cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Evolving Rewards to Automate Reinforcement Learning

Many continuous control tasks have easily formulated objectives, yet using them directly as a reward in reinforcement learning (RL) leads to suboptimal policies. Therefore, many classical control tasks guide RL training using complex rewards, which require tedious hand-tuning. We automate the reward search with AutoRL, an evolutionary layer over standard RL that treats reward tuning as hyperparameter optimization and trains a population of RL agents to find a reward that maximizes the task objective. AutoRL, evaluated on four Mujoco continuous control tasks over two RL algorithms, shows improvements over baselines, with the the biggest uplift for more complex tasks. The video can be found at: \url{this https URL}.
Optimized illumination for high-throughput ptychography

As a scanning version of coherent diffraction imaging (CDI), X-ray ptychography has become a popular and very successful method for high-resolution quantitative imaging of extended specimens. The requirements of mostly coherent illumination and the scanning mechanism limit the throughput of ptychographic imaging. In this paper, we will introduce the methods we use at the Advanced Photon Source (APS) to achieve highthroughput ptychography by optimizing the parameters of the illumination beam. One work we have done is increasing the illumination flux by using a double-multilayer monochromator (DMM) optics with about 0.8% bandwidth. Compared with our double-crystal monochromator (DCM) optics with 0.01% bandwidth, this DMM optics provides around 20 times more flux. A multi-wavelength reconstruction method has been implemented to deal with the consequential degraded temporal coherence from such an illumination to ensure high-quality reconstruction. In the other work, we adopt a novel use of at-top focusing optics to generate a at-top beam with the diameter of about 1.5 μm on the focal plane. The better uniformity of the probe and the large beam size allow one to significantly increase the step size in ptychography scans and thereby the imaging efficiency.
Subclinical CMV viremia is associated with increased nosocomial infections and prolonged hospitalization in patients with systemic autoimmune diseases

Abstract Objective Subclinical cytomegalovirus (CMV) viremia has been associated with other infections, prolonged hospitalization, and mortality in select immunosuppressed populations. We examined the incidence and outcomes of subclinical CMV viremia in hospitalized patients with systemic autoimmune diseases (AD) [systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis (AAV)] using a highly sensitive CMV assay. Methods Prospectively collected samples were obtained from AD hospitalized patients at study entry with a second sample collected 1 week later or at hospital discharge. Controls included age- and gender- matched inpatients without AD and outpatients with AD. All samples were tested in batch using the Abbott RealTime CMV for investigational use assay (RT assay), with a LLOD (LLOQ) at 21 IU/mL (32 IU/mL). Results Twenty-three inpatients (10 SLE, 8 AAV, 5 controls), and 31 outpatient controls were recruited. Subclinical CMV viremia was found in 61% (11/18) of inpatient AD subjects, 3% (1/31) of outpatient AD subjects, and in none of the five inpatient controls (p Conclusion Over one-half of hospitalized AD patients in our cohort had detectable CMV viremia, which was associated with increased length of hospital stay and nosocomial infections. These data suggest that further study of the immunomodulatory effects of subclinical CMV viremia in AD is warranted.
Promoting the Affordability of Medical Education to Groups Underrepresented in the Profession: The Other Side of the Equation

Increasing the racial and socioeconomic diversity of the physician workforce requires revising admissions standards, providing financial education, and developing programs to expose high school students to health care fields.
Expression Analysis of Cnidarian-Specific Neuropeptides in a Sea Anemone Unveils an Apical-Organ-Associated Nerve Net That Disintegrates at Metamorphosis.

Neuropeptides are ancient neuronal signaling molecules that have diversified across Cnidaria (e.g. jellyfish, corals and sea anemones) and its sister group Bilateria (e.g. vertebrates, insects and worms). Over the course of neuropeptide evolution emerged lineage-specific neuropeptides, but their roles in the evolution and diversification of nervous system function remain enigmatic particularly in Cnidaria. As a step towards filling in this knowledge gap, we investigated the expression pattern of a cnidarian-specific neuropeptide – RPamide – during the development of the starlet sea anemone Nematostella vectensis, using in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry. We show that RPamide precursor transcripts first occur during gastrulation in scattered epithelial cells of the aboral ectoderm. These RPamide-positive epithelial cells exhibit a spindle-shaped, sensory-cell-like morphology and extend basal neuronal processes that form a nerve net in the aboral ectoderm of the free-swimming planula larva. At the aboral end, RPamide-positive sensory cells become integrated into the developing apical organ that forms a bundle of long cilia referred to as the apical tuft. Later during planula development, RPamide expression becomes evident in sensory cells in the oral ectoderm of the body column and pharynx, and in the developing endodermal nervous system. At metamorphosis into a polyp, the RPamide-positive sensory nerve net in the aboral ectoderm degenerates by apoptosis, and RPamide expression begins in ectodermal sensory cells of growing oral tentacles. In addition, we find that the expression pattern of RPamide in planulae differs from that of conserved neuropeptides that are shared across Cnidaria, indicative of distinct functions. Our results not only provide the anatomical framework necessary to analyze the function of the cnidarian-specific neuropeptides in future studies, but also reveal previously unrecognized features of the sea anemone nervous system – the apical organ neurons of the planula larva, and metamorphosis-associated reorganization of the ectodermal nervous system.
Virtual Permitting Framework for Off-site Construction Case Study: A Case Study of the State of Florida

The rising calls to supply more housing units in the United States real estate market have hit the record in the post-recession era. This pressure has led the investor in the AEC industry to think about alternative non-conventional ways to improve the quality, productivity and labor shortage. The growing business of adopting off-site construction has currently been rising. This new delivery method has helped to control the quality, quantity, and time. However, the off-site construction schedule can be shortened, and the building can be delivered faster by improving the permitting approval process. The current construction permitting process in the U.S is tending to be bureaucratic and not productive. Nevertheless, a growing number of Building Authorities are looking for a better way to boost the productivity of issuing the construction permit. Some of the Building Authorities have adopted online permitting and less paper policy. This paper reviews the barriers and challenges facing off-site construction permitting in the US. The study discusses the incorporation of Building Information Modeling (BIM) in the workflow of the manufactured building permitting. Moreover, the paper presents a Virtual Permitting concept to optimize the current permitting process for off-site construction projects.
The Use of the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Model for Corrections Officers: Reducing Incidents within a County Jail:

This study presents an adaptation of the Crisis Intervention Team Model (CIT) to a jail setting. Pre-post surveys and interviews assessed changes in corrections officers’ (CO) knowledge of and atti...
Molecular Plasticity in Animal Pigmentation: Emerging Processes Underlying Color Changes

Animal coloration has been rigorously studied and has provided morphological implications for fitness with influences over social behavior, predator-prey interactions, and sexual selection. In vertebrates, its study has developed our understanding across diverse fields ranging from behavior to molecular biology. In the search for underlying molecular mechanisms many have taken advantage of pedigree-based and genome-wide association screens to reveal the genetic architecture responsible for pattern variation that occurs in early development. However, genetic differences do not provide a full picture of the dynamic changes in coloration that are most prevalent across vertebrates at the molecular level. Changes in coloration that occur in adulthood via phenotypic plasticity rely on various social, visual, and dietary cues independent of genetic variation. In this review, I will review the contributions of pigment cell biology to animal color changes and recent studies describing their molecular underpinnings and function. In this regard, conserved epigenetic processes such as DNA methylation play a role in lending plasticity to gene regulation as it relates to chromatophore function.Lastly, I will present African cichlids as emerging models for the study of pigmentation and molecular plasticity for animal color changes. I posit that these processes, in a dialogue with environmental stimuli, are important regulators of variation and the selective advantages that accompany a change in coloration for vertebrate animals.
G336(P) Inpatient management of medically unstable restrictive eating disorders

Aims Serious short and long term complications as well as a significant mortality risk result from the prolonged semi starvation associated with restrictive eating disorders unless prompt and early medical treatment and refeeding are provided. To audit and evaluate the initial medical assessment and the treatment and monitoring of children and adolescents admitted with a medically unstable restrictive eating disorder to a tertiary paediatric centre. Method The medical records, drug charts and growth and measurement charts of 21 admissions to a tertiary paediatric centre between October 2017 and April 2019 were reviewed retrospectively via an online case notes portal. Results Of the 21 admissions to a medical inpatient setting, 18 suffered from Anorexia Nervosa (AN), 2 from Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) and one was unspecified. 11 patients (52%) had an admission resting heart rate ≤50 bpm with 4 ≤40 bpm. By the time of discharge all patients had a heart rate > 50 bpm. Mean Body Mass Index (BMI) on admission was 15.7 (79.2% of median for age and sex). At discharge this had risen by 0.7 to 16.4 (82.7% of median). 8 patients (38%) had postural cardiovascular instability on admission but none were unstable by the time of discharge. In 12 patients (58%) the graduated meal plan system combined with our Unit’s standard oral phosphate and vitamin supplements were sufficient, but 9 (42.8%) patients required supplementary nasogastric feeds (range 1–43 days) and 6 (28.5%) required oral potassium supplementation. 2 patients required sectioning under the mental health act to enable adequate refeeding. Clinically significant refeeding syndrome was avoided with this treatment regime. There were no deaths. Conclusion With prompt, effective nutritional intervention and careful medical monitoring in children and adolescents with medically unstable restrictive eating disorders, it is possible to reverse potentially fatal short term complications and improve clinical parameters. Other studies have shown that early and effective nutritional intervention may also improve long term outcome.
The effect of chronic exposure to chloridazon and its degradation product chloridazon-desphenyl on signal crayfish Pacifastacus leniusculus.

The effects of chloridazon (Ch) and its metabolite chloridazon-desphenyl (Ch-D) at the environmentally relevant concentrations of 0.45 µg/L and 2.7 µg/L on signal crayfish Pacifastacus leniusculus were assessed in a 30-day exposure followed by a 15-day depuration period. Locomotion, biochemical haemolymph profile, oxidative and antioxidant parameters, and histopathology were evaluated. Crayfish exposed to Ch at 0.45 µg/L and 2.7 µg/L showed significantly (p < 0.01) higher CAT activity and GSH level in hepatopancreas and gill compared to controls. The concentration of Ch at 2.7 µg/L was associated with significantly (p < 0.01) higher levels of GLU, LACT, ALT, AST in haemolymph compared to controls. Chloridazon-desphenyl exposure at both tested concentrations caused significantly higher (p < 0.01) GLU, LACT, ALT, AST, NH3, and Ca in haemolymph; lipid peroxidation (TBARS) levels in hepatopancreas; and CAT activity and GSH level in hepatopancreas and gill. Alterations of structure including focal dilatation of tubules, increased number of fibrillar cells, and haemocyte infiltration in the interstitium were observed with 2.7 µg/L Ch and with both Ch-D exposures. Locomotion patterns did not vary significantly among groups. A 15-day recovery period was insufficient to restore normal physiological parameters in exposed groups. Chloridazon and its metabolite Ch-D exerts harmful effects on crayfish.
A Stochastic Programming Model for Service Scheduling with Uncertain Demand: an Application in Open-Access Clinic Scheduling

This paper addressed a scheduling problem which handles urgent tasks along with existing schedules. The uncertainties in this problem come from random process of existing schedules and unknown upcoming urgent tasks. To deal with the uncertainties, this paper proposes a stochastic integer programming (SIP) based aggregated online scheduling method. The method is illustrated through a study case from the outpatient clinic block-wise scheduling system which is under a hybrid scheduling policy combining regular far-in-advance policy and the open-access policy. The COVID-19 pandemic brings more challenges for the healthcare system including the fluctuations of service time and increasing urgent requests which this paper is designed for. The schedule framework designed in the method is comprehensive to accommodate various uncertainties in the healthcare service system, such as: no-shows, cancellations and punctuality of patients as well as preference of patients over time slots and physicians.
Concentration dataset of 8 selected trace elements in cultured rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and dietary exposure risks in the Missouri adult population.

Aquaculture contributes to the global animal protein supply and the prevention of malnutrition and diet-related diseases (FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations); Fiorella et al., 2021). In particular, fish is a significant source of animal protein, fatty acids (e.g., docosahexaenoic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid), vitamins, and essential trace elements in the human diet. Nonetheless, fish bioaccumulates metals from their diet and habitat. This data article includes information on the concentrations of 4 essential and 4 non-essential trace elements in cultured rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and the human health risks through fish consumption in the adult population. Concentrations of four essential (Cr, Cu, Ni, and Zn) and four non-essential (As, Cd, Pb, and Hg) elements were quantified in ninety-one O. mykiss samples from an in-door production system. Total mercury (THg) levels in samples were determined by AAS, and other analyzed trace elements were measured by ICP-OES after microwave-assisted acid digestion. The highest concentrations of metals/metalloid (mg/kg wet weight) in fish muscle were Cr (0.44), Cu (4.21), Ni (1.01), As (0.47), Cd (0.045), Pb (0.65), THg (0.029), and Zn (6.21). The average concentrations of Cr and Pb exceeded their respective maximum limit. In most cases, median metal concentrations significantly (p < 0.05) differed across the fish size groups (small: 264-295 mm; medium: 300-395 mm; and large: 400-552 mm). The median concentrations of Cd, Zn, and THg in the large size group differed significantly (p < 0.05) between genders. The estimated weekly intake values of quantified elements from muscle were below the provisional tolerable weekly intakes. Non-carcinogenic risk assessment in adult consumers, being below one (THQ ≤ 1; and TTHQ ≤ 1), indicated an insignificant health hazard. The estimated incremental and cumulative cancer risks in the adult class through Cr, As, Ni, and Pb exposure were greater than the benchmark (10-5). Accordingly, high dietary intake of metals/metalloid from cultured O. mykiss posed a risk of carcinogenesis in the adult risk class.
Monitoring Water Systems: The USA Experience

World-wide, the management of water systems is becoming more complex. There are numerous reasons for this including increasing population and urbanisation. Both population and urbanisation will continue to rise in the foreseeable future. Therefore, the degree of complexity will continue to increase. Djordjevic (1993) identified three indicators of this complexity: increasing difficulties in providing the required quantities of water for different purposes, increased problems associated with hydrologic phenomena such as floods and droughts, and increasing danger to humans and the environment from water pollution and destruction of water-related ecosystems. Water managers rely on good quality data and information to guide their decisions. As Djordjevic [1] so succinctly states, “Cybernetics has introduced the new element, information, without which a survival of organised large systems would not be feasible.”
Optimal Procurement Contract Selection with Price Optimization under Uncertainty for Process Networks

Abstract In this work, we propose extending the production planning decisions of a chemical process network to include optimal contract selection under uncertainty with suppliers and product selling price optimization. We use three quantity-based contract models: discount after a certain purchased amount, bulk discount, and fixed duration contracts. We propose the use of general regression models to describe the relationship between selling price, demand, and possibly other predictors, such as economic indicators. For illustration purposes, we consider three demand-response models (i.e., selling price as a function of demand) that are typically encountered in the literature: linear, constant-elasticity, and logit. We develop a mixed-integer nonlinear two-stage stochastic programming that accounts for uncertainty in both supply (e.g., raw material spot market price) and demand (random nature of the residuals of the regression models) for the planning of the process network. The proposed method is illustrated with two numerical examples of chemical process networks.
PRUDENT AND IMPRUDENT USE OF ANTLERLESS MOOSE HARVESTS IN INTERIOR ALASKA

Liberal antlerless moose (Alces alces) hunts which allow the take of substantial numbers of largely female moose have been controversial and divisive since the Alaska Department of Fish and Game instituted ill-timed, liberal antlerless hunts in the early 1970s that contributed to a precipitous population decline. Thus, we initially found the governing, citizen (non-agency) advisory committees largely skeptical of implementing liberal antlerless harvests in the early 2000s in Game Management Unit 20A (Unit 20A). To help justify the hunts, we focused on presenting information about the notably low nutritional status of the current moose population relative to moose populations worldwide. However, to gain broader credibility and trust, we needed to directly address public perceptions regarding former “mismanagement” of antlerless hunts, including admitting past mistakes that contributed to long-term poor hunting opportunities. We subsequently presented major differences between recent antlerless hunts and those in the 1970s. Specifically, we contrasted relevant circumstances between the 2 time periods, including moose population trajectories, harvest rates of males and females, survey techniques and related technology, winter severity and frequency, and reproductive rates. Illustrating the major, time-period differences in these parameters was key to assuring the public that harvest of female moose could be prudent. By directly addressing public anxieties, we were successful in gaining and maintaining public support for liberal antlerless hunts in Unit 20A. Subsequently, our success in Unit 20A has helped ease recent expansion of antlerless hunts into adjacent areas.
UTILIZATION OF DILATED EYE EXAMS AMONG ADULTS WITH DIABETES

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to determine the utilization rate of dilated eye exams among adults with diabetes, and to examine the differences in receiving dilated eye exams by predisposing, need, and enabling factors. Methods: National survey data from the 2010 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. Univariate, weighted bivariate, and logistic regression analyses were performed. Independent variables include demographic information. The dependent variable is the receipt of a dilated eye exam. Results: Some characteristics of individuals who were more likely to receive a dilated eye exam include adults 65 or older, non-Hispanic Blacks, individuals with a health plan, individuals who had a physical exam within the past year, individuals with some type of formal diabetes education, and individuals earning at least $50,000 annually. Conclusion: The Andersen Behavior Model that predisposing, need, and enabling factors are positively associated to the receipt of a dilated eye examination was supported. All enabling factors used in our study are strong predictors of receiving a dilated eye examination. Developing effective recommendations and guidelines for dilated eye exam utilization targeting at-risk adults with diabetes may be beneficial for increasing the number of adults with diabetes who receive annual dilated eye exams.
EFFECT OF MYCOSUPPRESSIN ON THE RESPIRATION AND GROWTH OF MYCOBACTERIUM TUBERCULOSIS

Youmans, Anne S. (Northwestern University Medical School, Chicago, Ill.) and Guy P. Youmans. Effect of mycosuppressin on the respiration and growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. J. Bacteriol. 84:708–715. 1962.—A substance, called mycosuppressin, was found in the lungs of guinea pigs and rabbits vaccinated with BCG or with a particulate immunizing fraction isolated from mycobacterial cells, and was not found in lungs of unvaccinated animals. Mycosuppressin inhibited the endogenous respiration and the growth of the virulent H37Rv strain of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It also inhibited the endogenous respiration of the avirulent H37Ra strain and the saprophyte, M. smegmatis, but it increased the respiration of M. phlei. The oxidation by the H37Rv strain of lactate, pyruvate, glycerol, and glucose was also inhibited. Cytochrome oxidase activity was suppressed. Mycosuppressin was most stable at pH 6 to 7. It was nondialyzable, stable at 98 C, and not affected by lyophilization or freezing. It was soluble, in alcohol and acetone, insoluble in ether and water. Under appropriate conditions, mycosuppressin combined with, or was adsorbed to, mycobacterial cells, and was inactivated by serum and bovine serum albumin. It did not inhibit but, instead increased markedly, the respiration of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.
Anemia in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and the Potential Role of Iron Deficiency

The purpose of this review is to evaluate the role of anemia on patient outcomes in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the potential contribution that low iron stores may play in this process, and possible treatment considerations. A review of research studies found that anemia is associated with declining functional outcomes, increased health care utilization and costs, and increased mortality in COPD. Associations exist between reduced iron intake and progression of COPD and in reduction of iron status with declining lung function. Currently data are limited on the effects of either treating anemia or utilizing iron supplementation in anemic COPD patients. If iron supplementation might therefore reverse some of the declines that patients experience, then routine screening and treatment may turn out to be an effective, simple and inexpensive intervention. Iron supplementation models utilized in other inflammatory-related disease states were reviewed as a possible starting point to evaluate treatment options in COPD. Future research can be directed to establish best practice standards for the use of iron supplementation in COPD.
Selective Luminal Absorption of L‐Carnitine from the Proximal Regions of the Rat Epididymis Possible Relationships to Development of Sperm Motility

The absorption of L-carnitine from the duct of the proximal regions of the rat epididymis was investigated using a stopped-flow, split-droplet microperfusion technique. L-carnitine was absorbed from the duct of the proximal caput epididymidis by a time-dependent and saturable transport system (Km = 25 micron; Vmax = 0.65 pmoles absorbed/min/mm3 tubular volume). Furthermore, absorption appeared to be primarily sodium-independent, although the existence of a minor sodium-dependent pathway cannot be ruled out. A similar transport system was not evident along the distal caput epididymidis, where absorption of L-carnitine was attributable to passive diffusion only. The inward and outward movement of L-carnitine across the epithelium of the proximal and distal caput epididymidis appears to be regulated so that the spermatozoa come into contact with high levels of L-carnitine in the distal caput region.
Interaction of Na+ and Mg2+ ions in acetylcholine receptor channels of frog skeletal muscle changes in character with an increase in agonist concentration.

Measurements of agonist-induced single-channel currents of nicotinic acetylcholine receptor channels (nAChR) have shown that addition of divalent metal cations (Ca2+, Mg2+, Ba2+) in millimolar amounts causes a decrease of 40% or more in currents carried by monovalent cations (Na+, Cs+). Conventional voltage-clamp measurements were made at frog (Rana pipiens) sartorius endplates to determine if this occlusive interaction between mono- and divalent cations is preserved in macroscopic currents produced by higher concentrations of nAChR agonists, as would be expected on the basis of simple summation of unitary currents. Single ion nAChR currents of Na+ (INa+ ) and Mg2+(IMg2+ ) and the composite current when both cations were present (INa+, Mg2+ ) were measured in high-K+, low ionic strength bathing media during local superfusion with various concentrations of carbamylcholine. It was found that, at lower test carbamylcholine levels of 27 and 54 microM, peak values of INa+, Mg2+ were 40% and 53% of the respective INa+ , in agreement with the effects observed from single-channel measurements. At all higher carbamylcholine levels, however, peak INa+, Mg2+ exceeded INa+ and increased instead with the sum of INa+ and IMg2+ as if there was an independent movement of these ions through the channels rather than the occlusive interaction found at lower carbamylcholine levels. This suggests that with exposure to increasing agonist concentrations above those commonly used in single-channel measurements there are changes in the open state of nAChR affecting cation selectivity possibly in the narrow pore region of the channels.
Neurotoxicity due to thiouracil and thiourea derivatives; a case report.

THE untoward clinical reactions most frequently noted with the administration of thiouracil and thiourea derivatives have been leukopenia,dermatoses, drug fever and agranulocytosis. Other less common, lesspublicized, but no less important toxic reactions also occur. These includetransient painful swellings of the subcutaneous tissues (1), hematuria (2),edematoid swellings of the face, hands and feet (3–6), spontaneous purpura(7), and acute atrophy of the liver (8). In addition, reactions characterizedby a variety of neurologic disturbances may be encountered. These arebelieved to be of a neurotoxic nature. It is with these “neurotoxic” reactions that this paper is primarilyconcerned. An unusual instance of bizarre but definite neuropathy due to 6-n-propylthiouracil (hereinafter called propylthiouracil) focussed ourattention upon the heretofore unappreciated importance of the neurologicmanifestations of thiouracil and thiourea toxicity. CASE REPORT Mrs. M. E. F. (B. G. H. #189509), aged 64, was admitted to...
Lateralized effects of diazepam on frontal brain electrical asymmetries in rhesus monkeys.

Abstract A growing body of literature has documented the differential role of the frontal regions of the two cerebral hemispheres in certain positive and negative affective processes. This corpus of evidence has led to the hypothesis of a possible differential effect of diazepam on asymmetry of frontal activation. To examine this question, nine infant rhesus monkeys were tested on two occasions during which brain electrical activity was recorded from left and right frontal and parietal scalp regions. During one session, recordings were obtained under a baseline restraint condition and then after an injection of diazepam (1 mg/kg). In the other session, following the same baseline restraint condition, a vehicle injection was given. In response to diazepam, the animals showed an asymmetrical decrease in power in the 4–8 Hz frequency band, which was most pronounced in the left frontal region. No change in electroencephalogram (EEG) activity was observed in response to vehicle. Asymmetry in parietal EEG activity was also unchanged by diazepam. Diazepam also produced overall reductions in power across different frequency bands in both frontal and parietal regions. Good test-retest stability of EEG measures of activation asymmetry was also found between the two testing sessions separated by three months. The possible proximal cause of the asymmetrical change in frontal brain electrical activity in response to diazepam, as well as the implications of these findings for understanding the mechanism of action of benzodiazepines are discussed.
Beam Monitors Based on Light Observation for the Beam Switchyard of the Stanford Two-Mile Linear Accelerator

This paper describes three monitors and the associated optical system used to observe the profile of the high-power electron beam in the switchyard of the two-mile linear accelerator. One device is based on the observation of synchrotron light emitted by the beam when deflected in the analyzing magnets. The second type uses the Cerenkov light produced in a gas cell which is inserted into the beam path when needed. The third type uses conventional zinc sulfide screens with a mechanism for replacing a screen which has become inactive, with a new screen. Reflective optics systems and closed circuit television are used to transmit the images of the beam spots to T.V. monitors in the control room.
Pontage artério-veineux débouchant dans la veine axillaire proximale

Les acces arterio-veineux peuvent entrainer des complications telles qu'une ischemie ou un œdeme du membre. L'utilisation du membre superieur non dominant est privilegiee car les complications entrainent une impotence moindre. La veine axillaire distale au niveau du creux axillaire est habituellement consideree comme le segment terminal pour les acces arterio-veineux du membre superieur. Les chirurgiens vasculaires sont familiers avec l'exposition de l'artere axillaire proximale par une incision sous-claviculaire. La veine axillaire est egalement facilement exposee par cette technique. L'utilisation de cette veine comme segment distal d'un pontage arterio-veineux est susceptible de preserver le membre dominant pour une utilisation future. Neuf malades ayant des pontages arterio-veineux avec segment veineux au niveau de la veine axillaire proximale sont presentes. Tous les malades ont eu une exposition de la veine axillaire proximale par une voie sous-claviculaire. II y avait 6 femmes et 3 hommes. Tous les malades avaient eu des acces multiples dans le membre superieur homolateral qui avaient echoue. Un malade avait une configuration prothetique en boucle, alors que les 6 autres avaient une prothese droite avec un flux arteriel par l'artere humerale. Un malade avait une prothese en veine mesenterique bovine, alors que les 6 autres avaient des protheses en polytetrafluoroethylene expanse. Six des 7 malades ont eu une chirurgie ambulatoire, alors qu'un malade a ete admis en post-operatoire pour des troubles mentaux. Les taux de permeabilite ont ete de 78% avec un suivi moyen de 16 mois. Un malade a eu un echec precoce en raison d'un vol et un malade s'est thrombose a 22 mois. Six malades sur 7 sont vivants actuellement. Trois malades ont necessite des procedures secondaires, telles qu'une angioplastie veineuse (n = 2) ou un stenting de l'artere sous-claviere (n = 1). La veine axillaire sous-claviculaire peut etre utilisee comme un lit d'aval efficace pour les pontages arterio-veineux. Elle peut etre realisee en externe avec un faible taux de complications. Cette procedure est susceptible de preserver le membre superieur dominant pour les acces futurs et fournit une alternative possible a la chirurgie d'un autre membre.
INHIBITION OF HAST CELL MEDIATOR RELEASE BY 5-AMINO-4-IMIDAZOLECARB0XAMIDE RIBOSIDE (AICAR): 124

Stimulated mast cells produce and release adenosine, and the release of mast cell mediators is potentiated by adenosine, yet very little is known regarding mast cell purine metabolism. Because AICAR has been shown to alter metabolism of adenosine and accelerate the repletion of ATP pools in other tissues, its effect on mast cell function was examined. Simultaneous addition of AICAR (25-250μM) with A23187 or specific antigen did not alter mouse bone marrow-derived mast cell (MMC) β-hexosaminidase (β-hex) release in the absence or presence of exogenous adenosine, nor did a 60-min preincubation with AICAR. However, MMCs cultured for 6 days in the presence of 10-100μM AICAR demonstrate a slightly increased spontaneous release of β-hex and histamine, and a markedly decreased mediator release response to A23187 or antigen equal to 45.2±0.1% of release from control cells (p<.005) with or without the additional presence of adenosine (10−4-10−10M). Exposure to these concentrations of AICAR had no effect on MMC viability, rate of division, or basal β-hex concentrations. An unusual ribonucleotide triphosphate previously identified as a regulatory molecule in formyl-depleted cells, AICAR triphosphate (ZTP), has been identified in 6-day cultures of AICAR-treated MMCs at a concentration of 0.065±0.002nmoles/106 cells (controls < 0.005nmoles ZTP/106 cells). A modest enhancement (∼15%) of intracellular ATP levels is also seen in the AICAR MMCs. This global inhibition of MMC mediator release may prove to be important in the treatment of allergic diseases.
Effects of chlorpromazine on plasma glucose kinetics and concentration of long chain fatty acids in sheep

1. 1. Intravenous injection of chlorpromazine (CPZ) into sheep increased plasma glucose concentration from 3.4 to 5.6 mM and long chain fatty acid concentration from 0.29 to 0.40 mM within 10 min. Glucose returned to steady state within 210 min and fatty acid within 120 min. 2. 2. Plasma glucose kinetics were evaluated with a primed infusion of [6-3H]d-glucose. 3. 3. The CPZ-induced hyperglycemia was caused by a large increase in glucose influx (from 8.6 to 70 μmol/min per kg) which was of short duration (20 min). 4. 4. The hyperglycemia was resolved by a moderate increase in glucose outflux (from 8.6 to 24 μmol/min per kg) which was of long duration (210 min).
Crippling of Krüppel (-like factor 2) by bad flow portends a miRky day for endothelial function.

Kruppel-like Factor 2 (KLF2) is a 38-kDa transcription factor that is highly expressed in the vascular endothelium. The enormous attention that KLF2 has received in recent years is well deserved, because experimental evidence has shown that it is a vital protein that, via transcriptional and nontranscriptional targets, mediates a host of endothelial functions.1 These include inhibition of vascular inflammation and attendant atherosclerosis, maintenance of an antithrombotic endothelial surface, stimulation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase expression and vascular nitric oxide production, inhibition of hypoxia-stimulated angiogenesis, and promotion of prenatal vasculogenesis, among others. It is not surprising, therefore, that regulation of endothelial KLF2 expression has been the subject of intense investigation. Article see p 633 Systole, diastole, and the intrinsic elasticity of the arterial tree results in a blood flow that is pulsatile in fashion. This blood flow, in straight parts of the arterial tree, imparts a laminar stress on the endothelium. Laminar flow stimulates endothelial KLF2 expression.2 Segments of the arterial tree that face pulsatile laminar flow are less prone to the development of atherosclerotic plaque than those that are subject to oscillatory flow (which results in nonlaminar shear), such as at branch points and curvatures.3 Parallel with the susceptibility of arterial regions exposed to oscillatory flow to atheromatous changes, endothelial KLF2 expression is decreased in such regions.2 Consistent with the role of KLF2 in stimulating endothelial nitric oxide synthase expression and nitric oxide production, laminar flow promotes endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation,4,5 whereas oscillatory flow impairs it.6 Differential regulation of endothelial KLF2 expression in response …
Tunable Subpicosecond Electron-Bunch-Train Generation Using a Transverse-To-Longitudinal Phase-Space Exchange Technique

We report on the experimental generation of a train of subpicosecond electron bunches. The bunch train generation is accomplished using a beam line capable of exchanging the coordinates between the horizontal and longitudinal degrees of freedom. An initial beam consisting of a set of horizontally separated beamlets is converted into a train of bunches temporally separated with tunable bunch duration and separation. The experiment reported in this Letter unambiguously demonstrates the conversion process and its versatility.
Computation of the thermodynamic properties of reactions involving minerals and queous solutions with the aid of the personal computer

Abstract A BASIC program (EQCALC) for the calculation of the thermodynamic properties of reactions involving minerals, ions, and liquid water has been developed for the personal computer. EQCALC is written in “generic” BASIC in order to be as machine independent as possible. The program runs on the IBM PC, IBM compatibles, and many other microcomputers, requiring about 84K bytes for execution. The program outputs the standard molal volume, standard molal heat capacity, standard molal enthalpy, standard molal Gibbs free energy, and the logarithm of the equilibrium constant for the reaction.
Producibility of uncooled IRFPA detectors

Demonstrated detectivity of uncooled infrared focal plane arrays is better than O.1°K noise equivalent temperature difference, Uncooled performance levels are now suitable for military and commercial applications. The manufacturing science of this technology lags that for mercury cadmium tellurium based cooled focal planes. The manufacturing issues and approaches for ferroelectric material based uncooled detectors are discussed. The recommended approach is to address producibility issues based on pareto analysis of the process flow and to address the most highly leveraged process steps in terms of time and labor input. Detailed modeling of the process flow has been undertaken as a part of this analysis. Processes addressed in detail are lap and polish of the detector, photolithography, metallization, etches, hybridization, and test. Several approaches are shown to yield comparable cost focal planes, but a process technology leveraging silicon process technologies is shown to minimize space and equipment.
Use of Stopped-Flow Spectrophotometry to Establish Midpoint Potentials for Redox Proteins

Abstract Stopped-flow spectrophotometry was examined as a tool to assign midpoint potentials to protein redox half-reactions. The method involves the rapid mixing of protein and electron transfer mediator solutions and the determination of the absorbance of at least one of the reacting species or products at equilibrium. The utility of the method was demonstrated with two different redox proteins (nitrogenase iron protein and cytochrome c ) with very different midpoint potentials. The overall errors ranged from about ±0.5 to 3 mV. Advantages of the method include short times required for the experiments, the precision and accuracy of the method in comparison to other methods, the conservative use of valuable protein in the experiments and the ease of obtaining midpoint potentials for redox protein half-reactions, and the potential range covered by a single electron transfer mediator when the method involves mediated electron transfer. It is concluded that the stopped-flow spectrophotometry should be considered the method of choice for determining protein midpoint potentials.
The practical use of an isolation ward in a general hospital for the treatment of tuberculosis.

Civilization today demands the modern hospital and compels the development of hospital facilities that will keep it abreast with the advancement in modern medicine. Our present hospitals have grown from the simple and humble “boarding house” for the sick, to a vast system where there is assembled not only scientific equipment, devices and methods for performing the practices required by scientific medicine, but a group of professionally trained personnel to conduct the services and perform the tasks which are essential to the proper handling of diagnostic and therapeutic measures according to the best scientific principles. The modern hospital has become the place of first resort in time of illness and disease and the community must possess this vital facility with service for all classes regardless of the patient’s ability to pay. Increasing interest in hospital care is a community responsibility which is most gratifying and the modern hospital is commanding greater recognition as one of the indispensable elements in the program of public welfare. The demands made upon the modern hospital by scientific medicine are highly varied and enormous. Let us ponder for the moment the requirements of the modern hospital including the elaborate and expensive laboratory equipment, x-ray apparatus, operating equipment, with all of the latest devices used in this area, including anesthesia apparatus; the special diet kitchens with equipment to bring everything necessary to the bedside of the patient; the engineering plant, laundry and many other features essential to the complete care of the patient. Few people have an idea of the number of personnel required to staff the modern hospital. Physicians, pathologists, roentgenologists, technicians, highly trained nurses, Interns, expert dietitians, student nurses, kitchen workers, engineers, social service workers, record librarians, office workers, maids, orderlies, housekeepers, executives and many others. The gathering of this large number of highly trained and professional personnel to concentrate on the care of patients in the modern hospital gives recognition to the fact that the facilities available are broad In scope and should be conducted in a coordinated man-
Rapid thermal chemical vapor deposition growth of nanometer-thin SiC on silicon

Abstract Rapid thermal chemical vapor deposition growth of β-SiC ultrathin films on Si (100) was achieved using the carbonization reaction of the silicon substrate with C 3 H 8 gas. Growth rates of 0.5–2 nm s −1 have been achieved at 1100–1300°C using C 3 H 8 flow rates of 7–9 standard cm 3 min −1 . X-ray and electron diffraction indicate single-crystal epitaxial growth. Therefore nanometer-scale SiC films can be grown by controlling the reaction time to a few seconds. The activation energy at atmospheric pressure is 3.12 eV. The growth rate was found to decrease significantly at higher C 3 H 8 flow rates, leading to films of constant thickness beyond a certain critical reaction time. Using this regime of self-limiting growth, SiC films of 3–5 nm have been grown with relatively little sensitivity to the growth time.
Plastic flow stability of metallic nanolaminate composites

Metallic nanolaminate composites synthesized via physical vapor deposition possess ultra-high strengths, often within a factor of two to three of the theoretical strength limit, when the bilayer periods are on the order of a few nanometers. The origins of failure in vapor-deposited nanolaminate composites at large plastic strains have not been reported in any significant detail. In this article, we present an overview of the length-scale dependent plastic flow stability of metallic nanolaminates deformed to large plastic strains via room temperature rolling.
Effect of Short-Chain Fatty Acids on Voluntary Feed of Broiler Chicks

Abstract Studies were conducted on the effect of feeding various low-molecular-weight fatty acids on the voluntary feed intake (FI) of broiler chicks. In a series of experiments, the effect of single intubations of various organic acids on FI during the following 24 h was investigated in male broiler chicks 2 to 3 wk of age. The various compounds diluted in glycerol were given at 100, 200, 300, or 600 mg/kg BW in various intubated volumes. The zero-level birds received glycerol only. Intubation of propionic acid (but not of formic, acetic, butyric, valeric, or caproic acid) significantly decreased FI linearly (P In a second study, the effect of dietary incorporation of acetate and propionate, as the Ca salt or free acid, on FI from 7 to 21 days of age was investigated in chicks. Propionate depressed voluntary FI more than acetate, and the Ca salt depressed FI more than the free acid. Propionate (but not acetate) significantly depressed the deposition of abdominal fat. Another experiment with various levels of lactic acid fed from 21 to 28 days of age revealed no significant effect on FI. Propionic acid has a specific effect on the appetite of chicks, but acetic acid also reduces their appetite when included in the diet in a nonvolatile form.
An x-ray diffraction and computer simulation study of [111] twist boundaries in gold

Abstract Quantitative X-ray diffraction measurements have been made from a series of (111) gold bicrystals containing twist grain boundaries with controlled geometry. Each bicrystal was prepared at a specific angle of misorientation Θ° but because of double positioning both Θ° and 60-Θ° twist boundaries were present in the specimens. Since these pairs of boundaries have distinct structures, the intensity measurements from each bicrystal contained superimposed information representing an average from both boundary types. In order to understand these measurements in terms of the boundary structures involved, computer calculations were performed to characterize the theoretical scattering effects expected from [111] twist boundaries related by double positioning. By comparing the measurements with the calculations, it was possible to determine the conditions under which reliable structural information concerning doubly positioned twist boundaries could be obtained. From an appropriate analysis of the data, it...