cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Medication Use Characteristics in the Elderly: The Iowa 65+ Rural Health Study

Medication use was studied in a rural, elderly population. Household interviews were conducted of 3,467 individuals aged 65 years or older. A total of 9,955 prescription or nonprescription drugs were reported by the respondents. The overall mean number of drugs per respondent was 2.87, while 12% of all respondents were not taking any drugs. Mean prescription and overall drug use increased significantly with increasing age (P less than .001), while mean nonprescription drug use was relatively constant across age groups. Significantly more women were prescription and nonprescription drug users. Directions for scheduled daily dosing accounted for 75% of all directions. The majority of prescription and nonprescription drugs had been taken on the previous day. General practitioners accounted for more prescription drugs (39.7%) than any other medical specialty. The most frequently stated purpose was cardiovascular for prescription drugs and musculoskeletal for nonprescription drugs. The three most frequent prescription drug therapeutic categories were cardiovascular (54.7%), central nervous system (CNS) agents (11.4%), and analgesics (9.4%). For nonprescription drugs, the three most frequent therapeutic categories were analgesics (39.6%), vitamins and minerals (32.9%), and laxatives (14.1%). Implications of these findings are discussed.
Cold-hardiness in several species of land snails

Abstract 1. 1.|Mean supercooling points (SCP) of Anguispira alternata (Say) gradually declined in autumn and increased in spring. SCP also declined in autumn in Discus conrkhitei (Newcomb) and Gastrocopta armifera (Say). 2. 2.|Supercooling ability varied among the species, being the greatest in G. armifera . 3. 3.|Prolonged exposure of winter animals to high temperatures resulted in only a modest increase in SCP. 4. 4.|Low temperature survival of D. cronkhitei and G. armifera was slightly poorer than predicted by the mean SCP.
Liquid crystal Bragg gratings: dynamic optical elements for spatial light modulators

Bragg gratings yield a single diffracted order when irradiated by a coherent beam at the appropriate Bragg angle. In many cases, nearly all of the energy of the incident beam can be coupled to the diffracted beam. Hence these gratings can form many useful optical elements, and this has been realized in 1-D, 2-D, and 3-D photonic crystals. Bragg gratings made with liquid crystals offer the added dimension of dynamic properties through the large electro-optical effect in liquid crystals. Applications for spatial light modulators are numerous, including optical switches, modulators, active optical elements (e.g., lenses), laser sources, and tunable filters. We have been exploring a number of approaches for making liquid crystal Bragg gratings, including holographic polymer-dispersed liquid crystals, cholesteric liquid crystals, and homogenous nematic liquid crystals in hybrid devices. We have studied the dynamic properties of these Bragg gratings by electrical, thermal, and optical stimulation. Modification and control of optical and dynamic properties have been obtained through combinations of liquid crystals with polymers, combinations of various dopant materials, and interactions of liquid crystals with organic and inorganic interfaces. We discuss the materials, fabrication, characterization, and physics of liquid crystal Bragg gratings and present the results of various devices we have studied in our lab. We will also discuss potential applications.
Operation of pipeless batch plants – I. MILP schedules

Pipeless batch plants are an emerging technology for multipurpose chemical batch production. Optimization formulations for the design, layout and scheduling of pipeless batch plants have been developed. These mixed integer linear programming (MILP) formulations make certain assumptions about the operation of this new type of batch plant. For example, the detailed movement of vessels is left up to a control algorithm, and the travel times are assumed to be long enough to allow conflicts to be resolved. In this paper we examine the implementation of plant schedules generated by the MILP. A discrete event simulator (DES) has been coupled to the output of the MILP to simulate plant operation while allowing for variations in its operation such as vessel travel times and task durations. First, the paper describes how the MILP schedule is implemented in the DES, given that DES are event driven rather than time driven. Second, the performance of two different plant layouts, with the same equipment, is compared. The DES is able to differentiate the performance of these layouts whereas the differences were invisible to the MILP due to the assumptions involved in the formulation. Third, small pertubations to processing and travel times are introduced in the plant. The overall plant performance does not degrade significantly indicating that the tightly coupled MILP schedules are not hypersensitive to the variations.
Relationships between Service Providers and Their Impact on Customers

Relationships between service providers and customers are important for achieving high levels of customer satisfaction and loyalty, service management scholars have shown. Building from existing theories, the author proposes that relationships between service providers are another important contributor to customer outcomes. When service processes are highly interdependent, uncertain, and time constrained, relationships between service providers are integral to the process of coordination and therefore are an important contributor to customer outcomes. In a study of postsurgical care in nine hospitals, the author finds that strong provider-provider relationships directly increase customer satisfaction and loyalty because the overall service experience is more effectively coordinated. Second, strong provider-provider relationships help service providers to develop more effective relationships with their customers, which further increases customer satisfaction and loyalty. Managers should therefore select, t...
The impact of a major televised sporting event on emergency department census

This study examines the effect of a major televised sporting event, the Super Bowl, on emergency department (ED) census. Daily patient census figures for the month of January 1988-1992 were obtained. Individual shift census was divided by monthly mean census to compare relative volume. Census figures for 4 of the 5 Super Bowl days were significantly lower than the remaining 143 days studied. The day of the Super Bowl was the month's slowest shift for 3 of the 5 days. When the local team was a playoff participant, a stronger association was noted. The results demonstrate a significant decrease in ED utilization coinciding with the Super Bowl broadcast. Major televised events can significantly decrease ED volume, especially when local interest is present. Staffing changes may then be made accordingly.
Expression of the nonstructural proteins of Sindbis virus in insect cells by a baculovirus vector.

Abstract The genome of Sindbis virus encodes the polypeptides that are required for the replication and transcription of the virus RNA in infected cells. These polypeptides are translated as a polyprotein that is co- and post-translationally cleaved by an autoproteinase to give rise to four polypeptides designated nsP1, nsP2, nsP3 and NSP4. We have initiated a study of the functions of these proteins by expressing them in the Autographa californica baculovirus polyhedrin expression system. Spodoptera frugiperda cells infected with the recombinant baculovirus synthesized the four Sindbis polypeptides. We used a complementation assay which measures chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) activity to demonstrate that these proteins were biologically active. The infected cells were transfected with a Sindbis defective RNA that contains the CAT gene downstream of the promoter for the synthesis of the viral subgenomic RNA. CAT activity was found only in cells that had been infected with the recombinant baculovirus, not with wild type baculovirus, indicating that the required Sindbis nsP activities were present. Sindbis virions grew poorly in S. frugiperda cells and self-replicating Sindbis RNAs produced only very low levels of biological activity. Our results suggest that these cells are defective in their ability to replicate Sindbis RNAs and that the block is partially overcome when the Sindbis nsP mRNA is expressed under the control of the baculovirus DNA.
A model for low pressure chemical vapor deposition in a hot-wall tubular reactor

A general fundamental model for low pressure chemical vapor deposition in a multiwafer reactor has been developed and evaluated in terms of its ability to predict polycrystalline silicon growth rate data from a commercial reactor. The model incorporates a fundamental description of the chemical kinetics of silane based on molecular beam measurements for the reactive sticking coefficient of silane on silicon. Predictions from the model are found to be in excellent agreement with the reactor deposition data for a wide range of typical operating conditions.
The 3 K blackbody radiation, Dirac's Large Numbers Hypothesis, and scale-covariant cosmology

A program is described which is intended to derive a generalized system of gravitational equations that allow (but do not require) G to vary, to use the 3-K blackbody radiation to fix the relation between G and the gauge function, and to employ Dirac's (1937) Large Numbers Hypothesis to derive the geometry of the universe. Einstein's equations are retained in their total integrity, but the specification is made that they are valid only when gravitational units are used. A scale-invariant form of Einstein's equations is obtained, and from this are derived the energy conservation law, the baryon-number conservation law, and the appropriate cosmological equations. Dirac's proposals of 1937 and 1973 are incorporated into the formalism, and a gauge based on consolidation of the 3-K blackbody radiation is presented. A unique solution for the geometry of the universe is determined for zero curvature solely from the 3-K radiation and the Large Numbers Hypothesis; this solution predicts a deceleration parameter exactly equal to unity.
Do We Need the Entry-Exit Condition on Polluting Firms?

Abstract Given that marginal pollution damage increases with emissions, a polluting firm′s total Pigouvian tax payments will exceed the total damage that it causes. There is a long-standing concern in the environmental economics literature that this disparity could force a polluting firm to shut down even though its net social product is positive. However, such a problem exists only in a partial equilibrium analysis. In a conventional general equilibrium model with standard neoclassical, price-coordinated firms, the fact that Pigouvian taxes exceed total damages is as normal a phenomenon as producer or consumer surplus.
Hypovolemic thirst in comparison with thirst induced by hyperosmolarity

Abstract Thirst induced by subcutaneous injection of a hyperoncotic colloidal solution and associated with decreased intravascular fluid volume (hypovolemia) was contrasted with thirst induced by subcutaneous injection of hypertonic NaCl solution and associated with hyperosmolarity and decreased intracellular fluid volume. Intragastric preloads of isotonic NaCl solution reduced “hypovolemic thirst” more efficiently than did equal preloads of distilled water, whereas the opposite was the case with “hyperosmolar thirst.” However, when given a choice between 0.15 M NaCl and water to drink, rats did not show differential preference behavior as a function of colloid or 1.0 M NaCl treatment but tended to prefer the saline solution to water under both conditions. While the preloading data support the notion that thirst is mediated by two types of receptors, one responsive to the volume and the other to the effective osmolarity of the intravascular fluid, the preference data indicate that fluid intake is not determined solely by homeostatic factors but may also be influenced by other factors such as the palatability of the fluid.
Comparison of handsewn with stapled loop ileostomy closures.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to determine if a stapled side-to-side closure of an ileostomy results in decreased length of hospital stay compared with a handsewn closure. METHODS: From March 1993 to August 1994, patients who had previously undergone total proctocolectomy with pelvic pouch formation and loop ileostomy were studied. At the time of ileostomy closure, patients were randomized to have their stoma closed by a handsewn technique or stapled closure. Data were prospectively gathered. RESULTS: During 17 months, 61 consecutive patients (38 male, 23 female) with a mean age of 37.8 (range, 16–69) years had their ileostomy closed and were entered into this study. There were 31 patients in the stapled group and 30 in the handsewn group. Mean operative time was 55 (range, 32–97) minutes in the stapled group and 67 (range, 42–128) minutes in the handsewn group (P=0.01 Wilcoxon's test). Average length of stay was three (range, 2–5) days in the stapled group and 2.5 (range, 1–19) days in the handsewn group. One patient from the stapled group and two patients from the handsewn group were readmitted because of small-bowel obstruction. One patient from the stapled group underwent additional surgery for a leaking enterotomy with no defect in staple closure. Two patients from the handsewn group underwent additional surgery for small-bowel obstruction. There was no significant difference in day of first stool or day of solid diet for the two groups. CONCLUSION: Handsewn and stapled closures of loop ileostomy are not significantly different with respect to day of first stool, day until solid diet, or discharge day. Complications were similar in the two groups. Stapled closure is significantly quicker than handsewn closure.
Social facilitation of d-amphetamine self-administration in rats.

The link between social influence and drug abuse has long been established in humans. However, preclinical animal models of drug abuse have only recently begun to consider the role of social influence. Since social factors influence the initiation and maintenance of drug use in humans, it is important to include these factors in preclinical animal models. The current study examined the effects of the presence of a social partner on responding for sucrose pellets under various motivational conditions, as well as on d-amphetamine (AMPH) self-administration. Rats were trained to lever press for either sucrose pellets or AMPH (0.01 or 0.1 mg/kg/infusion unit dose). Following response stability, a novel same-sex conspecific was presented in an adjacent compartment separated by a clear Plexiglas wall, and responding for sucrose or AMPH reward was measured. Rats were allowed to restabilize, and were subsequently given an additional partner presentation. Presence of the social partner increased responding only during the first partner pairing in the AMPH 0.1 mg/kg/infusion unit dose, whereas inhibition of responding was observed during the first partner pairing during access to the 0.01 mg/kg/infusion unit dose. Under free feed conditions, inhibition of sucrose pellet responding was observed in the presence of the social partner, but this effect was attenuated under food restriction. In contrast, the results demonstrate social facilitation of AMPH self-administration at a high unit dose, thus extending the influence of social factors to an operant conditioning task. This model of social facilitation may have important implications as a preclinical model of social influence on drug abuse.
A priority tandem queue with no intermediate buffer

Priority queues are important in modelling and analysis of manufacturing systems, and computer and communication networks. In this paper, a priority tandem queueing system with two stations in series is studied. There is no intermediate buffer between the two stations, and the lack of buffers may cause blocking at the first station. K types of customers arrive at the system according to Poisson processes. The expected delay in the system for each type of customer is obtained when all the customers have the same service time distribution at the second station. Two cases are studied in detail when service times are either all exponentially distributed or all deterministic.
On the analysis of blood flow.

Abstract In this paper the theory of micropolar fluids with stretch is used to analyze blood flow in comparatively small arteries, say 100 μ dia. Physically micropolar fluids with stretch can provide a mathematical model to represent blood with its deformable substructure, since not only the independent rotation of red cells but also the flexibility of the cells are taken into account by the stretch or compression of the particles in plasma. No-slip conditions are assumed for the boundary conditions of the velocity, but the vorticity and the stretch of cells are not required to vanish at the boundaries. Exact solutions to the system of governing equations are given in a simple closed form. The explicit expressions of the velocity, microrotation velocity, microstretch are obtained. The results presented graphically are quite encouraging.
DNA-dependent-DNA-polymerase: Possible limiting influence on cell reproduction during viral leukemogenesis

Evidence is presented that during viral leukemogenesis spleen cell nuclei show an increase in labelling index and mean grain count, that is not accompanied by any changes in the nuclear level of DNA-polymerase-α. It is suggested that polymerase production remains under the control of the normal cell mechanisms and the virus may affect cell proliferation by altering the primer-template levels.
Zur Struktur von Brückenkopfderivaten des Homoadamantans

Homoadamantan-1-ol (14) wurde ausgehend von 5-Hydroxy-2-adamantanon (13) durch Ringerweiterung mit Diazomethan und Entfernung der Carbonylgruppe auf eindeutige Weise dargestellt. Die Struktur der Homoadamantan-1- carbonsaure (5), die aus 1 unter Koch-Haaf-Bedingungen nach langer Reaktionszeit erhalten wurde, konnte durch Abbau zum gleichen Alkohol 14 bestatigt werden. 13C-NMR-Spektren unterstutzen die Struktur zuordnung der 1- und 3-Homoadamantane. Das 3-Homoadamantyl-Kation (16) ist stabiler als das 1-Kation 17, aber Substitutenten sind in der 1-Position wegen differentieller sterischer Effekte der benachbarten Methylengruppen stabiler als in der 3-Position. Dies wird durch Computerrechnungen verschiedener Konformationen bestatigt. Bridgehead Homoadamantane Derivatives. Structural Evidence Homoadamantan-1-ol (14) was synthesized unambiguously from 5-hydroxy-2-adamantanone (13) by diazomethane ring enlargement followed by removal of the carbonyl group. The structure of homoadamantane-1-carboxylic acid (5), obtained from 1 under Koch-Haaf conditions and long reaction times, was confirmed by degradation to the same alcohol, 14. 13C.n.m.r. spectra provide further support for 1- and 3-homoadamantane structural assignments. The 3-homoadamantyl cation (16) is more stable than the 1-cation 17, but substituents are more stable at the 1- rather than at the 3-position due to differential steric effects of the adjacent methylene groups. Computer conformational analysis calculations confirm this conclusion.
Portable mercury sensor for tap water using surface plasmon resonance of immobilized gold nanorods.

Abstract The surface plasmon resonance of surface immobilized gold nanorods (Au NRs) was used to quantify mercury in tap water. Glass substrates were chemically functionalized with (3-mercaptopropyl)trimethoxysilane, which chemically bound the nanorods to produce a portable and sensitive mercury sensor. The analytical capabilities of the sensor were measured using micromolar mercury concentrations. Since the analytical response was dependent upon number of nanorods present, the limit of detection was 2.28×10−19 M mercury per nanorod. The possibility to using glass substrates with immobilized Au NRs is a significant step towards the analysis of mercury in tap water flows at this low concentration level.
Magnetic excitations of Co2 dimer

Abstract The electronic and geometrical structure of the ground and excited states of Co 2 and Co 2 − has been calculated using the density functional theory with two generalized gradient approximations for the exchange-correlation potential. The computed electron affinity of Co 2 ( 5 Δ g ) is in good agreement with experiment. For each permitted spin multiplicity, Co 2 possesses several states having close bond lengths and/or total energies. It is found that Co 2 possesses an antiferromagnetic singlet state which is inaccessible by excitations from the triplet states but could be reached through magnetic de-excitations.
Observations about Objective and Subjective Ocular Torsion

Objective To investigate the relationship between objective and subjective torsion in patients with cyclovertical strabismus and determine whether objective torsion differs according to which eye is fixing. Design A prospective evaluation of tests of objective and subjective torsion. Participants Thirty-six patients with various types of cyclovertical strabismus. Methods Subjective torsion was assessed with the double Maddox rod, and objective torsion was graded in a masked manner from fundus photographs. Main Outcome Measures Quantification of objective or subjective torsion. Results Objective torsion was the same regardless of which eye was used for fixation. However, after prolonged occlusion of the nonaffected eye, there was often an increase in objective torsion in the nonaffected eye. Subjective torsion typically was absent in patients with objective torsion if they did not have bifoveal fusion but was similar to objective torsion in patients with bifoveal fusional potential. Conclusions Assessment of objective and subjective torsion are each important but play separate roles in the evaluation of cyclovertical strabismus. There is no immediate torsional motor shift when fixation switches from the nonaffected to the affected eye. However, prolonged fixation of the affected eye may possibly result in a motor torsional change in the nonaffected eye in some patients. Financial Disclosure(s) The author(s) have no proprietary or commercial interest in any materials discussed in this article.
Arnold-Chiari malformation type I and sleep-disordered breathing: an uncommon manifestation of an important pediatric problem

A case review of a healthy 3-year-old toddler with a chief complaint of sleep-disordered breathing is presented. The child underwent a pneumogram sleep study with significant abnormal findings. Magnetic resonance imaging led to a diagnosis of Arnold-Chiari type I malformation and the need for posterior fossa decompression. The child has been monitored, and 1 year postoperatively, her sleep apnea has resolved and day-time function and development remain normal. Definitions of the different types of Arnold-Chiari malformation are discussed, with sleep apnea presenting as the only symptom. The importance of a sleep history as part of the practitioner's pediatric assessment is explored.
Z‐BAG: A CLASSIFICATION ENSEMBLE SYSTEM WITH POSTERIOR PROBABILISTIC OUTPUTS

Ensemble systems improve the generalization of single classifiers by aggregating the prediction of a set of base classifiers. Assessing classification reliability (posterior probability) is crucial in a number of applications, such as biomedical and diagnosis applications, where the cost of a misclassified input vector can be unacceptable high. Available methods are limited to either calibrate the posterior probability on an aggregated decision value or obtain a posterior probability for each base classifier and aggregate the result. We propose a method that takes advantage of the distribution of the decision values from the base classifiers to summarize a statistic which is subsequently used to generate the posterior probability. Three approaches are considered to fit the probabilistic output to the statistic: the standard Gaussian CDF, isotonic regression, and linear logistic. Even though this study focuses on a bagged support vector machine ensemble (Z-bag), our approach is not limited by the aggregation method selected, the choice of base classifiers, nor the statistic used. Performance is assessed on one artificial and 12 real-world data sets from the UCI Machine Learning Repository. Our approach achieves comparable or better generalization on accuracy and posterior estimation to existing ensemble calibration methods although lowering computational cost.
Cell death of motoneurons in the chick embryo spinal cord. VII. The survival of brachial motoneurons in dystrophic chickens

Abstract Motoneurons in the brachial lateral motor column (LMC) of the chicken were evaluated quantitatively from embryonic day (E) 6 to 3 weeks posthatching. Embryos from the dystrophic line 413 and the control line 412 were both found to have an extensive, naturally occurring loss of motoneurons between E6 and E16. The numerical extent of this loss was similar in both lines and amounted to approximately 50% of the original population that was present on E6. At no time during development was there a significant numerical difference in motoneurons between the dystrophic and control chickens. Neither the nuclear diameter, an index of cell size, nor the number of nucleoli per cell was found to differ between the two lines. Finally, treatment of embryos from E6 to E10 with a curare regimen sufficient to induce a sustained paralysis resulted in a quantitatively similar reduction in naturally occurring neuron death in both the dystrophic and control lines. Avian muscular dystrophy is not associated with an alteration in motoneuron survival. An experimental perturbation of neuromuscular interactions by chronic treatment with curare does not differentially affect motoneuron survival in control and dystrophic chickens.
Toward establishing trust in adaptive agents

As adaptive agents become more complex and take increasing autonomy in their user's lives, it becomes more important for users to trust and understand these agents. Little work has been done, however, to study what factors influence the level of trust users are willing to place in these agents. Without trust in the actions and results produced by these agents, their use and adoption as trusted assistants and partners will be severely limited. We present the results of a study among test users of CALO, one such complex adaptive agent system, to investigate themes surrounding trust and understandability. We identify and discuss eight major themes that significantly impact user trust in complex systems. We further provide guidelines for the design of trustable adaptive agents. Based on our analysis of these results, we conclude that the availability of explanation capabilities in these agents can address the majority of trust concerns identified by users.
Strain-based sequence variations and structure analysis of murine prostate specific spermine binding protein using mass spectrometry.

Mouse spermine binding protein (SBP) has been characterized using mass spectrometry, including its localization within the prostate, sequence verification, and its posttranslational modifications. MALDI (matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization) mass spectrometry was employed for localization of proteins expressed by different lobes of the mouse prostate obtained after tissue blotting on a polyethylene membrane. The mass spectra showed complex protein profiles that were different for each lobe of the prostate. The prostate-specific spermine binding protein (SBP), primarily identified by its in-source decay fragment ion signals, was found predominantly expressed by the ventral lobe of the prostate. The MALDI in-source decay measurements combined with nanoESI (nanoelectrospay ionization) MS/MS measurements obtained after specific proteolysis of SBP, allowed the exact positioning of a single N-linked carbohydrate group, and the identification of a pyroglutamate residue at the sequence N-terminus. The N-li...
An investigation of research self-efficacy beliefs and research productivity among faculty members at an emerging research university in the USA

The purposes of this study are to add to the existing knowledge base on research self-efficacy beliefs of faculty members and their influence on research productivity, and to inform higher education administrators about the relationship between research self-efficacy beliefs and research productivity. A theoretical framework of social cognitive theory underpins the study in which 109 faculty members completed the Research Self-Efficacy Inventory and Research Productivity Index. Quantitative analysis indicated that there is a significant but small correlation between research self-efficacy and productivity.
Coagulation in liver toxicity and disease: Role of hepatocyte tissue factor

The liver is the primary source of a number of circulating coagulation factors, and acute liver injury and chronic liver disease are each associated with alterations in blood coagulation. Current views of the connection between liver injury and coagulation extend beyond the impact of liver disease on synthesis of coagulation factors to include a role for coagulation factor activity in the initiation and progression of liver disease. Mechanisms of coagulation initiation in liver disease are not completely understood. Compared to other tissues, liver expresses very low levels of tissue factor (TF). Recent studies indicate that expression of TF by hepatocytes comprises the majority of liver procoagulant activity, and that hepatocyte TF activates coagulation induced by liver injury. This review will briefly cover the expression and regulation of TF by hepatocytes, the role of TF in coagulation triggered by liver toxicity, and the contribution of coagulation activity to the progression of liver disease.
Isolation and sequences of cDNA clones for cytosolic and organellar hsp70 species in Eimeria spp.

Heat-shock protein (hsp) are a large and ubiquitous family of polypeptides which have been well conserved in evolution and which have a number of cellular roles [1,2]. They are known to ‘chaperone’ the transport, folding and assembly of precursor proteins [3-51. Hsp located in the cytoplasm are believed to be closely involved in the biosynthesis, folding and secretion of proteins [6]. There is also a distinct subset of hsp localised in the mitochondrion which bind to incoming unfolded precursor proteins and drive the movement and refolding of these preproteins in the matrix space [5,7-lo]. The synthesis of hsp is increased when the cell is subjected to adverse conditions such as an elevation or reduction in ambient temperature and it is thought that they protect the cell against such stress [l]. Parasites
How sponsorships work: the sponsorship engagement model.

Prior sponsorship research has focused almost entirely upon accurate recall and recognition of sponsors of events. This emphasis on awareness belies the fact that the primary sponsors of national and international events already possess high brand recognition and instead seek higher level communication goals (preference and retention) from sponsorships. Audience data from two studies (an American football match and a 3-day motorsports event) demonstrate the psychological processes by which audiences are engaged through sponsorship activation. Importantly, this research conceptualizes and measures the activation construct and illustrates subsequent effects on brand concreteness, brand attributions, and brand personality. These three factors, in turn, enhance the sponsoring brand’s distinctiveness and lead to positive behavioral responses favorable to the sponsor.
Alternating Slant Mode of the Crack Propagation in Ductile Flat Plates

Cracks in flat plates are often found to be about 45° to the plate plane for some metals and alloys. There are two identical 45° directions to the plate plane and the choice of crack direction seems to be random. Experiments have shown that, for large flat panels, the long ductile crack propagation exhibits a regular alternating pattern, i.e. the crack switches to the other direction after propagates some distance regularly. In this paper, a numerical examination of the details of the formation of the alternating crack pattern is presented. Relevant material parameters and their influencing factors to the alternating behavior of cracks are discussed.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Do ATP-sensitive potassium channels play a role in myocardial stunning?

The majority of data suggest that activation of KATP channels by ischemia or by selective KATP channel openers may have therapeutic promise in the treatment of patients during or following a variety of procedures such as percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty, thrombolysis, or coronary artery bypass surgery in which impaired regional or global left ventricular function may be the result. Obviously, well-controlled clinical trials are needed to substantiate or refute these theoretical claims as to the importance of KATP channels in myocardial stunning (3).
Presence in chicken tibialis anterior and extensor digitorum longus muscle spindles of reactive and unreactive intrafusal fibers after incubation with monoclonal antibodies against myosin heavy chains

Cross and longitudinal sections from the encapsulated portions of chicken tibialis anterior and extensor digitorum longus muscle spindles were examined to determine whether their intrafusal fibers were a structurally homogeneous or heterogeneous population. The techniques used were the histochemical actomyosin (mATPase) reaction, and fluorescence immunohistochemistry employing two monoclonal antibodies, CA-83 and CCM-52, that are specific for myosin heavy chains. After incubation with antibody CCM-52, intrafusal fibers fluoresced either strongly or weakly to moderately. Antibody CA-83 was even more selective. In addition to identifying the strongly reactive category, it clearly separated the remaining fibers into unreactive and moderately reactive groups. As a whole, after incubation for mATPase, pH 9.6 preincubation, unreactive fibers stained darker than strongly reactive fibers. Moreover, the cross-sectional area of the unreactive fibers was significantly larger than that of the strongly reactive fibers. In the average-size muscle spindle with six intrafusal fibers, there were four unreactive fibers and two strongly reactive fibers. In about one-third of the receptors examined, one moderately reactive fiber was present. Taken together, the data indicate that intrafusal fibers of chicken tibialis anterior and extensor digitorum longus muscles are not structurally homogeneous. The observed variations can be better explained in terms of different fiber types than of continuous gradients within one type of fiber.
Lagrangian approach to non-linear wave interactions in a warm plasma

In this paper, the coupled-mode equations and coupling coefficients for three-wave interaction are derived by a Lagrangian approach for a general medium. A derivation of the Low Lagrangian for a warm plasma is then given, which avoids certain problems associated with the original analysis. An application of the Lagrangian method is made to interaction between collinearly-propagating electrostatic waves, and a coupling coefficient is derived which agrees with a previous result obtained by direct expansion of the non-linear equations. The paper serves primarily to present and demonstrate a conceptually useful and efficient theoretical approach to non-linear wave interactions.
Inward remodeling of resistance arteries requires reactive oxygen species-dependent activation of matrix metalloproteinases.

Inward eutrophic remodeling is the most prevalent structural change of resistance arteries in hypertension. Sympathetic and angiotensin (ANG)-induced vasoconstriction has been associated with hypertension and with the production of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and ROS. Therefore, we hypothesize that prolonged exposure to norepinephrine (NE) and ANG II induces arteriolar inward remodeling dependent on the activation of MMPs and the production of ROS. This hypothesis was tested on rat cremaster arterioles that were isolated, cannulated, pressurized, and exposed to either NE (10−5.5 mol/l) + ANG II (10−7 mol/l) or vehicle (control) for 4 h. The prolonged exposure to NE + ANG II induced inward remodeling, as evidenced by the reduced maximal arteriolar passive diameter observed after versus before exposure to the vasoconstrictor agonists. NE + ANG II also increased the arteriolar expression and activity of MMP-2 and the production of ROS as determined, respectively, by real-time RT-PCR, gel and in situ zymography, and the use of ROS-sensitive dyes with multiphoton microscopy. Inhibition of MMP activation (with GM-6001) or ROS production (with apocynin or tempol) prevented the NE + ANG II-induced inward remodeling. Inhibition of ROS production prevented the activation of MMPs and the remodeling process, whereas inhibition of MMP activation did not affect ROS production. These results indicate that prolonged stimulation of resistance arterioles with NE + ANG II induces a ROS-dependent activation of MMPs necessary for the development of arteriolar inward remodeling. These mechanisms may contribute to the structural narrowing of resistance vessels in hypertension.
Texture evolution in nanocrystalline iron films deposited using biased magnetron sputtering

Fe thin films were deposited on sodium chloride (NaCl) substrates using magnetron sputtering to investigate means of texture control in free standing metal films. The Fe thin films were studied using transmission electron microscopy equipped with automated crystallographic orientation microscopy. Using this technique, the microstructure of each film was characterized in order to elucidate the effects of altering deposition parameters. The natural tendency for Fe films grown on (100) NaCl is to form a randomly oriented nanocrystalline microstructure. By careful selection of substrate and deposition conditions, it is possible to drive the texture of the film toward a single (100) orientation while retaining the nanocrystalline microstructure.
On the interaction of the active site of α-chymotrypsin with chromophores: Proflavin binding and enzyme conformation during catalysis

The acridine dye, proflavin, binds firmly to α -chymotrypsin. This binding alters the visible absorption spectrum of the dye. Evidence is presented that the dye binding is stoichiometric with the number of catalytically active sites. The evidence is as follows. (1) Spectrophotometric measurements of adsorption isotherms are consistent with a value of 1·0 adsorption sites/active site. (2) Competitive inhibition of specific substrate reaction occurs in the presence of dye. The enzyme-competitive inhibitor dissociation constant is the same as the dissociation constant determined (in the absence of substrate) from the adsorption isotherms. (3) Stoichiometric titration of the active site with an acylating reagent completely abolishes the dye binding site; removal of the acyl blocking group completely restores the binding site. Non-stereospecific acylating agents can react with the active site—dye complex, but the resultant acylated enzyme cannot bind dye. This finding is presented as a strong argument for a conformational change at the site during catalysis. The change in visible absorption spectrum between dye in water and dye in enzyme site is in accord with the supposed hydrophobic (non-polar) nature of the site. Due to this large change in light absorption at select wavelengths, the dye can be used as a quantitative indicator of the number of otherwise non-complexed catalytic sites, and hence as a tool for the measurement of equilibrium and kinetic (transient) interactions with inhibitors and substrates. Some examples are illustrated.
The superprism effect in a metal-clad terahertz photonic crystal slab

We demonstrate the superprism effect in a photonic crystal slab at terahertz frequencies. The observed angular dispersion cannot be explained unless the finite slab thickness and its metal cladding boundary conditions are taken into account.
Estimation of Milling Forces From Compliant Sensors Using a Harmonic Force Model and Kalman Filter

Force transducers such as the piezoelectric Kistler dynamometer and the wireless strain gage Smart Tool are used to monitor the cutting force during CNC machining. Due to sensor dynamics, there are differences between the actual cutting force and the measured force, characterized by phase delay and additional vibrations in the cutting profile. In this work, actual cutting forces are estimated from the measured sensor data using a Kalman filter. Since cutting forces are composed of harmonics of the tooth passing frequency and runout frequency, both a sensor dynamic model and harmonic cutting force model are included in the Kalman filter model in order to improve performance of the filter. The harmonic computations of the measured cutting force are used to self-tune the Kalman filter. Comparisons between the measured and estimated force show the ability of the Kalman filter to reduce sensor vibration and noise with no phase delay.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Do patients' perceptions of their counselors influence outcomes of drug treatment?

This prospective longitudinal study examined the influence of patients' perceptions of their counselors on their lengths of stay in treatment and subsequent treatment outcomes. Patients (N = 511) were recruited from 19 substance abuse treatment programs in Los Angeles County. While in treatment, patients rated their counselors on 14 aspects (e.g., empathy, directiveness); 1 year later they were interviewed for follow-up outcomes. Multiple regression analyses were conducted using patients' ratings of their counselors to assess the impact of these ratings on treatment retention and follow-up outcomes (i.e., severity of alcohol use, drug use, and psychiatric status as measured by the Addiction Severity Index). Results revealed that patients' positive perceptions of their counselors were significantly associated with a longer length of stay in treatment for the outpatient drug free/day treatment and residential treatment subsamples. Patients' positive perceptions were also significantly associated with better psychiatric functioning at follow-up, but had a limited relationship to severity of alcohol use and no relation to severity of drug use.
Characterization of Tissue Birefringence with a High Speed Polarization Sensitive OCT System

The design and implementation of a polarization sensitive OCT system is described. An iterative algorithm is used to calculate the Jones matrix of the sample. The performance of the system is evaluated with muscle samples.
Effects of magnesium deficiency on duodenal and ileal magnesium absorption and secretion

Intestinal adaptation by the growing rat to a low-magnesium diet was studied byin situ perfusion of duodenum and ileumin vivo. Rats were fed diets containing either 0.066 or 0.002% Mg for 3 weeks. Magnesium-restricted rats became hypomagnesemic and hypercalcemic. Net magnesium secretion was studied by perfusing an initially magnesium-free saline solution; secretion was higher in duodenum than in ileum, and decreased significantly in the duodenum in response to magnesium restriction. Net magnesium absorption studied by intraluminal perfusion of 2.5 mM magnesium in saline was greater in duodenum than ileum in rats taking a low-magnesium diet, but duodenal and ileal absorption did not differ in animals taking the normal magnesium diet. Absorption did not adapt significantly to magnesium restriction in either segment. Adaptation of small-intestinal magnesium transport to a low magnesium diet is minimal, consisting mainly of reduced duodenal magnesium secretion.
A heterogeneous finite element method in diffusion theory

Abstract A new Heterogeneous Finite Element Method (HFEM) is presented, which does not require prior assembly-level homogenization and which accounts for the leakage effect. The HFEM is developed in diffusion theory. The method is a Lagrange Finite Element Method, that uses basis functions that include fine mesh detail. The elementary basis functions are generated from fixed-boundary-flux fine mesh heterogeneous assembly calculations. The FEM equations are generated using a Galerkin scheme derived from a variational principle. The method is tested on three two-dimensional configurations typical of Boiling Water Reactors, and is shown to be as accurate as the combination Assembly Homogenization—Nodal Method for low-leakage cores and significantly more accurate than the mentioned combination for high-leakage cores
Partial identification with missing data: concepts and findings

The traditional way to cope with missing data problems has been to combine the available data with assumptions strong enough to point-identify the probability distribution describing a population. However, such assumptions often are not well motivated. An alternative approach is to first determine what may be inferred using the empirical evidence alone and then study the identifying power of credible assumptions. The generic result is that one may partially identify the probability distribution of interest: an identification region gives the set of distributions generated by combining the available data with all possible distributions of missing data. This expository article collects findings on partial identification with missing data. The focus is on identification of means, quantiles, and other parameters that respect stochastic dominance. It is shown how distributional assumptions using instrumental variables shrink the identification regions for these parameters. Findings are given on conditional prediction with missing data on outcomes or covariates.
Contraception Update: Implantable and Injectable Methods

Two new progestin-only contraceptive methods--levonorgestrel subdermal implants and Depo-Provera injection--have the potential to overcome adolescents traditional poor compliance with family planning methods. Both methods provide safe highly effective reversible fertility control but require virtually no ongoing patient compliance. The levonorgestrel implants provide continuous contraception for up to five years and have a failure rate under 1%. The primary side effect is an alteration in menstrual patterns: prolonged bleeding in 40% irregular bleeding in 38% intermenstrual spotting in 32% more frequent bleeding in 16% and amenorrhea in 12%. An average weight gain of five pounds over the five-year period of use is expectable given the appetite stimulation associated with progestins. Depo-Provera injected every three months has a failure rate of 0.1-0.7% in the first year of use. Amenorrhea is the most commonly reported menstrual side effect. Although both methods are highly effective in preventing pregnancy they confer no protection against sexually transmitted diseases; thus adolescent acceptors should be counseled to use condoms concomitantly.
Remote visualization of large datasets with MIDAS and ParaViewWeb

In the recent years, the scientific community has been focusing on the management and dissemination of datasets. Challenged by the rapid growth in the number and size of scientific data and supported by new governmental policies, data sharing has become a necessary step in scientific discovery. In parallel, publishing companies have shifted their business to provide not only publications but also associated datasets to their readers. In fact, the publishing industry has been investigating ways to disseminate datasets and more importantly, to present this data to readers in a meaningful manner. In this paper, we present a combination of two leading technologies which allows for online exploration and visualization of scientific datasets. We have combined a digital archiving system, MIDAS, with an online parallel visualization framework, ParaViewWeb. The system has been deployed at several organizations and has been proven to facilitate knowledge dissemination across scientific teams.