cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Proteolytic activation of membrane-bound guanylate cyclase

Membrane-bound guanylate cyclase-A (GC-A), the receptor for atrial natriuretic factor (ANF), has been shown to be regulated by its kinase-like domain. To resolve the nature of this regulation, we measured the effects of various proteases on the activity of guanylate cyclase in rat lung membranes, and on the activity of the bacterial-expressed catalytic domain (GC-c) and on a recombinant peptide composed of both the kinase-like and catalytic domain (GC-kc) of guanylate cyclase. Pronase increased rat guanylate cyclase activity in a biphasic manner with a maximal effect at about 10-20 microg per assay tube. Thermolysin had effects similar to those of pronase on the activity of guanylate cyclase in rat lung membranes. In the case of bacterial-expressed proteins, pronase increased the activity of GC-kc, but not GC-c. These results indicate that GC-A contains an autoinhibitory site on its kinase-like domain, and that removal of the autoinhibitory site by limited proteolysis leads to enzyme activation. GC-A was poorly activated by ANF and ATP after the rat lung membrane was pretreated with pronase, suggesting that ANF/ATP and pronase activate guanylate cyclase through the same mechanism. It is suggested that the binding of ANF and ATP to GC-A may induce a conformational change of the receptor that releases the inhibitory constraint on enzyme activity leading to enzyme activation.
Fragmentation by molecular dynamics: The microscopic "big bang"

We propose and test a new molecular-dynamics method to study fragmentation of condensed matter under homogeneous adiabatic expansion. Our atomistic simulations give significant insight into the nature of fragment distributions. We also find that a simple continuum model based on energy balance gives a reasonably good estimate of the average fragment mass.
Rotational spectral studies of O( 1 D) insertion reactions with methane and ethylene: Methanol and vinyl alcohol in a supersonic expansion

Abstract We report a new apparatus for millimeter/submillimeter spectroscopic studies of O(1D) insertion reactions to produce molecules of astrophysical interest. This study focuses on the insertion of O(1D) into methane to form methanol, and the insertion of O(1D) into ethylene to form vinyl alcohol (CH2CHOH). The O(1D) was produced via laser photodissociation of O3 in a fused silica tube and mixed with a hydrocarbon before a supersonic expansion. Direct absorption millimeter/submillimeter spectroscopy was used to monitor the products. The methanol study was used as an experimental benchmark, while the vinyl alcohol study extended rotational spectroscopic measurements to higher frequencies. Observed products from both insertion reactions included, but were not limited to, H2CO, HO2, and CH3O. Methanol and vinyl alcohol were only produced in detectable quantities when the fused silica tube was included, indicating that collisions before the expansion are required for production and stabilization of the O(1D) insertion products.
Diana Boxer, Applying sociolinguistics: Domains and face-to-face interaction

Diana Boxer, Applying sociolinguistics: Domains and face-to-face interaction. Philadelphia: John Benjamins, 2002. 244 pp. Hb 47.95.This book has many fine qualities, including careful attention to what is meant by applying linguistics as opposed to applied linguistics. The author's goal is to show readers how research findings in micro-sociolinguistic interaction can be applied to several domains of public and private life: family, education, religion, the workplace, cross-cultural encounters, and so on. Application, in this case, involves awareness of subtleties that go unnoticed in face-to-face interaction, particularly those that create or sustain a power imbalance between participants. That awareness, in turn, sets the stage for “transform(ing) the social order” (p. 22, italics omitted) by empowering “individual speakers in their ordinary day-to-day interactions in all spheres of life and in all stages of life” (222). Instead of a social or political agenda, the book suggests in each domain what would constitute more “humane” interaction: stories would be addressed to children, as well as told about them; collaborative ways of speaking associated primarily with women would be given more status in the workplace and used more often by both women and men; gatekeepers who deal with international students (and other U.S. Americans who interact with speakers for whom English is a second language) would be more sensitive to the potential for face threat to arise from misunderstanding.
Neuropeptides: Mediators of Behavior in Aplysia

The Aplysia neuroendocrine system is a particularly advantageous model for cellular and molecular studies because of the relatively small number and large size of its component neurons. Recombinant DNA techniques have been used to isolate the genes that encode the precursors of peptides expressed in identified neurons of known function. The organization and developmental expression of these genes have been examined in detail. Several of the genes encode precursors of multiple biologically active peptides that are expressed in cells which also contain classical transmitters. These studies, as well as immunohistochemical studies and the use of intracellular recording and voltage clamp techniques are the first steps toward revealing the mechanisms by which neuropeptides govern simple behaviors.
Evidence for enzymatic reduction of 1-nitropyrene by rat liver fractions.

1-Nitropyrene, a mutagenic compound found in diesel exhaust and photocopy toners, is reduced anaerobically by rat liver fractions to 1-aminopyrene. This reaction is stimulated in the microsomal fraction by NADPH and in the cytosol by FMN. Addition of both cofactors produced more reduction in S-9, microsomes, or cytosol than either cofactor alone.
The Influence of Education Major: How Diverse Preservice Teachers View Pseudoscience Topics

Pseudoscience beliefs (e.g., astrology, ghosts or UFOs) are rife in American society. Most research examines creation/evolution among liberal arts majors, general public adults, or, infrequently, middle or high school science teachers. Thus, research truncates the range of ersatz science thinking and the samples it studies. We examined diverse beliefs, e.g., extraterrestrials, magic, Biblical creation, and evolution, among 540 female and 123 male future teachers, including 325 elementary education majors. We study how these cognitions related to education major and, because popular media often present pseudoscience “information”, student media use. Future elementary educators most often rejected evolution and endorsed “creationism” or Intelligent Design. Education majors held similar beliefs about astrology, UFO landings, or magic. Compared with other education students, elementary education majors watched less news or science television and read fewer popular science magazines. However, religious and media variables explained more variation in creation/evolution beliefs than education major. We discuss implications of our findings for elementary school science education and how teacher educators may be able to affect pseudoscience beliefs among their elementary education students.
Observation of the Diurnal Variation of Gaseous H2O2 in Los Angeles Air Using a Cryogenic Collection Method

During the Carbonaceous Species Method Comparison Study at Glendora, CA in August 11–21, 1986, gaseous H2O2 in the air was collected by a cold trap method using dry ice-acetone as a cooling reagent. Sampling time of the H2O2 was every 4 hours during the day and 8 hours from 11 p.m. through 7 a.m. (PST). Gaseous H2O2 was also collected simultaneously at Duarte and Westwood during the comparison study. After H2O2 entrapment from air, H2O2 concentration in the defrosted sample was measured by a fluorescence technique. The observed range of gaseous H2O2 was 0.08–1.02 (n = 23), 0.10–0.86 (n = 23), and 0.09–0.34 ppb (n= 10) at Glendora, Duarte, and Westwood, respectively. The highest values in H2O2 content was found during midday when O3 content was maximum and NOx content was minimum at all the sites studied. On the other hand, lowest values in H2O2 content were observed in the evening through early morning. H2O2 concentration was always higher at Glendora than at Duarte and Westwood during midday. This region...
Colorectal Cancer Screening among Asian Americans

Objectives: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the most commonly diagnosed cancer for all US populations including Asian Americans. CRC screening has considerable benefits to prevent CRC and reduce mortality. The purpose of this article was to review the published literature on rates of colorectal cancer screening and factors associated with colorectal cancer screening practice among Asian Americans. Methods: Through searching electronic reference databases from 2000 to 2013, 30 articles were found on Chinese, Filipino, Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese Americans. Findings: Asian Americans had significantly low ratesfor CRC screening; Korean Americans reported the lowest rates, while higher screening rates were found among Japanese Americans. Older age, longer length of stay in the US, and having a physician’s recommendation were the most common facilitators to receiving screening. The common inhibiting factors were financial issues, employment status, and worries/fears about the procedure. Conclusions: Despite a number of Asian Americans being vulnerable to CRC, individual Asian subgroups were underserved with CRC screening and intervention. Further studies should focus on each individual Asian subgroup and culturally proficient CRC screening intervention programs should be developed for each.
A Study of the Dynamic Factors Influencing the Rainfall Variability in the West African Sahel

Abstract This study examines selected dynamical factors associated with wet and dry years in the West African Sahel. The approach is to evaluate the temperature, wind, and moisture fields and the dynamic instabilities for a 4-yr“wet” composite (1958–61) and a 4-yr “dry” composite (1982–85). The analysis, limited to the months of June through September, is carried out using the National Centers for Environmental Prediction–National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCEP–NCAR) 40-Year Reanalysis Project dataset. Two upper-air datasets are also evaluated to confirm trends apparent in the NCEP–NCAR data. This study confirms some of the results of earlier studies, such as the weaker African easterly jet (AEJ) and stronger tropical easterly jet (TEJ) during wet years, but suggests a different interpretation of the wet–dry contrasts. In the Sahel, the most important characteristic of the AEJ appears to be its latitudinal location rather than its intensity. This governs the instability mechanisms. The AEJ is displ...
Reduction methods for real-time systems using Delay Time Petri Nets

We present a new net-reduction methodology to facilitate the analysis of real-time systems using Delay Time Petri Nets (DTPNs). Net reduction is one of the most important techniques for reducing the state-explosion problem of Petri nets. However, the application of net reduction to current timed-extensions of Petri nets (such as Merlin's Time PNs) is very limited due to the difficulty faced in the preservation of timing constraints. To overcome this problem, we introduce DTPNs which are inspired by Merlin's (1976) Time PNs, Senac's (1994) Hierarchical Time Stream PNs, and Little's (1991) Timed PNs. We show that DTPNs are much more suitable for net reduction. Then, we present a new set of DTPN reduction rules for the analysis of schedule and deadlock analysis. Our work is distinct from the others since our goal is to analyze real-time systems and the reduction methods we propose preserve both timing properties (schedule) and deadlock. To evaluate our framework, we have implemented an automated analysis tool whose main functions include net reduction and class-graph generation. The experimental results show that our net-reduction methodology leads to a significant contribution to the efficient analysis of real-time systems.
Strongly binding cell-adhesive polypeptides of programmable valencies.

increased stability and control over surface density, they do not generally exhibit the binding strength of whole proteins. Moreover, it is difficult to systematically vary binding strengths to enable quantitative experiments for studying cellular interactions with materials and surfaces. Herein, we show that polypeptides can be engineered in such a way that the valencies of the cell-adhesion region can be precisely programmed and systematically varied (up to precisely 80 copies of a RGD repeat) to enable strong and tunable interactions between cells and materials. We also demonstrate the programmable binding strengths on the basis of a wellcontrolled microfluidic-flow setup for the study of cell binding.
Uncovering the Truth: Examining Truth Commission Success and Impact

While there is growing interest in examining what long-term impact truth commissions have on society, our understanding has been hampered by a number of empirical problems. Specifically, most studies focus on a small biased subsample of cases, rely on anecdotal evidence and normative conviction, and fail to follow the truth commission's legacy beyond its immediate reception. What is more, although a range of purposes have been put forward for truth commissions, there is little consensus on what criteria might be used to assess them. These issues are further compounded by a growing chorus of critics who see truth commissions as either ineffectual or dangerous. This article fleshes out the nature of these problems and outlines how a multimethod strategy might be effective in addressing them. Furthermore, it suggests two potential means of assessing the impact of truth commissions, specifically their effect on subsequent human rights practices and democratic development. The article concludes by suggesting how some problems with this strategy can be overcome by further iterations of a multimethod approach.
An Unusual Urachal Bladder Diverticulum in a Female Infant

The prenatal diagnosis of an abdominal cystic mass by ultrasonographic examination was made and a postnatal diagnosis of a urachal bladder diverticulum suggested by a voiding cystourethrogram was confirmed at surgery, at which time the base of the diverticulum was excised and the bladder was repaired in layers.
Static Headspace and Gas Chromatographic Analysis of Fumigant Residues in Soil and Water

Soil fumigants are characterized by high vapor pressures and low boiling points, which determine that the commonly used solvent extraction-based methods are not suitable for sample preparation. The paper reports static headspace gas chromatography (GC) methods for the analysis of the fumigants 1,3-dichloropropene (1,3-D) and methyl isothiocyanate (MITC) in soil and water. Method optimization was achieved by modifying the sample matrix with concentrated salt solution and adjusting sample equilibration temperature and time on the headspace autosampler. The headspace GC methods showed1 order of magnitude greater GC response than a cold solvent extraction method under the same GC conditions and also gave cleaner chromatograms and more stable baselines. When applied to soil samples taken from a fumigated field, the headspacee GC method showed reproducibility similar to that of a solvent extraction method but had an improved detectability for deep-layer samples that contained low levels of 1,3-D.
A classic learning opportunity from Arthur Guyton and colleagues (1955): circuit analysis of venous return

The circuit analysis of an electric analog of the systemic circulation, the focus of a classic paper by Guyton, Lindsey, and Kaufmann, provides a framework for understanding the factors that impact venous return and for appreciating the value of modeling physiological systems. The classic 1955 paper by Guyton, Lindsey, and Kaufmann gives your students an opportunity to learn about modeling from the physiologist who pioneered it (Guyton) and demonstrates that mathematics and data graphics are fundamental tools with which to learn about the regulation of the cardiovascular system. In this essay, I outline avenues of discovery by which your students can explore the factors that impact venous return.
Relationship Status and Relationship Instability, but Not Dominance, Predict Individual Differences in Baseline Cortisol Levels

We investigated variation in baseline cortisol levels in relation to relationship status (single or in a relationship), relationship characteristics (length, stability, presence or absence of clear dominance), or individual attributes (dominant or subordinate status, relative physical attractiveness, relationship worries). Study participants were 77 men and 75 women aged between 18 and 38 years. Individuals in romantic relationships had lower cortisol levels than singles. Individuals of African ethnicity, however, showed the opposite pattern. Individuals who perceived their relationship to be highly unstable had higher cortisol levels. Aside from African-Americans, married individuals reported the lowest relationship instability and the lowest cortisol levels, followed by individuals in long-term relationships, and by individuals in short-term relationships. The presence or absence of clear dominance in the relationship, dominance status, or relationship worries did not affect cortisol levels. Therefore relationship status and relationship instability were better predictors of variation in cortisol (presumably through stress-related mechanisms) than individual attributes.
Joint Sulcal Detection on Cortical Surfaces With Graphical Models and Boosted Priors

In this paper, we propose an automated approach for the joint detection of major sulci on cortical surfaces. By representing sulci as nodes in a graphical model, we incorporate Markovian relations between sulci and formulate their detection as a maximum a posteriori (MAP) estimation problem over the joint space of major sulci. To make the inference tractable, a sample space with a finite number of candidate curves is automatically generated at each node based on the Hamilton-Jacobi skeleton of sulcal regions. Using the AdaBoost algorithm, we learn both individual and pairwise shape priors of sulcal curves from training data, which are then used to define potential functions in the graphical model based on the connection between AdaBoost and logistic regression. Finally belief propagation is used to perform the MAP inference and select the joint detection results from the sample spaces of candidate curves. In our experiments, we quantitatively validate our algorithm with manually traced curves and demonstrate the automatically detected curves can capture the main body of sulci very accurately. A comparison with independently detected results is also conducted to illustrate the advantage of the joint detection approach.
Interfacial failure simulation of single solder joint using a multiscale approach

The interface damage of single solder joint was simulated using cohesive zone model incorporated in finite element analysis. In this study, the solder/IMC/Cu pad interfaces models were constructed for the molecular dynamics simulation. The traction-separation law was derived when the interface model was subjected to a principle strain in one direction. The materials properties of cohesive element for finite element analysis (FEA) were then extracted from the molecular dynamics (MD) calculations. The multiscale simulation results show that the interface damage can be captured well based on the cohesive zone model coupling with MD simulation results, particular when the brittle failure is the dominant mode at the interfaces of single solder joint.
Irreversible Polymer Collapse in 2 and 3 Dimensions

We describe scaling arguments and simulations of the kinetics of the coil-to-globule transition. Scaling predicts and simulations confirm that irreversible collapse is dominated by diffusion of the polymer ends which accrete monomers and small aggregates. Exponents found by simulations agree closely with scaling relations. In three dimensions the collapse time is predicted to scale only linearly with polymer length. Our results are contrasted with de Gennes' mean-field theory of collapse in the reversible regime of small departure from θ-solvent conditions.
Kinetic and Equilibrium Studies of Reactions of N‐Heterocycles with Dimeric and Monomeric Oxorhenium(V) Complexes

Equilibrium constants have been evaluated for the reaction {MeReO(edt)}2 + 2 L ⇄ 2 MeReO(edt)L, where edt is 1,2-ethanedithiolate and L is any of 13 N-donor heterocyclic ligands. The values of K range from 1.37(27)×10−2 for pyrimidine to 1.95(6)×106 for imidazole at 25 °C in chloroform. A successful correlation of logK with log (Ka) of HL+ was realized except in the case of the 2-substituted ligands 2-picoline and quinoline, where steric effects make K smaller than expected from the proton basicity of L. The kinetics of the same reactions were studied; the rate law for the reaction in the forward direction is given by −d[{MeReO(edt)}2]/dt = {ka + kb[L]}[L] × [{MeReO(edt)}2]. Except for 2-picoline and quinoline, the major pathway is provided by the term that shows the quadratic dependence on [L]. Values of log (kb) also correlate with log K, and therefore necessarily with log (Ka).
P2-S9.04 Condom non-use is associated with low perception of risk for STIs in young sexually active women

Background Research indicates perception of risk is necessary for adoption of health protective behaviour. Many studies report optimistic bias in risk perceptions, ie, actual risk exceeds perceived risk. This study assessed the relationship between sexual risk behaviours and perceived risk for acquisition of an STI in a cohort of sexually experienced young women. Methods Female Marine Corps recruits volunteered to participate in a cognitive-behavioural intervention to decrease STIs and unintended pregnancies that took place during Recruit Training (RT). Data are from the follow-up questionnaire (median=9.8 months post RT) for women who reported vaginal/anal sex since RT (N=1192). Perceived risk was assessed by, I think my chance of getting an STI during my next 6 months in the Corps is about." (0%, 1%, 5%, then 10%–100% in 10% jumps). Sexual risk behaviours since completing RT included # sex partners (1/2/3/4/5+), # casual partners (0/1/2/3+), % of time used condoms during sex (100/90–99/60–80/50/10–40/0), frequency of sex after drinking alcohol/using drugs (never/almost never/sometimes/usually or always), and whether any partner had an STI or was having sex with others (no/possible/yes). Bivariate relationships between sexual risk behaviour and perceived risk were evaluated using negative binomial regression. Results Perceived risk was low (mean=6.05). All risk behaviours were significantly associated with perceived risk (p<0.001). In general, perceived risk increased as behavioural risk increased except for condom use. Pairwise comparisons show the 0% group mean (2.41) is higher than for the 100% group (1.47, p<0.05), but lower than the 90–99% group (3.96, p<0.05), and much lower than the 60-80%, 50%, and 10-40% groups (9.03, 8.88, and 11.05 respectively; all p<0.001). Restricting the analysis to participants with multiple partners or to unmarried women yielded the same results. Associations between sexual risk behaviour and two other measures of perceived risk (own risk relative to other female Marines, risk of behaviour for getting an STI; not shown) parallel the results described here. Conclusions There is a major disconnect between women's perception of risk and their condom use, the most effective means for preventing common STIs. Since women must negotiate with and rely on male sexual partner(s) for condom use, future research should further examine social and contextual factors that influence young women's perceptions of risk in relation to condom use.
Optimal seeding in batch crystallization

C'est la premiere etude complete sur l'optimisation de la distribution des semences dans un procede de cristallisation. Pour un cristalliseur discontinu, une formulation de programmation dynamique optimise une propriete des cristaux du produit en fonction du profil de sursaturation et des caracteristiques des semences, a savoir la taille moyenne des cristaux de semences, la masse des semences et la largeur de la distribution des semences. Trois objectifs d'optimisation sont consideres : (1) le poids moyen, (2) le coefficient de variation et (3) le rapport entre la masse de cristaux nuclees/germines et la masse de cristaux de semences. Differents objectifs conduisent a des distributions de semences optimales substantiellement differentes. On montre que l'optimisation de la distribution de semences peut avoir un effet plus important sur la distribution de taille des cristaux de produit que l'optimisation en fonction du profil de sursaturation.
Effects of N: P ratio and total nutrient concentration on stream periphyton community structure, biomass, and elemental composition

The effects of nutrient ratios on algal community structure and algal growth have been examined extensively in lakes and marine environments, but rarely in streams. We manipulated stream water N : P ratio (65 : 1, 17 : 1, 4 : 1) and total nutrient concentration (low and high) in a factorial experiment using once-through streamside flumes and measured responses in abundance, community structure, and elemental composition of periphyton communities. Early in the experiment, periphyton chlorophyll a and total algal biovolume were higher for treatments where N was added (high total nutrient concentration) but were not affected by N : P ratio. This response is contrary to our prediction that P would limit periphyton growth based on the high N : P ratio in the source water and unamended periphyton mats. The relative abundance of nine of eleven common algal taxa was affected by N : P ratio, total nutrient concentration, or both. Overall, algal community structure was more sensitive than bulk measures of periphyton abundance to changes in N : P ratio and total nutrient concentration. Periphyton %N and %P increased with the N and P concentration of stream water, and periphyton N : P tracked stream water N : P ratio. Responses in periphyton chemical composition to nutrients could affect the food quality of periphyton for consumers. The relative amounts of essential nutrients required for growth and reproduction typically differ among plant species. This knowledge led researchers to develop the concept of optimal nutrient ratios, at which the supplies of nutrients are balanced to the growth requirements of the plant (Tilman 1977; Rhee and Gotham 1980; Tilman 1982). Resource-ratio theory, first developed for phytoplankton (Tilman 1977, 1982, 1985), predicts that changes in the environmental ratios of two essential nutrients will cause changes in plant community structure due to exploitative competition among taxa with different optimal nutrient ratios. Two species with different optimal nutrient ratios are able to coexist only if each species is a better competitor for the nutrient most limiting to the other species. It is unclear whether benthic algae compete exploitatively for nutrients, although evidence is rapidly accumulating that periphyton in lakes (e.g., Fairchild et al. 1985) and streams can be nutrient limited (Bothwell 1989; Pringle 1990; Harvey et al. 1998). Benthic algae in flowing waters may have less ability to affect nutrient avail1
Characterization of PECVD SixOyNz:H Films and its Correlation to Device Performance and Reliability

For integrated circuits, the integrity and film quality of the final passivation layer plays an important role in the device performance and reliability. Hydrogenated amorphous silicon oxynitride (α-SixNyOz:H) films deposited by plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) have been extensively used for final device passivation applications. In this paper, a detailed characterization of PECVD oxynitride process for 200 mm Si wafer processing is presented. Silicon oxynitride of various compositions were deposited by changing the amounts of silane, ammonia, nitrogen and nitrous oxide in the reactant gas stream. Ultraviolet/Visible (UV/VIS) spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS), and refractive index measurements were used to examine the variation in physical, optical and electrical properties. A correlation is observed between the oxynitride film composition, mainly N-H/Si-H ratio, and UV transmissivity (UV %T) which is of particular interest for memory applications. Effects of oxynitride film quality on e-test parameters and device performance are discussed.
Jailbait: The Politics of Statutory Rape Laws in the United States

Review of Jailbait: The Politics of Statutory Rape Laws in the United States. By Carolyn E. Cocca. Albany: State University of New York Press, 2004. 228p. $59.50 cloth, $19.95 paper.
Boundary Maintenance as a Barrier to Mental Health Help‐seeking for Depression Among the Old Order Amish

This paper describes "boundary maintenance" as a barrier to help-seeking for depression within an Old Order Amish enclave. Observations and qualitative interview data were collected from 50 members of the Old Order Amish enclave and from the 8 mental health providers in their rural community. The Amish reported fairly high levels of depression, concomitantly high levels of reluctance to seek treatment for depression from mental health providers, and very low levels of service utilization. The functionality of boundary maintenance to group cohesion was discovered to be a significant barrier to help-seeking for depression from outside providers. Boundary maintenance was achieved through two social control mechanisms: religious-based stigmatization of depression and the construction of mental health providers as illegitimate help agents. Suggestions have been made to assist providers in achieving cultural competence among the Amish, in order to reduce the threat that the Amish perceive to their cultural boundaries.
The Colonial Transition: South Asia, 1780–1840

The seven papers in this special issue focus primarily on the development of British colonial rule between the 178os and the 1840s.1 Over the course of these decades, the East India Company extended and consolidated its political and military control throughout much of the Indian subcontinent. Many of the crucial developments in the formation of the colonial state occurred during this period. These include the conquest of Mysore and the defeat of the Marathas, the implementation of the Permanent Settlement, the reforms undertaken during the Viceroyalty of Lord Bentinck, the introduction of Utilitarianism and missionary activity, the establishment of the Trigonometrical Survey, the development of the systems of control based upon indirect rule in the 'princely states', the emergence of new concepts of 'race' and social hierarchy, and the reshaping of British social life in South Asia. Outside of India, Ceylon's maritime provinces were captured from the Dutch and, in 1815, the interior Kandyan kingdom was annexed, paving the way for the island's transformation into a Crown colony focused on plantation production. In Britain, too, there was a growing interest among the public in the British territorial possessions in South Asia and an increasing awareness that this empire helped to define Britain as a great national power within Europe. For these reasons alone, this period, which begins when the Company was seeking to entrench itself as the de facto ruler of Bengal and ends
Analysis of Phenolic Compounds with Mass Spectrometry

Mass spectrometry is a very valuable analytical tool based on the simple premise of determining the molecular weight of the compound of interest. In fact, mass spectrometry involves the measurement of the mass (m) of a compound as a function of charge (z), m/z. In most mass spectrometer experiments the charge on an ion is one, such that the molecular weight of the ion is equal in value to m/z. Mass spectrometry can be divided into three steps: ionization, mass analysis and detection. Sample introduction is really a distinct component for obtaining quality mass spectra and will be discussed separately.
Low clouds and cloud immersion enhance photosynthesis in understory species of a southern Appalachian spruce–fir forest (USA)

High-altitude forests of the southern Appalachian Mountains (USA) are frequently immersed in clouds, as are many mountain forests. They may be particularly sensitive to predicted increases in cloud base altitude with global warming. However, few studies have addressed the impacts of immersion on incident sunlight and photosynthesis. Understory sunlight (photosynthetically active radiation, PAR) was measured during clear, low cloud, and cloud-immersed conditions at Mount Mitchell and Roan Mountain, NC (USA) along with accompanying photosynthesis in four representative understory species. Understory PAR was substantially less variable on immersed vs. clear days. Photosynthesis became light-saturated between ∼100 and 400 μmol · m(-2) · s(-1) PAR for all species measured, corresponding closely to the sunlight environment measured during immersion. Estimated daily carbon gain was 26% greater on clear days at a more open canopy site but was 22% greater on immersed/cloudy days at a more closed canopy site. F(v)/F(m) (maximum photosystem II efficiency) in Abies fraseri seedlings exposed to 2.5 min full sunlight was significantly reduced (10%), indicating potential reductions in photosynthesis on clear days. In addition, photosynthesis in microsites with canopy cover was nearly 3-fold greater under immersed (2.6 mmol · m(-2) · h(-1)) vs. clear conditions (0.9 mmol · m(-2) · h(-1)). Thus, cloud immersion provided more constant PAR regimes that enhanced photosynthesis, especially in shaded microsites. Future studies are needed to predict the survival of these refugial forests under potential changes in cloud regimes.
Personal Responsibility: The Effects of Becoming a Teach for America Teacher

There has been a great deal of research about Teach for America (TFA) teachers' efficacy and tenure in the classroom. However, there is little research that examines how TFA (as an organization) recruits for and then shapes the behaviors and attitudes of its teachers, or about the short- and long-term effects of that initiation period. This paper argues that this initial recruitment and training have clear effects on these teachers' mindset as well as their desire to stay in teaching. The data for this paper come from a variety of sources, including a three-year ethnography of the same cohort of TFA. Specifically, the three stages of TFA's recruitment and training practices (recruitment, application, and training) are examined in order to analyze how the TFA staff recruit college students and how they meld a group of recent college graduates with little teaching experience into a relatively uniform group in terms of pedagogical mindset. This initial training also has a long-term impact in that many alumni have a more nuanced and teacher-centric view of education after they leave the program than before they entered. For some, the teacher is still the main actor and cause for results in the classroom, but many also understand the effects of other societal factors on educational attainment.
Overwintering of Heliothis virescens (F.) and Helicoverpa zea (Boddie) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in cotton fields of northeast Mississippi.

Abstract Following the 1995–2001 crop seasons, population densities of pupae of tobacco budworm, Heliothis virescens (F.), and corn earworm, Helicoverpa zea (Boddie), overwintering in cotton fields, Gossypium hirsutum L., in Monroe County, MS, were estimated by digging a total of 43,542 m-row. Densities of pupae varied greatly among years with the highest densities occurring in years with low rainfall in the late summer and early fall. The sex ratio of pupae was variable and significantly male-biased in some years. The total area-wide, tobacco budworm population emerging from all overwintering sites was estimated from catches in pheromone traps whose absolute efficiency is known. After the introduction of Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner (Bt)-transgenic cotton in 1996 but before a several-fold increase in use of herbicide resistant (HR)-transgenic cotton cultivars in 2001, local cotton fields accounted for <2% of the total overwintered tobacco budworm population. In the pretransgenic cotton production era,...
An ontology design pattern for cooking recipes: classroom created

We present a description and result of an ontology modeling process taken to the classroom. The application domain considered was cooking recipes. The modeling goal was to bridge heterogeneity across representational choices by developing a content ontology design pattern which is general enough to allow for the integration of information from different web sites. We will discuss the pattern developed, and report on corresponding insights and lessons learned.
How Do U.S. Christians and Atheists Stereotype One Another’s Moral Values?

ABSTRACTMoral conflict between Christians and atheists is becoming increasingly heated amidst the U.S. “culture wars,” yet research has been mostly silent regarding how these groups stereotype one another’s moral values and beliefs. We used moral foundations theory to better understand the nature of such stereotypes. In Study 1, U.S. Christian and atheist participants completed measures of moral values from their own perspective as well as the perspectives of typical atheists and typical Christians. Whereas atheists believed their ingroup endorsed fairness/justice values more than Christians, Christians believed their ingroup endorsed all moral values more than atheists. Moreover, both groups held (often extremely) inaccurate stereotypes about the outgroup’s values. In Study 2, participants wrote explicitly about outgroup morality. Atheists typically described Christians more negatively than Christians described atheists, regardless of the moral foundation of concern. Also, Christians’ negative impression...
Understanding definitions of minimally verbal across instruments: evidence for subgroups within minimally verbal children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder

Background Minimally verbal (MV) children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are often assumed to be profoundly cognitively impaired and excluded from analyses due to challenges completing standardized testing protocols. A literature aimed at increasing understanding of this subgroup is emerging; however, the many methods used to define MV status make it difficult to compare studies. Understanding how different instruments and definitions used to identify MV children affect sample composition is critical to advance research on this understudied clinical population. Method The MV status of 1,470 school-aged children was defined using five instruments commonly used in ASD research. MV sample composition was compared across instruments. Analyses examined the proportion of overlap across MV subgroups and the extent to which child characteristics varied across MV subgroups defined using different definitions or combinations of measures. Results A total of 257 children were classified as MV on at least one instrument. Proportion of overlap between definitions ranged from 3% to 100%. The stringency of definition (i.e. few-to-no vs. some words) was associated with differences in cognitive and adaptive functioning; more stringent definitions yielded greater consistency of MV status across instruments. Cognitive abilities ranged from profoundly impaired to average intelligence; 16% had NVIQ ≥ 70. Approximately half exhibited verbal skills commensurate with nonverbal cognitive ability, whereas half had verbal abilities significantly lower than their estimated NVIQ. Conclusions Future studies of MV children must carefully consider the methods used to identify their sample, acknowledging that definitions including children with ‘some words’ may yield larger samples with a wider range of language and cognitive abilities. Broadly defined MV samples may be particularly important to delineate factors interfering with language development in the subgroup of children whose expressive impairments are considerably below their estimated nonverbal cognitive abilities.
Probabilistic Semantics and Pragmatics for the Language of Uncertainty

The idea that the probability of a conditional is the corresponding conditional probability has led something of an embattled existence in philosophy and linguistics. Part of the reason for the reluctance to embrace it has to do with certain technical difficulties (especially triviality). Even though solutions to the triviality problem are known to exist, their widespread adoption is hindered by their narrow range of data coverage and unclear relationship to established frameworks for modeling the dynamics of belief and conversation. This paper considers the case of Bernoulli models and proposes steps towards broadening the coverage of their application.
Seeking the Holy Grail: Assessing Outcomes of MPA Programs

NASPAA accreditation standards, university assessment processes, and program management have put an increased emphasis on outcome and performance measurement in MPA and related programs. Simple yet comprehensive measures are not easily found or are very difficult and expensive to create. Based on the trade-offs, this article proposes information that may be collected as a byproduct of MPA program operation and from supplemental processes. Use of these multiple measures can serve well in assessing MPA programs and in guiding their performance. Examples are given from a specific MPA program.
Facilities, opportunity, and crime: An exploratory analysis of places in two urban neighborhoods

Crime prevention strategists have long been examining the impact of land use on crime, particularly the effects of non-residential land use in the form of facilities. Places like bars, motels, schools, convenience stores, and check-cashing centers have been examined in relation to crime to the point that it seems we now have a “criminology of the unpopular” (Wilcox and Eck in Criminol Public Policy 10(2):473–482, 2011), whereby places of a particular type are assumed to inherently offer crime opportunity. However, other theoretical and empirical work suggests that facility type may not matter and that specific characteristics and contexts associated with crime opportunity at places should be measured as opposed to assuming that broad categories of land uses typically generate crime (e.g., Brantingham and Brantingham in Stud Crime Crime Prev 8(1):7–26, 1999; Eck et al. in Crime Prev Stud 21:225, 2007; Hart and Miethe in Secur J 27(2):180–193, 2014; Smith et al. in Criminology 38(2):489–524, 2000; Wilcox and Eck in Criminol Public Policy 10(2):473–482, 2011). As an exploratory test of this latter idea, the present study uses observational data collected repeatedly at a small number of places over a one-year period—including land-use types that are not typically associated with crime (i.e., gardens)—in order to examine whether land-use parcels of the same type but with differing criminal opportunities have differing levels of crime.
Examination of students’ acceptance and usage of simulation software technology in an advanced-level merchandising class

ABSTRACTCollege undergraduate classes have increased the use of technological resources or tools to enhance students’ educational experiences. The simulation software technology has been used in fashion merchandising courses at US universities. Based on the technology acceptance model, the purpose of this study was to examine how students perceived usefulness, ease of use, and enjoyment of the simulation software technology and how the perceived usefulness, ease of use, and enjoyment of the technology enhanced critical thinking skills in fashion merchandising. A survey of college students at a Midwestern university in the United States was conducted. Results show that students who perceived the simulation software technology as useful, easy to use, and enjoyable were more likely to perceive improvements in critical thinking skills after use of the technology. Findings from this study may help instructors develop a ‘technology-integrated’ course and learning activity using the simulation software technolog...
Factors Influencing Teachers’ Attitudes Toward Mobile Technology Integration in K-12

The purpose of the present study was to explore, in depth, the factors influencing teachers’ attitudes towards the integration of tablets into their classroom for teaching purposes. In order to achieve the purpose of the study, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 teachers from five rural middle schools in Palestine. A thematic analysis approach was used to analyze the interview data. The findings of the study revealed that teachers use tablets because it facilitates their teaching as well as provides equality of access to the Internet and educational technology for students in rural schools. Furthermore, there was diversity in teachers’ attitudes towards tablets based on a variety of factors such as technical support and the availability of suitable educational resources. Further research is needed to conduct a comparative study between schools and different topics.
Familial trigeminal neuralgia treated with stereotactic radiosurgery: a case report and literature review

Background Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is a chronic pain condition characterized by brief episodes of lancinating pain in one or more distributions of the trigeminal nerve. Episodes of pain secondary to TN are triggered by certain stimuli, such as chewing, shaving, or touching the face. Although a common cause of TN is compression of the trigeminal nerve root entry zone by an artery or vein, many cases of TN are idiopathic. However, there have been limited reports in the literature of familial TN.
Comparison of sleep variables between healthy participants and hospitalized acute myeloid leukemia patients treated with decitabine, followed by cytarabine.

e18022 Background: A recent survey study of patients with acute leukemia (93% inpatient) found that difficulty sleeping was one of the most prevalent patient complaints (55%), exceeded only by lack...
Spinal Cord Injury During Attempted Cervical Interlaminar Epidural Injection of Steroids.

Background Interlaminar cervical epidural injections are commonly performed in the practice of interventional pain medicine. Injury to the spinal cord following injection into the substance of the cord is a known complication of this procedure, but it has rarely been reported and illustrated in the literature. Objective To describe and analyze a case where an inadvertent injection of contrast medium into the cervical spinal cord occurred. Highlighted is the dissonance between how the procedure was performed and published guidelines for its performance. Presented is the first published oblique fluoroscopic image of an intramedullary injection. Conclusions By recognizing the potential complications of a procedure, and by describing means of avoiding those complications, practice guidelines serve to reduce the risk, and thereby the incidence of complications. Deviation from established best practice guidelines reinstates risks of complications that can be avoided.
Effect of Adrenalectomy on Albumin-Palmitate-1-C14 Oxidation.

SummaryOxidation of albumin-palmitate-1-C14 (NEFA) to C14O2 was studied in shamoperated and adrenalectomized rats fasted for 12-18 hours. The C14O2 yield was approximately the same in both animal groups. The conclusion is drawn that ability of rat tissues to oxidize long-chain fatty acids is not affected by adrenalectomy. The C14O2 production from albumin-palmitate complex is not related either to size of animal or to endogenous metabolism, as shown by total CO2 production.
Off-Clamp Robotically-Assisted Partial Nephrectomy in Polycystic Kidney Disease

Abstract Introduction: Partial nephrectomy (PN) in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (PCKD) is desirable in the setting of chronic kidney disease, but presents a technical challenge beca...