cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abstract 1809: Stimulation of antibody dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity by interleukin-15 is equivalent to interleukin-2

Proceedings: AACR 102nd Annual Meeting 2011‐‐ Apr 2‐6, 2011; Orlando, FL An important strategy for the treatment of cancer involves administration of tumor-specific antibodies that target tumor cells for destruction by the individual's leukocytes via antibody dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC). However, ADCC is frequently depressed in individuals with cancer. Interleukin-2 (IL-2), a pro-inflammatory cytokine, enhances ADCC and is used clinically for this purpose. Interleukin-15 (IL-15) is a cytokine that shares many functions with IL-2, including stimulation of ADCC and proliferation and activation of natural killer cells. In contrast to IL-2, IL-15 supports the survival of CD8+ memory T cells, does not produce T cell activation-induced cell death and has no marked effects on Treg cells. Since these different functions may prove beneficial when using a cytokine to stimulate ADCC in vivo in cancer immunotherapy, we compared the in vitro effect of IL-15 (generously provided by Dr. Stephen Creekmore, NCI-Frederick) versus IL-2 to enhance ADCC. Using a standard 51Cr release assay, M21 human melanoma cells were loaded with 51Cr and incubated for four hours at 37° with human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC), hu14.18K322A, (generously provided by Dr. Fariba Navid of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital) a monoclonal antibody specific for GD2 (disialoganglioside) that is overexpressed on M21 cells (5 ng/ml), and either media, IL-2 (10 ng/ml) or IL-15 (10 ng/ml). The ratio of effectors (PBMCs) to targets (M21) was 10:1 or 30:1 and % cytotoxicity was determined from which lytic units were calculated. Incubation with IL-2 augmented ADCC from 163±39 to 230±40 lytic units (n=6, mean±SEM) while incubation with IL-15 enhanced ADCC from 148±27 to 229±36 lytic units (n=6). ADCC response was comparable for IL-2 and IL-15 (p=0.4857) and similar results were obtained using higher and lower concentrations of hu14.18K322A (0.1 – 100 ng/ml) and IL-2 and IL-15 (5 – 25 ng/ml), and after pre-incubation of PBMCs with IL-2 or IL-15 (4 – 44 hours). These experiments indicate that IL-2 and IL-15 demonstrate comparable stimulation of ADCC in vitro. If IL-15 produces equivalent enhancement of ADCC compared to IL-2 in vivo, it may be a potential immunotherapeutic for cancer. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1809. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-1809
High-resolution spatial measurements of minefield vegetation density and modeled surface heat flux

Thermal infrared signatures of natural landscapes can vary greatly temporally and spatially. In our research, we describe our preliminary results of the spatial variability of vegetation thermal infrared signatures and vegetation density in a mid-western test minefield characterized by a linear PAR (Photosynthetically Active Radiation) ceptometer and ground-based laser radar. The linear PAR ceptometer consists of a probe about 80-cm long that contains 80 photodiodes that are sensitive to the PAR waveband. The probe calculates leaf area index (LAI, projected leaf area per unit ground area) based on sun zenith angle, leaf angle distribution, and fraction of solar beam radiation. For the 50-m by 175-m test area, the vegetation leaf area index varied from 0.1 to 4.8 and laser measured vegetation height ranged from 0.1-m to 1.9-m. The high-resolution laser radar data are used to estimate high-resolution leaf area index from the coarse PAR ceptometer measurements. These data, combined with local meteorological data, are then used to model the spatial (0.5-m) distribution of surface heat flux under a vegetation canopy.
Operational Considerations of Deploying Wimax Technology as a Last-Mile Tactical Communication System

With the recent finalization of the IEEE's 802.16e-2005 standard and the upcoming test and certification of WiMAX products, mobile broadband services are becoming a reality. As an IP-based solution, mobile WiMAX technology will provide converged video, voice, and data services to mobile users. For future Department of Defense (DoD) operations, this emerging technology has the potential to significantly increase situational awareness and collaborative communications in tactical environments where users are typically constrained to low data-rate tactical networks or bandwidth-constrained terrestrial circuits for last-mile communication. Increasing the bandwidth capabilities of these tactical networks will support the dissemination of real-time streaming video and high-resolution imagery and maps, as well as collaborative communication including messaging, voice, and white boarding between users. Although WiMAX technology can significantly enhance the capabilities of forward-deployed Warfighters, deploying a Commercial-off-the-Shelf (COTS) solution in a tactical environment faces several unique implementation challenges. To investigate the capabilities and challenges of deploying a tactical WiMAX network, DISA is developing a live pre-WiMAX demonstration and test network using currently available, unlicensed broadband wireless equipment. Leveraging DISA's market analysis and demonstration effort, this paper addresses the operational considerations of deploying WiMAX technology in a tactical environment. Examining different network deployment scenarios, this paper addresses the challenges these deployments will face and describes how they will be addressed. Finally, this paper discusses how the WiMAX network will support additional services including locality-based communication and tracking services as well as the backhaul of video, imagery, and sensor data.
A psychophysical model for gustatory quality

Abstract Nineteen gustatory stimuli were ordered in a multidimensional space using two types of psychophysical data: judgments of similarities among the stimuli, and semantic differential ratings of the stimuli. The relationships between the stimuli in the two resultant spaces were quite similar. Since the structure of the space based on similarity judgments was more stable over subjects and seemed to represent more completely the tastes of the stimuli, it was considered more appropriate as a gustatory model. Using the semantic differential descriptions as well as physical continua to designate useful dimensions, it was found that the similarity space based on equi-intensive gustatory stimuli could be accurately represented by three criteria: relative goodness or badness of the taste of the stimuli, molecular weight, and departure of the stimuli from the neutral pH of 7. This model, specific to the concentrations used, shows similarities to previous psychophysical models, especially Henning's, as well as models of stimulus relationships based on neural gustatory data.
Shapeshifting: Reversible Shape Memory in Semicrystalline Elastomers

We present a general strategy for enabling reversible shape transformation in semicrystalline shape memory (SM) materials, which integrates three different SM behaviors: conventional one-way SM, two-way reversible SM, and one-way reversible SM. While two-way reversible shape memory (RSM) is observed upon heating and cooling cycles, the one-way RSM occurs upon heating only. Shape reversibility is achieved through partial melting of a crystalline scaffold which secures memory of a temporary shape by leaving a latent template for recrystallization. This behavior is neither mechanically nor structurally constrained, thereby allowing for multiple switching between encoded shapes without applying any external force, which was demonstrated for different shapes including hairpin, coil, origami, and a robotic gripper. Fraction of reversible strain increases with cross-linking density, reaching a maximum of ca. 70%, and then decreases at higher cross-linking densities. This behavior has been shown to correlate with...
Hydrolytic Degradation of Polyester Blend Monolayers at the Air/Water Interface: Effects of a Slowly Degrading Component

The hydrolytic behavior of monolayers of biodegradable [poly(l-lactide)/poly(e-caprolactone)] (l-PLA/PCL) blends spread at the air/water interface is studied to identify the relative rate of hydrolytic degradation of each component when exposed to a basic subphase. As the hydrolysis time increases, the isotherm recorded from (l-PLA/PCL) blend monolayers was found to be similar to that of PCL homopolymer; this is likely due to the preferred hydrolysis of l-PLA. The rate of hydrolysis was recorded by a change of occupied area when the monolayer is maintained at a constant surface pressure. The hydrolysis of the blend in a basic condition was much faster than that of each homopolymer, regardless of the composition, arising from a dilution effect on the concentration of l-PLA monolayers. From the deviation behavior (D) between the arithmetic average and experimental values, blends with compositions less than 50 mol % l-PLA showed the maximum dilution effect (Dt = 0.11t, where t is hydrolysis time) whereas hig...
Bounds on the reachable sets of nonlinear control systems

The computation of rigorous enclosures of the reachable sets of nonlinear control systems is considered, with a focus on applications for which speed is crucial. Low computational costs make interval methods based on differential inequalities an attractive option. Unfortunately, such methods are prone to large overestimation and often produce useless results in practice. From physical considerations, however, it is common that some crude set is known to contain the reachable set. We establish a general bounding result, based on differential inequalities, which enables the effective use of such sets during the bounding procedure. In the case where this set is a convex polyhedron, an efficient implementation using interval computations is developed. Using readily available physical information from practical examples, this method is shown to provide significant advantages over alternative methods in terms of both efficiency and accuracy.
Social Capital in Virtual Organizations

In this fast growing world, rapid alterations in technologies result in having a huge influence on humans' standard of living, increase global opportunities and globalize shareholders' activities. Executives all over the world are expected to utilize the right technology in order to gain the high level of success for their organizations. These executives require sustainable knowledge, techniques and tools that will allow them to continue to advance and remain ahead of the competition in the business environment. In this paper, we consider the techniques that will give a clear analysis of how social capital can be created within virtual teams or organizations and what value is created with the help of social capital. It will help organizations to examine the type of value they already created with social capital and its reflection in the future.
Big five personality factors and cigarette smoking: A 10-year study among US adults

The present study examined the relation between the big five personality traits and any lifetime cigarette use, progression to daily smoking, and smoking persistence among adults in the United States (US) over a ten-year period. Data were drawn from the Midlife Development in the US (MIDUS) I and II (N ¼ 2101). Logistic regression was used to examine the relationship between continuously measured personality factors and any lifetime cigarette use, smoking progression, and smoking persistence at baseline (1995 e1996) and at follow-up (2004e2006). The results revealed that higher levels of openness to experience and neuroticism were each significantly associated with increased risk of any lifetime cigarette use. Neuroticism also was associated with increased risk of progression from ever smoking to daily smoking and persistent daily smoking over a ten-year period. In contrast, conscientiousness was associated with decreased risk of lifetime cigarette use, progression to daily smoking, and smoking persistence. Most, but not all, associations between smoking and personality persisted after adjusting for demographic characteristics, depression, anxiety disorders, and substance use problems. The findings suggest that openness to experience and neuroticism may be involved in any lifetime cigarette use and smoking progression, and that conscientiousness appears to protect against smoking progression and persistence. These data add to a growing literature suggesting that certain personality factorsdmost consistently neuroticismdare important to assess and perhaps target during intervention programs for smoking behavior.
EFFECT OF TEMPERATURE ON STABILITY OF ORANGE AROMA SOLUTION

SUMMARY Stability of orange aroma solutions from Valencia oranges grown in Arizona, California and Florida was studied at storage temperatures of 0, 10, 20, 34 and 70°F. Samples stored in 10-ml Pyrex glass screw-capped vials lost aroma strength and fresh orange character rapidly at 70 and 34°F. Aroma strength as measured by threshold determinations remained fairly constant at 0 and 20°F for up to 1 year. Significant changes in aroma character, however, were observed within 6 months and 1 year at 20 and 10°F, respectively. At 0°F, fresh orange aroma was maintained without significant change for up to 88 weeks. The most significant change indicated by GLC headspace analysis was almost complete loss of limonene in samples held at 70°F for 9 weeks or more. Aroma strength and character during storage at 70°F were preserved by sealing in glass tubes and storing in the dark.
Dę'ni:s nisa'sgao'dę?: Haudenosaunee Clans and the Reconstruction of Traditional Haudenosaunee Identity, Citizenship, and Nationhood

Among the Haudenosaunee the clan system is an ancient tradition of matrilineal descent that has maintained the social, political, economic, and spiritual cohesion of the people for centuries. Following the American Revolution and the relocation of large numbers of Haudenosaunee people from our traditional homelands in what is now New York State, this system became disrupted. Much of the damage was enacted through nineteenthcentury federal policies supporting the dispossession of our territories, which imposed definitions of citizenship and leadership on the nations or tribes. As a result, many Haudenosaunee gradually lost a sense of who they are as a distinct people with relationships and responsibilities to each other that transcend the Canadian/American border, as well as their currently bounded reserve/reservation communities. Although it is important to enumerate these consequences, it is also critical to recognize that disruptive colonial frameworks continue to reside in a context in which the Haudenosaunee paradigms that anchor cultural, political, and land-based relationships have never been successfully effaced. Illuminating this continuity through the lens of a community-based clan research and education initiative at Six Nations of Grand River in Ontario, this article presents a fuller expression of the meaning of clans evidenced by attention to Haudenosaunee languages and translation and the cultural narratives comprising historic Haudenosaunee traditionalism. The following examination of grassroots and scholarly interventions, alongside contexts of displacement and relevance, corresponds with
The Liberal Illusion of Uniqueness

In two studies, we demonstrated that liberals underestimate their similarity to other liberals (i.e., display truly false uniqueness), whereas moderates and conservatives overestimate their similarity to other moderates and conservatives (i.e., display truly false consensus; Studies 1 and 2). We further demonstrated that a fundamental difference between liberals and conservatives in the motivation to feel unique explains this ideological distinction in the accuracy of estimating similarity (Study 2). Implications of the accuracy of consensus estimates for mobilizing liberal and conservative political movements are discussed.
Steiner's problem in graphs and its implications

A graph theoretic version of Steiner's problem in plane geometry is described. An approach for solving this problem, related to Melzak's solution to Steiner's problem, is presented. The problems of finding “shortest route” and “minimal spanning tree” in graphs become special cases of the Steiner's problem in graphs. It is shown that a solution to this problem also provides us with a solution to the problems of finding a minimum externally stable set and a maximum internally stable set in a graph.
Simulation of short-term post-fire vegetation recovery by integration of LANDFIRE data products, DNBR data and LANDIS modeling

This study developed an approach to simulate short-term post-fire vegetation recovery by integration of LANDFIRE data products, the differenced normalized burn ratio (DNBR) data, and LANDISv4.0a modeling. Combination of DNBR and LANDFIRE data products provided information on burn severity, pre-fire existing vegetation types, vegetation composition and structure, and the biophysical gradients that affect the distribution of ecosystem components. Such critical information established the initial states for LANDIS parameterization and simulation modeling. We tested the simulation at the Sanford Fire site, which is within the Dixie National Forest in Utah state and has 31,579 hectares of burned forested land by a 2002 wildfire. The simulation was at 30-meter cell size, at one-year time interval, and at 10-year duration. The results indicated that integration of LANDFIRE data products, DNBR data, and LANDISv4.0a modeling provided the necessary data sets and modeling mechanism for updating vegetation maps affec...
Stability and convergence for systems with switching equilibria

We study systems in which the equilibrium point varies discontinuously according to a well defined state or time-dependent switching law. We refer to those systems as systems with switching equilibria. To motivate our study, we describe a class of problems in engineering and biology that can be formulated using such systems. We study stability and convergence properties of those systems under various switching rules. In particular we prove convergence under arbitrary switching, time-dependent and state-dependent switching laws. In the time-dependent switching case we highlight connections between the relaxation theorem corresponding to differential inclusions, Pulse-Width-Modulation (PWM) and averaging theory.
Methodology for assessing the prevalence of angina in primary care using practice based information in northern England.

OBJECTIVES: The study aimed to consider the value of nitrate prescriptions issued by general practices as an indicator of coronary heart disease and to compare this with the use of coronary heart disease registers. DESIGN: The study was a cross sectional survey. A self completed questionnaire was used by general practices to indicate an age and gender breakdown of the total practice population, the number of patients taking nitrates, and details of patients recorded on a coronary heart disease register. SUBJECTS: All 48 general practices registered with Wakefield Family Health Services Authority were sent a questionnaire. MAIN RESULTS: The prevalence of angina in the sample population of 164796 was 3.1%. The prevalence of angina as assessed by coronary heart disease registers was significantly higher at 4.3%. CONCLUSIONS: Using questionnaires to assess how many patients are taking nitrates and therefore have angina may provide a quick, "snapshot" view of the prevalence of angina but the methodology is not a robust epidemiological tool. It is likely to provide errors in estimates of true prevalence and risks some under estimation when compared with coronary heart disease registers.
Six1 promotes a placodal fate within the lateral neurogenic ectoderm by functioning as both a transcriptional activator and repressor.

Cranial placodes, which give rise to sensory organs in the vertebrate head, are important embryonic structures whose development has not been well studied because of their transient nature and paucity of molecular markers. We have used markers of pre-placodal ectoderm (PPE) ( six1, eya1 ) to determine that gradients of both neural inducers and anteroposterior signals are necessary to induce and appropriately position the PPE. Overexpression of six1 expands the PPE at the expense of neural crest and epidermis, whereas knock-down of Six1 results in reduction of the PPE domain and expansion of the neural plate, neural crest and epidermis. Using expression of activator and repressor constructs of six1 or co-expression of wild-type six1 with activating or repressing co-factors ( eya1 and groucho , respectively), we demonstrate that Six1 inhibits neural crest and epidermal genes via transcriptional repression and enhances PPE genes via transcriptional activation. Ectopic expression of neural plate, neural crest and epidermal genes in the PPE demonstrates that these factors mutually influence each other to establish the appropriate boundaries between these ectodermal domains.
A high resolution wave propagation scheme for ideal Two-Fluid plasma equations

Algorithms for the solution of the five-moment ideal Two-Fluid equations are presented. The ideal Two-Fluid model is more general than the often used magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) model. The model takes into account electron inertia effects, charge separation and the full electromagnetic field equations and allows for separate electron and ion motion. The algorithm presented is the high resolution wave propagation method. The wave propagation method is based on solutions to the Riemann problem at cell interfaces. Operator splitting is used to incorporate the Lorentz and electromagnetic source terms. To preserve the divergence constraints on the electric and magnetic fields two different approaches are used. In the first approach Maxwell equations are rewritten in their mixed-potential form. In the second approach the so-called perfectly hyperbolic form of Maxwell equations are used which explicitly incorporate the divergence equations into the time stepping scheme. The algorithm is applied to a one-dimensional Riemann problem, ion-acoustic soliton propagation and magnetic reconnection. In each case Two-Fluid physics described by the ideal Two-Fluid model is highlighted.
Ultrasonically guidedinterstitial brachytherapy for prostate cancer: Care of the patient in ambulatory surgery

The diagnosis of prostate cancer at any age can strike fear in a man and his family. One treatment for early stage prostate cancer that is gaining renewed popularity is ultrasonically guided permanent iodine-125 or palladium-103 interstitial brachytherapy or seed implantation. This procedure permits concentrated, accurate radiation to the prostate while reducing the probability of radiation injury to adjacent tissue. A well-tolerated outpatient procedure, it is associated with negligible complications, and is the most overall cost-effective treatment option for early stage prostate cancer today. Nurses who are knowledgeable about the treatment plan and procedure play a pivotal role in teaching, preparing, and caring for patients during all phases of the treatment process. Their care and reassurance help reduce anxiety for patients and families during a difficult time in their lives.
Mixed-mode fracture in an R-curve material

Abstract Mixed-mode fracture of a mica glass ceramic, an R-curve material, was analyzed. Vickers indentation cracks of varying sizes were introduced on the tensile surface of glass ceramic bars fractured in three point flexure. Mixed-mode fracture from indentation cracks was governed by a rising crack growth resistance behavior. Minimum Strain Energy Density theory based on the singular stress terms was effective in describing mixed-mode fracture in the glass ceramic and in previously studied non R-curve ceramics in flexure. This agreement implies that the effect of non singular stress terms in mixed-mode fracture from relatively small surface cracks in flexure is negligible.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation of the Structure and Hydroxylation of Silica Glass Surfaces

The surface structure of silica glasses has been simulated using molecular dynamics. The surface hydroxyl concentration was estimated to be 4.5/nm 2 , based on surface defect statistics. Hydroxyl-silica potentials were developed and used to study the hydroxylation of silica surface. It is found that the energy of chemisorption of water declines in the sequence: three coordinated silicon (Si 3 ) and non-bridging oxygen (NBO) on separate sites, Si 3 and NBO on combined sites, two- and three-membered rings. Partial hydroxylation of the most reactive sites, which leads to an OH coverage of 2.5/nm 2 , was studied. Structural relaxation after hydroxylation was observed.
Combined endoscopic mucosal resection and photodynamic therapy versus esophagectomy for management of early adenocarcinoma in Barrett's esophagus.

Abstract Background & Aims: Although esophagectomy is the standard of care for treating early adenocarcinoma in Barrett's esophagus, the procedure is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. For these patients, the multimodal approach of endoscopic mucosal resection and photodynamic therapy (EMR/PDT) may be a viable, less invasive option. Methods: A retrospective review (1996–2001) of all patients undergoing either combined EMR/PDT group or esophagectomy (SURG) for early-stage Barrett's adenocarcinoma was performed. Data were collected on patient demographics, tumor staging, procedure-related morbidity and mortality, persistence or recurrence of cancer, and cancer-related deaths after therapy. Differences in outcomes between the 2 groups were assessed. Results: Twenty-four patients were identified in the EMR/PDT group and 64 in the SURG group. The SURG group was found to have a significantly higher procedure-related complication rate compared with the EMR/PDT group (31 vs. 4; P Conclusions: The combination of EMR/PDT seems to be a viable and less morbid alternative to standard esophagectomy in patients presenting with early Barrett's esophageal adenocarcinoma. A prospective randomized, controlled trial of EMR/PDT compared with esophagectomy for managing early adenocarcinoma in Barrett's esophagus may be warranted.
The Incorporation of Drugs into Hair: Relationship of Hair Color and Melanin Concentration to Phencyclidine Incorporation

Rodents with different hair pigmentation patterns were studied to evaluate the role of melanin in the incorporation of phencyclidine (PCP) into hair. There are two types of melanin in hair and other
Biomaterials-based strategies for salivary gland tissue regeneration

The salivary gland is a complex, secretory tissue that produces saliva and maintains oral homeostasis. Radiation induced salivary gland atrophy, manifested as "dry mouth" or xerostomia, poses a significant clinical challenge. Tissue engineering recently has emerged as an alternative, long-term treatment strategy for xerostomia. In this review, we summarize recent efforts towards the development of functional and implantable salivary glands utilizing designed polymeric substrates or synthetic matrices/scaffolds. Although the in vitro engineering of a complex implantable salivary gland is technically challenging, opportunities exist for multidisciplinary teams to assemble implantable and secretory tissue modules by combining stem/progenitor cells found in the adult glands with biomimetic and cell-instructive materials.
Ultimate resistance of laterally loaded piles in cohesionless soils

A key element in the design of laterally loaded piles is the determination of the ultimate resistance that can be exerted by the soil against the pile. Several methods have been published for predicting the ultimate resistance of laterally loaded piles in cohesionless soils. However, these methods often produce significantly different ultimate resistance values. This makes it difficult for practical designers to effectively select the appropriate method when designing laterally loaded piles in cohesionless soils. By analyzing the lateral soil resistance distribution along the width of the pile and based on the test results of model rigid piles in cohesionless soils collected from the published literature, an expression is developed for the ultimate resistance (including frontal soil resistance and side shear resistance) of laterally loaded piles in cohesionless soils. Application of the developed expression to predict the lateral load capacity of laboratory and field rigid test piles in cohesionless soils gives satisfactory results. Introduction Piles have been used extensively for supporting axial and lateral loads for a variety of structures including heavy buildings, transmission lines, power stations, and highway structures. Lateral loads govern the design of piles in many cases. A key element in the design of laterally loaded piles is the determination of the ultimate resistance that can be exerted by the soil against the pile. Several methods have been published for predicting the ultimate resistance of laterally loaded piles in cohesionless soils (Brinch Hansen 1961; Broms 1964; Reese et al. 1974; Poulos and Davis 1980; Fleming et al. 1992). However, these methods often produce significantly different ultimate resistance values. This makes it difficult for practical designers to effectively select the appropriate method when designing laterally loaded piles in cohesionless soils. Because the problem of finding the ultimate resistance for a laterally loaded pile is three dimensional and nonlinear, finding a rigorous analytical solution is highly unlikely and finding a rigorous numerical solution is expensive. So the existing solutions for the ultimate resistance are either of a semiempirical nature or employ approximate analysis which often involves considerable simplifications (Jamiolkowski and Garassino 1977). This may be the reason why different methods often produce significantly different ultimate resistance values. * Consultant, Arthur D. Little, Inc., Acorn Park, Cambridge, MA 02140; PH 617-498-6348; zhang.lianyang@adlittle.com ** Director and VP, Arthur D. Little, Inc., Acorn Park, Cambridge, MA 02140; PH 617-498-5850; silvatulla@adlittle.com *** Principal, Arthur D. Little, Inc., Acorn Park, Cambridge, MA 02140; PH 617-498-5449; grismala.r@adlittle.com
Morphology of the Glans Penis in Four Genera of Molossid Bats (Chiroptera: Molossidae)

The morphology of the glans penis is described for Mormopterus jugularis, Molossops planirostris, M. temminckii, Nyctinomops laticaudatus, N. macrotis, Tadarida aegyptiaca , and T. brasiliensis . The glans penis is stout, elongate, and pendulous in all seven species. The external surface of the glans is covered with epithelial spines in all species except T. brasiliensis , where spines are replaced by rows of epithelial papillae. Epithelial spines range in size from 100 µm in M. jugularis . The urinary meatus is subterminal and covered by a prominent urethral cap in all species examined except the two species of Molossops . A small os penis is present at the distal terminus of the corpora cavernosa in M. jugularis, N. laticaudatus , and T. brasiliensis . The corpora cavernosa is restricted to the proximal one-half of the glans and no os penis was found in either species of Molossops . Although molossids exhibit only modest intraspecific variation in penile morphology, considerable intergeneric variation is present making these morphological characters potentially useful for testing phylogenetic hypotheses.
A cost assessment study for a large-scale water gas shift catalytic membrane reactor module in the presence of uncertainty

Abstract A comprehensive economic performance evaluation framework for an actual large-scale water-gas-shift Pd-based catalytic membrane reactor (CMR) module for hydrogen production is presented. Since a detailed assessment of the technical performance of the CMR built at WPI has been reported previously (Catalano et al., 2013), the present research study focuses on an assessment of the module’s economic performance characteristics, and thus, can be viewed as complementary. The proposed evaluation framework encompasses comprehensive baseline models for both Fixed Capital Investment (FCI) and Total Capital Investment (TCI) while various sources of uncertainty are identified whose effect on CMR’s economic performance is explicitly taken into account using Monte Carlo techniques. As a result, insightful distribution profiles of FCI and TCI are derived rather than single-point value estimates and more realistic distributions of CMR economic performance outcomes are generated and statistically characterized. The latter could potentially inform development efforts of this new technology option for hydrogen production purposes.
Clobetasol promotes remyelination in a mouse model of neuromyelitis optica

Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is an inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system that can produce marked neurological deficit. Current NMO therapies include immunosuppressants, plasma exchange and B-cell depletion. Here, we evaluated 14 potential remyelinating drugs emerging from prior small molecule screens done to identify drugs for repurposing in multiple sclerosis and other demyelinating neurological diseases. Compounds were initially evaluated in oligodendrocyte precursor cell (OPC) and cerebellar slice cultures, and then in a mouse model of NMO produced by intracerebral injection of anti-AQP4 autoantibody (AQP4-IgG) and human complement characterized by demyelination with minimal axonal damage. The FDA-approved drug clobetasol promoted differentiation in OPC cultures and remyelination in cerebellar slice cultures and in mice. Intraperitoneal administration of 2 mg/kg/day clobetasol reduced myelin loss by ~60 %, even when clobetasol was administered after demyelination occurred. Clobetasol increased the number of mature oligodendrocytes within lesions without significantly altering initial astrocyte damage or inflammation. These results provide proof-of-concept for the potential utility of a remyelinating approach in the treatment of NMO.
Attrition Modeling Framework Study in SoS Combat Simulation

Realization of the system of systems(SoS) combat simulation in the war lab is becoming imperative.According to the attrition modeling problems such as studying new attrition mechanism,computing soft attrition,subtle attrition calculation and trustworthy attrition evaluation,the framework for multi-level attrition assessment modeling was proposed to guide the process,content and method for constructing a series of attrition models of strategy,campaign,tactic and engineer;Multi-level attrition assessment models and measures were explored.In addition,a verification method for adjacent models was given to ensure modeling credible multi-level attrition models.
Current Situation Analysis on Community Health Service Vocational Training in Shanghai Huangpu District

OBJECTIVE To know the current situation and demands of vocational training in Huangpu District Community Health Service Group.To provide evidence for the formulation of related training strategies and methods.METHOD Through questionnaires.RESULTS Most objects among the 123 group members being investigated considered training as helpful to daily work,and unable to get leave from work was the factor which influenced training.The training of new knowledge learning was in the top demand.51.22% objects chose self-learning through delivering written materials as way of training.63.40% objects considered 1～2 times of training per year as reasonable.CONCLUSION Targeted training should be organized for staff in different positions.Emphasis should be put on practicality and various forms in the way of training.CDC should improve its own capability in training and guidance and establish an evaluation mechanism.
Are We Naïve to Think We Can Save Rare Plants from Extinction

In places such as the Hawaiian Islands, where over half the native flora may be at risk of extinction in coming decades, the criticism is sometimes raised that the situation is so hopeless that the talents, energy and money of botanical gardens and other plant conservation organizations is largely wasted in trying to save these plants. Although stories of failure abound, it is important to recognize that considerable progress is being made. Organizations such as the National Tropical Botanical Garden (NTBG) have led the way in this eleventh-hour effort, not by naively pursuing failed strategies, nor by pulling back and only pursuing very limited goals, but by approaching the huge challenges with an energetic pioneering spirit. By taking an innovative comprehensive approach, dealing with the crisis at the level of ecosystems and plant communities rather than merely individual species, NTBG and other organizations are making progress on a broad front that integrates a range of scales and techniques and adapts to the shifting circumstances through careful monitoring and a spirit of optimism that is coupled with scientific scepticism.
Contactless, non-intrusive core temperature measurement of a solid body in steady-state

Abstract Accurate measurement of temperature is critical for understanding thermal behavior and monitoring safety and performance of engineering systems involving heating and cooling. While a number of methods are available for measurement of temperature on the outside surface of solid bodies, there is a lack of contactless, non-invasive methods for determining temperature inside solid bodies. Development of such methods is likely to impact a wide range of engineering systems. This paper describes and validates a method for measurement of internal core temperature of a solid body in steady-state based on measurement of the temperature distribution on its outside surface based on a theoretical thermal conduction model. This method is validated by determining the steady-state core temperature of a thermal test cell using infrared temperature measurement on the surface, and comparing with measurements from an embedded thermocouple. The two measurements are found to agree well with each other in a variety of heat generation and cooling conditions. While this validation is presented for a cylindrical body, the method lends itself easily to bodies of other shapes. This work contributes towards fundamental thermal metrology, with possible applications in a wide variety of engineering systems.
Detecting Fraud in the Organization: An Internal Audit Perspective

Fraud constitutes a significant problem for many organizations. Its effects range from monetary costs to reputational loss. With the added impetus of recent regulations, the implementation of an effective anti-fraud program is a priority for most companies. To establish the basis for the effectiveness of controls and procedures designed in the anti-fraud program, a comprehensive fraud risk assessment should be performed and the program should be periodically reassessed. The Institute of Internal Auditors’ (IIA) Practice Guide, IPPF – Internal Auditing and Fraud states that the organization’s internal audit activity is often called upon to play a pivotal role in the development and evaluation of anti-fraud programs. This study examined the perceptions of internal auditors based on a survey instrument that collected data on the top fraud risks that internal auditors believed threaten their organizations and the procedures they perceived to be most effective in detecting those frauds. In response to The IIAs’ Global Technology Audit Guide, Fraud Prevention and the Detection in an Automated World, the study also examined internal auditors’ use of various business intelligence tools. The survey participants also shared the skills that they considered to be most important for detecting fraud. These skills were mapped to The IIA’s Internal Auditor Competency Framework.
Religious Philosophy: Hegel's Occasional Perplexity in the Face of the Distinction Between Philosophy and Religion

Hegel is widely recognized as the preeminent philosopher of the history of philosophy. His Lectures on the History of Philosophy are designed in large measure to answer questions about philosophy's apparent futility by reformulating the presentation of the seemingly pointless succession of forms of philosophy so as to show its organic development (Hegel, 1994, 24). To reveal the proper shape of the history of philosophy, what is extraneous to it had to be omitted. Much that had previously been regarded as philosophy was now to be treated under the heading of religion. The distinction between philosophy and religion, the decision as to what was philosophy and what was religion, took on an importance it had previously lacked. Although subsequent historians of philosophy did not always share Hegel's concern to show the organic development of the history of philosophy, his decisions about what was to be included and what excluded from philosophy proved particularly important in respect of the question of the place subsequently given to Indian philosophy. For this reason Hegel deservedly holds a central place in current discussions about the philosophical canon.
The Multiphoton Coherent Hanle Effect

After a lull of several years, a good deal of interest has again been focussed on optical three-wave mixing in atomic vapors. Six years ago Finn and Ward studied dc-electric-field induced optical second-harmonic generation (SHG) in several inert gases[1]. This type of three-wave mixing depends on the mixing of atomic states of opposite parity in a dc electric field. In the second type of atomic three-wave mixing, which has only been reported during the past year, no dc electric field is introduced: instead, the generation occurs as a result of a higher-order (either E2 or M1) multipole moment of an atomic two-photon excitation.
Anion-Controlled Positional Switching of a Phenyl Group about the Dinuclear Core of a AuSb Complex

As part of our continuing interest in redox-active, anion-responsive main-group transition-metal platforms, we have investigated the effect of chloride by fluoride anion substitution on the core structure of a dinuclear AuSb platform. Starting from [(o-(iPr2P)C6H4)2Cl2SbPh]AuCl (2) in which the antimony-bound phenyl group is positioned trans to the gold atom, we found that the introduction of fluoride anions, as in [(o-(iPr2P)C6H4)2F2SbPh]AuCl (3) and [(o-(iPr2P)C6H4)2ClFSbPh]AuCl (4), produces structures in which the phenyl group switches to a perpendicular direction with respect to the gold atom. Replacement of the gold-bound chloride anion in 3 by a fluoride anion can be achieved by successive treatment with TlPF6 and [nBu4N][Ph3SiF2]. These reactions, which proceed via the intermediate zwitterionc gold antimonate complex [o-(iPr2P)C6H4)2F3SbPh]Au (6), trigger migration of the phenyl group to gold and afford [(o-(iPr2P)C6H4)2F3Sb]AuPh (7). Because the phenyl group in 7 is orthogonal to that in 3 and op...
A computational framework for modeling targets as complex adaptive systems

Modeling large military targets is a challenge as they can be complex systems encompassing myriad combinations of human, technological, and social elements that interact, leading to complex behaviors. Moreover, such targets have multiple components and structures, extending across multiple spatial and temporal scales, and are in a state of change, either in response to events in the environment or changes within the system. Complex adaptive system (CAS) theory can help in capturing the dynamism, interactions, and more importantly various emergent behaviors, displayed by the targets. However, a key stumbling block is incorporating information from various intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) sources, while dealing with the inherent uncertainty, incompleteness and time criticality of real world information. To overcome these challenges, we present a probabilistic reasoning network based framework called complex adaptive Bayesian Knowledge Base (caBKB). caBKB is a rigorous, overarching and axiomatic framework that models two key processes, namely information aggregation and information composition. While information aggregation deals with the union, merger and concatenation of information and takes into account issues such as source reliability and information inconsistencies, information composition focuses on combining information components where such components may have well defined operations. Since caBKBs can explicitly model the relationships between information pieces at various scales, it provides unique capabilities such as the ability to de-aggregate and de-compose information for detailed analysis. Using a scenario from the Network Centric Operations (NCO) domain, we will describe how our framework can be used for modeling targets with a focus on methodologies for quantifying NCO performance metrics.
Dimensions of credibility in models and simulations

Based on the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA's) work in developing a standard for models and simulations (M&S), the subject of credibility in M&S became a distinct focus. This is an indirect result from the Space Shuttle Columbia Accident Investigation Board (CAIB), which eventually resulted in an action, among others, to improve the rigor in NASA's M&S practices. The focus of this action came to mean a standardized method for assessing and reporting results from any type of M&S. As is typical in the standards development process, this necessarily developed into defining a common terminology base and common documentation requirements (especially for M&S used in critical decision making), along with a method for assessing the credibility of M&S results. What surfaced in the development of the NASA Standard was the various dimensions of credibility to consider when accepting the results from any model or simulation analysis. The eight generally applicable factors of credibility chosen in the NASA Standard proved only one aspect in the dimensionality of M&S credibility. At the next level of detail, the full comprehension of some of the factors requires an understanding along a couple of dimensions as well. Included in this discussion are the prerequisites for the appropriate use of a given M&S, the choice of factors in credibility assessment with their inherent dimensionality, and minimum requirements for fully reporting M&S results.
Wooded field margins increase potential for cultural and biological control of soybean pests

Abstract Crop field margins provide benefits to growers by inhibiting pest dispersal through cultural control and provisioning resources for predators through conservation biological control. The purpose of this study was to elucidate potential soybean insect pest control measures by determining the relationships between pests and spiders, common generalist predators in agroecosystems, and field margin type and distance from the field (0–3 and 3–6 m). Both margin type and distance were significantly correlated with in-field pest abundance (both pooled and taxa-specific). Generally, pest abundance was negatively correlated with the presence of wooded field margins at both distances and could be due to cultural control as hedgerows provide similar ecosystem services in other cropping systems. Spider abundance and spider-pest spatial associations (an indication of potential predation events) within fields were positively correlated with wooded margins from 3 to 6 m, indicating that conservation biological control in addition to cultural control might be contributing to diminished pest abundance in fields with these margins. The lack of wooded margin influence from 0 to 3 m might indicate a need for a minimum wooded area before margins can become a source for within-field spider populations. Furthermore, the number of spider-pest spatial associations was greatest early in the season when pest abundance was lowest and pests were more likely to be spatially aggregated. These data indicate that growers might be able to maintain their field margins, particularly wooded areas, to maximize both potential cultural control and conservation biological control resources, particularly early in the growing season.