A Domain-Independent Algorithm for Plan Adaptation

The paradigms of transformational planning, case-based planning, and plan debugging all involve a process known as plan adaptation - modifying or repairing an old plan so it solves a new problem. In this paper we provide a domain-independent algorithm for plan adaptation, demonstrate that it is sound, complete, and systematic, and compare it to other adaptation algorithms in the literature. Our approach is based on a view of planning as searching a graph of partial plans. Generative planning starts at the graph's root and moves from node to node using plan-refinement operators. In planning by adaptation, a library plan - an arbitrary node in the plan graph - is the starting point for the search, and the plan-adaptation algorithm can apply both the same refinement operators available to a generative planner and can also retract constraints and steps from the plan. Our algorithm's completeness ensures that the adaptation algorithm will eventually search the entire graph and its systematicity ensures that it will do so without redundantly searching any parts of the graph.Comment: See http://www.jair.org/ for any accompanying file

Feedback Control and Characterization of a Microcantilever Using Optical Radiation Pressure

We describe a method for feedback-regulation of a microcantilever's response using optical radiation pressure. One laser measures the position of the cantilever and another laser applies a force that is a phase-shifted function of that position. The force is due solely to the momentum of the photons in the laser. The feedback changes the microcantilever's effective quality factor Qeff and effective temperature Teff. Reduction of both Qeff and Teff by more than a factor of 15 is demonstrated. Additionally, we suggest a method for determination of a microcantilever's spring constant using the known force exerted on it by radiation pressure.Comment: 10 pages, 3 figures. Updated acknowledgements and used smaller file format for Figure

Self-assembled Zeeman slower based on spherical permanent magnets

We present a novel type of longitudinal Zeeman slower. The magnetic field profile is generated by a 3D array of permanent spherical magnets, which are self-assembled into a stable structure. The simplicity and stability of the design make it quick to assemble and inexpensive. In addition, as with other permanent magnet slowers, no electrical current or water cooling is required. We describe the theory, assembly, and testing of this new design

Connecting Literacy and Popular Culture

This study examined the benefits of using popular culture in the classroom to teach reading and writing strategies. The research was conducted in a one-to-one meeting with a fourth grade student. During the study, the participant read a chapter book Dramarama, based on Zoey 101, a popular television show for teenagers. Data was collected and analyzed through means of observation, student work samples, and personal interviews. The findings suggest that it is advantageous to incorporate popular culture into literacy instruction within the classroom. Knowledge of popular culture is not hindering on education, but is a large part of what students directly identify with. By embracing this idea, students of all developmental levels can flourish and become engaged in literacy