cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Single-particle cryo-EM of the ryanodine receptor channel in an aqueous environment

Ryanodine receptors (RyRs) are tetrameric ligand-gated Ca2+ release channels that are responsible for the increase of cytosolic Ca2+ concentration leading to muscle contraction. Our current understanding of RyR channel gating and regulation is greatly limited due to the lack of a high-resolution structure of the channel protein. The enormous size and unwieldy shape of Ca2+ release channels make X-ray or NMR methods difficult to apply for high-resolution structural analysis of the full-length functional channel. Single-particle electron cryo-microscopy (cryo-EM) is one of the only effective techniques for the study of such a large integral membrane protein and its molecular interactions. Despite recent developments in cryo-EM technologies and break-through single-particle cryo-EM studies of ion channels, cryospecimen preparation, particularly the presence of detergent in the buffer, remains the main impediment to obtaining atomic-resolution structures of ion channels and a multitude of other integral membrane protein complexes. In this review we will discuss properties of several detergents that have been successfully utilized in cryo-EM studies of ion channels and the emergence of the detergent alternative amphipol to stabilize ion channels for structure-function characterization. Future structural studies of challenging specimen like ion channels are likely to be facilitated by cryo-EM amenable detergents or alternative surfactants.
Effects of red nucleus inactivation on burst discharge in turtle cerebellum in vitro: evidence for positive feedback

1. In behaving animals the red nucleus produces sustained action potential discharge during movements of the limbs. These bursts are thought to encode parameters of movement and thereby represent motor commands. Similar bursts can be recorded in the in vitro brain stem-cerebellum from the turtle. In this preparation, sustained discharge of red nucleus neurons was postulated to be generated by N-methyl-D-aspartate-mediated cellular mechanisms acting in combination with positive feedback in a recurrent cerebellorubral network. The present study was designed to test this positive feedback hypothesis. During recording of sustained discharge in the deep cerebellar nuclei and cortex, the red nucleus was reversibly inactivated by microinjection. The positive feedback hypothesis would be supported if activity in the cerebellum was attenuated by inactivation of the red nucleus. A nonrecurrent source of excitation would have to be postulated if cerebellar activity was unaffected. 2. Extracellular single-unit recordings were made from neurons in the deep cerebellar nuclei, cerebellar cortex, and vestibular nuclei. Burst discharges were evoked by brief electrical stimuli applied to the spinal cord that activated sensory structures. During inactivation of the red nucleus, sensory projections to the cerebellum that may evoke burst discharge were unaffected. Pressure microinjections of cobalt, lidocaine, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), or 6-cyano-7-nitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione (CNQX) were used to reversibly inactivate the red nucleus. Saline injections were also tested. 3. Sustained discharge of all neurons recorded in the lateral cerebellar nucleus was greatly attenuated or blocked completely by injection of the pharmacological agents into the red nucleus. These effects were reversible. Of the recordings in the cerebellar cortex, 63% of these were blocked. All four compounds tested were effective blockers of the bursts, although the effects of GABA were less potent than the others. Saline injections into the red nucleus showed no effect. Burst discharges of single units recorded in either the medial cerebellar nucleus or the vestibular complex, which do not receive input from the red nucleus, showed no effect of red nucleus inactivation. 4. The results showed that sustained discharge in the cerebellum was significantly attenuated by inactivation of the red nucleus even though sensory input that may trigger the bursts was intact. These data support the hypothesis that sustained discharge in the cerebellorubral circuit is generated by a distributed neuronal network that uses positive feedback. The results have implications for mechanisms underlying normal brain function and some motor disorders.
Utilizing Virtual Reality for Simulating the Auditory Perception In Architectural Designed Spaces

Rapid development in computer technology has triggered the emergence of new methods and techniques for room acoustics simulations. However, the auditory representation of a simulated space is usually given less attention than the visual representation. This paper demonstrates an approach for simulating the auditory perception in architectural spaces based on auralization, utilizing an immersive virtual computer-generated environment. Detail steps in this approach are provided including the process to transform two-dimensional drawings into room acoustics simulation. Change in the auditory perceptions in an architectural space with variety of design implementations, were recognized. Spatial perception of distance and orientation were explored while architectural elements and acoustical properties of the surfaces were changed with the goal to obtain the anticipated room acoustics quality. While multidimensional virtual environment provides the ability to investigate the visual and auditory perception simultaneously, this approach provides the ability to present computer generated spaces, synthesize auditory events and have users experiencing the architectural design impact. Evaluation of the room acoustics, given the architectural design options can be done at any stage of the design process.
Energy Efficiency as an Enabler of Energy Access for All for Sustainable Development

Energy efficiency (using advanced technologies to provide better quality energy services with the same or a lesser amount of energy) and energy access (increasing the consumption of modern energy services) are sometimes seen as topics incompatible with each other. As a result, energy efficiency has largely been ignored as countries sought to achieve greater energy access. This paper will dispel this misconception by highlighting areas where energy efficiency is an enabler of energy access. In doing so, it will also highlight the importance of the availability, accessibility, and affordability of clean and efficient products. The so-called “3-A’s” is critical because the problem is not a lack of solutions, but making them widely available and affordable in the most underserved and impoverished regions of the world. It is hoped that a wide dissemination of best practices in energy efficiency and energy access will kick-start the the transformation towards sustainable development.
Respect for Statutory Text Versus ‘Blithe Unconcern’: A Reply to Professor Coverdale

In Tufts v. Commissioner, the Supreme Court in 1983 had concluded that relief from a nonrecourse liability on disposition of property should be reflected in the seller's amount realized, even if the value of the property had dropped below the principal amount of the obligation. Professor Coverdale quite reasonably complained that the statutory definition of amount realized makes no mention of liabilities and that, not quite so reasonably, commentators had shown blithe unconcern about statutory language. A great fan of adhering to statutory language, the author nevertheless argues that interpreters must take into account judicial developments, in this case beginning with Crane v. Commissioner (1947), in arriving at any reasonable understanding of statutory language.
Physiological responses to spirometer load.

Abstract(6 figures)A transient time-dependent increase in tidal volume (TV) and respiratory rate has been observed as a spirometric loading effect in experiments on 22 decerebrate cats. Respiration was recorded via the impedance pneumograph throughout the entire experiment while tidal volume was measured at intervals of 10–60 min on a spirometer. A total of 233 spirograms was recorded. The mean control tidal volume was 14 ml/kg, followed by an average increase of 30 %, 43 %, 51 %, and 64 % at 30, 60, 90, and 120 sec on the spirometer respectively. Spirometric respiratory rate also increased and as a result instantaneous minute volumes (MV) showed increases up to nearly 400 % of control. Maximal effects occurred within 80 sec reflecting a sequential combination of reflex (via vagal afferents) and chemical (increased CO2) factors reaching a new equilibrium. We also noted a spirometric regularization of previously irregular or periodic (Biot's) breathing. It is apparent that the spirometer introduces small a...
Chemistry of In(C5H5)3 and Some Heteroleptic Organoindium(III) Derivatives. Crystal and Molecular Structures of In(C5H5)3, (C5H5)3In·PPh3, and (Me3CCH2)2In(C5H5)

Pure In(C5H5)3 has been prepared in high yields from InCl3 and Li(C5H5) in THF solution with the absence of external heating. Neat In(C5H5)3 readily decomposes at 150 °C to form In(C5H5)(s) and cyclopentadiene as the primary products whereas a benzene suspension decomposes under refluxing conditions. In(C5H5)3 forms an isolable 1:1 adduct with PPh3 but NMe3, THF, and Et2O do not form stable adducts. Ligand redistribution reactions with InR3 (R = Me and CH2CMe3) in THF solution provided R2In(C5H5) and RIn(C5H5)2. These heteroleptic organoindium(III) compounds have been isolated as analytically pure crystalline solids, but in THF solution they form equilibrium mixtures of the adducts of InR3, R2In(C5H5), RIn(C5H5)2, and In(C5H5)3, as appropriate. Crystals of [In(C5H5)3]n, (C5H5)3In·PPh3, and [(Me3CCH2)2In(C5H5)]n were characterized by single-crystal X-ray structural studies.
Comparison of 2 Methods of Local Anesthetic-Based Injection as Part of a Multimodal Approach to Pain Management After Total Knee Arthroplasty.

Background:It is estimated that up to 50% of patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) receive suboptimal postoperative pain management.Methods:In a retrospective study, 224 patients who underwent TKA between January 1, 2011, and September 30, 2012, were identified by surgical records for 2 surgeons at Community Medical Center in Missoula, Montana. Patient records were reviewed and data collected for patient hospital length of stay (LOS), postoperative opioid use, opioid-associated adverse events, and nonopioid analgesic use. Data were analyzed for differences in outcomes between patients who received an intraoperative intra-articular (IOIA) injection followed by a postoperative infusion (0.25%-0.5% bupivacaine) or an intraoperative periarticular (IOPA) injection (ropivacaine, ketorolac, epinephrine, and clonidine) for sustained analgesia after TKA.Results:Patients who received an IOPA injection had a statistically significant decrease in hospital LOS (67.0 vs 75.9 hours; P = .027) and postoperati...
Perseveration in septal cats

Lesioned Ss, deficient at passive avoidance, also extinguished more slowly when punished for making an active-avoidance response and required more training to reverse a learned position-habit.
"Exercise Science" or "Sports Science":Understanding on Physical Capacity Assessment in Elite Athletes

The understanding and distinguishing on exercise science and sports science is the precondition to carry out all the related work.In recent years,along with exercise and sport science research practice and theory update,the two most basic concepts are gradually relatively independent and clear in the world.In which,we still exist many theoretical misunderstandings and mistakes in practice.At present,it is necessary to make timely carding and concision on exercise science and sports science.For many years' Olympic Science and Technology Research of related experience case,taking elite athletes' function evaluation and monitoring as clue,with functional evaluation of athletes in needing analysis of several important issues related to content,this paper analyzes the main difference of exercise science and sports science,and also explains the relationship,related to the area of inadequate training and overtraining.The main purpose is to make discussion on related issue of 17 years' Olympic Science and Technology Research of elite athletes' function evaluation and effort to develop a noninvasive,rapid,accurate function monitoring method.
Formal Measures of Dynamical Properties: Tipping Points

To help realize the potential of complex systems models we need new measures appropriate for capturing processes that exhibit feedback, nonlinearity, heterogeneity, and emergence. As part of a larger research project encompassing several categories of dynamical properties this paper provides formal and general definitions of tipping point-related phenomena. For each tipping concept this paper provides a probabilistic definition derived from a Markov model representation. We start with the basic features of Markov models and definitions of the foundational concepts of system dynamics. Then several tipping point-related concepts are described, defined, measured, and illustrated with a simplified graphical example. The paper finishes with several branches of future work involving new measures for complex systems and the fusion of research domains.
The congenitally dilated prostatic utricle.

Abstract A case of utricular dilatation in a child with recurrent urinary tract infection and associated genitourinary anomalies is presented. The embryology of the utricle and the relationship of the dilated utricle to the mullerian duct regression factor are discussed. Clinical sequelae, diagnosis and management are outlined briefly.
Hepatitis C Treatment Delivery Mandates Optimizing Available Health Care Human Resources: A Case for Task Shifting

This Viewpoint describes how a shortage of health care workers providing treatment for hepatitis C hinders access to treatment, despite progress in drug efficacy and reductions in drug costs.
Summary and Future Work

The ARMS system was intended as an experiment in the application of explanation-based learning techniques to a real-world domain. As with any experiment, ARMS has raised many new issues that must yet be resolved. In this chapter we conclude our examination of the ARMS system with a discussion of its relation to other work, its extensibility, and directions for future research.
Vehicular information & communications technology (VICT) system

Many countries in the developing world are currently affected by crises and security threats, including growing rates of regional instability, the proliferation of illegal drugs and weapons, cross border migration and increases to organized crime. It follows that public safety organizations in developing countries are faced with increasingly volatile environments—sometimes in absence of resources that they direly need. Among these resources are modern technological and tactical tools that help to provide timely response to crises situations, aid in conflict prevention and support day-to-day management functions. To this end, the design and implementation of an integrated homogenous Vehicular Information and Communications Technology (VICT) system, which must be robust, resilient and secure, can be significant force multiplier.
Improving PAC Exploration Using the Median Of Means

We present the first application of the median of means in a PAC exploration algorithm for MDPs. Using the median of means allows us to significantly reduce the dependence of our bounds on the range of values that the value function can take, while introducing a dependence on the (potentially much smaller) variance of the Bellman operator. Additionally, our algorithm is the first algorithm with PAC bounds that can be applied to MDPs with unbounded rewards.
Day-ahead optimal scheduling of PV inverters and OLTC in distribution feeders

In this paper, we present a day-ahead optimal scheduling for reactive power of PV inverters and tap position of on-load tap changer (OLTC) in distribution network. We used a pattern search optimization algorithm based on the forecasted load demand and PVs active power generation. While the objective is to minimize the node voltage deviation and network losses, the maximum number of tap operation is maintained in a predefined limit. A modified IEEE 34 node test feeder is used to demonstrate the applicability and effectiveness of the proposed scheduling approach. A stochastic analysis is presented to show the performance of the proposed optimal scheduling in the presence of forecast errors of the PV generation and load demand.
Energy Efficient Reconfigurable Threshold Logic Circuit with Spintronic Devices

A Threshold Logic Gate (TLG) performs weighted summation of multiple binary inputs and compares the summation with a threshold. Different logic functions can be implemented by reconfiguring the weights and threshold of the same TLG circuit. This paper introduces a novel design of reconfigurable Spintronic Threshold Logic Gate (STLG), which employs spintronic weight devices to perform current-mode weighted summation of binary inputs, whereas, the low voltage fast switching spintronic threshold device carries out the threshold operation in an energy efficient manner. The proposed STLG operates at a small terminal voltage of 50 mV, resulting in ultra-low energy consumption. A bottom-up cross-layer simulation framework is developed to synthesize and map large scale digital logic functions to the proposed STLG circuits. The simulation results of ISCAS-85 benchmarks show that the proposed STLG based reconfigurable logic hardware can achieve two orders lower Energy-Delay Product (EDP) compared with state-of-the-art CMOS Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGA), and smaller EDP compared to large scale Memristive Threshold Logic (MTL) based FPGA. Moreover, the ultra-low programming energy of spintronic weight device also leads to three orders lower reconfiguration energy of STLG compared to MTL design.
Evidence that higher [CO2] increases tree growth sensitivity to temperature: a comparison of modern and paleo oaks

To test tree growth sensitivity to temperature under different ambient CO2 concentrations, we determined stem radial growth rates as they relate to variation in temperature during the last deglacial period, and compare these to modern tree growth rates as they relate to spatial variation in temperature across the modern species distributional range. Paleo oaks were sampled from Northern Missouri, USA and compared to a pollen-based, high-resolution paleo temperature reconstruction from Northern Illinois, USA. Growth data were from 53 paleo bur oak log cross sections collected in Missouri. These oaks were preserved in river and stream sediments and were radiocarbon-dated to a period of rapid climate change during the last deglaciation (10.5 and 13.3 cal kyr BP). Growth data from modern bur oaks were obtained from increment core collections paired with USDA Forest Service Forest Inventory and Analysis data collected across the Great Plains, Midwest, and Upper Great Lakes regions. For modern oaks growing at an average [CO2] of 330 ppm, growth sensitivity to temperature (i.e., the slope of growth rate versus temperature) was about twice that of paleo oaks growing at an average [CO2] of 230 ppm. These data help to confirm that leaf-level predictions that photosynthesis and thus growth will be more sensitive to temperature at higher [CO2] in mature trees-suggesting that tree growth forest productivity will be increasingly sensitive to temperature under projected global warming and high-[CO2] conditions.
Diabetic foot disorders: A clinical practice guideline

Foot ulcerations, infections, and Charcot neuropathic osteoarthropathy are three serious foot complications of diabetes mellitus that can too frequently lead to gangrene and lower limb amputation. Consequently, foot disorders are one of the leading causes of hospitalization for persons with diabetes and can account for expenditures in the billions of dollars annually in the U.S. alone. Although not all foot complications can be prevented, dramatic reductions in their frequency have been obtained through the implementation of a multidisciplinary team approach to patient management. Using this concept, the authors present a Clinical Practice Guideline for diabetic foot disorders based on currently available evidence. The underlying pathophysiology and treatment of diabetic foot ulcers, infections, and the diabetic Charcot foot are thoroughly reviewed. Although these guidelines cannot and should not dictate the standard of care for all affected patients, they are intended to provide evidencebased guidance for general patterns of practice. The goal of a major reduction in diabetic limb amputations is certainly possible if these concepts are embraced and incorporated into patient management protocols.
Commentary on Zirkel: Judicial Rulings Specific to FBAs or BIPs under the IDEA and Corollary State Laws--An Update.

The authors discuss the journal article by Perry Zirkel on legal action in regard to functional behavioral assessment (FBA) and behavior intervention plans (BIPs). They contend that the Zirkel arti...
Murine articular cartilage morphology and compositional quantification with high resolution cationic contrast-enhanced μCT.

Articular cartilage lines the load-bearing surfaces of long bones and undergoes compositional and structural degeneration during osteoarthritis progression. Contrast enhanced microcomputed tomography (μCT) is being applied to a variety of preclinical models, including the mouse, to map structural and compositional properties in 3-D. The thinness (˜30-50 μm) and high cellularity of mouse articular cartilage presents a significant imaging challenge. Our group previously showed that mouse articular cartilage and proteoglycan (PG) content can be assessed by μCT with the ioxagalate-based contrast agent Hexabrix, but the voxel size used (6 μm) was deemed to be barely adequate. The objective of the present study is to assess the utility of a novel contrast agent, CA4+, to quantify mouse articular cartilage morphology and composition with high resolution μCT imaging (3 μm voxels) and to compare the sensitivity of CA4+ and Hexabrix to detect between-group differences. While both contrast agents are iodine-based, Hexabrix is anionic and CA4+ is cationic so they interact differently with negatively charged PGs. With CA4+, a strong correlation was found between non-calcified articular cartilage thickness measurements made with histology and μCT (R2 = 0.72, p < 0.001). Cartilage degeneration - as assessed by loss in volume, thickness and PG content - was observed in 34-week old mice when compared to both 7- and 12-week old mice. High measurement precision was observed with CA4+, with the coefficient of variation after repositioning and re-imaging samples equaling 2.8%, 4.5%, 7.4% and 5.9% for attenuation, thickness, volume, and PG content, respectively. Use of CA4+ allowed increased sensitivity for assessing PG content compared to Hexabrix, but had no advantage for measurement of cartilage thickness or volume. This improvement in imaging should prove useful in preclinical studies of cartilage degeneration and regeneration. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved
Enhanced fatigue resistance of suppressed hysteresis in perovskite solar cells by an organic crosslinker

Abstract With record power conversion efficiencies of hybrid perovskite solar cells now exceeding 20% under laboratory conditions, improvements in stability of the cells under real-world working conditions are now key requirements for their commercial success. Here, we present a novel strategy to reduce penetration of humidity and oxygen into perovskite films via incorporation of a diammonium glycol. The two ammonium groups of this molecule allow it to serve as a crosslinker in the structure, bridging two unit cells within a crystallite or even across a grain boundary. In a planar heterojunction solar cell containing PCBM as an electron transport layer, the power conversion efficiency of the cell with ~0.1% diammonium glycol in the absorber layer was 13.96%, slightly exceeding that of the glycol-free device (13.53%). Most importantly, the glycol-free device exhibited the typical growth in hysteresis with performance degradation, but hysteresis remained suppressed in the device doped with diammonium glycol, even as its overall performance deteriorated. Futhermore, the chemical stability of the unpackaged device under continuous AM1.5 G illumination at ambient conditions was substantially improved relative to the glycol-free device. Formation of PbI2 was significantly suppressed, which could minimize release of toxic Pb ions.
Single and double-quantum multidimensional coherent spectroscopy using frequency combs

We present a novel experimental approach of multidimensional coherent spectroscopy using frequency combs. We demonstrate its capabilities for probing weak many-body interactions as well as its applications for rapid and high resolution chemical sensing.
Are Semiconducting Polymers Polymeric Semiconductors?: Polyaniline as an Example of “Conducting Polymers”

The general concepts of quasi-one-dimensional conducting polymers are introduced including the role of band theory, electron-phonon interactions, the Peierls ground state, and commensurability. The dominant defect states present upon doping, solitons, polarons and bipolarons, are discussed. Application of these concepts to polyaniline is made with emphasis on the mechanism for the insulator-to-metal transition.
Nonvascularized Autogenous Bone Grafts For Craniofacial Skeletal Augmentation And Replacement

Autogenous nonvascularized bone grafts play an important role in the reconstruction of complex craniomaxillofacial defects. Experimental animal data have demonstrated that grafts from membranous bone donor sites tend to undergo less resorption than grafts from endochondral donor sites, probably because of the different bony architecture of each of these types of grafts. Of all the potential donor sites, the harvest of bone graft from the calvarium is associated with the least overall morbidity. Surgeons should be aware of the biologic basis for the successful application of free autogenous bone grafts.
Medical Images in DICOM

Let me assume, my dear reader, that the time we used to wander in the land of VRs and DICOM objects has been well spent, and that you have a much better idea of how DICOM deals with medical data. This prepared you for the next important step in your voyage: looking at how DICOM works with medical images. Certainly, images possess some well-known properties (width, height, bits per pixel), which can be found in the DICOM Data Dictionary, and which DICOM encodes with explicit or implicit VRs, as you have already learned. But the most interesting image attribute is the image itself – the sequence of image pixel values – that DICOM stores in the standard (7FE0, 0010) Pixel Data tag, using either OB (for 1-byte pixel samples) or OW (for 2-byte pixel samples) encoding.
Institutions and the transformation of personal values. Are the traditional values of caring and service in jeopardy

Groups bring about changes in the values of their members in two main ways--through their organizational structures and through the identifications that individuals make with other group members. These two forces help to transform a member's personal values to the values of the group. In health care, it is widely believed that such a transformation is necessary to make health-care professionals more efficient in their jobs. However, the author suggests that this value transformation may be propelling health-care professionals away from the traditional mainstays of the profession--caring and service. To explore this idea, the author first discusses the relationship between individual values and group values. He then examines how value changes occur within a group by using two different examples of groups--the corporation (a good example of how organizational structure shapes the values of its members) and the mob (a good example of the role social identification plays in shaping the values of group members). The article concludes with an exploration of how values are transformed in a health-care setting and how this transformation may be negatively affecting the attitudes of health-care practitioners toward the goals of caring and compassion.
The EU and the Eurozone: Past, Present, and Future

The EU is a unique economic and political partnership between 27 democratic European countries. It has accomplished a great deal in promoting peace, prosperity, justice, freedom, solidarity, and participatory democracy for its 498 million citizens. The eurozone showcases the achievement of its deeper monetary integration. This paper aims at addressing the following topics: How has the EU developed? How does it work? How are the institutions structured and who makes the decisions? How does it pursue external economic policies? How does it promote internal economic and social integration? How has it deepened monetary integration through the creation of the eurozone? What are the shortcomings in the agreement on the Economic and Monetary Union? What are the current crises facing the EU, and the eurozone in particular? Are there legal obstacles in providing financial aid to Greece? What are the reform proposals aimed at strengthening the eurozone and avoiding future financial crises? And what are the future prospects of the EU and the eurozone?
Storage, seasonality, and women’s labor in northern Illinois: Using archaeological pollen analysis to investigate protohistory:

This article introduces new data to explorations of protohistoric lifeways and expands understandings of storage, seasonal practices, and women’s labor. Pollen analysis was conducted on sediment sa...
Impact of hepatitis C treatment on pain intensity, prescription opioid use and arthritis.

OBJECTIVE To assess the impact of direct acting anti-viral (DAA) therapy for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection on changes in pain intensity and prescription opioid use among Veterans. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study of Veterans with HCV who were seen in a rheumatology clinic at least once while receiving DAA therapy between January 1, 2010 and December 31st 2016. Demographic characteristics, HCV status, HCV treatment characteristics, numeric rating scale (NRS) pain scores and opioid prescription data were extracted from the electronic medical record. Pain scores were averaged over 6 months prior to HCV treatment and 6 months after completion of treatment. Prescription opioid dose was converted to a morphine equivalent daily dose (MEDD) and averaged across the two 6-month intervals. Generalized estimating equations were used to model the change in average pain and MEDD from pre- to post-HCV treatment. Effect size was assessed using Cohen's d. RESULTS A total of 121 Veterans, 91% male with average age of 59 were included. Average pre-treatment pain was 4.4 (SD 2.4). The average reduction in pain scores was 0.6 points (P = 0.02, Cohen's d = 0.22) after treatment. Among 67 patients prescribed chronic opioid therapy at baseline, average pre-treatment MEDD was 52.4 mg (SD = 62.5 mg) and post-DAA treatment average MEDD was 49.5 mg (SD = 69.3 mg), representing a decrease by 2.9 mg (P < 0.01, Cohen's d = 0.14). Opioid dose reduction was seen in 43/67 patients and 12 patients discontinued opioids entirely. CONCLUSION Among US Veterans, subjective pain scores had modest improvement and opioid prescriptions were mildly reduced following treatment with DAA.
Postschool Outcomes of Youths with Deafblindness in the United States: Building Further Understandings for Future Practice:

Introduction:This study examines the postschool outcomes for youths with deafblindness, aged 18–30 years, in the areas of independent living, employment, and friendships.Methods:Survey data were co...
FLT3 TKI Are Differentially Affected By Both Plasma Binding and Stromal Survival Factors

Abstract The FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) is the most frequently mutated gene in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). As such it represents an attractive target for tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) for the treatment of AML, a number of which have entered clinical trials. However, to date, these trials have demonstrated limited clinical efficacy. Evidence indicates that failure to achieved adequate inhibitory activity against FLT3, at least partially as a result of plasma protein binding, as well as survival factors provided by stroma, are among the reasons for the limited efficacy of FLT3 TKI. In this study we have characterized the effects of plasma binding and stromal survival factors on TTT-3002, a novel TKI that has demonstrated potent inhibition of the internal tandem duplication (FLT3-ITD) as well as a large panel of clinically described kinase mutants (FLT3-KD), and compared it to the effects these same conditions have on other FLT3 TKI. Using plasma from pediatric/young adult patients of a variety of ages (n = 24, median 7.2 years, 4.1-36.9 years), the impact of human plasma binding on the activity of TTT-3002 against FLT3-ITD dependent proliferation. 50% human plasma results in a moderate decrease in activity of TTT-3002 (IC50 45.2 nM in human plasma, 2.4 nM in media with 10% FCS). This is a markedly smaller shift than several TKIs currently or previously in clinical trials including sorafenib, CEP-701, PKC-412, and AC-220 (50 to >500-fold increase in IC50). The data demonstrate a clear linear relationship between plasma alpha-1 acidglycoprotein (AGP), an acute-phase reactant, and fold-increase in IC50 of TTT-3002 (1.7 fold-increase per 10 mg/dL AGP). The data also demonstrate a wide variability in patient plasma AGP concentration that is dependent upon age, but also appears to be significantly impacted by position in treatment (median 117 mg/dL, 58-354 mg/dL). Plasma AGP strongly inhibits several FLT3 inhibitors including CEP-701 and PKC-412 (>100-fold increase in IC50); whereas other FLT3 inhibitors such as sorafenib and AC-220 are inhibited by human plasma in an AGP-independent manner. These data indicate the presence of several human plasma proteins whose binding leads to drug inhibition that TTT-3002 is nonetheless resistant to, in comparison to other clinically relevant FLT3 inhibitors. The identification of these proteins is ongoing. Using primary human bone marrow stromal cell co-culture with two FLT3-ITD cell lines increases the IC50 of TTT-3002 but to a lower extent than that of AC-220 (MV4-11: 1.1-1.9 fold versus 2.3-2.7 fold, MOLM-14: 2.2-2.3 fold versus 3.5-3.6 fold). The data are consistent across stromal cells cultured from several different pediatric patients (n = 5). These data suggest that TTT-3002 may be more resistant to some of the inhibitory effects that have led to disappointing results with other similar FLT3-targeted TKIs. As such, TTT-3002 represents an appealing candidate for clinical studies. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
A Sensing Microsystem for High Resolution Pressure Gradient Measurement in Core-Flood Experiments

Investigating the permeability and porosity of geological samples is a routine element of geological studies, and of particular interest to the oil and gas industry. Core-flood experiments are commonly performed on rock samples to measure transport characteristics in the laboratory. This paper reports the design and implementation of a high resolution distributed pressure measurement system for core-flood experiments. A series of microfabricated pressure sensors are embedded in bolts housed within the pressurized polymer sheath that encases the rock core. A feedthrough technology has been developed to provide lead transfer between the sensors and system electronics across a 230-bar pressure difference. The system has been successfully benchtop tested with fluids such as synthetic oil and/or gas. Pressure measurements were recorded over a dynamic range of 20 bar with a resolution as small as 0.3 mbar.
What does it mean to be a Hispanic-Serving Institution? Listening to the Latina/o/x voices of students

The purpose of this study is to examine what the Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) designation means to Hispanic college students at a Research One four-year university. This qualitative case stud...
Pulmonary Embolism in the Intensive Care Unit: Therapy in Subpopulations

The optimal management of a submassive or massive pulmonary embolism (PE) during pregnancy is unclear because of a lack of large clinical trials. Evaluation of the patient who may be a candidate for more aggressive therapy includes the use of biomarkers and echocardiogram for risk stratification. PE Response teams (PERTs) have gained increasing acceptance by the medical community and are being implemented in hospitals in the United States and worldwide. PERTs bring together a team of specialists from different disciplines to enhance decision-making in the patient with acute submassive and massive PE.
Last-Mile Connectivity Deployments in the Global South: An Exploratory Study of the Sustainability of New Business Models

Internet access initiatives at the community level are exploring ways of driving down the costs of deploying and operating network infrastructure through the use of innovative technologies and business models. This paper presents empirical data on four case studies of such Internet connectivity deployments in the Global South: the Gram Marg Project, that deploys a hybrid of TV White Spaces and unlicensed Wi-Fi in the 5.8 GHz spectrum band in 25 villages in rural India, the Internet Policy Observatory Pakistan’s ‘Internet Houses’ initiative that connects 36 villages in rural Balochistan using Fiber and Satellite, Vanu Rwanda’s small-scale GSM architecture model deployed at 31 sites in rural Rwanda that provides public Wi-Fi hotspots with access to zero-rated content at some sites in addition to providing basic 2G connectivity and LiFi LED, which uses Light Fidelity technology in villages on the Ivory Coast. These deployments have adopted different ways of financing and raising revenue, in addition to their use of innovative technologies. Further, some of these initiatives provide Internet access at community anchor institutions, and offer a range of complementary products in addition to Internet connectivity. Using in-depth interviews with the organizations deploying these projects, this paper develops a framework to comparatively assess these last-mile connectivity deployments. It then uses empirical, available data on their cost, reach, revenue and funding to determine cost effectiveness across models and comment on their sustainability.
Tree Preference and Temporal Activity Patterns for a Native Ant Community in an Urbanized California Woodland

Anthropogenic disturbances, including land use change and exotic species, can alter the diversity and dynamics of ant communities. To examine foraging behavior in an urbanized habitat in northern California, we surveyed the presence of 9 ant species on 876 trees across 4 seasons during both day and night in a 9.5-hectare urbanized oak-exotic woodland. Ants were more likely to be observed on native, evergreen trees, suggesting that native evergreen species may help maintain ant diversity. Species showed clear patterns of temporal partitioning of foraging activity. Ant species varied in their use of native evergreen Quercus agrifolia trees across season and day/night axes. Of the 3 ant species most frequently observed, Camponotus semitestaceus was most active during spring and summer nights, Formica moki was most active during spring and summer days, and Prenolepis imparis was most active during both day and night during fall and winter. Liometopum occidentale was the second most active species during summer day and night, and winter day. Our findings demonstrate that an oak-exotic urban woodland in Northern California was able to maintain a native ant community, and strong temporal partitioning within that community.
Pivoting in a Pandemic: Supporting STEM Teachers' Learning through Online Professional Learning during the Museum Closure

Drawing on data from STEM teacher education programs collected during museum closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this article examines the shifts that a large natural history museum made in educational programming. We explore three questions; _who participated; the nature of participants’ experiences with programming; and what we learned as an education department within and across teacher education programs_ by drawing on systematically collected quantitative and qualitative data (attendance, surveys, focus groups, and interviews). We draw upon case study data to delve into our online teacher professional learning offerings as an example, and then ground it within data and findings from our other teacher education programs at the museum offered during closure. We conclude by identifying implications for developing ongoing work with teachers going forward. Three central implications were: 1) continue to offer remote teacher professional learning sessions, 2) develop a shared vision of good science teaching online, and 3) model pedagogy that supports this shared vision. During a time of extreme uncertainty and tragedy, this article seeks to document and capture the innovative approaches developed to help support teachers, continue educational efforts, strive to act as an agent of change, as well as address challenges that emerged in the move to remote.
BLT humanized mice as a small animal model of HIV infection

Humanized mice are valuable models for the research and development of vaccine strategies and therapeutic interventions to control or eradicate HIV. The BLT humanized mouse model is particularly promising because the combination of transplantation of human fetal pluripotent hematopoietic stem cells with surgical engraftment of human fetal thymic tissue results in improved T cell reconstitution, maturation, and selection. To date, the BLT humanized mouse model has been used to study many aspects of HIV infection including prevention, mucosal transmission, HIV-specific innate and adaptive immunity, viral latency, and novel antiretroviral and immune-based therapies for suppression and reservoir eradication. Here we describe recent advances and applications of the BLT humanized mouse model of HIV infection and discuss opportunities to further improve this valuable small animal model.
Multispectral techniques for general geological surveys evaluation of a four-band photographic system

A general geological survey at 1:62,500 scale of the well exposed rocks of the White Mountains and the adjacent volcanic desert plateau is reported. The tuffs, granites, sedimentary rocks and metavolcanic rocks in this arid region are varicolored and conventional black and white aerial photographs have been a useful mapping aid. A large number of true color and false color aerial photographs and multispectral viewer screen images of the study area are evaluated in order to consider what imagery is the most useful for distinguishing rock types. Photographs of true color film are judged the most useful for recognizing geographic locations.
The International Conflict Behavior of Dictatorships from an Audience Cost Perspective

In this study, I look at the consequences of variations in authoritarian elite coalitions for international conflict behavior, using Fearon's audience cost theory to frame my argument. In dictatorships, the elite coalition is the group that has the power to oust the dictator. Because of this, the coalition plays the role of the domestic audience. Just as voters can make democratic leaders pay for failing to follow through with their commitments, so can the elite coalition in authoritarian regimes. In personalist regimes the elite coalition is the personalist clique, in military regimes it is the military junta, and in single party regimes it is the party cadre. Differences in the institutional nature of the elite coalition affect the ability of the coalition to impose costs upon the leader. Leaders face higher costs for reneging on commitments in regimes in which the elite coalition can more effectively constrain the leader's behavior. In single party and military dictatorships, leaders confront an elite coalition that is unified by a pre-existing party or military. In these regimes, being part of unifying institution increases the ability of the elite coalition to collectively constrain the actions of the dictator. Personalist dictators face a different scenario. There is no pre-existing institution that serves to unify elites, leaving personalist dictators to rule relatively unconstrained. In addition, in military regimes, the military elite have greater access to the security apparatus than do elites in other forms of dictatorship. This increases their ability to stage a coup and thereby impose costs on the military dictator for poor leadership. Due to institutional differences in the nature of the elite coalition, I argue that personalist dictatorships should be the least able to generate audience costs, followed by single party regimes, and lastly military regimes. I also add to Fearon's theory and posit that audience costs are only effective as a signal of commitment when the target regime can correctly identify the signal. Differences in the nature of the elite coalition affect the extent to which leaders correctly identify signals. I argue that personalist leaders tend to receive lower quality intelligence than do leaders in military or single party regimes and as a result. As a result, personalist leaders should be more likely to ignore what are credible threats. To test my predictions, I use quantitative tests. I look at whether or not target states choose to reciprocate initiators' challenges. States that are able to generate high audience costs should yield low rates of reciprocation from their targets. I find substantial support for my argument.
Kinetics and stereocontrol of phenylalanine N‐carboxyanhydride polymerizations

L-, D-, and various D,L-phenylalanine N-carboxyanhydrides (NCA's) were polymerized with benzylamine and various concentrations of N-methylbenzylamine, respectively, in N,N-diethylformamide at 25°C. Three kinetic stages were observed for all systems: a fast “initiation” stage (I) followed by a slower stage (II) and a faster pseudo-first order propagation stage (III). The initiation rate is higher for N-methylbenzylamine than for benzylamine. The propagation rate constants, kpL, of the stage II polymerization of the L-monomer are independent of initiator type and concentration, whereas the corresponding stage III rate constants vary with the initial monomer/initiator ratio. For each propagation stage, the ratios of rate constants, kpD,L/kpL and kpD,L/kpD, respectively follow the pattern predicted by the absence of crossover reactions. Molar masses calculated from monomer conversion are higher than those determined from amine end group concentration for N-methylbenzylamine initiated polymerizations, but lower for benzylamine initiated ones.
Finding it on Google, finding it on del.icio.us.

We consider search engines and collaborative tagging systems from the perspective of resource discovery and re-finding on the Web. We performed repeated searches over nine-months on Google and del.icio.us for web pages related to three topics selected to have different dynamic characteristics. The results show differences in the resources they provide to the searcher. The resources tagged on del.icio.us differ strongly from the top results returned by Google. The results also suggest the changes in the most recently tagged web pages may be associated with the level of activity in user communities and, indirectly, with external events.
Stimulus as a Random Factor in Analysis of Variance: Increasing the Generalizability of Findings.

All too often inadequate experimental designs and/or faulty statistical analyses preclude generalization of findings. The authors of this paper discuss the need, in designing studies having educational variables, to give more attention to recognizing the universe of generalization and to incorporating into the design a variable that represents this universe. They further recommend that data analytic techniques, in turn, treat the levels of this variable as randomly selected from the universe.