cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Energy efficient membrane distillation through localized heating

Abstract Membrane-based desalination technologies are crucial for generating clean water, but are energy intensive. Localizing heat generation at the liquid-membrane interface could reduce energy consumption while maintaining sufficient mass flux. Here, a locally heated membrane distillation approach is analytically and experimentally evaluated. The measured evaporated mass flux matches the analytical limits considering diffusive and advective mass transfer across a heated porous membrane into stagnant air. Experimentally, thermally-stable silver membranes demonstrate similar mass flux compared to conventional polymer based membrane at the same surface temperature. At high membrane temperatures (∼80 °C), the locally heated membrane distillation demonstrates good efficiency with up to 75% reduction of energy compared to direct contact membrane distillation and airgap membrane destination. Efficiency can be further improved with better thermal design of the supporting structure and permeate heat recovery.
The Assessment of Cognitive Function in Older Adult Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease: An Integrative Review

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common chronic condition in older adults that is associated with cognitive decline. However, the exact prevalence of cognitive impairment in older adults with CKD is unclear likely due to the variety of methods utilized to assess cognitive function. The purpose of this integrative review is to determine how cognitive function is most frequently assessed in older adult patients with CKD. Five electronic databases were searched to explore relevant literature related to cognitive function assessment in older adult patients with CKD. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were created to focus the search to the assessment of cognitive function with standardized cognitive tests in older adults with CKD, not on renal replacement therapy. Through the search methods, 36 articles were found that fulfilled the purpose of the review. There were 36 different types of cognitive tests utilized in the included articles, with each study utilizing between one and 12 tests. The most commonly utilized cognitive test was the Mini Mental State Exam (MMSE), followed by tests of digit symbol substitution and verbal fluency. The most commonly assessed aspect of cognitive function was global cognition. The assessment of cognitive function in older adults with CKD with standardized tests is completed in various ways. Unfortunately, the common methods of assessment of cognitive function may not be fully examining the domains of impairment commonly found in older adults with CKD. Further research is needed to identify the ideal cognitive test to best assess older adults with CKD for cognitive impairment.
Modulation of heat transfer for extended flame stabilization in porous media burners via topology gradation

Abstract Porous media burners (PMBs) enable enhanced combustion performance by internally recirculating heat released from the combustion products upstream to the reactants via an inert solid matrix. Compared to conventional free-flame systems, PMBs are characterized by higher burning velocities, extended flammability, and lower emissions of NOx. Current PMB implementations utilize a two-zone concept in which the flame stabilizes at the interface between two porous matrices of different topologies. In this work, a PMB design having a spatially graded porous matrix is proposed, supported by theoretical analysis of the governing equations and constitutive relations. Through computations and experiments, it is shown that the proposed physical design of the porous matrix results in a significant enhancement of the power-dynamic range and in excess of 50% higher blow-off limits compared to current designs. This is achieved through gradation in topology (i.e. porosity, pore diameter, cell diameter, etc.), which enables a continuous variation of radiative extinction properties as well as interphase heat exchange, allowing the flame to stabilize dynamically within the porous matrix and for a wider range of operating conditions.
PHOSPHOHEXOSE ON LYSOSOMAL ENZYMES IS THE COMMON RECOGNITION MARKER FOR PINOCYTOSIS RECEPTOR ON FIBROBLASTS

Publisher Summary This chapter presents evidence that the recognition marker for uptake of human β-glucuronidase is a phosphohexosyl moiety on the enzyme and that a similar type recognition marker is present on many other lysosomal glycosidases. Pinocytosis of lysosomal hydrolases by fibroblasts was initially observed by Neufeld and co-workers as uptake of corrective factors by enzyme-deficient fibroblasts. The evidence indicating that the high-uptake recognition marker contained both carbohydrate and an acidic group remained a puzzle until the evidence for phosphomannosyl groups on the enzyme. By contrast, the rate of pinocytosis of high-uptake platelet enzyme was a saturable function of enzyme concentration. To test the possibility that glycosidically bound mannose might be inhibitorier, and that inhibitory potency might be influenced by the linkage of the mannose group to the penultimate sugar, a variety of glycoproteins was examined as pinocytosis inhibitors.
On a Notion of Weak Compactness in Non-Regular Spaces

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses a notion of weak compactness that can be considered as either a strengthening of absolute closure or a weakening of relative compactness depending upon whether one considers entire topological spaces or whether one restricts to subspaces of larger spaces. While these notions are reduced to standard compactness notions in regular spaces, the existence of large families is noted of nonregular Hausdorff spaces that have these new properties but are far from compact. Nevertheless, these properties are not too different from their standard counterparts in that, for example, they are preserved under products and images of continuous functions. The chapter also discusses the analogs of some known generalizations of sequential compactness and shows that various productivity theorems of Scarborough and Stone, Saks and Stephenson, and Frolik, Booth, and the author hold for these new notions. These theorems are then used to construct spaces not having the standard properties but rather only the weak properties.
Railroad Accident Investigation and Reconstruction

This article offers a broad introduction to the fields of railroad accident investigation and reconstruction. Basic investigative techniques applicable to train collisions, derailments, and level-crossing collisions are covered and sample lists of information typically available to the investigator and reconstructionist are set forth.
Characterization of MSCs: From Early Studies to the Present

Studies on mesenchymal stem cells/mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have increased dramatically in the last 10 years, and many clinical trials are underway to take advantage of their properties. Early studies on MSC-like cells were performed in laboratories studying either bone repair or hematopoiesis, but the overlap in these studies was not broadly appreciated. The relationship between MSCs, osteoblastic progenitor cells, and the bone marrow stromal cells that provide support for hematopoietic stem cells has emerged. A variety of assays, in vitro and in vivo, allowed for a broader understanding of the MSCs and their characteristics. The MSCs from different animal species have properties similar to those from man, and this has allowed for many animal studies that provided preclinical support for human clinical trials with MSCs. While there are many established characteristics, new understanding of the MSC and the interaction of MSCs with other cell types, including HSCs and those of the immune system, will continue to reveal new and useful understanding of MSC properties.
Production Possibility Set, Activity Analysis and Equilibria of Production Sectors

A production possibility set and the surface of a production possibility set called a product transformation curve (or surface) is a very popular concept employed often in undergraduate textbooks and in applied economics. It provides us with a summary of production sectors incorporating the initial endowment of resources and technological constraints. The usefulness of the concept of a production possibility set originates in two basic assumptions or restrictions on an economy: (a) that commodities can be classified into producible commodities and nonproducible commodities called primary factors of production, and (b) that the supply of primary factors are inelastic or fixed. Thus given the supply of primary factors of production and given technology sets of production sectors, the set of feasible production can be projected onto the space of producible goods and this generates a production possibility set summarizing the endowment of primary factors and technological restrictions in the space of producible goods. This reduction of the endowment of primary factors and production sectors into a production possibility set enables us to lower the dimension of commodities to consider and also it enables us to link prices of producible goods to prices of primary factors or factor prices. The surface of a production possibility set is sometimes called either a production possibility frontier or a product transformation curve (or surface).
Empirical analysis of electric vehicle fast charging under cold temperatures

Abstract This paper presents an empirical analysis of the effects of temperature on Direct Current Fast Charger (DCFC) charging rate and discusses the impact of such effects on wider adoptions of electric vehicles (EVs). The authors conducted statistical analysis on the effects of temperature and constructed an electric vehicle charging model that can show the dynamics of DCFC charging process under different temperatures. The results indicate that DCFC charging rate can deteriorate considerably in cold temperatures. These findings may be used as a reference to identify and assess the regions that may suffer from slow charging. The problems associated with temperature effects on DCFC charging deserve greater attention as electrification of motor vehicles progresses and DCFC usage increases in the future.
Survival analysis of early-stage breast cancer patients undergoing axillary lymph node dissection and sentinel lymph node dissection.

Abstract Background The American College of Surgeons Oncology Group (ACOSOG) Z0011 trial demonstrated equivalent survival in early-stage breast cancer (BC) patients receiving either axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) or sentinel lymph node dissection (SLND) alone. However, institutional studies have called into question the generalization of these findings outside of a clinical trial. Methods Early-stage BC patients diagnosed in 2013, that received lumpectomy with whole-breast irradiation, and underwent either ALND or SLND alone, in National Cancer Database were included. Weighted Kaplan-Meier curves were used to estimate 45-month survival, accounting for demographics, comorbidities, insurance type, cancer and neighborhood characteristics. Results 62,184 patients were included, of which 21,892 (35%) underwent ALND. Patients undergoing ALND, compared to SLND, appeared to have slightly lower survival (91.4% vs 95.1%); moreover, even after weighting, a small difference persisted (92.7% vs 94.7%, RR 0.98, 95% CI 0.97, 0.99). Conclusions SLND is a safe and effective alternative to ALND in BC patients with limited nodal involvement. This study provides additional evidence that the findings of ACOSOG Z0011 are applicable to the larger early-stage BC population.
Mechanism and Catalytic Potential of a Cytochrome P450 (OleT) that Catalyzes C-C Bond Scission

OleT (CYP152L1) is a recently discovered cytochrome P450 that is structurally similar to peroxide dependent P450s that catalyze fatty acid hydroxylations. OleT has been shown to catalyze the cleava...
Adjusted versus actual body weight dosing of 4-factor prothrombin complex concentrate in obese patients with warfarin-associated major bleeding

The package insert of 4-factor prothrombin complex concentrate (4F-PCC) contains specific dosing recommendations stating to determine the patients dose based on their INR and weight, capping the weight at 100 kg. However, the mean body mass index (BMI) in the 4F-PCC U.S. approval study was 27 kg/m2, and there is a lack of literature identifying the ideal dosing strategy in obesity. We conducted a retrospective analysis of obese patients (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2) who received 4F-PCC for warfarin associated emergent bleeding reversal. Treatment groups were those that received 4F-PCC on adjusted body weight (AdjBW) and those on actual body weight (ActBW). The primary outcome was the percent of patients achieving coagulopathy reversal, defined as a post-treatment INR < 1.4 for neurologic indications and < 1.5 for all others. A total of 78 obese patients were included (28 AdjBW and 50 ActBW). Baseline INR (3.1 vs. 2.8; p = 0.052) and BMI (33.6 vs. 33.6 kg/m2) were similar between groups. Achievement of goal INR was significantly lower in the AdjBW group (36% vs. 68%; p = 0.006). A majority of patients had intracranial hemorrhage (32% vs. 54%; p = 0.06), and the median dose of 4F-PCC was lower in the AdjBW group (2120 vs. 2500 units; p = 0.02). Dosing 4F-PCC using adjusted body weight in obese patients resulted in a significantly lower rate of coagulopathy reversal. ActBW should be used to dose 4F-PCC in obese patients when the 100 kg dose cap is utilized per the package insert recommendations.
SUBSTANCE ABUSE AND RISK OF HOSPITALIZATION FOR HEART FAILURE

Substance abuse has increased in recent years. The burden of substance abuse among patients with heart failure (HF) is poorly characterized. In this period prevalence study, we identified substance abuse via diagnosis code or urine drug screen among patients with HF treated at the University of
Bucle multidisciplinar para la sustentabilidad urbana

El crecimiento acelerado de la poblacion urbana genera problemas ambientales, economicos y sociales en los que se reconocen los inputs que requieren los procesos urbanos para su normal funcionamiento (energia, materiales y agua) en aspectos industriales, economicos y humanos. Asimismo, se identifican los outputs generados en la produccion de bienes o servicios, los cuales originan una serie de externalidades no deseadas. La metodologia conto con un trabajo interdisciplinar organizado en cuatro momentos: planeacion, revision bibliografica, interpretacion de los resultados y formulacion. Como resultado se presentan ocho conceptos que fortalecen la sustentabilidad urbana: ciclo cerrado, metabolismo urbano, economia circular, ecologia industrial, red de valor, logistica inversa, psicologia ambiental y ecodiseno, a partir de los cuales se genero la propuesta de un modelo multifactorial para el fortalecimiento de la sustentabilidad' urbana. Se concluye que para alcanzar la sustentabilidad urbana urge crear vasos comunicantes entre las disciplinas que inciden de manera directa en las dinamicas que dan vida a las ciudades contemporaneas.
Microbiome-Based Biomarkers for IBD.

Crohn disease and ulcerative colitis are complex immune-mediated diseases that are characterized by a heterogeneity in presentation and clinical course. Although various clinical covariates predict adverse outcomes in these patients, they are insufficiently informative. The gut microbiome likely plays a central role in the pathogenesis of these diseases. Consequently, microbiome-based biomarkers may play an important role in risk stratification and disease prediction. Initial cross-sectional studies showed a reduced gut microbial diversity in patients with Crohn disease or ulcerative colitis, a depletion of phyla with anti-inflammatory effects such as those belonging to Firmicutes, and an increased abundance of potentially pathogenic bacteria in specific disease phenotypes. Subsequent studies longitudinally tracking microbial changes and clinical outcomes have shown dynamic changes correlating with or predictive of disease activity and resistance to therapy. The development of multicenter cohorts using harmonized protocols is essential to robustly validate these biomarkers and facilitate the integration of their evaluation into clinical practice. .
Diet, Stress and Mental Health.

Introduction: There has long been an interest in the effects of diet on mental health, and the interaction of the two with stress; however, the nature of these relationships is not well understood. Although associations between diet, obesity and the related metabolic syndrome (MetS), stress, and mental disorders exist, causal pathways have not been established. Methods: We reviewed the literature on the relationship between diet, stress, obesity and psychiatric disorders related to stress. Results: Diet and obesity can affect mood through direct effects, or stress-related mental disorders could lead to changes in diet habits that affect weight. Alternatively, common factors such as stress or predisposition could lead to both obesity and stress-related mental disorders, such as depression and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Specific aspects of diet can lead to acute changes in mood as well as stimulate inflammation, which has led to efforts to assess polyunsaturated fats (PUFA) as a treatment for depression. Bidirectional relationships between these different factors are also likely. Finally, there has been increased attention recently on the relationship between the gut and the brain, with the realization that the gut microbiome has an influence on brain function and probably also mood and behavior, introducing another way diet can influence mental health and disorders. Brain areas and neurotransmitters and neuropeptides that are involved in both mood and appetite likely play a role in mediating this relationship. Conclusions: Understanding the relationship between diet, stress and mood and behavior could have important implications for the treatment of both stress-related mental disorders and obesity.
Low-Rank Hankel Matrix Completion for Robust Time-Frequency Analysis

In this paper, we develop a novel method to enable robust sparsity-based time-frequency representation of multi-component frequency modulated signals in the presence of burst missing samples, where the amplitudes of the different signal components are generally different. Unlike existing methods which require cross-term presence to be sparse in the time-frequency domain, the proposed method permits effective time-frequency representation reconstruction even when undesired cross-terms take a high occupancy. A key enabling procedure is the high-fidelity missing entry recovery of the instantaneous autocorrelation function that is insensitive to cross-terms. By designing instantaneous autocorrelation function patches such that their Doppler-frequency domain representation is sparse, we formulate the instantaneous autocorrelation function recovery problem as a patch-based low-rank block Hankel matrix completion problem. This approach effectively suppresses the effects of burst missing data samples and is robust to the amplitude differences. A data-adaptive time-frequency kernel is then applied to further mitigate the undesired cross-terms and the residual artifacts due to the burst missing samples. We prove the superiority of the proposed method over the state of the art for both multi-component linear and nonlinear frequency modulated signals. Simulation results confirm that the proposed method outperforms the state of the art for different types of frequency modulated signals with varying signal-to-noise ratios and missing sample rates.
Accurate MP2-based force fields predict hydration free energies for simple alkanes and alcohols in good agreement with experiments.

Force fields for four small molecules, methane, ethane, methanol, and ethanol, were created by force matching MP2 gradients computed with triple-zeta-quality basis sets using the Adaptive Force Matching method. Without fitting to any experimental properties, the force fields created were able to predict hydration free energies, enthalpies of hydration, and diffusion constants in excellent agreements with experiments. The root mean square error for the predicted hydration free energies is within 1 kJ/mol of experimental measurements of Ben-Naim et al. [J. Chem. Phys. 81(4), 2016–2027 (1984)]. The good prediction of hydration free energies is particularly noteworthy, as it is an important fundamental property. Similar hydration free energies of ethane relative to methane and of ethanol relative to methanol are attributed to a near cancellation of cavitation penalty and favorable contributions from dispersion and Coulombic interactions as a result of the additional methyl group.
Takeovers, market monitoring, and international corporate governance

We theoretically and empirically examine the role of international takeover markets in curtailing dominant shareholder moral hazard for firms with higher value-added from acquisitions. In equilibrium, such firms strategically list shares in the markets of their targets and voluntarily dilute dominant shareholder control through capital-raising events to lower their expected acquisition costs. Empirical tests, using a sample of foreign firms cross-listing on U.S. stock exchanges during 1990–2003, support the framework. We find a strong influence of post-listing dilution of dominant shareholder control through capital-raising events on the likelihood of acquisitions and their cost to the acquirers, in both U.S. and non-U.S. markets.
Assessing the Role of a Children’s Collection in an Academic Library: A Case Study of Collaborative Collection Management

The Sonoma State University Library’s children's book collection is under-utilized by students in the School of Education, the primary intended audience, which prompted the Library to assess the ro...
Guidance on evaluating parametric model uncertainty at decision-relevant scales

Abstract. Spatially distributed hydrologic models are commonly employed to optimize the locations of engineering control measures across a watershed. Yet, parameter screening exercises that aim to reduce the dimensionality of the calibration search space are typically completed only for gauged locations, like the watershed outlet, and use screening metrics that are relevant to calibration instead of explicitly describing decision objectives. Identifying parameters that control physical processes in ungauged locations that affect decision objectives should lead to a better understanding of control measure effectiveness. This paper provides guidance on evaluating model parameter uncertainty at the spatial scales and flow magnitudes of interest for such decision-making problems. We use global sensitivity analysis to screen parameters for model calibration, and to subsequently evaluate the appropriateness of using parameter multipliers to further reduce dimensionality. We evaluate six sensitivity metrics that align with four decision objectives; two metrics consider model residual error that would be considered in spatial optimizations of engineering designs. We compare the resulting parameter selection for the basin outlet and each hillslope. We also compare basin outlet results to those obtained by four calibration-relevant metrics. These methods were applied to a RHESSys ecohydrological model of an exurban forested watershed near Baltimore, MD, USA. Results show that 1) the set of parameters selected by calibration-relevant metrics does not include parameters that control decision-relevant high and low streamflows, 2) evaluating sensitivity metrics at only the basin outlet does not capture many parameters that control streamflows in hillslopes, and 3) for some parameter multipliers, calibration of just one of the parameters being adjusted may be the preferred approach for reducing dimensionality. Thus, we recommend that parameter screening exercises use decision-relevant metrics that are evaluated at the spatial scales appropriate to decision making. While including more parameters in calibration will exacerbate equifinality, the resulting parametric uncertainty should be important to consider in discovering control measures that are robust to it.
Fake news, technology and ethics: Can AI and blockchains restore integrity?:

This teaching case explores the advantages and disadvantages of battling fake news with advanced information technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchains. Students will explor...
Sex and alcohol use disorder predict the presence of cancer, respiratory, and other medical conditions: Findings from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions-III

Abstract Background: Women experience greater health consequences of alcohol compared to their male counterparts. In recent years, rates of drinking and heavy alcohol use have increased in women while remaining relatively steady in men. Thus, our aim was to newly examine associations between sex, AUD, and the presence of medical conditions in a large nationally representative, cross-sectional dataset. Methods: Using data from the U.S. National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC-III; n = 36,309), we evaluated relationships among sex and DSM-5 AUD, and their association with past year clinician-confirmed medical conditions. Results: Women were 1.5 to 2 times more likely to be diagnosed with a past year cancer, pain, respiratory, or other significant medical condition compared to men (odds ratio [OR] = 1.331–2.027). Individuals with an ongoing DSM-5 AUD were nearly 1.5 to 2 times more likely to report a confirmed past year liver, cardiovascular, cancer, or other significant medical condition compared to those without an AUD (OR = 1.437–2.073). Interactive effects demonstrated that women with an ongoing AUD were 2 to 3 times more likely to report a past year doctor- or health professional-confirmed medical condition compared to men; specifically, respiratory conditions and cancers (OR = 1.767–2.713). Conclusions: Results identify that AUD is a critical factor associated with disease that spans organ systems. Associations between AUD and respiratory conditions or cancers are particularly robust in women. Effective interventions for a broad spectrum of medical conditions should consider the role of problematic alcohol use, especially given that rates of drinking in women are increasing.
A Water Quality Investigation of Kimages Creek

A WATER QUALITY INVESTIGATION OF KIMAGES CREEK By Michael Parker Trop, M.S. A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science at Virginia Commonwealth University. Virginia Commonwealth University, 2012 Director: Dr. Paul Bukaveckas, Associate Professor, Department of Biology and Center for Environmental Studies Analysis of continuous monitoring water quality data (temperature, specific conductivity, depth, pH, dissolved oxygen, and turbidity) at two locations in a tidal freshwater creek (Kimages Creek) characterized seasonal variation and responses to short-term events. Supplemental water quality measurements were collected to describe longitudinal variations in the creek. There were significant differences in water quality between the two continuous monitoring stations (one tidal and unforested, the other non-tidal and forested) over varying time scales. Rain events showed increases in turbidity, depth and dissolved oxygen, and reductions in temperature, conductivity, and pH at both stations. Tides influenced the water quality at the downstream monitoring station, but there were also influences at the upstream site despite the presence of beaver impoundments. At the downstream station, changes in conductivity and pH were linked to the tidal cycle while temperature and dissolved oxygen were linked to a diel cycle but also responded to tidal influence.
Bowen's disease of the mucous membrane of the mouth; a review of the literature and a presentation of six cases.

Abstract Eleven cases of Bowen's disease of the oral mucous membrane already recorded in the literature are reviewed and six new cases are presented. Of these six cases, three are Bowen's disease and 3 bowenoid changes in squamous-cell epitheliomas. The ages of the patients in this series of six ranged from 40 to 71 years, the average age at onset being 57 years. Four of the patients are men. Of the six cases, two involve the floor of the mouth, two the buccal mucosa, one the tongue, and one the tonsillar pillar.
Rutherford backscattering studies of polypyrrole films. II: Effect of ionic size on mobility

Ionic diffusion in polypyrrole films has been studied with ex situ Rutherford backscattering spectrometry. Polypyrrole films were deposited from aqueous electrolytes containing one of the following salts: sodium perchlorate, sodium xylene-sulfonate, or poly(sodium 4-styrene-sulfonate). The ionic content of the films was determined as a function of potential (steady-state results) and as a function of the charge passed during a potentiostatic oxidation or reduction. Results were also obtained for films which were ion exchanged by potential cycling in alkali halide electrolytes. Diffusion coefficients on the order of 10 -10 cm 2 /s were obtained for the ClO 4 - , Na + , and Cs + ions. The relative mobilities of the ions are in agreement with their size, assuming the alkali metal cations retain their hydration sheaths within the polymer matrix. Thus perchlorate was found to have the highest diffusion coefficient, while the poly(styrene-sulfonate) anion was found to be the least mobile
Basic properties of functions on ℝ1

The proofs of many theorems of calculus require a knowledge of the basic properties of continuous functions. In this section we establish the Intermediate-value theorem, an essential tool used in the proofs of the Fundamental theorem of calculus and of the Theorem of the mean.
Antagonism of methionine in aminosalicylate-inhibition of Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Studies on the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in a semisynthetic medium have indicated that this microorganism has no essential requirement for any of the amino acids although growth of most strains is stimulated by glutamic acid (Middlebrook et al., 1954). However, when M. tuberculosis is inhibited by p-aminosalicylic acid (PAS) an exogenous source of methionine is required for restoration of growth since synthesis of this amino acid appears to be blocked by the inhibitor (Hedgecock, 1956). In the present investigation a study has been made of the ability of structurally related amino acids to antagonize methionine under conditions of PASinhibition wherein M. tuberculosis was dependent upon an exogenous source of methionine for growth.
Phase I Clinical Trial and Pharmacokinetics of Intravesical Mitomycin C in Dogs with Localized Transitional Cell Carcinoma of the Urinary Bladder

Background: Transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) is the most common cancer of the urinary tract in dogs. The most frequent cause of death is urinary obstruction from the primary tumor. Standard medical therapy for TCC is only partially effective. Hypothesis/Objectives: Intravesical administration of mitomycin C (MMC) in dogs with invasive TCC will result in antitumor activity against the primary tumor and minimal systemic drug absorption. Animals: Thirteen privately owned dogs with naturally occurring, histopathologically diagnosed TCC of the urinary bladder. Methods: A prospective phase I trial was performed. MMC was given intravesically (600 μg/mL initial concentration) for 1 h/d for 2 consecutive days each month. The MMC concentration was escalated to a maximum of 800 μg/mL in groups of 3 dogs until the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) was determined. Serum assays for MMC were performed to determine the extent of systemic absorption of the MMC. Results: The MTD of MMC based on local toxicoses was 700 μg/mL (1-h dwell time, 2 consecutive days). In addition, 2 dogs had severe myelosuppression and appeared to have systemic absorption of MMC. Five dogs had partial remission, and 7 dogs had stable disease. Conclusions: Intravesical MMC has antitumor activity in dogs with invasive TCC. Further study is needed to determine the cause of the myelosuppression associated with MMC administration, and to develop strategies to minimize this risk.
Modes of Defining Atherosclerosis in Mouse Models: Relative Merits and Evolving Standards

Mouse models have become the most common model for defining mechanisms of atherosclerotic disease. Many genetic manipulations have enabled the development of atherosclerosis in mice due to either endogenous or diet-induced hypercholesterolemia. This availability of lesion-susceptible mice has facilitated many studies using pharmacological and genetic approaches. Unfortunately, this expansive literature on mouse atherosclerosis has generated many contradictions on the role of specific pathways. A contributor to these inconsistencies may be the multiple modes in which atherosclerosis is evaluated. Also, for each specific technique, there are no consistent standards applied to the measurements. This chapter will discuss the imaging, biochemical, and compositional modes of evaluating atherosclerosis with suggestions for standard execution of these techniques.
THOUGHT EXPERIMENTS AND PHILOSOPHICAL KNOWLEDGE

: While thought experiments play an important role in contemporary analytic philosophy, much remains unclear about thought experiments. In particular, it is still unclear whether the judgments elicited by thought experiments can provide evidence for the premises of philosophical arguments. This article argues that, if an influential and promising view about the nature of the judgments elicited by thought experiments is correct, then many thought experiments in philosophy fail to provide any evidence for the premises of philosophical arguments.
Learning Mathematics and Learning to Teach: Learning Cycles in Mathematics Teacher Education.

The reconceptualization of mathematics teacher education based on current mathematics education reform efforts necessitates the elaboration of theoretical frameworks to guide both the practice of and research on teacher education. The author presents a framework which has been useful in shaping two major mathematics teacher education research and development projects. This framework for mathematics teacher learning builds recursively on a framework for mathematics learning which derives from a social constructivist view of learning and incorporates aspects of French didactical theory using the organizing structure of the Karplus Learning Cycle. The framework can be used to think about the content and organization of a particular lesson or of an entire course or program for teachers. Further, it describes the interconnection between different domains of teacher knowledge.
Airway epithelial NF‐κB activation promotes the ability to overcome inhalational antigen tolerance

Background Inhalational antigen tolerance typically protects against the development of allergic airway disease but may be overcome to induce allergic sensitization preceding the development of asthma. Objectives We examined in vivo whether pre-existing inhalational antigen tolerance could be overcome by activation of the transcription factor NF-κB in conducting airway epithelial cells, and used a combination of in vivo and in vitro approaches to examine the mechanisms involved. Methods Wild-type and transgenic mice capable of expressing constitutively active IκB kinase β (CAIKKβ) in airway epithelium were tolerized to inhaled ovalbumin. Twenty-eight days later, the transgene was transiently expressed and mice were exposed to inhaled OVA on Day 30 in an attempt to overcome inhalational tolerance. Results Following ovalbumin challenge on days 40-42, CAIKKβ mice in which the transgene had been activated exhibited characteristic features of allergic airway disease, including airway eosinophilia and methacholine hyper-responsiveness. Increases in the CD103(+) and CD11b(HI) lung dendritic cell populations were present in CAIKKβ mice on Day 31. Bronchoalveolar lavage from mice expressing CAIKKβ mice induced CD4(+) T cells to secrete T(H)2 and T(H)17 cytokines, an effect that required IL-4 and IL-1 signalling, respectively. CAIKKβ mice on Dox demonstrated increased numbers of innate lymphoid type 2 cells (ILC2) in the lung, which also exhibited elevated mRNA expression of the T(H)2-polarizing cytokine IL-4. Finally, airway epithelial NF-kB activation induced allergic sensitization in CAIKKβ mice on Dox that required IL-4 and IL-1 signalling in vivo. Conclusions Our studies demonstrate that soluble mediators generated in response to airway epithelial NF-κB activation orchestrate the breaking of inhalational tolerance and allergic antigen sensitization through the effects of soluble mediators, including IL-1 and IL-4, on pulmonary dendritic cells as well as innate lymphoid and CD4(+) T cells.
Distinguishing intrinsic from extrinsic factors underlying firing rate saturation in human motor units.

During voluntary contraction, firing rates of individual motor units (MUs) increase modestly over a narrow force range beyond which little additional increase in firing rate is seen. Such saturatio...
Evaluating Evidence for the Role of Sleep in Fibromyalgia: A Test of the Sleep and Pain Diathesis Model

The Sleep and Pain Diathesis (SAPD) Model predicts that sleep quality is related to Fibromylagia (FM) outcomes such as disability and depression and that these relationships are mediated by both pain and impaired emotional dysregulation. The purpose of this paper is to provide a preliminary test of this model using cross-sectional data. 35 adult women, who had been living with FM for an average of 13 years, completed a battery of questionnaires that included reports of pain, sleep, affect, and disability. Consistent with this model, FM patients who reported more disrupted sleep also reported higher levels of psychological disability (i.e., BDI depression symptoms) and physical disability. Moreover, the trajectory of the relationship between sleep and pain appears to be mediated by cognitive processes such as increased pain helplessness and, thus, the relationship between sleep and disability appears to be mediated via pain. These data are consistent with the SAPD model, and lend support for the need to include sleep related factors as a critical contributor to our understanding of FM.
Subsurface microscopy of integrated circuits with angular spectrum and polarization control

We investigate the effect of an annular pupil-plane aperture in confocal imaging while using an NA increasing lens. We show that focal spot shape is highly sensitive to both polarization and angular spectrum of the incoming light. We demonstrate a lateral spatial resolution of 145 nm (λ0/9) in the direction perpendicular to the polarization direction.
Treatment decisions based on egg scouting for tomato fruitworm, Helicoverpa zea (Boddie), reduce insecticide use in tomato

Field experiments were conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of a tomato fruitworm, Helicoverpa zea (Boddie), management program where insecticide application was made only when fruitworm eggs were detected on tomato foliage. Fruit damage and number of insecticide applications were compared between the egg scouting program and a standard fruitworm management program where insecticides were applied on a weekly schedule. On average, 59 and 43% fewer insecticide applications (for esfenvalerate and Bacillus thuringiensis, respectively) were required in the egg scouting program, compared with the weekly spray program, without any reduction in marketable yield. The average seasonal insecticide cost savings associated with the use of the egg scouting program were $US109.33 and $US93.33 per ha for esfenvalerate and B. thuringiensis, respectively. When scouting was used, average net returns, considering machinery and labor costs, were $US146.45 and $US164.33 per ha higher for esfenvalerate and B. thuringiensis, respectively.
Attitudes towards acceptance of risk to buildings from extreme winds

Economic losses from natural disasters due to extreme wind hazards, such as hurricanes or tornadoes, have been significant in recent years, and recent amendments to building design standards have been aimed at mitigating the risk from catastrophic wind storms. Public and professional attitudes regarding building performance and willingness to accept risk from wind hazards are reflected in these amended standards. In general, attitudes of decision-makers towards risk can be categorised as risk-accepting, risk-neutral and risk-averse. Recent studies of risk attitudes have suggested that individuals or small group decision-makers tend to be risk-averse when confronting low-probability, high-consequence hazards. In this paper, risk-acceptance attitudes towards extreme wind hazards are explored utilising cumulative prospect theory to establish a context for how this hazard is viewed in comparison to other hazards affecting buildings. Two case studies are considered, the first involving low-rise residential bui...
Casein kinases I and II from squid brain exhibit selective neurofilament phosphorylation

In studies of the function of neurofilaments in the squid giant axon we showed that isolated neurofilament preparations from axoplasm are associated with high levels of casein kinase-like activity. To determine the role of these kinases in phosphorylation of neurofilament proteins, we isolated two kinases from squid brain which are also found in axoplasm, CK I and CK II. The CKI is similar to this axonal neurofilament-associated CKI-like kinase activity. CK I displayed a high specificity for the squid high molecular weight (NF220) and rat high molecular weight (NF-H) neurofilament proteins relative to alpha-casein, phosvitin, and middle (NF-M) and low (NF-L) rat neurofilament proteins. The brain CKII, with activity similar to that found in axoplasm, but not associated with neurofilaments, poorly phosphorylated NF220 and NF-H, while demonstrating similar affinities, relative to CK I, for NF-M, NF-L, alpha-casein, and phosvitin. The high affinity of squid neuronal CKI for squid NF220 and rat NF-H and its association with axonal neurofilaments suggest that this kinase may have a specific role in neurofilament phosphorylation essential for interaction with other cytoskeletal elements in the axon.
PROX1 gene variant is associated with fasting glucose change after antihypertensive treatment

Study Objective To assess the relationship of the 33 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) previously associated with fasting glucose in Caucasians in genome-wide association studies (GWAS) with glucose response to antihypertensive drugs shown to increase risk for hyperglycemia and diabetes.
Novel rapidity dependence of directed flow in high-energy heavy ion collisions

For high-energy nucleus-nucleus collisions, we show that a combination of space-momentum correlations characteristic of radial expansion, together with the correlation between the position of a nucleon in the nucleus and its stopping, results in a very specific rapidity dependence of directed flow: a reversal of sign in the midrapidity region. We support our argument by RQMD model calculations for $\mathrm{Au}+\mathrm{Au}$ collisions at $\sqrt{s}\phantom{\rule{0ex}{0ex}}=\phantom{\rule{0ex}{0ex}}200A\mathrm{GeV}$.
Reexamining the affective advantage of peer feedback in the ESL writing class

Abstract Various arguments have been made on affective grounds to justify peer feedback in teaching composition in English as a first language (L1). Those arguments have had considerable influence on the teaching of English as a second language (ESL) writing. Based upon current assumptions about the affective values of teacher-, peer-, and self-directed feedback, hypotheses were formulated concerning the relative appeal of the three types of feedback in the ESL writing process. Eighty-one academically oriented ESL learners who had experienced the three types of feedback responded to a questionnaire, and their preferences were statistically analyzed. The results show that claims made about the affective advantage of peer feedback in L1 writing do not apply to ESL writing. ESL students overwhelmingly prefer teacher feedback. The findings are discussed in conjunction with the larger issue of the appropriateness of L1 writing theories as guidelines for ESL writing research and instruction.
And The World Came To See: New Manufacturing System Designs and Industrial Revolutions

AND THE WORLD CAME TO SEE. When a new manufacturing system design (MSD) is developed by a company or a group of companies, the rest of the world comes to those factories to learn about the new system. In the last 200 years, three new factory designs have evolved, called the job shop, the flow shop and the lean shop. Each is based on a new system design — a functional design, a product flow design and a linked cell design. New factory designs lead to new industrial leaders and even new industrial revolutions (IR’s). Two appendixes are included: One outlines the implementation strategy for the lean shop and the other is a discussion of lean manufacturing from the viewpoint of K. Hitomi, Japanese professor of manufacturing systems engineering.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
Earth radiation model for infrared horizon sensor applications

Abstract The concept of equivalent atmospheric path length as viewed from an orbiting satellite is developed from a basic consideration of the slant path line of sight to the region near the horizon. The concept is shown to be pertinent to the selection of a suitable infrared wavelength band for horizon detection as applied to attitude control of an orbiting satellite. A method of determining the radiation envelope as a function of line of sight angle, θ, and spectral wavelength band is described. Some conclusions are drawn that indicate the radiance levels to be expected and the wavelength bands that should yield the most discrete earth-sky interface to be sensed.
Directions of research on electric power quality

Several important research areas in electric power quality are described. Aspects of electric power quality are categorized as fundamental concepts, modeling and analysis, measurement and instrumentation, sources, solutions, effects, and educational issues. The goals are to identify the high-priority research areas in electric power quality and to stimulate interest in this topic. >
A causal model of the adoption of home heating energy conservation measures

Abstract A causal model of energy conservation behavior, incorporating both psychological and household variables, is developed and tested. A longitudinal survey of owner-occupied, single-family residential units in Decatur, Illinois, serves as the basis for empirical analysis. Results indicate that psychological variables are better predictors of conservation behavior than socioeconomic, demographic or dwelling unit variables. The theoretical and practical implications of these findings are discussed.
Effects of exercise on cardiovascular disease risk in women with NIDDM

The effect of a 4-month exercise program on measures of cardiovascular disease (CHD) risk was observed in women (mean age = 59.2 ± 3.9 years) of postmenopausal years with NIDDM, who demonstrated fair to normal control of blood glucose control. The women were randomly assigned to either an exercise (n = 5) or control (n = 5) group. Initially, both groups had a similar body mass index, resting heart rate and blood pressures, blood glucose and hemoglobin A1. After 4 months, the exercise group demonstrated a 32% increase (P < 0.03) in both absolute and relative maximum oxygen uptake (VO2) while the control group remained unchanged. Significant differences were found between the exercisers and non-exercisers for absolute (F(1,8) 4.94, P = 0.057) and relative (F(1,8) 7.67, P = 0.024) maximum VO2 from pretest to posttest. Body weight (kg) and body fat (%) remained unchanged for both groups. Although total cholesterol was found to be reduced by 13% for the exercise group (P < 0.03) and 11% for the controls (P < 0.01), a 15% decrease (P < 0.03) in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) was observed for the control group, only. Hence, a marked difference (P < 0.03) in the risk ratio was observed between the exercise and control groups. These data suggest that physical exercise may play an important role in the maintenance of HDL mass and in the reduction of CHD risk factors in women of postmenopausal years with NIDDM.