cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fast algorithms for placing large entries along the diagonal of a sparse matrix

Solving a sparse system of linear equations Ax=b is one of the most fundamental operations inside any circuit simulator. The equations/rows in the matrix A are often rearranged/permuted before factorization and applying direct or iterative methods to obtain the solution. Permuting the rows of the matrix A so that the entries with large absolute values lie on the diagonal has several advantages like better numerical stability for direct methods (e.g., Gaussian elimination) and faster convergence for indirect methods (such as the Jacobi method). Duff (2009) [3] has formulated this as a weighted bipartite matching problem (the MC64 algorithm). In this paper we improve the performance of the MC64 algorithm with a new labeling technique which improves the asymptotic complexity of updating dual variables from O(|V|+|E|) to O(|V|), where |V| is the order of the matrix A and |E| is the number of non-zeros. Experimental results from using the new algorithm, when benchmarked with both industry benchmarks and UFL sparse matrix collection, are very promising. Our algorithm is more than 60 times faster (than Duff's algorithm) for sparse matrices with at least a million non-zeros.
Visual and anatomical outcomes following intravitreal aflibercept in eyes with recalcitrant neovascular age-related macular degeneration: 12-month results.

To describe the efficacy of intravitreal aflibercept on 12-month visual and anatomical outcomes in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) recalcitrant to prior monthly intravitreal bevacizumab or ranibizumab. Non-comparative case series of 21 eyes of 21 AMD patients with evidence of persistent exudation (intraretinal fluid/cysts, or subretinal fluid (SRF), or both) on spectral domain OCT despite ≥6 prior intravitreal 0.5 mg ranibizumab or 1.25 mg bevacizumab (mean 29.8±17.1 injections) over 31.6±17.4 months who were transitioned to aflibercept. At baseline, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 0.42±0.28 logarithm of minimum-angle of resolution (logMAR), central foveal thickness (CFT) was 329.38±102.67 μm and macular volume (MV) was 7.71±1.32 mm3. After 12 months of aflibercept (mean 10.2±1.2 injections), BCVA was 0.40±0.28 logMAR (P=0.5), CFT decreased to 292.71±91.35 μm (P=0.038) and MV improved to 7.33±1.27 mm3 (P=0.003). In a subset of 15 eyes with a persistent fibrovascular or serous pigment epithelial detachment (PED), mean baseline PED greatest basal diameter (GBD) was 2350.9±1067.6 μm and mean maximal height (MH) was 288.7±175.9 μm. At 12 months, GBD improved to 1896.3±782.3 μm (P=0.028), while MH decreased to 248.27±146.2 μm (P=0.002). In patients with recalcitrant AMD, aflibercept led to anatomic improvement at 12 months, reduction in proportion of eyes with SRF and reduction in PED, while preserving visual acuity.
Explicit Method for Parameter Identification

Parameter identie cation of dynamical systems through a new method that treats the unknown parameters as timedependentisreported.Withappropriateobservationaldata,theunknown systemparametersareguided from an arbitrary initialconditionto theirtruevalueat a e nal time. An explicit equationdescribing thetimeevolutionof theparametersisobtainedbyminimizing theerroralongthetrajectory.Themethodleadstoaniterativealgorithm, which is described in detail. Numerical results with the method indicate that accurate estimates of the unknown parameters can be obtained. I. Introduction T HIS paper presents a new method for parameter identie cation of dynamical systems. This activity falls in the general domain of inverse problems where the interest is to obtain the unknown system parameters from the given output measurement of the system. In many applications there is a nonlinear relationship between the measured output and the desired system unknowns. The inverse problemis further complicated by the fact that the measured data will contain noise and are often insufe cient to uniquely specify a solution. A number of techniques have been developed to treat such problems. A brief summary of results for systems described by ordinary differential equations can be found in, for example, Refs. 1 and 2. These approaches include the method of least squares, stochastic least squares, maximum likelihood, and a number of other variations. These schemes have also been applied to dynamical systems governed by partial differential equations. 3,4 A generalized class of linear inversion methods has been applied to a number of physical systems involving replacement of the nonlinear relationship between the observed data and the unknowns with a linear approximation. A comprehensive review of this approach can be found. 5,6 Of particular interest are direct inversion schemes for continuous systemsthatarebasedonregularization. 7 Inthispaper,we approach the parameter identie cation problem for systems governed by ordinary differential equations in a way that permits a similar treatment of the problem. We then use regularization to stabilize the inversion. The method leads to an explicit differential equation for the unknown parameters, which is used in an iterative algorithm. In this paper, we do not address the question of system identie ability . 8 We present a method that can be used to estimate the parameters for systems that are identie able. Thepaperisorganizedasfollow.InSec.II,wepresentthegeneral algorithm along with a number of numerical examples. Section III considers an extension of the method to a broader class of systems, including further numerical results, and Sec. IV is devoted to conclusions.
Neuroprotective role of mitochondrial uncoupling protein 2 in cerebral stroke

The uncoupling proteins (UCPs) are mitochondrial transporter proteins involved in proton conductance across inner mitochondrial membrane (IMM). UCP2, which is one of the members of this class of proteins, has a wide but restricted tissue distribution including brain. Its physiologic role according to emerging evidences, although still not clear, indicate that distribution of UCP2 may be related to regulation of mitochondria membrane potential (ΔΨm), production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), preservation of calcium homeostasis, modulation of neuronal activity, and eventually inhibition of cellular damage. These factors are very important in determining the fate of neurons and damage progression in the brain during various neurodegenerative diseases including cerebral stroke. Recent evidence indicates that an increased expression and activity of UCP2 are well correlated with neuronal survival after stroke and trauma. This review briefly covers the present understanding of UCP2, which eventually may be beneficial to understand the precise role of UCP2 to develop strategy to identify its potential therapeutic application.
Clinical Evaluation of the Hip: Radiologic Evaluation

For the patient with a painful hip, radiographic analysis is essential for the complete work up. For those patients with relatively normal-appearing radiographs, careful analysis for the loss of femoral head–neck offset and subtle acetabular dysplasia (ie, retroversion) may provide a clue to the presence of intra-articular abnormality. Periacetabular ossicles and synovial herniation pits often considered normal variants should be considered markers for impingement or labral pathology. A generalized magnetic resonance of the entire pelvis is insufficient for evaluating internal derangements of the hips but may be needed to evaluate nonfocal pain. For those with clinical suspicions of labral pathology, direct magnetic resonance arthrography of the affected hip continues to yield the highest sensitivity, accuracy, and reproducibility for detection of labral tears. It is important to evaluate, not only the labrum, but cartilage, joint capsule, ligamentum teres, and surrounding muscles and tendons to confirm clinical suspicions, provide preoperative planning, and offer prognostic information.
Effects of temperature profiles through preform thickness on the properties of reheat–blown PET containers

Nonuniform temperature distributions through preform sidewalls have been studied in relation to their effects on the orientation and functional properties of reheat-and-blown PET containers. Each temperature profile, through the preform thickness, was computed from processing conditions by solving the energy equation with radiation as the heating source. The computed temperature profile was verified by measuring the inside and outside preform surface temperatures using infrared thermocouples. Bottles were then blow molded with various temperature profiles and measurements were carried out on samples cut from the sidewalls. Thickness distributions and axial ratios were determined as were changes in mechanical, optical, and barrier properties. It was found that optical anisotropy through bottle wall thickness was minimal when the inside preform surface was at a higher temperature than the outside surface. Densities of the bottle sidewalls were found to be higher for bottles blow molded at higher average temperatures and there were small increases in density for bottles blown with the preform inside surface at a higher temperature than the outside surface. Haze measurements showed that, to obtain optically clear containers, bottles with an inside hoop ratio of 5.25 should be blown with an inside surface temperature of at least 100°C. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 17: 237–249, 1998
Bacterial expression of human cysteine proteinase inhibitor stefin A

Abstract Stefin A, a cysteine proteinase inhibitor of the cystatin superfamily, has been found to be most abundant in epidermal cells. In order to determine its cellular function, we have expressed human stefin A in Escherichia coli using plasmid expression vectors under the control of bacteriophage T7 RNA polymerase. The heat-stable, antibody-positive bacterial product was isolated using a papain-Sepharose affinity column and was shown to inhibit two cysteine proteinases, papain and human cathepsin B. Recombinant stefin A may have commercial and therapeutic potential in situations requiring inhibition of cysteine proteinase activities, and in cosmetics, as an ingredient in skin creams. Gene expression system; DNA, recombinant; Stefin A; Cystatin A
DOES THE HUMAN FIGURE REPLACEMENT TECHNIQUE REVEAL THE OPERATION OF SOCIAL SCHEMATA

Many investigators have made use of a technique for studying social schemata: Ss briefly view representations of human figures presented with a fixed separation and then attempt to reconstruct the social display as originally viewed. Errors of replacement are recorded and related to the specific social content of the stimuli and a variety of other behaviors and individual traits. Population differences are often studied. A review of relevant studies leads to the conclusion that replacement errors are not random reflections of perceptual error but are in fact specific to the social content of the stimuli which arouse specific social schemata (or social response sets).
Regulatory elements of the EKLF gene that direct erythroid cell-specific expression during mammalian development

Erythroid Kruppel-like factor (EKLF) plays an essential role in enabling β-globin expression during erythroid ontogeny. It is first expressed in the extraembryonic mesoderm of the yolk sac within the morphologically unique cells that give rise to the blood islands, and then later within the hepatic primordia. The BMP4/Smad pathway plays a critical role in the induction of EKLF, and transient transfection analyses demonstrate that sequences located within less than 1 kb of its transcription initiation site are sufficient for high-level erythroid-specific transcription. We have used transgenic analyses to verify that 950 bp located adjacent to the EKLF start site of transcription is sufficient to generate lacZ expression within the blood islands as well as the fetal liver during embryonic development. Of particular importance are 3 regions, 2 of which overlap endogenous erythroid-specific DNase hypersensitive sites, and 1 of which includes the proximal promoter region. The onset of transgene expression mimics that of endogenous EKLF as it begins by day 7.5 (d7.5) to d8.0. In addition, it exhibits a strict hematopoietic specificity, localized only to these cells and not to the adjacent vasculature at all stages examined. Finally, expression is heterocellular, implying that although these elements are sufficient for tissue-specific expression, they do not shield against the position effects of adjacent chromatin. These analyses demonstrate that a surprisingly small DNA segment contains all the information needed to target a linked gene to the hematopoietic compartment at both early and later stages of development, and may be a useful cassette for this purpose.
GLEAMS, Opus, PRZM2β, and PRZM3 Simulations Compared with Measured Atrazine Runoff

High-intensity storms that occur shortly after chemical application have the greatest potential to cause chemical runoff. We examined how effectively current chemical transport models GLEAMS, Opus, PRZM2β, and PRZM3 could predict water runoff and runoff losses of atrazine [6-chloro-N-ethyl-N'-(1.methylethyl)-1,3,5-triazine-2,4-diamine] under such conditions, as compared with observations from a controlled field runoff experiment. The experiment was conducted for 2 yr using simulated rainfall on two 14.6- by 42.7-m plots within a corn (Zea mays L.) field on Tifton loamy sand (title-loamy, kaolinitic, thermic Plinthic Kandiudults) under conventional tillage practices. For each plot-year, atrazine was applied as surface spray immediately after planting and followed by a 50-mm, 2-h simulated rainfall 24 h later. A similar preapplication rainfall and four subsequent rainfalls during the growing season were also applied. Observed water runoff averaged 20% of the applied rainfall. Less runoff occurred from freshly tilled soil or under full canopy cover; more runoff occurred when nearly bare soil had crusted. Observed total seasonal atrazine runoff averaged 2.7% of that applied, with the first posttreatment event runoff averaging 89% of the total. GLEAMS, Opus, PRZM2β and PRZM3 adequately predicted water runoff amounts, with normalized root mean square errors of 29, 29, 31, and 31%, respectively. GLEAMS and PRZM3 predicted atrazine concentrations in runoff within a factor of two of observed concentrations. PRZM2β overpredicted atrazine concentrations. Opus adequately predicted atrazine concentrations in runoff when it was run with an equilibrium adsorption submodel, but significantly underestimated atrazine concentrations when it was run with a kinetic sorption submodel.
Electrochemical growth of crystals from electrolyte solutions

An electrochemical crystal-growth technique is described in which an electrolyte reaction involving one ion in the desired crystal is used to create a concentration gradient in that ion across the cell. Nutrient material held near the consuming electrode is dissolved, and crystal growth near the producing electrode occurs at a rate which can be controlled by the current through the cell. The technique has been demonstrated with the growth of Ca(OH)2 crystals from aqueous solutions of CaCl2 plus KCl.
Import-substituting industrialization and protection of the small-scale: The Indian experience in the textile industry

Abstract Indian policies on investment for long-run growth were based on a theoretical model which was under discussion during the development of the Second Five Year Plan in 1956. This model called for the “protection” of the small-scale industrial sector from competition of large-scale domestic procedures and foreign firms, while the bulk of new investment went into the production of capital goods in the large-scale sector. After a review of the logic behind this model of economic growth, the paper investigates its far-reaching effect on economic well-being with a case study of the textile industry.
A handoff report card for general nursing orientation.

While redesigning nursing orientation, a gap in the transmission of information from general hospital to unit orientation was identified: Unit managers were unaware of the strengths and weaknesses identified in the nursing orientation of newly hired experienced nurses and, therefore, could not tailo
A Note on Segmenting Mann Iterates

W. R. Mann [5] introduced the following general iterative procedure: Suppose A = (a& is an infinite, lower triangular, regular row-stochastic matrix. If E is a closed convex subset of a Banach space and T is a continuous mapping of E into itself and xi E E, then M(x, , A, T) is the process defined by 71
Lack of α-synuclein does not alter apoptosis of neonatal catecholaminergic neurons

α-Synuclein is an abundant neuronal protein of uncertain function linked to Parkinson's disease. Numerous studies have proposed an antiapoptotic function for α-synuclein, based on overexpression experiments in cell lines. To explore whether α-synuclein has such a physiological function, we assessed the response of wild type or α-synuclein null neonatal mouse sympathetic neurons to nerve growth factor deprivation, a well-characterized stimulus of neuronal apoptosis. There was no difference in the rate of neuronal loss, neuronal apoptosis, or c-jun phosphorylation. Furthermore, the absence of α-synuclein did not alter the magnitude of naturally occurring cell death in vivo in substantia nigra pars compacta. Therefore, α-synuclein is unlikely to play a significant role in apoptotic signalling in catecholaminergic neurons of the neonatal nervous system.
Phosphorylation and processing of the quorum-sensing molecule autoinducer-2 in enteric bacteria.

Quorum sensing is a process of chemical communication that bacteria use to assess cell population density and synchronize behavior on a community-wide scale. Communication is mediated by signal molecules called autoinducers. The LuxS autoinducer synthase produces 4,5-dihydroxy-2,3-pentanedione (DPD), the precursor to a set of interconverting molecules that are generically called autoinducer-2 (AI-2). In enteric bacteria, AI-2 production induces the assembly of a transport apparatus (called the LuxS regulated (Lsr) transporter) that internalizes endogenously produced AI-2 as well as AI-2 produced by other bacterial species. AI-2 internalization is proposed to be a mechanism enteric bacteria employ to interfere with the signaling capabilities of neighboring species of bacteria. We have previously shown that Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium binds a specific cyclic derivative of DPD. Here we show that following internalization, the kinase LsrK phosphorylates carbon-5 of the open form of DPD. Phosphoryl...
A Mechanical Model for Cytoskeleton and Membrane Interactions in Neuronal Growth Cones

Revealing the molecular events of neuronal growth is critical to obtaining a deeper understanding of nervous system development, neural injury response, and neural tissue engineering. Central to this is the need to understand the mechanical interactions among the cytoskeleton and the cell membrane, and how these interactions affect the overall growth mechanics of neurons. Using ANSYS, the force produced by a cytoskeletal protein acting against a deformable membrane was modeled, and the deformation, stress, and strain were computed for the membrane. Parameters to represent the flexural rigidities of the well-studied actin and tubulin cytoskeletal proteins as well as the mechanical properties of neuronal growth cones were used in the simulations. Our model predicts that while a single actin filament is able to produce a force sufficient to cause membrane deformation and thus growth, it is also possible that the actin filament may cause the membrane to rupture, if a dilatational strain of more than 3–4% occurs. Additionally, neurotoxins or pharmaceuticals that alter the mechanical properties of either the cell membrane or cytoskeletal proteins could disrupt the balance of forces required for neurons to not only push out and grow correctly, but also to sustain their shapes as high-aspect-ratio structures once growth is complete. Understanding how cytoskeletal elements have coevolved mechanically with their respective cell membranes will yield insights into the events that gave rise to the sequences and quaternary structures of the major cytoskeletal elements.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Role of α-galactosidase in cell wall metabolism of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera) endosperm

The endosperm of developing date palm (Phoenix dactylifera) seeds was sampled at regular intervals from pollination to mature fruit. The galactose content of the cell wall mannans was assessed. Accumulation of α-galactosidase, a cell wall hydrolase, during endosperm development was analyzed by isoelectric focusing, sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in combination with Western blotting and immunolocalization on tissue sections. N-terminal amino acid sequence of the first 15 amino acids showed homology with amino acids 71 to 85 of the sequence reported for the mature guar protein. Four forms of the enzyme with isoelectric points ranging from 4.4 to 5.2 appeared by 11 weeks after pollination, and all forms remained until maturity. A major band of 41 kDa and several lower Mr, lightly staining bands cross reacted with the anti-α-galactosidase antiserum. The major band remained until maturity while the lightly staining bands gradually disappeared. In the mobilizing endosperm of germinated seeds, two darkly staining bands were observed at 41 and 40 kDa. At 9 weeks after pollination, the endosperm was cellular and the silver enhanced gold label localizing α-galactosidase occurred predominantly in the cell periphery. By 11 weeks, the label was present in the cytoplasm, but lacking on the thickening cell wall. α-Galactosidase accumulated in the protein bodies along with the storage protein. At 13 to 17 weeks, the label accumulated and then was lost in a centrifugal pattern (from the middle lamella inward) from the cell walls as they matured and was lost in the cytoplasm. The mature endosperm cells had intense label present only over the protein bodies and over the inner cell wall. These observations suggest that α-galactosidase is synthesized during endosperm development and unique forms of the enzyme are associated with cell wall maturation and cell wall mobilization in this species.
Membrane stress increases cation permeability in red cells

The human red cell is known to increase its cation permeability when deformed by mechanical forces. Light-scattering measurements were used to quantitate the cell deformation, as ellipticity under shear. Permeability to sodium and potassium was not proportional to the cell deformation. An ellipticity of 0.75 was required to increase the permeability of the membrane to cations, and flux thereafter increased rapidly as the limits of cell extension were reached. Induction of membrane curvature by chemical agents also did not increase cation permeability. These results indicate that membrane deformation per se does not increase permeability, and that membrane tension is the effector for increased cation permeability. This may be relevant to some cation permeabilities observed by patch clamping.
Application of an Improved Streamline Curvature Approach to a Modern, Two-Stage Transonic Fan: Comparison With Data and CFD

A streamline curvature method with improvements to key loss models is applied to a two-stage, low aspect ratio, transonic fan with design tip relative Mach number of approximately 1.65. Central to the improvements is the incorporation of a physics-based shock model. The attempt here is to capture the effects of key flow phenomena relative to the off-design performance of the fan. A quantitative analysis regarding solution sensitivities to model parameters that influence the key phenomena over a wide range of operating conditions is presented. Predictions are compared to performance determined from overall and interstage measurements, as well as from a three-dimensional, steady, Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes method applied across the first rotor. Overall and spanwise comparisons demonstrate that the improved model gives reasonable performance trending and generally accurate results. The method can be used to provide boundary conditions to higher-order solvers, or implemented within novel approaches using the streamline curvature method to explore complex engine-inlet integration issues, such as time-variant distortion.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
An Alternative to the Elementary School Science Specialist.

The need for extensive reforms in elementary school science is well known. Some educators have suggested that the employment of elementary school science specialists would eliminate most problems. This may not be an economically feasible option for many schools; especially those in rural and small districts, in the current era of budgetary stress. But this is an issue that cannot be ignored, and most of the nation's elementary schools need help if their students are to receive the scientific backgrounds needed for success in high school and college science studies. This report describes an effective alternative that has helped many elementary schools help themselves. The key to success was the central involvement of the school principal as a coequal with teachers in a program of local leadership and science content enrichment through inservice education.
New optimization heuristics

In a former paper we introduced a very effective new general purpose optimization principle. We compared this method, which we called threshold accepting (TA), with the well-known simulated annealing (SA) method for discrete optimization. The empirical results demonstrated the superiority of the TA algorithm. In further experiments with the TA principle we discovered two new powerful optimization heuristics: The great deluge algorithm (GDA) and the record-to-record travel (RRT). These algorithms resemble in their structure the formerly studied TA and the SA method. The differences lie in their acceptance rules for worse intermediate solutions. Both, the GDA and the RRT, are essentially one-parameter algorithms; i.e., for the achievement of best possible performance, a good choice is necessary only for a single parameter. This is in contrast for instance to the classical AS algorithm, where it is necessary to choose carefully a certain sequence of parameters, the so-called annealing schedule. The quality of the computational results obtained so far by RRT and GDA shows that the new algorithms behave equally well as TA and thus a fortiori better than SA.
TEM observations of compositional variations in AlxGa1−xAs grown by OMVPE

AlxGa1−xAs/GaAs quantum-well structures, grown by organometallic vapor phase epitaxy have been studied in cross-section using transmission electron microscopy. Compositional variations in the AlxGa1−xAs and the chemical abruptness of the heterojunction have been examined using structure factor contrast in dark-field images. The composition modulations are due to instabilities during the growth process rather than an intrinsic property of the ternay alloy AlxGa1−xAs.
Multisession cyberknife stereotactic radiosurgery of large, benign cranial base tumors: preliminary study.

OBJECTIVE: Although radiosurgery plays an important role in managing benign cranial base lesions, the potential for increased toxicity with single-session treatment of large tumors is a concern. In this retrospective study, we report the intermediate-term rate of local control, morbidity, and clinical outcomes of patients with large cranial base tumors treated with multisession stereotactic radiosurgery with the CyberKnife (Accuray, Inc., Sunnyvale, CA). METHODS: Between 1999 and 2008, 34 consecutive patients with large (>15 cm 3 ), benign cranial base tumors (21 meningiomas, 9 schwannomas, 4 glomus jugulare tumors) underwent primary or postoperative radiosurgical treatment using a multisession approach at Stanford University and were considered in this retrospective study. Forty-four percent of these patients had undergone previous subtotal surgical resection or radiotherapy. CyberKnife radiosurgery was delivered in 2 to 5 sessions (median, 3 sessions) to a median tumor volume of 19.3 cm 3 (range, 15.8―69.3 cm 3 ). The median marginal dose was 24 Gy (range, 18―25 Gy) prescribed to a median 78% isodose line. RESULTS: After a median clinical follow-up of 31 months (range, 12―77 months), 21 % of patients experienced clinical improvement of neurological symptoms, whereas neurological status remained unchanged among the rest. Four patients experienced prolonged use of glucocorticoids owing to transient neurological worsening and radiographic signs of radiation injury. No permanent neurotoxicity was seen. To date, all tumors remain locally controlled. CONCLUSION: Over our modest length of follow-up, multisession radiosurgery appears to be a safe and effective option for selected large, benign brain and cranial base lesions.
Rituximab for Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review

Background: Rituximab (RTX) is a biological agent used for the treatment of refractory rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The present systematic review and meta-analysis update the safety and efficacy of RTX for the treatment of RA in data published since 2006. Methods: We searched PubMed from January 2000 to March 2010, and recent ACR Annual meeting abstracts for randomized (RCT) and non-randomized, controlled clinical trials (CCT) investigating the effects of RTX in RA. Included studies were at least six months, included participants who were ≥16 years of age meeting ACR revised criteria for RA, and compared RTX in combination with any DMARD or RTX alone versus placebo or other DMARDs or any biologic. Studies were excluded if they included patients previously exposed to RTX. Two reviewers independently extracted the data, and disagreement was resolved by discussion and consensus. The primary outcome was the Disease Activity Score (DAS28). The secondary outcome was American College of Rheumatology (ACR50) response. The efficacy results were combined in a meta-analysis. The primary endpoint was analyzed as a continuous variable using a random-effects analysis model to account for the fact that intervention effects were not uniform across all the studies. The secondary endpoint was analyzed as an odds ratio using the Mantel-Haenszel estimator under a random effects model to account for heterogenity in intervention effects across the studies. Descriptive statistics were used to compare adverse event (AE) rates and included both randomized and observational trials. Results: For the meta-analysis of efficacy, we initially examined 45 studies, devolving to 6 studies after applying inclusion/exclusion criteria. 5 were RCTs and 1 was a controlled clinical trial. Improvements in DAS28 and ACR50 statistically favored RTX (Figure 1). For the safety evaluation, 22 studies (5 RCTs and 17 observational studies) were examined. Infusion-related reactions were higher in the RTX group (mean: 28%) vs. placebo (18%). Overall infection incidence was similar for both groups (RTX: 39 vs. placebo: 40%). Conclusions: Our updated review supports RTX as a safe and efficacious therapy for treatment-naive and methotrexate and/or TNF-alpha refractory patients with RA. AE’s revealed no more frequent infections than control. Future trials need to assess the longer-term efficacy and safety of RTX for RA, as well as the optimal time of re-administration of this agent.
The deceit continues: an updated literature review of Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy.

Abstract Objective: This article presents an updated review of the literature of Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy (Factitious Disorder by Proxy, MBP). Method: Four hundred fifty-one cases of MBP were analyzed from 154 medical and psychosocial journal articles. Results: Typical victims may be either males or females, usually 4 years of age or under. Victims averaged 21.8 months from onset of symptoms to diagnosis. Six percent of victims were dead, and 7.3% were judged to have suffered long-term or permanent injury. Twenty-five percent of victims’ known siblings are dead, and 61.3% of siblings had illnesses similar to those of the victim or which raised suspicions of MBP. Mothers were perpetrators in 76.5% of cases, but as knowledge of MBP grows a wider range of perpetrators is identified. In a small number of cases, MBP was found to co-exist with secondary gain or other inflicted injury. Conclusion: Although published cases form a non-random sample, they add to knowledge about MBP and validate claims that it occurs. More knowledge about non-medical aspects of MBP, and more pooling of data, is desirable.
Neuropsychological Assessment in a Case of Adult-Onset Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH)

We present a case of an individual diagnosed with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), an extremely rare and commonly fatal disorder characterized by rapid dysregulation of immune system processes. Typical age of onset is in childhood, with adult-onset occurring less frequently. The pathophysiology of this condition is characterized by a hyperinflammatory response with infiltration of visceral organs, lymph nodes, bone marrow, and the central nervous system. The clinical presentation has been documented in the extant medical literature. However, there appear to be no published reports of neuropsychological functioning in HLH patients. The patient we present here is a 28-year-old woman with 16 years of education who developed HLH subsequent to systemic lupus erythematosus flare-up. She was initially comatose for 3 weeks. Acute MRI reported multiple subcortical abnormalities, including the brainstem. The patient underwent chemotherapy, immunosuppresant, and steroid treatments. She underwent a neuropsyc...
The fifteenth- and twentieth-century colonization of the Basin of Mexico by the Great-tailed Grackle (Quiscalus mexicanus)

Historical evidence indicates that Great-tailed Grackles colonized the Basin of Mexico from the Gulf Coast lowlands in the fifteenth century. They were probably assisted by an intentional introduction, but colonization succeeded because of anthropogenic habitat alterations over the previous two centuries. During the Colonial period, grackles withdrew from the Basin, only to recolonize it in recent decades. This withdrawal was also due probably to changes in land use, including drainage of much of the water from the Basin's lakes.
MARCKS modulates radial progenitor placement, proliferation and organization in the developing cerebral cortex

The radial glial cells serve as neural progenitors and as a migratory guide for newborn neurons in the developing cerebral cortex. These functions require appropriate organization and proliferation of the polarized radial glial scaffold. Here, we demonstrate in mice that the myristoylated alanine-rich C-kinase substrate protein (MARCKS), a prominent cellular substrate for PKC, modulates radial glial placement and expansion. Loss of MARCKS results in ectopic collection of mitotically active radial progenitors away from the ventricular zone (VZ) in the upper cerebral wall. Apical restriction of key polarity complexes [CDC42, beta-catenin (CTNNB1), N-cadherin (CDH2), myosin IIB (MYOIIB), aPKCzeta, LGL, PAR3, pericentrin, PROM1] is lost. Furthermore, the radial glial scaffold in Marcks null cortex is compromised, with discontinuous, non-radial processes apparent throughout the cerebral wall and deformed, bulbous, unbranched end-feet at the basal ends. Further, the density of radial processes within the cerebral cortex is reduced. These deficits in radial glial development culminate in aberrant positioning of neurons and disrupted cortical lamination. Genetic rescue experiments demonstrate, surprisingly, that phosphorylation of MARCKS by PKC is not essential for the role of MARCKS in radial glial cell development. By contrast, the myristoylation domain of MARCKS needed for membrane association is essential for MARCKS function in radial glia. The membrane-associated targeting of MARCKS and the resultant polarized distribution of signaling complexes essential for apicobasal polarity may constitute a critical event in the appropriate placement, proliferation and organization of polarized radial glial scaffold in the developing cerebral cortex.
Supercapacitors and Batteries

Comparisons are made between the material requirements for supercapacitor electrodes and the cathode of a lithium-ion battery. The performances of the battery cathodes Li1+xFe2(SO4)2(PO4) and Li1+5 VMoO6 are compared to those for supercapacitor electrodes operating with 5.3 M H2SO4, Nafion 117, or 2 M KCl aqueous solution at pH 6.7. The use of a KCl aqueous electrolyte at mild pH allows stabilization of amorphous, hydrated electrode materials such as a-MnO2•nH2O that are not stable in 5.3 M H2SO4 or with Nafion 117. However, the larger K+ ion appears to reduce by a factor of three the theoretical capacity attainable with H+ ions.
Characterization of nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD) protein expression in primary murine microglia

We demonstrate that primary microglia express nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD) proteins that are thought to serve as novel pattern recognition receptors for bacterial peptidoglycan motifs. NOD2 is constitutively present in microglia and is upregulated following exposure to Borrelia burgdorferi or Neisseria meningitidis. Its expression is also elevated following exposure to Toll-like receptor (TLR) ligands and muramyl dipeptide (MDP), a putative ligand for NOD2. Microglia express essential downstream effector molecules for NOD2-mediated cell responses, and MDP augments TLR ligand-induced inflammatory cytokine production. Together these data suggest that NOD2 may contribute to microglial immune responses to bacterial pathogens.
A rapid method for chloroplast isolation from the green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii

This method has been developed to yield highly purified intact chloroplasts from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. This procedure involves breaking cell-wall-deficient cells by passage through a narrow-bore syringe needle and purifying the intact chloroplasts by differential centrifugation and Percoll gradient centrifugation. This procedure can be completed in less than 3 h and is capable of generating relatively high yields of chloroplasts that should be useful for researchers studying the biochemistry and cell biology of C. reinhardtii chloroplasts.
Statistical mechanics of light elements at high pressure. IV - A model free energy for the metallic phase

A large quantity of data on the thermodynamic properties of hydrogen-helium metallic liquids have been obtained in extended computer calculations in which a Monte Carlo code essentially identical to that described by Hubbard (1972) was used. A model free energy for metallic hydrogen with a relatively small mass fraction of helium is discussed, taking into account the definition of variables, a procedure for choosing the free energy, values for the fitting parameters, and the evaluation of the entropy constants. Possibilities concerning a use of the obtained data in studies of the interiors of the outer planets are briefly considered.
A comparison of the cost of local versus general anesthesia for laparoscopic sterilization in an operating room setting.

Abstract Objective. To compare the charges between laparoscopic sterilization performed under either local or general anesthesia in a traditional operating room setting with anesthesia personnel in attendance. Design. A retrospective review of charges. Setting. The Regional Medical Center, Memphis, Tennessee. Patients. Sixty-five women undergoing laparoscopic sterilization, 33 under local and 32 under general anesthesia. Interventions. Laparoscopic sterilization. Measurements and Main Results. Patient demographics, history of pelvic inflammatory disease, and history of previous surgery were similar for both groups. Operating room and recovery room times were shorter for patients whose procedures were performed under local anesthesia. Flat-rate fee schedules reduced the cost savings for cases performed under local anesthesia to $529 dollars per case, with 76% ($402) of the savings related to anesthetic drugs or equipment. Conclusion. Although these savings appear minimal on a per case basis, if 50% of the approximately 210,000 laparoscopic sterilizations performed in the United States each year were performed under local anesthesia, a savings of over $55 million could be achieved (105,000 cases X $529=$55,545,000). This would result in substantial overall monetary savings to the health care system.
Timetables and Scheduling: On the Social Organization of Time*

An analysis of the social organization of time, done through the main institutions and processes that govern the temporal regulation of social life. namely timetables and scheduling. The conventional basis of our standard time orientation is discussed along with the social order underlying regular patterns relating to the fundamental temporal features of social events (duration, sequence. timing, tempo), and issues concerning scheduling.
Action Schemes: Questions and Suggestions

In “Artefacts Without Agency,” Christian Illies and Anthonie Meijers articulate the basic framework of a notion identified as “Action Schemes.” We identify an internal inconsistency in their account and offer concrete suggestions on how to avoid it.
Microtubule gelation-contraction: essential components and relation to slow axonal transport

Preparations of microtubule proteins isolated by assembly and disassembly undergo gelation-contraction after addition of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). A particulate fraction from these preparations that is required, along with purified tubulin, to produce ATP-dependent microtubule gelation-contraction in vitro has been isolated. The particulates exhibited microtubule-stimulated adenosine triphosphatase activity and moved slowly (about 1 micrometer per minute) along microtubule walls in the presence of ATP. The particulates contained tubulin, neurofilament, and spectrin polypeptides. The composition, solubility, and motility of the particulates are consistent with those of slow component a of axonal transport.
Is segmental sounder

During the first 60 years of this century, a seemingly logical and effective operation for carcinoma of the colon was developed. The basic features of the operation are early isolation of the malignancy, wide lymphadenectomy, excision of involved adjacent organs when indicated, and adequate colonic resection. In 1977 a report appeared that purported to show that less radical procedures were equally effective in curing the disease and associated with less morbidity than the more extensive operation. This paper questions the validity of that report and gives other reported data which tend to refute that view. However, all reported series are retrospective and therefore the answer to the question posed in the title is: “We don't really know.” A plea is made for a sponsored, randomized, prospective trial to see if a lesser operation will provide the same cure rate.
Using technology to enhance early childhood learning: The 100 days of school project

This study describes the ways in which 6 teachers in an urban elementary school in the United States integrated technology within a common and familiar theme among lower grade (K-2) students, named the 100 Days of School. It also investigates the impact of technology integration on student learning. The findings of the study indicate that teachers were successful in integrating technology within the 100 Days of School project in developmentally appropriate ways. Results of the study also demonstrate that use of technology promoted increased student motivation, enhanced learning in areas such as literacy, mathematics, and social studies, fostered social interaction, and built student confidence level. Critical factors that affected the success of the project included teacher professional development and administrative support. Findings of this study have implications for schools and districts interested in infusing technology in primary education.
Photoelectrochemistry and solar energy: progress, promise and problems

Abstract Progress in the development of photoelectrochemical (PEC) systems and improvements in stability and efficiency of semiconductor electrodes are described. Strategies for studying the semiconductor/solution interface and new structures for PEC devices to yield higher photovoltages and less expensive systens are suggested.
Design considerations for field studies of changes in indoor air pollution due to improved stoves

Monitoring the actual improvements in indoor air quality as a result of installation of improved stoves is critical in assessment of the effectiveness of improved stove interventions. Households are complicated places, however – many things that affect air pollution are the same in households within a geographically distinct locality, but there are many factors that are different. Thus, to be sure that any air pollution differences that might be measured in households with different types of stoves are really attributable to true differences and are not merely due to natural variations unrelated to the stoves, it is necessary to follow appropriate sampling designs with sufficient numbers of measurements, or a large enough sample size. This paper presents a summary of cross-sectional and before-and-after statistical designs to evaluate the effectiveness of an improved biomass or other solid-fuel stove as the best indication of how much benefit has actually been achieved by the stove in practice in households under normal conditions. It also highlights considerations when selecting one design over another, and key considerations in lowering the samples sizes required to demonstrate statistically significant differences by reducing variation. An interactive website using Excel functions is available for facilitating calculations.
The construct validity of root-mean-square error for quantifying smooth-pursuit eye tracking abnormalities in schizophrenia

Smooth-pursuit eye tracking abnormalities have been consistently observed among schizophrenia patients and their relatives (Iacono and Clementz 1993; Levy et al 1993). Using a statistical technique called mixture analysis, recent studies have demonstrated that distributions of both the patients' and their relatives' ocular motor data are best characterized by two distinct components (Blackwood et al 1991; Clementz et al 1992; Gibbons et al 1984; Iacono et al 1992; Ross et al in press; Sweeney et al 1993). One component overlaps the scoring distribution of normal subjects fairly closely, whereas the other component captures subjects with poor eye tracking performance. The pattern of results suggests that ocular motor measures are capturing differences in kind among schizophrenia subjects, and that these differences are indexing biologically distinct subgroups of patients in whose families ocular motor abnormalities are an indicator of vulnerability for some form of this illness. This conclusion is consistent with a report suggesting linkage between eye tracking abnormalities and markers on chromosome 6 (Arolt et al 1995; see also Wang et al 1995). The above results, which rely primarily on "global" measures of eye tracking performance, should be considered in light of current trends to use "specific" measures, such as saccadic performance and the calculation of smooth pursuit gain, to