cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Names as Tokens and Names as Tools

After presenting a variety of arguments in support of the idea that ordinary names are indexical, I respond to John Perry's recent arguments against the indexicality of names. I conclude by indicating some connections between the theory of names defended here and Wittgenstein's observations on naming, and suggest that the latter may have been misconstrued in the literature.
Protein Kinase A Phosphorylation of the Ryanodine Receptor Does Not Affect Calcium Sparks in Mouse Ventricular Myocytes

Ryanodine receptor (RyR) phosphorylation by protein kinase A (PKA) may be important in modulating resting sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ release, especially in heart failure. However, clear cellular data on PKA-dependent modulation of cardiac RyRs is limited because of difficulty in distinguishing between PKA effects on RyR, phospholamban (PLB), and Ca2+ current. To clarify this, we measured resting Ca2+ sparks in streptolysin-O permeabilized ventricular myocytes from wild-type (WT) and PLB knockout (PLB-KO) mice and transgenic mice expressing only double-mutant PLB (PLB-DM) that lacks the regulatory phosphorylation sites (S16A/T17A). In WT myocytes, cAMP dramatically increased Ca2+ spark frequency (CaSpF) by 2- and 3-fold when [Ca2+] was clamped at 50 and 10 nmol/L (and the SR Ca2+ content also rose by 40% and 50%). However, in PLB-KO and PLB-DM, neither CaSpF nor SR Ca2+ load was changed by the addition of 10 micromol/L cAMP (even with phosphatase inhibition). PKA activation also increased Ca2+ spark amplitude, duration, and width in WT, but not in PLB-KO or PLB-DM. RyR phosphorylation was confirmed by measurements of 32P incorporation on immunoprecipitated RyR. In intact resting myocytes, PKA activation increased CaSpF 2.8-fold in WT, but not in PLB-KO, confirming results in permeabilized myocytes. We conclude that the PKA-dependent increase in myocyte CaSpF and size is entirely attributable to PLB phosphorylation and consequent enhanced SR Ca2+ load. PKA does not seem to have any appreciable effect on resting RyR function in these ventricular myocytes. Moreover, the data provide compelling evidence that elevated intra-SR [Ca2+] increases RyR gating independent of cytosolic [Ca2+] (which was clamped).
The available state: Problems of reform

(1979). The available state: Problems of reform. West European Politics: Vol. 2, Italy in Transition: Conflict and Consensus, pp. 149-165.
Electrochemical and structural characterization of carbon-supported Pt-Pd bimetallic electrocatalysts prepared by electroless deposition

Abstract Electrochemical and structural characteristics of various Pt–Pd/C bimetallic catalysts prepared by electroless deposition (ED) methods have been investigated. Structural analysis was conducted by X-ray diffraction spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning transmission electron microscopy, and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Monometallic Pt or Pd particles were not detected by EDS, indicating the ED methodology formed only bimetallic particles. The size of the Pt–Pd bimetallic particles was smaller than those of a commercially available Pt/C catalyst. The morphology of the Pt on Pd/C catalysts was identified and corresponded to Pd particles partially encapsulated by Pt. The electrochemical characteristics of the lowest Pd loading catalyst (7.0% Pt on 0.5% Pd/C) for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) have been investigated by the rotating ring disk electrode technique. The electrochemical activity was equal or lower than the commercially available Pt/C catalyst; however, the amount of hydrogen peroxide observed at the ring was reduced by the Pd, suggesting that such a catalyst has the potential to decrease ionomer degradation in applications. The Pt on Pd/C catalysts also show a higher tolerance to ripening induced by potential cycling. Therefore, catalyst suitability cannot be judged solely by its initial performance; information related to specific degradation mechanisms is also needed for a more complete assessment.
Working Capital Management and Shareholders’ Wealth

We provide the first empirical study of the relationship between corporate working capital management and shareholders' wealth. Examining US corporations from 1990 through 2006, we find evidence that: the incremental dollar invested in net operating working capital is worth less than the incremental dollar held in cash for the average firm; the valuation of the incremental dollar invested in net operating working capital is significantly influenced by a firm's future sales expectations, its debt load, its financial constraints, and its bankruptcy risk; and the value of the incremental dollar extended in credit to one's customers has a greater effect on shareholders' wealth than the incremental dollar invested in inventories for the average firm. Copyright 2013, Oxford University Press.
SPECTRAL MOMENTS AND WALKS FOR LARGE CARBON CAGE CLUSTERS

Spectral moments and walks for two forms of the C60 cluster (football form and hand form) as well as a form of C120 cluster are obtained. It is shown that spectral moments and other topological characteristics of these clusters can be readily obtained using vectorized computer codes.
Isothermal Fatigue of 62Sn-36Pb-2Ag Solder

This paper discusses the effects of the most important variables during isothermal fatigue such as strain range, ramp time, tensile and compressive hold times, and temperature on fatigue life of near-eutectic 62Sn-36Pb-2Ag solder at strain ranges below 3.0%. The Coffin-Manson relation does not hold for 62Sn-36Pb-2Ag solder below 1% strain range. Decreasing frequency below 10-2 in no-hold tests reduces the number of cycles to failure. Tensile hold time or compressive hold time alone in the cycle dramatically reduce the number of cycles to failure. Increase of hold time over a few minutes leads to saturation of Nf. Combined tensile and compressive hold times affect the fatigue life of this solder less than either tensile or compressive hold alone. The effect of hold times on fatigue life is much stronger than the effect of ramp time. Practically no ramp time effect was observed in tests with tensile hold times. Very little effect of temperature over the range 25 to 80°C on fatigue life of 62Sn-36Pb-2Ag solder was observed when tested at total strain range of 1%.
Temporal stability of acute stressor-induced changes in cellular immunity.

Abstract This study examined the temporal stability of enumerative immune responses to acute psychosocial stress. Lymphocyte subsets were measured in 24 healthy male subjects at rest and following a speaking Stressor on two occasions approximately six weeks apart. The speaking task caused significant increases in T-suppressor/cytotoxic cells, natural killer cells, T-cells, and total WBC and decreases in the T-helper/suppressor ratio. Baseline test-retest correlation's were statistically significant for all variables ( r values = 0.40-0.90). With two exceptions (T-cells and T-suppressor/cytotoxic cells), speaking task values (absolute reactivity scores) were also statistically significant ( r values = 0.48-0.92). Baseline adjusted test-retest correlations were however generally less reliable, with only natural killer cells ( r values > 0.40), the T-helper/suppressor ratio ( r = 0.60), and total WBC ( r = 0.48) showing statistical significance. The findings suggest that certain but not all cellular immune responses to acute stress are moderately stable over time.
Immune activation genes in inflammatory bowel disease

Abstract Background: Inflammatory bowel disease is associated with enhanced activation of T cells, but the genes responsible for this state are not well characterized. Methods: T-cell activation genes were studied in peripheral blood and intestinal mucosal mononuclear cells of control, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis patients. Results: In all groups the expression of interleukin-2 (IL-2), IL-2 receptor α (IL-2Rα), and IL-2Rβ messenger RNA (mRNA) was significantly higher in intestinal than circulating cells, and it correlated well with protein levels. Both IL-2Rα and IL-2Rβ mRNA were abundant in mucosal cells, suggesting that a substantial number of them displays high affinity IL-2R. This would explain why intestinal cells proliferate more, express more IL-2 transcripts, and secrete more IL-2 than peripheral cells. Inflammatory bowel disease cells produced similar or higher IL-2Rα and IL-2Rβ mRNA than controls but generated significantly lower IL-2 mRNA. Thus, the reported defect of IL-2 activity in Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis is probably related to decreased IL-2 transcription. Crohn's disease intestinal cells had the highest expression of IL-2R gene products. This provides a mechanism for their increased response to IL-2 and supports claims that elevated soluble IL-2Rα serum levels reflect gut T-cell hyperactivity in this disease. Conclusions: These findings underscore the importance of T cells in mucosal immunity and indicate that abnormal T-cell activation is intimately associated to the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease.
Cloning, sequence analysis, and expression of the Flavobacterium pentachlorophenol-4-monooxygenase gene in Escherichia coli.

Abstract The pcpB gene of Flavobacterium sp. strain ATCC 39723 was cloned by using a degenerate primer designed from the N-terminal sequence of the purified enzyme. The nucleotide sequence of pcpB was determined and found to encode an open reading frame of 1,614 nucleotides, yielding a predicted translation product of 538 amino acids, in agreement with the estimated size of the purified protein analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The transcriptional start of pcpB was found to be 80 bp upstream of the translational start, and the transcript was found to be induced in Flavobacterium sp. strain ATCC 39723 by the presence of pentachlorophenol but to be constitutive in the Escherichia coli pcpB clone. DNA hybridizations with genomic DNAs from Arthrobacter sp. strain ATCC 33790 and Pseudomonas sp. strain SR3 revealed a similar-size 3.0-kb EcoRI fragment, whereas there was no positive hybridization with genomic DNA from Rhodococcus chlorophenolicus. Cell extracts from an E. coli pcpB overexpression strain, as well as the whole cells, were proficient in the dechlorination of pentachlorophenol to tetrachlorohydroquinone. Protein data base comparisons of the predicted translation products revealed regions of homology with other microbial monooxygenases, including phenol-2-monooxygenase and tryptophan-2-monooxygenase.
Thrombosis and inflammation in intraportal islet transplantation: a review of pathophysiology and emerging therapeutics.

With the inception of the Edmonton Protocol, intraportal islet transplantation (IPIT) has re-emerged as a promising cell-based therapy for type 1 diabetes. However, current clinical islet transplantation remains limited, in part, by the need to transplant islets from 2–4 donor organs, often through several separate infusions, to reverse diabetes in a single patient. Results from clinical islet transplantation and experimental animal models now indicate that the majority of transplanted islets are destroyed in the immediate post-transplant period, a process largely facilitated by deleterious inflammatory responses triggered by islet-derived procoagulant and proinflammatory mediators. Herein, mechanisms that underlie the pathophysiology of thrombosis and inflammation in IPIT are reviewed, and emerging approaches to improve islet engraftment through attenuation of inflammatory responses are discussed.
Separating the effects of composition and fictive temperature on Al and B coordination in Ca, La, Y aluminosilicate, aluminoborosilicate and aluminoborate glasses

Abstract Glass transition temperatures often change significantly (100's of degrees) as the boron oxide to silica ratio, or the field strength of the modifier oxide, is varied in aluminoborosilicate glasses. At the same time, fictive temperature itself can strongly affect the glass structure, most notably in the coordination environments of the network cations boron and aluminum. The latter are especially significant when proportions of [5]Al (AlO5 groups) and [6]Al (AlO6 groups) are high, as in glasses with high field-strength (small, highly charged) modifier cations. To obtain a clearer picture of how composition and temperature independently control structure, we present new data from differential scanning calorimetric (DSC) and high-field 11B and 27Al NMR on a series of Ca, La, and Y aluminosilicate, aluminoborosilicate and aluminoborate glasses prepared with different cooling rates, and compare results in detail with other recently published data on the same compositional joins. We find that previous, apparently disparate results on effects of temperature on Al coordination are in fact related to B/Si ratios: average Al coordination number increased with increased T in aluminosilicates and low-B aluminoborosilicates, but decreased with increased T in glasses with high B/Si ratios, indicating some interaction of the two network cations. We find that effects of T on boron coordination (always lower at higher T) are consistent with a simple thermodynamic view, but may be difficult to detect in some compositions simply because of relative proportions of species. We confirm as well that in boron-rich aluminoborosilicates, B and Al coordination number decreases with increasing temperature are quantitatively linked when calculated per formula unit, again suggesting a strong coupling, and that Al coordination systematically increases with modifier field strength and B2O3/SiO2 ratio.
How Increasing the Profitability of the Largest Polluters Saves Energy: An Underutilized Environmental Advocacy Strategy

Energy is the basis of nearly all aspects of modern life, and in particular, the American way of life. In fueling this thirst for energy, long ago humans turned to consuming what initially appeared to be a vast energy supply, the Earth’s natural resources. However, current consumption occurs at the staggering rate of 440,000,000,000,000 pounds (220 billion tons) per year. Not only is such a withdrawal from the Earth’s reserves, in and of itself, beyond any rate of replenishment, the manner of consumption further exacerbates other inherent complications. Specifically, such large withdrawals reduce the “account’s” balance and also the system’s ability to replenish and to provide other important services, such as hydrological management and atmospheric and climatic regulation. Unfortunately, “companies (and governments) are...prodigal with ecosystems [because] the value of those services doesn’t appear on the business balance sheet.” This blind-eye approach results in an unaccounted, yearly $33 trillion withdrawal from a public commons. Whether this pretense results from current accounting standards, societal norms, selfishness, or even flat-out greed, such rampant spending cannot continue. Changing behavior in general, and especially that which is so engrained into daily life, is difficult. However, modifying a practice for which the one partaking receives a benefit (free resources) while another bears the cost, is even more difficult. Such is the present situation. Thus, new approaches are needed to attain environmental objectives while yielding benefits to companies and governments exceeding the extracted value they would otherwise freely receive. An extremely viable option involves what this article refers to as Double Green Profits. The article seeks to explain how this phenomenon works by providing examples of its prior use and to show how the United States Parcel Service (USPS) can solve its budgetary predicament by application. Moreover, this paper takes the position that the mechanism is greatly underutilized in environmental advocacy despite its excellent palatability to those otherwise reluctant to change energy consumption behavior. This is the first step in transitioning to “natural capitalism.”
Life Expectancy of Aircraft Under Thermal Flight Conditions

This paper is concerned with certain new structural problems which result from flight of aircraft under variable stress and elevated temperature conditions arising from aerodynamic heating. Since creep is a governing factor in determining life expectancy under elevated temperatures, a review was made of test data under cyclic stress conditions at elevated temperatures. These data indicate that gust loadings under elevated temperature conditions may not materially affect the life expectancy of the aircraft. Furthermore, the total creep under cyclic loading conditions appears to result from the net time spent at a particular stress level. Based on these data, a cumulative creep hypothesis is suggested for use in analysis of life expectancy under variable stress and temperature conditions.
Piezoelectric Materials for Imaging

The purpose of this article is to present the reader with a brief description of those characteristics of piezoelectric materials that directly influence imaging.
Effect of endotoxic shock on skeletal muscle intracellular electrolytes and amino acid transport

Soleus muscle intracellular electrolytes and alpha-aminoisobutyric acid (AIB) uptake and its regulation by insulin were investigated during endotoxic shock in vivo. Fasted rats (90 g) were injected with [14C]AIB (1-10 mg/kg, iv) and Salmonella enteritidis endotoxin (20 mg/kg, iv) or saline and killed 1-5 h later. AIB uptake into muscle was corrected for uptake into extracellular space (measured as insulin distribution in muscle in vivo) and expressed as [AIB]/[AIB] ratios to assess active transport. The maximum level of active AIB cell transport by extracellular endotoxic muscles [3.3 +/- 0.2 (SE)] was lower than control muscles (4.9 +/- 0.3) at the time when plasma insulin concentration in endotoxic rats (16.8 +/- 2.0 uU/ml) was greater than controls (7.9 +/- 1.7 uU/ml). Insulin-stimulated AIB transport was significantly lower in endotoxic muscles (from a basal value of 3.3 +/- 0.2 to 4.4 +/- 0.5, 5.0 +/- 0.3, and 4.9 +/- 0.3 at 125, 250, and 500 mU/kg intravenous insulin, respectively) than in control muscles (from 4.9 +/- 0.3 to 5.7 +/- 0.2, 8.0 +/- 0.4, and 10.8 +/- 0.8). The intracellular electrolyte concentrations in endotoxic soleus muscles ([Na] = 15.87 +/- 0.9, [K] = 145 +/- 1.7, [Cl] = 14.61 +/- 0.9) were substantially altered when compared with control muscles ([Na] = 9.33 +/- 1.1, [K] = 164 +/- 1.5, [Cl] = 4.1 +/- 0.6) 5 h postinjection. The membrane potential, estimated from chloride equilibrium potential was lower in endotoxic muscles (-52.7 +/- 1.6 mV) when compared with control muscles (-89 +/- 3.5 mV).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
A License to Grow: Ending State, Local, and Some Federal Barriers to Innovation and Growth in Key Sectors of the U.S. Economy

This white paper outlines some of the remaining state barriers and a few federal ones and how they prevent disruptive innovations by entrepreneurs and established firms alike that potentially could bring new and more efficient business models to the market. In the case of the legal sector, the barriers we identify not only adversely affect legal innovation, but also impede innovation in other sectors of the economy. Similarly, in health care, pharmaceuticals, K-12 education, the financing of growth businesses, and many consumer services, legal obstructions hinder innovation and the provision of efficient, affordable, high-quality services and products. We conclude by surveying the main options for reducing or eliminating these impediments, proposing, in effect, ways to provide a “license to grow.” Although most of the ideas we list are relevant only to state and local governments, we do not recommend, however tempting it may be, federal preemption as the means to their abolition. Apart from the political difficulty of gaining consensus on a sensible preemption approach in a time of deep partisanship with the Congress, it is not necessary for citizens to look to Washington to solve all problems. This white paper is an extension of the Startup Act in which the Kauffman Foundation outlined ways the federal government can stimulate new company formation and growth, encouraging economic growth across the economy. In a companion to this report, the Foundation also will publish a separate template for state and local “Startup Acts” - in reality, both executive and legislative measures - that would reinforce and amplify the impact of startup-friendly policies at the federal level. This particular white paper focuses primarily on removing state and local impediments to entrepreneurial growth and thus, we hope, will make an important contribution to the public policy debate in its own right. Many of the ideas outlined here also will be included in a summary fashion in the companion Kauffman report on a broader startup agenda for state and local governments. As prior Kauffman research has made clear, new firm formation and growth are critical to job creation and economic growth in general. The persistently high rates of unemployment since the financial crisis of 2007-2008 and the decline in formation rate of new employer firms in recent years make a startup agenda at all levels of government more urgent than ever. Written by the Kauffman Foundation Task Force on Entrepreneurial Growth.
Personality and Conformity, and Sex Differences:

acteristics which are highly correlated with susceptibility to conformity pressures. In the majority of the studies reviewed, the personality measures tapped but one variable which are often open to criticism as to their social desirability content. This study dealt with possible significant but nondirectional relationships among 15 personality variables as measured by Edwards' PPS (3), in which social desirability is minimized, and one measure of conformity. Also investigated were possible sex differences. Fifty Ss, 24 men and 26 women, were randomly selected from the freshman class and tested for conformity with a modified Crutchfield apparatus (4). In groups of four, Ss were seated at one side of a table with panels separating them from each other. In front of each S was a panel of 12 lights (three columns and four rows) and three response buttons. In the center of the table was a proiector and a control panel operated by E. The stimuli, which were projected on a screen in front of the room, were the 18 sets used by Asch (1 ), i.e., each stimulus was made up of three lines of various lengths and a standard with which one line corresponded in length. Ss were told that this was an experiment in visual perception and that their task was to judge which one of the three lines corresponded to the standard. Each S was to judge each set as it appeared and, when his number WAS called, to press one of the three butrons which corresponded to his answer. It was suggested that as each S made his response, the light corresponding to his answer would be ~llum~nated on all four panels. A brief demonstration was given to ensure that Ss understood the instructions. While Ss were led to believe that their panels of lights indicated the responses of each of other Ss, accually each S was in the same situation; lights were controlled by E, who was the only person aware of Ss' actual responses. E's responses for the group followed Asch's procedures in which 12 of the 18 sets could yield conformity pressures, being erroneous estimates by the "group." Of the 45 rank-order correlations berween the measure of conformity and the personality variables for men, women, and for the combined group only three were sratistically significantly different from zero: Aggression (rho = .44) for men, Hererosexuality (rho = -.45) for women, and Autonomy (rho = -.28) for the combined group. However, little can be concluded as these rhos could have occurred by chance. No significant sex differences were observed. It is questioned whether there are significant differences in personality on the PPS and conformity when social desirability is minimized.
FGMs by Sedimentation

Simple sedimentation in organic solvents followed by hot-pressing is used to produce alumina-NiAI functionally graded materials (FGMs). Varying degrees of agglomeration influenced the phase arrangement in the mixed layer(s) producing microstructural variation. We discovered a pronounced structural dependence on NiAl stoichiometry. Slight variations in Al content are known to influence Tdb and these apparently lead to large increases in residual stress. Zirconia - NiA1 FGMs were better able to accorrunodate these levels of residual stress possibly due to accommodation by enhanced tetragonal phase retention. However, these FGMs undergo transformation of the tetragonal phase to the monoclinic fonn, starting from the surface. Finally, variable microstructures result in detectable changes in the stress-strain behavior of alumina-NiAl FGMs.
Fixed Pitch Propeller Design for Electrically Powered Aircraft

Electrically powered aircraft are an emerging area of technical interest. It is important to build rapid synthesis methods to support quantitative systems design. Proper design requires a careful matching of the propulsion system to the airframe; both the thrust profile and the overall efficiency of the propulsion system are of utmost importance because aircraft must generate enough thrust to overcome their own drag. It is crucial to match the propeller to the motor so that the designer may evaluate the propulsion system performance both "on design" and "off design." This paper develops an efficient technique to utilize 2D airfoil test data to simultaneously optimize both "on design" and "off design" propeller performance. It also presents trade studies examining, for a reference airframe, the potential "best match" of motor (brush electrical, brushless electrical and internal combustion engine) to fixed pitch propeller.
Governing Committees and Knowledge Transfers in R&D Alliances

This research departs from the prior alliance governance research by showing that nonequity forms also embed administrative controls, and such controls affect the knowledge transfers between partners. Such administrative controls often take the form of board- like joint committees with well-defined authority over the activities of the alliance. We not only illuminate the administrative dimension of nonequity alliances, but also demonstrate its role in knowledge transfer in alliances. By showing the direct knowledge transfer implications of administrative structures it extends alliance governance research beyond the implications of equity-nonequity dichotomy to consider the wider gamut of governance instruments. Second, this research lends support to the argument that administrative controls are critical for mitigating appropriation hazards.
The Importance of Using Probabilistic Effective Hydraulic Conductivity in Darcy's Law and Groundwater Flow Calculations

The effective saturated hydraulic conductivity is a parameter that relates the average groundwater specific discharge to the average hydraulic gradient. This paper outlines a procedure to calculate the effective saturated hydraulic conductivity in local-scale groundwater flow. Examples are presented in this work.
Determination of lead and cadmium in mudflat by GFAAS with microwave digestion

Objective: To establish a method for determination of lead and cadmium in mudflat by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry with microwave digestion.Methods: The mudflat samples were digested with HNO3-HF.The samples were analyzed by Zeeman GFAAS using NH4H2PO4–Mg(NO3)2 as matrix modifiers.Results: The linear range of the method were 2.0 μg/L~50.0 μg/ml for Pb,and 0.2 μg/L~5.0 μg/L for Cd with the correlation coefficients greater than 0.999.The recoveries were between 90%~103%,both RSDs were less than 5.0%.Conclusion: This method is simple,accurate and sensitive and suitable for determination of lead and cadmium in high salty mudflat.
Diagnosis and Clinical Genetics of Cushing Syndrome in Pediatrics

Endogenous Cushing syndrome (CS) in pediatrics is rare; it may be caused by tumors that produce corticotropin in the pituitary gland or elsewhere, tumors that produce corticotropin-releasing hormone anywhere, and adrenocortical masses that produce cortisol. Adrenocortical cancer is a rare cause of CS in children but should be excluded first. CS in children is often caused by germline or somatic mutations with implications for patient prognosis and for their families. CS should be recognized early in children; otherwise, it can lead to significant morbidity and mortality. Patients with suspected CS should be referred to specialized clinical centers for workup.
A New Experimental Approach to the Study of Mechanical Force in Orthodontics

Orthodontics is based upon the cellular response to biomechanical forces. Unfortunately, however, little is known about the manner in which cells respond to such forces. We have, therefore, devised an experimental model to permit morphologic and metabolic characterization of human cells subjected to a range of cyclic or static mechanical stimuli similar to those which may prevail in orthodontic-orthopedic therapy. This system involves attachment of cells to silicon collagen coated membranes which are then subjected to continuous or cyclic stretching by a motor coupled to a movable supporting frame. Because collagenase is an enzyme likely to play an important role in the ultimate effect of orthodontic forces, we evaluated the impact of biomechanical forces on secretion of this protein in a new experimental model in vitro. We found that cyclic stretching of human fibroblasts over a four day period approximately doubles collagenase production as compared to the control. Continuous stretching, on the other hand, is only 50% as effective in enhancing the enzyme release. In contrast, secretion of the inhibitor of metalloproteinases (collagenase inhibitor) is uneffected by either form of mechanical forces. Thus, the mechanical forces applied upon fibroblasts in this system promote gene expression in favor of matrix degradation. This model, we believe, will offer major insights into the cellular basis of orthodontics.
Regulation of lipid transfer between lipoproteins by an endogenous plasma protein: Selective inhibition among lipoprotein classes

Lipid transfer protein (LTP) remodels plasma lipoproteins by promoting mass transfers of cholesteryl ester (CE) and triglyceride between lipoproteins. We have investigated the capacity of an additional plasma protein, lipid transfer inhibitor protein (LTIP) to modify the functional activity of LTP in a complex mixture of lipoproteins. Transfer assays containing isolated LTP, LTIP, and the three major lipoprotein classes, and assays with intact human plasma supplemented with exogenous LTIP were used. In both assays, the inhibition of CE transfer by LTIP varied markedly depending on the lipoproteins involved and was dependent on LTIP concentration. Inhibition of lipid transfer between a given pair of lipoproteins was similar. However, between lipoprotein pairs the extent of inhibition was very different, varying up to 7-fold. Inhibition followed the order of very low density lipoprotein (VLDL)-low density lipoprotein (LDL) transfers > LDL-high density lipoprotein (HDL) transfers > VLDL-HDL transfers. Consistent with the preferential inhibition of transfer events involving LDL, LTIP was shown by gel filtration studies to associate primarily with LDL in plasma. The addition of LTIP to native plasma stimulated the LTP-mediated efflux of CE from HDL to VLDL; this occurred at the expense of LDL CE depletion. Thus, LTIP alters the pattern of lipid transfer reactions in plasma by uniquely affecting the individual transfer events mediated by LTP. By preferentially diminishing transfer events involving LDL, especially those between VLDL and LDL, LTIP enhances the ability of LTP to remove CE from HDL, and thus alters HDL metabolism.
Luteal phase support with hCG does not improve fecundity rate in human menopausal gonadotropin-stimulated cycles.

The luteal phase of cycles stimulated with human menopausal gonadotropins (hMG) may be characterized by aberrant hormone levels, altered endometrial development, and shortened length. Luteal phase support with supplemental progesterone or hCG has been recommended to help correct these problems and thus improve pregnancy rates, but the efficacy of such regimens is controversial. Therefore, a randomized cross-over study was performed to evaluate the effects of luteal phase hCG administration on pregnancy rates during ovulation induction with hMG. Sixty-seven infertile women were randomly assigned to either group A (N = 33) or group B (N = 34). Non-treatment cycles (no luteal phase support) were alternated with treatment cycles, in which patients received 2500 IU hCG on the third, sixth, and ninth days after the ovulatory dose of 10,000 IU hCG. Patients in group A received supplemental hCG in odd-numbered cycles, whereas group B was given luteal support in even-numbered cycles. The mean number of cycles per patient was 2.2 and 2.3 for groups A and B, respectively. Analysis of 151 cycles revealed a cycle fecundity of 0.15 for 72 hCG-supported cycles, versus 0.13 for 79 nonsupported cycles (P = not significant). Midluteal progesterone levels were significantly higher in supported (45.6 ng/mL) versus unsupported cycles (31.9 ng/mL) (P less than .001). There were no significant differences in the mean peak estradiol levels in hCG-supported versus -unsupported cycles. We conclude that hCG support of the luteal phase is not routinely warranted in hMG-stimulated cycles.
Use of the augmented ejection fraction to select patients with left ventricular dysfunction for coronary revascularization.

Thirty-three patients with angina (31 men and 2 women, age 33 to 68 years, 52 ¯ ), as well as signs and symptoms of severe left ventricular dysfunction, were evaluated for coronary revascularization surgery. All had multiple vessel coronary artery disease and at least one prior myocardial infarction. Cardiac catheterization demonstrated abnormally elevated left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP), low cardiac output, and depressed resting biplane systolic ejection fraction (SEF) ranging from 18 to 45 per cent ( 31 ¯ per cent). To evaluate potential myocardial function, a premature ventricular contraction was introduced during the ventriculogram and the SEF of the postextrasystolic potentiated (PESP) beat calculated and compared to a sinus beat SEF. Patients were separated into two groups based on the increase in SEF: those with >0.10 augmentation (24 patients) and those with <0.10 augmentation (9 patients). Coronary revascularization was carried out with at least two bypass grafts in each patient. The operative mortality in those with more than 0.1 SEF augmentation was 9 per cent (2/24), late mortality rate 5 per cent (1/22), and 20/21 became Class I or II in the follow-up period of 11 to 57 months ( 25 ¯ ). Operative mortality in those with SEF augmentation of less than 0.1 was 3/9 (33 per cent), late mortality rate 1/6, and only 1/5 achieved Class I status during the follow-up period of 10 to 35 months ( 22 ¯ ) postoperatively. These data suggest that significant augmentation of SEF by a premature ventricular contraction is a simple and useful indicator to aid in selection of patients with left ventricular dysfunction for coronary revascularization.
Transmyocardial Laser Revascularization

Transmyocardial laser revascularization (TMR) is a procedure that is in a state of transition. The purpose of this article is to review the historical aspects of TMR. Important nursing aspects of the thoracotomy and percutaneous approaches are detailed. Outcomes related to the surgical procedure are also discussed. Although the exact mechanism of TMR is unknown, the procedure offers an improvement in the quality of life, reduction in antianginal medications, increased exercise tolerance, and a possibility of prolonged life.
Hemodynamic responses to paraventricular nucleus disinhibition with bicuculline in conscious rats

The present study was undertaken to determine the hemodynamic responses associated with stimulation of the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN). Male Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 21) were instrumented with guide cannulas directed bilaterally at the PVN, with an electromagnetic flow probe placed on the ascending aorta and with femoral venous and arterial catheters. Bicuculline methiodide (BMI, 2 mM) was infused bilaterally (100 nl/20 min) into the PVN region before and after treatment with the beta 1-adrenergic antagonist, metoprolol bitartrate (2 mg/kg iv) or the alpha 1-adrenergic receptor antagonist, prazosin hydrochloride (2 mg/kg iv). Infusion of BMI into the PVN increased mean arterial pressure by 17 +/- 2 mmHg, and heart rate rose by 91 +/- 8 beats/min. Cardiac index increased 17 +/- 3%, whereas total peripheral resistance index was not altered significantly. After metoprolol treatment, the mean arterial pressure response to BMI was similar to control (16 +/- 2 mmHg), but the tachycardia was reduced significantly (10 +/- 4 beats/min). In addition, the blood flow response was changed qualitatively. Total peripheral resistance increased 13 +/- 3%, whereas the cardiac index response was abolished (1 +/- 2%). After prazosin treatment, BMI administration into the PVN failed to increase arterial pressure (-1 +/- 4 mmHg). Nevertheless, the BMI infusion was associated with significant hemodynamic effects. Total peripheral resistance index decreased (-24 +/- 6%), whereas cardiac index and stroke volume index increased 34 +/- 8 and 17 +/- 5%, respectively.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
The Nabataean and other Petty Kingdoms of North and Central Arabia

Aside from the South Arabian kingdoms a few petty states evolved during the pre-Islamic period in the northern and central parts of the peninsula. These North Arabian states, like those of the south, drew their strength mainly from commerce and were in no sense militaristic either in their inception or in their development. The earliest among them was the Nabataean kingdom.
Ethics in Higher Education: Using Collective Experiences to Enhance New Professional Training

While ethical standards exist in higher education, they are often vague and do not identify the dilemmas new professionals are likely to encounter on the job. This article highlights results of a qualitative study identifying ethical dilemmas experienced by administrators in the field and compares results to the ethical framework developed by Janosik and associates (2004, 2007). A new dilemma type is identified and recommendations for further research and practice are made.
The Global Positioning System constellation as a space weather monitor: Comparison of electron measurements with Van Allen Probes data

Energetic electron observations in Earth's radiation belts are typically sparse, and multipoint studies often rely on serendipitous conjunctions. This paper establishes the scientific utility of the Combined X-ray Dosimeter (CXD), currently flown on 19 satellites in the Global Positioning System (GPS) constellation, by cross-calibrating energetic electron measurements against data from the Van Allen Probes. By breaking our cross calibration into two parts—one that removes any spectral assumptions from the CXD flux calculation and one that compares the energy spectra—we first validate the modeled instrument response functions, then the calculated electron fluxes. Unlike previous forward modeling of energetic electron spectra, we use a combination of four distributions that together capture a wide range of observed spectral shapes. Moreover, our two-step approach allowed us to identify, and correct for, small systematic offsets between block IIR and IIF satellites. Using the Magnetic Electron Ion Spectrometer and Relativistic Electron-Proton Telescope on Van Allen Probes as a “gold standard,” here we demonstrate that the CXD instruments are well understood. A robust statistical analysis shows that CXD and Van Allen Probes fluxes are similar and the measured fluxes from CXD are typically within a factor of 2 of Van Allen Probes at energies inline image4 MeV.more » Our team present data from 17 CXD-equipped GPS satellites covering the 2015 “St. Patrick's Day” geomagnetic storm to illustrate the scientific applications of such a high data density satellite constellation and therefore demonstrate that the GPS constellation is positioned to enable new insights in inner magnetospheric physics and space weather forecasting.« less
UTI and Faulty Gold Standards.

I read with interest the article by Shaikh et al1 on the association between pyuria and uropathogen type in children being evaluated for urinary tract infection (UTI). Their conclusion differs from our related investigation2 in Pediatrics , in which we concluded that the sensitivity of the urinalysis (UA) has been previously underestimated due to a faulty gold standard, namely, urine cultures that are falsely positive because of contamination and asymptomatic bacteruria (AB). In our sample of young infants with bacteremic UTI, a condition that cannot be explained by contamination or AB, 99.5% of subjects … E-mail: aschroe{at}stanford.edu
Development of GaInP Solar Cells Grown by Hydride Vapor Phase Epitaxy

We demonstrate the growth of homojunction GaInP solar cells by dynamic hydride vapor phase epitaxy for the first time. Simple unpassivated n-on-p structures grown in an inverted configuration with gold back reflectors were analyzed. Short wavelength performance varied strongly with emitter thickness, since collection in the emitter was limited by the lack of surface passivation. Collection in the base increased strongly with decreasing doping density, in the range 1 × 1016 − 5 × 1017 cm−3. Optical modeling indicated that, in our best device, doped ∼1 × 1016 cm−3, almost 94% of photons that passed through the emitter were collected. Modeling also indicated that the majority of collection occurs in the depletion region with this design, suggesting that nonradiative recombination there might limit device performance. In agreement with this observation, the experimental dark J–V curve exhibited an ideality factor near n = 2. Thus, limitation of deep level carrier traps in the material is a path to improved performance. Preliminary experiments indicate that a reduced V/III ratio, which potentially affects the density of these presumed traps, improves cell performance. With reduced V/III ratio, we demonstrate a ∼13% efficient GaInP cell measured under the 1-sun AM1.5G spectrum. This cell had an antireflective coating, but no front surface passivation.
Interacting binding sites of L-specific lactic dehydrogenase of Escherichia, coli

Abstract We have purified a DPNH dependent lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) from Escherichia , coli B that differs markedly from the animal LDH's in many of its chemical and catalytic properties. In this communication we present evidence that this protein, which has an unusually high requirement for pyruvate, is a pyridine nucleotide-linked enzyme. We also describe some unanticipated kinetic properties.
A comparison of first event coronary heart disease rates in two contrasting California populations.

Objectives: To directly evaluate whether a population, many of whom are vegetarian or near vegetarian, does experience less coronary heart disease (CHD). Methods: Two concurrent California observational studies, one with unusual dietary habits, are compared. Similar diagnostic criteria were used in both the Adventist Health Study and the Stanford Five-City Project. Results: Age-standardized rate ratios (Adventist/Stanford study) for first event fatal CHD were 0.59 (95% confidence interval, 0.43-0.80) in men and 0.49 (0.32-0.76) in women. Similar ratios for first event myocardial infarction were 0.60 (0.47-0.78) and 0.46 (0.33-0.65). Ratios are usually much lower at younger ages or when comparisons include only vegetarian Adventists. Conclusion: Lifestyle factors can markedly change the first-event CHD experience of whole populations, and appear to especially protect against premature events.
Quantification of Right Ventricular Size and Function from Contrast-Enhanced Three-Dimensional Echocardiographic Images

Background Three-dimensional (3D) echocardiography directly assesses right ventricular (RV) volumes without geometric assumptions, despite the complex shape of the right ventricle, and accordingly is more accurate and reproducible than the two-dimensional methodology, which is able to measure only surrogate parameters of RV function. Volumetric analysis has been hampered by frequent inability to clearly visualize RV endocardium, especially the RV free wall, in 3D echocardiographic images. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that RV contrast enhancement during 3D echocardiographic imaging would improve the accuracy of RV volume and function analysis. Methods Thirty patients with a wide range of RV size and function and image quality underwent transthoracic 3D echocardiography with and without contrast enhancement and cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging on the same day. RV end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes and ejection fraction were measured from contrast-enhanced and nonenhanced 3D echocardiographic images and compared with cardiovascular magnetic resonance reference values using linear regression and Bland-Altman analyses. Blinded repeated measurements were performed to assess measurement variability. Results RV contrast enhancement was feasible in all patients. RV volumes obtained both with and without contrast enhancement correlated highly with cardiovascular magnetic resonance (end-diastolic volume, r = 0.90 and r = 0.92; end-systolic volume, r = 0.92 and r = 0.94, respectively), but the correlation for ejection fraction was better with contrast ( r = 0.87 vs r = 0.70). Biases were smaller with contrast for all three parameters (end-diastolic volume, −16 ± 23 vs −36 ± 25 mL; end-systolic volume, −10 ± 16 vs −23 ± 18 mL; ejection fraction, −0.7 ± 5.5% vs −2.7 ± 8.1% of the mean measured values), reflecting improved accuracy. Also, measurement reproducibility was improved by contrast enhancement. Conclusions Contrast enhancement improves the visualization of RV endocardial borders, resulting in more accurate and reproducible 3D echocardiographic measurements of RV size and function. This approach may be particularly useful in patients with suboptimal image quality.
Direct Growth of Bacteria in Headspace Vials Allows for Screening of Volatiles by Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry.

Bacterially produced volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can modify growth patterns of eukaryotic hosts and competing/cohabiting microbes. These compounds have been implicated in skin disorders and attraction of biting pests. Current methods to detect and characterize VOCs from microbial cultures can be laborious and low-throughput, making it difficult to understand the behavior of microbial populations. In this work we present an efficient method employing gas chromatography/mass spectrometry with autosampling to characterize VOC profiles from solid-phase bacterial cultures. We compare this method to complementary plate-based assays and measure the effects of growth media and incubation temperature on the VOC profiles from a well-studied Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 system. We observe that P. aeruginosa produces longer chain VOCs, such as 2-undecanone and 2-undecanol in higher amounts at 37 °C than 30 °C. We demonstrate the throughput of this method by studying VOC profiles from a representative collection of skin bacterial isolates under three parallel growth conditions. We observe differential production of various aldehydes and ketones depending on bacterial strain. This generalizable method will support screening of bacterial populations in a variety of research areas.