cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Opposite effects of endogenous peptide-MHC class I on T cell activity in the presence and absence of CD8

Nonstimulatory or endogenous peptide-MHC (pepMHC) presented on the surfaces of APCs, either alone or alongside agonist pepMHC, plays various roles in T cell selection and activation. To examine these properties in more detail, we explored several model systems of TCR and pepMHC ligands with sufficient affinity to be activated in the absence of CD8. The TCRs had a range of affinities for agonist and nonstimulatory ligands and were restricted by MHC class I alleles with different properties. We observed CD8-independent antagonism from TCR-pepMHC interactions with very low affinities (e.g., K(D) = 300 μM). In addition, endogenous peptide-L(d) complexes on APCs antagonized activation of coreceptor (CD8)-negative 2C T cells even by the strong agonist QL9-L(d). In contrast, TCRs m33 and 3D-PYY, restricted by K(b) and D(b), respectively, did not show signs of antagonism by endogenous pepMHC in the absence of CD8. This did not appear to be an inherent difference in the ability of the TCRs to be antagonized, as altered peptide ligands could antagonize each TCR. In the presence of CD8, endogenous pepMHC ligands acted in some cases as coagonists. These results show that endogenous pepMHC molecules exhibit complex behavior in T cells, leading to either reduced activity (e.g., in cases of low coreceptor levels) or enhanced activity (e.g., in presence of coreceptor). The behavior may be influenced by the ability of different TCRs to recognize endogenous pepMHC but also perhaps by the inherent properties of the presenting MHC allele.
A genome-wide association study of direct gestation length in US Holstein and Italian Brown populations.

Summary Direct gestation length influences economically important traits in dairy cattle that are related to birth and peri-natal survival of the calf. The objective of this study was to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that are significantly associated with direct gestation length through a genome-wide association study. Data used in the analysis included 7 308 194 cow gestation lengths from daughters of 4743 United States Holstein sires in the Cooperative Dairy DNA Repository population and 580 157 gestation lengths from 749 sires in the Italian Brown population. Association analysis included 36 768 and 35 082 SNPs spanning all autosomes for Holstein and Brown Swiss, respectively. Multiple shrinkage Bayesian was employed. Estimates of heritability for both populations were moderate, with values of 0.32 (±0.03) and 0.29 (±0.02) for Holstein and Brown Swiss, respectively. A panel of SNPs was identified, which included SNPs that have significant effects on direct gestation length, of which the strongest candidate region is located on chromosome 18. Two regions not previously linked to direct calving ease and calf survival were identified on chromosome 7 and 28, corresponding to regions that contain genes related to embryonic development and foetal development. SNPs were also identified in regions that have been previously mapped for calving difficulty and longevity. This study identifies target regions for the investigation of direct foetal effects, which are a significant factor in determining the ease of calving.
Analysis of the impedance response due to surface states at the semiconductor/solution interface

Electronic surface states at semiconductor/solution interfaces can mediate processes such as trapping and detrapping of majority and minority charge carriers, recombination, or charge transfer to or from the solution. We have calculated the complete impedance response due to these processes using a kinetic approach. Specific cases are discussed and diagnostic parameters for the capacitance and conductance are presented. Experimental results on n-Si(111) in fluoride solutions are used to illustrate the obtained expressions.
Studies of the Energy Requirements of Chickens 1. The Effect of Dietary Energy Level on Growth and Feed Comsumption

Abstract THE energy requirement of growing chicks has been studied in two widely different ways. One method is illustrated by the studies of Mitchell, Card and Hamilton (1931) who estimated the net energy requirements for maintenance and growth from the determination of basal metabolic rate and changes in body composition. Data of this kind have been of limited usefulness because of the lack until relatively recently of net energy values for poultry feedstuffs. The other method was used by Robertson, Miller and Heuser (1948) and Panda and Combs (1950). They studied the relationship between productive (net) energy of the ration and early growth rate to determine the minimum energy level per unit weight of the ration necessary to promote the maximum rate of growth. Both of these groups concluded that the minimum productive energy level required for maximum early growth rate was approximately 800–850 Calories per pound of ration on …
CONICAL SIMILARITY OF SHOCK/BOUNDARY LAYER INTERACTIONS GENERATED BY SWEPT FINS.

A parametric experimental study has been made of the class of 3D shock wave/turbulent boundary layer interactions generated by swept-leading-edge fins. The fin sweepback angles ranged from 0 to 65 deg at angles of attack of 5, 9, and 15 deg. Two equilibrium 2D turbulent boundary layers with a free-stream Mach number of 2.95 and a Reynolds number of 6.3 x 10 to the 7th/m were used as incoming flow conditions. All the resulting interactions were found to possess conical symmetry of surface pressures and skin friction lines beyond an initial inception zone. Further, these interactions revealed a simple similarity based on inviscid shock strength irrespective of fin sweepback or angle of attack.
Effect of the core/shell latex particle interphase on the mechanical behavior of rubber‐toughened poly(methyl methacrylate)

Two- and three-layer composite latex particles were used to prepare rubber-toughened poly(methyl methacrylate) (RT-PMMA). The interfacial thicknesses of the multi-layered particles were varied by using different emulsion polymerization synthesis techniques. The resulting interphases were previously characterized by 13C nuclear magnetic resonance techniques. The poly(divinyl benzene)/poly(butyl acrylate) (PDVB/PBA) interphase thickness was found to be in the range of 5–7 nm. It was also found that the PBA/PMMA interphase thickness could be varied from 5 to 7 nm (batch addition of MMA) to 15 to 17 nm (interphase compatibilized with PMMA macromonomer). The interphase thickness was expected to play an important role in the mechanical behavior of PMMA. The effect of the interphase of two- and three-layer particles on the tensile and fracture behavior of PMMA composites was evaluated. The fracture surfaces were examined by scanning electron microscopy. The two-layer PBA/PMMA particles with a thicker interphase (15–17 nm) exhibited higher KIC values with the PMMA composites compared with PBA/PMMA particles with a thinner interphase (5–7 nm). The three-layer particles were found to be more effective in toughening PMMA compared with the two-layer particles. The differences in toughening behavior are speculated to arise from the morphological effects caused by a thicker interphase, which in turn results in better coverage by the PMMA shell and a more uniform distribution of the toughening particles in the PMMA matrix. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 65:581–593, 1997
Testing the linearity of negative binomial regression models

The negative binomial (NB) is frequently used to model overdispersed Poisson count data. To study the effect of a continuous covariate of interest in an NB model, a flexible procedure is used to model the covariate effect by fixed-knot cubic basis-splines or B-splines with a second-order difference penalty on the adjacent B-spline coefficients to avoid undersmoothing. A penalized likelihood is used to estimate parameters of the model. A penalized likelihood ratio test statistic is constructed for the null hypothesis of the linearity of the continuous covariate effect. When the number of knots is fixed, its limiting null distribution is the distribution of a linear combination of independent chi-squared random variables, each with one degree of freedom. The smoothing parameter value is determined by setting a specified value equal to the asymptotic expectation of the test statistic under the null hypothesis. The power performance of the proposed test is studied with simulation experiments.
Identification of impurities in α-trinitrotoluene by thin-layer chromatography

Abstract A two-dimensional thin-layer chromatography method, capable of separating and identifying the impurities in α-trinitrotoluene (α-TNT), is described. A unique developing method is used in which a zinc reductor is incorporated directly in the thin layer. p-Diethylaminobenzaldehyde is condensed with the reduced product to obtain the color-developed spot. The impurities commonly occurring in TNT are readily identified by means of this procedure and are found to be the dinitro- and trinitrotoluenes. In addition, an unexpected impurity, α-nitroTNT, was found in one sample of TNT.
AN INTERACTIVE COMPUTER FRAMEWORK FOR LEARNING GENETICS

To enhance the effectiveness of learning genetics, we have developed a series of individual computer programs integrating interactivity with animated processes. It was noted that, although the content of the programs varied, the programs all contained a number of common features, including the ability to display text and images, present animated content, and interact with the user. These common features led us to the development of an innovative and unified framework of integrated functions for modeling and simulations. The framework, named "GeneAct" was developed to standardize and accelerate the development of the computer based genetics learning programs and was used as the application programming interface (API). The API allows the content to be imbued with rich text (text with multi-formats), static images, and animations; and it also allows the program to be interactive.
Human blood prostaglandins: formation during clotting.

Abstract 1. Normal human plasma contains only trace amounts of E or F types of prostaglandins. 2. Prostaglandins E 2 and F 2α are formed in platelet-rich plasma in response to thrombin. 3. Serum, obtained by allowing whole blood to clot at 37°, contains relatively large amounts of prostaglandins E 2 and F 2α . 4. The significance of the above findings is discussed and it is suggested that prostaglandins are formed by platelets during hemostasis and thrombosis.
Nonbinary quantum codes derived from finite geometries

Abstract The paper gives explicit parameters for several infinite families of q -ary quantum stabilizer codes. These codes are derived from combinatorial designs which arise from finite projective and affine geometries.
Former system youth with mental health needs: Routes to adult mental health care, insight, emotions, and mistrust

Abstract Objective Public health concern surrounding the mental health needs of former system youth is escalating. We know very little about mental health service utilization on the other side of the developmental transition to adulthood. The purpose of this study was to explore the mental health service use experiences among former system youth with childhood histories which included mental disorder, use of publicly-funded mental health services, and use of additional public systems of care. Methods In-depth face-to-face interviews were conducted with 60 participants currently struggling with mental health difficulties regarding their service use experiences over the transition. Participants were recruited from one Midwestern state. Multi-phase analysis was conducted utilizing immersion/crystallization, constant comparison and concept matrices. Results Few participants received continuous mental health care across the transition, with the majority experiencing interruptions or discontinuation of care. Important facilitators of service use emerged, such as physicians, former caseworkers and family. Health clinics and parenting programs emerged as potential entree points for reconnecting disengaged young adults to mental health services. Insight, mistrust, and emotions emerged as novel factors associated with service utilization among young adults. Conclusions Mental health service utilization remains a complicated phenomenon over the developmental transition to adulthood. Future research is needed that closely examines the associations between insight, emotion, mistrust and service use among young adults.
The gain and loss of chromosomal integron systems in the Treponema species

Integron systems are now recognized as important agents of bacterial evolution and are prevalent in most environments. One of the human pathogens known to harbor chromosomal integrons, the Treponema spirochetes are the only clade among spirochete species found to carry integrons. With the recent release of many new Treponema genomes, we were able to study the distribution of chromosomal integrons in this genus. We find that the Treponema spirochetes implicated in human periodontal diseases and those isolated from cow and swine intestines contain chromosomal integrons, but not the Treponema species isolated from termite guts. By examining the species tree of selected spirochetes (based on 31 phylogenetic marker genes) and the phylogenetic tree of predicted integron integrases, and assisted by our analysis of predicted integron recombination sites, we found that all integron systems identified in Treponema spirochetes are likely to have evolved from a common ancestor—a horizontal gain into the clade. Subsequent to this event, the integron system was lost in the branch leading to the speciation of T. pallidum and T. phagedenis (the Treponema sps. implicated in sexually transmitted diseases). We also find that the lengths of the integron attC sites shortened through Treponema speciation, and that the integron gene cassettes of T. denticola are highly strain specific. This is the first comprehensive study to characterize the chromosomal integron systems in Treponema species. By characterizing integron distribution and cassette contents in the Treponema sps., we link the integrons to the speciation of the various species, especially to the pathogens T. pallidum and T. phagedenis.
Dynamic recovery during compression testing of monocrystalline NaCl at elevated temperatures

Abstract Single crystals of NaCl in a 〈100〉 orientation were tested under compression in the constant-strain-rate mode at 873 and 973 K. The evolution of the dislocation microstructure was studied at both temperatures over the entire range of strains (up to 0.2) using standard etch-pitting techniques. At 873 K the flow stress σ slowly increases monotonically with strain even though the free dislocation density ϱ (the dislocations within subgrains) passes through a maximum at a plastic strain of about 0.02. At 973 K, ϱ behaves similarly, although nearly steady state flow is eventually observed; in this stage the substructure as well as the flow stress remain invariant with further straining. It is argued that the initial increase in ϱ is comparable with that which occurs on the loading of a sample during a creep test. However, since the loading rate during a constant-strain-rate test is typically much slower than it is during a creep test, the increase in ϱ at small strains is easier to follow. On establishment of the maximum dislocation density compatible with the (approximate) steady state flow stress at elevated temperatures, recovery produces coarsening of the dislocation network. The attendant reduction in ϱ at nearly constant σ is then entirely analogous to the decrease in ϱ that occurs during primary creep in conventional creep tests.
The Two Mrs. Cheneys

This commentary reviews Sisters, Lynne Cheney's Western historical novel. The novel seems to be at odds with Cheney's conservative political views. It considers feminism, lesbianism, and Native Americans in a positive light and is critical of U.S. empire and capitalism as practiced on the early Wyoming frontier. The author considers why Cheney may have felt freer to explore such topics in literature, even though she has not embraced these liberal positions in her political speeches and writings over the years. There seem to be two Mrs. Cheneys, the creative writer and free-thinker, and the conservative wife of the Republican Vice President.
Skyblue: a multi-way local propagation constraint solver for user interface construction

Many user interface toolkits use constraint solvers to maintain geometric relationships between graphic objects, or to connect the graphics to the application data structures. One efficient and flexible technique for maintaining constraints is multi-way local propagation, where constraints are represented by sets of method procedures. To satisfy a set of constraints, a local propagation solver executes one method from each constraint.SkyBlue is an incremental constraint solver that uses local propagation to maintain a set of constraints as individual constraints are added and removed. If all of the constraints cannot be satisfied, SkyBlue leaves weaker constraints unsatisfied in order to satisfy stronger constraints (maintaining a constraint hierarchy). SkyBlue is a more general successor to the DeltaBlue algorithm that satisfies cycles of methods by calling external cycle solvers and supports multi-output methods. These features make SkyBlue more useful for constructing user interfaces, since cycles of constraints can occur frequently in user interface applications and multi-output methods are necessary to represent some useful constraints. This paper discusses some of applications that use SkyBlue, presents times for some user interface benchmarks and describes the SkyBlue algorithm in detail.
The rhetorical methods of Pierre Vergniaud, 1791–1793

A rhetorical analysis of Pierre Vergniaud's speeches, delivered in the Legislative Assembly and the National Convention, reveals three different periods during each of which particular qualities of his rhetoric can be distinguished. Across the period studied here, Vergniaud's rhetoric gradually shifted from argument from definitions to argument from circumstances.
An isolable, oxygen-coordinated silver(I) complex of dimethyl diazomalonate: synthesis and characterization of [HB(3,5-(CF3)2Pz)3]Ag[OC(OCH3)]2CN2 (where Pz = pyrazolyl).

The use of a highly fluorinated tris(pyrazolyl)borate ligand to stabilize a silver(I) adduct containing dimethyl diazomalonate is described. [HB(3,5-(CF3)2Pz)3]Ag[OC(OCH3)]2CN2 is a thermally stabl...
Monoclonal antibodies bind distinct classes of hemocytes in the moth Pseudoplusia includens

Insect hemocytes have historically been identified on the basis of morphology, ultrastructure and hypothesized function. Among insects in the order Lepidoptera, five hemocyte classes are usually recognized: granular cells, plasmatocytes, spherule cells, oenocytoids and prohemocytes. We have generated a panel of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against hemocytes of the moth Pseudoplusia includens. In this study, hemocyte identification using 16 different mAbs was compared to identification methods using morphological characters. Three main categories of mAb binding activity were identified: (1) mAbs that specifically labeled only one morphological class of hemocytes, (2) mAbs that labeled granular cells and spherule cells, and (3) mAbs that labeled plasmatocytes and oenocytoids. With one exception, none of the antibodies bound to other tissues in P. includens. However, certain mAbs that specifically labeled granular cells and/or spherule cells in separated hemocyte populations also labeled plasmatocytes co-cultured with granular cells or cultured in granular cell conditioned medium. Overall, our results suggest that granular cells are antigenically related to spherule cells, and that plasmatocytes are antigenically related to oenocytoids. The use of mAbs as hemocyte markers are discussed.
The emergence of time as a lever for learning

Expanding learning time in schools by extending their schedules is a growing movement aimed at helping high-poverty students get stronger academic skills and enjoy a more well-rounded education and positive development.
Approaches to graft-vs-host disease

Graft-vs-host disease (GVHD) is one of the most difficult problems in stem cell transplantation. It is best considered in the context of the normal immune response. The role of the immune system is to identify and eliminate foreign antigens. In the case of GVHD, the antigens are minor histocompatibility antigens (mHA) recognized in an inflammatory milieu. The immune system cannot reasonably be expected to selectively recognize microbial antigens and ignore mHA. This approach would require the generation of selective tolerance--something that clearly occurs but which we have frustratingly little control over. While we can often treat and remit even life-threatening GVHD, the consequence has been the development of fatal opportunistic infections. The challenge is to change our style of thinking about GVHD to allow a transition from a 'nuclear winter' approach that controls GVHD at the price of infection, to a more selective patient approach that recognizes the limitations of immunosuppressive therapy.
COCYCLE EQUIVALENT HOPF ALGEBRA ACTIONS

Let H be a Hopf algebra over a field K and assume a K-algebra A is an H-module algebra under two actions; · and ∘. We call these actions cocycle equivalent if there is an action of H on M 2(A), h ♦ X, such that for h ∈ H, X ∈ M 2(A) and a,b ∈ A. Two actions are cocycle equivalent if and only if there are cocycles that relate the two actions. Using these, it is shown that cocycle equivalence is a equivalence relation. Finally let H be a finite dimensional, semisimple, cocommutative Hopf algebra and assume K is a splitting field of H. It is shown that the Connes spectrum of H acting on M 2(A) is the intersection of the Connes spectra of H acting on A under · and ∘. Denote the smash product of A and H under the action · by (A#H,·). Let A be H-prime, then (A#H,·) is prime if and only if (A)#H, ♦) is prime if and only if (M 2(A)# H, ♦) is prime.
Securing industrial control systems with a simulation-based verification system

Today's quality of life is highly dependent on the successful operation of many large-scale industrial control systems. To enhance their protection against cyber-attacks and operational errors, we develop a simulation-based verification framework with cross-layer verification techniques that allow comprehensive analysis of the entire ICS-specific stack, including application, protocol, and network layers.
A unified theory of matter. I. The fundamental idea

The Lorentz transformation is derived without assuming that the velocity of light is a constant. This suggests that the constantc which appears in the transformation has a deeper significance than heretofore commonly assumed. It is hypothesized that there exists, in all of physical reality, velocities of only one magnitude. The magnitude isc, the speed of light in vacuum. This hypothesis forces us to view a fundamental particle as an extended object and matter in general as a field ρ(t, r, θ), which we give the generic name “stuff.” An important feature of the ρ field is that at each spacetime point(t, r) stuff travels in all directions θ with speedc. In order to elucidate the nature of ρ(t, r, θ), the equations determining ρ for a one-dimensional world are derived and solved. Fundamental particles are shown to exist and their structure is obtained.
Expansion of a cell population expressing stem cell markers in parathyroid glands from patients with hyperparathyroidism.

Objective: We sought to examine abnormal parathyroid glands for the presence of stem cells. Summary Background Data: Cancer stem cells have been identified in cancers from a variety of tissues as a CD44 + /CD24 - cell population. We hypothesize that stem cells (SC) may also be involved in the pathogenesis of benign clonal expansion characteristic of hyperparathyroidism (HPT). Methods: Under institutional review board approval, parathyroid tissue was obtained from 20 patients with HPT and analyzed by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) for the CD44 + /CD24 - cell population. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) with CD44 antibody was correlated with FACS results. Results: Parathyroid tissue was obtained for FACS analysis from 25 enlarged parathyroid glands from 20 patients, 17 with primary HPT, and 3 with secondary HPT. The average percent of SC defined as CD44 + /CD24 - population was 10.93% for enlarged parathyroid glands. IHC using CD44 antibody was performed on 27 abnormal parathyroid glands and 7 normal parathyroid gland biopsies from the same patients. Although IHC was not as sensitive as FACS, comparison of IHC and FACS results for 24 abnormal glands gave a correlation coefficient of 0.52, which was statistically significant (P = 0.01, Spearman rank). By IHC, 13 of 27 abnormal glands stained 1+ to 3+ (average, 0.93) compared with no CD44 staining in normal glands, which was statistically different (mean IHC of 0 vs. 0.93, P = 0.03, Wilcoxon). Conclusions: These novel findings demonstrate expansion of a resident cell population that expresses SC markers in abnormal parathyroid glands from patients with HPT. Our results suggest that clonal expansion of a resident SC population occurs in the pathogenesis not only of cancer, but also in benign parathyroid tumors occurring in HPT.
A Water-Stable Organometallic Rhodium Quinone Catalyst and Its Recyclability

When the insoluble dimers [Rh(COD)X]2 (X = OH−, Cl−) are in contact with a basic aqueous solution of hydroquinone dianion, the precipitate dissolves to afford (benzoquinone)Rh(COD)− (2). Complex 2 ...
P-Rank: An indicator measuring prestige in heterogeneous scholarly networks

Ranking scientific productivity and prestige are often limited to homogeneous networks. These networks are unable to account for the multiple factors that constitute the scholarly communication and reward system. This study proposes a new informetric indicator, P-Rank, for measuring prestige in heterogeneous scholarly networks containing articles, authors, and journals. P-Rank differentiates the weight of each citation based on its citing papers, citing journals, and citing authors. Articles from 16 representative library and information science journals are selected as the dataset. Principle Component Analysis is conducted to examine the relationship between P-Rank and other bibliometric indicators. We also compare the correlation and rank variances between citation counts and P-Rank scores. This work provides a new approach to examining prestige in scholarly communication networks in a more comprehensive and nuanced way. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Optimal lot-sizing in an imperfect production system with homogeneous reworkable jobs

Abstract We consider a lot-sizing problem in a single-stage imperfect production system where the job processing is failure-prone. The processing may generate two types of defects: 1) reworkable defects which must be sent back for rework; 2) nonreworkable defects which are discarded immediately. The production process will switch between new jobs and rework jobs. Both new-job processing time and rework time are random. We discuss the optimal lot-sizing control, under a class of operating policies, to maximize the average profit over an infinite time horizon. We establish the existence of an optimal lot size. Furthermore, we characterize the profit function. Through the discussion, we obtain a very efficient algorithm for determining an optimal lot size.
Congruence of meaning between facial expressions of emotion and selected emotion terms

How similar are the meanings of facial expressions of emotion and the emotion terms frequently used to label them? In three studies, subjects made similarity judgments and emotion self-report ratings in response to six emotion categories represented in Ekman and Friesen's Pictures of Facial Affect, and their associated labels. Results were analyzed with respect to the constituent facial movements using the Facial Action Coding System, and using consensus analysis, multidimensional scaling, and inferential statistics. Shared interpretation of meaning was found between individuals and the group, with congruence between the meaning in facial expressions, labeling using basic emotion terms, and subjects' reported emotional responses. The data suggest that (1) the general labels used by Ekman and Friesen are appropriate but may not be optimal, (2) certain facial movements contribute more to the perception of emotion than do others, and (3) perception of emotion may be categorical rather than dimensional.
Water and nitrogen manipulations of the desert shrub Larrea divaricata subsp. tridentata (Zygophyllaceae).

Water supplementation of Larrea divaricata subsp. tridentata bushes growing under natural conditions affected the amount of resin, nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) and soluble protein present in the leaves. Nitrogen fertilization had no effect on these parameters. The total resin and NDGA content also varied with the leaf production dates, but the NDGA concentration in the resin was not affected by either the treatment or the time of production. Herbivore activity, measured as a percentage of the leaves eaten, was not affected by these manipulations, varied with season (highest during the summer) and had a negative correlation with the resin content of the plant.
Differential response to intravenous prostacyclin analog therapy in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension

Abstract Background Treprostinil is an intravenous prostacyclin analog approved for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Few studies have compared the pharmacodynamics and effectiveness of treprostinil and epoprostenol in patients with high-risk PAH . Methods Case series of patients with PAH admitted to a Medical Intensive Care Unit for transition from epoprostenol to intravenous treprostinil for refractory class III–IV functional symptoms or right heart failure . Mixed linear models were used for comparisons between repeated hemodynamic measurements. Results Five of fourteen patients treated with intravenous treprostinil during the study period underwent transition to epoprostenol. Two had PAH associated with systemic sclerosis , three had idiopathic PAH. Pulmonary arterial pressures (PAP) and pulmonary vascular resistance significantly increased within 1 h after discontinuation of treprostinil in all subjects. Mean PAPs immediately prior to discontinuation of treprostinil (53.4 ± 7.5 mmHg) were significantly lower than the values 1 h after discontinuation (63.6 ± 9.6 mmHg, p = 0.026), but were significantly higher than the values following transition to epoprostenol (45.4 ± 5.5, p = 0.0493); 4/5 subjects had short-term clinical follow-up data available; all improved in functional class. No subject experienced adverse events during the transition. Conclusions High-risk PAH patients with an inadequate response to treprostinil may have significant clinical and hemodynamic response to epoprostenol. Following discontinuation of treprostinil in these patients, the hemodynamic effects of discontinuation were seen in substantially shorter time than what is known to be the pharmacokinetic terminal half-life.
Compiling functional parallelism on distributed-memory systems

We have developed an automatic compilation method that combines data- and code-based approaches to schedule a program's functional parallelism onto distributed memory systems. Our method works with Sisal, a parallel functional language, and replaces the back end of the Optimizing Sisal Compiler so that it produces code for distributed memory systems. Our extensions allow the compiler to generate code for Intel's distributed-memory Touchstone iPSC/860 machines (Gamma, Delta, and Paragon). The modified compiler can generate a partition that minimizes program completion time (for systems with many processors) or the required number of processors (for systems with few processors). To accomplish this, we have developed a heuristic algorithm that uses the new concept of threshold to treat the problem of scheduling as a trade-off between schedule length and the number of required processors. Most compilers for distributed memory systems force the programmer to partition the data or the program code. This modified version of a Sisal compiler handles both tasks automatically in a unified framework, and lets the programmer compile for a chosen number of processors. >
The thinning top: why old people have less hair.

Changes in the hair cycle underlie age-related alopecia, but the causative mechanisms have remained unclear. Chen et al. point to an imbalance between stem cell–activating and –inhibitory signals as the key determinant of age-related regenerative decline. Further, they identify a secreted protein, follistatin, that may be able to shift the balance toward renewal.
Reaction of Wild Emmer Wheat Accessions to Fusarium Head Blight

Fusarium head blight (FHB), caused mainly by Fusarium graminearum Schwabe, is a serious disease of wheat (Triticum spp.) worldwide. Host resistance has proven the most effective method of controlling FHB in common wheat (T. aestivum L, 2n = 6x = 42, genomes AABBDD). Progress in breeding for FHB resistance in durum wheat (T. turgidum L. ssp. durum, 2n = 4x = 28, genomes AABB), however, has been limited by a lack of resistance sources. Fortunately, durum wheat has a large number of tetraploid relatives, which represent a gene pool for improvement of FHB resistance in durum. The objective of this study was to search for sources of FHB resistance in wild emmer wheat [T. turgidum L. ssp. dicoccoides (Korn. ex Asch. & Graebner) Thell., 2n = 4x = 28, genomes AABB] (TDIC). We evaluated 416 accessions of wild emmer wheat for reaction to FHB using the point inoculation method in a greenhouse environment. Accessions exhibiting a low FHB disease rating in preliminary evaluations were retested in fully replicated experiments. Among the 416 accessions tested, there was wide variation in response to FHB, ranging from highly resistant to highly susceptible. Several accessions showed minimal disease development across two or more seasons and represent potential new sources to enhance resistance of durum wheat to FHB.
Placental Copper Transport in the Rat. II: Effect of Maternal Copper Deficiency

Copper (Cu) placental transport presents a steep downhill gradient from mother to fetus. This process could be altered by low-molecular-weight (LMW) ligands and maternal Cu deficiency. We compared the ratio of Cu transfer from dam-to-fetus in Cu-deficient (CuDf) and Cu-sufficient (CuSf) rats in the last day of gestation. Anaesthetized dams were iv injected 79 mumol/kg (5 mg/kg) of either Cu acetate [Cu (AcO)2]; Cu+L-histidine, 1:10. [Cu(His)10]; Cu-(glycyl-glycyl-L-histidine) [Cu(GGH)], or saline. Dam and fetal blood, as well as placentae were obtained at 0, 10, 20, 40 and 60 min. At time 0, CuDf dams had lower plasma Cu than CuSf dams (8.3 +/- 1.2 versus 26.7 +/- 1.1 mumol/l), but CuDf fetuses plasma Cu was unchanged. This resulted in a more favourable mean fetal: maternal plasma Cu ratio in the CuDf fetuses (0.61) than in the CuSf fetuses (0.21). Dam plasma Cu was unaffected by the chemical form of Cu injected. In CuDf fetuses lower plasma Cu was observed with Cu(GGH) and Cu (His)10 at 20 min than in the CuSf. In the presence of these LMW ligands CuDf placentae retained more Cu than those of the CuSf group. CuDf was associated ultrastructurally with extensive lipid deposition in dam hepatocytes and, to a lesser extent, in CuDf fetal liver. These results indicate that in CuDf, LMW ligands increase placental uptake of Cu, without improving placenta-fetus transport. Although the rat fetus is well adapted to intrauterine CuDf, it may also be susceptible to hepatic lipid infiltration when the dam is CuDf.
A Moveable Feast: Variation in Faunal Resource Use among Central and Western North American Paleoindian Sites

In the Great Plains and Rocky Mountains of North America, researchers have debated the degree to which Paleoindian foragers relied on large-game hunting to fulfill their subsistence needs. This study reviews the zooarchaeological record from 60 sites to test predictions drawn from prey choice models. Results indicate that different site types provide different perspectives on Paleoindian faunal use. Data from kill assemblages can only inform on the exploitation of large game, while the full variety of prey used by Paleoindian foragers is represented at camp localities. In addition, prehistoric foragers varied prey choice based on habitat setting. In the low diversity grasslands of the High Plains and Rolling Hills, prehistoric groups hunted large game almost exclusively. In the more diverse environments of the alluvial valleys and foothill/mountain environments, foragers show higher diversity of faunal use. During the early Holocene, small game made a greater contribution in the diet of Paleoindians, possibly in response to changing environmental conditions and/or increased hunting pressure.
Multiple zones and spots in chromatography

Abstract Cases in which multiple spots appear in the chromatography of single substances are given. The various theoretical interpretations of multiple spotting are discussed and related to one another. Theoretical equations are derived for the evaluation of concentration profiles and spot shapes when the origin of multiple spotting is the show interconversion of chemical species. A number of examples which give typical spot profiles are shown. Methods for determining the actual origin of multiple spotting are discussed.
Estrogen sulfoconjugation by human endometrial cancer cells (RL95-2) in culture

Estrogen metabolism was studied in a newly established cell line (RL95-2) derived from a human endometrial carcinoma. Estradiol and estrone were metabolized to water-soluble derivatives by cells under in vitro culture conditions. Between 80-90% of the added steroids were metabolized, with nearly quantitative recovery of the products from the incubation medium. Arylsulfatase treatment converted the metabolites to ether-soluble forms, whereas beta-glucuronidase had no effect on the aqueous solubility of these compounds. Butanol extracts of the water-soluble estradiol metabolites cochromatographed on high performance liquid chromatography with 17 beta-estradiol-3-sulfate (93.6%) or estrone-3-sulfate (3.5%). No more than 6% of the estradiol added to the incubation medium was recovered in the form of estrone, either as estrone or estrone sulfate. After arylsulfatase treatment of the estradiol conjugates, 92% of the ether-soluble radioactivity cochromatographed with estradiol, and 3.8% cochromatographed with estrone. Estrogen-sulfurylating activity was localized in the cytosol of subcellular fractions of RL95-2 cells. The sulfoconjugation of estrogens by RL95-2 cells may prove useful as a model for the investigation of estrogen metabolism in endometrial carcinoma cells.
Feeding Habits of Three Species of Gars, Lepisosteus, along the Mississippi Gulf Coast

Abstract During the summer of 1965, stomach contents of three species of gars from brackish water of the Mississippi Coast were examined. An attempt was made to correlate the types and amounts of food items eaten with ecological conditions which prevailed at the time of the capture. The alligator gar, Lepisosteus spatula, fed heavily on Galeichthys felis and other fishes which were periodically discarded around docks and piers as refuse. The longnose gar, L. osseus, which fed primarily on Brevoortia patronus at night, was a more active predator. In contrast, L. oculatus, the spotted gar, was found to prey extensively on Uca pugnax and Callinectes sapidus in the shallows during rising and high tides.
The Effect of Oiling Before and After Cleaning in Maintaining the Albumen Condition of Shell Eggs

Abstract INTRODUCTION MUCH WORK concerning the value of oiling eggs to preserve them has been done. Romanoff and Romanoff (1949), cite in their brief discussion of oiling, fourteen publications dealing with almost every aspect of oiling from problems encountered, methods of oiling and the mechanisms by which oiling preserves the eggs. The process of oiling is by no means a new one. At least as early as 1807, Dutch farmers immersed eggs in linseed oil for several hours before storing them for future use (Spamer, 1931). At first, the primary method of oiling eggs was to dip them in an odorless and tasteless mineral oil for a few moments and then allow them to drain. Then in 1939 Swenson introduced the vacuum method of oiling eggs. Eggs oiled in this manner were found to lose weight more slowly and an increase in pH was retarded more effectively than in ordinary dip …
Child maltreatment and perceived family environment as risk factors for adult rape: is child sexual abuse the most salient experience?

Abstract Objective: Child maltreatment and family functioning were examined as predictors of adult rape in a sample of 925 college women. Method: Information was obtained from retrospective self-report questionnaires. Child sexual abuse (CSA) was assessed with the Life Experiences Questionnaire, child emotional abuse (CEA) and physical abuse (CPA) were assessed with the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire, family functioning was assessed with the Family Environment Scale, and adult rape was assessed with the Sexual Experiences Survey. Results: Approximately 17% of women reported a history of any form of child abuse: 8.9% reported CSA, 4.2% reported CPA, and 8.6% reported CEA. Fifteen percent of participants reported a history of rape since age 17. CSA and CEA, but not CPA, were related to adult rape. Experiencing multiple forms of child abuse increased the risk of adult rape. Logistic regression analyses indicated that CSA predicted adult rape (OR = 1.9). Further, low levels of family cohesion predicted adult rape only in the absence of CEA (OR = 1.2), and low levels of emotional expressiveness in the family predicted adult rape only in the presence of CEA (OR = 1.4). Conclusions: Findings highlight the need to consider multiple forms of child abuse as well as family functioning in relation to the risk of adult sexual victimization. Findings suggest CSA is a risk factor for adult victimization independent of family functioning, and family dysfunction exerts an impact on rape only in relation to CEA.
Empirical Force Field Analysis of the Revised Structure of Coenzyme F430. Epimerization and Geometry of the Corphinoid Tetrapyrrole

We undertook an empirical force field analysis of the conformational changes that accompany the diepimerization of coenzyme F430. The crystal structure of 12,13-diepi F430M was used as a test of the parameter set and as the basis for the calculations. The individual pyrrole rings in 13-epi and 12,13-diepi F430 adopt alternating half chair conformations leading to a ruffled macrocycle, native F430 is also ruffled but the individual pyrroles are planar. The 12,13 di-dehydro F430 and native F430 conformations are extremely similar, this accounts for the experimental observation that reduction of 12,13 di-dehydro-F430 forms native F430 and not 12,13-diepi F430. Native F430 can easily accommodate both square planar and, by bending, trigonal bipyramidal coordination geometries about nickel. We suggest that bent trigonal bipyramidal form is the conformer bound to the protein and that direct binding of the amino acid side chains to nickel is probably not important.
Increasing Stormwater Outfall Duration, Magnitude, and Volume through Combined Sewer Separation

Combined sewer separation projects designed for water quality benefits will change pipe networks and alter stormwater outfall hydrographs. Separation induced outfall hydrograph changes were explored for the 12.14 ha (0.05 mi2 ) combined sewer overflow (CSO) 050 service and its 29 stormwater catchbasins in Syracuse, N.Y. Topographic and infrastructure analysis together with catchbasin monitoring of stormwater runoff were used to parametrize and validate the Storm Water Management Model for two events in 2003. Sewer separation impacts on outfall hydrographs were then analyzed for 50 historical and 28 design precipitation events, ranging from 15 min to 24 h duration, 2–25 y frequency. Separation of combined sewers increased historic storm median outfall hydrograph duration by 2,044%, peak magnitude by 113%, and volume by 617%, whereas increases in design storm median outfall duration was 879%, peak magnitude was 27%, and volume was 54%. Changes in outfall hydrograph characteristics were explained by system i...
Sensorless position control of a brushless motor in circulatory assist devices

Abstract An innovative technique to implement position feedback and commutation of brushless D.C. motors without explicit position sensing is presented. The procedure has been successfully implemented for the Pennsylvania State University Electric Ventricular Assist Device (EVAD). Laboratory tests indicate that the method is successful for pumping operations in a mock circulatory loop for beat rates up to 60 beats min −1 and over several days of uninterrupted operation. This method of sensorless commutation is presently being investigated for inclusion as a backup system for the Penn State circulatory assist devices.
Strain-induced diffusion and precipitation in aluminum-lithium alloy during creep☆

ABS>What appeared to be strain-induced diffusion and precipitation was observed during creep in a binary, two-phase Al-- 12 at.% Li alloy. Continuous layers of the beta phases, LiAl, formed in grain boundaries oriented 45 to 90 deg to the direction of stress, but did not form in the boundaries parallel to the stress direction. The thickness of the LiAl layers was related to the amount of creep strain, the layers being thickest where the specimens were strained the most. The strain-induced diffusion and precipitation were associated with the structural changes of the grain boundaries that would finally have led to fracture, since the major part of the strain occurred during third-stage creep when the strain rate was increasing. (M.C.G.)
Photoinhibition in Vitis californica: interactive effects of sunlight, temperature and water status

Abstract. In a series of factorial experiments with cultivated Vitis californica Benth. (California wild grape) growth outdoors in full sun, we examined the effects of sunlight, temperature and water status on net CO2 uptake and PSH chlorophyll fluorescence at 77K. Exposure to either high light or high temperature caused reductions in PSH activity followed by partial or complete overnight recovery. Upon simulataneous exposure to high light and high temperature, PSH inhibition was severe and persistent. The maximum chlorophyll fluorescence (FM) and the ratio of variable to maximum fluorescence (Fv/FM) differed in their responses to combinations of light and temperature. At both low and high light. FM declined with increasing temperature over a wide temperature range, while Fv/FM exhibited a similar sensitivity to temperature only at high light. Net CO2 uptake declined by mid-afternoon and recovered by the next morning in most leaves, regardless of incident light or temperature. However, high-light leaves exhibited severe and lasting declines if temperatures exceeded 45°C. Water-stressed leaves exposed to high light exhibited greater reductions of net CO2 uptake than water-stressed leaves exposed to low light. However, the degree of light-dependent decline in PSH fluorescence (FM and Fv/FM) did not vary with water status, indicating that reduced PSH activity was not a primary cause of reduced carbon gain during water stress.