cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
V-Type Allosteric Inhibition Is Described by a Shift in the Rate-Determining Step for α-Isopropylmalate Synthase from Mycobacterium tuberculosis

The kinetic parameters affected by allosteric mechanisms contain collections of rate constants that vary based on differences in the relative rates of individual steps in the reaction. Thus, it may not be useful to compare enzymes with similar allosteric mechanisms unless the point of regulation has been identified. Rapid reaction kinetics and kinetic isotope effects provide a detailed description of V-type feedback allosteric inhibition in α-isopropylmalate synthase from Mycobacterium tuberculosis, an evolutionarily conserved model allosteric system. Results are consistent with a shift in the rate-determining step from product release to the hydrolytic step in catalysis in the presence of the effector.
Stand Composition, Tree Proximity and Size Have Minimal Effects on Leaf Function of Coexisting Aspen and Subalpine Fir.

Forest structural heterogeneity due to species composition, spatial relationships and tree size are widely studied patterns in forest systems, but their impacts on tree function are not as well documented. The objective of this study was to examine how stand composition, tree proximity relationships and tree size influence the leaf functional traits of aspen, an early successional species, and subalpine fir, a climax species. We measured foliar nutrients, nonstructural carbohydrates (aspen only), defense chemistry and xylem water potential of aspen and subalpine fir trees in three size classes growing in close proximity or independently from other trees under three stand conditions: aspen dominant, aspen-conifer mixed, and conifer dominant stands. Close proximity of subalpine fir to aspen reduced aspen’s storage of starch in foliar tissue by 17% suggesting that competition between these species may have small effects on carbon metabolism in aspen leaves. Simple sugar (glucose + sucrose) concentrations in aspen leaves were slightly higher in larger aspen trees than smaller trees. However, no differences were found in stem water potential, foliar concentrations of nitrogen, phosphorus, or secondary defense chemicals of aspen or subalpine fir across the gradients of stand composition, tree proximity or tree size. These results suggest that mechanisms of coexistence allow both aspen and subalpine fir to maintain leaf function across a wide range of stand structural characteristics. For aspen, resource sharing through its clonal root system and high resource storage capacity may partially contribute to its functional stability in mixed aspen-conifer stands.
SURVEY OF HEALTH AND DISEASE PREVENTION AWARENESS IN WENCHUAN EARTHQUAKE AREA RURAL RESIDENTS

Objective To investigate awareness of disease prevention in people of Wenchuan earthquake area,in order to facilitate the afterward disease prevention for the masses.Methods Sampling survey in the people of an earthquake-striken area was conducted.Results In a survey of 212 households and 557 individuals,100% of the households and 98.56% of the individuals were aware of the necessity of disease prevention after the earthquake.Specifically,among the 212 surveyed households,the rate of drinking water disinfection was 87.73%,the rate of environmental disinfection and disinsection was 95.75%,and the indoor and outdoor(tent) deratization rate was 79.24%.Of the 557 individuals,93.87% washed their hands before eating and after using the toilet,92.93% drank boiled water;while only 78.30% could eat cooked food.Conclusions The disease prevention awareness in people of Wenchuan earthquake-striken area is relatively high and widespread disease prevention actions have already been taken,so no epidemic occurred up to now.
Using Fluorescence Microscopy to Study Mitosis

Fluorescence microscopy is one of the most important approaches in the cell biologist's toolbox for studying the mitotic spindle. In fact, many of the key insights into our understanding of mitosis have been enabled by the visualization of mitotic processes using fluorescence microscopy. Here, we summarize some of the important considerations for imaging mitosis using fluorescence microscopy. Because light can damage live cells, we emphasize the importance of minimizing cellular damage while obtaining informative images.
Discussion on “Sequential detection/isolation of abrupt changes” by Igor V. Nikiforov

ABSTRACTProfessor Nikiforov gave an excellent introduction to the modern theory and applications of detection/isolation. We discuss possible consequences of the “ultra-minimax” (working against the worst-worst-worst case) approach as well as some extensions and modifications of the problem.
Understanding Risk Management for Intentional Supply Chain Disruptions: Risk Detection, Risk Mitigation, and Risk Recovery

Strategies to mitigate supply chain risk tend to treat disruptive events as homogenous, despite having different causes and requiring different risk management strategies. We develop a framework to understand effective risk management strategies by considering whether a disruption was caused by an intentional or inadvertent act and whether the source of the disruption was endogenous or exogenous to the supply chain. Based on exploring evidence from risk management strategies for specific disruptions, we find that risk detection is important for both intentional and inadvertent disruptions, while effective risk management practices differ in terms of risk mitigation (relational versus process based approaches) and risk recovery (restructuring versus resilience). The resultant theory-based framework provides a new theoretical perspective on supply chain disruptions and posits that understanding intent and the source of the disruption is critical for appropriate risk management strategies.
Advances in high-brightness fiber-coupled laser modules for pumping multi-kW CW fiber lasers

High-power continuous wave (CW) fiber lasers with excellent beam quality continue to drive demand for higher brightness pump modules at 920 nm and 976 nm. Over the last decade, the brightness requirement for pumping state-of-the-art CW fiber lasers (CWFLs) has risen from approximately 0.5 W/(mm-mR)2 to ~2 W/(mm-mR)2 for today’s mutlikW CWFLs. The most advanced CWFLs demand even higher brightness pump modules in order to minimize design complexity, maximize efficiency, and maximize the stimulated Raman scattering threshold. This need has resulted in a reoptimization of the nLIGHT elementTM line to enable a commercial 200 W, 18-emitter package with a 0.15 NA beam in a 105 μm fiber, corresponding to a brightness of 3.2 W/(mm-mR)2 and a 25 % increase in power over the existing elementTM e14 at 155 W. Furthermore, we have demonstrated the further scalability of this reoptimized design with our next generation COS, resulting in a maximum of 272 W into 105 μm fiber with a brightness of 3.8 W/(mm-mR)2.
Poetry as a Worldly Vocation: Home and Homelessness in Rilke’s Das Stunden-Buch

Holderlin put the question boldly: “Full of acquirements ... [yet] poetically, man dwells on this earth.”2 And I say “question” advisedly, for it is far from clear what it means to “dwell on this earth“, let alone to do so “poetically”.3 It is easy to fall back — let us not consider the motivations — and try to lead our lives by interpreting this dwelling, to express it in Solovyev’s words, as a call or “invitation to become finally naturalized in earthly exile, to enter without delay into full and hereditary possession of our minute portion, with all its thistles and briars”.4 It is as if we somehow had an inkling of some other dimension, a sort of “lost paradise”, or as though we kept from love past a taste of an “ ‘other-world’ mystical basis”5 and the “tidings of the possibility of [its] recovery”,6 and yet succeeded in forgetting all that, by transforming ourselves into citizens of this world and devoting our lives to the management of its affairs.7 This is certainly resignation, but to give it its due, on the problematic assumption that it is our fundamental modality of dwelling on earth, it would be necessary for us not only to clarify the notions of “vale of tears” and “paradise” so nicely intertangled therein, but also never to lose sight of the struggle and tension between them — which is experienced already in their manner of immediate givenness, namely, in our becoming “naturalized ... in our minute portion” — for this means to be confronted, time and again, with something that always exceeds itself and keeps us alive in discontent (and thus open to the imminence of possible upsurge).
Teacher as a Scholar: Nel Noddings

Teacher as a Scholar: Nel Noddings, as a woman who values the precision and the power of words asserts that the “potential” of Dewey in our schools is “extraordinary.”
Robotic gastric bypass may lead to fewer complications compared with laparoscopy

Robotic technology leads to improved visualization and precision over laparoscopy but also higher cost of care. The benefits of this technology to patient outcomes are controversial. Our objective was to assess whether the application of robotic surgery to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) would lead to improved patient outcomes. A prospectively collected database at a bariatric center of excellence was reviewed for all RYGB procedures performed by one surgeon between 2007 and 2015. Procedures performed laparoscopically (transoral circular stapling technique) versus robotically (hand-sewn anastomosis) were compared; the transition in technique occurred in 2011. Patient demographics, baseline weight, BMI, operation duration, estimated blood loss (EBL), length of hospital stay (LOS), morbidity and mortality, and percent excess weight loss (%EWL) at 1-year follow-up were compared between groups. Morbidity up to 1-year postop was assessed using the Clavien–Dindo classification. Of 246 patients, 125 underwent robotic and 121 laparoscopic RYGB. Patients in the robotic group were older and heavier but achieved similar %EWL to the laparoscopic group. The operative duration was longer but the mean patient LOS was shorter with the robotic approach. There were no leaks and no mortality. Based on the Clavien–Dindo classification, fewer overall and fewer severe complications occurred in the robotic compared with the laparoscopic approach. In our experience, the use of robotic technology for the creation of gastric bypass led to longer operative times, similar %EWL but decreased LOS and number and severity of complications compared with the laparoscopic approach. Since our findings may have been influenced by the type of anastomotic technique used with each approach they need confirmation by a controlled trial.
Physical properties of nanometer graphene oxide films partially and fully reduced by annealing in ultra-high vacuum

The properties of reduced graphene oxide (GO) are reported from a non-chemical reduction method. Ultra-high vacuum annealing of GO films in the thickness of 1–80 nm was studied by XPS, AFM, UV-Vis-NIR, Raman, and TEM to observe the controlled removal of oxygen. We observed the loss of hydroxyl (C-OH) at low temperatures (<600 °C) followed by the complete loss of carbonyls (C = O) and epoxy (C-O-C) species by 1200 °C. As oxygen was removed, we observed a decrease in the layer spacing between the GO sheets and a concurrent decrease in the film resistance. While the Raman spectroscopy showed no change with reduction, indicating no change in the overall defect density or the general structure of the GO, the transmission spectra showed a shift in the transmission minimum from 245 nm to 260 nm, and a total decrease in transmission above 800 nm occurs as the films visibly darken. TEM indicated that there is turbostratic stacking of the graphene layers as the reduction occurs, leading us to conclude that at a certain threshold of reduction the film properties are similar to epitaxial graphene growth on the C-face of SiC, but that a reduction gone too far results in a layer spacing equivalent to graphite.
Platelet-Rich Plasma for Primary Treatment of Partial Ulnar Collateral Ligament Tears: MRI Correlation With Results.

Background:Jobe revolutionized the treatment of medial ulnar collateral ligament (MUCL) tears with his reconstruction technique. However, not all MUCL injuries require operative management; Rettig ...
Bad cops and true detectives: The horror of police and the unthinkable world:

The first season of the HBO series True Detective has drawn attention to Eugene Thacker’s horror of philosophy trilogy and his tripartite mode of thinking of the world and the subject’s relation to...
Mitogenomics supports an unexpected taxonomic relationship for the extinct diving duck Chendytes lawi and definitively places the extinct Labrador Duck.

Chendytes lawi, an extinct flightless diving anseriform from coastal California, was traditionally classified as a sea duck, tribe Mergini, based on similarities in osteological characters. We recover and analyze mitochondrial genomes of C. lawi and five additional Mergini species, including the extinct Labrador Duck, Camptorhyncus labradorius. Despite its diving morphology, C. lawi is reconstructed as an ancient relictual lineage basal to the dabbling ducks (tribe Anatini), revealing an additional example of convergent evolution of characters related to feeding behavior among ducks. The Labrador Duck is sister to Steller’s Eider which may provide insights into the evolution and ecology of this poorly known extinct species. Our results demonstrate that inclusion of full length mitogenomes, from taxonomically distributed ancient and modern sources can improve phylogeny reconstruction of groups previously assessed with shorter single-gene mitochondrial sequences.
Decreased survival in hepatitis C patients with monomorphic post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder after liver transplantation treated with frontline immunochemotherapy.

AbstractPost-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) develops in 1–3% of liver transplant recipients and no consensus exists about therapeutic management. From 2006 to 2016, 1489 liver transplants were performed at our institution with 20 patients (incidence 1.3%) developing PTLD. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) was the leading cause (n = 10) of liver transplant in PTLD patients. Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma was the most frequent histologic subtype (n = 17), and we report our experience in the management of these patients. Patients were treated with frontline immunochemotherapy without immunosuppression reduction. All evaluable patients achieved a complete remission. Statistically significant decreased survival was identified in HCV-positive patients. Six patients (60%) exhibited increases in HCV RNA levels during therapy. Four patients (40%) developed graft failure and three of them (30%) died from liver dysfunction. This is the first study providing evidence of decreased survival in HCV-positive PTLD pa...
Optimized Solutions for Defect Characterization in 2-D Inverse Eddy Current Testing Problems Using Subregion Finite Element Method

A computational technique is presented in this paper which improves finite element method (FEM) in solving inverse problems. Subregion method is used to select and isolate the area of interest where design parameters for defect shape are updated. An elastic mesh generator is developed in this paper to generate optimal meshes in the selected area to save connectivity matrix until having the most accurate design parameters. Using subregion FEM in solving inverse problems will help in minimizing processing time and memory usage in addition of reducing solution complexity. A 2-D eddy current testing (ECT) problem of detecting and characterizing the location and shape of a defect by separating the defect from entire domain is used to validate the presented subregion FEM algorithm. The elastic mesh generator is investigated to update the preselected design parameters of the defect in each iteration. This meshing technique adds the specialty of using subregion method in inverse problems where elements and nodes numberings are saved inside and outside the defect region. Both the genetic algorithm and simulated annealing optimization techniques are developed to get the accurate defect parameters. The presented subregion FEM results have been verified computationally using conventional FEM. Excellent results of signals agreement and processing time minimization with a factor of 90% with an accuracy of 98% have been achieved. In addition, the presented subregion FEM algorithm has been verified experimentally using aluminum (T6061-T6) and mild steel plate (0.15%–0.30% carbon and Fe) samples. This experiment is carried using an elongated excitation coil in a fixed position mounted on the top of the sample and tunneling magnetoresistive sensor to measure magnetic field. The measured magnetic fields were used as input to the inverse subregion FEM solver and the machined artificial defects were characterized with excellent accuracy.
GENETIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL INFLUENCES ON TOLBUTAMIDE METABOLISM

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the genetic and environmental influences on tolbutamide metabolism. The use of tolbutamide, which is an oral hypoglycemic sulfonylurea, has decreased since the University Group Diabetes Program (UGDP) reported excessive cardiovascular mortality associated with the administration of the drug. Tolbutamide is metabolized by oxidation of the tolyl methyl group. The initial reaction is mediated by cytochrome P-450 and the product is the benzyl alcohol, hydroxytolbutamide. This step is induced in rats by phenobarbital. Further metabolism to the carboxylic acid occurs via the cytoplasmic enzymes alcohol dehydrogenase and aldehyde dehydrogenase. Humans exhibit a trimodal distribution in the rate of tolbutamide clearance attributed to a single gene affecting the P-450 mediated oxidation. The chapter describes experiments that characterize tolyl methyl oxidation in microsomes from rats pretreated with inducers and from two inbred strains of mice.
Management and Community Restoration

Periodic fires in grasslands, savannas, and encroached woodlands are very important and should not be overlooked or underestimated as management tools. Without fire, which was a natural part of the grassland ecosystems (Fig. 8.1), the woody plants are favored rather than the grasses (Van Auken 2009). An excellent visual example of the result of using fire to control the encroachment of woody species in tall grass prairie is from the Konza prairie in Kansas (Fig. 8.2). In the center of the photograph is a firebreak. To the left of the firebreak, the prairie was burned infrequently (once every 10 years). The encroachment of a variety of woody plants is easily seen. To the right of the firebreak, the prairie was burned frequently (once every 2 years). The lack of woody plants is obvious (this figure is modified from Van Auken (2009) and was taken by D. C. McKinley). However, burning discontinuous arid and semiarid shrublands or former grasslands today is difficult because of the patchy nature of the communities and the limited amount of light, fluffy fuel (Schlesinger et al. 1996; Jurena and Van Auken 1998).
The low-x programme at an electron-ion collider

One of the important results to come out of the HERA physics programme was the observation of the dominance of gluons at small momenta in the nucleon. In fact, these gluons show an explosion as you go to smaller-x. Due to limits on the cross-section, this explosion must be tamed and a saturation of the gluon occupancy must occur at small-x. This is particularly interesting in the case of heavy-ion physics where many of the interesting processes (jet-quenching, entropy/viscosity ratio) are strongly dependent on the initial conditions and the gluon distributions in regions of x which are relevant to collisions at RHIC and the LHC are unknown theoretically. In this paper, I will outline the proposed measurements to be made at an Electron-Ion Collider, with particular emphasis of e+A collisions, where the nuclear enhancement factor allows us to explore dense matter at equivalent values of x which are orders of magnitude smaller than is achievable in e+p collisions in the same collider system.
Covariation of Neonatal Intensive Care Unit-Level Patent Ductus Arteriosus Management and In-Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Outcomes Following Preterm Birth.

Objective To test the hypothesis that neonatal intensive care unit (NICU)-specific changes in patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) management are associated with changes in local outcomes in preterm infants. Study design This retrospective repeated-measures study of aggregated data included infants born 400-1499 g admitted within 2 days of delivery to NICUs participating in the California Perinatal Quality Care Collaborative. The period 2008-2015 was divided into four 2-year epochs. For each epoch and NICU, we calculated proportions of infants receiving cyclooxygenase inhibitor (COXI) or PDA ligation and determined NICU-specific changes in these therapies between consecutive epochs. Generalized estimating equations were used to examine adjusted relationships between NICU-specific changes in PDA management and contemporaneous changes in local outcomes. Results We included 642 observations of interepoch change at 119 hospitals summarizing 32 094 infants. NICU-specific changes in COXI use and ligation showed significant dose-response associations with contemporaneous changes in adjusted local outcomes. Each percentage point decrease in NICU-specific proportion treated with either COXI or ligation was associated with a 0.21 percentage point contemporaneous increase in adjusted local in-hospital mortality (95% CI 0.06, 0.33; P = .005) among infants born 400-749 g. In contrast, decreasing NICU-specific ligation rate among infants 1000-1499 g was associated with decreasing adjusted local bronchopulmonary dysplasia (P = .009) and death or bronchopulmonary dysplasia (P = .01). Conclusions NICU-specific outcomes of preterm birth co-vary with local PDA management. Treatment for PDA closure may benefit some infants born 400-749 g. Decreasing NICU-specific rates of COXI use or ligation were not associated with increases in local adjusted rates of examined adverse outcomes in larger preterm infants.
Things She Could Never Have

On March 8th 2018, Pakistani women from different backgrounds-rich and poor, young and old, working women and stay-at-home mothers-came out of their homes to join hands in a women’s march. The marc...
Taxonomic studies in the Miconieae (Melastomataceae). VII. Miconia howardiana, a new speices from Hispaniola

Miconia howardiana, which is known only from a diverse moist montane forest in the vicinity of Loma Trocha de Pey (or “Monteada Nueva”), the easternmost peak of the Sierra de Baoruco, is described and illustrated. It is compared to phenetically similar (and probably phylogenetically related) species of theMiconia favosa complex, i.e.,M. favosa, M. xenotricha, M. campanensis M. Sintenisii, M. foveolata, andM. pycnoneura. The species of this complex are characterized by bullate leaves with frequently cordate bases and often six secondary veins. Most species also have large berries and flowers, 5-locular ovaries, large inflorescence bracts and bracteoles, and more or less dendritic multicellular hairs.
Continuous Readout versus Titer-Based Assays of Influenza Vaccine Trials: Sensitivity, Specificity, and False Discovery Rates

The current gold standard for measuring antibody-based immunity to influenza viruses relies on the hemagglutinin inhibition assay (HAI), an 80-year-old technology, and the microneutralization assay (MN). Both assays use serial dilution to provide a discrete, ranked readout of 8–14 categorical titer values for each sample. In contrast to other methods of measuring vaccine antibody levels that produce a continuous readout (i.e., mPLEX-Flu and ELISA), titering methods introduce imprecision and increase false discovery rates (FDR). In this paper, we assess the degree of such statistical errors, first with simulation studies comparing continuous data with titer data in influenza vaccine study group comparison analyses and then by analyzing actual sample data from an influenza vaccine trial. Our results show the superiority of using continuous, rather than discrete, readout assays. Compared to continuous readout assays, titering assays have a lower statistical precision and a higher FDR. The results suggested that traditional titering assays could lead to increased Type-II errors in the comparison of different therapeutic arms of an influenza vaccine trial. These statistical issues are related to the mathematical nature of titer-based assays, which we examine in detail in the simulation studies. Continuous readout assays are free of this issue, and thus it is possible that comparisons of study groups could provide different results with these two methods as we have shown in our case study.
Male courtship signal modality and female mate preference in the wolf spider Schizocosa ocreata : results of digital multimodal playback studies.

Females must be able to perceive and assess male signals, especially when they occur simultaneously with those of other males. Previous studies show female Schizocosa ocreata wolf spiders display receptivity to isolated visual or vibratory courtship signals, but increased receptivity to multimodal courtship. It is unknown whether this is true when females are presented with a choice between simultaneous multimodal and isolated unimodal male courtship. We used digital playback to present females with a choice simulating simultaneous male courtship in different sensory modes without variation in information content: 1) isolated unimodal visual versus vibratory signals; 2) multimodal versus vibratory signals; and 3) multimodal versus visual signals. When choosing between isolated unimodal signals (visual or vibratory), there were no significant differences in orientation latency and number of orientations, approaches or receptive displays directed to either signal. When given a choice between multimodal versus vibratory-only male courtship signals, females were more likely to orient to the multimodal stimulus, and directed significantly more orients, approaches and receptivity behaviors to the multimodal signal. When presented with a choice between multimodal and visual-only signals, there were significantly more orients and approaches to the multimodal signal, but no significant difference in female receptivity. Results suggest that signal modes are redundant and equivalent in terms of qualitative responses, but when combined, multimodal signals quantitatively enhance detection and/or reception. This study confirms the value of testing preference behavior using a choice paradigm, as female preferences may depend on the context (e.g., environmental context and social context) in which they are presented with male signals.
Developing increased leader capacity to support effective professional learning community teams

Increasingly, research suggests that successful professional learning communities (PLCs) worldwide need effective principals to strengthen pedagogy and develop skills that facilitate team planning ...
Two cases of tandem bullets-one homicide and one suicide

We report 2 unusual cases of tandem bullets. Case 1 is a homicide involving a piggyback screw. Case 2 is a suicide involving multiple tandem bullets as a result of improper ammunition size. Tandem bullet injuries can have a wide variety of presentations. Therefore, it is essential that forensic pathologists understand the mechanisms of tandem bullet wounds and familiarize themselves with the autopsy and radiological findings seen in tandem bullet injuries. This report supports that use of incorrect caliber ammunition and the lodgment of foreign objects in the barrel of a gun are possible causes of tandem bullet injuries.
Challenging claims of ?elliptic flow? by comparing azimuth quadrupole and jet-related angular correlations from Au?Au collisions at $\sqrt{{{s}_{NN}}}$ = 62 and 200 GeV

Background: A component of azimuth correlations from high-energy heavy ion collisions varying as and denoted by symbol v2 is conventionally interpreted to represent 'elliptic flow,' a hydrodynamic manifestation of the initial-state A–A overlap geometry. Several numerical methods are used to estimate v2, resulting in various combinations of 'flow' and 'nonflow' that reveal systematic biases in the v2 estimates. QCD jets contribute strongly to azimuth correlations and specifically to the component. Purpose: We question the extent of jet-related ('nonflow') bias in and hydrodynamic 'flow' interpretations of v2 measurements. Method: We introduce two-dimensional model fits to angular correlation data that distinguish accurately between jet-related correlation components and a nonjet (NJ) azimuth quadrupole that might represent 'elliptic flow' if that were relevant. We compare measured jet-related and 'flow'-related data systematics and determine the jet-related contribution to v2 measurements. Results: Jet structure does introduce substantial bias to conventional v2 measurements, making interpretation difficult. The NJ quadrupole exhibits very simple systematics on centrality and collision energy—the two variables factorize. Within a Au–Au centrality interval where jets show no indication of rescattering or medium effects the NJ quadrupole amplitude rises to 60% of its maximum value. Conclusions: Disagreements between NJ quadrupole systematics and hydro theory expectations, the large quadrupole amplitudes observed in more-peripheral Au–Au collisions and a significant nonzero value in N–N ≈ p–p collisions strongly suggest that the NJ quadrupole does not arise from a hydrodynamic flow mechanism.
Imaging for Orbital Diseases: Traditional Modalities and Newer Concepts

Radiological imaging in ophthalmology plays an important role to complement a thorough clinical examination. Imaging of the orbit involves detailed evaluation of the globe, bony orbit, the orbital and periorbital soft tissues, and their relationship to each other. Ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are mainstays in orbital imaging, supplemented in particular situations with more advanced or specific imaging. Radiography, for the most part, has been superseded by advances in CT imaging techniques. Recognizing the normal postoperative appearance of commonly encountered orbital procedures is also important to eliminate erroneous diagnoses and to help in early detection of postoperative complications. This chapter discusses a wide spectrum of orbital diseases commonly encountered in clinical practice to help guide the differential diagnosis.
Production economics: comparing hybrid tree-length with whole-tree harvesting methods

Felled trees with tops and branches are transported to the landing with a grapple skidder in conventional groundbased whole-tree (WT) harvesting. This method has greater potential to damage advance regeneration than those in which trees are processed at-stump. Hybrid tree-length (Hyb TL) harvesting using an stroke-boom delimber for in-woods processing might be a feasible alternative, but little is known about the production economics of this method. An experimental strip-cutting study was conducted in central Maine, US in the winter of 2018 to: (1) evaluate and compare operational productivity and costs of ground-based Hyb TL and WT methods; (2) identify factors influencing productivity of at-stump and at-landing log processing; and (3) calculate best management practice (BMP) implementation costs in WT harvesting. Time-motion data were recorded for operational phases such as felling, extraction, processing, sorting and loading; machine rates were calculated to determine productivity and costs of operations. Total cost of Hyb TL (US $17.01 m−3) was lower than that of WT ($18.38m−3). Processing costwas lower at-stump than at-landing ($2.66 and $2.73m−3 for Hyb TL and WT, respectively). This is likely due to fewer logs handled per cycle at-landing (1.2 logs per turn) compared to the number handled per cycle at-stump (1.4 logs per turn). Sensitivity analysis showed that a 30-m increase in average in-woods distance travelled by the delimber would result in a 41 per cent increase in the processing cost. Cost of BMP implementation in WT was $2.25 m−3 or $59.2 per productive machine hour. Results suggest that it is feasible to apply Hyb TL method in an industrial harvesting operation, though distance of in-woods delimber movement influences processing costs. Insights from this study will help forest managers and loggers efficiently plan and execute harvesting operations.
Toward High-Energy Batteries: High-Voltage Stability via Superstructure Control

One pathway to higher energy density batteries is by way of intercalation cathodes that operate at high voltage, storing charge on both the oxide and transition metal ions. In the January 23, 2020 issue of Nature, Peter Bruce and colleagues illuminate the mechanism by which the honeycomb superstructure of most O-redox compounds is lost, along with the high energy density, upon first-cycle charging. The secret of certain intercalation compounds maintaining the desired high-voltage electrochemistry upon cycling is in their unique superstructures that resist molecular O2 formation.
Health-related values of newly-diagnosed cancer patients: Qualitative analysis of oncology nurse-led discussions.

e24163Background: A novel, patient-verified summary documenting nurse-led discussions assessing health-related values of newly-diagnosed cancer patients has been implemented in outpatient gastroint...
Mesothelial Tumors of the Pleura

Primary tumors of the pleura are relatively rare lesions, being far outnumbered by metastatic disease to the pleural surfaces. Tumors of mesothelial origin represent a subgroup of these tumors and malignant mesothelioma is the most common primary malignant neoplasm of the pleural surfaces. Malignant mesothelioma is a highly aggressive malignancy that responds poorly to treatment and has a dismal overall survival (Zellos and Sugarbaker, Semin Oncol 29:41–50, 2002; Edwards et al., Thorax 55:731–5, 2000; Scherpereel et al., Eur Respir J 35:479–95, 2010). Malignant mesothelioma is a heterogeneous disease with different histological patterns and genomic characteristics. The vast majority of cases are attributable to asbestos exposure and typically develop after a long latency period (Wagner et al., Br J Ind Med 17:260–71, 1960; Astoul et al., Respiration 83:481–93, 2012). This long latency is to blame for the rising incidence of mesothelioma cases, despite the ban of mining, processing, and use of asbestos in many industrialized countries. Studies with the aim of identifying targetable mutations in mesothelioma are currently ongoing as novel therapeutic strategies are being sought. Benign mesothelial tumors, on the other hand, are extremely rare in the pleural cavity despite their more frequent occurrence in other mesothelial-lined spaces, such as the peritoneum or the genitourinary tract.
Eviction Dynamics in Market-Rate Multifamily Rental Housing

Evictions are a pressing issue facing many low-income renters. The growing scholarship on evictions generally groups together all types of evictions across multiple property and owner types. Evicti...
Greenspace exposure and COVID-19 mortality in the United States: January-July 2020.

Abstract Background Mortality from the novel coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) continues to rise across the United States. Evidence is emerging that environmental factors may contribute to susceptibility to disease and mortality. Greenspace exposure promotes enhanced immunity and may protect against risk of mortality among those with COVID-19. Objectives Our objective was to determine if high county level greenspace exposure is associated with reduced risk of COVID-19 mortality. Methods Greenspace exposure was characterized in 3049 counties across the conterminous United States using Leaf Area Index (LAI) deciles that were derived from satellite imagery via Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer from 2011 to 2015. COVID-19 mortality data were obtained from the Center for Systems Science and Engineering at Johns Hopkins University. We used a generalized linear mixed model to evaluate the association between county level LAI and COVID-19 mortality rate in analyses adjusted for 2015–2019 county level average total county population, older population, race, overcrowding in home, Medicaid, education, and physical inactivity. Results A dose-response association was found between greenness and reduced risk of COVID-19 mortality. COVID-19 mortality was negatively associated with LAI deciles 8 [MRR = 0.82 (95% CI: 0.72, 0.93)], 9 [MRR = 0.78 (95% CI: 0.68, 0.89)], and 10 [MRR = 0.59 (95% CI: 0.50, 0.69)]. Aside from LAI decile 5, no associations were found between the remaining LAI deciles and COVID-19 mortality. Increasing prevalence of counties with older age residents, low education attainment, Native Americans, Black Americans, and housing overcrowding were significantly associated with increased risk of COVID-19 mortality, whereas Medicaid prevalence was associated with a reduced risk. Discussion Counties with a higher amount of greenspace may be at a reduced risk of experiencing mortality due to COVID-19.
The Effect of Zero-Point Energy in Simulating Organic Reactions with Post-Transition State Bifurcation

Ambimodal reactions involve a single transition state leading to multiple products. To assess the ratio of the bifurcation products, quasiclassical trajectories (QCTs) are initiated from transition state geometries that are randomly sampled using the zero-point energy (ZPE) plus thermal energy of a molecule’s vibrational modes. However, in the QCTs, the influence of ZPE percentage in the resulting bifurcation ratio and time gap between formation of bonds is not well understood. To benchmark the effect of varying the percentage of the molecules’ inherent ZPE used in the simulation, three organic reactions with distinct mechanisms that all display post-transition state bifurcation were selected. The three reactions studied include an intramolecular [6+4]/[4+2] cycloaddition, an asynchronous nitrene insertion, and an SN2/addition to a carbonyl on an α-bromoketone. These reactions encompass various modes of bond formation and cleavage, offering a broad view of the influence of ZPE scaling in evaluating the product ratio resulted from post-transition state bifurcation. This work will establish a basis for future QCT studies of organic reactions.
Vectors and Cartesian Tensors

The mathematical concepts associated with the study of solid mechanics, like those of elementary mechanics, may be represented using nothing more than ordinary scalar and vector mathematics. The use of such mathematics has, however, generally been found to be somewhat awkward and lengthy and it has become popular in recent years to employ instead the unified mathematics of tensors—and, in particular, Cartesian tensors — for representing these concepts in a clearer and more concise fashion. In keeping with this modern trend, Cartesian tensors will therefore be employed throughout this book. We accordingly begin our study of solid mechanics with a brief review of certain ideas from vector analysis as expressed in the tensor notation and subsequently use these ideas to introduce the more general concept of Cartesian tensors.
Noise-coupled /spl Delta//spl Sigma/ ADC's

The first-order noise coupling scheme proposed earlier is generalised to the realisation of higher-order enhancement. It is also extended to single-stage ΔΣ loops, and to split structures with self-enhancement. The advantages and limitations of these new ΔΣ architectures are compared with those of conventional single-stage and cascade ΔΣ structures. As demonstrated by an example, they exhibit improved stability and robustness under practical fabrication conditions.
Analysis of some compliance calibration data for chevron-notch bar and rod specimens

A set of equations describing certain fracture mechanics parameters for chevron-notch bar and rod specimens are presented. They are developed by fitting earlier compliance calibration data. The difficulty in determining the minimum stress intensity coefficient and the critical crack length is discussed.
Public Enterprises in Developing Countries: Issues of Privatization

This paper examines the reasons for the shift towards the privatization of public enterprises in developing countries and the conditions under which privatization will bring the desired results. It is suggested that privatization may be regarded as a response to perceived differences in efficiency between private and public enterprises which is given urgency by the difficult financial situation of public enterprises in many developing countries. At the same time, for privatization to be successful, it is necessary to establish competitive conditions in the industry concerned. Finally, in cases where political obstacles stand in the way of privatization, consideration may be given to leasing or management contracts, to closing down firms where conditions are without repair, and to improving the operation of public enterprises.
A general equation for KOP and KPR description

Abstract A general equation for description of the stress intensity factor for crack opening, Kop, is presented. The equations has three coefficients which can be determined using three reference values at load ratios equal −1, 0, and a limiting value 1. The same type of equation is applicable also to express the stress intensity factor for crack propagation, KPR. Similarly, three reference values at load ratios equal −1, 0, and a limiting value 1 are sufficient to determine equation’s coefficients. This general equation follows closely the trend of experimental data reported in literature for both Kop and KPR. Hence, unlike some equations obtained by least square nonlinear regression, the proposed equation is not limited to a specific range of load ratios.
On pairs of metrics invariant under a cocompact action of a group

Consider two intrinsic metrics invariant under the same cocompact action of an abelian group. Assume that the ratio of the distances tends to one as the distances grow to infinity. Then it is known (due to D. Burago) that the difference between the metric functions is uniformly bounded. We will prove an analog of this result for hyperbolic groups, as well as a partial generalization of this result for the Heisenberg group: a word metric on the Heisenberg group lies within bounded GH distance from its asymptotic cone.
Harmony and Diversity in Global Patent Law

The second half of the twentieth century saw the rise of a broad movement to harmonize patent laws across nation-states. The most recent, and most significant, manifestation of this movement is the 1994 TRIPS Agreement, which requires signatory nations to adopt uniform rules on many major issues of patent law. The TRIPS Agreement has now been implemented by well over one hundred countries, including almost all major industrial nations, and it heralds a new level of international uniformity in patent law. This Article, while acknowledging the value of some harmonization of national law , explores the possible costs of the harmonization movement. Patent law itself owes its very birth not to harmony but to diversity of national law. The fifteenth-century Venetian patent statute was an experiment in law and a departure from the classical hostility to monopoly. Throughout the history of patent law, individual nations have varied their law and practice, and the results of these experiments have strengthened and improved patent practice. Diversity and experimentation continue today. As case studies of such experimentation, this Article examines business method patents and law governing the experimental use defense to patent infringement, an area in which both commentators and nations have split as to the proper approach for the law. This Article concludes that the patent law of the twenty-first century would be enriched if national and international policymakers learn to value variety.
Marine gas hazards control: Cleaning and gas-freeing shipboard tanks

After listing accidents that have happened to a number of tankers following cargo-tank explosions and fires, the Author discusses the cleaning procedures followed aboard U.S. vessels at sea and in port, the testing procedures used in U.S. ports, and the certification of vessels prior to repairs. The duration of the washing period varies with the condition of the tank, the nature of the oil last carried, and the nature of the next scheduled cargo. A minimum time of half an hour is usually sufficient for washing a coated tank that previously contained a non-viscous product, but a maximum of four hours may be required for washing a scaly uncoated compartment with heavy viscous residue. After being washed the tanks must be ventilated to permit entry by personnel for final cleaning and inspection. The procedure for LNG vessels is described involving three steps: warm-up, inerting, and air filling, i.e. after inerting the tanks are air filled by using the inert-gas plant to compress and dehydrate fresh air to about -30 degrees F. This air is then used to displace the inert gas until the oxygen content of the gas exhausting from the tanks is 20%. Prior to any structural repairs involving heat in way of fuel tanks, an inspection by the U.S. Coast Guard must be carried out in accordance with NFPA Standard No. 306.
THE USEFUL INTERFACE EXPERIENCE: THE ROLE AND TRANSFORMATION OF USABILITY

Publisher Summary Competing values of both usability and rich experiences can cause tension in any good interface design. Usability was once considered an encompassing term for interactive systems that were easy to learn, easy to use, and effective with respect to work activity. In the late 1990s, perspectives began to expand as to what a quality user experience really meant. Over time usability and user experience became fractured by the multitude of definitions and concepts on what usability does entail and, more prevalently, what it is thought to overlook. With incongruent definitions and relentless criticism of usability, one might be forced to feel they must choose one over another. This is an unnecessary battle. Usability is the first level of any design goal. Common practice usually shows that usability is a good place to start and experience is something extra if one has the time and money. Separating the two makes as much sense as studying cognition without affect. That divisive notion is being overcome in the cognitive sciences, so experience should be considered an integral part of usability—one cannot have one without the other. This chapter examines the experience of using a practical digital product. From the standpoint of human history, this is still a relatively novel category of experience but one that is increasingly diverse and important in everyday life. This chapter reviews a historical perspective of the concept of usability and the rise of experience in human–computer interaction, and the research on digital products that describe desirable, adverse, and unexpected experiences. This review of research shows how the design of useful interfaces affects the experience of a product—whether it is directly or indirectly, intentional or not—and that broadening the definition of usability is perhaps more useful than separating out experience.
Nonpunctuated and Sweeping Policy Change: Bhutan Tobacco Policy Making from 1991 to 2009

This paper examines policy outputs associated with the 2004 Bhutan antitobacco law, including 2009 amendments, to determine if the law is congruent with punctuated equilibrium or social policy realism theories of policy change. There was no direct and sudden tobacco policy output change in Bhutan due to a shock to the policy system contrary to what punctuated equilibrium theory would predict. Rather, policy change was sweeping but nonpunctuated. This paper reconfirms prior findings of social policy realism theory that various and complex policy output patterns occur due to a mixture of contingent and complex factors. Under social policy realism, a complex interplay of factors drive policy with the state, corporate actors, and interest groups, and the market often playing a primary role. These complex policy outputs have a direct impact on society and the natural environment reflected in government policy output actions or inactions.