cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ab initio LDA+U prediction of the tensile properties of chromia across multiple length scales

Abstract Periodic density functional theory (DFT) and DFT+U calculations are used to evaluate various mechanical properties associated with the fracture of chromia (Cr2O3) along the [0 0 0 1] and [ 0 1 1 ¯ ( 3 / 2 ) ( a / c ) 2 2 ] directions. The properties investigated include the tensile strength, elastic constants, and surface energies. The tensile strengths are evaluated using an ideal tensile test, which provides the theoretical tensile strength, and by fitting the calculated data to universal binding energy relationships (UBER), which permit the extrapolation of the calculated results to arbitrary length scales. The results demonstrate the ability of the UBER to yield a realistic estimate of the tensile strength of a 10-μm-thick sample of Cr2O3 using data obtained through calculations on nanoscopic systems. We predict that Cr2O3 will fracture most easily in the [ 0 1 1 ¯ ( 3 / 2 ) ( a / c ) 2 2 ] direction, with a best estimate for the tensile strength of 386 MPa for a 10 μm grain, consistent with flexural strength measurements for chromia. The grain becomes considerably stronger at the nanoscale, where we predict a tensile strength along the same direction of 32.1 GPa for 1.45 nm crystallite. The results also provide insight into the origin of the direction dependence of the mechanical properties of Cr2O3, with the differences in the behavior along different directions being related to the number of Cr–O bonds supporting the applied tensile load. Additionally, the results shed light on various practical aspects of modeling the mechanical properties of materials with DFT+U calculations and in using UBERs to estimate the mechanical properties of materials across disparate length scales.
Hemifield slide from traumatic optic chiasmopathy

A 56-year-old man suffered a high velocity linear acceleration closed head injury, resulting in skull fractures including bone dehiscence at the planum sphenoidale and tuberculum sellae. After regaining consciousness, he reported blurry vision and episodic diplopia. Visual field testing showed a bitemporal hemianopia. Ocular motility testing uncovered no misalignment. Brain MRI revealed post-traumatic encephalomalacia within the optic chiasm, resulting in the visual field defect and subsequent hemifield slide. Normally, cerebral processing of overlap between the visual fields prevents hemifield slide, which is caused by episodic loss of visual field overlap with subsequent slipping or sliding apart of images.
Robotic-assisted laparoscopic low anterior resection with total mesorectal excision for rectal cancer

Background: With advanced stereoscopic vision, lack of tremor, and the ability to rotate the instruments surgeons find that robotic systems are ideal laparoscopic tools. Because of its high operating cost, however, robotic surgery should be reserved to procedures in which the technology can be of maximum benefit, usually when precise dissections in confined spaces are required. Because conventional laparoscopic total mesorectal excision is a challenging procedure, we have sought to assess the utility of the DaVinci robotic system in laparoscopic low anterior resections for cancer of the rectum. Methods: Between November 2004 and May 2005 robotic-assisted low anterior resection with total mesorectal excision was performed on six consecutive patients with rectal cancer. These cases were compared with six consecutive low anterior resections performed with conventional laparoscopic techniques by the same surgeon. Results: There were no conversions in either group. Operative and pathological data, complications, and hospital stay were similar in the two groups. Robotic operations appeared to cause less strain for the surgeon. Conclusions: Robotic-assisted laparoscopic low anterior resection for rectal cancer is feasible in experienced hands. This technique may facilitate minimally invasive radical rectal surgery.
Delineation of Somatic Nerve Endings in Rat Teeth by Radioautography of Axon-Transported Protein

We have used radioautographic tracing to show that somatic nerves of rat molars fan out in the coronal pulp to end in an extensive subodontoblast. plexus, on coronal odontoblasts, and along their dentinal processes. Molar response dentin has sparse innervation. Incisors have only a few somatic nerve endings that occur near pulp blood vessels.
Polar Movement of Ions in Barley Roots

The movement of Na+, Rb+, Ca2+, Cl−, and THO was investigated in excised roots of six-day-old barley plants containing different initial salt contents. Ions applied at any point of a root segment, 12 cm long, moved strictly towards the base of the root. The polar movement was maintained even after removing different lengths of the apex and applying ions to the central zone of the remaining segment. Ions applied to either cut end also showed the same polar movement. The polar movement of ions was unaffected by the initial salt status. Tritiated water applied to the central zone of the segment moved in both the apical and basal direction. The ion movement was not correlated with the water movement. No current hypothesis of ion transport satisfactorily explains the observed polar movement.
APPROXIMATE COMPOSITION OF THE LOWEST FUSING MIXTURE OF BARIUM OXIDE, MAGNESIUM OXIDE, AND SILICA*

Varying mixtures of BaO, MgO, and SiO2 were made into cones and fired to determine the temperature at which they would fuse. The direction of falling temperature as determined by their relative fusion temperatures converged to an area whose center represented a mixture, the composition of which was approximately 46.0% by weight of BaO, 8.0% by weight of MgO, and 46.0% by weight of SiO2. The first signs of fusion occurred in this mixture at standard pyrometric cone 1 (3 o'clock).
Differentiation of self and racial identity

This study explored the relationship between personal identity development and in-group/out-group identities within the sociopsychological context of the USA. Specifically, the study examined the relationship between Bowen’s construct of differentiation of self and Helms’ construct of racial identity for an American sample of 309 undergraduate and graduate students. Insofar as both models refer to a progression from an externally defined sense of self to an internally defined sense of self, it was hypothesized that higher levels of more sophisticated racial identity statuses would be positively associated with higher levels of self-differentiation for both white participants and participants of color. Overall, the findings suggest that for white students, attitudes associated with a more differentiated sense of self are also associated with a more sophisticated racial identity statuses, increased awareness of how white privilege and racism operate, and less internal conflict about one’s own racial identit...
Neoadjuvant cisplatin and radical cesarean hysterectomy for cervical cancer in pregnancy

Cervical cancer is one of the most frequent malignancies diagnosed during pregnancy. Karam et al. report the case of a 28-year-old woman who was diagnosed with poorly-differentiated stage IB2 squamous-cell cervical carcinoma at 23 weeks of gestation. The patient received neoadjuvant cisplatin, underwent radical cesarean hysterectomy and after delivery commenced pelvic radiation therapy with cisplatin chemosensitization. The authors discuss the treatment and management options for women diagnosed with cervical carcinoma during pregnancy and review the reported experience with the use of chemotherapy in such cases. Background A 28-year-old Hispanic gravida 1 was found to have a 4–5 cm cervical mass when she presented at 23 weeks gestation. On pelvic examination, the tumor was shown to encompass the entire circumference of the cervix without parametrial or vaginal involvement. A biopsy of the mass revealed a poorly differentiated squamous-cell carcinoma of the cervix. An MRI study of the abdomen and pelvis showed a 4 cm cervical mass that was suspicious for left parametrial and rectovaginal septal involvement. No hydronephrosis or lymphadenopathy was noted. The patient elected to proceed with her pregnancy. Investigations General physical and gynecological examinations, cervical biopsy, pelvic and obstetric ultrasound, histopathological examination, MRI of the abdomen and pelvis without and with gadolinium, neonatal hearing test and renal function studies. Diagnosis Poorly differentiated stage IB2 squamous-cell carcinoma of the cervix with MRI imaging suggestive of parametrial and rectovaginal septal involvement. Management Neoadjuvant chemotherapy using weekly cisplatin from 24 to 30 weeks, bed rest and oral terbutaline at 31 weeks because of premature contractions, and a course of antenatal steroids to promote fetal lung maturity. At 33 weeks radical cesarean hysterectomy, bilateral pelvic and para-aortic lymphadenectomy and bilateral ovarian transposition were carried out, followed by adjuvant pelvic radiation therapy with cisplatin chemosensitization 4 weeks postpartum.
Phylogenetic analysis of the fecal microbial community in herbivorous land and marine iguanas of the Galápagos Islands using 16S rRNA-based pyrosequencing.

Herbivorous reptiles depend on complex gut microbial communities to effectively degrade dietary polysaccharides. The composition of these fermentative communities may vary based on dietary differences. To explore the role of diet in shaping gut microbial communities, we evaluated the fecal samples from two related host species—the algae-consuming marine iguana (Amblyrhynchus cristatus) and land iguanas (LI) (genus Conolophus) that consume terrestrial vegetation. Marine and LI fecal samples were collected from different islands in the Galapagos archipelago. High-throughput 16S rRNA-based pyrosequencing was used to provide a comparative analysis of fecal microbial diversity. At the phylum level, the fecal microbial community in iguanas was predominated by Firmicutes (69.5±7.9%) and Bacteroidetes (6.2±2.8%), as well as unclassified Bacteria (20.6±8.6%), suggesting that a large portion of iguana fecal microbiota is novel and could be involved in currently unknown functions. Host species differed in the abundance of specific bacterial groups. Bacteroides spp., Lachnospiraceae and Clostridiaceae were significantly more abundant in the marine iguanas (MI) (P-value>1E−9). In contrast, Ruminococcaceae were present at >5-fold higher abundance in the LI than MI (P-value>6E−14). Archaea were only detected in the LI. The number of operational taxonomic units (OTUs) in the LI (356–896 OTUs) was >2-fold higher than in the MI (112–567 OTUs), and this increase in OTU diversity could be related to the complexity of the resident bacterial population and their gene repertoire required to breakdown the recalcitrant polysaccharides prevalent in terrestrial plants. Our findings suggest that dietary differences contribute to gut microbial community differentiation in herbivorous lizards. Most importantly, this study provides a better understanding of the microbial diversity in the iguana gut; therefore facilitating future efforts to discover novel bacterial-associated enzymes that can effectively breakdown a wide variety of complex polysaccharides.
On the thermodynamic theory of fluid interfaces: infinite intervals, equilibrium solutions, and minimizers

Abstract We outline a thermodynamic theory for one-dimensional fluid interfaces and compare our findings with the classical results of the variational van der Waals-Cahn-Hilliard approach. After establishing necessary and sufficient conditions for their equivalence, we list all types of possible solutions giving the structure of the density profile in an infinite interval. Then we examine the stability of these solutions, strictly within a variational thermodynamic context and prove that transitions are minimizers, but reversals and oscillations are not. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first proof available for this old problem. It substantiates previous intuitive statements and makes rigorous certain mathematical assertions existing in the physical literature.
Systemic Air Embolization from Penetrating Lung Injury

Abstract This study evaluates the role of increased intratracheal pressure in developing systemic air embolization. Twenty healthy mongrel dogs were monitored for air embolization, both by means of an extracorporeal arteriovenous shunt constructed from transparent plastic tubing for visualization of air emboli and by means of a Doppler flow probe implanted at the root of the aorta. Systemic arterial, left atrial, intratracheal, and intrapleural pressures were recorded. In 10 of the dogs, a penetrating wound of the lung 1 cm wide by 4 cm deep was produced; in 5 the chest was left open and in 5 the chest was closed. The remaining 10 dogs served as controls (with no wound of the lung); in 5 the chest was left open and in the other 5 the chest was closed. No air embolization occurred in any animals at intratracheal pressures less than 65 mm Hg. However, systemic air embolization occurred in every dog in all groups upon hyperinflation of the lung above 65 mm Hg. The control groups differed from the groups with penetrating wound only in the quantity of embolized air. This study suggests that hyperinflation of the lung to an intratracheal pressure above 65 mm Hg results in systemic air embolization and that the presence of a penetrating wound of the lung at such intratracheal pressure predisposes to a greater quantity of air embolization.
Separation of Two Forms of Anthranilate Synthetase from 5‐Methyltryptophar Susceptible and ‐Resistant Cultured Solarium tuberosumCells

Potato cell suspension cultures (Solanum tuberosumL. cv. Merrimack) have been selected which are resistant to growth inhibition by D,L-5-methyltryptophan. Anthranilate synthetase activity in crude extracts from resistant cells was less sensitive to feedback inhibition by L-tryptophan and D,L-5-methyltryptophan than the activity from the sensitive line. This altered feedback control apparently accounts for the cell's resistance to growth inhibition since there is a 48-fold increase in free tryptophan in one of the resistant cell lines. Preparative polyacrylamide gel electro-phoresis separated feedback-sensitive and -resistant forms of anthranilate synthetase in extracts from both 5-methyltryptophan-susceptible and -resistant cells, with a predominance of the corresponding form in the respective cell type. The anthranilate synthetase activity from the 5-methyltryptophan-resistant line was inactivated more slowly by incubation of crude extracts at 50°C than the activity from the sensitive line. These results suggest the presence of two isoenzymes of anthranilate synthetase in cultured potato cells.
Bioactive Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers from the Marine Sponge Dysidea sp

A new polybrominated diphenyl ether (9), together with eight known compounds, were isolated from the crude organic extract of the marine sponge Dysidea sp. collected from the Federated States of Micronesia. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of various NMR spectroscopic data. These compounds exhibited inhibitory activities against Streptomyces 85E in the hyphae formation inhibition (HFI) assay and displayed antiproliferative activities against the human breast adenocarcinoma cancer cell line MCF-7. Compound 6 was selected for further evaluation in a cell cycle progression study.
The inhibition by DPNH of the transformation of pregnenolone to progesterone by a rat adrenal preparation.

Abstract Using a supernatant fraction from a rat adrenal homogenate, it has been shown that DPNH inhibits the transformation of pregnenolone to corticoids. A previously observed inhibition of this transformation by DPN in adrenal whole homogenates has been largely eliminated in this system. The DPNH inhibition can be reversed by DPN. Ascorbic acid will also reverse the inhibition. Some other properties of the system have been described.
Low-frequency power-grid ancillary services from commercial building HVAC systems

With the introduction of volatile renewable energy sources into the grid, the need for inexpensive ancillary service increases. We propose a method to provide ancillary service by using the flexibility of demand in commercial building HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning) systems. In particular, we show how a regulation command transmitted by a balancing authority can be tracked by varying the cooling demand in commercial buildings in real-time. A key idea here is the bandwidth limitation of the regulation signal, which allows the building's HVAC system to provide this service with little effect on the indoor climate. The proposed control scheme can be applied on any building with a VAV (Variable Air Volume) system and on-site chiller(s). Simple calculations show that the commercial buildings in the U.S. can provide 47 GW of regulation reserves in the frequency band f ∈ [1=(60 min);1=(3 min)] with virtually no change in the indoor climate, while meeting current ISO/RTO standards for regulation.
Multimodal Interactions between Proprioceptive and Cutaneous Signals in Primary Somatosensory Cortex.

Summary The classical view of somatosensory processing holds that proprioceptive and cutaneous inputs are conveyed to cortex through segregated channels, initially synapsing in modality-specific areas 3a (proprioception) and 3b (cutaneous) of primary somatosensory cortex (SI). These areas relay their signals to areas 1 and 2 where multimodal convergence first emerges. However, proprioceptive and cutaneous maps have traditionally been characterized using unreliable stimulation tools. Here, we employed a mechanical stimulator that reliably positioned animals' hands in different postures and presented tactile stimuli with superb precision. Single-unit recordings in SI revealed that most neurons responded to cutaneous and proprioceptive stimuli, including cells in areas 3a and 3b. Multimodal responses were characterized by linear and nonlinear effects that emerged during early (∼20 ms) and latter (> 100 ms) stages of stimulus processing, respectively. These data are incompatible with the modality specificity model in SI, and provide evidence for distinct mechanisms of multimodal processing in the somatosensory system.
Characterization of drosophila transcription factors that activate the tandem promoters of the alcohol dehydrogenase gene

Summary Fractionation of a nuclear extract derived from Drosophila tissue culture cells reveals the presence of multiple components involved in accurate transcription of both distal and proximal promoters of the alcohol dehydrogenase (Adh) gene. Transcription of deletion mutants indicates that a region between −24 and −85 upstream of the distal start site contains sequences required for RNA synthesis in vitro. Moreover, sequences that overlap this same upstream control region are specifically bound and protected from DNAase digestion by a promoter-specific transcription factor, Adf-1. Analysis of proximal promoter mutants identified multiple upstream elements that influence transcription, and DNAase footprint analysis detected three specific binding regions. Adf-1 binds at least one of these proximal promoter regions but interaction at this site is not specifically required for transcription. Our results suggest that multiple sequence-specific DNA binding proteins interact differentially with the proximal and distal promoters of Adh to activate transcription.
Determination of Sulfur in Glass

The total sulfur in glass in the range 0.01 to 1.0% SO3 can be rapidly estimated by an induction furnace combustion method using standard commercial equipment. The results compare favorably with the classical barium sulfate precipitation procedure and with X-ray fluorescence analysis. The sulfide sulfur in glass can be determined by solution of the sample with hydrofluoric acid in the presence of silver ion, followed by titration of the amount of silver precipitated.
EXACT SOLUTION OF THE VIBRATION PROBLEM FOR THE CARBON-60 MOLECULE

Abstract Utilizing the icosahedral symmetry of the C 60 molecule by amalgamating two methods, we solve the vibrational eigenfrequency problem for carbon-60 to obtain exact algebraic expressions for the characteristic polynomials of the vibration. The inter-atomic interaction consists of four force constants, two for bond-stretching and two for angle-oscillation.
The double seismic zone in downgoing slabs and the viscosity of the mesosphere

The seismic zone beneath several island arcs between about 100 and 200 km depth consists of an upper zone having down-dip compression and a lower zone having down-dip tension. Several numerical models of the Aleutian arc were computed to test the hypothesis that these double seismic zones are due to sagging of the slab under its own weight. This sagging occurs because the asthenosphere (between about 100 and 200 km) provides little support or resistance to the slab, which is supported from below by the more viscous mesosphere and from above by the lithosphere. The viscosity of the mesosphere was constrained to the interval between 0.25 x 10 to the 22nd and 0.5 x 10 to the 22nd P by noting that the slab would have mainly down-dip compression at higher viscosities and mainly down-dip tension at lower viscosities. The deviatoric stress in the slab and the fault plane between the slab and the island arc is about 200-300 bars (expressed as shear stress). The models were calibrated to the observed depth and gravity anomalies in the trench.
Nanofabrication of quantum dots on InP by in-situ etching and selective growth

Diblock copolymer lithography followed by selective growth is used for the nanofabrication of InGaAs quantum dots (QDs) on InP substrate. Stronger photoluminescence intensity is observed when in-situ CBr 4 etching is employed prior to QD growth.
Incentive-Elicited Brain Activation in Adolescents: Similarities and Differences from Young Adults

Brain motivational circuitry in human adolescence is poorly characterized. One theory holds that risky behavior in adolescence results in part from a relatively overactive ventral striatal (VS) motivational circuit that readily energizes approach toward salient appetitive cues. However, other evidence fosters a theory that this circuit is developmentally underactive, in which adolescents approach more robust incentives (such as risk taking or drug experimentation) to recruit this circuitry. To help resolve this, we compared brain activation in 12 adolescents (12-17 years of age) and 12 young adults (22-28 years of age) while they anticipated the opportunity to respond to obtain monetary gains as well as to avoid monetary losses. In both age groups, anticipation of potential gain activated portions of the VS, right insula, dorsal thalamus, and dorsal midbrain, where the magnitude of VS activation was sensitive to gain amount. Notification of gain outcomes (in contrast with missed gains) activated the mesial frontal cortex (mFC). Across all subjects, signal increase in the right nucleus accumbens during anticipation of responding for large gains independently correlated with both age and self-rated excitement about the high gain cue. In direct comparison, adolescents evidenced less recruitment of the right VS and right-extended amygdala while anticipating responding for gains (in contrast with anticipation of nongains) compared with young adults. However, brain activation after gain outcomes did not appreciably differ between age groups. These results suggest that adolescents selectively show reduced recruitment of motivational but not consummatory components of reward-directed behavior.
The Germanic Context of the Unferþ Episode

The idea that the Unferp episode in Beowuif is related to the Norse flytings is hardly a new one. It has seldom progressed much beyond the stage of suggestion, however, and even the few longer discussions have failed to make much of the connection.' The problem seems to lie on the Norse side of the equation in large part in reaching a consensus on just what constitutes a "flyting" so that we know what to measure the Unferp episode against. From this point of view, scholarly discussions of the Norse material have been particularly unsatisfactory, being for the most part narrowly historical and lexical in their orientation. Despite the fact that the Norse flyting is a readily identifiable compositional unit, it has never been subjected to a systematic formal analysis. A recent dissertation by joaquin Martinez Pizarro locates early Germanic examples of the flytings in Middle Latin sources and delineates the evolution of its scene and narrative context from Paul the Deacon to the late fornaldarsQgur, but stops short of organizing themes and analyzing structure.2 What may strike the outsider as the puzzling absence of a morphology for such an obvious category may have at least in part to do with the traditional and perhaps excessive respect paid by Scandinavianists to inherited native terminology in this case the terms senna and mannjafna6Yr, which, together with nzi6, have from the outset conditioned and inhibited scholarly discussion of the topic. Senna (related to sannr 'true') is an uncommon word in Norse which seems to mean 'quarrel.' Mannjafna6Yr ('man-comparison'), also uncommon, refers to a social practice involving the matching of two men's reputations. Both terms are thought to have legal origins: senna as a verbal effort on the part of one person to prove the guilt of another, and mannjafna&Yr as an effort on
Cross-cultural Development and Evaluation: A model for becoming aware of implicit assumptions

One of the fundamental challenges that each researcher or educator faces is dealing with hidden assumptions they hold. These assumptions place constraints on their perception and expectations (e.g. potentially limiting the kinds of questions they ask), and often put them at a disadvantage when working in foreign contexts. These implicit assumptions deeply influence how they perceive things and how they work. We assert that in our academic and professional discourse, we need to be more aware of and explicit about these assumptions and the ways in which they influence how we see and what we do. In this paper, we provide a basis for this argument and an example of a model that facilitates activity which helps to foster an increased awareness of the hidden assumptions we bring into cross-cultural development and evaluation efforts.
Debris flow initiation in proglacial gullies on Mount Rainier, Washington

article i nfo Effects of climate change, retreating glaciers, and changing storm patterns on debris flow hazards concern managers in the Cascade Range (USA) and mountainous areas worldwide. During an intense rainstorm in November 2006, seven debris flows initiated from proglacial gullies of separate basins on the flanks of Mount Rainier. Gully heads at glacier termini and widespread failure of gully walls imply that overland flow was trans- formed into debris flow along gullies. We characterized gully change and morphology, and assessed spatial distributions of debris flows to infer the processes and conditions for debris flow initiation. Slopes at gully heads were greater than ~0.35 m m �1 (19°) and exhibited a significant negative relationship with drainage area. A break in slope-drainage area trends among debris flow gullies also occurs at ~0.35 m m �1 , representing a possible transition to fluvial sediment transport and erosion. An interpreted hybrid model of debris flow initi- ation involves bed failure near gully heads followed by sediment recruitment from gully walls along gully lengths. Estimates of sediment volume loss from gully walls demonstrate the importance of sediment inputs along gullies for increasing debris flow volumes. Basin comparisons revealed significantly steeper drainage networks and higher elevations in debris flow-producing than non-debris flow-producing proglacial areas. The high slopes and elevations of debris flow-producing proglacial areas reflect positive slope-elevation trends for the Mount Rainier volcano. Glacier extent therefore controls the slope distribution in proglacial areas, and thus potential for debris flow generation. As a result, debris flow activity may increase as glacier termini retreat onto slopes inclined at angles above debris flow initiation thresholds.
A Change in the Structure of Vβ Chromatin Associated with TCR β Allelic Exclusion

To investigate chromatin control of TCR β rearrangement and allelic exclusion, we analyzed TCR β chromatin structure in double negative (DN) thymocytes, which are permissive for TCR β recombination, and in double positive (DP) thymocytes, which are postallelic exclusion and nonpermissive for Vβ to DβJβ recombination. Histone acetylation mapping and DNase I sensitivity studies indicate Vβ and DβJβ segments to be hyperacetylated and accessible in DN thymocytes. However, they are separated from each other by hypoacetylated and inaccessible trypsinogen chromatin. The transition from DN to DP is accompanied by selective down-regulation of Vβ acetylation and accessibility. The level of DP acetylation and accessibility is minimal for five of six Vβ segments studied but remains substantial for one. Hence, the observed changes in Vβ chromatin structure appear sufficient to account for allelic exclusion of many Vβ segments. They may contribute to, but not by themselves fully account for, allelic exclusion of others.
Confined placental mosaicism and intrauterine growth retardation: A case-control analysis of placentas at delivery☆

Abstract OBJECTIVE: Our purpose was to determine the frequency of confined placental mosaicism in newborns with unexplained infrauterine growth retardation compared with infants with appropriate in utero growth. STUDY DESIGN: Amnion, chorion, and villi from 12 growth-retarded infants and 24 appropriately grown, matched controls were karyotyped. Fluorescence in situ hybridization with chromosome-specific probes was then used to confirm the karyotypic abnormality at additional uncultured placental sites. RESULTS: Karyotype analysis revealed placental mosaicism involving either aneuploidy or polyploidy in three of 12 (25%) cases versus two of 24 (8.3%) controls. Fluorescence in situ hybridization confirmed the caryotypic abnormalities in the placentas from growth-retarded infants only. CONCLUSION: Confined placental mosaicism was identified three times more frequently from placentas of growth-retarded infants compared with those of newborns with appropriate growth. Molecular studies of the placentas suggested a wider distribution of cells with abnormal karyotypes in cases compared with controls and support a biologic influence of placental mosaicism on fetal growth.
Regulation of major histocompatibility complex class II gene expression in trophoblast cells

Trophoblast cells are unique because they are one of the few mammalian cell types that do not express major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II antigens, either constitutively or after exposure to IFN-γ. The absence of MHC class II antigen expression on trophoblast cells has been postulated to be one of the essential mechanisms by which the semi-allogeneic fetus evades immune rejection reactions by the maternal immune system. Consistent with this hypothesis, trophoblast cells from the placentas of women suffering from chronic inflammation of unknown etiology and spontaneous recurrent miscarriages have been reported to aberrantly express MHC class II antigens. The lack of MHC class II antigen expression on trophoblast cells is due to silencing of expression of the class II transactivator (CIITA), a transacting factor that is essential for constitutive and IFN-γ-inducible MHC class II gene transcription. Transfection of trophoblast cells with CIITA expression vectors activates both MHC class II and class Ia antigen expression, which confers on trophoblast cells both the ability to activate helper T cells, and sensitivity to lysis by cytotoxic T lymphocytes. Collectively, these studies strongly suggest that stringent silencing of CIITA (and therefore MHC class II) gene expression in trophoblast cells is critical for the prevention of immune rejection responses against the fetus by the maternal immune system. The focus of this review is to summarize studies examining the novel mechanisms by which CIITA is silenced in trophoblast cells. The elucidation of the silencing of CIITA in trophoblast cells may shed light on how the semi-allogeneic fetus evades immune rejection by the maternal immune system during pregnancy.
Transformation of Acyclic Alkenes to Hydrido Carbynes by (PNPR)Re Complexes

Synthesis of (PNPR)ReOCl2 (PNPR = (R2PCH2SiMe2)2N, R = iPr, Cy, and tBu) from (Me2S)2ReOCl3 and (PNPR)MgCl is described. Magnesium and H2 convert (PNPR)ReOCl2 first to (PNPR)ReO(H)2 and then to (PNPR)Re(H)4, the last being an operationally unsaturated species which can bind PMe3 or p-toluidine. Acyclic alkenes react with (PNPR)Re(H)4 at 22 °C to give first (PNPR)Re(H)2(olefin) and then (PNPR)ReH(carbyne), in equilibrium with its η2-olefin adduct. Re can also migrate to the terminal carbon of internal olefins to form a carbyne complex. Allylic C−SiMe3 or C−NH2 bonds are not broken, but OEt, OPh, and F vinyl substituents (X) are ultimately cleaved from carbon to give the Re⋮C−CH3 complex and liberate HX. DFT calculations, together with detection of intermediates for certain olefins, help to define a mechanism for these conversions.
New directions in emissions trading: the potential contribution of new institutional economics

Abstract Once an arcane topic even among environmental economists, emissions trading systems have substantially increased during this past decade in the USA. Moreover, the implementation of these systems has necessitated increased involvement of professionals in many fields besides economics. This paper reviews the practical experience of the six major types of emissions trading systems, focusing on credit market development, participation and results, including transaction costs. Five more recent applications of emissions trading also are considered, as well as the possibility of inter-pollutant trading. While inter-pollutant trading has been successfully used for chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), the applicability of this experience is probably very limited. Additionally, it would be highly premature to attempt an evaluation of these newer emissions trading systems, some of which have yet to be even partially implemented. In order to improve these latter and future programs, the paper considers the potential contribution of the New Institutional Economics (NIE) to emissions trading. The NIE is used to develop theoretical insights and a series of predictions about the performance of a range of emissions trading systems.
Navigating a Way through Plurality and Social Responsibility

Teachers need to have a clearer understanding of the dynamic process effecting change in culture and identity if they are to overcome fears about teaching diversity. This article draws on Eastern and Western insights on culture to clarify its dynamic process. In particular, teachers need to be aware of the two phases of culture: in one it appears as an organic integrity that suffers violence when any aspect of it is changed, removed or replaced; in the other it appears as a mechanical assemblage of parts momentarily caught in a particular relationship, comfortable with change. Each moment requires appropriate curriculum planning and pedagogical practice. Crucial to achieving that end is keeping the two phases distinct while exploring and exposing their relationship in culture and identity transformation. This will help a great deal to alleviate teachers’fears about teaching diversity or multiculturalism.
A model study of wave action on a cylindrical island

The heights and phase relationships of non-breaking ocean waves about a cylindrical island were shown by a model study to be in agreement with the corresponding diffraction theory. The variation of pressure with depth, however, was found to be more rapid than the hyperbolic cosine variation which has been used for forces on piling.
Natural history of benign prostatic hypertrophy and acute urinary retention

Twenty-six patients with prostatism due to benign prostatic hypertrophy were evaluated prospectively every three to six months for three years. Using both subjective and objective criteria significant deterioration was demonstrated. The rate of deterioration appeared independent of prostatic size. In the individual patient progression was variable. More than half of the patients were unchanged or improved after two years. Acute urinary retention appeared independent of the degree of prostatism and therefore unpredictable. The methods can be used to evaluate medical treatments of benign prostatic hypertrophy.
The impact of vaporized nanoemulsions on ultrasound-mediated ablation

The clinical feasibility of using high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) for ablation of solid tumors is limited by the high acoustic pressures and long treatment times required. The presence of microbubbles during sonication can increase the absorption of acoustic energy and accelerate heating. However, formation of microbubbles within the tumor tissue remains a challenge. Phase-shift nanoemulsions (PSNE) have been developed as a means for producing microbubbles within tumors. PSNE are emulsions of submicron-sized, lipid-coated, and liquid perfluorocarbon droplets that can be vaporized into microbubbles using short ( 5 MPa) acoustic pulses. In this study, the impact of vaporized phase-shift nanoemulsions on the time and acoustic power required for HIFU-mediated thermal lesion formation was investigated in vitro. PSNE containing dodecafluoropentane were produced with narrow size distributions and mean diameters below 200 nm using a combination of sonication and extrusion. PSNE was dispersed in albumin-containing polyacrylamide gel phantoms for experimental tests. Albumin denatures and becomes opaque at temperatures above 58°C, enabling visual detection of lesions formed from denatured albumin. PSNE were vaporized using a 30-cycle, 3.2-MHz, at an acoustic power of 6.4 W (free-field intensity of 4,586 W/cm2) pulse from a single-element, focused high-power transducer. The vaporization pulse was immediately followed by a 15-s continuous wave, 3.2-MHz signal to induce ultrasound-mediated heating. Control experiments were conducted using an identical procedure without the vaporization pulse. Lesion formation was detected by acquiring video frames during sonication and post-processing the images for analysis. Broadband emissions from inertial cavitation (IC) were passively detected with a focused, 2-MHz transducer. Temperature measurements were acquired using a needle thermocouple. Bubbles formed at the HIFU focus via PSNE vaporization enhanced HIFU-mediated heating. Broadband emissions detected during HIFU exposure coincided in time with measured accelerated heating, which suggested that IC played an important role in bubble-enhanced heating. In the presence of bubbles, the acoustic power required for the formation of a 9-mm3 lesion was reduced by 72% and the exposure time required for the onset of albumin denaturation was significantly reduced (by 4 s), provided that the PSNE volume fraction in the polyacrylamide gel was at least 0.008%. The time or acoustic power required for lesion formation in gel phantoms was dramatically reduced by vaporizing PSNE into bubbles. These results suggest that PSNE may improve the efficiency of HIFU-mediated thermal ablation of solid tumors; thus, further investigation is warranted to determine whether bubble-enhanced HIFU may potentially become a viable option for cancer therapy.
Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR-4) regulates renal ion transport.

BACTERIAL INFECTION OF THE kidney causes tubular dysfunction evidenced by reduced urinary concentration and impaired acidification. The innate immune response/Toll-like receptor (TLR) pathway is known to mediate the initial inflammatory signaling response during bacterial infection. TLRs are a family of 11 plasma membrane glycoproteins that bind a variety of pathogen-associated and derived molecules (1, 10). Some members of the TLR family are expressed in the kidney, including the vasculature and renal tubules, with specific cellular localization (2, 3, 9, 12). Several studies have demonstrated a functional role of TLRs in initiating inflammatory responses in the kidney by a variety of stimuli including bacterial infection, ischemiareperfusion, and toxic injury (2). However, a direct effect of TLR signaling in rapid regulation of ion transport along the nephron was previously unknown.
The Influence of a Novel Needleless Valve on Central Venous Catheter Occlusions in Pediatric Patients

Abstract Background Although it is common for central line catheters to develop a thrombotic occlusion, pediatric patients are at especially high risk of occlusion due to smaller vessels, smaller-gauge catheters, and slower rates of infusion. Mitigating catheter occlusions is costly, requiring tissue plasminogen activator, supplies, and nursing time. Our facility tested a novel neutral displacement needle-free valve designed to reduce occlusion. Methodology The organization determined a baseline occlusion rate for Hickman/Broviac catheters, in our 38-bed inpatient hematology/oncology department and our outpatient hematology/oncology clinic from August 2010 through October 2010. In 2011, a premarket test of the Neutron device (ICU Medical, San Clemente, CA) was conducted on the units. Based on the positive trial results, it was decided to implement the device housewide in December 2012. Results A comparison of baseline central line complete occlusion rates from August to October 2010 with Neutron trial data from July to October 2011. This pilot project demonstrated a 74.3% reduction (from a rate of 3.82 to a rate of 0.98) in all hematology/oncology department Hickman and Broviac complete catheter occlusions. Subsequently, comparing 5 months of housewide occlusion data from June through October 2012 to 2013, complete occlusions fell by 32.1% (from a rate of 1.56 to a rate of 1.06). Conclusions The use of the Neutron needle-free catheter patency device was associated with a reduction in complete occlusions. The corresponding reduction in treatment delays, nursing time spent managing occluded catheters, and fewer needlesticks to patients likely translates to financial benefit for the organization and improved patient and family satisfaction.
Structural requirements for protein-catalyzed annealing of U4 and U6 RNAs during di-snRNP assembly

Base-pairing of U4 and U6 snRNAs during di-snRNP assembly requires large-scale remodeling of RNA structure that is chaperoned by the U6 snRNP protein Prp24. We investigated the mechanism of U4/U6 annealing in vitro using an assay that enables visualization of ribonucleoprotein complexes and faithfully recapitulates known in vivo determinants for the process. We find that annealing, but not U6 RNA binding, is highly dependent on the electropositive character of a 20 A-wide groove on the surface of Prp24. During annealing, we observe the formation of a stable ternary complex between U4 and U6 RNAs and Prp24, indicating that displacement of Prp24 in vivo requires additional factors. Mutations that stabilize the U6 ‘telestem’ helix increase annealing rates by up to 15-fold, suggesting that telestem formation is rate-limiting for U4/U6 pairing. The Lsm2–8 complex, which binds adjacent to the telestem at the 3′ end of U6, provides a comparable rate enhancement. Collectively, these data identify domains of the U6 snRNP that are critical for one of the first steps in assembly of the megaDalton U4/U6.U5 tri-snRNP complex, and lead to a dynamic model for U4/U6 pairing that involves a striking degree of evolved cooperativity between protein and RNA.
Accounting for intrusive thoughts in PTSD: Contributions of cognitive control and deliberate regulation strategies.

Abstract Background Persistent, trauma-related intrusive thoughts are common in individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Automatic aspects of cognitive functioning (including executive functioning) and maladaptive deliberate attempts at cognitive regulation have been proposed as individual difference factors that may perpetuate intrusive thoughts. The current study sought to examine the joint contribution of these two factors on intrusive thoughts in PTSD. Method Forty-two women with PTSD completed an executive functioning assessment followed by a thought suppression task. Intrusive thoughts (frequency and duration), as well as participants’ use of specific cognitive regulation strategies (avoidance-based thought regulation strategies; TRS), were measured during the task. Hierarchical linear regression was used to examine the interaction of executive functioning and TRS on intrusive thoughts. Results: Greater use of TRS was associated with greater intrusive thought persistence for those with low executive functioning, but not those with high executive functioning. Limitations Data was collected cross-sectionally and the laboratory thought suppression task may not correspond to naturalistic thought regulation. Conclusions Results are consistent with prior literature suggesting that certain responses deployed by individuals to control intrusive thoughts may be unhelpful, but that a higher level of cognitive capacity may mitigate this effect. Implications of these findings for recent models of cognition in PTSD are discussed.
What is Advertising Content Worth? Evidence from the Motion Pictures Industry

The large literature on the impact of advertising on consumers and firm behavior in marketing and economics has tried to distinguish between the informative and the persuasive roles of advertising. The extant literature typically uses advertising expenditure and implicitly assumes that advertising content is homogeneous. We analyze the contents of print ads in the motion picture industry to see whether the persuasive content or the informative content is more impactful on revenues. We estimate a simultaneous equation system via the GMM method and find that the persuasive content (role) of advertising is more significant than the informative content (role). Overall, we find that content elements matter in different ways. External validation components – persuasive contents, are much more important than other ad contents for predicting revenues and returns. Thus, we provide an interesting insight to this debate.
The Effect of Action Observation Training on Sit to Walk with Chronic Stroke Patients

Purpose: This study was performed to examine the effect of action observation training on sit to-walk times in chronic stroke patients. Methods: Twelve stroke patients were randomly allocated to two groups, as follows: an action observation training (AOT) group and a scenery picture observation (SPO) group. The AOT group was engaged in video observation for 2 minutes 30 seconds with 12 ADL functional activities related to the sit-to–walk task: physical training was carried out in two repetitions lasting 2 minutes 30 seconds. The landscape imagery control group observed landscape picture for 2 minutes 30 seconds and then carried out the same physical training. The intervention involved a total of 12 sessions over 4 weeks, and each session lasted 30 minutes. The pre and post-tests measured the timed up and go test (TUG), Sit to stand test (STS), and Dynamic gait index (DGI). The Wilcoxon signed ranks test was used to compare pre-test and post-test result, and the Mann-Whitney U test was employed for comparison between groups. Results: The TUG time was significantly different between the AOT group and the SPO group. According to the findings, the experimental group’s TUG was significantly decreased (p<0.05). In comparison of the two groups, there was no significant in STS or DGI between the AOT group and SPO group. Conclusion: This study showed that the intervention can be used to decrease TUG time. Our research suggests that action observation training has a positive effect on sit-to-walk times in patients with chronic stroke.