cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Magnetic Resonance Elastography: A Novel Technique for the Detection of Hepatic Fibrosis and Hepatocellular Carcinoma After the Fontan Operation.

Abstract Objective To evaluate the utility of magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) in screening patients for hepatic fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma after the Fontan operation. Patients and Methods Hepatic MRE was performed in conjunction with cardiac magnetic resonance imaging in patients who had undergone a Fontan operation between 2010 and 2014. Liver stiffness was calculated using previously reported techniques. Comparisons to available clinical, laboratory, imaging, and histopathologic data were made. Results Overall, 50 patients at a median age of 25 years (range, 21-33 years) who had undergone a Fontan operation were evaluated. The median interval between Fontan operation and MRE was 22 years (range, 16-26 years). The mean liver stiffness values were increased: 5.5±1.4 kPa relative to normal participants. Liver stiffness directly correlated with liver biopsy-derived total fibrosis score, time since operation, mean Fontan pressure, γ-glutamyltransferase level, Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score, creatinine level, and pulmonary vascular resistance index. Liver stiffness was inversely correlated with cardiac index. All 3 participants with hepatic nodules exhibiting decreased contrast uptake on delayed postcontrast imaging and increased nodule stiffness had biopsy-proven hepatocellular carcinoma. Conclusion The association between hepatic stiffness and fibrosis scores, Model for End-Stage Liver Disease scores, and γ-glutamyltransferase level suggests that MRE may be useful in detecting (and possibly quantifying) hepatic cirrhosis in patients after the Fontan operation. The correlation between stiffness and post-Fontan time interval, mean Fontan pressure, pulmonary vascular resistance index, and reduced cardiac index suggests a role for long-term hepatic congestion in creating these hepatic abnormalities. Magnetic resonance elastography was useful in detecting abnormal nodules ultimately diagnosed as hepatocellular carcinoma. The relationship between stiffness with advanced fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma provides a strong argument for additional study and broader application of MRE in these patients.
Flexibilized Gelatin Film-Based Artificial Skin Model: II. Release Kinetics of Incorporated Bioactive Molecules

Any delivery system for bioactive molecules should have the ability to release the compound in question in a reproducible and predictable way over a certain period. For artificial skin models that are designed to enhance healing by the use of growth factors, this requirement poses another problem: the design of a delivery method that can provide a realistic assessment of the release kinetics. This means that the design should "mimic" conditions encountered in an open wound, i.e., only a certain part of the film can face the wound, from which it can absorb wound fluid that will dissolve the incorporated bioactive molecule and bring it to the open wound. Such a system has been developed and the release of 125I-labelled insulin, incorporated into flexibilized gelatin films, has been determined. The details of this study follow.
Motion Analysis of Transradial Prosthesis While Lifting a Box for Development of a Biomechanical Model

In order to design a prosthetic device, it is essential to analyze the movements of the limb that it is replacing. For improvement of prosthetic design, it is important to understand the limitations of current designs. The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the kinematic and the kinetics of transradial prosthesis users while bliaterally lifting a box, for experimental input of a biomechanical model. Creating a model for the movements of a transradial prosthesis can lead to its design improvement, selection criteria and virtual reality training.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
Different formats: linking serial titles for display through bibliographic relationships. Is it possible?

Many online catalogs display each physical manifestation of a multiformat serial separately. Being able to display all the formats together as a single item could reduce confusion for the user. This study examines the feasibility of using the ISSN (022) and the additional physical entry field (776) of the MARC record for linking together the different formats of a serial for display. For multiformat serials that contain an electronic journal as one of the formats, the results show that the 776 field alone linked 96.4 percent of the records while the 022 field alone linked 80.3 percent. Using both the 776 and 022 fields, 98.6 percent of the records were linked.
A phylogeny of the megapodes (Aves: Megapodiidae) based on nuclear and mitochondrial DNA sequences.

DNA sequences from the first intron of the nuclear gene rhodopsin (RDP1) and from the mitochondrial gene ND2 were used to construct a phylogeny of the avian family Megapodiidae. RDP1 sequences evolved about six times more slowly than ND2 and showed less homoplasy, substitution bias, and rate heterogeneity across sites. Analysis of RDP1 produced a phylogeny that was well resolved at the genus level, but RDP1 did not evolve rapidly enough for intrageneric comparisons. The ND2 phylogeny resolved intrageneric relationships and was congruent with the RDP1 phylogeny except for a single node: this node was the only aspect of tree topology sensitive to weighting in parsimony analyses. Despite differences in sequence evolution, RDP1 and ND2 contained congruent phylogenetic signal and were combined to produce a phylogeny that reflects the resolving power of both genes. This phylogeny shows an early split within the megapodes, leading to two major clades: (1) Macrocephalon and the mound-building genera Talegalla, Leipoa, Aepypodius, and Alectura, and (2) Eulipoa and Megapodius. It differs significantly from previous hypotheses based on morphology but is consistent with affiliations suggested by a recent study of parasitic chewing lice.
Dissociation of norepinephrine turnover from alpha-2 responses after clorgiline.

Responses to intravenous clonidine, a possible central noradrenergic probe, were examined in patients with depression before and after treatment with clorgiline, a selective monoamine oxidase type A inhibitor. Pulse rate, mean arterial blood pressure, plasma norepinephrine, 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol, and growth hormone were measured. Clorgiline treatment (2.5 to 10 mg/day) produced a variable reduction in the hypotensive response to clonidine but did not influence heart rate or plasma norepinephrine responses. Clorgiline markedly reduced the urinary output of norepinephrine and metabolites, indicating a reduced turnover of norepinephrine. None of the measured parameters corresponded with clinical effect. These data suggest that any clorgiline-induced alterations in α2-receptor function as measured by responses to clonidine are modest and highly variable. Furthermore, since the variable and inconsistent changes in α2-receptor function are dissociated from the massive changes in norepinephrine metabolism, regulation of presynaptic α2-receptors appears unlikely to mediate the effects of clorgiline in patients with depression. Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics (1988) 43, 32–38; doi:10.1038/clpt.1988.8
Mechanical Regulation of Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3β (GSK3β) in Mesenchymal Stem Cells Is Dependent on Akt Protein Serine 473 Phosphorylation via mTORC2 Protein

Mechanical signals can inactivate glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β), resulting in stabilization of β-catenin. This signaling cascade is necessary for the inhibition of adipogenesis in mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) that is produced by a daily strain regimen. We investigated whether Akt is the mechanically activated kinase responsible for phosphorylation and inactivation of GSK3β in MSC. Mechanical strain (2% magnitude, 0.17 Hz) induced phosphorylation of Akt at Ser-473 and Thr-308 in parallel with phosphorylation of GSK3β at Ser-9. Inhibiting Akt (Akt1/2 kinase inhibitor treatment or Akt knockdown) prevented strain-induced phosphorylation of GSK3β at Ser-9. Inhibition of PI3K prevented Thr-308 phosphorylation, but strain-induced Ser-473 phosphorylation was measurable and induced phosphorylation of GSK3β, suggesting that Ser-473 phosphorylation is sufficient for the downstream mechanoresponse. As Rictor/mTORC2 (mammalian target of rapamycin complex 2) is known to transduce phosphorylation of Akt at Ser-473 by insulin, we investigated whether it contributes to strain-induced Ser-473 phosphorylation. Phosphorylation of Ser-473 by both mechanical and insulin treatment in MSC was prevented by the mTOR inhibitor KU0063794. When mTORC2 was blocked, mechanical GSK3β inactivation was prevented, whereas insulin inhibition of GSK3β was still measured in the absence of Ser-473 phosphorylation, presumably through phosphorylation of Akt at Thr-308. In sum, mechanical input initiates a signaling cascade that is uniquely dependent on mTORC2 activation and phosphorylation of Akt at Ser-473, an effect sufficient to cause inactivation of GSK3β. Thus, mechanical regulation of GSK3β downstream of Akt is dependent on phosphorylation of Akt at Ser-473 in a manner distinct from that of growth factors. As such, Akt reveals itself to be a pleiotropic signaling molecule whose downstream targets are differentially regulated depending upon the nature of the activating input.
Flow in tapering and cylindrical vessels

Abstract A comparative study of steady creeping flow in tapering and cylindrical vessels is presented. Analytical considerations show that the approximation of a tapered vessel by a cylindrical tube with a radius equal to the mean of the tapered tube is increasingly in error as the radius ratio increases but is lessened by the presence of non-Newtonian behavior of the fluid. Consideration was given to radius ratios reported in the literature for arterioles, and the fluid (blood) was assumed to follow the Casson model. Also examined were the discrepancies between in vivo and in vitro viscometry and the role of taper. It was found that non-Newtonian effects offer a possible explanation for the observed discrepancies and that taper is a secondary factor.
Breast-Cancer Screening

This article reviews current recommendations for breast-cancer screening and the supporting evidence, including the controversy regarding mammographic screening of women in their 40s.
Measurement of the Nuclear Moments of the First-Excited State of Er 170 by the Mössbauer Effect

The M\"ossbauer effect has been used to measure the hyperfine splitting of ${\mathrm{Er}}^{170}$ in Er${\mathrm{Fe}}_{2}$. Since there is no suitable $\ensuremath{\beta}$-decay parent nuclide, the first-excited state was populated by Coulomb excitation with 3.0-MeV $\ensuremath{\alpha}$ particles. The same measurement of hyperfine splitting was made for ${\mathrm{Er}}^{166}$ by using a $\ensuremath{\beta}$-decay source. Assuming the internal field at the Er nucleus in Er${\mathrm{Fe}}_{2}$ to be an axially symmetric electric-field gradient along the same axis as the magnetic field, we have obtained a good fit to the data. The results are $\frac{{{g}_{R}}^{170}}{{{g}_{R}}^{166}}=1.002\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.013$ and $\frac{{{Q}_{0}}^{170}}{{{Q}_{0}}^{166}}=1.05\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.16$. Using a previously determined value for ${{g}_{R}}^{166}$, we derive ${{g}_{R}}^{170}=0.319\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.011$.
Crop response to fine and granular magnesium fertilizers

Response of corn (Zea mays L.) to fine and granular Mg fertilizers was determined on an acid, Mg-deficient Weston fine sand (Typic Ochraquults) in a greenhouse pot experiment. Corn forage yields were similar with finely ground (< 0.2 mm) MgSO4, MgO, MgCO3, and Mg-oxysulfate (a partly acidulated MgO product). Granular MgSO4 (100% water-soluble) was as effective as the finely ground products. Forage yields with granular MgO and Mg-oxysulfate were related to their granule size. Small (1.4 to 2.0 mm) granules were almost as effective as the finely ground fertilizers, but medium (2.4 to 3.4 mm) and coarse (3.4 to 4.8 mm) granules were increasingly less effective. Magnesium uptake by corn generally increased as forage yields increased.
Structural Changes in PEO–PPO–PEO Gels Induced by Methylparaben and Dexamethasone Observed Using Time-Resolved SAXS

Aqueous solutions of polyoxyethylene-polyoxypropylene-polyoxyethylene (PEO-PPO-PEO) triblock copolymers (commercially available as Pluronic surfactants) micellize and structurally arrange into cubic quasicrystalline lattices as their temperature is raised. This structural evolution is seen macroscopically as a gelation, and the presence of these ordered phases can be controlled through both polymer concentration and temperature. The presence of added solutes within the dispersions can also affect the onset and kinetics of structure formation. Here we investigate the structures formed in Pluronic F127 solutions ranging from 20 to 30% with two pharmaceutical additives [methylparaben (MP) and dexamethasone (DX)] using small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). We observe both the progressive evolution and breakdown of these structures as the temperature is increased from 0 to 80 °C. Additionally, we conducted time-resolved SAXS measurements to elucidate the kinetics of the structural evolution. On the basis of the evolution of scattering peaks as the samples were being heated, we suggest that added MP changes the nucleation behavior of fcc phases within the sample from a heterogeneous process to a more homogeneous distribution of nucleated species. MP and DX also stabilize the micelle lattices, allowing them to persevere at higher temperatures. We observed the unusual result that the presence of DX causedmore » the primary peaks of the structure factor to be suppressed, while preserving the higher order peaks. The primary peaks reappeared at the highest temperatures tested.« less
WNT4 acts downstream of BMP2 and functions via β-catenin signaling pathway to regulate human endometrial stromal cell differentiation.

Differentiation of endometrial stromal cells into decidual cells is a prerequisite for successful embryo implantation. Our previous studies in the mouse have shown that bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2), a morphogen belonging to the TGFβ superfamily, is essential for this differentiation process. BMP2 is markedly induced in human primary endometrial stromal cells (HESCs) as they undergo differentiation in response to steroid hormones and cAMP. The present study was undertaken to identify the BMP2-mediated molecular pathways in primary cultures of HESCs during decidualization. Using gene expression profiling, we identified wingless-related murine mammary tumor virus integration site 4 (WNT4) as a target of BMP2 regulation during decidualization. Attenuation of WNT4 expression in HESCs by small interfering RNA administration greatly reduced BMP2-induced stromal differentiation. Additionally, adenovirus-mediated overexpression of WNT4 in HESCs markedly advanced the differentiation program, indicating that ...
A synthesis algorithm for reconfigurable interconnection networks

The performance of a parallel algorithm depends in part on the interconnection topology of the target parallel system. An interconnection network is called reconfigurable if its topology can be changed between different algorithm executions. Since communication patterns vary from one parallel algorithm to another, a reconfigurable network can effectively support algorithms with different communication requirements. It is shown how to generate a network topology that is optimized with respect to the communication patterns of a given task. The algorithm presented takes as input a task graph and generates as output a topology that closely matches the given input graph. The topologies generated by the algorithm are analyzed with respect to optimum interconnection topologies for the best, worst, and average cases. Simulation results verify the average-case performance prediction and confirm that, on the average, the optimum topologies are generated. >
Cytosolic Arl2 Is Complexed with Cofactor D and Protein Phosphatase 2A

Arl2 is a member of the ADP-ribosylation factor family of 20-kDa GTPases that is highly conserved in eukaryotes. Recent results revealed that a portion of cellular Arl2 and its binding partner, BART, localize to mitochondria. Because ∼90% of cellular Arl2 is cytosolic, we investigated properties of the soluble protein and found that it is stably bound in a complex that migrates in gel filtration medium with a predicted molecular mass of ∼300 kDa. This complex was purified ∼500-fold from the soluble fraction of bovine brain. Protein components were identified by mass spectroscopy and revealed the presence of four other proteins that include the tubulin folding cochaperone cofactor D and all three subunits of at least two protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) protein phosphatase trimers. The presence of more than one PP2A B-type subunit and the low stoichiometry of Arl2 indicate that the purified preparation still contains a mixture of complexes that cannot currently be completely resolved. Thus, although all the soluble Arl2 in bovine brain is in high molecular mass complexes, only a portion of the total cellular cofactor D and PP2A are associated with the Arl2. We further show that the Arl2 in the complex cannot bind GTP and that complexed cofactor D does not efficiently participate in tubulin refolding reactions in a manner comparable with free cofactor D. Our data suggest functional roles for the cytosolic Arl2 complex in modulating tubulin and microtubule behavior as well as a possible role in apoptosis.
Oxidation of alcohol in free-moving mice from high and low preference strains.

Free-moving mice from the high-alcohol preference C57BL/6J strain and low-preference DBA/2J strain were slowly fed [2-14C]ethanol intragastrically until anesthesia was achieved. Behavior was monitored in a Plexiglas metabolic chamber while 14CO2 was simultaneously trapped to determine the rate of ethanol metabolism. Average time to the loss of the righting reflex in the DBA/2J was 21.9 min and 27.9 min for the C57BL/6J strain (p less than 0.005). Elimination of 14CO2 was slightly higher (n.s.) in the DBA/2J strain for the entire monitoring period. Infusion of ethanol via the tail vein yielded identical results indicating that the slower elimination rate in the C57BL/6J strain could not be the result of slower absorption across the gut wall. Infusion via the tail vein with radioactive sodium bicarbonate indicated that the DBA/2J strain has a higher rate of CO2 expiration (n.s.). Consequently, the higher rate of 14CO2 expiration from ethanol oxidation may not reflect a higher rate of metabolism. These results are discussed in terms of the apparent differences between these strains in neural sensitivity to ethanol.
Use of permanent magnets to reduced anode losses in MPD thrusters

Results from previous studies indicate that the anode fall, the principal source of anode heating in MPD thrusters, increases monotonically with the electron Hall parameter calculated from electron temperature, number density, and magnetic field data obtained near the anode. In an attempt to reduce the anode fall by decreasing the local electron Hall parameter, a proof-of-concept test was performed in which an array of 36 permanent magnets were embedded within the anode of a high-power quasisteady MPD thruster to decrease the local azimuthal component of the induced magnetic field. The modified thruster was operated at power levels between 150 kW and 4 MW with argon and helium propellants. Terminal voltage, triple probe, floating probe, and magnetic probe measurements were made to characterize the performance of the thruster with the new anode. Incorporation of the modified anode resulted in a reduction of the anode fall by up to 15 V with argon and 20 V with helium, which corresponded to decreased anode power fractions of 40 and 45% with argon and helium, respectively. 26 refs.
Maintaining Your Youthful Spontaneity: Microcircuit Homeostasis in the Embryonic Spinal Cord

Many developing networks generate spontaneous network activity (SNA) that plays an important role in setting up functional circuitry, but how the proper level and pattern of SNA is itself maintained has not been clear. In this issue of Neuron, Gonzalez-Islas and Wenner show that SNA in the intact embryo regulates itself through a set of adaptive homeostatic plasticity mechanisms.
Machiavelli and the chief resident.

A good chief resident is under pressure from residents and the department director and must work for the welfare of both the housestaff and the institution. Using precepts from Niccolo Machiavelli's The Prince, the author gives advice for chief residents on how to balance their responsibilities. The author, using Machiavelli's precepts, discusses the difficulties of introducing change, supervising former colleagues and peers, the opprobrium that inevitably attaches to tough decisions, the need to set good examples, and other aspects of being a chief resident.
Cocaine-induced hypophagia and hyperlocomotion in rats are attenuated by prazosin.

Abstract The present studies examined the effects of antagonizing α 1 -adrenoceptors via systemic administration of prazosin on the behavioral actions of cocaine in rats, including induction of locomotion and suppression of eating. In Experiment 1, locomotor activity was monitored in automated chambers for 80 min in adult male rats pretreated with the α 1 -adrenoceptor antagonist prazosin (0, 0.5, or 2 mg/kg, i.p.) and then treated (i.p.) with either 0, 10, 20, or 40 mg/kg cocaine hydrochloride. Cocaine dose-dependently increased total distance traveled and the number of stereotypy counts, and significantly decreased rest time. Each dose of prazosin produced a significant attenuation of the locomotor effects of a limited range of cocaine doses (i.e. 10 and/or 20 mg/kg cocaine, but not 40 mg/kg cocaine). Prazosin alone did not alter any measure of locomotion. In Experiment 2, eating and drinking were monitored for 60 min in male rats pretreated with prazosin (0, 1, and 2 mg/kg, i.p.) and then treated with 0, 10, 20, or 40 mg/kg (i.p.) cocaine. Rats pretreated with vehicle exhibited a dose-dependent suppression of eating, but not drinking, to cocaine. The impact of prazosin on cocaine-induced hypophagia paralleled that noted for locomotion in that administration of prazosin significantly attenuated the hypophagic action of 20 mg/kg cocaine, but not that of 40 mg/kg cocaine. These findings confirm earlier studies noting a partial role for α 1 -adrenoceptors in the locomotor stimulant actions of cocaine and extend those findings to the feeding-inhibitory actions of cocaine.
Cerebellar defect associated with Schimke immuno-osseous dysplasia.

We report the finding of an absent cerebellar hemisphere and partial absence of the cerebellar vermis in a child with dysmorphic features, spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia, steroid resistant nephrotic syndrome secondary to focal segmental glomerulosclerosis and T-cell lymphopenia (Schimke immuno-osseous dysplasia). These findings have not, to our knowledge, been described before and are likely to represent the consequence of a vascular event either in-utero or in early infancy.
Intervertebral Disc Function Is Restored in an In Vivo Model of Chronic Nucleus Pulposus Glycosaminoglycan Reduction

Reduced nucleus pulposus glycosaminoglycan (GAG) content is one of the earliest clinically detectable changes during the course of intervertebral disc degeneration [1,2]. Depletion of nucleus GAG by small percentages consistent with this early loss has been experimentally linked to altered motion segment mechanical function, and thus, potentially increases the risk of damage accumulation directly due to elevated stresses and strains and through altered cellular function [3]. Recently, our laboratory has established an in vivo model in a rat lumbar disc which moderately decreases nucleus GAG to levels observed in early human degeneration. In this model, GAG loss is accompanied by a state of hypermobility at both 4 and 12 weeks post treatment [4], potentially making the disc susceptible to mechanical failure. The objective of this study was to determine the long term effects of nucleus GAG depletion and to determine if altered discs demonstrate hallmark features of disc degeneration. We hypothesized that GAG will remain depleted 24 weeks post treatment, potentially decreasing to lower levels, and further that geometrical and mechanical changes consistent with degeneration will be observed.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
For a nonclosing field, every algebraic variety is a hypersurface, or all of space

THEOREM 1. The following table, where h means hypersurfaces, s space itself i f space is no h, f finite sets that are neither h nor s, o other sets, includes all algebraic varieties in affine d-space over a field F that contains the coefficient field F'; we call F closing i f it contains the algebraic closure of F'. The same holds in projective d-space. The underlined classes of varieties are infinite i f (but not only if) F' is infinite, the others are finite. \ d F ~ 0 1 2 ~>3 finite hs h h h infinite, nonclosing hs h_s h_s h_s closing hs hs Osf Osfo
Effectiveness of Public Income Redistributive Programs on Lower Income Groups

The effects of income redistribution programs on the increase in capital and economic growth have been discussed previously. The concern herein is with (a) the effectiveness of income redistributive public policies and programs, mainly transfer and tax programs, in redistributing income; (b) why income distribution in the United States has remained virtually unchanged since 1947; and (c) proposed governmental income redistributive programs intended to benefit lower income
A versatile microcomputer-based multiple-field tachistoscope

A newly introduced microcomputer in its most basic form provides a wide variety of stimulus display capabilities at an extremely low price. Several simple illustrative programs demonstrate its ability to present any number of visual stimuli in sequence and record response latencies, thus duplicating the functions of a multiple-field tachistoscope and associated response-recording instrumentation.
Quantitative protein sequencing using mass spectrometry: thermally induced formation of thiohydantoin amino acid derivatives from N-methyl- and N-phenylthiourea amino acids and peptides in the mass spectrometer.

Abstract The thermally induced formation of methyl- and phenylthiohydantoin amino acid derivatives from the corresponding N-methyl- and N-phenyl-thiourea derivatives of amino acids and peptides has been shown to occur in the mass spectrometer. A comparison of the mass spectra of a number of amino acid thiourea derivatives with those of the corresponding thiohydantoin derivatives has been made and the apparent similarities have been noted. The similarity in mass spectral behavior suggests that the thiourea derivative undergoes a thermal rearrangement during mass spectral analysis to the thiohydantoin which is subsequently ionized and detected. Support for this suggestion is found in the mass spectral behaviou of N-terminal thiourea peptides derivatives which are shown to also rearrange in the mass spectrometer to produce the thiohydantoin of the N-terminal amino acid which is ionized and detected. The utility of the resulting analytical procedure for amino acid analysis and end group analysis is discussed.
Altruism and its Limits: The Role of Civil and Political Rights for American and French Aid towards the Middle East and North Africa

This article studies if and under which circumstances Western support to regimes in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) is contingent on concerns for political and civil rights. Using foreign aid as a proxy for support, we compare the role of political and civil rights with the role of different geopolitical and economic factors for aid allocation. We analyse French and US aid flows to 12 MENA countries, covering the period from 1990–2005. We find that, for both countries, strategic concerns are highly relevant for aid allocation; civil and political rights also matter, but only in places of no strategic value. Thus, although French and US foreign aid goes to different countries, the underlying motives are remarkably similar. Finally, to the extent that there is a difference between the two countries, France fairs worse than even US military aid regarding the consideration of civil and political liberties.
Microbiological quality of selected recreational waters

Abstract The incidence of bacteria, fungi, total coliforms, fecal coliforms, Serratia marcescens, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Yersinia enterocolitica, Edwardsiella tarda, and Chromobacterium violaceum was monitored in 18 widely used recreational waters in the north-central Florida area. Samples were obtained during the summer of 1979 and winter of 1980. Temperature and pH were measured simultaneously with sample collection. Heterotrophic bacteria was enumerated using plate count agar (PCA) with incubation at 35°C for 48 hr. Fungal counts were done using PCA with incubation at 25°C for 5 days. Total and fecal coliforms were enumerated following the most probable number technique. Various selective and differential media were used for the isolation of the pathogens studied. Temperature, pH, and bacterial, fungal, total, and fecal coliform counts decreased in all winter samples. However, the distribution of the selected pathogenic microorganisms seemed to be affected during the winter. Forty-four percent of all the recreational water sampled during the entire study contained S. marcescens, 50% contained P. aeruginosa, 56% C. violaceum, and 11% Y. enterocolitica. No. E. tarda was recovered during the entire study. The presence of high levels of fecal coliforms and the isolation of various pathogenic microorganisms in the various recreational waters studied should be of concern and closer monitoring is stressed.
SEED GERMINATION TIMING PATTERNS IN INTERMOUNTAIN PENSTEMON (SCROPHULARIACEAE)

Regulation of seed germination timing is an important component of population persistence, especially for short-lived plants in seasonal environments with unpredictable year-to-year weather variation. Seed germination patterns were examined in the laboratory for seeds from 135 populations belonging to 38 species and 13 sections of the genus Penstemon (Scrophulariaceae), from habitats ranging from warm desert to alpine tundra. Seeds of most species were dormant at dispersal and required a period of moist chilling to become germinable. Response to chilling was related to probable chilling duration at the collection site. Populations from habitats with severe winters produced seeds with long chilling requirements, while those from habitats with mild winters produced seeds with short chilling requirements. Populations from midelevation habitats produced seeds with intermediate chilling requirements but with a sizeable fraction whose dormancy was not broken by chilling of any length. Another pattern observed mostly in warm desert populations was little primary dormancy at autumn temperatures combined with induction of a fraction into secondary dormancy by short chilling. Species with a wide habitat range included populations with contrasting germination patterns. Parallel habitat-correlated patterns were observed in different sections. Most species showed germination patterns that combined predictive mechanisms with potential for carryover of a persistent seed bank. Results of common garden experiments suggested that germination differences had a strong genetic basis both among populations and among plants in a population. Adaptive radiation in the genus Penstemon has thus included the evolution of habitat-specific germination timing strategies in multiple lineages within the genus.
Uranian methane abundance, rotational temperature, and effective pressure from the 6800 A band

Measurements of the methane absorption features at 6800 A in two spectrograms of Uranus have been analyzed on the working hypothesis that the features are the R branch of the 5 mu(3) rotation-vibration overtone. Internal and external consistencies in temperature calculations from the measurements give increased confidence that the band identification and rotational-quantum-number assignments to band members are correct. Parametric fitting of synthetic reflecting-layer and homogeneous scattering-layer spectra to the spectrograms is attempted. The best-fit methane abundances, taken with recent estimates of the molecular hydrogen abundance, correspond to an average C:H ratio between 1.5 and 25 times larger than the solar ratio. Even greater enrichment of the C:H ratio may occur below the visible cloud boundary. High spectroscopic resolution of the present data permits direct measurement of the methane line halfwidth in Uranus's spectrum. The halfwidth corresponds to an effective pressure greater than 3 atm, depending on the mixture of atmospheric gases. Pressure in this range, at the methane rotational temperature of between 93 and 100 K, is inconsistent with current Uranus atmosphere models having solar elemental-abundance ratios. It is consistent with models which are considerably enriched in 'heavier' constituents.
Reversible flaccid paraplegia after orthotopic liver transplantation.

TO THE EDITOR: Sensorimotor demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy is a rare complication in liver transplant (LT) patients taking tacrolimus (1, 2). The following case illustrates that cyclosporin neurotoxicity may also present as sensorimotor demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy despite therapeutic blood levels, and masquerade as diabetic polyneuropathy.
Compulsive Activity Checklist and the Maudsley Obsessional-Compulsive Inventory: Psychometric properties of two measures of obsessive-compulsive disorder.

The psychometric properties of two measures of obsessive-compulsive symptoms are described in this study. The Compulsive Activity Checklist (CAC) and the Maudsley Obsessional-Compulsive Inventory (MOCI) were administered to a nonclinical American sample of 579 college students. Original American norms are presented for the CAC and the MOCI. Both measures demonstrated good internal consistency and testretest stability over a 6–7 month interval. Principal components analysis extracted three CAC factors: washing, checking and personal hygiene. Four factors were extracted for the MOCI: washing, checking, doubting and strictness. Both measures showed good convergent and divergent validity with the nine subscales of the SCL-90-R, though the results were slightly stronger for the MOCI. The results also provide additional evidence that the CAC and MOCI are measuring different aspects of obsessivecompulsive symptoms.
Comparison of electron beam irradiation with gamma processing for medical packaging materials

Abstract Ionizing radiation is known to degrade materials and in the meantime is capable of novel property creation. In the medical device industry, sterilization by ionizing radiation has become increasingly popular. In particular, the beta or electron beam irradiation has been adopted along with the traditional gamma radiation from Cobalt or Cesium sources. Of course, the ionizing radiation which disrupts bio-macromolecular structures in bio-burdens can damage polymer chains. Although the mode of radiation interaction is similar, gamma and high-energy electrons differ in several subtle ways: dose rate, sample temperature rise, oxygen availability and treatment duration. We have conducted a comparative study on material interactions due to e-beam irradiation and treatment with gamma. A similarity between the two processes as well as significant differences will be presented.
INFORMING A LEARNING PROGRESSION IN GENETICS: WHICH SHOULD BE TAUGHT FIRST, MENDELIAN INHERITANCE OR THE CENTRAL DOGMA OF MOLECULAR BIOLOGY?

The Framework for Science Education and the Next Generation Science Standards in the USA emphasize learning progressions (LPs) that support conceptual coherence and the gradual building of knowledge over time. In the domain of genetics there are two independently developed alternative LPs. In essence, the difference between the two progressions hinges on conjectures regarding the accessibility of Mendelian versus molecular genetics, the conceptual dependencies between them, and the order in which they should be taught. The discrepancies between the two progressions stem, in part, from gaps in the current research base. To address the question of whether learning one aspect of genetics, Mendelian or molecular, supports the learning of the other, we analyzed correlations between students’ test scores on item subsets for Mendelian and molecular genetics on written pre-post assessments. Students were seventh graders who received intensive instruction in Mendelian and molecular genetics. We found that students’ pretest scores on the molecular items were moderately correlated with their posttest scores on the Mendelian genetics item set (but not the other way around). This suggests that molecular genetics understandings may bootstrap the learning of Mendelian genetics. Implying that, in contrast to prevalent practice, molecular genetics should be taught before Mendelian genetics.
Characterization Of Bulk, Polycrystalline Indium Nitride Grown At Sub-Atmospheric Pressures

Polycrystalline, wurtzitic indium nitride was synthesized by saturating indium metal with atomic nitrogen from a microwave plasma source. Plasma synthesis avoids the high equilibrium pressures required when molecular nitrogen is used as the nitrogen source. Two types of growth were observed: 1) small amounts of indium nitride crystallized from the melt during cooling and 2) hexagonal platelets formed adjacent to the In metal source on the crucible sides. The mechanism of this latter growth is not established, but may involve transport of indium as a liquid film. The crystals were characterized by electron diffraction, X-ray diffraction, elemental analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. Lattice parameter and Raman active phonon modes are reported and compared with calculations based on the full-potential linear muffin-tin orbital method (FP-LMTO).
Sex steroid production and secretion in the male.

Zusammenfassung Produktion und Sekretion von Sexualsteroiden beim Mann Wir haben versucht, auf den Wert dieser kinetischen Studien in vivo hinzuweisen. Diese Einfuhrung kann Einblicke in die Rolle der Plasmabindung und Organclearance von Hormonen vermitteln. Die Rate von Ein- und Austritt aus Kompartimenten, insbesondere dem Kreislauf, kann quantitativ erfast werden. Die Umwandlung der Sexualsteroide untereinander spielt eine wichtige Rolle in der endokrinologischen Physiologie. Uberproduktion eines Prohormons kann zu einem klinischen Leiden fuhren. Unsere neueren Untersuchungen der Androgenproduktion und Sekretion bei alteren Mannern mit Prostatahyperplasie konnen parallel zu den Untersuchungen an Gewebe und Zellen gesehen werden. Bei Mannern mit Prostatahyperplasie gibt es bezuglich der Produktion und Sekretion von DHT grosere Veranderungen. Durch diese Untersuchungen erhebt sich die Frage, ob die Prostata sowohl Zielgewebe fur Hormone als auch eine endokrine Druse neuer Art ist: ein Processor von androgenen Prohormonen. Untersuchungen uber Prostatahyperplasien aller Stadien konnten zu einem so denkbar einfachen Weg der Behandlung oder Pravention fuhren wie die Therapie des Androgenaustausches. Weniger in Frage gestellt ist die klare Evidenz dieser Untersuchungen uber die Dynamik der Steroide, das Testosteron ein Prohormon oder Vorlaufer von wenigstens drei Sexualsteroiden beim Mann ist. Diese Umwandlungsprodukte konnten einen Mechanismus darstellen, der die peripheren Angriffspunkte und das feedback regelt; ebenso wie sie eine gewebespezifische Antwort liefern, alles von der Sekretion eines einzigen Drusenproduktes herruhrend.
Wavelength and Intensity of Seven Systems for Visible Light-Curing Composite Resins: A Comparison Study

The dental practitioner should be aware of the specific advantages of each visible light-curing composite resin system. The authors provide an evaluation of seven commercially available units.
Generics and verification in Ada

This paper explores the restrictions a mechanism in the style of the Ada generics facility would have to satisfy in order to be amenable to existing verification techniques. "Generic verification" is defined and defended as the appropriate goal for any such facility. Criteria are developed for generic verification to be possible and then Ada is evaluated with respect to these criteria. An example of the application of these techniques to an Ada unit is presented to show that generic verification is possible at least on a subclass of Ada generic units. Finally some potential applications of verified generic units are presented.
Molecular Dynamics Simulations of Template-Assisted Nucleation: Alcohol Monolayers at the Air−Water Interface and Ice Formation

Perhaps the best characterized template nucleation systems are the alcohol monolayer assemblies at the air−water interface. These monolayers, consisting of aliphatic alcohols [CnH2n+1OH, n = 16−31) have been the subject of hexagonal ice (Ih) induction experiments over a range of temperatures. To learn more about the molecular basis of alcohol monolayer template−induced ice nucleation phenomena, we performed canonical molecular dynamics (MD) simulations (1 ns) of pure C29, C30, and C31 alcohol monolayer−water droplet systems, using the reversible reference system propagation algorithm (r-RESPA). We find that the MD-determined monolayer physical parameters (at 278.15 K) exhibit reasonable agreement with experimentally determined values for crystalline C30 and C31 monolayers at 278.15 K. More importantly, as the simulation temperatures approach monolayer-specific freezing points, the water layer immediately below the monolayer surfaces adopted “ice-like” lattice parameters and hexagonal or c-centered rectang...
Hydrological modeling of outflow channels and chaos regions on Mars

[1] The Martian outflow channels were carved by the eruption of catastrophic floods from groundwater aquifers. This study models the time evolution of a typical outflow channel flood originating within a chaos region. The flood initiates when superlithostatic pore pressures within a confined aquifer lead to the propagation of hydrofractures through the confining cryosphere to the surface. The peak discharges are modulated by diffusion of the flood pulse within the chaos region, resulting in a rapid rise in discharge immediately after flood initiation. Later flow is limited by diffusion through the aquifer and is sensitive to the variation of the hydraulic properties with changing pore pressure. After the termination of the flood by freezing within the chaos region much of the aquifer remains pressurized. Diffusion of the excess pressure from the undrained portions of the aquifer back toward the chaos region triggers a second flood, ultimately resulting in a periodic series of floods. For Iani Chaos at the source of Ares Valles, modeled peak discharges on the order of 106 to 107 m3 s−1 were obtained, with total volumes of individual floods ranging from 600 to 5000 km3 and a minimum period between successive floods of ∼44 years. The cumulative flood volume depends upon the number of floods, which is a function of the volume of pressurized aquifer or the duration of recharge from distant sources. These results suggest that individual channels were likely carved by large numbers of floods and were unlikely to have experienced bankfull flow in their final state.
Adding Recess Appointments to the President's “Tool Chest” of Unilateral Powers

In the struggle to control the federal bureaucracy, presidents have an overlooked but powerful tool: the recess appointment. By making recess appointments, presidents can fill vacancies without the advice and consent of the Senate. The authors delineate three conditions that define presidential unilateral powers and demonstrate how recess appointments fit within that paradigm. Presidents, the authors argue, should be more likely to make recess appointments to important policy-making positions, namely, major independent agencies. The authors compile a data set of every civilian nomination and recess appointment between 1987 and 2004. After controlling for other factors, the authors find strong support for their theory.
Does It Mean to Die for Your Country? Preservice Teachers’ Views Regarding Teaching the Pledge of Allegiance

Abstract For many Americans, citizenship and patriotism are associated with reciting the nation's Pledge of Allegiance. Therefore, this study asks the following questions: What do future teachers think about the concepts embedded in the Pledge, and what are their opinions on the usefulness of the Pledge in schools, as well as society in general? Results indicated that future or preservice teachers believed the loyalty and patriotic aspects of the Pledge to be useful for K–12 students, but did not find a personal value in their own recitation of the Pledge.
A Crisis in Context Local Conditions, National Events, and Economic Policy Mood

The effect of economic distress on public opinion is well studied in political science. This research, however, tends to focus on one’s personal economic situation or national economic conditions, with considerably less scholarly attention directed toward understanding how intermediate levels, such as citizens’ local economic environment, shapes mass economic policy preferences. In response, this article develops a theory of the effect of local economic context on policy preferences which posits national economic events as a moderating factor and views toward the fairness of the economic system as an intervening factor. Drawing upon over a decade of survey data, and focusing on the 2008 Financial Crisis and public views toward business corporations, this article demonstrates that the Crisis polarized citizens across affluent and poor areas with respect to perceptions of corporate-led maldistribution, which in turn, had an indirect polarizing effect on economic policy mood.
Thermodynamic and kinetic processes involved in the growth of epitaxial GaN thin films

Our experimental results using reactive magnetron sputtering, combined with earlier literature, are used to understand the thermodynamic and kinetic processes involved in GaN film growth and the limiting factors involved in the incorporation of nitrogen during the growth process. We show that GaN films fabricated with low pressure growth techniques (<0.1 Torr) such as sputtering and molecular beam epitaxy are formed under metastable conditions with a nonequilibrium kinetically limited reaction. For these methods, the growth process is controlled by a competition between the forward reaction, which depends on the arrival of activated nitrogen species at the growing surface, and the reverse reaction whose rate is limited by the unusually large kinetic barrier of decomposition of GaN. In practice, the thermally activated rate of decomposition sets an upper bound to the growth temperature.
Using interview data to identify evaluation criteria for interactive, analytical question-answering systems

The purpose of this work is to identify potential evaluation criteria for interactive, analytical question-answering (QA) systems by analyzing evaluative comments made by users of such a system. Qualitative data collected from intelligence analysts during interviews and focus groups were analyzed to identify common themes related to performance, use, and usability. These data were collected as part of an intensive, three-day evaluation workshop of the High-Quality Interactive Question Answering (HITIQA) system. Inductive coding and memoing were used to identify and categorize these data. Results suggest potential evaluation criteria for interactive, analytical QA systems, which can be used to guide the development and design of future systems and evaluations. This work contributes to studies of QA systems, information seeking and use behaviors, and interactive searching. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.