cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comparison of lung dendritic cells and B cells in stimulating naive antigen-specific T cells.

Dendritic cells (DCs) are specialized APCs that are important in priming naive T cells and can be manipulated in vitro and in vivo to enhance immunizations against microorganisms and tumors. A limitation in the development of suitable immunotherapeutic vaccines for the lung is incomplete information on the role of DCs and other potential APCs in the lung in priming naive T cells. In the current study, we analyzed the relative contributions of murine lung DCs and B cells to process and present OVA to naive CD4+ OVA323–339-specific (DO11.10) T cells in vitro. We also examined their expression of MHC class II and accessory molecules before and after maturation in culture. Similar to DCs from other sites, freshly isolated lung DCs can process OVA, spontaneously up-regulate MHC class II and accessory molecules during overnight culture, and stimulate naive T cells in an Ag-specific manner. In contrast, freshly isolated lung B cells were unable to both process and present native OVA. Furthermore, under conditions of limited OVA323–339 peptide exposure, B cells had a significantly diminished capacity to stimulate T cells, and this correlated with a decreased density of both MHC class II and important costimulatory molecules as compared with lung DCs.
A “Syndromic” Approach for Diagnosing and Managing Travel-Related Infectious Diseases in Children☆

ri P mary care physicians practicing in the United States are often less familiar with many of the common as well as more exotic diseases that children can acquire when traveling abroad. This review will focus mainly on infectious diseases specifically associated with travel-related exposures. While having access to reference material to help guide diagnostic resources and therapy is useful, it is most useful to have a consistent well-organized approach to help identify specific risk factors associated with both the most common and the most severe illnesses potentially occurring in a child who has recently traveled internationally. According to the National Travel and Tourism Office the number of Americans traveling abroad increased to more than 61.9 million in 2013. The main areas of travel included Europe at 34.6%, the Caribbean at 24.8%, Asia at 18.8%, South America at 7.3%, Central America at 6.9%, Africa at 3.1%, the Middle East at 5.9%, and Oceania at 1.9%. Nearly 27% of travel was to visit friends and families. This category accounts for a significant portion of the travel in the pediatric age groups. Although travel to Asia and Africa accounted for only 21.9% of US traveler the majority of travelrelated illnesses were acquired from Asia (32.6%) and sub-Saharan Africa (26.7%) according to a recent geosentinel-illness surveillance of returned international travelers presenting to the GeoSentinel Network. As
Building climate change resilience through local cooperation: a Peruvian Andes case study

Many of the problems faced by international projects intending to create adaptive social–ecological systems for climate change stem from lack of stakeholder engagement, limited understanding of local political, economic, and environmental complexities, and restricted time. Local organizations focused on conservation and development might have an advantage in creating adaptive social–ecological systems because they understand local processes and are involved with communities for extended periods of time. A local non-governmental organization, Asociacion Ecosistemas Andinos (ECOAN), works in twenty-one communities in the Andean highlands outside of Cusco to conserve the endangered Polylepis forests. As part of the conservation project, ECOAN supports community-led development projects such as building greenhouses. Data for this project were gathered through interviews (with community members in three different communities, ECOAN staff, and donors) and participant observation. This paper shows that ECOAN’s extensive use of participation has led to community ownership of the conservation and development projects. The communities’ close connections to the Polylepis project contribute to resilience through creating networks, extending the local environmental ethic to the Polylepis trees, supporting projects that diversify and strengthen community sustenance, and contributing to the growth of economic activities. This case study provides a positive example of the potential for local organizations and people to take charge of their own resiliency efforts where international projects and protocols may otherwise prove ineffective.
Pectin with low molecular weight and high degree of esterification increases absorption of 58Fe in growing rats.

Effects of pectins with different degrees of esterification (DE) and molecular weights (MW) on iron bioavailability were investigated in healthy growing rats by following erythrocyte incorporation of a dose of 58 Fe. Rats were fed a control diet for 8 d and then deprived of food for 16 h. Two hours after the start of feeding iron-deficient diets, with or without pectin (80 g/kg diet), a dose of FeSO 4 rich in 58 Fe (60.28%) was intubated into the stomach ; rats were then allowed to feed for an additional 4 h before withdrawal of food for 10 h. Rats were then fed iron-adequate diets for 9 d. The pectins differed in DE and MW, respectively, as follows : P-A (73%, 860,000), P-B (75%, 89,000), P-C (22%, 1,260,000) and P-D (24%, 114,000). Rats fed pectin-free diet with free access to food or restricted to the same quantity consumed by a respective pectin group served as controls. Iron absorption was 48% in the control group and 57% in rats fed P-B. Rats fed P-B had higher (P < 0.05) serum iron, transferrin saturation, hematocrit and liver and spleen iron than the control group or the group fed P-C. These indices, except for transferrin saturation, were also higher in rats fed P-A and P-D compared with those fed P-C and controls, but to a lesser extent than in rats fed P-B. The data indicate that bioavailability of dietary non-heme iron was enhanced when pectin of low MW and high DE was added to the diet. This improvement was not evident with pectins having high MW and/or low DE.
The Pancornulins: A Group of Small Proline Rich-Related Cornified Envelope Precursors with Bifunctional Capabilities in Isopeptide Bond Formation

In this report, the pancornulins are identified as members of the spr (small, proline-rich) multigene family by amino acid sequence and mass spectrometry analyses. One of the pancornulins (14.9 kDa) is identical to the protein predicted by spr-1 clone 128. The other pancornulins (16.9 kDa and 22 kDa) are novel members of the spr family. Immunoelectron microscopy of purified cornified envelopes with a pancornulin-specific antibody established these proteins more definitively as cornified envelope precursors. In addition, two-dimensional electrophoretic analyses of keratinocyte extracts labeled enzymatically with dansylcadaverine (to identify amine acceptors) or dansylPGGQQIV (to Identify amine donors) showed that both glutamine and lysine residues within the pancornulins participate in the isopeptide linkage characteristic of cornified envelope formation. These results contrasted with those obtained using involucrin, a prominent cornified envelope protein shown capable of acting only as an amine acceptor in this systems Novel partial cDNAs obtained after reverse transcription and polymerase chain reaction amplification of total messenger RNA with pancornulin-specific primers suggest that the spr multigene family may be even larger than previously described, The bifunctional reactivity of the pancornulins in cross-linking and the large number of family members identified to date suggest that the pancornulins and other spr-1-related proteins may be more important in cornified envelope formation than previously considered, perhaps functioning as "bridge" molecules during the early phases of cornified envelope assembly.
The use of dummy variables in trip generation analysis

Abstract In the beginning of this presentation, the use of dummy variables was suggested to overcome problems of non-linearity and category type variables. Where these problems do not exist, it is not recommended that this particular technique be used. The dummy variable technique is simply a tool to aid the analyst in model building. This technique, like most others, has both advantages and disadvantages. It does seem to aid in the interpretation of more complex non-linear and category type variables. In many cases a more clear and concise analysis can be made using the dummy variable technique than in the transgeneration of the independent variables. The particular approach to the use of dummy variables taken in this presentation represents only one of several approaches. For the reader who would like to explore this technique in more depth, it is suggested that he review the references listed in this presentation. The approach taken will be influenced by the objective of the particular study.
Eastern geothermal resources: should we pursue them?

A geothermal resource that consists of hot water at moderate temperatures (below 125°C) underlies many areas in the central and eastern United States. Programs funded by the Department of Energy have revealed that this resource is definable and economically competitive with conventional fuels for use in direct heat applications. The resource, therefore, has the potential for reducing our dependence on the imported oil used for space heating. However, front-end costs and risks to explore, drill, test, and evaluate the magnitude of the resource have inhibited development. The question is, therefore, how much federal stimulation will be needed to convince private capital to exploit this widespread low-quality energy source.
Low-jitter 10 GHz multiphase PLL in 90 nm CMOS

A 10 GHz multiphase phase-locked loop (PLL) implemented in 90 nm bulk CMOS technology is presented that uses a bootstrapped NMOS inverter oscillator to obtain steeper clock edges, which may yield an improved jitter performance. The measured values for the rms and peak-to-peak jitter are better than 1 and 7 ps, respectively.
Tool requirement planning in stochastic job shops: a simulated annealing approach

Abstract Tool management in shop floor control has been discussed widely in the recent literature. The need for an effective tool management system has been underscored by the impact of tool availability in flexible manufacturing systems and cellular manufacturing shops. With the understanding that most job shops face a budgetary constraint on the units of tools to be maintain, this paper presents an optimization model based on queueing theory for determining the number of units of tools to be maintained in stochastic job shop production systems. The optimization model seeks to minimize total tool related cost under some managerial and operational constraints. To plan tool requirement based on the optimization model, an improved simulated annealing algorithm is presented. Starting with an arbitrary initial solution, the algorithm searches for a solution among the combinatorial alternatives in a controlled random fashion. Unlike the iterative improvement algorithms, the simulated annealing algorithm is applicable to multimodal objective function due to its capability of probabilistic hill-climbing. To demonstrate the performance of the model and the algorithm, a medium-scale numerical example is also discussed in detail.
Time-dependent Hartree-Fock theory for atoms

The coupled and uncoupled versions of time-dependent Hartree–Fock theory are presented. The theory provides a way of calculating the linear response of an atomic system to an external time-dependent perturbation, and thence the Green's function. It is shown that the coupled version is equivalent to the Random Phase Approximation and that it contains correlation to at least first order, while the uncoupled version contains no correlation. The effect of the correlation included in the coupled version on the dipole spectrum of two electron systems is studied. This study is based on numerical solution of the equations for the dipole response of helium and lithium II. The coupled and uncoupled dipole spectra of helium and parts of these spectra of lithium II are given. Phase shifts for electron-helium ion scattering are also given. Calculations for helium of long range forces, average excitation energies involved in the theory of range and straggling of fast charged particles and the Lamb shift, and the two photon decay spectrum and radiative lifetimes for the decay (1s2s)1S (1s2)1S, are described. It is concluded that, for two electron systems, the correlation included in the coupled theory displaces rather too much dipole oscillator strength into the continuum (while maintaining the Thomas-Kuhn sum rule) and overestimates exchange in the energy levels and low energy phase shifts, and that the coupled dipole spectrum is more accurate than the uncoupled one.
Electrophoretic deposition of binary energetic composites

Abstract This work utilizes electrophoretic deposition (EPD) as a facile and effective method to deposit binary energetic composites. In particular, micron-scale aluminum and nano-scale copper oxide were co-deposited as a thin film onto a conductive substrate without the use of surfactants. For comparative purposes, films of this energetic mixture were also prepared by drop-casting (DC) the premixed suspension directly onto the substrate, then allowing the liquid to dry. The structure and microscopic features of the two types of films were compared using optical and electron microscopies. The films prepared using EPD had an appreciable density of 2.6 g/cm3, or 51% the theoretical maximum density, which was achieved without any further processing. According to the electron microscopy analysis, the EPD films exhibited much more uniformity in composition and film thickness than those produced by DC. Upon ignition, the EPD films resulted in a smoother and faster combustion event compared to the DC films. The dispersion stability was improved by adding water and decreasing the particle concentration, resulting in dispersions stable for >30 min, an ample amount of time for EPD. Patterned electrodes with fine feature sizes (20 × 0.25 mm) were then combined with EPD to deposit thin films of thermite for flame propagation velocity studies. The fastest velocity (1.7 m/s) was observed for an equivalence ratio of 1.6 ± 0.2 (Al fuel rich composition). This peak value was used to investigate the effect of film mass/thickness on propagation velocity. The deposition mass was varied from 20 to 213 μg/mm2, corresponding to a calculated range of film thicknesses from 9.8 to 104 μm. At lower masses, a flame did not propagate, indicating a critical mass (20 μg/mm2) or thickness (9.8 μm). Over the range of thicknesses, in which self-propagating combustion was observed, the flame velocity was found to be independent of sample thickness. The lack of a thickness dependence suggests that under these particular conditions heat losses are negligible, and thus the velocity is predominantly governed by the intrinsic reactivity and heat transfer through the material.
Identifying loops in almost linear time

Loop identification is an essential step in performing various loop optimizations and transformations. The classical algorithm for identifying loops is Tarjan's interval-finding algorithm, which is restricted to reducible graphs. More recently, serveral people have proposed extensions to Tarjan's algortihm to deal with irreducible graphs. Havlak presents one such extension, which constructs a loop-nesting forest for an arbitrary flow graph. We show that the running time of this algorithm is quadratic in the worst-case, and not almost linear as claimed. We then show how to modify the algorithm to make it run in almost linear time. We next consider the quadratic algorithm presented by Sreedhar et al. which constructs a loop-nesting forest different from the one constructed by Havlak algorithm. We show that this algorithm too can be adapted to run in almost linear time. We finally consider an algorithm due to Steensgaard, which constructs yet antoher loop-nesting forest. We show how this algorithm can be made more efficient by borrowing ideas from the other algorithms discussed earlier.
Challenges for predictive process simulation in sub 0.1 μm silicon devices

Abstract The promise of process simulation has always been that it could replace costly experiments in the development of new technology. The reality has been far less, primarily because of deficiencies in the physical models underlying such simulations. This situation is changing rapidly however, as better physically based models are developed. This paper describes recent progress in developing physically based process simulators like SUPREM. A number of examples will be shown which will illustrate the growing predictive power of such TCAD tools, even for silicon structures well beyond current manufacturing practice.
A reciprocal approach to peacemaking criminology: Between adversarialism and mutualism

In the process of characterizing the dialectics of adversarialism and mutualism, a case is made for a reciprocal approach to peacemaking criminology. As part of the rationale for a reciprocity of m...
“THE SECRETS OF GOOD BREWING, THE FOLLY OF STINGINESS”: ADAM BEDE 'S CARNIVAL

… the arrival of the ale made an agreeable diversion; for Adam had to give his opinion of the new tap, which could not be otherwise than complimentary to Mrs Poyser; and then followed a discussion on the secrets of good brewing, the folly of stinginess in ‘hopping,’ and the doubtful economy of a farmer's making his own malt. Mrs Poyser had so many opportunities of expressing herself with weight on these subjects, that by the time supper was ended, the ale mug refilled, and Mr Poyser's pipe alight, she was once more in high good-humour, and ready, at Adam's request, to fetch the broken spinning-wheel for his inspection. —George Eliot, Adam Bede
Global decline in ocean ventilation, oxygenation, and productivity during the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum: Implications for the benthic extinction

The prominent global warming event at the Paleocene-Eocene boundary (55 Ma), referred to as the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM), was characterized by rapid temperature increase and changes in the global carbon cycle in
A nuclear pore complex protein that contains zinc finger motifs, binds DNA, and faces the nucleoplasm

We have molecularly cloned and sequenced a cDNA for a rat liver nucleoporin with a molecular mass of 152.8 kd, termed nup153, that shares a repetitive degenerate pentapeptide motif with a subgroup of nucleoporins of yeast and vertebrates. However, its most striking feature is a novel 4-fold repeat of a Cys2-Cys2-type zinc finger motif. When expressed in E. coli, the zinc finger domain of nup153 binds DNA in a zinc-dependent fashion. Immunoelectron microscopy localized nup153 exclusively to the nucleoplasmic side of the nuclear pore complex. We suggest that nup153 recognizes a specific DNA sequence to organize the genome three-dimensionally and to gate transcribable genes to nuclear pore complexes.
Identification of the 5' regulatory elements of avian lipoprotein lipase gene: synergistic effect of multiple factors.

Abstract The organization of cis-acting regulatory elements of the chicken lipoprotein lipase gene was investigated in 5.4 kb of 5′ flanking sequences. Various lengths of 5′ flanking sequence were linked to the bacterial chloramphenicol acyltransferase (CAT) gene and transfected into primary cultures of chicken adipocytes by DEAE-dextran transfection method. Negative elements are present between −1947 and −139 of the 5′ flanking sequence. Removal of these sequences revealed the presence of positive elements located within 138 bp upstream of the major transcription start site. Sequence analysis showed that the region from the major transcription start site to −138 contains an inverted GC box (ACCACGCCCC), a CCAAT element and two direct repeats of the octamer motif, ATTTGCAT. DNase I footprinting assays using a probe extending from −175 to +191, identified three sites protected by nuclear factors. Site I (−126 to −123), a C-rich sequence, GCCC, was identified only on the coding strand. Site II covered the sequence from −95 to −68 and includes the GC box. Site III, from −53 to −26, contained two octamer repeats. Site I is the 5′ portion of a 10 bp sequence (CCCTCCCCCC; −126/−116) which is perfectly conserved in the avian and the human promoter. Single or multiple copies of a 37 bp DNA fragment (−138/−102) containing the 10 bp conserved sequence were cloned into LPLCAT-51, upstream or downstream of the major transcription start site and in both orientations; transfection and CAT activity assays with these constructs indicate that the −138/−102 fragment has an enhancer like activity. Additional 5′ and internal deletions of LPLCAT-138 suggest that the factors binding to the C-rich element, the GC box and the two octamer repeats have a synergistic effect on promoter activity.
Hydroxychloroquine in lupus pregnancy.

Objective Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is often needed to manage disease activity in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) during pregnancy. The purpose of this study was to examine lupus activity and pregnancy outcomes in women with SLE treated or not treated with HCQ during pregnancy. Methods This was a prospective study of pregnancies in women with SLE who were evaluated between 1987 and 2002. The pregnancies were divided into 3 groups: no HCQ exposure during pregnancy (163 pregnancies), continuous use of HCQ during pregnancy (56 pregnancies), or cessation of HCQ treatment either in the 3 months prior to or during the first trimester of pregnancy (38 pregnancies). The pregnancy outcomes, fetal outcomes, and lupus activity during pregnancy were compared among these groups. Results The rates of miscarriage, stillbirth, pregnancy loss, and congenital abnormality were not statistically different among the 3 groups. The degree of lupus activity during pregnancy, however, was significantly higher in women who stopped taking HCQ. These women had a higher degree of lupus activity, as measured by the physician's estimate of lupus activity and the SLE Disease Activity Index, as well as an increased rate of flare, during pregnancy. More serious lupus complications, such as proteinuria and thrombocytopenia, were not significantly higher in women who stopped taking HCQ. Women who continued taking HCQ were maintained on a lower average dose of prednisone during pregnancy. Conclusion We recommend the continuation of HCQ treatment during pregnancy. Our findings are consistent with prior reports of the absence of fetal toxicity. Similar to studies of nonpregnant women, the cessation of HCQ treatment during pregnancy increases the degree of lupus activity.
Hospitality & Tourism Educators vs. The Industry: A Competency Assessment

Abstract The purpose of this study is to determine the discrepancies, if any, in the competencies being taught in the classroom for hospitality tourism students versus what lodging and food and beverage professionals believe are the most important competencies to be taught. Personal interviews were conducted with both educators of, and industry professionals working in, lodging management, and the food and beverage industry. The results, incorporated into a competency domain model, indicate that there are small gaps between professionals and educators in both industries. This discovery suggests that lines of communication are not fully open between educators and professionals.
High-throughput applicable genomic sex typing of chicken by TaqMan real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction

ABSTRACT Genetic sex typing of vertebrate animals is an essential technique for research on reproductive phenomena such as sex determination of embryonic tissues. Polymerase chain reaction amplification of genomic DNA segments in the Z and W sex chromosomes has been widely used as a standard laboratory method to determine genetic sex of the chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus). However, conventional protocols for PCR determination of avian sex typically involve tedious steps of genomic DNA isolation, which often require relatively large amounts of tissue samples, and the purity of genomic DNA specimens significantly affects PCR efficiency. Moreover, detection of sex chromosome-specific PCR products by gel electrophoresis is prone to misjudgment caused by amplification of contaminating genomic DNA segments derived from tissue or DNA samples as well as previously generated PCR products. Thus, the credibility of genetic sex typing by conventional PCR-based methods that measure the relative amounts of the end product DNA amplicons critically depends on several experimental steps that are potentially vulnerable to errors. Here, we describe an optimized protocol of chicken genetic sex typing by TaqMan real-time quantitative PCR amplification of markers on the sex chromosomes. This TaqMan sex typing method accurately quantifies relative amounts of the Z and W sex chromosome markers directly from only 0.5 to 2 μL of total blood lysate without nucleic acid purification. The real-time amplification curves of the quantitative PCR reaction readily distinguishe truly homozygous (ZZ) and heterozygous (ZW) sex chromosomes from contamination of the sex chromosomal DNA, ensuring highly credible sex determination. Thus, the TaqMan typing of chicken genetic sex has several advantageous features for high-throughput operation compared with conventional methods.
Effects of ganglion blocking agents on nicotine extensor convulsions and lethality in mice.

Abstract 1. The ganglion blocking agents, chlorisondamine, pentamethonium, mecamylamine, decamethonium and hexamethonium all block nicotine extensor convulsions when administered intraventricularly in mice. Tetraethylammonium was inactive. 2. For the intraventricular route, there is a relationship between ganglionic blocking potency and blocking of nicotine extensor convulsions. Indirect evidence suggests that the site(s) of action of nicotine extensor convulsions and lethality is central in origin and associated with brain areas near the ventricles. 3. When ganglion blocking agents are given orally, subcutaneously or intravenously varying degrees of protection can be observed probably depending on factors such as whether or not the drugs cross the blood-brain barrier, absorption, etc., and the effectiveness in protecting mice from nicotine is not related to ganglionic blocking potency. 4. Atropine and morphine given intraventricularly or subcutaneously did not protect mice from the LD95 of nicotine. Chlorpromazine gave very erratic results and phenobarbitone was effective subcutaneously and to a lesser extent intraventricularly.
Psychiatric characteristics of children with selective mutism: a pilot study.

ABSTRACT Objective To ascertain characteristics of children with selective mutism. Method Subjects with selective mutism were evaluated by means of parent and teacher rating scales and structured diagnostic interviews. Results Thirty children were evaluated. Mutism severity varied markedly in different environmental settings. Ninety-seven percent of the subjects were diagnosed with social phobia or avoidant disorder of childhood or adolescence or both and 30% with simple phobia. No other psychiatric disorders were common. Parent and teacher rating scales showed high levels of anxiety symptoms, especially social anxiety, and low levels of all other psychiatric symptoms. Anxiety and social anxiety severity correlated with mutism severity. First-degree family history of social phobia and of selective mutism, obtained by family history method, was present in 70% and 37% of families, respectively. There was no evidence of a causal relationship between psychologically or physically traumatic experiences and development of selective mutism. Conclusions Selective mutism may be a symptom of social anxiety, rather than a distinct diagnostic syndrome. Further study of the characteristics of children with selective mutism and their families is warranted. J. Am. Acad. Child Adolesc. Psychiatry , 1995, 34, 7:847–856.
In vitro chondrocyte behavior on porous biodegradable poly (e-caprolactone)/polyglycolic acid scaffolds for articular chondrocyte adhesion and proliferation

In this study, poly(e-caprolactone)/polyglycolic acid (PCL/PGA) scaffolds for repairing articular cartilage were fabricated via solid-state cryomilling along with compression molding and porogen leaching. Four distinct scaffolds were fabricated using this approach by four independent cryomilling times. These scaffolds were assessed for their suitability to promote articular cartilage regeneration with in vitro chondrocyte cell culture studies. The scaffolds were characterized for pore size, porosity, swelling ratio, compressive, and thermal properties. Cryomilling time proved to significantly affect the physical, mechanical, and morphological properties of the scaffolds. In vitro bovine chondrocyte culture was performed dynamically for 1, 7, 14, 28, and 35 days. Chondrocyte viability and adhesion were tested using MTT assay and scanning electron microscopy micrographs. Glycosaminoglycan (GAG) and DNA assays were performed to investigate the extracellular matrix (ECM) formation and cell proliferation, resp...
Visualizing vascular structures

We have developed a set of tools to build 3D images of vascular structures from contiguous slices. Slices were obtained from plastic-filled vascular casts. Major vascular branches on each slice were revealed and observed under the optical microscope. A series of video images of the branches on contiguous slices were then digitized. Each image was processed to isolate the vessels of interest. A user interface was built to select diameters, depths, and branching angles. A 3D image can then be viewed from any angle.
DEMONSTRATION‐BASED BEHAVIOR PROGRAMMING FOR EMBODIED VIRTUAL AGENTS

We present a novel technique for behavioral animation through data-driven behavior synthesis. This technique has two key features: it provides natural character behavior and has a programming-by-demonstration interface. Thus we can quickly create compelling autonomous virtual agents that exhibit stylized behavior. First, the human user demonstrates behavior for the character by specifying its high-level actions (e.g., with a joystick) during an interactive session. Each demonstration is recorded as a sequence of discrete actions. Later, the character synthesizes novel behavior by concatenating segments of action sequences. The choice of segments is guided by simulations that predict fitness. Thus our technique operates such as a cognitive model, providing a character with deliberative decision making. The actions are abstract and can be mapped to any pertinent motions, even procedurally synthesized motions. Thus our technique complements character animation algorithms. We empirically show that our O(log n) technique is scalable, robust when provided with sufficient data, produces effective behavior for a number of problem domains, and is faster than traditional planning. Also, the interface is intuitive enough that character behavior can be created by nontechnical users.
Immunomodulation to enhance gene therapy

Many obstacles to successful gene therapy remain to be overcome. Now one of them may be less imposing (pages 890–893).
A survey of recent publications in pastoral psychological fields

The author calls attention to a number of recent publications to assist pastors in selecting titles which will prove most helpful to them. He discusses books of general interest on religion and ministry, books on counseling and psychotherapy, books on psychology and personality, and books in theology, ethics and philosophy.
Influence of salary on faculty recruitment and retention: current pharmacy faculty salaries relative to past faculty, community practitioners, and new hires

Abstract Objectives To examine faculty and practitioner salary over time and to examine the evidence for the existence of faculty salary compression. Methods Salary data were extracted from the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP) Faculty Profile salary reports from 1975–2008 and from Drug Topics, and then corrected for inflation. Results Faculty salaries have increased over time, although not as much as practitioner compensation. The gap between new and experienced assistant professors closed. Salary inversion was found. Practitioner-heavy faculty disciplines showed more compression. Academic year positions showed more inversion. Dean salary increased at the highest rate. Conclusions Overall faculty compensation has improved. Faculty salary inversion exists and the existence of faculty salary compression is indisputable. Associates suffered the largest relative reduction in salary across faculty ranks. Job dissatisfaction because of inadequate salary is a likely factor in the current shortage of faculty directly as a source of job dissatisfaction, and indirectly via faculty with high levels of job dissatisfaction influencing potential future faculty in a negative manner.
Invariant Subspaces and Nevanlinna–Pick Kernels

Abstract A theorem of Beurling–Lax–Halmos represents a subspace M of H2 C ( D )—the Hardy space of analytic functions with values in the Hilbert space E and square summable power series—invariant for multiplication by z as ΦH2 F , where F is a subspace of E and Φ is an inner function with values in L ( F , E ). When the Hardy space is replaced by the Hilbert space H(k) determined by a Nevanlinna–Pick kernel k, such as the Dirichlet kernel or the row contraction kernel on the ball in C d, the BLH Theorem survives with F an auxiliary Hilbert space and Φ a L ( F , E ) valued function which is inner in the sense that the operator MΦ of multiplication by Φ is a partial isometry. Under mild additional hypotheses, when E = C , Mz, the operator of multiplication by z, is cellularly indecomposable and has the codimension one property; however, if M is invariant for Mz, M ⊖Mz M need not be a cyclic subspace for Mz restricted to M .
Modeling nitrogen transport and transformation in aquifers using a particle-tracking approach

We have integrated multispecies biodegradation and geochemical reactions into an existing particle-tracking code to simulate reactive transport in three-dimensional variably saturated media, with a focus on nitrification and denitrification processes. This new numerical model includes reactive air-phase transport so that gases such as N2 and CO2 can be tracked. Although nitrogen biodegradation is the primary problem addressed here, the method presented is also applicable to other reactive multispecies transport problems. We verified the model by comparison with (1) analytical solutions for saturated one- and two-dimensional cases; (2) a finite element model for a one-dimensional unsaturated case; and (3) laboratory observations for a one-dimensional saturated case. Good agreement between the new code and the verification problems is demonstrated. The new model can simulate nitrogen transport and transformation in a heterogeneous permeability field where sharp concentration gradients are present. An example application to nitrogen species biodegradation and transport of a plume emanating from a leaking sewer in a heterogeneous, variably saturated aquifer is presented to illustrate this capability. This example is a novel application of coupling unsaturated/saturated zone transport with nitrogen species biodegradation. The code has the computational advantages of particle-tracking algorithms, including local and global mass conservation and minimal numerical dispersion. We also present new methods for improving particle code efficiency by implementing the concept of tracking surplus/deficit particles and particle recycling in order to control the growth of particle numbers. The new model retains the advantages of the particle tracking approach such as allowing relatively low spatial and temporal resolutions to be used, while incorporating the robustness of grid-based Monod kinetics to simulate biogeochemical reactions. Display Omitted We present a particle-tracking based nitrogen transport and transformation model.The model includes the Monod kinetics and inorganic geochemical reactions.The model was verified with other models and laboratory observations.The model was applied to a heterogeneous site that has a leaking sewer.The optimized code will facilitate application at large scales.
Connections between Potential Vorticity Intrusions and Convection in the Eastern Tropical Pacific

Abstract The connections between intrusions of stratospheric air into the upper troposphere and deep convection in the tropical eastern Pacific are examined using a combination of data analysis, potential vorticity (PV) inversion, and numerical simulations. Analysis of NCEP–NCAR reanalyses and satellite measurements of outgoing longwave radiation during intrusion events shows increased cloudiness, lower static stability, upward motion, and a buildup of convective available potential energy (CAPE) at the leading edge of the intruding tongue of high PV. Potential inversion inversion calculations show that the upper-level PV makes the dominant contribution to the changes in the quantities that characterize convection. This supports the hypothesis that upper-level PV anomalies initiate and support convection by destabilizing the lower troposphere and causing upward motion ahead on the PV tongue. The dominant role of the upper-level PV is confirmed by simulations using the fifth-generation Pennsylvania State U...
Flight Performance Feasibility Studies for the Max Launch Abort System

In 2007, the NASA Engineering and Safety Center (NESC) initiated the Max Launch Abort System Project to explore crew escape system concepts designed to be fully encapsulated within an aerodynamic fairing and smoothly integrated onto a launch vehicle. One objective of this design was to develop a more compact launch escape vehicle that eliminated the need for an escape tower, as was used in the Mercury and Apollo escape systems and what is planned for the Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle (MPCV). The benefits for the launch vehicle of eliminating a tower from the escape vehicle design include lower structural weights, reduced bending moments during atmospheric flight, and a decrease in induced aero-acoustic loads. This paper discusses the development of encapsulated, towerless launch escape vehicle concepts, especially as it pertains to the flight performance and systems analysis trade studies conducted to establish mission feasibility and assess system-level performance. Two different towerless escape vehicle designs are discussed in depth: one with allpropulsive control using liquid attitude control thrusters, and a second employing deployable aft swept grid fins to provide passive stability during coast. Simulation results are presented for a range of nominal and off-nominal escape conditions.
Effect of E. coli J5 vaccine and intramammary challenge with live Escherichia coli in lactating dairy goats

Abstract Ten lactating goats were randomly assigned to two groups of five vaccinates and five controls. The vaccine was a heat-killed rough mutant strain of Escherichia coli (E. coli) J5 containing 1.5 × 109 organisms per ml in incomplete Freund's adjuvant. The vaccinated group received three 1 ml doses of vaccine 14 days apart. The control group received three 1 ml doses of incomplete Freund's adjuvant in a similar regimen. Seventeen days after the third dose of vaccine or Freund's adjuvant all goats were intramammarily (IM) challenged with 15 colony forming units of live virulent E. coli into each teat. Severe clinical signs such as depression, anorexia and prolonged recumbency were observed after challenge in the control goats. In vaccinated goats the signs were less severe, although they had some depression and anorexia for 36 h postchallenge. Body temperature of the animals in both groups increased after challenge with live E. coli. However, peak temperature was significantly lower in vaccinated goats compared with control goats. E. coli count in the milk of vaccinated goats was significantly lower compared with control goats after IM challenge. E. coli from the milk of vaccinated goats was removed more rapidly compared with control goats. Serum J5 antibody levels of vaccinated goats were significantly higher on Days 14, 21, 28, 35 and 42 after vaccination. After challenge a significantly higher serum J5 antibody level was observed in vaccinated goats at 12, 24, 48 and 72 h. Milk anti-J5 antibody levels were significantly higher on Day 28 after vaccination in vaccinated goats. This study concludes that J5 vaccine provides partial protection against E. coli intramammary challenge and goats can be used as an economic model for studying bovine mastitis.
Finiteness in restricted simplicial decomposition

Simplicial decomposition is an important form of decomposition for large non-linear programming problems with linear constraints. Von Hohenbalken has shown that if the number of retained extreme points is n + 1, where n is the number of variables in the problem, the method will reach an optimal simplex after a finite number of master problems have been solved (i.e., after a finite number of major cycles). However, on many practical problems it is infeasible to allocate computer memory for n + 1 extreme points. In this paper, we present a version of simplicial decomposition where the number of retained extreme points is restricted to r, 1 =< r =< n + 1, and prove that if r is sufficiently large, an optimal simplex will be reached in a finite number of major cycles. This result insures rapid convergence when r is properly chosen and the decomposition is implemented using a second order method to solve the master problem.
Surface properties and adhesion of wood fiber reinforced thermoplastic composites

Abstract The surface chemistry, wettability and topography of wood fiber reinforced thermoplastic composites were evaluated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, contact angle analysis and profilometry. Wood plastic composites have a low surface energy (31 mJ/m2), a large surface roughness R (rms) (3.5–7.4 μm) and a large wetting hysteresis (63–90 mJ/m2) that stems from surface roughness, chemical heterogeneity and viscoelastic energy dissipation. Using a 180° peel test the adhesion of an acrylic coating on wood plastic composites was evaluated and a positive linear correlation (R2 = 0.89) between peel load and wetting hysteresis indicated that the wetting hysteresis was a good predictor of adhesion. Furthermore, strong linear correlations were found between peel load and surface roughness for formulations using polypropylene (R2 = 0.79) and formulations using high density polyethylene (R2 = 0.97). Formulations with polypropylene, which had higher surface wood index, also developed higher peel loads. Similarly formulations that did not use a maleic anhydride polypropylene coupling agent, which had higher surface roughness and have higher molecular mobility, also developed higher peel loads. Consequently surface roughness, polarity and viscoelastic energy dissipation mechanisms were proposed to be critical factors of adhesion on wood–plastic composites explaining the parallel between wetting hysteresis and peel load.
Analysis of stresses arising during the processing of polymeric films on tentering frames

A model based on linear elasticity is presented describing the stresses arising during the processing of polymeric films on tenter frames. The model demonstrates that large in-plane shear stresses, resulting from gradients in the line, produce anisotropic stresses in the film. The magnitude of the anisotropy is found to vary transversely across the line, becoming isotropic in the center and achieving maximum values at the edges of the line. The principal directions of the stress tend to lie at ±45° to the machine direction but may be altered by machine and transverse drawing by the frame. These results agree with orientation measurements reported in the literature on polyimide films produced on tentering frames.
Why Violence Abates: Imposed and Elective Declines in Terrorist Attacks

Previous scholarship on variations in violence within a given terrorist organization has primarily focused on factors that lead to the inception or destruction of that organization. However, violence varies substantially even during the “prime” of an organization's life. This article aims to understand why violence varies in the short term within many organizations, and places a special focus on declines in violence. Specifically, I argue that terrorists face countervailing incentives in terms of how much violence to use, and that when declines in violent activity do occur, they can be divided into two types: a) elective declines, which are usually temporary and used for organizational or reputational recovery; and b) imposed declines, which are dictated by changes in the relative capability of an organization, and are more likely to be permanent. The causal pathways to each type of decline are discussed, and a plausibility probe, consisting of case studies of three terrorist organizations, is then develo...
Implementation of AF-CBT by Community Practitioners Serving Child Welfare and Mental Health: A Randomized Trial

The Partnerships for Families project is a randomized clinical trial designed to evaluate the implementation of Alternatives for Families: A Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (AF-CBT), an evidence-based treatment for family conflict, coercion, and aggression, including child physical abuse. To evaluate the effectiveness of a training program in this model, 182 community practitioners from 10 agencies were randomized to receive AF-CBT training (n = 90) using a learning community model (workshops, consultation visits) or Training as Usual (TAU; n = 92) which provided trainings per agency routine. Practitioners completed self-report measures at four time points (0, 6, 12, and 18 months following baseline). Of those assigned to AF-CBT, 89% participated in at least one training activity and 68% met a "training completion" definition. A total of 80 (44%) practitioners were still active clinicians in the study by 18-month assessment in that they had not met our staff turnover or study withdrawal criteria. Using an intent-to-train design, hierarchical linear modeling analyses revealed significantly greater initial improvements for those in the AF-CBT training condition (vs. TAU condition) in CBT-related knowledge and use of AF-CBT teaching processes, abuse-specific skills, and general psychological skills. In addition, practitioners in both groups reported significantly more negative perceptions of organizational climate through the intervention phase. These significant, albeit modest, findings are discussed in the context of treatment training, research, and work force issues as they relate to the diverse backgrounds, settings, and populations served by community practitioners.
CMOS-compatible traction stress sensor for use in high-resolution tactile imaging

Abstract A microstructure capable of resolving the three independent components of a point traction stress has been developed. The sensor exhibits an independent, linear response to each of the three components of an applied traction stress with measurement sensitivities of 51 mV kPa −1 in the normal stress mode and 12 mV kPa −1 in the two shear stress modes. The sensor is realized using a fabrication process that is fully CMOS compatible to allow for the future integration of local processing and control circuitry. High spatial resolution robotic tactile sensing should be possible with the sensor structure, since each element is less than 300 μm × 300 μm in size. A description of the sensor structure, the required signal processing and mechanical characterization data is presented.
Kinematics of the chest wall during speech production: volume displacements of the rib cage, abdomen, and lung.

The chest wall has been treated as a two-part kinematic system comprised of the rib cage and diaphragm-abdomen in parallel, and wherein the volume displaced by each part is linearly related to the ...