cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of overbank deposition on the quality and maceral composition of the Herrin (No. 6) coal (Pennsylvanian) of Southern Illinois

Abstract A detailed study of the effects of overbank deposition on the quality and maceral composition of the Herrin (No. 6) Coal Member (Carbondale Fm., Middle Pennsylvanian) in southern Illinois was done using proximate, total-sulfur and maceral analyses. Channel samples were taken of the Herrin (No. 6) Coal and descriptions of the rocks overlying the coal were made at nine locations. the Herrin (No. 6) Coal in the study area is known to 3ave a high ash content toward the Walshville Channel (a channel sandstone possibly representing a distributary channel that existed during Herrin peat deposition). Sulfur content is knwon to in crease markedly where marine or marginal marine rocks directly overlie the coal and decrease where overlain by thick non-marine shale. Three types of overbank deposits are found in the study area accounting for the changes in coal quality and composition. Overbank flooding as sheet flow off the levee of the Walshville Channel introduced suspended material into the peat swamp. The suspended material either produced numerous shale laminae or intermixed with the peat, producing an increased ash content of the resultant coal close to the Walshville Channel. Contemporaneous with the introduction of clastic material by overbank flooding, partial oxidation of the peat occurred. Oxygenated flood water was able to oxidize the peat, increasing the pseudovitrinite content of the resultant coal. Fire splay deposits forming the partings, occurred when the swamp was flooded after a dry period or a swamp fire. The build-up of crevasse splay deposits forming the Energy Shale helped decrease sulfur content of the Herrin (No. 6) Coal in portions of the study area. The non-marine, shaly distal crevasse splay facies formed an impermeable barrier to downward movement of sulfate ion-bearing marine water during deposition of the marine units above the Energy Shale. High-sulfur coal is associated with the sandy crevasse distributary channel-fill facies and bay-fill facies of the Energy Shale or where the Energy Shale is not present. The crevasse distributary channel-fill facies allowed marine water to permeate through it, reaching the peat and resulting in high-sulfur coal. High-sulfur coal found where the bay-fill facies or other marine units directly overlie the coal is a result of marine water being able to permeate the peat directly.
Incidence of late-onset ocular hypertension following uncomplicated pars plana vitrectomy in pseudophakic eyes.

Purpose To determine the incidence of late-onset ocular hypertension following uncomplicated vitrectomy in pseudophakic eyes with an open angle. Design A retrospective observational case series. Methods Seven hundred and sixty-seven eyes of 767 patients that underwent vitrectomy combined with cataract surgery in 1 eye were studied. There were 383 men and 384 women. The indications for vitrectomy were: 308 eyes with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, 202 eyes with epiretinal membrane, 169 eyes with macular hole, 44 eyes with vitreous hemorrhage, 16 eyes with subretinal hemorrhage, 15 eyes with vitreomacular traction syndrome, 12 eyes with vitreous opacity, and 1 eye with retinoschisis. Of these, 176 eyes underwent vitrectomy alone because of previous cataract surgery. Late-onset ocular hypertension was defined as an intraocular pressure (IOP) >21 mm Hg that developed more than 2 months postoperatively in at least 2 postoperative visits. An increase in the IOP >4 mm Hg over the preoperative IOP was necessary. Eyes with ocular hypertension, glaucoma (suspect), or a possibility of IOP elevation were excluded. Results The mean age was 63 ± 11 years. The mean follow-up duration after vitrectomy was 47.8 ± 25.3 months. Thirty-two eyes (4.2%) developed late-onset ocular hypertension. The mean age was 60 ± 10 years. The mean interval between vitrectomy and development of ocular hypertension was 31.1 ± 26.0 months. There were no significant differences in the incidence of late-onset ocular hypertension and the vitreoretinal disease for vitrectomy, sex, or gauge of instruments for vitrectomy. Conclusion Long-term IOP monitoring is necessary after vitrectomy.
Development of chloroplast substructures with apparent secretory roles in the young tobacco leaf.

Abstract. Chloroplast fine structure studies were made on young tobacco leaves which were in the early log phase of chlorophyll accumulation. The development of two kinds of suborganelles which appeared to accumulate their mass from components of the plastid were observed. One of these substructures seemed to originate from a discshaped membrane which dithered from both the stroma thylakoids and those of the grana. This structure, the plastosome, was composed of a reticulate osmiophilic mass which was frequently released from the chloroplast. Such release occurred before the leaf reached mature size and increased in frequency during subsequent development. A chloroplast vacuole capable of containing either very little electron-dense material or being filled with a finely-granular mass and which was further distinguished by a single-layered membrane, was observed in a relatively few cases.
Criteria pollutant and greenhouse gas emissions from CNG transit buses equipped with three-way catalysts compared to lean-burn engines and oxidation catalyst technologies

Engine and exhaust control technologies applied to compressed natural gas (CNG) transit buses have advanced from lean-burn, to lean-burn with oxidation catalyst (OxC), to stoichiometric combustion ...
Greater strengths of character and recovery from illness

How are character strengths related to recovery? A retrospective web-based study of 2087 adults found small but reliable associations between a history of physical illness and the character strengths of appreciation of beauty, bravery, curiosity, fairness, forgiveness, gratitude, humor, kindness, love of learning, and spirituality. A history of psychological disorder and the character strengths of appreciation of beauty, creativity, curiosity, gratitude, and love of learning were also associated. A history of problems was linked to decreased life satisfaction, but only among those who had not recovered. In the case of physical illness, less of a toll on life satisfaction was found among those with the character strengths of bravery, kindness, and humor, and in the case of psychological disorder, less of a toll on life satisfaction was found among those with the character strengths of appreciation of beauty and love of learning. We suggest that recovery from illness and disorder may benefit character. 'Tis...
Handling alters cocaine-induced activity in adolescent but not adult male rats

Abstract The developmental period of adolescence is one that is characterized by increased levels of stress and vulnerability to drugs. Pre-test handling is an experimental manipulation that is used to acclimate animals prior to behavioral testing and exposure to a novel environment. Therefore, the present study was conducted in order to address the issue of pre-test handling of adolescent and adult male rats on subsequent cocaine-induced locomotor activity upon presentation to a novel environment. On days one through four, postnatal day (PND) 41–44 or PND 56–59, respectively, animals were handled b.i.d. for three minutes. On the fifth day, PND 45 or PND 60, animals were administered 30 mg/kg/ip cocaine or saline and immediately placed in a novel environment where locomotor activity was measured for 30 minutes. Cocaine increased locomotor activity similarly in all non-handled animals, regardless of age. Interestingly, adolescent animals expressed a differential effect when handled prior to an acute cocaine administration. Specifically, handling increased cocaine-induced locomotor activity in adolescent but not adult animals. These findings indicate that adolescent males that have been acclimated to the handling procedure experience significantly more behavioral reactivity than do adults to a high dose of cocaine upon exposure to a novel environment.
Alphavirus replicon particles acting as adjuvants promote CD8+ T cell responses to co-delivered antigen.

Alphavirus replicon particles induce strong antibody and CD8+ T cell responses to expressed antigens in numerous experimental systems. We have recently demonstrated that Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus replicon particles (VRP) possess adjuvant activity for systemic and mucosal antibody responses. In this report, we demonstrate that VRP induced an increased and balanced serum IgG subtype response to co-delivered antigen, with simultaneous induction of antigen-specific IgG1 and IgG2a antibodies, and increased both systemic and mucosal antigen-specific CD8+ T cell responses, as measured by an IFN-γ ELISPOT assay. Additionally, VRP further increased antigen-specific T cell immunity in an additive fashion following co-delivery with the TLR ligand, CpG DNA. VRP infection led to recruitment of CD8+ T cells into the mucosal compartment, possibly utilizing the mucosal homing receptor, as this integrin was upregulated on CD8+ T cells in the draining lymph node of VRP-infected animals, where VRP-infected dendritic cells reside. This newly recognized ability of VRP to mediate increased T cell response towards co-delivered antigen provides the potential to both define the molecular basis of alphavirus-induced immunity, and improve alphavirus-based vaccines.
Creating a sustainable university and community through a Common Experience

Purpose – This article aims to provide an overview of Texas State University's Common Experience, an innovative initiative that engaged tens of thousands of people in shared consideration of sustainability as a single topic during academic year 2010‐2011.Design/methodology/approach – The discourse begins with an overview of the Common Experience from a pedagogical perspective based on five principles of effective instructional practice identified by the National Research Council (NRC) in their synthesis of the research from the fields of cognitive, developmental and educational psychology, and brain research on how people learn. Based on a case study research design, the article next provides detailed descriptions of course‐based and non‐course Common Experience activities, including examples from the year‐long initiative. The discourse then focuses on important elements organizers should consider when planning non‐course activities, followed by a description of the planning process needed to replicate th...
Increasing the Effectiveness of Reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea L.) Control in Wet Meadow Restorations

Restoration practices are often based on trial and error or anecdotal information because data from controlled experiments are not available. In wet meadow restorations of the upper Midwest United States, Reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea L.) is controlled with spring burning and spring glyphosate herbicide applications, but the relative effectiveness of either treatment with respect to P. arundinacea growth and life history has not been assessed. We designed a multiyear field experiment to evaluate effects of burning and herbicide application timings on P. arundinacea populations. Burning did not reduce P. arundinacea biomass but reduced the P. arundinacea seed bank, potentially limiting recolonization of P. arundinacea. Glyphosate applications in late August and late September were more effective than in mid-May (due to enhanced glyphosate translocation to rhizomes), such that two mid-May applications reduced P. arundinacea biomass to a level equivalent to that achieved by one late-season application. Phalaris. arundinacea recolonized rapidly from the seed bank and, in plots that received suboptimally timed (mid-May) herbicide, from rhizomes. Establishment of native species was very low, likely due to competition with recolonizing P. arundinacea. Unplanted species (from the seed bank and refugial populations) accounted for the majority of non-P. arundinacea biomass. Recolonization of other species was strongly limited by a threshold level of P. arundinacea biomass. Adequate site preparation (over multiple growing seasons) and aftercare (selective removal of P. arundinacea) will be the key to facilitating subsequent wet meadow vegetation establishment. This research provides an example of the importance of experimental evidence as the basis to improve the efficiency of restoration practices.
Microwave characteristics of Ge n-i-p waveguide photodetectors on silicon-on-insulator substrate

We present microwave characteristics of evanescently coupled Ge waveguide photodetectors grown on Si rib waveguides. At 1GHz and 40mA of photocurrent, an OIP3 of 36.49dBm is measured. Additionally, the maximum RF power extracted at 1GHz is 14.35dBm at 60mA of photocurrent and 8V reverse bias.
The effects of force‐fledging and premature fledging on the survival of nestling songbirds

Despite the broad consensus that force-fledging of nestling songbirds lowers their probability of survival and therefore should be generally avoided by researchers, that presumption has not been tested. We used radiotelemetry to monitor the survival of fledglings of Ovenbirds Seiurus aurocapilla and Golden-winged Warblers Vermivora chrysoptera that we unintentionally force-fledged (i.e. nestlings left the nest in response to our research activities at typical fledging age), that fledged prematurely (i.e. nestlings left the nest earlier than typical fledging age), and that fledged independently of our activities. Force-fledged Ovenbirds experienced significantly higher survival than those that fledged independent of our activities, and prematurely fledged Ovenbirds had a similarly high survival to those that force-fledged at typical fledging age. We observed a similar, though not statistically significant, pattern in Golden-winged Warbler fledgling survival. Our results suggest that investigator-induced force-fledging of nestlings, even when deemed premature, does not necessarily result in reduced fledgling survival in these species. Instead, our results suggest that a propensity or ability to fledge in response to disturbance may be a predictor of a higher probability of fledgling survival.
Ring around the Ro-sie: RNA-mediated alterations of PNPase activity

Chen et al. demonstrate a new way by which noncoding RNAs tailor the function of multicomponent complexes. They show that a noncoding RNA interacts with an exoribonuclease, altering its substrate specificity and enzymatic activity by serving as a ribonucleoprotein scaffold and, perhaps, a gate for entry of the RNA substrate.
Head injury, potential interaction with genes, and risk for Parkinson's disease

Abstract Introduction To evaluate the association between head injury and Parkinson's disease (PD), focusing on the timing of head injury, and to explore potential interactions between head injury and genetic factors in PD etiology. Methods The analysis included 507 PD cases and 1330 controls, all non-Hispanic Whites. Head injury was retrospectively asked, and genotyping was performed mainly as part of a previous GWAS. Results We found a positive association between head injury and PD risk. Compared with no previous head injury, the odds ratio (OR) was 1.39 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.00, 1.94) for one and 2.33 (95% CI: 1.25, 4.35) for two or more head injuries (P for trend = 0.0016). We further found that the higher risk was largely attributed to head injuries before age 30. Compared with no previous head injury, the OR was 2.04 (95% CI: 1.33, 3.14) for head injury that occurred before age 18, 1.39 (95% CI: 0.81, 2.36) for head injury between ages 18- Conclusion Our study suggests that head injury early in life may be an important risk factor for PD. The potential interaction with RBMS3 needs confirmation.
Microscale characterization of energy dissipation mechanisms in liquefiable granular soils

Abstract This study utilizes the discrete element method (DEM) to present a microscopic energy monitoring approach to characterize energy dissipation mechanisms in seismically loaded soils. Numerical simulations were conducted on saturated deposits of granular particles subjected to seismic excitations, modeled using a transient fully-coupled continuum–fluid discrete-particle model. The onset of liquefaction is illustrated through macroscopic and microscopic response patterns. A novel in-depth look at the individual microscale energy components both before and after the onset of liquefaction is presented. Local microscopic energies are also presented and are compared with local macroscopic energies calculated from stress–strain loops. Finally, an assessment of existing hypotheses to quantify liquefaction potential based on energy consideration is presented through a discussion of a number of simulations that resulted in liquefaction.
Phrenic motor nucleus of the guinea pig: Dendrites are bundled without clustering of cell somas

Abstract In this study, the phrenic motor nucleus of adult guinea pigs was characterized following retrograde transport of horseradish peroxidase. The phrenic motor nucleus was localized to cervical sections C4–C7 in the ventromedial portion of the ventral horn. We further analyzed the internal organization of the phrenic motor nucleus by calculating the spatial interval distribution for the labeled motor neurons and their dorsally projecting dendrites which extended perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the nucleus. Although the phrenic motor neurons were not clustered, the dendrites occurred in bundles with a mean longitudinal distance between bundles of 165 μm (range, 40–350 μm).
Regression analysis on vertical components of the transient solid particle velocity in a fluidized bed combustor (FBC)

The transient solid particle velocity analysis in a fluidized bed combustor (FBC) freeboard is critical for its efficient and reliable operation. An experimental cold model (152 mm ID 2 610 mm height) of an FBC was designed and fabricated. Transient solid particle velocities in the FBC freeboard model were measured and analyzed with the assistance of an advanced laser-based particle image velocimetry (PIV) instrumentation. The PIV was applied to the FBC cold model to visualize the transient solid particle movement in the area of interest (AOI). Sixteen particle velocity profiles were generated in a 1.6 s time period. In each profile, a 3 (columns) 2 1 (row) grid was set. The regression analysis with the independent variables of X (x coordinate) and t (time) were applied to develop a specific empirical model for a transient solid particle vertical velocity component (V y ) within the AOI. The model shows that the V y within the AOI could be expressed as V y =f{sin C 1 X, cos C 2 t, e m C3t }, where C 1 , C...
Preliminary performance characteristics of a dual-energy KCD

A kinestatic charge detector (KCD) with segmented signal-collection fingers was constructed to evaluate the dual-energy x-ray imaging performance of a KCD. The front segments of the KCD signal-collectors produce a digital low-energy image and the back segments produce a digital high-energy image. A gap between the front and back signal-collectors is used as a filter to increase the separation between the mean energies absorbed in the front and back segments. Preliminary measurements have been performed on the dual-energy KCD to determine its dual-energy imaging characteristics. The KCD output signal has been measured as a function of depth in the chamber. The ion drift velocity, modulation transfer function (MTF), detective quantum efficiency (DQE) and Wiener spectrum have been determined for both the front (low-energy) and back (high-energy) signal detection regions of the KCD.
First-principles calculations and thermodynamic modeling of the Re-Y system with extension to the Ni-Re-Y system

Abstract The thermodynamic properties of the Re–Y binary system were modeled by complimenting the CALculation of PHAse Diagram (CALPHAD) method with first-principles calculations. Hcp and bcc solid solution phases were predicted from first-principles calculations to have positive enthalpies of mixing, indicating the existence of a miscibility gap. Heat capacity, entropy of formation, and enthalpy of formation as a function of temperature were predicted by first-principles calculations for Re 2 Y using the supercell method with the quasi-harmonic approximation. Together with the experimental data in the literature, a complete thermodynamic description for this binary system was developed. To predict the properties of the Ni–Re–Y system, the Ni–Re system was remodeled to be consistent with the current thermodynamic database and combined with the Ni–Y system from the literature and the Re–Y system from the current work. An isothermal section and the liquidus projection are presented.
Reduction of cytokine-induced expression and activity of MMP-1 and MMP-13 by mechanical strain in MH7A rheumatoid synovial cells

Excessive mechanical load induces harmful outcomes for joint diseases, such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, but physical stimuli at appropriate intensity are essential for growth and maintenance of bone and articular cartilage. Using a fibroblast-like synoviocyte cell line derived from a patient with rheumatoid arthritis, we examined the effects of gentle cyclic strain, focusing on the expression and activity of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) and MMP-13. Synovial cells were cultured on a collagen-coated agar block and exposed to 2% cyclic strain at 6 rev./min for 1 h. Expression of MMP-1 and MMP-13 was assayed using semi-quantitative and real-time PCR, as well as immunoblotting. Their activity was measured using spectrofluorometry and zymography. The results showed that the cyclic strain reduced the mRNA and protein levels of MMP-1 and MMP-13, and that both collagenase and gelatinase activity was decreased under the strain. The reduction in MMP activity by the cyclic strain was not achieved by the transcriptional inhibitor, actinomycin D. In the presence of proinflammatory cytokines, such as IL-1 beta and TNF-alpha, the strain reduced the cytokine-induced expression and activities of MMPs. Interestingly, the strain elevated the mRNA level of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) and TIMP-2. These results support a potential role of mechanical strain in down-regulating the cytokine-mediated proteolytic processes in synoviocytes.
Maintenance of feeder free anchorage independent cultures of ES and iPS cells by retinol/vitamin A

Pluripotent embryonic stem (ES) cells derived from mammalian blastocyst and the adult fibroblast derived induced pluripotent stem (iPS cells) exhibit complete potential to form cells representing all the primary germ layers such as mesoderm, endoderm and ectoderm. These cells are usually co-cultured with mouse embryonic fibroblast feeders to prevent spontaneous differentiation. Feeder free cultures can provide substantial advantage to improve the efficiency and consistency of the culture conditions. In these studies, we demonstrate that a small dietary compound retinol, the alcohol form of vitamin A has capacity to regulate the pluripotency of pluripotent stem cells and maintain highly enriched population of pluripotent ES and iPS cells in feeder free suspension cultures. Retinol maintains long-term cultures of undifferentiated cells via elevated expression of stem cell specific transcription factors Nanog and Oct4. The studies provide evidence that retinol regulates the self-renewal of pluripotent stem cells via the over expression of insulin like growth factor II (IGFII) that engages PI3 kinase signaling pathway via IGF1 receptor tyrosine kinase. The ES cells retain capacity to generate high degree germline competent chimeric animals after microinjection into blastocysts. The studies offer a convenient system for long term maintenance of pluripotent stem cells via the activation of intracellular machinery for self-renewal by a physiologically relevant compound for large-scale production of high quality pluripotent stem cells. J. Cell. Biochem. 113: 3002–3010, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ability of multiangle remote sensing observations to identify and distinguish mineral dust types: Optical models and retrievals of optically thick plumes

[1] We present a systematic theoretical study of atmospheric mineral dust radiative properties, focusing on implications for multiangle and multispectral remote sensing. We model optical properties of complex, nonspherical mineral dust mixtures in three visible-near-infrared satellite channels: 0.550, 0.672, and 0.866 μm, accounting for recent field and laboratory data on mineral dust morphology and mineralogy. To model the optical properties of mineral dust, we employ the discrete dipole approximation technique for particles up to 2 μm diameter and the T matrix method for particles up to 12 μm. We investigate the impact of particle irregularity, composition, and size distribution on particle optical properties, and we develop optical models for representative natural mineral dust composition-size-shape types. Sensitivity studies with these models indicate that Multiangle Imaging Spectroradiometer (MISR) data should be able to distinguish plate-like from grain-like dust particles, weakly from strongly absorbing compositional types, and monomodal from bimodal size distributions. Models containing grain-like, weakly absorbing, bimodal distributions of dust particles were favored for optically thick Saharan and Asian dust plume examples, whereas strongly absorbing and plate-like particles were rejected. We will present detailed, systematic MISR sensitivity studies and analysis of more complex field cases using the optical models derived here in a future paper.
Characteristics and products of a cell-free polypeptide synthesizing system from neonatal and adult mouse brain.

—The regulation of protein synthesis by ribosomes isolated from mouse brain tissue was studied using a cell-free polyphenylalanine synthesizing system. Polypeptide synthesis was followed by assaying translocation and analysing the reaction products by BD-cellulose chromatography. The brain ribosomal activity could be divided by these methods into two distinct steps : binding of aminoacyl-tRNA to the ribosome and active translocation leading to subsequent polyphenylalanine synthesis. In comparison to initial binding of aminoacyl-tRNA, translocation in the cell-free system increased the incorporation of labelled phenylalanine by 10-fold. An analysis of the reaction products clearly showed active ribosomal synthesis of oligophenylalanine from [3H]phe-tRNA. Ribosomes isolated from neonatal brain tissue were 2–4 times as active as those obtained from adult brain tissue in polypeptide synthesis. In addition, polypeptides synthesized on the more active ribosomes from neonates tended to be of greater chain length than those from adult. Therefore, the maturation-dependent decrease in ribosomal protein synthetic activity during neural development was shown to be directly associated with the ribosome particles.
Bioelectromagnetics for a Retinal Prosthesis to Restore Partial Vision to the Blind

The retinal prosthesis is aimed to restore partial vision to the blind affected by outer retinal degenerative diseases. Almost all research efforts rely on a dual-unit system, with components internal and external to the human body, including a video camera, an inductive wireless link for power and/or data transfer between the external and internal components, a processing microchip, and a stimulating electrode array. In this paper, we discuss modeling and computational methods to calculate the electromagnetic interaction of some of the system components with the head tissues. Specifically, we will focus on two aspects of the system: the safety considerations of an inductive link operating at the carrier frequency of 10 MHz and the current spread in the retina under different conditions.
A novel prognostic nomogram is more accurate than conventional staging systems for predicting survival after resection of hepatocellular carcinoma.

Background Prediction of survival after resection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains difficult. Numerous staging systems have been devised for purposes of risk classification; we sought to identify the optimal staging system to predict postoperative survival. Study Design One hundred eighty-four patients who underwent primary complete resection of HCC at our institution between 1989 and 2002 were classified according to 8 contemporary staging systems. The ability of these systems to predict relative survival for randomly selected pairs of patients was quantified using the Harrel's concordance index. A novel prognostic nomogram was constructed using prognostically relevant variables. Results After a median followup of 46 months for surviving patients, the median overall survival was 38 months. The concordance indices for the existing staging systems ranged from 0.54 to 0.59. Only the 2002 American Joint Commission on Cancer system demonstrated a concordance index with a 95% confidence interval exceeding 0.5, indicating that the ability of conventional systems to predict relative survival of randomly selected pairs of patients was generally no better than chance. We developed a novel nomogram based on patient age, serum α-fetoprotein level, operative blood loss, resection margin status, tumor size, satellite lesions, and vascular invasion. The nomogram demonstrated a markedly superior concordance index of 0.74 (95% CI, 0.68 to 0.80). A separate nomogram for prediction of recurrence-free survival was also generated. Conclusions Contemporary staging systems for HCC do not accurately predict postoperative outcomes. Our prognostic nomogram provides a mechanism for accurate prediction of survival and risk stratification and will require validation at other hepatobiliary centers.
PORPHINE-LIKE SUBSTANCES: PROBABLE SYNTHESIS DURING CHEMICAL EVOLUTION.

IN the literature1–4 most of the authors dealing with the problems of origin of life are convinced that, at some stage of chemical evolution, porphyrins must have developed. However, until recently there was no laboratory evidence that porphine-like substances could be synthesized non-enzymatically from simple precursors. In a previous paper5 it was shown that traces of porphine-like substance, specifically α,β,γ,δ-tetraphenylporphine, was formed in a mixture of pyrrole and benzaldehyde in pyridine irradiated with cobalt-60 γ-radiation. In the experiments recorded here6 an aqueous suspension of pyrrole and benzaldehyde was irradiated at room temperature with either ultraviolet or visible light. The distance in both cases was 25 cm from the light source. For ultra-violet radiation a 100-W Hanovia Utility model lamp was used. The radiation transmitted through the filter was 45 per cent at 2500 A and 90 per cent at 3000 A and the output of the lamp was 1.5 × 1015 quanta/sec/cm2 or 5 × 1016 quanta/sec/area of the mixture exposed toward the radiation. The visible light source was a 100-W tungsten filament lamp bulb. In addition an aqueous suspension and a solution in pyridine of pyrrole and benzaldehyde were placed in semi-darkness without irradiation and then analysed for the products.
A note on the coefficient of ergodicity of a column-allowable nonnegative matrix

Abstract We give a simple proof of a closed-form expression for the coefficient of ergodicity of a column-allowable nonnegative matrix.
Management of spontaneous colonic perforation in ehlers-danlos syndrome type IV

A 14-year-old girl with a family history of fatal colonic rupture, presented with a 2-day history of abdominal pain and signs of peritonitis. At laparotomy, a full-thickness perforation of the sigmoid colon was found, which was exteriorized as a loop colostomy. Subsequently, molecular studies of the patient's cultured fibroblasts found a point mutation in the COL3A1 gene, confirming a diagnosis of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome type IV (EDS-IV). Four and a half years later, a total abdominal colectomy and ileoproctostomy were performed, restoring intestinal continuity. At 5 years follow-up, the patient has had no further complications. Although spontaneous colonic perforation is a well-reported manifestation of EDS-IV, a consensus on the surgical management of this complication in EDS-IV has yet to be determined. Given the high rate of reperforation in EDS-IV when the colon is left in place and the low incidence of reported small bowel and rectal perforations, subtotal colectomy is a reasonable treatment. Primary anastomosis and avoidance of an end-ileostomy was possible in this young patient, with no evidence of anastomotic leakage nor reperforation to date. Lifelong close follow-up should be continued in these patients, because the natural history of this anatomy in EDS-IV is not known.
Balloon dilation of congenital subaortic stenosis in the dog.

Balloon dilation during cardiac catheterization was evaluated for the treatment of congenital subaortic stenosis (SAS) in nine dogs. Under general anesthesia, bilateral cardiac catheterization was performed through the right jugular vein and carotid artery. Thermodilution cardiac output, and left ventricular and aortic root pressures and angiograms were obtained before and after balloon dilation. Balloons measuring 18-20 mm in diameter and 30-40 mm in length were positioned across the stenosis and three inflations 4-5 minutes apart were performed. There was no significant change in cardiac output, aortic pressure, or degree of aortic regurgitation after balloon dilation. For the entire group balloon dilation resulted in significant decreases in left ventricular systolic pressure (-61.2 +/- 37.2 mm Hg [mean change +/- SD], range -14 to -123), mean systolic pressure gradient (-39.6 +/- 24.4 mm Hg, range -8.4 to -72.2), and peak systolic pressure gradient (-64.3 +/- 46.5 mm Hg, range -17 to -143). Calculated left ventricular outflow cross-sectional area increased significantly (+.4 +/- .5 cm2, range -.06 to + 1.30). Clinical signs improved in the five symptomatic dogs. Individual hemodynamic responses varied widely, but the magnitude of improvement correlated with the severity of obstruction. Three dogs showed a decrease of 60% or greater (> or = 100 mm Hg), and six dogs showed a decrease of 25-50% (17-71 mm Hg) in peak systolic gradient after balloon dilation. Complications were frequent but most were transient and manageable. These preliminary results suggest that balloon dilation can acutely decrease outflow resistance in dogs with SAS and may be effective therapy for some affected dogs.
TL dating studies of tephra, loess and lacustrine sediments

Abstract A brief review is presented of my efforts to improve the accuracy of dating unheated sediments by TL and of the development of a new tephrochronometer. Specific applications to known-age deposits are outlined, as are studies of the depositional environment of subaqueous sediments. Removal of anomalous fading in loess by storage at 75°C for 8 days is demostrated. Throughout, for unheated sediments the preferential use of the partial bleach (R-gamma or R-beta) technique is emphasized, especially in situations where the growth curves are sublinear. Contrary to a widespread misconception, sublinearity does not invalidate the partial bleach method. Furthermore, examples are given of TL ‘sensitivity’ (or ‘efficiency’) changes occurring with the regeneration technique — changes that are variable and seemingly sample dependent.
Proximal femoral allograft treatment of Vancouver type-B3 periprosthetic femoral fractures after total hip arthroplasty. Surgical technique.

BACKGROUND: Periprosthetic femoral fractures following total hip arthroplasty are becoming more prevalent. When a fracture occurs in a femur with substantial proximal bone deficiency, the surgical options for revision are limited. One option includes the use of a proximal femoral allograft. METHODS: We retrospectively assessed the results and complications of the use of a proximal femoral allograft to treat twenty-five Vancouver type-B 3 periprosthetic fractures in twenty-four patients. The mean duration of follow-up was 5.1 years. Clinical results were graded with use of the Harris hip score. Radiographs were assessed for evidence of trochanteric union, host-allograft union, allograft resorption, and component loosening or fracture. Failure of the procedure was defined as the need for revision surgery requiring graft removal. RESULTS: The mean postoperative Harris hip score was 70.8. At the time of the final follow-up, twenty-one of the twenty-four patients reported no or mild pain and twenty-three patients were able to walk; fifteen required a walking aid. The greater trochanter united in seventeen of the twenty-five hips (68%), and osseous union of the allograft to the host femur occurred in twenty hips (80%). There was mild graft resorption in four hips and moderate graft resorption in two. Four (16%) of the twenty-five hips required repeat revision. CONCLUSIONS: The use of a proximal femoral allograft for the treatment of a Vancouver type-B 3 periprosthetic femoral fracture can provide a satisfactory result in terms of pain relief and function at five years.
Demystifying seizures and epilepsy: introduction to the symposium on seizures.

An estimated 10% of the world’s population will have an epileptic seizure sometime in their lives. Approximately 2.5 million people in the United States and 40 million people worldwide (a population larger than Canada’s or approximately the size of Spain’s) have epilepsy, the condition of having more than 1 unprovoked seizure. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, seizures and epilepsy account for 8.4 million office visits yearly at a cost of $12.5 billion in the United States alone. Clearly, seizures and epilepsy are common, expensive, and well known to the medical professional. Despite the staggering statistics, a certain mystique surrounds seizures and epilepsy. People with epilepsy often have difficulty obtaining employment, education, insurance, and drivers’ licenses. They are often portrayed in the media as though they are mentally handicapped or, worse, possessed. An inherent sense of projected hopelessness is suggested, particularly for advancement in society. Not surprisingly, people with epilepsy, whether average or prominent citizens, often deny they have seizures because of the societal stigma that has enveloped the condition. However, the myths that enshroud epilepsy are exactly that—myths. Figure 1 shows famous historical, artistic, religious, literary, and athletic leaders who have had either seizures or epilepsy during their lives. This who’s who of seizures permeates nearly all facets of our culture. Yet, the role that epilepsy may have played in these prominent people’s lives often has been lost in history. Recently, a television series may have helped dispel the myths surrounding epilepsy. The National Broadcasting Company’s popular TV series ER addressed the topic by having one of its lead physician characters experience seizures secondary to a brain tumor (Figure 2). The portrayal was realistic and dignified, and it did not perpetuate falsehoods. Unfortunately, many real-life physicians and other health care professionals have not been as helpful in erasing the stigma. Some continue to suggest that epilepsy is a psychiatric disorder (despite clear evidence to the contrary) and advocate that all affected individuals should not drive, live alone, or Demystifying Seizures and Epilepsy: Introduction to the Symposium on Seizures
Ion implantation technique for simulatneous formation of a shallow silicon p-n junction and a shallow silicide-silicon ohmic contact

Abstract Electron beam evaporation is used to coat a p-type silicon substrate with a thin layer of tungsten and then with alternating layers of silicon and tungsten. Bombardment of the coated substrate with As + ions causes intermixing of the metal and silicon layers, dispersion of contaminant atoms at the interface between the first metal layer and the substrate, and implantation of arsenic atoms in the substrate. Subsequent thermal annealing produces a shallow silicide-silicon ohmic contact and simultaneously activates the implanted arsenic donors to form a shallow pn + junction. This technique has been used for the fabrication of mesa diodes with good junction characteristics. A simplified version, in which only a single tungsten layer is deposited on the substrate, has been used as a self-aligned process in the fabrication of metal/oxide/semiconductor field effect transistors with a polycide gate. In the transistors the silicide contacts to the source and drain regions can be made very close to the gate, reducing both the series resistance of these regions and the overall device size.
The syndrome of idiopathic hypercalcemia of infancy with associated congenital heart disease

The relationship of idiopathic hyercalcemia of infancy with the syndrome of supravalvular aortic stenosis and/or peripheral pulmonary stenosis, mental retardation, and peculiar facies has been emphasized in the recent literature. There remains, however, a paucity of reported instances in which the hypercalcemia was documented. Two patients are described in whom the diagnosis in infancy was idiopathic hypercalcemia with associated congenital heart disease. Recent revaluation of the cardiac lesions demonstrated isolated supravalvular aortic stenosis in one case and isolated peripheral pulmonary artery stenoses in the other case. There was no maternal history of excessive vitamin intake during pregnancy in either case.
Plumage redness predicts breeding onset and reproductive success in the House Finch: A validation of Darwin's theory

Darwin (1871) and later Fisher (1958) suggested that sexual selection can drive the evolution of ornamental traits in monogamous species when female preferences for these traits allow well-ornamented males to begin breeding earlier in a season and, as a result, gain reproductive advantages over poorly ornamented males. However, few studies have been conducted to test this fundamental concept upon which much of the sexual selection theory for monogamous species has been based. In this study, we examined the relationship between breeding onset, reproductive success, and male ornamentation in the House Finch Carpodacus mexicanus, a species in which males display bright carotenoid-based plumage pigmentation. In previous work, it has been shown that bright male House Finches are preferred as social mates by females and, as a result, begin nesting earlier in the season than do drab orange and yellow males. Here we show that, by initiating breeding earlier in the season, brightly colored males fledge more offspring in a season than do drab males. Thus, differential timing of breeding generates considerable variance in reproductive success among male House Finches and contributes to sexual selection for male plumage ornamentation in this species.
A novel technique for face recognition using range imaging

We consider a novel technique for recognizing people from range images (RI) of their faces. Range images have the advantage of capturing the shape variation irrespective of illumination variabilities. We describe a procedure for generating RI effaces using data from a 3D scanner, and registering them in the image plane by aligning salient facial features. For statistical analysis of RI, we use standard projections such as PCA and ICA, and then impose probability models on the coefficients. An experiment describing recognition effaces using the FSU 3D face database is presented.
Catecholamine synthesis and the regulation of food intake in the rat.

Abstract Biochemical and behavioral studies support the role of hypothalamic catecholaminergic neurons in the regulation of food intake in the rat. Food deprivation did not change hypothalamic norepinephrine levels but increased dopamine levels. Catecholamine concentrations in the rest of the brain were unaltered by food deprivation. The depletion in hypothalamic catecholamines caused by α-methyl-p-tyrosine (α-MPT) was increased by food deprivation. In the rest of the brain, only the dopamine depletion observed after α-MPT treatment was increased. Application of α-MPT intrahypothalamically to food deprived animals inhibited food intake, while dopamine-β-hydroxylase inhibitors (DDC and FLA 63) caused an increase in food intake. 1-Dopa, injected intrahypothalamically alone and in combination with FLA 63 also increased food intake. The results support a role for both norepinenephrine and dopamine in the regulation of food intake. Furthermore, they suggest a role for newly synthesized catecholamines in the regulation of this behavior.
Alanine and taurine transport by the gill epithelium of a marine bivalve: Effect of sodium on influx

Marine mussels can accumulate amino acids from seawater into the epithelial cells of the gill against chemical gradients in excess of 5×106 to 1. Uptake of both alanine and taurine into gill tissue isolated fromMytilus californianus was found to be dependent upon Na+ in the external solution. Uptake of these amino acids was described by Michaelis-Menten kinetics, and a reduction in external [Na+] (from 425 to 213mm) increased the apparent Michaelis constants (alanine, from 8 to 17 μm; taurine, from 4 to 39 μm) without a significant influence on theJmax's of these processes. Fivemm harmaline, an inhibitor of Na-cotransport processes in many systems, reduced both alanine and taurine uptake by more than 95%; this inhibition appeared to be competitive in nature, with an apparentK i of 43 μm for the interaction with alanine uptake. Increasing the external [Na+] from 0 to 510mm produced a sigmoid activation of alanine and taurine uptake withKNa's of approximately 325mm. The apparent Hill coefficients for this activation were 7.3 and 7.4 for alanine and taurine, respectively. These data are consistent with uptake mechanisms which require comparatively high concentrations of Na+ to activate transport, and which couple several Na+ ions to the transport of each amino acid. These characteristics, in conjunction with the previously demonstrated low passive permeability of the apical membrane to amino acids, result in systems capable of i) accumulating amino acids from seawater to help meet the nutritional needs of this animal, and ii) maintaining the high intracellular amino-acid concentrations associated with volume regulation in the gill.
Endogeneity in Nonlinear Regressions with Integrated Time Series

This article considers the nonlinear regression with integrated regressors that are contemporaneously correlated with the regression error. We, in particular, establish the consistency and derive the limit distribution of the nonlinear least squares estimator under such endogeneity. For the regressions with various types of regression functions, it is shown that the estimator is consistent and has the same rate of convergence as for the case of the regressions with no endogeneity. Whether or not the limit distribution is affected by the presence of endogeneity, however, depends upon the functional type of the parameter derivative of regression function. If it is asymptotically homogeneous, the limit distribution of the nonlinear least squares estimator has an additional bias term reflecting the presence of endogeneity. On the other hand, the endogeneity does not have any effect on the nonlinear least squares limit theory, if the parameter derivative of regression function is integrable. Regardless of the ...
Amantadine in the treatment of refractory epilepsy in childhood: an open trial in 10 patients

Amantadine HCl was given to 10 children with medically refractory seizures; other anticonvulsant medications were continued unchanged through the 12- to 16-week trial. Several patients noted improvement in control of myoclonic or atypical absence seizures. Tonic seizures were controlled in one patient, but worsened in another. Tonic-clonic and atonic seizures remained unchanged or worsened. Amantadine may be useful as an adjunctive anticonvulsant in some children with refractory atypical absence or myoclonic seizures.