cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Personal and Vocational Development in High School Students.

Abstract The purpose of this research was to test the effectiveness of a high school psychology course (16 weeks) in promoting positive personal and vocational development. One hundred ten junior students who were enrolled in a psychology course (4 sections) served as experimental subjects ( S s). Ninety-nine juniors and seniors from study halls were used as control S s. Criterion measures consisted of the Personal Orientation Inventory and the Vocational Maturity Scale . Besides pre- and postdata, a three-month followup was also included. The statistical analysis consisted of a multiple linear regression model. Restrictions (sex, aptitude, and gpa) were imposed upon the model to control statistically for sources of variances affecting the relationship between treatment and criteria. Significance was set at or beyond the .05 level of probability. The findings suggest that the students in the psychology course showed more positive mental health and more vocational maturity than students in the control group. The change in the treatment conditions for the three criterion measures continued in the expected direction after a three-month period of time.
Recent Developments in Macroscopic Measurement of Multicomponent Gas Adsorption Equilibria, Kinetics, and Heats

Most practical applications of adsorption technology for gas separation and purification deal with multicomponent feed gas mixtures. The key input variables for the design and optimization of such separation processes are the multicomponent gas adsorption equilibria, kinetics, and isosteric heats. Recent advances in the measurement of these properties for multicomponent systems by macroscopic methods are discussed. The isothermal isotope exchange technique for measurement of multicomponent gas equilibria and kinetics, and micro-calorimetry for direct measurement of component isosteric heats from gas mixtures are recommended.
MRI in cerebral intraventricular hemorrhage: analysis of 50 consecutive cases

MRI of intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH) has not been studied formally. We aimed to describe the degradation rate and patterns shown on 1.5 T MRI in IVH, comparing them to other coexisting brain hemorrhage. We studied 50 consecutive cases using T1-, proton-density, and T2-weighted images. IVH was seen in two forms: layered (free-flowing in ventricles) (37 cases) and/or clotted (31). Both were best shown by proton-density image. Layered IVH was seen in the dependent portions of the lateral ventricles with fluid (“blood-CSF”) levels, degrading more slowly than both clotted IVH and intraparenchymal hemorrhages (IPH) (acute blood products persisting for several more days; P < 0.05). Clotted IVH degraded at a rate comparable to IPH. IVH cleared rapidly and did not form hemosiderin. Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) cleared faster and was less conspicuous than IVH. Hypertensive (22), aneurysmal (11), traumatic (2), idiopathic (9), or vascular malformation-related (6) IVH were seen. IVH coexisted with IPH (30) or SAH (12), or both (12). The high rate of layering with blood-CSF levels in IVH is most likely due to different densities of blood components and CSF and the fibrinolytic capability of the latter. Delayed degradation of layered IVH probably reflects high intra-ventricular oxygen and glucose content. Further study is necessary to determine if MRI characteristics of IVH are helpful in excluding other intraventricular diseases such as neoplasia and pyocephalus.
Selective inhibition by ethanol of glutamate-stimulated cyclic GMP production in primary cultures of cerebellar granule cells

In primary cultures of cerebellar granule cells of the rat, the accumulation of cyclic GMP was stimulated by glutamate, acting at the N-methyl-D-aspartate recognition site, and by atrial natriuretic factor. The response to glutamate was calcium-dependent, while the response to atrial natriuretic factor was not. Ethanol inhibited the accumulation of cyclic GMP in response to both glutamate and atrial natriuretic factor. However, the response to glutamate was much more sensitive to ethanol, with 30-40% inhibition occurring at 50 mM ethanol. Substantial inhibition of the response to atrial natriuretic factor was observed only at concentrations of ethanol of 200 mM or larger. The data suggest that a major site of action of ethanol in inhibiting the accumulation of cyclic GMP is the coupling of the glutamate receptor to soluble guanylate cyclase. The effect of ethanol on agonist-activated activity of guanylate cyclase may contribute to the pharmacological action of ethanol in vivo.
Thermodynamic stability of oxide, nitride, and carbide coating materials in liquid Sn-25Li

Tin-lithium (Sn- Li) has been identified as a candidate liquid metal coolant for fusion power reactors. Sn-Li coolants offer a number of advantages compared with pure lithium. The vapor pressure of Sn 25Li (0.25 Li mol fraction) is a factor of ∼1000 lower than that of pure Li, which allows an increase in coolant temperatures by as much as 450 K. Experimental data of the stability of ceramic materials in Sn- Li is scarce. The thermodynamic stability of various oxides, carbides, and nitrides in Sn Li is estimated as a function of lithium composition and temperature at saturated solute concentrations by evaluating the Gibbs free energy of reaction. (Δ r G). At 773 K most of the studied nitrides, carbides, and some oxides were found to be stable (Δ r G > 0). However, oxides of Fe-based alloys, such as Cr 2 O 3 and Fe 2 O 3 were found to be unstable (Δ r G < 0) for all lithium compositions.
Heterogeneous Material Mechanics at Various Scales

Some contemporary problems involving the mechanics of materials will be examined at widely different length scales. The three scales chosen are i) the near atomic scale, ii) an intermediate range of the order of microns, and iii) large scale macro or structural behavior. An additional theme transcending these scales will be carbon based, or carbon like heterogeneous material behavior. At the near atomic scale, examples are chosen from the various forms that elemental carbon can take including diamond, graphite, newly discovered fullerenes, and ideal carbon fibers. Examples at the intermediate length scale feature low density materials, since typical cell sizes are about a micron or somewhat larger or smaller. The effect of microstructure becomes the dominant and determining characteristic of such materials. A hierarchy of microstructures will be revealed which gives a coherent connection between microstructure and mechanical behavior. Finally, at the macroscale, involving structural behavior, a methodology for the life prediction of fiber dominated, graphite epoxy composites will be given. These three classes of problems are intended to show that virtually equal opportunities for meaningful research contribution occur across the spectrum of length scales.
Microlocal analysis of GTD-based SAR models

We show how to apply the techniques of microlocal analysis to the Potter-Moses attributed scattering center model, which is based on the Geometrical Theory of Diffraction (GTD). The microlocal methods enable us to determine how scattering centers will appear in the radar data. We show also how to extend the model to some multiple-scattering events, and we apply the microlocal techniques to the extended model.
Training Experiences Essential for Obtaining a Forensic Psychology Postdoctoral Fellowship

Sixteen forensic psychology postdoctoral fellowships are listed in the 2009–2010 American Psychology–Law Society postdoctoral directory (Proctor & Malesky, 2009). Obtaining one of these fellowships can be challenging, given their relatively small number and competitive applicant pool. Further, little is known about what training directors value in applicants. Fellowship directors provided recommendations for individuals desiring a position at their training site as part of this study. Suggestions included acquiring clinical experience working with individuals with severe mental illness and having a strong psychological assessment background. Additional recommendations for applicants desiring postdoctoral forensic placements are discussed.
Effect of DDT or Parathion on condition avoidance response of offspring from DDT or Parathion treated mothers

The offspring of female mice treated with 2.5 mg/kg DDT during the second or third trimester of pregnancy showed a delayed acquisition of the conditioned avoidance response. If DDT was given in the first trimester, or if 3 mg/kg of Parathion was given during the pregnancy, no effect on the conditioned avoidance response of the off-spring was seen.
Advocacy in the IEP Process: Strengths-Based School Counseling in Action:

As the number of students in schools receiving special education services rises, the need for advocacy for these students increases as well. Because school counselors already possess specialized tr...
Management of Perforation Injuries During and Following Penile Prosthesis Surgery

Abstract Introduction Distal extrusion of penile prosthesis cylinders is a challenging problem that is associated with pain and imminent erosion through penile skin. Distal extrusion and other perforation injuries, including crural and urethral, are other manifestations of tunica albuginea injuries that result in poor clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction. Aim A description of Dr. John Mulcahy's landmark article for management of lateral extrusion is presented along with discussion of techniques for managing other types of perforation injuries associated with penile implants. Methods Dr. Mulcahy's original article is reviewed and critiqued. Surgical methods to manage perforation injuries are discussed. Main Outcomes Measures The main outcome measures used were the review of original article, subsequent articles, and commentary by Dr. Mulcahy. Results Knowledge of techniques for management intraoperative and postoperative complications related to tunical perforation is necessary for implant surgeons. Conclusions Perforation injuries are challenging noninfectious complications of penile prosthesis surgery. Familiarity with techniques to manage these problems is essential for ensuring good outcomes and patient satisfaction. Stember DS, Kohler TS, Morey AF. Management of perforation injuries during and following penile prosthesis surgery. J Sex Med 2015;12(suppl 7):456–461.
PCR differential display identifies a rat brain mRNA that is transcriptionally regulated by cocaine and amphetamine.

involves alterations in specific patterns of gene expression. In order to screen for brain region specific mRNAs which are transcriptionally regulated by acute cocaine and amphetamine, PCR differential display was employed. This approach identified a previously uncharacterized mRNA whose relative levels in the striatum are induced four- to fivefold by acute psychomotor stimulant administration. Isolation and characterization of corresponding cDNA clones resulted in complete nucleotide sequence analysis, including prediction of the encoded protein product. Alternate polyA site utilization in the predicted 3′ noncoding region results in the appearance of an RNA doublet, approximately 700 and 900 bases in length, following Northern analysis. A presumed alternate splicing event further generates diversity within the transcripts, and results in the presence or absence of an in-frame 39 base insert within the putative protein coding region. As a result, the predicted translation products are either 129 or 116 amino acids in length. A common hydrophobic leader sequence at the amino terminus is present within each predicted polypeptide, suggesting that the protein product is targeted for entry into the secretory pathway. Basal expression of the RNA doublet is limited to neuroendocrine tissues, further implying that the protein product plays a functional role in both neuronal and endocrine tissues.
An Instance-Based Structured Object Oriented Method for Co-analysis/Co-design of Concurrent Embedded Systems

The current object-oriented class-based approaches to hardware/software co-analysis/co-design of embedded systems are limited in their abilities to properly capture the structure of individual instances of hardware and software components and their interactions. This paper discusses a methodology to extend a structured object-oriented hardware/software co-design methodology based on the high order object-oriented modeling technique (HOOMT) to incorporate instance-based object and behavioral models. The instance-based structured object-oriented methodology will enable description of a system's structure based on individual instances of hardware and software components and specification of the interactions among them. In addition, lattices are introduced to specify the concurrent behavior of hardware/software components in a concurrent embedded system. These additions further enhance the method's capability of providing a precise set of specifications that can be understood easily by both hardware and software designers in co-analysis/co-design. The methodology has been applied to the specification of hardware and software of a simulated advanced power grid control system
Female Midlife Issues in Prose and Poetry

Although there are important similarities between the life courses of men and women, there are significant differences as well. In this chapter we explore aspects of these differences. If the study of midlife is a frontier, the study of women in midlife is the remotest outpost on that frontier because most major scientific studies to date have concentrated on men. However, important research results with regard to women are beginning to appear.
Temperature Analysis of Threshold Current in Infrared Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Lasers

The temperature dependence of threshold current Ith in vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs) can be approximated by the equation Ith(T)=alpha+beta(T-Tmin)2 , where Tmin is the temperature of lowest Ith,alpha and beta are parameters, and temperature is T. We compare the temperature dependence of threshold current in VCSELs with GaAs, InGaAs, and strain compensated InGaAs-GaAsP quantum wells. From our analysis we find the coefficient beta is related to the gain properties of the quantum well, and is shown to serve as a benchmark for the VCSEL temperature sensitivity. The incorporation of strain-compensated high-barrier GaAsP layers in the active region of 980-nm VCSELs is demonstrated to reduce the threshold dependence on temperature
Video-on-demand broadcasting protocols: a comprehensive study

Broadcasting protocols are proved to be efficient for transmitting most of the popular videos in video-on-demand systems. We propose a generalized analytical approach to evaluate the efficiency of the broadcasting protocols and derive the theoretical lower bandwidth requirement bound for any periodic broadcasting protocols. By means of the proposed analytical tool-temporal-bandwidth map, the approach can be used to direct the design of periodic broadcasting protocols to achieve different goals, e.g., server bandwidth requirement, client waiting time, client I/O bandwidth requirement etc. As the most important performance index in a VOD system is the required server bandwidth, we give the solution to achieve the optimal bandwidth efficiency given client waiting time requirement and the length of the video. To take into account the popular compressed video with variable bit rate, the optimal approach is applied readily to the VBR videos and can achieve zero loss and best bandwidth efficiency. We give a proof why existing techniques such as smoothing and prefetching is not necessary and in some cases inefficient in broadcasting protocols. We also discuss how broadcasting schemes can be tailored to support true and interactive VOD service. An insightful comparison between broadcasting and multicasting schemes is also given.
A Locking Mechanism Regulates RNA Synthesis and Host Protein Interaction by the Hepatitis C Virus Polymerase

Mutational analysis of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) template channel identified two residues, Trp397 and His428, which are required for de novo initiation but not for extension from a primer. These two residues interact with the Δ1 loop on the surface of the RdRp. A deletion within the Δ1 loop also resulted in comparable activities. The mutant proteins exhibit increased double-stranded RNA binding compared with the wild type, suggesting that the Δ1 loop serves as a flexible locking mechanism to regulate the conformations needed for de novo initiation and for elongative RNA synthesis. A similar locking motif can be found in other viral RdRps. Products associated with the open conformation of the HCV RdRp were inhibited by interaction with the retinoblastoma protein but not cyclophilin A. Different conformations of the HCV RdRp can thus affect RNA synthesis and interaction with cellular proteins.
Behavioral Evaluation of Red-eared Slider Turtles (Trachemys scripta elegans) Administered Either Morphine or Butorphanol Following Unilateral Gonadectomy

Abstract Pain and analgesia are poorly understood in reptiles, which are commonly maintained in zoological institutions and as laboratory and companion animals. Thus, we developed a behavioral ethogram to evaluate pre-operative and post-operative responses to a thermal stimulus, feeding, movement, and breathing in red-eared slider turtles (Trachemys scripta elegans). We hypothesized that opioid drug administration would allow for a more rapid return to pre-operative behavior following a unilateral orchidectomy. The antinociceptive efficacy of morphine (2 mg/kg SC; mu-opioid receptor agonist) and butorphanol (20 mg/kg SC; mixed kappa-opioid receptor agonist and mu-opioid receptor antagonist) were evaluated because of their extensive use as analgesics in veterinary medicine. Compared to sham-saline turtles, surgery-saline turtles exhibited severely depressed feeding and increased movement at 2–8 h postoperation. Butorphanol did not alter feeding, movement, or breathing compared to saline in both sham- and s...
A little knowledge goes a long way: faster detection of compromised data in 2-D tables

A reexamination is made of the problem of protecting sensitive data in an n by n table of integer statistics, when the nonsensitive data are made public along with the row and column sums for the table. Consideration is given to the problem of computing the tightest upper bounds on the values of sensitive (undisclosed) cells. These bounds, together with tightest lower bounds (which can be efficiently computed), define precisely the smallest intervals that an adversary can deduce for the missing sensitive cell values. Small intervals compromise the security of the undisclosed data, and in some cases violate laws on public data disclosure. It is observed that the number of initial needed bounds can be reduced from O(n log n) to 2n-1 by exploiting a recent result of C.K. Cheung and T.C. Hu (1988). >
Meso-scale planning for multi-agent navigation

We introduce a new concept; meso-scale planning in real-time multi-agent navigation. Whereas many traditional approaches to multi-agent navigation typically consist of two-levels - a macro-scale level providing agents with a global direction of motion around (large) static obstacles, and a micro-scale level in which agents seek to avoid collision with other agents - our approach adds a meso-scale level to give agents realistic behavior in scenarios where groups of other agents (e.g. families or crowds in a virtual world) form coherent entities. Rather than moving straight through such groups, our approach lets agents move around them. Our formulation considers each agent as an individual that may perceive sets of other agents as a group, and plans its motion accordingly. We base our approach on the velocity obstacle concept, and we show using simulation results that our method dramatically improves the quality of the trajectories computed for the agents.
A comparison of public and community leader attitudes toward local TV programming needs

Under current FCC guidelines, it is necessary for a broadcasting station to ascertain the needs and wants of its audience or potential audience. This study explores the differences expressed by community leaders and by the general public. Dr. Baldwin is associate professor in the Department of Television and Radio and Dr. Greenberg is associate professor in the Department of Communication at Michigan State University.
Never trust a drug that can be pronounced in three different ways: medication errors in anaesthesia

Medication errors cause patient death or injury. The worst medication errors involve patient-adverse events with an unknown medication error. This leads to wrong factors being incorrectly blamed and to the development of an illogical adverse event preventive protocol. Most medication errors cause no patient harm. There is a higher risk of medication errors occurring in paediatric than in adult anaesthesia as more drugs need to be diluted. 1
A signature match processor architecture for network intrusion detection

In this paper, we introduce a novel architecture for a hardware based network intrusion detection system (NIDS). NIDSs are becoming critical components of the network infrastructure as they serve as a key line of defense in network protection. However, current methods are much too compute intensive and cannot begin to meet the bandwidth requirements of a moderate sized corporate network. Thus, hardware techniques are desired to speed up network processing. This paper introduces a FPGA based signature match processor that can serve as the core of a hardware based NIDS. The signature match processor's key feature is a CAM-based cellular processor architecture that can match strings in an area efficient manner. Using a unique binary tree structure, we are also able to generate priority encoded addresses corresponding to multiple signature matches.
The ‘pear of anguish’: Truth, torture and dark medievalism:

This article examines the historical truth of the ‘pear of anguish’ – a common exhibit in European dungeon museums that has recently made its way into the popular imagination by way of TV shows and internet sites. Like the ‘chastity belt’ before it, the ‘pear of anguish’ evidences the ‘dark medievalism’ of the modern consciousness, a dystopian view of the Middle Ages that imagines pre-Reformation Europe as a nexus of cruelty and sexual perversion. The historical reality, however, traced here through commentaries and catalogues from the past few centuries, would seem to indicate that both the device itself and its imagined function are creations of the modern world.
A physics-based compact model for CIGS and CdTe solar cells: From voltage-dependent carrier collection to light-enhanced reverse breakdown

In this paper, we develop a physics-based compact model for CIGS and CdTe heterojunction solar cells that attributes the failure of superposition to voltage-dependent carrier collection in the absorber layer, and interprets light-enhanced reverse breakdown as a consequence of tunneling-assisted Poole-Frenkel conduction. The temperature dependence of the model is validated against both simulation and experimental data for the entire range of bias conditions. The model can be used to characterize device parameters, optimize new designs, and most importantly, predict performance and reliability of solar panels including the effects of self-heating and reverse breakdown due to partial-shading degradation.
Regenerative Supervision: A Restorative Approach for Counsellors Impacted by Vicarious Trauma

Counsellors providing services for clients with traumatic material are vulnerable to vicariously experiencing emotional aspects of their clients’ experiences (Jordan, 2010). This vicarious experiencing, a phenomenon known as vicarious trauma (VT), can impact the counsellor’s functioning. The Regenerative Model is an expressive arts model of counselling supervision well-suited for processing the effects of VT. This article provides an overview of VT and its related phenomenon, vicarious posttraumatic growth (VPTG). An explanation follows of how the Regenerative Model may be employed to mitigate the effects of VT while facilitating development of VPTG. Case examples are included.
Cardiac troponin assays: analytical issues and clinical reference range cutpoints.

A recently published consensus document from the European Society of Cardiology and American College of Cardiology emphasized the unique role cardiac troponin monitoring plays in redefining acute myocardial infarction. The cardiology community has now established criteria to define both the reference cutpoints and acceptable imprecision for troponin assays, which complement previous recommendations by the laboratory community. This article will review the analytical issue confronting laboratories, clinicians, and industry regarding troponin assay standardization, assay imprecision, and how clinical decision cutpoints should be established and implemented for clinical practice.
Axitinib in the treatment of renal cell carcinoma: patient selection and perspectives

BACKGROUND Axitinib is a next-generation, selective tyrosine kinase inhibitor targeting the vascular endothelial growth factor receptors. It is approved for the treatment of metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) based on a demonstrated progression-free survival advantage over sorafenib in the second-line treatment setting. However, given the variety of available targeted therapies for mRCC, appropriate patient selection for the available therapies remains a significant clinical challenge. PURPOSE This review summarizes the available evidence on the clinical, toxicity, and pharmacologic considerations for determining appropriate patient selection for axitinib therapy. In addition, it describes recent data on the use of predictive biomarkers to guide clinical management. This paper consists of material obtained via PubMed and Medline literature searches through October 2015. CONCLUSION Axitinib has a well-established role in the management of mRCC. Consistent clinical efficacy has been demonstrated across prognostic risk groups and prior therapeutic exposures. Although axitinib is generally well tolerated, appropriate toxicity management is critical to maximizing drug delivery and optimizing treatment outcomes. Although incident hypertension has been associated with improved clinical outcomes on axitinib, there are currently no validated clinical or genetic predictive biomarkers to guide patient selection.
“When Dans Weren't Damned: The Public Power Crusade and Visions of the Good Life in the Pacific Northwest in the 1930s”

McPhee maintains that conservationists who remain rational in the face of oil spills "mysteriously go insane at even the thought of a dam." How can this violent reaction to dams be explained? Possibly, suggests McPhee, it is "because rivers are the ultimate metaphors of existence, and dams destroy rivers. Humiliating nature, a dam is evil-placed and solid."' Historical accounts of early 20th century conservation have emphasized the controversial decision to dam the Tuolumne River
Testing the Effects of Procedural Justice and Overaccommodation in Traffic Stops: A Randomized Experiment

Research shows that perceptions of procedural justice influence people’s trust, confidence, and obligation to obey law and legal authorities as well as their willingness to cooperate with and support legal authorities. Interpersonal interaction styles that are central to procedural justice theory also play a key role in communication accommodation theory (CAT). Based on video clips depicting a police traffic stop, we use a randomized experiment to test the effects of procedural justice and overaccommodation on trust in police, willingness to cooperate with police, and obligation to obey police and the law. The results demonstrate that procedural justice has more powerful effects than overaccommodation on reported trust and confidence in the officer, as well as respondents’ obligation to obey and willingness to cooperate with the officer. Moreover, although procedural justice generated strong effects on encounter-specific attitudes, it did not exert any effect on more general attitudes toward police.
In Combination of Perineum-anoplasty and Internal Fistula Repairment Simultaneous Applied to Treat the Congenital Non-anus Complicated with Rectal Navicular Fossa Fistula

Objectives To summarize the treatment of 18 cases of congenital non -anus complicated with rectal navicular fossa fistula in the past 5 years and to determine a simple and effective operation method. Methods Perineal anoplasty was carried out, an orifice of the internal fistula in the anterior wall was found and the rectal membrane along the fistula was cut. A mucosas sleeve tube was formed, than vertically ligatured the muscular membrane at the fistula orifice. Finally, sutured the anterior wall of the rectum with the perineal skin. Two or three weeks after the operation, anus dilation was done. Results All children were followed up either in person or by telephones. Of the 18 cases, 17 recovered fully after hospitalization. Recurrence of the fistula was found in only one case and was given fistula repairment one year after the first operation. All children showed satisfactory bowl movement. Conclusion This is a simple and effective operation method, which can rectify children suffering from congenital non -anus complicated with navicular fossa fistula at an early age through only one operation.
Expanding the Peak Regulation Margin of Heating Unitsby Using Heat Storage Technology

The utilization situation of heat storage technology home and abroad were introduced,and the study was also carried out on the application of heat storage technology in thermal power plant.A method of expanding peak regulation ability was purposed.Using this method,large capacity of heating units in winter could be used for peak regulation of power grid,so it is a feasible measure for supplying steady power,reducing energy consumption and wind power acceptance.
SU-C-201-02: Dosimetric Verification of SBRT with FFF-VMAT Using a 3-D Radiochromic/Optical-CT Dosimetry System

Purpose: With an increasing use of small field size and high dose rate irradiation in the advances of radiotherapy techniques, such as stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), an in-depth quality assurance (QA) system is required. The purpose of this study is to investigate a high resolution optical CT-based 3D radiochromic dosimetry system for SBRT with intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and flattening filter free (FFF) volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT). Methods: Cylindrical PRESAGE radiochromic dosimeters of 10cm height and 11cm diameter were used to validate SBRT. Four external landmarks were placed on the surface of each dosimeter to define the isocenter of target. SBRT plans were delivered using a Varian TrueBeam™ linear accelerator (LINAC). Three validation plans, SBRT with IMRT (6MV 600MU/min), FFF-VMAT (10MV 2400MU/min), and mixed FFF-VMAT (6MV 1400MU/min, 10MV 2400MU/min), were delivered to the PRESAGE dosimeters. Each irradiated PRESAGE dosimeter was scanned using a single laser beam optical CT scanner and reconstructed with a 1mm × 1mm high spatial resolution. The comparison of measured dose distributions of irradiated PRESAGE dosimeters to those calculated by Pinnacle3 treatment planning system (TPS) were performed with a 10% dose threshold, 3% dose difference (DD), and 3mm distance-to-agreement (DTA) Gamma criteria. Results: The average pass rates for the gamma comparisons between PRESAGE and Pinnacle3 in the transverse, sagittal, coronal planes were 94.6%, 95.9%, and 96.4% for SBRT with IMRT, FFF-VMAT, and mixed FFF-VMAT plans, respectively. A good agreement of the isodose distributions of those comparisons were shown at the isodose lines 50%, 70%, 80%, 90% and 98%. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the feasibility of the high resolution optical CT-based 3D radiochromic dosimetry system for validation of SBRT with IMRT and FFF-VMAT. This dosimetry system offers higher precision QA with 3D dose information for small beams compared to what is currently available.
The Political Theology of Laissez-Faire: From Philia to Self-Love in Commercial Society

This essay examines the neglected theological origins of early economic discourse. Against accounts emphasizing the secular and scientific foundations of classical political economy, I examine the origins of economic thought in religious debates concerning the nature of human love and divine grace. Specifically, the theorization of what was called “commercial society” in the eighteenth-century depended upon two general theoretical innovations, each of which began in the post-Hobbesian social contract tradition. The first was a conception of the oeconomy understood as a domain of non-political “society,” based on pre-political property relations and sub-political voluntary associations of a primarily commercial variety, reflecting divinely ordained social progress. The second was the transformation of the ancient concept of philia to stress the self-love underlying all human relationships and the necessary role of divine grace in generating social integration. The idea that an “invisible” mechanism – the m...
Fiscal Issues in Macroeconomic Stabilization: A Structuralist Perspective

This paper is about fiscal policy issues that arise during macroeconomic stabilization in developing economies. The empirical background comes from a recent study of stabilization episodes in 18 countries, organized by the World Institute for Development Economics Research (WIDER) in Helsinki. The results are reviewed in a summary monograph by Taylor (1988), and the country papers are available from WIDER. Fiscal policy cannot be described outside a macroeconomic framework. Section 1 sets out the basics, as they apply in the WIDER studies. Section 2 takes up three theories about the fiscal deficit — it may rise for political or structural reasons, or perhaps because the relevant authorities want to maximize revenue from the inflation tax. Section 3 is about the effects of deficit reduction, a central component of orthodox stabilization packages. Section 4 takes up other fiscal topics brought up in the WIDER country papers. Brief conclusions appear in Section 5.
Competencies, Clusters, and Star Performance at a Leading PE Firm

Using the real-world laboratory of one leading private equity (PE) firm, the author attempts to directly connect professional competencies to performance outcomes and, more specifically, to skewed performance distributions. Although no published studies focus on the shape of PE return distributions, data presented in multiple studies indicate that returns are right-skewed at the level of funds and of individual portfolio company investments. At both levels, a small percentage of actors drive an outsized portion of returns. This article finds that professionals who lead outperforming investments tend to excel in three different clusters of competencies and related style elements (identifiable behaviors that may be based on groups of competencies). They display more robust and varied toolkits within each cluster than do professionals who lead underperformers, and these mixes of competencies contribute to investment outcomes in identifiable ways.
Placental Growth Factor Prevents Erythroid Suppression by Inflammatory Mediators.

Abstract Although sickle cell anemia is the result of an abnormality in the beta globin chain of hemoglobin, its clinical manifestations cannot be explained solely on that basis. Inflammatory mechanisms contribute to the clinical syndromes associated with sickle cell disease. Placental growth factor (PlGF) is a member of the vascular endothelial growth factor family and is associated with inflammation and with pathologic angiogenesis. Perelman and colleagues have reported that PlGF is released from marrow erythroid cells (Blood 2003; 102:1506–13). These and other investigators have reported that serum PlGF concentration distinguishes patients with sickle cell disease from healthy controls, although results vary depending upon disease activity at the time of study (Blood 2003;1514–24 and Brit J Haematol 2006; 134:116–9). In studies we reported previously, we measured PlGF and other cytokines in the marrow of stable homozygous sickle cell (SS) patients and controls. Plasma PlGF did not differ between homozygous sickle cell SS patients and controls, but bone marrow PlGF concentrations were significantly higher in SS patients. This was not a phenomenon general to cytokines, and did not reflect increased erythroid activity but rather represented an increase per erythropoietic unit (J Invest Med 2005; 53:S305–6). In this report, we address the consequences of exposure to PlGF for erythropoiesis in the context of inflammation. We observed that CFU–E from SS patients were less sensitive to inhibition by recombinant human gamma interferon (rhgIFN) than those from healthy controls, with this effect being most pronounced at lower gIFN concentrations. The potential contribution of PlGF to this process was evaluated. At PlGF concentrations 10 – 1000 pg/mL, no inhibition or enhancement of CFU-E colony formation was observed, and there were no differences between the responses of progenitors from SS patients or from normal volunteers to PlGF. However, PlGF 100 pg/mL reversed the inhibitory effects of rhgIFN on CFU-E colony formation (p = 0.04). This effect was most apparent at lower rhgIFN concentrations. Using the HCD57 erythroleukemia cell line as a model, it was found that PlGF produced significant attenuation of Fas ligand induction by rhgIFN. Both HCD57 and CD36+ human marrow mononuclear cells were shown to express Flt-1, a receptor for PlGF. Neutralizing antibody against Flt-1 attenuated the gIFN-protective effect of rhPlGF on CFU-E colony formation. In conclusion, increased PlGF concentrations in the marrow of stable SS patients may contribute to protecting erythroid progenitors from cytokine-induced apoptosis, and may be a mechanism by which erythropoiesis in sickle cell disease is preserved despite concurrent inflammation.
Examining motor vehicle crash involvement and readiness to change on drinking and driving behaviors among injured emergency department patients.

ABSTRACTObjective: To measure the effect of motor vehicle crash (MVC) involvement and readiness to change drinking and driving behaviors on subsequent driving and drinking behaviors among injured emergency department (ED) patients who use alcohol at harmful levels.Methods: This was a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial of injured ED patients who screened positive for harmful alcohol use, who at recruitment reported driving in the past 12 months and received at least one of the intended intervention sessions (brief behavioral intervention versus attention placebo control; N = 407). Outcome variables were as follows: (1) change in 6 impaired driving behaviors and (2) report of MVCs and traffic violations in the 12 months following recruitment; predictor variables were as follows: (1) treatment assignment, (2) MVC involvement at recruitment, and (3) baseline readiness to change alcohol use and drinking and driving.Results: Modeling of change in the 6 impaired driving variables indicated that ...
Structure and specificity of a permissive bacterial C-prenyltransferase

This study highlights the biochemical and structural characterization of the L-tryptophan C6 C-prenyltransferase (C-PT) PriB from Streptomyces sp. RM-5-8. PriB was found to be uniquely permissive to a diverse array of prenyl donors and acceptors including daptomycin. Two additional PTs also produced novel prenylated daptomycins with improved antibacterial activities over the parent drug.
Calculating Efficiency with Financial Accounting Data: Data Envelopment Analysis for Accounting Researchers

Recent years have seen a preponderance of accounting research using data envelopment analysis (DEA) to measure efficiency. In this study, I examine the calculation of DEA efficiency, with a focus on large panel datasets of financial accounting information. Using simulation and archival data, I examine four methodological considerations that arise when calculating efficiency with panel data: calculation group size, measuring efficiency over multiple time periods, the choice of calculation group classification, and using subsets of efficiency values calculated from larger datasets. I find that each of these potentially influences the efficiency generated by DEA. Based on these methodological issues, I provide evidence and prescriptions to aid researchers using DEA in designing studies.
Impact of race and gender on clinical outcomes of catheter ablation in patients with atrial fibrillation.

BACKGROUND Radiofrequency catheter ablation (CA) is an effective treatment of drug-refractory atrial fibrillation (AF). However, the efficacy of CA by race and gender has not been well characterized. We sought to determine the impact of ethnicity and gender on clinical outcome following CA in patients with AF. METHODS Patients who underwent CA for AF from September 2013 to April 2016 were included in this study. Patients were identified retrospectively and followed prospectively. RESULTS A total of 118 patients (15.3% black and 78.8% white, 33% female) comprised the cohort, with mean age at ablation 63.4 ± 10.4 years. Black patients were older at time of the procedure (65.4 vs 63.4 years old) and had more prevalent comorbidities, including hypertension (77.8% vs 63.4%), diabetes (33.3% vs 15.0%), chronic kidney disease (22.2% vs 7.5%), and lower left ventricular ejection fraction (51.8% vs 56.2%). Blacks also had significantly larger left atrial size (P = 0.03). Late recurrence of AF was similar between blacks and whites (33.3% vs 34.4%, P = 1) as well as between women and men (28.2% vs 36.7%, P = 0.41). Early recurrence was predictive of late recurrence in men (P < 0.001) but not in women (P = 0.48). Enlarged left atrium and early recurrence of AF were significant predictors for late recurrence of AF in the cohort. CONCLUSIONS CA for AF is equally effective in black patients despite more prevalent comorbidity and increased left atrial size. Early recurrence of AF after CA was not predictive of late recurrence of AF in women but was in men.
Control of propagating spin-wave attenuation by the spin-Hall effect

The spin-Hall effect induced modification of the attenuation of propagating exchange-mode spin waves (SWs) is studied micromagnetically and analytically in heavy-metal/ferromagnet bilayers. Micromagnetic simulations of spin-wave propagation in Pt/NiFe show that at a relatively low current density of ∼ 6 × 1011 A/m2, Gilbert damping is exactly balanced by the spin-Hall torque and long-distance SW transmission is possible. An analytical model is developed to explain the micromagnetic results and relate the current density to the characteristic attenuation length. The results suggest that the spin Hall effect can be used as an effective means to control the attenuation length of propagating spin waves in nanostructures.
Insect Arylalkylamine N-Acetyltransferases as Potential Targets for Novel Insecticide Design

Crop protection against destructive pests has been at the forefront of recent agricultural advancements. Rapid adaptive evolution has led to insects becoming immune to the chemicals employed to quell their damage. Insecticide resistance is a serious problem that negatively impacts food production, food storage, human health, and the environment. To make matters more complicated are the strict regulations in place on insecticide development, driven by rising public concern relating to the harmful effects these chemicals have on the environment and on society. A key component to solving the problem of insect resistance, while keeping public welfare in mind, is the identification of novel insectspecific protein targets. One unexplored target for the development of new targeted insecticides are the insect arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferases (iAANATs). This group of enzymes, shown to be intrinsic in the development of the insect cuticle, is an untapped well of potential for target-specific inhibition, while offering enough variety to ensure protection for non-target enzymes. In this review, we highlight kinetic, genetic and bioinformatic data showing that the iAANATs are intriguing insecticide targets that should be specific only for particular insect pests. Such a pest-specific insecticide would minimize environmental harm by eliminating such non-discriminate attacks which have made insecticides such a highly regulated industry, and would have negligible toxicity to humans and other mammals.
How investors value cash and cash flows when managers commit to providing earnings forecasts

Abstract Theory considers voluntary disclosure to be an important mechanism for reducing information asymmetry in the corporate setting (Bertomeu, Beyer, & Dye, 2011). Prior research on corporate cash policy suggests that investors value cash holdings more when information asymmetry is low (e.g., Drobetz, Gruninger, & Hirschvogl, 2010). Given both streams of literature, we examine whether investors value cash and cash flows higher for firms that commit to providing management earnings forecasts, an important form of voluntary disclosure. In univariate analyses, we show that committed forecasting is negatively associated with widely accepted measures of information asymmetry. In multivariate tests, we document that committed forecasting is associated with a higher market value of cash, surplus cash and operating cash flows. Our multivariate results are robust to adjustments for endogeneity in managers' forecast decision, and to the inclusion of controls for alternative uses of cash, firm information quality, information demand and governance.
Doping evolution of spin fluctuations and their peculiar suppression at low temperatures in Ca ( Fe 1 − x Co x ) 2 As 2

Results of inelastic neutron scattering measurements are reported for two annealed compositions of ${\mathrm{Ca}(\mathrm{Fe}}_{1\ensuremath{-}x}{\mathrm{Co}}_{x}{)}_{2}{\mathrm{As}}_{2},x=0.026$ and 0.030, which possess stripe-type antiferromagnetically ordered and superconducting ground states, respectively. In the AFM ground state, well-defined and gapped spin waves are observed for $x=0.026$, similar to the parent ${\mathrm{CaFe}}_{2}{\mathrm{As}}_{2}$ compound. We conclude that the well-defined spin waves are likely to be present for all $x$ corresponding to the AFM state. This behavior is in contrast to the smooth evolution to overdamped spin dynamics observed in ${\mathrm{Ba}(\mathrm{Fe}}_{1\ensuremath{-}x}{\mathrm{Co}}_{x}{)}_{2}{\mathrm{As}}_{2}$, wherein the crossover corresponds to microscopically coexisting AFM order and SC at low temperature. The smooth evolution is likely absent in ${\mathrm{Ca}(\mathrm{Fe}}_{1\ensuremath{-}x}{\mathrm{Co}}_{x}{)}_{2}{\mathrm{As}}_{2}$ due to the mutual exclusion of AFM ordered and SC states. Overdamped spin dynamics characterize paramagnetism of the $x=0.030$ sample and high-temperature $x=0.026$ sample. A sizable loss of magnetic intensity is observed over a wide energy range upon cooling the $x=0.030$ sample, at temperatures just above and within the superconducting phase. This phenomenon is unique amongst the iron-based superconductors and is consistent with a temperature-dependent reduction in the fluctuating moment. One possible scenario ascribes this loss of moment to a sensitivity to the $c$-axis lattice parameter in proximity to the nonmagnetic collapsed tetragonal phase and another scenario ascribes the loss to a formation of a pseudogap.