cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Herschel [C II] Galactic plane survey - III. [C II] as a tracer of star formation

Context. The [C ii] 158 μm line is the brightest far-infrared cooling line in galaxies, representing 0.1 to 1% of their far-infrared continuum emission, and is therefore a potentially powerful tracer of star formation activity. The [C ii] line traces different phases of the interstellar medium (ISM), including the diffuse ionized medium, warm and cold atomic clouds, clouds in transition from atomic to molecular, and dense and warm photon dominated regions (PDRs). Therefore without being able to separate the contributions to the [C ii] emission, the relationship of this fine structure line emission to star formation has been unclear. Aims. We study the relationship between the [C ii] emission and the star formation rate (SFR) in the Galactic plane and separate the relationship of different ISM phases to the SFR. We compare these relationships to those in external galaxies and local clouds, allowing examinations of these relationships over a wide range of physical scales. Methods. Wecompare the distribution of the [C ii]emission, with its different contributing ISM phases, as a function of Galactocentric distance with the SFR derived from radio continuum observations. We also compare the SFR with the surface density distribution of atomic and molecular gas, including the CO-dark H2 component. Results. The [C ii] and SFR are well correlated at Galactic scales with a relationship that is in general agreement with that found for external galaxies. By combining [C ii] and SFR data points in the Galactic plane with those in external galaxies and nearby star forming regions, we find that a single scaling relationship between the [C ii] luminosity and SFR applies over six orders of magnitude. The [C ii] emission from different ISM phases are each correlated with the SFR, but only the combined emission shows a slope that is consistent with extragalactic observations. These ISM components have roughly comparable contributions to the Galactic [C ii] luminosity: dense PDRs (30%), cold H i (25%), CO-dark H2 (25%), and ionized gas (20%). The SFR‐gas surface density relationship shows a steeper slope compared to that observed in galaxies, but one that it is consistent with those seen in nearby clouds. The different slope is a result of the use of a constant CO-to-H2 conversion factor in the extragalactic studies, which in turn is related to the assumption of constant metallicity in galaxies. We find a linear correlation between the SFR surface density and that of the dense molecular gas.
The Epidemiology of Maxillofacial Malignancy

SUMMARY The majority of cancers of the head and neck could be prevented with the elimination of alcohol and tobacco use. In addition, safe work conditions and environments can also prevent certain types of cancers, and as carcinogens have been identified, changes have been made in many of the industries previously mentioned. Besides prevention, which involves dissemination of information to both clinicians and the public, early detection of disease is critical. Once diagnosed, the stage of the disease will have a direct impact on the prognosis and outcome.
Introduction: Localizing SDGs and Empowering Cities and Communities in North America for Sustainability

This edited volume presents North American best practices and perspectives on developing, managing, and monitoring indicators to track development progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in local communities and cities.
Metacognitive training for schizophrenia: a scoping review and phenomenological evaluation

Background: This paper explores a possible dialogue between Metacognitive Training (MCT) for psychosis and the tradition of phenomenological psychopathol- ogy. MCT includes modules targeting cognit...
The application of low impact development approaches toward achieving circularity in the water sector: A case study from Soltan Abad, shiraz, Iran

Abstract The overexploitation of available water resources across the planet has increased pressure on these limited resources to a critical level, so water has been shifted into the “take-make-use-dispose” linear model. The use of rainwater, a non-conventional water resource, as an approach could promote the alternative model of Circular Economy (CE). Over the past few decades, due to the consecutive droughts, the problem of water scarcity in Iran has reached to the point that its catastrophic effects are visible in the lives of the people. Consequently, the need for sustainable approaches such as rainwater management has gained increasing urgency in order to cover the massive gap between the demand and sustainable supply of water. Accordingly, this study establishes a Low Impact Development (LID) rainwater management scenario -multiple LID design techniques-using the Rainwater + to managing the water in one of the driest regions, Soltan Abad, of Iran. To serve this purpose, the effect of four LID facilities of bioretention, subsurface infiltrating systems, rainwater harvested cisterns, and the porous pavements were evaluated in this study. Results showed that the proposed scenario of LIDs could control 60% of annual village rainfall runoﬀ. Also, the performance of LID devices is effective in decreasing village water stress by storing and reusing rainwater in domestic activities, general uses, and recharging the groundwater. Therefore, the implementation of these LID devices in reusing, returning water to nature will pave the way toward the circular economy.
Head and Neck Cancer Primary Tumor Auto Segmentation using Model Ensembling of Deep Learning in PET-CT Images

Auto-segmentation of primary tumors in oropharyngeal cancer using PET/CT images is an unmet need that has the potential to improve radiation oncology workflows. In this study, we develop a series of deep learning models based on a 3D Residual Unet (ResUnet) architecture that can segment oropharyngeal tumors with high performance as demonstrated through internal and external validation of large-scale datasets (training size = 224 patients, testing size = 101 patients) as part of the 2021 HECKTOR Challenge. Specifically, we leverage ResUNet models with either 256 or 512 bottleneck layer channels that are able to demonstrate internal validation (10-fold cross-validation) mean Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) up to 0.771 and median 95% Hausdorff distance (95% HD) as low as 2.919 mm. We employ label fusion ensemble approaches, including Simultaneous Truth and Performance Level Estimation (STAPLE) and a voxel-level threshold approach based on majority voting (AVERAGE), to generate consensus segmentations on the test data by combining the segmentations produced through different trained cross-validation models. We demonstrate that our best performing ensembling approach (256 channels AVERAGE) achieves a mean DSC of 0.770 and median 95% HD of 3.143 mm through independent external validation on the test set. Concordance of internal and external validation results suggests our models are robust and can generalize well to unseen PET/CT data. We advocate that ResUNet models coupled to label fusion ensembling approaches are promising candidates for PET/CT oropharyngeal primary tumors auto-segmentation, with future investigations targeting the ideal combination of channel combinations and label fusion strategies to maximize seg-mentation performance.
Magnetic resonance imaging of the knee in children and adolescents. Its role in clinical decision-making.

Background: Recent studies have questioned the utility of magnetic resonance imaging in the diagnosis of pediatric knee disorders because of the morphologic changes during growth and the low accuracy of the formal interpretation of the magnetic resonance imaging scan by a radiologist. The purpose of
A generalized manufacturing line simulator system for production, equipment and manpower planning

The simulation model written in GPSS/360 is designed to provide a general frame work to simulate the flow of jobs through a manufacturing line using the specified resources of machines and manpower for a specified number of periods.The model does not have to be altered to simulate each individual production facility. The data, which in effect creates the model of a production facility, comes from a data bank and can be changed from period to period. The model uses GPSS Help Blocks to abstract data from the data bank, store results of simulation performance into the bank and maintain logical consistency of simulation from one period to the next.The model has a production scheduling algorithm with two optionally monitors the line periodically and releases jobs into the line, or it will implement an externally imposed job release policy.The model permits study and measurement of the performance of the production line under a given set of operating rules and their stochastic interaction. By extending the length of simulation to several periods integrated production, equipment and manpower plans can easily be obtained.
Vehicle to grid utilizing a backstepping controller for bidirectional full-bridge converter and five level active neutral point inverter

In this paper a two-stage power electronic interface is presented for Vehicle to Grid applications. A bidirectional full-bridge converter stage supplies regulated DC voltage for two parallel five-level Active Neutral Point Clamped (ANPC) inverters which generate split-phase AC voltage to power a residential load. The AC output voltage of the multilevel ANPC inverters meets the harmonic limits of IEEE 519. A backstepping controller is developed for the converter stage which meets the voltage regulation objective while adapting for variation in the battery input voltage, system disturbances, and an unknown load. Stability analysis and simulation results validate this approach.
Vibrational Spectroscopy at High Pressures in CF4: Implications to the Phase Diagram

The molecular analogue of methane CF4 is the most fundamental saturated perfluorocarbon, exhibiting complex optical behavior that is highly unusual for such a simple molecular system. We present Raman measurements in solid CF4 over a wide range in pressure from 1.6 to over 30 GPa at room temperature. The Raman spectra exhibit polarization-dependent intensity variations and history-dependent absence or presence of high pressure modes. Our results compellingly demonstrate that previously identified phase transitions in CF4 based on Raman signatures need to be reconsidered. Though our data suggest possible new high-pressure transitions, we do not identify new phases because of spectral complexity. Finally, we used the measured longitudinal and transverse optical mode splitting to estimate the dipole moment derivative at high pressures and find it close to that of gaseous CF4.
T wave changes consistent with epicardial involvement in acute myocardial infarction: Observations in patients with a postinfarction pericardial effusion without clinically recognized postinfarction pericarditis

Abstract Objectives. This study was designed to evaluate the presence or absence of atypical T wave evolution in patients with a postinfarclion pericardial effusion but without clinically recognized postinfarction pericarditis. A second purpose was to evaluate the frequency of atypical T wave evolution in a previous study of postinfarction pericarditis. Background. Electrocardiographic (ECG) criteria involving the evolution of the T wave after an acute myocardial infarction were recently described in patients with regional postinfarction pericarditis. Atypical T wave evolution was found to have a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 77% for clinically recognized regional postinfarction pericarditis with or without a pericardial effusion. Methods. The hospital records and serial ECGs of 20 patients with clinically recognized postinfarction pericarditis (Group I) were reviewed. The records and serial ECGs of 20 additional patients with a postinfarction pericardial effusion without clinically recognized postinfarction pericarditis (Group II) were also examined. The type of postinfarction T wave pattern, typical or atypical, was recorded in both groups. Results. All 20 patients in Group I had atypical T wave evolution. Among the 20 patients in Group II, every patient also had atypical T wave evolution. Fifteen percent of all 40 patients with atypical T wave evolution had a non-Q wave infarction with definite or inferred postinfarction pericarditis. Conclusions. The high sensitivity of atypical T wave evolution in diagnosing regional postinfarction pericarditis was confirmed. However, similar T wave alterations were also observed when a postinfarction pericardial effusion existed in the absence of clinically recognized pericarditis. Fifteen percent of patients with atypical T wave evolution had a non-Q wave infarction with definite or inferred pericardial involvement. Thus, the presence of atypical T wave evolution may be a more sensitive indicator of a transmural infarction than the development of a Q wave.
Sovereign Risk, Net Foreign Assets and Exchange Rate Dynamics in Developing Economies

We show that sovereign risk premium contains important information about the short run exchange rate dynamics in emerging economies and that net foreign assets play the key role in the link between the two variables: on the one hand, the accumulation of foreign assets reduces the sovereign risk premium, since it provides a "crude form of collateral", appreciating the nominal exchange rate; on the other hand, the exchange rate appreciation worsens the trade balance, having a negative effect on the accumulation of net foreign assets. Our model is tested in two steps. First, we use annual data for the most liquid USD denominated external debt emerging markets and show how sovereign risk premium decreases with the level of net foreign assets. Second, we select from the original group the countries with a de facto independent floating exchange rate regime and show that out-of-sample forecasts using realized values for the sovereign risk premium successfully outperform a random walk.
Structural Breaks in Public Infrastructure Investment in the U.S

This paper investigates the possible existence and timing of structural breaks in public infrastructure investment in the US. Results are obtained using both the conventional Chow tests as well as the multivariate Bai, Lumsdaine and Stock tests which are more appropriate for finding breaks in the context of a VAR structure. All tests consider aggregate public investment as well as nine different disaggregated categories of public investment. In addition, multivariate tests include private output, employment, and investment, the variables usually considered in the literature. Empirical results suggest that a break in the mean of public investment occurred in the late 1970s or early 1980s. This is true at the aggregate level as well as for most types of public infrastructures. The measurement of the economic effects of public investment is a critical piece of information to understand the effects of any fiscal stimulus package. The empirical evidence in the literature is somewhat inconclusive at least partially because structural breaks have been largely ignored. We regard the evidence presented in this paper as the first step in the process of revisiting the analysis of the effects of such investments in a VAR framework while accounting for the presence of structural breaks.
Say Anything: A Massively Collaborative Open Domain Story Writing Companion

Interactive storytelling is an interesting cross-disciplinary area that has importance in research as well as entertainment. In this paper we explore a new area of interactive storytelling that blurs the line between traditional interactive fiction and collaborative writing. We present a system where the user and computer take turns in writing sentences of a fictional narrative. Sentences contributed by the computer are selected from a collection of millions of stories extracted from Internet weblogs. By leveraging the large amounts of personal narrative content available on the web, we show that even with a simple approach our system can produce compelling stories with our users.
Transforming higher education in developing countries: the role of the World Bank

The World Bank has actively supported tertiary education reform efforts in a number of countries. Nevertheless, there is a perception that the Bank has not been fully responsive to the growing demand by clients for tertiary education interventions and that, especially in the poorest countries, lending for the subsector has not matched the importance of tertiary education systems for economic and social development. Given these perceptions, the rapid changes taking place in the global environment, and the persistence of the traditions problems of tertiary education in developing and transition countries, reexamining the World Bank's policies and experiences in tertiary education has become a matter of urgency.
Calculation of the heat-transfer coefficient from the temperatures at points inside a plate

A method is proposed of determining the heat-transfer coefficient from the instantaneous temperatures at points inside a heated plate.
Chaotic dynamics of passive particles in three-vortex system: Dynamical analysis

Analytical study of a passive particle advection in three point-vortex system is described in details. We specify two extreme cases of strong and weak chaos depending on the geometry of 3-vortex system. Mappings are derived for both cases and domains of chaotic dynamics are calculated analytically. We discuss the origin of the coherent vortex cores — holes in the stochastic sea filled with KAM orbits, and obtain the expression for the core radius in case of strong chaos. A weak dependence of core radius on geometrical parameters is discovered. For the case of weak chaos the separatrix map is constructed and the stochastic layer width is estimated. Numerical simulations have been performed and it was found that there exists a fine structure of the coherent core boundary layer, which consists of islands and subislands. We also have found the stickiness of the advected particle to the boundaries of vortex cores.
FATHER ATTENDANCE IN NURSE HOME VISITATION

Our aim was to examine the rates and predictors of father attendance at nurse home visits in replication sites of the Nurse-Family Partnership (NFP). Early childhood programs can facilitate father involvement in the lives of their children, but program improvements require an understanding of factors that predict father involvement. The sample consisted of 29,109 low-income, first-time mothers who received services from 694 nurses from 80 sites. We conducted mixed-model multiple regression analyses to identify population, implementation, site, and nurse influences on father attendance. Predictors of father attendance included a count of maternal visits (B = 0.12, SE = 0.01, F = 3101.77), frequent contact between parents (B = 0.61, SE = 0.02, F = 708.02), cohabitation (B = 1.41, SE = 0.07, F = 631.51), White maternal race (B = 0.77, SE = 0.06, F = 190.12), and marriage (B = 0.42, SE = 0.08, F = 30.08). Random effects for sites and nurses predicted father-visit participation (2.7 & 6.7% of the variance, respectively), even after controlling for population sociodemographic characteristics. These findings suggest that factors operating at the levels of sites and nurses influence father attendance at home visits, even after controlling for differences in populations served. Further inquiry about these influences on father visit attendance is likely to inform program-improvement efforts.
Absolute determination of the quantum efficiency of an organic wavelength shifter by a temporal measurement

A novel technique for measuring organic fluor quantum efficiency has been developed. The measurement involves evaluating the change in the luminescence temporal distribution as a function of solute concentration. The solute was excited by the deep UV emissions of BaF/sub 2/ and luminescence time spectra were measured by a time-correlated single photon counting technique. As the solute concentration is increased, the luminescence spectra have a decreased contribution from transmitted UV light and an increased contribution from solute fluorescence. The quantum efficiency of the solute is determined using these data along with a correction for the differences in the detection efficiency of the primary and secondary light. The correction was determined by an optical transport code, DETECT, and the measured photomultiplier tube spectral response. Using this technique, the quantum efficiency of 9,10 diphenylanthracene in cyclohexane was calculated to be 0.76. >
Strategic Constituency Manipulation in State Legislative Redistricting

Scholars often identify gerrymanders by examining changes to districts' partisan composition. However, advantages can also be gained by systematically varying the extent to which incumbents' constituencies remain the same. In this article, I examine the post-2000 redistricting in 22 state legislatures. I find that parties, particularly in legislatures with low turnover levels, gain advantages from constituency manipulation, but that these advantages are counteracted by geographic redistricting regulations. Lastly, I find that ostensibly bipartisan outcomes nonetheless feature partisan constituency manipulation. These findings echo a growing literature that analyzes the geographic aspects of gerrymandering and highlight how turnover patterns motivate redistricting strategies.
Anchoring cells (desmocytes) in the hydrozoan polyp Cordylophora

Abstract Desmocytes or anchoring cells are present on the upright stolons of the athecate hydroid Cordylophora caspia and function to support the soft coenosarc within the rigid tube of perisarc by linking the perisarc with the mesoglea. These cells are characterized by accumulations of 70 A filaments which aggregate into dense rods at the apical end and contact the perisarc. At the base of the desmocytes the filaments are distributed within large cytoplasmic processes which interdigitate with an extension of the mesoglea. Desmocytes in Cordylophora are temporally and spatially formed in sequence as the upright elongates. Depending on their location and structure they can be categorized as forming, functional, or remnant desmocytes. The youngest, forming desmocytes are found in the distal end of the stolon 0.5–1.0 mm from the base of the hydranth. In this region coenosarc is just beginning to separate from the perisarc. Functional desmocytes are scattered 1–3 mm from the base of the hydranth and are associated with perpendicular extensions of the mesoglea. Remnants have lost their mesogleal connection and are located in more proximal, older regions of upright stolon. Support provided by the desmocytes to the upright stolon is limited by three factors that characterize the athecate hydroid: distribution of perisarc, pattern of growth, and extent of movement. The distal location of forming desmocytes is coincident with the hardening of new perisarc. The temporary nature of attachment sites is directly related to upright elongation. It is probable that the orientation of filaments within the cell and the mesogleal extension provide an additional feature of flexibility necessary to permit feeding, growth, and rhythmic pulsation movements characteristic of these hydroids.
Vector Control in Transportation Osteogenesis

Purpose To evaluate the ability to control vectors in the technique of transportation osteogenesis using 4 principles. Patients and Methods Sixteen defects measuring approximately 30–180 mm were retrospectively evaluated. Vector control was attempted using a single or combination of the following principles: multiple linear vectors, exaggerated linear distraction (“ sausage effect ”), braced guided distraction, and reorientation osteotomies. Observations were made regarding the ability to create the desired vectors. Angular deviation from desired vectors was determined and recorded numerically by evaluating either submental vertex or occlusal radiographs, stereolithographic models, or digital radiographs. Radiographic evaluation of symmetry alone was not used to determine the desired vector because a more laterally displaced segment was desirable to maintain favorable facial balance when soft tissue deficiency was pronounced. A subjective evaluation scale was developed to supplement the numerical values. Results Vector control primarily required the use of 2 or more principles. The most common combination was that of exaggerated linear distraction and reorientation osteotomy. Conclusion The use of multiple linear vectors, exaggerated linear distraction (“sausage effect”), reorientation osteotomies, and braced guided distraction greatly assisted the operator in achieving the goal of symmetrical reconstruction. Transportation osteogenesis may be considered an effective tool in the box to reconstruct patients. In cases in which vector control is achieved, the advantages of diminishing the volume of bone graft required or achieving final bony reconstruction can outweigh the disadvantages of the technique.
Nuclear physics of cosmic ray interaction with semiconductor materials: particle-induced soft errors from a physicist's perspective

The key issues of cosmic-ray-induced soft-error rates, SER (also referred to as single-event upset, SEU, rates) in microelectronic devices are discussed from the viewpoint of fundamental atomic and nuclear interactions between high-energy particles and semiconductors. From sea level to moderate altitudes, the cosmic ray spectrum is dominated by three particle species: nucleons (protons and neutrons), pions, and muons. The characteristic features of high-energy nuclear reactions of these particles with light elements are reviewed. A major cause of soft errors is identified to be the ionization electron-hole pairs induced by the secondary nuclear fragments produced in certain processes. These processes are the inelastic collisions between the cosmic ray particles and nuclei in the host material. A state-of-the-art nuclear spallation reaction model, NUSPA, is developed to simulate these reactions. This model is tested and validated by a large set of nuclear experiments. It is used to generate the crucial database for the soft-error simulators which are currently used throughout IBM for device and circuit analysis. The relative effectiveness of nucleons, pions, and muons as soft-error-inducing agents is evaluated on the basis of nuclear reaction rate calculations and energy-deposition analysis.
Hydrocracking of model coal-derived liquid components over a zeolite catalyst

Hydrocracking of fluorene was investigated over a nickel-loaded Y zeolite in a fixed-bed flow reactor using decalin as a donor solvent. Over the range of space-time and temperature variables investigated, no thermal reactions were observed, nor did hydrogen pressure significantly affect the kinetics. Deactivation (in part due to coking) was significant and coke formation was found to be a function of catalyst exposure time but was not included in the kinetic model, as the pathway for coke formation was unknown. Two kinetic models were developed using pseudo-homogenous rate expressions descriptive of the hydrocracking chemistry and an overall reaction mechanism was proposed taking into account the roles of the donor solvent, catalyst and hydrogen. The kinetic model incorporates three routes for the cracking of fluorene subsequent to hydrogen transfer from decalin : dealkylation of the side ring, breaking the phenyl-methyl bond of the central ring, and side-ring cracking. The product distribution consisted of benzenes, cyclopentanes, and C2-C6 hydrocarbon gases. Decalin was found to be more reactive than tetralin and avoided significant naphthalene production.
High-frequency jet ventilation: utility in posterior left atrial catheter ablation.

Background Percutaneous catheter ablation in the posterior left atrium (LA) is a technically demanding procedure that in our experience is best accomplished using general anesthesia, including endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation. However, using conventional intermittent positive-pressure ventilation (IPPV) technique, we were dissatisfied with motion of the posterior LA. This occurred during changes in lung volume, which destabilized ablation electrode–endocardial contact. We hypothesized that use of high-frequency jet ventilation (HFJV), a low-volume, fast-rate technique, would reduce posterior LA motion and thus facilitate the ablation procedure. Objectives The purpose of this study was to demonstrate that, relative to IPPV, HFJV reduces posterior LA motion and facilitates catheter ablation in this region. Methods Patients who underwent posterior LA ablation using HFJV (n = 36) were retrospectively compared with those in whom IPPV (n = 36) was used. Indices examined included number of radiofrequency energy applications, electrode temperature, and procedure time. A prospective direct comparison of the impact of HFJV and IPPV on LA volume and mechanical function was performed in an additional 10 patients. Results Fewer ablation lesions were required in the HFJV group because of fewer incidences of ablation electrode dislodgment, resulting in significantly decreased procedure time. Although there was no significant difference in maximal electrode temperature achieved during radiofrequency application, temperature variation was diminished in the HFJV group. Direct comparison demonstrated that HFJV produced less variation in LA volume, pressure, pulmonary vein blood flow velocity, and posterior LA position than IPPV. Conclusion Relative to IPPV, HFJV yields a more stable posterior LA environment, thus facilitating catheter ablation. Use of HFJV may be applicable to other interventional cardiovascular procedures.
Influence of microstructure on the electrochemical performance of LiMn2−y−zLiyNizO4 spinel cathodes in rechargeable lithium batteries

Abstract LiMn 2− y − z Li y Ni z O 4 (0≤ y ≤0.075 and 0≤ z ≤0.075) cathodes have been synthesized by two procedures at 800 °C in air: (1) standard solid state reactions of Li 2 CO 3 , Mn 2 O 3 and NiO (oxide method) and (2) reaction of a Li ∼0.5 MnO 2 precursor supplied by a commercial firm with lithium and nickel hydroxides (precursor method). The samples have been characterized by X-ray diffraction, surface area, manganese dissolution, scanning electron microscopy, and electrochemical charge–discharge measurements. The co-substituted LiMn 2− y − z Li y Ni z O 4 (0.04≤ y ≤0.075 and 0.05≤ z ≤0.075) samples obtained by both the oxide and precursor methods exhibit superior capacity retention, rate capability, and storage characteristics compared to both LiMn 2 O 4 and LiMn 1.97 Li 0.03 O 4 . While the rate capability and storage characteristics of the LiMn 2− y − z Li y Ni z O 4 samples do not differ significantly between the two synthesis procedures, the samples obtained by the precursor method exhibit slightly better capacity retention despite a higher amount of manganese dissolution than the samples obtained by the oxide method. The differences are attributed to the larger and more uniform size of the secondary particles and smaller primary particles of the former compared to those of the latter.
ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICITY, REDOX SIGNALING AND LUNG INFLAMMATION: THE ROLE OF GLUTATHIONE

Glutathione (γ-glutamyl-cysteinyl-glycine, GSH) is the most abundant intracellular antioxidant thiol and is central to redox defense during oxidative stress. GSH metabolism is tightly regulated and has been implicated in redox signaling and also in protection against environmental oxidant-mediated injury. Changes in the ratio of the reduced and disulfide form (GSH/GSSG) can affect signaling pathways that participate in a broad array of physiological responses from cell proliferation, autophagy and apoptosis to gene expression that involve H2O2 as a second messenger. Oxidative stress due to oxidant/antioxidant imbalance and also due to environmental oxidants is an important component during inflammation and respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and asthma. It is known to activate multiple stress kinase pathways and redox sensitive transcription factors such as Nrf2, NF-κB and AP-1, which differentially regulate the genes for pro-inflammatory cytokines as well as the protective antioxidant genes. Understanding the regulatory mechanisms for the induction of antioxidants, such as GSH, versus pro-inflammatory mediators at sites of oxidant-directed injuries may allow for the development of novel therapies which will allow pharmacological manipulation GSH synthesis during inflammation and oxidative injury. This article features the current knowledge about the role of GSH in redox signaling, GSH biosynthesis and particularly the regulation of transcription factor Nrf2 by GSH and downstream signaling during oxidative stress and inflammation in various pulmonary diseases. We also discussed the current therapeutic clinical trials using GSH and other thiol compounds, such as N-acetyl-L-cysteine, fudosteine, carbocysteine, erdosteine in environment-induced airways disease.
Determination of Hair Density in the Mink

Hair density estimations were made from microscopic cross sectional preparations of hair samples taken from dressed mink pelts and living animals. A cork borer was used to delineate an area of skin bearing a hair sample in pelts and an instrument originally developed to measure hair density in sheep and rabbits was used to remove hair from living animals. The estimated average hair density for five dressed female mink pelts was 24,163 underfur fibers per square centimeter and 380 guard hairs per square centimeter. The values determined for these hair types in 20 dressed male pelts were 20,803 and 295 fibers per square centimeter, respectively. Average underfur density per square centimeter in nine living mink was 14,712, or 34 per cent less than the average for dressed pelts.
Quantum Chemical Modeling of Methanol Oxidation Mechanisms by Methanol Dehydrogenase Enzyme: Effect of Substitution of Calcium by Barium in the Active Site

Previous experimental studies have shown that the activation energy for methanol oxidation by naturally occurring Ca(2+)-containing methanol dehydrogenase (MDH) enzyme is double the methanol activation energy by Ba(2+)-MDH. However, neither the reason for this difference nor the specific transition states and intermediates involved during the methanol oxidation by Ba(2+)-MDH have been clearly stated. Hence, an MDH active site model based on the well-documented X-ray crystallographic structure of Ca(2+)-MDH is selected, where the Ca(2+) is replaced by a Ba(2+) ion at the active site center, and the addition-elimination (A-E) and hydride-transfer (H-T) methanol oxidation mechanisms, already proposed in the literature for Ca(2+)-MDH, are tested for Ba(2+)-MDH at the BLYP/DNP theory level. Changes in the geometries and energy barriers for all the steps are identified, and qualitatively, similar (when compared to Ca(2+)-MDH) intermediates and transition states associated with each step of the mechanisms are found in the case of Ba(2+)-MDH. For both the A-E and H-T mechanisms, almost all the free-energy barriers associated with all of the steps are reduced in the presence of Ba(2+)-MDH, and they are kinetically feasible. The free energy barriers for methanol oxidation by Ba(2+)-MDH, particularly for the rate-limiting steps of both mechanisms, are almost half the corresponding barriers calculated for the case of Ca(2+)-MDH, which is in agreement with experimental observations.
Creative Calls for Coherence: Ernest L. Boyer and Christian Higher Education

Like almost all sectors of American society, higher education underwent unprecedented waves of change during the latter half of the 20th century. At the same time that schools on all levels were pr...
The central source in the supernova remnant G127.1 + 0.5

THE discovery1 of a very small diameter radio source with a very flat spectrum at the centre of the galactic supernova remnant G127.1 + 0.5 has stimulated much interest2–4. Because the central source has unusual properties, and because the a priori probability of finding such an object at the very centre of a supernova remnant is exceedingly low, Caswell1 suggested that the central radio source might be emanating from the collapsed stellar remnant of the supernova that produced the surrounding shell of radio emission. This intriguing idea was pursued by Salter, Pauls and Halsam3 who showed that the extended supernova remnant is perfectly normal in shape and in radio spectrum, while the central source has a spectrum that is flat from 3 to 15 GHz at a flux density of 0.5 Jansky. A long-baseline interferometric measurement by Shaffer et al.4 at 10.65 GHz showed that the angular size of the central source is about 0.0005 arcs. We now present evidence from direct optical observation suggesting that the link between the central source and the supernova remnant is purely circumstantial.
Carbon‐Nanotube Based Electrochemical Biosensors: A Review

This review addresses recent advances in carbon-nanotubes (CNT) based electrochemical biosensors. The unique chemical and physical properties of CNT have paved the way to new and improved sensing devices, in general, and electrochemical biosensors, in particular. CNT-based electrochemical transducers offer substantial improvements in the performance of amperometric enzyme electrodes, immunosensors and nucleic-acid sensing devices. The greatly enhanced electrochemical reactivity of hydrogen peroxide and NADH at CNT-modified electrodes makes these nanomaterials extremely attractive for numerous oxidase- and dehydrogenase-based amperometric biosensors. Aligned CNT “forests” can act as molecular wires to allow efficient electron transfer between the underlying electrode and the redox centers of enzymes. Bioaffinity devices utilizing enzyme tags can greatly benefit from the enhanced response of the biocatalytic-reaction product at the CNT transducer and from CNT amplification platforms carrying multiple tags. Common designs of CNT-based biosensors are discussed, along with practical examples of such devices. The successful realization of CNT-based biosensors requires proper control of their chemical and physical properties, as well as their functionalization and surface immobilization.
The ontogeny and phylogeny of cellular differentiation in Volvox.

Abstract A simple pattern of dichotomous cellular differentiation and an accessible genetic system combine to make Volvox an exceptionally promising model for elucidating the molecular genetic basis of a defined program of cytodifferentiation. At the same time, its close relationship to simpler organisms that lack differentiated cell types makes Volvox an equally promising model for analysing the molecular genetic changes involved in the evolution of multicellularity and division of labor.
Induced polarization measurements on unsaturated, unconsolidated sands

Induced polarization (IP) measurements were obtained on unsaturated, unconsolidated sediments during (1) evaporative drying and (2) pressure drainage followed by subsequent imbibition (water reentry). Porous ceramic discs were used with existing laboratory IP instrumentation to permit accurate IP measurements on unsaturated samples. Polarization magnitude during evaporative drying approximates a power law dependence on saturation. Saturation exponents for the polarization term were consistently less than Archie conduction exponents, although no clear relationship between the exponents was observed. The polarization measured over a pressure drainage and imbibition cycle exhibits a complex (yet similar between tested samples) saturation dependence, being a function of saturation range and saturation history. Polarization is observed to increase with saturation over certain saturation intervals, yet decrease with saturation over others. High polarization observed during sample imbibition is consistent with a...
Children's discovery of the conservation of mass, weight, and volume: Piaget replication study. II.

(1961). Children's Discovery of the Conservation of Mass, Weight, and Volume: Piaget Replication Study II. The Journal of Genetic Psychology: Vol. 98, No. 2, pp. 219-227.
Ratio prophet inequalities for convex functions of partial sums

Let x,, x,,... be independent mean zero random variables and set S, =X, + . * * +X,, and S,* = maxi ~ k ~ ,,S: . We are interested in comparing Sz and S,* for large values of their ranges. Since we cannot compare their tail probabilities directly, we compare ENS,*) with E@(Sz), where @ is any non-decreasing non negative convex function on [O, m). For the convex functions Q,(x) = I x I ‘, square function inequalities are known to become proportionately worse and worse as P + 00. (See Hitczenko (1990) for a summary of what is known.) It may therefore seem surprising that for all @, n and Xi,. . . , X,,, E@(S,*) , Y) (3) for all y sufficiently large (perhaps depending on IZ and Xi, . . . , X,). This inequality is trivial if the variates are symmetric. But even in the i.i.d. case it is essentially false, as shown by B. Davis (for n = 2). To see this, let X, and X, be i.i.d. mean zero random variables with P(X, 'Y) = & and P(X,= -:)=A.
Macroinfauna of a Southern New England salt marsh: seasonal dynamics and production

The animal-habitat relationships and seasonal dynamics of the benthic macroinfauna were investigated from November 1986 to October 1988 in the Great Sippe-wissett salt marsh (Massachusetts, USA). Total macrofaunal abundance varied seasonally, displaying a peak in late spring and early summer, then declining sharply during late summer and recovering briefly in fall before collapsing in winter. Three macroinfaunal assemblages were found in the marsh, distributed along gradients of environmental factors. These included a sandy non-organic sediment assemblage, a sandy organic sediment assemblage and a muddy sediment assemblage. The species groups characteristic of unstable sandy non-organic sediments included the polychaetes Leitoscoloplos fragilis, Aricidea jefreyssi, Magelona rosea and Streptosyllis verrilli, the oligochaete Paranais litoralis, and the crustacean Acanthohaustorius millsi. Sandy organic sediments were characterized by the polychaetes Marenzelleria viridis, Capitella capitata, Neanthes succinea, N. arenaceodonta, Polydora ligni and Heteromastus filiformis, the oligochaete Lumbricillus sp., and the mollusc Gemma gemma. In muddy sites, the polychaete Streblospio benedicti and the oligochaetes Paranais litoralis and Monopylephorus evertus were the dominant species. Secondary production of benthic macroinfauna in each of these habitats was estimated. The highest values of biomass and production were recorded in the sandy organic sediments. Secondary production was estimated to be 1850 kJ m-2 yr-1 in sandy organic areas, but only 281 kJ m-2 yr-1 in sandy non-organic areas and 113 kJ m-2 yr-1 in muddy areas. This results in an area-weighted average production of 505 kJ m-2 yr-1 for the unvegetated areas of the marsh. The Great Sippewissett salt marsh has an area of 483800 m2, the total secondary production of the macroinfauna for the whole unvegetated area of the marsh was estimated as 4651 kg dry wt yr-1, expressed as somatic growth. This production value seems consistent with production data obtained for other intertidal North Atlantic environments.
Karyotyping of yeast strains of several genera by field inversion gel electrophoresis

Field inversion gel electrophoresis has been used to improve the resolution of the large chromosomes (greater than 1000 kb) present in Saccharomyces kluyveri and in several genera of yeasts other than Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and thus establish more accurately the electrophoretic karyotype of these yeasts. Field inversion gel electrophoresis has also been used to demonstrate the presence of chromosome length polymorphisms in several of the yeasts studied. By Southern blotting techniques the greater degree of relatedness of S. kluyveri and Kluyveromyces lactis to S. cerevisiae, as compared to that of the other genera of yeasts studied, has been established.
NAWAL EL SAADAWI, The Innocence of the Devil, trans. Sherif Hetata (Berkeley: University of California Press, 1998). Pp. 278.

Originally published in 1994, The Innocence of the Devil, by the Egyptian feminist Nawal El Saadawi, has been reissued in a paperback edition with a striking cover. Included in this edition is a well-written and well-documented Introduction by Fedwa Malti-Douglas, which provides a review of El Saadawi's life, a summary of the story, and insights into many aspects of the book. Malti-Douglas is a professor of Near Eastern Languages and Cultures at Indiana University, Bloomington, and a commentator on El Saadawi's works and life. El Saadawi, a medical doctor and a writer, has used both her fiction and nonfiction as social commentaries on Egyptian—and more specifically, Muslim—society. She was educated in Cairo and the United States, practiced as a physician in Egypt, was director of health education in the Egyptian Ministry of Health from 1958 to 1972, has served on United Nations commissions, and is a practicing psychiatrist. Over the years, she has written several nonfiction books along with numerous short stories and novels. In this book, she comments on many facets of Egyptian culture, but the main thrust is that religion is the underlying cause of women's oppression. She emphasizes theological patriarchy in terms of monotheism (a single male god), the weakness of Eve as fallen woman, a male Satan (the serpent), and males designated as religious leaders who hold authority over women.
The role of scanpaths in the recognition of random shapes

Eye movements of 12 Ss were examined during learning and recognition of two-dimensional random shapes to determine the nature of the memorial representation of a stimulus and the utilization of this memorial representation in pattern recognition. Specifically, the purpose of this study was to test the scanpath model of pattern perception by determining whether scanpaths exist and, if so, how they influence recognition performance. Scanpaths, defined as overlapping fixation patterns in learning and recognition tasks, were observed in over half of all eye-movement records regardless of shape complexity. Presence of scanpaths did not increase recognition performance as measured by errors in recognition and Ss’ ability to reproduce the shapes. Although scanpaths did not influence recognition performance, their occurrence implicates them as a potential factor in the recognition process.
Histofluorescence study of chromaffin cells in dissociated cell cultures of chick embryo sympathetic ganglia

Chromaffin cells were studied by fluorescence microscopy in long-term cell cultures of dissociated chick embryo sympathetic ganglia. These cells were distinguishable in culture from the sympathetic ganglionic neurons by their small size, relative infrequency of occurrence, intense fluorescence and survival in the absence of nerve growth factor (NGF). By several weeks in culture, with or without NGF in the medium, the chromaffin cells produced extensive ramifications of fluorescent varicose processes. It is suggested that at least part of the intraganglionic system of adrenergic varicose terminals arises from chromaffin cells. This capability with regard to fiber production lends credence to the suggestion that chromaffin cells may play an active role in ganglionic function.