cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Effect of a Curved Non-Motorized Treadmill on Running Gait Length, Imbalance and Stride Angle

Running on a non-motorized, curved-deck treadmill is thought to improve gait mechanics. It is not known, though, whether the change in gait carries over to running on a motorized treadmill on level ground. To determine the effect of running on a curved non-motorized treadmill (CNT) on gait characteristics, measured during a subsequent bout of running on a traditional motorized treadmill (TMT), sixteen healthy college-aged participants, aged (mean ± SD) 20.4 ± 1.6 years, volunteered to have their gait analyzed while running on a TMT and CNT. After familiarization with, and a warm-up on, both treadmills, each subject completed five 4-min bouts of running, alternating between traditional motorized and curved non-motorized treadmills: TMT-1, CNT-1, TMT-2, CNT-2, and TMT-3. Variables of interest included step length (m), stride length (m), imbalance score (%), and stride angle (°), and were measured using Optogait gait analysis equipment. We found differences in gait characteristics among TMT-1, TMT-2, and TMT-3, which can be attributed to running on the CNT. The results show that running on a CNT resulted in significant changes in gait characteristics (step length, stride length, imbalance score and stride angle). These findings suggest that running on a CNT can significantly influence running gait.
Formation and growth of interfacial intermetallic layers in eutectic Sn-Ag solder and its composite solder joints

Single shear lap joints were made by soldering two Cu substrates with eutectic Sn-Ag solder, and its composite solders containing FeSn/FeSn2 or Ni3Sn2 intermetallic particles introduced by an in-situ method. Ageing of solder joints was performed at 70, 100, 120, 150, 180 °C for 1400 h. The growth of the interfacial intermetallic compound (IMC) layers was characterized assuming diffusion-controlled growth kinetics. Effects of such FeSn/FeSn2 and Ni3Sn4 particulates on the IMC layer growth rate were extensively characterized. Composite solder joints in the fabricated condition formed thinner IMC layers compared to the corresponding non-composite solder joints. The Cu6Sn5 IMC layer grew faster at temperatures above 120 °C (T/T m=0.8), while growing slower at temperatures below 120 °C in composite solder joints. In-situ introduced FeSn/FeSn2 and Ni3Sn4 particle reinforcements in composite solder joints proved effective in reducing the overall growth of the interfacial Cu6Sn5 IMC layer only at lower temperatures. Composite solder joints exhibited slower growth of the Cu3Sn layer during ageing at all temperatures used in this study. Two different regions having different activation energies depending on the temperature were identified for the growth of Cu6Sn5 and Cu3Sn IMC layers. © 2000 Kluwer Academic Publishers
In Situ Synchrotron Characterization of Complex Oxide Heterostructures

This chapter surveys the high temperature and oxygen partial pressure behavior of complex oxide heterostructures as determined by in situ synchrotron X-ray methods. We consider both growth and post-growth behavior, emphasizing the observation of structural and interfacial defects relevant to the size-dependent properties seen in these systems.
To: Plos One Knowledge, experiences and perceptions of the Ghana National Health Insurance Scheme in three districts

Abstract Background Ghana’s National Health Insurance Scheme is a demand side programme where the governing authority registers clients and purchases health care services for them from public and private providers. Access of services is high across a broad Benefits Package with no parallel enrolment necessary for any type of service at the point of access. Nonetheless, there is evidence of difficulty in acquiring and use of the NHIS card to access health care services. Objective While studies had been conducted into general awareness, there was no linkage between awareness, uptake and experiences with registration and use of the card. This study fills this gap. Methods This is a descriptive study. A mix of qualitative (39 Focus Group Discussions) and quantitative (625 household interviews) methods were used to collect the data. Qualitative data was analysed manually using a thematic approach while a frequency analysis was done for the quantitative data. Results Knowledge about the Scheme was near universal. Enrolment was lower among FGD discussants, 38.7% had valid cards, than for household respondents, 62.9% valid cards. While mixed experiences with the registration process was observed among FGD discussants, 74% of the households’ ranked attitudes of Scheme staff as positive. The study found the NHIS card facilitates access to facility based health care. Satisfaction levels with use of the card were mixed and contextual among discussants. However, 90% of households reported their cards were readily accepted at health facilities. Expired card (51.4%) and health facility had stopped accepting NHIS cards (14.3%) were mentioned as reasons for non-acceptance. Conclusion People’s experience during registration and use of the NHIS card to access health care has lasting effect on their perceptions of the Scheme. This can be harnessed to manage the high expectations, grow membership, discourage frivolous use and address artificial barriers of access.
Shoulder and Elbow Fractures in Athletes

The purposes of this review are to discuss the management of shoulder and elbow fractures in athletes to optimize the return to sport and to highlight treatment impact on the return to play. Fractures of the shoulder and elbow can have profound implications in an athlete career. Recent technique of fractures management trended toward to preserve soft tissue which is critical for an early recovery in athletic population. Arthroscopy presents a strong interest for the treatment of intra-articular fracture, and minimally invasive approach as developed in humeral shaft fracture can be considered to avoid soft tissue damage. Non-articular, stable, and minimally displaced fractures are mainly treated conservatively. However, we encourage a more aggressive approach in shoulder and elbow injuries in the athletes including minimally invasive and stable fixation to preserve vascularity and muscle environment.
Sediment organic carbon and temperature effects on methylmercury concentration: A mesocosm experiment.

Abstract The fate and mobility of mercury, and its bioaccumulation primarily as methylmercury (MeHg), in marine ecosystems are influenced by climate related environmental factors, including increased temperature and carbon loading. To investigate the interactions between sediment organic carbon and temperature MeHg bioaccumulation, mesocosm experiments were conducted examining relationships between sediment, water column and biota (sediment-dwelling amphipod and juvenile oyster) MeHg concentration. Experimental treatments consisted of a two by two design of high and low temperature (15 & 25 °C) and high and low sediment organic carbon (4–5% and 13% LOI, pre-experiment). Sediment organic carbon had significant individual effects on MeHg concentration in water and biota, with higher carbon associated with lower MeHg. Temperature individual effects were significant for sediment, water, and only amphipod MeHg concentration, with higher temperature treatments indicating higher MeHg concentration. There were significant temperature × carbon interactions observed for sediment, dissolved, and oyster MeHg concentration. Sediment carbon reduction had greater influence than temperature on increasing MeHg concentrations in both the water column and biota. MeHg concentrations in the bulk sediment were not correlated with MeHg in the water column or in the biota, indicating that even when sediments are the only source of MeHg, bulk sediment measurements do not provide a good proxy for bioaccumulation and that the concentration in bulk sediments is not the primary determinant of MeHg entry into the food web.
An Evaluation of Simulated Precipitation Characteristics during OLYMPEX

AbstractThe OLYMPEX field campaign, which took place around the Olympic Mountains of Washington State during winter 2015/16, provided data for evaluating the simulated microphysics and precipitatio...
NPs' use of guidelines to diagnose and treat childhood ADHD

Current research on NPs' use of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Clinical Practice Guideline for the Diagnosis, Evaluation, and Treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Children and Adolescents is limited. This cross-sectional survey examined 89 NPs in Upstate New York regarding self-reported practice behaviors based on the guideline. Most NPs followed at least 50% of the AAP guideline for diagnosis and treatment. However, use of all criteria was less than optimal.
Alternative Estimation Methods; Recursive Systems

In this chapter we shall consider alternative distribution-free estimators, that is, estimators whose derivation does not depend on explicit specification of the form of the distribution of the error terms of the system. In particular, we shall consider indirect least squares and instrumental variables estimators, and in the context of the former we shall discuss, in somewhat greater detail than previously, the identification problem. Finally, we shall examine the simplifications that accrue to the estimation problem when the econometric model under consideration is recursive.
Laboratory of socialist development: Cold War politics and decolonization in Soviet Tajikistan: by Artemy M. Kalinovsky, Ithaca and London, Cornell University Press, 2018, 336 pp., US$42.95 (hardback), ISBN 978-1-5017-1556-3, US$20.99 (ebook), ISBN 978-1-5017-1557-0

Over the past twenty years, historians have engaged in wide-ranging debates over the nature of Soviet power in Central Asia. Drawing on insights from postcolonial theory and gender studies, they ha...
Validation of a sensitive UHPLC-MS/MS method for cytochrome P450 probe substrates caffeine, tolbutamide, dextromethorphan, and alprazolam in human serum reveals drug contamination of serum used for research.

Abstract To evaluate the potential for interactions between botanical dietary supplements and drug metabolism, Phase I clinical pharmacokinetics studies are conducted using an oral cocktail of probe substrates of cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes. A sensitive, specific, and fast ultra-high performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) method was developed and validated for determination of caffeine (probe of CYP1A2), tolbutamide (probe of CYP2C9), dextromethorphan (probe of CYP2D6), and alprazolam (probe of CYP3A4/5) in human serum. Stable isotope-labelled analogs were used as internal standards, and sample preparation involved only rapid protein precipitation and centrifugation. The method of standard addition was used for the measurement of caffeine, because commercially available pooled human serum contains caffeine. Out of 18 lots of pooled human serum tested, caffeine was detection in all lots, alprazolam was detected in 13 lots, 8 lots contained dextromethorphan, and no tolbutamide was detected. Only serum prepared from the blood of select individuals was determined to be drug-free. The analytical method was validated with respect to linearity, accuracy and precision, recovery, stability, and matrix effects. The calibration curves were linear over the range of 25-12,000 ng/mL for caffeine, 75-36,000 ng/mL for tolbutamide, 0.05−30 ng/mL for dextromethorphan, and 0.1−60 ng/mL for alprazolam. The intra-assay and inter-assay coefficients of variation (%CV) and %Bias were
Pretest and Posttest Evaluation of a Longitudinal, Residency-Integrated Microsurgery Course.

INTRODUCTION Current microsurgical training courses average 5 consecutive 8-hour days and cost US $1500 to US $2500/individual, making training a challenge for residents who are unable to take leave from clinical duties. This residency-integrated microsurgery course was designed for integration with a residency program, averaging 3 hours/week over 7 weeks. This allows for one-on-one training, beginning with synthetic tissue and concluding with in vivo stimulation. This study was performed to validate this longitudinal training course. METHODS After recruitment and before the start of coursework, subjects completed a baseline anastomosis without guidance and a survey regarding microsurgical experience. Subjects completed approximately 3 hours/week of practical exercises. Weeks 1 to 5 used synthetic models, whereas 6 to 7 used in vivo rodent models. Nine minimum anastomoses of increasing complexity were completed and assessed with the Anastomosis Lapse Index and the Stanford Microsurgery and Residency Training scale. Scoring was performed by 3 independent reviewers and averaged for comparison. RESULTS Five subjects completed the course for study. Presurvey results showed an average confidence in theoretical knowledge of 2/5; technical ability to perform procedures, 1.8/5; and ability to manage complications, 1.8/5. Postsurvey revealed confidence in theoretical knowledge of 2.5/5; technical ability to perform procedures, 2.25/5; and ability to manage complications, 2.25/5. None of these differences were significant. Each individual component of the Stanford Microsurgery and Residency Training scale scoring system improved postcourse with P < 0.05, and overall performance score improved from an average of 2.6 to 3.9 (P = 0.006). The total number of errors recorded using the Anastomosis Lapse Index reduced from 6.58 to 3.41 (P = 0.02). Time to completion reduced from an average of 28 minutes, 8 seconds to 24 minutes, 5 seconds (P = 0.003). CONCLUSIONS Despite a lack in significant confidence improvement, completion of the residency-integrated microsurgery course leads to significant and quantifiable improvement in resident microsurgical skill and efficiency.
The 4th Generation Light Source at Jefferson Lab

A new generation of light sources is now coming on line to address more fundamental scientific challenges in the realms of the ultra-small and ultra-fast, as well as in dynamics. At Jefferson Lab we have developed an Energy Recovered Linac [1,2] based light source that provides tunable sub-ps and synchronized pulses of IR and THz light not available elsewhere. In SRN 13.4 (2000), we reported on an earlier incarnation of this light source [2], and in the past seven years it has undergone a major upgrade [3].
Suspected Placenta Accreta: Using Imaging to Stratify Risk of Morbidity.

OBJECTIVE This study was aimed to compare clinical outcomes and use of interventions in women with suspected accreta based on the degree of antenatal suspicion. STUDY DESIGN This was a retrospective cohort study of women with suspected accreta from 2007 to 2019. Included patients had one or more imaging studies suggestive of accreta. Cases were classified as "lower risk" if imaging showed possible signs of accreta including mild or superficial myometrial infiltration, an abnormal uterine contour, an abnormal uteroplacental interface, or loss of the retroplacental hypoechoic zone and "higher risk" if there was clear evidence of more than superficial myometrial infiltration, placental tissue extruding beyond the uterine serosa, bridging vessel(s), or placental lacunae with high velocity and/or turbulent flow. The primary study outcome was a composite maternal morbidity including cesarean hysterectomy, transfusion of blood or blood products, unintentional cystotomy, or intensive care unit (ICU) admission. Chi-square, Fisher's exact test, and Mann-Whitney U-test were used for analysis. RESULTS A total of 78 women had a suspected accreta on imaging, 36 with "lower risk" features and 42 with "higher risk" features. There were no differences in baseline maternal demographics. Women in the "higher risk" group were more likely to have a placenta previa (p < 0.01) and preoperative consultation with gynecologic oncology (p = 0.04). There was a significant difference in composite maternal morbidity between patients with "lower risk" and "higher risk" features of accreta on imaging (50 vs. 92.9%, p < 0.01). Median gestational age at planned and actual delivery were earlier in the "higher risk" group (36.6 vs. 34.9 weeks, p < 0.01; 36.0 vs. 34.7 weeks, p < 0.01). CONCLUSION Stratification of women with suspected accreta based on imaging corresponded to rates of maternal morbidity and operative complications, and appears to have been used clinically in selecting timing of delivery and interventions. KEY POINTS · Increased morbidity with high risk accreta imaging.. · Interventions correlate with accreta imaging risk.. · Imaging can be used to stratify accreta cases..
Study on aluminum alloy joints welded with nano-treated Al-Mg-Mn filler wire

Abstract Arc welding of high-strength aluminum alloys is economical and reliable in industry, but it is often difficult in practice because they suffer from defects such as hot cracks and crater cracks. Here, we incorporate TiC nanoparticles into an Al-Mg-Mn alloy to produce nano-treated filler wire and successfully TIG weld similar systems of AA2024, AA5083, AA6061, and AA7075. As-welded samples exhibited no such defects, and their homogeneous weld metal microstructures showed globular grains smaller than 50 µm. Microhardness profiles of each weld showed sound mechanical behavior. Nano-treatment is therefore a promising solution to enable the arc welding of traditionally hard-to-weld alloy systems.
Pythagorean fuzzy α - continuity

In this research article, we present the new concept of Pythagorean fuzzy α− continuous function between Pythagorean fuzzy topological spaces and establish their corresponding characterizations.
Aerosols Generated during Endodontic Treatment: A Special Concern during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic.

INTRODUCTION: The aims of this study were to investigate aerosolized microorganisms generated during endodontic emergencies and nonsurgical root canal therapy (NSRCT), to assess the spread of airborne microbes, and to verify the spatial distribution of airborne microbial spread. METHODS: A total of 45 endodontic procedures were sampled, including full pulpotomy (n = 15), pulpectomy (n = 15), and NSRCT (n = 15). Samples were collected during room resting and after treatment. The passive air sampling technique using settle plates was applied. Agar plates were set at different locations in the operatory. The colony-forming unit (CFU) was counted in brain-heart infusion blood agar plates. A set of agar plates containing selective chromogenic culture media was used for the isolation and presumptive identification of target microorganisms. Fungi were investigated using Sabouraud dextrose agar. RESULTS: Pulpotomy generated the lowest mean CFU count (P .05). A higher mean CFU count was found close to the patient's mouth (0.5 m) than at a 2-m distance in pulpectomy and NSRCT (P .05). Staphylococcus aureus (22/45, 48.8%) was the most frequent bacteria species. Longer treatment times were associated with higher CFU counts. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings indicated that pulpotomy generates less aerosolized microorganisms than pulpectomy and NSRCT. The proximity to the patient's mouth and the treatment duration were implicated in the level of contamination.
Communicating about COVID-19 vaccine development and safety

Purpose. Beliefs that the risks from the vaccine outweigh the risks from getting COVID-19 and concerns that the vaccine development process was rushed and lacking rigor have been identified as important drivers of hesitancy and refusal to get a COVID-19 vaccine. We tested whether messages designed to address these beliefs and concerns might promote intentions to get a COVID-19 vaccine. Method. An online survey fielded between March 8-March 23, 2021 with US Veteran (=688) and non-Veteran (n=387) respondents. In a between-subjects experiment, respondents were randomly assigned to a control group (with no message) or to read one of two intervention messages: 1. a fact-box styled message comparing the risks of getting COVID-19 compared to the vaccine, and 2. a timeline styled message describing the development process of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines. Results. Most respondents (60%) wanted a COVID-19 vaccine. However, 17% expressed hesitancy and 23% did not want to get a COVID-19 vaccine. The fact-box styled message and the timeline message did not significantly improve vaccination intentions, F(2,358)=0.86, p=.425, partial eta squared =.005, or reduce the time respondents wanted to wait before getting vaccinated, F(2,306)=0.79, p=.453, partial eta squared =.005, compared to no messages. Discussion. We did not find an impact on vaccine intention based on providing information about vaccine risks and development. Further research is needed to identify how to effectively address concerns about the risks associated with COVID-19 vaccines and the development process and to understand additional factors that influence vaccine intentions.
Características de trauma ocular nos Estados Unidos

PURPOSE We aimed to study the characteristics of ocular trauma, an important but largely preventable global cause of blindness, in the United States. METHODS Retrospective chart review of the National Trauma Data Bank (2008-2014) was performed. All patients with ocular trauma were identified using ICD-9CM codes. The collected data were statistically analyzed with student's t-test, Chi-squared test, and logistic regression analysis performed using the SPSS software. The significance was set at p 65 years had higher odds of falls (OR=16.75, 95%CI=16.39-17.12); p<0.001. The Blacks had a greater likelihood of firearm injuries (OR=3.24, 95%CI=3.10-3.39) than the other racial/ethnic groups, the Hispanics experienced more of cut/pierce injuries (OR=2.01, 95%CI=1.85-2.18), and the Whites experienced more of falls (OR=2.3, 95%CI=2.3-2.4); p<0.001. The Blacks (OR=3.41, 95%CI=3.34-3.48) and Hispanics (OR=1.75, 95%CI=1.71-1.79) mostly suffered assaults, while the Whites suffered unintentional injuries (OR=2.78 95%CI=2.74-2.84); p<0.001. Optic nerve/visual pathway injuries had the greatest association with very severe injury severity scores (OR=3.27, 95%CI=3.05-3.49) and severe Glasgow Coma Scores (OR=3.30, 95%CI=3.08-3.54); p<0.001. The mortality rate was 3.9%. CONCLUSIONS Male preponderance and falls, motor vehicle accident-occupant, and struck by/against mechanisms agree with the previous reports. The identified demographic patterns underscore the need to develop group-specific preventive measures.
An Evidence-Based Protocol for Manual Prone Positioning of Patients With ARDS.

BACKGROUND Manual prone positioning has been shown to reduce mortality among patients with moderate to severe acute respiratory distress syndrome, but it is associated with a high incidence of pressure injuries and unplanned extubations. This study investigated the feasibility of safely implementing a manual prone positioning protocol that uses a dedicated device. REVIEW OF EVIDENCE A search of CINAHL and Medline identified multiple randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses that demonstrated both the reduction of mortality when prone positioning is used for more than 12 hours per day in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome and the most common complications of this treatment. IMPLEMENTATION An existing safe patient-handling device was modified to enable staff to safely perform manual prone positioning with few complications for patients receiving mechanical ventilation. All staff received training on the protocol and use of the device before implementation. EVALUATION This study included 36 consecutive patients who were admitted to the medical intensive care unit at a large academic medical center because of hypoxemic respiratory failure/acute respiratory distress syndrome and received mechanical ventilation and prone positioning. Data were collected on clinical presentation, interventions, and complications. SUSTAINABILITY Using the robust protocol and the low-cost device, staff can safely perform a low-volume, high-risk maneuver. This method provides cost savings compared with other prone positioning methods. CONCLUSIONS Implementing a prone positioning protocol with a dedicated device is feasible, with fewer complications and lower costs than anticipated.
Vibration Sources and Conversion Model

In order to determine how much power can be converted from vibrations, the details of the particular vibration source must be considered. This chapter presents the results of a study undertaken to characterize many commonly occurring, low-level, vibrations. A general vibration to electricity model, provided by Williams and Yates (Williams and Yates 1995), is presented and discussed. The model is non-device specific, and therefore the conversion mechanism (i.e. electromagnetic, electrostatic, or piezoelectric) need not be established for the Williams and Yates model to be used. Power output can be roughly estimated given only the magnitude and frequency of input vibrations, and the overall size (and therefore mass) of the device.
Settlement of Pipeline on Thawing Permafrost

A buried oil pipeline in permafrost will thaw the frozen soil around it, and will settle as the thawed soil consolidates. Because the amount of ice in the soil varies from point to point along the pipe alignment, the settlement will be uneven, and will induce bending in the pipe. Thaw settlement estimates from single boreholes give no information about the possible magnitude of differential settlements, and instead statistical measures of the intensity of fluctuations in thaw settlement have to be used. Alternative sources of the required data are suggested, and two different ways of estimating the effects on the pipe are described, one way being based on random process theory and the other on statistical simulation. The flexural stiffness of the pipe modifies the settlement, and methods of taking this effect into account are explained.
Optical Path Generation Strategy and Network Performance in Dynamic Multi-Layered IP+Photonic GMPLS Network

This paper proposes dynamic optical-path generation algorithms and evaluates the impact of these on the performance of the IP+Photonic multi-layered GMPLS network comprising label-switching routers with integrated packet and lambda switching capability. The optical label-switched path (O-LSP) Creation first (OCF) strategy provides excellent throughput in the case of high network capacity
Nucleic Acid Hybridization: A Rapid Method for the Diagnosis of Infectious Diseases

A new method is described for the rapid identification of microorganisms in clinical samples by DNA-DNA hybridization. In this procedure, nucleic acids are labelled nonradioisotopically in the sample, which is then incubated with a panel of immobilized unlabelled DNAs from different organisms as probes. The sample labelling is a photochemical reaction between the nucleic acids in cell lysates and in isopsoralen derivative covalently linked to a biotin moiety for detection. Results are given of the application of the procedure to the identification of pathogens in clinical specimens of urine and cerebrospinal fluid.
L Infinity Embeddings

Given Ɛ, for N sufficiently large, we give a metric on N points which cannot be isometrically embedded in l∞b for b < N - NƐ.
A computer-controlled current-comparator-based load loss standard for calibrating high-voltage power measurement systems

A computer-controlled load loss standard, based on the current-comparator technique, for calibrating high-voltage power measurement systems is described. Measurements can be made at any power factor from zero lag through unity to zero lead, positive or negative power, at voltages up to 100 kV, currents up to 1000 A, and 50 or 60 Hz. The load loss standard features current-comparator-based components including a high-voltage active divider, a unity-gain integrator for producing an accurate and stable reactive component, a high-current transconductance amplifier with the ability to provide a highly accurate current to a circuit that is operated at high voltage, and a computer for control and data reduction. The load loss standard has accuracies of better than 500 ppm in magnitude and 20 ppm in phase. >
Data Swapping: Variations on a Theme by Dalenius and Reiss

Data swapping, a term introduced in 1978 by Dalenius and Reiss for a new method of statistical disclosure protection in confidential data bases, has taken on new meanings and been linked to new statistical methodologies over the intervening twenty-five years. This paper revisits the original (1982) published version of the the Dalenius-Reiss data swapping paper and then traces the developments of statistical disclosure limitation methods that can be thought of as rooted in the original concept. The emphasis here, as in the original contribution, is on both disclosure protection and the release of statistically usable data bases.
Individual Rights under a System of Dual Sovereignty: The Right to Keep and Bear Arms

This article identifies and explains three fundamental propositions about the relationship between the federal and state constitutions, using examples to illustrate the general propositions. Those propositions are as follows: (1) State constitutional provisions that conflict with federal law are preempted; (2) State constitutions may provide greater protection of individual rights than does the federal constitution; and (3) State constitutions in theory also may provide less protection of individual rights than the federal constitution, but in that event they are rendered ineffective by federal preemption. The article then applies these principles in the context of the right to keep and bear arms, making some observations about the nature and scope of that right under both the U.S. and state constitutions. The article includes an appendix that consists of a table with information about all of the state constitutions that include a provision regarding the right to keep and bear arms.
Mitigating operator-induced unavailability by matching imprecise queries

In addition to equipment faults, human error is now recognized as a major cause of computer system unavailability. This paper considers one aspect of human error in critical situations-the inability of operators to retrieve and understand documentation needed for system diagnosis and repair. When technical information vital to recovery is missing, difficult to locate or inaccessible, downtime is lengthened, costs rise, and productivity falls. Finding the right information at the right time is complicated by the ambiguities of natural-language queries when seeking documentation or maintenance information. While the human information processor has the means for resolving ambiguities in language, computers do not. Hence, a key issue in downtime problem resolution is imprecision in human vocabulary. The vocabulary problem can be addressed through statistical mapping of user queries into databases of frequently-asked questions. This technique has been validated empirically, and shown to be effective in achieving correct mappings in 99% of cases tested; it is substantially better than keyword mapping, especially as syntactic and lexical differences grow. When information seeking is accelerated by this technique, downtime can be reduced.
Comment: A better measuring stick for walking in multiple sclerosis

A hallmark of the later stages of multiple sclerosis (MS) is the gradual decline in walking, which both limits mobility and increases risk of injury from falling. Walking is a complex task, involving strength, coordination, and sensation. Like many complex neurologic functions, walking is easy to observe, but difficult to measure. While early characterization of walking dysfunction in MS focused on maximum walking distance and need for assistive devices (i.e., a cane or walker), more recent metrics target walking speed and distance walked within a period of time (i.e., 3-minute walk).
Postthaw characterization of umbilical cord blood: markers of storage lesion.

BACKGROUND The continued growth in the uses of umbilical cord blood (UCB) will require the development of meaningful post-thaw quality assays. This study examines both conventional and new measures for assessing UCB quality after long-term storage.
A double-hurdle approach to advertising: The case of cheese

This article uses a double-hurdle model to examine the demand for cheese. Essentially, this approach argues that the effects of advertising and other factors on product demand should be judged in terms of their influence on two separate decisions: a decision to participate in the market for cheese and the decision concerning how much to purchase. We find that generic advertising for natural cheese has been successful in inducing people into the cheese market but that it does not influence those already buying cheese to increase their purchases.
X-ray photoelectron spectrum of methylisocyanide gas

Abstract The C and N 1 s spectra of methylisocyanide gas have been recorded. Two resolvable peaks of equal intensity are observed in the C 1 s spectrum. Using the equivalent-cores approximation and thermochemical data, together with MNDO MO calculations and the point-charge potential model, the lower-binding-energy C 1 s line is assigned to photo-emission from the isocyano carbon. The strong satellites which have been observed in the spectra of coordination complexes of alkyl and aryl isocyanides are not observed in the spectra of the free molecule. Comparisons of the point-charge-potential-corrected binding energies for C 1 s and N 1 s photoemissions from CH 3 NC and its isomer CH 3 CN with those for a host of other molecules show that photoemissions from the internal atoms in these molecules are accompanied by substantially less than average relaxation energies. These smaller relaxation energies can be understood using valence-bond theory.
Pathologic anatomy of the outflow pathway of aqueous humour in chronic simple glaucoma

The foregoing comments on the possible sites of resistance to aqueous outflow in chronic simple glaucoma ( Kupfer and Ballintine, 1977 ) are most interesting and I would like to take this opportunity to present some of our own findings and inter-pretations of the pathogenesis of this disease.
Tissue Distribution of Polychlorinated Biphenyls and Organochlorine Pesticides and Potential Toxicity to Alaskan Northern Fur Seals Assessed Using PCBs Congener Specific Mode of Action Schemes

The fur seal (Callorhinus ursinus) population has decreased in their primary breeding grounds in the Bering Sea; contamination is among suspected causes. Our goal was to better understand the extent of contamination of seal tissues with certain organochlorine compounds by measuring the concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in fur seal tissues from St. Paul Island, to gain a better perspective of tissue congener distribution and to evaluate the observed PCB levels against toxicologically significant levels for modes of action. Concentrations of 145 PCB congeners (∑145PCBs) and 12 OCPs were measured with gas chromatography–ion trap mass spectrometry in 8 different tissues of 10 male northern fur seals. The mean concentrations of ∑OCPs [in ng/g lipid weight (lw)] were 1180 in blubber, 985 in the heart, 1007 in the liver, 817 in the kidney, 941 in muscle, 660 in reproductive tissues, 204 in the brain, and 322 in the lung. The mean concentrations of ∑145PCBs (in ng/g lw) were 823 in blubber, 777 in the liver, 732 in the heart, 646 in reproductive tissues, 638 in muscle, 587 in the kidney, 128 in the lung, and 74.3 in brain tissues. Concentrations of PCBs affecting the aryl hydrocarbon receptor expressed as total PCB toxic equivalents (∑PCB-TEQs) ranged from 0.3 to 545 pg/g lw for the various tissues. The major contributors to ∑PCB-TEQs are CB-118 in muscle, brain, lung, kidney, and liver, CB-126 in blubber, and CB-118 and CB-126 equally in the heart and reproductive tissues. Concentrations of PCBs affecting Ca2+ homeostatsis expressed as the neurotoxic equivalent (NEQ) showed ∑PCB-NEQs ranged from 17.7 to 215 ng/g lw in all tissues. Although no composite measure of perturbation of thyroid function is available, sufficient amounts of congeners with high binding to the thyroxine transport system were present to warrant consideration of this mode of action in future studies. Analyses of 145 PCBs and mode of action evaluation suggest that PCB contamination could potentially exert an effect on the Alaskan northern fur seal population although the PCB concentrations have been decreasing in the fur seals over the last decade.
Microstructural Changes of Membrane Electrode Assemblies during PEFC Durability Testing at High Humidity Conditions

Morphological changes occurring in membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) were monitored using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) during the course of life testing of H 2 /air polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs). In the fresh catalyst layers, anode Pt particles were found to have smaller particle sizes, better dispersion, and less agglomeration on the carbon-support surfaces than did the cathode Pt 3 Cr alloy particles. The operation-induced agglomeration of catalyst particles was evaluated for both the anode and cathode after defined life testing periods. Agglomeration of catalyst particles occurred primarily during the first 500 h of testing, which was confirmed by both TEM analysis and electrocatalytic surface area measurement. After 500 h, degradation of the recast Nafion ionomer network within the catalyst layers likely contributes more significantly to MEA performance degradation. Migration of metal catalyst particles toward the interface between the catalyst layer and membrane was observed at both electrodes. The Pt anode catalyst was less stable than the Pt 3 Cr cathode catalyst under high current density and high humidity conditions, which was confirmed by the higher extent of migration observed for the pure Pt than for the Pt 3 Cr. Some Pt particles (from both electrodes) were found to migrate into the membrane during the testing period.
NON-LINEAR DYNAMIC MODELING USING COMPONENT MODE SYNTHESIS

This paper investigates the coupling of Component Mode Synthesis (CMS) and non-linear solution techniques to simulate the non-linear dynamic response of structures. CMS techniques can be used to model flexibility of substructures in a primarily rigid body dynamic solution through the use of modal superposition. The limitation of this technique, as implemented in commercial rigid body dynamics codes, is that only the linear elastic response of the substructure can be modelled. An implicit method is presented, which couples a fixed interface CMS technique with classical plasticity theory to approximate non-linear material effects during a dynamic simulation. An example problem is provided to indicate the accuracy and limitations of this type of solution technique.
Alterations in the Chlamydomonas Plastocyanin Transit Peptide Have Distinct Effects on in VitroImport and in Vivo Protein Accumulation

Nucleus-encoded chloroplast proteins that reside in the thylakoid lumen are synthesized as precursors with bipartite transit peptides that contain information for uptake and intra-chloroplast localization. We have begun to apply the superb molecular and genetic attributes of Chlamydomonas to study chloroplast protein import by creating a series of deletions in the transit peptide of plastocyanin and determining their effects on translocation into isolated Chlamydomonas chloroplasts. Most N-terminal mutations dramatically inhibited in vitroimport, whereas replacement with a transit peptide from the γ-subunit of chloroplast ATPase restored uptake. Thus, the N-terminal region has stroma-targeting function. Deletions within the C-terminal portion of the transit peptide resulted in the appearance of import intermediates, suggesting that this region is required for lumen translocation and processing. Thus, despite its short length and predicted structural differences, the Chlamydomonas plastocyanin transit peptide has functional domains similar to those of vascular plants. Similar mutations have been analyzed in vivo by transforming altered genes into a mutant defective at the plastocyanin locus (K. L. Kindle, manuscript in preparation). Most mutations affectedin vitro import more severely than plastocyanin accumulation in vivo. One exception was a deletion that removed residues 2–8, which nearly eliminated in vivoaccumulation but had a modest effect in vitro. We suggest that this mutant precursor may not compete successfully with other proteins for the translocation pathway in vivo. Apparently,in vivo and in vitro analyses reveal different aspects of chloroplast protein biogenesis.
Strapdown Guidance Error Analysis

A crucial part of so-called ?strapdown? techniques for inertial guidance systems is the generation of the matrix of direction cosines relating the body axes to the reference axes. This is generally done by direct integration of a set of differential equations having the body angular velocities as inputs. This paper is devoted to an error analysis of two commonly used integration schemes, namely, direction cosines and quaternions. Scale, skew, and drift errors are defined, and the susceptibility of the integration schemes to these types of error is examined. It is concluded that the quaternion scheme offers an advantage because it intrinsically yields zero skew error. The paper is presented in two parts, for convenience.
Probing supergravity grand unification in the Brookhaven g-2 experiment

A quantitative analysis of ${\mathit{a}}_{\mathrm{\ensuremath{\mu}}}$\ensuremath{\equiv}1/2(g-2${)}_{\mathrm{\ensuremath{\mu}}}$ within the framework of supergravity grand unification and radiative breaking of the electroweak symmetry is given. It is found that ${\mathit{a}}_{\mathrm{\ensuremath{\mu}}}^{\mathrm{SUSY}}$ is dominated by the chiral interference term from the light chargino exchange, and that this term carries a signature which correlates strongly with the sign of \ensuremath{\mu}. Thus as a rule ${\mathit{a}}_{\mathrm{\ensuremath{\mu}}}^{\mathrm{SUSY}}$g0 for \ensuremath{\mu}g0 and ${\mathit{a}}_{\mathrm{\ensuremath{\mu}}}^{\mathrm{SUSY}}$0 for \ensuremath{\mu}0 with very few exceptions when tan\ensuremath{\beta}\ensuremath{\sim}1. At the quantitative level it is shown that if the E821 BNL experiment can reach the expected sensitivity of 4\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}10}$ and there is a reduction in the hadronic error by a factor of 4 or more, then the experiment will explore a majority of the parameter space in the ${\mathit{m}}_{0}$-${\mathit{m}}_{\mathit{g}\mathrm{\ifmmode \tilde{}\else \~{}\fi{}}}$ plane in the region ${\mathit{m}}_{0}$\ensuremath{\lesssim}400 GeV, ${\mathit{m}}_{\mathit{g}\mathrm{\ifmmode \tilde{}\else \~{}\fi{}}}$\ensuremath{\lesssim}700 GeV for tan\ensuremath{\beta}\ensuremath{\gtrsim}10 assuming the experiment will not discard the standard model result within its 2\ensuremath{\sigma} uncertainty limit. For smaller tan\ensuremath{\beta}, the SUSY reach of E821 will still be considerable. Further, if no effect within the 2\ensuremath{\sigma} limit of the standard model value is seen, then large tan\ensuremath{\beta} scenarios will be severely constrained within the current naturalness criterion, i.e., ${\mathit{m}}_{0}$,${\mathit{m}}_{\mathit{g}\mathrm{\ifmmode \tilde{}\else \~{}\fi{}}}$\ensuremath{\lesssim}1 TeV. \textcopyright{} 1996 The American Physical Society.
Binding of pyruvate dehydrogenase to the core of the human pyruvate dehydrogenase complex

In human (h) pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC) the pyruvate dehydrogenase (E1) is bound to the E1-binding domain of dihydrolipoamide acetyltransferase (E2). The C-terminal surface of the E1β subunit was scanned for the negatively charged residues involved in binding with E2. βD289 of hE1 interacts with K276 of hE2 in a manner similar to the corresponding interaction in Bacillus stearothermophilus PDC. In contrast to bacterial E1β, the C-terminal residue of the hE1β does not participate in the binding with positively charged residues of hE2. This latter finding shows species specificity in the interaction between hE1β and hE2 in PDC.
Chromosomal aneuploidy precedes morphological changes and supports multifocality in head and neck lesions.

Objective To identify chromosome changes associated with the transformation of dysplastic lesions and to verify evidence for multifocality in synchronous premalignant lesions associated with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Study Design Chromosomal aneuploidy was evaluated in sections of formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues from 16 patients with HNSCC, including sites with normal squamous mucosa, dysplasia (low- and high-grade), and invasive tumor. Methods A panel of 6 centromeric probes (chromosomes 1, 3, 7, 8, 9, and 17) was analyzed in dual-color fluorescence in situ hybridization assays, using matched hematoxylin–eosin-stained sections for histologic correlation. Results Imbalances for most of the targets tested were found in 20 of 24 invasive carcinoma sites, mainly represented by gain in copy number per cell. However, cell populations with chromosome losses and gains in multimodal patterns were concomitantly observed in a number of tumors, indicating a high degree of chromosome instability. The detection of chromosomal aneuploidy precedes the malignant transformation as indicated by findings of monosomy and trisomy in normal squamous mucosa, and in low-grade and high-grade dysplasia sites. Loss of chromosomes 3 and 17 prevailed in low-grade dysplasias, and gain of chromosomes 7 and 8 were prevalent in high-grade dysplasias. Synchronous low-grade and high-grade dysplastic lesions displayed discordant molecular signatures, suggesting a multifocal origin. Conclusions The interphase fluorescence in-situ hybridization (FISH) assay with centromeric may detect early changes in the progression of dyplastic epithelia to invasive carcinoma and supports the field cancerization theory of multifocality.
Diazepam and Meperidine on Arterial Blood Gases in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Arterial blood gases were not significantly altered by 0.15 mg/kg intravenous dose of diazepam in patients with chronic obstructive lung disease. The PalphaO-2 was significantly reduced and the P-alphaCO-2 increased after administration of 1.5 mg/kg meperidine intravenously and the combination of 1.5 mg/kg meperidine with 0.15 mg/kg diazepam. Diazepam did not, however, significantly increase the ventilatory depression induced by meperidine. Therefore, 0.15 mg/kg diazepam intravenously causes no ventilatory depression by meperidine in patients with chronic obstructive lung diseases.
Radial Mechanical Properties of Single‐Walled Boron Nitride Nanotubes

The radial mechanical properties of single-walled boron nitride nanotubes (SW-BNNTs) are investigated by atomic force microscopy. Nanomechanical measurements reveal the radial deformation of individual SW-BNNTs in both elastic and plastic regimes. The measured effective radial elastic moduli of SW-BNNTs are found to follow a decreasing trend with an increase in tube diameter, ranging from 40.78 to 1.85 GPa for tube diameters of 0.58 to 2.38 nm. The results show that SW-BNNTs have relatively lower effective radial elastic moduli than single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). The axially strong, but radially supple characteristics suggest that SW-BNNTs may be superior to SWCNTs as reinforcing additives for nanocomposite applications.
Dehydromerodesmosine and merodesmosine in elastin

Summary Elastin of bovine ligamentum nuchae was prepared without the use of hot alkali and subsequently reduced either with 3[H]NaBH4 or 3[H]NaBD4. Reduction with NaBD4 permitted the measurement of the ratio of merodesmosine to dehydromerodesmosine in natural elastin, and in this case was found to be approximately one. Thus in ligamentum elastin, untreated with hot alkali and/or borohydride, two kinds of Schiff base crosslinks, dehydrolysinonorleucine and dehydromerodesmosine, have been shown to occur as such. They also occur naturally in the respective forms of their reduced derivatives, lysinonorleucine and merodesmosine.