cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Restoring synovial homeostasis in rheumatoid arthritis by targeting fibroblast-like synoviocytes

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic immune-mediated disease that primarily affects the synovium of diarthrodial joints. During the course of RA, the synovium transforms into a hyperplastic invasive tissue that causes destruction of cartilage and bone. Fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS), which form the lining of the joint, are epigenetically imprinted with an aggressive phenotype in RA and have an important role in these pathological processes. In addition to producing the extracellular matrix and joint lubricants, FLS in RA produce pathogenic mediators such as cytokines and proteases that contribute to disease pathogenesis and perpetuation. The development of multi-omics integrative analyses have enabled new ways to dissect the mechanisms that imprint FLS, have helped to identify potential FLS subsets with distinct functions and have identified differences in FLS phenotypes between joints in individual patients. This Review provides an overview of advances in understanding of FLS biology and highlights omics approaches and studies that hold promise for identifying future therapeutic targets.
Management of hypertension in COVID-19

The ACE2 receptor plays a central role in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 host cell entry and propagation. It has therefore been postulated that angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers may upregulate ACE2 expression and thus increase susceptibility to infection. We suggest that alternative anti-hypertensive agents should be preferred among individuals who may be exposed to this increasingly common and potentially lethal virus.
Project Ashdod: exhibition structure as a reflection of urban environment

Informed by pioneering urban sociologist Robert Park, this study proposes a new layer of investigation of urban practices: the analysis of art projects. The unique story of Ashdod, a coastal city i...
Diclofenac Sodium Stability in Simulated Gastrointestinal Fluids and the Use of MCM-41 Silica Carrier with Surface Modification to Achieve Innovative Delayed Release

Objectives: Porous silicon materials were first reported to be biocompatible in 1995. This project employed the evaluation of whether diclofenac sodium is acid labile or acid insoluble. Second, literature only reported 15% of alendronate entrapment in unmodified Mobil Composition of Matter No. 41 (MCM-41). Will functionalization of carry surface enhance drug entrapment? This project also assessed storage stability. Methods: Diclofenac sodium was subject to 0.1 N hydrochloric acid for 2 h, then in phosphate buffer pH 6.8 to determine the acid lability versus poor aqueous solubility. Entrapment parameters for unmodified MCM-41 were determined among stock concentration, driving medium, equilibration method, rate and duration. MCM-41 was then surface functionalized by tetraethylenepentamine/2-amino-2-methyl-1-propanol/ anhydrous alcohol and air dried into powder. Functionalized batch followed the same entrapment protocol as the unmodified MCM-41. Liquid chromatography and Fourier Transform Infrared were done at time zero and 3 months later. Results: Under the described conditions, the entrapment efficiency of diclofenac loaded amino-functionalized MCM-41 prepared by the immersion method was significant (p < 0.05) at 44.76% ± 3.88%, n = 3. The FT-IR spectra showed the loss of primary and protonated amino groups vibration in the 3-month-old unloaded-amino-modified MCM-41 group after being stored in room temperature. However, in the diclofenac loaded aminomodified- MCM-41 group, most amino group vibrations were still present. Conclusion: Diclofenac sodium is poorly aqueous soluble in simulating gastric fluid. Although diclofenac sodium is a cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor, for the prolonged use in pain treatment, amino-surface-functionalization of MCM-41 may be performed to enhance drug entrapment and delay drug release due to electrostatic attraction and repulsion.
Limiting Bias from Test-Control Interference in Online Marketplace Experiments

Many internet firms use A/B tests to make product decisions. In an A/B test, the typical objective is to measure the total average treatment effect (TATE), which measures the difference between the average outcome if all users were treated and the average outcome if all users were untreated. However, a simple difference-in-means estimator will give a biased estimate of the TATE when outcomes of control units depend on the outcomes of treatment units, an issue we refer to as test-control interference. Practically speaking, this type of interference is quite common in online marketplaces and failure to account for it can lead to estimates that are inflated by a factor of 100\%. Using a simulation built on top of data from Airbnb, this paper considers the use of methods from the network interference literature for online marketplace experimentation. We model the marketplace as a network in which an edge exists between two sellers if their goods substitute for one another. We then simulate seller outcomes, specifically considering a "status quo" context and "treatment" context that forces all sellers to lower their prices. We use the same simulation framework to approximate TATE distributions produced by using blocked graph cluster randomization, exposure modeling, and the Hajek estimator for the difference in means. We find that while blocked graph cluster randomization reduces the bias of the naive difference-in-means estimator by as much as 62%, it also significantly increases the variance of the estimator. On the other hand, the use of more sophisticated estimators produces mixed results. While some provide (small) additional reductions in bias and small reductions in variance, others lead to increased bias and variance. Overall, our results suggest that experiment design and analysis techniques from the network experimentation literature are promising tools for reducing bias due to test-control interference in marketplace experiments.
Potential unintended consequences of class-wide drug scheduling based on chemical structure: A cautionary tale for fentanyl-related compounds

Abstract Illicitly manufactured fentanyl and its analogs (i.e., fentanyl-related compounds) have flooded the street drug market in recent years and the continuing rise in opioid-related overdose deaths in the United States (U.S.) is now attributed primarily to these compounds. In response to this crisis, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) enacted a 2-year emergency class-wide ban on fentanyl-related compounds by temporarily placing them into Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act, meaning that these compounds have high abuse potential but no approved therapeutic use (Docket No. DEA-476 21 CFR Part 1308; Federal Register Vol 83, No. 25, February 6, 2018). The initial temporary class-wide scheduling of fentanyl-related compounds was re-authorized on February 6, 2020 and will remain in effect until May 6, 2021. While this action is understandable from a law enforcement perspective because it theoretically will make it easier to prosecute those who illicitly manufacture these substances, it is likely to have several unintended consequences from a scientific and medical perspective that may hamper our ability to combat the opioid crisis in the long run. The current paper describes these unintended consequences. The main problem with class-wide bans is that potentially thousands of compounds are defined solely by their chemical structures without regard for their pharmacological activity. As such, an antagonist (i.e., a medication that could be used to reverse an overdose but would not produce a drug “high”) could be mistakenly included in the class-wide ban. Another unintended consequence of a class-wide ban on synthetic fentanyl-like compounds is that the regulatory burden may complicate the development of novel medical interventions such as vaccines and monoclonal antibodies for treating opioid use disorders (OUD) and preventing fentanyl-related overdoses. There is much that we do not understand about how to most effectively treat fentanyl-related overdoses and OUD so any regulatory effort hindering research in this area will be counterproductive in the long term.
Time-Dependent Yielding of Polymer Thin Films Under Creep

This paper focuses on developing a time-dependent yield criterion for a polymer thin film, namely StratoFilm 420, under long-term creep conditions. StratoFilm 420 is a linear low-density polyethylene film used in constructing super-pressure balloons in the Ultra-Long Duration Balloon (ULDB) program of NASA. Yielding of StratoFilm 420 under long-term loading has been found to cause balloon failure and limit the operational duration. Knowledge of time-dependent yielding behavior of StratoFilm 420 under different stresses and temperatures is essential to design reliable balloon structures. In this paper, a previously developed nonlinear viscoelastic model for the film and its model parameter calibration are first described. The experimental procedure for characterizing the onset of permanent deformation is presented. The yield limit is determined using the strain recovery method using creep tests with different durations and measuring the corresponding residual strains. The variation of yield strains is presented with respect to stress levels and temperature. A free energy-based criterion combined with nonlinear free volume model is proposed for predicting yielding of StratoFilm 420.
Ford's Jurisdictional Crossroads

In six personal jurisdiction decisions over the last nine years, the Roberts Court upended several previously accepted jurisdictional norms. Academic commentaries on these decisions are mostly critical, while corporate business interests and the defense bar largely celebrate the results. Some academic critics suggest the Court’s new jurisdictional revolution masquerades the Justices’ pro-business, anti-consumer, and anti-litigant policy preferences. Others hypothesize that the decisions could stem from the Court’s formalistic respect for state regulatory and territorial boundaries vis-a-vis sovereign sister-state interests and transnational comity concerns. The Supreme Court may soon settle this debate. During the October 2020 Term, the Court will consider consolidated products liability cases against Ford Motor Co.—one from Minnesota and one from Montana—that raise a question going to the heart of traditional state judicial authority: Do state courts have sovereign judicial power to protect their citizens from allegedly dangerous products by compelling a product manufacturer conducting extensive in-state marketing and sales to answer claims for its products causing injury in the state but not designed, manufactured, or originally sold there? If the Court ultimately affirms the state courts’ jurisdictional assertions, then the Roberts Court’s personal jurisdiction jurisprudence likely prioritizes horizontal federalism and international comity as independent due process considerations, placing new restrictions on state judicial authority when the forum state’s regulatory authority is minimal compared to that of other sovereigns. If, however, the Court reverses the state court rulings, then the Court will have prioritized policy concerns championed by corporate defendants—limiting litigation exposure and better correlating litigation risks to in-state sales volume—over the traditionally well-accepted adjudicative reach of state courts. The Court’s choice between state judicial power and corporate interests here will foreshadow not only the future of jurisdictional doctrine, but also the broader availability of access to justice under the Roberts Court.
From mixed economy to entangled political economy: a Paretian social-theoretic orientation

This paper compares and contrasts two visions of political economy. These visions aren’t antagonistic, just different. The mixed economy vision associated with Ludwig von Mises and Sanford Ikeda treats politics as intervening into markets. The entangled political economy vision treats politics and markets as overlapping subsystems within a society. Entangled political economy thus descends from a theory of society and social processes. Similarly to quantum entanglement where the state of a particle cannot be described independently of that of other particles, entanglement in political economy means that rational market action cannot be defined independently of rational political action. The focal point of entangled political economy, moreover, is on individual actors and their search for gain within different action environments. Interaction among individuals across those environments generates societal tectonics, thereby adding insights from Vilfredo Pareto about social theory to those of Mises and Ikeda about interventionism.
The Relaxin Receptor

The relaxin receptor has been elusive for an unusually long time 1 and still is not terribly forthcoming with detailed information. While the interaction with its natural ligand is quite strong the high nonspecific binding, which is a property of relaxin, has made the usual radioligand-mediated detection methods quite difficult. In contrast, insulin has low nonspecific binding, but shows specific binding up to 80% of the total radioactivity bound. The relaxin system gives 50% specific binding at best and usually shows around 30%, and that only after major efforts in tracer design, preparation and purification.
The Determinants of NFL Viewership: Evidence from Nielsen Ratings

Television ratings provide a measure of the number of viewers for every NFL football game, however these ratings do not reveal the viewers' motivation for watching the game. Using Nielsen ratings for locally televised NFL football games, this study investigates the determinants of NFL viewership. Data are compiled for 496 NFL games during the 2000 and 2001 seasons. The results suggest evidence of race, team success, and the closeness of the contest as significant determinants of NFL viewership.
SU-E-J-267: Change in Mean CT Intensity of Lung Tumors During Radiation Treatment

Purpose: To evaluate CT intensity change of lung tumors during radiation therapy. Methods: Repeated 4D CT images were acquired on a CT simulator during the course of therapy for 27 lung cancer patients on IRB approved protocols. All subjects received definitive radiation treatment ± chemotherapy. CT scans were completed prior to treatment, and 2–7 times during the treatment course. Primary tumor was delineated by an experienced Radiation Oncologist. Contours were thresholded between −100 HU and 200 HU to remove airways and bone. Correlations between the change in the mean tumor intensity and initial tumor intensity, SUVmax, and tumor volume change rate were investigated. Reproducibility was assessed by evaluating the variation in mean intensity over all phases in 4DCT, for a subgroup of 19 subjects. Results: Reproducibility of tumor intensity between phases as characterized by the root mean square of standard deviation across 19 subjects was 1.8 HU. Subjects had a mean initial tumor intensity of 16.5 ± 11.6 HU and an overall reduction in HU by 10.3 ± 8.5 HU. Evaluation of the changes in tumor intensity during treatment showed a decrease of 0.3 ± 0.3 HU/day for all subjects, except three. No significant correlation was found between change in HU/day and initial HU intensity (p=0.53), initial PET SUVmax (p=0.69), or initial tumor volume (p=0.70). The rate of tumor volume change was weakly correlated (R^2=0.05) with HU change (p=0.01). Conclusion: Most lung cancer subjects showed a marked trend of decreasing mean tumor CT intensity throughout radiotherapy, including early in the treatment course. Change in HU/day is not correlated with other potential early predictors for response, such as SUV and tumor volume change. This Result supports future studies to evaluate change in tumor intensity on CT as an early predictor of response.
Pharmacokinetic Evaluation of Improved Oral Bioavailability of Valsartan: Proliposomes Versus Self-Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery System

The objective of this study was to develop proliposomes and self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) for a poorly bioavailable drug, valsartan, and to compare their in vivo pharmacokinetics. Proliposomes were prepared by thin-film hydration method using different lipids such as soy phosphatidylcholine (SPC), hydrogenated soy phosphatidylcholine (HSPC), distearyl phosphatidylcholine (DSPC), dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine (DMPC), and dimyristoyl phosphatidylglycerol sodium (DMPG) and cholesterol in various ratios. SNEDDS formulations were prepared using varying concentrations of capmul MCM, labrafil M 2125, and Tween 80. Both proliposomes and SNEDDS were evaluated for particle size, zeta potential, in vitro drug release, in vitro permeability, and in vivo pharmacokinetics. In vitro drug release was carried out in purified water and 0.1 N HCl using USP type II dissolution apparatus. In vitro drug permeation was studied using parallel artificial membrane permeation assay (PAMPA) and everted rat intestinal permeation techniques. Among the formulations, the proliposomes with drug/DMPG/cholesterol in the ratio of 1:1:0.5 and SNEDDS with capmul MCM (16.0% w/w), labrafil M 2125 (64.0% w/w), and Tween 80 (18.0% w/w) showed the desired particle size and zeta potential. Enhanced drug release was observed with proliposomes and SNEDDS as compared to pure valsartan. Valsartan permeability across PAMPA and everted rat intestinal permeation models was significantly higher with proliposomes and SNEDDS. Following single oral administration of proliposomes and SNEDDS, a relative bioavailability of 202.36 and 196.87%, respectively, was achieved compared to pure valsartan suspension. The study results indicated that both proliposomes and SNEDDS formulations are comparable in improving the oral bioavailability of valsartan.
On the role of canonicity in bottom-up knowledge compilation

We consider the problem of bottom-up compilation of knowledge bases, which is usually predicated on the existence of a polytime function for combining compilations using Boolean operators (usually called an Apply function). While such a polytime Apply function is known to exist for certain languages (e.g., OBDDs) and not exist for others (e.g., DNNF), its existence for certain languages remains unknown. Among the latter is the recently introduced language of Sentential Decision Diagrams (SDDs), for which a polytime Apply function exists for unreduced SDDs, but remains unknown for reduced ones (i.e. canonical SDDs). We resolve this open question in this paper and consider some of its theoretical and practical implications. Some of the findings we report question the common wisdom on the relationship between bottom-up compilation, language canonicity and the complexity of the Apply function.
Contrast-enhanced MR of cerebral arteritis: Intravascular enhancement related to flow stasis within areas of focal arterial ectasia

The authors present a case of probable amphetamine-induced cerebral arteritis in a 31-year-old man with AIDS, testicular carcinoma, and recurrent pneumocystis pneumonia. MR enhancement was demonstrated in areas of focal arterial ectasia, presumably due to slow flow. CT, MR, and angiographic findings were strikingly confirmed postmortem. Angiography remains essential in the diagnosis of cerebral arteritis.
Readmission penalties and health insurance expansions: a dispatch from Massachusetts.

BACKGROUND Payers are penalizing hospitals for high readmission rates. It is unknown whether major changes in population insurance coverage can affect readmission rates, despite the Affordable Care Act's coverage expansions coming into effect this year. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the impact of a large-scale insurance expansion on hospital readmissions, using Massachusetts' 2006 health reform as a natural experiment. DESIGN Difference-in-difference time-series design. SETTING All Massachusetts acute-care hospitals. PATIENTS Inpatient visits from 2004 to 2010. MEASUREMENTS Primary outcome was the hospital 30-day readmission rate. Readmissions to any Massachusetts hospital were tracked. RESULTS Decreases in uninsurance rates during and after reform were largely limited to the hospital quartile with the highest prereform uninsurance rates (from 14% uninsured at the start of the reform to 2.9% by the end of the study period). The other hospitals collectively experienced a smaller decline in their uninsured admissions (5.9% at the start of reform to 2.5% by the end of the study period). According to difference-in-difference regression analysis, the highest uninsured hospital quartile experienced a modest increase in their unadjusted readmission rate of 0.6 percentage points (95% confidence interval: 0.1%–1.1%) during the reform period as compared to the other hospital quartiles (P = 0.01). This represents a relative increase of 4.5% in the readmission rate. Risk-adjusted readmission rates showed no corresponding change. CONCLUSIONS The Affordable Care Act's insurance expansion may be associated with an increase in unadjusted readmission rates among hospitals that cared for disproportionate numbers of uninsured patients. Risk-adjustment appears to take this effect into account. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2014;9:681–687. © 2014 Society of Hospital Medicine
Interlanguage Pragmatic Development: The Study Abroad Context by SCHAUER, GILA A.

The article reviews the book "Interlanguage Pragmatic Development: The Study Abroad Context," by Gila A. Schauer.
Understanding Common Attribute Devaluation in Multifunctional Products

Multifunctional products are increasingly marketed, yet relatively little research exists on their effectiveness. Some research indicates that adding attributes enhances product perceptions, while other work suggests the opposite. Supporting the second conclusion, when both a multifunctional and specialized product contained the same attribute, consumers devalued the attribute in the multifunctional product when the two products were in the same choice set. This contrasting perspective is addressed by investigating which marketing strategies mitigate or even reverse common attribute devaluation. In three studies, positioning, price level, and supporting benefits are examined. Complete positioning mitigates common attribute devaluation in multifunctional products, but this effect is moderated by price level and supporting benefits.
Improved lower bounds on embedding distortion in information hiding

The previous steganographic algorithm results in the modification of the image statistic, especially histogram of the coefficients. We propose a method to compensate for the histogram modification due to embedding. The new algorithm estimates the modification before the embedding process has started and modifies the histogram in advance so that the modification due to embedding is less noticeable. We have implemented our methods in Java and performed the extensive experiments with them. The experimental results have shown that our new method improves our previous steganographic algorithms by decreasing distortion and histogram modification.
Photocatalytic degradation of dichloromethane by chlorocuprate(II) ions.

Near UV irradiation of aerated solutions of (Et 4 N) 2 [CuCl 4 ] in dichloromethane causes the decomposition of CH 2 Cl 2 , as evidenced by the buildup of HCI, C 2 H 2 Cl 4 , and peroxides. A net reduction to [CuCl 2 ] - occurs in the early stages, but is later reversed. In CH 2 Cl 2 , [CuCl 4 ] 2- is in equilibrium with [Cu 2 Cl 6 ] 2- , and only the latter species is photoactive. The decomposition is initiated by the photodissociation of chlorine atoms, which propagate to peroxy radicals, CHCl 2 OO. Experimental evidence, including a linear dependence of the decomposition rate on the incident light intensity and on the fraction of light absorbed by [Cu 2 Cl 6 ] 2- , is consistent with a mechanism in which CHCl 2 OO is reduced by electron transfer from [CuCl 2 ] - , following which protonation yields CHCl 2 OOH. The hydroperoxide accumulates during irradiation and it too can reoxidize [CuCl 2 ] - . The quantum yield for HCI production at the outset of irradiation at 313 nm is 1.3 mol/einstein, based on the fraction of light absorbed by [Cu 2 Cl 6 ] 2- .
The Effect of Income Tax Progressivity on Valuations of Income Streams by Individuals

The effect of taxes upon Investment patterns in agriculture is an important policy consideration which has received attention in past issues of this journal. However, some authors have inadequately adjusted income stream valuation formulas for the effect of the individual income tax and have consequently reached incorrect conclusions regarding both the present value of future income and the effect of income tax progressivity on the relative valuations of individuals in different tax brackets. Rodewald (1969, 1971) and Devino considered the effect of taxes and financing upon investment decisions, but their incomplete treatment of income taxes produces a valuation formula which will result in incorrect investment decisions*
Ovarian stimulation and intrauterine insemination at the quarter centennial: implications for the multiple births epidemic

Ovarian stimulation and intrauterine insemination (OS/IUI), a mainstay of current infertility therapy and a common antecedent to IVF, is a significant driver of the multiple births epidemic. Redress of this challenge, now marking its quarter centennial, will require a rethinking of current practice patterns. Herein we explore prospects for prevention, mitigation, and eventual resolution. We conclude that the multiple births attributable to OS/IUI may not be entirely preventable but that the outlook for their mitigation is promising, if in need of solidification. Specifically, we observe that low-dose (≤75 IU) gondotropin, clomiphene, and especially off-label letrozole regimens outperform high-dose (≥150 IU) gonadotropin counterparts in the gestational plurality category while maintaining comparable per-cycle pregnancy rates. Accordingly we recommend that, subject to appropriate exceptions, high-dose gonadotropin regimens be used sparingly and that whenever possible they be replaced with emerging alternatives. Finally, we posit that OS/IUI is not likely to be superseded by IVF absent further commoditization and thus greater affordability.
Space, line and story in the invention of an Andean aesthetic

This article examines Tiguan painting and the conventions of this new native Andean visual art, its representation of space, and the way it portrays traditional and contemporary material culture. Engaging the problem of alternative modes of spatial perception, the author describes how the act of drawing can become a tool of ethnographic exploration. With insights gained through sketching-mediated encounters with artists, the article shows the relevance to Tiguan art of Ingold’s recent arguments about lines as an organic device of narrative and visual ordering. Where formal spatial perspective offers a vocabulary of hierarchical order — foreground, background, vantage point — lines invoke movement, duration and interchange, which become recurrent issues for Tiguan artists.
Trolox C, a lipid-soluble membrane protective agent, attenuates myocardial injury from ischemia and reperfusion

The lipophilic antioxidant Trolox C, a vitamin E analog, was administered to isolated, buffer-perfused rabbit hearts subjected to 25 min of global stop-flow ischemia and 30 min of reperfusion. In six hearts, Trolox C (200 microM) was infused for 15 min immediately prior to ischemia and for the first 15 min of reperfusion. Six control hearts received only vehicle. Gas chromatography analysis confirmed that effective myocardial levels of Trolox were attained. At 30 min reperfusion, the recovery of left ventricular developed pressure was 56 +/- 3% of baseline in control hearts versus 70 +/- 4% in Trolox-treated hearts (p < .01). There was also significant improvement in recovery of Trolox-treated hearts in diastolic pressure and both maximum and minimum values of the first derivative of left ventricular pressure (dP/dt). Creatine phosphokinase release into the coronary effluent at 30 min of reperfusion was 16.5 +/- 8.4 IU/min in untreated and 6.3 +/- 1.0 IU/min (p < .05) in Trolox-treated hearts. Thus Trolox C, a lipophilic antioxidant, attenuated myocardial injury during stop-flow ischemia and reperfusion.
Identification of a gene for a rubrerythrin/nigerythrin-like protein in Spirillum volutans by using amino acid sequence data from mass spectrometry and NH2-terminal sequencing

A hydrogen peroxide-resistant mutant of the catalase-negative microaerophile, Spirillum volutans, constitutively expresses a 21·5 kDa protein that is undetectable and non-inducible in the wild-type cells. Part of the gene that encodes the protein was cloned using amino acid sequence data obtained by both mass spectrometry and NH2-terminal sequencing. The deduced 158 amino acid polypeptide shows high relatedness to rubrerythrin and nigerythrin previously described in the anaerobes Clostridium perfringens and Desulfovibrio vulgaris. The protein also shows high similarity to putative rubrerythrin proteins found in the anaerobic archeons Archaeoglobus fulgidus, Methanococcus jannaschii and Methanobacterium thermoautotrophicum. This is the first report of this type of protein in an organism that must respire with oxygen. It seems likely that the novel combination of methodologies used in this study could be applied to the rapid cloning of other genes in bacteria for which no genomic library yet exists.
Cog, a humanoid robot and the question of the image of God

The general typology for the dialogue between religion and science is built on the assumption that there is an objective world, one reality that can be described. In this paper, I present an alternative epistemological framework for the dialogue that understands all descriptions of reality as symbolic. Therefore, this understanding creates a new possibility for mutual enrichment between the two dialogue partners. I demonstrate the usefulness of this framework by applying it to the dialogue between artificial intelligence (AI) and theology. I discuss an advanced AI project: Cog, a humanoid robot. After briefly describing this project, its assumptions, and the emotions it creates (mainly hope and fear), I show how the project can be enriched by theological insight. The concept of image Dei-the understanding of humans created in the image of God-can be applied to the Cog project especially when it is presented in a way that takes the metaphorical character of both theological and scientific theories seriously.
Mix It Up: Teachers' Beliefs on Mixing Mathematics and Science

This paper defines correlation, describes the Mix It Up program, discusses the teachers' beliefs about the value of correlating mathematics and science prior to program participation, and identifies problems teachers associated with correlation before and during the program. Teachers' beliefs about the value of correlation and about the problems associated with correlation are based on results from both quantitative and qualitative methods used to evaluate the program. Results indicate that teachers believe correlating mathematics and science strengthens students' content knowledge in mathematics and science, bridges the gap between mathematics and science, enhances motivation, and increases students' flexibility in problem solving. Additionally, the areas identified by teachers to be most problematic were time, planning for instruction as a team, and exposure to correlation in the past. The most important finding from the program evaluation indicates that although teachers did not identify content knowledge weaknesses before participating in the program, they did recognize gaps in their own content knowledge during program participation, and more importantly they made connections among these gaps, classroom instruction, and their own students' performance in mathematics and science.
A Preliminary Investigation of the Bidirectional Spectral Reflectance of V-grooved Surfaces

The bidirectional spectral reflectance of a set of V-grooved surfaces has been investigated in an attempt to separate the influences of the mean slope and the peak-to-valley height. The experimental results show good agreement with the theoretical models in both the geometrical optics and diffraction ranges.
L'Arte dei "Romori" : Leonardine Devotion in Luigi Russolo's Oeuvre

ABSTRACT The author has discerned a deep interest in the occult arts at the core of Luigi Russolo's Art of Noises. Such an interest is confirmed by Russolo's admiration for Leonardo da Vinci. Leonardo's writings on music and acoustics constituted in fact a scientific and spiritual paradigm for Russolo; the former's mechanical musical-instrument projects were important models for Russolo's own, from 1913's intonarumori to the nuovo istrumento musicale a corde of 1931. Perhaps because of the futurists' ambivalent position toward the figure of Leonardo (proto-futurist or passatista), Russolo profusely quoted Leonardo but carefully avoided mentioning any borrowing.
Solvation forces and liquid-solid phase equilibria for water confined between hydrophobic surfaces

Solvation force and phase behavior of water confined between hydrophobic surfaces at nanoscale distances have been studied by molecular dynamics simulation of the TIP4P model water. Freezing and melting of confined water are observed at certain intersurface separations in bringing one surface to the other at a fixed temperature and a fixed lateral or bulk pressure. Solvation force curves are found to be discontinuous upon freezing and melting of confined water and exhibit strong hystereses, implying a peculiar manifestation of the hydrophobic effect. The thermodynamics for a confined system at fixed surface separation, temperature, and lateral or bulk pressure is applied for examining the liquid–solid equilibria of confined water.
Molecular Basis of Spectral Tuning in the Red- and Green-Sensitive (M/LWS) Pigments in Vertebrates

Vertebrate vision is mediated by five groups of visual pigments, each absorbing a specific wavelength of light between ultraviolet and red. Despite extensive mutagenesis analyses, the mechanisms by which contemporary pigments absorb variable wavelengths of light are poorly understood. We show that the molecular basis of the spectral tuning of contemporary visual pigments can be illuminated only by mutagenesis analyses using ancestral pigments. Following this new principle, we derive the “five-sites” rule that explains the absorption spectra of red and green (M/LWS) pigments that range from 510 to 560 nm. Our findings demonstrate that the evolutionary method should be used in elucidating the mechanisms of spectral tuning of four other pigment groups and, for that matter, functional differentiations of any other proteins.
Update on metastatic breast cancer.

Although the great majority (80%) of patients diagnosed with breast cancer have disease that is limited to a locoregional area (breast and/or axillary lymph nodes), almost half of them eventually develop metastatic disease. An extensive array of basic and clinical research has been performed throughout the last decade in an attempt to improve the outcome for these patients. In spite of significant recent advances, cure after a diagnosis of metastatic breast cancer is a rather elusive goal utilizing current therapeutic options. At this time there are many therapeutic options and not a single “only” way to treat all patients. Participation in clinical trials remains a major priority. The role of taxanes has been expanded, and new data have started to demonstrate their improved efficacy, compared to older agents, as first-line or second-line therapy for patients with metastatic breast cancer who are eligible for systemic therapy. Paclitaxel with trastuzumab is emerging as the treatment of choice for patients with HER2 overexpressing breast cancer who are eligible for first-line chemotherapy. Given the novel mechanisms of action of new antitumor compounds coupled with their favorable toxicity profiles, however, continued improvements in survival and quality of life may be achieved in patients with advanced disease. The responsibility of the treating physician will continue to include providing patients with clear information on the crucial role of clinical trial participation for proper determination of whether these new alternative therapies should eventually be incorporated as standard of care. The social and economic importance of metastatic breast cancer in our society makes this a priority.
Solutions of the reference-hypernetted-chain equation with minimized free energy

We use the Rosenfeld-Ashcroft procedure of modeling the bridge function in the reference---hypernetted-chain integral equation with its hard-sphere values, and choose the sphere diameter so that the free energy of the system is minimized. The resulting integral equation is solved for both the long-range Coulomb potential and the short-range Lennard-Jones potential. The results are in excellent agreement with Monte Carlo data for the thermodynamics and structure of both systems. The method provides an entirely first-principles approach to the theory of the structure and thermodynamics of simple classical liquids.
Analysis of a loss-compensated recirculating delayed self-heterodyne interferometer for laser linewidth measurement

A loss-compensated recirculating delayed self-heterodyne interferometer (LC-RDSHI) for laser linewidth measurement is theoretically analyzed. An analytical result for the output spectrum of the LC-RDSHI is obtained. It is found that the spectrum from a LC-RDSHI is equivalent to a spectrum from a conventional delayed self-heterodyne interferometer with equivalent time delay and frequency shift, but modified by a periodical function, which could significantly influence the laser linewidth measurement. The parameters of a LC-RDSHI must be optimized to permit an accurate and direct measurement of laser linewidth from the output spectrum.
Coherent backscattering of light in a nematic liquid crystal.

The first observation of coherent backscattering (CB) in an optically anisotropic, homogeneous (liquid crystal) medium with long-range dielectric tensor fluctuations is reported. The results are compared with previous CB experiments in heterogeneous, centrosymmetric, isotropic scattering media and with theoretical predictions for isotropic, noncentrosymmetric media. Fundamental differences and analogies between these cases are observed and explained. Other liquid crystal phases of potential interest in the localization of electromagnetic modes are introduced briefly
Potential population and assemblage influences of non-native trout on native nongame fish in Nebraska headwater streams

Non-native trout are currently stocked to support recreational fisheries in headwater streams throughout Nebraska. The influence of non-native trout introductions on native fish populations and their role in structuring fish assemblages in these systems is unknown. The objectives of this study were to determine (i) if the size structure or relative abundance of native fish differs in the presence and absence of non-native trout, (ii) if native fish-assemblage structure differs in the presence and absence of non-native trout and (iii) if native fish-assemblage structure differs across a gradient in abundances of non-native trout. Longnose dace Rhinichthys cataractae were larger in the presence of brown trout Salmo trutta and smaller in the presence of rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss compared to sites without trout. There was also a greater proportion of larger white suckers Catostomus commersonii in the presence of brown trout. Creek chub Semotilus atromaculatus and fathead minnow Pimephales promelas size structures were similar in the presence and absence of trout. Relative abundances of longnose dace, white sucker, creek chub and fathead minnow were similar in the presence and absence of trout, but there was greater distinction in native fish-assemblage structure between sites with trout compared to sites without trout as trout abundances increased. These results suggest increased risk to native fish assemblages in sites with high abundances of trout. However, more research is needed to determine the role of non-native trout in structuring native fish assemblages in streams, and the mechanisms through which introduced trout may influence native fish populations.
Axial vector current divergences and the pseudoscalar meson spectrum

Abstract The strong anomaly in the axial vector current divergence is simply related to the mass of the ninth pseudoscalar meson in an SU (3) × SU (3) quark model. A discussion is given of the dependence of the pseudoscalar meson masses upon quark masses as well as upon the strong coupling; the SU (3) character of the states is also treated.
Corrected Transposition of the Great Vessels in a 73-Year-Old Man

The case of a 73-year-old white man with corrected transposition of the great vessels and associated mitral and mild aortic regurgitation is reported. The patient's survival was the longest of any patient with this defect reported to date. Although the condition is theoretically compatible with a normal life span, few patients with this lesion survive past 40 years of age because of associated congenital defects or the subsequent development of A-V valvular insufficiency or heart block, or both.
Applications of pulsed EPR spectroscopy to structural studies of sulfite oxidizing enzymes

Sulfite oxidizing enzymes (SOEs), including sulfite oxidase (SO) and bacterial sulfite dehydrogenase (SDH), catalyze the oxidation of sulfite (SO(3) (2-)) to sulfate (SO(4) (2-)). The active sites of SO and SDH are nearly identical, each having a 5-coordinate, pseudo-square-pyramidal Mo with an axial oxo ligand and three equatorial sulfur donor atoms. One sulfur is from a conserved Cys residue and two are from a pyranopterindithiolene (molybdopterin, MPT) cofactor. The identity of the remaining equatorial ligand, which is solvent-exposed, varies during the catalytic cycle. Numerous in vitro studies, particularly those involving electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy of the Mo(V) states of SOEs, have shown that the identity and orientation of this exchangeable equatorial ligand depends on the buffer pH, the presence and concentration of certain anions in the buffer, as well as specific point mutations in the protein. Until very recently, however, EPR has not been a practical technique for directly probing specific structures in which the solvent-exposed, exchangeable ligand is an O, OH(-), H(2)O, SO(3) (2-), or SO(4) (2-) group, because the primary O and S isotopes ((16)O and (32)S) are magnetically silent (I = 0). This review focuses on the recent advances in the use of isotopic labeling, variable-frequency high resolution pulsed EPR spectroscopy, synthetic model compounds, and DFT calculations to elucidate the roles of various anions, point mutations, and steric factors in the formation, stabilization, and transformation of SOE active site structures.
Electron spin resonance studies on graft copolymerization of gaseous styrene onto preirradiated polypropylene. III. Preirradiation under vacuum followed by exposure to oxygen at −78°C

Grafting of styrene vapor was carried out onto polypropylene γ-irradiated under vacuum followed by exposure to oxygen at −78°C. A comparison with the results on polypropylene irradiated in an oxygen atmosphere leads to an interesting result. Two samples were irradiated at room temperature under vacuum and in an oxygen atmosphere, respectively, the former being followed by exposure to oxygen. Although irradiation was carried out at room temperature for either sample and nearly the same amounts of the peroxy radicals are trapped, the former showed more grafting than the latter. The origin of this difference was investigated by means of electron spin resonance. Significant differences were observed in ESR spectra as well as in isothermal decays of the trapped peroxy radicals. In the former sample, the trapped peroxy radicals had a higher mobility, and consequently a significant hydrogen abstraction by the peroxy radicals was observed during storage at 40°C. This result supports the conclusion of the previous paper that the radicals effective in the grafting reaction of polypropylene preirradiated in an oxygen atmosphere are the carbon radicals which are produced by hydrogen abstraction by the peroxy radicals.
Prenatal toxicity of rubratoxin B and its hydrogenated analog.

Abstract Rubratoxin B, a mycotoxin (R), was shown to be mutagenic and teratogenic. Male mice were treated with R, 0.75 or 1.5 mg/kg ip, for 5 days and then mated for 8 consecutive weeks with untreated virgin female mice. R reduced fecundity only at the higher dosage with no change in mating behavior. A dose-related increase in early fetal deaths was observed. Similarly, R induced a dose-related increase in resorption rate among pregnant females treated during gestational Days 8 throught 12. R also produced a significant decrease in fetal body weight and a significant incidence of fetal defects. Hydrogenation of R to saturate the lactone ring reduced the acute toxicity significantly. Hydrogenated R was not mutagenic at doses up to 10 times the mutagenic dose of R. Similarly, hydrogenated R had no effect on prenatal growth and development.
Determination of arsenic by hydride generation coupled to time-of-flight mass spectrometry with a gas sampling glow discharge

Abstract Hydride generation has been used with a gas-sampling glow discharge (GSGD) and time-of-flight mass spectrometry (TOFMS) for the determination of arsenic in solution. Helium, neon, hydrogen, and argon glow discharges have been successfully generated and characterized. Current–pressure–voltage curves were generated for each discharge in the presence and absence of hydride generation. The arsenic detection limit for each of the discharges was found to be 0.60 (HeGSGD), 3.8 (NeGSGD) and 6.4 ppb (H 2 GSGD). The HeGSGD was found to be the most attractive source for arsenic determination due to the lower detection limit, higher sensitivity and greater stability. The figures of merit for these discharges were also compared to those obtained with hydride generation-inductively coupled plasma TOFMS. Noise power spectra obtained for the neon GSGD indicated that no discernible discrete-frequency (whistle-noise) components were present in the analyte signal.
Prostate Cancer With Aberrant Diffuse p63 Expression: Report of a Case and Review of the Literature and Morphologic Mimics

We report a case of a prostatic adenocarcinoma that showed diffuse aberrant p63 expression in the secretory cells and review the literature and differential diagnosis. p63-positive prostatic adenocarcinoma is rare and is typically encountered when working up an atypical focus with basal markers and α-methylacyl coenzyme A racemase. These carcinomas have unusual morphologic features such as atrophic cytoplasm and basaloid morphology. The differential diagnosis includes basal cell hyperplasia and basal cell carcinoma; morphologic features such as the presence of small, infiltrative acini with nuclear atypia, lack of high-molecular-weight cytokeratin expression, and positive α-methylacyl coenzyme A racemase and prostate-specific antigen expression can help distinguish a p63-positive prostatic adenocarcinoma from atypical basal cell proliferations. Current controversies regarding the grading, prognosis, and molecular profile of p63-positive prostatic adenocarcinomas are also discussed.
An alarm system to indicate air-fluid level in the irrigating bottle.

• I have developed an alarm system to indicate the air-fluid level in the irrigating bottle. This system warns the operating personnel before complete loss of infusion fluid occurs.