cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and cleavage of rauscher leukemia virus precursor proteins in synchronized cell

Abstract Viral precursor protein synthesis in cells chronically infected with Rauscher murine leukemia virus (R-MLV) was shown to occur in three distinct waves corresponding to the G 1 , middle S, and la2 phases of the cell cycle. During these times, the synthesis of viral-specific proteins amounted to between 4.5 and 5.5% of total cell protein synthesis in the pulse-labeled cells. The G, wave of viral precursor synthesis did not require new viral RNA synthesis, while the later two waves were apparently dependent upon the presence of newly made viral RNA. High resolution SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of immunoprecipitates from pulse-labeled and pulsed, chase-incubated cells identified the viral-specific proteins made in each wave of synthesis as those precursors and viral cleavage products characteristic of nonsynchronized cells infected with R-MLV.
The Earth's gravity field and plate tectonics

Abstract A recent decomposition of the Earth's gravity field has allowed mass anomaly sources spatially related to plate tectonic features to be distinguished from those mass anomaly sources that are not. The earth's largest mass anomalies are not related. The mass anomalies contributing to the degree 2–3 field are inferred to be the result of topography at the core-mantle boundary, produce the world's largest geoid anomalies, and are unrelated to the plate tectonics occurring at our planet's surface. The degree 4–10 field shows major narrow bands of positive geoid anomalies with marked coincidence everywhere with plate convergence zones. The degree 4–10 mass anomaly appears to lie in the lower mantle beneath plate convergence zones, below the teleseismically determined downgoing subducted slabs, and may be an important driving force for plate tectonics, contributing to the stabilization of the location of subduction zones through time. Subtracting the degree 10 field from observed data yields residual anomalies. Both the residual geoid and gravity anomalies result entirely from mass anomalies that lie in the outer part of the Earth. The residual geoid anomalies have much lower magnitude than those of the degree 2–3 and 4–10 fields. Axes of spreading in the Indian Ocean, in the North Atlantic, and partially in the South Atlantic, lie along centers of positive residual geoid and gravity anomalies. The East Pacific Rise is without expression presumably because of its fast spreading rate with broad topography. Fracture zones are commonly well-defined because of their linearity, although their geoid and gravity amplitudes are small. Amongst spreading centers (without superimposed hot spots), fracture zones, and subduction zones, the subduction zones have the largest residual gravity anomalies. Although their residual geoid anomalies are generally less than 20 m, their residual gravity anomalies of 200 to 350 mGal show them to be the sites of the largest magnitude gravity anomalies of our planet. Residual geoid anomalies associated with the elevated topography of hot spot features reach 22 m.
Fe‐nitrilotriacetic acid—binding proteins associated with rat liver plasma membrane

The uptake of nontransferrin-bound iron by hepatocytes is known to occur and may contribute to the deposition of iron and resulting injury during hemochromatosis. To examine the proteins that may function in the transport of nontransferrin-bound iron, the properties of FeNTA- binding to rat liver basolateral plasma membranes were characterized. The binding of 55FeNTA to purified liver basolateral plasma membranes was measured using a simple centrifugation assay. The binding activity could be solubilized with 0.1% octylglucoside; apparent molecular weight Mapp approximately 210 kd for the binding complex was determined by gel filtration chromatography. Immobilized metal affinity chromatography was used to further purify binding protein(s) from rat liver plasma membranes and at least six polypeptides were identified by silver staining. If associated in a stoichiometric complex, the molecular mass of these proteins would predict a size of approximately 227 kd in fairly close agreement with the gel filtration experiments. The characterization of FeNTA-binding proteins associated with basolateral membranes is the first step towards understanding elements responsible for the uptake of nontransferrin-bound iron by the liver. (Hepatology 1996 Oct;24(4):934-8)
Policing and risk of overdose mortality in urban neighborhoods.

Background Accidental drug overdose is a major cause of mortality among drug users. Fears of police arrest may deter witnesses of drug overdose from calling for medical help and may be a determinant of drug overdose mortality. To our knowledge, no studies have empirically assessed the relation between levels of policing and drug overdose mortality. We hypothesized that levels of police activity, congruent with fears of police arrest, are positively associated with drug overdose mortality.
Generalization practices in qualitative research: a mixed methods case study

The purpose of this mixed methods case study was to examine the generalization practices in qualitative research published in a reputable qualitative journal. In order to accomplish this, all qualitative research articles published in Qualitative Report since its inception in 1990 (n = 273) were examined. A quantitative analysis of the all 125 empirical qualitative research articles revealed that a significant proportion (i.e., 29.6%) of studies involved generalizations beyond the underlying sample that were made inappropriately by the author(s). A qualitative analysis identified the types of over-generalizations that occurred, which included making general recommendations for future practice and providing general policy implications based only on a few cases. Thus, a significant proportion of articles published in Qualitative Report lack what we call interpretive consistency.
Probing the limitations of the fluorous content for tag-mediated microarray formation

The synthesis of a di-perfluorohexyl tag is reported for use in a fluorous-based carbohydrate microarray. A comparative microarray study with this di-perfluorohexyl tag and a mono-perfluorooctyl and mono-perfluorohexyl tag found the increased fluorous content conducive to better spot morphology and easier washing protocols without precluding reuse of the fluorous slide.
Analysis of n-octyl(phenyl)-N,N-diisobutylcarbamoylmethylphosphine oxide and TRUEX process solvent by gas and liquid chromatography

Abstract Complementary analytical procedures using capillary gas chromatography (GC) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) have been developed for the analysis of the TRUEX process solvents (CMPO-TBP-tetrachloroethylene or normal paraffinic hydrocarbons) and the extractant CMPO. GC analyses are accomplished in 20 min using a 15 m × 0.25 μm I.D. DB-5 capillary column with flame ionization detection. The analysis requires derivatization with diazomethane. HPLC analyses are performed in 10 min using a C 18 reversed-phase column and a mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile-water-triethylamine (79:29.5:0.5) with refractive index and ultraviolet detection. The methods provide information regarding the presence of acidic and neutral impurities in stock extractant, fresh process solvent, and recovered TRUEX solvent.
The two-particle correlation function in a finite Fermi gas model

Abstract The properties of F(ν), the one-dimensional analog of the Fourier transform of a certain two-particle correlation function of interest in the theory of muon capture by nuclei (as well as other situations), have been investigated for various models. The models consist of N independent particles in a one-dimensional box of finite size, and the models differ in the boundary conditions imposed at the edges of the box. The functions F(ν) for these models, for the infinite Fermi gas model and for a “finite Fermi gas” model are compared and found to differ substantially. As the number of particles in the box increases, the difference between F(ν) for each of the models and F(ν) for the infinite Fermi gas vanishes, but the magnitude (and sign) of this difference depends strongly upon the nuclear model. Because of the finite nuclear size, F(ν) must possess a power series expansion in ν2, a property not shared by the infinite Fermi gas model, but the coefficient of ν2 is again found to depend strongly upon the nuclear model.
Dynamics of spiking neurons: between homogeneity and synchrony

Randomly connected networks of neurons driven by Poisson inputs are often assumed to produce "homogeneous" dynamics, characterized by largely independent firing and approximable by diffusion processes. At the same time, it is well known that such networks can fire synchronously. Between these two much studied scenarios lies a vastly complex dynamical landscape that is relatively unexplored. In this paper, we discuss a phenomenon which commonly manifests in these intermediate regimes, namely brief spurts of spiking activity which we call multiple firing events (MFE). These events do not depend on structured network architecture nor on structured input; they are an emergent property of the system. We came upon them in an earlier modeling paper, in which we discovered, through a careful benchmarking process, that MFEs are the single most important dynamical mechanism behind many of the V1 phenomena we were able to replicate. In this paper we explain in a simpler setting how MFEs come about, as well as their potential dynamic consequences. Although the mechanism underlying MFEs cannot easily be captured by current population dynamics models, this phenomena should not be ignored during analysis; there is a growing body of evidence that such collaborative activity may be a key towards unlocking the possible functional properties of many neuronal networks.
Clinicopathologic Correlation of Spontaneous Retinal Pigment Epithelial Tears with Choroidal Neovascular Membranes in Agerelated Macular Degeneration

Background: A correlation of the clinical and histopathologic features of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), complicated by choroidal neovascular membrane (CNVM) with spontaneous tears of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) detachment, has not been reported. Methods: Two patients with vision loss from AMD and spontaneous pigment epithelial detachment tears, involving the fovea with serous or hemorrhagic neurosensory retinal detachments, were examined clinically. The surgically excised CNVM from each patient was examined with light microscopy. Results: The authors present two patients with clinicopathologic correlation of the ophthalmoscopic, fluorescein angiographic, and pathologic findings of spontaneous pigment epithelial detachment tears. In the surgical specimens from these two eyes, the removed tissue, presumed to be the spontaneous RPE tear with CNVMs, demonstrated a fibrovascular membrane surrounding RPE with adjacent abnormally thickened basement membrane. The RPE-basement membrane complex was folded redundantly and scrolled beneath itself. Conclusion: The authors found RPE-basement membrane abnormalities and CNVMs associated with clinically evident spontaneous pigment epithelial detachment tears. These findings support the current theories of their pathogenesis.
Solute species and equilibria in concentrated zinc chloride/hydrochloric acid solutions☆

Abstract Examination of a series of concentrated ZnCl2HClH2O solutions with chloride/zinc stoichiometries ranging from 2:1 to 6:1 and with the mole fraction of Zn2+ being 0·015 in each solution have been examined by X-ray diffraction. The mean coordination of Zn2+ in each solution is pseudotetrahedral with the ZnCl and ZnO contact distances being 2·30 and 2·05 A, respectively. The average number of chlorides tightly bonded to Zn2+ is, as expected, significantly related to the chloride/zinc and/or the chloride/water stoichiometries. The formation constant for tetrachlorozincate (II) in these solutions is ca. 80 M−2 if it is assumed that tetrachlorozincate(II) and/or dichlorodiaquozinc(II) are the principal species in each of these solutions.
Comparison of seat designs for underground mine haulage vehicles using the absorbed power and ISO 2631-1(1985)-based ACGIH threshold limit methods

Based on prior mine vehicle studies of operators' exposure to whole-body vibration, researchers from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) evaluated four seat designs on mine haulage vehicles, with regard to roadway-induced jarring/jolting and operator comfort. Investigators collected objective and subjective data from vehicle operators on two existing and two NIOSH seat designs. This study included time and frequency response data using accelerometers and a data recorder, operator perceptions of jarring/jolting and discomfort levels using a linear visual analogue scale, and data from a questionnaire developed for this study. Results from the analysis of subjective data show that operators generally favoured the NIOSH-designed seats over the existing seats. The results of analyses from the absorbed power method and the threshold limit method, based on ISO 2631-1 (ISO, 1985), support the premise that NIOSH seat designs are superior to the existing vehicle seat designs on both models of mine shuttle cars used in the study. The NIOSH seat designs, featuring viscoelastic foam padding, were more effective in reducing vibration energy for operators exposed to vehicle jarring/jolting. In this paper, the performances of the NIOSH and existing seat designs are compared relative to the operator's exposure to vehicle vibration (mainly jarring/jolting).
UNC-6/Netrin and SLT-1/Slit Guidance Cues Orient Axon Outgrowth Mediated by MIG-10/RIAM/Lamellipodin

Summary Background Axon migrations are guided by extracellular cues that can act as repellants or attractants. However, the logic underlying the manner through which attractive and repulsive responses are determined is unclear. Many extracellular guidance cues, and the cellular components that mediate their signals, have been implicated in both types of responses. Results Genetic analyses indicate that MIG-10/RIAM/lamellipodin, a cytoplasmic adaptor protein, functions downstream of the attractive guidance cue UNC-6/netrin and the repulsive guidance cue SLT-1/slit to direct the ventral migration of the AVM and PVM axons in C. elegans . Furthermore, overexpression of MIG-10 in the absence of UNC-6 and SLT-1 induces a multipolar phenotype with undirected outgrowths. Addition of either UNC-6 or SLT-1 causes the neurons to become monopolar. Moreover, the ability of UNC-6 or SLT-1 to direct the axon ventrally is enhanced by the MIG-10 overexpression. We also demonstrate that an interaction between MIG-10 and UNC-34, a protein that promotes actin-filament extension, is important in the response to guidance cues and that MIG-10 colocalizes with actin in cultured cells, where it can induce the formation of lamellipodia. Conclusions We conclude that MIG-10 mediates the guidance of AVM and PVM axons in response to the extracellular UNC-6 and SLT-1 guidance cues. The attractive and repulsive guidance cues orient MIG-10-dependant axon outgrowth to cause a directional response.
Myocardial Fas ligand expression increases susceptibility to AZT-induced cardiomyopathy.

Background Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and myocarditis occur in many HIV-infected individuals, resulting in symptomatic heart failure in up to 5% of patients. Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has significantly reduced morbidity and mortality of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), but has resulted in an increase in cardiac and skeletal myopathies. Methods and Results In order to investigate whether the HAART component zidovudine (3′-azido-2′,3′-deoxythymidine; AZT) triggers the Fas-dependent cell-death pathway and cause cytoskeletal disruption in a murine model of DCM, 8-week-old transgenic (expressing Fas ligand in the myocardium: FasL Tg) and non-transgenic (NTg) mice received water ad libitum containing different concentrations of AZT (0, 0.07, 0.2, and 0.7 mg/ml). After 6 weeks, cardiac function was assessed by echocardiography and morphology was assessed by histopathologic and immunohistochemical methods. NTg and untreated FasL Tg mice showed little or no change in cardiac structure or function. In contrast, AZT-treated FasL Tg mice developed cardiac dilation and depressed cardiac function in a dose-dependent manner, with concomitant inflammatory infiltration of both ventricles. These changes were associated with an increased sarcolemmal expression of Fas and FasL, as well as increased activation of caspase 3, translocation of calpain 1 to the sarcolemma and sarcomere, and increased numbers of cells undergoing apoptosis. These were associated with changes in dystrophin and cardiac troponin I localization, as well as loss of sarcolemmal integrity. Conclusions The expression of Fas ligand in the myocardium, as identified in HIV-positive patients, might increase the susceptibility to HAART-induced cardiomyopathy due to activation of apoptotic pathways, resulting in cardiac dilation and dysfunction.
Theory Construction as Disciplined Imagination

The process of theory construction in organizational studies is portrayed as imagination disciplined by evolutionary processes analogous to artificial selection. The quality of theory produced is predicted to vary as a function of the accuracy and detail present in the problem statement that triggers theory building, the number of and independence among the conjectures that attempt to solve the problem, and the number and diversity of selection criteria used to test the conjectures. It is argued that interest is a substitute for validation during theory construction, middle range theories are a necessity if the process is to be kept manageable, and representations such as metaphors are inevitable, given the complexity of the subject matter.
Full-chip through-silicon-via interfacial crack analysis and optimization for 3D IC

In this work, we propose an efficient and accurate full-chip through-silicon-via (TSV) interfacial crack analysis flow and design optimization methodology to alleviate TSV interfacial crack problems in 3D ICs. First, we analyze TSV interfacial crack at TSV/dielectric liner interface caused by TSV-induced thermo-mechanical stress. Then, we explore the impact of TSV placement in conjunction with various associated structures such as landing pad and dielectric liner on TSV interfacial crack. Next, we present a full-chip TSV interfacial crack analysis methodology based on design of experiments (DOE) and response surface method (RSM). Finally, we propose a design optimization methodology to mitigate the mechanical reliability problems in 3D ICs.
Characterization of Three Isoforms of a 9kDa γD-Crystallin Fragment Isolated From Human Lenses

Abstract The purpose of this study was to determine whether a 9kDa γD-crystallin fragment, on in vivo post-translational modifications, exists as isoforms in the water soluble protein fraction of human lenses. In this study, three isoforms of the 9kDa polypeptide (named as 9kDa I, II and III) were identified and purified. In addition, the possible modified amino acids and their locations in the three isoforms were identified. The purification of the three isoforms was achieved by four steps which included separation of a mixture of crystallin fragments from the intact crystallins by a Sephadex G-50 chromatography under denaturing conditions, followed by purification of the 9kDa polypeptide isoforms by a non-denaturing gel electrophoresis, preparative SDS–PAGE and HPLC using a C-18 column. Each of the isoforms showed a single protein band and a single peak during SDS–PAGE and HPLC analyses respectively. The three isoforms on their partial N-terminal sequence analyses, exhibited sequence identical to γD-crystallin starting at residue no. 87 suggesting that the isoforms contained residues no. 87 to 173 of γD-crystallin. On comparison of the amino acid compositions of the isoforms with that of the identical 9kDa γD-crystallin fragment, the isoforms showed relatively lower amino contents of Asp, Arg, Leu and Tyr residues suggesting modifications of these residues in the isoforms. To identify the specific regions at which these amino acid residues were modified, the Western blot analysis with six site-specific polyclonal antibodies to six regions of the 9kDa γD-crystallin polypeptide was carried out. Of the six antibodies raised, one was to the N-terminal region (residue nos 87–95; named as anti-9kDaN-Ab), second to the C-terminal region (residue nos 165–173; named as anti-9kDaC-Ab) and four to the four different middle regions [named as anti-9kDa M1 (nos 94–100)-Ab, M2 (nos 114–120)-Ab, M3 (nos 137–143)-Ab and M4 (nos 149–154)-Ab] of the polypeptide. The Western blot analysis suggested that the 9kDa I and 9kDa II isoforms had modified amino acid residues in the regions of residue nos 114–120 and 165–173 whereas the 9kDa III isoform in the regions of residue nos 114–120, 137–143, 149–154 and 165–173. It was also determined whether the 9kDa isoforms exhibit an age-related appearance in human lenses. Western blot analysis as above of the WS-proteins from lenses from donors of different ages was carried out. On comparison of these results with an identical Western blot analysis of the three purified 9kDa isoforms, I, II and III, it was inferred that the 9kDa isoform III appeared earlier than other isoforms during aging in human lenses.
In vivo biosynthesis of melanotropins and related peptides in the pars intermedia of Xenopus laevis

Abstract To study in vivo biosynthesis of pars intermedia peptides in Xenopus laevis , [ 3 H]lysine was administered by an osmotic minipump via a cannula inserted near the pituitary gland. Following extraction of the neurointermediate lobe, high-performance liquid chromatography was used to separate the newly synthesized peptides. In black-background adapted animals, [ 3 H]lysine was incorporated into a number of peptides. The elution characteristics of these peptides corresponded exactly with those of peptides synthesized during in vitro incubation of neurointermediate lobes, and which were identified as des- N α-acetyl-α-MSH, a γ-MSH-like peptide, two corticotropin-like intermediate lobe peptides, and two forms of endorphin. In white-background adapted Xenopus , practically no synthesis of pars intermedia peptides occurred. Transfer of black-adapted toads to a white background at the beginning of infusion led to storage of newly synthesized peptides. When such animals were maintained on a white background for 10 days, des- N α-acetyl-α-MSH, but not α-MSH, was present in the pars intermedia; this supports the notion that des- N α-acetyl-α-MSH constitutes the “storage form” of α-MSH.
Young women's adolescent experiences of oral sex: Relation of age of initiation to sexual motivation, sexual coercion, and psychological functioning

Research examining oral sex during adolescence tends to investigate only potential negative consequences without considering its place in sexual development or distinctions between cunnilingus and fellatio. Using retrospective reports from 418 undergraduate women, we examined the relations among young women's ages of initiation of both cunnilingus and fellatio and sexual motives, experiences of sexual coercion, and indicators of psychological functioning. Age at cunnilingus initiation was unrelated to sexual coercion or psychological functioning; however it was related to engaging in sex for personal stimulation and gratification (personal drive motive) and to feel agentic, assertive, and skillful (power motive). Age at fellatio initiation was related to feelings of inferiority compared to others and a devaluing of the self (interpersonal sensitivity). Findings challenge the unilateral assumption that all adolescent sexual activity is negative and indicate the need for future research distinguishing between cunnilingus and fellatio.
Adolescent mental health: the role of youth and college pastors

The present study investigates the gatekeeping role of youth and college pastors, specifically exploring their psychological training, perceptions, attitudes, and interactions concerning adolescent congregants' mental illness. Texas youth and college pastors were anonymously surveyed regarding referral patterns, mental health interventions and contact, adolescent mental health perceptions, and means of collaboration. While the sample reported actively working with numerous adolescent mental health issues, the majority did not feel qualified to work with significant psychopathology. Despite this, they reported using various intervention methods, with the most common being initial counselling followed by a referral. Although the sample frequently referred to other professionals, they described many perceived barriers in collaborating with others in the mental health field. Overall, a positive role exists for youth and college pastors in adolescent mental health; however, tensions and conflicts between pasto...
A Novel Off-Center Paddle Impeller (OPI) Dissolution Testing System for Reproducible Dissolution Testing of Solid Dosage Forms

ABSTRACT: Dissolution testing is routinely conducted in the pharmaceutical industry to provide in vitro drug release information for quality control purposes. The most common dissolution testing system for solid dosage forms is the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Dissolution Testing Apparatus 2. This apparatus is very sensitive to the initial location of the tablet, which cannot be controlled because the tablet is dropped into the vessel at the beginning of the test and it may rest at random locations at the vessel's bottom. In this work, a modified Apparatus 2 in which the impeller was placed 8 mm off center in the vessel was designed and tested. This new design was termed “OPI” for “off-center paddle impeller.” Dissolution tests were conducted with the OPI apparatus for nine different tablet locations using both disintegrating tablets (prednisone) and nondisintegrating tablets (salicylic acid). The dissolution profiles in the OPI apparatus were largely independent of the tablet location at the vessel's bottom, whereas those obtained in the Standard System generated statistically different profiles depending on the tablet location. The newly proposed OPI system can effectively eliminate artifacts generated by random settling of the tablet at the vessel's bottom, thus making the test more robust. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association.
Analytic integral equation theory for the critical properties of homopolymer fluids

We apply the analytic version of the polymer reference interaction site model theory to determine the critical properties of homopolymer fluids. The Gaussian thread model is used throughout, together with a Yukawa form for the attractive interaction between chain segments. Atomiclike as well as molecular closures are employed, and results are presented using both the compressibility and free-energy route approaches to the thermodynamics. Predictions derived based on different closure approximations for the chain length (N) dependence of the theta and critical temperatures, and of the critical density, are compared with the results of simulations of the liquid-vapor equilibrium in homopolymer systems, as well as with experimental results for the demixing transition in polymer solutions. The large N asymptotic scaling laws, and finite size corrections, for the critical properties depend strongly on the closure employed for treating attractive interactions, and for all cases studied significant deviations from the mean-field Flory–Huggins lattice theory are found. The importance of simultaneously including fluctuation effects associated with both the repulsive and attractive interactions is demonstrated. Model calculations are also presented for the liquid-vapor spinodal and coexistence curves.
Transcriptional regulation and metabolism

Understanding organisms from a systems perspective is essential for predicting cellular behaviour as well as designing gene-metabolic circuits for novel functions. The structure, dynamics and interactions of cellular networks are all vital components of systems biology. To facilitate investigation of these aspects, we have developed an integrative technique called network component analysis, which utilizes mRNA expression and transcriptional network connectivity to determine network component dynamics, functions and interactions. This approach has been applied to elucidate transcription factor dynamics in Saccharomyces cerevisiae cell-cycle regulation, detect cross-talks in Escherichia coli two-component signalling pathways, and characterize E. coli carbon source transition. An ultimate test of system-wide understanding is the ability to design and construct novel gene-metabolic circuits. To this end, artificial feedback regulation, cell–cell communication and oscillatory circuits have been constructed, which demonstrate the design principles of gene-metabolic regulation in the cell.
Mexican migrant-smuggling: A cross-border cottage industry

As the United States has intensified surveillance of its southern border with Mexico, unauthorized migrants have become increasingly dependent on hired smugglers when they cross the border and reach their destinations in the US interior. According to the US Immigration and Naturalization Service, tighter border controls have systematically transformed migrant smuggling into a sophisticated and highly profitable industry dominated by large-scale criminal syndicates that prey on migrants desperate to enter the US without official authorization. In this article I argue that despite the rise of larger-scale smuggling organizations, smuggling of migrants across the US-Mexico border is still undertaken by small-scale and/or part-time smugglers who are embedded in the Mexican migrant community itself. Moreover, I suggest that the logic that predicts the elimination of small-scale smugglers from the market is flawed because it is based on an unrealistic assessment of the requirements for mounting a successful smuggling enterprise. I base this claim on preliminary findings from an ongoing ethnographic study of migrant smuggling on the South Texas-Northeast Mexico border that I began in summer 1998.
Memory, Myth, and Time in Mexico: From the Aztecs to Independence

* Preface *1. The Nahua Concept of Time and Space *2. Representation and Uses of the Past *3. The Conquest: A New Historical Protagonist and a New Historical Discourse *4. Transformation of Indigenous Memory and Resurgence of Mythic Memory *5. Creole Patriotism, Independence, and the Appearance of a National History * Conclusion * Notes * Bibliography * Index
PERCENTAGE AGREEMENT AND PHI: A CONVERSION TABLE

Studies in applied behavior analysis have used two expressions of reliability for human observations: percentage agreement (including percentage occurrence and percentage nonoccurrence agreement) and correlational techniques (including the phi coefficient). The formal relationship between these two expressions is demonstrated, and a table for converting percentage agreement to phi, or vice-versa, is presented. It is suggested that both expressions be reported in order to communicate reliability unambiguously and to facilitate comparison of the reliabilities from different studies.
Exploring concerns of children with cancer

Background Aggressive treatment protocols in pediatric oncology have major effects on the lives of children with cancer. The effects of lifestyle changes such as hospitalization and home schooling on quality of life have not been investigated. This study explores lifestyle effects of cancer therapy on the quality of life of children with cancer. The goals of this study were to identify important quality-of-life issues from the perspectives of children with cancer and to identify how they think their experience with cancer treatment could be improved.
Processing Words with Emotional Connotation: An fMRI Study of Time Course and Laterality in Rostral Frontal and Retrosplenial Cortices

Responses of rostral frontal and retrosplenial cortices to the emotional significance of words were measured using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Twenty-six strongly right-handed participants engaged in a language task that alternated between silent word generation to categories with positive, negative, or neutral emotional connotation and a baseline task of silent repetition of emotionally neutral words. Activation uniquely associated with word generation to categories with positive or negative versus neutral emotional connotation occurred bilaterally in rostral frontal and retrosplenial cortices. Furthermore, the time courses of activity in these areas differed, indicating that they subserve different functions in processing the emotional connotation of words. Namely, the retrosplenial cortex appears to be involved in evaluating the emotional salience of information from external sources, whereas the rostral frontal cortex also plays a role in internal generation of words with emotional connotation. In both areas, activity associated with positive or negative emotional connotation was more extensive in the left hemisphere than the right, regardless of valence, presumably due to the language demands of word generation. The present findings localize specific areas in the brain that are involved in processing emotional meaning of words within the brain's distributed semantic system. In addition, time course analysis reveals diverging mechanisms in anterior and posterior cortical areas during processing of words with emotional significance.
Driving Realistic Texture in Simulated Long-Wave Infrared Imagery

The visually-realistic yet radiometrically-accurate simulation of long-wave infrared (LWIR) imagery is a problem that has plagued members of industry and academia alike. Simulating texture in LWIR imagery is a more complex task due to temperature variation which is a function of solar absorptivity, surface orientation, shadowing and bulk thermal properties. In order to deal with these additional sources of variability, we have improved the Digital Imaging and Remote Sensing Image Generation (DIRSIG) model to allow the use of thermal property texture maps to control various thermal properties. This paper presents these methods and applies them in order to simulate LWIR imagery taken over natural desert scenes in Trona, CA. The resulting imagery demonstrates that these new methodologies for modeling thermodynamic phenomena and the utilization of an enhanced DIRSIG tool improve the average root mean-squared error (RMSE) of our synthetic LWIR imagery by up to 88%.
An efficient finite‐difference frequency‐domain method including thin layers

A method is presented to incorporate thin, lossy layers into a finite-difference frequency-domain model while retaining a coarse grid-spacing. This approach significantly reduces computational effort. The new method is validated by a comparison with analytical solutions. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 43: 40- 44, 2004; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley. com). DOI 10.1002/mop.20369
Continuous deep-seated slope failure recycles sediments and limits levee height in submarine channels

Channel-levee systems are responsible for constructing deep sea fans, among the largest sedimentary deposits on Earth. Levee height plays a key role in defining the volume and texture of the material that is deposited in the bounding levees, and thus the morphology of submarine fans. Models of channel formation and evolution generally assume that the levees aggrade in response to the cumulative overspill of turbidity flows, and that their height is controlled by these flows. In contrast, we show that levee growth in the Ursa Basin (Gulf of Mexico) is limited by the mechanical strength of the levee, not the flow behavior. While many studies document sidewall failures in levee systems, our poro-mechanical model is the first to demonstrate that collapse of levees is a large-scale, deep-seated process driven by the interaction of levee formation and high fluid pressure. Rapid deposition of a regional sand unit induced large fluid overpressure in the underlying mud, which preconditioned the system for levee failure, which then fed a large volume of sediment back into the channel-levee system. Long-lived levee failures continually reintroduced previously deposited levee material back into the channel system. This implies that a large volume of sediment is continuously recycled, which has not been previously understood. Turbidite flow models generally assume that flows progressively lose their fine-grained component due to levee overspill as they traverse the channel. In contrast, we show a mechanism by which fine-grained material can re-enter the system in large quantities, and this has significant and broad importance for models of channel and fan evolution. We also show that that levee failure introduces significant unconformities, in contrast with the common assumption that levees offer complete and high-resolution records of climate, tectonics, and sea level.
Protein secretion by the mouse blastocyst: differences in the polypeptide composition secreted into the blastocoel and medium.

To initiate studies on the protein microenvironment of the mouse blastocoel, we examined the electrophoretic profile of newly synthesized proteins secreted into the blastocoel, as well as those secreted into the medium. Although most polypeptides reveal no relative enrichment, some proteins (e.g., proteins of Mr = 155,000 and 33,000) are enriched in the blastocoel relative to those secreted apically into the medium. In addition, some proteins (e.g., proteins of Mr = 102,000 and 40,000) are enriched in the medium relative to the blastocoel. The relative amount of newly synthesized protein secreted into the blastocoel is about 2.5% of total protein synthesis. In addition, the trophectoderm and inner cell mass contribute to these proteins. Results of these studies suggest a potential function for these blastocoel-enriched proteins in inner cell mass development.
Looking back – 20 years in practice

Having worked in the same practice for our entire working careers, we have seen phenomenal changes in the veterinary profession. The make-up of our own practice, the staffing structure needed for a busy hospital, the level of commitment needed for training nurses, the standard of care and the sheer diversity of the nursing profession, client relationships and their expectations and – at long last – the banishment of the dresses just to name a few!
Learning to Share: How Literature Can Help.

(1983). Learning to Share: How Literature Can Help. Childhood Education: Vol. 59, No. 3, pp. 188-192.
Remembering development - epigenetic responses to fetal malnutrition.

Some of the most debilitating diseases affecting global public health that have an extreme monetary impact on health care costs are metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes. These complex polymorphic diseases are influenced by multiple genetic loci as well as environmental cues. Fetal malnutrition has been identified as one such cue, causing asymmetric fetal growth as well as being associated with several adult onset diseases (Hales & Barker, 1992). During embryonic and fetal life, cellular expansion and differentiation coordinate the development and growth of tissues and organs to shape an adult. If fetal nutrition is compromised during these important developmental events, adaptations to decreased substrate availability may occur via epigenetic mechanisms (Pinney & Simmons, 2009). These changes can persist postnatally, resulting in inappropriate handling of substrates and likely contributing to the development of chronic metabolic diseases.
Degenerate four-wave mixing in colloidal gold as a function of particle size

The conjugate reflectivity of colloidal gold has been measured for four samples containing particles with mean sizes of 5, 10, 15, and 30 nm. The response times of the samples indicate a size dependence, but the conjugate signal strength was found to be only weakly dependent on particle size. Calculations of the local-field enhancement in the host matrix by the effective-medium theory indicate that the nonlinearity is inherent in the gold particles.
A disproportionate role for mtDNA in Dobzhansky- Muller incompatibilities?

Evolution in allopatric populations can lead to incompatibilities that result in reduced hybrid fitness and ultimately reproductive isolation upon secondary contact. The Dobzhansky-Muller (DM) model nicely accounts for the evolution of such incompatibilities. Although DM incompatibilities were originally conceived as resulting of interactions between nuclear genes, recent studies have documented cases where incompatibilities have arisen between nuclear and mitochondrial genomes (mtDNA). Although mtDNA comprises only a tiny component (typically <<0.01%) of an organism's genetic material, several features of mtDNA may lead to a disproportionate contribution to the evolution of hybrid incompatibilities: (i) essentially all functions of mtDNA require interaction with nuclear gene products. All mtDNA-encoded proteins are components of the oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) system and all mtDNA-encoded RNAs are part of the mitochondrial protein synthetic machinery; both processes require interaction with nuclear-encoded proteins for function. (ii) Transcription and replication of mtDNA also involve mitonuclear interactions as nuclear-encoded proteins must bind to regulatory motifs in the mtDNA to initiate these processes. (iii) Although features of mtDNA vary amongst taxa, metazoan mtDNA is typically characterized by high nucleotide substitution rates, lack of recombination and reduced effective population sizes that collectively lead to increased chance fixation of mildly deleterious mutations. Combined, these features create an evolutionary dynamic where rapid mtDNA evolution favours compensatory nuclear gene evolution, ultimately leading to co-adaptation of mitochondrial and nuclear genomes. When previously isolated lineages hybridize in nature or in the lab, intergenomic co-adaptation is disrupted and hybrid breakdown is observed; the role of intergenomic co-adaptation in hybrid breakdown and speciation will generally be most pronounced when rates of mtDNA evolution are high or when restricted gene flow results in significant population differentiation.
A Comparison of the Distribution of Potassium and Exchangeable Rubidium in the Organs of the Dog, Using Rubidium86

From determinations of radioactivity and potassium content at intervals after the injection of Rb86, it was inferred that most organs of the dog contained exchangeable rubidium in a concentration paralleling but exceeding that of potassium, as compared with their relative concentrations in the plasma. A "lag phenomenon" resulting in higher rubidium specific activity in the myocardium than plasma was present. Analysis indicated that this was dependent on the relationship of myocardial rubidium exchange rate and the rate of decline of plasma rubidium specific activity. In experiments requiring prolonged observation, Rb86 (half life, 19.5 days) is a useful tracer of potassium.
Wausau Equipment Company: A Lean Journey (B)

The lean initiative detailed in the (A) case, OM-1354, had reached a precarious stage. Despite an optimistic business forecast, there was a disturbing trend developing: the Machine and Systems division of Wausau Equipment Company (WECO) had failed to sell several harvesting systems to customers previously thought to be reliable buyers. It also appeared that the competition was making important inroads in what was traditionally "WECO country." The first wave of improvements made by the eight teams with regard to quality, productivity, and cycle-time reduction was not yet having any impact in the field. Team member enthusiasm to re-engage in the next improvement cycles had waned, yet some managers, supervisors and team leaders voiced strong support for the lean initiative. Pressure to cut costs was growing, and the lean initiative was increasingly seen by some as unnecessary and even wasteful. If the lean initiative were restarted, what could be done to ensure that it was effective and sustainable and what areas of the enterprise should be included? The president of WECO had to develop an agenda for the coming staff meeting, where he hoped to guide discussion toward the future of the lean initiative at his company.
Genetic variability in fear learning and awakenings to re-exposure of a novel conditioning stimulus during sleep

The impact of trauma exposure on sleep may depend on the interaction between biological vulnerability of the individual and environmental factors. We recently established a mouse model of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) utilizing a novel conditioning stimulus (CS) with which to re-expose mice during sleep. The current study assessed the effect of re-exposure to the CS during sleep in genetically ‘anxious’ male mice (n = 11) relative to ‘non-anxious’ mice (n = 12). Mice were instrumented with EEG, EMG and EKG electrodes and given seven days of adaptation prior to a 24-h baseline sleep recording. Mice were fear conditioned over three series with five cycles of paired 3 % carbon dioxide (CO2; CS) predicting 0.5 mA footshocks. Mice were then re-exposed to either the CS or to air (control) during sleep and the impact on the sleep–wake cycle was assessed. Anxious mice had increased spontaneous awakenings during baseline sleep study and exhibited a robust learned bradycardic response (−90 ± 11 bpm) that habituated across series, whereas non-anxious mice exhibited a mild-to-moderate initial learned bradycardic response (−44 ± 16 bpm) that sensitized across series. Subsequent re-exposure to the CS during sleep produced a 50 % increase (P < 0.05) in awakenings from NREM sleep in anxious mice, whereas awakenings in non-anxious mice were unaffected. Thus, genetic background impacts the magnitude and pattern of fear-learning responses, and re-exposure to a learned CS during sleep in an ‘anxious’ phenotype lowers the threshold to increased awakenings from NREM sleep.
Osseous genioplasty in conjunction with bimaxillary orthognathic surgery: a review of 262 consecutive cases

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results of osseous genioplasty with bimaxillary orthognathic surgery. A retrospective consecutive case series of patients treated by a single surgeon between 2004 and 2013 was studied. All underwent Le Fort I, sagittal ramus osteotomies, septoplasty, inferior turbinate reduction, and osseous genioplasty. The outcome variables included the presenting chin dysmorphology, complications, and assessment of morphologic change. A Steiner analysis was completed for each subject's interval cephalogram. Two hundred sixty-two subjects met the inclusion criteria. Their mean age at operation was 25 (range 13-63) years. Chin osteotomy complications included one wound infection (0.4%), and two of the 1572 mandibular anterior teeth at risk sustained a pulpal injury. None of the subjects required revision. For subjects undergoing chin advancement, the mean change was +3.5 (range +3 to +6) mm. A majority also underwent counterclockwise rotation of the mandible (62%). For those undergoing chin lengthening, the mean change was +5 (range +3 to +12mm) mm, and for those undergoing vertical shortening, the mean change was -3.5 (range -3 to -7) mm. Osseous genioplasty is confirmed to be a safe method to reshape the chin. When osseous genioplasty is performed in conjunction with bimaxillary orthognathic surgery, only a modest horizontal change is required to achieve the preferred pogonion projection.