cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Safety, effectiveness, and practicality of endovascular therapy within the first 3 hours of acute ischemic stroke onset.

Objective This study assesses the safety, effectiveness, and practicality of endovascular therapy for ischemic stroke within the first 3 hours of symptom onset. Methods A retrospective chart review (January 2000-July 2008) was performed of 94 consecutive patients who had endovascular therapy within 3 hours after acute ischemic stroke onset. Endovascular therapy was administered in patients in whom intravenous (IV) thrombolysis failed or was contraindicated. Outcome measures analyzed were recanalization rate, intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) rate, procedural complications, modified Rankin Scale score, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score, and mortality rate. Results The study included 41 male and 53 female patients with a mean age of 68 years (age range, 13-98 years). The mean NIHSS score at the time of admission was 14.7. Eight-three patients had anterior circulation ischemic events, and 11 had posterior circulation ischemic events. The cause was determined to be arterioembolic in 21 patients (22%), cardioembolic in 45 (48%), arterial dissection in 2, left-to-right cardiac shunt in 1, and unknown in 25 (27%). Endovascular interventions included intra-arterial (IA) pharmacological thrombolysis (n = 44), mechanical thrombolysis (Merci Retrieval System, intracranial or extracranial stent, microwire) (n = 79), and intracranial or extracranial angioplasty (n = 32) in various combinations. The mean time from stroke onset to angiogram was 72 minutes. Thirteen patients received a half dose (n = 8) or full dose (n = 5) of IV thrombolysis (tissue plasminogen activator [tPA]) in conjunction with endovascular therapy. Twenty-two patients received IA or IV adjunctive glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitor (eptifibatide). Partial-to-complete recanalization (Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction scale score of 2 or 3) was achieved in 62 of 89 of patients (70%) presenting with significant occlusion (Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction scale score of 0 or 1). Postprocedure symptomatic ICH occurred in 5 patients (5.3%), which was purely subarachnoid hemorrhage in 3 patients. Of these, 2 received IA tPA in conjunction with Merci Retrieval System passes; the others each received IA tPA, mechanical thrombectomy (guidewire), or extracranial angioplasty. The total mortality rate including procedural mortality, progression of disease, and other comorbidities was 26.6%. Sixteen patients (17%) were discharged home, 49 (52%) to rehabilitation, and 4 (4%) to long-term care facilities. Overall, 36.7% had a modified Rankin Scale score of 2 or less at discharge. The mean NIHSS score at discharge was 6.5, representing an overall 8-point improvement on the NIHSS. Conclusion Endovascular therapy within the first 3 hours of stroke symptom onset in patients in whom IV tPA therapy is contraindicated or fails is safe, effective, and practical. The risk of symptomatic ICH is low and should be viewed relative to the poor prognosis in this group of patients.
Safety-critical Partitioned Software Architecture: A Partitioned Software Architecture for Robotic Spacecraft

The ight software on virtually every mission currently managed by JPL has several major aws that make it vulnerable to potentially fatal software defects. Many of these problems can be addressed by recently developed partitioned operating systems (OS). JPL has avoided adopting a partitioned operating system on its ight missions, primarily because doing so would require signi cant changes in ight software design, and the risks associated with changes of that magnitude cannot be accepted by an active ight project. The choice of a partitioned OS can have a dramatic e ect on the overall system and software architecture, allowing for realization of bene ts far beyond the concerns typically associated with the choice of OS. Speci cally, we believe that a partitioned operating system, when coupled with an appropriate architecture, can provide a strong infrastructure for developing systems for which reusability, modi ability, testability, and reliability are essential qualities. By adopting a partitioned OS, projects can gain bene ts throughout the entire development lifecycle, from requirements and design, all the way to implementation, testing, and operations.
Expert System Stalemate: A Case of Project Champion Departure

Research on project champions has focused on the characteristics of this individual and how to provide encouragement and support. An understanding of the role of project champion is shortsighted, however, without a realization of what can happen to an expert system ES project, and what can be done, should this individual depart. This paper discusses the ES project champion by examining the experiences of Ciba-Geigy Corporation with an ES project, impeded by the departure of the project champion. The OpBright Expert System, developed to support the identification of appropriate optical brightener products by sales representatives, was intended to provide a competitive advantage through superior customer service. With the promotion and transfer of the vital force committed to the project's success, the ES encountered a stalemate. The difficulties in maintaining momentum for the ES without a project champion are discussed. Finally, suggestions are presented to guide organizations away from the same fate.
Noninvasive estimation of bound and mobile platinum compounds in the kidney using a radiopharmacokinetic model

Nephrotoxicity remains a major limitation in the use of cisplatin [cis-diamminedichloroplatinum(ll)]. Although several strategies are in use to limit this serious side effect, none is fully satisfactory. Classical pharmacokinetic studies of cisplatin have been based on blood and urine samples. As nephrotoxicity plays a significant role in the design of the therapeutic strategy, the kidneys should be considered as a separate state in any model formulated for ultimate control purposes. Previous studies of organ pharmacokinetics have relied on population measurements. The authors have developed an organ compartmental model from individual animal data obtained noninvasively. The eight-compartment model used to represent the distribution of cisplatin considers free and bound platinum in plasma, platinum in the erythrocytes, mobile and bound platinum in the kidneys, mobile and bound platinum in the tissues, and platinum in the urine. Data were collected from experiments with anesthetized female rats, after intravenous administration of [195mPt]cisplatin. Both arterial and bladder samples, and multiple images obtained with an Anger camera interfaced to a microcomputer were used. The model was estimated from individual data obtained after injection of a bolus of cisplatin (six animals). The model was validated by using it to predict data obtained from forcing the system with a different input function, a 0.5-h intravenous infusion (three animals). The results of this work show that it is possible to noninvasively study drug kinetics in organs that are not readily accessible to direct measurements in an individual, rather than relying on invasive measurements performed on a population. This study was documented by analyzing the distribution of cisplatin as an eight-compartment model that included the kidneys as two separate states (mobile and bound). This study also illustrates the ability of the radiopharmacokinetic technique in noninvasively monitoring the biotransformation of a drug at a given organ site.
Thermobarometric constraints on the thermal history of the Main Central Thrust Zone and Tibetan Slab, eastern Nepal Himalaya

The Main Central Thrust (MCT) south of Mt Everest in eastern Nepal is a 3 to 5km thick shear zone separating chlorite-bearing schist in the lower plate from sillimanite-bearing migmatitic gneiss in the overlying Tibetan Slab. The metamorphic grade increases through the MCT zone toward structurally higher levels. Previous workers have suggested that either post- or synmetamorphic thrust movement has caused this inversion of metamorphic isograds. In an effort to quantify the increase in grade and to constrain proposed structural relations between metamorphism and slip on the fault, four well-calibrated thermobarometers were applied to pelitic samples collected along two cross-strike transects through the MCT zone and Tibetan Slab. Results show an increase in apparent temperature up-section in the MCT zone from 778 K to 990 K and a decrease in temperature to ∼850 K in the lower Tibetan Slab, which is consistent with synmetamorphic thrust movement. A trend in calculated pressures across this section is less well-defined but, on average, decreases up-section with a gradient of ∼28MPa/km, resembling a lithostatic gradient. Pressure-temperature paths for zoned garnets from samples within the MCT zone, modelled using the Gibbs' Method, show a significant decrease in temperature and a slight decrease in pressure from core to rim, which might be expected for upper plate rocks during synmetamorphic thrust movement. Samples from the uppermost Tibetan Slab yield higher temperatures and pressures than those from the lower Tibetan Slab, which may be evidence for later‘resetting’ of thermobarometers by intrusion of the large amounts of leucogranite at that structural level.
Vitamin C supplement use and bone mineral density in postmenopausal women.

Vitamin C is known to stimulate procollagen, enhance collagen synthesis, and stimulate alkaline phosphatase activity, a marker for osteoblast formation. Studies of dietary vitamin C intake and the relation with bone mineral density (BMD) have been conflicting, probably because of the well-known limitations of dietary nutrient assessment questionnaires. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the independent relation of daily vitamin C supplement use with BMD in a population-based sample of postmenopausal women. Subjects were 994 women from a community-based cohort of whom 277 women were regular vitamin C supplement users. Vitamin C supplement use was validated. Daily vitamin C supplement intake ranged from 100 to 5000 mg; the mean daily dose was 745 mg. Average duration of use was 12.4 years; 85% had taken vitamin C supplements for more than 3 years. BMD levels were measured at the ultradistal and midshaft radii, hip, and lumbar spine. After adjusting for age, body mass index (BMI), and total calcium intake, vitamin C users had BMD levels approximately 3% higher at the midshaft radius, femoral neck, and total hip (p < 0.05). In a fully adjusted model, significant differences remained at the femoral neck (p < 0.02) and marginal significance was observed at the total hip (p < 0.06). Women taking both estrogen and vitamin C had significantly higher BMD levels at all sites. Among current estrogen users, those also taking vitamin C had higher BMD levels at all sites, with marginal significance achieved at the ultradistal radius (p < 0.07), femoral neck (p < 0.07), and total hip (p < 0.09). Women who took vitamin C plus calcium and estrogen had the highest BMD at the femoral neck (p = 0.001), total hip (p = 0.05), ultradistal radius (p = 0.02), and lumbar spine. Vitamin C supplement use appears to have a beneficial effect on levels of BMD, especially among postmenopausal women using concurrent estrogen therapy and calcium supplements.
Production of chondroitin sulfate in tissue culture of cartilage.

Abstract Production of chondroitin sulfate in vitro (a mixture of A and C) by cells growing from explants of beef embryo cartilage has been demonstrated by chemical isolation. In primary cultures of cartilage, fibroblasts retain to a certain extent their physiological differentiation.
Vortex dynamics of the full time-dependent Ginzburg-Landau equations

In the Ginzburg-Landau model for superconductivity a large Ginzburg-Landau parameter κ corresponds to the formation of tight, stable vortices. These vortices are located exactly where an applied magnetic field pierces the superconducting bulk, and each vortex induces a quantized supercurrent about the vortex. The energy of large-κ solutions blows up near each vortex which brings about difficulties in analysis. Rigorous asymptotic static theory has previously established the existence of a finite number of the vortices, and these vortices are located precisely at the critical points of the renormalized energy (the free energy less the vortex self-induction energy). A rigorous study of the full time-dependent Ginzburg-Landau equations under the classical Lorentz gauge is done under the asymptotic limit κ ∞. Under slow times the vortices remain pinned to their initial configuration. Under a fast time of order κ the vortices move according to a steepest descent of the renormalized energy. © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Reverse mathematics: the playground of logic

This paper is essentially the author's Godel Lecture at the ASL Logic Colloquium '09 in Sofia extended and supplemented by material from some other papers. After a brief description of traditional reverse mathematics, a computational approach to is presented. There are then discussions of some interactions between reverse mathematics and the major branches of mathematical logic in terms of the techniques they supply as well as theorems for analysis. The emphasis here is on ones that lie outside the usual main systems of reverse mathematics. While retaining the usual base theory and working still within second order arithmetic, theorems are described that range from those far below the usual systems to ones far above.
Eosinophilic myeloid neoplasms

PURPOSE OF REVIEW In 2012, idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES) is still the prevalent diagnosis in patients with persistent eosinophilia, in which a primary or secondary cause of eosinophilia has not been identified. HES is considered a provisional diagnosis until a primary or secondary cause of hypereosinophilia is established. The discovery of imatinib-sensitive fusion proteins in a subset of patients with hypereosinophilia has changed the way we approach the diagnosis and treatment of eosinophilic myeloid neoplasms [eosinophilic myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs)]. Despite the recent diagnostic developments, diagnosis of hypereosinophilic MPN is only made in 10-20% of patients with persistent primary hypereosinophilia. RECENT FINDINGS In 2008 the World Health Organization (WHO) established a semi-molecular classification of hypereosinophilic MPNs. The discovery of PDGFRA, PDGFRB, FGFR1, JAK-2, and FLT3 fusion proteins in patients with eosinophilic MPNs provide opportunities for targeted therapy. Patients with hypereosinophilic MPNs associated with PDGFRA and PDGFRB fusion genes are responsive to imatinib. SUMMARY Ongoing research continues to expand our understanding of the pathophysiology of persistent primary hypereosinophilia and clarify the boundaries between some of these disorders. A key challenge is to identify new targets for therapy and limit the number of patients who are classified as having HES.
Past failures and future problems: the psychology of irregular war

Personal cognitive processes inform how individuals understand their environment. Cultural variation, fundamental attribution error, causal attribution, and durability bias create obstacles to Western understanding of irregular war and have created a significant institutional bias in how the US military perceives its enemies- a perception only somewhat softened after a decade of irregular war. United Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) is in a better position to overcome these problems through persistent engagement. In the event of major conflict, environmentally sensitized military planners will be better able to achieve military and policy objectives.
In vivo effects of LR5182, cis-3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-2-n,n-dimethylaminomethyl- bicyclo-[2,2,2]-octane hydrochloride, an inhibitor of uptake into dopamine and norepinephrine neurons.

Abstract cis -3-(3,4-Dichlorophenyl)-2- N , N -dimethylaminomethyl-bicyclo-[2,2,2]-octane hydrochloride, (LR5182) antagonized the depletion of heart norepinephrine by 6-hydroxydopamine but not the depletion of brain serotonin by p -chloroamphetamine in mice. Norepinephrine depletion was antagonized by LR5182 following α -methyl- m -tyrosine injection into rats both in the cerebral hemispheres and in the hypothalamus. The drug also antagonized dopamine depletion in the cerebral hemispheres but did not antagonize epinephrine depletion in the hypothalamus in these rats. The concentration of α -methyl- m -tyramine and of metaraminol in the cerebral hemispheres of rats was lowered by LR5182 after α -methyl- m -tyrosine injection; since these amine metabolites are taken up and retained by dopamine and norepinephrine neurons, respectively, this lowering is a further indication of the inhibition of uptake into dopamine and norepinephrine neurons by LR5182. The elevation of brain DOPAC (3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid) was significantly enhanced by LR5182 following spiperone injection, an effect characteristic of a particular subclass of dopamine uptake inhibitors.
Calling Behaviour in Arctiid Moths: The Effects of Temperature and Wind Speed on the Rhythmic Exposure of the Sex Attractant Gland

Abstract Female arctiid moths rhythmically extrude their ovipositors and thereby rhythmically expose their sex pheromone glands while calling. In Utetheisa ornatrix this behaviour results in concentration-modulated or pulsed pheromone release. The ovipositor protrusion frequencies were determined for 15 arctiid species: U. ornatrix, Haploa clymene, H. colona, H. lecontei, Pyrrarctia isabella, Estigmene acrea , Spilosoma congrua, S. virginica, Ecpantheria scribonia, Phragmatobia fuliginosa, Apantesis nais, A. arge , Pareuchaetes insulata, Cycnia tenera , and Euchaetes egle . Moth species that call early in the scotophase extrude their ovipositors at high frequencies (up to 170.9 ± 24.9 extrusions/min at 25°C) while moth species that call late in scotophase extrude their ovipositors at low frequencies (down to 68.3 ± 5.4 extrusions/min at 25°C). In all species tested, the ovipositor extrusion frequencies were shown to be temperature sensitive with a mean Q 10 of 2.0 ± 0.1. In one species, U. ornatrix , the ovipositor extrusion frequency varies with wind speed. In still air the ovipositor extrusion frequency is 70.1 ± 8.4 extrusions/min and at a wind speed of 120 cm/s the ovipositor extrusion frequency is 142.1 ± 8.3 extrusions/min. Suggested functions for rhythmic ovipositor extrusion during calling are discussed.
Magnetic circular dichroism studies. XXXIII. The MCD spectrum of formaldehyde vapor

Abstract The MCD spectrum of formaldehyde in the vapor phase has been measured and analyzed. Triplet bands occur with unusually high ellipticity, allowing identification of several new singlet-triplet bands. Also, an additional singlet progression, based on two quanta of the out-of-plane band and a single quantum of the antisymmetric CH stretch, has been identified.
Active Immunization with Pneumolysin versus 23-Valent Polysaccharide Vaccine for Streptococcus pneumoniae Keratitis.

Purpose. The purpose of this study was to determine whether active immunization against pneumolysin (PLY), or polysaccharide capsule, protects against the corneal damage associated with Streptococcus pneumoniae keratitis.
Function of the parathyroid gland of the snake, Thamnophis sirtalis.

Garter snakes, Thamnophis sirtalis, have four parathyroid glands that are similar histologically to those of other reptiles. A high percentage of the animals also possess accessory parathyroid tissue. Complete parathyroidectomy of the snakes produced severe depression of serum calcium values, tetanic convulsions, and significant elevation of serum phosphate within several weeks of the operation. Administration of mammalian parathyroid extract to normal snakes had the opposite effects, elevating serum calcium and depressing serum phosphate concentrations. In contrast, mammalian calcitonin preparations did not significantly affect serum calcium or phosphate values. The parathyroid glands of snakes thus function to maintain normal neuromuscular coordination by regulating blood calcium and phosphate concentrations.
The toxicity of air pollution in experimental animals and humans: the role of oxidative stress.

Abstract Nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ) and ozone (O 3 ) occur throughout the world as the primary pollutants of urban air. NO 2 and O 3 oxidize cell membrane lipids and proteins. Inflammatory agents are elaborated from the lung either as a direct result of oxidation or as a consequence of leukocytes recruited into the lung by injury. My hypothesis is that NO 2 and O 3 initiate or exacerbate chronic lung disease through an inflammatory mechanism which can be reduced by supplementation with greater amounts than those required to alleviate vitamin deficiency symptoms of vitamins C (ascorbic acid) and E (α-tocopherol). Children, whose lungs are developing, are the most likely group to benefit from supplementation with vitamins C and E because the adverse effects of inflammation on the developing lung are likely to be greater and the time of exposure is longer than in adults. This hypothesis is in accord with current human and experimental animal data and the chemistry of O 3 and NO 2 toxicity, and is supported by recent ecological epidemiological studies of persons supplementing their intake of vitamins C and E.
Effects of inhibition of ribosomal RNA synthesis on the stimulation of lymphocytes by phytohaemagglutinin.

Abstract Low concentrations of actinomycin inhibit the synthesis of ribosomal RNA preferentially in stimulated human lymphocytes. When ribosomal RNA synthesis was completely inhibited in this fashion there was still a substantial stimulation of the rate of lymphocyte protein synthesis by PHA, and persistence of some of the morphological changes typical of transformation. However, inhibition of ribosomal RNA synthesis was associated with inhibition of DNA synthesis and mitosis in lymphocytes incubated with PHA. Although these phenomena may be coordinately regulated, it is suggested that the low ribosome level may be an important factor preventing DNA synthesis, and thus cell division, by lymphocytes.
Resolution enhancement of a.c. polarographic peaks by deconvolution using the fast fourier transform

Abstract A method for resolution enhancement of a.c. polarograms (voltammograms) is presented. The method is based on deconvolution using fast Fourier transforms. Overlapped a.c. polarograms are mathematically narrowed and sharpened, retaining the peak position and linear proportionality of the sharpened peak height with concentration. The advantages and limitations of the method are demonstrated on simulated and experimental a.c. polarograms. The same approach is applicable to related techniques such as. differential pulse and square-wave polarography.
Cometabolism: a critique.

Abstract Examination of the descriptive features of cometabolism shows that they do not distinguish an activity distinct from ordinary metabolism. Thus, further use of the term “cometabolism” is without merit.
Sex-role ideology and children's drawings: Does the jack-o-lantern smile or scare?

Jack-o-lanterns drawn by kindergarteners were submitted to adult judges who were asked both to identify the child's gender from the drawing and to give reasons for the judgment made. Judges agreed that the characteristics distinguishing girls' from boys' drawings were use of details, neatness, colorfulness, smiling face, and symmetry; while boys' drawings differed from girls' in their frightening faces, messiness, incompleteness, and unconventionality. Judges were accurate about 60% of the time in identifying boys but only about 30% of the time in identifying girls, a statistically reliable difference.
How we learn about things we don't already understand

The computation-as-cognition metaphor requires that all cognitive objects are constructed from a fixed set of basic primitives; prominent models of cognition and perception try to provide that fixed set. Despite this effort, however, there are no extant computational models that can actually generate complex concepts and processes from simple and generic basic sets, and there are good reasons to wonder whether such models may be forthcoming. We suggest that one can have the benefits of computationalism without a commitment to fixed feature sets, by postulating processes that slowly develop special-purpose feature languages, from which knowledge is constructed. This provides an alternative to the fixed-model conception without radical anti-representationlism. Substantial evidence suggests that such feature development adaptation actually occurs in the perceptual learning that accompanies category learning. Given the existence of robust methods for novel feature creation, the assumption of a fixed basis set...
Multi-vehicle path coordination under communication constraints

We generate time-optimal velocity profiles for a group of path-constrained vehicles with fixed and known initial and goal locations. Each vehicle robot must follow a fixed path, arrive at its goal as quickly as possible (or at least not increase the time for the last robot to arrive at its goal) and stay in communication with other robots in the arena throughout its journey. We seek to solve this multi-objective optimization problem by generating optimal velocities along the paths. The problem is formulated as a nonlinear programming problem (NLP) with constraints on the kinematics, dynamics, collision avoidance and communication. Solutions demonstrate the trade off between the arrival time, the required transmission power and the communication connectivity requirements. Typically the optimization improved connectivity at no appreciable cost in journey time (as measured by the time of arrival of the last-arriving robot).
Using Artificial Neural Networks to Model Nonlinearity: The Case of the Job Satisfaction--Job Performance Relationship

Neural networks are advanced pattern recognition algorithms capable of extracting complex, nonlinear relationships among variables. This study examines those capabilities by modeling nonlinearities in the job satisfaction—job performance relationship with multilayer perceptron and radial basis function neural networks. A framework for studying nonlinear relationships with neural networks is offered. It is implemented using the job satisfaction—job performance relationship with results indicative of pervasive patterns of nonlinearity.
Autocrine TGF-β1 Mediates Angiotensin II–Induced Proliferative Response of Cerebral Vessels In Vivo

Background Angiotensin II (Ang) has been shown to induce expression of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) in cardiovascular cells in vitro, but the regulation of TGF-β1 by Ang has not been shown in cerebral vessels in vivo. Here, we tested the hypothesis that Ang promotes proliferative and fibrogenic responses in cerebral vessels through autocrine production and signaling of TGF-β1 by vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC). Methods Rats were implanted with miniosmotic pumps that delivered a low dose of Ang (9 μg/kg/h subcutaneously for 4 to 28 days). To test for autocrine production and signaling of TGF-β1 by VSMC, we suppressed TGF-β1 gene expression in VSMC by infusing antisense oligodeoxynucleotide (AS-ODN) versus sense oligodeoxynucleotide (S-ODN) into the cisterna magna. Results Systemic infusion of Ang for 28 days caused upregulation of proliferative cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and of collagen type I in endothelium and VSMC of basilar arteries, with these changes observed as early as day 4, before the onset of hypertension. Also by day 4, significant increases in expression of TGF-β1, TGF-β receptors I and II, and phospho-Smad3 were observed in endothelial and VSMC layers, but plasma levels of TGF-β1 were unchanged. With AS-ODN, but not S-ODN, TGF-β1 was significantly reduced in VSMC but not in endothelial layers of the basilar artery, and PCNA and collagen upregulation in VSMC were essentially eliminated. Conclusions Autocrine TGF-β1 signaling in VSMC is required for Ang-induced proliferative and fibrogenic responses in cerebral vessels in vivo.
A mode-locked microchip laser optical transmitter for fiber radio

This paper is concerned with the optical domain generation of high-quality millimeter-wave signals for fiber-radio and other applications. The mode-locked millimeter-wave optical transmitter described is based on simple electrooptic microchip laser technology. The transmitter can be designed to operate from a few gigahertz to 100 GHz and beyond. The residual phase noise of the laser is below -100 dBc/Hz at 1-kHz offset, which makes it well suited for optically fed millimeter-wave wireless applications. A key feature of the transmitter is its simplicity, the very small number of elements it employs and the high level of integration of the millimeter-wave and photonic components that results in a small, rugged, and reliable package. The paper describes the design, fabrication, and experimental evaluation of the transmitter.
Loop gain estimation for adaptive control

The identification of a linear discrete-time control system's open-loop gain is addressed. The classical Kalman filter theory for state estimation in linear control systems is extended, and the control system's loop gain and states are jointly estimated. A rigorous analysis of the measurement situation on hand yields explicit formulae for the loop gain's unbiased estimate and estimation error's covariance.
A MEDIATIONAL MODEL OF AUTONOMY, SELF‐ESTEEM, AND EATING DISORDERED ATTITUDES AND BEHAVIORS

This study expands upon existing literature by examining how the relationship between autonomy deficits and low self-esteem may create a psychological environment conducive to the development of eating disordered behaviors. Findings supported a mediational model to account for eating disordered behaviors in 71 college women. In this model, lack of autonomy was related to decreased global self-esteem, which in turn was associated with bulimia, body dissatisfaction, and drive for thinness. Although only tentative and cross-sectional in nature, this study is of particular importance because it links autonomy and self-esteem in a coherent model predictive of eating disordered behaviors in college women. Developmental aspects of eating disorders and treatment implications are discussed.
Distension of central great vein decreases sympathetic outflow in humans

Classic canine studies suggest that central great vein distension evokes an autonomic reflex tachycardia (Bainbridge reflex). It is unclear whether central venous distension in humans is a necessar...
Decomposition-Based Assembly Synthesis Based on Structural Stiffness Considerations

This paper presents a method for systematically decomposes product geometry into a set of components considering the structural stiffness of the end product. A structure is represented a graph of its topology, and the optimal decomposition is obtained by combining FEM analyses with a Genetic Algorithm. As a case study, the side frame of a passenger car is decomposed for the minimum distortion of the front door panel geometry, where spot-welded joints are modeled as torsional springs. First, the rates of the torsional springs are treated as constant values obtained in the literature. Second, they are treated as design variables within realistic bounds. By allowing the change in the joint rates, it is demonstrated that the optimal decomposition can achieve the smaller distortion with less amount of joint stiffness (hence less welding spots), than the optimal decomposition with the typical joint rates available in the literature.
A comparison of the focusing properties of a Fresnel zone plate with a hyperbolic lens using a full electromagnetic analysis

In this paper, the body-of-revolution finite-difference time-domain (BOR-FDTD) method is used to study the performance of a Fresnel zone plate in a focusing system. Results from a comparison of a zone plate with a doubly-hyperbolic lens will be presented to illustrate the benefits and limitations of the zone plate.
A high-performance V6 converter for fuel cell power conditioning system

A power conditioning system that includes a DC-DC converter and a DC-AC inverter tends to draw both high frequency switching and low-frequency load current ripples at the input. Such ripple currents may shorten fuel cell life span and worsen the fuel efficiency. The most obvious impact is it tends to reduce the fuel cell output capacity because the fuel cell controller trips under instantaneous over-current condition. In this paper, a high performance fuel cell power conditioning system is presented to show superior efficiency and high-frequency ripple current elimination using a multiphase DC-DC converter and low-frequency ripple current elimination using a multiple loop control technique. The proposed power conditioning system has been designed, built, and verified with both computer simulation and hardware experiment using a proton exchange membrane fuel cell. Test results show the entire high-performance fuel cell power conditioning system not only achieves high efficiency of 97% for individual power conversion stages but also eliminates the current ripple going back to fuel cell with a cost effective control design.
Sociable robot systems for real-world problems

Human-robot interaction research is maturing to the point where we can begin to build systems that interact with people in their daily lives and provide support for particular needs. We propose that sociable robot systems are systems that comprise a sociable robot, other technological devices, methods for interaction, and methods for relationship creation and maintenance. These systems can be designed as solutions to address particular needs such as health care or behavior change goals. We discuss the social support benefits of creating a relationship between a person and a robot and offer ideas for how this might be done. A system that is currently under development in our lab to help obese patients who have recently lost weight maintain their target weight is presented as an example of this kind of sociable robot system.
Short‐Term and Long‐Term Effects of Training in Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy: Professional and Personal Aspects

This study investigated the immediate and long-term personal and professional effects of a 4-day externship training in emotionally focused couple therapy (EFT). EFT externship training uses lecture, discussion, video vignettes, live demonstrations, and role-plays to convey an attachment-based approach to working with couples. The two samples included clinicians (N = 76) who completed surveys immediately before and after training, and a subset of these clinicians (N = 29) who completed measures an average of 8 months later. Results indicate that following training, participants increased in their EFT knowledge and competence, became more open to their feelings, were more self-compassionate, were less likely to use avoidant attachment behaviors, and improved their own personal relationships.
Micro-CT dilatometry measures of molecular collagen hydration using bovine extensor tendon.

Purpose: This article introduces a new method to study macromolecular hydration using micro-CT dilatometry. The complexity of hydration dependence on solvent temperature, p H , ionic charge, ionic activity, and ionic radii are barriers to comprehensive understanding of protein function. The crystalline character of collagen-tendon suggests that tendon dilatometry may give direct access to measures of molecular tropocollagen solvation response. Methods: The molecular basis of thestoichiometric hydration model (SHM) provides tools to validate bovine tendon as a model to study protein-solvent shape response by micro-CT measures of tendon diameter, length, and mass during dehydration. The SHM relates macroscopic properties to molecular properties of water interacting with the surface of collagen molecules. There are marked changes at critical SHM hydration levels h = 0.0653 , 0.262, and 0.724 g water/g dry weight. Results: Micro-CT analysis of the length, diameter, and volume combined with gravimetric measures of tendon mass as a function of hydration h(g water/g dry solid) shows asymmetric changes in length, diameter, and density as predicted by SHM. The collagen molecules perturb water properties of polar hydration N = 11 waters per tripeptide unit or h ∼ 0.724 g / g to confirm MDS prediction of elevated hydration density 20%–50% higher than bulk water. Conclusions: Results validate the use of tendon dilatometry amplification factors of 10 6 – 10 8 as an effective model to investigate protein molecule shape change response to solvent molecules. The tendon model for the first time allows direct study of protein hydration and functional response under physiological conditions.
Model-Based Product-Oriented Certification

Future space missions such as the Mars Science Laboratory and Project Constellation suggest the engineering of some of the most complex man-rated software systems. The present process-oriented certification methodologies employed by NASA are becoming prohibitively expensive when applied to systems of such complexity. The process of software certification establishes the level of confidence in a software system in the context of its functional and safety requirements. Providing such certification evidence may require the application of a number of software development, analysis, and validation techniques. We define product-oriented certification as the process of measuring the system's reliability and efficiency based on the analysis of its design (expressed in models) and implementation (expressed in source code). In this work we introduce a framework for model-based product-oriented certification founded on the concept of source code enhancement and analysis. We describe a classification of the certification artifact types, the development and validation tools and techniques, the application domain-specific factors, and the levels of abstraction. We demonstrate the application of our certification platform by analyzing the process of model-based development of the parallel autonomic goals network, a critical component of the Jet Propulsion Laboratory's Mission Data System (MDS). We describe how we identify and satisfy seven critical certification artifacts in the process of model-driven development and validation of the MDS goal network. In the analysis of this process, we establish the relationship among the seven certification artifacts, the applied development and validation techniques and tools, and the level of abstraction of system design and development.
Obstacle traversal for space exploration

Obstacle traversal aims at selecting a feasible path through an obstacle field. It is different from obstacle avoidance in that the path selected might climb over some obstacles if this is "cheaper" than going around. Climbing over obstacles allows to generate shorter paths in the case of large concave obstacles. A planner is presented that produces traversable paths, taking into account terrain topography, robot parameters, and robot/ground interaction. This planner is applicable to outdoor applications, such as Mars exploration, where absolute avoidance of obstacles is not necessary. Examples for a Mars rover are presented.
Measurement of plasma glycerol specific activity by high performance liquid chromatography to determine glycerol flux.

Previous methods for measuring plasma glycerol specific activity (SA) are suboptimal, making the determina- tion of glycerol kinetics in vivo with radiotracers difficult. A new high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method is described that permits the accurate and specific measurement of glycerol SA. The method involves isolation of glycerol from plasma and the formation of a tribenzoyl derivative. Glycerol rate of appearance was measured in five human volunteers using both (2- 3 H)glycerol and ( 2 H 5 ) glycerol. There was close agreement between the glycerol appearance rates measured using the two approaches (1.66 6 0.14 vs. 1.70 6 0.10 m mol ? kg 2 1 ? min 2 1 , respectively, P 5
Vasopressin Antagonists: Pharmacotherapy for the Treatment of Heart Failure

ObjectiveTo evaluate acute hemodynamic, short-term, and long-term effects of vasopressin antagonists in patients with heart failure (HF).Data sourcesSearches of the PubMed database (1966–February 2010) were conducted. Search terms included AVP receptor antagonist, CHF, tolvaptan, conivaptan, lixivaptan, HF, and hyponatremia. Manufacturers’ prescribing information, manufacturer Web site searches, and searches made on www.clinicaltrials.gov were also included.Study selection and data extractionAll clinical trials identified from the reference search and data sources were reviewed. Articles were included if they were relevant to short-term and long-term outcomes of patients with HF who were treated with vasopressin antagonists.Data synthesisTrials of conivaptan, tolvaptan, and lixivaptan were evaluated. The evidence indicates that all agents increase urine output >10 mL/h, and conivaptan and tolvaptan decrease pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (–2.6 ± 0.7, –5.4 ± 0.7, and –4.6 ± 0.7 mm Hg for placebo, coniv...
High-fructose feeding elicits insulin resistance, hyperinsulinism, and hypertension in normal mongrel dogs

To determine whether chronic high-fructose feeding causes insulin resistance and hypertension in normal dogs, we fed 10 male dogs a normosodic diet containing 60% of the calories as fructose for 20 to 28 days; a control group of 8 dogs was fed a similar diet containing dextrose instead of fructose. In the fructose-fed group, (1) fasting triglyceridemia increased from 35.3 +/- 0.63 to 91.9 +/- 11.55 mg/dL after 25 days (P < .001); (2) fasting insulinemia increased from 19.0 +/- 1.9 to 58.9 +/- 7.22 microU/mL after 25 days (P < .001); (3) insulin resistance, which was estimated by steady-state glycemia during an insulin suppression test, increased from 105.8 +/- 21.5 to 187.8 +/- 32.6 mg/dL after 15 days (P < .001), whereas steady-state insulinemia did not change; (4) mean arterial pressure increased from 100.4 +/- 1.6 to 122.6 +/- 2.3 mm Hg after 28 days (P < .01); and (5) cumulative sodium balance was increased on days 7 through 11 (111.60 +/- 4.44 mEq on day 8, P < .01), returning to normal for the rest of the experiment. All these parameters were similar between the fructose-fed and dextrose-fed groups before the diets were started and remained constant in the dextrose-fed group. Neither group showed any change in body weight, fasting plasma glucose, atrial natriuretic factor, or endothelin-1 levels. We conclude that chronic high-fructose feeding elicits hypertriglyceridemia, insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, hypertension, and a transient sodium retention in dogs without fostering fasting hyperglycemia or weight gain.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Biasing simple choices by manipulating relative visual attention

Several decision-making models predict that it should be possible to affect real binary choices by manipulating the relative amount of visual attention that decision-makers pay to the two alternatives. We present the results of three behavioral experiments testing this prediction. Visual attention is controlled by manipulating the amount of time subjects fixate on the two items. The manipulation has a differential impact on appetitive and aversive items. Appetitive items are 6 to 11% more likely to be chosen in the long fixation condition. In contrast, aversive items are 7% less likely to be chosen in the long fixation condition. The effect is present for primary goods, such as foods, and for higher-order durable goods, such as posters.
Thermal unfolding of the N-terminal RNA binding domain of the human U1A protein studied by differential scanning calorimetry

Abstract Thermal unfolding of the N-terminal RNA binding domain of human U1A protein (RBD1) and several variants has been observed by differential scanning calorimetry. Unfolding of the 95 amino acid domain is reversible and cooperative between pH 2.0 and 2.8 in 40 mM glycine, with a heat capacity for the transition of 1.2 kcal mol −1 K −1 , and an unfolding free energy of 4.0 kcal mol −1 at pH 2.3 and 25°C. At higher pH, thermal unfolding is irreversible. In contrast, unfolding of the protein by guanidine hydrochloride denaturation at pH 2.3 and pH 7.0 is reversible, with unfolding free energies of 6.6 and 9.0 kcal mol −1 , respectively. DSC experiments show that RBD variants in which the N-terminal tail is truncated, or in which a functional loop is substituted, have altered unfolding free energies but little variation in their heat capacities of transition.
Mapping Expression Quantitative Trait Loci

The transcript abundance can be treated as a classical quantitative trait, and thus, mapping can be done on the transcript (Brem et al. 2002; Cheung and Spielman 2002; Schadt et al. 2003).Mendelian loci in the genome that control the expression levels of transcripts are called expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL). In eQTL analysis, an expression trait is mapped to genomic locations represented by cis- or trans-loci. The cis-eQTL represent sequence variants that encode transcriptional differences. The trans-eQTL, however, represent remote genes that regulate the expression of the gene being transcribed. The purpose of a linkage study is to identify the cis- and trans-eQTL for each transcript. Results from the eQTL analysis may provide more detailed information about the biological processes of the gene network than the classical quantitative trait analysis (Emilsson et al. 2008; Cookson et al. 2009). The usual quantitative traits are often gross clinical measurements and may be far remote from the biological processes giving rise to clinical traits.
Differential signaling mechanism for HIV-1 Nef-mediated production of IL-6 and IL-8 in human astrocytes

Variety of HIV-1 viral proteins including HIV-1 Nef are known to activate astrocytes and microglia in the brain and cause the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which is thought to be one of the mechanisms leading to HIV-1- mediated neurotoxicity. IL-6 and IL-8 have been found in the CSF of patients with HIV-1 associated dementia (HAD), suggesting that they might play important roles in HIV-1 neuropathology. In the present study we examined the effects of HIV-1 Nef on IL-6 and IL-8 induction in astrocytes. The results demonstrate that both IL-6 and IL-8 are significantly induced in HIV-1 Nef-transfected SVGA astrocytes and HIV-1 Nef-treated primary fetal astrocytes. We also determined the molecular mechanisms responsible for the HIV-1 Nef-induced increased IL-6 and IL-8 by using chemical inhibitors and siRNAs against PI3K/Akt/PKC, p38 MAPK, NF-κB, CEBP and AP-1. Our results clearly demonstrate that the PI3K/PKC, p38 MAPK, NF-κB and AP-1 pathways are involved in HIV-1 Nef-induced IL-6 production in astrocytes, while PI3K/PKC and NF-κB pathways are involved in HIV-1 Nef-induced IL-8 production. These results offer new potential targets to develop therapeutic strategy for treatment of HIV-1 associated neurological disorders, prevalent in > 40% of individuals infected with HIV-1.
Developing an Experiment with GIFT: Then and Now

The Generalized Intelligent Framework for Tutoring (GIFT) is a do- main-independent open-source intelligent tutoring framework. In the past new versions of GIFT were released every 6 months, and currently, officially tested versions of GIFT are released every 9 months. Each new version of GIFT in- cludes additional capabilities and functionalities. In the current paper and presentation, the "Logic Puzzle Tutorial" course that was developed in GIFT 2.5, and has been included with releases of GIFT since version 4.0 will be dis- cussed. The presentation will describe the rationale and methods behind the course's development, and discuss different approaches that might have been used with the features that are present in GIFT today.