for inhibition of NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B activation, not only in DMD, but also in other disorders.} } @article{pittir29851, volume = {16}, number = {4}, month = {July}, title = {Permissive hypofiltration}, author = {LS Chawla and JA Kellum and C Ronco}, year = {2012}, journal = {Critical Care}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29851/}, abstract = {Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a syndrome with a multitude of causes and is associated with high mortality and a permanent loss of renal function. Our current understanding of the most common causes of AKI is limited, and thus a silver bullet therapy remains elusive. A change in the approach to AKI that shifts away from the primary composite endpoint of death/dialysis, and instead focuses on improving survival and mitigating permanent renal damage, is likely to be more fruitful. We suggest that the current approach of augmenting renal function by increasing the renal blood flow or glomerular filtration rate during AKI may actually worsen outcomes. Analogous to the approach towards adult respiratory distress syndrome that limits ventilator-induced lung injury, we propose the concept of permissive hypofiltration. The primary goals of this approach are: resting the kidney by providing early renal replacement therapy, avoiding the potentially injurious adverse events that occur during AKI (for example, fluid overload, hypophosphatemia, hypothermia, and so forth), and initiating therapies focused on improving survival and mitigating permanent loss of kidney function. {\copyright} 2012 BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir29842, volume = {6}, month = {September}, title = {An integer optimization algorithm for robust identification of non-linear gene regulatory networks}, author = {N Chemmangattuvalappil and K Task and I Banerjee}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Systems Biology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29842/}, abstract = {Background: Reverse engineering gene networks and identifying regulatory interactions are integral to understanding cellular decision making processes. Advancement in high throughput experimental techniques has initiated innovative data driven analysis of gene regulatory networks. However, inherent noise associated with biological systems requires numerous experimental replicates for reliable conclusions. Furthermore, evidence of robust algorithms directly exploiting basic biological traits are few. Such algorithms are expected to be efficient in their performance and robust in their prediction.Results: We have developed a network identification algorithm to accurately infer both the topology and strength of regulatory interactions from time series gene expression data in the presence of significant experimental noise and non-linear behavior. In this novel formulism, we have addressed data variability in biological systems by integrating network identification with the bootstrap resampling technique, hence predicting robust interactions from limited experimental replicates subjected to noise. Furthermore, we have incorporated non-linearity in gene dynamics using the S-system formulation. The basic network identification formulation exploits the trait of sparsity of biological interactions. Towards that, the identification algorithm is formulated as an integer-programming problem by introducing binary variables for each network component. The objective function is targeted to minimize the network connections subjected to the constraint of maximal agreement between the experimental and predicted gene dynamics. The developed algorithm is validated using both in silico and experimental data-sets. These studies show that the algorithm can accurately predict the topology and connection strength of the in silico networks, as quantified by high precision and recall, and small discrepancy between the actual and predicted kinetic parameters. Furthermore, in both the in silico and experimental case studies, the predicted gene expression profiles are in very close agreement with the dynamics of the input data.Conclusions: Our integer programming algorithm effectively utilizes bootstrapping to identify robust gene regulatory networks from noisy, non-linear time-series gene expression data. With significant noise and non-linearities being inherent to biological systems, the present formulism, with the incorporation of network sparsity, is extremely relevant to gene regulatory networks, and while the formulation has been validated against in silico and E. Coli data, it can be applied to any biological system. {\copyright} 2012 Chemmangattuvalappil et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir20837, volume = {2012}, month = {March}, title = {Human blood-vessel-derived stem cells for tissue repair and regeneration}, author = {CW Chen and M Corselli and B P{\'e}ault and J Huard}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of Biomedicine and Biotechnology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20837/}, abstract = {Multipotent stem/progenitor cells with similar developmental potentials have been independently identified from diverse human tissue/organ cultures. The increasing recognition of the vascular/perivascular origin of mesenchymal precursors suggested blood vessels being a systemic source of adult stem/progenitor cells. Our group and other laboratories recently isolated multiple stem/progenitor cell subsets from blood vessels of adult human tissues. Each of the three structural layers of blood vessels: intima, media, and adventitia has been found to include at least one precursor population, that is, myogenic endothelial cells (MECs), pericytes, and adventitial cells (ACs), respectively. MECs and pericytes efficiently regenerate myofibers in injured and dystrophic skeletal muscles as well as improve cardiac function after myocardial infarction. The applications of ACs in vascular remodeling and angiogenesis/vasculogenesis have been examined. Our recent finding that MECs and pericytes can be purified from cryogenically banked human primary muscle cell culture further indicates their potential applications in personalized regenerative medicine. Copyright 2012 Chien-Wen Chen et al.} } @unpublished{pittir12969, month = {September}, title = {The Role of Human Blood-Vessel-Derived Stem Cells in Tissue Repair and Regeneration}, author = {Chien-Wen Chen}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Pericyte, Myogenic Endothelial Cells, Adventitial Cells, Stem Cell Therapy, Regenerative medicine, Cardiac Repair}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12969/}, abstract = {Multipotent stem/progenitor cells have been identified in nearly all vascularized organs in the human body. Our research group recently discovered that human blood vessels harbor various stem/progenitor cell populace of mesodermal lineage, exhibiting common multi-lineage differentiation capacity and yet distinct cell lineage markers. Specifically, each of the three structural layers of blood vessels: intima, media, and adventitia, have been found to respectively include one of the three populations of precursor cells: myogenic endothelial cells (MECs), pericytes, and adventitial cells (ACs). Our studies have independently characterized each of ?Three Musketeers? and evaluated their myogenic capacity. Nevertheless, the therapeutic potential of pericytes in cardiac repair remains unknown, and whether pericytes natively residing in human heart possess similar stem cell characteristics and multipotency has not been investigated. Moreover, none of our prior studies has directly compared the regenerative efficacy between subpopulations of blood-vessel-derived stem cells (BVSCs), nor did we explore any alternative source, other than fresh tissue biopsies, to isolate BVSCs. My dissertation study aims to understand the role of subpopulations of BVSCs, pericytes in particular, and their relative efficiency in tissue repair/regeneration, with emphases in myocardial infarction and skeletal muscle injury. Specifically, my work has three independent yet related focuses: (I) to investigate the therapeutic efficacy of human pericyte transplantation and associated mechanisms of action in ischemic heart repair; (II) to characterize native human heart pericytes and examine whether tissue specificity exists between pericytes of different tissue origins; (III) to directly compare the myogenic potential between subpopulations of BVSCs and explore alternative source(s) of BVSCs that are more clinically accessible for skeletal muscle repair. The results of my studies showed that transplantation of human skeletal muscle-derived pericytes (SkMPs) repair the infarcted hearts more effectively than control and myoblast groups with their multiple restorative effects under hypoxia, including angiogenesis, anti-fibrosis, and anti-inflammation. Resident human heart pericytes (HPs) shared common similarity with pericytes of other tissues, such as typical pericyte and MSC marker expression, cell growth pattern in culture, and certain mesodermal developmental potential. Nevertheless, HPs differ from SkMPs in the lack of skeletal myogenic potential and differential angiogenic response under hypoxia, tissue-specific phenomena that were not observed previously. Additionally, in terms of skeletal myogenesis, MECs demonstrated superior efficiency to pericytes in vitro and in vivo. Finally, MECs and pericytes purified from long-term cryopreserved primary human muscle culture by cell sorting exhibited similar myogenic potential in vivo to their counterparts isolated from fresh biopsies, indicating cryopreservation of unpurified cells may serve as an alternative source of therapeutic myogenic precursors.} } @unpublished{pittir13081, month = {September}, title = {Cross-Lagged Analyses of Television Viewing and Cardiometabolic Risk: The Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults Study}, author = {Chung-Yu Chen}, year = {2012}, keywords = {television viewing, cardiometabolic risk, obesity, hostility}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13081/}, abstract = {Background: Little research has been done on the prospective associations between television viewing and cardiometabolic risk factor profiles and obesity in young adults. Additionally, individuals with high levels of hostility may be more susceptible to the influence of television viewing on cardiometabolic risk factor profiles. Objective: This study aimed to examine whether TV viewing is predictive of adverse cardiometabolic risk factor profiles (waist circumference, HOMA insulin resistance, fasting triglycerides, HDL-cholesterol, systolic blood pressure, and clustered cardiometabolic risk score) from young to middle adulthood in the U.S. adults. We also examined whether hostility personality trait modifies the association between TV viewing and cardiometabolic risk factor profiles. Methods: There were a total of 3,269 participants in a prospective study of Black and White adults aged 23 to 35 at examination year 5 in 1990/1. Cross-lagged panel models were analyzed at three 5-year time periods to test whether TV viewing predicts adverse cardiometabolic risk factor profiles. Results: Individuals who watched more TV were more likely to report adverse cardiometabolic risk factor profiles in the following 5 years. The prospective association between TV viewing and obesity was observed in young adulthood but not in middle adulthood. The cross-lagged effects of TV viewing on clustered cardiometabolic risk score were significant in the high hostility group but not in the low hostility group. Conclusion: These findings suggest that TV viewing is positively associated with adverse cardiometabolic risk factor profiles and that this association is modified by hostility. Public Health Significance: TV viewing and cardiometabolic risk are highly prevalent in our society. As such, even a modest association between the exposure and outcomes could have high public health significance. Our data suggest that reduction in TV viewing time, especially for people who reported high viewing time and with a propensity towards a hostile disposition, could reduce cardiometabolic risk.} } @unpublished{pittir11741, month = {June}, title = {Power Losses of Silicon Carbide MOSFET in HVDC Application}, author = {Hsin-Ju Chen}, year = {2012}, keywords = {SiC, MOSFET, switching loss, Semiconductor, PSCAD, Matlab/Simulink, simulation, HVDC application}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11741/}, abstract = {Silicon carbide devices have advantages of higher blocking voltage, lower conduction loss, and lower low junction operating temperature compared to silicon-based devices. There?s a need for more efficiency, economic and environmental friendly semiconductor devices for voltage source converter based high voltage direct current electric power transmission system application. This thesis compares a high power and high frequency operation of the SiC MOSFET with a conventional silicon IGBT module with similar power ratings in HVDC applications. An overview of the silicon carbide technology, power electronics and converter topology are also included. Two circuits were designed to compare the switching losses of SiC MOSFET with Si IGBT. The commercial SiC MOSFET QJD1210007 (1200V/100A) and Si IGBT CM100TF-24H (1200V/100A) were used in this study. PSCAD and Matlab/Simulink models of the devices were used to analyze the power losses. The models used in simulations are a preliminary evaluation of the device performance. The following studies were carried out: (i) A comparison between PSCAD and Matlab/Simulink simulation results for a push-pull converter, (ii) Switching power loss calculations via Matlab and accurate conduction loss estimation, (iii) and finally an experimental circuit was built to gather physical measurements to compare with the simulation results. The SiC MOSFET analytical was verified by comparing simulation with experimental switching waveforms. Based upon the experimental and analytical results, silicon carbide semiconductor devices have advantages over silicon IGBT and may replace them for HVDC applications. This thesis focuses on the simulation and physical circuit analysis.} } @article{pittir14173, volume = {7}, number = {4}, month = {April}, title = {Serum starvation induced cell cycle synchronization facilitates human somatic cells reprogramming}, author = {M Chen and J Huang and X Yang and B Liu and W Zhang and L Huang and F Deng and J Ma and Y Bai and R Lu and B Huang and Q Gao and Y Zhuo and J Ge}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14173/}, abstract = {Human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) provide a valuable model for regenerative medicine and human disease research. To date, however, the reprogramming efficiency of human adult cells is still low. Recent studies have revealed that cell cycle is a key parameter driving epigenetic reprogramming to pluripotency. As is well known, retroviruses such as the Moloney murine leukemia virus (MoMLV) require cell division to integrate into the host genome and replicate, whereas the target primary cells for reprogramming are a mixture of several cell types with different cell cycle rhythms. Whether cell cycle synchronization has potential effect on retrovirus induced reprogramming has not been detailed. In this study, utilizing transient serum starvation induced synchronization, we demonstrated that starvation generated a reversible cell cycle arrest and synchronously progressed through G2/M phase after release, substantially improving retroviral infection efficiency. Interestingly, synchronized human dermal fibroblasts (HDF) and adipose stem cells (ASC) exhibited more homogenous epithelial morphology than normal FBS control after infection, and the expression of epithelial markers such as E-cadherin and Epcam were strongly activated. Futhermore, synchronization treatment ultimately improved Nanog positive clones, achieved a 15-20 fold increase. These results suggested that cell cycle synchronization promotes the mesenchymal to epithelial transition (MET) and facilitates retrovirus mediated reprogramming. Our study, utilization of serum starvation rather than additional chemicals, provide a new insight into cell cycle regulation and induced reprogramming of human cells. {\copyright} 2012 Chen et al.} } @unpublished{pittir11500, month = {June}, title = {Nanowire and Fiber Composite Electromechanical Sensor}, author = {Qian Chen}, year = {2012}, keywords = {PZT fiber, ZnO nanowire, composite, piezoelectric, piezoresistive, electromechanical, sensor}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11500/}, abstract = {Fiber or nanowire composites offer many benefits for piezoelectric sensor and actuator applications. Piezoelectric composite is comprised of piezoelectric ceramics lain in polymer matrix. The composite with the piezoelectric ceramics connected in one direction and the polymer in three directions is named as 1-3 composite. 1-3 composites are most ordinary used and the anisotropic alignment of PZT in the composite may substantially lower lateral piezoelectric coupling and increases the sensitivity of the transducer mechanically. Piezoelectric fiber composites are suitable for sensor applications, medical diagnostics and nondestructive testing. Single crystal zinc-oxide nanowires were synthesized through a simple hydrothermal route and subsequently mixed with polyimide matrix to form ZnO nanocomposites. Superimposed a.c. and d.c. electric fields were applied to microscopically tailor the alignment of ZnO nanowires in polyimide matrix to form anisotropic nanocomposites. Piezoresistive property of ZnO nanocomposite was investigated for strain sensor application. A large gauge factor was obtained from the monotonic uniaxial stress-strain experiment for this nanocomposite and it is much higher than that of ordinary metal strain sensor. A low frequency fiber composite vibration sensor was fabricated and experimentally studied. The global parameters of the composite were substituted into lumped and distributed element constituent equations for piezoelectric unimorph to theoretically predict the sensitivity and effective frequency response range of the vibration sensor. An experiment was carried out to validate the result from the theoretical model. The output voltage per unit input displacement keeps stable in a wide frequency range with a suitable damping ratio. This PZT fiber composite sensor was also applied for soft material strain measurement and soft biomaterial surface morphology and elastic modulus characterization. From the theoretical evaluation and experiment result, this strain sensor is suitable for strain measurement with high sensitivity and high softness. A rectangular breathing sensor and an annular breathing sensor were fabricated for breathing rate and depth monitoring. Both sensors were tested under different physiological conditions and measurement results could be utilized for precaution and monitoring of breathing diseases. Both of them are excellent for monitoring breathing rate and depth and be nice choices for daily use and diagnose purpose.} } @article{pittir13488, volume = {17}, number = {4}, month = {August}, author = {S Chen and L Gruenwald and J Joshi and K Aberer}, title = {ACM/springer mobile networks and applications (MONET) special issue on collaborative computing: Networking, applications and worksharing}, journal = {Mobile Networks and Applications}, pages = {506 -- 507}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13488/} } @article{pittir23229, volume = {100}, number = {19}, month = {May}, title = {Distributed hydrogen sensing using in-fiber Rayleigh scattering}, author = {T Chen and Q Wang and R Chen and B Zhang and KP Chen and M Maklad and PR Swinehart}, year = {2012}, journal = {Applied Physics Letters}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/23229/}, abstract = {This letter reports a fully distributed hydrogen sensing technique using Rayleigh backscattering in palladium (Pd) and copper (Cu) coated optical fiber. The local in-fiber strain changes due to Pd hydrogen absorptions are interrogated spatially resolved optical frequency domain reflectrometry measurements of the Rayleigh signals. Electrical power is used to induce heating in the Pd coating, which accelerates both the hydrogen response and the sensor recycling. This technique promises an inexpensive and truly distributed fiber solution for continuous hydrogen leak detection with centimeter spatial resolution at room and low temperatures. {\copyright} 2012 American Institute of Physics.} } @article{pittir23227, volume = {37}, number = {6}, month = {March}, author = {T Chen and Q Wang and R Chen and B Zhang and C Jewart and KP Chen and M Maklad and PR Swinehart}, title = {Distributed high-temperature pressure sensing using air-hole microstructural fibers}, journal = {Optics Letters}, pages = {1064 -- 1066}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/23227/}, abstract = {We present spatially resolved Rayleigh scattering measurements in different polarization-maintaining (PM) fibers for high-temperature pressure sensing. The pressure-induced birefringence in the fiber cores is interrogated using polarization-resolved frequency-swept interferometry. The pressure responses of a PM photonic crystal fiber and a twin-air-hole PM fiber are investigated for a pressure range of 0 to 13.8 MPa (0-2000 psi) at room temperature and at temperatures as high as 800 ?C. The proposed sensing system provides, for the first time to our knowledge, a truly distributed pressure-sensing solution for high-temperature applications. {\copyright} 2012 Optical Society of America.} } @article{pittir23057, volume = {51}, number = {26}, month = {September}, author = {T Chen and Q Wang and R Chen and B Zhang and Y Lin and KP Chen}, title = {Distributed liquid level sensors using self-heated optical fibers for cryogenic liquid management}, journal = {Applied Optics}, pages = {6282 -- 6289}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/23057/}, abstract = {We present a continuous liquid level sensing system for both room temperature and cryogenic fluids with millimeter spatial resolution. Change of in-fiber Rayleigh backscattering signal from the distinct thermal response of the heated sensing fiber in liquid and in air were interrogated and spatially resolved using the optical frequency domain reflectometry. Both electrical and optical heating techniques were investigated for cryogenic liquid applications at 4 K, 77 K, and the room temperature. The successful combination of self-heated fiber and wavelength-swept Rayleigh scattering interferometry provides, for the first time to our best knowledge, a truly distributed fuel gauge with high spatial resolution for cryogenic fuel storage, transportation, and management on ground and in space. {\copyright} 2012 Optical Society of America.} } @article{pittir23224, volume = {20}, number = {8}, month = {April}, author = {T Chen and Q Wang and B Zhang and R Chen and KP Chen}, title = {Distributed flow sensing using optical hot-wire grid}, journal = {Optics Express}, pages = {8240 -- 8249}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/23224/}, abstract = {An optical hot-wire flow sensing grid is presented using a single piece of self-heated optical fiber to perform distributed flow measurement. The flow-induced temperature loss profiles along the fiber are interrogated by the in-fiber Rayleigh backscattering, and spatially resolved in millimeter resolution using optical frequency domain reflectometry (OFDR). The flow rate, position, and flow direction are retrieved simultaneously. Both electrical and optical on-fiber heating were demonstrated to suit different flow sensing applications. {\copyright} 2012 Optical Society of America.} } @unpublished{pittir11722, month = {June}, title = {Fiber Optic Sensors for Extreme Environments}, author = {Tong Chen}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Fiber Sensor}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11722/}, abstract = {Optical fiber based sensors offer several important advantages over electronic sensors, including low manufacturing cost, miniature and flexible structures, immunities to electromagnetic fields, and the capability of distributive and multi-parameter sensing on a single fiber. Extreme harsh environments such as temperature {\ensuremath{>}}800?C or as low as a few Kelvin, present unique challenges and opportunities to fiber optic sensors. For example, hydrogen gas leak detection in cryogenic environment is critically important in the production and use of liquid hydrogen fuels. But the sensitivity of conventional Palladium (Pd) coated hydrogen sensors degrade rapidly when temperature decreases. Another example is the quick diminishing of conventional type-I gratings with temperature range beyond 500?C, which prevent the FBG implementation in numerous high temperature applications. The objective of this thesis is to explore new fiber sensing technologies that have significant performance enhancements, or were previously not possible in extreme environment applications. Optically heated fiber sensors were developed for cryogenic Hydrogen gas and liquid level sensing in environments as well as room temperature gas flow sensing. Regenerated gratings were developed for high temperature pressure sensing. Novel in-fiber sensing techniques such as Rayleigh and Raman scattering were also exploited for fully distributed sensing operations. These technologies and devices offer reliable and flexible sensing solutions extreme environments in energy, transportation and telecom industry. } } @unpublished{pittir16551, month = {November}, title = {FINE-GRAINED DYNAMIC VOLTAGE SCALING ON OLED DISPLAY}, author = {Xiang Chen}, year = {2012}, keywords = {OLED, Dynamic Voltage Scaling, Power, Driver Circuit.}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16551/}, abstract = {Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED) has emerged as a new generation of display techniques for mobile devices. Emitting light with organic fluorescent materials OLED display panels are thinner, brighter, lighter, cheaper and more power efficient, compared to other display technologies such as Liquid Crystal Displays (LCD). In present mobile devices, due to the battery capacity limitation and increasing daily usage, the power efficiency significantly affect the general performance and user experience. However, display panel even built with OLEDs is still the biggest contributor to a mobile device?s total power consumption. In this thesis, a fine-grained dynamic voltage scaling (FDVS) technique is proposed to reduce the OLED display power consumption. In bottom level, based on dynamic voltage scaling (DVS) power optimization, a DVS-friendly AMOLED driver design is proposed to enhance the color accuracy of the OLED pixels under scaled down supply voltage. Correspondingly, the OLED panel is partitioned into multiple display sections and each section?s supply voltage is adaptively adjusted to implement fine-grained DVS with display content. When applied to display image, some optimization algorithm and methods are developed to select suitable scaled voltage and maintain display quality with Structural Similarity Index (SSIM), which is an image distortion evaluation criteria based on human vision system (HVS). Experimental results show that, the FDVS technique can achieve 28.44\%{\texttt{\char126}}39.24\% more power saving on images. Further analysis shows FDVS technology can also effectively reduce the color remapping cost when color compensation is required to improve the image quality of an OLED panel working at a scaled supplied voltage.} } @unpublished{pittir10530, month = {January}, title = {CHEMICAL KINETICS AND INTERACTIONS INVOLVED IN HORSERADISH PEROXIDASE-MEDIATED OXIDATIVE POLYMERIZATION OF PHENOLIC COMPOUNDS}, author = {wenjing Cheng}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Estrogen, Horseradish Peroxidase, Enzymatic Oxidative Coupling, Wastewater}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10530/}, abstract = {To address the growing need for removing the emerging endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs), the enzyme-based oxidative coupling reaction is suggested as promising alternative in consideration of its generally high specificity and removal efficiency on treatment of waters containing estrogenic phenolic chemicals. Various factors that affect the reaction rate of oxidative coupling (OXC) reaction of phenolic estrogens catalyzed by Horseradish Peroxidase (HRP) were evaluated in this study. Kinetic parameters were obtained for the removal of phenol as well as natural and synthetic estrogens estrone (E1), 17{\ensuremath{\beta}}-estradiol (E2), estriol (E3), and 17{\ensuremath{\alpha}}-ethinylestradiol (EE2). Molecular orbital theory and Autodock software were employed to analyze chemical properties and substrate binding characteristics. It is found that the reactions were first order with respect to phenolic concentration and reaction rate constants (kr) were determined for phenol, E3, E1, E2 and EE2 (in increasing order). It is also found that oxidative coupling was controlled by enzyme-substrate interactions, not diffusion. Docking simulations show that higher binding energy and shorter binding distance both promote more favorable kinetics. This research is the first to show that the OXC of phenolics is an entropy-driven and enthalpy-retarded process. } } @unpublished{pittir12971, month = {September}, title = {Host Galaxy Properties of CaII and NaI Quasar Absorption-Line Systems}, author = {Brian Cherinka}, year = {2012}, keywords = {SDSS, Sloan Digital Sky Survey, optical, absorption, algorithm, interstellar medium, spectra, stacking, HI, 21 cm, Ca II, Na I, quasar, statistics, K-S, Mann-Whitney U}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12971/}, abstract = {Many questions remain within the areas of galaxy formation and evolution. Understanding the origin of gas in galaxy environments, whether as tidal debris, infalling High Velocity Clouds, galaxy outflows, or as gaseous material residing in galaxy disks, is an important step in answering those questions. Quasar absorption-lines can often be used to probe the environments of intervening galaxies. Traditionally, quasar absorption-lines are studied independently of the host galaxy but this method denies us the exploration of the connection between galaxy and environment. Instead, one can select pairs of known galaxies and quasars. This gives much more information regarding the host galaxy and allows us to better connect galaxy properties with associated absorbers. We use the seventh data release of the Sloan Digital Sky Survey to generate a sample of spectroscopic galaxy-quasar pairs. We cross-correlated a sample of 105,000 quasars and {\texttt{\char126}}800,000 galaxies to produce {\texttt{\char126}}98,000 galaxy-quasar pairs, with the quasar projected within 100 kpc of the galaxy. Adopting an automated line-finding algorithm and using the galaxy redshift as a prior, we search through all quasar spectra and identify CaII and NaI absorption due to the intervening galaxy. This procedure produced 1745 Ca{\texttt{\char126}}II absorbers and 4500 NaI absorbers detected at or above 2-sigma. Stacking analysis of a subset of absorbers at z{\ensuremath{>}}0.01, with significances at or above 3-sigma, showed strong CaII and NaI features around external galaxies. Using the same subset of absorbers at z{\ensuremath{>}}0.01, we looked for correlations between absorber and galaxy properties and examined differences in galaxy properties between the absorbers and non-absorbers. We found no correlations with absorber strength or differences between many galaxy properties at the 3-sigma level. The lack of correlations and differences between absorbers and non-absorbers suggest a ubiquitous nature for CaII and NaI around all types of galaxies, with the absorbers showing no geometric preference within galaxy halos. This suggests a possible origin as leftover debris from past mergers that has been redistributed within the halo over time. The main results are presented in Chapters 3 and 4, with complimentary work presented in Chapter 5. } } @unpublished{pittir11979, month = {May}, title = {Comparatively advantaged: economic diversity, unemployment, and international trade}, author = {Tom Chidiac}, year = {2012}, keywords = {International trade, Unemployment, Diversification, Diversity, Capital intensity, Instability}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11979/}, abstract = {Theoretical models of international trade suggest that countries will specialize in the industry that affords the greatest comparative advantage. Yet, many policy makers counsel diversification as a way to insulate national economies from exogenous shocks and reduce unemployment. This paper posits a hypothesis of how international trade affects economic diversity and steady-state unemployment, based on a dynamic interpretation of Ricardian and Hecksher-Ohlin models of trade. Subsequent data analysis provides evidence supporting our supposition, suggesting that there are strong links between the degree of specialization and the long run level of unemployment. Our findings lead us to question prevailing conventional wisdom, and we suggest alternative ways small countries can enjoy the benefits of economic diversification. } } @inproceedings{pittir18987, booktitle = {2012 IEEE/RSJ International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems (IROS 2012)}, month = {October}, title = {Scheduling operator attention for Multi-Robot Control}, author = {Shih-Yi Chien and Michael Lewis and Siddharth Mehrotra and Nathan Brooks and Katia Sycara}, publisher = {IEEE}, year = {2012}, journal = {2012 IEEE/RSJ International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18987/} } @inproceedings{pittir18988, booktitle = {2012 IEEE International Conference on Systems, Man and Cybernetics - SMC}, month = {October}, title = {Effects of unreliable automation in scheduling operator attention for multi-robot control}, author = {Shih-Yi Chien and Michael Lewis and Siddharth Mehrotra and Katia Sycara}, publisher = {IEEE}, year = {2012}, journal = {2012 IEEE International Conference on Systems, Man, and Cybernetics (SMC)}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18988/} } @inproceedings{pittir30133, month = {May}, author = {Mazviita Chirimuuta and Kamen A Tsvetanov and Glyn W Humphreys}, note = {Competing Interests: No competing interests were disclosed}, booktitle = {Vision Sciences Society Annual Meeting 2012}, title = {Attentional effects of working memory load and consolidation during visual search}, publisher = {F1000 Research Ltd.}, journal = {F1000 Research}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/30133/}, abstract = {We examined how working memory (WM) load interacts with the effect of altering the time lag between the memory cue and search displays, separating out effects from different serial positions in WM. There is differential activation in WM as a function of the serial position of stimuli. Search is most strongly modulated when WM is being consolidated, but that substantial WM effects remain even after consolidation has taken place.} } @unpublished{pittir13537, month = {September}, title = {Prediction in the Joint Modeling of Mixed Types of Multivariate Longitudinal Outcomes and a Time-to-Event Outcome}, author = {Jiin Choi}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Joint model; Mixed binary and continuous data; Multivariate longitudinal data; Prediction model; Shared parameter model; Survival analysis}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13537/}, abstract = {A common goal of longitudinal studies is to relate a set of repeated observations to a time-to-event endpoint. One example of such a design is in the area of a late-life depression research where repeated measurement of cognitive and functional outcomes can contribute to one's ability to predict whether or not an individual will have a major depressive episode over a period of time. This research proposes a novel model for the relationship between multivariate longitudinal measurements and a time-to-event outcome. The goal of this model is to improve prediction for the time-to-event outcome by considering all longitudinal measurements simultaneously. In this dissertation, we investigate a joint modeling approach for mixed types of multivariate longitudinal outcomes and a time-to-event outcome using a Bayesian paradigm. For the longitudinal model of continuous and binary outcomes, we formulate multivariate generalized linear mixed models with two types of random effects structures: shared random effects and correlated random effects. For the joint model, the longitudinal outcomes and the time-to-event outcome are assumed to be independent conditional on available covariates and the shared parameters, which are associated with the random effects of the longitudinal outcome processes. A Bayesian method using Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) computed in OpenBUGS is implemented for parameter estimation. We illustrate the prediction of future event probabilities within a fixed time interval for patients based on our joint model, utilizing baseline data, post-baseline longitudinal measurements, and the time-to-event outcome. Prediction of event or mortality probabilities allows one to intervene clinically when appropriate. Hence, such methods provide a useful public health tool at both the individual and the population levels. The proposed joint model is applied to data sets on the maintenance therapies in a late-life depression study and the mortality in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The performance of the method is also evaluated in extensive simulation studies.} } @unpublished{pittir16309, month = {November}, type = {Working Paper}, title = {Credibility-Based Binary Feedback Model for Grid Resource Planning}, author = {Parasak Chokesatean and Martin BH Weiss}, year = {2012}, institution = {University of Pittsburgh}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16309/}, abstract = {In commercial grids, Grid Service Providers (GSPs) can improve their profitability by maintaining the lowest possible amount of resources to meet client demand. Their goal is to maximize profits by optimizing resource planning. In order to achieve this goal, they require an estimate of the demand for their service, but collecting demand data is costly and difficult. In this paper we develop an approach to building a proxy for demand, which we call a value profile. To construct a value profile, we use binary feedback from a collection of heterogeneous clients. We show that this can be used as a proxy for a demand function that represents a client?s willingness-to-pay for grid resources. As with all binary feedback systems, clients may require incentives to provide feedback and deterrents to selfish behavior, such as misrepresenting their true preferences to obtain superior services at lower costs. We use credibility mechanisms to detect untruthful feedback and penalize insincere or biased clients. Finally, we use game theory to study how cooperation can emerge in this community of clients and GSPs.} } @article{pittir29811, volume = {12}, month = {October}, title = {Clinicopathologic characteristics of high expression of Bmi-1 in esophageal adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma}, author = {B Choy and S Bandla and Y Xia and D Tan and A Pennathur and JD Luketich and TE Godfrey and JH Peters and J Sun and Z Zhou}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Gastroenterology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29811/}, abstract = {Background: High expression of Bmi-1, a key regulatory component of the polycomb repressive complex-1, has been associated with many solid and hematologic malignancies including esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. However, little is known about the role of Bmi-1 in esophageal adenocarcinoma. The aim of this study is to investigate the amplification and high expression of Bmi-1 and the associated clinicopathologic characteristics in esophageal adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.Methods: The protein expression level of Bmi-1 was detected by immunohistochemistry (IHC) from tissue microarrays (TMA) constructed at the University of Rochester from using tissues accrued between 1997 and 2005. Types of tissues included adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and precancerous lesions. Patients' survival data, demographics, histologic diagnoses and tumor staging data were collected. The intensity (0-3) and percentage of Bmi-1 expression on TMA slides were scored by two pathologists. Genomic DNA from 116 esophageal adenocarcinoma was analyzed for copy number aberrations using Affymetrix SNP 6.0 arrays. Fisher exact tests and Kaplan-Meier methods were used to analyze data.Results: By IHC, Bmi-1 was focally expressed in the basal layers of almost all esophageal squamous mucosa, which was similar to previous reports in other organs related to stem cells. High Bmi-1 expression significantly increased from squamous epithelium (7\%), columnar cell metaplasia (22\%), Barrett's esophagus (22\%), to low- (45\%) and high-grade dysplasia (43\%) and adenocarcinoma (37\%). The expression level of Bmi-1 was significantly associated with esophageal adenocarcinoma differentiation. In esophageal adenocarcinoma, Bmi-1 amplification was detected by DNA microarray in a low percentage (3\%). However, high Bmi-1 expression did not show an association with overall survival in both esophageal adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.Conclusions: This study demonstrates that high expression Bmi-1 is associated with esophageal adenocarcinoma and precancerous lesions, which implies that Bmi-1 plays an important role in early carcinogenesis in esophageal adenocarcinoma. {\copyright} 2012 Choy et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir29783, volume = {8}, month = {December}, title = {Genetic association between APOE*4 and neuropsychiatric symptoms in patients with probable Alzheimer's disease is dependent on the psychosis phenotype}, author = {D Christie and J Shofer and SP Millard and E Li and MA DeMichele-Sweet and EA Weamer and MI Kamboh and OL Lopez and RA Sweet and D Tsuang}, year = {2012}, journal = {Behavioral and Brain Functions}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29783/}, abstract = {Background: Neuropsychiatric symptoms such as psychosis are prevalent in patients with probable Alzheimer's disease (AD) and are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Because these disabling symptoms are generally not well tolerated by caregivers, patients with these symptoms tend to be institutionalized earlier than patients without them. The identification of protective and risk factors for neuropsychiatric symptoms in AD would facilitate the development of more specific treatments for these symptoms and thereby decrease morbidity and mortality in AD. The E4 allele of the apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene is a well-documented risk factor for the development of AD. However, genetic association studies of the APOE 4 allele and BPS in AD have produced conflicting findings.Methods: This study investigates the association between APOE and neuropsychiatric symptoms in a large sample of clinically well-characterized subjects with probable AD (n=790) who were systematically evaluated using the Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer's Disease (CERAD) Behavioral Rating Scale for Dementia (BRSD).Results: Our study found that hallucinations were significantly more likely to occur in subjects with no APO?4 alleles than in subjects with two ?4 alleles (15\% of subjects and 5\% of subjects, respectively; p=.0066), whereas there was no association between the occurrence of delusions, aberrant motor behavior, or agitation and the number of ?4 alleles. However, 94\% of the subjects with hallucinations also had delusions (D+H).Conclusion: These findings suggest that in AD the ?4 allele is differentially associated with D+H but not delusions alone. This is consistent with the hypothesis that distinct psychotic subphenotypes may be associated with the APOE allele. {\copyright} 2012 Christie et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir11900, month = {June}, title = {An Exploration of Service Delivery Models in Genetic Counseling: A Thematic Analysis }, author = {Rachelle Christie}, year = {2012}, keywords = {genetic counseling, service delivery models, thematic analysis }, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11900/}, abstract = {Because genetic counseling is a relatively young field, there is little research on how genetic counseling services are delivered. The majority of the literature on genetic counseling models comes from Great Britain and Wales, so does not accurately represent the limitations and barriers experienced within the United States. Thus, this study sought to provide information regarding service delivery models used in the practice of genetic counseling, identifying limitations and barriers to these models, as well as potential advantages. A qualitative research design was employed, in which 20 practicing genetic counselors that utilize unique service delivery models were interviewed using an email interview format. Interview transcripts were analyzed using a thematic analysis, and themes relating to the research question were identified and presented. Two major themes were identified: 1.) Alternative service delivery models offer convenience for both the patients and the genetic counselors; and 2.) Logistical issues are a major barrier to implementing alternative service delivery models into clinical practice. Results of this research will give genetic counselors and other health care professionals a way to better assess and evaluate the genetic counseling service models that are currently being used. This work also has public health relevance. By researching and understanding alternative service delivery models, the hope is to make genetic counseling services more accessible by creating increasing access to genetic counseling by addressing the increasing demand for genetic testing and counseling among the population. } } @article{pittir29884, volume = {14}, number = {3}, month = {June}, title = {Early diagnosis to enable early treatment of pre-osteoarthritis}, author = {CR Chu and AA Williams and CH Coyle and ME Bowers}, year = {2012}, journal = {Arthritis Research and Therapy}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29884/}, abstract = {Osteoarthritis is a prevalent and disabling disease affecting an increasingly large swathe of the world population. While clinical osteoarthritis is a late-stage condition for which disease-modifying opportunities are limited, osteoarthritis typically develops over decades, offering a long window of time to potentially alter its course. The etiology of osteoarthritis is multifactorial, showing strong associations with highly modifiable risk factors of mechanical overload, obesity and joint injury. As such, characterization of pre-osteoarthritic disease states will be critical to support a paradigm shift from palliation of late disease towards prevention, through early diagnosis and early treatment of joint injury and degeneration to reduce osteoarthritis risk. Joint trauma accelerates development of osteoarthritis from a known point in time. Human joint injury cohorts therefore provide a unique opportunity for evaluation of pre-osteoarthritic conditions and potential interventions from the earliest stages of degeneration. This review focuses on recent advances in imaging and biochemical biomarkers suitable for characterization of the pre-osteoarthritic joint as well as implications for development of effective early treatment strategies. {\copyright} 2012 BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir11904, month = {June}, title = {Not Bad, For a Man: Shifting Standards in the Provision of Emotional Support Within Romantic Relationships}, author = {Melinda Marie Ciccocioppo}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Relationships Social Support Gender Stereotypes}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11904/}, abstract = {Previous research has found mixed results in terms of gender differences in the provision of emotional support to a relationship partner. Some studies support the popular stereotype that women are more emotionally supportive than men, while others find no gender differences in the amount of emotional support men and women provide to one another in a romantic relationship. These conflicting findings may be the result of shifting standards for men and women in terms of the amount of emotional support that is expected to be provided by each within a relationship. Since women are stereotypically assumed to be more nurturing and emotionally supportive than men, more emotional support will be expected of them in comparison with men who are assumed to be unemotional and largely unsupportive of their partners. Therefore, women will be held to a higher standard than men with regard to the provision of emotional support. The purpose of the current study was to test this shifting standards effect as it relates to the provision of emotional support within dating relationships. Heterosexual male and female undergraduates currently involved in a dating relationship were asked to rate their partners? provision of emotional support using either an objective scale or a subjective scale. It was predicted that objective ratings of emotional support provision would reflect stereotypical gender differences with women being rated as providing more support than men. However, subjective ratings, which are subject to shifting standards, would not display gender differences in the provision of emotional support. These results were predicted to be associated with within-gender social comparison and adherence to gender stereotypes. Contrary to predictions, women rated their partners as providing significantly more emotional support than men on both the objective and subjective scales. Despite this fact, analyses of items measuring within-gender and between-gender comparisons revealed that participants adhered to the stereotype that women typically provide more emotional support than men. Ratings of emotional support provision were related to adherence to benevolent stereotypes about men and women, especially for men. The implications of these surprising results and suggestions for future research are discussed. } } @article{pittir12714, volume = {7}, number = {5}, month = {May}, title = {Colorectal cancer linkage on chromosomes 4q21, 8q13, 12q24, and 15q22}, author = {MS Cicek and JM Cunningham and BL Fridley and DJ Serie and WR Bamlet and B Diergaarde and RW Haile and L Le Marchand and TG Krontiris and HB Younghusband and S Gallinger and PA Newcomb and JL Hopper and MA Jenkins and G Casey and F Schumacher and Z Chen and MS DeRycke and AS Templeton and I Winship and RC Green and JS Green and FA Macrae and S Parry and GP Young and JP Young and D Buchanan and DC Thomas and DT Bishop and NM Lindor and SN Thibodeau and JD Potter and EL Goode}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12714/}, abstract = {A substantial proportion of familial colorectal cancer (CRC) is not a consequence of known susceptibility loci, such as mismatch repair (MMR) genes, supporting the existence of additional loci. To identify novel CRC loci, we conducted a genome-wide linkage scan in 356 white families with no evidence of defective MMR (i.e., no loss of tumor expression of MMR proteins, no microsatellite instability (MSI)-high tumors, or no evidence of linkage to MMR genes). Families were ascertained via the Colon Cancer Family Registry multi-site NCI-supported consortium (Colon CFR), the City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, and Memorial University of Newfoundland. A total of 1,612 individuals (average 5.0 per family including 2.2 affected) were genotyped using genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphism linkage arrays; parametric and non-parametric linkage analysis used MERLIN in a priori-defined family groups. Five lod scores greater than 3.0 were observed assuming heterogeneity. The greatest were among families with mean age of diagnosis less than 50 years at 4q21.1 (dominant HLOD = 4.51, {\ensuremath{\alpha}} = 0.84, 145.40 cM, rs10518142) and among all families at 12q24.32 (dominant HLOD = 3.60, {\ensuremath{\alpha}} = 0.48, 285.15 cM, rs952093). Among families with four or more affected individuals and among clinic-based families, a common peak was observed at 15q22.31 (101.40 cM, rs1477798; dominant HLOD = 3.07, {\ensuremath{\alpha}} = 0.29; dominant HLOD = 3.03, {\ensuremath{\alpha}} = 0.32, respectively). Analysis of families with only two affected individuals yielded a peak at 8q13.2 (recessive HLOD = 3.02, {\ensuremath{\alpha}} = 0.51, 132.52 cM, rs1319036). These previously unreported linkage peaks demonstrate the continued utility of family-based data in complex traits and suggest that new CRC risk alleles remain to be elucidated. {\copyright} 2012 Cicek et al.} } @unpublished{pittir16966, month = {December}, title = {Effectiveness of School-based Chlamydia Screening: A Literature Review}, school = {University of Pittsburgh}, author = {Katherine A Clark}, publisher = {University of Pittsburgh}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16966/}, abstract = {Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) is the most commonly reported notifiable sexually transmitted disease (STD) in the United States (1). In women, chlamydia can result in serious sequelae, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), chronic pelvic pain, tubal factor infertility, and ectopic pregnancy (1-3). In men, chlamydial infection can cause epididymitis, an inflammation of the epididymis, which in complicated cases can lead to scrotal abscess, testicular infarction, and infertility (1, 4). As a part of Healthy People 2020, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has defined a nationwide objective to reduce the number of adolescents infected with CT (5). In an effort to reduce the public health burden of CT in adolescents, school-based screening has been initiated in cities across the country. A critical review of studies reporting the results of CT screening initiatives in schools and other non-traditional settings was published in 2005 (6). Since that time, additional studies have been published reporting results of new and existing school-based screening initiatives. The purpose of this literature review is to critically assess the effectiveness of school-based chlamydia screening programs, as measured by recruitment of high-school aged males and females for screening, the detection chlamydial infection, and reinfection/rescreening rates. The majority of the studies available for review are cross-sectional prevalence reports of the screening uptake and CT prevalence detected in specific programs or specific SBHCs over different periods of time. This makes comparison of the effectiveness of programs and SBHCs difficult. SBHC screening had a lower average screening uptake then did school-based programs, though only one study reviewed provided screening coverage information for SBHCs. This study saw screening uptake ranging from 17\%-56\% in SBHCs, while the screening uptake in school-based programs ranged from 30.9\%- 47.6\% (7-9). All school-based programs had a larger screening uptake in males relative to females. All urban screening programs showed higher rates of CT positivity in females versus males, despite males having a higher screening uptake. In the two, reinfection studies evaluated, reinfection rates were high, ranging from 13.6\% in a SBHC to 26.3\% in a school-based program. Strengths and limitations of all reviewed studies are reported, as well as directions for future research.} } @unpublished{pittir13466, month = {August}, title = {EXPERIENCE OF MANAGING ESRD DIETARY MODIFICATIONS}, author = {Maya Clark}, year = {2012}, keywords = {End stage renal disease, behavioral research, dietary behavior, health care disparities}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13466/}, abstract = {Aims: The purpose of this mixed-methods study is to explore the impact of participant characteristics on dietary patterns, adherence, perceived problems, and self-efficacy; identify characteristics of hemodialysis patients most likely to experience difficulty adhering to restrictions; and to explore perceived dietary related barriers experienced in this patient population. Methods: A secondary analysis using data of 122 participants from an ongoing randomized clinical trial examining the effects of a technology supported behavioral intervention on dietary sodium intake in hemodialysis patients was performed. Semi-structured interviews were conducted on a subset of 30 participants to complete the qualitative analysis. Results: Younger participants were more likely to report problems managing the hemodialysis diet and low self-efficacy for restricting sodium intake. Consistent with these findings, younger participants had a higher median sodium intake and average daily weight gain. Females reported more problems managing the diet. Race and perceived income adequacy did not appear to influence outcome measures. Barriers included time and convenience, cost, and content of nutritional counseling. Participants were satisfied with efforts made by dialysis center staff to disseminate information. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that there may not be a need to customize interventions in regard to race or income adequacy. There may, however, be a need to customize counseling and interventions for younger adults and females. Further investigation is needed to understand the independent effects of age and gender on variations in hemodialysis dietary recommendations and problems and self-efficacy. Additionally, while participants were satisfied with nutritional counseling efforts, interventions which improve food choices and decision making in real time would be helpful. } } @unpublished{pittir11837, month = {June}, title = {European Fascists and Local Activists: Romania's Legion of the Archangel Michael}, author = {Roland Clark}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Fascism; Legion of the Archangel Michael; Codreanu; Romania; Iron Guard; Alltagsgeschichte}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11837/}, abstract = {In interwar Europe, ?fascism? referred to a diffuse collection of independent movements and regimes that used similar symbols, gestures, and activities to pioneer a distinctive style of politics. The Legion of the Archangel Michael, also known as the Iron Guard, was one of the largest fascist social movements in interwar Europe. This dissertation examines how rank and file Legionaries experienced and articulated their political affiliations as members of the Legion, and more broadly as part of a global fascist network. Official repression, fascist aesthetics, and the demands of Legionary activism meant that becoming a Legionary involved far more than giving intellectual assent to a clearly articulated set of ideas. It changed activists? everyday activities and life trajectories in profound ways. From the late nineteenth century onwards, Romanian ultra-nationalists organized to eliminate Jews, Freemasons, Communists, and political corruption from their society. Anti-Semitic violence increased in the universities in 1922, and extremist students engaged in mob violence, vandalism, and assassination. Ultra-nationalist activists built connections with racists abroad, but they based their movement on ways of thinking about Jews and Romanians that derived from nineteenth century nationalism. In 1927 Corneliu Zelea Codreanu and a small group followers split with other ultra-nationalists to form the Legion of the Archangel Michael. Legionaries gradually took over the anti-Semitic student movement by using a combination of violence, terrorism, and pious rhetoric. Elections were usually violent affairs for Legionaries, who flouted the law but also ran work camps, restaurants, and businesses. Legionaries described the Legion as a school for creating ?new men? who would bring about national rebirth. Creating ?new men? meant belonging to a hierarchical organization that expected total obedience from its members. Legionaries committed time, money and energy to expanding their movement and risked imprisonment and even death in return. They spoke about continuing the national struggle of their ancestors, but used uniforms, gestures, and symbols that identified them as part of a Europe-wide fascist current. } } @article{pittir15587, volume = {7}, number = {7}, month = {July}, title = {Developing cardiac and skeletal muscle share fast-skeletal myosin heavy chain and cardiac troponin-I expression}, author = {KC Clause and J Tchao and MC Powell and LJ Liu and J Huard and BB Keller and K Tobita}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15587/}, abstract = {Skeletal muscle derived stem cells (MDSCs) transplanted into injured myocardium can differentiate into fast skeletal muscle specific myosin heavy chain (sk-fMHC) and cardiac specific troponin-I (cTn-I) positive cells sustaining recipient myocardial function. We have recently found that MDSCs differentiate into a cardiomyocyte phenotype within a three-dimensional gel bioreactor. It is generally accepted that terminally differentiated myocardium or skeletal muscle only express cTn-I or sk-fMHC, respectively. Studies have shown the presence of non-cardiac muscle proteins in the developing myocardium or cardiac proteins in pathological skeletal muscle. In the current study, we tested the hypothesis that normal developing myocardium and skeletal muscle transiently share both sk-fMHC and cTn-I proteins. Immunohistochemistry, western blot, and RT-PCR analyses were carried out in embryonic day 13 (ED13) and 20 (ED20), neonatal day 0 (ND0) and 4 (ND4), postnatal day 10 (PND10), and 8 week-old adult female Lewis rat ventricular myocardium and gastrocnemius muscle. Confocal laser microscopy revealed that sk-fMHC was expressed as a typical striated muscle pattern within ED13 ventricular myocardium, and the striated sk-fMHC expression was lost by ND4 and became negative in adult myocardium. cTn-I was not expressed as a typical striated muscle pattern throughout the myocardium until PND10. Western blot and RT-PCR analyses revealed that gene and protein expression patterns of cardiac and skeletal muscle transcription factors and sk-fMHC within ventricular myocardium and skeletal muscle were similar at ED20, and the expression patterns became cardiac or skeletal muscle specific during postnatal development. These findings provide new insight into cardiac muscle development and highlight previously unknown common developmental features of cardiac and skeletal muscle. {\copyright} 2012 Clause et al.} } @unpublished{pittir12914, month = {October}, title = {An Investigation in Oxidative Cation Formation: The Total Synthesis of Lactodehydrothyrsiferol and Synthetic Application for a Bimolecular Carbon?Carbon Bond Forming Reaction}, author = {Dane J Clausen}, year = {2012}, keywords = {total synthesis, oxidative chemistry, cascade reactions, Carbon?Carbon bond forming reaction, Carbon?Hydrogen functionalization}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12914/}, abstract = {The first total synthesis of lactodehydrothyrsiferol, a selective inhibitor of protein phosphatase 2A, was accomplished through the application of our electron-transfer-initiated cyclization reaction. Other highlights of our synthetic strategy include a novel method for the formation of 1,1-disubstuted vinyl iodides from a terminal alkyne, a Suzuki-Miyaura cross coupling reaction on a iodinated allylic carbonate, a one pot diepoxidation of a diene to generate two epoxides with opposite stereochemical identities, an asymmetric Nozaki-Hiyama-Kishi reaction, and the selective deoxygenation of a triol. This document will focus on the key epoxide cascade and completion of the synthesis. An oxidative method to form Carbon?Carbon bonds through Carbon?Hydrogen bond cleavage is described herein. Chromene and isochromene both form aromatically stabilized oxocarbenium ions in the presence of 2,3-dichloro-5,6-dicyano-1,4-benzoquinone (DDQ). The reactivity of these cations was explored with a variety of nucleophiles. In addition, the electronic properties were altered on the benzopyran ring system to elucidate the substrate scope for this transformation.} } @unpublished{pittir11689, month = {June}, title = {Contested Collectivities: Europe Reimagined by Contemporary Artists}, author = {Brianne Cohen}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Collectivity, Collectivism, Xenophobia, Postcolonial, New Europe, Information, Public Sphere, Counterpublic, Populism, Tatlin, Mass Media, Deep Play, Bataille Monument, Swiss Swiss Democracy, Bijlmer Spinoza Festival}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11689/}, abstract = {This dissertation studies a particular current of contemporary art, which is devoted to exploring positive models for an intercultural imaginary in Europe. In recent times, there has been much contestation over a European identity following decolonization, mass immigration, globalization, and the breaking down of political boundaries on the continent. Numerous artists are scrutinizing a symbolic-visual realm increasingly shaped by stereotypes, misinformation, and distortions concerning ?foreigners? and immigrants. This dissertation examines the work of three artists and art groups ? the filmmaker and video installation artist Harun Farocki, the public installation artist Thomas Hirschhorn, and the transnational art collective, ?Henry VIII?s Wives.? Each explores various forms, such as film, television, the Internet, radio, and so on, in order to probe how the media shapes public opinion and group identification. Through these three cases, the dissertation charts a changing narrative of ?Europeanness? from hopes for a federation after the racial genocide of World War II through critiques of nationalism after decolonization, the ?failure? of multiculturalism since the 1990s, and intensified Roma discrimination, Islamophobia, and right-wing extremism in the twenty-first century. At stake is a broader question of how strangers may relate to one another in an increasingly proximate world. Within the field of contemporary art history, scholars have focused recently on issues of collective spectatorship and participation, or how multiple viewers around an artwork may connect with one another and not just an object. Since the 1990?s, there has emerged a robust line of inquiry directed at socially-oriented art practices, variously studied as ?community? art, ?relational? art, ?dialogical? art, and so on. While this scholarship has opened up a rich discourse about different aspects of socially-engaged practices, there has not been a study of artists who focus on the specific dilemmas of constructing a present-day ?European community.? The European Union itself, for example, which touts a slogan of being ?United in Diversity,? is an exemplary model to rethink questions of cross-cultural exchange and hopes for inter-relating a mass body of strangers. This dissertation investigates contemporary artists in Europe who are staking aesthetic questions of collective engagement in vivid socio? and geopolitical terms. } } @inproceedings{pittir16928, booktitle = {15th Biennial Conference of the International Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (ISAAC)}, title = {Introduction to Telepractice}, author = {Ellen Cohn}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16928/} } @unpublished{pittir16940, booktitle = {Council of Academic Programs in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CAPSCD)}, month = {April}, title = {Telepractice: A Concluding Post-Script}, author = {Ellen Cohn}, year = {2012}, note = {In panel: Telepractice: Issues in Training and Implementation: Part 2}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16940/} } @unpublished{pittir16936, booktitle = {Council of Academic Programs in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CAPSCD) Annual Meeting}, title = {Telerehabilitation: A Wide Angle View}, author = {Ellen Cohn}, year = {2012}, note = {In panel: Telepractice: Issues in Training and Implementation: Part 1}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16936/} } @unpublished{pittir16933, booktitle = {American Telemedicine Association International Meeting \& Exposition}, month = {April}, title = {Resolving State Licensure Barriers for Telepractice}, author = {Ellen Cohn and J Brannon and S DeMers and M Lane and P Grace}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16933/} } @unpublished{pittir16931, booktitle = {American Telemedicine Association International Meeting \& Exposition}, month = {April}, title = {Resolving barriers to interstate practice for telerehabilitation professionals}, author = {Ellen Cohn and Janice A Brannon and J Cason and K Golding-Kushner and A Lee and M Campbell and G Givens and MP Towey}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16931/} } @unpublished{pittir16932, booktitle = {Rehabilitation Engineering Society of North America (RESNA) 2012 Annual Conference}, month = {June}, title = {Telerehabilitation in 2012: Policy and Infrastructure to Ubiquitous Deployment across the United States}, author = {Ellen Cohn and D Brienza}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Telerehabilitation, telehealth, state, licensure}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16932/} } @unpublished{pittir16934, booktitle = {American Telemedicine Association International Meeting \& Exposition}, title = {A Model Collaboration: University Library System and Rehabilitation Research Team Advance Telepractice Knowledge}, author = {Ellen Cohn and Timothy S Deliyannides and Vanessa Gabler}, year = {2012}, note = {e-Poster}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16934/} } @unpublished{pittir16926, booktitle = {American Speech-Language-Hearing Association National Meeting}, month = {November}, title = {Telepractice: Today and Tomorrow}, author = {Ellen Cohn and Lyn Tindall and Michael Campbell and Karen Golding-Kushner and Diana Christiana}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16926/} } @unpublished{pittir16939, booktitle = {Council of Academic Programs in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CAPSCD)}, month = {April}, title = {Teleaudiology and Tele-supervision: A Viable Match?}, author = {Ellen Cohn and Barbara Vento}, year = {2012}, note = {In panel: Telepractice: Issues in Training and Implementation: Part 2}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16939/} } @unpublished{pittir16927, booktitle = {American Speech-Language Hearing Association National Meeting}, month = {November}, title = {Telepractice and Informed Consent: Readability of VoIP Privacy Policies}, author = {Ellen Cohn and Valerie Watzlaf}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16927/} } @article{pittir17307, volume = {2}, number = {1}, month = {September}, author = {Ellen R Cohn}, title = {Coordinator's Column}, publisher = {American Speech Language Hearing Association}, year = {2012}, journal = {Perspectives on Telepractice}, pages = {2 -- 2}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17307/} } @article{pittir14392, volume = {2}, number = {1}, month = {September}, author = {Ellen R Cohn}, title = {Tele-Ethics in Telepractice for Communication Disorders}, publisher = {American Speech Language Hearing Association}, year = {2012}, journal = {Perspectives on Telepractice}, pages = {3 -- 15}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14392/} } @article{pittir17167, volume = {4}, number = {1}, title = {Editors' note: volume overview.}, author = {Ellen R Cohn and Jana Cason}, year = {2012}, pages = {1 -- 2}, journal = {Int J Telerehabil}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17167/} } @unpublished{pittir10738, month = {January}, title = {STUDY OF TRPML CHANNELS REVEALS INSIGHT INTO ENDOCYTIC MALFUNCTION, ORGANELLE CROSSTALK, AND THE ACTIVATION OF PRO-APOPTOTIC PATHWAYS}, author = {Grace Colletti}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Mucolipin-1, TRPML1, Mucolipidosis Type IV, Cathepsin B mediated apoptosis, Endocytic malfunction, Transition metal toxicity, TRPML3}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10738/}, abstract = {Mucolipidosis type IV (MLIV) is a lysosomal storage disease resulting from mutations in the gene MCOLN1, which codes for a transient receptor potential family ion channel TRPML1 (Mucolipin-1). MLIV has an early onset and is characterized by developmental delays, motor and cognitive deficiencies, gastric abnormalities, retinal degeneration and corneal cloudiness. The degenerative aspects of MLIV have been attributed to cell death, whose mechanisms remain to be delineated in MLIV and most other lysosomal storage diseases. The function of TRPML1 is still not completely understood in the cell. In order to address the function of this channel as well as the consequences of its loss, we have studied TRPML1 and a closely related channel TRPML3 using proteomic, transcriptional, and ion channel activity assays. Structure/function analyses of TRPML (Mucolipin) channels revealed that the closely related TRPML3 channel conducts K+, Na2+, Ca2+, and Fe2+, but does not conduct transition metals such as Cu2+ and Co2+. The permeability of the channel can be disrupted by mutations to the pore domain and a constitutively active channel mutation abolishes transition metal block of both TRPML1 and TRPML3. The similarities in TRPML sequence and the activity of the constitutively active mutants suggests that these channels may share similar activity profiles, which supports previous reports that TRPML1 may function to regulate lysosomal Ca2+ and Fe2+ in order to promote proper lysosomal fission/fusion events and function. Our proteomic and transcriptional analyses reveal that acute downregulation of TRPML1 results in apoptosis in a cathepsin B and Bax dependent manner. This is the first evidence that acute TRPML1 loss is linked to apoptosis and my work provides a preliminary mechanism for this process. Furthermore, TRPML1 loss results in increased NF{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B levels as well as altered transcription of genes outside the previously identified lysosomal gene expression network. This suggests that loss of TRPML1 results in cellular changes that affect downstream transcriptional targets and induces cellular responses, such as apoptosis. Taken together, these data shed light on the importance of TRPML1 function and may help us understand the cellular role of this channel and how its loss results in cell death.} } @unpublished{pittir10776, month = {January}, title = {THE CHANGING STRUCTURE OF RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN FOREIGN AID AND LOCAL SYSTEMS}, author = {Kathryn Collins}, year = {2012}, keywords = {adaptation public policy international development social network dynamic network analysis Thailand The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Malaria and TB complex adaptive systems complex systems self-organizing foreign aid effectiveness foreign aid}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10776/}, abstract = {This dissertation project examines the extent to which the interaction between the international aid and the public health systems in Thailand generates change in both systems by examining the Global Fund process over the last ten years. This research uses complexity science, network theory, and organizational collaboration literatures, taking Elinor Ostrom?s institutional analysis and development framework as its theoretical foundation. The Global Fund is an action arena that bridges both the local public health action arena and the Thai foreign aid action arena. It creates structures that result in organizational interactions, program design and implementation, and program evaluations that feed back into both the local public health and foreign aid action arenas, resulting in change in both. This project uses document analysis, network analysis and interviews conducted during fieldwork in Thailand to examine how interactions between organizations change the structure of relationships, organizational roles and influence and program outcomes. It finds that the Global Fund process results in network structural and substantive changes, including changes in density, development of sub-network structures and changes in participants and program focus. Through these changes, the process engenders positive adaptation within the public health sector in Thailand, by improving human, organizational and community capacity and by reaching previously underserved populations, and positive adaptation in the foreign aid system in Thailand through the changing the roles of these organizations, adapting from agenda setters to providers of technical assistance. This study makes important contributions to the fields of complexity and systems, organizational collaboration and network theory. It finds that the bridging action arena creates and enhances relationships between organizational members, resulting in adaptation within the arenas it overlaps. The results are changes in the attributes of the community and the rules in which they operate within both systems. It also changes the material conditions of both the systems it overlaps. This study is an exploratory endeavor that seeks to expand the understanding of overlapping systems and contribute to theories surrounding this phenomenon. In the process of this research, theoretical questions emerged about the nature of these overlapping systems, about the participants within them, and about how they develop over time that will inform future research agendas.} } @article{pittir29946, volume = {13}, month = {March}, title = {Rab11-FIP3 is a cell cycle-regulated phosphoprotein}, author = {LL Collins and G Simon and J Matheson and C Wu and MC Miller and T Otani and X Yu and S Hayashi and R Prekeris and GW Gould}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Cell Biology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29946/}, abstract = {Background: Rab11 and its effector molecule, Rab11-FIP3 (FIP3), associate with recycling endosomes and traffic into the furrow and midbody of cells during cytokinesis. FIP3 also controls recycling endosome distribution during interphase. Here, we examine whether phosphorylation of FIP3 is involved in these activities.Results: We identify four sites of phosphorylation of FIP3 in vivo, S-102, S-280, S-347 and S-450 and identify S-102 as a target for Cdk1-cyclin B in vitro. Of these, we show that S-102 is phosphorylated in metaphase and is dephosphorylated as cells enter telophase. Over-expression of FIP3-S102D increased the frequency of binucleate cells consistent with a role for this phospho-acceptor site in cytokinesis. Mutation of S-280, S-347 or S-450 or other previously identified phospho-acceptor sites (S-488, S-538, S-647 and S-648) was without effect on binucleate cell formation and did not modulate the distribution of FIP3 during the cell cycle. In an attempt to identify a functional role for FIP3 phosphorylation, we report that the change in FIP3 distribution from cytosolic to membrane-associated observed during progression from anaphase to telophase is accompanied by a concomitant dephosphorylation of FIP3. However, the phospho-acceptor sites identified here did not control this change in distribution.Conclusions: Our data thus identify FIP3 as a cell cycle regulated phosphoprotein and suggest dephosphorylation of FIP3 accompanies its translocation from the cytosol to membranes during telophase. S102 is dephosphorylated during telophase; mutation of S102 exerts a modest effect on cytokinesis. Finally, we show that de/phosphorylation of the phospho-acceptor sites identified here (S-102, S-280, S-347 and S-450) is not required for the spatial control of recycling endosome distribution or function. {\copyright} 2012 Collins et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir17348, volume = {1}, number = {1}, month = {March}, author = {LB Collister}, title = {The discourse deictics {\^{ }} and \<-- in a World of Warcraft community}, journal = {Discourse, Context and Media}, pages = {9 -- 19}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17348/}, abstract = {In the written English variety used in a community of World of Warcraft players, two iconic lexical items created from symbols have undergone semantic change. The words analyzed are {\^{ }} and {\ensuremath{<}}--, which have shifted from iconic deictic items used for discourse reference to non-iconic epistemic meanings. {\^{ }} shifted from a discourse deictic to an affirmative of a previous utterance, and {\ensuremath{<}}-- shifted to a self-identifying meaning similar to a pronoun. The existence and evolution of these lexical items are related to the medium in which they were created, as their meanings are associated with a visual-spatial environment created by textual chat in the virtual world. The different meanings of {\^{ }} and {\ensuremath{<}}-- currently exist in polysemy in the community, and the continuum of meanings are documented using data from natural language use spanning three years. A statistical analysis is performed on the data, and a diachronic change in meaning is found; furthermore, the observed change follows the path of semantic shift processes previously documented in spoken language. {\copyright} 2012 Elsevier Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir19938, booktitle = {Meaningful Play}, month = {October}, title = {Social Systems in Virtual Worlds: Building a better looking raid loot system in World of Warcraft using the IAD framework.}, author = {Lauren Brittany Collister and Travis L Ross}, year = {2012}, keywords = {game, theory, institutional, analysis, and, design, digital, games, world, of, warcraft, game, design}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19938/}, abstract = {Online multiplayer games and virtual worlds are difficult to design; they contain economies and other complex systems where the decisions of one player can have far-reaching implications for other players. When considering the welfare of players, game designers have a difficult job; they must create systems, which optimize outcomes for a body of players who often have different motivations for playing the game (Bartle, 1996; Cummings \& Ross, 2011; Yee, 2006). In addition, knowledge of how to create and tune game systems - when it does exist - is often institutionalized. There is no shared theory of how to build and maintain a virtual society. The recent development of telemetry systems has helped to mitigate this issue by providing developers with real-time feedback regarding the state of a population, but telemetry systems are not theoretical. Machine learning does not provide developers with insights into why outcomes occur, or how to develop social systems that are optimal for engagement, enjoyment, or the formation of meaningful relationships. This paper proposes a tool that can provide game developers and researchers with such insights. The Institutional Analysis and Design (IAD) Framework was developed specifically for identifying the universal elements of institutions and draws from decades of research regarding human behavior in various institutional settings (Ostrom, 2005). The IAD framework is not a prescriptive solution detailing how to solve all institutional problems; rather, it is a tool for evaluating the arrangement of different institutional elements. Coupled with various theories of human behavior (game theory, economic theory, social psychological theory) the IAD can provide predictions about player behavior and macro-social outcomes. When used correctly, it can provide developers with theory, which explains why social systems can equilibrate into undesirable outcomes - anti-social behavior or a suboptimal distribution of resources - and identifies institutional designs that can solve social problems. In this paper we examine how the IAD framework can be applied to an existing arrangement, specifically targeting the Looking-for-Raid (LFR) loot system of World of Warcraft. The LFR system, released in November 2011, is a game mechanic that matches players into 25-person groups and delivers them into a raid. Once there, the group navigates through a dungeon filled with enemies, occasionally encountering a powerful enemy that requires coordinated teamwork to defeat. Along the way the group finds a few valuable items, which are distributed by allowing eligible players to enter a lottery. In most cases, the 25 players in the group are strangers. They generally have no knowledge of their fellow group members' playing abilities, and no knowledge about their needs or strategies when it comes to obtaining loot. All of the loot items are tagged for specific classes and roles, allowing only players who fit the prerequisites to enter the lottery; however, players who fit the prerequisites can enter the lottery whether they actually need the item or not. This system relies on a player to honestly report their need of an item; in practice, most players report rampant greed (e.g. players "needing" items that they already possess) and dissatisfaction with the system. Interestingly, most players report honest intentions and a desire for honest behavior. Unfortunately, most players also have expectations that others will be greedy, and most players report changing their own behavior - acting in a more greedy ways - because of expectations of greed. One example of this change in behavior can be seen in loot sharing: players bring friends along on the raid, collaborate to "need" on items, and share them with each other to improve the odds of winning a piece of loot. Even though these players are working within the rules of the system to increase their odds of winning, they are also contributing to the very practice that they find undesirable. In this paper, we use two interviews with focus groups and surveys distributed to 317 active World of Warcraft players to analyze players' expectations regarding loot in the LFR system as well as their reported behavior in loot situations. We demonstrate that the reported behavior and expectations follow the predictions of the IAD model (with game theory) under the assumptions of players as boundedly rational agents playing an N-player mixed-motive game. We explore the theoretical potential of the IAD for game developers who are attempting to predict the outcomes of social systems within games, and we also propose a few potential solutions involving information/communication channels, social norms with sanctions, and auctions that could shift the equilibrium of the current system to a more optimal outcome.} } @unpublished{pittir12332, month = {August}, title = {The Role of Family History of Depression in the Development of Major Depression in Women During Midlife}, author = {Alicia Colvin}, year = {2012}, keywords = {family history of depression, major depression, menopause, midlife women }, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12332/}, abstract = {Depression is associated with increased morbidity and mortality and is highly prevalent, particularly in women. Studies indicate increased risk for onset of new and recurrent episodes of major depression in women during midlife. To improve understanding of the etiology of depression in midlife women and to inform prevention and treatment efforts, the risk and protective factors that influence the occurrence and course of depression in midlife women should be determined. In particular, the role of family history of depression in the development of depression among midlife women is unknown. This dissertation explores associations between family history and major depression in midlife women in the context of other risk and protective factors. First, the relationship between family history and major depression was examined in 303 midlife women. Results showed that family history of depression is a significant predictor of midlife major depression, particularly in women with a history of depression prior to midlife. Second, data from the same cohort of midlife women showed that family history of depression is associated with midlife major depression, after controlling for the menopausal transition and relevant time-varying covariates. Furthermore, menopausal status is associated with major depression among midlife women without a family history of depression, but not among those with a family history. Third, potential mediators of the relationship between family history and the onset of major depression during midlife were explored in 103 midlife women with a lifetime history of depression. Mediation analyses provided evidence that childhood abuse, trait anxiety, and life events mediate the effect of family history on the onset of depression during midlife. In conclusion, family history of depression continues to play an important role in the development of depression in women during midlife, particularly for women with a prior history of depression. The public health relevance of our findings is that clinicians may be able to improve the emotional health of midlife women by assessing family and lifetime history of depression to identify those at risk and by closely monitoring mood among women found to have such histories, thus allowing for implementation of appropriate interventions in a timely manner. } } @incollection{pittir12387, booktitle = {Social Computing, Behavioral - Cultural Modeling and Prediction}, title = {Mnemonic Convergence: From Empirical Data to Large-Scale Dynamics}, author = {Alin Coman and Andreas Kolling and Michael Lewis and William Hirst}, publisher = {Springer Berlin Heidelberg}, year = {2012}, pages = {256 -- 265}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12387/} } @unpublished{pittir12474, month = {September}, title = {Day-to-day Variability of Stuttering}, author = {Christopher D. Constantino and J. Scott Yaruss and Paula Leslie and Robert W. Quesal}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Stuttering, Variability, day-to-day, adult, stutter, stammer, change, longitudinal, task, situation, day, stammering, variable, disfluency, SSI, SSI-4, OASES, Stuttering Severity Instrument, Overall Assessment of the Speaker's Experience of Stuttering, Daily, Questionnaire, week, weekly, disfluencies, stutters, stammers, attitude, reading, spontaneous speaking, task-to-task}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12474/}, abstract = {Variability has long been known to be a primary feature of the disorder of stuttering (Bloodstein \& Bernstein Ratner, 2008; Costello \& Ingham, 1984; Yaruss, 1997a, 1997b). Many factors that affect variability have been investigated (Brown, 1937; Johnson \& Brown, 1935; Quarrington, Conway, \& Siegel, 1962) yet the typical range of variability experienced by speakers remains unknown. This study will examine the speech of six adult speakers in three spontaneous speaking situations and two reading tasks. The frequency, duration, and types of stuttered events that occur on the tasks will be compared within and between speakers. The focus will be on describing variability in stuttering frequency and duration within speakers and attempting to detect consistent patterns between speakers.} } @article{pittir16727, volume = {4}, month = {July}, title = {Potential benefits and risks of clinical xenotransplantation}, author = {DKC Cooper and D Ayares}, year = {2012}, pages = {7 -- 17}, journal = {Transplant Research and Risk Management}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16727/}, abstract = {The transplantation of organs and cells from pigs into humans could overcome the critical and continuing problem of the lack of availability of deceased human organs and cells for clinical transplantation. Developments in the genetic engineering of pigs have enabled considerable progress to be made in the experimental laboratory in overcoming the immune barriers to successful xenotransplantation. With regard to pig organ xenotransplantation, antibody- and cell-mediated rejection have largely been overcome, and the current major barrier is the development of coagulation dysregulation. This is believed to be due to a combination of immune activation of the vascular endothelial cells of the graft and molecular incompatibilities between the pig and primate coagulation-anticoagulation systems. Pigs with new genetic modifications specifically directed to this problem are now becoming available. With regard to less complex tissues, such as islets (for the treatment of diabetes), neuronal cells (for the treatment of Parkinson's disease), and corneas, the remaining barriers are less problematic, and graft survival in nonhuman primate models extends for {\ensuremath{>}} 1 year in all three cases. In planning the initial clinical trials, consideration will be concentrated on the risk-benefit ratio, based to a large extent on the results of preclinical studies in nonhuman primates. If the benefit to the patient is anticipated to be high, eg, insulin-independent control of glycemia, and the potential risks low, eg, minimal risk of transfer of a porcine infectious agent, then a clinical trial would be justified. {\copyright} 2012 Cooper and Ayares, publisher and licensee Dove Medical Press Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir11505, month = {June}, title = {Elevated Circulating Aldosterone and Platelet Activity in Overweight/Obese Young Adults: Roles in Vascular Remodeling and Cardiometabolic Health}, author = {Jennifer Cooper}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Obesity; Platelet activity; Aldosterone; Cardiometabolic health; Carotid intima-media thickness; Arterial stiffness}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11505/}, abstract = {Globally, cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Overweight/obese individuals are at increased risk for CVD because the increased metabolic requirements and inflammation caused by excess weight drive adverse cardiovascular changes. Elevated circulating aldosterone and platelet activity are hypothesized to be important factors linking obesity to declining cardiometabolic health, but little longitudinal data is available in young adults with no clinically apparent obesity-related comorbidities. We sought to evaluate the roles of elevated serum aldosterone and plasma {\ensuremath{\beta}}-thromboglobulin, a marker of platelet activity, in vascular remodeling and cardiometabolic risk in overweight/obese young adults. These questions were investigated in a sample from the Slow Adverse Vascular Effects of excess weight trial, a randomized trial that evaluated the effects of a one year lifestyle intervention targeting weight loss, increased physical activity, and dietary sodium reduction on vascular health. We found that lower circulating platelet activity at the end of the two year study was associated with smaller common carotid artery IMT and greater weight loss during the study. In addition, non-Hispanic white individuals carrying the T allele of rs168753 in the gene encoding PAR-1, the main thrombin receptor, had greater carotid bulb IMT than non-carriers at baseline but not at the end of the study. In another analysis, higher arterial stiffness over the course the study was found to predict higher circulating platelet activity at the end of the study. However, this association was partly explained by the effect of obesity. Finally, in our study of serum aldosterone and obesity-related factors, we found that reductions in aldosterone were associated with reductions in insulin resistance, C-reactive protein, leptin, heart rate, tonic cardiac sympathovagal balance, and increases in adiponectin, independent of changes in dietary sodium and weight. In addition, weight loss and reduced intermuscular fat were associated with reduced aldosterone in individuals who had metabolic syndrome at baseline. The public health relevance of these findings is that elevated aldosterone and platelet activity are important modifiable cardiometabolic risk factors in overweight/obese otherwise healthy young adults. These factors may be useful targets for therapies to reduce the burden of CVD is this population.} } @unpublished{pittir10885, month = {July}, title = {Mechanisms Driving the Effect of Weight Loss on Arterial Stiffness}, author = {Jennifer N Cooper and Kim Sutton Tyrrell and Ada Youk and Jeanine M Buchanich and Maria Mori Brooks}, year = {2012}, keywords = {arterial stiffness, obesity, lifestyle intervention}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10885/}, abstract = {Aims Arterial stiffness decreases with weight loss in overweight and obese adults, but the mechanisms by which this occurs are poorly understood. We aimed to elucidate these mechanisms. Methods We evaluated carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV), a measure of aortic stiffness, and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV), a mixed measure of central and peripheral arterial stiffness, in 344 young adults (mean age 38 yrs, mean body mass index (BMI) 32.9 kg/m2, 23\% male) at baseline, 6 and 12 months in a behavioral weight loss intervention. Linear mixed effects models were used to evaluate associations between weight loss and arterial stiffness and to examine the degree to which improvements in obesity-related factors explained these associations. Pattern-mixture models using indicator variables for dropout pattern and Markov Chain Monte Carlo multiple imputation were used to evaluate the influence of different missing data assumptions. Results At 6 months (7\% mean weight loss from baseline), there was a statistically significant median decrease of 47.5 cm/s (interquartile range (IQR) -44.5, 148) in cfPWV (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.0001) and a mean decrease of 11.7 cm/s (standard deviation (SD) 91.4) in baPWV (p=0.049). At 12 months (6\% mean weight loss from baseline) only cfPWV remained statistically significantly reduced from baseline (p=0.02). Change in BMI (p=0.01) was statistically significantly positively associated with change in cfPWV after adjustment for changes in mean arterial pressure (MAP) or any other measured obesity-related factor. Common carotid artery diameter (p=0.003) was associated and heart rate (p=0.08) and MAP (p=0.07) marginally associated longitudinally with cfPWV. Reductions in heart rate (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.0001) and C-reactive protein (p=0.02) were associated with reduced baPWV, and each removed the statistical significance of the effect of weight loss on baPWV. Pattern-mixture modeling revealed several differences between completers and non-completers in the models for cfPWV, but marginal parameter estimates changed little from the original models for either PWV measure. Conclusions The public health importance of this thesis is that firstly, weight loss improves arterial stiffness in overweight and obese young adults. Secondly, its effect on baPWV may be explained by concurrent reductions in heart rate and inflammation. Missing data did not appear to bias these results.} } @unpublished{pittir11914, month = {May}, title = {?WE?RE HAVING THIS BABY TONIGHT!? INFORMED CONSENT AND MEDICAL DECISIONMAKING REGARDING OXYTOCIN AUGMENTATION}, author = {Mary Glenn Cooper}, year = {2012}, keywords = {oxytocin augmentation, childbirth, ethics, informed consent, labor}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11914/}, abstract = {The medical indications for oxytocin augmentation in childbirth are inconsistent, the benefits of the intervention are often ambiguous and value-dependent, and there are significant risks, which are still being evaluated and elucidated. Providers tend to make the decision to augment labor without inquiring into patient preference. Rather providers declare their intent to augment with little or no discussion with patients, not even regarding risks, benefits and alternatives. In this thesis I argue that augmenting with oxytocin, in the absence of informed consent, violates norms of ethical clinical practice: seeking consent in cases of significant risk or ambiguous indications, avoidance of the generalization of medical expertise and bias in medical decisionmaking, and incorporation of patient preferences in shared decisionmaking. The introduction examines the goals and requirements of informed consent in general and as they relate to oxytocin augmentation. Chapter 1 argues that determination of medical need for oxytocin augmentation is complex and controversial. Chapter 2 explores a distinct hierarchy of stakeholders involved in the decision to augment, many of whom have self-interests that should be elucidated with patients when oxytocin is used. Chapter 3 argues, with particular attention to recent feminist work, that informed consent for oxytocin augmentation should be a meaningful process that promotes patient autonomy and well-being, not just an expansion of a range of choices. Using this construction of informed consent as process, it may, at least, be possible to address all three of the violated norms of ethical clinical practice, even those concerned with bias, power structure, and preference. In addition to extensive research of the literature, the material presented here draws from the author?s observations during shadowing, experiences on the labor and delivery ward as a medical student, and from discussions with clinicians, nurses, and other medical students. } } @unpublished{pittir12105, month = {June}, title = {SCHOOL OF SERVICE: EFFECTS OF SCHOOL-ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT TYPOLOGY ON LOCAL CIVIC AND POLITICAL ENGAGEMENT }, author = {Matthew Cooper}, year = {2012}, keywords = {voting urbanism education "sprawl repair" brownfield ownership rental "social capital" walkability}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12105/}, abstract = {The school-oriented development hypothesis developed by Carolyn Reid and Emily Talen has thus far been tested only in suburban neighbourhoods. This study attempts to ascertain the impact of various design elements of the school-oriented development hypothesis on political and civic participation in the Homewood community in Pittsburgh, using a mixed methodology. Only one of the public schools in the study demonstrated a significant impact on political and civic participation in the surrounding blocks, and though this school also best followed the physical criteria of the school-oriented development typology, none of the other data warranted a conclusion favourable to the school-oriented development hypothesis. At the same time, however, greater attention must be paid to factors such as homeownership, whose effects were much greater and more significant than the presence of schools, and to the academic programmes in each school, which have the most direct impact on students and on the community as a whole. Greater communication between academic, design and community institutions is highly recommended.} } @unpublished{pittir12310, month = {September}, title = {The Analytic Network Process Applied in Supply Chain Decisions, in Ethics, and in World Peace}, author = {Orrin Cooper}, year = {2012}, keywords = {AHP ANP Analytic Network Process Supply Chain Ethics Peace}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12310/}, abstract = {The Analytic Hierarchy/Network Process which was developed by Dr. Thomas Saaty ?has revolutionized how we resolve complex decision problems? (INFORMS, 2008). The Analytic Network Process (ANP) is applied herein in the context of supply chain decision making; then as a tool to bridge the separation thesis between business and ethics and show that ethical decision and business decisions are interrelated and can and should be jointly considered; and finally to guide the G-2 powers in their efforts to improve relations. In the first supply chain model a Metrics Arrow of relevant performance metrics that follow the temporal flow of the product is presented and used to select a third party logistics provider. The ANP model also provides managerial insight into the interdependencies of the performance metrics. The second model deals with selecting which green supply chain initiative a company should implement. A generalized framework is developed and then customized and applied in a specific case study of a TV audio video producer?s supply chain. Two ethics cases are analyzed in the first chapter on ethics to demonstrate the benefits of using a rigorous prioritization process, the ANP, to make ethical decisions. This chapter is intended to act as introduction of the ANP to the ethics community and focuses on the benefits of using the ANP. Next, a complex model that uses a stakeholder theory approach is used to address the ethical issues of hydraulic fracturing. The benefits to the natural gas industry to participate in an integrative stakeholder approach are demonstrated. As another demonstration of the ANP a complex decision with a direct influence on peace and stability in the world is the relationship between the two superpowers the People?s Republic of China and the United States is analyzed. As improvements have been made in the relationship between the two countries there are critical decisions that must be faced in the near future. This model suggests which of five initiatives if addressed will be most beneficial to both countries. In the final chapter the main findings are summarized and future research is suggested. } } @article{pittir17124, volume = {100}, number = {8}, month = {January}, author = {RA Cooper and GG Grindle and JJ Vazquez and J Xu and H Wang and J Candiotti and C Chung and B Salatin and E Houston and A Kelleher and E Teodorski and S Beach}, title = {Personal mobility and manipulation appliancedesign, development, and initial testing}, journal = {Proceedings of the IEEE}, pages = {2505 -- 2511}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17124/}, abstract = {The ability to perform activities of daily living and mobility-related activities of daily living are substantial indicators of one's ability to live at home and to participate in one's community. Technologies to assist with mobility and manipulation are among the most important tools that clinicians can provide to people with disabilities to promote independence and community participation. For people with severe disabilities involving both the upper and lower extremities, there are few systems that provide practical and coordinated assistance with mobility and manipulation tasks. The personal mobility and manipulation appliance (PerMMA) was created in response to goals set forth by a team of clinicians and people with disabilities. {\copyright} 2012 IEEE.} } @article{pittir15662, volume = {24}, number = {2}, month = {June}, author = {RA Cooper and AM Molinero and A Souza and DM Collins and A Karmarkar and E Teodorski and M Sporner}, title = {Effects of cross slopes and varying surface characteristics on the mobility of manual wheelchair users}, journal = {Assistive Technology}, pages = {102 -- 109}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15662/}, abstract = {Surface characteristics of a cross slope can impact the ease with which a manual wheelchair (MWC) user propels across a surface. The purpose of this research was two-fold. Phase I of this research surveyed MWC users to identify cross slope scenarios that they reported to be more difficult to traverse compared to other common driving obstacles. Our survey results showed that, overall, cross slopes were harder to propel across than narrow and manual doors, and cross-slopes in inclement weather conditions were equal or more difficult than gravel and rough-surfaces. Cross slopes with severe angles and those with compound angles (slope with cross-slope) were the most difficult to traverse. Phase II focused on identifying the responses (e.g., avoid, explore alternative, experience a sense of insecurity, no effect) people had when viewing pictures of various cross-slopes scenarios (e.g., narrow space, compound angles, extreme weather) that wheelchair users encounter. These results showed that people reported that they would avoid or feel insecure on some cross-sloped surfaces, like the weather, that are not within our control, others, like compound angle and curb-cuts on slopes, that can be addressed in the construction of pathways or sidewalks. Copyright {\copyright} 2012 RESNA.} } @unpublished{pittir11061, month = {June}, title = {Scientific Controversies and Boundary Disputes: The Intelligent Design Movement Network}, author = {Jared Coopersmith}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Intelligent Design Social Network Analysis Scientific/Intellectual Movements Boundary-Work}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11061/}, abstract = {Although anti-evolutionism has existed for well over a century, recent evolutionary critics have used non-theistic arguments to attempt to show that Darwinian evolution could not have produced some examples of biological complexity. Called ?intelligent design? (ID) theory this movement claims to present genuine scientific facts that prove the inability of evolution to produce most biological structures, thus necessitating the infusion of ?intelligently-designed? structure or information into biological life. Despite claims of scientific legitimacy by the ID movement, evolutionary scientists, professional scientific associations, and scientific proponents have widely dismissed ID arguments as non-scientific reasoning dressed up in the terminology of science. Using Gieryn?s theory of boundary-work together with Frickel and Gross? theory of scientific/intellectual movements (SIM), I examined the institutional relationship, if any, between science and the ID movement, using the inter-organizational network of ties between ID organizations and organizations representing other fields. I used several network theoretic measures to examine the extent of ties between the ID, creation science, and science fields. I found very sparse connections between ID and science, indicating strong institutional boundary- work by scientists. While there was some overlap between ID and creation science, I found considerable evidence that these two movements have distinct intellectual cultures. My findings suggest that, regardless of their origins, the intelligent design and creation science movements are two independent organizational communities.} } @article{pittir22179, volume = {8}, number = {12}, month = {December}, title = {Novel Modeling of Combinatorial miRNA Targeting Identifies SNP with Potential Role in Bone Density}, author = {C Coronnello and R Hartmaier and A Arora and L Huleihel and KV Pandit and AS Bais and M Butterworth and N Kaminski and GD Stormo and S Oesterreich and PV Benos}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS Computational Biology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22179/}, abstract = {MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are post-transcriptional regulators that bind to their target mRNAs through base complementarity. Predicting miRNA targets is a challenging task and various studies showed that existing algorithms suffer from high number of false predictions and low to moderate overlap in their predictions. Until recently, very few algorithms considered the dynamic nature of the interactions, including the effect of less specific interactions, the miRNA expression level, and the effect of combinatorial miRNA binding. Addressing these issues can result in a more accurate miRNA:mRNA modeling with many applications, including efficient miRNA-related SNP evaluation. We present a novel thermodynamic model based on the Fermi-Dirac equation that incorporates miRNA expression in the prediction of target occupancy and we show that it improves the performance of two popular single miRNA target finders. Modeling combinatorial miRNA targeting is a natural extension of this model. Two other algorithms show improved prediction efficiency when combinatorial binding models were considered. ComiR (Combinatorial miRNA targeting), a novel algorithm we developed, incorporates the improved predictions of the four target finders into a single probabilistic score using ensemble learning. Combining target scores of multiple miRNAs using ComiR improves predictions over the na{\"i}ve method for target combination. ComiR scoring scheme can be used for identification of SNPs affecting miRNA binding. As proof of principle, ComiR identified rs17737058 as disruptive to the miR-488-5p:NCOA1 interaction, which we confirmed in vitro. We also found rs17737058 to be significantly associated with decreased bone mineral density (BMD) in two independent cohorts indicating that the miR-488-5p/NCOA1 regulatory axis is likely critical in maintaining BMD in women. With increasing availability of comprehensive high-throughput datasets from patients ComiR is expected to become an essential tool for miRNA-related studies. {\copyright} 2012 Coronnello et al.} } @incollection{pittir25127, booktitle = {University Libraries and Digital Learning Environments}, month = {January}, title = {Continuing professional development and workplace learning}, author = {S Corrall}, year = {2012}, pages = {239 -- 258}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/25127/} } @incollection{pittir25128, booktitle = {University Libraries and Digital Learning Environments}, month = {January}, title = {Professional education for a digital world}, author = {S Corrall}, year = {2012}, pages = {49 -- 568}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/25128/} } @incollection{pittir25126, booktitle = {Handbook of Library Training Practice and Development: Volume Three}, month = {January}, title = {Strategic development}, author = {S Corrall}, year = {2012}, pages = {213 -- 266}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/25126/} } @incollection{pittir25158, author = {Sheila Corrall}, booktitle = {Managing research data}, editor = {Graham Pryor}, address = {London}, title = {Roles and responsibilities: Libraries, librarians and data.}, publisher = {Facet Publishing}, pages = {105 -- 133}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Data, interviews, Data, literacy, Data, management, plans, Digital, curation, Professional, education, Research, data, management}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/25158/}, abstract = {Reviews opportunities and challenges for libraries and librarians in the research data arena, with reference to published reports and case studies of emerging practice, supplemented by evidence from university and library websites. Looks at connections between research data management (RDM) and established library roles and responsibilities to explore whether RDM represents an incremental step in professional practice or a paradigm shift in collection development and service delivery requiring fundamental rethinking of roles, responsibilities, and competencies to create ?next-generation librarianship,? drawing on experiences and opinions of practitioners in the field. Also discusses professional education and continuing development needs for library engagement with research data, referring particularly to initiatives in the USA.} } @incollection{pittir25157, author = {Sheila Corrall}, booktitle = {Collection development in the digital age}, editor = {Maggie Fieldhouse and Audrey Marshall}, address = {London}, title = {The concept of collection development in the digital world}, publisher = {Facet Publishing}, pages = {3 -- 25}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Collection, development, Collection, management, Digital, libraries, Electronic, resources, Materials, selection.}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/25157/}, abstract = {Examines definitions of the library as a collection to demonstrate the centrality of collection development to library and information professionals, before moving on to the issue of collection development as a concept, showing how professional discourse on the subject has suffered from confused terminology. Uses a four-phase framework to review the impact of information and communication technology (ICT) on libraries, concentrating on its effects on collections and their development. The final part of the chapter returns to academic and practitioner conceptions of collection development in digital environments, concluding with a set of questions for reflection on the future of collection development.} } @inproceedings{pittir25189, booktitle = {Libraries in the Digital Age (LIDA) Conference, Part I: Changes in the World of Library Services: Evolution and Innovation,}, volume = {12}, month = {June}, title = {Changes in academic libraries: Evolution and innovation in research support services}, author = {Sheila Corrall and Mary Anne Kennan and Waseem Afzal}, address = {Zadar, Croatia}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Academic, libraries, Bibliometrics, e-Research, Professional, education, Research, data, management, Scholarly, communication}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/25189/}, abstract = {Academic libraries support researchers with a range of services, including the development of collections and the provision of reference, information, and instruction services. New services are emerging in response to technological, political, economic and social changes in the operating environment, particularly developments in national research policy and networked data-driven science. Studies of library responses to the opportunities offered by e-research have been conducted in North America, but there has been limited investigation in other countries. The present study aims to complement surveys of emerging practice from the United States by investigating services in Australia, New Zealand, the UK and Ireland. The research questions are: What specialist research support services are being offered in the academic libraries? What new services are libraries planning? Are library staff constrained in providing specialist research support services? Do staff require additional education, training and support in research support roles? and How might library and information science schools respond to the evolving role of research support services in academic libraries? Emerging findings reveal varying levels of engagement with different types of research support services across the four countries. Bibliometric support services seem to be more prevalent than research data management at present, but data management services are more prominent in reported plans for service developments in the future. The results will also inform the design of education and training programs for the current and future library workforce.} } @inproceedings{pittir25171, volume = {12}, author = {Sheila Corrall and Angharad Roberts}, booktitle = {Changes in Changes in the world of electronic resources: Information and digitization}, address = {Zadar, Croatia}, title = {Information resource development and ?collection? in the digital age: Conceptual frameworks and new definitions for the network world.}, publisher = {University of Zadar, Department of Information Sciences}, journal = {Libraries in the Digital Age (LIDA) Proceedings}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Collection, development, Conceptual, frameworks, Information, technologies, Interdisciplinarity, Library, collections, Social, enterprise}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/25171/}, abstract = {This paper describes some of the challenges in defining the terms ?collection? and ?collection development and management? in the digital age. It uses a four-phase framework to explore the impact of information technology on library collections over the last half-century. It also draws on current doctoral research to explore definitions of ?collection? from a wide range of stakeholder perspectives. The paper argues for the continuing importance of libraries? core functions of collection development and collection management, and of the value of the term ?collection?. It also advocates a collaborative network-based approach to developing and managing globally accessible collections in the digital world.} } @article{pittir26182, volume = {17}, number = {2-3}, month = {April}, author = {R Correnti and LC Matsumura and LS Hamilton and E Wang}, title = {Combining Multiple Measures of Students' Opportunities to Develop Analytic, Text-Based Writing Skills}, journal = {Educational Assessment}, pages = {132 -- 161}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/26182/}, abstract = {Guided by evidence that teachers contribute to student achievement outcomes, researchers have been reexamining how to study instruction and the classroom opportunities teachers create for students. We describe our experience measuring students' opportunities to develop analytic, text-based writing skills. Utilizing multiple methods of data collection-writing assignment tasks, daily logs, and an annual survey-we generated a composite that was used in prediction models to examine multivariate outcomes, including scores on a state accountability test and a project-developed response-to-text assessment. Our findings demonstrate that students' opportunities to develop analytic, text-based writing skills predicted classroom performance on the project-developed response-to-text assessment. We discuss the importance of considering the measure(s) of learning when examining teaching-learning associations as well as implications for combining multiple measures for purposes of better construct representation. {\copyright} 2012 Copyright Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.} } @book{pittir17437, title = {La philosophie exp{\'e}rimentale}, author = {Florian Cova and Julien Dutant and Joshua Knobe and Edouard Machery and Eddy Nahmias and Shaun Nichols}, address = {Paris}, publisher = {Vuibert, Impr. EMD}, year = {2012}, series = {Philosophie des sciences}, note = {Philosophie exp{\'e}rimentale}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17437/} } @article{pittir29830, volume = {16}, number = {5}, month = {September}, title = {Bench to bedside review: Extracorporeal carbon dioxide removal, past present and future}, author = {ME Cove and G MacLaren and WJ Federspiel and JA Kellum}, year = {2012}, journal = {Critical Care}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29830/}, abstract = {Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) has a substantial mortality rate and annually affects more than 140,000 people in the USA alone. Standard management includes lung protective ventilation but this impairs carbon dioxide clearance and may lead to right heart dysfunction or increased intracranial pressure. Extracorporeal carbon dioxide removal has the potential to optimize lung protective ventilation by uncoupling oxygenation and carbon dioxide clearance. The aim of this article is to review the carbon dioxide removal strategies that are likely to be widely available in the near future. Relevant published literature was identified using PubMed and Medline searches. Queries were performed by using the search terms ECCOR, AVCO2R, VVCO2R, respiratory dialysis, and by combining carbon dioxide removal and ARDS. The only search limitation imposed was English language. Additional articles were identified from reference lists in the studies that were reviewed. Several novel strategies to achieve carbon dioxide removal were identified, some of which are already commercially available whereas others are in advanced stages of development. {\copyright} 2012 BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir29958, volume = {16}, number = {1}, month = {February}, title = {Carboxyhemoglobin levels in medical intensive care patients}, author = {ME Cove and MR Pinsky}, year = {2012}, journal = {Critical Care}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29958/} } @article{pittir22116, volume = {8}, number = {7}, month = {July}, title = {A genome-wide association meta-analysis of circulating sex hormone-binding globulin reveals multiple loci implicated in sex steroid hormone regulation}, author = {AD Coviello and R Haring and M Wellons and D Vaidya and T Lehtim{\"a}ki and S Keildson and KL Lunetta and C He and M Fornage and V Lagou and M Mangino and NC Onland-Moret and B Chen and J Eriksson and M Garcia and YM Liu and A Koster and K Lohman and LP Lyytik{\"a}inen and AK Petersen and J Prescott and L Stolk and L Vandenput and AR Wood and WV Zhuang and A Ruokonen and AL Hartikainen and A Pouta and S Bandinelli and R Biffar and G Brabant and DG Cox and Y Chen and S Cummings and L Ferrucci and MJ Gunter and SE Hankinson and H Martikainen and A Hofman and G Homuth and T Illig and JO Jansson and AD Johnson and D Karasik and M Karlsson and J Kettunen and DP Kiel and P Kraft and J Liu and O Ljunggren and M Lorentzon and M Maggio and MRP Markus and D Mellstr{\"o}m and I Miljkovic and D Mirel and S Nelson and L Morin Papunen and PHM Peeters and I Prokopenko and L Raffel and M Reincke and AP Reiner and K Rexrode and F Rivadeneira and SM Schwartz and D Siscovick and N Soranzo and D St{\"o}ckl and S Tworoger and AG Uitterlinden and CH van Gils and RS Vasan and HE Wichmann and G Zhai and S Bhasin and M Bidlingmaier and SJ Chanock and I de Vivo and TB Harris and DJ Hunter and M K{\"a}h{\"o}nen and S Liu and P Ouyang and TD Spector and YT van der Schouw and J Viikari and H Wallaschofski and MI McCarthy and TM Frayling and A Murray and S Franks and MR J{\"a}rvelin and FH de Jong and O Raitakari and A Teumer and C Ohlsson and JM Murabito and JRB Perry}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS Genetics}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22116/}, abstract = {Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) is a glycoprotein responsible for the transport and biologic availability of sex steroid hormones, primarily testosterone and estradiol. SHBG has been associated with chronic diseases including type 2 diabetes (T2D) and with hormone-sensitive cancers such as breast and prostate cancer. We performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) meta-analysis of 21,791 individuals from 10 epidemiologic studies and validated these findings in 7,046 individuals in an additional six studies. We identified twelve genomic regions (SNPs) associated with circulating SHBG concentrations. Loci near the identified SNPs included SHBG (rs12150660, 17p13.1, p = 1.8{$\times$}10-106), PRMT6 (rs17496332, 1p13.3, p = 1.4{$\times$}10-11), GCKR (rs780093, 2p23.3, p = 2.2{$\times$}10-16), ZBTB10 (rs440837, 8q21.13, p = 3.4{$\times$}10-09), JMJD1C (rs7910927, 10q21.3, p = 6.1{$\times$}10-35), SLCO1B1 (rs4149056, 12p12.1, p = 1.9{$\times$}10-08), NR2F2 (rs8023580, 15q26.2, p = 8.3{$\times$}10-12), ZNF652 (rs2411984, 17q21.32, p = 3.5{$\times$}10-14), TDGF3 (rs1573036, Xq22.3, p = 4.1{$\times$}10-14), LHCGR (rs10454142, 2p16.3, p = 1.3{$\times$}10-07), BAIAP2L1 (rs3779195, 7q21.3, p = 2.7{$\times$}10-08), and UGT2B15 (rs293428, 4q13.2, p = 5.5{$\times$}10-06). These genes encompass multiple biologic pathways, including hepatic function, lipid metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism and T2D, androgen and estrogen receptor function, epigenetic effects, and the biology of sex steroid hormone-responsive cancers including breast and prostate cancer. We found evidence of sex-differentiated genetic influences on SHBG. In a sex-specific GWAS, the loci 4q13.2-UGT2B15 was significant in men only (men p = 2.5{$\times$}10-08, women p = 0.66, heterogeneity p = 0.003). Additionally, three loci showed strong sex-differentiated effects: 17p13.1-SHBG and Xq22.3-TDGF3 were stronger in men, whereas 8q21.12-ZBTB10 was stronger in women. Conditional analyses identified additional signals at the SHBG gene that together almost double the proportion of variance explained at the locus. Using an independent study of 1,129 individuals, all SNPs identified in the overall or sex-differentiated or conditional analyses explained {\texttt{\char126}}15.6\% and {\texttt{\char126}}8.4\% of the genetic variation of SHBG concentrations in men and women, respectively. The evidence for sex-differentiated effects and allelic heterogeneity highlight the importance of considering these features when estimating complex trait variance.} } @article{pittir29917, volume = {9}, number = {1}, month = {April}, title = {Recent trends in assistive technology for mobility}, author = {RE Cowan and BJ Fregly and ML Boninger and L Chan and MM Rodgers and DJ Reinkensmeyer}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29917/}, abstract = {Loss of physical mobility makes maximal participation in desired activities more difficult and in the worst case fully prevents participation. This paper surveys recent work in assistive technology to improve mobility for persons with a disability, drawing on examples observed during a tour of academic and industrial research sites in Europe. The underlying theme of this recent work is a more seamless integration of the capabilities of the user and the assistive technology. This improved integration spans diverse technologies, including powered wheelchairs, prosthetic limbs, functional electrical stimulation, and wearable exoskeletons. Improved integration is being accomplished in three ways: 1) improving the assistive technology mechanics; 2) improving the user-technology physical interface; and 3) sharing of control between the user and the technology. We provide an overview of these improvements in user-technology integration and discuss whether such improvements have the potential to be transformative for people with mobility impairments. {\copyright} 2012 Cowan et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir10691, month = {January}, title = {Frontopolar signaling of inferred value}, author = {Karin Cox}, year = {2012}, keywords = {reward, value, learning, decision-making, frontal pole, ventromedial prefrontal cortex, functional MRI}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10691/}, abstract = {Adaptive decision-making requires that options be weighed according to the predicted value of the outcomes that they are likely to produce. Cognitive neuroscientific research has frequently emphasized the importance of the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (VMPFC) for encoding value information. As measured via functional MRI, VMPFC activity has been shown to correlate with the subjective values of explicitly-presented options (e.g., monetary gambles, offered foods) and also with the learned values of stimuli or actions that have been arbitrarily paired with rewards or punishments. Additional work has confirmed VMPFC sensitivity to abrupt changes in option values, particularly when these may be inferred on the basis of regular fluctuations in and/or interrelationships between option-outcome contingencies (e.g., as in serial reversal learning). The use of fixed option alternatives in these settings (e.g., constant choice stimuli) raises the question of whether such rapid updating of value activity can only occur when inferences can rely upon concretely-encoded sensory and motor information. To determine whether any brain region tracks values that may only be inferred via abstract rules, we scanned 17 participants as they completed a series of unique, two-trial discrimination problems in which the stimulus chosen on each Trial 1 was replaced with a novel stimulus of the same reward status on the following Trial 2. Under this protocol, optimal responding required inferences regarding the valence of each unsampled Trial 1 stimulus. Additional problem-wise manipulation of the magnitude of the available gains and losses created a situation in which the specific values of the unsampled stimuli could also be inferred. BOLD-signal analyses revealed activity in the right lateral frontopolar cortex (FPC) that varied linearly with the inferable values of the unsampled Trial 1 stimuli; follow-up analyses confirmed that this effect was not attributable to the influence of the recently-delivered Trial 1 outcomes. Therefore, the results indicate that the brain does encode values that may only be inferred via abstract deduction. The frontopolar focus of this inferred-value activity corroborates and expands upon recent accounts of FPC function, which posit a broader role for this region in monitoring the value of re-directing behavior towards postponed response options. } } @article{pittir12172, volume = {43}, number = {3}, month = {January}, author = {RJ Cox}, title = {Lester J. Cappon, scholarly publishing, and the atlas of early American history, 1957-1976}, journal = {Journal of Scholarly Publishing}, pages = {294 -- 321}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12172/}, abstract = {The Atlas of Early American History: The Revolutionary Era 1760-1790, published in 1976, remains one of the lasting legacies of the US Bicentennial. Funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities and a variety of private foundations, the publication was only incidentally a product of the celebration of the birth of a nation. The Atlas was the product of twenty years of effort by Lester J. Cappon-historian, archivist, and documentary editor-and because of his commitment to maintaining his own personal archives, we can learn more about this scholarly publishing venture than most. His rich diaries, personal papers, and Atlas archives enable us to follow the trials and tribulations of this publishing venture. We also learn that the kinds of issues facing scholarly publishing today, with a few differences (such as e-publishing), are not unique at all from those of half a century ago.} } @article{pittir15608, volume = {53}, number = {4}, month = {October}, author = {Richard J Cox}, title = {Assessing iSchools}, publisher = {Association for Library and Information Science}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of Education for Library and Information Science}, pages = {303 -- 316}, keywords = {iSchools, LIS, Education, assessment, accreditation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15608/}, abstract = {Over the past decade, iSchools have emerged to educate the next generation of information professionals and scholars. Claiming to be edgy and innovative, how can and should these schools function in the spirit of assessment that now drives so much in the university? This essay, which explores how well we can assess iSchools, emerged from a doctoral seminar. Academic Culture and Practice, taught by Richard Cox and including four doctoral student participants and the Dean of School of Information Studies at the University of Pittsburgh, Ronald Larsen. The doctoral students, among other activities, were required to work on assignments to support a self-study for the University of Pittsburgh's reaccreditation by the Middle States Association. As we proceeded through the course, we found ourselves increasingly drawn to questions about how iSchools, in their nascent state, can assess themselves. Four major areas{--}reputation, evaluating productivity in scholarly publishing, student evaluation of teaching, and student satisfaction with their academic programs{--}that emerged based on student interest as the seminar proceeded are discussed.} } @article{pittir17133, volume = {17}, number = {11}, month = {November}, author = {Richard J Cox}, title = {Review of Mr. Collier?s letter racks: A tale of art and illusion at the threshold of the modern information age}, publisher = {Munksgaard}, journal = {First Monday}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Letter, racks, Edward, Collier, trompe-l'oeil, information, age}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17133/}, abstract = {Review of a study of the seventeenth century Dutch trompe-l'oeil painter with implications for understanding how documents were viewed and for understanding our modern information era.} } @article{pittir11981, volume = {25}, number = {1}, title = {War, Memory, and Archives: Building a Framework}, author = {Richard J Cox}, year = {2012}, pages = {21 -- 57}, journal = {Library and Archival Security}, keywords = {archives, war, memory}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11981/}, abstract = {Archives, often targeted for destruction in war, are also given meaning in these conflicts. Institutions with an archival function (archives, museums, and libraries) are destroyed, but new repositories are often created in their place. War even provides an impetus for the creation of new documentary forms. This essay explores archives within the framework of memory studies, specifically that part focusing on war. Drawing on the growing rich scholarly literature on war memory, this essay addresses the implications for understanding archives, in the context of documenting, remembering, and forgetting and in how memorials, from cemeteries to uses of new technologies, influence our understanding of archives and the archival function. In efforts to destroy archives as symbols of society and culture, we can begin to gain a new and different sense of the value of archives. This essay begins to lay out a framework for valuing archives that extends outside of the traditional notions of archives.} } @inproceedings{pittir18726, author = {Richard J Cox}, booktitle = {ASIS\&T Annual Meeting: Information, Interaction, Innovation}, address = {Medford, NJ}, title = {Where Is Archival Science in the History of Information Science: A Speculative Framework}, publisher = {Information Today, Inc.}, journal = {International Perspectives on the History of Information Science and Technology: Proceedings of the ASIS\&T 2012 Pre-Conference on the History of ASIS\&T and Information Science and Technology}, pages = {39 -- 48}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Archival, Science, archival, studies, archival, history}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18726/}, abstract = {This paper considers a doctoral seminar, ?Academic Culture and Practice,? taught at Pittsburgh, as a means of raising significant issues relating to how we prepare the next generation of faculty.} } @article{pittir18724, volume = {75}, title = {Archival Document Packets: A Teaching Module in Advocacy Training Using the Papers of Governor Dick Thornburgh}, author = {Richard J Cox and Janet Ceja Alcala and Leanne Bowler}, publisher = {Society of American Archivists}, year = {2012}, journal = {American Archivist}, keywords = {Archival, advocacy, teaching, packets, Dick, Thornburgh, archival, education}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18724/}, abstract = {Archivists have been involved for a long time in working with educators at all levels to use archival sources. Having graduate archival studies students work on documentary teaching packets is also a way for students preparing for archival careers to learn how to become advo- cates for archives. At the University of Pittsburgh{--}in a course called Archival Access, Ethics, and Advocacy{--}students drew on the extensive Governor Dick Thornburgh Papers to con- struct document teaching packets. This article provides background in the use of such pack- ets in archival advocacy and public education, discusses the successes and challenges of such an assignment, and offers insights for graduate archival education. Whether or not the final products were useful is not important, as the students learned about how to be advocates and the nature of large archival collections.} } @article{pittir22271, volume = {4}, number = {1}, title = {Tele-Dysphagia management: an opportunity for prevention, cost-savings and advanced training.}, author = {James Coyle}, year = {2012}, pages = {37 -- 40}, journal = {Int J Telerehabil}, keywords = {Aspiration pneumonia, dysphagia, speech-language pathology, tele-dysphagia, telepractice}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22271/}, abstract = {Many patients survive severe stroke because of aggressive management in intensive care units. However, acquiring pneumonia during the post-onset phase significantly reduces both the quality and likelihood of survival. Aspiration pneumonia (AP), a relatively recent addition to the list of the pneumonias, is associated with dysphagia, a swallowing disorder that may cause aspiration of swallowed food or liquids mixed with bacterial pathogens common to saliva, or by aspiration of gastric contents due to emesis or gastroesophageal reflux. While it is within the purview of speech-language pathologists to provide evaluation, treatment, and management of dysphagia, the number of patients with dysphagia is growing faster than the number of qualified dysphagia clinicians. Because dysphagia consultations via telepractice are feasible and relatively accessible from a technological standpoint, they offer a promising strategy to bring the expertise of distant dysphagia experts to patients in underserved areas. Tele-dysphagia management has the potential to increase patients' survival, enhance the expertise of primary, local clinicians, and reduce healthcare costs. Even a modest reduction in either hospital admissions for aspiration pneumonia, or in the length of stay for AP, could save the US health care system hundreds of millions of dollars each year. Wide spread tele-dysphagia management offers significant opportunities for prevention, cost-savings and advanced training, and is therefore worthy of consideration by stakeholders in the health care system and university training programs.} } @unpublished{pittir12024, month = {April}, title = {The Role of Estrogen (Estradiol and Estrone) on the Development of Delayed Cerebral Ischemia After Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage}, author = {Elizabeth Crago}, year = {2012}, keywords = {subarachnoid hemorrhage, aneurysm, estrogen, estradiol, estrone, delayed cerebral ischemia}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12024/}, abstract = {Delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) is a significant complication following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). Recent evidence has suggested that biochemical mediators alter cerebral perfusion resulting in neurological decline. Estrogens (estrone?E1 and estradiol?E2) are mediators with demonstrated neuroprotective properties that could be implicated in DCI. The impact of E1 or E2 on outcomes in humans following aSAH has been understudied. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between E1 and E2 levels and DCI following aSAH. Plasma and cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) samples collected after hemorrhage on 99 acute, adult aSAH patients admitted to the Neurovascular ICU enrolled in a NIH funded study-RO1NR004339. Three plasma and up to 5 CSF samples were selected for E1 and E2 analysis from each patient representing early(1?4), middle(4-6) and late(7-10) days after hemorrhage and were assayed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. DCI was operationalized as radiographic/ultrasonic evidence of impaired cerebral blood flow accompanied by neurological deterioration. Statistical analysis included detailed descriptive, group based trajectory and multiple logistic regression using SAS v9.2. Group based trajectory identified 2 groups over time for both plasma E1 (61.4\% E1-high and 38.6\% E1-low) and E2 (48\% E2-high and 52\% E2-low) values using censored normal model. Weighted Chi Square analysis identified differences between trajectory groups by gender(p=.02), menopause(.05), age(p{\ensuremath{<}}.001) and fisher grade(p=.008) with patients in the high E1 group having higher severity of injury than those in the low E1 group. Likewise, patients with higher HH (E1 p=.01, E2 p=.02) and Fisher (E1 p=.008, E2 p=.08) were more likely to have higher plasma estrogen levels. The presence of DCI was also significantly associated with higher levels of plasma E1(p=.002) and E2(p=.03) and the high E1 trajectory group(p=.09). CSF was evaluated in 36 aSAH patients. Similar correlations between higher E1 and E2 CSF concentrations and severity of injury and DCI were noted. These results provide the first clinical evidence that E1 and E2 concentrations in plasma and CSF are associated with severity of injury and DCI and provide incentive for future studies to clarify the potential role of estrogen in ischemic complications after aSAH. } } @unpublished{pittir10471, month = {January}, title = {Social Isolation in Middle Childhood: Variability and Vulnerability}, author = {Anna Craig}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Social Isolation, Middle Childhood, Social Withdrawal, Peer Rejection, Friendship}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10471/}, abstract = {To address debate about risk associated with isolated behaviors during middle childhood, the present study utilized an extreme group approach to examine behavioral characteristics and social functioning of a large sample of children in grades 2-5 who scored 1.5 standard deviations above the classroom mean on an extensively studied, psychometrically sound measure of isolated behavior: the Sensitive-Isolated scale of the Revised Class Play (RCP; Masten, Morison, \& Pellegrini, 1985). Children viewed by peers as extremely sensitive-isolated (SI) were first compared to a non-isolated comparison group (COMP) matched one-to-one on classroom, race, and gender, with regard to risk for peer rejection and friendlessness. Risk and/or protective benefits conferred by specific demographic factors (gender, race, grade-level) and behavioral characteristics (academic and athletic competencies) were examined. Regression analyses revealed that SI children were at significantly greater risk for friendlessness and peer rejection relative to COMP peers. There were no main or interactive effects of demographic variables. Main effects of poor academic and athletic abilities were shown for peer rejection and friendlessness; poorer abilities were associated with increased risk for these outcomes. No interactive effects of academic or athletic abilities with group membership were demonstrated. Latent class analyses within the SI group utilizing behavioral data from the RCP revealed the presence of three distinct classes of SI children: SI-Pure (66\%), SI-Aggressive (26\%), and SI-Prosocial (8\%). With regard to relative vulnerability for friendlessness, the SI-Pure class did not demonstrate greater risk for friendlessness relative to the SI-Prosocial class and was less likely than the SI-Aggressive class to be friendless. The SI-Pure class was more likely to be rejected than the SI-Prosocial class. The SI-Prosocial class showed the lowest risk for peer rejection. However, this protective effect was not present for the friendlessness variable. The SI-Aggressive class evidenced significantly relatively greatest risk for friendlessness and peer rejection. Given increased risk for peer rejection and friendlessness associated with SI behaviors in middle childhood, the current study adds more evidence to the literature describing psychosocial difficulties for isolated children, particularly when these behaviors include comorbid aggression, underscoring the need for timely identification and intervention.} } @article{pittir18855, volume = {23}, number = {3}, month = {March}, author = {RD Cranston and R Murphy and RE Weiss and M Da Costa and J Palefsky and S Shoptaw and PM Gorbach}, title = {Anal human papillomavirus infection in a street-based sample of drug using HIV-positive men}, journal = {International Journal of STD and AIDS}, pages = {195 -- 200}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18855/}, abstract = {HIV facilitates an increase in human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated conditions. HIV-positive men living in a substance use context in Los Angeles, USA, were recruited using respondent-driven sampling, completed a questionnaire and had biological samples including an anal HPV swab taken. A total of 316 evaluable men were enrolled in the study. The prevalence of any HPV, highrisk (HR) infection and multiple-type infection was highest for men who have sex with men (MSM) (93.9\%, 64.6\% and 29.7\%, respectively). When any HPV and HR-HPV prevalence in all men was stratified by age, the youngest group had 100\% and 68.2\% prevalence, respectively, with similarly high rates maintained up to age 49 years. The individual's use of alcohol, marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine or heroin was not significantly associated with anal HPV detection. In this marginalized population, high prevalence rates of anal HPV and HR-HPV occurring over a wide age range may increase the individual's risk for anal dysplasia and anal cancer.} } @article{pittir13205, volume = {7}, number = {2}, month = {February}, title = {DRD4 polymorphism moderates the effect of alcohol consumption on social bonding}, author = {KG Creswell and MA Sayette and SB Manuck and RE Ferrell and SY Hill and JD Dimoff}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13205/}, abstract = {Development of interpersonal relationships is a fundamental human motivation, and behaviors facilitating social bonding are prized. Some individuals experience enhanced reward from alcohol in social contexts and may be at heightened risk for developing and maintaining problematic drinking. We employed a 3 (group beverage condition) {$\times$}2 (genotype) design (N = 422) to test the moderating influence of the dopamine D4 receptor gene (DRD4 VNTR) polymorphism on the effects of alcohol on social bonding. A significant gene x environment interaction showed that carriers of at least one copy of the 7-repeat allele reported higher social bonding in the alcohol, relative to placebo or control conditions, whereas alcohol did not affect ratings of 7-absent allele carriers. Carriers of the 7-repeat allele were especially sensitive to alcohol's effects on social bonding. These data converge with other recent gene-environment interaction findings implicating the DRD4 polymorphism in the development of alcohol use disorders, and results suggest a specific pathway by which social factors may increase risk for problematic drinking among 7-repeat carriers. More generally, our findings highlight the potential utility of employing transdisciplinary methods that integrate genetic methodologies, social psychology, and addiction theory to improve theories of alcohol use and abuse. {\copyright} 2012 Creswell et al.} } @unpublished{pittir13403, month = {September}, title = {GENETIC LINKS TO THE REINFORCING EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL IN A SOCIAL CONTEXT}, author = {Kasey Creswell}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Alcohol Response, Genetics, Alcohol Reinforcement}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13403/}, abstract = {Development of interpersonal relationships is a fundamental human motivation, and behaviors facilitating social bonding are prized. Some individuals experience enhanced reward from alcohol in social contexts and may be at heightened risk for developing and maintaining problematic drinking. There has been little systematic research conducted in group settings, though, and no prior studies have tried to link genetic variation to alcohol?s socially reinforcing effects. This research investigated whether the rewarding effects of alcohol in a group setting are associated with genetic variation implicated in the development of alcohol use disorders. Specifically, this study tested the moderating influence of genes encoding the dopamine D2 and D4 receptors, the serotonin transporter, and the alpha receptor for gamma-aminobutryic acid (GABAA) on the effects of alcohol on social bonding. Social drinkers (N=427; males=50.12\%) were assembled into three-person unacquainted groups, and given a moderate dose of alcohol, placebo, or a non-alcohol (control) beverage, which they consumed over 36-min. To assess social bonding, participants completed the Perceived Group Reinforcement Scale immediately after the group drinking period. In addition, their social interaction was video-recorded, and the duration of facial behaviors was systematically coded using the Facial Action Coding System. After applying the Bonferroni correction to control for false positives in multiple genotype comparisons, there was one significant gene x environment interaction. Results showed that carriers of at least one copy of the 7-repeat allele of the DRD4 VNTR reported higher perceived social bonding in the alcohol, relative to placebo or control conditions, whereas alcohol did not affect ratings of 7-absent allele carriers. Findings indicate that carriers of the 7-repeat allele were especially sensitive to alcohol?s effects on social bonding. These data converge with other recent gene-environment interaction findings implicating the DRD4 polymorphism in the development of alcohol use disorders, and results suggest a specific pathway by which social factors may increase risk for problematic drinking among 7-repeat carriers.} } @article{pittir26183, volume = {112}, number = {3}, month = {March}, author = {AC Crosson and LC Matsumura and R Correnti and A Arlotta-Guerrero}, title = {The quality of writing tasks and students' use of academic language in Spanish}, journal = {Elementary School Journal}, pages = {469 -- 496}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/26183/}, abstract = {This study investigates the quality of the writing tasks assigned to native Spanish speakers in bilingual (Spanish-English) contexts, and the relationship between task quality and students' use of an academic register in their native language. Fifty-six language arts tasks were collected from 26 grade 4 and 5 teachers, and four student writing samples were collected in response to each task (N = 224). Multilevel modeling revealed that variation in students' use of key features of academic language in their writing was associated with the cognitive demand of writing tasks. Findings suggest that students' opportunities to respond to challenging tasks when writing in their native language are rare and that the rigor of writing tasks may relate to students' production and development of academic language. {\copyright} 2012 by The University of Chicago. All rights reserved.} } @inproceedings{pittir17517, booktitle = {Second World Congress on Spina Bifida Research and Care}, month = {March}, title = {Exercise Capacity in Adults with Spina Bifida}, author = {Theresa M Crytzer}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17517/} } @article{pittir15563, volume = {7}, number = {5}, month = {May}, author = {Joshua R. Cummings and Magdalena N. Muchlinski and E. Christopher Kirk and Susan J. Rehorek and Valerie B. DeLeon and Timothy D. Smith}, editor = {Gilbert Bernier}, title = {Eye Size at Birth in Prosimian Primates: Life History Correlates and Growth Patterns}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, pages = {e36097 -- e36097}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15563/} } @unpublished{pittir10746, month = {January}, title = {Psychedelic orientalism: representations of India in the music of the Beatles}, author = {Trent Cunningham}, year = {2012}, keywords = {rock, sixties, lsd, hindustani music, indian music, beatles, john lennon, george harrison, norwegian wood, if i needed someone, tomorrow never knows, within you without you, grotesque, appropriation, mimicry, mimesis, raga rock, exoticism}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10746/}, abstract = {In 1960s Britain and America, a mystical Orientalist view of India held sway: India was seen as a land of trippy gurus holding secret, ancient, psychedelic wisdom that could liberate the young hippie from the system of stuffy, bourgeois Western values. There was of course no ethnographic basis to this view ? Indian philosophers, intellectuals, and musicians in the West resented the association with drugs ? but mystical India was a powerful symbol nevertheless. The Beatles? ?Tomorrow Never Knows? was one of the earliest and most potent manifestations of what I will call ?psychedelic orientalism? within rock music. A close look at this song, and others like it from the Beatles? middle period, will reveal some of the functions of this construction, as well as some of the motivations behind it. Studying the Beatles? music in a historical and cultural context will uncover certain dynamics of power, themes of appropriation and cultural hegemony. These songs were written by young musicians who came of age during the last days of the British Empire, and in writing them they were enacting a musical relationship with their former colony. A close analytical look at the unique stylistic divergences of these songs, understood through Timothy Leary?s manual The Psychedelic Experience and Ravi Shankar?s tutelage of George Harrison, as well as through sociological perspectives on the drug-induced experience, will reveal the role that Indian musical elements (and the ancient Oriental wisdom they reportedly represented) were made to play. Finally, the perspectives of postcolonial criticism will show how that role given to India was a subordinate one, built upon an attitude of power that characterized the Empire.} } @article{pittir22255, volume = {4}, number = {12}, month = {December}, author = {DP Curran}, title = {Free at last!}, journal = {Nature Chemistry}, pages = {958 -- ?}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22255/} } @article{pittir17968, volume = {51}, number = {7}, month = {February}, author = {DP Curran and A Boussonni{\`e}re and SJ Geib and E Lac{\^o}te}, title = {The parent borylene: Betwixt and between}, journal = {Angewandte Chemie - International Edition}, pages = {1602 -- 1605}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17968/}, abstract = {Still elusive: The reduction of dimethylimidazol-2-ylidene dichloroborane by sodium naphthalenide has been suggested to provide a borylene that cycloadds to naphthalene to make a borirane. Evidence has been provided that this borirane instead arises from coupling of a boryl radical and sodium naphthalenide. In contrast, reduction of 1,3-bis(2,6-diisopropylphenyl)imidazol-2-ylidene dichloroborane and the related dimesityl derivative provide novel C-H insertion products that may have arisen from a borylene. Copyright {\copyright} 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH \& Co. KGaA, Weinheim.} } @article{pittir18031, volume = {4}, number = {2}, month = {February}, author = {DP Curran and MK Sinha and K Zhang and JJ Sabatini and DH Cho}, title = {Binary fluorous tagging enables the synthesis and separation of a 16-stereoisomer library of macrosphelides}, journal = {Nature Chemistry}, pages = {124 -- 129}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18031/}, abstract = {Fluorous mixture synthesis minimizes the effort to synthesize small-molecule libraries by labelling the molecules rather than the reaction vessels. Reactants are labelled with fluorinated tags and products can later be demixed based on the fluorine content. A limit in the number of available tags can be overcome by using binary encoding so that a total of four tags can label uniquely a library of 16 compounds. This strategy, however, means that separation based on fluorine content alone is not possible. Here, we solve this problem by selectively removing one tag after an initial demixing step; a second demixing provides each individual compound. The usefulness of this strategy is demonstrated by the synthesis of a library that contains all 16 diastereomers of the natural products macrosphelides A and E. Macrosphelide D was not in this library, and so its assigned structure was incorrect. We determined its constitution by using NMR spectroscopy and its configuration by synthesizing four candidate stereoisomers. {\copyright} 2012 Macmillan Publishers Limited. All rights reserved.} } @article{pittir35342, volume = {132}, number = {2}, month = {August}, author = {RM Cvengros and D Valente and ET Nykaza and JS Vipperman}, title = {Blast noise classification with common sound level meter metrics}, journal = {Journal of the Acoustical Society of America}, pages = {822 -- 831}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/35342/}, abstract = {A common set of signal features measurable by a basic sound level meter are analyzed, and the quality of information carried in subsets of these features are examined for their ability to discriminate military blast and non-blast sounds. The analysis is based on over 120 000 human classified signals compiled from seven different datasets. The study implements linear and Gaussian radial basis function (RBF) support vector machines (SVM) to classify blast sounds. Using the orthogonal centroid dimension reduction technique, intuition is developed about the distribution of blast and non-blast feature vectors in high dimensional space. Recursive feature elimination (SVM-RFE) is then used to eliminate features containing redundant information and rank features according to their ability to separate blasts from non-blasts. Finally, the accuracy of the linear and RBF SVM classifiers is listed for each of the experiments in the dataset, and the weights are given for the linear SVM classifier. {\copyright} 2012 Acoustical Society of America.} } @unpublished{pittir12128, month = {June}, title = {THE EMERGENCE OF DOMINANT DESIGN(S) IN LARGE SCALE CYBERINFRASTRUCTURE SYSTEMS}, author = {EIRINI ILANA DIAMANTI}, year = {2012}, keywords = {TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12128/}, abstract = {Cyber-infrastructure systems are integrated large-scale IT systems designed with the goal of transforming scientific practice by enabling multi-disciplinary, cross-institutional collaboration. Their large scale and socio-technical complexity make design decisions for their underlying architecture practically irreversible. Drawing on three alternative theories of IT adoption (path dependence, project management, technology framing) and on a qualitative study of archival and interview data I examine how design and development influence the adoption trajectory of four competing cyber-infrastructure systems comprising the Global Environment for Network Innovations (www.geni.net) over a period of ten years (2001-2011). Findings indicate that a) early design decisions, particularly those related to similar pre-existing systems set a path of adoption in motion leading to the early dominance of one system, b) coordination of milestones led to increased adoption for the high-performing teams, and c) the framing of technology presentations and demos as a social influence strategy was less effective in ?breaking? the dominant system?s adoption path in the long term but enabled most of the development teams to challenge that dominance and increase the adoption of their systems in the short term. While studies in path dependence and dominant design assume that adoption and dominance occurs through users? actions after development is completed, this study?s findings show that developers and managers of competing systems can also influence adoption and even ?break? the dominant system?s adoption path while it?s still under development. Understanding how cyber-infrastructure systems are developed is key to promoting their adoption and use. This research has import for understanding the ramifications of early-stage design decisions, as well as the impact of project coordination and technology presentation strategies such as framing for the adoption of such systems. } } @unpublished{pittir10808, month = {January}, title = {NICOTINE DEPENDENCE AND LABORATORY CUE-INDUCED CIGARETTE CRAVING}, author = {MICHAEL DUNBAR}, year = {2012}, keywords = {CUES, SMOKING, NICOTINE DEPENDENCE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10808/}, abstract = {NICOTINE DEPENDENCE AND LABORATORY CUE-INDUCED CIGARETTE CRAVING Michael Dunbar, M.S. University of Pittsburgh, 2011 Background: The relationship between laboratory cue-induced craving and nicotine dependence is unclear. Some models consider cue-induced craving part of dependence, while others imply that responsiveness to cues disappears with dependence. These relationships are further complicated by different measures of nicotine dependence and craving. Method: Participants (n=207, 57\% men) were daily smokers averaging 15.92 (6.70) cigarettes per day. We examined data from 4 cue-reactivity sessions, with cue sets (smoking, negative affect, positive affect, neutral) counterbalanced across sessions. In each session, after a 30-minute deprivation period, participants viewed 30 cue-relevant photos validated for content and shown over 3 minutes (6 seconds each). Participants rated their craving before and after cues (QSU-Brief, scaled as 1-49). Participants completed measures of nicotine dependence (FTND, NDSS, WISDM-68), which were used to predict craving. Multiple regression models were used to predict cue-induced craving (pre-post cue change scores) for QSU Factors 1 and 2. Results: Dependence measures were associated with background craving across sessions, but did not predict cue change in craving (Factor 1 or 2) for any cue. Conclusion: Laboratory cue-induced craving in response to smoking-relevant cues is unrelated to nicotine dependence, as traditionally assessed. Future work should investigate the relationship between reactivity to cues and actual smoking behavior, in order to better understand how reactivity to cues and dependence may function independently or synergistically to influence smoking behavior.} } @unpublished{pittir11637, month = {May}, title = {Transcription of the Intonation of Northeastern Brazilian Portuguese}, author = {Meghan Dabkowski}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Brazilian Portuguese, Intonation, ToBI}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11637/}, abstract = {Among dialects of Brazilian Portuguese (henceforth BP), the variety spoken in the Northeast region of Brazil is considered to display a distinctive use of intonation. In attempt to understand this characterization, this thesis presents an analysis of the intonational phonology of five main phrase types in Northeastern BP (henceforth NEBP): declarative statements, absolute questions, wh- questions, echo questions, and imperative statements. Contrastive focus, enumeration, and disjunction were also investigated. Participants were 5 female natives of the region currently residing in Pittsburgh, PA. Utterances were elicited using an intonation questionnaire designed to evoke everyday situations (Prieto and Roseano, 2010), which was adapted to BP by the author. This descriptive analysis is couched within Autosegmental Metrical theory, which posits a separate level of linear organization for the pitch track of an utterance, autonomous from the text, or segmental information, but associated with it via tonal alignment with metrically strong syllables and phrase edges. Within this model, the Tone and Break Index (ToBI) system is used to transcribe intonational features. Given that there are no existing transcriptions of the intonation of NEBP within the ToBI system, this study aims to fill that gap by providing a description of various modal and pragmatic uses of intonation. Findings that differentiate this dialect from European and southeastern Brazilian dialects include the consistent use of upstep in marking contrastive focus and two opposing variants for both yes-no questions, and wh-questions. It is hoped that the present findings will add to the body of work on dialectal variation in intonation, and will contribute to our general understanding of intonational patterning across languages. } } @article{pittir29877, volume = {16}, number = {3}, month = {June}, title = {Association between hospital volume and network membership and an analgesia, sedation and delirium order set quality score: A cohort study}, author = {CR Dale and SJ Hayden and MM Treggiari and JR Curtis and CW Seymour and ND Yanez and VS Fan}, year = {2012}, journal = {Critical Care}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29877/}, abstract = {Introduction: Protocols for the delivery of analgesia, sedation and delirium care of the critically ill, mechanically ventilated patient have been shown to improve outcomes but are not uniformly used. The extent to which elements of analgesia, sedation and delirium guidelines are incorporated into order sets at hospitals across a geographic area is not known. We hypothesized that both greater hospital volume and membership in a hospital network are associated with greater adherence of order sets to sedation guidelines.Methods: Sedation order sets from all nonfederal hospitals without pediatric designation in Washington State that provided ongoing care to mechanically ventilated patients were collected and their content systematically abstracted. Hospital data were collected from Washington State sources and interviews with ICU leadership in each hospital. An expert-validated score of order set quality was created based on the 2002 four-society guidelines. Clustered multivariable linear regression was used to assess the relationship between hospital characteristics and the order set quality score.Results: Fifty-one Washington State hospitals met the inclusion criteria and all provided order sets. Based on expert consensus, 21 elements were included in the analgesia, sedation and delirium order set quality score. Each element was equally weighted and contributed one point to the score. Hospital order set quality scores ranged from 0 to 19 (median = 8, interquartile range 6 to 14). In multivariable analysis, a greater number of acute care days (P = 0.01) and membership in a larger hospital network (P = 0.01) were independently associated with a greater quality score.Conclusions: Hospital volume and membership in a larger hospital network were independently associated with a higher quality score for ICU analgesia, sedation and delirium order sets. Further research is needed to determine whether greater order-set quality is associated with improved outcomes in the critically ill. The development of critical care networks might be one strategy to improve order set quality scores. {\copyright} 2012 Dale et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir11989, month = {May}, title = {COMPARING CROSS-CLASSIFIED GROWTH MODELS WITH AND WITHOUT THE CUMULATIVE EFFECT OF TEACHERS TO A HIERARCHICAL GROWTH MODEL ON CROSS-CLASSIFIED DATA}, author = {Laura Daniel}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Value added model Heirarchical linear model Cross classified random effect model}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11989/}, abstract = {Multilevel value-added models (VAMs) have the capability to capture the cumulative effect of students? prior teachers while simultaneously modeling the dependency of various levels. However, some researchers question the applicability of these models because of the absence of random assignment in many applied settings. For example, students are not randomly assigned to teachers and teachers are not randomly assigned to schools. Moreover, there are several obstacles in the implementation of these models, such as cross-classified data structures and limitations in the capacities of statistical software packages. Therefore, the merits of these VAMs have come into question and so the purpose of this simulation study was to compare the performance of a cross-classified VAM with a cumulative effect of teachers to two other teacher evaluation models: a non-cumulative cross-classified model; and a hierarchical model. The most notable finding was that the teacher effect in the value-added cumulative cross-classified model was generally estimated with the least amount of bias. This cross-classified model that utilized the cumulative teacher effect also had the least amounts of error, for the random within-student effect and the random student slope. These results provide supporting evidence for the value-added cumulative cross-classified model.} } @incollection{pittir18950, booktitle = {Aligning national approaches to digital preservation}, title = {Education alignment}, author = {Joy Davidson and Sheila Corrall and George Coulbourne and Andreas Rauber}, address = {Atlanta, GA}, publisher = {Educopia Institute Publications}, year = {2012}, pages = {269 -- 308}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18950/}, abstract = {This essay reviews recent developments in embedding data management and curation skills into information technology, library and information science, and research-based postgraduate courses in various national contexts. The essay also investigates means of joining up formal education with professional development training opportunities more coherently. The potential for using professional internships as a means of improving communication and understanding between disciplines is also explored. A key aim of this essay is to identify what level of complementarity is needed across various disciplines to most effectively and efficiently support the entire data curation lifecycle.} } @article{pittir29786, volume = {10}, month = {December}, title = {No strings attached: New insights into epithelial morphogenesis}, author = {LA Davidson}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Biology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29786/}, abstract = {The dramatic ingression of tissue sheets that accompanies many morphogenetic processes, most notably gastrulation, has been largely attributed to contractile circum-apical actomyosin 'purse-strings' in the infolding cells. Recent studies, however, including one in BMC Biology, expose mechanisms that rely less on actomyosin contractility of purse-string bundles and more on dynamics in the global cortical actomyosin network of the cells. These studies illustrate how punctuated actomyosin contractions and flow of these networks can remodel both epithelial and planarly organized mesenchymal sheets. {\copyright} 2012 Davidson; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir38851, volume = {8}, number = {2}, author = {Tyler W. Davis and Xu Liang and Miguel Navarro and Diviyansh Bhatnagar and Yao Liang}, title = {An Experimental Study of WSN Power Efficiency: MICAz Networks with XMesh}, publisher = {SAGE Publishing}, journal = {International Journal of Distributed Sensor Networks}, pages = {358238}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/38851/}, abstract = {This is an investigation of Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) using Memsic's XMesh routing protocol on MICAz wireless motes. It focuses on the study of the practical aspects of WSNs' power efficiency and network characteristics, which play a critical role in real-word WSN deployments for environmental monitoring. Based on an experimental study and following a quantitative approach, this work examines XMesh's high power and low power operation modes and the data transmission intervals, among other factors. Route utilization was identified as a major contributor of the mote's battery use. A field study was conducted as a point of comparison and the results obtained were comparable to the laboratory tests with regards to the battery life and the mote's route utilization. The network reliability was found to be considerably lower in the field study. In addition, it was found that the original WSN gateway, used during the study, presented severe practical limitations regarding the system's robustness and reliability. To address these problems, we present a solution based on our integrated network and data management system, which successfully facilitates the deployment of a new WSN gateway and significantly improves the operational robustness and reliability of the WSN system.} } @incollection{pittir16035, booktitle = {Applied Physiology in Intensive Care Medicine 2: Physiological Reviews and Editorials}, month = {January}, title = {Can one predict fluid responsiveness in spontaneously breathing patients?}, author = {D De Backer and MR Pinsky}, year = {2012}, pages = {385 -- 387}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16035/}, abstract = {Prediction of fluid responsiveness has become a topic of intense interest. Although measurements of preload, by whatever technique, are still commonly used to guide fluid therapy [1, 2], these fail to estimate the response to fluids in one-half of the patients [3]. Accordingly, many patients may be subjected to the hazards of fluids [4], without benefiting from hemodynamic improvement.} } @article{pittir14347, volume = {49}, number = {6}, month = {November}, title = {Dental anomalies in children born with clefts: A case-control study}, author = {R De Lima Pedro and MDB Faria and MC De Costa and AR Vieira}, year = {2012}, journal = {Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Journal}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14347/}, abstract = {Objective: To determine the presence of specific patterns of dental defects in a group of individuals born with clefts. Design: Case-control. Setting: Nossa Senhora do Loreto Municipal Hospital and Federal University of Rio de Janeiro Pediatric Dentistry Clinics, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Patients: 642 radiographic and clinical records were evaluated for 321 cases and 321 controls. Results: Individuals born with clefts presented considerably more dental anomalies in comparison with controls (p = .0001). The most frequent was tooth agenesis (n = 53; p = .001), followed by supernumerary teeth (n = 14; p = .11) and tooth malposition (n = 11; p = .33). Regarding tooth agenesis, the upper lateral incisors were more frequently absent in the cleft group (31/86), and control individuals presented more agenesis of the mandibular second premolars (19/45). Conclusions: The higher prevalence of dental anomalies, especially number anomalies, opposite the cleft area, in individuals born with cleft lip and/or palate is the most common associated dental anomaly outside the cleft area. {\copyright} Copyright 2012 American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association.} } @unpublished{pittir12725, month = {September}, title = {An Evaluation of the ICD-10-CM System: Documentation Specificity, Reimbursement, and Methods for Improvement (International Classification of Diseases; 10th Revision; Clinical Modification) }, author = {Dilhari DeAlmeida}, year = {2012}, keywords = {ICD-10-CM; Documentation improvement; medical coding; reimbursement}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12725/}, abstract = {The research project consists of three studies to identify the documentation specificity, reimbursement and documentation improvement for the upcoming International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) coding system. A descriptive research study using quantitative methods was conducted for the first study, which focused on coding electronic documents across each major diagnostic chapter for ICD-10-CM. The coding was ranked according to the Watzlaf et al (2007) study where a ranking score was provided if the diagnosis was fully captured by the ICD-10-CM code sets. The ICD-10-CM codes were then compared to the current ICD-9-CM codes to evaluate the details on the descriptions of the codes. The rankings were determined by comparing the ICD-10-CM systems for the number of codes, the level of specificity and the ability of the code description to fully capture the diagnostic term based on the resources available at the time of coding. A descriptive research study using quantitative methods was conducted for the second study, which focused on evaluating the reimbursement differences in coding with ICD-10- CM with and without the supporting documentation. Reimbursement amounts or the MS-DRG (Medicare Severity Diagnosis Related Groups) weight differences were examined to demonstrate the amount of dollars lost due to incomplete documentation. Reimbursement amounts were calculated by running the code set on the CMS ICD-10 grouper. An exploratory descriptive research study using qualitative methods was conducted for the third study which focused on developing a documentation improvement toolkit for providers and technology experts to guide them towards an accurate selection of codes. Furthermore a quick reference checklist geared towards the physician, coders and the information technology development team was developed based on their feedback and documentation needs. The results of the studies highlighted the clinical areas which needed the most documentation attention in order to accurately code in ICD-10-CM and the associated potential loss of revenue due to absent documentation. Further, the results from the educational tool kit could be used in the development of a better inpatient Computer Assisted Coding (CAC) product. } } @unpublished{pittir11901, month = {June}, title = {Community Based Treatment of Tuberculosis in Rural Mozambique}, author = {Brigitte DeGraaf}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Tuberculosis, DOTS, Community based, Mozambique, rural, evaluation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11901/}, abstract = {Abstract Background: Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious disease commonly occurring in the lungs and is spread through the air usually by coughing. This infectious disease is particularly dangerous for individuals with compromised immune systems, like those with HIV/AIDS. Treatment for pulmonary TB infections is a regimen of multiple antibiotics lasting for at least six months. Objectives: Despite complete coverage of treatment costs for TB patients by the Ministry of Health in Mozambique, incidence of the disease remains a high 174 cases per 100,000. The objective of this project is to evaluate World Relief?s (WR) community based TB directly observed therapy short-course (DOTS) treatment program. Methods: Sixty-four TB treatment program volunteers within the three highest populated districts of the province of Gaza were interviewed and data were collected to identify accurate numbers of current community based DOTS patients per district. The central hospital in each district was also visited to directly acquire patient data and interview TB nurses. Results: Currently a total of 153 TB patients are receiving community-based treatment in the three districts visited. On average, each village has one community based DOTS volunteer, and each volunteer oversees the treatment of up to three patients at a time. These volunteers reported positive community reception to TB prevention education yet felt inadequate with the community based DOTS system of treatment as a whole. Conclusions: Based on the data collected and interviews completed, the community based DOTS program was effective in raising community awareness of TB prevention, as well as educating about TB as an infectious disease and TB treatment. The evaluation also concluded that the program lacked proper training and education maintenance for the volunteers in rural villages. Implications for global health: Much potential exists for the community based DOTS program to successfully reduce TB incidence in Mozambique, particularly if WR is able to implement the necessary changes and improvements in volunteer training to its program in order to maximize its effectiveness in the community. The health problem of TB is of considerable public health significance because of the highly contagious nature of the bacteria. Without substantial steps taken to decrease the number of cases particularly in populations of greater susceptibility, the disease will only spread and mortality will increase. A successful decrease in incidence of TB infections in Mozambique would lead to a longer average life span and increased health in the population overall. } } @unpublished{pittir13051, month = {September}, title = {Impressions of Interculturality and Health Care in Bolivia: Three Cases from Cochabamba}, author = {Alana DeLoge}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Bolivia, health care, interculturality}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13051/}, abstract = {Considerable health disparities exist that result in both poorer health outcomes and relatively low accessibility of health care for the world?s indigenous populations. States and global/international health organizations have prioritized indigenous health. Intercultural health care plays a pivotal role in this prioritization. Recent governmental changes in Bolivia, a country in which two thirds of the population self-identify as indigenous, have resulted in state discourse centered on decolonization and interculturality that advocates indigenous rights as well as economic and popular democracy. Research that focuses on how intercultural policies are practiced on the ground or on how individuals are experiencing these policies is lacking. Using qualitative data gathered from semi-structured interviews of three individuals living in and around Cochabamba, Bolivia, this thesis explores participants? thoughts and experiences of interculturality, health, and the Bolivian healthcare system. Results are contextualized 1) through a discussion of the intercultural health care literature based on Latin American examples and 2) according to two health behavior theories: Social Cognitive Theory and the Structural-Ecological Model. The results presented here raise concerns about the implementation and effectiveness of intercultural healthcare policies. Participants have noticed very little change as a result of new polices and are skeptical of the motivations driving interculturality. Additional factors, such as substantial financial barriers, impede intercultural health care. Research that investigates how intercultural health care functions on the ground and in practice in Bolivia has repercussions for health policy on a global scale. The research presented here is of public health importance because, if the goal is to improve the health of indigenous peoples worldwide, a more critical consideration of the implementation of intercultural healthcare efforts, of which this thesis is part, is necessary.} } @unpublished{pittir10787, month = {January}, title = {"No Podemos Comer Billetes": Climate Change and Development in Southern Ecuador}, author = {Lisa Coffield DePaoli}, year = {2012}, keywords = {ecological anthropology, sustainability, human-environment relations, agriculture, agroecology, social movements}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10787/}, abstract = {This project investigates the relationship between autochthonous people and immigrants in a valley of southern Ecuador, specifically in terms of climate change and related moves toward sustainable development. The landscape and environment are frequent topics of conversation, especially concerning the increasingly dry climate. Engagements between individuals often result in dynamic relationships in which people take active steps to curtail human impacts, such as developing new land-use and livelihood strategies. Southern Ecuador has historically experienced the effects of periodic drought, and land degradation is exacerbating the problem. This and other factors, including the relative isolation and lack of rural development in Loja province and the overall economic situation in Ecuador, has resulted in large-scale migration of Ecuadorians from the province of Loja. Paradoxically, the valley in which fieldwork was carried out is also known as the Valley of Longevity and has attracted immigrants from various other countries. Some of these expatriates have lived in the valley for long periods of time and have developed working relationships with Ecuadorians that have proved beneficial in terms of development. This dissertation is the result of 13 months of ethnographic fieldwork that included participant observation, formal and informal interviews, and the analysis of written materials. The project focused specifically on how the local-nonlocal relationship impacts livelihoods, land use change, sustainability, and the perception of and attention to issues surrounding climate change. These themes help us to understand the distributional consequences of changes in agri-food systems, and have led to concern over where food is going to come from because, as some informants have said, ?no podemos comer billetes? (we can?t eat dollar bills). Research shows that the social heterogeneity of the valley fosters mutual learning and benefits and contributes to more varied views of the natural environment and of the use of natural resources. This project demonstrates how responses to climate change and land degradation may be integrated into emerging sustainable development strategies, particularly important because human activity will both drive and mediate the impact of climate change during the next century. } } @article{pittir15595, volume = {7}, number = {7}, month = {July}, author = {Leslie M. Decker and Fabien Cignetti and Jane F. Potter and Stephanie A. Studenski and Nicholas Stergiou}, editor = {Anthony E. Kline}, title = {Use of Motor Abundance in Young and Older Adults during Dual-Task Treadmill Walking}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, pages = {e41306 -- e41306}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15595/} } @article{pittir17650, volume = {3}, number = {2}, month = {December}, author = {Jorge Enrique Delgado and John C Weidman}, title = {Latin American and Caribbean Countries in the Global Quest for World Class Academic Recognition: An Analysis of Publications in Scopus and the Science Citation Index between 1990 and 2010}, publisher = {University Library System, University of Pittsburgh}, year = {2012}, journal = {Excellence in Higher Education}, pages = {111 -- 121}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17650/}, abstract = {{\ensuremath{<}}jats:p{\ensuremath{>}}The article investigates global participation in academic research productivity through the growth of publications from Latin America and the Caribbean (LA\&C) in two of the most prestigious bibliographic indexes, Scopus and the Science Citation Index (SCI). Data were obtained from the SCImago Journal and Country Rank and the Iberian-American and Inter-American Network of Science and Technology Indicators databases. Tables were created for the number of citable documents in Scopus, the publications in SCI, and the comparative indicators of the number of publications in SCI from LA\&C countries adjusted for number of researchers, full-time researchers, inhabitants, and national research and development (R\&D) expenditure. The countries with the highest number of publications since 1990 SCI and 1996 Scopus were Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, and Chile. Colombia shows the largest growth in research productivity over the periods studied and became in 2010 the country with the fifth highest number of publications in both indexes. Comparative indicators adjusted for numbers of researchers, population and national R\&D expenditures do not show clear differences in performance across countries. The article concludes with suggestions for the need to provide greater contextual analysis and including other bibliographic indexes and databases in order to have a fuller understanding of the reasons for particular levels of research productivity across LA\&C countries.{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:p{\ensuremath{>}}} } @unpublished{pittir12378, booktitle = {SPARC Open Access Meeting}, month = {March}, title = {Incentivizing Open Access: the Library as Publisher}, author = {Timothy S Deliyannides}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12378/}, abstract = {Academic libraries are demonstrating an increased commitment to transforming the scholarly publishing industry by becoming publishers themselves. As publisher, the library can take direct action to foster the growth of Open Access publishing as a viable alternative to the traditional publishing model. The University Library System (ULS), University of Pittsburgh has developed an innovative program to support journal publishing services for partners worldwide. Moving beyond support for the home institution, the ULS now offers its services to partners anywhere who share a commitment to Open Access for high-quality peer-reviewed scholarly content. By subsidizing OA publishing, libraries can provide real material support to the principle of Open Access to scholarly research and incentivize scholars worldwide to join in this commitment. To ensure sustainability of its program, the ULS has developed an efficient process and suite of tools with the Public Knowledge Project?s Open Journal Systems (OJS) software as a foundation to work with new publishing partners and encourage them to become nearly self-sufficient in publishing new peer-reviewed content. Thus, each new journal can be added with only very small incremental costs. Strategies to uphold the quality and sustainability of the program include careful selection of publishing partners, the formation of a Publication Advisory Board and the planned introduction of modest cost recovery mechanisms to sustain future growth.} } @unpublished{pittir11161, booktitle = {Faculty Meeting}, month = {February}, title = {Open Access and the new Copyright Policy: greater impact for your research.}, author = {Timothy S Deliyannides and John H Barnett}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11161/} } @unpublished{pittir16127, booktitle = {OA Week 2012 Kick-Off Event for ULS Colleagues}, month = {October}, title = {OA Week 2012: Scholarly Communication \& Publishing Update}, author = {Timothy S Deliyannides and John H Barnett and Jennifer Chan}, year = {2012}, note = {An audio recording of the presentation is available via the "related URL" link.}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16127/}, abstract = {A presentation made for colleagues at the University Library System (ULS), University of Pittsburgh, in celebration of Open Access Week 2012.} } @article{pittir12553, volume = {4}, number = {1}, title = {Model collaboration: university library system and rehabilitation research team to advance telepractice knowledge.}, author = {Timothy S Deliyannides and Vanessa Gabler}, year = {2012}, pages = {3 -- 6}, journal = {Int J Telerehabil}, keywords = {Open Access journal, telerehabilitation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12553/}, abstract = {This Publisher's Report describes the collaboration between a university library system's scholarly communication and publishing office and a federally funded research team, the Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center (RERC) on Telerehabilitation. This novel interdisciplinary collaboration engages librarians, information technologists, publishing professionals, clinicians, policy experts, and engineers and has produced a new Open Access journal, International Journal of Telerehabilitation, and a developing, interactive web-based product dedicated to disseminating information about telerehabilitation. Readership statistics are presented for March 1, 2011 - February 29, 2012.} } @unpublished{pittir16831, month = {December}, title = {Overcoming Self-Reactivity Through Immunological and Metabolic Redox Modulation}, author = {Meghan/M Delmastro-Greenwood}, year = {2012}, keywords = {redox modulation, type 1 diabetes, oxidative stress, type 2 diabetes, bioenergetics, TH1 T cells}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16831/}, abstract = {The importance of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is illustrated by their crucial roles in immunology and disease pathologies. ROS can activate redox-dependent transcription factors, promoting a host of proinflammatory immune responses that are exacerbated during oxidative stress. The aim of this thesis is to determine how redox modulation impairs self-reactivity and aberrant inflammation in diabetes. Prevention of CD4+ TH1 T cell activation is critical for restricting autoreactive immune responses and maintaining pancreatic {\ensuremath{\beta}} cell integrity in type 1 diabetes. Moreover, decreasing the inflammatory milieu and subsequent complications is necessary for restoring insulin sensitivity in type 2 diabetes. Although current immunosuppressive therapies are invaluable for transplantations, small molecule inhibitors with low toxicity are necessary for stopping autoreactivity and treating inflammatory-driven metabolic diseases. We utilized a catalytic antioxidant (CA) in diabetogenic models based on previous work demonstrating that redox modulation promotes T cell hyporesponsivness and impairs innate cell cytokine secretion by blocking NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B activation. Additionally, CA sustains health of isolated islets, delays islet allograft rejection, and inhibits transfer of diabetes into young NOD.scid mice. First, the mechanisms behind CA-mediated CD4+ TH1 T cell hyporesponsivness were investigated in vitro and in vivo using diabetogenic murine experiments with a focus on the redox-dependent sheddase TACE and one of its substrate, LAG-3, a negative regulator of T cell activation. Ability to track type 1 diabetes progression through a serum biomarker, soluble LAG-3, was also assessed from both murine and human samples. Next, CA-mediated alteration(s) of immune cell metabolism was characterized. Effects on glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation were assessed to determine additional mechanisms of regulation and where treatment efficiency wanes. Lastly, redox modulation was evaluated in treatment of high-fat diet-induced type 2 diabetes. Markers of inflammation and diabetic complications were measured to ascertain the severity of insulin resistance. Collectively, this work is a distinct contribution to the knowledge of CA treatment and its ability to 1) inhibit diabetogenic TH1 responses through regulation of a redox-dependent metalloprotease and subsequent cleavage of a negative T cell surface marker; 2) prevent self-reactivity through metabolic regulation; and 3) reduce inflammation and complications in high-fat diet-induced type 2 diabetes. } } @article{pittir38822, volume = {2012}, title = {Alternative Splicing of a Novel Inducible Exon Diversifies the CASK Guanylate Kinase Domain}, author = {Jill A. Dembowski and Ping An and Maritsa Scoulos-Hanson and Gene Yeo and Joonhee Han and Xiang-Dong Fu and Paula J. Grabowski}, publisher = {Hindawi Limited}, year = {2012}, pages = {1--15}, journal = {Journal of Nucleic Acids}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/38822/}, abstract = {Alternative pre-mRNA splicing has a major impact on cellular functions and development with the potential to fine-tune cellular localization, posttranslational modification, interaction properties, and expression levels of cognate proteins. The plasticity of regulation sets the stage for cells to adjust the relative levels of spliced mRNA isoforms in response to stress or stimulation. As part of an exon profiling analysis of mouse cortical neurons stimulated with high KCl to induce membrane depolarization, we detected a previously unrecognized exon (E24a) of the CASK gene, which encodes for a conserved peptide insertion in the guanylate kinase interaction domain. Comparative sequence analysis shows that E24a appeared selectively in mammalian CASK genes as part of a {\ensuremath{>}}3,000 base pair intron insertion. We demonstrate that a combination of a naturally defective 5 splice site and negative regulation by several splicing factors, including SC35 (SRSF2) and ASF/SF2 (SRSF1), drives E24a skipping in most cell types. However, this negative regulation is countered with an observed increase in E24a inclusion after neuronal stimulation and NMDA receptor signaling. Taken together, E24a is typically a skipped exon, which awakens during neuronal stimulation with the potential to diversify the protein interaction properties of the CASK polypeptide.} } @unpublished{pittir12256, month = {June}, title = {Breastfeeding the Late Preterm Infant: A Grounded Theory Study}, author = {Jill Radtke Demirci}, year = {2012}, keywords = {breast feeding; lactation; infant, preterm; late preterm; grounded theory; theoretical model}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12256/}, abstract = {Late preterm infants (LPIs), born between 34 0/7 and 36 6/7 weeks gestation, are reported to experience suboptimal breastfeeding rates and significant morbidity related to inadequate breast milk intake. Although unrecognized physiological immaturities are often implicated in these issues, breastfeeding is a complex phenomenon impacted by multiple and interrelated social, medical, and system-level factors. This dissertation addresses the available evidence on breastfeeding outcomes and patterns within the LPI population and also includes a population-level analysis of LPI breastfeeding initiation. The main study, however, utilized grounded theory techniques to examine the maternal experience of breastfeeding a late preterm infant. Ten late preterm mother-infant dyads participated in the study, which incorporated serial interviews and several other data collection methods, over a 6-8 week period after delivery. Breastfeeding in the LPI population was found to be a fluctuating, cascade-like progression of trial and error, influenced by a multitude of contextual factors and events and culminating in breastfeeding continuation (with or without future caveats regarding breastfeeding duration or exclusivity) or cessation. The trajectory was explained by the basic psychosocial process Weighing Worth against Uncertain Work, which encompassed the tension between breastfeeding motivation, the intensity of breastfeeding work, and ambiguity surrounding infant behavior and feeding cues. Several sub-processes were also identified: Playing the Game; Letting Him be the Judge vs. Accommodating Both of Us; and Questioning Worth vs. Holding out Hope. Our theoretical model indicates that mothers of LPIs require early, extended, and intensive breastfeeding support that emphasizes management strategies and the connection between infant prematurity and observed behaviors.} } @article{pittir29941, volume = {16}, number = {2}, author = {Demet Demirkol and Dincer Yildizdas and Benan Bayrakci and Bulent Karapinar and Tanil Kendirli and Tolga F Koroglu and Oguz Dursun and Nilg{\"u}n Erkek and Hakan Gedik and Agop Citak and Selman Kesici and Metin Karabocuoglu and Joseph A Carcillo}, title = {Hyperferritinemia in the critically ill child with secondary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis/sepsis/multiple organ dysfunction syndrome/macrophage activation syndrome: what is the treatment?}, publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC}, journal = {Critical Care}, pages = {R52 -- R52}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29941/} } @article{pittir19882, volume = {36}, number = {3}, month = {June}, author = {GE Derrick and A Hayen and S Chapman and AS Haynes and BM Webster and I Anderson}, title = {A bibliometric analysis of research on Indigenous health in Australia, 1972-2008}, journal = {Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health}, pages = {269 -- 273}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19882/}, abstract = {Objective: To determine the growth patterns and citation volume of research publications referring to Indigenous health in Australia from 1972 to 2008 compared to seven selected health fields. Methods: Web of Science was used to identify all publications (n=820) referring to the health of Indigenous Australians authored by Australian researchers, 1972 to 2008. Citations for each publication were also captured. Growth was compared with selected health fields as well as with overall Australian research publications. Results: Research publications referring to Indigenous health, while remaining relatively small in number, grew at an average annual rate of 14.1\%, compared with 8.2\% across all fields of Australian research. The growth rate shown was equal second highest in our seven categories of health and medical research. However, Indigenous publications were cited significantly less than the Australian average. Conclusions: While there has been positive growth in publications referring to Indigenous health, the attention paid to this research through citations remains disappointingly low. Implications: Given that research concentration and impact can be an index of how seriously a nation considers a health problem, the low visibility of Australian research examining Indigenous health does not demonstrate a level of concern commensurate with the gravity of Indigenous health problems. Further investigation for the reasons for lower citations may identify potential intervention strategies. {\copyright} 2012 Public Health Association of Australia.} } @unpublished{pittir12815, month = {September}, title = {Fusion of Human Serum Albumin to Human Apolipoprotein E Peptide as a Novel Inhibitor of Hepatitis C Virus entry}, author = {Brandon Deshmukh}, year = {2012}, keywords = {hepatitis c, apolipoprotein E, peptide}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12815/}, abstract = {The hepatitis C virus (HCV) affects an estimated 3\% of the world?s population making it a major threat to human health. Currently, the most common treatment for those infected with the virus includes a combination of pegylated interferon (IFN-{\ensuremath{\alpha}}) with ribavirin. This treatment is effective only 40-80\% of the time and causes severe side effects leading to low patient compliance. In 2011, two anti-HCV drugs, telaprevir and boceprevir, were put on the market. Both of these drugs are viral protease inhibitors, and are expected to face drug resistance in the future due to the development of viral quasispecies. Due to the uncertainty and problems the current HCV treatments face, there is an urgent need to develop more effective anti-HCV therapies. The blocking of HCV entry into human hepatocytes has promise. Our lab has already developed a novel anti-HCV peptide called human apolipoprotein E peptide (hEP) which was shown to potently block HCV entry into Huh7.5.1 cells at very low concentrations, as well as lower plasma cholesterol levels and suppress inflammation in mice. At the same time, this peptide was non-toxic to cells. The combination of potently blocking viral entry, as well as maintaining the integrity of the cells treated makes hEP a promising anti-HCV therapeutic. In order to increase the stability of hEP, we believed that fusing it to human serum albumin would increase its pharmacokinetics, shelf life, as well as lower the necessary dosage needed to elicit anti-viral effects. This rationale was based on the findings of another group which showed that the fusion of IFN-{\ensuremath{\alpha}} to human serum albumin increased its half-life. The methylotropic yeast strain X-33 Pichia pastoris was used to produce the hEP and human serum albumin recombinant fusion protein. After successfully producing the recombinant proteins of interest, we saw viral inhibition among one of our hEP fusion proteins, demonstrating its efficacy and public health significance.} } @article{pittir19187, volume = {100}, number = {4}, month = {October}, author = {EG Detlefsen}, title = {Teaching about teaching and instruction on instruction: A challenge for health sciences library education}, journal = {Journal of the Medical Library Association}, pages = {244 -- 250}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19187/}, abstract = {Objective: This is a review of the master's-level curricula of the fifty-eight America Library Association-accredited library and information science programs and iSchools for evidence of coursework and content related to library instruction. Special emphasis is placed on the schools and programs that also offer coursework in medical or health sciences librarianship. Methods: Fifty-eight school and program websites were reviewed. Course titles and course descriptions for seventy-three separate classes were analyzed. Twenty-three syllabi were examined. Results: All North American library education programs offer at least one course in the general area of library instruction; some programs offer multiple courses. No courses on instruction, however, are focused directly on the specialized area of health sciences librarianship. Conclusions: Master's degree students can take appropriate classes on library instruction, but the medical library profession needs to offer continuing education opportunities for practitioners who want to have specific instruction for the specialized world of the health sciences.} } @article{pittir13398, volume = {23}, number = {2}, author = {Ellen G Detlefsen}, title = {The 2010-2011 Dissertation and Thesis Round-up.}, publisher = {Medical Library Association}, journal = {Hypothesis: The Journal of the Research Section, Medical Library Association}, pages = {19 -- 23}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13398/}, abstract = {none available} } @article{pittir13402, volume = {52}, number = {5}, month = {May}, author = {Ellen G Detlefsen}, title = {Medical Library Education: Ave Atque Vale!}, publisher = {Medical Library Association}, year = {2012}, journal = {MLA News}, pages = {9 -- ?}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13402/}, abstract = {none available} } @article{pittir13401, volume = {52}, number = {2}, month = {February}, author = {Ellen G Detlefsen}, title = {Medical Library Education: What Should We Be Teaching in Library and Information Programs?}, publisher = {Medical Library Association}, year = {2012}, journal = {MLA News}, pages = {1,7 -- ?}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13401/}, abstract = {none available} } @article{pittir15685, volume = {91}, number = {10}, month = {October}, author = {BE Dicianno and H Mahajan and AS Guirand and RA Cooper}, title = {Virtual electric power wheelchair driving performance of individuals with spastic cerebral palsy}, journal = {American Journal of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation}, pages = {823 -- 830}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15685/}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Upper limb spasticity may impair the use of control interfaces such as joysticks for many individuals with disabilities such as cerebral palsy (CP). The aims of this study were to compare the driving performance of those with CP to that of control participants, to identify the impact of lead time on performance, and to compare two joystick designs, a standard movement sensing joystick and a novel isometric joystick. DESIGN: This study used a repeated-measures design to compare the performance of a group of participants with CP to that of participants without disabilities in a two-dimensional simulated driving task on a computer screen using the two control interfaces. The driving trials used varying "lead times," or the amount of warning time available to make movement decisions and turns. A total of 34 participants with CP and without disability were matched by age and sex into two groups. RESULTS: Participants with CP had lower driving performance in most variables of interest compared with controls. However, surprisingly, reducing lead time also reduced some performance errors, possibly because of more deliberate driving. The isometric joystick outperformed the movement sensing joystick in terms of performance errors but contributed to a prolonged reaction time. CONCLUSIONS: The isometric joystick was preferred by participants over the movement sensing joystick in this study and may be a future alternative for individuals with CP for both power mobility and computer access tasks. Copyright {\copyright} 2012 by Lippincott Williams \& Wilkins.} } @article{pittir29944, volume = {11}, number = {1}, month = {December}, title = {Dietitians use and recommend dietary supplements: report of a survey}, author = {Annette Dickinson and Leslie Bonci and Nicolas Boyon and Julio C Franco}, year = {2012}, journal = {Nutrition Journal}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29944/} } @unpublished{pittir11156, month = {March}, title = {SIV increases susceptibility to tuberculosis by manipulating M. tuberculosis-specific immunological responses}, author = {Collin Diedrich}, year = {2012}, keywords = {tuberculosis, HIV, SIV, co-infection, immunology, T cell, macrophage, IL-5, animal model, NHP}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11156/}, abstract = {The emergence of human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV) exacerbated the already enormous number of cases of tuberculosis (TB) worldwide because HIV dramatically increases the susceptibility of humans to TB. The cause of this increased susceptibility to TB in HIV-infected individuals is not fully understood. In this thesis, I developed an SIV/TB cynomolgus macaque model and multiple in vitro and ex vivo assays to examine how HIV induces reactivation of latent TB and how HIV reduces various M. tuberculosis-specific immunological responses. In the animal model, I provide evidence that initial T cell depletion after SIV inoculation in monkeys with latent TB perturbs the control of the infection, and directly corresponds to the reactivation of TB. There was also a quantifiable decrease in the total number of T cells within granulomatous lung tissue in co-infected reactivated animals compared to animals with active TB without SIV. A significant decrease in IFN-{\ensuremath{\gamma}} releasing T cells in lung draining lymph nodes of co-infected monkeys compared to monkeys with active disease also was observed. In in vitro and ex vivo experiments we determined that the addition of exogenous SIVmac251 to cells from monkeys infected with M. tuberculosis (without SIV) leads to a specific decrease in TNF and IFN-{\ensuremath{\gamma}} production in M. tuberculosis-specific T cells between 12 and 24hrs after incubation. This decrease in T cell cytokine production was caused by SIV-induced disruption in antigen presenting cells. Specifically, the decrease in TNF production by M. tuberculosis-specific T cells was caused, at least in part, by SIV-induced IL-5 production by monocytes, which demonstrates a novel role for IL-5. The wide range of experiments implemented in this thesis provides novel evidence for the increased susceptibility of TB in HIV-infected individuals. } } @unpublished{pittir12473, month = {July}, title = {THE EFFECT OF IMPREGNATED GLASS FIBERS ON THE FLEXURAL STRENGTH OF ACRYLIC AND COMPOSITE RESIN: AN IN-VITRO STUDY }, author = {Christopher Dindal}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Glass fibers; Flexural strength; Resin reinforcement}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12473/}, abstract = {Objective: The aim of this in-vitro study is to compare flexural strength of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and bis-acryl composite (BAC) resin material reinforced with impregnated glass fibers. Materials and Methods: Two groups of rectangular test specimens (n=20) were fabricated. One group contained PMMA acrylic and the other contained bis-acryl composite resin material. The experimental groups contained impregnated glass fiber reinforcement and the non-reinforced group served as the control. Flexural strength of the specimens was measured by a universal testing machine until fracture. The mean flexural strength (N) was compared by a two way ANOVA test and followed by a simple main effect, using a significance level of 0.05. Results: For reinforced groups, the mean flexural strength of PMMA resin increased from 349.4N (+/- 23.4) to 613.6N (+/-54.2). For BAC resin, the mean flexural strength increased from 513.6N (+/-103.1) to 603.5N (+/-50.5). Reinforced PMMA resin was highly significant (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.001) compared to BAC resin (p=0.150). At the non-reinforced control groups, the flexural strength BAC resin was significantly higher than PMMA resin group (p=0.036). Conclusion: Although impregnated glass fiber increased the flexural strength of both PMMA and BAC groups, it was significantly higher for PMMA resin. At the non-reinforced control groups, the flexural strength of BAC resin was significantly higher than PMMA. } } @article{pittir29926, volume = {16}, number = {2}, month = {April}, title = {Protocol-directed care in the ICU: Making a future generation of intensivists less knowledgeable?}, author = {E Diringer and S Yende}, year = {2012}, journal = {Critical Care}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29926/}, abstract = {Background: Clinical protocols are associated with improved patient outcomes; however, they may negatively affect medical education by removing trainees from clinical decision making.Methods: Objective: To study the relationship between critical care training with mechanical ventilation protocols and subsequent knowledge about ventilator management.Design: A retrospective cohort equivalence study linking a national survey of mechanical ventilation protocol availability with knowledge about mechanical ventilation. Exposure to protocols was defined as high intensity if an intensive care unit had 2 or more protocols for at least 3 years and as low intensity if 0 or 1 protocol.Setting: Accredited US pulmonary and critical care fellowship programs.Subjects: First-time examinees of the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Critical Care Medicine Certification Examination in 2008 and 2009.Intervention: N/A. Outcomes: Knowledge, measured by performance on examination questions specific to mechanical ventilation management, calculated as a mechanical ventilation score using item response theory. The score is standardized to a mean (SD) of 500 (100), and a clinically important difference is defined as 25. Variables included in adjusted analyses were birth country, residency training country, and overall first-attempt score on the ABIM Internal Medicine Certification Examination.Results: The 90 of 129 programs (70\%) responded to the survey. Seventy seven programs (86\%) had protocols for ventilation liberation, 66 (73\%) for sedation management, and 54 (60\%) for lung-protective ventilation at the time of the survey. Eighty eight (98\%) of these programs had trainees who completed the ABIM Critical Care Medicine Certification Examination, totaling 553 examinees. Of these 88 programs, 27 (31\%) had 0 protocols, 19 (22\%) had 1 protocol, 24 (27\%) had 2 protocols, and 18 (20\%) had 3 protocols for at least 3 years. 42 programs (48\%) were classified as high intensity and 46 (52\%) as low intensity, with 304 trainees (55\%) and 249 trainees (45\%), respectively. In bi-variable analysis, no difference in mean scores was observed in high-intensity (497; 95\% CI, 486-507) vs low-intensity programs (497; 95\% CI, 485-509). Mean difference was 0 (95\% CI, -16 to 16), with a positive value indicating a higher score in the high-intensity group. In multivariable analyses, no association of training was observed in a high-intensity program with mechanical ventilation score (adjusted mean difference, -5.36; 95\% CI, -20.7 to 10.0).Conclusions: Among first-time ABIM Critical Care Medicine Certification Examination examinees, training in a high-intensity ventilator protocol environment compared with a low-intensity environment was not associated with worse performance on examination questions about mechanical ventilation management. {\copyright} 2012 BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir24612, volume = {9}, number = {1}, month = {March}, author = {CF Djoko and ND Wolfe and AF Aghokeng and M LeBreton and F Liegeois and U Tamoufe and BS Schneider and N Ortiz and WF Mbacham and JK Carr and AW Rimoin and JN Fair and BL Pike and E Mpoudi-Ngole and E Delaporte and DS Burke and M Peeters}, title = {Failure to detect simian immunodeficiency virus infection in a large cameroonian cohort with high non-human primate exposure}, journal = {EcoHealth}, pages = {17 -- 23}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/24612/}, abstract = {Hunting and butchering of wildlife in Central Africa are known risk factors for a variety of human diseases, including HIV/AIDS. Due to the high incidence of human exposure to body fluids of non-human primates, the significant prevalence of simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) in non-human primates, and hunting/butchering associated cross-species transmission of other retroviruses in Central Africa, it is possible that SIV is actively transmitted to humans from primate species other than mangabeys, chimpanzees, and/or gorillas. We evaluated SIV transmission to humans by screening 2,436 individuals that hunt and butcher non-human primates, a population in which simian foamy virus and simian T-lymphotropic virus were previously detected. We identified 23 individuals with high seroreactivity to SIV. Nucleic acid sequences of SIV genes could not be detected, suggesting that SIV infection in humans could occur at a lower frequency than infections with other retroviruses, including simian foamy virus and simian T-lymphotropic virus. Additional studies on human populations at risk for non-human primate zoonosis are necessary to determine whether these results are due to viral/host characteristics or are indicative of low SIV prevalence in primate species consumed as bushmeat as compared to other retroviruses in Cameroon. {\copyright} 2012 International Association for Ecology and Health.} } @unpublished{pittir11786, month = {June}, title = {Three Essays Examining the Various Identity Expressive Functions of Brands}, author = {Sara Dommer}, year = {2012}, keywords = {brands social identity brand relationships belonging differentiation self-concept}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11786/}, abstract = {Previous research has shown that consumers? use of identity expressive brands serves a variety of purposes ? belongingness, enhanced self-concept, coping, etc. This dissertation builds on this stream of research in three important ways. First, I contribute to the discussion of why consumers use brands to express identity by identifying two motivations that have been overlooked in the literature: differentiation and reducing self-discrepancy. Secondly, in addition to addressing why consumers use brands as vehicles of identity expression, this dissertation also looks at who prefers identity-expressive brands and circumstances under which they are more likely to prefer such brands. I examine the roles of gender, self-esteem, individuals? need to belong, and self-discrepancy, as well as various circumstantial factors such as social exclusion, social inclusion, and self-threat in affecting preference for identity expressive brands. Finally, this dissertation also examines the implications of identity-expressive brands in areas of consumer behavior outside of the literature on brands and consumer-brand relationships. Specifically, I argue that the identity associations of goods will moderate the endowment effect. In line with the ownership account for the endowment effect, I propose that owning a good leads to a psychological association with the good and that identity associations can strengthen or weaken this possession-self link and subsequently moderate the valuations owners place on such goods. Thus, I extend the discussion of brands and products as identity-expressive vehicles beyond the questions of who, why, and when to further understand the much larger implications of such findings. This dissertation is comprised of three essays which examine differentiation and self-discrepancy as motivators of consumers? use of brands to express identity (Essays 2 and 3), individual differences and circumstantial factors as moderators of such effects (Essays 1, 2, and 3), and the larger implications of the use of brands as vehicles of identity expression (Essay 1). I conclude with a discussion of implications of my findings and suggestions for future research.} } @article{pittir17604, volume = {2}, month = {July}, author = {Jennifer Donnelly}, title = {Mirror of Time: Temporality and Contemporaneity in the work of Jorge Luis Borges}, publisher = {University Library System, University of Pittsburgh}, journal = {Contemporaneity: Historical Presence in Visual Culture}, pages = {75 -- 87}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17604/}, abstract = {{\ensuremath{<}}jats:p{\ensuremath{>}}Borges recognized the cracking facade of modernity and the fragility of its monist absolutisms, its commitment to linearity, and its faith in historical progress.  By disavowing the ability of time to be contained within any collective structure of representation, Borges both refutes modernist conceptions of time and offers insight into recent theories of contemporaneity.  A contemporaneous reading of Borges opens lucid temporal relationships, challenges assumptions about the affinities between the self and time, allows for the existence of multiple temporal antimonies, and ultimately reveals the contemporaneous relationship between individual sensations of time of the collective structural composition of temporality.{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:p{\ensuremath{>}}} } @article{pittir29957, volume = {20}, month = {February}, title = {The role of chiropractic care in older adults}, author = {PE Dougherty and C Hawk and DK Weiner and B Gleberzon and K Andrew and L Killinger}, year = {2012}, journal = {Chiropractic and Manual Therapies}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29957/}, abstract = {There are a rising number of older adults; in the US alone nearly 20\% of the population will be 65 or older by 2030. Chiropractic is one of the most frequently utilized types of complementary and alternative care by older adults, used by an estimated 5\% of older adults in the U.S. annually. Chiropractic care involves many different types of interventions, including preventive strategies. This commentary by experts in the field of geriatrics, discusses the evidence for the use of spinal manipulative therapy, acupuncture, nutritional counseling and fall prevention strategies as delivered by doctors of chiropractic. Given the utilization of chiropractic services by the older adult, it is imperative that providers be familiar with the evidence for and the prudent use of different management strategies for older adults. {\copyright} 2012 Dougherty et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir19154, month = {January}, title = {Connecting with fans in under 140 characters: Participation frameworks in the NHL's use of Twitter}, school = {University of Pittsburgh}, author = {Fawn Draucker}, publisher = {University of Pittsburgh}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Participation, frameworks, social, media, Twitter, computer-mediated, communication, team-fan, interaction, National, Hockey, League}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19154/}, abstract = {As social media become more prevalent, they provide opportunities for both individuals and organizations to communicate in new and innovative ways. Many professional and collegiate sports teams have taken advantage of these media to reach their fan bases, with Twitter in particular taking a strong hold in the sports world. Twitter has been shown to provide a way for sports organizations to not only provide fans with updated news and information about the team, but also to provide so-called backstage information, showing off the personalities of players, coaches, and owners (Gregory, 2009). While there has been a significant push to use such ?insider? information to make fans feel more engaged with the team, participation structures are often overlooked as a potential tool for engaging fans via social media. Complex participation structures are available in interaction, and these structures can be manipulated to display stances and alignments to both the interaction and its participants and to the talk itself (Irvine, 1996; Hill and Zepeda, 1992). In order to understand how these participation structures can be manipulated to evoke different stances, a vocabulary and framework for discussing these structures are needed. Using the National Hockey League (NHL) and its official team accounts as a case study, this paper adds to the current body of research on the interactional use of social media tool Twitter by analyzing Goffman?s (1981) concept of participation frameworks, examining the ways that language use on Twitter both embodies and challenges the traditional participation roles enacted in face-to-face conversation. Through analysis of a corpus of 4,266 tweets produced by the NHL team accounts in a one-week span in March 2011, this project looks to define the participant roles and frameworks available to sports organizations in producing talk for their fans via Twitter. This analysis suggests that while Goffman?s conventional participant roles can be extended to this medium, they are not sufficient on their own for describing the interactions between sports teams and their fans on Twitter, indicating the need for both new participant roles and revised conceptions of these traditional roles. Finally, linguistic tools specific to the Twitter medium, such as @mentions and \#hashtag terms, are discussed in regards to their role in manipulating the participation frameworks available to NHL team accounts.} } @unpublished{pittir30891, booktitle = {InfoSocial}, month = {October}, title = {To RT or not to RT: Authorship and attribution on Twitter}, author = {Fawn Draucker and Lauren Brittany Collister}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Twitter, participation, Goffman}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/30891/}, abstract = {In 2009, Twitter changed its interface to include a ?retweet? function to accommodate a user-created convention for rebroadcasting text written by others. However, while the new retweet function did not allow for the range of use of the original user-created retweet. As a result, currently there exist two forms of retweeting: Twitter?s new retweet function and the older, user-generated retweet. Users deploy both of these forms to indicate different alignments to their talk. As Hill and Zepeda (1992) show in their work on vernacular narrative, users have different strategies for displaying alignment or distance with their own talk. Furthermore, authorship and responsibility for talk is a concern for Twitter users. The two styles of retweeting are one way to resolve these concerns. Based on evidence from a corpus of tweets, we argue that the two retweet styles allow users to manipulate available participation structures to indicate their relationship to the retweeted text. The new retweet is limited in function by not allowing new content added by the retweeter; the old retweet is broader in its affordances in that the retweeter can add a comment. The new retweet assumes implicit alignment, while the old retweet allows more options for alignment. Twitter changed its interface based on interaction patterns, and this change resulted in the emergence of a new pattern incorporating both the new feature and the old convention. This evolution of interaction patterns is built on complex arrangements of participant structures, and reveals a dialogic relationship between users and their technology.} } @article{pittir26304, volume = {I}, number = {24}, month = {December}, author = {Juan Duchesne Winter}, title = {Caribe interior exc{\'e}ntrico: un asomo a un espacio wayuu}, publisher = {Observatorio del Caribe Colombiano}, year = {2012}, journal = {AGUAITA Revista del observatorio del Caribe Colombiano}, pages = {100 -- 109}, keywords = {Wayuu, Indians, Colombia, Venezuela, Caribbean, Literature, Indigenous, Literatures}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/26304/}, abstract = {Wayuu indigenous literature from Colombia and Venezuela implies an alternative cosmography of the Caribbean that mends its insular delinking from continental indigenous cultures. Indigenous cultures and literatures help to conceive the Caribbean as a reticular space defined by relations more than by an area and its borders.} } @unpublished{pittir13614, month = {September}, title = {Orthographic Quality in English as a Second Language}, author = {Susan Dunlap}, year = {2012}, keywords = {spelling adult learners English L2}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13614/}, abstract = {Learning new vocabulary words in a second language is a challenge for the adult learner, especially when the second language writing system differs from the first language writing system. According to the lexical quality hypothesis (Perfetti \& Hart, 2001), there are three constituents to word-level knowledge: orthographic, phonological, and semantic. A set of studies investigated the nature of orthographic knowledge in advanced learners of English as a second language. In a data mining study, students? spelling errors were analyzed. Results showed that first language background and second language proficiency have an effect on the rates and types of spelling errors made. In two training interventions, students showed learning gains from two different types of spelling instruction: a form focus condition and a form-meaning integration condition (Norris \& Ortega, 2000). In a separate audio dictation task, non-native English speakers were shown to be sensitive to word frequency and age of acquisition but not regularity. In a cross-modal matching task, the same students were most susceptible to transposition foils that preserved target letters but in an incorrect order, and least susceptible to phonological foils that preserved phonological but not orthographic form of the target word. In a spell checking task, students had more difficulty rejecting misspelled words that maintained the phonological form of the target word than misspelled words that did not preserve phonology of the target. Overall, findings suggest that intermediate to advanced learners of English as a second language still show difficulty with the language?s deep orthography, but that they can benefit from minimal amounts of instruction. Furthermore, these students appear to be acquiring orthographic knowledge via exemplar-based rather than rule-based strategies. This research expands upon the lexical quality hypothesis and finds support for the arbitrary mapping hypothesis.} } @article{pittir15900, volume = {7}, number = {9}, month = {September}, title = {Inflammation, coagulation and cardiovascular disease in HIV-infected individuals}, author = {DA Duprez and J Neuhaus and LH Kuller and R Tracy and W Belloso and S De Wit and F Drummond and HC Lane and B Ledergerber and J Lundgren and D Nixon and NI Paton and RJ Prineas and JD Neaton}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15900/}, abstract = {Background: The SMART study was a trial of intermittent use of antiretroviral therapy (ART) (drug conservation [DC]) versus continuous use of ART (viral suppression [VS]) as a strategy to reduce toxicities, including cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. We studied the predictive value of high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and D-dimer with CVD morbidity and mortality in HIV-infected patients who were enrolled in SMART beyond other measured CVD risk factors.} } @unpublished{pittir12011, month = {June}, title = {HIV-1 infection induced microRNA expression profile and its downstream effects on cellular transcriptome}, author = {Karolina Duskova}, year = {2012}, keywords = {miRNA, mRNA, profiling, HIV-1 viral load}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12011/}, abstract = {HIV-1 infected individuals show a remarkable variation in virus replication and disease progression. Host cellular gene expression as a response to virus infection is directly correlated with disease patterns. Here, we examine the role of microRNAs on mRNA regulation and its effect in HIV-1 disease progression by performing a comparative microRNA and mRNA profiling. Total RNA was extracted from subjects with high viral load (HVL)({\ensuremath{>}}45,000 copies/ml), low viral load (LVL) ({\texttt{\char126}}{\ensuremath{<}}40 copies/ml), and uninfected controls. RNA was quality tested and then reverse transcribed and tested using a Megaplex Real-time PCR for the quantification of expression of 754 miRNAs, in addition to controls, using a high throughput array. Transcriptome profiling was carried out using Illumina HT-12 array, which targets more than 28,688 annotated genes with more than 47,231 probes. Computational analysis to find the mRNA targets of significantly differentially regulated miRNAs was performed with the expression values of both miRNA and mRNA, supplemented with a GenMir++. HIV-1 infection with high viral load significantly dysregulated the miRNA profile in the infected individuals compared to uninfected or LVL group, whereas infection with low viral load produced a less distinctive profile compared to the controls. These differences are independent of age within these populations. Independent validations confirmed the high throughput results in 65-85\% in independent donors. GO enrichment analysis further showed 34 significant terms iv of biological processes in the high viral load compared to controls. A less distinctive profile was seen in the low viral load samples compared to controls on both the miRNA and mRNA levels. Biological validation studies also confirmed the expression of HIV induced host cellular factors in in vitro infected samples. Together, these results indicate that HIV-1 infection differentially regulates host cellular transcriptome through miRNA expression. Public health relevance: Viral load significantly upregulates miRNA expression, which translates to an altered expression on the mRNA level. The discovery of microRNAs that play a role in HIV infection could lead to the development of new biomarkers that could be used to identify disease progression within the infected individuals as well as the infected individuals? ability to respond to antiviral treatment.} } @unpublished{pittir10535, month = {January}, title = {Betwixt and Between: How first-generation immigrant Africans in Pittsburgh use social capital and transnational phenomena to cross cultures to find belonging.}, author = {Ervin Dyer}, year = {2012}, keywords = {immigration, social capital, transnational}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10535/}, abstract = {In this thesis, I examine the notion of ?betwixt and between,? or rather the concept of how first-generation African immigrants constantly travel across cultures. More first-generation African immigrants are living in the Pittsburgh community than ever before. In this emerging diaspora community, we are able see their cross-cultural flows between their homeland and hostland cultures. I argue that being betwixt and between allows the first-generation immigrant to flow amid materials, habits, and languages to find belonging and attachment. The flow between cultures is transnational ? it is an exchange of space and materials, images, ideas and values that moves across nation-state boundaries. The flow of betwixt and between is set in motion by the search for social capital, which allows the first-generation immigrant to simultaneously hold on to the old ? the ways of the home country ? while building attachment to the new ? the host country. My work is qualitative and ethnographic, using in-depth interviews and observations and is drawn from a sample of six nationalities, both genders, and diverse educational and socio-economic backgrounds that create the quilt of immigrant African society in Pittsburgh. } } @article{pittir18856, volume = {89}, number = {4}, month = {August}, author = {TP Dyer and S Shoptaw and TE Guadamuz and M Plankey and U Kao and D Ostrow and JS Chmiel and A Herrick and R Stall}, title = {Application of syndemic theory to black men who have sex with men in the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study}, journal = {Journal of Urban Health}, pages = {697 -- 708}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18856/}, abstract = {This study analyzed data from a large prospective epidemiologic cohort study among men who have sex with men (MSM), the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study, to assess syndemic relationships among Black MSM in the cohort (N=301). We hypothesized that multiple interconnections among psychosocial health conditions would be found among these men, defining syndemic conditions. Constituents of syndemic conditions measured included reported depression symptoms, sexual compulsiveness, substance use, intimate partner violence (IPV), and stress. We found significant evidence of syndemics among these Black men: depression symptoms were independently associated with sexual compulsiveness (odds ratios [OR]: 1.88, 95\% CI=1.1, 3.3) and stress (OR: 2.67, 95\% CI=1.5, 4.7); sexual compulsiveness was independently associated with stress (OR: 2.04, 95\% CI=1.2, 3.5); substance misuse was independently associated with IPV (OR: 2.57, 95\% CI=1.4, 4.8); stress independently was associated with depression symptoms (OR: 2.67, 95\% CI=1.5, 4.7), sexual compulsiveness (OR: 2.04, 95\% CI=1.2, 3.5) and IPV (OR: 2.84, 95\% CI=1.6, 4.9). Moreover,men who reported higher numbers of syndemic constituents (three or more conditions) reportedly engaged in more unprotected anal intercourse compared to men who had two or fewer health conditions (OR: 3.46, 95\% CI=1.4-8.3). Findings support the concept of syndemics in Black MSM and suggest that syndemic theory may help explain complexities that sustain HIV-related sexual transmission behaviors in this group. {\copyright} 2012 The New York Academy of Medicine.} } @article{pittir38891, volume = {2012}, month = {July}, author = {Wolfgang Ecke and Kevin Chen and Jinsong Leng}, title = {Fiber Optic Sensors}, publisher = {Hindawi Limited}, journal = {Journal of Sensors}, pages = {1--1}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/38891/} } @article{pittir16053, volume = {7}, number = {9}, month = {September}, title = {The Epithelial Sodium Channel (ENaC) Establishes a Trafficking Vesicle Pool Responsible for Its Regulation}, author = {RS Edinger and CA Bertrand and C Rondandino and GA Apodaca and JP Johnson and MB Butterworth}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16053/}, abstract = {The epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) is the rate-limiting step for sodium reabsorption across tight epithelia. Cyclic-AMP (cAMP) stimulation promotes ENaC trafficking to the apical surface to increase channel number and transcellular Na+ transport. Removal of corticosteroid supplementation in a cultured cortical collecting duct cell line reduced ENaC expression. Concurrently, the number of vesicles trafficked in response to cAMP stimulation, as measured by a change in membrane capacitance, also decreased. Stimulation with aldosterone restored both the basal and cAMP-stimulated ENaC activity and increased the number of exocytosed vesicles. Knocking down ENaC directly decreased both the cAMP-stimulated short-circuit current and capacitance response in the presence of aldosterone. However, constitutive apical recycling of the Immunoglobulin A receptor was unaffected by alterations in ENaC expression or trafficking. Fischer Rat Thyroid cells, transfected with {\ensuremath{\alpha}},{\ensuremath{\beta}},{\ensuremath{\gamma}}-mENaC had a significantly greater membrane capacitance response to cAMP stimulation compared to non-ENaC controls. Finally, immunofluorescent labeling and quantitation revealed a smaller number of vesicles in cells where ENaC expression was reduced. These findings indicate that ENaC is not a passive passenger in regulated epithelial vesicle trafficking, but plays a role in establishing and maintaining the pool of vesicles that respond to cAMP stimulation. {\copyright} 2012 Edinger et al.} } @article{pittir17860, volume = {13}, number = {1}, author = {Ashley W Edwards}, title = {There?s no business like the state film tax incentive business: an analysis of Pennsylvania?s film production tax credit program}, publisher = {University Library System, University of Pittsburgh}, journal = {Pittsburgh Journal of Technology law and Policy}, pages = {1 -- 12}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17860/}, abstract = {This article will provide an overview of the Pennsylvania film tax credit program and question whether the perceived benefits of film tax credits are in fact a reality, and whether the legislature should continue to support the program.} } @article{pittir29962, volume = {13}, month = {February}, title = {Gastrin-releasing peptide receptor expression in non-cancerous bronchial epithelia is associated with lung cancer: A case-control study}, author = {AM Egloff and A Gaither Davis and Y Shuai and S Land and JM Pilewski and JD Luketich and R Landreneau and YE Miller and JR Grandis and JM Siegfried}, year = {2012}, journal = {Respiratory Research}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29962/}, abstract = {Background: Normal bronchial tissue expression of GRPR, which encodes the gastrin-releasing peptide receptor, has been previously reported by us to be associated with lung cancer risk in 78 subjects, especially in females. We sought to define the contribution of GRPR expression in bronchial epithelia to lung cancer risk in a larger case-control study where adjustments could be made for tobacco exposure and sex.Methods: We evaluated GRPR mRNA levels in histologically normal bronchial epithelial cells from 224 lung cancer patients and 107 surgical cancer-free controls. Associations with lung cancer were tested using logistic regression models.Results: Bronchial GRPR expression was significantly associated with lung cancer (OR = 4.76; 95\% CI = 2.32-9.77) in a multivariable logistic regression (MLR) model adjusted for age, sex, smoking status and pulmonary function. MLR analysis stratified by smoking status indicated that ORs were higher in never and former smokers (OR = 7.74; 95\% CI = 2.96-20.25) compared to active smokers (OR = 1.69; 95\% CI = 0.46-6.33). GRPR expression did not differ by subject sex, and lung cancer risk associated with GRPR expression was not modified by sex.Conclusions: GRPR expression in non-cancerous bronchial epithelium was significantly associated with the presence of lung cancer in never and former smokers. The association in never and former smokers was found in males and females. Association with lung cancer did not differ by sex in any smoking group. {\copyright} 2012 Egloff et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir14014, volume = {7}, number = {1}, month = {January}, title = {Genetically-engineered pig-to-baboon liver xenotransplantation: Histopathology of xenografts and native organs}, author = {B Ekser and E Klein and J He and DB Stolz and GJ Echeverri and C Long and CC Lin and M Ezzelarab and H Hara and M Veroux and D Ayares and DKC Cooper and B Gridelli}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14014/}, abstract = {Orthotopic liver transplantation was carried out in baboons using wild-type (WT, n = 1) or genetically-engineered pigs ({\ensuremath{\alpha}}1,3-galactosyltransferase gene-knockout, GTKO), n = 1; GTKO pigs transgenic for human CD46, n = 7) and a clinically-acceptable immunosuppressive regimen. Biopsies were obtained from the WT pig liver pre-Tx and at 30 min, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 h post-transplantation. Biopsies of genetically-engineered livers were obtained pre-Tx, 2 h after reperfusion and at necropsy (4-7 days after transplantation). Tissues were examined by light, confocal, and electron microscopy. All major native organs were also examined. The WT pig liver underwent hyperacute rejection. After genetically-engineered pig liver transplantation, hyperacute rejection did not occur. Survival was limited to 4-7 days due to repeated spontaneous bleeding in the liver and native organs (as a result of profound thrombocytopenia) which necessitated euthanasia. At 2 h, graft histology was largely normal. At necropsy, genetically-engineered pig livers showed hemorrhagic necrosis, platelet aggregation, platelet-fibrin thrombi, monocyte/macrophage margination mainly in liver sinusoids, and vascular endothelial cell hypertrophy, confirmed by confocal and electron microscopy. Immunohistochemistry showed minimal deposition of IgM, and almost absence of IgG, C3, C4d, C5b-9, and of a cellular infiltrate, suggesting that neither antibody- nor cell-mediated rejection played a major role. {\copyright} 2012 Ekser et al.} } @unpublished{pittir10487, month = {January}, title = {THE INTERSECTION OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, SELF-REGULATION AND ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT: IMPLICATIONS FOR EDUCATIONAL SUCCESS}, author = {Nermeen El Nokali}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Two studies examining the relations among physical activity, self-regulation and achievement in early and middle childhood.}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10487/}, abstract = {In recent years young children have concurrently experienced startling rises in their rates of obesity and stark reductions in their opportunities for physical activity. These trends have potentially serious implications for young children?s school performance. However, much of the current physical activity research is concerned with health-related outcomes and the prediction of physical activity. Less work has examined the influence of activity on other domains of child development, such as academic and social skills. The current dissertation is comprised of two studies examining opportunities for and levels of physical activity in two distinct developmental periods (preschool and elementary school) and elucidating associations of physical activity with children?s self-regulation and achievement. Examining two independent samples facilitated comparisons of physical activity characteristics and associations across age groups, school settings and demographic contexts. The first study consisted of a within-group analysis of a primarily low-income minority subsample of 4 and 5 year-old preschoolers (N = 104) drawn from the Pitt School Readiness Study, a study of preschoolers from the metropolitan Pittsburgh area. Results from this examination suggest that, although children?s moderate to vigorous activity was not related to self-regulation or achievement, opportunities for physical activity seemed important. Specifically, more time in free play predicted worse attention, and more time in recess predicted more externalizing behavior, less self-control, and worse math achievement. In contrast, more physical education time predicted better reading and math skills. The second study consisted of analyses on a large, economically and ethnically diverse sample of third and fifth graders (N = 993) and a low income subsample (n = 297). Across these samples, more physical education emerged as a positive predictor of self-control but more recess time was negatively associated with math achievement. Accelerometry measured physical activity was not predictive across outcomes. Finally, post-hoc examinations revealed that attention, self-control, and externalizing behaviors acted as possible agents of indirect associations between opportunities for physical activity and achievement. Overall, findings across both studies suggest that children benefit most from physical activity that is structured and regularly scheduled within school settings. Furthermore, large quantities of unstructured activity seemed detrimental for self-regulation and achievement. } } @article{pittir29847, volume = {13}, number = {1}, month = {August}, title = {Implantation of undifferentiated and pre-differentiated human neural stem cells in the R6/2 transgenic mouse model of Huntington's disease}, author = {G El-Akabawy and I Rattray and SM Johansson and R Gale and G Bates and M Modo}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Neuroscience}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29847/}, abstract = {Background: Cell therapy is a potential therapeutic approach for several neurodegenetative disease, including Huntington Disease (HD). To evaluate the putative efficacy of cell therapy in HD, most studies have used excitotoxic animal models with only a few studies having been conducted in genetic animal models. Genetically modified animals should provide a more accurate representation of human HD, as they emulate the genetic basis of its etiology.Results: In this study, we aimed to assess the therapeutic potential of a human striatal neural stem cell line (STROC05) implanted in the R6/2 transgenic mouse model of HD. As DARPP-32 GABAergic output neurons are predominately lost in HD, STROC05 cells were also pre-differentiated using purmorphamine, a hedgehog agonist, to yield a greater number of DARPP-32 cells. A bilateral injection of 4.5x105 cells of either undifferentiated or pre-differentiated DARPP-32 cells, however, did not affect outcome compared to a vehicle control injection. Both survival and neuronal differentiation remained poor with a mean of only 161 and 81 cells surviving in the undifferentiated and differentiated conditions respectively. Only a few cells expressed the neuronal marker Fox3.Conclusions: Although the rapid brain atrophy and short life-span of the R6/2 model constitute adverse conditions to detect potentially delayed treatment effects, significant technical hurdles, such as poor cell survival and differentiation, were also sub-optimal. Further consideration of these aspects is therefore needed in more enduring transgenic HD models to provide a definite assessment of this cell line's therapeutic relevance. However, a combination of treatments is likely needed to affect outcome in transgenic models of HD. {\copyright} 2012 El Akabawy et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir11937, month = {June}, title = {Beyond mom: promoting a public health perspective on meeting the needs of "neglected" children}, author = {Thistle Elias}, year = {2012}, keywords = {child neglect, child abuse, child protective services, maltreatment, parent perspectives, child welfare}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11937/}, abstract = {The primary goals of this dissertation research were to explore the treatment of child neglect in current literature, and the perspectives of parents, living at and below poverty level, on the challenges of, and supports for, meeting the needs of children. A total of fifty-five parents from Early Head Start, Head Start and Childcare Partners in Pittsburgh, PA participated in six focus groups, discussing their perspectives, including on local Child Protective Services. The participants were recruited by Early Head Start and Head Start coordinators, and included fifteen men. This dissertation is organized around the presentation of three manuscripts. The first manuscript presents a systematic review of the literature between 2000-2011 on interventions addressing child neglect. The second manuscript presents parental perspectives on the challenges to, and supports for, meeting the needs of children. Parents shared challenges within the home and outside of the home that increased the difficulty of meeting the needs of children, and the few supports available to assist. Research in the third manuscript reveals parental perspectives of Child Protective Services, indicating further challenges in creating helping partnerships for the benefit of families and their children. This research has public health significance because there is only a relatively small body of literature exploring child neglect rather than abuse, although neglect is of greater prevalence, may have a greater impact on child development into adulthood, and arguably is largely preventable. This research also incorporates parental perspectives - including those of fathers - rarely included in child welfare literature, and a socioecological perspective to explore factors that impact child meeting the needs of children. Based on findings from this research, possibilities for future research, policy and program development are suggested, in order to prevent child neglect. } } @unpublished{pittir13022, month = {September}, title = {PERFORMANCE BASED DESIGN OF COUPLED WALL STRUCTURES}, author = {Abdelatee Eljadei}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Coupled Walls Coupling Beams Performance Based Design Performance Objective Evolution Process }, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13022/}, abstract = {Coupled wall structures are outstanding lateral load resisting systems that not only reduce the deformation demands on the building, but also distribute the inelastic deformation both vertically and in plan, between the coupling beams and the wall piers. Coupled core walls (CCW?s) result from the need to provide openings in elevator or stairwell shafts and often take C, L or H shapes. They provide inherent strength and stiffness, and in many cases they result in a compact plan, which results in more available rentable space on a floor plate. In addition, coupled core walls result in a relatively force-hardened and fire resistant structural system. The research in this work considered a prototype 12-story reinforced concrete coupled core wall (CCW) building located in Seattle, Washington. Five CCW prototype structures, having varying degrees of coupling and the same wall piers were designed allowing the study of the effects of decayed coupling action to be carried out. Elastic analyses using the equivalent lateral force (ELF) procedure and the continuous medium method (CMM) were utilized to establish initial proportions for the CCW system, and to determine the design forces and moments. Nonlinear static and dynamic analyses were conducted to investigate the CCW structural behavior, adequacy of the design, and the evolution of the structural form from CCW system to a collection of linked wall piers (LWP). An additional unique aspect of this work was that the wall piers in the CCW were significantly different in terms of their dynamic and geometric properties: the moments of inertia of the two wall piers differed by almost an order of magnitude. The results of this study indicate that the dual systems, consisting of reinforced concrete wall piers and steel coupling beams, performed very well and as what would be expected. The dual system provided superior lateral stiffness as a CCW in the elastic range, and maintained a good stiffness during the evolution toward a collection of linked wall piers (LWP). When the CCW structure (dual system) was subjected to lateral demand, the system first resisted the lateral loads by a combination of actions: frame action generated by shear in the coupling beams and flexural behavior of the individual wall piers. During the evolution process, the frame action degraded as the steel coupling beams yielded and formed hinges at their ends and the moment resistance was redistributed to the walls piers. } } @unpublished{pittir12152, month = {June}, title = {Poetic Inquiry}, author = {Carolyn Elliott}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Emerson, Heidegger, poetry, poetic inquiry, Jane Hirshfield, soul, Geist, transcendentalism, romanticism, pedagogy, classroom, writing, Kant}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12152/}, abstract = {Poetic inquiry is name for a mode of thought and discovery that seeks to reveal and communicate truths via intuitive contemplation and creative expression. This intuitive / creative mode of knowledge production and way of being in the world was strongly advocated by diverse and important thinkers in the history of criticism and philosophy, including Ralph Waldo Emerson (who called it ?American scholarship?) and Martin Heidegger. The process can be broken down into steps and taught to undergraduates via specific exercises of reading, writing, and questioning. When taught, it opens up complex fields of poetic thought and exploration for students. The fruit of poetic inquiry, as discussed by poets and philosophers of literature is understood to be symbols or images that embody a mysterious, yet evident quality that both Kant and Emerson referred to as ?soul.? Poetic inquiry is a potentially revitalizing and galvanizing mode of thought for humanistic study and teaching, making available means of engaging with and producing texts that are both very fresh and steeped in poetic tradition. It provides a contemplative alternative to the highly problematic paradigm of objectivist scholarship that grew out of the worldview of 19th century reductive materialism and presently dominates the humanities.} } @article{pittir14160, volume = {7}, number = {3}, month = {March}, title = {A cell permeable peptide inhibitor of NFAT inhibits macrophage cytokine expression and ameliorates experimental colitis}, author = {HZ Elloumi and N Maharshak and KN Rao and T Kobayashi and HS Ryu and M M{\"u}hlbauer and F Li and C Jobin and SE Plevy}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14160/}, abstract = {Nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) plays a critical role in the development and function of immune and non-immune cells. Although NFAT is a central transcriptional regulator of T cell cytokines, its role in macrophage specific gene expression is less defined. Previous work from our group demonstrated that NFAT regulates Il12b gene expression in macrophages. Here, we further investigate NFAT function in murine macrophages and determined the effects of a cell permeable NFAT inhibitor peptide 11R-VIVIT on experimental colitis in mice. Treatment of bone marrow derived macrophages (BMDMs) with tacrolimus or 11R-VIVIT significantly inhibited LPS and LPS plus IFN-{\ensuremath{\gamma}} induced IL-12 p40 mRNA and protein expression. IL-12 p70 and IL-23 secretion were also decreased. NFAT nuclear translocation and binding to the IL-12 p40 promoter was reduced by NFAT inhibition. Experiments in BMDMs from IL-10 deficient (Il10 -/-) mice demonstrate that inhibition of IL-12 expression by 11R-VIVIT was independent of IL-10 expression. To test its therapeutic potential, 11R-VIVIT was administered systemically to Il10 -/- mice with piroxicam-induced colitis. 11R-VIVIT treated mice demonstrated significant improvement in colitis compared to mice treated with an inactive peptide. Moreover, decreased spontaneous secretion of IL-12 p40 and TNF in supernatants from colon explant cultures was demonstrated. In summary, NFAT, widely recognized for its role in T cell biology, also regulates important innate inflammatory pathways in macrophages. Selective blocking of NFAT via a cell permeable inhibitory peptide is a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases. {\copyright} 2012 Elloumi et al.} } @techreport{pittir33921, month = {December}, author = {Joseph P Elm}, address = {Pittsburgh, PA USA}, title = {The Business Case for Systems Engineering Study: Assessing Project Performance from Sparse Data}, type = {Technical Report}, publisher = {Carnegie Mellon University}, year = {2012}, institution = {University of Pittsburgh}, pages = {1 -- 31}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/33921/}, abstract = {This report describes the data collection and analysis process used to support the assessment of project performance for the systems engineering (SE) effectiveness study being conducted by the Software Engineering Institute (SEI), the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA) Systems Engineering Division, and the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) Aerospace and Electronic Systems Society. This study seeks to identify relationships between the application of specific systems engineering practices on development projects, and the performance of those projects, as measured by their satisfaction of budget, schedule, and technical requirements.} } @techreport{pittir33920, month = {November}, author = {Joseph P Elm and Dennis Goldenson}, address = {Pittsburgh, PA USA}, title = {The Business Case for Systems Engineering Study: Detailed Response Data}, type = {Technical Report}, publisher = {Carnegie Mellon University}, year = {2012}, institution = {University of Pittsburgh}, pages = {1 -- 101}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/33920/}, abstract = {This report contains detailed response data from The Effectiveness of Systems Engineering: A Survey. The survey had the goal of quantifying the connection between the application of systems engineering (SE) best practices to projects and programs and the performance of those projects and programs. The survey population consisted of projects and programs executed by system developers reached through the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA) Systems Engineering Division, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Aerospace and Electronic Systems Society, and the International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE). Analysis of survey responses revealed strong statistical relationships between project performance and several categories of SE best practices. The survey results show notable differences in the relationship between SE best practices and performance between more challenging and less challenging projects. The statistical relationship with project performance is quite strong for survey data of this kind when both SE capability and project challenge are considered together.} } @techreport{pittir33922, month = {December}, author = {Joseph P Elm and Dennis Goldenson}, address = {Pittsburgh, PA USA}, title = {The Business Case for Systems Engineering Study: Results of the Systems Engineering Effectiveness Survey}, type = {Technical Report}, publisher = {Carnegie Mellon University}, year = {2012}, institution = {University of Pittsburgh}, pages = {1 -- 154}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/33922/}, abstract = {This report summarizes the results of a survey that had the goal of quantifying the connection between the application of systems engineering (SE) best practices to projects and programs and the performance of those projects and programs. The survey population consisted of projects and programs executed by system developers reached through the National Defense Industrial Association Systems Engineering Division (NDIA-SED), the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Aerospace and Electronic Systems Society (IEEE-AESS), and the International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE). Analysis of survey responses revealed strong statistical relationships between project performance and several categories of specific SE best practices. The survey results show notable differences in the relationship between SE best practices and performance between more challenging and less challenging projects. The statistical relationship with project performance is quite strong for survey data of this kind when both SE capability and project challenge are considered together.} } @unpublished{pittir6191, month = {January}, title = {Evolvability in a variable world: genetic architecture in Arabidopsis thaliana and its implications for adaptation}, author = {Tarek Elnaccash}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Quantitative genetics, line cross analysis, QTL mapping, epistasis, phenotypic plasticity, G-matrix, genetic correlations}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/6191/}, abstract = {Evolvability, the ability of a population to adapt to its environment, is critically affected by the genetic architecture of key traits which are further affected by the environmental context. Modern approaches to quantifying genetic architecture at several scales of biological organization allow elucidation of constraints and accelerants to evolutionary change. In chapter one, I describe a novel approach to quantifying genetic architecture that combines recombinant inbred lines (RIL) with line cross analysis. By defining genetic effects relative to an F2 population and incorporating RIL (which are available for many model species), the sampling variance of several nonadditive genetic effect estimates is greatly reduced. The RIL population can be simultaneously used for quantitative trait locus (QTL) identification, thus uncovering the effects of specific loci or genomic regions as elements of genetic architecture. In chapter two, I investigate constraints to evolvability in a set of Arabidopsis thaliana RIL populations grown under four levels of nitrogen (N) availability ranging from saturating to stressfully low N-supply rates. I show that changes in N-availability can alter genetic covariances, QTL location and effect magnitude, principle component (PC) structure, and the constraint due to the mismatch between the axes of multivariate genetic variation (particularly PC1 or g-max) and the direction of evolutionary change favored by selection. In chapter three, I show that the G-matrix structures of Arabidopsis RIL populations in different N-environments possess patterns of trait associations different enough to alter simulated evolutionary trajectories. I discuss the role of genetic covariances and main-effect QTL in determining the different adaptive trajectories. In chapter four, I report on an extensive QTL mapping study using A. thaliana RIL to determine the genetic basis of plastic responses to shifts in the N-environments as well as the role of epistasis in quantitative trait architecture. Exhaustive searches for QTL x QTL interactions at 1cM intervals for 78 trait-environment combinations revealed the presence of several epistatic QTL with no main effect and resolved several seemingly pleiotropic QTL in tightly liked interacting loci. The implications of these patterns of genetic architecture are discussed in the concluding chapter.} } @unpublished{pittir14074, month = {September}, title = {Inference for Right Censored, and Right Censored Length Biased Data Through Inverse Weighting}, author = {Chetachi Emeremni}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Analysis of variance, Survival Analysis, Censoring, Inverse probability of censoring weighting, Length bias, Inverse probability weighting, Kaplan-Meier, Proportional hazard, Accelerated failure time}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14074/}, abstract = {In many medical studies, the outcome of interest may be the time from a starting point to a predefined specific event. A key feature of these data is that the complete event times may not be completely known for some subjects. When this occurs, the survival times are said to be censored. When observations are right censored, all that is known for such individuals is that their event time is greater than some given value. Analysis of variance has been one of the most powerful statistical tools for comparing mean continuous response across multiple groups. Use of classical ANOVA in time-to-event data is problematic because of the right censored nature of survival times. In this dissertation, we propose a weighted analysis of variance approach to comparing mean continuous response between groups when the outcome is subject to right censoring. The method weights each observation by the inverse of the probability of being censored. We show that classical ANOVA methods such as decomposition of sums of squares and tests of contrasts follow in the weighted ANOVA setting. Simulation results show that the weighted ANOVA could be a comparable alternative to other methods of analyzing survival data. We apply our methods to a dataset from the North Central Cancer Treatment Group and another from the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group. Length-Biased sampling is statistical artifact that occurs in survival analysis when the probability of an observation being included in the sample is proportional to a particular characteristic of that observation. When the length-biased data is subject to right censoring, the inference is biased if these key features of the data are not accounted for in the analysis. In this dissertation, we propose an estimating equation approach to eliminate the bias introduced by censoring and the unequal probability of inclusion using inverse weighting. Simulation results show that the estimator is a simple and effective method of analyzing these types of survival data. We apply our methods to the Channing House data. The mean survival time is often used as a measure of effectiveness in screening and other public health programs. When the data are right censored and/or length-biased, the mean survival time is a biased estimator of the population mean. This work is of important public health significance because it provides an effective method of comparing health populations using the mean survival time as the measure of effectiveness. } } @article{pittir15586, volume = {7}, number = {7}, month = {July}, title = {Stimulation of immature lung macrophages with intranasal interferon gamma in a novel neonatal mouse model of respiratory syncytial virus infection}, author = {KM Empey and JG Orend and RS Peebles and L Ega{\~n}a and KA Norris and TD Oury and JK Kolls}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15586/}, abstract = {Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the leading cause of bronchiolitis and viral death in infants. Reduced CD8 T-cells and negligible interferon gamma (IFN{\ensuremath{\gamma}}) in the airway are associated with severe infant RSV disease, yet there is an abundance of alveolar macrophages (AM) and neutrophils. However, it is unclear, based on our current understanding of macrophage functional heterogeneity, if immature AM improve viral clearance or contribute to inflammation and airway obstruction in the IFN{\ensuremath{\gamma}}-deficient neonatal lung environment. The aim of the current study was to define the age-dependent AM phenotype during neonatal RSV infection and investigate their differentiation to classically activated macrophages (CAM) using i.n. IFN{\ensuremath{\gamma}} in the context of improving viral clearance. Neonatal and adult BALB/cJ mice were infected with 1{$\times$}106 plaque forming units (PFU)/gram (g) RSV line 19 and their AM responses compared. Adult mice showed a rapid and robust CAM response, indicated by increases in major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC II), CD86, CCR7, and a reduction in mannose receptor (MR). Neonatal mice showed a delayed and reduced CAM response, likely due to undetectable IFN{\ensuremath{\gamma}} production. Intranasal (i.n.) treatment with recombinant mouse IFN{\ensuremath{\gamma}} (rIFN{\ensuremath{\gamma}}) increased the expression of CAM markers on neonatal AM, reduced viral lung titers, and improved weight gain compared to untreated controls with no detectable increase in CD4 or CD8 T-cell infiltration. In vitro infection of J774A.1 macrophages with RSV induced an alternatively activated macrophage (AAM) phenotype however, when macrophages were first primed with IFN{\ensuremath{\gamma}}, a CAM phenotype was induced and RSV spread to adjacent Hep-2 cells was reduced. These studies demonstrate that the neonatal AM response to RSV infection is abundant and immature, but can be exogenously stimulated to express the antimicrobial phenotype, CAM, with i.n. rIFN{\ensuremath{\gamma}}. {\copyright} 2012 Empey et al.} } @incollection{pittir24655, month = {January}, title = {Toward a containment strategy for smallpox bioterror: An individual-based computational approach}, author = {JM Epstein and DAT Cummings and S Chakravarty and RM Singha and DS Burke}, year = {2012}, pages = {277 -- 306}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/24655/} } @article{pittir18649, volume = {18}, number = {1}, month = {February}, author = {KI Erickson and DL Miller and KA Roecklein}, title = {The aging hippocampus: Interactions between exercise, depression, and BDNF}, journal = {Neuroscientist}, pages = {82 -- 97}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18649/}, abstract = {Late adulthood is associated with increased hippocampal atrophy and dysfunction. Although there are multiple paths by which hippocampal deterioration occurs in late life, the authors discuss the evidence that a single nucleotide polymorphism in the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene and age-related changes in BDNF protein or receptor expression contribute to hippocampal atrophy. The authors conclude that few studies have tested whether BDNF mediates age-related hippocampal atrophy and memory impairment. However, there is strong evidence that decreased BDNF is associated with age-related hippocampal dysfunction, memory impairment, and increased risk for depression, whereas increasing BDNF by aerobic exercise appears to ameliorate hippocampal atrophy, improve memory function, and reduce depression. Importantly, the most consistent associations between BDNF and hippocampal dysfunction have emerged from research on BDNF protein expression in rodents and serum and plasma concentrations of BDNF in humans. Current research suggests that the BDNF val66met polymorphism may be only weakly associated with hippocampal atrophy in late adulthood. These conclusions are interpreted in relation to age-related memory impairment and preventions for hippocampal atrophy. {\copyright} SAGE Publications 2012.} } @unpublished{pittir10557, month = {February}, title = {ELICITING PATIENT PREFERENCES AND PLACING EXPEDITED ORGANS}, author = {Zeynep Erkin}, year = {2012}, keywords = {expedited organ placement, Markov Decision Process, Least Square Policy Iteration, health care, inverse optimization, quality-adjusted life years.}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10557/}, abstract = {Liver transplantation plays a crucial role in saving lives when no other alternatives exist. Each year approximately 5,500 liver transplants are performed in the US. However, annually still 2,000 lives are lost due to lack of livers. Much effort has been spent on improving the organ allocation system. In this dissertation, we focus on patient preference elicitation which is an essential component of medical decision models and expedited organ placement which is relatively unexplored component of the organ allocation system. When livers become available, they are offered to patients according to an order (match list) specified by a set of rules. Each patient can accept/reject the offer. Other researchers have considered this accept/decline decision. Estimating patient preferences over health states is an important component of these decision making models. Direct approaches, which involve asking patients abstract uestions, have significant drawbacks. We propose a new approach that infers patient preferences based on observed decisions via inverse optimization techniques. We illustrate our method on the timing of a living-donor liver transplant. If it appears that the standard allocation procedure will not result in a match before the organ becomes nonviable, the liver?s placement can be expedited, meaning that it is offered to a transplant center instead of an individual patient. We study the subsequent decision problem faced by a transplant center, namely which, if any, of its patients should receive the organ independent of their positions on the match list. We develop a simulation model and compare different policies for expedited liver placement. Our study indicates that a policy which gives higher priorities to patients whose likelihood of death is higher performs the best based on several metrics. We also formulate the transplant center?s decision problems as an average reward Markov Decision Process (MDP). Due to the complexity of the model, traditional methods used to solve MDP problems cannot be utilized for our model. Thus, we approximate the solution via Least Square Policy Iteration (LSPI) method. Despite the extensive search on basis functions, the LSPI method yields promising, yet not better outcomes than the policies found to be the best via simulation.} } @article{pittir24112, volume = {44}, number = {5}, month = {May}, author = {K Estrada and U Styrkarsdottir and E Evangelou and YH Hsu and EL Duncan and EE Ntzani and L Oei and OME Albagha and N Amin and JP Kemp and DL Koller and G Li and CT Liu and RL Minster and A Moayyeri and L Vandenput and D Willner and SM Xiao and LM Yerges-Armstrong and HF Zheng and N Alonso and J Eriksson and CM Kammerer and SK Kaptoge and PJ Leo and G Thorleifsson and SG Wilson and JF Wilson and V Aalto and M Alen and AK Aragaki and T Aspelund and JR Center and Z Dailiana and DJ Duggan and M Garcia and N Garcia-Giralt and S Giroux and G Hallmans and LJ Hocking and LB Husted and KA Jameson and R Khusainova and GS Kim and C Kooperberg and T Koromila and M Kruk and M Laaksonen and AZ Lacroix and SH Lee and PC Leung and JR Lewis and L Masi and S Mencej-Bedrac and TV Nguyen and X Nogues and MS Patel and J Prezelj and LM Rose and S Scollen and K Siggeirsdottir and AV Smith and O Svensson and S Trompet and O Trummer and NM Van Schoor and J Woo and K Zhu and S Balcells and ML Brandi and BM Buckley and S Cheng and C Christiansen and C Cooper and G Dedoussis and I Ford and M Frost and D Goltzman and J Gonz{\'a}lez-Mac{\'i}as and M K{\"a}h{\"o}nen and M Karlsson and E Khusnutdinova and JM Koh and P Kollia and BL Langdahl and WD Leslie and P Lips and {\O} Ljunggren and RS Lorenc and J Marc and D Mellstr{\"o}m and B Obermayer-Pietsch and JM Olmos and U Pettersson-Kymmer and DM Reid and JA Riancho and PM Ridker and F Rousseau and PES Lagboom and NLS Tang}, title = {Genome-wide meta-analysis identifies 56 bone mineral density loci and reveals 14 loci associated with risk of fracture}, journal = {Nature Genetics}, pages = {491 -- 501}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/24112/}, abstract = {Bone mineral density (BMD) is the most widely used predictor of fracture risk. We performed the largest meta-analysis to date on lumbar spine and femoral neck BMD, including 17 genome-wide association studies and 32,961 individuals of European and east Asian ancestry. We tested the top BMD-associated markers for replication in 50,933 independent subjects and for association with risk of low-trauma fracture in 31,016 individuals with a history of fracture (cases) and 102,444 controls. We identified 56 loci (32 new) associated with BMD at genome-wide significance (P {\ensuremath{<}} 5 {$\times$} 10 -8). Several of these factors cluster within the RANK-RANKL-OPG, mesenchymal stem cell differentiation, endochondral ossification and Wnt signaling pathways. However, we also discovered loci that were localized to genes not known to have a role in bone biology. Fourteen BMD-associated loci were also associated with fracture risk (P {\ensuremath{<}} 5 {$\times$} 10 -4, Bonferroni corrected), of which six reached P {\ensuremath{<}} 5 {$\times$} 10 -8, including at 18p11.21 (FAM210A), 7q21.3 (SLC25A13), 11q13.2 (LRP5), 4q22.1 (MEPE), 2p16.2 (SPTBN1) and 10q21.1 (DKK1). These findings shed light on the genetic architecture and pathophysiological mechanisms underlying BMD variation and fracture susceptibility. {\copyright} 2012 Nature America, Inc. All rights reserved.} } @article{pittir14015, volume = {8}, number = {1}, month = {January}, title = {Calpains mediate integrin attachment complex maintenance of adult muscle in Caenorhabditis elegans}, author = {T Etheridge and EA Oczypok and S Lehmann and BD Fields and F Shephard and LA Jacobson and NJ Szewczyk}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS Genetics}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14015/}, abstract = {Two components of integrin containing attachment complexes, UNC-97/PINCH and UNC-112/MIG-2/Kindlin-2, were recently identified as negative regulators of muscle protein degradation and as having decreased mRNA levels in response to spaceflight. Integrin complexes transmit force between the inside and outside of muscle cells and signal changes in muscle size in response to force and, perhaps, disuse. We therefore investigated the effects of acute decreases in expression of the genes encoding these multi-protein complexes. We find that in fully developed adult Caenorhabditis elegans muscle, RNAi against genes encoding core, and peripheral, members of these complexes induces protein degradation, myofibrillar and mitochondrial dystrophies, and a movement defect. Genetic disruption of Z-line- or M-line-specific complex members is sufficient to induce these defects. We confirmed that defects occur in temperature-sensitive mutants for two of the genes: unc-52, which encodes the extra-cellular ligand Perlecan, and unc-112, which encodes the intracellular component Kindlin-2. These results demonstrate that integrin containing attachment complexes, as a whole, are required for proper maintenance of adult muscle. These defects, and collapse of arrayed attachment complexes into ball like structures, are blocked when DIM-1 levels are reduced. Degradation is also blocked by RNAi or drugs targeting calpains, implying that disruption of integrin containing complexes results in calpain activation. In wild-type animals, either during development or in adults, RNAi against calpain genes results in integrin muscle attachment disruptions and consequent sub-cellular defects. These results demonstrate that calpains are required for proper assembly and maintenance of integrin attachment complexes. Taken together our data provide in vivo evidence that a calpain-based molecular repair mechanism exists for dealing with attachment complex disruption in adult muscle. Since C. elegans lacks satellite cells, this mechanism is intrinsic to the muscles and raises the question if such a mechanism also exists in higher metazoans. {\copyright} 2012 Etheridge et al.} } @unpublished{pittir11983, month = {May}, title = {Developing a Broadly Reactive HIV Envelope Vaccine}, author = {Hermancia /S Eugene}, year = {2012}, keywords = {centralized HIV vaccine}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11983/}, abstract = {One of the challenges facing HIV vaccine development is the diversity of the envelope protein (Env). Env only vaccines protect against homologous virus infection, but have not protected from heterologous virus infection. In this project, soluble Env trimers were designed and constructed to elicit anti-Env immune responses that recognize contemporary viral isolates. Env sequences isolated from the Americas, Europe, Africa, and Asia were aligned to generate a consensus Env sequence that represents clades A, B, C, E, and group M. These Envs were truncated at the transmembrane domain (Envgp140) and stabilized with a T4 fibronectin domain from bacteriophage. The overall hypothesis is a multi-clade vaccine expressing HIV-1 envelope proteins in their trimeric structure will elicit a broad cross-reactive immune response capable of protecting from heterologous virus challenge. Two vaccine strategies were used: a polyvalent vaccine strategy, using a mixture of equal amounts of consensus Env trimers of clades A, B, C and E (Poly consensus) in equal amounts, was directly compared to a single consensus Env representing the entire group M (Con M). Initial immunogenicity studies conducted in mice showed consensus envelopes to be immunogenic. These studies were followed by immunogenicity and efficacy studies in the rhesus macaque model. The macaques were immunized intramuscularly three times with equal amounts of total protein of either the polyvalent or consensus vaccine in combination with Imject? alum. Both vaccines were immunogenic in monkeys and sera from vaccinated animals detected and neutralized the same number of envelopes from HIV-1 isolates. After challenge with the simian-human immunodeficiency SF162p4 virus, all polyvalent vaccinated animals were infected and two of the four animals vaccinated with Con M Envgp140 showed no evidence of infection. After CD8+ T depletion of the two aviremic animals, virus emerged in one of those animals indicating potential CD8+ T cell viral control. The other animal vaccinated with Con M Envgp140 remained aviremic. The presence of cross-binding antibodies and low neutralizing antibodies elicited by two multi-clade vaccines did not provide protection to all vaccinated animals.} } @unpublished{pittir12021, month = {June}, title = {Assessing the Knowledge and Attitudes of Black/African American Men who have Sex with Men on HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis}, author = {Emerson Evans}, year = {2012}, keywords = {HIV, HIV Prevention, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, Black/African American, MSM, Gay/Bisexual, PrEP}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12021/}, abstract = {Background: African American men who have sex with men (MSM) represent 37\% of the HIV incidence among all MSM and young Black MSM observed a significant increase of 48\% in new infections during 2006-2009. There were 6,500 infections in Black MSM aged 13-29 exceeding the number of infections of White MSM aged 13-29 and 30-39 combined. In 2010, results from the Global iPrEX clinical trial showed 44\% efficacy of oral pre-exposure prophylaxis among MSM. The implementation of PrEP as a HIV prevention tool may have positive implications in reducing the disparity of HIV infection among Black MSM. Methods: Participants were recruited and sampled for an online survey using the social networking sites Facebook and Twitter. Eligibility for participation was contingent upon self-reported response as Black/African American, an MSM, HIV negative or unaware of HIV status, and over 18 years of age. Informed consent was obtained. Behavioral data was collected from participants on sexual behaviors, HIV testing, and self-perceived susceptibility to HIV infection. Participants were asked specifically their knowledge of PrEP and likeliness of using PrEP to reduce risk of HIV infection. Results: The sample pre-eligibility included 178 respondents. 20.5\% (32) respondents reported being HIV positive. After eligibility was determined 99 respondents were included in the analysis. 56.4\% of the sample reported having little or no knowledge of PrEP yet would use PrEP to reduce their risk of HIV infection. Age was the strongest indicator of all the independent variables on PrEP acceptance being statistically significant in all models of the regression analysis. Conclusions: Contrary to the original hypothesis, an inverse relationship between PrEP knowledge and acceptance was ascertained in the current study. Some possible explanations for this interesting finding are that respondents were unaware of the risks and benefits of pre-exposure prophylaxis and were concerned about preventing themselves from contracting HIV. Also if respondents were to use PrEP, it would likely have to be at little or no individual out of pocket costs. There are a number of factors influencing such high acceptance of PrEP among Black MSM and the current study was able to ascertain some of these factors. These findings have public health significance to the current epidemiology of HIV infection in the United States and further prevention efforts. } } @unpublished{pittir13509, month = {September}, title = {What went right in Northern Ireland?: an analysis of mediation effectiveness and the role of the mediator in the Good Friday Agreement of 1998}, author = {Michelle D. Everson}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Belfast Agreement, the Troubles, Progressive Unionist Party, Ulster Unionist Party, Sinn Fein, Labour Coalition, Social Democratic and Labour Party, Democratic Unionist Party, Northern Ireland Women's Coalition, Brooke-Mayhew talks, Sunningdale, the Troubles, loyalist, unionist, nationalist, republican, IRA, Irish Republican Army, external guarantors, ethnoguarantors, agreement design, special envoy, coalition of the center, North-South institutions, tangible issues, intagible issues, Three Strands, consociationalism, power-sharing government, shadow of the future, ripeness theory, precipices and plateaus}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13509/}, abstract = {George Mitchell, largely considered the key architect of the Northern Ireland peace process, has been lauded for his ability to find areas of compromise in a conflict that many deemed intractable and few expected to find lasting resolution until the Good Friday Agreement was signed in Belfast, Northern Ireland, in 1998. His success, where others had failed, therefore leads us to question ?Why?? What conditions were created that convinced paramilitaries to engage politically? What factors influenced entrenched politicians to compromise, after years of flat refusal to do so? Was it Mitchell?s skill as a mediator? Was it the final realization that thousands of civilians had died at the paramilitaries? hands? My research seeks to answer the question of what went right in Northern Ireland, focusing in particular on the period of the 1990s and the interface between the politicians and the paramilitary organizations. Mitchell?s greatest skills as a mediator were his patience and his ability to build trust and relationships on both sides of the divide; however, beyond his personal characteristics, Mitchell represented the sincere interest of the United States, which brought international attention and a sense of pressure to the talks. Additionally, regional factors, such as the changes in government at the national level following elections in both the Republic of Ireland and the United Kingdom, created a more open environment for the negotiations since each government was more amenable to compromise on key issues than its predecessor had been. Therefore George Mitchell found himself in the unique position of addressing a conflict that had reached its stage of ripeness for negotiation and compromise: on the external political level, actors were in place who had both leeway and desire to make lasting changes; internally, paramilitary groups and their associated parties were finally being included in the process; and the simple fact of US involvement had increased momentum moving towards an agreement. Mitchell was able to take advantage of these favorable circumstances and the parties? faith in him and guide the negotiations to a resolution by imposing a deadline when the moment was right.} } @unpublished{pittir11798, month = {May}, title = {COPYRIGHT, FAIR USE, AND THE TEACH ACT: OPINIONS AND PRACTICES OF ACADEMIC LIBRARIES AND LIBRARIANS}, author = {PAMELA FOWLER}, year = {2012}, keywords = {TEACH ACT, ACADEMIC LIBRARIES, COPYRIGHT, FAIR USE, ACADEMIC LIBRARIANS, RESOURCE LICENSING}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11798/}, abstract = {Problem: The law of copyright in the United States represents a balancing of creative and commercial protection for copyright holders against the freedom and needs of others to use copyrighted resources including academic libraries, faculty, and students. Although a significant body of literature exists that describes and analyzes the course and mechanics of copyright through its long and storied history, few researchers have gathered statistics relating to academic librarians? opinions concerning the efficacy of present-day United States copyright laws including the TEACH Act, their understanding of them, and their everyday resource use within the confines of these laws in the area of provision of digital resources. The views and practices of academic librarians are valuable in determining whether the TEACH Act is accomplishing its intended purpose of extending copyright exceptions beyond the classroom to digitally based academic course materials. Methodology: Based in grounded theory, data collection emanated from two sources ? an online survey to all American academic members of the Association of Research Libraries and a content analysis of the websites of twenty-five randomly selected American academic members of the Association of Research Libraries. Summary of findings: Survey results indicate that academic librarians are dissatisfied with current copyright law and the realities of resource licensing. Fifty-four percent of the institutions in which the libraries are situated appear to be using the TEACH Act. Compliance with the Act?s requirements could not be definitively ascertained. The content analysis of websites indicate that a conflicting higher percentage of institutions are using the TEACH Act than what was reported through the survey. These perceived usages, however, could be the result of negligent linking to online information outside of the library?s own institution. Conclusions: Academic institutions are utilizing the benefits of the TEACH Act. Suggestions for statutory revision are made based upon findings made in this study. } } @unpublished{pittir11926, month = {May}, title = {Look before you leap: continuously evolving utility representations and the attraction effect}, author = {Christian Fagan}, year = {2012}, keywords = {attraction effect, similarity hypothesis, preference reversal, cost of thinking, homeomorphism, homotopy }, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11926/}, abstract = {We study a decision-maker who is presented with a menu of three options to consume. The options are such that two of the bundles are extremely similar, though one is demonstrably inferior to the remaining options. We propose and analyze a model in which the decision-maker's preferences change continuously as he is initially presented with information before learning his true preferences. The decision-maker initially exhibits what is known as the "attraction effect," whereby he is influenced by the similarity in his choice set. As time passes the attraction effect diminshes and the decision-maker's decision-making is aligned with the Tversky hypothesis, the antithetical counterpart to the attraction effect. The decision-maker's optimal behavior depends on his patience and capacity for learning in addition to his baseline preferences.} } @unpublished{pittir10882, month = {May}, title = {THE IMPACT OF ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION ON THE DISPLAYED AFFECT OF WHITE INDIVIDUALS ENGAGING IN INTERRACIAL INTERACTIONS}, author = {Catharine Fairbairn}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Intergroup Relations, Prejudice, Alcohol, FACS}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10882/}, abstract = {Evidence from empirical studies using static race cues suggests that alcohol consumption may increase expressions of prejudice. However, these data may not reliably predict the behavior of Whites during interracial interactions since both expressions of stigma and the effects of alcohol intoxication have been shown to vary widely from non-social to social paradigms. The current study aimed to capture in real time the dynamic and evolving processes involved in interracial interactions and examined how these processes are modified by alcohol consumption. I used Paul Ekman?s Facial Action Coding System (FACS) to conduct a micro-analysis of the emotional experience of Whites engaging in a 36-minute interaction with either two other Whites (racially homogeneous groups), or one White and one Black participants (interracial groups). Alcohol moderated the impact of group racial composition on expressions associated with self-awareness but did not moderate other positive or negative affective displays. Results highlight the role of presentational concerns in modern interracial interactions.} } @article{pittir14268, volume = {125}, number = {9}, month = {March}, author = {MS Faith and L Van Horn and LJ Appel and LE Burke and JAS Carson and HA Franch and JM Jakicic and TVE Kral and A Odoms-Young and B Wansink and J Wylie-Rosett}, title = {Evaluating parents and adult caregivers as "agents of change" for treating obese children: Evidence for parent behavior change strategies and research gaps: A scientific statement from the American heart association}, journal = {Circulation}, pages = {1186 -- 1207}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14268/}, abstract = {This scientific statement addresses parents and adult caregivers (PACs) as "agents of change" for obese children, evaluating the strength of evidence that particular parenting strategies can leverage behavior change and reduce positive energy balance in obese youth. The statement has 3 specific aims. The first is to review core behavior change strategies for PACs as used in family-based treatment programs and to provide a resource list. The second is to evaluate the strength of evidence that greater parental " involvement" in treatment is associated with better reductions in child overweight. The third is to identify research gaps and new opportunities for the field. This review yielded limited and inconsistent evidence from randomized controlled clinical trials that greater PAC involvement necessarily is associated with better child outcomes. For example, only 17\% of the intervention studies reported differential improvements in child overweight as a function of parental involvement in treatment. On the other hand, greater parental adherence with core behavior change strategies predicted better child weight outcomes after 2 and 5 years in some studies. Thus, the literature lacks conclusive evidence that one particular parenting strategy or approach causally is superior to others in which children have a greater focus in treatment. A number of research gaps were identified, including the assessment of refined parenting phenotypes, cultural tailoring of interventions, examination of family relationships, and incorporation of new technologies. A conceptual model is proposed to stimulate research identifying the determinants of PAC feeding and physical activity parenting practices, the results of which may inform new treatments. The statement addresses the need for innovative research to advance the scope and potency of PAC treatments for childhood obesity. {\copyright} 2012 American Heart Association, Inc.} } @inproceedings{pittir13109, month = {October}, title = {The impact of social performance visualization on students}, author = {MH Falakmasir and IH Hsiao and L Mazzola and N Grant and P Brusilovsky}, year = {2012}, pages = {565 -- 569}, journal = {Proceedings of the 12th IEEE International Conference on Advanced Learning Technologies, ICALT 2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13109/}, abstract = {Over the last 10 years two major research directions explored the benefits of visualizing student learning progress. One stream of research on learning performance visualization attempts to build a visual presentation of students' learning progress, targeting the needs of instructors and academic advisors. The other stream of research on Open Student Modeling (OSM) attempts to visualize the state of individual student's knowledge and present the visualization directly to the student. The results of the studies in that area show that, presenting students with basic representation of their knowledge will result in facilitating their metacognitive activities and promoting self-reflection and awareness. This paper tries to study the impact of a more sophisticated form of performance visualization on students. We believe that our visualization tool can positively influence students by granting them the opportunity to get a view of their performance in the content of the class progress. Moreover, we tried to boost their motivation by building a positive sense of competition using a representation of average class performance. In this paper we present study comparing two groups of students, one using the visualization and another without visualization. The results of the study shows that: 1) the students are likely to use the social visualization tool during the whole semester to monitor their progress in comparison with their peers; 2) the visualization tool encourages students to use the learning materials in a more continuous manner during the whole semester and 3) students will achieve a higher success rate in answering self-assessment quizzes. {\copyright} 2012 IEEE.} } @unpublished{pittir16461, month = {December}, title = {Intervention To Improve Breastfeeding Indicators in Allegheny County Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Participants}, school = {University of Pittsburgh}, author = {Melissa Fann}, publisher = {University of Pittsburgh}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Peer, Counseling, WIC, Breastfeeding}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16461/}, abstract = {Breastfeeding is the optimal method of infant nutrition. Breastfeeding can provide protection from a number of pediatric conditions. However, breastfeeding initiation and breastfeeding continuation rates are below recommended levels in the United States. Improving breastfeeding rates in the United States could significantly decrease infant morbidity and mortality resulting from a number of these conditions. Thus this issue is relevant to public health practice. Rates are particularly low amongst participants in the Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). This presents a challenge for public health professionals. Proposed is an intervention to increase breastfeeding rates in the Allegheny County, Pennsylvania WIC program by utilizing a breastfeeding peer counseling model and, secondarily, health care provider partnerships to educate participants about the benefits of breastfeeding. The proposed intervention is outlined in two phases along with the proposed budget and evaluation plan. The proposed budget and justification would be suitable for supporting documentation for a Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) grant funding application.} } @unpublished{pittir10780, month = {January}, title = {Shroom2 regulates endothelial morphogenesis and centrosome duplication through the specific sub-cellular recruitment of Rho-kinase.}, author = {Matthew J. Farber}, year = {2012}, note = {This updated ETD contains the proper "Kenneth P. Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences"}, keywords = {Shroom, Shroom2, morphology, Rho-kinase, Rock, angiogenesis, centrosome}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10780/}, abstract = {The ability of epithelial cells to change shape is essential to the patterning of tissues and organs during development of the vertebrate embryo. Epithelial morphogenesis is mediated by the molecular regulation of cytoskeletal dynamics which underlies cellular adhesion, motility, polarity, and proliferation. The Shroom family of proteins regulates epithelial morphogenesis by promoting MyosinII-dependent changes in epithelial morphology through the ability to bind both F-actin and Rho kinase (Rock). Shroom3 is necessary to induce apical constriction of the neural epithelium and is required for proper neural tube closure during development. However, the roles of other family members are unknown. This work seeks to determine the role and mechanism of action for Shroom2 in epithelial cell biology. Through RNAi, the loss of Shroom2 reduces contractility of endothelial cells. Shroom2 physically interacts with Rock and is necessary for its cortical localization. By impeding Rock localization and reducing contractility, Shroom2 knockdown alters cytoskeletal organization, adhesion, and motility which ultimately affects in vitro angiogenesis. During these studies, it also became clear that Shroom2 localizes to the centrosome where it is required to maintain efficient centrosome duplication in a Rock-dependent manner. The results described here expand a role for the Shroom proteins in the sub-cellular localization of Rock which mediates a subset of Rock functions within epithelial cells. } } @unpublished{pittir12881, month = {September}, title = {BIOMECHANCIAL CHARACTERIZATION OF POSTNATAL GROWTH BEHAVIOR IN THE OVINE MAIN PULMONARY ARTERY}, author = {Bahar Fata}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Growth, Pulmonary Artery, Cardiovascular Biomechanics, Tissue Engineering, Collagen, Elastin}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12881/}, abstract = {It has been estimated that worldwide 600,000 babies are born annually with significant congenital heart disease. In children with congenital heart disease, normal growth and hemodynamic function of the pulmonary arteries and aorta become disrupted due to structural heart defects and/or genetic disorders. Congenital heart and related vascular defects cause increased flow and pulmonary pressure leading to unfavorable vascular remodeling that result in pulmonary arterial hypertension. Congenital abnormalities of these arteries often necessitate surgical repair or the use of autologous tissue and synthetic biomaterials as vascular grafts. The optimal vascular replacement should be able to accommodate somatic growth and closely mimic the structure, function and physiologic environment of native vessels. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the development of a living autologous tissue graft that could address the critical need for growing substitutes in the repair of congenital cardiovascular defects. In the current study, the biomechanical characteristics of the native ovine main pulmonary artery during postnatal growth period were delineated to establish the benchmarks for tissue engineering approaches. The local postnatal alterations in the surface geometry of the pulmonary artery based on magnetic resonance images of the endoluminal arterial surface were estimated. The regional growth adaptations of the mechanical behavior and elastin structure were subsequently quantified. The collagen organization and recruitment behavior using a biaxial stretching device combined with multiphoton microscopy were measured. The experimental measurements were finally fit to a structurally-based constitutive model of the arterial wall. The results of this study can also help elucidate the governing mechanisms of normal remodeling and growth process by enhancing our knowledge of alterations in the geometry and structure-mechanics relationship of the pulmonary arterial wall during postnatal maturation. } } @unpublished{pittir11772, month = {May}, title = {CARBON NANOMATERIALS FOR CHEMICAL AND BIOLOGICAL SENSING}, author = {Ian M Feigel}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Nanomaterial, Carbon Nanotubes, Sensor, Chemiresitor, Field-Effect Transistor}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11772/}, abstract = {Carbon nanotubes (CNTs), first discovered in 1991, are cylindrical structures composed of atomically thin sp2 hybridized carbon which can be visualized as a rolled up sheet of graphene. CNTs have excellent mechanical and electronic properties which make them a very promising new material. Typically, CNTs have diameter between one and several nanometers, comparable to the size of individual molecules, and lengths that can exceed several micrometers, which enables integration into microscale electronics. Most interestingly, CNTs electronic properties are very sensitive to changes in their local chemical environment, as all carbon atoms are located on the surface. By placing CNTs between two electrodes, they can function as a resistor or transistor for sensor applications, and through addition functionalization, the CNTs can serve as ultrasensitive, selective devices. Herein, we report the specific functionalization of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) for chemical and biological sensing. First, SWNTs have been decorated with metal oxide nanoparticles and a hydrophilic polymer for the detection of CO2 gas. The interactions of the SWNTs with the functional layers have been characterized in detail. Secondly, oxidized SWNTs functionalized with a pH sensitive polymer have been developed for selective detection of the pH of buffered solutions, with the ability to distinguish between 0.1 pH units. This device was also further functionalized to demonstrate detection of CO2 and H2 gas.} } @unpublished{pittir11794, month = {June}, title = {Beckett and Europe: Poesis, Legibility, History}, author = {Jonathan S. Feinberg}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Beckett, Europe, History, Literature, Translation, Technology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11794/}, abstract = {Samuel Beckett?s works are characterized by a pervasive sense of lateness{--}of having arrived after the peak of European civilization, with no choice but to work with outdated materials{--}that informs the works? challenging formal qualities and defines their historical consciousness with regard to the crisis of Europe in the twentieth century. The mutual and reciprocal articulation of this sense of lateness and the works? radical formal, aesthetic, and even technological experimentation yields an instance of what Edward W. Said has called ?late style:? works characterized by an historical untimeliness that is expressed formally. Close readings of the prose fiction reveal a generative, essayistic literary practice that relentlessly assays habitual or conventional literary forms and consistently refuses closure or culmination as only another example of these conventions. This essayistic procedure and its gesture of refusal{--}the mark of Beckett?s famous ?fidelity to failure?{--}leave traces of the literary forms and conventions that the work has tried on and abandoned as obsolete. Within these traces, an image of Europe emerges{--}in the moment of its obsolescence{--}from the vestiges of forms of intelligibility that no longer communicate or have outlasted their use. ?Europe,? in this reading, does not stand outside the work as the ?context? that renders the work legible to and available for interpretation; rather, it emerges vestigially and in retrospect, as the detritus that the essayistic process of testing and experimentation leaves behind as it searches for new forms of intelligibility that will inaugurate new beginnings. Beckett?s career-long practice of self-translation contributes to this essayistic process by staking out a critical position between languages from which to test the limits and possibilities of each, while his experimentation with new technologies and media in his dramatic works seeks non-literary, non-linguistic poetic means in the wake of literature?s dominance as the bearer of culture.} } @incollection{pittir18811, month = {December}, title = {Collaborative assessment of functional reliability in wireless networks}, author = {Z Feng and K Pelechrinis and S Krishnamurthy and A Swami and F Wu and MP Singh}, year = {2012}, pages = {425 -- 433}, journal = {MASS 2012 - 9th IEEE International Conference on Mobile Ad-Hoc and Sensor Systems}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18811/}, abstract = {Nodes that are part of a multihop wireless network, typically deployed in mission critical settings, are expected to perform specific functions. Establishing a notion of reliability of the nodes with respect to each function (referred to as functional reliability or FR) is essential for efficient operations and management of the network. This is typically assessed based on evidence collected by nodes with regards to other nodes in the network. However, such evidence is often affected by factors such as channel induced effects and interference. In multihop contexts, unreliable intermediary relays may also influence evidence. We design a framework for collaborative assessment of the FR of nodes, with respect to different types of functions; our framework accounts for the above factors that influence evidence collection. Each node (say Chloe) in the network derives the FR of other nodes (say Jack) based on two types of evidence: (i) direct evidence, based on her direct transactions with each such node and (ii) indirect evidence, based on feedback received regarding Jack from others. Our framework is generic and is applicable in a variety of contexts. We also design a module that drastically reduces the overhead incurred in the propagation of indirect evidence at the expense of slightly increased uncertainty in the assessed FR values. We implement our framework on an indoor/outdoor wireless testbed. We show that with our framework, each node is able to determine the FR for every other node in the network with high accuracy. Our indirect evidence propagation module decreases the overhead by 37\% compared to a simple flooding based evidence propagation, while the accuracy of the FR computations is decreased only by 8\%. Finally, we examine the effect of different routing protocols on the accuracy of the assessed values. {\copyright} 2012 IEEE.} } @article{pittir18027, volume = {73}, number = {3}, month = {March}, title = {THE TRANSPARENCY FIX: ADVOCATING LEGAL RIGHTS AND THEIR ALTERNATIVES IN THE PURSUIT OF A VISIBLE STATE}, author = {Mark Fenster}, year = {2012}, journal = {University of Pittsburgh Law Review}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18027/} } @unpublished{pittir6177, month = {February}, title = {IMPACT OF VAGINAL SYNTHETIC PROLAPSE MESHES ON THE MECHANICS OF THE HOST TISSUE RESPONSE}, author = {Andrew / J Feola}, year = {2012}, keywords = {biomechanics, prolapse, synthetic mesh, host response}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/6177/}, abstract = {The vagina helps support the bladder, urethra, uterus, and rectum. A lack of support leads to pelvic organ prolapse, and vaginal delivery is a prevalent risk factor; however, there is little research on vaginal biomechanical properties. Despite numerous complications, clinical practice involves surgical repair with synthetic meshes. Complications can be partially attributed to our lack of knowledge regarding the mesh-tissue complex (MTC) after implantation. However, it is difficult to perform rigorous studies without utilizing animal models. Therefore, we evaluated how parity affected the mechanical properties of vaginal tissue in three animal models: rodent, sheep, and non-human primate (NHP) to compare their mechanically properties to parous women who typically undergo prolapse surgery. Parity negatively impacted the mechanical properties of the vagina in NHP, which were biomechanically similar to parous women, making it a suitable model for studying the effects of mesh implantation. Second, we examined the textile and structural properties of commonly used meshes (Gynemesh, UltraPro, SmartMesh, Novasilk, and Polyform) utilizing uniaxial and ball-burst tests. These meshes had significantly different porosity and structural properties. To investigate the host response, three meshes were implanted into the abdominal wall of the rodent and NHP, and on the vagina in the NHP. The MTC was removed, and the tissue contribution was calculated. We did not observe notable changes in the tissue properties following mesh implantation in the rodent; however, implantation of the stiffest mesh (Gynemesh) in the NHP resulted in an exhibition of a stress-shielding response manifested by inferior biomechanical properties of the abdominal and vaginal tissues. Less stiff meshes (UltraPro and SmartMesh) resulted in preservation of tissue properties. To gain insight into how mesh properties affect the tissue contribution, we began developing a finite element model. Utilizing the co-rotational theory with a fiber-recruitment stress-strain relationship, we could describe the behavior of SmartMesh and UltraPro. While an in-depth characterization of these meshes revealed multiple fiber populations, further development of modeling may be instrumental in closing the current knowledge gap. Ultimately, understanding the mesh-tissue interaction will improve clinical outcomes by identifying mesh properties that are essential for providing structural support while maintaining tissue integrity.} } @incollection{pittir17512, booktitle = {The Oxford Handbook of Philosophy of Cognitive Science}, month = {May}, title = {Culture and Cognition}, author = {DMT Fessler and E Machery}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17512/}, abstract = {The article provides an overview on the approaches used to study the relation between culture and cognition. Psychological universals can be defined as those traits, processes, dispositions, or functions that recur across cultures, with at least a subset of each population exhibiting the trait. The strongest test of the universality of a given psychological trait is to search for it across maximally disparate cultures because traits may recur across cultures due to cultural influences alone. One methodological concern, however, is that whether or not a trait is identified in different cultures will depend in part on how the trait is defined. Some traits may be psychological universals because they are homologies. A trait is generatively entrenched if its development is a necessary condition for the development of other traits. Most modifications of a generatively entrenched trait are selected against because they prevent the development of these other traits. The approximate number sense, evident in cultures as diverse as small-scale hunter-horticulturalist societies and modern, technologically complex societies, is also present in numerous animal species. A number of uniquely human psychological traits are also universal because their development has been canalized during the evolution of human cognition. Natural selection selects against development pathways that rely on specific environmental inputs when these environmental inputs vary, when variation in these environmental inputs cause the development of variable traits, and when there is a single optimally adaptive variant.} } @unpublished{pittir10790, month = {January}, title = {Development of a Luciferase-Based Assay to Screen for Gametocyte-Specific Antimalarial Drugs}, author = {Becita Fields}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Plasmodium, gametocytes, luciferase, antimalarial, pyrimethamine, primaquine, atovaquone, tetracycline, amodiaquine, artesunate, quinine, fatty acids, Plasmodium berghei}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10790/}, abstract = {For centuries, Malaria has continued to be one of the most deadly infectious diseases in the world. Almost all of the current antimalarial drugs target the asexual blood stages of the Plasmodium parasite responsible for the clinical pathology of malaria, but nearly all have no activity against the mature gametocyte or sexual stage that is responsible for the transmission of the parasite through the mosquito vector. Renewed interest in global eradication of malaria has turned some of the focus on blocking transmission. We have developed transgenic Plasmodium berghei that expresses luciferase under the control of gametocyte-specific promoters. Pb920Lux is a transgenic parasite that expresses luciferase in both male and female gametocytes, while Pb610Lux is a transgenic parasite that expresses luciferase in the male gametocyte. Immunofluorescence assay (IFA) shows luciferase is expressed in some parasites and in accordance with a previous study, suggest these may be gametocytes. These transgenic parasites were then used in a luciferase-based drug assay. Seven known antimalarial drugs were used to confirm the validity of the assay. Four of the known drugs had gametocidal activity, while three of the drugs have no gametocidal activity. We first created a dose response using the Pb920Lux and Pb610Lux along with PbGFPLuxcon as our control. From there we calculate the IC50 values of these drugs and compared them to the IC50 values calculated using PbGFPLuxcon (control). As expected, the transgenic parasites showed significant gametocidal activity in the four known drugs and no significant activity in the three non-gametocidal drugs. We confirmed this finding by calculating the percentage of parasites and gametocyte by light microscope and compared these to our findings with the luciferase-based assay. Next we analyzed four unknown drugs and found that they contain no gametocidal activity. The public health importance of developing a luciferase-based assay specific for gametocytes is to provide a simple and efficient method of detecting gametocidal drugs in order to prevent the transmission of malaria.} } @unpublished{pittir10756, month = {January}, title = {Bibles en images: Visual Narrative and Translation in New York Public Library Spencer ms. 22 and Related Manuscripts}, author = {Julia A. Finch}, year = {2012}, keywords = {medieval literacy, visual literacy, medieval France}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10756/}, abstract = {This dissertation examines New York Public Library Spencer ms. 22, a fourteenth-century French Bible en images (narrative picture Bible), and its relationship with the picture Bible of King Sancho VII of Navarre (Amiens, Biblioth{\`e}que municipale ms. 108), completed in the year 1197. Previous scholarship on these manuscripts has described Spencer 22 as a copy of Sancho?s Bible, based on the close similarity of visual narrative content and iconography found in Spencer 22 and its predecessor. The range of aesthetic and linguistic differences between the manuscripts, however, signifies a process more akin to translation, a term that better expresses the relationship between Sancho?s Bible and Spencer 22, as well as the specific needs of its patron, Jeanne II of Navarre. I consider the production of Spencer 22 in three contexts. The first is the patronage of Jeanne II of Navarre prior to and shortly after her coronation as Queen of Navarre in 1329. In preserving the visual narrative content of a known royal manuscript, Spencer 22 is a visual referent to Sancho?s Bible that aligns Jeanne II?s political interests with her Navarrese ancestor to solidify her legitimate claim to the throne. The second context is the translation of the visual narrative between Sancho?s Bible and Spencer 22, with a focus on Spencer 22?s materiality. The stylistic translation of Spencer 22?s images into a format more familiar to a fourteenth-century audience, along with the addition of written text in French, is more than a superficial change, it is a sophisticated re-presentation of the visual narrative of Sancho?s Bible for audiences familiar with the interaction of text and image on the manuscript page in both religious and secular works. Finally, and more broadly, the third context is the reception of biblical visual narrative in fourteenth-century France. As a case study, these manuscripts and the terms visual translation and translatio imaginis (translation of images) can help us to better understand the transfer of text-to-image and image-to-image narrative content and the variations on literacy in fourteenth-century France that supported these conventions for medieval readers. } } @article{pittir29831, volume = {14}, number = {5}, month = {September}, title = {DNA damage as a result of psychological stress: implications for breast cancer}, author = {MS Flint and DH Bovbjerg}, year = {2012}, journal = {Breast Cancer Research}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29831/}, abstract = {Accumulating evidence indicates that psychological stress can have deleterious influences on cancer development and progression, but the mechanisms responsible remain unclear. One possible mechanism is suggested by emerging evidence that DNA damage is increased by exposure to stress and stress hormones (for example, cortisol, catecholamines). Possible molecular mechanisms for such effects were the subject of a recent paper by Hara and colleagues, which suggests that chronic stress, through {\ensuremath{\beta}}-adrenergic stimulation, can induce two synergistic pathways that result in accumulation of DNA damage. Herein, we discuss the potential implications of these findings for breast cancer etiology, progression, and treatment response. {\copyright} 2012 BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir20469, month = {May}, title = {Educate yourself, guv [Letter to the editor]}, author = {Amanda Folk}, year = {2012}, journal = {Pittsburgh Tribune-Review}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20469/} } @unpublished{pittir20533, booktitle = {Phi Kappa Phi Colloquium}, month = {November}, title = {How well are we preparing them? Information literacy skills of first-year library student assistants}, author = {Amanda Folk}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20533/} } @unpublished{pittir20410, booktitle = {American Library Association (ALA) Annual Conference}, month = {June}, title = {Teaching New Dogs Old Tricks: Using Technology to Train and Manage Student Employees}, author = {Amanda Folk and Jenn Grimmett}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20410/}, abstract = {Folk (University of Pittsburgh, Greensburg) and Grimmett (Emmanuel College, Boston) give an overview of the various technologies that they have used to train and manage student employees, including SharePoint, Adobe Captivate, and LibGuides. This presentation was sponsored by the Library Information Technology Association (LITA).} } @inproceedings{pittir22882, month = {January}, title = {Adapting to multiple affective states in spoken dialogue}, author = {K Forbes-Riley and D Litman}, year = {2012}, pages = {217 -- 226}, journal = {SIGDIAL 2012 - 13th Annual Meeting of the Special Interest Group on Discourse and Dialogue, Proceedings of the Conference}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22882/}, abstract = {We evaluate a wizard-of-oz spoken dialoguesystem that adapts to multiple user affectivestates in real-time: user disengagement anduncertainty. We compare this version with theprior version of our system, which only adaptsto user uncertainty. Our analysis investigateshow iteratively adding new affect adaptationto an existing affect-adaptive system impactsglobal and local performance. We find a significantincrease in motivation for users whomost frequently received the disengagementadaptation. Moreover, responding to disengagementbreaks its negative correlations withtask success and user satisfaction, reduces uncertaintylevels, and reduces the likelihood ofcontinued disengagement.} } @incollection{pittir22883, month = {January}, title = {Intrinsic and extrinsic evaluation of an automatic user disengagement detector for an uncertainty-adaptive spoken dialogue system}, author = {K Forbes-Riley and D Litman and H Friedberg and J Drummond}, year = {2012}, pages = {91 -- 102}, journal = {NAACL HLT 2012 - 2012 Conference of the North American Chapter of the Association for Computational Linguistics: Human Language Technologies, Proceedings of the Conference}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22883/}, abstract = {We present a model for detecting user disengagement during spoken dialogue interactions. Intrinsic evaluation of our model (i.e., with respect to a gold standard) yields results on par with prior work. However, since our goal is immediate implementation in a system that already detects and adapts to user uncertainty, we go further than prior work and present an extrinsic evaluation of our model (i.e., with respect to the real-world task). Correlation analyses show crucially that our automatic disengagement labels correlate with system performance in the same way as the gold standard (manual) labels, while regression analyses show that detecting user disengagement adds value over and above detecting only user uncertainty when modeling performance. Our results suggest that automatically detecting and adapting to user disengagement has the potential to significantly improve performance even in the presence of noise, when compared with only adapting to one affective state or ignoring affect entirely.} } @article{pittir22684, volume = {22}, number = {2}, author = {Kate Forbes-Riley and Diane J Litman}, title = {When Does Disengagement Correlate with Performance in Spoken Dialog Computer Tutoring?}, publisher = {IOS Press}, journal = {International Journal of Artificial Intelligence in Education}, pages = {19 -- 42}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22684/}, abstract = {In this paper we investigate how student disengagement relates to two performance metrics in a spoken dialog computer tutoring corpus, both when disengagement is measured through manual annotation by a trained human judge, and also when disengagement is measured through automatic annotation by the system based on a machine learning model. First, we investigate whether manually labeled overall disengagement and six different disengagement types are predictive of learning and user satisfaction in the corpus. Our results show that although students? percentage of overall disengaged turns negatively correlates both with the amount they learn and their user satisfaction, the individual types of disengagement correlate differently: some negatively correlate with learning and user satisfaction, while others don?t correlate with eithermetric at all. Moreover, these relationships change somewhat depending on student prerequisite knowledge level. Furthermore, using multiple disengagement types to predict learning improves predictive power. Overall, these manual label-based results suggest that although adapting to disengagement should improve both student learning and user satisfaction in computer tutoring, maximizing performance requires the system to detect and respond differently based on disengagement type. Next, we present an approach to automatically detecting and responding to user disengagement types based on their differing correlations with correctness. Investigation of ourmachine learningmodel of user disengagement shows that its automatic labels negatively correlate with both performance metrics in the same way as the manual labels. The similarity of the correlations across the manual and automatic labels suggests that the automatic labels are a reasonable substitute for the manual labels. Moreover, the significant negative correlations themselves suggest that redesigning ITSPOKE to automatically detect and respond to disengagement has the potential to remediate disengagement and thereby improve performance, even in the presence of noise introduced by the automatic detection process.} } @article{pittir29888, volume = {10}, number = {1}, month = {December}, author = {Ivan Martinez Forero and Hideho Okada and Suzanne L Topalian and Thomas F Gajewski and Alan J Korman and Ignacio Melero}, title = {Workshop on immunotherapy combinations. Society for immunotherapy of cancer annual meeting Bethesda, November 3, 2011}, publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC}, journal = {Journal of Translational Medicine}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29888/}, abstract = {{\ensuremath{<}}jats:title{\ensuremath{>}}Abstract{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:title{\ensuremath{>}} {\ensuremath{<}}jats:p{\ensuremath{>}}Although recent FDA approvals on ipilimumab and sipuleucel-T represent major milestones, the ultimate success of immunotherapy approaches will likely benefit from appropriate combinations with other immunotherapeutic and/or non-immunotherapeutic approaches. However, implementation of ideal combinations in the clinic may still face formidable challenges in regulatory, drug-availability and intellectual property aspects. The 2011 SITC annual meeting hosted a workshop on combination immunotherapy to discuss: 1) the most promising combinations found in the laboratory; 2) early success of combination immunotherapy in clinical trials; 3) industry perspectives on combination approaches, and 4) relevant regulatory issues. The integrated theme was how to accelerate the implementation of efficacious combined immunotherapies for cancer patients. Rodent animal models are providing many examples of synergistic combinations that typically include more than two agents. However, mouse and human immunology differ in a significant number of mechanisms and hence we might be missing opportunities peculiar to humans. Nonetheless, incisive animal experimentation with deep mechanistic insight remains the best compass that we can use to guide our paths in combinatorial immunotherapy. Combination immunotherapy clinical trials are already in progress and preliminary results are extremely promising. As a key to translate promising combinations into clinic, real and ?perceived? business and regulatory hurdles were debated. A formidable step forward would be to be able to test combinations of investigational agents prior to individual approval. Taking together the FDA and the industrial perspective on combinatorial immunotherapy, the audience was left with the clear message that this is by no means an impossible task. The general perception is that the road ahead of us is full of combination clinical trials which hopefully will bring clinical benefit to our cancer patients at a fast pace.{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:p{\ensuremath{>}}} } @article{pittir15591, volume = {7}, number = {7}, month = {July}, title = {Mouse allergen, lung function, and atopy in Puerto Rican children}, author = {E Forno and MM Cloutier and S Datta and K Paul and J Sylvia and D Calvert and S Thornton-Thompson and DB Wakefield and J Brehm and RG Hamilton and M Alvarez and A Col{\'o}n-Semidey and E Acosta-P{\'e}rez and G Canino and JC Celed{\'o}n}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15591/}, abstract = {Objective: To examine the relation between mouse allergen exposure and asthma in Puerto Rican children. Methods: Mus m 1, Der p 1, Bla g 2, and Fel d 1 allergens were measured in dust samples from homes of Puerto Rican children with (cases) and without (controls) asthma in Hartford, CT (n = 449) and San Juan (SJ), Puerto Rico (n = 678). Linear or logistic regression was used for the multivariate analysis of mouse allergen (Mus m 1) and lung function (FEV1 and FEV1/FVC) and allergy (total IgE and skin test reactivity (STR) to ?1 allergen) measures. Results: Homes in SJ had lower mouse allergen levels than those in Hartford. In multivariate analyses, mouse allergen was associated with higher FEV1 in cases in Hartford (+70.6 ml, 95\% confidence interval (CI) = 8.6-132.7 ml, P = 0.03) and SJ (+45.1 ml, 95\% CI = -0.5 to 90.6 ml, P = 0.05). In multivariate analyses of controls, mouse allergen was inversely associated with STR to ?1 allergen in non-sensitized children (odds ratio [OR] for each log-unit increment in Mus m 1 = 0.7, 95\% CI = 0.5-0.9, P{\ensuremath{<}}0.01). In a multivariate analysis including all children at both study sites, each log-increment in mouse allergen was positively associated with FEV1 (+28.3 ml, 95\% CI = 1.4-55.2 ml, P = 0.04) and inversely associated with STR to ?1 allergen (OR for each log-unit increment in Mus m 1 = 0.8, 95\% CI = 0.6-0.9, P{\ensuremath{<}}0.01). Conclusions: Mouse allergen is associated with a higher FEV1 and lower odds of STR to ?1 allergen in Puerto Rican children. This may be explained by the allergen itself or correlated microbial exposures. {\copyright} 2012 Forno et al.} } @article{pittir15565, volume = {8}, number = {5}, month = {May}, title = {Genome-wide association for abdominal subcutaneous and visceral adipose reveals a novel locus for visceral fat in women}, author = {CS Fox and Y Liu and CC White and M Feitosa and AV Smith and N Heard-Costa and K Lohman and AD Johnson and MC Foster and DM Greenawalt and P Griffin and J Ding and AB Newman and F Tylavsky and I Miljkovic and SB Kritchevsky and L Launer and M Garcia and G Eiriksdottir and JJ Carr and V Gudnason and TB Harris and LA Cupples and IB Borecki}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS Genetics}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15565/}, abstract = {Body fat distribution, particularly centralized obesity, is associated with metabolic risk above and beyond total adiposity. We performed genome-wide association of abdominal adipose depots quantified using computed tomography (CT) to uncover novel loci for body fat distribution among participants of European ancestry. Subcutaneous and visceral fat were quantified in 5,560 women and 4,997 men from 4 population-based studies. Genome-wide genotyping was performed using standard arrays and imputed to {\texttt{\char126}}2.5 million Hapmap SNPs. Each study performed a genome-wide association analysis of subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), visceral adipose tissue (VAT), VAT adjusted for body mass index, and VAT/SAT ratio (a metric of the propensity to store fat viscerally as compared to subcutaneously) in the overall sample and in women and men separately. A weighted z-score meta-analysis was conducted. For the VAT/SAT ratio, our most significant p-value was rs11118316 at LYPLAL1 gene (p = 3.1{$\times$}10E-09), previously identified in association with waist-hip ratio. For SAT, the most significant SNP was in the FTO gene (p = 5.9{$\times$}10E-08). Given the known gender differences in body fat distribution, we performed sex-specific analyses. Our most significant finding was for VAT in women, rs1659258 near THNSL2 (p = 1.6{$\times$}10-08), but not men (p = 0.75). Validation of this SNP in the GIANT consortium data demonstrated a similar sex-specific pattern, with observed significance in women (p = 0.006) but not men (p = 0.24) for BMI and waist circumference (p = 0.04 [women], p = 0.49 [men]). Finally, we interrogated our data for the 14 recently published loci for body fat distribution (measured by waist-hip ratio adjusted for BMI); associations were observed at 7 of these loci. In contrast, we observed associations at only 7/32 loci previously identified in association with BMI; the majority of overlap was observed with SAT. Genome-wide association for visceral and subcutaneous fat revealed a SNP for VAT in women. More refined phenotypes for body composition and fat distribution can detect new loci not previously uncovered in large-scale GWAS of anthropometric traits.} } @unpublished{pittir13954, month = {September}, title = {Performance of Students with Visual Impairments on High-Stakes Tests: A Pennsylvania Report Card}, author = {Lynn Fox}, year = {2012}, keywords = {high-stakes testing, accommodations, visual impairment, low vision, blind, proficiency standards, NCLB}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13954/}, abstract = {Students with disabilities participate in high-stakes assessments to meet NCLB?s newer proficiency standards. This study explored performance in reading and math on the Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA), Pennsylvania?s grade-level assessment, to provide a foundational baseline on performance and accommodations used by students with visual impairments (VI). Analysis of an extant data set reviewed students in grades 3-8, and 11over three academic years (2005-2006, 2006-2007, and 2007-2008) to form two sample groups. The larger sample compared the total scaled scores and performance level scores for students with VI to the performance of students who are hard of hearing including Deafness (HH) and specific learning disability (LD), to all Pennsylvania students (ALL PA). The smaller sample identified students with VI with performance level scores in reading and math in three consecutive grades to form four longitudinal subgroups. Analysis of accommodations used by students with VI was conducted for both sample groups. Descriptive statistics were applied for all performance measures across and within grade-levels and academic years. One-way ANOVAs with ad hoc analyses were conducted on the mean test scores per disability group, to determine statistical significance for differences seen descriptively. Analysis of the reading and math performance measures showed that students with VI are doing well on the PSSA, generally scoring the highest of the two disability groups but lower than ALL PA. But these data do not fully describe the performance of students with VI. Surprise findings revealed that students with VI generally do better in math than reading and that a substantial percentage are not proficient and maintain the same performance level category from one grade-level to the next. Trends of accommodations used were identified but the data revealed no apparent common bundling of accommodations with a random year to year provision. To connect high-stakes performance results to instruction, researchers need to have transparent access to tests scores with accommodations used to continue analyzing the performance of students with VI. There is an immediate need for Pennsylvania IEP teams to provide the consistent provision of accommodations for each year?s high-stakes assessment. } } @unpublished{pittir11922, month = {May}, title = {William Grant Still's Vision for American Music}, author = {Joseph Franke}, year = {2012}, keywords = {William Grant Still, Alain Locke, fusion of cultures, influences, Judith Anne Still, Verna Arvey, Harlem Renaissance}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11922/}, abstract = {William Grant Still is commonly referred to as the ?Dean of Afro-American Composers? and his music seen as an expression of African-American spirit. Still?s musical success reached its peak during the time of the Harlem Renaissance, which has led him to be associated with that movement by many writers and scholars. However, several factors contest this association. He was taught from a very young age to contribute to building a new nation. He learned popular forms of musical expression, such as blues and jazz, during his time orchestrating with W. C. Handy. He imbibed a Romantic European symphonic tradition from George Whitefield Chadwick. He studied contemporary musical techniques with Edgard Var{\`e}se. Simultaneously, the Harlem Renaissance blossomed into full-blown African-American cultural uplift. Still did not stay within one particular musical style; his ability to study but not submit to a variety of styles hints at another purpose to his musical compositions. An examination of his correspondence with leading Harlem Renaissance figure Alain Locke reveals that Still, while proud of his heritage, foresaw the emergence of a new race, in which all the races in America would merge and become one. This invites re-consideration of the perceptions of Still?s brand of nationalism, as well as his relationship to American music history in general and to African-American history in particular.} } @article{pittir13225, volume = {7}, number = {2}, month = {February}, title = {[ {\ensuremath{<}}sup{\ensuremath{>}}11{\ensuremath{<}}/sup{\ensuremath{>}}C]flumazenil binding is increased in a dose-dependent manner with tiagabine-induced elevations in GABA levels}, author = {WG Frankle and RY Cho and NS Mason and CM Chen and M Himes and C Walker and DA Lewis and CA Mathis and R Narendran}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13225/}, abstract = {Evidence indicates that synchronization of cortical activity at gamma-band frequencies, mediated through GABA-A receptors, is important for perceptual/cognitive processes. To study GABA signaling in vivo, we recently used a novel positron emission tomography (PET) paradigm measuring the change in binding of the benzodiazepine (BDZ) site radiotracer [ 11C]flumazenil associated with increases in extracellular GABA induced via GABA membrane transporter (GAT1) blockade with tiagabine. GAT1 blockade resulted in significant increases in [ 11C]flumazenil binding potential (BPND) over baseline in the major functional domains of the cortex, consistent with preclinical studies showing that increased GABA levels enhance the affinity of GABA-A receptors for BDZ ligands. In the current study we sought to replicate our previous results and to further validate this approach by demonstrating that the magnitude of increase in [ 11C]flumazenil binding observed with PET is directly correlated with tiagabine dose. [ 11C]flumazenil distribution volume (VT) was measured in 18 healthy volunteers before and after GAT1 blockade with tiagabine. Two dose groups were studied (n = 9 per group; Group I: tiagabine 0.15 mg/kg; Group II: tiagabine 0.25 mg/kg). GAT1 blockade resulted in increases in mean ({$\pm$} SD) [ 11C]flumazenil VT in Group II in association cortices (6.8{$\pm$}0.8 mL g-1 vs. 7.3{$\pm$}0.4 mL g-1;p = 0.03), sensory cortices (6.7{$\pm$}0.8 mL g-1 vs. 7.3{$\pm$}0.5 mL g-1;p = 0.02) and limbic regions (5.2{$\pm$}0.6 mL g-1 vs. 5.7{$\pm$}0.3 mL g-1;p = 0.03). No change was observed at the low dose (Group I). Increased orbital frontal cortex binding of [ 11C]flumazenil in Group II correlated with the ability to entrain cortical networks (r = 0.67, p = 0.05) measured via EEG during a cognitive control task. These data provide a replication of our previous study demonstrating the ability to measure in vivo, with PET, acute shifts in extracellular GABA. {\copyright} 2012 Frankle et al.} } @article{pittir29887, volume = {9}, month = {May}, title = {CAR/FoxP3-engineered T regulatory cells target the CNS and suppress EAE upon intranasal delivery}, author = {M Fransson and E Piras and J Burman and B Nilsson and M Essand and BF Lu and RA Harris and PU Magnusson and E Brittebo and ASI Loskog}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of Neuroinflammation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29887/}, abstract = {Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system (CNS). In the murine experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model of MS, T regulatory (Treg) cell therapy has proved to be beneficial, but generation of stable CNS-targeting Tregs needs further development. Here, we propose gene engineering to achieve CNS-targeting Tregs from na{\"i}ve CD4 cells and demonstrate their efficacy in the EAE model.Methods: CD4+ T cells were modified utilizing a lentiviral vector system to express a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) targeting myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) in trans with the murine FoxP3 gene that drives Treg differentiation. The cells were evaluated in vitro for suppressive capacity and in C57BL/6 mice to treat EAE. Cells were administered by intranasal (i.n.) cell delivery.Results: The engineered Tregs demonstrated suppressive capacity in vitro and could efficiently access various regions in the brain via i.n cell delivery. Clinical score 3 EAE mice were treated and the engineered Tregs suppressed ongoing encephalomyelitis as demonstrated by reduced disease symptoms as well as decreased IL-12 and IFNgamma mRNAs in brain tissue. Immunohistochemical markers for myelination (MBP) and reactive astrogliosis (GFAP) confirmed recovery in mice treated with engineered Tregs compared to controls. Symptom-free mice were rechallenged with a second EAE-inducing inoculum but remained healthy, demonstrating the sustained effect of engineered Tregs.Conclusion: CNS-targeting Tregs delivered i.n. localized to the CNS and efficiently suppressed ongoing inflammation leading to diminished disease symptoms. {\copyright} 2012 Fransson et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir10878, month = {June}, title = {Harnessing Protein Transport Principles for Engineering Applications: A Computational Study}, author = {Eric Freeman}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Computational Modeling, Biomimetics, Endocytosis, Drug Delivery, Eutrophication, Biomembranes, Lipid Membranes, Osmotic Actuation, Biochar, Electroactive Polymers, Cellular Mechanics, Smart Materials, Active Materials, Proton Sponge, Biologically Inspired Materials}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10878/}, abstract = {The biological world contains elegant solutions to complex engineering problems. Through reproducing these observed biological behaviors it may be possible to improve upon current technologies. In addition, the biological world is, at its core, built upon cellar mechanics. The combination of these observations prompts an exploration of cellular mechanics for engineering purposes This dissertation focuses on the construction of a computational model for predicting the behavior of biologically inspired systems of protein transporters, and linking the observed behaviors to desired attributes such as blocked force, free strain, purification, and vaccine delivery. The goal of the dissertation is to utilize these example cases as inspirations for development of cellular systems for engineering purposes. Through this approach it is possible to offer insights into the benefits and drawbacks associated with the usage of cellular mechanics, and to provide a framework for how these cellular mechanisms may be applied. The intent is to define a generalized modeling framework which may be applied to an extraordinary range of engineering design goals. Three distinctly different application cases are demonstrated via the bioderived model which serves as the basis of this dissertation. First the bioderived model is shown to be effective for characterizing the naturally occurring case of endocytosis. It is subsequently applied to the distinctly different cases of water purification and actuation to illustrate versatility. } } @unpublished{pittir10801, month = {January}, title = {Zambian Health Education Using Supercourse(ZHEUS): The Effectiveness of a Computer-based Learning Resource Among Healthcare Professionals in the Southern Province of Zambia}, author = {Kyle Freese}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Africa, Internet, Zambia, Supercourse, Education, Health Education, Healthcare, Southern Province, Pre test, Post test, }, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10801/}, abstract = {The purpose of this study was to introduce and evaluate the effectiveness of a computer-based learning resource (Supercourse) among rural healthcare professionals in the Southern Province of Zambia. This is the first field evaluation of Supercourse. Supercourse is a free, online, open-access repository of global health and prevention PowerPoint lectures and can be accessed at http://www.pitt.edu/{\texttt{\char126}}super1. It is a way for members of the scientific community to disseminate and share knowledge with each other. While Supercourse has gained popularity in many nations, its viability is not known in a developing setting such as Zambia. This investigation aimed to examine Supercourse?s viability as a learning resource in rural Zambia. A series of three lectures was provided to 41 healthcare professionals, reporting backgrounds of nursing, midwifery, dentistry, clinical support, and pharmacy. Participants completed a pre- and post-test on topics including: male circumcision and its relationship to HIV transmission, public health approaches to cataract treatment, and general global health awareness. Qualitative feedback to gauge the real-world viability of Supercourse as a resource was gathered via small focus groups. Participants showed a 27.7\% increase in knowledge from pre- to post-test (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.001). Midwives increased their scores to the greatest degree, with a mean improvement of 37.5\% (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.02). Participants improved the greatest deal on questions relating to global health (42\%, p{\ensuremath{<}}0.001). Focus group responses resulted in several themes. The majority of participants enjoyed learning information in the Supercourse format; they enjoyed the combination of visual and verbal presentation. While effective, participants expressed concern over their lack of computer literacy and commonly noted a need for improved technological infrastructure within their places of work. This program significantly increased participants? knowledge regarding male circumcision, cataract, and global health. Because of the small sample size, this information may not be generalizable to the entire Zambian population, but the results gathered warrant further investigation. This investigation has several relevant implications for the field of public health. Most of all, improving access to educational materials can, in fact, increase knowledge of important health topics in a resource poor environment among an underserved population. } } @article{pittir29935, volume = {9}, number = {1}, month = {April}, title = {Personalized neuromusculoskeletal modeling to improve treatment of mobility impairments: A perspective from European research sites}, author = {BJ Fregly and ML Boninger and DJ Reinkensmeyer}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29935/}, abstract = {Mobility impairments due to injury or disease have a significant impact on quality of life. Consequently, development of effective treatments to restore or replace lost function is an important societal challenge. In current clinical practice, a treatment plan is often selected from a standard menu of options rather than customized to the unique characteristics of the patient. Furthermore, the treatment selection process is normally based on subjective clinical experience rather than objective prediction of post-treatment function. The net result is treatment methods that are less effective than desired at restoring lost function. This paper discusses the possible use of personalized neuromusculoskeletal computer models to improve customization, objectivity, and ultimately effectiveness of treatments for mobility impairments. The discussion is based on information gathered from academic and industrial research sites throughout Europe, and both clinical and technical aspects of personalized neuromusculoskeletal modeling are explored. On the clinical front, we discuss the purpose and process of personalized neuromusculoskeletal modeling, the application of personalized models to clinical problems, and gaps in clinical application. On the technical front, we discuss current capabilities of personalized neuromusculoskeletal models along with technical gaps that limit future clinical application. We conclude by summarizing recommendations for future research efforts that would allow personalized neuromusculoskeletal models to make the greatest impact possible on treatment design for mobility impairments. {\copyright} 2012 Fregly et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir13532, month = {September}, title = {The Referential Functions of Agency: Health workers in medical missions to Madiha (Kulina) Indians in the Brazilian Amazon}, author = {Christian Frenopoulo}, year = {2012}, keywords = {agency, healthcare workers, medical mission, Amazon, Kulina, Indians}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13532/}, abstract = {This dissertation presents the results of a study of health workers in a medical mission in the Brazilian Amazon. The study aims to scrutinize health mission workers? perceived capacities and abilities to deliver itinerant biomedical health services to Madiha (Kulina) Indians in the Brazilian Amazon. Participant observation with the health mission workers involved accompanying them in medical mission trips to Madiha villages and settlements in the Upper Purus River region. Madiha are hunters and manioc horticulturalists. The research shows that health mission workers participate in three social spaces during a mission journey. In the work space, they perform rigid role behaviors that emphasize biomedical technical procedure and the use of imported technical practices and knowledge. In their domestic space, located on the boat that they use for living and traveling, their behaviors emphasize ethnic similarity and a self-assumed status as trustees of the Madiha population?s health welfare. In the population?s domestic spaces, they attempt to participate in activities that can award them a status as equals to the villagers. The analysis of their interactions in these spaces suggests that their capacities and abilities are constructed according to a foreign/local polarity. The polarity underscores their missionary status as expert outsiders who need to engage in active efforts to achieve legitimacy among the patient population. Throughout the day, they constantly switch their positioning relative to one another and to the villagers, in order to navigate the ambiguity of their missionary status. In this way, they inhabit the various domestic and work spaces differently, cross-referencing each space with alternating behaviors. The dissertation attempts to contribute to the theory of human agency in anthropology by proposing that agency configurations are not properties of social actors, but circumstantial indexes of relative position in specific types of relationships. Agency is comprehensible relative to role arrangements. In this sense, agency would have two referential functions. Agency would indicate an actor?s position relative to resources and relative to other actors. Thus, agency attribution is an interpretation of the value of actions and of the relative status of actors. } } @incollection{pittir22884, month = {December}, title = {Lexical entrainment and success in student engineering groups}, author = {H Friedberg and D Litman and SBF Paletz}, year = {2012}, pages = {404 -- 409}, journal = {2012 IEEE Workshop on Spoken Language Technology, SLT 2012 - Proceedings}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22884/}, abstract = {Lexical entrainment is a measure of how the words that speakers use in a conversation become more similar over time. In this paper, we propose a measure of lexical entrainment for multi-party speaking situations. We apply this score to a corpus of student engineering groups using high-frequency words and project words, and investigate the relationship between lexical entrainment and group success on a class project. Our initial findings show that, using the entrainment score with project-related words, there is a significant difference between the lexical entrainment of high performing groups, which tended to increase with time, and the entrainment for low performing groups, which tended to decrease with time. {\copyright} 2012 IEEE.} } @incollection{pittir20470, month = {February}, author = {Benjamin E Friedline and Lauren Brittany Collister}, note = {Permission to post publisher's copy with imprint granted by Katie Gallof, Acquisitions Editor at Bloomsbury, in e-mail chain dated January 29 and 30, 2014.}, booktitle = {Dungeons, Dragons, and Digital Denizens: The Digital Role-Playing Game}, editor = {Gerald A Voorhees and Joshua Call and Katie Whitlock}, address = {New York}, title = {Constructing a Powerful Identity in World of Warcraft: A Sociolinguistic Approach to MMORPGs}, publisher = {Continuum}, year = {2012}, pages = {194 -- 218}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20470/} } @unpublished{pittir11642, month = {April}, title = {PREDICTING SAVINGS FROM ADOLESCENCE TO YOUNG ADULTHOOD: EARLY ACCESS TO SAVINGS LEADS TO IMPROVED SAVINGS OUTCOMES}, author = {Terri Friedline}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Children; Savings; Panel Study of Income Dynamics; propensity score analysis}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11642/}, abstract = {Young people?s savings has received attention for its unique effects on educational outcomes, namely college attendance and graduation. Young people are three to six times more likely to attend and graduate from college when they have savings accounts of their own compared to those without savings accounts, even when considering household income and assets. Given these findings, researchers and policymakers are offering up young people?s savings as a solution for mitigating the effects of parents? and households? financial resources on educational outcomes. For the most part, research focuses on young people?s savings as a predictor, giving less consideration to variables that predict their savings. This distinction is relevant given the potential for selection bias in how young people come to have savings. Young people?s savings may be another manifestation of households? financial resources, meaning that young people have savings accounts more often when their parents and households have greater financial resources. Along these lines, questions of interest include whether young people?s financial outcomes, and ultimately their educational outcomes, can be improved by extending access early in life to basic financial services like savings accounts. This dissertation tests predictors of young people?s savings{--}including having savings accounts and median amount saved ({$\pm$}\$600){--}between adolescence and young adulthood using a longitudinal sample (N = 694) from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics (PSID) and its 2002 Child Development (CDS) and 2007 Transition into Adulthood (TA) Supplements. Propensity score weighting accounts for observed selection into groups of adolescents with and without savings accounts. As the evidence stands, early access to savings leads to improved financial outcomes. Results indicate that young adults are almost two-and-a-half times more likely to have savings accounts and almost two times more likely to have savings above the median when they have savings accounts as adolescents. Young adults are more likely to have savings accounts and more money saved when their heads of households have more education and prestigious occupations, and parents have savings on adolescents? behalf (e.g., 529 savings plans, Roth IRAs). Policy innovations that extend access to savings accounts may be a novel way to improve young people?s outcomes.} } @unpublished{pittir11849, month = {May}, title = {An Analysis of the Compositional Practices of Ornette Coleman as Demonstrated in His Small Group Recordings During the 1970s}, author = {Nathan Frink}, year = {2012}, keywords = {harmolodic, Prime Time, Asha Puthli, Jamaaladeen Tacuma, Ronald Shannon Jackson, Denardo Coleman, Charlie Haden, Bern Nix, James Blood Ulmer, electric, instruments, jazz, avant-garde, free jazz, Joujouka, music, riff, modular, arrangement, theme, theory }, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11849/}, abstract = {This study is an examination of the musical output of Ornette Coleman?s small ensembles during the 1970s. The primary goal of the paper is to define the specific changes that took place in the early part of the decade that distinguish the artist?s later musical conception from that which he employed during the previous years. In order to create such a discussion, the study explores several areas of both Ornette?s life and music, and asserts that throughout this decade Ornette?s creative processes frequently exceeded the boundaries that existed in his music of the previous period. The paper is divided into three sections: historical background; Ornette?s ?Renaissance?; and an analysis of compositional techniques and improvisatory style between 1971 and 1979, the years that comprise his most extreme departure from the practices in his earlier and more commonly accepted recordings. The overall trend shows an apparent shift in Ornette?s musical thinking represented by several experimentations with ensemble, tone color, and compositional practice. The result of these undertakings eventually gave rise to a new vision for his art represented by the electric group, Prime Time.} } @unpublished{pittir11768, month = {June}, title = {Pitch Symmetry in Martin Bresnick's "My Twentieth Century" and "Meden Agan" for Chamber Ensemble}, author = {Mark Fromm}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Bresnick, pitch symmetry, axis of symmetry, Tom Andrews, text setting, rhythmic ostinato}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11768/}, abstract = {The analysis component of this dissertation focuses on the pitch world and harmonic language in Martin Bresnick?s "My Twentieth Century" for sextet. The surface-level harmony consists solely of major and minor triads, while the underlying structure relies on a pitch-class axis of symmetry. Bresnick crafts a pitch world that balances diatonicism with pitch symmetry by unifying salient aspects of both. First, he uses a four-note diatonic segment ([0 2 3 5] or tone-semitone-tone) as his primary melodic unit. He then builds chord progressions from such segments using only major and minor triads; this creates phrases that each contain exactly four chords. To derive a harmonic progression for the consequent phrase, he takes the pitch-classes from the initial four-chord phrase and reflects them about a C\# - G axis of symmetry. Finally, he adds drone pitches on C\# and G, serving as aural reference points and making the axis of symmetry explicit. By choosing to use reflected pitch structures sequentially rather than simultaneously, Bresnick avoids mirrored melodies in which two voices begin in unison, move equal distances in contrary motion, and return to the starting pitch. (Such melodies are common to the symmetrical structures found in works of Bart{\'o}k and Ligeti.) Instead, by creating a series of four triads in one phrase and then reflecting those triads in the next phrase, he creates an audible link between the two without simple transposition, inversion, or retrogression. This paper is an in-depth analysis of "My Twentieth Century," focusing on pitch symmetry and harmonic language. Bresnick?s adherence to his plan is so rigorous that the analysis accounts for every pitch in the piece. The composition component of this dissertation, Meden Agan for chamber ensemble, explores the idea of creating two disparate musical ideas and amalgamating them as the piece unfolds. The title derives from the Ancient Greek idea of balancing the Dionysian (excess) and the Apollonian (moderation). Musically this unfolds by alternating episodes of wild, heterophonic woodwind-led music with calm, exacting polyphony led by the strings. Gradually, each group takes on ideas of the other until they are fused and indistinguishable in the end.} } @unpublished{pittir13226, month = {September}, title = {MENTAL CAPACITIES AND THEIR IMPERFECT EXERCISES: THE ESSENTIAL NORMATIVITY OF THE MIND}, author = {Kim Frost}, year = {2012}, keywords = {MIND, MISTAKES, FALLIBLE CAPACITIES, DIRECTION OF FIT, BASIC ACTION, NORMATIVITY OF THE INTENTIONAL}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13226/}, abstract = {I develop Anscombe?s distinction between mistakes in judgment and mistakes in performance into a novel account of intentional action and the metaphysics of mind. Anscombe?s distinction is usually understood in terms of the ?direction of fit? possessed by different kinds of mental states. In Chapter 1 I argue that direction of fit is a hopeless idea. Direction of fit is guided by intuitions of symmetry, but those intuitions are misguided: there are ineliminable asymmetries between the mind?s theoretical and practical activity. I further argue that Anscombe?s distinction is best understood not in terms of direction of fit, but in terms of mental activity that is partially constituted by norms. In Chapter 2 I develop a theory of fallible capacities: capacities that sometimes issue in mistakes. Fallible capacities are essentially normative because norms are built into their logical structure. I argue for the essential normativity of the mind on the basis of the claim that the fallible capacity to know is essential to minds like ours. The primary dialectical opponent to the argument is a reductive naturalist, who accepts the appearance that we have a fallible capacity to know, but offers a reductive account of what it is to possess that capacity. I argue that such reductive accounts fail; the options are to reject the appearances outright, or to accept that the mind is essentially normative. Chapter 3 solves a problem about action individuation. A basic action is one that is not performed by means of some other action. Basic action theorists say that all intentional actions decompose into basic actions; Michael Thompson says that none do. I argue that neither view is right, because action individuation is up to individual agents themselves. I further argue that this independently plausible conception of intentional action is, in one key respect, best accommodated by the theory of fallible capacities outlined in Chapter 2, because that theory can explain why mistakes in performance fall into the logical category of particulars; something that traditional basic action theory and Thompson?s view cannot easily explain. } } @article{pittir14158, volume = {7}, number = {3}, month = {February}, author = {Deborah Heydenburg Fuller and Premeela Rajakumar and Jenny W Che and Amithi Narendran and Julia Nyaundi and Heather Michael and Eric J Yager and Cristy Stagnar and Brendon Wahlberg and Rachel Taber and Joel R Haynes and Fiona C Cook and Peter Ertl and John Tite and Angela M Amedee and Michael Murphey-Corb}, title = {Therapeutic DNA vaccine induces broad T cell responses in the gut and sustained protection from viral rebound and AIDS in SIV-infected rhesus macaques.}, journal = {PLoS One}, pages = {e33715 -- ?}, year = {2012}, keywords = {AIDS Vaccines, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, Animals, Immunization, Interferon-gamma, Macaca mulatta, SAIDS Vaccines, Simian Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, Vaccines, DNA}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14158/}, abstract = {Immunotherapies that induce durable immune control of chronic HIV infection may eliminate the need for life-long dependence on drugs. We investigated a DNA vaccine formulated with a novel genetic adjuvant that stimulates immune responses in the blood and gut for the ability to improve therapy in rhesus macaques chronically infected with SIV. Using the SIV-macaque model for AIDS, we show that epidermal co-delivery of plasmids expressing SIV Gag, RT, Nef and Env, and the mucosal adjuvant, heat-labile E. coli enterotoxin (LT), during antiretroviral therapy (ART) induced a substantial 2-4-log fold reduction in mean virus burden in both the gut and blood when compared to unvaccinated controls and provided durable protection from viral rebound and disease progression after the drug was discontinued. This effect was associated with significant increases in IFN-{\ensuremath{\gamma}} T cell responses in both the blood and gut and SIV-specific CD8+ T cells with dual TNF-{\ensuremath{\alpha}} and cytolytic effector functions in the blood. Importantly, a broader specificity in the T cell response seen in the gut, but not the blood, significantly correlated with a reduction in virus production in mucosal tissues and a lower virus burden in plasma. We conclude that immunizing with vaccines that induce immune responses in mucosal gut tissue could reduce residual viral reservoirs during drug therapy and improve long-term treatment of HIV infection in humans.} } @article{pittir15880, volume = {7}, number = {8}, month = {August}, title = {Functional characterization of 8-oxoguanine DNA glycosylase of Trypanosoma cruzi}, author = {C Furtado and M Kunrath-Lima and MA Raj{\~a}o and IC Mendes and MB de Moura and PC Campos and AM Macedo and GR Franco and SDJ Pena and SMR Teixeira and B van Houten and CR Machado}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15880/}, abstract = {The oxidative lesion 8-oxoguanine (8-oxoG) is removed during base excision repair by the 8-oxoguanine DNA glycosylase 1 (Ogg1). This lesion can erroneously pair with adenine, and the excision of this damaged base by Ogg1 enables the insertion of a guanine and prevents DNA mutation. In this report, we identified and characterized Ogg1 from the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi (TcOgg1), the causative agent of Chagas disease. Like most living organisms, T. cruzi is susceptible to oxidative stress, hence DNA repair is essential for its survival and improvement of infection. We verified that the TcOGG1 gene encodes an 8-oxoG DNA glycosylase by complementing an Ogg1-defective Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain. Heterologous expression of TcOGG1 reestablished the mutation frequency of the yeast mutant ogg1-/- (CD138) to wild type levels. We also demonstrate that the overexpression of TcOGG1 increases T. cruzi sensitivity to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Analysis of DNA lesions using quantitative PCR suggests that the increased susceptibility to H2O2 of TcOGG1-overexpressor could be a consequence of uncoupled BER in abasic sites and/or strand breaks generated after TcOgg1 removes 8-oxoG, which are not rapidly repaired by the subsequent BER enzymes. This hypothesis is supported by the observation that TcOGG1-overexpressors have reduced levels of 8-oxoG both in the nucleus and in the parasite mitochondrion. The localization of TcOgg1 was examined in parasite transfected with a TcOgg1-GFP fusion, which confirmed that this enzyme is in both organelles. Taken together, our data indicate that T. cruzi has a functional Ogg1 ortholog that participates in nuclear and mitochondrial BER. {\copyright} 2012 Furtado et al.} } @unpublished{pittir13573, month = {September}, title = {ON THE EDGE OF AL-QAIDA? ASSESSING AL-QAIDA'S CHANGING ROLE IN TERRORIST PLOTS AND ATTACKS}, author = {LUKE M. GERDES}, year = {2012}, keywords = {AL-QAIDA, AL-QAEDA, TERRORISM, EXTREMISM, VIOLENT NON-STATE ACTORS, NETWORK ANALYSIS}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13573/}, abstract = {This dissertation investigates changes in the extent and nature of al-Qaida?s involvement in Salafist-motivated terrorism over time. It makes use of an original, hand-coded dataset that examines relationships among individuals involved in terror events in order to build a formal network-based model of violent extremist organizations? membership. These designations serve as the basis for a procedure that estimates the extent of organizations? functional involvement in more than 500 completed terror attacks, as well as approximately 180 incomplete terror plots. According to these quantitative estimates, al-Qaida?s role in Islamist terrorism is far less substantial than often assumed by the press and policy makers, but in order to more fully explore changes in the organization?s pattern of involvement in terrorism, the study?s quantitative findings also served as a metric for the selection of qualitative cases, which were examined using structured-focused comparison. This narrative assessment reinforced the conclusions of the quantitative estimate, and found that the quality and capability of al-Qaida?s operatives has steadily declined over time, even as the depth of al-Qaida?s involvement with so-called partner organizations has waned. Because al-Qaida is not the global Islamist juggernaut it is often portrayed to be, the United States? already well-designed counterterrorism strategy requires minor amendment in order to better target the myriad terror groups that comprise the contemporary Islamist threat.} } @unpublished{pittir13560, month = {September}, title = {WILLIAM HARVEY, SOUL SEARCHER: TELELOGY AND PHILOSOPHICAL ANATOMY}, author = {BENJAMIN GOLDBERG}, year = {2012}, keywords = {William Harvey, early modern medicine, philosophy, teleology, anatomy, methodology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13560/}, abstract = {The goal of this dissertation is to understand the ways in which teleology structures the natural philosophy of William Harvey (1578-1657), who announced the circulation of the blood in his De motu cordis (1628). I shall incorporate new archival research, as well as the study of a number of texts that have not yet received due attention, including the Prelectiones anatomie universalis (1616-1627) and the De generatione animalium (1651). My study is divided into three parts. The first two parts focus upon on the role of two sorts of teleology. I first discuss the teleology of being, which characterizes the functioning and material organization of the parts of the body, what one would call today ?physiology and anatomy?. I then turn to examine the teleology of becoming, which characterizes the process of the generation of those parts, what one would call today ?embryological development?. The third section shifts to examining Harvey?s methods in light of this conception of the subject matter. I start by articulating how, in general, Harvey conceives of anatomy not as a body of pre-existing knowledge, but rather as an active ability, combining skills of hand, eye, and mind. I then turn to look in detail at Harvey?s particular methods. Harvey?s methodology was an innovative reinterpretation and extension of Aristotle and Galen, mediated by certain Renaissance trends in medicine and natural philosophy. I focus specifically on how experience and experiment are used to determine final causes.} } @article{pittir22455, volume = {78}, number = {240}, month = {August}, author = {Carolina Gainza}, title = {J. Andrew Brown, {\ensuremath{<}}i{\ensuremath{>}}Cyborgs in Latin America}, journal = {Revista Iberoamericana}, pages = {710 -- 714}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22455/} } @techreport{pittir28174, type = {Project Report}, title = {National Survey of Counseling Center Directors 2011}, author = {Robert P Gallagher}, publisher = {The International Association of Counseling Services (IACS)}, year = {2012}, note = {This project could not be accomplished without the financial support of the Provost's Office at the University of Pittsburgh, the space provided by the School of Education's Department of Administrative and Policy Studies, and the assistance of the Technical Support Office. Funding has also been generously provided by the American College Counseling Association (ACCA) and the Association for University and College Counseling Center Directors (AUCCCD). ACCA actively promotes ethical professional counselor practice and training in higher education settings. ACCA also offers opportunities for advocacy and leadership, provides continuing education, facilitates communication within the profession, funds and disseminates research, and publicly recognizes meritorious contributions to the profession.}, institution = {University of Pittsburgh}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/28174/} } @article{pittir15566, volume = {7}, number = {5}, month = {May}, author = {Emilia Galperin and Lina Abdelmoti and Alexander Sorkin}, title = {Shoc2 Is Targeted to Late Endosomes and Required for Erk1/2 Activation in EGF-Stimulated Cells}, publisher = {Public Library of Science (PLoS)}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, pages = {e36469 -- e36469}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15566/} } @article{pittir29867, volume = {5}, number = {1}, title = {Augmenter of liver regeneration}, author = {Chandrashekhar R Gandhi}, year = {2012}, pages = {10 -- 10}, journal = {Fibrogenesis \& Tissue Repair}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29867/} } @unpublished{pittir10974, month = {February}, title = {THE ROLE OF CONSTITUTIVE ANDROSTANE RECEPTOR AND ESTROGEN SULFOTRANSFERASE IN ENERGY HOMEOSTASIS}, author = {Jie Gao}, year = {2012}, keywords = {constitutive androstane receptor; estrogen sulfotransferase; energy homeostasis;}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10974/}, abstract = {Obesity and type 2 diabetes are related metabolic disorders of high prevalence. The constitutive androstane receptor (CAR) was initially characterized as a xenobiotic receptor regulating the responses of mammals to xenotoxicants. In this study, I have uncovered an unexpected role of CAR in preventing obesity and alleviating type 2 diabetes. Activation of CAR prevented obesity and improved insulin sensitivity in both the HFD-induced type 2 diabetic model and the ob/ob mice. In contrast, CAR null mice maintained on a chow diet showed spontaneous insulin insensitivity. The metabolic benefits of CAR activation may have resulted from inhibition of hepatic lipogenesis and gluconeogenesis. The molecular mechanism through which CAR activation suppressed hepatic gluconeogenesis might be mediated via peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator-1 alpha (PGC-1{\ensuremath{\alpha}}). CAR can interact with PGC-1{\ensuremath{\alpha}} and sequestrate it into promyelocytic leukemia (PML) nuclear bodies, thus preventing the PGC-1{\ensuremath{\alpha}} from binding to the promoter region of gluconeogenesis genes. Estrogen sulfotransferase (EST), the enzyme responsible for the sulfonation and inactivation of estrogens, plays an important role in estrogen homeostasis. Here, I showed that induction of hepatic Est is a common feature of type 2 diabetes. Loss of Est in female mice improved metabolic function in ob/ob, dexamethasone- and high-fat diet-induced mouse models of type 2 diabetes. The metabolic benefit of Est ablation included improved body composition, increased energy expenditure and insulin sensitivity, and decreased hepatic gluconeogenesis and lipogenesis. This metabolic benefit appeared to have resulted from decreased estrogen deprivation and increased estrogenic activity in the liver. Interestingly, the effect of Est was gender specific, as Est ablation in ob/ob males exacerbated the diabetic phenotype, which was accounted for by the decreased islet {\ensuremath{\beta}} cell mass and failure of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in vivo. The loss of {\ensuremath{\beta}} cell mass in obe males was associated with increased macrophage infiltration and inflammation in white adipose tissue. In summary, I had uncovered critical roles of CAR and EST in energy metabolism and the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes. Both of CAR and EST may represent novel therapeutic targets in the management type 2 diabetes.} } @article{pittir14140, volume = {7}, number = {2}, month = {February}, title = {TIM-3 expression characterizes regulatory T cells in tumor tissues and is associated with lung cancer progression}, author = {X Gao and Y Zhu and G Li and H Huang and G Zhang and F Wang and J Sun and Q Yang and X Zhang and B Lu}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14140/}, abstract = {Background: T cell immunoglobulin-3 (TIM-3) has been established as a negative regulatory molecule and plays a critical role in immune tolerance. TIM-3 is upregulated in exhausted CD8 + T cells in both chronic infection and tumor. However, the nature of TIM-3 +CD4 + T cells in the tumor microenvironment is unclear. This study is to characterize TIM-3 expressing lymphocytes within human lung cancer tissues and establish clinical significance of TIM-3 expression in lung cancer progression. Methodology: A total of 51 human lung cancer tissue specimens were obtained from pathologically confirmed and newly diagnosed non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Leukocytes from tumor tissues, distal normal lung tissues, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were analyzed for TIM-3 surface expression by flow cytometry. TIM-3 expression on tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) was correlated with clinicopathological parameters. Conclusions: TIM-3 is highly upregulated on both CD4 + and CD8 + TILs from human lung cancer tissues but negligibly expressed on T cells from patients' peripheral blood. Frequencies of IFN-{\ensuremath{\gamma}} + cells were reduced in TIM-3 +CD8 + TILs compared to TIM-3 -CD8 + TILs. However, the level of TIM-3 expression on CD8 + TILs failed to associate with any clinical pathological parameter. Interestingly, we found that approximately 70\% of TIM-3 +CD4 + TILs expressed FOXP3 and about 60\% of FOXP3 + TILs were TIM-3 +. Importantly, TIM-3 expression on CD4 + T cells correlated with poor clinicopathological parameters of NSCLC such as nodal metastasis and advanced cancer stages. Our study reveals a new role of TIM-3 as an important immune regulator in the tumor microenvironment via its predominant expression in regulatory T cells. {\copyright} 2012 Gao et al.} } @article{pittir15896, volume = {7}, number = {8}, month = {August}, title = {Dynamin- and Rab5-Dependent Endocytosis of a Ca{\ensuremath{<}}sup{\ensuremath{>}}2+{\ensuremath{<}}/sup{\ensuremath{>}}-Activated K{\ensuremath{<}}sup{\ensuremath{>}}+{\ensuremath{<}}/sup{\ensuremath{>}} Channel, KCa2.3}, author = {Y Gao and CA Bertuccio and CM Balut and SC Watkins and DC Devor}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15896/}, abstract = {Regulation of the number of ion channels at the plasma membrane is a critical component of the physiological response. We recently demonstrated that the Ca2+-activated K+ channel, KCa2.3 is rapidly endocytosed and enters a Rab35- and EPI64C-dependent recycling compartment. Herein, we addressed the early endocytic steps of KCa2.3 using a combination of fluorescence and biotinylation techniques. We demonstrate that KCa2.3 is localized to caveolin-rich domains of the plasma membrane using fluorescence co-localization, transmission electron microscopy and co-immunoprecipitation (co-IP). Further, in cells lacking caveolin-1, we observed an accumulation of KCa2.3 at the plasma membrane as well as a decreased rate of endocytosis, as assessed by biotinylation. We also demonstrate that KCa2.3 and dynamin II are co-localized following endocytosis as well as demonstrating they are associated by co-IP. Further, expression of K44A dynamin II resulted in a 2-fold increase in plasma membrane KCa2.3 as well as a 3-fold inhibition of endocytosis. Finally, we evaluated the role of Rab5 in the endocytosis of KCa2.3. We demonstrate that expression of a dominant active Rab5 (Q79L) results in the accumulation of newly endocytosed KCa2.3 on to the membrane of the Rab5-induced vacuoles. We confirmed this co-localization by co-IP; demonstrating that KCa2.3 and Rab5 are associated. As expected, if Rab5 is required for the endocytosis of KCa2.3, expression of a dominant negative Rab5 (S34N) resulted in an approximate 2-fold accumulation of KCa2.3 at the plasma membrane. This was confirmed by siRNA-mediated knockdown of Rab5. Expression of the dominant negative Rab5 also resulted in a decreased rate of KCa2.3 endocytosis. These results demonstrate that KCa2.3 is localized to a caveolin-rich domain within the plasma membrane and is endocytosed in a dynamin- and Rab5-dependent manner prior to entering the Rab35/EPI64C recycling compartment and returning to the plasma membrane. {\copyright} 2012 Gao et al.} } @unpublished{pittir11764, month = {June}, title = {Assessing the risk of vibration exposure during wheelchair propulsion}, author = {Yasmin Garcia Mendez}, year = {2012}, keywords = {manual wheelchair users, whole-body vibration, low back pain, wheelchair cushions, seat vibration transmissibility, suspension wheelchair}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11764/}, abstract = {Although the exposure to whole-body vibrations (WBV) has been shown to be detrimental to seated humans, the vibration levels to which wheelchair (WC) users are exposed to in their communities have not been thoroughly examined. Furthermore, some evidence suggests that the cushions used in WCs, the first line of protection, may amplify WBV, although conclusive evidence has not been presented in the literature. The purpose of this work was twofold. First, to evaluate and compare the transmissibility of commercially WC cushions with two laboratory test methods: (1) direct measurement of transmissibility while human subjects propelled a WC over a road course with different cushions and (2) characterization of cushions with a material testing system (MTS) combined with mathematical models of the apparent mass of the human body. Second, to evaluate WBV exposure to WC users in their communities using ISO 2631-1 methods, and determine whether exposure levels are correlated with WC type and/or back pain, which is a physiological symptom of WBV exposures. Results showed that although dynamic characterization of WC cushions is possible with an MTS, the results did not correlate well with the transmissibility obtained in the WC road course. Significant differences were found for transmissibility among the cushions tested, with the air-based cushions having lower transmissibility than the foam- or gel-based cushions. All WC users who participated in this community-based trial were continuously exposed to WBV levels that were within and above the health caution zone specified by ISO 2631-1 during their day-to-day activities. Our evidence suggested that WCs with suspension did not significantly impact the WBV transmitted to WC users. Finally, we found that WC users are exposed to other risk factors to LBP such as prolonged sitting and transfers. WBV exposure to WC users may be an important contributor to LBP as it has been shown to exceed international standards. Suspension systems need to be improved to reduce vibrations transmitted to the users. More research is needed to understand the interplay between posture, WC configuration, and WBV.} } @article{pittir15642, volume = {49}, number = {1}, month = {March}, author = {Y Garcia-Mendez and JL Pearlman and RA Cooper and ML Boninger}, title = {Dynamic stiffness and transmissibility of commercially available wheelchair cushions using a laboratory test method}, journal = {Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development}, pages = {7 -- 22}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15642/}, abstract = {Evidence suggests that wheelchair (WC) users are exposed to unhealthy levels of vibration during WC use. Health risks associated with vibration exposure include vertebral disc degeneration and back pain, which may consequently decrease the function and independence of WC users. Some evidence suggests that the cushions used in WCs may amplify vibrations, although conclusive evidence has not been presented in the literature. This study evaluated and compared the transmissibility of commercially available WC cushions with two laboratory test methods: (1) direct measurement of transmissibility while human subjects propelled a WC over a road course with different cushions and (2) characterization of cushions with a material testing system (MTS) combined with mathematical models of the apparent mass of the human body. Results showed that although dynamic characterization of WC cushions is possible with an MTS, the results did not correlate well with the transmissibility obtained in the WC road course. Significant differences were found for transmissibility among the cushions tested, with the air-based cushions having lower transmissibility than the foam- or gel-based cushions.} } @article{pittir14355, volume = {39}, number = {4}, month = {April}, author = {GP Garlet and APF Trombone and R Menezes and A Letra and CE Repeke and AE Vieira and W Martins and LTD Neves and AP Campanelli and CFD Santos and AR Vieira}, title = {The use of chronic gingivitis as reference status increases the power and odds of periodontitis genetic studies - A proposal based in the exposure concept and clearer resistance and susceptibility phenotypes definition}, journal = {Journal of Clinical Periodontology}, pages = {323 -- 332}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14355/}, abstract = {Aim Current literature on chronic periodontitis genetics encompasses numerous single nucleotide polymorphisms-focused case-control studies with inconsistent and controversial results, which typically disregards the exposure concept embraced by case-control definition. Herein, we propose a case-control design reappraisal by clear phenotype selection, where chronic gingivitis represents a genetically resistant phenotype/genotype opposing the susceptible cohort. Material and methods The hypothesis was tested in healthy, chronic periodontitis and gingivitis groups through Real-time PCR-based allelic discrimination of classic variants IL1B-3954, IL6-174, TNFA-308, IL10-592 and TLR4-299. Results Observed allele/genotype frequencies characterize the healthy group with an intermediate genetic profile between periodontitis and gingivitis cohorts. When comparing genotype/allele frequencies in periodontitis versus healthy and periodontitis versus gingivitis scenarios, the number of positive associations (2-4) and the degree of association (p and odds ratio values) were significantly increased by the new approach proposed (periodontitis versus gingivitis), suggesting the association of IL1B-3954, TNFA-308, IL10-592 and TLR4-299 with periodontitis risk. Power study was also significantly improved by the new study design proposed when compared to the traditional approach. Conclusions The data presented herein support the use of new case-control study design based on the case-control definition and clear resistance/susceptibility phenotypes selection, which can significantly impact the study power and odds of identification of genetic factors involved in PD. {\copyright} 2012 John Wiley \& Sons A/S.} } @incollection{pittir16520, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Security Paradigms Workshop (NSPW)}, month = {September}, title = {The Need for Application-Aware Access Control Evaluation}, author = {William C Garrison and Adam J Lee and Timothy L Hinrichs}, year = {2012}, pages = {1 -- 11}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16520/}, abstract = {Access control is an area where one size does not fit all. However, previous work in access control has focused solely on expressiveness as an absolute measure. Thus, we discuss and justify the need for a new type of evaluation framework for access control, one that is application-aware. To this end, we apply previous work in access control evaluation, as well as lessons learned from evaluation frameworks used in other domains. We describe the analysis components required by such a framework, the challenges involved in building it, and our preliminary work in realizing this ambitious goal. We then theorize about other areas within the security domain that display a similar absence of such evaluation tools, and consider ways in which we can adapt our framework to analyze these broader types of security workloads.} } @article{pittir29836, volume = {9}, month = {September}, title = {Rate and affinity binding constants determined by SPR spectroscopy reveal differential antigenicity of HIV gp120 and gp140}, author = {TL Gearhart and JD Steckbeck and JK Craigo and RC Montelaro}, year = {2012}, journal = {RETROVIROLOGY}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29836/} } @article{pittir29837, volume = {9}, month = {September}, title = {Antigenicity of soluble HIV gp140 trimers reveals differences in solution conformation for differing HIV strains}, author = {TL Gearhart and JD Steckbeck and RC Montelaro and JK Craigo}, year = {2012}, journal = {RETROVIROLOGY}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29837/} } @unpublished{pittir13808, month = {September}, title = {Essays on Immigration}, author = {Serife Genc}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Immigration, human capital, technological change, skill premium, welfare}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13808/}, abstract = {This dissertation analyzes different dimensions of the impacts of immigration from a host country perspective. The focus of the first chapter is on the link between wage premium paid to college education and immigration in Canada. College education premium remained stagnant between 1981 and 2008 in the country. Meanwhile the proportion of hours worked by college graduates among immigrants increased significantly. I use a partial equilibrium model to explore the impact of increasing share of college-graduate immigrants on the sluggish movement of skill premium. I run two counterfactual experiments to achieve this objective. The results from both experiments shows that the increase in the share of skilled immigrants had a negative impact on the college premium in Canada. The second chapter is a joint study with David Brown, Julie Hotchkiss, Myriam Quispe-Agnoli. In this chapter we investigate how the employment of undocumented workers varies along the U.S. business cycles in comparison to the employment of documented workers. We illustrate that undocumented employment is significantly more volatile than the documented employment. The explanation we propose for this evidence is the higher elasticity of substitution between undocumented labor and capital compared to documented labor. Using a partial equilibrium model we can explain 80\% of the volatility of the cyclical component of undocumented employment during the 2000s. The last chapter analyzes the impacts of immigration on the earning, welfare, and college attainment of native Canadians. It is an extension of the partial equilibrium model in chapter 1 to a general equilibrium setting. The findings in this paper suggest that the shift in the composition of immigrants towards college graduates discourages some natives from college education. The welfare impacts of immigration on natives are also analyzed. An interesting result in this analysis is that the shift in the composition of immigrants towards college graduates increases the welfare of college-graduate natives as well as the ones with less than college education. The reasons for this surplus accruing to natives are an increase in the wage earnings of both education groups as well as the decrease in the tax rates on labor income.} } @article{pittir15892, volume = {7}, number = {8}, month = {August}, title = {Selective expression of KCNS3 potassium channel {\ensuremath{\alpha}}-subunit in parvalbumin-containing GABA neurons in the human prefrontal cortex}, author = {D Georgiev and G Gonz{\'a}lez-Burgos and M Kikuchi and Y Minabe and DA Lewis and T Hashimoto}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15892/}, abstract = {The cognitive deficits of schizophrenia appear to be associated with altered cortical GABA neurotransmission in the subsets of inhibitory neurons that express either parvalbumin (PV) or somatostatin (SST). Identification of molecular mechanisms that operate selectively in these neurons is essential for developing targeted therapeutic strategies that do not influence other cell types. Consequently, we sought to identify, in the human cortex, gene products that are expressed selectively by PV and/or SST neurons, and that might contribute to their distinctive functional properties. Based on previously reported expression patterns in the cortex of mice and humans, we selected four genes: KCNS3, LHX6, KCNAB1, and PPP1R2, encoding K+ channel Kv9.3 modulatory {\ensuremath{\alpha}}-subunit, LIM homeobox protein 6, K+ channel Kv{\ensuremath{\beta}}1 subunit, and protein phosphatase 1 regulatory subunit 2, respectively, and examined their colocalization with PV or SST mRNAs in the human prefrontal cortex using dual-label in situ hybridization with 35S- and digoxigenin-labeled antisense riboprobes. KCNS3 mRNA was detected in almost all PV neurons, but not in SST neurons, and PV mRNA was detected in {\ensuremath{>}}90\% of KCNS3 mRNA-expressing neurons. LHX6 mRNA was detected in almost all PV and {\ensuremath{>}}90\% of SST neurons, while among all LHX6 mRNA-expressing neurons 50\% expressed PV mRNA and {\ensuremath{>}}44\% expressed SST mRNA. KCNAB1 and PPP1R2 mRNAs were detected in much larger populations of cortical neurons than PV or SST neurons. These findings indicate that KCNS3 is a selective marker of PV neurons, whereas LHX6 is expressed by both PV and SST neurons. KCNS3 and LHX6 might be useful for characterizing cell-type specific molecular alterations of cortical GABA neurotransmission and for the development of novel treatments targeting PV and/or SST neurons in schizophrenia. {\copyright} 2012 Georgiev et al.} } @article{pittir16177, volume = {136}, number = {13}, month = {April}, title = {Structural characterization of electron-induced proton transfer in the formic acid dimer anion, (HCOOH) {\ensuremath{<}}inf{\ensuremath{>}}2{\ensuremath{<}}/inf{\ensuremath{>}}{\ensuremath{<}}sup{\ensuremath{>}}-{\ensuremath{<}}/sup{\ensuremath{>}}, with vibrational and photoelectron spectroscopies}, author = {HK Gerardi and AF Deblase and CM Leavitt and X Su and KD Jordan and AB McCoy and MA Johnson}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of Chemical Physics}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16177/}, abstract = {The (HCOOH) 2 anion, formed by electron attachment to the formic acid dimer (FA 2), is an archetypal system for exploring the mechanics of the electron-induced proton transfer motif that is purported to occur when neutral nucleic acid base-pairs accommodate an excess electron K. Aflatooni, G. A. Gallup, and P. D. Burrow, J. Phys. Chem. A 102, 6205 (1998)10.1021/jp980865n; J. H. Hendricks, S. A. Lyapustina, H. L. de Clercq, J. T. Snodgrass, and K. H. Bowen, J. Chem Phys. 104, 7788 (1996)10.1063/1.471484; C. Desfrancois, H. Abdoul-Carime, and J. P. Schermann, J. Chem Phys. 104, 7792 (1996). The FA 2 anion and several of its HD isotopologues were isolated in the gas phase and characterized using Ar-tagged vibrational predissociation and electron autodetachment spectroscopies. The photoelectron spectrum of the FA 2 anion was also recorded using velocity-map imaging. The resulting spectroscopic information verifies the equilibrium FA 2- geometry predicted by theory which features a symmetrical, double H-bonded bridge effectively linking together constituents that most closely resemble the formate ion and a dihydroxymethyl radical. The spectroscopic signatures of this ion were analyzed with the aid of calculated anharmonic vibrational band patterns. {\copyright} 2012 American Institute of Physics.} } @unpublished{pittir11793, month = {June}, title = {The Teaching of Writing and the Public Work of the Transnational University}, author = {Hannah Gerrard}, year = {2012}, keywords = {composition, pedagogy, literacy, transnational, public sphere, university, higher education}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11793/}, abstract = {This project enriches recent efforts to ?transnationalize? the field of composition studies by examining the teaching of writing in the context of the university as a transnational institution. In so doing, I also question the association of composition instruction with a national public project concerned with rational argument in a democratic, deliberative public sphere; I argue that this straightforward association is disrupted by the imperatives of the transnational university, and hence ?public writing? pedagogies must better take this context into account. I examine how civic purposes emerge in a range of writing classes ? professional, public, and academic ? as students negotiate the transnational university?s imperatives of flexibility and diversity. I draw on recent rhetorical scholarship that theorizes agency and situation in current contexts of circulation to reconsider the student?s agency in post-national civic spaces, and to propose how writing classes might offer micro-strategies towards potential civic action. In addition to this detailed pedagogical work, I examine how literacy instruction has been and is situated at an institutional level in relation to the changing formation of the university. In constructing a partial history of the teaching of ?composition? in New Zealand, I examine how teachers have understood their work as having civic purposes, and how the increasingly global understanding of the university?s function reconfigures those civic purposes, as notions of access, research and teaching, and institutional responsibility change. I ultimately contextualize this work in New Zealand by looking broadly at recent developments in literacy instruction in the United Kingdom and Australia: I argue that attention to the positioning and the distribution of literacy work in the university across these national contexts makes evident both a transnational milieu of neoliberal reform and distinct national and local responses to such reform. I suggest these transnational negotiations should concern U.S. scholars and teachers committed to ?public? rationales for their work, and to the increasingly compromised work of public education more broadly. In this manner, I question some of the attempts to ?transnationalize? composition studies by aggregating pedagogies and research worldwide, rather than attending to what we might call a transnational ?eduscape.?} } @unpublished{pittir13497, month = {September}, title = {Millennium Development Goal 7.C--Access to Water: An Exploratory Look at Six Countries}, author = {Christina Gerstel}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Water, access, development, millennium development goals}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13497/}, abstract = {At the beginning of 1980, it was estimated that 1.8 billion people, or 40 percent of the world?s population, lacked access to a safe drinking water supply. In 2000, the United Nations established the Millennium Development Goals, and among these goals is MDG 7.C, which aims to reduce by half the proportion of people without sustainable access to safe drinking water. In March of 2012, the WHO and UNICEF announced that the drinking water target for MDG 7.C had been met ahead of the 2015 deadline. However, 30 years after access to safe drinking water became a global priority, millions of people around the world still lack this basic necessity. Water has many important health and developmental applications and consequences. Lack of water or access to poor quality water contributes to inadequate hygienic practices and is closely linked to diseases. High mortality and morbidity rates that result from the inaccessibility of safe water come with significant social and economic costs. With a primary emphasis on the consequences to health, the public health significance of this paper focuses on access to safe drinking water as a means to improve hygiene practices and reduce water-borne diseases. This paper explores six developing countries that have experienced different levels of success in achieving the drinking water target of MDG 7.C. As this analysis reveals, one of the biggest contributing factors that seem to have led to the success of Malawi and Burkina Faso is each country?s ability to absorb the rapid urban population growth each has experienced while still increasing the proportion of the population?s access to improved drinking water sources. Additionally, both countries have made water a specific development priority and backed this up with funding, sound policies and seemingly strong water sector authorities with clearly defined roles. There remain 780 million people without access to safe drinking water who are in constant danger of illness, disability and death. As Malawi and Burkina Faso have demonstrated, MDG 7.C can be achieved. With the right support and planning, many of the world?s poorest countries can achieve the same successes as these two countries. } } @unpublished{pittir10474, month = {January}, title = {A STRESS GENERATION MODEL OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF DEPRESSION IN GIRLS DURING THE TRANSITION TO ADOLESCENCE: ELUCIDATING THE ROLE OF INTERPERSONAL DYSFUNCTION}, author = {Susan Gillo}, year = {2012}, keywords = {depression, adolescence, girls, social stress, social behaviors}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10474/}, abstract = {The goal of the present study was to examine the extent to which deficits in emotional, social-cognitive, and behavioral functioning might precipitate heightened levels of depression symptoms in a community sample of girls followed through the transition to adolescence (ages 11 to 15 years) while also considering the peer, family, and developmental contexts that might attenuate or enhance this pathway. Partial support was found for study hypotheses. First, associations between age 11 negative emotionality, social-cognitive biases, and negative social behaviors, were generally low and below hypothesized ?moderate? levels. Associations within the component measures of these interpersonal domains ranged from low to high and suggested some coherence among the study measures comprising each domain. Second, as expected, age 11 measures of interpersonal functioning predicted elevations in depression symptoms age 15 when each domain was examined separately. Only measures of negative emotionality, however, contributed unique variance in models incorporating all three domains simultaneously. Third, the majority of the main effects of interpersonal deficits were moderated by friendship quality and parent-child interaction; however, the risk-protective processes of having a high quality friendship and positive mother-child relationship were counter to anticipations, leading to worse, rather than better, emotional adjustment, in comparison to other girls. Importantly, parent and peer relationships were not interchangeable, as demonstrated by the little protection high friendship quality offered girls whose interactions with their mothers were low in positive features and also demonstrated poor self-control. On the other hand, high quality mother-child interactions protected against emotional difficulties associated with interpersonal deficits in girls with low friendship quality. Together, these findings highlight the continuing salience of the parent-child relationship in adolescent girls? emotional adjustment, and the need to delineate the dynamic interplay of the peer and parenting contexts as they together shape the development of adolescent girls. Findings suggest that the onset of pubertal development interacts with social contextual factors to accentuate processes linking negative emotionality, but not social-cognitive biases or negative social behaviors, and depression symptoms. Future research should examine other indicators of the adolescent transition as they might accentuate pathways to depression.} } @unpublished{pittir10764, month = {January}, title = {The Association Between Cigarette Smoking Cessation and Gestational Weight Gain}, author = {Katya Giovannetti}, year = {2012}, keywords = {GWG Prenatal Smoking Weight Control Weight Gain Body weight changes Pregnancy Pregnancy Outcomes Reproductive outcomes Lifestyle Prepregnancy BMI }, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10764/}, abstract = {Women with excess gestational weight gain (GWG) have an increased risk of negative reproductive outcomes and major knowledge gaps remain in our understanding of specific causes of excess GWG. Maternal cigarette smoking is not only one of the most important modifiable risk factors for a variety of pregnancy outcomes, but smoking cessation is also a possible predictor for excess GWG. This study?s objective was to examine for the first time the association between smoking cessation at different time points during pregnancy and excess GWG among 124,807 women in Pennsylvania, while taking racial/ethnic differences into account. The data are from Pennsylvania (PA) 2008 birth records. Results from our logistic regression analyses show that after adjusting for covariates, all quitters were at a higher risk of excess GWG as compared to non-smokers. Women who quit prior to pregnancy were 56\% more likely to gain excessive weight as compared to non-smokers (OR = 1.56, 95\% CI: 1.46, 1.66), whereas women who quit later on during pregnancy had a higher risk for excess GWG compared to non-smokers (OR = 1.46, 95\% CI: 1.23, 1.70 for 1st trimester quitters; OR = 1.44, 95\% CI: 1.23, 1.69 for 2nd trimester quitters). We found an interaction between race/ethnicity and smoking status in predicting excess GWG ({\ensuremath{\chi}}2(8) = 16.5, p = 0.03) suggesting that the association between smoking cessation and excess GWG differs by race/ethnicity. These findings are of great public health importance since they emphasize the need for individualized attention to smoking habits from health care professionals so that pregnant women can successfully gain weight within their respective recommended range. } } @unpublished{pittir12130, month = {June}, title = {Molecular Dynamics Simulations of the Mechanical Deformation of Nanoporous Gold}, author = {Ashutosh Giri}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Thesis}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12130/}, abstract = {Nanoporous (np) materials are a class of high strength and low density materials that have unique mechanical, chemical and physical characteristics that accompany them due to the size effect and high surface-area to volume ratio. Their mechanical properties play a vital role in many of their applications such as actuators, sensors and energy absorbers. In this work, the mechanical deformation behavior of np-Au under tensile and compressive stresses was studied by molecular dynamics simulations. The models representing np-Au were generated to capture the morphological features of np metals that have been processed via dealloying techniques. From the results of the simulations, it was found that these materials are brittle under uniaxial tensile loading and are very ductile under compressive loading. The engineering stress-strain relationship suggests that they have characteristic high yield strength and that these unique materials may even be stronger than bulk Au and also have the advantage of being highly porous. The macroscopic brittleness of np-Au presents a problem for useful application of these materials, but the microstructural features can be tailored to reduce the catastrophic failure. Under compression, their deformation behavior is similar to that of the Gibson and Ashby cubic unit cell model where cell wall bending is predicted to be the main deformation mechanism. One important difference between the predicted behavior according to the Gibson and Ashby model and the behavior observed from the atomistic simulations is that for the latter there is considerable strain hardening before foam densification occurs. By examining the crystallographic defects, the strain hardening behavior has been attributed to defects in the crystal structure that accumulates at the joints.} } @unpublished{pittir11841, month = {June}, title = {The recruitment and function of inhibitory interneurons in olfactory bulb processing}, author = {Sonya B.P. Giridhar}, year = {2012}, keywords = {olfactory bulb, inhibition, correlation, latency}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11841/}, abstract = {Inhibitory interneurons are the ?shush?-ers of the brain{--}their output causes a reduction in the output of other neurons. Inhibitory interactions play a critical role in the olfactory bulb, where they shape olfactory representations that guide behavior. However, the mechanisms by which interneuron activation improves olfactory function remain debated. In particular, the relative importance neural activity over short periods of time ({\texttt{\char126}}tens of milliseconds) versus long periods of time (hundreds to thousands of milliseconds) has provoked significant debate. Granule cells are inhibitory interneurons in the olfactory bulb that can respond and influence olfactory bulb activity across a wide range of timescales. The first part of this dissertation investigates the physiological mechanisms driving the timing of granule cell recruitment. We found that the specific timing of recruitment depends on the timing of synaptic excitation delivered from tufted cells. Tufted cells (unlike the more commonly studied mitral cells) are able to fire at long latencies due to intrinsic membrane properties that allow them to integrate weak inputs slowly while responding rapidly to strong inputs. Computational modeling revealed that the long-latency inhibition generated by this mechanism can improve performance on stimulus discrimination tasks. The second portion of this dissertation focuses on the downstream effects of granule cell recruitment. Highly correlated spiking can be advantageous for propagating information. However, these same correlations limit encoding by introducing redundancy. We investigated how granule cell recruitment altered correlations between mitral cell pairs across timescales. We found that granule cell recruitment increased fast timescale correlations (i.e. synchronous spiking) while simultaneously decreasing slow timescale correlations (i.e. firing rate similarity). Using computational modeling, we show that timescale-dependent correlation changes are functionally advantageous because they can circumvent the tradeoff between propagation and encoding. Taken together, these studies extend our understanding of olfactory bulb physiology by providing a mechanistic description of how inhibitory circuits shape activity across timescales. Our results indicate that granule cell recruitment requires dynamic and stimulus-dependent interactions between mitral, tufted, and granule cells, and that the inhibition recruited by this mechanism works at multiple timescales to effectively encode and propagate stimulus information. } } @unpublished{pittir11959, month = {July}, title = {Variation in Six Innate Imune Genes Does Not Determine Protective Immunity Against SIV in Rhesus Macaques }, author = {Blair Gleeson}, year = {2012}, keywords = {HIV, SIV, rhesus macaque, SNPs, CNV}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11959/}, abstract = {HIV vaccine trials in humans have shown variability in vaccine responses among individuals. The SIV:macaque model can be used to understand the outcome of HIV vaccine trials in humans, specifically, the role of the innate immune system in inducing protective immunity. CXCL13, CCL20, CCL1, CCL2, CCL5, and TRIM5{\ensuremath{\alpha}}, molecules of the innate immune system, were selected as part of a study into the relationship between these molecules and vaccine response. Sequence variation in the innate immune genes was determined in 25 rhesus macaques that were part of a SIV vaccine trial, a multiple low dose exposure study, or a control group. PCR primers were designed, based on the published rhesus macaque genome, to amplify approximately 2 kilobases of promoter region and the exons of the genes. Each amplicon was sequenced in at least 8 animals, and the sequences were visually screened for single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Numerous SNPs were detected in all of these genes. Statistical analysis showed that there was no correlation between polymorphisms in these genes and protection against SIV challenge. Copy number variation (CNV) was also examined in these genes using either custom TaqMan copy number assays or SYBR Green assays and quantitative real-time PCR. The results of the TaqMan assay indicate that CXCL13 demonstrates CNV. Genetic variation in these innate immune genes is likely not important in rhesus macaque response to SIV challenge, although larger studies are needed to provide more definitive results. The public Health significance of this study is that understanding genetic factors that influence macaque responses to vaccination or SIV challenge will help us to understand HIV in humans with the goal of developing a more effective vaccine and the ability to predict individual?s susceptibility to disease or response to vaccination. } } @article{pittir29881, volume = {12}, number = {S1}, month = {June}, author = {R Glick and X Jimenez}, title = {P02.62. DHEA augmentation strategy for treatment of fatigue and depression: a case presentation}, publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC}, journal = {BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29881/} } @article{pittir29879, volume = {12}, number = {S1}, month = {June}, author = {R Glick and A White and C Greco and B Handen and E Szigethy and J Jennings}, title = {P01.02. Psychophysiological assessment of the impact of mind-body interventions{--}pilot trial to determine the best assessment methods}, publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC}, journal = {BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29879/} } @article{pittir24207, volume = {97}, number = {9}, month = {September}, title = {Health disparities in endocrine disorders: Biological, clinical, and nonclinical factors - An endocrine society scientific statement}, author = {SH Golden and A Brown and JA Cauley and MH Chin and TL Gary-Webb and C Kim and JA Sosa and AE Sumner and B Anton}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/24207/}, abstract = {Objective: The aim was to provide a scholarly review of the published literature on biological, clinical, and nonclinical contributors to race/ethnic and sex disparities in endocrine disorders and to identify current gaps in knowledge as a focus for future research needs. Participants in Development of Scientific Statement: The Endocrine Society's Scientific Statement Task Force (SSTF) selected the leader of the statement development group (S.H.G.). She selected an eight-member writing group with expertise in endocrinology and health disparities, which was approved by the Society. All discussions regarding the scientific statement content occurred via teleconference or written correspondence. No funding was provided to any expert or peer reviewer, and all participants volunteered their time to prepare this Scientific Statement. Evidence: The primary sources of data on global disease prevalence are from the World Health Organization. A comprehensive literature search of PubMed identified U.S. population-based studies. Search strategies combining Medical Subject Headings terms and keyword terms and phrases defined two concepts: 1) racial, ethnic, and sex differences including specific populations; and 2) the specific endocrine disorderorcondition.The search identified systematic reviews, meta-analyses, largecohort and population based studies, and original studies focusingonthe prevalenceanddeterminants of disparities in endocrine disorders. Consensus Process: The writing group focused on population differences in the highly prevalent endocrine diseases of type 2 diabetes mellitus and related conditions (prediabetes and diabetic complications), gestational diabetes, metabolicsyndromewithafocusonobesityanddyslipidemia, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, and vitamin D deficiency. Authors reviewed and synthesized evidence in their areas of expertise. The final statement incorporated responses to several levels of review: 1) comments of the SSTF and the Advocacy and Public Outreach Core Committee; and 2) suggestions offered by the Council and members of The Endocrine Society. Conclusions: Several themes emerged in the statement, including a need for basic science, populationbased, translational and health services studies to explore underlying mechanisms contributing to endocrine health disparities. Compared to non-Hispanic whites, non-Hispanic blacks have worse outcomes and highermortalityfromcertaindisordersdespitehavingalower(e.g. macrovascularcomplicationsofdiabetes mellitus and osteoporotic fractures) or similar (e.g. thyroid cancer) incidence of these disorders. Obesity is an important contributor to diabetes risk in minority populations and to sex disparities in thyroid cancer, suggesting that population interventions targeting weight loss may favorably impact a number of endocrine disorders. There are important implications regarding the definition of obesity in different race/ethnic groups, including potential underestimation of disease risk in Asian-Americans and overestimation in non-Hispanic blackwomen. Ethnic-specific cut-points for central obesity should be determined so that clinicians can adequately assess metabolic risk. There is little evidence that genetic differences contribute significantly to race/ethnic disparities in the endocrine disorders examined. Multilevel interventions have reduced disparities in diabetes care, and these successes can be modeled to design similar interventions for other endocrine diseases. Copyright {\copyright} 2012 by The Endocrine Society.} } @article{pittir22950, volume = {4}, number = {2}, month = {January}, author = {IM Goldin and KD Ashley and CD Schunn}, title = {Redesigning educational peer review interactions using computer tools: An introduction}, journal = {Journal of Writing Research}, pages = {111 -- 119}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22950/}, abstract = {Peer review is a family of instructional techniques. Historically, these have been employed in writing and many other educational domains. Modern computer technologies facilitate the use of peer review, which is especially relevant to educational settings where it is not practical to administer peer review manually. The use of computer support for peer review has shed light on many important scientific questions, some of which we summarize. These findings set the context for the papers in this special issue, which demonstrate how computer support for peer review enables research on peer review itself and on its pedagogical significance. {\copyright} Earli.} } @article{pittir15599, volume = {7}, number = {7}, month = {July}, title = {Drosophila heat shock response requires the jnk pathway and phosphorylation of mixed lineage kinase at a conserved serine-proline motif}, author = {RL Gonda and RA Garlena and B Stronach}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15599/}, abstract = {Defining context specific requirements for proteins and pathways is a major challenge in the study of signal transduction. For example, the stress-activated protein kinase (SAPK) pathways are comprised of families of closely related transducers that are activated in a variety of tissues and contexts during development and organismal homeostasis. Consequently, redundant and pleiotropic effects have hampered a complete understanding of the individual contributions of transducers in distinct contexts. Here, we report on the function of a context-specific regulatory phosphorylation site, PXSP, in the Drosophila mixed lineage kinase protein, Slpr, a mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase (MAP3K) in the Jun Kinase (JNK) pathway. Genetic analysis of the function of non-phosphorylatable (PXAP) and phosphomimetic mutant (PXEP) Slpr transgenes in several distinct contexts revealed minimal effects in JNK-dependent tissue closure processes but differential requirements in heat stress response. In particular, PXAP expression resulted in sensitivity of adults to sustained heat shock, like p38 and JNK pathway mutants. In contrast, PXEP overexpression conferred some resistance. Indeed, phosphorylation of the PXSP motif is enriched under heat shock conditions and requires in part, the p38 kinases for the enrichment. These data suggest that coordination of signaling between p38 and Slpr serves to maintain JNK signaling during heat stress. In sum, we demonstrate a novel role for JNK signaling in the heat shock response in flies and identify a posttranslational modification on Slpr, at a conserved site among MAP3K mixed lineage kinase family members, which bolsters stress resistance with negligible effects on JNK-dependent developmental processes. {\copyright} 2012 Gonda et al.} } @incollection{pittir16472, month = {February}, title = {Bounding trust in reputation systems with incomplete information}, author = {Xi Gong and Ting Yu and Adam J Lee}, publisher = {ACM}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16472/} } @unpublished{pittir13110, month = {September}, title = {When is Computerized Continuous Auditing Less Effective at Deterring Fraud?}, author = {George C Gonzalez}, year = {2012}, keywords = {continuous auditing; internal auditing; fraud; fraud triangle; computer credibility; computer-mediated communication}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13110/}, abstract = {Companies use a variety of techniques to deter fraudulent behavior. This study focuses on the fraud deterrent effect of computerized continuous auditing systems. Although continuous auditing systems are almost always computerized in the natural environment, this study reports the results of two experiments that separately examine the effects of continuous versus periodic auditing and manual versus computerized fraud detection. It also examines the relative effects of human versus computer-mediated communication of the audit findings. Consistent with theory from criminology, information systems, and psychology, I find that the effectiveness of a continuous audit approach depends on the actual probability of fraud detection, and that at low levels of fraud detection a continuous audit is actually less effective than a periodic audit in reducing the perceived opportunity to commit fraud. I find no differences based on whether fraud is detected by a manual or computerized system, but find moderate support that face-to-face communication of audit findings creates more discomfort in a potential fraud perpetrator than does computer-mediated feedback. Contrary to my predictions, I do not find that individuals? perceptions translate into corresponding effects on actual fraudulent behavior in my study.} } @article{pittir22466, volume = {1}, number = {1}, author = {Hiroyuki N Good}, title = {From the Chair of the Shashi Group}, publisher = {University Library System, University of Pittsburgh}, journal = {Shashi: The Journal of Japanese Business and Company History}, pages = {1 -- 5}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22466/} } @unpublished{pittir17435, month = {April}, title = {University Libraries are Changing to Encourage More Student Use}, author = {Hiroyuki N Good}, year = {2012}, keywords = {academic, library, user, service, digital, service}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17435/}, abstract = {Dramatic decrease of users in reference services is a trend observed all around the world. Rather than talking with students face to face at the library, we librarians provide virtual reference with email and instant message. On the other hand, there are increasing numbers of students who use libraries as their study rooms, to write papers, and to hold group meetings. The University Library System (ULS) of the University of Pittsburgh is undergoing a change so that students can make more use of information services, libraries? most important function. This paper discus about ULS?s effort to meet users? need and explore new role in the digital age, including introducing PittCat+ as a new online catalog like Google, in class instructions with LibGuides, D-Scribe Digital Publishing as an e-journal publisher, D-Scholarship as university repository, etc.} } @article{pittir17420, number = {2012-2}, month = {February}, author = {Hiroyuki N Good}, editor = {Yoichi Iida}, title = {???????????????????????????[University Libraries are Changing to Encourage More Student Use]}, publisher = {Tokyo University of Science}, year = {2012}, journal = {??????? [Science Forum]}, pages = {18 -- 22}, keywords = {academic, library, user, service, digital, age}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17420/}, abstract = {Dramatic decrease of users in reference services is a trend observed all around the world. Rather than talking with students face to face at the library, we librarians provide virtual reference with email and instant message. On the other hand, there are increasing numbers of students who use libraries as their study rooms, to write papers, and to hold group meetings. The University Library System (ULS) of the University of Pittsburgh is undergoing a change so that students can make more use of information services, libraries? most important function. This paper discus about ULS?s effort to meet users? need and explore new role in the digital age, including introducing PittCat+ as a new online catalog like Google, in class instructions with LibGuides, D-Scribe Digital Publishing as an e-journal publisher, D-Scholarship as university repository, etc.} } @unpublished{pittir12257, month = {July}, title = {FACIAL FORM AS A SUBCLINICAL PHENOTYPE OF NONSYNDROMIC OROFACIAL CLEFTING: AN ANTHROPOMETRIC ANALYSIS}, author = {Suman Gorantla}, year = {2012}, keywords = {GorantlaSuman Thesis ETD 2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12257/}, abstract = {Orofacial clefting (OFC) is the most common craniofacial anomaly, seen in every 1 in 500 to 2500 births worldwide. It has been identified that 60 to 70\% of OFC are non-syndromic (NS) and are not associated with any single genetic marker. However, high recurrence rates of NSOFC have been identified in families. The recurrence risk is predicted on rather empirical data owing to poor gene mapping and poor correlation between genotype and phenotype of this anomaly. Considering the fact that OFC presents with significant etiologic heterogeneity and phenotypic diversity, subclinical manifestations need to be identified to complete the OFC phenotypic spectrum. This will improve correlation between genotype and phenotype and thus improve recurrence risk estimation. A large body of evidence suggests that subtle changes in craniofacial morphology may be a subclinical marker for cleft susceptibility. A vast majority of this evidence is based on cephalometric data with far fewer studies examining soft tissue features of the face. The purpose of the present study is to compare craniofacial characteristics of unaffected biological parents of NS OFC offspring with controls derived from the same population using direct anthropometry. The study sample consisted of 67 male and 76 female unaffected parents of both NS Cleft lip and Cleft lip/palate children. Control sample comprised of 37 normal males and 59 normal females of the same race and ethnicity. Craniofacial measurements of both study and control population were collected using direct anthropometry as was described by Farkas (1994) and Kolar \& Salter (1997) and were subjected to stepwise discriminant functional analysis (DFA). DFA is similar to logistic regression; used to classify population into groups based on covariate variables. In this study discriminant models with high statistical significance (P?0.001) were derived in males and females that could clearly distinguish unaffected parents from controls based on direct anthropometrically measured craniofacial characteristics. The study showed that salient discriminating features are localized to specific regions of the face in a partly gender-specific manner. The study showed that a model derived using a small subset of direct anthropometrically measured craniofacial features can be used to discriminate unaffected parents from the controls.} } @article{pittir29863, volume = {10}, number = {S1}, month = {July}, author = {Mark Gorelik and David Wilson and Stanford Shulman and Raphael Hirsch}, title = {Follistatin like protein (FSTL-1) levels are elevated in acute Kawasaki Disease and may differentiate between patients with and without aneurysm formation}, publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC}, journal = {Pediatric Rheumatology}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29863/} } @unpublished{pittir11851, month = {June}, title = {Metal ion and pH Sensors based on Carbon Nanotubes }, author = {Pingping Gou}, year = {2012}, keywords = {single-walled carbon nanotubes, Noncovalently Modification, polyazomethine, poly(1-aminoanthracene), calmodulin, Bacterioferritin}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11851/}, abstract = {The sensitive and selective detection of metal ions and pH levels is important in environmental and biomedical applications. Conventional methods are limited in their potential due to high cost, big size, and lack of portability. A new system incorporating single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) modified with polymers or proteins has been developed to create a cost-effective, easy-to-use metal ion/pH sensing platform. This system utilized SWNTs modified with metal ion/pH sensitive materials because pristine SWNTs are only sensitive to high concentrations of metal ions ({\ensuremath{>}} 1 mM), and strong base (pH {\ensuremath{>}} 12) or acid (pH {\ensuremath{<}} 2), and lack selectivity as well. This work uses noncovalent functionalization approaches to chemically modify SWNTs because noncovalent modifications do not disrupt SWNT electronic properties. When the modified-SWNT system encounters metal ions or pH solutions, the alteration in modified layers, such as conformational change or charge transfer, initiates signal transduction processes, thus changing the electrical and optical properties of the underlying SWNTs. The properties of modified SWNTs were characterized by a variety of techniques including optical spectroscopy, and electrical transport measurements in solid state or liquid state, through which the transduction mechanism of the system was investigated. The modified SWNT-based metal ion/pH sensors offer promise in applications and provide a platform for fundamental understanding of the transduction mechanism that help us to develop better chemical sensors in the future. } } @article{pittir24123, volume = {366}, number = {3}, month = {January}, author = {ML Gourlay and JP Fine and JS Preisser and RC May and C Li and LY Lui and DF Ransohoff and JA Cauley and KE Ensrud}, title = {Bone-density testing interval and transition to osteoporosis in older women}, journal = {New England Journal of Medicine}, pages = {225 -- 233}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/24123/}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Although bone mineral density (BMD) testing to screen for osteoporosis (BMD T score, -2.50 or lower) is recommended for women 65 years of age or older, there are few data to guide decisions about the interval between BMD tests. METHODS: We studied 4957 women, 67 years of age or older, with normal BMD (T score at the femoral neck and total hip, -1.00 or higher) or osteopenia (T score, -1.01 to -2.49) and with no history of hip or clinical vertebral fracture or of treatment for osteoporosis, followed prospectively for up to 15 years. The BMD testing interval was defined as the estimated time for 10\% of women to make the transition to osteoporosis before having a hip or clinical vertebral fracture, with adjustment for estrogen use and clinical risk factors. Transitions from normal BMD and from three subgroups of osteopenia (mild, moderate, and advanced) were analyzed with the use of parametric cumulative incidence models. Incident hip and clinical vertebral fractures and initiation of treatment with bisphosphonates, calcitonin, or raloxifene were treated as competing risks. RESULTS: The estimated BMD testing interval was 16.8 years (95\% confidence interval [CI], 11.5 to 24.6) for women with normal BMD, 17.3 years (95\% CI, 13.9 to 21.5) for women with mild osteopenia, 4.7 years (95\% CI, 4.2 to 5.2) for women with moderate osteopenia, and 1.1 years (95\% CI, 1.0 to 1.3) for women with advanced osteopenia. CONCLUSIONS: Our data indicate that osteoporosis would develop in less than 10\% of older, postmenopausal women during rescreening intervals of approximately 15 years for women with normal bone density or mild osteopenia, 5 years for women with moderate osteopenia, and 1 year for women with advanced osteopenia. (Funded by the National Institutes of Health.) Copyright {\copyright} 2012 Massachusetts Medical Society.} } @unpublished{pittir13261, month = {September}, title = {Building Ice-Age Askja: Processes, Products, and Paleoclimate}, author = {Alison Graettinger}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Iceland; volcanology; magma-ice interaction; basalt; geologic mapping}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13261/}, abstract = {Austurfj{\"o}ll is the largest glaciovolcanic construct at Askja Volcano, the best exposed and largest basaltic central volcano in Iceland. The massif records the repeated interaction of basaltic fissure-dominated eruptions with a 600-900 m thick Pleistocene ice sheet in Iceland. The Austurfj{\"o}ll deposits serve as an important proxy record for ice presence and thickness, supplementing the limited terrestrial glacial record in Iceland. The model of the construction of the 3.62 km3 glaciovolcanic massif is the first to outline in detail and date the growth and evolution of a long-lived polygenetic ice-confined central volcano. The model is based on lithologic descriptions, petrologic investigations, textural studies, unspiked K-Ar dating, volatile saturation pressures based on FTIR analysis of water content in glass, and remote sensing-based mapping. The massif is composed of basal basaltic pillow lava sheets, dominantly subaqueously-deposited vitriclastic deposits erupted from overlapping fissure ridges, and accumulations of gravity-driven deposits in inter-ridge depositional centers. The ridges are locally capped by emergent to subaerial tephra and subaerial lava flows. Detailed textural studies of sequences of in-situ transitions from pillow lavas through breccias to overlying lapilli tuffs are interpreted as examples of phreatomagmatic explosions triggered by initial magmatic exsolution and fragmentation at water depths {\ensuremath{>}} 600 m. A stratigraphy for Austurfj{\"o}ll is established and consists of one interglacial unit, six glaciovolcanic units, and two glaciogenic sedimentary units established through chemostratigraphy and field mapping. Eruptive units are numbered chronologically, with glacial units designated Dm: Unit 1 (A and B), Dm1, Unit 2, Dm2, Unit 3, Unit 4, Unit 5, Unit 6 and Unit 7. Diamictite deposits and emergent facies are described for the first time at Austurfj{\"o}ll. Two eruptive units were dated radiogenically by unspiked K-Ar methods to 71 +/- 7 ka (Unit 2) and 29 +/- 8 ka (Unit 3). Ice presence is inferred from glacial, subaerial, and subglacial lithofacies including coherent margined volcaniclastic dikes (CMVDs) that are interpreted as the result of basaltic intrusions into ice-cemented sediments. The deposits described from Austurfj{\"o}ll reflect a history of interglacial, ice-confined subaqueous, subglacial and emergent eruptions with a dynamic Pleistocene ice sheet over at least 40 ka.} } @article{pittir17861, volume = {13}, number = {1}, author = {Gregory Peter Graham}, title = {Storm fronts and filmmaking: cloud computing regulation and the impact on independent filmmakers}, publisher = {University Library System, University of Pittsburgh}, journal = {Pittsburgh Journal of Technology law and Policy}, pages = {1 -- 15}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17861/}, abstract = {The rise of cloud computing has begun to transform media technology and wider industries. No longer constrained by the relative size of their server network or budget limitations, businesses are taking advantage of cloud computing?s promise to access previously unimaginable computing resources. The film industry in particular has taken advantage of the increased capabilities offered by cloud computing. This recognition has begun a transformation that has spread from major Hollywood studios to smaller independent production companies. Major studios are turning to cloud providers for the creation of Computer Generated Image (CGI) blockbusters, while independent filmmakers are taking advantage of cloud computing?s low costs to create and distribute their films. This resulting ?democratization of the film industry? has resulted in a trend towards more independent films being released since 2002.} } @unpublished{pittir16769, month = {December}, title = {Cues from the extracellular space: matrix proteins regulate melanoma invasion}, author = {Jelena Grahovac}, year = {2012}, keywords = {melanoma, extracellular matrix, tenascin c, decorin, migration, adhesion, ROCK}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16769/}, abstract = {Melanoma is the most aggressive type of skin cancer with increasing incidence rates. To date, there are no effective therapies that can ensure disease free or even progression free survival of melanoma patients. While early stage primary melanoma is curable by surgical resection, survival of patients with metastatic melanoma is measured in months. Therefore it is of utmost importance to decipher molecular events that precede and/or induce the switch towards the invasive melanoma phenotype. In pursue of efficient therapy, attention has to be given not only to the cancer cells themselves but also to the microenvironment that nurtures and promotes malignant behavior. Aggressive melanoma cells drastically remodel their microenvironment. We found that expression of two extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins was significantly altered in melanoma compared to uninvolved patient skin: Tenascin C (TNC) was markedly increased, while small proteoglycan Decorin (DCN) was decreased. We found that invasion of the melanoma cells correlates with TNC expression levels and that cells present TNC asymmetrically at the invasive fronts. We also found that Epidermal Growth Factor-Like (EGFL) repeats of TNC promote melanoma cell invasiveness by activating Rho-associated kinase and increasing cell contractility, thus allowing mesenchymal to amoeboidal switch in mode of migration. Interestingly, TNC and DCN have both been shown to affect signaling through Epidermal Growth Factor receptor (EGFR), but with opposite outcomes on cell proliferation, migration and survival. We adapted skin organ cultures to test the influence of these two proteins on melanoma invasion and found that DCN can ameliorate TNC induced melanoma invasion. Taken together, our findings imply that ECM composition has a significant role in the regulation of melanoma invasiveness and that even in the presence of increased pro-invasive TNC signaling DCN can be a promising moiety for melanoma therapy.} } @article{pittir21360, volume = {32}, number = {1}, month = {January}, author = {BS Grandstaff and JB Smith and MC Lamanna and KJ Lacovara and MS Abdel-Ghani}, title = {Bawitius, gen. nov., a giant polypterid (Osteichthyes, Actinopterygii) from the Upper Cretaceous Bahariya Formation of Egypt}, journal = {Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology}, pages = {17 -- 26}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/21360/}, abstract = {A newly discovered osteichthyan ectopterygoid from the Upper Cretaceous (lower Cenomanian) Bahariya Formation of the Bahariya Oasis, Egypt, is nearly identical to the holotypic specimen of Polypterus? bartheli from the same area and geologic unit. The Bahariya ectopterygoids are referable to Polypteridae based on the presence of a robust, laterally directed process that articulates with the maxilla. Additionally, ganoid scales from the Bahariya Formation have an isopedine layer, a histological character of Polypteriformes; but differ from those of previously described members of this clade in having a discontinuous ganoin layer, rectilinear shape, and proportionally small articular processes. Both the ectopterygoids and the scales are unusually large, and are the only polypteriform remains so far identified from the Bahariya Formation. The ectopterygoids and (tentatively) the scales are herein assigned to a single species of gigantic polypterid, the morphology of which is sufficiently distinctive to warrant its placement in a new genus, Bawitius, gen. nov. Differences in scale anatomy and the enormous disparity in body size between Bawitius and Serenoichthys support the hypothesis (originally proposed on the basis of varied fin spine morphologies) that a diversity of polypterid fishes inhabited North Africa during the early Late Cretaceous. {\copyright} 2012 Copyright Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.} } @article{pittir12717, volume = {7}, number = {5}, month = {May}, title = {Mitochondrial structure, function and dynamics are temporally controlled by c-Myc}, author = {JA Graves and Y Wang and S Sims-Lucas and E Cherok and K Rothermund and MF Branca and J Elster and D Beer-Stolz and B van Houten and J Vockley and EV Prochownik}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12717/}, abstract = {Although the c-Myc (Myc) oncoprotein controls mitochondrial biogenesis and multiple enzymes involved in oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), the coordination of these events and the mechanistic underpinnings of their regulation remain largely unexplored. We show here that re-expression of Myc in myc-/- fibroblasts is accompanied by a gradual accumulation of mitochondrial biomass and by increases in membrane polarization and mitochondrial fusion. A correction of OXPHOS deficiency is also seen, although structural abnormalities in electron transport chain complexes (ETC) are not entirely normalized. Conversely, the down-regulation of Myc leads to a gradual decrease in mitochondrial mass and a more rapid loss of fusion and membrane potential. Increases in the levels of proteins specifically involved in mitochondrial fission and fusion support the idea that Myc affects mitochondrial mass by influencing both of these processes, albeit favoring the latter. The ETC defects that persist following Myc restoration may represent metabolic adaptations, as mitochondrial function is re-directed away from producing ATP to providing a source of metabolic precursors demanded by the transformed cell. {\copyright} 2012 Graves et al.} } @unpublished{pittir11839, month = {June}, title = {NEGOTIATING RACE TALK: HOW WHITES HIDE RACIAL PRIVILEGE AND STRUCTURAL INEQUALITY }, author = {Kathleen Gray}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Race, Racism, Focus Groups, Discourse, Privilege, Whiteness, Inequality }, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11839/}, abstract = {In this descriptive and explanatory study, I analyze interactions among whites to determine if and how their discussions of race shape the contemporary racial ideology underpinning white privilege. In eight two-hour self-moderated focus groups, participants routinely attempted to build a coherent theory to explain why some whites are more racist than others. I demonstrate how participants used their stories about other whites? racist remarks to assess competing explanations for racism. Participants also built theories of intersectionality that emphasize racist whites? lack of nonracial forms of privilege, such as education or life experience. This process reinforced a depiction of racism void of any consideration of white privilege. This process also enabled participants to dismiss their own overwhelming evidence of the prevalence of racist beliefs and actions. In addition to discussing white racists, participants routinely compared stories about people of color whom they personally knew or had observed. As they negotiated the implications of these stories, participants linked racial status to behavior in ways that portrayed white privilege as an earned status. By combining their stories about people of color participants also hid the extent to which they were socially segregated from and ignorant about the lives of people of color. Through talk, they reinforced a depiction of racial inequality void of any consideration of structural forces. Although all groups demonstrated these dominant patterns, participants occasionally introduced and maintained a structural analysis of white racial privilege and racial inequality. I analyze these deviations and conclude with a discussion of how this study can inform community based antiracism work, social policy, and the teaching of structural, critical, and antiracist interpretations of race/racism.} } @unpublished{pittir10876, month = {January}, title = {Endogenous DNA damage drives cellular senescence and promotes aging}, author = {Siobhan Gregg}, year = {2012}, keywords = {cell biology, aging, DNA damage}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10876/}, abstract = {Global populations are shifting, and the number of individuals over the age of 60 is rapidly increasing. People of advanced age ({\ensuremath{>}}60 years old) are at risk for several chronic degenerative diseases. In order to improve the quality of life for the elderly living with age-associated diseases, and to minimize medical costs associated with an aging global population, it is critical to understand the molecular mechanisms that underlie aging. Aging is characterized as the loss of tissue function and the decreased ability to maintain homeostasis, which leads to an increased risk of morbidity and mortality. The time-dependent accumulation of damage to cellular macromolecules is hypothesized to contribute to age-related decline. However, there is no consensus about the type(s) of damage that drive aging. There is evidence to support the hypothesis that DNA damage plays a causative role in aging. This includes mice and humans with defective DNA repair that exhibit symptoms of accelerated aging. Additionally, DNA damage can induce cellular senescence, and senescent cells are thought to contribute to age-associated functional decline. However, direct causal relationships between senescence and aging, and DNA damage and aging have yet to be established. The overall goal of this thesis was to address these gaps in knowledge. This required the testing of two hypotheses. First, that the accelerated aging seen as a consequence of defects in DNA repair is similar to normal aging at the molecular, cellular and whole tissue level. Second, that spontaneous DNA damage that occurs in cells is sufficient to drive cellular senescence. To test these hypotheses, I employed a genetic approach, utilizing mice and primary cells that were engineered to be defective in the DNA repair endonuclease, ERCC1-XPF. Hence, mice and cells with reduced expression of ERCC1-XPF accumulate a variety of DNA lesions compared to wild type mice and cells. This thesis is divided into two main sections, which take an in vivo and in vitro approach to testing the hypothesis that endogenous DNA damage can promote aging. } } @article{pittir17862, volume = {13}, number = {1}, author = {Peter Andrew Groh}, title = {Through a router darkly: how new American copyright enforcement initiatives may hinder economic development, net neutrality and creativity}, publisher = {University Library System, University of Pittsburgh}, journal = {Pittsburgh Journal of Technology law and Policy}, pages = {1 -- 18}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17862/}, abstract = {On November 1, 2012, Russia enacted a law putatively aiming to protect Russian children from pedophiles. This law authorizes deep packet inspection (DPI), a method used for monitoring, filtering and shaping internet traffic, which has heightened concerns among many leading privacy groups. These groups are concerned with how the government will use such an intrusive method in prosecuting child predators. Central to this concern is DPI?s capability to allow the Russian government to peer into any citizens? unencrypted internet traffic and monitor, copy, or even alter the traffic as it moves to its destination. The unresolved question is whether the government?s use of DPI will be restrained and utilized primarily to thwart child predators, or whether it will be expanded to lay the groundwork for a new era of national censorship. Although the United States has not yet adopted similar tactics in regulating its citizens? internet use, Russia?s implementation of the new DPI monitoring and filtering system will provide an educational opportunity for both privacy advocates and policymakers.} } @unpublished{pittir6189, month = {January}, title = {Effects of multiple stressors on the dynamics of a fungal pathogen associated with global amphibian declines}, author = {Maya L Groner}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Amphibian declines, Environmental immunosuppression, Healthy Herds, Antimicrobial peptides, disease ecology, ecoimmunology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/6189/}, abstract = {Within the biological sciences there is increasing interest in understanding how ecological context alters host-pathogen interactions. Incidences of emerging infectious diseases (EIDs) are increasing around the globe with devastating impacts on many taxonomic groups. This trend is thought to result, in part, from increased frequency or intensity of interactions with stressors that facilitate the spread of a pathogen or increase its virulence. The mechanisms underlying these interactions are poorly understood. This thesis explored how the stress of predators, competitors, and the insecticide malathion alter interactions between the fungal pathogen (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, Bd) and two of its amphibian hosts (Rana sylvatica and R. pipiens). Malathion is a widely-used insecticide that has been implicated amphibian declines. I examined how these interactions altered traits associated with within-host interactions (immune responses) and between-host interactions (life history, survival and behavior). More than 200 amphibian species suffer from the EID caused by Bd, and the results of this study suggest that natural environmental stressors can alter patterns of infection. Sublethal exposure to predators caused decreases in releases of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) from the skin. AMPs are an important defense against infection. The extent of this effect depended on the timing of exposure to predators as well as the length of exposure. In addition, AMPs were also more concentrated in high competition environments. This may be an adaptive response to increased risk of infection by pathogens with density-dependent transmission. Predation would also be expected to reduce disease incidence. Tadpoles infected with Bd were more active than uninfected and resistant tadpoles, suggesting that they would be more susceptible to predation by visually-cued predators. In contrast, resistant tadpoles were the least active, making them most likely to avoid detection by predators. While the pesticide malathion had no effect on susceptibility to Bd infection or antimicrobial peptide releases, a separate study showed that it and other pesticides in the same class (acetylcholine esterase inhibitors) can alter survival and life history trajectories of amphibians through direct toxic effects and indirectly through trait- and density-mediated trophic cascades. Overall these results suggest that environmental context can have complex effects on host-pathogen interactions.} } @unpublished{pittir10875, month = {January}, title = {Bilingual Education in the United States: An Analysis of the Convergence of Policy, Theory and Research }, author = {Andrea Grooms}, year = {2012}, keywords = {bilingual education, policy analysis, second language acquisition, bilingual education act, language ideology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10875/}, abstract = {Bilingual education policy in the United States public school system has a long-standing social and political history plagued by a forty-year debate about its goals and effectiveness. Policy has been informed by theory aimed at identifying best methods to provide English instruction to English Language Learners (ELLs), and research on bilingual education program effectiveness. However, perceptions about language based on cultural and political values have also played a considerable role, and fuel the national debate. On one side of this debate, critics argue bilingual education hinders ELLs? ability to assimilate and rapidly acquire the dominant language of the US. Proponents of bilingual education, on the other hand, see it as an enrichment program, benefiting both ELLs and native English speakers cognitively and politically within an increasingly globalized context. This study examines the forces (second language acquisition theory in bilingual education, research on program effectiveness, the history of bilingual education policy-making, and the influence of language ideology) comprising bilingual education, with the outcome being twofold. The first is to dispel common misperceptions perpetuated within the debate about bilingual education by unearthing the multiplicities of it through qualitative reviews of each component lending itself to the phenomenon. Second, to illustrate how policy-making is encompassed by language ideologies as evidenced particularly within bilingual education policy shifts over the past forty-years. The reviews in this study are designed to provide policy-makers and educators with a comprehensive account of bilingual education to improve and inform decision making about its future. The findings of these analyses suggest ideologically founded policy have led to legislation lacking alignment with theory and research demonstrating evidence of bilingual education program effectiveness.} } @unpublished{pittir10865, month = {January}, title = {SUCCESS AND SUSTAINABILITY OF HUMAN SERVICES MODELS TRANSFERRED TRANSNATIONALLY: A MODEL FOR TRANSFER AND FIVE CASE STUDIES}, author = {Andrea Gruber}, year = {2012}, keywords = {technology transfer, human services, implementation, NGOs, sustainability, Central and Eastern Europe}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10865/}, abstract = {This dissertation examines the success and sustainability of international transfers of human services models in five NGOs in Hungary. In the transitional democracies of Central and Eastern Europe an increasing number of NGOs have claimed their place in social service provision. Supported by an influx of foreign aid, they have often looked for models outside their countries. These initiatives have often survived only while the external funding was available. Drawing on the literature of technology transfer, evidence-based practices, implementation, and international development, this exploratory case study examines the characteristics and defining attributes of success/sustainability of model transfer and five contributing variables of the social aspect: 1) Identification of Need, 2) Values and Philosophy, 3) Investment in People, 4) Business Approach, 5) Management and Evaluation. Using key informant interviews, a survey, and document reviews it documents and critically examines the experiences and views of personnel at five Hungarian NGOs. The research findings reveal that the main differentiating factor in the success of the model transfer is the importing NGO?s focus on the model, the organization, and its relationship with the exporting NGO during the early years of the model transfer. Intentionally managing the differences that arose from the dissimilar cultural contexts and value sets of the source and the destination countries is also shown to be a critical factor. The importing NGO?s focus on the ?just manageable? quantities of work in dealing with the operating environment has relevance in other areas in the international development field. The study also identifies and finds support for the factors that contribute to the success of model transfers, and it operationalizes the ?socio? aspect of the transfer process, which will allow for the development of a testable framework of transnational model transfers.} } @article{pittir29966, volume = {7}, number = {1}, month = {January}, title = {Clinical and neurocognitive outcome in symptomatic isovaleric acidemia}, author = {SC Gr{\"u}nert and U Wendel and M Lindner and M Leichsenring and KO Schwab and J Vockley and W Lehnert and R Ensenauer}, year = {2012}, journal = {Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29966/}, abstract = {Background: Despite its first description over 40 years ago, knowledge of the clinical course of isovaleric acidemia (IVA), a disorder predisposing to severe acidotic episodes during catabolic stress, is still anecdotal. We aimed to investigate the phenotypic presentation and factors determining the neurological and neurocognitive outcomes of patients diagnosed with IVA following clinical manifestation. Methods. Retrospective data on 21 children and adults with symptomatic IVA diagnosed from 1976 to 1999 were analyzed for outcome determinants including age at diagnosis and number of catabolic episodes. Sixteen of 21 patients were evaluated cross-sectionally focusing on the neurological and neurocognitive status. Additionally, 155 cases of patients with IVA published in the international literature were reviewed and analyzed for outcome parameters including mortality. Results: 57\% of study patients (12/21) were diagnosed within the first weeks of life and 43\% (9/21) in childhood. An acute metabolic attack was the main cause of diagnostic work-up. 44\% of investigated study patients (7/16) showed mild motor dysfunction and only 19\% (3/16) had cognitive deficits. No other organ complications were found. The patients' intelligence quotient was not related to the number of catabolic episodes but was inversely related to age at diagnosis. In published cases, mortality was high (33\%) if associated with neonatal diagnosis, following manifestation at an average age of 7 days. Conclusions: Within the group of "classical" organic acidurias, IVA appears to be exceptional considering its milder neuropathologic implications. The potential to avoid neonatal mortality and to improve neurologic and cognitive outcome under early treatment reinforces IVA to be qualified for newborn screening. {\copyright} 2012 Gr{\"u}nert et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir18903, volume = {41}, number = {2}, month = {April}, author = {TE Guadamuz and SH Lim and MP Marshal and MS Friedman and RD Stall and AJ Silvestre}, title = {Sexual, behavioral, and quality of life characteristics of healthy weight, overweight, and obese gay and bisexual men: Findings from a prospective cohort study}, journal = {Archives of Sexual Behavior}, pages = {385 -- 389}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18903/}, abstract = {While there have been attempts to explore the association of obesity and risky sexual behaviors among gay men, findings have been conflicting. Using a prospective cohort of gay and bisexual men residing in Pittsburgh, we performed a semi-parametric, group-based analysis to identify distinct groups of trajectories in body mass index slopes over time from 1999 to 2007 and then correlated these trajectories with a number of psychosocial and behavioral factors, including sexual behaviors. We found many men were either overweight (41.2\%) or obese (10.9\%) in 1999 and remained stable at these levels over time, in contrast to recent increasing trends in the general population. Correlates of obesity in our study replicated findings from the general population. However, we found no significant association between obesity and sexual risk-taking behaviors, as suggested from several cross-sectional studies of gay men. While there was not a significant association between obesity and sexual risk-taking behaviors, we found high prevalence of overweight and obesity in this population. Gay and bisexual men's health researchers and practitioners need to look beyond HIV and STI prevention and also address a broader range of health concerns important to this population. {\copyright} 2011 Springer Science+Business Media, LLC.} } @article{pittir29874, volume = {9}, month = {June}, title = {Neuronal apoptosis by HIV-1 Vpr: contribution of proinflammatory molecular networks from infected target cells}, author = {D Guha and P Nagilla and C Redinger and A Srinivasan and GP Schatten and V Ayyavoo}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of Neuroinflammation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29874/}, abstract = {Background: Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) induces neuronal dysfunction through host cellular factors and viral proteins including viral protein R (Vpr) released from infected macrophages/microglia. Vpr is important for infection of terminally differentiated cells such as macrophages. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of Vpr in the context of infectious virus particles on neuronal death through proinflammatory cytokines released from macrophages.Methods: Monocyte-derived macrophages (MDM) were infected with either HIV-1 wild type (HIV-1wt), Vpr deleted mutant (HIV-1\{increment\}Vpr) or mock. Cell lysates and culture supernatants from MDMs were analyzed for the expression and release of proinflammatory cytokines by quantitative reverse transcription-PCR and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay respectively. Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) were analyzed in activated MDMs by western blots. Further, the effect of Vpr on neuronal apoptosis was examined using primary neurons exposed to culture supernatants from HIV-1wt, HIV-1\{increment\}Vpr or mock-infected MDMs by Annexin-V staining, MTT and Caspase - Glo? 3/7 assays. The role of interleukin (IL)-1{\ensuremath{\beta}}, IL-8 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-{\ensuremath{\alpha}} on neuronal apoptosis was also evaluated in the presence or absence of neutralizing antibodies against these cytokines.Results: HIV-1\{increment\}Vpr-infected MDMs exhibited reduced infection over time and specifically a significant downregulation of IL-1{\ensuremath{\beta}}, IL-8 and TNF-{\ensuremath{\alpha}} at the transcriptional and/or protein levels compared to HIV-1wt-infected cultures. This downregulation was due to impaired activation of p38 and stress-activated protein kinase (SAPK)/c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) in HIV-1\{increment\}Vpr-infected MDMs. The association of SAPK/JNK and p38 to IL-1{\ensuremath{\beta}} and IL-8 production was confirmed by blocking MAPKs that prevented the elevation of IL-1{\ensuremath{\beta}} and IL-8 in HIV-1wt more than in HIV-1\{increment\}Vpr-infected cultures. Supernatants from HIV-1\{increment\}Vpr-infected MDMs containing lower concentrations of IL-1{\ensuremath{\beta}}, IL-8 and TNF-{\ensuremath{\alpha}} as well as viral proteins showed a reduced neurotoxicity compared to HIV-1wt-infected MDM supernatants. Reduction of neuronal death in the presence of anti-IL-1{\ensuremath{\beta}} and anti-IL-8 antibodies only in HIV-1wt-infected culture implies that the effect of Vpr on neuronal death is in part mediated through released proinflammatory factors.Conclusion: Collectively, these results demonstrate the ability of HIV-1\{increment\}Vpr to restrict neuronal apoptosis through dysregulation of multiple proinflammatory cytokines in the infected target cells either directly or indirectly by suppressing viral replication. {\copyright} 2012 Guha et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir6211, month = {February}, title = {SCALABLE PROCESSING OF MULTIPLE AGGREGATE CONTINUOUS QUERIES}, author = {Shenoda Guirguis}, year = {2012}, note = {secondary email: shenoda.work@gmail.com}, keywords = {Data Streams Management Systems, Continuous Queries, Query Optimization, Scal- able Processing, Aggregation, AQSIOS, Weaveability.}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/6211/}, abstract = {Data Stream Management Systems (DSMSs) were developed to be at the heart of every monitor- ing application. Monitoring applications typically register hundreds of Continuous Queries (CQs) in DSMSs in order to continuously process unbounded data streams to detect events of interest. DSMSs must be designed to efficiently handle unbounded streams with large volumes of data and large numbers of CQs, i.e., exhibit scalability. This need for scalability means that the underlying processing techniques a DSMS adopts should be optimized for high throughput (i.e., tuple output rate). Towards this, two main approaches were proposed in the literature: (1) Multiple Query Opti- mization (MQO) and (2) Scheduling. In this dissertation we focus on optimizing the processing of multiple Aggregate Continuous Queries (ACQs), given their high processing cost and popularity in all monitoring applications. Specifically, in this dissertation, we explore shared processing of ACQs and introduce the con- cept of ?Weaveability? as an indicator of the potential gains of sharing the processing of ACQs. We develop Weave Share, a multiple ACQs optimizer that considers the different uncorrelated factors of the processing cost, such as the input rate and ACQs? specifications. In order to fully reap the benefits of the new weave-based optimization techniques, we conceptualize a new underlying ag- gregate operator implementation and realize it in the TriOps framework. TriOps enables adaptive sharing of multiple ACQs that have different window specification, predicates and group-by at- tributes. The properties of the proposed techniques are studied analytically and their performance advantages are experimentally evaluated using simulation and in the context of the AQSIOS DSMS prototype.} } @unpublished{pittir11743, month = {June}, title = {Discrimination of Bedform Scales Using Robust Spline Filters and Wavelet Transforms: Methods and Application to Synthetic Signals and the Rio Parana, Argentina}, author = {Ronald R. Gutierrez}, year = {2012}, keywords = {River bedforms, wavelet analysis}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11743/}, abstract = {Currently, there is no standard nomenclature and procedure to systematically identify the scale and magnitude of bedforms such as bars, dunes and ripples that are commonly present in many sedimentary environments. This thesis proposes a standardization of the nomenclature and symbolic representation of bedforms, and details the combined application of robust spline filters and continuous wavelet transforms to discriminate these morphodynamic features, namely bedform hierarchies (BHs). The proposed methodology for bedform discrimination is applied to synthetic bedform signals, which are sampled at a Nyquist ratio interval of 5 to 100 and a signal-to-noise ratio interval of 1 to 20, and to a detailed 3D bed survey of the Rio Parana, Argentina, which exhibits large-scale dune bedforms with superimposed, smaller bedforms. After discriminating the synthetic bedform signals into 3 BHs that represent bars, dunes and ripples, the accuracy of the methodology is quantified by estimating the reproducibility, the cross correlation and the standard deviation ratio of the actual and retrieved signals. For the case of the field measurements, the proposed method is used to discriminate small and large dunes; and subsequently, obtain and statistically analyze the common morphological descriptors such as wavelength, slope, and amplitude for both stoss and lee sides of these different size bedforms. The analysis of the synthetic signals demonstrates that the Morlet wavelet function is the most efficient in retrieving smaller periodicities such as ripples and that the proposed methodology effectively discriminate the waves of different periodicities scales for Nyquist ratios higher than 50 and signal-to-noise ratios. The analysis of the bedforms of the Parana River reveals that in most cases, a Gamma probability distribution (with a positive skewness) best describes the dimensionless wavelength and amplitude for both the lee and stoss sides of large dunes. For the case of the smaller superimposed dunes, the dimensionless wavelength shows a discrete behavior governed by the sampling frequency of the data, and the dimensionless amplitude better fits the Gamma probability distribution, again with a positive skewness.} } @article{pittir16006, volume = {72}, number = {4}, month = {April}, author = {FX Guyette and H Gomez and B Suffoletto and J Quintero and J Mesquida and HK Kim and D Hostler and JC Puyana and MR Pinsky}, title = {Prehospital dynamic tissue oxygen saturation response predicts in-hospital lifesaving interventions in trauma patients}, journal = {Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery}, pages = {930 -- 935}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16006/}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Tissue oximetry (StO 2) plus a vascular occlusion test is a noninvasive technology that targets indices of oxygen uptake and delivery. We hypothesize that prehospital tissue oximetric values and vascular occlusion test response can predict the need for in-hospital lifesaving interventions (LSI). METHODS: We conducted a prospective, blinded observational study to evaluate StO 2 slopes to predict the need for LSI. We calculated the DeO 2 slope using Pearson's coefficients of regression (r 2) for the first 25\% of descent and the ReO 2 slope using the entire recovery interval. The primary outcome was LSI defined as the need for emergent operation or transfusion in the first 24 hours of hospitalization. We created multivariable logistic regression models using covariates of age, sex, vital signs, lactate, and mental status. RESULTS: We assessed StO 2 in a convenience sample of 150 trauma patients from April to November of 2009. In-hospital mortality was 3\% (95\% confidence interval [CI], 1.1-7.6); 31\% (95\% CI, 24-39) were admitted to the intensive care unit, 6\% (95\% CI, 2.8 -11.1) had an emergent operation, and 10\% (95\% CI, 5.7-15.9) required transfusion. Decreasing DeO 2 was associated with a higher proportion of patients requiring LSI. In the multivariate model, the association between the need for LSI and DeO 2, Glasgow Coma Scale, and age persists. CONCLUSION: Prehospital DeO 2 is associated with need for LSI in our trauma population. Further study of DeO 2 is warranted to determine whether it can be used as an adjunct triage criterion or an endpoint for resuscitation. Copyright {\copyright} 2012 by Lippincott Williams \& Wilkins.} } @article{pittir16008, volume = {178}, number = {1}, month = {November}, author = {H G{\'o}mez and J Mesquida and L Hermus and P Polanco and HK Kim and S Zenker and A Torres and R Namas and Y Vodovotz and G Clermont and JC Puyana and MR Pinsky}, title = {Physiologic responses to severe hemorrhagic shock and the genesis of cardiovascular collapse: Can irreversibility be anticipated?}, journal = {Journal of Surgical Research}, pages = {358 -- 369}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16008/}, abstract = {Background: The causes of cardiovascular collapse (CC) during hemorrhagic shock (HS) are unknown. We hypothesized that vascular tone loss characterizes CC, and that arterial pulse pressure/stroke volume index ratio or vascular tone index (VTI) would identify CC. Methods: Fourteen Yorkshire-Durock pigs were bled to 30 mmHg mean arterial pressure and held there by repetitive bleeding until rendered unable to compensate (CC) or for 90 min (NoCC). They were then resuscitated in equal parts to shed volume and observed for 2 h. CC was defined as a MAP {\ensuremath{<}} 30 mmHg for 10 min or {\ensuremath{<}}20 mmHg for 10 s. Study variables were recorded at baseline (B0), 30, 60, 90 min after bleeding and at resuscitation (R0), 30, and 60 min afterward. Results: Swine were bled to 32\% {$\pm$} 9\% of total blood volume. Epinephrine (Epi) and VTI were low and did not change in NoCC after bleeding compared with CC swine, in which both increased (0.97 {$\pm$} 0.22 to 2.57 {$\pm$} 1.42 mcg/dL, and 173 {$\pm$} 181 to 939 {$\pm$} 474 mmHg/mL, respectively), despite no differences in bled volume. Lactate increase rate (LIR) increased with hemorrhage and was higher at R0 for CC, but did not vary in NoCC. VTI identified CC from NoCC and survivors from non-survivors before CC. A large increase in LIR was coincident with VTI decrement before CC occurred. Conclusions: Vasodilatation immediately prior to CC in severe HS occurs at the same time as an increase in LIR, suggesting loss of tone as the mechanism causing CC, and energy failure as its probable cause. {\copyright} 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.} } @unpublished{pittir13041, month = {September}, title = {Disease Progression in HIV-1 and the Role of Polymorphisms in the VPR Gene}, author = {Kevin Hadi}, year = {2012}, keywords = {HIV-1 Disease Progression LTNP Vpr Polymorphism Mutation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13041/}, abstract = {Disease progression in individuals infected with human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) normally consists of a decline of the host immunity into acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS); this is a topic of great public health significance with the rapidly increasing prevalence of HIV-1 infected individuals. However 5\% of the infected population resist AIDS development and remain asymptomatic. These so called long term non progressors (LTNPs) control the virus and are able to mount an effective immunological response. The role of the HIV accessory gene, Vpr, in differential disease progression is addressed in this study. For this purpose sequences identified from LTNPs and progressors (RP) from the HIV database from Los Alamos National Laboratories were analyzed to find signature polymorphisms in the amino acid sequence of this protein. Several mutations in the coding sequence of Vpr were found to be associated with the LTNPs, in particular, the threonine at position 19 mutated to alanine (T19A) and arginine at position 90 mutated to asparagine (R90N). In contrast the following mutations were found to be associated with RPs, arginine at position 36 mutated to tryptophan (R36W), leucine at position 68 mutated to methionine (L68M), and arginine at position 85 mutated to tyrosine (R85Y). A series of in vitro assays show that mainly the RP-associated mutations exhibit changes in several canonical functions of Vpr, namely, its capacity to oligomerize, localize to the nucleus, and induce G2 cell cycle arrest. However, infecting peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) with viruses harboring these Vpr mutations demonstrates no difference in the replication capacity of the mutants compared to wild type virus. This study provides a basis to further delineate the mechanisms of Vpr function in disease progression.} } @unpublished{pittir17091, month = {January}, title = {Surveillance of Demographic Characteristics and Self-Reported Risk Factors of Cardiovascular Disease in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, 2009-2010}, school = {University of Pittsburgh}, author = {Eleanor K Hagerman}, publisher = {University of Pittsburgh}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17091/}, abstract = {Objectives: First, to analyze the prevalence of myocardial infarctions, coronary heart disease, and stroke in Allegheny County in 2002-2010 and compare these estimates in relation to those of Pennsylvania state and nationwide. Second, to obtain the prevalence of cardiovascular disease and cardiovascular disease risk factors among respondents with and without cardiovascular disease in Allegheny County for 2009-2010. Third, to detect differences in cardiovascular disease risk factor prevalence between males and females. Study Design: Data collected from the 5,442 respondents making up the Allegheny County Health Survey, a telephone survey modeled after the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey (BRFSS), was analyzed. Methods: Prevalence of cardiovascular disease risk factors were obtained from chi-square analysis with corresponding confidence intervals and p-values. Results: Stroke prevalence was 1\% higher in Allegheny County compared to Pennsylvania and nationwide data from 2002-2010. For the 2009-2010 year, the prevalence of cardiovascular disease in Allegheny County was 10\%. The majority of adults with cardiovascular disease were older than 65 years of age (54\%), had never obtained a college degree (84\%), and earned less than \$50,000 in annual income (76\%). Overweight and obese adults made up 72\% of all adults with cardiovascular disease, 32\% had diabetes, 47\% were heavy drinkers, 69\% had hypertension, and 62\% had high cholesterol. Males and females with cardiovascular disease had comparable diabetes (68\% in females and 69\% in males), high cholesterol (40\% in females and 37\% in males), and health care access (89\% in females and 90\% in males). Black females (17\%) were more than twice as likely to have cardiovascular disease than black males (8\%). More females with cardiovascular disease had never smoked before compared to males (39\% versus 26\%), were more likely to have hypertension (36\% versus 27\%), and were less likely to take aspirin daily or every other day (68\% versus 77\%). Conclusions: Cardiovascular disease is higher in Allegheny County than nationwide and is of public health significance. Public health interventions should be targeted to decrease traditional cardiovascular disease risk factors such as obesity, high cholesterol, and hypertension. However, gender-specific interventions should also be considered.} } @article{pittir15899, volume = {7}, number = {9}, month = {September}, title = {Notch Activation Is Dispensable for D, L-Sulforaphane-Mediated Inhibition of Human Prostate Cancer Cell Migration}, author = {ER Hahm and K Chandra-Kuntal and D Desai and S Amin and SV Singh}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15899/}, abstract = {D, L-Sulforaphane (SFN), a synthetic racemic analog of broccoli constituent L-sulforaphane, is a highly promising cancer chemopreventive agent with in vivo efficacy against chemically-induced as well as oncogene-driven cancer in preclinical rodent models. Cancer chemopreventive effect of SFN is characterized by G2/M phase cell cycle arrest, apoptosis induction, and inhibition of cell migration and invasion. Moreover, SFN inhibits multiple oncogenic signaling pathways often hyperactive in human cancers, including nuclear factor-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B, Akt, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, and androgen receptor. The present study was designed to determine the role of Notch signaling, which is constitutively active in many human cancers, in anticancer effects of SFN using prostate cancer cells as a model. Exposure of human prostate cancer cells (PC-3, LNCaP, and/or LNCaP-C4-2B) to SFN as well as its naturally-occurring thio-, sulfinyl-, and sulfonyl-analogs resulted in cleavage (activation) of Notch1, Notch2, and Notch4, which was accompanied by a decrease in levels of full-length Notch forms especially at the 16- and 24-hour time points. The SFN-mediated cleavage of Notch isoforms was associated with its transcriptional activation as evidenced by RBP-Jk-, HES-1A/B- and HEY-1 luciferase reporter assays. Migration of PC-3 and LNCaP cells was decreased significantly by RNA interference of Notch1 and Notch2, but not Notch4. Furthermore, SFN-mediated inhibition of PC-3 and LNCaP cell migration was only marginally affected by knockdown of Notch1 and Notch2. Strikingly, SFN administration to Transgenic Adenocarcinoma of Mouse Prostate transgenic mice failed to increase levels of cleaved Notch1, cleaved Notch2, and HES-1 proteins in vivo in prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia, well-differentiated carcinoma or poorly-differentiated prostate cancer lesions. These results indicate that Notch activation is largely dispensable for SFN-mediated inhibition of cell migration, which should be viewed as a therapeutic advantage as Notch activation is frequent in human prostate cancers. {\copyright} 2012 Hahm et al.} } @unpublished{pittir13326, month = {September}, title = {EXAMINING THE CONTRIBUTION OF CHROMATIN AND CHROMATIN ASSOCIATED FACTORS TO TRANSCRIPTION REGULATION}, author = {Sarah Hainer}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Transcription, nucleosome, chromatin, ncRNA, SRG1/SER3}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13326/}, abstract = {Regulation of gene expression is complex, involving the coordinated effect of a large number of proteins with a wide range of activities that control the recruitment and activity of RNA polymerases. Eukaryotic genomes are packaged into chromatin, where positioned nucleosomes are used to control transcriptional output. More recently, transcription of ncDNA has been shown to be pervasive and act as a regulator of gene expression as well. Previous studies in Saccharomyces cerevisiae described a gene repression mechanism whereby transcription of intergenic ncDNA (SRG1) over the promoter of the adjacent SER3 gene interferes with the binding of transcription factors. In this work, I contributed evidence to support a mechanism whereby SRG1 transcription represses SER3 by controlling chromatin. In the presence of serine, transcription of SRG1 ncDNA is initiated upstream of the adjacent SER3 gene and extends across the SER3 promoter. As RNA pol II transcribes SRG1, the accompanying Spt6 and Spt16 histone chaperones reassemble nucleosomes over the SER3 promoter, which then interfere with transcription factor binding resulting in SER3 repression. In response to serine starvation, SRG1 transcription is reduced, causing nucleosome depletion over the SER3 promoter, which in turn allows transcription factors to bind and activate SER3 transcription. I then use this system of gene regulation to identify and characterize mutant versions of the Spt16 histone chaperone and histone H3 and H4 proteins that are defective for transcription-coupled nucleosome assembly. These studies identify single amino acid substitutions in these proteins that cause a loss of nucleosome occupancy specifically over highly transcribed regions, revealing regions of the proteins that play critical roles in orchestrating transcription-coupled nucleosome assembly. Furthermore, I provide evidence that a subset of the amino acids in histone H3 function to control chromatin dynamics, and may function as a binding site for histone chaperones Spt6 and Spt16. Therefore, when the residues are mutated, these factors can no longer bind chromatin, resulting in slowed nucleosome reassembly over transcribed regions. Together, my work further elucidates the mechanism of SER3 regulation by transcription of SRG1 and reveals a set of novel residues working to regulate this mechanism and transcription-coupled nucleosome dynamics in general. } } @unpublished{pittir11681, month = {June}, title = {Implementation of Catalytic, Asymmetric Technology Toward the Total Synthesis of Apoptolidin C}, author = {James Hale}, year = {2012}, keywords = {total synthesis, organic chemistry, apoptolidin c, aac, acyl halide-aldehyde cyclocondensation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11681/}, abstract = {The total synthesis of apoptolidin C (3), a highly selective cytotoxic macrolide, has been under investigation in our lab. Work completed includes the synthesis of the C1-C11 fragment 29, the macrocyclic core 3b, and the disaccharide subunit 31. These goals have been realized utilizing catalytic, asymmetric reaction methodology including the acyl halide-aldehyde cyclocondensation (AAC) and proline catalyzed dimerization of simple aldehyde starting materials 33-38.} } @unpublished{pittir11987, month = {May}, title = {Personal, Environmental, and Behavioral Factors Influencing Condom Use in Rural Youth}, author = {Tammy Haley}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Adolescent health, rural health, prevention}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11987/}, abstract = {Background: Almost half of all high-school students in the United States have had sexual intercourse. Adolescents engaging in unprotected intercourse are at risk for pregnancy and sexually transmitted infection (STI). Although rural adolescents participate in levels of sexual risk-taking similar to that of non-rural youth, few data are available identifying factors influencing condom use among rural adolescents. Objective: The purpose of this study is to describe and identify personal, environmental and behavioral factors that predict condom use in rural youth in grades 9-12. Method: A descriptive, correlational, comparative, cross-sectional survey was conducted in a high-school setting among adolescents (N=613), ages 13-19, in three rural school districts in the Northeast. Correlational analyses were used to examine associations among variables, logistic regression analyses were used to identify predictors of the outcome variable (high goals for condom use among all youth; condom use among sexually active youth). Results: Predictors of condom use among sexually active youth included personal standards for condom use (Odds Ratio [OR] = 2.45; 95\% Confidence Interval [CI] 2.39-6.47), condom use goals (OR = 1.32; CI 1.21-1.45), condom use at first intercourse (OR = 3.93; CI 2.39-6.47) and male gender (OR = 3.17, CI 1.93-5.21) while increasing age (OR = .78, CI .63-.96) and the use of non-condom contraception (OR = .54, CI .32-.89) reduced the likelihood of condom use. Predictors of those having high goals for condom use among all rural youth include personal condom use standards (OR = 9.522; CI 6.46-14.01), self-efficacy for communication about condom use (OR = 2.182; CI 1.40-3.38), self-efficacy for refusing unwanted intercourse (OR = 1.379, 1.02-1.85), and norms for condom use (OR = 1.82; CI 1.38-2.39). Conclusion: Fostering high goals for condom use and personal standards for condom use appear to predict actual condom use in this sample of rural adolescents. Interventions aimed at increasing condom use among rural youth could include focused strategies to target these predictors. Interventions delivered prior to the initiation of intercourse are likely to provide the greatest impact given the predictive nature of age and condom use at first intercourse. } } @article{pittir17686, volume = {8}, number = {2}, month = {April}, author = {Julie Hallinan}, title = {Complacency and Controversy: Transgender Policy on Pitt's Campus}, journal = {Pitt Political Review}, pages = {47 -- 48}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17686/} } @article{pittir24224, volume = {13}, number = {11}, month = {November}, author = {N Hamajima and K Hirose and K Tajima and T Rohan and CM Friedenreich and EE Calle and SM Gapstur and AV Patel and RJ Coates and JM Liff and R Talamini and N Chantarakul and S Koetsawang and D Rachawat and Y Marcou and E Kakouri and SW Duffy and A Morabia and L Schuman and W Stewart and M Szklo and PF Coogan and JR Palmer and L Rosenberg and P Band and AJ Coldman and RP Gallagher and TG Hislop and P Yang and SR Cummings and K Canfell and F Sitas and P Chao and J Lissowska and PL Horn-Ross and EM John and LM Kolonel and AMY Nomura and R Ghiasvand and J Hu and KC Johnson and Y Mao and V Beral and D Bull and K Callaghan and B Crossley and A Goodill and J Green and C Hermon and T Key and I Lindgard and B Liu and K Pirie and G Reeves and R Collins and R Doll and R Peto and T Bishop and IS Fentiman and S De Sanjos{\'e} and CA Gonzalez and N Lee and P Marchbanks and HW Ory and HB Peterson and P Wingo and K Ebeling and D Kunde and P Nishan and JL Hopper and H Eliassen and S Hankinson and V Gajalakshmi and N Martin and T Pardthaisong and S Silpisornkosol and C Theetranont and B Boosiri and S Chutivongse and P Jimakorn and P Virutamasen and C Wongsrichanalai and A Neugut and R Santella and CJ Baines and N Kreiger and AB Miller and C Wall and A Tjonneland and T Jorgensen and C Stahlberg and AT Pedersen and D Flesch-Janys and N Hakansson and J Cauley and I Heuch and HO Adami and I Persson and E Weiderpass and C Magnusson}, title = {Menarche, menopause, and breast cancer risk: Individual participant meta-analysis, including 118 964 women with breast cancer from 117 epidemiological studies}, journal = {The Lancet Oncology}, pages = {1141 -- 1151}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/24224/}, abstract = {Background Menarche and menopause mark the onset and cessation, respectively, of ovarian activity associated with reproduction, and affect breast cancer risk. Our aim was to assess the strengths of their effects and determine whether they depend on characteristics of the tumours or the affected women. Methods Individual data from 117 epidemiological studies, including 118 964 women with invasive breast cancer and 306 091 without the disease, none of whom had used menopausal hormone therapy, were included in the analyses. We calculated adjusted relative risks (RRs) associated with menarche and menopause for breast cancer overall, and by tumour histology and by oestrogen receptor expression. Findings Breast cancer risk increased by a factor of 1.050 (95\% CI 1.044-1.057; p{\ensuremath{<}}0.0001) for every year younger at menarche, and independently by a smaller amount (1.029, 1.025-1.032; p{\ensuremath{<}}0.0001), for every year older at menopause. Premenopausal women had a greater risk of breast cancer than postmenopausal women of an identical age (RR at age 45-54 years 1.43, 1.33-1.52, p{\ensuremath{<}}0.001). All three of these associations were attenuated by increasing adiposity among postmenopausal women, but did not vary materially by women's year of birth, ethnic origin, childbearing history, smoking, alcohol consumption, or hormonal contraceptive use. All three associations were stronger for lobular than for ductal tumours (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.006 for each comparison). The effect of menopause in women of an identical age and trends by age at menopause were stronger for oestrogen receptor-positive disease than for oestrogen receptor-negative disease (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.01 for both comparisons). Interpretation The effects of menarche and menopause on breast cancer risk might not be acting merely by lengthening women's total number of reproductive years. Endogenous ovarian hormones are more relevant for oestrogen receptorpositive disease than for oestrogen receptor-negative disease and for lobular than for ductal tumours.} } @unpublished{pittir13467, month = {September}, title = {Activism, Sex Work, and Womanhood in North India}, author = {Megan Hamm}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Sex Work, Activism, North India, NGOs}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13467/}, abstract = {This dissertation is an ethnography of a sex worker activist organization in North India. The NGO Guria Swayam Sevi Sansthan has been working to end brothel-based prostitution in Shivdaspur, a small red light area on the outskirts of Varanasi, since 1993. In the course of their 19-year interaction with the red light area, they have used a variety of tactics, ranging from non-violent protest of the exploitation of sex workers in Shivdaspur, to education programs, to ?raid-and-rescue? tactics, settling on the latter tactic to further their cause. This dissertation describes both the NGO?s activism and its interaction with Shivdaspur, focusing on the ways in which the middle-class founders of the organization conceptualize the women they seek to aid. I argue that Guria?-affiliated activists, and their middle-class supporters, view those who live and work in Shivdaspur through the lens of their own values and priorities, including a hard-lined focus on the implementation of human rights, respect for women, the importance of civil society, and the desirability of a functional, non-corrupt State. These values lead directly to the conceptualization of sex workers as living lives outside the boundaries of what is considered acceptable for women, and for human beings more generally, and ironically to activism that excludes sex workers as well as pimps and brothel keepers. Individual chapters of the dissertation describe various forms of such exclusion: ?raid-and-rescue? activist tactics that draw on and contribute to an understanding of sex workers as bare life, the disavowal of sex workers? marriages, the exclusion of Shivdaspuri sex workers from an NGO-sponsored concert meant to showcase the artistic talents of sex workers and other marginalized communities, and the silence and disbelief that surrounds sex workers? narratives of their lives and working conditions. } } @unpublished{pittir12866, month = {July}, title = {THE ROLE OF GPR30 IN MEDIATING ESTROGEN EFFECTS ON NEURONS AND COGNITIVE PERFORMANCE}, author = {Rebecca Hammond}, year = {2012}, keywords = {This thesis describes studies done to characterize a novel estrogen receptor named GPR30. It examines GPR30 expression in the rat brain, looks at how GPR30 activation affects cholinergic neurons, and tests whether GPR30 activation and inhibition enhances or impairs spatial learning in rats.}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12866/}, abstract = {Basic and clinical research suggests the loss of estradiol following menopause may contribute to accelerated brain aging and the increased risk of age-related cognitive decline and dementia. Novel estrogenic compounds may confer positive cognitive effects without the added risk of side effects associated with current agents. G-1 is a recently developed agonist for the novel transmembrane estrogen receptor (ER) GPR30. Activation of the GPR30 pathway is independent of either the classical ER {\ensuremath{\alpha}} or {\ensuremath{\beta}} pathways, raising the possibility of using G-1 as a novel estrogenic agent while avoiding the risks associated with other estrogenic compounds. Previous work in our laboratory has shown that estradiol enhances cognitive performance via effects on basal forebrain cholinergic neurons. We hypothesize the effects of estradiol on cholinergic function and cognitive performance are mediated by GPR30. If correct, then selective GPR30 agonists may provide useful alternatives to current estrogenic therapies. To test this hypothesis the first goal was to characterize GPR30 expression in the rat forebrain, focusing on co-expression by cholinergic neurons. A RT-PCR assay was developed to quantify GPR30 mRNA in specific brain regions. GPR30 protein and mRNA expression were found in regions of the brain important for spatial learning and memory. Moreover, GPR30 protein appears to be expressed by the vast majority of cholinergic neurons. The second goal was to examine the effects of GPR30 activation on cholinergic neurons. In vivo microdialysis and HPLC analysis of acetylcholine levels in dialysates were used to compare effects on acetylcholine release. Administration of a GPR30 agonist or estradiol (E2) to ovariectomized (OVX) rats produced a 3-fold increase in potassium-stimulated acetylcholine release in the hippocampus relative to vehicle-treated controls. The third goal was to test the ability of GPR30 agonists and antagonists to enhance or impair cognitive performance in rats. GPR30 agonism enhanced the rate of acquisition on a delayed matching-to-position (DMP) T-maze task in OVX rats similar to estradiol while GPR30 antagonism dose-dependently impaired performance in gonadally intact and OVX+E2 rodents. Hence, GPR30 appears to play an important role in mediating direct effects of estradiol on basal forebrain cholinergic neurons, with corresponding effects on cognitive performance. } } @article{pittir25352, volume = {89}, number = {3}, month = {December}, author = {HA Hamoudi}, title = {Arab spring, Libyan liberation and the externally imposed democratic revolution}, journal = {Denver University Law Review}, pages = {699 -- 734}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/25352/} } @article{pittir27009, volume = {10}, number = {2}, author = {Haider Ala Hamoudi}, title = {The American Commercial Religion}, publisher = {DePaul University}, journal = {DePaul Business and Commercial Law Journal}, pages = {301 -- 364}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Uniform, Commercial, Code, UCC, commercial, law}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/27009/}, abstract = {To all but possibly the most senior of commercial law specialists, it is difficult to imagine American commercial life without the nationwide adoption of the Uniform Commercial Code. We would surely regard as impossible the idea that the vast economic success of the latter half of the twentieth century could have been achieved without it. The Uniform Commercial Code is our godhead, our sacred foundational document, our Holy Book of modern commerce, which brought us a form of economic enlightenment from the pre-Code Days of Ignorance. Our attachment to the U.C.C. runs far deeper than a mere rational commercial preference. It resembles more that of the faith of the religious believer. This presents a problem, however. Even if we assume that our faith in the U.C.C. has been over the past several decades salutary, and there are good and plenty reasons to believe that it is, and even if the uniformity that is its product has on balance permitted massive economic progress, our near dogmatic faith-like belief in the U.C.C., our Code, has hindered the very type of global uniformity, and the attendant benefits thereto, that it continues to enable in the domestic context. The Article will demonstrate this by focusing on two areas of attempted global convergence in commerce where cross border harmonization of domestic regimes has proved particularly problematic, albeit in different ways in each case. These areas correspond to the respective scope of two of the more hallowed Articles of the Code; namely, Article 2, which deals with the sale of goods, and Article 9, which deals with means to obtain security over debt. This Article also discusses what must be done if meaningful international harmonization is to be achieved.} } @article{pittir25333, month = {December}, title = {The Arabs in the (Inter)National}, author = {Haider Ala Hamoudi}, year = {2012}, note = {Source info: 10 Santa Clara Journal of International Law 187 (2012)}, keywords = {Arab spring, national security, Islam, Islamic law, Islamic state, Arab state}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/25333/} } @incollection{pittir30040, booktitle = {International Law in Domestic Courts-Rule of Law Reform in Post-Conflict States}, month = {February}, title = {International Law and Iraqi Courts}, author = {Haider Ala Hamoudi}, year = {2012}, note = {Source info: International Law in Domestic Courts: Rule of Law Reform in Post Conflict States (Intersentia)}, keywords = {Iraqi courts, human rights in Iraq, international law in Iraq, international law, human rights law}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/30040/} } @article{pittir25445, title = {Repugnancy in the Arab World}, author = {Haider Ala Hamoudi}, year = {2012}, note = {Source info: Willamette Law Review, Vol. 48:427, 2012}, keywords = {repugnancy, Islamic constitutionalism, Arab constitutionalism, shari'a, Islamic law}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/25445/} } @inproceedings{pittir27030, title = {Thinking Beyond the Original Bargain: Post Ratification Constitution Making and the Case of Iraq}, author = {Haider Ala Hamoudi}, year = {2012}, note = {Source info: APSA 2012 Annual Meeting Paper}, keywords = {Iraq, constitution, constitution making}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/27030/} } @inproceedings{pittir19002, booktitle = {2012 Human-Computer Information Retrieval Symposium}, title = {IRIS-IPS: An Interactive People Search System for HCIR Challenge}, author = {Shuguang Han and Daqing He and Zhen Yue and Jiepu Jiang and Wei Jeng}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19002/} } @unpublished{pittir16986, month = {December}, title = {Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells Derived From Adult And Fetal Hepatocytes For The Study And Treatment Of Liver Metabolic Diseases}, author = {Marc C Hansel}, year = {2012}, keywords = {fetal hepatocytes, adult hepatocytes, reprogramming efficiency, hepatoblasts, iPS, liver metabolic disease}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16986/}, abstract = {Hepatocyte transplantation has been used to treat liver disease. The availability of cells for these procedures is quite limited. hESCs and hiPSCs may be a useful source of hepatocytes for basic research and transplantation if efficient and effective differentiation protocols were developed and problems with tumorigenicity could be overcome. Recent evidence suggests that the cell of origin may affect hiPSC differentiation. Thus, hiPSCs generated from hepatocytes may differentiate back to hepatocytes more efficiently than hiPSCs from other cell types. We examined the efficiency of reprogramming adult and fetal human hepatocytes. The present studies report the generation of 40 hiPSC lines from primary human hepatocytes under feeder-free conditions (37 from fetal hepatocytes, 2 from normal adult hepatocytes and 1 from adult hepatocytes of a patient with Crigler-Najjar Syndrome, Type-1). All lines were confirmed reprogrammed and expressed markers of pluripotency by gene expression, flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, and teratoma formation. Fetal hepatocytes were reprogrammed at a frequency over 50-fold higher than adult hepatocytes. Adult hepatocytes were only reprogrammed with 6 factors, while fetal hepatocytes could be reprogrammed with 3 or 4 factors. The increased reprogramming efficiency of fetal cells was not due to increased transduction efficiency or vector toxicity. We also report the transplantation and differentiation of human fetal hepatocyte-derived iPSCs. We show preliminary data that undifferentiated cells can engraft in mouse livers of FRG and NOD/SCID mice. Engraftment was based on human DNA presence in liver tissue. Furthermore we differentiated these cells to definitive endoderm and transplanted them to FRG mice. Human DNA and human albumin were present in mouse livers and mouse serum respectively. Finally, full hepatic differentiation was performed, although we show limited results in terms of the cells? ability to express liver specific genes and perform liver-specific metabolism. Taken together, these studies confirm that hiPSCs can be generated from adult and fetal hepatocytes, including those with genetic diseases, and differentiated back to the hepatocyte lineage. Fetal hepatocytes reprogram much more efficiently than adult, although both could serve as useful sources of hiPSC-derived hepatocytes for basic research or transplantation if an efficient hepatic differentiation protocol could be developed. } } @unpublished{pittir11853, month = {May}, title = {Wittgenstein and Goethe: tracing methodological and scientific links between 19th century German romanticism and Wittgenstein's language games}, author = {Nathaniel Hanson}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Wittgenstein, Goethe, Language-games, Philosophy of Language, History and Philosophy of Science, Romanticism, Hertz, Metamorphosis of Plants, Morphology, Newton, Tractatus, Philosophical Investigations}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11853/}, abstract = {While, at the very least, one could attribute an academic connection between Goethe and Wittgenstein to the existence of a common Germanic scientific, literary, and philosophical tradition, the following paper attempts to lay the foundation for the possible mapping of the methodological and philosophical connections between the two thinkers in hopes to better understand Wittgenstein?s later philosophy. I focus on mapping explicit methodological connections between the two thinkers, using, on one hand Wittgenstein?s writings and personal notes, and, on the other, Goethe?s particular conception of organically-modeled explanations of phenomena. Specifically, I argue that Goethe?s method and philosophy of science directly influenced Wittgenstein?s work in epistemology and the philosophy of language. This paper, therefore, examines Wittgenstein?s language games through a Goethian methodological framework, one which bares striking resemblance to the language games of the Philosophical Investigations. Goethe postulated all plants to be connected via a universal archetypical plant. To Goethe, this plant was the conceptual and developmental basis for all other plants, which, he argued, were all possible stages of an infinite field of developmentally-linked possible floral forms. Nature, to Goethe, was continuously changing, adapting and interconnected; the archetypical plant stood as Goethe?s answer to the causally-focused models of the rapidly expanding Newtonian tradition of scientific explanation. Wittgenstein?s work is often split between a more static conception of the first half of Wittgenstein?s career, which was built upon explanations based upon strict, unchanging rules of logic and corresponding explanations, on one hand, and a more mystical, use-centered approach to philosophical method on the other. This later work is often understood to be a substantial revision to its earlier counterpart. My paper argues that the later Wittgenstein was reacting to methods of philosophical explanation similar to the scientific ideology and method of Newton with which Goethe was also reacting, namely closed causal-focused systems of scientific and philosophical explanation. This argument is augmented by the argued methodological connection between Goethe?s archetypical plant and Wittgenstein?s language games. By focusing on this Goethian connection, I believe that scholarship on language games, and the later Wittgenstein in general, will be able to be understood from a new philosophical vantage point. } } @unpublished{pittir10751, month = {January}, title = {ERROR-RELATED NEGATIVITIES DURING SPELLING JUDGMENTS EXPOSE ORTHOGRAPHIC KNOWLEDGE}, author = {Lindsay Nicole Harris}, year = {2012}, keywords = {spelling, lexical knowledge, orthographic representation, phonological processing, ERPs, error-related negativity, ERN}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10751/}, abstract = {Understanding the role of phonological awareness in reading has been the focus of much psycholinguistic research, but less attention has been paid to understanding knowledge of the spellings that activate phonology. We carried out two experiments using ERPs to expose linguistic processes related to orthographic knowledge during judgments about the spellings of English words. In the first experiment, we confirmed that the error-related negativity (ERN) can be elicited during spelling decisions, and that its magnitude was correlated with behavioral measures of spelling knowledge. In the second experiment, we manipulated the phonology of misspelled stimuli and observed that ERN magnitudes were larger when misspelled words altered the phonology of their correctly spelled counterparts than when they preserved it. This finding has implications for the influence of internal phonological and orthographic representations on error monitoring during reading. In both experiments, ERN effect sizes were correlated with performance on a number of reading-related assessments, including offline spelling ability and vocabulary knowledge, affirming the interdependent nature of reading processes and suggesting the usefulness of ERNs for indexing knowledge of a wide range of reading-related skills.} } @article{pittir18858, volume = {9}, number = {4}, month = {January}, author = {TA Hart and D Moskowitz and C Cox and X Li and DG Ostrow and RD Stall and PM Gorbach and M Plankey}, title = {The Cumulative Effects of Medication Use, Drug Use, and Smoking on Erectile Dysfunction Among Men Who Have Sex with Men}, journal = {Journal of Sexual Medicine}, pages = {1106 -- 1113}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18858/}, abstract = {Introduction. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is highly prevalent among human immunodeficiency virus-seropositive (HIV+) men who have sex with men (MSM). There is a need for additional research to determine the correlates of HIV+ and HIV-seronegative (HIV-) MSM, especially regarding nonantiretroviral medication use. Aims. This study examined the prevalence of ED and the sociodemographic, medical conditions, medication use, and substance use correlates of ED among HIV+ and HIV- MSM. Methods. A modified version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) for MSM was self-administered by participants enrolled in the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study, an ongoing prospective study of the natural and treated histories of HIV infection among MSM in the United States. The study sample included 1,340 participants, including 612 HIV+ and 728 HIV- men. Poisson regression with robust error variance was used to estimate prevalence ratios of ED in multivariable models in combined (HIV+/-) and separate analyses. Main Outcome Measure. ED was determined by the summed scores of a modified version of the IIEF validated among MSM. Results. Twenty-one percent of HIV+ MSM and 16\% of HIV- MSM reported ED. Being {\ensuremath{>}}55years of age, black race, cumulative pack years of smoking, cumulative antihypertensive use, and cumulative antidepressant use had significant positive associations with the prevalence of ED in the total sample. Among HIV+ men, duration of antihypertensive use and antidepressant use were significantly associated with increasing prevalence of ED. Among HIV- men, being {\ensuremath{>}}55years of age, black race, and cigarette smoking duration were associated with increased prevalence of ED. Conclusion. Predictors of ED may differ by HIV status. Although smoking cessation and effective medication management may be important as possible treatment strategies for ED among all MSM, there may be a burden on sexual functioning produced by non-HIV medications for HIV+ men. Hart TA, Moskowitz D, Cox C, Li X, Ostrow DG, Stall RD, Gorbach PM, and Plankey M. The cumulative effects of medication use, drug use, and smoking on erectile dysfunction among men who have sex with men. {\copyright} 2012 International Society for Sexual Medicine.} } @article{pittir29806, volume = {14}, number = {5}, month = {October}, title = {Who's driving anyway? Herculean efforts to identify the drivers of breast cancer}, author = {RJ Hartmaier and N Priedigkeit and AV Lee}, year = {2012}, journal = {Breast Cancer Research}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29806/}, abstract = {The continuing advancement of sequencing technologies has made the systematic identification of all driving somatic events in cancer a possibility. In the June 2012 issue of Nature, five papers show some significant headway in this endeavor, each a herculean effort of genome sequencing, and transcriptome and copy number analysis resulting in data on thousands of breast cancers. Integrating these massive datasets, the authors were able to further subdivide breast cancer and identify a number of novel driver genes. While the studies represent a leap forward in describing the genomics of breast cancer, and clearly highlight the tremendous diversity between tumors, the studies only scrape the surface of molecular changes in breast tumors, with more granularity to come from the study of epigenomics, single cell sequencing, and so on. The immediate importance of the data to clinical care is currently unknown, and will depend upon detailed identification and functional analysis of driver mutations. {\copyright} 2012 BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir17679, volume = {8}, number = {2}, month = {April}, author = {John Hasley}, title = {The Shortcomings of Contemporary Political Rhetoric}, journal = {Pitt Political Review}, pages = {9 -- 12}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17679/} } @article{pittir16233, volume = {86}, number = {4}, month = {February}, author = {GF Hatfull}, title = {Complete genome sequences of 138 mycobacteriophages}, journal = {Journal of Virology}, pages = {2382 -- 2384}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16233/}, abstract = {Bacteriophages are the most numerous biological entities in the biosphere, and although their genetic diversity is high, it remains ill defined. Mycobacteriophages-the viruses of mycobacterial hosts-provide insights into this diversity as well as tools for manipulating Mycobacterium tuberculosis. We report here the complete genome sequences of 138 new mycobacteriophages, which-together with the 83 mycobacteriophages previously reported-represent the largest collection of phages known to infect a single common host, Mycobacterium smegmatis mc 2 155. {\copyright} 2012, American Society for Microbiology.} } @article{pittir18914, volume = {24}, number = {5}, month = {May}, author = {M Hawk and D Davis}, title = {The effects of a harm reduction housing program on the viral loads of homeless individuals living with HIV/AIDS}, journal = {AIDS Care - Psychological and Socio-Medical Aspects of AIDS/HIV}, pages = {577 -- 582}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18914/}, abstract = {Although the advent of highly active antiretroviral therapies has increased survival rates for many individuals living with HIV/AIDS, chronically homeless individuals with the disease continue to experience poor clinical outcomes and high mortality rates in comparison to the general population living with HIV. Housing as a structural intervention for homeless people living with HIV/AIDS has been shown both to be feasible and to improve access to care. However, few studies report the impact of accessing stable housing on residents' viral load counts, even though viral load has been accepted as the best predictor of clinical prognosis for over a decade. The Open Door is a nonprofit agency that utilizes a harm reduction, housing first model of care to improve clinical outcomes for homeless people living with HIV. This article describes the first study that utilizes viral load to assess the effectiveness of a housing first approach. During the study period, we found that 69\% of residents of The Open Door achieved undetectable viral loads, which far exceeds adherence rates ranging from 13 to 32\% that were found in other studies of similar vulnerable populations. This finding supports the feasibility of this approach and its potential impact on reducing HIV morbidity, mortality, and secondary transmission. Given that the majority of the residents were active substance users during the study period and achieved undetectable viral loads, our findings also substantiate other studies demonstrating that substance users are able to maintain clinical adherence. {\copyright} 2012 Taylor and Francis.} } @unpublished{pittir13438, month = {September}, title = {Evaluation of a Community Developed Intervention to Reduce HIV Risk Among African American Women}, author = {Mary Hawk}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Community-based evaluation, African American women, HIV}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13438/}, abstract = {In the United States, African American women are twenty times as likely as their Caucasian counterparts to become infected with HIV. At some point in her life, one in thirty-two African American women will be diagnosed with HIV. Developing and rigorously evaluating interventions to reduce the impact of this disease for African American women is thus a matter of great public health significance. The Girlfriends Project (TGP) is a community developed intervention designed to reduce HIV infection rates among African American women. TGP builds on social networks by recruiting women to host house parties for their friends and family members, during which trained facilitators provide HIV risk reduction information and on-site HIV testing and counseling. This document describes the process of scientifically evaluating TGP using a study design that was developed with community partners and took place in community settings. This pilot study used a mixed methods approach, pairing a quantitative analysis using a wait-list design with a qualitative study in which semi-structured interviews were conducted with study participants. A number of statistically significant findings were noted. As compared to the control group, women in the intervention group were four times as likely to decrease their frequency of anal sex without condoms, six times as likely to increase their frequency of anal sex with condoms, and two to three times more likely to talk with their male sex partners about preventing HIV, preventing other sexually transmitted infections, or their partners? sex histories. Intervention group women were significantly more likely to have vaginal sex with a condom after participating in TGP and also experienced a statistically significant improvement in HIV knowledge after the intervention. Preliminary qualitative data suggests that TGP participants increase the degree to which they talk with members of their social networks about HIV risk after participating in the intervention. Participants also report that TGP has helped them to prioritize their own health and to develop connections to support other women in doing the same. Given these early indicators of success, further research is warranted to understand TGP?s mechanisms for change and demonstrate program effectiveness. } } @article{pittir12405, volume = {17}, number = {3}, month = {June}, author = {T Hayajneh and P Krishnamurthy and D Tipper and A Le}, title = {Secure neighborhood creation in wireless ad hoc networks using hop count discrepancies}, journal = {Mobile Networks and Applications}, pages = {415 -- 430}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12405/}, abstract = {A fundamental requirement for nodes in ad hoc and sensor networks is the ability to correctly determine their neighborhood. Many applications, protocols, and network wide functions rely on correct neighborhood discovery. Malicious nodes that taint neighborhood information using wormholes can significantly disrupt the operation of ad hoc networks. Protocols that depend only on cryptographic techniques (e.g, authentication and encryption) may not be able to detect or prevent such attacks. In this paper we propose SECUND, a protocol for creating a SECUre NeighborhooD, that makes use of discrepancies in routing hop count information to detect "true" neighbors and remove those links to nodes that appear to be neighbors, but are not really neighbors. SECUND is simple, localized and needs no special hardware, localization, or synchronization. We evaluate SECUND using simulations and demonstrate its effectiveness in the presence of multiple and multi-ended wormholes. Lastly, we present approaches to improve the efficiency of the SECUND process. {\copyright} Springer Science+Business Media, LLC 2010.} } @article{pittir18965, volume = {64}, number = {6}, month = {November}, author = {D He and D Wu and Z Yue and A Fu and KT Vo}, title = {Undergraduate students' interaction with online information resources in their academic tasks: A comparative study}, journal = {Aslib Proceedings: New Information Perspectives}, pages = {615 -- 640}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18965/}, abstract = {Purpose: This paper aims to identify the opinions of undergraduate students on the importance of internet-based information sources when they undertake academic tasks. Design/methodology/approach: Based on a set of identified typical academic tasks for undergraduate students, three research questions were designed around the students' usage and views of information resources for completing these tasks. Web-accessible questionnaires were used to collect data from participants in two universities in the USA and China, and the data were analyzed using quantitative methods, which included several statistic methods. Findings: The results confirm that undergraduate students use different information resources for various academic tasks. In their tasks, online electronic resources including search engines are the most commonly used resources, particularly for complex academic tasks. Social networking sites are not used for the students' individual academic tasks, and traditional resources still play equal or more important roles in certain specific academic tasks. Students in collaborative tasks look for resources that make it easy to share documents. Participants from the two countries also exhibit interesting and important differences in their usage of information resources. Originality/value: This study examines undergraduate students' usages and views of different information resources in their various academic tasks, and pays special attention to the impacts of being from their different countries. The study also considers both students' individual academic tasks and collaborative tasks. This study is an invaluable addition to the information seeking behaviour literature. {\copyright} Emerald Group Publishing Limited.} } @incollection{pittir12453, booktitle = {Library and Information Science}, month = {January}, title = {Chapter 12 Multilingual Resources and Services in Chinese Academic Libraries: A Survey}, author = {Daqing He and Dan Wu}, publisher = {Emerald Group Publishing Limited}, year = {2012}, pages = {291 -- 313}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12453/} } @article{pittir12449, volume = {30}, number = {2}, month = {April}, author = {Daqing He and Dan Wu}, note = {This article is available at the publisher?s Web site. Access to the full text is subject to the publisher?s access restrictions.}, title = {Guest Editorial: Multilinguality in digital libraries}, publisher = {Emerald}, year = {2012}, journal = {The Electronic Library}, pages = {161 -- 164}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12449/} } @unpublished{pittir12485, month = {August}, title = {Impulsive Aggression and the Incidence of Early-Onset Depression in Youth}, author = {Jiayan He}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Impulsive Aggression; Depression; behavior disorder; survival analysis}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12485/}, abstract = {Objective: To assess the relationship between impulsive aggression (IA) and the early-onset depression (OD) in youth. Method: The data consists of records from 348 youth aged 10 to 25 years who had never had a mood disorder by the time of study entry, but had at least one parent with a diagnosed mood disorder. The participants were recruited at two different sites. The primary outcome was OD and the primary measure of interest was IA. The effect of the baseline IA level was evaluated univariately and after adjusting for other risk factors associated with OD. Univariate analyses of the effect of categorical factors were performed using log-rank and Wilcoxon tests, with the corresponding tests for trends being implemented for ordinal variables. Multivariable modeling was done using the discrete-time proportional hazards model. Optimal dichotomization of IA into high and low risk groups was obtained using the outcome-oriented technique by Contal and O?Quigley. Results: Univariate analyses indicated that participants with a high level of impulsive aggression had an increased risk of OD (hazard ratio (HR) = 2.0, 95\% CI: 1.13 to 3.55). Increased risk for youth with high IA was observed after adjusting for site, offspring risk factors of behavior disorder and puberty, proband risk factors of anxiety disorder and alcohol/substance abuse. Among these factors, only one, behavior disorder, alleviated the effect of IA. Behavior disorder was strongly associated with high risk for depression (HR = 2.51, 95\% CI: 1.32 to 4.77) and behavior disorder and IA were closely related, with the rate of behavior disorder in the high IA group being significantly greater than in the low IA group (26.5\% vs. 9.4\%, p {\ensuremath{<}} 0.001). Conclusions: The results suggest that impulsive aggression is a significant prognostic factor for depression onset. Although part of the information carried by the IA measurement is captured by other measurements (e.g., behavior disorder), the level of IA still offers useful information regarding the future depression onset. Implication for public health: An understanding of the relationship between impulsive aggression and depression onset is important for the treatment and prevention of depression.} } @unpublished{pittir11854, month = {June}, title = {Keep going: narrative continuity in Luciano Berio's Sinfonia and Dillinger: an American oratorio}, author = {Matthew Heap}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Sinfonia, Narrative, Opera/Oratorio, Semiotics, Berio, Twentieth-Century Music}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11854/}, abstract = {The analysis component of this dissertation provides a discussion of a continuous narrative that develops during the course of Luciano Berio?s 1969 masterwork, Sinfonia. Previous analysts have tended to either limit their work to one movement of the piece or to undertake analyses that do a movement-by-movement technical study that does not really touch on overall meaning. Herein, I propose two narrative readings of Sinfonia. The first involves the conflict between music or text that is a signifier of one of three important elements: blood, fire, and water. The piece is defined structurally by the interplay of these elements, especially between referents to water and fire. As the work ends, it becomes clear that the elements of blood and death (which are present implicitly throughout) are closely linked. Secondly, I propose a programmatic narrative along the lines of the Heldenleben program, in which our hero-composer tries to start a piece, fails, and so looks for inspiration and enlightenment, first from a recent work, then from the masterpieces of the past. Finally, he continues his piece from where he ended in the first movement, and finishes it in a satisfying way, synthesizing materials from the previous movements. The two narratives come together in this last movement, and, as a result, the movement, and the piece, could be seen as an answer to the question of ?What is the point of art?? I provide evidence for these narratives through a combination of analytical techniques. I also examine the context of many of the textual fragments that Berio uses to show patterns and relationships between disparate sources. The composition component of this dissertation, with a libretto by Darren Canady, is entitled Dillinger: An American Oratorio. It is set as an opera-oratorio, and deals with the last days of the American gangster John Dillinger as he struggles to settle down and leave his life of crime. The piece explores the complex American fascination for the outlaw and lone wolf.} } @unpublished{pittir13170, month = {September}, title = {Precision Cosmology with Weak Gravitational Lensing}, author = {Andrew Hearin}, year = {2012}, keywords = {cosmology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13170/}, abstract = {In recent years, cosmological science has developed a highly predictive model for the universe on large scales that is in quantitative agreement with a wide range of astronomical observations. While the number and diversity of successes of this model provide great confidence that our general picture of cosmology is correct, numerous puzzles remain. In this dissertation, I analyze the potential of planned and near future galaxy surveys to provide new understanding of several unanswered questions in cosmology, and address some of the leading challenges to this observational program. In particular, I study an emerging technique called cosmic shear, the weak gravitational lensing produced by large scale structure. I focus on developing strategies to optimally use the cosmic shear signal observed in galaxy imaging surveys to uncover the physics of dark energy and the early universe. In chapter 1 I give an overview of a few unsolved mysteries in cosmology and I motivate weak lensing as a cosmological probe. I discuss the use of weak lensing as a test of general relativity in chapter 2 and assess the threat to such tests presented by our uncertainty in the physics of galaxy formation. Interpreting the cosmic shear signal requires knowledge of the redshift distribution of the lensed galaxies. This redshift distribution will be significantly uncertain since it must be determined photometrically. In chapter 3 I investigate the influence of photometric redshift errors on our ability to constrain dark energy models with weak lensing. The ability to study dark energy with cosmic shear is also limited by the imprecision in our understanding of the physics of gravitational collapse. In chapter 4 I present the stringent calibration requirements on this source of uncertainty. I study the potential of weak lensing to resolve a debate over a long-standing anomaly in CMB measurements in chapter 5. Finally, in chapter 6 I summarize my findings and conclude with a brief discussion of my outlook on the future of weak lensing studies of cosmology.} } @unpublished{pittir10482, month = {February}, title = {Carbon Dioxide Capture from Fuel Gas Streams under Elevated Pressures and Temperatures Using Novel Physical Solvents}, author = {Yannick J. Heintz}, year = {2012}, keywords = {absorption, Aspen Plus, CO2 capture, gas-inducing reactor, hydrodynamics, ionic liquids, mass transfer, solubility}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10482/}, abstract = {The conventional processes for acid gas removal (AGR), including CO2 in the Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC) power generation facilities are: a chemical process, using methyl-diethanolamine (MDEA); a physical process, using chilled methanol (Rectisol) or a physical process, using mixtures of dimethylethers of polyetheleneglycol (Selexol). These conventional processes require cooling of the fuel gas streams for CO2 capture and subsequent reheating before sending to turbines, which decreases the plant thermal efficiency and increases the overall cost. Thus, there is a pressing need for developing an economical process which can capture CO2 from the hot fuel gas stream without significant cooling. The overall objective of this study is to investigate the potential use of physical solvents for selective capture of CO2 from post water-gas-shift streams under relatively elevated pressures and temperatures. In order to achieve this objective, a comprehensive literature review was conducted to define an ?ideal solvent? for CO2 capture and to identify six different physical solvents which should obey such a definition. The first physical solvents identified were perfluorocarbons (PFCs), which are known to have low reactivity, high chemical stability and relatively low vapor pressures. Three different PFCs, known as PP10, PP11, and PP25, were selected as potential candidates for CO2 capture. The equilibrium solubilities of CO2 and N2 were measured in these PFCs under different operating conditions up to 30 bar and 500 K. These PFCs have relatively low viscosity at 500 K, very good thermal and chemical stabilities and showed high CO2 solubilities; hence they were considered as ?ideal solvents.? The CO2 solubilities in PP25 were found to be greater than in the other two PFCs. Due to its superior behavior, PP25 was selected for the development of a conceptual process for CO2 capture form Pittsburgh No. 8 shifted fuel gas mixture using Aspen Plus simulator. Unfortunately, during the pressure-swing option for solvent regeneration, the solvent loss was significant due to the fact that the boiling point of PP25 is 533 K which is close to the absorber temperature (500 K). Also, other drawbacks of PFCs include, high cost, and absorption of other gases (light hydrocarbons) along with CO2. It was then decided to seek different physical solvents, which have negligible vapor pressure, in addition to the other attractive properties of the ?ideal solvent? in order to use in the Aspen Plus simulator. Extensive literature search led to Ionic Liquids (ILs), which are known to have unique properties in addition to extremely low vapor pressures, and therefore they were considered excellent candidates for the CO2 capture from fuel gas streams under elevated pressures and temperatures. Three ILs, namely TEGO IL K5, TEGO IL P9 and TEGO IL P51P, manufactured by Evonik Goldschmidt Chemical Corporation, were selected as potential solvents for CO2 capture. The solubilities of CO2, H2, H2S and N2 were measured in the TEGO IL K5 and the solubilities of CO2 and H2 were measured in the TEGO IL K5 at pressures up to 30 bar and temperatures from 300 to 500 K. Also, the density and viscosity of these three ILs were measured within the same pressure and temperature ranges, and the surface tension for TEGO IL K5 and TEGO IL P51P were measured from 296 to 369 K. Due to their superior performance for CO2 capture, the TEGO IL K5 and the TEGO IL P51P were selected to be used in the Aspen simulator for the conceptual process development. The density and surface tension data for the TEGO IL K5 and the TEGO IL P51P were used in Aspen Plus, employing the Peng-Robinson Equation of state (P-R EOS) to obtain the critical properties of the two ILs; and the measured solubility data were also used to obtain the binary interaction parameters between the shifted gas constituents and two ILs. The Aspen Plus simulator was employed to develop a conceptual process for CO2 capture from a shifted fuel gas stream (102.52 kg/s) generated using Pittsburgh \# 8 coal for a 400 MWe power plant. The conceptual process developed consisted mainly of 4 adiabatic absorbers (2.4 m ID) arranged in parallel and packed with Plastic Pall Rings of 0.025 m for CO2 capture; 3 flash drums arranged in series for solvent regeneration using the pressure-swing option; and 2 pressure-intercooling systems for separating and pumping CO2 to the sequestration sites. The compositions of all process steams, CO2 capture efficiency, and net power were calculated using Aspen Plus for each solvent. The results indicated that, based on the composition of the inlet gas stream to the absorbers, 87.6 and 81.42 mol\% of CO2 were captured and sent to sequestration sites; and 97.69 and 97. 86 mol\% of H2 were separated and sent to turbines using the TEGO IL K5 and the TEGO IL P51P, respectively. Also, the two solvents exhibited minimum loss of 0.06 and 0.17 wt\% with a net power balance of -26.44 and -14.72 MW for the TEGO IL K5 and the TEGO IL P51P, respectively. Thus, the TEGO IL K5 could be selected as a physical solvent for CO2 capture from shifted hot fuel gas streams since large quantities of CO2 are absorbed.} } @article{pittir38846, volume = {2012}, title = {Symptom Status Predicts Patient Outcomes in Persons with HIV and Comorbid Liver Disease}, author = {Wendy A. Henderson and Angela C. Martino and Noriko Kitamura and Kevin H. Kim and Judith A. Erlen}, publisher = {Hindawi Limited}, year = {2012}, pages = {1--11}, journal = {AIDS Research and Treatment}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/38846/}, abstract = {Persons living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are living longer; therefore, they are more likely to suffer significant morbidity due to potentially treatable liver diseases. Clinical evidence suggests that the growing number of individuals living with HIV and liver disease may have a poorer health-related quality of life (HRQOL) than persons living with HIV who do not have comorbid liver disease. Thus, this study examined the multiple components of HRQOL by testing Wilson and Cleary?s model in a sample of 532 individuals (305 persons with HIV and 227 persons living with HIV and liver disease) using structural equation modeling. The model components include biological/physiological factors (HIV viral load, CD4 counts), symptom status (Beck Depression Inventory II and the Medical Outcomes Study HIV Health Survey (MOS-HIV) mental function), functional status (missed appointments and MOS-HIV physical function), general health perceptions (perceived burden visual analogue scale and MOS-HIV health transition), and overall quality of life (QOL) (Satisfaction with Life Scale and MOS-HIV overall QOL). The Wilson and Cleary model was found to be useful in linking clinical indicators to patient-related outcomes. The findings provide the foundation for development and future testing of targeted biobehavioral nursing interventions to improve HRQOL in persons living with HIV and liver disease.} } @article{pittir14145, volume = {7}, number = {2}, month = {February}, title = {Serum microrna biomarkers for detection of non-small cell lung cancer}, author = {PT Hennessey and T Sanford and A Choudhary and WW Mydlarz and D Brown and AT Adai and MF Ochs and SA Ahrendt and E Mambo and JA Califano}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14145/}, abstract = {Non small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality world-wide and the majority of cases are diagnosed at late stages of disease. There is currently no cost-effective screening test for NSCLC, and the development of such a test is a public health imperative. Recent studies have suggested that chest computed tomography screening of patients at high risk of lung cancer can increase survival from disease, however, the cost effectiveness of such screening has not been established. In this Phase I/II biomarker study we examined the feasibility of using serum miRNA as biomarkers of NSCLC using RT-qPCR to examine the expression of 180 miRNAs in sera from 30 treatment naive NSCLC patients and 20 healthy controls. Receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC) and area under the curve were used to identify differentially expressed miRNA pairs that could distinguish NSCLC from healthy controls. Selected miRNA candidates were further validated in sera from an additional 55 NSCLC patients and 75 healthy controls. Examination of miRNA expression levels in serum from a multi-institutional cohort of 50 subjects (30 NSCLC patients and 20 healthy controls) identified differentially expressed miRNAs. A combination of two differentially expressed miRNAs miR-15b and miR-27b, was able to discriminate NSCLC from healthy controls with sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) of 100\% in the training set. Upon further testing on additional 130 subjects (55 NSCLC and 75 healthy controls), this miRNA pair predicted NSCLC with a specificity of 84\% (95\% CI 0.73-0.91), sensitivity of 100\% (95\% CI; 0.93-1.0), NPV of 100\%, and PPV of 82\%. These data provide evidence that serum miRNAs have the potential to be sensitive, cost-effective biomarkers for the early detection of NSCLC. Further testing in a Phase III biomarker study in is necessary for validation of these results. {\copyright} 2012 Hennessey et al.} } @article{pittir21955, volume = {1}, number = {1}, title = {New directions in building a scientific social network: Experiences in the Supercourse project and application to Central Asia.}, author = {Meredith Hennon and Ronald E LaPorte and Eugene Shubnikov and Faina Linkov}, year = {2012}, pages = {3 -- ?}, journal = {Cent Asian J Glob Health}, keywords = {health societies, public health, social networking}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/21955/}, abstract = {Introduction: Networking leaders in the field of public health and medicine is very important for improving health locally and globally, especially in times of disaster. Methods: Fishing can best be defined as using an internet search engine to find the name and email address of the person or organization that is being sought. Results: With over 500 hours of work, the group compiled a list of nearly 2,000 email addresses of Ministers of Health, deans of the 1,800 medical schools and schools of public health, and heads of medical and public health societies.} } @unpublished{pittir12019, month = {May}, title = {Investigating c-Met Signaling in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer}, author = {Cassandra L Henry}, year = {2012}, keywords = {c-Met, HGF, EGFR, angiogenesis, STAT3}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12019/}, abstract = {Despite improvements in preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic approaches, lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. There are currently no effective therapies for those diagnosed with later stage lung cancer. Recent efforts have focused on targeting specific lung cancer-related growth pathways, such as the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/c-Met signaling pathway. HGF/c-Met signaling plays a critical role in mediating proliferation, angiogenesis, invasion, and inflammatory responses in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This signaling pathway also confers resistance to therapies targeting other growth factor pathways such as epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). This study focuses on two aspects of HGF/c-Met signaling relevant to lung cancer: HGF stimulated c-Met angiogenic response and EGFR ligand-induced c-Met pro-cancer signaling. We previously reported airway expression of a human HGF transgene (HGF TG) produced mice that were more susceptible to lung tumorigenesis induced by a tobacco carcinogen. Here we show untreated HGF TG mice display enhanced vascularization and lymph vessel formation in the lungs compared to wild-type (WT) littermates, as ascertained by microvessel density. Whole lung microarray analysis consistently found significant decreases in expression of genes involved in angiogenesis including the VEGF family of genes (Vegfa,Vegfb, Vegfc, Vegfd/Figf) at 10, 20, and 40 weeks of age in HGF TG animals compared to WT littermates. HGF TG lung tumors derived from carcinogen treated HGF TG mice demonstrated reduction in VEGF genes with an increased expression of five Cxcl family genes including Cxcl1 and Cxcl2 (murine forms of IL-8). Thus, increased vascularization produced by airway over-expression of HGF may occur through direct activation of c-Met on endothelial cells and expression of inflammatory mediators, rather than induction of VEGF pathways. Ligand-independent delayed and prolonged activation of c-Met has also been demonstrated previously by our laboratory via cross-talk from the EGFR pathway. Here we show that prolonged activation of STAT3 by EGFR-ligands is dependent on delayed c-Met activation. Inhibition of c-Met, by PHA665752, eliminates EGFR stimulated activation of STAT3 at delayed time points. The failure of Src inhibition, by PP2, to block delayed phospho-STAT3, and the co-immunoprecipitation of STAT3 with c-Met 8-24hours post EGF stimulation, suggests STAT3 is directly activated by c-Met. These data reinforce the idea that delayed c-Met activation is utilized by EGFR to potentiate its full biological effects through STAT3. Both ligand-dependent transient and ligand-independent delayed c-Met activation appear to be important in lung tumorigenesis. The findings of this study support future development of novel HGF/c-Met and EGFR combination therapies in NSCLC.} } @article{pittir15564, volume = {7}, number = {5}, month = {May}, title = {Transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation of spast, the gene most frequently mutated in hereditary spastic paraplegia}, author = {BJ Henson and W Zhu and K Hardaway and JL Wetzel and M Stefan and KM Albers and RD Nicholls}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15564/}, abstract = {Hereditary spastic paraplegias (HSPs) comprise a group of neurodegenerative disorders that are characterized by progressive spasticity of the lower extremities, due to axonal degeneration in the corticospinal motor tracts. HSPs are genetically heterogeneous and show autosomal dominant inheritance in {\texttt{\char126}}70-80\% of cases, with additional cases being recessive or X-linked. The most common type of HSP is SPG4 with mutations in the SPAST gene, encoding spastin, which occurs in 40\% of dominantly inherited cases and in {\texttt{\char126}}10\% of sporadic cases. Both loss-of-function and dominant-negative mutation mechanisms have been described for SPG4, suggesting that precise or stoichiometric levels of spastin are necessary for biological function. Therefore, we hypothesized that regulatory mechanisms controlling expression of SPAST are important determinants of spastin biology, and if altered, could contribute to the development and progression of the disease. To examine the transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation of SPAST, we used molecular phylogenetic methods to identify conserved sequences for putative transcription factor binding sites and miRNA targeting motifs in the SPAST promoter and 3?-UTR, respectively. By a variety of molecular methods, we demonstrate that SPAST transcription is positively regulated by NRF1 and SOX11. Furthermore, we show that miR-96 and miR-182 negatively regulate SPAST by effects on mRNA stability and protein level. These transcriptional and miRNA regulatory mechanisms provide new functional targets for mutation screening and therapeutic targeting in HSP. {\copyright} 2012 Henson et al.} } @unpublished{pittir13649, month = {August}, title = {Structure-Activity-Resistance Relationships of Novel Nucleoside and Nucleotide HIV-1 Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors}, author = {Brian Herman}, year = {2012}, keywords = {HIV-1 Reverse Transcriptase Drug Resistance Kinetics Nucleoside Reverse Trascriptase Inhibitor Nucleotide Reverse Trascriptase Inhibitor}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13649/}, abstract = {Nucleos(t)ide reverse transcriptase inhibitors (N(t)RTI) are essential components of combination antiretroviral therapy for treatment of human immunodeficiency virus type-1 (HIV-1) infection. N(t)RTI are analogs of natural 2?-deoxyribonucleos(t)ides that lack a 3?-hydroxyl. Once metabolized by host kinases to the active form, their incorporation into viral DNA by HIV-1 reverse transcriptase (RT) results in chain termination of DNA synthesis. N(t)RTI efficacy is undermined primarily by rapid selection of resistant/cross-resistant HIV-1 variants. Consequently, the development of novel N(t)RTI with activity against a broad range of N(t)RTI-resistant HIV-1 is of critical importance. Rational design of novel N(t)RTI with knowledge of analog structure-activity-resistance relationships with the RT target enzyme is the most promising approach. We hypothesized that uncovering knowledge of how N(t)RTI base, sugar, and phosphate structures influence activity and resistance phenotypes would aid in the rational design of new N(t)RTI with improved activity and resistance profiles. Therefore, a combination of biochemical, antiviral, molecular modeling, and cellular pharmacology analyses provided a detailed characterization of structure-activity-resistance relationships for inhibition of wild-type and NRTI-resistant HIV-1 by novel N(t)RTI. First, we studied two novel nucleoside phosphonate NtRTI, (R)-6-[2-phosphonylmethoxy]propoxy]-2,4-diaminopyrimidine (PMEO-DAPym) and (5-(6-amino-purin-9-yl)-4-fluoro-2,5-dihydro-furan-2-yloxymethyl)phosphonate (GS-9148). We showed the diphosphate (-DP) form, PMEO-DAPym-DP acts as a purine mimetic that is recognized by RT as an adenosine analog and unambiguously incorporated across from thymine (DNA) or uracil (RNA). Studies indicated that PMEO-DAPym-DP and GS-9148-DP were superior to tenofovir-DP against both discrimination and excision RT resistance mechanisms. Next, we examined structure-activity-resistance relationships of 6-modified, 3?-azido-2?,3?-dideoxyguanosine (3?-azido-ddG) NRTI analogs. In RT-mediated DNA synthesis assays the triphosphate (-TP) form of each analog behaved as an adenosine mimetic for incorporation by HIV-1 RT. Importantly, the structure-activity relationships for incorporation and ATP-mediated excision were different, suggesting that new analogs can be designed that are efficiently incorporated but poorly excised by RT. RS-788, a 5?-monophosphate prodrug of 3?-azido-2?,3?-dideoxy-2,6-diaminopurine (3?-azido-2,6-DA-P), displayed potent activity against multi-NRTI-resistant HIV-1 and unique cellular metabolism. RS-788 was metabolized {\texttt{\char126}}1:1 to both 3?-azido-2,6-DA-P and 3?-azido-ddG, thus delivering two distinct metabolites, each of which are potent RT chain-terminators that are incorporated opposite different bases, thymine and cytosine, respectively. Combinations of 3?-azido-2,6-DA-P+3?-azido-ddG synergistically inhibited multi-NRTI-resistant RT DNA synthesis.} } @article{pittir29969, volume = {5}, number = {1}, month = {December}, author = {Karen E Hermetz and Urvashi Surti and Jannine D Cody and M Katharine Rudd}, title = {A recurrent translocation is mediated by homologous recombination between HERV-H elements}, publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC}, journal = {Molecular Cytogenetics}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29969/}, abstract = {{\ensuremath{<}}jats:title{\ensuremath{>}}Abstract{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:title{\ensuremath{>}} {\ensuremath{<}}jats:sec{\ensuremath{>}} {\ensuremath{<}}jats:title{\ensuremath{>}}Background{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:title{\ensuremath{>}} {\ensuremath{<}}jats:p{\ensuremath{>}}Chromosome rearrangements are caused by many mutational mechanisms; of these, recurrent rearrangements can be particularly informative for teasing apart DNA sequence-specific factors. Some recurrent translocations are mediated by homologous recombination between large blocks of segmental duplications on different chromosomes. Here we describe a recurrent unbalanced translocation casued by recombination between shorter homologous regions on chromosomes 4 and 18 in two unrelated children with intellectual disability.{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:p{\ensuremath{>}} {\ensuremath{<}}/jats:sec{\ensuremath{>}} {\ensuremath{<}}jats:sec{\ensuremath{>}} {\ensuremath{<}}jats:title{\ensuremath{>}}Results{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:title{\ensuremath{>}} {\ensuremath{<}}jats:p{\ensuremath{>}}Array CGH resolved the breakpoints of the 6.97-Megabase (Mb) loss of 18q and the 7.30-Mb gain of 4q. Sequencing across the translocation breakpoints revealed that both translocations occurred between 92\%-identical human endogenous retrovirus (HERV) elements in the same orientation on chromosomes 4 and 18. In addition, we find sequence variation in the chromosome 4 HERV that makes one allele more like the chromosome 18 HERV.{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:p{\ensuremath{>}} {\ensuremath{<}}/jats:sec{\ensuremath{>}} {\ensuremath{<}}jats:sec{\ensuremath{>}} {\ensuremath{<}}jats:title{\ensuremath{>}}Conclusions{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:title{\ensuremath{>}} {\ensuremath{<}}jats:p{\ensuremath{>}}Homologous recombination between HERVs on the same chromosome is known to cause chromosome deletions, but this is the first report of interchromosomal HERV-HERV recombination leading to a translocation. It is possible that normal sequence variation in substrates of non-allelic homologous recombination (NAHR) affects the alignment of recombining segments and influences the propensity to chromosome rearrangement.{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:p{\ensuremath{>}} {\ensuremath{<}}/jats:sec{\ensuremath{>}}} } @unpublished{pittir16955, month = {December}, title = {INTERLEUKIN-17-MEDIATED ADAPTIVE IMMUNITY TO CANDIDA ALBICANS IN OROPHARYNGEAL CANDIDIASIS}, author = {Nydiaris Hernandez-Santos}, year = {2012}, keywords = {AIDS, HIV, thrush, white patches, fungal immunology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16955/}, abstract = {Oropharyngeal candidiasis is an opportunistic infection of the oral cavity caused by Candida albicans, a fungal member of the human commensal flora that causes disease only under conditions of immunosuppression. In HIV+ individuals, the onset of disease is directly correlated to a decrease in CD4+ T cell counts ({\ensuremath{<}}200 cells/mm3), suggesting that CD4+ T cells are important mediators of anti-Candida immunity. Previous studies demonstrated that IL-17 receptor A (IL-17RA) signaling is absolutely required for immunity to OPC. IL-17 is produced by a CD4+ T helper cell subset, Th17, and by a variety of innate immune cell types. Although it has always been assumed that CD4+ T cells are the primary mediators of immunity to C. albicans, the relative contribution of Th17 cells in the context of other, innate, sources of IL-17 had never been studied until now. We demonstrate that protective, antigen-specific Th17 cells develop upon secondary infection with C. albicans and contribute to fungal clearance from the tongue. Surprisingly, in the absence of CD4+ T cells, compensatory sources of IL-17, such as CD8+ T cells and CD3+CD4-CD8-, protect susceptible hosts from OPC. Our findings have important implications for designing vaccines targeted to immune compromised populations where it is necessary to harness residual immunity.} } @unpublished{pittir12062, month = {June}, title = {NARRATIVES OF IDENTITY AND MOTHERHOOD AMONG LATIN AMERICAN MIGRANT WOMEN}, author = {Yolanda Hern{\'a}ndez-Alb{\'u}jar}, year = {2012}, keywords = {gender, immigration, Latin America, identity}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12062/}, abstract = {This study analyses the experiences of 12 Latin American migrant mothers in Pittsburgh, PA. I explore the content and style of migrant women?s narratives about their motherhood roles from a phenomenological perspective. In particular, I explore the ways in which participants incorporate their motherhood experiences into accounts about themselves. I first analyze constructions of personal identity in the context of migration. Second, I explore the influences of motherhood and mothering on shaping personal self-perceptions. I conducted two interviews with each participant. The first interview aimed to explore the ways in which participants articulated their sense of identity in general, and the ways in which they positioned their roles as mothers within that broad narrative. That interview was videotaped and based upon a single open question: ?Who are you?? The participant was left alone to respond in order to limit biases linked to social desirability and research expectations. The second interview was a follow-up with open-ended questions. I used narrative analysis to explore and interpret the data. Since mothers are made, not born, I learned that as women regulate their behaviors and presentation of themselves into such dominant discourses, their identities also transform. For migrant mothers, this topic is a source of strong emotional and compassionate feelings due to the existing social demands to perform motherhood within dominant discourses on "good motherhood." Remarkably, the mothers in this research perceived such demands coming from two different sources, namely the receiving society and their own home countries. Mothering in the context of migration appears not only as a political and cultural practice, but also as a conceptual element to negotiate adjustment and change. This document develops as a reflexion on the practices of identity and the ways in which migrant women use their roles of mothers to reposition themselves in time and space, and reconstruct a new sense of self.} } @unpublished{pittir11977, month = {May}, title = {A HOLISTIC REDUNDANCY- AND INCENTIVE-BASED FRAMEWORK TO IMPROVE CONTENT AVAILABILITY IN PEER-TO-PEER NETWORKS}, author = {Octavio Herrera-Ruiz}, year = {2012}, keywords = {P2P, Availability, Redundancy, Incentives}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11977/}, abstract = {Peer-to-Peer (P2P) technology has emerged as an important alternative to the traditional client-server communication paradigm to build large-scale distributed systems. P2P enables the creation, dissemination and access to information at low cost and without the need of dedicated coordinating entities. However, existing P2P systems fail to provide high-levels of content availability, which limit their applicability and adoption. This dissertation takes a holistic approach to device mechanisms to improve content availability in large-scale P2P systems. Content availability in P2P can be impacted by hardware failures and churn. Hardware failures, in the form of disk or node failures, render information inaccessible. Churn, an inherent property of P2P, is the collective effect of the users? uncoordinated behavior, which occurs when a large percentage of nodes join and leave frequently. Such a behavior reduces content availability significantly. Mitigating the combined effect of hardware failures and churn on content availability in P2P requires new and innovative solutions that go beyond those applied in existing distributed systems. To addresses this challenge, the thesis proposes two complementary, low cost mechanisms, whereby nodes self-organize to overcome failures and improve content availability. The first mechanism is a low complexity and highly flexible hybrid redundancy scheme, referred to as Proactive Repair (PR). The second mechanism is an incentive-based scheme that promotes cooperation and enforces fair exchange of resources among peers. These mechanisms provide the basis for the development of distributed self-organizing algorithms to automate PR and, through incentives, maximize their effectiveness in realistic P2P environments. Our proposed solution is evaluated using a combination of analytical and experimental methods. The analytical models are developed to determine the availability and repair cost properties of PR. The results indicate that PR?s repair cost outperforms other redundancy schemes. The experimental analysis was carried out using simulation and the development of a testbed. The simulation results confirm that PR improves content availability in P2P. The proposed mechanisms are implemented and tested using a DHT-based P2P application environment. The experimental results indicate that the incentive-based mechanism can promote fair exchange of resources and limits the impact of uncooperative behaviors such as ?free-riding?.} } @inproceedings{pittir30153, volume = {71}, number = {8}, month = {April}, author = {Ryan Herringa and Mary Phillips and Jay Fournier and Dina Kronhaus and Anne Germain}, title = {Functional Neural Correlates of PTSD Symptoms and Trauma Exposure in Young Adult Combat Veterans}, journal = {BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY}, pages = {178S -- 179S}, year = {2012}, keywords = {post-traumatic stress, neuroimaging, child maltreatment, fMRI, trauma}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/30153/} } @unpublished{pittir11796, month = {June}, title = {Inconsumable Realities: Documenting Warfare, Britain 1914-1920}, author = {Claudia Heske}, year = {2012}, keywords = {First World War Realism New Journalism Modernism War Photography Censorship}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11796/}, abstract = { The concept of mimetic realism{--}how it functions in literature and its representational value{--}comes into sharp relief during the period when the First World War ensues. This dissertation proposes that the magnitude of atrocities caused by the First World War presents a crisis of representation such that the classic theory of realist representation comes into question. In response to the ultimate dystopia created by trench warfare, a variety of writers attempt to produce realistic portraits of the war while photography is widely used to show readers the allegedly most authentic version of the war front. In the study of those writing practices by journalists, novelists, and soldiers and of visual media by photojournalists, some key questions arise about the authorial discourse of war: who constructs it, how is it constructed, and by which means do these discourses secure the survival and longevity of one version of a war?s history and not another? I concentrate on texts produced by journalists, British literary writers{--}exemplified primarily by Virginia Woolf{--}and soldiers, who were prolific in their correspondence with family members on the home front, the chronicling of their experiences in diaries, and in reflections recorded in postwar memoirs. In all cases, I provide close-readings of texts to discern the ways each player is documenting the experience of war and in which ways each negotiates his or her writing practices within the lens of classic literary realism. I find that discursive practices become distinct according to a writer?s geographical proximity to the war front and are distinguished from the classic style of realism. I observe that journalism produces objective realism, the modern novelist produces mytho-synaesthetic realism, and soldiers produce synaesthetic realism. An examination of photography?s ocular realism in the context of war introduces the concept of the documentary record. A documentary photograph stretches the concept of realism as a literary style such that the commensurability of the real and its representational media comes to depend upon acknowledging the ability and willingness of a public to read the inconsumable, such as the horrific and traumatizing outcomes of mechanized warfare on the human body. } } @article{pittir29923, volume = {7}, number = {Suppl }, title = {Incidence and risk factors for lung cancer among women in the women?s interagency HIV study (WIHS) and men in the multicenter AIDS cohort study (MACS)}, author = {Nancy A Hessol and Otoniel Martinez-Maza and Alexandra Levine and Charles R Rinaldo and Joseph B Margolick and Mardge H Cohen and Lisa P Jacobson and Eric C Seaberg}, year = {2012}, pages = {O24 -- O24}, journal = {Infectious Agents and Cancer}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29923/} } @unpublished{pittir10473, month = {February}, title = {A NOVEL APPROACH FOR COMBINING BIOMECHANICAL AND MICRO-STRUCTURAL ANALYSES TO ASSESS THE MECHANICAL AND DAMAGE PROPERTIES OF THE ARTERY WALL}, author = {Michael Hill}, year = {2012}, keywords = {artery wall, elastin, collagen, structurally-motivated constitutive models, multi-mechanism, structural damage model}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10473/}, abstract = {Elastin and collagen have been described as the dominant passive load bearing proteins in the artery wall. The highly distensible elastin has been hypothesized to bear most of the load at low pressures, with the less distensible crimped collagen fibers uncoiling and thus becoming available to bear load as the overall tissue stretch is increased. Damage to elastin, a microstructural protein responsible for the elasticity of arteries, has been implicated in the pathogenesis of severe cardiovascular events. To analyze the structure-function relationship of the artery wall and the acute rupture of elastin, new mechanical testing systems were developed, combining uniaxial mechanical testing with non-destructive multi-photon imaging. By using this system to directly measure the distribution of collagen fiber recruitment stretches in the artery wall, a previous conjecture that collagen fibers begin to be recruited at a finite strain was verified. Collagen fiber recruitment was observed to initiate at a finite strain, under increasing extension along the circumference, corresponding to a sharp increase in the measured mechanical stiffness. To quantify this behavior, a new constitutive model was presented in which fiber recruitment begins at finite strain with subsequent individual fiber recruitment represented by a probability distribution function. Various isotropic models were fit to experimental data obtained from mechanical testing of isolated arterial elastin. Results suggested that a neo-Hookean model used in previous studies is suitable. A new structurally-motivated modeling approach was introduced, directly including structural information regarding the distribution of fenestrae in the internal elastic lamina. Acute elastin rupture in human cerebral arteries was analyzed with the new system. Elastin was modeled as an isotropic material with a scalar damage variable used to represent acute deformation-induced damage. Microscopic images revealed acute rupture of elastin: the internal elastic lamina was torn to reveal medial collagen underneath. These results provided new insights into the micro-structural and mechanical properties of the artery wall.} } @unpublished{pittir10503, month = {January}, title = {A CONTENT ANALYSIS COMPARING TEACHER ORGANIZATION REPRESENTATION OF THEIR POLICY-RELATED ACTIONS WITH PORTRAYAL OF THESE ACTIONS IN NATIONAL NEWSPAPERS}, author = {Jason T. Hilton}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Critical Theory, Critical Media Study, Teacher Unions, NEA, AFT, National Newspapers, Teacher Organization Portrayal}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10503/}, abstract = {This study is a critical content analysis interpreting how the policy-related actions of the National Education Association and the American Federation of Teachers are portrayed in the national newspaper discourse and how these portrayals compare/contrast with the way in which the two teacher organizations would like for their policy-related actions to be portrayed, as evidenced by each organization?s news releases. This analysis concludes that the National Education Association more often receives a negative portrayal in the national newspaper discourse than the American Federation of Teachers, and links this difference to numerous advantages, demonstrated by the AFT, in communicating its policy-related actions. This study concludes that both organizations, but particularly the National Education Association, would benefit from changes to the way in which they present their policy-related actions, so that each teacher organization may more effectively counter negative media portrayals. } } @incollection{pittir16523, volume = {7140 L}, month = {July}, title = {TBA: A hybrid of logic and extensional access control systems}, author = {TL Hinrichs and WC Garrison and AJ Lee and S Saunders and JC Mitchell}, year = {2012}, pages = {198 -- 213}, journal = {Lecture Notes in Computer Science (including subseries Lecture Notes in Artificial Intelligence and Lecture Notes in Bioinformatics)}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16523/}, abstract = {Logical policy-based access control models are greatly expressive and thus provide the flexibility for administrators to represent a wide variety of authorization policies. Extensional access control models, on the other hand, utilize simple data structures to better enable a less trained and non-administrative workforce to participate in the day-to-day operations of the system. In this paper, we formally study a hybrid approach, tag-based authorization (TBA ), which combines the ease of use of extensional systems while still maintaining a meaningful degree of the expressiveness of logical systems. TBA employs an extensional data structure to represent metadata tags associated with subjects and objects, as well as a logical language for defining the access control policy in terms of those tags. We formally define TBA and introduce variants that include tag ontologies and delegation. We evaluate the resulting system by comparing to well-known extensional and logical access control models. {\copyright} 2012 Springer-Verlag.} } @article{pittir15782, volume = {93}, number = {11}, month = {November}, author = {SV Hiremath and D Ding and J Farringdon and RA Cooper}, title = {Predicting energy expenditure of manual wheelchair users with spinal cord injury using a multisensor-based activity monitor}, journal = {Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation}, pages = {1937 -- 1943}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15782/}, abstract = {Objective: To develop and evaluate new energy expenditure (EE) prediction models for manual wheelchair users (MWUs) with spinal cord injury (SCI) based on a commercially available multisensor-based activity monitor. Design: Cross-sectional. Setting: Laboratory. Participants: Volunteer sample of MWUs with SCI (N=45). Intervention: Subjects were asked to perform 4 activities including resting, wheelchair propulsion, arm-ergometer exercise, and deskwork. Criterion EE using a metabolic cart and raw sensor data from a multisensor activity monitor was collected during each of these activities. Main Outcome Measures: Two new EE prediction models including a general model and an activity-specific model were developed using enhanced all-possible regressions on 36 MWUs and tested on the remaining 9 MWUs. Results: The activity-specific and general EE prediction models estimated the EE significantly better than the manufacturer's model. The average EE estimation error using the manufacturer's model and the new general and activity-specific models for all activities combined was -55.31\% (overestimation), 2.30\% (underestimation), and 4.85\%, respectively. The average EE estimation error using the manufacturer's model, the new general model, and activity-specific models for various activities varied from -19.10\% to -89.85\%, -18.13\% to 25.13\%, and -4.31\% to 9.93\%, respectively. Conclusions: The predictors for the new models were based on accelerometer and demographic variables, indicating that movement and subject parameters were necessary in estimating the EE. The results indicate that the multisensor activity monitor with new prediction models can be used to estimate EE in MWUs with SCI during wheelchair-related activities mentioned in this study. {\copyright} 2012 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine.} } @inproceedings{pittir17305, volume = {888}, month = {December}, title = {Environmental matching with limited displays}, author = {SC Hirtle and C Robles}, year = {2012}, pages = {19 -- 23}, journal = {CEUR Workshop Proceedings}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17305/}, abstract = {It is argued that to produce an informative spatial display on small devices one should focus on extracting distinctive features of the physical environment. These features can be communicated selectively to the user on small displays. By considering spatial, semantic, and visual information sources, one can generate cognitively adequate directions that foster spatial awareness, while limiting computational resources. This paper describes the issues involved in selecting appropriate elements within the cognitive collage of environmental spaces to generate such displays.} } @article{pittir29883, volume = {12}, number = {1}, month = {June}, title = {Preventing mental health problems in children: The Families in Mind population-based cluster randomised controlled trial}, author = {H Hiscock and JK Bayer and K Lycett and OC Ukoumunne and D Shaw and L Gold and B Gerner and A Loughman and M Wake}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Public Health}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29883/}, abstract = {Background: Externalising and internalising problems affect one in seven school-aged children and are the single strongest predictor of mental health problems into early adolescence. As the burden of mental health problems persists globally, childhood prevention of mental health problems is paramount. Prevention can be offered to all children (universal) or to children at risk of developing mental health problems (targeted). The relative effectiveness and costs of a targeted only versus combined universal and targeted approach are unknown. This study aims to determine the effectiveness, costs and uptake of two approaches to early childhood prevention of mental health problems ie: a Combined universal-targeted approach, versus a Targeted only approach, in comparison to current primary care services (Usual care). Methods/design: Three armed, population-level cluster randomised trial (20102014) within the universal, well child Maternal Child Health system, attended by more than 80\% of families in Victoria, Australia at infant age eight months. Participants were families of eight month old children from nine participating local government areas. Andomised to one of three groups: Combined, Targeted or Usual care. The interventions comprises (a) the Combined universal and targeted program where all families are offered the universal Toddlers Without Tears group parenting program followed by the targeted Family Check-Up one-on-one program or (b) the Targeted Family Check-Up program. The Family Check-Up program is only offered to children at risk of behavioural problems. Participants will be analysed according to the trial arm to which they were randomised, using logistic and linear regression models to compare primary and secondary outcomes. An economic evaluation (cost consequences analysis) will compare incremental costs to all incremental outcomes from a societal perspective. Discussion: This trial will inform public health policy by making recommendations about the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of these early prevention programs. If effective prevention programs can be implemented at the population level, the growing burden of mental health problems could be curbed. {\copyright} 2012 Hiscock et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir29816, volume = {11}, month = {October}, title = {Importance of glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation in advanced melanoma}, author = {J Ho and MB de Moura and Y Lin and G Vincent and S Thorne and LM Duncan and L Hui-Min and JM Kirkwood and D Becker and B Van Houten and SJ Moschos}, year = {2012}, journal = {Molecular Cancer}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29816/}, abstract = {Serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is a prognostic factor for patients with stage IV melanoma. To gain insights into the biology underlying this prognostic factor, we analyzed total serum LDH, serum LDH isoenzymes, and serum lactate in up to 49 patients with metastatic melanoma. Our data demonstrate that high serum LDH is associated with a significant increase in LDH isoenzymes 3 and 4, and a decrease in LDH isoenzymes 1 and 2. Since LDH isoenzymes play a role in both glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), we subsequently determined using tissue microarray (TMA) analysis that the levels of proteins associated with mitochondrial function, lactate metabolism, and regulators of glycolysis were all elevated in advanced melanomas compared with nevic melanocytes. To investigate whether in advanced melanoma, the glycolysis and OXPHOS pathways might be linked, we determined expression of the monocarboxylate transporters (MCT) 1 and 4. Analysis of a nevus-to-melanoma progression TMA revealed that MCT4, and to a lesser extend MCT1, were elevated with progression to advanced melanoma. Further analysis of human melanoma specimens using the Seahorse XF24 extracellular flux analyzer indicated that metastatic melanoma tumors derived a large fraction of energy from OXPHOS. Taken together, these findings suggest that in stage IV melanomas with normal serum LDH, glycolysis and OXPHOS may provide metabolic symbiosis within the same tumor, whereas in stage IV melanomas with high serum LDH glycolysis is the principle source of energy. {\copyright} 2012 Ho et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir14250, volume = {355}, number = {2}, month = {July}, author = {Harry Hochheiser and Bruce J Aronow and Kristin Artinger and Terri H Beaty and James F Brinkley and Yang Chai and Scott E Fraser and Benedikt Hallgrimsson and Junichi Iwata and Ophir Klein and Mary L Marazita and Jeffrey C Murray and Stephen Murray and Fernando Pardo-Manuel de Villena and John Postlethwait and Steven Potter and Linda Shapiro and Richard Spritz and Axel Visel and Seth M Weinberg and Paul A Trainor}, title = {The FaceBase Consortium: A comprehensive program to facilitate craniofacial research}, journal = {Developmental Biology}, pages = {175 -- 182}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14250/}, abstract = {The FaceBase Consortium consists of ten interlinked research and technology projects whose goal is to generate craniofacial research data and technology for use by the research community through a central data management and integrated bioinformatics hub. Funded by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) and currently focused on studying the development of the middle region of the face, the Consortium will produce comprehensive datasets of global gene expression patterns, regulatory elements and sequencing; will generate anatomical and molecular atlases; will provide human normative facial data and other phenotypes; conduct follow up studies of a completed genome-wide association study; generate independent data on the genetics of craniofacial development, build repositories of animal models and of human samples and data for community access and analysis; and will develop software tools and animal models for analyzing and functionally testing and integrating these data. The FaceBase website (http://www.facebase.org) will serve as a web home for these efforts, providing interactive tools for exploring these datasets, together with discussion forums and other services to support and foster collaboration within the craniofacial research community.} } @unpublished{pittir13431, month = {September}, title = {"Doubtful Characters": Alphabet Books and Battles over Literacy in Nineteenth-Century British Print Culture}, author = {A. Robin Hoffman}, year = {2012}, keywords = {print culture, literacy, illustrated books, history of childhood, alphabet, history of education, Victorian literature, British culture}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13431/}, abstract = {More than mere tools for reading instruction, alphabet books offered nineteenth-century writers and illustrators a site for contesting dominant versions of literacy. They could address broad audiences in a genre that was uniquely suited to registering shifts in the social and material conditions of publishing, literacy, and education. This historical study recovers these efforts and traces the genre?s co-evolution with Victorian ideas about literacy. It exploits an overlooked material archive in order to refocus attention from the history of rising literacy rates, toward concurrent debates over how visual and oral culture should complement printed text within domestic education and formal schooling. ?Doubtful Characters? focuses on figures prominent in Victorian publishing, and reveals how the alphabet books they designed resisted pedagogues? overweening emphasis on textual decoding. George Cruikshank, William Makepeace Thackeray, and Walter Crane promoted forms of visual literacy, including caricature and holistic book design. Edward Lear revived aspects of oral culture embedded within print. However, after national education reform (ca. 1870), alphabet illustration tended to leverage nostalgia against pedagogy. This is seen in works by Kate Greenaway and Hablot Knight Brown (?Phiz?). The study concludes by exploring satirical interpretations of the alphabet produced by Hilaire Belloc and Rudyard Kipling at the fin de si{\`e}cle, which reflected growing ambivalence about industrialized print culture. While recovering designers? strategic use of satire and production values in alphabet books, ?Doubtful Characters? resists assumptions about the transparent goals of didactic texts, and exposes the fragility of audience conventions. Satirical alphabets most clearly challenged a child-oriented perspective on literacy education and illustration that took hold by the turn of the twentieth century, and provided an effective platform for commenting on the ways that literacy was taught and exercised. But this study also shows how alphabet books deployed aesthetic theory, commercial contexts, and other rhetorical strategies in order to address adult audiences alongside or even instead of children. Through a combination of close reading, analysis of material culture, and historical contextualization of a series of illustrated alphabets, ?Doubtful Characters? demonstrate how the form routinely interrogated and promoted a configuration of relationships among media forms and audience categories.} } @article{pittir18036, volume = {74}, number = {1}, month = {September}, author = {J Hoffman}, title = {Raze the dead: Urban blight, private universities, and the path towards revitalization}, journal = {University of Pittsburgh Law Review}, pages = {85 -- 105}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18036/} } @unpublished{pittir13541, month = {August}, title = {Examination of Acute Care Nurses Ability to Engage in Patient Education Related to Physical Activity as a Health Behavior}, author = {Leslie Hoffman and Gretchen/E Zewe and Constance Bayles and Joyce Miketic and John Jakicic}, year = {2012}, keywords = {nursing, physical activity, exercise, physical activity guidelines, patient education, patient counseling}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13541/}, abstract = {Physical activity is important for management and prevention of chronic disease. The current physical activity guidelines recommend engaging in physical activity for at least 30 minutes per day on at least 5 days a week. Acute care settings may present opportunities for patient education about physical activity. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine the ability of acute care nurses to engage in patient education regarding physical activity as a health behavior. Additionally, this study examined the influence of level of nurse training, age, personal physical activity and years of experience on these outcomes. METHODS: Nurses from an academic medical center (N=194) were surveyed. Knowledge of current physical activity guidelines, rank of importance of physical activity as a patient care activity and a healthy lifestyle behavior, and confidence to counsel patients about physical activity were queried. RESULTS: Of nurses queried, 32.5\% reported days per week and 83\% reported minutes per day to engage in physical activity consistent with current guidelines. Physical activity counseling was ranked least important of ten patient care activities and fifth as a healthy lifestyle behavior. The majority of nurses (51\%) felt some degree of confidence to counsel patients regarding physical activity. Baccalaureate level nurses were more likely to be consistent with physical activity guidelines than master?s level nurses. Nurses {\ensuremath{<}}25 years of age were more current in knowledge of physical activity guidelines than nurses ?41 years of age. Nurses who exercised were more likely to report knowing current physical activity guidelines. Reported time spent counseling patientsregarding physical activity averaged 6 minutes per patient per day. CONCLUSION: Acute care nurses are counseling patients regarding physical activity although it is ranked least important of ten patient care activities. Future research should include studying: a variety of patient populations; other hospital settings; objective measures of evaluation; and nurses? training regarding physical activity.} } @article{pittir23395, volume = {100}, number = {8}, month = {February}, title = {Tin doped indium oxide core-TiO {\ensuremath{<}}inf{\ensuremath{>}}2{\ensuremath{<}}/inf{\ensuremath{>}} shell nanowires on stainless steel mesh for flexible photoelectrochemical cells}, author = {J Hong Noh and B Ding and H Soo Han and J Seong Kim and J Hoon Park and S Baek Park and H Suk Jung and JK Lee and K Sun Hong}, year = {2012}, journal = {Applied Physics Letters}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/23395/}, abstract = {Photoanode architecture is built on highly conductive tin doped indium oxide (ITO) nanowires (NWs) on a flexible stainless steel mesh (SSM). ITO nanowires were coated with the atomic layer deposition grown TiO 2 layer and the photoelectrochemical performance of the stainless steel mesh based photoanode were examined as a function of wire-length and shell-thickness. The photoanode consisting of 20 m-long nanowire core and 36 nm thick shell increased the photocurrent of the testing cell by 4 times, compared to a reference cell. This enhanced photochemical activity is attributed to higher light harvesting efficiency of nanowire arrays and suppressed charge recombination of core-shell structure. {\copyright} 2012 American Institute of Physics.} } @unpublished{pittir11382, month = {June}, title = {?LITTLE KINGDOMS?: ADAT AND INEQUALITY IN THE KEI ISLANDS, EASTERN INDONESIA }, author = {Todd Hooe}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Indonesia Adat Law Cultural Politics Ethnicity Democratization Post-Suharto}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11382/}, abstract = {In the Kei islands, adat (custom or tradition) and social hierarchy are inextricably intertwined. This dissertation highlights the entanglements of rank and adat through an analysis of the mobilization of ?tradition? by the Kei elite during both the New Order and post-Suharto periods. My central argument is that the construction of tradition is intimately tied to the creation and justification of inequality within Kei society. Over the past twenty years, the Kei elite (i.e., the mel-mel) have articulated particular visions of adat in order to maintain their dominance in the face of local, national and global challenges and uncertainties. The longitudinal approach of this research problematizes the distinction commonly made between the depoliticization of adat during the New Order and the adat revivalism of the post-Suharto years. Based on ethnographic research from 1994 to 1996, as well as a variety of secondary sources of data from the post-Suharto period, it is argued that adat revivalism in the Kei islands emerged in a New Order context in which the mel-mel successfully captured the state bureaucracy and its resources. During the New Order, adat emerged not only as a powerful symbol of Kei identity, but also as a salient resource in local political life. This is demonstrated through an analysis of constructions of adat during state-sponsored rituals and the discourse and practice of Kei adat law. This dissertation then examines continuities in the mobilization of tradition during the post-Suharto period, focusing on adat reconciliation rituals, efforts to establish and maintain adat territories and communities, the commoditization of adat titles, and the rearticulation of adat prohibitions (sasi). Based on these analyses, it is argued that over the past twenty years, high-ranking individuals, both inside and outside the local government, have appropriated adat as the proprietary domain of the Kei aristocracy. As a result, elite articulations of adat have contributed to the rigidification of Kei social hierarchy. Thus, while constructions of tradition may amplify distinctions between cultural insiders and outsiders, this study shows that they may also result in the sharpening of divisions and inequalities within adat communities. } } @article{pittir15901, volume = {7}, number = {9}, month = {September}, author = {Jill M Hooley and Greg Siegle and Staci A Gruber}, title = {Affective and Neural Reactivity to Criticism in Individuals High and Low on Perceived Criticism}, publisher = {Public Library of Science (PLoS)}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, pages = {e44412 -- e44412}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15901/} } @unpublished{pittir11836, month = {June}, title = {"I HAVE NOTHING TO SAY AND I AM SAYING IT": COLLABORATION, COLLAGE, AND THE MEETING OF INDETERMINACIES IN AMERICAN AVANT-GARDE PERFORMANCES OF THE 1960S}, author = {Elizabeth Hoover}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Earle Brown, John Cage, Merce Cunningham, indeterminacy, collage, multimedia performance}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11836/}, abstract = {When approaching the 1960s, histories of the United States commonly emphasize the dynamic movements of the decade such as fighting for equality, traveling through space and moving upwards in ?the Great Society.? These movements captivated both the eyes and ears of Americans through a collage of television, radio, records, newspapers, magazines and journals{--}a multi-mediated culture that fashioned new political platforms for change. Whereas the roles of popular musicians during the 1960s have been well researched, investigations of American avant-garde music have been limited to studies of individual composers and their compositional methods, largely ignoring these musicians? role in the germination of a collective consciousness that questioned established aesthetic paradigms and cultivated unique exchanges between multiple forms of artistic media. This study focuses on the so-called ?New York School?{--}a diverse group comprised of, among others, John Cage, Earle Brown, Morton Feldman, Christian Wolff, and David Tudor. I reassess the cultural, social and aesthetic importance of these figures by examining their work in multimedia collaborations. I offer three case studies each organized around an avant-garde event whose premiere performance and/or subsequent renditions marked the 1960s. Chapter 2 elucidates the interplay of indeterminate and determined relations between collaborators in John Cage?s and Merce Cunningham?s Variations V by conceptualizing a ?collage of authorities? that thematizes a Derridean play of diff{\'e}rance. In Chapters 3 and 4, I detail the textual and perceptual collage that reinforces a Bergsonian notion of order in the ?feedback conditions? of Earle Brown?s Calder Piece. In Chapter 5, I unravel and analyze the surfaces of Merce Cunningham?s choreography, Robert Rauschenberg?s d{\'e}cor and Morton Feldman?s music, which together creates a performative collage in the ballet Summerspace. I argue that, as multitudinous collages, these collaborations continued the modernist legacy of questioning conventional musical (and visual) languages while simultaneously projecting traits we now associate with postmodernism, such as theatricality and potentiality through variously constituted indeterminacies. Questioning the very grounds of mainstream communication, these dynamic events offered their own terms for linking politics and aesthetics during the 1960s.} } @article{pittir17865, volume = {13}, number = {1}, author = {Katie Elizabeth Hopkins}, title = {UNIQUE LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS IN REALITY TELEVISION}, publisher = {University Library System, University of Pittsburgh}, journal = {Pittsburgh Journal of Technology law and Policy}, pages = {1 -- 26}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17865/}, abstract = {Jill Mouser was hoisted into a ?harness of pain? for a period of forty minutes, leaving her screaming in excruciating misery, all for a reality television program, Culture Shock, that never aired. Following this stunt, Mouser was injected with morphine and taken off to the hospital. Mouser filed suit against CBS for injuries resulting from filming the show. Mouser had signed two different waivers of her rights before partaking in the aforementioned stunt.} } @article{pittir17796, volume = {14}, number = {1}, month = {January}, author = {M Horn and H Mayr and E Lac{\^o}te and E Merling and J Deaner and S Wells and T McFadden and DP Curran}, title = {N-heterocyclic carbene boranes are good hydride donors}, journal = {Organic Letters}, pages = {82 -- 85}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17796/}, abstract = {The nucleophilicity parameters (N) of 1,3-bis(2,6-diisopropylphenyl) imidazol-2-ylidene borane and 1,3-dimethylimidazol-2-ylidene borane are 9.55 and 11.88. This places N-heterocyclic carbene boranes (NHC-boranes) among the most nucleophilic classes of neutral hydride donors. Reductions of highly electron-poor C=N and C=C bonds provide hydrogenation products along with new, stable borylated products. The results suggest that NHC-boranes have considerable untapped potential as neutral organic reductants. {\copyright} 2011 American Chemical Society.} } @unpublished{pittir13681, month = {September}, title = {Towards an Empirical Test for the Reasonable Person Standard in Bioethics}, author = {Elijah Horowitz}, year = {2012}, keywords = {bioethics, reasonable person, medical ethics, reasonable person standard, empirical ethics}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13681/}, abstract = {As Robert Veatch observes, bioethics as a field is fundamentally oriented towards being ?applied to real problems of the real world.? That is, although theories of ethics do play a role in the field, these theories must be ?integrate[d]?with detailed knowledge of the relevant facts and customs of a particular sphere of life.? One way of making this progression is to follow the two-tiered system of standard and operational test such as that used by Allen Buchanan and Dan Brock in their discussion of their balancing model of competence. In this paper I will argue in favor of a representative (although not na{\"i}ve) empirical operational test for the reasonable person standard. In each of the three sections that comprise the first chapter, I will identify the normative goals of a bioethical context and compare the reasonable person standard to its main competitors in light of those goals. Then, in the second half of the paper, I will defend both the reasonable person standard itself and the use of empirical data as an operational test for it. This defense will only be a partial one, however, as there are certain limits to the empirical approach. The goal of this paper is to show how empirical data can be used, albeit with some limitations, to help bring some clarity and precision to a standard that is often criticized for lacking precisely those qualities.} } @unpublished{pittir11941, month = {July}, title = {Social Contexts of Young Moms in the Lake Patzcuaro Basin: Adolescent Motherhod, Gender and the Challenge of Social Pressure}, author = {Katharine Rose Horowitz}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Mexico, adolescent motherhood, gender, social pressure, qualitative, social context, focus groups}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11941/}, abstract = {While quantitative and risk-centric literature on adolescent motherhood has long examined potential adverse health outcomes for mother and child, qualitative research has only more recently endeavored to represent the social contexts and lived experiences of young mothers themselves. This study conducted focus group discussions (FGDs) and participant observations in Erongar{\'i}cuaro, M{\'e}xico in June 2011 with women from the Lake P{\'a}tzcuaro Basin. Twenty women from 5 towns comprised 3 FGDs, each meeting twice. Participants were 18 to 27, 80\% having given birth to their first child before 20. Focus group guides included questions related to adolescent and present perceptions and experiences of motherhood; family/community reactions; sexual health confidants; family planning; gender meanings; and social support. Audio-recorded data were transcribed and analyzed using open and guided coding. Final quotations were translated into English. Four major themes emerged from analysis: La familia, expected gender roles, social pressure, and contestation and coping. Participants reported the importance of la familia to their social contexts, living with either family of origin or partner?s family after the baby was born. Women living with their partner?s family described increased stress in navigation of new roles. Traditional gender roles were described as more strictly expected once they became mothers, especially by mothers-in-law and other older women. Social pressure, in the form of gender role policing, criticism from mothers-in-law, and stigma around adolescent motherhood, was said to cause great stress for young women. Participants said that through a fluid combination of coping and contestation, they found strategies to deal with the challenges they faced. The public health significance of these regionally-specific findings is their utility in elaborating social determinants of health in this context. Enriching understandings of adolescent experiences, related social contexts, and contexts of transitioning to motherhood will strengthen current efforts to improve reproductive and psychosocial outcomes for adolescents and their children. Interventions should seek to support pregnant and parenting teens. In the Lake P{\'a}tzcuaro Basin, programming should seek to address social pressures and gender challenges facing young mothers, as well as an understanding of la familia and the kinds of coping and contestation that represent young mothers? strength.} } @unpublished{pittir13171, month = {July}, title = {Transcriptional Regulation of Alpha-synuclein by GATA2 in Substantia Nigra}, author = {Max Horowitz}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Parkinson's disease, GATA transcription factor, rotenone, alpha-synuclein, in situ hybridization, GATA2}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13171/}, abstract = {Parkinson?s disease (PD) is a chronic, progressive movement disorder that affects millions of patients and their families worldwide. Treatment options address some of the symptoms but do not affect the progression of the disease. Central to the motor symptoms of PD are due, in part, to the slow, progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) and the consequent depletion of dopaminergic neurotransmission in the striatum. As these cells die, they accumulate toxic levels of various substances, such as the aggregation-prone protein alpha-synuclein (a-syn, SNCA) and iron. It is known that expression of SNCA is aberrantly high in SNc dopaminergic neurons in the PD brain, but the transcriptional mechanisms that participate in this dysregulation are poorly understood. Recently, GATA2, a transcription factor known for its critical role in hematopoiesis, was shown to regulate SNCA positively and directly in vitro; however, it is unknown whether this mode of regulation occurs in vivo and is thereby relevant to PD. In this dissertation project, we assessed the relevance of GATA2 in PD by testing two hypotheses in a mammalian model: 1) GATA2 positively regulates SNCA in vivo in SNc neurons, and 2) silencing GATA2 expression in SNc neurons confers protection against the parkinsonian neurotoxin, rotenone. To test these hypotheses, it was necessary first to validate rat as a suitable model for investigating GATA2 function in adult brain and to develop reagents for silencing GATA2 expression in vivo. Using a viral-mediated gene silencing approach, we found that GATA2 positively regulates SNCA in SNc dopaminergic neurons in adult rat. However, silencing GATA2 was not protective against rotenone treatment in the rat model of PD. Our findings are significant in that they provide the first in vivo demonstration of a transcription factor that regulates SNCA, a gene of central importance to PD pathogenesis. Although our data suggest that GATA2 is not a useful therapeutic target for PD, our findings shed some light on the role of GATA2 in adult SNc dopaminergic neurons, thus contributing to our understanding of GATA transcription factor biology in the adult brain.} } @unpublished{pittir11939, month = {June}, title = {Rhetoric(s) of the Black Church: Sex, Religion, and HIV/AIDS Across the African Diaspora}, author = {Christopher House}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Black Church, HIV/AIDS, Rhetoric, African Diaspora, Religion, Caribbean, United States, Africa, Health Communication}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11939/}, abstract = {This dissertation examines the rhetorical strategies, underpinnings, and justifications of Black Disaporic religious rhetoric and pastoral communication surrounding the HIV/AIDS crisis that disproportionately affects people of African descent. Specifically, this dissertation focuses on three areas of the world currently ravaged by AIDS--sub-Saharan Africa, the Caribbean, and the United States--as they can best provide a representative sample of both world-wide HIV/AIDS cases and diverse Christian churches that speak to the multitudes on a weekly, sometimes daily, basis through a culturally geographic and theologically grounded rhetoric. This study employs rhetorical criticism, oral history theory, and critical ethnography as lenses in examining the representative samples of pastoral communication collected in Africa (Kenya, Uganda, and South Africa), the Caribbean (Jamaica and the Bahamas) and the Washington, D.C. area. Together, over thirty-five Protestant pastors, bishops, and religious leaders of African descent from these respective regions were interviewed for this study. Additionally several African, Caribbean, and African-American faith-based, medical and non-governmental organizational leaders were interviewed. Excerpts of HIV/AIDS religious rhetorics used in this dissertation suggest that there is a struggle deep within the soul of the church that is fluidly situated within a highly nuanced Du Boisian double-consciousness, in terms of the religious response to HIV/AIDS as it cuts across sexuality, sexual orientation, and gender, in particular. Thus, each chapter of this dissertation gives critical attention to the suasive strategies employed by religious leaders as they seek to reconcile salient and subtle tensions identified within their pulpitized religious rhetorics on HIV/AIDS with the wider social, epidemiological, and etiological contexts, intersections, and implications of their religiously grounded messages.} } @unpublished{pittir11832, month = {May}, title = {Tour(ist)ing Post-Apartheid South African Theatre: The Works of Brett Bailey, Yael Farber, and Mpumelelo Paul Grootboom in (Inter)National Production}, author = {Kellen Hoxworth}, year = {2012}, keywords = {South African theatre, intercultural theatre, international arts festivals, hegemony theory, national identity, performance, authenticity, cultural authority}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11832/}, abstract = {After the fall of apartheid in 1994, South Africa and its theatre-makers faced a pressing question: what now? This thesis investigates how three South African dramatists negotiated the exigencies of theatre production in post-apartheid South Africa. Brett Bailey, Yael Farber, and Mpumelelo Paul Grootboom developed idiosyncratic theatrical forms experimenting with notions of ?authentic? South African identity, both theatrically and culturally. Through inventive theatrical recombinations, all three dramatists formed canons around particular South African performance traditions and cultural sources. The first half of this thesis analyzes the negotiations of these new, divergent forms as ?authentic? (re)presentations of South Africa as a whole. The latter half of this thesis scopes out to interrogate the effects of such authorizing structures on an international scale. Deploying theories of tourism and museum cultures from John Urry, Barbara Kirshenblatt-Gimblett, and others, this thesis asserts that international theatre festivals create ?museums of plays? for global spectators. These festivals privilege particular forms of theatre, namely the ?Hegemonic Intercultural Theatre? defined by Daphne P. Lei, which typically constructs syncretic ?intercultural? works by adding ?cultural? (i.e. non-Western) elements to Western stories and structures. Like tourism and museum cultures, the international theatre market places great value on ?authentic? cultural objects, creating an exchange market for variably different cultural products. The impacts of these systems on post-apartheid South African theatre are multiple. Notably, between 2003 and 2008, all three dramatists premiered new works that directly reimagined European source material (MoLoRa, Orfeus, and Foreplay). Such appropriation of ?Western? cultural material raises important questions concerning the long-term trajectory of South African theatre. Namely, lacking dedicated funding domestically, South African theatre-makers have often found larger audiences and profits from touring their works to international theatre festivals, primarily those located in Europe. With both textual sources and productions tending towards Euroamerican spectators, South African theatre faces the threat of becoming ?South African? product shaped primarily by international beliefs of and demands for ?South Africa.? Thus, the international traffic and travel of South African theatre over the past two decades begs the very question of South African theatre?s putative ?South Africanness.?} } @unpublished{pittir13439, month = {August}, title = {NAVIGATION SUPPORT AND SOCIAL VISUALIZATION FOR PERSONALIZED E-LEARNING}, author = {I-Han Hsiao}, year = {2012}, keywords = {navigation support, social visualization, e-learning, open student modeling}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13439/}, abstract = {A large number of educational resources is now made available on the Web to support both regular classroom learning and online learning. However, the abundance of available content produced at least two problems: how to help students to find the most appropriate resources and how to engage them into using these resources and benefit from them. Personalized and social learning have been suggested as potential ways to address these problems. This work attempts to combine the ideas of personalized and social learning by providing navigation support through an open social student modeling visualization. A series of classroom studies exploited the idea of the approach and revealed promising results, which demonstrated the personalized guidance and social visualization combined helped students to find the most relevant resources of parameterized self-assessment questions for Java programming. Thus, this dissertation extend the approach to a larger collection of learning objects for cross content navigation and verify its capability of supporting social visualization for personalized E-Learning. The study results confirm that working with the non-mandatory system, students enhanced the learning quality in increasing their motivation and engagement. They successfully achieved better learning results. Meanwhile, incorporating a mixed collection of content in the open social student modeling visualizations effectively led the students to work at the right level of questions. Both strong and weak student worked with the appropriate levels of questions for their readiness accordingly and yielded a consistent performance across all three levels of complexities. Additionally, providing a more realistic content collection on the navigation supported open social student modeling visualizations results in a uniform performance in the group. The classroom study revealed a clear pattern of social guidance, where the stronger students left the traces for weaker ones to follow. The subjective evaluation confirms the design of the interface in terms of the content organization. Students? positive responses also compliment the objective system usage data.} } @incollection{pittir19533, booktitle = {Lecture Notes in Computer Science}, title = {Motivational Social Visualizations for Personalized E-Learning}, author = {I-Han Hsiao and Peter Brusilovsky}, publisher = {Springer Berlin Heidelberg}, year = {2012}, pages = {153 -- 165}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19533/} } @inproceedings{pittir13297, month = {July}, title = {Comparative social visualization for personalized E-learning}, author = {IH Hsiao and J Guerra and D Parra and F Bakalov and B K{\"o}nig-Ries and P Brusilovsky}, year = {2012}, pages = {303 -- 307}, journal = {Proceedings of the Workshop on Advanced Visual Interfaces AVI}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13297/}, abstract = {Social learning has confirmed its value in enhancing the learning outcomes across a wide spectrum. To support social learning, a visual approach is a common technique to represent and organize multiple students' data in an informative way. This paper presents a design of comparative social visualization for E-learning, which encourages information discovery and social comparisons. Classroom studies confirmed the motivational impact of personalized social guidance provided by the visualization in the target context. The visualization encouraged students to do some work ahead of the course schedule. Moreover, class leaders provided an implicit social guidance for the rest of the class and successfully led the way to discover the most relevant resources creating good trails for the rest of the class. We summarized the evidence of students' engagement and performance through the social visualization interface. {\copyright} 2012 ACM.} } @unpublished{pittir12429, month = {September}, title = {NAVIGATING AN ERA OF CONVERGENCE: COMPETITIVE CONSEQUENCES OF ALLIANCE EXPERIENCE AND ATTENTION FOCUS}, author = {Tsuhsiang Hsu}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Industry Evolution, Industry Convergence, Alliance, Product Market Competition}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12429/}, abstract = {Industry Convergence is impacting multi-billion dollar markets including at least 50\% of top 500 firms? industries in the U.S. Yet, this phenomenon is underdeveloped in both theorizing and operationalization. A limited research on convergence almost exclusively focuses on macro-level structure changes, while we know little about strategic implications of firm-level entrepreneurial actions in this context. Until two or more industries converge, they can be easily differentiated; where they converge, there is neither one nor another but only a new industry. This presents a unique context for advancing the understanding of our theories as well as managerial practices. I structure my dissertation into two essays to explore two sets of firm-level actions. My first essay examines the sequential relationship between alliance experience and interindustry initial acquisitions. Building on organizational learning and resource dependence theory, this study reveals the condition that firms do not rely on alliance to make subsequent acquisition. In my second essay, I propose that firms need to develop a deep depth of field (i.e. competing with a great number of heterogeneous competitors) in order to sustain performance during an era of convergence. A deep depth of field is analogous to a picture in which the foreground and background are both in focus. Using product market competition among firms in the telecommunications equipment and computer networking industries during the 1991-2003 period, I validate this argument. With the depth of field construct, this study bridges the attention-based view and industry evolution research. I also create two empirical indicators for measuring the extent and the locus of industry convergence. } } @unpublished{pittir10818, month = {January}, title = {Social and Transmission Contact Network Analysis of Epidemic Dynamics in Agent-Based Models}, author = {Jiawei Huang}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Transmission network analysis, agent-based model}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10818/}, abstract = {This thesis aims to do social network analysis on synthetic population that is used in FRED system and develop transmission network analysis tools to analyze disease epidemic dynamics in agent-based models of infectious disease. The social network of synthetic Allegheny County population consists 1.2M agents. The synthetic population is proved to be an integrated component with average shortest path is 6.91. The risks of being infected for age groups are positively related to the average degree of each group. Although degree distribution has bifurcating pattern, it is still reasonable and conservative to use the synthetic population for modeling disease transmission. Tools are developed to analyze the transmission network, which generated by FRED simulations. Three tools, TraceAnalysis, StatisticalAnalysis and EpidemicDynamicPlot, were developed to calculate statistics of transmission networks, to make inference on statistics from different simulation scenarios and to plot epidemic curves. The tools are used to analyze the effectiveness of public policies. School closure and vaccination policies were chosen from FRED to be compared with the baseline FRED, which is run with no intervention policy. The results from network analysis tools indicate the dependency between agents' infection location. Special transmission patterns can be found by comparing the discrepancy between the number and expected number of transmission patterns. The public health importance of network analysis tools is to find out the contact tracing motifs, to reveal the strong dependency of locations where infection events happened and to compare the effectiveness of different public intervention policies in agent-based models.} } @unpublished{pittir13636, month = {September}, title = {Data Cleaning, Preliminary Summary and Evaluation of Diagnostic Criteria of T-Cell Data in a Juvenile Onset Diabetes Cohort}, author = {Yihe Huang}, year = {2012}, keywords = {T1DM, autoantibody, data cleaning, preliminary summary, stimulation index, positive antigen, ROC, optimal cutoff}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13636/}, abstract = {Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is an autoimmune disease manifested by an autoimmune attack on pancreatic beta-islet cells. T1DM can occur at any age. However, it is most often diagnosed in children, adolescents, or young adults. My thesis is derived from a large longitudinal study of Juvenile Onset Diabetes (JOD) at Children?s Hospital of Pittsburgh. The objectives are: 1) Data cleaning and preliminary summary of the cohort with respect to T-cell data. 2) Evaluating the T-cell data criteria used for the prediction of the diabetes. An extensive data examination was made for accuracy and consistency. A preliminary summary of the stimulation index (SI) for the test analytes and the number of positive antigens was performed by demographic sub-groups, HLA-DQ serotype, and follow up time. Using the ROC analysis, an evaluation of diagnosis test performance based on two different criteria was performed. The JOD dataset had few errors with an error rate under 0.5\%. The accuracy and consistency of the data is good. New onsets and first degree relatives (FDRs) nonconverters had a relatively stable SI as well as positive antigen tests results. The SI level and positive test results are higher in new onsets when compared with FDRs. FDR-converters (those subsequently developing diabetes) prior to using insulin have SIs and number of positive antigens similar to FDR-nonconverters; and FDR-converters after starting insulin have results similar to new onsets. The recommended SI cutoff of 1.5 indicating positive response appears reasonable. However, the cutoff still may be optimized for better prediction. Evidence suggests that a lower cutoff within 1.25 to 1.5 may be better and the number of positive antigens could move from ?4 to greater than 5 or 6. Public health significance: Development of a better understanding of the pattern of T-cell response in diabetes and non-diabetic children, and those progressing to diabetes, may give us tools to predict the early onset of disease. It is this point in time where therapeutic intervention could be focused to help stem the development of T1DM or to dramatically reduce its severity.} } @unpublished{pittir6204, month = {December}, title = {Discovery of Small Molecule Inhibitors of Protein-Protein Interactions}, author = {Yijun Huang}, year = {2012}, keywords = {protein-protein interaction, small molecule inhibitor, multicomponent reaction, p53-Mdm2, structure based drug design, drug discovery}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/6204/}, abstract = {Protein-protein interactions (PPIs) constitute an emerging class of targets for the next generation of therapeutic intervention. Despite their fundamental role in many biological processes and diseases such as cancer, PPIs are still largely underrepresented in drug discovery. Although small molecule PPI inhibitors are highly valuable due to a number of advantages relative to biological agents in terms of production, delivery, titratability and cost, the robust discovery of lead compounds remains a great challenge. Two structure-based drug discovery strategies are described in this work to generate small molecules to target PPIs. A receptor-based drug discovery approach can be applied when an accurate three-dimensional (3D) structure of a specific PPI complex is available. A novel, complementary and transformative approach for the rational design of small molecule inhibitors based on the crystal structure of the p53-Mdm2 complex was developed. This method is based on a tight interplay of structural biology information, the ?anchor? concept, efficient chemical synthesis via multicomponent reactions (MCRs), as well as virtual and real screening processes. Applying the method we efficiently discovered several new scaffolds of inhibitors of the p53/Mdm2 interaction with lower micromolar affinity binding to Mdm2, which can serve as starting point for medicinal chemistry optimization. Advantages of our approach include high hit rates and less attrition based on the parallel discovery of multiple scaffolds, built-in optimization pathways using efficient MCRs, and fast generation of potential lead compounds. Potential anticancer drug candidates were identified by biochemical assays, co-crystallization, cell based assays, as well as further preclinical evaluations (solubility, metabolism, pharmacokinetics, and xenograft studies). A ligand-based drug discovery approach was explored since PPIs are critically dependent on ?anchor? residues, which can serve as the pharmacophore model for small molecules. Multicomponent reactions were employed for design of novel scaffolds and DOS of drug-like compounds, since hit identification of PPI inhibitors via traditional approaches such as high throughput screening (HTS) is fundamentally limited by chemotypes present in the library collections. Novel and diverse scaffolds based on the privileged structures (1,4-benzodiazepines, 1,4-thienodiazepines) and ?anchor? residues, which can be accessible from multicomponent reactions, were designed and synthesized. Compared with conventional methods, these approaches are advantageous to generate small molecules targeting PPIs in terms of efficiency, diversity, and economy. In summary, the approaches described in this dissertation constitute important contributions to the fields of medicinal chemistry and structure-based drug discovery, which combine structural insights and ligand design to expedite the discovery of novel small molecule inhibitors of PPIs.} } @unpublished{pittir16991, month = {December}, title = {Aggregate level association between prenatal care and infant mortality rate}, school = {University of Pittsburgh}, author = {Yongxu Huang}, publisher = {University of Pittsburgh}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16991/}, abstract = {Objectives: The objectives of this study include understanding the association between adequate prenatal care and the infant mortality rate (IMR) at the aggregate level and studying the effects of other factors, such as race and income, on the association. Methodology: IMR and the rate of pregnant women who receive prenatal care during the first trimester (PNC) were examined. Annual state-level aggregate data from 1997 to 2005 were extracted. Covariance of IMR and PNC was calculated. Scatterplots of IMR versus PNC were drawn. Two-variable and multivariable regressions were used to study the effects of several factors, including PNC on IMR. Results: Substantial differences were observed in IMR and PNC across states within the US. An insignificant inverse association between PNC and IMR was observed at the aggregate level for data from 1997 to 2005. Significant inverse associations were observed between IMR and the percentage of Non-Hispanic White population, the percentage of Hispanic population, and income level. Conclusions: Differences in IMR and PNC across states were observed. PNC has a modest effect on reducing IMR. Race and income level may have more significant impacts on IMR. Public health relevance: High infant mortality leads to high social and economic costs. Previous studies suggested that inadequate prenatal care is associated with adverse birth outcomes, such as preterm birth and infant mortality. It is possible that ensuring the availability of early prenatal care during the first trimesters could help reduce IMR. In addition, reducing health disparities between different racial and income groups could help reduce the IMR in the US.} } @unpublished{pittir10558, month = {January}, title = {ROBUST LOW-RANK MATRIX FACTORIZATION WITH MISSING DATA BY MINIMIZING L1 LOSS APPLIED TO COLLABORATIVE FILTERING}, author = {Shama M Huda}, year = {2012}, keywords = {L1 norm minimization, collaborative filtering, medical applications}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10558/}, abstract = {In this age of information overload and plethora of choices, people increasingly rely on automatic recommender systems to tell them what suits their needs. A very effective approach for creating recommender systems is collaborative filtering, which is the task of predicting the preference/rating that a user would assign to an item based on preference data of that user and preference data of other users. One way to conduct collaborative filtering is through dimensionality reduction. The underlying concept of the approach lies in the belief that there are only a few features (reduced dimensions) that influence the user?s choice. In this paper we use low rank matrix factorization for dimensionality reduction. Singular Value Decomposition (SVD), which is minimizing the L2 norm is the most popular technique to perform matrix factorization. However, in most recommendation system data sets, often the users only rate a small amount of items, which creates missing data. As a result SVD fails. In recent years L1 norm has gained much importance and popularity because it is robust to outliers and missing data. In this thesis we use alternate convex optimization to perform L1 norm minimization to solve the matrix factorization problem and apply it to collaborative filtering. We also review some of the major challenges that collaborative filtering faces today and some of the other techniques used. Additionally, this thesis discusses the importance and future of collaborative filtering in medical applications that concerns the database of patient history (prescriptions/symptoms) and how it can be used as a predictive task for the future of the patient. } } @unpublished{pittir12501, month = {September}, title = {Rotational dynamic postural stability test}, author = {Megan Hufnagel}, year = {2012}, keywords = {dynamic postural stability, ACL injury, tibial rotation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12501/}, abstract = {Dynamic postural stability is an important measurement that is used in valuable clinical assessments, such as evaluating risk factors for injury or determining the progress of neuromuscular rehabilitation. It is commonly measured during jump landing tasks. Currently, the tasks used to measure dynamic postural stability are only conducted in uniplanar directions which fail to replicate the athletic environment. A single-leg hop stabilization task that incorporates a rotational component of the body would be more challenging and more closely resemble mechanisms of injury, particularly to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Therefore, the goal of this study was to develop a test of dynamic postural stability that includes a rotational component and measure its reliability and precision. The task was performed by fourteen college club and intramural athletes. Each subject performed two test sessions, with thirty minutes in between. In each session, five trials in both rotation directions were collected for each subject. To determine intersession reliability, the intraclass correlation (ICC 2,k and 2,1) and the standard error of measurement (SEM) were calculated for the DPSI scores between sessions. For rotation medially, the ICC (2,k) was 0.885 and the SEM was 0.086. For rotation laterally, the ICC (2,k) was 0.926 and the SEM was 0.139. These results support that the DPSI, assessed using a rotational jump landing task, is a reliable and precise measurement that is acceptable to use in future research. } } @article{pittir29829, volume = {11}, month = {September}, title = {Effects of weight loss and insulin reduction on arterial stiffness in the SAVE trial}, author = {TM Hughes and AD Althouse and NA Niemczyk and MS Hawkins and AL Kuipers and K Sutton-Tyrrell}, year = {2012}, journal = {Cardiovascular Diabetology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29829/}, abstract = {Background: Chronic arterial stiffness contributes to the negative health effects of obesity and insulin resistance, which include hypertension, stroke, and increased cardiovascular and all-cause mortality. Weight loss and improved insulin sensitivity are individually associated with improved central arterial stiffness; however, their combined effects on arterial stiffness are poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to determine how insulin levels modify the improvements in arterial stiffness seen with weight loss in overweight and obese young adults.Methods: To assess the effects of weight loss and decreased fasting insulin on vascular stiffness, we studied 339 participants in the Slow the Adverse Effects of Vascular Aging (SAVE) trial. At study entry, the participants were aged 20-45, normotensive, non-diabetic, and had a body-mass index of 25-39.9 kg/m2. Measures of pulse wave velocity (PWV) in the central (carotid-femoral (cfPWV)), peripheral (femoral-ankle (faPWV)), and mixed (brachial-ankle (baPWV)) vascular beds were collected at baseline and 6 months. The effects of 6-month change in weight and insulin on measures of PWV were estimated using multivariate regression.Results: After adjustment for baseline risk factors and change in systolic blood pressure, 6-month weight loss and 6-month change in fasting insulin independently predicted improvement in baPWV but not faPWV or cfPWV. There was a significant interaction between 6-month weight change and change in fasting insulin when predicting changes in baPWV (p {\ensuremath{<}} 0.001). Individuals experiencing both weight loss and insulin reductions showed the greatest improvement in baPWV.Conclusions: Young adults with excess weight who both lower their insulin levels and lose weight see the greatest improvement in vascular stiffness. This improvement in vascular stiffness with weight loss and insulin declines may occur throughout the vasculature and may not be limited to individual vascular beds.Trial registration: NCT00366990. {\copyright} 2012 Hughes et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir29853, volume = {14}, number = {4}, month = {July}, title = {Mucocutaneous candidiasis: The IL-17 pathway and implications for targeted immunotherapy}, author = {AR Huppler and S Bishu and SL Gaffen}, year = {2012}, journal = {Arthritis Research and Therapy}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29853/}, abstract = {IL-17 and related cytokines are direct and indirect targets of selective immunosuppressive agents for the treatment of autoimmune diseases and other diseases of pathologic inflammation. Insights into the potential adverse effects of IL-17 blockade can be drawn from the experience of patients with deficiencies in the IL-17 pathway. A unifying theme of susceptibility to mucocutaneous candidiasis is seen in both mice and humans with a variety of genetic defects that converge on this pathway. Mucocutaneous candidiasis is a superficial infection of mucosal, nail or skin surfaces usually caused by the fungal pathogen Candida albicans. The morbidity of the disease includes significant pain, weight loss and secondary complications, including carcinoma and aneurysms. This review describes the known human diseases associated with chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis (CMC) as well as the known and proposed connections to IL-17 signaling. The human diseases include defects in IL-17 signaling due to autoantibodies (AIRE deficiency), receptor mutations (IL-17 receptor mutations) or mutations in the cytokine genes (IL17F and IL17A). Hyper-IgE syndrome is characterized by elevated serum IgE, dermatitis and recurrent infections, including CMC due to impaired generation of IL-17-producing Th17 cells. Mutations in STAT1, IL12B and IL12RB1 result in CMC secondary to decreased IL-17 production through different mechanisms. Dectin-1 defects and CARD9 defects result in susceptibility to C. albicans because of impaired host recognition of the pathogen and subsequent impaired generation of IL-17-producing T cells. Thus, recent discoveries of genetic predisposition to CMC have driven the recognition of the role of IL-17 in protection from mucosal fungal infection and should guide counseling and management of patients treated with pharmacologic IL-17 blockade. {\copyright} 2012 BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir11811, month = {June}, title = {DEVELOPMENT AND MECHANISTIC STUDY OF A PEPTIDE BASED METHODOLOGY FOR THE PREPARATION OF NANOPARTICLE SUPERSTRUCTURES}, author = {Leekyoung Hwang}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Biomimetic synthesis; peptides; self-assembly; nanoparticles; nanoparticle assembly}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11811/}, abstract = {The aim of this research is to develop and generalize a peptide-based methodology for inorganic nanoparticle assembly and to understand the underlying mechanism governing the synthesis and assembly process. This research is based on a new methodology to synthesize complex and well-organized nanoparticle superstructures that the Rosi group has developed. This method relies on the use of peptide conjugate molecules to direct both synthesis and the assembly of the nanoparticles. To accomplish goals of this research, new peptide conjugates were designed and synthesized in order to program substantial amounts of information into the peptide conjugate molecules. Their self-assembly has been studied and their ability to direct nanoparticle synthesis and self-assembly has been studied. The research details how modifications to the peptide sequence can impact the resulting structure formation. Fundamental studies were also performed to understand the mechanistic factors underlying this methodology. The key criteria for preparing highly-ordered nanoparticle superstructures were also investigated using this methodology. Ultimately, this approach will lead to precise control over the shape, composition, and interparticle distance within nanoparticle superstructures. } } @unpublished{pittir13247, month = {September}, title = {THE DEVELOPMENT OF ANTISOCIAL BEHAVIOR: GENES, BRAIN AND ENVIRONMENT AS DIRECT AND INTERACTIVE PREDICTORS OF ANTISOCIAL BEHAVIOR FROM EARLY CHILDHOOD TO YOUNG ADULTHOOD}, author = {Luke Williamson Hyde}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Antisocial behavior; conduct disorder; fMRI; neuroimaging; molecular genetics; callous-unemotional; violence;}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13247/}, abstract = {Antisocial behavior (AB), including physical and sexual aggression, destruction of property, theft, and violation of serious rules, has been of particular interest to researchers and the general public because of its large cost to society and negative impact on perpetrators and victims, its chronic nature and trajectory, and the difficulty in preventing and treating AB. Although recent views of AB have emphasized the complex interplay between biology and the environment (Jaffee et al., 2005; Reiss, 2005; Rutter, 1997), little empirical work has connected genetic variability, neural reactivity and environmental risk in understanding the development of AB in early adulthood. Thus, the current study sought to advance our understanding of AB in an ethnically diverse sample of 310 young men followed prospectively from age 1.5 to age 20 through measurement of amygdala reactivity to threat, variability in genes affecting serotonin signaling, cumulative environmental risk during early childhood and early adolescence, and measures of AB during adolescence and at age 20. Contrary to our hypotheses, we found that AB across adolescence and at age 20 was related to lower amygdala reactivity to threat, regardless of the level of callous traits also present. Also contrary to our hypotheses, we found that variants in serotonin genes previously linked to lower amygdala reactivity were related to callous traits as well as AB in the presence of high callousness. Imaging genetics models that linked variability in specific serotonin genes, amygdala reactivity, and AB were not supported. Similarly, little support was found for Imaging Gene by Environment interactions in which the interactions between genetic variability and environmental risk were linked to AB via their association with neural reactivity. Results highlight the difficulty in testing complex models of the likely interactions between genes, brain and environment in understanding AB and suggest a specific role of amygdala reactivity in AB.} } @unpublished{pittir6230, month = {February}, title = {MARKOV DECISION PROCESS MODELS FOR IMPROVING EQUITY IN LIVER ALLOCATION}, author = {ZEYNEP GOZDE ICTEN}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Markov decision processes, dynamic programming, optimal stopping, structured optimal policies, Pareto optimality, sensitivity analysis, medical decision making, organ transplantation, information asymmetry, societal welfare.}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/6230/}, abstract = {In the United States, end-stage liver disease (ESLD) patients are prioritized primarily by their Model for End-stage Liver Disease score (MELD) to receive organ offers. Therefore, patients are required to update their MELD score at predefined frequencies that depend on the patient's last reported score. One aim of this dissertation is to mitigate inequities that stem from patients' flexibility regarding MELD score updates. We develop a Markov decision process (MDP) model to examine the degree to which an individual patient can benefit from the updating flexibility, and provide a menu of updating requirements that balance inequity and data processing more efficiently than the current updating requirements. We also derive sufficient conditions under which a structured optimal updating policy exists. As the coordinator of the harvesting Organ Procurement Organization (OPO) extends offers according to MELD score prioritization, the organ becomes less desirable. To avoid not placing the organ, the OPO coordinator can initiate an expedited placement, i.e., offer the organ to a transplant center, which can then allocate it to any of its patients. A second aim of this dissertation is to mitigate inequities induced by the OPO coordinator's premature departure from the prioritized list of patients via an expedited placement. As a preliminary step to studying the inequity induced by expedited liver placement, we conduct an extensive analysis of the current expedited liver placement practice based on recent data. We investigate different aspects of extending offers, e.g., the number of offers extended concurrently, and patients' response characteristics. Several of the results from this analysis serve as inputs for a second MDP model that examines how many concurrent offers the OPO coordinator should extend and when the coordinator should initiate an expedited placement. Numerical experimentation reveals a structured optimal policy, and we test the sensitivity of the model outcomes with respect to changes in model inputs. Lastly, we examine how our model outputs compare to the analogous measures observed in current practice and how they can be used to improve current practice.} } @article{pittir21359, volume = {34}, month = {April}, title = {The southernmost records of Rebbachisauridae (Sauropoda: Diplodocoidea), from early Late Cretaceous deposits in central Patagonia}, author = {LM Ibiricu and GA Casal and MC Lamanna and RD Mart{\'i}nez and JD Harris and KJ Lacovara}, year = {2012}, pages = {220 -- 232}, journal = {Cretaceous Research}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/21359/}, abstract = {We describe new and redescribe previously discovered sauropod dinosaur material from the Upper Cretaceous (middle Cenomanian-Turonian) Bajo Barreal Formation of south-central Chubut Province, central Patagonia, Argentina. The remains consist of associated and isolated axial skeletal elements recovered from three separate localities, and are herein assigned to the morphologically aberrant Rebbachisauridae clade. Several of the fossils exhibit osteological characters that were previously undocumented in rebbachisaurids, enhancing our understanding of the morphological diversity of this enigmatic sauropod group. In particular, the Bajo Barreal material demonstrates the occurrence within Rebbachisauridae of bifurcate neural spines in cervical vertebrae and well-developed, presumably pneumatic fossae in caudal vertebrae; among Diplodocoidea, these distinctive morphologies had previously been recognized only in flagellicaudatans. Furthermore, the Bajo Barreal fossils constitute the southernmost known occurrences of Diplodocoidea, adding to the globally sparse Late Cretaceous record of these sauropods and augmenting our knowledge of central Patagonian terrestrial vertebrate assemblages during this interval. {\copyright} 2011 Elsevier Ltd.} } @article{pittir29952, volume = {16}, number = {1}, month = {February}, title = {Beyond checklists: Using clinician prompts to achieve meaningful ICU quality improvement}, author = {O Idahosa and JM Kahn}, year = {2012}, journal = {Critical Care}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29952/} } @unpublished{pittir11669, month = {June}, title = {How Young Adults Learned About Sexual Health}, author = {Alexandra Illes}, year = {2012}, keywords = {sexual health, education, parents, media, qualitative, young adults, adolescent, sexuality education, }, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11669/}, abstract = {Quality sexual health education is a significant influence on how decisions are made throughout one?s life. In order to make safe and healthy choices, like wearing condoms, getting tested for sexually transmitted infections, and being prepared for puberty, quality sexual health education is needed. This qualitative study at the University of Pittsburgh involved interviews with a total of 11 people, nine females and two males. All of the interviewees were college educated and ranged in age from 21 to 25 years old. Understanding the sources of people?s sexual health education is important because it can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of current sexual health education practices, parental involvement, and media influence, and how these can be improved. Looking retrospectively at how young adults have received their sexual health education provides a critical look at how their knowledge has influenced their lives to this point, and what they now know on the subject. Several public health relevant themes emerged in this study; sexual health education is needed and wanted earlier in life, should be provided in a realistic way, and should include parental involvement. Inaccurate or inadequate sexual health education can lead to being unprepared for puberty, ignoring symptoms of sexually transmitted infections, and using contraceptives incorrectly. When people are provided with correct, accurate and comprehensive sexual health information they can make better decisions, like being prepared for puberty, getting tested for sexually transmitted infections, and using contraceptives correctly. } } @article{pittir25144, volume = {13}, title = {LGBT Taxpayers: A Collision of 'Others'}, author = {Anthony C Infanti}, year = {2012}, journal = {Georgetown Journal of Gender and the Law}, keywords = {tax, gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, sex reassignment, gender, medical expense, intersectionality, otherness}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/25144/} } @article{pittir25146, volume = {32}, month = {April}, author = {Anthony C Infanti}, note = {Source info: Virginia Tax Review, Vol. 32, p. 205, 2012}, title = {Tax Reform {\ensuremath{<}}I{\ensuremath{>}}Dis{\ensuremath{<}}/I{\ensuremath{>}}course}, journal = {Virginia Tax Review}, pages = {205 -- 205}, year = {2012}, keywords = {tax, reform, discourse, economic growth, subordinated, disadvantaged, human development}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/25146/} } @article{pittir38843, volume = {2012}, title = {Convergence Analysis of a Fully Discrete Family of Iterated Deconvolution Methods for Turbulence Modeling with Time Relaxation}, author = {R. Ingram and C. C. Manica and N. Mays and I. Stanculescu}, publisher = {Hindawi}, year = {2012}, pages = {1--32}, journal = {Advances in Numerical Analysis}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/38843/}, abstract = {We present a general theory for regularization models of the Navier-Stokes equations based on the Leray deconvolution model with a general deconvolution operator designed to fit a few important key properties. We provide examples of this type of operator, such as the (modified) Tikhonov-Lavrentiev and (modified) Iterated Tikhonov-Lavrentiev operators, and study their mathematical properties. An existence theory is derived for the family of models and a rigorous convergence theory is derived for the resulting algorithms. Our theoretical results are supported by numerical testing with the Taylor-Green vortex problem, presented for the special operator cases mentioned above.} } @article{pittir24245, volume = {97}, number = {1}, month = {January}, author = {S Ishii and JA Cauley and CJ Crandall and P Srikanthan and GA Greendale and MH Huang and ME Danielson and AS Karlamangla}, title = {Diabetes and femoral neck strength: Findings from the hip strength across the menopausal transition study}, journal = {Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism}, pages = {190 -- 197}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/24245/}, abstract = {Context: Diabetes mellitus is associated with increased hip fracture risk, despite being associated with higher bone mineral density in the femoral neck. Objective: The objective of the study was to test the hypothesis that composite indices of femoral neck strength, which integrate dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry derived femoral neck size, femoral neck areal bone mineral density, and body size and are inversely associated with hip fracture risk, would be lower in diabetics than in nondiabetics and be inversely related to insulin resistance, the primary pathology in type 2 diabetes. Design: This was a cross-sectional analysis. Setting and Participants: The study consisted of a multisite, multiethnic, community-dwelling sample of 1887 women in pre- or early perimenopause. Outcome Measurements: Composite indices for femoral neck strength in different failure modes (axial compression, bending, and impact) were measured. Results: Adjusted for age, race/ethnicity, menopausal stage, body mass index, smoking, physical activity, calcium and vitamin D supplementation, and study site, diabetic women had higher femoral neck areal bone mineral density [+0.25 SD, 95\% confidence interval (CI) (+0.06, +0.44) SD] but lower composite strength indices [+0.20 SD, 95\% CI (-0.38, -0.03) SD for compression, -0.19 SD, 95\% CI (-0.38, -0.003) SD for bending, -0.19 SD, 95\% CI (-0.37, -0.02) SD for impact] than nondiabetic women. There were graded inverse relationships between homeostasis model-assessed insulin resistance and all three strength indices, adjusted for the same covariates. Conclusions: Despite having higher bone density, diabetic women have lower indices of femoral neck strength relative to load, consistent with their documented higher fracture risk. Insulin resistance appears to play an important role in bone strength reduction in diabetes. Copyright {\copyright} 2012 by The Endocrine Society.} } @article{pittir17716, volume = {7}, number = {12}, month = {December}, title = {Identifying Ligand Binding Conformations of the {\ensuremath{\beta}}2-Adrenergic Receptor by Using Its Agonists as Computational Probes}, author = {B Isin and G Estiu and O Wiest and ZN Oltvai}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17716/}, abstract = {Recently available G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) structures and biophysical studies suggest that the difference between the effects of various agonists and antagonists cannot be explained by single structures alone, but rather that the conformational ensembles of the proteins need to be considered. Here we use an elastic network model-guided molecular dynamics simulation protocol to generate an ensemble of conformers of a prototypical GPCR, {\ensuremath{\beta}}2-adrenergic receptor ({\ensuremath{\beta}}2AR). The resulting conformers are clustered into groups based on the conformations of the ligand binding site, and distinct conformers from each group are assessed for their binding to known agonists of {\ensuremath{\beta}}2AR. We show that the select ligands bind preferentially to different predicted conformers of {\ensuremath{\beta}}2AR, and identify a role of {\ensuremath{\beta}}2AR extracellular region as an allosteric binding site for larger drugs such as salmeterol. Thus, drugs and ligands can be used as "computational probes" to systematically identify protein conformers with likely biological significance. {\copyright} 2012 Isin et al.} } @article{pittir16454, month = {December}, title = {Confidentiality-preserving and fault-tolerant in-network aggregation for Collaborative WSNs}, author = {MK Iskander and AJ Lee and D Mosse}, year = {2012}, pages = {107 -- 116}, journal = {CollaborateCom 2012 - Proceedings of the 8th International Conference on Collaborative Computing: Networking, Applications and Worksharing}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16454/}, abstract = {In Collaborative WSNs, sensing devices are owned and operated by different stakeholders with incentive to preserve the confidentiality of their individual sensors readings while contributing to statistics computed by the group. In such systems, in-network data processing presents high efficiency for energy and bandwidth, but unfortunately introduces several challenges related to data security and fault tolerance. {\copyright} 2012 ICST.} } @article{pittir29892, volume = {13}, month = {May}, title = {Immune Mediators of protective and pathogenic immune responses in patients with mild and fatal human monocytotropic ehrlichiosis}, author = {N Ismail and DH Walker and P Ghose and YW Tang}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Immunology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29892/}, abstract = {Background: Ehrlichia chaffeensis is a bacterial pathogen that causes fatal human monocytic ehrlichiosis (HME) that mimic toxic shock-like syndrome. Murine studies indicate that over activation of cellular immunity followed by immune suppression plays a central role in mediating tissue injury and organ failure during fatal HME. However, there are no human studies that examine the correlates of resistance or susceptibility to severe and fatal HME.Results: In this study, we compared the immune responses in two patients with mild/non fatal and severe/fatal HME who had marked lymphopenia, thrombocytopenia and elevated liver enzymes. The levels of different immunological factors in the blood of those patients were examined and compared to healthy controls. Our data showed that fatal HME is associated with defective production of Th1 cytokines such as ( IFN{\ensuremath{\gamma}} and IL-2), increased anti-inflammatory (IL-10 and IL-13) and pro-inflammatory (TNF-{\ensuremath{\alpha}}, IL-1{\ensuremath{\alpha}}, IL-1{\ensuremath{\beta}}, and IL-6) cytokines, increased levels of macrophages, T cells, and NK cells chemokines such as MCP-1, MIP-1{\ensuremath{\alpha}}, MIP-1{\ensuremath{\beta}}, but not RANTES and IP-10, increased levels of neutrophils chemokine and growth factor (IL-8 and G-CSF), and elevated expression of tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR), and toll like receptors 2 and 4 compared to patients with non fatal HME and healthy controls.Conclusions: Fatal Ehrlichia-induced toxic shock is associated with defective Th1 responses, possible immune suppression mediated by IL-10. In addition, marked leukopenia observed in patients with fatal disease could be attributed to enhanced apoptosis of leukocytes and/or elevated chemokine production that could promote migration of immune cells to sites of infection causing tissue injury. {\copyright} 2012 Ismail et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir10898, month = {June}, title = {Antineutrino Oscillations and A Search for Non-standard Interactions with the MINOS Experiment}, author = {Zeynep Isvan}, year = {2012}, keywords = {neutrino oscillation, non-standard interactions}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10898/}, abstract = {MINOS searches for neutrino oscillations using the disappearance of muon neutrinos from the NuMI beam at Fermilab between two detectors. The Near Detector, located near the source, measures the beam composition before flavor change occurs. The energy spectrum is measured again at the Far Detector after neutrinos travel a distance. The mixing angle and mass splitting between the second and third mass states are extracted from the energy dependent difference between the spectra at the two detectors. NuMI is able to produce an antineutrino-enhanced beam as well as a neutrino-enhanced beam. Collecting data in antineutrino-mode allows the direct measurement of antineutrino oscillation parameters. From the analysis of the antineutrino mode data we measure {\ensuremath{|}}?m?2atm{\ensuremath{|}} = 2.62+0.31?0.28 {$\times$} 10?3eV2 and sin2(2{\ensuremath{\theta}}?23) = 0.95+0.10?0.11, which is the most precise measurement of antineutrino oscillation parameters to date. A difference between neutrino and antineutrino oscillation parameters may indicate new physics involving interactions that are not part of the Standard Model, called non-standard interactions, that alter the apparent disappearance probability. Collecting data in neutrino and antineutrino mode independently allows a direct search for non-standard interactions. In this dissertation non-standard interactions are constrained by a combined analysis of neutrino and antineutrino datasets and no evidence of such interactions is found.} } @unpublished{pittir12160, month = {June}, title = {IMAGINING THE MODERN NATION-STATE VIA ZHANG JIAN?S MUSEUM}, author = {XIAOQIAN JI}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Museum, China, Modern Nation-state, Identity}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12160/}, abstract = {My object in this thesis is the possibilities and limitations of the museum both as an educational and communicative space and as a significant process in the project of constructing a modern nation-state. Through a study of Zhang Jian?s ideals and practices in the museum{--}the classification and organization of the collections, the style and layout of its architectural complexes, as well as his management and educational endeavors{--}this paper demonstrates the manifold ways in which Zhang?s museum can be read as the reconstruction of a China which excludes the Manchu and thereby refashions this China as an equal agent.} } @unpublished{pittir13571, month = {September}, title = {Perceiving Multiplicity}, author = {Anjana Jacob}, year = {2012}, keywords = {perceptual multiplicity, acquaintance, relationalism, representationalism,frege puzzle, disjunctivism, campbell, martin, peacocke, mcdowell, perceptual justification, empirical justificaiton, intentionalism, conscious attention, modes of presentation, perceptual subject, individuation of experience, scenario content, protopropositional content, hallucination, binding parameter, propositional justification, partiality of experience, receptivity, perceptual demonstratives, naive realism, introspective indiscriminability, self-consciousness}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13571/}, abstract = {Experience presents us with multiple entities and with connections and differences between them. This multiplicity in experience is the basis of the justification experience is supposed to provide for belief. I argue that neither the newly resurgent Relational approach to perception nor the predominant Representational approach can account for this core feature. The former views experience in terms of a primitive experiential relation between the subject and the world, and the latter in terms of a subject?s relation to representational contents. My arguments emphasize that experience which justifies a complex proposition, such as that something has multiple properties, must also justify the propositions entailed, such as that something has each of those individual properties. This requires the experience to have multiple ?objects? (ranging over ordinary objects, properties or states). When these are treated as terms of a relation, there is no room to explain the presentation of connections between them as required for the justification of the complex proposition. This difficulty assails the Representational view as well for it appeals to multiple contents treated as multiple terms of a representational relation. I argue that no explanation of the justificatory unity of the terms is forthcoming. This failure stems from inadequately distinguishing empirical justification from rational justification. The difference must lie in empirical justification being sensitive to the object of perception in a way that rational justification is not. I argue that for this to be so, experience must be understood as necessarily partial and the only way to adequately account for this is to regard the subject as the unity of the experience. The common failure of Relational and Representational views then traces to their adopting a framework that wrongly reifies the subject. } } @article{pittir29835, volume = {9}, month = {September}, title = {A buffered form of creatine does not promote greater changes in muscle creatine content, body composition, or training adaptations than creatine monohydrate}, author = {AR Jagim and JM Oliver and A Sanchez and E Galvan and J Fluckey and S Riechman and M Greenwood and K Kelly and C Meininger and C Rasmussen and RB Kreider}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29835/}, abstract = {Background: Creatine monohydrate (CrM) has been consistently reported to increase muscle creatine content and improve high-intensity exercise capacity. However, a number of different forms of creatine have been purported to be more efficacious than CrM. The purpose of this study was to determine if a buffered creatine monohydrate (KA) that has been purported to promote greater creatine retention and training adaptations with fewer side effects at lower doses is more efficacious than CrM supplementation in resistance-trained individuals.Methods: In a double-blind manner, 36 resistance-trained participants (20.2 {$\pm$} 2 years, 181 {$\pm$} 7 cm, 82.1 {$\pm$} 12 kg, and 14.7 {$\pm$} 5\% body fat) were randomly assigned to supplement their diet with CrM (Creapure? AlzChem AG, Trostberg, Germany) at normal loading (4 x 5 g/d for 7-days) and maintenance (5 g/d for 21-days) doses; KA (Kre-Alkalyn?, All American Pharmaceutical, Billings, MT, USA) at manufacturer's recommended doses (KA-L, 1.5 g/d for 28-days); or, KA with equivalent loading (4 x 5 g/d for 7-days) and maintenance (5 g/d) doses of CrM (KA-H). Participants were asked to maintain their current training programs and record all workouts. Muscle biopsies from the vastus lateralis, fasting blood samples, body weight, DEXA determined body composition, and Wingate Anaerobic Capacity (WAC) tests were performed at 0, 7, and 28-days while 1RM strength tests were performed at 0 and 28-days. Data were analyzed by a repeated measures multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) and are presented as mean {$\pm$} SD changes from baseline after 7 and 28-days, respectively.Results: Muscle free creatine content obtained in a subgroup of 25 participants increased in all groups over time (1.4 {$\pm$} 20.7 and 11.9 {$\pm$} 24.0 mmol/kg DW, p = 0.03) after 7 and 28-days, respectively, with no significant differences among groups (KA-L -7.9 {$\pm$} 22.3, 4.7 {$\pm$} 27.0; KA-H 1.0 {$\pm$} 12.8, 9.1 {$\pm$} 23.2; CrM 11.3 {$\pm$} 23.9, 22.3 {$\pm$} 21.0 mmol/kg DW, p = 0.46). However, while no overall group differences were observed (p = 0.14), pairwise comparison between the KA-L and CrM groups revealed that changes in muscle creatine content tended to be greater in the CrM group (KA-L -1.1 {$\pm$} 4.3, CrM 11.2 {$\pm$} 4.3 mmol/kg DW, p = 0.053 [mean {$\pm$} SEM]). Although some significant time effects were observed, no significant group x time interactions (p {\ensuremath{>}} 0.05) were observed in changes in body mass, fat free mass, fat mass, percent body fat, or total body water; bench press and leg press 1RM strength; WAC mean power, peak power, or total work; serum blood lipids, markers of catabolism and bone status, and serum electrolyte status; or, whole blood makers of lymphocytes and red cells. Serum creatinine levels increased in all groups (p {\ensuremath{<}} 0.001) with higher doses of creatine promoting greater increases in serum creatinine (p = 0.03) but the increases observed (0.1 - 0.2 mg/dl) were well within normal values for active individuals (i.e., {\ensuremath{<}}1.28 {$\pm$} 0.2 mg/dl). Serum LDL was decreased to a greater degree following ingesting loading doses in the CrM group but returned to baseline during the maintenance phase. No side effects were reported.Conclusions: Neither manufacturers recommended doses of KA (1.5 g/d) or KA with equivalent loading (20 g/d for 7-days) and maintenance doses (5 g/d for 21-days) of CrM promoted greater changes in muscle creatine content, body composition, strength, or anaerobic capacity than CrM (20 g/d for 7-days, 5 g/d for 21-days). There was no evidence that supplementing the diet with a buffered form of creatine resulted in fewer side effects than CrM. These findings do not support claims that consuming a buffered form of creatine is a more efficacious and/or safer form of creatine to consume than creatine monohydrate. {\copyright} 2012 Jagim et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir10611, month = {February}, title = {NUMERICAL MODELING OF ROCK CUTTING AND ITS ASSOCIATED FRAGMENTATION PROCESS USING THE FINITE ELEMENT METHOD}, author = {Maria Carolina Jaime}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Rock cutting modeling, Finite element method, Crack propagation, Rock fragmentation, Constitutive law, Contact formulation, Groove cutting, Rock cutting under pressure, LS-DYNA.}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10611/}, abstract = {As the need for reaching fuel reserves at greater depths increases, over the past 30 years scientists have been exploring and developing the technology required to efficiently drill rock at highly pressured environments; yet, there are still gaps in the understanding of the physical phenomena involved. One of the basic problems has to do with the cutter-to-rock interaction during the cutting process. This study employs the Finite Element Method (FEM) to investigate the mechanics of rock cutting because of its flexibility in handling material heterogeneity, nonlinearity and boundary conditions. Using the FEM to model fracturing of a brittle material like rock ?and consequently treating its discontinuous chips? is a challenging undertaking that requires the tackling of a sequence of complex problems: As the cutter advances and touches the rock material, a contact problem first arises. This is followed by nonlinear deformation and the determination as to when and whether the rock would fail. Subsequently, the question of how to initiate the fragmentation process has to be resolved if the rock fails. The cycle repeats starting with a new contact problem after new surfaces are generated due to fracture. At present, few researchers have focused on crack initiation and subsequent crack propagation, but even fewer have accounted for actual chip formation, and none has considered the dynamic interaction amongst chips, newly formed surfaces, and the cutter. One important goal of this study is to advance the modeling such that it is possible to follow the cutter in a complete cutting process in a credible manner. A framework of three-dimensional FEM modeling was developed so that the fragmentation process observed in laboratory rock scratching tests could be properly simulated. A thorough calibration of the rock material model was carried out, together with extensive sensitivity analyses of contact models, damage based failure and its associated fracture modeling using the commercial software LS-DYNA. This study was able to obtain ductile failure mode for shallow cuts, and brittle failure for deep cuts as observed in the laboratory, all without a priori setting on the failure modes. Also, cutting force magnitudes and tendencies obtained from the study correlated well with published results of the physical experiments. Moreover, in a limited scope, this study also investigated the effects of applying external hydrostatic pressure on rock cutting. Preliminary numerical results indicate a good comparison with few published data. Lastly, theoretical models for obtaining cutting forces were assessed, providing a better understanding of their limitations and usability. } } @article{pittir16303, volume = {50}, number = {4}, month = {April}, author = {P Jain and TE Hartman and N Eisenberg and MR O'Donnell and J Kriakov and K Govender and M Makume and DS Thaler and GF Hatfull and AW Sturm and MH Larsen and P Moodley and WR Jacobs}, title = {{\ensuremath{\phi}} {\ensuremath{<}}sup{\ensuremath{>}}2{\ensuremath{<}}/sup{\ensuremath{>}}GFP10, a high-intensity fluorophage, enables detection and rapid drug susceptibility testing of Mycobacterium tuberculosis directly from sputum samples}, journal = {Journal of Clinical Microbiology}, pages = {1362 -- 1369}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16303/}, abstract = {The difficulty of diagnosing active tuberculosis (TB) and lack of rapid drug susceptibility testing (DST) at the point of care remain critical obstacles to TB control. This report describes a high-intensity mycobacterium-specific- fluorophage ({\ensuremath{\phi}} 2GFP10) that for the first time allows direct visualization of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in clinical sputum samples. Engineered features distinguishing {\ensuremath{\phi}} 2GFP10 from previous reporter phages include an improved vector backbone with increased cloning capacity and superior expression of fluorescent reporter genes through use of an efficient phage promoter. {\ensuremath{\phi}} 2GFP10 produces a 100-fold increase in fluorescence per cell compared to existing reporter phages. DST for isoniazid and oxofloxacin, carried out in cultured samples, was complete within 36 h. Use of {\ensuremath{\phi}} 2GFP10 detected M. tuberculosis in clinical sputum samples collected from TB patients. DST for rifampin and kanamycin from sputum samples yielded results after 12 h of incubation with {\ensuremath{\phi}} 2GFP10. Fluorophage {\ensuremath{\phi}} 2GFP10 has potential for clinical development as a rapid, sensitive, and inexpensive point-of-care diagnostic tool for M. tuberculosis infection and for rapid DST. Copyright {\copyright} 2012, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.} } @article{pittir38890, volume = {2012}, month = {August}, author = {Karen P. Jakubowski and Jessica J. Black and Nermeen E. El Nokali and Katherine A. Belendiuk and Tamara S. Hannon and Silva A. Arslanian and Dana L. Rofey}, title = {Parents? Readiness to Change Affects BMI Reduction Outcomes in Adolescents with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome}, publisher = {Hindawi Limited}, journal = {Journal of Obesity}, pages = {1--12}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/38890/}, abstract = {Evidence supports the importance of parental involvement for youth?s ability to manage weight. This study utilized the stages of change (SOC) model to assess readiness to change weight control behaviors as well as the predictive value of SOC in determining BMI outcomes in forty adolescent-parent dyads (mean adolescent age = 15 {$\pm$} 1.84 (13?20), BMI = 37 {$\pm$} 8.60; 70\% white) participating in a weight management intervention for adolescent females with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Adolescents and parents completed a questionnaire assessing their SOC for the following four weight control domains: increasing dietary portion control, increasing fruit and vegetable consumption, decreasing dietary fat, and increasing usual physical activity. Linear regression analyses indicated that adolescent change in total SOC from baseline to treatment completion was not predictive of adolescent change in BMI from baseline to treatment completion. However, parent change in total SOC from baseline to treatment completion was predictive of adolescent change in BMI, (t(24) = 2.15, p=0.043). Findings support future research which carefully assesses adolescent and parent SOC and potentially develops interventions targeting adolescent and parental readiness to adopt healthy lifestyle goals.} } @unpublished{pittir11610, month = {June}, title = {Spatial and Multidimensional Visualization of Jeddah Health Resources: A Community Health Assessment of Jeddah City}, author = {Faisal Jamalallail}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Spatial, Multidimensional, Jeddah, GIS, Health Resources}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11610/}, abstract = {Jeddah public health resources are struggling to meet the demand of the large populations. The city is suffering from insufficient public health resources along with other health problem, like high rates of some disease, which resulted in an amount of dissatisfaction among some of the health facilities visitors. The absence of a comprehensive Community Health Assessment study of Jeddah public health resources and the fact that health resources are not meeting the needs of the large population created the need to conduct this study. This is an exploratory study that will use the guidance of two frameworks, Mandala of Health and ?Access as fit? theories, and take into account all public hospitals and primary clinics provided by the ministry of health (MOH). Availability and accessibility of MOH resources will be assessed according to the Saudi planning standards for the years 2006 ? 2010. Furthermore, health professionals? numbers will be assessed against the demand of some prominent disease cases in each census tract for the years 2006 ? 2010. A multidimensional exploration of the data is needed to answer the queries of this study. Thus, Spatial OLAP Visualization and Analysis Tool (SOVAT) is utilized. This tool has the capability of integrating multidimensional databases to maps. It also answers complex queries easily and rapidly and gives results in maps, spreadsheets, and graphs. The exploration resulted in determining that primary clinics are allocated in accordance with populations? densities with few exceptions. In addition, parts of the city were found to be lacking some facilities or health professionals while few parts were found to be over-served with resources. Finally, it has been found that there is a need to increase the number of hospitals. Additional patterns of the resources have been uncovered due to the multidimensional capability of SOVAT. The tool proved to be efficient and established a much better comprehensive understanding of the health resources. Additionally, it helped interpreting the interaction between the dimensions of the ?Access as fit? framework. Nevertheless, some technical skills were needed for a successful data preparation and integration. It could be implemented by MOH as few requirements must be met.} } @article{pittir22954, volume = {70}, number = {11}, month = {November}, author = {J Jang and S Bell Trickett and CD Schunn and J Gregory Trafton}, title = {Unpacking the temporal advantage of distributing complex visual displays}, journal = {International Journal of Human Computer Studies}, pages = {812 -- 827}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22954/}, abstract = {Spatial arrangement of information can have large effects on problem solving. Although such effects have been observed in various domains (e.g.; instruction and interface designs), little is known about the cognitive processing mechanisms underlying these effects, nor its applicability to complex visual problem solving. In three experiments, we showed that the impact of spatial arrangement of information on problem solving time can be surprisingly large for complex real world tasks. It was also found that the effect can be caused by large increases in slow, external information searches (Experiment 1), that the spatial arrangement itself is the critical factor and the effect is domain-general (Experiment 2a), and that the underlying mechanism can involve micro-strategy selection for information encoding in a response to differing information access cost (Experiment 2b). Overall, these studies show a large slowdown effect (i.e.; approximately 30\%) that stacking information produces over spatially distributed information, and multiple paths by which this effect can be produced. {\copyright} 2012 Elsevier Ltd All rights reserved.} } @article{pittir22947, volume = {26}, number = {2}, month = {March}, author = {J Jang and CD Schunn}, title = {Performance Benefits of Spatially Distributed Versus Stacked Information on Integration Tasks}, journal = {Applied Cognitive Psychology}, pages = {207 -- 214}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22947/}, abstract = {Understanding the best way to present information has been an issue of interest to many researchers. Regardless of the content of the information, purely physical elements such as spatial organization may also influence performance. Across two studies with 111 undergraduates (78 in Study 1 and 33 in Study 2), we compared spatially distributed (i.e. when information sources are presented side-by-side) against stacked displays (i.e. when information sources are sitting on top of one another with only the top source fully visible). A distributed display time advantage was consistently observed. As potential explanations, a memory strategy selection hypothesis was examined along with other procedural alternative explanations. {\copyright} 2011 John Wiley \& Sons, Ltd.} } @article{pittir22946, volume = {134}, number = {4}, month = {March}, title = {Physical design tools support and hinder innovative engineering design}, author = {J Jang and CD Schunn}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of Mechanical Design, Transactions of the ASME}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22946/}, abstract = {Engineers use various physical tools (e.g., computers, smart boards, notes, and prototypes) to support their design work. To understand cognitive processes underlying the innovative design process and to reveal the characteristics of innovation-supporting environments, we examined the pattern of tool use in 43 interdisciplinary engineering design teams enrolled in a full-semester product realization course. Teams worked all semester on a single project, with each team being assigned a different industry-sponsored project. Group meetings were video-recorded. Team success was measured in terms of meeting client requirements, and groups were divided into high, medium, and low success. Successful teams (i.e., high and medium success groups) were found to use a smart board and physical prototypes consistently more often throughout the design process, whereas unsuccessful teams (i.e., low success group) used a computer, laptop, and paper notes more often. Particularly, late adoption of physical prototypes was a key characteristic of unsuccessful teams. {\copyright} 2012 American Society of Mechanical Engineers.} } @unpublished{pittir11545, month = {June}, title = {Analysis of the Level of Oxidative Phosphorylatin in Breast Cancer Cell Types}, author = {Bratislav/M Janjic}, year = {2012}, keywords = {oxidative phosphorylation, OCR, breast cancer cell lines, basal OCR, total reserve capacity, ATP-linked OCR}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11545/}, abstract = {Aim. Glycolysis is a cell metabolic process by which glucose is converted to pyruvate. Under aerobic conditions, pyruvate is further oxidized by the citric acid cycle and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) to CO2 and water. Under anaerobic conditions pyruvate is converted to lactate. Warburg first noted that cancer cells take up and metabolize glucose in excess of their bioenergetics and biosynthetic needs and produce more lactic acid in aerobic condition than normal cells. Our hypothesis was that cell lines originated from breast tumors have lower levels of oxidative phosphorylation compared to cell lines that originated from normal tissue. Moreover, we expected that tumor cell lines originated from highly aggressive tumors would have lower oxidative phosphorylation than the cell lines originated from less aggressive tumors and normal tissues. Method. The change in cellular oxygen consumption rate (OCR) in the presence of pharmacological modulators is the most suitable measure of oxidative phosphorylation. The OCR was measured on basal-like, claudin-low, HER-2, luminal and normal cell types, each represented by different number of cell lines. OCR were measured first at base level and then after successive treatments with different pharmacological modulators. Basal OCR, total reserve capacity OCR and ATP-linked OCR were calculated for each cell line. The linear mixed effect regression was used to define the model that described the best association between each of these dependent variables and the cell types, controlling for other variables. Conclusion. We found that there is no significant difference in oxidative phosphorylation among basal-like, claudin-low and normal cell types. However, HER-2 and luminal cell types, originated from less aggressive tumors with better clinical outcome, did show statistically significant higher levels of oxidative phosphorylation than other types (basal-like, claudin-low). Public health significance. It has been shown that breast cancer is the most common cancer among women of almost all races and it had been recognized as a major public health problem. Understanding metabolic differences between breast cancer cells and normal cells and among different type of breast cancer cells might have significance in designing appropriate chemo-therapeutics and treatment procedures for patients with different types of breast cancers. } } @article{pittir29915, volume = {14}, number = {2}, month = {April}, title = {Adjuvant treatment of HER2-positive breast cancer: Winning efforts continue to improve HER2-positive patient outcome long-term}, author = {RC Jankowitz and AM Brufsky}, year = {2012}, journal = {Breast Cancer Research}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29915/}, abstract = {Randomized adjuvant trials continue to show significant reductions in distant recurrence and death for early-stage women treated with adjuvant trastuzumab. BCIRG-006 showed superior disease-free and overall survival of two trastuzumab-containing regimens in comparison to a non-trastuzumab-containing regimen. The rates of disease-free and overall survival were not statistically different for the two trastuzumab-containing arms. Ongoing study is needed to identify markers of resistance to trastuzumab and incorporate newer agents in the adjuvant setting in order to further decrease rates of distant recurrence and death from HER2-positive breast cancer. {\copyright} 2012 BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir11999, month = {July}, title = {Physical activity in overweight and obese adults with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorders}, author = {Carol/A Janney}, year = {2012}, keywords = {schizophrenia physical activity accelerometry MAQ mental health NHANES 2003-2004 schizoaffective disorder users of mental health services}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11999/}, abstract = {Objectives: Provide a comprehensive profile of physical activity in overweight and obese adults with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorders (SZO/SA), and compare physical activity levels measured objectively with accelerometry in overweight and obese adults with SZO/SA with users of mental health services (NHANES 2003-2004). Design: Randomized clinical trial; Weight Assessment and Intervention in Schizophrenia Treatment (WAIST) Study: baseline data collected 2005-2008. Setting: University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA Participants: Community-dwelling adults diagnosed with SZO/SA, experiencing mild psychiatric symptoms (PANSS{\ensuremath{<}}90), interested in losing weight, age 18-70 years, BMI{\ensuremath{>}}27 kg/m2. Measurements: Self-reported physical activity questionnaire, objectively measured physical activity (accelerometry), and physical fitness. Results: Household activities were the primary source of activity (women 474, men 284 mins/wk, p{\ensuremath{<}}0.001). Walking for transportation or leisure was reported by 64\% (n=163) of participants. Occupational activities were limited due to low employment rate ({\texttt{\char126}}15\%). Other than household activities, no differences in subjective physical activity were noted by gender, race, or age groups. On average, 81\%, 17\%, and 2\% of the participant?s monitoring time was classified as sedentary, light, and moderate-vigorous activity, respectively, using accelerometry. Total (mins/day and counts/min) and light activity (mins/day) but not moderate-vigorous activity (mins/day) were significantly greater in users of mental health services than adults with SZO/SA (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.01). Only 2 of 105 were classified as fit. No association was observed between objective and subjective physical activity and physical fitness. Subjective physical activity was associated with function and general health status but not psychiatric symptoms. Conclusion: Overweight and obese adults with SZO/SA were extremely sedentary; unfit; engaged in unstructured, intermittent, low-intensity physical activity; less active than users of mental health services. Physical activities were generally limited to walking for transportation or leisure, and household activities. Public Health Significance: These findings provide the first quantitative and comprehensive profile of physical activity in adults with SZO/SA. This extremely sedentary lifestyle is alarming, significantly lower than other inactive US populations, costly for the individual and community, and warrants immediate action. Interventions should focus on decreasing sedentary time in addition to promoting all aspects of physical activity in overweight and obese adults with SZO/SA.} } @inproceedings{pittir19003, volume = {49}, number = {1}, month = {December}, title = {Groups in Mendeley: Owners' descriptions and group outcomes}, author = {W Jeng and D He and J Jiang and Y Zhang}, year = {2012}, journal = {Proceedings of the ASIST Annual Meeting}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19003/}, abstract = {Using four factors borrowed from traditional social group theories, we examined owners' group descriptions in Mendeley to study the applicability of traditional social group theories for large, loosely-formed online groups. We manually annotated the descriptions for 529 Mendeley groups, and correlated the appearances of the factors with two measures of the groups' outcomes: the changes in the numbers of group members and the changes of the articles shared within the groups between 2011 and 2012. Our results suggest that, in general, all four factors are important in online groups, which indicates the usefulness of traditional group theories in the study of online groups. In addition, although a majority of the factors have helped the growth of group size being higher than average increase, several factors have caused the increase of the shared articles within the groups to be smaller than average increase.} } @article{pittir29973, volume = {13}, month = {January}, title = {A selective and potent CXCR3 antagonist SCH 546738 attenuates the development of autoimmune diseases and delays graft rejection}, author = {CH Jenh and MA Cox and L Cui and EP Reich and L Sullivan and SC Chen and D Kinsley and S Qian and SH Kim and S Rosenblum and J Kozlowski and JS Fine and PJ Zavodny and D Lundell}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Immunology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29973/}, abstract = {Background: The CXCR3 receptor and its three interferon-inducible ligands (CXCL9, CXCL10 and CXCL11) have been implicated as playing a central role in directing a Th1 inflammatory response. Recent studies strongly support that the CXCR3 receptor is a very attractive therapeutic target for treating autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis and psoriasis, and to prevent transplant rejection. We describe here the in vitro and in vivo pharmacological characterizations of a novel and potent small molecule CXCR3 antagonist, SCH 546738.Results: In this study, we evaluated in vitro pharmacological properties of SCH 546738 by radioligand receptor binding and human activated T cell chemotaxis assays. In vivo efficacy of SCH 546738 was determined by mouse collagen-induced arthritis, rat and mouse experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, and rat cardiac transplantation models. We show that SCH 546738 binds to human CXCR3 with a high affinity of 0.4 nM. In addition, SCH 546738 displaces radiolabeled CXCL10 and CXCL11 from human CXCR3 with IC50 ranging from 0.8 to 2.2 nM in a non-competitive manner. SCH 546738 potently and specifically inhibits CXCR3-mediated chemotaxis in human activated T cells with IC90 about 10 nM. SCH 546738 attenuates the disease development in mouse collagen-induced arthritis model. SCH 546738 also significantly reduces disease severity in rat and mouse experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis models. Furthermore, SCH 546738 alone achieves dose-dependent prolongation of rat cardiac allograft survival. Most significantly, SCH 546738 in combination with CsA supports permanent engraftment.Conclusions: SCH 546738 is a novel, potent and non-competitive small molecule CXCR3 antagonist. It is efficacious in multiple preclinical disease models. These results demonstrate that therapy with CXCR3 antagonists may serve as a new strategy for treatment of autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis, and to prevent transplant rejection. {\copyright} 2012 Jenh et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir17029, month = {December}, title = {The Relationship Between Local Temperature Range and Annual Seasonality of Measles in the United States: 1924 - 1948}, school = {University of Pittsburgh}, author = {Erin Maureen Jenkins}, publisher = {University of Pittsburgh}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17029/}, abstract = {Measles epidemics exhibit annual seasonality in which epidemics start in the autumn and peak in the spring. Current theories regarding factors driving seasonal transmission fail to fully account for historical observations from as far back as the 17th century. In this study, we explored the potential influence of annual climate cycles in driving measles seasonality. Data was used from 72 United States cities which range across a large range of climate types. Local temperature range was used as the indicator of climate seasonality and the relationship between this factor and measles epidemics across the US was assessed using wavelet analysis as well as more direct methods of comparison. Synchrony of epidemics among cities was assessed by using wavelet techniques to reconstruct the annual signal of measles time series data and by calculating the mean cumulative progression of epidemics for all cities. A high level of synchrony was seen among all cities and the year-to-year variability that was observed had no association with local temperature range. Local wavelet spectrum analysis was used to compare dominant periodicities among the cities. Great variability of dominant periodicity was observed but showed no obvious association with local temperature range. Establishing the relationship between measles seasonality and climate contributes to public health by adding to the information on the biology of the measles virus and by increasing our understanding of the key mechanisms driving measles transmission. This information can be used to develop early warning systems and to tailor vaccination programs for communities which continue to experience regular epidemics around the world.} } @article{pittir38859, volume = {2012}, title = {From Brain to Behavior: Hypertension's Modulation of Cognition and Affect}, author = {J. Richard Jennings and Alicia F. Heim}, publisher = {Hindawi Limited}, year = {2012}, pages = {1--12}, journal = {International Journal of Hypertension}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/38859/}, abstract = {Accumulating evidence from animal models and human studies of essential hypertension suggest that brain regulation of the vasculature is impacted by the disease. Human neuroimaging findings suggest that the brain may be an early target of the disease. This observation reinforces earlier research suggesting that psychological factors may be one of the many contributory factors to the initiation of the disease. Alternatively or in addition, initial blood pressure increases may impact cognitive and/or affective function. Evidence for an impact of blood pressure on the perception and experience of affect is reviewed vis-a-vis brain imaging findings suggesting that such involvement in hypertensive individuals is likely.} } @unpublished{pittir13440, month = {September}, title = {The spectral analysis of nonstationary categorical time series using local spectral envelope}, author = {Hyewook Jeong and Hyewook Jeong}, year = {2012}, keywords = {spectral analysis, spectral envelope, Kullback-Leibler divergence}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13440/}, abstract = {Most classical methods for the spectral analysis are based on the assumption that the time series is stationary. However, many time series in practical problems shows nonstationary behaviors. The data from some fields are huge and have variance and spectrum which changes over time. Sometimes,we are interested in the cyclic behavior of the categorical-valued time series such as EEG sleep state data or DNA sequence, the general method is to scale the data, that is, assign numerical values to the categories and then use the periodogram to find the cyclic behavior. But there exists numerous possible scaling. If we arbitrarily assign the numerical values to the categories and proceed with a spectral analysis, then the results will depend on the particular assignment. We would like to find the all possible scaling that bring out all of the interesting features in the data. To overcome these problems, there have been many approaches in the spectral analysis. Our goal is to develop a statistical methodology for analyzing nonstationary categorical time series in the frequency domain. In this dissertation, the spectral envelope methodology is introduced for spectral analysis of categorical time series. This provides the general framework for the spectral analysis of the categorical time series and summarizes information from the spectrum matrix. To apply this method to nonstationary process, I used the TBAS(Tree-Based Adaptive Segmentation) and local spectral envelope based on the piecewise stationary process. In this dissertation,the TBAS(Tree-Based Adpative Segmentation) using distance function based on the Kullback-Leibler divergence was proposed to find the best segmentation.} } @unpublished{pittir13199, month = {September}, title = {The Perception of English Vowels By Native Spanish Speakers }, author = {Andrew Jeske}, year = {2012}, keywords = {English vowels, Spanish vowels, perception, PAM-L2}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13199/}, abstract = {Many studies have shown that a person?s perception of second language (L2) sounds is affected by previous language experience, and there are multiple theories which attempt to account for this fact (Flege, 1995; Kuhl, 2000) One theory, the Perceptual Assimilation Model for Language Learners (PAM-L2), states that the difficulty of accurate L2 perception can be predicted through an assessment of the interaction between the first language (L1) and L2 sound systems (Best \& Tyler, 2007). Specifically, the PAM-L2 framework makes predictions for the level of discrimination difficulty based on how the L2 tokens of any given contrast map onto language learners? L1. This study investigated the effect that previous language experience has on L1 Spanish speakers? perception of L2 English vowels and interpreted the results in the framework of PAM-L2. Twelve native Spanish speakers from the University of Pittsburgh completed a vowel assimilation task which evaluated the perceived similarity between L2 English vowels and L1 Spanish vowels. Next, the participants were tested on their ability to distinguish distinct vowel categories in an AX discrimination task. Finally, they participated in a forced identification task to assess their ability to correctly label English speech sounds. The results from the discrimination task supported PAM-L2?s predictions of discrimination difficulty for only six of the ten contrasts analyzed. Moreover, the results suggest that any L2 vowel contrast can be easy or difficult to discriminate, regardless of how the individual vowels of the contrast assimilate to the L1. Results from the forced identification task showed that three of the four most inaccurately discriminated vowel contrasts contained one token that was misidentified as the other member of the contrast more frequently than it was correctly identified. For example, in the /i-?/ contrast, /i/ was identified as /?/ in 54\% of all cases, while it was correctly labeled only 44\% of the time. The results from this study demonstrate that the PAM-L2 framework inadequately predicts levels of discrimination difficulty for L2 vowel contrasts for L1 Spanish learners of English. Future research must explore ways to analyze L2 speech perception that do not rely exclusively on vowel assimilation patterns. } } @unpublished{pittir10532, month = {February}, title = {CONTROLLED RELEASE FORMULATIONS FOR IMMUNO-REGULATION: TOWARDS A SYNTHETIC TOLEROGENIC DENDRITIC CELL}, author = {Siddharth Jhunjhunwala}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Controlled Release, Regulatory T cells, PLGA, Drug Delivery, Immunology, rapamycin, TGF-beta, microparticles}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10532/}, abstract = {Transplant rejection and autoimmunity are characterized by adverse inflammatory reactions and the absence of immuno-regulatory mechanisms. One of the most common treatments for these conditions is the use of immunosuppressive agents that non-specifically suppress immune cell function. However, these agents are associated with many drawbacks that include renal and hepatic toxicities as well as increased risk of infections and malignancies. A promising alternative to immunosuppressants is the utilization of the immune system?s natural regulatory mechanisms. Cellular therapies, comprising of tolerogenic dendritic cells (tDC) and regulatory T cells (Treg), which exploit these regulatory mechanisms are currently under development. Unfortunately, therapies that use tDC and Treg are associated with many challenges such as; difficulty in isolating these cells, problems in maintaining their regulatory phenotype under ex vivo culture conditions, and the prohibitive infrastructure requirements in culturing these cells under ?GMP? conditions. A potential solution to these problems is the development of prospective therapeutics that would alter regulatory cell numbers and function in vivo. To this end, we developed three new degradable and biocompatible formulations to modulate regulatory immune responses. The first formulation involves the encapsulation of an immusuppressant, rapamycin, into appropriately-sized microparticles (rapaMP) that can specifically be targeted to phagocytic cells in vivo. RapaMP-treated DC show lowered expression of co-stimulatory markers and decreased ability to stimulate T cell proliferation, both of which are suggestive of their capacity to suppress immune responses in vivo. The second formulation involves the encapsulation of a chemokine capable of Treg recruitment (CCL22) into sustained release vehicles (CCL22MP). Our data demonstrates that CCL22MP are able to recruit Treg in vivo, and show promise in delaying cell and composite tissue graft rejection. The third formulation involves the encapsulation of factors (IL-2, TGF-{\ensuremath{\beta}} and rapa; FactorMP) that we have identified as agents capable of Treg induction. We show that FactorMP are capable of inducing functional Treg populations from both mouse and human cells, and could possibly create a local immunosuppressive environment in vivo that favors Treg proliferation. Controlled release formulations such as these, could potentially be developed as ?off-the-shelf? therapeutics for the treatment of transplant rejection and autoimmunity.} } @unpublished{pittir10837, month = {January}, title = {Neuronal Survival after Traumatic Brain Injury: Cardiolipin-a Critical Target}, author = {Jing Ji}, year = {2012}, keywords = {cardiolipin; traumatic brain injury; mitochondria; oxidative lipidomics; oxidative stress; autophagy}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10837/}, abstract = {Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious healthcare problem in the United States, with more than 400,000 individuals hospitalized each year and an estimated annual cost of \$25 billion; thus TBI is an enormous socioeconomic burden and has significant public health relevance. TBI leads to both direct mechanical damage and functional disturbance in mitochondria, which are key mechanisms contributing to neuronal death after TBI. Therefore, prevention of mitochondrial damage and/or removal of dysfunctional mitochondria (mitophagy) are promising therapeutic strategies. Indeed, in the in vitro model of mechanical stretch injury, mitophagy was observed as early as 1 h and continued for 24 h; however, neuronal death did not occur until 6 h after the insult. The delayed emergence of neuronal death suggests a possible window of opportunity for targeted therapies. In the current research, we studied the role of cardiolipin (CL), a unique mitochondria inner membrane phospholipid, in neuronal death induced by TBI. Manipulation of neuronal CL levels by knocking down CL synthase (CLS, the rate limiting enzyme in the synthesis of CL) using siRNA technology produced 15\% and 46\% decrease in CL content at 72 h and at 96 h, respectively, without alteration in mitochondrial morphology or function and CL molecular speciation. CLS/CL deficiency markedly inhibited both mechanical stretch induced mitophagy and neuronal death. Using a model of direct mitochondrial injury (rotenone, complex I inhibitor), we reported that mitophagy resulted in externalization of CL to the mitochondrial outer membrane in the primary neurons and suggested redistribution of cardiolipin serves as a mitochondrial ?eat-me? signal. Using global lipidomics analysis we showed that TBI induced neuronal death was accompanied by oxidative consumption of polyunsaturated CL and accumulation of more than 150 new oxygenated molecular species in CL. By applying the novel brain permeable mitochondria-targeted electron-scavenger-hemigramicidin nitroxide, we fully prevented CL oxygenation in the brain, achieved a substantial reduction in neuronal death both in vitro and in vivo, and markedly reduced behavioral deficits. Taken together, the results from doctoral work explored the role of CL after TBI that represents a novel target for neuro-drug discovery.} } @inproceedings{pittir19000, month = {December}, title = {Contextual evaluation of query reformulations in a search session by user simulation}, author = {J Jiang and D He and S Han and Z Yue and C Ni}, year = {2012}, pages = {2635 -- 2638}, journal = {ACM International Conference Proceeding Series}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19000/}, abstract = {We propose a method to dynamically estimate the utility of documents in a search session by modeling the users' browsing behaviors and novelty. The method can be applied to evaluate query reformulations in a search session. {\copyright} 2012 ACM.} } @inproceedings{pittir19004, month = {September}, title = {Finding readings for scientists from social websites}, author = {J Jiang and Z Yue and S Han and D He}, year = {2012}, pages = {1075 -- 1076}, journal = {SIGIR'12 - Proceedings of the International ACM SIGIR Conference on Research and Development in Information Retrieval}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19004/}, abstract = {Current search systems are designed to find relevant articles, especially topically relevant ones, but the notion of relevance largely depends on search tasks. We study the specific task that scientists are searching for worth-reading articles beneficial for their research. Our study finds: users' perception of relevance and preference of reading are only moderately correlated; current systems can effectively find readings that are highly relevant to the topic, but 36\% of the worth-reading articles are only marginally relevant or even non-relevant. Our system can effectively find those worth-reading but marginally relevant or non-relevant articles by taking advantages of scientists' recommendations in social websites. {\copyright} 2012 Authors.} } @inproceedings{pittir19005, booktitle = {21st Text REtrieval Conference (TREC 2012)}, month = {November}, title = {On Duplicate Results in a Search Session}, author = {Jiepu Jiang and Daqing He and Shuguang Han}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19005/} } @unpublished{pittir13015, month = {September}, title = {CONTINUOUS SEPARATION OF WATER-OIL MIXTURE USING SURFACE MODIFIED MEMBRANES}, author = {Tianhan Jiang}, year = {2012}, keywords = {water-oil separation membrane continuous}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13015/}, abstract = {In this study, the surfaces of membranes are modified with custom-designed polymers for separation of water-oil mixture. By tuning the chemical structure of the polymers, the water and oil repellencies of the membrane can be tailored. In particular, two types of membranes have been made and used to construct a continuous water-oil separator: one allows oil to pass but stops water, and the other allows water to pass but stops oil. The continuous water-oil separator splits one stream of water-oil mixture into two streams: a water stream that has less than 0.075 wt\% of oil, and an oil stream that has less than 0.01 wt\% of water. Because of the surface texture of the membranes, the modified membranes possess extreme repellencies to either water or oil while can be completely wetted by the other liquid. The two types of membranes used in the water-oil separator are (i) superhydrophilic but superoleophobic (denote as HBO) and (ii) superoleophilic but superhydrphobic (denote as OBH). The super hydro/oleo-philicity and hydro/oleo-phobicity are characterized and explained by Wenzel and Cassie-Baxter models. In addition, the robustness of the hydro/oleo-philic and hydro/oleo-phobic states is analyzed, and critical parameters that affect the robustness of these states are determined. The performance of the membranes during the separation of water-oil mixture is characterized by measuring (i) the relationship between pressure and volume flux, (ii) break-down pressure, (iii) break-down time, and (iv) the oil (water) percentage in the water (oil) stream after separation. These parameters provide guidance to the design and operation of the continuous water-oil separator.} } @article{pittir16063, volume = {7}, number = {10}, month = {October}, title = {Mining Pure, Strict Epistatic Interactions from High-Dimensional Datasets: Ameliorating the Curse of Dimensionality}, author = {X Jiang and RE Neapolitan}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16063/}, abstract = {Background: The interaction between loci to affect phenotype is called epistasis. It is strict epistasis if no proper subset of the interacting loci exhibits a marginal effect. For many diseases, it is likely that unknown epistatic interactions affect disease susceptibility. A difficulty when mining epistatic interactions from high-dimensional datasets concerns the curse of dimensionality. There are too many combinations of SNPs to perform an exhaustive search. A method that could locate strict epistasis without an exhaustive search can be considered the brass ring of methods for analyzing high-dimensional datasets. Methodology/Findings: A SNP pattern is a Bayesian network representing SNP-disease relationships. The Bayesian score for a SNP pattern is the probability of the data given the pattern, and has been used to learn SNP patterns. We identified a bound for the score of a SNP pattern. The bound provides an upper limit on the Bayesian score of any pattern that could be obtained by expanding a given pattern. We felt that the bound might enable the data to say something about the promise of expanding a 1-SNP pattern even when there are no marginal effects. We tested the bound using simulated datasets and semi-synthetic high-dimensional datasets obtained from GWAS datasets. We found that the bound was able to dramatically reduce the search time for strict epistasis. Using an Alzheimer's dataset, we showed that it is possible to discover an interaction involving the APOE gene based on its score because of its large marginal effect, but that the bound is most effective at discovering interactions without marginal effects. Conclusions/Significance: We conclude that the bound appears to ameliorate the curse of dimensionality in high-dimensional datasets. This is a very consequential result and could be pivotal in our efforts to reveal the dark matter of genetic disease risk from high-dimensional datasets. {\copyright} 2012 Jiang, Neapolitan.} } @unpublished{pittir6213, month = {January}, title = {Joint Modeling of Multivariate Ordinal Longitudinal Outcome}, author = {Zhen Jiang}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Joint modeling; Generalized estimating equations; Inverse probability weighting; Latent variable model; Multivariate ordinal longitudinal data; Adherence to medication}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/6213/}, abstract = {Adherence to medication is critical to achieving effectiveness of any treatment. Poor adherence often results in lack of treatment effects, worsening of diseases and increased health care costs. Therefore, it has significant public health importance. However, determining factors that influence adherence behavior is complicated because adherence is often measured on multiple drugs over a long period of time, resulting in multivariate ordinal longitudinal outcome. In the first part of this dissertation, we present a joint model which assumes ordered outcomes arose from a partitioned latent multivariate normal process. This joint model provides a framework for analyzing multivariate ordered longitudinal data with a general multilevel association structure, covering both between and within outcome correlation within each individual. Simulation studies show that the estimators of regression parameters are more efficient than those obtained through fitting separate standard GEE for each outcome, though estimators from each method are unbiased. The proposed method also yields unbiased estimators for correlation parameters given the correct correlation structure. However, standard GEE estimators are biased when missing data are present and data are not missing completely at random (MCAR). In the second part of this dissertation, we apply inverse probability weighted (IPW) estimating equations to the proposed joint model to obtain consistent estimators when data are missing at random (MAR). Simulation studies show that IPW estimators are consistent when the missing model is correctly specified. Furthermore, we observe that fitting with correct correlation structures can also help reduce bias for standard GEE estimators. This demonstrates both a better correlation structure and a better missing model will reduce bias in the analysis of missing at random longitudinal data using IPW GEE. We illustrate application of the proposed joint model to the Virahep-C data.} } @incollection{pittir16167, month = {November}, title = {Analysis of access control mechanisms for users' check-ins in Location-Based Social Network Systems}, author = {L Jin and X Long and JBD Joshi and M Anwar}, year = {2012}, pages = {712 -- 717}, journal = {Proceedings of the 2012 IEEE 13th International Conference on Information Reuse and Integration, IRI 2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16167/}, abstract = {Location-Based Social Network Systems (LBSNSs) are becoming increasingly popular. In LBSNSs, users can check in at various places, connect with their friends and share their check-ins (including users' locations and timestamps) with their friends and even the public. However, most LBSNSs pay on more attention to attracting users to join and actively use their systems rather than protecting users' privacy preferences for their check-ins. In this paper, we analyze access control mechanisms for users' check-ins in four of the most popular existing LBSNSs: Facebook Places, Foursquare, Google Latitude and Yelp. We first generalize a model for users' check-ins based on these LBSNSs. Considering users' check-ins as the protection objects, we then generalize an access control policy model for them. We use these two models as criteria to analyze these access control mechanisms for users' check-ins and compare them in these LBSNSs. Additionally, we identify the common vulnerabilities in these access control mechanisms. Understanding the access control mechanisms for users' check-ins and their limitations can help users who care more about their privacy to choose a LBSNS where their location privacy is better protected. {\copyright} 2012 IEEE.} } @article{pittir15895, volume = {7}, number = {8}, month = {August}, title = {Erythrocyte enrichment in hematopoietic progenitor cell cultures based on magnetic susceptibility of the hemoglobin}, author = {X Jin and S Abbot and X Zhang and L Kang and V Voskinarian-Berse and R Zhao and MV Kameneva and LR Moore and JJ Chalmers and M Zborowski}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15895/}, abstract = {Using novel media formulations, it has been demonstrated that human placenta and umbilical cord blood-derived CD34+ cells can be expanded and differentiated into erythroid cells with high efficiency. However, obtaining mature and functional erythrocytes from the immature cell cultures with high purity and in an efficient manner remains a significant challenge. A distinguishing feature of a reticulocyte and maturing erythrocyte is the increasing concentration of hemoglobin and decreasing cell volume that results in increased cell magnetophoretic mobility (MM) when exposed to high magnetic fields and gradients, under anoxic conditions. Taking advantage of these initial observations, we studied a noninvasive (label-free) magnetic separation and analysis process to enrich and identify cultured functional erythrocytes. In addition to the magnetic cell separation and cell motion analysis in the magnetic field, the cell cultures were characterized for cell sedimentation rate, cell volume distributions using differential interference microscopy, immunophenotyping (glycophorin A), hemoglobin concentration and shear-induced deformability (elongation index, EI, by ektacytometry) to test for mature erythrocyte attributes. A commercial, packed column high-gradient magnetic separator (HGMS) was used for magnetic separation. The magnetically enriched fraction comprised 80\% of the maturing cells (predominantly reticulocytes) that showed near 70\% overlap of EI with the reference cord blood-derived RBC and over 50\% overlap with the adult donor RBCs. The results demonstrate feasibility of label-free magnetic enrichment of erythrocyte fraction of CD34+ progenitor-derived cultures based on the presence of paramagnetic hemoglobin in the maturing erythrocytes. {\copyright} 2012 Jin et al.} } @article{pittir14354, volume = {158 A}, number = {3}, month = {March}, author = {A Jindal and AR Vieira}, title = {Family history of cleft lip and palate in subjects diagnosed with leukemia}, journal = {American Journal of Medical Genetics, Part A}, pages = {678 -- 679}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14354/} } @unpublished{pittir11878, month = {July}, title = {What Parents Want: Designing an Interactive Web-Based Program to Improve Parent-Adolescent Communication About Sex}, author = {Abigail Johnson}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Adolescents, Web-based programs, Parents, Sex}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11878/}, abstract = {Background: Parent-child communication is associated with decreased adolescent sexual risk-taking. To date, interventions targeting parent-child communication have been delivered via face-to-face formats. However, online interventions offer several advantages: cost, reach, program fidelity, anonymity and opportunity for individualized feedback. Objective: The present study sought to identify parents? preferences regarding interactive features for a web-based program to improve parent-child communication about sex. Methods: We conducted seven focus groups with parents (n=29) in Allegheny County, PA to identify their preferences for interactive features to be included in the web program. Results: Parents identified four main interactive features: Ask the Expert, Chat Rooms, Supplementary Information Delivery Modes and Links to Face-to-Face Programming. Parents were interested in receiving individualized feedback regarding their questions/concerns, as well as online peer support. They were also interested in receiving information through other communication tools (texts, email, mail) and having the program connect them to face-to-face programs or seminars. Lastly, parents expressed their desire that the web intervention include a component for children. Conclusions: Understanding what interactive features parents want can help optimize program completion and satisfaction. Public Health Significance: Web-based programs have the potential to reach a large number of parents equipping them with new knowledge and skills to influence their adolescent?s sexual health behaviors.} } @article{pittir11378, volume = {35}, number = {2}, month = {February}, author = {L Johnson and B Lamia and HK Kim and M Tanabe and J Gorcsan and D Schwartzman and SG Shroff and MR Pinsky}, title = {Physiological relevance of quantifying segmental contraction synchrony}, journal = {PACE - Pacing and Clinical Electrophysiology}, pages = {174 -- 187}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11378/}, abstract = {Background: Most current indices of synchrony quantify left ventricular (LV) contraction pattern in terms of a single, global (integrated) measure. We report the development and physiological relevance of a novel method to quantify LV segmental contraction synchrony. Methods: LV pressure-volume and echocardiographic data were collected in seven anesthetized, opened-chest dogs under several pacing modes: right atrial (RA) (control), right ventricular (RV) (dyssynchrony), and additional LV pacing at either apex (CRTa) or free wall (CRTf). Cross-correlation-based integrated (CCSI int) and segmental (CCSI seg) measures of synchrony were calculated from speckle-tracking derived radial strain, along with a commonly used index (maximum time delay). LV contractility was quantified using either E es (ESPVR slope) or ESPVR area (defined in the manuscript). Results: RV pacing decreased CCSI int at LV base (0.95 {$\pm$} 0.02 [RA] vs 0.64 {$\pm$} 0.14 [RV]; P {\ensuremath{<}} 0.05) and only CRTa improved it (0.93 {$\pm$} 0.03; P {\ensuremath{<}} 0.05 vs RV). The CCSI seg analysis identified anteroseptal and septal segments as being responsible for the low CCSI int during RV pacing and inferior segment for poor resynchronization with CRTf. Changes in ESPVR area, and not in E es, indicated depressed LV contractility with RV pacing, an observation consistent with significantly decreased global LV performance (stroke work [SW]: 252 {$\pm$} 23 [RA] vs 151 {$\pm$} 24 [RV] mJ; P {\ensuremath{<}} 0.05). Only CRTa improved SW and contractility (SW: 240 {$\pm$} 19 mJ; ESPVR area: 545 {$\pm$} 175 mmHg?mL; both P {\ensuremath{<}} 0.01 vs RV). Only changes in CCSI seg and global LV contractility were strongly correlated (R 2= 0.698, P = 0.005). Conclusion: CCSI seg provided insights into the changes in LV integrated contraction pattern and a better link to global LV contractility changes. {\copyright} 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.} } @unpublished{pittir12144, month = {July}, title = {MANDIBULAR SHAPE IN MYOSTATIN-DEFICIENT MICE: A GEOMETRIC MORPHOMETRIC ANALYSIS}, author = {Fayth Johnston}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Myostatin-deficient mice, Geometric morphometrics, Orthodontics}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12144/}, abstract = {The relationship between muscle function and mandibular morphology is unclear. Manipulating the size or function of muscle and then observing the effect on adjacent bone is one way to explore this relationship. The premise is that muscles under function create stress and strain on bone, thereby altering bone morphology. Myostatin knockout (MKO) mice are hypermuscular and may be used as an animal model to study this muscle-bone association. Previous studies comparing MKO mice have used conventional cephalometric analyses to compare their skeletal morphology to wild-type controls. The objective of our study is to provide a phenotypic description of the mandible in MKO mice compared to wild-type CD-1 control mice by quantifying their shape variation at 28 days of age utilizing a geometric morphometric approach. The hypothesis proposes that epigenetic muscle-bone interactions during development cause mandibular shape changes in MKO mice compared to the wild-type controls by 28 days of age. The present sample included nine wild-type and eight MKO mice 28 days old. Eleven mandibular landmarks were recorded on each cephalogram. The landmarks were aligned using Procrustes superimposition method and new coordinates were created to perform a canonical variates analysis (CVA). Results found a significant difference in the mean mandibular shape between the MKO and wild-type groups (Procrustes statistic: 0.047; p = 0.014). The inferior border of the mandible of the myostatin-deficient mice showed increased curvature and decreased ramal height when compared to the wild-type mice. The curved mandible phenotype here may be analogous to the ?rocker? mandible reported to be prominent in the Polynesian population. These findings suggest that changing muscular forces altered mandibular morphology most dramatically in regions associated with masticatory muscle attachments.} } @unpublished{pittir13174, month = {September}, title = {The Potential Impact of Undiagnosed Hearing Loss on the Diagnosis of Dementia}, author = {Lindsey Jorgensen}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Hearing loss, dementia, aging, diagnosis}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13174/}, abstract = {Hearing loss and dementia are conditions that impact similar populations. Many adults do not seek audiologic care for their hearing loss and thus are seen in the primary care physician?s office with an undiagnosed hearing loss. This study sought to determine the impact of undiagnosed hearing loss and thus decreased audibility on the items of the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) commonly used to diagnose dementia. Many physicians use the MMSE along with self-report of cognitive decline to diagnose dementia. Previous studies have suggested that self-report of cognitive decline is impacted by hearing loss. This study suggests that a decrease in audibility that would be associated with an undiagnosed hearing loss significantly impacts performance on the MMSE. Physicians should be cautious when using the MMSE and self-report of cognitive impairment to diagnose dementia without accounting for hearing loss as both may be significantly impacted by undiagnosed hearing loss.} } @unpublished{pittir12016, month = {June}, title = {UNCONDITIONAL STABILITY OF A CRANK-NICOLSON/ADAMS-BASHFORTH 2 IMPLICIT/EXPLICIT METHOD FOR ORDINARY DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS}, author = {Andrew Jorgenson}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Crank-Nicolson, IMEX methods}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12016/}, abstract = {Systems of non-linear partial di?erential equations modeling turbulent fluid ow and other processes present special challanges in numerical analysis. A time-stepping Crank-Nicolson/Adams-Bashforth 2 implicitexplicit method for solving spatially-discretized systems of this type is proposed and proven to be unconditionally stable and second-order convergent.} } @article{pittir13455, volume = {17}, number = {3}, month = {January}, author = {J Joshi and E Bertino and C Pu and H Ramampiaro}, title = {ACM/springer mobile networks and applications (monet) special issue on "collaborative computing: Networking, applications and worksharing}, journal = {Mobile Networks and Applications}, pages = {325 -- 326}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13455/} } @article{pittir29886, volume = {12}, month = {June}, title = {A protocol for a randomized clinical trial of interactive video dance: Potential for effects on cognitive function}, author = {J Jovancevic and C Rosano and S Perera and KI Erickson and S Studenski}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Geriatrics}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29886/}, abstract = {Background: Physical exercise has the potential to affect cognitive function, but most evidence to date focuses on cognitive effects of fitness training. Cognitive exercise also may influence cognitive function, but many cognitive training paradigms have failed to provide carry-over to daily cognitive function. Video games provide a broader, more contextual approach to cognitive training that may induce cognitive gains and have carry over to daily function. Most video games do not involve physical exercise, but some novel forms of interactive video games combine physical activity and cognitive challenge. Methods/Design: This paper describes a randomized clinical trial in 168 postmenopausal sedentary overweight women that compares an interactive video dance game with brisk walking and delayed entry controls. The primary endpoint is adherence to activity at six months. Additional endpoints include aspects of physical and mental health. We focus this report primarily on the rationale and plans for assessment of multiple cognitive functions. Discussion: This randomized clinical trial may provide new information about the cognitive effects of interactive videodance. It is also the first trial to examine physical and cognitive effects in older women. Interactive video games may offer novel strategies to promote physical activity and health across the life span. The study is IRB approved and the number is: PRO08080012 ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01443455. {\copyright} 2012 Jovancevic- Misic et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir10967, month = {June}, title = {Gold-Catalyzed Synthesis of Heterocycles from Alkynyl Ethers. Synthesis of Leucascandrolide A. Mechanistic Analysis of Oxidative C?H Cleavages using Inter- and Intramolecular Kinetic Isotope Effects.}, author = {Hyung Hoon Jung}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Gold catalyst, Hydration, Pyran, Piperidine, Andrachcinidine, Leucascandrolide A, ETIC, Kinetic Isotope Effect, DDQ, C-H Activation, }, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10967/}, abstract = {Gold complexes catalyze the cyclyzation of homopropargylic ethers to prepare saturated hetercyclic ketones through a sequence of alkyne hydration, alkoxy elimination, and intramolecular conjugate addition of pendant oxygen or nitrogen nucleophiles. This reaction was used in an efficient total synthesis of the natural product andrachcinidine. Regioselective hydration of internal alkynes on propargylic ethers rather than homopropargylic ethers expanded the scope of products. Leucascandrolide A was synthesized through an Electron Transfer-Initiated Cyclization (ETIC) reaction as a key step. The reaction sequence also had highlights as stereoselective BiBr3-mediated allylation, acetal formation as a fragment-coupling reaction, and a rhenium-mediated allylic alcohol transposition leading to stable macrolactol formation. Intra- and intermolecular kinetic isotope effects of oxidative carbon-hydrogen bond cleavage in DDQ-mediated cyclization reations were also explored. The carbon-hydrogen cleavage is rate determining and that a radical cation is most likely a key intermediate in the reaction mechanism.} } @unpublished{pittir6197, month = {February}, title = {Using Natural Language as Knowledge Representation in an Intelligent Tutoring System}, author = {Sung-Young Jung}, year = {2012}, keywords = {knowledge representation, knowledge acquisition, natural language understanding, intelligent tutoring system. authoring system, physics problem solving}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/6197/}, abstract = {Knowledge used in an intelligent tutoring system to teach students is usually acquired from authors who are experts in the domain. A problem is that they cannot directly add and update knowledge if they don?t learn formal language used in the system. Using natural language to represent knowledge can allow authors to update knowledge easily. This thesis presents a new approach to use unconstrained natural language as knowledge representation for a physics tutoring system so that non-programmers can add knowledge without learning a new knowledge representation. This approach allows domain experts to add not only problem statements, but also background knowledge such as commonsense and domain knowledge including principles in natural language. Rather than translating into a formal language, natural language representation is directly used in inference so that domain experts can understand the internal process, detect knowledge bugs, and revise the knowledgebase easily. In authoring task studies with the new system based on this approach, it was shown that the size of added knowledge was small enough for a domain expert to add, and converged to near zero as more problems were added in one mental model test. After entering the no-new-knowledge state in the test, 5 out of 13 problems (38 percent) were automatically solved by the system without adding new knowledge.} } @article{pittir13447, volume = {31}, number = {4}, month = {June}, author = {Y Jung and JBD Joshi}, title = {CRiBAC: Community-centric role interaction based access control model}, journal = {Computers and Security}, pages = {497 -- 523}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13447/}, abstract = {As one of the most efficient solutions to complex and large-scale problems, multi-agent cooperation has been in the limelight for the past few decades. Recently, many research projects have focused on context-aware cooperation to dynamically provide complex services. As cooperation in the multi-agent systems (MASs) becomes more common, guaranteeing the security of such cooperation takes on even greater importance. However, existing security models do not reflect the agents' unique features, including cooperation and context-awareness. In this paper, we propose a Community-based Role interaction-based Access Control model (CRiBAC) to allow secure cooperation in MASs. To do this, we refine and extend our preliminary RiBAC model, which was proposed earlier to support secure interactions among agents, by introducing a new concept of interaction permission, and then extend it to CRiBAC to support community-based cooperation among agents. We analyze potential problems related to interaction permissions and propose two approaches to address them. We also propose an administration model to facilitate administration of CRiBAC policies. Finally, we present the implementation of a prototype system based on a sample scenario to assess the proposed work and show its feasibility. {\copyright} 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.} } @article{pittir13448, volume = {37}, number = {3}, month = {March}, author = {Y Jung and M Kim and A Masoumzadeh and JBD Joshi}, title = {A survey of security issue in multi-agent systems}, journal = {Artificial Intelligence Review}, pages = {239 -- 260}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13448/}, abstract = {Multi-agent systems have attracted the attention of researchers because of agents' automatic, pro-active, and dynamic problem solving behaviors. Consequently, there has been a rapid development in agent technology which has enabled us to provide or receive useful and convenient services in a variety of areas such as banking, transportation, e-business, and healthcare. In many of these services, it is, however, necessary that security is guaranteed. Unless we guarantee the security services based on agent-based systems, these services will face significant deployment problems. In this paper, we survey existing work related to security in multi-agent systems, especially focused on access control and trust/reputation, and then present our analyses. We also present existing problems and discuss future research challenges. {\copyright} Springer Science+Business Media B.V 2011.} } @article{pittir23371, volume = {2}, number = {13}, month = {July}, author = {Y Jung and YH Son and JK Lee}, title = {3-D self-assembly of flower-like particles via microwave irradiation for water treatment}, journal = {RSC Advances}, pages = {5877 -- 5884}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/23371/}, abstract = {Three-dimensional (3-D) flower-like shape (FLS) Fe 3O 4 and Fe particles were successfully synthesized using FLS precursor particles that are prepared through a facile microwave-assisted reaction. The mechanism underlying the self-assembly process and shape evolution of FLS particles was systematically investigated by changing reaction parameters such as reaction temperature, reaction time and reaction pressure. During the reaction, iron alkoxide, {\ensuremath{\alpha}}-Fe 2O 3 and FeOOH nanoparticles are formed first and are subsequently transformed to 3-D hierarchical FLS particles by the self-assembly of the primary nanoparticles. Reaction temperature and pressure play critical roles in the formation of the hierarchical flower-like superstructure. There is an optimum window of the reaction temperature ({$\sim$}180 ?C) for the formation of 3-D FLS particles, which is attributed to the competition between the self-assembly process and growth process of the nanoparticles. Also, since FeCl 3, ethylene glycol, and urea are used together as raw materials, the appearance of FLS particles is strongly dependent on the reaction pressure. As the reaction pressure becomes larger than 1 MPa, the flake type particles become more thermodynamically favorable than the FLS particles, due to the limited decomposition of urea. Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) analysis shows that FLS particles have a large surface area ({\ensuremath{>}}40 m 2 g -1). Because of their high specific surface area and intrinsic reactivity, FLS particles efficiently remove sulfur ions in aqueous solution. This suggests that these flower-like particles can be promising materials to treat toxic gas such as H 2S in an environment-friendly way. {\copyright} 2012 The Royal Society of Chemistry.} } @unpublished{pittir12319, month = {September}, title = {Essays on Strategic Voting}, author = {SUN-TAK KIM}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Strategic Voting, Spatial Model, Post-Electoral Bargaining, Platform Divergence, Mixed-strategy Equilibrium, Voting Behavior, Voting Mechanisms, Condorcet Jury Model, Information Aggregation, Information Acquisition, Laboratory Experiments.}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12319/}, abstract = {This dissertation investigates strategic voting from two perspectives. The second chapter studies a theory of electoral competition in the presence of strategic forward-looking voters while the third chapter experimentally tests a rational voter model under alternative voting institutions that may be employed in jury trials. In the second chapter, I study a spatial model of two-party electoral competition in which the final policy outcome can be different from electoral promises. The policy outcome depends in part on electoral promise, but also reflects the bargaining process between the winning and losing party whose outcome can be anticipated by strategic forward-looking voters. Unlike the prediction of the Median Voter Theorem which holds with the coincidence of electoral promises and policy outcomes, I find that parties have incentives to distinguish themselves from one another in the election with the consideration of policy concession that might result from post-electoral bargaining. In the third chapter, I report on an experiment comparing compulsory and voluntary voting mechanisms. Theory predicts that these different mechanisms have important implications for strategic decisions in terms of both voting and abstention, and I find strong support for these theoretical predictions in the experimental data. Voters are able to adapt their strategic voting behavior or their participation decisions to the different voting mechanisms in such a way as to make the efficiency differences between these mechanisms negligible. I argue that this finding may account for the co-existence of these two voting mechanisms in nature. In conclusion, I give a brief description of a way to extend the experimental study in the third chapter by considering alternative mechanisms to obtain private information relevant to voting decisions.} } @article{pittir21710, volume = {7}, number = {6}, month = {November}, author = {HW Ka and R Simpson and Y Chung}, title = {Intelligent single switch wheelchair navigation}, journal = {Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology}, pages = {501 -- 506}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/21710/}, abstract = {We have developed an intelligent single switch scanning interface and wheelchair navigation assistance system, called intelligent single switch wheelchair navigation (ISSWN), to improve driving safety, comfort and efficiency for individuals who rely on single switch scanning as a control method. ISSWN combines a standard powered wheelchair with a laser rangefinder, a single switch scanning interface and a computer. It provides the user with context sensitive and task specific scanning options that reduce driving effort based on an interpretation of sensor data together with user input. Trials performed by 9 able-bodied participants showed that the system significantly improved driving safety and efficiency in a navigation task by significantly reducing the number of switch presses to 43.5\% of traditional single switch wheelchair navigation (p {\ensuremath{<}} 0.001). All participants made a significant improvement (39.1\%; p {\ensuremath{<}} 0.001) in completion time after only two trials. Implications for Rehabilitation Intelligent navigation algorithm helps investigators develop smart wheelchair technology that may ultimately provide independent mobility to a segment of the population that currently finds it difficult or impossible to operate a conventional wheelchair. intelligent single switch wheelchair navigation improves the driving safety, comfort, and efficiency for individuals who rely on single switch scanning as a wheelchair control method by significantly reducing the number of switch presses and completion time. {\copyright} 2012 Informa UK, Ltd.} } @inproceedings{pittir22869, booktitle = {the Annual Conference on Rehabilitation Engineering}, month = {June}, title = {Effectiveness of Morse Code as an Alternative Control Method for Powered Wheelchair Navigation}, author = {Hyun Ka and Richard Simpson}, publisher = {RESNA}, year = {2012}, journal = {Proceedings of the Annual Conference on Rehabilitation Engineering}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22869/}, abstract = {We applied Morse code as an alternative input method for powered wheelchair navigation to improve driving efficiency for individuals with physical disabilities. In lab trials performed by four testers, it demonstrated significant improvement in driving efficiency by reducing the driving time, compared to traditional single switch wheelchair navigation.} } @article{pittir38853, volume = {8}, number = {1}, author = {Joseph Kabara and Maria Calle}, title = {MAC Protocols Used by Wireless Sensor Networks and a General Method of Performance Evaluation}, publisher = {SAGE Publishing}, journal = {International Journal of Distributed Sensor Networks}, pages = {834784}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/38853/}, abstract = {Many researchers employ IEEE802.15.4 as communication technology for wireless sensor networks (WSNs). However, medium access control (MAC) layer requirements for communications in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) vary because the network is usually optimized for specific applications. Thus, one particular standard will hardly be suitable for every possible application. Two general categories of MAC techniques exist: contention based and schedule based. This paper explains these two main approaches and includes examples of each one. The paper concludes with a unique performance analysis and comparison of benefits and limitations of each protocol with respect to WSNs.} } @unpublished{pittir13811, month = {August}, title = {THE EFFICACY OF VIDEO SELF-MODELING FOR PROMOTING SOCIAL INITIATION SKILLS FOR CHILDREN WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS (ASD) TO PEERS}, author = {Lema Kabashi}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Keywords: autism, children, video self-modeling, mands, social initiations. }, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13811/}, abstract = {Social initiation skills are considered among the most challenging skills to acquire by children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Generalization of social initiations across settings, people, and materials is another related challenging area. Research indicates that when provided with appropriate interventions, children with ASD may enhance social initiation skills and generalize them across settings, people, and materials. This research study implemented a multiple probe single subject research design across three children with ASD to examine whether a video self-modeling intervention is effective in establishing a mand repertoire and other types of social initiations to peers. Generalization and maintenance effects were measured in addition to the social validity of the video self-modeling intervention. The results of the video self-modeling intervention and discussion of findings are provided. Study limitations and future recommendations are discussed as well. } } @article{pittir12722, volume = {8}, number = {2}, month = {January}, author = {K Kaemarungsi and P Krishnamurthy}, title = {Analysis of WLAN's received signal strength indication for indoor location fingerprinting}, journal = {Pervasive and Mobile Computing}, pages = {292 -- 316}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12722/}, abstract = {An indoor positioning system that uses a location fingerprinting technique based on the received signal strength of a wireless local area network is an enabler for indoor location-aware computing. Data analysis of the received signal strength indication is very essential for understanding the underlying location-dependent features and patterns of location fingerprints. This knowledge can assist a system designer in accurately modeling a positioning system, improving positioning performance, and efficiently designing such a system. This study investigates extensively through measurements, the features of the received signal strength indication reported by IEEE 802.11b/g wireless network interface cards. The results of the statistical data analysis help in identifying a number of phenomena that affect the precision and accuracy of indoor positioning systems. {\copyright} 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.} } @unpublished{pittir10758, month = {January}, title = {Interaction of basaltic dikes and wet lapilli tuff at glaciovolcanic centers: a case study of Sveifluh{\'a}ls, Iceland as a terrestrial analog for dike-cryosphere interaction on Mars}, author = {Holly M. Kagy}, year = {2012}, keywords = {basalt, dike, glaciovolcanic, Iceland, terrestrial analog, cryosphere, Mars, peperite, ice, glacier, volcano, pillow haystack, cryolith, sediment deformation, hydrothermal alteration, tindar, Sveifluh{\'a}ls, Reykjanes, phreatomagmatic, tephra, tuff, palagonitized, intrusion, pillow lava}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10758/}, abstract = {Basaltic dikes emplaced into formerly wet unconsolidated phreatomagmatic tephra deposits were investigated at a glaciovolcanic fissure-fed complex, Sveifluh{\'a}ls, Reykjanes Peninsula SW Iceland. Such dikes serve as excellent terrestrial analogs for high-level basaltic dike-cryosphere interactions on Mars. The dikes revealed several large and small-scale geomorphic and textural characteristics, which would aid satellite and ground-based identification of similar dikes on Mars. The dikes at Sveifluh{\'a}ls typically have narrow ({\ensuremath{<}}1.5m wide) coherent interiors of both pillowed and non-pillowed types, but they develop peperitic margins with a geomorphic expression that is often an order of magnitude larger than the coherent dike. This has important implications for recognizing dikes emplaced into the cryosphere, interpreting past climates on Mars, estimating dike widths from remote imagery, and calculating magma flux rates on Mars. Large-scale geomorphological features of the Sveifluh{\'a}ls dikes include local dike-bounded plateaus, adjacent and at lower elevation to phreatomagmatic tephra ridges, with surfaces of dark dike-derived talus. The dikes commonly form narrow steep-sided ridges and less frequently form eroded troughs. The dikes are associated with broad bounding areas of orange to reddish-brown host lapilli tuff (?hydrothermal reddening?), that extends for up to 20m on either side of the dikes, and contrasts with the more typical buff-colored palagonitized lapilli tuff that has not been intruded by dikes. The reddening is likely caused by the presence of concentrically banded zones of possible hematite in vesicles and pore-spaces. Drag-folded, rotated and slumped blocks or domains of the host may extend up to 30m from dike margins. The dikes have a gross tabular morphology, but are locally pillowed or billowy along their margins, and also include finger-like or elongate pillowed projections up to 5m in length from their margins into the host lapilli tuff. Both margins also commonly display 1-3m wide peperitic zones of both blocky and fluidal (including pillow-like) types. Interestingly, the bedding or lamination in the drag folded domains is usually better developed than in the surrounding host deposits. Narrow steep conical mounds of pillow lavas resembling pillow-like haystacks, described from the submarine environment and are interpreted as areas where the dikes emerge on the substrate surface. } } @article{pittir29832, volume = {16}, number = {5}, month = {September}, title = {The risks and rewards of expanding ICU capacity}, author = {JM Kahn}, year = {2012}, journal = {Critical Care}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29832/}, abstract = {ICU capacity strain is associated with increased morbidity and lost hospital revenue, leading many hospitals to increase the number of ICU beds. However, this approach can lead to inefficiency and waste. A recent report in Critical Care highlights a different approach: creating new service lines for low-risk patients. In this case, the authors started a post-anesthesia care unit with an intensivist-led care team, resulting in lower hospital costs with no changes in ICU mortality. Although this type of change carries some risks, and will not work for every hospital, it is an example of the creative solutions hospitals must sometimes undertake to maintain the supply of critical care in response to a rising demand. {\copyright} 2012 BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir22953, volume = {50}, number = {10}, month = {August}, author = {AY Kallai and CD Schunn and JA Fiez}, title = {Mental arithmetic activates analogic representations of internally generated sums}, journal = {Neuropsychologia}, pages = {2397 -- 2407}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22953/}, abstract = {The internal representation of numbers generated during calculation has received little attention. Much of the mathematics learning literature focuses on symbolic retrieval of math facts; in contrast, we critically test the hypothesis that internally generated numbers are represented analogically, using an approximate number system. In an fMRI study, the spontaneous processing of arithmetical expressions was tested. Participants passively viewed a sequence of double-digit addition expressions that summed to the same number. Adaptation was found in number-related regions in a fronto-parietal network. Following adaptation, arrays of dots were introduced, differing in their numerical distance from the sum of the addition expressions. Activation in voxels that showed adaptation to a repeated sum was also sensitive to the distance of the dot quantity from the sum. We conclude that participants exhibited adaptation to an internally generated number, that adapted representations were analogic in nature, and that these analogic representations may undergird arithmetic calculation. {\copyright} 2012 Elsevier Ltd.} } @article{pittir29132, volume = {1}, month = {October}, title = {Murine Tim-1 is excluded from the immunological synapse}, author = {LP Kane and J Lin and L Chen}, year = {2012}, journal = {F1000Research}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29132/}, abstract = {The interaction between T cells and APCs bearing cognate antigen results in the formation of an immunological synapse (IS). During this process, many receptors and signaling proteins segregate to regions proximal to the synapse. This protein movement is thought to influence T cell function. However, some proteins are transported away from the IS, which is controlled in part by ERM family proteins. Tim-1 is a transmembrane protein with co-stimulatory functions that is found on many immune cells, including T cells. However, the expression pattern of Tim-1 on T cells upon activation by APCs has not been explored. Interestingly, in this study we demonstrate that the majority of Tim-1 on activated T cells is excluded from the IS. Tim-1 predominantly resides outside of the IS, and structure/function studies indicate that the cytoplasmic tail influences Tim-1 polarization. Specifically, a putative ERM binding motif (KRK 244-246) in the Tim-1 cytoplasmic tail appears necessary for proper Tim-1 localization. Furthermore, mutation of the KRK motif results in enhanced early tyrosine phosphorylation downstream of TCR/CD28 stimulation upon ectopic expression of Tim-1. Paradoxically however, the KRK motif is necessary for Tim-1 co-stimulation of NFAT/AP-1 activation and co-stimulation of cytokine production. This work reveals unexpected complexity underlying Tim-1 localization and suggests potentially novel mechanisms by which Tim-1 modulates T cell activity.} } @inproceedings{pittir30158, volume = {52}, number = {5}, month = {May}, author = {RG Kaniecki}, title = {Management of Chronic Migraine with Quarterly Pericranial Nerve Blocks: A Prospective 12-Month Trial}, journal = {HEADACHE}, pages = {908 -- 908}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/30158/} } @unpublished{pittir11886, month = {June}, title = {INVESTIGATION OF TRANSFER TECHNIQUE BIOMECHANICS AMONG PERSONS WITH TETRAPLEGIA AND PARAPLEGIA}, author = {Padmaja Kankipati}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Biomechanics; upper limb pain; spinal cord injury; transfer; activities of daily living}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11886/}, abstract = {Due to lower limb paralysis people with SCI rely heavily on their upper extremities (UEs) for performing activities of daily living (ADL) of which wheelchair transfers lists as one of the ADL?s that are particularly taxing on the UEs. Preservation of UE function is extremely important to maintain independence and quality of life amongst people with Spinal Cord Injury. Although the Paralyzed Veterans of America developed Clinical Practice Guidelines to preserve UE function, limited research/recommendations are available for optimal transfer strategies that reduce loading on UE joints. Specific aims of this dissertation were to 1) Describe biomechanical strategies for preferred methods of transferring amongst persons with paraplegia and tetraplegia (Chapter 2), 2) Determine how taught transfer techniques and self-selected transferring reduce mechanical loading at the UE (Chapter 3), 3) Investigate how upper limb strength and balance impact loading at the UE joints during transfers (Chapter 4). 20 participants took part in the study, only 18 (17 male and 1 female) could execute the taught techniques. The group consisted of 12 persons with paraplegia (6 with complete \& 6 with incomplete injury) and 6 with tetraplegia (all with incomplete injury). A custom transfer measurement system was used to capture kinetic and kinematic measures of the UEs and feet while participants performed wheelchair transfers. Participants performed self-selected transfers \& three transfer techniques that varied on leading hand placement and trunk flexion. Functional measures recorded included: Strength, balance, anthropometrics and pain scores. Comparison of mechanical loading between the group with paraplegia and tetraplegia shed light on potential risk of injuries that may occur for each individual group. Taught technique comparison pointed towards a tradeoff, among force and moment components, at the leading and trailing arms, influenced by leading hand placement compared to amount of trunk flexion. Primarily a modified trunk upright technique was employed, trunk remained upright and hand placed close to the body, as preferred method of transferring. Impact of functional measures on transfer kinetics showed that transfer strategy may override functional capacity. Findings of this study will assist in refining clinical practice guidelines on safe level sitting pivot transfer strategies.} } @article{pittir29828, volume = {7}, number = {1}, month = {September}, title = {Is there an advantage to delivering breast boost in the lateral decubitus position?}, author = {N Kannan and P Kabolizadeh and H Kim and C Houser and S Beriwal}, year = {2012}, journal = {Radiation Oncology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29828/}, abstract = {Background: The purpose of this study was to compare the change in depth of target volume and dosimetric parameters between the supine and lateral decubitus positions for breast boost treatment with electron beam therapy.Methods: We analyzed 45 patients who were treated, between 2009-2010, with whole breast radiation (WBRT) followed by a tumor bed boost in the lateral decubitius position. Tumor bed volume, distance from skin to the maximal depth of the tumor bed, D90 (dose covering 90\% of the tumor bed volume), maximal dose, electron energy and doses to heart and lungs were compared. Additional variables of body mass index (BMI) and tumor bed location were also analyzed to see if there was a benefit limited to any subgroup.Results: Median BMI for the 45 patients treated was 30.6 (20.6-42.4). When comparing the supine scan to the lateral decubitus scan, there was no significant difference in the tumor bed volume (p = 0.116). There was a significant difference between depth to the tumor bed in the supine scan and lateral decubitus scan (p {\ensuremath{<}} 0.001). The mean maximum doses and D90 between the two scans were 110.7 (100.0-133.0)\% vs 106.1 (95.1-116.9)\% (p {\ensuremath{<}} 0.05) and 93.9 (81.3-01.0-101.0)\% vs. 98.2 (89.1-108.0)\% (p = 0.004) respectively. There was no difference in dose delivered to the lungs or heart between the two scans (p = 0.848 and p = 0.992 respectively). On subset analysis, there was a difference in depth to tumor that was seen across all BMI classes, including normal (p {$\leq$} 0.001, overweight (p {$\leq$} 0.001) and obese (p {$\leq$} 0.001). The majority of patients had a tumor in the upper outer quadrant (77.8\%) and on subset analysis, there was a significant difference in tumor bed volume (p {\ensuremath{<}} 0.01), depth to tumor (p {\ensuremath{<}} 0.01), tumor bed coverage [D90] (p {\ensuremath{<}} 0.05), maximum dose (p {\ensuremath{<}} 0.05) and energy (p {\ensuremath{<}} 0.001) for this location.Conclusions: Delivering a tumor bed boost in the lateral decubitus position reduces the distance to the tumor bed allowing for a lower energy treatment to be used to treat breast cancer. It improves coverage and decreases maximal dose to the target volume, all of which would help reduce skin morbidities and should be considered for patients with upper outer quadrant disease, irrespective of BMI status. {\copyright} 2012 Kannan et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir12084, month = {May}, title = {Intellectual Courage and the Social Construction of Terrorism: Embodying Reality.}, author = {Cynthia A. Karaffa}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Terrorism; Social Construction; Intellectual Courage; Political Science; Liberal Arts Education; Ethnocentrism, Women, and Culture.}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12084/}, abstract = {Undertaking the exploration of the diverse, thought-provoking interpretations students provided for the words ?terrorism? and ?terrorist? is the basis of this work. The purpose in describing their interpretations is to acknowledge, in some instances, their acceptance of and resistance to ?official? definitions and versions of ?reality? regarding terrorism and terrorist. My interest is in showing how reality is constructed and experienced by students and how we as researchers and educators may create new possibilities of reality. This display of reality utilizes seven female students? written discourse and is presented through the lens of sociological, political, and educational theories. Over the years I have taught sociology, social theory, research methods and political science. I have watched my students react with fascination (mostly positive, but sometimes negative) when learning about other cultures, belief systems, and values; expand their critical thinking skills; accept and reject elements of official doctrine and mass media produced acquiescent knowledge; and realize how the United States, with its hegemonic standing, culture, beliefs and values, affects and is affected by the rest of the world. In planning this study, I wanted to know how my students assemble their ?subjective? social reality and how they perceive, interpret, and experience ?objective? world realities. The title of this work, Intellectual Courage and the Social Construction of Terrorism: Embodying Reality, reflects the three main constructs: intellectual courage, social construction, and reality. The results display an expression of open-mindedness without intimidation. When discussing and analyzing their socially constructed realities, many students were able to think more creatively and critically when viewing ?reality? associate with terrorists and terrorism.} } @article{pittir16180, volume = {14}, number = {21}, month = {June}, author = {O Karalti and D Alf{\`e} and MJ Gillan and KD Jordan}, title = {Adsorption of a water molecule on the MgO(100) surface as described by cluster and slab models}, journal = {Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics}, pages = {7846 -- 7853}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16180/}, abstract = {The interaction of a water molecule with the (100) surface of MgO as described by cluster models is studied using MP2, coupled MP2 (MP2C) and symmetry-adapted perturbation theory (SAPT) methods. In addition, diffusion Monte Carlo (DMC) results are presented for several slab models as well as for the smallest, 2X2 cluster model. For the 2X2 model it is found that the MP2C, DMC, and CCSD(T) methods give nearly the same potential energy curve for the water-cluster interaction, whereas the potential energy curve from the SAPT calculations differs slightly from those of the other methods. The interaction of the water molecule with the cluster models of the MgO(100) surface is weakened upon expanding the number of layers from one to two and also upon expanding the description of the layers from 2X2 to 4X4 to 6X6. The SAPT calculations reveal that both these expansions of the cluster model are accompanied by reductions in the magnitudes of the induction and dispersion constributions. The best estimate of the energy for binding an isolated water molecule to the surface obtained from the cluster model calculations is in good agreement with that obtained from the DMC calculations using a 2-layer slab model with periodic boundary conditions. {\copyright} 2012 the Owner Societies.} } @unpublished{pittir12356, month = {August}, title = {Clinical Symptoms and Risk Factors To Refine Performance Characteristics of Laboratory Assays for Clostridium difficile Infections}, author = {Jaideep Karamchandani}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Clostridium difficile}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12356/}, abstract = {Current laboratory diagnostic assays for Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) vary in their performance characteristics, timeliness, and cost. The gold standard diagnostic assay, toxigenic culture, has a turnaround time of 4-7 days which makes it impractical for routine clinical use. Furthermore, There is no widely accepted standard for the laboratory diagnosis of CDI, and a variety of FDA-approved diagnostic assays are used at the discretion of hospital laboratories. Therefore, this study was conducted during November 2011-February 2012 on 524 stool samples from 427 patients to examine the performance characteristics (sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value) of five diagnostic assays including newer molecular assays. Toxigenic culture was used as the gold standard. To examine the possibility that the newer generation of molecular assays are identifying asymptomatic carriers, a retrospective chart review was conducted for patients with discrepant test patterns. In the absence of clinical data, molecular nucleic acid based assays (RT-PCR, iLAMP) possess superior performance characteristics. Additionally, there are no significant differences between mean C. difficile likelihood scores when comparing discrepant groups. Further, when examining presence of three main clinical factors including diarrhea, inpatient exposure, and antibiotic usage, there was no significant difference in the percentage of patients expressing these factors between each discrepant result group. Therefore, it is unlikely to refine the performance characteristics when incorporating clinical data. When examining semi-quantitative toxigenic culture which indicated C. difficile concentration in colony forming units per gram, there was no significant difference in scores between groups, indicating that C. difficile patients were likely to have CDI regardless of concentration. Similarly, the percentage of positive results on each toxin-detecting assay did not vary significantly. Furthermore, 54-100\% of patients in all semi-quantitative culture groups possessed all three clinical factors, indicating no relationship between presence of these factors and concentration. Public Health Implications: Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is one of the most common healthcare-associated infections. Since its discovery in 1978 as the cause of antibiotic associated pseudomembranous colitis, its incidence has increased significantly affecting a greater number of populations. Determining a diagnostic assay for use in clinical setting which possesses excellent performance characteristics allows for the reduction of disease burden. } } @article{pittir5946, volume = {26}, number = {1}, month = {January}, author = {HA Karimi and B Zimmerman and D Roongpiboonsopit and A Rezgui}, title = {Grid-based geoprocessing for integrated global navigation satellite system simulation}, journal = {Journal of Computing in Civil Engineering}, pages = {19 -- 27}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/5946/}, abstract = {It is anticipated that the integration of global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) will improve the overall positioning performance benefiting many existing applications and paving the way for the emergence of new location-based or location-aware applications. However, such integrations of GNSSs (iGNSS) will also require the development of a new generation of receivers and methodologies that can utilize the new information efficiently and effectively. This is especially true for real-time applications, such as navigation, for which time performance is of the essence in providing highly accurate positioning solutions. In this paper, we address time performance of iGNSS by focusing only on the visibility parameter, among all parameters, because the visibility solution is a prerequisite for the other parameters, and it is very expensive computationally. We propose an efficient web service for visibility computation, called iGNSS-v and discuss our experimentation with a grid computing platform. The results of the experiment indicate that grids can potentially benefit iGNSS by improving the time performances of its various components, but further optimization is needed in order to address the real-time requirement of iGNSS-QoS prediction. {\copyright} 2012 American Society of Civil Engineers.} } @article{pittir19065, volume = {26}, number = {8}, month = {August}, title = {Green Navigation Services}, author = {Hassan A Karimi}, year = {2012}, journal = {GIM International}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19065/} } @article{pittir17123, volume = {24}, number = {3}, month = {September}, author = {AM Karmarkar and BE Dicianno and JE Graham and R Cooper and A Kelleher and RA Cooper}, title = {Factors associated with provision of wheelchairs in older adults}, journal = {Assistive Technology}, pages = {155 -- 167}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17123/}, abstract = {The objectives of this study were: to identify the factors that are associated with prescription of wheeled mobility devices for older adults, and to determine the effect that living setting has on the types of devices that older adults receive. Retrospective medical chart review at the Center for Assistive Technology on 337 older individuals. These individuals were aged {\ensuremath{>}}60 years, and each of them received a new wheeled mobility device from the center during 2007 or 2008. Data were analyzed in three tiers: tier 1 (manual versus powered mobility devices); tier 2 (motorized scooters versus power wheelchairs); and tier 3 (customized versus standard power wheelchairs). For tier 1, the factor associated with higher odds for receipt of manual wheelchairs versus powered were: cognitive limitations (OR =.03). For tier 2, diagnosis of cardio-vascular and pulmonary conditions were associated with prescription of motorized scooters (OR = 3.9). For tier 3, neurological conditions (OR = 3.1), male gender (OR =.37), institutional living (OR =.23), and lower age (OR =.96) were associated with receipt of customized power wheelchairs. This study objectively describes factors associated with prescription of wheeled mobility for older adults. This information can aid in development of guidelines and improving standards of practice for prescription of wheelchairs for older adults. {\copyright} 2012 RESNA.} } @unpublished{pittir11164, month = {June}, title = {On the Repair of Impact Damaged Prestressed Concrete Bridge Girders}, author = {Jarret Lee Kasan}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Bridge Repair; Prestressed Concrete; Impact-damage; CFRP}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11164/}, abstract = {Prestressed concrete (PC) bridges are susceptible to catastrophic damage (often from over-height vehicle impact); the extent of which is often difficult to assess until it has progressed to the point of collapse. Impact damage occurs when a vehicle?s height is greater than the vertical clearance between the roadway and overpass and the vehicle strikes the overpass. Impact damage ranges in severity, but generally does not cause immediate collapse of the structure. However, when untreated, impact damage can result in further or accelerated deterioration often resulting in significant prestressing steel corrosion. Performing a structural repair requires confidence that the member in need of repair is behaving as anticipated. In doing so, the member should be viewed from a perspective different than conventional engineering assessment practices. For example, the contribution to section capacity of strands which have been exposed or severed due to over-height vehicle impact are neglected in conventional member assessment. This assessment practice has been found to be overly conservative because strands ?redevelop? their prestressing force upon entering sound concrete. Furthermore, due to the unanticipated composite action occurring between an AB girder and the barrier wall/curb slab assembly, many AB members that conventionally behave uniaxially are behaving asymmetrically and biaxial bending effects must be considered when determining flexural capacity. Additionally, few (often one) girders are damaged due to the localized nature of impact-damage. Therefore, a rating factor expression was developed to quantify damage to individual girders. Overall, this dissertation presents new approaches to the assessment, analysis and repair of PC girders. Employment of these assessment and analysis techniques allows for more accurate quantification of in-service member behavior, thus allowing for the most appropriate solution (member/bridge repair or replacement) to be selected. This approach is demonstrated through a case study analysis of a previous experimentally tested girder. Lastly, an approach to determining repair technology limitations (based on geometric and mechanical constraints) through an impact-damaged AB girder repair example is provided. } } @article{pittir29843, volume = {16}, number = {4}, month = {August}, title = {Clinical review: Serious adverse events associated with the use of rituximab - a critical care perspective}, author = {PM Kasi and HA Tawbi and CV Oddis and HS Kulkarni}, year = {2012}, journal = {Critical Care}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29843/}, abstract = {The advent of biologic agents has provided a more specific and targeted approach to the treatment of various hematological malignancies and other autoimmune disorders. Such biologic agents have been relatively well tolerated with fewer adverse events reported as compared with many other chemotherapeutic agents. Rituximab is a monoclonal antibody to the B-cell marker CD20 and is a common biologic agent widely used for the treatment of B-cell lymphoma, lymphoproliferative disorders, and inflammatory conditions that are refractory to conventional treatment, including rheumatoid arthritis and some vasculitides. However, through randomized controlled trials and post-marketing surveillance, an increasing number of serious adverse events are being associated with the use of rituximab, often leading to or complicating an intensive care unit admission. The purpose of this review is to focus on the severe complications that are associated with the use of rituximab and that require critical care. Management and prevention strategies for the most common complications along with some examples of its uses within the critical care setting are also discussed. {\copyright} 2012 BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir14170, volume = {7}, number = {4}, month = {April}, title = {Early treatment with fumagillin, an inhibitor of methionine aminopeptidase-2, prevents pulmonary hypertension in monocrotaline-injured rats}, author = {DJ Kass and E Rattigan and R Kahloon and K Loh and L Yu and A Savir and M Markowski and A Saqi and R Rajkumar and F Ahmad and HC Champion}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14170/}, abstract = {Pulmonary Hypertension (PH) is a pathophysiologic condition characterized by hypoxemia and right ventricular strain. Proliferation of fibroblasts, smooth muscle cells, and endothelial cells is central to the pathology of PH in animal models and in humans. Methionine aminopeptidase-2 (MetAP2) regulates proliferation in a variety of cell types including endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and fibroblasts. MetAP2 is inhibited irreversibly by the angiogenesis inhibitor fumagillin. We have previously found that inhibition of MetAP2 with fumagillin in bleomycin-injured mice decreased pulmonary fibrosis by selectively decreasing the proliferation of lung myofibroblasts. In this study, we investigated the role of fumagillin as a potential therapy in experimental PH. In vivo, treatment of rats with fumagillin early after monocrotaline injury prevented PH and right ventricular remodeling by decreasing the thickness of the medial layer of the pulmonary arteries. Treatment with fumagillin beginning two weeks after monocrotaline injury did not prevent PH but was associated with decreased right ventricular mass and decreased cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, suggesting a direct effect of fumagillin on right ventricular remodeling. Incubation of rat pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (RPASMC) with fumagillin and MetAP2-targeting siRNA inhibited proliferation of RPASMC in vitro. Platelet-derived growth factor, a growth factor that is important in the pathogenesis of PH and stimulates proliferation of fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells, strongly increased expression of MetP2. By immunohistochemistry, we found that MetAP2 was expressed in the lesions of human pulmonary arterial hypertension. We propose that fumagillin may be an effective adjunctive therapy for treating PH in patients. {\copyright} 2012 Kass et al.} } @unpublished{pittir12145, month = {September}, title = {System Level Assessment of Motor Control through Patterned Microstimulation in the Superior Colliculus}, author = {Husam Katnani}, year = {2012}, keywords = {microstimulation, superior colliculus, motor control, vector summation, vector averaging, spatiotemporal, decoding, blink reflex, omnipause neurons}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12145/}, abstract = {We are immersed in an environment full of sensory information, and without much thought or effort we can produce orienting responses to appropriately react to different stimuli. This seemingly simple and reflexive behavior is accomplished by a very complicated set of neural operations, in which motor systems in the brain must control behavior based on populations of sensory information. The oculomotor or saccadic system is particularly well studied in this regard. Within a visual environment consisting of many potential stimuli, we control our gaze with rapid eye movements, or saccades, in order to foveate visual targets of interest. A key sub-cortical structure involved in this process is the superior colliculus (SC). The SC is a structure in the midbrain which receives visual input and in turn projects to lower-level areas in the brainstem that produce saccades. Interestingly, microstimulation of the SC produces eye movements that match the metrics and kinematics of naturally-evoked saccades. As a result, we explore the role of the SC in saccadic motor control by manually introducing distributions of activity through neural stimulation. Systematic manipulation of microstimulation patterns were used to characterize how ensemble activity in the SC is decoded to generate eye movements. Specifically, we focused on three different facets of saccadic motor control. In the first study, we examine the effective influence of microstimulation parameters on behavior to reveal characteristics of the neural mechanisms underlying saccade generation. In the second study, we experimentally verify the predictions of computational algorithms that are used to describe neural mechanisms for saccade generation. And in the third study, we assess where neural mechanisms for decoding occur within the oculomotor network in order to establish the order of operations necessary for saccade generation. The experiments assess different aspects of saccadic motor control, which collectively, reveal properties and mechanisms that contribute to the comprehensive understanding of signal processing in the oculomotor system.} } @inproceedings{pittir13774, booktitle = {World Library and Information Congress: 78th IFLA General Conference and Assembly}, month = {August}, title = {New Librarians Worldwide: Mapping Out the Future}, author = {Robin Kear and Loida Garcia-Febo}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13774/} } @article{pittir14141, volume = {7}, number = {2}, month = {February}, title = {Multiple sources of contamination in samples from patients reported to have XMRV infection}, author = {MF Kearney and J Spindler and A Wiegand and W Shao and EM Anderson and F Maldarelli and FW Ruscetti and JW Mellors and SH Hughes and SFJ Le Grice and JM Coffin}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14141/}, abstract = {Xenotropic murine leukemia virus (MLV)-related retrovirus (XMRV) was reported to be associated with prostate cancer by Urisman, et al. in 2006 and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) by Lombardi, et al. in 2009. To investigate this association, we independently evaluated plasma samples from 4 patients with CFS reported by Lombardi, et al. to have XMRV infection and from 5 healthy controls reported to be XMRV uninfected. We also analyzed viral sequences obtained from supernatants of cell cultures found to contain XMRV after coculture with 9 clinical samples from 8 patients. A qPCR assay capable of distinguishing XMRV from endogenous MLVs showed that the viral sequences detected in the CFS patient plasma behaved like endogenous MLVs and not XMRV. Single-genome sequences (N = 89) from CFS patient plasma were indistinguishable from endogenous MLVs found in the mouse genome that are distinct from XMRV. By contrast, XMRV sequences were detected by qPCR in 2 of the 5 plasma samples from healthy controls (sequencing of the qPCR product confirmed XMRV not MLV). Single-genome sequences (N = 234) from the 9 culture supernatants reportedly positive for XMRV were indistinguishable from XMRV sequences obtained from 22Rv1 and XMRV-contaminated 293T cell-lines. These results indicate that MLV DNA detected in the plasma samples from CFS patients evaluated in this study was from contaminating mouse genomic DNA and that XMRV detected in plasma samples from healthy controls and in cultures of patient samples was due to cross-contamination with XMRV (virus or nucleic acid).} } @article{pittir22333, volume = {10}, number = {5}, month = {January}, author = {JL Keffer and JT Hammill and JR Lloyd and A Plaza and P Wipf and CA Bewley}, title = {Geographic variability and anti-staphylococcal activity of the chrysophaentins and their synthetic fragments}, journal = {Marine Drugs}, pages = {1103 -- 1125}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22333/}, abstract = {Drug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus is a continuing public health concern, both in the hospital and community settings. Antibacterial compounds that possess novel structural scaffolds and are effective against multiple S. aureus strains, including current drug-resistant ones, are needed. Previously, we have described the chrysophaentins, a family of bisdiarylbutene macrocycles from the chrysophyte alga Chrysophaeum taylori that inhibit the growth of S. aureus and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA). In this study we have analyzed the geographic variability of chrysophaentin production in C. taylori located at different sites on the island of St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands, and identified two new linear chrysophaentin analogs, E2 and E3. In addition, we have expanded the structure activity relationship through synthesis of fragments comprising conserved portions of the chrysophaentins, and determined the antimicrobial activity of natural chrysophaentins and their synthetic analogs against five diverse S. aureus strains. We find that the chrysophaentins show similar activity against all S. aureus strains, regardless of their drug sensitivity profiles. The synthetic chrysophaentin fragments indeed mimic the natural compounds in their spectrum of antibacterial activity, and therefore represent logical starting points for future medicinal chemistry studies of the natural products and their analogs. {\copyright} 2012 by the authors.} } @article{pittir18028, volume = {73}, number = {3}, title = {ADMIT THE CRIME OR DO THE TIME: PENNSYLVANIA'S JUVENILE TRANSFER CONUNDRUM}, author = {Lauren M Kelly}, year = {2012}, pages = {563 -- 586}, journal = {UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH LAW REVIEW}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18028/} } @article{pittir15904, volume = {7}, number = {9}, month = {September}, title = {Critical Role of Klf5 in Regulating Gene Expression during Post-Eyelid Opening Maturation of Mouse Corneas}, author = {D Kenchegowda and SAK Harvey and S Swamynathan and KL Lathrop and SK Swamynathan}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15904/}, abstract = {Background: Klf5 plays an important role in maturation and maintenance of the mouse ocular surface. Here, we quantify WT and Klf5-conditional null (Klf5CN) corneal gene expression, identify Klf5-target genes and compare them with the previously identified Klf4-target genes to understand the molecular basis for non-redundant functions of Klf4 and Klf5 in the cornea. Methodology/Principal Findings: Postnatal day-11 (PN11) and PN56 WT and Klf5CN corneal transcriptomes were quantified by microarrays to compare gene expression in maturing WT corneas, identify Klf5-target genes, and compare corneal Klf4- and Klf5-target genes. Whole-mount corneal immunofluorescent staining was employed to examine CD45+ cell influx and neovascularization. Effect of Klf5 on expression of desmosomal components was studied by immunofluorescent staining and transient co-transfection assays. Expression of 714 and 753 genes was increased, and 299 and 210 genes decreased in PN11 and PN56 Klf5CN corneas, respectively, with 366 concordant increases and 72 concordant decreases. PN56 Klf5CN corneas shared 241 increases and 98 decreases with those previously described in Klf4CN corneas. Xenobiotic metabolism related pathways were enriched among genes decreased in Klf5CN corneas. Expression of angiogenesis and immune response-related genes was elevated, consistent with neovascularization and CD45+ cell influx in Klf5CN corneas. Expression of 1574 genes was increased and 1915 genes decreased in WT PN56 compared with PN11 corneas. Expression of ECM-associated genes decreased, while that of solute carrier family members increased in WT PN56 compared with PN11 corneas. Dsg1a, Dsg1b and Dsp were down-regulated in Klf5CN corneas and their corresponding promoter activities were stimulated by Klf5 in transient co-transfection assays. Conclusions/Significance: Differences between PN11 and PN56 corneal Klf5-target genes reveal dynamic changes in functions of Klf5 during corneal maturation. Klf5 contributes to corneal epithelial homeostasis by regulating the expression of desmosomal components. Klf4- and Klf5-target genes are largely distinct, consistent with their non-redundant roles in the mouse cornea. {\copyright} 2012 Kenchegowda et al.} } @unpublished{pittir6185, month = {February}, title = {Rude Mechanicals: Staging Labor in the Early Modern English Theater}, author = {Matthew Kendrick}, year = {2012}, keywords = {labor, drama, theater, class, performance, vagrancy, guilds}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/6185/}, abstract = {This dissertation explores the relationship between the early modern theater and changing conceptions of labor. Current interpretations of the theater?s economic dimensions stress the correlation between acting and vagrant labor. I build on these approaches to argue that the theater?s connection to questions of labor was far more dynamic than is often thought. In particular, I argue that a full understanding of the relationship between the theater and labor requires that we take into account the theater?s guild origins. If theatricality was often associated with features of vagrant labor, especially cony-catching and rogue duplicity, the theater also drew significantly from medieval guild practices that valued labor as a social good and a creative force. I contend that the theater?s residual guild structure invests representations of labor with an ennobling and humanizing support. In a variety of plays, from Jonson?s Every Man in his Humour to Rowley?s A Shoemaker, A Gentleman, theatrical techniques like disguise and deception gesture towards vagrancy while also enabling laborers of various stripes to affirm their skillful creativity. Plays like A Midsummer Night?s Dream and The Tempest depict theatricality as an act of labor, a craftsmanlike endeavor rather than a commodity or mere function of commercial forces. In doing so, the plays carve out a space of artistic autonomy for the theater while affirming the creative power of labor.} } @article{pittir14151, volume = {8}, number = {3}, month = {March}, title = {A genome-wide scan of ashkenazi jewish crohn's disease suggests novel susceptibility loci}, author = {EE Kenny and I Pe'er and A Karban and L Ozelius and AA Mitchell and SM Ng and M Erazo and H Ostrer and C Abraham and MT Abreu and G Atzmon and N Barzilai and SR Brant and S Bressman and ER Burns and Y Chowers and LN Clark and A Darvasi and D Doheny and RH Duerr and R Eliakim and N Giladi and PK Gregersen and H Hakonarson and MR Jones and K Marder and DPB McGovern and J Mulle and A Orr-Urtreger and DD Proctor and A Pulver and JI Rotter and MS Silverberg and T Ullman and ST Warren and M Waterman and W Zhang and A Bergman and L Mayer and S Katz and RJ Desnick and JH Cho and I Peter}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS Genetics}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14151/}, abstract = {Crohn's disease (CD) is a complex disorder resulting from the interaction of intestinal microbiota with the host immune system in genetically susceptible individuals. The largest meta-analysis of genome-wide association to date identified 71 CD-susceptibility loci in individuals of European ancestry. An important epidemiological feature of CD is that it is 2-4 times more prevalent among individuals of Ashkenazi Jewish (AJ) descent compared to non-Jewish Europeans (NJ). To explore genetic variation associated with CD in AJs, we conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) by combining raw genotype data across 10 AJ cohorts consisting of 907 cases and 2,345 controls in the discovery stage, followed up by a replication study in 971 cases and 2,124 controls. We confirmed genome-wide significant associations of 9 known CD loci in AJs and replicated 3 additional loci with strong signal (p{\ensuremath{<}}5{$\times$}10 -6). Novel signals detected among AJs were mapped to chromosomes 5q21.1 (rs7705924, combined p = 2{$\times$}10 -8; combined odds ratio OR = 1.48), 2p15 (rs6545946, p = 7{$\times$}10 -9; OR = 1.16), 8q21.11 (rs12677663, p = 2{$\times$}10 -8; OR = 1.15), 10q26.3 (rs10734105, p = 3{$\times$}10 -8; OR = 1.27), and 11q12.1 (rs11229030, p = 8{$\times$}10 -9; OR = 1.15), implicating biologically plausible candidate genes, including RPL7, CPAMD8, PRG2, and PRG3. In all, the 16 replicated and newly discovered loci, in addition to the three coding NOD2 variants, accounted for 11.2\% of the total genetic variance for CD risk in the AJ population. This study demonstrates the complementary value of genetic studies in the Ashkenazim. {\copyright} 2012 Kenny et al.} } @unpublished{pittir10527, month = {January}, title = {Economic Analysis of Grid Level Energy Storage for the Application of Load Leveling}, author = {Robert/RJK Kerestes}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Load Leveling, Energy Storage, Sodium Sulfur Battery, Pumped Hydro Energy Storage, Opitmization, Economic Dispatch}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10527/}, abstract = {The benefits that exist on behalf of energy storage appear to be nearly limitless and there is no exception to this in power systems. Energy storage can be used to flatten an electrical load by charging the storage when the system load is low and discharging the storage when the system load is high. This technique is known as load leveling and is the storage application of interest in this thesis. One of the biggest benefits that load leveling can yield is the elimination of expensive gas turbine generators. Gas turbine generators are used because they can react to drastic changes in the system load that other generators can?t. Their downfall however, is that they are more expensive than the other generators. But if the load is level enough, there is no need to use gas turbine generators because there aren?t any drastic changes in the load. Load leveling requires a storage device to have a very large capacity. In this thesis several different large storage types are studied to see which ones are best suited for the application of load leveling. Ultimately both NaS batteries and pumped hydro storage are chosen to use for this study and the results for each is compared. A theoretical double peak system load with a peak value of 1950 megawatts is used for this study. The load is leveled by discretizing the energy storage?s charging and discharging profiles and allocating the stored energy by means of dynamic programming. An economic analysis of both the original case and the case in which energy storage is used to level the load is carried out. This study shows that energy storage used for the application of load leveling can be economically beneficial depending on the type of storage that is used. Battery storage is not quite ready to be used for this application but with some improvements to the technology it could be soon. Pumped storage on the other hand is the cheapest form grid level energy storage and can generate a great deal of economic gain in today?s power systems. } } @article{pittir16058, volume = {8}, number = {10}, month = {October}, title = {Evolutionary History and Attenuation of Myxoma Virus on Two Continents}, author = {PJ Kerr and E Ghedin and JV DePasse and A Fitch and IM Cattadori and PJ Hudson and DC Tscharke and AF Read and EC Holmes}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS Pathogens}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16058/}, abstract = {The attenuation of myxoma virus (MYXV) following its introduction as a biological control into the European rabbit populations of Australia and Europe is the canonical study of the evolution of virulence. However, the evolutionary genetics of this profound change in host-pathogen relationship is unknown. We describe the genome-scale evolution of MYXV covering a range of virulence grades sampled over 49 years from the parallel Australian and European epidemics, including the high-virulence progenitor strains released in the early 1950s. MYXV evolved rapidly over the sampling period, exhibiting one of the highest nucleotide substitution rates ever reported for a double-stranded DNA virus, and indicative of a relatively high mutation rate and/or a continually changing selective environment. Our comparative sequence data reveal that changes in virulence involved multiple genes, likely losses of gene function due to insertion-deletion events, and no mutations common to specific virulence grades. Hence, despite the similarity in selection pressures there are multiple genetic routes to attain either highly virulent or attenuated phenotypes in MYXV, resulting in convergence for phenotype but not genotype. {\copyright} 2012 Kerr et al.} } @unpublished{pittir11103, booktitle = {Lunch with a Librarian}, month = {February}, title = {Take Advantage of Open Access: Increased Impact, Control and Convenience}, author = {Andrea M Ketchum}, address = {Pittsburgh, PA}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Open, Access, Author, Rights, Author, Addendum, Scholarly, Communication, research, dissemination, journals, publishing, Research, Works, Act, NIH, Public, Access, Policy, repositories, citation, advantage, publisher, agreements, journal, selection, DOAJ, SHERPA/RoMEO}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11103/}, abstract = {You may have heard about publishing research articles in "Open Access" journals, but what does that really mean? This session will provide an overview of Open Access in the health sciences. We will cover benefits, such as increased citation rates and ability to retain control of your published work for personal and professional use, and how to select a journal to optimize "open-ness." Included in the "Lunch With a Librarian" series at the Health Sciences Library System at the University of Pittsburgh.} } @unpublished{pittir11102, booktitle = {Research Methodology Series - Continuing Education}, month = {February}, title = {Open Access Journals: the Pros and Cons}, author = {Andrea M Ketchum and Mary Lou Klem}, year = {2012}, keywords = {open, access, publishing, author, rights, scholarly, communication, journals, open, access, journals, nursing, research, dissemination, author, fees, repositories, author, addendum}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11102/}, abstract = {Presentation given at University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing Center for Research and Evaluation Research Methodology Series.} } @unpublished{pittir13623, month = {September}, title = {THE PROTEIN RELATIONSHIPS IN RESPIRATION REGULATION ELUCIDATED BY X-RAY CRYSTALLOGRAPHY}, author = {Regina Dawn Kettering}, year = {2012}, keywords = {glycerol kinase, octameric hemoglobin, Rap1, G-protein, x-ray crystallography}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13623/}, abstract = {Many pathways feed into the cellular respiration system. Hemoglobin supplies the oxygen necessary for aerobic respiration. Glycerol metabolism contributes electrons to the electron transport chain. Rap1B regulates superoxide production and platelet activation. I have determined 14 mutant structures that demonstrate how changes affect the regulation and function of the above systems: structural models of Enterococcus casseliflavus glycerol kinase mutants with glycerol or ethylene glycol, Pseudomonas aeruginosa glycerol kinase with glycerol or ethylene glycol, octameric human hemoglobin mutants, and two Rap1B mutants. The structures demonstrate that small changes in one region of the model can significantly affect the protein activity and adopted conformation of other portions of the model. In the case of En. casseliflavus GK, the presence of loop interactions creates a domino effect that closes the active cleft and orients the substrates properly for glycerol phosphorylation. The His232Arg mutants with glycerol or ethylene glycol contain contacts between the activation loop and Domain I that stabilize a conformation that causes closure of the glycerol binding cleft. The P. aeruginosa GK adopts similar conformations to the E. coli structure in the glycerol-bound form. The activation cleft closes when bound to glycerol rather than ethylene glycol as in the En. casseliflavus structures, but requires ATP to stabilize the area close to the active site entrance. The octameric structure of the hemoglobin mutants are affected by the presence of ligand in the molecule. The {\ensuremath{\alpha}}Asn78Cys mutant does not show the same type of variability in the disulfide bridges, and therefore it does not have as much variability in the tetramers as the {\ensuremath{\beta}}Gly83Cys mutants. The structures and crystallographic results suggest that the ligand stabilizes the {\ensuremath{\beta}}Gly83Cys mutant relative tetramer motion. The Rap1B models demonstrate changes in the switch II region determined by the phosphorylation of Ser179 rather than the presence of GTP. The negatively-charged Ser179Asp residue changes the interaction between the C-terminal loop and the core of the protein, presenting a binding area that is inaccessible in the Ser179Ala mutant.} } @article{pittir22408, volume = {16}, number = {7}, month = {July}, author = {OF Khabour and KH Alzoubi and T Eissenberg and P Mehrotra and M Azab and MV Carroll and RA Afifi and BA Primack}, title = {Waterpipe tobacco and cigarette smoking among university students in Jordan}, journal = {International Journal of Tuberculosis and Lung Disease}, pages = {986 -- 992}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22408/}, abstract = {SETTING: While waterpipe and cigarette smoking have been well studied in Syria and Lebanon, data from Jordan are limited. OBJECTIVES: To characterize the relative prevalence of waterpipe tobacco and cigarette smoking among university students in Jordan, and to compare the demographic and environmental factors associated with each form of tobacco use. DESIGN: We surveyed 1845 students randomly recruited from four universities in Jordan. We used multivariable logistic regression controlling for clustering of individuals within universities to determine associations between demographic and environmental covariates and waterpipe tobacco and cigarette use. RESULTS: Waterpipe tobacco smoking rates were 30\% in the past 30 days and 56\% ever, while cigarette smoking rates were 29\% in the past 30 days and 57\% ever. Past 30-day waterpipe tobacco smoking rates were 59\% for males and 13\% for females. Females had substantially lower odds than males of being current waterpipe (OR 0.12, 95\%CI 0.10-0.15) or cigarette (OR 0.08, 95\%CI 0.05-0.14) smokers. Current cigarette smoking was more significantly associated with markers of high socioeconomic status (SES) than waterpipe tobacco smoking. CONCLUSION: Waterpipe tobacco smoking is as common as cigarette smoking among Jordanian university students. While cigarette smoking is consistently associated with high SES, waterpipe tobacco smoking is more evenly distributed across various populations. {\copyright} 2012 The Union.} } @unpublished{pittir13092, month = {September}, title = {Survival Analysis of Shared-Path Adaptive Treatment Strategies}, author = {Kelley M. Kidwell}, year = {2012}, keywords = {dynamic treatment regime; survival function; two-stage design; proportional hazard; weighted log-rank test; sample size}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13092/}, abstract = {Adaptive treatment strategies closely mimic the reality of a physician's prescription process where the physician prescribes a medication to his/her patient and based on that patient's response to the medication, modifies the treatment. Two-stage randomization designs, more generally, sequential multiple assignment randomization trial (SMART) designs, are useful to assess adaptive treatment strategies where the interest is in comparing the entire sequence of treatments, including the patient's intermediate response. In this dissertation, we introduce the notion of shared-path and separate-path adaptive treatment strategies and propose weighted log-rank statistics to compare overall survival distributions of two shared-path or multiple two-stage adaptive treatment strategies. Large sample properties of the statistics are derived and the type I error rate and power of the tests are compared to standard statistics through simulation. We also propose a sample size equation to power a two-stage SMART comparing the overall survival of multiple adaptive treatment strategies. Public health significance: The treatment of many diseases and illnesses, especially those which are chronic (cancer, AIDS, depression, substance abuse, ADHD), includes sequences of treatments based on the individual's characteristics, behaviors, and responses. Treatment is inherently dynamic, but often, clinical trials are not designed or analyzed to take this dynamic feature into account. We present methods to adequately power and analyze clinical trials with time-to-event data which aim to compare these individualized sequences of treatments or adaptive treatment strategies. Through these methods and by comparing adaptive treatment strategies, patient outcomes can be operationalized and improved over time. } } @incollection{pittir27184, booktitle = {The Handbook of Intercultural Discourse and Communication}, month = {March}, title = {Ethnography of Speaking}, author = {SF Kiesling}, year = {2012}, pages = {77 -- 89}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/27184/} } @inproceedings{pittir27211, booktitle = {The Linguistics Seminar Series}, month = {April}, title = {Affect, alignment and investment in the analysis of stancetaking}, author = {Scott F Kiesling}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/27211/}, abstract = {Stance has been used increasingly as an important theoretical and analytical term in the study of language and social interaction. Most importantly, it has been deployed as a way to make connections between macro-level social identities and ideologies and what actually happens when people are talking to each other face to face. For all of this analytical success and fervor, stance is still a remarkably contested concept; it is still not clear that all researchers use the term in a similar way, and especially whether they agree on the linguistic resources a speaker can use to make a stance claim. In this paper I propose three main axes of stance and some linguistic resources for indicating these axes. While keeping in mind that stances are always negotiated and interactionally created in context, I propose three main axes: Alignment, affect, and investment. In order to demonstrate how these axes work, I consider how the word ?just? does alignment work in two conversations, considering how aspects of its contexts of use combine with its particular meaning and indexicalities to assert stance. I show how the single word modifies the three axes to differing degrees, and propose a heuristic for stance analysis, and how the phrase ?I'm just sayin'? has become a conventionalized marker of investment.} } @unpublished{pittir10572, month = {January}, title = {Estimating the Survival Distribution for Right-Censored Data with Delayed Ascertainment}, author = {Eun-Jin Kim}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Survival analysis, Right censored, Ascertainment}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10572/}, abstract = {In many clinical trials, patients are not followed continuously. This means their vital status may not be immediately recorded. In such cases, the results from the Kaplan-Meier estimator or the log rank test, popular methods used for survival analysis, may be biased or inconsistent. Hu and Tsiatis first produced a new estimator to estimate survival distribution for right-censored data with delayed ascertainment, Van der Laan and Hubbard modified their estimator. We investigate each of these proposed estimators and their properties. Using simulations, we compare these new estimators to each other and to the Kaplan-Meier estimator using different sample sizes, different failure rates, and different maximum delay times. The public health importance of this thesis is that we can partially alleviate the problem caused by delayed ascertainment in the analysis of right-censored time to event data by choosing the most accurate and consistent estimator that accounts for the delayed ascertainment. The reduction of bias in analyses of public health data ensures that such studies are reliable so that proper inference can be made and hence, potential public health policy can be based on an accurate decision making process.} } @article{pittir23177, volume = {23}, number = {49}, month = {December}, title = {Ultrananocrystalline diamond tip integrated onto a heated atomic force microscope cantilever}, author = {HJ Kim and N Moldovan and JR Felts and S Somnath and Z Dai and TDB Jacobs and RW Carpick and JA Carlisle and WP King}, year = {2012}, journal = {Nanotechnology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/23177/}, abstract = {We report a wear-resistant ultrananocrystalline (UNCD) diamond tip integrated onto a heated atomic force microscope (AFM) cantilever and UNCD tips integrated into arrays of heated AFM cantilevers. The UNCD tips are batch-fabricated and have apex radii of approximately 10 nm and heights up to 7 {\ensuremath{\mu}}m. The solid-state heater can reach temperatures above 600 ?C and is also a resistive temperature sensor. The tips were shown to be wear resistant throughout 1.2 m of scanning on a single-crystal silicon grating at a force of 200 nN and a speed of 10 {\ensuremath{\mu}}m s-1. Under the same conditions, a silicon tip was completely blunted. We demonstrate the use of these heated cantilevers for thermal imaging in both contact mode and intermittent contact mode, with a vertical imaging resolution of 1.9 nm. The potential application to nanolithography was also demonstrated, as the tip wrote hundreds of polyethylene nanostructures. {\copyright} 2012 IOP Publishing Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir10649, month = {February}, title = {MECHANISM UNDERLYING BRADYCARDIA AND LONG QT 2 RELATED ARRHYTHMIAS: INTERPLAY BETWEEN Ca2+ OVERLOAD AND ELECTRICAL DYSFUNCTION}, author = {Jong Kim}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Bradycardia;cardiac arrhythmia;long QT syndrome;torsade de pointe;optical mapping;afterdepolarization;triggered activity;dispersion of repolarization;action potential;calcium abnormality}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10649/}, abstract = {In numerous pathologies, spontaneous Ca2+ release (SCR) emanating from the sarcoplasmic reticulum and occurring during the action potential (AP) plateau can drive voltage instability that initiates arrhythmias, but the direct interplay between SCRs and arrhythmogeneis has not been fully understood in bradycardia and in long QT type 2 (LQT2) models. Simultaneous optical measurement of intracellular Ca2+ transient (CaiT) and AP were performed in Langendorff-perfused rabbit hearts following AV node ablation. Bradycardia and/or LQT2 was/were induced and the spatial heterogeneity of intracellular Ca2+ handling and its link to voltage dispersion were investigated. Upon switching from 120 to 50 beats/min, AP duration (APD) increased gradually with increasing occurrence of SCRs during the AP plateau (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.01, n=7). SCR was a) regionally heterogeneous, b) spatially correlated with APD prolongation, c) associated with enhanced dispersion of repolarization (DOR), d) reversed by pacing at 120 beats/min and e) suppressed with K201 (1?M) or flecainide (5?M), inhibitors of cardiac ryanodine receptors (RyR2) which reduced APD (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.01, n=5) and DOR (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.02, n=5). Western blots of Ca2+ channels/transporters revealed intrinsic spatial distributions of Cav1.2{\ensuremath{\alpha}} and NCX (but not RyR2, and SERCA2a) that correlate with the distribution of SCR and underlie the molecular mechanism responsible for SCRs. In LQT2, lability of Cai, voltage, and ECG signals increased during paced rhythm, before the appearance of early afterdepolarizations (EADs). When EADs appeared, Cai occasionally rose before voltage upstrokes at the origins of propagating EADs. Localized, areas of SCRs appeared in LQT2 and corresponded to areas of prolonged CaiT and APD. Triggered activity appeared after 3-5 min of LQT2 and emanated only at sites with steep membrane potential (Vm) gradients ({\ensuremath{\Delta}}Vm gradient percentile: 94.9 {$\pm$} 3.2\%, n=6). Pre- or post-treatment with K201 suppressed SCRs and decreased DOR, {\ensuremath{\Delta}}Vm and {\ensuremath{\Delta}}Cai. The reduction of {\ensuremath{\Delta}}Vm suppressed triggered activity (n=8/9 hearts). The results show that bradycardia and LQT2 elicit spatially discordant SCR, which is tightly correlated with AP instability. The SCR mediated-enhancement of repolarization gradients and AP prolongation can promote arrhythmogenesis. These findings underscore the importance of a detailed understanding of Ca2+-dependent arrhythmogenic mechanisms for the development of rational treatment strategies. } } @unpublished{pittir11917, month = {May}, title = {GENDER IN FUSION KUGAK: AN EXAMINATION OF WOMEN?S FUSION KUGAK GROUPS AND THEIR MUSIC PRACTICES}, author = {Jungwon Kim}, year = {2012}, keywords = {fusion kugak, Korean music, gender, women, Dasrum, MIJI, Cheongarang}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11917/}, abstract = {Fusion kugak is defined as a contemporary and popular form of the traditional Korean music kugak. On the one hand, fusion kugak can appeal to researchers in terms of its musical style since it includes arrangements of Western music for traditional Korean instruments with non-Korean instruments accompanying; new compositions for ensembles combining traditional Korean instruments with non-Korean instruments; and collaboration between fusion kugak and other performing arts such as dance, martial arts, or acrobatics. On the other hand, as a cultural phenomenon in contemporary Korea, fusion kugak can be viewed from the perspective of gender, a social value system. However, which positions women are occupying in the field of fusion kugak; how women are playing their gender roles in their fusion kugak performances; whether women demonstrate their sexuality in their fusion kugak practices or not; and how women empower themselves in fusion kugak are all questions that current research has not yet explored. In this thesis, I perform a case study of three women?s fusion kugak groups, Dasrum, MIJI, and Cheongarang, all of which consist of only women, in order to identify which gender issues can be explored through study of fusion kugak. By observing those women?s fusion kugak groups, looking at popular discourse on female kugak and fusion kugak performers, and analyzing those women?s fusion kugak groups? musical performances and activities, this thesis demonstrates how the women?s fusion kugak groups take part in the formation of Korean national identity; how female fusion kugak performers can play motherly roles in their fusion kugak practices; and how female fusion kugak performers represent their sexuality and exercise female agency in their fusion kugak activities. } } @unpublished{pittir13446, month = {September}, title = {Measuring Poverty as a Fuzzy and Multidimensional Concept: Theory and Evidence from the United Kingdom}, author = {Sung-Geun Kim}, year = {2012}, keywords = {poverty, fuzzy, multidimensional, measurement, capability, simulation, Monte Carlo method, Bootstrap.}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13446/}, abstract = {Previous research shows that poor people define poverty not only in material terms, but also in psychological and social terms, though it has been consistently characterized by economic resources in social sciences. Using a method based on `fuzzy-set' theory can be uniquely placed to answer the question as it allows us not only to tackle the problem of arbitrary poverty line, but also to integrate multiple dimensions into one index in an intuitive way. It can avoid the problem of poverty line entirely by introducing the concept of `membership function' which represents a degree of inclusion in a fuzzy subgroup poor. I therefore argue that the fuzzy measures of poverty can be a strong multidimensional alternative for the measures centered around income. To support the argument, two crucial points are clarfied. Firstly, the difference between traditional measures and the fuzzy measures needs to be discussed further since the discussions on the new measures so far lean more toward the fresh insights from the measures, so that the distinction in policy-relevant information has not been emphasized enough. From the comparison, I present that the fuzzy measures can provide a richer description of the social phenomenon, enabling a more acceptable distinction between different sub-populations. Secondly, how the measures behave statistically should be considered in depth because one of the most frequent critiques for poverty measurements is that present methods depend too much on arbitrary decisions like setting a poverty line. Utilizing a Monte Carlo simulation, I find that the measures (Totally Fuzzy, Totally Fuzzy and Relative, and Integrated Fuzzy and Relative) acknowledge two points quite well: (i) poverty is a multidimensional concept, and (ii) the `poor' and `non-poor' are not two mutually exclusive sets and the distinction can be `fuzzy'. It also turns out that the sampling distribution of the fuzzy measures is well-behaved, and they are robust to arbitrary choice in the estimation as well as reliable with relatively small sample size. Besides, I show that they are robust to measurement errors. Finally, I investigate the identification performance of each measure and show that the measures have a strong consistency.} } @article{pittir13211, volume = {7}, number = {1}, month = {January}, title = {Coordinated activity of ventral tegmental neurons adapts to appetitive and aversive learning}, author = {Y Kim and J Wood and B Moghaddam}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13211/}, abstract = {Our understanding of how value-related information is encoded in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) is based mainly on the responses of individual putative dopamine neurons. In contrast to cortical areas, the nature of coordinated interactions between groups of VTA neurons during motivated behavior is largely unknown. These interactions can strongly affect information processing, highlighting the importance of investigating network level activity. We recorded the activity of multiple single units and local field potentials (LFP) in the VTA during a task in which rats learned to associate novel stimuli with different outcomes. We found that coordinated activity of VTA units with either putative dopamine or GABA waveforms was influenced differently by rewarding versus aversive outcomes. Specifically, after learning, stimuli paired with a rewarding outcome increased the correlation in activity levels between unit pairs whereas stimuli paired with an aversive outcome decreased the correlation. Paired single unit responses also became more redundant after learning. These response patterns flexibly tracked the reversal of contingencies, suggesting that learning is associated with changing correlations and enhanced functional connectivity between VTA neurons. Analysis of LFP recorded simultaneously with unit activity showed an increase in the power of theta oscillations when stimuli predicted reward but not an aversive outcome. With learning, a higher proportion of putative GABA units were phase locked to the theta oscillations than putative dopamine units. These patterns also adapted when task contingencies were changed. Taken together, these data demonstrate that VTA neurons organize flexibly as functional networks to support appetitive and aversive learning. {\copyright} 2012 Kim et al.} } @unpublished{pittir13866, month = {August}, title = {Incorporation of Knowledge for Network-based Candidate Gene Prioritization}, author = {Chad Kimmel}, year = {2012}, keywords = {gene prioritization, network-based gene prioritization, knowledge networks}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13866/}, abstract = { In order to identify the genes associated with a given disease, a number of different high-throughput techniques are available such as gene expression profiles. However, these high-throughput approaches often result in hundreds of different candidate genes, and it is thus very difficult for biomedical researchers to narrow their focus to a few candidate genes when studying a given disease. In order to assist in this challenge, a process called gene prioritization can be utilized. Gene prioritization is the process of identifying and ranking new genes as being associated with a given disease. Candidate genes which rank high are deemed more likely to be associated with the disease than those that rank low. This dissertation focuses on a specific kind of gene prioritization method called network-based gene prioritization. Network-based methods utilize a biological network such as a protein-protein interaction network to rank the candidate genes. In a biological network, a node represents a protein (or gene), and a link represents a biological relationship between two proteins such as a physical interaction. The purpose of this dissertation was to investigate if the incorporation of biological knowledge into the network-based gene prioritization process can provide a significant benefit. The biological knowledge consisted of a variety of information about a given gene including gene ontology (GO) functional terms, MEDLINE articles, gene co-expression measurements, and protein domains to name just a few. The biological knowledge was incorporated into the network?s links and nodes as link and node knowledge respectively. An example of link knowledge is the degree of functional similarity between two proteins, and an example of node knowledge is the number of GO terms associated with a given protein. Since there were no existing network-based inference algorithms which could incorporate node knowledge, I developed a new network-based inference algorithm to incorporate both link and node knowledge called the Knowledge Network Gene Prioritization (KNGP) algorithm. The results showed that the incorporation of biological knowledge via link and node knowledge can provide a significant benefit for network-based gene prioritization. The KNGP algorithm was utilized to combine the link and node knowledge. } } @article{pittir29878, volume = {3}, number = {1}, month = {May}, author = {Paul R Kinchington and Anthony J St Leger and Jean-Marc G Guedon and Robert L Hendricks}, title = {Herpes simplex virus and varicella zoster virus, the house guests who never leave.}, journal = {Herpesviridae}, pages = {5 -- ?}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29878/}, abstract = {Human alphaherpesviruses including herpes simplex viruses (HSV-1, HSV-2) and varicella zoster virus (VZV) establish persistent latent infection in sensory neurons for the life of the host. All three viruses have the potential to reactivate causing recurrent disease. Regardless of the homology between the different virus strains, the three viruses are characterized by varying pathologies. This review will highlight the differences in infection pattern, immune response, and pathogenesis associated with HSV-1 and VZV.} } @unpublished{pittir11908, month = {May}, title = {Exploring speech in Russian fairy tales}, author = {Gabrielle Kirilloff}, year = {2012}, keywords = {gender, speech, Russian folklore}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11908/}, abstract = {Both because of their prevalence in contemporary culture and because of their ability to affect the acculturation of children, fairy tales are commonly examined from a feminist perspective. Many scholars have begun to ask if the distribution of agency in tales reflects patriarchal values, for example, are princesses nothing more than passive damsels in distress? One way to discuss these types of power relationships is to examine speech. The ability to speak can be viewed as a type of agency that shapes a character?s outcome within a narrative; it is through speech that characters bless, curse, and interact with one another. This paper seeks to explore the connections among agency, gender, moral alignment, and speech in Russian fairy tales from the Alexander Afanas?ev collection. As part of this research, the frequency of male and female vocalizations has been measured, as well as different types of silence. This research also examines the patterns of speech that appear in different tale typologies that revolve around a central female character.} } @unpublished{pittir10941, month = {June}, title = {Characterization of Periodic Disturbances In Rolling Element Bearings}, author = {Nicholas Kirsch}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Friction force, friction measurement, ball bearing, linear motion, velocity tracking, optical sensing}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10941/}, abstract = {The objective of this research is to observe and characterize periodic fluctuations in friction force of ball-element bearings that occur during velocity tracking motion. It is proposed that this periodic fluctuation in friction force is caused by the motion of the balls. We hope to show this relation by demonstrating that the frequency of the periodic fluctuation is equal to the frequency of the balls passing a position in the race. To illustrate the relation between the fluctuating friction force and the motion of the balls, a testbed has been built to measure friction force, ball passage rate, and velocity error during velocity tracking motion. The velocity error will be calculated from the measurement of position, and may show how the periodic fluctuations in friction force act like a periodic disturbance to the velocity. This paper will discuss the design and fabrication of the testbed, and the resulting measured signals that will be processed to determine their periodic content and to show how they are correlated. However, before inspecting the test results, some qualitative analysis of the system and models of the measured signals will be discussed to give insight into what we may expect from the results of the velocity tracking tests. An optical sensor has been designed and built to detect the motion of the balls in the race. The optical sensor measures the light reflected off the surface of a ball as it passes the sensing fiber. It was necessary to make some adjustments to the initial design of the sensor to correct for an instability in the signal. These adjustments, and the cause of the instability, will be discussed in this paper. Some ball bearings display an odd sticking behavior, where the friction force greatly increases beyond the approximated static friction force. This sticking behavior will be discussed, and how it relates to the motion of the balls in the race will be illustrated. It will also be discussed how the spectral density of friction force can be used to evaluate the performance of a bearing.} } @unpublished{pittir16878, month = {December}, title = {Peripheral Mediators of Colorectal Nociception and Sensitization}, author = {Michael E Kiyatkin}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Master of Science thesis}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16878/}, abstract = {Several ion channels are thought to facilitate colorectal afferent neuron sensitization, which contributes to abdominal pain in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). In the present work, I hypothesized that two such channels ? TRPV1 and P2X3 ? cooperate to mediate colorectal pain and hypersensitivity. To test this, I employed TRPV1-P2X3 double knockout (TPDKO) mice and pharmacological antagonists and evaluated combined channel contributions to whole- organism responses to colorectal distension (CRD) and afferent fiber responses to colorectal stretch. Baseline responses to CRD were unexpectedly greater in TPDKO compared with control mice, but zymosan-produced CRD hypersensitivity was absent in TPDKO mice. Relative to control mice, proportions of afferent mechano-sensitive and -insensitive classes were not different in TPDKO mice. Whereas responses of mucosal and serosal class afferents to mechanical probing were unaffected, responses of muscular (but not muscular/mucosal) afferents to stretch were significantly attenuated in TPDKO mice as was sensitization by inflammatory soup of both muscular and muscular/mucosal afferents. In pharmacological studies, the TRPV1 antagonist A889425 and P2X3 antagonist TNP-ATP, alone and in combination, applied onto stretch-sensitive afferent endings attenuated afferent responses to stretch; combined antagonism produced greater attenuation. In the aggregate, these observations suggest that: (1) genetic manipulation of TRPV1 and P2X3 leads to reduction in colorectal mechanosensation peripherally and compensatory changes and/or disinhibition of other channels centrally and (2) combined pharmacological antagonism produces more robust attenuation of mechanosensation peripherally than single antagonism. The relative importance of these channels appears to be enhanced in hypersensitivity, highlighting the potential utility of multi-target pharmacotherapy in IBS.} } @unpublished{pittir11855, month = {June}, title = {Constructing Christian Identities, One Canaanite Woman At A Time: Studies in the Reception of Matthew 15:21-28}, author = {Nancy Klancher}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Reception History, Biblical Interpretation, Biblical Exegesis, Matthew 15:21-28, Canaanite Woman, Christian anathema, Christian exemplum, anti-Jewish polemic}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11855/}, abstract = {This dissertation is a cross-cultural, cross-temporal reception history that identifies, compiles, and analyzes approximately fifty interpretations of a provocative New Testament passage, Matthew 15:21-28. It explores how these exegetical texts, ranging from the 2nd to the 21st centuries, construct a wide range of Christian identities and ideals and how those ideals function within their own historical cultures and discourses and in relation to preceding interpretations. This reception history combines historical contextualization and close readings of texts. It relies on theoretical premises from the history of reading, reception theory, and feminist analyses of subject- or identity-formation. It examines multiple encounters with one biblical text and the accumulation of traditions and topoi that built up as a result of those encounters over time. These theoretical frames raise critical questions about exegetical depictions of religious identities, most importantly in this study, about the formative function of exegetical texts and the importance of aesthetic experience, not as pure perception or abstracted pleasure, but as engagement with tradition, historical understanding, and the transformation of reader and text. Thus, in this study interpretations and receptions of the Canaanite woman are understood as historical technologies of the Christian self. Two interpretive strategies repeatedly surface; they persist, even as their content morphs to fit the questions and concerns of their historically-bound iterations. Over time, the figure of the Canaanite woman is repeatedly used within texts ranging from anti-heretical polemic to devotional literature as either 1) the occasion for anathema or 2) universal exemplum. The dissertation argues that there is a disciplinary power in such exegetical strategies, one consciously leveraged to ensure solidarity, unity of belief, conformity of practice, and maintenance of institutional hierarchies. Such historical uses of biblical interpretation and the dynamics of their reception are the focus of the dissertation. It concludes with a discussion of current scholarship on Matt 15:21-28 and considers the implications of the dissertation{--}both its method and its findings{--}for the current practice of reception history.} } @article{pittir29813, volume = {3}, number = {1}, month = {December}, title = {Common genetic variants, acting additively, are a major source of risk for autism}, author = {L Klei and SJ Sanders and MT Murtha and V Hus and JK Lowe and AJ Willsey and D Moreno-De-Luca and TW Yu and E Fombonne and D Geschwind and DE Grice and DH Ledbetter and C Lord and SM Mane and CL Martin and DM Martin and EM Morrow and CA Walsh and NM Melhem and P Chaste and JS Sutcliffe and MW State and EH Cook and K Roeder and B Devlin}, year = {2012}, journal = {Molecular Autism}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29813/}, abstract = {Background: Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are early onset neurodevelopmental syndromes typified by impairments in reciprocal social interaction and communication, accompanied by restricted and repetitive behaviors. While rare and especially de novo genetic variation are known to affect liability, whether common genetic polymorphism plays a substantial role is an open question and the relative contribution of genes and environment is contentious. It is probable that the relative contributions of rare and common variation, as well as environment, differs between ASD families having only a single affected individual (simplex) versus multiplex families who have two or more affected individuals. Methods. By using quantitative genetics techniques and the contrast of ASD subjects to controls, we estimate what portion of liability can be explained by additive genetic effects, known as narrow-sense heritability. We evaluate relatives of ASD subjects using the same methods to evaluate the assumptions of the additive model and partition families by simplex/multiplex status to determine how heritability changes with status. Results: By analyzing common variation throughout the genome, we show that common genetic polymorphism exerts substantial additive genetic effects on ASD liability and that simplex/multiplex family status has an impact on the identified composition of that risk. As a fraction of the total variation in liability, the estimated narrow-sense heritability exceeds 60\% for ASD individuals from multiplex families and is approximately 40\% for simplex families. By analyzing parents, unaffected siblings and alleles not transmitted from parents to their affected children, we conclude that the data for simplex ASD families follow the expectation for additive models closely. The data from multiplex families deviate somewhat from an additive model, possibly due to parental assortative mating. Conclusions: Our results, when viewed in the context of results from genome-wide association studies, demonstrate that a myriad of common variants of very small effect impacts ASD liability. {\copyright} 2012 Klei et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir13038, month = {September}, title = {Investigating the combined burden of transcription and quality control errors in yeast}, author = {Kristin Klucevsek}, year = {2012}, keywords = {RKR1, RTF1, Prions, Nonstop Protein, PAF1, Quality control}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13038/}, abstract = {The Rtf1 subunit of the Paf1 complex is required for specific conserved transcription-coupled histone modifications, including histone H2B lysine 123 monoubiquitylation. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, deletion of RTF1 is lethal in the absence of Rkr1, a ubiquitin-protein ligase involved in the destruction of nonstop proteins, which arise from mRNAs lacking stop codons or translational read-through into the poly(A) tail. To understand the combined requirement for H2B ubiquitylation and protein quality control in yeast, I performed a transposon-based mutagenesis screen to identify suppressors of rtf1{\ensuremath{\Delta}} rkr1{\ensuremath{\Delta}} lethality. I found that mutations in the genes encoding RNA Polymerase III subunit Rpc17, sister chromatid cohesion protein Chl1, or the protein chaperone Hsp104 could rescue viability. Of these genes, the role of Hsp104 in yeast is best understood. Hsp104 plays a role in prion propagation, including the maintenance of [PSI+], which contributes to the synthesis of nonstop proteins. I demonstrate that rtf1{\ensuremath{\Delta}} and rkr1{\ensuremath{\Delta}} are synthetically lethal only in the presence of [PSI+]. The deletion, inactivation, and overexpression of HSP104 or the overexpression of prion-encoding genes URE2 and LSM4 clear [PSI+] and rescue rtf1{\ensuremath{\Delta}} rkr1{\ensuremath{\Delta}} lethality. In addition, the presence of [PSI+] decreases the fitness of rkr1{\ensuremath{\Delta}} strains. I investigated whether the loss of RTF1 exacerbates an overload in nonstop proteins in rkr1{\ensuremath{\Delta}} [PSI+] strains but, using reporter plasmids, found that rtf1{\ensuremath{\Delta}} decreases nonstop protein levels, indicating that excess nonstop proteins may not be the cause of synthetic lethality. Although the mechanism of suppression is not yet clear, mutations in CHL1 suppress this rtf1{\ensuremath{\Delta}}-specific defect by increasing nonstop protein levels. In addition, I have performed experiments to identify substrates and interacting partners for Rkr1 and these results have further indicated a role of Rkr1 in protein quality control. My data suggest that the loss of Rtf1-dependent histone modifications increases a burden on quality control in rkr1{\ensuremath{\Delta}} [PSI+] cells. Importantly, my research indicates an essential connection between these conserved processes of transcription and quality control.} } @article{pittir29922, volume = {7}, number = {S1}, month = {December}, author = {Emilee Knowlton and Giovanna Rappocciolo and Frank J Jenkins and Mariel Jais and Paolo Piazza and Charles R Rinaldo}, title = {Human herpesvirus 8 replicates in primary B lymphocytes and induces polyfunctional cytokine and chemokine responses}, publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC}, journal = {Infectious Agents and Cancer}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29922/} } @article{pittir18860, volume = {26}, number = {4}, month = {February}, author = {BA Koblin and S Bonner and B Powell and P Metralexis and JE Egan and J Patterson and G Xu and DR Hoover and K Goodman and J Chin and HV Tieu and P Spikes}, title = {A randomized trial of a behavioral intervention for black MSM: The DiSH study}, journal = {AIDS}, pages = {483 -- 488}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18860/}, abstract = {Objective: To test a new behavioral intervention for black MSM in reducing sexual risk and increasing social support and intentions to use condoms. Design: A single-site, unblinded randomized trial in New York City with 3-month follow-up. Methods: Participants (n=283) reporting at least two sexual partners and unprotected anal intercourse with a man in the past 3 months were enrolled and randomized to a social-cognitive theory-based intervention or control comparison. Men in the intervention group participated in five 2-h group sessions focused on creating a group environment with sexual risk-reduction information and exercises woven into joint meal preparation and sharing activities, while exploring self-efficacy perceptions and outcome expectancies. Intervention (n=142) and control (n=141) groups received standard HIV counseling and testing at baseline. Results: No significant differences were found between study arms at 3 months in number of male partners, number of unprotected anal intercourse partners, proportion reporting unprotected sex, number of acts protected by condoms, self-efficacy, condom attitudes, condom intentions, social isolation and psychological distress. In both arms combined, declines from baseline to 3 months were observed in sexual risk behaviors, social isolation and psychological distress, whereas self-efficacy, condom attitudes and condom intentions improved. Conclusion: As the HIV epidemic continues to have a dramatic impact on black MSM in the USA, the urgency to design innovative interventions continues. {\copyright} 2012 Wolters Kluwer Health {\ensuremath{|}} Lippincott Williams \& Wilkins.} } @article{pittir29856, volume = {13}, number = {S1}, month = {July}, author = {Gabriel Koch Ocker and Thanos Tzounopoulos and Brent Doiron}, title = {Adaptation shapes spike train correlations: theory and application to tinnitus}, publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC}, journal = {BMC Neuroscience}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29856/} } @unpublished{pittir16871, month = {December}, title = {Electrophilic Nitro-Fatty Acid Regulation of Mitochondrial Function}, author = {Jeffrey Koenitzer}, year = {2012}, keywords = {succinate dehydrogenase, prostaglandin reductase-1, Langendorff, etomoxir}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16871/}, abstract = {Nitro-fatty acids (NO2-FA) are endogenous mediators generated by reactions of nitrogen dioxide with unsaturated fatty acids. They are electrophilic and signal by reversibly reacting with nucleophilic cysteine and histidine residues on proteins, thus altering protein function. NO2-FA mediate cardioprotection in in vivo models of ischemia-reperfusion (IR) through not fully defined mechanisms. Mitochondria play a central role in both IR injury and redox signaling, with respiratory inhibition a common pathway in cardioprotective signaling. It was hypothesized that NO2-FA induce tissue-protective metabolic shifts through mitochondrial interactions. Respirometry in isolated mitochondria demonstrated that complex II-linked, but not complex I-linked, respiration was inhibited by nitro-oleic acid (OANO2). Activity assays showed that inhibition of complex II was pH-dependent and reversible by the low molecular weight thiol {\ensuremath{\beta}}-mercaptoethanol (BME). Modification of the Fp subunit of complex II was confirmed following electrophoresis of mitochondrial proteins from OANO2-treated lysates: addition of BME displaced protein-bound OANO2 and led to the formation of BME-OANO2 adducts as measured by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS). Extracellular flux analysis, where O2 consumption and media acidification are measured as surrogates for respiratory and glycolytic activity, was employed to determine the effects of OANO2 on bioenergetics in cardiomyoblasts. Pre-incubation with OANO2 inhibited basal and maximal respiration, while acute OANO2 injection inhibited respiration and promoted glycolysis, a tissue-protective shift in IR. Protection against IR injury to the heart was observed in a Langendorff-perfused heart model as improved cardiac output recovery during reperfusion in the presence OANO2. Additional studies monitored metabolism of OANO2 in cardiac tissue and cells. NO2-FA are metabolized by prostaglandin reductase-1 (PGR1) and {\ensuremath{\beta}}-oxidation to yield non-electrophilic nitroalkanes and shorter chain nitroalkenes, respectively. PGR1 is inhibited by indomethacin and ?-oxidation by etomoxir, so these compounds were used to inhibit OANO2 metabolism. Indomethacin treatment attenuated OANO2 reduction and enhanced protein adduction by OANO2 and its electrophilic metabolites, while etomoxir favored the formation of non-electrophilic nitroalkanes and reduced {\ensuremath{\beta}}-oxidation products. Indomethacin also significantly enhanced OANO2 signaling in cardiomyoblasts, elevating heme oxygenase-1 expression compared to OANO2 alone. This work identifies mitochondrial actions of NO2-FA relevant to cardioprotection, and illuminates NO2-FA metabolic pathways relevant to signaling in the myocardium. } } @article{pittir14153, volume = {7}, number = {3}, month = {March}, title = {Enabling large-scale design, synthesis and validation of small molecule protein-protein antagonists}, author = {D Koes and K Khoury and Y Huang and W Wang and M Bista and GM Popowicz and S Wolf and TA Holak and A D{\"o}mling and CJ Camacho}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14153/}, abstract = {Although there is no shortage of potential drug targets, there are only a handful known low-molecular-weight inhibitors of protein-protein interactions (PPIs). One problem is that current efforts are dominated by low-yield high-throughput screening, whose rigid framework is not suitable for the diverse chemotypes present in PPIs. Here, we developed a novel pharmacophore-based interactive screening technology that builds on the role anchor residues, or deeply buried hot spots, have in PPIs, and redesigns these entry points with anchor-biased virtual multicomponent reactions, delivering tens of millions of readily synthesizable novel compounds. Application of this approach to the MDM2/p53 cancer target led to high hit rates, resulting in a large and diverse set of confirmed inhibitors, and co-crystal structures validate the designed compounds. Our unique open-access technology promises to expand chemical space and the exploration of the human interactome by leveraging in-house small-scale assays and user-friendly chemistry to rationally design ligands for PPIs with known structure. {\copyright} 2012 Koes et al.} } @article{pittir29910, volume = {9}, month = {May}, title = {Preventive immunization of aged and juvenile non-human primates to beta-amyloid}, author = {J Kofler and B Lopresti and C Janssen and AM Trichel and E Masliah and OJ Finn and RD Salter and GH Murdoch and CA Mathis and CA Wiley}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of Neuroinflammation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29910/}, abstract = {Background: Immunization against beta-amyloid (A{\ensuremath{\beta}}) is a promising approach for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, but the optimal timing for the vaccination remains to be determined. Preventive immunization approaches may be more efficacious and associated with fewer side-effects; however, there is only limited information available from primate models about the effects of preclinical vaccination on brain amyloid composition and the neuroinflammatory milieu.Methods: Ten non-human primates (NHP) of advanced age (18-26 years) and eight 2-year-old juvenile NHPs were immunized at 0, 2, 6, 10 and 14 weeks with aggregated A{\ensuremath{\beta}}42 admixed with monophosphoryl lipid A as adjuvant, and monitored for up to 6 months. Anti-A{\ensuremath{\beta}} antibody levels and immune activation markers were assessed in plasma and cerebrospinal fluid samples before and at several time-points after immunization. Microglial activity was determined by [11C]PK11195 PET scans acquired before and after immunization, and by post-mortem immunohistochemical and real-time PCR evaluation. A{\ensuremath{\beta}} oligomer composition was assessed by immunoblot analysis in the frontal cortex of aged immunized and non-immunized control animals.Results: All juvenile animals developed a strong and sustained serum anti-A{\ensuremath{\beta}} IgG antibody response, whereas only 80 \% of aged animals developed detectable antibodies. The immune response in aged monkeys was more delayed and significantly weaker, and was also more variable between animals. Pre- and post-immunization [11C]PK11195 PET scans showed no evidence of vaccine-related microglial activation. Post-mortem brain tissue analysis indicated a low overall amyloid burden, but revealed a significant shift in oligomer size with an increase in the dimer:pentamer ratio in aged immunized animals compared with non-immunized controls (P {\ensuremath{<}} 0.01). No differences were seen in microglial density or expression of classical and alternative microglial activation markers between immunized and control animals.Conclusions: Our results indicate that preventive A{\ensuremath{\beta}} immunization is a safe therapeutic approach lacking adverse CNS immune system activation or other serious side-effects in both aged and juvenile NHP cohorts. A significant shift in the composition of soluble oligomers towards smaller species might facilitate removal of toxic A{\ensuremath{\beta}} species from the brain. {\copyright} 2012 Kofler et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir13496, month = {September}, title = {Novel mechanisms of cytokine signaling on T-cell and MDSC function in glioma development}, author = {Gary Kohanbash}, year = {2012}, keywords = {MicroRNA, T-cell, MDSC, glioma, GBM}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13496/}, abstract = {Malignant gliomas are the most common primary brain tumors with dismal prognosis. A growing line of evidence supports significant roles of immunosurveillance for prevention and regulation of cancer development. For example, tumor infiltrating T-cells are capable of killing tumor cells and are a positive prognostic factor for cancer patients. T-cell immune responses are classified into distinct effector cell types, type-1 or type-2, based on their cytokine-secreting profiles. We have demonstrated that tumor-specific type-1 T-cells, but not type-2 T-cells, can efficiently traffic into CNS tumor sites and mediate effective therapeutic efficacy via a type-1 chemokine CXCL10 and an integrin receptor VLA-4. Despite the importance of the type-1 T cell response, cancers, including GBMs, secrete numerous type-2 cytokines that promote tumor proliferation and immune escape. The hallmark cytokines of type-1 and type-2 immune responses are IFNs and IL-4, respectively. We therefore sought to better understand the role of IL-4 and IFN signaling in gliomas. We herein demonstrate that the miR-17-92 cluster is down-regulated in T-cells in both human and mouse tumors, dependent on IL-4R signaling. Further, ectopic expression of miR-17-92 cluster in T-cells resulted in enhanced IFN-{\ensuremath{\gamma}} and IL-2 production and resistance to activation induced cell death (AICD) (Aim 1). We next examined IL-4R{\ensuremath{\alpha}} on immunosuppressive myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). Interestingly we found that IL-4R{\ensuremath{\alpha}} was up-regulated on human and mouse glioma infiltrating, but not peripheral, MDSCs. Additionally, IL-4R{\ensuremath{\alpha}} expression promoted arginase activity, T-cell suppressing abilities and glioma growth (Aim 2). As type I IFNs are important for anti-glioma type-1 immunity, we further examined how type I IFNs impact glioma patient prognosis. As there are multiple type I IFNs, our collaborators assisted us to identify potentially important genes by single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis. We found that IFN-pathway genes IFN- alpha receptor-1 (IFNAR1) and the IFN-alpha-8 (IFNA8) promoter both had SNPs associated with glioma prognosis. By luciferase assay and electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) we demonstrated that the A-allele, which is associated with better glioma patient survival, but not the C-allele of rs12553612 in the promoter region of IFNA8 allows for OCT-1 binding and activity of the IFNA8 promoter (Aim 3). Overall, our data suggests that type-2 promoting has a dual role in suppressing glioma immunity through decreased T-cell functioning and enhanced MDSC function. Type-2 promoted suppression of glioma immunity can thus lead to better glioma patient prognosis, a significant public health achievement.} } @unpublished{pittir10641, month = {January}, title = {Community College Workforce Development Faculty in Western Pennsylvania}, author = {Byron/C Kohut}, year = {2012}, keywords = {higher education, workforce development, faculty, community college, continuing education, professional development}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10641/}, abstract = {The workforce development division (WFD) of a community college performs a vital task in the community within which it serves through the actions of its faculty. Because community colleges are mission driven to offer affordable, accessible education to local communities, understanding WFD activities within the community college, WFD, and local and regional businesses to develop effective and efficient credit and noncredit WFD programs of interest requires an understanding of the roles WFD faculty play in the development of WFD. Although the roles and responsibilities of the majority of higher education faculty are evident in related academic literature, literature describing the function of WFD faculty is relatively uncommon. WFD faculty are burdened by a lack of clarity in the identification of their roles and responsibilities. Additionally, the topic of recruitment and selection processes of WFD faculty hardly exists in academic literature. WFD faculty are not bound by conventional descriptions of higher education faculty as their roles are often dictated by collaborative demands of the community, the community college, business, and industry. Recruiting and selecting a faculty member for a community college presents an opportunity to align a department?s goals and objectives with the mission of the community college. This study focused on the roles and responsibilities, recruitment, selection, and professional development of WFD faculty within the community college. The purpose of this study was to describe the expectations of the community college WFD faculty as depicted by both the workforce development faculty and their administrative leaders regarding the status, the function, and the background of WFD faculty in the community college. One step toward a solution was to develop a WFD faculty profile. WFD leaders and faculty were asked to participate in a study aimed at building a profile of WFD faculty. Developing a WFD faculty profile clarifies the roles and responsibilities of this segment of the community college faculty to the college. The profile included the current status and background of WFD faculty. Further, the answers to the following questions aimed to clarify the issues involved and aid in an understanding of the WFD faculty roles and responsibilities to the community college. } } @article{pittir14147, volume = {7}, number = {3}, month = {March}, author = {Diana L. Kolbe and Julie A. DeLoia and Patricia Porter-Gill and Mary Strange and Hanna M. Petrykowska and Alfred Guirguis and Thomas C. Krivak and Lawrence C. Brody and Laura Elnitski}, editor = {Joseph Califano}, title = {Differential Analysis of Ovarian and Endometrial Cancers Identifies a Methylator Phenotype}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, pages = {e32941 -- e32941}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14147/} } @unpublished{pittir12524, month = {June}, title = {Patterns of Justice System Involvement Among Child-Welfare Involved Youth}, author = {Karen Kolivoski}, year = {2012}, keywords = {child welfare, juvenile justice, group-based trajectory analysis, justice system }, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12524/}, abstract = {Using empirical data to examine the nature and extent of justice system involvement among groups of young people with placement experiences in the child welfare system can help streamline policies to better target those most at-risk for juvenile detention and jail. However,research has yet to fully address the unique groups within this population utilizing juvenile and criminal justice system measures. Thus, I use trajectory analysis to examine differences in justice system involvement and child welfare placements as related to demographics, child welfare experiences, and other systems involvement. Data come from a larger study on child welfare children and youth in a birth cohort in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania; the sample for this study focused on one child per family with at least one year in out of home child welfare placement (N = 794). I performed semiparametric group-based polynomial logistic regression trajectory analysis to determine distinct trajectory groups within the larger sample on juvenile and criminal justice system measures, as well as for three main child welfare placement types. I conducted multinomial logistic regression to examine predictors that differentiated justice system group membership. I performed crosstabulations of the trajectory groups to show detail of the relationship between justice system trajectories and placement trajectories. Results indicated that a five-group model fit the best conceptually and statistically for justice systems, foster homes, and group homes, and a four-group model fit best for regular residential placements. Child welfare youth have high percentages of involvement in multiple systems, and heterogeneity of justice system involvement exists among child welfare youth. Although most have no to low justice system involvement, others have substantial involvement grouped on similar experiences. Congregate care placement was only a significant predictor for the chronic justice system group. This research has important findings that can guide our interventions for youth, particularly in the areas of screening and assessment. A quantitative screening tool could be an efficient way of identifying young people most at risk for justice system involvement, while a qualitative assessment could include in-depth questions acknowledging that child welfare and other system experiences matter for justice system involvement.} } @inproceedings{pittir12386, booktitle = {HRI'12: International Conference on Human-Robot Interaction}, month = {March}, title = {Towards human control of robot swarms}, author = {Andreas Kolling and Steven Nunnally and Michael Lewis}, publisher = {ACM}, year = {2012}, journal = {Proceedings of the seventh annual ACM/IEEE international conference on Human-Robot Interaction}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12386/} } @article{pittir12710, volume = {7}, number = {6}, month = {June}, author = {Ivan Komarov and Roshan M D?Souza and Jose-Juan Tapia}, title = {Accelerating the Gillespie {\ensuremath{\tau}}-Leaping Method Using Graphics Processing Units}, publisher = {Public Library of Science (PLoS)}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, pages = {e37370 -- e37370}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12710/} } @unpublished{pittir10858, month = {January}, title = {Biomarkers Of Chronic Stress}, author = {Laalithya Konduru}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Chronic stress, Biomarkers, Allostatic load}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10858/}, abstract = {Stress is defined as the internal process that occurs when a person is faced with a demand that is perceived to exceed the resources available to effectively deal with it. It can be either acute or chronic. The current approaches to measure stress include self reports, measures of affect, measures of stressor exposure and use of biomarkers. This paper seeks to act as a review of the various neuroendocrine biomarkers for chronic stress. A brief overview of metabolic and immunological biomarkers is also included. Serum cholesterol, serum albumin, waist-hip ratio and glycosylated hemoglobin are some of the common metabolic biomarkers. IL-6, TNF-{\ensuremath{\alpha}}, CRP and IGF-1 are some of the common immunological biomarkers. Neuroendocrine factors are effective as biomarkers because they are the first to respond to a given stressor and coordinate the response of many other biological systems. Cortisol, DHEA, adrenaline, noradrenaline, dopamine and aldosterone are some of the commonly used neuroendocrine biomarkers. Use of any single biomarker for stress is associated with problems of multiple determination. Allostatic load model utilizes a suite of indicators to measure the effects of stress across many physiological systems. Use of novel technologies like metabolomics, determining changes in ultrastructure of mitochondria and quantifying the induction of DRR1 in the brain are some interesting research areas that could throw up novel biomarkers. Chronic stress is associated with many diseases. It can possibly potentiate the health effects of various exposures and thus, it is an important public health concern. In order to conduct research on any given condition, it is important to characterize that condition. Biomarkers can help characterize stress objectively. Stress, unlike any other pathological condition, triggers a non-specific response and influences multiple physiological systems. Ideally, a study would use a set of biomarkers to measure stress response, while using questionnaires to measure stressor exposure and stress appraisal. The challenge lies in coming up with a set of biomarkers that can capture the chronic stress related information and weed out other confounding factors. } } @unpublished{pittir11949, month = {September}, title = {THE IMPACT OF MODERN INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES ON SOCIAL MOVEMENTS}, author = {Piotr Konieczy}, year = {2012}, keywords = {social movements, Internet, new media, adoption}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11949/}, abstract = {Information and communication technologies (ICTs) have empowered non-state social actors, notably, social movements. They were quick to seize ICTs in the past (printing presses, television, fax machines), which was a major factor in their successes. Mass email campaigns, blogs, their audio- and video- variants (the podcasts and the videocasts), social networks like Facebook and MySpace, and other tools, such as Twitter, are increasingly popular among the movements and their activists. The extremely rapid diffusion of new technologies has raised a lot of questions about their impact on many areas of life from macroeconomic consequences to interpersonal relations, including much comment on their impact on social movements. Social historians are even rethinking the whole history of media. However, up to this point, we have no broad view of how social movement organizations are making use of the media. What types of movements are making use of new media? In what way are they using them and for what purposes? Are they more common in younger organizations, or in organizations that operate on larger geographic scales? Does their use lead to a sense of democratic empowerment? To answer these questions, this study analyzes an internet-based survey of four populations of social movement organizations ranging from the local to the international in geographic scope (four specific populations analyzed are: Pittsburgh (USA), Poland, the international movements, and the movements with high visibility online). This dissertation explores the use (and the non-use) of ICTs in the first broad survey on their use by modern social movements. It provides a broad overview of the movement's demographics (location, range, goal) and their membership (size, activity). It details the diffusion and use of over twenty ICTs, analyzing the success stories of email, static websites, phones and social networking, as well as the relatively poor performance of blogs, podcasts and faxes. Primary research questions revolve around the blurring boundaries between members and non-members (unofficial supporters and volunteers), the use of new media (by whom and for what), and the consequences of those trends (such as opposition to professionalization, or the empowerment of activists).} } @article{pittir14740, volume = {7}, number = {1}, month = {January}, author = {A Koontz and M Toro and P Kankipati and M Naber and R Cooper}, title = {An expert review of the scientific literature on independent wheelchair transfers}, journal = {Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology}, pages = {20 -- 29}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14740/}, abstract = {Purpose. The purpose of this study was to perform a literature review and seek expert opinion on the relevance and strength of the evidence concerning setup and transfer performance. Methods. Scientific literature databases were searched until June 2009 using 43 keywords resulting in 339 articles. These were internally reviewed and narrowed to 41 articles which were formally assessed by 13 external experts. Articles that 80\% or more of the reviewers scored as moderately or highly relevant were included in the final results. Results. Nineteen articles met the relevancy criteria. The aspects of setup that experts felt were addressed to some degree included vertical transfer distance, transferring across a gap and position of the mobility device relative to target destination. None of the 19 articles were scored as having strong to very strong resulting evidence. Conclusions. There is a consensus among studies that transferring to a higher surface implies greater exertion of the upper limb. However, there is no evidence concerning how high or low, how close, and how much space is needed next to the target surface so it can be accessible by a majority of wheelchair users. {\copyright} 2012 Informa UK, Ltd.} } @article{pittir15771, volume = {28}, number = {4}, month = {January}, author = {AM Koontz and LA Worobey and IM Rice and JL Collinger and ML Boninger}, title = {Comparison between overground and dynamometer manual wheelchair propulsion}, journal = {Journal of Applied Biomechanics}, pages = {412 -- 419}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15771/}, abstract = {Laboratory-based simulators afford many advantages for studying physiology and biomechanics; however, they may not perfectly mimic wheelchair propulsion over natural surfaces. The goal of this study was to compare kinetic and temporal parameters between propulsion overground on a tile surface and on a dynamometer. Twenty-four experienced manual wheelchair users propelled at a self-selected speed on smooth, level tile and a dynamometer while kinetic data were collected using an instrumented wheel. A Pearson correlation test was used to examine the relationship between propulsion variables obtained on the dynamometer and the overground condition. Ensemble resultant force and moment curves were compared using cross-correlation and qualitative analysis of curve shape. User biomechanics were correlated (R ranging from 0.41 to 0.83) between surfaces. Overall, findings suggest that although the dynamometer does not perfectly emulate overground propulsion, wheelchair users were consistent with the direction and amount of force applied, the time peak force was reached, push angle, and their stroke frequency between conditions. {\copyright} 2012 Human Kinetics, Inc.} } @incollection{pittir16808, booktitle = {Textbook of Rehabilitation Engineering}, editor = {Toshiyasu Yamamoto}, title = {Biomechanics of and Interfaces for Wheelchair Mobility}, author = {Alicia M Koontz and Rory A Cooper and Rosemarie Cooper and Michael L Boninger and Donald M Spaeth and MJ Dvorznak and A Dobson}, address = {Tokyo, Japan}, publisher = {Ishiyaku Publishers Inc.}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16808/} } @inproceedings{pittir16318, booktitle = {Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America}, title = {The impact of transfer setup on hand positioning during independent transfers}, author = {Alicia M Koontz and Genevieve M Jerome and Maria Luisa Toro Hernandez and Rory A Cooper}, year = {2012}, journal = {Proceedings of the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America 2012 Annual Conference}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16318/} } @inproceedings{pittir16404, booktitle = {Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America 2012 Annual Conference}, title = {Effect of muscle fatiguing tasks on subacromial space in manual wheelchair users}, author = {Alicia M Koontz and Yen-Sheng Lin and Lynn Worobey and Michael L Boninger}, year = {2012}, journal = {Proceedings of the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America 2012 Annual Conference}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16404/} } @unpublished{pittir16407, booktitle = {Association of Academic Physiatrists 2012 Annual Meeting}, title = {Physical factors affecting ability to perform pressure relief in wheelchair users}, author = {Alicia M Koontz and D Lindemann and L Worobey and M Oyster}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16407/} } @inproceedings{pittir16319, booktitle = {Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America 2012 Annual Conference}, title = {Transfer assessment instrument reliability in person and via video}, author = {Alicia M Koontz and Chung-Ying Tsai and Claire Hoelmer}, year = {2012}, journal = {Proceedings of the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America 2012 Annual Conference}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16319/} } @inproceedings{pittir16321, booktitle = {Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America 2012 Annual Conference}, title = {The feet free moment and ground reaction force in wheelchair transfer: a pilot study}, author = {Alicia M Koontz and Chung-Ying Tsai and Padmaja Kankipati and Claire Hoelmer}, year = {2012}, journal = {Proceedings of the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America 2012 Annual Conference}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16321/} } @article{pittir22290, volume = {8}, number = {2}, month = {April}, author = {Mark T. Kozlowski}, title = {The Influence of Ron Paul: Loud Bang or Flash in the Pan?}, journal = {Pitt Political Review}, pages = {34 -- 38}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22290/} } @unpublished{pittir10524, month = {February}, title = {Finite Element Analysis of Graft Stress in Various Tunnel Positions for ACL Reconstruction}, author = {Scott/J Kramer}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Finite Element Analysis, Ligament Mechanics, Knee Biomechanics, ACL Reconstruction}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10524/}, abstract = {The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the most important ligaments in stabilizing the knee and injury of the ACL is one of the most common athletic injuries. The ACL has limited ability to heal due to its avascular environment; therefore, the primary treatment is to replace the ACL with a tissue graft. There is debate among clinicians on appropriate reconstruction techniques, such as the position and orientation of the graft. Improper graft placement may result in elevated forces and stresses which could lead to graft failure. This study examines the forces and stresses present in grafts when placed in five common tunnel positions, four anatomic and one non-anatomic. This was accomplished using computational models and experimental testing. Through the use of the finite element (FE) method a computational model was developed. Three-dimensional solid models of the tibia and femur were obtained through medical imaging in order to obtain the actual geometry of the bones and precise location of tunnel positions. An isotropic hyperelastic material was used to model the cylindrical grafts, placed in their respective positions. Three-dimensional joint kinematics were obtained via a six degree-of-freedom robotic manipulator and were used for input into the computational model. Graft stress and tension were calculated after the kinematics were applied for two initial conditions: stress-free and pre-stress that resulted from a 40N initial tension. Graft tension for each case was compared to experimentally determined graft force, obtained from a separate study of 16 cadaveric knee specimens. Results suggest that the FE estimation of graft tension in the 40 N tension initial condition more closely resembled experimental data and the non-anatomic graft placement resulted in elevated graft tension and stress. } } @article{pittir29959, volume = {12}, number = {1}, month = {December}, title = {Clinical decision support of therapeutic drug monitoring of phenytoin: measured versus adjusted phenytoin plasma concentrations}, author = {Matthew D Krasowski and Louis E Penrod}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Medical Informatics and Decision Making}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29959/} } @article{pittir14178, volume = {7}, number = {4}, month = {April}, title = {Whole genome sequencing to investigate the emergence of clonal complex 23 Neisseria meningitidis serogroup Y disease in the United States}, author = {MG Krauland and JCD Hotopp and DR Riley and SC Daugherty and JW Marsh and NE Messonnier and LW Mayer and H Tettelin and LH Harrison}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14178/}, abstract = {In the United States, serogroup Y, ST-23 clonal complex Neisseria meningitidis was responsible for an increase in meningococcal disease incidence during the 1990s. This increase was accompanied by antigenic shift of three outer membrane proteins, with a decrease in the population that predominated in the early 1990s as a different population emerged later in that decade. To understand factors that may have been responsible for the emergence of serogroup Y disease, we used whole genome pyrosequencing to investigate genetic differences between isolates from early and late N. meningitidis populations, obtained from meningococcal disease cases in Maryland in the 1990s. The genomes of isolates from the early and late populations were highly similar, with 1231 of 1776 shared genes exhibiting 100\% amino acid identity and an average {\ensuremath{\pi}}N = 0.0033 and average {\ensuremath{\pi}}S = 0.0216. However, differences were found in predicted proteins that affect pilin structure and antigen profile and in predicted proteins involved in iron acquisition and uptake. The observed changes are consistent with acquisition of new alleles through horizontal gene transfer. Changes in antigen profile due to the genetic differences found in this study likely allowed the late population to emerge due to escape from population immunity. These findings may predict which antigenic factors are important in the cyclic epidemiology of meningococcal disease.} } @article{pittir29798, volume = {9}, number = {Suppl }, title = {Effects of 28 days of beta-alanine and creatine monohydrate supplementation on muscle carnosine, body composition and exercise performance in recreationally active females}, author = {Julie Y Kresta and Jonathan Oliver and Andrew Jagim and Richard Kreider and Jim Fluckey and Steven Reichman and Susanne Talcott}, year = {2012}, pages = {P17 -- P17}, journal = {Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29798/} } @article{pittir16392, number = {60}, month = {June}, title = {Growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis biofilms.}, author = {K Kulka and G Hatfull and AK Ojha}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of visualized experiments : JoVE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16392/}, abstract = {Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the etiologic agent of human tuberculosis, has an extraordinary ability to survive against environmental stresses including antibiotics. Although stress tolerance of M. tuberculosis is one of the likely contributors to the 6-month long chemotherapy of tuberculosis (1), the molecular mechanisms underlying this characteristic phenotype of the pathogen remain unclear. Many microbial species have evolved to survive in stressful environments by self-assembling in highly organized, surface attached, and matrix encapsulated structures called biofilms (2-4). Growth in communities appears to be a preferred survival strategy of microbes, and is achieved through genetic components that regulate surface attachment, intercellular communications, and synthesis of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) (5,6). The tolerance to environmental stress is likely facilitated by EPS, and perhaps by the physiological adaptation of individual bacilli to heterogeneous microenvironments within the complex architecture of biofilms (7). In a series of recent papers we established that M. tuberculosis and Mycobacterium smegmatis have a strong propensity to grow in organized multicellular structures, called biofilms, which can tolerate more than 50 times the minimal inhibitory concentrations of the anti-tuberculosis drugs isoniazid and rifampicin (8-10). M. tuberculosis, however, intriguingly requires specific conditions to form mature biofilms, in particular 9:1 ratio of headspace: media as well as limited exchange of air with the atmosphere (9). Requirements of specialized environmental conditions could possibly be linked to the fact that M. tuberculosis is an obligate human pathogen and thus has adapted to tissue environments. In this publication we demonstrate methods for culturing M. tuberculosis biofilms in a bottle and a 12-well plate format, which is convenient for bacteriological as well as genetic studies. We have described the protocol for an attenuated strain of M. tuberculosis, mc(2)7000, with deletion in the two loci, panCD and RD1, that are critical for in vivo growth of the pathogen (9). This strain can be safely used in a BSL-2 containment for understanding the basic biology of the tuberculosis pathogen thus avoiding the requirement of an expensive BSL-3 facility. The method can be extended, with appropriate modification in media, to grow biofilm of other culturable mycobacterial species. Overall, a uniform protocol of culturing mycobacterial biofilms will help the investigators interested in studying the basic resilient characteristics of mycobacteria. In addition, a clear and concise method of growing mycobacterial biofilms will also help the clinical and pharmaceutical investigators to test the efficacy of a potential drug.} } @article{pittir15810, volume = {49}, number = {1}, month = {March}, author = {A Kumar and AM Karmarkar and DM Collins and A Souza and ML Oyster and R Cooper and RA Cooper}, title = {Pilot study for quantifying driving characteristics during power wheelchair soccer}, journal = {Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development}, pages = {75 -- 82}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15810/}, abstract = {This study determined the driving characteristics of wheelchair users during power wheelchair soccer games. Data for this study were collected at the 28th and 29th National Veterans Wheelchair Games. Nineteen veterans who were 18 years or older and power wheelchair soccer players completed a brief demographic survey and provided information about their power wheelchairs. A customized data-logging device was placed on each participant's wheelchair before power soccer game participation. The data logger was removed at the end of the final game for each participant. The average distance traveled during the games was 899.5 +/- 592.5 m, and the average maximum continuous distance traveled was 256.0 +/- 209.4 m. The average wheelchair speed was 0.8 +/- 0.2 m/s, and the average duration of driving time was 17.6 +/- 8.3 min. Average proportion of time spent at a speed {\ensuremath{>}}1 m/s was 30.7\% +/- 33.8\%, between 0.5 and 1 m/s was 16.2\% +/- 34.4\%, and {\ensuremath{<}}0.5 m/s was 21.4\% +/- 24.3\%. The information from this descriptive study provides insight for future research in the field of adapted sports for people with high levels of impairments who use power wheelchairs for their mobility.} } @article{pittir14148, volume = {7}, number = {3}, month = {March}, title = {US public support for vaccine donation to poorer countries in the 2009 H1N1 pandemic}, author = {S Kumar and SC Quinn and KH Kim and KM Hilyard}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14148/}, abstract = {Background: During the 2009 H1N1 pandemic, the global health community sought to make vaccine available "in developing nations in the same timeframe as developed nations." However, richer nations placed advance orders with manufacturers, leaving poorer nations dependent on the quantity and timing of vaccine donations by manufacturers and rich nations. Knowledge of public support for timely donations could be important to policy makers during the next pandemic. We explored what the United States (US) public believes about vaccine donation by its country to poorer countries. Methods and Findings: We surveyed 2079 US adults between January 22 nd and February 1 st 2010 about their beliefs regarding vaccine donation to poorer countries. Income (p = 0.014), objective priority status (p = 0.005), nativity, party affiliation, and political ideology (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.001) were significantly related to views on the amount of vaccine to be donated. Though party affiliation and political ideology were related to willingness to donate vaccine (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.001), there was bipartisan support for timely donations of 10\% of the US vaccine supply so that those "at risk in poorer countries can get the vaccine at the same time" as those at risk in the US. Conclusions: We suggest that the US and other developed nations would do well to bolster support with education and public discussion on this issue prior to an emerging pandemic when emotional reactions could potentially influence support for donation. We conclude that given our evidence for bipartisan support for timely donations, it may be necessary to design multiple arguments, from utilitarian to moral, to strengthen public and policy makers' support for donations. {\copyright} 2012 Kumar et al.} } @unpublished{pittir16996, month = {October}, title = {Achieving Gender Equity in Education in South Sudan: Post-Conflict Challenges and Opportunities}, author = {Paul Deng Kur}, year = {2012}, keywords = {gender equity, education, south sudan}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16996/}, abstract = {This study investigates gender inequalities in South Sudan that are affecting women?s and girls? participation in education. Non-governmental agencies have condemned this inequality in education, but there has been little progress towards remedying it because the country?s leadership failed to perceive it as a problem. Women and girls are isolated from the male-dominated South Sudanese mainstream society. This study explores why females have low participation rates in the education system in South Sudan. The absence of females in the education system and the job market is affecting not only the women?s or girls? wellbeing, but also the welfare of South Sudan as a nation. The lack of consistency in support of Education for All (EFA) has been a challenge for the South Sudanese at least from the international and economic perspectives. Gender equity in education has not been achieved because educational attainment is usually predicted by the socioeconomic status of the family and being male. Females whose families were better off financially before the war were still limited in their access education. Although this educational exclusion of females continues to be a major concern little has been done to correct it. Little research has been done on this subject, meaning there is not much literature about gender inequalities especially in education in South Sudan. Therefore, this study makes a useful contribution to this important topic.} } @article{pittir16052, volume = {8}, number = {9}, month = {September}, title = {Coupling between Catalytic Loop Motions and Enzyme Global Dynamics}, author = {Z Kurkcuoglu and A Bakan and D Kocaman and I Bahar and P Doruker}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS Computational Biology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16052/}, abstract = {Catalytic loop motions facilitate substrate recognition and binding in many enzymes. While these motions appear to be highly flexible, their functional significance suggests that structure-encoded preferences may play a role in selecting particular mechanisms of motions. We performed an extensive study on a set of enzymes to assess whether the collective/global dynamics, as predicted by elastic network models (ENMs), facilitates or even defines the local motions undergone by functional loops. Our dataset includes a total of 117 crystal structures for ten enzymes of different sizes and oligomerization states. Each enzyme contains a specific functional/catalytic loop (10-21 residues long) that closes over the active site during catalysis. Principal component analysis (PCA) of the available crystal structures (including apo and ligand-bound forms) for each enzyme revealed the dominant conformational changes taking place in these loops upon substrate binding. These experimentally observed loop reconfigurations are shown to be predominantly driven by energetically favored modes of motion intrinsically accessible to the enzyme in the absence of its substrate. The analysis suggests that robust global modes cooperatively defined by the overall enzyme architecture also entail local components that assist in suitable opening/closure of the catalytic loop over the active site. {\copyright} 2012 Kurkcuoglu et al.} } @unpublished{pittir12187, month = {September}, title = {Three Essays on the Social Aspect of Consumer Decision Making: Social Presence, Social Power, and Social Prediction }, author = {Didem Kurt}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Social Influence, Social Presence, Social Power, Social Prediction, Agency-Communion Theory, Self-Monitoring, Endowment Effect, Financial Risk Taking}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12187/}, abstract = {Previous research suggests that social influence and social prediction (i.e., how would others behave in a similar situation?) can have a profound impact on individuals? consumption patterns. Despite the popularity of the social aspect of decision making in consumer research, there are certain topics that received very little attention to date. In my dissertation, I explore three such underresearched topics, namely (1) the effect of the presence of an accompanying friend on consumer spending, (2) the impact of social power on financial risk taking, and (3) the accuracy of social predictions in the context of endowment. Each essay addresses an issue that either stems from the difference in individuals? focus on the self versus others (Essays 1 and 2) or is a manifestation of the self-other difference (Essay 3). My first essay documents that agentic consumers spend more when they shop with a friend as compared to when they shop alone, whereas the amount spent by communal consumer is about the same regardless of whether they shop with a friend. I attribute this to the notion that agentic consumers are self-focused and strive for status and thus, engage in self-promotion through increased spending while shopping with friends. On the other hand, spending more to impress a friend is not consistent with the modest nature of communal consumers, leading them to keep their spending under control in the presence of a friend. My second essay demonstrates that having power versus lacking power over others increases financial risk taking among agentic, but not communal, individuals. I explain this finding with the notion that self-oriented individuals associate power with self-interest goals, whereas other-oriented individuals associate power with responsibility goals. That is, since increased wealth can fortify agentic individuals? powerful position and help them maintain their status, they tend to make risky financial decisions when they experience a state of power. However, taking risks with the goals of enhancing financial position and maintaining the status associated with power is inconsistent with communal goals. Mediation analysis provides support for the proposed underlying mechanism. Finally, my third essay examines whether consumers accurately predict how valuable an object would be to other consumers. Building on research in several domains including affective psychology of value, empathy gaps, and social prediction, I propose and find that owners underestimate the average selling price stated by other owners, whereas buyers overestimate the average buying price stated by other buyers. I attribute this to a self-other difference in the value function arising from empathy gaps. Accordingly, I find that the documented effects are attenuated when either an external influence (e.g., similarity priming) or one?s high cognitive and emotional ability to connect with others helps reduce empathy gaps. Taken together, my dissertation examines the social aspect of consumer decision making from three different perspectives that are closely related to consumers? welfare and well-being: (1) the costly influence of friends? presence in the market place, (2) the propensity to take higher financial risk due to the possession of social power, and (3) the biased predictions of the valuations of other consumers. I discuss in depth the theoretical and practical implications of my dissertation. } } @article{pittir18861, volume = {24}, number = {3}, month = {June}, author = {SP Kurtz and ME Buttram and HL Surratt and RD Stall}, title = {Resilience, syndemic factors, and serosorting behaviors among HIV-positive and HIV-negative substance-using MSM}, journal = {AIDS Education and Prevention}, pages = {193 -- 205}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18861/}, abstract = {Serosorting is commonly employed by MSM to reduce HIV risk. We hypothesize that MSM perceive serosorting to be effective, and that serosorting is predicted by resilience and inversely related to syndemic characteristics. Surveys included 504 substance-using MSM. Logistic regression models examined syndemic and resilience predictors of serosorting, separately by serostatus. For HIV-positive men, positive coping behaviors (P =.015) and coping self-efficacy (P =.014) predicted higher odds, and cognitive escape behaviors (P =.003) lower odds, of serosorting. For HIVnegative men, social engagement (P =.03) and coping self-efficacy (P =.01) predicted higher odds, and severe mental distress (P =.001), victimization history (P =.007) and cognitive escape behaviors (P =.006) lower odds, of serosorting. HIV-negative serosorters reported lower perceptions of risk for infection than non-serosorters (P {\ensuremath{<}}.000). Although high risk HIV-negative men may perceive serosorting to be effective, their high rates of UAI and partner change render this an ineffective risk reduction approach. Relevant public health messages are urgently needed. {\copyright} 2012 The Guilford Press.} } @article{pittir13433, volume = {44}, number = {1}, month = {March}, author = {JC Kush and MB Spring and J Barkand}, title = {Advances in the assessment of cognitive skills using computer-based measurement}, journal = {Behavior Research Methods}, pages = {125 -- 134}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13433/}, abstract = {The impact of technology in the field of intellectual assessment has, for the most part, been limited to computerized administration and scoring. Anderson's (2001) theory of intelligence suggests that performance on traditional IQ measures is acquired via two main routes, thinking and dedicated processing systems known as modules. Empirical data used to support this relationship between the speed of basic processing and intellectual functioning have been evidenced primarily by correlations between measures of general intelligence and measures of inspection time (IT). These IT measures allow individuals to make a forced choice discrimination task without a motor component. Because only the time used to cognitively solve the problem is recorded, these responses typically occur in milliseconds. Many theorists (e. g., Burns \& Nettelbeck, 2002; Deary, 2000; Jensen, 2006) consider IT to be a more "pure" measure of intelligence, because the influences of verbal skills, memory, and socialization are minimized and results are therefore considered to be more culture-fair. Until relatively recently, IT measurement was restricted to complex and expensive specialized laboratory equipment. This article describes the theoretical background and developmental process of a computer-based IT measure that is easily adaptable to accommodate the needs of the researcher. {\copyright} 2011 Psychonomic Society, Inc.} } @article{pittir29822, volume = {6}, number = {S6}, month = {October}, author = {Rebecca L Kusko and John Brothers and Gang Liu and Lingqi Luo and Brenda Juan Guardela and John Tedrow and Yuriy Aleksyev and Ivana V Yang and Mick Correll and Mark Geraci and John Quackenbush and Frank Sciurba and Marc Lenburg and David A Schwartz and Jennifer Beane and Naftali Kaminski and Avrum Spira}, title = {Comprehensive genomic profiling of the lung transcriptome in emphysema and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis using RNA-Seq}, publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC}, journal = {BMC Proceedings}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29822/} } @unpublished{pittir13164, month = {August}, title = {Down-regulation of DNA Methyltransferase 1 by Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma in Hepatic Stellate Cells}, author = {JILONG LI}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Hepatic Stellate Cells (HSCs); DNA Methyltrasferase (DNMT) 1; Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-{\ensuremath{\gamma}}); nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B); gene regulation.}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13164/}, abstract = {DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) 1 is a critical enzyme which is mainly responsible for conversion of unmethylated DNA into hemimethylated DNA. Previous studies have suggested that enzymes related to DNA methylation play a very important role in liver fibrosis. In this study, we identified a significant over-expression of DNMT1 in activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), which suggests a vital function of DNMT1 in HSCs transactivation. Interestingly, ligand activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-{\ensuremath{\gamma}}) in activated HSCs led to efficient down-regulation of DNMT1 expression. Furthermore, the PPAR-{\ensuremath{\gamma}} ligand rosiglitazone (RSG) dramatically down-regulated the expression of DNMT1 and up-regulated the expression of PPAR-{\ensuremath{\gamma}} during the transactivation of primary rat HSCs, suggesting an important role of PPAR-{\ensuremath{\gamma}} in HSC transactivation. Reporter assays showed that ligand activation of PPAR-{\ensuremath{\gamma}} inhibited transcriptional activation of the human DNMT1 gene promoter and such inhibition was rescued by transfection of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B) expression vector pCMV-p50 and pCMV-p65, which indicates that PPAR-{\ensuremath{\gamma}} suppress DNMT1 expression via negatively interfering with NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B binding activity on DNMT1 promoter. Conclusion: These studies suggest that PPAR-{\ensuremath{\gamma}} may play a role in inhibiting HSCs transactivation by suppressing expression of DNMT1.} } @article{pittir29794, volume = {10}, month = {December}, title = {Serum protein profiles predict coronary artery disease in symptomatic patients referred for coronary angiography}, author = {WA LaFramboise and R Dhir and LA Kelly and P Petrosko and JM Krill-Burger and CM Sciulli and MA Lyons-Weiler and UR Chandran and A Lomakin and RV Masterson and OC Marroquin and SR Mulukutla and DM McNamara}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Medicine}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29794/}, abstract = {Background: More than a million diagnostic cardiac catheterizations are performed annually in the US for evaluation of coronary artery anatomy and the presence of atherosclerosis. Nearly half of these patients have no significant coronary lesions or do not require mechanical or surgical revascularization. Consequently, the ability to rule out clinically significant coronary artery disease (CAD) using low cost, low risk tests of serum biomarkers in even a small percentage of patients with normal coronary arteries could be highly beneficial.Methods: Serum from 359 symptomatic subjects referred for catheterization was interrogated for proteins involved in atherogenesis, atherosclerosis, and plaque vulnerability. Coronary angiography classified 150 patients without flow-limiting CAD who did not require percutaneous intervention (PCI) while 209 required coronary revascularization (stents, angioplasty, or coronary artery bypass graft surgery). Continuous variables were compared across the two patient groups for each analyte including calculation of false discovery rate (FDR {$\leq$} 1\%) and Q value (P value for statistical significance adjusted to {$\leq$} 0.01).Results: Significant differences were detected in circulating proteins from patients requiring revascularization including increased apolipoprotein B100 (APO-B100), C-reactive protein (CRP), fibrinogen, vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1), myeloperoxidase (MPO), resistin, osteopontin, interleukin (IL)-1{\ensuremath{\beta}}, IL-6, IL-10 and N-terminal fragment protein precursor brain natriuretic peptide (NT-pBNP) and decreased apolipoprotein A1 (APO-A1). Biomarker classification signatures comprising up to 5 analytes were identified using a tunable scoring function trained against 239 samples and validated with 120 additional samples. A total of 14 overlapping signatures classified patients without significant coronary disease (38\% to 59\% specificity) while maintaining 95\% sensitivity for patients requiring revascularization. Osteopontin (14 times) and resistin (10 times) were most frequently represented among these diagnostic signatures. The most efficacious protein signature in validation studies comprised osteopontin (OPN), resistin, matrix metalloproteinase 7 (MMP7) and interferon {\ensuremath{\gamma}} (IFN{\ensuremath{\gamma}}) as a four-marker panel while the addition of either CRP or adiponectin (ACRP-30) yielded comparable results in five protein signatures.Conclusions: Proteins in the serum of CAD patients predominantly reflected (1) a positive acute phase, inflammatory response and (2) alterations in lipid metabolism, transport, peroxidation and accumulation. There were surprisingly few indicators of growth factor activation or extracellular matrix remodeling in the serum of CAD patients except for elevated OPN. These data suggest that many symptomatic patients without significant CAD could be identified by a targeted multiplex serum protein test without cardiac catheterization thereby eliminating exposure to ionizing radiation and decreasing the economic burden of angiographic testing for these patients. {\copyright} 2012 LaFramboise et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @inproceedings{pittir19072, title = {A Description of the Development and Architecture of a SMS-Based System for Dealing With Depression}, author = {Elizabeth LaRue and Yunzhe Li and Hassan A Karimi and Ann Mitchel}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19072/} } @unpublished{pittir11446, month = {June}, title = {Redefining Beur Cinema: Constituting Subjectivity through Film}, author = {Yahya Laayouni}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Beur, subjectivity, cinema,}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11446/}, abstract = {This dissertation focuses on Beurs? modes of identification in France as depicted in film. The term ?Beur? is not used as an identity based on birth or citizenship but rather as a socio-cultural construct that serves as an analytical tool to dismantle the notion of Frenchness. This study, thus, investigates how cinema reflects on the experience of the Beurs through filmic narrative. The aim is to trace the changing lives of the Beurs as they have been reconstructed in movies since the early eighties. This process is both synchronic and diachronic. Synchronic as it engages in the analysis of films with respect to their historical context and diachronic as it will permit the distilling of the commonalities between these films to lead to the conception of Beur cinema as a film genre. The theoretical premises of this study are founded on existential phenomenology; particularly Paul Ric{\oe}ur?s concept narrative identity and Merleau-Ponty?s notion of corporeality. As decolonized postcolonial subjects, the Beurs? presence in France has become more visible than other groups, and their impact on French society is undeniable. Their corporeality is not conceptually configured but physically manifested as their subjectivities are visually constructed. The corpus of films in this study illustrates how Beur narrative identities are ?decolonizing? the French nation. The first chapter traces back the emergence of the term ?Beur? and discusses its linguistic derivation and metaphoric dimension. A discussion of Beur cinema as a genre constitutes the second chapter. The third chapter engages in an analysis of Beur comedy and the experiences of Beur characters as reflected through the narrative and the film techniques. The fourth and final chapter concentrates on gender in Beur films. It compares the image of the female Beur and that of the Beur gay respectively to that of the Arab nude and the ?jeune arabe? of colonial postcards, and shows how these old colonial stereotypes still drive French perceptions today.} } @article{pittir17856, volume = {66}, number = {6}, month = {June}, author = {E Lac{\^o}te and DP Curran and J Lalev{\'e}e}, title = {NHC-boranes: Air- and water-tolerant coinitiators for type II photopolymerizations}, journal = {Chimia}, pages = {382 -- 385}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17856/}, abstract = {N-Hetereocyclic carbene (NHC) complexes of boranes are stable compounds that can be used as coinitiators for the type II photopolymerization of acrylates. The present account summarizes this new development for polymerization and boron chemistry. In particular, NHC-boranes are air- and water-tolerant, which enhances the practicality of the photopolymerizations. {\copyright} Schweizerische Chemische Gesellschaft.} } @unpublished{pittir12000, month = {June}, title = {Investigation of the Effects of Sport, Exercise and Recreation (SER) on Psychosocial Outcomes in Individuals with Disabilities}, author = {Justin Laferrier}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Psychosocial well-being Sports Exercise Recreation Quality of life Depression Self-esteem Posttraumatic growth}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12000/}, abstract = {Investigation of the Effects of Sport, Exercise and Recreation(SER) on Psychosocial Outcomes in Individuals with Disabilities Justin Zebulon Laferrier, PhD(c), MSPT,OCS,SCS,ATP,CSCS University of Pittsburgh 2012 Sport, exercise and recreation continues to be an important tool for health, fitness and social change as well as for individual rehabilitation. The concept that someone with a disability can be athletic and compete at high levels of sport has helped remove the stigma of being sick that was long been associated with a physical or cognitive impairment. Despite a surprising lack of scientific evidence, sport and recreation has been used to augment and enhance rehabilitation programs for well over 50 years. Clinical experience and anecdotal accounts report that people that participate in sport, exercise and recreation (SER) have fuller and healthier lives, with increased psychosocial well-being and improved quality of life. While there have been countless stories of positive life changing experiences related to involvement in adaptive sport and recreation there is a paucity of scientific evidence to support these claims. As disability rates continue to rise throughout the population funding for rehabilitation programs is steadily decreasing and patient stays are getting shorter and shorter. Due to these issues treatment plans my not be as comprehensive as would be considered optimal and patient outcomes can suffer. Medical providers are continually looking for the most effective way to provide the best possible care and maximize patient outcomes. Developing an evidence base to support the benefits of (SER) will serve multiple purposes. First it would help to educate medical providers and assist them in developing the most effective treatment plans and rehabilitation programs, allowing them to make the best use of available time and resources. Second, it would provide a knowledge base to train outside programs, trainers, and coaches as to what is most effective as the majority of these individuals are generally not medical providers. Third, it would serve to educate third party payers and possibly lead to reimbursement for equipment and services. Most importantly it would provide an avenue for Veterans with disabilities to return to a fuller, healthier life.} } @article{pittir29871, volume = {16}, number = {3}, month = {June}, title = {First do no harm: Surrogate endpoints and the lesson of {\ensuremath{\beta}}-agonists in acute lung injury}, author = {PH Lakshminarayana and JM Kahn}, year = {2012}, journal = {Critical Care}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29871/} } @article{pittir17858, volume = {51}, number = {24}, month = {June}, author = {J Lalev{\'e}e and S Telitel and MA Tehfe and JP Fouassier and DP Curran and E Lac{\^o}te}, title = {N-heterocyclic carbene boranes accelerate type i radical photopolymerizations and overcome oxygen inhibition}, journal = {Angewandte Chemie - International Edition}, pages = {5958 -- 5961}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17858/}, abstract = {To protect and serve: The efficiency of TypeI radical photoinitiators for acrylate polymerization is greatly increased by the presence of NHC-boranes. Conversion of the initially photogenerated radicals, R . (see scheme), into strongly nucleophilic NHC-boryl radicals, through hydrogen-atom transfer, gives a better matched radical for subsequent reaction with monomer, ensuring better initiation. Copyright {\copyright} 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH \& Co. KGaA, Weinheim.} } @article{pittir24605, volume = {379}, number = {9814}, month = {January}, author = {SK Lam and D Burke and D Gubler and J M{\'e}ndez-G{\'a}lvan and L Thomas}, title = {Call for a World Dengue Day}, journal = {The Lancet}, pages = {411 -- 412}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/24605/} } @misc{pittir27763, title = {Itinera}, author = {Alison Langmead and Drew Armstrong}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/27763/}, abstract = {Travel played a pivotal role in the shaping of the intellectual and artistic culture of eighteenth- and nineteenth-century Europe. While the capital cities of Rome, Paris, and London had always served as major attractions for travelers, the increasing specialization and ease of mobility over the course of these centuries began to open remote areas such as Greece, Egypt, and the Near East to scholarly inquiry. Simultaneously, an interest in national landscapes and antiquities made other less highly-trafficked local regions the focus of new forms of tourism. Visualizing, understanding and creating new knowledge about the changing patterns and objectives for these types of travel are the primary goals of Itinera. Designed to allow scholars and students to better comprehend the interconnected phenomena of travel, object collection and site documentation in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, Itinera will be a map-based, interactive, digital resource that overlays and juxtaposes these travelers? movements alongside the objects of their study and their own creative output. This digital environment has been proactively designed to collect and present historical data within a visual context of discovery capable of driving new research and generating new understandings. This system will not only represent the scholarly community?s pre-existing knowledge on the topic of cultural tourism during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, it will also serve to create an innovative academic apparatus richly and transparently structured enough to allow new interpretations to find their ways into and among the assumptions that underlie that structure.} } @article{pittir23178, volume = {22}, number = {8}, month = {April}, author = {MA Lantz and B Gotsmann and P Jaroenapibal and TDB Jacobs and SD O'Connor and K Sridharan and RW Carpick}, title = {Wear-resistant nanoscale silicon carbide tips for scanning probe applications}, journal = {Advanced Functional Materials}, pages = {1639 -- 1645}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/23178/}, abstract = {The search for hard materials to extend the working life of sharp tools is an age-old problem. In recent history, sharp tools must also often withstand high temperatures and harsh chemical environments. Nanotechnology extends this quest to tools such as scanning probe tips that must be sharp on the nanoscale, but still very physically robust. Unfortunately, this combination is inherently contradictory, as mechanically strong, chemically inert materials tend to be difficult to fabricate with nanoscale fidelity. Here a novel process is described, whereby the surfaces of pre-existing, nanoscale Si tips are exposed to carbon ions and then annealed, to form a strong silicon carbide (SiC) layer. The nanoscale sharpness is largely preserved and the tips exhibit a wear resistance that is orders of magnitude greater than that of conventional silicon tips and at least 100-fold higher than that of monolithic, SiO-doped diamond-like-carbon (DLC) tips. The wear is well-described by an atom-by-atom wear model, from which kinetic parameters are extracted that enable the prediction of the long-time scale reliability of the tips. {\copyright} 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH \& Co. KGaA, Weinheim.} } @article{pittir23091, volume = {19}, number = {1}, author = {Oswald Lara Borges and Maria Andrea Castagnola and An{\'i}bal P{\'e}rez-Li{\~n}{\'a}n}, note = {English title: "Constitional Design and Judicial Stability in Latin America, 1900-2009"}, title = {Dise{\~n}o constitucional y estabilidad judicial en Am{\'e}rica Latina, 1900?2009}, publisher = {Universidad de Salamanca}, year = {2012}, journal = {Pol{\'i}tica y Gobierno}, pages = {3 -- 40}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/23091/}, abstract = {This paper analyzes constitutional design as it pertains to the powers, composition, selection procedures, and duration of the mandate of supreme courts and constitutional tribunals in 17 Latin American countries between 1900 and 2009. The analysis is based on an original database that contains the text of all constitutional articles in the central organs of the judiciary. The paper relies on this information to demonstrate to what degree the job stability of magistrates can be explained in terms of the institutional conditions that regulate the judicial system. Our analysis emphasizes that the survival of magistrates is determined by the stability of the constitutional framework, rather than any specific legal content.} } @article{pittir20838, volume = {3}, month = {February}, title = {Muscle-derived stem/progenitor cell dysfunction limits healthspan and lifespan in a murine progeria model}, author = {M Lavasani and AR Robinson and A Lu and M Song and JM Feduska and B Ahani and JS Tilstra and CH Feldman and PD Robbins and LJ Niedernhofer and J Huard}, year = {2012}, journal = {Nature Communications}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20838/}, abstract = {With ageing, there is a loss of adult stem cell function. However, there is no direct evidence that this has a causal role in ageing-related decline. We tested this using muscle-derived stem/progenitor cells (MDSPCs) in a murine progeria model. Here we show that MDSPCs from old and progeroid mice are defective in proliferation and multilineage differentiation. Intraperitoneal administration of MDSPCs, isolated from young wild-type mice, to progeroid mice confer significant lifespan and healthspan extension. The transplanted MDSPCs improve degenerative changes and vascularization in tissues where donor cells are not detected, suggesting that their therapeutic effect may be mediated by secreted factor(s). Indeed, young wild-type-MDSPCs rescue proliferation and differentiation defects of aged MDSPCs when co-cultured. These results establish that adult stem/progenitor cell dysfunction contributes to ageing-related degeneration and suggests a therapeutic potential of post-natal stem cells to extend health. {\copyright} 2012 Macmillan Publishers Limited. All rights reserved.} } @unpublished{pittir11912, month = {June}, title = {Health Programming and Community-based Radio Stations in Sub-saharan Africa: An Example from Zambia}, author = {John Joseph Lawrence}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Health Communication, Global Health, HIV Prevention, Zambia, Sub-Saharan Africa}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11912/}, abstract = {A community-based radio station has potential for significant positive impact on the health of a community by providing important information about health to its listenership. This influence is particularly important in rural areas of low and middle-income countries where such stations serve as the only practical form of communication. This study looks at the impact of the health messaging from Namwianga Radio, a community-based radio station in rural Zambia, on its listenership. The researcher sought to determine (1) if the radio station could serve as an effective means of communication in the region, (2) the extent to which the station has influence over the listenership, (3) specific health topics that listeners could recall from the broadcasts, and (4) what ways could the station better serve the health communication needs of the community. To answer these questions, a mixed methods survey was utilized. Participants (n=103) were interviewed orally about basic radio listening habits and health behaviors as well as channels through which they received health information. Participants were also given an opportunity to give qualitative feedback on the health messaging of the radio station. The findings suggest that Namwianga Radio is an important communication tool in the Southern Province of Zambia. Most of the respondents (68\%) reported listening to the radio for ?more than three hours every day.? Furthermore, over half of the participants reported getting their health information from Namwianga Radio. The station also has serves as an important influence in the community. All participants said that they trusted the radio station, and 85.2\% reported specific health behavior change. Participants also had high recall of health topics. This project has significant public health implications as it shows that community-based radio stations have potential to improve the overall health of a community. It also suggests that such community-based radio stations might be effective tools for communicating health messages in rural areas with hard-to-reach populations in other parts of Sub-Saharan Africa. } } @incollection{pittir16471, month = {July}, title = {PlexC: A policy language for exposure control}, author = {Y Le Gall and AJ Lee and A Kapadia}, year = {2012}, pages = {219 -- 228}, journal = {Proceedings of ACM Symposium on Access Control Models and Technologies, SACMAT}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16471/}, abstract = {With the widespread use of online social networks and mobile devices, it is not uncommon for people to continuously broadcast contextual information such as their current location or activity. These technologies present both new opportunities for social engagement and new risks to privacy, and traditional static 'write once' disclosure policies are not well suited for controlling aggregate exposure risks in the current technological landscape. Therefore, we present PlexC, a new policy language designed for exposure control. We take advantage of several recent user studies to identify a set of language requirements and features, providing the expressive power to accommodate information sharing in dynamic environments. In our evaluation we show that PlexC can concisely express common policy idioms drawn from survey responses, in addition to more complex information sharing scenarios. Copyright 2012 ACM.} } @article{pittir38871, volume = {2012}, title = {Potential Moderators of Physical Activity on Brain Health}, author = {Regina L. Leckie and Andrea M. Weinstein and Jennifer C. Hodzic and Kirk I. Erickson}, publisher = {Hindawi Limited}, year = {2012}, pages = {1--14}, journal = {Journal of Aging Research}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/38871/}, abstract = {Age-related cognitive decline is linked to numerous molecular, structural, and functional changes in the brain. However, physical activity is a promising method of reducing unfavorable age-related changes. Physical activity exerts its effects on the brain through many molecular pathways, some of which are regulated by genetic variants in humans. In this paper, we highlight genes including apolipoprotein E (APOE), brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) along with dietary omega-3 fatty acid, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), as potential moderators of the effect of physical activity on brain health. There are a growing number of studies indicating that physical activity might mitigate the genetic risks for disease and brain dysfunction and that the combination of greater amounts of DHA intake with physical activity might promote better brain function than either treatment alone. Understanding whether genes or other lifestyles moderate the effects of physical activity on neurocognitive health is necessary for delineating the pathways by which brain health can be enhanced and for grasping the individual variation in the effectiveness of physical activity interventions on the brain and cognition. There is a need for future research to continue to assess the factors that moderate the effects of physical activity on neurocognitive function.} } @article{pittir24396, volume = {102}, number = {2}, month = {February}, author = {BY Lee and TM Assi and J Rajgopal and BA Norman and SI Chen and ST Brown and RB Slayton and S Kone and H Kenea and JS Welling and DL Connor and AR Wateska and A Jana and AE Wiringa and WG Van Panhuis and DS Burke}, title = {Impact of introducing the pneumococcal and rotavirus vaccines into the routine immunization program in Niger}, journal = {American Journal of Public Health}, pages = {269 -- 276}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/24396/}, abstract = {Objectives. We investigated whether introducing the rotavirus and pneumococcal vaccines, which are greatly needed in West Africa, would overwhelm existing supply chains (i.e., the series of steps required to get a vaccine from the manufacturers to the target population) in Niger. Methods. As part of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation-funded Vaccine Modeling Initiative, we developed a computational model to determine the impact of introducing these new vaccines to Niger's Expanded Program on Immunization vaccine supply chain. Results. Introducing either the rotavirus vaccine or the 7-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine could overwhelm available storage and transport refrigerator space, creating bottlenecks that would prevent the flow of vaccines down to the clinics. As a result, the availability of all World Health Organization Expanded Program on Immunization vaccines to patients might decrease from an average of 69\% to 28.2\% (range=10\%-51\%). Addition of refrigerator and transport capacity could alleviate this bottleneck. Conclusions. Our results suggest that the effects on the vaccine supply chain should be considered when introducing a new vaccine and that computational models can help assess evolving needs and prevent problems with vaccine delivery.} } @article{pittir19375, volume = {8}, number = {4}, month = {December}, author = {D Lee and P Brusilovsky}, title = {Proactive: Comprehensive access to job information}, journal = {Journal of Information Processing Systems}, pages = {721 -- 738}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19375/}, abstract = {The Internet has become an increasingly important source for finding the right employees, so more and more companies post their job openings on the Web. The large amount and dynamic nature of career recruiting information causes information overload problems for job seekers. To assist Internet users in searching for the right job, a range of research and commercial systems were developed over the past 10 years. Surprisingly, the majority of existing job search systems support just one, rarely two ways of information access. In contrast, our work focused on exploring a value of comprehensive access to job information in a single system (i.e., a system which supports multiple ways). We designed Proactive, a recommendation system providing comprehensive and personalized information access. To assist the varied needs of users, Proactive has four information retrieval methods - a navigable list of jobs, keyword-based search, implicit preference-based recommendations, and explicit preference-based recommendations. This paper introduces the Proactive and reports the results of a study focusing on the experimental evaluation of these methods. The goal of the study was to assess whether all of the methods are necessary for users to find relevant jobs and to what extent different methods can meet different users' information requirements. {\copyright} 2012 KIPS.} } @article{pittir19376, month = {December}, title = {Exploring social approach to recommend talks at research conferences}, author = {DH Lee and P Brusilovsky}, year = {2012}, pages = {157 -- 164}, journal = {CollaborateCom 2012 - Proceedings of the 8th International Conference on Collaborative Computing: Networking, Applications and Worksharing}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19376/}, abstract = {This paper investigates various recommendation algorithms to recommend relevant talks to attendees of research conferences. We explored three sources of information to generate recommendations: users' preference about items (i.e. talks), users' social network and content of items. In order to find out what is the best recommendation approach, we explored a diverse set of algorithms from non-personalized community vote-based recommendations and collaborative filtering recommend-ations to hybrid recommendations such as social network-based recommendation boosted by content information of items. We found that social network-based recommendations fused with content information and non-personalized community vote-based recommendations performed the best. Moreover, for cold-start users who have insufficient number of items to express their preferences, the recommendations based on their social connections generated significantly better predictions than other approaches. {\copyright} 2012 ICST.} } @unpublished{pittir13735, month = {September}, title = {HIGHER EDUCATION EXPANSION AND ECONOMIC GROWTH IN JAPAN AND SOUTH KOREA}, author = {Eun Kyung Lee}, year = {2012}, keywords = {higher education, economic growth, Japan, South Korea, major composition}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13735/}, abstract = {The concept of linking higher education and economic growth was diffused throughout the world in the 20th century. Responding to the needs of industries during that period, higher education expanded approximately 200 times beyond the enrollment level in 1900 (Schofer \& Meyer, 2005). Empirical studies dealing with the individual benefit of higher education have flourished but little was known about the effect of higher education composition on economic growth. This research investigates contributions of higher education composition{--}institutional sector and major{--}to the growth of national wealth. This study chose Japan and South Korean cases that exemplify rapid growth in the economies through higher education development. The study collected the panel data about higher education and the economies from 1959 to 2009 for Japan and from 1965 to 2011 for South Korea and applied an ARIMA model regression for time series analysis. The effect of public and private sectors on overall economic growth and of four major groups on GDP per capita and GDP sectors{--}agriculture, industry, service et al.{--}were examined. In result, Japanese and South Korean higher education showed a positive effect on their economic growth, and a bidirectional relationship of higher education development and economic growth was examined in both countries? industrialization periods. The public sector in Japanese higher education contributed to their economic growth. Among four major groups, the Japanese science major group had a positive effect on the increase of their GDP value added by industry and service et al., but the South Korean science major group showed the least effect on their economic growth among four major groups. In South Korea, the social science major group contributed to the economic growth through affecting on the increase of their industrial and service GDP. For deeper understanding about the relationship between higher education composition and economic growth, this study suggests an analysis on the effect of institutional levels as well as major composition in higher education on economic growth.} } @unpublished{pittir12724, month = {September}, title = {ADENO-ASSOCIATED VIRUS (AAV)-MEDIATED JOINT RESTORATION APPROACHES: CHARACTERIZATION AND APPLICATION}, author = {Hannah Lee}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Adeno-associated virus, osteoarthritis, cartilage tissue engineering}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12724/}, abstract = {Osteoarthritis is the leading cause of morbidity world-wide. Articular cartilage has limited regenerative potential and effective disease-modifying treatments for osteoarthritis are lacking. Hence, tissue engineering strategies to enhance cartilage repair potential are widely investigated. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) is a promising gene vector for articular cartilage and has already been used in clinical trials. We hypothesized that gene delivery of bioactive molecules to articular joints using AAV is efficacious to promote joint restoration. In the first two parts of the study, we showed persistent, localized, and controllable transgene expression within intact and injured joints following a single intra-articular injection of AAV. Most of the transduction occurred in the intra-articular soft tissues for intact joints and when the AAV was injected prior to joint injury, whereas some cartilage transduction but limited soft tissue transduction was seen when the AAV was injected following joint injury. Doxycycline was used as an induction agent of the AAV-mediated transgene expression. In the third part of the study, doxycycline was shown to have matrix-metalloproteinase-13 suppressing function during mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) chondrogenesis as well as in vivo cartilage repair. This supports potential use of doxycycline either alone or in gene therapy applications to improve cartilage repair. In the fourth part of the study, we optimized native biomaterial fibrin glue (FG) for its function as an AAV-releasing scaffold for tissue engineering applications. Bioactive AAV from diluted FG showed improved release, transduction efficiency, and chondrogenic effect on MSC. Lastly, AAVs encoding for anabolic and/or anti-inflammatory factors were explored to enhance MSC chondrogenesis in an inflammatory milieu. The MSCs transduced with AAV-interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IRAP), but not AAV-transforming growth factor (TGF)-{\ensuremath{\beta}}1, resulted in improved chondrogenic potential. In conclusion, various aspects of AAV-mediated joint restoration approaches were investigated, from characterization of AAV delivery by direct injection or with the use of FG, to therapeutic applications with doxycycline, AAV-IRAP, and AAV-TGF-{\ensuremath{\beta}}1. These results support continued investigations of therapeutic potential of AAV for safe, localized, and controlled delivery of bioactive substances to promote joint restoration, which may delay/prevent the onset of debilitating osteoarthritis.} } @unpublished{pittir10937, month = {June}, title = {Biosensing of Cardiac Biomarkers Using Single Polyaniline Nanowires}, author = {Innam Lee}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Nanowire,Polyaniline,Biosensor, Cardiac Biomarkers, Microfluidic channel, and Field Effect Transistor}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10937/}, abstract = {In this thesis, we explore innovative methods of fabricating single polymer nanowires and applying the fabricated single polymer nanowires for biosensors. The fabrication of single polymer nanowire was carried out via electrochemical deposition growth method, which deposits ionized molecules in a pre-patterned nanochannel between two Au electrodes and forms a nanowire. For biosensing application, we employ polyaniline (PANI) in this research since it has advantages of biocompatibility, easy synthesis, and broad range of electrical conductivity. The single PANI nanowires-based biosensor show high sensitivity and good sensing reliability due to the high surface to volume ratio and single nanowires. Using the fabricated single PANI nanowires, the biosensors were developed to detect cardiac biomarkers such as myoglobin (Myo), cardiac troponin I (cTnI), creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB), and B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP). The single PANI nanowires are functionalized by surface immobilization method that was developed in our laboratory using 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide (EDC) and N-Hydroxysuccinimde (NHS) to attach monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) of biomarkers without pre-chemical or physical treatments. Lastly, microfluidic devices including channels and solution infusion/withdrawal system were integrated on the biosensor in order to develop an all-in-one biosensor. Our single PANI nanowire-based biosensor is unique in terms of the functionalization on specific area; the mAbs are immobilized on the only surface of PANI nanowires because PANI has superior biocompatibility to mAbs unlike SiO2 layer or Au electrodes. This advantage reduces functionalization steps comparing to inorganic nanowire biosensors and frees the interfered signals from non-nanowire areas. In addition, the microfluidic channel helps achieving stable electrical signals, high sensitivity, safe sample handling, and minimal damage of nanowire. The integrated single PANI nanowire biosensors with microfluidic devices detect very low concentrations of Myo (100 pg/mL), cTnI (250 fg/mL), CK-MB (150 fg/mL), and BNP (50 fg/mL) with good specificity. The remarkable specificity value in cardiac biomarker sensing is over 106 fold, that the specificity value is defined as the ratio of [the highest concentration of non-specific protein showing ignorable or non-response signal] to [the lowest concentration of specific protein showing significant signal change], in the test of bovine serum albumin (BSA) or other cardiac markers. The single PANI nanowire biosensors have shown linear sensing profiles along different concentration from hundreds fg/mL to tens ng/mL depending on the mAbs of the specific biomarkers, and exhibit fast response in a few minutes satisfying reference values of Myo, cTnI, CK-MB, and BNP to diagnose heart failure and determine the patient?s stage of disease.} } @unpublished{pittir11910, month = {June}, title = {Reading and Writing as Transformative Action in Maria Irene Fornes' and Adrienne Kennedy's Plays}, author = {Insoo Lee}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Maria Irene Fornes, Adrienne Kennedy, Language, Sexuality, Women and Writing}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11910/}, abstract = {This dissertation examines Maria Irene Fornes? and Adrienne Kennedy?s plays, focusing on the female characters? act of reading and writing on stage. Usually, reading and writing on stage are considered to be passive and static, but in the two playwrights? works, they are used as an effective plot device that moves the drama forward and as willful efforts by the female characters to develop their sense of identities. Furthermore, in contrast to the usual perception of reading and writing as intellectual processes, Fornes and Kennedy depict these acts as intensely physical and sensual. Julia Kristeva?s and H{\'e}l{\`e}ne Cixous? poststructuralist psychoanalytic theories of language and female sexuality, and Gloria Anzald{\'u}a?s theory of writing the body are the major theoretical framework within which I explore the two playwrights? works. Since I treat the plays as meta-writing (writing about writing) I also use narrative theory to analyze the narrative structures of the plays, which the two dramatists use to reveal the nature of writing. I conclude that Fornes? plays demonstrate that knowledge and the possibility to create oneself can only result from one?s earnest effort to merge language in one?s embodied experiences and vice versa. I also conclude that in Kennedy?s plays writing opens up a space in which the writer assumes many different identities simultaneously. In this space of writing, the writer uses her body as a medium through which she experiences the others? identities.} } @incollection{pittir23468, month = {May}, title = {Photocatalytic Efficacy of 1-Dimensional Nanocomposite Electrode}, author = {JK Lee and B Ding and J Noh and KS Hong}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/23468/}, abstract = {The photocatalytic splitting of water into H2 and O2 by oxide nanoparticles has received much attention. However, the full potential of photo-catalysts for efficient hydrogen generation out of water has not been fully realized yet due to unresolved limitations including the low electrical conductivity and ineffective carrier extraction. Here, we report composite oxide materials consisting of 1-dimensional (1-D) transparent conducting oxide (TCO) core and Ti02 shell. Highly conductive ITO nanowires were grown on a flexible SUS mesh as a core component. The photoelectrodes consisting of these 1-D nanocomposites have increased carrier mobility due to the TCO core, while the T1O2 shell provides the photocatalytic functionalities. In addition, the built-in-potential at the interface between TCO core and the T1O2 shell improves the collection of charge carriers from T1O2 to TCO. These factors altogether contribute to increasing the photocurrent of the device under light. {\copyright} 2012 The Minerals, Metals, \& Materials Society. All rights reserved.} } @article{pittir23383, volume = {112}, number = {10}, month = {November}, title = {Ferroelectric properties of Pb(Zr,Ti)O{\ensuremath{<}}inf{\ensuremath{>}}3{\ensuremath{<}}/inf{\ensuremath{>}} films under ion-beam induced strain}, author = {JK Lee and M Nastasi}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of Applied Physics}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/23383/}, abstract = {The influence of an ion-beam induced biaxial stress on the ferroelectric and dielectric properties of Pb(Zr,Ti)O3 (PZT) films is investigated using the ion beam process as a novel approach to control external stress. Tensile stress is observed to decrease the polarization, permittivity, and ferroelectric fatigue resistance of the PZT films whose structure is monoclinic. However, a compressive stress increases all of them in monoclinic PZT films. The dependence of the permittivity on stress is found not to follow the phenomenological theory relating external forces to intrinsic properties of ferroelectric materials. Changes in the ferroelectric and dielectric properties indicate that the application of a biaxial stress modulates both extrinsic and intrinsic properties of PZT films. Different degrees of dielectric non-linearity suggests the density and mobility of non-180o domain walls, and the domain switching can be controlled by an applied biaxial stress and thereby influence the ferroelectric and dielectric properties. {\copyright} 2012 American Institute of Physics.} } @article{pittir23384, volume = {74}, month = {July}, title = {Mesoporous TiO {\ensuremath{<}}inf{\ensuremath{>}}2{\ensuremath{<}}/inf{\ensuremath{>}} nanowires as bi-functional materials for dye-sensitized solar cells}, author = {S Lee and GS Han and JH Lee and JK Lee and HS Jung}, year = {2012}, pages = {83 -- 86}, journal = {Electrochimica Acta}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/23384/}, abstract = {A bimodal structured TiO 2 nanowire (NW) was synthesized via metal glycolate-mediated method. Each large NW was comprised of a few nanometers-sized anatase particles, which led to a high specific surface area, 50.4 m 2 g -1. When the bimodal TiO 2 NWs were coated onto a spherical nanoparticle-based active layer of the photoelectrode for a dye-sensitized solar cell, the reflectance of the photoelectrode increased by 4-times, compared to a bare active layer. The TiO 2 NWs increased quantum efficiency of the dye-sensitized solar cell, from 400 to 800 nm wavelengths, which was attributed to both the light-scattering and charge generating effects due to the capability of reflecting incident light and adsorbing large amount of dye molecules. {\copyright} 2012 Elsevier Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir13550, month = {August}, title = {Family Caregivers' Labor Force Participation and Financial Well-Being: A Longitudinal Study}, author = {Yeonjung Lee}, year = {2012}, keywords = {family caregiving: labor force participation; financial well-being; cross-lagged panel model; growth curve modeling}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13550/}, abstract = {As the older population continues to grow, the number of people in need of long-term care is likely to increase and more families than ever before are becoming involved in providing care to family members. Studies on family caregivers? labor force participation and financial well-being have implications for designing social policy and programs to support family caregivers. However, first, the existing research on the relationship between caregiving and labor force participation is suggestive but not conclusive due to equivocal research results based on cross-sectional design. Second, much of the previous literature on caregiving has focused on the effects of caregiving on the caregivers? psychological and physical well-being, and there is limited literature pertaining to caregivers? financial well-being. Third, a comparative study of the similarities and differences across cultures will add knowledge regarding how cultural background and institutional factors interact with care for the elderly. This dissertation aimed to fill these gaps by examining family caregivers? labor force participation and financial well-being through a longitudinal research design. In addition, this study attempted to conduct a cross-national comparative study between the United States and Korea by exploring the two nationally representative data. Results suggest that while caregiving had a negative impact on women?s labor force participation, employment status was not related to assume the role of physical caregiver. In addition, men?s labor force participation had a negative impact on taking on the physical care, whereas the role of physical caregiver was not related to their employment status. However, the impact of caregiving on change in financial well-being and the mediation effect of employment on financial well-being were not identified. Findings from this study provide a greater understanding of gender differences in the relationship between caregiving and labor force participation.} } @article{pittir29866, volume = {7}, number = {1}, month = {July}, title = {Prescription dose and fractionation predict improved survival after stereotactic radiotherapy for brainstem metastases}, author = {JE Leeman and DA Clump and RE Wegner and DE Heron and SA Burton and AH Mintz}, year = {2012}, journal = {Radiation Oncology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29866/}, abstract = {Background: Brainstem metastases represent an uncommon clinical presentation that is associated with a poor prognosis. Treatment options are limited given the unacceptable risks associated with surgical resection in this location. However, without local control, symptoms including progressive cranial nerve dysfunction are frequently observed. The objective of this study was to determine the outcomes associated with linear accelerator-based stereotactic radiotherapy or radiosurgery (SRT/SRS) of brainstem metastases.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 38 tumors in 36 patients treated with SRT/SRS between February 2003 and December 2011. Treatment was delivered with the Cyberknife? or Trilogy? radiosurgical systems. The median age of patients was 62 (range: 28-89). Primary pathologies included 14 lung, 7 breast, 4 colon and 11 others. Sixteen patients (44\%) had received whole brain radiation therapy (WBRT) prior to SRT/SRS; ten had received prior SRT/SRS at a different site (28\%). The median tumor volume was 0.94 cm3 (range: 0.01-4.2) with a median prescription dose of 17 Gy (range: 12-24) delivered in 1-5 fractions.Results: Median follow-up for the cohort was 3.2 months (range: 0.4-20.6). Nineteen patients (52\%) had an MRI follow-up available for review. Of these, one patient experienced local failure corresponding to an actuarial 6-month local control of 93\%. Fifteen of the patients with available follow-up imaging (79\%) experienced intracranial failure outside of the treatment volume. The median time to distant intracranial failure was 2.1 months. Six of the 15 patients with distant intracranial failure (40\%) had received previous WBRT. The actuarial overall survival rates at 6- and 12-months were 27\% and 8\%, respectively. Predictors of survival included Graded Prognostic Assessment (GPA) score, greater number of treatment fractions, and higher prescription dose. Three patients experienced acute treatment-related toxicity consisting of nausea (n = 1) and headaches (n = 2) that resolved with a short-course of dexamethasone.Conclusion: SRT/SRS for brainstem metastases is safe and achieves a high rate of local control. We found higher GPA as well as greater number of treatment fractions and higher prescription dose to be correlated with improved overall survival. Despite this approach, prognosis remains poor and distant intracranial control remains an issue, even in patients previously treated with WBRT. {\copyright} 2012 Leeman et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir10507, month = {January}, title = {Maternal Responses to Communication of Infants at Low and Heightened Risk for Autism}, author = {Nina B Leezenbaum}, year = {2012}, keywords = {High risk studies, Infant siblings, Communication development, Parent child interaction, Autistic disorder}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10507/}, abstract = {The current study investigated maternal responses to infant communication among mothers of infants at heightened risk (HR) for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and mothers of infants at low risk (LR) for the disorder at 13 and 18 months. Infants and mothers were observed during naturalistic in-home interactions and semi-structured play. By 18 months, HR infants demonstrated delays in developmentally advanced communicative behaviors (pointing, showing, words) as compared to LR infants. Regarding maternal responses, overall mothers of HR infants responded as frequently as mothers of LR infants. However, our data indicated that from 13 to 18 months, mothers of LR infants increased their responsiveness to non-word vocalizations while mothers of HR infants did not. In addition, mothers of both HR and LR infants were more likely to label the referent of developmentally advanced gestures (pointing/showing) than earlier emerging gestures (giving/requesting). These findings suggest that mothers may provide richer responses to more developmentally advanced communication. Thus, delays in infant gesture and speech could alter the input infants receive leading to potential cascading effects on language development. } } @unpublished{pittir10618, month = {January}, title = {Designing Methodology for the Incorporation of Beta-Amino Acids into Protein Tertiary Structures}, author = {George Lengyel}, year = {2012}, keywords = {amino acid, peptide, beta, residue, tertiary structure, secondary structure, beta sheet}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10618/}, abstract = {The goal of this project is to explore methodologies applicable to introducing {\ensuremath{\beta}}-amino acid residues into natural protein sequences with well-defined tertiary structures while maintaining the folded structure of these natural sequences. Hybrid {\ensuremath{\alpha}}/{\ensuremath{\beta}}-peptides synthesized with {\ensuremath{\beta}}-amino acids have additional rotational freedom of their backbone and also have increased resistance to proteolysis relative to natural {\ensuremath{\alpha}}-peptides. 16 unnatural {\ensuremath{\beta}}-amino acids with varied stereochemistry and torsional restraints were synthesized using a variety of published literature methods. A peptide model system known to fold into a {\ensuremath{\beta}}-hairpin secondary structure in aqueous solution was chosen for substitution with the unnatural residues at two positions. Using Fmoc solid-phase peptide synthesis, 16 hybrid {\ensuremath{\alpha}}/{\ensuremath{\beta}}-peptides as well as 16 unfolded control peptides were synthesized and studied by 2D NMR. Using the NMR data obtained from this study, the mutant peptides were analyzed for indications of folded population. Three peptides showed a high degree of folded population: those including a {\ensuremath{\beta}}3 -amino acid and two including the enantiomers of a trans- disubstituted-{\ensuremath{\beta}}2,3 -amino acid. NOE-derived distance restraints were established and high-resolution 3D structures of these peptides were calculated. Using these structures, it was found that the peptide substituted with (2R, 3S)-3-amino-2,4-dimethylpentanoic acid most closely emulated the hairpin structure of the model system. Currently, work is ongoing to determine the effect of side-chain functionalization and substitution pattern on the folding of larger protein systems.} } @article{pittir14358, volume = {91}, number = {5}, month = {May}, author = {A Letra and B Bjork and ME Cooper and H Szabo-Rogers and FWB Deleyiannis and LL Field and AE Czeizel and L Ma and GP Garlet and FA Poletta and JC Mereb and JS Lopez-Camelo and EE Castilla and IM Orioli and S Wendell and SH Blanton and K Liu and JT Hecht and ML Marazita and AR Vieira and RM Silva}, title = {Association of AXIN2 with non-syndromic oral clefts in multiple populations}, journal = {Journal of Dental Research}, pages = {473 -- 478}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14358/}, abstract = {We have previously shown the association of AXIN2 with oral clefts in a US population. Here, we expanded our study to explore the association of 11 AXIN2 markers in 682 cleft families from multiple populations. Alleles for each AXIN2 marker were tested for transmission distortion with clefts by means of the Family-based Association Test. We observed an association with SNP rs7224837 and all clefts in the combined populations (p = 0.001), and with SNP rs3923086 and cleft lip and palate in Asian populations (p = 0.004). We confirmed our association findings in an additional 528 cleft families from the United States (p {\ensuremath{<}} 0.009). We tested for gene-gene interaction between AXIN2 and additional cleft susceptibility loci. We assessed and detected Axin2 mRNA and protein expression during murine palatogenesis. In addition, we also observed co-localization of Axin2 with Irf6 proteins, particularly in the epithelium. Our results continue to support a role for AXIN2 in the etiology of human clefting. Additional studies should be performed to improve our understanding of the biological mechanisms linking AXIN2 to oral clefts. {\copyright} 2012 International \& American Associations for Dental Research.} } @article{pittir15906, volume = {7}, number = {9}, month = {September}, title = {Interaction between IRF6 and TGFA Genes Contribute to the Risk of Nonsyndromic Cleft Lip/Palate}, author = {A Letra and W Fakhouri and RF Fonseca and R Menezes and I Kempa and JL Prasad and TG McHenry and AC Lidral and L Moreno and JC Murray and S Daack-Hirsch and ML Marazita and EE Castilla and B Lace and IM Orioli and JM Granjeiro and BC Schutte and AR Vieira}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15906/}, abstract = {Previous evidence from tooth agenesis studies suggested IRF6 and TGFA interact. Since tooth agenesis is commonly found in individuals with cleft lip/palate (CL/P), we used four large cohorts to evaluate if IRF6 and TGFA interaction contributes to CL/P. Markers within and flanking IRF6 and TGFA genes were tested using Taqman or SYBR green chemistries for case-control analyses in 1,000 Brazilian individuals. We looked for evidence of gene-gene interaction between IRF6 and TGFA by testing if markers associated with CL/P were overtransmitted together in the case-control Brazilian dataset and in the additional family datasets. Genotypes for an additional 142 case-parent trios from South America drawn from the Latin American Collaborative Study of Congenital Malformations (ECLAMC), 154 cases from Latvia, and 8,717 individuals from several cohorts were available for replication of tests for interaction. Tgfa and Irf6 expression at critical stages during palatogenesis was analyzed in wild type and Irf6 knockout mice. Markers in and near IRF6 and TGFA were associated with CL/P in the Brazilian cohort (p{\ensuremath{<}}10-6). IRF6 was also associated with cleft palate (CP) with impaction of permanent teeth (p{\ensuremath{<}}10-6). Statistical evidence of interaction between IRF6 and TGFA was found in all data sets (p = 0.013 for Brazilians; p = 0.046 for ECLAMC; p = 10-6 for Latvians, and p = 0.003 for the 8,717 individuals). Tgfa was not expressed in the palatal tissues of Irf6 knockout mice. IRF6 and TGFA contribute to subsets of CL/P with specific dental anomalies. Moreover, this potential IRF6-TGFA interaction may account for as much as 1\% to 10\% of CL/P cases. The Irf6-knockout model further supports the evidence of IRF6-TGFA interaction found in humans. {\copyright} 2012 Letra et al.} } @article{pittir14437, volume = {94}, number = {7}, month = {July}, author = {A Letra and RM Silva and LG Motta and SH Blanton and JT Hecht and JM Granjeirol and AR Vieira}, title = {Association of MMP3 and TIMP2 promoter polymorphisms with nonsyndromic oral clefts}, journal = {Birth Defects Research Part A - Clinical and Molecular Teratology}, pages = {540 -- 548}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14437/}, abstract = {BACKGROUND Oral clefts are common congenital anomalies and result from defects during embryogenesis. The complex etiology is evident by the number of genes and signaling pathways involved in craniofacial development. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their inhibitors (TIMPs) are responsible for tissue remodeling during craniofacial development. METHODS In this study, we investigated the association of polymorphisms in 14 biologically relevant MMP and TIMP genes in 494 individuals with oral clefts and 413 control individuals from Brazil. Genotypes were generated using Taqman chemistry. Analyses were performed using PLINK software. RESULTS Polymorphisms in MMP3 (rs522616) and TIMP2 (rs8179096) showed significant association with all cleft types (all clefts, cleft lip/palate, and cleft palate; p {$\leq$} 0.002). An additional family-based dataset (881 case-parent trios) from the United States was used for confirmation of the association findings (p {\ensuremath{<}} 0.05). Analysis of gene-gene interaction suggests that MMP3 and TIMP2 may interactively contribute to a cleft phenotype. CONCLUSIONS This study provides new evidence that variation in MMP3 may contribute to nonsyndromic oral clefts and further supports the involvement of TIMP2 as a cleft susceptibility gene. Although additional studies are still necessary to unveil the exact mechanism by which MMP3 and TIMP2 would contribute to a cleft phenotype, allelic polymorphisms in these genes and their interactions may partly explain the variance of individual susceptibility to oral clefts. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 2012. {\copyright} 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.} } @article{pittir14434, volume = {39}, number = {8}, month = {August}, author = {A Letra and RM Silva and RJ Rylands and EM Silveira and AP De Souza and SK Wendell and GP Garlet and AR Vieira}, title = {MMP3 and TIMP1 variants contribute to chronic periodontitis and may be implicated in disease progression}, journal = {Journal of Clinical Periodontology}, pages = {707 -- 716}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14434/}, abstract = {Aim Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play a key role in the tissue destruction characteristic of chronic periodontitis. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association of MMP and TIMP polymorphisms with chronic periodontitis in two populations. Material and Methods A total of 34 polymorphisms spanning 12 MMP and 2 TIMP genes were genotyped in 401 individuals from Brazil (99 cases with chronic periodontitis and 302 controls), and 274 individuals from the US (70 cases and 204 controls). Individuals were considered cases if presenting at least three teeth exhibiting sites of clinical attachment loss ? 5 mm in two different quadrants. Controls were characterized by absence of clinical attachment loss and no sites with probing depth {\ensuremath{>}}3 mm. MMP3 and TIMP1 mRNA expression was evaluated in healthy and diseased periodontal tissues. Results TIMP1 showed association with chronic periodontitis in the Brazilian population (for rs5906435, p = 0.0004), whereas MMP3 showed association in the US population (for rs679620, p = 0.0003; and rs650108, p = 0.002) and in the Brazilian population (for rs639752, p = 0.005). MMP3 and TIMP1 mRNA expression was significantly higher in diseased tissues when compared to control tissues. Conclusions Our results further support a role for variations in MMP3 in chronic periodontitis and report a novel association with TIMP1. These genes may be considered additional candidate genes for chronic periodontitis. {\copyright} 2012 John Wiley \& Sons A/S.} } @article{pittir24211, volume = {308}, number = {18}, month = {November}, author = {GP Levin and C Robinson-Cohen and IH De Boer and DK Houston and K Lohman and Y Liu and SB Kritchevsky and JA Cauley and T Tanaka and L Ferrucci and S Bandinelli and KV Patel and E Hagstr{\"o}m and K Micha{\"e}lsson and H Melhus and T Wang and M Wolf and BM Psaty and D Siscovick and B Kestenbaum}, title = {Genetic variants and associations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations with major clinical outcomes}, journal = {JAMA - Journal of the American Medical Association}, pages = {1898 -- 1905}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/24211/}, abstract = {Context: Lower serum 25-hydroxyvitaminDconcentrations are associatedwith greater risks of many chronic diseases across large, prospective community-based studies. Substrate 25-hydroxyvitamin D must be converted to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D for full biological activity, and complex metabolic pathways suggest that interindividual variability in vitamin D metabolism may alter the clinical consequences of measured serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D. Objective: To investigate whether common variation within genes encoding the vitamin D-binding protein, megalin, cubilin, CYP27B1, CYP24A1, and the vitamin D receptor (VDR) modify associations of low 25-hydroxyvitamin D with major clinical outcomes. Design, Setting, and Participants: Examination of 141 single-nucleotide polymorphisms in a discovery cohort of 1514 white participants (who were recruited from 4 US regions) from the community-based Cardiovascular Health Study. Participants had serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D measurements in 1992-1993 and were followed up for a median of 11 years (through 2006). Replication meta-analyses were conducted across the independent, community-based US Health, Aging, and Body Composition (n=922; follow-up: 1998-1999 through 2005), Italian Invecchiare in Chianti (n=835; follow-up: 1998-2000 through 2006), and Swedish Uppsala Longitudinal Study of Adult Men (n=970; follow-up: 1991-1995 through 2008) cohort studies. Main OutcomeMeasure: Composite outcome of incident hip facture, myocardial infarction, cancer, and mortality over long-term follow-up. Results: Interactions between 5 single-nucleotide polymorphisms and low 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration were identified in the discovery phase and 1 involving a variant in the VDR gene replicated in independent meta-analysis. Among Cardiovascular Health Study participants, low 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration was associated with hazard ratios for risk of the composite outcome of 1.40 (95\% CI, 1.12-1.74) for those who had 1 minor allele at rs7968585 and 1.82 (95\% CI, 1.31-2.54) for those with 2 minor alleles at rs7968585. In contrast, there was no evidence of an association (estimated hazard ratio, 0.93 [95\% CI, 0.70-1.24]) among participants who had 0 minor alleles at this single-nucleotide polymorphism. Conclusion: Known associations of low 25-hydroxyvitamin D with major health outcomes may vary according to common genetic differences in the vitamin D receptor. {\copyright}2012 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.} } @unpublished{pittir13531, month = {September}, title = {LOLs, lulz, and ROFL: the culture, fun, and serious business of Internet memes}, author = {Noah D Levinson}, year = {2012}, keywords = {New Media Old Media Film Studies Cultural Theory Internet Anthropology Reddit 4chan Internet Meme}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13531/}, abstract = {This thesis takes an analytical look into the workings of Internet Memes and the culture that surrounds and nourishes them. Through a selection of Internet Meme case studies, a list of cultural qualities are compiled and then used to identify the attitudes of Internet Meme Culture. Then by comparing the relationship between Internet Memes and advertising, film, and television, a contrast between Old and New Media is established. Alongside using political Memes to find connections between Internet Memes and general expression and communication, the final hope is to understand Internet Meme Culture and where it might take Mass and Popular Culture as the digital millennial becomes the new digital citizens.} } @inproceedings{pittir12397, month = {December}, title = {Asynchronous displays for multi-UV search tasks}, author = {M Lewis and H Wang and A Kolling and K Sycara and N Brooks and P Scerri}, year = {2012}, journal = {AIAA Infotech at Aerospace Conference and Exhibit 2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12397/}, abstract = {Synchronous video has long been the preferred mode for controlling remote robots with other modes such as asynchronous control only used when unavoidable as in the case of interplanetary robotics. We identify two basic problems for controlling multiple robots using synchronous displays: operator overload and information fusion. Synchronous displays from multiple robots can easily overwhelm an operator who must search video for targets. If targets are plentiful, the operator will likely miss targets that enter and leave unattended views while dealing with others that were noticed. The related fusion problem arises because robots' multiple fields of view may overlap forcing the operator to reconcile different views from different perspectives and form an awareness of the environment by "piecing them together". We have conducted a series of experiments investigating the suitability of asynchronous displays for multi-UV search. Our first experiments involved static panoramas in which operators selected locations at which robots halted and panned their camera to capture a record of what could be seen from that location. A subsequent experiment investigated the hypothesis that the relative performance of the panoramic display would improve as the number of robots was increased causing greater overload and fusion problems. In a subsequent Image Queue system we used automated path planning and also automated the selection of imagery for presentation by choosing a greedy selection of non-overlapping views. A fourth set of experiments used the SUAVE display, an asynchronous variant of the picture-in-picture technique for video from multiple UAVs. The panoramic displays which addressed only the overload problem led to performance similar to synchronous video while the Image Queue and SUAVE displays which addressed fusion as well led to improved performance on a number of measures. In this paper we will review our experiences in designing and testing asynchronous displays and discuss challenges to their use including tracking dynamic targets. {\copyright} 2012 by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Inc.} } @article{pittir14174, volume = {7}, number = {4}, month = {April}, title = {Farnesoid x receptor induces murine scavenger receptor class B type I via intron binding}, author = {G Li and AM Thomas and JA Williams and B Kong and J Liu and Y Inaba and W Xie and GL Guo}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14174/}, abstract = {Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) is a nuclear receptor and a key regulator of liver cholesterol and triglyceride homeostasis. Scavenger receptor class B type I (SR-BI) is critical for reverse cholesterol transport (RCT) by transporting high-density lipoprotein (HDL) into liver. FXR induces SR-BI, however, the underlying molecular mechanism of this induction is not known. The current study confirmed induction of SR-BI mRNA by activated FXR in mouse livers, a human hepatoma cell line, and primary human hepatocytes. Genome-wide FXR binding analysis in mouse livers identified 4 putative FXR response elements in the form of inverse repeat separated by one nucleotide (IR1) at the first intron and 1 IR1 at the downstream of the mouse Sr-bi gene. ChIP-qPCR analysis revealed FXR binding to only the intronic IR1s, but not the downstream one. Luciferase assays and site-directed mutagenesis further showed that 3 out of 4 IR1s were able to activate gene transcription. A 16-week high-fat diet (HFD) feeding in mice increased hepatic Sr-bi gene expression in a FXR-dependent manner. In addition, FXR bound to the 3 bona fide IR1s in vivo, which was increased following HFD feeding. Serum total and HDL cholesterol levels were increased in FXR knockout mice fed the HFD, compared to wild-type mice. In conclusion, the Sr-bi/SR-BI gene is confirmed as a FXR target gene in both mice and humans, and at least in mice, induction of Sr-bi by FXR is via binding to intronic IR1s. This study suggests that FXR may serve as a promising molecular target for increasing reverse cholesterol transport. {\copyright} 2012 Li et al.} } @unpublished{pittir13545, month = {September}, title = {THE DEPENDENCE OF DEGRADATION AND RELEASE BEHAVIOR OF POLYESTERS ON MONOMER SEQUENCE}, author = {Jian Li}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Sequenced copolymer, PLGA, Condensation polymerization, Degradation behavior, Drug release}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13545/}, abstract = {Although Nature has taught us that sequence control can be used to control macromolecular properties, there is little systematic polymer research connecting sequence with properties. Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) copolymers are universally recognized as biodegradable polymers that can be used for in vivo bioengineering applications. Sequence control of PLGAs may allow the tuning of properties for specific drug delivery or cell scaffolding applications. A series of sequenced PLGAs were prepared and their hydrolysis rates, thermal properties and ability to sequester and deliver rhodamine B (RhB) were investigated. By monitoring both polymer molecular weight and lactic acid release, it was determined that sequenced copolymers hydrolyze more gradually than random copolymers. Data from thermal studies and from the size exclusion chromatography of these samples establish also that they maintain their initial morphology throughout and do not become heterogeneous as do the random controls. Differences in hydrolysis profile were also found for specific sequences. RhB encapsulation and release was also found to depend on sequence{--}the alternating copolymer had a lower loading capacity but a more gradual release rate than the random copolymer with the same lactic/glycolic unit composition.} } @unpublished{pittir11767, month = {June}, title = {IMPROVING STUDENTS? UNDERSTANDING OF ELECTRICITY AND MAGNETISM}, author = {Jing Li}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Electricity and magnetism, concepts, light bulbs, circuit elements, coulomb's law, Gauss's law, magnetism conceptual survey}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11767/}, abstract = {Electricity and magnetism are important topics in physics. Research shows that students have many common difficulties in understanding concepts related to electricity and magnetism. However, research to improve students? understanding of electricity and magnetism is limited compared to introductory mechanics. This thesis explores issues related to students? common difficulties in learning some topics in electricity and magnetism and how these difficulties can be reduced by research-based learning tutorials. We investigated students? difficulties in solving problems involving light bulbs and equations involving circuit elements. We administered multiple choice questions and essay questions to many classes and conducted individual interviews with a subset of students. Based on these investigations, we provide suggestions to improve learning. We also developed and evaluated five tutorials on Coulomb?s law, Gauss?s law and the superposition principle to help students build a robust knowledge structure and firm understanding of these concepts. Students? performance on the corresponding pre- and post-tests indicates that these tutorials effectively improved their understanding. We also designed a Magnetism Conceptual Survey (MCS) that can help instructors probe students? understanding of magnetism concepts. The validity and reliability of this MCS is discussed. The performance of students from different groups (e.g. female students vs. male students, calculus-based students vs. algebra-based students) was compared. We also compare the MCS and the Conceptual Survey of Electricity and Magnetism (CSEM) on common topics. } } @article{pittir23230, volume = {48}, number = {8}, month = {June}, author = {M Li and B Zhang and KP Chen and DW Snoke and AP Heberle}, title = {Noncircular refractive index profile and breakdown of mode degeneracy of vertical cavity surface emitting lasers}, journal = {IEEE Journal of Quantum Electronics}, pages = {1065 -- 1068}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/23230/}, abstract = {Spatially and spectrally resolved near-field images of the transverse mode patterns of vertical cavity surface emitting lasers (VCSELs) are obtained by confocal microscopy with optical spectrum analyzer. A non-circular internal effective index profile of the VCSEL is inferred from the observed wavelength splitting of the degenerated modes. Using the mode intensity patterns associated with their spectral information, an elliptical parabolic profile superposed to a step-like refractive index profile is extracted by fitting the internal structural parameters of VCSEL. Wavelength splitting of the degenerated \$\{{$\backslash$}rm LG\} 01 modes is calculated from the fitting results, and is found to be in reasonable accord with our experiment results. {\copyright} 2012 IEEE.} } @unpublished{pittir6179, month = {January}, title = {PLACE ATTACHMENT IN UNIVERSITY STUDENTS: SOCIAL ANTECEDENTS AND ACADEMIC MOTIVATIONS}, author = {Man Yu Li}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Place Attachment, Academic Motivation, Social Relations, Adult Attachment}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/6179/}, abstract = {Each year the university receives thousands of new students. Some students successfully attach to the school, while some don?t. The thesis aims to study predictors and consequences of university students? place attachment to the university. It was hypothesized that positive social relations predict stronger attachment to university, which in turn predicts more positive academic motivations. Adult attachment and home attachment were added to the model for exploratory purpose. A total of 226 university students taking the Introductory Psychology course at the University of Pittsburgh were used to test the hypothesized model. Results confirmed the hypothesized model. The results yielded practical implications for understanding students? social and academic lives. The study also contributed to the validation of the place attachment measure being developed by the researcher. } } @unpublished{pittir6227, month = {January}, title = {Searching for Entities: When Retrieval Meets Extraction}, author = {Qi Li}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Entity Retrieval, Information Retrieval, Entity Extraction}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/6227/}, abstract = {Retrieving entities from inside of documents, instead of searching for documents or web pages themselves, has become an active topic in both commercial search systems and academic information retrieval research area. Taking into account information needs about entities represented as descriptions with targeted answer entity types, entity search tasks are to return ranked lists of answer entities from unstructured texts, such as news or web pages. Although it works in the same environment as document retrieval, entity retrieval tasks require finer-grained answers entities which need more syntactic and semantic analyses on germane documents than document retrieval. This work proposes a two-layer probability model for addressing this task, which integrates germane document identification and answer entity extraction. Germane document identification retrieves highly related germane documents containing answer entities, while answer entity extraction finds answer entities by utilizing syntactic or linguistic information from those documents. This work theoretically demonstrates the integration of germane document identification and answer entity extraction for the entity retrieval task with the probability model. Moreover, this probability approach helps to reduce the overall retrieval complexity while maintaining high accuracy in locating answer entities. Serial studies are conducted in this dissertation on both germane document identification and answer entity extraction. The learning to rank method is investigated for germane document identification. This method first constructs a model on the training data set using query features, document features, similarity features and rank features. Then the model estimates the probability of the germane documents on testing data sets with the learned model. The experiment indicates that the learning to rank method is significantly better than the baseline systems, which treat germane document identification as a conventional document retrieval problem. The answer entity extraction method aims to correctly extract the answer entities from the germane documents. The methods of answer entity extraction without contexts (such as named entity recognition tools for extraction and knowledge base for extraction) and answer entity extraction with contexts (such as tables/lists as contexts and subject-verb-object structures as contexts) are investigated. These methods individually, however, can extract only parts of answer entities. The method of treating the answer entity extraction problem as a classification problem with the features from the above extraction methods runs significantly better than any of the individual extraction methods. } } @unpublished{pittir13611, month = {September}, title = {Capillary-based microreactor for high throughput catalyst screening in Lewis acid and strong Br{\o}nsted acid catalyzed reactions}, author = {Si Li}, year = {2012}, keywords = {microreactor, organic synthesis, analytical chemistry, catalyst screening}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13611/}, abstract = {The microreactor technique has received considerable research attention due to its promising applications in organic chemistry. Compared to traditional organic synthesis, the employment of microreactor has several advantages. First, the small diameter of the microchannel can reduce the reagent mixing time to milliseconds, allowing fast heat transfer and thermal equilibrium. Second, higher yield and better selectivity are often observed for reactions carried out in a microreactor. Most importantly, reaction optimization and catalyst library generation can be rapidly achieved by the microreactor with reagents on a small scale. In the past few years, our group has been developing a capillary-based microreactor system that is capable of high throughput catalyst screening. This system consists of HPLC apparatus, syringe pumps and capillary tubings, which are all commonly used in the chemistry laboratory. Compared with the traditional chip-based microreactor, our system is easy to operate, and simple to modify. Additionally, it couples with gas chromatography (GC) or high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) for online analysis, providing near-real-time reaction monitoring. One of the applications we explored with our microreactor system was the homogeneous catalysis reaction. The first reaction tested was lanthanide-triflate catalyzed allylation of benzaldehyde with tetraallyltin. With GC online analysis, the reaction was successfully carried out in our microreactor system. The optimized reaction condition, 10\% catalyst load/60 min reaction time in room temperature, was much milder compared with any published bench top conditions. The screening of 8 different catalysts for the reaction was accomplished within 2 hours, which led to a significantly shortened optimization time. The online enantiomeric separation analysis method was developed for a strong chiral Br{\o}nsted acid catalyzed asymmetric cyanide addition. Six chiral columns and various separation conditions were involved in the method development. Due to the incompatible issue between the reaction solvent and column bonded phases, a GC method was optimized and chose as our interfaced online analysis method. } } @article{pittir29865, volume = {10}, number = {S1}, month = {July}, author = {Suzanne C Li and Robert C Fuhlbrigge and Fatma Dedeoglu and Polly J Ferguson and Gloria C Higgins and Sandy D Hong and Heidi Jacobe and Andrew Lasky and Ronald M Laxer and Mimi C Morris and Elena Pope and C Egla Rabinovich and Kathryn S Torok}, title = {Developing juvenile localized scleroderma (jLS) consensus treatment regimens for comparative effectiveness studies}, publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC}, journal = {Pediatric Rheumatology}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29865/} } @unpublished{pittir10500, month = {February}, title = {SOFTWARE UPDATE MANAGEMENT IN WIRELESS SENSOR NETWORKS}, author = {Weijia Li}, year = {2012}, keywords = {UCC register allocation, UCC data allocation, instruction-based patching, data-based patching, incremental coalescing single offset assignment, incremental coalescing general offset assignment, multicast-based code redistribution protocol (MCP), DSP}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10500/}, abstract = {Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) have recently emerged as a promising platform for many non-traditional applications, such as wildfire monitoring and battlefield surveillance. Due to bug fixes, feature enhancements and demand changes, the code running on deployed wireless sensors often needs to be updated, which is done through energy-consuming wireless communication. Since the energy supply of battery-powered sensors is limited, the network lifetime is reduced if more energy is consumed for software update, especially at the early stage of a WSN?s life when bug fixes and feature enhancements are frequent, or in WSNs that support multiple applications, and frequently demand a subset of sensors to fetch and run different applications. In this dissertation, I propose an energy-efficient software update management framework for WSNs. The diff-based software update process can be divided into three phases: new binary generation, diff-patch generation, and patch distribution. I identify the energy-saving opportunities in each phase and develop a set of novel schemes to achieve overall energy efficiency. In the phase of generating new binary after source code changes, I design an update-conscious compilation approach to improve the code similarity between the new and old binaries. In the phase of generating update patch, I adopt simple primitives in the literature and develop a set of advanced primitives. I then study the energy-efficient patch distribution in WSNs and develop a multicast-based code distribution protocol to effectively disseminate the patch to individual sensors. In summary, this dissertation successfully addresses an important problem in WSNs. Update-conscious compilation is the first work that compiles the code with the goal of improving code similarity, and proves to be effective. The other components in the proposed framework also advance the state of the art. The proposed software update management framework benefits all WSN users, as software update is indispensable in WSNs. The techniques developed in this framework can also be adapted to other platforms such as the smart phone network.} } @article{pittir16051, volume = {7}, number = {9}, month = {September}, title = {An Opposite Effect of the CDK Inhibitor, p18{\ensuremath{<}}sup{\ensuremath{>}}INK4c{\ensuremath{<}}/sup{\ensuremath{>}} on Embryonic Stem Cells Compared with Tumor and Adult Stem Cells}, author = {Y Li and R Pal and LY Sung and H Feng and W Miao and SY Cheng and C Tian and T Cheng}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16051/}, abstract = {Self-renewal is a feature common to both adult and embryonic stem (ES) cells, as well as tumor stem cells (TSCs). The cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor, p18INK4c, is a known tumor suppressor that can inhibit self-renewal of tumor cells or adult stem cells. Here, we demonstrate an opposite effect of p18 on ES cells in comparison with teratoma cells. Our results unexpectedly showed that overexpression of p18 accelerated the growth of mouse ES cells and embryonic bodies (EB); on the contrary, inhibited the growth of late stage teratoma. Up-regulation of ES cell markers (i.e., Oct4, Nanog, Sox2, and Rex1) were detected in both ES and EB cells, while concomitant down-regulation of various differentiation markers was observed in EB cells. These results demonstrate that p18 has an opposite effect on ES cells as compared with tumor cells and adult stem cells. Mechanistically, expression of CDK4 was significantly increased with overexpression of p18 in ES cells, likely leading to a release of CDK2 from the inhibition by p21 and p27. As a result, self-renewal of ES cells was enhanced. Our current study suggests that targeting p18 in different cell types may yield different outcomes, thereby having implications for therapeutic manipulations of cell cycle machinery in stem cells. {\copyright} 2012 Li et al.} } @incollection{pittir18812, month = {December}, title = {VICO: A framework for configuring indoor visible light communication networks}, author = {Y Li and L Wang and J Ning and K Pelechrinis and SV Krishnamurthy and Z Xu}, year = {2012}, pages = {136 -- 144}, journal = {MASS 2012 - 9th IEEE International Conference on Mobile Ad-Hoc and Sensor Systems}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18812/}, abstract = {Visible light communications (VLC) are gaining popularity and may provide an alternative means of communications in indoor settings. However, to date, there is very little research on the deployment or higher layer protocol design for VLC. In this paper, we first perform channel measurements using a physical layer testbed in the visible light band to understand its physical layer characteristics. Our measurements suggest that in order to increase data rates with VLC (1) the beam width of a communicating link can be shrunk, and (2) the transmission beam can be tuned to point towards the target recipient. We then perform Matlab simulations to verify that the human eye is able to accommodate the changes brought by shrinking a beam or by tuning the beam direction appropriately. As our main contribution, we then design a configuration framework for a VLC indoor local area network, which we call VICO; we leverage the above features towards achieving the highest throughput while maintaining fairness. VICO first tunes the beamwidths and pointing angles of the transmitters to configurations that provide the highest throughput for each client. It then tries to schedule transmissions while accounting for conflicts and the VLC PHY characteristics. Finally, it opportunistically tunes the idle LEDs to reinforce existing transmissions to increase throughput to the extent possible. We perform extensive simulations to demonstrate the effectiveness of VICO. We find that VICO provides as much as 5-fold increase in throughput compared to a simple scheduler that does not exploit the possible variations in beamwidth or beam-angle. {\copyright} 2012 IEEE.} } @inproceedings{pittir19437, month = {December}, title = {Collaborative e-learning through open social student modeling and Progressive Zoom navigation}, author = {M Liang and J Guerra and GE Marai and P Brusilovsky}, year = {2012}, pages = {252 -- 261}, journal = {CollaborateCom 2012 - Proceedings of the 8th International Conference on Collaborative Computing: Networking, Applications and Worksharing}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19437/}, abstract = {Students usually do not study individually; instead, they tend to study collaboratively. The 'power of known peers' can be embraced to provide implicit navigation support for collaborative social e-learning environments. In this paper, we present a novel approach to collaborative e-learning through open social student modeling with Progressive Zoom navigation support. Progressive Zoom is a Google-Maps paradigm which seeks to address information overload issues. It enables students to zoom in or out in a multi-layer fashion, so students can reflect on their individual and peer progress based on the knowledge and pedagogical context. In our initial survey, all students were satisfied with the navigation interface and would recommend the interface to their classmates. {\copyright} 2012 ICST.} } @inproceedings{pittir19453, volume = {872}, month = {December}, title = {Building multi-layer social knowledge maps with google maps API}, author = {ME Liang and J Guerra and P Brusilovsky}, year = {2012}, journal = {CEUR Workshop Proceedings}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19453/}, abstract = {Google Maps is an intuitive online-map service which changes people's way of navigation on Geo-maps. People can explore the maps in a multi-layer fashion in order to avoid information overloading. This paper reports an innovative approach to extend the "power" of Google Maps to adaptive learning. We have designed and implemented a navigator for multi-layer social knowledge maps, namely ProgressiveZoom, with Google Maps API. In our demonstration, the knowledge maps are built from the Interactive System Design (ISD) course at the School of Information Science, University of Pittsburgh. Students can read the textbooks and reflect their individual and social learning progress in a context of pedagogical hierarchical structure.} } @unpublished{pittir10910, month = {June}, title = {Nanostructured Noble Metal Catalysts for Water-Gas Shift Reaction}, author = {Shuang Liang}, year = {2012}, keywords = {catalyst,water-gas shift, nanostructure}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10910/}, abstract = {The water-gas shift (WGS) reaction (CO + H2O = CO2 + H2) has attracted great research attention because of its applications in adjusting H2/CO ratio for the Fischer-Tropsch process, providing hydrogen-rich streams for fuel cells and processing exhaust gases from automobiles. However, the current WGS process suffers from certain drawbacks of traditional catalysts, such as the toxicity of Fe-Cr-based catalysts and the instability/low space velocity of Cu-based catalysts. In the search for alternative catalysts to overcome these drawbacks, novel metal-based catalysts have been the focal point of most recent studies. The structures and properties of CeO2, on which the rate determining step proceeds (i.e. water dissociation), are believed to fundamentally impact the performance of this catalyst. In this project, the objective is to develop a rational design of novel metal-based WGS catalyst which combines high activity with stability against sintering and poisoning. In order to achieve this objective, we have prepared pure and mixed lanthanum-cerium oxide supports, and investigated the effects of these compositions and morphologies to the material?s reducibility and catalytic activity. For the composition, it was found that a proper amount of La doping can improve the WGS activity by tailoring the Ce4+/Ce3+ ratio. When we change the morphology, the CeO2 nanorods were observed to be a better support for Au than the CeO2 nanoparticles. The outstanding performance of the CeO2 nanorods were attributed to its predominantly exposed crystal plane \{110\}, which is more active to be reduced and to form oxygen vacancies than the \{111\} exposed by CeO2 nanoparticles. After obtaining the high activity WGS catalysts, we have improved our catalysts against particle sintering and S-poisoning. Surface decoration technique has been applied to prepare layered La2O3/M/CeO2 (M = Au, Pt) with sulfur resistance and regeneration ability during cyclic sour WGS. On one hand, La2O3 has been demonstrated as a protective overlayer against H2S in syngas feedstocks in addition to its stabilizing effect to prevent Au nanoparticles sintering. On the other hand, reducible CeO2 supports enable complete regeneration of sulfur-poisoned Pt catalysts due to the strong metal support interaction (SMSI).} } @unpublished{pittir12636, month = {September}, title = {The Complex Phase Transformation of Austenite in High Strength Linepipe Steels and Its Influence on the Mechanical Properties}, author = {Xiaojun Liang}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Thermomechanical processing; linepipe steel; bainite transformation; Martensite austenite constituent; EBSD; grain boundary; crystallographic packet size; toughness; orientation; grain coarsening; recrystallization}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12636/}, abstract = {During processing of low carbon high strength linepipe steels, complex microstructures are usually obtained. Toughness of the steels is found to be strongly dependent on the complex microstructures. Since the microstructural and chemical condition of austenite is very important for the subsequent microstructures, austenite grain coarsening and recrystallization temperatures were determined. The results showed addition of 0.3wt\% more chromium can reduce about 100?C of the grain coarsening temperature. Thus, the alloy design should be considered together with thermomechanical processing to avoid the mixture of austenite grain size. It was found that Bs temperatures of steel have a wide range from 400?C to 580?C, depending on cooling rates. The formation of martensite-austenite (MA) constituents and bainitic transformation were investigated in isothermal treatment and continuous cooling conditions. The carbon diffusion was discussed from the view point of thermodynamics and kinetics to explain the formation of MA during bainitic transformation. It was found that controlling carbon diffusion is most important point for the formation of MA. Some experiments were designed and the results confirmed the thermodynamics analysis. In addition, the crystallographic orientations of bainite formed at different bainite transformation temperatures were also determined by EBSD analysis. The orientations of bainite are irrational, but two typical orientations were found. The orientation is near {\ensuremath{<}}113{\ensuremath{>}} at a higher transformation temperature and the orientation is near {\ensuremath{<}}331{\ensuremath{>}} at a lower transformation temperature. The crystallographic packet size of bainite is large when the orientation is near {\ensuremath{<}}113{\ensuremath{>}}. Coincident Site Lattice (CSL) grain boundaries were introduced to explain its relationship to toughness. As proposed in this thesis, the size and volume fraction of MA, crystallographic packet size and CSL grain boundaries are the three predominant factors affecting the impact toughness of steels. Thus, some methods were proposed for impact toughness improvement. In this regard, a schematic CCT diagram was developed based on the classification of bainite and the distribution of MA within each classification. These results could provide some guidance for improved understanding of the complex microstructures of these steels. } } @unpublished{pittir13619, month = {September}, title = {SYNTHESIS AND NMR STUDIES OF A {\ensuremath{\beta}}-TURN MIMETIC MOLECULAR TORSION BALANCE}, author = {Melissa Liberatore}, year = {2012}, keywords = {torsion balance, NMR, hydrogen bond, antiparallel beta sheet, conformational dynamics}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13619/}, abstract = {The attainment of precise measurements of the molecular forces that influence protein folding is important in order to further understand peptide dynamics and stability. A hybrid synthetic-natural peptide motif, combining an o,o,o?-trisubstituted biphenyl with an (ortho-tolyl)-amide, was synthesized in multiple formats and studied by NMR to probe the effects of amino acid substitutions on antiparallel beta-sheet configuration and stability. The potential of this ?molecular torsion balance? as a beta-turn mimic was demonstrated by quantifying the rotational barriers about several axes. The free-energy rotational barrier of the aryl-aryl bond was found to be 35.7 kcal mol-1 at 418 K in hexanes. EXSY analysis was also used to measure barriers about the N-aryl (20.9 kcal mol-1 at 343 K in toluene-d8) and N-CO bonds (17.2 kcal mol-1 at 298 K in chloroform-d). The N-aryl barriers of a zwitterionic torsion balance containing a single alanine residue (19.7 kcal mol-1 in acetonitrile-d3 at 343 K, and 22.6 kcal mol-1 in deuterated buffer pD 6.9 at 373 K) showed that rotation about this bond is slower in water, most likely due to the propensity of water to form hydrogen bonds with the charged moieties participating in a salt bridge. Torsion balances were used to study intramolecular hydrogen bond preference by analyzing 1H NMR peak data. An amino acid chain (a single alanine or glycine residue) was found to preferably hydrogen bond with an amide versus an ester carbonyl (1.4:1.0 at 298 K in toluene-d8), and with a secondary amide versus a tertiary amide carbonyl (observation of tertiary amide proton coalescence via variable temperature NMR, from 303 K to 343 K, in toluene-d8). The overall findings suggest that this hybrid torsion balance is a valuable tool that can provide data on conformational dynamics and can examine hydrogen bond and salt bridge interactions of an antiparallel beta-sheet scaffold.} } @unpublished{pittir11844, month = {June}, title = {THE ADVANCED PLACEMENT PROGRAM IN PENNSYLVANIA: IMPLICATIONS FOR POLICY AND PRACTICE IN K-12 AND HIGHER EDUCATION}, author = {Chriistine Y. Liekar}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Advanced Placement, Secondary Education, Standardized Testing}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11844/}, abstract = { Since the time of Sputnik, American educators and policymakers have recognized the need to raise expectations by increasing rigor in high schools across the United States. Copious studies attest to the fact that students who take Advanced Placement coursework experience success in college (Adelman, 1999; Camara, 2003; College Board, 2005; Dougherty, Chrys, Mellor, Lynn, \& Jian, 2006; Geiser \& Santelices, 2004; Klopfenstein \& Thomas, 2005; Morgan \& Ramist, 1998; National Association of National Secondary School Principals, 2004; The National High School Alliance, 2006; The No Child Left Behind Act, 2002; PL107-110, 2001). Performing well on an Advanced Placement exam means more than just accomplishing college-level work; it is a pathway to success in college. With the acceptance of the Advanced Placement Program as an instrument of rigor by teachers and administrators in secondary education and higher education, alike, the purpose of this research study was to aggregate and examine data available in public documents pertaining to the Advanced Placement Program in Pennsylvania. This study is meant to present a picture of where we, as a state, are now. It is meant to be a prelude, a preface to a more complete story in the years to come. } } @unpublished{pittir11499, month = {June}, title = {Inference on Censored Survival Data Under Competing Risks}, author = {Jeong Youn Lim}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Competing risks, Survival analysis, Residual life analysis}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11499/}, abstract = {Competing risks is commonly encountered in survival data. While fundamental methods have been established to analyze survival data in the presence of competing risks, some of methods still remain undeveloped. The primary goal of this study is to extend existing methods for survival analysis to the competing risks settings. In the first study is to determine the optimal cutpoint in the presence of competing risks. A continuous variable often needs to be dichotomized to quantify the prognostic effect. The "outcome-oriented" cutpoint approach is the useful method without any prior knowledge about that variable, which is to seek an optimal cut point that provides the maximum difference in prognostic effect between the splits. The rescaled sequential method is one of the approaches for estimating the optimal cutpoint and for adjusting its significance after the dichotomization. We adapted the concept of improper random variables from Gray's test and modified log-rank test to apply the rescaled sequential approaches. We present simulation results of the operating characteristics of the proposed method. A real dataset from National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project (NSABP) B-14 is exemplified. In the second part, a quantile residual life regression model was developed for competing risks. Residual life analysis provides useful information when the effect of prognostic factors on the distribution of remaining lifetimes is evaluated at several years after the initial diagnosis/therapy. This model allows for meaningful interpretations of covariate effects on not only any quantile residual life but also at a specific time point. Simulation studies are performed to assess the finite sample properties of proposed method in terms of the parameter estimator, type I error and power of the test statistics at different time points. The new regression method is illustrated with a NSABP B-04 dataset. Although competing risks have been an important issue in survival analysis research, it is often neglected by clinical researchers due to its complex nature and lack of available methodology. Development of inference procedures suitable for competing risks data would provide more accurate additional information, which has great significance in a public health perspective leading to improved patient care in clinical settings.} } @article{pittir18862, volume = {16}, number = {3}, month = {April}, author = {SH Lim and CL Christen and MP Marshal and RD Stall and N Markovic and KH Kim and AJ Silvestre}, title = {Middle-aged and older men who have sex with men exhibit multiple trajectories with respect to the number of sexual partners}, journal = {AIDS and Behavior}, pages = {590 -- 598}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18862/}, abstract = {This study aimed to examine trajectories with respect to the number of sexual partners among older men who have sex with men and to determine characteristics associated with trajectory groups. Nagin's group-based modeling was used to identify trajectories for 237 men from the Pitt Men's Study with respect to the number of male intercourse partners from age 50.0 to 59.5. Three distinct trajectory groups were identified. Most men (69.2\%) had a median of two sexual partners in the past 6 months across the age range of the study. A smaller group (19.4\%) had low or no sex partners. The smallest group (11.4\%) had 30 or more sexual partners in the past 6 months at age 50. The groups were statistically different with respect to race, HIV status, drug use (marijuana, poppers, crack cocaine, and Viagra), the number of unprotected anal sex partners, and personal attitudes towards sex.{\copyright} 2011 Springer Science+Business Media, LLC.} } @article{pittir18863, volume = {16}, number = {7}, month = {October}, author = {SH Lim and TE Guadamuz and C Wei and R Chan and S Koe}, title = {Factors associated with unprotected receptive anal intercourse with internal ejaculation among men who have sex with men in a large internet sample from asia}, journal = {AIDS and Behavior}, pages = {1979 -- 1987}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18863/}, abstract = {We examined socio-demographic and behavioral characteristics of men who have sex with men (MSM) residing in Asia and correlates of unprotected receptive intercourse with Internet ejaculation (URAIE). Asia Internet MSM Sex Survey, a behavioral survey of MSM in Asia was conducted from 1 January to 28 February 2010. Data analysis was limited to participants aged 18 or above, biological male, and had one regular or casual sex partner in the past 6 months (n = 10,413). Pearson's Chi-square test, t test and logistic regression were used to examine the correlates of URAIE in the past 6 months, the highest risk sexual behavior sampled. Of 7311 participants who had receptive anal intercourse, 47.5 \% had URAIE, which was associated with the following attributes: less than high-school education and pre-college education compared to university (AOR = 1.53, 95 \% CI: 1.28, 1.83; AOR = 1.22, CI: 1.08, 1.37), being in the heterosexual marriage (AOR = 1.35, CI: 1.18, 1.56), having regular partners or both regular and casual partners compared to having casual partners (AOR = 2.85, CI: 2.48, 3.27; AOR = 2.32, CI: 2.06, 2.62), HIV-positive compared to HIV-negative status (AOR = 1.39, 95 \% CI: 1.08, 1.81), higher perception of HIV risk (AOR = 1.62, CI: 1.34, 1.95), use of recreational drug before sex (AOR = 1.30, CI: 1.14, 1.49), and use of the Internet as the main way to seek sex partners (AOR = 1.21, CI: 1.08, 1.36). MSM from certain Asian countries reported alarming rates of URAIE. The internet can be used as a platform for HIV surveillance and intervention. {\copyright} Springer Science+Business Media, LLC 2012.} } @article{pittir18885, volume = {16}, number = {1}, month = {January}, author = {SH Lim and D Ostrow and R Stall and J Chmiel and A Herrick and S Shoptaw and U Kao and A Carrico and M Plankey}, title = {Changes in stimulant drug use over time in the MACS: Evidence for resilience against stimulant drug use among men who have sex with men}, journal = {AIDS and Behavior}, pages = {151 -- 158}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18885/}, abstract = {Stimulant drug use is associated with numerous health problems among men who have sex with men (MSM). This paper describes how stimulant drug use changes over a four and one-half year period from 2003 until 2008. Participants were 2,389 men (17,222 person-visits) from The Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study (MACS)-an ongoing, prospective study of HIV infection among MSM. Groupbased trajectory analyses of data from these men over the study period yielded a four groups solution: consistent users (9.8\%), men whose use increased (5.4\%), men whose use declined (6.9\%), and abstinent or rarely-using men (77.9\%). There were significant differences between groups in terms of demographic, behavioral risk and HIV serostatus. Men who increased or decreased stimulant drug use over time reported congruent changes in sexual risk taking. The fact that sexual risk levels parallel stimulant drug use over time suggests that finding ways to lower rates of stimulant drug use among MSM could be a tool in HIV prevention. {\copyright} 2011 Springer Science+Business Media , LLC.} } @unpublished{pittir12444, month = {July}, title = {SEXUAL DIMORPHISM IN SOFT TISSUE FACIAL FORM AS CAPTURED BY DIGITAL THREE-DIMENSIONAL PHOTOGRAMMETRY}, author = {Seung B. Lim}, year = {2012}, keywords = {soft tissue, facial form, sexual dimorphism, male and female differences, face shape}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12444/}, abstract = {Sexual dimorphism in the head and neck area is a particular interest to orthodontists who manipulate the underlying hard tissue in order to alter the overlaying soft tissue. Hard tissue differences between the sexes have been well documented in the literature with the advent of the cephalostat. With the enlightenment of the ?soft tissue paradigm?, research has been shifted towards revealing differences in the soft tissue. Although overall size difference, with males being larger, has been a commonly recurring theme, elucidating shape differences has been more subtle. A large sample (n=586) of adults with recent European ancestry have been recruited for the study. Five direct anthropometric measurements were taken using calipers while 29 indirect anthropometric measurements were captured using a 3dMD digital stereophotogrammetry system (Atlanta, GA). Seven indices were derived and compared between the sexes. Statistical analysis was performed using a t-test as well as an analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) using height as the covariate measure. Our results confirmed that males were larger than females on all 34 measurements, and 32 of the 34 measurement differences were found to be significant according to the t-test (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.001). Although the upper and lower vermilion heights were absolutely larger for males, vermilion height in females was proportionally larger relative to the size of the mouth. Once height was factored in, the number of significant findings decreased to 27 of the 34 measurements according to the ANCOVA (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.001). Measurements such as ?minimum frontal width?, ?palpebral fissure length (right)?, ?palpebral fissure length (left)?, ?nasal protrusion?, and ?nasal height? were found to be non-significant when the effects of body size (height) was controlled. Three of the four index comparisons were significant according to the t-test (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.001). ?Upper-middle facial depth index? was larger in females indicating that they have a more anterior projection of nasion and/or a more posterior projection of subnasale. Females also had a larger ?middle-lower facial index? indicating that females have more convexity to their profile shape. Males had a larger ?nasal index? suggesting that they have a relatively shorter and wider nose. } } @unpublished{pittir16777, month = {December}, title = {Tim-1 signaling and localization during T cell activation}, author = {Jean Lin}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Tim-1, T cell activation, distal pole complex, PLCg1, signaling}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16777/}, abstract = {Transmembrane immunoglobulin and mucin 1 (Tim-1) belongs to a family of cell surface proteins with roles in immune regulation, among other functions. Tim-1 polymorphisms have been implicated in human asthma susceptibility, and antibody modulation of Tim-1 has been shown to modulate murine models of autoimmune disease and allograft tolerance. This ability of Tim-1 to influence disease progression has been attributed to its role in co-stimulating T cell function, inducing transcriptional activation, and skewing cytokine production. Despite the emerging role of Tim-1 in immune modulation, the molecular mechanisms underlying Tim-1 function remain largely unidentified. We and others have demonstrated that Tim-1 is a co-stimulatory molecule with the ability to enhance transcriptional activation. However, it is unknown where Tim-1 localizes upon T cell activation, an avenue of investigation that has yielded important insights about other molecules involved in T cell activation. Using imaging, I demonstrate that in contrast to most co-stimulatory molecules, murine Tim-1 localizes away from the immunological synapse, and towards the distal pole complex in manner dependent on ezrin/radixin/moesin (ERM) family proteins. This localization is important for Tim-1 enhancement of cytokine production. In addition, a variety of molecular, pharmacological, and biochemical methods were used to examine the molecules and pathways induced downstream of Tim-1 activation. In particular, I discovered that Tim-1 can trigger NFAT/AP-1 activation in a PLC-?1 independent, but TCR- and CD28-dependent, manner. Overall, this dissertation reveals some of the complexity underlying Tim-1 function. Better understanding of where and how Tim-1 interacts with other molecules will provide greater insight into Tim-1 mediated T cell activation and disease modulation.} } @unpublished{pittir6225, month = {June}, title = {Problem Solving, Scaffolding and Learning}, author = {Shih-Yin Lin}, year = {2012}, keywords = {problem solving scaffolding learning}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/6225/}, abstract = {Helping students to construct robust understanding of physics concepts and develop good problem solving skills is a central goal in many physics classrooms. This thesis examines students? problem solving abilities from different perspectives and explores strategies to scaffold students? learning. In studies involving analogical problem solving between isomorphic problems, we evaluate introductory physics students? abilities to learn from the solved problems provided and transfer their learning to solve the corresponding quiz problems which involve the same physics principles but different surface features. Findings suggest that postponing the providing of the solved problems until students have attempted to solve the quiz problems first without help is a good way to scaffold students? analogical problem solving. Categorization of problems based upon similarity of solution provides another angle to evaluate and scaffold students? ability to reflect on the deep features of the problems. A study on categorization of quantum mechanics problems reveals that the faculty overall perform better categorization than the students. However, unlike the categorization of introductory mechanics problems, in which the categories created by the faculty are uniform and based on the fundamental physics principles, the categorization in quantum mechanics is based on the concepts and procedures, and is more diverse. In addition to investigating strategies that may guide students to develop a better knowledge structure in physics, from the learners? perspective, we also explore possible strategies to help instructors improve their teaching of problem solving and to assess student difficulties more efficiently. Investigating how teaching assistants (TAs) design problem solutions in view of the recommendations from research literature, we find that the TAs don?t necessarily notice all components in a problem solution that are valued by the educational researchers. There is much room for improvement when it comes to actual practice. Another study involving comparison between different assessment tools reveals that carefully designed multiple-choice questions can reflect the relative performance on the free-response problems while maintaining the benefit of ease of grading, especially if the different choices in the multiple-choice questions are weighted to reflect the different levels of understanding that students display.} } @article{pittir19638, volume = {8}, number = {1}, month = {January}, author = {Yu-Ru Lin and Hari Sundaram and Munmun De Choudhury and Aisling Kelliher}, title = {Discovering multirelational structure in social media streams}, publisher = {Association for Computing Machinery (ACM)}, year = {2012}, journal = {ACM Transactions on Multimedia Computing, Communications, and Applications}, pages = {1 -- 28}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19638/}, abstract = {{\ensuremath{<}}jats:p{\ensuremath{>}}In this article, we present a novel algorithm to discover multirelational structures from social media streams. A media item such as a photograph exists as part of a meaningful interrelationship among several attributes, including time, visual content, users, and actions. Discovery of such relational structures enables us to understand the semantics of human activity and has applications in content organization, recommendation algorithms, and exploratory social network analysis.{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:p{\ensuremath{>}} {\ensuremath{<}}jats:p{\ensuremath{>}}We are proposing a novel nonnegative matrix factorization framework to characterize relational structures of group photo streams. The factorization incorporates image content features and contextual information. The idea is to consider a cluster as having similar relational patterns; each cluster consists of photos relating to similar content or context. Relations represent different aspects of the photo stream data, including visual content, associated tags, photo owners, and post times. The extracted structures minimize the mutual information of the predicted joint distribution. We also introduce a relational modularity function to determine the structure cost penalty, and hence determine the number of clusters. Extensive experiments on a large Flickr dataset suggest that our approach is able to extract meaningful relational patterns from group photo streams. We evaluate the utility of the discovered structures through a tag prediction task and through a user study. Our results show that our method based on relational structures, outperforms baseline methods, including feature and tag frequency based techniques, by 35\%--420\%. We have conducted a qualitative user study to evaluate the benefits of our framework in exploring group photo streams. The study indicates that users found the extracted clustering results clearly represent major themes in a group; the clustering results not only reflect how users describe the group data but often lead the users to discover the evolution of the group activity.{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:p{\ensuremath{>}}} } @article{pittir21950, volume = {1}, number = {1}, month = {May}, author = {Faina Linkov and Ronald LaPorte}, title = {The Central Asian Journal of Global Health: A Supercourse Journal}, publisher = {University Library System, University of Pittsburgh}, journal = {Central Asian Journal of Global Health}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/21950/} } @incollection{pittir22885, volume = {872}, month = {December}, title = {Evaluating Learning Factors analysis}, author = {M Lipschultz and D Litman and P Jordan and S Katz}, year = {2012}, journal = {CEUR Workshop Proceedings}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22885/}, abstract = {Learning Factors Analysis (LFA), a form of student modeling, is used to predict whether a student can correctly answer a tutor question. Existing evaluations of LFA rely on metrics like the cross-validated root mean squared error (RMSE). However, the LFA output can be a binary classification (the student will be correct or not), so we can use classification metrics, such as precision and recall, to evaluate LFA models. In this paper, we show that this finer-grained analysis can lead to different conclusions than relying on only RMSE.} } @unpublished{pittir6178, month = {February}, title = {Role of locus coeruleus and amygdala projections to ventral subiculum in stress regulation}, author = {Witold Lipski}, year = {2012}, keywords = {ventral subiculum, locus coeruleus, amygdala, norepinephrine, stress, rat}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/6178/}, abstract = {The hippocampal formation, and the ventral subiculum (vSub), constitute a central node in mediating the forebrain?s stress response, particularly to psychogenic stressors. The vSub regulates midbrain dopamine neuron population activity via its output to the nucleus accumbens (NAc)-pallidal-ventral tegmental area circuit, providing a potential functional link between stress and dopaminergic system. However, it is not known how appropriate vSub activity is generated in response to stress. The vSub receives projections from two stress-related inputs, locus coeruleus (LC) and basolateral nucleus of the amygdala (BLA). In this study, direct LC innervation of the vSub and indirect input through the BLA was investigated as potential mediators of stress responses in the vSub. The effect of norepinephrine (NE) on single vSub neurons was examined using microiontophoresis combined with electrophysiological recording in anesthetized rats. The response to NE in the vSub was compared to the effect of electrical stimulation of the LC. Iontophoretic NE inhibited vSub neurons, while LC stimulation inhibited 16\%, and activated 38\% of neurons. Inhibition was mediated by alpha-2, whereas activation by beta-adrenergic receptors. Moreover, vSub neurons were activated by BLA stimulation, and LC pre-stimulation both potentiated and suppressed these responses in neuronal subpopulations. To examine the activation by stress, the effect of footshock on vSub neurons was tested. Footshock inhibited 13\%, and activated 48\% of neurons. Responses to footshock were correlated to LC stimulation-evoked responses in single neurons. Prazosin, an alpha-1 antagonist, reversed footshock-evoked inhibition, revealing an underlying activation. Inactivation of the BLA did not block LC stimulation- or footshock- evoked activation, while LC inactivation blocked both. To examine stress effects on vSub neurons involved in modulation of DA activity, a subpopulation of vSub neurons projecting to the NAc was identified using retrograde tracing. Restraint stress activated these neurons as measured by Fos expression. These results suggest that the LC NE system plays an important role in mediating responses to stress in the vSub. Stress-induced activation of the LC NE system evokes inhibition and activation in the vSub, both of which may contribute to stress adaptation. An imbalance of this system may lead to pathological stress responses in mental disorders. } } @incollection{pittir22887, volume = {1}, month = {December}, title = {Prosodic cues to disengagement and uncertainty in physics tutorial dialogues}, author = {D Litman and H Friedberg and K Forbes-Riley}, year = {2012}, pages = {754 -- 757}, journal = {13th Annual Conference of the International Speech Communication Association 2012, INTERSPEECH 2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22887/}, abstract = {This paper focuses on the analysis and prediction of student disengagement and uncertainty, using a corpus of dialogues collected with a spoken tutorial dialogue system in the STEM domain of qualitative physics. We first compare and contrast the prosodic characteristics of dialogue turns exhibiting disengagement or not, and those exhibiting uncertainty or not. We then compare the utility of using multiple prosodic features to predict both disengagement and uncertainty.} } @article{pittir15903, volume = {8}, number = {9}, month = {September}, title = {The Spatial Structure of Stimuli Shapes the Timescale of Correlations in Population Spiking Activity}, author = {A Litwin-Kumar and MJ Chacron and B Doiron}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS Computational Biology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15903/}, abstract = {Throughout the central nervous system, the timescale over which pairs of neural spike trains are correlated is shaped by stimulus structure and behavioral context. Such shaping is thought to underlie important changes in the neural code, but the neural circuitry responsible is largely unknown. In this study, we investigate a stimulus-induced shaping of pairwise spike train correlations in the electrosensory system of weakly electric fish. Simultaneous single unit recordings of principal electrosensory cells show that an increase in the spatial extent of stimuli increases correlations at short ({\texttt{\char126}}10 ms) timescales while simultaneously reducing correlations at long ({\texttt{\char126}}100 ms) timescales. A spiking network model of the first two stages of electrosensory processing replicates this correlation shaping, under the assumptions that spatially broad stimuli both saturate feedforward afferent input and recruit an open-loop inhibitory feedback pathway. Our model predictions are experimentally verified using both the natural heterogeneity of the electrosensory system and pharmacological blockade of descending feedback projections. For weak stimuli, linear response analysis of the spiking network shows that the reduction of long timescale correlation for spatially broad stimuli is similar to correlation cancellation mechanisms previously suggested to be operative in mammalian cortex. The mechanism for correlation shaping supports population-level filtering of irrelevant distractor stimuli, thereby enhancing the population response to relevant prey and conspecific communication inputs. {\copyright} 2012 Litwin-Kumar et al.} } @article{pittir17126, volume = {11}, number = {3}, month = {July}, author = {HY Liu and G Grindle and FC Chuang and A Kelleher and R Cooper and D Siewiorek and A Smailagic and R Cooper}, title = {A survey of feedback modalities for wheelchair power seat functions}, journal = {IEEE Pervasive Computing}, pages = {54 -- 62}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17126/}, abstract = {Power seat functions (PSFs) let power wheelchair users adjust their posture independently. The Virtual Seating Coach aims to prompt users to use PSFs appropriately and warn against improper use. The authors surveyed users about their preferences for PSF feedback modalities. {\copyright} 2012 IEEE.} } @unpublished{pittir10757, month = {February}, title = {On the theories of biomolecular interactions and their applications in intrinsic protein disorder and bacterial spore germination}, author = {Jintao Liu}, year = {2012}, keywords = {binding, catalysis, intrinsic disorder, specificity, transcription, spore, germination, heterogeneity, signal processing, germinant receptor}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10757/}, abstract = {Living organisms are complex systems, where complexity arises in part from the large number of interacting components. Here I address interactions in two topics: intrinsically disordered proteins (IDP) and bacterial spore germination. In the first part, I study the role of intrinsic protein disorder in protein function with a standard thermodynamic model. IDPs are proteins without stable structure in their native states. Their ubiquitous presence undercuts the traditional view that a protein?s structure determines its function. Here I propose a quantitative theory that makes predictions regarding the role of intrinsic disorder in protein structure and function. By relating disorder with the free energy of folding, I show that both catalytic and low-affinity binding proteins prefer ordered structures, whereas high-affinity binding proteins can tolerate disorder. Relevant to both transcription and signal transduction, the theory also explains how increasing disorder can tune the binding affinity to maximize the specificity of promiscuous interactions. These claims are supported by a genome-wide survey of disorder. Collectively, the study provides insights into how natural selection acts on folding stability to optimize protein function. In the second part, I study the mechanism of the initiation of bacterial spore germination and propose a quantitative model. Spores are formed by some species of gram positive bacteria (e.g., Bacillus and Clostridium) during starvation. They are metabolically dormant and can later germinate into vegetative cells when nutrients (called germinants) reappear. The lag time of germination after encountering germinants is highly heterogeneous for spores in the same population, and the mechanism is still unclear. Here I propose a quantitative model based on the assumption that the heterogeneity is due to the variability in levels of activated germinant receptors (GR) per spore. The model produces predictions that are consistent with experiments on germination with mixtures of nutrients that trigger different types of GRs, which also suggests that signals from different GRs are summed by a common integrator.} } @unpublished{pittir10843, month = {January}, title = {Ontology Enrichment from Free-text Clinical Documents: A Comparison of Alternative Approaches}, author = {Kaihong Liu}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Ontology Learning, Ontology Enrichment, Knowledge acquisition and extraction, Natural Language Processing, Information Extraction, Ontology Learning Evaluation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10843/}, abstract = {While the biomedical informatics community widely acknowledges the utility of domain ontologies, there remain many barriers to their effective use. One important requirement of domain ontologies is that they achieve a high degree of coverage of the domain concepts and concept relationships. However, the development of these ontologies is typically a manual, time-consuming, and often error-prone process. Limited resources result in missing concepts and relationships, as well as difficulty in updating the ontology as domain knowledge changes. Methodologies developed in the fields of Natural Language Processing (NLP), Information Extraction (IE), Information Retrieval (IR), and Machine Learning (ML) provide techniques for automating the enrichment of ontology from free-text documents. In this dissertation, I extended these methodologies into biomedical ontology development. First, I reviewed existing methodologies and systems developed in the fields of NLP, IR, and IE, and discussed how existing methods can benefit the development of biomedical ontologies. This previously unconducted review was published in the Journal of Biomedical Informatics. Second, I compared the effectiveness of three methods from two different approaches, the symbolic (the Hearst method) and the statistical (the Church and Lin methods), using clinical free-text documents. Third, I developed a methodological framework for Ontology Learning (OL) evaluation and comparison. This framework permits evaluation of the two types of OL approaches that include three OL methods. The significance of this work is as follows: 1) The results from the comparative study showed the potential of these methods for biomedical ontology enrichment. For the two targeted domains (NCIT and RadLex), the Hearst method revealed an average of 21\% and 11\% new concept acceptance rates, respectively. The Lin method produced a 74\% acceptance rate for NCIT; the Church method, 53\%. As a result of this study (published in the Journal of Methods of Information in Medicine), many suggested candidates have been incorporated into the NCIT; 2) The evaluation framework is flexible and general enough that it can analyze the performance of ontology enrichment methods for many domains, thus expediting the process of automation and minimizing the likelihood that key concepts and relationships would be missed as domain knowledge evolves. } } @unpublished{pittir10519, month = {February}, title = {INVESTIGATION OF HOMOGENEOUS-HETEROGENEOUS COUPLING EFFECTS IN THE HIGH TEMPERATURE CATALYTIC OXIDATION REACTIONS OF LIGHT ALKANES IN A NOVEL MICROCHEMICAL REACTOR SYSTEM}, author = {Sen Liu}, year = {2012}, keywords = {high-temperature catalysis homogeneous-heterogeneous coupling microchemical reactor}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10519/}, abstract = {Understanding the coupling effects between homogeneous and heterogeneous (HH) chemistry is crucial in the field of high-temperature catalysis. An important example in this area is the catalytic oxidation of light hydrocarbons. Microreactor technology, with its precise control of fluid and temperature fields, improved reactant mixing, and large surface-to-volume ratio, is ideally suited for the study of such reaction systems. Most significantly, the pathways of homogeneous-heterogeneous coupling can be better understood as critical reactor dimensions are reduced into micrometer range, where diffusive flux starts to play an equally important role as convective transport. Here, we are reporting a novel modular microreactor system based on the use of silicon-based thin-film catalysts, which allows stable operation during thermal cycling up to 800 oC. Precise control and adjustment of the critical dimension, i.e. the height of reaction chamber, offers the ability to steer the relative importance of gas- and catalytic-phase chemistries due to transport of reactants between the gas phase and the catalytic walls. Additionally, a moveable thermocouple and quartz-glass capillary (connected to a mass spectrometer) allow the in-situ measurement of temperature and composition profiles in the reaction chamber. By combining these two capabilities, the system thus provides an efficient and sensitive way to investigate the interplay between gas phase and catalytic chemistries, and to evaluate the catalytic performance of thin-film catalysts. The reactor system was tested using oxidative coupling of methane (OCM) as model reaction. OCM has been studied intensively for many decades and offers a potentially highly efficient path for direct upgrading of methane to higher-value C2 products. The reaction is also well known to include catalytic steps in the generation of methyl radicals (as well as in undesired methane combustion) and homogeneous reaction steps in which methyl radicals are coupled to form the desired C2 products (C2H6 and C2H4). It thus forms an ideal test system for the above described microreactor system. A La-based thin-film catalyst was deposited onto a silicon chip via dip-coating, characterized, and inserted into the microreactor. The effect of major reactor operating parameters, such as temperature, flow rate, C:O feed ratio, and, most importantly, the surface-to-volume ratio were tested in detailed experimental studies using both reactor outlet and spatially-resolved concentration profiles. The results show a strong decrease of C2 production rates with decreasing microreactor channel height (680 ?m to 460 and 330 ?m), in agreement with the established OCM reaction mechanism. A 2D FEM-based numeric model was also carried out to provide supports and further insights into OCM system. While the Pt- and Rh-catalyzed oxidative dehydrogenation of ethane (ODH) is currently under investigation as the second model reaction, it is promising that this methodology can be transferred to study several other systems, e.g. hydrogen oxidation and catalytic partial oxidation of methane (CPOM) and propane (CPOP).} } @article{pittir29890, volume = {9}, month = {May}, title = {{\ensuremath{\alpha}}7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor-mediated neuroprotection against dopaminergic neuron loss in an MPTP mouse model via inhibition of astrocyte activation}, author = {Y Liu and J Hu and J Wu and C Zhu and Y Hui and Y Han and Z Huang and K Ellsworth and W Fan}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of Neuroinflammation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29890/}, abstract = {Background: Although evidence suggests that the prevalence of Parkinson's disease (PD) is lower in smokers than in non-smokers, the mechanisms of nicotine-induced neuroprotection remain unclear. Stimulation of the {\ensuremath{\alpha}}7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor ({\ensuremath{\alpha}}7-nAChR) seems to be a crucial mechanism underlying the anti-inflammatory potential of cholinergic agonists in immune cells, including astrocytes, and inhibition of astrocyte activation has been proposed as a novel strategy for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders such as PD. The objective of the present study was to determine whether nicotine-induced neuroprotection in the 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) mouse model occurs via {\ensuremath{\alpha}}7-nAChR-mediated inhibition of astrocytes.Methods: Both in vivo (MPTP) and in vitro (1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium ion (MPP+) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)) models of PD were used to investigate the role(s) of and possible mechanism(s) by which {\ensuremath{\alpha}}7-nAChRs protect against dopaminergic neuron loss. Multiple experimental approaches, including behavioral tests, immunochemistry, and stereology experiments, astrocyte cell cultures, reverse transcriptase PCR, laser scanning confocal microscopy, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-{\ensuremath{\alpha}} assays, and western blotting, were used to elucidate the mechanisms of the {\ensuremath{\alpha}}7-nAChR-mediated neuroprotection.Results: Systemic administration of nicotine alleviated MPTP-induced behavioral symptoms, improved motor coordination, and protected against dopaminergic neuron loss and the activation of astrocytes and microglia in the substantia nigra. The protective effects of nicotine were abolished by administration of the {\ensuremath{\alpha}}7-nAChR-selective antagonist methyllycaconitine (MLA). In primary cultured mouse astrocytes, pretreatment with nicotine suppressed MPP+-induced or LPS-induced astrocyte activation, as evidenced by both decreased production of TNF-{\ensuremath{\alpha}} and inhibition of extracellular regulated kinase1/2 (Erk1/2) and p38 activation in astrocytes, and these effects were also reversed by MLA.Conclusion: Taken together, our results suggest that {\ensuremath{\alpha}}7-nAChR-mediated inhibition of astrocyte activation is an important mechanism underlying the protective effects of nicotine. {\copyright} 2012 Liu et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir10924, month = {January}, title = {Estimating the Global Burden of Aflatoxin-Attributable Liver Cancer Risk}, author = {Yan Liu}, year = {2012}, keywords = {aflatoxin, liver cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, hepatitis B, risk assessment, meta-analysis, systematic review}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10924/}, abstract = {Background: Over 4 billion people worldwide are exposed to dietary aflatoxins, which can cause liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma, HCC) in humans independently and interact with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection to increase the cancer risk. However, the global burden of HCC from aflatoxin exposure remains unclear. Objectives: We sought to determine 1) the global burden of HCC attributable to aflatoxin exposure; 2) the population-attributable risk (PAR) of HCC from aflatoxin in high exposure areas; 3) the quantitative model of effects between aflatoxin exposure and HBV infection in increasing liver cancer risk. Methods: We first conducted a quantitative cancer risk assessment, for which we collected global data on foodborne aflatoxin levels, consumption of aflatoxin-contaminated foods, and HBV prevalence. Aflatoxin?s cancer potencies for HBV+ and HBV- individuals, and uncertainty in all variables, were considered in calculating the global burden of aflatoxin-related HCC. Then, we conducted a meta-analysis on the eligible studies identified by literature search. Summary odds ratios (ORs) of aflatoxin-related HCC with 95\% confidence intervals were calculated in HBV+ and HBV- individuals, as well as the general population. We calculated the PAR of aflatoxin-related HCC for each study as well as the combined studies, accounting for HBV status. Results: 25,200-155,000 HCC cases worldwide may be attributable to aflatoxin exposure. Most cases occur in sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, and China, where populations suffer from both high HBV prevalence and largely uncontrolled dietary aflatoxin. In these areas, the PAR of aflatoxin-related HCC with 95\% CI was estimated at 17\% (14-19\%) for overall population, and higher in HBV+ (21\%) than HBV- (8.8\%) populations. If the one study that contributed most to heterogeneity in the analysis is excluded, the summarized OR of HCC with 95\% CI is 73.0 (36.0-148.3) from the combined effects of aflatoxin and HBV, 11.3 (6.75-18.9) from HBV only, and 6.37 (3.74-10.86) from aflatoxin only. The PAR of aflatoxin-related HCC increases to 23\% (21-24\%). Public Health Significance: Aflatoxin may play a causative role in 4.6-28.2\% of all global HCC cases. In high exposure areas, aflatoxin exposure may multiplicatively interact with HBV to induce HCC and attribute to 14-19\% of liver cancer cases. } } @article{pittir18734, volume = {45}, number = {1}, month = {January}, author = {Z Liu and AM Celotto and G Romero and P Wipf and MJ Palladino}, title = {Genetically encoded redox sensor identifies the role of ROS in degenerative and mitochondrial disease pathogenesis}, journal = {Neurobiology of Disease}, pages = {362 -- 368}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18734/}, abstract = {Mitochondrial dysfunction plays an important role in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases, numerous other disease states and senescence. The ability to monitor reactive oxygen species (ROS) within tissues and over time in animal model systems is of significant research value. Recently, redox-sensitive fluorescent proteins have been developed. Transgenic flies expressing genetically encoded redox-sensitive GFPs (roGFPs) targeted to the mitochondria function as a useful in vivo assay of mitochondrial dysfunction and ROS. We have generated transgenic flies expressing a mitochondrial-targeted roGFP2, demonstrated its responsiveness to redox changes in cultured cells and in vivo and utilized this protein to discover elevated ROS as a contributor to pathogenesis in a characterized neurodegeneration mutant and in a model of mitochondrial encephalomyopathy. These studies identify the role of ROS in pathogenesis associated with mitochondrial disease and demonstrate the utility of genetically encoded redox sensors in Drosophila. {\copyright} 2011 Elsevier Inc.} } @unpublished{pittir11870, month = {June}, title = {"What A 'Thump' Means: Morton Feldman's Treatments of Samuel Beckett's Texts" and "This Report Must Be Signed By Your Parents" for orchestra}, author = {Kerrith Joy Quigley Livengood}, year = {2012}, keywords = {composition, collaboration, improvisation, radio, opera, drama, chamber music}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11870/}, abstract = {Samuel Beckett provided the text for Morton Feldman?s ?opera,? neither, in which the lack of characters, setting, definite plot or apparent musical development raises the question of whether such a piece can be considered ?dramatic.? Feldman later collaborated with Beckett again on a very different project ? composing the musical portion of a radio play, Words and Music, in which ?Music? is a character, interacting with the other characters through musical ?speeches.? While quite different in format from neither, there are not only stylistic similarities between the two works, but significant overlapping in techniques between Beckett and Feldman. Furthermore, the musical character in the radio play raises interesting questions about the possibility of reinterpreting drama in neither. In this paper I analyze both the Beckett/Feldman version of Words and Music and neither; I also compare techniques and philosophies of Beckett and Feldman to better understand the paradoxical nature of these collaborations. The orchestra piece This Report Must Be Signed By Your Parents represents a personal evolution of style over several years. Both movements attempt to explore the aural space of the orchestra, each employing a different strategy for doing so. The movements are subtitled with areas marked as ?needs improvement? on an old report card of mine from kindergarten ? an ironic gesture at the long-anticipated conclusion of my formal education. } } @article{pittir29914, volume = {3}, number = {2}, month = {May}, title = {Stem Cell Research \& Therapy in 2012}, author = {P Locke and RS Tuan and T O'Brien}, year = {2012}, journal = {Stem Cell Research and Therapy}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29914/} } @article{pittir12709, volume = {9}, number = {6}, month = {January}, author = {S Lockman and M Hughes and F Sawe and Y Zheng and J McIntyre and T Chipato and A Asmelash and M Rassool and S Kimaiyo and D Shaffer and M Hosseinipour and L Mohapi and F Ssali and M Chibowa and F Amod and E Halvas and E Hogg and B Alston-Smith and L Smith and R Schooley and J Mellors and J Currier}, title = {Nevirapine- versus lopinavir/ritonavir-based initial therapy for HIV-1 infection among women in africa: A randomized trial}, journal = {PLoS Medicine}, pages = {15 -- ?}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12709/}, abstract = {Background: Nevirapine (NVP) is widely used in antiretroviral treatment (ART) of HIV-1 globally. The primary objective of the AA5208/OCTANE trial was to compare the efficacy of NVP-based versus lopinavir/ritonavir (LPV/r)-based initial ART. Methods and Findings: In seven African countries (Botswana, Kenya, Malawi, South Africa, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe), 500 antiretroviral-na{\"i}ve HIV-infected women with CD4{\ensuremath{<}}200 cells/mm3 were enrolled into a two-arm randomized trial to initiate open-label ART with tenofovir (TDF)/emtricitabine (FTC) once/day plus either NVP (n = 249) or LPV/r (n = 251) twice/day, and followed for ?48 weeks. The primary endpoint was time from randomization to death or confirmed virologic failure ([VF]) (plasma HIV RNA{\ensuremath{<}}1 log10 below baseline 12 weeks after treatment initiation, or ?400 copies/ml at or after 24 weeks), with comparison between treatments based on hazard ratios (HRs) in intention-to-treat analysis. Equivalence of randomized treatments was defined as finding the 95\% CI for HR for virological failure or death in the range 0.5 to 2.0. Baseline characteristics were (median): age = 34 years, CD4 = 121 cells/mm3, HIV RNA = 5.2 log10copies/ml. Median follow-up = 118 weeks; 29 (6\%) women were lost to follow-up. 42 women (37 VFs, five deaths; 17\%) in the NVP and 50 (43 VFs, seven deaths; 20\%) in the LPV/r arm reached the primary endpoint (HR 0.85, 95\% CI 0.56-1.29). During initial assigned treatment, 14\% and 16\% of women receiving NVP and LPV/r experienced grade 3/4 signs/symptoms and 26\% and 22\% experienced grade 3/4 laboratory abnormalities. However, 35 (14\%) women discontinued NVP because of adverse events, most in the first 8 weeks, versus none for LPV/r (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.001). VF, death, or permanent treatment discontinuation occurred in 80 (32\%) of NVP and 54 (22\%) of LPV/r arms (HR = 1.7, 95\% CI 1.2-2.4), with the difference primarily due to more treatment discontinuation in the NVP arm. 13 (45\%) of 29 women tested in the NVP versus six (15\%) of 40 in the LPV/r arm had any drug resistance mutation at time of VF. Conclusions: Initial ART with NVP+TDF/FTC demonstrated equivalent virologic efficacy but higher rates of treatment discontinuation and new drug resistance compared with LPV/r+TDF/FTC in antiretroviral-na{\"i}ve women with CD4{\ensuremath{<}}200 cells/mm3. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00089505. {\copyright} 2012 Lockman et al.} } @article{pittir15893, volume = {7}, number = {8}, month = {August}, title = {Inhibition of EGFR-AKT axis results in the suppression of ovarian tumors in vitro and in preclinical mouse model}, author = {S Loganathan and PK Kandala and P Gupta and SK Srivastava}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15893/}, abstract = {Ovarian cancer is the leading cause of cancer related deaths in women. Genetic alterations including overexpression of EGFR play a crucial role in ovarian carcinogenesis. Here we evaluated the effect of phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC) in ovarian tumor cells in vitro and in vivo. Oral administration of 12 {\ensuremath{\mu}}mol PEITC resulted in drastically suppressing ovarian tumor growth in a preclinical mouse model. Our in vitro studies demonstrated that PEITC suppress the growth of SKOV-3, OVCAR-3 and TOV-21G human ovarian cancer cells by inducing apoptosis in a concentration-dependent manner. Growth inhibitory effects of PEITC were mediated by inhibition of EGFR and AKT, which are known to be overexpressed in ovarian tumors. PEITC treatment caused significant down regulation of constitutive protein levels as well as phosphorylation of EGFR at Tyr1068 in various ovarian cancer cells. In addition, PEITC treatment drastically reduced the phosphorylation of AKT which is downstream to EGFR and disrupted mTOR signaling. PEITC treatment also inhibited the kinase activity of AKT as observed by the down regulation of p-GSK in OVCAR-3 and TOV-21G cells. AKT overexpression or TGF treatment blocked PEITC induced apoptosis in ovarian cancer cells. These results suggest that PEITC targets EGFR/AKT pathway in our model. In conclusion, our study suggests that PEITC could be used alone or in combination with other therapeutic agents to treat ovarian cancer. {\copyright} 2012 Loganathan et al.} } @article{pittir22293, volume = {8}, number = {2}, month = {April}, author = {Thomas Joseph Lonergan}, title = {Key to the 2012 Presidential Election: The Philadelphia Suburbs}, journal = {Pitt Political Review}, pages = {28 -- 33}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22293/} } @unpublished{pittir12880, month = {September}, title = {DEVELOPMENTAL AND FAMILY-LEVEL DETERMINANTS OF SIBLING ADJUSTMENT TO CHILDHOOD CANCER }, author = {Kristin Long}, year = {2012}, keywords = {childhood cancer; sibling; family; psychosocial; distress; cumulative risk}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12880/}, abstract = {Each year, 14,000 children and adolescents are diagnosed with cancer in the United States (Howlader et al., 2012). Significant biomedical advances have led to survival rates exceeding 80\% (Jemal, et al., 2008). However, prolonged, complicated, and intensive treatment regimens often challenge and disrupt the entire family system, with effects extending to siblings. The present study examined the role of family risk factors in predicting distress among 209 siblings (ages 8-18) of children with cancer. Findings showed that greater sibling distress is independently associated with higher levels of sibling-reported problems with family functioning and parental psychological control, lower levels of sibling-reported maternal acceptance, and lower levels of paternal self-reported acceptance, with a similar trend for higher levels of parental posttraumatic stress. When examined as a function of sibling age, findings indicated that effects of sibling-reported maternal psychological control on sibling distress are stronger for older siblings, while effects of mother-reported problems with family roles on sibling distress are stronger for younger siblings. When the family risk factors were considered in combination, results supported a quadratic model in which the association between family risk and sibling distress was stronger at higher levels of cumulative family risk. Finally, hypotheses that a more positive family environment would buffer the negative influence of parent PTSS on sibling distress were largely unsupported. Together, findings support a family systems model of sibling adjustment to a brother?s or sister?s cancer diagnosis in which elevated sibling distress is predicted by higher levels of family risk factors, alone and in combination. } } @incollection{pittir16162, month = {January}, title = {Exploring trajectory-driven local geographic topics in foursquare}, author = {X Long and L Jin and J Joshi}, year = {2012}, pages = {927 -- 934}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16162/}, abstract = {The location based social networking services (LBSNSs) are becoming very popular today. In LBSNSs, such as Foursquare, users can explore their places of interests around their current locations, check in at these places to share their locations with their friends, etc. These check-ins contain rich information and imply human mobility patterns; thus, they can greatly facilitate mining and analysis of local geographic topics driven by users' trajectories. The local geographic topics indicate the potential and intrinsic relations among the locations in accordance with users' trajectories. These relations are useful for users in both location and friend recommendations. In this paper, we focus on exploring the local geographic topics through check-ins in Pittsburgh area in Foursquare. We use the Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) model to discover the local geographic topics from the checkins. We also compare the local geographic topics on weekdays with those at weekends. Our results show that LDA works well in finding the related places of interests. Copyright 2012 ACM.} } @article{pittir20843, volume = {20}, number = {3}, month = {January}, author = {A Lu and JD Proto and L Guo and Y Tang and M Lavasani and JS Tilstra and LJ Niedernhofer and B Wang and DC Guttridge and PD Robbins and J Huard}, title = {NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B negatively impacts the myogenic potential of muscle-derived stem cells}, journal = {Molecular Therapy}, pages = {661 -- 668}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20843/}, abstract = {Inhibition of the inhibitor of kappa B kinase (IKK)/nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B) pathway enhances muscle regeneration in injured and diseased skeletal muscle, but it is unclear exactly how this pathway contributes to the regeneration process. In this study, we examined the role of NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B in regulating the proliferation and differentiation of muscle-derived stem cells (MDSCs). MDSCs isolated from the skeletal muscles of p65/-mice (haploinsufficient for the p65 subunit of NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B) had enhanced proliferation and myogenic differentiation compared to MDSCs isolated from wild-type (wt) littermates. In addition, selective pharmacological inhibition of IKK?, an upstream activator of NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B, enhanced wt MDSC differentiation into myotubes in vitro. The p65/-MDSCs also displayed a higher muscle regeneration index than wt MDSCs following implantation into adult mice with muscular dystrophy. Additionally, using a muscle injury model, we observed that p65/-MDSC engraftments were associated with reduced inflammation and necrosis. These results suggest that inhibition of the IKK/NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B pathway represents an effective approach to improve the myogenic regenerative potential of MDSCs and possibly other adult stem cell populations. Moreover, our results suggest that the improved muscle regeneration observed following inhibition of IKK/NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B, is mediated, at least in part, through enhanced stem cell proliferation and myogenic potential. {\copyright} The American Society of Gene \& Cell Therapy.} } @unpublished{pittir11976, month = {May}, title = {ACCIDENTAL DISCOVERY OF INFORMATION ON THE USER-DEFINED SOCIAL WEB: A MIXED-METHOD STUDY}, author = {Chi-Jung Lu}, year = {2012}, keywords = {serendipity, information encountering, incidental information acquisition, serendipitous information acquisition}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11976/}, abstract = {Frequently interacting with other people or working in an information-rich environment can foster the accidental discovery of information (ADI) (Erdelez, 2000; McCay-Peet \& Toms, 2010). With the increasing adoption of social web technologies, online user-participation communities and user-generated content have provided users the potential for ADI. However, ADI on t he Social Web has been under-examined in the literature of library and information science. This gap needs to be addressed in order to get a more complete picture of human information behavior. The objectives of this dissertation were to develop the propositions that describe and explain ADI behaviors among individual users of web-based social tools. Two research questions were addressed: 1) What are the characteristics of ADI on the Social Web? 2) What are the users? perceptions about ADI on the Social Web? This dissertation used a sequential mixed-method research design involving three data collection methods: a survey, and follow-up logs, and interviews. The sample includes 45 participants in an academic environment. Among the survey participants, a purposeful sample of 13 individuals completed follow-up incident logs and in-depth interviews. Qualitative analysis with Stata 12/MP (StataCorp, 2011) and qualitative analysis with ATLAS.ti v.6 (http://www.atlasti.com/) were performed on the data. The results presented include descriptive statistics and thematic findings. The important findings include: 1) ADI on the Social Web has many unique characteristics that can be identified within the six elements of user, motivation, context, information behavior, information, and information need; 2) participating users considered the Social Web as a useful environment for ADI, and they even used some self-developed strategies to facilitate ADI; 3) prior experience and anticipation of ADI can be the motivations to use particular social tools; 4) social tools can serve as information grounds where users gather together and form relations, precipitating conditions which foster ADI; 5) users considered ADI on the Social Web as supplementary to their overall information acquisition; the unexpected information that they found was most beneficial for addressing long-term information needs. The findings of this study expand on existing information behavior theories and offer practical insights for the design of information services and library instruction.} } @article{pittir22278, volume = {30}, number = {2}, month = {June}, title = {COMMERCIAL SPEECH RESTRICTION AND LEGAL BROTHELS: IS THERE A ?VICE? EXCEPTION TO CENTRAL HUDSON?S INTERMEDIATE SCRUTINY?}, author = {Brendan Lucas}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of Law and Commerce}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22278/} } @unpublished{pittir13499, month = {September}, title = {TRANSITIVE AND INTRANSITIVE CONSTRUCTIONS IN JAPANESE AND ENGLISH: A PSYCHOLINGUISTIC STUDY}, author = {Pei Sui Luk}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Agent, causality, priming, rating}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13499/}, abstract = {Transitivity has been extensively researched from a semantic point of view (e.g., Hopper \& Thompson, 1980). Although little has been said about a prototypical intransitive construction, it has been suggested that verbs that denote actions with an agent and a patient/theme cannot be intransitive (e.g., Guerssel, 1985). However, it has been observed that some languages, including Japanese, have intransitive verbs for actions that clearly involve an animate agent and a patient/theme, such as ?arresting? (e.g., Pardeshi, 2008). This dissertation thus attempts to understand how causality is differentially interpreted from transitive and intransitive constructions, including non-prototypical intransitive verbs, by rating and priming experiments conducted in both English and Japanese. In Experiment 1, participants (native English and Japanese speakers, 20 each) were asked to read sentence pairs with transitive and intransitive verbs in their native language and rate how likely they thought it was that the animate entity mentioned in the sentence pair was responsible for the event. The results show that in Japanese, the sentences with agent-implying intransitive verbs were rated closer to those with transitive verbs and significantly higher than non-agent-implying intransitive verbs. In Experiment 2, participants (42 native English speakers and 46 native Japanese speakers) read the equivalent sentence pairs and answered a question that asked whether the instrument mentioned in the sentences could cause the event to happen. It was hypothesized that participants would respond faster to the transitive sentence than the intransitive sentences, because it was assumed that the transitive sentences would lead the participants to evoke an agent and thus an instrument whereas the intransitive sentences would not. The results, however, were not consistent with the hypotheses in that the agent-implying verb pairs (both transitive and intransitive) were responded to significantly slower than the non-agent-implying verb pairs. The results are explained through (1) the preference to focus on sub-event (change of state) rather than the super-event (causation) in Japanese, and (2) the telicity and punctuality of the agent-implying verbs.} } @unpublished{pittir12026, month = {May}, title = {Expanding International Education in Indonesia: An Analytical Map of Government and NGO Construction of Education Policy}, author = {Sharon Lumbanraja}, year = {2012}, keywords = {international education, map, NGO, government, Indonesia, globalization, private sector, basic education}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12026/}, abstract = {This research is aimed to analyze existing international education policies in Indonesia. I specifically conducted a comparative analysis on policies or regulations that a local non-governmental organization, the Putera Sampoerna Foundation (PSF), and the Ministry of Education (MONE) are constructing for their k-12 international education programs. I analyzed PSF and MONE public official documents on international education policies, including MONE legal documents and decrees on education and PSF official guidebook on the organization's educational projects. I compared and contrasted the two actors' frameworks on the type of identity and responsibility that international education should form in students. Using a qualitative research method of space mapping, I located the two actors' position within the three major international education frameworks: 1) neoliberal education, 2) human rights education and 3) environmental education. Through this analysis, I was able to see where the two actors stand in relation to one another, in terms of their goal for international education. Results from this study are expected to facilitate the development of quality international education practices in Indonesia by promoting cooperation between the national government and local organization in providing this education.} } @article{pittir14013, volume = {7}, number = {1}, month = {January}, title = {Active and passive immunization protects against lethal, extreme drug resistant-Acinetobacter baumannii infection}, author = {G Luo and L Lin and AS Ibrahim and B Baquir and P Pantapalangkoor and RA Bonomo and Y Doi and MD Adams and TA Russo and B Spellberg}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14013/}, abstract = {Extreme-drug-resistant (XDR) Acinetobacter baumannii is a rapidly emerging pathogen causing infections with unacceptably high mortality rates due to inadequate available treatment. New methods to prevent and treat such infections are a critical unmet medical need. To conduct a rational vaccine discovery program, OmpA was identified as the primary target of humoral immune response after intravenous infection by A. baumannii in mice. OmpA was {\ensuremath{>}}99\% conserved at the amino acid level across clinical isolates harvested between 1951 and 2009 from cerebrospinal fluid, blood, lung, and wound infections, including carbapenem-resistant isolates, and was ?89\% conserved among other sequenced strains, but had minimal homology to the human proteome. Vaccination of diabetic mice with recombinant OmpA (rOmpA) with aluminum hydroxide adjuvant markedly improved survival and reduced tissue bacterial burden in mice infected intravenously. Vaccination induced high titers of anti-OmpA antibodies, the levels of which correlated with survival in mice. Passive transfer with immune sera recapitulated protection. Immune sera did not enhance complement-mediated killing but did enhance opsonophagocytic killing of A. baumannii. These results define active and passive immunization strategies to prevent and treat highly lethal, XDR A. baumannii infections. {\copyright} 2012 Luo et al.} } @inproceedings{pittir19110, month = {December}, title = {A comparison of popular fertility awareness methods to a DBN model of the woman's monthly cycle}, author = {A Lupi{\'n}ska-Dubicka and MJ Druzdzel}, year = {2012}, pages = {219 -- 226}, journal = {Proceedings of the 6th European Workshop on Probabilistic Graphical Models, PGM 2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19110/}, abstract = {Fertility Awareness Methods are effective, safe, and low-cost techniques for identifying the fertile days of a menstrual cycle. In this paper, we compare the effectiveness of predicting the fertile days by a Dynamic Bayesian Network model of the monthly cycle to 11 existing Fertility Awareness Methods. We base our comparison on a real data set of 7,017 cycles collected by 881 women. We demonstrate that the DBN model is more accurate than the best modern Fertility Awareness Methods, based on the observation of mucus, marking reasonably high percentage of days of the cycle as infertile. We argue that the DBN approach offers other advantages, such as predicting the ovulation day and being able to adjust its predictions to each woman's individual cycle.} } @article{pittir23060, volume = {2}, number = {9}, month = {September}, author = {J Lutkenhaus and FA Farro and D George and K Ohlinger and H Zhang and Z Poole and KP Chen and Y Lin}, title = {Holographic fabrication of 3D photonic crystals using silicon based reflective optics element}, journal = {Optical Materials Express}, pages = {1236 -- 1241}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/23060/}, abstract = {We present a silicon based single optical element that is able to automatically generate desired laser beam polarizations and intensities for the holographic fabrication of woodpile-type photonic crystal templates. A polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) mold based reflective optics element is fabricated for the generation of five-beam interferences where four beams are arranged four-fold symmetrically around a central beam. Silicon chips in the inner surfaces of the mold are used to reflect the circularly or elliptically polarized beam into four side beams that are linearly polarized with electric fields normal to the incident plane, and reduce their laser intensities. Photonic crystal templates are holographically fabricated in a photosensitive polymer through this silicon-on-PDMS based single optical element and single beam based configuration. {\copyright} 2012 Optical Society of America.} } @unpublished{pittir13740, month = {September}, title = {Intercultural Composition: An Analysis of the First Movement of Justinian Tamusuza's Mu Kkubo Ery'Omusaalaba for String Quartet and Baakisimba Ne'biggu (an Original Chamber Composition)}, author = {Charles Lwanga}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Intercultural composition, African Art Music, Intercultural Music Analysis, Creative Musicology, }, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13740/}, abstract = {Mu Kkubo Ery?Omusaalaba (1993) by Ugandan composer Justinian Tamusuza is an important representative of an intercultural composition in which the style of the piece embraces the amalgamation of Western and non-Western musical idioms. The particular non-Western musical idioms that this piece employs include Kiganda compositional styles and processes through devices such as the simulation of Kiganda musical instruments and the use of traditional Kiganda thematic materials, dialogue passages in what is commonly known as ?call and response,? hemiola, limited pitch range and material, and repetitive rhythmic and polyrhythmic block textures to give prominence to rhythm as a significant component in defining structure. It is my thesis that a holistic examination of these components will reveal the underlying structure of the piece. The second part of this dissertation, Baakisimba N?ebiggu, is a composition for violin, cello, percussion and prepared piano in which I fused Kiganda musical processes and contemporary Western musical idioms. The first and third sections of the piece employ a pentachordal pitch class set reminiscent of the Kiganda musical tradition. In the second section, a twelve-tone row is employed repetitively in order to contextualize a Western-influenced tonal arrangement with a Kiganda sound. The row is not transposed, but rather repeated with various musical transformations in register, dynamics, tone color, and speed (expansions and contractions), as well as motivic fragmentation, and superimposition of the row in multiple voices and at various intervals. Similar to Tamusuza?s technique, Baakisimba N?ebiggu is a culmination of my musical encounters, the result of which is a comparable blending of Kiganda stylistic idioms and processes with Western compositional techniques in order to create a unique aesthetic product. Nevertheless, there are many points of departure from Tamusuza?s approach, especially when it comes to instrumentation, stylistic simulations, pitch and harmonic language, as well as the overall structural and compositional strategies of the piece. } } @incollection{pittir13166, volume = {7138 L}, month = {March}, title = {Towards adaptive recruitment and engagement mechanisms in social systems}, author = {C L{\'o}pez and P Brusilovsky}, year = {2012}, pages = {382 -- 396}, journal = {Lecture Notes in Computer Science (including subseries Lecture Notes in Artificial Intelligence and Lecture Notes in Bioinformatics)}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13166/}, abstract = {Although successful online communities have engaged thousands of users, designers still struggle to recruit newcomers and increase current contribution rates. Related work on encouraging contributions has drawn from Social Psychology, Sociology and Economics theories. Engagement mechanisms embed the principles of these theories, and experimental studies evaluate the impact of different mechanisms on the contribution rates. Significant differences among alternative engagement mechanisms have been found, however, the results are sometimes contradictory for different groups of users. Our hypothesis is that the effectiveness of engagement mechanisms may depend on users' characteristics, and not solely on the mechanism itself. To start exploring this hypothesis, we performed a study to evaluate the impact of recruitment and engagement messages on different users' cohorts. Levels of current participation rates and demographic data were analyzed in order to explain differences in the impact of these engagement strategies. {\copyright} 2012 Springer-Verlag.} } @inproceedings{pittir19129, month = {December}, title = {Personalized incremental users' engagement: Driving contributions one step forward}, author = {C L{\'o}pez and R Farzan and P Brusilovsky}, year = {2012}, pages = {189 -- 197}, journal = {GROUP'12 - Proceedings of the ACM 2012 International Conference on Support Group Work}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19129/}, abstract = {Successful contributors in online communities go through a lifecycle of membership status starting from the periphery and moving to the core over time. We argue that a personalized incremental engagement strategy can mobilize a larger proportion of members through this process. This paper presents our approach to identify a progression of contributions in an online community and the design of personalized incremental engagement strategy which will drive users' contributions one step forward. The results of our field study show that the personalized incremental approach significantly boosts contributions in an online community for academic conferences. Copyright {\copyright} 2012 by the Association for Computing Machinery, Inc. (ACM).} } @inproceedings{pittir13169, booktitle = {Design, Influence, and Social Technologies (DIST) Workshop}, title = {Designing Adaptive Engagement Approaches for Audience-bounded Online Communities}, author = {Claudia L{\'o}pez and Peter Brusilovsky}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13169/}, abstract = {Audience-bounded online communities require innovative user engagement techniques. Without special efforts focus- ing on engagement, the contribution volume will likely to be insufficient to maintain a sustainable community-driven sys- tem. This paper presents an adaptive approach for user en- gagement that aims to apply alternative engagement strate- gies to users with different behavior in the online community. We report the results of the first experiments testing the fea- sibility of such approach. We discuss further design options that can be explored and the implications of the approach.} } @incollection{pittir19432, booktitle = {Proceedings of the 2013 conference on Computer supported cooperative work}, title = {Consequences of Content Diversity for Online Public Spaces for Local Communities}, author = {Claudia L{\'o}pez and Brian S Butler}, address = {New York}, publisher = {ACM}, year = {2012}, pages = {673 -- 682}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19432/}, abstract = {While there is significant potential for social technologies to strengthen local communities, creating viable online spaces for them remains difficult. Maintaining a reliable content stream is challenging for local communities with their bounded emphases and limited population of potential contributors. Some systems focus on specific information types (e.g. restaurant, events). Others allow many different information types. This paper reports our findings about the consequences of content diversity from a study of neighborhood-oriented Facebook groups. The findings raise questions about the viability of designs for local online communities that focus narrowly on single topics, goals, and audiences.} } @unpublished{pittir13904, month = {September}, title = {NOVEL ALGORITHMS AND TOOLS FOR LIGAND-BASED DRUG DESIGN}, author = {CHAO MA}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Computer-aided Drug Design, Adaboost, LiCABEDS, GPU, Virtual Screening, Compound Acquisition, Ligand Selectivity, QSAR}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13904/}, abstract = {Computer-aided drug design (CADD) has become an indispensible component in modern drug discovery projects. The prediction of physicochemical properties and pharmacological properties of candidate compounds effectively increases the probability for drug candidates to pass latter phases of clinic trials. Ligand-based virtual screening exhibits advantages over structure-based drug design, in terms of its wide applicability and high computational efficiency. The established chemical repositories and reported bioassays form a gigantic knowledgebase to derive quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) and structure-property relationship (QSPR). In addition, the rapid advance of machine learning techniques suggests new solutions for data-mining huge compound databases. In this thesis, a novel ligand classification algorithm, Ligand Classifier of Adaptively Boosting Ensemble Decision Stumps (LiCABEDS), was reported for the prediction of diverse categorical pharmacological properties. LiCABEDS was successfully applied to model 5-HT1A ligand functionality, ligand selectivity of cannabinoid receptor subtypes, and blood-brain-barrier (BBB) passage. LiCABEDS was implemented and integrated with graphical user interface, data import/export, automated model training/ prediction, and project management. Besides, a non-linear ligand classifier was proposed, using a novel Topomer kernel function in support vector machine. With the emphasis on green high-performance computing, graphics processing units are alternative platforms for computationally expensive tasks. A novel GPU algorithm was designed and implemented in order to accelerate the calculation of chemical similarities with dense-format molecular fingerprints. Finally, a compound acquisition algorithm was reported to construct structurally diverse screening library in order to enhance hit rates in high-throughput screening.} } @unpublished{pittir13322, month = {September}, title = {Development of a New Class of Microrna Controlled OHSV Vectors for Treatment of Glioblastoma}, author = {LUCIA MAZZACURATI}, year = {2012}, keywords = {HSV-1, Glioblastoma, MiRNA}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13322/}, abstract = {Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) is a highly aggressive brain tumor for which there is no treatment. Oncolytic Viruses (OVs) are attenuated tumor-selective viruses designed to replicate in and kill tumor cells without affecting normal tissue. Herpes Simplex Virus type-1 derived oncolytic vectors (oHSV-1) are a promising and safe alternative to current GBM therapies, but the deletions that render these oHSV-1 incapable of replicating in normal tissue also compromise their lytic activity in tumor cells. Consequently, these viruses fail to effectively eradicate the tumor. In this study, I developed a new oHSV-1, named ICP4-miR124t, whose selective replication in GBM cells does not rely on defective genes, but rather is mediated by micro (mi)RNAs differentially expressed between normal tissue and GBM. MiRNAs recognize complementary target sequences in mRNAs resulting in repression of the mRNA. MiR124 is one of the most abundant miRNAs in developing and mature neurons, but is absent in GBM since its presence is incompatible with the tumor phenotype and viability. After introducing four tandem copies of the miR124 target sequence in the 3?UTR of the HSV-1 essential ICP4 gene, I observed robust replication of the resulting ICP4-miR124t oHSV-1 in primary glioblastoma cells, while viral growth was highly impaired in the same cells upon induction of mir124. Toxicity tests involving intracranial injection of immunocompetent and immunodeficient mice showed a dramatic reduction in vector toxicity compared to unregulated control virus. Moreover, ICP4-miR124t-injected animals showed a loss of viral DNA in the brain over time, whereas an increase was observed in control virus injected animals. In conclusion the ICP4-miR124t oHSV-1 developed in this study is promising for GBM treatment because it is capable of killing miR124-negative tumor cells as efficiently as wild-type HSV-1, while lacking toxicity for normal brain. These results are of major Public Health importance not only as a potentially more effective alternative to current inefficient GBM treatments, but also as a new paradigm to treat other kinds of tumors by taking advantage of the differential miRNA expression between tumor and normal tissue. } } @article{pittir17281, volume = {116}, number = {3}, month = {January}, author = {L Ma and Z Hong and B Sharma and S Asher}, title = {UV resonance Raman studies of the NaClO{\ensuremath{<}}inf{\ensuremath{>}}4{\ensuremath{<}}/inf{\ensuremath{>}} dependence of poly-l-lysine Conformation and hydrogen exchange kinetics}, journal = {Journal of Physical Chemistry B}, pages = {1134 -- 1142}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17281/}, abstract = {We used 204 nm excitation UV Resonance Raman (UVRR) spectroscopy to examine the effects of NaClO4 on the conformation of poly-l-lysine (PLL). The presence of NaClO4 induces the formation of {\ensuremath{\alpha}}-helix, {\ensuremath{\pi}}-helix/bulge, and turn conformations. The dependence of the AmIII 3 frequency on the peptide {\ensuremath{\psi}} Ramachandran angle allows us to experimentally determine the conformational population distributions and the energy landscape of PLL along the Ramachandran {\ensuremath{\psi}} angle. We also used UVRR to measure the NaClO4 concentration dependence of PLL amide hydrogen exchange kinetics. Exchange rates were determined by fitting the D2O exchanging PLL UVRR AmII? band time evolution. Hydrogen exchange is slowed at high NaClO4 concentrations. The PLL AmII? band exchange kinetics at 0.0, 0.2, and 0.35 M NaClO4 can be fit by single exponentials, but the AmII? band kinetics of PLL at 0.8 M NaClO 4 requires a double exponential fit. The exchange rates for the extended conformations were monitored by measuring the C{\ensuremath{\alpha}}-H band kinetics. These kinetics are identical to those of the AmII? band until 0.8 M NaClO4 whereupon the extended conformation exchange becomes clearly faster than that of the {\ensuremath{\alpha}}-helix-like conformations. Our results indicate that ClO4- binds to the PLL backbone to protect it from OH- exchange catalysis. In addition, ClO 4- binding also slows the conformational exchange between the extended and {\ensuremath{\alpha}}-helix-like conformations, probably by increasing the activation barriers for conformational interchanges. {\copyright} 2011 American Chemical Society.} } @unpublished{pittir10669, month = {February}, title = {UV RESONANCE RAMAN STUDY OF SOLUTION ENVIRONMENT EFFECT ON POLY-L-LYSINE CONFORMATION AND RESOLUTION ENHANCEMENT MECHANISM OF TWO DIMENSIONAL CORRELATION SPECTROSCOPY}, author = {Lu Ma}, year = {2012}, keywords = {UV resonance Raman, protein folding, poly-L-lysine, two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10669/}, abstract = {How proteins fold into compact, highly ordered and functional three-dimensional structures continues to challenge the modern science. UV resonance Raman (UVRR) is one of the advanced technologies used to study protein folding problem. In this thesis, by using UVRR spectroscopy, we examined solution environment effect on poly-L-lysine (PLL) conformation in great detail. We investigated the sidechain electrostatic control of PLL conformation by examining the PLL conformational dependence on pH, the presence of NaCl and NaClO4, and temperature. At pH value below 7, PLL adopts the extended polyproline II (PPII) and 2.51-helix conformations. Increasing pH and the addition of NaClO4 induces PLL to form a high content of {\ensuremath{\alpha}}-helix-like conformations ({\ensuremath{\alpha}}-helix, {\ensuremath{\pi}}-bulge/helix and turn structures) by decreasing the sidechain electrostatic repulsion. In contrast to NaClO4, we found that high concentrations of NaCl has negligible impact on the PLL conformation at low pH. Utilizing UVRR, we also quantitatively tracked temperature and NaClO4 concentration induced conformation changes of PLL. We experimentally determined the conformational population distributions and the energy landscape of PLL along the Ramachandran {\ensuremath{\Psi}} angle under different solution conditions. We measured the NaClO4 concentration dependence of PLL amide hydrogen exchange kinetics at pH 2.8 using UVRR spectroscopy. We found NaClO4 slows the hydrogen exchange rates for the extended conformations and conformational exchange rates between the extended and {\ensuremath{\alpha}}-helix-like conformations. We proposed a NaClO4 protection mechanism. This thesis also includes the study of the resolution enhancement mechanism of generalized two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy (2D COS). Despite extensive study, the origin of the 2D COS spectral patterns for overlapping bands and the resolution enhancement mechanisms are not completely understood. By using the simulation method, we elucidated the origin of 2D COS spectral features and identified the conditions to resolve overlapping bands. } } @unpublished{pittir13931, month = {August}, title = {Using Graph Enumeration and Topography Reasoning to Analyze Blocking in WDM Networks Without Wavelength Interchange}, school = {University of Pittsburgh}, author = {Xiao Ma}, publisher = {University of Pittsburgh}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13931/}, abstract = {This thesis presents techniques and analysis results which look promising for analyzing blocking in WDM networks without wavelength interchange (WLI). The approach includes two parts{--}graph enumeration and blocking analysis for graphs, which are linked by a theorem [1] that reduces blocking analysis for an entire WDM system to the blocking analysis of the backbone topography and link capacity. Graph enumeration utilizes Burnside?s Theorem and MATLAB computation. Blocking analysis for graphs are implemented in MATLAB. Some general phenomena are observed from the analysis result of graphs with four, five, and six nodes. Node resilience is also discussed.} } @article{pittir16007, volume = {114}, number = {4}, month = {April}, author = {JJ Maas and RB De Wilde and LP Aarts and MR Pinsky and JR Jansen}, title = {Determination of vascular waterfall phenomenon by bedside measurement of mean systemic filling pressure and critical closing pressure in the intensive care unit}, journal = {Anesthesia and Analgesia}, pages = {803 -- 810}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16007/}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Mean systemic filling pressure (Pmsf) can be determined at the bedside by measuring central venous pressure (Pcv) and cardiac output (CO) during inspiratory hold maneuvers. Critical closing pressure (Pcc) can be determined using the same method measuring arterial pressure (Pa) and CO. If Pcc {\ensuremath{>}} Pmsf, there is then a vascular waterfall. In this study, we assessed the existence of a waterfall and its implications for the calculation of vascular resistances by determining Pmsf and Pcc at the bedside. METHODS: In 10 mechanically ventilated postcardiac surgery patients, inspiratory hold maneuvers were performed, transiently increasing Pcv and decreasing Pa and CO to 4 different steady-state levels. For each patient, values of Pcv and CO were plotted in a venous return curve to determine Pmsf. Similarly, Pcc was determined with a ventricular output curve plotted for Pa and CO. Measurements were performed in each patient before and after volume expansion with 0.5 L colloid, and vascular resistances were calculated. RESULTS: For every patient, the relationship between the 4 measurements of Pcv and CO and of Pa and CO was linear. Baseline Pmsf was 18.7 {$\pm$} 4.0 mm Hg (mean {$\pm$} SD) and differed significantly from Pcc 45.5 {$\pm$} 11.1 mm Hg (P {\ensuremath{<}} 0.0001). The difference of Pcc and Pmsf was 26.8 {$\pm$} 10.7 mm Hg, indicating the presence of a systemic vascular waterfall. Volume expansion increased Pmsf (26.3 {$\pm$} 3.2 mm Hg), Pcc (51.5 {$\pm$} 9.0 mm Hg), and CO (5.5 {$\pm$} 1.8 to 6.8 {$\pm$} 1.8 L ? min). Arterial (upstream of Pcc) and venous (downstream of Pmsf) vascular resistance were 8.27 {$\pm$} 4.45 and 2.75 {$\pm$} 1.23 mm Hg ? min ? L; the sum of both (11.01 mm Hg ? min ? L) was significantly different from total systemic vascular resistance (16.56 {$\pm$} 8.57 mm Hg ? min ? L; P = 0.005). Arterial resistance was related to total resistance. CONCLUSIONS: Vascular pressure gradients in cardiac surgery patients suggest the presence of a vascular waterfall phenomenon, which is not affected by CO. Thus, measures of total systemic vascular resistance may become irrelevant in assessing systemic vasomotor tone. Copyright {\copyright} 2012 International Anesthesia Research Society.} } @article{pittir16012, volume = {115}, number = {4}, month = {October}, author = {JJ Maas and MR Pinsky and LP Aarts and JR Jansen}, title = {Bedside assessment of total systemic vascular compliance, stressed volume, and cardiac function curves in intensive care unit patients}, journal = {Anesthesia and Analgesia}, pages = {880 -- 887}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16012/}, abstract = {Background: Mean systemic filling pressure (Pmsf) can be measured at the bedside with minimally invasive monitoring in ventilator-dependent patients using inspiratory hold maneuvers (Pmsfhold) as the zero flow intercept of cardiac output (CO) to central venous pressure (CVP) relation. We compared Pmsfhold with arm vascular equilibrium pressure during vascular occlusion (Pmsfarm) and their ability to assess systemic vascular compliance (Csys) and stressed volume by intravascular fluid administration. Methods: In mechanically ventilated postoperative cardiac surgery patients, inspiratory holds at varying airway pressures and arm stop-flow maneuvers were performed during normovolemia and after each of 10 sequential 50-mL bolus colloid infusions. We measured CVP, Pmsfarm, stroke volume, and CO during fluid administration steps to construct CVP to CO (cardiac function) curves and {\ensuremath{\Delta}}volume/{\ensuremath{\Delta}}Pmsf (compliance) curves. Pmsfhold was measured before and after fluid administration. Stressed volume was determined by extrapolating the Pmsf-volume curve to zero pressure intercept. Results: Fifteen patients were included. Pmsfhold and Pmsf arm were closely correlated. Csys was linear (64.3 {$\pm$} 32.7 mL ? mm Hg, 0.97 {$\pm$} 0.49 mL ? mm Hg ? kg predicted body weight). Stressed volume was estimated to be 1265 {$\pm$} 541 mL (28.5\% {$\pm$} 15\% predicted total blood volume). Cardiac function curves of patients with an increase of {\ensuremath{>}}12\% to 500 mL volume extension (volume responsive) were steep, whereas the cardiac function curves of the remaining patients were flat. Conclusions: Csys, stressed volume, and cardiac function curves can be determined at the bedside and can be used to characterize patients' hemodynamic status. Copyright {\copyright} 2012 International Anesthesia Research Society.} } @unpublished{pittir13220, month = {September}, title = {Defining the Pulmonary Disease and Disability from Lung Dysfunction in Cutis Laxa}, author = {Meghan Kelly Mac Neal}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Cutis Laxa, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Genetic Studies}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13220/}, abstract = {Cutis laxa is a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by loose, lax, and inelastic skin. Other complications include lung, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, and genitourinary disease. Cutis laxa (CL) can be congenital or acquired, with the congenital forms resulting from mutations in numerous genes. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major contributor to morbidity and mortality in CL, making it a subject of public health importance. This purpose of this analysis is to determine quantitative differences between CL onset, congenital and acquired, and CL diagnosis, CL versus CL carrier in regard to pulmonary function and disability that results from lung dysfunction. An odds ratio determined that the cutis population has an increased risk for COPD and t-test analysis determined that COPD severity was the same between congenital and acquired subjects, but significantly different between CL and CL carriers. Multiple people with a previous asthma diagnosis were determined to actually have COPD. Additionally, the SGRQ total score was found to be highly correlated with FEV1/FVC and CT visual emphysema score. Further studies are warranted to more clearly determine genotype-phenotype correlations and assess longitudinal changes.} } @article{pittir17450, volume = {63}, number = {1}, month = {March}, author = {E MacHery and K Cohen}, title = {An evidence-based study of the evolutionary behavioral sciences}, journal = {British Journal for the Philosophy of Science}, pages = {177 -- 226}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17450/}, abstract = {The disagreement between philosophers about the scientific worth of the evolutionary behavioral sciences (evolutionary psychology, human behavioral ecology, etc.) is in part due to the fact that critics and advocates of these sciences characterize them very differently. In this article, by analyzing quantitatively the citations made in the articles published in Evolution \& Human Behavior between January 2000 and December 2002, we provide some evidence that undermines the characterization of the evolutionary behavioral sciences put forward by their critics. {\copyright} The Author 2011. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of British Society for the Philosophy of Science. All rights reserved.} } @article{pittir29826, volume = {1}, number = {1}, month = {September}, title = {Immunoregulatory properties of rapamycin-conditioned monocyte-derived dendritic cells and their role in transplantation}, author = {C Macedo and H Turquist and D Metes and AW Thomson}, year = {2012}, journal = {Transplantation Research}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29826/}, abstract = {In efforts to minimize the chronic administration of immunosuppression (IS) drugs in transplantation and autoimmune disease, various cell-based tolerogenic therapies, including the use of regulatory or tolerogenic dendritic cells (tolDC) have been developed. These DC-based therapies aim to harness the inherent immunoregulatory potential of these professional antigen-presenting cells. In this short review, we describe both the demonstrated tolerogenic properties, and current limitations of rapamycin-conditioned DC (RAPA-DC). RAPA-DC are generated through inhibition of the integrative kinase mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) by the immunosuppressive macrolide rapamycin during propagation of monocyte-derived DC. Consistent with the characteristics of tolDC, murine RAPA-DC display resistance to phenotypic maturation induced by pro-inflammatory stimuli; exhibit the ability to migrate to secondary lymphoid tissue (important for 'cross-presentation' of antigen to T cells), and enrich for naturally-occurring CD4{\ensuremath{<}}sup{\ensuremath{>}}+{\ensuremath{<}}/sup{\ensuremath{>}} regulatory T cells. In rodent models, delivery of recipient-derived RAPA-DC pulsed with donor antigen prior to organ transplantation can prolong allogeneic heart-graft survival indefinitely, especially when combined with a short course of IS. These encouraging data support ongoing efforts to develop RAPA-DC for clinical testing. When compared to murine RAPA-DC however, human RAPA-DC have proven only partially resistant to maturation triggered by pro-inflammatory cytokines, and display heterogeneity in their impact on effector T-cell expansion and function. In total, the evidence suggests the need for more in-depth studies to better understand the mechanisms by which mTOR controls human DC function. These studies may facilitate the development of RAPA-DC therapy alone or together with agents that preserve/enhance their tolerogenic properties as clinical immunoregulatory vectors. {\copyright} 2012 Macedo et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir17035, month = {December}, title = {Health Literacy and Clinical Preventive Behavior Among Older African Americans in Allegheny County}, school = {University of Pittsburgh}, author = {Kristin Macfarlane}, publisher = {University of Pittsburgh}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17035/}, abstract = {The public health relevance of this essay is to contribute to the body of research that seeks to elucidate the causal link between health literacy and health outcomes. This study also addresses the national issue of low clinical preventive services utilization among older adults. Low functional health literacy is associated with negative health outcomes, but the causal link as to why this is the case is not well understood. Clinical preventive service use has been identified as a possible mechanism, but there is a dearth of research concerning this topic. For older adults, who face higher risk for concomitant illnesses and higher risk for disability, clinical preventive service use is a key component of retaining health and functional independence. These services, however, are highly underutilized by older adults. This study utilizes secondary, cross-sectional baseline data collected from the Boosting Minority Involvement (BMI) study, a community-based cohort study intended to increase minority participation in research. Participants included ninety-one African American men and women aged 60 years and older, living in low-income community settings. Health literacy was measured with the Short Test of Functional Health Literacy in Adults (S-TOFHLA) and clinical preventive behavior was assessed as a percentage of clinical tests in which the participant engaged as identified by the Prevention in Practice Report:?10 Keys? of Healthy Aging survey. Multivariate linear regression analysis showed that health literacy did not significantly predict percent clinical preventive behavior, controlling for covariates. The number of comorbidites one experienced emerged as the only significant predictor of clinical preventive behavior. A Spearman?s Rho correlation revealed that functional health literacy and number of comorbidities were positively associated with percent clinical preventive behavior. Comorbidity index was not related to one?s level of health literacy. While this study is a good first step, further research is necessary to elucidate the relationship between functional health literacy and clinical preventive behavior in an effort to establish a tenable avenue for intervention to improve health outcomes.} } @incollection{pittir12659, volume = {21}, number = {2}, month = {February}, author = {Peter Machamer}, title = {An Introduction to the Philosophy of Science}, journal = {SCIENCE \& EDUCATION}, pages = {287 -- 288}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12659/} } @article{pittir17455, volume = {27}, number = {1}, month = {April}, author = {E Machery}, title = {Expertise and intuitions about reference}, journal = {Theoria-Revista De Teoria Historia Y Fundamentos De La Ciencia}, pages = {37 -- 54}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17455/}, abstract = {Many philosophers hold that experts' semantic intuitions are more reliable and provide better evidence than lay people's intuitions - a thesis commonly called "the Expertise Defense." Focusing on the intuitions about the reference of proper names, this article critically assesses the Expertise Defense.} } @article{pittir17448, volume = {27}, number = {2}, month = {July}, author = {E Machery}, title = {Semantic epistemology: A brief response to Devitt}, journal = {Theoria (Spain)}, pages = {223 -- 227}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17448/}, abstract = {In this article, I argue that philosophers' intuitions about reference are not more reliable than lay people's and that intuitions about the reference of proper names and uses of proper names provide equally good evidence for theories of reference.} } @article{pittir17451, volume = {185}, number = {1}, month = {March}, author = {E Machery}, title = {Why I stopped worrying about the definition of life... and why you should as well}, journal = {Synthese}, pages = {145 -- 164}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17451/}, abstract = {In several disciplines within science-evolutionary biology, molecular biology, astrobiology, synthetic biology, artificial life-and outside science-primarily ethics-efforts to define life have recently multiplied. However, no consensus has emerged. In this article, I argue that this is no accident. I propose a dilemma showing that the project of defining life is either impossible or pointless. The notion of life at stake in this project is either the folk concept of life or a scientific concept. In the former case, empirical evidence shows that life cannot be defined. In the latter case, I argue that, although defining life may be possible, it is pointless. I conclude that scientists, philosophers, and ethicists should discard the project of defining life. {\copyright} 2011 Springer Science+Business Media B.V.} } @inproceedings{pittir17594, booktitle = {Symposium, "Philosophy of Cognitive Neuroscience: Evidence and Inference in Neuroimaging" at the Meeting of the Philosophy of Science Association}, title = {Neuroscientific validation}, author = {Edouard Machery}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17594/} } @incollection{pittir17510, month = {February}, title = {Simple Heuristics For Concept Combination}, author = {Edouard Machery and Lisa G Lederer}, publisher = {Oxford University Press}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17510/} } @incollection{pittir17439, month = {February}, author = {Edouard Machery and SP Stich}, booktitle = {The Routledge Companion to the Philosophy of Language}, editor = {G Russell and DG Fara}, address = {New York}, title = {The role of experiment in the philosophy of language}, publisher = {Routledge}, year = {2012}, pages = {495 -- 512}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17439/} } @unpublished{pittir11041, month = {June}, title = {DEALING WITH GRIEVANCES: THE LATINO EXPERIENCE IN PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA}, author = {Laura Macia}, year = {2012}, keywords = {transnationalism, support networks, hybridity, United States, legal anthropology, new growth area}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11041/}, abstract = {This dissertation examines how Latino immigrants in Pittsburgh, PA deal with their grievances. My central argument is that Latinos in Pittsburgh frame their grievance experiences through hybrid normative systems which are constructed from both the knowledge and experience about legal and social norms that they bring from their countries of origin, as well as from the specific experiences, flows of information, knowledge and perceptions accessible to them about the receiving legal culture. Given the limited availability of formal structures set in place to accommodate incoming migrants, Latinos form their understandings of the American social and legal culture from their own first-hand experiences, along with the information advanced to them by their personal support networks. These networks provide migrants with information, second-hand experience and support, and thus in many cases become pivotal support structures in a place where Latinos tend to perceive themselves as existing on the peripheries of a dominant culture. Not surprisingly, some of the norms that are ultimately adopted into the hybrid legal systems serve as protective mechanisms for these support networks, discouraging grievance processing mechanisms that could hurt these personal relationships or that could create future problems within them. Data on decision-making about how to pursue grievances were gathered from twenty in-depth interviews with Latinos from North, Central and South America, observation of on-going disputes and 199 memory cases that were collected. Informants for the interviews were chosen from a fairly representative list of Latinos in the Pittsburgh area: six of the interviewees were purposively sampled as spouses of American citizens and 14 were chosen by stratified purposive sampling according to type of occupation (?blue? or ?white? collar). The data gathered from these interviews were both qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed. This project is significant because, theoretically, it proposes changing hybridization as an alternative way of characterizing the transnational experience, particularly as it relates to the experience of legal and social norms. In so doing, the project also makes applied contributions by revealing the importance of differentiated but comprehensive entry level education to immigrants about the cultural and normative expectations that they face living in the United States.} } @unpublished{pittir14124, month = {September}, title = {Linking The Multiple Functions of XPF-ERCC1 Endonuclease in DNA Repair to Health Outcomes: Cancer and Aging}, author = {Advaitha Madireddy}, year = {2012}, keywords = {English}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14124/}, abstract = {XPF-ERCC1 is a structure specific endonuclease in which the XPF subunit is involved in nucleolytic activity and the ERCC1 subunit is involved in DNA binding. They are essential for multiple genome maintenance mechanisms which include the repair of bulky DNA monoadducts via nucleotide excision repair (NER) and also the repair of DNA interstrand crosslinks. In humans, the deficiency of XPF-ERCC1 results in two major syndromes: Xeroderma pigmentosum (XP), characterized by predisposition to skin cancer and XFE, characterized by symptoms of premature aging. The mechanism behind XP has been attributed to the inability to carry out NER. However, the mechanism behind the contribution of XPF-ERCC1 deficiency to aging has not yet been established. The most successful chemotherapeutic agents are crosslinking agents that cause both monoadducts and interstrand crosslinks in DNA. Unfortunately, {\texttt{\char126}}50\% of tumors are resistant to these drugs. Numerous studies implicate XPF-ERCC1 as a major culprit in tumor resistance because of its pivotal role in repairing DNA damage but to date, there is no conclusive evidence of this. This dissertation aims to advance our understanding of the mechanistic contribution of XPF-ERCC1 to two major issues of public health relevance, cancer and aging. The first chapter examines the importance of DNA binding residues of XPF-ERCC1 located in the c-terminus of both proteins. The results revealed that mutations in DNA binding residues located in the HhH domain of ERCC1 and the nuclease domain of XPF have a deleterious effect on nuclease and NER activity. Analysis of the n-terminus of XPF revealed that mutations in the n-terminus confer selective crosslink sensitivity to cells thereby identifying target regions of the XPF gene that could be exploited to generate an ICL repair pathway specific defect. To probe the functionality of XPF-ERCC1 as biomarkers of chemoresistance, we developed a novel monoclonal antibody, 1E4, which could be used to establish a positive correlation between XPF-ERCC1 protein levels and patient sensitivity to crosslinking regimes. To examine whether DNA repair capacity of an individual can predict lifespan, and to determine a way to diagnose disorders such as XP, we developed a novel semi-automated assay to measure the NER capacity of suspension cells.} } @incollection{pittir28751, booktitle = {Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Evolving Economies: The Role of Law}, month = {January}, title = {Contrasts in innovation: Pittsburgh then and now}, author = {MJ Madison}, year = {2012}, pages = {111 -- 155}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/28751/} } @article{pittir28752, month = {September}, title = {The End of the Work as We Know It}, author = {Michael J Madison}, year = {2012}, note = {Source info: Journal of Intellectual Property Law, Forthcoming}, keywords = {Intellectual Property, Copyright, Originality, Creativity, Copyright Work, Work of Authorship, Boundaries, Boundary Objects}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/28752/} } @article{pittir28755, volume = {30}, number = {1}, author = {Michael J Madison}, title = {Madisonian Fair Use}, publisher = {Yeshiva University Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law}, journal = {Cardozo Arts \& Entertainment Law Journal}, pages = {39 -- 51}, year = {2012}, keywords = {intellectual, property, copyright, fair, use, best, practices}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/28755/}, abstract = {This short essay reflects on developments in the law, scholarship, and practice of fair use since the publication in 2004 of an earlier article on patterns in fair use practice and adjudication. It synthesizes many of those developments in the idea of ?Madisonian? fair use, borrowing the separation of powers metaphor from James Madison?s work on the US Constitution and applying it, lightly and in a preliminary way, to copyright.} } @article{pittir16355, volume = {86}, number = {9}, month = {May}, author = {C Mageeney and WH Pope and M Harrison and D Moran and T Cross and D Jacobs-Sera and RW Hendrix and D Dunbar and GF Hatfull}, title = {Mycobacteriophage marvin: A new singleton phage with an unusual genome organization}, journal = {Journal of Virology}, pages = {4762 -- 4775}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16355/}, abstract = {Mycobacteriophages represent a genetically diverse group of viruses that infect mycobacterial hosts. Although more than 80 genomes have been sequenced, these still poorly represent the likely diversity of the broader population of phages that can infect the host, Mycobacterium smegmatis mc2155. We describe here a newly discovered phage, Marvin, which is a singleton phage, having no previously identified close relatives. The 65,100-bp genome contains 107 predicted protein-coding genes arranged in a noncanonical genomic architecture in which a subset of the minor tail protein genes are displaced about 20 kbp from their typical location, situated among nonstructural genes anticipated to be expressed early in lytic growth. Marvin is not temperate, and stable lysogens cannot be recovered from infections, although the presence of a putative xis gene suggests that Marvin could be a relatively recent derivative of a temperate parent. The Marvin genome is replete with novel genes not present in other mycobacteriophage genomes, and although most are of unknown function, the presence of amidoligase and glutamine amidotransferase genes suggests intriguing possibilities for the interactions of Marvin with its mycobacterial hosts. {\copyright} 2012, American Society for Microbiology.} } @article{pittir17859, volume = {13}, number = {1}, author = {Tom Magner and Stephanie Dangel}, title = {Introduction: law, technology, and entertainment in ? Pittsburgh???}, publisher = {University Library System, University of Pittsburgh}, journal = {Pittsburgh Journal of Technology law and Policy}, pages = {1 -- 3}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17859/}, abstract = {What do law, technology and entertainment have to do with Pittsburgh? Unless you work in the entertainment industry, the answer may surprise you.} } @unpublished{pittir12080, month = {June}, title = {DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION OF SIMULATORS FOR POWER WHEELCHAIR DRIVING EVALUATIONS}, author = {Harshal Mahajan}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Wheelchair driving, Virtual Reality, Driving Simulators, Rehabilitation Engineering, Joystick, People With Disabilities}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12080/}, abstract = {Of all those people with severe physical and cognitive disabilities who are rated as unsafe to drive a power wheelchair and hence denied a wheelchair, a significant number can have positive outcomes by using advanced control interfaces and by getting adequate amount of driving training. This dissertation research presents development and user evaluations with a virtual reality based wheelchair driving simulator system. Using the software systems validated in these research studies clinicians can select and customize joystick interfaces that can optimally use their client?s physical and cognitive capabilities. When people with traumatic brain injury and cerebral palsy used the isometric joystick they committed equivalent or lesser driving errors than when they used the conventional movement sensing joystick to drive a wheelchair. Potential wheelchair users can benefit from such customizable control interfaces to reliably and safely control their power wheelchairs and improve their community participation. An immersive virtual reality simulator was further developed as a driving training and evaluation tool. People with various disabilities completed a clinically validated driving evaluation protocol in real and virtual environments. Their virtual driving performances in the simulator were predictive of their performances in real world. Experienced clinicians showed high inter and intra rater reliabilities in their driving evaluations. Research was also performed to understand the relative contribution of different system components of the simulator system to the overall mental and physical workload of users. This research may assist researchers in selecting simulator system components that best suit the clinical needs of potential users. Clinicians who were trained to evaluate wheelchair driving using this system and wheelchair users who used it gave a general positive feedback that that this simulator has good potential for use in clinical or community settings.} } @article{pittir29834, month = {September}, title = {HIV-1 selectively exploits cross-reactive CTL "help" to promote dysfunctional programming of pro-inflammatory dendritic cells}, author = {RB Mailliard and KN Smith and RJ Fecek and CR Zaccard and SC Watkins and G Rappocciolo and JI Mullins and CR Rinaldo}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29834/} } @book{pittir23083, month = {January}, title = {Democracies and dictatorships in Latin America: Emergence, survival, and fall}, author = {S Mainwaring and A P{\'e}rez-Li{\~n}{\'a}n}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/23083/}, abstract = {This book presents a new theory for why political regimes emerge, and why they subsequently survive or break down. it then analyzes the emergence, survival, and fall of democracies and dictatorships in Latin America since 1900. Scott Mainwaring and An{\'i}bal P{\'e}rez?Li{\~n}{\'a}n argue for a theoretical approach situated between long?term structural and cultural explanations and short?term explanations that look at the decisions of specific leaders. They focus on the political preferences of powerful actors ? the degree to which they embrace democracy as an intrinsically desirable end and their policy radicalism ? to explain regime outcomes. They also demonstrate that transnational forces and influences are crucial to understand regional waves of democratization. Based on extensive research into the political histories of all twenty Latin American countries, this book offers the first extended analysis of regime emergence, survival, and failure for all of Latin America over a long period of time.} } @unpublished{pittir10465, month = {January}, title = {Environmental, Occupational, and Personal Lifestyle Risk Factors for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Case-Control Study }, author = {Angela/AMM Malek}, year = {2012}, keywords = {amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, epidemiology, pesticides, air pollutants}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10465/}, abstract = { ALS or Lou Gehrig?s disease is the most common motor neuron disease (MND) in adults. Male sex and age are the only known risk factors for ALS; however, an environmental etiology for ALS has been supported by epidemiologic studies and is suggested by the gender discrepancy. The objectives of this dissertation are to: 1) explore the relationship between pesticide exposure and risk of ALS through meta-analysis; 2) validate an ALS questionnaire to measure important risk factors in an ALS specific population; 3) examine the association of sociodemographic characteristics, personal risk factors, and occupational and environmental exposures and ALS; and to 4) evaluate the association of hazardous air toxics and risk of ALS by linkage to an existing database. Through this dissertation, a case-control study was conducted of 66 ALS cases and 66 matched controls from 2008-2011 to investigate risk factors for ALS. Existing data from the Environmental Protection Agency National-Scale Air Toxics Assessment was also analyzed in relation to residence of cases and controls. The results showed exposure to pesticides, solvents, and metals may increase the risk of ALS. In conclusion, several environmental and occupational exposures are suggested to play a role in the risk of ALS as well as other neurological diseases. This dissertation is of public health significance as it fills an important gap in ALS research and proposes a new direction of investigation for ALS, that of hazardous air pollutants. } } @article{pittir12715, volume = {7}, number = {5}, month = {May}, author = {Ivan V. Maly}, editor = {Yanmin Yang}, title = {Efficiency of Organelle Capture by Microtubules as a Function of Centrosome Nucleation Capacity: General Theory and the Special Case of Polyspermia}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, pages = {e37675 -- e37675}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12715/} } @article{pittir12704, volume = {7}, number = {6}, month = {June}, author = {Ivan V. Maly}, editor = {Daniela Cimini}, title = {Equilibria of Idealized Confined Astral Microtubules and Coupled Spindle Poles}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, pages = {e38921 -- e38921}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12704/} } @article{pittir29799, volume = {9}, month = {November}, title = {Effect of early anti-retroviral therapy on the pathogenic changes in mucosal tissues of SIV infected rhesus macaques}, author = {J Malzahn and C Shen and L Caruso and P Ghosh and SR Sankapal and S Barratt-Boyes and P Gupta and Y Chen}, year = {2012}, journal = {Virology Journal}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29799/}, abstract = {Background: The gastrointestinal tissue plays an important role in the pathogenesis of HIV/SIV infection and serves as a viral reservoir in infected individuals under antiretroviral therapy (ART). However, the effect of ART administration in the very early stage of infection on HIV/SIV replication and pathogenesis in gastrointestinal tissue has not been fully studied. In this current study, rhesus monkeys infected with SIV were treated with ART starting at day 7 post-infection. The effect of early ART on SIV replication and infection-related pathogenic changes in mucosal tissues of the infected monkeys was examined. Methods. Nuclear acids were extracted from snap frozen ileum and colon tissues and mesentery lymph nodes from SIV infected monkeys with or without ART. SIV RNA and DNA loads as well as levels of CD3, CD4 and cytokine mRNA were measured by PCR and RT PCR from the isolated nuclear acids. Tissue sections were stained by immuno-fluorescence labeled antibodies for CD3 and CD4. Results: Without ART treatment, these monkeys underwent a mild SIV infection with low viral loads and slightly decreased CD4{\S}ssup{\S}+{\S}esup{\S} T cell counts in peripheral blood. In ART treated monkeys, SIV RNA loads were undetectable in blood with normal CD4{\S}ssup{\S}+{\S}esup{\S} T cell counts, however, SIV RNA and DNA were detected in the intestinal tissues and mesentery lymph nodes although the levels were lower than those in untreated monkeys. The levels of CD3 and CD4 positive cells in the tissues were similar between the infected untreated monkeys and infected ART treated monkeys based on RT-PCR and immune-fluorescence staining of the tissue sections. Furthermore, compatible levels of IL-6, TNF-a, IL-1b and MyD88 mRNAs were detected in most of intestinal tissues and mesentery lymph nodes of infected ART treated and infected untreated monkeys. Conclusions: These results suggest that early ART administration could not effectively inhibit SIV replication in intestinal tissues and mesentery lymph nodes and could not reduce the immune activation induced by SIV infection in the intestinal tissues. {\copyright} 2012 Malzahn et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir10664, month = {January}, title = {The Role of Online Professional Development Opportunities for Teachers in Western Pennsylvania Public School Districts}, author = {Patrick Mannarino}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Online Professional Development}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10664/}, abstract = {The purpose of this study was to focus on how school districts are using online opportunities, activities, and programs for teacher professional development. The goal of this study was to identify the key indicators of success from principals and central office staff that implement online professional development opportunities in their public school districts. The research questions investigated how public school district located in Western Pennsylvania are using online professional development opportunities for teacher professional growth. After an initial survey of the 109 public school superintendents in Intermediate Units 1,3,4, and 27, final participants were selected based on varying student and faculty populations, and that have indicated they have been using online professional development opportunities for teachers K-12 for at least one (1) year. Methods of final data collection were face-to-face semi-structured interviews. The interviews were recorded and transcribed to allow for content analysis using identify consensus, supported, and individual themes. Key findings of the study indicate that the most important factor of a quality online professional development program was a strong leader in the role of building principal. This study discovered the variety of successful ways in which public school districts located in Western Pennsylvania are using online learning opportunities to meet the professional learning needs of their faculty and creates the opportunity for teachers to share ideas and collaborate with colleagues anywhere and anytime.} } @unpublished{pittir13191, month = {August}, title = {Isolation and Expansion of a unique stem cell population from human and mouse gallbladders}, author = {Rohan Manohar}, year = {2012}, keywords = {gallbladder, liver, stem cells, hepatocytes, Intrahepatic bile duct cells}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13191/}, abstract = {The identification of resident stem cells in the gallbladder and liver has great importance for basic biology and cell-based therapy. However, there is a paucity of data regarding gallbladder stem cells, especially in humans. In addition, the isolation of liver stem cells has been controversial in particular their ability to robustly generate hepatocytes that can engraft in vivo. The differences between gallbladder cells that are part of the extrahepatic bile duct system and intrahepatic bile duct cells have not yet been explored. Finally, the identification of gallbladder stem cells could represent an alternative source of hepatocytes for cell-based therapy to cure end stage liver disease. This is because gallbladder and liver cells are developmentally related and the removal of adult human gallbladders is relatively common surgery, thereby providing a large source of donor tissue. In this study, we focus on developing in vitro expansion and differentiation assays to evaluate bile duct stem cells, but focus on the adult mouse and fetal human gallbladders. We were able to successfully isolate and expand a resident epithelial stem cell from adult mouse gallbladder and intrahepatic bile duct system. Furthermore, we show that these cells are distinct or unique from each other. In addition, we have identified cell surface markers that can be used for the prospective isolation of candidate fetal human gallbladder stem cells and have determined that these cells have distinct phenotypic profiles compared to intrahepatic bile duct cells. Last, we identified candidate transcription factors that can be used for the reprogramming of gallbladder stem cells into hepatocytes. These experiments set the stage for future studies that could have important ramifications for cell-based therapy for liver disease. } } @unpublished{pittir11659, month = {June}, title = {Analysis of Resolution and Sensitivity of Kelvin Probe Force Microscopy}, author = {Bin Mao}, year = {2012}, keywords = {KPFM, Resolution, Sensitivity, Point spread function, Electrostatic force model}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11659/}, abstract = {Kelvin probe force microscope (KPFM) has evolved into an effective tool to characterize electronic properties of materials and devices. However, there is lack of systematic analysis of its practical aspects such as resolution and sensitivity. By analyzing the electrostatic model of the tip and sample, we can show that KPFM images are two-dimensional convolution of the actual surface potential distribution with a point spread function (PSF) derived from the tip geometry. Point spread function is a powerful tool, which can help us analyze the resolution. This thesis presents an analytical approach to find PSFs for probes with different geometric shapes in both amplitude-modulation and frequency-modulation KPFM. Based on PSF, we can define the resolution of KPFM according to Raleigh criteria. With this definition, we analyze the resolution of KPFM image corresponding to different shapes and positions of tips. This method leads us to find an optimal shape of tip to obtain good resolution in KPFM. Also, the resolution of single-pass scan KPFM and dual-pass lift-up scan KPFM is compared. In addition, we investigate the sensitivity of KPFM under different operation modes with various scanning parameters. The findings in this research provide practical guidance for setting proper parameters in KPFM.} } @unpublished{pittir10968, month = {June}, title = {INVESTIGATING MITOCHONDRIA PENETRATING PEPTIDES WITH SOLID STATE NMR USING MODEL MEMBRANES}, author = {Lauren E. Marbella}, year = {2012}, keywords = {penetrating peptides, mitochondria, NMR spectroscopy, translocation mechanism, lipid-peptide interaction}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10968/}, abstract = {Penetrating peptides are unique peptides that can translocate across membranes in a non-lytic fashion. A new class of penetrating peptides that can target the mitochondria with high specificity have been developed. Targeting the mitochondria is therapeutically valuable, given the organelle?s role in energy production and apoptosis. The peptide we studied is sufficiently cationic and hydrophobic and is hypothesized to reach the mitochondrial matrix. However, the mechanism of translocation remains unknown. In our work, we use solid state NMR to gain insight into the mechanism of translocation of this mitochondria-penetrating peptide. We use static 31P NMR the membrane morphology and peptide-induced structure changes. The paramagnetic relaxation effect examined through 13C MAS NMR was used for insertion depth determination and to distinguish bilayer sidedness. We found that the peptide does not disrupt the lamellarity. Also, at low peptide concentrations the peptide binds to the outer leaflet and at high concentrations crosses the hydrophobic bilayer core and is distributed in both leaflets. Our findings support the electroporation model of translocation, but we did not observe complete translocation of the peptide. We examine the energy associated with crossing the inner mitochondrial membrane to determine the feasibility of the peptide reaching the mitochondrial matrix.} } @unpublished{pittir11840, month = {June}, title = {POLITICAL STRATEGIES AND DOMESTIC ECONOMY OF THE LOTE B RURAL ELITE IN THE PREHISPANIC LUR{\'I}N VALLEY, PERU}, author = {Giancarlo Marcone}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Archaeology Peru Lurin valley Political strategies Rural elites Intermediate groups}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11840/}, abstract = {There is a long tradition in archaeology that focuses on the study of societal intermediate groups as a way to understand how broad regional political transformations intermingle with different local settings. This dissertation explores this topic at the rural Lima Culture site of Lote B (Cerro Manchay) in the Lur{\'i}n Valley. This site was occupied from the Early Intermediate to Middle Horizon period (circa 500?700 CE), a time of dramatic regional change. My research identifiyed the main power strategies at work in the site, the constituent factors of these power strategies and how they were re-arrange by Lote B inhabitants at the start of the Middle Horizon period. The analysis has illuminated the transformation of power strategies of Lote B inhabitant in both domestic and monumental context. In order to develop a better understanding of Lote B inhabitants? political strategies, test pits in midden deposits, complemented with limited broad excavations inside the architecture were undertaken at the four constituent sectors of the Site. The results of this investigation revealed an elite domestic compound occupied in the Early Intermediate and lasted through the Middle Horizon Period. This domestic compound was later co-opted by the Late Lima multi-valley polity through the construction of two non-domestic buildings, one of them a storage facility that was constructed on area previously used as burial grounds. Other transformations like the increase in feasting activities, more storage structures and better quality of architecture in the residential complex, suggests that these elite maybe benefited from an economical improvement with their inclusion into this regional polity. My results detail a case of what I believe is a common integrative process in the formation of regional-level polities: that intermediate elites are willing to trade independence of action for favored economic agendas, when this are likely to solidify their political position. In short, the regional transformation associated with the spread of the state, allowed local elites to change their relationships with commoners. } } @unpublished{pittir11514, month = {June}, title = {Stochastic Synchrony and Phase Resetting Curves: Theory and Applications.}, author = {Sashi Marella}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Stochastic synchrony, Phase resetting curve, Olfactory bulb, Brain}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11514/}, abstract = {In this thesis, our goal was to study the phase synchronization between two uncoupled oscillators receiving partially correlated input. Using perturbation methods we obtain a closed-form solution for the steady-state density of phase differences between the two oscillators. Order parameters for synchrony and cross-correlation are used to quantify the degree of stochastic synchronization. We show that oscillators proscribed with Type-II phase resetting curves (PRC's) are more prone to stochastic synchronization compared to Type-I PRCs, and that the synchrony in the system can be described by a closed-form expression for the probability distribution of phase differences between the two uncoupled oscillators. We also study Morris-Lecar, leaky integrate-and-?re model and the Wang-Buzsaki interneuron model. Motivated by our theoretical developments, we study synchronization in simple neuronal network models of the olfactory bulb by applying the results from the theoretical studies to spiking neuron models with feedback to qualitatively demonstrate the emergence of self-organized synchrony. Here we again use an abstract model to obtain an expression for the averaged dynamics and compare our predicted solutions using Monte-Carlo simulations. We also show that an arbitrary mechanism that has a finite time memory of correlated inputs can cause bistability in such a system. Furthermore, we investigated the rate at which such systems approach their steady-state distribution and show that the dependence of the rate on the shape of the PRC. We obtained an expression for the rate of convergence to the steady-state density of phase differences in a two oscillators system receiving partially correlated inputs without feedback. To this end, we study the closed-form expression to obtain an approximation using a perturbation technique suited for computing large eigenvalues. It is shown that Type-II PRC's converge to their steady-state density compared to Type-I PRC's and that the rate of convergence is dependent on the input correlation. Our theoretical and numerical studies suggest a potential mechanism by which asynchronous inhibtion may promote and amplify synchronization in systems where the individual actors can be described as general oscillators at least in certain regimes of their activity with a possible source of activity dependent and partially correlated feedback.} } @incollection{pittir16033, booktitle = {Applied Physiology in Intensive Care Medicine 2: Physiological Reviews and Editorials}, month = {January}, title = {Death by parenteral nutrition}, author = {PE Marik and MR Pinsky}, year = {2012}, pages = {343 -- 345}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16033/}, abstract = {According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary a poison or toxin is ?a substance that through its chemical action usually kills, injures or impairs an organism? [1]. Based on this definition, in the critically ill, total parenteral nutrition (TPN) meets all the criteria of a poison/toxin. Furthermore, TPN exhibits other properties common to many toxins, namely, the presence of a dose response curve (the more you give the greater the toxicity), its toxicity is most evident in those with depressed host defense mechanisms (the critically ill) and an antidote exists (enteral nutrition).} } @article{pittir18886, volume = {50}, number = {1}, month = {January}, author = {MP Marshal and KM King and SD Stepp and A Hipwell and H Smith and T Chung and MS Friedman and N Markovic}, title = {Trajectories of alcohol and cigarette use among sexual minority and heterosexual girls}, journal = {Journal of Adolescent Health}, pages = {97 -- 99}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18886/}, abstract = {To examine disparities between sexual minority girls (SMGs) and heterosexual girls in trajectories of substance use over time. Girls were included in the analyses if they were 1218 years of age at wave 1 and did not miss sexual orientation data at wave 4 (n = 7,765). Latent curve models were estimated across all four waves (extending from middle adolescence into young adulthood) to examine trajectories of cigarette and alcohol use. Initial levels of substance use were higher for SMGs than they were for heterosexual girls. SMGs also exhibited sharper escalations in use across all substances over time as they were transitioning into young adulthood. Persistent rates of cigarette and heavy alcohol use among SMGs may increase their risk for a host of mental and physical health problems in adulthood. Clinicians should be prepared to discuss SMG health topics effectively and in private, and discuss prevention and intervention programs with girls at risk.} } @article{pittir18887, volume = {25}, number = {1}, month = {February}, author = {MP Marshal and G Sucato and SD Stepp and A Hipwell and HA Smith and MS Friedman and T Chung and N Markovic}, title = {Substance Use and Mental Health Disparities among Sexual Minority Girls: Results from the Pittsburgh Girls Study}, journal = {Journal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology}, pages = {15 -- 18}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18887/}, abstract = {Purpose: To examine substance use and mental health disparities between sexual minority girls and heterosexual girls. Methods: Data from the Pittsburgh Girls Study were analyzed. All girls were 17 years old. Girls were included if they were not missing self-reported sexual orientation and mental health data (N = 527). Thirty-one girls (6\%) endorsed same-sex romantic orientation/identity or current same-sex attraction. Bivariate analyses were conducted to test group differences in the prevalence of substance use and suicidal behavior, and group differences in depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder (BPD), oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), and conduct disorder (CD) symptoms. Results: Compared with heterosexual girls, sexual minority girls reported higher past-year rates of cigarette, alcohol, and heavy alcohol use, higher rates of suicidal ideation and self-harm, and higher average depression, anxiety, BPD, ODD, and CD symptoms. Conclusions: Sexual minority girls are an underrepresented group in the health disparities literature, and compared with heterosexual girls, they are at higher risk for mental health problems, most likely because of minority stress experiences such as discrimination and victimization. The disparities found in this report highlight the importance of discussing sexual orientation as part of a comprehensive preventive care visit. {\copyright} 2012 North American Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology.} } @unpublished{pittir16552, month = {November}, title = {Homophobic Attitudes and Stigma Toward Gay Men and Lesbians in the Caribbean: A Systematic Review of the Literature}, author = {Carol J. Martin-Mack}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Caribbean}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16552/}, abstract = {Violent acts against gay men and lesbians are common in the Caribbean, including rape and assault. Widespread violence and attacks against homosexuals have prompted a human rights group to confer on one Caribbean country, Jamaica, the distinction of being the most homophobic place on earth. Homophobic ideology and stigma toward gay men and lesbians in the Caribbean can be observed in the interactions of various institutions such as the church, the health care system, the laws, the police, the government, formal culture (e.g., newspapers), and popular culture (e.g., music). This master?s thesis is based on a review of literature concerning homophobic attitudes and stigma toward gay men and lesbians in the Caribbean, including: British colonial laws known as ?Sodomy and Buggery? laws, newspaper articles, dancehall music, and calypso music. This literature analysis will assess the public health impact of such attitudes and stigma, particularly how stigmatization from community members leads gay men and lesbians into hiding because of their sexual behavior. Also, this thesis explores other public health issues related to gay men and lesbians, including: isolation in the community, alienation from family members, depression, emotional distress, physical torture, murder, and negative health outcomes of being stigmatized.} } @unpublished{pittir13078, month = {September}, title = {Addressing the Co-occurrence of HIV and Gender-based Violence: A Position Paper }, author = {Margaret Martone}, year = {2012}, keywords = {HIV, gender-based violence, the role of males}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13078/}, abstract = {Gender inequalities around the world have resulted in exceedingly high rates of HIV among females. Over the last twenty years, power imbalances in sexual and social interactions have left women vulnerable to HIV infection. Socioeconomic and biological factors and predominantly gender roles have contributed to increased rates of violence against women, which in turn perpetuates a feminization of HIV. This position paper examines the co-occurrence of HIV transmission and gender-based violence. In this effort, it is necessary to analyze the role that males play in interventions designed to prevent such violence and infections. This paper examines interventions that utilize three different approaches to participant involvement; female-alone approach, couples-based approach, and a male-alone approach. Evidence from the literature examined suggests there are benefits worth replicating from each type of intervention approach. However, only one study demonstrated sustained reduction in both HIV transmission and gender-based violence. The public health significance of this paper is that it promotes a new idea, based upon relevant findings, in which recruitment of youth and adolescents rather than adults, may explain the success of the program. Working with males, aged 8-16, to prevent the risky gender-based violence behaviors associated with subsequent HIV infection, will be more effective in overcoming cultural barriers and harmful social norms of masculinity that extend dangerous health outcomes for women. } } @article{pittir23124, volume = {9}, number = {3}, author = {Hern{\'a}n Mart{\'i}nez Mill{\'a}n}, title = {Eleg{\'i}a plat{\'o}nica, o sobre el deseo imberbe}, publisher = {North Carolina State University}, journal = {A contracorriente}, pages = {184 -- 198}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/23124/}, abstract = {El siguiente trabajo analiza, desde las claves de la hermen{\'e}utica queer, la po{\'e}tica de Porfirio Barba-Jacob.} } @article{pittir22069, volume = {1}, number = {2}, month = {April}, author = {Katrin B Mascha}, title = {Historical ?Truth,? Constructed Memory: Restaging Germany?s Reunification in Thomas Berger?s Television Melodrama Wir sind das Volk. Liebe kennt keine Grenzen (We are the people. Love without limits) (2008)}, journal = {CINEJ Cinema Journal}, pages = {36 -- 49}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22069/} } @unpublished{pittir11763, month = {May}, title = {?It?s All Me? In One Way or Another?: Transgressive Queer Embodiment in the Music Videos of Marilyn Manson}, author = {Brandon P. Masterman}, year = {2012}, keywords = {queer theory, queer performance, transgender studies, transgressive embodiment, queer musicology, popular music studies, queer negativity, Marilyn Manson, music videos }, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11763/}, abstract = {My work attempts to understand the deployment of transgressive queerness in contemporary American popular music videos. Rather than aligning with either the conservative moral panics or liberal arguments regarding free speech, I suggest that productive alternative understandings exist outside of this oppositional binary. Focusing on Marilyn Manson, particularly, I analyze how various performances open up a space of potentiality for greater imaginings of embodiment and erotics. The music of Marilyn Manson presents a scathing critique of the cultural landscape of the United States in the late twentieth and early twenty-first centuries. Through performance, the band is critical of religion, particularly Christianity, capitalism, and numerous ideologies of normativity, including beauty and sexuality. This performative commentary manifests in a number of different forms, which can each be traced, in true Deleuzian fashion, back to different nodes along a common theoretical plane{--}a rhizomatic constellation of critical discourse{--}of queer and gender studies. I begin by situating Manson as gesturing toward an eroticized posthuman aesthetic. Informed by diverse scholars such as feminist theorist of science Donna Haraway, gender theorists Kim Toffoletti and Judith ?Jack? Halberstam, and musicologists Suzanne Cusick and Judith Peraino, I argue that Manson discursively suggests alternative ways of being{--}and ways of being erotic{--}outside of normative humanity. Essentially, Manson asks why, in a society so inundated with intersections of technology and the body, must we insist on notions of the ?natural? body as superior to other modes of being, particularly regarding the erotic? I extend this argument to examine tropes of the non-normative erotic body in Marilyn Manson?s oeuvre in relation to theories of transgender embodiment, which is informed by my own musicological work, as well as the work of contemporary queer and transgender studies scholars. I suggest that through constant erotic depiction on non-normative bodies, the performances of Marilyn Manson provide a space of possibility for the viewer to realize powerful alternatives to the normative mainstream discourse regarding viable ways of being and forms of erotic pleasure. As such, these polemical performances might serve to destabilize conservative notions of appropriate behavior and acceptable citizenship in contemporary American culture.} } @article{pittir16730, volume = {4}, month = {January}, title = {Decreased risk of breast cancer associated with oral bisphosphonate therapy}, author = {A Mathew and A Brufsky}, year = {2012}, pages = {75 -- 81}, journal = {Breast Cancer: Targets and Therapy}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16730/}, abstract = {Preclinical studies and adjuvant trials using bisphosphonates have found them to have an antitumor effect. Although major advances have been made in chemoprevention strategies with selective estrogen receptor modulators and aromatase inhibitors, their use has been fraught with significant adverse effects such as venous thromboembolic events and an increased risk for endometrial cancer. In this context, several recent observational studies have investigated a chemoprevention role for oral bisphosphonates in decreasing risk for breast cancer. This review will aim to summarize these studies and present a critical evaluation of the association between oral bisphosphonate use and breast cancer risk reduction. {\copyright} 2012 Mathew and Brufsky, publisher and licensee Dove Medical Press Ltd.} } @article{pittir20666, volume = {6}, month = {December}, title = {Analysis of alternative signaling pathways of endoderm induction of human embryonic stem cells identifies context specific differences}, author = {S Mathew and M Jaramillo and X Zhang and LA Zhang and A Soto-Guti{\'e}rrez and I Banerjee}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Systems Biology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20666/}, abstract = {Background: Lineage specific differentiation of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) is largely mediated by specific growth factors and extracellular matrix molecules. Growth factors initiate a cascade of signals which control gene transcription and cell fate specification. There is a lot of interest in inducing hESCs to an endoderm fate which serves as a pathway towards more functional cell types like the pancreatic cells. Research over the past decade has established several robust pathways for deriving endoderm from hESCs, with the capability of further maturation. However, in our experience, the functional maturity of these endoderm derivatives, specifically to pancreatic lineage, largely depends on specific pathway of endoderm induction. Hence it will be of interest to understand the underlying mechanism mediating such induction and how it is translated to further maturation. In this work we analyze the regulatory interactions mediating different pathways of endoderm induction by identifying co-regulated transcription factors.Results: hESCs were induced towards endoderm using activin A and 4 different growth factors (FGF2 (F), BMP4 (B), PI3KI (P), and WNT3A (W)) and their combinations thereof, resulting in 15 total experimental conditions. At the end of differentiation each condition was analyzed by qRT-PCR for 12 relevant endoderm related transcription factors (TFs). As a first approach, we used hierarchical clustering to identify which growth factor combinations favor up-regulation of different genes. In the next step we identified sets of co-regulated transcription factors using a biclustering algorithm. The high variability of experimental data was addressed by integrating the biclustering formulation with bootstrap re-sampling to identify robust networks of co-regulated transcription factors. Our results show that the transition from early to late endoderm is favored by FGF2 as well as WNT3A treatments under high activin. However, induction of late endoderm markers is relatively favored by WNT3A under high activin.Conclusions: Use of FGF2, WNT3A or PI3K inhibition with high activin A may serve well in definitive endoderm induction followed by WNT3A specific signaling to direct the definitive endoderm into late endodermal lineages. Other combinations, though still feasible for endoderm induction, appear less promising for pancreatic endoderm specification in our experiments. {\copyright} 2012 Mathew et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir20847, volume = {21}, number = {6}, month = {April}, author = {T Matsumoto and SM Ingham and Y Mifune and A Osawa and A Logar and A Usas and R Kuroda and M Kurosaka and FH Fu and J Huard}, title = {Isolation and characterization of human anterior cruciate ligament-derived vascular stem cells}, journal = {Stem Cells and Development}, pages = {859 -- 872}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20847/}, abstract = {The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) usually fails to heal after rupture mainly due to the inability of the cells within the ACL tissue to establish an adequate healing process, making graft reconstruction surgery a necessity. However, some reports have shown that there is a healing potential of ACL with primary suture repair. Although some reports showed the existence of mesenchymal stem cell-like cells in human ACL tissues, their origin still remains unclear. Recently, blood vessels have been reported to represent a rich supply of stem/progenitor cells with a characteristic expression of CD34 and CD146. In this study, we attempted to validate the hypothesis that CD34- and CD146-expressing vascular cells exist in hACL tissues, have a potential for multi-lineage differentiation, and are recruited to the rupture site to participate in the intrinsic healing of injured ACL. Immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry analysis of hACL tissues demonstrated that it contains significantly more CD34 and CD146-positive cells in the ACL ruptured site compared with the noninjured midsubstance. CD34+CD45- cells isolated from ACL ruptured site showed higher expansionary potentials than CD146+CD45- and CD34-CD146-CD45- cells, and displayed higher differentiation potentials into osteogenic, adipogenic, and angiogenic lineages than the other cell populations. Immunohistochemistry of fetal and adult hACL tissues demonstrated a higher number of CD34 and CD146-positive cells in the ACL septum region compared with the midsubstance. In conclusion, our findings suggest that the ACL septum region contains a population of vascular-derived stem cells that may contribute to ligament regeneration and repair at the site of rupture. {\copyright} 2012 Mary Ann Liebert, Inc.} } @article{pittir26181, volume = {63}, number = {3}, month = {May}, author = {LC Matsumura and HE Garnier and J Spybrook}, title = {The Effect of Content-Focused Coaching on the Quality of Classroom Text Discussions}, journal = {Journal of Teacher Education}, pages = {214 -- 228}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/26181/}, abstract = {This study examines the effect of a comprehensive literacy-coaching program focused on enacting a discussion-based approach to reading comprehension instruction (content-focused coaching [CFC]) on the quality of classroom text discussions over 2 years. The study used a cluster-randomized trial in which schools were assigned to either CFC or standard practice in the district for literacy coaching. Observers rated classroom text discussions significantly higher in CFC schools. Teachers in the CFC schools participated more frequently in coaching activities that emphasized planning and reflecting on instruction, enacting lessons in their classrooms, building knowledge of the theory underlying effective pedagogy, and differentiating instruction than did the teachers in the comparison condition. Qualitative analyses of coach interviews identified substantive differences in the professional development support available to coaches, scope of coaches' job responsibilities, and focus of coaching resources in the CFC schools and comparison schools. {\copyright} 2012 American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education.} } @unpublished{pittir13005, month = {August}, title = {Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells Are Key Regulators of Immune Tolerance}, author = {Benjamin Matta}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Dendritic Cells, Plasmacytoid, Tolerance, Transplantation, Cytokines, Liver, Regulation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13005/}, abstract = {Solid organ allograft rejection and many autoimmune disorders remain significant clinical problems despite the efficacy of current immunosuppressive (IS) drug treatments. Moreover, the side effects of global IS drugs that inhibit immune responses in a non-specific manner may leave the host susceptible to development of cancer and chronic infection. The need for antigen (Ag)-specific treatments to reduce or eliminate the need for IS drugs is merited in these cases. Dendritic cells (DC) are important Ag-presenting cells (APC) that mediate innate and adaptive immune responses, and have been widely investigated as potential cell-based therapeutics to bolster or supplant current IS drug treatments in transplantation and autoimmune diseases. Conventional (c)DC are the most potent APC, however, they can be modified and conditioned to instead modulate immune responses and promote Ag-specific tolerance. Plasmacytoid (p)DC, the primary cells that produce type I IFN and activate anti-viral immunity, are also recognized as holding significant tolerogenic potential. In this dissertation, I present novel data that support the tolerogenic function of pDC and highlight their inability to elicit strong immune responses in the absence of viral infection. pDC exhibit a more immature phenotype compared to cDC that correlates to their weak ability to stimulate T cells. Moreover, liver pDC are less mature compared to pDC in the spleen. They promote regulatory T cell function, suppress delayed-type hypersensitivity responses, and are critical for the spontaneous acceptance of murine liver allografts. My data show that the co-inhibitory molecule B7 homolog-1 (B7-H1) is important for the immune regulatory capacity of spleen and liver pDC, and that the cytokine IL-27 regulates critical inhibitory functions of liver pDC, including their expression of B7-H1 and their immune suppressive capacity in vitro and in vivo. In summary, my data provide evidence that pDC are an attractive target for development of cell-based therapies and identify novel mechanisms utilized by pDC to regulate immune reactivity. I have described for the first time that donor pDC contribute to the spontaneous acceptance of murine liver allografts, a discovery that has important implications for development of future therapeutics to promote immune tolerance, especially in solid organ transplantation.} } @unpublished{pittir13621, month = {September}, title = {CHARACTERIZING DOPAMINE FUNCTION IN ADOLESCENT RATS}, author = {Marguerite Matthews}, year = {2012}, keywords = {adolescence, dopamine, striatum, amphetamine}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13621/}, abstract = {Adolescence is a developmental period that coincides with increased exploration, social interaction, risk-taking, and novelty-seeking, as well as the symptomatic onset of psychiatric illnesses. Remodeling of the mesocorticolimbic and nigrostriatal dopamine systems has been implicated in these vulnerabilities. Yet, little is known about functional consequences of this remodeling. This dissertation sought to investigate the dynamics of dopamine neurotransmission in adolescent rats in two functionally distinct dopamine innervated striatal subregions: the nucleus accumbens (NAc), which is implicated in reward processing, and the dorsal striatum (DS), which is involved in habit formation and flexible learning. The psychostimulant amphetamine was used as a tool to activate dopamine release in behaving rats. Microdialysis was used to measure extracellular levels of dopamine. An acute systemic administration of amphetamine caused smaller amphetamine-induced dopamine efflux in the DS of adolescent rats (postnatal days 35-38) compared to adults. Dopamine in NAc was increased similarly in both age groups. Amphetamine also caused reduced levels of stereotypy behavior in adolescents than adults. Reduced effectiveness of amphetamine in DS was not due to age-related differences in the dopamine transporter (DAT). Though adolescents have lower levels of DAT in the NAc and DS than adults, the DAT inhibitor nomifensine similarly inhibited basal and amphetamine-induced dopamine efflux in both striatal subregions of both age groups. Furthermore, vesicular monoamine transporter-2 (VMAT2) expression was similar in the DS and NAc of both adolescent and adult rats. In contrast, expression of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) was reduced in the DS, but not the NAc, of adolescents compared to adults. The adolescent rats also were behaviorally more sensitive to the effects of a TH inhibitor. Together these data suggest that dopamine neurotransmission in the DS of adolescents is hypofunctional compared to adults, resulting in part from reduced TH activity. Given that actions of dopamine on striatal neurons are primarily inhibitory, functions associated with DS, such as action selection and habit formation, may be less responsive to dopamine meditated inhibition during adolescence.} } @unpublished{pittir12363, month = {August}, title = {THE ORPHAN AMONG US: AN EXAMINATION OF ORPHANS IN NEWBERY AWARD WINNING LITERATURE}, author = {April, A Mattix}, year = {2012}, keywords = {orphans, children's literature, Newbery Award}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12363/}, abstract = {Orphan stories in children?s literature are rich and complex, and they have historically permeated the pages of children?s books. The purpose of this study was to explore the use of orphans as protagonists in children?s award-winning literature through content analysis. This study utilizes all the Newbery Award winning books (1922 ? 2011) as well as the Newbery Honor books of the last decade (2002 ? 2011) to provide a wide and deep swath of novels in order to present both historical perspective and attention to current trends. Specifically, this study explores how orphans are portrayed in Newbery texts, considers the messages these books convey about orphans, and compares the literary orphans against their real life counterparts. This investigation also seeks to determine the efficacy of previously established paradigms of orphan stories when compared to Newbery award-winning texts. The data in this study demonstrate that the orphan narrative is a popular form of children?s literature in the Newbery collection. It is a common literary tool for Newbery authors, and it serves as a platform for writers to develop strong, determined, and resilient protagonists who overcome adversity. The study also suggests that while there are similarities between the portrayal of orphans in Newbery texts and real life orphans, there are some discrepancies, particularly in the literary orphan?s ability to overcome the obstacles he or she faces. Additionally, current paradigms of orphan narrative literature do not wholly capture this corpus of texts. Finally, recommendations for practical classroom applications of the Newbery orphan stories are introduced.} } @article{pittir18888, volume = {380}, number = {9839}, month = {January}, author = {KH Mayer and LG Bekker and R Stall and AE Grulich and G Colfax and JR Lama}, title = {Comprehensive clinical care for men who have sex with men: An integrated approach}, journal = {The Lancet}, pages = {378 -- 387}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18888/}, abstract = {Men who have sex with men (MSM) have unique health-care needs, not only because of biological factors such as an increased susceptibility to infection with HIV and sexually transmitted infections associated with their sexual behaviour, but also because of internalisation of societal stigma related to homosexuality and gender non-conformity, resulting in depression, anxiety, substance use, and other adverse outcomes. Successful responses to the global HIV/ AIDS epidemic will require the development of culturally sensitive clinical care programmes for MSM that address these health disparities and root causes of maladaptive behaviour (eg, societal homophobia). Health-care providers need to become familiar with local outreach agencies, hotlines, and media that can connect MSM with positive role models and social opportunities. Research is needed to understand how many MSM lead resilient and productive lives in the face of discrimination to develop assets-based interventions that build on community support. Optimum clinical care for sexual and gender minorities is a fundamental human right. MSM deserve to be treated with respect, and health-care providers need to interact with them in ways that promote disclosure of actionable health information.} } @unpublished{pittir12030, month = {May}, title = {K-12 SCHOOL LEADERS AND SCHOOL CRISIS: AN EXPLORATION OF PRINCIPALS? SCHOOL CRISIS COMPETENCIES AND PREPAREDNESS}, author = {Sean McCarty}, year = {2012}, keywords = {crisis;education;K-12 Educational Leadership; crisis competencies; }, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12030/}, abstract = {On any given day, principals could find themselves faced with a situation that could define their roles as crisis leaders. This dissertation research offers an exploratory study in the field of crisis response and educational leadership. From experts in the field of crisis response, the author compiled a list of crisis management competencies specifically for school leaders and then assessed principals? and assistant principals? crisis leadership preparation and perceived familiarity with the competencies. Initially, the researcher contacted forty superintendents from The Western Pennsylvania Forum for School Superintendents and sixty-two superintendents from the Tri-State Area School Study Council to request permission to survey principals and assistant principals in their districts. One hundred ninety-two principals and assistant principals were identified and received email invitations requesting their participation in a brief survey. Of the 192 building administrators contacted, 82 responded to the survey. Two cases were excluded as incomplete, because the respondents completed fewer than half of the survey questions. Of the 80 included participants, 30 worked at the elementary school level, 18 at middle or junior high schools, and 28 at high schools (n = 76 reported). Sixty-three had completed a master?s degree and 12 had completed a v doctoral degree (n = 75 reported). Respondents had worked as building level administrators for an average of 8.53 years. The overall results of this exploratory study indicated that building level administrators appear to have varying levels of familiarity with limited formal training in the area of crisis leadership. Further research utilizing the crisis competencies and survey measurement tool developed in this initial research study could provide valuable knowledge and support for the future professional preparation of educational leaders.} } @book{pittir28556, title = {Never a Spectator: The Political Life of Elsie Hillman}, author = {Kathy McCauley}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/28556/}, abstract = {Elsie Hillman, through her thoughtful leadership, boundless energy, big-sky thinking, clear perceptions, and principled defenses of civil rights, rose in power within a transitioning Republican Party. As a party moderate, she encouraged women to run for political office and supported their efforts, worked hard to increase the political participation of African Americans in the party, and engaged and garnered the support of organized labor for candidates who shared her beliefs. This book contains a glimpse of Elsie Hillman?s knack for identifying individuals she believed would make good, balanced leaders and her tireless work to elevate them to positions of great power, leading some to dub her a kingmaker; her concerns for the moral, social, and political implications of religious beliefs; her passion for certain political issues that were not often shared by those in her party; and her sadness over having dedicated much of her life to a party that she came to believe had abandoned her. Elsie?s clarity of thought, vision, and commitment, and her dedication and ability to will into being that which others may not have imagined possible makes her story an important study in leadership, civic engagement, politics, and government{--}in any context.} } @article{pittir17598, volume = {2}, month = {July}, author = {Barbara McCloskey}, title = {Marking Time: Women and Nazi Propaganda Art during World War II}, publisher = {University Library System, University of Pittsburgh}, journal = {Contemporaneity: Historical Presence in Visual Culture}, pages = {1 -- 17}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17598/}, abstract = {{\ensuremath{<}}jats:p{\ensuremath{>}}"Marking Time" considers the relative scarcity of woman's image in Nazi propaganda posters during World War II. This scarcity departs from the ubiquity of women in paintings and sculptures of the same period. In the fine arts, woman served to solidify the "Nazi myth" and its claim to the timeless time of an Aryan order simultaneously achieved and yet to come. Looking at poster art and using Ernst Bloch's notion of the nonsynchronous, this essay explores the extent to which women as signifiers of the modern ? and thus as markers of time ? threatened to expose the limits of this Nazi myth especially as the regime's war effort ground to its catastrophic end.{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:p{\ensuremath{>}}} } @inproceedings{pittir23076, booktitle = {University of Pittsburgh Humanities Center Symposium on Crusade after the Crusades: Conquest, Colonialism}, month = {November}, title = {Apocalyptic Historiography in the Late Latin Kingdom of Acre: Manuscripts of the Histoire ancienne jusq?{\`a} C{\'e}sar}, author = {Ryan McDermott}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/23076/} } @article{pittir19124, month = {September}, title = {For MLA Jobs Market, Cautious Optimism}, author = {Ryan McDermott}, publisher = {The Chronicle of Higher Education}, year = {2012}, journal = {The Chronicle of Higher Education: The Conversation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19124/} } @article{pittir19121, volume = {9}, number = {2}, author = {Ryan McDermott}, title = {John Henry Newman and the Oratory School Latin Plays}, publisher = {Philosophy Documentation Center}, journal = {Newman Studies Journal}, pages = {6 -- 12}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19121/} } @inproceedings{pittir23070, booktitle = {The Medieval English Colloquium and Medieval Studies Committee}, month = {April}, title = {Performed Bible}, author = {Ryan McDermott}, year = {2012}, note = {Panel contribution for the symposium}, journal = {Translating the Bible in the Later Middle Ages}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/23070/} } @inproceedings{pittir19132, booktitle = {International Congress on Medieval Studies}, title = {The Secularization and Modernity Debate: Beyond Negative Theology.}, author = {Ryan McDermott}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19132/} } @inproceedings{pittir19130, booktitle = {18th Biennial Congress of the New Chaucer Society}, month = {July}, title = {What Comes After Subtraction Narratives?[Contribution to roundtable, ?Understanding the Secular.?]}, author = {Ryan McDermott}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19130/} } @article{pittir17648, volume = {3}, number = {1}, month = {August}, author = {David McFarland}, title = {Book Review: Paths to a World-Class University: Lessons from Practices and Experiences}, journal = {Excellence in Higher Education}, pages = {63 -- 65}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17648/} } @article{pittir18889, volume = {16}, number = {1}, month = {January}, author = {W McFarland and YH Chen and B Nguyen and M Grasso and D Levine and R Stall and G Colfax and T Robertson and HHM Truong and HF Raymond}, title = {Behavior, intention or chance? a longitudinal study of HIV seroadaptive behaviors, abstinence and condom use}, journal = {AIDS and Behavior}, pages = {121 -- 131}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18889/}, abstract = {Seroadaptive behaviors have been widely described as preventive strategies among men who have sex with men (MSM) and other populations worldwide. However, causal links between intentions to adopt seroadaptive behaviors and subsequent behavior have not been established. We conducted a longitudinal study of 732 MSM in San Francisco to assess consistency and adherence to multiple seroadaptive behaviors, abstinence and condom use, whether prior intentions predict future seroadaptive behaviors and the likelihood that observed behavioral patterns are the result of chance. Pure serosorting (i.e., having only HIV-negative partners) among HIV-negative MSM and seropositioning (i.e., assuming the receptive position during unprotected anal sex) among HIV-positive MSM were more common, more successfully adhered to and more strongly associated with prior intentions than consistent condom use. Seroconcordant partnerships occurred significantly more often than expected by chance, reducing the prevalence of serodiscordant partnerships. Having no sex was intended by the fewest MSM, yet half of HIV-positive MSM who abstained from sex at baseline also did so at 12 month follow-up. Nonetheless, no preventive strategy was consistently used by more than onethird of MSM over all and none was adhered to by more than half from baseline to follow-up. The effectiveness of seroadaptive strategies should be improved and used as efficacy endpoints in trials of behavioral prevention interventions. {\copyright} 2011 Springer Science+Business Media, LLC.} } @article{pittir18890, volume = {7}, number = {6}, month = {November}, author = {Ian McGowan}, title = {Rectal microbicide development}, publisher = {Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)}, year = {2012}, journal = {Current Opinion in HIV and AIDS}, pages = {526 -- 533}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18890/} } @article{pittir14154, volume = {7}, number = {3}, month = {March}, title = {Whole exome sequencing in a random sample of north American women with leiomyomas identifies MED12 mutations in majority of uterine leiomyomas}, author = {MM McGuire and A Yatsenko and L Hoffner and M Jones and U Surti and A Rajkovic}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14154/}, abstract = {Uterine leiomyomas (uterine fibroids) arise from smooth muscle tissue in the majority of women by age 45. It is common for these clonal tumors to develop from multiple locations within the uterus, leading to a variety of symptoms such as pelvic pain, abnormal uterine bleeding, and infertility. We performed whole exome sequencing on genomic DNA from five pairs of leiomyomas and corresponding normal myometrium to determine genetic variations unique to leiomyomas. Whole exome sequencing revealed that the gene encoding transcription factor MED12 (Mediator complex subunit 12) harbored heterozygous missense mutations caused by single nucleotide variants in highly conserved codon 44 of exon 2 in two of five leiomyomas. Sanger re-sequencing of MED12 among these five leiomyomas confirmed the two single nucleotide variants and detected a 42 base-pair deletion within exon 2 of MED12 in a third leiomyoma. MED12 was sequenced in an additional 143 leiomyomas and 73 normal myometrial tissues. Overall, MED12 was mutated in 100/148 (67\%) of the genotyped leiomyomas: 79/148 (53\%) leiomyomas exhibited heterozygous missense single nucleotide variants, 17/148 (11\%) leiomyomas exhibited heterozygous in-frame deletions/insertion-deletions, 2/148 (1\%) leiomyomas exhibited intronic heterozygous single nucleotide variants affecting splicing, and 2/148 (1\%) leiomyomas exhibited heterozygous deletions/insertion-deletions spanning the intron 1-exon 2 boundary which affected the splice acceptor site. Mutations were not detected in MED12 in normal myometrial tissue. MED12 mutations were equally distributed among karyotypically normal and abnormal uterine leiomyomas and were identified in leiomyomas from both black and white American women. Our studies show an association between MED12 mutations and leiomyomas in ethnically and racially diverse American women. {\copyright} 2012 McGuire et al.} } @unpublished{pittir13445, month = {September}, title = {Distribution of cogenetic iron and clay deposits in the central Appalachian region }, author = {Mary K. McGuire}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Appalachian, iron, clay, iron furnaces}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13445/}, abstract = {Maps of more than 500 abandoned iron mines, 350 early iron furnaces, and numerous clay mines in the central part of the Appalachian region reveal the distribution and close association of siderite-limonite bearing ores and clay deposits. The deposits crop out from Lancaster County, Pennsylvania to Scioto County, Ohio, a distance of more than 300 miles. The geologic settings of the deposits are diverse. In the Valley and Ridge Province and Piedmont Province, mineralization follows structures such as major sub-horizontal thrust faults (e.g. Martic) and steep thrust faults, (e. g. Path Valley), that juxtapose carbonate units against other rocks. Carbonate units within the Plateau Province also contain economic deposits of iron ores and clay. The ores are commonly siderite and limonite principally in the form of nodules and other irregular masses in clayey, calcareous beds. Illite and kaolinite are the main clay minerals. Silica is a common constituent of the clayey rocks and in some of the iron-rich, ore horizons (e.g. Buhrstone). The working hypothesis for the formation of the iron ore and clay is that reactive fluids probably moved westward along structural and stratigraphic horizons in response to tectonic events and where they encounter carbonate rocks, clay formed and iron precipitated under favorable geochemical conditions. This hypothesis differs from other ideas such as weathering and consequent development of leached paleosols, and bog iron formation. Modern models of iron deposition are based on shallow groundwater transporting iron to the precipitation site. The possible outflow of basinal fluids along deep thrust faults and cross strike discontinuities was considered as an alternative process for iron deposition and clay formation.} } @article{pittir15571, volume = {7}, number = {5}, month = {May}, title = {In vivo evolution of tumor-derived endothelial cells}, author = {TF McGuire and GB Sajithlal and J Lu and RD Nicholls and EV Prochownik}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15571/}, abstract = {The growth of a malignant tumor beyond a certain, limited size requires that it first develop an independent blood supply. In addition to providing metabolic support, this neovasculature also allows tumor cells to access the systemic circulation, thus facilitating metastatic dissemination. The neovasculature may originate either from normal blood vessels in close physical proximity to the tumor and/or from the recruitment of bone marrow-derived endothelial cell (EC) precursors. Recent studies have shown that human tumor vasculature ECs may also arise directly from tumor cells themselves and that the two populations have highly similar or identical karyotypes. We now show that, during the course of serial in vivo passage, these tumor-derived ECs (TDECs) progressively acquire more pronounced EC-like properties. These include higher-level expression of EC-specific genes and proteins, a greater capacity for EC-like behavior in vitro, and a markedly enhanced propensity to incorporate into the tumor vasculature. In addition, both vessel density and size are significantly increased in neoplasms derived from mixtures of tumor cells and serially passaged TDECs. A comparison of early- and late-passage TDECs using whole-genome single nucleotide polymorphism profiling showed the latter cells to have apparently evolved by a process of clonal expansion of a population with a distinct pattern of interstitial chromosomal gains and losses affecting a relatively small number of genes. The majority of these have established roles in vascular development, tumor suppression or epithelial-mesenchymal transition. These studies provide direct evidence that TDECs have a strong evolutionary capacity as a result of their inherent genomic instability. Consequently such cells might be capable of escaping anti-angiogenic cancer therapies by generating resistant populations. {\copyright} 2012 McGuire et al.} } @article{pittir38894, volume = {2012}, month = {December}, author = {Susan R. McGurk and Shaun M. Eack and Matthew Kurtz and Kim T. Mueser}, title = {Cognitive Remediation and Psychosocial Rehabilitation for Individuals with Severe Mental Illness}, publisher = {Hindawi Limited}, journal = {Rehabilitation Research and Practice}, pages = {1--2}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/38894/} } @unpublished{pittir13231, month = {September}, title = {MOBILITY REDUCTION OF CO2 USING CO2 SOLUBLE SURFACTANTS }, author = {William McLendon}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Enhanced oil recovery, Mobility control, surfactant, CO2}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13231/}, abstract = {Addition of slightly CO2-soluble, brine-soluble, surfactants to high pressure CO2 for EOR may facilitate in-situ generation of CO2-in-brine foams for mobility control. These non-ionic surfactants have been demonstrated to dissolve in CO2 to concentrations of 0.1wt\% at reservoir conditions and stabilize CO2-in-brine foams in a high pressure windowed cell. One such surfactant is Huntsman SURFONIC? N, a branched nonylphenol ethoxylates with averages of 12 (N-120) or 15(N-150) ethylene oxide repeat units in the hydrophile. SURFONIC? N-120 was selected for mobility reduction studies involving flow of CO2 into brine-saturated porous media. Transient mobility measurements were conducted using a water-wet Berea core (104mD), water-wet Bentheimer sandstone core ({\texttt{\char126}}1500mD), and several SACROC carbonate cores (3.6 and 8.9mD). The CO2 was injected into brine-saturated cores at superficial velocity of 10 ft/day, and surfactant was either not used (control), dissolved only in brine at 0.07wt\%, dissolved only in CO2 at {\texttt{\char126}}0.07wt\%, or dissolved in brine and CO2 at 0.07wt\%. In general, in-situ foam generation in relatively high permeability sandstone was evidenced during the first few pore volumes of CO2 injected by pressure drops that were 2-3 times greater than control tests regardless of what phase CO2 was in. Mobility reduction was more modest (20?50\% increases in pressure drop) in lower permeability SACROC cores (3.6 and 8.9mD) when surfactant was dissolved in CO2. With surfactant dissolved in brine, pressure drops increased by a factor of 2?3 when CO2 was injected into an 8.9mD core. High pressure CT imaging of in-situ foam generation was conducted by injecting high pressure CO2 into 5wt\% KI-brine-saturated Berea sandstone (3-8mD). Tests with no surfactant (control), or with surfactant dissolved either brine or CO2 at {\texttt{\char126}}0.07wt\%. At lower superficial velocities (0.47ft/day), in-siti foam generation was obvious only when surfactant was dissolved in brine. Higher flow rates (4.7ft/day) preferential flow of CO2 through high permeability layers and viscous fingering within layers that occurred during control tests was suppressed by addition of surfactant to either CO2 or brine. The most distinct CO2 foam front occurred with surfactant dissolved in brine. } } @article{pittir23249, volume = {37}, number = {9}, month = {May}, author = {B McMillen and B Zhang and KP Chen and A Benayas and D Jaque}, title = {Ultrafast laser fabrication of low-loss waveguides in chalcogenide glass with 0.65 dB/cm loss}, journal = {Optics Letters}, pages = {1418 -- 1420}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/23249/}, abstract = {This Letter reports on the fabrication of low-loss waveguides in gallium-lanthanum-sulfide chalcogenide glasses using an ultrafast laser. Spatial beam shaping and temporal pulse width tuning were used to optimize the guided mode profiles and optical loss of laser-written waveguides. Highly symmetric single-mode waveguides guiding at 1560 nm with a loss of 0.65 dB/cm were fabricated using 1.5 ps laser pulses. This Letter suggests a pathway to produce high quality optical waveguides in substrates with strong nonlinearity using the ultrafast laser direct writing technique. {\copyright} 2012 Optical Society of America.} } @unpublished{pittir13188, month = {September}, title = {Ultrafast Laser Fabrication of Waveguides in Glasses and Crystalline Materials}, author = {Benjamin W. McMillen}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Waveguide, Laser, Ultrafast, Glasses, Crystals, Chalcogenide, Sapphire, Lithium, Tantalate, Bragg, Poling, Silica}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13188/}, abstract = {Over the last decade, the ultrafast laser has emerged as a powerful tool to shape three-dimensional photonic circuits in transparent dielectric materials. One of the unique traits of this fabrication approach is its ability to produce photonic circuits in bulk optical substrates with proven optical quality. It therefore bypasses all challenges associated with multi-step thin-film based material synthesis and fabrication techniques. In this thesis, the ultrafast direct laser writing (DLW) technique is applied to several materials, including fused silica, lithium tantalate ( ), sapphire ( ), and gallium lanthanum sulfide (GLS) chalcogenide glass to produce 3D photonic circuits. Optimal processing conditions are determined through the analysis of the guided-mode characteristics of these structures, while the mechanisms behind the laser-induced refractive index change are investigated with such techniques as micro-structural Raman imaging, and second-harmonic microscopy. This research identifies optimized processing conditions by considering laser-induced multi-photon ionization, pulse distortion due to nonlinear Kerr interactions, and laser-induced thermal effects, all in connection with the intrinsic material properties. Based on this fundamental understanding of ultrafast laser material interactions, spatial and temporal pulse shaping is implemented to precisely engineer laser-induced refractive index change at femtosecond time scales with micrometer spatial resolution. This work has yielded high quality low-loss photonic circuits in chalcogenide glasses for nonlinear and mid-IR applications. } } @unpublished{pittir13502, month = {September}, title = {Using Attachment Theory to Understand Intergenerational Transmission of Intimate Partner Violence and Implications for Use in Treatment and Policy Reform}, author = {Kristie D. McVay}, year = {2012}, keywords = {intimate partner violence, IPV, intergenerational transmission, attachment theory, domestic violence, spousal violence}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13502/}, abstract = {Background: Intimate partner violence is experienced by at least 1.3 million women each year, who make up 85 percent of victims. One in every four women will experience intimate partner violence in her lifetime. Many programs are available that offer limited services to victims and perpetrators alike. These programs have been proven to be ineffective and are deficient in evidence-based practice and outcome evaluation, yet they continue to be funded each year. Objective: To identify current evidence-based practice and outcome evaluation research on intimate partner violence as a result of attachment style and the use of attachment theory in therapeutic treatment programming and policy-making. Methods: A literature search was conducted to identify articles that have described intimate partner violence, how intergenerational transmission works and the theories behind it, and how attachment theory lends itself to the understanding of intergenerational transmission and perpetuation of intimate partner violence. Results: An association was found between the intergenerational transmission of intimate partner violence and individual or partner attachment styles. Witnessing intimate partner violence in combination with the influence of insecure parental attachment bonds creates an individual who often develops anxious adult romantic attachment patterns leading to a greater propensity to enter into a violent intimate relationship. Conclusions: This problem is of great public health significance due to the amount of women affected each year by intimate partner violence in the United States. There is a great need for implementation of attachment theory in treatment provisions for victims and perpetrators of IPV. Current treatments are not effective and policies surrounding IPV lack effective restorative and rehabilitative therapies, while relying too heavily on retributive justice. More multifaceted treatment is needed that can be tailored to a specific couple?s needs. In addition, policies are essential to guide these treatment recommendations and decrease IPV in the United States.} } @article{pittir17449, volume = {3}, number = {2}, month = {March}, author = {J Mccaffrey and E Machery}, title = {Philosophical issues about concepts}, journal = {Wiley Interdisciplinary Reviews: Cognitive Science}, pages = {265 -- 279}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17449/}, abstract = {In this article, we review some important controversies about concepts in the philosophy of psychology, focusing particularly on the theories of concepts developed in philosophy, on the debate about the homogeneity of concepts, on neo-empiricism, and on concept learning. {\copyright} 2012 John Wiley \& Sons, Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir13620, month = {September}, title = {POLICE BEHAVIOR IN POST-CONFLICT STATES: EXPLAINING VARIATION IN RESPONSES TO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, INTERNAL HUMAN TRAFFICKING, AND RAPE}, author = {Peace A. Medie}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Post-Conflict, Gender-Based Violence, Law Enforcement, Security Sector Reform, Women's Rights, Africa, Liberia, Policy Implementation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13620/}, abstract = {Security sector reform programs restructure police forces to improve how they respond to gender-based violence (GBV). However, significant weaknesses persist in how police officers enforce anti-GBV laws. One area of weakness is the attrition of cases; officers fail to refer the majority of cases to the courts but rather withdraw them at the police station. Studies of police behavior in post-conflict African states have attributed the withdrawal of cases to corruption, poor professionalism, patriarchal gender norms, and underequipped police forces. Though salient, these conditions do not adequately explain police responses to GBV crimes. Even in police stations with the most poorly trained, corrupt, underequipped, and biased officers, a small number of cases advance to court. This dissertation investigates this puzzle by studying officers? responses to domestic violence, internal human trafficking, and rape in two Liberian counties. While officers withdraw over 50 percent of domestic violence and internal human trafficking cases, they withdraw less than five percent of rape cases every year. This study employs 150 interviews with officers of the Women and Children Protection Section (WACPS) as well as survivors of violence, bureaucrats, and staff of international organizations (IOs) and local women?s nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) to explain this disparity. It finds that officers are more likely to refer rape cases to court because they perceive rape as an offense that is above the jurisdiction of the police and because the WACPS enforces a non-withdrawal policy for rape cases. This perception is a product of training provided by state and non-state actors; the stature of the crime in the penal law; and the WACPS? policies. This study also finds that when these two conditions do not exist, officers sometimes forward cases to court based on their judgments of the victim and of the effects of the crime on the victim. It argues that the state, IOs, and NGOs have prioritized sexual violence and emphasized the prosecution of sexual offenders through legal and policy changes, institution building, and awareness-raising, to the relative neglect of other forms of GBV. This disparity has contributed to the variation in how officers respond to GBV.} } @unpublished{pittir16921, month = {December}, title = {Drug Overdose: Prevention Vs. Treatment}, school = {University of Pittsburgh}, author = {Erica Medina}, publisher = {University of Pittsburgh}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16921/}, abstract = {The purpose of this research is to identify the effectiveness of drug overdose prevention in comparison to drug addiction treatment programs. Drug addiction is a brain disease, and treating it requires the incorporation of several components. Addiction is a condition of public health significance due to its effects on society. The first phase involves a qualitative research project carried out by the Allegheny County Overdose Prevention Coalition (ACOPC). This project attempted to involve police as stakeholders in a drug prevention effort. The second phase involves research on drug addiction treatment and the theories behind the various approaches. The findings will show how drug overdose prevention can help to alleviate some of the financial burden of treatment programs, and help people to have a better quality of life. School-based substance abuse prevention programming that effectively addresses substance abuse appears to be an excellent investment and is likely to pay for itself in resource cost savings alone. Taken as a whole, the benefits of substance abuse prevention well outweigh the costs of providing the service of treatment.} } @unpublished{pittir10690, month = {January}, title = {Contagion In Financial Banking Systems}, author = {Cristina M. Megas}, year = {2012}, keywords = {contagion, financial systems, financial networks, shocks}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10690/}, abstract = {This paper takes a financial network, applies a shock to the system and looks at the resulting institutions that fail. It considers the propagation of contagion through the financial network by employing various techniques. The first method calculates unique clearing payments for all the banks in the system. It also defines fundamental default and contagious failure of any financial institution and differentiates between these two important concepts. The second method uses mean-field approximations to make all the banks in the system identical. It reduces an institution's external assets so that it defaults and looks at subsequent failures that spread through the financial network. This technique provides criteria for shocks and for initial and successive defaults. It considers cases with and without liquidity shocks. This paper presents a connectivity measure using Kirchhoff's theorem. It computes the Kirchhoff number of all the banks in a financial network and finds the most and least vulnerable institutions. Finally, this paper tests the described connectivity measure by performing simulations on financial systems with a varying number of large banks and analyzing the results.} } @inproceedings{pittir12398, booktitle = {Conference on Autonomous Agents and Multiagent Systems}, month = {June}, title = {A cognitive architecture for emergency response}, author = {Felipe Meneguzzi and Jean Oh and Nilanjan Chakraborty and Katia Sycara and Siddharth Mehrotra and James Tittle and Michael Lewis}, publisher = {ACM}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12398/}, abstract = {Plan recognition, cognitive workload estimation and human assistance have been extensively studied in the AI and human factors communities, resulting in many techniques being applied to domains of various levels of realism. These techniques have seldom been integrated and evaluated as complete systems. In this paper, we report on the development of an assistant agent architecture that integrates plan recognition, current and future user information needs, workload estimation and adaptive information presentation to aid an emergency response manager in making high quality decisions under time stress, while avoiding cognitive overload. We describe the main components of a full implementation of this architecture as well as a simulation developed to evaluate the system. Our evaluation consists of simulating various possible executions of the emergency response plans used in the real world and measuring the expected time taken by an unaided human user, as well as one that receives information assistance from our system. In the experimental condition of agent assistance, we also examine the effects of different error rates in the agent's estimation of user's stat or information needs.} } @article{pittir14430, volume = {38}, number = {5}, month = {May}, author = {R Menezes-Silva and S Khaliq and K Deeley and A Letra and AR Vieira}, title = {Genetic susceptibility to periapical disease: Conditional contribution of MMP2 and MMP3 genes to the development of periapical lesions and healing response}, journal = {Journal of Endodontics}, pages = {604 -- 607}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14430/}, abstract = {Introduction: It has been proposed that individual genetic predisposition may contribute to a persistent apical periodontitis condition. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are associated with levels of inflammation and are involved in caries, pulpal, and periapical tissue destruction. MMPs also play a major role in bone resorption. In this study, we hypothesized that polymorphisms in MMP genes and their regulators may contribute to an individual's increased susceptibility to apical tissue destruction in response to deep carious lesions. Methods: Sixteen hundred radiographic records obtained through the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine Dental Registry and DNA Repository were screened for subjects with deep carious lesions in dentin with or without periapical lesions (?3 mm). DNA samples of 268 patients were sorted into 2 groups: 158 cases with deep carious lesions but no periapical lesions (controls) and 110 cases with periapical lesions and deep carious lesions (cases). Sixteen SNP markers in MMP2, MMP3, MMP9, MMP13, MMP14, and TIMP2, were selected for genotyping. Genotypes were generated by endpoint analysis in a real-time polymerase chain reaction instrument. Analyses were performed comparing cases and controls. Allele and genotypic frequencies and haplotype analysis were calculated using the PLINK program. Results: An association was found for MMP3 rs639752 (P =.03) and rs679620 (P =.004) genotypes in individuals with periapical lesions. We also observed altered transmission of MMP2 marker haplotypes (P =.000004) in these individuals. Conclusions: Variations in MMP2 and MMP3 are associated with periapical lesion formation in individuals with untreated deep carious lesions. Future studies could help predict host susceptibility to developing periapical lesions. Copyright {\copyright} 2012 American Association of Endodontists.} } @article{pittir15891, volume = {8}, number = {8}, month = {August}, title = {Protease Cleavage Leads to Formation of Mature Trimer Interface in HIV-1 Capsid}, author = {X Meng and G Zhao and E Yufenyuy and D Ke and J Ning and M DeLucia and J Ahn and AM Gronenborn and C Aiken and P Zhang}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS Pathogens}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15891/}, abstract = {During retrovirus particle maturation, the assembled Gag polyprotein is cleaved by the viral protease into matrix (MA), capsid (CA), and nucleocapsid (NC) proteins. To form the mature viral capsid, CA rearranges, resulting in a lattice composed of hexameric and pentameric CA units. Recent structural studies of assembled HIV-1 CA revealed several inter-subunit interfaces in the capsid lattice, including a three-fold interhexamer interface that is critical for proper capsid stability. Although a general architecture of immature particles has been provided by cryo-electron tomographic studies, the structural details of the immature particle and the maturation pathway remain unknown. Here, we used cryo-electron microscopy (cryoEM) to determine the structure of tubular assemblies of the HIV-1 CA-SP1-NC protein. Relative to the mature assembled CA structure, we observed a marked conformational difference in the position of the CA-CTD relative to the NTD in the CA-SP1-NC assembly, involving the flexible hinge connecting the two domains. This difference was verified via engineered disulfide crosslinking, revealing that inter-hexamer contacts, in particular those at the pseudo three-fold axis, are altered in the CA-SP1-NC assemblies compared to the CA assemblies. Results from crosslinking analyses of mature and immature HIV-1 particles containing the same Cys substitutions in the Gag protein are consistent with these findings. We further show that cleavage of preassembled CA-SP1-NC by HIV-1 protease in vitro leads to release of SP1 and NC without disassembly of the lattice. Collectively, our results indicate that the proteolytic cleavage of Gag leads to a structural reorganization of the polypeptide and creates the three-fold interhexamer interface, important for the formation of infectious HIV-1 particles. {\copyright} 2012 Meng et al.} } @article{pittir29882, volume = {9}, month = {January}, title = {Quantitative classification of pediatric swallowing through accelerometry.}, author = {C Merey and A Kushki and E Sejdi{\'c} and G Berall and T Chau}, year = {2012}, pages = {34 -- ?}, journal = {Journal of neuroengineering and rehabilitation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29882/}, abstract = {Dysphagia or swallowing disorder negatively impacts a child's health and development. The gold standard of dysphagia detection is videofluoroscopy which exposes the child to ionizing radiation, and requires specialized clinical expertise and expensive institutionally-based equipment, precluding day-to-day and repeated assessment of fluctuating swallowing function. Swallowing accelerometry is the non-invasive measurement of cervical vibrations during swallowing and may provide a portable and cost-effective bedside alternative. In particular, dual-axis swallowing accelerometry has demonstrated screening potential in older persons with neurogenic dysphagia, but the technique has not been evaluated in the pediatric population. In this study, dual-axis accelerometric signals were collected simultaneous to videofluoroscopic records from 29 pediatric participants (age 6.8 {$\pm$} 4.8 years; 20 males) previously diagnosed with neurogenic dysphagia. Participants swallowed 3-5 sips of barium-coated boluses of different consistencies (normally, from thick puree to thin liquid) by spoon or bottle. Videofluoroscopic records were reviewed retrospectively by a clinical expert to extract swallow timings and ratings. The dual-axis acceleration signals corresponding to each identified swallow were pre-processed, segmented and trimmed prior to feature extraction from time, frequency, time-frequency and information theoretic domains. Feature space dimensionality was reduced via principal components. Using 8-fold cross-validation, 16-17 dimensions and a support vector machine classifier with an RBF kernel, an adjusted accuracy of 89.6\% {$\pm$} 0.9 was achieved for the discrimination between swallows with and with out airway entry. Our results suggest that dual-axis accelerometry has merit in the non-invasive detection of unsafe swallows in children and deserves further consideration as a pediatric medical device.} } @article{pittir17864, volume = {14}, number = {11}, month = {June}, author = {E Merling and V Lamm and SJ Geib and E Lac{\^o}te and DP Curran}, title = {[3+2]-Dipolar cycloaddition reactions of an N-heterocyclic carbene boryl azide}, journal = {Organic Letters}, pages = {2690 -- 2693}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17864/}, abstract = {Thermal 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reactions of 1,3-bis(2,6- diisopropylphenyl)imidazol-2-ylidene dihydridoboron azide occur smoothly with alkynes, nitriles, and alkenes bearing electron-withdrawing groups. New, stable NHC-boryl-substituted triazoles, tetrazoles, and triazolidines are formed in good to excellent yields. {\copyright} 2012 American Chemical Society.} } @unpublished{pittir13241, month = {September}, title = {INHIBITORY CONTROL AND WORKING MEMORY IN CHILDREN ADOPTED FROM PSYCHOSOCIALLY DEPRIVING INSTITUTIONS}, author = {Emily Claire Merz}, year = {2012}, keywords = {post-institutionalized children, inhibitory control, working memory, early deprivation, executive function }, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13241/}, abstract = {Children adopted internationally from institutions at older ages who were exposed to early psychosocial deprivation may have deficits in executive functioning (EF) which are related to their increased risk of attention and academic difficulties. This study examined inhibitory control and working memory in 8- to 17-year-old children adopted from psychosocially depriving Russian institutions after 14 months of age (n=34) and those adopted before 9 months (n=39). Children completed inhibitory control and working memory tasks, while their parents completed questionnaires on child attention problems and use of learning support services in school. Children adopted after 14 months of age were found to perform poorly on inhibitory control and working memory tasks relative to children adopted before 9 months of age after controlling for age at assessment. Significant group differences were found for the stop-signal, go/no-go, and spatial span tasks but not the spatial working memory, backward digit recall, or flanker tasks. Children adopted after 14 months also had significantly lower IQ than those adopted before 9 months, and they performed poorly on the stop-signal and spatial span tasks compared to never-institutionalized children from previous studies. Spatial span and stop-signal task performance was associated with parent-rated hyperactivity-impulsivity but not with inattention or the use of learning support services. These findings suggest that exposure to early psychosocial deprivation may be linked with deficits in inhibitory control and spatial working memory that are associated with persistent attention problems. These results may inform studies of neural development and the selection of services for children exposed to early deprivation.} } @article{pittir16005, volume = {38}, number = {4}, month = {April}, author = {J Mesquida and C Espinal and G Gruartmoner and J Masip and C Sabatier and F Baigorri and MR Pinsky and A Artigas}, title = {Prognostic implications of tissue oxygen saturation in human septic shock}, journal = {Intensive Care Medicine}, pages = {592 -- 597}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16005/}, abstract = {Purpose: To analyze the prognostic value of tissue oxygen saturation (StO2) in septic shock patients with restored mean arterial pressure (MAP). Methods: This was a prospective observational study of patients admitted to the ICU in the early phase of septic shock, after restoration of MAP. Demographic data, severity score, hemodynamics, blood lactate, acid-base status, and StO2 were measured at inclusion followed by a transient vascular occlusion test (VOT) to obtain the StO2-deoxygenation (DeOx) and StO2-reoxygenation (ReOx) rates. Sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score was measured at inclusion and after 24 h. Results: Thirty-three patients were studied. StO2 was 76 {$\pm$} 10\%, DeOx -12.2 {$\pm$} 4.2\%/min, and ReOx 3.02 {$\pm$} 1.70\%/s. MAP showed a significant correlation with VOT-derived slopes (r = -0.4, p = 0.04 for DeOx; and r = 0.55, p{$\backslash$}0.01 for ReOx). After 24 h, 17 patients (52\%) had improved SOFA scores. Patients who did not improve their SOFA showed less negative DeOx values at inclusion. The association between DeOx and SOFA evolution was not affected by MAP. Both DeOx and ReOx impairment correlated with longer ICU stay (r = 0.44, p = 0.05; and r = -0.43, p = 0.05, respectively). Conclusions: In a population of septic shock patients with restored MAP, impaired DeOx was associated with no improvement in organ failures after 24 h. Decrements in DeOx and ReOx were associated with longer ICU stay. DeOx and ReOx were linked to MAP, and thus, their interpretation needs to be made relative to MAP. {\copyright} Copyright jointly held by Springer and ESICM 2012.} } @incollection{pittir16026, booktitle = {Applied Physiology in Intensive Care Medicine 1: Physiological Notes - Technical Notes - Seminal Studies in Intensive Care, Third Edition}, month = {January}, title = {Effect of tidal volume, intrathoracic pressure, and cardiac contractility on variations in pulse pressure, stroke volume, and intrathoracic blood volume}, author = {J Mesquida and HK Kim and MG Pinsky}, year = {2012}, pages = {255 -- 262}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16026/}, abstract = {Purpose: We evaluated the impact of increasing tidal volume (Vt), decreased chest wall compliance, and left ventricular (LV) contractility during intermittent positive pressure ventilation (IPPV) on the relation between pulse pressure (PP) and LV stroke volume (SVLV) variation (PPV and SVV, respectively), and intrathoracic blood volume (ITBV) changes. Methods: Sixteen pentobarbitalanesthetized thoracotomized mongrel dogs were studied both before and after propranolol-induced acute ventricular failure (AVF) (n = 4), with and without chest and abdominal pneumatic binders to decrease chest wall compliance (n = 6), and during Vt of 5, 10, 15, and 25 ml/kg (n = 6). Svlv and right ventricular stroke volume (SVRV) were derived from electromagnetic flow probes around aortic and pulmonary artery roots. Arterial pressure was measured in the aorta using a fluid-filled catheter. Arterial PPV and SVV were calculated over three breaths as (max - min)/[(max + min)/2]. Itbv changes during ventilation were inferred from the beat-to-beat volume differences between SVRV and SVLV. Results: Arterial PP and SVLV were tightly correlated during IPPV under all conditions (r2 = 0.85). Both PPV and SVV increased progressively as Vt increased and with thoraco-abdominal binding, and tended to decrease during AVF. SvRV phasically decreased during inspiration, whereas SVLV phasically decreased 2-3 beats later, such that ITBV decreased during inspiration and returned to apneic values during expiration. Itbv decrements increased with increasing Vt or with thoraco-abdominal binding, and decreased during AVF owing to variations in SVRV, such that both PPV and SVV tightly correlated with inspiration-associated changes in SVRV and ITBV. Conclusion: Arterial PP and SVLV are tightly correlated during IPPV and their relation is not altered by selective changes in LV contractility, intrathoracic pressure, or Vt. However, contractility, intrathoracic pressure, and Vt directly alter the magnitude of PPV and SVV primarily by altering the inspiration-associated decreases in SVRV and ITBV.} } @article{pittir29949, volume = {2}, number = {4}, month = {February}, author = {Berhane Messay and Alvin Lim and Anna L Marsland}, note = {Competing interests: The authors declare that they have no competing interests. Authors' contributions: BM conducted an up to date review of the relevant literature and wrote the initial draft of the manuscript. ALM edited the manuscript and made substantial revisions. AL read, contributed relevant research, and provided feedback on early and final versions of the manuscript. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.}, title = {Current understanding of the bi-directional relationship of major depression with inflammation}, publisher = {BioMed Central Ltd.}, year = {2012}, journal = {Biology of Mood \& Anxiety Disorders}, keywords = {depression, "negative, affect:, inflammation, inflammator, y, markers, cytokines}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29949/}, abstract = {Consistent evidence links major depression and its affective components to negative health outcomes. Although the pathways of these effects are likely complex and multifactorial, recent evidence suggests that innate inflammatory processes may play a role. An overview of current literature suggests that pathways between negative moods and inflammation are bi-directional. Indeed, negative moods activate peripheral physiologic mechanisms that result in an up regulation of systemic levels of inflammation. Conversely, peripheral inflammatory mediators signal the brain to affect behavioral, affective and cognitive changes that are consistent with symptoms of major depressive disorder. It is likely that these pathways are part of a complex feedback loop that involves the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems and plays a role in the modulation of peripheral inflammatory responses to central and peripheral stimuli, in central responses to peripheral immune activation and in the maintenance of homeostatic balance. Further research is warranted to fully understand the role of central processes in this feedback loop, which likely contributes to the pathophysiology of mental and physical health.} } @article{pittir20850, volume = {18}, number = {17-18}, month = {September}, author = {LB Meszaros and A Usas and GM Cooper and J Huard}, title = {Effect of host sex and sex hormones on muscle-derived stem cell-mediated bone formation and defect healing}, journal = {Tissue Engineering - Part A}, pages = {1751 -- 1759}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20850/}, abstract = {Muscle-derived stem cells (MDSCs) are known to exhibit sexual dimorphism, by donor sex, of osteogenic, chondrogenic, and myogenic differentiation potential in vitro. Moreover, host sex differences in the myogenic capacity of MDSCs in vivo are also observed. This study investigated the role of host sex and host sex hormones in MDSC-mediated bone formation and healing. Using unaltered male, castrated male, unaltered female, and ovariectomized female mice, both MDSC-mediated ectopic bone formation and cranial defect healing were examined. Male hosts, whether unaltered or castrated, form significantly larger volumes of MDSC-mediated ectopic bone than female hosts (either unaltered or ovariectomized), and no differences in ectopic bone volume were found between hosts of the same sex. In a cranial defect healing model, similar results were found-unaltered and castrated male hosts display larger volumes of bone formed when compared with unaltered and ovariectomized female hosts. However, in this healing model, some volume differences were found between hosts of the same sex. In both models, these differences were attributed to varying rates of endochondral bone formation in male and female hosts. {\copyright} Copyright 2012, Mary Ann Liebert, Inc.} } @unpublished{pittir13018, month = {September}, title = {Cardiovascular responses to stress: a potential pathway linking sleep and cardiovascular disease?}, author = {Elizabeth Jane Mezick}, year = {2012}, keywords = {cardiovascular reactivity}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13018/}, abstract = {Reports of short sleep are related to incident cardiovascular (CV) disease. Previous data suggest that changes in basal autonomic activity may be one pathway through which habitually short sleep increases CV risk. No studies have examined whether chronic, moderate sleep loss is related to acute, autonomic responses to stressful stimuli in healthy populations. This study compared CV responses to psychological stressors in a group of undergraduate men reporting habitual sleep duration of {$\leq$}6 hours per night (n = 37) versus those reporting habitual duration of 7-8 hours per night (n = 42). Wrist actigraphy was used to assess total sleep time and sleep efficiency based on mobility for one week prior to CV stress testing. Laboratory stress tests included two computer tasks (Stroop color-word interference task and a numeric multisource interference task) and preparation and delivery of a speech while heart rate (HR) and blood pressure (BP) were monitored. Reactivity and recovery indices of HR, high-frequency heart rate variability (HF-HRV), and BP were created by regressing task and post-task values, respectively, on baseline values. Participants reporting {$\leq$}6 hours of sleep per night rated stress tasks as more arousing, and they had delayed HR recovery, compared to those reporting 7-8 hours of sleep; the two groups did not differ in any of the other CV parameters. After adjusting for age, race, body mass index, health behaviors, and psychosocial factors, shorter actigraphy-assessed sleep was related to greater HF-HRV withdrawal during stress tasks, and delayed HR and diastolic BP stress recovery. Decreased actigraphy-assessed sleep efficiency was related to greater HF-HRV withdrawal during stress and delayed HR recovery. Associations between sleep and HF-HRV were independent of respiration rate. Links between sleep and delayed HR recovery were no longer significant after adjusting for actigraphy-assessed daytime naps. In sum, healthy young men with shorter actigraphy-assessed sleep exhibit less vagal inhibition, and prolonged HR and diastolic BP recovery, upon encountering stressful stimuli. Such responses may have pathophysiological CV effects, and, thus, may be one mechanism linking short sleep to CV outcomes. } } @unpublished{pittir13230, month = {September}, title = {Acute Affective Responses to Varying Durations of Physical Activity for Overweight and Obese Adults }, author = {Julie Catherine Michael}, year = {2012}, keywords = {physical activity, positive affect, negative affect, obesity}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13230/}, abstract = {Although participation in physical activity has multiple physical and psychological health benefits, many people continue to be inactive (Tucker, Welk, \& Beyler, 2011). Affect, or expressed emotion, throughout an exercise session has been shown to influence compliance to regular physical activity (Williams et al., 2008). National guidelines recommend 30 minutes or more of daily moderate-intensity physical activity, which may be performed in one session or in multiple bouts of at least 10 minutes in duration (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2008). The current study investigated positive affect (PA) and negative affect (NA) in response to moderate-intensity exercise for 10 minutes (EX-10), 40 minutes (EX-40), and a 40-minute resting session (REST). Healthy, overweight and obese women (n = 28, BMI = 32.59{$\pm$}4.25 kg/m2) participated in the exercise and resting sessions in a randomized, counterbalanced order. Findings showed that PA, but not NA, was significantly influenced by acute bouts of exercise across durations. Specifically, PA over time differed for EX-10 vs. REST and EX-40 vs. REST, respectively, but PA over time did not differ between EX-10 and EX-40. Additional analyses indicated that the intensity of positive affective responses after EX-40 also influenced subsequent caloric intake in an ad libitum eating task. Because both 10-minute and 40-minute bouts increased PA, both are viable options for improving PA and possibly increasing compliance for overweight and obese women within national activity recommendations. Furthermore, preliminary findings indicate that improvement in PA after longer durations of exercise may favorably influence subsequent eating behavior. } } @article{pittir12687, volume = {7}, number = {7}, month = {July}, title = {A pro-cathepsin L mutant is a luminal substrate for endoplasmic-reticulum-associated degradation in C. elegans}, author = {MT Miedel and NJ Graf and KE Stephen and OS Long and SC Pak and DH Perlmutter and GA Silverman and CJ Luke}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12687/}, abstract = {Endoplasmic-reticulum associated degradation (ERAD) is a major cellular misfolded protein disposal pathway that is well conserved from yeast to mammals. In yeast, a mutant of carboxypeptidase Y (CPY*) was found to be a luminal ER substrate and has served as a useful marker to help identify modifiers of the ERAD pathway. Due to its ease of genetic manipulation and the ability to conduct a genome wide screen for modifiers of molecular pathways, C. elegans has become one of the preferred metazoans for studying cell biological processes, such as ERAD. However, a marker of ERAD activity comparable to CPY* has not been developed for this model system. We describe a mutant of pro-cathepsin L fused to YFP that no longer targets to the lysosome, but is efficiently eliminated by the ERAD pathway. Using this mutant pro-cathepsin L, we found that components of the mammalian ERAD system that participate in the degradation of ER luminal substrates were conserved in C. elegans. This transgenic line will facilitate high-throughput genetic or pharmacological screens for ERAD modifiers using widefield epifluorescence microscopy. {\copyright} 2012 Miedel et al.} } @article{pittir20883, volume = {21}, number = {8}, month = {November}, author = {Y Mifune and T Matsumoto and S Ota and M Nishimori and A Usas and S Kopf and R Kuroda and M Kurosaka and FH Fu and J Huard}, title = {Therapeutic potential of anterior cruciate ligament-derived stem cells for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction}, journal = {Cell Transplantation}, pages = {1651 -- 1665}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20883/}, abstract = {We recently reported that the ruptured regions of the human anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) contained vascular- derived stem cells, which showed the potential for high expansion and multilineage differentiation. In this study, we performed experiments to test the hypothesis that ACL-derived CD34+ cells could contribute to tendon-bone healing. ACL-derived cells were isolated from the rupture site of human ACL by fluorescenceactivated cell sorting. Following ACL reconstruction, immunodeficient rats received intracapsular administration of either ACL-derived CD34+ cells, nonsorted (NS) cells, CD34+ cells, or phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). We also performed in vitro cell proliferation assays and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) secretion. We confirmed the recruitment of the transplanted cells into the perigraft site after intracapuslar injection by immunohistochemical staining at week 1. Histological evaluation showed a greater area of collagen fiber formation and more collagen type II expression in the CD34+ group than the other groups at the week 2 time point. Immunostaining with isolectin B4 and rat osteocalcin demonstrated enhanced angiogenesis and osteogenesis in the CD34+ group at week 2. Moreover, double immunohistochemical staining for human-specific endothelial cell (EC) and osteoblast (OB) markers at week 2 demonstrated a greater ability of differentiation into ECs and OBs in the CD34+ group. Microcomputerized tomography showed the greatest healing of perigraft bone at week 4 in the CD34+ cell group, and the failure load of tensile test at week 8 demonstrated the greatest biomechanical strength in the CD34+ group. Furthermore, the in vitro studies indicated that the CD34+ group was superior to the other groups in their cell proliferation and VEGF secretion capacities. We demonstrated that ACL-derived CD34+ cells contributed to the tendon-bone healing after ACL reconstruction via the enhancement of angiogenesis and osteogenesis, which also contributed to an increase in biomechanical strength. {\copyright} 2012 Cognizant Comm. Corp.} } @article{pittir19360, volume = {52}, number = {1}, month = {January}, author = {R Miller}, title = {Damn the Recession, Full Speed Ahead}, journal = {Journal of Library Administration}, pages = {3 -- 17}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19360/}, abstract = {Academic libraries have undergone an evolutionary change as emerging technologies have impacted operations and services during the past two decades. For much of this period, increasing budgets have enabled libraries to keep pace with needed change. For the past two years, many academic libraries have lost significant funding due to the economic recession. This article argues that it is not a time for retrenchment and timidity but for expansion and boldness for academic libraries. The library that thrives, even in the midst of a recession, will be the one which seizes the opportunity to redesign itself for the future. {\copyright} 2012 Copyright Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.} } @unpublished{pittir12733, month = {September}, title = {Albumin in Artificial Liver Support Systems}, author = {Richard H. Miller}, year = {2012}, keywords = {ALSS, ALF, ACLF, tacrolimus, OLTx, Matlab}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12733/}, abstract = {While liver transplantation is the only accepted therapy for liver failure, bound solute dialysis (BSD) may provide an alternative. Current BSD methods, MARS and SPAD, are unfortunately poorly characterized. The studies presented here address basic questions involved in making BSD effective. First, Biacore surface plasmon resonance (SPR) was used to measure binding and reaction rate constants of albumin-solute pairs relevant to designing and testing BSD systems. Much is known about albumin equilibrium binding properties, but little is known regarding albumin-solute binding kinetics. Additionally, testing and clinical application of BSD systems are often done at different temperatures (i.e. room temperature (22?C) and body temperature (37?C)), and changes in reaction rates and binding constants with temperature need to be considered. Human and bovine serum albumin were immobilized on Biacore sensor chip surfaces, and reacting solutes (bilirubin, FK506, cyclosporine A, cholate, deoxycholate, and glycocholate) flowed across the surfaces. The SPR response was tracked during the association and dissociation of the albumin-solute complex. Reactions were performed at 22?C and 37?C. Equilibrium constants consistent with previously reported values and reaction rates were determined for all reactions tested except cyclosporine A. Second, I developed a mathematical model describing the removal of albumin bound solutes using BSD that incorporates albumin-solute reaction kinetics. Previous BSD models focused on the amount of binder in the dialysate, ultrafiltration, and the use of solid adsorbents. The new model relaxes the assumption of reaction equilibrium built into previous BSD models. For a given equilibrium binding constant and set of mass transport parameters, the model was solved for several reaction rates. In all cases tested, the equilibrium BSD model overestimated removal compared to the kinetic model, but the kinetic model displayed greater numerical instability. A third project explored methods to direct visualize protein deposition in and on commercial dialysis membranes during use. A novel slide dialyzer design incorporating commercial renal dialyzer membranes was developed and tested.} } @inproceedings{pittir30124, month = {June}, author = {Weldon Miller and Robert Kaniecki}, note = {Competing Interests: No competing interests were disclosed}, booktitle = {54th American Headache Society Annual Meeting 2012}, title = {Resource utilization in patients with migraine headache with and without concomitant depression and anxiety}, publisher = {F1000 Research Ltd.}, journal = {F1000 Research}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/30124/}, abstract = {It is well established that migraine headache is associated with anxiety and depression. However, this has never been explored with regards to resource utilization. Chronic migraine seems to increase emergency department visitation, while anxiety and depression do not seem to have clear correlations to resource utilization.} } @incollection{pittir19161, month = {September}, title = {Clustering and Classification Methods}, author = {Glenn W Milligan and Stephen C Hirtle}, publisher = {John Wiley \& Sons, Inc.}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19161/} } @article{pittir14179, volume = {7}, number = {4}, month = {April}, title = {A genome-wide association study of total Bilirubin and Cholelithiasis risk in sickle cell anemia}, author = {JN Milton and P Sebastiani and N Solovieff and SW Hartley and P Bhatnagar and DE Arking and DA Dworkis and JF Casella and E Barron-Casella and CJ Bean and WC Hooper and MR DeBaun and ME Garrett and K Soldano and MJ Telen and A Ashley-Koch and MT Gladwin and CT Baldwin and MH Steinberg and ES Klings}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14179/}, abstract = {Serum bilirubin levels have been associated with polymorphisms in the UGT1A1 promoter in normal populations and in patients with hemolytic anemias, including sickle cell anemia. When hemolysis occurs circulating heme increases, leading to elevated bilirubin levels and an increased incidence of cholelithiasis. We performed the first genome-wide association study (GWAS) of bilirubin levels and cholelithiasis risk in a discovery cohort of 1,117 sickle cell anemia patients. We found 15 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with total bilirubin levels at the genome-wide significance level (p value {\ensuremath{<}}5{$\times$}10-8). SNPs in UGT1A1, UGT1A3, UGT1A6, UGT1A8 and UGT1A10, different isoforms within the UGT1A locus, were identified (most significant rs887829, p = 9.08{$\times$}10-25). All of these associations were validated in 4 independent sets of sickle cell anemia patients. We tested the association of the 15 SNPs with cholelithiasis in the discovery cohort and found a significant association (most significant p value 1.15{$\times$}10-4). These results confirm that the UGT1A region is the major regulator of bilirubin metabolism in African Americans with sickle cell anemia, similar to what is observed in other ethnicities. {\copyright} 2012 Milton et al.} } @unpublished{pittir12994, month = {July}, title = {The receptor for advanced glycation end products is a central mediator of asthma pathogenesis}, author = {Pavle Milutinovic}, year = {2012}, keywords = {RAGE; lung biology; asthma; allergy; immunology; Th2}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12994/}, abstract = {The receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) is a multiligand, cell surface receptor. Isolated from lung, the organ in which it is most abundant, RAGE has since been shown to be a pro-inflammatory mediator in the pathogenesis of diabetes, atherosclerosis, rheumatic and neurodegenerative syndromes, and cancer. However, despite its localization, the role of RAGE in asthma and allergic airway disease is largely unknown. The studies described herein explore RAGE?s effect on disease phenotype using several different models of allergic airway disease/asthma in mice, with house dust mite extract or ovalbumin as the provoking allergen. Respiratory mechanics were assessed using mechanical ventilation and the forced oscillation technique; bronchovascular architecture and airway remodeling were evaluated using general histochemical stains. Expression of RAGE, immunoglobulin, and relevant cytokines was characterized by standard protein detection methods and/or real-time PCR, while immunohistofluorescence microscopy was used to determine the cellular localization of proteins of interest. In both house dust mite and ovalbumin models of chronic allergic airway disease/asthma, the absence of RAGE abolishes most assessed measures of pathology, including airway hypersensitivity (resistance, tissue damping, and elastance), eosinophilic inflammation, and mucus hypersecretion. IL-17 demonstrates complex regulation, with elevated baseline expression in RAGE knockouts, but no induction in response to allergen challenge. IL-4 and IL-25 secretion, immunoglobulin isotype class switching and antigen recognition are intact in the absence of RAGE. In contrast, allergen-induced up-regulation of eotaxin, eotaxin-2, IL-5, IL-13, and IL-33 is abrogated in RAGE?s absence. RAGE?s soluble isoform is a decoy receptor that impedes ligand binding to the membrane isoform and thus downstream signaling. Soluble RAGE (sRAGE) has been efficacious in ameliorating disease in a broad array of models in which the membrane RAGE isoform is thought to be involved. Because few studies have explored the use of this agent in the lung, clearance and biodistribution studies were performed, exploring three common routes of administration; intratracheal delivery was found to be substantially superior to other modes. sRAGE was used as a therapeutic in an animal model of asthma and was shown to markedly reduce inflammation, suggesting that inhibition of RAGE may serve as a promising therapeutic strategy.} } @article{pittir29967, volume = {9}, month = {January}, title = {Selective targeting of microglia by quantum dots}, author = {SS Minami and B Sun and K Popat and T Kauppinen and M Pleiss and Y Zhou and ME Ward and P Floreancig and L Mucke and T Desai and L Gan}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of Neuroinflammation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29967/}, abstract = {Background: Microglia, the resident immune cells of the brain, have been implicated in brain injury and various neurological disorders. However, their precise roles in different pathophysiological situations remain enigmatic and may range from detrimental to protective. Targeting the delivery of biologically active compounds to microglia could help elucidate these roles and facilitate the therapeutic modulation of microglial functions in neurological diseases.Methods: Here we employ primary cell cultures and stereotaxic injections into mouse brain to investigate the cell type specific localization of semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) in vitro and in vivo. Two potential receptors for QDs are identified using pharmacological inhibitors and neutralizing antibodies.Results: In mixed primary cortical cultures, QDs were selectively taken up by microglia; this uptake was decreased by inhibitors of clathrin-dependent endocytosis, implicating the endosomal pathway as the major route of entry for QDs into microglia. Furthermore, inhibiting mannose receptors and macrophage scavenger receptors blocked the uptake of QDs by microglia, indicating that QD uptake occurs through microglia-specific receptor endocytosis. When injected into the brain, QDs were taken up primarily by microglia and with high efficiency. In primary cortical cultures, QDs conjugated to the toxin saporin depleted microglia in mixed primary cortical cultures, protecting neurons in these cultures against amyloid beta-induced neurotoxicity.Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that QDs can be used to specifically label and modulate microglia in primary cortical cultures and in brain and may allow for the selective delivery of therapeutic agents to these cells. {\copyright} 2012 Minami et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir29791, volume = {2}, month = {August}, title = {Sleep quality and neural circuit function supporting emotion regulation.}, author = {Jared D Minkel and Kristin McNealy and Peter J Gianaros and Emily M Drabant and James J Gross and Stephen B Manuck and Ahmad R Hariri}, year = {2012}, pages = {22 -- ?}, journal = {Biol Mood Anxiety Disord}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29791/}, abstract = {UNLABELLED: BACKGROUND: Recent laboratory studies employing an extended sleep deprivation model have mapped sleep-related changes in behavior onto functional alterations in specific brain regions supporting emotion, suggesting possible biological mechanisms for an association between sleep difficulties and deficits in emotion regulation. However, it is not yet known if similar behavioral and neural changes are associated with the more modest variability in sleep observed in daily life. METHODS: We examined relationships between sleep and neural circuitry of emotion using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and fMRI data from a widely used emotion regulation task focusing on cognitive reappraisal of negative emotional stimuli in an unselected sample of 97 adult volunteers (48 women; mean age 42.78{$\pm$}7.37 years, range 30-54 years old). RESULTS: Emotion regulation was associated with greater activation in clusters located in the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex (dmPFC), left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC), and inferior parietal cortex. Only one subscale from the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, use of sleep medications, was related to BOLD responses in the dmPFC and dlPFC during cognitive reappraisal. Use of sleep medications predicted lesser BOLD responses during reappraisal, but other aspects of sleep, including sleep duration and subjective sleep quality, were not related to neural activation in this paradigm. CONCLUSIONS: The relatively modest variability in sleep that is common in the general community is unlikely to cause significant disruption in neural circuits supporting reactivity or regulation by cognitive reappraisal of negative emotion. Use of sleep medication however, may influence emotion regulation circuitry, but additional studies are necessary to determine if such use plays a causal role in altering emotional responses.} } @unpublished{pittir13475, month = {September}, title = {The Effect of 10- Versus 30-Minutes of Acute Aerobic Exercise on Insulin and Glucose in Obese Adults}, author = {Anne Mishler}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Exercise, Obese, Insulin, Glucose}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13475/}, abstract = {Introduction: Obesity is associated with insulin resistance often accompanied by hyperinsulinemia and hyperglycemia, placing obese individuals at risk for type 2 diabetes and other chronic diseases. Acute exercise is associated with a decrease in postprandial insulin and glucose, but it is unknown how exercise of varying duration affects these variables. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare changes in postprandial insulin and glucose following 10-minutes (10-EX) and 30-minutes (30-EX) of aerobic exercise to a resting (REST) condition. Methods: 9 healthy, sedentary obese men and women (BMI: 33.6{$\pm$}3.2 kg/m2; Age: 45.3{$\pm$}5.7 years) each performed 10-EX, 30-EX and REST in a randomized fashion. Blood was collected in the fasting state, and at 30-minute intervals following breakfast for 120-minutes. All exercise sessions were performed at 70-75\% maximal heart rate. Results: Data was collected at all time points for five subjects, which were included in area under the curve (AUC) analyses. There was no significant difference in plasma insulin AUC between REST (12,270{$\pm$}6,148), 10-EX (10,633{$\pm$}5,162), and 30-EX (11,479{$\pm$}4,810) (p=0.354). There was no significant difference in plasma glucose AUC between REST (23,184{$\pm$}6,023), 10-EX (21,735{$\pm$}2,680), and 30-EX (22,899{$\pm$}3,328) (p=0.554). However, the patterns of change were not consistent across experimental conditions. A significant main effect for condition (p=0.018) was detected at 60-MIN for insulin, with lower insulin observed in 30-EX (32.3{$\pm$}12.3) compared to 10-EX (66.8{$\pm$}30.3) or REST (94.9{$\pm$}48.0). Insulin rebounded following exercise and was significantly higher at 120-MIN in 30-EX (74.3{$\pm$}45.2) compared to REST (55.4{$\pm$}45.7) (p=0.042). Plasma glucose followed a similar pattern, and a significant main effect was observed at 90-MIN (p=0.037) at was elevated in 30-EX (147.6{$\pm$}29.0) compared to 10-EX (122.2{$\pm$}21.5) or REST (121.4{$\pm$}38.0). Conclusion: There was no significant difference in plasma insulin or glucose AUC between 10-EX, 30-EX and REST, but pattern of change was not consistent across conditions. Additional research should explore if differences in pattern of change following 10- or 30-minutes of exercise affect health outcomes in obese adults.} } @unpublished{pittir12296, month = {June}, title = {BIOPHYSICAL MECHANISMS OF AMYLOID NUCLEATION IN POLYGLUTAMINE CONTAINING HTT FRAGMENTS}, author = {Rakesh Mishra}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Amyloid, Huntington's disease, protein aggregation, polyglutamine, huntingtin}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12296/}, abstract = {Huntington?s disease, one of nine CAG repeat diseases, is triggered by an expansion of a polyglutamine (polyQ) tract in the huntingtin (htt) protein. The aggregation of the first exon of htt (and fragments thereof) is believed to be intricately tied to the pathology of Huntington?s disease. Recent work in the field has identified a crucial role for the first seventeen residues of huntingtin (httNT), implicated in a wide range of cellular processes, in modulating the aggregation of htt both in vitro and in vivo. The focus of this work has been to identify the biophysical mechanisms underlying httNT mediated aggregation. Using a combination of experimental and computational techniques, we demonstrate the crucial role of the amphipathic helical propensity of httNT in mediating initial oligomerization of htt fragments and by extension, the aggregation of polyQ containing htt fragments. We also assess the effect of post-translational modifications (PTMs) within the httNT sequence on the aggregation of htt fragments, providing a biophysical perspective to the role that these PTMs might play in HD pathology. Finally, in addition to the role of httNT in directing the initial oligomerization of htt fragments, we also provide evidence for a role of polyQ expansion in stabilizing htt fragment oligomers. Overall, the results of these studies not only add to our understanding of htt exon-1 aggregation but also provide additional clues for the ultimate role that aggregation plays in HD pathology.} } @unpublished{pittir6196, month = {February}, title = {Efficient branch and node testing}, author = {Jonathan Misurda}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Structural Testing, Demand-driven Instrumentation, Software Testing, Coverage, Testing, Branch Coverage, Node Coverage}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/6196/}, abstract = {Software testing evaluates the correctness of a program?s implementation through a test suite. The quality of a test case or suite is assessed with a coverage metric indicating what percentage of a program?s structure was exercised (covered) during execution. Coverage of every execution path is impossible due to infeasible paths and loops that result in an exponential or infinite number of paths. Instead, metrics such as the number of statements (nodes) or control-flow branches covered are used. Node and branch coverage require instrumentation probes to be present during program runtime. Traditionally, probes were statically inserted during compilation. These static probes remain even after coverage is recorded, incurring unnecessary overhead, reducing the number of tests that can be run, or requiring large amounts of memory In this dissertation, I present three novel techniques for improving branch and node coverage performance for the Java runtime. First, Demand-driven Structural Testing (DDST) uses dynamic insertion and removal of probes so they can be removed after recording coverage, avoiding the unnecessary overhead of static instrumentation. DDST is built on a new framework for developing and researching coverage techniques, Jazz. DDST for node coverage averages 19.7\% faster than statically-inserted instrumentation on an industry-standard benchmark suite, SPECjvm98. Due to DDST?s higher-cost probes, no single branch coverage technique performs best on all programs or methods. To address this, I developed Hybrid Structural Testing (HST). HST combines different test techniques, including static and DDST, into one run. HST uses a cost model for analysis, reducing the cost of branch coverage testing an average of 48\% versus Static and 56\% versus DDST on SPECjvm98. HST never chooses certain techniques due to expensive analysis. I developed a third technique, Test Plan Caching (TPC), that exploits the inherent repetition in testing over a suite. TPC saves analysis results to avoid recomputation. Combined with HST, TPC produces a mix of techniques that record coverage quickly and efficiently. My three techniques reduce the average cost of branch coverage by 51.6?90.8\% over previous approaches on SPECjvm98, allowing twice as many test cases in a given time budget.} } @article{pittir15992, volume = {33}, number = {2}, month = {June}, author = {GR Mitchell and KM McTigue}, title = {Translation through argumentation in medical research and physician-citizenship}, journal = {Journal of Medical Humanities}, pages = {83 -- 107}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15992/}, abstract = {While many "benchtop-to-bedside" research pathways have been developed in "Type I" translational medicine, vehicles to facilitate "Type II" and "Type III" translation that convert scientific data into clinical and community interventions designed to improve the health of human populations remain elusive. Further, while a high percentage of physicians endorse the principle of citizen leadership, many have difficulty practicing it. This discrepancy has been attributed, in part, to lack of training and preparation for public advocacy, time limitation, and institutional resistance. As translational medicine and physician-citizenship implicate social, political, economic and cultural factors, both enterprises require "integrative" research strategies that blend insights from multiple fields of study, as well as rhetorical acumen in adapting messages to reach multiple audiences. This article considers how argumentation theory's epistemological flexibility, audience attentiveness, and heuristic qualities, combined with concepts from classical rhetoric, such as rhetorical invention, the synecdoche, and ethos, yield tools to facilitate translational medicine and enable physician-citizenship. {\copyright} 2012 Springer Science+Business Media, LLC.} } @article{pittir15597, volume = {7}, number = {7}, month = {July}, title = {Requirement for a Uroplakin 3a-like protein in the development of zebrafish pronephric tubule epithelial cell function, morphogenesis, and polarity}, author = {S Mitra and S Lukianov and WG Ruiz and C Cosentino and S Sanker and LM Traub and NA Hukriede and G Apodaca}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15597/}, abstract = {Uroplakin (UP)3a is critical for urinary tract development and function; however, its role in these processes is unknown. We examined the function of the UP3a-like protein Upk3l, which was expressed at the apical surfaces of the epithelial cells that line the pronephric tubules (PTs) of the zebrafish pronephros. Embryos treated with upk3l-targeted morpholinos showed decreased pronephros function, which was attributed to defects in PT epithelial cell morphogenesis and polarization including: loss of an apical brush border and associated phospho-ERM proteins, apical redistribution of the basolateral Na+/K+-ATPase, and altered or diminished expression of the apical polarity complex proteins Prkcz (atypical protein kinase C zeta) and Pard3 (Par3). Upk3l missing its C-terminal cytoplasmic domain or containing mutations in conserved tyrosine or proline residues did not rescue, or only partially rescued the effects of Upk3l depletion. Our studies indicate that Upk3l promotes epithelial polarization and morphogenesis, likely by forming or stimulating interactions with cytoplasmic signaling or polarity proteins, and that defects in this process may underlie the pathology observed in UP3a knockout mice or patients with renal abnormalities that result from altered UP3a expression. {\copyright} 2012 Mitra et al.} } @article{pittir14143, volume = {7}, number = {2}, month = {February}, title = {Cooperation of p300 and PCAF in the control of microRNA 200c/141 transcription and epithelial characteristics}, author = {Y Mizuguchi and S Specht and JG Lunz and K Isse and N Corbitt and T Takizawa and AJ Demetris}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14143/}, abstract = {Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) not only occurs during embryonic development and in response to injury, but is an important element in cancer progression. EMT and its reverse process, mesenchymal to epithelial transition (MET) is controlled by a network of transcriptional regulators and can be influenced by posttranscriptional and posttranslational modifications. EMT/MET involves many effectors that can activate and repress these transitions, often yielding a spectrum of cell phenotypes. Recent studies have shown that the miR-200 family and the transcriptional suppressor ZEB1 are important contributors to EMT. Our previous data showed that forced expression of SPRR2a was a powerful inducer of EMT and supports the findings by others that SPRR gene members are highly upregulated during epithelial remodeling in a variety of organs. Here, using SPRR2a cells, we characterize the role of acetyltransferases on the microRNA-200c/141 promoter and their effect on the epithelial/mesenchymal status of the cells. We show that the deacetylase inhibitor TSA as well as P300 and PCAF can cause a shift towards epithelial characteristics in HUCCT-1-SPRR2a cells. We demonstrate that both P300 and PCAF act as cofactors for ZEB1, forming a P300/PCAF/ZEB1 complex on the miR200c/141 promoter. This binding results in lysine acetylation of ZEB1 and a release of ZEB1 suppression on miR-200c/141 transcription. Furthermore, disruption of P300 and PCAF interactions dramatically down regulates miR-200c/141 promoter activity, indicating a PCAF/P300 cooperative function in regulating the transcriptional suppressor/activator role of ZEB1. These data demonstrate a novel mechanism of miRNA regulation in mediating cell phenotype. {\copyright} 2012 Mizuguchi et al.} } @article{pittir29873, volume = {13}, month = {June}, title = {SPRR2A enhances p53 deacetylation through HDAC1 and down regulates p21 promoter activity}, author = {Y Mizuguchi and S Specht and JG Lunz and K Isse and N Corbitt and T Takizawa and AJ Demetris}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Molecular Biology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29873/}, abstract = {Background: Small proline rich protein (SPRR) 2A is one of 14 SPRR genes that encodes for a skin cross-linking protein, which confers structural integrity to the cornified keratinocyte cell envelope. New evidence, however, shows that SPRR2A is also a critical stress and wound repair modulator: it enables a variety of barrier epithelia to transiently acquire mesenchymal characteristics (EMT) and simultaneously quench reactive oxygen species during wound repair responses. p53 is also widely recognized as the node in cellular stress responses that inhibits EMT and triggers cell-cycle arrest, apoptosis, and cellular senescence. Since some p53-directed processes would seem to impede wound repair of barrier epithelia, we hypothesized that SPRR2A up regulation might counteract these effects and enable/promote wound repair under stressful environmental conditions.Results: Using a well characterized cholangiocarcinoma cell line we show that levels of SPRR2A expression, similar to that seen during stressful biliary wound repair responses, disrupts acetylation and subsequent p53 transcriptional activity. p53 deacetylation is accomplished via two distinct, but possibly related, mechanisms: 1) a reduction of p300 acetylation, thereby interfering with p300-p53 binding and subsequent p300 acetylation of K382 in p53; and 2) an increase in histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) mRNA and protein expression. The p300 CH3 domain is essential for both the autoacetylation of p300 and transference of the acetyl group to p53 and HDAC1 is a component of several non-p300 complexes that enhance p53 deacetylation, ubiquitination, and proteosomal degradation. HDAC1 can also bind the p300-CH3 domain, regulating p300 acetylation and interfering with p300 mediated p53 acetylation. The importance of this pathway is illustrated by showing complete restoration of p53 acetylation and partial restoration of p300 acetylation by treating SPRR2A expressing cells with HDAC1 siRNA.Conclusion: Up-regulation of SPRR2A, similar to that seen during barrier epithelia wound repair responses reduces p53 acetylation by interfering with p300-p53 interactions and by increasing HDAC1 expression. SPRR2A, therefore, functions as a suppressor of p53-dependent transcriptional activity, which otherwise might impede cellular processes needed for epithelial wound repair responses such as EMT. {\copyright} 2012 Mizuguchi et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir12107, month = {May}, title = {ENDOLYN SORTING AND FUNCTION DURING KIDNEY DEVELOPMENT}, author = {Di Mo}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Endolyn; N-glycosylation; Trafficking; Zebrafish pronephros; kidney development}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12107/}, abstract = {The polarity of epithelial cells is critical for proper function. Maintenance of polarity requires sustained proper sorting of proteins and lipids to either apical or basolateral membranes using distinct sorting signals. Compared to basolateral sorting signals, apical signals are not well characterized and can be present within the lumenal, transmembrane, or cytosolic regions of the protein. N-glycosylation has been identified as one of the apical sorting signals. The sialomucin endolyn (CD164) is a transmembrane protein that contains an apical sorting signal (N-glycans) in the lumenal domain and a lysosomal/basolateral targeting signal (YXX{\O} motif) in its cytoplasmic tail. It cycles between the apical surface and lysosomes of renal epithelial cells and is expressed in embryonic and adult kidney. The first objective of this research was to dissect the specific determinant on N-glycosylation for endolyn apical sorting using a lipofectamine-mediated RNAi approach. The results demonstrated that sialylation but not branching of N-glycans is required for endolyn proper delivery. Futher, knockdown of galectin-9 (but not galectins 3, 4 or 8) selectively disrupted endolyn polarity suggesting that interaction between endolyn and galectin-9 is critical for endolyn apical delivery. Next, the function of endolyn in pronephric kidney was investigated during development using zebrafish as a model system. Knockdown of zebrafish endolyn using a translational inhibiting morpholino resulted in pericardial edema, hydrocephaly, and body curvature, suggesting a possible osmoregulation defect. Although the pronephric kidney appeared normal morphologically, clearance of fluorescent dextran was delayed, indicating an imbalance in water regulation in morphant embryos. Rescue experiments using rat endolyn mRNA revealed that both apical sorting and endocytic/lysosomal targeting are required for endolyn function during development of the zebrafish pronephric kidney. This work broadens our understanding of apical sorting mechanisms in polarized cells as well as its significance on kidney function and development.} } @article{pittir29963, volume = {14}, number = {S1}, month = {December}, author = {Diego Moguillansky and Timothy C Wong and Christopher G Meier and Stephen M Testa and David Testa and William J Ceyrolles and Kayla Piehler and Peter Kellman and Erik B Schelbert}, title = {Myocardial fibrosis quantified by the extracellular extravascular volume fraction is associated with the left ventricular sphericity index and the left atrial volume index}, publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC}, journal = {Journal of Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29963/} } @unpublished{pittir12767, month = {September}, title = {Using thermal infrared (TIR) data to characterize dust storms and their sources in the Middle East}, author = {Redha Mohammad}, year = {2012}, keywords = {remote sensing, dust, Kuwait, thermal infrared}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12767/}, abstract = {Mineral dust and aerosols can directly and indirectly influence shortwave and longwave radiative forcing. In addition, it can cause health hazards, loss of agricultural soil, and safety hazards to aviation and motorists due to reduced visibility. Previous work utilized satellite and ground-based Thermal Infrared (TIR) data to measure aerosol content in the atmosphere. This research used TIR techniques, by creating a fine-grained (2.7-45 {\ensuremath{\mu}}m) mineral spectral library, direct laboratory emission spectroscopic analysis, and spectral and image deconvolution models, to characterize both the mineral content and particle size of dust storms affecting Kuwait. These results were validated using a combination of X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analyses that were performed on dust samples for three dust storms (May, July 2010, March 2011) from Kuwait. A combination of forward and backward Hybrid Single-Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory (HYSPLIT) models were used to track air parcels arriving in Kuwait at the time of dust storm sample collection, thus testing the link to dust emitting areas or hotspots in eastern Syria and western Iraq. World soil maps and TIR analysis of surface deposits of these potential hotspots support this interpretation, and identified areas of high calcite concentration. This interpretation was in agreement with prior studies identifying calcite as the major mineral in dust storms affecting Kuwait. Spectral and image deconvolution models provided good tools in estimating mineral end members present in both dust samples and satellite plumes, but failed to identify the accurate particle size fractions present.} } @article{pittir29809, volume = {7}, number = {1}, month = {October}, title = {Sources of non-compliance with clinical practice guidelines in trauma triage: a decision science study}, author = {D Mohan and MR Rosengart and C Farris and B Fischhoff and DC Angus and AE Barnato}, year = {2012}, journal = {Implementation Science}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29809/}, abstract = {Background: United States trauma system guidelines specify when to triage patients to specialty centers. Nonetheless, many eligible patients are not transferred as per guidelines. One possible reason is emergency physician decision-making. The objective of the study was to characterize sensory and decisional determinants of emergency physician trauma triage decision-making.Methods: We conducted a decision science study using a signal detection theory-informed approach to analyze physician responses to a web-based survey of 30 clinical vignettes of trauma cases. We recruited a national convenience sample of emergency medicine physicians who worked at hospitals without level I/II trauma center certification. Using trauma triage guidelines as our reference standard, we estimated physicians' perceptual sensitivity (ability to discriminate between patients who did and did not meet guidelines for transfer) and decisional threshold (tolerance for false positive or false negative decisions).Results: We recruited 280 physicians: 210 logged in to the website (response rate 74\%) and 168 (80\%) completed the survey. The regression coefficient on American College of Surgeons - Committee on Trauma (ACS-COT) guidelines for transfer (perceptual sensitivity) was 0.77 (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.01, 95\% CI 0.68 - 0.87) indicating that the probability of transfer weakly increased as the ACS-COT guidelines would recommend transfer. The intercept (decision threshold) was 1.45 (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.01, 95\% CI 1.27 - 1.63), indicating that participants had a conservative threshold for transfer, erring on the side of not transferring patients. There was significant between-physician variability in perceptual sensitivity and decisional thresholds. No physician demographic characteristics correlated with perceptual sensitivity, but men and physicians working at non-trauma centers without a trauma-center affiliation had higher decisional thresholds.Conclusions: On a case vignette-based questionnaire, both sensory and decisional elements in emergency physicians' cognitive processes contributed to the under-triage of trauma patients. {\copyright} 2012 Mohan et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir13522, month = {September}, title = {Structural Insights into the Shroom-Rock Interaction and the Regulation of the Actomyosin Cytoskeleton}, author = {Swarna Mohan}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Shroom, Rho-kinase, Actin, Myosin, Apical Constriction, Crystallography}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13522/}, abstract = {During development, tissues undergo precise and controlled changes in shape and size. Various signaling pathways regulate these changes, temporally and spatially, by altering cytoskeleton dynamics to alter cell shape. One such pathway involves the Shroom and Rock proteins that reorganize the actomyosin cytoskeleton in epithelial cells to alter tissue morphology. The Shroom family of proteins are multi-domain, actin-binding proteins required for many developmental processes such as neural tube formation, and retinal morphogenesis. Shroom proteins interact with Rho-kinase (Rock), another conserved cytoskeleton regulator, to activate non-muscle Myosin II and assemble a contractile actomyosin network. All Shroom proteins contain a highly conserved C-terminal domain called Shroom Domain 2 (SD2) that interacts with the Rock Shroom binding domain (SBD) and is required for Shroom-mediated apical constriction. In the Shroom-Rock system it is unclear how this interaction activates the kinase activity of Rock. The goal of this dissertation is to understand the mechanistic details of the Shroom-Rock interaction. Using structural studies I have started to dissect the SD2-SBD interaction. I first determined the crystal structure of the Drosophila Shroom SD2 domain at 2.7 {\rA} resolution to be a novel fold composed of a three-segmented, anti-parallel, coiled-coil dimer. Using mutational analysis and a combination of in vivo and in vitro assays we identified surfaces within the central coiled-coil segment of the SD2 domain that mediate Rock binding. The anti-parallel nature of the SD2 domain introduces internal symmetry into the SD2 domain such that there are two identical binding sites for Rock on opposite sides of the molecules suggesting interesting implications for the Shroom-Rock interaction. We also determined the crystal structure of the Rock SBD to 2.5 {\rA} resolution and saw that it is a parallel coiled-coil dimer. Using mutational analysis combined with biochemical assays I have identified two conserved patches on opposite ends of Rock SBD that are required for Shroom interaction. These patches, unlike the patches on the SD2 domain, are not identical. Biochemical characterization of the SD2-SBD complex suggests that molar ratio of this complex is 1:1. Based on these results we can start to suggest models for how Shroom and Rock interact.} } @inproceedings{pittir16031, volume = {72}, title = {Establishing Baseline Values for Brainstem Auditory Evoked Potentials (BAEP) during Microvascular-Decompression for Hemifacial Spasm}, author = {Santhosh Kumar Mohanraj and Parthasarathy D Thirumala and Miguel Habeych and Donald Crammond and Jeffrey Balzer}, year = {2012}, pages = {S105 -- S105}, journal = {ANNALS OF NEUROLOGY}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16031/} } @article{pittir29869, volume = {5}, month = {June}, title = {A minimal ligand binding pocket within a network of correlated mutations identified by multiple sequence and structural analysis of G protein coupled receptors.}, author = {Subhodeep Moitra and Kalyan C Tirupula and Judith Klein-Seetharaman and Christopher James Langmead}, year = {2012}, pages = {13 -- ?}, journal = {BMC Biophys}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29869/}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) are seven helical transmembrane proteins that function as signal transducers. They bind ligands in their extracellular and transmembrane regions and activate cognate G proteins at their intracellular surface at the other side of the membrane. The relay of allosteric communication between the ligand binding site and the distant G protein binding site is poorly understood. In this study, GREMLIN 1, a recently developed method that identifies networks of co-evolving residues from multiple sequence alignments, was used to identify those that may be involved in communicating the activation signal across the membrane. The GREMLIN-predicted long-range interactions between amino acids were analyzed with respect to the seven GPCR structures that have been crystallized at the time this study was undertaken. RESULTS: GREMLIN significantly enriches the edges containing residues that are part of the ligand binding pocket, when compared to a control distribution of edges drawn from a random graph. An analysis of these edges reveals a minimal GPCR binding pocket containing four residues (T1183.33, M2075.42, Y2686.51 and A2927.39). Additionally, of the ten residues predicted to have the most long-range interactions (A1173.32, A2726.55, E1133.28, H2115.46, S186EC2, A2927.39, E1223.37, G902.57, G1143.29 and M2075.42), nine are part of the ligand binding pocket. CONCLUSIONS: We demonstrate the use of GREMLIN to reveal a network of statistically correlated and functionally important residues in class A GPCRs. GREMLIN identified that ligand binding pocket residues are extensively correlated with distal residues. An analysis of the GREMLIN edges across multiple structures suggests that there may be a minimal binding pocket common to the seven known GPCRs. Further, the activation of rhodopsin involves these long-range interactions between extracellular and intracellular domain residues mediated by the retinal domain.} } @article{pittir23217, volume = {21}, number = {2}, month = {April}, author = {N Moldovan and Z Dai and H Zeng and JA Carlisle and TDB Jacobs and V Vahdat and DS Grierson and J Liu and KT Turner and RW Carpick}, title = {Advances in manufacturing of molded tips for scanning probe microscopy}, journal = {Journal of Microelectromechanical Systems}, pages = {431 -- 442}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/23217/}, abstract = {A common method for producing sharp tips used in scanning probe microscopy (SPM) and other applications involving nanoscale tips is to deposit thin-film materials, such as metals, silicon nitride, or diamond-based films, into four-faceted pyramidal molds that are formed by anisotropic etching into a (100) silicon substrate. This well-established method is capable of producing tips with radii as small as a few nanometers. However, the shape of the tip apex is difficult to control with this method, and wedge-shaped tips that are elongated in one dimension are often obtained. This limitation arises due to the practical difficulty of having four planes intersecting at a single point. Here, a new method for producing three-sided molds for SPM tips is demonstrated through the use of etching in (311) silicon wafers. It is shown that silicon nitride and ultrananocrystalline diamond tips fabricated with this new method are wedge free and sharp ({\ensuremath{<}} 10 nm radius), thereby restoring tip molding as a well-controlled manufacturing process for producing ultrasharp SPM tips. {\copyright} 2012 IEEE.} } @unpublished{pittir11673, month = {June}, title = {A Comparative Study of the Jazz Trumpet Styles of Clifford Brown, Donald Byrd, and Freddie Hubbard: An Examination of Improvisational Style from 1953-1964.}, author = {James Harrison Moore}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Jazz Trumpet Clifford Brown Donald Byrd Freddie Hubbard}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11673/}, abstract = {This study is a comparative examination of the musical lives and improvisational styles of jazz trumpeter Clifford Brown, and two prominent jazz trumpeters whom historians assert were influenced by Brown{--}Donald Byrd and Freddie Hubbard. Though Brown died in 1956 at the age of 25, the reverence among the jazz community for his improvisational style was so great that generations of modern jazz trumpeters were affected by his playing. It is widely said that Brown remains one of the most influential modern jazz trumpeters of all time. In the case of Donald Byrd, exposure to Brown?s style was significant, but the extent to which Brown?s playing was foundational or transformative has not been examined. With regards to Hubbard, assertions of his affinity for Brown?s playing during his formative years are well founded, but how much of Brown?s influence was retained by Hubbard as he developed his own personal style has been unexamined. This study examines the early life, musical training, significant professional experiences, and musical influences of Clifford Brown, Donald Byrd, and Freddie Hubbard to assist in forming a more complete picture of the evolution of their respective improvisational styles. In order to call into question the extent of Brown?s influence upon Byrd and Hubbard I scrutinize the playing of these three men in a comparative manner, focusing on traditionally analyzed elements such as melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic tendencies as well as performance elements specific to the trumpet. When one jazz musician is influenced by the improvisational style of another many of the aforementioned elements may be transferred and adopted in the formation of style. Therefore, by identifying the elements that make up Clifford Brown?s modern jazz trumpet style and looking for commonalities and differences among the three trumpeters, a more complete and accurate understanding of the interrelationships between Brown, Byrd, and Hubbard is achieved.} } @unpublished{pittir12046, month = {May}, title = {Differences between early-developing and late-developing phonemes in phonological processing}, author = {Michelle Moore}, year = {2012}, keywords = {specific language impairment, phonological processing, nonword repetition, phonological representations, phoneme development}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12046/}, abstract = {Theoretical accounts of communication disorders often hinge on tasks with various confounds. The aim of this study was to challenge the assumption that children with specific language impairment (SLI) have deficits in phonological memory storage capacity solely because they perform poorly on nonword repetition tasks. This assumption was tested using a novel contrast of early- and late-developing phonemes that was predicted to elicit differences in nonword repetition performance even after controlling for confounding factors. Using a differential diagnosis model of testing, a variety of tasks were administered to determine if early vs. late phoneme differences (ELP) would persist after auditory perceptual, articulatory, phonological memory storage capacity, and lexical demands were minimized. In Study 1, 30 undergraduates completed nonword repetition, nonword reading, and auditory lexical decision tasks in which half of the stimuli contained only early-developing phonemes and half contained only later-developing phonemes. In Study 2, the ELP contrast was examined in another group of 20 undergraduates who completed auditory and visual lexical decision with and without concurrent articulation. Both nonword accuracy and word-nonword discriminability were consistently lower for items with later-developing phonemes than for those with early-developing phonemes, but there were no differences in response times. Results support the growing literature suggesting that nonword repetition relies on multiple processes and cannot be used as a measure of phonological memory storage capacity alone. Additionally, nonword repetition performance draws on skills apart from auditory perceptual demands, articulatory demands, and lexical knowledge. This in turn challenges the assumption that children with SLI have deficits in phonological memory storage capacity simply because they perform poorly on nonword repetition. The results may suggest that the ELP contrast reflects differences in the quality of the phonological representations that derive from the timing of phoneme acquisition, though other possible explanations for the differences are discussed (e.g., other articulatory influences). The ELP manipulation within this battery of tasks affords many possible outcomes that might adjudicate between the possible accounts of deficits that have been associated with SLI, such as perceptual and motor speech deficits that may each contribute independently or additively to poor performance in phonological processing.} } @article{pittir17941, volume = {134}, number = {18}, month = {May}, author = {JD Moretti and X Wang and DP Curran}, title = {Minimal fluorous tagging strategy that enables the synthesis of the complete stereoisomer library of SCH725674 macrolactones}, journal = {Journal of the American Chemical Society}, pages = {7963 -- 7970}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17941/}, abstract = {Four mixtures of four fluorous-tagged quasiisomers have been synthesized, demixed, and detagged to make all 16 stereoisomers of the macrocyclic lactone natural product Sch725674. A new bare-minimum tagging pattern needs only two tags-one fluorous and one nonfluorous-to encode four isomers. The structure of Sch725674 is assigned as (5R,6S,8R,14R,E)-5,6,8-trihydroxy-14- pentyloxacyclotetradec-3-en-2-one. Various comparisons of spectra of 32 lactones (16 with tags, 16 without) and 16 ester precursors (8 with tags, 8 without) provide insights into when and why related compounds have the same or different spectra. {\copyright} 2012 American Chemical Society.} } @article{pittir14138, volume = {7}, number = {2}, month = {February}, title = {Pattern recognition and functional neuroimaging help to discriminate healthy adolescents at risk for mood disorders from low risk adolescents}, author = {J Mour{\~a}o-Miranda and L Oliveira and CD Ladouceur and A Marquand and M Brammer and B Birmaher and D Axelson and ML Phillips}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14138/}, abstract = {Introduction: There are no known biological measures that accurately predict future development of psychiatric disorders in individual at-risk adolescents. We investigated whether machine learning and fMRI could help to: 1. differentiate healthy adolescents genetically at-risk for bipolar disorder and other Axis I psychiatric disorders from healthy adolescents at low risk of developing these disorders; 2. identify those healthy genetically at-risk adolescents who were most likely to develop future Axis I disorders. Methods: 16 healthy offspring genetically at risk for bipolar disorder and other Axis I disorders by virtue of having a parent with bipolar disorder and 16 healthy, age- and gender-matched low-risk offspring of healthy parents with no history of psychiatric disorders (12-17 year-olds) performed two emotional face gender-labeling tasks (happy/neutral; fearful/neutral) during fMRI. We used Gaussian Process Classifiers (GPC), a machine learning approach that assigns a predictive probability of group membership to an individual person, to differentiate groups and to identify those at-risk adolescents most likely to develop future Axis I disorders. Results: Using GPC, activity to neutral faces presented during the happy experiment accurately and significantly differentiated groups, achieving 75\% accuracy (sensitivity = 75\%, specificity = 75\%). Furthermore, predictive probabilities were significantly higher for those at-risk adolescents who subsequently developed an Axis I disorder than for those at-risk adolescents remaining healthy at follow-up. Conclusions: We show that a combination of two promising techniques, machine learning and neuroimaging, not only discriminates healthy low-risk from healthy adolescents genetically at-risk for Axis I disorders, but may ultimately help to predict which at-risk adolescents subsequently develop these disorders. {\copyright} 2012 Mour{\~a}o-Miranda et al.} } @unpublished{pittir16989, month = {December}, title = {Modeling the Effects of Using an Electronic Demand Forecasting Tool on Vaccine Availability in Agadez, Niger During Population Increases}, school = {University of Pittsburgh}, author = {Leslie E Mueller}, publisher = {University of Pittsburgh}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16989/}, abstract = {It is difficult to correctly forecast the demand for vaccines in countries with highly migrant and therefore fluctuating populations, such as Niger. An electronic demand forecasting tool could have public health relevance as a means of increasing vaccinations by accurately forecasting vaccine demand in these areas. The electronic nature of this tool would allow rapid transmission of information to achieve this goal. HERMES (Highly Extensible Resource for Modeling Supply Chains) was used to develop a model of the Niger vaccine supply chain and simulate the effects of increasing the population in the Agadez Region on vaccine availability with and without the tool. When the tool was applied during a 50\% population increase, vaccine availability decreased and missed vaccination opportunities increased compared to when the region was not aware of the population increase when ordering vaccines. This demonstrates that use of this tool alone may not always be appropriate. However, when storage and transport capacities were increased, only single dose vials were used, and the ordering buffer was removed, use of the tool improved vaccine availability by 26\% and resulted in 29,482 fewer missed vaccination opportunities. An electronic demand forecasting tool may not be appropriate in all situations but, when used under appropriate conditions, can help vaccine supply chains cope with population fluctuations and allow a maximum number of people to be vaccinated, decreasing mortality and morbidity.} } @article{pittir18035, volume = {73}, number = {3}, month = {March}, title = {SPEAKING TO REMAIN SILENT: IMPLIED WAIVERS AND THE RIGHT TO SILENCE AFTER BERGHUIS}, author = {Zachary Mueller}, year = {2012}, journal = {University of Pittsburgh Law Review}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18035/} } @unpublished{pittir16646, type = {Working Paper}, title = {Pittsburgh's Failed Industry Targeting Strategy of the 1960s}, author = {Edward K. Muller and Morton Coleman and David Houston}, year = {2012}, institution = {University of Pittsburgh}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16646/}, abstract = {In the 1960's and early 1970's, public and private leaders made a substantial effort to promote Pittsburgh's existing transportation industry as a center for the emerging urban transportation market. The selection of the rapid transit industry for targeting in the 1960's purportedly addressed two issues. Despite national acclaim for its Renaissance redevelopment since World War II, the metropolitan region still needed an effective mass transportation system. Moreover, industrial development efforts had not substantially diversified the region's manufacturing base that still specialized in primary metals. Operating in the region's Renaissance tradition of a public and private partnership, corporate executives and public officials pursued a three-pronged strategy: build an innovative rapid transportation system for Allegheny County, use it as a showcase for testing and marketing rapid transit hardware of regional corporations, and promote the city as a center of the rapid transportation industry. They settled on Westinghouse's automated, rubber-tired vehicle running on a separate cement guideway, known locally as "Skybus," for the demonstration project and the region's mass transit solution. The mass transit plan and industry targeting strategy foundered by the early 1970's because leadership weakened in both poles of the partnership. The Westinghouse technology divided the corporate community, while populist political sentiment diminished the ability of the Democratic party's political machine to deliver key public decisions. The Pittsburgh case suggests that a successful industry targeting strategy may depend more on effective leadership and local politics than on the quality of the selection process and vigorous pursuit of traditional economic development programs in support of the targeted industry.} } @article{pittir29810, volume = {12}, month = {October}, title = {Nursing home characteristics associated with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) Burden and Transmission}, author = {CR Murphy and V Quan and D Kim and E Peterson and M Whealon and G Tan and K Evans and H Meyers and M Cheung and BY Lee and DB Mukamel and SS Huang}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Infectious Diseases}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29810/}, abstract = {Background: MRSA prevalence in nursing homes often exceeds that in hospitals, but reasons for this are not well understood. We sought to measure MRSA burden in a large number of nursing homes and identify facility characteristics associated with high MRSA burden.Methods: We performed nasal swabs of residents from 26 nursing homes to measure MRSA importation and point prevalence, and estimate transmission. Using nursing home administrative data, we identified facility characteristics associated with MRSA point prevalence and estimated transmission risk in multivariate models.Results: We obtained 1,649 admission and 2,111 point prevalence swabs. Mean MRSA point prevalence was 24\%, significantly higher than mean MRSA admission prevalence, 16\%, (paired t-test, p{\ensuremath{<}}0.001), with a mean estimated MRSA transmission risk of 16\%.In multivariate models, higher MRSA point prevalence was associated with higher admission prevalence (p=0.005) and higher proportions of residents with indwelling devices (p=0.01). Higher estimated MRSA transmission risk was associated with higher proportions of residents with diabetes (p=0.01) and lower levels of social engagement (p=0.03).Conclusions: MRSA importation was a strong predictor of MRSA prevalence, but MRSA burden and transmission were also associated with nursing homes caring for more residents with chronic illnesses or indwelling devices. Frequent social interaction among residents appeared to be protective of MRSA transmission, suggesting that residents healthy enough to engage in group activities do not incur substantial risks of MRSA from social contact. Identifying characteristics of nursing homes at risk for high MRSA burden and transmission may allow facilities to tailor infection control policies and interventions to mitigate MRSA spread. {\copyright} 2012 Murphy et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir29925, volume = {9}, month = {April}, title = {Factoring-in agglomeration of carbon nanotubes and nanofibers for better prediction of their toxicity versus asbestos}, author = {AR Murray and ER Kisin and AV Tkach and N Yanamala and R Mercer and SH Young and B Fadeel and VE Kagan and AA Shvedova}, year = {2012}, journal = {Particle and Fibre Toxicology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29925/}, abstract = {Background: Carbon nanotubes (CNT) and carbon nanofibers (CNF) are allotropes of carbon featuring fibrous morphology. The dimensions and high aspect ratio of CNT and CNF have prompted the comparison with naturally occurring asbestos fibers which are known to be extremely pathogenic. While the toxicity and hazardous outcomes elicited by airborne exposure to single-walled CNT or asbestos have been widely reported, very limited data are currently available describing adverse effects of respirable CNF.Results: Here, we assessed pulmonary inflammation, fibrosis, oxidative stress markers and systemic immune responses to respirable CNF in comparison to single-walled CNT (SWCNT) and asbestos. Pulmonary inflammatory and fibrogenic responses to CNF, SWCNT and asbestos varied depending upon the agglomeration state of the particles/fibers. Foci of granulomatous lesions and collagen deposition were associated with dense particle-like SWCNT agglomerates, while no granuloma formation was found following exposure to fiber-like CNF or asbestos. The average thickness of the alveolar connective tissue - a marker of interstitial fibrosis - was increased 28 days post SWCNT, CNF or asbestos exposure. Exposure to SWCNT, CNF or asbestos resulted in oxidative stress evidenced by accumulations of 4-HNE and carbonylated proteins in the lung tissues. Additionally, local inflammatory and fibrogenic responses were accompanied by modified systemic immunity, as documented by decreased proliferation of splenic T cells ex vivo on day 28 post exposure. The accuracies of assessments of effective surface area for asbestos, SWCNT and CNF (based on geometrical analysis of their agglomeration) versus estimates of mass dose and number of particles were compared as predictors of toxicological outcomes.Conclusions: We provide evidence that effective surface area along with mass dose rather than specific surface area or particle number are significantly correlated with toxicological responses to carbonaceous fibrous nanoparticles. Therefore, they could be useful dose metrics for risk assessment and management. {\copyright} 2012 Murray et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir13907, month = {September}, title = {QSAR METHODS DEVELOPMENT, VIRTUAL AND EXPERIMENTAL SCREENING FOR CANNABINOID LIGAND DISCOVERY}, author = {Kyaw Zeyar Myint}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Computational biology, cheminformatics, QSAR, GPCR, Cannabinoid, CB2, fingerprint, artificial neural networks, fragment, bioactivity prediction, hit ranking.}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13907/}, abstract = {G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the largest receptor family in mammalian genomes and are known to regulate wide variety of signals such as ions, hormones and neurotransmitters. It has been estimated that GPCRs represent more than 30\% of current drug targets and have attracted many pharmaceutical industries as well as academic groups for potential drug discovery. Cannabinoid (CB) receptors, members of GPCR superfamily, are also involved in the activation of multiple intracellular signal transductions and their endogenous ligands or cannabinoids have attracted pharmacological research because of their potential therapeutic effects. In particular, the cannabinoid subtype-2 (CB2) receptor is known to be involved in immune system signal transductions and its ligands have the potential to be developed as drugs to treat many immune system disorders without potential psychotic side-effects. Therefore, this work was focused on discovering novel CB2 ligands by developing novel quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) methods and performing virtual and experimental screenings. Three novel QSAR methods were developed to predict biological activities and binding affinities of ligands. In the first method, a traditional fragment-based approach was improved by introducing a fragment similarity concept that enhanced the prediction accuracy remarkably. In the second method, pharmacophoric and morphological descriptors were incorporated to derive a novel QSAR regression model with good prediction accuracy. In the third method, a novel fingerprint-based artificial neural network QSAR model was developed to overcome the similar scaffold requirement of many fragment-based and other 3D-QSAR methods. These methods provide a foundation for virtual screening and hit ranking of chemical ligands from large chemical space. In addition, several novel CB2 selective ligands within nM binding affinities were discovered. These ligands were proven to be inverse agonists as validated by functional assays and could be useful probes to study CB2 signaling as well as potential drug candidates for autoimmune disesases.} } @unpublished{pittir13490, month = {September}, title = {Development of an Infectivity Assay for Human Herpesvirus-8}, author = {Sagar Nadgir}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Human Herpesvirus-8, HHV-8, KSHV, Kaposi's Sarcoma-Associated Herpesvirus, TCID}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13490/}, abstract = {An accurate method for determining HHV-8 infectivity is lacking. The most common method currently used is the measure of encapsidated (i.e. DNAse-resistant) DNA genomes using quantitative real-time PCR. This method, while highly sensitive, does not distinguish between infectious and non-infectious virus particles. Immunofluorescence imaging of infected cells can provide some idea of infectivity but this method is subjective and accurate measurements are difficult to obtain. We have developed a cell culture assay using the HHV-8 cellular receptor DC-SIGN and a {\ensuremath{\beta}}-galactosidase gene under the control of the replication trans-activator (RTA) responsive promoter, T1.1. Infection of these cells with HHV-8 results in RTA production (from the infecting genome), which in turn drives the T1.1-{\ensuremath{\beta}}-galactosidase reporter gene. The T1H6 cell line containing the {\ensuremath{\beta}}-galactosidase gene under the control of the HHV-8 T1.1 promoter, was transfected in our lab with a plasmid expressing DC-SIGN under the control of the CMV IE promoter producing the cell line T1H6-DC-SIGN. Expression of DC-SIGN in T1H6-DC-SIGN cells was confirmed by IFA. {\ensuremath{\beta}}-galactosidase levels were determined using a chemiluminescent {\ensuremath{\beta}}-galactosidase detection kit (Clontech). Levels of {\ensuremath{\beta}}-galactosidase were compared between HHV-8-infected T1H6 and T1H6-DC-SIGN cells. TCID50 values were determined using the Reed-Muench calculation. DNA copy numbers were determined using quantitative PCR specific for HHV-8 DNA. Levels of {\ensuremath{\beta}}-galactosidase were significantly increased in infected T1H6-DC-SIGN cells compared to T1H6 cells supporting the role of DC-SIGN as a viral receptor. A ratio of TCID50 values to DNA genome copy numbers demonstrated specific infectivity ranging from 10-4 to 10-6. Validation of TCID50 values was obtained by infection of immature dendritic cells using 1 and 2 TCID50s. Using this assay, we compared replication kinetics in de novo HHV-8 infected activated B cells in two donors. In terms of public health, this is a more sensitive and specific assay for data that is needed to study HHV-8 infection. A potential clinical application using this assay involves determination of neutralizing antibody titers.} } @article{pittir29960, volume = {16}, number = {1}, month = {February}, title = {Hepatorenal syndrome: The 8 {\ensuremath{<}}sup{\ensuremath{>}}th {\ensuremath{<}}/sup{\ensuremath{>}}international consensus conference of the Acute Dialysis Quality Initiative (ADQI) Group}, author = {MK Nadim and JA Kellum and A Davenport and F Wong and C Davis and N Pannu and A Tolwani and R Bellomo and YS Genyk}, year = {2012}, journal = {Critical Care}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29960/}, abstract = {Introduction: Renal dysfunction is a common complication in patients with end-stage cirrhosis. Since the original publication of the definition and diagnostic criteria for the hepatorenal syndrome (HRS), there have been major advances in our understanding of its pathogenesis. The prognosis of patients with cirrhosis who develop HRS remains poor, with a median survival without liver transplantation of less than six months. However, a number of pharmacological and other therapeutic strategies have now become available which offer the ability to prevent or treat renal dysfunction more effectively in this setting. Accordingly, we sought to review the available evidence, make recommendations and delineate key questions for future studies.Methods: We undertook a systematic review of the literature using Medline, PubMed and Web of Science, data provided by the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients and the bibliographies of key reviews. We determined a list of key questions and convened a two-day consensus conference to develop summary statements via a series of alternating breakout and plenary sessions. In these sessions, we identified supporting evidence and generated recommendations and/or directions for future research.Results: Of the 30 questions considered, we found inadequate evidence for the majority of questions and our recommendations were mainly based on expert opinion. There was insufficient evidence to grade three questions, but we were able to develop a consensus definition for acute kidney injury in patients with cirrhosis and provide consensus recommendations for future investigations to address key areas of uncertainty.Conclusions: Despite a paucity of sufficiently powered prospectively randomized trials, we were able to establish an evidence-based appraisal of this field and develop a set of consensus recommendations to standardize care and direct further research for patients with cirrhosis and renal dysfunction. {\copyright} 2012 Nadim et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir13485, month = {August}, title = {Effects of Economic Hardship on Complicated Grief}, author = {Ilsung Nam}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Economic Hardship, Depression, Complicated Grief, Bereavement}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13485/}, abstract = {Complicated grief is an intense and persistent type of grief which appears to be distinct from depression. Despite the importance of this recently defined syndrome, we are only beginning to learn what factors make people vulnerable to it. Various stressors have been found to be associated with complicated grief, however, to date, studies have focused on individual stressors, such as negative cognition and attachment style. Contextual stressors, such as economic hardship, are probably important, and have been understudied. Additionally, depression may itself be a risk factor for complicated grief, as recent evidence supports that individuals with depression are more like to have complicated grief symptoms. Using the REACH data which was prospectively collected from caregivers of Alzheimer?s patients, first this study found that complicated grief is distinct from depression by confirming the two-factor structure (i.e., Complicated Grief vs. Depression); and second, it found the indirect effect of economic hardship on complicated grief through depression. Future research will need to replicate these findings with larger and more heterogeneous samples, and with more comprehensive measure of economic hardship.} } @article{pittir16056, volume = {7}, number = {10}, month = {October}, title = {Improved Working Memory but No Effect on Striatal Vesicular Monoamine Transporter Type 2 after Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Supplementation}, author = {R Narendran and WG Frankle and NS Mason and MF Muldoon and B Moghaddam}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16056/}, abstract = {Studies in rodents indicate that diets deficient in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) lower dopamine neurotransmission as measured by striatal vesicular monoamine transporter type 2 (VMAT2) density and amphetamine-induced dopamine release. This suggests that dietary supplementation with fish oil might increase VMAT2 availability, enhance dopamine storage and release, and improve dopamine-dependent cognitive functions such as working memory. To investigate this mechanism in humans, positron emission tomography (PET) was used to measure VMAT2 availability pre- and post-supplementation of n-3 PUFA in healthy individuals. Healthy young adult subjects were scanned with PET using [11C]-(+)-{\ensuremath{\alpha}}-dihydrotetrabenzine (DTBZ) before and after six months of n-3 PUFA supplementation (Lovaza, 2 g/day containing docosahexaenonic acid, DHA 750 mg/d and eicosapentaenoic acid, EPA 930 mg/d). In addition, subjects underwent a working memory task (n-back) and red blood cell membrane (RBC) fatty acid composition analysis pre- and post-supplementation. RBC analysis showed a significant increase in both DHA and EPA post-supplementation. In contrast, no significant change in [11C]DTBZ binding potential (BPND) in striatum and its subdivisions were observed after supplementation with n-3 PUFA. No correlation was evident between n-3 PUFA induced change in RBC DHA or EPA levels and change in [11C]DTBZ BPND in striatal subdivisions. However, pre-supplementation RBC DHA levels was predictive of baseline performance (i.e., adjusted hit rate, AHR on 3-back) on the n-back task (y = 0.19+0.07, r2 = 0.55, p = 0.009). In addition, subjects AHR performance improved on 3-back post-supplementation (pre 0.65{$\pm$}0.27, post 0.80{$\pm$}0.15, p = 0.04). The correlation between n-back performance, and DHA levels are consistent with reports in which higher DHA levels is related to improved cognitive performance. However, the lack of change in [11C]DBTZ BPND indicates that striatal VMAT2 regulation is not the mechanism of action by which n-3 PUFA improves cognitive performance. {\copyright} 2012 Narendran et al.} } @article{pittir14146, volume = {7}, number = {2}, month = {February}, title = {Nef alleles from all major HIV-1 clades activate Src-family kinases and enhance HIV-1 replication in an inhibitor-sensitive manner}, author = {PS Narute and TE Smithgall}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14146/}, abstract = {The HIV-1 accessory factor Nef is essential for high-titer viral replication and AIDS progression. Nef function requires interaction with many host cell proteins, including specific members of the Src kinase family. Here we explored whether Src-family kinase activation is a conserved property of Nef alleles from a wide range of primary HIV-1 isolates and their sensitivity to selective pharmacological inhibitors. Representative Nef proteins from the major HIV-1 subtypes A1, A2, B, C, F1, F2, G, H, J and K strongly activated Hck and Lyn as well as c-Src to a lesser extent, demonstrating for the first time that Src-family kinase activation is a highly conserved property of primary M-group HIV-1 Nef isolates. Recently, we identified 4-amino substituted diphenylfuropyrimidines (DFPs) that selectively inhibit Nef-dependent activation of Src-family kinases as well as HIV replication. To determine whether DFP compounds exhibit broad-spectrum Nef-dependent antiretroviral activity against HIV-1, we first constructed chimeric forms of the HIV-1 strain NL4-3 expressing each of the primary Nef alleles. The infectivity and replication of these Nef chimeras was indistinguishable from that of wild-type virus in two distinct cell lines (U87MG astroglial cells and CEM-T4 lymphoblasts). Importantly, the 4-aminopropanol and 4-aminobutanol derivatives of DFP potently inhibited the replication of all chimeric forms of HIV-1 in both U87MG and CEM-T4 cells in a Nef-dependent manner. The antiretroviral effects of these compounds correlated with inhibition of Nef-dependent activation of endogenous Src-family kinases in the HIV-infected cells. Our results demonstrate that the activation of Hck, Lyn and c-Src by Nef is highly conserved among all major clades of HIV-1 and that selective targeting of this pathway uniformly inhibits HIV-1 replication. {\copyright} 2012 Narute, Smithgall.} } @unpublished{pittir12494, month = {June}, title = {HIV-1 Nef-Src Family Kinase Interaction: A Novel Target for the Inhibition of HIV-1 Pathogenesis}, author = {Purushottam Narute}, year = {2012}, keywords = {HIV-1, Nef, Src family kinase, Hck, Lyn, Src, AIDS, Drug Discovery}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12494/}, abstract = {Human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) is a lentivirus responsible for development of AIDS. In addition to typical retroviral proteins (Gag, Pol and Env), primate lentiviruses like HIV-1 encode two regulatory (Tat and Rev) and four accessory proteins (Vif, Vpu, Vpr and Nef). The HIV-1 accessory factor Nef is essential for high-titer viral replication and AIDS progression. Nef function requires interaction with many host cell proteins, including specific members of the Src kinase family. In this dissertation project, I explored whether Src-family kinase (SFK) activation is a conserved property of nef alleles from a wide range of primary HIV-1 isolates and its sensitivity to selective pharmacological inhibitors. Representative Nef proteins from the major HIV-1 subtypes A1, A2, B, C, F1, F2, G, H, J and K strongly activated Hck and Lyn as well as c-Src to a lesser extent, demonstrating for the first time that SFK activation is a highly conserved property of primary M-group HIV-1 Nef isolates. Moreover, patient-derived Nef proteins also strongly activated Hck. Recently, our group identified 4-amino diphenylfuranopyrimidines (DFPs) and diphenylpyrazolyldiazene (PPD-B9) compounds that selectively inhibit Nef-dependent SFK activation as well as HIV replication. To determine whether these novel compounds exhibit broad-spectrum Nef-dependent antiretroviral activity against HIV-1, I first constructed chimeric forms of the viral strain NL4-3 expressing the same 10 primary nef alleles. The infectivity and replication of these Nef chimeras was indistinguishable from that of wild-type in three distinct cell lines (MT2, U87MG and CEM-T4). Importantly, the 4-aminopropanol and 4-aminobutanol derivatives of DFP as well as PPD-B9 potently inhibited the replication of all chimeric forms of HIV-1 in both U87MG and CEM-T4 cells in a Nef-dependent manner. The effects of these compounds against HIV replication correlated with inhibition of Nef-dependent activation of endogenous SFKs. My results demonstrate that the activation of Hck, Lyn and c-Src by Nef is highly conserved among all major clades of HIV-1 and that selective targeting of this pathway uniformly inhibits HIV-1 replication. My results have strong public health significance for developing therapeutics against current drug resistant variants of HIV-1.} } @article{pittir16700, volume = {4}, title = {Limitations of widely used high-risk human papillomavirus laboratory-developed testing in cervical cancer screening.}, author = {Sonya Naryshkin and R Marshall Austin}, year = {2012}, pages = {167 -- 172}, journal = {Drug Healthc Patient Saf}, keywords = {HPV, Hybrid Capture 2, LDT, SurePath, cervical screening}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16700/}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To increase awareness of the limitations of high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) laboratory-developed testing (LDT) widely used in US cervical cancer screening. METHODS AND RESULTS: A young woman in her 30s was diagnosed and treated for stage 1B1 cervical squamous cell carcinoma in which HPV 16 DNA was detected using polymerase chain reaction testing. Both 1 month before and 42 months before cervical cancer diagnosis, the patient had highly abnormal cytology findings; however, residual SurePath? (Becton, Dickson and Company, Franklin Lakes, NJ) vial fluid yielded negative Hybrid Capture 2 (HC2; Qiagen NV, Hilden, Germany) hrHPV LDT results from each of the two specimens. This prompted questions to be asked concerning the performance characteristics of hrHPV LDT. A review of the available data indicates that (1) purification of DNA from SurePath specimens requires complex sample preparation due to formaldehyde crosslinking of proteins and nucleic acids, (2) HC2-SurePath hrHPV testing had not been Food and Drug Administration-approved after multiple premarket approval submissions, (3) detectible hrHPV DNA in the SurePath vial decreases over time, and (4) US laboratories performing HC2-SurePath hrHPV LDT testing are not using a standardized manufacturer-endorsed procedure. CONCLUSION: Recently updated cervical screening guidelines in the US recommend against the use of hrHPV LDT in cervical screening, including widely used HC2 testing from the SurePath vial. The manufacturer recently issued a technical bulletin specifically warning that use of SurePath samples with the HC2 hrHPV test may provide false negative results and potentially compromise patient safety. Co-collection using a Food and Drug Administration-approved hrHPV test medium is recommended for HPV testing of patients undergoing cervical screening using SurePath samples.} } @article{pittir14155, volume = {7}, number = {3}, month = {March}, title = {Impact of generic alendronate cost on the cost-effectiveness of osteoporosis screening and treatment}, author = {S Nayak and MS Roberts and SL Greenspan}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14155/}, abstract = {Introduction: Since alendronate became available in generic form in the Unites States in 2008, its price has been decreasing. The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of alendronate cost on the cost-effectiveness of osteoporosis screening and treatment in postmenopausal women. Methods: Microsimulation cost-effectiveness model of osteoporosis screening and treatment for U.S. women age 65 and older. We assumed screening initiation at age 65 with central dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA), and alendronate treatment for individuals with osteoporosis; with a comparator of "no screening" and treatment only after fracture occurrence. We evaluated annual alendronate costs of \$20 through \$800; outcome measures included fractures; nursing home admission; medication adverse events; death; costs; quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs); and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) in 2010 U.S. dollars per QALY gained. A lifetime time horizon was used, and direct costs were included. Base-case and sensitivity analyses were performed. Results: Base-case analysis results showed that at annual alendronate costs of \$200 or less, osteoporosis screening followed by treatment was cost-saving, resulting in lower total costs than no screening as well as more QALYs (10.6 additional quality-adjusted life-days). When assuming alendronate costs of \$400 through \$800, screening and treatment resulted in greater lifetime costs than no screening but was highly cost-effective, with ICERs ranging from \$714 per QALY gained through \$13,902 per QALY gained. Probabilistic sensitivity analyses revealed that the cost-effectiveness of osteoporosis screening followed by alendronate treatment was robust to joint input parameter estimate variation at a willingness-to-pay threshold of \$50,000/QALY at all alendronate costs evaluated. Conclusions: Osteoporosis screening followed by alendronate treatment is effective and highly cost-effective for postmenopausal women across a range of alendronate costs, and may be cost-saving at annual alendronate costs of \$200 or less. {\copyright} 2012 Nayak et al.} } @unpublished{pittir13483, month = {September}, title = {My brother, my friend: Positive sibling relationships, peer acceptance, and internalizing problems in low-income boys}, author = {Sara Nchols}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Siblings; family relationships; Child psychopathology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13483/}, abstract = {80\% of American children grow up in a household with one or more siblings (Dunn, 2000). These relationships are known to be intense and highly affectively-charged (Dunn, 1983) and are many individuals? longest-duration relationships, extending across the lifespan farther than most friendships, marital, or parental relationships (Dunn, 1998; Sroufe et al, 2005). A growing body of work suggests that sibling relationships contribute to children?s social, cognitive and emotional development, as well as to eventual psychopathology outcomes (Brody, 1998). The current study examines low-income boys? sibling play interactions at age five as a predictor of their subsequent psychological adjustment in later childhood (N = 133). In particular, positive play is examined as a marker of high-quality sibling relationships. The study makes four primary contributions to the field: 1) Identifying child and family predictors of positive sibling interaction in a high-risk sample of young children observed during regular play; 2) Finding differences in positive sibling interactions between siblings with small and large age differences, older versus younger siblings, and African-American and European-American sibling dyads; 3) Demonstrating a relationship between positive sibling interaction at five years of age and absence of psychiatric diagnoses and fewer symptoms up to seven years later in boys at risk for psychopathology; and 4) Identifying the unique contributions of positive sibling relationships, independent of family functioning and peer relationships, in buffering against the development of psychopathology in this high-risk sample. Results suggest that sibling interactions and in particular, resolution of conflict and negative affect during sibling play, are important directions for continued examination and intervention.} } @article{pittir22118, volume = {8}, number = {12}, month = {December}, title = {Construction of a Global Pain Systems Network Highlights Phospholipid Signaling as a Regulator of Heat Nociception}, author = {GG Neely and S Rao and M Costigan and N Mair and I Racz and G Milinkeviciute and A Meixner and S Nayanala and RS Griffin and I Belfer and F Dai and S Smith and L Diatchenko and S Marengo and BJ Haubner and M Novatchkova and D Gibson and W Maixner and JA Pospisilik and E Hirsch and IQ Whishaw and A Zimmer and V Gupta and J Sasaki and Y Kanaho and T Sasaki and M Kress and CJ Woolf and JM Penninger}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS Genetics}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22118/}, abstract = {The ability to perceive noxious stimuli is critical for an animal's survival in the face of environmental danger, and thus pain perception is likely to be under stringent evolutionary pressure. Using a neuronal-specific RNAi knock-down strategy in adult Drosophila, we recently completed a genome-wide functional annotation of heat nociception that allowed us to identify {\ensuremath{\alpha}}2{\ensuremath{\delta}}3 as a novel pain gene. Here we report construction of an evolutionary-conserved, system-level, global molecular pain network map. Our systems map is markedly enriched for multiple genes associated with human pain and predicts a plethora of novel candidate pain pathways. One central node of this pain network is phospholipid signaling, which has been implicated before in pain processing. To further investigate the role of phospholipid signaling in mammalian heat pain perception, we analysed the phenotype of PIP5K{\ensuremath{\alpha}} and PI3K{\ensuremath{\gamma}} mutant mice. Intriguingly, both of these mice exhibit pronounced hypersensitivity to noxious heat and capsaicin-induced pain, which directly mapped through PI3K{\ensuremath{\gamma}} kinase-dead knock-in mice to PI3K{\ensuremath{\gamma}} lipid kinase activity. Using single primary sensory neuron recording, PI3K{\ensuremath{\gamma}} function was mechanistically linked to a negative regulation of TRPV1 channel transduction. Our data provide a systems map for heat nociception and reinforces the extraordinary conservation of molecular mechanisms of nociception across different species. {\copyright} 2012 Neely et al.} } @unpublished{pittir11916, month = {May}, title = {Spaces of becoming and being: the nature of shared experience in Czech society from 1918 to 1989}, author = {Sean Neely}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Consciousness, Czechoslovakia, Velvet Revolution of 1989 }, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11916/}, abstract = {In approaching an analysis of revolution there are a variety of theories from which to draw on including rational action, cultural functionalism, and material structuralism. While each theory offers its own legitimate perspective, it is through a combination of such theories that one arrives at a more holistic understanding of the ways in which collective identities and solidarities are restructured over time. The origins of a revolution can be found within the dominant forms of shared experience that characterize the historical memory of a particular society as well as the cultural objects and social networks through which they move. The dramatic changes brought about during the course and in the aftermath of the Velvet Revolution of 1989 in Czechoslovakia provide an apt case-study for the exploration of the relationship between forms of shared experiences and the expression of revolution. The Velvet Revolution as a collective expression of social and political dissent by a national community cannot be separated from the nature of print capitalism and cultural production between the years 1918 and 1989, particularly in the forms of samizdat literature and the television serial. These mass forms of shared experience reflected and created certain ways of being in the world within Czechoslovak society that exemplified the dialectic between the normalization project of the totalitarian political system and the parallel polis of dissent moving in the underground of society that would eventually shape the organizational structures of the revolution in its effort to realize new ways of being in the world.} } @unpublished{pittir11906, month = {June}, title = {Polariton Condensates in a Trap and Photon Lasing in Two-Dimensional Semiconductor Microcavities}, author = {Bryan Nelsen}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Polariton, Bose-Einstein Condensation, Lasing, Microcavity, Quantum Well, Exciton, Stress Trap, Electron-Hole Exchange, Valence-Band Mixing}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11906/}, abstract = {Recent experiments in microcavity polaritons have shown many effects that can be associated with the phase transition known as Bose-Einstein condensation; these effects include a dramatic increase in both the population of the zero-momentum state and lowest-lying energy state, the formation of first- and second-order coherence in both space and time, and the spontaneous polarization of the polariton ensemble. However, these same results can also be a consequence of lasing. The primary focus of this dissertation is to examine these effects and determine to what degree the effects of lasing can be distinguished from those of Bose-Einstein condensation. Bose-Einstein condensation in a two-dimensional weakly-interacting gas, such as polaritons, is predicted to not occur without the aid of spatial confinement, i.e., a trap. Polaritons were subjected to various methods of confinement, including stress traps and exciton-reservoir traps, and the signatures of condensation in these traps are shown to be dramatically different than those of lasing in a system without confinement. It is also shown that, when driving the polariton condensate to very high density, the polaritons dissociate and the lasing transition succeeds Bose-Einstein condensation. The geometry of the trapping potential was also exploited to indicate that the symmetry of the condensate momentum-space distribution followed that of the ground state of the trap. At reasonable densities, the lifetime of polaritons is of the same order as the polariton-polariton interaction time, hence the previously shown effects are an incomplete Bose-Einstein condensation since thermodynamic equilibrium is not reached. A second part of this work has been to extend the lifetime of polaritons to achieve a more thermalized ensemble. We do this by increasing the Q factor of the microcavity through improving the reflectivity of the mirrors. These samples exhibit many interesting phenomenon since the polariton lifetime becomes long enough to traverse significant distances. Here, Bose-Einstein condensation occurs at a point spatially separated from the excitation source, ruling out the possibility of nonlinear amplification of the pump laser. Also, a superfluid-like transition is observed, giving rise to possible signatures of vortices.} } @unpublished{pittir13140, month = {September}, title = {Fixed Point Properties for c{$_0$}-like Spaces}, author = {Veysel Nezir}, year = {2012}, keywords = {nonexpansive mapping; affine mapping; fixed point property; non-weakly compact; closed, bounded, convex set; asymptotically isometric c{$_0$}-summing basic sequence; c\_0-summing basic sequence; closed, convex hull, Lorentz-Marcinkiewicz Spaces, Riesz Angle, strongly asymptotically nonexpansive map, semi-strongly asymptotically nonexpansive map}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13140/}, abstract = {In 1981, Maurey proved that every weakly compact, convex subset C of c{$_0$} is such that every nonexpansive (n.e.) mapping T:C{$\rightarrow$}C has a fixed point; i.e., C has the fixed point property (FPP). Dowling, Lennard, and Turett proved the converse of Maurey's result by showing each closed bounded convex non-weakly compact subset C of c{$_0$} fails FPP for n.e. mappings. However, in general the mapping failing to have a fixed point is not affine. In Chapter 2 and Chapter 3, we prove that for certain classes of closed bounded convex non-weakly compact subsets C of c{$_0$}, there exists an affine nonexpansive mapping T:C{$\rightarrow$}C that fails to have a fixed point. Our result depends on our main theorem: if a Banach space contains an asymptotically isometric (a.i.) c{$_0$}-summing basic sequence (x?)i?{$N$}, then the closed convex hull of the sequence fails the FPP for affine nonexpansive mappings. In fact, in Chapter 3, we show that very large classes of c{$_0$}-summing basic sequences turn out to be L-scaled a.i. c{$_0$}-summing basic sequences. In Chapter 4, we work on Lorentz-Marcinkiewicz spaces and explore the FPP for lw,?{$^0$} spaces. Using Borwein and Sims' technique we prove for certain classes of weight sequence w that X := lw,?{$^0$} has the weak fixed point property (w-FPP) by using the Riesz angle concept. Furthermore, we find a formula for the Riesz angle of X for any weight sequence. Next, we show that X has the w-FPP for any w, but fails the FPP for n.e. mappings. In Chapter 5, we show that any closed non-reflexive vector subspace Y of lw,?{$^0$} contains an isomorphic copy of c{$_0$} and so Y fails the FPP for strongly asymptotically nonexpansive maps. Also, we show that l? cannot be renormed to have the FPP for semi-strongly asymptotically nonexpansive maps, and that c{$_0$} cannot be renormed to have the FPP for strongly asymptotically nonexpansive maps. Finally, we show that reflexivity for Banach lattices is equivalent to the FPP for affine semi-strongly asymptotically nonexpansive mappings.} } @article{pittir15889, volume = {7}, number = {8}, month = {August}, title = {Feasibility of intensity-modulated and image-guided radiotherapy for functional organ preservation in locally advanced laryngeal cancer}, author = {NP Nguyen and A Chi and M Betz and F Almeida and P Vos and R Davis and B Slane and M Ceizyk and D Abraham and L Smith-Raymond and M Stevie and S Jang and S Gelumbauskas and V Vinh-Hung}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15889/}, abstract = {Purpose: The study aims to assess the feasibility of intensity-modulated and image-guided radiotherapy (IMRT, and IGRT, respectively) for functional preservation in locally advanced laryngeal cancer. A retrospective review of 27 patients undergoing concurrent chemoradiation for locally advanced laryngeal cancers (8 IMRT, 19 IGRT) was undertaken. In addition to regular clinical examinations, all patients had PET imaging at 4 months and 10 months after radiotherapy, then yearly. Loco-regional control, speech quality and feeding-tube dependency were assessed during follow-up visits. Results: At a median follow-up of 20 months (range 6-57 months), four out of 27 patients (14.8\%) developed local recurrence and underwent salvage total laryngectomy. One patient developed distant metastases following salvage surgery. Among the 23 patients who conserved their larynx with no sign of recurrence at last follow-up, 22 (95\%) reported normal or near normal voice quality, allowing them to communicate adequately. Four patients (14.8\%) had long-term tube feeding-dependency because of severe dysphagia (2 patients) and chronic aspiration (2 patients, with ensuing death from aspiration pneumonia in one patient). Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: Functional laryngeal preservation is feasible with IMRT and IGRT for locally advanced laryngeal cancer. However, dysphagia and aspiration remain serious complications, due most likely to high radiation dose delivery to the pharyngeal musculatures. {\copyright} 2012 Nguyen et al.} } @unpublished{pittir10632, month = {February}, title = {Nondestructive Evaluation and Structural Health Monitoring Based on Highly Nonlinear Solitary Waves}, author = {Xianglei Ni}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Highly nonlinear solitary waves, nondestructive evaluation, structural health monitoring}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10632/}, abstract = {Recent decades have witnessed the rapid growth and acceptance of nondestructive evaluation (NDE) techniques in assessment of infrastructures' conditions. Assessing the conditions of infrastructures is important to determine their safety and reliability which have a great impact on today's society. The existing NDE techniques include acoustics, ultrasound, radiology, thermography, electromagnetic method, optical method, and so on. Properly employed NDE techniques can reduce the maintenance and repair cost and improve the reliability of the infrastructures. In the last two decades, the study of the highly nonlinear solitary waves (HNSWs) has received much attention. Most of these studies focused on the propagation of HNSWs in granular systems, but little work on applications of HNSW-based NDE method has been done. HNSWs are mechanical waves that can form and travel in highly nonlinear systems, one-dimensional chain of identical spheres is one of the most common systems that can support the generation and propagation of HNSWs. In the study presented in this dissertation, a new NDE technique based on the generation and propagation of HNSWs was investigated and applied to different structural materials. First, fundamental research on the generation of HNSWs in a chain of stainless steel beads by laser pulses was conducted. The results showed that the laser-based generation of HNSWs produces results that are equivalent to those obtained by means of a mechanical striker. Then, the feasibility of tuning HNSWs by electromagnetically induced precompression was demonstrated experimentally. By changing the precompression on the chain of particles, the properties of the HNSWs could be tuned in a wide range. Then a HNSW-based transducer was designed and built. The transducer was remotely and automatically controlled by National Instruments PXI running Labview. The ability of the new transducer to generate repeatable HNSWs was assessed. Finally, the HNSW transducer was used to monitor cement setting, concrete curing and epoxy curing, to evaluate the bond condition of an aluminum lap-joint, and to detect the impact damages in a composite plate. The results showed that the HNSW-based technique is promising for structural NDE. A pilot numerical study on acoustic lens which is a device can focus the acoustic waves at a focal point was also conducted.} } @article{pittir29784, volume = {3}, number = {1}, month = {December}, title = {Mechanical contributors to sex differences in idiopathic knee osteoarthritis}, author = {DP Nicolella and MI O'Connor and RM Enoka and BD Boyan and DA Hart and E Resnick and KJ Berkley and KA Sluka and CK Kwoh and LL Tosi and RD Coutts and LM Havill and WM Kohrt}, year = {2012}, journal = {Biology of Sex Differences}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29784/}, abstract = {The occurrence of knee osteoarthritis (OA) increases with age and is more common in women compared with men, especially after the age of 50 years. Recent work suggests that contact stress in the knee cartilage is a significant predictor of the risk for developing knee OA. Significant gaps in knowledge remain, however, as to how changes in musculoskeletal traits disturb the normal mechanical environment of the knee and contribute to sex differences in the initiation and progression of idiopathic knee OA. To illustrate this knowledge deficit, we summarize what is known about the influence of limb alignment, muscle function, and obesity on sex differences in knee OA. Observational data suggest that limb alignment can predict the development of radiographic signs of knee OA, potentially due to increased stresses and strains within the joint. However, these data do not indicate how limb alignment could contribute to sex differences in either the development or worsening of knee OA. Similarly, the strength of the knee extensor muscles is compromised in women who develop radiographic and symptomatic signs of knee OA, but the extent to which the decline in muscle function precedes the development of the disease is uncertain. Even less is known about how changes in muscle function might contribute to the worsening of knee OA. Conversely, obesity is a stronger predictor of developing knee OA symptoms in women than in men. The influence of obesity on developing knee OA symptoms is not associated with deviation in limb alignment, but BMI predicts the worsening of the symptoms only in individuals with neutral and valgus (knockkneed) knees. It is more likely, however, that obesity modulates OA through a combination of systemic effects, particularly an increase in inflammatory cytokines, and mechanical factors within the joint. The absence of strong associations of these surrogate measures of the mechanical environment in the knee joint with sex differences in the development and progression of knee OA suggests that a more multifactorial and integrative approach in the study of this disease is needed. We identify gaps in knowledge related to mechanical influences on the sex differences in knee OA. {\copyright} 2012 Nicolella et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir12811, month = {September}, title = {VS-FMDF and EPVS-FMDF for Large Eddy Simulation of Turbulent Flows}, author = {Mehdi B. Nik}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Large eddy simulation, filtered density function, turbulent reacting flows.}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12811/}, abstract = {The first part of this dissertation is concerned with implementation of the joint ``velocity-scalar filtered mass density function'' (VS-FMDF) methodology for large eddy simulation (LES) of Sandia Flame D. This is a turbulent piloted nonpremixed methane jet flame. In VS-FMDF, the effects of the subgrid scale chemical reaction and convection appear in closed forms. The modeled transport equation for the VS-FMDF is solved by a hybrid finite-difference/Monte Carlo scheme. For this flame (which exhibits little local extinction), a flamelet model is employed to relate the instantaneous composition to the mixture fraction. The LES predictions are compared with experimental data. It is shown that the methodology captures important features of the flame as observed experimentally. In the second part of this dissertation, the joint ``energy-pressure-velocity-scalar filtered mass density function'' (EPVS-FMDF) is developed as a new subgrid scale (SGS) model for LES of high-speed turbulent flows. In this model, the effects of compressibility are taken into account by including two additional thermodynamic variables: the pressure and the internal energy. The EPVS-FMDF is obtained by solving its modeled transport equation, in which the effect of convection appears in a closed form. The modeled EPVS-FMDF is employed for LES of a temporally developing mixing layer.} } @unpublished{pittir10542, month = {February}, title = {DIS-ENTANGLING CONVOLUTED ELECTRONIC SPECTRA WITH HIGH AMPLITUDE INTERNAL MOTIONS}, author = {Aleksey E. Nikolayev}, year = {2012}, keywords = {TICT , LIF, "high resolution", spectroscopy , laser, induced fluorescence, FBA, DMABN, HPEA, twisted, charged, transfer, dimethylaminobenzonitrile, "fluorobenzyl alcohol", "hydroxyphenethyl alcohol"}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10542/}, abstract = {High resolution spectroscopy studies of internal motion in the ground and excited electronic states of three prototypical molecules; 4-hydroxyphenethyl alcohol, 4-fluorobenzyl alcohol, and 4,4'-dimethylaminobenzonitrile (DMABN) are reported. Among other findings, distortion of the isolated DMABN along the TICT coordinate in its electronically excited state is described. } } @incollection{pittir18810, month = {December}, title = {Forensic analysis of packet losses in wireless networks}, author = {J Ning and S Singh and K Pelechrinis and B Liu and SV Krishnamurthy and R Govindan}, year = {2012}, journal = {Proceedings - International Conference on Network Protocols, ICNP}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18810/}, abstract = {Due to the lossy nature of wireless links, it is difficult to determine if packet losses are due to wireless-induced effects or from malicious discarding. Many prior efforts on detecting malicious packet drops rely on evidence collected via passive monitoring by neighbor nodes; however, they do not analyze the cause of packet losses. In this paper, we ask: (a) Given certain macroscopic parameters of the network (like traffic intensity and node density) what is the likelihood that evidence exists with respect to a transmission? and, (b) How can these parameters be used to perform a forensic analysis of the reason for the losses? Towards answering the above questions, we first build an analytical framework that computes the likelihood that evidence (we call this transmission evidence or TE for short) exists with respect to transmissions, in terms of a set of network parameters. We validate our analytical framework via both simulations as well as real-world experiments on two different wireless testbeds. The analytical framework is then used as a basis for a protocol within a forensic analyzer to assess the cause of packet losses and determine the likelihood of forwarding misbehaviors. Through simulations, we find that our assessments are close to the ground truth in all examined cases, with an average deviation of 2.3\% from the ground truth and a worst case deviation of 15.0\%. {\copyright} 2012 IEEE.} } @article{pittir20846, volume = {30}, number = {4}, month = {April}, author = {M Nishimori and T Matsumoto and S Ota and S Kopf and Y Mifune and C Harner and M Ochi and FH Fu and J Huard}, title = {Role of angiogenesis after muscle derived stem cell transplantation in injured medial collateral ligament}, journal = {Journal of Orthopaedic Research}, pages = {627 -- 633}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20846/}, abstract = {We performed this study to investigate the therapeutic role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in medial collateral ligament (MCL) healing. Murine muscle derived stem cells (MDSCs) obtained via the preplate technique were retrovirally transduced to express: (1) VEGF and nLacZ (MDSC-VEGF), (2) soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFLT1, a VEGF-specific antagonist) and nLacZ (MDSC-sFLT1), and (3) nLacZ (MDSC-nLacZ). After transecting the MCL of immunodeficient rats, 5 {$\times$} 10 5 cells of each of the transduction groups list above were transplanted into the MCL injury site. A control group was injected with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) only. Immunohistochemical staining demonstrated that there were more Isolectin B4 and {\ensuremath{\beta}}-galactosidase double positive cells in the rats transplanted with MDSC-VEGF transduced cells than the other groups at week 1. Capillary density was significantly higher in the MDSC-VEGF group than the other groups at week 2; however, there were no significant differences in the biomechanical assessment between the MDSC-VEGF and MDSC-nLacZ groups. On the other hand, the MDSC-sFLT1 group revealed a lower capillary density than the other two groups and the functional ligament healing of the MDSC-sFLT1 group was significantly decreased compared to the other groups when assessed biomechanically. The findings of the present study suggest that angiogenesis plays a critical role in the healing process of injured MCL. Copyright {\copyright} 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society.} } @unpublished{pittir13139, month = {September}, title = {Surface Wrinkling Based Method of Measuring Thin Film?s Mechanical Properties}, author = {Jiani Niu}, year = {2012}, keywords = {wrinkling based measurement thin film properties}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13139/}, abstract = {The main goal of this project is to develop a wrinkle-based method to measure mechanical properties of thin interfacial polymeric films. Instead of working on a mechanically equilibrium system, this study is focusing on the case where mechanical equilibrium is hard to reach due to the very high viscosity of the bulk phases. This thesis describes an air/viscous polymer system with a few-micron scale thick polymer film placed at the interface. We have developed a method to generate dynamic wrinkle patterns on the film via compressing the high viscous substrate. Two experiment parameters are controlled: the substrate thickness H and the compressing strain rate{\ensuremath{\epsilon}} ?. This thesis developed an accurate method to measure H while avoiding the interference from the edge effect of the fluid. The compressing strain rate is calculated upon a Matlab program. We report the value of wrinkle number under different compressing strain rate and different substrate thickness. Critical strains under different compression strain rate and substrate thickness has been obtained via analyzing the strain for the onset wrinkle. We normalize the wrinkle number as well as the compressing strain rate in order to compare them with previous works. With dimensional analysis, a power law relation has been demonstrated between normalized wrinkle number and normalized strain rate. } } @article{pittir15605, volume = {7}, number = {8}, month = {August}, author = {Richard Njouom and M{\'e}lanie Caron and Guillaume Besson and Guy-Roger Ndong-Atome and Maria Makuwa and R{\'e}gis Pouillot and Dieudonn{\'e} Nkogh{\'e} and Eric Leroy and Mirdad Kazanji}, editor = {Sheila Mary Bowyer}, title = {Phylogeography, Risk Factors and Genetic History of Hepatitis C Virus in Gabon, Central Africa}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, pages = {e42002 -- e42002}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15605/} } @unpublished{pittir12101, month = {June}, title = {Cancer History, Smoking Related Illnesses and Smoking Cessation Behavior in the Pittsburgh Lung Screening Study (PluSS) Extension}, author = {Chimeremma Nnadi}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Cancer History Smoking-Related Morbidities Smoking Cessation Behavior Lung Cancer Screening }, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12101/}, abstract = {Although much progress has been recorded, tobacco smoking remains a major public health problem in the United States. Smoking is associated with a significant disease burden, substantial economic loss and nearly half a million deaths in the US annually. Individuals with a personal or family diagnosis of smoking related illnesses may be a priority audience for smoking cessation messages, not only because of the resulting health benefits, but also because their diagnoses may serve as cues to quitting smoking. At present however, it is not clear from the literature if the diagnosis of cancer or other smoking-related illnesses serve as significant cues to changes in smoking behavior, especially among individuals with heavy smoking history. The overall aim of this dissertation effort therefore was to assess, using elements of the Heuristic Teachable Moment Model of health behavior (McBride et al, 2003), whether cueing events ? cancer diagnosis, heart or lung procedures, physician-diagnosed illnesses and self-reported symptoms - were associated with changes in smoking behavior in a cancer screening population with significant smoking history. In generalized logistic regression analyses adjusted for age and pack-years of smoking, we found that compared to persons with no reported history of cueing events, quit attempt odds ratio generally increased with increasing number of smoking-related adverse events. The relationship between successful quitting and cueing events was more complex; a history of heart or lung procedure was significantly associated with higher odds of successful quitting, cancer history and physician-diagnosed illnesses were not associated with successful quitting, while a history of self-reported symptoms showed a strong inverse association with successful cessation. The public health implications of these findings are discussed. } } @unpublished{pittir11678, month = {July}, title = {The Role Of Connexin 40 In Susceptibility To Secondary Lymphedema Following Breast Cancer Treatment }, author = {Sarah Noon}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Breast Cancer, Secondary Lymphedema, Genetic Susceptibility, Connexin 40}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11678/}, abstract = {Approximately 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime; however, continuing advances in the field of medicine have increased the expected survival rate. With such an increase in survival rate among breast cancer patients, there has been a recent emphasis on quality of life post-surgery. One of the most feared complications following breast cancer surgery is the development of lymphedema. Approximately 20-30\% of women treated for breast cancer are affected by the onset of secondary lymphedema. Unfortunately, there is no cure and only a portion of women witness improvements in arm symptoms from the available treatments. Currently, there is no accepted model to successfully predict which women are at higher risk for development of lymphedema post treatment. An individual?s genotype as an identified risk factor is not typically considered when studying patient specific risk information. Since treatment for lymphedema is most successful when initiated early, identification of high risk women through detection of genetic risk factors can aid in early diagnosis, improved treatment outcome, and even prevention which is significant to the field of public health. Mutations in the HGF and MET genes had been previously identified in breast cancer secondary lymphedema patients suggesting the possibility of a genetic predisposition to development of lymphedema. More recently, findings of mutations in the connexin 47 (GJA12/GJC2) gene in breast cancer secondary lymphedema patients confirmed a genetic predisposition. There are several connexins expressed in lymphatics and further investigation of their involvement with lymphedema onset is warranted. The purpose of this study is to continue the investigation of the connexin genes and their involvement in secondary lymphedema. This is a case-control study designed to sequence the connexin 40 (GJA5) gene in women treated for breast cancer with and without a diagnosis of secondary lymphedema. In this study, 91 cases and 168 controls were sequenced for the connexin 40 gene. No previously unidentified connexin 40 mutations were found in this cohort of women analyzed. Despite no mutations being identified in connexin 40, further studies of the connexin genes are warranted given their expression and involvement in the lymphatic system. } } @unpublished{pittir13542, month = {August}, title = {NEUROPROTECTIVE MODULATION OF PRO-APOPTOTIC POTASSIUM CURRENTS BY THE HEPATITIS C VIRUS NON-STRUCTURAL PROTEIN 5A}, author = {Callie/A. Norris}, year = {2012}, keywords = {neurodegeneration, potassium channels, neuroprotection, stroke, apoptosis, HCV NS5A}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13542/}, abstract = {We and others have shown that potassium loss is a requisite apoptotic event in mammalian cortical and midbrain neuronal systems. Potassium loss after oxidative injury is mediated through an increase in the soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor-mediated channel insertion of the delayed rectifier voltage-gated potassium channel Kv2.1. This occurs through the dual phosphorylation mechanism of S800 and Y124, mediated by p38 and Src respectively. Inhibiting the potassium current surge is enough to block neuronal cell death in models of neuronal injury. Thus, targeting this cellular apoptotic pathway could provide novel therapeutic strategies in neuroprotection for diseases such as Alzheimer?s, Parkinson?s, and ischemic stroke. Recently the hepatitis C virus (HCV) non-structural 5A (NS5A) protein was found to confer anti-apoptotic properties through the same pathway in hepatocytes, contributing to viral persistence. Here we show that expression of NS5A (genotype 1b) in neurons limits Kv2.1 functional expression, modulates the pro-apoptotic potassium current surge, and is neuroprotective. Importantly, we define a mechanism for this regulation whereby NS5A1b inhibits Src phosphorylation at the Y124 residue of Kv2.1. These anti-apoptotic effects are not as profound in cells expressing NS5A of the 1a genotype, suggesting that these effects are genotype-selective. Preliminary results inhibiting Casein Kinase II, known to phosphorylate NS5A, lead us to speculate that post-translational modifications are required for K+ current modulation. Our results indicate that NS5A1b maintains neuronal viability after injury via Kv2.1 current modulation, and that this could translate to improved therapies in neuroprotection. It is therefore likely that this pathway is critical for NS5A-induced adaptation of host cell activity for maximizing and perpetuating hepatic viral infection.} } @article{pittir12538, volume = {79}, number = {2}, month = {April}, author = {JD Norton}, title = {Approximation and idealization: Why the difference matters}, journal = {Philosophy of Science}, pages = {207 -- 232}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12538/}, abstract = {It is proposed that we use the term "approximation" for inexact description of a target system and "idealization" for another system whose properties also provide an inexact description of the target system. Since systems generated by a limiting process can often have quite unexpected-even inconsistent-properties, familiar limit processes used in statistical physics can fail to provide idealizations but merely provide approximations. {\copyright} 2012 by the Philosophy of Science Association.} } @article{pittir12535, volume = {54}, number = {2}, month = {May}, author = {JD Norton and BW Roberts}, title = {Galileo's refutation of the speed-distance law of fall rehabilitated}, journal = {Centaurus}, pages = {148 -- 164}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12535/}, abstract = {Galileo's refutation of the speed-distance law of fall in his Two New Sciences is routinely dismissed as a moment of confused argumentation. We urge that Galileo's argument correctly identified why the speed-distance law is untenable, failing only in its very last step. Using an ingenious combination of scaling and self-similarity arguments, Galileo found correctly that bodies, falling from rest according to this law, fall all distances in equal times. What he failed to recognize in the last step is that this time is infinite, the result of an exponential dependence of distance on time. Instead, Galileo conflated it with the other motion that satisfies this 'equal time' property, instantaneous motion. {\copyright} 2012 John Wiley \& Sons A/S.} } @article{pittir12537, volume = {54}, number = {2}, month = {May}, author = {JD Norton and BW Roberts}, title = {The scaling of speeds and distances in Galileo's two new sciences: A reply to Palmerino and Laird}, journal = {Centaurus}, pages = {182 -- 191}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12537/} } @article{pittir20849, volume = {46}, number = {1}, month = {July}, author = {M Nozaki and S Ota and S Terada and Y Li and K Uehara and B Gharaibeh and FH Fu and J Huard}, title = {Timing of the administration of suramin treatment after muscle injury}, journal = {Muscle and Nerve}, pages = {70 -- 79}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20849/}, abstract = {Introduction: It has been reported that suramin treatment can improve muscle healing; however, details about optimizing the dosing requirements remain unclear. The purpose of this study was to determine the optimal timing of suramin administration and investigate the effects it had on the expression of myostatin, follistatin, and muscle vascularity after muscle injury. Methods: Contusion injured muscles of mice were treated with suramin at 1, 2, or 3 weeks post-injury and evaluated histologically and physiologically at 1, 2, and 10 days after injection. Results: Suramin treatment initiated at 2 weeks post-injury was observed to promote muscle regeneration and muscle strength, and to decrease fibrosis. Suramin reduced myostatin expression and increased follistatin expression and vascularity in injured skeletal muscle. Conclusions: Suramin's positive effect on muscle regeneration is thought to be due to its enhancement of follistatin expression which increases neoangiogenesis and inhibits myostatin's promotion of fibrosis. {\copyright} 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.} } @unpublished{pittir10481, month = {January}, title = {WARRIOR?S SPIRIT: THE STORIES OF FOUR WOMEN FROM KENYA?S ENDURING TRIBE }, author = {Kakenya, E Ntaiya}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Girls' Education, Kenya, Africa, Maasai, Maasai Women, Women Resilience, Resilience, Female Genital Cutting, early marriage, gender and education}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10481/}, abstract = {The Maasai people of East Africa are well known throughout the world because of their strict traditions and customs. Men in this tribe are known for their fearlessness, courage and power as warriors. To become a warrior, one is required to kill a lion using a spear. These warriors are expected to defend their families and clans from all danger and harm. In this study, I examine a different kind of warrior. These warriors do not kill lions nor do they carry spears; they are women with a warrior?s spirit. The women whose stories I tell are brave, determined and resilient in defending their own rights and ensuring they provide for their families. I narrate their stories of how they overcome the traditional roles that society dictates for women and pursued an education, acquiring employment outside the home. Although these women had to undergo female genital cutting and some were abducted to be married at a young age, they continued to fight and challenge traditions in order to become the people they are today. Their spirit and determination are essential traits that allowed them to overcome the restricting traditions that have hindered many women from pursuing an education. I interpret their stories through the lenses of human capital, human capability and feminist theories. Human capital theory tells us that education is a key determinant of earning an income and is essential for poor families to come out of poverty. A common element in the stories of all the women is a shared motive driving their resilience: the need for employment that would somehow enable them to earn an income. Human capability theory focuses on the ability to live a life that one values. Feminist theory helps to answer the question of women?s subordination to men and all the challenges the women had to overcome to become the people they are today. Their stories reveal several factors that enable women in oppressive circumstances to succeed. These include exposure and environmental factors, family and guardianship support and personal resilience. The study highlights the challenges the women faced, the many ways they overcame them and how they are changing traditional norms in the Maasai community of Kenya. } } @inproceedings{pittir18989, booktitle = {2012 IEEE International Conference on Systems, Man and Cybernetics - SMC}, month = {October}, title = {Human influence of robotic swarms with bandwidth and localization issues}, author = {S Nunnally and P Walker and A Kolling and N Chakraborty and M Lewis and K Sycara and M Goodrich}, publisher = {IEEE}, year = {2012}, journal = {2012 IEEE International Conference on Systems, Man, and Cybernetics (SMC)}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18989/} } @inproceedings{pittir18992, title = {Connectivity Differences between Human Operators of Swarms and Bandwidth Limitations}, author = {Steven Nunnally and Phillip Walker and Michael Lewis and Andreas Kolling and Nilanjan Chakraborty and Katia Sycara}, publisher = {Springer Berlin Heidelberg}, year = {2012}, pages = {713 -- 720}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18992/} } @inproceedings{pittir19023, booktitle = {AAAI Fall Symposium on Human Control of Bio-Inspired Swarms}, month = {November}, title = {Robotic swarm connectivity with human operation and bandwidth limitations}, author = {Steven Nunnally and Phillip M Walker and Michael Lewis and Andreas Kolling and Nilanjan Chakraborty and Katia Sycara}, publisher = {American Association for Artificial Intelligence}, year = {2012}, journal = {AAAI Fall Symposium on Human Control of Bio-Inspired Swarms}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19023/}, abstract = {Human interaction with robot swarms (HSI) is a young field with very few user studies that explore operator behavior. All these studies assume perfect communication between the operator and the swarm. A key challenge in the use of swarm robotic systems in human supervised tasks is to understand human swarm interaction in the presence of limited communication bandwidth, which is a constraint arising in many practical scenarios. In this paper, we present results of human-subject experiments designed to study the effect of bandwidth limitations in human swarm interaction. We consider three levels of bandwidth availability in a swarm foraging task. The lowest bandwidth condition performs poorly, but the medium and high bandwidth condition both perform well. In the medium bandwidth condition, we display useful aggregated swarm information (like swarm centroid and spread) to compress the swarm state information. We also observe interesting operator behavior and adaptation of operators' swarm reaction.} } @unpublished{pittir10731, month = {February}, title = {"But it's Jill!": The development of understanding of identity and value functions of proper names}, author = {Melanie A. Nyhof}, year = {2012}, keywords = {proper names, identity, cognitive development, value}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10731/}, abstract = {Research indicates that although children as young as two years of age are able to use proper names to track individuals across change, tracking identity across hypothetical brain transplants and magical transfers of mind is a later developmental achievement. Additionally, the value implications of naming have not been studied. The present research examined children?s ability to use proper names to track individuals in contrast to mind and labels, and their understanding of the value implications of proper names. Study 1a examined identity tracking and irreplaceable value judgments of a named stuffed animal or toy car in contrast to an identical toy bearing a category label or the experimenter?s toy. Study 1b examined four- and seven-year-old children?s ability to track identity across a magical transfer using proper names and mind. Study 2 examined the ability of children and adults to use proper names versus trait labels to track identity across transfers differing in degree of ontological distance (person, dog, stone). Also, effects of label type and category on irreplaceable value judgments were considered. The results indicated that 4-year-olds successfully track the identity of a named toy and this ability continues to develop with age. Four-year-olds presented with a magical transfer scenario were able to track identity but not subjective aspects of identity, across a transfer, using proper names. Whereas 7-year-olds were able to use proper names, mind, and trait label equally well to track subjective identity, 4-year-olds performed better with mind than with either proper name or trait label. The results suggest that with age, children increasingly associate proper names with subjective identity. In addition, older children were less likely than younger children to respond that an old and worn toy bearing a proper name should be replaced. Children also judged more often that a toy car was replaceable than a stuffed elephant. When presented with magical transfer scenarios, adults judged subjective identity as irreplaceably valuable more often than participants in either of the child groups. However, there was no evidence that proper names, in contrast to mind and trait labels, uniquely influenced judgments of irreplaceable value of subjective identity. } } @unpublished{pittir13535, month = {September}, title = {Ethnic tourism advertisements: the power dynamic and its effect on cultural representation in the ?Kingdom of Daughters?}, author = {Colleen O'Connor}, year = {2012}, note = {This thesis is preparation for my 2012-2013 China Fulbright grant. This research will be further expanded on as I continue higher education. Please send comments and suggestions to colleenkoconnor@gmail.com.}, keywords = {Ethnic tourism; authenticity; cultural commodification; Mosuo; China; advertising }, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13535/}, abstract = {This thesis explores ethnic tourism concepts of authenticity and cultural commodification using tourism advertisements aimed at the Mosuo ethnic group in China. One of the preliminary steps in attracting tourists to visit a tourist destination is advertising. Since advertisements are integral to the ethnic tourism process, consequently, one must question how cultural producers represent Mosuo culture to prospective customers? What images and language patterns do advertisers commonly use to portray the Mosuo? By examining previously published works, studying sociological and anthropological concepts, and incorporating previous fieldwork, this thesis explores how a Chinese ethnic group is advertised and how this affects their society. A substantial amount of anthropological work has focused on the Mosuo?s matrilineal kinship system, pairing system, and tourism culture. However, there has yet to be an in depth socio-anthropological analysis of Chinese media images of the Mosuo and its influence on local ethnic identity. This research is considered a case study and adds to the work of other ethnic tourism scholars conducting content analysis on advertising?s role in constructing perceptions of ethnicity, culture, sexuality, and authenticity. Though the sample is small, the results suggest that certain language is closely associated with Mosuo media portrayal and that imaged locals and Lugu Lake are often utilized as a sexualized commodity. } } @unpublished{pittir11644, month = {June}, title = {The Intersection of Intimate Partner Violence and HIV/AIDS Among Women in India: Moving Beyond the Individual}, author = {Teagen O'Malley}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Intimate partner violence, HIV/AIDS, women, India}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11644/}, abstract = {Objective: Intimate partner violence and HIV/AIDS are two intersecting and significant public health issues impacting the health status of women living in India. Although the intersection of IPV and HIV/AIDS has been highlighted as relevant in understanding HIV transmission patterns among women, current prevention strategies have largely failed to address disease transmission. Multiple methods were conducted with the primary objectives to explore the multi-level factors connecting risk for HIV infection and incidence of IPV among women living in India, create a conceptual model outlining potential mechanisms and pathways involved, and discuss the implications for future research and practice. Methods: A comprehensive literature search of IPV and HIV/AIDS among women living in India resulted in the synthesis of 24 research studies. The final set of literature was analyzed and organized by thematic results related to content and research design. In addition, participant observation fieldwork took place throughout June to August 2011 involving discussions with 27 key informants to learn more about the context of IPV and HIV/AIDS among women living in Andhra Pradesh, India. Discussion notes were summarized and organized based on recurring themes. Results: More than one third of married women have experienced IPV by their husbands in India, where women now account for 40\% of total HIV/AIDS infections. Findings indicate that abused wives face heightened HIV risk based both on an increased likelihood of HIV infection among husbands and elevated HIV transmission within abusive relationships. HIV/AIDS and IPV are linked, and further confounded by many cultural beliefs, norms, and social institutions that legitimize and therefore perpetuate violence against women. Conclusion: IPV and HIV infection among Indian women is a multifaceted issue subject to an interaction among individual, relationship and situational, and sociocultural factors. Several recommendations are made to strengthen further research, practice, and policy addressing the intersection of IPV and HIV infection among women living in India. Qualitative research design, specifically community-based participatory approaches, and sound IPV measurement are required for the design of culturally appropriate interventions specific to the realities and needs of Indian women in order to prevent and treat these mutually reinforcing epidemics.} } @unpublished{pittir11866, month = {July}, title = {Polyrhythm as an Integral Feature of African Pianism: Analysis of Piano Works by Akin Euba, Gyorgy Ligeti \& Joshua Uzoigwe and {\`A}j{\`u}lo K{\`i}n{\`i}{\'u}n (Original Composition)}, author = {STEPHEN OLURANTI}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Polyrhythm, African Pianism, Yoruba talking drum, iyaalu, African rhythm, Akin Euba, Joshua Uzoigwe, Gyorgy Ligeti,Ayo Oluranti}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11866/}, abstract = {Akin Euba (b.1935), Gyorgy Ligeti (1923 ? 2006) and Joshua Uzoigwe (1946 ? 2005) are three art music composers with different approaches to intercultural musical composition. However, representative piano works - Themes from Chaka I by Euba (1996), Fanfares by Ligeti (1985) and Ukom (Talking Drums for Piano Solo Op.11) by Uzoigwe (c.1991) - can be placed on the same stage in their use of processes and resources germane to African traditional music. Specifically, polyrhythm invoking African rhythms is a stylistic resource common to all three of these works. Furthermore, the three composers make the piano simulate African traditional instruments whilst invoking the aesthetics of African traditional music in rhythm and texture. It is my thesis that the occurrence of polyrhythm in the three piano works goes beyond the realm of stylistic usage but functions on a structural level. Thus, the focus of my study is how polyrhythm, functioning at various structural levels and yielding larger rhythmic consequences, is used as a compositional tool to define musical coherence. Using Simha Arom?s discussion on polyrhythm (African Polyphony and Polyrhythm, Cambridge University Press, 1985) as a basis, I develop a method to evaluate the polyrhythmic component of the three piano pieces. The composition component of my dissertation is {\`A}j{\`u}lo K{\`i}n{\`i}{\'u}n for Yor{\`u}b{\'a} talking drum, voice, piano, flute, {\`a}k{\'u}b{\`a} drums and percussion (temple blocks, agogo and s{\`e}k{\`e}r{\`e}). In this work, I explore the speech and rhythm capabilities of the Yor{\`u}b{\'a} talking drum as used in the Yor{\`u}b{\'a} d{\`u}nd{\'u}n instrumental genre. I also explore the musicality of the Yor{\`u}b{\'a} language, based on three tone levels, through the traditional vocal style that fluctuates between the ?speech-chant-song? continuum. I advance the concept of African Pianism by making the piano further behave like the talking drum with regards to pitch, with the approximation of the system of three tone levels of the spoken Yor{\`u}b{\'a} language, which forms the basis of the Yor{\`u}b{\'a} talking drum repertoire.} } @unpublished{pittir13793, month = {June}, title = {MODELS FOR GREENFIELD AND INCREMENTAL CELLULAR NETWORK PLANNING}, school = {University of Pittsburgh}, author = {CAROL OVON}, publisher = {University of Pittsburgh}, year = {2012}, keywords = {cellular, telecommunications, planning, greenfield, incremental, optimization}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13793/}, abstract = {Mobility, as provided in cellular networks, is largely affected by the location of the base stations. To a large extent, the location of base stations is determined by the quantity of base stations available to provide coverage. It is therefore not surprising that the quantity and subsequent location of base stations will not only impact service delivery but also have a large associated cost for implementation. Generally, the higher the quantity of base stations required to provide coverage, the greater the cost of implementation and operation of the radio network. This thesis proposes a modified optimization model to aid the cell planning process. This model, unlike those surveyed, is applicable to both green field and incremental network designs. The variation in model design is fundamental in ensuring cost effective growth and expansion of cellular networks. Numerical studies of the modified model applied to both abstract and real system configurations are carried out using MATLAB. Terrain data from Kampala, Uganda, was used to aid the study. Results show that the antenna height significantly determines the solution of the objective function. In addition, it is shown that slight variations in the cost association between the antenna height and the site construction requirements can be decisively used for predefined targeted network planning. A comparison is also made between an actual network installation and the estimates provided by the model. As expected, results from the study show that the difference between the estimated count and the actual count can be adEquately minimized by slight variations in antenna height requirements.} } @article{pittir14360, volume = {76}, number = {4}, month = {April}, author = {M Oakley and AR Vieira}, title = {The endangered clinical teacher-scholar: A promising update from one dental school}, journal = {Journal of Dental Education}, pages = {454 -- 460}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14360/}, abstract = {Clinical dental faculty members' lack of scholarly activity not only impacts their ability to be promoted and retained in their institutions but limits the contributions they could make to clinical discovery. Contributing factors to this situation include the lack of purposeful mentoring and the widespread faculty shortages, which increase faculty workloads. One way to address this challenge is to develop and implement formal mentoring programs, endorsed by the dental school's administration, that use reward structures in which novice clinical faculty members are teamed with faculty members experienced in scholarly activity. The Clinical Research Scholars Program at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine has been in existence since 2008. Preliminary data from this program suggest that this has been a successful plan for increasing the scholarly activity of the clinical teacher-scholar. Although not without limitations, this program may serve as a model for other schools to consider as they encourage their own clinical faculty members to undertake research initiatives. Similar programs at dental schools across the country can enhance discovery, research, and treatment by expanding the number of researchers who are addressing the public's oral and systemic health needs.} } @unpublished{pittir12122, month = {June}, title = {EXPRESSIVE PROSODY IN FRENCH SOLO SONG: GABRIEL FAUR{\'E}'S M{\'E}LODIES, AND THEIR HISTORICAL ANTECEDENTS}, author = {Mary E.S. Ober}, year = {2012}, keywords = {m{\'e}lodies; Faur{\'e}, Gabriel; French song; prosody; Bo{\"e}sset, Antoine; air de cour}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12122/}, abstract = {The m{\'e}lodies of Gabriel Faur{\'e} (1845-1924) are regularly faulted for ?poor prosody,? for frequent mismatches of musical accent and the French text. This study presents evidence that calls for a significantly different approach to accentuation in this popular body of art songs. Close examination of virtually all of Faur{\'e}'s m{\'e}lodies reveals a unique prosodic practice grounded in the rhythmic nuances of spoken French, in a way not found in the works of his peers. Frequently, performance of a Faur{\'e}an song with correct accentuation calls for a substantially greater awareness of the French text as spoken, along with a studied disregard of the musically notated meter. Tracing the evolution of Faur{\'e}'s prosodic style ultimately leads to settings that are less problematic for its interpreters. In addition, on a number of occasions the composer manipulates the notated rhythms in a way that adds greater expressive meaning; specific examples are given. The argument for reassessment of Faur{\'e}'s text-setting is preceded by the author's discussion of the role played by French prosody at the point of its connection with solo song over the previous three centuries. Beginning with the application of rhetorical principles to an early seventeenth-century air de cour by Antoine Bo{\"e}sset and continuing through representative quotes from Lully, Rameau, Rousseau and Gluck, comparisons are ultimately made with the purposefully rustic practice of wildly popular staged works of the eighteenth-century Forains and a rising tide of op{\'e}ras-comiques built on 'realistic' themes, such as those composed by Andr{\'e} Gr{\'e}try. Analysis connects linguistic, poetic and musical elements as the major actors in these socially complex art forms.} } @article{pittir29825, volume = {1}, number = {1}, month = {September}, title = {Generation of myeloid-derived suppressor cells using prostaglandin E{\ensuremath{<}}inf{\ensuremath{>}}2{\ensuremath{<}}/inf{\ensuremath{>}}}, author = {N Obermajer and P Kalinski}, year = {2012}, journal = {Transplantation Research}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29825/}, abstract = {Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are natural immunosuppressive cells and endogenous inhibitors of the immune system. We describe a simple and clinically compatible method of generating large numbers of MDSCs using the cultures of peripheral blood-isolated monocytes supplemented with prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). We observed that PGE2 induces endogenous cyclooxygenase (COX)2 expression in cultured monocytes, blocking their differentiation into CD1a+ dendritic cells (DCs) and inducing the expression of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1, IL-4R{\ensuremath{\alpha}}, nitric oxide synthase 2 and IL-10 - typical MDSC-associated suppressive factors. The establishment of a positive feedback loop between PGE2 and COX2, the key regulator of PGE2 synthesis, is both necessary and sufficient to promote the development of CD1a+ DCs to CD14+CD33+CD34+ monocytic MDSCs in granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor/IL-4-supplemented monocyte cultures, their stability, production of multiple immunosuppressive mediators and cytotoxic T lymphocyte-suppressive function. In addition to PGE2, selective E-prostanoid receptor (EP)2- and EP4-agonists, but not EP3/1 agonists, also induce the MDSCs development, suggesting that other activators of the EP2/4- and EP2/4-driven signaling pathway (adenylate cyclase/cAMP/PKA/CREB) may be used to promote the development of suppressive cells. Our observations provide a simple method for generating large numbers of MDSCs for the immunotherapy of autoimmune diseases, chronic inflammatory disorders and transplant rejection. {\copyright} 2012 Obermajer and Kalinski; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir10488, month = {January}, title = {The Dangers of Natural Resources Decentralization: Decentralized Forest Management, (Local) Development and the Making of A Big Man in the Dimako Council, Cameroon}, author = {Gildas/A. Ofoulhast-Othamot}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Decentralized Forest Management, Cameroon, Big Man, Natural Resources Management, Decentralization, Africa}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10488/}, abstract = {Throughout the world decentralized experiments in natural resources management are being attempted on the assumption that through the inclusion of those who were formerly excluded - local/rural communities and governments- the management of those resources as well as local/rural living conditions shall be improved. In Cameroon, following the 1994 landmark Forest Law which transferred some powers, resources and responsibilities to local actors, two primary modes of decentralized forest management were conceived community and council forests. Whereas, in the more than fifteen years since the 1994 reform, community forests have been the object of intense scholarly attention, the study of council forests has lagged behind in spite of the fact that earlier studies had highlighted the predicaments of the overall forest management decentralization. This study sought to fill that gap in the literature. The central question addressed in this dissertation was straightforward: why did the forest management decentralization fail to achieve the goals of Sustainable Forest Management (SFM) and local development in Dimako Council? In order to answer that question, the dissertation examined the case of the Dimako Council and the Dimako Council Forest. That case was significant because it represented the first experiment in natural resources management by an elected local government in the entire Congo Basin, the second largest reservoir of tropical forests after the Amazon. The empirical research found that the forest management decentralization in Dimako Council failed to achieve the goals of SFM and local development because the Mayor of Dimako, taking advantage of the new opportunities offered by the forest law, captured the council forest and utilized it for power-building purposes, thereby earning him the status of a Big Man. Overall, the main contribution of the study is to show that the decentralization theory of natural resources management instead of solving the ?bad? governance issues that it reportedly identified in the first place has in effect extended and entrenched the reach of the patrimonial state as well as aggravated the state of affairs in Dimako, leading to questions about its relevance.} } @unpublished{pittir11443, month = {June}, title = {RE-MEMBERING TRAUMA IN THE FLESH: LITERARY AND PERFORMATIVE REPRESENTATIONS OF RACE AND GENDER IN THE AMERICAS}, author = {Sarah S. Ohmer}, year = {2012}, keywords = {latin america contemporary literature cuba brazil transnational studies comparative literature cultural studies Africana Studies}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11443/}, abstract = {This dissertation explores transgenerational traumas of slavery, discrimination, social marginalization pertaining to women and youth of color. The analyses approach novels, testimonio, poetry and performances (1985-2005) with feminist, postcolonial, trauma studies, performance, and psychoanalytic criticism. The manuscript follows three avenues. First, I present a comparative analysis of three novels working through the ?postmemory? of slavery. Then I analyze various literary genres that cope with wounded bodies and fragmented identities. This second avenue splits into three streets, exploring repressed sexuality, and naming and internal colonization). Finally, I explore urban youths? performance. This last avenue stops at various intersections to look at different dances and songs that heal urban youths and help them to affirm their own voices. With a postcolonial approach to trauma studies, Chapter two connects re-membering with storytelling and ghost embodiment. I observe how ?neo-abolitionist? novels heal past traumas in Beloved by Toni Morrison, Poncia? Vicencio by Conceic?a?o Evaristo, and I, Tituba, Black Witch of Salem by Maryse Conde?. Chapter three discusses how texts work through violated maternity, fragmented identity and repressed sexuality. I compare scenes from the novels with the testimonios Reyita: The Life of a Cuban Woman in the Twentieth Century (Mari?a de los Reyes Castillo) and Borderlands/La Frontera (Gloria Anzaldu?a), and with poems fromselected Quilombhoje Collective?s ?Cadernos Negros? volumes. This concludes the first section on re- membering trauma in writing. Chapters 4 and 5 discuss re-membering trauma through performance. Turning to documentaries on dance and music, I analyze performance that promotes self-esteem and agency for/by marginalized youths from Los Angeles and Rio de Janeiro. The last two chapters include Jose? Junior?s Da Favela para o mundo: A historia do grupo cultural AfroReggae, documentaries RIZE (David LaChapelle) and Favela Rising (Matt Mochary and Jeff Zymbalist), and music album Nenhum Motivo Explica a Guerra (AfroReggae). Any artwork presents the potential to heal trauma and its painful portrayal may be difficult to confront. The texts here present struggles against discrimination and selective amnesia bound to questions of race, socio-economic marginalization, and gender. They suggest resolutions through narrative re-membering{--}retrieval and re-integration of traumatic memories and afflictions into memory.} } @article{pittir20839, volume = {20}, number = {1}, month = {January}, author = {M Okada and TR Payne and L Drowley and RJ Jankowski and N Momoi and S Beckman and WCW Chen and BB Keller and K Tobita and J Huard}, title = {Human skeletal muscle cells with a slow adhesion rate after isolation and an enhanced stress resistance improve function of ischemic hearts}, journal = {Molecular Therapy}, pages = {138 -- 145}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20839/}, abstract = {Identification of cells that are endowed with maximum potency could be critical for the clinical success of cell-based therapies. We investigated whether cells with an enhanced efficacy for cardiac cell therapy could be enriched from adult human skeletal muscle on the basis of their adhesion properties to tissue culture flasks following tissue dissociation. Cells that adhered slowly displayed greater myogenic purity and more readily differentiated into myotubes in vitro than rapidly adhering cells (RACs). The slowly adhering cell (SAC) population also survived better than the RAC population in kinetic in vitro assays that simulate conditions of oxidative and inflammatory stress. When evaluated for the treatment of a myocardial infarction (MI), intramyocardial injection of the SACs more effectively improved echocardiographic indexes of left ventricular (LV) remodeling and contractility than the transplantation of the RACs. Immunohistological analysis revealed that hearts injected with SACs displayed a reduction in myocardial fibrosis and an increase in infarct vascularization, donor cell proliferation, and endogenous cardiomyocyte survival and proliferation in comparison with the RAC-treated hearts. In conclusion, these results suggest that adult human skeletal muscle-derived cells are inherently heterogeneous with regard to their efficacy for enhancing cardiac function after cardiac implantation, with SACs outperforming RACs. {\copyright} The American Society of Gene \& Cell Therapy.} } @article{pittir17316, volume = {112}, number = {5}, month = {May}, author = {SA Oladepo and K Xiong and Z Hong and SA Asher and J Handen and IK Lednev}, title = {UV resonance raman investigations of peptide and protein structure and dynamics}, journal = {Chemical Reviews}, pages = {2604 -- 2628}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17316/}, abstract = {A study was conducted to demonstrate ultraviolet resonance Raman (UVRR) investigations of peptide and protein structure and dynamics. The tuning of the excitation wavelengths allowed the probing of different chromophoric segments of a macromolecule. Another advantage of deep UV Raman measurements was that there was no interference from molecular relaxed fluorescence, as those chromophores that had their first transition below 260 nm were highly flexible and possessed small fluorescence quantum yields. UVRR was also used in pump-probe measurements to give kinetic information on fast biological processes. It was a powerful technique for studying static protein structure and for studying protein dynamics, such as in protein folding. The rapid development of UVRR was aided by the latest advancements in lasers, optics, and detectors.} } @article{pittir14084, volume = {7}, number = {2}, month = {March}, author = {M Oleszczuk and RM Fernandes and D Thomson and N Shaikh}, title = {The cochrane library and acute otitis media in children: An overview of reviews}, journal = {Evidence-Based Child Health}, pages = {393 -- 402}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14084/}, abstract = {Background: Acute otitis media (AOM) is one of the most common clinical problems in childhood with peak incidence occurring in the first 2 years of life. Objectives: To critically evaluate the available evidence in The Cochrane Library regarding the treatment of AOM. Methods: The Cochrane Library was searched using the terms 'otitis media' and 'ear infection'. Reviews focusing on the treatment of AOM in children were included. Data on patient relevant outcomes (pain, treatment failure, AOM recurrence and adverse events) were extracted by two authors. Main results: Six reviews were included in this overview. The first review compared antibiotics with placebo. Antibiotics reduced pain on days 2-7 [odds ratio (OR): 0.61; 95\% confidence interval (CI): 0.49-0.75; Number needed to treat (NNT) = 14] but increased overall adverse events (OR: 2.35; 95\% CI: 1.14-4.84; NNT = 7). Antibiotics also reduced the number of children with treatment failure (persistence of signs and symptoms at the end of therapy) (OR: 0.40; 95\% CI: 0.27-0.60; NNT = 8), and this effect was larger in two recent randomized controlled trials which used stringent diagnostic criteria and were restricted to young children (OR: 0.24; 95\% CI: 0.16-0.34; NNT = 4). The second review addressing the length of antibiotic treatment showed that shorter courses of oral antibiotics resulted in a slightly increased likelihood of treatment failure (OR: 1.34; 95\% CI: 1.16, 1.55), although trial quality was limited. In the third review, no significant differences were noted between once- or twice-daily versus three times-daily administration of amoxicillin-based antibiotic treatment; however, the quality of the original data on which the review was based was less than optimal. The fourth review compared delayed antibiotics to immediate therapy or to no antibiotics for AOM, with no differences in pain between groups. In the fifth review, decongestants and/or antihistamines were compared with placebo. Decongestants and antihistamines provided no appreciable benefit and were associated with significant adverse events (OR: 3.74; 95\% CI: 1.53, 9.16). In the sixth review, topical analgesic drops and placebo were compared. Use of analgesic drops was associated with a significant increase in pain reduction (OR: 3.07; 95\% CI: 1.33, 7.05). Authors' conclusions: Current evidence suggests that antibiotic treatment may be justified in young children with stringently diagnosed AOM. {\copyright} 2012 John Wiley \& Sons, Ltd.} } @article{pittir29845, volume = {2}, number = {1}, title = {A basic study on molecular hydrogen (H2) inhalation in acute cerebral ischemia patients for safety check with physiological parameters and measurement of blood H2 level}, author = {Hirohisa Ono and Yoji Nishijima and Naoto Adachi and Masaki Sakamoto and Yohei Kudo and Kumi Kaneko and Atsunori Nakao and Takashi Imaoka}, year = {2012}, pages = {21 -- 21}, journal = {Medical Gas Research}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29845/} } @article{pittir29893, volume = {2}, number = {1}, title = {Hydrogen(H2) treatment for acute erythymatous skin diseases. A report of 4 patients with safety data and a non-controlled feasibility study with H2 concentration measurement on two volunteers}, author = {Hirohisa Ono and Yoji Nishijima and Naoto Adachi and Masaki Sakamoto and Yohei Kudo and Jun Nakazawa and Kumi Kaneko and Atsunori Nakao}, year = {2012}, pages = {14 -- 14}, journal = {Medical Gas Research}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29893/} } @inproceedings{pittir27170, booktitle = {New Ways of Analyzing Variation 41}, month = {October}, title = {Operationalizing Stance as an Independent Variable.}, author = {Spencer Onuffer and Scott F Kiesling}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/27170/} } @unpublished{pittir10531, month = {February}, title = {STUDY OF THE AUSTENITE DECOMPOSITION AND FORMATION OF PROEUTECTOID CEMENTITE IN HYPER-EUTECTOID STEELS }, author = {Raymundo Ord{\'o}{\~n}ez }, year = {2012}, keywords = {Austenite Proeutectoid cementite Interlamellar spacing}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10531/}, abstract = {Eutectoid and hypereutectoid steels are extensively used for different engineering applications, because they offer a useful combination of strength and ductility as well as good corrosion resistance, wear resistance and machinability. In these steels, the major microstructural microconstituent is pearlite. However, depending on the chemical composition of the austenite prior to transformation and the thermal path during the decomposition of austenite, i.e., rate of cooling to the transformation temperature, the formation of proeutectoid cementite along the prior-austenite grain boundaries might take place. The presence of proeutectoid cementite along the austenite grain boundaries has a deleterious effect on the final mechanical properties of these fully pearlitic steels. Thermomechanical processing studies on hypereutectoid steels have shown that the composition and microstructural conditions of austenite prior to transformation to a fully pearlitic microstructure has a strong effect on reducing the formation of proeutectoid cementite along the austenite grain boundaries as well as the refinement of the interlamellar spacing. A study of the effect of different microstructural features and precipitation behavior on the mechanical properties and wear behavior is presented.} } @unpublished{pittir11812, month = {July}, title = {La novela ecuatoriana en el siglo XX: Escenarios, disputas, pr{\'a}cticas intelectuales. Memoria de la cr{\'i}tica literaria }, author = {Alicia Ortega}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Ecuadorian novel, Ecuadorian literary criticism, Ecuadorian intellectuals.}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11812/}, abstract = {The purpose of this dissertation is to reflect upon those novels that stand out as milestones of Ecuadorian literary tradition in the twentieth century. At the same time, I am interested in the reading strategies that Ecuadorian literary criticism has built around the novel. Part of my aim is to identify how some writers have been read within the perspective of legitimizing a critical discourse and a new form of intellectual conscience within the frame of a history of appropriations and disputes upon which a new field of knowledge, a critical tradition and a memoir of literary affiliations have been consolidated. Within this context, it is important to distinguish the cultural and political scenarios and the emotional bonds that have coincided in the emergence of both a new aesthetic and critical literary projects. Within the field of novels of the first half of the century, several questions guide my reading: How does the representation of nature affect the traditional tension of civilization-barbarism and tradition-modernity? What is the meaning of the intersection of space, culture and identity? How should one think about the foundation and defense of one?s own place from the margins of the civilized system? What is the sense of community in the face of an institutional violence that pushes more vulnerable subjects to live outside the law? How does the leitmotif of displacement relate to the fracturing of social, ethnic and gender interactions within the national map? The aim of the second part of the dissertation is the production of novels and literary essays of the second half of the century. I distinguish the representation of the intellectual subject whose practice is defined in the long-sought alliance with the subject of popular origins. This alliance is a problematic encounter that defines itself, in some cases within the framework of a revolutionary political project, and in others, within a context of failure and disappointment. Reflections on realism, questions about nation, dialogue channels and the mutual ?contaminations? between critical discourse and that of fiction all are instances that guide my reading of the Ecuadorian novel throughout the twentieth century. } } @unpublished{pittir11915, month = {June}, title = {The impact of spectrally asynchronous delay on the intelligibility of conversational speech}, author = {Amanda Ortmann}, year = {2012}, keywords = {speech perception, hearing aids}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11915/}, abstract = {Conversationally spoken speech is rampant with rapidly changing and complex acoustic cues that individuals are able to hear, process, and encode to meaning. For many hearing-impaired listeners, a hearing aid is necessary to hear these spectral and temporal acoustic cues of speech. For listeners with mild-moderate high frequency sensorineural hearing loss, open-fit digital signal processing (DSP) hearing aids are the most common amplification option. Open-fit DSP hearing aids introduce a spectrally asynchronous delay to the acoustic signal by allowing audible low frequency information to pass to the eardrum unimpeded while the aid delivers amplified high frequency sounds to the eardrum that has a delayed onset relative to the natural pathway of sound. These spectrally asynchronous delays may disrupt the natural acoustic pattern of speech. The primary goal of this study is to measure the effect of spectrally asynchronous delay on the intelligibility of conversational speech by normal-hearing and hearing-impaired listeners. A group of normal-hearing listeners (n = 25) and listeners with mild-moderate high frequency sensorineural hearing loss (n = 25) participated in this study. The acoustic stimuli included 200 conversationally-spoken recordings of the low predictability sentences from the revised speech perception in noise test (r-SPIN). These 200 sentences were modified to control for audibility for the hearing-impaired group and so that the acoustic energy above 2 kHz was delayed by either 0 ms (control), 4ms, 8ms, or 32 ms relative to the low frequency energy. The data were analyzed in order to find the effect of each of the four delay conditions on the intelligibility of the final key word of each sentence. Normal-hearing listeners were minimally affected by the asynchronous delay. However, the hearing-impaired listeners were deleteriously affected by increasing amounts of spectrally asynchronous delay. Although the hearing-impaired listeners performed well overall in their perception of conversationally spoken speech in quiet, the intelligibility of conversationally spoken sentences significantly decreased when the delay values were equal to or greater than 4 ms. Therefore, hearing aid manufacturers need to restrict the amount of delay introduced by DSP so that it does not distort the acoustic patterns of conversational speech. } } @unpublished{pittir13533, month = {September}, title = {Intramolecular [2 + 2] Cycloaddition Reactions of Allene-ynes: Exploring the Scope, Mechanism, and Application to the Synthesis of Carbocyclic Spirooxindoles }, author = {Joshua M. Osbourn}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Allene; Cycloaddition; Diradical; Biradical; Spirooxindole, Alkylidene cyclobutene}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13533/}, abstract = {The thermal allene-yne [2 + 2] cycloaddition reaction provides quick and efficient access to alkylidene cyclobutene compounds containing a fused bicyclic ring structure. The mechanism of this reaction was examined computationally in collaboration with Dean Tantillo and Matthew Siebert and experimentally in our lab. Computational studies suggest that the allene-yne [2 + 2] cycloaddition reaction proceeds via a stepwise diradical pathway. It is commonplace for researchers to postulate diradical intermediates for thermally disallowed cycloaddition reactions, but rarely are experiments conducted to support their existence. Experimental efforts to trap the postulated diradical intermediate included appending a cyclopropane to various allene-yne substrates. In two examples, products resulting from cyclopropane ring opening were isolated and characterized, thus providing experimental evidence supporting a diradical intermediate. The scope of the thermal allene-yne [2 + 2] cycloaddition reaction was expanded to the preparation of spirocyclobutene oxindoles. Our investigation led to the discovery of a tandem thermal [3,3]-sigmatropic rearrangement/[2 + 2] cycloaddition reaction of propargyl esters to afford carbocyclic spirooxindoles. This methodology lent itself to the formation of both spirobicyclo[4.2.0]oxindoles and spirobicyclo[5.2.0]oxindoles in moderate yields. The scope of the reaction was expanded to the synthesis of potentially biologically active spirocyclobutene oxindole compounds. Transfer of chirality from an allene to the [2 + 2] cycloadduct was possible when using a tert-butyl substituted allene; however in the case of a propargyl acetate substrate, complete racemization was observed during the tandem [3,3]-sigmatropic rearrangement/[2 + 2] cycloaddition reaction. We hypothesize that the bulkiness of the tert-butyl group and oxindole restricts rotation at the intermediate diradical and thus prevents racemization. The synthetic utility of the resulting [2 + 2] cycloadducts was briefly examined. The most notable transformations were conversion of the enolacetate of the spirooxindole to the corresponding ketone and {\ensuremath{\alpha}}-acetoxyketone.} } @unpublished{pittir13738, month = {October}, title = {SYNTHETIC AND BIOLOGICAL STUDIES ON ANALOGUES OF FR901464 AND TMC-205}, author = {Sami Osman}, year = {2012}, keywords = {FR901464, TMC-205}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13738/}, abstract = {FR901464 is a natural product that elicits anticancer activity via inhibition of pre-mRNA splicing, a novel therapeutic approach. Through structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies on FR901464, the Koide group reported a potent stable synthetic analogue of FR901464, meayamycin B (GI50 4 ? 211 pM). An objective of this thesis was to probe electrophilic sites of meayamycin B through SAR anaylsis. This studies in this thesis provided insights into the effects of cis-C2?-C3? enamide and epoxide moieties. A newly synthesized inhibitor, in which the epoxide was replaced with a ketone, exhibited elevated inhibition against cellular proliferation. Cell growth assays illustrated that this analogue inhibited the proliferation of cells in an irreversible manner. Addtionally, an in vivo study led to the development of meayamycin C which, although less potent than meayamycin and meayamycin B, exhibited single digit nanomolar GI50 values and selectivity to inhibit the proliferation of certain human cancer cells. Continuing with the design of pre-mRNA splicing inhibition tools, we also report the preparation and evaluation of two tetraethylene-linked derivatives of meayamycin. These two derivatives inhibited the proliferation of human cell lines and pre-mRNA splicing in cells. Structurally, one of the derivatives is far less complex than tetraethylene glycol-linked meayamycin, though still retained sufficient inhibitory activity towards cell proliferation and pre-mRNA splicing. These two compounds have the potential serve as starting points for conjugatable FR901464 analogues. Furthermore, a new synthetic route for meayamycin is described. The new route consists of 8 steps to prepare the western fragment, followed by a final cross metathesis interchange strategy between the right half and FR901464 to yield meayamycin. This is the shortest synthetic approach to prepare meayamycin. Finally, a study was begun on TMC-205, which was discovered in 2001 in a similar manner to FR901464. The work in this dissertation reports the first synthesis of TMC-205 and developed analogues, including alcohol 3.21, an eight-fold more potent analogue of TMC-205. Importantly, there is a range of TMC-205 and analogue 3.13 concentrations where the compounds activate an SV40-controlled gene without detectable antiproliferative activity.} } @article{pittir29970, volume = {13}, month = {January}, title = {Improving ChIP-seq peak-calling for functional co-regulator binding by integrating multiple sources of biological information}, author = {HU Osmanbeyoglu and RJ Hartmaier and S Oesterreich and X Lu}, year = {2012}, journal = {Series on Advances in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29970/}, abstract = {Background: Chromatin immunoprecipitation coupled with massively parallel sequencing (ChIP-seq) is increasingly being applied to study genome-wide binding sites of transcription factors. There is an increasing interest in understanding the mechanism of action of co-regulator proteins, which do not bind DNA directly, but exert their effects by binding to transcription factors such as the estrogen receptor (ER). However, due to the nature of detecting indirect protein-DNA interaction, ChIP-seq signals from co-regulators can be relatively weak and thus biologically meaningful interactions remain difficult to identify.} } @unpublished{pittir16918, month = {December}, title = {INFORMATION INTEGRATION APPROACHES FOR INVESTIGATING ESTROGEN RECEPTOR MEDIATED TRANSCRIPTION}, author = {Hatice Ulku Osmanbeyoglu}, year = {2012}, keywords = {gene regulation, bioinformatics, estrogen receptor alpha}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16918/}, abstract = {Estrogen plays essential roles in the function of normal physiology and diseases. Its effects are mainly mediated through two intracellular estrogen receptors, ER{\ensuremath{\alpha}} and ER{\ensuremath{\beta}}, which belong to a family of nuclear receptors (NRs) functioning as transcription regulators. In the first part of this thesis, we aim to derive a holistic view of the transcription machineries at estrogen-responsive genes and further, to reveal different mechanisms of estrogen-mediated transcription regulation. In order to achieve this, we integrated and systematically dissected a variety of genome-wide high-throughput datasets, including gene expression arrays, ChIP-seq, GRO-seq, and ChIA-PET. Our analyses have led to the following novel findings: In the absence of the ligand, most of the estrogen-responsive genes assumed a high-order chromatin configuration that involved Pol II, ER{\ensuremath{\alpha}} and ER{\ensuremath{\alpha}}-pioneer factors. Without the ligand, estrogen-induced genes showed active transcription at promoters but failed to elongate into gene bodies, and such a pause was lifted after estrogen treatment. However, the estrogen-repressed genes showed coordinated transcription at promoters and gene bodies in the absence and presence of estrogen. Through information integration, we inferred that, for estrogen-repressed genes, the majority of the high-order chromatin complexes containing actively transcribed genes were disrupted after estrogen treatment. The analyses led to the hypothesis that one mechanism for estrogen-mediated repression is through disrupting the original transcription-favoring chromatin structures. Further, nuclear receptors such as ERs interact with co-regulators to regulate gene transcription. Understanding the mechanism of action of co-regulator proteins{--}which do not bind DNA directly, but exert their effects by binding to transcription factors{--}is important for the study of normal physiology as well as diseased conditions. However, due to the nature of detecting indirect protein-DNA interaction, ChIP-seq signals from co-regulators can be relatively weak and thus biologically meaningful interactions remain difficult to identify. In the second part of this thesis, we investigated and compared different machine learning approaches to integrate multiple types of genomic and transcriptomic information derived from our experiments and from public databases. This helped us to overcome the difficulty of identifying functional DNA binding sites of the co-regulator SRC-1 in the context of estrogen response. Our results indicate that supervised learning with the na{\"i}ve Bayes algorithm significantly enhanced the peak calling of weak ChIP-seq signals and outperformed other machine learning algorithms. Our integrative approach revealed many potential ER{\ensuremath{\alpha}}/SRC-1 DNA binding sites that would otherwise be missed by conventional peak calling algorithms with default settings.} } @article{pittir16010, volume = {21}, number = {6}, month = {June}, author = {LK Ott and MR Pinsky and LA Hoffman and SP Clarke and S Clark and D Ren and M Hravnak}, title = {Medical emergency team calls in the radiology department: Patient characteristics and outcomes}, journal = {BMJ Quality and Safety}, pages = {509 -- 518}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16010/}, abstract = {Objective: We sought to identify the characteristics of patients who experience medical emergency team calls in the radiology department (MET-RD) and the relationship between these characteristics and patient outcomes. Design/participants: Retrospective review of 111 inpatient MET-RD calls (May 2008eApril 2010). Setting: Academic medical centre with a well established MET system. Measurements: The characteristics of patients before, during and after transport to radiology were extracted from medical records and administrative databases. These characteristics were compared between patients with good and poor outcomes. Main results: The majority of patients who experience MET-RD calls had a Charlson Comorbidity Index ?4 and were from non-intensive care units (60\%). Almost half (43\%) of MET-RD calls occurred during patients'first day in hospital. Patients commonly arrived with nasal cannula oxygen (38\%), recent tachypnoea (28\%) and tachycardia (34\%). A minority (16\%) fulfilled MET call criteria in the 12 h before the MET-RD. MET-RD etiologies were cardiac (41\%), respiratory (29\%) or neurological (25\%), and occurred most frequently during CT (44\%) and MRI (22\%) testing. Post METRD, the majority of patients (70\%) required a higher level of care. Death before discharge (25\%) was associated with need for cardiovascular support prior to RD transport (p=0.02), need for RD monitoring (p=0.02) and need for heightened RD surveillance (p=0.04). Conclusions: The majority of patients who experienced MET-RD calls came from non-intensive care units, with comorbidities and vital sign alterations prior to arrival at the RD. Risk appeared to be increased for those requiring CT and MRI. These findings suggest that prior identification of a subset of patients at risk of instability in the RD may be possible.} } @unpublished{pittir6212, month = {February}, title = {Optimal Design of the Annual Influenza Vaccine}, author = {Osman / OY Ozaltin}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Operations research, mixed-integer programming, multistage stochastic programming, bilevel programming, column generation, branch-and-price, oligopolistic market, influenza vaccine design.}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/6212/}, abstract = {Seasonal influenza is a major public health concern, and the first line of defense is the flu shot. Antigenic drifts and the high rate of influenza transmission require annual updates to the flu shot composition. The World Health Organization recommends which flu strains to include in the annual vaccine based on surveillance and epidemiological analysis. There are two critical decisions regarding the flu shot design. One is its composition; currently, three strains constitute the flu shot, and they influence vaccine effectiveness. Another critical decision is the timing of the composition decisions, which affects the flu shot production. Both of these decisions have to be made under uncertainty many months before the flu season starts. We quantify the trade offs involved through multistage stochastic mixed-integer programs that determine the optimal flu shot composition and its timing in a stochastic and dynamic environment. Our first model takes the view of a social planner, and optimizes strain selections based on a production plan that is provided by the flu shot manufacturers. It also incorporates risk-sensitivity through mean-risk models. Our second model relaxes the exogenous production planning assumption and, hence, provides a more accurate representation of the hierarchical decision mechanism between a social planner, who selects the flu shot strains, and the manufacturers, who make the flu shot available. We derive structural properties of both models, and calibrate them using publicly available data. The flu shot strains are updated based on clinical, virological and immunological surveillance. In the virological surveillance, hemagglutinin inhibition assays are used to identify antigenic properties of the influenza viruses. However, this serology assay is labor-intensive and time-consuming. As an alternative, pairwise amino acid sequence comparison of influenza strains is used in statistical learning models to identify positions that cause antigenic variety. The performance of these models is evaluated by cross validation. In Chapter 5, we formulate cross validation as a bilevel program where an upper-level program chooses the model variables to minimize the out-of-sample error, and lower-level problems in each fold optimize in-sample errors according to their training data set by selecting the regression coefficients of the chosen model variables. We provide an extensive computational study using clinical data, and identify amino acid positions that significantly contribute to antigenic variety of influenza strains.} } @article{pittir29808, volume = {13}, number = {1}, month = {October}, title = {Chronic self-administration of alcohol results in elevated {\ensuremath{\Delta}}FosB: Comparison of hybrid mice with distinct drinking patterns}, author = {AR Ozburn and RD Mayfield and I Ponomarev and TA Jones and YA Blednov and RA Harris}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Neuroscience}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29808/}, abstract = {Background: The inability to reduce or regulate alcohol intake is a hallmark symptom for alcohol use disorders. Research on novel behavioral and genetic models of experience-induced changes in drinking will further our knowledge on alcohol use disorders. Distinct alcohol self-administration behaviors were previously observed when comparing two F1 hybrid strains of mice: C57BL/6J x NZB/B1NJ (BxN) show reduced alcohol preference after experience with high concentrations of alcohol and periods of abstinence while C57BL/6J x FVB/NJ (BxF) show sustained alcohol preference. These phenotypes are interesting because these hybrids demonstrate the occurrence of genetic additivity (BxN) and overdominance (BxF) in ethanol intake in an experience dependent manner. Specifically, BxF exhibit sustained alcohol preference and BxN exhibit reduced alcohol preference after experience with high ethanol concentrations; however, experience with low ethanol concentrations produce sustained alcohol preference for both hybrids. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that these phenotypes are represented by differential production of the inducible transcription factor, {\ensuremath{\Delta}}FosB, in reward, aversion, and stress related brain regions.Results: Changes in neuronal plasticity (as measured by {\ensuremath{\Delta}}FosB levels) were experience dependent, as well as brain region and genotype specific, further supporting that neuronal circuitry underlies motivational aspects of ethanol consumption. BxN mice exhibiting reduced alcohol preference had lower {\ensuremath{\Delta}}FosB levels in the Edinger-Westphal nucleus than mice exhibiting sustained alcohol preference, and increased {\ensuremath{\Delta}}FosB levels in central medial amygdala as compared with control mice. BxN mice showing sustained alcohol preference exhibited higher {\ensuremath{\Delta}}FosB levels in the ventral tegmental area, Edinger-Westphal nucleus, and amygdala (central and lateral divisions). Moreover, in BxN mice {\ensuremath{\Delta}}FosB levels in the Edinger-Westphal nucleus and ventral tegmental regions significantly positively correlated with ethanol preference and intake. Additionally, hierarchical clustering analysis revealed that many ethanol-na{\"i}ve mice with overall low {\ensuremath{\Delta}}FosB levels are in a cluster, whereas many mice displaying sustained alcohol preference with overall high {\ensuremath{\Delta}}FosB levels are in a cluster together.Conclusions: By comparing and contrasting two alcohol phenotypes, this study demonstrates that the reward- and stress-related circuits (including the Edinger-Westphal nucleus, ventral tegmental area, amygdala) undergo significant plasticity that manifests as reduced alcohol preference. {\copyright} 2012 Ozburn et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir14435, volume = {113}, number = {4}, month = {January}, author = {A Ozturk and A Potluri and AR Vieira}, title = {Position and course of the mandibular canal in skulls}, journal = {Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology and Oral Radiology}, pages = {453 -- 458}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14435/}, abstract = {Objective. The aim of this study was to examine and describe the topography of the mandibular canal (MC) in both vertical and occlusal dimensions. Study Design. Fifty-two adult skulls deposited in the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine skull collection were evaluated in this study. Cone-beam computerized tomographic scans of each skull were obtained. Results. The vertical course of MC was classified into 3 types: straight projection (12.2\%), catenary-like configuration (51.1\%), and progressive descent from posterior to anterior (36.7\%). The evaluation of the buccolingual dimension showed that the mandibular canal was located either in contact with or close to the lingual cortical plate ({\ensuremath{\mu}}2 mm) in the molar region of the majority of the cases. As it proceeds anteriorly it moves toward the buccal aspect of the mandible, where it finally emerges through the mental foramen. Three emerging patterns of mandibular canal were observed: sharp turn (53.2\%), soft curved exit (28.8\%), and straight path (17.4\%). The examination of the vertical dimension showed that the canal was located almost 1 cm above the inferior border of the mandible and then ascended to reach the mental foramen, which is located 16 mm (range 13.4-20.3 mm) above the inferior border of the mandible. We found a strong correlation between height of the mandible and location of the mental foramen (r 0.64; P{\ensuremath{>}} .0001). Conclusions. The course of mandibular canal described in vertical and axial dimensions and variation in its path have been classified. In addition to variation in location of MC, it has different anatomic configurations which clinicians should be familiar with in any surgical procedures involving the posterior mandible. {\copyright} 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.} } @unpublished{pittir16513, month = {December}, title = {INVESTIGATING ALLOSTERIC REGULATION OF ABL AND BCR-ABL KINASES: IMPLICATIONS FOR SMALL MOLECULE INHIBITORS}, author = {SHOGHAG PANJARIAN}, year = {2012}, keywords = {allosteric regulation, kinases}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16513/}, abstract = {BCR-ABL is the oncogenic protein-tyrosine kinase responsible for the pathogenesis of chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). Clinical management of CML has been revolutionized by imatinib, a selective ATP-competitive inhibitor of BCR-ABL kinase activity. Despite this clinical success, imatinib is less effective in advanced disease due to the emergence of drug resistant BCR-ABL mutants. Resistant mutations often arise in the drug binding site and include the most recalcitrant gatekeeper mutation, T315I. Other mutations arise outside the active site and allosterically reduce imatinib binding by promoting the active kinase conformation. Recently, a new class of allosteric BCR-ABL inhibitors, of which GNF-2 is the prototype, has been reported that targets the myristate-binding pocket of ABL. These compounds stabilize the inactive conformation of ABL and work in concert with ATP-competitive inhibitors to overcome imatinib resistance. Mounting evidence supports a regulatory influence of the non-catalytic SH3 and SH2 domains on BCR-ABL kinase domain. The major focus of this study was to exploit the intramolecular SH3:linker interaction, to stabilize the downregulated kinase domain conformation of BCR-ABL and sensitize the kinase to both imatinib and GNF-2. To achieve this goal, I engineered High Affinity Linker (HAL) variants of both ABL and BCR-ABL in which SH3:linker interaction was tightened through sequential addition of proline residues to the linker. Enhanced SH3:linker interaction induced long-range suppressive effects on the kinase activity in c-ABL, allosterically stabilized both the active site and the myristate-binding pocket, and sensitized BCR-ABL to small molecule inhibitors. Src family kinases (SFKs) are important mediators of BCR-ABL signal transduction and oncogenesis in CML. SFKs also play important roles in clinical resistance to imatinib in the absence of BCR-ABL mutations. In the second part of my project, I explored the effect of SFK- selective inhibitor, pyrazolopyrimidine A-419259, on myeloid cells transformed with clinically relevant imatinib resistant BCR-ABL mutants. While proliferation of cells expressing BCR-ABL E255V and Y253H was inhibited by A-419259, BCR-ABL T315I cells were not. Surprisingly, cells expressing BCR-ABL-T315I maintained SFK activity in the presence of the inhibitor. This observation suggests that BCR-ABL-T315I induces cross-resistance to drugs that inhibit SFKs in CML through direct phosphorylation of the SFKs. } } @unpublished{pittir12705, month = {September}, title = {INTERTEMPORAL CHOICES WITH TEMPORAL PREFERENCES}, author = {HYEON / S. PARK}, year = {2012}, keywords = {INTERTEMPORAL CHOICES, TEMPORAL PREFERENCES, BEHAVIORAL ECONOMICS, BOUNDED RATIONALITY, PRESENT-BIASED PREFERENCE, REFERENCE-DEPENDENT PREFERENCE, CHARITABLE GIVING}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12705/}, abstract = {This dissertation explores the general equilibrium implications of inter-temporal decision-making from a behavioral perspective. The decision makers in my essays have psychology-driven, non-traditional preferences and they either have short term planning horizons, due to bounded rationality (Essay 1), or have present biased preferences (Essay 2) or their utilities depend not only on the periodic consumption but are also dependent upon their expectations about present and future optimal consumption (Essay 3). Finally, they get utilities from the act of caring for others through giving and volunteering (Essay 4). The decision makers who are defined by these preferences are re-optimizing over time if they realize that their past decisions for today are no longer optimal and this is the key mechanism that helps replicate the mean lifecycle consumption data, which is known to be hump-shaped over the lifecycle. In the first essay, I prove that there is an income structure that leads to a consumption hump for each time preference. Searching via simulation, I find the best planning horizon that is compatible with matching data for the US economy. In the second essay, I find that the consumption hump is obtained even without the credit constraint if the agent is naive and keeps re-optimizing over time. In a third essay, I demonstrate that reference-dependent preferences can also generate a hump-shaped consumption profile when the agent has age-dependent loss aversion. In the fourth and the final essay, I show how the inclusion of time endowment generates full-blown lifecycle pattern of not only consumption, but also giving, leisure, and volunteer time, which closely follow the data.} } @article{pittir14157, volume = {7}, number = {3}, month = {March}, title = {Beta defensin-2 is reduced in central but not in distal airways of smoker COPD patients}, author = {E Pace and M Ferraro and MI Minervini and P Vitulo and L Pipitone and G Chiappara and L Siena and AM Montalbano and M Johnson and M Gjomarkaj}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14157/}, abstract = {Background: Altered pulmonary defenses in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may promote distal airways bacterial colonization. The expression/activation of Toll Like receptors (TLR) and beta 2 defensin (HBD2) release by epithelial cells crucially affect pulmonary defence mechanisms. Methods: The epithelial expression of TLR4 and of HBD2 was assessed in surgical specimens from current smokers COPD (s-COPD; n = 17), ex-smokers COPD (ex-s-COPD; n = 8), smokers without COPD (S; n = 12), and from non-smoker non-COPD subjects (C; n = 13). Results: In distal airways, s-COPD highly expressed TLR4 and HBD2. In central airways, S and s-COPD showed increased TLR4 expression. Lower HBD2 expression was observed in central airways of s-COPD when compared to S and to ex-s-COPD. s-COPD had a reduced HBD2 gene expression as demonstrated by real-time PCR on micro-dissected bronchial epithelial cells. Furthermore, HBD2 expression positively correlated with FEV1/FVC ratio and inversely correlated with the cigarette smoke exposure. In a bronchial epithelial cell line (16 HBE) IL-1{\ensuremath{\beta}} significantly induced the HBD2 mRNA expression and cigarette smoke extracts significantly counteracted this IL-1 mediated effect reducing both the activation of NFkB pathway and the interaction between NFkB and HBD2 promoter. Conclusions: This study provides new insights on the possible mechanisms involved in the alteration of innate immunity mechanisms in COPD. {\copyright} 2012 Pace et al.} } @article{pittir18037, volume = {74}, number = {1}, month = {November}, title = {What You Are Depends on Where You're Standing: How Expanding Refugee Protections to the Internally Displaced through the Refugee Act of 1980 Violates International Law}, author = {Matthew T. Clyde Pace}, year = {2012}, journal = {University of Pittsburgh Law Review}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18037/} } @unpublished{pittir11871, month = {July}, title = {?BECAUSE WE ARE ALONE?? ARGUMENTS FOR HUMANS AS THE UNIVERSE?S ONLY INTELLIGENT LIFE FORM FROM ANCIENT PHILOSOPHERS TO TODAY?S SCIENTISTS}, author = {Joseph Packer}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Cosmology; Rhetoric; Aquinas; Plato; William Whewell; Rhetoric of Science, Unity, Plurality of Worlds}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11871/}, abstract = {Does alien life exist? This perennial question has driven some of humanity?s oldest scientific debates, going back to the ancient Greeks. My work investigates the way individuals have rhetorically deployed speculations about the impossibility of extraterrestrial life to advance other values and beliefs. Specifically, my research traces the unity-of-the-world cosmology or ?unity,? for short, meaning the belief that humans are the only intelligent life form in the universe, in contrast to the ?plurality-of worlds? one, or ?plurality,? which holds open the possibility of multiple intelligent life forms. The unity rhetorical cosmology connects the absence of alien life with the idea of human value and transcendental, absolute ethics. Because ?we? are alone, ?we? are special, the thinking goes. My dissertation traces the way cosmology serves as an argument in religious, political, and philosophical debates. Specifically, it examines the way that individuals have used claims of the absence of alien life to justify moral absolutism, teleology, and anthropocentrism, from Plato to the present day. The dissertation examines major historical figures as case studies including: Plato, Aquinas, William Whewell, and Alfred Russel Wallace. I draw on Kenneth Burke, Roland Barthes, and rhetoric-of-science literature (as well as many other sources) in order to unveil the hidden rhetorical meaning of a cosmology.} } @article{pittir21952, volume = {1}, number = {1}, title = {Is the Supercourse useful for Latin America?}, author = {Nicolas Padilla-Raygoza and Faina Linkov and Eugene Shubnikov and Ron E LaPorte and Rosalina Diaz-Guerrero}, year = {2012}, pages = {9 -- ?}, journal = {Cent Asian J Glob Health}, keywords = {Latin America, Supercourse, education}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/21952/}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The success of the Supercourse showed that the effort was needed in Latin America. But would a Spanish language version be better for the region? METHODS: Google Analytics was used to determine website usage. A custom evaluation form was created to get user feedback on the usefulness of both the English language and Spanish language Supercouse lectures. RESULTS: Over a year's span from June 2009 to June 2010 there were 257,403 unique visits and 448,939 page views. The overall average rating of lectures was 4.87 with the Spanish language lectures getting even higher ratings. CONCLUSION: Supercourse lectures in Spanish were a great success in Latin America. This success shows the need for this information and similar success could be found in Central Asia.} } @article{pittir19166, volume = {19}, number = {4}, month = {December}, author = {K Pahlavan and G Bao and Y Ye and S Makarov and U Khan and P Swar and D Cave and A Karellas and P Krishnamurthy and K Sayrafian}, title = {RF localization for wireless video capsule endoscopy}, journal = {International Journal of Wireless Information Networks}, pages = {326 -- 340}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19166/}, abstract = {RF localization science and technology started with the global positioning systems for outdoor areas, and it then transformed into wireless indoor geolocation. The next step in the evolution of this science is the transformation into RF localization inside the human body. The first major application for this technology is the localization of the wireless video capsule endoscope (VCE) that has been in the clinical arena for 12 years. While physicians can receive clear images of abnormalities in the gastrointestinal tract with VCE devices, they have little idea of their exact location inside the GI tract. To localize intestinal abnormalities, physicians routinely use radiological, endoscopic or surgical operations. If we could use the RF signal radiated from the capsule to also locate these devices, not only can physicians discover medical problems, but they can also learn where the problems are located. However, finding a realistic RF localization solution for the endoscopy capsule is a very challenging task, because the inside of the human body is a difficult environment for experimentation and visualization. In addition, we have no-idea how the capsule moves and rotates in its 3D journey in this non-homogeneous medium for radio propagation. In this paper, we describe how we can design a cyber physical system (CPS) for experimental testing and visualization of interior of the human body that can be used for solving the RF localization problem for the endoscopy capsule. We also address the scientific challenges that face and the appropriate technical approaches for solving this problem. {\copyright} 2012 Springer Science+Business Media New York.} } @incollection{pittir23033, booktitle = {Psychology of Science: Implicit and Explicit Processes}, month = {September}, title = {Digging into Implicit/Explicit States and Processes: The Case of Cognitive/Social Process Interaction in Scientific Groups}, author = {SBF Paletz and CD Schunn}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/23033/}, abstract = {Research in the psychology of science has typically fallen into separate, isolated subfields within psychology. This chapter examines two models that tie together social and cognitive psychological variables important in the development of innovation in multidisciplinary science teams, separately considering convergent versus divergent creative processes. The models are theoretically examined from the perspective of explicit and implicit elements. The chapter then draws on a recent study examining the moment-by-moment interplay of conflict (a social variable) and analogy (a cognitive variable) in a real-world multidisciplinary science team to examine the empirical nature of connections between social and cognitive models. While both conflict and analogies can be implicit and explicit simultaneously, the significant connections between these two variables seem to be mainly implicit, drawing on underlying knowledge structures and differences.} } @unpublished{pittir13583, month = {September}, title = {FROM DINOSAURS TO DISCIPLINARY THINKING: EXPLORING THE IMPACT OF CHILDREN?S KNOWLEDGE ON FAMILY LEARNING TALK IN A DESIGNED LEARNING ENVIRONMENT}, author = {Sasha Palmquist}, year = {2012}, keywords = {expertise, parent-child, sociocultural, discourse analysis}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13583/}, abstract = {This study explored the influence of young children?s dinosaur knowledge on parent-child learning talk in a dinosaur exhibition designed to support visitor engagement with disciplinary concepts. A knowledge assessment interview identified children between the age of 5 and 8 years old with expert and novice levels of dinosaur knowledge. Families completed a pre-test, a visit to a museum exhibition, and a post-test. Content and discourse analysis were used to examine the patterns of learning talk generated by 30 families{--}15 with experts and 15 with novices. Findings suggest the designed learning environment effectively supported parent engagement in a wide range of learning talk regardless of children?s level of dinosaur knowledge. However, findings also indicated that expert children initiated and engaged in disciplinary learning talk more than novice children. In addition, expert children and their parents were more equally engaged in disciplinary learning talk while in contrast novice parents initiated and managed significantly more of this kind of learning talk than their children. Taken together, these findings indicate that child knowledge can influence family opportunities to engage in learning talk about disciplinary concepts and suggest implications for the design of informal learning environments that can support increased family engagement with complex science concepts like ecology and evolution.} } @article{pittir17951, volume = {134}, number = {12}, month = {March}, author = {X Pan and E Lac{\^o}te and J Lalev{\'e}e and DP Curran}, title = {Polarity reversal catalysis in radical reductions of halides by N-heterocyclic carbene boranes}, journal = {Journal of the American Chemical Society}, pages = {5669 -- 5674}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17951/}, abstract = {Otherwise sluggish or completely ineffective radical reductions of alkyl and aryl halides by N-heterocyclic carbene boranes (NHC-boranes) are catalyzed by thiols. Reductions and reductive cyclizations with readily available 1,3-dimethylimidazol-2-ylidene borane and a water-soluble triazole relative are catalyzed by thiophenol and tert-dodecanethiol [C 9H 19C(CH 3) 2SH]. Rate constants for reaction of the phenylthiyl (PhS?) radical with two NHC-boranes have been measured to be {$\sim$}10 8 M -1 s -1 by laser flash photolysis experiments. An analysis of the available evidence suggests the operation of polarity reversal catalysis. {\copyright} 2012 American Chemical Society.} } @article{pittir5967, volume = {17}, number = {3}, month = {June}, author = {K Panyim and P Krishnamurthy}, title = {A hybrid key predistribution scheme for sensor networks employing spatial retreats to cope with jamming attacks}, journal = {Mobile Networks and Applications}, pages = {327 -- 341}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/5967/}, abstract = {In order to provide security services in wireless sensor networks, a well-known task is to provide cryptographic keys to sensor nodes prior to deployment. It is difficult to assign secret keys for all pairs of sensor node when the number of nodes is large due to the large numbers of keys required and limited memory resources of sensor nodes. One possible solution is to randomly assign a few keys to sensor nodes and have nodes be able to connect to each other with some probability. This scheme has limitations in terms of the tradeoffs between connectivity and memory requirements. Recently, sensor deployment knowledge has been used to improve the level of connectivity while using lesser amounts of memory space. However, deployment based key predistribution schemes may cause a large number of nodes to be cryptographically isolated if nodes move after key pre-distribution. Mobility may be necessitated for reasons depending on applications or scenarios. In this paper, we consider mobility due to spatial retreat of nodes under jamming attacks as an example. Jamming attacks are easy and efficient means for disruption of the connectivity of sensors and thus the operation of a sensor network.One solution formobile sensor nodes to overcome the impact of jamming is to perform spatial retreats by moving nodes away from jammed regions. Moved nodes may not be able to reconnect to the network because they do not have any shared secret with new neighbors at new locations if strict deployment knowledge based key predistribution is employed. In this paper, we propose a hybrid key predistribution scheme that supports spatial retreat strategies to cope with jamming attacks. Our scheme combines the properties of random and deployment knowledge based key predistribution schemes. In the presence of jamming attacks, our scheme provides high key connectivity (similar to deployment knowledge based schemes) while reducing the number of isolated nodes. We evaluate the performance of our scheme through simulations and analysis. {\copyright} Springer Science+Business Media, LLC 2010.} } @unpublished{pittir16910, month = {November}, title = {Inspire Consulting, LLC A Worksite Wellness Company}, school = {University of Pittsburgh}, author = {Zachary Papalia}, publisher = {University of Pittsburgh}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Worksite, wellness, employee, wellness, health, consulting, wellness, consulting, preventive, medicine, lifestyle, modification, exercise, as, medicine}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16910/}, abstract = {Currently our nation is facing skyrocketing healthcare costs, near-epidemic obesity levels, and debilitating chronic disease prevalence. The impact of obesity and affiliated chronic diseases is a major burden on our healthcare system and economy, and are of extreme public health significance. Inspire Consulting, LLC is a Pittsburgh-area health and wellness consulting firm focused on leveraging the worksite to promote healthy lifestyle behaviors. The mission of this company will be to determine the health and wellness needs of a client?s employees and address them through programs and resources necessary to facilitate the establishment and maintenance of a healthy lifestyle. In doing so, the company will lessen the prevalence and burden of many chronic diseases, enhancing not only the client?s economic wellbeing but overall public health as well.} } @article{pittir24648, month = {December}, title = {FRED navigator: An interactive system for visualizing results from large-scale epidemic simulations}, author = {J Paparian and S Brown and D Burke and J Grefenstette}, year = {2012}, journal = {2012 IEEE 8th International Conference on E-Science, e-Science 2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/24648/}, abstract = {Large-scale simulations are increasingly used to evaluate potential public health interventions in epidemics such as the H1N1 pandemic of 2009. Due to variations in both disease scenarios and in interventions, it is typical to run thousands of simulations as part of a given study. This paper addresses the challenge of visualizing the results from a large number of simulation runs. We describe a new tool called FRED Navigator that allows a user to interactively visualize results from the FRED agent-based modeling system. {\copyright}2012 IEEE.} } @article{pittir29861, volume = {13}, number = {S1}, month = {July}, author = {Choongseok Park and Yaroslav Molkov and Alona Ben-Tal and Natalia Shevtsova and Jeffrey Smith and Ilya Rybak and Jonathan Rubin}, title = {A closed model for the respiratory system in mammals}, publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC}, journal = {BMC Neuroscience}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29861/} } @article{pittir29859, volume = {13}, number = {Suppl }, title = {Mechanisms of pathological synchrony in Parkinson?s disease induced by changes in synaptic and cellular properties due to dopamine}, author = {Choongseok Park and Leonid L Rubchinsky}, year = {2012}, pages = {P54 -- P54}, journal = {BMC Neuroscience}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29859/} } @unpublished{pittir10901, month = {January}, title = {FOREIGN MOTHERS? CULTURAL AND SOCIAL CAPITAL AND MATERNAL INVOLVEMENT IN THEIR CHILDREN?S EDUCATION: CASE STUDY OF A COMMUNITY IN SOUTH KOREA}, author = {Heejin Park}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Foreign mothers, foreign brides, maternal involvement, parental involvement, South Korea, interracial families, interracial children, social capital, cultural capital}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10901/}, abstract = {Cross-border marriages, which typically involve female marriage immigrants (so-called ?foreign brides?), have increased in South Korea in recent years. Only a limited number of interracial children from those marriages currently attend the extremely homogenous South Korean schools yet, but more are expected to do so in the near future. This dissertation explores the process of foreign mothers? involvement in their children?s education, particularly their access to, and use of cultural and social capital. I present a, conceptual framework, ?The process of foreign mothers? involvement in their children?s education,? To help understand these mothers? experiences regarding their children?s education Twenty foreign mothers were interviewed in a rural community in South Korea about their social and cultural capital surrounding their home-based and school-based involvement in their children?s education. Social events that foreign mothers attended were also observed, and ten additional people were interviewed including foreign mothers? spouses, friends, neighbors, and Korean language teachers,. Findings show that most foreign mothers took the roles of the major caregivers? and educators? in their family, had high aspirations regarding their children?s education, and were therefore willing to support them. Frequently, however, foreign mothers were perceived by both themselves and their family members as incapable of properly engaging in their children?s education. Given their immigrant background, their knowledge of Korean language and culture were presumed to be insufficient. Nonetheless, they were expected to be involved in their children?s education in the manner of South Korean mothers. Their original languages and cultures were often considered irrelevant for their children?s development. Accordingly, most foreign mothers appeared to be frustrated with the standard of parenting that required them to emulate South Korean mothers. The exception to this was a minority who refused the monolingual and monocultural ideologies or who were already proficiency in Korean language and culture at the time of immigration. Most foreign mothers? social relationships were restricted within the boundaries of geographic proximity or the same ethnic groups and rarely included native South Koreans, which explains their limited information channels. In some cases, Korean language teachers and families acted as bridges for mothers to Korean society. Findings increase the understanding of immigrant mothers? experiences in South Korea and provide important education policy implications. } } @article{pittir23377, volume = {112}, number = {7}, month = {October}, title = {Structural change in polar nanoregion in alkali niobate added Pb(Zn {\ensuremath{<}}inf{\ensuremath{>}}1/3{\ensuremath{<}}/inf{\ensuremath{>}}Nb {\ensuremath{<}}inf{\ensuremath{>}}2/3{\ensuremath{<}}/inf{\ensuremath{>}}) {\ensuremath{<}}inf{\ensuremath{>}}0.95{\ensuremath{<}}/inf{\ensuremath{>}}Ti {\ensuremath{<}}inf{\ensuremath{>}}0.05{\ensuremath{<}}/inf{\ensuremath{>}}O {\ensuremath{<}}inf{\ensuremath{>}}3{\ensuremath{<}}/inf{\ensuremath{>}} single crystal and its effect on ferroelectric properties}, author = {JS Park and Y Jung and JK Lee}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of Applied Physics}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/23377/}, abstract = {Pb(Zn 1/3Nb 2/3) 0.95Ti 0.05O 3 (PZNT) single crystals with 5 mol.\% alkali niobate such as LiNbO 3 (LN), NaNbO 3 (NN), and KNbO 3 (KN) were fabricated by using a flux method to investigate the effect of A-site cation radius on the structure and ferroelectric properties of PZNT under electric field (E-field). Their structure and properties showed different electric field dependence. Polarization versus electric field and strain versus electric field curves of PZNT-0.05LN showed E-field induced phase transition from a relaxor state to a normal ferroelectric state. However, only relaxor behavior was observed in PZNT-0.05NN and PZNT-0.05KN. The effect of A-site ion doping is attributed to the change in local lattice distortion and polar nano-region. When smaller cation such as Li ion substitutes Pb ion, the off-center displacement of Nb ion stabilizes rhombohedral lattice distortion. They, in turn, facilitate the development of macro-domains under electric field (E-field) in PZNT-0.05LN. In contrast, the substitution of Pb with larger cations such as Ni and K decreases the rhombohedral distortion of PZNT, which leads to the disappearance of unique E-field induced phase transition from rhombohedral to tetragonal phase in PZNT. Therefore, non-linear electrostrictive behavior of relaxor ferroelectrics is found in PZNT-0.05NN and PZNT-0.05KN. {\copyright} 2012 American Institute of Physics.} } @article{pittir29787, volume = {11}, month = {December}, title = {Filial piety and parental responsibility: An interpretive phenomenological study of family caregiving for a person with mental illness among Korean immigrants}, author = {M Park}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Nursing}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29787/}, abstract = {Background: Despite the strong influence of culture on family involvement in disease management, few studies have examined how immigrant families care for persons with mental illness. The purpose of this study was to examine how immigrant families organize their world to care for a mentally ill person in the United States. The current analysis focused on how Confucian notions of filial piety and parental obligation shape caregiving in Korean immigrant families.Methods: Participants in this interpretive phenomenological study were comprised of six Korean immigrant women caring for a family member with mental illness. Participants provided narratives that illustrate challenges and opportunities in caring for their mentally ill family member.Results: Three family caregiving patterns were discerned. Insulating from the outside world describes a family's effort to accept a member's illness and to manage it within the family. Prioritizing education over well-being concerns parental commitment to the Confucian priority of educating one's children. Reciprocating the sacrifice describes how a family adapts and enacts filial piety.Conclusion: The findings of this study warrant further study to examine the influence of Confucianism among Korean American families. The three patterns of caregiving are strongly aligned with Confucian notion of family and family engagement. These patterns may help health providers to anticipate the needs of and provide individualized, culturally appropriate mental health care for patients with mental illness and their families of Korean origin. {\copyright} 2012 Park; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir14017, volume = {7}, number = {2}, month = {February}, title = {Nocturia, sleep-disordered breathing, and cardiovascular morbidity in a community-based cohort}, author = {S Parthasarathy and MP Fitzgerald and JL Goodwin and M Unruh and S Guerra and SF Quan}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14017/}, abstract = {Background: Nocturia has been independently associated with cardiovascular morbidity and all-cause mortality, but such studies did not adjust for sleep-disordered breathing (SDB), which may have mediated such a relationship. Our aims were to determine whether an association between nocturia and cardiovascular morbidity exists that is independent of SDB. We also determined whether nocturia is independently associated with SDB. Methodology/Principal Findings: In order to accomplish these aims we performed a cross-sectional analysis of the Sleep Heart Health Study that contained information regarding SDB, nocturia, and cardiovascular morbidity in a middle-age to elderly community-based population. In 6342 participants (age 63{$\pm$}11 [SD] years, 53\% women), after adjusting for known confounders such as age, body mass index, diuretic use, diabetes mellitus, alpha-blocker use, nocturia was independently associated with SDB (measured as Apnea Hypopnea index {\ensuremath{>}}15 per hour; OR 1.3; 95\%CI, 1.2-1.5). After adjusting for SDB and other known confounders, nocturia was independently associated with prevalent hypertension (OR 1.23; 95\%CI 1.08-1.40; P = 0.002), cardiovascular disease (OR 1.26; 95\%CI 1.05-1.52; P = 0.02) and stroke (OR 1.62; 95\%CI 1.14-2.30; P = 0.007). Moreover, nocturia was also associated with adverse objective alterations of sleep as measured by polysomnography and self-reported excessive daytime sleepiness (P{\ensuremath{<}}0.05). Conclusions/Significance: Nocturia is independently associated with sleep-disordered breathing. After adjusting for SDB, there remained an association between nocturia and cardiovascular morbidity. Such results support screening for SDB in patients with nocturia, but the mechanisms underlying the relationship between nocturia and cardiovascular morbidity requires further study. MeSH terms: Nocturia, sleep-disordered breathing, obstructive sleep apnea, sleep apnea, polysomnography, hypertension.} } @article{pittir14172, volume = {8}, number = {4}, month = {April}, title = {Neutralization serotyping of BK polyomavirus infection in kidney transplant recipients}, author = {DV Pastrana and DC Brennan and N {\cC}uburu and GA Storch and RP Viscidi and PS Randhawa and CB Buck}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS Pathogens}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14172/}, abstract = {BK polyomavirus (BKV or BKPyV) associated nephropathy affects up to 10\% of kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). BKV isolates are categorized into four genotypes. It is currently unclear whether the four genotypes are also serotypes. To address this issue, we developed high-throughput serological assays based on antibody-mediated neutralization of BKV genotype I and IV reporter vectors (pseudoviruses). Neutralization-based testing of sera from mice immunized with BKV-I or BKV-IV virus-like particles (VLPs) or sera from naturally infected human subjects revealed that BKV-I specific serum antibodies are poorly neutralizing against BKV-IV and vice versa. The fact that BKV-I and BKV-IV are distinct serotypes was less evident in traditional VLP-based ELISAs. BKV-I and BKV-IV neutralization assays were used to examine BKV type-specific neutralizing antibody responses in KTRs at various time points after transplantation. At study entry, sera from 5\% and 49\% of KTRs showed no detectable neutralizing activity for BKV-I or BKV-IV neutralization, respectively. By one year after transplantation, all KTRs were neutralization seropositive for BKV-I, and 43\% of the initially BKV-IV seronegative subjects showed evidence of acute seroconversion for BKV-IV neutralization. The results suggest a model in which BKV-IV-specific seroconversion reflects a de novo BKV-IV infection in KTRs who initially lack protective antibody responses capable of neutralizing genotype IV BKVs. If this model is correct, it suggests that pre-vaccinating prospective KTRs with a multivalent VLP-based vaccine against all BKV serotypes, or administration of BKV-neutralizing antibodies, might offer protection against graft loss or dysfunction due to BKV associated nephropathy.} } @unpublished{pittir12618, month = {July}, title = {MICROTUBULE DYNAMICS IN OXIDATIVELY-STRESSED NEURONAL CELLS}, author = {Vivek P. Patel}, year = {2012}, keywords = {microtubule function, tubulin post-translational modification, reactive oxygen species, histone deacetylase, transcription factor trafficking}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12618/}, abstract = {The microtubule (MT) system is important for many aspects of neuronal function, including motility, differentiation, and organelle trafficking. The dysregulation of this system can therefore have a significant impact on neuronal function and survival. Parkinson?s disease (PD) is associated with alterations in integrity of the axon/dendrites as well as axonal transport, which is suggestive of altered MT function. In fact, recent studies using genetic and toxin models are beginning to implicate MT dysfunction as a key mechanism underlying neuronal degeneration in PD. To further study the role of MT dysfunction in PD neurodegeneration, the effects of oxidative stress, which plays a key role in PD pathogenesis, on MT function were examined using the commonly utilized PD toxin, 6-hydroxydopamine (6OHDA). In response to 6OHDA-induced oxidative stress in neuronal cells, significant alterations in MT function were observed with reductions in MT growth rate, increase in frequency of MT pauses/retractions, impaired end binding protein 1 (EB1) levels, and increase in levels of tubulin acetylation. Impaired function of tubulin deacetylases, specifically sirtuin 2 (SIRT2), was observed in oxidatively-stressed cells. Restoration of tubulin deacetylase function rescued MT function and the neuritic degeneration phenotype observed in response to 6OHDA, suggesting that oxidative stress impairs MT function by altering tubulin acetylation. In addition to its impact on the integrity of the neurite, oxidative disruption of MT function also affected MT-dependent nuclear transport, which could contribute to the selective declines in transcriptional responses of diseased dopaminergic neurons. In all, this study provides support for the role of MT dysfunction in the degenerative processes seen in PD. Elucidating how oxidative stress-induced changes in MT function can lead to neuronal degeneration will provide key insight into the development of novel therapeutic strategies.} } @inproceedings{pittir16521, volume = {7398 L}, month = {November}, title = {My privacy policy: Exploring end-user specification of free-form location access rules}, author = {S Patil and Y Le Gall and AJ Lee and A Kapadia}, year = {2012}, pages = {86 -- 97}, journal = {Lecture Notes in Computer Science (including subseries Lecture Notes in Artificial Intelligence and Lecture Notes in Bioinformatics)}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16521/}, abstract = {The increasing inclusion of location and other contextual information in social media applications requires users to be more aware of what their location disclosures reveal. As such, it is important to consider whether existing access-control mechanisms for managing location sharing meet the needs of today's users. We report on a questionnaire (N=103) in which respondents were asked to specify location access control rules using free-form everyday language. Respondents also rated and ranked the importance of a variety of contextual factors that could influence their decisions for allowing or disallowing access to their location. Our findings validate some prior results (e.g., the recipient was the most highly rated and ranked factor and appeared most often in free-form rules) while challenging others (e.g., time-based constraints were deemed relatively less important, despite being features of multiple location-sharing services). We also identified several themes in the free-form rules (e.g., special rules for emergency situations). Our findings can inform the design of tools to empower end users to articulate and capture their access-control preferences more effectively. {\copyright} 2012 Springer-Verlag.} } @article{pittir16457, month = {August}, title = {Reasons, rewards, regrets: Privacy considerations in location sharing as an interactive practice}, author = {S Patil and G Norcie and A Kapadia and AJ Lee}, year = {2012}, journal = {SOUPS 2012 - Proceedings of the 8th Symposium on Usable Privacy and Security}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16457/}, abstract = {Rapid growth in the usage of location-aware mobile phones has enabled mainstream adoption of location-sharing services (LSS). Integration with social-networking services (SNS) has further accelerated this trend. To uncover how these developments have shaped the evolution of LSS usage, we conducted an online study (N = 362) aimed at understanding the preferences and practices of LSS users in the US. We found that the main motivations for location sharing were to connect and coordinate with one's social and professional circles, to project an interesting image of oneself, and to receive rewards offered for 'checking in.' Respondents overwhelmingly preferred sharing location only upon explicit action. More than a quarter of the respondents recalled at least one instance of regret over revealing their location. Our findings suggest that privacy considerations in LSS are affected due to integration within SNS platforms and by transformation of location sharing into an interactive practice that is no longer limited only to finding people based on their whereabouts. We offer design suggestions, such as delayed disclosure and conflict detection, to enhance privacy-management capabilities of LSS. Copyright is held by the author/owner.} } @unpublished{pittir10936, month = {January}, title = {HIV/AIDS in the Slums of Kenya: Intervening Through Effectively Utilizing Volunteers}, author = {Hannah L Patterson}, year = {2012}, keywords = {HIV/AIDS, volunteer, Kenya, Kibera, slum}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10936/}, abstract = {HIV/AIDS affects millions of people globally and has significantly impacted public health for decades. In Kenya, the effects of HIV/AIDS are widespread, but slum areas have an adult HIV prevalence rate twice as high as the national rate. Slums are characterized by scarce resources, making HIV prevention efforts extremely challenging. Many believe that the voluntary sector is best suited for the role of spearheading efforts to address HIV/AIDS through prevention programs. International volunteerism is growing in popularity, but the various projects that volunteers work on are sustainable and impactful only if the volunteers are properly trained. To examine this process, the author travelled to Kenya to work with Fadhili Community, a local NGO involved in HIV/AIDS prevention programs within Kibera and other slums. The objectives of this research study were to assess current volunteer HIV/AIDS programs, determine gaps in knowledge and skills among volunteers, and develop an HIV/AIDS training manual for incoming volunteers. The author, utilizing participant observation, visited eight volunteer HIV/AIDS programs in different regions of Kenya to assess them for organizational capacity to utilize volunteers. The author discovered widespread assumptions prevalent among HIV programs and international volunteers that prevented effective utilization of volunteers. To address the gaps in knowledge common among volunteers and to address the expectations of HIV programs, the author created and introduced a HIV/AIDS manual to Fadhili Community volunteers. Educating and training international volunteers in a concise yet effective way will positively impact HIV/AIDS programs in Kibera. } } @unpublished{pittir11771, month = {June}, title = {Association Between Poor Sleep, Fatigure, and Safety Outcomes in Emergency Medical Services Providers}, author = {Paul Patterson}, year = {2012}, keywords = {sleep, fatigue, safety, EMS}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11771/}, abstract = {Objective: To determine the association between poor sleep quality, fatigue, and self-reported safety outcomes among Emergency Medical Services (EMS) workers. Methods: We used convenience sampling of EMS agencies and a cross-sectional survey design. We administered the 19-item Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), 11-item Chalder Fatigue Questionnaire (CFQ), and 44-item EMS Safety Inventory (EMS-SI) to measure sleep quality, fatigue, and safety outcomes, respectively. We used a consensus process to develop the EMS-SI, which was designed to capture three composite measurements of EMS worker injury, medical errors and adverse events (AE), and safety-compromising behaviors. We used hierarchical logistic regression to test the association between poor sleep quality, fatigue, and three composite measures of EMS worker safety outcomes. Results: We received 547 surveys from 30 EMS agencies (a 35.6\% mean agency response rate). The mean PSQI score exceeded the benchmark for poor sleep (6.9, 95\%CI 5.5, 7.2). Greater than half of respondents were classified as fatigued (55\%, 95\%CI 50.7, 59.3). Seventeen percent of respondents reported an injury (17.8\%, 95\%CI 13.5, 22.1), forty-one percent a medical error or AE (41.1\%, 95\%CI 36.8, 45.4), and 89\% (95\%CI 87, 92) safety compromising behaviors. After controlling for confounding, we identified 1.9 greater odds of injury, 2.2 greater odds of medical error or AE, and 3.7 greater odds of safety compromising behavior among fatigued respondents versus non-fatigued respondents. Conclusions: In this sample of EMS workers, poor sleep quality and fatigue is common. We provide preliminary evidence of an association between sleep quality, fatigue, and safety outcomes. Public Health Significance: Some level of EMS care covers every community in the U.S. Every minute of every day EMS workers transport 35 patients to hospital Emergency Departments (EDs). The health and safety of EMS workers may impact health and safety of the public ? thereby making fatigue and sleep of EMS workers an issue of public health significance. } } @unpublished{pittir13635, month = {August}, title = {The role of culturally relevant texts and comprehension strategy instruction in the literacy engagement of African American adolescent males}, author = {Russell Patterson}, year = {2012}, keywords = {adolescents comprehension strategy culturally relevant texts African American males literacy engagement}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13635/}, abstract = {Within the African American community, African American males, arguably, experience a great deal of difficulty in the current educational system (Biggs, 1992; Kleinfeld, 1998a, 1998b; Kunjufu, 2005; Tatum, 2003; Wynn, 1992; Wynn, 2005). This study seeks to examine the role of culturally relevant texts and comprehension strategy instruction in the literacy engagement of African American adolescent males. Following Garth-McCullough?s (2002) findings that highlight the positive correlation between African American students? background knowledge and the comprehension of culturally relevant texts, this study modified Garth-McCullough?s (2002) design and explored nine, 9th grade private, boarding school African American male students? reading comprehension and engagement with culturally relevant texts. The participants were divided into three groups. The control group received no comprehension strategy instruction. Group two received instruction on answering extended response questions and group three received instruction on how to complete a double-entry journal. All three groups read six texts, three texts were narrative and the other three were expository. Two of the texts were about European Americans, two about Mexican Americans, and the other two were about African Americans. For the purposes of this study, the texts that focused on African Americans were considered culturally relevant texts. Literacy engagement, with text, was defined, following Guthrie (1996) as the level of cognitive involvement invested to the reading process. Due to the complexity of literacy engagement, the data was collected five ways; The Silent Reading Behaviors Checklist (Kelley \& Clausen-Grace, 2007; 2009), a modified version of the Performance Assessment of Engaged Reading (Guthrie, et al, 1996), a reading comprehension instrument, a post survey, and an interview. The findings suggest that the participants were the most engaged with a culturally relevant text. The findings also suggest that the participants that received comprehension strategy instruction were more engaged than those participants that did not. The participants that were the most engaged were those that received instruction on completing a double entry journal. } } @unpublished{pittir11985, month = {June}, title = {'Ethernichel'{--}Swimming Against the Flow: Understanding the Unique Needs and Concerns of Widowed and Abandoned Women in Chennai, India}, author = {Sharon/ T. Paul}, year = {2012}, keywords = {India, HIV/AIDS, Women, Care \& Support}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11985/}, abstract = {Background:The social contexts and roles of women in India, in conjunction with the plight of widows and abandoned women and the stigma and discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS fosters a difficult lived reality for a growing segment of the population. Care and support measures for those infected with HIV are losing priority but are of public health relevance and importance. Therefore, this study aims to understand the perception of quality of life in combination with needs and concerns of HIV positive women in South India. Qualitative research methods were utilized in order to achieve these aims and provide insight to propose recommendations to affect future public health practice. Methods: Working closely with World Vision India?s GRACE Program, an evaluation was completed, and the results were subsequently analyzed for this study. Focus group discussions, participant and non-participant observations along with reflection journals were conducted, recorded and analyzed for emerging themes. Results: The theoretical frameworks utilized resulted in a conceptual model that combines the constructs of two different theories with the unique identity of participants identified as the triple burden. The triple burden consists of being HIV positive, being a woman and being the new head of household. Needs and concerns related to improving quality of life were identified surrounding the particularly the need for housing and financial security, with explicit desire for government housing and specialized livelihood training expressed by participants. Conclusion: Care and support is an important component of combating the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Widowed and abandoned women in South India are a forgotten population and it is imperative to improve their quality of life in a multi-pronged manner by tailoring microfinance and livelihood training, endorsing the passage of the HIV/AIDS Bill, and continuing promotion and advocacy of education and awareness around HIV/AIDS and the rights of women and widows.} } @article{pittir13202, volume = {7}, number = {3}, month = {March}, title = {Mycobacteriophage endolysins: Diverse and modular enzymes with multiple catalytic activities}, author = {KM Payne and GF Hatfull}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13202/}, abstract = {The mycobacterial cell wall presents significant challenges to mycobacteriophages - viruses that infect mycobacterial hosts - because of its unusual structure containing a mycolic acid-rich mycobacterial outer membrane attached to an arabinogalactan layer that is in turn linked to the peptidoglycan. Although little is known about how mycobacteriophages circumvent these barriers during the process of infection, destroying it for lysis at the end of their lytic cycles requires an unusual set of functions. These include Lysin B proteins that cleave the linkage of mycolic acids to the arabinogalactan layer, chaperones required for endolysin delivery to peptidoglycan, holins that regulate lysis timing, and the endolysins (Lysin As) that hydrolyze peptidoglycan. Because mycobacterial peptidoglycan contains atypical features including 3{$\rightarrow$}3 interpeptide linkages, it is not surprising that the mycobacteriophage endolysins also have non-canonical features. We present here a bioinformatic dissection of these lysins and show that they are highly diverse and extensively modular, with an impressive number of domain organizations. Most contain three domains with a novel N-terminal predicted peptidase, a centrally located amidase, muramidase, or transglycosylase, and a C-terminal putative cell wall binding domain. {\copyright} 2012 Payne, Hatfull.} } @unpublished{pittir11890, month = {July}, title = {Understanding The Beliefs of Ashkenazi Jewish Individuals Regarding Cancer Genetic Counseling Services}, author = {Rachel S. Pearlman}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer, HBOC, BRCA genes, Ashkenazi Jewish population}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11890/}, abstract = {Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome (HBOC) is caused by BRCA1/2 gene mutations. BRCA1/2 mutations are observed in 1 in 800 in the non-Ashkenazi Jewish population, while an individual of Ashkenazi Jewish (AJ) ancestry has an a priori risk of 1 in 40. This pilot study was designed to document common beliefs about cancer genetics services (CGS) and to identify the preferred methods of communication regarding cancer risks and inherited cancer predispositions to the AJ population. Participants were recruited on a voluntary basis from the Jewish community of Pittsburgh, PA to participate in an informal information session about cancer genetics at a local synagogue. Sixteen participants completed surveys with questions pertaining to basic genetics knowledge and beliefs regarding inherited cancer risks, genetic counseling and genetic testing for HBOC before and after the information session, thus allowing researchers to identify changes in genetic knowledge, as well as differences in perceptions about cancer genetics and CGS. Findings revealed that the main motivation to pursue CGS is if an individual perceives they are at a high-risk status to develop cancer based on personal or family history of cancer. The data shows that AJ individuals are aware of cancer genetics and risks associated with their ancestry, but do not pursue or participate in CGS due to a perception of lacking knowledge about general cancer genetics. Although 56.25\% of respondents reported that their health care providers are not aware of their AJ ancestry, 75\% reported that they preferred to learn of cancer genetics information and CGS through a healthcare provider or physician. Between the pre- and post-information session surveys, analysis of the knowledge-based questions showed that the average correct response rate for every question increased (77\% to 94\%). The results of this study have important public health implications because they encourage the idea that a future preferred service delivery model for AJ population-specific genetic counseling may include informal community-based cancer genetics information sessions prior to traditional genetic counseling, thus allowing traditional counseling to focus on personalized risk assessment, benefits and limitations of testing, and potential psychosocial issues that are unique to each individual or family. } } @unpublished{pittir10479, month = {February}, title = {Logic and Intelligibility}, author = {James Pearson}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Gottlob Frege; Donald Davidson; Philosophy of Mind and Language; W. V. Quine; Disagreement; Objectivity of Knowledge}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10479/}, abstract = {All inquirers must have a grasp of implication and contradiction which they employ to structure their investigations. Logical ability is thus some kind of prerequisite for cognition. My dissertation scrutinizes this relationship and argues that different ways of understanding it underlie a deep debate about naturalism and the objectivity of our knowledge. Frege?s dismissal of logical aliens as mad exposes his conviction that logical ability is exhibited in our practice of demonstrative reasoning, and is a constitutive necessary condition for cognition. By denying the existence of an independent standard for objective truth that a codification of inferential principles must meet, Frege avoids logical ?sociologism? (under which the validity of inferential principles is identified with their agreement with our practice). Quine objects to ascribing a ?pre-logical mentality? in radical translation, but only because doing so would represent one?s interlocutor as affirming something one finds obviously false. Under his naturalism, the logician is guided by usefulness to ongoing empirical inquiry, not the search for the constitutive prerequisites of thinking. I argue that the properly-understood naturalist excises various skeptical attacks from epistemology. Davidson recovers a privileged status for logic as central in the theories of truth that are necessary to interpret another as{--}and also to be{--}a cognizer. Under his humanism, it is only through interpreting others that one can grasp the objective/subjective contrast and acquire beliefs that are properly about the world. We do not exhibit our grasp of objective truth by engaging in a practice informed by logic, but by interpreting others who are engaged with, and through, us in such a practice. Despite initial appearances, naturalism and humanism are not incompatible positions. After examining Quine?s ?sectarian? and Davidson?s ?ecumenical? attitude to the truth of empirically equivalent theories, I endorse ecumenism about their metaphilosophical disagreement. By renouncing a proprietary attitude to truth, this particular form of tolerance avoids the fragmentation of philosophy into distinct, yet totalizing, and hence warring, programs. } } @inproceedings{pittir12519, volume = {7524 L}, number = {PART 2}, month = {October}, author = {K Pelechrinis and P Krishnamurthy}, title = {Location affiliation networks: Bonding social and spatial information}, journal = {Lecture Notes in Computer Science (including subseries Lecture Notes in Artificial Intelligence and Lecture Notes in Bioinformatics)}, pages = {531 -- 547}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12519/}, abstract = {Location-based social networks (LBSNs) have recently attracted a lot of attention due to the number of novel services they can offer. Prior work on analysis of LBSNs has mainly focused on the social part of these systems. Even though it is important to know how different the structure of the social graph of an LBSN is as compared to the friendship-based social networks (SNs), it raises the interesting question of what kinds of linkages exist between locations and friendships. The main problem we are investigating is to identify such connections between the social and the spatial planes of an LBSN. In particular, in this paper we focus on answering the following general question "What are the bonds between the social and spatial information in an LBSN and what are the metrics that can reveal them?" In order to tackle this problem, we employ the idea of affiliation networks. Analyzing a dataset from a specific LBSN (Gowalla), we make two main interesting observations; (i) the social network exhibits signs of homophily with regards to the "places/venues" visited by the users, and (ii) the "nature" of the visited venues that are common to users is powerful and informative in revealing the social/spatial linkages. We further show that the "entropy" (or diversity) of a venue can be used to better connect spatial information with the existing social relations. The entropy records the diversity of a venue and requires only location history of users (it does not need temporal history). Finally, we provide a simple application of our findings for predicting existing friendship relations based on users' historic spatial information. We show that even with simple unsupervised learning models we can achieve significant improvement in prediction when we consider features that capture the "nature" of the venue as compared to the case where only apparent properties of the location history are used (e.g., number of common visits). {\copyright} 2012 Springer-Verlag.} } @article{pittir18809, volume = {FS-12-}, month = {December}, title = {Location-based social network users through a lense: Examining temporal user patterns}, author = {K Pelechrinis and P Krishnamurthy}, year = {2012}, pages = {61 -- 68}, journal = {AAAI Fall Symposium - Technical Report}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18809/}, abstract = {There has been a rapid proliferation of location-based social networks (LBSNs) during the last years. The spatial component of these systems provides a rich source of information that can be exploited by a number of novel services. However, to better design such services, it is important to understand the way people make use of these platforms and how this usage changes over time. While there exist studies that examine the motivations of people for adopting the usage of LBSNs and the temporal dynamics of these motivations, they are based on interviews and are mostly qualitative. Motivations can further only indirectly reveal or help us infer user behavior. In this paper, we analyze data from two commercial LBSNs to examine the temporal evolution of usage patterns to see what the data on their own reveal. We find that users of two social networks that we examined increase their level of activity as they use the system. However, depending on the main purpose of the underlying LBSN, users may exhibit different behaviors over time. We believe that our findings can open new directions and stimulate further research on areas such as location prediction and its applications (e.g., urban and transportation planning and location-based advertisment). Copyright {\copyright} 2012, Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence (www.aaai.org). All rights reserved.} } @incollection{pittir18808, month = {December}, title = {Towards a trustworthy PF scheduler for cellular data networks}, author = {K Pelechrinis and P Krishnamurthy and C Gkantsidis}, year = {2012}, pages = {1010 -- 1016}, journal = {GLOBECOM - IEEE Global Telecommunications Conference}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18808/}, abstract = {Cellular data networks are proliferating to address the need for ubiquitous connectivity. To cope with the increasing number of subscribers and with the spatio-temporal variations of the wireless signals, current cellular networks use opportunistic schedulers, such as the Proportional Fairness scheduler (PF), to maximize network throughput while maintaining fairness among users. Such scheduling decisions are based on channel quality metrics and Automatic Repeat reQuest (ARQ) feedback reports provided by the User's Equipment (UE). Implicit in current networks is the a priori trust on every UE's feedback. Malicious UEs can thus exploit this trust to disrupt service by intelligently faking their reports. This work proposes a trustworthy version of the PF scheduler (called TPF) to mitigate the effects of such Denial-of-Service (DoS) attacks. In brief, based on the channel quality reported by the UE, we assign a probability to possible ARQ feedbacks. We then use the probability associated with the actual ARQ report to assess the UE's trustworthiness. We adapt the scheduling mechanism to give higher priority to more trusted users. Our evaluations show that TPF (i) does not induce any performance degradation under benign settings, and (ii) it completely mitigates the effects of the activity of malicious UEs. {\copyright} 2012 IEEE.} } @article{pittir12366, volume = {11}, number = {7}, month = {July}, author = {K Pelechrinis and G Yan and S Eidenbenz and SV Krishnamurthy}, title = {Detection of selfish manipulation of carrier sensing in 802.11 networks}, journal = {IEEE Transactions on Mobile Computing}, pages = {1086 -- 1101}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12366/}, abstract = {Recently, tuning the clear channel assessment (CCA) threshold in conjunction with power control has been considered for improving the performance of WLANs. However, we show that, CCA tuning can be exploited by selfish nodes to obtain an unfair share of the available bandwidth. Specifically, a selfish entity can manipulate the CCA threshold to ignore ongoing transmissions; this increases the probability of accessing the medium and provides the entity a higher, unfair share of the bandwidth. We experiment on our 802.11 testbed to characterize the effects of CCA tuning on both isolated links and in 802.11 WLAN configurations. We focus on AP-client(s) configurations, proposing a novel approach to detect this misbehavior. A misbehaving client is unlikely to recognize low power receptions as legitimate packets; by intelligently sending low power probe messages, an AP can efficiently detect a misbehaving node. Our key contributions are: 1) We are the first to quantify the impact of selfish CCA tuning via extensive experimentation on various 802.11 configurations. 2) We propose a lightweight scheme for detecting selfish nodes that inappropriately increase their CCAs. 3) We extensively evaluate our system on our testbed; its accuracy is 95 percent while the false positive rate is less than 5 percent. {\copyright} 2012 IEEE.} } @article{pittir18805, volume = {1}, number = {9}, month = {November}, title = {Uncovering the Jammers: Learn How They Operate and What to do to Beat Them}, author = {Konstantinos Pelechrinis}, year = {2012}, journal = {PenTest}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18805/} } @article{pittir29942, volume = {12}, month = {March}, title = {HIV-1 Nef interaction influences the ATP-binding site of the Src-family kinase, Hck}, author = {T Pene-Dumitrescu and ST Shu and TE Wales and JJ Alvarado and H Shi and P Narute and JA Moroco and JI Yeh and JR Engen and TE Smithgall}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Chemical Biology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29942/}, abstract = {Background: Nef is an HIV-1 accessory protein essential for viral replication and AIDS progression. Nef interacts with a multitude of host cell signaling partners, including members of the Src kinase family. Nef preferentially activates Hck, a Src-family kinase (SFK) strongly expressed in macrophages and other HIV target cells, by binding to its regulatory SH3 domain. Recently, we identified a series of kinase inhibitors that preferentially inhibit Hck in the presence of Nef. These compounds also block Nef-dependent HIV replication, validating the Nef-SFK signaling pathway as an antiretroviral drug target. Our findings also suggested that by binding to the Hck SH3 domain, Nef indirectly affects the conformation of the kinase active site to favor inhibitor association. Results: To test this hypothesis, we engineered a "gatekeeper" mutant of Hck with enhanced sensitivity to the pyrazolopyrimidine tyrosine kinase inhibitor, NaPP1. We also modified the RT loop of the Hck SH3 domain to enhance interaction of the kinase with Nef. This modification stabilized Nef:Hck interaction in solution-based kinase assays, as a way to mimic the more stable association that likely occurs at cellular membranes. Introduction of the modified RT loop rendered Hck remarkably more sensitive to activation by Nef, and led to a significant decrease in the K mssssfor ATP as well as enhanced inhibitor potency. Conclusions: These observations suggest that stable interaction with Nef may induce Src-family kinase active site conformations amenable to selective inhibitor targeting. {\copyright} 2012 Pene-Dumitrescu et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir12528, month = {September}, title = {Microfluidic Drop Formation with Polymer Plastics}, author = {Shu-Che Peng}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Microfluidic,Polymer,Capillary Number, surface tension}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12528/}, abstract = {The aim of this study is to develop a microfluidic platform for making particles from molten polymers. This thesis describes the process of formation of droplets and bubbles in microfluidic flow-focusing geometries. High viscosity and low interfacial tension of molten polymers makes it difficult to break a continuous fluid stream into drops. Furthermore, the eventual requirements that the polymers can only flow when heated far above room temperature require a new approach to fluid handling. This thesis describes the development of a platform for molten polymer microfluidics based on a pressure-driven flow of polymer into micro-channels etched out of metal foils. This platform is developed for room temperature operation to test whether undiluted polymer melts can be emulsified in a controlled fashion in a microfluidic device. We report the results of a comparative study of microfluidic emulsification (i.e. drop or bubble formation) with different viscosities polymer liquids. At room temperature, depending on the properties of the polymer fluids and the flow rate, emulsification occurred in the dripping and jetting regions. We developed a simple circuit model to describe the observed dependence of the size of bubbles on the supplied pressure. The bubble shape, size, velocity, frequency were well investigated under various experimental conditions. This study demonstrates the possibility of polymer drop formation in the room temperature device that can be used to further research using polymers need high temperature to be melted. } } @unpublished{pittir12412, month = {September}, title = {A Systematic Consideration of the Human and Technical Elements in the Implementation of Lean Manufacturing Cells}, author = {Rona Pepmeier}, year = {2012}, keywords = {lean, cellular manufacturing, human element}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12412/}, abstract = {Some manufacturing companies are successful, while many others fail in their efforts to implement lean philosophies and practices into their manufacturing operations. Although the technical process flows and cell designs meet the standards and criteria specified in the literature, these companies most often do not fully consider the impact of the human element in the management of change. It is hypothesized that an approach that combines the implementation of lean manufacturing cells with technical, human and lean practices considerations will result in improved cell performance. This research investigates how to create and implement such a system and evaluate its impact on a manufacturer?s cell performance. A questionnaire is developed, based on literature and industry research, to collect employee perceptions regarding the importance rating and implementation levels of the technical, human and lean practices within a manufacturing cell. Manufacturing cell performance data is collected and analyzed in concert with the questionnaire to prove the hypothesis. The approach is piloted at an aero engine manufacturer and the results are provided. The findings indicate that as a foundation, manufacturing cells must achieve a certain level of implementation in the technical areas of machines, methods, and materials. With all else equal, manufacturing cells that achieve higher implementation levels of the human and lean practices, also achieve higher cell performance. } } @unpublished{pittir12133, month = {September}, title = {Dynamic Functional Connectivity Between Cortex and Muscles}, author = {Sagi Perel}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Motor Cortex, M1, Functional Connectivity, Reach to Grasp, Post Spike Effects, EMG, Spike Triggered Averaging, Single Snippet Analysis, Scan Test}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12133/}, abstract = {The motor-cortex is recognized as the origin of the major direct path from cortex to muscles. Although it has been studied for over a century, relatively little is known about how the motor cortex facilitates reach-to-grasp movements. We collected a rich dataset from monkeys trained to reach and grasp objects of different shapes, presented at various orientations and spatial locations. We simultaneously recorded single-unit activity from motor cortical areas (mainly the caudal bank of the pre-central gyrus), EMG activity from selected muscles (in the arm, wrist and hand) and high-resolution kinematic data from the wrist and hand. We show that motor-cortical neurons modulate their activity in an object specific manner, resulting in object specific co-activation of muscles and joint movements. We studied the multivariate relationships between the firing rates of individual neurons, EMG, joint angles and joint angle velocities and found that both EMG and kinematic features were encoded in the neural firing rates. Kinematic features were much better predictors of neural firing rates than EMG. We found that the best predictors of neural firing rates were neither individual muscles or joints, nor kinematic or EMG synergies extracted using PCA/ICA, but neuron-specific combinations of EMG and kinematic features. We show better predictions of both muscle activations and JA values by combining the activity of a few tens of sequentially recorded neurons; suggesting that neural activity contains synergistic information related to EMG, not independently present in individual neurons. By using functional connectivity, defined as the probability of observing changes in EMG following spikes from a trigger neuron, we further elucidated motor cortical activity to muscle activation. By studying both the short-time scale functional connectivity, on the order of milliseconds; and long-time scale functional connectivity, on the order of hundreds of milliseconds, we found that flexible long-time scale functional connections between individual neurons and muscles were modulated by kinematic features that could account for the relatively weaker neural firing rate relation to EMG. To support our findings, we show examples of simultaneous short-time scale functional connectivity and conclude that neuronal-muscular functional connectivity is flexible and task-dependent.} } @unpublished{pittir10734, month = {February}, title = {Sacred Image, Civic Spectacle, and Ritual Space: Tivoli's Inchinata Procession and Icons in Urban Liturgical Theater in Late Medieval Italy}, author = {Rebekah Perry}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Tivoli, Lazio, Inchinata, Trittico del Salvatore, liturgical procession, religious drama, icon, feast of the Assumption, Madonna Avvocata}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10734/}, abstract = {This dissertation examines the socio-politics of urban performance and ceremonial imagery in the nascent independent communes of late medieval Lazio. It explores the complex manner in which these central Italian cities both emulated and rejected the political and cultural hegemony of Rome through the ideological and performative reinvention of its cult icons. In the twelfth century the powerful urban center of Tivoli adopted Rome?s grandest annual public event, the nocturnal Assumption procession of August 14-15, and transformed it into a potent civic expression that incorporated all sectors of the social fabric. Tivoli?s cult of the Trittico del Salvatore and the Inchinata procession in which the icon of the enthroned Christ was carried at the feast of the Assumption and made to perform in symbolic liturgical ceremonies were both modeled on Roman, papal exemplars. The Tiburtine procession, however, became a ritual communal act and its Savior icon an apotropaic palladium that protected the city from spiritual and material dangers. Rather than a mere imitation of Roman practices, the Inchinata was a unique, site-specific rite that preserved communal memory and constructed new religious and social narratives. The sacred geography of the procession drew all of the city?s most strategic religious, defensive, and historical monuments into a self-referential spatial and ritual matrix that sacralized the city?s defensive structures, invoked its protector saints, and celebrated its sacred history and local mythology. Through this ritual, Tivoli, a perennial military rival of Rome, ?branded? itself as a formidable political and cultural rival as well. I contextualize this tradition by examining a spectrum of analogous cases in Lazio where other late medieval processional ?copies? of Rome?s Acheropita icon were in reality powerful local symbols of communal identity and indices of an evolving civic self-awareness. My treatment of this phenomenon addresses fundamental underlying questions about the origins of religious drama and the evolution of urban culture in a transformative period for the Italian city, a period characterized by fierce political ambition, rapid secularization, and artistic innovation.} } @unpublished{pittir12266, month = {October}, title = {Synthetic Studies on Cycloclavine, Cyclopiazonic Acid, and Other Biologically Active Indole-Containing Compounds}, author = {Filip Petronijevic}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Indole, Cycloclavine, IMDAF, Cyclopiazonic Acid}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12266/}, abstract = {The first section of this dissertation describes the synthesis of five indole-containing compounds used in the BoNT LC (botulinum neurotoxin light chain) SAR analysis. Our approach employs a Pd(II)-catalyzed cyclization for the formation of indole rings, which are subsequently converted to the corresponding amidines or imidazolines. The second section describes the extension of the indole synthesis methodology through a microwave assisted IMDAF (intramolecular Diels-Alder furan) reaction. This protocol allows for a convergent and rapid preparation of 4-mono- and 3,4-disubstituted indoles. This cascade process is quite tolerant of functional groups and associated substitution patterns. The third part we describes novel routes to the naturally occurring indole alkaloid cycloclavine and its unnatural C(5)-epimer. Key features include the rapid construction of the heterocyclic core segments by two Diels-Alder reactions. An indole annulation was accomplished by a late-stage IMDAF reaction, while the cyclopropa[c]indoline core of cycloclavine was derived through a stereoselective intramolecular [4+2] cycloaddition of a methylenecyclopropane. The forth section describes an approach towards the total synthesis of cyclopiazonic acid. A promising route to this alkaloid was established, including a rapid construction of the tricyclic indole-containing core and a stereoselective pyrrolidinone ring formation. } } @inproceedings{pittir16192, month = {June}, title = {Thread assignment optimization with real-time performance and memory bandwidth guarantees for energy-efficient heterogeneous multi-core systems}, author = {V Petrucci and O Loques and D Moss{\'e} and R Melhem and NA Gazala and S Gobriel}, year = {2012}, pages = {263 -- 272}, journal = {Real-Time Technology and Applications - Proceedings}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16192/}, abstract = {The current trend to move from homogeneous to heterogeneous multi-core systems promises further performance and energy-efficiency benefits. A typical future heterogeneous multi-core system includes two distinct types of cores, such as high performance sophisticated ("large") cores and simple low-power ("small") cores. In those heterogeneous platforms, execution phases of application threads that are CPU-intensive can take best advantage of large cores, whereas I/O or memory intensive execution phases are best suited and assigned to small cores. However, it is crucial that the assignment of threads to cores satisfy both the computational and memory bandwidth constraints of the threads. We propose an optimization approach to determine and apply the most energy efficient assignment of threads with soft real-time performance and memory bandwidth constraints in a multi-core system. Our approach includes an ILP (Integer Linear Programming) optimization model and a scheme to dynamically change thread-to-core assignment, since thread execution phases may change over time. In comparison to state-of-art dynamic thread assignment schemes, we show energy savings and performance gains for a variety of workloads, while respecting thread performance and memory bandwidth requirements. {\copyright} 2012 IEEE.} } @article{pittir18080, volume = {39}, number = {3}, month = {October}, author = {MT Pham and L Lee and AT Stephen}, title = {Feeling the future: The emotional oracle effect}, journal = {Journal of Consumer Research}, pages = {461 -- 477}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18080/}, abstract = {Eight studies reveal an intriguing phenomenon: individuals who have higher trust in their feelings can predict the outcomes of future events better than individuals with lower trust in their feelings. This emotional oracle effect was found across a variety of prediction domains, including (a) the 2008 US Democratic presidential nomination, (b) movie box-office success, (c) the winner of American Idol, (d) the stock market, (e) college football, and even (f) the weather. It is mostly high trust in feelings that improves prediction accuracy rather than low trust in feelings that impairs it. However, the effect occurs only among individuals who possess sufficient background knowledge about the prediction domain, and it dissipates when the prediction criterion becomes inherently unpredictable. The authors hypothesize that the effect arises because trusting one's feelings encourages access to a "privileged window" into the vast amount of predictive information that people learn, often unconsciously, about their environments. {\copyright} 2012 by JOURNAL OF CONSUMER RESEARCH, Inc.} } @unpublished{pittir16870, month = {December}, title = {GDNF Signaling Regulates YBX1/mRNA Interactions in Mouse Spermatogonia}, author = {Bart Phillips}, year = {2012}, keywords = {RNA Regulation, RNA Binding Proteins, Spermatogonial Stem Cell, Testis, YBX1, GDNF}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16870/}, abstract = {Spermatogenesis is a highly coordinated and productive process that maintains continuous sperm production in post-pubertal males. Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are the basis of spermatogenesis and balance self-renewal with differentiation to maintain the stem cell pool while producing differentiating progenitors that give rise, through several transit-amplifying mitotic divisions, two meiotic divisions and morphological differentiation to sperm. The molecular mechanisms driving these fate decisions are poorly understood, though numerous RNA regulatory pathways are thought to be critical. We used microarray analysis of distinct testis models to identify genes whose expression correlates with SSC activity. Fourteen RNA binding proteins were identified, and their testis expression was validated using RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry. The multi-functional RNA regulator YBX1 was expressed only by cells located on the basement membrane of seminiferous tubules, consistent with the location of SSCs. YBX1 was of special interest because of its heretofore unexplored role in the testis, as well as its possible phosphorylation by AKT. The AKT signaling pathway is activated in mouse SSCs by GDNF, a factor essential for SSC survival and self-renewal. We hypothesized that YBX1 was phosphorylated by AKT signaling downstream of GDNF, and that this phosphorylation would affect YBX1 interaction with target messenger RNAs (mRNAs). We show that YBX1 is phosphorylated in spermatogonia, and that GDNF signaling modulates YBX1 phosphorylation. Inhibiting either PI3K or AKT in SSC cultures also causes a loss of YBX1 phosphorylation, suggesting that GDNF works through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway to phosphorylate YBX1. To identify mRNA targets of YBX1, we immunoprecipitated YBX1 from SSC cultures grown in the presence or absence of GDNF, and isolated co-immunoprecipitated mRNAs. In normal growth conditions (containing GDNF), YBX1 associated with mRNA for genes expressed by all germ cells (Dazl and Ddx4), but not those expressed specifically by more undifferentiated germ cells (GFR{\ensuremath{\alpha}}1, Ngn3 and Plzf). Furthermore, association of YBX1 with a specific mRNA correlates with an increase in protein levels for that gene. These data collectively lead us to conclude that YBX1 mediates GDNF-dependent translational regulation of specific transcripts that may be important for coordinating SSC maintenance, renewal and/or differentiation. } } @unpublished{pittir11276, month = {July}, title = {How Terrorist Organizations Survive: Cooperation and Competition in Terrorist Group Networks}, author = {Brian J. Phillips}, year = {2012}, keywords = {terrorism, terrorist groups, survival analysis, hazard analysis, international relations, international security}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11276/}, abstract = {Why do some terrorist groups last much longer than others? This dissertation is among a small but growing number of studies to apply social networks analysis to the study of terrorism, and addresses an outcome of interest that is important but under analyzed. Terrorist group survival is puzzling because it is not explained by the conditions that encourage terrorism generally. Much of the literature has focused on terrorist attacks as an outcome of interest, ignoring the group context in which most incidents occur. Organizational and social network research suggests that group dynamics have important effects on outcomes, but connections between these studies and terrorism are underdeveloped. The dissertation presents an organizational-network model of terrorist group survival. Organizational aspects are the base of the model, but network attributes are a greater innovation, as this research offers the first explanation of terrorist group longevity to incorporate network attributes. The argument suggests the importance of direct ties between terrorist groups ? cooperative and adversarial. It also argues for a role of interorganizational relations more broadly, in terms of indirect competition and eigenvector centrality. Finally, I incorporate the state into the explanation, emphasizing how state attributes condition intergroup relations. Hypotheses are evaluated on a newly-extended global dataset of terrorist group networks 1987-2005. Case studies of terrorist groups in Colombia, Northern Ireland, and Pakistan illustrate how causal mechanisms often function as argued.} } @article{pittir17779, month = {August}, title = {Assessing the Impact of Social Support on Child Maltreatment Prevention among At-risk Mothers}, author = {Chereese Phillips and Hyun-a Song and Ilsung Nam}, year = {2012}, keywords = {child, maltreatment, social, support, mothers, substance, use, stress}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17779/}, abstract = {This paper was designed to examine the effect of social support on child maltreatment among at-risk mothers. We also explored whether the association between the social support and child maltreatment was affected by the mother?s substance abuse history. This cross-sectional study utilized secondary data from LONGSCAN. The study sample (n = 335) was comprised primarily of impoverished African American mothers. Logistic regression analysis results showed social support reduced the likelihood of child maltreatment for both mothers who had histories of substance use and those who did not. Implications of the findings are further discussed. Keywords: child maltreatment, social support, mothers, substance use, stress} } @unpublished{pittir10804, month = {February}, title = {SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS, AMYGDALA REACTIVITY, AND SELECTIVE ATTENTION TO THREAT}, author = {Jennifer Elaine Phillips}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Socioeconomic status, amygdala reactivity, attentional bias}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10804/}, abstract = {In this study, a pathway through which low socioeconomic status (SES) might heighten risk for disorders of mood and affect via a social information-processing bias is investigated. Here, we examined whether measures of social status covary with attentional bias toward threat and with greater threat-related amygdala reactivity in a sample of healthy community volunteers. Participants were middle-aged men and women (30 ? 55, M = 42.1 years; 41\% female, 87\% white) who participated in the second Adult Health and Behavior project (AHAB II). SES indices included objective (individuals? education and income, parental education) and subjective (individuals rated themselves and their parents on the MacArthur Scale of Subjective Social Status) indicators. Participants? attentional bias toward threat was assessed using a visual probe-detection task, utilizing angry, fearful, happy, and neutral facial expressions from the Karolinska Directed Emotional Faces stimulus set. Blood oxygenation level-dependent (BOLD) functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was employed to investigate amygdala reactivity, using facial stimuli derived from the MacArthur Network Face stimulus set. Correlational analyses failed to show any relationship between SES and attentional bias for any of the affective stimuli. Linear regression analyses accounting for age, race, and sex showed lower education ({\ensuremath{\beta}} = -.116, SE = .056, p = .041) and lower composite SES (fear {\ensuremath{>}} shapes: {\ensuremath{\beta}} = -.142, SE = .059, p = .018; fear {\ensuremath{>}} neutral: {\ensuremath{\beta}} = -.122, SE = .058, p = .037) associated with higher left amygdala reactivity to fearful facial stimuli. No significant relationships between SES and amygdala reactivity were detected for the remaining SES indicators, and findings were limited only to the left amygdala relationship with fearful faces. Thus, our prediction of an inverse association between indices of social standing and heightened responses to threatening stimuli was largely unsupported by the results. Future investigations should include participants representing a broader range of age, ethnicity, and socioeconomic standing in order to more accurately characterize individuals? responses to threat. Despite the shortcomings of the current study, these findings provide initial (albeit limited) evidence that heightened neurobiological responses to threat may be associated with lower SES.} } @unpublished{pittir13429, month = {September}, title = {The Origination and Alteration of a Novel Organ}, author = {Rachel M. Pileggi}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Biology, Evolution, Development, Fruit fly}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13429/}, abstract = {The living world is filled with limitless three-dimensional variation in size, shape, and the presence of novel structures that only appear in one or a few species. Although there are several examples of genetic alterations that cause the loss of morphological structures, the questions remain as to how novel structures form and how shape changes. Using the highly divergent Drosophila genitalia as a model of recent shape evolution, we can begin to uncover how relevant pathways that pattern and control growth are modified to create these diverse morphological forms. Specifically examining the posterior lobe, a recently evolved novelty of the melanogaster clade that is rapidly diverging in shape and required for male fertility, we are taking a candidate gene approach to investigate the origination and modification of this organ. After characterization of the development of this tissue, we have begun investigating the Pox neuro (Poxn) gene, a transcription factor that has been implicated in male genital development. Poxn is required for proper posterior lobe development and growth, which raises the question of how it obtained this role in a novel setting, and stimulates the hypothesis that Poxn contributes to posterior lobe shape variation. Investigations of Poxn, in combination with several other candidate genes (morphogens, signaling molecules, cell cycle control genes), will allow us to understand the flexible points in growth control pathways as well as how nascent genetic programs are established. This will ultimately lead to insights into how novel structures form and how shape evolves.} } @incollection{pittir16028, booktitle = {Applied Physiology in Intensive Care Medicine 2: Physiological Reviews and Editorials}, month = {January}, title = {Breathing as exercise: The cardiovascular response to weaning from mechanical variation}, author = {MR Pinsky}, year = {2012}, pages = {323 -- 325}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16028/}, abstract = {It is axiomatic that exercise increases oxygen (O2) demand if within the bounds of cardiovascular reserve, results in a proportional increase in whole body oxygen consumption (VO2). Exersice physiologists have long known that it does not really matter what form of exercise is performed, VO2 will increase in response to all forms of exercise, although the degree to which the incresed VO2 demand is met by increasing cardiac output and O2 extraction varies with conditioning and underlying diease[1]. Interestingly, the type of excercise also influecnes the efficiency and of the performance, defined as the ratio of external work performed to VO2.[2].} } @incollection{pittir16024, booktitle = {Applied Physiology in Intensive Care Medicine 1: Physiological Notes - Technical Notes - Seminal Studies in Intensive Care, Third Edition}, month = {January}, title = {Clinical significance of pulmonary artery occlusion pressure}, author = {MR Pinsky}, year = {2012}, pages = {87 -- 90}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16024/}, abstract = {Background: Ppao values are routinely used to assess pulmonary vascular status and LV performance. Regrettably, under many common clinically relevant conditions, even when Ppao values are measured accurately, Ppao values at baseline and in response to therapy often reflect an inaccurate measure of cardiovascular status. Results and conclusions: Thus, caution should be used when applying measures of Ppao in determining therapy if changes in RV volume, hyperinflation, or LV diastolic compliance are simultaneously occurring.} } @article{pittir16037, volume = {18}, number = {3}, month = {June}, author = {MR Pinsky}, title = {Heart lung interactions during mechanical ventilation}, journal = {Current Opinion in Critical Care}, pages = {256 -- 260}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16037/}, abstract = {Purpose of review: To survey the recent medical literature examining studies of the hemodynamic effects of mechanical ventilation. Recent findings: Ventilation-induced dynamic changes in arterial pulse pressure and stroke volume variation (PPV and SVV, respectively) identify volume responsiveness. The cause of PPV and SVV are due to intrathoracic pressure-induced variations in right atrial pressure changing intrathoracic blood volume over the ventilatory cycle. This explains why PPV and SVV are inaccurate with smaller tidal volumes used in acute lung injury, but remain useful in one-lung ventilation and prone positioning. Noninvasive measures of PPV and SVV using finger plethysmography and aortic root ultrasound or estimates of intrathoracic blood volume by thoracic impedance also predict volume responsiveness. Finally, the PPV-to-SVV ratio varies with vasomotor tone and can be used to identify vasopressor need in hypotensive patients. The clinical implications of these findings are starting to be realized in recommended management principles. Summary: PPV and SVV predict volume responsiveness, but like all monitoring approaches, need to be understood within the framework of their physiologic determinations. {\copyright} 2012 Wolters Kluwer Health {\ensuremath{|}} Lippincott Williams \& Wilkins.} } @article{pittir12799, volume = {13}, number = {3}, month = {May}, author = {MR Pinsky}, title = {Identifying fluid responsiveness in septic children without giving fluids}, journal = {Pediatric Critical Care Medicine}, pages = {367 -- 368}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12799/} } @incollection{pittir16023, booktitle = {Applied Physiology in Intensive Care Medicine 1: Physiological Notes - Technical Notes - Seminal Studies in Intensive Care, Third Edition}, month = {January}, title = {Pulmonary artery occlusion pressure}, author = {MR Pinsky}, year = {2012}, pages = {83 -- 86}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16023/}, abstract = {The bedside estimation of left ventricular (LV) performance of critically ill patients is an important aspect of the diagnosis and management of these patients. Ever since the introduction of the balloon flotation pulmonary catheterization, health care providers have used measurements of pulmonary artery occlusion pressure (Ppao) to estimate both pulmonary venous pressure and LV preload. However, the significance of any specific value for Ppao in the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular insufficiency in patients with diseases other than cardiogenic shock has never been validated. The reasons for this continued uncertainty reflect both intrinsic inaccuracies in the measurement of Ppao and misconceptions about their physiological significance. In this first Physiological Note we shall discuss problems in the accurate measurement of Ppao at the bedside, while in the second Physiological Note we shall discuss the physiological significance of Ppao measurements.} } @incollection{pittir16034, booktitle = {Applied Physiology in Intensive Care Medicine 2: Physiological Reviews and Editorials}, month = {January}, title = {Using ventilation-induced aortic pressure and flow variation to diagnose preload responsiveness}, author = {MR Pinsky}, year = {2012}, pages = {359 -- 361}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16034/}, abstract = {The recent literature has documented that both arterial pulse pressure [1] and left ventricular stroke volume variations [2] induced by positive-pressure ventilation are sensitive and specific markers of preload responsiveness. The greater the degree of flow or pressure variation over the course of the respiratory cycle for a fixed tidal volume, the more likely the subject is to increase their cardiac output in response to a volume challenge and the greater that increase may be. Slama et al. [3] report in this issue that in a rabbit model of graded hemorrhage measuresof aortic flow variation during positive-pressureventilation cardiac output will increase in response to volume expansion. Furthermore} } @incollection{pittir16027, booktitle = {Applied Physiology in Intensive Care Medicine 2: Physiological Reviews and Editorials}, month = {January}, title = {The role of the right ventricle in determining cardiac output in the critically ill}, author = {MR Pinsky}, year = {2012}, pages = {317 -- 318}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16027/}, abstract = {Assessment and management of cardiovascular homeostasis represent a cornerstone in the teaching and practice of critical care medicine. Indeed, most invasive hemodynamic monitoring is done in an attempt to understand cardiovascular status and its response to specific therapies. Bedside insert ion of a flow-directed balloon-tipped pulmonary arterial cha theter to measure pulmonary artery occlusion pressure (Ppao) (as an estimate of left ventricular filling pressure) and cardiac output (by the thermodilution technique) in the hemodynamically unstable patient is now routine [1]. Using these data and derived parameters of left ventricular (LV) function [2) has allowed the clinician to diagnose common causes of cardiovascular instability, such as acute myocard ial infarction, tamponade, and other causes of LV failure versus hypovolemia [3]. From the time o f its introduction onward, the flow-directed balloon-tipped pulmonary artery catheter has been within the domain of the intensivist.} } @incollection{pittir16022, booktitle = {Annual Update in Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine 2012}, title = {Afferent limb of rapid response activation system}, author = {Michael R Pinsky}, publisher = {Springer-Verlag}, year = {2012}, pages = {494 -- 503}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16022/} } @incollection{pittir16043, booktitle = {Principles of Critical Care}, title = {Assessing the Circulation}, author = {Michael R Pinsky}, address = {New York}, publisher = {McGraw-Hill}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16043/} } @incollection{pittir16044, booktitle = {Textbook of Mechanical Ventilation National Mexican Academy of Medicine, Mexican Academy of Surgery \& Mexican College Anaesthesiology}, title = {Cardiopulmonary interactions during Mechanical Ventilation}, author = {Michael R Pinsky}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16044/} } @incollection{pittir16040, booktitle = {All About Monitoring}, title = {Cardiovascular insufficiency with initiation and withdrawal of mechanical ventilation}, author = {Michael R Pinsky}, publisher = {TSCCM}, year = {2012}, pages = {49 -- 51}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16040/} } @incollection{pittir16030, booktitle = {Applied Physiology in Intensive Care Medicine 2: Physiological Reviews and Editorials}, title = {Functional hemodynamic monitoring}, author = {Michael R Pinsky}, publisher = {Springer}, year = {2012}, pages = {2012 -- ?}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16030/} } @article{pittir12842, title = {Goal-Directed Therapy: Optimizing fluid management in your patient}, author = {Michael R Pinsky}, publisher = {Saxe Healthcare Communications}, year = {2012}, pages = {1 -- 12}, note = {Includes Panel Discussion: Optimizing Fluid Management: Opinions from the Experts beginning on p. 5.}, journal = {Initiatives in Safe Patient Care}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12842/}, abstract = {Surgical trauma often exposes patients to periods of cardiovascular insufficiency, either because of anesthesia-induced loss of vasomotor tone and baroreceptor responsiveness, or because of blood loss and mechanical obstruction to blood flow. In all cases, cardiac output will fall and if the heart rate remains constant, stroke volume will fall as well. If there is sustained cardiovascular insufficiency with inadequate O2 delivery to the tissues, then end-organ dysfunction may occur, resulting in increased patient morbidity and mortality. Although most surgery does not result in profound tissue hypoperfusion causing organ system function, some degree of hypoperfusion does occur. Since surgical stress also stimulates a vigorous cytokine storm, the combination of relative hypoperfusion and immune modulation will alter the microcirculation, causing subclinical injury. Until {\texttt{\char126}}20 years ago, it was felt that these concerns were primarily academic and did not affect patient outcomes. However, in the 1980s, William Shoemaker and colleagues documented that a surgery-associated reduction of global oxygen delivery (DO2), calculated as the product of cardiac output and arterial oxygen content, resulted in a deficiency relative to the preoperative basal oxygen delivery/oxygen consumption. Importantly, if this decreased DO2 caused O2 consumption to also fall, then it was assumed to reflect a surgery-induced "oxygen delivery debt." The magnitude of this oxygen debt was uniquely associated with the patient outcome in that both morbidity and mortality were associated with the highest levels of oxygen debt. Although their initial clinical trial to target what they referred to as "survivor levels" of DO2 was successful, subsequent trails were uniformly negative or actually resulted in a worse outcome. It was presumed at the time that the risks associated with aggressive resuscitation and vasoactive drug therapies needed to achieve these levels of DO2 could be detrimental.} } @incollection{pittir16021, booktitle = {Comprehensive Critical Care}, title = {Hemodynamic Monitoring}, author = {Michael R Pinsky}, publisher = {Society of Critical Care Medicine}, year = {2012}, pages = {121 -- 138}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16021/} } @incollection{pittir16039, booktitle = {All About Monitoring}, title = {Placing functional hemodynamic monitoring in perspective}, author = {Michael R Pinsky}, year = {2012}, pages = {45 -- 48}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16039/} } @incollection{pittir16029, booktitle = {Applied Physiology in Intensive Care Medicine 2: Physiological Reviews and Editorials}, title = {The cardiovascular response to weaning from mechanical ventilation}, author = {Michael R Pinsky}, publisher = {Springer}, year = {2012}, pages = {323 -- 326}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16029/} } @incollection{pittir16038, booktitle = {All About Monitoring}, title = {The future of critical care monitoring}, author = {Michael R Pinsky}, publisher = {TSCCM}, year = {2012}, pages = {7 -- 8}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16038/} } @article{pittir15884, volume = {7}, number = {8}, month = {August}, title = {Direct and indirect effects of rotavirus vaccination: Comparing predictions from transmission dynamic models}, author = {VE Pitzer and KE Atkins and BF de Blasio and T van Effelterre and CJ Atchison and JP Harris and E Shim and AP Galvani and WJ Edmunds and C Viboud and MM Patel and BT Grenfell and UD Parashar and BA Lopman}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15884/}, abstract = {Early observations from countries that have introduced rotavirus vaccination suggest that there may be indirect protection for unvaccinated individuals, but it is unclear whether these benefits will extend to the long term. Transmission dynamic models have attempted to quantify the indirect protection that might be expected from rotavirus vaccination in developed countries, but results have varied. To better understand the magnitude and sources of variability in model projections, we undertook a comparative analysis of transmission dynamic models for rotavirus. We fit five models to reported rotavirus gastroenteritis (RVGE) data from England and Wales, and evaluated outcomes for short- and long-term vaccination effects. All of our models reproduced the important features of rotavirus epidemics in England and Wales. Models predicted that during the initial year after vaccine introduction, incidence of severe RVGE would be reduced 1.8-2.9 times more than expected from the direct effects of the vaccine alone (28-50\% at 90\% coverage), but over a 5-year period following vaccine introduction severe RVGE would be reduced only by 1.1-1.7 times more than expected from the direct effects (54-90\% at 90\% coverage). Projections for the long-term reduction of severe RVGE ranged from a 55\% reduction at full coverage to elimination with at least 80\% coverage. Our models predicted short-term reductions in the incidence of RVGE that exceeded estimates of the direct effects, consistent with observations from the United States and other countries. Some of the models predicted that the short-term indirect benefits may be offset by a partial shifting of the burden of RVGE to older unvaccinated individuals. Nonetheless, even when such a shift occurs, the overall reduction in severe RVGE is considerable. Discrepancies among model predictions reflect uncertainties about age variation in the risk and reporting of RVGE, and the duration of natural and vaccine-induced immunity, highlighting important questions for future research.} } @article{pittir18731, volume = {3}, number = {3}, month = {March}, author = {C Pizzo and P Faral-Tello and G Salinas and M Fl{\'o} and C Robello and P Wipf and S Graciela Mahler}, title = {Selenosemicarbazones as potent cruzipain inhibitors and their antiparasitic properties against Trypanosoma cruzi}, journal = {MedChemComm}, pages = {362 -- 368}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18731/}, abstract = {The cysteine protease cruzipain is an essential T. cruzi enzyme and one of the few validated drug targets for Chagas disease. Thiosemicarbazones have been described as cruzipain inhibitors. While searching for new antichagasic drugs, we synthesized a series of selenosemicarbazone analogs and demonstrated that the isosteric replacement of the sulfur atom with selenium resulted in an enhancement of the cysteine protease inhibitory effect. Three selenosemicarbazones were characterized enzymatically and proved to be reversible, slow-binding inhibitors for the Z-Phe-Arg-AMC substrate. Their K I values were in the low nM range (3.7 to 29.7 nM), suggesting a strong interaction with the enzyme, approaching a tight binding definition. All selenosemicarbazones tested showed better activities against epimastigotes than Benznidazole, the currently used drug, with IC 50 values ranging from 1.2 to 5.9 {\ensuremath{\mu}}M (Bnz IC 50 = 12.5 {\ensuremath{\mu}}M). Three of these compounds showed a better Selectivity Index (SI) than Benznidazole. These compounds also displayed activity against the infective intracellular amastigote form at low micromolar range. Overall, our results support the role of these novel organoselenium compounds as promising lead candidates for further drug development studies. {\copyright} 2012 The Royal Society of Chemistry.} } @unpublished{pittir12589, month = {June}, title = {STAT1-Regulated Lung MDSC-like Cells Aid Resolution of Inflammation After Bacterial Pneumonia}, author = {Stephanie L. Poe}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Immune Regulation Myeloid Cells Interleukin-10 Lung Biology Pneumonia STAT1}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12589/}, abstract = {We have recently identified a CD11b+Gr1intF4/80+ (Gr1int) regulatory, non-migratory, cell type in the lung that is able to suppress a Th2 effector response via secretion of Interleukin-10 (IL-10), arginase 1 (Arg1) and nitric oxide (NO). These regulatory lung Gr1int cells also secrete Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and Granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF), but low levels of Interleukin-12 (IL-12). Our studies show that although Gr1int cells are present in the lung of na{\"i}ve mice, their frequency increases in the interstitium following endotoxin/lipopolysaccharide (LPS) exposure in a TLR4/MyD88-dependent fashion. The suppressive function of these Gr1int cells is significant in the context of allergic inflammation, and because this suppressive cell type accumulates in the lung in response to a bacterial cell wall component, they may be a mechanism underlying the hygiene hypothesis, which was postulated in 1989 to describe the observation that despite increased sanitation in westernized countries, the prevalence of allergies is steadily increasing. Because of the potent suppressive capacity of lung Gr1int, they are now recognized as lung myeloid derived suppressor cells (lung-MDSCs)1. We sought to gain a better understanding of their development to allow for improved therapeutic targets during allergic inflammation. Secondly, the rapid appearance of these cells in response to a TLR ligand, combined with their non-migratory nature and their anatomical location in the lung interstitium, suggests a unique function during host defense against bacterial infections. Much is already known about the role of alveolar macrophages and neutrophils in host defense against Klebsiella pneumoniae, but little is known about host defense mechanisms in the lung tissue/interstitium. Therefore, we have also examined the role of MDSC-like cells in defense against K. pneumoniae. Briefly, although an inflammatory response in the lung is required to fight the causative agent, persistent tissue-resident neutrophils can induce collateral tissue damage and precipitate acute lung injury during non-resolving pneumonia. Little is known about mechanisms orchestrated in the lung tissue that remove apoptotic neutrophils to restore tissue homeostasis. We show that these MDSC-like cells increase following exposure to K. pneumoniae, are able to efferocytose apoptotic neutrophils and are a major source of IL-10 in the lung late after infection. Furthermore, using IL-10-/- mice, we show that IL-10 is critical for the control of neutrophilia and restoration of homeostasis. Finally, because IFN{\ensuremath{\gamma}}-STAT1 signaling is known to inhibit IL-10, we examined the lungs of STAT1-/- mice. The lung neutrophil burden was attenuated in infected STAT1-/- mice with concomitant increase in the frequency of the MDSC-like cells and lung IL-10 levels. Thus, inhibiting STAT1 in combination with antibiotics may be a novel therapeutic strategy to address inefficient resolution of bacterial pneumonia. The inhibition of STAT1 may also be relevant in the context of allergic inflammation when a greater immunosuppressive force, or increased numbers of lung MDSCs, would be advantageous to temper lung inflammation. } } @article{pittir29885, volume = {16}, number = {S2}, month = {June}, author = {Kees H Polderman}, title = {Is therapeutic hypothermia immunosuppressive?}, publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC}, journal = {Critical Care}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29885/} } @unpublished{pittir11852, month = {July}, title = {?THE GEOGRAPHICALL COMPASS?: HISTORY, AUTHORITY AND UTILITY IN THE ENGLISH VOYAGE ACCOUNT, 1660-1730}, author = {Jacob Pollock}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Early Modern, Voyage Accounts, History of the Book, Historiography, Travel Writing, Travel Literature, Royal Society, History of Science, Maritime History}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11852/}, abstract = {The late-seventeenth and early-eighteenth centuries saw a dramatic increase in the publication of accounts of voyages on the London book market. These publications ranged from brief extracts of romantic narratives involving shipwrecks in the East Indies to multi-volume compilations of voyages to all parts of the world, printed in folio and containing numerous maps and engravings. Existing scholarship often views such accounts as entertainment destined for a popular audience. This dissertation shows how the voyage account was used in multiple genres and multiple intellectual contexts, finding its way into debates about natural philosophy, religion, and history, and playing as important a role in the work of the Royal Society as it did in the literary practices of the period. By investigating these books as key texts in a changing intellectual and cultural climate, and understanding their relationships with other genres, ?The Geographicall Compass? offers a reader?s view of empire and the world in England between 1660 and 1730. This project analyses the interaction between the narrative and paratextual elements of accounts of long-range voyages of discovery in the early-modern era, in order to investigate how ideas about the New World found their way into political, scientific and cultural spheres in seventeenth-century Europe. I argue that we can understand how the commercial market shaped knowledge of the New World by considering these books as books ? written, published, bought and sold for a reading public, subject to commercial pressures and prone to failure. Focussing mainly but not exclusively on voyages to the New World, this dissertation uses Samuel Purchas? metaphor ? the voyage account as a compass ? to discuss these texts in their scientific, religious, literary and political contexts. As the cartographers of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries used the geometrical compass to shape their maps, and seamen used the magnetic compass to find their direction in the expanse of the sea, so I use the compass as a way of understanding texts that are composite, multi-layered, and were produced in multiple, overlapping contexts.} } @unpublished{pittir16881, month = {December}, title = {The Effects of Cocaine Self-Administration on Cognition and Brain Metabolism}, author = {Jessica Porter}, year = {2012}, keywords = {addiction, executive function, imaging, cocaine, cognition}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16881/}, abstract = {Cocaine users display a wide range of cognitive impairments and dysfunction in brain regions important for cognition. Treatment outcome is dependent on cognitive ability. It is important to understand these deficits and the underlying neurobiology. The first aim was to determine whether cocaine is sufficient to cause cognitive deficits, and if so, to determine the specificity of these cognitive deficits. Secondly, we assessed cerebral metabolic function after a drug free period. We used rhesus monkeys in a longitudinal study in which 14 animals were characterized prior to assignment to matched control (n=6) and cocaine self-administration (n=8) groups. Self-administration took place daily over nine months during which, visual and auditory contextual cues were presented. Weekly cognitive assessments were conducted following a 72 hour drug free period. We employed a stimulus discrimination/reversal task to evaluate associative learning and cognitive flexibility and the delayed match-to-sample task to assess visual working memory. In the cocaine group, we observed significant impairments in reversal performance and visual working memory after self-administration compared to controls. We examined distractibility in both groups, using brief novel distractors. Subsequently, an identical approach was used for exposure to a distractor previously associated with cocaine (experimental group), or water in the control group. In the cocaine group, stimulus discrimination was unaffected by either distractor, whereas reversal performance was disrupted by both the novel and appetitive distractors relative to baseline. Visual working memory was impaired in the cocaine group in the presence of the novel distractor. The control group?s performance was unaffected by the presentation of either distractor. Monkeys were drug free for 20 months prior to assessment of metabolic function using 18F-2-deoxyfluoro-D-glucose positron emission tomography. The cocaine group showed greater cerebellar activity than the control group while performing a visual working memory task (relative to control task). This work confirms that cocaine self-administration is sufficient to cause long lasting cognitive impairments in cognitive control, visual working memory and attention. These data also suggest that cocaine exposure alters cerebellar function, but future studies will need to be conducted to confirm that cocaine exposure is the direct cause of the metabolic differences observed.} } @article{pittir24609, volume = {12}, number = {1}, month = {November}, title = {School closure as an influenza mitigation strategy: How variations in legal authority and plan criteria can alter the impact}, author = {MA Potter and ST Brown and PC Cooley and PM Sweeney and TB Hershey and SM Gleason and BY Lee and CR Keane and J Grefenstette and DS Burke}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Public Health}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/24609/}, abstract = {Background: States' pandemic influenza plans and school closure statutes are intended to guide state and local officials, but most faced a great deal of uncertainty during the 2009 influenza H1N1 epidemic. Questions remained about whether, when, and for how long to close schools and about which agencies and officials had legal authority over school closures. Methods. This study began with analysis of states' school-closure statutes and pandemic influenza plans to identify the variations among them. An agent-based model of one state was used to represent as constants a population's demographics, commuting patterns, work and school attendance, and community mixing patterns while repeated simulations explored the effects of variations in school closure authority, duration, closure thresholds, and reopening criteria. Results: The results show no basis on which to justify statewide rather than school-specific or community-specific authority for school closures. Nor do these simulations offer evidence to require school closures promptly at the earliest stage of an epidemic. More important are criteria based on monitoring of local case incidence and on authority to sustain closure periods sufficiently to achieve epidemic mitigation. Conclusions: This agent-based simulation suggests several ways to improve statutes and influenza plans. First, school closure should remain available to state and local authorities as an influenza mitigation strategy. Second, influenza plans need not necessarily specify the threshold for school closures but should clearly define provisions for early and ongoing local monitoring. Finally, school closure authority may be exercised at the statewide or local level, so long as decisions are informed by monitoring incidence in local communities and schools. {\copyright} 2012 Potter et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir24646, volume = {18}, number = {3}, month = {May}, author = {MA Potter and ST Brown and BY Lee and J Grefenstette and CR Keane and CJ Lin and SC Quinn and S Stebbins and PM Sweeney and DS Burke}, title = {Preparedness for pandemics: Does variation among states affect the nation as a whole?}, journal = {Journal of Public Health Management and Practice}, pages = {233 -- 240}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/24646/}, abstract = {Objective: Since states public health systems differ as to pandemic preparedness, this study explored whether such heterogeneity among states could affect the nations overall influenza rate. Design: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention produced a uniform set of scores on a 100-point scale from its 2008 national evaluation of state preparedness to distribute materiel from the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS). This study used these SNS scores to represent each states relative preparedness to distribute influenza vaccine in a timely manner and assumed that "optimal" vaccine distribution would reach at least 35\% of the states population within 4 weeks. The scores were used to determine the timing of vaccine distribution for each state: each 10-point decrement of score below 90 added an additional delay increment to the distribution time. Setting and Participants: A large-scale agent-based computational model simulated an influenza pandemic in the US population. In this synthetic population each individual or agent had an assigned household, age, workplace or school destination, daily commute, and domestic intercity air travel patterns. Main Outcome Measures: Simulations compared influenza case rates both nationally and at the state level under 3 Scenarios: no vaccine distribution (baseline), optimal vaccine distribution in all states, and vaccine distribution time modified according to state-specific SNS score. Results: Between optimal and SNS-modified scenarios, attack rates rose not only in low-scoring states but also in high-scoring states, demonstrating an interstate spread of infections. Influenza rates were sensitive to variation of the SNS-modified scenario (delay increments of 1 day versus 5 days), but the interstate effect remained. Conclusions: The effectiveness of a response activity such as vaccine distribution could benefit from national standards and preparedness funding allocated in part to minimize interstate disparities. Copyright {\copyright} 2012 Lippincott Williams \& Wilkins.} } @unpublished{pittir11774, month = {May}, title = {Operationalizing the Values of History and Historical Education for Secondary Textbook Designs}, author = {A. Eroica Poulakos Hreha}, year = {2012}, keywords = {History Textbooks, Secondary History, History Education}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11774/}, abstract = {Textbooks are not adequate resources from which to teach secondary history for two reasons: first, they largely disregard the nature of history, and second, they do not employ a sound method to learn history. In an attempt to address this problem, I employ three research questions: ? What have been the standards of United States history curriculum in secondary education over the past three decades, since the publication of A Nation at Risk? ? What is the nature of history and historical education in light of Nietzsche and Dewey respectively? ? How can the proper use of a curriculum design help in the authentic learning of history using Nietzsche and Dewey? The study will analyze the discourse on history education to discern a set of values underwriting the field. Once discerned, these values will serve as a paradigm by which alternative curricular designs can be created. The study will rely on two philosophers interested in both history and education, Friedrich Nietzsche and John Dewey. Nietzsche?s (1873) ?On the Use and Abuse of History for Life,? argued that history is justified insofar as it affords us equipment for life. Dewey?s (1938) Experience and Education posited that education is justified insofar as it is an authentic experience. With the discussion of their views in mind, the study shows that Nietzsche and Dewey?s insights lend themselves to a typology of values that prove helpful when attempting to move beyond the impasse on historical understanding and instruction. These values come in the form of five commitments: to life, action, the present, the useful, and the interplay of permanence and change. This typology serves as a reminder of those values of history and historical education that, over the years, may have been neglected. It also provides directions and aspirations for teachers and students who may have been misguided. But before this typology can be introduced to the history classroom, its terms must be given a concrete curricular face. This comes in the form of a critical reading of a primary document, and a discussion and illustration of the tasks and skills embedded in a new curricular design.} } @unpublished{pittir10541, month = {January}, title = {THE STRUCTURE OF THE TRANSVERSE CARPAL LIGAMENT: ITS COLLAGEN FIBER ORIENTATION AND THE EFFICACY OF COLLAGENASE IN DECREASING ITS STIFFNESS}, author = {Ryan/RKP Prantil}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Carpal Tunnel Mechanics Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Collagenase Collagen Fiber Orientation Small Angle Light Scattering Transverse Carpal Ligament}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10541/}, abstract = {Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) currently affects more than three million Americans each year. Hand surgeons treat CTS by targeting the transverse carpal ligament (TCL) which acts as the palmar roof of the carpal tunnel. Based on general observation, the TCL appears to be an inextensible collagenous matrix with fibers roughly oriented along the transverse direction. Several studies on the TCL?s configuration argue for different fiber orientations consisting of either oblique or transverse orientations; whereas, most findings were based on an observational methodology. Very few studies have determined such fiber orientations; whereas, even fewer studies have researched the ligament?s mechanical properties. Furthermore, the potential of altering the TCL?s microstructure may provide a potential, alternative to the currently accepted, invasive standards. Previous studies attempting to lengthen the TCL found that such procedures can effectively diminish CTS symptoms and also decrease the progression of several post-operative complications. However, these procedures consist of transecting the transverse carpal ligament in an attempt to increase its length. Furthermore, mechanical stimuli cannot alter the ligament because it is too stiff. In addition, such procedures also require invasive surgery and can cause complications that arise from carpal tunnel release. Therefore, a solution might lie in the application of collagenase where antecedent works have shown its capacity to reduce the v mechanical properties of a tissue. The following studies have emphasized the transverse carpal ligament?s collagen orientation and its mechanical response to subsequent collagenase treatment. The preferential collagen direction was quantified through the use of small angle light scattering (SALS). Results showed that transverse orientation was the most prevalent with minimal changes found within its orientation along its thickness. As for the TCL?s response to collagenase, standard concentrations of collagenase were applied to the TCL for each specimen through successive mechanical loading protocols along with successive observations to analyze the progressive changes within the ligament by slowly eliminating its collagen network. Collagenase effectively decreased the transverse carpal ligament?s stiffness without significantly changing its mechanical properties. Furthermore, these studies could contribute to a more sophisticated model of the TCL and lead to the development of a minimally invasive therapy contrary to current, invasive standards.} } @article{pittir29812, volume = {10}, number = {S2}, month = {October}, author = {Julie C Price and Chester A Mathis and William E Klunk}, title = {Positron emission tomography imaging of amyloid-beta plaque deposition: a decade of translation}, publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC}, journal = {Journal of Translational Medicine}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29812/} } @unpublished{pittir10661, month = {January}, title = {Rehearsing L2 academic vocabulary with cloze exercises: a computer-assisted language learning intervention}, author = {William C. Price}, year = {2012}, keywords = {computer assisted language learning, academic vocabulary, ESL}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10661/}, abstract = {Choosing appropriate methods and levels of scaffolding (see, e.g., Wood, Bruner, \& Ross, 1976) is a crucial skill in second language instruction. The observation that too little or too much scaffolding for a task leads to an inferior learning outcome, known as the assistance dilemma (Koedinger \& Aleven, 2007), has resisted quantitative analysis. However, it is now possible to take advantage of computerized tutors? ability to precisely measure response latencies and accuracy rates to provide quantitative data to analyze the merits of different methods of scaffolding with regard to students? performance on individual tasks. The present study describes a computer-aided language learning intervention in which 46 intermediate-level adult ESL speakers used a web-based vocabulary rehearsal program several times over the course of nine weeks. The tutor led participants in completing cloze exercises of the target words, with half of the exercises being presented with a hint in the form of a short definition of the target word and half of the exercises being presented without a hint. The results of the experiment indicate that the presence of the hint significantly increased participants? accuracy on the task, but also significantly increased time on task. These results suggest that the form of support selected was an appropriate scaffold. However, L1 speakers of Arabic (N = 29) proved exceptional in a few ways: they expressed negative attitudes toward L2 writing tasks in general and did not show any increase in accuracy in the scaffolded condition, despite the fact that speakers of other L1s showed a very large and statistically significant improvement in accuracy in that condition. These issues may relate to Arabic speakers? exceptional difficulties processing English orthography (Martin, 2011) and warrant future study.} } @article{pittir22403, volume = {42}, number = {6}, month = {June}, author = {BA Primack and MV Carroll and M McNamara and ML Klem and B King and M Rich and CW Chan and S Nayak}, title = {Role of video games in improving health-related outcomes: A systematic review}, journal = {American Journal of Preventive Medicine}, pages = {630 -- 638}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22403/}, abstract = {Context: Video games represent a multibillion-dollar industry in the U.S. Although video gaming has been associated with many negative health consequences, it also may be useful for therapeutic purposes. The goal of this study was to determine whether video games may be useful in improving health outcomes. Evidence acquisition: Literature searches were performed in February 2010 in six databases: the Center on Media and Child Health Database of Research, MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Reference lists were hand-searched to identify additional studies. Only RCTs that tested the effect of video games on a positive, clinically relevant health consequence were included. Study selection criteria were strictly defined and applied by two researchers working independently. Study background information (e.g., location, funding source); sample data (e.g., number of study participants, demographics); intervention and control details; outcomes data; and quality measures were abstracted independently by two researchers. Evidence synthesis: Of 1452 articles retrieved using the current search strategy, 38 met all criteria for inclusion. Eligible studies used video games to provide physical therapy, psychological therapy, improved disease self-management, health education, distraction from discomfort, increased physical activity, and skills training for clinicians. Among the 38 studies, a total of 195 health outcomes were examined. Video games improved 69\% of psychological therapy outcomes, 59\% of physical therapy outcomes, 50\% of physical activity outcomes, 46\% of clinician skills outcomes, 42\% of health education outcomes, 42\% of pain distraction outcomes, and 37\% of disease self-management outcomes. Study quality was generally poor; for example, two thirds (66\%) of studies had follow-up periods of {\ensuremath{<}}12 weeks, and only 11\% of studies blinded researchers. Conclusions: There is potential promise for video games to improve health outcomes, particularly in the areas of psychological therapy and physical therapy. RCTs with appropriate rigor will help build evidence in this emerging area. {\copyright} 2012 American Journal of Preventive Medicine.} } @article{pittir22569, volume = {4}, number = {4}, month = {December}, author = {BA Primack and KM Hendricks and MR Longacre and AM Adachi-Mejia and JE Weiss and LJ Titus and ML Beach and MA Dalton}, title = {Parental efficacy and child behavior in a community sample of children with and without attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)}, journal = {ADHD Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorders}, pages = {189 -- 197}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22569/}, abstract = {Most studies of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) youth have obtained data from the perspective of either children or parents, but not both simultaneously. The purpose of this study was to examine child and parent perspectives on parenting in a large community-based sample of children with and without ADHD. We identified children in grades 4-6 and their parents through surveys administered to a random sample of public schools. We used multivariable logistic regression to determine independent associations between child and parent characteristics and the presence of ADHD while controlling for covariates and clustering by school. Sufficient data were achieved for 2,509 child/parent dyads. Ten percent of youths (n = 240) had been diagnosed with ADHD. Compared with those without ADHD, those with ADHD were more commonly male (67. 9 vs. 48. 0 \%, p {\ensuremath{<}}.001) and age 12 or over (16. 3 vs. 10. 3 \%). After adjusting for covariates and clustering, compared to children without ADHD, children with ADHD were significantly more likely to report lower self-regulation (OR = 0. 68, 95 \% CI = 0. 53, 0. 88) and higher levels of rebelliousness (OR = 2. 00, 95 \% CI = 1. 52, 2. 69). Compared with parents whose children did not have ADHD, parents of children with ADHD rated their overall parental efficacy substantially lower (OR = 0. 23, 95 \% CI = 0. 15, 0. 33). However, child assessment of parenting style was similar by ADHD. Despite the internal challenges community-based youth with ADHD face, many parents of ADHD youth exhibit valuable parental skills from the perspective of their children. Feedback of this information to parents may improve parental self-efficacy, which is known to be positively associated with improved ADHD outcomes. {\copyright} 2012 Springer-Verlag.} } @article{pittir22409, volume = {102}, number = {9}, month = {September}, title = {US health policy related to hookah tobacco smoking}, author = {BA Primack and M Hopkins and C Hallett and MV Carroll and M Zeller and K Dachille and KH Kim and MJ Fine and JM Donohue}, year = {2012}, journal = {American Journal of Public Health}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22409/}, abstract = {Objectives: Although US cigarette smoking is decreasing, hookah tobacco smoking (HTS) is an emerging trend associated with substantial toxicant exposure. We assessed how a representative sample of US tobacco control policies may apply to HTS. Methods: We examined municipal, county, and state legal texts applying to the 100 largest US cities. We developed a summary policy variable that distinguished among cities on the basis of how current tobacco control policies may apply to HTS and used multinomial logistic regression to determine associations between community-level sociodemographic variables and the policy outcome variable. Results: Although 73 of the 100 largest US cities have laws that disallow cigarette smoking in bars, 69 of these cities have exemptions that allow HTS; 4 of the 69 have passed legislation specifically exempting HTS, and 65 may permit HTS via generic tobacco retail establishment exemptions. Cities in which HTS may be exempted had denser populations than cities without clean air legislation. Conclusions: Although three fourths of the largest US cities disallow cigarette smoking in bars, nearly 90\% of these cities may permit HTS via exemptions. Closing this gap in clean air regulation may significantly reduce exposure to HTS.} } @article{pittir22402, month = {July}, title = {Tobacco, marijuana, and alcohol use in university students: A cluster analysis}, author = {BA Primack and KH Kim and A Shensa and JE Sidani and TE Barnett and GE Switzer}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22402/}, abstract = {Objective: Segmentation of populations may facilitate development of targeted substance abuse prevention programs. The authors aimed to partition a national sample of university students according to profiles based on substance use. Participants: The authors used 2008-2009 data from the National College Health Assessment from the American College Health Association. The sample consisted of 111,245 individuals from 158 institutions. Methods: The sample was partitioned using cluster analysis according to current substance use behaviors. The association of cluster membership with individual and institutional characteristics was examined. Results: Cluster analysis yielded 6 distinct clusters. Three individual factors-gender, year in school, and fraternity/sorority membership-were the most strongly associated with cluster membership. Conclusions: In a large sample of university students, the authors were able to identify 6 distinct patterns of substance abuse. It may be valuable to target specific populations of college-aged substance users based on individual factors. However, comprehensive intervention will require a multifaceted approach. Copyright {\copyright} 2012 Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.} } @article{pittir22398, volume = {104}, number = {7}, month = {April}, author = {BA Primack and MR Longacre and ML Beach and AM Adachi-Mejia and LJ Titus and MA Dalton}, title = {Association of established smoking among adolescents with timing of exposure to smoking depicted in movies}, journal = {Journal of the National Cancer Institute}, pages = {549 -- 555}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22398/}, abstract = {Background It is not known whether exposure to smoking depicted in movies carries greater influence during early or late adolescence. We aimed to quantify the independent relative contribution to established smoking of exposure to smoking depicted in movies during both early and late adolescence. Methods We prospectively assessed 2049 nonsmoking students recruited from 14 randomly selected public schools in New Hampshire and Vermont. At baseline enrollment, students aged 10-14 years completed a written survey to determine personal, family, and sociodemographic characteristics and exposure to depictions of smoking in the movies (early exposure). Seven years later, we conducted follow-up telephone interviews to ascertain follow-up exposure to movie smoking (late exposure) and smoking behavior. We used multiple regression models to assess associations between early and late exposure and development of established smoking. Results One-sixth (17.3\%) of the sample progressed to established smoking. In analyses that controlled for covariates and included early and late exposure in the same model, we found that students in the highest quartile for early exposure had 73\% greater risk of established smoking than those in the lowest quartile for early exposure (27.8\% vs 8.6\%; relative risk for Q4 vs Q1 = 1.73, 95\% confidence interval = 1.14 to 2.62). However, late exposure to depictions of smoking in movies was not statistically significantly associated with established smoking (22.1\% vs 14.0\%; relative risk for Q4 vs Q1 = 1.13, 95\% confidence interval = 0.89 to 1.44). Whereas 31.6\% of established smoking was attributable to early exposure, only an additional 5.3\% was attributable to late exposure. Conclusion s Early exposure to smoking depicted in movies is associated with established smoking among adolescents. Educational and policy-related interventions should focus on minimizing early exposure to smoking depicted in movies. {\copyright} 2012 The Author.} } @article{pittir22399, volume = {107}, number = {3}, month = {March}, author = {BA Primack and E Nuzzo and KR Rice and JD Sargent}, title = {Alcohol brand appearances in US popular music}, journal = {Addiction}, pages = {557 -- 566}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22399/}, abstract = {Aims The average US adolescent is exposed to 34 references to alcohol in popular music daily. Although brand recognition is an independent, potent risk factor for alcohol outcomes among adolescents, alcohol brand appearances in popular music have not been assessed systematically. We aimed to determine the prevalence of and contextual elements associated with alcohol brand appearances in US popular music. Design Qualitative content analysis. Setting We used Billboard Magazine to identify songs to which US adolescents were most exposed in 2005-07. For each of the 793 songs, two trained coders analyzed independently the lyrics of each song for references to alcohol and alcohol brand appearances. Subsequent in-depth assessments utilized Atlas.ti to determine contextual factors associated with each of the alcohol brand appearances. Measurements Our final code book contained 27 relevant codes representing six categories: alcohol types, consequences, emotional states, activities, status and objects. Findings Average inter-rater reliability was high ({\ensuremath{\kappa}}=0.80), and all differences were easily adjudicated. Of the 793 songs in our sample, 169 (21.3\%) referred explicitly to alcohol, and of those, 41 (24.3\%) contained an alcohol brand appearance. Consequences associated with alcohol were more often positive than negative (41.5\% versus 17.1\%, P{\ensuremath{<}}0.001). Alcohol brand appearances were associated commonly with wealth (63.4\%), sex (58.5\%), luxury objects (51.2\%), partying (48.8\%), other drugs (43.9\%) and vehicles (39.0\%). Conclusions One in five songs sampled from US popular music had explicit references to alcohol, and one-quarter of these mentioned a specific alcohol brand. These alcohol brand appearances are associated commonly with a luxury life-style characterized by wealth, sex, partying and other drugs. {\copyright} 2011 The Authors, Addiction {\copyright} 2011 Society for the Study of Addiction.} } @article{pittir22400, volume = {42}, number = {2}, month = {February}, author = {BA Primack and KR Rice and A Shensa and MV Carroll and EJ Depenna and R Nakkash and TE Barnett}, title = {U.S. hookah tobacco smoking establishments advertised on the internet}, journal = {American Journal of Preventive Medicine}, pages = {150 -- 156}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22400/}, abstract = {Background: Establishments dedicated to hookah tobacco smoking recently have proliferated and helped introduce hookah use to U.S. communities. Purpose: To conduct a comprehensive, qualitative assessment of websites promoting these establishments. Methods: In June 2009, a systematic search process was initiated to access the universe of websites representing major hookah tobacco smoking establishments. In 20092010, codebook development followed an iterative paradigm involving three researchers and resulted in a final codebook consisting of 36 codes within eight categories. After two independent coders had nearly perfect agreement (Cohen's {\ensuremath{\kappa}} = 0.93) on double-coding the data in the first 20\% of sites, the coders divided the remaining sites and coded them independently. A thematic approach to the synthesis of findings and selection of exemplary quotations was used. Results: The search yielded a sample of 144 websites originating from states in all U.S. regions. Among the hookah establishments promoted on the websites, 79\% served food and 41\% served alcohol. Of the websites, none required age verification, {\ensuremath{<}}1\% included a tobacco-related warning on the first page, and 4\% included a warning on any page. Although mention of the word tobacco was relatively uncommon (appearing on the first page of only 26\% sites and on any page of 58\% of sites), the promotion of flavorings, pleasure, relaxation, product quality, and cultural and social aspects of hookah smoking was common. Conclusions: Websites may play a role in enhancing or propagating misinformation related to hookah tobacco smoking. Health education and policy measures may be valuable in countering this misinformation. {\copyright} 2012 American Journal of Preventive Medicine.} } @article{pittir22405, volume = {43}, number = {6}, month = {December}, author = {BA Primack and T Roberts and MJ Fine and FR Dillman Carpentier and KR Rice and AE Barnato}, title = {ER vs. ED: A comparison of televised and real-life emergency medicine}, journal = {Journal of Emergency Medicine}, pages = {1160 -- 1166}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22405/}, abstract = {Background: Although accurate health-related representations of medical situations on television can be valuable, inaccurate portrayals can engender misinformation. Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare sociodemographic and medical characteristics of patients depicted on television vs. actual United States (US) Emergency Department (ED) patients. Methods: Two independently working coders analyzed all 22 programs in one complete year of the popular "emergency room" drama ER. Inter-rater reliability was excellent, and all initial coding differences were easily adjudicated. Actual health data were obtained from the National Heath and Ambulatory Medical Care Survey from the same year. Chi-squared goodness-of-fit tests were used to compare televised vs. real distribution across key sociodemographic and medical variables. Results: Ages at the extremes of age (i.e., {$\leq$} 4 and ? 45 years) were less commonly represented on television compared with reality. Characters on television vs. reality were less commonly women (31.2\% vs. 52.9\%, respectively), African-American (12.7\% vs. 20.3\%), or Hispanic (7.1\% vs. 12.5\%). The two most common acuity categories for television were the extreme categories "non-urgent" and "emergent," whereas the two most common categories for reality were the middle categories "semi- urgent" and "urgent." Televised visits compared with reality were most commonly due to injury (63.5\% vs. 37.0\%, respectively), and televised injuries were less commonly work-related (4.2\% vs. 14.8\%, respectively). Conclusions: Comparison of represented and actual characteristics of ED patients may be valuable in helping us determine what types of patient misperceptions may exist, as well as what types of interventions may be beneficial in correcting that potential misinformation. {\copyright} 2012 Elsevier Inc.} } @article{pittir17821, volume = {134}, number = {29}, month = {July}, author = {A Prokofjevs and A Boussonni{\`e}re and L Li and H Bonin and E Lac{\^o}te and DP Curran and E Vedejs}, title = {Borenium ion catalyzed hydroboration of alkenes with N-heterocyclic carbene-boranes}, journal = {Journal of the American Chemical Society}, pages = {12281 -- 12288}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17821/}, abstract = {Treatment of alkenes such as 3-hexene, 3-octene, and 1-cyclohexyl-1-butene with the N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC)-derived borane 2 and catalytic HNTf 2 (Tf = trifluoromethanesulfonyl (CF3SO2)) effects hydroboration at room temperature. With 3-hexene, surprisingly facile migration of the boron atom from C(3) of the hexyl group to C(2) was observed over a time scale of minutes to hours. Oxidative workup gave a mixture of alcohols containing 2-hexanol as the major product. A similar preference for the C(2) alcohol was observed after oxidative workup of the 3-octene and 1-cyclohexyl-1-butene hydroborations. NHC-borenium cations (or functional equivalents) are postulated as the species that accomplish the hydroborations, and the C(2) selective migrations are attributed to the four-center interconversion of borenium cations with cationic NHC-borane-olefin {\ensuremath{\pi}}-complexes. {\copyright} 2012 American Chemical Society.} } @unpublished{pittir10740, month = {February}, title = {IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF FACTORS REQUIRED FOR REPRESSION OF THE YEAST SER3 GENE BY SRG1 INTERGENIC TRANSCRIPTION }, author = {Justin Pruneski}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Yeast, transcription, chromatin, nucleosome occupancy, non-coding DNA, gene expression}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10740/}, abstract = {Recent studies have shown that transcription is widespread in eukaryotic genomes occurring over noncoding regions (ncDNA) as well as protein-coding genes. This pervasive transcription can have profound effects on DNA-mediated processes such as the regulation of gene expression. In one well characterized example, repression of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae SER3 gene was shown to be dependent on transcription of SRG1 from ncDNA initiating within intergenic DNA 5? of SER3 and extending across the SER3 promoter region, preventing transcription factors from binding to the SER3 promoter. To understand the details of this transcription interference mechanism, I performed a genetic screen in yeast to identify factors required for SER3 repression. I identified 21 candidates including known regulators of SER3, factors involved in histone gene expression, and transcription elongation factors. The regulators of histone gene expression led us to discover a role for chromatin in SER3 repression. The combined activities of the Swi/Snf chromatin remodeling factor, the HMG-like factor Spt2, and the Spt6 and Spt16 histone chaperones allow SRG1 transcription to deposit and maintain nucleosomes over the SER3 promoter to prevent transcription factors from binding and activating SER3. Through investigations of the transcription elongation factors identified in the screen, I uncovered a role for the Paf1 transcription elongation complex in SER3 repression. I found that SER3 repression is primarily dependent on the Paf1 and Ctr9 subunits of this complex, with minor contributions by the Rtf1, Cdc73, and Leo1 subunits. Importantly, the defect in SER3 repression in strains lacking Paf1 subunits is not a result of reduced SRG1 transcription or reduced levels of known Paf1 complex-dependent histone modifications. Rather, we find that strains lacking subunits of the Paf1 complex exhibit reduced nucleosome occupancy and reduced recruitment of Spt16 and, to a lesser extent, Spt6 at the SER3 promoter, suggesting a novel role for the complex. Taken together, my work demonstrates that SER3 repression is mediated by nucleosome occupancy of the SER3 promoter, which is facilitated by the disassembly and assembly of nucleosomes by Spt6 and Spt16, which requires Spt2 and the Paf1 complex during SRG1 transcription. } } @unpublished{pittir15805, month = {October}, title = {VELOCITY MEASUREMENTS IN RESERVOIR ROCK SAMPLES FROM A LIMESTONE UNIT USING VARIOUS PORE FLUIDS, AND INTEGRATION WITH WELL LOGS AND SEISMIC DATA}, author = {Christopher Purcell}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Carbon Sequestration, Climate, Carbonate Reservoir, Rock Physics, Seismic Monitoring, Enhanced Oil Recovery}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15805/}, abstract = {One of the most promising methods proposed to mitigate excess global CO2 is carbon sequestration, a process in which CO2 is pressurized and injected into geologic formations. A technical challenge surrounding the geologic sequestration of CO2 is tracking the movement of the fluids pumped underground. Monitoring, verification and accounting activities related to CO2 storage are important for assuring that sequestered CO2 does not escape to the surface. Tracking this carbon dioxide can be considerably aided by reflection seismic-based detection methods. This thesis employs lab scale velocity measurements of core samples, under in situ reservoir pressure and temperature conditions, combined with multiple 3D reflection seismic surveys, to effectively track the movements of CO2 after injection. The National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) of the United States Department of Energy began to participate in research of an enhanced oil recovery project including the injection of CO2 deep into a reservoir structure, repeat reflection seismic surveys, collection of well logs, and rock physics analysis of sample core material. Our study is concentrated on a small area of this field around the injection site. At this site, hydrocarbons were previously moved via water injection. We obtained ultrasonic elastic wave velocity measurements that were conducted under several different saturation scenarios, including CO2 saturated samples, so a quantification of the conditions in different parts of the reservoir could be determined. This approach can help to characterize what is taking place inside the reservoir. Core-scale velocity measurements under in situ conditions allow us to predict changes in future well log or seismic surveys. The large amounts of CO2 accumulated over the past four decades in this reservoir give us a real world example of how an EOR site matures. Combining core scale, well log scale, and seismic scale measurements allows a better understanding of the various processes at work when CO2 is sequestered in a limestone reservoir.} } @incollection{pittir23127, author = {An{\'i}bal P{\'e}rez-Li{\~n}{\'a}n and N{\'e}stor Casta{\~n}eda Angarita}, series = {Routledge handbooks}, booktitle = {Routledge Handbook of Latin American Politics}, editor = {Peter R Kingstone and Deborah J Yashar}, address = {New York}, title = {Institutionalism}, publisher = {Routledge}, year = {2012}, pages = {396 -- 406}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/23127/} } @unpublished{pittir17010, month = {December}, title = {Molecular Mechanisms of Secreting Vesicle Biogenesis and Secretion in Chronic Degenerative Diseases}, author = {Xinxian Qiao}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Proinsulin, Trafficking, motif, Ins-C-GFP,insulin granule, INS-1, Beta cell}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17010/}, abstract = {Regulated trafficking and secretion of insulin by the {\ensuremath{\beta}} cell of the endocrine pancreas is critical to maintain our body energy homeostasis. Disruption of these processes typically leads to hyperglycemia and the complications of diabetes. Compared to methods using anti-insulin or C-peptide antibodies, the fluorescent protein labeling approaches provide many advantages in live-cell, real time format with dynamic spatial and temporal monitoring. Previous studies from our lab demonstrated that by fusing a GFP within the C peptide of mouse proinsulin (Ins-C-GFP) insulin secretory granule targeting, trafficking and exocytosis could be monitored in live cells. Confocal microscopy and western blot results showed over 85\% of the Ins-C-GFP can be targeted to insulin granules, with highly efficient proteolytic processing to mature insulin and C-GFP. Our present project aims to establish the minimum molecular determinants within human proinsulin required for its targeting to secretory granules. In order to do this, we designed a viral shuttle plasmid containing only the signal peptide, the first 5 residues of the B chain, followed by a monomeric GFP(B5), chemically synthesized with restriction sites for highly efficient and systematic chimeric and point mutagenesis. Confocal microscopy and 3-D reconstruction experiments revealed that the B5 vector was successfully expressed and nearly all of the fluorescent protein appeared within the ER(5 transfections; 72 cells), whereas the full-length hIns-C-emGFP vector efficiently targets insulin secretory granules. The results make it unlikely that the first five residues of the B chain are sufficient for human proinsulin targeting to secretory granules. The results also suggest that the middle of the C peptide is not necessary for human proinsulin targeting. We are presently characterizing a construct with the signal peptide alone without any insulin B chain residues (B0). By systematically adding back segments from hIns-C-emGFP to B5 or B0 and the following systematic point mutagenesis, we aim to establish the minimal segments and the precise residue(s) or motif(s) of human proinsulin required for targeting to secretory granules. } } @article{pittir29789, volume = {6}, number = {SUPPL3}, month = {December}, title = {Signaling network prediction by the Ontology Fingerprint enhanced Bayesian network}, author = {T Qin and LC Tsoi and KJ Sims and X Lu and WJ Zheng}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Systems Biology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29789/}, abstract = {Background: Despite large amounts of available genomic and proteomic data, predicting the structure and response of signaling networks is still a significant challenge. While statistical method such as Bayesian network has been explored to meet this challenge, employing existing biological knowledge for network prediction is difficult. The objective of this study is to develop a novel approach that integrates prior biological knowledge in the form of the Ontology Fingerprint to infer cell-type-specific signaling networks via data-driven Bayesian network learning; and to further use the trained model to predict cellular responses.Results: We applied our novel approach to address the Predictive Signaling Network Modeling challenge of the fourth (2009) Dialog for Reverse Engineering Assessment's and Methods (DREAM4) competition. The challenge results showed that our method accurately captured signal transduction of a network of protein kinases and phosphoproteins in that the predicted protein phosphorylation levels under all experimental conditions were highly correlated (R2 = 0.93) with the observed results. Based on the evaluation of the DREAM4 organizer, our team was ranked as one of the top five best performers in predicting network structure and protein phosphorylation activity under test conditions.Conclusions: Bayesian network can be used to simulate the propagation of signals in cellular systems. Incorporating the Ontology Fingerprint as prior biological knowledge allows us to efficiently infer concise signaling network structure and to accurately predict cellular responses. {\copyright} 2012 Qin et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir29872, volume = {2}, number = {1}, month = {June}, title = {PDLIM2 restricts Th1 and Th17 differentiation and prevents autoimmune disease}, author = {Z Qu and J Fu and H Ma and J Zhou and M Jin and MY Mapara and MJ Grusby and G Xiao}, year = {2012}, journal = {Cell and Bioscience}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29872/}, abstract = {Background: PDLIM2 is essential for the termination of the inflammatory transcription factors NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B and STAT but is dispensable for the development of immune cells and immune tissues/organs. Currently, it remains unknown whether and how PDLIM2 is involved in physiologic and pathogenic processes. Results: Here we report that naive PDLIM2 deficient CD4+ T cells were prone to differentiate into Th1 and Th17 cells. PDLIM2 deficiency, however, had no obvious effect on lineage commitment towards Th2 or Treg cells. Notably, PDLIM2 deficient mice exhibited increased susceptibility to experimental autoimmune encephalitis (EAE), a Th1 and/or Th17 cell-mediated inflammatory disease model of multiple sclerosis (MS). Mechanistic studies further indicate that PDLIM2 was required for restricting expression of Th1 and Th17 cytokines, which was in accordance with the role of PDLIM2 in the termination of NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B and STAT activation.Conclusion: These findings suggest that PDLIM2 is a key modulator of T-cell-mediated immune responses that may be targeted for the therapy of human autoimmune diseases. {\copyright} 2012 Qu et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir11842, month = {October}, title = {RANK-BASED TEMPO-SPATIAL CLUSTERING: A FRAMEWORK FOR RAPID OUTBREAK DETECTION USING SINGLE OR MULTIPLE DATA STREAMS}, author = {Jialan Que}, year = {2012}, keywords = {spatial scan, disease surveillance, algorithm, disease outbreak detection}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11842/}, abstract = {In the recent decades, algorithms for disease outbreak detection have become one of the main interests of public health practitioners to identify and localize an outbreak as early as possible in order to warrant further public health response before a pandemic develops. Today?s increased threat of biological warfare and terrorism provide an even stronger impetus to develop methods for outbreak detection based on symptoms as well as definitive laboratory diagnoses. In this dissertation work, I explore the problems of rapid disease outbreak detection using both spatial and temporal information. I develop a framework of non-parameterized algorithms which search for patterns of disease outbreak in spatial sub-regions of the monitored region within a certain period. Compared to the current existing spatial or tempo-spatial algorithm, the algorithms in this framework provide a methodology for fast searching of either univariate data set or multivariate data set. It first measures which study area is more likely to have an outbreak occurring given the baseline data and currently observed data. Then it applies a greedy searching mechanism to look for clusters with high posterior probabilities given the risk measurement for each unit area as heuristic. I also explore the performance of the proposed algorithms. From the perspective of predictive modeling, I adopt a Gamma-Poisson (GP) model to compute the probability of having an outbreak in each cluster when analyzing univariate data. I build a multinomial generalized Dirichlet (MGD) model to identify outbreak clusters from multivariate data which include the OTC data streams collected by the national retail data monitor (NRDM) and the ED data streams collected by the RODS system. Key contributions of this dissertation include 1) it introduces a rank-based tempo-spatial clustering algorithm, RSC, by utilizing greedy searching and Bayesian GP model for disease outbreak detection with comparable detection timeliness, cluster positive prediction value (PPV) and improved running time; 2) it proposes a multivariate extension of RSC (MRSC) which applies MGD model. The evaluation demonstrated the advantage that MGD model can effectively suppress the false alarms caused by elevated signals that are non-disease relevant and occur in all the monitored data streams. } } @unpublished{pittir11782, month = {April}, title = {Intracellular Signaling Mechanisms of Resistance to EGFR-Targeting Agents}, author = {Kelly M. Quesnelle}, year = {2012}, keywords = {EGFR, HER2, cetuximab, erlotinib, afatinib, animal models}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11782/}, abstract = {The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is widely expressed in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) and activates many growth and survival pathways within tumor cells. EGFR-targeting agents are only modestly effective in treating HNSCC, however, and a consistent mechanism of resistance has not been identified, in part, due to the paucity of preclinical models. This dissertation focuses on generating EGFR-inhibitor resistant preclinical models in order to identify biomarkers that may be predictive of response to these agents. We have assessed the response of a panel of HNSCC cell lines to the EGFR inhibitors erlotinib and cetuximab to determine their relevance as models of resistance to these agents. We defined a narrow range of response to erlotinib in HNSCC cells in vitro. We attempted to generate models of cetuximab resistance in cell line-derived xenografts and heterotopic tumorgrafts directly from primary HNSCC patient tumors. Our studies in HNSCC suggest that heterotopic xenografts are more representative of patient response to cetuximab than cell-line derived xenografts, although we did establish a model of cetuximab resistance from bladder cancer cell line-derived xenografts. A candidate-based approach was used to examine the role of HER2, HER3, and c-Met on mediating EGFR inhibitor resistance. We identified increased phosphorylation of a carboxyl-terminal fragment of HER2 (611-CTF) in cetuximab-resistant cells. Afatinib, an irreversible kinase inhibitor targeting EGFR and HER2, successfully restored cetuximab sensitivity in vitro. When afatinib was combined with cetuximab in vivo, we observed an additive growth inhibitory effect in cetuximab-resistant xenografts. We also show that while c-Met activity is not sufficient to alter cellular response to erlotinib, concomitant inhibition of c-Met and EGFR is required for the deactivation of MAPK in the presence of stimulatory ligands. These data support the proposed role for co-targeting c-Met with EGFR in the treatment of HNSCC. The studies presented here are significant because, in addition to suggesting that 611-CTF may be a novel biomarker for cetuximab resistance, they provide a thorough assessment of modeling EGFR inhibitor resistance in HNSCC and suggest heterotopic tumorgrafts as a plausible new model for examining cetuximab resistance in future studies.} } @unpublished{pittir10466, month = {January}, title = {?Everybody Around Here is from Some Place Else?: News Frames and Hegemonic Discourses in the Immigration Debates in the United States, 2006 and 2010}, author = {Sharon Quinsaat}, year = {2012}, keywords = {immigration, discourse, media, United States, news coverage}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10466/}, abstract = {In 2006, the United States House of Representatives introduced a bill that seeks to criminalize unauthorized immigrants, subjecting them to detention and deportation. Four years later, the Arizona State Legislature passed a similar measure, which classifies an alien?s presence in Arizona without the possession of proper immigration documents as a state misdemeanor. Both pieces of legislation entered the public sphere and stimulated debates on immigration, as cleavages within and among the Democrats and Republicans surfaced and opposition turned into highly publicized events. The bills crystallized the various hegemonic and contested discourses on immigration in American society. Using content analysis of The New York Times and USA Today, this study investigates the framing of immigration in two policy debates: on the Border Protection, Anti-terrorism, and Illegal Immigration Control Act of 2005 (H.R. 4437) in 2006 and on the Support Our Law Enforcement and Safe Neighborhoods Act or Arizona Senate Bill (S.B.) 1070 in 2010. It draws on the literature on media discourses, news frames, and framing process in order to measure the content and frequency of media frames; explain the struggle of different and political actors over meaning in these frames; and assess the durability, resilience, and adaptability of media frames on similar policy issues but different periods.} } @unpublished{pittir26079, booktitle = {Jornadas de estudios de Ame?rica Latina y el Caribe, Facultad de Sociales, UBA}, title = {Las m{\'u}ltiples y extra{\~n}as despedidas de Jos{\'e} Liboy Erba}, author = {Gustavo Quintero}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Literatura, Puertorrique{\~n}a, Jos{\'e}, Liboy, Erba}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/26079/}, abstract = {El presente trabajo intenta hacer un balance de la obra del autor puertorrique{\~n}o Jos{\'e} ?Pepe? Liboy Erba. En nuestro recorrido ubicaremos al escritor dentro del sistema literario de la isla, proponiendo a Liboy como uno de los at{\'i}picos de la literatura reciente producida en el territorio. Luego revisaremos algunas de las caracter{\'i}sticas m{\'a}s sobresalientes de su po{\'e}tica, para sugerir que la escritura de Liboy es af{\'i}n, m{\'a}s que a alguna tradici{\'o}n literaria en particular, a la est{\'e}tica cinematogr{\'a}fica de David Lynch. Hablamos entonces de una po{\'e}tica de lo raro, una cotidianidad alucinatoria que deforma y se asemeja a una l{\'o}gica del ensue{\~n}o o la pesadilla. Trazaremos algunos ejemplos que apuntan hacia el ocultamiento del sentido en la obra, y otra serie de t{\'e}cnicas, como la elipsis narrativa, la oralidad, las permutaciones de los cuentos y el inacabamiento, que continuamente refuerzan la idea de una escritura inestable, con ejes deformantes y grotescos. En otras palabras, intentaremos presentar su escritura como un modelo que establece una relaci{\'o}n problem{\'a}tica con la tradici{\'o}n literaria y los temas recurrentes en el plano intelectual puertorrique{\~n}o.} } @inproceedings{pittir26078, booktitle = {VIII Congreso Internacional de Teor{\'i}a y Cr{\'i}tica Literaria Orbis Tertius}, title = {Nunca terminar de narrar: Los l{\'i}mites de la obra en Juan Jos{\'e} Saer}, author = {Gustavo Quintero}, address = {Argentina}, publisher = {Facultad de Humanidades y Ciencias de la Educaci{\'o}n Universidad Nacional de La Plata}, year = {2012}, journal = {Actas de VIII Congreso Internacional de Teor{\'i}a y Cr{\'i}tica Literaria Orbis Tertius}, keywords = {Juan, Jos{\'e}, Saer, Literatura, Argentina, T{\'e}cnicas, narrativas, Incipits, y, Excipits, La, paradoja, de, Zenon.}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/26078/}, abstract = {El siguiente trabajo tiene como prop{\'o}sito revisar algunos aspectos de la escritura de Juan Jos{\'e} Saer a partir de dos de sus l{\'i}mites: el incipit y el excipit de la obra, es decir, el libro de cuentos En la zona y la novela La grande. Estos puntos estrat{\'e}gicos de la pr{\'a}ctica de la escritura nos podr{\'i}an ayudar a echar luz sobre varias de las preocupaciones filos{\'o}ficas del autor, adem{\'a}s de algunos m{\'e}todos utilizados por el santafesino para la confecci{\'o}n de su universo literario. En nuestro camino repasaremos t{\'e}rminos claves del proyecto saereano como la noci{\'o}n de obra y los mecanismos de inclusi{\'o}n y expansi{\'o}n del proyecto que permiten la perpetuaci{\'o}n potencialmente eterna de la narraci{\'o}n.} } @article{pittir14169, volume = {7}, number = {4}, month = {April}, title = {Global methylation patterns in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis}, author = {EI Rabinovich and MG Kapetanaki and I Steinfeld and KF Gibson and KV Pandit and G Yu and Z Yakhini and N Kaminski}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14169/}, abstract = {Background: Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) is characterized by profound changes in the lung phenotype including excessive extracellular matrix deposition, myofibroblast foci, alveolar epithelial cell hyperplasia and extensive remodeling. The role of epigenetic changes in determining the lung phenotype in IPF is unknown. In this study we determine whether IPF lungs exhibit an altered global methylation profile. Methodology/Principal Findings: Immunoprecipitated methylated DNA from 12 IPF lungs, 10 lung adenocarcinomas and 10 normal histology lungs was hybridized to Agilent human CpG Islands Microarrays and data analysis was performed using BRB-Array Tools and DAVID Bioinformatics Resources software packages. Array results were validated using the EpiTYPER MassARRAY platform for 3 CpG islands. 625 CpG islands were differentially methylated between IPF and control lungs with an estimated False Discovery Rate less than 5\%. The genes associated with the differentially methylated CpG islands are involved in regulation of apoptosis, morphogenesis and cellular biosynthetic processes. The expression of three genes (STK17B, STK3 and HIST1H2AH) with hypomethylated promoters was increased in IPF lungs. Comparison of IPF methylation patterns to lung cancer or control samples, revealed that IPF lungs display an intermediate methylation profile, partly similar to lung cancer and partly similar to control with 402 differentially methylated CpG islands overlapping between IPF and cancer. Despite their similarity to cancer, IPF lungs did not exhibit hypomethylation of long interspersed nuclear element 1 (LINE-1) retrotransposon while lung cancer samples did, suggesting that the global hypomethylation observed in cancer was not typical of IPF. Conclusions/Significance: Our results provide evidence that epigenetic changes in IPF are widespread and potentially important. The partial similarity to cancer may signify similar pathogenetic mechanisms while the differences constitute IPF or cancer specific changes. Elucidating the role of these specific changes will potentially allow better understanding of the pathogenesis of IPF. {\copyright} 2012 Rabinovich et al.} } @article{pittir29956, volume = {3}, number = {1}, month = {March}, title = {Stem cell- and growth factor-based regenerative therapies for avascular necrosis of the femoral head}, author = {L Rackwitz and L Eden and S Reppenhagen and JC Reichert and F Jakob and H Walles and O Pullig and RS Tuan and M Rudert and U N{\"o}th}, year = {2012}, journal = {Stem Cell Research and Therapy}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29956/}, abstract = {Avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head is a debilitating disease of multifactorial genesis, predominately affects young patients, and often leads to the development of secondary osteoarthritis. The evolving field of regenerative medicine offers promising treatment strategies using cells, biomaterial scaffolds, and bioactive factors, which might improve clinical outcome. Early stages of AVN with preserved structural integrity of the subchondral plate are accessible to retrograde surgical procedures, such as core decompression to reduce the intraosseous pressure and to induce bone remodeling. The additive application of concentrated bone marrow aspirates, ex vivo expanded mesenchymal stem cells, and osteogenic or angiogenic growth factors (or both) holds great potential to improve bone regeneration. In contrast, advanced stages of AVN with collapsed subchondral bone require an osteochondral reconstruction to preserve the physiological joint function. Analogously to strategies for osteochondral reconstruction in the knee, anterograde surgical techniques, such as osteochondral transplantation (mosaicplasty), matrix-based autologous chondrocyte implantation, or the use of acellular scaffolds alone, might preserve joint function and reduce the need for hip replacement. This review summarizes recent experimental accomplishments and initial clinical findings in the field of regenerative medicine which apply cells, growth factors, and matrices to address the clinical problem of AVN. {\copyright} 2012 BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir29936, volume = {13}, number = {1}, month = {December}, author = {Revathi Rajkumar and John C Sembrat and Barbara McDonough and Christine E Seidman and Ferhaan Ahmad}, title = {Functional effects of the TMEM43 Ser358Leu mutation in the pathogenesis of arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy}, publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC}, journal = {BMC Medical Genetics}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29936/}, abstract = {{\ensuremath{<}}jats:title{\ensuremath{>}}Abstract{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:title{\ensuremath{>}} {\ensuremath{<}}jats:sec{\ensuremath{>}} {\ensuremath{<}}jats:title{\ensuremath{>}}Background{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:title{\ensuremath{>}} {\ensuremath{<}}jats:p{\ensuremath{>}}The Ser358Leu mutation in {\ensuremath{<}}jats:italic{\ensuremath{>}}TMEM43{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:italic{\ensuremath{>}}, encoding an inner nuclear membrane protein, has been implicated in arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC). The pathogenetic mechanisms of this mutation are poorly understood.{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:p{\ensuremath{>}} {\ensuremath{<}}/jats:sec{\ensuremath{>}} {\ensuremath{<}}jats:sec{\ensuremath{>}} {\ensuremath{<}}jats:title{\ensuremath{>}}Methods{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:title{\ensuremath{>}} {\ensuremath{<}}jats:p{\ensuremath{>}}To determine the frequency of {\ensuremath{<}}jats:italic{\ensuremath{>}}TMEM43{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:italic{\ensuremath{>}} mutations as a cause of ARVC, we screened 11 ARVC families for mutations in {\ensuremath{<}}jats:italic{\ensuremath{>}}TMEM43{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:italic{\ensuremath{>}} and five desmosomal genes previously implicated in the disease. Functional studies were performed in COS-7 cells transfected with wildtype, mutant, and 1:2 wildtype:mutant {\ensuremath{<}}jats:italic{\ensuremath{>}}TMEM43{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:italic{\ensuremath{>}} to determine the effect of the Ser358Leu mutation on the stability and cellular localization of TMEM43 and other nuclear envelope and desmosomal proteins, assessed by solubility assays and immunofluorescence imaging. mRNA expression was assessed of genes potentially affected by dysfunction of the nuclear lamina.{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:p{\ensuremath{>}} {\ensuremath{<}}/jats:sec{\ensuremath{>}} {\ensuremath{<}}jats:sec{\ensuremath{>}} {\ensuremath{<}}jats:title{\ensuremath{>}}Results{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:title{\ensuremath{>}} {\ensuremath{<}}jats:p{\ensuremath{>}}Three novel mutations in previously documented desmosomal genes, but no mutations in {\ensuremath{<}}jats:italic{\ensuremath{>}}TMEM43{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:italic{\ensuremath{>}}, were identified. COS-7 cells transfected with mutant {\ensuremath{<}}jats:italic{\ensuremath{>}}TMEM43{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:italic{\ensuremath{>}} exhibited no change in desmosomal stability. Stability and nuclear membrane localization of mutant TMEM43 and of lamin B and emerin were normal. Mutant {\ensuremath{<}}jats:italic{\ensuremath{>}}TMEM43{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:italic{\ensuremath{>}} did not alter the expression of genes located on chromosome 13, previously implicated in nuclear envelope protein mutations leading to skeletal muscular dystrophies.{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:p{\ensuremath{>}} {\ensuremath{<}}/jats:sec{\ensuremath{>}} {\ensuremath{<}}jats:sec{\ensuremath{>}} {\ensuremath{<}}jats:title{\ensuremath{>}}Conclusions{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:title{\ensuremath{>}} {\ensuremath{<}}jats:p{\ensuremath{>}}Mutant {\ensuremath{<}}jats:italic{\ensuremath{>}}TMEM43{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:italic{\ensuremath{>}} exhibits normal cellular localization and does not disrupt integrity and localization of other nuclear envelope and desmosomal proteins. The pathogenetic role of {\ensuremath{<}}jats:italic{\ensuremath{>}}TMEM43{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:italic{\ensuremath{>}} mutations in ARVC remains uncertain.{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:p{\ensuremath{>}} {\ensuremath{<}}/jats:sec{\ensuremath{>}}} } @unpublished{pittir18103, month = {April}, title = {A creative arts approach to learning with youth about bullying}, school = {University of Pittsburgh}, author = {Kimberly Rak}, publisher = {University of Pittsburgh}, year = {2012}, keywords = {CBPR, Youth, Visual, Voices, Bullying}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18103/}, abstract = {Bullying is a common experience for youth in the United States with 70-75\% of youth reporting any experience of bullying. There are negative psychological, social, and health outcomes for all involved in bullying (victims, bullies, and victim-bullies) with implications that may last into adulthood. This research explored how youth who attended an after-school program in Pittsburgh, PA, artistically depicted their experiences and perceptions of bullying. Findings include descriptions of bullying, when and where bullying occurs, and strategies for addressing and preventing bullying. Contradictions embedded in youths? constructions of bullying highlight the difficulties of current efforts to prevent bullying and suggest ways to productively reorient interventions and policies. Girls and boys described gender-specific differences in experiences with bullying, social influences, and intervention opportunities. Ten youth participated in six arts-based sessions that took place over the course of two months. Two small discussion groups, with a sub sample of the original participants, were held three months following the conclusion of the art sessions. The arts-based sessions involved the youth participants painting, writing, and drawing about different dimensions of bulling such as where bullying takes place and ideas for addressing bullying. At the end of each session the youth collectively shared their art and discussed the messages and meanings depicted. The textual and material data were analyzed for thematic codes. Bullying is fundamentally about social relations and power, through the marking of ?insider? and ?outsider? social status is generated and maintained. However, power and social relations are shifting and hence framing bullying as static and bounded produces inconsistencies in youths? articulations of bullying. Foregrounding the social and power dynamics of bullying would translate into policies and interventions that foster a culture of cooperation, inclusiveness, respect for diversity, and diffusing authoritarianism and competitiveness. The public health significance includes the value of incorporating youth perspectives in research and interventions, use of an innovative participatory approach that is developmentally appropriate for working with youths, a youth centered understanding of bullying and the effectiveness of current prevention efforts, and suggestions for future research and practice related to bullying.} } @unpublished{pittir10638, month = {January}, title = {SOLUBILITIES AND MASS TRANSFER COEFFICIENTS OF GASES IN HEAVY SYNTHETIC HYDROCARBON LIQUIDS}, author = {Yeldos Rakymkul}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Solubility, mass transfer, Fischer-Tropsch, Gas-Inducing Reactor}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10638/}, abstract = {The equilibrium gas solubility (C*) and the volumetric liquid-side mass transfer coefficient (kLa) of N2, He, H2 and CO and their mixtures were measured in two liquids (C12-C13 paraffins mixture and Sasol molten reactor wax) using a 4-liter agitated reactor operating in the gas-inducing mode under typical Fischer-Tropsch conditions. The experimental C* and kLa values were obtained in wide ranges of pressure (4-45 bar), temperature (300-500 K), mixing speed (800-1400 RPM), alumina particles concentration (0-20 vol\%) and gas composition (0.25, 0.5, 0.75 mole fraction of He in N2 and H2 in CO). Within these experimental conditions, the following results were obtained: ? The solubilities of the four gases in the two liquids at constant temperature followed the order C*CO {\ensuremath{>}} C*N2 {\ensuremath{>}} C*H2 {\ensuremath{>}} C*He and obeyed Henry?s Law as their values linearly increased with pressure up to 30 bar. The solubilities of the four gases in both liquids at constant pressure increased with temperature; and an Arrhenius-type equation was used to model the dependency of their Henry?s Law constants on the temperature. The solubilities of the four gases were greater in the paraffins mixture than those in the molten reactor wax. The solubility and diffusivity values showed that He and N2 could be used as surrogates for H2 and CO, respectively. ? The mass transfer coefficients of the four gases each as a single-component or in gaseous mixtures in the two liquids increased with mixing speed, pressure and temperature at constant solid concentration. At constant mixing speed, pressure and temperature, kLa values of the four gases in the two liquids decreased with increasing solid concentration above 10 vol\%. Also, kLa values for H2 were greater than those of CO and kLa values for He were greater than of N2 in the two liquids. Again, kLa values showed that He and N2 could be used as surrogates for H2 and CO, respectively. ? A new empirical relationship was developed to predict kLa of each individual component in a gaseous mixture in liquids/slurries, if the overall kLa of this gas mixture and the diffusivities and solubilities of its components in those liquids/slurries were known. } } @unpublished{pittir13534, month = {August}, title = {Integration of HSP90 inhibition in combinational immunotherapies targeting receptor tyrosine kinase EphA2}, author = {Aparna Rao}, year = {2012}, keywords = {HSP90, immunotherapy, EphA2, 17-DMAG}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13534/}, abstract = {?Limitations in CD8+ T cell recognition of tumor cells due to defects in their antigen processing machinery or the selection of variants expressing low or absent levels of cognate tumor antigens have been previously identified as impediments to effective cancer immunotherapy. Hence, treatment regimens that coordinately promote enhanced activation of anti-tumor CD8+ T cells, improved delivery of such effector cells into tumor sites, and augmented recognition of tumor or tumor-associated stromal cells by therapeutic CD8+ T cells, would be expected to yield greater clinical benefit. Using an MCA205 sarcoma model, I show that in vitro treatment of tumor cells with the HSP90 inhibitor 17-DMAG results in the transient (proteasome-dependent) degradation of the HSP90 client protein EphA2 and the subsequent increased recognition of tumor cells by Type-1 anti-EphA2 CD8+ T cells. In vivo administration of 17-DMAG to tumor-bearing mice led to: i.) slowed tumor growth; ii.) enhanced/prolonged recognition of tumor cells by anti-EphA2 CD8+ T cells; iii.) reduced levels of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) and regulatory T cells (Treg) in the tumor microenvironment (TME); and iv.) activation of tumor-associated vascular endothelial cells in association with elevated levels of Type-1 tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL). When combined with EphA2-specific active vaccination or the adoptive transfer of EphA2-specific CD8+ T cells, 17-DMAG cotreatment yielded a superior tumor therapeutic regimen that was capable of rendering animals free of disease.} } @unpublished{pittir12201, month = {June}, title = {College Participant Recruitment Through Facebook Ads: Is Anybody Listening?}, author = {Jonathan Raviotta}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Facebook participant recruitment college men 18-25 year old men HPV}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12201/}, abstract = {To combat cervical cancer, the United States public health policy has advocated Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination for all adolescent females. This female-only HPV vaccination campaign has failed to reach sufficiently protective uptake levels. New research describing strong associations between HPV and cancers afflicting both sexes, revised cost-effectiveness models, and the FDA licensure of a vaccine for men, has led to the inclusion of males into the U.S. HPV vaccination campaign. Including men in the ongoing campaign has raised new research questions and logistical challenges. Among those, is the challenge of how to effectively recruit men into HPV vaccine trials. Communication about HPV infection has been strongly linked with female cancers and suffers from sexual stigmatization. This study compared conventional recruitment of 18-25 year old men into a clinical HPV vaccination trial with recruitment through Facebook Ads?. Facebook Ads? produced 20\% of the study sample. Of the 44 men who first heard about the study through social sites, only 13 of these men also heard about the study through a conventional recruitment strategy, suggesting that conventional recruitment methods can be supplemented by social media recruitment. A larger than expected proportion of Facebook recruits were homosexual or bisexual (p=.02) and were also more active in social media (p=.02) than expected. The findings of this investigation suggest that Facebook and other social platforms could be a useful public health communication and recruitment tool for interventions or studies targeting 18-25 year old men, especially those who are homosexual or bisexual.} } @unpublished{pittir11770, month = {July}, title = {"The Long-Defended Gate": Juvenilia, the Real Child, and the Aesthetics of Innocence, 1858-1939}, author = {Anna Redcay}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Marjory Fleming, St. Nicholas, Daisy Ashford, Opal Whiteley, R. L. Stevenson, Patience Abbe}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11770/}, abstract = {Scholars frequently protest against reference to the real child in relation to adult-authored children?s literature. My dissertation exposes the fundamental flaw in extending this injunction to the literary production of real children. By recovering the wildly popular, critically acclaimed and bestselling juvenilia of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, I contend that child-authored texts make manifest individual children?s absorption and manipulation of culture. Although critics such as Beverly Lyon Clark aptly note a growing bifurcation of children?s and adult?s literature at the turn of the century, I argue that adult and child authors alike participated in the construction of the ?real child? as a trope of literary representation. In highlighting the centrality of the child?s individualistic voice to both juvenilia?s success and canonical literature?s innovations, however, I resist literary-historical narratives that characterize the era of the Cult of the Child as one straightforwardly invested in childhood innocence. Instead, I claim that authors such as Henry James, Robert Louis Stevenson, and Mark Twain joined the contemporary critics of child writers such as Marjory Fleming and Opal Whiteley in promoting a highly paradoxical aesthetics of innocence integral to the pursuit of narrative authenticity. I illustrate how the co-existence of idealized notions and pragmatic concerns regarding children in this time rendered the ?long-defended gate? of childhood a prized but flexible boundary between innocence and experience. In keeping with such developments as the play movement, child study, and child-centered education, adults not only perceived children?s precocious talents as directly dependent upon their naivet{\'e}, but also went to great lengths to school children in this natural state. By reading juvenilia as children?s literature, however, I offer an interpretative methodology that resists Romantic binaries positing adults? and children?s knowledge as distinctive from one another. Far from supporting Jacqueline Rose?s thesis that literature ?colonizes? children, I assert that juvenilia marketed to young readers reveal the ways in which real children may actively engage with constructions of innocence and overcome the ?impossible? power imbalance between children?s literature and children.} } @unpublished{pittir10799, month = {January}, title = {American foreign policy in Latin America (1945-1975): the containment policy and the perceptions of ?threat? }, author = {Benjamin A. Reed}, year = {2012}, keywords = {U.S. Foreign Policy: Containment Policy}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10799/}, abstract = {This paper analyzes the U.S. foreign policy of containment as it was applied to Latin and South America, from 1945 through the 1970s, which U.S. policy makers employed to prevent the spread of ?communism.? The containment policy defines communism as the most significant threat to U.S. interests: a threat that directed policy theory and catalyzed policy action. That is, when a situation was deemed a ?communist threat,? U.S. policy makers responded through a variety of options including, but not limited to, the use of covert intervention (such as the orchestration of military coups to unseat supposed communist leaders), of economic reprisals (such as the removal of U.S. economic aid to a given country), and even of military force. But, through my study of the containment policy, I realize that the way U.S. policy makers characterized a ?communist threat? was not always consistent, for they did not always react to similar circumstances in similar ways. I contend that how U.S. policy makers viewed world events, that is, how they judged and perceived those events (for example, land reform in a given country) was not always congruent from situation to situation. In this light, the purpose of this paper, then, is to explain why this discrepancy in perception occurred, and therefore to explain the evolution of American foreign policy and action from the late 1940s through the early 1970s. First, I contend that U.S. policy perspective (a term I coined to describe how U.S. policy makers judged world events) and U.S. foreign policy evolved from 1945 through the 1970s, causing U.S. policy makers to define threats in different ways across time. In layman?s terms, U.S. policy makers were not as anti-communist by the 1970s, which caused them to be less critical, and perhaps more practical, when judging a situation to be a ?communist threat.? Second, I will argue that whether or not a regime was democratic or dictatorial was significant, in that U.S. policy makers favored dictatorial regimes as the best defense against ?communist threats? in the Western hemisphere. As a result, U.S. policy makers were more sensitive to ?communist threats? in democratic regimes and more likely to investigate such regimes with greater scrutiny for the possibility of these threats. } } @unpublished{pittir11856, month = {June}, title = {Between a city divided and an oasis of peace: narratives of identity and belonging in the Israeli/Palestinian conflict}, author = {Eric Reidy}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Israel, Palestine, Conflict, Conflict Resolution, Third Spaces, Hebron, Neve Shalom/Wahat al-Salam, Narratives, Identity, Belonging}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11856/}, abstract = {Hebron and Neve Shalom/Wahat al-Salam present a study in contrasts within the Israeli/Palestinian conflict. Hebron is, perhaps, the most deeply divided city in the conflict. It is the only Palestinian city in the West Bank with Jewish settlers living in its center and the site of constant military presence and frequent hostilities. NSWS, on the other hand, is the only intentionally shared village between Palestinians and Israelis within Israel. Additionally, the Jewish settlement of Hebron and establishment of NSWS have oddly parallel histories stemming from distinct reactions to the changing environment within Israel in the aftermath of the June 1967 War, and both communities have produced texts that seek to explain and persuade a broader public of the merits and importance of their positions and activities through the articulation of collective narratives. The narratives produced by each community articulate starkly dissimilar approaches to the construction of identity and belonging. The different approaches of the two communities hold up mirrors, from opposite positions, to the construction of identity and belonging within Israeli society and its connection to the perpetuation of the conflict. Additionally, the absence of self-produced narratives on the part of the Palestinian community of Hebron illuminates the historic construction of Palestinians as an illegitimate people incapable of presenting itself to the outside world without the legitimating mediation of a ?reliable? third-party. Finally, the contrast between the construction of identity and belonging by the Jewish settlers of Hebron and the community of NSWS, as well as NSWS?s activities in the field of intergroup encounter work, point to the possibility of creating third spaces within the setting of the conflict for seemingly mutually exclusive sides to negotiate new possibilities of existence outside the essentialized and exclusionary confines of the current paradigm. } } @article{pittir29916, volume = {9}, month = {January}, title = {Major trends in mobility technology research and development: overview of the results of the NSF-WTEC European study.}, author = {DJ Reinkensmeyer and P Bonato and ML Boninger and L Chan and RE Cowan and BJ Fregly and MM Rodgers}, year = {2012}, pages = {22 -- ?}, journal = {Journal of neuroengineering and rehabilitation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29916/}, abstract = {Mobility technologies, including wheelchairs, prostheses, joint replacements, assistive devices, and therapeutic exercise equipment help millions of people participate in desired life activities. Yet, these technologies are not yet fully transformative because many desired activities cannot be pursued or are difficult to pursue for the millions of individuals with mobility related impairments. This WTEC study, initiated and funded by the National Science Foundation, was designed to gather information on European innovations and trends in technology that might lead to greater mobility for a wider range of people. What might these transformative technologies be and how might they arise? Based on visits to leading mobility technology research labs in western Europe, the WTEC panel identified eight major trends in mobility technology research. This commentary summarizes these trends, which are then described in detail in companion papers appearing in this special issue.} } @article{pittir14763, volume = {9}, number = {1}, month = {April}, title = {Technologies and combination therapies for enhancing movement training for people with a disability}, author = {DJ Reinkensmeyer and ML Boninger}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14763/}, abstract = {There has been a dramatic increase over the last decade in research on technologies for enhancing movement training and exercise for people with a disability. This paper reviews some of the recent developments in this area, using examples from a National Science Foundation initiated study of mobility research projects in Europe to illustrate important themes and key directions for future research. This paper also reviews several recent studies aimed at combining movement training with plasticity or regeneration therapies, again drawing in part from European research examples. Such combination therapies will likely involve complex interactions with motor training that must be understood in order to achieve the goal of eliminating severe motor impairment. {\copyright} 2012 Reinkensmeyer and Boninger; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir19063, volume = {65}, number = {4}, month = {October}, author = {M Ren and HA Karimi}, title = {Movement pattern recognition assisted map matching for pedestrian/ wheelchair navigation}, journal = {Journal of Navigation}, pages = {617 -- 633}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19063/}, abstract = {Today's mobile technology features several sensors that when integrated can provide ubiquitous navigation assistance to pedestrians including wheelchair users. Common sensors found in most smartphones are Global Positioning System (GPS), accelerometer, and compass. In this paper, a user's movement pattern recognition algorithm to improve map matching efficiency and accuracy in pedestrian/wheelchair navigation systems/services is discussed. The algorithm integrates GPS positions, orientation data from compass, and movement states recognized from accelerometer data in a client/server architecture. The algorithm is tested in an Android mobile phone, and the results show that the proposed map matching algorithm is efficient and provides good accuracy. {\copyright} 2012 The Royal Institute of Navigation.} } @article{pittir19064, volume = {16}, number = {3}, month = {July}, author = {M Ren and HA Karimi}, title = {A fuzzy logic map matching for wheelchair navigation}, journal = {GPS Solutions}, pages = {273 -- 282}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19064/}, abstract = {Global Positioning System (GPS) plays a central role in solving the location-based needs of wheelchair users and efficient route guidance. An essential process in wheelchair navigation is matching the position obtained from GPS or other sensors on a sidewalk network. This process of map matching in turn assists in making decisions under uncertainty. However, GPS-based wheelchair navigation systems have difficulties in tracking wheelchairs in urban areas due to poor satellite availability. To overcome this, a fuzzy logic-based algorithm is applied to effectively perform matching wheelchair movements on sidewalks. Fuzzy logic, based on fuzzy reasoning concepts, in many circumstances can take noisy and imprecise input to yield numerically accurate output. Experiments on a university campus validate it practicable. {\copyright} 2011 Springer-Verlag.} } @unpublished{pittir11835, month = {May}, title = {WHY ARE THE FLOWERS SO ?RED?: SCHOLARSHIP AND POLICY CHANGES ON HUA?ER (FLOWER SONGS) IN NORTHWEST CHINA}, author = {Meng Ren}, year = {2012}, keywords = {hua'er, hua'er studies, policy changes, the State, Northwest China}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11835/}, abstract = {Hua?er, literally ?flowers,? is a folk-song tradition in Northwest China named after the custom of comparing female beauty to flowers in the lyrics with most songs written about love and sex. Shared by people of over nine different ethnic groups in the northwestern region{--}Han, Hui, Tibetan, Bao?an, Dongxiang, Sala, Tu, Yugu, and Mongol{--}hua?er is recognized by the people that practice or research on it as an important artistic medium of cultural expression and communication. The ups and downs of hua?er, influenced by various socio-political climates since the establishment of the People?s Republic of China (PRC) in 1949, are directly embodied in the development of the hua?er scholarship in the Northwest of China. This thesis highlights the development of hua?er studies and the changing cultural policies on the hua?er tradition in the PRC since 1949; more specifically, it investigates how the scholarship on hua?er is influenced by social changes and political upheavals in China, and why a musical tradition (which was once forbidden in the 1960s and 1970s) has become a national cultural heritage. The paper focuses on how the State (the Chinese government) acts on behalf of its own interests by instituting policies that serve the government?s sovereignty and well-being.} } @unpublished{pittir11787, month = {May}, title = {Advanced Map Matching Technologies and Techniques for Pedestrian/Wheelchair Navigation}, author = {Ming Ren}, year = {2012}, keywords = {map matching, pedestrian/wheelchair navigation, GPS, geo-positioning, multi-sensor integration, computer vision}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11787/}, abstract = {Due to the constantly increasing technical advantages of mobile devices (such as smartphones), pedestrian/wheelchair navigation recently has achieved a high level of interest as one of smartphones? potential mobile applications. While vehicle navigation systems have already reached a certain level of maturity, pedestrian/wheelchair navigation services are still in their infancy. By comparing vehicle navigation systems, a set of map matching requirements and challenges unique in pedestrian/wheelchair navigation is identified. To provide navigation assistance to pedestrians and wheelchair users, there is a need for the design and development of new map matching techniques. The main goal of this research is to investigate and develop advanced map matching technologies and techniques particular for pedestrian/wheelchair navigation services. As the first step in map matching, an adaptive candidate segment selection algorithm is developed to efficiently find candidate segments. Furthermore, to narrow down the search for the correct segment, advanced mathematical models are applied. GPS-based chain-code map matching, Hidden Markov Model (HMM) map matching, and fuzzy-logic map matching algorithms are developed to estimate real-time location of users in pedestrian/wheelchair navigation systems/services. Nevertheless, GPS signal is not always available in areas with high-rise buildings and even when there is a signal, the accuracy may not be high enough for localization of pedestrians and wheelchair users on sidewalks. To overcome these shortcomings of GPS, multi-sensor integrated map matching algorithms are investigated and developed in this research. These algorithms include a movement pattern recognition algorithm, using accelerometer and compass data, and a vision-based positioning algorithm to fill in signal gaps in GPS positioning. Experiments are conducted to evaluate the developed algorithms using real field test data (GPS coordinates and other sensors data). The experimental results show that the developed algorithms and the integrated sensors, i.e., a monocular visual odometry, a GPS, an accelerometer, and a compass, can provide high-quality and uninterrupted localization services in pedestrian/wheelchair navigation systems/services. The map matching techniques developed in this work can be applied to various pedestrian/wheelchair navigation applications, such as tracking senior citizens and children, or tourist service systems, and can be further utilized in building walking robots and automatic wheelchair navigation systems.} } @inproceedings{pittir12627, month = {December}, title = {An efficient, robust, and scalable trust management scheme for unattended wireless sensor networks}, author = {Y Ren and VI Zadorozhny and VA Oleshchuk and FY Li}, year = {2012}, pages = {147 -- 156}, journal = {Proceedings - 2012 IEEE 13th International Conference on Mobile Data Management, MDM 2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12627/}, abstract = {Unattended Wireless Sensor Networks (UWSNs) are characterized by long periods of disconnected operation and fixed or irregular intervals between visits by the sink. The absence of an online trusted third party, i.e., an on-site sink, makes existing trust management schemes used in legacy wireless sensor networks not applicable to UWSNs directly. In this paper, we propose a trust management scheme for UWSNs to provide efficient, robust and scalable trust data storage. For trust data storage, we employ geographic hash table to efficiently identify data storage nodes and to significantly reduce storage cost. We demonstrate, through detailed analyses and extensive simulations, that the proposed scheme is efficient, robust, and scalable. {\copyright} 2012 IEEE.} } @unpublished{pittir12478, month = {October}, title = {COMPOSITION AND PUBLIC ENGAGEMENTS: PROJECT ENGLISH, NEH SEMINARS, AND THE NATIONAL WRITING PROJECT}, author = {Dahliani Reynolds}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Literacy Crisis, Rhetoric, Pedagogy}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12478/}, abstract = {My dissertation assesses Project English (1962-1968), the National Endowment for the Humanities Seminars in Composition and Rhetoric (1973-1987), and the National Writing Project (1974-present) as moments of productive engagements with public constituencies. Drawing on personal interviews and archival research, I complicate a disciplinary commonplace: throughout its history, the field has failed to redress public critiques of student writers and writing instruction. The initiatives in my study provide sustainable models for revitalizing disciplinary responses to recurrent public outcries about the failures of literacy education. Among their strategies worthy of emulation are: 1) using rather than resisting public concerns about the real problems of literacy education, 2) promoting a broad definition of literacy to counter public calls to return to ?the basics? of writing instruction, 3) forging alliances with elementary and secondary school educators across the curriculum, and 4) framing writing as a bipartisan issue. I argue that composition and rhetoric scholars can enrich the field?s responses to public criticism of our work by drawing on such strategies to build connections with multiple stakeholders across disciplinary and institutional boundaries. Composition and Public Engagements: Project English, NEH Seminars, and the National Writing Project rewrites the field?s history of engagements with multiple publics, especially the federal government, to highlight positive moments in our past that might embolden us to re-imagine possibilities for communicating with public stakeholders in our current moment. In addition to this historiographic intervention, my dissertation contributes to contemporary conversations about how to ensure that composition and rhetoric scholars are valued participants in public discourse about literacy education. It is crucial that the field sustain productive responses to such conversations because, as my dissertation shows, they not only shape public policy, they inform the field?s research agendas and pedagogical commitments. As my analysis of Project English, the NEH Seminars, and the National Writing Project makes evident, literacy education is inescapably both public and political, shaping our curricular choices about what to teach and our pedagogical choices about how.} } @article{pittir12716, volume = {8}, number = {5}, month = {May}, author = {Young-Ah Rho and Steven A. Prescott}, editor = {Boris S. Gutkin}, title = {Identification of Molecular Pathologies Sufficient to Cause Neuropathic Excitability in Primary Somatosensory Afferents Using Dynamical Systems Theory}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS Computational Biology}, pages = {e1002524 -- e1002524}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12716/} } @article{pittir29796, volume = {12}, month = {November}, title = {Clinical identification of bacteria in human chronic wound infections: Culturing vs. 16S ribosomal DNA sequencing}, author = {DD Rhoads and SB Cox and EJ Rees and Y Sun and RD Wolcott}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Infectious Diseases}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29796/}, abstract = {Background: Chronic wounds affect millions of people and cost billions of dollars in the United States each year. These wounds harbor polymicrobial biofilm communities, which can be difficult to elucidate using culturing methods. Clinical molecular microbiological methods are increasingly being employed to investigate the microbiota of chronic infections, including wounds, as part of standard patient care. However, molecular testing is more sensitive than culturing, which results in markedly different results being reported to clinicians. This study compares the results of aerobic culturing and molecular testing (culture-free 16S ribosomal DNA sequencing), and it examines the relative abundance score that is generated by the molecular test and the usefulness of the relative abundance score in predicting the likelihood that the same organism would be detected by culture.Methods: Parallel samples from 51 chronic wounds were studied using aerobic culturing and 16S DNA sequencing for the identification of bacteria.Results: One hundred forty-five (145) unique genera were identified using molecular methods, and 68 of these genera were aerotolerant. Fourteen (14) unique genera were identified using aerobic culture methods. One-third (31/92) of the cultures were determined to be {\ensuremath{<}} 1\% of the relative abundance of the wound microbiota using molecular testing. At the genus level, molecular testing identified 85\% (78/92) of the bacteria that were identified by culture. Conversely, culturing detected 15.7\% (78/497) of the aerotolerant bacteria and detected 54.9\% of the collective aerotolerant relative abundance of the samples. Aerotolerant bacterial genera (and individual species including Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterococcus faecalis) with higher relative abundance scores were more likely to be detected by culture as demonstrated with regression modeling.Conclusion: Discordance between molecular and culture testing is often observed. However, culture-free 16S ribosomal DNA sequencing and its relative abundance score can provide clinicians with insight into which bacteria are most abundant in a sample and which are most likely to be detected by culture. {\copyright} 2012 Rhoads et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir14357, volume = {18}, number = {2}, month = {March}, author = {FV Ribeiro and VR Santos and MF Bastos and TS de Miranda and AR Vieira and LC de Figueiredo and PM Duarte}, title = {A preliminary study on the FAM5C expression in generalized chronic periodontitis}, journal = {Oral Diseases}, pages = {147 -- 152}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14357/}, abstract = {Objective: The Family with sequence similarity 5 member C (FAM5C) has been suggested to contribute in aggressive periodontitis. However, there is no data regarding its role in chronic periodontitis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the FAM5C expression in chronic periodontitis and to study association of FAM5C with key immunoinflammatory markers. Material and Methods: Gingival biopsies were harvested from periodontally healthy subjects (n=10) and chronic periodontitis subjects (n=15). The levels of mRNA of FAM5C, interleukin (IL)-17, IL-6, IL-23, IL-10, IL-4, interferon-{\ensuremath{\gamma}}, toll-like receptor (TLR)-2, TLR-4, osteoprotegerin (OPG), receptor activator of NF- {\ensuremath{\kappa}}B ligand (RANKL), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-{\ensuremath{\alpha}}, transforming growth factor-{\ensuremath{\beta}}, transcription factor forkhead box p3, and transcription factor orphan nuclear receptor C2 were evaluated by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results: FAM5C mRNA levels were not different between periodontally healthy and diseased tissues (P{\ensuremath{>}}0.05). Gene expressions of IL-17, TNF-{\ensuremath{\alpha}}, OPG, RANKL, TLR-2, and TLR-4 were higher in periodontitis, when compared to periodontally healthy sites (P{\ensuremath{<}}0.05), while no differences between groups were observed for the other genes evaluated (P{\ensuremath{>}}0.05). There were no correlations between the gene expression of FAM5C and the other immunoinflammatory markers (P{\ensuremath{>}}0.05). Conclusion: Within the limits of this study, it seems that FAM5C expression does not contribute to chronic periodontitis. {\copyright} 2011 John Wiley \& Sons A/S.} } @article{pittir38874, volume = {2012}, month = {November}, author = {Paul M. Ribisl and Sarah A. Gaussoin and Wei Lang and Judy Bahnson and Stephanie A. Connelly and Edward S. Horton and John M. Jakicic and Tina Killean and Dalane W. Kitzman and William C. Knowler and Kerry J. Stewart}, title = {Lifestyle Intervention Improves Heart Rate Recovery from Exercise in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes: Results from the Look AHEAD Study}, publisher = {Hindawi Limited}, journal = {Journal of Obesity}, pages = {1--12}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/38874/}, abstract = {The primary aims of this paper were (1) to evaluate the influence of intensive lifestyle weight loss and exercise intervention (ILI) compared with diabetes support and education (DSE) upon Heart Rate Recovery (HRR) from graded exercise testing (GXT) and (2) to determine the independent and combined effects of weight loss and fitness changes upon HRR. In 4503 participants (45?76 years) who completed 1 year of intervention, HRR was measured after a submaximal GXT to compare the influence of (ILI) with (DSE) upon HRR. Participants assigned to ILI lost an average 8.6\% of their initial weight versus 0.7\% in DSE group (P{\ensuremath{<}}0.001) while mean fitness increased in ILI by 20.9\% versus 5.8\% in DSE (P{\ensuremath{<}}0.001). At Year 1, all exercise and HRR variables in ILI improved (P{\ensuremath{<}}0.0001) versus DSE: heart rate (HR) at rest was lower (72.8{$\pm$}11.4 versus 77.7{$\pm$}11.7 b/min), HR range was greater (57.7{$\pm$}12.1 versus 53.1{$\pm$}12.4 b/min), HR at 2 minutes was lower (89.3{$\pm$}21.8 versus 93.0{$\pm$}12.1 b/min), and HRR was greater (41.25{$\pm$}22.0 versus 37.8{$\pm$}12.5 b/min). Weight loss and fitness gain produced significant separate and independent improvements in HRR.} } @unpublished{pittir10777, month = {January}, title = {ASSOCIATION OF LIPOPROTEIN-ASSOCIATED PHOSPHOLIPASE A2 AND C-REACTIVE PROTEIN WITH MODERATE-TO-VIGOROUS PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN MIDDLE-AGED WOMEN}, author = {David Rice}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Inflammation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10777/}, abstract = {Coronary heart disease (CHD) is an inflammatory process that is the most common form of cardiovascular diseas(CVD). People who are habitually physically active have comparatively lower levels of certain inflammatory biomarkers. C-reactive protein (CRP) is considered the ?gold standard? to assess the relation between physical activity and inflammation. Lipoprotein- associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) is an inflammatory marker that has been shown to be associated with CHD. However, little is known about what association Lp-PLA2 might have with habitual physical activity. Purpose: The current investigation examined the association between Lp-PLA2 and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA). A secondary purpose was to examine the association between CRP and MVPA. Finally, this investigation examined the association between Lp-PLA2 and CRP. Methods: This investigation was a secondary analysis of data that were previously collected as part of the Epidemiologic Study of Health Risk in Women (ESTHER). Seventy-five females (50.2 {$\pm$} 10 yrs.) were selected for the current investigation and were assigned to either the ACTIVE or INACTIVE group. The ACTIVE group was comprised of those who reported the highest levels of MVPA (? 8.93 hours/week) during the previous 12 months. The INACTIVE group comprised participants who reported no MVPA over the previous 12 months. Blood samples from each participant were analyzed for levels of Lp-PLA2 mass, Lp-PLA2 activity and CRP. Results: No significant differences were found between the ACTIVE and INACTIVE groups for mean values of either Lp-PLA2 mass (ACTIVE= 226.4 {$\pm$} 48.1 ng/ml, INACTIVE=217.6 {$\pm$} 50.4 ng/ml, p = 0.44) or Lp-PLA2 activity (ACTIVE=133.3 {$\pm$} 26.4 nmol/min/ml, INACTIVE=136.5 {$\pm$} 30.5 nmol/min/ml, p = 0.63). CRP values were significantly (p = 0.02) lower in the ACTIVE group as compared to the INACTIVE group. It was found that neither Lp-PLA2 mass nor Lp- PLA2 activity were significantly correlated with CRP values. Conclusions: Based on the current findings, it can be concluded that Lp-PLA2 is not associated with MVPA in heterosexual, middle-aged women. Other inflammatory markers that have been found to be associated both with CHD and PA, such as CRP, IL-6, and TNF- {\ensuremath{\alpha}}, should continue to be examined. } } @article{pittir29790, volume = {6}, number = {SUPPL3}, month = {December}, title = {Revealing functionally coherent subsets using a spectral clustering and an information integration approach}, author = {AJ Richards and JH Schwacke and B Rohrer and LA Cowart and X Lu}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Systems Biology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29790/}, abstract = {Background: Contemporary high-throughput analyses often produce lengthy lists of genes or proteins. It is desirable to divide the genes into functionally coherent subsets for further investigation, by integrating heterogeneous information regarding the genes. Here we report a principled approach for managing and integrating multiple data sources within the framework of graph-spectrum analysis in order to identify coherent gene subsets.Results: We investigated several approaches to integrate information derived from different sources that reflect distinct aspects of gene functional relationships including: functional annotations of genes in the form of the Gene Ontology, co-mentioning of genes in the literature, and shared transcription factor binding sites among genes. Given a list of genes, we construct a graph containing the genes in each information space; then the graphs were kernel transformed so they could be integrated; finally functionally coherent subsets were identified using a spectral clustering algorithm. In a series of simulation experiments, known functionally coherent gene sets were mixed and recovered using our approach.Conclusions: The results indicate that spectral clustering approaches are capable of recovering coherent gene modules even under noisy conditions, and that information integration serves to further enhance this capability. When applied to a real-world data set, our methods revealed biologically sensible modules, and highlighted the importance of information integration. The implementation of the statistical model is provided under the GNU general public license, as an installable Python module, at: http://code.google.com/p/spectralmix. {\copyright} 2012 Richards et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir11687, month = {June}, title = {The Impact of Medical Management on Quality of Life in Brugada Syndrome Patients }, author = {Sarah Richards}, year = {2012}, keywords = {channelopathy; Brugada syndrome; quality of life; ICD }, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11687/}, abstract = {PURPOSE: Brugada syndrome is an inherited cardiac arrhythmia disorder characterized by ST segment elevation in leads V1-V3 on an electrocardiogram (ECG). The main symptoms of this condition are syncope and sudden cardiac death. Medical management for symptomatic patients is an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD). Research has shown that cardiac patients who have an ICD experience a decreased quality of life. However, limited studies have been done on the impact of Brugada syndrome on patient quality of life let alone the impact of medical management in this patient population. The purpose of this study was to understand how Brugada syndrome affects quality of life and if there is any difference between those with an ICD and those without one. The public health significance of this project is to further the understanding of the impacts of medical management in a specific patient population. METHODS: Participants were recruited from a multigenerational family with Brugada syndrome where a mutation has been identified in the gene GPD1L. A questionnaire was developed to ascertain medical management decisions. Additionally, the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36v2) was used to assess quality of life. RESULTS: A total of 17 participants agreed to enroll in the study with an age range of 36-89 years. Ten of the seventeen had the family mutation in GPD1L with seven of these ten displaying the Brugada phenotype on an ECG. Only three participants had an ICD and one participant was considering the option in the near future. The main reasons for choosing an ICD were either due to a sense of inevitability and necessity or for family benefit. There was no difference in quality of life between those with the familial mutation and those without. There was also no difference observed between asymptomatic and symptomatic individuals with the mutation. Those with an ICD had a lower MCS than those without an ICD (p-value 0.013) with no other significant differences observed. CONCLUSION: Reasons underlying ICD decision-making are similar to those seen in other studies, indicating that Brugada patients? experiences are similar to other patient groups with an ICD. There was no statistical difference in quality of life between those with and those without a genetic diagnosis or those with and without symptoms. The difference between those with and without an ICD indicates that medical management does impact quality of life, adding more evidence to support there is a significant psychosocial aspect to Brugada syndrome management. Additional research is needed to better address the specific needs of this patient population. } } @unpublished{pittir10667, month = {January}, title = {HOW MUCH IS TOO MUCH? EXPLANATORY TEXT EFFECTS ON CONCEPTUAL LEARNING AND MOTIVATION}, author = {J. Elizabeth Richey}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Achievement goals, assistance, explanation, structure, desirable difficulty.}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10667/}, abstract = {Instructors in every domain face a fundamental challenge in determining when to provide students with explanations and when to allow them to generate their own. Past research examining the effects of providing or withholding explanatory material has provided evidence for the effectiveness of worked examples, a providing approach, as well as self-explanation, a withholding approach. The mechanisms through which these paths promote different kinds of learning remain unclear. Additionally, the role of motivation in determining how students interact with providing or withholding materials has not been investigated, although evidence suggests mastery and performance approach goals will be more important in less structured learning environments. A pair of studies with middle school and university students contrasted learning conditions that received instructional text, worked examples and practice problems on the topic of electricity, with conceptual explanations of problem-solving steps either provided or withheld. Science achievement goals, task goals, and different kinds of knowledge outcomes were measured. Results suggest that providing conceptual explanations during problem solving has a detrimental effect on conceptual learning and offers no benefit to problem-solving skills. Additionally, results suggest that achievement goals and task goals may play a reduced role in facilitating learning when explanations are provided. These results suggest that providing more structured learning materials may disrupt learning and diminish the benefits of motivation.} } @article{pittir38838, volume = {2012}, title = {Structural Health Monitoring of Civil Structures: New Methodologies and Field Applications 2012}, author = {Piervincenzo Rizzo and Lingyu (Lucy) Yu and Alessandro Marzani}, publisher = {Hindawi Limited}, year = {2012}, pages = {1--2}, journal = {Advances in Civil Engineering}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/38838/} } @unpublished{pittir12482, month = {October}, title = {Vital Energy: the development of a core concept}, author = {Maira Roazzi}, year = {2012}, note = {I am submitting a first draft of my dissertations document formated under the ETD standard. Please let me know what needs to be addressed before I submit a final version. }, keywords = {Vital Energy; Naive Biology; Cognitive Development.}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12482/}, abstract = {The present research was designed to investigate the development of vital energy reasoning. Previous research has demonstrated that children and adults reason about vitalistic causality in the domain of biology. However it is not clear if reasoning in terms of energy transfer/exchange (a component of vitalistic causality) is later recruited to explain phenomena in other domains of thought. The present study set out to investigate if vital energy reasoning is recruited to explain biological and psychological phenomena, and if this reasoning is further extended to explain transcendental and/or spiritual phenomena. Study 1 presented children and young adults from the USA with situations in which a character has either a biological (ex: sick) or psychological (ex: sad) condition. Participants judged whether a series of natural and social-psychological sources of vital energy could help the character improve their condition. Most of the participants had a similar pattern of response, associating energy transfer with biological conditions and natural sources. However there were some age differences when it came to children?s judgments of the psychological conditions. Study 2 used a cross-national sample from Brazil and the USA, and examined whether reasoning about energy exchange/transfer is recruited to explain transcendental/spiritual processes. Young adults were presented with a hypothetical death scenario to see how they reason about the continuity of vital energy (psychological and biological) when the biological body ceases functioning. Participants from both nationalities were more likely to reason about a positive psychological vital energy transcending into an afterlife. Furthermore, participants were more likely to conceive this energy continuity as attached to an identity, such as a soul or spirit. Findings also pointed to a relationship between people?s alternative beliefs, such belief in an immanent religiosity, in alternative medicine, and in the supernatural, and their likelihood to assume a continuity of vital energy. } } @unpublished{pittir11862, month = {May}, title = {"Can you feel it?" emotional resonance across jazz and literature}, author = {Jacob Robbins}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Ellington, Hemingway, Impressionism, Jazz, Composition, Style, Emotion, Modernism}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11862/}, abstract = {This study explores the interpretive dissonance between two forms of Impressionist artistic expression in the twentieth century. Duke Ellington and Ernest Hemingway offer fruitful comparisons of the High Modernist short story and the short instrumental orchestral Jazz compositional forms respectively. The author offers a qualitative account of the direct threads of comparison between the forms, citing specific examples from each artist. Many questions arise that challenge fundamental aspects of critical convention. How are these conventions applied to an inter-disciplinary topic? What is fundamentally different about the process of appreciating music versus literature? How, when we consider each as performative texts, does the distortion of personal experience versus authorial intent confound authoritative claims about Impressionistic work? These comparisons draw direct parallels between the following examples: Ellington?s compositions, ?Take the ?A? Train,? ?The Star-Crossed Lovers,? and ?Daybreak Express,? Hemingway?s short stories, ?The Short and Happy Life of Francis Macomber,? ?Big Two-Hearted River,? and ?A Clean, Well-Lighted Place.? This is a broad, exploratory search for loci of meaning that investigate the critical discourse in different interpretive communities. The methodology focuses on detailed readings of music and literature with an eye for threads of connection between the two forms. Historical background and philosophical justifications help substantiate claims throughout. The focus, at times, compares component elements of composition and asks whether they can be held responsible for emotional response. This close reading then contrasts with broader attempts to justify emotional response through general affective reactions. The conclusions suggest that a closer look at the interplay between forms does impact the reading of each text individually. The experience of reading the texts side-by-side connects thematic trends that would otherwise remain hidden. These two artists are shown to be prime examples of both aesthetic complexity and interpretive flexibility. This project fills a gap in the critical discourse that justly compares two prominent artists of the twentieth century that are rarely discussed in the same sentence.} } @unpublished{pittir12533, month = {October}, title = {Time, symmetry and structure: A study in the foundations of quantum theory}, author = {Bryan W. Roberts}, year = {2012}, keywords = {philosophy of physics, quantum theory, time, time reversal, T violation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12533/}, abstract = {This dissertation is about the sense in which the laws of quantum theory distinguish between the past and the future. I begin with an account of what it means for quantum theory to make such a distinction, by providing a novel derivation of the meaning of "time reversal." I then show that if Galilei invariant quantum theory does distinguish a preferred direction in time, then this has consequences for the ontology of the theory. In particular, it requires matter to admit "internal" degrees of freedom, in that the position observable generates a maximal abelian algebra. I proceed to show that this is not a purely quantum phenomenon, but can be expressed in classical mechanics as well. I then illustrate three routes for generating quantum systems that distinguish a preferred temporal direction in this way.} } @unpublished{pittir12354, month = {August}, title = {The Contribution of DNA Interstrand Crosslinks to Aging}, author = {Andria R Robinson}, year = {2012}, keywords = {ERCC1 XPF Aging Progeria}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12354/}, abstract = {DNA damage is hypothesized to be a driver of aging. In support of this, DNA damage and genetic mutations, resulting from replication of that damage, both increase in the nuclear genome as organisms age. Furthermore, long-lived species are relatively resistant to genotoxic stress. Conversely, organisms with DNA repair-deficient or genome instability disorders have decreased lifespans and age rapidly, which supports this theory. One main source of endogenous DNA damage is reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by mitochondria. While it is true that ROS can damage other macromolecules in the cell, DNA is the only one that is repaired rather than replaced, illustrating the dire consequences of DNA damage. If repair is not 100\% complete over a lifetime, it stands to reason that this unrepaired damage could be a major contributor to aging. Ercc1-/{\ensuremath{\Delta}} mice are deficient in multiple DNA repair pathways and therefore suffer more DNA damage than normal mice. As a consequence, they age prematurely, modeling a human progeroid syndrome. This makes them a useful in vivo system for studying the contribution of DNA damage to aging. For this reason, we challenged the mice with a chemotherapeutic crosslinking agent to determine if DNA damage promotes aging, with an environmental contaminant and a diet of polyunsaturated fatty acids to see if these promote DNA damage and aging. We found that a particular class of lesions, DNA interstrand crosslinks, accelerate aging associated changes through a cytostatic, rather than cytotoxic mechanism. We also exposed the mice to a specialized antioxidant to test the hypothesis that mitochondrial-derived reactive oxygen species are the cause of endogenous DNA damage that promotes aging. Collectively, these studies identified genes, environmental influences and therapeutics that impact lifespan and healthspan. In total, the studies strongly support the hypothesis that DNA damage can promote degenerative changes associated with aging. These studies have public health significance as they reveal multiple novel strategies to decrease the DNA damage burden, therefore presenting potential opportunities to improve quality of life in old age. } } @unpublished{pittir11952, month = {May}, title = {Illness explanatory models in contemporary research: a critique of the Explanatory Model Interview Catalogue}, author = {Cory Rodgers}, year = {2012}, keywords = {explanatory model, medical anthropology, EMIC, BEMI}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11952/}, abstract = {The Explanatory Model Interview Catalogue (EMIC) is a semi-structured interview guide used by cultural epidemiologists to collect data on illness representations in different cultural contexts. To facilitate planning of new services for AIDS-affected families, a modified version of the EMIC was employed to study representations of HIV in rural Karagwe, Tanzania. Results of this study are reported here, although research design problems limit the meaningfulness of these findings and raise questions of validity. By reflecting on the shortcomings in my study design as well as published criticisms of the explanatory model framework, I critique several trends in EMIC research. First is the tendency to reduce or even eliminate the preliminary ethnographic phase that precedes interviews. Second is the existence of problematic assumptions about cultural knowledge that characterize many EMIC studies, ignoring cognitive processes and reifying uncertain claims as concrete beliefs. Not all EMIC applications follow these trends, and attention is directed to exemplar studies that demonstrate anthropologically-attuned cultural epidemiological research.} } @article{pittir14163, volume = {7}, number = {3}, month = {March}, title = {Framingham risk score and alternatives for prediction of coronary heart disease in older adults}, author = {N Rodondi and I Locatelli and D Aujesky and J Butler and E Vittinghoff and E Simonsick and S Satterfield and AB Newman and PWF Wilson and MJ Pletcher and DC Bauer}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14163/}, abstract = {Background: Guidelines for the prevention of coronary heart disease (CHD) recommend use of Framingham-based risk scores that were developed in white middle-aged populations. It remains unclear whether and how CHD risk prediction might be improved among older adults. We aimed to compare the prognostic performance of the Framingham risk score (FRS), directly and after recalibration, with refit functions derived from the present cohort, as well as to assess the utility of adding other routinely available risk parameters to FRS. Methods: Among 2193 black and white older adults (mean age, 73.5 years) without pre-existing cardiovascular disease from the Health ABC cohort, we examined adjudicated CHD events, defined as incident myocardial infarction, CHD death, and hospitalization for angina or coronary revascularization. Results: During 8-year follow-up, 351 participants experienced CHD events. The FRS poorly discriminated between persons who experienced CHD events vs. not (C-index: 0.577 in women; 0.583 in men) and underestimated absolute risk prediction by 51\% in women and 8\% in men. Recalibration of the FRS improved absolute risk prediction, particulary for women. For both genders, refitting these functions substantially improved absolute risk prediction, with similar discrimination to the FRS. Results did not differ between whites and blacks. The addition of lifestyle variables, waist circumference and creatinine did not improve risk prediction beyond risk factors of the FRS. Conclusions: The FRS underestimates CHD risk in older adults, particularly in women, although traditional risk factors remain the best predictors of CHD. Re-estimated risk functions using these factors improve accurate estimation of absolute risk. {\copyright} 2012 Rodondi et al.} } @unpublished{pittir12967, month = {July}, title = {Life and death of multipotential stromal cells/ mesenchymal stem cells: countervailing regulation by survival and apoptotic signaling}, author = {Melanie Rodrigues}, year = {2012}, keywords = {mesenchymal stem cell survival, epidermal growth factor receptor, tenascin-c survival signaling, pre-autophagy}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12967/}, abstract = {Multipotential stromal cells/ mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can regenerate bone and adipose tissues, as these cells form osteoblasts and adipocytes. A major hurdle to using MSC however is cell-loss post-implantation. This cell death is partly due to inflammatory cytokines such as FasL generated in the implant site. In this study we found that FasL kills MSC by increasing reactive oxygen species in addition to activation of caspases. Thus we sought ways to protect MSC from FasL and other pro-death stimuli. Our group previously reported that soluble epidermal growth factor (sEGF) promotes MSC expansion but does not support survival from FasL. Tethering EGF onto a two-dimensional surface (tEGF) altered MSC responses, causing sustained cell-surface activation of EGFR, protecting from FasL. However, for tEGF to be useful in bone regeneration, it needs to allow for MSC differentiation into osteoblasts, while also protecting emerging osteoblasts. Our lab has also shown that the matrikine Tenascin-C binds EGFR with a low affinity but a high avidity, and we proposed that Tenascin-C should also lead to cell-surface signaling of EGFR, causing survival. We found that tEGF and Tenascin-C did not block induced differentiation of MSCs into osteoblasts, or adipocytes, a default MSC-differentiation pathway. tEGF protected differentiating osteoblasts from FasL mediated death. Differentiating adipocytes became resistant to FasL, with tEGF having no further survival effect. tEGF also protected MSC from combined insults of FasL, serum deprivation and hypoxia. Tenascin-C was found to protect MSC from FasL by activating sustained EGFR signaling from the cell surface. We also found that MSC exist in a state of pre-autophagy, with cells filled with early autophagosomes that are not degraded. These autophagosomes are lost as MSC differentiate into osteoblasts, suggesting that MSC exist in a state of preparedness, to form new protein during nutrient challenge. Our results suggest that MSCs and differentiating osteoblasts need protective signals to survive the inflammatory wound. tEGF or Tenascin-C can serve this function. } } @unpublished{pittir11923, month = {May}, title = {Profitability and production in 19th century composite ships: the case study of the Austrian vessel, the Slobodna}, author = {Eric A. Rodriguez}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Maritime Archaeology, Shipwrecks, Austria-Hungary, Great Britain, Technological Transitions, Marxian Economics}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11923/}, abstract = {The shipbuilding strategies of the late-19th century are defined by the adaptations and incorporation of new building materials that allowed for the specialization and near perfection of the sailing ship as a commerce vehicle. European shipbuilding industries began incorporating iron as a building material as its value became lower than that of timber. As the more affordable alternative, iron alleviated the pressures of decreasing timber reserves and the material?s growing value. Iron was integrated into merchant ships, creating larger stronger hulls and achieving faster freighting rates. The first iron and wood hybrids were known as composite ships, which increased the economic surplus of the industries due to low production costs and increasing efficient freighting rates. As the revenue increased, industries expanded into the specialized production of iron ship parts eliminating more of their reliance of wooden craftsmanship and its costly application. The lost cost and benefits of ironworking in sailing ships gave sailing dominion over the long-distance trade while the steamship controlled regional trade. The steamship produced only low returns on long-distance trade due to high fuel consumption and frequent repair, giving the sailing ship a specialized role for trade. With the creation of the fuel-conscious triple combustion engine in the late-1880s, the steamship became more efficient and profitable than sailing ships, which were then phased out of commercial trading. However, this trend did not happen simultaneously across Europe as the availability and level of industrial production varied. Austrian builders continued practicing traditional shipbuilding methods up to the 1880s, as it remained the most cost-efficient method of construction for long distance trade. Through an archaeological and historic study of one of these Austrian vessels, the Slobodna, it is possible to observe the different methods that European countries at the time utilized in order to maintain their approaches to capitalism. Through an interdisciplinary approach consisting of history, Marxian economics, and maritime archaeology, it is possible to identify and further examine the relationship between the motivation to achieve high profitability in shipbuilding and the incorporation of technological advancements in the industrial and economic situations that were present in 19th century Europe. } } @article{pittir12706, volume = {7}, number = {6}, month = {June}, title = {Cognitive and behavioral predictors of light therapy use}, author = {KA Roecklein and JA Schumacher and MA Miller and NC Ernecoff}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12706/}, abstract = {Objective: Although light therapy is effective in the treatment of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and other mood disorders, only 53-79\% of individuals with SAD meet remission criteria after light therapy. Perhaps more importantly, only 12-41\% of individuals with SAD continue to use the treatment even after a previous winter of successful treatment. Method: Participants completed surveys regarding (1) social, cognitive, and behavioral variables used to evaluate treatment adherence for other health-related issues, expectations and credibility of light therapy, (2) a depression symptoms scale, and (3) self-reported light therapy use. Results: Individuals age 18 or older responded (n = 40), all reporting having been diagnosed with a mood disorder for which light therapy is indicated. Social support and self-efficacy scores were predictive of light therapy use (p's{\ensuremath{<}}.05). Conclusion: The findings suggest that testing social support and self-efficacy in a diagnosed patient population may identify factors related to the decision to use light therapy. Treatments that impact social support and self-efficacy may improve treatment response to light therapy in SAD. {\copyright} 2012 Roecklein et al.} } @article{pittir18648, volume = {29}, number = {8}, month = {October}, author = {KA Roecklein and PM Wong and PL Franzen and BP Hasler and WM Wood-Vasey and VL Nimgaonkar and MA Miller and KM Kepreos and RE Ferrell and SB Manuck}, title = {Melanopsin gene variations interact with season to predict sleep onset and chronotype}, journal = {Chronobiology International}, pages = {1036 -- 1047}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18648/}, abstract = {The human melanopsin gene has been reported to mediate risk for seasonal affective disorder (SAD), which is hypothesized to be caused by decreased photic input during winter when light levels fall below threshold, resulting in differences in circadian phase andor sleep. However, it is unclear if melanopsin increases risk of SAD by causing differences in sleep or circadian phase, or if those differences are symptoms of the mood disorder. To determine if melanopsin sequence variations are associated with differences in sleep-wake behavior among those not suffering from a mood disorder, the authors tested associations between melanopsin gene polymorphisms and self-reported sleep timing (sleep onset and wake time) in a community sample (N234) of non-Hispanic Caucasian participants (age 3054 yrs) with no history of psychological, neurological, or sleep disorders. The authors also tested the effect of melanopsin variations on differences in preferred sleep and activity timing (i.e., chronotype), which may reflect differences in circadian phase, sleep homeostasis, or both. Daylength on the day of assessment was measured and included in analyses. DNA samples were genotyped for melanopsin gene polymorphisms using fluorescence polarization. P10L genotype interacted with daylength to predict self-reported sleep onset (interaction p{\ensuremath{<}}.05). Specifically, sleep onset among those with the TT genotype was later in the day when individuals were assessed on longer days and earlier in the day on shorter days, whereas individuals in the other genotype groups (i.e., CC and CT) did not show this interaction effect. P10L genotype also interacted in an analogous way with daylength to predict self-reported morningness (interaction p{\ensuremath{<}}.05). These results suggest that the P10L TT genotype interacts with daylength to predispose individuals to vary in sleep onset and chronotype as a function of daylength, whereas other genotypes at P10L do not seem to have effects that vary by daylength. A better understanding of how melanopsin confers heightened responsivity to daylength may improve our understanding of a broad range of behavioral responses to light (i.e., circadian, sleep, mood) as well as the etiology of disorders with seasonal patterns of recurrence or exacerbation. {\copyright} Informa Healthcare USA, Inc.} } @unpublished{pittir10583, month = {January}, title = {THE EFFECT OF A 12-MONTH WEIGHT LOSS INTERVENTION ON VITAMIN D STATUS IN SEVERELY OBESE CAUCASIANS AND AFRICAN AMERICAN ADULTS }, author = {Krista Rompolski}, year = {2012}, keywords = {obesity, Vitamin D deficiency, weight loss}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10583/}, abstract = {Vitamin D deficiency is a potential risk factor for several chronic conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and immune disorders. Several studies have found an association between Vitamin D deficiency and obesity, yet it is unclear whether Vitamin D contributes to obesity, or obesity itself causes Vitamin D deficiency. The purpose of this study is to determine the relationship between obesity and Vitamin D status and to examine the effects of weight loss and physical activity on Vitamin D status in severely obese Caucasians and African Americans. 50 class II and class III obese women participated in a 12-month diet and exercise intervention. Vitamin D status was examined at baseline, 6 and 12 months to determine the relationship between Vitamin D and weight loss, fat loss, race and physical activity. At baseline, both the Class I and Class III obese subjects were considered Vitamin D insufficient (20-30 ng/mL). The Class II subjects were considered deficient ({\ensuremath{<}}20 ng/mL). The normal weight subjects were classified as sufficient ({\ensuremath{>}}30 ng/mL). Caucasians in the Class I and III obese groups had significantly higher Vitamin D than African Americans. Vitamin D increased significantly following 6 months of weight loss. There was no significant relationship between change in Vitamin D and change in body weight or body fat. Vitamin D decreased at 12 months despite a period of weight maintenance yet remained significantly greater than baseline. Meal replacement shakes containing Vitamin D were taken twice per day from baseline to 6 months and once per day from 6-12 months, contributing to the increase in Vitamin D at 6 months and 12 months. Throughout the intervention, Vitamin D status was significantly greater in Caucasians than African Americans. There was no relationship between Vitamin D status and physical activity at 6 or 12 months. The results of this study confirm that Vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency is related to degree of adiposity and is more prevalent in African Americans than Caucasians. Moreover, a dietary weight loss intervention significantly increased Vitamin D in severely obese women, indicating that lower Vitamin D in obesity is amenable to weight loss intervention. } } @article{pittir29875, volume = {16}, number = {3}, month = {June}, title = {Subclinical AKI is still AKI}, author = {C Ronco and JA Kellum and M Haase}, year = {2012}, journal = {Critical Care}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29875/}, abstract = {The concept of acute kidney syndromes has shifted in recent years from acute renal failure to acute kidney injury (AKI). AKI implies injury or damage but not necessarily dysfunction. The human kidney has an important glomerular function reserve, and dysfunction becomes evident only when more than 50\% of the renal mass is compromised. Recent AKI classifications include even slight changes in serum creatinine, acknowledging that this condition is associated with worse outcomes. This, however, still represents a functional criterion for AKI and implies a glomerular filtration rate alteration that may be a late phenomenon in the time course of the syndrome. An early diagnosis of AKI by using tubular damage biomarkers preceding filtration function loss is possible today. Some studies have shown evidence that there is an additional value of new biomarkers not only because they allow a diagnosis to be made earlier but also because they allow a kidney injury to be diagnosed even in the absence of subsequent dysfunction. Only recently, tubular damage without glomerular function loss was demonstrated to be associated with worse renal and overall outcomes. For this condition, the term 'subclinical' AKI has been introduced, challenging the traditional view that a kidney problem is clinically relevant, only when a loss of filtration function becomes apparent. A new domain of AKI diagnosis could then include functional criteria and damage criteria. This may have an impact on the epidemiology, prevention, and management of AKI. {\copyright} 2012 BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir12745, volume = {78}, number = {2}, month = {January}, author = {D Roongpiboonsopit and HA Karimi}, title = {Integrated Global Navigation Satellite System (iGNSS) QoS prediction}, journal = {Photogrammetric Engineering and Remote Sensing}, pages = {139 -- 149}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12745/}, abstract = {Navigation applications, among other location-based applications, that rely primarily on Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) are subject to positioning uncertainties. This paper presents an integrated GNSS (IGNSS) QOS prediction methodology that can provide navigation applications with quality of GNSS positions on prospective roads in a selected route ahead of time. As a part of the methodology, this paper discusses the technique for simulating signal paths using lidar data and signal propagation models for predicting levels of satellite visibility, positional availability, and positional accuracy. Experiments were conducted, and the predicted results by IGNSS QOS were evaluated against reference data (GPS coordinates) at various environment settings. Evaluation results indicated that IGNSS QOS can predict positioning quality with reasonably a high level of confidence in open sky locations and with some uncertainties in obstructed locations. {\copyright} 2012 American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing.} } @article{pittir12699, volume = {8}, number = {6}, month = {June}, title = {Short term synaptic depression imposes a frequency dependent filter on synaptic information transfer}, author = {R Rosenbaum and J Rubin and B Doiron}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS Computational Biology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12699/}, abstract = {Depletion of synaptic neurotransmitter vesicles induces a form of short term depression in synapses throughout the nervous system. This plasticity affects how synapses filter presynaptic spike trains. The filtering properties of short term depression are often studied using a deterministic synapse model that predicts the mean synaptic response to a presynaptic spike train, but ignores variability introduced by the probabilistic nature of vesicle release and stochasticity in synaptic recovery time. We show that this additional variability has important consequences for the synaptic filtering of presynaptic information. In particular, a synapse model with stochastic vesicle dynamics suppresses information encoded at lower frequencies more than information encoded at higher frequencies, while a model that ignores this stochasticity transfers information encoded at any frequency equally well. This distinction between the two models persists even when large numbers of synaptic contacts are considered. Our study provides strong evidence that the stochastic nature neurotransmitter vesicle dynamics must be considered when analyzing the information flow across a synapse. {\copyright} 2012 Rosenbaum et al.} } @article{pittir29860, volume = {13}, number = {S1}, month = {July}, author = {Robert Rosenbaum and Jonathan Rubin and Brent Doiron}, title = {Short term synaptic depression with stochastic vesicle dynamics imposes a high-pass filter on presynaptic information}, publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC}, journal = {BMC Neuroscience}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29860/} } @article{pittir22456, volume = {78}, number = {240}, month = {August}, author = {Mar{\'i}a Julia Rossi}, title = {Patricia Poblete Alday, \<i\>Bola{\~n}o: otra vuelta de tuerca\<i{$\backslash$}\> / Karim Benmiloud y Rafa{\"e}l Esteve (coords.), \<i\>Les astres noirs de Roberto Bola{\~n}o}, publisher = {Liverpool University Press}, year = {2012}, journal = {Revista Iberoamericana}, pages = {703 -- 706}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22456/} } @article{pittir18984, volume = {8}, number = {4}, month = {November}, author = {AJ Rotondi and M Spring and J Grady and R Simpson and J Luther and KZ Abebe and B Hanusa and GL Haas}, title = {Use of a fractional factorial experiment to assess the e-healthcare application design needs of persons with dual diagnosis}, journal = {Journal of Dual Diagnosis}, pages = {277 -- 282}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18984/}, abstract = {Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of 12 e-healthcare applications design variables on the usability of websites for persons with a dual diagnosis of substance use disorder and severe mental illness. Methods: A 2124 fractional factorial experimental design was employed to specify the designs of 256 websites. The designs of the websites were specified to systematically vary 12 design variables, which included the number of hyperlinks, words, and content areas on a page as well as the depth of the hierarchy, that is, the number of pages one needed to navigate to find desired content. Subjects (n = 149) were adults with a dual diagnosis of substance use disorder and severe mental illness. Each participant was asked sequentially to try to find six specific pieces of information on each of eight different websites. We recorded ability and time to find each piece of information, whether a task was solved, and the time to solve each task. Analyses were completed with polychotomous logistic regression for the number of tasks solved and mixed effect regression for the mean time to solution. In both, the dependency of observations within subjects was included in the analyses. Interactions between the 12 design variables were identified with classification and regression tree analyses. Results: One of the most important variables was the depth of a website's hierarchy. Other important variables were the number of words, hyperlinks, and navigational areas per page and the use of navigational lists or navigational memory aids. There were clear differences in the usability of certain designs for these participants. Some designs were quite poor (success rate of 16\%) and others quite effective (success rate of 86.5\%). Conclusions: Our findings indicate that there are ways to design web-based applications that are far more effective than others for persons with a dual diagnosis and that certain variables have a far larger impact on the usability of a design than others. These are the variables that the most attention should be devoted to in creating an effective design. {\copyright} 2012 Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.} } @article{pittir29804, volume = {7}, number = {1}, month = {November}, title = {Primary bladder adenocarcinoma versus metastatic colorectal adenocarcinoma: a persisting diagnostic challenge}, author = {S Roy and MA Smith and KM Cieply and MB Acquafondata and AV Parwani}, year = {2012}, journal = {Diagnostic Pathology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29804/}, abstract = {Aim: This study attempted to distinguish primary bladder adenocarcinoma (PBA) from metastatic colonic adenocarcinomas (MCA), which is a difficult diagnostic and clinical problem.Methods: Twenty-four cases of bladder adenocarcinomas (12 primary \& 12 metastatic colorectal) were included in the study with urothelial carcinoma (UC) and colonic adenocarcinoma (CA) as controls. A panel of immunohistochemical (IHC) stains along with fluorescence in-situ hybridization (FISH), using the UroVysion probe set, was performed.Results: The majority of the PBAs presented with advanced disease. Enteric histologic subtype was the most common morphological variant. Strong nuclear with cytoplasmic-membranous staining of {\ensuremath{\beta}}-catenin was seen in 75\% of MCA and only 16.7\% PBA ({\ensuremath{<}}10\% staining cells). Although abnormal nuclear staining with E-cadherin was seen in both PBA and MCA, it was more frequent in former. CK-7, CK-20, villin and CDX-2 stains were not helpful in distinguishing the two entities. FISH did not reveal any unique differences in chromosomal abnormality between the two groups.Conclusion: Although there was a statistically significant difference in {\ensuremath{\beta}}-catenin and E-cadherin staining between two groups, we did not find any IHC or FISH marker that was specific for PBA. Distinction between PBA and MCA remains a diagnostic problem and clinical correlation is vital before rendering a diagnosis.Virtual slides: The virtual slides for this article can be found here: http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/1393156268152357. {\copyright} 2012 Roy et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir18891, volume = {16}, number = {8}, month = {November}, author = {S Rueda and J Raboud and M Plankey and D Ostrow and C Mustard and SB Rourke and LP Jacobson and T Bekele and A Bayoumi and J Lavis and R Detels and AJ Silvestre}, title = {Labor force participation and health-related quality of life in HIV-positive men who have sex with men: The multicenter AIDS cohort study}, journal = {AIDS and Behavior}, pages = {2350 -- 2360}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18891/}, abstract = {Too many people with HIV have left the job market permanently and those with reduced work capacity have been unable to keep their jobs. There is a need to examine the health effects of labor force participation in people with HIV. This study presents longitudinal data from 1,415 HIV-positive men who have sex with men taking part in the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study. Generalized Estimating Equations show that employment is associated with better physical and mental health quality of life and suggests that there may be an adaptation process to the experience of unemployment. Post hoc analyses also suggest that people who are more physically vulnerable may undergo steeper health declines due to job loss than those who are generally healthier. However, this may also be the result of a selection effect whereby poor physical health contributes to unemployment. Policies that promote labor force participation may not only increase employment rates but also improve the health of people living with HIV. {\copyright} Springer Science+Business Media, LLC 2012.} } @incollection{pittir13223, booktitle = {Probability in Physics}, title = {Infinitely Challenging: Pitowsky?s Subjective Interpretation and the Physics of Infinite Systems}, author = {Laura Ruetsche and John Earman}, publisher = {Springer Berlin Heidelberg}, year = {2012}, pages = {219 -- 232}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13223/} } @article{pittir15883, volume = {7}, number = {8}, month = {August}, title = {Syndecan-2 is a novel target of insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 and is over-expressed in fibrosis}, author = {XD Ruiz and LR Mlakar and Y Yamaguchi and Y Su and AT Larregina and JM Pilewski and CA Feghali-Bostwick}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15883/}, abstract = {Extracellular matrix deposition and tissue scarring characterize the process of fibrosis. Transforming growth factor beta (TGF{\ensuremath{\beta}}) and Insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) have been implicated in the pathogenesis of fibrosis in various tissues by inducing mesenchymal cell proliferation and extracellular matrix deposition. We identified Syndecan-2 (SDC2) as a gene induced by TGF{\ensuremath{\beta}} in an IGFBP-3-dependent manner. TGF{\ensuremath{\beta}} induction of SDC2 mRNA and protein required IGFBP-3. IGFBP-3 independently induced production of SDC2 in primary fibroblasts. Using an ex-vivo model of human skin in organ culture expressing IGFBP-3, we demonstrate that IGFBP-3 induces SDC2 ex vivo in human tissue. We also identified Mitogen-activated protein kinase-interacting kinase (Mknk2) as a gene induced by IGFBP-3. IGFBP-3 triggered Mknk2 phosphorylation resulting in its activation. Mknk2 independently induced SDC2 in human skin. Since IGFBP-3 is over-expressed in fibrotic tissues, we examined SDC2 levels in skin and lung tissues of patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) and lung tissues of patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). SDC2 levels were increased in fibrotic dermal and lung tissues of patients with SSc and in lung tissues of patients with IPF. This is the first report describing elevated levels of SDC2 in fibrosis. Increased SDC2 expression is due, at least in part, to the activity of two pro-fibrotic factors, TGF{\ensuremath{\beta}} and IGFBP-3. {\copyright} 2012 Ruiz et al.} } @unpublished{pittir10754, month = {January}, title = {Studies of Memory of Chirality in Amide Radical Cyclizations }, author = {ANIRUDDHA SASMAL}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Memory of Chirality, N-tert-butyl substituted amides, 1,4-phenyl radical migration}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10754/}, abstract = {Radical cyclizations of amide substrates were performed to establish the Memory of Chirality (MOC). Amides with N-tert-butyl substituent due to their hindered rotation around C-N bond gives cyclized product with retention of configuration upon radical reaction condition. Chiral GC analysis and theoretical optical rotation calculation were used to verify the MOC. An unexpected 1,4-phenyl radical migration was also observed during the radical reaction of N-benzyl substituted amides.} } @unpublished{pittir10687, month = {January}, title = {Studies of Memory of Chirality in Amide Radical Cyclizations }, author = {ANIRUDDHA SASMAL}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Memory of Chirality, N-tert-butyl substituted amide, 1,4-Phenyl migration}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10687/}, abstract = {Radical cyclization of amide substrates was performed to establish the Memory of Chirality (MOC). Amides with N-tert-butyl substituent due to their hindered rotation around C-N bond gives cyclized product with retention of configuration upon radical reaction condition. Chiral GC analysis and theoretical optical rotation calculation were used to verify the MOC. An unexpected 1,4-phenyl radical migration was also observed during the radical reaction of N-benzyl substituted amides.} } @unpublished{pittir13020, month = {September}, title = {EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION OF INTERNAL COOLING PASSAGES ON GAS TURBINE BLADE WITH PIN-FINS AND RIB-TURBULATORS }, author = {SIN CHIEN SIW}, year = {2012}, keywords = {GAS TURBINE, INTERNAL COOLING, PIN-FINS, RIB-TURBULATORS}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13020/}, abstract = {Heat transfer and pressure characteristics in a rectangular channel are experimentally explored in detailed. The study consisted of 3 parts: 1) effects of detached pin space, 2) combined effects of detached pin space and ribs, and 3) effects of pin-fin geometry on heat transfer. The overall channel geometry (W=76.2 mm, E=25.4 mm) simulates an internal cooling passage of wide aspect ratio (3:1) in a gas turbine airfoil. With a given pin diameter, D=6.35 mm= ?E, three different pin-fin height-to-diameter ratios, H/D = 4, 3, and 2, were examined. Each of these three cases corresponds to a specific pin array geometry of detachment spacing (C) between the pin-tip and one of the endwalls, i.e. C/D = 0, 1, 2, respectively. The Reynolds number, based on the hydraulic diameter of the un-obstructed cross-section and the mean bulk velocity, ranges from 10,000 to 25,000. The experiment employs a hybrid technique based on transient liquid crystal imaging to obtain distributions of the local heat transfer coefficient over all of the participating surfaces, including the endwalls and all the pin elements. Pressure drop of each test case is also measured in order to evaluate the performance of each case based on a non-dimensional parameter, performance index, PI. Experimental results reveal that the presence of a detached space between the pin-tip and the endwall have a significant effect on the convective heat transfer and pressure loss in the channel. The presence of pin-to-endwall spacing promotes wall-flow interaction, generates additional separated shear layers, and augments turbulent transport. In general, an increase in detached spacing, or C/D leads to lower heat transfer enhancement and pressure drop. Addition of broken ribs and full ribs has significant impact on heat transfer enhancement at the endwall only. Due to the geometry of the ribs, that is relatively low as compared to the overall height of the channel, the pressure loss seems to be insensitive to the presence of the ribs. Results showed that ribs underperform as compared to the cases without ribs. Triangular pin-fins with sharp edges have the advantages of generating additional wakes and vortices compared to circular and semi-circular pin-fins which contribute to higher heat transfer at the downstream region. However, heat transfer at the leading region of the triangular pin-fins are lower due to a more streamlined geometry at the leading region and without the presence of horseshoe vortices, that is one of the major contributing factors of heat transfer enhancement for circular and semi-circular pin-fins. Having the largest number of pin-fins and arranged in a dense configuration, the TRI3 case has the highest overall heat transfer enhancement ranging between 3.5-3.8, that is approximately 5\%-20\% higher than that of the circular pin-fin array. As the TRI1 and TRI2 cases show comparable heat transfer enhancement, this suggests that the heat transfer performance of the triangular pin-fin arrays is insensitive to the transverse spacing. In addition, more uniform heat transfer is also observed on the endwall and neighboring pin-fins in all triangular shaped pin-fin arrays. The semi-circular pin-fin array has the lowest heat transfer performance ranging from 2.7-3.4. However, triangular pin-fin arrays give the highest pressure loss due to the largest induced form drag among all cases, while circular pin-fin array exhibits the lowest pressure loss. } } @unpublished{pittir13540, month = {August}, title = {THE N-END RULE PATHWAY: MOLECULAR PRINCIPLES OF STRUCTURAL RECOGNITION AND RATIONAL DESIGN OPPORTUNITIES}, author = {SHASHI KANTH SRIRAM}, year = {2012}, keywords = {PROTEIN DEGRADATION, UBIQUITIN, N-END RULE PATHWAY, UBIQUITIN-PROTEASOME SYSTEM, UPS, UBR PROTEINS, UBR INHIBITORS, FRAGMENT-BASED DRUG DESIGN, FBDD, RATIONAL DESIGN, UBR STRUCTURE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13540/}, abstract = {The N-end rule relates the regulation of the in vivo half-life of a protein to the identity of its N-terminal residue. A set of N-terminal degradation signals is targeted by the recognition components (N-recognins) of the N-end rule pathway. Recent reports on the N-end rule substrates, components, functions and structural basis of substrate recognition have provided critical insights. The N-end rule pathway is now emerging as a major ubiquitin-dependent cellular proteolytic system. The scope of this dissertation is to understand the structural principles of substrate recognition and utilize this structural basis to provide insights on the functions and underlying mechanisms of the N-end rule pathway. We were also interested in exploring the N-end rule pathway as an intracellular target for heterodivalent interactions. We discuss and demonstrate the basis of thermodynamics and kinetics principles that govern these interactions between the N-recognins and the heterodivalent ligands. We further pursued to exploit these principles in the design and development of high affinity ligands that target the N-end rule pathway.} } @unpublished{pittir14249, month = {September}, title = {Effects of Longitudinal Profiles of Pediatric End-stage Liver Disease (PELD) Scores on Post-transplant Survival}, author = {Zhaowen SUN}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Liver Transplant; Pediatric End-Stage Liver Disease; Latent Group-Based Trajectory Model; Graft Failure Rate}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14249/}, abstract = {Liver transplant has long been the ultimate treatment for patients with end-stage liver disease. For pediatric patients under 12 years old, the Pediatric End-Stage Liver Disease (PELD) scoring system has been developed and implemented for almost 10 years as an estimation of 90-day mortality pre-transplantation. PELD score has been used as an appropriate tool to discriminate patients when allocating organs, yet as a potential predictor of post-transplant graft failure, its effect has been somewhat inconsistent. In previous studies, researchers tended to use single measured PELD score at the time of listing or at transplant in predicting graft survival, while in clinical practice PELD scores are often calculated multiple times between listing and transplant to monitor patients? disease status. To make the most use of the information of the repeated PELD measures, we propose to employ latent group-based trajectory models to explore the underlying distinct patterns of the PELD scores and then integrate such longitudinal profiles into survival analysis to examine its effects as a predictor of graft survival. Public health significance: This study will provide both the medical and public health communities with important information that will facilitate their evidence-based practice concerning pediatric patients in need of liver transplant. Researchers will get to see the big picture regarding this health issue since national data have been used to derive the results. They will have a better idea of patients? disease status and prognosis and will be able to make treatment or intervention decisions with more confidence.} } @article{pittir29891, volume = {16}, number = {3}, author = {Majed Safiyeh and David Huang}, title = {New strategies to manage complicated pleural effusions}, publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC}, journal = {Critical Care}, pages = {312 -- 312}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29891/} } @article{pittir16054, volume = {7}, number = {9}, month = {September}, title = {The Zebrafish Homologue of the Human DYT1 Dystonia Gene Is Widely Expressed in CNS Neurons but Non-Essential for Early Motor System Development}, author = {JJ Sager and GE Torres and EA Burton}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16054/}, abstract = {DYT1 dystonia is caused by mutation of the TOR1A gene, resulting in the loss of a single glutamic acid residue near the carboxyl terminal of TorsinA. The neuronal functions perturbed by TorsinA[{\ensuremath{\Delta}}E] are a major unresolved issue in understanding the pathophysiology of dystonia, presenting a critical roadblock to developing effective treatments. We identified and characterized the zebrafish homologue of TOR1A, as a first step towards elucidating the functions of TorsinA in neurons, in vivo, using the genetically-manipulable zebrafish model. The zebrafish genome was found to contain a single alternatively-spliced tor1 gene, derived from a common ancestral locus shared with the dual TOR1A and TOR1B paralogues found in tertrapods. tor1 was expressed ubiquitously during early embryonic development and in multiple adult tissues, including the CNS. The 2.1 kb tor1 mRNA encodes Torsin1, which is 59\% identical and 78\% homologous to human TorsinA. Torsin1 was expressed as major 45 kDa and minor 47 kDa glycoproteins, within the cytoplasm of neurons and neuropil throughout the CNS. Similar to previous findings relating to human TorsinA, mutations of the ATP hydrolysis domain of Torsin1 resulted in relocalization of the protein in cultured cells from the endoplasmic reticulum to the nuclear envelope. Zebrafish embryos lacking tor1 during early development did not show impaired viability, overt morphological abnormalities, alterations in motor behavior, or developmental defects in the dopaminergic system. Torsin1 is thus non-essential for early development of the motor system, suggesting that important CNS functions may occur later in development, consistent with the critical time window in late childhood when dystonia symptoms usually emerge in DYT1 patients. The similarities between Torsin1 and human TorsinA in domain organization, expression pattern, and cellular localization suggest that the zebrafish will provide a useful model to understand the neuronal functions of Torsins in vivo.} } @unpublished{pittir13637, month = {August}, title = {USING ZEBRAFISH AS A MODEL SYSTEM FOR DYT1 DYSTONIA}, author = {Jonathan Sager}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Zebrafish Dystonia Animal Model}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13637/}, abstract = {Dystonia is characterized by sustained involuntary muscle contractions producing repetitive twisting movements and abnormal postures. DYT1 dystonia, an early-onset primary dystonia, is caused by a trinucleotide deletion in the TOR1A gene, resulting in the loss of a single glutamic acid in the TorsinA protein. It is unknown how this mutation causes dysfunction of CNS motor circuits resulting in dystonia. The aims of this work were: (i) characterize the zebrafish homolog of human TOR1A in order to elucidate the functions of Torsins in vivo; (ii) generate transgenic zebrafish models of DYT1 dystonia suitable for mechanistic and drug discovery studies. An ancestral tor1 gene found in the genomes of several fish species was duplicated at the root of the tetrapod lineage. In zebrafish, tor1 is expressed as two isoforms with unique 5' exons. The amino acid sequences of both Torsin1 isoforms are 59\% identical and 78\% homologous to human TorsinA. A novel antibody was generated against Torsin1, and immunoreactivity was detected broadly in zebrafish CNS neurons. Introduction of ATP-hydrolysis abrogating mutations in the Walker B domain of Torsin1 caused a relocalization of the protein from the endoplasmic reticulum to the nuclear envelope in vitro, similar to findings with human TorsinA. Transient knockdown of tor1 expression during embryonic and early larval development did not produce a detectable cellular or behavioral phenotype, suggesting that essential functions of tor1 occur later in development, or that compensatory functions are provided by other Torsin family proteins. Co-expression of Torsin1 and the dystonia-associated human mutant TorsinA caused Torsin1 to relocalize to the nuclear envelope, strongly suggesting that human TorsinA and zebrafish Torsin1 interact. In view of this interaction, and the proposed dominant-negative mechanism whereby the DYT1 mutant causes clinical disease, we generated stable transgenic zebrafish in which the dystonia-related human TorsinA[{\ensuremath{\Delta}}E] mutant was expressed in neurons of the zebrafish CNS. These transgenic animals exhibited a transient, juvenile-onset hypokinetic phenotype, beginning around one month of development and lasting for approximately one week. Future studies using these transgenic zebrafish will aim to elucidate the physiological and molecular basis of this phenotype and its relation to dystonia.} } @article{pittir13359, volume = {100}, number = {4}, month = {October}, author = {E Saghafi and NH Tannery and BA Epstein and S Alman and C Tomer}, title = {Development of a post-master's online certificate in health sciences librarianship}, journal = {Journal of the Medical Library Association}, pages = {310 -- 313}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13359/} } @unpublished{pittir12294, month = {October}, title = {IDENTIFCATION OF THE CAUSES OF CYTOKINESIS FAILURE IN CANCER CELLS}, author = {Ruta Sahasrabudhe}, year = {2012}, keywords = {cancer, cytokinesis, MLCK, Aurora B kinase}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12294/}, abstract = {Tetraploidy and chromosomal instability are common phenotypes of malignant cells and cytokinesis failure is a known source of tetraploidy. However, the causes of cytokinesis failure are not yet identified. An essential step in the process of cytokinesis is phosphorylation of myosin regulatory light chain (MLC), required for actin?myosin interaction and the formation of the cleavage furrow. Our data indicate that cancer cells are deficient in MLC phosphorylation and this deficiency is the cause of cytokinesis failure. Myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) is a key enzyme that phosphorylates MLC during cytokinesis and is inhibited in cancer cells. Aurora B kinase is an essential regulator of cytokinesis that is commonly over-expressed in cancer cells and can phosphorylate MLCK in vitro. Therefore we hypothesize that Aurora B over-expression is the cause of MLCK inhibition in cancer cells. Consistent with our hypothesis, we demonstrate that Aurora B kinase indeed is an MLCK inhibitor in vitro and in cultured mammalian cells. Cytokinesis failure resulting from Aurora B over-expression can largely be suppressed by constitutively active MLCK or phosphomimetic MLC and reducing protein levels of Aurora B in cancer cells increases MLCK activity and decreases cytokinesis failure. These data thus describe a novel pathway that drives Aurora B induced cytokinesis failure. Cytokinesis failure is often observed in only a subset of cancer cells but the trigger for this divisional failure in that subset is unknown. One strong possibility is the presence of lingering chromatin at the cleavage site that has been previously proposed to block cytokinesis completion. However, the mechanism linking lingering chromatin and cytokinesis failure is still a mystery. In this study we demonstrate that lingering chromatin causes cytokinesis failure by inducing over-expression of Aurora B and the resultant inhibition of MLCK and phosphorylated MLC. Together, my results define a novel pathway for Aurora B mediated regulation of cytokinesis and contribute to our understanding of the genomic destabilizing events of tumorigenesis.} } @unpublished{pittir12102, month = {June}, title = {COMPONENTS OF SHORT-TERM SUCCESS IN PROJECTS TARGETING ILLEGAL LOGGING}, author = {Michelle Sahlhoff}, year = {2012}, keywords = {illegal logging, corruption, Brazil, Indonesia, Uganda}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12102/}, abstract = {Illegal logging, perpetuated by corruption, is a serious problem in developing countries, specifically Brazil, Indonesia, and Uganda. Development projects focused on fighting illegal logging have not adequately been analyzed to assess the approaches taken in fighting corruption in addition to an academic literature review. Through a literature review and analysis of development problems, this research focused on the roles of the project donor, implementer, cost, duration, participants, levels of participation, mechanisms, and success. Next, a summary of observations for success from the projects were compiled to provide a thorough understanding of projects fighting illegal logging in the three focus countries. The results of the literature review produced causes and effects of illegal logging in states, as well as recommended methods for combatting and preventing illegal logging with a focus on the corruption that can drive illegal logging. The analysis of reviewed projects observed that none of the components identified appeared to be strongly necessary or unnecessary for a project to be successful or unsuccessful across countries, but some useful observations within countries were identified. The summary of reasons for the successfulness and unsuccessfulness of projects produced five themes: ineffective relocation, successful economic mechanisms, coordination, satellite technology, and appropriate community management. Building on this, a theoretical framework was created that prepared hypotheses focusing on state capacity, classification of corruption, and implementing partner, as well as focusing on coordination and close relationships with stakeholders while utilizing satellite imagery to function as a check to ensure integrity between all actors.} } @article{pittir29848, volume = {11}, number = {1}, title = {Comparison of vildagliptin twice daily vs. sitagliptin once daily using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM): Crossover pilot study (J-VICTORIA study)}, author = {Masaya Sakamoto and Rimei Nishimura and Taiga Irako and Daisuke Tsujino and Kiyotaka Ando and Kazunori Utsunomiya}, year = {2012}, pages = {92 -- 92}, journal = {Cardiovascular Diabetology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29848/} } @article{pittir17677, volume = {8}, number = {2}, month = {April}, author = {Ankur Sakaria and Matthew Singer and David Uhrmacher}, title = {\#140ToWinIt}, publisher = {University Library System, University of Pittsburgh}, year = {2012}, journal = {Pitt Political Review}, pages = {1 -- 8}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17677/}, abstract = {{\ensuremath{<}}jats:p{\ensuremath{>}}The Internet has transformed from being almost insubstantial in political campaigns to being essential in only ten years. The elections of 2008 and 2010 have revolutionized the way that campaigns reach out to voters, with a new benchmark set by President Barack Obama and his campaign team in 2008. In the 2010 midterm elections, Republicans in Congress were able to match Obama?s social media success, and voters turned out in their favor. By delving into the uses of social media in those campaigns, we can evaluate how Republicans in the upcoming 2012 campaign are sharing the same success.{\ensuremath{<}}/jats:p{\ensuremath{>}}} } @article{pittir22401, volume = {14}, number = {5}, month = {May}, author = {MV Salgado and EJ P{\'e}rez-stable and BA Primack and CP Kaplan and RM Mejia and SE Gregorich and E Alderete}, title = {Association of media literacy with cigarette smoking among youth in Jujuy, Argentina}, journal = {Nicotine and Tobacco Research}, pages = {516 -- 521}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22401/}, abstract = {Introduction: Latin America has the highest prevalence of tobacco use by youth. Higher media literacy, defined as the ability to analyze and evaluate media messages, has been associated with lower smoking among youth in the United States. The objective of this study was to determine whether media literacy related to smoking is independently associated with current smoking and susceptibility to future smoking in a sample of mostly indigenous youth in Jujuy, Argentina. Methods: In 2006, a self-administered survey was conducted among 10th grade students sampled from 27 randomly selected urban and rural schools in Jujuy. Survey items measured smoking behavior (ever, never, and current), susceptibility to future smoking among never-smokers (definitely not accept a cigarette from a friend or to smoke in the future), 5 items assessing smoking media literacy (SML), and risk factors for smoking. Results: Of the 3,470 respondents, 1,170 (34\%) reported having smoked in the previous 30 days (current). Of the 1,430 students who had never smoked, 912 (64\%) were susceptible to future smoking. High media literacy was present in 38\%. Using multiple logistic regression, fully adjusted models showed that high media literacy was significantly associated as a protective factor of being a current smoker (odds ratio [OR] = 0.81; 95\% CI = 0.67-0.97) and of being susceptible to future smoking (OR = 0.73; 95\% CI = 0.58-0.92) among those who had never smoked. Conclusions: Among youth in Jujuy, higher SML was significantly associated with both lower current smoking and susceptibility to future smoking. Teaching SML may be a valuable component in a prevention intervention in this population. {\copyright} The Author 2011. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco. All rights reserved.} } @article{pittir24385, volume = {109}, number = {24}, month = {June}, author = {H Salje and J Lessler and TP Endy and FC Curriero and RV Gibbons and A Nisalak and S Nimmannitya and S Kalayanarooj and RG Jarman and SJ Thomas and DS Burke and DAT Cummings}, title = {Revealing the microscale spatial signature of dengue transmission and immunity in an urban population}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, pages = {9535 -- 9538}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/24385/}, abstract = {It is well-known that the distribution of immunity in a population dictates the future incidence of infectious disease, but this process is generally understood at individual or macroscales. For example, herd immunity to multiple pathogens has been observed at national and city levels. However, the effects of population immunity have not previously been shown at scales smaller than the city (e.g., neighborhoods). In particular, no study has shownlong-termeffects of population immunity at scales consistent with the spatial scale of person-to-person transmission. Here, we use the location of dengue patients' homes in Bangkok with the serotype of the infecting pathogen to investigate the spatiotemporal distribution of disease risk at small spatial scales over a 5-y period. We find evidence for localized transmission at distances of under 1 km. We also observe patterns of spatiotemporal dependence consistent with the expected impacts of homotypic immunity, heterotypic immunity, and immune enhancement of disease at these distances. Our observations indicate that immunological memory of dengue serotypes occurs at the neighborhood level in this large urban setting. These methods have broad applications to studying the spatiotemporal structure of disease risk where pathogen serotype or genetic information is known.} } @article{pittir18512, volume = {35}, number = {2}, month = {December}, author = {Alejandro Sanchez Lopera}, title = {Orlando Fals Borda: la conmoci{\'o}n del rostro de las ciencias sociales}, publisher = {Universidad Nacional de Colombia}, year = {2012}, journal = {Revista Colombiana de Sociolog{\'i}a}, pages = {195 -- 207}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18512/}, abstract = {El art{\'i}culo presenta un retrato antibiogr{\'a}fco del soci{\'o}logo colombiano Orlando Fals Borda (1925-2008), enfocado, principalmente, en los efectos sociales de su pensamiento. Evita capturar su experiencia bajo el signo del ?maestro?, con una herencia por legar.Por el contrario, inserta esa experiencia en procesos an{\'o}nimos y colectivos, y narra un segmento de la transformaci{\'o}n del semblante de las ciencias sociales en Colombia y parte de Am{\'e}rica Latina en el siglo XX.} } @article{pittir17056, volume = {X}, number = {37}, month = {October}, author = {Alejandro Sanchez Lopera}, title = {Por una {\'e}tica del desorden en Am{\'e}rica Latina}, publisher = {Universidad Central IESCO}, year = {2012}, journal = {Nomadas}, pages = {105 -- 119}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17056/}, abstract = {Se postula aqu{\'i} la propuesta de una liberaci{\'o}n de ciertas im{\'a}genes de pensamiento en Latinoam{\'e}rica {--}fundamentalmente de la idea de d{\'e}ficit, desde la convicci{\'o}n de carecer de algo que nos impide llegar a ser{--} como disidencia frente a las ideas fijas que en Am{\'e}rica Latina encapsularon la reflexi{\'o}n filos{\'o}fica en la conciencia. Los textos Hegel y yo de Jos{\'e} Revueltas y 2666 de Roberto Bola{\~n}o operan como forma de abrir el archivo del sujeto y construir una relaci{\'o}n afirmativa con la filosof{\'i}a. El art{\'i}culo concluye con una apuesta por la {\'e}tica del desorden como v{\'i}a hacia una subjetivaci{\'o}n in{\'e}dita de Am{\'e}rica Latina.} } @unpublished{pittir11449, month = {July}, title = {Leukocyte Telomere Length and Lens Tansparency as Biomarkers in Population Studies of Human Aging}, author = {Jason Sanders}, year = {2012}, keywords = {aging, epidemiology, public health}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11449/}, abstract = {Biomarkers of aging are indicators of characteristics of an organism which change over time. Validating aging biomarkers will enable researchers to better understand aging mechanisms and design interventions which promote healthy aging. This dissertation uses population-based cohorts to explore two emerging biomarkers of human aging, leukocyte telomere length (LTL) and lens transparency. Short LTL records systemic oxidation and inflammation and contributes to cellular senescence. Previous studies focused on its association with diagnosed age-related chronic disease in one physiologic system and have generated equivocal results. Because disease can be undiagnosed and exist in several tissues simultaneously, previous research may have underestimated associations with LTL. We studied the association of LTL with an index of disease burden, which tabulates age-related chronic disease in five physiologic systems regardless of diagnosis. To the extent that an index across systems might capture an underlying propensity to age-related changes in all systems, a marker of fundamental aging processes such as LTL should be associated with it. We show LTL is associated with this index of disease burden. Thus, LTL might indicate widespread incremental changes in structure or function in older adults independent of diagnosed disease. Lens transparency may reflect systemic load of molecular glycation and denaturation, which have been associated with aging. Correlates of reduced lens transparency in humans are undefined. We studied the association of lens transparency to markers of aging and disease. We found that older adults with highly transparent lenses have longer LTL, lower prevalence of diabetes, better cognition, and lower odds of an ApoE4 allele, the strongest genetic risk factor for Alzheimer?s disease. Transparency is unrelated to risk factors for atherosclerosis or non-invasively measured vascular disease. What are the public health implications of this work? First, LTL may aid in the development of screening tools and interventions to prevent age-related disease simultaneously in multiple physiologic systems. Second, lens transparency may help detect amyloid-related brain pathology, which is vital to developing interventions to slow brain aging. Future epidemiologic research should focus on correlating changes in LTL and transparency to changes in age-related phenotypes and the ability of LTL and transparency to predict age-related outcomes.} } @unpublished{pittir12224, month = {September}, title = {Electron Density Determination and Bonding in Tetragonal Binary Intermetallics by Convergent Beam Electron Diffraction}, author = {Xiahan Sang}, year = {2012}, keywords = {convergent beam electron diffraction, bonding, electron density, intermetallics, multi-beam off-zone axis condition, Debye Waller factors, structure factors}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12224/}, abstract = {Intermetallics offer unique property combinations often superior to those of more conventional solid solution alloys of identical composition. Understanding of bonding in intermetallics would greatly accelerate development of intermetallics for advanced and high performance engineering applications. Tetragonal intermetallics L10 ordered TiAl, FePd and FePt are used as model systems to experimentally measure their electron densities using quantitative convergent beam electron diffraction (QCBED) method and then compare details of the 3d-4d (FePd) and 3d-5d (FePt) electron interactions to elucidate their role on properties of the respective ferromagnetic L10-ordered intermetallics FePd and FePt. A new multi-beam off-zone axis condition QCBED method has been developed to increase sensitivity of CBED patterns to change of structure factors and the anisotropic Debye-Waller (DW) factors. Unprecedented accuracy and precision in structure and DW factor measurements has been achieved by acquiring CBED patterns using beam-sample geometry that ensures strong dynamical interaction between the fast electrons and the periodic potential in the crystalline samples. This experimental method has been successfully applied to diamond cubic Si, and chemically ordered B2 cubic NiAl, tetragonal L10 ordered TiAl and FePd. The accurate and precise experimental DW and structure factors for L10 TiAl and FePd allow direct evaluation of computer calculations using the current state of the art density functional theory (DFT) based electron structure modeling. The experimental electron density difference map of L10 TiAl shows that the DFT calculations describe bonding to a sufficient accuracy for s- and p- electrons interaction, e. g., the Al-layer. However, it indicate significant quantitative differences to the experimental measurements for the 3d-3d interactions of the Ti atoms, e.g. in the Ti layers. The DFT calculations for L10 FePd also show that the current DFT approximations insufficiently describe the interaction between Fe-Fe (3d-3d), Fe-Pd (3d-4d) and Pd-Pd (4d-4d) electrons, which indicates the necessity to evaluate applicability of different DFT approximations, and also provides experimental data for the development of new DFT approximation that better describes transition metal based intermetallic systems. } } @unpublished{pittir12205, month = {September}, title = {On Hydrocracking of Vacuum Residues in Slurry Reactors}, author = {Mariela Sanoja}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Absorption Vacuum Residue Hydrocracking Agitated Reactors Mass Transfer Coefficient Solubility}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12205/}, abstract = {The equilibrium solubility (C*) and liquid-side mass transfer coefficient (kLa) were measured for H2 in four liquids, two vacuum residues (A and B); and two mixtures (vacuum residue B + liquid paraffins and vacuum residue B + liquid paraffins + molten wax). The data were measured in the presence and absence of solid particles (activated carbon) in one-liter agitated autoclave operating in a gas-inducing mode. The effect of operating variables, including pressure (27.5?55bar), temperature (423?623K), mixing speed (20?33Hz), and activated carbon concentration (0-40wt \%) on kLa and C* values were statistically investigated using the Central Composite Statistical Design technique. The kLa values were obtained using the Transient Physical Gas Absorption technique and the C* values were calculated at the thermodynamic equilibrium. The experimental data showed that C* values of hydrogen in the four liquids increase linearly with pressure at constant temperature following Henry?s law. The C* values also increased with temperature at constant pressure and the temperature effect was modeled using an Arrhenius-type equation. The kLa values of H2 in the four liquids strongly increased with temperature and mixing speed, and slightly increased with H2 partial pressure. The kLa values, however, decreased with increasing solid concentrations in the vacuum residues A and B. Statistical correlations and empirical correlations, using dimensionless numbers, were developed to predict kLa values of H2 in the liquids used in the presence and absence of solid particles in the gas-inducing slurry agitated reactor. The kinetic rate constants proposed by Sanchez at al.[1] for hydrocracking of vacuum residue at 380, 400 and 420oC were used in a simple kinetic model using a series of CSTRs to calculate the residue conversion and the VGO, distillate, naphtha and gaseous products concentrations and molar flow rates. For a series arrangements of 4-CSTRs(3-m inside diameter and 3-m height), operating at 400oC with an LHSV of 0.33h-1 corresponding to an inlet liquid superficial velocity of 0.99m s-1, the residue conversion reached 91.8\%. However, for the same arrangement at 400oC with an LHSV of 1.5h-1 corresponding to an inlet liquid superficial velocity of 4.5m s-1, the residue conversion was only 50.36\%.} } @unpublished{pittir10770, month = {January}, title = {Quality-Control Study Evaluating the Identification, Family History Collection, and Genetic Counseling Referral of Individuals At-Risk for HNPCC (Lynch Syndrome) Within the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center System and Applications to a State-Wide Referral System }, author = {Andrew Sardella}, year = {2012}, keywords = {HNPCC, Lynch Syndrome, Genetic Counseling, referral, UPMC, state-wide}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10770/}, abstract = {Background: Hereditary Non-Polyposis Colorectal Cancer (HNPCC) is a dominantly inherited syndrome predisposing individuals to cancers of the colon and other organs. HNPCC is caused by mutations in one of four mismatch repair proteins responsible for DNA repair. Current guidelines on HNPCC screening have focused on administering molecular testing on tumors of at-risk groups affected with colorectal cancer. Criteria for molecular testing include both tumor pathology and personal and family history of cancer. Abnormal tumor test results warrant referral for genetic counseling and germline testing. Public Health Significance: Identifying individuals with HNPCC is crucial for screening and surgical purposes in order to reduce mortality and morbidity. Additionally, at-risk family members can undergo germline testing to determine whether increased surveillance or surgery is warranted. Results: The study revealed that 45.3\% (total n=44) of patients warranting genetic counseling attended at a genetic counseling appointment within the UPMC system. Patients who had a personal or family history of cancer were more likely to attend a genetic counseling session than individuals who had pathological or age dependant risk factors (p = 0.0014; OR = 4.8; 95\% CI: 1.78, 12.95). Furthermore, patients with a family history of colorectal cancer were more likely to attend a genetic counseling session than individuals whose families displayed a different type of cancer. The average time interval between molecular tumor testing and genetic counseling was approximately 63 days. Finally, 24\% and 21.5\% of individuals with abnormal tumor results were identified independently by family history and pathological criteria, respectively. Conclusions: This study indicates that improvements can be made in genetic counseling referral process for at-risk HNPCC individuals within the UPMC system. Several factors were potentially associated with attending a genetic counseling session including: the presence of personal or family cancer history, and type of cancers in the family. Timing may also impact attendance with a genetic counselor. The study reveals that there is an opportunity for more detailed family history collection within the UPMC system, from which health care practitioners can identify and address factors that may influence patient compliance with genetic counseling referrals and clinical management. These results can also inform development of a state-wide screening program.} } @article{pittir16728, volume = {3}, number = {2}, month = {January}, title = {Minimally invasive double lung transplantation technique (Anteroaxillary approach)}, author = {B Sareyyupoglu and O Yucel and Y Toyoda}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of Clinical and Analytical Medicine}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16728/}, abstract = {Lung transplantation has been performed through several approaches in the past. Sternothoracotomy is the most widely used approach for double lung transplantation. Although bilateral anterolateral thoracotomy for double lung transplantation has been described in the past, this approach has not widely adopted worldwide. The 'anteroaxillary approach' utilizes a limited incision compared to others, preserves sternal anatomy as well as thoracic arteries, and provides an excellent exposure to hilum. We would like to present our standard approach at University of Pittsburgh through anteroaxillary incision.} } @unpublished{pittir12184, month = {October}, title = {Probing the Structure and Dynamics of a Protein-DNA Complex Using Electron Spin Resonance}, author = {Jessica Sarver}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Electron Spin Resonance, Molecular Dynamics Simulation, Protein-DNA Complex, Spin Label}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12184/}, abstract = {In this thesis, we employ site-directed spin labeling and electron spin resonance to probe the changes in structure and dynamics for different EcoRI-DNA complexes. EcoRI is a restriction endonuclease that, due to its high binding specificity, is a model system for investigating protein-DNA interactions. Distance constraints were previously obtained for spin-labeled mutants of EcoRI in complex with DNA. However, the length and flexibility of the spin label convolute these distance measurements, making it difficult to extract biologically relevant information. We performed molecular dynamics (MD) simulations on the spin-labeled EcoRI-DNA complex to understand the packing and dynamics of the spin label. We show that correlated distance constraints can be leveraged with MD simulations to learn about the preferred conformers of the spin label on sites in an {\ensuremath{\alpha}}-helix and a {\ensuremath{\beta}}-strand. In addition, we used the simulations to gain information on the backbone motion at the spin-labeled site by measuring the C{\ensuremath{\alpha}}-C{\ensuremath{\alpha}} distributions. Dynamics and order may play a role in the DNA binding specificity of EcoRI. We performed continuous wave (CW) experiments to measure the dynamics and order of EcoRI bound to its specific, miscognate (one base pair mismatch) and nonspecific ({\ensuremath{>}}2 base pair mismatch) DNA sites. We analyzed CW spectra for three EcoRI complexes spin-labeled at various sites in a region of the protein that is believed to play a role in the binding specificity of EcoRI. Simulation of the spectra provided details on the change in dynamics and order in the different complexes. We found the protein-DNA interface to be most sensitive to the changes between the complexes. Spin-labeled sites further from the DNA were found to show little variation in dynamics between the complexes. Lastly, this thesis discusses the comparison of two distance measurement techniques for a metal-nitroxide system. We performed distance measurements between a bound Cu2+ and a spin label on two polyalanine peptides of differing length using DEER and relaxation-based saturation recovery experiments. By comparing the results of both measurements, we show that the relaxation-based technique is biased to shorter average distances. This work highlights the advantages of using DEER to perform metal-nitroxide distance measurements. } } @article{pittir29909, volume = {5}, month = {June}, title = {Fibroblasts from phenotypically normal palmar fascia exhibit molecular profiles highly similar to fibroblasts from active disease in Dupuytren's Contracture}, author = {L Satish and WA Laframboise and S Johnson and L Vi and A Njarlangattil and C Raykha and JM Krill-Burger and PH Gallo and DB O'Gorman and BS Gan and ME Baratz and GD Ehrlich and S Kathju}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Medical Genomics}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29909/}, abstract = {Background: Dupuytren's contracture (DC) is a fibroproliferative disorder characterized by the progressive development of a scar-like collagen-rich cord that affects the palmar fascia of the hand and leads to digital flexion contractures. DC is most commonly treated by surgical resection of the diseased tissue, but has a high reported recurrence rate ranging from 27\% to 80\%. We sought to determine if the transcriptomic profiles of fibroblasts derived from DC-affected palmar fascia, adjacent phenotypically normal palmar fascia, and non-DC palmar fascial tissues might provide mechanistic clues to understanding the puzzle of disease predisposition and recurrence in DC. Methods. To achieve this, total RNA was obtained from fibroblasts derived from primary DC-affected palmar fascia, patient-matched unaffected palmar fascia, and palmar fascia from non-DC patients undergoing carpal tunnel release (6 patients in each group). These cells were grown on a type-1 collagen substrate (to better mimic their in vivo environments). Microarray analyses were subsequently performed using Illumina BeadChip arrays to compare the transcriptomic profiles of these three cell populations. Data were analyzed using Significance Analysis of Microarrays (SAM v3.02), hierarchical clustering, concordance mapping and Venn diagram. Results: We found that the transcriptomic profiles of DC-disease fibroblasts and fibroblasts from unaffected fascia of DC patients exhibited a much greater overlap than fibroblasts derived from the palmar fascia of patients undergoing carpal tunnel release. Quantitative real time RT-PCR confirmed the differential expression of select genes validating the microarray data analyses. These data are consistent with the hypothesis that predisposition and recurrence in DC may stem, at least in part, from intrinsic similarities in the basal gene expression of diseased and phenotypically unaffected palmar fascia fibroblasts. These data also demonstrate that a collagen-rich environment differentially alters gene expression in these cells. In addition, Ingenuity pathway analysis of the specific biological pathways that differentiate DC-derived cells from carpal tunnel-derived cells has identified the potential involvement of microRNAs in this fibroproliferative disorder. Conclusions: These data show that the transcriptomic profiles of DC-disease fibroblasts and fibroblasts from unaffected palmar fascia in DC patients are highly similar, and differ significantly from the transcriptomic profiles of fibroblasts from the palmar fascia of patients undergoing carpal tunnel release. {\copyright} 2012 Satish et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir29823, volume = {13}, month = {January}, title = {All-cause and cause-specific mortality associated with diabetes in prevalent hemodialysis patients.}, author = {A Sattar and C Argyropoulos and L Weissfeld and N Younas and L Fried and JA Kellum and M Unruh}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC nephrology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29823/}, abstract = {Diabetes is the most common risk factor for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and has been associated with increased risk of death. In order to better understand the influence of diabetes on outcomes in hemodialysis, we examine the risk of death of diabetic participants in the HEMODIALYSIS (HEMO) study. In the HEMO study, 823 (44.6\%) participants were classified as diabetic. Using the Schoenfeld residual test, we found that diabetes violated the proportional hazards assumption. Based on this result, we fit two non-proportional hazard models: Cox's time varying covariate model (Cox-TVC) that allows the hazard for diabetes to change linearly with time and Gray's time-varying coefficient model. Using the Cox-TVC, the hazard ratio (HR) for diabetes increased with each year of follow up (p = 0.02) for all cause mortality. Using Gray's model, the HR for diabetes ranged from 1.41 to 2.21 (p {\ensuremath{<}}0.01). The HR for diabetes using Gray's model exhibited a different pattern, being relatively stable at 1.5 for the first 3 years in the study and increasing afterwards. Risk of death associated with diabetes in ESRD increases over time and suggests that an increasing risk of death among diabetes may be underappreciated when using conventional survival models.} } @unpublished{pittir11698, month = {June}, title = {Analyzing Building Energy Models from a Life Cycle Perspective}, author = {Christi Saunders}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Life Cycle Assessment Buildings Energy Modeling Life Cycle Energy}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11698/}, abstract = {Life cycle assessment (LCA) is a quantitative tool used to evaluate the environmental impacts of products or processes. With respect to buildings, LCA can be used to evaluate the environmental impacts of an entire building life cycle. Currently, LCA in the building area is used in a limited capacity, and primarily for selecting building products. In order to determine the causality for the lack of whole building LCAs, focus groups with members of the architecture, engineering, construction (AEC) communities were held. This research ascertains first the current level of knowledge of LCA in the AEC community and then discusses the benefits and barriers to the practice of LCA. From the focus group results, the most important benefit to LCA was: Provides information about environmental impacts. The results did not identify a prominent barrier; however, building-related metrics were ascertained to be one of the more crucial barriers. One limitation of LCA is the uncertainty associated with its results, which in this research is exemplified in the correlation between LCA and building energy models. In past research, results from energy models have been utilized to calculate life cycle operating energy of buildings in order to predict environmental impacts through LCA. Due to assumptions and variations between input data, past research has indicated substantial error rates in energy model results. In order to employ a life cycle perspective, the relationship between total life cycle energy use and energy modeling results has been studied. The main question guiding this research was: what is the acceptable error rate between predicted and actual life cycle energy use? Three different energy modeling programs with varying levels of detail were utilized to generate energy data for a case study, low energy home. EnergyPlus, Energy-10, and GBS all indicated error rates of 41\%, 70\%, and 20\% respectively regarding life cycle primary energy consumption. } } @article{pittir16872, volume = {495}, number = {1}, month = {March}, author = {A Savinov and J Pan and P Ghosh and GF Hatfull}, title = {The Bxb1 gp47 recombination directionality factor is required not only for prophage excision, but also for phage DNA replication}, journal = {Gene}, pages = {42 -- 48}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16872/}, abstract = {Mycobacteriophage Bxb1 encodes a serine-integrase that catalyzes both integrative and excisive site-specific recombination. However, excision requires a second phage-encoded protein, gp47, which serves as a recombination directionality factor (RDF). The viability of a Bxb1 mutant containing an S153A substitution in gp47 that eliminates the RDF activity of Bxb1 gp47 shows that excision is not required for Bxb1 lytic growth. However, the inability to construct a {\ensuremath{\delta}}47 deletion mutant of Bxb1 suggests that gp47 provides a second function that is required for lytic growth, although the possibility of an essential cis-acting site cannot be excluded. Characterization of a mutant prophage of mycobacteriophage L5 in which gene 54 - a homologue of Bxb1 gene 47 - is deleted shows that it also is defective in induced lytic growth, and exhibits a strong defect in DNA replication. Bxb1 gp47 and its relatives are also unusual in containing conserved motifs associated with a phosphoesterase function, although we have not been able to show robust phosphoesterase activity of the proteins, and amino acid substitutions with the conserved motifs do not interfere with RDF activity. We therefore propose that Bxb1 gp47 and its relatives provide an important function in phage DNA replication that has been co-opted by the integration machinery of the serine-integrases to control the directionality of recombination. {\copyright} 2011 Elsevier B.V.} } @inproceedings{pittir22686, month = {May}, author = {Natalie Michele Scala and Richard Kutzner and Dennis Buede and Christopher Ciminera and Alicia Bridges}, booktitle = {Industrial and Systems Engineering Research Conference}, address = {Orlando, Florida}, title = {Multi-objective Decision Analysis for Workforce Planning: A Case Study}, publisher = {Institute of Industrial Engineers}, journal = {Proceedings of the Industrial and Systems Engineering Research Conference}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Multiple, objective, decision, analysis, multiple, criteria, decision, analysis, workforce, planning, decision, analysis, government}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22686/}, abstract = {The United States Department of Defense (DoD) engages in complex decision making on a daily basis, in terms of mission support and workforce management. Decision analysis tools are employed to evaluate and support the best course of action. In particular, multi-objective decision making (MODA) is a robust decision technique that evaluates objectives and measures in terms of value to select from a set of alternatives. This paper examines workforce planning at a DoD Agency through the use of MODA and examines the ratio of government employees (GOV) and contractors (CON) for an engineering related work role. MODA is used to identify influences to the assignment of a GOV or CON to an open position and to determine the appropriate ratio of GOV and CON employees for the work role. Results will be used to provide critical decision support to effectively manage budget and resources while meeting work requirements and agency mission with the best possible skill set.} } @unpublished{pittir13035, month = {September}, title = {International Emergency Response: Forming Effective Post-Extreme Event Stabilization and Reconstruction Missions }, author = {Steve R. Scheinert}, year = {2012}, keywords = {complex systems, post-conflict, network analysis, simulation, international affairs, public administration}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13035/}, abstract = {Debates about whether or not to engage in interventions to stabilize and rebuild states that have suffered extreme events, such as wars and large-scale natural disasters include questions about whether or not the intervening force can complete the mission. Intervening is a complex task that faces considerable political and military obstacles, even when the intervention is welcome. The situation is only more complex and difficult when the force is not welcome. This requires the reconstruction, and often construction, of governance capacity in the situation when all, or nearly all, capacity has been destroyed, but the situation is rapidly changing. To be effective, the missions and the governance structures that those missions are trying to build must have not only the capacity to govern, but also the resilience to respond and adapt to that changing environment. This research examines the relationship between resilience, capacity, and a mission?s effectiveness. Capacity is the total amount of resources available to the mission, including the funds, materiel, and personnel that each organization devotes to the effort of completing mission tasks. Resilience is the mission?s ability to identify changes in the environment and adapt to them. Effectiveness is the mission?s ability to meet its formally stated goals, as well implicitly understood goals. Analyzing these relationships requires first answering these questions: ? Who are the actors? ? What are the system rules? ? What are the patterns of interaction? ? How do actors select actions? ? How do actors select which actors with whom they will interact? ? What are the patterns of variation in the data covered in the preceding questions? The data to answer all of these questions is gathered both from existing data sources, including situation and newspaper reports, and from interviews with the individuals involved in the decision making during two reconstruction efforts: the 1992-2002 UN intervention in Bosnia-Herzegovina and the on-going UN intervention in Haiti, which began in 2004. The research constructs models of these events using qualitative systems analysis, network analysis, statistical analysis, and simulation analysis to show that increasing resilience increases effectiveness, after controlling for capacity.} } @article{pittir29965, volume = {14}, number = {S1}, month = {December}, author = {Erik B Schelbert and Diego Moguillansky and Timothy C Wong}, title = {Cardiovascular magnetic resonance with late gadolinium enhancement improves mortality prediction beyond echocardiography: a comparative effectiveness study}, publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC}, journal = {Journal of Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29965/} } @article{pittir14087, volume = {76}, number = {1}, month = {January}, author = {TK Schleyer and TP Thyvalikakath and H Spallek and MP Dziabiak and LA Johnson}, title = {From information technology to informatics: The information revolution in dental education}, journal = {Journal of Dental Education}, pages = {142 -- 153}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14087/}, abstract = {The capabilities of information technology (IT) have advanced precipitously in the last fifty years. Many of these advances have enabled new and beneficial applications of IT in dental education. However, conceptually, IT use in dental schools is only in its infancy. Challenges and opportunities abound for improving how we support clinical care, education, and research with IT. In clinical care, we need to move electronic dental records beyond replicating paper, connect information on oral health to that on systemic health, facilitate collaborative care through teledentistry, and help clinicians apply evidence-based dentistry and preventive management strategies. With respect to education, we should adopt an evidence-based approach to IT use for teaching and learning, share effective educational content and methods, leverage technology-mediated changes in the balance of power between faculty and students, improve technology support for clinical teaching, and build an information infrastructure centered on learners and organizations. In research, opportunities include reusing clinical care data for research studies, helping advance computational methods for research, applying generalizable research tools in dentistry, and reusing research data and scientific workflows. In the process, we transition from a focus on IT-the mere technical aspects of applying computer technology-to one on informatics: the what, how, and why of managing information.} } @incollection{pittir14393, author = {Titus Schleyer}, booktitle = {Integration of Medical and Dental Care and Patient Data}, editor = {Valerie Powell and Franklin M Din and Amit Acharya and Miguel Humberto Torres-Urquidy}, address = {New York, NY}, title = {Integrating medical and dental data: More than a technical challenge.}, publisher = {Springer}, pages = {xii -- xiii}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14393/} } @article{pittir14137, volume = {7}, number = {2}, month = {February}, title = {A Francisella tularensis live vaccine strain that improves stimulation of antigen-presenting cells does not enhance vaccine efficacy}, author = {DM Schmitt and DM O'Dee and J Horzempa and PE Carlson and BC Russo and JM Bales and MJ Brown and GJ Nau}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14137/}, abstract = {Vaccination is a proven strategy to mitigate morbidity and mortality of infectious diseases. The methodology of identifying and testing new vaccine candidates could be improved with rational design and in vitro testing prior to animal experimentation. The tularemia vaccine, Francisella tularensis live vaccine strain (LVS), does not elicit complete protection against lethal challenge with a virulent type A Francisella strain. One factor that may contribute to this poor performance is limited stimulation of antigen-presenting cells. In this study, we examined whether the interaction of genetically modified LVS strains with human antigen-presenting cells correlated with effectiveness as tularemia vaccine candidates. Human dendritic cells infected with wild-type LVS secrete low levels of proinflammatory cytokines, fail to upregulate costimulatory molecules, and activate human T cells poorly in vitro. One LVS mutant, strain 13B47, stimulated higher levels of proinflammatory cytokines from dendritic cells and macrophages and increased costimulatory molecule expression on dendritic cells compared to wild type. Additionally, 13B47-infected dendritic cells activated T cells more efficiently than LVS-infected cells. A deletion allele of the same gene in LVS displayed similar in vitro characteristics, but vaccination with this strain did not improve survival after challenge with a virulent Francisella strain. In vivo, this mutant was attenuated for growth and did not stimulate T cell responses in the lung comparable to wild type. Therefore, stimulation of antigen-presenting cells in vitro was improved by genetic modification of LVS, but did not correlate with efficacy against challenge in vivo within this model system. {\copyright} 2012 Schmitt et al.} } @unpublished{pittir13729, month = {August}, title = {Role of Innate Host Defenses in Acute and Vaccination Models of Pneumonic Tularemia}, author = {Deanna Schmitt}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Francisella tularensis, Host Defense, Innate Immunity, Vaccination, Natural Killer Cells, Antigen Presenting Cells}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13729/}, abstract = {The innate immune system is the first line of defense against invading pathogens. In order to establish a productive infection, microorganisms must effectively evade host defenses. The intracellular bacterium Francisella tularensis possesses multiple strategies to actively and passively avoid recognition and clearance by the host. Moreover, F. tularensis elicits a delayed innate immune response compared to other respiratory pathogens such as Klebsiella pneumoniae. Whether this immune response plays a beneficial or detrimental role in tularemia pathogenesis is not known. In this thesis, the contribution of innate host defenses against F. tularensis was evaluated in two different settings: acute infection of na{\"i}ve animals with a type A strain and after vaccination with the live vaccine strain (LVS). First, a comprehensive comparison of the early host response to the virulent type A F. tularensis strain Schu S4 and the attenuated type B strain LVS revealed several unique features of type A F. tularensis infection. The most significant immunological difference between these strains was a reduction in the number of viable lung cells, particularly NK cells and T cells, in Schu S4-infected mice. Since the decline in NK cells correlated with morbidity and mortality, the role of these cells in host defense against Schu S4 infection was evaluated. Modulation of NK cells did not have a demonstrable effect on Schu S4 infection in vivo suggesting these cells do not contribute to immunity against type A F. tularensis. In the final part of this thesis, LVS was genetically modified in order to better stimulate antigen-presenting cells and improve vaccine efficacy. Although LVS FTL\_0883 mutants elicited increased proinflammatory cytokine production and costimulatory molecule expression by macrophages and DCs, they failed to provide better protection against Schu S4 challenge than wild-type LVS. The data presented in this thesis expands our current knowledge of the innate immune response to F. tularensis and provides insight into tularemia vaccine development and immunotherapy.} } @article{pittir29927, volume = {2}, number = {1}, month = {January}, title = {A hypothesis on biological protection from space radiation through the use of new therapeutic gases as medical counter measures}, author = {MP Schoenfeld and RR Ansari and A Nakao and D Wink}, year = {2012}, journal = {Medical Gas Research}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29927/}, abstract = {Radiation exposure to astronauts could be a significant obstacle for long duration manned space exploration because of current uncertainties regarding the extent of biological effects. Furthermore, concepts for protective shielding also pose a technically challenging issue due to the nature of cosmic radiation and current mass and power constraints with modern exploration technology. The concern regarding exposure to cosmic radiation is biological damage that is associated with increased oxidative stress. It is therefore important and would be enabling to mitigate and/or prevent oxidative stress prior to the development of clinical symptoms and disease. This paper hypothesizes a "systems biology" approach in which a combination of chemical and biological mitigation techniques are used conjunctively. It proposes using new, therapeutic, medical gases as chemical radioprotectors for radical scavenging and as biological signaling molecules for management of the body's response to exposure. From reviewing radiochemistry of water, biological effects of CO, H{\ensuremath{<}}inf{\ensuremath{>}}2{\ensuremath{<}}/inf{\ensuremath{>}}, NO, and H{\ensuremath{<}}inf{\ensuremath{>}}2{\ensuremath{<}}/inf{\ensuremath{>}}S gas, and mechanisms of radiation biology, it can be concluded that this approach may have therapeutic potential for radiation exposure. Furthermore, it also appears to have similar potential for curtailing the pathogenesis of other diseases in which oxidative stress has been implicated including cardiovascular disease, cancer, chronic inflammatory disease, hypertension, ischemia/reperfusion (IR) injury, acute respiratory distress syndrome, Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease, cataracts, and aging. We envision applying these therapies through inhalation of gas mixtures or ingestion of water with dissolved gases. {\copyright} 2012 Schoenfeld et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir29797, volume = {16}, number = {6}, month = {November}, title = {{\ensuremath{\omega}}-3 fatty acids, {\ensuremath{\gamma}}-linolenic acid, and antioxidants: immunomodulators or inert dietary supplements?}, author = {CK Schott and DT Huang}, year = {2012}, journal = {Critical Care}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29797/}, abstract = {Citation: Rice TW, Wheeler AP, Thompson BT, deBoisblanc BP, Steingrub J, Rock, P. Enteral Omega-3 Fatty Acid, {\ensuremath{\gamma}}-Linolenic Acid, and Antioxidant Supplementation in Acute Lung Injury. JAMA. 2011; 306(14):1574-1581. PubMed PMID: 21976613.Background: The omega-3 (n-3) fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid, along with {\ensuremath{\gamma}}-linolenic acid and antioxidants, may modulate systemic inflammatory response and improve oxygenation and outcomes in patients with acute lung injury.Methods: Objective: To determine if dietary supplementation of these substances to patients with acute lung injury would increase ventilator-free days to study day 28.Design: The OMEGA study, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter trial conducted from January 2, 2008, through February 21, 2009. All participants had complete follow-up.Setting: This trial occurred at 44 hospitals in the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute ARDS Clinical Trials Network.Subjects: Participants were 272 adults within 48 hours of developing acute lung injury requiring mechanical ventilation whose physicians intended to start enteral nutrition.Intervention: Twice-daily enteral supplementation of n-3 fatty acids, {\ensuremath{\gamma}} -linolenic acid, and antioxidants compared with an isocaloric control. Enteral nutrition, directed by a protocol, was delivered separately from the study supplement.Outcomes: Ventilator-free days to study day 28.Results: The study was stopped early for futility after 143 and 129 patients were enrolled in the n-3 and control groups. Despite an 8-fold increase in plasma eicosapentaenoic acid levels, patients receiving the n-3 supplement had fewer ventilator-free days (14.0 vs 17.2; P=.02) (difference, -3.2 [95\% CI, -5.8 to -0.7]) and intensive care unit-free days (14.0 vs 16.7; P=.04). Patients in the n-3 group also had fewer nonpulmonary organ failure-free days (12.3 vs 15.5; P=.02). Sixty-day hospital mortality was 26.6\% in the n 3 group vs 16.3\% in the control group (P=.054), and adjusted 60-day mortality was 25.1\% and 17.6\% in the n-3 and control groups, respectively (P=.11). Use of the n-3 supplement resulted in more days with diarrhea (29\% vs 21\%; P=.001).Conclusions: Twice-daily enteral supplementation of n-3 fatty acids, {\ensuremath{\gamma}}-linolenic acid, and antioxidants did not improve the primary end point of ventilator-free days or other clinical outcomes in patients with acute lung injury and may be harmful. {\copyright} 2012 BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir29943, volume = {12}, month = {March}, title = {Progestogens to prevent preterm birth in twin pregnancies: An individual participant data meta-analysis of randomized trials}, author = {E Schuit and S Stock and RHH Groenwold and K Maurel and CA Combs and T Garite and CY Spong and EA Thom and DJ Rouse and SN Caritis and GR Saade and JM Zachary and JE Norman and L Rode and K Klein and A Tabor and E {\cC}eting{\"o}z and JC Morrison and EF Magann and CM Briery and V Serra and A Perales and J Meseguer and AH Nassar and AC Lim and KGM Moons and A Kwee and BWJ Mol}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29943/}, abstract = {Background: Preterm birth is the principal factor contributing to adverse outcomes in multiple pregnancies. Randomized controlled trials of progestogens to prevent preterm birth in twin pregnancies have shown no clear benefits. However, individual studies have not had sufficient power to evaluate potential benefits in women at particular high risk of early delivery (for example, women with a previous preterm birth or short cervix) or to determine adverse effects for rare outcomes such as intrauterine death.Methods/design: We propose an individual participant data meta-analysis of high quality randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials of progestogen treatment in women with a twin pregnancy. The primary outcome will be adverse perinatal outcome (a composite measure of perinatal mortality and significant neonatal morbidity). Missing data will be imputed within each original study, before data of the individual studies are pooled. The effects of 17-hydroxyprogesterone caproate or vaginal progesterone treatment in women with twin pregnancies will be estimated by means of a random effects log-binomial model. Analyses will be adjusted for variables used in stratified randomization as appropriate. Pre-specified subgroup analysis will be performed to explore the effect of progestogen treatment in high-risk groups.Discussion: Combining individual patient data from different randomized trials has potential to provide valuable, clinically useful information regarding the benefits and potential harms of progestogens in women with twin pregnancy overall and in relevant subgroups. {\copyright} 2012 Schuit et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @incollection{pittir23032, booktitle = {The Journey From Child to Scientist: Integrating Cognitive Development and the Education Sciences}, editor = {Sharon M Carver and Jeff Shrager}, month = {March}, title = {Engineering in and for Science Education}, author = {Christian D Schunn and Eli M Silk and Xornam S Apedoe}, publisher = {American Psychological Association}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/23032/}, abstract = {Chapter in: The Journey From Child to Scientist: Integrating Cognitive Development and the Education Sciences} } @incollection{pittir23034, month = {December}, author = {Christian D Schunn and J Gregory Trafton}, booktitle = {Handbook of the Psychology of Science}, editor = {Gregory Feist and Michael Gorman}, title = {The psychology of uncertainty in scientific data analysis}, publisher = {Springer Publishing Company}, pages = {461 -- 485}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/23034/}, abstract = {Chapter in Handbook of the Psychology of Science} } @article{pittir22260, volume = {4}, number = {1}, title = {Evaluation of a telerehabilitation system for community-based rehabilitation.}, author = {Jamie Schutte and Sara Gales and Ashlee Filippone and Andi Saptono and Bambang Parmanto and Michael McCue}, year = {2012}, pages = {15 -- 24}, journal = {Int J Telerehabil}, keywords = {Web-based, internet-based, on-line, portal, rehabilitation, telehealth, telerehabilitation, usability, video- conferencing}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22260/}, abstract = {The use of web-based portals, while increasing in popularity in the fields of medicine and research, are rarely reported on in community-based rehabilitation programs. A program within the Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation's Hiram G. Andrews Center, the Cognitive Skills Enhancement Program (CSEP), sought to enhance organization of program and participant information and communication between part- and full-time employees, supervisors and consultants. A telerehabilitation system was developed consisting of (1) a web-based portal to support a variety of clinical activities, and (2) the Versatile Integrated System for Telerehabilitation (VISYTER) video-conferencing system to support the collaboration and delivery of rehabilitation services remotely. This descriptive evaluation examines the usability of the telerehabilitation system incorporating both the portal and VISYTER. Telerehabilitation system users include CSEP staff members from three geographical locations and employed by two institutions. The IBM After-Scenario Questionnaire (ASQ) and Post-Study System Usability Questionnaire (PSSUQ), the Telehealth Usability Questionnaire (TUQ), and two demographic surveys were administered to gather both objective and subjective information. Results showed generally high levels of usability. Users commented that the telerehabilitation system improved communication, increased access to information, improved speed of completing tasks, and had an appealing interface. Areas where users would like to see improvements, including ease of accessing/editing documents and searching for information, are discussed.} } @article{pittir21358, volume = {80}, number = {2}, month = {March}, author = {CE Schweitzer and RM Feldmann and MC Lamanna}, title = {New genus of crab (Brachyura: Raninoida: Necrocarcinidae) from the upper cretaceous of West Antarctica, with description of a new species}, journal = {Annals of Carnegie Museum}, pages = {147 -- 158}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/21358/}, abstract = {A new genus of crab from the Late Cretaceous of Antarctica increases diversity within Necrocarcinidae Frster, 1968, and demonstrates what appear to be gradual evolution and sympatric speciation in the southern high latitudes. New taxa include Hadrocarcinus tectilacus, new genus, new species, as well as two new combinations, Hadrocarcinus carinatus (Feldmann et al., 1993) and Hadrocarcinus wrighti (Feldmann et al., 1993). Necrocarcinidae was paleogeographically widespread by the middle Early Cretaceous, but the geographic distribution and diversity of the group increased even further by the middle Late Cretaceous, perhaps as a result of high sea levels and elevated global temperatures at that time. The paleogeographic range and diversity of necrocarcinids decreased during the latest Cretaceous and into the earliest Paleocene (Danian), possibly due to decreases in sea level and global temperatures, restricting the family to the northern high latitudes. Alternatively, apparent diversity trends in Necrocarcinidae may simply reflect available rock volume.} } @article{pittir12208, volume = {39}, number = {1}, title = {The bent briars, the fountains of briars}, author = {Eric Schwerer}, publisher = {Saskatchewan Writers Guild}, year = {2012}, journal = {Grain, the journal of eclectic writing}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12208/} } @unpublished{pittir13079, month = {September}, title = {Functional Analysis of Transcriptional Promoters of Macaque Lymph Node Chemokines}, author = {Lauren A. Sciullo}, year = {2012}, keywords = {CCL20, CCL21, CXCL13, Promoter, Transcription}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13079/}, abstract = {Inflammation has been shown to play a part in the disease processes of human immunodeficiency virus type-1 (HIV-1) and simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) infections. The chemokines CCL20, CCL21, and CXCL13 all play important roles in the immune response and have each been, in some manner, linked to HIV-1 and SIV infection. Expression of these chemokine genes has been shown to affect disease state and it is, therefore, important to study the transcriptional regulation of these genes as a possible mechanism of controlling their expression. Transcriptional regulation occurs primarily via the promoter region of a gene. This promoter is the target for binding by transcription factors that can either activate or repress the expression of that specific gene. In this study, the promoter regions of the macaque chemokines CCL20, CCL21, and CXCL13 were analyzed. These promoter regions were characterized via sequence alignments and analyses, as well as by mapping putative transcription factor binding sites. Not only were differences between multiple clones of each chemokine promoter identified, but the homology between the rhesus macaque, cynomolgus macaque, and human promoter regions were explored. By cloning the three promoters into the pGL2-Basic vector, a promoterless luciferase expression plasmid, transcriptional control was measured from each promoter via levels of luciferase expression. A dual-luciferase reporter assay was designed and optimized as a method of quantitating transcriptional control from macaque chemokine promoters. After stimulation, an increase in CCL20 transcriptional levels, but no change in CCL21 and CXCL13 transcriptional levels, was observed. Possible methods of inhibiting transcription from the CCL20 promoter were explored by testing the effects of glycerol monolaurate (GML), (-)-epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and ethyl gallate (EG) on transcriptional levels. In summary, we have amplified three macaque chemokine promoters, characterized their basal and induced transcriptional control of the luciferase gene, and have identified potential inhibitors of their upregulation. The public health relevance of this study is its ability to potentially pave the way for additional approaches to modulating chemokine expression as a method of combating the inflammation associated with HIV-1-driven disease.} } @unpublished{pittir16388, booktitle = {Special Libraries Association (SLA) Pittsburgh Chapter}, month = {March}, title = {Banks Got Bailed Out, Books Got Thrown Out! The Ongoing Creation, Destruction, and Recreation of the People?s Library at Occupy Wall Street}, author = {William David Scott}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16388/} } @article{pittir16315, volume = {1}, month = {March}, author = {William David Scott}, title = {Marginal Music: Wagner?s Philosophical Notes}, publisher = {University of Pittsburgh?s European Union Center of Excellence/European Studies Center}, journal = {EUCE/ESC Newsletter}, pages = {6 -- 8}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16315/} } @unpublished{pittir16385, booktitle = {American Labor Museum/Botto House National Landmark}, title = {Troublemakers, Wildcats, and Sit-Down Strikes in the Era of Mass Production}, author = {William David Scott}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16385/} } @book{pittir16266, title = {Troublemakers: power, representation, and the fiction of the mass worker [Power, representation, and the fiction of the mass worker]}, author = {William David Scott}, address = {New Brunswick}, publisher = {Rutgers University Press}, year = {2012}, note = {Contents: Introduction -- Part one: The making of the mass worker. The powerless worker and the failure of political representation : "the lowest and most degraded of human beasts"; The empowered worker and the technological representation of capital : "out of this furnace, this metal." Part two: Strategy and structure at the point of production. The disempowering worker and the aesthetic representation of industrial unionism: "I am the book that has no end!" ; The powerful worker and the demand for economic representation: "they planned to use their flesh, their bones, as a barricade" -- Conclusion: Making trouble on a global scale.}, keywords = {Working, class, in, literature., American, fiction, --, 20th, century, --, History, and, criticism., Power, (Social, sciences), in, literature., Labor, movement, in, literature., Work, in, literature., Social, conflict, in, literature., Arbeiter, (Motiv), Arbeiterbewegung, (Motiv), Literatur., Macht, (Motiv)}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16266/}, abstract = {William Scott?s Troublemakers explores how a major change in the nature and forms of working-class power affected novels about U.S. industrial workers in the first half of the twentieth century. With the rise of mechanization and assembly-line labor from the 1890s to the 1930s, these laborers found that they had been transformed into a class of ?mass? workers who, since that time, have been seen alternately as powerless, degraded victims or heroic, empowered icons who could rise above their oppression only through the help of representative organizations located outside the workplace. Analyzing portrayals of workers in such novels as Upton Sinclair?s The Jungle, Ruth McKenney's Industrial Valley, and Jack London?s The Iron Heel, William Scott moves beyond narrow depictions of these laborers to show their ability to resist exploitation through their direct actions{--}sit-down strikes, sabotage, and other spontaneous acts of rank-and-file ?troublemaking? on the job{--}often carried out independently of union leadership. The novel of the mass industrial worker invites us to rethink our understanding of modern forms of representation through its attempts to imagine and depict workers? agency in an environment where it appears to be completely suppressed..} } @article{pittir18715, volume = {96}, number = {1}, month = {October}, author = {SP Seguin and AW Ireland and T Gupta and CM Wright and Y Miyata and P Wipf and JM Pipas and JE Gestwicki and JL Brodsky}, title = {A screen for modulators of large T antigen's ATPase activity uncovers novel inhibitors of Simian Virus 40 and BK virus replication}, journal = {Antiviral Research}, pages = {70 -- 81}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18715/}, abstract = {New polyomaviruses are continually being identified, and it is likely that links between this virus family and disease will continue to emerge. Unfortunately, a specific treatment for polyomavirus-associated disease is lacking. Because polyomaviruses express large Tumor Antigen, TAg, we hypothesized that small molecule inhibitors of the essential ATPase activity of TAg would inhibit viral replication. Using a new screening platform, we identified inhibitors of TAg's ATPase activity. Lead compounds were moved into a secondary assay, and ultimately two FDA approved compounds, bithionol and hexachlorophene, were identified as the most potent TAg inhibitors known to date. Both compounds inhibited Simian Virus 40 replication as assessed by plaque assay and quantitative PCR. Moreover, these compounds inhibited BK virus, which causes BKV Associated Nephropathy. In neither case was host cell viability compromised at these concentrations. Our data indicate that directed screening for TAg inhibitors is a viable method to identify polyomavirus inhibitors, and that bithionol and hexachlorophene represent lead compounds that may be further modified and/or ultimately used to combat diseases associated with polyomavirus infection. {\copyright} 2012 Elsevier B.V.} } @unpublished{pittir12885, month = {September}, title = {Modeling, Scaleup and Optimization of Slurry Bubble Column Reactors for Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis}, author = {Laurent Sehabiague}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Absorption Bubble size Dynamic Gas Disengagement Fischer-Tropsch Gas Holdup Gas-Liquid Interfacial Area Hydrodynamics Mass Transfer Reactor Modeling Sauter Mean Bubble Diameter Slurry Bubble Column Reactor Statistical Experimental Design Syngas Volumetric Mass transfer Coefficient}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12885/}, abstract = {The hydrodynamic and mass transfer parameters of gaseous mixtures of N2 and He, used as surrogate components for CO and H2 respectively, were measured in three Fischer-Tropsch (F-T) liquids in the presence and absence of solid particles (Al2O3, FeOx). The data were obtained in a pilot-scale (0.29 m ID and 3 m high) slurry bubble column reactor (SBCR) within wide ranges of operating conditions covering those of F-T synthesis. The manometric method, the Transient Physical Gas Absorption technique and the Dynamic Gas Disengagement technique were employed to obtain the gas holdup, the volumetric liquid-side mass transfer coefficient and the gas bubbles Sauter mean diameter, respectively. Statistical experimental design was used to investigate the effect of these operating conditions on those parameters. The gas-liquid interfacial area appeared to control the mass transfer behavior of the SBCR operating in the churn-turbulent flow regime. A user-friendly simulator based on a comprehensive computer model for F-T SBCRs, taking into account the hydrodynamics, kinetics, heat transfer, and mass transfer was developed. Novel hydrodynamic and mass transfer correlations, covering wide ranges of reactor geometry, gas distributor types, and operating conditions were established using our experimental data and those available in the literature; and a new relationship between the axial dispersion of large gas bubbles and their average diameter were developed and included in the reactor model. All reactor partial differential equations, equation parameters along with the pertinent boundary conditions were simultaneously solved numerically using the finite elements method. Different kinetic rate expressions available in the literature for iron and cobalt-based catalysts were included in the simulator which was used to predict the effects of the operating conditions, such as catalyst concentration, pressure, temperature, H2/CO ratio, and superficial gas velocity on the performance of a F-T SBCR. The predictions showed that the performance of the reactor was strongly dependent on the catalyst type and the kinetic rate expression used. The simulator was also used to optimize the reactor geometry and operating conditions in order to produce 10,000 barrels per day of synthetic hydrocarbons. } } @article{pittir15890, volume = {7}, number = {8}, month = {August}, title = {The effects of rhythmic sensory cues on the temporal dynamics of human gait}, author = {E Sejdi{\'c} and Y Fu and A Pak and JA Fairley and T Chau}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15890/}, abstract = {Walking is a complex, rhythmic task performed by the locomotor system. However, natural gait rhythms can be influenced by metronomic auditory stimuli, a phenomenon of particular interest in neurological rehabilitation. In this paper, we examined the effects of aural, visual and tactile rhythmic cues on the temporal dynamics associated with human gait. Data were collected from fifteen healthy adults in two sessions. Each session consisted of five 15-minute trials. In the first trial of each session, participants walked at their preferred walking speed. In subsequent trials, participants were asked to walk to a metronomic beat, provided through visually, aurally, tactile or all three cues (simultaneously and in sync), the pace of which was set to the preferred walking speed of the first trial. Using the collected data, we extracted several parameters including: gait speed, mean stride interval, stride interval variability, scaling exponent and maximum Lyapunov exponent. The extracted parameters showed that rhythmic sensory cues affect the temporal dynamics of human gait. The auditory rhythmic cue had the greatest influence on the gait parameters, while the visual cue had no statistically significant effect on the scaling exponent. These results demonstrate that visual rhythmic cues could be considered as an alternative cueing modality in rehabilitation without concern of adversely altering the statistical persistence of walking. {\copyright} 2012 Sejdi{\'c} et al.} } @article{pittir14164, volume = {7}, number = {3}, month = {March}, title = {A method for removal of low frequency components associated with head movements from dual-axis swallowing accelerometry signals}, author = {E Sejdi{\'c} and CM Steele and T Chau}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14164/}, abstract = {Head movements can greatly affect swallowing accelerometry signals. In this paper, we implement a spline-based approach to remove low frequency components associated with these motions. Our approach was tested using both synthetic and real data. Synthetic signals were used to perform a comparative analysis of the spline-based approach with other similar techniques. Real data, obtained data from 408 healthy participants during various swallowing tasks, was used to analyze the processing accuracy with and without the spline-based head motions removal scheme. Specifically, we analyzed the segmentation accuracy and the effects of the scheme on statistical properties of these signals, as measured by the scaling analysis. The results of the numerical analysis showed that the spline-based technique achieves a superior performance in comparison to other existing techniques. Additionally, when applied to real data, we improved the accuracy of the segmentation process by achieving a 27\% drop in the number of false negatives and a 30\% drop in the number of false positives. Furthermore, the anthropometric trends in the statistical properties of these signals remained unaltered as shown by the scaling analysis, but the strength of statistical persistence was significantly reduced. These results clearly indicate that any future medical devices based on swallowing accelerometry signals should remove head motions from these signals in order to increase segmentation accuracy. {\copyright} 2012 Sejdi{\'c} et al.} } @article{pittir16048, volume = {8}, number = {9}, month = {September}, title = {Multistationary and Oscillatory Modes of Free Radicals Generation by the Mitochondrial Respiratory Chain Revealed by a Bifurcation Analysis}, author = {VA Selivanov and M Cascante and M Friedman and MF Schumaker and M Trucco and TV Votyakova}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS Computational Biology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16048/}, abstract = {The mitochondrial electron transport chain transforms energy satisfying cellular demand and generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) that act as metabolic signals or destructive factors. Therefore, knowledge of the possible modes and bifurcations of electron transport that affect ROS signaling provides insight into the interrelationship of mitochondrial respiration with cellular metabolism. Here, a bifurcation analysis of a sequence of the electron transport chain models of increasing complexity was used to analyze the contribution of individual components to the modes of respiratory chain behavior. Our algorithm constructed models as large systems of ordinary differential equations describing the time evolution of the distribution of redox states of the respiratory complexes. The most complete model of the respiratory chain and linked metabolic reactions predicted that condensed mitochondria produce more ROS at low succinate concentration and less ROS at high succinate levels than swelled mitochondria. This prediction was validated by measuring ROS production under various swelling conditions. A numerical bifurcation analysis revealed qualitatively different types of multistationary behavior and sustained oscillations in the parameter space near a region that was previously found to describe the behavior of isolated mitochondria. The oscillations in transmembrane potential and ROS generation, observed in living cells were reproduced in the model that includes interaction of respiratory complexes with the reactions of TCA cycle. Whereas multistationarity is an internal characteristic of the respiratory chain, the functional link of respiration with central metabolism creates oscillations, which can be understood as a means of auto-regulation of cell metabolism. {\copyright} 2012 Selivanov et al.} } @inproceedings{pittir18995, booktitle = {25th Annual IACM Conference}, title = {Being tough doesn?t always pay off: The culture of honor vs dignity in negotiation}, author = {Zhaleh Semnani-Azad and Wendi L Adair and Katia Sycara and Michael Lewis}, publisher = {International Association of Conflict Management}, year = {2012}, pages = {1 -- 28}, journal = {Proceedings of the 25th Annual IACM Conference}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18995/}, abstract = {Early work on cross-cultural negotiation has focused on East-West differences. In the current study we investigate the negotiation scripts employed by Middle Eastern negotiators, more specifically Iranian negotiators, in an intracultural interaction, compared to North American negotiators. We examine how the Iranian worldviews, beliefs, norms, and social behavior influence their goals and aspirations, negotiation tactics, and ultimately final outcome. We formulated our hypotheses based on the theory of honor-dignity cultures and illustrate how the importance of preserving and maintaining honor influences the Iranian negotiation strategies in business dealings. Our results illustrate that consistent with the culture of honor, Iranian negotiators are more likely to be competitive, express emotions, and employ distributive tactics compared to Canadian negotiators. Moreover, this competitive mindset leaves Iranian negotiators at a disadvantage as the overall joint gain is significantly lower than Canadian negotiators.} } @inproceedings{pittir18993, booktitle = {2012 International Conference on Collaboration Technologies and Systems (CTS)}, month = {May}, title = {Dynamics of helping behavior and cooperation across culture}, author = {Zhaleh Semnani-Azad and Katia Sycara and Michael Lewis}, publisher = {IEEE}, year = {2012}, journal = {2012 International Conference on Collaboration Technologies and Systems (CTS)}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18993/} } @inproceedings{pittir12385, booktitle = {2012 45th Hawaii International Conference on System Sciences (HICSS)}, month = {January}, title = {Stereotype and Perception Change in Intercultural Negotiation}, author = {Zhaleh Semnani-Azad and Katia Sycara and Michael Lewis and Wendi L Adair}, publisher = {IEEE}, year = {2012}, journal = {2012 45th Hawaii International Conference on System Sciences}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12385/} } @article{pittir14295, volume = {112}, number = {8}, month = {August}, author = {MA Sevick and M Korytkowski and RA Stone and B Piraino and D Ren and S Sereika and Y Wang and A Steenkiste and LE Burke}, title = {Biophysiologic Outcomes of the Enhancing Adherence in Type 2 Diabetes (ENHANCE) Trial}, journal = {Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics}, pages = {1147 -- 1157}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14295/}, abstract = {Background: Behavioral research to improve lifestyle in broadly defined populations of patients with type 2 diabetes is limited. Objective: We evaluated a behavioral intervention featuring technology-based self-monitoring on biophysiologic outcomes of glycemic control and markers of cardiovascular risk. Design: In this single-site, randomized clinical trial, participants were stratified by good and poor glycemic control (glycated hemoglobin {\ensuremath{<}}8\% or ?8\%) and absence or presence of kidney disease, (estimated glomerular filtration rate ?60 or {\ensuremath{<}}60 mL/min) and randomized within strata. Measurements were obtained at 0, 3, and 6 months. Participants/setting: Self-referred, community-dwelling adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Intervention: The intervention group received Social Cognitive Theory-based counseling paired with technology-based self-monitoring, and results were compared with an attention control group. Main outcome measures: Glycated hemoglobin, fasting serum glucose, lipid levels, blood pressure, weight, body mass index, and waist circumference were evaluated. Statistical analyses performed: Mean differences within and between randomization groups were compared over time. Intervention effects over time were estimated using random intercept models. Results: Two hundred ninety-six subjects were randomized, 256 (86.5\%) completed 3-month and 246 (83.1\%) completed 6-month assessments. Glycated hemoglobin was reduced in the intervention group by 0.5\% at 3 months and 0.6\% at 6 months (P{\ensuremath{<}}0.001 for each), and the control group by 0.3\% (P{\ensuremath{<}}0.001) at 3 months and 0.2\% (P{\ensuremath{<}}0.05) at 6 months; but between-group differences were not significant. In those with baseline glycated hemoglobin ?8\% and estimated glomerular filtration rate ?60 mL/min, glycated hemoglobin was reduced in the intervention group by 1.5\% at 3 months and 1.8\% at 6 months (P{\ensuremath{<}}0.001 for each), and the control group by 0.9\% (P{\ensuremath{<}}0.001) at 3 months and 0.8\% (P{\ensuremath{<}}0.05) at 6 months; but between-group differences were not significant. In random intercept models, the estimated reduction in glycated hemoglobin of 0.29\% was not significant. Conclusions: Two behavioral approaches to improving general lifestyle management in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus were effective in improving glycemic control, but no significant between-group differences were observed. {\copyright} 2012 Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.} } @article{pittir22407, volume = {123}, number = {1-3}, month = {June}, author = {WG Shadel and SC Martino and C Setodji and A Haviland and BA Primack and D Scharf}, title = {Motives for smoking in movies affect future smoking risk in middle school students: An experimental investigation}, journal = {Drug and Alcohol Dependence}, pages = {66 -- 71}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22407/}, abstract = {Background: Exposure to smoking in movies has been linked to adolescent smoking uptake. However, beyond linking amount of exposure to smoking in movies with adolescent smoking, whether the way that smoking is portrayed in movies matters for influencing adolescent smoking has not been investigated. This study experimentally examined how motivation for smoking depicted in movies affects self-reported future smoking risk (a composite measure with items that assess smoking refusal self-efficacy and smoking intentions) among early adolescents. Methods: A randomized laboratory experiment was used. Adolescents were exposed to movie scenes depicting one of three movie smoking motives: social smoking motive (characters smoked to facilitate social interaction); relaxation smoking motive (characters smoked to relax); or no smoking motive (characters smoked with no apparent motive, i.e., in neutral contexts and/or with neutral affect). Responses to these movie scenes were contrasted (within subjects) to participants' responses to control movie scenes in which no smoking was present; these control scenes matched to the smoking scenes with the same characters in similar situations but where no smoking was present. A total of 358 adolescents, aged 11-14 years, participated. Results: Compared with participants exposed to movie scenes depicting characters smoking with no clear motive, adolescents exposed to movie scenes depicting characters smoking for social motives and adolescents exposed to movie scenes depicting characters smoking for relaxation motives had significantly greater chances of having increases in their future smoking risk. Conclusions: Exposure to movies that portray smoking motives places adolescents at particular risk for future smoking. {\copyright} 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir13465, month = {August}, title = {Psychosocial Determinants of Physical Activity in a Sample of Undergraduate College Students}, author = {Alex B. Shafer}, year = {2012}, keywords = {psychosocial determinants physical activity college students}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13465/}, abstract = {It is reported that only 50.4\% of males and 39.9\% of females aged 18-30 years report meet the U.S. recommended guidelines for physical activity (PA), with the steepest declines occurring in young adulthood. To explain physical inactivity trends, investigators have proposed theory-based psychosocial factors or determinants for the purpose of identifying modifiable psychological barriers to PA. Purpose: The primary aim of this investigation was to explore the relation between PA and psychosocial variables of: 1) motivation (MO); 2) self-efficacy (SE); 3) social support (SS); 4) exercise enjoyment (EE); and 5) body image (BI) in young adult college students aged 18-20 years. A secondary aim was to examine whether young adult males and females differ in psychosocial predictors of PA behavior. Methods: This investigation employed a cross-sectional correlational design. Thirty-five males and 55 females ages 18-20 years were recruited to participate. The mean age was 18.7{$\pm$}0.7 years for the combined sample. Ninety seven percent of males and 78.2\% of the females enrolled were college freshmen. Total weekly hours of PA (7-Day Physical Activity Recall) served as the dependent variable. The psychosocial predictor variables were assessed using standardized questionnaires. Results: For males, EE was significantly (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.05) correlated to minutes of hard, minutes of very hard, and total minutes of PA. A stepwise multiple regression analyses indicated exercise EE (R2=0.174, F(1,33)=6.949, p=0.013) was the only predictor variable that explained a significant proportion of variance for males. For females, SE, EE, MO, SS from friends, and BI were significantly correlated to minutes of PA. The combination of EE, extrinsic MO, SS from friends, and BI explained 43\% of the variance in total minutes of PA in females (R2=0.426, F(4,50)=9.294, p{\ensuremath{<}}0.001). Conclusion: Results suggest that EE may be the most important predictor variable among those assessed in this investigation for both males and females. This is followed closely by MO, SS from friends, and BI for females. This investigation has identified gender specific trends in determinants of physical activity for the young adult college population. This is an important step to explaining physical activity behaviors in a population that is at risk for sedentary behaviors.} } @article{pittir29945, volume = {12}, number = {1}, month = {March}, title = {Heritable patterns of tooth decay in the permanent dentition: Principal components and factor analyses}, author = {JR Shaffer and E Feingold and X Wang and K TCuenco and DE Weeks and RS DeSensi and DE Polk and S Wendell and RJ Weyant and R Crout and DW McNeil and ML Marazita}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Oral Health}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29945/}, abstract = {Background: Dental caries is the result of a complex interplay among environmental, behavioral, and genetic factors, with distinct patterns of decay likely due to specific etiologies. Therefore, global measures of decay, such as the DMFS index, may not be optimal for identifying risk factors that manifest as specific decay patterns, especially if the risk factors such as genetic susceptibility loci have small individual effects. We used two methods to extract patterns of decay from surface-level caries data in order to generate novel phenotypes with which to explore the genetic regulation of caries.Methods: The 128 tooth surfaces of the permanent dentition were scored as carious or not by intra-oral examination for 1,068 participants aged 18 to 75 years from 664 biological families. Principal components analysis (PCA) and factor analysis (FA), two methods of identifying underlying patterns without a priori surface classifications, were applied to our data.Results: The three strongest caries patterns identified by PCA recaptured variation represented by DMFS index (correlation, r = 0.97), pit and fissure surface caries (r = 0.95), and smooth surface caries (r = 0.89). However, together, these three patterns explained only 37\% of the variability in the data, indicating that a priori caries measures are insufficient for fully quantifying caries variation. In comparison, the first pattern identified by FA was strongly correlated with pit and fissure surface caries (r = 0.81), but other identified patterns, including a second pattern representing caries of the maxillary incisors, were not representative of any previously defined caries indices. Some patterns identified by PCA and FA were heritable (h 2 = 30-65\%, p = 0.043-0.006), whereas other patterns were not, indicating both genetic and non-genetic etiologies of individual decay patterns.Conclusions: This study demonstrates the use of decay patterns as novel phenotypes to assist in understanding the multifactorial nature of dental caries. {\copyright} 2012 Shaffer et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @incollection{pittir17417, volume = {16}, month = {December}, title = {Six questions about the world bank's 2020 education sector strategy}, author = {MN Shafiq}, year = {2012}, pages = {33 -- 41}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17417/}, abstract = {This chapter presents the findings from a series of interviews with World Bank staff on the topic of the World Bank's Education Sector Strategy 2020. The six questions used in these interviews serve as the template for the information presented in this chapter. This chapter provides a brief but important set of background information necessary to understand the strategy and the following chapters because it provides a reflective voice to the World Bank staff involved in the development of the new strategy or familiar with the development process. {\copyright} 2012 by Emerald Group Publishing Limited.} } @unpublished{pittir13548, month = {September}, title = {The Latent Group-Based Trajectory Model: Development of Discrimination Measures and Joint Modeling with Subdistributions}, author = {Nilesh H. Shah}, year = {2012}, keywords = {latent class modeling, longitudinal data, finite mixture models, survival analysis}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13548/}, abstract = {In clinical research, patient care decisions are often easier to make if patients are classified into a manageable number of groups based on homogeneous risk patterns. Investigators can use latent group-based trajectory models to estimate the posterior probabilities that an individual will be classified into a particular group of risk patterns. Although this method is increasingly used in clinical research, there is currently no measure that can be used to determine whether an individual's group assignment has a high level of discrimination. We propose a discrimination index and provide confidence intervals of the probability of the assigned group for each individual. We also propose a modified form of entropy to measure discrimination. Additionally, when analyzing research involving disease processes, many researchers are interested in estimating the effect of longitudinally measured biomarkers on the event time outcomes in the presence of competing risks. We propose a method to estimate this effect under the joint modeling framework. The proposed joint model involves three submodels: the first one models the latent risk trajectory groups; the second one models the longitudinal pattern of biomarkers conditional on a specific risk group; and the third one models the subdistribution function conditional on a specific risk group. These methods are significant to public health research since they enable researchers to more confidently assign individual patients to risk groups based on their clinical measurements. The joint model also enables researchers to discover these distinct risk patterns more accurately by using patients' longitudinal data together with event time outcomes, while also adjusting for competing events.} } @article{pittir14061, volume = {12}, number = {3}, month = {May}, author = {N Shaikh and A Hoberman and HE Rockette and M Kurs-Lasky}, title = {Development of an algorithm for the diagnosis of otitis media}, journal = {Academic Pediatrics}, pages = {214 -- 218}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14061/}, abstract = {Background: The relative importance of signs and symptoms in the diagnosis of otitis media has not been adequately evaluated. This has led to a large degree of variation in the criteria used to diagnose otitis media, which has resulted in inconsistencies in clinical care and discrepant research findings. Methods: A group of experienced otoscopists examined children presenting for primary care. We investigated the signs and symptoms that these otoscopists used to distinguish acute otitis media (AOM), otitis media with effusion (OME), and no effusion. We used recursive partitioning to develop a diagnostic algorithm. To assess the algorithm, we validated it in an independent dataset. Results: Bulging of the tympanic membrane (TM) was the main finding that otoscopists used to discriminate AOM from OME; information regarding the presence or absence of other signs and symptoms added little to the diagnostic process. Overall, 92\% of children with AOM had a bulging TM compared with 0\% of children with OME. Opacification and/or an air-fluid level was the main finding that the otoscopists used to discriminate OME from no effusion; 97\% of children diagnosed with OME had an opaque TM compared with 5\% of children diagnosed with no effusion. An algorithm that used bulging and opacification of the TM correctly classified 99\% of ears in an independent dataset. Conclusions: Bulging of the TM was the finding that best discriminated AOM from OME. The algorithm developed here may prove to be useful in clinical care, research, and education concerning otitis media. Copyright {\copyright} 2012 by Academic Pediatric Association.} } @article{pittir14079, volume = {160}, number = {3}, month = {January}, title = {Accuracy and precision of the signs and symptoms of streptococcal pharyngitis in children: A systematic review}, author = {N Shaikh and N Swaminathan and EG Hooper}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of Pediatrics}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14079/}, abstract = {Objective: To conduct a systematic review to determine whether clinical findings can be used to rule in or to rule out streptococcal pharyngitis in children. Study design: Two authors independently searched MEDLINE and EMBASE. We included articles if they contained data on the accuracy of symptoms or signs of streptococcal pharyngitis, individually or combined into prediction rules, in children 3-18 years of age. Results: Thirty-eight articles with data on individual symptoms and signs and 15 articles with data on prediction rules met all inclusion criteria. In children with sore throat, the presence of a scarlatiniform rash (likelihood ratio [LR], 3.91; 95\% CI, 2.00-7.62), palatal petechiae (LR, 2.69; CI, 1.92-3.77), pharyngeal exudates (LR, 1.85; CI, 1.58-2.16), vomiting (LR, 1.79; CI, 1.58-2.16), and tender cervical nodes (LR, 1.72; CI, 1.54-1.93) were moderately useful in identifying those with streptococcal pharyngitis. Nevertheless, no individual symptoms or signs were effective in ruling in or ruling out streptococcal pharyngitis. Conclusions: Symptoms and signs, either individually or combined into prediction rules, cannot be used to definitively diagnose or rule out streptococcal pharyngitis. {\copyright} Copyright 2012 Mosby Inc. All rights reserved.} } @article{pittir14082, volume = {9}, month = {January}, title = {Decongestants, antihistamines and nasal irrigation for acute sinusitis in children.}, author = {N Shaikh and ER Wald and M Pi}, year = {2012}, journal = {Cochrane database of systematic reviews (Online)}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14082/}, abstract = {The efficacy of decongestants, antihistamines and nasal irrigation in children with clinically diagnosed acute sinusitis has not been systematically evaluated. To systematically review the efficacy of decongestants, antihistamines and nasal irrigation in children with clinically diagnosed acute sinusitis. We considered the following four interventions: 1) decongestants versus placebo or no medication, 2) antihistamines versus placebo or no medication, 3) decongestant and antihistamine combination versus placebo or no medication, 4) nasal irrigation versus no irrigation. The primary outcomes of the review were symptom resolution (improvement in symptom score from enrolment to day five and overall symptom burden (as measured by average symptom scores while on therapy). We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL 2012, Issue 1), which includes the Acute Respiratory Infections Group's Specialized Register, MEDLINE (1950 to January week 3, 2012) and EMBASE (1950 to January 2012). We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs which evaluated children less than 18 years of age with acute sinusitis, defined as 10 to 30 days of rhinorrhea, congestion or daytime cough. We excluded trials of children with chronic sinusitis and allergic rhinitis. Two review authors independently assessed each study for inclusion. Of the 526 studies found through the electronic searches and handsearching, none met all the inclusion criteria. There is no evidence to determine whether the use of antihistamines, decongestants or nasal irrigation is efficacious in children with acute sinusitis. Further research is needed to determine whether these interventions are beneficial in the treatment of children with acute sinusitis.} } @article{pittir15568, volume = {7}, number = {5}, month = {May}, title = {Serratamolide is a hemolytic factor produced by Serratia marcescens}, author = {RMQ Shanks and NA Stella and RM Lahr and S Wang and TI Veverka and RP Kowalski and X Liu}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15568/}, abstract = {Serratia marcescens is a common contaminant of contact lens cases and lenses. Hemolytic factors of S. marcescens contribute to the virulence of this opportunistic bacterial pathogen. We took advantage of an observed hyper-hemolytic phenotype of crp mutants to investigate mechanisms of hemolysis. A genetic screen revealed that swrW is necessary for the hyper-hemolysis phenotype of crp mutants. The swrW gene is required for biosynthesis of the biosurfactant serratamolide, previously shown to be a broad-spectrum antibiotic and to contribute to swarming motility. Multicopy expression of swrW or mutation of the hexS transcription factor gene, a known inhibitor of swrW expression, led to an increase in hemolysis. Surfactant zones and expression from an swrW-transcriptional reporter were elevated in a crp mutant compared to the wild type. Purified serratamolide was hemolytic to sheep and murine red blood cells and cytotoxic to human airway and corneal limbal epithelial cells in vitro. The swrW gene was found in the majority of contact lens isolates tested. Genetic and biochemical analysis implicate the biosurfactant serratamolide as a hemolysin. This novel hemolysin may contribute to irritation and infections associated with contact lens use. {\copyright} 2012 Shanks et al.} } @unpublished{pittir13520, month = {August}, title = {The effects of physical activity on academic achievement in kindergarten aged children}, author = {Amy K. Shannonhouse}, year = {2012}, keywords = {kindergarten physical activity academic achievement children}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13520/}, abstract = { THE EFFECTS OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ON ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT IN KINDERGARTEN AGED CHILDREN Amy Kathleen Shannonhouse, PhD University of Pittsburgh, 2012 Increasing time in physical activity could help combat childhood obesity. In addition to physical health, daily physical activity?s benefits on the brain and cognitive functioning have been extensively researched and provide support for incorporating more physical activity into physical education and the school day. This research investigated the effects of physical activity on academic achievement in kindergarten children across the 2008/09 school year. The main hypothesis examined in the study was whether children who participated in the Interactive Physical Activity Center (IPAC) would perform better academically than the control group on the Dibels Oral Reading Fluency, Retell Fluency, and Group Mathematics Assessment and Diagnostic Evaluation (G-Made) achievement tests. To ensure that children in the experimental group were physically active, participation, changes in heart rate, activity scores and perceived exertion were examined across the year. Third, school attendance was examined to determine if the experimental group had fewer school absences than the control group. A longitudinal non-equivalent control group design was used to investigate the relationship between physical activity and academic achievement. To determine if the children were active in the IPAC, a one-way ANOVA examined changes in fitness variables. For the main question of the study concerning physical activity and academic achievement a two-way (Group X Time) ANOVA was used to compare academic progress of the experimental and control group. To assess school attendance of the two groups, a one-tailed independent samples t-test was used. Results demonstrated that kindergarten children who received the IPAC program increased their physical activity and reached the academic performance level of the control group by the end of the school year. The experimental group experienced a greater rate of improvement over time in three out of four of the Dibels subtests compared to the control group, and improved the same as the controls in the Growth Scale Value of the G-Made. These results expand previous research on the relationship between physical activity and academic performance in kindergarten children. Results of this study are important for administrators and teachers because quality physical activity experiences have the potential to impact cognitive, physical and academic outcomes in our schools. } } @techreport{pittir28433, type = {Discussion Paper}, title = {Infrastructure Status and Needs in Southwestern Pennsylvania: A Primer (2012)}, author = {Justin Shao}, year = {2012}, institution = {University of Pittsburgh}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/28433/}, abstract = {This University of Pittsburgh Institute of Politics infrastructure status report for Southwestern Pennsylvania explores the roads and bridges, water and sewage, public transit, and also addresses air transportation, dam safety and flood control, natural gas and electricity, and telecommunications.} } @inproceedings{pittir12749, month = {August}, title = {Algorithm for energy-efficient and automatic configuration of pedestrian navigation services: Smartphones on clouds}, author = {MH Sharker and HA Karimi}, year = {2012}, pages = {85 -- 90}, journal = {SMARTGREENS 2012 - Proceedings of the 1st International Conference on Smart Grids and Green IT Systems}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12749/}, abstract = {Smartphones have been playing a major role as personal navigation aids to pedestrians, among other travelers. Pedestrian Navigation Services (PNSs) on smartphones face challenges such as limited battery power, relatively lower computational speed, limited storage capacities, and varying quality of available networks. Automatic configuration of PNS components is very important to address these challenges. In this paper, we present a novel approach for optimum configuration of components and computations of PNSs between smartphones and cloud platforms. An algorithm is developed based on three models, Minimum Computation (MinComp), Minimum Communication (MinComm), and Balanced Computation-Communication (BalCC), to allow smartphones to operate navigation services optimally in a distributed environment over cloud platforms. Each model was simulated by using various values for each parameter.} } @inproceedings{pittir19070, month = {December}, title = {Health-optimal routing in pedestrian navigation services}, author = {MH Sharker and HA Karimi and JC Zgibor}, year = {2012}, pages = {1 -- 10}, journal = {GIS: Proceedings of the ACM International Symposium on Advances in Geographic Information Systems}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19070/}, abstract = {People use various criteria for choosing routes, which may vary depending on location and time, purpose of trip, and personal preferences. Common routing criteria supported by current navigation services include shortest, fastest, least traffic, and least expensive (e.g., less fuel cost, toll free). While each optimal route is computed by using one of these criteria, there is currently no criterion that can be used to compute routes that are health-optimal. In this paper, we focus on a new routing criterion to compute health-optimal routes with the main objective of increasing physical activity. Those who are physically capable and motivated to walk can adapt a lifestyle that includes walking as a means to mitigate or prevent obesity. To that end, a routing criterion for computing health-optimal routes suitable for those who are concerned with obesity must take into account both environmental and individual factors. Computing optimal routes requires that each road segment of a road network be assigned a weight; like, distance for shortest routes and travel time for fastest routes. In this paper, we present and discuss a new weight for segments of pedestrian paths used in pedestrian navigation services to compute health-optimal routes. While health-optimal routes may address various health conditions, the objective of this work is to provide options for walking routes to increase regular physical activity as one means to help mitigate or prevent obesity. Weights are calculated by considering both environmental and individual parameters. The optimal-health weight is simulated using various scenarios. The results of the simulations show that the computed weights can be used to find health-optimal routes that are meaningful and consistent with walkability and obesity standards. {\copyright} 2012 ACM.} } @article{pittir14149, volume = {7}, number = {3}, month = {March}, title = {Evaluation of cervical mucosa in transmission bottleneck during acute HIV-1 infection using a cervical tissue-based organ culture}, author = {C Shen and M Ding and D Ratner and RC Montelaro and Y Chen and P Gupta}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14149/}, abstract = {Background: Although there are different strains of HIV-1 in a chronically infected individual, only one or limited virus strains are successfully transmitted to a new individual. The reason for this "transmission bottleneck" is as yet unknown. Methodology/Principal Findings: A human cervical explant model was used to measure HIV-1 transmission efficiency of viral strains from chronic infections, and transmitter/founder variants. We also evaluated the genetic characteristics of HIV-1 variants in the inoculums compared to those transmitted across the cervical mucosa. Eight different HIV-1 isolates were used in this study, six chronic isolates and two transmitter/founder viruses. The transmission efficiency of the chronic and transmitter/founder virus isolates and the viral diversity of chronic isolates before and after viral transmission were assessed. The results indicate that transmitter/founder viruses did not display higher transmission efficiency than chronic HIV-1 isolates. Furthermore, no evidence for a difference in diversity was found between the inoculums and transmitted virus strains. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that the sequences of variants in the inoculums and those present in transmitted virus intermingled irrespective of co-receptor usage. In addition, the inoculum and transmitted variants had a similar pairwise distance distribution. Conclusion: There was no selection of a single or limited number of viral variants during HIV-1 transmission across the cervical mucosa in the organ culture model, indicating that the cervical mucosa alone may not produce the transmission bottleneck of HIV-1 infection observed in vivo. {\copyright} 2012 Shen et al.} } @article{pittir15588, volume = {7}, number = {7}, month = {July}, title = {Distinct genes related to drug response identified in ER positive and ER negative breast cancer cell lines}, author = {K Shen and SD Rice and DA Gingrich and D Wang and Z Mi and C Tian and Z Ding and SL Brower and PR Ervin and MJ Gabrin and G Tseng and N Song}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15588/}, abstract = {Breast cancer patients have different responses to chemotherapeutic treatments. Genes associated with drug response can provide insight to understand the mechanisms of drug resistance, identify promising therapeutic opportunities, and facilitate personalized treatment. Estrogen receptor (ER) positive and ER negative breast cancer have distinct clinical behavior and molecular properties. However, to date, few studies have rigorously assessed drug response genes in them. In this study, our goal was to systematically identify genes associated with multidrug response in ER positive and ER negative breast cancer cell lines. We tested 27 human breast cell lines for response to seven chemotherapeutic agents (cyclophosphamide, docetaxel, doxorubicin, epirubicin, fluorouracil, gemcitabine, and paclitaxel). We integrated publicly available gene expression profiles of these cell lines with their in vitro drug response patterns, then applied meta-analysis to identify genes related to multidrug response in ER positive and ER negative cells separately. One hundred eighty-eight genes were identified as related to multidrug response in ER positive and 32 genes in ER negative breast cell lines. Of these, only three genes (DBI, TOP2A, and PMVK) were common to both cell types. TOP2A was positively associated with drug response, and DBI was negatively associated with drug response. Interestingly, PMVK was positively associated with drug response in ER positive cells and negatively in ER negative cells. Functional analysis showed that while cell cycle affects drug response in both ER positive and negative cells, most biological processes that are involved in drug response are distinct. A number of signaling pathways that are uniquely enriched in ER positive cells have complex cross talk with ER signaling, while in ER negative cells, enriched pathways are related to metabolic functions. Taken together, our analysis indicates that distinct mechanisms are involved in multidrug response in ER positive and ER negative breast cells. {\copyright} 2012 Shen et al.} } @unpublished{pittir12259, month = {July}, title = {Structural Model For Credit Default In One And Higher Dimensions}, author = {Bo Shi}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Credit Default, Structural Models, Intensity Models, Credit Default Swap, Call Option, Black-Scholes Equation, Large Homogeneous Model, Heterogeneous Model}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12259/}, abstract = {In this thesis, we provide a new structural model for default of a single name which is an extension in several directions of Merton's seminal work [41] and also propose a new hierarchical model in higher dimensions in a heterogeneous setting. Our new model takes advantage of the fact that currently much more data is readily available about the equity (stock) markets, and through our analysis, can be translated to the much less transparent credit markets. We show how this can be used to provide volatilities for the default indices in structural models for these same stocks. More importantly, we use the equity data to obtain an implied probability distribution for the firms' liabilities, a quantity that is only reported quarterly, and often with questionable reliability. This completes the structural model for a single firm by specifying (probabilistically) the absorbing default barrier. In particular, we can then obtain the default probability of this firm and capture its Credit Default Swap(CDS) spreads. For several companies selected from different industry sectors, the values that our model obtain are in good agreement with the credit market data. Furthermore, we are able to extend this approach to higher dimensional models (e.g., with 125 firms) where the correlations among the firms are essential. Specifically, we use hierarchical models for which each firm?s default boundary a linear combination of a systematic factor (e.g, the Dow Jones Industrial Average) and an idiosyncratic factor, with firm-to-firm correlations obtained through their correlations with the systemic factor. Once again the parameters for these high dimensional structural models are obtained from equity data and the resulting values for the tranche spreads for the CDX: NAIG Series 17 Collateralized Debt Obligations (CDO) compare favorably with actual market data. In the course of this work we also provide results for the probabilistic inverse first passage problem for a Brownian motion default index: given a default probability, find the probability distribution for linear default barriers (equivalently initial distributions) that reproduce the given default probability.} } @article{pittir13487, volume = {17}, number = {3}, month = {June}, author = {W Shi and J Joshi and T Zhang and EK Park and J Quemada}, title = {ACM/springer mobile networks and applications (monet) special issue on "collaborative computing: Networking, applications and worksharing}, journal = {Mobile Networks and Applications}, pages = {376 -- 377}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13487/}, abstract = {The 5th International Conference on Collaborative Computing: Networking, Applications and Worksharing (CollaborateCom) selected the three papers that relate to the theme of CollaborateCom and mobile computing. In the first paper titled 'Still Alive: Extending Keep-Alive Intervals in P2P Overlay Networks', Price et al. consider the node failure detection problem within peer-to-peer networks, an inherent trade-off between timely detection and bandwidth consumption for network maintenance. In the second paper titled 'The Design and Evaluation of Task Assignment Algorithms for GWAP-based Geospatial Tagging Systems', Chen et al. introduce three metrics and develop five task assignment algorithms to evaluate the GWAP-based geospatial tagging systems. In the third paper titled 'Secure Neighborhood Creation in Wireless Ad Hoc Networks using Hop Count Discrepancies', Hayajneh et al. study the secure neighborhood discovery problem in ad hoc and sensors networks, in which the nodes typically try to discover their neighbors simply by broadcasting a neighbor discovery request.} } @unpublished{pittir10821, month = {January}, title = {Perivascular Adipose Tissue of the Descending Thoracic Aorta, Vascular Calcification, and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus}, author = {Kelly Shields}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Cardiovascular Disease, Adipose, Perivascular Adipose Tissue, Vascular Calcification, Coronary Artery Calcification, Aortic Calcification }, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10821/}, abstract = {Aims: Women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Traditional CVD and disease related risk factors have been implicated, but do not fully account for this increased risk. Visceral adipose is most strongly associated with vascular dysfunction and metabolic disorder than other adipose regions. Perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) is a visceral adipose depot in close proximity to blood vessels, which may have more direct influence over vascular function and progression of CVD. We hypothesized that SLE patients have increased PVAT surrounding the descending thoracic aorta than healthy control subjects. For both SLE and control subjects, we examined the relation between PVAT and vascular calcification of the aorta (AC) and coronary arteries (CAC). Methods: Using EBT, we quantified the PVAT of the descending thoracic aortic PVAT in SLE (n=135) and age/race matched controls (n=152). Participants were non-diabetic and free of CVD. CAC and AC were quantified using Agatston scores and the PVAT was quantified using standard attenuation values for adipose tissue (?190 to ?30 HU) on commercially available software. The total PVAT volume (tPVAT) was calculated by summing the areas and multiplying by the length of the participant?s aorta. Results: The SLE women were more likely to be hypertensive (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.0001) and had a larger waist to hip ratio (p=0.001) than controls reflecting a different adipose distribution. The SLE group had a greater tPVAT than the control group (p=0.0071) despite no differences in BMI (p=0.26), or metabolic syndrome (MS, p=0.17). Total PVAT remained associated with SLE after adjusting for CVD risk factors including BMI (1.025[1.0-1.1], p=0.022), but was attenuated to non-significance with inflammatory factors (p=0.34). In a logistic regression analysis, tPVAT was associated with AC (1.073[1.043- 1.103],p{\ensuremath{<}}0.0001), which remained significant after adjustment for CVD and inflammatory factors including BMI (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.0007) and MS (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.0004). The tPVAT association with CAC (1.051[1.03-1.07],p{\ensuremath{<}}0.0001) was non-significant with BMI (p{\ensuremath{>}}0.075) and attenuated with MS (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.047) when adjusted for CVD or inflammatory factors. Conclusions: Total PVAT is greater in clinically CVD-free SLE versus control participants and is associated with AC independent of overall adiposity. This work contributes to the field of public health elucidating the mechanisms of CVD progression through PVAT in SLE patients and ultimately in the general population. } } @article{pittir24404, volume = {295}, month = {February}, title = {A game dynamic model for vaccine skeptics and vaccine believers: Measles as an example}, author = {E Shim and JJ Grefenstette and SM Albert and BE Cakouros and DS Burke}, year = {2012}, pages = {194 -- 203}, journal = {Journal of Theoretical Biology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/24404/}, abstract = {Widespread avoidance of Measles-Mumps-Rubella vaccination (MMR), with a consequent increase in the incidence of major measles outbreaks, demonstrates that the effectiveness of vaccination programs can be thwarted by the public misperceptions of vaccine risk. By coupling game theory and epidemic models, we examine vaccination choice among populations stratified into two behavioral groups: vaccine skeptics and vaccine believers. The two behavioral groups are assumed to be heterogeneous with respect to their perceptions of vaccine and infection risks. We demonstrate that the pursuit of self-interest among vaccine skeptics often leads to vaccination levels that are suboptimal for a population, even if complete coverage is achieved among vaccine believers. The demand for measles vaccine across populations driven by individual self-interest was found to be more sensitive to the proportion of vaccine skeptics than to the extent to which vaccine skeptics misperceive the risk of vaccine. Furthermore, as the number of vaccine skeptics increases, the probability of infection among vaccine skeptics increases initially, but it decreases once the vaccine skeptics begin receiving the vaccination, if both behavioral groups are vaccinated according to individual self-interest. Our results show that the discrepancy between the coverages of measles vaccine that are driven by self-interest and those driven by population interest becomes larger when the cost of vaccination increases. This research illustrates the importance of public education on vaccine safety and infection risk in order to maintain vaccination levels that are sufficient to maintain herd immunity. {\copyright} 2011 Elsevier Ltd.} } @article{pittir16049, volume = {7}, number = {9}, month = {September}, title = {Enamel Formation Genes Influence Enamel Microhardness Before and After Cariogenic Challenge}, author = {T Shimizu and B Ho and K Deeley and J Brise{\~n}o-Ruiz and IM Faraco and BI Schupack and JA Brancher and GD Pecharki and EC K{\"u}chler and PN Tannure and A Lips and TCS Vieira and A Patir and M Yildirim and FA Poletta and JC Mereb and JM Resick and CA Brandon and IM Orioli and EE Castilla and ML Marazita and F Seymen and MC Costa and JM Granjeiro and PC Trevilatto and AR Vieira}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16049/}, abstract = {There is evidence for a genetic component in caries susceptibility, and studies in humans have suggested that variation in enamel formation genes may contribute to caries. For the present study, we used DNA samples collected from 1,831 individuals from various population data sets. Single nucleotide polymorphism markers were genotyped in selected genes (ameloblastin, amelogenin, enamelin, tuftelin, and tuftelin interacting protein 11) that influence enamel formation. Allele and genotype frequencies were compared between groups with distinct caries experience. Associations with caries experience can be detected but they are not necessarily replicated in all population groups and the most expressive results was for a marker in AMELX (p = 0.0007). To help interpret these results, we evaluated if enamel microhardness changes under simulated cariogenic challenges are associated with genetic variations in these same genes. After creating an artificial caries lesion, associations could be seen between genetic variation in TUFT1 (p = 0.006) and TUIP11 (p = 0.0006) with enamel microhardness. Our results suggest that the influence of genetic variation of enamel formation genes may influence the dynamic interactions between the enamel surface and the oral cavity. {\copyright} 2012 Shimizu et al.} } @unpublished{pittir12097, month = {May}, title = {THE INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB) INFLUENCE ON INTERNATIONALIZING THE CURRICULUM IN SOUTH KOREAN SECONDARY SCHOOLS: MAPPING CONSIDERATIONS FOR THE FUTURE DESIGN OF AN INTEGRATED K-20 SYSTEM }, author = {Ga Young Shin}, year = {2012}, keywords = {international, internationalize, curriculum, International Baccalaureate, South Korea}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12097/}, abstract = {As globalization spreads, many people in South Korea have become aware of the importance of educating the next generation with internationalized curricula. This study examines the perspectives of schools, the government in South Korea, and transnational certifiers and curriculum designers to see how they define international curricula, what concepts they are ignoring, and what are the challenges in providing an internationally accredited curriculum such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) in the South Korean educational context. The study uses qualitative research methods, analysing documents written by the government, formal school administrators, and national associations acoording to criteria suggested by the literature. The study concludes by a map depicting the priorities and stances of the various stakeholders in the South Korea international education field. This figure is used to make recommendations regarding future actions for each stakeholder. } } @unpublished{pittir23336, author = {Scott Shirar and Loukas Barton and James W Jordan and Jeff Rasic}, address = {Fairbanks, AK}, title = {Archaeological survey - Chignik-Meshik Rivers Region, AK: a report on a 2011 CESU agreement.}, type = {Project Report}, publisher = {University of Alaska Museum of the North}, institution = {University of Pittsburgh}, pages = {Copy on file at the University of Alaska Museum of the North, Fairbanks, Alaska and the National Park Service Regional Office, Anchorage, Alaska. -- ?}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/23336/} } @article{pittir14166, volume = {7}, number = {3}, month = {March}, title = {Impaired clearance and enhanced pulmonary inflammatory/fibrotic response to carbon nanotubes in myeloperoxidase-deficient mice}, author = {AA Shvedova and AA Kapralov and WH Feng and ER Kisin and AR Murray and RR Mercer and CM St. Croix and MA Lang and SC Watkins and NV Konduru and BL Allen and J Conroy and GP Kotchey and BM Mohamed and AD Meade and Y Volkov and A Star and B Fadeel and VE Kagan}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14166/}, abstract = {Advancement of biomedical applications of carbonaceous nanomaterials is hampered by their biopersistence and pro-inflammatory action in vivo. Here, we used myeloperoxidase knockout B6.129X1-MPO (MPO k/o) mice and showed that oxidation and clearance of single walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) from the lungs of these animals after pharyngeal aspiration was markedly less effective whereas the inflammatory response was more robust than in wild-type C57Bl/6 mice. Our results provide direct evidence for the participation of MPO - one of the key-orchestrators of inflammatory response - in the in vivo pulmonary oxidative biodegradation of SWCNT and suggest new ways to control the biopersistence of nanomaterials through genetic or pharmacological manipulations. {\copyright} 2012.} } @unpublished{pittir13618, month = {September}, title = {NETWORKS AND PERFORMANCE IN PUBLIC ORGANIZATIONS: THEORY, MODELS, AND MEASUREMENT}, author = {Michael D. Siciliano}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Public Administration; Education Policy; Social Network Analysis; Teacher Collaboration; Social Capital; Public Policy}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13618/}, abstract = {This study explores the antecedents of intra-organizational networks and the consequences of network structure on the attitudes and performance of public school teachers in twenty-one schools. On the antecedent side, the relationships among teacher social networks, teacher attributes, and interpersonal perceptions were assessed. The results, based on a meta-analysis of each school's statistical model, indicate that teacher interpersonal perceptions along eleven salient personality traits were important predictors of network formation. The results point toward the significance of psychological and cognitive factors in network formation that are often overlooked in structural analysis. Network autocorrelation models were used to assess how the attitudes and beliefs of a teacher's peers in the advice and friendship networks influence the teacher's own attitudes and beliefs. While the total quantity of network activity was shown to have little effect on measures of self-efficacy and organizational commitment, the quality of one's social connections was strongly predictive. For student engagement efficacy, classroom management efficacy, instructional strategy efficacy, and organizational commitment, teachers were positively influenced by the efficacy and commitment beliefs of their peers in the advice network. Therefore, it was not simply the number of connections a teacher formed in a network that was important but rather the attitudes and beliefs held by those social connections. Analysis revealed that friendship ties, which are capable of transmitting negative dialogue and sentiment, can potentially have a detrimental influence on efficacy and commitment when those ties do not coexist with advice ties. Value-added measures of teacher performance were built to measure the gain in student test scores that could be attributed to a particular teacher. Statistical models showed that two variables were significant and positive predictors of both math and reading value-added: the amount of reflective dialogue in the school and the organizational commitment of a teacher's peers. The latter variable suggests that teacher performance is driven by social connections to strongly committed coworkers rather than one's own sense of organizational commitment. Overall, the study provides strong evidence of the importance of social connections within schools and suggests that current policy aimed at creating greater levels of competition among teachers in schools may be counterproductive as competition can hinder collaboration. } } @article{pittir29841, volume = {10}, number = {1}, month = {September}, title = {Whole genome methylation profiles as independent markers of survival in stage IIIC melanoma patients}, author = {L Sigalotti and A Covre and E Fratta and G Parisi and P Sonego and F Colizzi and S Coral and S Massarut and JM Kirkwood and M Maio}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of Translational Medicine}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29841/}, abstract = {Background: The clinical course of cutaneous melanoma (CM) can differ significantly for patients with identical stages of disease, defined clinico-pathologically, and no molecular markers differentiate patients with such a diverse prognosis. This study aimed to define the prognostic value of whole genome DNA methylation profiles in stage III CM.Methods: Genome-wide methylation profiles were evaluated by the Illumina Human Methylation 27 BeadChip assay in short-term neoplastic cell cultures from 45 stage IIIC CM patients. Unsupervised K-means partitioning clustering was exploited to sort patients into 2 groups based on their methylation profiles. Methylation patterns related to the discovered groups were determined using the nearest shrunken centroid classification algorithm. The impact of genome-wide methylation patterns on overall survival (OS) was assessed using Cox regression and Kaplan-Meier analyses.Results: Unsupervised K-means partitioning by whole genome methylation profiles identified classes with significantly different OS in stage IIIC CM patients. Patients with a " favorable" methylation profile had increased OS (P = 0.001, log-rank = 10.2) by Kaplan-Meier analysis. Median OS of stage IIIC patients with a " favorable" vs. " unfavorable" methylation profile were 31.5 and 10.4 months, respectively. The 5 year OS for stage IIIC patients with a " favorable" methylation profile was 41.2\% as compared to 0\% for patients with an " unfavorable" methylation profile. Among the variables examined by multivariate Cox regression analysis, classification defined by methylation profile was the only predictor of OS (Hazard Ratio = 2.41, for " unfavorable" methylation profile; 95\% Confidence Interval: 1.02-5.70; P = 0.045). A 17 gene methylation signature able to correctly assign prognosis (overall error rate = 0) in stage IIIC patients on the basis of distinct methylation-defined groups was also identified.Conclusions: A discrete whole-genome methylation signature has been identified as molecular marker of prognosis for stage IIIC CM patients. Its use in daily practice is foreseeable, and promises to refine the comprehensive clinical management of stage III CM patients. {\copyright} 2012 Sigalotti et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir11899, month = {July}, title = {Pancreatic Cancer Risk Perception and Worry in Familial High-risk Patients Undergoing Endoscopic Ultrasound for Surveillance}, author = {Erica Silver}, year = {2012}, keywords = {pancreatic cancer, level of worry, risk perception, endoscopic ultrasound}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11899/}, abstract = {Pancreatic cancer is a devastating disease with a five-year survival rate of 5.6\%. Approximately 5 ? 10\% of cancer diagnoses are due to a hereditary predisposition. While some cancer syndromes have been shown to increase the risk for pancreatic cancer above the population risk of {\texttt{\char126}}2\%, a gene for familial pancreatic cancer has not been identified. In either of these situations, surveillance for high-risk individuals has not been well established as compared to other more common cancers associated with hereditary cancer syndromes. The goal of this study is to identify familial individuals? top motivation for attending the high-risk pancreas clinic, and for those individuals who elect endoscopic ultrasound, assess if their feelings about their cancer risk and level of worry change after the procedure. For this study, a high-risk, unaffected population was recruited, along with a comparison group of individuals referred for endoscopic ultrasound due to a pancreatic abnormality. Using the Health Belief Model as a framework, participants were asked to complete two validated questionnaires pertaining to their cancer risk perception and level of worry about pancreatic cancer. The first questionnaire was completed before the endoscopic ultrasound, and the second questionnaire was sent home with the participant after the procedure for completion. Data analysis revealed both similarities and differences in the two cohorts. Both populations showed similar trends in the benefits of the endoscopic ultrasound and the fear of the procedure due to a potential negative outcome. Family history and familial support demonstrated the largest difference in trend values between the case and comparison cohorts. This study has public health importance because of the serious consequences of pancreatic cancer. High-risk individuals are looking for surveillance options to improve the early detection of pancreatic cancer, and to date, there is not an established surveillance protocol. As more research is done, a better understanding of the psychosocial impact of surveillance in this population can be better understood.} } @unpublished{pittir11166, month = {May}, title = {ARE GOOD INTENTIONS ENOUGH? AN INVESTIGATION OF HOW MENTOR EXPERIENCES AND EXPERTISE AFFECT MENTOR-MENTEE RELATIONSHIP DEVELOPMENT AND TARGETED YOUTH OUTCOMES }, author = {Lauren A. Silverstein}, year = {2012}, keywords = {mentoring, youth mentoring, out-of-school-time programs, human capital development, evidence-based educational practice, equity}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11166/}, abstract = {In the United States, youth mentoring programs are becoming an increasingly popular educational partnership between community adults and local children. Even though programs rely on mentors to help achieve the desired outcomes, very little is known about ?what matters? in a mentor. Adhering to functionalist, human capital, teacher quality and possible selves theories, this study examines if certain mentor experiences and expertise including motivation, education and knowledge areas facilitate relationship development and positive changes in the mentee?s future possible self. A secondary data analysis, this study involved survey responses from 119 mentor-mentee pairs involved in a citywide mentoring program. Multiple regression was used to examine the relationship between the explanatory mentor characteristics and the relationship and youth outcome variables along three different paths: 1) effect of mentor attributes on relationship quality; 2) effect of mentor attributes on mentee future possible self; and 3) effect of mentor attributes on mentee future possible self; accounting for relationship quality. Perceptions of relationship quality and changes in mentee?s future possible self are measured by the program?s most important stakeholders: the youth. This study confirmed prior research that suggests relationship quality is positive and significant in yielding targeted youth outcomes. However, this study extends the research in several important areas. First, certain mentor domains such as prior experiences with youth and with program content affect their ability to develop high-quality relationships. Second, even when high-quality relationships exist, certain mentor domains further facilitate or hinder their ability to achieve targeted youth outcomes. As such, this study establishes an inter-dependent relationship between relationship quality and future mentee outcomes suggesting mentoring programs must understand mentor quality by their ability to develop high quality relationships with youth and their ability to affect longer-term outcomes. This study offers more precise recommendations to programs by summarizing the mentor experiences and expertise that were found to be both significant and insignificant in facilitating high relationship quality and the longer-term outcome of changes in the mentee future possible self. Programs can use these findings to inform their mentor recruitment, selection and retention strategies. } } @unpublished{pittir10741, month = {January}, title = {Eruption and Emplacement Mechanisms and Paleoenvironment of Phreatomagmatic Tephra at Koko Crater Tuff Cone, O?ahu, Hawaii}, author = {Elizabeth Simoneau}, year = {2012}, keywords = {phreatomagmatic, tephra, Koko Crater, tuff cone, emplacement}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10741/}, abstract = {The emplacement processes of proximal tuff cone deposits are often difficult to distinguish. This thesis focuses on the steep outer flank and surrounding apron deposits of Koko Crater, O?ahu, Hawaii. Four sections were logged in detail and interpreted. The steep outer slope deposits are dominated by slumped pyroclastic fallout deposits, some of which may be directly eruption-fed, and minor pyroclastic density current (PDC) deposits, that are rarely slumped. The lack of slumping of the PDC deposits is interpreted as due to their lower eruption volumes, lower depositional rates, lower water content, and longer transport distances, all of which favor more stable slopes. Slumping is also less common on previously slumped substrate, as slumps typically generate a lower gradient than the primary deposits. The occurrence of PDC deposits overlying fallout deposits, may suggest that the PDC deposits were generated by column collapse (partial, sustained or complete). The flanking apron deposits, i.e. those around the base of the steep outer slopes, are dominated by pyroclastic density current, with minor fallout deposits. Slumping is rare in the flanking apron deposits, probably because of the lower substrate gradients. The increasing abundance of PDC deposits with distance from the vent is most likely due to the longer transport distance compared to the ballistic fallout. } } @inproceedings{pittir12371, month = {July}, title = {A case for adaptive sub-carrier level power allocation in OFDMA networks}, author = {S Singh and M Shahbazi and K Pelechrinis and K Sundaresan and SV Krishnamurthy and S Addepalli}, year = {2012}, pages = {225 -- 234}, journal = {Proceedings of the International Symposium on Mobile Ad Hoc Networking and Computing (MobiHoc)}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12371/}, abstract = {In today's OFDMA networks, the transmission power is typically fixed and the same for all the sub-carriers that compose a channel. The sub-carriers though, experience different degrees of fading and thus, the received power is different for different sub-carriers; while some frequencies experience deep fades, others are relatively unaffected. In this paper, we make a case of redistributing the power across the sub-carriers (subject to a fixed power budget constraint) to better cope with this frequency selectivity. Specifically, we design a joint power and rate adaptation scheme (called JPRA for short) wherein power redistribution is combined with sub-carrier level rate adaptation to yield significant throughput benefits. We further consider two variants of JPRA: (a) JPRA-CR where, the power is redistributed across sub-carriers so as to support a maximum common rate (CR) across sub-carriers and (b) JPRA-MT where, the goal is to redistribute power such that the transmission time of a packet is minimized. While the first variant decreases transceiver complexity and is simpler, the second is geared towards achieving the maximum throughput possible. We implement both variants of JPRA on our WARP radio testbed. Our extensive experiments demonstrate that our scheme provides a 35\% improvement in total network throughput in testbed experiments compared to FARA, a scheme where only sub-carrier level rate adaptation is used. We also perform simulations to demonstrate the efficacy of JPRA in larger scale networks. {\copyright} 2012 ACM.} } @article{pittir18732, volume = {16}, number = {1}, month = {January}, author = {EM Skoda and GC Davis and P Wipf}, title = {Allylic amines as key building blocks in the synthesis of (E)-alkene peptide isosteres}, journal = {Organic Process Research and Development}, pages = {26 -- 34}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18732/}, abstract = {Nucleophilic imine additions with vinyl organometallics have developed into efficient, high-yielding, and robust methodologies to generate structurally diverse allylic amines. We have used the hydrozirconation/transmetalation/imine addition protocol in the synthesis of allylic amine intermediates for peptide bond isosteres, phosphatase inhibitors, and mitochondria-targeted peptide mimetics. The gramicidin S-derived XJB-5-131 and JP4-039 and their analogues have been prepared on up to 160-g scale for preclinical studies. These (E)-alkene peptide isosteres adopt type II {\ensuremath{\beta}}-turn secondary structures and display impressive biological properties including selective reactions with reactive oxygen species (ROS) and prevention of apoptosis. {\copyright} 2012 American Chemical Society.} } @unpublished{pittir11889, month = {June}, title = {RULEBENDER: INTEGRATED MODELING, SIMULATION, AND VISUALIZATION FOR RULE-BASED INTRACELLULAR BIOCHEMISTRY}, author = {Adam Smith}, year = {2012}, keywords = {BioInformatics, InfoVis, Information Visualization, Human Computer Interaction}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11889/}, abstract = {Rule-based modeling (RBM) is a powerful and increasingly popular approach to modeling cell signaling networks. However, novel visual tools are needed in order to make RBM accessible to a broad range of users, to make specification of models less error prone, and to improve workflows. We introduce RuleBender, a novel visualization system for the integrated visualization, modeling and simulation of rule-based intracellular biochemistry. We present the user requirements, visual paradigms, algorithms and design decisions behind RuleBender, with emphasis on visual global/local model exploration and integrated execution of simulations. The support of RBM creation, debugging, and interactive visualization expedites the RBM learning process and reduces model construction time; while built-in model simulation and results with multiple linked views streamline the execution and analysis of newly created models and generated networks. RuleBender has been adopted as both an educational and a research tool and is available as a free open source tool at http://www.rulebender.org. A development cycle that includes close interaction with expert users allows RuleBender to better serve the needs of the systems biology community.} } @unpublished{pittir10563, month = {February}, title = {Personal Connections to the Political World: Social Influences on Democratic Competence in Brazil and in Comparative Context}, author = {Amy Erica Smith}, year = {2012}, keywords = {social networks; political behavior; electoral behavior; Brazil; comparative politics; Latin American politics}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10563/}, abstract = {Conversation is at democracy?s core. In this dissertation, I examine citizens? political discussion networks and their effects on democratic competence, meaning what citizens know about and how they interact with their political systems. I investigate how patterns of discussion and discussion?s impacts vary across the world, paying particular attention to Brazil. Data come from panel studies spanning Brazil?s 2002, 2006, and 2010 presidential elections, as well as a case study of the 2008 local elections; and from an eleven country study in the 1990s. I address three broad research questions. First, does political discussion affect democratic competence, and for whom? While the claim that political discussion has democratic benefits is common, selection effects make demonstrating causal claims difficult, since politically knowledgeable and engaged citizens are likely to choose to discuss politics. Using fixed effects and instrumental variables models, I find strong evidence that conversation promotes knowledge and participation, and that it has a ?leveling effect,? helping citizens with lowest initial knowledge catch up with their neighbors. Moreover, spouses are particularly influential, and women give higher priority to spouses as their closest political discussants. Second, how does knowing people with different political opinions affect democratic competence? The key to solving longstanding debates requires recognizing that divergent preferences take two forms{--}the total preferences in the network (diversity) and the extent of disagreement with the reference person (conflict). Using multilevel models, I find that in systems with low numbers of candidates, conflict is demobilizing, but only when the network homogeneously disagrees with the reference person. Moreover, conflict combined with diversity promotes learning. In systems with more candidates, however, the effects of conflict disappear. Third, how do the electoral and party systems shape networks? And what are the downstream consequences for democratic competence? The number of candidates in a political system strongly affects exposure to diverse and conflicting preferences as well as the probability of knowing candidates and activists. I estimate that three-quarters of respondents in the local election I study in Brazil knew personally a candidate; using matching, I find that such connections promoted political engagement, but also fostered clientelism.} } @article{pittir20582, volume = {11}, number = {3-4}, month = {August}, author = {J Smith and B Glidden}, title = {Occupy Pittsburgh and the Challenges of Participatory Democracy}, journal = {Social Movement Studies}, pages = {288 -- 294}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20582/}, abstract = {Local manifestations of Occupy Wall Street (OWS) have emerged around the world with enthusiasm for the participatory style used in Zuccotti Park (New York). However, less attention has been paid to earlier lessons about the limits of these techniques for building diverse and sustainable movements. Much of the discussion in the USA ignores how OWS is connected to the long-term and global struggle against corporate-led globalization. Also, models of consensus practiced in many OWS sites have become reified to the verge of fetishization. Activists in the USA have yet to effectively incorporate many lessons from global justice activism including the need for a global analysis and strategy as well as greater sensitivity to how consensus practices can exclude people most harmed by the structures the movement opposes. This study draws from our involvement in Occupy Pittsburgh (Pennsylvania) and in the US Social Forum and World Social Forum (WSF) to compare the participatory democratic practices in each setting and identify lessons about organizing broad coalitions against capitalist globalization. {\copyright} 2012 Copyright Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.} } @article{pittir20748, volume = {17}, number = {2}, month = {June}, author = {Jackie Smith}, title = {Alter-Globalization: Becoming Actors in the Global Age}, journal = {MOBILIZATION}, pages = {221 -- 222}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20748/} } @article{pittir20583, volume = {4}, number = {2}, month = {November}, author = {Jackie Smith}, title = {Connecting social movements and political moments: bringing movement building tools from global justice to Occupy Wall Street activism}, publisher = {Interface}, year = {2012}, journal = {Interface: A Journal for and about Social Movements}, pages = {369 -- 382}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20583/}, abstract = {The current political moment has given birth to the Occupy Wall Street (OWS) and other forms of resistance around the world. How might this moment of upsurge in global protest be sustained and expanded? This paper considers how earlier movements can contribute to today?s struggles. Many contemporary activists conceptualize their struggle in local or national rather than global terms, and most have yet to fully explore the lessons and resources of earlier movements. Yet, the global justice movement and World Social Forums offer important strategic lessons and models to inform an emancipatory project that addresses the concerns of contemporary activists. Global justice movements have expressed a three-part strategy of resisting and rolling back neoliberal globalization, articulating alternatives to globalized capitalism, and working to build collective power. While OWS has helped spark new activism around the work of resisting economic globalization and (in a more limited way) articulating alternatives to capitalism, in many places it has been less attentive to the long-range work of movement-building. Efforts by OWS activists to connect with and build upon these earlier streams of organizing work can strengthen momentum for global social change.} } @article{pittir20747, volume = {127}, number = {2}, title = {Digitally Enabled Social Change: Activism in the Internet Age}, author = {Jackie Smith}, year = {2012}, pages = {332 -- 333}, journal = {POLITICAL SCIENCE QUARTERLY}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20747/} } @article{pittir20749, volume = {116}, number = {1}, month = {July}, author = {Jackie Smith}, title = {Global Justice Networks: Geographies of Transnational Solidarity}, publisher = {University of Notre Dame}, year = {2012}, journal = {American Journal of Sociology}, pages = {314 -- 316}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20749/} } @inproceedings{pittir20766, booktitle = {Global Studies Association Annual Conference: Dystopia and Global Rebellion}, month = {May}, title = {Historical and Global Dimensions of the Occupy Wall Street Movement}, author = {Jackie Smith}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20766/} } @incollection{pittir20608, volume = {37}, month = {July}, author = {Jackie Smith}, series = {Social Movements, Protest, and Contention}, note = {Print ISBN: 9780816672899}, booktitle = {Strategies for Social Change}, editor = {Gregory M Maney and Rachel V Kutz-Flamenbaum and Deana A Rohlinger and Jeff Goodwin}, title = {Local Strategies for Global Change: Working for Human Rights and Economic Empowerment in the Midwest}, address = {Minneapolis, MN}, publisher = {University of Minnesota Press}, year = {2012}, pages = {120 -- 143}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20608/} } @incollection{pittir20610, author = {Jackie Smith}, note = {Whole book downloadable at the publisher website.}, booktitle = {Global Civil Society: Shifting Powers in a Shifting World}, editor = {Heidi Moksnes and Mia Melin}, address = {Uppsala, Sweden}, title = {Transactional Activism and Global Social Change}, publisher = {Uppsala Center for Sustainable Development}, year = {2012}, pages = {9 -- 26}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20610/} } @article{pittir26748, volume = {11}, number = {3-4}, title = {Occupy Pittsburgh \& the Challenges of Participatory Democracy}, author = {Jackie Smith and Glidden Bob}, year = {2012}, pages = {288 -- 294}, journal = {Social Movement Studies}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/26748/}, abstract = {Local manifestations of Occupy Wall Street (OWS) have emerged around the world with enthusiasm for the participatory style used in Zuccotti Park (New York). However, less attention has been paid to earlier lessons about the limits of these techniques for building diverse and sustainable movements. Much of the discussion in the United States ignores how OWS is connected to the long-term and global struggle against corporate-led globalization. Also, models of consensus practiced in many OWS sites have become reified to the verge of fetishization. Activists in the U.S. have yet to effectively incorporate many lessons from global justice activism, including the need for a global analysis and strategy as well as greater sensitivity to how consensus practices can exclude people most harmed by the structures the movement opposes. This essay draws from our involvement in Occupy Pittsburgh (Pennsylvania) and in the U.S. and World Social Forums (WSF) to compare the participatory democratic practices in each setting and identify lessons about organizing broad coalitions against capitalist globalization. Smith has participated in several World Social Forums and is on the National Planning Committee of the U.S. Social Forum. She and Glidden are co-facilitators of the outreach working group of Occupy Pittsburgh. Glidden participated in both U.S. Social Forums and in the Greens movement in the United States prior to his work in Occupy Pittsburgh.} } @incollection{pittir26752, booktitle = {A Handbook of World Social Forum Activism}, title = {Democratic Innovation in the U.S. and European Social Forums}, author = {Jackie Smith and Nicole Doerr}, address = {Boulder, CO}, publisher = {Paradigm}, year = {2012}, pages = {339 -- 359}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/26752/}, abstract = {Democratization is an ongoing, conflict-ridden process, resulting from contestation between social movements and political elites (Markoff 1996; Tilly 1984). The struggle to make elites more accountable to a larger public has produced the democratic institutions with which we are familiar, and it continues to shape and reconfigure these institutions. It also transforms the individuals and organizations involved in social change, generating social movement cultures, norms and practices that evolve over time. In this chapter, we conceptualize the World Social Forum (WSF) process as part of a larger historical struggle over people?s right to participate in decisions that affect their lives. We examine the democratic practices and norms developed in the US and European Social Forum processes.} } @incollection{pittir20609, month = {January}, author = {Jackie Smith and Nicole Doerr}, booktitle = {A Handbook of the World Social Forum Activism}, editor = {Jackie Smith and Ellen Reese and Scott Byrd and Elizabeth Smythe}, address = {Boulder, CO}, title = {Democratic Innovation in the U.S. and European Social Forums}, publisher = {Paradigm Publishers}, year = {2012}, pages = {339--359}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20609/}, abstract = {Democratization is an ongoing, conflict-ridden process, resulting from contestation between social movements and political elites (Markoff 1996; Tilly 1984). The struggle to make elites more accountable to a larger public has produced the democratic institutions with which we are familiar, and it continues to shape and reconfigure these institutions. It also transforms the individuals and organizations involved in social change, generating social movement cultures, norms and practices that evolve over time. In this chapter, we conceptualize the World Social Forum (WSF) process as part of a larger historical struggle over people?s right to participate in decisions that affect their lives. We examine the democratic practices and norms developed in the US and European Social Forum processes.} } @article{pittir26811, month = {March}, title = {The Future of Occupy: From Occupying People?s Park to Changing the System}, author = {Jackie Smith and Bob Glidden}, publisher = {American Sociological Association}, year = {2012}, journal = {American Sociological Association Peace, War, and Social Conflict Section Newsletter}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/26811/}, abstract = {Peace, War and Social Conflict Section members may be interested in this reflection on our local experiences of the Occupy Wall Street Movement. PWSC member Jackie Smith has been researching the connections between local and global activism, and this piece explores some of the possibilities for strengthening these connections while also expanding social movement alliances across racial, class, and other divides.} } @book{pittir20572, month = {January}, title = {Social Movements in the World-System: The Politics of Crisis and Transformation}, author = {Jackie Smith and Dawn Wiest}, address = {New Brunswick, NJ}, publisher = {Russell Sage Foundation}, year = {2012}, series = {American Sociological Association: Rose Series in Sociology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20572/} } @article{pittir29889, volume = {9}, month = {May}, title = {Naive CD8+T cells from ART respond to primary vaccination against autologous HIV-1 antigen}, author = {Kellie N Smith and Robbie B Mailliard and Weimin Jiang}, year = {2012}, journal = {RETROVIROLOGY}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29889/} } @unpublished{pittir11695, month = {July}, title = {Web-based Monitoring of Pain Management in Adolescent and Young Adult Sickle Cell Patients Through Daily Self-Assessment}, author = {Meagan Smith}, year = {2012}, keywords = {web-based application, Sickle Cell Disease, pain management}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11695/}, abstract = {There is a wide range of variability in the clinical phenotype of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), resulting in a vast array of clinical presentations ranging from acute, recurrent vaso-occlusive pain episodes to chronic pain, increased risk of strokes, acute chest syndromes and osteonecrosis. Historically, pain crises have been defined by whether or not the patient seeks medical attention. Previous studies have shown that while patients with SCD are in pain 54.5\% of the time, they are only seeking medical attention during 3.5\% of these episodes. This has led to a gross underestimation of the prevalence of pain episodes, due to discrepancies in both the definition and reporting of these episodes. There is currently no utility available to accurately assess and manage pain levels in Sickle Cell patients who are not utilizing medical facilities. The implementation of a web-based application to monitor daily pain levels is relevant to public health because it is likely to provide medical teams with the tools necessary to track patient pain levels more precisely. This will also enable healthcare providers to be more proactive with regard to pain management in patients with SCD. Twenty-nine patients were asked to record their level of pain three times daily for six months via a web-based application. The application asked patients to appraise their pain level by use of a Visual Analog Scale (VAS), ranging from 0 (no pain) to 10 (extreme pain). Each patient was assigned a non-specific identifier that enabled him or her to log into the system without referencing any personal health information. Pain measurements were electronically time stamped and all information was filtered to ensure the protection of patient sensitive information. Authorized team members were alerted of pain episodes by email (pain levels of 5- 7) or text message (pain levels of 8-10). The patient was then contacted and information was gathered regarding the location and duration of pain, the presence of other symptoms and social factors that influenced a patient?s decision to seek medical intervention. Of the 29 patients enrolled in the study, 21 patients accessed the web-based application and provided a total of 4,981 pain data entries over a six month time period. Patients reported that they were in no pain (pain score of 0) 23.4\% of the days logged, in pain (pain score of 1-7) 76.6\% of the days logged and in pain crisis (pain score of 8-10) 12.2\% of the days logged. This data provides proof of the principle that adolescents with SCD will provide electronic reports of their pain multiple times a day over an extended period of time. This preliminary data also suggests that the prevalence of pain in adolescents is much greater than previously reported. } } @unpublished{pittir12439, month = {October}, title = {Narrative Disruptions in Composition's Culture of Scholarship}, author = {Ryan Smith Madan}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Personal Narrative, Writing Pedagogies, Two-Year College, Narratives of Teaching, Cultures of Scholarship, Disciplinarity}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12439/}, abstract = {This dissertation examines the reception of narrative scholarship within Composition Studies. Scholarly narratives{--}that is, stories of teaching and learning from and about the writing classroom{--}circulate widely in Composition Studies? scholarly body, yet their prevalence belies the dismissal they face as unrigorous and atheoretical. I argue that the field should more closely attend to the kinds of knowledge narrative scholarship offers. Further, I contend that such an investigation into narrative?s case exposes tacit interpretive practices that circumscribe the discipline?s dominant ways of reading scholarly work. Narrative scholarship, and the field?s arguments over its (il)legitimacy, have potential to productively ?disrupt? dominant practices of scholarly production and consumption that are often perpetuated uncritically and to the discipline?s own detriment. This disruption allows reflection not only about the narrow question of whether stories of teaching and learning have value, but also on the conservative disciplinary commitments that underpin composition?s culture of scholarship. Such self-reflection is important, I maintain, for our own professional identities, for what we invite or discourage in our discipline?s intellectual conversations. But it is equally important for our teaching since the judgments we make about what counts as ?worthy? scholarship have consequences for our writing pedagogies{--}especially for first-year composition courses that ask students to write personal narrative essays.} } @article{pittir29862, volume = {13}, number = {S1}, month = {July}, author = {Abigail Snyder and Jonathan Rubin}, title = {Can a central pattern generator produce multiple motor patterns? Modeling scratch rhythms in turtle}, publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC}, journal = {BMC Neuroscience}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29862/} } @article{pittir22117, volume = {8}, number = {11}, month = {November}, title = {Genome Instability Caused by a Germline Mutation in the Human DNA Repair Gene POLB}, author = {RW Sobol}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS Genetics}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22117/} } @unpublished{pittir10748, month = {January}, title = {Faculty Gender and Student-Centered Pedagogical Approaches in the use of a Course Management System }, author = {Meghan Solomon}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Course management system, student-centered pedagogy}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10748/}, abstract = {The use of technology for instruction continues to increase and is playing a more significant role in higher education (DeAngelo et al., 2009). As instructional technology has become a more integral part of college and university teaching, researchers have noted gender-related differences in regard to faculty approach, perception, and implementation of technology (Campbell \& Varnhagen, 2002). While research investigating traditional classroom settings has suggested that female faculty have historically shown a stronger preference for student-centered pedagogy as compared to male faculty (e.g., Lammers \& Murphy, 2002; Statham-Macke, 1980), fewer studies have focused on how potential gendered pedagogical preferences translate into use of and approach to instructional technology in higher education. Consequently, it is important to investigate faculty gender and pedagogical preference in the application of instructional technology in order to inform practice within institutions of higher education. This dissertation investigates what happens when male and female faculty use a course management system (CMS) to present all or part of their instructional program online through the use of qualitative methods. A comparative case study grounded in a theoretical framework based on Women?s Ways of Knowing and feminist pedagogy guided analysis of data collected from faculty interviews, course observations, and content analysis of syllabi. After considering the narratives of the eight faculty participants in this study as well as course observation and document analysis, several speculative results emerged, including the notion that female faculty participants may be more likely to invite student feedback on their course. I believe that engaging students in the construction of the online component of the course may suggest that female faculty are more critically reflective of their instructional program online. In addition, females may be more likely to encourage the formation of an online community. The encouragement of student interaction in the course is considered to be more student-centered because it encourages a more democratic construction of knowledge. While there were differences based on the context of each course, female faculty respondents were more likely to use multiple ways to interact with students and offer their feedback and support. The integration of student experiences with course content and use of technologic functions resulted in intentional personalization of the course for students. Type of presentation (online versus hybrid) and level of instruction (graduate versus undergraduate) also were related to student-centered instructional approaches to the Blackboard CMS, as I observed in this study. The online faculty used the technology more heavily than did the faculty teaching face-to-face, most likely a function of the goals of the respective types of instructional programs. The graduate courses, in general, were more likely to include student discussion leading to a more democratic construction of knowledge, a testament to the specific aims of that type of course. Findings are discussed with respect to their implications for understanding gendered patterns of the use of instructional technology. } } @article{pittir17805, volume = {31}, number = {1}, month = {January}, author = {A Solovyev and SJ Geib and E Lac{\^o}te and DP Curran}, title = {Reactions of boron-substituted N-heterocyclic carbene boranes with triflic acid. Isolation of a new dihydroxyborenium cation}, journal = {Organometallics}, pages = {54 -- 56}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17805/}, abstract = {Reactions of NHC-BH 2X (where X = Cl, OTf and NHC = 1,3-bis(2,6-diisopropylphenyl)imidazol-2-ylidene) with 1 equiv of triflic acid provide the stable products of acid/base reactions NHC-BH(OTf) 2 and NHC-BH(OTf)Cl. Further reactions of these compounds with additional triflic acid (or direct reactions of NHCBH 3 with excess triflic acid) produce the isolable dihydroxyborenium triflate [NHCB(OH) 2] +TfO -. This first-in-class ligated borenium ion has been characterized by NMR spectroscopy and X-ray crystallography. {\copyright} 2011 American Chemical Society.} } @unpublished{pittir10833, month = {July}, title = {CHEMISTRY OF N-HETEROCYCLIC CARBENE?BORANE COMPLEXES}, author = {Andrey Solovyev}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Carbene, Boron, Complexes, Lewis}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10833/}, abstract = {Studies on chemistry of N-heterocyclic carbene-borane complexes (NHC-boranes), a new class of organic reagents, are reported. The radical chain mechanism of xanthate reduction with NHC-boranes has been established by the evaluation of rate constants of hydrogen abstraction, the isolation of boron-derived by-products, and EPR spectroscopic studies. NHC-BH3 complexes have been found to react with many electrophilic compounds. They reduce alkyl halides and sulfonates by an ionic mechanism. The boron products of their reactions with halogenation agents, Br{\o}nsted and Lewis acids were isolated and characterized. NHC-boryl iodide and triflate complexes undergo nucleophilic substitutions at the boron atom. In this way, a variety of substituted boranes with unusual and unprecedented structural motifs were prepared, including boryl azides, nitrosooxyborane, and nitroborane. The reaction with phenoxides in tetrahydrofuran (THF) afforded unexpected products of THF ring opening. A compound with a novel dihydroxyborenium cation was obtained from certain disubstituted NHC-boranes under acidic conditions. Reduction of NHC-boryl iodide complex with lithium di-tert-butylbiphenylide (LDDB) gave a reactive NHC-boryl anion. This was trapped with several electrophiles to obtain boron-substituted complexes, including acyl boranes. Deprotonation of imidazol-2-ylidene-boranes with BuLi and subsequent reactions with electrophiles allowed us to prepare ring-functionalized NHC-borane complexes. The resulting complexes of substituted NHC and BH3 can be converted to corresponding substituted imidazolium salts by a simple deboronation protocol.} } @article{pittir23375, volume = {62-63}, month = {July}, title = {Heterostructured zero valent iron-montmorillonite nanohybrid and their catalytic efficacy}, author = {YH Son and JK Lee and Y Soong and D Martello and MK Chyu}, year = {2012}, pages = {21 -- 26}, journal = {Applied Clay Science}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/23375/}, abstract = {Nanohybrid catalysts that comprised montmorillonite (Mt) matrix and embedded zero-valent Fe nanoparticle are presented. In this process, clay particles are used as 2-dimensional template that induce the growth of intercalated nanomaterials. Fe polycations are first embedded within the interlayer space and then reduced to Fe nanoparticles through thermal annealing in reducing atmosphere. Structural studies using electron microscopy and high energy X-ray show that the intercalated status of the polycations dictates the crystal structure, shape and size of final Fe compound particles. The magnetic property and caltalytic efficacy of hybrid particles have been verified using magnetometer measurement and Fenton reaction. Hybrized {\ensuremath{\alpha}}-Fe nanoparticles show high magnetization inherent to zero valent Fe, and high catalytic efficacy in decomposing Rhodamine B due to their zero valency and large surface areas. This simple synthesis process of stable iron nanoparticle without organic agents will be beneficial for large scale production of highly effective catalysts exploiting controlled phase and shape of embedded nanoparticles. {\copyright} 2012 Elsevier B.V..} } @unpublished{pittir16905, month = {December}, title = {Molecular mechanisms of phenotypic change in intact nociceptors}, author = {Deepak Jyotindra Soneji}, year = {2012}, keywords = {neurotrophic factor; neurotrophin; nociceptor; pain; siRNA; RNA interference; mirror image pain; dorsal root ganglion; sensory neuron; purinergic; P2Y1; TRPV1}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16905/}, abstract = {We have previously shown that regenerated cutaneous afferents exhibit sensitization. These changes were correlated with increased expression of neurotrophic factors in the affected skin, and receptors and ion channels in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG). Here we found that saphenous nerve injury resulted in similar alterations in gene expression in the skin innervated by the uninjured contralateral saphenous nerve. Several Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) and GDNF ligands were upregulated in the dorsal hindpaw hairy skin 7-21 days following contralateral saphenous nerve axotomy. This increase in expression was correlated with upregulation of several receptors and ion channels in the L2,3 DRGs, including GFR{\ensuremath{\alpha}}1, nucleotide receptors P2X3, P2Y1, and P2Y2, heat transducing channel TRPV1, and acid-sensing ion channels 1 (ASIC1) and 3 (ASIC3). Characterization of intact saphenous afferent fibers revealed that 4-5 weeks after contralateral injury, C-polymodal population had significantly reduced heat thresholds. There was also a significant increase in the proportion of mechanically insensitive-heat sensitive (CH) neurons. These findings provide evidence of peripheral mechanisms that may be involved in the development of mirror-image pain, a clinical phenomenon in which patients experience pain in the healthy region of the body contralateral to the injury site. The changes in the response properties of intact afferents at 4-5 weeks following contralateral injury were correlated with upregulation of P2Y1 and TRPV1 in the DRGs at 28d post-injury, and we investigated the role of these two targets in the functional plasticity observed by utilizing an in vivo small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated knockdown strategy to target the upregulation of P2Y1 and TRPV1 in the L2,3 DRGs at 28 days following contralateral injury. We found that blocking P2Y1 upregulation prevented the heat threshold reduction in C-polymodal afferents and conclude that P2Y1 plays a critical role in the heat sensitivity of these fibers. We then found that blocking the upregulation of TRPV1 blocked the recruitment of C-heat fibers. Taken together, our findings suggest that chronic exposure of intact cutaneous sensory neurons to increased endogenous levels of neurotrophic factors results in upregulation of target receptors and ion channels in the DRG and sensitization and phenotypic changes in intact sensory neurons.} } @unpublished{pittir11887, month = {June}, title = {Hypothesis settings and methods for gene expression meta-analysis}, author = {Chi Song}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Meta-analysis, Microarray, Genomics}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11887/}, abstract = {With the advent of high-throughput technologies, biomedical research has been dramatically reshaped in the past two decades. Technologies such as microarrays are broadly utilized to study the relationship between genomic alterations and disease outcomes. However, genomic analyses are criticized for their low reproducibility and generalizability. Large-scale meta-analysis of multiple studies is a timely and important issue with great public health significance, because robust biomarkers can be found for complex human diseases such as major depression disorder using meta-analysis techniques. Accurate marker detection will improve the disease diagnosis, treatment selection and prognosis prediction. In this dissertation, I first illustrate different hypothesis settings for two different types of biomarkers: biomarkers that are differentially expressed (DE) ?in all? studies and biomarkers that are DE ?in any? studies. Then I propose a robust setting HSr to detect genes differentially expressed (DE) ?in majority of? studies. For HSr, I propose an order statistic of p-values (rth order p-value, rOP) across combined studies as the test statistic. I also explore statistical properties such as power and asymptotic behavior of rOP. The method is applied to three examples to demonstrate its robustness and sensitivity. I develop two methods to guide the selection of r. The non-complementary property of HSr causes anti-conservative inferences. To overcome this, I propose HS?r as a complementary form of HSr. For HS?r, the major obstacle comes from the mixture nature of the null distribution. From a Bayesian point of view, I propose a semiparametric mixture model for the observed p-values in combined studies. A Bayes factor is calculated based on the posterior distribution to substitute traditional hypothesis testing for HS?r. I also develop an expectation-maximization (EM) algorithm to fit this model. Simulation results and real data analysis show improved specificity and sensitivity of this novel approach compared to traditional methods. Beyond meta-analysis of single genes, I also propose a framework to integrate multiple biological networks. A conservative subnetwork in a subset of datasets can be identified using our approach. In conclusion, I discuss various interesting questions in genomic meta-analysis in this dissertation. And I provide a series of statistical tools to address them.} } @article{pittir14150, volume = {8}, number = {3}, month = {March}, title = {Ensemble models of neutrophil trafficking in severe sepsis}, author = {SOK Song and J Hogg and ZY Peng and R Parker and JA Kellum and G Clermont}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS Computational Biology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14150/}, abstract = {A hallmark of severe sepsis is systemic inflammation which activates leukocytes and can result in their misdirection. This leads to both impaired migration to the locus of infection and increased infiltration into healthy tissues. In order to better understand the pathophysiologic mechanisms involved, we developed a coarse-grained phenomenological model of the acute inflammatory response in CLP (cecal ligation and puncture)-induced sepsis in rats. This model incorporates distinct neutrophil kinetic responses to the inflammatory stimulus and the dynamic interactions between components of a compartmentalized inflammatory response. Ensembles of model parameter sets consistent with experimental observations were statistically generated using a Markov-Chain Monte Carlo sampling. Prediction uncertainty in the model states was quantified over the resulting ensemble parameter sets. Forward simulation of the parameter ensembles successfully captured experimental features and predicted that systemically activated circulating neutrophils display impaired migration to the tissue and neutrophil sequestration in the lung, consequently contributing to tissue damage and mortality. Principal component and multiple regression analyses of the parameter ensembles estimated from survivor and non-survivor cohorts provide insight into pathologic mechanisms dictating outcome in sepsis. Furthermore, the model was extended to incorporate hypothetical mechanisms by which immune modulation using extracorporeal blood purification results in improved outcome in septic rats. Simulations identified a sub-population (about 18\% of the treated population) that benefited from blood purification. Survivors displayed enhanced neutrophil migration to tissue and reduced sequestration of lung neutrophils, contributing to improved outcome. The model ensemble presented herein provides a platform for generating and testing hypotheses in silico, as well as motivating further experimental studies to advance understanding of the complex biological response to severe infection, a problem of growing magnitude in humans. {\copyright} 2012 Song et al.} } @unpublished{pittir11639, month = {June}, title = {Life Cycle Assessment of Microalgal Biodiesel and Policy Implications to Minimize Unintended Consequences}, author = {Kullapa Soratana}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Microalgal Biodiesel, Life Cycle Assessment, Renewable Fuel Standard, Industrial Symbiosis}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11639/}, abstract = {The overall goals of this research are to identify forms of environmentally friendly microalgal biodiesel production and to address the broader policy implications of the Renewable Fuel Standard 2 (RFS2) to avoid unintended environmental consequences from the production and the utilization of biofuels. Life cycle assessment (LCA) of microalgal biodiesel was conducted using a process LCA model with Monte Carlo Analysis (MCA) for uncertainty analysis. First, the study focused on environmental impacts from the production of microalgal mass. Twenty scenarios of microalgal cultivation with different sources of CO2, nutrients and material used to construct photobioreactor (PBR) were evaluated. The results showed that the utilization of CO2 from flue gas only reduces global warming potential (GWP), while the utilization of nutrients from municipal wastewater mainly reduces eutrophication potential (EP), and the selection of material used to construct PBR is important. LCA of microalgal biodiesel was conducted to evaluate the major contributions to different environmental impacts and to identify the production condition with minimal impacts. Environmental impacts from four different microalgal biodiesel production scenarios to achieve the biomass-based diesel quantity required by the RFS2 were quantified. These four scenarios included lower and higher production efficiencies and different sources of resources, which are synthetic, and natural and waste. None of the four scenarios met the RFS?s greenhouse gas emissions requirement. The emissions can be minimized by improving the energy efficiency of harvesting process, since the GWP results are sensitive to energy consumption in harvesting process. Sensitivity of EP, ozone depletion potential and ecotoxicity potential to other parameters are also reported. GWP, EP and photochemical smog formation potential (PSP) results from the scenario with minimal impacts were compared to the impacts from other diesels, petroleum diesel, soybean diesel and canola diesel. The tradeoffs between different types of diesel suggested that future RFS should include other environmental criteria such as EP and PSP to minimize unintended consequences. Possible strategies to setting life-cycle EP and PSP criteria are discussed. Finally, a LCA on the co-production of microalgal biodiesel and bioethanol from microalgae and corn were conducted. CO2 for microalgal cultivation was provided from flue gas and/or fermentation processes. The recovery of CO2 from fermentation process decreases GWP, but slightly increases EP. The co-production of the microalgal biofuels can reduce GWP and EP by 54 and 52\%, respectively, compared to the production of microalgal biodiesel alone. Lipid and carbohydrate contents of microalgae should be 24-36\% and 44\%, respectively, in order to produce the maximum energy content in algal biofuels with the minimum GWP and EP impacts.} } @article{pittir16183, volume = {137}, number = {7}, month = {August}, title = {Coadsorption properties of CO {\ensuremath{<}}inf{\ensuremath{>}}2{\ensuremath{<}}/inf{\ensuremath{>}} and H {\ensuremath{<}}inf{\ensuremath{>}}2{\ensuremath{<}}/inf{\ensuremath{>}}O on TiO {\ensuremath{<}}inf{\ensuremath{>}}2{\ensuremath{<}}/inf{\ensuremath{>}} rutile (110): A dispersion-corrected DFT study}, author = {DC Sorescu and J Lee and WA Al-Saidi and KD Jordan}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of Chemical Physics}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16183/}, abstract = {Adsorption and reactions of CO 2 in the presence of H 2O and OH species on the TiO 2 rutile (110)-(1{$\times$}1) surface were investigated using dispersion-corrected density functional theory and scanning tunneling microscopy. The coadsorbed H 2O (OH) species slightly increase the CO 2 adsorption energies, primarily through formation of hydrogen bonds, and create new binding configurations that are not present on the anhydrous surface. Proton transfer reactions to CO 2 with formation of bicarbonate and carbonic acid species were investigated and found to have barriers in the range 6.1-12.8 kcalmol, with reactions involving participation of two or more water molecules or OH groups having lower barriers than reactions involving a single adsorbed water molecule or OH group. The reactions to form the most stable adsorbed formate and bicarbonate species are exothermic relative to the unreacted adsorbed CO 2 and H 2O (OH) species, with formation of the bicarbonate species being favored. These results are consistent with single crystal measurements which have identified formation of bicarbonate-type species following coadsorption of CO 2 and water on rutile (110). {\copyright} 2012 American Institute of Physics.} } @incollection{pittir19534, booktitle = {Lecture Notes in Computer Science}, title = {Adaptation ?in the Wild?: Ontology-Based Personalization of Open-Corpus Learning Material}, author = {Sergey Sosnovsky and I-Han Hsiao and Peter Brusilovsky}, publisher = {Springer Berlin Heidelberg}, year = {2012}, pages = {425 -- 431}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19534/} } @unpublished{pittir13632, month = {October}, title = {Investigating the effects of network structure and afferent feedback in models of rhythmic movement}, author = {Lucy Spardy}, year = {2012}, keywords = {dynamical systems, mathematical modeling, network structure, locomotion, rhythm generation, central pattern generators}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13632/}, abstract = {Animals can generate distinct rhythmic behaviors using a shared set of muscles and motoneurons, and in certain cases, the structure responsible for generating these movements is unknown. Distinct networks could be dedicated solely to particular behaviors, a singular network could control various movements through reorganization or under different inputs, or a hybrid of these two concepts could exist. In the first chapter of this thesis, we explore the compatibility of different network characteristics with experimental results regarding swimming and scratching rhythm generation in the turtle. We propose three distinct architectures that represent a range of connectivity between networks responsible for these rhythms, and test their performance against a set of experimental benchmarks regarding dual stimulation. The results of our modeling concur with experimental results, suggesting that networks that generate locomotion and scratching share important components. In the second and third chapters, we focus our attention on a previously published neuromechanical locomotor model. In this closed loop system, a central pattern generator (CPG) establishes a rhythm under sufficient supra-spinal drive and controls the activity of a pendular limb, which sends afferent signals back to the CPG, affecting its operation. Increasing the drive to the CPG increases the limb frequency through changes in the stance phase duration only, which is a key feature of normal overground locomotion. Using geometric singular perturbation theory, we analyze the mechanisms responsible for rhythm generation in the CPG, both in the presence and absence of feedback. We exploit our observations to construct a reduced model that is qualitatively similar to the original, but tractable for rigorous discussion. We prove the existence of a locomotor cycle in this reduced system using a novel version of the Melnikov function, adapted for discontinuous systems. We highlight how the limb dynamics shape overall model behavior, and indicate a crucial relationship between components that controls the model's asymmetric response to drive changes. Finally, we utilize our understanding of the model dynamics to explain its performance under various modifications, including recovery of oscillatory behavior after spinal cord injury and response to changes in load.} } @unpublished{pittir12359, month = {September}, title = {Analysis of Parallel SOC Architectural Characteristics for Accelerating Face Identification}, author = {Ralph Sprang}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Face Recognition, Systems on a Chip, Computer architecture, Biometric identification, Parallel processing, microprocessor}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12359/}, abstract = {Growing worldwide concerns about terrorism have increased interest in rapidly and accurately identifying individuals such as potential terrorists. The ability to quickly screen an individual against the more than one million entries on the Terrorist Watch List using face identification could significantly improve national security and other security screening applications. Top accuracy face identification algorithms are not real-time. The top face identification algorithms evaluated in National Institutes of Standards (NIST) testing achieve 95\% or greater identification accuracy but require several minutes to complete identification on a 1,196 member gallery set of 100 kilopixel resolution images. Recent testing shows that face identification algorithms are significantly slower for current NIST test sets with a 14,365 member gallery set of 4 megapixel images. Significant performance improvement is needed to match a one million member gallery set. The International Technology Roadmap for Semiconductors projects Systems on a Chip with more than one thousand processors will be available within ten years. However, it?s not clear how face identification algorithms can use these massively parallel SOCs to improve performance or which architectural characteristics are important for these algorithms. This research specifies key architectural characteristics for a massively parallel SOC to enable real-time face identification. A set of face identification benchmarks has been created to guide this research and includes small and large image data sets. This research contributes a method to explore the SOC design space to evaluate the final SOC performance. Specifically, this research is focused on the impact of processor instruction set architecture performance, the external memory bandwidth, the quantity of processing cores, the on-chip communication network, and the mapping of the face identification benchmarks. } } @article{pittir22294, volume = {8}, number = {2}, month = {April}, author = {Jeremy Robert Springman}, title = {The American Political Discourse in 2012}, journal = {Pitt Political Review}, pages = {18 -- 27}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22294/} } @unpublished{pittir11043, month = {July}, title = {Designer Quantum Materials}, author = {Vanita Srinivasa}, year = {2012}, keywords = {spin physics, flying spin qubits, effective exchange interactions, spin-orbit interaction, quantum dots, quantum wires}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11043/}, abstract = {Spin-based quantum information processing relies on the ability to identify and coherently manipulate quantum bits (qubits) existing in nature in the form of spin-1/2 particles such as electrons. The work described in this thesis is based on an alternative perspective: that these spin-1/2 objects, together with their interactions, can be regarded as building blocks of a variety of ?designer quantum materials? with features not present for isolated single spins. Theoretical proposals are presented for two classes of spin-based designer quantum materials relevant for quantum information transport and manipulation. The first class of materials involves spin-1/2 networks coupled by spatially-varying exchange interactions, in which moving domain walls can produce topologically-stable ?flying spin qubits,? and pairs of domain walls can be used to generate and transport Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen pairs of entangled qubits. The effective exchange between two domain-wall qubits can be tuned by adjusting the positions of the domain walls and can be ferromagnetic even when all spin-spin couplings are antiferromagnetic. The second class of designer quantum materials consists of electron spins in quantum wires with spatially-varying spin-orbit coupling. The presence of the spin-orbit interaction introduces pseudo-Zeeman couplings of the electron spins to effective magnetic fields and further enhances the building-block toolset: by periodically modulating this spin-orbit coupling in space, it is possible to create the spatial analogue of spin resonance, without the need for any real magnetic fields. The mapping of time-dependent operations onto a spatial axis suggests a new mode for quantum information processing in which gate operations are encoded into the band structure of the material. } } @unpublished{pittir16642, month = {November}, title = {Expanding the functional CD8+ T cell repertoire reduces HSV-1 reactivation from latency in sensory ganglia}, author = {Anthony J St. Leger}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Immunology, Virology, Ophthalmology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16642/}, abstract = {Following corneal infection, herpes simplex virus (HSV)-1 establishes latency in sensory neurons of the trigeminal ganglia (TG). In humans, spontaneous and recurrent reactivation of HSV-1 from latency has the potential to cause lesions on the gums (stomatitis), lips (cold sores, fever blisters), cornea (stromal keratitis), and brain (encephalitis). Latently infected neurons were once thought be largely ignored by the host immune system. Existing evidence shows that not only do HSV-specific CD8 T cells recognize latently infected neurons; they actively maintain viral latency using proinflammatory cytokines and lytic granules containing granzymes. The premise of this study further characterized the nature of the CD8 T cell response. Previous studies displayed that in the C57BL/6 mouse; CD8 T cells infiltrate the TG and become situated in direct apposition to infected neurons. It was known that 50 \% of the CD8 T cells recognized the immunodominant epitope on glycoprotein B (gB) while the specificities of the remaining CD8 T cells were undefined. In this study, we observed that the non-gB CD8 T cell repertoire was confined to 18 epitopes on 11 viral proteins. During acute infection, these cells, similar to gB498-505-specific CD8 T cells, readily produce cytokines and release lytic granules upon stimulation. Conversely, during latency, even though these cells remain in the TG, they lose the ability to produce cytokines and release lytic granules upon stimulation suggesting functional compromise, unlike gB498-505-specific CD8 T cells. We show that the immunosuppressive cytokine, IL-10, preferentially suppresses the non-gB498-505-specific CD8 T cell population. Upon administration of an antibody against the IL-10 receptor, we see a dramatic increase in functional non-gB498-505-specific CD8 T cells without apparent effect in the gB498-505-specific CD8 T cell population. This increase in functional CD8 T cells leads to a 50\% reduction in viral reactivation from latency suggesting the possibility of anti-IL10R as a treatment of recurrent reactivation of HSV-1 from latency.} } @unpublished{pittir13821, month = {August}, title = {Effects of Maltreatment on Physical Health in Female Adolescents and Young Women with a Substance Use Disorder}, author = {Valerie A. Stacy}, year = {2012}, keywords = {substance use disorder antisocial behavior child abuse child maltreatment physical health female}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13821/}, abstract = {Child abuse is a ubiquitous phenomenon with deleterious effects on physical health including poor general health, physical disability, medical diagnoses, and surgical procedures. Associated disruption to neurobiological systems may underlie additional health risk behaviors. Individuals abused as children are more likely to engage in antisocial behavior (ASB) and to carry a diagnosis of substance use disorder (SUD). Both ASB and SUD are associated with physical health problems. Although the prevalence of SUD and conduct disorder (CD) is higher in males, females with these diagnoses are among the most impaired. Consequences for females include affiliation with deviant males, intimate partner violence (IPV), risky sexual behavior, pregnancy, prostitution, and sexually transmitted diseases including HIV/AIDS. This secondary analysis uses data collected from 1990 to 2000 as part of a longitudinal study exploring biobehavioral development in drug-abusing female adolescents. Participants are 189 females with SUD, 14 to 18 years of age at baseline and 19 to 23 at follow-up. Two cross-sectional and one longitudinal hypothesis were tested: 1) At ages 14-18 child abuse--physical (CPA), sexual (CSA), and emotional (CEA)--is associated with physical health problems, mediated by ASB and number of SUDs; 2) at ages 19-23 adult violence--physical (including but not limited to IPV and reflecting victimization, perpetration, and mutual violence), sexual, and emotional abuse--is associated with physical health problems, mediated by ASB2 and number of SUDs2; and 3) all predictors and mediators from visits 1 and 2--CPA, CSA, CEA, adult physical, sexual, and emotional abuse; ASB1,2, number of SUDs1,2--and physical health problems1 are associated with physical health problems2. Contrary to expectations, at ages 14-18 only CSA was associated with physical health problems, mediated by ASB1. At ages 19-23 adult violence was not significantly associated with physical health problems2. ASB2 evidenced a direct relationship with physical health problems2, mediated by number of SUDs2. In the longitudinal analysis predictors significantly associated with physical health problems2 were physical health problems1 and number of SUDs2. These findings are discussed in light of current literature along with implications for treatment and intervention. } } @unpublished{pittir11857, month = {July}, title = {THE CHILD AND THE BOOK: IMAGINING CHILDHOOD READING IN ANGLO-AMERICA, 1899-1936}, author = {Margot Stafford}, year = {2012}, keywords = {"children's literature" "history of reading" "book metaphors" "reading instruction" "literacy" "cosmopolitanism"}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11857/}, abstract = {This study examines four metaphors for the child/book relationship that circulated in Anglo-America in the early decades of the twentieth-century. These metaphors ? Book Magic, Bookland, Book Friend, and Book House -- are found in texts designed for children and aim to describe and prescribe the value of childhood reading. They also serve as a means for understanding the aspirations and anxieties associated with childhood reading at this time. Studying these metaphors reveals complex understandings of the child reader as well as the cultural significances of the book as a material object and as an ideal in this period. They also reveal how a variety of forces including adult nostalgia, education, imperialism, sentimentalism, and aestheticism helped shape the child/book relationship and understandings of what could be gained from childhood reading. These metaphors span the literary cultures of the Britain, United States, and Canada, and are rooted in the works of children?s fantasy by E. Nesbit, a home library for children entitled Journeys through Bookland edited by Charles H. Sylvester, three series for girls by L.M. Montgomery, and the children?s book set My Book House edited by Olive Beaupre Miller. What links these metaphors is a cosmopolitan ideal: the belief that the child/book relationship can provide unity and tradition in a complex modern world and that is has the power to combat the perceived problems of modernity. This study argues that 1899-1936 marks a time when great ambition is associated with childhood reading: when it is viewed as having significant influence upon the child?s development, upon the adult, as well as upon the future of society. Many of these metaphors endure for child readers well beyond 1936, but their goals and far-reaching intentions are tempered.} } @article{pittir15886, volume = {7}, number = {8}, month = {August}, title = {Local variations in spatial synchrony of influenza epidemics}, author = {JH Stark and DAT Cummings and B Ermentrout and S Ostroff and R Sharma and S Stebbins and DS Burke and SR Wisniewski}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15886/}, abstract = {Background: Understanding the mechanism of influenza spread across multiple geographic scales is not complete. While the mechanism of dissemination across regions and states of the United States has been described, understanding the determinants of dissemination between counties has not been elucidated. The paucity of high resolution spatial-temporal influenza incidence data to evaluate disease structure is often not available. Methodology and Findings: We report on the underlying relationship between the spread of influenza and human movement between counties of one state. Significant synchrony in the timing of epidemics exists across the entire state and decay with distance (regional correlation = 62\%). Synchrony as a function of population size display evidence of hierarchical spread with more synchronized epidemics occurring among the most populated counties. A gravity model describing movement between two populations is a stronger predictor of influenza spread than adult movement to and from workplaces suggesting that non-routine and leisure travel drive local epidemics. Conclusions: These findings highlight the complex nature of influenza spread across multiple geographic scales. {\copyright} 2012 Stark et al.} } @article{pittir14162, volume = {7}, number = {3}, month = {March}, title = {Local spatial and temporal processes of influenza in pennsylvania, usa: 2003-2009}, author = {JH Stark and R Sharma and S Ostroff and DAT Cummings and B Ermentrout and S Stebbins and DS Burke and SR Wisniewski}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14162/}, abstract = {Background: Influenza is a contagious respiratory disease responsible for annual seasonal epidemics in temperate climates. An understanding of how influenza spreads geographically and temporally within regions could result in improved public health prevention programs. The purpose of this study was to summarize the spatial and temporal spread of influenza using data obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of Health's influenza surveillance system. Methodology and Findings: We evaluated the spatial and temporal patterns of laboratory-confirmed influenza cases in Pennsylvania, United States from six influenza seasons (2003-2009). Using a test of spatial autocorrelation, local clusters of elevated risk were identified in the South Central region of the state. Multivariable logistic regression indicated that lower monthly precipitation levels during the influenza season (OR = 0.52, 95\% CI: 0.28, 0.94), fewer residents over age 64 (OR = 0.27, 95\% CI: 0.10, 0.73) and fewer residents with more than a high school education (OR = 0.76, 95\% CI: 0.61, 0.95) were significantly associated with membership in this cluster. In addition, time series analysis revealed a temporal lag in the peak timing of the influenza B epidemic compared to the influenza A epidemic. Conclusions: These findings illustrate a distinct spatial cluster of cases in the South Central region of Pennsylvania. Further examination of the regional transmission dynamics within these clusters may be useful in planning public health influenza prevention programs. {\copyright} 2012 Stark et al.} } @article{pittir16836, volume = {18}, number = {10}, month = {October}, author = {TE Starzl}, title = {The long reach of liver transplantation}, journal = {Nature Medicine}, pages = {1489 -- 1492}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16836/} } @unpublished{pittir10846, month = {February}, title = {Sequence Engineering: Fine Tuning Polymer Properties at the Microstructural Level}, author = {Ryan Stayshich}, year = {2012}, keywords = {polymers, microstructural analysis, biodegradable, NMR, sequence}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10846/}, abstract = {Sequence, which Nature uses to spectacular advantage, has not been fully exploited in synthetic copolymers. To investigate the effect of sequence and stereosequence on the physical properties of copolymers a family of complex isotactic, syndiotactic and atactic repeating sequence poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) copolymers (RSC PLGAs) were prepared and their NMR and thermal behavior was studied. The unique suitability of polymers prepared from the bioassimilable lactic and glycolic acid monomers for biomedical applications makes them ideal candidates for this type of sequence engineering. Polymers with repeating units of LG, GLG, LLG, LLLG and GLLG (L = lactic, G = glycolic) with controlled and varied tacticities were synthesized by assembly of the corresponding sequence specific, stereopure dimeric, trimeric, tetrameric and hexameric segmer units. Specifically labeled deuterated lactic and glycolic acid segmers were likewise prepared and polymerized. Although the effects of sequence-influenced solution conformation were visible in all resonances of the 1H and 13C NMR spectra, the diastereotopic methylene resonances in the 1H NMR (CDCl3) for the glycolic units of the copolymers proved most sensitive. An octad level of resolution, which corresponds to an astounding 31-atom distance between the most separated stereocenters, was observed in some mixed sequence polymers. Importantly, the level of sensitivity of a particular NMR resonance to small differences in sequence was found to depend on the sequence itself. Thermal properties were also correlated with sequence. Functionalized RSC PLGAs were also prepared by the introduction of a benzyl-ether substituted monomer, (S)-3-benzyloxy-2-hydroxypropionic acid, derived from serine. A series of dimeric and trimeric based copolymers were assembled with controlled and varied tacticities as well as a sequenced heptamer and decamer copolymer. Deprotection of the hydroxyl groups was accomplished by catalytic hydrogenolysis to yield highly functionalized, hydrophobic polyesters. The NMR spectra for all of the copolymers were consistent with sequence and stereosequence retention. Progress towards the development and incorporation of another functional monomer derived from malic acid was also investigated. } } @unpublished{pittir10902, month = {February}, title = {Experimental Determination of the Topology of the HIV-1 gp41 C-Terminal Tail}, author = {Jonathan Steckbeck}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Membrane protein topology, HIV, protein biochemistry}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10902/}, abstract = {The C-terminal tail (CTT) of HIV gp41 has been traditionally viewed as a cytoplasmic domain. Genetic studies demonstrating functional interactions between the CTT and various intracellular partners have implicitly reinforced this view. However, antibody neutralization data and biochemical studies have suggested that the CTT is, or can be, externally localized under certain condition. Additionally, other studies have demonstrated that the CTT is dispensable for in vitro virus replication. After nearly three decades of HIV research, the function and structure of the CTT remain elusive. Our goals, then, were twofold: (i) to determine the overall conservation of the CTT in an attempt to provide an understanding of the functional and structural relevance of the CTT; and, (ii) to provide an experimental topological map of the CTT in an attempt to understand and align observed CTT topology(ies) with the functional necessity of a cytoplasmic CTT. We believe that we made significant contributions to the understanding of CTT topology and its relationship to current published functional studies. The initial studies demonstrated that the CTT sequence is conserved at a level that is intermediate between the highly variable gp120 region and the relatively conserved gp41 ectodomain. Additionally, physicochemical and structural properties of CTT sequences were found to be conserved in spite of the relatively high sequencevariability. These studies demonstrated for the first time that the CTT sequence, while highly variable, contains highly conserved structural and chemical properties that suggest a functional requirement for the CTT. Topology studies of the CTT indicated that the topology of the CTT can be distinct between the surface of Env-expressing cells and viral particles. Additionally, dynamic rearrangement of the CTT was observed as a function of antibody neutralization. These findings prompted a theoretical study of gp41 CTT predicted topology and the proposal of a topological model that we believe is consistent with all published studies regarding the localization of the CTT.} } @article{pittir29833, volume = {14}, number = {5}, month = {September}, title = {Zoledronic acid effectiveness against breast cancer metastases - a role for estrogen in the microenvironment?}, author = {RA Steinman and AM Brufsky and S Oesterreich}, year = {2012}, journal = {Breast Cancer Research}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29833/}, abstract = {Zoledronic acid (ZA) is an imidazole-containing bisphosphonate that has been extensively studied as an osteoclast inhibitor. ZA decreases bone turnover and has been effective in limiting osteolysis in metastatic cancers, including breast cancer. Recent clinical trials that demonstrated enhancement of disease-free survival by bisphosphonates have prompted interest in bisphosphonates as anti-cancer agents. ZA, for example, increased disease-free survival in postmenopausal and in premenopausal, hormone-suppressed breast cancer patients. Intriguingly, however, there was a lack of an anti-cancer effect of ZA in premenopausal women without ovarian suppression. These observations have prompted the conjecture that anti-cancer effects of ZA are limited to estrogen-poor environments. This review explores possible mechanisms compatible with differences in ZA activity in premenopausal women compared with postmenopausal (or hormone-suppressed) women. {\copyright} 2012 BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir10490, month = {February}, title = {A Tissue Engineering Platform to Investigate Effects of Finite Deformation on Extracellular Matrix Production and Mechanical Properties}, author = {John Stella}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Tissue engineering, extracellular matrix, finite deformation, mechanical stimuli}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10490/}, abstract = {It is estimated that more than 85,000 prosthetic heart valves are implanted annually in the US and {\texttt{\char126}}275,000 worldwide. Although current heart valve replacements have extended the lives of many patients, there is to date still no ideal alternative. Pediatric applications, in particular, pose unique problems because current valve replacement options are unable to accommodate somatic growth of the patient. Since its inception, the tissue engineering paradigm has garnered widespread attention as a means to recapitulate native tissue structure, composition, and mechanical function in a controlled and reproducible manner by combining engineering and life science principles. Before fully functioning tissue surrogates can be developed for clinical use, many complex biological, chemical and mechanical aspects of native tissues must be addressed. Furthermore, contemporary literature lacks a consolidated approach, instead, presenting a wide variety of scaffold materials, cell sources, and mechanical conditioning regimes in efforts to restore native tissue function. These challenges coupled with the paucity of structurally based, finite deformation framework constitutive models hinders our understanding of engineered tissues and their ability to perform as tissue surrogates. The focus of this dissertation is to elucidate the effects of large deformation mechanical stimuli on the development of engineered leaflet tissues. With our ability to incorporate viable cells distributed throughout the scaffold via concurrent electrospraying and electrospinning of poly (ester urethane) urea (PEUU) fiber scaffolds, we are provided a unique, controllable platform to: (1) characterize the mechanical behavior of electrospun PEUU and cellular response to global deformation, (2) assess our ability to create functional cell integrated surrogates via dynamic culture, and (3) develop a generalized finite deformation framework than can be used to gain an understanding of how the evolving extracellular matrix phase contributes to the construct gross mechanical behavior. We contend that much can be learned about the mechanical modulation of functional tissue from electrospun PEUU scaffolds since they capture aspects of native tissue microstructure and exhibit the ability to endure large deformations while recovering completely. It is our hope that these studies will guide the emergence of new materials and processing methods to develop functional pulmonary valve (PV) tissue surrogates which serve a predominantly biomechanical function.} } @article{pittir18079, volume = {49}, number = {5}, month = {October}, author = {AT Stephen and J Galak}, title = {The effects of traditional and social earned media on sales: A study of a microlending marketplace}, journal = {Journal of Marketing Research}, pages = {624 -- 639}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18079/}, abstract = {Marketers distinguish three types of media: paid (e.g., advertising), owned (e.g., company website), and earned (e.g., publicity). The effects of paid media on sales have been extensively covered in the marketing literature. The effects of earned media, however, have received limited attention. The authors examine how two types of earned media, traditional (e.g., publicity and press mentions) and social (e.g., blog and online community posts), affect sales and activity in each other. They analyze 14 months of daily sales and media activity data from a microlending marketplace website using a multivariate autoregressive time-series model. They find that (1) both traditional and social earned media affect sales; (2) the per-event sales impact of traditional earned media activity is larger than for social earned media; (3) because of the greater frequency of social earned media activity, after adjusting for event frequency, social earned media's sales elasticity is significantly greater than traditional earned media's; and (4) social earned media appears to play an important role in driving traditional earned media activity. {\copyright} 2012 American Marketing Association.} } @inproceedings{pittir18122, booktitle = {Direct Marketing Educational Foundation Research Summit}, title = {From Leaders to Followers: Empirical Analysis of Individual Responses to Social Networking Activities}, author = {Andrew T Stephen and Yakov Bart and Tuan Phan}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18122/} } @inproceedings{pittir18130, booktitle = {INFORMS Marketing Science Conference}, title = {Effectiveness of Mobile Advertising}, author = {Andrew T Stephen and Yakov Bart and Miklos Sarvary}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18130/} } @inproceedings{pittir18133, booktitle = {Direct Marketing Educational Foundation Research Summit}, title = {Effectiveness of Mobile Advertising}, author = {Andrew T Stephen and Yakov Bart and Miklos Sarvary}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18133/} } @inproceedings{pittir18124, booktitle = {Association for Consumer Research Conference}, title = {Does Paying for Online Product Reviews Pay Off? The Effects of Monetary Incentives on Consumers? Product Evaluations}, author = {Andrew T Stephen and Yakov Bart and Christilene du Plessis and Dilney Gon{\cc}alves}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18124/} } @inproceedings{pittir18131, booktitle = {American Marketing Association Winter Educators? Conference}, title = {The Effects of Traditional and Social Earned Media on Sales: An Application to a Microlending Marketplace}, author = {Andrew T Stephen and Jeff Galak}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18131/} } @inproceedings{pittir18132, booktitle = {Society for Consumer Psychology Conference}, title = {Are Close Friends the Enemy? Online Social Networks, Narcissism, and Self-Control}, author = {Andrew T Stephen and Keith Wilcox}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18132/} } @inproceedings{pittir18125, booktitle = {Association for Consumer Research Conference}, title = {Are Close Friends the Enemy? Online Social Networks, Self-Esteem, and Self-Control}, author = {Andrew T Stephen and Keith Wilcox}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18125/} } @inproceedings{pittir18127, booktitle = {American Psychological Association Conference}, title = {Are Close Friends the Enemy? Online Social Networks, Self-Esteem, and Self-Control}, author = {Andrew T Stephen and Keith Wilcox}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18127/} } @inproceedings{pittir18105, booktitle = {Direct Marketing Educational Foundation Research Summit}, title = {Ideation in Social Networks}, author = {Andrew T Stephen and Peter Zubcsek and Jacob Goldenberg}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18105/} } @inproceedings{pittir18126, booktitle = {Association for Consumer Research Conference}, title = {Ideation in Social Networks}, author = {Andrew T Stephen and Peter Zubcsek and Jacob Goldenberg}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18126/} } @inproceedings{pittir18128, booktitle = {INFORMS Marketing Science Conference}, title = {Ideation in Social Networks}, author = {Andrew T Stephen and Peter Zubcsek and Jacob Goldenberg}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18128/} } @unpublished{pittir10732, month = {January}, title = {Nonverbal behavior and political evaluation: an analysis of the speechmaking of Hugo Ch{\'a}vez}, author = {Joanna Sterling}, year = {2012}, keywords = {nonverbal behavior, emotion, appropriateness, heuristics}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10732/}, abstract = {The nonverbal behavior of politicians has drawn increasing attention from academics and laymen alike. Recent work (McHugo et al., 1985; Masters et al., 1986; Way \& Masters, 1996; Glaser \& Salovey, 1998; Stewart, Salter \& Mehu, 2009) suggests that a video broadcast of a simple glance at a watch or a roll of the eyes has potential to influence electoral outcomes. Can the nonverbal behavior of political leaders communicate information about the political context or the state of a country?s affairs as well? One hundred university students watched brief segments (45-90 s) of televised speeches by the president of Venezuela, Hugo Ch{\'a}vez. Three were selected from a time when Venezuela was experiencing difficulty and three from a time when affairs were going well. To control for the possible influence of linguistic content, participants were non-Spanish speaking and all audio was filtered to remove intelligible speech (750 Hz low-pass filter). Participants viewed the six video segments and rated the emotions displayed on five-point ordinal intensity scales following each video. Primary hypotheses were 1) Correlations between emotion ratings will be more consistent with ethological models of the social functions of nonverbal behavior than with social psychological models of valence and arousal (e.g., emotion circumplex (Larsen \& Diener, 1992). 2) Following Bucy and Newhagen?s (1999) findings on emotions as heuristics, emotion ratings will differ between political contexts. And 3) Self-report judgments of going well or going badly will be consistent will actual political context. Support was found for an ethological model of emotion perception, hypothesis 1. The relation between emotion ratings and political context, hypothesis 2 was confirmed. For hypothesis 3, self-reports failed to judge political context accurately; however, participants rated their confidence in making these judgments as relatively high. These findings suggest that emotion ratings reveal political context in ways that viewers are not consciously aware.} } @unpublished{pittir10672, month = {January}, title = {LIVING IN POVERTY: IMPLICATIONS FOR WORK ATTITUDES AND BEHAVIORS}, author = {Emily Stiehl}, year = {2012}, keywords = {poverty; context; self-efficacy; negative affect; extra-role behaviors; social resources}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10672/}, abstract = {Poverty is a powerful context that can affect individuals psychologically and socially, as well as financially. My work aims to introduce a discussion of poverty into the work domain, specifically examining how it can be defined at work, and how it affects work attitudes and behaviors. I present two papers that propose and test a theory of poverty's multifaceted effects on work outcomes (e.g., discretionary behaviors, job attachment, and career development) through a set of mediating mechanisms (e.g., self-efficacy, negative affectivity, and the diversity of social resources). } } @unpublished{pittir10868, month = {January}, title = {Dengue Virus Infection of B Lymphocytes In Vitro. }, author = {Frances Still}, year = {2012}, keywords = {dengue, B lymphocyte, DC-SIGN}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10868/}, abstract = {Dengue virus infection of certain subsets of the immune system, especially dendritic cells and macrophages, is well-established in the literature. On these cells, the virus can use DC-SIGN as a receptor. Infection of B lymphocytes is debated, and since B cells upregulate DC-SIGN upon activation, we hypothesize that this receptor may also be used for DENV infection of B cells. In this thesis, I show that DENV-2 infects primary aB and does not infect resting B cells, while DENV-1 infects neither resting nor aB. DENV-2 infection of aB is DC-SIGN dependent. Infection of Raji/DC-SIGN cells with DENV-2 is DC-SIGN dependent, while Raji/0 infection is observed. Infection is detected via flow cytometry using DENV-specific antibodies: 2H2 for DENV-2 infection, and 3H5.1 for DENV-1 infection. Statement of Public Health Impact: Dengue virus infection incidence has increased in recent decades, and poses a particular burden on children in South and Central America. It is known that cells of the immune system are directly involved with disease pathogenesis, and so further investigating infection of specific immune cells is crucial to understanding how best to prevent negative outcomes of DENV infection. B lymphocytes are a key part of the adaptive immune system, and may be infected by DENV. My thesis directly investigates this question, and also examines if the C-type lectin DC-SIGN is the receptor used by the virus for infection. } } @article{pittir29795, volume = {5}, number = {1}, month = {December}, title = {Application of a spatially-weighted Relief algorithm for ranking genetic predictors of disease}, author = {ME Stokes and S Visweswaran}, year = {2012}, journal = {BioData Mining}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29795/}, abstract = {Background: Identification of genetic variants that are associated with disease is an important goal in elucidating the genetic causes of diseases. The genetic patterns that are associated with common diseases are complex and may involve multiple interacting genetic variants. The Relief family of algorithms is a powerful tool for efficiently identifying genetic variants that are associated with disease, even if the variants have nonlinear interactions without significant main effects. Many variations of Relief have been developed over the past two decades and several of them have been applied to single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data. Results: We developed a new spatially weighted variation of Relief called Sigmoid Weighted ReliefF Star (SWRF*), and applied it to synthetic SNP data. When compared to ReliefF and SURF*, which are two algorithms that have been applied to SNP data for identifying interactions, SWRF* had significantly greater power. Furthermore, we developed a framework called the Modular Relief Framework (MoRF) that can be used to develop novel variations of the Relief algorithm, and we used MoRF to develop the SWRF* algorithm. Conclusions: MoRF allows easy development of new Relief algorithms by specifying different interchangeable functions for the component terms. Using MORF, we developed a new Relief algorithm called SWRF* that had greater ability to identify interacting genetic variants in synthetic data compared to existing Relief algorithms. {\copyright} 2012 Stokes and Visweswaran.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir16702, volume = {5}, month = {October}, title = {Health-related quality of life, adiposity, and sedentary behavior in patients with early schizophrenia: Preliminary study}, author = {M Strassnig and JS Brar and R Ganguli}, year = {2012}, pages = {389 -- 394}, journal = {Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity: Targets and Therapy}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16702/}, abstract = {Objective: To examine adiposity and sedentary behavior in relation to health-related quality of life (QoL) in patients with early schizophrenia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was used to assess adiposity by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scans, habitual physical activity and idle sitting time by the Short Form International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and health-related QoL by the RAND Medical Outcomes Study SF-36. QoL scores were compared with age-adjusted Canadian normative population data. Results: There were 36 participants with early schizophrenia, average age 25.1 ({$\pm$}3.6). Twenty-nine (72.5\%) were males. Mean illness duration was 30 ({$\pm$}18) months, and mean body mass index was 28.3 ({$\pm$}5). Females had higher body fat content than males (30.8{$\pm$}6.9 vs 24.7{$\pm$}10.6; t=-2.6, df=34; P=0.015). Total body fat (F=14; P=0.001), lean body mass (F=10.2; P=0.001), and sedentary behavior (F=5; P=0.013) significantly increased across body mass index categories. Total body fat was correlated with sedentary behavior (r=0.62; P=0.001), and total lean body mass was negatively correlated with sedentary behavior (r=0.39; P=0.03). Based on SF-36scores, participants had significantly lower physical functioning (P=0.0034), role physical (P=0.0003), general health (P,0.0001), vitality (P=0.03), and physical component scores (P=0.003) than Canadian population comparisons. Habitual sedentary behavior, more than activity or adiposity levels, was associated with health-related QoL in early schizophrenia. Conclusion: Health-related QoL is lower in early schizophrenia and is predominantly experienced in the physical domain. QoL in early schizophrenia relates to sedentary behavior more than to activity and adiposity levels. {\copyright} 2012 Strassnig etal, publisher and licensee Dove Medical Press Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir13189, month = {August}, title = {Fiscal Considerations of an International Partnership in Higher Education A Case Study: Indiana University of Pennsylvania and the Peoples Education Society, Bangalore,India}, author = {Cynthia Strittmatter}, year = {2012}, keywords = {International Partnerships, Higher Education Partnerships, Financing an International Partnership}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13189/}, abstract = {There are numerous challenges associated with entering into an international partnership in higher education, including the significant financial risks involved. Whereas study abroad and basic exchange relationships are fairly risk free, more comprehensive partnership models typically involve greater financial investment and, therefore, greater risk. As more institutions explore alternative strategies for achieving internationalization goals and seek to enter into and expand international agreements, reviewing the actual experience of an existing partnership will give guidance to decision makers. This case study involves the exploration of the fiscal considerations of an international partnership in higher education using a partnership that has been in effect since 2005-2006 between Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) and the Peoples Education Society (PES) of Bangalore, India, for delivery of an IUP MBA program on-site in Bangalore. Thirteen individuals were interviewed who have either been involved at some level with the partnership between IUP and PES from its inception and/or have an understanding of fiscal policies and procedures related to the program. Extensive feedback obtained from those interviewed sheds light on the wide range of fiscal considerations associated with establishing, operating, and maintaining an international partnership in higher education. The details provided regarding financial modeling, revenue and expenditures, tuition and fee policies, fiscal roles and responsibilities, compensation, indirect costs, financial risks, financial incentives, distribution of compensation opportunities, and external and internal policies and priorities, provide valuable insight to institutions considering the start or expansion of an international partnership initiative. } } @unpublished{pittir11649, month = {June}, title = {3-Dimensional Electron Microscopy of Biological Specimens}, author = {Korrinn M. Strunk}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Cryo-FIB, Cryo-TEM, tomography, E. Coli, HeLa}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11649/}, abstract = {Three-dimensional (3D) imaging is an important tool in electron microscopy, especially in biological specimens where the main focus is the structure of the cells. Many times important information is lost because the exact orientation of a specimen is unknown. We tested two different 3D imaging techniques, focused ion beam (FIB) slice and view, and cryo-FIB thinning of samples for use in cryo transmission electron tomography (cryo-TEM) and cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET). We began our research with room temperature FIB slice and view, with an intention to move onto slice and view at cryogenic temperatures. We found this technique to be difficult to control and the time required to produce results was simply too high. We moved on to investigating cryo-FIB milling as a tool for thinning cryo-ET specimens. Advances in cryo-ET have enabled high-resolution 3D imaging of complex assemblies and determination of cellular architectures in their close-to-native states. However, one major limitation, the accessible specimen thickness, has hindered its broader application in cellular biology. Recent efforts have been made to create thin, frozen-hydrated sections using cryo-ultramicrotomy, but with many mechanical artifacts and low yields. Here, we report a method that applies a focused ion beam (FIB) at cryogenic temperature (cryo-FIB) to reduce the thickness of frozen-hydrated cells, including mammalian cells, to a degree suitable for cryo-ET.} } @article{pittir14303, volume = {25}, number = {4}, month = {November}, author = {MA Styn and J Wang and SD Acharya and K Yang and ER Chasens and J Choo and L Ye and LE Burke}, title = {Health-related quality of life among participants in the SMART weight loss trial}, journal = {Applied Nursing Research}, pages = {276 -- 279}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14303/}, abstract = {Obesity has been associated with a decreased health-related quality of life (HRQoL); however, the association between weight change and HRQoL is unclear. This secondary analysis of the SMART (Self Monitoring And Recording using Technology) trial, a clinical trial of behavioral weight loss treatment, provides evidence that quality of life improves with weight loss. {\copyright} 2012 Elsevier Inc.} } @article{pittir29819, volume = {7}, number = {S1}, month = {October}, author = {Brian Suffoletto}, title = {Mobile phone text-message?based drinking brief interventions for young adults discharged from the emergency department}, publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC}, journal = {Addiction Science \& Clinical Practice}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29819/} } @unpublished{pittir12165, month = {June}, title = {DISTANCE, DEVIATION FROM A TEMPLATE, AND PERFORMANCE: INVESTIGATING A MODERATED MEDIATION MODEL}, author = {Jeremy W. Suiter}, year = {2012}, keywords = {contextual fit knowledge transfer replication distance deviation from a template moderated mediation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12165/}, abstract = {While much prior research recommends an approach to knowledge transfer aimed at maximizing organizational fit with the environment, a growing stream of literature recognizes that tacit and ambiguous knowledge makes strict replication the preferred knowledge transfer method. Several studies have empirically shown that deviation from standardized routines significantly affects performance; some of these studies show positive effects and others negative. Since the fit between an organization and its environment deteriorates as it enters locations that are different from its home environment, a multiunit organization attempting to establish units overseas experiences dual pressures{--}both to fit local contexts (deviate) and to maintain internal consistency (not deviate). I construct a model that accounts for both pressures by incorporating distance and deviation from a template, and examining their performance effects. I explore how deviation mediates the distance-performance relationship as well as the direct and moderating influence of distance on the deviation-performance relationship in order to better understand the interplay of these forces and to help explain the conflicting pattern of results in prior research. Various conceptualizations of distance are utilized, including administrative, cultural, demographic, economic, financial, geographic, global connectedness, knowledge, and political distance. The effects are tested with an unbalanced panel data set of monthly deviation and performance indicators for international units of a large U.S.-based non-food franchisor in 26 countries over a period of approximately ten years.} } @unpublished{pittir10568, month = {January}, title = {Anticholinergic Drug and White Matter Hyperintensity Effects on Balance and Gait in Older Adults}, author = {Alison L Sukits}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Balance Gait Falls Anticholinergic Medication White Matter Hyperintensity}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10568/}, abstract = {Falls are a major cause of injury in older adults, leading to decreased quality of life and high economic cost. While the cause of falls is multi-dimensional, they have been linked to several characteristics seen in older adults. Specifically, this research focused on relating the use of medications and cerebrovascular changes with normal aging to changes in balance and gait, thus possibly increasing fall risk. The medications of interest were those with anticholinergic properties whose drug mechanism was to block the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Medication use was measured using blood serum anticholinergic activity levels (SAA) of active receptor inhibitors. The cerebrovascular changes included those associated with white matter hyperintensities (WMH) in five regions of interest in the deep cerebral white matter detected by magnetic resonance imaging. The exact mechanism of action to negatively impact balance and gait is not well-known. Balance was assessed using measures of sway or center of pressure (COP) while gait was assessed using spatiotemporal variability parameters. Forty-eight participants, aged 65 to 80, were recruited. Balance and gait protocols were performed under single and dual-task digit recall conditions. Overall, performing tasks while standing or walking caused increased sway and temporal variability, respectively. When standing with eyes closed and not performing a task, participants? sway increased with increasing WMH. However, no relationship was found with SAA. During gait, a positive relationship was found between WMH and cadence, stance time, and step time variability, but only within two WMH regions. No relationships with SAA were identified. The lack of more correlations between the variables of interest could be attributed to the lack of variability in WMH and SAA along with the overall excellent health of the participants. These results indicate the potential for negative effects on balance and gait with healthy neural aging and anticholinergic drug use. Further investigations must be conducted to better understand the mechanism of action causing the negative impact on balance and gait. Once understood, better care can be taken to monitor medication use and provide therapeutic training to people at a higher risk for falls as related to medication burden and increased WMH with age.} } @unpublished{pittir12017, month = {June}, title = {Examining The Attitudes and Opinions of Bipolar Disorder Pre- And Post-educational Session in Individuals Affected with Bipolar Disorder and First-degree Relatives of Individuals Affected with Bipolar Disorder}, author = {Rebecca Sullenberger}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Bipolar disorder Health Belief Model First-degree relatives}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12017/}, abstract = {Bipolar disorder (BPD) is a serious psychiatric condition that causes shifts in mood, energy levels, and the ability to complete daily activities. An estimated 1\% of the United States? population is affected with BPD. In affected individuals, BPD can cause relationship problems, poor performance at work/school, substance abuse, and suicide. For these reasons, BPD is associated with a significant amount of morbidity and is a substantial public health concern. Studies indicate that BPD is a multifactorial condition and although several candidate genes have been suggested, no single gene has been successfully identified. Recurrence risk for unaffected individuals that have one first-degree relative with BPD is 5-30\%. Research to identify the predisposing genes of BPD is ongoing. It is likely genetic counseling and testing for BPD will become routine in the future. This study is designed to analyze the knowledge, attitudes, and opinions regarding BPD and genetic testing for BPD. In order to capture those most likely to seek genetic testing and counseling for BPD, the target populations were individuals affected with BPD and first-degree relatives of individuals affected with BPD. The public health significance is that understanding the attitudes and opinions of these populations may help reduce the burden of the disease. Participants were consented and took anonymous surveys over the telephone. They answered multiple choice knowledge questions and rated their level of agreement to statements, based on the Health Belief Model (HBM), about bipolar disorder and genetic testing. By rating their level of agreement on a 5-point Likert scale, their health beliefs in the categories of perceived severity, susceptibility, benefits, and barriers were analyzed. Participants then participated in an educational session and took an identical survey. Results indicate that the knowledge about BPD significantly increased following the educational session. The attitudes and opinions of primary affected individuals and first-degree relatives did not differ significantly pre-educational session in the HBM categories, however did differ significantly post-educational session in perceived severity. Neither population differed significantly among themselves pre- and post-educational session. When individual statements were analyzed, affected individuals were more moderate in concerns of having a child with BPD } } @article{pittir18892, volume = {380}, number = {9839}, month = {January}, author = {PS Sullivan and A Carballo-Di{\'e}guez and T Coates and SM Goodreau and I McGowan and EJ Sanders and A Smith and P Goswami and J Sanchez}, title = {Successes and challenges of HIV prevention in men who have sex with men}, journal = {The Lancet}, pages = {388 -- 399}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18892/}, abstract = {Men who have sex with men (MSM) have been substantially affected by HIV epidemics worldwide. Epidemics in MSM are re-emerging in many high-income countries and gaining greater recognition in many low-income and middle-income countries. Better HIV prevention strategies are urgently needed. Our review of HIV prevention strategies for MSM identified several important themes. At the beginning of the epidemic, stand-alone behavioural interventions mostly aimed to reduce unprotected anal intercourse, which, although somewhat efficacious, did not reduce HIV transmission. Biomedical prevention strategies reduce the incidence of HIV infection. Delivery of barrier and biomedical interventions with coordinated behavioural and structural strategies could optimise the effectiveness of prevention. Modelling suggests that, with sufficient coverage, available interventions are sufficient to avert at least a quarter of new HIV infections in MSM in diverse countries. Scale-up of HIV prevention programmes for MSM is difficult because of homophobia and bias, suboptimum access to HIV testing and care, and financial constraints.} } @article{pittir15888, volume = {7}, number = {8}, month = {August}, title = {The multi-targeted kinase inhibitor sunitinib induces apoptosis in colon cancer cells via PUMA}, author = {J Sun and Q Sun and MF Brown and C Dudgeon and J Chandler and X Xu and Y Shu and L Zhang and J Yu}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15888/}, abstract = {Constitutive activation of pro-survival kinases has become a promising target of small molecules with an increasing interest in developing multi-targeted agents. The mechanisms underlying the responsiveness to most agents targeting cancer specific survival pathways are still poorly understood but critical for their clinical application. In this study, we found that sunitinib, a small molecule inhibitor of multiple tyrosine kinases including VEGFRs and PDGFRs induces apoptosis and inhibits cell growth in colon cancer cells in cell culture and xenograft models via the BH3-only protein PUMA. Sunitinib treatment induced PUMA transcription via the AKT/FoxO3a axis. PUMA, BH3 mimetics, or 5-Flurourical sensitized colon cancer cells to sunitinib-induced apoptosis. Furthermore, PUMA was induced by sunitinib treatment in xenograft tumors, and deficiency in PUMA significantly suppressed the anti-tumor effects of sunitinib. Our study suggests that PUMA-mediated apoptosis is important for the therapeutic responses to sunitinib, and activation of the mitochondrial pathway by BH3 mimetics or PUMA manipulation may be useful for improving the antitumor activity of sunitinib. Modulation of PUMA and selective Bcl-2 family members might be potential biomarkers for predicting sunitinib responses. {\copyright} 2012 Sun et al.} } @article{pittir29814, volume = {5}, month = {October}, title = {Angiogenesis in metastatic colorectal cancer and the benefits of targeted therapy}, author = {W Sun}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of Hematology and Oncology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29814/}, abstract = {The diverse pathways and molecules involved in angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, have been targeted for the treatment of colorectal and other cancers. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A binding to VEGF receptor (VEGFR)-2 is believed to be the key signaling pathway mediating angiogenesis. Other VEGF pathways involved in angiogenesis include VEGF-A, VEGF-B, and placental growth factor binding to VEGFR-1, and VEGF-C and VEGF-D binding to VEGFR-2 and VEGFR-3. VEGF signaling also intersects with other pathways, including angiopoietin/Tie, Notch, hypoxia-inducible factor, and integrin pathways. The roles of these pathways in tumor angiogenesis and in various human cancers will be explored in this article. In addition, preclinical and clinical data on bevacizumab, aflibercept (known as ziv-aflibercept in the US), and investigational antiangiogenic agents in development for the treatment of colorectal and other cancers will be reviewed. {\copyright} 2012 Sun; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir19640, volume = {100}, number = {9}, month = {September}, author = {Hari Sundaram and Lexing Xie and Munmun De Choudhury and Yu-Ru Lin and Apostol Natsev}, title = {Multimedia Semantics: Interactions Between Content and Community}, publisher = {Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)}, year = {2012}, journal = {Proceedings of the IEEE}, pages = {2737 -- 2758}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19640/} } @unpublished{pittir10671, month = {February}, title = {The Ukrainian Voter: Electoral Behavior in a New Democracy}, author = {Lena Surzhko-Harned}, year = {2012}, keywords = {political behavior, electoral politics, new democracies, post-Soviet, Ukraine, correct vote}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10671/}, abstract = {The ?normalization? of politics in new democracies is an important concern of political science research. Normalization could refer to democratic consolidation when democracy ?becomes the only game in town? (Linz and Stepan 1996). Some of the factors contributing to normalization are stable institutions, the rule of law, and transparency in power transfer, among others. Yet, it can be argued that the democratic process is normalized when programmatic parties compete for political office by wooing a sophisticated and knowledgeable electorate (Kitschelt 1992, 1995, 2000). This inquiry is a story of such normalization in the case of a new post-communist democracy ? Ukraine. In the literature the Ukrainian public is depicted as highly apolitical, unsophisticated, and divided along the ethno-cultural regional cleavage which contributes to the problems of normalization of electoral competition. Moreover, there is a general sense that voters are ?the least likely segment of Ukrainian polity" to influence political processes (Copsey 2005). Yet, the events of the Orange Revolutions showed otherwise. It does not seem reasonable any longer to ignore the Ukrainian voter and her role in the development of a democratic Ukraine. Recently Timothy J. Colton (2011) lamented the lack of the individual level analysis of Ukrainian electorate. This study is a decisive attempt to remedy this oversight. Using the survey data from International Foundation for Electoral Studies (IFES) from 1994, 1997 -2008 I develop and analyze a model of the sophisticated voter in the new democracy. I argue that over time, as voters have more experience with democratic processes, they learn how to properly link their own preferences with appropriate parties and candidates, relying on numerous factors including, but not limited to, the ethno-cultural and socioeconomic attributes, such factors as evaluation of the political leaders and issues are also instrumental in voter decision making. The results of this study have important implications for the study of Ukrainian politics and a broader literature on voting behavior. The curious case of the Ukrainian voter suggests a need to reexamine the theoretical and conceptual frameworks of democratic consolidation hypotheses as well as the developmental modes of electoral behavior.} } @article{pittir29938, volume = {12}, number = {1}, month = {January}, author = {Y Sverchkov and X Jiang and GF Cooper}, title = {Spatial cluster detection using dynamic programming.}, journal = {BMC medical informatics and decision making}, pages = {22 -- ?}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29938/}, abstract = {The task of spatial cluster detection involves finding spatial regions where some property deviates from the norm or the expected value. In a probabilistic setting this task can be expressed as finding a region where some event is significantly more likely than usual. Spatial cluster detection is of interest in fields such as biosurveillance, mining of astronomical data, military surveillance, and analysis of fMRI images. In almost all such applications we are interested both in the question of whether a cluster exists in the data, and if it exists, we are interested in finding the most accurate characterization of the cluster. We present a general dynamic programming algorithm for grid-based spatial cluster detection. The algorithm can be used for both Bayesian maximum a-posteriori (MAP) estimation of the most likely spatial distribution of clusters and Bayesian model averaging over a large space of spatial cluster distributions to compute the posterior probability of an unusual spatial clustering. The algorithm is explained and evaluated in the context of a biosurveillance application, specifically the detection and identification of Influenza outbreaks based on emergency department visits. A relatively simple underlying model is constructed for the purpose of evaluating the algorithm, and the algorithm is evaluated using the model and semi-synthetic test data. When compared to baseline methods, tests indicate that the new algorithm can improve MAP estimates under certain conditions: the greedy algorithm we compared our method to was found to be more sensitive to smaller outbreaks, while as the size of the outbreaks increases, in terms of area affected and proportion of individuals affected, our method overtakes the greedy algorithm in spatial precision and recall. The new algorithm performs on-par with baseline methods in the task of Bayesian model averaging. We conclude that the dynamic programming algorithm performs on-par with other available methods for spatial cluster detection and point to its low computational cost and extendability as advantages in favor of further research and use of the algorithm.} } @unpublished{pittir11657, month = {April}, title = {DNA glycosylases as modulators of chemotherapeutic response}, author = {David Svilar}, year = {2012}, keywords = {DNA Repair, Temozolomide, Alkylation Response, Chemotherapy Resistance, Molecular Beacon}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11657/}, abstract = {Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common and aggressive primary brain tumor. Median survival is less than two years due to several factors, including challenges in surgical removal and chemotherapy resistance, underlining the need for more effective therapeutic options. To identify genes that contribute to chemotherapy resistance, we conducted a synthetic lethal screen in a chemotherapy-resistant GBM derived cell line (T98G) with the clinical alkylator temozolomide (TMZ) and an siRNA library tailored towards ?druggable? targets. This screen for TMZ-sensitizing genes indicated that a subset of genes that were over-expressed in GBM cells increased the cell?s sensitivity to TMZ when knocked down. An ubiquitin ligase, UBE3B, and a DNA glycosylase, UNG, were among the TMZ-sensitizing genes identified using the siRNA library. We demonstrate that UBE3B and UNG are sensitizing genes in the screen validation studies using unique siRNA and shRNA sequences. Although UNG is one of four human DNA glycosylases that remove uracil lesions, UNG was the only uracil removing glycosylase to sensitize GBM cells in the validation studies. Notably, analysis of archived transcription datasets revealed that over-expression of UNG was correlated with poor outcomes in glioma patients. In order to uncover functional groupings of TMZ-sensitizing proteins, we conducted in situ pathway analysis of gene candidates for synthetic lethal functions from our screen. This analysis discovered statistically significant enrichment of ontogeny clusters related to base excision repair (BER), response to DNA damage, cellular proliferation and protein modification. Interestingly, this pathway topography overlapped with TMZ-sensitizing genes identified from similar experiments in yeast and bacteria. In order to facilitate rapid in vitro identification of lesion-specific repair activity in cancer cells, we developed a novel fluorescent assay that extends the state of the art. The molecular beacon assay measures real-time DNA repair rates of specific DNA lesions by defined DNA repair proteins. These studies reveal that GBM up-regulates several TMZ-sensitizing genes that correlate with poor patient survival and inhibiting these genes may increase TMZ cytotoxicity in a tumor specific manner. These TMZ-sensitizing genes are not only potential targets for adjuvant therapy, but also represent potential biomarkers to predict TMZ response.} } @unpublished{pittir11703, month = {September}, title = {Defining Dendritic Cells and Macrophages in Lymph Nodes and Gut Mucosa During Simian Immunodeficiency Virus Infection}, author = {Zachary Duane Jameson Swan}, year = {2012}, keywords = {HIV; SIV; dendritic cells; macrophages; lymph nodes; gut}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11703/}, abstract = {The gut mucosa is an important site of virus replication and immune activation in individuals infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), but the impact of infection on innate immune cells within the gut and gut-draining mesenteric lymph nodes (LN) is ill-defined. To address this gap in knowledge, we studied rhesus macaques infected with pathogenic simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV), which is a highly relevant model of HIV infection and AIDS. We analyzed macrophage, myeloid dendritic cell (mDC), and plasmacytoid dendritic cell (pDC) subsets in LN and terminal ileum samples taken from naive rhesus macaques and macaques infected with SIVmac251 with and without antiretroviral therapy (ART) to reduce virus load. CD163-CD68+ macrophages did not fluctuate with disease, while putative anti-inflammatory CD163+CD68+ macrophages were significantly increased in mesenteric and peripheral LN, which may be suggestive of the host?s attempt to repress inflammation. CD11c+ mDC and CD123+ pDC in peripheral LN exhibited a modest decrease during acute SIV infection and AIDS. Lastly, we determined the percentage of CD103+ DC, which have been shown to induce regulatory T cell (Treg) differentiation in mesenteric LN and imprint Treg with gut-homing markers. CD103 was expressed on 31\% of mDC in mesenteric LN of healthy macaques and a similar proportion of mDC in SIV-infected animals receiving therapy, whereas CD103+ mDC were depleted in untreated SIV infection, suggesting a role for CD103+ mDC loss in altering Treg homeostasis. Our results highlight the complexity of the innate immune response to SIV in mucosal tissues and point to contributions of macrophages and DC in virus control and AIDS pathogenesis. These findings could lead to discoveries of novel innate immune therapeutic targets and therefore have significant public health value. } } @unpublished{pittir6195, month = {January}, title = {The effects of cheating on deception detection during a social dilemma}, author = {Kristina Swanenburg}, year = {2012}, keywords = {deception detection, cheating}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/6195/}, abstract = {Research by social psychologists and others consistently finds that people are poor at detecting attempted deception by others. However, Tooby and Cosmides (cognitive psychologists who favor evolutionary analyses of behavior) have argued and shown that humans have evolved a special ?cognitive module? for detecting cheaters. Their research suggests that people are good at detecting cheating by group members. These two literatures seem to be at odds with one another. The hypothesis of this research was that when participants are told a lie by a fellow group member whose attempted deception involves cheating on a task that affects their outcomes, they will be good at detecting deception. In this experiment, participants played blackjack in groups using a social dilemma paradigm. Participants? outcomes were either interdependent or independent with a confederate?s outcomes. It was predicted that participants whose outcomes were interdependent with the confederate would be better at detecting deception by the confederate than those participants whose outcomes were independent from the confederate?s outcomes. Results indicate that when judging other participants? lies interdependent players were more successful at deception detection than independent players but were not more sensitive to the lies. This effect may be driven by the truth bias, people assume that their interaction partners are truthful which would explain why sensitivity measures (which remove response biases) did not show the hypothesized effect. Independent players were not more successful or sensitive when judging the confederate?s lies. The failure to find the hypothesized effect may be due to methodological factors. Both participants heard may have had their cheating detection modules activated when hearing the instructions for the experiment which implied that cheating could occur. Overall success rates support this idea because they were significantly higher than success rates reached by most deception detection research (50\%) which may be indicative that both participants cheating detection modules were active. Results also indicate that as the number of lies told increases overall success decreases but success at detecting lies and sensitivity increase. Thus the more lies that are told the better people are at catching them.} } @unpublished{pittir11817, month = {May}, title = {The neural correlates of emotional numbing and nicotine use in veterans during wake and REM: an [18F]-FDG PET imaging study}, author = {Marissa H Swanson}, year = {2012}, keywords = {neuroimaging, cerebral glucose metabolic rate, military, smoking, positron emission tomography, rapid eye movement}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11817/}, abstract = {Confirmatory factor analyses and theories of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) support the clinical and scientific relevance of a distinct emotional numbing construct in PTSD. Increased emotional numbing has been linked with increased nicotine use. Deficits in reward system functioning may be related to symptoms of emotional numbing and nicotine use. Previous research has found altered neurotransmitter function and brain activation in response to reward in reward system brain structures in PTSD. In normal REM sleep, these brain structures have increased activity and are related to sleep-wake mechanisms, which may be dysregulated in PTSD. This study used polysomnography (PSG) and [18F]-FDG PET imaging to conduct region of interest analyses (ROIs) examining possible resting state brain activity deficits in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom veterans in the striatum and amygdala. It was hypothesized that 1) increased emotional numbing would be associated with decreased activity during wakefulness and REM; 2) increased emotional numbing would be associated with increased nicotine use; and 3) increased nicotine use would be associated with decreased activity during wakefulness and REM. Results indicate that increased emotional numbing corresponds with decreased activity during wakefulness in the striatum and amygdala, but not after adjusting for all non-emotional numbing symptoms of PTSD. This pattern was reversed during REM, with increased emotional numbing corresponding with increased activity in the striatum, which survived adjusting for non-emotional numbing symptoms of PTSD. Emotional numbing was not correlated with nicotine use, possibly because heavy smokers were underrepresented in the sample. Increased nicotine use was associated with decreased activity during wakefulness in the striatum, but was not related to activity during REM. Results support the involvement of reward structures in nicotine use, emotional numbing, and other symptoms of PTSD. Dysregulation in the reward system may exaggerate patterns of activity seen in healthy adults, with less activity in reward structures during quiet wakefulness and increased activity during REM sleep.} } @unpublished{pittir10772, month = {January}, title = {Enlightenment tragedy}, author = {Liam Sweeney}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Culture Industry, Reification, Troilus and Cressida, Flannery O'Connor, Identity, Ideology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10772/}, abstract = {This thesis is an investigation of the tragic form in relation to Horkheimer and Adorno?s Dialectic of Enlightenment. Horkheimer and Adorno claim that the culture industry has appropriated the tragic form for its own purposes and rendered it a part of the process of the conversion of the individual to exploitable circuits of value. Enlightenment Tragedy is a type of tragedy that avoids their critique, and in fact offers the reader tools to resist the culture industry in a de-reifying moment. This thesis investigates Shakespeare?s Troilus and Cressida, and Flannery O?Connor?s ?Good Country People? and ?Revelation? and locates the characteristics that mark them as instances of this tragedy. } } @inproceedings{pittir19025, month = {July}, author = {Katia Sycara and Michael Lewis}, booktitle = {16th WSEAS International Conference on Computers}, title = {Human control strategies for multi-robot teams}, publisher = {World Scientific and Engineering Academy and Society}, journal = {Proceedings of the 16th WSEAS International Conference on Computers}, pages = {149 -- 154}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19025/}, abstract = {Expanding human span of control over teams of robots presents an obstacle to the wider deployment of robots for practical tasks in a variety of areas. One difficulty is that many different types of human interactions may be necessary to maintain and control a robot team. We have developed a taxonomy of human-robot tasks based on complexity of control that helps explicate the forms of control likely to be needed and the demands they pose to human operators. In this paper we use research from two of these areas to illustrate our taxonomy and its utility in characterizing and improving human-robot interaction.} } @article{pittir17447, volume = {21}, number = {2}, month = {June}, author = {J Sytsma and E Machery}, title = {On the relevance of folk intuitions: A commentary on Talbot}, journal = {Consciousness and Cognition}, pages = {654 -- 660}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17447/}, abstract = {In previous work, we presented evidence suggesting that ordinary people do not conceive of subjective experiences as having phenomenal qualities. We then argued that these findings undermine a common justification given for the reality of the hard problem of consciousness. In a thought-provoking article, Talbot has challenged our argument. In this article, we respond to his criticism. {\copyright} 2011 Elsevier Inc.} } @unpublished{pittir12447, month = {October}, title = {YOUTH AND POLITICS IN COMMUNIST ROMANIA (1980-1989)}, author = {Veronica Szabo}, year = {2012}, keywords = {communism, Eastern Europe, political socialization, Romania, everyday life, political sociology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12447/}, abstract = {My research in Romania examines the presence of politics in the everyday lives of youth in the 1980s. While most research on youth?s political opinions focuses on First World democracies, my work examines how political education took place in the tightly controlled, non-democratic context of communist Romania. I tried to understand how Romanian youth experienced politics in their everyday lives in the 1980s, under a ?totalitarian-sultanistic? system. I try to answer this question by looking at three levels: the lived and remembered experience of students and their teachers, the ?indoctrination? materials such textbooks and policy documents they were exposed to, and the social research from the 1980s aimed at assessing the effectiveness of their ?indoctrination?. My findings show that ideological indoctrination of youth in 1980s Romania existed more as intent (Party policies) than as outcome, thus rendering the ?totalitarian? frame as outdated for the analysis of everyday life. The education system and youth organizations that were supposed to do the ?indoctrination work? did it an inept and ambivalent fashion, and whatever they accomplished in schools was further deconstructed in autonomous spaces of expression within family and friendship circles. Furthermore, research commissioned by youth organizations and collected in the 1980s clearly shows evidence of their failing and awareness of it among members of the regime. } } @inproceedings{pittir13526, month = {January}, title = {Policy management as a service: An approach to manage policy heterogeneity in cloud computing environment}, author = {H Takabi and JBD Joshi}, year = {2012}, pages = {5500 -- 5508}, journal = {Proceedings of the Annual Hawaii International Conference on System Sciences}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13526/}, abstract = {Security issues are delaying fast adoption of cloud computing and security mechanisms to ensure its secure adoption has become a crucial immediate need. On the other hand, cloud computing can help enable security controls to be delivered in new ways by service providers. To this end, we need frameworks for efficient delivery of cloud-based security services and for provisioning desirable solutions to customers based on their requirements. In this paper, we focus on policy management systems in cloud environments. Currently, users must use diverse access control solutions available for each cloud service provider to secure data. Access control policies may be composed in incompatible ways because of diverse policy languages that are maintained separately at every cloud provider. Heterogeneity and distribution of these policies pose problems in managing access policy rules for a cloud environment. In this paper, we introduce Policy Management as a Service (PMaaS), a cloud based policy management framework that is designed to give users a unified control point for managing access policies to control access to his resources no matter where they are stored. We present the framework and describe its components and protocols needed for various components to communicate. {\copyright} 2012 IEEE.} } @article{pittir13452, volume = {1}, number = {2/3}, author = {Hassan Takabi and James BD Joshi}, title = {Semantic-based policy management for cloud computing environments}, publisher = {Inderscience Publishers}, journal = {International Journal of Cloud Computing}, pages = {119 -- 119}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13452/} } @inproceedings{pittir13528, booktitle = {1st International IBM Cloud Academy Conference (ICA CON 2012)}, title = {Toward a Semantic Based Policy Management Framework for Interoperable Cloud Environments}, author = {Hassan Takabi and James BD Joshi}, publisher = {IBM}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13528/} } @unpublished{pittir12163, month = {June}, title = {Computational modeling of the pancreas: lifelong simulations of pancreatitis}, author = {Yerkebulan Talzhanov}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Pancreas, pancreatitis, modeling, computational simulations.}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12163/}, abstract = {The aim of this study is to build a mathematical model of the pancreas and run this model in lifelong simulations in order to understand the mechanisms that predict an increased risk of pancreatitis. The dilemma is that pancreatitis is a complex process with multiple variables, which currently make the onset, severity and outcomes unpredictable in individual patients. Genetic, environmental and metabolic factors are likely to be important for disease severity and progression, with somewhat stochastic events initiating theprocess when stress leads to injury signals. Modeling should begin in the acinar cell, with ability to incorporate duct cells, inflammatory cells, other cells and their interactions into large model. In this work we attempted to build a foundational model that incorporates the main features and interactors. We built a framework that focuses on trypsinogen activation as a major cause of auto-digestion and injury. Additional variables such as production ofpancreatic secretory trypsin inhibitor(PSTI) molecules as a defense line against active trypsin as well as bicarbonate secretion were included in the model. The effects of mutation were modeled as modified rates of trypsinogen production/activation, trypsin inactivation, PSTI production, and bicarbonate secretion. Our framework contains three compartments that represent domains where trypsin could be activated. The domains are acinar cell, lumen of the acinus, and main duct of the pancreas. We used a stochastic approach to test the general flow of the simulation. The public health and translational significance of this model is thatit would help us to understand the physiology of the pancreas more deeply. It would also allow us to consider many factors that lead to pancreatitis and predict their behavior under different conditions (e.g., therapy).} } @unpublished{pittir11228, month = {March}, type = {Technical Report}, title = {The Effects of Amygdalar Size Normalization on Group Analysis in Late-Life Depression}, author = {Robert Tamburo and James Becker and Greg Siegle and Meryl Butters and Charles Reynolds and Howard J Aizenstein}, year = {2012}, institution = {University of Pittsburgh}, keywords = {Amygdala, morphometry, depression, structural, MRI}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11228/}, abstract = {Structural MRI has been utilized in numerous ways to measure morphologic characteristics of subcortical brain regions. Volumetric analysis is frequently used to quantify the size of brain structures to ultimately compare size differences between individuals. In order to make such comparisons, inter-subject variability in brain and/or head size must be taken into consideration. A heterogeneous set of methods are commonly used to normalize regional volume by brain and/or head size yielding inconsistent findings making it diffcult to interpret and compare results from published volumetric studies. This study investigated the effect that various volume normalization methodologies might have on group analysis. Specifically, the amygdalae were the regions of interest in elderly, healthy and depressed individuals. Normalization methods investigated included spatial transformations, brain and head volume, and tissue volume techniques. Group analyses were conducted with independent t-tests by dividing amygdalar volumes by various volume measures, as well as with univariate analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) analyses by using amygdalar volumes as dependent variables and various volume measures as covariates. Repeated measures ANOVA was performed to assess the effect of each normalization procedure. Results indicate that volumetric differences between groups varied based on the normalization method utilized, which may explain, in part, the discrepancy found in amygdalar volumetric studies. We believe the findings of this study are extensible to other brain regions and demographics, and thus, investigators should carefully consider the normalization methods utilized in volumetric studies to properly interpret the results and conclusions.} } @unpublished{pittir12889, month = {October}, title = {Knowledge, Representation, and the Physical World}, author = {Michael N. Tamir}, year = {2012}, keywords = {scientific representation epsilon-fidelity universality geodesic principle Einstein general relativity distribution theory phase transitions}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12889/}, abstract = {This dissertation answers how mathematical representations enable knowledge of physical systems. Contemporary responses rely on matching the properties of physical systems to properties in mathematical models, arguing that such matching allows scientists to successfully draw conclusions about physical systems through the inspection of their models. We argue that such ?matching accounts? cannot adapt to the routine mismatching pervasive in physical theories. These mismatching problems arise both when idealized models match some ?similar? but better behaved potential physical system, and in cases we classify as pathological idealization, where the models employed must satisfy constraints that could not possibly be matched by realistic physical systems (e.g. requiring an infinite particle number or infinite density). In the latter cases such pathological constraints can also lead to incompatibilities with the governing laws of the physical theory. Despite such pathologies, conclusions drawn with these representations seem to enable improved understanding and empirically confirmable knowledge of the studied physical systems. To address this dichotomy, we develop a novel condition of successful mathematical representation, called epsilon-fidelity, under which mismatched models may facilitate knowledge of realistic physical systems. Arguing against direct matching, we propose that representations can meet the conditions of epsilon-fidelity by establishing a manifold of associations between topological neighborhoods of mathematical models and clusters of relevantly similar physical systems. We then demonstrate that this shift in the scope of representation relationships explains how suitably similar models entail conclusions about the relevant systems while avoiding the problems of individual model to system mismatching. As a signature case study, we investigate Einstein?s canonical interpretation of the geodesic principle, originally proposed to govern how gravitating bodies travel according to general relativity theory. We argue that under the canonical interpretation models of bodies must either meet unrealistic assumptions or violate the theory?s fundamental field equations, marking them as pathological idealizations. To recover the principle, we reinterpret geodesic dynamics as a universality thesis about the collective behavior of certain classes of systems, explaining how this reinterpretation satisfies the epsilon-fidelity criteria and can be used to gain knowledge about the observable motion of actual classes of gravitating bodies.} } @article{pittir15905, volume = {7}, number = {9}, month = {September}, title = {A Targeted Library Screen Reveals a New Inhibitor Scaffold for Protein Kinase D}, author = {M Tandon and L Wang and Q Xu and X Xie and P Wipf and QJ Wang}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15905/}, abstract = {Protein kinase D (PKD) has emerged as a potential therapeutic target in multiple pathological conditions, including cancer and heart diseases. Potent and selective small molecule inhibitors of PKD are valuable for dissecting PKD-mediated cellular signaling pathways and for therapeutic application. In this study, we evaluated a targeted library of 235 small organic kinase inhibitors for PKD1 inhibitory activity at a single concentration. Twenty-eight PKD inhibitory chemotypes were identified and six exhibited excellent PKD1 selectivity. Five of the six lead structures share a common scaffold, with compound 139 being the most potent and selective for PKD vs PKC and CAMK. Compound 139 was an ATP-competitive PKD1 inhibitor with a low double-digit nanomolar potency and was also cell-active. Kinase profiling analysis identified this class of small molecules as pan-PKD inhibitors, confirmed their selectivity again PKC and CAMK, and demonstrated an overall favorable selectivity profile that could be further enhanced through structural modification. Furthermore, using a PKD homology model based on similar protein kinase structures, docking modes for compound 139 were explored and compared to literature examples of PKD inhibition. Modeling of these compounds at the ATP-binding site of PKD was used to rationalize its high potency and provide the foundation for future further optimization. Accordingly, using biochemical screening of a small number of privileged scaffolds and computational modeling, we have identified a new core structure for highly potent PKD inhibition with promising selectivity against closely related kinases. These lead structures represent an excellent starting point for the further optimization and the design of selective and therapeutically effective small molecule inhibitors of PKD. {\copyright} 2012 Tandon et al.} } @article{pittir17816, volume = {14}, number = {17}, month = {September}, author = {T Taniguchi and DP Curran}, title = {Silica gel promotes reductions of aldehydes and ketones by N-heterocyclic carbene boranes}, journal = {Organic Letters}, pages = {4540 -- 4543}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17816/}, abstract = {N-Heterocyclic carbene boranes (NHC-boranes) such as 1,3-dimethylimidazol- 2-ylidine trihydridoborane (diMe-Imd-BH3) serve as practical hydride donors for the reduction of aldehydes and ketones in the presence of silica gel. Primary and secondary alcohols are formed in good yields under ambient conditions. Aldehydes are selectively reduced in the presence of ketones. One, two, or even all three of the boron hydrides can be transferred. The process is attractive because all the components are stable and easy to handle and because both the reaction and isolation procedures are convenient. {\copyright} 2012 American Chemical Society.} } @article{pittir14432, volume = {34}, number = {2}, month = {March}, author = {PN Tannure and M De Castro Costa and EC K{\"u}chler and HF Romanos and JM Granjeiro and AR Vieira}, title = {Caries experience in individuals with cleft lip and palate}, journal = {Pediatric Dentistry}, pages = {127 -- 131}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14432/}, abstract = {Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess if children with clefts have an increased caries experience. Methods: Caries data was collected via clinical examination of 115 4- to 21-year-olds with clefts and 230 controls. Cleft type was confirmed through their medical records and fluoride exposure history; oral hygiene habits and dietary history were obtained though a questionnaire. Results: The adherence to the preventive oral health habits (toothbrushing, use of fluoride, and dietary factors) were not different among groups excluding the use of dental floss. The mean DMFT was 1.20 ({$\pm$}1.8 SD) for the cleft group and 0.90 ({$\pm$}1.8) for the control group. There was no significant difference in the DMFT scores between children with clefts and the control group (P=.16). The mean dmft was 1.68 ({$\pm$}2.1) for the cleft group and 2.61 ({$\pm$}2.9) for the control group. The prevalence of dental caries in primary teeth was significantly lower in the cleft-affected children vs the control group (P=.02).The percentage of caries-free individuals was similar in cleft and control groups (P=.90), and was also similar in different cleft types (P=.67). Conclusion: Caries experience in children born with clefts is not higher in comparison to control children.} } @article{pittir14436, volume = {46}, number = {4}, month = {January}, author = {PN Tannure and EC K{\"u}chler and P Falagan-Lotsch and LMF Amorim and R Raggio Luiz and MC Costa and AR Vieira and JM Granjeiro}, title = {MMP13 polymorphism decreases risk for dental caries}, journal = {Caries Research}, pages = {401 -- 407}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14436/}, abstract = {Recent evidence suggests that genetic studies may contribute to a better understanding of individual susceptibility to caries. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their tissue inhibitors have been suggested to be involved in the caries process. The purpose of this study was to determine if polymorphisms in MMP2 (rs243865), MMP9 (rs17576), MMP13 (rs2252070), and TIMP2 (rs7501477) were associated with caries. Eligible unrelated children and adolescents were evaluated using a cross-sectional design. Data on oral health habits was obtained through a questionnaire and caries data was collected by clinical examination. Genotyping of the selected polymorphisms was carried out by real-time PCR. Allele and genotype frequencies were compared between individuals with and without caries experience. Of 505 subjects, 212 were caries-free and most subjects (61.2\%) had mixed dentition. Allele frequency of MMP2, MMP13 and TIMP2 was different between caries-affected and caries-free individuals, with significant association for MMP13 (p = 0.004). Mutant allele carriers for MMP13 demonstrated a significantly decreased risk for caries (OR = 0.538, 95\% CI 0.313-0.926); this result remained significant after adjustment for candidate genes, type of dentition and dietary factors. Allelic and genotype frequencies of the polymorphism in MMP9 were similar in caries-affected and caries-free individuals. Genetic variations in MMP13 may contribute to individual differences in caries susceptibility. Our findings reinforce that susceptibility to caries results from gene-environment interactions. Copyright {\copyright} 2012 S. Karger AG, Basel.} } @article{pittir14356, volume = {40}, number = {5}, month = {May}, author = {PN Tannure and EC K{\"u}chler and A Lips and MDC Costa and RR Luiz and JM Granjeiro and AR Vieira}, title = {Genetic variation in MMP20 contributes to higher caries experience}, journal = {Journal of Dentistry}, pages = {381 -- 386}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14356/}, abstract = {Matrix metalloproteinases play an important role during the initial process of enamel development and therefore may play a role in caries. Objectives: To evaluate the association between MMP20 and caries experience in Brazilian children. Methods: Eligible unrelated children with or without caries were evaluated using a cohort design. Demographic data and oral health habits were obtained though a questionnaire. Caries data was collected by clinical examination. Genotyping of the selected polymorphism was carried out by real-time PCR from genomic DNA. Allele and genotype frequencies were compared between groups with distinct caries experience and oral health habits. Results: Of 388 subjects, 161 were caries free children. There were no differences between caries levels and genotype distribution in the total cohort. When ethnic background was considered, differences in genotype distribution were observed in caries free children vs. children with caries in Caucasians (p = 0.03). Differences could also be seen when poor oral hygiene was used to stratify the analysis (p = 0.02). Regression analysis, adjusted for genotype and ethnicity, confirmed that ingestion of sweets between meals increases the risk of presenting carious lesions (p = 0.00001; OR = 2.33; 95\%CI 1.53-3.54). Conclusion: Variation in MMP20 may be associated with caries experience mainly in Caucasian subjects with poor oral health habits. {\copyright} 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.} } @article{pittir14348, volume = {49}, number = {2}, month = {January}, author = {PN Tannure and CAGR Oliveira and LC Maia and AR Vieira and JM Granjeiro and M De Castro Costa}, title = {Prevalence of dental anomalies in nonsyndromic individuals with cleft lip and palate: A systematic review and meta-analysis}, journal = {Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Journal}, pages = {194 -- 200}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14348/}, abstract = {Objective: To assess whether individuals born with nonsyndromic oral clefts display a higher frequency of dental anomalies. Design: A search of MEDLINE, BIREME, OVID ALL EMB Reviews, and The Cochrane Library was conducted. The methodologic quality of the papers selected was assessed and scored. Papers reporting observational controlled studies of nonsyndromic forms of oral cleft matched for dental anomalies in primary and/or permanent teeth were included without language restrictions. Eligible studies were scored as "A" - low risk of bias, "B" - moderate risk of bias, or "C" - high risk of bias and poor quality. Fixed and random effects models were used to aggregate individual odds ratios (OR) and to derive pooled estimates and 95\% confidence intervals. Results: Six studies fulfilled our selection criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. Three distinct subgroup analyses were carried out in terms of dental anomalies. In the tooth agenesis meta-analysis, a random effects model was used because of heterogeneity and showed a significant association between tooth agenesis and oral clefts (OR = 12.31; 95\% confidence interval [CI] = 3.75 to 40.36). In the remaining analyses, the fixed effects model revealed a positive association between supernumerary (OR = 4.99; 95\% CI, 2.58 to 9.64) and crown morphologic abnormalities (OR = 5.69; 95\% CI, 3.96 to 8.19) with oral clefts. Most included studies were of low to moderate quality. Conclusion: Although general limitations in study design were observed, the evidence suggests that a higher number of dental anomalies in the permanent dentition are noted in individuals born with oral clefts.} } @unpublished{pittir10540, month = {February}, title = {A Non-Contact Electrode for Measurement of Electrocardiography}, author = {Quan/Q Tao}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Non-contact measurement, capacitive electrode, electrocardiography, spherical volume conductor model}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10540/}, abstract = {Heart disease has become a widespread epidemic threatening the health of millions of Americans and costing billions of dollars in therapy. In heart disease treatment, an effective heart monitoring technique is desired. In this thesis, a novel non-contact electrode was designed and fabricated to measure electrocardiography (ECG) based on widely used spherical volume conductor model. This model has been demonstrated to have a closed-form solution, which enables measurement of electric potential with capacitive electrode. Finite element analysis performed in Ansoft Maxwell software showed the feasibility of using an X-antenna to represent the ideal current dipole. The capacitive electrode we designed consists of two small sensing electrodes and a large reference electrode. This electrode measured promising signals for both direct and non-contact tests on spherical volume conductor model. Experiments were performed to find the best orientation and location for the electrode to measure the most significant signals on the surface of the sphere. Our electrode can also showed positive results in realizing both direct and non-contact measurement of the real ECG signals.} } @article{pittir14152, month = {March}, title = {Population based model of human embryonic stem cell (hESC) differentiation during endoderm induction}, author = {K Task and M Jaramillo and I Banerjee}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14152/}, abstract = {The mechanisms by which human embryonic stem cells (hESC) differentiate to endodermal lineage have not been extensively studied. Mathematical models can aid in the identification of mechanistic information. In this work we use a population-based modeling approach to understand the mechanism of endoderm induction in hESC, performed experimentally with exposure to Activin A and Activin A supplemented with growth factors (basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF2) and bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4)). The differentiating cell population is analyzed daily for cellular growth, cell death, and expression of the endoderm proteins Sox17 and CXCR4. The stochastic model starts with a population of undifferentiated cells, wherefrom it evolves in time by assigning each cell a propensity to proliferate, die and differentiate using certain user defined rules. Twelve alternate mechanisms which might describe the observed dynamics were simulated, and an ensemble parameter estimation was performed on each mechanism. A comparison of the quality of agreement of experimental data with simulations for several competing mechanisms led to the identification of one which adequately describes the observed dynamics under both induction conditions. The results indicate that hESC commitment to endoderm occurs through an intermediate mesendoderm germ layer which further differentiates into mesoderm and endoderm, and that during induction proliferation of the endoderm germ layer is promoted. Furthermore, our model suggests that CXCR4 is expressed in mesendoderm and endoderm, but is not expressed in mesoderm. Comparison between the two induction conditions indicates that supplementing FGF2 and BMP4 to Activin A enhances the kinetics of differentiation than Activin A alone. This mechanistic information can aid in the derivation of functional, mature cells from their progenitors. While applied to initial endoderm commitment of hESC, the model is general enough to be applicable either to a system of adult stem cells or later stages of ESC differentiation. {\copyright} 2012 Task et al.} } @unpublished{pittir12841, month = {September}, title = {Assessment of the Factors Affecting Protective Alumina Formation Under Hot Corrosion Conditions}, author = {Michael/N Task}, year = {2012}, keywords = {hot corrosion; nickel aluminide; alumina; incubation stage; type I; type II}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12841/}, abstract = {In this study, the influence of microstructure, composition, and phase constitution on the Type I (900?C) and Type II (700?C) hot corrosion resistance of MCrAlY and {\ensuremath{\beta}}-NiAl base alloys was investigated. The Type II hot corrosion resistance of MCrAlY alloys is generally enhanced by microstructural refinement. This can be attributed to the more rapid establishment of a protective Al2O3-rich scale due to the higher density of short-circuit diffusion paths for Al (phase boundaries). However, it was shown that for a given bulk composition, the compositions of the individual phases is also extremely important. If one phase is lean in an element which is highly beneficial from a hot corrosion standpoint, e.g., Cr, Type II hot corrosion resistance is quite poor, regardless of the microstructural scale. In addition, coarse reactive-element-rich phases, which are commonly found in MCrAlY alloys, can be incorporated into the thermally grown Al2O3 scale and act as initiation sites for Type II attack. This stresses the importance of reactive element content and distribution in MCrAlY coatings. During Type I hot corrosion exposure of {\ensuremath{\beta}}-Ni-36Al (at. \%) base alloys, the incubation stage is greatly extended by the addition of 5\% Pt, Co, or Cr. In each case, the beneficial effects can be linked to an enhanced ability to rapidly form a protective Al2O3 scale, and to heal this scale when it sustains damage during exposure. With regard to Type II hot corrosion, individual additions of 5 at. \% Pt or Cr are beneficial, largely for the same reason; however, additions of 5 at. \% Co and co-additions of 5 at. \% Pt + 5 at. \% Cr result in a decrease in the duration of the incubation stage. Subsurface phase transformations that occur in the latter systems prevent the alloy from maintaining the growth of the Al2O3 scale. This mechanism is discussed in detail. Finally, the influence of alloy composition and exposure environment on the kinetics of the {\ensuremath{\theta}}?{\ensuremath{\alpha}} Al2O3 transformation in scales grown on {\ensuremath{\beta}}-NiAl alloys at 900?C was thoroughly investigated. The relative importance of the kinetics of this transformation during Type I hot corrosion exposure is discussed. } } @article{pittir14353, volume = {141}, number = {1}, month = {January}, author = {M Tassopoulou-Fishell and K Deeley and EM Harvey and J Sciote and AR Vieira}, title = {Genetic variation in Myosin 1H contributes to mandibular prognathism}, journal = {American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics}, pages = {51 -- 59}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14353/}, abstract = {Introduction: Several candidate loci have been suggested as influencing mandibular prognathism (1p22.1, 1p22.2, 1p36, 3q26.2, 5p13-p12, 6q25, 11q22.2-q22.3, 12q23, 12q13.13, and 19p13.2). The goal of this study was to replicate these results in a well-characterized homogeneous sample set. Methods: Thirty-three single nucleotide polymorphisms spanning all candidate regions were studied in 44 prognathic and 35 Class I subjects from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine Dental Registry and DNA Repository. The 44 subjects with mandibular prognathism had an average age of 18.4 years; 31 were female and 13 male; and 24 were white, 15 African American, 2 Hispanic, and 3 Asian. The 36 Class I subjects had an average age of 17.6 years; 27 were female and 9 male; and 27 were white, 6 African American, 1 Hispanic, and 2 Asian. Skeletal mandibular prognathism diagnosis included cephalometric values indicative of Class III such as an ANB smaller than 2?, a negative Wits appraisal, and a positive A-B plane. Additional mandibular prognathism criteria included negative overjet and visually prognathic (concave) profile as determined by the subject's clinical evaluation. Orthognathic subjects without jaw deformations were used as the comparison group. The mandibular prognathic and orthognathic subjects were matched by race, sex, and age. Genetic markers were tested by polymerase chain reaction with TaqMan chemistry. Chi-square and Fisher exact tests were used to determine overrepresentation of marker allele with an alpha of 0.05. Results: An association was unveiled between a marker in MYO1H (rs10850110) and the mandibular prognathism phenotype (P = 0.03). MYO1H is a Class I myosin that is in a different protein group than the myosin isoforms of muscle sarcomeres, which are the basis of skeletal muscle fiber typing. Class I myosins are necessary for cell motility, phagocytosis, and vesicle transport. Conclusions: More strict clinical definitions might increase homogeneity and aid the studies of genetic susceptibility to malocclusions. We provide evidence that MYO1H can contribute to mandibular prognathism.} } @article{pittir12712, volume = {7}, number = {5}, month = {May}, title = {Vibrio cholerae vexH encodes a multiple drug efflux pump that contributes to the production of cholera toxin and the toxin co-regulated pilus}, author = {DL Taylor and XR Bina and JE Bina}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12712/}, abstract = {The resistance-nodulation-division (RND) efflux systems are ubiquitous transporters that function in antimicrobial resistance. Recent studies showed that RND systems were required for virulence factor production in Vibrio cholerae. The V. cholerae genome encodes six RND efflux systems. Three of the RND systems (VexB, VexD, and VexK) were previously shown to be redundant for in vitro resistance to bile acids and detergents. A mutant lacking the VexB, VexD, and VexK RND pumps produced wild-type levels of cholera toxin (CT) and the toxin co-regulated pilus (TCP) and was moderately attenuated for intestinal colonization. In contrast, a RND negative mutant produced significantly reduced amounts of CT and TCP and displayed a severe colonization defect. This suggested that one or more of the three uncharacterized RND efflux systems (i.e. VexF, VexH, and VexM) were required for pathogenesis. In this study, a genetic approach was used to generate a panel of V. cholerae RND efflux pump mutants in order to determine the function of VexH in antimicrobial resistance, virulence factor production, and intestinal colonization. VexH contributed to in vitro antimicrobial resistance and exhibited a broad substrate specificity that was redundant with the VexB, VexD, and VexK RND efflux pumps. These four efflux pumps were responsible for in vitro antimicrobial resistance and were required for virulence factor production and intestinal colonization. Mutation of the VexF and/or VexM efflux pumps did not affect in vitro antimicrobial resistance, but did negatively affect CT and TCP production. Collectively, our results demonstrate that the V. cholerae RND efflux pumps have redundant functions in antimicrobial resistance and virulence factor production. This suggests that the RND efflux systems contribute to V. cholerae pathogenesis by providing the bacterium with protection against antimicrobial compounds that are present in the host and by contributing to the regulated expression of virulence factors. {\copyright} 2012 Taylor et al.} } @unpublished{pittir11719, month = {September}, title = {Comparative Analysis of Datacenter Electrical Distribution Architectures}, author = {Emmanuel Taylor}, year = {2012}, keywords = {DC distribution and DC microgrids, distributed resources and microgrids, computer and telecom power supplies, system architecture, UPS and energy storage, circuit modeling and simulation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11719/}, abstract = {This thesis analyzes the propagation of voltage transients within datacenter facilities. Two datacenter distribution architectures are modeled. The first architecture represents the standard AC approach to distributing electric power within a datacenter. This AC system model contains power electronic circuits representing the various components of the system. The second architecture distributes 380 V DC throughout the datacenter facility. This system model also contains power electronic circuits representing the behavior of the various pieces of datacenter equipment. Both architectures are modeled using the PSCAD software package. The datacenter equipment modeled includes AC and DC uninterruptible power supplies, AC and DC server power supplies, equipment used for protection and isolation, as well as the server electronics. In both cases, the datacenter facility is serviced with electric power through a modeled utility distribution network. This network includes a medium voltage substation model. The substation contains a medium voltage feed, as well as a switched shunt capacitor bank. During the simulation, the capacitor bank is actively connected to the substation bus through the closing action of a circuit breaker. This action creates a voltage transient which propagates through the distribution network. This thesis analyzes the propagation of voltage transients within datacenter facilities. Two datacenter distribution architectures are modeled. The first architecture represents the standard AC approach to distributing electric power within a datacenter. This AC system model contains power electronic circuits representing the various components of the system. The second architecture distributes 380 V DC throughout the datacenter facility. This system model also contains power electronic circuits representing the behavior of the various pieces of datacenter equipment. Both architectures are modeled using the PSCAD software package. The datacenter equipment modeled includes AC and DC uninterruptible power supplies, AC and DC server power supplies, equipment used for protection and isolation, as well as the server electronics. In both cases, the datacenter facility is serviced with electric power through a modeled utility distribution network. This network includes a medium voltage substation model. The substation contains a medium voltage feed, as well as a switched shunt capacitor bank. During the simulation, the capacitor bank is actively connected to the substation bus through the closing action of a circuit breaker. This action creates a voltage transient which propagates through the distribution network. COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF DATACENTER ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTION ARCHITECTURES Emmanuel J. Taylor, M.S. University of Pittsburgh, 2012 v This voltage transient is introduced to the entrance of each datacenter facility. Measurements are taken at various points throughout the distribution architectures, observing the propagation of the transient through the various power electronic devices. At the input terminals of the AC and DC server power supplies, the voltage deviations are measured for comparison against applicable manufacturing standards. This is done to assess whether the transients in each architecture fall within acceptable limits. The analysis shows that each architecture has its specific concerns, with regard to transients, and demonstrates the importance of transient research for datacenters.} } @unpublished{pittir10812, month = {January}, title = {CHARACTERISTICS OF EFFECTIVE ONLINE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT: A CASE STUDY ANALYSIS OF AN ONLINE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE OFFERED VIA BLACKBOARD}, author = {Jeffrey Taylor}, year = {2012}, keywords = {online professional development, online learning, K-12 professional development}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10812/}, abstract = {The purpose of this study is to examine the nature of online professional development (OPD) for K-12 educators in the context of Blackboard, a web-based courses management system (WBCMS). Considering the widespread access to the Internet, an increased demand for teacher professional development, and the advances in information and communication technologies, a proliferation of online professional development courses for teachers has emerged in recent years (Dede, 2006; Galley, 2002). With such a wide variety of online professional development courses available, it is important to study the characteristics of effective OPD courses in order for educators responsible for coordinating staff development to gain the knowledge to better create, facilitate, and select online professional development (OPD) courses and/or opportunities for K-12 educators. This case study examined the factors impacting educator interest and engagement in OPD courses, the characteristics of OPD courses that educators (participants) perceived as effective, and how a specific OPD course addressed the characteristics of effective professional development. The findings in this study identified three reasons for which the participants chose to enroll in an online professional development course. They are: (1) maintaining teacher certification requirements, (2) interest/relevance, (3) convenience (time). After engaging in the entire OPD course, participants reported three perceived characteristics of effective online professional development courses - instructional design, interactivity, and collaboration. These findings agreed with the research literature in that instructional design, interactivity, and collaboration are important characteristics in online professional development. It was determined in this case study that online professional development meets the four overarching characteristics of effective professional development of: (1) time, (2) collaboration, (3) content and pedagogy focused, and (4) relevance. The findings from this case study offer a description of the nature of effective online professional development and may be used as a foundation for discussing implementing online professional development courses in school districts.} } @unpublished{pittir13026, month = {August}, title = {VALIDATION OF THE BODYMEDIA MINI ARMBAND TO ESTIMATE ENERGY EXPENDITURE OF FEMALE BASKETBALL PLAYERS DURING VARIABLE INTENSITY GAME-LIKE CONDITIONS}, author = {Monica Taylor}, year = {2012}, keywords = {armband, energy expenditure, BodyMedia, Women's Basketball}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13026/}, abstract = {Monitoring an athlete?s energy intake and energy expenditure (EE) is an important consideration of nutritional planning for sport conditioning and peak performance. In order to provide appropriate recommendations regarding nutritional requirements and caloric needs, an accurate determination of energy requirements is necessary. By knowing an individual?s EE, a coach or trainer may be effectively able to determine training loads and volumes necessary for periodization, and seasonal planning for a particular sport. Purpose: To examine the accuracy of the BodyMedia mini armband, to assess EE in female basketball players during various-intensity game-like conditions. Methods: A cross-sectional correlation design with multiple observations was employed. This investigation required three testing sessions, an orientation session, and 2 experimental trial sections. Trials included a maximal multistage 20-m shuttle run (Trial I) and 30-minute basketball skills session (Trial II). The independent variable for this investigation was EE estimated by the Mini armband. The dependent variable was EE determined by the indirect calorimetry (IC) method. Results: EE assessed with the Mini and EE measured with the IC method was significantly correlated for both Trial I (r= 0.839) and Trial II (r= 0.833). EE calculated by the Mini was significantly underestimated in both Trial I (9.41 {$\pm$} 26.1 total kcals) and Trial II (56.71 {$\pm$} 14.1 total kcals). During Trial I the underestimation of EE increased with an increase in test level and intensity. Conclusion: Due to the underestimation of EE by the Mini, the development of exercise specific algorithms to improve the estimation of EE during intermittent exercise in basketball players is warranted.} } @article{pittir17700, volume = {1}, number = {1}, month = {January}, author = {MA Tehfe and J Monot and M Malacria and L Fensterbank and JP Fouassier and DP Curran and E Lac{\^o}te and J Lalev{\'e}e}, title = {A water-compatible NHC-borane: Photopolymerizations in water and rate constants for elementary radical reactions}, journal = {ACS Macro Letters}, pages = {92 -- 95}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17700/}, abstract = {Rate constants for important elementary reactions of 2,4-dimethyl-1,2,4- triazol- 3-ylidene borane (1) and its derived boryl radical have been measured in the presence and absence of water. Reactions including H-abstraction by tBuO, and onward reactions of the derived radical with methyl acrylate (addition), iodopropane (halogen abstraction), and an iodonium salt (oxidation) are unaffected by the presence of a high concentration (1.5 M) of water. Extending these results, borane (1) has been found to be an efficient new co-initiator for the visible light photopolymerization of monomers in the presence of both air and water. {\copyright} 2011 American Chemical Society.} } @unpublished{pittir13912, month = {September}, title = {THE TRANSITION FROM PREKINDERGARTEN TO KINDERGARTEN FOR CHILDREN WITH AND WITHOUT DISABILITIES: COMPARING ENGAGEMENT AND VALUE RATINGS OF PREKINDERGARTEN AND KINDERGARTEN TEACHERS IN TRANSITION-TO-KINDERGARTEN ACTIVITIES}, author = {Jennifer Tepe}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Transition to Kindergarten}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13912/}, abstract = {Transition to kindergarten is defined as an important milestone for young children. Transition from prekindergarten to kindergarten sets the stage for formal school. Academic success, parental involvement and teacher-to-teacher support are all the building blocks to future success for children with and without disabilities. As educators and researchers, we recognize the importance of relationships among key players (Rimm-Kaufmann \& Pianta, 2000) in this important transition. The Ecological and Dynamic Model (Rimm-Kaufmann \& Pianta, 2000) emphasizes the importance of relationships among these key players for achieving successful kindergarten transitions. Furthermore, most of the recommended transition practices focus on relationship-building through communication among and/or between key players. Although the magnitude of relationship-building is recognized in the literature, the lack of interagency communication and/or relationship building continues to create barriers to successful transitions. For example, key players such as parents, prekindergarten teachers, and kindergarten teachers do not always communicate sufficiently to provide smooth transitions for young children with and without disabilities. Further complications are created by the lack of value placed on the v relationship between key players by teachers. Transition to kindergarten continues to be defined as a stressful time for all families and teachers alike. Consequently, this study?s purpose was to examine the activities that prekindergarten and kindergarten teachers engaged in during the transition to kindergarten for children with and without disabilities and the value they placed on these activities. More specifically, this study utilized The Ecological and Dynamic Model of Transition (EDM) to define key players and the importance of interconnectedness of key players during transition. This study further examined what activities prekindergarten teachers and kindergarten teachers engaged in to support children with and without disabilities, families of children with and without disabilities, kindergarten and prekindergarten teachers, peers, and the community during the transition to kindergarten and the types of transition activities both sets of teachers valued. This information yielded important insights about the extent and value both types of teachers placed on relationship-building with key players during this critical time in a child?s development. The data collected in the survey of 35 prekindergarten teachers and 45 kindergarten teachers in southwestern Pennsylvania demonstrated that both prekindergarten and kindergarten teachers engaged in a variety of transition activities. The results also revealed that both sets of teachers valued the transition activities even if the teachers did not always engage in those activities.} } @article{pittir29880, volume = {12}, number = {S1}, month = {June}, author = {L Terhorst and M Schneider}, title = {P04.06. Complementary and alternative medicine in the treatment of pain in fibromyalgia: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials}, publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC}, journal = {BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29880/} } @unpublished{pittir10931, month = {January}, type = {Technical Report}, title = {QUANTIFICATION OF NORMAL BRAIN AGING USING FULLY DEFORMABLE REGISTRATION}, author = {Leonid Teverovsky and James T Becker and Howard J Aizenstein and Owen T Carmichael and Caroline Cidis Meltzer and Stephen T DeKosky and Lewis Kuller and Oscar L Lopez and Paul M Thompson and Yanxi Liu}, year = {2012}, institution = {University of Pittsburgh}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10931/}, abstract = {Over the next twenty-five years, the proportion of the population over age 65 will increase 76\%; therefore understanding both the normal and pathological processes involved in the aging of the human brain is of the highest public health priority. We report here the use of a computational method that provides estimates of the ?brain age? of individuals that is based solely on a high resolution Magnetic Resonance Image (MRI) of the brain of the individual, and is blinded to his or her true chronological age. The method proceeds in two phases: first, a statistical learning algorithm is used to determine the numerical MRI-based features that predict true age on a training set of 198 healthy elderly individuals; second, these features are used to predict the true age of previously-unseen individuals. In cross-validation experiments, the brain age estimates differed from true age by a mean absolute error of 5.35 years in an elderly cohort, reflecting the broad heterogeneity in structural integrity of the elderly brain. The ?brain age? of female subjects was significantly lower than that of male subjects who had the same true age (3.0 years younger for 50-year-olds and 1.6 years younger for 79 year olds), reflecting the longer life expectancy of females. Across the elderly age spectrum, the ?brain age? of individuals with Alzheimer's Disease (AD) was significantly higher than that of cognitively-healthy elderly subjects with equivalent true age; however, this was not the case for the subjects with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a possible AD prodrome.} } @article{pittir29801, volume = {6}, month = {November}, title = {An efficient heuristic method for active feature acquisition and its application to protein-protein interaction prediction}, author = {M Thahir and T Sharma and MK Ganapathiraju}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Proceedings}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29801/}, abstract = {Background: Machine learning approaches for classification learn the pattern of the feature space of different classes, or learn a boundary that separates the feature space into different classes. The features of the data instances are usually available, and it is only the class-labels of the instances that are unavailable. For example, to classify text documents into different topic categories, the words in the documents are features and they are readily available, whereas the topic is what is predicted. However, in some domains obtaining features may be resource-intensive because of which not all features may be available. An example is that of protein-protein interaction prediction, where not only are the labels ('interacting' or 'non-interacting') unavailable, but so are some of the features. It may be possible to obtain at least some of the missing features by carrying out a few experiments as permitted by the available resources. If only a few experiments can be carried out to acquire missing features, which proteins should be studied and which features of those proteins should be determined? From the perspective of machine learning for PPI prediction, it would be desirable that those features be acquired which when used in training the classifier, the accuracy of the classifier is improved the most. That is, the utility of the feature-acquisition is measured in terms of how much acquired features contribute to improving the accuracy of the classifier. Active feature acquisition (AFA) is a strategy to preselect such instance-feature combinations (i.e. protein and experiment combinations) for maximum utility. The goal of AFA is the creation of optimal training set that would result in the best classifier, and not in determining the best classification model itself. Results: We present a heuristic method for active feature acquisition to calculate the utility of acquiring a missing feature. This heuristic takes into account the change in belief of the classification model induced by the acquisition of the feature under consideration. As compared to random selection of proteins on which the experiments are performed and the type of experiment that is performed, the heuristic method reduces the number of experiments to as few as 40\%. Most notable characteristic of this method is that it does not require re-training of the classification model on every possible combination of instance, feature and feature-value tuples. For this reason, our method is far less computationally expensive as compared with previous AFA strategies. Conclusions: The results show that our heuristic method for AFA creates an optimal training set with far less features acquired as compared to random acquisition. This shows the value of active feature acquisition to aid in protein-protein interaction prediction where feature acquisition is costly. Compared to previous methods, the proposed method reduces computational cost while also achieving a better F-score. The proposed method is valuable as it presents a direction to AFA with a far lesser computational expense by removing the need for the first time, of training a classifier for every combination of instance, feature and feature-value tuples which would be impractical for several domains.} } @unpublished{pittir13028, month = {September}, title = {Role of Intracellular Labile Zinc in LPS-Induced Apoptosis in Sheep Pulmonary Arterial Endothelial Cells (SPAECS)}, author = {Kalidasan Thambiayya}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Zinc, LPS, Nitric Oxide, Metallothionein, ZIP14, SLC39A14, apoptosis, pulmonary endothelium, Acute lung injuey, S-nitrosation, caspase-3, zinc homeostasis.}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13028/}, abstract = {We recently noted that exogenous zinc was capable of counteracting LPS-induced decreases in labile [Zn]i (i.e., TPEN chelatable, FluoZin-3 detectable) and simultaneously abrogated LPS-induced apoptosis in SPAECs. In an abbreviated survey of the effect of LPS on potential zinc transporters, we noted that LPS increased mRNA of zinc importer, SLC39A14 or ZIP14 (and this effect was mimicked by zinc chelator, TPEN) suggesting that increased expression of SLC39A14 may be an homeostatic mechanism to maintain [Zn]i and reduce cellular toxicity to LPS. In the current study, we noted that knockdown of SLC39A14 with siRNA rendered SPAECs more sensitive to LPS-induced apoptosis and also impaired the ability of exogenous zinc to rescue this effect. We also previously noted that iNOS or chemically derived (S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine (SNAP)) nitric oxide (NO) is associated with resistant phenotype to LPS-induced apoptosis in a zinc dependent fashion. Since ZIP14 expression has been reported to be indirectly upregulated by NO, we pursued this connection in SPAECs by silencing ZIP14 using siRNA technology. We noted that NO-mediated resistance to LPS-induced apoptosis was independent of ZIP14 but was critically dependent upon the presence of sheep metallothionein (MT). In particular, genetic silencing of these collective forms of sheep MT isoforms abrogated the NO-dependent resistant phenotype to LPS-induced apoptosis as well as abolishing NO-mediated increases in [Zn]i. Collectively, these data confirm that increases in labile [Zn]i are an important component of ZIP14- or NO-mediated resistance to LPS-induced apoptosis. Cytoprotection via ZIP14 appears to be secondary to transcellular movement of extracellular zinc whereas NO mediated protection is secondary to S-nitrosation of MT and redistribution of intracellular zinc.} } @article{pittir15881, volume = {7}, number = {8}, month = {August}, title = {Association of Caucasian-identified variants with colorectal cancer risk in Singapore Chinese}, author = {LF Thean and HH Li and YY Teo and WP Koh and JM Yuan and ML Teoh and PK Koh and CL Tang and PY Cheah}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15881/}, abstract = {Background: Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) in Caucasians have identified fourteen index single nucleotide polymorphisms (iSNPs) that influence colorectal cancer (CRC) risk. Methods: We investigated the role of eleven iSNPs or surrogate SNPs (sSNPs), in high linkage disequilibrium (LD, r2?0.8) and within 100 kb vicinity of iSNPs, in 2,000 age- and gender-matched Singapore Chinese (SCH) cases and controls. Results: Only iSNP rs6983267 at 8q24.21 and sSNPs rs6695584, rs11986063, rs3087967, rs2059254, and rs7226855 at 1q41, 8q23.3, 11q23.1, 16q22.1 and 18q21.1 respectively showed evidence of association with CRC risk, with odds ratios (OR) ranging from 1.13 to 1.40. sSNP rs827401 at 10p14 was associated with rectal cancer risk (OR = 0.74, 95\% CI 0.63-0.88) but not disease prognosis (OR = 0.91, 95\% CI 0.69-1.20). Interestingly, sSNP rs3087967 at 11q23.1 was associated with CRC risk in men (OR = 1.34, 95\% CI 1.14-1.58) but not women (OR = 1.07, 95\% CI: 0.88-1.29), suggesting a gender-specific role. Half of the Caucasian-identified variants, including the recently fine-mapped BMP pathway loci, BMP4, GREM1, BMP2 and LAMA 5, did not show any evidence for association with CRC in SCH (OR {\texttt{\char126}}1; p-value {\ensuremath{>}}0.1). Comparing the results of this study with that of the Northern and Hong Kong Chinese, only variants at chromosomes 8q24.21, 10p14, 11q23.1 and 18q21.1 were replicated in at least two out of the three Chinese studies. Conclusions: The contrasting results between Caucasians and Chinese could be due to different LD patterns and allelic frequencies or genetic heterogeneity. The results suggest that additional common variants contributing to CRC predisposition remained to be identified. {\copyright} 2012 Thean et al.} } @unpublished{pittir10655, month = {February}, title = { TIME-FREQUENCY APPROXIMATION AND FEATURE EXTRACTION FOR RANGE-DEPENDENT UNDERWATER SOUND PROPAGATION}, author = {Vikram Thiruneermalai Gomatam}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Moments, Feature Extraction, Classification}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10655/}, abstract = {Sonar systems are used in localization, detection and classification of various objects in marine environments. Unlike the propagation of sound in air, which is largely unaffected by dispersion, the underwater channel can be highly dispersive, especially in shallow water environments. Such channels also introduce other significant propagation effects, including multipath and frequency-dependent energy attenuation due to interactions of the sound with the ocean surface and bottom. Compensating for these propagation effects is important with regard to classification of underwater objects based on their sonar backscatter, as the target ?signature? will be different at different locations. Previous work in our lab has developed feature extraction methods for dispersion-invariant classification, and approximation methods to solve for dispersive propagation, in range-independent environments. Such environments, wherein the channel characteristics do not change with propagation distance, represent an idealistic assumption that generally does not hold for long-range propagation in underwater channels. In this work we concentrate on range-dependent guided wave propagation. We begin with an examination of the classification performance of the previously developed range-independent features in a range-dependent model, namely an ideal wedge waveguide. Motivated by the degradation in classification performance of these features, we derive new features that mitigate the range-dependent dispersion effects and show that the derived features outperform range-independent features in a wedge waveguide. We also derive the approximate Wigner distribution for a pulse propagating in this range-dependent environment, and highlight similarities and differences of this new result with a previously developed range-independent approximation. This approximation can be a useful tool for estimating the evolution of pulse propagating in a range-dependent channel. Finally, we explore a second range-dependent model, namely the Parabolic Equation, which can be adapted to a wide array of propagation environments and media. We derive features that are invariant to dispersion and attenuation from this model.} } @unpublished{pittir6235, month = {February}, title = {THERAPEUTIC DEVELOPMENT FOR CYSTIC FIBROSIS}, author = {Kristina Thomas}, year = {2012}, keywords = {DTPA, biomarkers, CF}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/6235/}, abstract = {This thesis considers the aspects of therapeutics development for Cystic Fibrosis (CF). The studies are directed at the development of a new therapeutic outcome measurement for evaluating the performance of CF medications. This imaging-based outcome measures the absorption of a small-molecular radiopharmaceutical, Diethylene triamine pentaacetic acid (DTPA) from the airways as a surrogate measure of liquid absorption. Airway liquid hyper-absorption is a key aspect of CF lung disease that would be expected to correct rapidly after administration of a successful therapy. In vivo pilot studies of this technique have been previously performed at our center [1]. Here we report the results of in vitro studies performed to better define the mechanism underpinning our method and define its utility and limitations.} } @unpublished{pittir13518, month = {August}, title = {Designing Clinical Data Presentation Using Cognitive Task Analysis Methods}, author = {Thankam/Paul Thyvalikakath}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Cognitive Task Analysis, Electronic Health Record, Usability, Dental Electronic Health record, Clinical Data, System Design, Electronic Dental Records, Cognitive Engineering, Clinical Decision Support}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13518/}, abstract = {Despite the many decades of research on effective use of clinical systems in medicine, the adoption of health information technology to improve patient care continues to be slow especially in ambulatory settings. This applies to dentistry as well, a primary care discipline with approximately 137,000 practicing dentists in the United States. One critical reason is the poor usability of clinical systems, which makes it difficult for providers to navigate through the system and obtain an integrated view of patient data during patient care. Cognitive science methods have shown significant promise to meaningfully inform and formulate the design, development and assessment of clinical information systems. Most of these methods were applied to evaluate the design of systems after they have been developed. Very few studies, on the other hand, have used cognitive engineering methods to inform the design process for a system itself. It is this gap in knowledge ? how cognitive engineering methods can be optimally applied to inform the system design process ? that this research seeks to address through this project proposal. This project examined the cognitive processes and information management strategies used by dentists during a typical patient exam and used the results to inform the design of an electronic dental record interface. The resulting 'proof of concept' was evaluated to determine the effectiveness and efficiency of such a cognitively engineered and application flow design. The results of this study contribute to designing clinical systems that provide clinicians with better cognitive support during patient care. Such a system will contribute to enhancing the quality and safety of patient care, and potentially to reducing healthcare costs. } } @article{pittir18893, volume = {24}, number = {9}, month = {September}, author = {HV Tieu and P Spikes and J Patterson and S Bonner and JE Egan and K Goodman and K Stewart and V Frye and G Xu and DR Hoover and BA Koblin}, title = {Sociodemographic and risk behavior characteristics associated with unprotected sex with women among black men who have sex with men and women in New York City}, journal = {AIDS Care - Psychological and Socio-Medical Aspects of AIDS/HIV}, pages = {1111 -- 1119}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18893/}, abstract = {The objectives of this cross-sectional study were to compare sociodemographic and risk behavior characteristics between black men who have sex with both men and women (MSMW) and those who have sex with men only (MSMO) and assess factors associated with having any unprotected vaginal and/or anal intercourse (UVAI) with women in the last 3 months. Data from 326 black men who reported recent unprotected anal intercourse with a man in an HIV behavioral intervention study in New York City were analyzed. Baseline characteristics were compared between MSMW and MSMO, and factors associated with having any UVAI in the past 3 months with women among MSMW were evaluated. In total, 26.8\% reported having sex with both men and women in the last 3 months. MSMW were less likely to be HIV infected, use amyl nitrates, and have unprotected receptive anal sex with most recent male partner. MSMW were more likely to be over 40 years old and use heroin. A total of 55.6\% of MSMW reported having UVAI with women in the last 3 months. Compared to MSMW having only protected sex, MSMW having any UVAI with women were less likely to be HIV infected and to disclose having sex with men to female partners; they were more likely to have greater than four male sex partners in the last 3 months. In conclusion, HIV prevention interventions among black MSMW should directly address the risk of HIV transmission to both their female and male partners. Disclosure of bisexuality to female partners may be an important component of future prevention efforts. {\copyright} 2012 Taylor \& Francis.} } @article{pittir20851, volume = {122}, number = {7}, month = {July}, author = {JS Tilstra and AR Robinson and J Wang and SQ Gregg and CL Clauson and DP Reay and LA Nasto and CM St Croix and A Usas and N Vo and J Huard and PR Clemens and DB Stolz and DC Guttridge and SC Watkins and GA Garinis and Y Wang and LJ Niedernhofer and PD Robbins}, title = {NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B inhibition delays DNA damage - Induced senescence and aging in mice}, journal = {Journal of Clinical Investigation}, pages = {2601 -- 2612}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20851/}, abstract = {The accumulation of cellular damage, including DNA damage, is thought to contribute to aging-related degenerative changes, but how damage drives aging is unknown. XFE progeroid syndrome is a disease of accelerated aging caused by a defect in DNA repair. NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B, a transcription factor activated by cellular damage and stress, has increased activity with aging and aging-related chronic diseases. To determine whether NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B drives aging in response to the accumulation of spontaneous, endogenous DNA damage, we measured the activation of NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B in WT and progeroid model mice. As both WT and progeroid mice aged, NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B was activated stochastically in a variety of cell types. Genetic depletion of one allele of the p65 subunit of NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B or treatment with a pharmacological inhibitor of the NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B - activating kinase, IKK, delayed the age-related symptoms and pathologies of progeroid mice. Additionally, inhibition of NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B reduced oxidative DNA damage and stress and delayed cellular senescence. These results indicate that the mechanism by which DNA damage drives aging is due in part to NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B activation. IKK/NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B inhibitors are sufficient to attenuate this damage and could provide clinical benefit for degenerative changes associated with accelerated aging disorders and normal aging.} } @unpublished{pittir11617, month = {June}, title = {Optical Properties of Self-organized Silver Nano-island Thin Films}, author = {I-Hung Ting}, year = {2012}, keywords = {surface plasmon effect, extinction, silver island}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11617/}, abstract = { For wide-spread use and large-scale implementation of photovoltaic (PV) modules, a major improvement has to be made in both energy conversion efficiency and manufacturing cost. Improving light absorption, on both spatial and spectral domains, is a critical requirement in most PV cell designs. In thin-film solar cells, in particular, light usually is not completely absorbed in single pass transmission through the active layer, therefore proper ?management? of incident photons is particularly important. Plasmonic nanostructures can play a versatile role in mediating light-matter interactions, e.g., enhancing the scattering cross-sections (metal nanoparticles), concentrating the near field intensity (metal corners and nanoapertures) and coupling of light into waveguide modes (nanogratings), potentially beneficial for enhancing light absorption. In the study, optical properties of metal island thin films were characterized. Metal nano-islands were formed by performing thermal annealing of Ag films deposited on silica surface. The optical transmission, reflection, and extinction characteristics were analyzed for various incident angles as a function of film thickness and anneal temperature. The metal island formation is correlated to the evolution of transmission spectra, which involves surface plasmon resonance. } } @unpublished{pittir13242, month = {October}, title = {Politics and the Effectiveness of Humanitarian Aid}, author = {Daniel C. Tirone}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Foreign Aid Humanitarian Aid Civil Conflict Non-Governmental Organizations International Relations}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13242/}, abstract = {Does the source of Non-Government Organization (NGO) funding affect how effective these groups may be in achieving their goals? Some organizations and scholars argue that accepting funds from governments and other political entities reduces their autonomy and makes it more difficult for them to operate in politically sensitive areas. In contrast, other groups happily accept funds from these governmental sources. This project examines the efficacy of humanitarian NGOs as a function of their funding sources, with a particular focus on civil conflict. I argue that due to differences in the incentives and ability of private and public donors to hold NGOs accountable for their activities, organizations which receive funding primarily from private donors are less accountable than are organizations which receive funds primarily from public donors. Due to these differences in accountability, I further argue that publicly funded NGOs should be more effective in achieving their goals than privately funded organizations. This argument is tested using an original dataset on the activities of three of the most prominent humanitarian NGOs for the period from 2004-2007, and finds that publicly funded organizations do in fact exhibit greater levels of aid effectiveness than privately funded organizations. Furthermore, there is some evidence that aid from privately funded organizations may in fact make crises worse, rather than improving them. The results of this study have implications not only for scholars interested in aid efficacy organizations and scholars, but most importantly for the individuals whom they seek to assist, whose lives and welfare critically depend on effective and efficient assistance. } } @unpublished{pittir10588, month = {January}, title = {Maternal Obesity, Nutritional Status and Hyperglycemia}, author = {Laura Tomedi}, year = {2012}, keywords = {gestational diabetes, obesity, nutrition, maternal hyperglycemia, pregnancy}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10588/}, abstract = {Maternal hyperglycemia is a common condition with a profound effect on prenatal and maternal health. We used two complementing cohorts to estimate the associations between: 1) gestational weight gain (GWG), adiposity distribution, and maternal hyperglycemia; 2) pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) and an array of maternal nutritional biomarkers; and 3) maternal vitamin D status and maternal hyperglycemia. In the Study of Nutrition and Pregnancy (SNAP), biceps and triceps skinfolds and waist circumference were measured at {\ensuremath{<}}13 weeks gestation and 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations were measured at {\ensuremath{<}}16 weeks gestation. Serial weight measurements and post-load glucose concentrations were abstracted from medical records. Because a full array of nutritional biomarkers was not available in SNAP, we also used the Antidepressant Use During Pregnancy (ADUP) study. In ADUP, height and nutritional biomarkers were measured and pre-pregnancy weight was self-reported at {$\leq$} 20 weeks gestation. In the SNAP study, each 0.3-kg/week increase in first trimester GWG rate was associated with a 2.2 (95\% CI: 0.1, 4.3)-mg/dl increase in glucose concentration and each 8.6-mm increase in biceps skinfold thickness and 11.7-mm increase in triceps skinfold thickness was associated with a 4.3 (95\% CI: 0.2, 8.5)-mg/dl increases in glucose. In the ADUP study, principal component analysis of the biomarkers resulted in an EFA component, a Micronutrient component, and a Carotenoid component. Obese pregnant women were 3.0 (95\% CI: 1.1, 7.7) times as likely of being in the lowest tertile of the EFA component and 4.5 (95\% CI: 1.7, 12.3) times as likely of being in the lowest tertile of the Carotenoid component as their lean counterparts. Among non-smokers in SNAP, each 21-nmol/L increase in serum 25(OH)D was associated with a 4.1 (95\% CI: 0.9, 7.2)-mg/dl increase in maternal post-load glucose concentration. Among smokers, each 21-nmol/L increase in serum 25(OH)D was associated with a 7.3-(95\% CI: 11.4, 3.1) mg/dl decrease in maternal post-load glucose concentration after confounder adjustment. This dissertation is important to public health because hyperglycemia has a major impact on the health of mothers and infants and these data may lead to nutritional interventions that are safe, inexpensive, and acceptable to women.} } @incollection{pittir13373, booktitle = {Designing Online Learning: A Primer for Librarians}, editor = {Susan Alman and Margaret Lincoln and Christinger Tomer}, title = {Learning Management Systems}, author = {Christinger Tomer}, publisher = {Libraries Unlimited}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13373/} } @inproceedings{pittir19175, booktitle = {Library 2.012}, month = {October}, title = {Open Source Options for Digital Curation}, author = {Christinger Tomer}, year = {2012}, keywords = {digital, curation, open, source, software}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19175/} } @inproceedings{pittir19176, booktitle = {Library 2.012}, month = {October}, title = {Open Source Systems for Libraries}, author = {Christinger Tomer}, year = {2012}, keywords = {integrated, online, library, systems, digital, repositories, digital, archives, digital, curation, open, source, software}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19176/} } @unpublished{pittir13036, month = {September}, title = {L2 Acquisition of Mandarin Zai and -Le}, author = {Xiner Tong}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Mandarin Chinese, L2 Acquisition, Aspect Hypothesis, Default Past Tense Hypothesis, Lexical Insensitivity Hypothesis}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13036/}, abstract = {The Aspect Hypothesis (AH) has been well attested in research on L1 and L2 acquisition of Indo-European languages such as English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish (e.g., Li \& Shirai, 2000). However, studies to test the AH in the L2 acquisition of Chinese have been scarce (Jin \& Hendriks, 2005). Among the studies done of L2 acquisition of Mandarin Chinese, previous research (e.g., Duff \& Li, 2002; Jin \& Hendriks, 2005) has confirmed the AH (Andersen \& Shirai, 1994) in L2 acquisition of the aspects, including -zhe, -le, zai, -guo. Almost all previous studies used free production of the learners. The use of strictly controlled production is rare. The present study fills the gap. The present study investigates the acquisition of Mandarin aspect markers zai and -le by L2 learners of Mandarin Chinese. In two judgment tests, participants judged the use of progressive zai and perfective -le in three contexts (obligatory, incorrect, and optional). Both of the two predictions of the AH were tested: 1) Association Prediction (AP): for L2 learners, the association between progressive aspect marker zai with activity verbs is stronger than that between zai with accomplishment verbs, which in turn is stronger than that between zai and achievement verbs; the association between perfective aspect marker -le with accomplishment verbs and achievement verbs is stronger than that between -le and activity verbs, which in turn is stronger than that between -le and stative verbs. 2) Developmental Prediction (DP): learners of lower proficiency level would use progressive zai and perfective -le in a more prototypical way than learners of higher proficiency level, i.e. lower proficiency learners use progressive zai with activity verbs more than higher proficiency learners, and lower proficiency learners use perfective -le with accomplishment and achievement verbs more than higher proficiency learners. Meanwhile, higher-level students extend the use of progressive zai to accomplishment and achievement verbs, and extend the use of perfective -le to activity verbs. Although previous research has shown that L2 acquisition of Mandarin aspect markers confirm the two predictions of the Aspect Hypothesis, none of the conclusions were based on a controlled production.} } @unpublished{pittir10620, month = {February}, title = {WRIST BIOMECHANICS AND ULTRASONOGRAPHIC MEASURES OF THE MEDIAN NERVE DURING COMPUTER KEYBOARDING}, author = {Kevin K Toosi}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Biomechanics; Carpal Tunnel Syndrome; Median Nerve; Ultrasonography; Ultrasound; Keyboarding}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10620/}, abstract = {Keyboarding is a highly repetitive daily task and has been linked to musculoskeletal disorders of the upper extremity. However, the effect of keyboarding on median nerve injuries is not well understood. The purpose of this study was to determine whether continuous keyboarding can cause acute changes in the median nerve and whether these changes are correlated with wrist biomechanics during keyboarding. Ultrasound images of the median nerve from forty healthy volunteers were captured at the levels of the pisiform and distal radius prior to and following a prolonged keyboarding task (i.e., one hour of continuous keyboarding). Images were analyzed by a blinded investigator to quantify the median nerve characteristics. Changes in the median nerve ultrasonographic measures as a result of continuous keyboarding task were evaluated and compared to the hand and wrist biomechanical variables, which were collected simultaneously. Cross-sectional areas at the pisiform level were significantly larger in both dominant and non-dominant hands following the keyboarding task. Swelling ratio was also significantly greater in both hands after 30 and 60 minutes of keyboarding when compared to the baseline measures. Both cross-sectional area and swelling ratio, however, decreased after 30 minutes of manual rest. These acute changes were positively correlated to biomechanical variables of wrist, including wrist flexion and tendon travel. We were able to detect acute changes in the median nerve ultrasound characteristics following one hour of computer keyboarding. These changes were significantly correlated to the wrist biomechanics. The findings suggest that keyboarding has an impact on the median nerve. Further studies are required to understand this relationship, which would provide insight into the pathophysiology of median neuropathies such as carpal tunnel syndrome.} } @unpublished{pittir10978, month = {July}, title = {PREFRONTAL CONTROL OF PREPARATORY ATTENTION AND COORDINATION WITH THE VENTRAL TEGMENTAL AREA}, author = {Nelson / K. B. Totah}, year = {2012}, keywords = {ADHD, catecholamine, cognition, distraction, expectancy, functional connectivity, network, schizophrenia, synchrony}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10978/}, abstract = {Preparatory attention selects upcoming stimuli that will be used to guide behavior. This cognitive faculty is controlled by the prefrontal cortex (PFC), which primes sensory cortex neurons that represent the stimulus. Lesion studies have implicated multiple PFC regions in the control of attention, including the rat prelimbic cortex (PL) and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). The first aim of this dissertation was to characterize and compare neural activity in these regions during a preparatory attention task. The second aim was to assess interactions between these regions during preparatory attention. Coordinated activity between the PL and ACC was studied by measuring spike synchrony with local field potential (LFP) oscillations. The third aim was to study neural activity in the ventral tegmental area (VTA), which provides dopamine projections to the PFC that are known to modulate PFC control of attention. The nature of VTA neural activity during attention and its coordination with the PFC has not been characterized. In order to study PFC and VTA neural activity during preparatory attention, we recorded single unit spiking and LFP and primarily focused analysis on the pre-stimulus period, when a preparatory attention control signal is generated by PFC neurons. The rat was trained to orient to a wall of three stimulus ports, expect a brief illumination at one of the ports, and make a response into the illuminated port. While the timing of stimulus onset was predictable, the location varied randomly. These task characteristics resulted in error trials in which the rat responded to an incorrect port. The analyses of pre-stimulus neural activity compared correct and error trials. We observed a sustained change in PFC single unit firing rate during the pre-stimulus period. The sustained firing patterns were predictive of attentional accuracy, in that the sustained activity was reduced during error trials. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the PL and ACC interacted during preparatory attention. We also observed sustained activity in the VTA, which may stabilize sustained PFC activity during preparatory attention. VTA spiking correlated with ACC gamma (40 Hz) oscillations, which may be used to communicate the attention control signal from the PFC to sensory cortex.} } @unpublished{pittir10778, month = {January}, title = {EXPLORING CONNECTIONS BETWEEN SOCIAL, CIVIC, AND EDUCATION ORGANIZATION: AN HISTORICAL CASE STUDY OF THREE KEY FIGURES IN THE NEW YORK CITY COMMUNITY CONTROL MOVEMENT, 1966-1968}, author = {Keith W. Trahan}, year = {2012}, keywords = {social theory community control sociology of education Albert Shanker Preston Wilcox John V. Lindsey}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10778/}, abstract = {Schools serve both to connect and separate people within society. Therefore, the landscape of school reform presents an opportunity to explicate the opposing forces of connectedness and competition that are entrenched in twenty-first century society. It can serve as a laboratory in which to study foundational social issues. This study is an historical analysis of school reform conflict through a lens of social theory. The theoretical framework of this study explicates the connectedness of social, civic, and educational organization; aspects of social organization transfer into the civic sphere through politics of recognition, leading to competing ideas about social responsibility and liberalism. This dynamic forms a foundation for school reform conflict, particularly in an education paradigm steeped in competition and advantage. The New York City community control conflict of the late 1960s is an example of deeply rooted contestation between social groups and its impact on school reform. The conflict was a complicated conflict among parents, teachers, community members, policy makers, and academics that approached the issues from different social perspectives. This study places the community control conflict within broader social context, explicating foundational differences in social perspective that inhibit school reform. The study focuses on the works of three major figures involved in the conflict: Albert Shanker, teachers? union leader; Preston Wilcox, academic theorist, community organizer, and adviser to the community control group; and John Lindsay, New York City Mayor from 1966-1973. This study explores the key figures? social perspectives in relation to the socio-political goals of the community control movement, the teachers? union, and policy makers. This study illustrates how people engaged in reform efforts often contend with a complex matrix of social group connections, yielding dilemmas and contradictions between beliefs and actions. Historical research can provide insight into complex social struggles at the heart of school reform conflict. When that which is deemed best for oneself and those closest to them often conflicts with what is best for social groups with which they identify and support. Such studies can shed light on underlying and recurring social problems that continuously thwart school reform.} } @article{pittir13293, month = {July}, title = {Evaluating tag-based information access in image collections}, author = {C Trattner and YL Lin and D Parra and Z Yue and W Real and P Brusilovsky}, year = {2012}, pages = {113 -- 122}, journal = {HT'12 - Proceedings of 23rd ACM Conference on Hypertext and Social Media}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13293/}, abstract = {The availability of social tags has greatly enhanced access to information. Tag clouds have emerged as a new "social" way to find and visualize information, providing both one-click access to information and a snapshot of the "aboutness" of a tagged collection. A range of research projects explored and compared different tag artifacts for information access ranging from regular tag clouds to tag hierarchies. At the same time, there is a lack of user studies that compare the effectiveness of different types of tag-based browsing interfaces from the users point of view. This paper contributes to the research on tag-based information access by presenting a controlled user study that compared three types of tag-based interfaces on two recognized types of search tasks - lookup and exploratory search. Our results demonstrate that tag-based browsing interfaces significantly outperform traditional search interfaces in both performance and user satisfaction. At the same time, the differences between the two types of tag-based browsing interfaces explored in our study are not as clear. Copyright 2012 ACM.} } @unpublished{pittir6220, month = {January}, title = {AN ASSESSMENT OF LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES IN PENNSYLVANIA?S COMMUNITY COLLEGES }, author = {Brenda S. Trettel}, year = {2012}, keywords = {leadership skills, leadership competencies}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/6220/}, abstract = {Due to the large number of retiring community college leaders and the lack of skilled replacements, it has been predicted that there will be community college leadership crisis. Educators question where these new leaders will emerge from, what skills they will have and will they be able to meet the leadership requirements of community college. This research study investigated the levels of leadership skills as perceived by mid-level Pennsylvania community colleges administrators and how they align with the AACC leadership competencies recommended for mid-level administrators to progress into senior community college leadership positions. Using leadership competencies recommended by the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), mid-level administrators were asked to assess their competency levels, the importance of the competency levels to their current position and if they felt they needed additional training to accomplish their career goals. In addition, mid-level administrators were asked about their career goals and the types of additional training they felt they needed to improve their leadership competency level and accomplish their career goals. } } @unpublished{pittir13236, month = {September}, title = {Human Papillomarvirus (HPV) and Lifestyle in the Translational Epidemiology of Head and Neck Cancer}, author = {Jesse Troy}, year = {2012}, keywords = {head and neck cancer, human papillomavirus, translational research}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13236/}, abstract = {Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) afflict 600,000 persons and cause 300,000 deaths annually worldwide. Recent changes in HNSCC epidemiology demonstrate the importance of disease heterogeneity in prevention and treatment. This research investigated heterogeneity in HNSCC pathobiology, etiology, and survival in three separate studies. In the first study, N=67 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded HNSCC (27 human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive, 40 HPV-negative) were retrieved from storage and expression of three tumor angiogenesis markers--epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and NOTCH receptor 1 (NOTCH1)--were compared according to HPV status using immunohistochemistry. HPV-positive tumors under-expressed EGFR relative to HPV-negative (P{\ensuremath{<}}0.01) but VEGF (P=0.82) and NOTCH1 (P=0.68) were unrelated to HPV status. EGFR-VEGF, and NOTCH1-VEGF associations were observed in HPV-negative tumors only; and the NOTCH1-EGFR association was observed in HPV-positive tumors only. HPV-positive HNSCC may be less angiogenic than HPV-negative HNSCC. The second study assessed the association between childhood passive smoke exposure (CPSE) and HNSCC using a case-control design (N=862 cases, N=806 frequency-matched controls). CPSE was associated with HNSCC (odds ratio (OR)=1.28, 95\% confidence interval (CI): 1.01-1.63) after controlling for adult smoking. Among never-adult-smokers (N=184 cases, N=415 controls) CPSE was associated with oropharyngeal cancer (which is typically HPV-related) more strongly than other HNSCC (OR=2.04, 95\% CI: 1.02-4.08 vs. OR=1.08, 95\% CI: 0.71-1.66; P-for-heterogeneity=0.08). Assuming a causal association, 16.9\% (95\% CI: 0.8\%-29.4\%) of HNSCC would not occur without CPSE. Limiting CPSE may reduce HNSCC risk. The third study assessed overall and disease-specific survival associated with metabolic enzyme genotype in N=159 HNSCC cases. After adjustment for tumor site and stage, N-acteyltransferase-2 (NAT2) fast acetylators had improved survival (vs. slow acetylators) when treated with surgery alone (hazard ratio (HR)=0.26; 95\% CI: 0.10-0.66) but not chemoradiotherapy (HR=1.21; 95\% CI: 0.54-2.73) or radiotherapy (HR=0.67; 95\% CI: 0.31-1.59) (P-for-interaction=0.04). Reduced activity glutathione S-transferase pi-1 (GSTP1) was associated with improved disease-specific survival in men only (HR=0.12; 95\% CI: 0.02-0.91; women: HR=2.29; 95\% CI=0.41-12.69; P-for-interaction=0.02). Metabolic enzyme genotype modifies HNSCC survival. This research contributes to public health by demonstrating biological differences in HNSCC exploitable for therapy; encouraging public policy to reduce HNSCC incidence; and supporting individualized therapy.} } @article{pittir38850, volume = {2012}, title = {Radially Symmetric Solutions of}, author = {William C. Troy and Edward P. Krisner}, publisher = {Hindawi Limited}, year = {2012}, pages = {1--34}, journal = {International Journal of Differential Equations}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/38850/}, abstract = {We investigate solutions of and focus on the regime and . Our advance is to develop a technique to efficiently classify the behavior of solutions on , their maximal positive interval of existence. Our approach is to transform the nonautonomous equation into an autonomous ODE. This reduces the problem to analyzing the phase plane of the autonomous equation. We prove the existence of new families of solutions of the equation and describe their asymptotic behavior. In the subcritical case there is a well-known closed-form singular solution, , such that as and as . Our advance is to prove the existence of a family of solutions of the subcritical case which satisfies for infinitely many values . At the critical value there is a continuum of positive singular solutions, and a continuum of sign changing singular solutions. In the supercritical regime we prove the existence of a family of ?super singular? sign changing singular solutions.} } @unpublished{pittir11544, month = {July}, title = {The Mcm2-7 Replicative Helicase is Essential to Coordinate DNA replication, Checkpoint Regulation and Sister Chromatid Cohesion}, author = {Feng-Ling Tsai}, year = {2012}, keywords = {DNA replication S-phase checkpoint Sister chromatid cohesion Mcm2-7}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11544/}, abstract = {DNA replication is a complex and highly regulated cellular process that ensures faithful duplication of the entire genome. To prevent genomic instability, several additional processes are coordinated with DNA replication. Eukaryotic cells employ a conserved surveillance mechanism called the S-phase checkpoint to activate a phosphorylation cascade while encountering DNA damage during DNA replication. In addition, DNA replication must also coordinate with sister chromatid cohesion, so that sister DNAs emerged from the forks are physically connected until chromosomal segregation takes place. Mcm2-7, the eukaryotic replicative helicase that unwinds dsDNA and positions at the vanguard of the replication fork, is likely the commonality among these cellular processes. In my thesis work, I find that ATP hydrolysis in one specific active site (Mcm6/2) is required to mediate DNA replication checkpoint response, sister chromatid cohesion and DNA replication initiation. Further examination reveals that a subcircuit of the checkpoint pathway including MEC1 and MRC1 and ends with Mcm2-7 is required to mediate sister chromatid cohesion. Finally, misregulation of these processes causes genomic instability and likely missegregation of chromosomes. My findings lead to a model that the regulation of ATP hydrolysis at the Mcm6/2 active site by Mrc1 modulates Mcm2/5 gate open and gate closure during initiation, DNA damage and sister chromatid cohesion.} } @inproceedings{pittir26114, booktitle = {Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences Grad Expo}, month = {March}, title = {Consonant and Tone Interaction in Cantonese}, author = {Holman Tse}, year = {2012}, note = {Awarded Outstanding Presentation Award}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/26114/}, abstract = {In this presentation, I discuss results from a statistical analysis of the acoustic properties of the speech of six native speakers of Cantonese. The particular research question investigated was whether or not tone in Cantonese has an effect on a property known as Voice Onset Time (VOT), a measurement of the duration of what are known as "stop" consonants, and whether this effect is purely a phonetic consequence of how tonal distinctions are produced or whether these effects are mediated by abstract tonal categories. Previous research examining the relationship between tone and VOT in other languages (including Mandarin, Hakka, Shanghainese, Taiwanese, Mazatec, and Kera) has shown mixed results. The study presented here contributes to this research literature by adding Cantonese to the list of tonal languages that have already been investigated. Results from an ANOVA test on the Cantonese data showed that there is a statistically significant effect (p} } @inproceedings{pittir26113, booktitle = {Workshop on Innovations in Cantonese Linguistics (WICL)}, month = {March}, title = {Lexical Tone Effects on Voice Onset Time in Cantonese}, author = {Holman Tse}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/26113/}, abstract = {This study investigates the effects of lexical tone on the Voice Onset Time (VOT) of prevocalic stops in Cantonese. Previous studies that have examined the relationship between tone and VOT include studies on Mandarin and Hakka (Chen et al 2009), Shanghainese (King and Schieffer 1990), Taiwanese (Lai 2004), Mazatec (Herrera 2003), and Kera (Pearce 2009). These studies have shown mixed results. Research on more languages is needed in order to determine whether or not any cross-linguistic generalizations can be made. For the present study, the specific research questions to be addressed are (1) Does tone have an effect on VOT in Cantonese?; (2) If so, what kind of an effect does it have?; and (3) Is this effect purely an automatic articulatory consequence of F0 modulation or is this effect also mediated by lexical tone and hence a potential cue that contributes towards maintaining phonological contrasts between different tonal categories? To address these questions, the speech of 6 native speakers (5 male and 1 female) of Hong Kong Cantonese was examined. All recordings were made in a sound proof room. The subjects were all students at a US university at the time of recording. A total of 80 tokens of words contrasting in tone and aspiration were analyzed for each speaker for a grand total of 480 tokens. Results from an ANOVA test showed that there is a statistically significant effect (p} } @unpublished{pittir25963, title = {Lexical Tone vs. F0 Effects on VOT in Cantonese}, author = {Holman Tse}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/25963/}, abstract = {This study investigates the effects of lexical tone on the Voice Onset Time (VOT) of prevocalic stops in Cantonese. It builds on literature showing how various factors affect VOT without a resultant loss in phonological contrast and also ties in a body of research on tone and consonant interaction. The specific research questions addressed are (1) Does tone have an effect on VOT in Cantonese?; (2) If so, what kind of an effect does it have?; and (3) Is this effect purely an automatic articulatory consequence of F0 modulation or is this effect also mediated by lexical tone and hence a secondary cue that contributes towards maintaining phonological contrasts between different tonal categories? To address these questions, the speech of 6 native speakers (5 male and 1 female) of Hong Kong Cantonese was examined. A total of 80 tokens of words contrasting in tone and aspiration were analyzed for each speaker for a grand total of 480 tokens. Results from an ANOVA test showed that there is a statistically significant effect (p} } @inproceedings{pittir26115, booktitle = {Pittsburgh Somali Bantu Cultural Celebration}, month = {October}, title = {Research on the Kizigua Language}, author = {Holman Tse}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/26115/} } @unpublished{pittir13539, month = {August}, title = {The Influence of Exercise Dose, Exercise Intensity, and Weight Loss and Change in C-Reactive Protein in Sedentary Overweight Women}, author = {Patrica K Tuite and Lora Burke and Paul Coen and Richard Henker and John Jakicic}, year = {2012}, keywords = {exercise, physical activity, women, obesity, c-reactive protein}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13539/}, abstract = {Objective: To examine the effect physical activity included in a weight loss program has on high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels in sedentary overweight women. Design, Setting, and Participants: This study examined the change in hs-CRP in overweight and obese women in response to a 6 month behavioral weight loss program. The parent study was a randomized trial involving 201 sedentary overweight women who participated in a weight control program, with data from 182 subjects available for this secondary analysis. Methods: Participants were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 exercise groups based on energy expenditure (1000kcal/week or 2000 kcal/week) and intensity (vigorous vs. moderate). Groups included: vigorous intensity/high dose; vigorous intensity/moderate dose; moderate intensity/moderate dose; and moderate intensity/high dose. Participants were prescribed an energy restricted diet consisting of 1200 kcal/day or 1500 kcal/day and daily dietary fat intake between 20\%-30\% of total energy intake. Results: There were no statistically significant differences between dose of exercise, moderate vs. high, (F=0.330, p=0.58) or level of intensity, moderate vs. vigorous (F=0.118, p=0.731) for change in hs-CRP. However, there was a significant decrease in hs-CRP from baseline to 6 months (F=25.553, p{\ensuremath{<}}0.0004); there was a significant 3 way interaction between energy expenditure, intensity, and Pre/Post differences (F=4.035, p=0.035), post hoc analysis revealed a significant decrease in hs-CRP in the moderate/high (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.0004) and vigorous/moderate groups (p=004). The results were unchanged after controlling for the change in body weight, body fatness, or body distribution. The change in hs-CRP was not significantly correlated with the change in body weight, percent body fat, waist circumference, or self-reported physical activity. hs-CRP at 6 months was correlated with 6 month measures of weight, BMI, percent body fat, and fat distribution (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.0004). Conclusions: hs-CRP was reduced in overweight and obese women in response to a 6 month weight loss intervention that included a prescribed reduction in energy intake and a prescribed increase in exercise with a significant reduction in the moderate intensity/high dose and vigorous intensity/moderate dose groups. Further research is needed to determine what effect exercise and or weight loss may have on markers of inflammation. } } @unpublished{pittir11913, month = {July}, title = {Cross-language similarity in L2 processing: An eye-tracking study}, author = {Alba Tuninetti}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Second language acquisition, L2 processing, cross-language similarity, syntax}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11913/}, abstract = {How do second language (L2) learners process L2 syntax? Using online (eye-tracking) and offline (grammaticality judgment) measures, this study examined how L2 learners of English process grammaticality in syntactic structures that were formed similarly, differently, or uniquely in L1 and L2. Native Arabic and native Mandarin Chinese speakers who were studying English as an L2 read grammatical and ungrammatical English sentences. Their reading behavior was compared to that of monolingual English speakers. L2 learners showed native-like processing of the syntactic violations compared to the native English speakers at some measures, but also demonstrated modulations in how sensitive they were to the violations based on similarity condition and cue strength. These results provide important considerations for models of L2 acquisition and bilingualism, such as the Unified Competition Model (MacWhinney, 2005) and the Shallow Structure Hypothesis (Clahsen \& Felser, 2006).} } @article{pittir29815, volume = {11}, number = {1}, month = {December}, title = {Understanding intra-neighborhood patterns in PM{\ensuremath{<}}inf{\ensuremath{>}}2.5{\ensuremath{<}}/inf{\ensuremath{>}} and PM {\ensuremath{<}}inf{\ensuremath{>}}10{\ensuremath{<}}/inf{\ensuremath{>}} using mobile monitoring in Braddock, PA}, author = {BJ Tunno and KN Shields and P Lioy and N Chu and JB Kadane and B Parmanto and G Pramana and J Zora and C Davidson and F Holguin and JE Clougherty}, year = {2012}, journal = {Environmental Health: A Global Access Science Source}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29815/}, abstract = {Background: Braddock, Pennsylvania is home to the Edgar Thomson Steel Works (ETSW), one of the few remaining active steel mills in the Pittsburgh region. An economically distressed area, Braddock exceeds average annual ({\ensuremath{>}}15 {\ensuremath{\mu}}g/m{\S}ssup{\S}3{\S}esup{\S}) and daily ({\ensuremath{>}}35 {\ensuremath{\mu}}g/ m{\S}ssup{\S}3{\S}esup{\S}) National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for particulate matter (PM2.5). Methods. A mobile air monitoring study was designed and implemented in morning and afternoon hours in the summer and winter (2010-2011) to explore the within-neighborhood spatial and temporal (within-day and between-day) variability in PM2.5 and PM10. Results: Both pollutants displayed spatial variation between stops, and substantial temporal variation within and across study days. For summer morning sampling runs, site-specific mean PM2.5 ranged from 30.0 (SD = 3.3) to 55.1 (SD = 13.0) {\ensuremath{\mu}}g/m{\S}ssup{\S}3{\S}esup{\S}. Mean PM10 ranged from 30.4 (SD = 2.5) to 69.7 (SD = 51.2) {\ensuremath{\mu}}g/m{\S}ssup{\S}3{\S}esup{\S}, respectively. During summer months, afternoon concentrations were significantly lower than morning for both PM 2.5 and PM10, potentially owing to morning subsidence inversions. Winter concentrations were lower than summer, on average, and showed lesser diurnal variation. Temperature, wind speed, and wind direction predicted significant variability in PM2.5 and PM10 in multiple linear regression models. Conclusions: Data reveals significant morning versus afternoon variability and spatial variability in both PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations within Braddock. Information obtained on peak concentration periods, and the combined effects of industry, traffic, and elevation in this region informed the design of a larger stationary monitoring network. {\copyright} 2012 Tunno et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir14304, volume = {36}, number = {3}, month = {May}, author = {MW Turk and SM Sereika and K Yang and LJ Ewing and M Hravnak and LE Burke}, title = {Psychosocial correlates of weight maintenance among black \& white adults}, journal = {American Journal of Health Behavior}, pages = {395 -- 407}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14304/}, abstract = {Objectives: To investigate (1) weight maintenance among black and white participants and (2) psychosocial correlates (eg, healthy eating barriers, self-efficacy, stress) of weight maintenance 18 months after behavioral weight-loss treatment. Methods: Linear and logistic regression examined weight change and unsuccessful weight maintenance ({\ensuremath{>}}5\% weight gain) among 107 black and white adults. Results: After controlling for socio-demographics, differences in weight maintenance between ethnicities were not generally noted. Healthy eating barriers and stressful life events were associated with weight gain, P{\ensuremath{<}}.04. Conclusions: Strategies to cope with stressful events and overcome barriers to eating healthfully are needed for weight maintenance among both ethnicities.} } @inproceedings{pittir30152, volume = {586}, number = {3}, month = {February}, author = {YY Tyurina and MA Tungekar and MY Jung and VA Tyurin and JS Greenberger and DA Stoyanovsky and VE Kagan}, title = {Mitochondria targeting of non-peroxidizable triphenylphosphonium conjugated oleic acid protects mouse embryonic cells against apoptosis: Role of cardiolipin remodeling}, journal = {FEBS Letters}, pages = {235 -- 241}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/30152/}, abstract = {Peroxidation of cardiolipin in mitochondria is essential for the execution of apoptosis. We suggested that integration of oleic acid into cardiolipin generates non-oxidizable cardiolipin species hence protects cells against apoptosis. We synthesized mitochondria-targeted triphenylphosphonium oleic acid ester. Using lipidomics analysis we found that pretreatment of mouse embryonic cells with triphenylphosphonium oleic acid ester resulted in decreased contents of polyunsaturated cardiolipins and elevation of its species containing oleic acid residues. This caused suppression of apoptosis induced by actinomycin D. Triacsin C, an inhibitor of acyl-CoA synthase, blocked integration of oleic acid into cardiolipin and restored cell sensitivity to apoptosis. {\copyright} 2012 Federation of European Biochemical Societies. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.} } @unpublished{pittir13491, month = {October}, title = {DESIGN, SYNTHESIS AND APPLICATION OF VISIBLE AND NEAR INFRARED LUMINESCENT LANTHANIDE COMPLEXES: FROM SMALL MOLECULES TO MACROMOLECULES}, author = {Hyounsoo Uh}, year = {2012}, keywords = {lanthanide, luminescence, coordination, dendrimer, imaging}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13491/}, abstract = {Luminescent lanthanide complexes have great potential for practical applications such as fluoroimmunoassay, polymer-based optical signal amplifiers, active materials in lasers and bio-imaging. Interest in the lanthanide cations as luminescent probes stems from their unique photophysical properties such as sharp emission bands, photostability and long luminescence lifetimes. In order to generate a sufficient number of photons allowing sensitive detection, lanthanide cations must be sensitized with suitable antennae that possess the appropriate electronic structure and that can sufficiently protect the cation from high energy vibrations to prevent the non-radiative deactivation of the lanthanide luminescence. In this thesis, it has been demonstrated that a series of salophen derivatives can be used as an efficient sensitizer for near-infrared emitting lanthanide cations, and derivatives of naphthalimide-attached polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimers can be used as suitable ligands for visible and near infrared emitting lanthanide cations. These systems fulfill the requirements for lanthanide luminescence by forming stable coordination with lanthanide cations, protecting lanthanide cations from non-radiative deactivation and having suitable energy levels for efficient energy transfer to specific lanthanide cations. By introducing functional groups on the surface of dendrimer complex, the physical and photophysical properties of the complex can be controlled. It has been demonstrated that the versatility of dendrimer-lanthanide complexes as backbones for a broad variety of applications.} } @article{pittir12695, volume = {7}, number = {6}, month = {June}, title = {Damage associated molecular pattern molecule-induced micrornas (DAMPmiRs) in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells}, author = {S Unlu and S Tang and EN Wang and I Martinez and D Tang and ME Bianchi and HJ Zeh and MT Lotze}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12695/}, abstract = {Endogenous damage associated molecular pattern molecules (DAMPs) released from necrotic, damaged or stressed cells are associated with an inflammatory response. Whether the microRNA (miR) expression signature of this response is different from that of a pathogen associated molecular pattern (PAMP)-stimulated inflammatory response is unknown. We report here that miR-34c and miR-214 are significantly expressed in fresh human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) exposed to DAMP-containing freeze-thaw lysates, or to conditioned media from serum-starved and glucose-deprived cells (p{\ensuremath{<}}6{$\times$}10-4 and p{\ensuremath{<}}3.7{$\times$}10-3), respectively. Interestingly, only miR-34c expression was differentially expressed in PBMCs exposed to freeze-thaw lysates or conditioned media from wildtype High Mobility Group B1 (HMGB1+/+) mouse embryonic fibroblast (MEF) cells, when compared to cultures exposed to lysates or conditioned media from HMGB1-/- MEFs. miR-155 expression in these cultures was negligible, but was significantly expressed in PBMCs stimulated with Lipopolysaccahride (LPS) or most other Toll-like receptor (TLR) ligands, making it the prototypic "PAMPmiR". Exposure to a damaged human colorectal carcinoma cell line lysate (HCT116) similarly resulted in increased miR-34c and miR-214 levels. When PBMCs were pre-transfected with anti-miR-34c and then exposed to lysate, expression levels of IKK{\ensuremath{\gamma}} mRNA, a putative target of miR-34c, increased, while protein levels of IKK{\ensuremath{\gamma}} in cultures transfected with a pre-miR-34c were abrogated. Levels of miR-34c expression (as well as pro-inflammatory cytokines, IL-1{\ensuremath{\beta}} and TNF{\ensuremath{\alpha}}) decreased when PBMC cultures were briefly pre-incubated with the K+ channel (inflammasome) inhibitor, glybenclamide, suggesting that inflammasome activation is upstream of miR-34c expression in response to DAMPs. Our findings demonstrate that a specific microRNA expression signature is associated with the inflammatory response to damaged/injured cells and carries implications for many acute and chronic inflammatory disorders. {\copyright} 2012 Unlu et al.} } @unpublished{pittir10659, month = {February}, title = {Intermediate Stable Phase Locked States In Oscillator Networks}, author = {Alexander Urban}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Nonlinear Dynamics, Computational Physics, Biological Physics, Theoretical Neuroscience}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10659/}, abstract = {The study of nonlinear oscillations is important in a variety of physical and biological contexts (especially in neuroscience). Synchronization of oscillators has been a problem of interest in recent years. In networks of nearest neighbor coupled oscillators it is possible to obtain synchrony between oscillators, but also a variety of constant phase shifts between 0 and pi. We coin these phase shifts intermediate stable phase-locked states. In neuroscience, both individual neurons and populations of neurons can behave as complex nonlinear oscillators. Intermediate stable phase-locked states are shown to be obtainable between individual oscillators and populations of identical oscillators.These intermediate stable phase-locked states may be useful in the construction of central pattern generators: autonomous neural cicuits responsible for motor behavior. In large chains and two-dimenional arrays of oscillators, intermediate stable phase-locked states provide a mechanism to produce waves and patterns that cannot be obtained in traditional network models. A particular pattern of interest is known as an anti-wave. This pattern corresponds to the collision of two waves from opposite ends of an oscillator chain. This wave may be relevant in the spinal central pattern generators of various fish. Anti-wave solutions in both conductance based neuron models and phase oscillator models are analyzed. It is shown that such solutions arise in phase oscillator models in which the nonlinearity (interaction function) contains both higher order odd and even Fourier modes. These modes are prominent in pairs of synchronous oscillators which lose stability in a supercritical pitchfork bifurcation. } } @article{pittir13243, volume = {7}, number = {7}, month = {July}, title = {Selective endothelial overexpression of arginase ii induces endothelial dysfunction and hypertension and enhances atherosclerosis in mice}, author = {BL Vaisman and KL Andrews and SML Khong and KC Wood and XL Moore and Y Fu and DM Kepka-Lenhart and SM Morris and AT Remaley and JPF Chin-Dusting}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13243/}, abstract = {Background: Cardiovascular disorders associated with endothelial dysfunction, such as atherosclerosis, have decreased nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability. Arginase in the vasculature can compete with eNOS for L-arginine and has been implicated in atherosclerosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of endothelial-specific elevation of arginase II expression on endothelial function and the development of atherosclerosis. Methodology/Principal Findings: Transgenic mice on a C57BL/6 background with endothelial-specific overexpression of human arginase II (hArgII) gene under the control of the Tie2 promoter were produced. The hArgII mice had elevated tissue arginase activity except in liver and in resident peritoneal macrophages, confirming endothelial specificity of the transgene. Using small-vessel myography, aorta from these mice exhibited endothelial dysfunction when compared to their non-transgenic littermate controls. The blood pressure of the hArgII mice was 17\% higher than their littermate controls and, when crossed with apoE -/- mice, hArgII mice had increased aortic atherosclerotic lesions. Conclusion: We conclude that overexpression of arginase II in the endothelium is detrimental to the cardiovascular system.} } @unpublished{pittir13468, month = {October}, title = {COLLABORATION AND CONTESTATION: THE VICTORIAN MULTIPLE-NARRATOR NOVEL}, author = {Alexandra Valint}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Victorian novel, multiple-narrator novel, narrative theory, Victorian narrators, omniscience, frame narratives}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13468/}, abstract = {This dissertation argues that the multiple-narrator structure enables unity and harmony among narrators rather than pursuing the perspectival splintering and cacophony that one might expect to rise from such a structure. The Victorian multiple-narrator novel, therefore, embodies a fantasy of smooth collaboration among a heterogeneous selection of narrators{--}including women and men, adults and children, working class and gentry{--}and thereby employs a liberal, though not quite democratic, integration of narrators. Although narrators may possess different backgrounds, interests, and beliefs, their narrations neatly support each other?s presentation of the facts; the multiple-narrator novel, therefore, provides a system by which to mobilize and collate facts{--}the fact being central to the Victorians? conception of knowledge. The dissertation?s opening chapter distinguishes the Victorians? multiple-narrator offerings from similar iterations in the eighteenth and early twentieth century. Successful and self-conscious collaboration{--}both in narrative and in plot{--}proves unique to the Victorian versions of this structure. By drawing attention to the similarities between the two narrators of Charles Dickens?s Bleak House, chapter two argues that the novel?s content and structure actualize the shift between the aristocratic woman of surface and the feminine domestic ideal of depth. Chapter three covers novels that utilize more than two narrators: Bram Stoker?s Dracula, Richard Marsh?s The Beetle, and Wilkie Collins?s The Moonstone and The Woman in White. In each novel, a foreign entity invades England, and the British respond with a narrative that counters the invader by creating a balance between the individual and the community. The quick switch{--}a sole, brief switch in narrators{--}in Robert Louis Stevenson?s Treasure Island and Juliana Ewing?s A Great Emergency is the purview of chapter four. The quick switch is the exception to my argument because it magnifies rather than minimizes the differences between narrators by using narrative as a form of punishment. As chapter five argues, the narrators in Emily Bront{\"e}?s Wuthering Heights and Anne Bront{\"e}?s The Tenant of Wildfell Hall differ in gender and status yet bond over the sharing of narrative, but while Lockwood and Nelly both desire distance and closure, Gilbert and Helen pursue exchange and closeness.} } @article{pittir33221, volume = {6}, number = {3}, month = {July}, author = {PCA Van Der Wel}, title = {Domain swapping and amyloid fibril conformation}, journal = {Prion}, pages = {211 -- 216}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/33221/}, abstract = {For several different proteins an apparent correlation has been observed between the propensity for dimerization by domain-swapping and the ability to aggregate into amyloid-like fibrils. Examples include the disease-related proteins beta2-microglobulin and transthyretin. This has led to proposals that the amyloid-formation pathway may feature extensive domain swapping. One possible consequence of such an aggregation pathway is that the resulting fibrils would incorporate structural elements that resemble the domain-swapped forms of the protein and, thus, reflect certain native-like structures or domain-interactions. In magic angle spinning solid-state NMR-based and other structural studies of such amyloid fibrils, it appears that many of these proteins form fibrils that are not native-like. Several fibrils instead have an in-register, parallel conformation, which is a common amyloid structural motif and is seen, for instance, in various prion fibrils. Such a lack of native structure in the fibrils suggests that the apparent connection between domain-swapping ability and amyloid-formation may be more subtle or complex than may be presumed at first glance. {\copyright} 2012 Landes Bioscience.} } @unpublished{pittir16883, month = {November}, title = {GOING FROM GOOD TO GREAT: A STUDY OF TEACHER INDUCTION PROGRAMS IN SOUTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA SCHOOL DISTRICTS}, author = {Johanna Vanatta}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Teacher Induction}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16883/}, abstract = {The purpose of this study was to focus on how school districts are incorporating effective teacher induction programs in their school districts. The goal of the study was to identify effective research based characteristics of teacher induction programs and investigate how these characteristics are or are not utilized in the school district?s teacher induction programs. The research questions assessed how public school districts located in Western Pennsylvania are utilizing research based strategies in their teacher induction programs. After an initial survey of 107 school districts in Allegheny, Westmoreland, and Butler counties, final participants were selected based on the number of new teacher hires in the 2012-2011 school year and the per capita student expenditures. Methods of final data collection were semi-structured interviews with district administrators responsible for the teacher induction program, and the administration of an electronic teacher survey consisting of open and closed ended questions. The interviews were recorded and transcribed to allow for content analysis. Key findings of the study indicate that time is an essential factor when administering and participating in teacher induction programs; teachers and administrators frequently have different perceptions of the content of teacher induction programs; and research based models are not utilized to the fullest extent within teacher induction programs.} } @unpublished{pittir6166, month = {February}, title = {Catalytic Asymmetric Aldol Equivalents for an Enantioselective Total Synthesis of Apoptolidin C}, author = {Thomas R. Vargo}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Organic Synthesis Natural Product}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/6166/}, abstract = {Apoptolidin C is a biologically active polypropionate macrolide isolated from the soil bacteria Nocardiopsis sp. The work presented herein highlights a novel approach to synthesizing the core of the natural product, apoptolidinone C, as well as a de-novo synthesis of the C9 sacharide. Our synthesis utilizes a catalytic asymmetric approach to the construction of the complex polypropionate arrays contained in apoptolidin through the use of our acyl halide-aldehyde cyclocondensation (AAC) reaction. Employing the AAC technology using cinchona alkaloid derived catalysts, as well as the complementary chiral aluminum catalysts, we have successfully demonstrated a catalytic and asymmetric synthesis of the aglycone core of apoptolidin C. In addition, we have demonstrated the asymmetric synthesis of the C9 saccharide from achiral starting materials.} } @inproceedings{pittir21835, booktitle = {Computers and Writing Conference}, month = {May}, title = {Authors, Readers, Code and Control in Online Texts}, author = {Annette Vee}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/21835/} } @inproceedings{pittir21708, booktitle = {The 26th Annual Meeting of the Society for Literature, Science, and the Arts (SLSA)}, month = {September}, title = {Code, Copyright, and Machinic Audiences}, author = {Annette Vee}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/21708/} } @inproceedings{pittir21834, booktitle = {Town Hall Presentation on Code and Literacy: Computers and Writing Conference}, month = {May}, title = {Coding Values}, author = {Annette Vee}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/21834/} } @article{pittir21697, editor = {Annette Vee and Mark Sample}, month = {October}, title = {Coding Values in The Role of Computational Literacy in Computers and Writing}, author = {Annette Vee}, year = {2012}, journal = {Enculturation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/21697/} } @article{pittir21698, editor = {Annette Vee and Mark Sample}, month = {October}, title = {Conclusion: The Role of Computational Literacy in Computers and Writing}, author = {Annette Vee}, year = {2012}, journal = {Enculturation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/21698/} } @article{pittir21702, volume = {13}, month = {February}, title = {More than a Local History: Interview with David Fleming, Author of From Form to Meaning.?}, author = {Annette Vee}, publisher = {George Mason University}, year = {2012}, journal = {Enculturation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/21702/} } @article{pittir21703, volume = {54}, number = {1}, month = {April}, author = {Annette Vee}, title = {Planned Obsolescence: Publishing, Technology and the Future of the Academy by Kathleen Fitzpatrick NYU Press, 2011, 245 + viii pp, ISBN 978-0-8147-2788-1}, publisher = {Wiley}, year = {2012}, journal = {Critical Quarterly}, pages = {119 -- 124}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/21703/} } @article{pittir21699, volume = {2}, month = {September}, title = {Text, Speech, Machine: Metaphors for Computer Code in the Law}, author = {Annette Vee}, publisher = {Computational Culture}, year = {2012}, journal = {Computational Culture: A Journal of Software Studies}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/21699/} } @inproceedings{pittir21707, booktitle = {Thomas R. Watson Conference}, month = {October}, title = {Making Scholarly Digital Labor Visible}, author = {Annette Vee and Kerry Alexis Banazek and Lauren Hall}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/21707/} } @inproceedings{pittir21837, booktitle = {Modern Language Association Conference}, month = {January}, title = {Composing New Partnerships in the Digital Humanities}, author = {Annette Vee and Matthew K Gold and Spencer Shaffner and Alex Reid}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/21837/} } @article{pittir21696, editor = {Annette Vee and Mark Sample}, month = {October}, title = {Introduction: The Role of Computational Literacy in Computers and Writing}, author = {Annette Vee and Mark Sample}, publisher = {George Mason University}, year = {2012}, journal = {Enculturation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/21696/} } @inproceedings{pittir21836, booktitle = {Conference on College Composition and Communication (CCCC)}, month = {March}, title = {Lifelogging, Learning, and the Labor Practices of Digital Pedagogy}, author = {Annette Vee and Madeleine Sorapure and Joanna Wolfe}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/21836/} } @unpublished{pittir10935, month = {January}, title = {Co-Infection Studies on Hepatitis C Virus and Malaria Parasite Liver Stages}, author = {Johna Veltre}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Hepatitis C, Hepatitis C Virus, Malaria, Plasmodium, Co-infection, parasite, CD-81, SR-B1, ApoE, HSPGs, HuH7, HuH7.5, Replicon 2-3-, Replicon 2-3+, HuH7.5.1}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10935/}, abstract = {Malaria and hepatitis C are infectious diseases that affect millions of people worldwide. These two diseases are caused by two different pathogens, Plasmodium parasite for malaria and hepatitis C virus (HCV) for hepatitis C, that share some similarities in their development within the hepatocytes of the liver. Co-infection of these two pathogens has largely remained unstudied, but due to epidemiological overlap, it is plausible that individuals can be afflicted with both malaria and hepatitis C. To date, it has been shown that Plasmodium parasites and HCV utilize four common host entry factors to gain entry into hepatocytes: Heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs), scavenger receptor-B1 (SR-B1), cluster of differentiation 81 (CD-81), and apolipoprotein E (apoE). ApoE incorporated into new HCV virions plays a key role in viral infectivity. In its entirety, our hypothesis states that given the increasing prevalence of hepatitis C in parts of the world where malaria is endemic, hepatitis C virus (HCV) and Plasmodium spp. Co-infections are a likely occurrence. In this case, it is plausible that co-infections with these pathogens will affect the replication of either pathogen during their liver stages. Furthermore, it is likely that Plasmodium parasites utilize claudin-1, occludin, and apoE host entry factors, which are important for HCV entry and ability to invade hepatocytes. Using an in vitro model of infection in liver derived HuH7 hepatoma cells, we hope to look at the overall affects theses pathogens have on one another through co-infection studies of P. berghei and HCV both together and individually. Furthermore, we hope to examine other host factors that HCV utilizes for entry into hepatocytes and their affect on Plasmodium entry during the liver stages of infection. This study is significant to public health to improve existing anti-malarial and hepatitis C treatments by intervening at the early stages of each pathogen?s development. By understanding how a pathogen enters, invades, and develops within a host, it is better understood how therapeutic drugs can target and decrease pathogenic development. } } @unpublished{pittir12071, month = {July}, title = {Complexity, Accuracy, and Fluency as Properties of Language Performance: The Development of Multiple Subsystems over Time and in Relation to Each Other}, author = {Mary Lou Vercellotti}, year = {2012}, keywords = {oral proficiency, ESL, English L2, L2 development}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12071/}, abstract = {Applied linguists have identified three components of second language (L2) performance: complexity, accuracy, and fluency (CAF) to measure L2 development. Many studies researching CAF found trade-off effects (in which a higher performance in one component corresponds to lower performance in another) during tasks, often in online oral language performance. Trade-off effects are attributed to the inability of the learner to simuletaneously attend to all components at the highest level possible. Although cross-sectional research has suggested that students at different proficiency levels sacrifice performance in one CAF area while improving in another, there has been little longitudinal research about CAF (Ortega \& Iberri-Shea, 2005). As such, previous research could not address if CAF grows linearly over time nor if the rate of CAF growth is the same for all learners. The current study explicitly addresses how language performance in CAF changes over L2 development in an instructed environment. This longitudinal study analyzed English L2 oral data from sixty-six students from Arabic, Chinese, and Korean language backgrounds over 3-9 months in the English Language Institute at the University of Pittsburgh. Elicited speeches were transcribed, coded, and assessed with three measures of structural complexity, a measure of lexical variety, two measures of accuracy, and three measures of fluency. The scores were then analyzed with hierarchical linear modeling (Singer \& Willett, 2003) to investigate how each student?s performance changed over time for each measure and to determine predictive variables. Although individual differences were found in initial scores (often proficiency differences, but not for all measures), growth trajectories were the same for all measures, except one grammatical complexity measure (length of AS unit) where slopes differed by gender. All measures showed growth, and only two measures (lexical variety and a mean length of fluent run) showed non-linear growth. Trade-off effects found in cross-sectional studies were not found in these longitudinal data even though within-individual and between-individual correlations were also calculated. Additionally, the results may suggest that instructed language performance growth is uniform, rather than along individual paths. The research also serves to evaluate the measures, which has research and pedagogical implications. } } @article{pittir16061, volume = {7}, number = {10}, month = {October}, title = {Dynamic Sensorimotor Planning during Long-Term Sequence Learning: The Role of Variability, Response Chunking and Planning Errors}, author = {T Verstynen and J Phillips and E Braun and B Workman and C Schunn and W Schneider}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16061/}, abstract = {Many everyday skills are learned by binding otherwise independent actions into a unified sequence of responses across days or weeks of practice. Here we looked at how the dynamics of action planning and response binding change across such long timescales. Subjects (N = 23) were trained on a bimanual version of the serial reaction time task (32-item sequence) for two weeks (10 days total). Response times and accuracy both showed improvement with time, but appeared to be learned at different rates. Changes in response speed across training were associated with dynamic changes in response time variability, with faster learners expanding their variability during the early training days and then contracting response variability late in training. Using a novel measure of response chunking, we found that individual responses became temporally correlated across trials and asymptoted to set sizes of approximately 7 bound responses at the end of the first week of training. Finally, we used a state-space model of the response planning process to look at how predictive (i.e., response anticipation) and error-corrective (i.e., post-error slowing) processes correlated with learning rates for speed, accuracy and chunking. This analysis yielded non-monotonic association patterns between the state-space model parameters and learning rates, suggesting that different parts of the response planning process are relevant at different stages of long-term learning. These findings highlight the dynamic modulation of response speed, variability, accuracy and chunking as multiple movements become bound together into a larger set of responses during sequence learning. {\copyright} 2012 Verstynen et al.} } @article{pittir14438, volume = {16}, month = {December}, title = {Genetic and environmental factors in human cleft lip and palate}, author = {AR Vieira}, year = {2012}, pages = {19 -- 31}, journal = {Frontiers of Oral Biology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14438/}, abstract = {Cleft lip and palate is the most common craniofacial birth defect and its etiology has been the focus of many reports in the literature. It is well accepted that both genetics and environment play a role in the condition, however we still have not been able to translate what have been learned into clinical applications. This paper provides an interpretation of the latest research findings in humans and a perspective for where the field is going. The latest effort in gene identification and the associations between isolated cleft lip and palate and the loci harboring IRF6 (1q32) and 8q24.21 are highlighted, as well as the latest insight from more sophisticated phenotypical characterization and the inclusion of covariables related to the environment in the analysis of genetic variation. Copyright {\copyright} 2012 S. Karger AG, Basel.} } @article{pittir17616, volume = {26}, number = {SPL. I}, month = {December}, author = {AR Vieira}, title = {Genetics and caries-prospects}, journal = {Brazilian Oral Research}, pages = {7 -- 9}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17616/}, abstract = {Caries remains the most prevalent non-contagious infectious disease in humans. It is clear that the current approaches to decrease the prevalence of caries in human populations, including water fluoridation and school-based programs, are not enough to protect everyone. The scientific community has suggested the need for innovative work in a number of areas in cariology, encompassing disease etiology, epidemiology, definition, prevention, and treatment. We have pioneered the work on genetic studies to identify genes and genetic markers of diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic value. This paper summarizes a presentation that elaborated on these initial findings.} } @article{pittir14429, month = {April}, title = {New directions in cariology research 2011}, author = {AR Vieira}, year = {2012}, journal = {International Journal of Dentistry}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14429/} } @article{pittir14433, volume = {158 A}, number = {6}, month = {June}, author = {AR Vieira and S Khaliq and B Lace}, title = {Risk of cancer in relatives of children born with isolated cleft lip and palate}, journal = {American Journal of Medical Genetics, Part A}, pages = {1503 -- 1504}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14433/} } @article{pittir17617, volume = {46}, number = {4}, month = {July}, author = {AR Vieira and A Modesto and A Ismail and R Watt}, title = {Summary of the IADR cariology research group symposium, barcelona, spain, july 2010: New directions in cariology research}, journal = {Caries Research}, pages = {346 -- 352}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17617/}, abstract = {Caries remains the most prevalent noncontagious biofilm-mediated disease in humans. It is clear that the current approaches to decrease the prevalence of caries in human populations, including water fluoridation and school-based programs, are not enough to protect everyone. The scientific community has suggested the need for innovative work in a number of areas in cariology, encompassing disease etiology, epidemiology, definition, prevention, and treatment. In this symposium, two of these areas, dealing specifically with etiological aspects of caries were discussed: (1) systematic research on caries risk assessment using population-based cohort techniques, and (2) genetic studies to identify genes and genetic markers of diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic value. This paper summarizes these presentations. Copyright {\copyright} 2012 S. Karger AG, Basel.} } @incollection{pittir17612, booktitle = {eLS}, title = {Genetics of congenital tooth agenesis}, author = {Alexandre R Vieira}, address = {Chichester}, publisher = {John Wiley \& Sons Ltd}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17612/} } @incollection{pittir17626, author = {Alexandre R Vieira and EC K{\"u}chler and JM Granjeiro and W Zambuzzi}, booktitle = {Dentistry in the adolescence}, editor = {PA Risso}, address = {S{\~a}o Paulo}, title = {Genetics and bioengineering in dentistry}, publisher = {Editora Santos}, pages = {259 -- 273}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17626/} } @article{pittir22277, volume = {30}, number = {2}, month = {June}, title = {ROLLING CONTRACT FORMATION AND THE U.C.C.?S APPROACH TO EMERGING COMMERCIAL PRACTICES}, author = {Andrew Vogeler}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of Law and Commerce}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22277/} } @article{pittir29920, volume = {7}, number = {S1}, month = {December}, author = {Jennifer Vomaske and Lisa Clepper and Janet Douglas and Liron Pantanowitz and Klaus Fruh and Ashlee V Moses}, title = {KSHV infection of endothelial cells manipulates CXCR7-mediated signaling: implications for Kaposi?s Sarcoma progression and intervention}, publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC}, journal = {Infectious Agents and Cancer}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29920/} } @article{pittir15972, volume = {8}, number = {1}, title = {Emerging communication technologies and the practices of enhanced deliberation: the experience of the Benjamin Franklin Transatlantic Fellows Summer Institute}, author = {AB Von Burg and Ron Von Burg and Gordon Mitchell and AD Louden}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of Public Deliberation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15972/} } @article{pittir11634, volume = {2012}, number = {1}, month = {March}, author = {Martin Votruba}, title = {Slovak Coalitions: Getting Glued to a Word}, publisher = {Slovak Studies Association, affiliated with ASEEES}, journal = {Slovak Studies Association Newsletter}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Slovakia, Slovak, politics, elections, zlepenec, post-communist, politics}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11634/}, abstract = {The word zlepenec ("glued-together hack job") developed from a technical term and a comment on a work of art into a highly politicized label. Difficulties with its translation stem partly in the difference between U.S. and British politics on the one hand, and the political systems in Continental Europe. Contrary to assumptions by commentators and experts, the word was first applied in politics decades ago, and was used to label parties at both ends of the political spectrum until circumstances and political strife made it stick as a disparaging label describing rightist party alliances.} } @article{pittir18577, volume = {8}, number = {3}, month = {March}, author = {VP Vysotskiy and LS Cederbaum and T Sommerfeld and VK Voora and KD Jordan}, title = {Benchmark calculations of the energies for binding excess electrons to water clusters}, journal = {Journal of Chemical Theory and Computation}, pages = {893 -- 900}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18577/}, abstract = {State-of-the-art ADC(2), EOM-EA-CCSD, and EOM-EA-CCSD(2) many-body methods are used to calculate the energies for binding an excess electron to selected water clusters up to (H 2O) 24 in size. The systems chosen for study include several clusters for which the Hartree-Fock method either fails to bind the excess electron or binds it only very weakly. The three theoretical methods are found to give similar values of the electron binding energies. The reported electron binding energies are the most accurate to date for such systems, and these results should prove especially valuable as benchmarks for testing model potential approaches for describing the interactions of excess electrons with water clusters and bulk water. {\copyright} 2012 American Chemical Society.} } @unpublished{pittir10955, month = {July}, title = {EXPLORING EXTRACELLULAR DOPAMINE CONCENTRATION AND ITS REGULATION ON DOPAMINE RELEASE BY VOLTAMMETRY}, author = {YUEXIANG WANG}, year = {2012}, keywords = {dopamine, voltammetry, microdialysis, autoinhibition, medial forebrain bundle, kynurenate, heterogeneity}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10955/}, abstract = {Extracellular dopamine (DA) is critical in regulating DA release as well as interacting with other neurotransmission systems. Microdialysis and voltammetry are the major techniques for extracellular DA measurement in vivo. These two techniques provide distinct results due to their different detection volumes. Carbon fiber microelectrode is 10,000 times smaller than that of a microdialysis probe. With such a small size, carbon fiber microelectrode provides a high spatial resolution and causes unobservable damage to the brain which paints a completely different picture of DA release in the brain as compared to the knowledge obtained by microdialysis. In Chapter I, with the high temporal and spatial resolution provided by carbon fiber microelectrode in conjunction with fast scan cyclic voltammetry (FSCV), we are able to detect DA terminal populations with different autoinhibition levels in rat striatum. We revealed a coupling between resting DA and local autoinhibition level. The recording sites with high resting DA concentration (micromolar) exhibit a high autoinhibition on evoked DA release induced by medial forebrain bundle (MFB) stimulation, and vice versa. These different types of DA release will never be observed by microdialysis due to its large dimension. On the contrary, microdialysis result is an average of all the DA release sites (high and low) that the microdialysis probe goes through. This averaging method could contribute to the low measurement of the DA concentration by microdialysis. In Chapter II, we examined the resting DA by a carbon fiber microelectrode at {\texttt{\char126}}200 micron away from a microdialysis probe. We found TTX-insensitive DA was decreased by microdialysis probe implantation. This reduction contributes to the low DA measurement by microdialysis. In Chapter III, we monitored evoked DA induced by MFB stimulation in the tissue near microdialysis probe. We found DA terminals near a microdialysis probe are hyper-sensitive to D2 receptor antagonist and DA transporter inhibitor. This suggests that the DA terminals in the tissue near microdialysis probe are under an altered neurochemical state with a loss of DA homeostasis.} } @article{pittir15600, volume = {7}, number = {7}, month = {July}, title = {Functional anatomy of the masking level difference, an fMRI study}, author = {DS Wack and JL Cox and CV Schirda and CR Magnano and JE Sussman and D Henderson and RF Burkard}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15600/}, abstract = {Introduction: Masking level differences (MLDs) are differences in the hearing threshold for the detection of a signal presented in a noise background, where either the phase of the signal or noise is reversed between ears. We use N0/N{\ensuremath{\pi}} to denote noise presented in-phase/out-of-phase between ears and S0/S{\ensuremath{\pi}} to denote a 500 Hz sine wave signal as in/out-of-phase. Signal detection level for the noise/signal combinations N0S{\ensuremath{\pi}} and N{\ensuremath{\pi}}S0 is typically 10-20 dB better than for N0S0. All combinations have the same spectrum, level, and duration of both the signal and the noise. Methods: Ten participants (5 female), age: 22-43, with N0S{\ensuremath{\pi}}-N0S0 MLDs greater than 10 dB, were imaged using a sparse BOLD fMRI sequence, with a 9 second gap (1 second quiet preceding stimuli). Band-pass (400-600 Hz) noise and an enveloped signal (.25 second tone burst, 50\% duty-cycle) were used to create the stimuli. Brain maps of statistically significant regions were formed from a second-level analysis using SPM5. Results: The contrast N{\ensuremath{\pi}}S0- N0S{\ensuremath{\pi}} had significant regions of activation in the right pulvinar, corpus callosum, and insula bilaterally. The left inferior frontal gyrus had significant activation for contrasts N0S{\ensuremath{\pi}}-N0S0 and N{\ensuremath{\pi}}S0-N0S0. The contrast N0S0-N0S{\ensuremath{\pi}} revealed a region in the right insula, and the contrast N0S0-N{\ensuremath{\pi}}S0 had a region of significance in the left insula. Conclusion: Our results extend the view that the thalamus acts as a gating mechanism to enable dichotic listening, and suggest that MLD processing is accomplished through thalamic communication with the insula, which communicate across the corpus callosum to either enhance or diminish the binaural signal (depending on the MLD condition). The audibility improvement of the signal with both MLD conditions is likely reflected by activation in the left inferior frontal gyrus, a late stage in the what/where model of auditory processing. {\copyright} 2012 Wack et al.} } @article{pittir15902, volume = {7}, number = {9}, month = {September}, title = {Variation in the Maternal Corticotrophin Releasing Hormone-Binding Protein (CRH-BP) Gene and Birth Weight in Blacks, Hispanics and Whites}, author = {PD Wadhwa and HN Simhan and S Entringer and C Buss and R Smith and CJ Hobel and N Farhana and L Shimmin and JE Hixson and CF Sing}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15902/}, abstract = {Background: Given the unique role of the corticotrophin-releasing hormone (CRH) system in human fetal development, the aim of our study was to estimate the association of birth weight with DNA sequence variation in three maternal genes involved in regulating CRH production, bioavailability and action: CRH, CRH-Binding Protein (CRH-BP), and CRH type 1 receptor (CRH-R1), respectively, in three racial groups (African-Americans, Hispanics, and non-Hispanic Whites). Methods: Our study was carried out on a population-based sample of 575 mother-child dyads. We resequenced the three genes in mouse-human hybrid somatic cell lines and selected SNPs for genotyping. Results: A significant association was observed in each race between birth weight and maternal CRH-BP SNP genotypes. Estimates of linkage disequilibrium and haplotypes established three common haplotypes marked by the rs1053989 SNP in all three races. This SNP predicted significant birth weight variation after adjustment for gestational age, maternal BMI, parity, and smoking. African American and Hispanic mothers carrying the A allele had infants whose birth weight was on average 254 and 302 grams, respectively, less than infants having C/C mothers. Non-Hispanic White mothers homozygous for the A allele had infants who were on average 148 grams less than those infants having A/C and C/C mothers. Conclusions: The magnitudes of the estimates of the birth weight effects are comparable to the combined effects of multiple SNPs reported in a recent meta-analysis of 6 GWAS studies and is quantitatively larger than that associated with maternal cigarette smoking. This effect was persistent across subpopulations that vary with respect to ancestry and environment. {\copyright} 2012 Wadhwa et al.} } @unpublished{pittir13650, month = {August}, title = {HSV-1 ICP4, A Multifaceted RNA PolII Transcription Factor}, author = {Lauren Wagner}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Herpes Simplex Virus, ICP4, Transcription}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13650/}, abstract = { ICP4, of Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1) is responsible for activation of viral Early and Late genes, and is necessary for viral replication. ICP4 contains two transactivation domains separated by a DNA binding domain. The complex structure of ICP4 indicates the possible diversity of the cellular and viral proteins it interacts with to function. ICP4 interacts with a variety of transcription complexes to promote RNA Polymerase II mediated transcription. The structural basis for these interactions has not yet been clearly defined. To more closely examine the structural requirements for ICP4 activities, mutants in conserved and degenerate regions of the N-terminus, in the presence and absence of the carboxyl terminus, were examined for effects on viral gene expression. It was found that i) the amino terminal transactivation domain is strictly required for E gene transcription, ii) multiple conserved regions within the N-terminus contribute to transcription, and iii) the amino terminal and carboxyl terminal transactivation domains cooperate to mediate transcription. Affinity purification assays demonstrated that many of the observed defects in transcription probably resulted from the deletion of regions involved in stabilizing TFIID. Complementation analyses demonstrated that TFIID interactions are stabilized by the presence of one functional N-terminal and C-terminal transactivation domain within an ICP4 dimer. Affinity purification and mass spectrometry were used to determine the complexity of ICP4 mediated interactions throughout infection in addition to the structural requirements provided by ICP4 for these interactions. Mass spectrometry and western blot data indicated that ICP4 was found in complex with TFIID prior to other components of the transcription machinery including Mediator and TFIIH. Additionally, the amino terminal 774 amino acids were sufficient for interactions with TFIID, Mediator and TFIIH. While ICP4 has previously only been associated with preinitiation complex formation, components of initiation, elongation, mRNA processing, and mRNA export machinery were also found in complexes with ICP4, suggesting that ICP4 functions as a multifaceted RNA PolII transcription factor. Together, the data presented herein provide an understanding of how the structural complexities of ICP4 provide an interface for the formation of transcription complexes. Additionally, a new model for viral transcription is presented. } } @unpublished{pittir12098, month = {May}, title = {Role of MicroRNA-363 in Human Papillomavirus-Associated Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck}, author = {Abigail Wald}, year = {2012}, keywords = {microRNA human papillomavirus squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12098/}, abstract = {Squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) ranks sixth among cancers worldwide. Despite recent advances in the detection and therapy of SCCHN, the five-year survival rate remains low. Human papillomavirus (HPV) has been detected in a new class of SCCHN that has emerged in younger patients without the common risk factors of alcohol and/or tobacco. HPV-positive and HPV-negative SCCHN have different clinical characteristics, leading some to classify them as distinct diseases. High-risk HPVs have been implicated in a number of cancers including cervical, anogenital, and head and neck cancers. Micro (mi) RNAs are a recently discovered class of endogenously encoded small RNAs that most commonly function as negative regulators of gene expression. MiRNA expression profiles are often altered in cellular stress conditions, including cancers and viral infections. We hypothesized that HPV disrupts cellular miRNA expression in HPV-positive SCCHN and contributes to the development of this cancer. MiRNA microarray analysis of HPV-positive and HPV-negative SCCHN cell lines revealed the dysregulation of several miRNAs, including the upregulation of miR-363 and downregulation of miR-181a, miR-218, and miR-29a. Exogenous expression of the HPV-16 E6 oncogene in normal primary human keratinocytes showed similar changes in the above miRNAs, implicating HPV E6 in this up/downregulation. Tissues from SCCHN patients in the western Pennsylvania area showed an HPV-positivity rate of 59 percent. HPV-positive SCCHN cases were seen only in the tonsil and base of tongue, and patients with HPV-positive SCCHN were diagnosed on average nine years younger than those with HPV-negative SCCHN. Additionally, miR-363 was upregulated in HPV-16-positive SCCHN tissues compared to the HPV-negative SCCHN tissues. We utilized gene expression data and spectral counting proteomics to narrow the possible cellular targets of miR-363 in SCCHN. As confirmed via luciferase assays, miR-363 targets MYO1B, a myosin protein involved in cell motility. Functional assays showed that overexpression of miR-363 in HPV-negative SCCHN cells or siRNA knockdown of MYO1B in HPV-positive SCCHN cells independently reduced cell migration. Furthermore, the addition of miR-363 to HPV-negative SCCHN cells also caused an increase in cell proliferation and colony formation. Based on our studies, we envision that high-level expression of the E6 oncogene in HPV-positive SCCHN results in an increase in miR-363 levels. Increased expression of miR-363 may then reduce MYO1B levels, thereby reducing the migratory ability of these cells. Furthermore, high levels of miR-363 may also promote cellular proliferation and colony formation. } } @inproceedings{pittir18991, title = {Neglect Benevolence in Human-Swarm Interaction with Communication Latency}, author = {Phillip Walker and Steven Nunnally and Mike Lewis and Andreas Kolling and Nilanjan Chakraborty and Katia Sycara}, publisher = {Springer Berlin Heidelberg}, year = {2012}, pages = {662 -- 669}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18991/} } @inproceedings{pittir18990, booktitle = {2012 IEEE International Conference on Systems, Man and Cybernetics - SMC}, month = {October}, title = {Neglect benevolence in human control of swarms in the presence of latency}, author = {Phillip Walker and Steven Nunnally and Mike Lewis and Andreas Kolling and Nilanjan Chakraborty and Katia Sycara}, publisher = {IEEE}, year = {2012}, journal = {2012 IEEE International Conference on Systems, Man, and Cybernetics (SMC)}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18990/} } @inproceedings{pittir19020, booktitle = {AAAI Fall Symposium on Human Control of Bio-Inspired Swarms}, month = {November}, title = {Investigating neglect benevolence and communication latency during human-swarm interaction}, author = {Phillip M Walker and Steven Nunnally and Michael Lewis and Andreas Kolling and Nilanjan Chakraborty and Katia Sycara}, publisher = {American Association for Artificial Intelligence}, year = {2012}, journal = {AAAI Fall Symposium on Human Control of Bio-Inspired Swarms}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19020/}, abstract = {In practical applications of robot swarms with bioinspired behaviors, a human operator will need to exert control over the swarm to fulfill the mission objectives. In many operational settings, human operators are remotely located and the communication environment is harsh. Hence, there exists some latency in information (or control command) transfer between the human and the swarm. In this paper, we conduct experiments of human-swarm interaction to investigate the effects of communication latency on the performance of a humanswarm system in a swarm foraging task.We develop and investigate the concept of neglect benevolence, where a human operator allows the swarm to evolve on its own and stabilize before giving new commands. Our experimental results indicate that operators exploited neglect benevolence in different ways to develop successful strategies in the foraging task. Furthermore, we show experimentally that the use of a predictive display can help mitigate the adverse effects of communication latency.} } @article{pittir14167, volume = {7}, number = {4}, month = {April}, title = {The structure of the mitotic spindle and nucleolus during mitosis in the amebo-flagellate naegleria}, author = {CJ Walsh}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14167/}, abstract = {Mitosis in the amebo-flagellate Naegleria pringsheimi is acentrosomal and closed (the nuclear membrane does not break down). The large central nucleolus, which occupies about 20\% of the nuclear volume, persists throughout the cell cycle. At mitosis, the nucleolus divides and moves to the poles in association with the chromosomes. The structure of the mitotic spindle and its relationship to the nucleolus are unknown. To identify the origin and structure of the mitotic spindle, its relationship to the nucleolus and to further understand the influence of persistent nucleoli on cellular division in acentriolar organisms like Naegleria, three-dimensional reconstructions of the mitotic spindle and nucleolus were carried out using confocal microscopy. Monoclonal antibodies against three different nucleolar regions and {\ensuremath{\alpha}}-tubulin were used to image the nucleolus and mitotic spindle. Microtubules were restricted to the nucleolus beginning with the earliest prophase spindle microtubules. Early spindle microtubules were seen as short rods on the surface of the nucleolus. Elongation of the spindle microtubules resulted in a rough cage of microtubules surrounding the nucleolus. At metaphase, the mitotic spindle formed a broad band completely embedded within the nucleolus. The nucleolus separated into two discreet masses connected by a dense band of microtubules as the spindle elongated. At telophase, the distal ends of the mitotic spindle were still completely embedded within the daughter nucleoli. Pixel by pixel comparison of tubulin and nucleolar protein fluorescence showed 70\% or more of tubulin co-localized with nucleolar proteins by early prophase. These observations suggest a model in which specific nucleolar binding sites for microtubules allow mitotic spindle formation and attachment. The fact that a significant mass of nucleolar material precedes the chromosomes as the mitotic spindle elongates suggests that spindle elongation drives nucleolar division. {\copyright} 2012 Charles J. Walsh.} } @unpublished{pittir11935, month = {May}, title = {Stage violence, power and the director: an examination of the theory and practice of cruelty from Antonin Artaud to Sarah Kane}, author = {Jordan M Walsh}, year = {2012}, keywords = {in-yer-face, PittRep}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11935/}, abstract = {This exploration of stage violence is aimed at grappling with the moral, theoretical and practical difficulties of staging acts of extreme violence on stage and, consequently, with the impact that these representations have on actors and audience. My hypothesis is as follows: an act of violence enacted on stage and viewed by an audience can act as a catalyst for the coming together of that audience in defense of humanity, a togetherness in the act of defying the truth mimicked by the theatrical violence represented on stage, which has the potential to stir the latent power of the theatre communion. I have used the theoretical work of Antonin Artaud, especially his ?Theatre of Cruelty,? and the works of Peter Brook, Jerzy Grotowski, and Sarah Kane in conversation with Artaud?s theories as a prism through which to investigate my hypothesis. Through these production and script analysis, I have attempted to justify violence as a tool for empowering an audience, and, also, I have highlighted a few of the pitfalls in this work with brutality. This written examination acts as the first half of sharpening my personal understanding of theatrical violence as a stage director. This will lead into the second half of my research, my direction of a production of Sarah Kane?s 1998 play Cleansed as praxis: a practical testing of these theories of violence and cruelty. This production, which will take place from April 11-15, 2012 in the Studio Theatre of the Cathedral of Learning, will act as the final part of my thesis project, which will include and apply much of the theoretical work throughout this paper. Through this analytical work (notably a new understanding of Brook?s insertion of Brechtian meta-theatricality into the Theatre of Cruelty) in conjunction with my direction of Cleansed, I argue that a respect for the contract of mimesis is of the utmost importance in maximizing the potential of violence to empower and in minimizing its potential to paralyze. That is: by setting aside the ostensible goal of fooling an audience with the ?reality? of an act of violence, the visceral impact of this representation becomes more honest and, paradoxically, more effective.} } @article{pittir16062, volume = {7}, number = {10}, month = {October}, title = {Accelerated Calvarial Healing in Mice Lacking Toll-Like Receptor 4}, author = {D Wang and JR Gilbert and JJ Cray and AA Kubala and MA Shaw and TR Billiar and GM Cooper}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16062/}, abstract = {The bone and immune systems are closely interconnected. The immediate inflammatory response after fracture is known to trigger a healing cascade which plays an important role in bone repair. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) is a member of a highly conserved receptor family and is a critical activator of the innate immune response after tissue injury. TLR4 signaling has been shown to regulate the systemic inflammatory response induced by exposed bone components during long-bone fracture. Here we tested the hypothesis that TLR4 activation affects the healing of calvarial defects. A 1.8 mm diameter calvarial defect was created in wild-type (WT) and TLR4 knockout (TLR4-/-) mice. Bone healing was tested using radiographic, histologic and gene expression analyses. Radiographic and histomorphometric analyses revealed that calvarial healing was accelerated in TLR4-/- mice. More bone was observed in TLR4-/- mice compared to WT mice at postoperative days 7 and 14, although comparable healing was achieved in both groups by day 21. Bone remodeling was detected in both groups on postoperative day 28. In TLR4-/- mice compared to WT mice, gene expression analysis revealed that higher expression levels of IL-1{\ensuremath{\beta}}, IL-6, TNF-{\ensuremath{\alpha}},TGF-{\ensuremath{\beta}}1, TGF-{\ensuremath{\beta}}3, PDGF and RANKL and lower expression level of RANK were detected at earlier time points ({$\leq$} postoperative 4 days); while higher expression levels of IL-1{\ensuremath{\beta}} and lower expression levels of VEGF, RANK, RANKL and OPG were detected at late time points ({\ensuremath{>}} postoperative 4 days). This study provides evidence of accelerated bone healing in TLR4-/- mice with earlier and higher expression of inflammatory cytokines and with increased osteoclastic activity. Further work is required to determine if this is due to inflammation driven by TLR4 activation. {\copyright} 2012 Wang et al.} } @unpublished{pittir11867, month = {May}, title = {Flexibility vs. preorganization: molucular simulations of MDM2-p53 peptide binding events}, author = {David Wen Rui Wang}, year = {2012}, keywords = {computer simulations, p53-MDM2, weighted ensemble, flexibility vs preorganization, hydrodynamic interactions}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11867/}, abstract = {Speeding the molecular binding process is of particular interest in many fields. While traditional belief dictates that ligand preorganization is optimal, the discovery of intrinsically disordered proteins may contest such convention. The ?fly-casting? mechanism argues that a flexible protein can bind its partner faster due to a larger capture radius and a resulting coupled process of folding and binding. We directly test this hypothesis, using computational means, on the p53-MDM2 system, performing binding simulations of MDM2 to either a flexible p53 peptide or its exact preorganized analog. We employ a path sampling algorithm, weighted ensemble, to generate large ensembles of binding pathways and to calculate rates of association. Additionally, the effect of hydrodynamic interactions, often omitted in implicit solvent simulations, on the binding rates was examined. We find no difference between the binding rates of flexible p53 and preorganized p53. The exclusion of hydrodynamic interactions significantly decreases the binding rates due to largely reduced translational diffusion coefficients, indicating the importance of using hydrodynamic interactions in binding simulations.} } @article{pittir15596, volume = {7}, number = {7}, month = {July}, title = {A multi-factorial genetic model for prognostic assessment of high risk melanoma patients receiving adjuvant interferon}, author = {E Wang and Y Zhao and A Monaco and L Uccellini and JM Kirkwood and M Spyropoulou-Vlachou and MC Panelli and FM Marincola and H Gogas}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15596/}, abstract = {Purpose: IFNa was the first cytokine to demonstrate anti-tumor activity in advanced melanoma. Despite the ability of high-dose IFNa reducing relapse and mortality by up to 33\%, large majority of patients experience side effects and toxicity which outweigh the benefits. The current study attempts to identify genetic markers likely to be associated with benefit from IFN-a2b treatment and predictive for survival. Experimental design: We tested the association of variants in FOXP3 microsatellites, CTLA4 SNPs and HLA genotype in 284 melanoma patients and their association with prognosis and survival of melanoma patients who received IFNa adjuvant therapy. Results: Univariate survival analysis suggested that patients bearing either the DRB1*15 or HLA-Cw7 allele suffered worse OS while patients bearing either HLA-Cw6 or HLA-B44 enjoyed better OS. DRB1*15 positive patients suffered also worse RFS and conversely HLA-Cw6 positive patients had better RFS. Multivariate analysis revealed that a five-marker genotyping signature was prognostic of OS independent of disease stage. In the multivariate Cox regression model, HLA-B38 (p = 0.021), HLA-C15 (p = 0.025), HLA-C3 (p = 0.014), DRB1*15 (p = 0.005) and CT60*G/G (0.081) were significantly associated with OS with risk ratio of 0.097 (95\% CI, 0.013-0.709), 0.387 (95\% CI, 0.169-0.889), 0.449 (95\% CI, 0.237-0.851), 1.948 (95\% CI, 1.221-3.109) and 1.484 (95\% IC, 0.953-2.312) respectively. Conclusion: These results suggest that gene polymorphisms relevant to a biological occurrence are more likely to be informative when studied in concert to address potential redundant or conflicting functions that may limit each gene individual contribution. The five markers identified here exemplify this concept though prospective validation in independent cohorts is needed.} } @article{pittir18579, volume = {131}, number = {3}, month = {January}, author = {FF Wang and R Kumar and KD Jordan}, title = {A distributed point polarizable force field for carbon dioxide}, journal = {Theoretical Chemistry Accounts}, pages = {1 -- 8}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18579/}, abstract = {A distributed point polarizable model potential for carbon dioxide, with explicit terms for charge penetration and induction, is introduced. This model potential accurately describes the structures and interaction energies of small (CO2)n clusters and also gives the second virial coefficients and radial distribution functions of supercritical CO2 in excellent agreement with experiment. {\copyright} 2012 Springer-Verlag.} } @inproceedings{pittir16283, month = {December}, title = {The Personal Mobility and Manipulation Appliance (PerMMA): a robotic wheelchair with advanced mobility and manipulation.}, author = {H Wang and GG Grindle and J Candiotti and C Chung and M Shino and E Houston and RA Cooper}, year = {2012}, pages = {3324 -- 3327}, journal = {Conference proceedings : ... Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. Conference}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16283/}, abstract = {The Personal Mobility and Manipulation Appliance (PerMMA) is a recently developed personal assistance robot developed to provide people with disabilities and older adults enhanced assistance in both mobility and manipulation, which are two fundamental components for independently activities of daily life performing, community participation, and quality of life. Technologies to assist with mobility and manipulation are among the most important tools for clinicians, end users and caregivers; however, there are currently few systems that provide practical and coordinated assistance with mobility and manipulation tasks. The PerMMA was not only developed and evaluated to provide users and caregivers enhanced mobility and manipulation options, but also as a clinical tool as well as research platform. The development and evaluation of PerMMA are presented in the paper.} } @unpublished{pittir10762, month = {February}, title = {Association Analysis for Multivariate Time-to-event Data}, author = {Hao Wang}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Association analysis, multivariate competing risk data, cause-specific cross hazard ratio, bivariate cause-specific hazard ratio, pseudolikelihood estimator, bivariate compound Poisson process, Levy copula, Levy process, two-stage estimator.}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10762/}, abstract = {Association analyses are performed for two types of multivariate time-to-event data: multivariate clustered competing risks data and bivariate recurrent events data. In the first part, we extend the bivariate hazard ratio [Cheng and Fine, 2008] to multivariate competing risks data and show it is equivalent to the cause-specific cross hazard ratio in Cheng et al. [2010]. Two nonparametric approaches are proposed. One extends the plug-in estimator in Cheng and Fine [2008] and the other adapts the pseudo likelihood estimator for bivariate survival data [Clayton, 1978] to multivariate competing risks data. The asymptotic properties are established by using empirical process techniques. We compare the extended plug-in and pseudo likelihood estimators with the existing U statistic Cheng et al. [2010] by simulations and show that the three methods have comparable performance when no tied events exist. However, the plug-in estimator underestimate and the other two overestimate positive associations in the presence of rounding errors. Hence, we propose a modified U statistic for tied observations, which outperforms the other estimators by simulation studies. All methods are applied to the Cache County Study to examine mother-child and sibship associations in dementia among this aging population. The modified U essentially lies between the plug-in estimate and the original U statistic. We therefore recommend using the straightforward plug-in estimator for untied data, and using the modified U statistic when there are rounding errors. In the second part, bivariate recurrent events data are modeled by a compound Poisson process, whose dependence structure is then modeled by a Levy copula. When only the parameter of dependence structure is of primary interest, we proposed two methods to estimate the dependence parameter of the Levy copula. One uses Kendall's tau assuming the Clayton Levy copula while the other uses two-stage strategy to propose a semiparametric estimator. Consistency and asymptotic normality are also established. Simulation studies show that the proposed semi-parametric estimator is less efficient than the full likelihood estimator but superior to the nonparametric one. The proposed methods are also applied to Danish fire data to examine the relationship between loss to a building and loss to its contents.} } @unpublished{pittir10623, month = {February}, title = {MULTIPLE-RESONATOR MAGNETIC RESONANT COUPLING WIRELESS POWER TRANSFER}, author = {Hao Wang}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Resonant, Coupling, Wireless, Coupled Mode Theory, Multiple-resonator}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10623/}, abstract = {With the developments of mobile and implantable devices, wireless power transfer (WPT) has become increasingly necessary to free a variety of electronic systems from using power cords and batteries. WPT is especially important in providing medical implants with an alternative power source since changing battery in an implant implies a surgery. In recent years, several WPT methods have emerged, including magnetic induction and omnidirec- tional or unidirectional electromagnetic radiation. In 2007, a magnetic resonant coupling WPT method was reported which brought the research on WPT to a new climax. This new method transmits power wirelessly in the mid-range, which represents several times the average radius of the resonators in the WPT system. The energy transmission efficiency of the new method is much higher than the magnetic induction method. In addition, the new method does not suffer from the tracking problem as the unidirectional electromagnetic radiation method does. Despite the advantages, a simple two-resonator WPT system has limited applications due to the insufficient transmission range in many practical applications. A multiple-resonator system provides an effective solution to this problem, but has not yet been fully understood despite the recent interest in this subject. In this thesis, the three- resonator relayed WPT system is analyzed theoretically. The coupled mode theory (CMT) is utilized to find the optimal relay position at which the maximum efficiency is achieved. Experiments were performed which verified the results of our theoretical analysis. It was found that the relay resonator increased the WPT distance significantly while providing ahigh energy transfer efficiency. As an important application, we constructed a new platform for performing biological experiments on laboratory rodents implanted with miniature devices. Our WPT system supplies a sufficient amount energy to the implanted devices regardless of the locations of rodents in the platform. A new hexagonal PCB based resonator was designed. Seven such resonators were fabricated and placed under the platform in a unique pattern. These resonators transmit power to an innovative receiving resonator which is integrated within the container of an implanted device.} } @unpublished{pittir12113, month = {June}, title = {DEVELOPMENT AND EVALUATION OF AN ADVANCED REAL-TIME ELECTRICAL POWERED WHEELCHAIR CONTROLLER}, author = {Hongwu Wang}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Real-time, electrical powered wheelchair, controller, terrain dependent driving, stair climbing, mobility, modeling and simulation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12113/}, abstract = {Advances in Electric Powered Wheelchairs (EPW) have improved mobility for people with disabilities as well as older adults, and have enhanced their integration into society. Some of the issues still present in EPW lie in the difficulties when encountering different types of terrain, and access to higher or low surfaces. To this end, an advanced real-time electrical powered wheelchair controller was developed. The controller was comprised of a hardware platform with sensors measuring the speed of the driving, caster wheels and the acceleration, with a single board computer for implementing the control algorithms in real-time, a multi-layer software architecture, and modular design. A model based real-time speed and traction controller was developed and validated by simulation. The controller was then evaluated via driving over four different surfaces at three specified speeds. Experimental results showed that model based control performed best on all surfaces across the speeds compared to PID (proportional-integral-derivative) and Open Loop control. A real-time slip detection and traction control algorithm was further developed and evaluated by driving the EPW over five different surfaces at three speeds. Results showed that the performance of anti-slip control was consistent on the varying surfaces at different speeds. The controller was also tested on a front wheel drive EPW to evaluate a forwarding tipping detection and prevention algorithm. Experimental results showed that the tipping could be accurately detected as it was happening and the performance of the tipping prevention strategy was consistent on the slope across different speeds. A terrain-dependent EPW user assistance system was developed based on the controller. Driving rules for wet tile, gravel, slopes and grass were developed and validated by 10 people without physical disabilities. The controller was also adapted to the Personal Mobility and Manipulation Appliance (PerMMA) Generation II, which is an advanced power wheelchair with a flexible mobile base, allowing it to adjust the positions of each of the four casters and two driving wheels. Simulations of the PerMMA Gen II system showed that the mobile base controller was able to climb up to 8? curb and maintain passenger?s posture in a comfort position.} } @inproceedings{pittir16284, booktitle = {Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America Conference}, title = {Design and Development of a Step Climbing Sequence for a Novel Electric Powered Wheelchair}, author = {Hongwu Wang and J Candiotti and C Chung and M Shino and Rory A Cooper}, year = {2012}, note = {CD-ROM}, journal = {Proceedings of the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America Conference}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16284/} } @article{pittir14307, volume = {6}, month = {December}, title = {Effect of adherence to self-monitoring of diet and physical activity on weight loss in a technology-supported behavioral intervention}, author = {J Wang and SM Sereika and ER Chasens and LJ Ewing and JT Matthews and LE Burke}, year = {2012}, pages = {221 -- 226}, journal = {Patient Preference and Adherence}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14307/}, abstract = {Background: Examination of mediating behavioral factors could explain how an intervention works and thus provide guidance to optimize behavioral weight-loss programs. This study examined the mediating role of adherence to self-monitoring of diet and physical activity on weight loss in a behavioral weight-loss trial testing the use of personal digital assistants (PDA) for self-monitoring. Methods: Mediation analysis was conducted to examine the possible mediating role of adherence to self-monitoring of diet and physical activity between treatments using varying self-monitoring methods (paper record, PDA, and PDA with daily tailored feedback messages) and weight loss. Findings: The sample (N = 210) was predominantly white (78\%) and female (85\%). Compared to a paper record, using a PDA for self-monitoring diet (P = 0.027) and physical activity (P = 0.014) had significant direct effects on weight loss at 12 months, as well as a significant indirect effect on outcomes through improved adherence to self-monitoring (PS {\ensuremath{<}} 0.001). Receiving an automated daily feedback message via PDA only had a significant indirect effect on weight through self-monitoring adherence to diet (P = 0.004) and physical activity (P = 0.002). Conclusions: Adherence to self-monitoring of diet and physical activity is important as the underlying mechanism in this technology-supported behavioral weight-loss intervention. {\copyright} 2012 Wang et al, publisher and licensee Dove Medical Press Ltd.} } @article{pittir29919, volume = {4}, number = {1}, month = {April}, title = {A retrospective, deformable registration analysis of the impact of PET-CT planning on patterns of failure in stereotactic body radiation therapy for recurrent head and neck cancer}, author = {K Wang and DE Heron and JC Flickinger and JCM Rwigema and RL Ferris and GJ Kubicek and JP Ohr and AE Quinn and C Ozhasoglu and BF Branstetter}, year = {2012}, journal = {Head and Neck Oncology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29919/}, abstract = {Background: Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) has seen increasing use as a salvage strategy for selected patients with recurrent, previously-irradiated squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (rSCCHN). PET-CT may be advantageous for tumor delineation and evaluation of treatment failures in SBRT. We analyzed the patterns of failure following SBRT for rSCCHN and assessed the impact of PET-CT treatment planning on these patterns of failure. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 96 patients with rSCCHN treated with SBRT. Seven patients (7\%) were treated after surgical resection of rSCCHN and 89 patients (93\%) were treated definitively. PET-CT treatment planning was used for 45 patients whereas non-PET-CT planning was used for 51 patients. Categories of failure were assigned by comparing recurrences on post-treatment scans to the planning target volume (PTV) from planning scans using the deformable registration function of VelocityAI?. Failures were defined: In-field ({\ensuremath{>}}75\% inside PTV), Overlap (20-75\% inside PTV), Marginal ({\ensuremath{<}}20\% inside PTV but closest edge within 1cm of PTV), or Regional/Distant (more than 1cm from PTV). Results: Median follow-up was 7.4 months (range, 2.652 months). Of 96 patients, 47 (49\%) developed post-SBRT failure. Failure distribution was: In-field12.3\%, Overlap24.6\%, Marginal36.8\%, Regional/Distant26.3\%. There was a significant improvement in overall failure-free survival (log rank p = 0.037) and combined Overlap/Marginal failure-free survival (log rank p = 0.037) for those receiving PET-CT planning vs. non-PET-CT planning in the overall cohort (n = 96). Analysis of the definitive SBRT subgroup (n = 89) increased the significance of these findings (overall failure: p = 0.008, Overlap/Marginal failure: p = 0.009). There were no significant differences in age, gender, time from prior radiation, dose, use of cetuximab with SBRT, tumor differentiation, and tumor volume between the PET-CT and non-PET-CT groups. Conclusions: Most failures after SBRT treatment for rSCCHN were near misses, i.e. Overlap/Marginal failures (61.4\%), suggesting an opportunity to improve outcomes with more sensitive imaging. PET-CT treatment planning showed the lowest rate of overall and near miss failures and is beneficial for SBRT treatment planning. {\copyright} 2012 Wang et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir17314, volume = {66}, number = {2}, month = {February}, author = {L Wang and SA Asher}, title = {Refractive-index matching avoids local field corrections and scattering bias in solid-state Na {\ensuremath{<}}inf{\ensuremath{>}}2{\ensuremath{<}}/inf{\ensuremath{>}}SO {\ensuremath{<}}inf{\ensuremath{>}}4{\ensuremath{<}}/inf{\ensuremath{>}} ultraviolet Raman cross-section measurements}, journal = {Applied Spectroscopy}, pages = {157 -- 162}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17314/}, abstract = {We report a refractive-index matching method to measure nonabsorbing solid ultraviolet (UV) Raman cross-sections that avoids the local field correction and interface scattering of incident light. We used refractiveindex- matched chloroform as an internal standard to determine the solidstate 995 cm -1Na 2SO 4 244 nm Raman cross-sections. The pure liquid chloroform 668 cm -1 244 nm Raman cross-section was determined by using acetonitrile as an internal standard and by calculating the local field corrections for the observed Raman intensities. Our measured 244 nm UV Raman cross-section of the solid-state 995 cm -1 SO 42- band of 1.97 {$\pm$}0.07 6 10 -28 cm2/(molc.sr) is about half of its aqueous solution Raman crosssection, indicating interactions between the sulfate species in the solid that decrease the Raman polarizability. {\copyright} 2012 Society for Applied Spectroscopy.} } @article{pittir18733, volume = {31}, number = {1}, month = {January}, author = {L Wang and C Ma and P Wipf and XQ Xie}, title = {Linear and nonlinear support vector machine for the classification of human 5-HT {\ensuremath{<}}inf{\ensuremath{>}}1A{\ensuremath{<}}/inf{\ensuremath{>}} ligand functionality}, journal = {Molecular Informatics}, pages = {85 -- 95}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18733/}, abstract = {Upon binding to a receptor, agonists and antagonists can induce distinct biological functions and thus lead to significantly different pharmacological responses. Thus, in silico prediction or in vitro characterization of ligand agonistic or antagonistic functionalities is an important step toward identifying specific pharmacological therapeutics. In this study, we investigated the molecular properties of agonists and antagonists of human 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor subtype 1A (5-HT 1A). Subsequently, intrinsic functions of these ligands (agonists/antagonists) were modeled by support vector machine (SVM), using five 2D molecular fingerprints and the 3D Topomer distance. Five kernel functions, including linear, polynomial, RBF, Tanimoto and a novel Topomer kernel based on Topomer 3D similarity were used to develop linear and nonlinear classifiers. These classifiers were validated through cross-validation, yielding a classification accuracy ranging from 80.4\% to 92.3\%. The performance of different kernels and fingerprints was analyzed and discussed. Linear and nonlinear models were further interpreted through the illustration of underlying classification mechanism. The computation protocol has been automated and demonstrated through our online service. This study expands the scope and applicability of similarity-based methods in cheminformatics, which are typically used for the identification of active molecules against a target protein. Our findings provide a good starting point for further systematic classifications of other GPCR ligands and for the data mining of large chemical libraries. Copyright {\copyright} 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH \& Co. KGaA, Weinheim.} } @article{pittir17315, volume = {66}, number = {4}, month = {April}, author = {L Wang and A Tikhonov and SA Asher}, title = {Silica crystalline colloidal array deep ultraviolet narrow-band diffraction devices}, journal = {Applied Spectroscopy}, pages = {426 -- 431}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17315/}, abstract = {We developed a facile method to fabricate deep ultraviolet (UV) photonic crystal crystalline colloidal array (CCA) Bragg diffraction devices. The CCAs were prepared through the self-assembly of small, monodisperse, highly surface charged silica particles ({$\sim$}50 nm diameter) that were synthesized by using a modified St{\"o}ber process. The particle surfaces were charged by functionalizing them with the strong acid, non-UV absorbing silane coupling agent 3-(trihydroxylsilyl)-1-propane-sulfonic acid (THOPS). These highly charged, monodisperse silica particles self assemble into a face-centered cubic CCA that efficiently Bragg diffracts light in the deep UV. The diffracted wavelength was varied between 237 nm to 227 nm by tilting the CCA orientation relative to the incident beam between glancing angles from 90? to {$\sim$}66?. Theoretical calculations predict that the silica CCA diffraction will have a full width at half-maximum (FWHM) of 2 nm with a transmission of {$\sim$}10 -11 at the band center. We demonstrate the utility of this silica CCA filter to reject the Rayleigh scattering in 229 nm deep UV Raman measurements of highly scattering Teflon. {\copyright} 2012 Society for Applied Spectroscopy.} } @unpublished{pittir10845, month = {July}, title = {FABRICATION OF CRYSTALLINE COLLOIDAL ARRAY PHOTONIC CRYSTALS AND APPLICATIONS }, author = {Luling Wang}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Photonic Crystals; Deep UV Filter; Nanoparticles; Silica Colloid; Bragg Diffraction; Raman Cross Sections}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10845/}, abstract = {Crystalline colloidal array (CCA) photonic crystals (PCs) are periodic structures formed by the self-assembly of monodisperse, highly-charged particles in low ionic strength aqueous solutions. Similar to an atomic crystal but with much larger lattice spacings, the CCA can efficiently diffract light in the UV, visible and near-IR spectral regions. This thesis reports the development of new CCA materials, novel CCA Bragg diffraction devices, and utilization of CCA PC templates for new nanostructure and nanomaterial fabrication. We use CCA for development of a CCA deep UV narrow band filter that acts as a Rayleigh rejection filter for UV Raman spectroscopy and for templates for solid-state UV Raman cross section determinations. We developed novel CCA PC deep UV Bragg diffraction devices. We synthesized small, monodisperse, highly surface-charged silica particles and prepared novel silica CCA through the self-assembly of these particles. The silica CCA efficiently Bragg diffract light in the deep UV. The diffracted wavelength was varied by tilting the CCA orientation to the incident beam. We demonstrated the utility of the silica CCA filter as a Rayleigh rejection filter in Teflon UV Raman measurements. We conducted the first resonance Raman cross-section measurements of solids that avoids self-absorption bias by using PC templates. We fabricated complex stoichiometrically defined nanoparticles (NaNO3/Na2SO4 nanoparticles) by utilizing the defined interstitial volume of close-packed PCs. We successfully determined the solid-state NaNO3 UV resonance Raman cross-sections by using solid Na2SO4 as an internal standard. We also developed a refractive-index matching method to measure solid-state Na2SO4 UV Raman cross sections that avoids the effect of the local field and avoids interface scattering of the incident light. We developed a facile method to fabricate silica shell PCs through the use of flexible poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAm) core templates. We synthesized monodisperse PNIPAm-silica core-shell particles and demonstrated their reversible swelling and shrinking as the temperature is cycled. We fabricated close-packed PCs of PNIPAm-silica core-shell particles and further fabricated hollow silica shell PCs by removing the PNIPAm cores by calcination. } } @unpublished{pittir13262, month = {October}, title = {SINGLE-CELL ELECTROPORATION USING ELECTROLYTE-FILLED CAPILLARIES -EXPERIMENTAL AND MODELING INVESTIGATIONS}, author = {Manyan Wang}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Single-cell electroporation Electrolyte-filled capillaries molecule transport single-cell transfection cell factors temperature effect statistical analysis numerical modeling}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13262/}, abstract = {Electrolyte-filled capillaries (EFCs) with fine tips provide a highly concentrated electric field for local single-cell electroporation (SCEP) with high spatial resolution. A complete circuit for SCEP experiments was built that consisted of a test circuit and an electroporation circuit, with the ability to monitor electrically the electroporation pulses. SCEP itself was monitored in real time by observing the loss of a fluorescent adduct of glutathione (Thioglo-1-GSH) from the intracellular space. SCEP can be applied for transfection of individual adherent cells. We hypothesize that transfection of single cells can be accomplished with the plasmid contained in a single capillary. During SCEP, electroosmotic flow can pump electrolyte out of the capillary enhancing plasmid transfer into cells. This was confirmed from both simulation and transfection experiments. Cells were successfully transfected with EGFP-C2 plasmid when the loss of Thioglo-1-GSH upon SCEP ({\ensuremath{\Delta}}F) is larger than 10\% and its mass transfer rate (M) through the membrane exceeds 0.03 s-1. A series of SCEP experiments has been carried out on PC-3 cells (with 2-?m tip opening) and A549 cells (with 4{\texttt{\char126}}5-?m tip opening) to investigate how the parameters such as cell-to-tip distance (dc), cell size (dm) and shape, temperature, current, and the cell cycle affect SCEP outcomes (M and resealing rate {\ensuremath{\alpha}}) via statistical analysis. A good linear regression is achieved only at a low temperature of 15?. The main factors affecting small molecule transport across cell membrane are dc, dm and electric current. A range of M (0.03 s-1 {\texttt{\char126}} 0.4 s-1 for PC-3 cells, or 0.03 s-1 {\texttt{\char126}} 0.5 s-1 for A549 cells) gives the best linear regressions. M is also affected by the cell cycle of A549 cells, and correlated with cell roundness only for PC-3 cells. Cells reseal faster at higher temperature; while lower temperature provides better survivability with identical {\ensuremath{\Delta}}F. Lastly, numerical models were elaborated as a platform for better understanding of the SCEP process and prediction of the trends of SCEP under various experimental conditions. A mass transport model involving potential distribution, diffusion, convection and electrokinetic flow was extended to study mass transport at a buffer-filled pipette tip/porous medium interface.} } @unpublished{pittir6199, month = {February}, title = {Design and Robustness Analysis on Non-volatile Storage and Logic Circuit}, author = {Peiyuan Wang}, year = {2012}, keywords = {non-persistent, process variation, spin-MOS, STTRAM, non-volatile}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/6199/}, abstract = {By combining the flexibility of MOS logic and the non-volatility of spintronic devices, spin-MOS logic and storage circuitry offer a promising approach to implement highly integrated, power-efficient, and nonvolatile computing and storage systems. Besides the persistent errors due to process variations, however, the functional correctness of Spin-MOS circuitry suffers from additional non-persistent errors that are incurred by the randomness of spintronic device operations, i.e., thermal fluctuations. This work quantitatively investigates the impact of thermal fluctuations on the operations of two typical Spin-MOS circuitry: one transistor and one magnetic tunnel junction (1T1J) spin-transfer torque random access memory (STT-RAM) cell and a nonvolatile latch design. A new nonvolatile latch design is proposed based on magnetic tunneling junction (MTJ) devices. In the standby mode, the latched data can be retained in the MTJs without consuming any power. Two types of operation errors can occur, namely, persistent and non-persistent errors. These are quantitatively analyzed by including models for process variations and thermal fluctuations during the read and write operations. A mixture importance sampling methodology is applied to enable yield-driven design and extend its application beyond memories to peripheral circuits and logic blocks. Several possible design techniques to reduce thermal induced non-persistent error rate are also discussed.} } @unpublished{pittir10467, month = {February}, title = {ASSESSMENTS OF MULTISCALE PRECIPITATION DATA FUSION AND SOIL MOISTURE DATA ASSIMILATION AND THEIR ROLES IN HYDROLOGICAL FORECASTS}, author = {Shugong Wang}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Assessments, multiscale, precipitation data fusion, soil moisture data assimilation, hydrological forecast}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10467/}, abstract = {Precipitation is the most important input for hydrological simulations and soil moisture contents (SMCs) are the most important state variables of hydrological system. We can improve hydrological simulations by improving the quality of precipitation data and assimilating satellite-measured SMC data into land surface simulation. Multiscale data fusion is an effective approach to derive precipitation data due to the multiscale characteristics of precipitation measurements. Multiscale data assimilation is the exact approach to assimilate satellite-measured SMC data into land surface simulations when measurements and model simulations are not at the same spatial resolution. To date, no systematic assessments of these approaches have been conducted in hydrological simulations. For the purpose of improving hydrological forecast, this study assesses influences of precipitation data fusion and soil moisture data assimilation on the simulations of streamflow, SMCs and evapotranspiration over 14 watersheds selected from the Ohio River Basin. As the technical basis of this study, a large-scale flow routing scheme and a parameter calibration scheme with multiple precipitation inputs are developed for Noah LSM. A multiscale data fusion algorithm, namely Multiscale Kalman Smoother (MKS) based framework, which plays an important role in multiscale precipitation data fusion and multiscale soil moisture data assimilation, is assessed in a large experimental site with 2246 precipitation events in 2003. Three precipitation data products are derived by fusing NLDAS-2 precipitation data product and NEXRAD MPE precipitation data product with the MKS-based framework. For the assessment over the 14 watersheds in three individual years, essential improvements of hydrological simulation have been found for a half number of cases. Findings of this assessment show that precipitation data fusion is a statistically effective approach to improve hydrological simulations. To assess the influences of soil moisture data assimilation on hydrological simulation, AMSR-E SMC data are assimilated into land surface simulation by Noah LSM. Results show that soil moisture data assimilation has not improved hydrological simulations for most of cases because AMSR-E data underestimate SMC compared with model simulations. However, for those cases in which precipitation data overestimate real precipitation, the soil moisture data assimilation has been proved as an effective approach to improve hydrological simulations.} } @unpublished{pittir13906, month = {September}, title = {The Formation of Interorganizational Networks in Extreme Events: A Comparative Study of the 1999 ChiChi Earthquake and the 2009 Typhoon Morakot}, author = {Wen-Jiun Wang}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Emergency Management; Governance; Network Analysis; Organizational Theory; Complex Adaptive Systems}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13906/}, abstract = {After catastrophic events, public, private and non-profit actors must find the means to act collectively to solve problems that do not stay within institutional and jurisdictional boundaries. Traditional hierarchical relationships do not provide governmental organizations with the means to solve such problems. Nor do traditional governmental structures enable organizations to work in collaborative networks. This study proposes a conceptual framework that argues that the formation of interorganizational networks is driven by formal structures and informal processes. The purpose of this research is to explore the dynamics of collective action in a disaster response system. The conceptual framework used in this research is a synthesis of the literatures on network governance, complex adaptive system theory, institutional analysis and development, decision making, and policy change (Koppenjan and Klijn 2004; Kooiman 2003; Axelrod and Cohen 2000; Birkland 1997, 2006; Comfort 1999, 2007; Kettl 1993; Klein 1993; Ostrom 1999, 2005; Simon 1996, 1997). This conceptual framework was employed using a mixed-method case study design that investigated two disaster events that occurred in Taiwan: ChiChi Earthquake in 1999 and Typhoon Morakot in 2009. Data were collected through a content analysis of newspaper articles published in the United Daily, network analysis techniques, and semi-structured interviews with key informants that participated in the disaster response systems. These data were used to address four research objectives. First, to identify the organizations involved in the disaster response systems. Second, to identify structure and evolution of the interactions exchanged among these organizations. Third, to identify the structure and process factors that encouraged organizations to interact within the response system. Finally, to identify the extent to which Taiwan's disaster response system learned after these two events. The findings indicate that the response operations that followed the ChiChi Earthquake and Typhoon Morakot were influenced by the tension between the need for administrative control and the need for adaptation and self-organization. The findings also indicate that disaster resilient response systems not only depend on shared cognition and the capacity to adapt during emergency situations, they also depend on striking the appropriate balance between structure and process. } } @article{pittir12264, month = {August}, title = {Cell sleeping for energy efficiency in cellular networks: Is it viable?}, author = {X Wang and P Krishnamurthy and D Tipper}, year = {2012}, pages = {2509 -- 2514}, journal = {IEEE Wireless Communications and Networking Conference, WCNC}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12264/}, abstract = {An approach advocated in the recent literature for reducing energy consumption in cellular networks is to put base stations to sleep when traffic loads are low. However, several practical considerations are ignored in these studies. In this paper, we aim to raise questions on the feasibility and benefits of base station sleeping. Specifically we analyze the interference and capacity of a coverage-based energy reduction system in CDMA based cellular networks using a simple analytical model and show that sleeping may not be a feasible solution to reduce energy consumption in many scenarios. {\copyright} 2012 IEEE.} } @article{pittir29937, volume = {13}, number = {1}, month = {March}, title = {Detecting disease-associated genes with confounding variable adjustment and the impact on genomic meta-analysis: With application to major depressive disorder}, author = {X Wang and Y Lin and C Song and E Sibille and GC Tseng}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Bioinformatics}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29937/}, abstract = {Background: Detecting candidate markers in transcriptomic studies often encounters difficulties in complex diseases, particularly when overall signals are weak and sample size is small. Covariates including demographic, clinical and technical variables are often confounded with the underlying disease effects, which further hampers accurate biomarker detection. Our motivating example came from an analysis of five microarray studies in major depressive disorder (MDD), a heterogeneous psychiatric illness with mostly uncharacterized genetic mechanisms.Results: We applied a random intercept model to account for confounding variables and case-control paired design. A variable selection scheme was developed to determine the effective confounders in each gene. Meta-analysis methods were used to integrate information from five studies and post hoc analyses enhanced biological interpretations. Simulations and application results showed that the adjustment for confounding variables and meta-analysis improved detection of biomarkers and associated pathways.Conclusions: The proposed framework simultaneously considers correction for confounding variables, selection of effective confounders, random effects from paired design and integration by meta-analysis. The approach improved disease-related biomarker and pathway detection, which greatly enhanced understanding of MDD neurobiology. The statistical framework can be applied to similar experimental design encountered in other complex and heterogeneous diseases. {\copyright} 2012 Wang et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir29785, volume = {12}, number = {1}, month = {December}, title = {Genome-wide association Scan of dental caries in the permanent dentition}, author = {X Wang and JR Shaffer and Z Zeng and F Begum and AR Vieira and J Noel and I Anjomshoaa and KT Cuenco and MK Lee and J Beck and E Boerwinkle and MC Cornelis and FB Hu and DR Crosslin and CC Laurie and SC Nelson and KF Doheny and EW Pugh and DE Polk and RJ Weyant and R Crout and DW McNeil and DE Weeks and E Feingold and ML Marazita}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Oral Health}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29785/}, abstract = {Background: Over 90\% of adults aged 20 years or older with permanent teeth have suffered from dental caries leading to pain, infection, or even tooth loss. Although caries prevalence has decreased over the past decade, there are still about 23\% of dentate adults who have untreated carious lesions in the US. Dental caries is a complex disorder affected by both individual susceptibility and environmental factors. Approximately 35-55\% of caries phenotypic variation in the permanent dentition is attributable to genes, though few specific caries genes have been identified. Therefore, we conducted the first genome-wide association study (GWAS) to identify genes affecting susceptibility to caries in adults.Methods: Five independent cohorts were included in this study, totaling more than 7000 participants. For each participant, dental caries was assessed and genetic markers (single nucleotide polymorphisms, SNPs) were genotyped or imputed across the entire genome. Due to the heterogeneity among the five cohorts regarding age, genotyping platform, quality of dental caries assessment, and study design, we first conducted genome-wide association (GWA) analyses on each of the five independent cohorts separately. We then performed three meta-analyses to combine results for: (i) the comparatively younger, Appalachian cohorts (N = 1483) with well-assessed caries phenotype, (ii) the comparatively older, non-Appalachian cohorts (N = 5960) with inferior caries phenotypes, and (iii) all five cohorts (N = 7443). Top ranking genetic loci within and across meta-analyses were scrutinized for biologically plausible roles on caries.Results: Different sets of genes were nominated across the three meta-analyses, especially between the younger and older age cohorts. In general, we identified several suggestive loci (P-value {$\leq$} 10E-05) within or near genes with plausible biological roles for dental caries, including RPS6KA2 and PTK2B, involved in p38-depenedent MAPK signaling, and RHOU and FZD1, involved in the Wnt signaling cascade. Both of these pathways have been implicated in dental caries. ADMTS3 and ISL1 are involved in tooth development, and TLR2 is involved in immune response to oral pathogens.Conclusions: As the first GWAS for dental caries in adults, this study nominated several novel caries genes for future study, which may lead to better understanding of cariogenesis, and ultimately, to improved disease predictions, prevention, and/or treatment. {\copyright} 2012 Wang et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir10570, month = {January}, title = {Genomic Meta-Analysis Combining Microarray Studies with Confounding Clinical Variables: Application to Depression Analysis}, author = {Xingbin Wang}, year = {2012}, keywords = {MDD, meta-analysis,microarray,meta-regression}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10570/}, abstract = {Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a heterogeneous psychiatric illness with mostly un-characterized pathology and is the fourth most common cause of disability according to the World Health Organization (WHO) and has a significant impact on public health in the United States. To understand the genetics of MDD, we aim to develop effective meta-analysis approaches to provide high-quality characterization of MDD related biomarkers and pathways with proper clinical variable adjustment. First, genomic meta-analysis in MDD faces multiple unique difficulties, such as weak expression signal of MDD, substantial clinical heterogeneity and small sample size. Given these obstacles, it is hard to identify consistent and robust biomarkers in an individual study. To achieve a more accurate and robust detection of differentially expressed (DE) genes and pathways associated with MDD, we proposed a statistical framework of meta-analysis for adjusting confounding variables (MetaACV). The result showed that more MDD related biomarkers and pathways were detected that greatly enhanced understanding of MDD neurobiology. Secondly, Meta-analysis has become popular in the biomedical research because it generally can increase statistical power and provide validated conclusions. However, its result is often biased due to the heterogeneity. Meta-regression has been a useful tool for exploring the source of heterogeneity among studies in a meta-analysis. In this dissertation, we will explore the use of meta-regression in microarray meta-analysis. To account for heterogeneities introduced by study-specific features such as sex, brain region and array platform in the meta-analysis of major depressive disorder (MDD) microarray studies, we extended the random effects model (REM) for genomic meta-regression, combining eight MDD microarray studies. The result shows increased statistical power to detect gender-dependent and brain-region-dependent biomarkers that traditional meta-analysis methods cannot detect. The identified gender-dependent markers have provided new biological insights as to why females are more susceptible to MDD and the result may lead to novel therapeutic targets. Finally, we present an open-source R package called Meta-analysis for Differential Expression analysis (MetaDE) which provides 12 commonly used methods of meta-analysis. It is a friendly used software such that biologists implement meta-analysis in their research. } } @unpublished{pittir11716, month = {June}, title = {Use of Acid Mine Drainage in Recycling of Marcellus Shale Flowback Water: Solids Removal and Potential Fouling of Polymeric Microfiltration Membranes}, author = {Xuhan Wang}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Marcellus Shale, Flowback water, Acid mine drainage (AMD), Microfiltration, Barium sulfate, Coagulation - flocculation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11716/}, abstract = {Flowback water generated by hydraulic fracturing during shale gas reservoir stimulation can be reused for subsequent fracturing process. Acid mine drainage (AMD) is a potential water source that could alleviate low flowback water recovery by serving as a makeup water. AMD located near gas wells can be mixed with flowback water (Mixture 1 and 2), resulting in precipitation of barium sulfate. The feasibility of microfiltration to separate solids from two sets of mixtures of AMD and flowback water was evaluated using a bench-scale set-up. Hydrophilic polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membranes with a pore size of 0.22 ?m were used in the experiments. Severe membrane fouling occurred early during Mixture 1 filtration, while no significant fouling occurred for Mixture 2. Particle size distribution analysis and fouling mechanism identification of the two mixtures were performed to understand the cause of membrane fouling. The dominant fouling mechanisms in the early stages of Mixture 1 filtration were standard blocking (pore constriction) and complete blocking (pore blocking) caused by particles in the flowback water with size in the range of membrane pore diameter. On the contrary, no significant standard blocking or complete blocking was found during the filtration of Mixture 2, which was due to the fact that most particles in Flowback water B or Mixture 2 were larger than the membrane pore diameter. Additional filtration experiments were conducted using two barium sulfate solutions containing an order of magnitude difference in precipitate concentration. Identical permeate flux behavior were observed in both experiments. Therefore, precipitated had limited impact on membrane fouling. As an alternative to membrane filtration, coagulation with aluminium chloride and ferric chloride followed by sedimentation was investigated for turbidity and total organic carbon (TOC) removal. Ferric chloride dosage of 30mg/L at pH=6 for Mixture 1 and 20mg/L at pH=6 for Mixture 2 were found to be optimal coagulation parameters that could achieve similar turbidity and TOC removal (around 90\%) as membrane filtration. This study has shown that membrane filtration has the potential to replace conventional coagulation ? flocculation ? sedimentation process for flowback water treatment for solids removal, but its efficiency depends on the flowback water quality. } } @unpublished{pittir10651, month = {February}, title = {Best-subset Selection for Complex Systems using Agent-based Simulation}, author = {Yu Wang}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Agent-based simulation, Statistical selection procedure, Ranking-and-selection, Best-subset selection, Incident response simulation, Mass casualty incident response, Complex system, Complex adaptive system, Optimization via simulation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10651/}, abstract = {It is difficult to analyze and determine strategies to control complex systems due to their inherent complexity. The complex interactions among elements make it difficult to develop and test decision makers' intuition of how the system will behave under different policies. Computer models are often used to simulate the system and to observe both direct and indirect effects of alternative interventions. However, many decision makers are unwilling to concede complete control to a computer model because of the abstractions in the model, and the other factors that cannot be modeled, such as physical, human, social and organizational relationship constraints. This dissertation develops an agent-based simulation (ABS) model to analyze a complex system and its policy alternatives, and contributes a best-subset selection (BSS) procedure that provides a group of good performing alternatives to which decision makers can then apply their subject and context knowledge in making a final decision for implementation. As a specific example of a complex system, a mass casualty incident (MCI) response system was simulated using an ABS model consisting of three interrelated sub-systems. The model was then validated by a series of sensitivity analysis experiments. The model provides a good test bed to evaluate various evacuation policies. In order to find the best policy that minimizes the overall mortality, two ranking-and-selection (R\&S) procedures from the literature (Rinott (1978) and Kim and Nelson (2001)) were implemented and compared. Then a new best-subset selection (BSS) procedure was developed to efficiently select a statistically guaranteed best-subset containing all alternatives that are close enough to the best one for a pre-specified probability. Extensive numerical experiments were organized to prove the effectiveness and demonstrate the performance of the BSS procedure. The BSS procedure was then implemented in conjunction with the MCI ABS model to select the best evacuation policies. The experimental results demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of our agent-based optimization methodology for complex system policy evaluation and selection.} } @unpublished{pittir11708, month = {June}, title = {Epidemiology of Type 1 Diabetes Complications in African-Americans}, author = {Raynard Washington}, year = {2012}, note = {Final Version of ETD}, keywords = {Type 1 diabetes, Epidemiology, complications}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11708/}, abstract = {Unlike type 2 diabetes, where prevention is possible, type 1 diabetes is a lifelong incurable metabolic disorder. The annual incidence of type 1 diabetes continues to rise annually. Despite increased access to treatment and improved disease management, type 1 diabetes is associated with excess morbidity and early mortality. African-Americans with type 1 diabetes are at increased risk of premature mortality compared to Caucasians. This disparity is likely fueled by differences in the prevalence of complications; however, there is limited information available on the racial differences in type 1 diabetes complications in individuals of African descent (i.e. African-American, Afro-Caribbean). Using the data from the U.S. Virgin Islands Childhood Diabetes Registry, this dissertation provides contemporary insights on the incidence of childhood diabetes in African-American youth and for the first time evaluates type 1 diabetes mortality in African-Americans, in the U.S. Virgin Islands. In addition, this dissertation assesses racial differences in the prevalence of type 1 diabetes complications and risk factors using a national sample from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The incidence of type 1 and type 2 diabetes in youth in the U.S. Virgin Islands is rapidly increasing. The well-established pubertal increase in type 1 diabetes incidence appears to be missing in African-American boys. Individuals diagnosed at later ages ({\ensuremath{>}}14), have significantly higher risk of mortality compared to those diagnosed at earlier ages. Despite advances in diabetes care, there were no temporal improvements observed in mortality in the U.S. Virgin Islands. African-Americans in the U.S. Virgin Islands had a similar type 1 diabetes mortality experience as African-Americans in Allegheny County, PA. African-Americans in the national sample had significantly higher rates of nephropathy and retinopathy. Race was associated with both complications, even after adjusting for clinical and demographic factors. The public health implications of this dissertation are considerable, as it provides insight on the burden of type 1 diabetes in the U.S. Virgin Islands and African-Americans in the U.S. These findings provide evidence to support additional services and potentially intensive diabetes management strategies for African-Americans with type 1 diabetes. } } @article{pittir15898, volume = {7}, number = {8}, month = {August}, title = {High Resolution Imaging of Vascular Function in Zebrafish}, author = {SC Watkins and S Maniar and M Mosher and BL Roman and M Tsang and CM St Croix}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15898/}, abstract = {Rationale: The role of the endothelium in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease is an emerging field of study, necessitating the development of appropriate model systems and methodologies to investigate the multifaceted nature of endothelial dysfunction including disturbed barrier function and impaired vascular reactivity. Objective: We aimed to develop and test an optimized high-speed imaging platform to obtain quantitative real-time measures of blood flow, vessel diameter and endothelial barrier function in order to assess vascular function in live vertebrate models. Methods and Results: We used a combination of cutting-edge optical imaging techniques, including high-speed, camera-based imaging (up to 1000 frames/second), and 3D confocal methods to collect real time metrics of vascular performance and assess the dynamic response to the thromboxane A2 (TXA2) analogue, U-46619 (1 {\ensuremath{\mu}}M), in transgenic zebrafish larvae. Data obtained in 3 and 5 day post-fertilization larvae show that these methods are capable of imaging blood flow in a large (1 mm) segment of the vessel of interest over many cardiac cycles, with sufficient speed and sensitivity such that the trajectories of individual erythrocytes can be resolved in real time. Further, we are able to map changes in the three dimensional sizes of vessels and assess barrier function by visualizing the continuity of the endothelial layer combined with measurements of extravasation of fluorescent microspheres. Conclusions: We propose that this system-based microscopic approach can be used to combine measures of physiologic function with molecular behavior in zebrafish models of human vascular disease. {\copyright} 2012 Watkins et al.} } @article{pittir29876, volume = {14}, number = {3}, month = {June}, title = {To bind or not to bind - FoxA1 determines estrogen receptor action in breast cancer progression}, author = {RJ Watters and PV Benos and S Oesterreich}, year = {2012}, journal = {Breast Cancer Research}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29876/}, abstract = {Chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by massively parallel sequencing (ChIP-seq) is rapidly enabling the comprehensive characterization of genome-wide transcription factor-binding sites, thus defining the cistrome (cis-acting DNA targets of a trans-acting factor). Estrogen receptor (ER) ChIP-seq studies have been performed mainly in cell lines, but Ross-Innes and colleagues have now completed the first such study in clinical breast cancer samples. The study aimed at determining the dynamics of ER binding and differences between more and less aggressive primary breast tumors and metastases. The authors found that ER bound to DNA in both aggressive and drug-resistant tumors but to different sites and with different affinities. Given previous findings from cell lines, FoxA1 appears to play a critical role in this reprogramming of ER binding. {\copyright} 2012 BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir14168, volume = {7}, number = {4}, month = {April}, title = {A sensitive membrane-targeted biosensor for monitoring changes in intracellular chloride in neuronal processes}, author = {SD Watts and KL Suchland and SG Amara and SL Ingram}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14168/}, abstract = {Background: Regulation of chloride gradients is a major mechanism by which excitability is regulated in neurons. Disruption of these gradients is implicated in various diseases, including cystic fibrosis, neuropathic pain and epilepsy. Relatively few studies have addressed chloride regulation in neuronal processes because probes capable of detecting changes in small compartments over a physiological range are limited. Methodology/Principal Findings: In this study, a palmitoylation sequence was added to a variant of the yellow fluorescent protein previously described as a sensitive chloride indicator (YFPQS) to target the protein to the plasma membrane (mbYFPQS) of cultured midbrain neurons. The reporter partitions to the cytoplasmic face of the cellular membranes, including the plasma membrane throughout the neurons and fluorescence is stable over 30-40 min of repeated excitation showing less than 10\% decrease in mbYFPQS fluorescence compared to baseline. The mbYFPQS has similar chloride sensitivity (k 50 = 41 mM) but has a shifted pKa compared to the unpalmitoylated YFPQS variant (cytYFPQS) that remains in the cytoplasm when expressed in midbrain neurons. Changes in mbYFPQS fluorescence were induced by the GABA A agonist muscimol and were similar in the soma and processes of the midbrain neurons. Amphetamine also increased mbYFPQS fluorescence in a subpopulation of cultured midbrain neurons that was reversed by the selective dopamine transporter (DAT) inhibitor, GBR12909, indicating that mbYFPQS is sensitive enough to detect endogenous DAT activity in midbrain dopamine (DA) neurons. Conclusions/Significance: The mbYFPQS biosensor is a sensitive tool to study modulation of intracellular chloride levels in neuronal processes and is particularly advantageous for simultaneous whole-cell patch clamp and live-cell imaging experiments. {\copyright} 2012 Watts et al.} } @article{pittir22239, month = {June}, title = {VoIP for Telerehabilitation: A Pilot Usability Study for HIPAA Compliance}, author = {Valerie R Watzlaf and Briana Ondich}, publisher = {University Library System, University of Pittsburgh}, year = {2012}, pages = {33 -- 36}, journal = {International Journal of Telerehabilitation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22239/}, abstract = {{\ensuremath{<}}jats:p{\ensuremath{>}}Consumer-based, free Voice and video over the Internet Protocol (VoIP) software systems such as Skype and others are used by health care providers to deliver telerehabilitation and other health-related services to clients. Privacy and security applications as well as HIPAA compliance within these protocols have been questioned by practitioners, health information managers, and other healthcare entities. This pilot usability study examined whether four respondents who used the top three, free consumer-based, VoIP software systems perceived these VoIP technologies to be private, secure, and HIPAA compliant;  most did not.  While the pilot study limitations include the number of respondents and systems assessed, the protocol can be applied to future research and replicated for instructional purposes.  Recommendations are provided for VoIP companies, providers, and users. {\ensuremath{<}}/jats:p{\ensuremath{>}}} } @article{pittir24407, volume = {19}, number = {10}, month = {October}, author = {M Wecker and P Gilbert and N Russell and J Hural and M Allen and M Pensiero and J Chulay and YL Chiu and SSA Karim and DS Burke}, title = {Phase I safety and immunogenicity evaluations of an alphavirus replicon HIV-1 subtype C gag vaccine in healthy HIV-1-uninfected adults}, journal = {Clinical and Vaccine Immunology}, pages = {1651 -- 1660}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/24407/}, abstract = {On the basis of positive preclinical data, we evaluated the safety and immunogenicity of an alphavirus replicon HIV-1 subtype C gag vaccine (AVX101), expressing a nonmyristoylated form of Gag, in two double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials in healthy HIV-1-uninfected adults. Escalating doses of AVX101 or placebo were administered subcutaneously to participants in the United States and Southern Africa. Because of vaccine stability issues, the first trial was halted prior to completion of all dose levels and a second trial was implemented. The second trial was also stopped prematurely due to documentation issues with the contract manufacturer. Safety and immunogenicity were evaluated through assessments of reactogenicity, reports of adverse events, and assessment of replication-competent and Venezuelan equine encephalitis (VEE) viremia. Immunogenicity was measured using the following assays: enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), chromium 51 ( 51Cr)-release cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL), gamma interferon (IFN-{\ensuremath{\gamma}}) ELISpot, intracellular cytokine staining (ICS), and lymphoproliferation assay (LPA). Anti-vector antibodies were also measured. AVX101 was well tolerated and exhibited only modest local reactogenicity. There were 5 serious adverse events reported during the trials; none were considered related to the study vaccine. In contrast to the preclinical data, immune responses in humans were limited. Only low levels of binding antibodies and T-cell responses were seen at the highest doses. This trial also highlighted the difficulties in developing a novel vector for HIV. Copyright {\copyright} 2012, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.} } @article{pittir18894, volume = {120}, number = {1-3}, month = {January}, author = {C Wei and TE Guadamuz and SH Lim and Y Huang and S Koe}, title = {Patterns and levels of illicit drug use among men who have sex with men in Asia}, journal = {Drug and Alcohol Dependence}, pages = {246 -- 249}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18894/}, abstract = {Background: The emergence of gay communities in Asia may predispose men who have sex with men (MSM) to drug use. We describe patterns and levels of illicit drug use, and characteristics of stimulant drug users among MSM in Asia. Methods: A cross-sectional Internet-based survey was conducted among 10,861 participants recruited through online methods. Pearson's chi-square tests were used to compare patterns of drug use by participants' HIV status. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify significant correlates of stimulant drug use. Results: Overall, 16.7\% of participants reported recreational drug use in the past 6 months. Ecstasy (8.1\%) and Viagra (7.9\%) were the most prevalent drugs being used. HIV-positive MSM reported significantly higher levels of individual drug use and polydrug use compared to HIV-negative/unknown MSM. Being gay (AOR = 1.62, 95\% CI: 1.28, 2.05), having casual male partners only or having both casual and regular partners (AOR = 2.05, 95\% CI: 1.66, 2.53; AOR = 2.97, 95\% CI: 2.39, 3.69), HIV-positive status (AOR = 4.54, 95\% CI: 3.63, 5.69), sex work (AOR = 1.52, 95\% CI: 1.19, 1.93), and having more gay friends (" Some" vs. "A few/None" AOR = 1.98, 95\% CI: 1.62, 2.43; "Most/All" vs. "A few/None" AOR = 4.59, 95\% CI: 3.77, 5.59) were independently associated with stimulant drug use. Conclusions: Our findings point to the urgency of incorporating substance use prevention and treatment into current HIV prevention activities in Asia, which must use a harm reduction approach and galvanize dignity. {\copyright} 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd.} } @article{pittir18896, volume = {39}, number = {4}, month = {April}, author = {C Wei and TE Guadamuz and SH Lim and S Koe}, title = {Sexual transmission behaviors and serodiscordant partnerships among HIV-positive men who have sex with men in Asia}, journal = {Sexually Transmitted Diseases}, pages = {312 -- 315}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18896/}, abstract = {We described sexual transmission behaviors and serodiscordant partnerships among an online sample of HIV-positive men who have sex with men (N = 416) in Asia. High rates of unprotected anal intercourse (74.8\%), serodiscordant partnerships (68.5\%), and unprotected sex within serodiscordant partnerships ({$\sim$}60.0\%) were reported. Increased number of partners, meeting partners on the Internet, drug use before sex, and not knowing ones viral load were associated with unprotected anal intercourse. Efforts to develop and scale up biomedical and behavioral interventions for HIV-positive men who have sex with men in Asia are needed. {\copyright} 2012 Public Health Agency of Canada and Government of Canada All rights reserved.} } @article{pittir18897, volume = {16}, number = {7}, month = {October}, author = {C Wei and SH Lim and TE Guadamuz and S Koe}, title = {HIV Disclosure and sexual transmission behaviors among an internet sample of HIV-positive men who have sex with men in Asia: Implications for prevention with positives}, journal = {AIDS and Behavior}, pages = {1970 -- 1978}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18897/}, abstract = {The relationship between HIV disclosure and sexual transmission behaviors, and factors that influence disclosure are unknown among HIV-positive men who have sex with men (MSM) in Asia. We describe disclosure practices and sexual transmission behaviors, and correlates of disclosure among this group of MSM in Asia. A crosssectional multi-country online survey was conducted among 416 HIV-positive MSM. Data on disclosure status, HIV-related risk behaviors, disease status, and other characteristics were collected. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify significant correlates of disclosure. Only 7.0\% reported having disclosed their HIV status to all partners while 67.3\% did not disclose to any. The majority (86.5\%) of non-disclosing participants had multiple partners and unprotected insertive or receptive anal intercourse with their partners (67.5\%). Non-disclosure was significantly associated with non-disclosure from partners (AOR = 37.13, 95\% CI: 17.22, 80.07), having casual partners only (AOR = 1.91, 95\% CI: 1.03, 3.53), drug use before sex on a weekly basis (AOR: 6.48, 95\% CI: 0.99, 42.50), being diagnosed with HIV between 1 and 5 years ago (AOR = 2.23, 95\% CI: 1.05, 4.74), and not knowing one's viral load (AOR = 2.80, 95\% CI: 1.00, 7.83). Given the high HIV prevalence and incidence among MSM in Asia, it is imperative to include Prevention with Positives for MSM. Interventions on disclosure should not solely focus on HIV-positive men but also need to include their sexual partners and HIV-negative men. {\copyright} Springer Science+Business Media, LLC 2011.} } @article{pittir18898, volume = {88}, number = {8}, month = {December}, author = {Chongyi Wei and Willi McFarland and Grant N Colfax and Vincent Fuqua and H Fisher Raymond}, title = {Reaching black men who have sex with men: a comparison between respondent-driven sampling and time-location sampling}, journal = {Sexually Transmitted Infections}, pages = {622 -- 626}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18898/} } @unpublished{pittir10508, month = {January}, title = {The Relationship between Cardiovascular Fitness and Gray Matter Volume in Healthy Adults}, author = {Andrea Weinstein}, year = {2012}, keywords = {cardiorespiratory fitness; executive function; voxel-based morphometry; cortical volume; prefrontal cortex; mediation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10508/}, abstract = {Aging is marked by a decline in cognitive function, which is often preceded by losses in gray matter volume. Fortunately, higher cardiovascular fitness (CVF) levels are associated with an attenuation of age-related losses in gray matter volume and a reduced risk for cognitive impairment. Despite these links, we have only a basic understanding of whether fitness-related increases in gray matter volume lead to elevated cognitive function. In this cross-sectional study, we examined whether the association between higher aerobic fitness levels and elevated executive function was mediated by greater gray matter volume in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). One hundred and forty-two older adults (mean age = 66.6 years) completed three classic executive function tasks yielding five measures of ability: incongruent trial reaction time (RT) and percent interference from the Stroop task, number of perseverative errors in the Wisconsin Card Sorting Task (WCST), and forward and backwards digit span length. In addition, participants completed structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans and CVF assessments. Gray matter volume in the PFC was assessed using an optimized voxel-based morphometry approach. Consistent with our predictions, higher fitness levels were associated with (a) better performance on both the Stroop and WCST tasks, and (b) greater gray matter volume in several regions, including the dorsolateral PFC (DLPFC). Bilateral volume of the inferior frontal gyrus and precentral gyrus mediated the relationship between CVF and Stroop performance while a non-overlapping region in the left middle frontal gyrus mediated the association between CVF and WCST perseverative errors. Control analyses using a non-prefrontal brain region (right occipital lobe) as a mediator and a task not heavily reliant upon executive function (vocabulary) yielded null results in mediation analyses. This dissociation of brain areas suggests that higher fitness levels are associated with better executive function by means of greater gray matter volume in specific areas of the PFC. } } @inproceedings{pittir13442, month = {December}, title = {When is electromagnetic spectrum fungible?}, author = {M Weiss and P Krishnamurthy and LE Doyle and K Pelechrinis}, year = {2012}, pages = {349 -- 357}, journal = {2012 IEEE International Symposium on Dynamic Spectrum Access Networks, DYSPAN 2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13442/}, abstract = {Fungibility is a common assumption for market-based spectrum management. In this paper, we explore the dimensions of practical fungibility of frequency bands from the point of view of the spectrum buyer who intends to use it. The exploration shows that fungibility is a complex, multidimensional concept that cannot casually be assumed. We develop two ideas for quantifying fungibility-(i) of a fungibility space in which the 'distance' between two slices of spectrum provides score of fungibility and (ii) a probabilistic score of fungibility. {\copyright} 2012 IEEE.} } @article{pittir11383, volume = {36}, number = {4}, month = {May}, author = {MBH Weiss and M Altamimi and L Cui}, title = {Spatio-temporal spectrum modeling: Taxonomy and economic evaluation of context acquisition}, journal = {Telecommunications Policy}, pages = {335 -- 348}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11383/}, abstract = {Much of the research in dynamic spectrum access (DSA) has focused on opportunistic access in the temporal domain. While this has been quite useful in establishing the technical feasibility of DSA systems, it has missed large sections of the overall DSA problem space. This paper argues that the spatio-temporal operating context of specific environments matters to the selection of the appropriate technology for learning context information. It identifies twelve potential operating environments and compares four context awareness approaches (on-board sensing, databases, sensor network, and cooperative sharing) for these environments. In order for operators, regulators, and users to be interested in deploying DSA based networks, the expected costs should be in proportion to what the users are realistically willing to pay for services. Consequently, it is important to conduct cost analysis for different DSA approaches in parallel with the technical research. Regulators and major stakeholders should pay attention to the operating environment of DSA systems when determining which approaches to context learning to encourage. The incremental capital costs; over a basic software radio; have been compared for the four context awareness approaches after an estimation analysis for each cost component. Since DSA is still a relatively new research field, there is a lot of uncertainty associated with incremental cost analyses. As a result, the cost analysis is parameterized to allow for explicit reasoning about the bounds of cost components. {\copyright} 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.} } @inproceedings{pittir11451, month = {November}, title = {Spectrum trading with interference rights}, author = {MBH Weiss and L Cui}, year = {2012}, pages = {135 -- 140}, journal = {Proceedings of the 2012 7th International ICST Conference on Cognitive Radio Oriented Wireless Networks and Communications, CROWNCOM 2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11451/}, abstract = {Spectrum, which supports the transmission of sound, data, and video, is critical to the implementation of mobile connected society. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has been seeking policies that offer more spectrum access opportunities, such as secondary spectrum market and TV white space. In this paper, we develop the idea of trading spectrum in Interference Right. It means to alleviate the spectrum scarcity by cooperative spectrum usage and making the spectrum market as liquid as possible. We use some plausible case studies to illustrate the characteristics and features. The paper therefore includes a detailed description of trading procedures along with some first order quantitative modeling of the cases coupled with qualitative analysis. {\copyright} 2012 ICST.} } @inproceedings{pittir13443, month = {December}, title = {The hinges of destiny: A decision analysis of spectrum users' choices}, author = {MBH Weiss and L Cui}, year = {2012}, pages = {171 -- 179}, journal = {2012 IEEE International Symposium on Dynamic Spectrum Access Networks, DYSPAN 2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13443/}, abstract = {Dynamic spectrum access (DSA) has been a technological approach that has received considerable research attention over the past decade. At the same time, the relative paucity of deployed systems using some of these technologies speaks to either a mismatch between research priorities and practical needs, regulatory immaturity, technology immaturity, or a combination of these. In this paper, we examine the business decision that a spectrum entrant must take with regard to technology choice. We use a simple decision-analytic framework using standard Net Present Value (NPV) calculations to analyze that decision. Our conclusion is that, the spectrum decision is time dependent. Exclusive use offers a higher NPV than the alternatives in the long run, but it takes time for exclusive use to become the dominant choice. Cooperative sharing provides the second highest NPV when the spectrum market is liquid, followed by opportunistic sharing under optimistic spectrum availability and contention assumptions. If our assumptions are relatively close to reality, it is therefore not surprising that we do not see greater adoption of DSA technologies-it is not the top choice for spectrum entrants with a long term view. The second choice, cooperative sharing, does occur, but in the form of MVNO agreements. The last option for a spectrum entrant is opportunistic sharing. Why should an entrant settle for the third best approach? {\copyright} 2012 IEEE.} } @inproceedings{pittir13609, booktitle = {Telecommunications Policy Research Conference}, month = {September}, title = {Enforcement in Dynamic Spectrum Access Systems}, author = {Martin BH Weiss and William H Lehr and Liu Cui and Mohammed Altamaimi}, publisher = {Telecommunications Policy Research Conference}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Spectrum, Telecommunications, Cognitive, Radio, Dynamic, Spectrum, Access, Enforcement}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13609/}, abstract = {The spectrum access rights granted by the Federal government to spectrum users come with the expectation of protection from harmful interference. As a consequence of the growth of wireless demand and services of all types, technical progress enabling smart agile radio networks, and on-going spectrum management reform, there is both a need and opportunity to use and share spectrum more intensively and dynamically. A key element of any framework for managing harmful interference is the mechanism for enforcement of those rights. Since the rights to use spectrum and to protection from harmful interference vary by band (licensed/unlicensed, legacy/newly reformed) and type of use/users (primary/secondary, overlay/underlay), it is reasonable to expect that the enforcement mechanisms may need to vary as well. In this paper, we present a taxonomy for evaluating alternative mechanisms for enforcing interference protection for spectrum usage rights, with special attention to the potential changes that may be expected from wider deployment of Dynamic Spectrum Access (DSA) systems. Our exploration of how the design of the enforcement regime interacts with and influences the incentives of radio operators under different rights regimes and market scenarios is intended to assist in refining thinking about appropriate access rights regimes and how best to incentivize investment and growth in more efficient and valuable uses of the radio frequency spectrum.} } @unpublished{pittir11226, month = {July}, title = {Situating Academic Readers: Emotion and Narrative in the Classroom}, author = {Emily Wender}, year = {2012}, keywords = {emotion, English, Reader Response, pedagogy, relationship, classroom space, language, English Education}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11226/}, abstract = {This dissertation seeks to address gaps in the teaching of academic reading at the middle, secondary, and university level by examining the pedagogical potential of emotion as a direct category of analysis. Despite a recent interdisciplinary resurgence in emotion, emotion itself remains untheorized in dominant pedagogical approaches, often associated with accounts of private reading, completed outside of the requirements of school. This dissertation argues that emotion is a productive category to explore in the classroom, and that direct attention to emotion can open up avenues of analysis new to readers. In order to address how approaches to emotion could deepen academic reading, I designed a qualitative study of a sophomore English class in an urban high school. My analysis of recorded class discussions, student writing, transcribed conversations, student surveys, teacher interviews, lesson plans, and a daily research journal worked backwards, isolating moments of academic reading moves in order to analyze the pedagogical methods that invited these particular responses. In this action research with students, I define emotion through a rhetorical lens, based on the cultural critic Sara Ahmed, as our readings of how we meet objects of our attention. I adopt social constructivist approaches to language ? as invention, always situated within contexts, and continually shaping emotion. I conclude that emphasis on emotion leads students to increased awareness of self, text, and others. Specifically, students situate speakers and characters in relation to their important objects. While defining those relationships, students investigate ambiguities in language use. At the same time, students position themselves in relation to the textual relationships they have mapped. Drawing on the transactional theory of Louise Rosenblatt, this dissertation considers acts of classroom reading as powerful events which include student readers and texts as participants. Ultimately, emotion as a direct category of analysis leads students to practices of academic reading based on relationships, which I offer as a redefinition of ?close reading.?} } @unpublished{pittir12170, month = {June}, title = {Bisexual Women's Mental Health Research: A Community-based, Social Justice Approach}, author = {Kimberly Westrick}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Bisexual, Woman, Women, Sexual Minority, Mental Health, Depression, Anxiety, Suicide, Queer}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12170/}, abstract = {The goals of this paper were to review the public health literature on bisexual women?s mental health, discuss the strengths and limitations of the research and propose a social justice framework for a future research agenda. The social justice framework includes Community-Based Participatory Research and the use of an intersectional approach. The literature has found bisexual women to have higher rates of depression, anxiety and suicidality than heterosexual and lesbian women, indicating the public health significance of this topic. Reported protective factors of mental health for bisexual women were social support and connectedness to the lesbian gay bisexual transgender community. Risk factors were discrimination, lack of community and social support, poverty, substance use, self-harm and eating Disorders. Limitations of the research include but are not limited to inconsistent categorization of sex category and gender expression, lack of population-based random samples, and lack of longitudinal data. Current research falsely approaches bisexual women as an unstratified and monolithic community, defaulting to unmarked privileged categories. The small body of research on this topic is lacking but warrants further investigation through longitudinal and qualitative community-driven studies.} } @unpublished{pittir10477, month = {February}, title = {SYNTHESIS AND EVALUATION OF METAL-SILICA CORE-SHELL NANOMATERIALS FOR CATALYSIS}, author = {Lu Whaley}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Core shell, high temperature stable, heterogeneous catalysis}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10477/}, abstract = {Nanocatalysts have drawn considerable interest because of their high selectivity and reactivity compared with conventional catalysts. However, the catalyst deactivation due to the sintering under moderate/high temperature operation and coke formation in hydrocarbon participating systems poses a challenge for their usage. Our work focuses on solving the above issues by designing and developing a series of metal core silica shell materials. The fundamental understanding of core shell materials is facilitated by systematic investigation via synthesis, characterization (XRD, TEM, BET, EDX) and catalytic tests (CO oxidation, ethylene hydrogenation, CO methanation and catalytic partial oxidation of methane). The synthesis and post-treatment methods for this newly developed core shell material are optimized and standardized. We demonstrate fine control over the key structural elements of nickel core silica shell material. Two different nickel core silica shell structures are obtained with the distinction of a pronounced cavity in the core. The synthesis route is not limited to nickel particles, but also applied for a range of other metals (e.g. Cu, Co, Pd). The pore size of silica shell is around {\texttt{\char126}}1nm independent of the shell thickness and structure difference. The thermal stability of nickel particles as a function of particle size as well as silica support is thoroughly studied. The nickel particles in core shell materials are stabilized under 5nm up to 1000?C with the comparison of strong sintering of unprotected nickel particles beyond 10nm as low as 500?C. The stable core shell material not only shows its advantage for stable operation under high temperature reactive condition ({\ensuremath{>}}800?C), but also possesses the highly coking resistant property in fuel participating reactions. Even though the presence of silica shell is beneficial for improving stability of nickel particles, it brings up significant mass transfer limitation when shell thickness is beyond 10nm. We not only demonstrate the capability to synthesize the well controlled nanocatalysts with high temperature stability and minimal mass transfer limitation, but also understand the structure correlated reactivity in several reaction systems. Additionally, we highlight the correlation between sintering, mass transfer and coking properties of the catalysts.} } @unpublished{pittir10891, month = {February}, title = {EGFRvIII expression and signaling in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma}, author = {Sarah Wheeler}, year = {2012}, keywords = {cancer, EGFR, Src, STAT3, EGFRvIII, head and neck cancer}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10891/}, abstract = {Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is the sixth most common cancer in the United States and is even more prevalent in many developing countries. The mortality rate of {\texttt{\char126}}50\% has remained unchanged for decades emphasizing the need to increase our understanding of HNSCC biology. Overexpression of EGFR is found in up to 90\% of HNSCC cases and has been implicated in oncogenicity by providing sustained signaling for cell proliferation, anti-apoptosis, angiogenesis and metastasis. Cetuximab (an EGFR specific monoclonal antibody) was FDA-approved for HNSCC in 2006 making it the first new HNSCC treatment in 45 years. However, the clinical response to cetuximab is only 10\%, indicating the need to better understand the mechanisms of EGFR biology in HNSCC and investigate the mechanisms of tumor growth in the presence of wtEGFR blockade. An altered form of EGFR, EGFRvIII, lacks exons 2-7 and is a probable mechanism of cetuximab resistance. We previously reported EGFRvIII to be expressed in {\texttt{\char126}}40\% of HNSCC tumors where HNSCC cells expressing EGFRvIII were relatively resistant to cetuximab treatment in xenograft models. The present study was undertaken to determine the prognostic significance of EGFR amplification, mRNA and protein levels in HNSCC and to better understand the biology of EGFRvIII in HNSCC. We found that EGFR protein levels and phosphorylation status are the best indicators of patient prognosis. Utilizing the Cancer Genome Atlas data and clinical samples we found that EGFRvIII expression in GBM is often a DNA or transcriptional aberration but in HNSCC it is more likely a splice variant. We developed HNSCC cell lines expressing EGFRvIII and utilizing these models in vitro and in vivo, we were able to determine that EGFRvIII increases HNSCC invasion and migration via STAT3 and knockdown of STAT3 using siRNA or a transcriptional decoy abrogated invasion and migration. Akt was involved in EGFRvIII-mediated proliferation, but not invasion. SFKs were also found to be involved in EGFRvIII invasion and migration, specifically Lyn. In vivo xenograft growth was significantly inhibited by treatment with the SFK inhibitor dasatinib. } } @unpublished{pittir14465, month = {October}, title = {Surviving Lung Cancer: Medication-Taking and Oral Targeted Therapy}, author = {Karen E. Wickersham}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Medication-taking; grounded theory; targeted therapy; cancer survivorship; non-small cell lung cancer}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14465/}, abstract = {Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors increase survival and improve quality of life for patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Because oral EGFR inhibitors are a new therapy, the implications for medication-taking are unknown. We used grounded theory to explore the process of medication-taking for patients with NSCLC who were receiving therapy with oral EGFR inhibitors. We sought to describe the medication-taking process and to identify factors influencing medication-taking. We enrolled men and women from a National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center aged 18 years or older with NSCLC receiving oral EGFR inhibitors who were able to speak, read, and understand English. Exclusion criteria included central nervous system metastases and evidence of cognitive impairment as assessed by the Mini-Mental Status Exam. Thirteen participants were purposively selected for variation in gender (5 men/8 women), race/ethnicity (2 non-whites), age (52-83 years), time in therapy (1 week to 6 or more years), dose reductions (n = 5), and therapy discontinuation (n = 2). Theoretical sampling focused on age and health insurance carrier. Data were collected through 32 semiformal and brief interviews concerning one?s medication-taking behaviors related to therapy with oral EGFR inhibitors. We employed constant comparative and dimensional analyses. The basic psychosocial process, Surviving Lung Cancer, which participants framed within the recognition of NSCLC as a life-limiting illness without cure, included a dynamic process of (a) Deciding to take targeted therapy with erlotinib, (b) Preparing for erlotinib, and (c) Treating lung cancer as a chronic condition. Participants described thresholds that may result in stopping erlotinib, including side effects and cost. Men described taking erlotinib therapy in partnership with their spouse; most women managed erlotinib alone. These findings may provide the theoretical basis for developing patient-centered interventions to address medication-taking.} } @article{pittir14175, volume = {8}, number = {4}, month = {April}, title = {Common variants at 9p21 and 8q22 are associated with increased susceptibility to optic nerve degeneration in glaucoma}, author = {JL Wiggs and BL Yaspan and MA Hauser and JH Kang and RR Allingham and LM Olson and W Abdrabou and BJ Fan and DY Wang and W Brodeur and DL Budenz and J Caprioli and A Crenshaw and K Crooks and E DelBono and KF Doheny and DS Friedman and D Gaasterland and T Gaasterland and C Laurie and RK Lee and PR Lichter and S Loomis and Y Liu and FA Medeiros and C McCarty and D Mirel and SE Moroi and DC Musch and A Realini and FW Rozsa and JS Schuman and K Scott and K Singh and JD Stein and EH Trager and P VanVeldhuisen and D Vollrath and G Wollstein and S Yoneyama and K Zhang and RN Weinreb and J Ernst and M Kellis and T Masuda and D Zack and JE Richards and M Pericak-Vance and LR Pasquale and JL Haines}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS Genetics}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14175/}, abstract = {Optic nerve degeneration caused by glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness worldwide. Patients affected by the normal-pressure form of glaucoma are more likely to harbor risk alleles for glaucoma-related optic nerve disease. We have performed a meta-analysis of two independent genome-wide association studies for primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) followed by a normal-pressure glaucoma (NPG, defined by intraocular pressure (IOP) less than 22 mmHg) subgroup analysis. The single-nucleotide polymorphisms that showed the most significant associations were tested for association with a second form of glaucoma, exfoliation-syndrome glaucoma. The overall meta-analysis of the GLAUGEN and NEIGHBOR dataset results (3,146 cases and 3,487 controls) identified significant associations between two loci and POAG: the CDKN2BAS region on 9p21 (rs2157719 [G], OR = 0.69 [95\%CI 0.63-0.75], p = 1.86{$\times$}10-18), and the SIX1/SIX6 region on chromosome 14q23 (rs10483727 [A], OR = 1.32 [95\%CI 1.21-1.43], p = 3.87{$\times$}10-11). In sub-group analysis two loci were significantly associated with NPG: 9p21 containing the CDKN2BAS gene (rs2157719 [G], OR = 0.58 [95\% CI 0.50-0.67], p = 1.17{$\times$}10-12) and a probable regulatory region on 8q22 (rs284489 [G], OR = 0.62 [95\% CI 0.53-0.72], p = 8.88{$\times$}10-10). Both NPG loci were also nominally associated with a second type of glaucoma, exfoliation syndrome glaucoma (rs2157719 [G], OR = 0.59 [95\% CI 0.41-0.87], p = 0.004 and rs284489 [G], OR = 0.76 [95\% CI 0.54-1.06], p = 0.021), suggesting that these loci might contribute more generally to optic nerve degeneration in glaucoma. Because both loci influence transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) signaling, we performed a genomic pathway analysis that showed an association between the TGF-beta pathway and NPG (permuted p = 0.009). These results suggest that neuro-protective therapies targeting TGF-beta signaling could be effective for multiple forms of glaucoma. {\copyright} 2012 Wiggs et al.} } @article{pittir38892, volume = {2012}, month = {August}, author = {Kristine A. Wilckens and Kirk I. Erickson and Mark E. Wheeler}, title = {Age-Related Decline in Controlled Retrieval: The Role of the PFC and Sleep}, publisher = {Hindawi Limited}, journal = {Neural Plasticity}, pages = {1--15}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/38892/}, abstract = {Age-related cognitive impairments often include difficulty retrieving memories, particularly those that rely on executive control. In this paper we discuss the influence of the prefrontal cortex on memory retrieval, and the specific memory processes associated with the prefrontal cortex that decline in late adulthood. We conclude that preretrieval processes associated with preparation to make a memory judgment are impaired, leading to greater reliance on postretrieval processes. This is consistent with the view that impairments in executive control significantly contribute to deficits in controlled retrieval. Finally, we discuss age-related changes in sleep as a potential mechanism that contributes to deficiencies in executive control that are important for efficient retrieval. The sleep literature points to the importance of slow-wave sleep in restoration of prefrontal cortex function. Given that slow-wave sleep significantly declines with age, we hypothesize that age-related changes in slow-wave sleep could mediate age-related decline in executive control, manifesting a robust deficit in controlled memory retrieval processes. Interventions, like physical activity, that improve sleep could be effective methods to enhance controlled memory processes in late life.} } @article{pittir12134, volume = {62}, number = {1-4}, month = {January}, author = {Sharon Wiles-Young and Christy Roysdon and John Barnett}, title = {No Substantial Penalty for Withdrawal: The PALCI Shared Print Journal Archive}, publisher = {Informa UK Limited}, year = {2012}, journal = {The Serials Librarian}, pages = {79 -- 86}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12134/} } @article{pittir15894, volume = {7}, number = {8}, month = {August}, title = {Tissue specific induction of p62/sqstm1 by farnesoid X receptor}, author = {JA Williams and AM Thomas and G Li and B Kong and L Zhan and Y Inaba and W Xie and WX Ding and GL Guo}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15894/}, abstract = {Background: Farnesoid X Receptor (FXR) is a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily and is a ligand-activated transcription factor essential for maintaining liver and intestinal homeostasis. FXR is protective against carcinogenesis and inflammation in liver and intestine as demonstrated by the development of inflammation and tumors in the liver and intestine of FXR knock-out mice. However, mechanisms for the protective effects of FXR are not completely understood. This study reports a novel role of FXR in regulating expression of Sqstm1, which encodes for p62 protein. p62 plays an important role in maintaining cellular homeostasis through selective autophagy and activating signal transduction pathways, such as NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B to support cell survival and caspase-8 to initiate apoptosis. FXR regulation of Sqstm1 may serve as a protective mechanism. Methods and Results: This study showed that FXR bound to the Sqstm1 gene in both mouse livers and ileums as determined by chromatin immunoprecipitation. In addition, FXR activation enhanced transcriptional activation of Sqstm1 in vitro. However, wild-type mice treated with GW4064, a synthetic FXR ligand, showed that FXR activation induced mRNA and protein expression of Sqstm1/p62 in ileum, but not in liver. Interestingly, FXR-transgenic mice showed induced mRNA expression of Sqstm1 in both liver and ileum compared to wild-type mice. Conclusions: Our current study has identified a novel role of FXR in regulating the expression of p62, a key factor in protein degradation and cell signaling. Regulation of p62 by FXR indicates tissue-specific and gene-dosage effects. Furthermore, FXR-mediated induction of p62 may implicate a protective mechanism of FXR. {\copyright} 2012 Williams et al.} } @unpublished{pittir10867, month = {February}, title = {Marx and Morality}, author = {Vanessa Wills}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Marx, morality, moral philosophy, political philosophy, alienation, human nature, history of modern philosophy, Engels, Marxism}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10867/}, abstract = {Several influential interpretations of Marx claim his theory of social change is amoral, that Marx had only an incoherent moral conception, or that Marx had moral commitments early in his career but abandoned them, perhaps at the writing of The German Ideology but certainly before Capital. I argue that none of these is correct. Morality, for Marx, is thoroughly historical: it is produced through human activity; whether particular actions or social arrangements are moral or immoral varies at different historical stages; and its realization in human practice and the closure of the gap between "is" and "ought" would lead to the abolition of morality as the theorization of that gap. Marx determines what society would be best for human beings and which existing forces and historical processes could realize it. He morally evaluates social systems, theories, and human actions with respect to whether they promote or inhibit the increase of human beings' rational control over their own environment and social development, and the historical emergence of "rich individuals". Famously, Marx refers to morality as "ideology". Interpreters of Marx have assumed that ideology is always reactionary or misleading. However, ideology plays an important role in the development of revolutionary consciousness. Ideology can serve as a bulwark of reaction; however, Marx shows that the proletariat must develop its own ideology to theorize social contradictions and determine how they can be overcome to allow for a conscious, democratic, and rational control over human beings' social existence. In the first chapter of my dissertation, I provide a detailed overview of Marx's moral theory and its basis in his conception of human nature and alienation. The remainder of the dissertation follows the development of Marx's moral thought chronologically, starting with Marx's early works including The Economic and Philosophic Manuscripts of 1844 and The German Ideology, continuing with the period including works such as The Communist Manifesto and On the Poverty of Philosophy, and ending with Marx's late work including the Grundrisse and Capital. I conclude by drawing together the study's main themes and suggesting avenues for further research. } } @unpublished{pittir13324, month = {August}, title = {VALIDATION OF OMNI RPE AND PREFERRED METHOD OF REGULATING EXERCISE INTENSITY IN OBESE ADULTS}, author = {Kristofer S. Wisniewski}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Perceived Exertion Concurrent and Construct Validity Preferred Exercise RPE Intensity Regulation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13324/}, abstract = {The Adult OMNI-Walk/Run RPE Scale (OMNI RPE) has not been validated in overweight and obese adults. In addition, the preferred method that overweight and obese individuals use to self-regulate exercise intensity is unknown. PURPOSE: The primary purpose of this investigation was to examine concurrent and construct validity of the OMNI RPE in overweight and obese adults. The secondary purpose of the present study was to examine the preferred method of self-regulating exercise intensity (SRE) in this same cohort. METHODS: Sixty (males, n = 22, age = 37.18 {$\pm$} 9.70 yrs; females, n = 38, age = 34.45 {$\pm$} 7.92 yrs) sedentary to physically active overweight or obese adults participated in this study. A single observation, cross-sectional research design was employed where subjects performed a progressively incremented submaximal graded treadmill exercise test to 85\% of age predicted maximal heart rate (APMHR) followed by a questionnaire-based interview. HR and Oxygen consumption (VO2) were regressed against OMNI RPE responses from every second minute of exercise to examine concurrent validity. OMNI RPE responses were regressed against Borg RPE to establish construct validity. Subjects completed interview-led questionnaires post-exercise to assess physical activity history and preferred method of SRE. RESULTS: A strong relation between OMNI RPE and HR (r = 0.866; p {\ensuremath{<}} 0.001) was observed for the total sample. A moderate-strong relation between OMNI RPE and VO2 (r = 0.731; p {\ensuremath{<}} 0.001) was also observed. OMNI RPE displayed a very strong relation with Borg RPE (r = 0.963; p {\ensuremath{<}} 0.001). In the past, more subjects (88.2\%) reported using a perceptual method to SRE than the 11.8\% who reported using a HR method (p {\ensuremath{<}} 0.001). There was no difference in subject?s preference in the future. CONCLUSION: Concurrent and construct validity of OMNI RPE were established in overweight and obese adults. Therefore, OMNI RPE may be used in treadmill exercise testing in overweight and obese adults. In addition, more subjects previously used perceptual methods to SRE. However, there was no difference in preference for SRE in the future. The reason behind this finding is uncertain and warrants further investigation.} } @inproceedings{pittir33855, booktitle = {Western Pennsylvania West Virginia Chapter/ACRL Spring Conference 2012: Lead, Follow, or Get Out of the Way: Setting Your Pace as a Library Leader}, month = {June}, title = {The Knowledge Base: Managing Collective Use of Individual Expertise}, author = {Clare Withers and Alexis Stapp and Judith Brink}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/33855/}, abstract = {Creating and maintaining a knowledge base of policies, procedures, and answers to frequently asked questions can propel good service into great regardless of how the question comes in (f-f, email, chat). As academic reference desks shift to place the onus of public service interactions on to non-librarians, adhering to RUSA Guidelines is still possible with the creation of a knowledge-base of robust content.} } @article{pittir15655, volume = {93}, number = {10}, month = {October}, author = {R Wollstein and J Rodgers and T Ogden and J Loeffler and J Pearlman}, title = {A novel splint for proximal interphalangeal joint contractures: A case report}, journal = {Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation}, pages = {1856 -- 1859}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15655/}, abstract = {Wollstein R, Rodgers J, Ogden T, Loeffler J, Pearlman J. A novel splint for proximal interphalangeal joint contractures: a case report. Proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint contractures are notoriously difficult to treat. Best results are obtained with early mobilization and splinting, though a high level of adherence is critical for a good outcome. A new roll-on splint that aims to increase motion with minimal difficulty was used. The patient described here with moderate PIP joint contractures (30?-60?) was treated successfully using this splint. The splint design and therapy protocol are described. The patient was treated for 12 weeks with good adherence to therapy and splinting. Total active motion increased by 87\% in the index finger and 108\% in the ring finger. Grip, pinch, and tip-pinch strengths increased. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score improved from 26.7\% to 2.5\%. At 3 months, the patient returned to work. Though this case illustrates some of the advantages and disadvantages of the new splint, further study is necessary to evaluate the splint and compare it with other existing forms of treatment for PIP joint contractures. {\copyright} 2012 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine.} } @unpublished{pittir11759, month = {April}, title = {DELIVERY AND EXOCYTOSIS OF NEUROPEPTIDE VESICLES AT THE NERVE TERMINAL}, author = {Man Yan Wong}, year = {2012}, keywords = {DCVs, Drosophila, neuropeptides, vesicle, axonal transport}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11759/}, abstract = {Neuropeptides, which control emotion, behavior and body homeostasis, are released at nerve terminals through the exocytosis of dense-core vesicles (DCVs). Because neuropeptides are synthesized and packaged exclusively at the cell body, accurate and timely delivery of DCV to the distant nerve terminal, as well as tight regulation of neuropeptide release should be ensured to prevent the deprivation of releasable DCVs during activity. Traditionally, it was believed that DCVs are delivered to the nerve terminal exclusively through anterograde fast axonal transport. However, it is now known that DCVs continuously transit bidirectionally at nerve terminals that are highly branched with release sites located along strings of varicosities called en passant boutons. Therefore, it is not clear how DCV logistics operates to support neurosecretion. In addition, little is known about the release properties of neuropeptides in fully differentiated neurons. To address these issues, GFP-tagged neuropeptides were imaged in Drosophila melanogaster neuromuscular junction (NMJ) to study the routing and exocytosis behavior of DCVs in vivo. By using a newly developed optical technique, simultaneous photobleaching and imaging (SPAIM), to track single DCVs, it was found that DCVs circulate between the most distal bouton and the proximal axon. Neuropeptides are constantly delivered to en passant boutons via sporadic bidirectional capture of DCVs. These newly arrived DCVs can become releasable within minutes. Surprisingly, neuropeptides are discharged only partially and slowly from DCVs, suggesting that ?kiss-and-run? mode of exocytosis predominates over full fusion. Interestingly, these partially emptied DCVs can undergo multiple rounds of exocytosis, allowing some local recycling of DCVs and minimizing the need for the supply of new DCVs. Finally, it was found that DCVs are reloaded into en passant boutons after depolarization evoked-neuropeptide release by activity-dependent capture that is regulated through the ryanodine receptor-CamKII signaling pathway. Altogether, this thesis describes some elegant mechanisms utilized by the neuron that efficiently maintain neuropeptide stores at the distant and morphologically complex nerve terminal. } } @article{pittir29964, volume = {14}, number = {S1}, month = {December}, author = {Timothy C Wong and Diego Moguillansky and Kathryn Berlacher and Erik Schelbert}, title = {Cardiovascular magnetic resonance stress perfusion imaging predicts 1 year outcomes following equivocal stress testing}, publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC}, journal = {Journal of Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29964/} } @unpublished{pittir12038, month = {July}, title = {Parental Attitudes Toward Newborn Screening for Duchenne/Becker Muscular Dystrophy and Spinal Muscular Atrophy}, author = {Molly Wood}, year = {2012}, keywords = {duchenne becker muscular dystrophy spinal muscular atrophy DMD BMD SMA parent attitudes newborn screen screening NBS}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12038/}, abstract = {A sensitive and specific screen for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) has been clinically confirmed, but the acceptability of adding DMD to the newborn screening (NBS) program has been controversial due to a lack of evidence that early diagnosis improves clinical outcome. With promising new gene therapies currently in clinical trials, it is reasonable to consider NBS for DMD for early pharmaceutical intervention. It is our objective to assess parents? attitudes toward the acceptability of including DMD, the milder and allelic Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD), and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) in the NBS panel, as well as to determine which factors (early diagnosis, family planning, parent-child bonding, anxiety, decision regret, time to prepare) are the most influential in parents? opinions. Methods: Two cohorts were recruited separately and surveyed about their attitudes toward NBS for DMD/BMD/SMA. Expectant parents were recruited with no regard to family history, and their opinions were compared to those of parents of children with DMD, BMD, or SMA. Results: Of the 65 parents of children with DMD, BMD, or SMA that were surveyed, 63 (97\%) supported NBS for DMD/BMD/SMA, either as a mandatory screen or with parental permission. Of the 400 expectant parents surveyed, 369 (92.5\%) would have their child screened at birth for an incurable, life-shortening disease such as DMD/BMD/SMA. Expectant parents, especially those who would choose to have their child screened, viewed the benefits of early diagnosis (58.9\%) as the most influential factor in their decision. Conclusions: There is strong support for NBS for DMD/BMD/SMA in both cohorts, which is not contingent on further therapeutic development. The consideration of including non-treatable diseases in NBS should include consideration of parental opinions on the beneficence of screening. Although there is currently no direct medical benefit to early diagnosis in DMD/BMD/SMA, parents responded that early diagnosis could have other, less tangible benefits. Parental opinions, along with promising clinical trials, make the implementation of an optional screen ideal for DMD, BMD, and SMA. Public Health Importance: NBS is the foremost intersection of genetics and public health. It is imperative to involve public opinion when assessing the acceptability of adding a potentially controversial disease to a standard panel.} } @article{pittir24606, volume = {9}, number = {73}, month = {August}, author = {DP Word and DAT Cummings and DS Burke and S Iamsirithaworn and CD Laird}, title = {A nonlinear programming approach for estimation of transmission parameters in childhood infectious disease using a continuous time model}, journal = {Journal of the Royal Society Interface}, pages = {1983 -- 1987}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/24606/}, abstract = {Mathematical models can enhance our understanding of childhood infectious disease dynamics, but these models depend on appropriate parameter values that are often unknown and must be estimated from disease case data. In this paper, we develop a framework for efficient estimation of childhood infectious disease models with seasonal transmission parameters using continuous differential equations containing model and measurement noise. The problem is formulated using the simultaneous approach where all state variables are discretized, and the discretized differential equations are included as constraints, giving a large-scale algebraic nonlinear programming problem that is solved using a nonlinear primal-dual interior-point solver. The technique is demonstrated using measles case data from three different locations having different school holiday schedules, and our estimates of the seasonality of the transmission parameter show strong correlation to school term holidays. Our approach gives dramatic efficiency gains, showing a 40-400-fold reduction in solution time over other published methods. While our approach has an increased susceptibility to bias over techniques that integrate over the entire unknown state-space, a detailed simulation study shows no evidence of bias. Furthermore, the computational efficiency of our approach allows for investigation of a large model space compared with more computationally intensive approaches. {\copyright} 2012 The Royal Society.} } @article{pittir29792, volume = {13}, month = {December}, title = {Depletion of neutrophils in a protective model of pulmonary cryptococcosis results in increased IL-17A production by gamma/delta T cells}, author = {KL Wozniak and JK Kolls and FL Wormley}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Immunology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29792/}, abstract = {Protective responses in mice immunized with an interferon-gamma producing strain of Cryptococcus neoformans, H99{\ensuremath{\gamma}}, are associated with IL-17A production by neutrophils. Neutrophil depletion in H99{\ensuremath{\gamma}}-immunized mice did not affect pulmonary fungal burden, indicating that neutrophils are not required for clearance. However, we observed an increase in IL-17A in the lungs of neutrophil-depleted H99{\ensuremath{\gamma}} infected mice, which corresponded to an increase in IL-17A+ {\ensuremath{\gamma}}{\ensuremath{\delta}}+ T cells. Moreover, we observed increased IL-17A+/ CD3+ cells and IL-17A+/{\ensuremath{\gamma}}{\ensuremath{\delta}}+ cells, but decreased IL-17A+/Ly6G+ neutrophils in the lungs of IL-17 receptor (R)A deficient mice compared to wild-type mice. Increased production of IL-17A in neutropenic mice coincided with increased IL-6 and CXCL1, but not Th17 inducing cytokines TGF-{\ensuremath{\beta}}, IL-21 and IL-23. Concurrent depletion of neutrophils and {\ensuremath{\gamma}}{\ensuremath{\delta}}+ T cells reduced IL-17A levels. Our results suggest that {\ensuremath{\gamma}}{\ensuremath{\delta}}+ T cells mediate significant IL-17A production in neutropenic mice during the protective response to C. neoformans infection. {\copyright} 2012 Wozniak et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir12143, month = {June}, title = {Domestic Leverage: Member State Motives on Turkey Joining the EU}, author = {Michael Wright}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Turkey European Union Member States Accession EU enlargement domestic politics}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12143/}, abstract = {Turkey?s bid to join the European Union is fraught with political tension and questions of identity, values and norms. In some ways, it is seen as on the central battlefield of Huntington?s clash of civilizations. It is also a matter of security and economic politics, with great geopolitical implications. This research explores why member states support or oppose Turkish membership in the EU. This research investigates the Turkish membership policies of 15 EU member states from 1997 to 2006 and tests 32 hypotheses drawn from international relations theories and approaches. These include variables related to security, power, and wealth; identities, norms and values. In doing so it comes to some interesting conclusions and policy implications. Contrary to common perception, it is not about security, economics or power politics between states, nor is it primarily about Turkey?s ability to meet the Copenhagen criteria of EU membership. By and large, the politics of Turkey?s bid to join the EU are not about Turkey at all. Instead, it is about the domestic politics of immigration in some member states and other member states? own respect for human rights norms. The exception is Greece, which has a peculiar bilateral political dynamic with Turkey. Furthermore, this research finds that many more member states support Turkey than oppose its bid for membership. In finding a parsimonious model of predicting member states? policies, it develops policy options for Turkey to guide its difficult path for membership. Rather than attempting to be a security asset and valuable trading partner, Turkey needs to muck it up in member states? domestic politics, where the real challenges lie. Of course, it needs to meet the criteria for membership, but at the same time it should not prematurely give in to Cypriot demands, despite the EU?s urging for it to do so. } } @article{pittir18967, volume = {46}, number = {4}, month = {October}, author = {D Wu and D He}, title = {Exploring the further integration of machine translation in English-Chinese cross language information access}, journal = {Program}, pages = {429 -- 457}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18967/}, abstract = {Purpose: This paper seeks to examine the further integration of machine translation technologies with cross language information access in providing web users the capabilities of accessing information beyond language barriers. Machine translation and cross language information access are related technologies, and yet they have their own unique contributions in handling information in multiple languages. This paper aims to demonstrate that there are many opportunities to further integrate machine translation with cross language information access, and the combination can greatly empower web users in their information access. Design/methodology/approach: Using English and Chinese as the language pair for studying, this paper looks at machine translation in query translation-based cross language information access at multiple important aspects, which include query translation, relevance feedback, interactive cross language information access, out-of-vocabulary term translation, and data fusion. The goal is to obtain more insights about the wide range usages of machine translation in cross language information access, and to help the community to identify promising future directions for both machine translation and cross language access. Findings: Machine translation can be applied effectively in many places in the whole cross language information access process. Queries translated by a machine translation system are high quality and are more robust in handling potential untranslated terms. Translation enhancement, a relevance feedback method using machine translation generated returned documents, is not only a valid technique by itself, but also helps to generate more robust cross language information access performance when combined with other relevance feedback techniques. Machine translation is also found to play a significant role in resolving untranslated terms and in data fusion. Originality/value: This set of comparative empirical studies on integrating machine translation and cross language information access was performed on a common evaluation framework, and examined integration at multiple points of the cross language access process. The experimental results demonstrate the value of further integrating machine translation in cross language information access, and identify interesting future directions for both machine translation and cross language information access research. {\copyright} Emerald Group Publishing Limited.} } @article{pittir12448, volume = {38}, number = {1}, month = {February}, author = {D Wu and D He and J Jiang and W Dong and KT Vo}, title = {The state of iSchools: An analysis of academic research and graduate education}, journal = {Journal of Information Science}, pages = {15 -- 36}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12448/}, abstract = {The emergence of the iSchool movement and the establishment of iSchools have helped to reshape the landscape of the library and information science (LIS) discipline. In this article, based on a set of research questions focusing around the research and education efforts of about 25 iSchools, we performed a study using both quantitative and qualitative methods on publically available data obtained from the web. Our results show that iSchools share the same vision and mission of working on relationships between information, people and technology, and have established themselves as the appropriate institutions for researchers from diverse subject areas to study this interdisciplinary integration. Overall, we are seeing an emerging iSchool identity and a defining iField, but there are still many important developments to make. {\copyright} 2011 Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals.} } @article{pittir12450, volume = {30}, number = {2}, month = {April}, author = {D Wu and D He and B Luo}, title = {Multilingual needs and expectations in digital libraries a survey of academic users with different languages}, journal = {Electronic Library}, pages = {182 -- 196}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12450/}, abstract = {Purpose - This study aims to survey academic users in order to identify their needs and expectations about multilingual information processing when they interact with digital libraries. The study specifically aims to determine the disparities in needs and expectations when users speak different languages. Design/methodology/approach - A survey was designed to fill in the gaps in the knowledge about academic users' multilingual needs and expectations for digital libraries. The survey questionnaire incorporates questions about different aspects of the participants' multilingual needs and expectations covering multilingual needs, the multilingual behavior, often-used multilingual information resources, and desired functions for the multilingual services, retrieval and interfaces in digital libraries. The results are obtained through statistical analyses and clustering methods. Findings - Overall, participants exhibited many multilingual needs during their academic activities. They often require multilingual information when they access academic databases or web information. Frequently, participants use online translation resources and tools, but they are not satisfied with the translation quality. Participants want many multilingual capabilities in digital libraries; they also want more sophisticated multilingual search interfaces. However, participants from different countries or who speak different languages show significant differences in their multilingual needs and expectations of digital libraries. This study's three user groups demonstrated clear differences in all aspects of multilinguality examined, as did the three latent groups identified through the clustering methods. Originality/value - Few studies have examined the multilingual information process in digital libraries from the point of view of academic users. This study draws its inputs directly from real academic users from different countries and provides insights into multilinguality in digital libraries. {\copyright} Emerald Group Publishing Limited.} } @article{pittir12452, number = {3}, title = {The Extraction and Translation of Named Entity in Cross Language Information Retrieval}, author = {Dan Wu and Daqing He and Wei Lu}, year = {2012}, pages = {13 -- 19}, note = {article is in Chinese}, journal = {Document, Information \& Knowledge}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12452/}, abstract = {In this article, we survey the current research on the named entity (NE) recognition and translation, propose an information extraction-based module for NE recognition and translation, put some integrated enhancement methods on NE translation, and integrate the module into a cross-language information retrieval (CLIR) system. Then we conduct experiments to examine the effectiveness of the integrated module in CLIR. The experiment results show that recognizing and translating named entities plays important role in CLIR, and our methods of weighting translations and mining translations on the Web for out of vocabulary named entities can significantly improve CLIR performance.} } @article{pittir12451, volume = {31}, number = {4}, author = {Dan Wu and Daqing He and Huilin Wang}, note = {Article is in Chinese}, title = {A Relevance Feedback based Query Translation Enhancement Technique in Cross Language Information Retrieval}, journal = {Journal of the China Society for Scientific and Technical Information}, pages = {398 -- 406}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12451/}, abstract = {This paper proposes a new cross language relevance feedback technique called query translation enhancement (TE), and studies four algorithms for ?estimating query terms? translation probabilities based on obtained relevant document pair set?, which is an important step in query translation enhancement. We conduct a series of pseudo relevance feedback experiments to compare the four algorithms and validate the effectiveness of query translation enhancement. Experiment results show that all four algorithms can raise the effectiveness of retrieval results, but the algorithm based on word alignment technique has clear superiority. In addition, we find that query length and retrieval topics can greatly affect various query translation enhancement approaches.} } @article{pittir29864, volume = {10}, number = {S1}, month = {July}, author = {Eveline Wu and Egla C Rabinovich and Kathryn S Torok and Suzanne C Li and Robert C Fuhlbrigge and CARRAnet Investigators}, title = {Description of the localized scleroderma subgroup of CARRAnet}, publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC}, journal = {Pediatric Rheumatology}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29864/} } @article{pittir16050, volume = {7}, number = {9}, month = {September}, title = {Aflatoxin Regulations in a Network of Global Maize Trade}, author = {F Wu and H Guclu}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16050/}, abstract = {Worldwide, food supplies often contain unavoidable contaminants, many of which adversely affect health and hence are subject to regulations of maximum tolerable levels in food. These regulations differ from nation to nation, and may affect patterns of food trade. We soughtto determine whether there is an association between nations' food safety regulations and global food trade patterns, with implications for public health and policymaking. We developed a network model of maize trade around the world. From maize import/export data for 217 nations from 2000-2009, we calculated basic statistics on volumes of trade; then examined how regulations of aflatoxin, a common contaminant of maize, are similar or different between pairs of nations engaging in significant amounts of maize trade. Globally, market segregation appears to occur among clusters of nations. The United States is at the center of one cluster; European countries make up another cluster with hardly any maize trade with the US; and Argentina, Brazil, and China export maize all over the world. Pairs of nations trading large amounts of maize have very similar aflatoxin regulations: nations with strict standards tend to trade maize with each other, while nations with more relaxed standards tend to trade maize with each other. Rarely among the top pairs of maize-trading nations do total aflatoxin standards (standards based on the sum of the levels of aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, and G2) differ by more than 5 {\ensuremath{\mu}}g/kg. These results suggest that, globally, separate maize trading communities emerge; and nations tend to trade with other nations that have very similar food safety standards. {\copyright} 2012 Wu, Guclu.} } @article{pittir16703, volume = {7}, month = {December}, title = {Mechanism-based model characterizing bidirectional interaction between PEGylated liposomal CKD-602 (S-CKD602) and monocytes in cancer patients}, author = {H Wu and RK Ramanathan and BA Zamboni and S Strychor and S Ramalingam and RP Edwards and DM Friedland and RG Stoller and CP Belani and LJ Maruca and YJ Bang and WC Zamboni}, year = {2012}, pages = {5555 -- 5564}, journal = {International Journal of Nanomedicine}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16703/}, abstract = {S-CKD602 is a PEGylated liposomal formulation of CKD-602, a potent topoisomerase I inhibitor. The objective of this study was to characterize the bidirectional pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic (PK-PD) interaction between S-CKD602 and monocytes. Plasma concentrations of encapsulated CKD-602 and monocytes counts from 45 patients with solid tumors were collected following intravenous administration of S-CKD602 in the phase I study. The PK-PD models were developed and fit simultaneously to the PK-PD data, using NONMEM?. The monocytopenia after administration of S-CKD602 was described by direct toxicity to monocytes in a mechanism-based model, and by direct toxicity to progenitor cells in bone marrow in a myelosuppression-based model. The nonlinear PK disposition of S-CKD602 was described by linear degradation and irreversible binding to monocytes in the mechanism-based model, and Michaelis-Menten kinetics in the myelosuppression-based model. The mechanism-based PK-PD model characterized the nonlinear PK disposition, and the bidirectional PK-PD interaction between S-CKD602 and monocytes. {\copyright} 2012 C{\'a}rdenas et al, publisher and licensee Dove Medical Press Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir11612, month = {June}, title = {Optical and Electrical Properties of Epitaxial Silver Films Grown on Silicon}, author = {Jinxuan Wu}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Scattering, Transfer length method, Transmission line model, Ohmic contact, Contact resistivity}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11612/}, abstract = {Light absorption and photocarrier transport are commonly important processes of photovoltaic energy conversion. In this thesis we have explored nanostructured metal contacts on semiconductor surfaces that may provide a synergistic improvement of these fundamental processes therefore the overall cell efficiency. This research is based on the previous work at Prof. Kim?s lab: a simple thin-film deposition process was developed that can grow nanostructured metal films on native-oxide covered silicon surface [Phys Rev B 75, 205306 (2007); J Appl Phys 103, 103507 (2008)]. This thin-film process involves the Stranski-Krastanov growth mode, that is, growth of a thin wetting layer followed by formation of 3D nano-islands, both in good epitaxial relationship with Si substrate. The process temperature is significantly lower than that of conventional silver thick-film process. In this study we have investigated the potential to use the nanostructured epitaxial metal contacts on Si as a means to achieve low contact resistivity and also to enhance light trapping/coupling. We characterized the optical reflectance at various incident angles. The film and contact resistivities of Ag on Si were also characterized for various different film thicknesses.} } @unpublished{pittir10502, month = {February}, title = {Neutrinos in Cosmology and Particle Physics}, author = {Jun Wu}, year = {2012}, keywords = {sterile neutrinos, Warm Dark Matter, neutrino oscillations, entanglement}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10502/}, abstract = {This thesis discusses two independent research topics. We first study keV sterile neutrinos as a Warm Dark Matter (WDM) candidate, focusing on their production at temperatures of the electroweak scale and the linear structure growth of WDM particles with arbitrary distribution functions and masses of keV scale. At temperatures of the electroweak scale, the medium effect modifies the mixing angle between sterile and active neutrinos, introducing two narrow Mikheev-Smirnov-Wolfenstein (MSW) resonances that break adiabaticity and enhance the non-thermal production of sterile neutrinos at small momenta. One of the two MSW resonances is in the absence of a lepton asymmetry and occurs only at temperatures around the electroweak scale. By solving the linearized collision-less Boltzmann equation, we obtain a semi-analytical expression of the matter power spectrum for WDM particles with arbitrary distributions agreeing within a few percent error with results from Boltzmann codes. This matter power spectrum depends on the horizon size at matter-radiation equality and the free streaming wave vector kfs, function of mass and distribution of WDM particles. We discover WDM acoustic oscillations at small scales about k{\ensuremath{>}}=2k\_fs and an Integrated Sachs-Wolfe (ISW) effect in the Radiation Dominant (RD) era which enhances the matter power spectrum for k{\ensuremath{<}}=k\_fs. A quasi-degeneracy between the mass and distribution function of WDM on the matter power spectrum is identified, suggesting an inherent ambiguity of Lyman-alpha analysis to constrain WDM parameters. Secondly, based on the observation that neutrinos produced from decay via the charge current interaction are entangled with the corresponding charged leptons, we re-investigate the theory of neutrino oscillations with the focus of the dynamics of the entangled state. We study the dynamics of entanglement and dis-entanglement explicitly in time, which leads to non-conventional expressions for neutrino oscillation amplitudes and probabilities suggesting possible corrections for short baseline neutrino oscillation experiments. By applying this method to the GSI anomaly, we unambiguously show that the GSI anomaly is not a consequence of neutrino oscillations.} } @article{pittir29972, volume = {11}, month = {January}, title = {Altered CXCR3 isoform expression regulates prostate cancer cell migration and invasion}, author = {Q Wu and R Dhir and A Wells}, year = {2012}, journal = {Molecular Cancer}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29972/}, abstract = {Background: Carcinoma cells must circumvent the normally suppressive signals to disseminate. While often considered 'stop' signals for adherent cells, CXCR3-binding chemokines have recently been correlated positively with cancer progression though the molecular basis remains unclear.Results: Here, we examined the expression and function of two CXCR3 variants in human prostate cancer biopsies and cell lines. Globally, both CXCR3 mRNA and protein were elevated in localized and metastatic human cancer biopsies compared to normal. Additionally, CXCR3A mRNA level was upregulated while CXCR3B mRNA was downregulated in these prostate cancer specimens. In contrast to normal prostate epithelial cells (RWPE-1), CXCR3A was up to half the receptor in the invasive and metastatic DU-145 and PC-3 prostate cancer cells, but not in the localized LNCaP cells. Instead of inhibiting cell migration as in RWPE-1 cells, the CXCR3 ligands CXCL4/PF4 and CXCL10/IP10 promoted cell motility and invasiveness in both DU-145 and PC-3 cells via PLC{\ensuremath{\beta}}3 and {\ensuremath{\mu}}-calpain activation. CXCR3-mediated diminution of cell motility in RWPE-1 cells is likely a result of cAMP upregulation and m-calpain inhibition via CXCR3B signal transduction. Interestingly, overexpression of CXCR3B in DU-145 cells decreased cell movement and invasion.Conclusion: These data suggest that the aberrant expression of CXCR3A and down-regulation of CXCR3B may switch a progression "stop" to a "go" signal to promote prostate tumor metastasis via stimulating cell migration and invasion. {\copyright} 2012 Wu et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir29775, volume = {1}, number = {1}, month = {September}, author = {Dong Xiang and Bicheng Zhang and Donald Doll and Kui Shen and Goetz Kloecker and Carl Freter}, title = {Lung cancer screening: from imaging to biomarker.}, journal = {Biomark Res}, pages = {4 -- ?}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29775/}, abstract = {Despite several decades of intensive effort to improve the imaging techniques for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, primary lung cancer is still the number one cause of cancer death in the United States and worldwide. The major causes of this high mortality rate are distant metastasis evident at diagnosis and ineffective treatment for locally advanced disease. Indeed, approximately forty percent of newly diagnosed lung cancer patients have distant metastasis. Currently, the only potential curative therapy is surgical resection of early stage lung cancer. Therefore, early detection of lung cancer could potentially increase the chance of cure by surgery and underlines the importance of screening and detection of lung cancer. In the past fifty years, screening of lung cancer by chest X-Ray (CXR), sputum cytology, computed tomography (CT), fluorescence endoscopy and low-dose spiral CT (LDCT) has not improved survival except for the recent report in 2010 by the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST), which showed a 20 percent mortality reduction in high risk participants screened with LDCT compared to those screened with CXRs. Furthermore, serum biomarkers for detection of lung cancer using free circulating DNA and RNA, exosomal microRNA, circulating tumor cells and various lung cancer specific antigens have been studied extensively and novel screening methods are being developed with encouraging results. The history of lung cancer screening trials using CXR, sputum cytology and LDCT, as well as results of trials involving various serum biomarkers, are reviewed herein.} } @article{pittir14159, volume = {7}, number = {3}, month = {March}, title = {Benzyl isothiocyanate causes FoxO1-mediated autophagic death in human breast cancer cells}, author = {D Xiao and A Bommareddy and SH Kim and A Sehrawat and ER Hahm and SV Singh}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14159/}, abstract = {Benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC), a constituent of edible cruciferous vegetables, inhibits growth of breast cancer cells but the mechanisms underlying growth inhibitory effect of BITC are not fully understood. Here, we demonstrate that BITC treatment causes FoxO1-mediated autophagic death in cultured human breast cancer cells. The BITC-treated breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231, MCF-7, MDA-MB-468, BT-474, and BRI-JM04) and MDA-MB-231 xenografts from BITC-treated mice exhibited several features characteristic of autophagy, including appearance of double-membrane vacuoles (transmission electron microscopy) and acidic vesicular organelles (acridine orange staining), cleavage of microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3), and/or suppression of p62 (p62/SQSTM1 or sequestosome 1) expression. On the other hand, a normal human mammary epithelial cell line (MCF-10A) was resistant to BITC-induced autophagy. BITC-mediated inhibition of MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cell viability was partially but statistically significantly attenuated in the presence of autophagy inhibitors 3-methyl adenine and bafilomycin A1. Stable overexpression of Mn-superoxide dismutase, which was fully protective against apoptosis, conferred only partial protection against BITC-induced autophagy. BITC treatment decreased phosphorylation of mTOR and its downstream targets (P70s6k and 4E-BP1) in cultured MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells and MDA-MB-231 xenografts, but activation of mTOR by transient overexpression of its positive regulator Rheb failed to confer protection against BITC-induced autophagy. Autophagy induction by BITC was associated with increased expression and acetylation of FoxO1. Furthermore, autophagy induction and cell growth inhibition resulting from BITC exposure were significantly attenuated by small interfering RNA knockdown of FoxO1. In conclusion, the present study provides novel insights into the molecular circuitry of BITC-induced cell death involving FoxO1-mediated autophagy. {\copyright} 2012 Xiao et al.} } @article{pittir29827, volume = {9}, month = {September}, title = {NF-kappaB activation: Tax sumoylation is out, but what about Tax ubiquitination?}, author = {G Xiao}, year = {2012}, journal = {Retrovirology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29827/}, abstract = {Activation of the NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B transcription factors by the viral protein Tax plays a vital role in the pathogenesis of diseases associated with human T-cell lymphotropic virus type I (HTLV-I). The Tax oncoprotein undergoes constitutive K63-linked ubiquitination and sumoylation; however, the roles and molecular mechanisms of these post-translational modifications in Tax-mediated NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B activation are being debated. Here, we discuss our current understanding of Tax activation of NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B, with a focus on the controversies and the challenges that we are facing. {\copyright} 2012 Xiao; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir17280, volume = {116}, number = {24}, month = {June}, author = {K Xiong and SA Asher}, title = {Impact of ion binding on poly-l-lysine (un)folding energy landscape and kinetics}, journal = {Journal of Physical Chemistry B}, pages = {7102 -- 7112}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17280/}, abstract = {We utilize T-jump UV resonance Raman spectroscopy (UVRR) to study the impact of ion binding on the equilibrium energy landscape and on (un)folding kinetics of poly-l-lysine (PLL). We observe that the relaxation rates of the folded conformations (including {\ensuremath{\pi}}-helix (bulge), pure {\ensuremath{\alpha}}-helix, and turns) of PLL are slower than those of short alanine-based peptides. The PLL pure {\ensuremath{\alpha}}-helix folding time is similar to that of short alanine-based peptides. We for the first time have directly observed that turn conformations are {\ensuremath{\alpha}}-helix and {\ensuremath{\pi}}-helix (bulge) unfolding intermediates. ClO 4- binding to the Lys side chain -NH3+ groups and the peptide backbone slows the {\ensuremath{\alpha}}-helix unfolding rate compared to that in pure water, but little impacts the folding rate, resulting in an increased {\ensuremath{\alpha}}-helix stability. ClO4- binding significantly increases the PLL unfolding activation barrier but little impacts the folding barrier. Thus, the PLL folding coordinate(s) differs from the unfolding coordinate(s). The-{\ensuremath{\pi}} helix (bulge) unfolding and folding coordinates do not directly go through the {\ensuremath{\alpha}}-helix energy well. Our results clearly demonstrate that PLL (un)folding is not a two-state process. {\copyright} 2012 American Chemical Society.} } @article{pittir17290, volume = {162}, month = {March}, title = {Conformation of poly-L-glutamate is independent of ionic strength}, author = {K Xiong and L Ma and SA Asher}, year = {2012}, pages = {1 -- 5}, journal = {Biophysical Chemistry}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17290/}, abstract = {CD and UV resonance Raman measurements surprisingly find that the charge screening of even 2 M concentrations of NaCl and KCl does not alter the unfolded PPII and 2.5 1-helix conformations of poly-l-glutamate. These salts appear to be excluded from the region between the side chain charges and the peptide backbone. Furthermore, no direct ion pairing occurs between these salts and the side chain carboxylates. {\copyright} 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.} } @article{pittir17319, volume = {51}, number = {29}, month = {July}, author = {K Xiong and D Punihaole and SA Asher}, title = {UV resonance raman spectroscopy monitors polyglutamine backbone and side chain hydrogen bonding and fibrillization}, journal = {Biochemistry}, pages = {5822 -- 5830}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17319/}, abstract = {We utilize 198 and 204 nm excited UV resonance Raman spectroscopy (UVRR) and circular dichroism spectroscopy (CD) to monitor the backbone conformation and the Gln side chain hydrogen bonding (HB) of a short, mainly polyGln peptide with a D2Q10K2 sequence (Q10). We measured the UVRR spectra of valeramide to determine the dependence of the primary amide vibrations on amide HB. We observe that a nondisaggregated Q10 (NDQ10) solution (prepared by directly dissolving the original synthesized peptide in pure water) exists in a {\ensuremath{\beta}}-sheet conformation, where the Gln side chains form hydrogen bonds to either the backbone or other Gln side chains. At 60 ?C, these solutions readily form amyloid fibrils. We used the polyGln disaggregation protocol of Wetzel et al. [Wetzel, R., et al. (2006) Methods Enzymol.413, 34-74] to dissolve the Q10 {\ensuremath{\beta}}-sheet aggregates. We observe that the disaggregated Q10 (DQ10) solutions adopt PPII-like and 2.51-helix conformations where the Gln side chains form hydrogen bonds with water. In contrast, these samples do not form fibrils. The NDQ10 {\ensuremath{\beta}}-sheet solution structure is essentially identical to that found in the NDQ10 solid formed upon evaporation of the solution. The DQ10 PPII and 2.51-helix solution structure is essentially identical to that in the DQ10 solid. Although the NDQ10 solution readily forms fibrils when heated, the DQ10 solution does not form fibrils unless seeded with the NDQ10 solution. This result demonstrates very high activation barriers between these solution conformations. The NDQ10 fibril secondary structure is essentially identical to that of the NDQ10 solution, except that the NDQ10 fibril backbone conformational distribution is narrower than in the dissolved species. The NDQ10 fibril Gln side chain geometry is more constrained than when NDQ10 is in solution. The NDQ10 fibril structure is identical to that of the DQ10 fibril seeded by the NDQ10 solution. {\copyright} 2012 American Chemical Society.} } @unpublished{pittir10969, month = {July}, title = {UV RESONANCE RAMAN STUDIES OF PEPTIDE FOLDING, PEPTIDE FIBRILLIZATION AND Cl- {$\rightarrow$} H2O CHARGE TRANSFER TRANSITION}, author = {Kan Xiong}, year = {2012}, keywords = {UV resonance Raman spectroscopy, peptide folding, peptide fibrillization, Cl- {$\rightarrow$} H2O charge transfer transition}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10969/}, abstract = {Protein folding problem is one of the most important unsolved problems in biology. Many diseases such as Alzheimer disease and Parkinson disease are caused by protein unfolding, protein misfolding and protein aggregation. Understanding molecular mechanism(s) of these diseases could facilitate drug design to treat diseases. UV resonance Raman spectroscopy (UVRR) is the most useful dilute solution method to quickly determine protein and peptide secondary structure. UVRR enables monitoring of the protein and peptide conformational distributions and Gibbs free energy landscapes along the Ramachandran {\ensuremath{\Psi}} coordinate. We utilized UVRR to examine the dependence of Gibbs free energy landscapes of an {\ensuremath{\alpha}}-helical peptide on solution environment such as salt species (Chapter 3) and alcohol species (Chapter 4). We also examined poly-L-glutamate (PGA) conformation dependence on salt concentrations, and surprisingly found that high concentrations of NaCl and KCl do not alter the unfolded PPII and 2.51-helix conformations of PGA (Chapter 5). In Chapter 6, we reported the first time experimental measurements of Ramachandran {\ensuremath{\Psi}}-angle distributions for intrinsically disordered peptides: the N-terminal peptide fragment (Residues 17-29) of tumor suppressor p53 and its P27S mutant form. We also measured UVRR spectra of Leu26 deuterated peptides to determine conformational distributions of Leu26 in the p53 peptides. In Chapter 7, we reported the first experimental measurements of the impact of ion binding on poly-L-lysine (PLL) (un)folding kinetics. We also examined PLL (un)folding coordinate(s) to obtain insight into PLL (un)folding mechanism(s). In Chapter 8, we developed a method and for the first time directly monitored the backbone and side chain hydrogen bonding of a polyGLN peptide whose solution structure can be controlled to either fibrillize or not fibrillize. In Chapter 9, we utilized UVRR to probe the lowest energy allowed electronic transitions of aqueous solutions containing Cl- salts. We showed that the waters hydrating the Cl- are involved in charge transfer transitions that transfer electron density from Cl- to the water molecules. These charge transfer transitions cause significant change in the H-O-H bond angle in the excited states, which results in a strong enhancement of the preresonance Raman intensity of the water bending modes. } } @article{pittir22888, volume = {4}, number = {2}, month = {January}, author = {W Xiong and D Litmaan and C Schunn}, title = {Natural language processing techniques for researching and improving peer feedback}, journal = {Journal of Writing Research}, pages = {155 -- 176}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22888/}, abstract = {Peer review has been viewed as a promising solution for improving studennts' writing, which still remains a great challenge for educators. However, one core problem with peer review of writing is that potentially useful feedbback from peers is not always presented in ways that lead to revision. Our prior investigations found that whether students implement feedback is significantly correlated with two feedback features: localization information and concrete solutions. But focusing on feedback features is time-intensive for researchers and instructors. We apply data mining and Natural Languagee Processing techniques to automatically code reviews for these feedback features. Our results show that it is feasible to provide intelligent suppport to peer review systems to automatically assess students' reviewing performance with respect to problem localization and solution. We also show that similar research conclusions about helpfulness perceptions of feedback across students and different expert types can be drawn from automatically coded data and from hand-coded data. {\copyright} Earli.} } @inproceedings{pittir22917, author = {Wenting Xiong and Diane J Litman and Jingtao Wang and Christian D Schunn}, booktitle = {The 7th Workshop on Innovative Use of NLP for Building Educational Applications}, address = {Stroudsburg, PA, USA}, title = {An Interactive Analytic Tool for Peer-review Exploration}, publisher = {Association for Computational Linguistics}, journal = {Proceedings of the Seventh Workshop on Building Educational Applications Using NLP}, pages = {174 -- 179}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22917/}, abstract = {This paper presents an interactive analytic tool for educational peer-review analysis. It employs data visualization at multiple levels of granularity, and provides automated analytic support using clustering and natural language processing. This tool helps instructors discover interesting patterns in writing performance that are reflected through peer reviews.} } @unpublished{pittir11676, month = {June}, title = {Integrated Generation Management for Maximizing Renewable Resource Utilization}, author = {Haifeng Xu}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Power grid, Integrated generation management, renewable resource, wind utilization, PHEV, spatial smoothing, vehicle-to-grid}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11676/}, abstract = {Two proposed methods to reduce the effective intermittency and improve the efficiency of wind power generation in the grid are spatial smoothing of wind generation and utilization of short term electrical storage to deal with lulls in production. In this thesis, based on a concept called integrated generation management (IGM), we explore the impact of spatial smoothing and the use of emerging plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) as a potential storage resource to the smart-grid. IGM combines nuclear, slow load-following coal, fast load-following natural gas, and renewable wind generation with an optimal control method to maximize the renewable generation and minimize the fossil generation. With the increasing penetration of PHEVs, the power grid is seeing new opportunities to make itself smarter than ever by utilizing those relatively large batteries. Based on current projections of PHEV market penetration and various wind generation scenarios, we demonstrate the potential for efficient wind integration at levels of approaching 30\% of the aver- age electrical load with utilization efficiency exceeding 65\%. At lower levels of integration (e.g. 15\%), efficiencies are possible exceeding 85\%.} } @unpublished{pittir12094, month = {July}, title = {Relationship Between Overweight Status at Onset and Insulin Reserve in Childen with Type 1 Diabetes}, author = {Jia Xu}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Type 1 Diabetes, Overweight, Children}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12094/}, abstract = {Background: The incidence rate of Type 1 Diabetes (T1DM) is increasing in line with the obesity epidemic in children. It remains unknown whether being overweight is associated with greater insulin reserve at the onset of the disease and how this impacts disease progression. Objective: To evaluate the relationship between overweight status at onset and insulin reserve in children and adolescents with T1DM. Methods: This study is a prospective follow-up study of new onset T1DM patients (aged 1.5 to 18.9 years) identified from the Children? Hospital of Pittsburgh (CHP) Registry. This study invited all children aged {\ensuremath{<}}19 years, newly diagnosed with T1DM from 2004 to 2006 at CHP to participate. The main outcome of interest was C-peptide levels at the onset of T1DM and at 3-month, 6-month, 12-month, 18-month, and 24-month follow up visits. We evaluated the independent associations between C-peptide levels and overweight status at baseline using generalized estimating equation (GEE) regression models. Results: Complete data were available in 179 subjects. The patients were on average 9.5 years old at enrollment, with 22\% (39) overweight, defined as body mass index ?85th percentile for the same gender and age. Mean C-peptide levels in the study population was 0.65ng/ml at baseline. C-peptide levels increased at the 3-month follow up visit and then gradually decreased at subsequent follow-up visits. GEE models suggested a statistically significant interaction between overweight status at baseline and follow-up visits after adjustment of potential confounders. C-peptide concentrations were significantly higher for overweight compared to non-overweight participants at 3-month, 6-month, 18-month follow up visits and borderline significant at the 12-month follow up visit. Conclusion: Overweight T1DM children had higher C-peptide levels as compared to non-overweight T1DM children at 3-month, 6-month, 12-month, and 18-month follow up visits; however, at 24-months after initiation of treatment, the C-peptide levels between overweight and non-overweight groups were not statistically significant different any longer. Public health significance: Overweight patients with T1DM may potentially benefit from target preventive strategies that will help them maintain or prolong the high C-peptide levels after initiation of treatment.} } @unpublished{pittir13628, month = {October}, title = {Quantum Monte Carlo Study of Weakly Interacting Many-Electron Systems}, author = {Jiawei Xu}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Quantum Monte Carlo}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13628/}, abstract = {Quantum Monte Carlo (QMC) methods are playing an increasingly important role for providing benchmark results for testing more approximate electronic structure and force field methods. Two particular variants of QMC, the variational Monte Carlo (VMC) and diffusion Monte Carlo (DMC) methods, have been applied to study the many-electron systems. All-electron calculations using QMC methods are performed to study the ground-state energy of the Be atom with single-determinant and multi-determinant trial functions, the binding energy of the water dimer, and the binding energy of the water-benzene complex. All of the DMC results achieve good agreement with high level ab initio methods and experiments. The QMC method with pseudopotentials is used to calculate the electron binding energies of two forms of (H2O)6. It is found that the DMC method, when using either Hartree-Fock or density functional theory trial functions, gives electron binding energies in excellent agreement with the results of large basis set CCSD(T) calculations. Pseudopotential QMC methods are also used to study the interactions of the water-benzene, water-anthracene, and water-coronene complexes. The dissociation energies of water-acene complexes of the DMC calculations agree with several other high level quantum calculations. Localized orbitals represented as spline functions are used to reduce the computational cost of the calculations for larger water-acene complexes. The prospects of using this approach to determine the interaction energy between water and graphite are discussed. In addition, we introduce correlation-consistent Gaussian-type orbital basis sets for use with the Casino Dirac-Fock pseudopotentials. These basis sets give low variances in VMC calculations and lead to significantly improved convergence compared to non-optimized basis sets in DMC calculations. We also examine the performance of two methods, the locality approximation (LA) and T-move, that have been designed for dealing with the problems associated with the use of non-local pseudopotentials in quantum Monte Carlo calculations. The two approaches give binding energies of water dimer that agree within the statistical errors. However, the convergence behavior of the DMC calculations is better behaved when using the T-move approach.} } @inproceedings{pittir12527, booktitle = {ACM Sigmetrics/Performance}, month = {June}, title = {A Framework of Efficient Hybrid Model and Optimal Control for Multihop Wireless Networks}, author = {K Xu and David Tipper and Prashant Krishnamurthy and Yi Qian}, address = {ACM Digital Library}, publisher = {ACM}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12527/}, abstract = {The performance of multihop wireless networks (MWN) is normally studied via simulation over a fixed time horizon using a steady-state type of statistical analysis procedure. However, due to the dynamic nature of network connectivi- ty and nonstationary traffic, such an approach may be inap- propriate as the network may spend most time in a transien- t/nonstationary state. Moreover, the majority of the simu- lators suffer from scalability issues. In this work, we presents a performance modeling framework for analyzing the time varying behavior of MWN. Our framework is a hybrid mod- el of time varying connectivity matrix and nonstationary network queues. Network connectivity is captured using s- tochastic modeling of adjacency matrix by considering both wireless link quality and node mobility. Nonstationary net- work queues behavior are modeled using fluid flow based differential equations. In terms of the computational time, the hybrid fluid-based model is a more scalable tool than the standard simulator. Furthermore, an optimal control strategy is proposed on the basis of the hybrid model.} } @unpublished{pittir10478, month = {February}, title = {Electrochemical detection optimized for capillary liquid chromatographic determination of neuroactive compounds}, author = {Xiaomi Xu}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Neurotransmitters, Capillary HPLC, Electrochemical detection, optimization}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10478/}, abstract = {Analyzing microdialysates sampled from the brain area of interest using HPLC is the most popular method among neuroscientists to measure extracellular neurotransmitters. An optimized capillary UHPLC-ECD system is capable of measuring basal concentration of serotonin in microdialysis samples and can be coupled with microdialysis to for on-line measurements. Due to the low abundance of some neurochemicals and the complex nature of biological matrices, the detection method has to be sensitive and selective and needs to be optimized. Miniaturization of the electrochemical flow cell detector is critical to improving the sensitivity especially in a capillary separation system. Fabricating the spacer in the flow cell using a novel photosensitive polymer coating offers the convenience of controllable thickness and easy assembling, which leads to improvement in detector performance. The advantage of the thin polymer coating as the spacer is demonstrated by comparing the performance with that of a traditional free standing spacer. A dual working electrode electrochemical detector increases detection selectivity based on the difference in the electrochemical reversibility of analytes. Carbon fiber/epoxy composite materials are commercially available in various shapes and sizes at very low cost. Using tube and rod composites, a ring-disk electrode with a 20 ?m gap between the ring and the disk is successfully fabricated through a unique two-step insulation-adhesion process. The narrow gap is favorable for mass transfer in the generator-collector experiment. When assembled in an electrochemical radial-flow cell detector, the dual electrode gives high collection efficiency (0.8 for a chemically reversible species), which enhances the detection selectivity. Carbon electrodes can also be replaced with naphthalenethiol modified gold electrodes. The modification monolayer suppresses the background current from Au while giving detectable current for biological analytes with sensitivity comparable to a glassy carbon electrode. } } @inproceedings{pittir18985, month = {December}, title = {A mechanism design model in robot-service-queue control with strategic operators and asymmetric information}, author = {Y Xu and T Dai and K Sycara and M Lewis}, year = {2012}, pages = {6113 -- 6119}, journal = {Proceedings of the IEEE Conference on Decision and Control}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18985/}, abstract = {Understanding various factors affecting human operator's performance is one key to effectively controlling a multi-robot service queue. In this paper we study the optimal incentive design and task allocation scheme in the presence of strategic human operators with unknown capability information. We build a mechanism design framework to model and analyze the problem. We show that a simple and easy-to-implement two-payment-level system can motivate operators to explore the appropriateness of their adopted workload and to devote their capacities optimal to the system. The subsequent analytical and numerical investigation provides insights into understanding the way it affects the control strategies in a multi-robot service queue to account for human operators' strategic behaviors. {\copyright} 2012 IEEE.} } @unpublished{pittir11569, month = {June}, title = {Identification of VOC Biomarkers of Breast Cancer Using Single Nanowire Array Sensor with Palladium, Polypyrrole and Zinc Oxide Nanowires}, author = {Yiwen Xu}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Breast Cancer, VOC biomarkers, Breath Analysis, Single nanowire, Single nanowire array sensor, PCA}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11569/}, abstract = {Breast Cancer, as the second most common cancer among women in the United States, has attracted specific attention for the research of diagnostic screening test, since the most common diagnostic methods for Breast Cancer, including diagnostic mammogram, magnetic resonance imaging and breast ultrasound, perform high false positive and negative rates and involve high risk of getting cancer during the diagnostic screening test. Breath analysis, as an accurate and non-invasive diagnosis method, is a promising replacement technique to perform better diagnostic result using the Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) biomarkers of Breast Cancer, and nanowire as a one dimensional nanostructure with high sensitivity, reproducibility and accuracy in chemical and biomolecular sensing can be developed as an excellent sensing device for the detection of the VOC biomarkers of Breast Cancer for real-time breath sensing analysis. In this work, Palladium, Polypyrrole and Zinc Oxide nanowires, fabricated using electrochemical deposition method, perform quick response and high sensitivity to the four VOC biomarkers of Breast Cancer, including heptanal (Hep), 1-phenyl-ethanone (Ace), isopropyl myristate (IM), and 2-propanol. The lowest sensing limits of the single nanowires for Hep, Ace, IM and 2-propanol have achieved 8.982ppm, 798ppb, 134ppm and 129.5ppm, which are extremely low concentration approaching the concentrate level of these VOC biomarkers in human breath. The sensitivities for the sensing limits are around 1\% which indicates the great IDENTIFICATION OF VOC BIOMARKERS OF BREAST CANCER USING SINGLE NANOWIRE ARRAY SENSOR WITH PALLADIUM, POLYPYRROLE AND ZINC OXIDE NANOWIRES Yiwen Xu, M.S. University of Pittsburgh, 2012 v sensitivity of these single nanowires. The detection period applied for the single nanowire sensing test to achieve the maximum conductance change is 200 seconds, and the recovery time consumed after each detection period is less than 200 seconds which illustrate the excellent reproducibility of the single nanowires and the capability for the real-time sensing test of breath analysis. The properties and sensing mechanisms of these single nanowires will also be discussed in detail. By fabricating Palladium, Polypyrrole and Zinc Oxide nanowires in parallel on a single chip, a single nanowire array sensor is also developed. With the sensing test using the multi-channel simultaneous sensing system, the single nanowire array sensor performs excellent discrimination between four VOC biomarkers by using the principal component analysis (PCA). The smell prints for the four VOC biomarkers are completely separated in 2-D and 3-D PCA plots, which prove the excellent specificity of this single nanowire array sensor and indicates a bright future of the application of this single nanowire array sensor for the actual breath diagnostic sensing test for Breast Cancer.} } @unpublished{pittir10573, month = {February}, title = {RAPID DNA-BASED POINT-OF-CARE DIAGNOSTICS}, author = {ASHISH S YERI}, year = {2012}, keywords = {DNA biosensors, mutation screening, viscoelastic modeling, voight, antibody immobilization, langmuir isotherm, sips isotherm, Loop mediated isothermal amplification, LAMP, lateral flow, E. coli, K. pneumoniae }, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10573/}, abstract = {DNA-based biosensors for detection of genetic mutations and infectious diseases have attracted a lot of attention recently owing to the large amount of genetic information available and the high specificity of these sensors due to the uniqueness of DNA sequences. In the first part of my work, the viscoelastic properties of single-strand DNA are made use of to rapidly screen for disease causing mutations. Single strand DNA (ssDNA) films have viscoelastic properties which are dependent on their 3-D conformation in solution which in turn is dependent on their base sequence. The mutation of the p53 gene which is responsible for almost half of all cancers was chosen as our case study. The appreciable differences in the viscoelastic properties between the p53 wild type ssDNA film and the p53 mutant R type ssDNA film were evaluated using a quartz crystal resonator showing that this method holds much promise to be used as a rapid DNA mutation screening technique. In the second part of my work, we have made use of novel isothermal DNA amplification techniques to specifically amplify the target DNA which is then detected on lateral flow strips in a low cost manner. Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae are responsible for a large number of infections including Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) and life threatening conditions such as neonatal meningitis and neonatal sepsis. A rapid and sensitive detection scheme has been developed for these bacteria by amplification of the DNA with Loop mediated isothermal amplification technique (LAMP) and its subsequent detection on lateral flow strips. Patient urine samples were screened for the presence of these two organisms and the LAMP-lateral flow detection scheme is comparable to the bacterial culture methods which is the current gold standard. Furthermore, multiplexing the amplification and detection has been demonstrated successfully which shows great potential to be employed as a reliable point-of-care diagnostic tool in the clinical setting. } } @unpublished{pittir13043, month = {September}, title = {Semiparametric Estimators in Competing Risks Regression}, author = {Jonathan Yabes}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Competing risks; cumulative incidence function; doubly-robust; inverse probability weighting; missing cause of failure; marginal survival function; proportional subdistribution hazards; random signs censoring.}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13043/}, abstract = {Clinical trials and cohort studies that collect survival data frequently involve patients who may fail from one of multiple causes (failure types). These causes are called competing risks. The cumulative incidence function (CIF), or subdistribution, is a commonly reported quantity that describes the crude failure type-specific probability of the study population. The proportional subdistribution hazards model has been widely applied to study the effects of covariates on the CIF. In practice however, the time of failure may be recorded but the cause may be unknown or missing. To avoid bias, we developed two semiparametric estimators of covariate effects: the inverse probability weighted (IPW) estimator and the augmented inverse probability weighted (AIPW) estimator. We showed that these estimators are consistent and asymptotically normal. Their finite sample size properties and robustness were demonstrated through simulations. In many situations, investigators are interested in the marginal survival distribution of latent failure times, rather than the CIF. Because of the identifiability problem in competing risks, we derived an estimator of covariate effects in the Cox proportional hazards model by incorporating the random signs censoring (RSC) principle, which assumes that the main event failure time is independent of the indicator that the main event precedes the competing event. Unlike identifying assumptions that are typically imposed in practice, RSC is verifiable via stochastic ordering in the observed data. We further relaxed the RSC assumption by positing that independence is achieved conditional on some covariates. We showed that the resulting estimator is not only easy to implement but also has desirable asymptotic properties. We evaluated the estimator's finite sample size performance through simulations. Medical datasets were used to illustrate the proposed methods. Public Health Significance: Biomedical and public health studies with time-to-event endpoint are abundant and often influence regulatory decisions. Trustworthiness of the research results not only relies on the design quality, but also on the soundness of the analytical approach used. The methodologies we propose account for two potential sources of bias in the conduct of such studies -- competing risks and missing data.} } @article{pittir24214, volume = {69}, number = {9}, month = {September}, author = {K Yaffe and C Falvey and N Hamilton and AV Schwartz and EM Simonsick and S Satterfield and JA Cauley and C Rosano and LJ Launer and ES Strotmeyer and TB Harris}, title = {Diabetes, glucose control, and 9-year cognitive decline among older adults without dementia}, journal = {Archives of Neurology}, pages = {1170 -- 1175}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/24214/}, abstract = {Objectives: To determine if prevalent and incident diabetes mellitus (DM) increase risk of cognitive decline and if, among elderly adults with DM, poor glucose control is related to worse cognitive performance. Design: Prospective cohort study. Setting: Health, Aging, and Body Composition Study at 2 community clinics. Participants: A total of 3069 elderly adults (mean age, 74.2 years; 42\% black; 52\% female). Main Outcome Measures: Participants completed the Modified Mini-Mental State Examination (3MS) and Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST) at baseline and selected intervals over 10 years. Diabetes mellitus status was determined at baseline and during follow-up visits. Glycosylated hemoglobin A1c level was measured at years 1 (baseline), 4, 6, and 10 from fasting whole blood. Results: At baseline, 717 participants (23.4\%) had prevalent DM and 2352 (76.6\%) were without DM, 159 of whom developed incidentDMduring follow-up. Participants with prevalent DM had lower baseline test scores than participants withoutDM(3MS: 88.8 vs 90.9; DSST: 32.5 vs 36.3, respectively; t = 6.09; P = .001 for both tests). Results from mixed-effects models showed a similar pattern for 9-year decline (3MS: -6.0- vs -4.5-point decline; t = 2.66; P = .008; DSST: -7.9- vs -5.7-point decline; t = 3.69; P = .001, respectively). Participants with incident DM tended to have baseline and 9-year decline scores between the other 2 groups but were not statistically different from the group without DM. Multivariate adjustment for demographics and medical comorbidities produced similar results. Among participants with prevalent DM, glycosylated hemoglobin A1c level was associated with lower average mean cognitive scores (3MS: F = 8.2; P for overall = .003; DSST: F = 3.4; P for overall = .04), even after multivariate adjustment. Conclusion: Among well-functioning older adults, DM and poor glucose control among those with DM are associated with worse cognitive function and greater decline. This suggests that severity of DM may contribute to accelerated cognitive aging. {\copyright}2012 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.} } @unpublished{pittir10639, month = {January}, title = {MAPPING HUMAN CAPITAL FOR SELF-EMPLOYMENT: EDUCATION FOR JOB CREATION{--}AN ALTERNATIVE APPROACH TO YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT}, author = {Yukiko Yamamoto}, year = {2012}, keywords = {employment, labor market, youth, self-employment, entrepreneurship, entrepreneurial education, education policy, job creation, human capital, social capital, social cartography}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10639/}, abstract = {A widely-suggested educational policy solution for youth unemployment is to increase employability; however, this approach tends to neglect an alternative path{--}that of education for job creation and self-employment. This study emphasizes the importance of this alternative strategy and calls for greater attention to it for two reasons: 1) increasing employability is no longer sufficient in today?s saturated labor market; and 2) the relationship between skills and successful entrepreneurship is still sketchy at best. This study investigates how education can play a role in creating one?s own job, and what the best way to foster self-employment competencies is. It is designed to help policy makers capture perspectives on education in relation to self-employment so that they can debate, design, and implement programs in the future. The study specifically focuses on how education, related to human and social capital, might play a role in the business creation process. The study employs social cartography both to select data for analysis and also to present the final findings of the study. Meta-study procedures were applied for the data analysis. The study found three types of human capital (basic, specific, and entrepreneurial) and two types of social capital (cognitive and structural). The findings from the data-analysis were synthesized and mapped on a time-line of business creation and the management process. This map shows that basic human capital is constantly necessary throughout the process; however, the importance of specific and entrepreneurial human capital shifts along with the progress of business creation. The most effective educational strategies also shift parallel with the type of human capital. The impact of social capital also shifts; cognitive social capital has more of an impact in earlier stages, while structural social capital affects the process more in later stages. The recommendations for policy implications and further research possibility were made based on what the map shows, and does not show. This theoretical study is an effort to elucidate the underlying structures of human and social capital in the job creation process in an attempt to strengthen entrepreneurial education policy and programs in the future. } } @article{pittir18900, volume = {59}, number = {2}, month = {February}, author = {H Yan and H Yang and J Zhao and C Wei and J Li and X Huan and M Zhang and F Raymond and W McFarland}, title = {Long-chain peer referral of men who have sex with men: A novel approach to establish and maintain a cohort to measure HIV incidence, Nanjing, China}, journal = {Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes}, pages = {177 -- 184}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18900/}, abstract = {Background: HIV prevalence is high among men who have sex with men (MSM) in China. Longitudinal studies are needed to measure HIV incidence, determine causes of acquisition, and test prevention interventions. We described 2 novel methods to enroll and maintain a cohort of MSM, focusing on their abilities to establish a diverse sample, improve retention, and their impact on HIV incidence. Methods: Employing methods based on respondent-driving sampling, we constructed 2 parallel cohorts measuring HIV incidence over 2 years through 6-month follow-up visits. An initial cohort was constructed using long-chain peer referral from the community; a second phase comprised open cohort peer referral recruitment from MSM completing follow-up. Results: Three-hundred ninety-seven HIV-negative MSM were enrolled in the initial cohort; 460 were recruited in the open cohort phase. Across recruitment waves, the composition of the cohort was stable. Among initial participants, retention was 72.0\%, 68.8\%, 49.9\%, and 44.8\%. Retention was lower in the open cohort. MSM retained in both phases were less risky than those lost to follow-up. HIV incidence was 3.36 per 100 person-years and did not differ by recruitment method. Conclusions: Our approach efficiently recruited MSM into longitudinal studies with modest improvement in sample diversity from initial recruits. We perceive multiple means to improve diversity and follow-up capitalizing on the network bonds between recruits and through secondary incentives for assistance with referral and retention. Meanwhile, HIV incidence is high among MSM in Nanjing, and interventions need to be developed and tested in longitudinal randomized controlled trials. Copyright {\copyright} 2012 Lippincott Williams \& Wilkins.} } @article{pittir12225, volume = {14}, number = {4}, month = {January}, author = {Y Yan and Y Qian and H Sharif and D Tipper}, title = {A survey on cyber security for smart grid communications}, journal = {IEEE Communications Surveys and Tutorials}, pages = {998 -- 1010}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12225/}, abstract = {A smart grid is a new form of electricity network with high fidelity power-flow control, self-healing, and energy reliability and energy security using digital communications and control technology. To upgrade an existing power grid into a smart grid, it requires significant dependence on intelligent and secure communication infrastructures. It requires security frameworks for distributed communications, pervasive computing and sensing technologies in smart grid. However, as many of the communication technologies currently recommended to use by a smart grid is vulnerable in cyber security, it could lead to unreliable system operations, causing unnecessary expenditure, even consequential disaster to both utilities and consumers. In this paper, we summarize the cyber security requirements and the possible vulnerabilities in smart grid communications and survey the current solutions on cyber security for smart grid communications. {\copyright} 2012 IEEE.} } @article{pittir14177, volume = {7}, number = {4}, month = {April}, title = {Exosomes released from mycoplasma infected tumor cells activate inhibitory B cells}, author = {C Yang and G Chalasani and YH Ng and PD Robbins}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14177/}, abstract = {Mycoplasmas cause numerous human diseases and are common opportunistic pathogens in cancer patients and immunocompromised individuals. Mycoplasma infection elicits various host immune responses. Here we demonstrate that mycoplasma-infected tumor cells release exosomes (myco+ exosomes) that specifically activate splenic B cells and induce splenocytes cytokine production. Induction of cytokines, including the proinflammatory IFN-{\ensuremath{\gamma}} and the anti-inflammatory IL-10, was largely dependent on the presence of B cells. B cells were the major IL-10 producers. In splenocytes from B cell deficient {\ensuremath{\mu}}MT mice, induction of IFN-{\ensuremath{\gamma}}+ T cells by myco+ exosomes was greatly increased compared with wild type splenocytes. In addition, anti-CD3-stimulated T cell proliferation was greatly inhibited in the presence of myco+ exosome-treated B cells. Also, anti-CD3-stimulated T cell signaling was impaired by myco+ exosome treatment. Proteomic analysis identified mycoplasma proteins in exosomes that potentially contribute to the effects. Our results demonstrate that mycoplasma-infected tumor cells release exosomes carrying mycoplasma components that preferentially activate B cells, which in turn, are able to inhibit T cell activity. These results suggest that mycoplasmas infecting tumor cells can exploit the exosome pathway to disseminate their own components and modulate the activity of immune cells, in particular, activate B cells with inhibitory activity. {\copyright} 2012 Yang et al.} } @article{pittir29913, volume = {31}, number = {1}, month = {June}, title = {In vitro the behaviors of metastasis with suppression of VEGF in human bone metastatic LNCaP-derivative C4-2B prostate cancer cell line}, author = {L Yang and S You and V Kumar and C Zhang and Y Cao}, year = {2012}, journal = {Journal of Experimental and Clinical Cancer Research}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29913/}, abstract = {Background: Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a signal protein produced by cells that stimulates vasculogenesis and angiogenesis. VEGF is believed to implicate poor prognosis in various cancers. The overexpression of VEGF may be an early step in the process of metastasis. Methods: ELISA was used to investigate the levels of VEGF, bFGF and IL8 in human bone metastatic LNCaP-derivative C4-2B prostate cancer cell line and its parental cell line, LNCaP and to determine the effect of bevacizumab on reducing the level of VEGF. Cell proliferation assay, invasion assay and in vitro angiogenesis assay were performed under the condition with bevacizumab or control IgG. Results: Human bone metastatic LNCaP-derivative C4-2B prostate cancer cell line expressed a higher level of VEGF than its parental primary prostate cancer cell line LNCaP. The effect of bevacizumab is dose-dependent and time-dependent: 100 {\`i}g/mL of bevacizumab and 3-day treatment was more effective than low-dose and lesser-day treatment for decreasing the level of VEGF. Bevacizumab is able to suppress cell proliferation, angiogenesis and invasion in human bone metastatic C4-2B prostatic cancer cell line. Conclusions: The overexpression of VEGF can be inhibited by bevacizumab in human bone metastatic cancer cell line. The behaviors of metastasis involving proliferation, angiogenesis and invasion are suppressed by anti-VEGF therapy. {\copyright} 2012 Yang et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir23370, volume = {368}, number = {1}, month = {February}, author = {M Yang and Z Di and JK Lee}, title = {Facile control of surface wettability in TiO {\ensuremath{<}}inf{\ensuremath{>}}2{\ensuremath{<}}/inf{\ensuremath{>}}/poly(methyl methacrylate) composite films}, journal = {Journal of Colloid and Interface Science}, pages = {603 -- 607}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/23370/}, abstract = {A facile method to produce very hydrophobic surface was developed simply using the mixture of TiO 2 nanoparticles and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA). When the volume ratio of TiO 2 to PMMA is between 35vol.\% and 50vol.\%, the mixture of two hydrophilic materials became very hydrophobic. Analysis of the molecular structure by infrared spectroscopy shows that the preferential orientation and attachment of a carbonyl group of a polymer molecule to the surface of TiO 2 nanoparticles play a critical role in the appearance of the strong hydrophobicity. When this composite was exposed to UV light, PMMA on the surface of the mixture film was decomposed through a photocatalytic reaction and the very hydrophobic surface turned to the superhydrophilic one. The superhydrophilic property of UV-irradiated composite lasts as long as several months. This long lasting superhydrophilicity is ascribed to the porous structure, which provides high roughness and strong capillary interaction. Easy transition from strong hydrophobicity to superhydrophilicity in TiO 2/PMMA composites could be applied to designing high contrast hydrophilic/hydrophobic patterns. {\copyright} 2011 Elsevier Inc.} } @unpublished{pittir11571, month = {June}, title = {Band Gap Engineering and Carrier Transport in TiO2 for Solar Energy Harvesting}, author = {Mengjin Yang}, year = {2012}, keywords = {solar harvesting, solar cell, photocatalysis, doping, band gap, nanorod, nanowire, carrier transport, Schottky barrier}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11571/}, abstract = {TiO2 has been used in photocatalysis and photovoltaics because of its comprehensive combination of energy band structure, carrier transport, and inertness. However, wide band gap and relative slow carrier transport limits its full potential in these applications. 3.2 eV band gap of anatase indicates its low efficiency of utilizing full spectrum of solar light, and, band gap engineering was employed to address this issue. Specifically, nitrogen doping, iron doping, and N/Fe codoping were investigated for their photocatalytic effect. Doping was carried out in hydrothermal reactor by adding aliovalent ions to TiO2 precursor. Both N and Fe doping show the narrowing of band gap compared with the pristine TiO2. N-doping enhances its visible light photocatalytic performance, while Fe-doping and codoping result in poor photocatalysis. Further low temperature fluorescence spectra indicate the high recombination in Fe-doped and co-doped samples. The next issue is the relatively slow carrier transport in TiO2 nanoparticle-based dye sensitized solar cell (DSSC). Single crystalline rutile nanorod was studied in order to overcome this drawback. Synthesis was achieved with the assistance of microwave heating, and reaction rate was boosted due to this unique heating method. The carrier diffusion coefficient and life time of TiCl4 treated nanorod were systematically measured, and surface diffusion model is proposed to interpret observed phenomena. Combining band gap engineering (doping) and carrier transport (nanorod) research, doped nanorod was investigated. It is found that Nb doped nanorod shows higher conductivity, better back contact between FTO and nanorod, easy injection of electron from dye sensitizers to nanorods, and, consequently, less recombination. The efficiency of solar cell from Nb doped nanorod increases by almost 80\% comparing with pure nanorod. What?s more, the conductive-AFM with nanoscale resolution provides unprecedented image of current path in nanorod, which could verify carrier transport model and shed light on engineering of nanostructure for superior performance.} } @article{pittir20842, volume = {19}, number = {12}, month = {December}, author = {Q Yang and Y Tang and K Imbrogno and A Lu and JD Proto and A Chen and F Guo and FH Fu and J Huard and B Wang}, title = {AAV-based shRNA silencing of NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B ameliorates muscle pathologies in mdx mice}, journal = {Gene Therapy}, pages = {1196 -- 1204}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20842/}, abstract = {Chronic inflammation, promoted by an upregulated NF-kappa B (NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B) pathway, has a key role in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) patients pathogenesis. Blocking the NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B pathway has been shown to be a viable approach to diminish chronic inflammation and necrosis in the dystrophin-defective mdx mouse, a murine DMD model. In this study, we used the recombinant adeno-associated virus serotype 9 (AAV9) carrying an short hairpin RNA (shRNA) specifically targeting the messenger RNA of NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B/p65 (p65-shRNA), the major subunit of NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B associated with chronic inflammation in mdx mice. We examined whether i.m. AAV9-mediated delivery of p65-shRNA could decrease NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B activation, allowing for amelioration of muscle pathologies in 1-and 4-month-old mdx mice. At 1 month after treatment, NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B/p65 levels were significantly decreased by AAV gene transfer of p65-shRNA in the two ages of treatment groups, with necrosis significantly decreased compared with controls. Quantitative analysis revealed that central nucleation (CN) of the myofibers of p65-shRNA-treated 1-month-old mdx muscles was reduced from 67 to 34\%, but the level of CN was not significantly decreased in treated 4-month-old mdx mice. Moreover, delivery of the p65-shRNA enhanced the capacity of myofiber regeneration in old mdx mice treated at 4 months of age when the dystrophic myofibers were most exhausted; however, such p65 silencing diminished the myofiber regeneration in young mdx mice treated at 1 month of age. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that the AAV-mediated delivery of p65-shRNA has the capacity to ameliorate muscle pathologies in mdx mice by selectively reducing NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B/p65 activity. {\copyright} 2012 Macmillan Publishers Limited.} } @article{pittir29924, volume = {9}, month = {April}, title = {Second-site suppressors of HIV-1 capsid mutations: Restoration of intracellular activities without correction of intrinsic capsid stability defects}, author = {R Yang and J Shi and IJL Byeon and J Ahn and JH Sheehan and J Meiler and AM Gronenborn and C Aiken}, year = {2012}, journal = {Retrovirology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29924/}, abstract = {Background: Disassembly of the viral capsid following penetration into the cytoplasm, or uncoating, is a poorly understood stage of retrovirus infection. Based on previous studies of HIV-1 CA mutants exhibiting altered capsid stability, we concluded that formation of a capsid of optimal intrinsic stability is crucial for HIV-1 infection.Results: To further examine the connection between HIV-1 capsid stability and infectivity, we isolated second-site suppressors of HIV-1 mutants exhibiting unstable (P38A) or hyperstable (E45A) capsids. We identified the respective suppressor mutations, T216I and R132T, which restored virus replication in a human T cell line and markedly enhanced the fitness of the original mutants as revealed in single-cycle infection assays. Analysis of the corresponding purified N-terminal domain CA proteins by NMR spectroscopy demonstrated that the E45A and R132T mutations induced structural changes that are localized to the regions of the mutations, while the P38A mutation resulted in changes extending to neighboring regions in space. Unexpectedly, neither suppressor mutation corrected the intrinsic viral capsid stability defect associated with the respective original mutation. Nonetheless, the R132T mutation rescued the selective infectivity impairment exhibited by the E45A mutant in aphidicolin-arrested cells, and the double mutant regained sensitivity to the small molecule inhibitor PF74. The T216I mutation rescued the impaired ability of the P38A mutant virus to abrogate restriction by TRIMCyp and TRIM5{\ensuremath{\alpha}}.Conclusions: The second-site suppressor mutations in CA that we have identified rescue virus infection without correcting the intrinsic capsid stability defects associated with the P38A and E45A mutations. The suppressors also restored wild type virus function in several cell-based assays. We propose that while proper HIV-1 uncoating in target cells is dependent on the intrinsic stability of the viral capsid, the effects of stability-altering mutations can be mitigated by additional mutations that affect interactions with host factors in target cells or the consequences of these interactions. The ability of mutations at other CA surfaces to compensate for effects at the NTD-NTD interface further indicates that uncoating in target cells is controlled by multiple intersubunit interfaces in the viral capsid. {\copyright} 2012 Yang et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir29908, volume = {12}, month = {May}, title = {High mobility group B1 impairs hepatocyte regeneration in acetaminophen hepatotoxicity}, author = {R Yang and S Zhang and A Cotoia and N Oksala and S Zhu and J Tenhunen}, year = {2012}, journal = {BMC Gastroenterology}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29908/}, abstract = {Background: Acetaminophen (APAP) overdose induces massive hepatocyte necrosis. Necrotic tissue releases high mobility group B1 (HMGB1), and HMGB1 contributes to liver injury. Even though blockade of HMGB1 does not protect against APAP-induced acute liver injury (ALI) at 9 h time point, the later time points are not studied and the role of HMGB1 in APAP overdose is unknown, it is possible that neutralization of HMGB1 might improve hepatocyte regeneration. This study aims to test whether blockade of HMGB1 improves hepatocyte regeneration after APAP overdose.Methods: Male C57BL/6 mice were treated with a single dose of APAP (350 mg/kg). 2 hrs after APAP administration, the APAP challenged mice were randomized to receive treatment with either anti-HMGB1 antibody (400 {\ensuremath{\mu}}g per dose) or non-immune (sham) IgG every 24 hours for a total of 2 doses.Results: 24 hrs after APAP injection, anti-HMGB1 therapy instead of sham IgG therapy significantly improved hepatocyte regeneration microscopically; 48 hrs after APAP challenge, the sham IgG treated mice showed 14.6\% hepatic necrosis; in contrast, blockade of HMGB1 significantly decreased serum transaminases (ALT and AST), markedly reduced the number of hepatic inflammatory cells infiltration and restored liver structure to nearly normal; this beneficial effect was associated with enhanced hepatic NF-{\ensuremath{\kappa}}B DNA binding and increased the expression of cyclin D1, two important factors related to hepatocyte regeneration.Conclusion: HMGB1 impairs hepatocyte regeneration after APAP overdose; Blockade of HMGB1 enhances liver recovery and may present a novel therapy to treat APAP overdose. {\copyright} 2012 Yang et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir29971, volume = {16}, number = {1}, month = {January}, title = {Ethyl pyruvate reduces liver injury at early phase but impairs regeneration at late phase in acetaminophen overdose}, author = {R Yang and X Zou and ML Koskinen and J Tenhunen}, year = {2012}, journal = {Critical Care}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29971/}, abstract = {Introduction: Inflammation may critically affect mechanisms of liver injury in acetaminophen (APAP) hepatotoxicity. Kupffer cells (KC) play important roles in inflammation, and KC depletion confers protection at early time points after APAP treatment but can lead to more severe injury at a later time point. It is possible that some inflammatory factors might contribute to liver damage at an early injurious phase but facilitate liver regeneration at a late time point. Therefore, we tested this hypothesis by using ethyl pyruvate (EP), an anti-inflammatory agent, to treat APAP overdose for 24-48 hours.Methods: C57BL/6 male mice were intraperitoneally injected with a single dose of APAP (350 mg/kg dissolved in 1 mL sterile saline). Following 2 hours of APAP challenge, the mice were given 0.5 mL EP (40 mg/kg) or saline treatment every 8 hours for a total of 24 or 48 hours.Results: Twenty-four hours after APAP challenge, compared to the saline-treated group, EP treatment significantly lowered serum transaminases (ALT/AST) and reduced liver injury seen in histopathology; however, at the 48-hour time point, compared to the saline therapy, EP therapy impaired hepatocyte regeneration and increased serum AST; this late detrimental effect was associated with reduced serum TNF-{\ensuremath{\alpha}} concentration and decreased expression of cell cycle protein cyclin D1, two important factors in liver regeneration.Conclusions: Inflammation likely contributes to liver damage at an early injurious phase but improves hepatocyte regeneration at a late time point, and prolonged anti-inflammation therapy at a late phase is not beneficial. {\copyright} 2012 Yang et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir11951, month = {June}, title = {The Effects of Overstration on the Stratified Log Rank Test for Survival Analysis}, author = {Shuting/ SY Yang}, year = {2012}, keywords = {survival analysis; modified log-rank test; stratified log-rank test; R}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11951/}, abstract = {Survival analysis concerns the characterization or comparison of one or more distributions of the time to a well defined event. The log-rank test is the most common method used to compare the survival distributions of two samples. When data within the two groups are stratified according to some risk factors, then a stratified log-rank test is employed. Stratified analysis is a procedure used to compare outcomes in different groups while at the same time correcting for the effects of confounders. It is one way to ensure that important prognostic factors are equally distributed among different treatments. The ordinary log-rank test is known to be conservative when treatments have been assigned by a stratified design. The stratified log-rank test is valid even when the sizes of strata differ. Schoenfeld and Tsiatis modified the log-rank test with a variance adjustment reflecting the dependence of survival on strata size. Their method is shown to be more efficient than the ordinary stratified log rank test when the number of strata is large, and it remains valid when the censoring distributions differ across treatment groups. In this thesis, we investigate these three log-rank tests for survival analysis. The effect of the stratum sizes on each type of analysis is evaluated using simulated data. Our results show that the modified log rank test is beneficial for stratified survival analysis in most cases especially when there are large numbers of strata and the strata sizes get small. The statistical power of the modified log-rank test is relatively stable even with very small strata sizes and high strata effects. The public health relevance of this thesis is that the modified log-rank test we investigated and implemented using the R programming language provides an alternative and more efficient way to accommodate higher amounts of stratification in analyzing survival data. More efficient statistical methods indirectly have public health impact as such methods lead to analyses which better identify treatments, interventions or factors that influence health outcomes. Such analyses are commonly used in clinical trials and other studies which influence public health } } @article{pittir15776, volume = {93}, number = {4}, month = {April}, author = {YS Yang and AM Koontz and SJ Yeh and JJ Chang}, title = {Effect of backrest height on wheelchair propulsion biomechanics for level and uphill conditions}, journal = {Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation}, pages = {654 -- 659}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15776/}, abstract = {Effect of backrest height on wheelchair propulsion biomechanics for level and uphill conditions. Objective: To evaluate the effect of backrest height on wheelchair propulsion kinematics and kinetics. Design: An intervention study with repeated measures. Setting: University laboratory. Participants: Convenience sample included manual wheelchair users (N=36; 26 men and 10 women) with spinal cord injuries ranging from T8 to L2. Intervention: Participants propelled on a motor-driven treadmill for 2 conditions (level and slope of 3?) at a constant speed of 0.9m/s while using in turn a sling backrest fixed at 40.6cm (16in) high (high backrest) and a lower height set at 50\% trunk length (low backrest). Main Outcome Measures: Cadence, stroke angle, peak shoulder extension angle, shoulder flexion/extension range of motion, and mechanical effective force. Results: Pushing with the low backrest height enabled greater range of shoulder motion (P{\ensuremath{<}}.01), increased stroke angle (P{\ensuremath{<}}.01), push time (P{\ensuremath{<}}.01), and reduced cadence (P=.01) regardless of whether the treadmill was level or sloped. Conclusions: A lower cadence can be achieved when pushing with a lower backrest, which decreases the risk of developing upper-limb overuse related injuries. However, postural support, comfort, and other activities of daily living must also be considered when selecting a backrest height for active, long-term wheelchair users. The improvements found when using the low backrest were found regardless of slope type. Pushing uphill demanded significantly higher resultant and tangential force, torque, mechanical effective force, and cadence. {\copyright} 2012 by the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine.} } @article{pittir15885, volume = {7}, number = {8}, month = {August}, title = {Associations between purine metabolites and clinical symptoms in schizophrenia}, author = {JK Yao and R Condray and GG Dougherty and MS Keshavan and DM Montrose and WR Matson and J McEvoy and R Kaddurah-Daouk and RD Reddy}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15885/}, abstract = {Background: The antioxidant defense system, which is known to be dysregulated in schizophrenia, is closely linked to the dynamics of purine pathway. Thus, alterations in the homeostatic balance in the purine pathway may be involved in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. Methodology/Principal Findings: Breakdown products in purine pathway were measured using high-pressure liquid chromatography coupled with a coulometric multi-electrode array system for 25 first-episode neuroleptic-na{\"i}ve patients with schizophrenia at baseline and at 4-weeks following initiation of treatment with antipsychotic medication. Associations between these metabolites and clinical and neurological symptoms were examined at both time points. The ratio of uric acid and guanine measured at baseline predicted clinical improvement following four weeks of treatment with antipsychotic medication. Baseline levels of purine metabolites also predicted clinical and neurological symtpoms recorded at baseline; level of guanosine was associated with degree of clinical thought disturbance, and the ratio of xanthosine to guanosine at baseline predicted degree of impairment in the repetition and sequencing of actions. Conclusions/Significance: Findings suggest an association between optimal levels of purine byproducts and dynamics in clinical symptoms and adjustment, as well as in the integrity of sensory and motor processing. Taken together, alterations in purine catabolism may have clinical relevance in schizophrenia pathology.} } @article{pittir29933, volume = {14}, number = {2}, month = {April}, title = {Variants in the vitamin D pathway, serum levels of vitamin D, and estrogen receptor negative breast cancer among African-American women: A case-control study}, author = {S Yao and G Zirpoli and DH Bovbjerg and L Jandorf and CC Hong and H Zhao and LE Sucheston and L Tang and M Roberts and G Ciupak and W Davis and H Hwang and CS Johnson and DL Trump and SE McCann and F Ademuyiwa and KS Pawlish and EV Bandera and CB Ambrosone}, year = {2012}, journal = {Breast Cancer Research}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29933/}, abstract = {Introduction: American women of African ancestry (AA) are more likely than European Americans (EA) to have estrogen receptor (ER)-negative breast cancer. 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) is low in AAs, and was associated with ER-negative tumors in EAs. We hypothesized that racial differences in 25OHD levels, as well as in inherited genetic variations, may contribute, in part, to the differences in tumor characteristics.Methods: In a case (n = 928)-control (n = 843) study of breast cancer in AA and EA women, we measured serum 25OHD levels in controls and tested associations between risk and tag single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in VDR, CYP24A1 and CYP27B1, particularly by ER status.Results: More AAs had severe vitamin D deficiency ({\ensuremath{<}} 10 ng/ml) than EAs (34.3\% vs 5.9\%), with lowest levels among those with the highest African ancestry. Associations for SNPs differed by race. Among AAs, VDR SNP rs2239186, associated with higher serum levels of 25OHD, decreased risk after correction for multiple testing (OR = 0.53, 95\% CI = 0.31-0.79, p by permutation = 0.03), but had no effect in EAs. The majority of associations were for ER-negative breast cancer, with seven differential associations between AA and EA women for CYP24A1 (p for interaction {\ensuremath{<}} 0.10). SNP rs27622941 was associated with a {\ensuremath{>}} twofold increased risk of ER-negative breast cancer among AAs (OR = 2.62, 95\% CI = 1.38-4.98), but had no effect in EAs. rs2209314 decreased risk among EAs (OR = 0.38, 95\% CI = 0.20-0.73), with no associations in AAs. The increased risk of ER-negative breast cancer in AAs compared to EAs was reduced and became non-significant (OR = 1.20, 95\% CI = 0.80-1.79) after adjusting for these two CYP24A1 SNPs.Conclusions: These data suggest that genetic variants in the vitamin D pathway may be related to the higher prevalence of ER-negative breast cancer in AA women. {\copyright} 2012 Yao et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir15589, volume = {7}, number = {7}, month = {July}, title = {An IP-10 (CXCL10)-derived peptide inhibits angiogenesis}, author = {CC Yates-Binder and M Rodgers and J Jaynes and A Wells and RJ Bodnar and T Turner}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15589/}, abstract = {Angiogenesis plays a critical role in processes such as organ development, wound healing, and tumor growth. It requires well-orchestrated integration of soluble and matrix factors and timely recognition of such signals to regulate this process. Previous work has shown that newly forming vessels express the chemokine receptor CXC receptor 3 (CXCR3) and, activation by its ligand IP-10 (CXCL10), both inhibits development of new vasculature and causes regression of newly formed vessels. To identify and develop new therapeutic agents to limit or reverse pathological angiogenesis, we identified a 21 amino acid fragment of IP-10, spanning the {\ensuremath{\alpha}}-helical domain residues 77-98, that mimic the actions of the whole IP-10 molecule on endothelial cells. Treatment of the endothelial cells with the 22 amino acid fragment referred to as IP-10p significantly inhibited VEGF-induced endothelial motility and tube formation in vitro, properties critical for angiogenesis. Using a Matrigel plug assay in vivo, we demonstrate that IP-10p both prevented vessel formation and induced involution of nascent vessels. CXCR3 neutralizing antibody was able to block the inhibitory effects of the IP-10p, demonstrating specificity of the peptide. Inhibition of endothelial function by IP-10p was similar to that described for IP-10, secondary to CXCR3-mediated increase in cAMP production, activation of PKA inhibiting cell migration, and inhibition of VEGF-mediated m-calpain activation. IP-10p provides a novel therapeutic agent that inhibits endothelial cell function thus, allowing for the modulation of angiogenesis. {\copyright} 2012 Yates-Binder et al.} } @unpublished{pittir10646, month = {February}, title = {Fluorous Mixture Synthesis (FMS) of Four Isomers of 4,8,12,-Trimethylnonadecanol and the Development of an NMR-based Method for Determining the Configurations of Polyisoprenoid Structures}, author = {An-Hung E. Yeh}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Fluorous Mixture synthesis, FMS, polyisoprenoid, beta-Mannosyl Phosphomycoketide, MPM, O-Phenyl thionocarbonate}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10646/}, abstract = {The chiral polyisoprenoid motif has been identified in various natural products such as vitamin E, chlorophyll-d, and beta-mannosyl phosphomycoketide. This motif features stereocenters bearing branched methyl groups at every fourth carbon of a long alkyl chain. Due to the lack of function group, assigning the configurations of these structures is difficult. Herein, we describe the fluorous mixture synthesis (FMS) of the 4S,8S,12S-, 4S,8R,12S-, 4R,8S,12S-, and 4R,8R,12S-trimethylnonadecanol isomers. The FMS features a new family of ultra-light fluorous O-phenyl thionocarbonate tags and employees the most efficient fluorous tagging strategy to date. The analyses of these four isomers were found to exhibit small but reliable differences in 1H and 13C NMR spectra. Furthermore, these chemical shifts of the branched methyl groups were diagnostic of relative configurations. By deducing the relative relationship between configuration and chemical shift, we developed predictions of 4,8,12,16-tetramethyltricoanol, and 4,8,12,16,20-pentamethyl-heptacosanol.} } @article{pittir24251, volume = {7}, number = {7}, month = {July}, author = {RH Yenchek and JH Ix and MG Shlipak and DC Bauer and NJ Rianon and SB Kritchevsky and TB Harris and AB Newman and JA Cauley and LF Fried}, title = {Bone mineral density and fracture risk in older individuals with CKD}, journal = {Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology}, pages = {1130 -- 1136}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/24251/}, abstract = {Background and objectives Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes guidelines recommend against bone mineral density (BMD) screening in CKD patients withmineral bone disease, due to a lack of association of BMD with fractures in cross-sectional studies in CKD. We assessed whether BMD is associated with fractures in participants with and without CKD in the Health, Aging, and Body Composition study, a prospective study of well functioning older individuals. Design, setting, participants, \& measurements Hip BMD was measured by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Osteoporosis was defined as a femoral neck BMD (FNBMD) T score below 22.5 and CKD as an estimated GFR, 60ml/min per 1.73m 2. The association of BMDwith incident nonspine, fragility fractures to study year 11was analyzed using Cox proportional hazards analyses, adjusting for age, race, sex, body mass index, hyperparathyroidism, low vitaminDlevel, and CKD. Interaction termswere used to assesswhether the association of BMD with fracture differed in those with and without CKD. Results There were 384 incident fractures in 2754 individuals (mean age 73.6 years). Lower FNBMD was associated with greater fracture, regardless of CKD status. After adjustment, the hazard ratios (95\% confidence intervals) were 2.74 (1.99, 3.77) and 2.15 (1.80, 2.57) per lower SD FNBMD for those with and without CKD, respectively (interaction P=0.68), and 2.10 (1.23, 3.59) and 1.63 (1.18, 2.23) among those with osteoporosis in patients with and without CKD, respectively (interaction P=0.75). Conclusions BMD provides information on risk for fracture in older individuals with or without moderate CKD. {\copyright} 2012 by the American Society of Nephrology.} } @article{pittir29840, volume = {7}, month = {September}, title = {Identifying the mechanisms of intron gain: progress and trends}, author = {P Yenerall and L Zhou}, year = {2012}, journal = {Biology Direct}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29840/}, abstract = {Continued improvements in Next-Generation DNA/RNA sequencing coupled with advances in gene annotation have provided researchers access to a plethora of annotated genomes. Subsequent analyses of orthologous gene structures have identified numerous intron gain and loss events that have occurred both recently and in the very distant past. This research has afforded exceptional insight into the temporal and lineage-specific rates of intron gain and loss among various species throughout evolution. Numerous studies have also attempted to identify the molecular mechanisms of intron gain and loss. However, even after considerable effort, very little is known about these processes. In particular, the mechanism(s) of intron gain have proven exceptionally enigmatic and remain topics of considerable debate. Currently, there exists no definitive consensus as to what mechanism(s) may generate introns. Because many introns are known to affect gene expression, it is necessary to understand the molecular process(es) by which introns may be gained. Here we review the seven most commonly purported mechanisms of intron gain and, when possible, summarize molecular evidence for or against the occurrence of each of these mechanisms. Furthermore, we catalogue indirect evidence that supports the occurrence of each mechanism. Finally, because these proposed mechanisms fail to explain the mechanistic origin of many recently gained introns, we also look at trends that may aid researchers in identifying other potential mechanism(s) of intron gain.This article was reviewed by Eugene Koonin, Scott Roy (nominated by W. Ford Doolittle), and John Logsdon. {\copyright} 2012 Yenerall and Zhou; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir15569, volume = {7}, number = {5}, month = {May}, title = {Novel role for the innate immune receptor toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in the regulation of the wnt signaling pathway and photoreceptor apoptosis}, author = {H Yi and AK Patel and CP Sodhi and DJ Hackam and AS Hackam}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/15569/}, abstract = {Recent evidence has implicated innate immunity in regulating neuronal survival in the brain during stroke and other neurodegenerations. Photoreceptors are specialized light-detecting neurons in the retina that are essential for vision. In this study, we investigated the role of the innate immunity receptor TLR4 in photoreceptors. TLR4 activation by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) significantly reduced the survival of cultured mouse photoreceptors exposed to oxidative stress. With respect to mechanism, TLR4 suppressed Wnt signaling, decreased phosphorylation and activation of the Wnt receptor LRP6, and blocked the protective effect of the Wnt3a ligand. Paradoxically, TLR4 activation prior to oxidative injury protected photoreceptors, in a phenomenon known as preconditioning. Expression of TNF{\ensuremath{\alpha}} and its receptors TNFR1 and TNFR2 decreased during preconditioning, and preconditioning was mimicked by TNF{\ensuremath{\alpha}} antagonists, but was independent of Wnt signaling. Therefore, TLR4 is a novel regulator of photoreceptor survival that acts through the Wnt and TNF{\ensuremath{\alpha}} pathways. {\copyright} 2012 Yi et al.} } @unpublished{pittir11902, month = {June}, title = {Capillary HPLC Separation of Selected Neuropeptides}, author = {Ying Yi}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Capillary HPLC, peptide separation, thermally tuned tandem capillary columns}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11902/}, abstract = {Neuropeptides play a pivotal role in brain and peripheral nervous system function. As high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) becomes the central tool in the separation and characterization of peptide and protein samples, its selectivity optimization has attracted increasing attention. This research program aims to develop useful, quantitative analysis methods for neuropeptides and their hydrolysis fragments by capillary HPLC. Related peptide pairs are successfully separated, such as leu-enkephalin and [Des-Tyr1] leu-enkephalin, dynorphin A and dynorphin B, galanin and its fragment Gal1-16. The hydrolysis of leu-enkephalin to [Des-Tyr1] leu-enkephalin by organotypic hippocampal slice cultures (OHSCs) can be monitored by the same HPLC system. The separation of seven hippocampal neuropeptides with similar hydrophobicity, Bj-PRO-5a, [Des-Tyr1] leu-enkephalin, leu-enkephalin, pentagastrin, Antho-RW-amide I, dynorphin A 1-6 and angiotensin II, is accomplished by thermally tuned tandem capillary columns (T3C). The chromatographic selectivity is continuously, systematically and significantly optimized by individual adjustment of each column?s temperature. The T3C concept is applied for the first time with capillary columns, which is an important step towards optimization of selectivity for separations of small samples by liquid chromatography.} } @unpublished{pittir13229, month = {October}, title = {THREE ESSAYS ON HOUSING AND CREDIT}, author = {Xu Yilan}, year = {2012}, keywords = {deregulation; foreclosure; credit access; housing consumption; nonlocal lending; securitization}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13229/}, abstract = {The late-2000s financial crisis has brought great attention to housing market and home mortgage market. I study housing and credit issues using evidence from the United States and China. In Chapter 1, I examine how a court-mandated repeal of a home mortgage regulation in Cleveland affected home foreclosures. To distinguish the effect of deregulation from confounding factors, I apply a difference-in-difference research design using suburbs as the control group for Cleveland. Results indicate that deregulation caused a 49 percent increase in early foreclosures while it did not increase total loan originations. This result implies that bad loans as a share of overall loans increased substantially. In Chapter 2, I evaluate the impact of housing provident funds (HPFs), saving programs that collect deposits from employees and their employers and provide mortgage loans with discounted rates. I exploit a natural experiment in China where the amount of home loans available to employees depends on previous deposits to the fund. Results indicate that after HPF loans became available in 1998, households with two members enrolled in the HPF program enjoyed homeownership 18 percent greater than those with only one member enrolled. Furthermore, each additional year of HPF deposits increased homeownership by 4 percent. The results suggest that HPF loans allow higher housing consumption for eligible contributors. In Chapter 3, my coauthor and I document that home mortgage loans made by out-of-state banks without local branches are more likely to have high interest rates and are sold more to the secondary market than other types of mortgages. Drawing evidence from Home Mortgage Disclosure Act Data from 2005 to 2008, we find that the demand for nonlocal mortgages is larger in the neighborhood where local banks' denial rate is higher. And banks make more nonlocal mortgages to out-of-state borrowers if they have better access to the secondary market. The results suggest that securitization may provide bad incentives for risk-taking. } } @article{pittir14428, volume = {91}, number = {6}, month = {June}, author = {M Yildirim and F Seymen and K Deeley and ME Cooper and AR Vieira}, title = {Defining predictors of cleft lip and palate risk}, journal = {Journal of Dental Research}, pages = {556 -- 561}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14428/}, abstract = {Individuals with clefts present considerably more dental anomalies than individuals without clefts. We also have shown that these individuals report cancer in their families more often than do unaffected individuals. We investigated how these conditions correlated with genetic variants associated with clefts to ascertain if specific molecular signatures exist that could help identify individuals at risk for having offspring with these defects. We examined 573 individuals, 158 with clefts, 254 unaffected family members, and 161 non-related controls. Several clinical features, such as laterality, the presence of dental anomalies, medical history, and pregnancy history, were used to assess each individual's cleft status. Then, we performed molecular studies with genes that have been independently associated with oral clefts. We analyzed two datasets: nuclear families and case-control individuals where the case was the child from the family and controls were unrelated non-clefted individuals. In the family data, we confirmed association between clefts and rs987525 on chromosome 8 (p = 0.007) and found an association with rs987525 and tooth agenesis (p = 0.0003). In the case-control data, clefts, supernumerary teeth and familial cancer history were associated with ABCA4-rs481931 on chromosome 1 (p = 2E-19, 0.0007, 2E-06, respectively), and clefts and microdontia were associated with rs1325474 on chromosome 6 (p = 1E-06, 0.0002, respectively). {\copyright} 2012 International \& American Associations for Dental Research.} } @unpublished{pittir12051, month = {June}, title = {THE IMPACT OF ADVERTISING AND USER-GENERATED CONTENT ON MEDIA BIAS }, author = {Tuba Pinar Yildirim}, year = {2012}, keywords = {media bias, advertising, user-generated content}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12051/}, abstract = {This dissertation consists of two studies that investigate the impact of advertising and user-generated content on media bias. The first study analyzes how advertising revenues in addition to subscription revenues play a role in affecting the extent of media bias. When making advertising choices, advertisers evaluate both the size and the composition of the readership of the different outlets. The profile of the readers matters since advertisers wish to target readers who are likely to be receptive to their advertising messages. It is demonstrated that when advertising supplements subscription fees, it may serve as a polarizing or moderating force, contingent upon the extent of heterogeneity among advertisers in appealing to readers having different political preferences. When heterogeneity is large, each advertiser chooses a single outlet for placing ads (Single-Homing), and greater polarization arises in comparison to the case that media relies only on subscription fees for revenues. In contrast, when heterogeneity is small, each advertiser chooses to place ads in multiple outlets (Multi-Homing), and reduced polarization results. In the second study, a newspaper?s decision to expand its product line by adding an online edition that incorporates user-generated content and the impact of this decision on its slanting of news are investigated. It is demonstrated that adding an online edition results in reduced profits for competing newspapers in comparison to an environment in which they offer only print editions. However, at the equilibrium, each newspaper offers the online version in order to avoid losing market share to rivals. } } @article{pittir16736, volume = {3}, number = {1}, author = {Amy M Yonick and Megan Branning and Nicole Henline}, title = {CLP LYNCS: Bringing a Library to the Pittsburgh Public Market}, publisher = {Western New York Library Resources Council}, journal = {Journal of Library Innovation}, pages = {111 -- 125}, year = {2012}, keywords = {marketing, public, market, library, outpost}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16736/}, abstract = {Libraries are evolving and always thinking of new and creative ways to reach customers. The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh devised a new initiative called the Library in Your Neighborhood, Community and School (LYNCS), and its first product was a new library service point located in the indoor Pittsburgh Public Market (PPM). The library service point was planned and launched in approximately four months after a unique collaboration with the nearby MLIS students at the University of Pittsburgh. The CLP-LYNCS: PPM was the first of its kind in Southwestern Pennsylvania. With its unique hours, it serves weekend patrons in a bustling Pittsburgh neighborhood that attracts users from all over the county.} } @article{pittir10958, volume = {56}, number = {1}, month = {January}, author = {H Yoon and J Hwang and MBH Weiss}, title = {An analytic research on secondary-spectrum trading mechanisms based on technical and market changes}, journal = {Computer Networks}, pages = {3 -- 19}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10958/}, abstract = {Because of increasing spectrum demand, the value of the spectrum resource has been increasing, and efficiency of spectrum usage has been an important issue in the wireless industry. Therefore, there have recently been many studies of changing the spectrum management framework based on market mechanisms. This research analyses three different mechanisms as alternative secondary trading frameworks: a brokerage mechanism, auction and direct trading, and suggests an optimal framework for secondary-use trading based on in-depth simulations that consider different attributes according to their technical characteristics and market changes. Based on the analysis, this study investigates economic values and competition environments of each alternative for secondary trading mechanisms. {\copyright} 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.} } @unpublished{pittir6163, month = {February}, title = {MULTIRIDGELETS FOR TEXTURE ANALYSIS}, author = {Hong-Jun Yoon}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Wavelet, Ridgelet, Multiridgelet, Cardinal Multiridgelet, Image Texture Analysis, Prostate Cancer Classification}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/6163/}, abstract = {Directional wavelets have orientation selectivity and thus are able to efficiently represent highly anisotropic elements such as line segments and edges. Ridgelet transform is a kind of directional multi-resolution transform and has been successful in many image processing and texture analysis applications. The objective of this research is to develop multi-ridgelet transform by applying multiwavelet transform to the Radon transform so as to attain attractive improvements. By adapting the cardinal orthogonal multiwavelets to the ridgelet transform, it is shown that the proposed cardinal multiridgelet transform (CMRT) possesses cardinality, approximate translation invariance, and approximate rotation invariance simultaneously, whereas no single ridgelet transform can hold all these properties at the same time. These properties are beneficial to image texture analysis. This is demonstrated in three studies of texture analysis applications. Firstly a texture database retrieval study taking a portion of the Brodatz texture album as an example has demonstrated that the CMRT-based texture representation for database retrieval performed better than other directional wavelet methods. Secondly the study of the LCD mura defect detection was based upon the classification of simulated abnormalities with a linear support vector machine classifier, the CMRT-based analysis of defects were shown to provide efficient features for superior detection performance than other competitive methods. Lastly and the most importantly, a study on the prostate cancer tissue image classification was conducted. With the CMRT-based texture extraction, Gaussian kernel support vector machines have been developed to discriminate prostate cancer Gleason grade 3 versus grade 4. Based on a limited database of prostate specimens, one classifier was trained to have remarkable test performance. This approach is unquestionably promising and is worthy to be fully developed.} } @unpublished{pittir13744, month = {October}, title = {Grounding Mental Content}, author = {Christine Young}, year = {2012}, keywords = {intentionality, mental content, rationality, behavior, perception}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13744/}, abstract = {GROUNDING MENTAL CONTENT Christine Young, PhD University of Pittsburgh, 2012 Beliefs and desires? functions as bases for action are essential for their contents. A belief can only be a basis for a particular action if it is about the object targeted by that action. Whether a belief can legitimately play that role for an action depends on its intentional relation with the world. However, one can have beliefs about objects which do not exist. The intentionality of empty beliefs cannot be construed as a relation between these beliefs and external objects. Yet without this belief-object connection, they can still function legitimately as bases for action. How is this possible? What we need is an adequate account of how a belief?s intentionality is grounded. But perhaps grounding does not have to take the form of an intentional relation between a token belief and its referent. It can be more indirect and complex, so that beliefs? functions as bases for action are not jeopardized by non-existence of their referents. One thing seems undeniable. One can only have beliefs about particular objects, if one interacts with the world. The question is: how are beliefs grounded in such interactions? This is the central question for my dissertation. This essay has four chapters. In the first chapter, I consider the idea that all empty thoughts can be grounded in object-dependent thoughts in subject-world interactions. The arguments I will consider are Gareth Evans's in Varieties of Reference. I will argue that these arguments do not succeed. In the second section, I will consider a materialist proposal: thoughts are grounded in virtue of causal properties of subject-world interactions. For this section, I will examine Dretske's functionalism in Explaining Behavior. I will argue that intentionality cannot arise from causal structures. In the third chapter, I will present my own positive view. The main ideas are: 1) intentionality of token beliefs or desires is grounded in the subject's representational capacities, 2) these capacities are grounded in how their development actualize the subject's intentional potential. The final chapter presents application of my positive views to contemporary debates. } } @inproceedings{pittir18999, volume = {7675 L}, month = {December}, title = {A comparison of action transitions in individual and collaborative exploratory web search}, author = {Z Yue and S Han and D He}, year = {2012}, pages = {52 -- 63}, journal = {Lecture Notes in Computer Science (including subseries Lecture Notes in Artificial Intelligence and Lecture Notes in Bioinformatics)}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18999/}, abstract = {Collaboration in Web search can be characterized as implicit or explicit in terms of intent, and synchronous or asynchronous in terms of concurrency. Different collaboration style may greatly affect search actions. This paper presents a user study aiming to compare search processes in three different conditions: pair of users working on the same Web search tasks synchronously with explicit communication, pair of users working on the same Web search tasks asynchronously without explicit communication and single users work separately. Our analysis of search processes focused on the transition of user search actions logged in our exploratory Web search system called Collab-Search. The results show that the participants exhibited different patterns of search actions under different conditions. We also found that explicit communication is one of the possible sources for users to obtain ideas of queries, and the explicit communication between users also promotes their implicit communication. Finally this study provides some guidance on the range of behaviors and activities that a collaborative search system should support. {\copyright} Springer-Verlag 2012.} } @inproceedings{pittir19006, month = {December}, title = {Search tactics as means of examining search processes in collaborative exploratory web search}, author = {Z Yue and S Han and J Jiang and D He}, year = {2012}, pages = {59 -- 66}, journal = {International Conference on Information and Knowledge Management, Proceedings}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19006/}, abstract = {Investigations on search processes can either be at macro-level or micro-level. The macro-level investigation focuses on establishing theoretical models while micro-level investigation focuses on the user actions. In this paper, we propose using search tactics as means of examining search processes in collaborative exploratory search, which can be seen as a middle layer between the macrolevel and micro-level. We reported a user study in which participants worked on exploratory Web search tasks using our CollabSearch system under two conditions: collaborative and individual. Using the two methods - action pairs and Hidden Markov Model (HMM) to model search tactics, we discovered some insights about the different patterns of search tactics that participants explored under collaborative and individual search conditions. In the future, we plan to improve the HMM model as a semi-automatic way to detect search tactics. In this study, we further analyze a particular search tactic - query reformulation in collaborative search and discovered the possible sources of new query terms. In the future, we plan to implement a query suggestion algorithm to better support team users' query reformulation tactics. This study provides some guidance for designers on the range of behaviors and activities that a collaborative search system should support. Further studies are needed to fully understand them. Copyright {\copyright} 2012 ACM.} } @inproceedings{pittir19001, month = {December}, title = {Where do the query terms come from? An analysis of query reformulation in collaborative web search}, author = {Z Yue and J Jiang and S Han and D He}, year = {2012}, pages = {2595 -- 2598}, journal = {ACM International Conference Proceeding Series}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/19001/}, abstract = {This paper presents a user study aiming to investigate the query reformulation in collaborative Web search. 7 pairs of participants were recruited and each pair worked as a team on two collaborative exploratory Web search tasks. Through the log analysis, we compared possible sources for participants to draw query terms from. The results show that both search and collaborative actions are possible resources for new query terms. Traditional resources for query expansion such as previous search histories and relevant documents are still important resources for new query terms. The content in chat and workspace generated by participants themselves seems more likely to be the resource for new query terms than that of their partners. Task types also affect the influences on query reformulations. For the academic task, previously saved relevance documents are the most important resources for new query terms while chat histories are the most important resources for the leisure task. {\copyright} 2012 ACM.} } @article{pittir16729, volume = {3}, number = {1}, month = {January}, author = {O Y{\"u}cel and B Sareyyupoglu and Y Toyoda}, title = {Donor lung selection criteria and surgical application at University of Pittsburgh}, journal = {Journal of Clinical and Analytical Medicine}, pages = {80 -- 87}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16729/}, abstract = {Lung transplantation is the standard treatment for patients with end-stage lung disease. Unfortunately scarce source of donor organs, particularly in lungs, limits this selected treatment to very few recipients each year. To decrease waiting list deaths and provide organs to more diverse recipient population, widening selection criteria of donor lungs was offered. Besides expanded criteria in organ selection to increase lung transplant surgery, donation after cardiac death and ex-vivo lung perfusion were introduced to current medicine. University of Pittsburgh in last decade doubled its lung transplant volume by extending the acceptance criteria for donor lungs for which many other centers would decline in first line or some selected centers may try ex-vivo perfusion protocols on these lungs. Nonetheless successful transplant surgery requires successful donor procurement surgery. Based on this practice, we wanted to review the Pittsburgh model of expanding lung donor selection criteria and surgery for donor lung procurement.} } @unpublished{pittir11631, month = {July}, title = {DNA REPLICATION IN ARCHAEA: PRIMING, TRANSFERASE, AND ELONGATION ACTIVITIES}, author = {ZHONGFENG ZUO}, year = {2012}, keywords = {ARCHAEA, DNA PRIMASE, DNA POLYMERASE, DNA TERMINAL TRANSFERASE, SULFOLOBUS SOLFATARICUS}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11631/}, abstract = {We have biochemically characterized the bacterial-like DnaG primase contained within the hyperthermophilic crenarchaeon Sulfolobus solfataricus (Sso) and compared in vitro priming kinetics with those of the eukaryotic-like primase (PriS\&L) also found in Sso. SsoDnaG exhibited metal- and temperature-dependent profiles consistent with priming at high temperatures. The distribution of primer products for SsoDnaG was discrete but highly similar to the distribution of primer products produced by the homologous Escherichia coli DnaG. The predominant primer length was 13 bases, although less abundant products of varying sizes are also present. SsoDnaG was found to bind DNA cooperatively as a dimer with a moderate dissociation constant. Mutation of the conserved glutamate in the active site severely inhibited priming activity, showing functional homology with E. coli DnaG. SsoDnaG was also found to have a greater than four-fold faster rate of DNA priming over that of SsoPriS\&L under optimal in vitro conditions. The presence of both enzymatically functional primase families in archaea suggests that the DNA priming role may be shared on leading or lagging strands during DNA replication. DNA replication polymerases have the inherent ability to faithfully copy a DNA template according to Watson Crick base pairing. The primary B-family DNA replication polymerase (Dpo1) in Sso is shown here to possess a remarkable DNA stabilizing ability for maintaining weak base pairing interactions to facilitate primer extension. This thermal stabilization by SsoDpo1 allowed for template-directed synthesis at temperatures more than 30 ?C above the melting temperature of naked DNA. Surprisingly, SsoDpo1 also displays a terminal deoxynucleotide transferase (TdT) activity unlike any other B-family DNA polymerases. SsoDpo1 is shown to elongate single stranded DNA in template-dependent and template-independent manners. The multiple activities of this unique B-family DNA polymerase make this enzyme an essential component for DNA replication and DNA repair for the maintenance of the archaeal genome at high temperatures. Preliminary results of primer transfer studies in Sso show that SsoDpo1 can elongate DNA primers de novo synthesized by SsoPriS\&L, but elongation of RNA primers synthesized by both SsoPriS\&L and SsoDnaG was not observed for SsoDpo1. Future studies to untangle the primer transfer mechanism in archaea are discussed. } } @inproceedings{pittir12637, booktitle = {OTS'2012}, month = {June}, title = {Large-scale collective intelligence: from in the way to on the way}, author = {Vladimir Zadorozhny}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12637/}, abstract = {The amount of data available due to the rapid spread of advanced information technology is exploding. Nowadays, various groups and research communities worldwide continuously contribute numerous data sets. It is expected that this data will be efficiently utilized for data-driven decision making, which is crucial for interdisciplinary research where a comprehensive picture of the subject requires large amounts of data from disparate data sources. For example, epidemiological data analysis often relies upon knowledge of population dynamics, climate change, migration of species, drug development, etc. Despite its increasing availability, the data cannot be properly utilized by a research community for efficient decision making. The existing data sources are mostly used for regional comparative efforts; they vary widely in degree of consistency, reliability, completeness, as well as in data representation format. Managing this data is beyond capabilities of individual research groups and institutions. The data flood challenge is caused by collective effort of large communities. The related task of large-scale data utilization should also be resolved via collaborative efforts within a large network of researchers. I consider an approach that supports efficient "crowdsourcing" of large-scale information consolidation and utilization task. I elaborate on challenges in developing an infrastructure that engages large community of researchers to share their data; collectively resolve the data discrepancies; and harmonize their efforts in data reliability assessment, data fusion and data-driven decision making.} } @article{pittir22453, volume = {78}, number = {240}, month = {August}, author = {C{\'e}sar Zamorano}, title = {Genevi{\`e}ve Fabry y Claudio Canaparo (eds.), {\ensuremath{<}}i{\ensuremath{>}}El enigma de lo real. Las fronteras del realismo en la narrativa del siglo XX}, journal = {Revista Iberoamericana}, pages = {725 -- 728}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22453/} } @unpublished{pittir10729, month = {February}, title = {HACIA UN CUARTO CINE: VIOLENCIA, MARGINALIDAD, MEMORIA Y NUEVOS ESCENARIOS GLOBALES EN VENTI{\'U}N PEL{\'I}CULAS LATINOAMERICANAS }, author = {Jorge Zavaleta Balarezo}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Contemporary Latin American film, Violence, Marginalities, Southern Cone dictatorships, Neoliberalism, Latin American literature, Cultural Studies}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10729/}, abstract = {Contemporary Latin American cinema features a series of realist portraits and testimonies, in which young filmmakers develop their own visions of the new conditions of life on the continent. This dissertation looks at these specific cinematic visions of beings who survive on the edges of marginality and violence. The dissertation is articulated specifically along topics representing critical approaches to movies produced in Argentina, Colombia, Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Mexico. The works of a new generation of filmmakers including Alejandro Gonz{\'a}lez I{\~n}{\'a}rritu, Lucrecia Martel, Israel Adri{\'a}n Caetano, Carlos Reygadas and Fernando Meirelles uncover a series of erosions of the social composition of the countries where these directors live. In addition, their films {--}as lucid and contradictory cultural artifacts representing a new era that is characterized by easier access to technology{--} tell us about the expansion and development of neoliberalism in Latin America starting in the late 1980?s and the harmful consequences of this economic model. Chapters One and Two analyze the conditions of marginality and violence in Latin American cities represented by movies such as Amores Perros, Ciudad de Dios and Pizza, Birra, Faso. Experiences of social exclusion and poverty reflect aspects of life in the new century in one of the most conflictive regions of the world. Chapter Three is specifically devoted to restoring and maintaining the memory of the bloody years of the Southern Cone military dictatorships, in the 1970?s and 1980?s, during which thousands of people disappeared and national tragedies occurred, as dictators claimed they were carrying out a frontal assault on Communism. Chapter Four approaches new global scenarios, including films like Batalla en el cielo, El aura and El secreto de sus ojos. In these movies a perspective of negotiation and exchange of subjectivities is presented, influenced by some European master filmmakers (Antonioni, Bergman, Tarkovsky). This dissertation argues that contemporary Latin American cinema is gaining prestige and has become an art to which the academic field looks with interest and enthusiasm. It confirms the possibility of experimental art without boundaries, one that raises crucial questions. } } @unpublished{pittir13633, month = {October}, title = {Computational Studies of Chemical Systems: I. A Molecular Dynamics Simulation of Methane Hydrate; II. Theoretical Investigation of Water Loading on a Pyrophyllite (001) Surface}, author = {Guozhen Zhang}, year = {2012}, keywords = {molecular dynamics, thermal conductivity, methane hydrate, density functional theory, clay surface, hydrophobicity}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13633/}, abstract = {This dissertation consists of two independent parts: Part I. methane hydrate, and Part II. water loading on a clay surface. In Part I (chapter 2-3), we conducted molecular dynamics simulations with non-polarizable force fields to study structural and thermal properties of methane hydrate. We show that the TIP4P/Ice and TIP4P/2005 model potentials do well in the description of the lattice constant and radial distribution functions. Yet they, together with SPC/E and TIP4P models, overestimate the thermal expansion coefficient due to the inadequate description of the non-linear response of lattice constant to temperature. We also show that TIP4P/Ice and TIP4P/2005 overestimate the decomposition temperature of methane hydrate from the experimental value by 50 K and 30 K respectively, while SPC/E gives a good estimation deviating by about 5 K. All these force fields are found to overestimate the thermal conductivity of methane hydrate, but they are able to describe the weak temperature dependence from 100 to 150 K and 225 to 270 K. It is also found that all initial structures used in the work have a proton ordering tendency, suggesting a potential role of proton arrangement in the temperature dependence of the thermal conductivity. In part II (chapter 4), we conducted dispersion-corrected density function theory (DFT-D) and classical force field calculations to study the water loading on a pyrophyllite (001) surface. We disclose low-energy binding motifs from one water molecule to six water molecules and reinterpret the hydrophobic nature of the pyrophyllite surface from the point of view that a water molecule prefers to interact with other water molecules than to be bound on the surface. The force field approach, while providing a similar trend of the water binding to the DFT-D result, predicts some low-energy binding motifs which are not confirmed by the DFT-D calculation. It suggests a refinement of the force field to better describe the interfacial orientation of water on a clay surface.} } @unpublished{pittir22889, booktitle = {Webinar on Chinese Rare Book Cataloging}, month = {June}, title = {Chinese Rare Book Cataloging: Descriptive Cataloging Focus}, author = {Haihui Zhang}, year = {2012}, note = {The two-hour webinar was organized by Committee on Technical Processing of Council for East Asian Libraries (CEAL) on June 13, 2012. More than fifty librarians from East Asia libraries in North America participated.}, keywords = {Chinese, rare, books, cataloging, library, science}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/22889/} } @article{pittir17320, volume = {84}, number = {15}, month = {August}, author = {JT Zhang and N Smith and SA Asher}, title = {Two-dimensional photonic crystal surfactant detection}, journal = {Analytical Chemistry}, pages = {6416 -- 6420}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17320/}, abstract = {We developed a novel two-dimensional (2-D) crystalline colloidal array photonic crystal sensing material for the visual detection of amphiphilic molecules in water. A close-packed polystyrene 2-D array monolayer was embedded in a poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAAm)-based hydrogel film. These 2-D photonic crystals placed on a mirror show intense diffraction that enables them to be used for visual determination of analytes. Binding of surfactant molecules attaches ions to the sensor that swells the PNIPAAm-based hydrogel. The resulting increase in particle spacing red shifts the 2-D diffracted light. Incorporation of more hydrophobic monomers increases the sensitivity to surfactants. {\copyright} 2012 American Chemical Society.} } @article{pittir17352, volume = {51}, number = {25}, month = {June}, author = {JT Zhang and L Wang and DN Lamont and SS Velankar and SA Asher}, title = {Fabrication of large-area two-dimensional colloidal crystals}, journal = {Angewandte Chemie - International Edition}, pages = {6117 -- 6120}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17352/}, abstract = {Nanoparticle coating: A suspension of colloidal particles in a water/propanol solution was layered onto a water surface, where the particles self-assembled into ordered two-dimensional hexagonal crystal arrays ({\ensuremath{>}}280 cm 2) within two minutes. These arrays were transferred from the water surface to other substrates (see picture) and embedded in a chitosan hydrogel for visual detection of the pH value. Copyright {\copyright} 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH \& Co. KGaA, Weinheim.} } @incollection{pittir18814, month = {January}, title = {Towards reliable spatial information in LBSNs}, author = {K Zhang and W Jeng and F Fofie and K Pelechrinis and P Krishnamurthy}, year = {2012}, pages = {950 -- 955}, journal = {UbiComp'12 - Proceedings of the 2012 ACM Conference on Ubiquitous Computing}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/18814/}, abstract = {The proliferation of Location-based Social Networks (LBSNs) has been rapid during the last year due to the number of novel services they can support. The main interaction between users in an LBSN is location sharing, which builds the spatial component of the system. The majority of the LBSNs make use of the notion of check-in, to enable users to volunteeringly share their whereabouts with their peers and the system. The flow of this spatial information is unidirectional and originates from the users' side. Given that currently there is no infrastructure in place for detecting fake checkins, the quality of the spatial information plane of an LBSN is solely based on the honesty of the users. In this paper, we seek to raise the awareness of the community for this problem, by identifying and discussing the effects of the presence of fake location information. We further present a preliminary design of a fake check-in detection scheme, based on location-proofs. Our initial simulation results show that if we do not consider the infrastructural constraints, locationproofs can form a viable technical solution. Copyright 2012 ACM.} } @unpublished{pittir13044, month = {September}, title = {Growth Mixture Modeling to Identify Patterns of the Development of Acute Liver Failure in Children}, author = {Song Zhang}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Acute liver failure, Mixture growth modeling, Latent classes, Growth trajectory}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13044/}, abstract = {Pediatric Acute Liver Failure (PALF) is a clinical syndrome in which the affected children lose hepatic function and become critically ill within days. The causes of PALF remain indeterminate for about half of the cases. Liver transplantation is a lifesaving procedure but has long term adverse effects. It is critical to advance clinical insight by distinguishing patients who die without liver transplantation from those who are able to survive without transplantation. The PALF study is a multicenter study for children under 18 years old who present with acute liver failure. The study collected clinical and laboratory data for the first 7 days or until one of the events: death, transplantation or discharge occurred within 7 days following study enrollment. Growth Mixture Modeling (GMM) was applied to detect the trajectory patterns of INR (International Normalized Ratio) for hepatic-based coagulation through the first 7 days. Three subgroups were identified by INR trajectories with 10.3\% classified as high-INR, 34.7\% as middle-INR and 55.0\% as low-INR. The children with an indeterminate diagnosis were more likely to be classified into the high-INR group (p{\ensuremath{<}}0.0001) than were children with a specific diagnosis. The mortality without liver transplantation within 21 days of study entry was similar between the children in the high-INR group (19\%) and in the middle-INR group (17\%), (p=0.70). The percentage of participants having liver transplantation was significantly higher among the children in the high-INR group (61\%) than those in the middle-INR group (46\%), (p=0.01). INR is used as a biomarker for determining the need of liver transplantation. Children with an indeterminate diagnosis were more likely to be in the high-INR group, and more likely to undergo liver transplantation as compared to other children with a specified diagnosis. The results suggest that INR was not a strong indicator for death without liver transplantation. Further studies should attempt to reveal biological mechanisms among the indeterminate diagnosis patients. This study has public health significance for its design to better understand the mechanism and progression of the children with acute liver failure from a multi-center collaboration. } } @article{pittir14176, volume = {7}, number = {4}, month = {April}, title = {Analysis of regulatory network involved in mechanical induction of embryonic stem cell differentiation}, author = {X Zhang and M Jaramillo and S Singh and P Kumta and I Banerjee}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14176/}, abstract = {Embryonic stem cells are conventionally differentiated by modulating specific growth factors in the cell culture media. Recently the effect of cellular mechanical microenvironment in inducing phenotype specific differentiation has attracted considerable attention. We have shown the possibility of inducing endoderm differentiation by culturing the stem cells on fibrin substrates of specific stiffness [1]. Here, we analyze the regulatory network involved in such mechanically induced endoderm differentiation under two different experimental configurations of 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional culture, respectively. Mouse embryonic stem cells are differentiated on an array of substrates of varying mechanical properties and analyzed for relevant endoderm markers. The experimental data set is further analyzed for identification of co-regulated transcription factors across different substrate conditions using the technique of bi-clustering. Overlapped bi-clusters are identified following an optimization formulation, which is solved using an evolutionary algorithm. While typically such analysis is performed at the mean value of expression data across experimental repeats, the variability of stem cell systems reduces the confidence on such analysis of mean data. Bootstrapping technique is thus integrated with the bi-clustering algorithm to determine sets of robust bi-clusters, which is found to differ significantly from corresponding bi-clusters at the mean data value. Analysis of robust bi-clusters reveals an overall similar network interaction as has been reported for chemically induced endoderm or endodermal organs but with differences in patterning between 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional culture. Such analysis sheds light on the pathway of stem cell differentiation indicating the prospect of the two culture configurations for further maturation. {\copyright} 2012 Zhang et al.} } @article{pittir29894, volume = {8}, month = {May}, title = {Inflammation-induced changes in BK {\ensuremath{<}}inf{\ensuremath{>}}Ca{\ensuremath{<}}/inf{\ensuremath{>}} currents in cutaneous dorsal root ganglion neurons from the adult rat}, author = {XL Zhang and LP Mok and KY Lee and M Charbonnet and MS Gold}, year = {2012}, journal = {Molecular Pain}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29894/}, abstract = {Background: Inflammation-induced sensitization of primary afferents is associated with a decrease in K current. However, the type of K + current and basis for the decrease varies as a function of target of innervation. Because glabrous skin of the rat hindpaw is used often to assess changes in nociception in models of persistent pain, the purpose of the present study was to determine the type and extent to which K + currents contribute to the inflammation-induced sensitization of cutaneous afferents. Acutely dissociated retrogradely labeled cutaneous dorsal root ganglion neurons from na{\"i}ve and inflamed (3 days post complete Freund's adjuvant injection) rats were studied with whole cell and perforated patch techniques. Results: Inflammation-induced sensitization of small diameter cutaneous neurons was associated with an increase in action potential duration and rate of decay of the afterhyperpolarization. However, no changes in voltage-gated K + currents were detected. In contrast, CaK 2+ modulated iberiotoxin sensitive and paxilline sensitive K + (BK Ca) currents were significantly smaller in small diameter IB4+ neurons. This decrease in current was not associated with a detectable change in total protein levels of the BK Ca channel a or {\ss} subunits. Single cell PCR analysis revealed a significant change in the pattern of expression of a subunit splice variants and {\ss} subunits that were consistent, at least in part, with inflammation-induced changes in the biophysical properties of BK Ca currents in cutaneous neurons. Conclusions: Results of this study provide additional support for the conclusion that it may be possible, if not necessary to selectively treat pain arising from specific body regions. Because a decrease in BK Ca current appears to contribute to the inflammation-induced sensitization of cutaneous afferents, BK Ca channel openers may be effective for the treatment of inflammatory pain. {\copyright} 2012 Zhang et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir16706, volume = {7}, month = {December}, title = {Incorporation of a selective sigma-2 receptor ligand enhances uptake of liposomes by multiple cancer cells}, author = {Y Zhang and Y Huang and P Zhang and X Gao and RB Gibbs and S Li}, year = {2012}, pages = {4473 -- 4485}, journal = {International Journal of Nanomedicine}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16706/}, abstract = {Background: The sigma-2 receptor is an attractive target for tumor imaging and targeted therapy because it is overexpressed in multiple types of solid tumors, including prostate cancer, breast cancer, and lung cancer. SV119 is a synthetic small molecule that binds to sigma-2 receptors with high affinity and specificity. This study investigates the utility of SV119 in mediating the selective targeting of liposomal vectors in various types of cancer cells. Methods: SV119 was covalently linked with polyethylene glycol-dioleyl amido aspartic acid conjugate (PEG-DOA) to generate a novel functional lipid, SV119-PEG-DOA. This lipid was utilized for the preparation of targeted liposomes to enhance their uptake by cancer cells. Liposomes with various SV119 densities (0, 1, 3, and 5 mole\%) were prepared and their cellular uptake was investigated in several tumor cell lines. In addition, doxorubicin (DOX) was loaded into the targeted and unmodified liposomes, and the cytotoxic effect on the DU-145 cells was evaluated by MTT assay. Results: Liposomes with or without SV119-PEG-DOA both have a mean diameter of approximately 90 nm and a neutral charge. The incorporation of SV119-PEG-DOA significantly increased the cellular uptake of liposomes by the DU-145, PC-3, A549, 201T, and MCF-7 tumor cells, which was shown by fluorescence microscopy and the quantitative measurement of fluorescence intensity. In contrast, the incorporation of SV119 did not increase the uptake of liposomes by the normal BEAS-2B cells. In a time course study, the uptake of SV119 liposomes by DU-145 cells was also significantly higher at each time point compared to the unmodified liposomes. Furthermore, the DOX-loaded SV119 liposomes showed significantly higher cytotoxicity to DU-145 cells compared to the DOX-loaded unmodified liposomes. Conclusion: SV119 liposomes were developed for targeted drug delivery to cancer cells. The targeting efficiency and specificity of SV119 liposomes to cancer cells was demonstrated in vitro. The results of this study suggest that SV119-modified liposomes might be a promising drug carrier for tumor-targeted delivery. {\copyright} 2012 Zhang et al, publisher and licensee Dove Medical Press Ltd.} } @unpublished{pittir13135, month = {September}, title = {MODEL STUDY OF PLATINUM NANOPARTICLE INTERACTIONS WITH {\ensuremath{\gamma}}-ALUMINA SINGLE CRYSTAL SUPPORTS }, author = {Zhongfan Zhang}, year = {2012}, keywords = {{\ensuremath{\gamma}}-Al2O3 single crystal, NiAl alloy, oxidation, thin film growth, epitaxy, Pt nanoparticles, model catalyst, equilibrium shape, adhesion, interface, support interaction}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/13135/}, abstract = {Pt/{\ensuremath{\gamma}}-Al2O3 is arguably the most important heterogeneous catalyst system, as it is used in numerous technologically important processes, including oil refining, catalytic converters and fuel cells. Hence, many investigators have studied Pt/{\ensuremath{\gamma}}-Al2O3 both experimentally and theoretically. Yet, a significant gap exists between experiment and theory since theory models well defined finite systems whereas the commercially available {\ensuremath{\gamma}}-Al2O3 is polycrystalline with ill-defined morphologies, crystallography and impurities. The goal of this thesis project is to synthesize a model Pt/{\ensuremath{\gamma}}-Al2O3 heterogeneous catalyst system which is in the appropriate size regime for theoretical modeling. The critical challenge of this project is the creation of single crystal {\ensuremath{\gamma}}-Al2O3 thin films. To achieve this goal, the growth of single crystal {\ensuremath{\gamma}}-Al2O3 thin film on NiAl(110) surface was systematically investigated by oxidation in dry ambient air to determine the optimal oxidation parameters to form a reasonably flat, defect-free, single crystal {\ensuremath{\gamma}}-Al2O3 film. We determined that the optimal oxidation condition was 850? for 1 hour in air that produced an 80 nm thick film with an RMS value of 10 nm. The model Pt/ {\ensuremath{\gamma}}-Al2O3 system was produced by e-beam evaporation of Pt nanoparticles onto the surface of the {\ensuremath{\gamma}}-Al2O3. We characterized the Pt/{\ensuremath{\gamma}}-Al2O3 by transmission electron microscopy techniques for morphological and electronic structure of the nanoparticles and interfaces, respectively. We provide two feasibility studies of obtaining benchmark parameters that could be used by theorists: (1) the interfacial energy through a Wulff-Kashiew analysis of the supported Pt nanoparticles? shapes and (2) information on the density of states at the interface using electron energy loss spectroscopy. During the course of this study, we also discovered aspects of NiAl oxidation kinetics in the intermediate temperature regime of 650-950? where only {\ensuremath{\gamma}}-Al2O3 forms, not the thermodynamically stable {\ensuremath{\alpha}}-Al2O3. For example, crystallinity, epitaxy, and surface roughness of the oxide depends on the oxidation temperature due to temperature-dependent strain and relative diffusion behaviors. } } @unpublished{pittir12076, month = {October}, title = {ULTRACOLD QUANTUM GASES}, author = {Zixu Zhang}, year = {2012}, keywords = {optical lattice, BCS-BEC crossover, many-body physics, ultracold atoms, strongly correlated system, quantum gas}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12076/}, abstract = {In this thesis, we discuss ultracold quantum gases both in continuum and optical lattices. For the continuum Fermi gases in BCS-BEC crossover, we present an effective field theory study on the recently discovered puzzling damping phenomena on the BCS side of the crossover. We find that in contrast to the previous proposed pair-breaking mechanism of damping, the damping process is due to the interaction between superfluid phonons and thermally excited fermionic quasi particles. Results from our effective field theory are compared quantitatively with experiments, showing a good agreement. For the ultracold fermionic atoms in optical lattices, we propose two novel quantum phases. Firstly, we show that a novel superconducting pairing occurs for spin-imbalanced Fermi gases with the spin up and down Fermi levels lying within the px- and s- orbital bands of a quasi-one-dimensional optical lattice. The pairs condense at a finite momentum equal to the sum of the two Fermi momenta of spin up and down fermions, and form a p-orbital condensate. The phase diagram shows that the p-orbital pair condensate occurs in a wide range of fillings. Secondly, we study instabilities of single-species fermionic atoms in the p-orbital bands in two-dimensional square optical lattices. From the nearly-perfect nesting Fermi surfaces, charge density wave and orbital density wave orderings with stripe or checkerboard patterns are found for attractive and repulsive interactions, respectively. The superconducting phase, usually expected of attractively interacting fermions, is strongly suppressed. We also use field theory to analyze the possible liquid crystal phases in our system. For bosons, we study ultracold bosonic atoms loaded in a one-dimensional optical lattice of two-fold p-orbital degeneracy at each site, and find an anti-ferro-orbital, a homogeneous px Mott insulator phase and two kinds of superfluid phases distinguished by the orbital ordering.} } @article{pittir17995, number = {3}, month = {January}, title = {NHC-catalyzed chemo- and regioselective hydrosilylation of carbonyl derivatives}, author = {Q Zhao and DP Curran and M Malacria and L Fensterbank and JP Goddard and E Lac{\^o}te}, year = {2012}, pages = {433 -- 437}, journal = {Synlett}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/17995/}, abstract = {The hydrosilylation of carbonyl derivatives has been explored by the activation of diphenylsilane in the presence of a catalytic amount of an N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC). Presumably, a hypervalent silicon intermediate featuring strong Lewis acid character allows dual activation of both the carbonyl moiety and the hydride at the silicon center. Reduction under mild conditions could be accomplished using this organocatalytic process. Some interesting selectivities have been encountered. {\copyright} Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart ? New York.} } @unpublished{pittir11501, month = {June}, title = {Steam Effects on Oxidation Behavior of Alumina-Scale Forming Nickel-Based Alloys and a Kinetics Analysis of Complex Scale Evolution during Isothermal Oxidation}, author = {Wei Zhao}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Steam Effect, Alumina Scale, Surface Instability, Critical Concentration, Transient Oxidation, Instantaneous Kinetics}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/11501/}, abstract = {The first part of this study investigated steam effects on the oxidation behavior of Al2O3-scale forming Ni-based alloys. This detrimental effect was assessed in the context of Giggins and Pettit?s oxidation map for the Ni-Cr-Al system, which was determined under dry oxidizing conditions. Of particular relevance to the design of high-temperature alloys and coatings is the location in the oxide map of the kinetically-dictated critical Al content (NAl*) in a given alloy to form a continuous Al2O3-scale. It was found that NAl* increases when the air contains 30\% steam. A rigorous quantitative analysis based on Maak?s modification of Wagner?s theory was carried out to determine the key parameter affecting an increase in NAl* under wet oxidizing conditions. By checking the sensitivity of NAl* with respect to each parameter in the theory, it was deduced that the only parameter which can give the necessarily large change in NAl* found in wet-air oxidation is the critical volume fraction of internal oxide, fv*, a parameter that is usually assumed to be a constant and independent of the reacting conditions. From experimental observation, it was found that the surface of NiO scale became unstable in wet oxidizing conditions. Unlike the dense and uniform surface formed scale in dry air, finger-like protrusions or a powder-like porous structure could form under wet conditions. The experimental conditions and possible mechanisms for this observed instability were assessed. In the second part of this study, a novel kinetics analysis method was established to quantify the kinetics of scale evolution based on analyzing the instantaneous growth rate constant ki and the time exponent ni determined from thermogravimetric (TG) data. A methodology is proposed to ascertain whether the oxidation kinetics has come to a steady state from a transient stage, and to accurately determine the growth rate constant. Both a fundamental analysis and an experimental validation of this methodology are presented. This kinetics analysis method was further extended to quantify the scale evolution during the initial oxidation stage. Specifically, a method to track the extent and kinetics of the metastable to stable Al2O3 phase transformation in thermally formed alumina scales was established. } } @article{pittir20848, volume = {21}, number = {6}, month = {September}, author = {B Zheng and CW Chen and G Li and SD Thompson and M Poddar and B P{\'e}ault and J Huard}, title = {Isolation of Myogenic Stem Cells from Cultures of Cryopreserved Human Skeletal Muscle}, journal = {Cell Transplantation}, pages = {1087 -- 1093}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/20848/}, abstract = {We demonstrate that subpopulations of adult human skeletal muscle-derived stem cells, myogenic endothelial cells (MECs), and perivascular stem cells (PSCs) can be simultaneously purified by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) from cryopreserved human primary skeletal muscle cell cultures (cryo-hPSMCs). For FACS isolation, we utilized a combination of cell lineage markers: the myogenic cell marker CD56, the endothelial cell marker UEA-1 receptor (UEA-1R), and the perivascular cell marker CD146. MECs expressing all three cell lineage markers (CD56+UEA-1R+CD146+/CD45+) and PSCs expressing only CD146 (CD146+/CD45+CD56+UEA-1R+) were isolated by FACS. To evaluate their myogenic capacities, the sorted cells, with and without expansion in culture, were transplanted into the cardiotoxin-injured skeletal muscles of immunodeficient mice. The purified MECs exhibited the highest regenerative capacity in the injured mouse muscles among all cell fractions tested, while PSCs remained superior to myoblasts and the unpurified primary skeletal muscle cells. Our findings show that both MECs and PSCs retain their high myogenic potentials after in vitro expansion, cryopreservation, and FACS sorting. The current study demonstrates that myogenic stem cells are prospectively isolatable from long-term cryopreserved primary skeletal muscle cell cultures. We emphasize the potential application of this new approach to extract therapeutic stem cells from human muscle cells cryogenically banked for clinical purposes. {\copyright} 2012 Cognizant Comm. Corp.} } @unpublished{pittir10926, month = {June}, title = {RF Pulse Design for Parallel Transmission in Ultra High Field Magnetic Resonance Imaging}, author = {Hai Zheng}, year = {2012}, keywords = {transmit SENSE;multidimensional pulse;high field;eddy current;susceptibility artifacts;functional MRI;signal recovery;perturbation analysis;T2* weighted;B1 mapping}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10926/}, abstract = {Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) plays an important role in visualizing the structure and function of the human body. In recent years, ultra high magnetic field (UHF) MRI has emerged as an attractive means to achieve significant improvements in both signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast. However, in vivo imaging at UHF is hampered by the presence of severe B1 and B0 inhomogeneities. B1 inhomogeneity leads to spatial non-uniformity excitation in MR images. B0 inhomogeneity, on the other hand, produces blurring, distortions and signal loss at tissue/air interfaces. Both of them greatly limit the applications of UHF MRI. Thus mitigating B1 and B0 inhomogeneities is central in making UHF MRI practical for clinical use. Tailored RF pulse design has been demonstrated as a feasible means to mitigate the effects of B1 and B0 inhomogeneities. However, the primary limitation of such tailored pulses is that the pulse duration is too long for practical clinical applications. With the introduction of parallel transmission technology, one can shorten the pulse duration without sacrificing excitation performance. Prior reports in parallel transmission were formulated using linear, small-tip-angle approximation algorithms, which are violated in the regime of nonlinear large-tip-angle excitation. The overall goal of this dissertation is to develop effective and fast algorithms for parallel transmission UHF RF pulses design. The key contributions of this work include 1) a novel large-tip-angle RF pulse design method to achieve significant improvements compared with previous algorithms; 2) implementing a model-based eddy current correction method to compensate eddy current field induced on RF shield for parallel transmission and leading to improved excitation and time efficiency; 3) developing new RF pulse design strategy to restore the lost signal over the whole brain and increase BOLD contrast to brain activation in T2*-weighted fMRI at UHF. For testing and validation, these algorithms were implement on a Siemens 7T MRI scanner equipped with a parallel transmission system and their capabilities for ultra high field MRI demonstrated, first by phantom experiments and later by in vivo human imaging studies. The contributions presented here will be of importance to bring parallel transmission technology to clinical applications in UHF MRI.} } @inproceedings{pittir30136, month = {June}, author = {Hai Zheng and Tiejun Zhao and Kathryn Edelman and Yongxian Qian and Tamer S Ibrahim and Howard Aizenstein and Fernando E Boada}, note = {Competing Interests: No competing interests were disclosed}, booktitle = {18th Annual Meeting of the Organization for Human Brain Mapping (OHBM) 2012}, title = {Improved response to face recognition in UHF fMRI through parallel transmission RF pulse design}, publisher = {F1000 Research Ltd.}, journal = {F1000 Research}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/30136/}, abstract = {The amygdala plays an important role in normal memory and attention, and is also identified as a key structure to understand disorders with emotions such as depression, autism, and schizophrenia. Ultra high magnetic field (UHF) MRI has been used to depict anatomical details in the brain that are not attainable at lower field strengths. Unfortunately, UHF fMRI is problematic due to large magnetic susceptibiity-induced (SI) artifacts. This SI artifact manifests signal loss near important functional regions, such as the amygdala and limits the reliability of UHF fMRI studies in this region due to the coupling between the artifact level and the subject's underlying anatomy. People have proposed to restore the SI signal loss, but Radio frequency (RF) pulse durations are impractically long. In this study, we demonstrate a whole-brain, practical and robust RF pulse design to reliably recover the fMRI signal from the amygdala at ultra high field. We have successfully demonstrated that PTX 3DTRF design can be used for improving the fMRI signal response in amygdala. This is the first time that whole-brain, tailored RF methodology in conjunction with PTX RF has been demonstrated for this purpose. Overall, the proposed methodology was found to be robust across volunteers, especially when the 5-spoke trajectory was used.} } @unpublished{pittir12495, month = {August}, title = {Statistical Methods and Analysis for Human Genetic Copy Number Variation and Homozygosity Mapping}, author = {Xiaojing Zheng}, year = {2012}, keywords = {statistical methods and analysis, copy number variation, homozygosity mapping}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12495/}, abstract = {Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) arrays are used primarily for genetic association studies, with data being analyzed in most cases one SNP at a time. Several other applications of SNP arrays, however, involve integration of data over multiple markers for a single individual. Two such applications of SNP arrays are studies of copy number variants (CNVs) and regions of homozygosity or identity by descent. Hidden Markov models are a common approach to both of these problems, but other methods have been used as well. In this dissertation I address several methodological issues related to these two types of analysis, and also apply the methods to several datasets. The purpose of my studies in CNVs is to better detect and analyze CNVs. A major concern for all copy number variation (CNV) calling algorithms is their reliability and repeatability. I use family data as a verification standard to evaluate CNV calling strategies and methods. I make recommendations for how CNV calls can be used in genome-wide association studies. I then apply them to analyze CNVs in studies of psychiatric disorders and birth outcomes. Results from these studies have the potential for great public health significance, because they can lead to better understanding of the genetic etiology and eventually to better markers for disease screening and diagnosis. Homozygosity mapping is a powerful method to map genes for rare recessive disorders. However, current methods are not ideal, especially when using high density SNP array data from consanguineous families. This study develops improved methods for homozygosity mapping using dense SNP data, and thus will improve the ability of geneticists to find genetic causes of rare recessive diseases. Many of these rare disorders are life-threatening; identification of the disease genes may help with early diagnosis and treatment.} } @inproceedings{pittir30134, month = {April}, author = {Feihu Zhou and Matthew E Cove and Zhiyong Y Peng and Jeffrey Bishop and Kia Singbartl and John A Kellum}, note = {Funding: National Institutes of Health (NIH), HL07820 Competing Interests: No competing interests were disclosed}, booktitle = {32nd International Symposium on Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine (ISICEM) 2012}, title = {Normal saline resuscitation worsens lactic acidosis in experimental sepsis}, publisher = {F1000 Research Ltd.}, journal = {F1000 Research}, year = {2012}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/30134/}, abstract = {It is well established that infusing large amounts of normal saline causes hyperchloremic acidosis, yet the clinical relevance of this is unknown. We found that infusion of normal saline, compared with a balanced crystalloid, worsens lactic acidosis in experimental sepsis.} } @article{pittir16047, volume = {7}, number = {10}, month = {October}, title = {Single Liver Lobe Repopulation with Wildtype Hepatocytes Using Regional Hepatic Irradiation Cures Jaundice in Gunn Rats}, author = {H Zhou and X Dong and R Kabarriti and Y Chen and Y Avsar and X Wang and J Ding and L Liu and IJ Fox and J Roy-Chowdhury and N Roy-Chowdhury and C Guha}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16047/}, abstract = {Background and Aims: Preparative hepatic irradiation (HIR), together with mitotic stimulation of hepatocytes, permits extensive hepatic repopulation by transplanted hepatocytes in rats and mice. However, whole liver HIR is associated with radiation-induced liver disease (RILD), which limits its potential therapeutic application. In clinical experience, restricting HIR to a fraction of the liver reduces the susceptibility to RILD. Here we test the hypothesis that repopulation of selected liver lobes by regional HIR should be sufficient to correct some inherited metabolic disorders. Methods: Hepatocytes (107) isolated from wildtype F344 rats or Wistar-RHA rats were engrafted into the livers of congeneic dipeptidylpeptidase IV deficient (DPPIV-) rats or uridinediphosphoglucuronateglucuronosyltransferase-1A1-deficient jaundiced Gunn rats respectively by intrasplenic injection 24 hr after HIR (50 Gy) targeted to the median lobe, or median plus left liver lobes. An adenovector expressing hepatocyte growth factor (1011 particles) was injected intravenously 24 hr after transplantation. Results: Three months after hepatocyte transplantation in DPPIV- rats, 30-60\% of the recipient hepatocytes were replaced by donor cells in the irradiated lobe, but not in the nonirradiated lobes. In Gunn rats receiving median lobe HIR, serum bilirubin declined from pretreatment levels of 5.17{$\pm$}0.78 mg/dl to 0.96{$\pm$}0.30 mg/dl in 8 weeks and remained at this level throughout the 16 week observation period. A similar effect was observed in the group, receiving median plus left lobe irradiation. Conclusions: As little as 20\% repopulation of 30\% of the liver volume was sufficient to correct hyperbilirubinemia in Gunn rats, highlighting the potential of regiospecific HIR in hepatocyte transplantation-based therapy of inherited metabolic liver diseases. {\copyright} 2012 Zhou et al.} } @unpublished{pittir10796, month = {January}, title = {SCHOOL-UNIVERSITY PARTNERSHIPS IN TEACHING THE MANDARIN CHINESE LANGUAGE: THE CONFUCIUS INSTITUTE EXPERIENCE}, author = {Muriel M. Zhou}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Confucius Institute, international education, international educational partnerships, loosely coupled systems, Mandarin Chinese eduction, organization theory, partnership theory, school-university partnerships, secondary education}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10796/}, abstract = {While the study of major foreign languages faded in thousands of U.S. schools in the last decade, many schools rushed to offer Mandarin Chinese (Dillon, 2010). Despite financial crises and drastic budget cuts since late 2007, the number of K-12 schools offering Mandarin Chinese has been growing. However, no in-depth research has been conducted to capture and study this historical development. We knew very little about how U.S. schools developed Mandarin Chinese instruction through a school-university partnership. This qualitative research investigated how six U.S. secondary schools (five public and one private) developed Mandarin Chinese programs through partnership with the Confucius Institute at University X, and explored how the partnership helped those schools achieve their educational goals and desired outcomes. Two theoretical lenses, i.e. the partnership theory (e.g. Briody \& Trotter II, 2008; Clark, 1988; Edwards et al., 2009; Goodlad, 1988; Kloth \& Applegate, 2004) and the ?loosely coupled system? theory (e.g. Murphy \& Hallinger, 1984; Orton \& Weick, 1990; Weick, 1976, 1982 \& 2001), were employed in this study to explore how the schools and the Confucius Institute partnered as ?loosely coupled systems? to achieve their common goal, when the common goal was defined as promoting Chinese language and culture in U.S. schools. This research was designed to focus on the schools? perspective only. Qualitative data were collected from documentation and open-ended interviews with 22 participants (N = 22), including nine school/school district administrators, five regular school teachers and eight Chinese guest teachers. The study found that the partnership was complimentary and cooperative (not collaborative) in nature and the schools worked with the Confucius Institute on a need-response basis. Working in the partnership as ?loosely coupled systems?, the schools enjoyed autonomy and flexibility, but they were challenged with much uncertainty and a lack of consistency and communication on a regular basis. Moreover, financial crises and sharp budget cuts threatened the future of those schools? Chinese language programs and the partnership. Despite these challenges, those schools confirmed that they had gained some valuable experiences with the development of Mandarin Chinese education and the partnership. Recommendations for further research have been provided.} } @unpublished{pittir10870, month = {June}, title = {Towards Successful Application of Phase Change Memories: Addressing Challenges from Write Operations}, author = {Ping Zhou}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Phase Change Memory, memory scheduling, power budgeting}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10870/}, abstract = {The emerging Phase Change Memory (PCM) technology is drawing increasing attention due to its advantages in non-volatility, byte-addressability and scalability. It is regarded as a promising candidate for future main memory. However, PCM's write operation has some limitations that pose challenges to its application in memory. The disadvantages include long write latency, high write power and limited write endurance. In this thesis, I present my effort towards successful application of PCM memory. My research consists of several optimizing techniques at both the circuit and architecture level. First, at the circuit level, I propose Differential Write to remove unnecessary bit changes in PCM writes. This is not only beneficial to endurance but also to the energy and latency of writes. Second, I propose two memory scheduling enhancements (AWP and RAWP) for a non-blocking bank design. My memory scheduling enhancements can exploit intra-bank parallelism provided by non-blocking bank design, and achieve significant throughput improvement. Third, I propose Bit Level Power Budgeting (BPB), a fine-grained power budgeting technique that leverages the information from Differential Write to achieve even higher memory throughput under the same power budget. Fourth, I propose techniques to improve the QoS tuning ability of high-priority applications when running on PCM memory. In summary, the techniques I propose effectively address the challenges of PCM's write operations. In addition, I present the experimental infrastructure in this work and my visions of potential future research topics, which could be helpful to other researchers in the area.} } @article{pittir14019, volume = {7}, number = {2}, month = {February}, title = {W::Neo: A novel dual-selection marker for high efficiency gene targeting in Drosophila}, author = {W Zhou and J Huang and AM Watson and Y Hong}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14019/}, abstract = {We have recently developed a so-called genomic engineering approach that allows for directed, efficient and versatile modifications of Drosophila genome by combining the homologous recombination (HR)-based gene targeting with site-specific DNA integration. In genomic engineering and several similar approaches, a "founder" knock-out line must be generated first through HR-based gene targeting, which can still be a potentially time and resource intensive process. To significantly improve the efficiency and success rate of HR-based gene targeting in Drosophila, we have generated a new dual-selection marker termed W::Neo, which is a direct fusion between proteins of eye color marker White (W) and neomycin resistance (Neo). In HR-based gene targeting experiments, mutants carrying W::Neo as the selection marker can be enriched as much as fifty times by taking advantage of the antibiotic selection in Drosophila larvae. We have successfully carried out three independent gene targeting experiments using the W::Neo to generate genomic engineering founder knock-out lines in Drosophila. {\copyright} 2012 Zhou et al.} } @unpublished{pittir10569, month = {February}, title = {DYNAMIC THERMAL MANAGEMENT FOR MICROPROCESSORS THROUGH TASK SCHEDULING}, author = {Xiuyi Zhou}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Microprocessor, Thermal management, Task scheduling algorithms, 3D die stacking, Chip Multiprocessor, Process variation}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10569/}, abstract = {With continuous IC(Integrated Circuit) technology size scaling, more and more transistors are integrated in a tiny area of the processor. Microprocessors experience unprecedented high power and high temperatures on chip, which can easily violate the thermal constraint. High temperature on the chip, if not controlled, can damage or even burn the chip. There are also emerging technologies which can exacerbate the thermal condition on modern processors. For example, 3D stacking is an IC technology that stacks several die layers together, in order to shorten the communication path between the dies to improve the chip performance. This technology unfortunately increases the power density per unit volumn, and the heat from each layer needs to dissipate vertically through the same heat sink. Another example is chip multi-processor. A chip multi-processor(CMP) integrates two or more independent actual processors (called ?cores?), onto a single integrated circuit die. As IC technology nodes continually scale down to 45nm and below, there is significant within-die process variation(PV) in the current and near-future CMPs. Process variation makes the cores in the chip differ in their maximum operable frequency, and the amount of leakage power they consume. This can result in the immense spatial variation of the temperatures of the cores on the same chip, which means the temperatures of some cores can be much higher than other cores. One of the most commonly used methods to constrain a CPU from overheating is hardware dynamic thermal management(HW DTM), due to the high cost and inefficiency of current mechanical cooling techniques. Dynamic voltage/frequency scaling(DVFS) is such a broad-spectrum dynamic thermal management technique that can be applied to all types of processors, so we adopt DVFS as the HW DTM method in this thesis to simplify problem discussion. DVFS lowers the CPU power consumption by reducing CPU frequency or voltage when temperature overshoots, which constrains the temperature at the price of performance loss, in terms of reduced CPU throughput, or longer execution time of the programs. This thesis mainly addresses this problem, with the goal of eliminating unnecessary hardware-level DVFS and improving chip performance. The methodology of the experiments in this thesis are based on the accurate estimation of power and temperature on the processor. The CPU power usage of different benchmarks are estimated by reading the performance counters on a real P4 chip, and measuring the activities of different CPU functional units. The jobs are then categorized into powerintensive(hot) ones and power non-intensive(cool) ones. Many combinations of the jobs with mixed power(thermal) characteristics are used to evaluate the effectiveness of the algorithms we propose. When the experiments are conducted on a single-core processor, a compact dynamic thermal model embedded in Linux kernel is used to calculate the CPU temperature. When the experiments are conducted on the CMP with 3D stacked dies, or the CMP affected by significant process variation, a thermal simulation tool well recognized in academia is used. The contribution of the thesis is that it proposes new software-level task scheduling algorithms to avoid unnecessary hardware-level DVFS. New task scheduling algorithms are proposed not only for the single-core processor, but aslo for the CMP with 3D stacked dies, and the CMP under process variation. Compared with the state-of-the-art algorithms proposed by other researchers, the new algorithms we propose all show significant performance improvement. To improve the performance of the single-core processors, which is harmed by the thermal overshoots and the HW DTMs, we propose a heuristic algorithm named ThreshHot, which judiciously schedules hot jobs before cool jobs, to make the future temperature lower. Furthermore, it always makes the temperature stay as close to the threshold as possible while not overshooting. In the CMPs with 3D stacked dies, three heuristics are proposed and combined as one algorithm. First, the vertically stacked cores are treated as a core stack. The power of jobs is balanced among the core stacks instead of the individual cores. Second, the hot jobs are moved close to the heat sink to expedite heat dissipation. Third, when the thermal emergencies happen, the most power-intensive job in a core stack is penalized in order to lower the temperature quickly. When CMPs are under significant process variation, each core on the CMP has distinct maximum frequency and leakage power. Maximizing the overall CPU throughput on all the cores is in conflict with satisfying on-chip thermal constraints imposed on each core. A maximum bipartite matching algorithm is used to solve this dilemma, to exploit the maximum performance of the chip.} } @article{pittir16059, volume = {7}, number = {10}, month = {October}, title = {Vitamin C Prevents Hypogonadal Bone Loss}, author = {LL Zhu and J Cao and M Sun and T Yuen and R Zhou and J Li and Y Peng and SS Moonga and L Guo and JI Mechanick and J Iqbal and L Peng and HC Blair and Z Bian and M Zaidi}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/16059/}, abstract = {Epidemiologic studies correlate low vitamin C intake with bone loss. The genetic deletion of enzymes involved in de novo vitamin C synthesis in mice, likewise, causes severe osteoporosis. However, very few studies have evaluated a protective role of this dietary supplement on the skeleton. Here, we show that the ingestion of vitamin C prevents the low-turnover bone loss following ovariectomy in mice. We show that this prevention in areal bone mineral density and micro-CT parameters results from the stimulation of bone formation, demonstrable in vivo by histomorphometry, bone marker measurements, and quantitative PCR. Notably, the reductions in the bone formation rate, plasma osteocalcin levels, and ex vivo osteoblast gene expression 8 weeks post-ovariectomy are all returned to levels of sham-operated controls. The study establishes vitamin C as a skeletal anabolic agent. {\copyright} 2012 Zhu et al.} } @article{pittir29838, volume = {8}, month = {September}, title = {Transforming growth factor beta induces sensory neuronal hyperexcitability, and contributes to pancreatic pain and hyperalgesia in rats with chronic pancreatitis}, author = {Y Zhu and T Colak and M Shenoy and L Liu and K Mehta and R Pai and B Zou and XS Xie and PJ Pasricha}, year = {2012}, journal = {Molecular Pain}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/29838/}, abstract = {Background: Transforming growth factor beta (TGF{\ensuremath{\beta}}) is upregulated in chronic inflammation, where it plays a key role in wound healing and promoting fibrosis. However, little is known about the peripheral effects of TGF{\ensuremath{\beta}} on nociception.Methods: We tested the in vitro effects of TGF{\ensuremath{\beta}}1 on the excitability of dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons and the function of potassium (K) channels. We also studied the effects of TGF{\ensuremath{\beta}}1 infusion on pain responses to noxious electrical stimulation in healthy rats as well as the effects of neutralization of TGF{\ensuremath{\beta}}1 on evoked pain behaviors in a rat model of chronic pancreatitis.Results: Exposure to TGF{\ensuremath{\beta}}1 in vitro increased sensory neuronal excitability, decreased voltage-gated A-type K+ currents (IA) and downregulated expression of the Kv1.4 (KCNA4) gene. Further TGF{\ensuremath{\beta}}1 infusion into the na{\"i}ve rat pancreas in vivo induces hyperalgesia and conversely, neutralization of TGF{\ensuremath{\beta}}1 attenuates hyperalgesia only in rats with experimental chronic pancreatitis. Paradoxically, TGF{\ensuremath{\beta}}1 neutralization in na{\"i}ve rats results in pancreatic hyperalgesia.Conclusions: TGF{\ensuremath{\beta}}1 is an important and complex modulator of sensory neuronal function in chronic inflammation, providing a link between fibrosis and nociception and is a potentially novel target for the treatment of persistent pain associated with chronic pancreatitis. {\copyright} 2012 Zhu et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.} } @article{pittir12703, volume = {7}, number = {6}, month = {June}, title = {Interaction of caveolin-1 with Ku70 inhibits Bax-mediated apoptosis}, author = {H Zou and D Volonte and F Galbiati}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12703/}, abstract = {Caveolin-1, the structural protein component of caveolae, acts as a scaffolding protein that functionally regulates signaling molecules. We show that knockdown of caveolin-1 protein expression enhances chemotherapeutic drug-induced apoptosis and inhibits long-term survival of colon cancer cells. In vitro studies demonstrate that caveolin-1 is a novel Ku70-binding protein, as shown by the binding of the scaffolding domain of caveolin-1 (amino acids 82-101) to the caveolin-binding domain (CBD) of Ku70 (amino acids 471-478). Cell culture data show that caveolin-1 binds Ku70 after treatment with chemotherapeutic drugs. Mechanistically, we found that binding of caveolin-1 to Ku70 inhibits the chemotherapeutic drug-induced release of Bax from Ku70, activation of Bax, translocation of Bax to mitochondria and apoptosis. Potentiation of apoptosis by knockdown of caveolin-1 protein expression is greatly reduced in the absence of Bax expression. Finally, we found that overexpression of wild type Ku70, but not a mutant form of Ku70 that cannot bind to caveolin-1 (Ku70 {\ensuremath{\Phi}}{$\rightarrow$}A), limits the chemotherapeutic drug-induced Ku70/Bax dissociation and apoptosis. Thus, caveolin-1 acts as an anti-apoptotic protein in colon cancer cells by binding to Ku70 and inhibiting Bax-dependent cell death. {\copyright} 2012 Zou et al.} } @unpublished{pittir10634, month = {February}, title = {FOOD DENSITY ESTIMATION USING FUZZY INFERENCE}, author = {li chengliu}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Fuzzy logic, Food density}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/10634/}, abstract = {This work presents a new fuzzy logic approach to food density estimation in supporting research in diet and nutrition. It has been a historical problem to measure people?s daily food intake in real life. Recent advances in electronic devices have provided novel tools for recording volumetric information of food, while the current food databases often list nutrients and calories in terms of gram weights instead of volumes. Thus, a density value, which connects the volume to weight, is required to use the existing databases when the volumetric information is unavailable. In this work, we approach the density estimation problem using fuzzy inference which ?guesses? the food density by collecting and organizing relevant human knowledge about a food. French fries are taken as an example of this new approach. A fuzzy Inference System (FIS) is constructed to estimate the bulk density of French fries under different cooking conditions. Our experimental results show that our FIS system built upon human knowledge about the frying time and temperature can accurately estimate the density of French fries under controlled conditions. } } @article{pittir14156, volume = {7}, number = {3}, month = {March}, title = {Molecular epidemiology of neisseria meningitidis serogroup B in Brazil}, author = {I de Filippis and APS de Lemos and JB Hostetler and K Wollenberg and CT Sacchi and LH Harrison and MC Bash and DR Prevots}, year = {2012}, journal = {PLoS ONE}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/14156/}, abstract = {Background: Neisseria meningitidis serogroup B has been predominant in Brazil, but no broadly effective vaccine is available to prevent endemic meningococcal disease. To understand genetic diversity among serogroup B strains in Brazil, we selected a nationally representative sample of clinical disease isolates from 2004, and a temporally representative sample for the state of S{\~a}o Paulo (1988-2006) for study (n = 372). Methods: We performed multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) and sequence analysis of five outer membrane protein (OMP) genes, including novel vaccine targets fHbp and nadA. Results: In 2004, strain B:4:P1.15,19 clonal complex ST-32/ET-5 (cc32) predominated throughout Brazil; regional variation in MLST sequence type (ST), fetA, and porB was significant but diversity was limited for nadA and fHbp. Between 1988 and 1996, the S{\~a}o Paulo isolates shifted from clonal complex ST-41/44/Lineage 3 (cc41/44) to cc32. OMP variation was associated with but not predicted by cc or ST. Overall, fHbp variant 1/subfamily B was present in 80\% of isolates and showed little diversity. The majority of nadA were similar to reference allele 1. Conclusions: A predominant serogroup B lineage has circulated in Brazil for over a decade with significant regional and temporal diversity in ST, fetA, and porB, but not in nadA and fHbp.} } @unpublished{pittir12053, month = {May}, title = {The Nature of Volunteer Chinese Teaching Launched by the Hanban}, author = {haowen zhang}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Chinese teaching}, url = {http://d-scholarship-dev.library.pitt.edu/12053/}, abstract = {With the increasing demand of Chinese language learning, the Hanban has been dispatching volunteer Chinese teachers worldwide for several years. Many studies on volunteer Chinese teaching have focused on the Hanban?s soft power projection, higher education cooperation, and policies. However, not much work has been done on the nature of official launched volunteer Chinese teaching via examining its teaching practices. Mainly referring to Phillipson?s theory of linguistic imperialism, my thesis aims to fill in the gap in the literature through exploring whether volunteer Chinese teaching launched by the Hanban in three Southeast Asian countries has features of linguistic imperialism. I conducted a qualitative case study on teaching practices of volunteer teachers in the Philippines, Thailand and Indonesia for the purpose of having a detailed understanding of the volunteer Chinese teaching situations. Combining with findings from interviews of volunteer Chinese teachers, the paper also contains a content analysis on materials from the Hanban website and online newspapers. My analysis indicates that volunteer Chinese teaching in the three Southeast Asian countries contains some features of linguistic imperialism, but cannot be completely defined as linguistic imperialism. The result on the nature of volunteer Chinese teaching clarifies some people?s concern about the promotion of Chinese language by China. Also, Chinese language teachers and administrators can have a better idea of what Chinese teaching should be like and how it could be improved.} }