Recent operating experiences with steam generators in Japanese NPPs

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yashima, Seiji

1997-02-01

In 1994, the Genkai-3 of Kyushu Electric Power Co., Inc. and the Ikata-3 of Shikoku Electric Power Co., Inc. started commercial operation, and now 22 PWR plants are being operated in Japan. Since the first PWR plant now 22 PWR plants are being operated in was started to operate, Japanese PWR plants have had an operating experience of approx. 280 reactor-years. During that period, many tube degradations have been experienced in steam generators (SGs). And, in 1991, the steam generator tube rupture (SGTR) occurred in the Mihama-2 of Kansai Electric Power Co., Inc. However, the occurrence of tube degradation ofmore » SGs has been decreased by the instructions of the MITI as regulatory authorities, efforts of Electric Utilities, and technical support from the SG manufacturers. Here the author describes the recent SGs in Japan about the following points. (1) Recent Operating Experiences (2) Lessons learned from Mihama-2 SGTR (3) SG replacement (4) Safety Regulations on SG (5) Research and development on SG.« less

Experiment module concepts study. Volume 2: Experiments and mission operations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Macdonald, J. M.

1970-01-01

The baseline experiment program is concerned with future space experiments and cover the scientific disciplines of astronomy, space physics, space biology, biomedicine and biotechnology, earth applications, materials science, and advanced technology. The experiments within each discipline are grouped into functional program elements according to experiments that support a particular area of research or investigation and experiments that impose similar or related demand on space station support systems. The experiment requirements on module subsystems, experiment operating modes and time profiles, and the role of the astronaut are discussed. Launch and rendezvous with the space station, disposal, and on-orbit operations are delineated. The operational interfaces between module and other system elements are presented and include space station and logistic system interfaces. Preliminary launch and on-orbit environmental criteria and requirements are discussed, and experiment equipment weights by functional program elements are tabulated.

The Large Area Crop Inventory Experiment /LACIE/ - An assessment after one year of operation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Macdonald, R. B.; Hall, F. G.; Erb, R. B.

1975-01-01

A Large Area Crop Inventory Experiment (LACIE) has been undertaken jointly by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) of the Department of Commerce and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to prove out an economically important application of remote sensing from space. The first phase of the Experiment, which focused upon determinations of wheat area in the U.S. Great Plains and upon the development and testing of yield models, is now nearing completion. The system implemented to handle and analyze the Landsat and meteorological data has generally worked well and met operational goals. A very preliminary assessment of results to date indicates that the accuracy goals of the experiment can be met.

14 CFR 121.434 - Operating experience, operating cycles, and consolidation of knowledge and skills.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 3 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Operating experience, operating cycles, and... Qualifications § 121.434 Operating experience, operating cycles, and consolidation of knowledge and skills. (a... position, the operating experience, operating cycles, and the line operating flight time for consolidation...

The Software Engineering Laboratory: An operational software experience factory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Basili, Victor R.; Caldiera, Gianluigi; Mcgarry, Frank; Pajerski, Rose; Page, Gerald; Waligora, Sharon

1992-01-01

For 15 years, the Software Engineering Laboratory (SEL) has been carrying out studies and experiments for the purpose of understanding, assessing, and improving software and software processes within a production software development environment at NASA/GSFC. The SEL comprises three major organizations: (1) NASA/GSFC, Flight Dynamics Division; (2) University of Maryland, Department of Computer Science; and (3) Computer Sciences Corporation, Flight Dynamics Technology Group. These organizations have jointly carried out several hundred software studies, producing hundreds of reports, papers, and documents, all of which describe some aspect of the software engineering technology that was analyzed in the flight dynamics environment at NASA. The studies range from small, controlled experiments (such as analyzing the effectiveness of code reading versus that of functional testing) to large, multiple project studies (such as assessing the impacts of Ada on a production environment). The organization's driving goal is to improve the software process continually, so that sustained improvement may be observed in the resulting products. This paper discusses the SEL as a functioning example of an operational software experience factory and summarizes the characteristics of and major lessons learned from 15 years of SEL operations.

European dry cooling tower operating experience

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

DeSteese, J.G.; Simhan, K.

1976-03-01

Interviews were held with representatives of major plants and equipment manufacturers to obtain current information on operating experience with dry cooling towers in Europe. The report documents the objectives, background, and organizational details of the study, and presents an itemized account of contacts made to obtain information. Plant selection was based on a merit index involving thermal capacity and length of service. A questionnaire was used to organize operational data, when available, into nine major categories of experience. Information was also solicited concerning the use of codes and standards to ensure the achievement of cooling tower performance. Several plant operatorsmore » provided finned-tube samples for metallographic analysis. Additionally, information on both operating experience and developing technology was supplied by European technical societies and research establishments. Information obtained from these contacts provides an updated and representative sample of European experience with dry cooling towers, which supplements some of the detailed reviews already available in the literature. In addition, the study presents categorized operating experience with installations which have not been reviewed so extensively, but nevertheless, have significant operational histories when ranked by the merit index. The contacts and interviews reported in the survey occurred between late March and October 1975. The study was motivated by the expressed interest of U.S. utility industry representatives who expect European experience to provide a basis of confidence that dry cooling is a reliable technology, applicable when necessary, to U.S. operating requirements.« less

15-Year-Experience of a Knee Arthroscopist

PubMed Central

Tatari, Mehmet Hasan; Bektaş, Yunus Emre; Demirkıran, Demirhan; Ellidokuz, Hülya

2014-01-01

Objectives: Arthroscopic knee surgery is a an experience-demanding procedure throughout diagnostic and reconstructive parts. Altough the literature says that there must be no need for diagnostic arthroscopy today, most arthroscopic surgeons have gained experience and developed themselves by the help of diagnostic arthroscopy and some basic procedures like debridement and lavage. The purpose of this study was to observe what happenned in the 15-year-experience of an orthopaedic surgeon who deals with knee arthroscopy. The hypothesis was that the mean age of the patients, who have undergone arthroscopic procedures, would decrease, and the percentage of the diagnostic and debridement applications would diminish and reconstructive procedures would increase. Methods: For this purpose, 959 patients who have undergone knee arthroscopy in 15 years, were evaluated retrospectively. The gender, age, operation year and the procedure applied for the patients were enrolled on an Excel file. Chi-Square test was used for statistical evaluation. The patients were divided into three groups according to the year they were operated. Period 1 included the patients who were operated between the years 1999-2003, Period 2 between 2004-2008 and Period 3 between 2009-2013. According to their ages, the patients were evaluated in three groups; Group 1 included the patients ≤ 25 years old while Group 2 between 26-40 and Group 3 ≥ 41. Arthroscopic procedures were evaluated in three groups: Group X: meniscectomy, chondral debridement, lavage, synoviectomy, loose body removal. Group Y: ACL and PCL reconstruction, meniscal repair. Group Z: Microfracture, lateral release, meniscal normalization, second look arthroscopy, diagnostic arthroscopy before osteotomy. Results: Among all patients, 60 % was male and Group 3 (45.4 %) was the larger group in population. The procedures in Group X were used in most of the operations ( 59.2 %). The population of the patients in the periods increased gradually

Early tracking would improve the operative experience of general surgery residents.

PubMed

Stain, Steven C; Biester, Thomas W; Hanks, John B; Ashley, Stanley W; Valentine, R James; Bass, Barbara L; Buyske, Jo

2010-09-01

High surgical complexity and individual career goals has led most general surgery (GS) residents to pursue fellowship training, resulting in a shortage of surgeons who practice broad-based general surgery. We hypothesize that early tracking of residents would improve operative experience of residents planning to be general surgeons, and could foster greater interest and confidence in this career path. Surgical Operative Log data from GS and fellowship bound residents (FB) applying for the 2008 American Board of Surgery Qualifying Examination (QE) were used to construct a hypothetical training model with 6 months of early specialization (ESP) for FB residents in 4 specialties (cardiac, vascular, colorectal, pediatric); and presumed these cases would be available to GS residents within the same program. A total of 142 training programs had both FB residents (n = 237) and GS residents (n = 402), and represented 70% of all 2008 QE applicants. The mean numbers of operations by FB and GS residents were 1131 and 1091, respectively. There were a mean of 252 cases by FB residents in the chief year, theoretically making 126 cases available for each GS resident. In 9 defined categories, the hypothetical model would result in an increase in the 5-year operative experience of GS residents (mastectomy 6.5%; colectomy 22.8%; gastrectomy 23.4%; antireflux procedures 23.4%; pancreatic resection 37.4%; liver resection 29.3%; endocrine procedures 19.6%; trauma operations 13.3%; GI endoscopy 6.5%). The ESP model improves operative experience of GS residents, particularly for complex gastrointestinal procedures. The expansion of subspecialty ESP should be considered.

IEA-R1 Nuclear Research Reactor: 58 Years of Operating Experience and Utilization for Research, Teaching and Radioisotopes Production

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cardenas, Jose Patricio Nahuel; Filho, Tufic Madi; Saxena, Rajendra

IEA-R1 research reactor at the Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (Nuclear and Energy Research Institute) IPEN, Sao Paulo, Brazil is the largest power research reactor in Brazil, with a maximum power rating of 5 MWth. It is being used for basic and applied research in the nuclear and neutron related sciences, for the production of radioisotopes for medical and industrial applications, and for providing services of neutron activation analysis, real time neutron radiography, and neutron transmutation doping of silicon. IEA-R1 is a swimming pool reactor, with light water as the coolant and moderator, and graphite and beryllium as reflectors.more » The reactor was commissioned on September 16, 1957 and achieved its first criticality. It is currently operating at 4.5 MWth with a 60-hour cycle per week. In the early sixties, IPEN produced {sup 131}I, {sup 32}P, {sup 198}Au, {sup 24}Na, {sup 35}S, {sup 51}Cr and labeled compounds for medical use. During the past several years, a concerted effort has been made in order to upgrade the reactor power to 5 MWth through refurbishment and modernization programs. One of the reasons for this decision was to produce {sup 99}Mo at IPEN. The reactor cycle will be gradually increased to 120 hours per week continuous operation. It is anticipated that these programs will assure the safe and sustainable operation of the IEA-R1 reactor for several more years, to produce important primary radioisotopes {sup 99}Mo, {sup 125}I, {sup 131}I, {sup 153}Sm and {sup 192}Ir. Currently, all aspects of dealing with fuel element fabrication, fuel transportation, isotope processing, and spent fuel storage are handled by IPEN at the site. The reactor modernization program is slated for completion by 2015. This paper describes 58 years of operating experience and utilization of the IEA-R1 research reactor for research, teaching and radioisotopes production. (authors)« less

Operational Experience from Solar Thermal Energy Projects

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cameron, C. P.

1984-01-01

Over the past few years, Sandia National Laboratories were involved in the design, construction, and operation of a number of DOE-sponsored solar thermal energy systems. Among the systems currently in operation are several industrial process heat projects and the Modular Industrial Solar Retrofit qualification test systems, all of which use parabolic troughs, and the Shenandoah Total Energy Project, which uses parabolic dishes. Operational experience has provided insight to both desirable and undesirable features of the designs of these systems. Features of these systems which are also relevant to the design of parabolic concentrator thermal electric systems are discussed. Other design features discussed are system control functions which were found to be especially convenient or effective, such as local concentrator controls, rainwash controls, and system response to changing isolation. Drive systems are also discussed with particular emphasis of the need for reliability and the usefulness of a manual drive capability.

Operational experience of the OC-OTEC experiments at NELH

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Link, H

1989-02-01

The Solar Energy Research Institute, under funding and program direction from the US Department of Energy, has been operating a small-scale test apparatus to investigate key components of open- cycle ocean thermal energy conversion (OC-OTEC). The apparatus started operations in October 1987 and continues to provide valuable information on heat-and mass-transfer processes in evaporators and condensers, gas sorption processes as seawater is depressurized and repressurized, and control and instrumentation characteristics of open-cycle systems. Although other test facilities have been used to study some of these interactions, this is the largest apparatus of its kind to use seawater since Georges Claude`smore » efforts in 1926. The information obtained from experiments conducted in this apparatus is being used to design a larger scale experiment in which a positive net power production is expected to be demonstrated for the first time with OC-OTEC. This paper describes the apparatus, the major tests conducted during its first 18 months of operation, and the experience gained in OC-OTEC system operation. 13 refs., 8 figs.« less

Karydakis operation for sacrococcygeal pilonidal sinus disease: experience in a district general hospital.

PubMed Central

Anyanwu, A. C.; Hossain, S.; Williams, A.; Montgomery, A. C.

1998-01-01

Asymmetrical excision of sacrococcygeal pilonidal sinus has been shown to be associated with low recurrence rates. We report our experience with an asymmetric technique--the Karydakis operation. Of 28 patients who had the operation over a 4-year period, no recurrences were observed in 27 patients available for follow-up (median follow-up 3 years). Three patients had complications requiring surgical intervention. The operation is easy to teach and learn and is worth considering by both specialist and non-specialist surgeons. PMID:9682644

Operative experience of residents in US general surgery programs: a gap between expectation and experience.

PubMed

Bell, Richard H; Biester, Thomas W; Tabuenca, Arnold; Rhodes, Robert S; Cofer, Joseph B; Britt, L D; Lewis, Frank R

2009-05-01

The purpose of the study was to identify a group of operations which general surgery residency program directors believed residents should be competent to perform by the end of 5 years of training and then ascertain actual resident experience with these procedures during their training. There is concern about the adequacy of training of general surgeons in the United States. The American Board of Surgery and the Association of Program Directors in Surgery undertook a study to determine what operative procedures residency program directors consider to be essential to the practice of general surgery and then we measured the actual operative experience of graduating residents in those procedures, as reported to the Residency Review Committee for Surgery (RRC). An electronic survey was sent to residency program directors at the 254 general surgery programs in the US accredited by the RRC as of spring 2006. The program directors were presented with a list of 300 types of operations. Program directors graded the 300 procedures "A," "B," or "C" using the following criteria: A--graduating general surgery residents should be competent to perform the procedure independently; B--graduating residents should be familiar with the procedure, but not necessarily competent to perform it; and C--graduating residents neither need to be familiar with nor competent to perform the procedure. After ballots were tallied, the actual resident operative experience reported to the RRC by all residents finishing general surgery training in June 2005 was reviewed. One hundred twenty-one of the 300 operations were considered A level procedures by a majority of program directors (PDs). Graduating 2005 US residents (n = 1022) performed only 18 of the 121 A procedures, an average of more than 10 times during residency; 83 of 121 procedures were performed on an average less than 5 times and 31 procedures less than once. For 63 of the 121 procedures, the mode (most commonly reported) experience was 0

Radar-based alert system to operate a sewerage network: relevance and operational effectiveness after several years of use.

PubMed

Faure, D; Payrastre, O; Auchet, P

2005-01-01

Since January 2000, the sewerage network of a very urbanised catchment area in the Greater Nancy Urban Community has been operated according to the alarms generated in real time by a storm alert system using weather radar data. This alert system is based on an automatic identification of intense rain cells in the radar images. This paper presents the characteristics of this alert system and synthesises the main results of two complementary studies realised in 2002 in order to estimate the relevance and the operational effectiveness of the alert system. The first study consisted in an off-line analysis of almost 50,000 intense rain cells detected in four years of historical radar data. The second study was an analysis of the experience feedback after two years of operational use of this alert system. The results of these studies are discussed in function of the initial operational objectives.

["Suddenly I was all alone": traumatic experiences of a 12 year old girl during the "Operation Gomorrha" and its transmission over three generations].

PubMed

Möller, Birgit; Lamparter, Ulrich; Wiegand-Grefe, Silke

2012-01-01

Air strikes on Hamburg in 1943 ("Operation Gomorrha") were a historical turning point and had a deep impact on both cityscape and history of Hamburg. Little is known about intraindividual and transgenerational consequences as well as its interaction with societal and historical processes. Aiming at closing this gap interviews with witnesses, their children and grandchildren, as well as the whole family, were conducted in the context of an interdisciplinary research project. Based on the example of an interview with a at the time of the "Operation Gomorrha" eleven years old witness, her daughter, and grandson the biographical localisation of war experiences and transgenerational transmission will be explained and discussed.

Terminal-area STOL operating systems experiments program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, D. W.; Watson, D.; Christensen, J. V.

1973-01-01

Information which will aid in the choice by the U.S. Government and industry of system concepts, design criteria, operating procedures for STOL aircraft and STOL ports, STOL landing guidance systems, air traffic control systems, and airborne avionics and flight control systems. Ames has developed a terminal-area STOL operating systems experiments program which is a part of the joint DOT/NASA effort is discussed. The Ames operating systems experiments program, its objectives, the program approach, the program schedule, typical experiments, the research facilities to be used, and the program status are described.

Building on 50 Years of Mission Operations Experience for a New Era of Space Exploration

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Onken, Jay F.; Singer, Christopher E.

2008-01-01

The U.S. National Space Policy, I the 14-nation Global Exploration Strategy,2 and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) 2006 Strategic Plan3 provide foundational direction for far-ranging missions, from safely flying the Space Shuttle and completing construction of the International Space Station by 2010, to fielding a next generation space transportation system consisting of the Ares I Crew Launch Vehicle!Orion Crew Exploration Vehicle and the Ares V Cargo Launch Vehicle!Altair Lunar Lander (fig. 1). Transportation beyond low-Earth orbit will open the frontier for a lunar outpost, where astronauts will harness in-situ resources while exploring this 4 billion-year-old archaeological site, which may hold answers to how the Earth and its satellite were formed. Ultimately, this experience will pave the way for the first human footprint on Mars. In October 2007, NASA" announced assignments for this lunar exploration work.4 The Marshall Space Flight Center is responsible for designing, developing, testing, and evaluating the Ares I and Ares V, which are Space Shuttle derived launch vehicles, along with a number of lunar tasks. The Marshall Center's Engineering Directorate provides the skilled workforce and unique manufacturing, testing, and operational infrastructure needed to deliver space transportation solutions that meet the requirements stated in the Constellation Architecture Requirements Document (CARD). While defining design reference missions to the Station and the Moon, the CARD includes goals that include reducing recurring and nonrecurring costs, while increasing safety and reliability. For this reason, future systems are being designed with operability considerations and lifecycle expenses as independent variables in engineering trade studies.

TSTA Piping and Flame Arrestor Operating Experience Data

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cadwallader, Lee C.; Willms, R. Scott

The Tritium Systems Test Assembly (TSTA) was a facility dedicated to tritium handling technology and experiment research at the Los Alamos National Laboratory. The facility operated from 1984 to 2001, running a prototype fusion fuel processing loop with ~100 grams of tritium as well as small experiments. There have been several operating experience reports written on this facility’s operation and maintenance experience. This paper describes analysis of two additional components from TSTA, small diameter gas piping that handled small amounts of tritium in a nitrogen carrier gas, and the flame arrestor used in this piping system. The operating experiences andmore » the component failure rates for these components are discussed in this paper. Comparison data from other applications are also presented.« less

MIT January Operational Internship Experience

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bosanac, Natasha; DeVivero, Charlie; James, Jillian; Perez-Martinez, Carla; Pino, Wendy; Wang, Andrew; Willett, Ezekiel; Williams, Kwami

2010-01-01

This viewgraph presentation describes the MIT January Operational Internship Experience (JOIE) program. The topics include: 1) Landing and Recovery; 2) Transportation; 3) Shuttle Processing; 4) Constellation Processing; 5) External Tank; 6) Launch Pad; 7) Ground Operations; 8) Hypergolic Propellants; 9) Environmental; 10) Logistics; 11) Six Sigma; 12) Systems Engineering; and 13) Human Factors.

Psychological Support Operations and the ISS One-Year Mission

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Beven, G.; Vander Ark, S. T.; Holland, A. W.

2016-01-01

Since NASA began human presence on the International Space Station (ISS) in November 1998, crews have spent two to seven months onboard. In March 2015 NASA and Russia embarked on a new era of ISS utilization, with two of their crewmembers conducting a one-year mission onboard ISS. The mission has been useful for both research and mission operations to better understand the human, technological, mission management and staffing challenges that may be faced on missions beyond Low Earth Orbit. The work completed during the first 42 ISS missions provided the basis for the pre-flight, in-flight and post-flight work completed by NASA's Space Medicine Operations Division, while our Russian colleagues provided valuable insights from their long-duration mission experiences with missions lasting 10-14 months, which predated the ISS era. Space Medicine's Behavioral Health and Performance Group (BHP) provided pre-flight training, evaluation, and preparation as well as in-flight psychological support for the NASA crewmember. While the BHP team collaboratively planned for this mission with the help of all ISS international partners within the Human Behavior and Performance Working Group to leverage their collective expertise, the US and Russian BHP personnel were responsible for their respective crewmembers. The presentation will summarize the lessons and experience gained within the areas identified by this Working Group as being of primary importance for a one-year mission.

White Cliffs: Operating Experience

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kaneff, S.

1984-01-01

The fourteen dish white cliffs solar power station area is remote and subject to extreme environmental conditions, solution of the associated problems required careful and thoughtful attention and the application of resources. Notwithstanding the wide range and harshness of conditions, the difficulties caused by remoteness and the lack of a technological base and the need for relatively rapid demonstration of success, the project has had a very positive outcome. Qualitative and quantitative information and lessons are now available to enable considerable simplifications to be made for a new system, reducing both hardware and operation and maintenance costs. Experience and lessons are presented, particularly in relation to: system performance in various environmental conditions; design philosophies for collectors, the array, control systems, engine and plant; operation and maintenance strategies and cost reducing possibilities. Experience so far gives encouragement for the future of such paraboloidal dish systems in appropriate areas.

Temporal bone paragangliomas: 15 years experience.

PubMed

Düzlü, Mehmet; Tutar, Hakan; Karamert, Recep; Karaloğlu, Furkan; Şahin, Muammer Melih; Göcek, Mehmet; Uğur, Mehmet Birol; Göksu, Nebil

2016-12-08

Temporal bone paragangliomas (TBPs) are benign tumors arising from neural crest cells located along the jugular bulbus and the tympanic plexus. In general surgical excision, radiotherapy and wait-and-scan protocols are the main management modalities for TBPs. In this paper we aim to present our clinical experience with TBPs and to review literature data. The patients who were operated for tympanomastoid paraganglioma (TMP) or tympanojugular paraganglioma (TJP) in our clinic in the last 15 years were enrolled in the study. A detailed patient's charts review was performed retrospectively. There were 18 (52.9%) cases with TMPs and 16 (47.1%) cases with TJPs, a total of 34 patients operated for TBPs in this time period. The mean age was 50.3± 11.7 (range 25-71 years). The most common presenting symptoms were tinnitus and hearing loss for both TMPs and TJPs. Gross total tumor resection was achieved in 17 (94.4%) and 10 (62.5%) cases for TMPs and TJPs, respectively. Five patients (31.2%) with TJP experienced facial palsy following the operation. For all the patients the mean follow-up period was 25.8 months (range 4-108 months). In conclusion, based on our findings and literature review, total surgical excision alone or with preoperative embolization is the main treatment modality for TBPs. However radiotherapy, observation protocol and subtotal resection must be considered in cases of preoperative functioning cranial nerves, large tumors and advanced age. Copyright © 2016 Associação Brasileira de Otorrinolaringologia e Cirurgia Cérvico-Facial. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

Analysis of failure and maintenance experiences of motor operated valves in a Finnish nuclear power plant

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Simola, Kaisa; Laakso, Kari

1992-01-01

Eight years of operating experiences of 104 motor operated closing valves in different safety systems in nuclear power units were analyzed in a systematic way. The qualitative methods used were Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) and Maintenance Effects and Criticality Analysis (MECA). These reliability engineering methods are commonly used in the design stage of equipment. The successful application of these methods for analysis and utilization of operating experiences was demonstrated.

[Ambulatory pediatric surgery: 25 years of experience].

PubMed

González Landa, G; Sánchez-Ruiz, I; Prado, C; Azcona, I; Sánchez, C

2000-10-01

The objectives of this study are: collect 25 years of experience with ambulatory pediatric surgery in The Pediatric Surgery Service of Hospital de Cruces, present the results of a parents-patient satisfaction survey and show the estimated money savings in the last five years. In the period 1973-1997, 19,934 children (56% of the total surgical cases) were operated with ambulatory surgery, and have been grouped in five quinquenia, showing a constant increase of the percentage of ambulatory surgery. General surgery and ENT are the specialities that more frequently uses this type of surgery (72.4% and 68.6% of the surgical cases of each speciality, respectively, in the last ten years). In general surgery inguinal hernia is the most frequent diagnosis with an increase of orchidopexy in the last five years. ENT is doing ambulatory tonsilectomies in the last ten years. The prolonged recovery stay and unanticipated admissions are rare, usually due to vomiting. The parents satisfaction survey shows great acceptancy, although 13% preferred an overnight postoperative stay. The estimated money saved in the last quinquenia has been important.

Accelerator/Experiment Operations - FY 2014

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Czarapata, P.; Geer, S.; Geesaman, D.

2014-10-01

This Technical Memorandum (TM) summarizes the Fermilab accelerator and accelerator experiment operations for FY 2014. It is one of a series of annual publications intended to gather information in one place. In this case, the information concerns the FY 2014 MINOS and MINERvA experiments using the Main Injector Neutrino Beam (NuMI), the MiniBooNE experiment running in the Booster Neutrino Beam (BNB), and the SeaQuest experiment and Meson Test Beam (MTest) activities in the 120 GeV external Switchyard beam (SY120). Each section was prepared by the relevant authors, and was somewhat edited for inclusion in this summary.

Accelerator/Experiment Operations - FY 2016

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Blake, A.; Convery, M.; Geer, S.

2016-10-01

This Technical Memorandum summarizes the Fermilab accelerator and experiment operations for FY 2016. It is one of a series of annual publications intended to gather information in one place. In this case, the information concerns the FY 2016 NOvA, MINOS+ and MINERvA experiments using the Main Injector Neutrino Beam (NuMI), the MicroBooNE experiment and the activities in the SciBooNE Hall using the Booster Neutrino Beam (BNB), and the SeaQuest experiment, LArIAT experiment and Meson Test Beam activities in the 120 GeV external switchyard beam (SY120). Each section was prepared by the relevant authors, and was then edited for inclusion inmore » this summary.« less

ESOC's System for Interplanetary Orbit Determination: Implementation and Operational Experience

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Budnik, F.; Morley, T. A.; MacKenzie, R. A.

A system for interplanetary orbit determination has been developed at ESOC over the past six years. Today, the system is in place and has been proven to be both reliable and robust by successfully supporting critical operations of ESA's interplanetary spacecraft Rosetta, Mars Express, and SMART-1. To reach this stage a long and challenging way had to be travelled. This paper gives a digest about the journey from the development and testing to the operational use of ESOC's new interplanetary orbit determination system. It presents the capabilities and reflects experiences gained from the performed tests and tracking campaigns.

The SILEX experiment system operations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Demelenne, B.

1994-01-01

The European Space Agency is going to conduct an inter orbit link experiment which will connect a low Earth orbiting satellite and a Geostationary satellite via optical terminals. This experiment has been called SILEX (Semiconductor Inter satellite Link EXperiment). Two payloads will be built. One called PASTEL (PASsager de TELecommunication) will be embarked on the French Earth observation satellite SPOT4. The future European experimental data relay satellite ARTEMIS (Advanced Relay and TEchnology MISsion) will carry the OPALE terminal (Optical PAyload Experiment). The principal characteristic of the mission is a 50 Megabits flow of data transmitted via the optical satellite link. The relay satellite will route the data via its feeder link thus permitting a real time reception in the European region of images taken by the observation satellite. The PASTEL terminal has been designed to cover up to 9 communication sessions per day with an average of 5. The number of daily contact opportunities with the low earth orbiting satellite will be increased and the duration will be much longer than the traditional passes over a ground station. The terminals have an autonomy of 24 hours with respect to ground control. Each terminal will contain its own orbit model and that of its counter terminal for orbit prediction and for precise computation of pointing direction. Due to the very narrow field of view of the communication laser beam, the orbit propagation calculation needs to be done with a very high accuracy. The European Space Agency is responsible for the operation of both terminals. A PASTEL Mission Control System (PMCS) is being developed to control the PASTEL terminal on board SPOT4. The PMCS will interface with the SPOT4 Control Centre for the execution of the PASTEL operations. The PMCS will also interface with the ARTEMIS Mission Control System for the planning and the coordination of the operation. It is the first time that laser technology will be used to support

[Surgical treatment of esophageal achalasia--20 years experience].

PubMed

Yaramov, N; Sokolov, M; Angelov, K; Toshev, S; Petrov, B

2009-01-01

Achalasia comes from a Greek word that means "failure to relax." Cardiospasm and achalasia refer to the same condition. This report addresses esophageal achalasia--its history, diagnosis, pathophysiology, and treatment options. We report our experience in treating this disorder surgically using modified Heller myotomy combined or not with partial gastric fundoplication. 47 patients with achalasia surgically operated in 20-years period are reported by authors. These features make it reasonable to reasses the relative indications for surgery and nonsurgical therapy in achalasia of the esophagus.

MIT January Operational Internship Experience 2011

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

DeLatte, Danielle; Furhmann, Adam; Habib, Manal; Joujon-Roche, Cecily; Opara, Nnaemeka; Pasterski, Sabrina Gonzalez; Powell, Christina; Wimmer, Andrew

2011-01-01

This slide presentation reviews the 2011 January Operational Internship experience (JOIE) program which allows students to study operational aspects of spaceflight, how design affects operations and systems engineering in practice for 3 weeks. Topics include: (1) Systems Engineering (2) NASA Organization (3) Workforce Core Values (4) Human Factors (5) Safety (6) Lean Engineering (7) NASA Now (8) Press, Media, and Outreach and (9) Future of Spaceflight.

Five Years of Cyclotron Radioisotope Production Experiences at the First PET-CT in Venezuela

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Colmenter, L.; Coelho, D.; Esteves, L. M.

2007-10-26

Five years operation of a compact cyclotron installed at PET-CT facility in Caracas, Venezuela is given. Production rate of {sup 18}F labeled FDG, operation and radiation monitoring experience are included. We conclude that {sup 18}FDG CT-PET is the most effective technique for patient diagnosis.

Accelerator/Experiment Operations - FY 2015

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Czarapata, P.

2015-10-01

This Technical Memorandum summarizes the Fermilab accelerator and experiment operations for FY 2015. It is one of a series of annual publications intended to gather information in one place. In this case, the information concerns the FY 2015 NOvA, MINOS+ and MINERvA experiments using the Main Injector Neutrino Beam (NuMI), the activities in the SciBooNE Hall using the Booster Neutrino Beam (BNB), and the SeaQuest experiment and Meson Test Beam (MTest) activities in the 120 GeV external Switchyard beam (SY120).

Operational Amplifier Experiments for the Chemistry Laboratory.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Braun, Robert D.

1996-01-01

Provides details of experiments that deal with the use of operational amplifiers and are part of a course in instrumental analysis. These experiments are performed after the completion of a set of electricity and electronics experiments. (DDR)

Health surveillance in milling, baking and other food manufacturing operations--five years' experience.

PubMed

Smith, T A; Patton, J

1999-04-01

The objective of this study was to describe the incidence of allergic respiratory disease and its outcome in terms of symptoms and jobs, across different flour-using industries. It uses the findings of a health surveillance programme in a large food organization over a five-year period. The population under surveillance consisted of 3,450 employees with exposure to ingredient dusts, of whom 400 were in flour milling, 1,650 in bread baking, 550 in cake baking and 850 in other flour-using operations. A total of 66 employees with either asthma or rhinitis symptoms attributable to sensitization to allergens in the workplace were identified. The majority of these (48/66) had become symptomatic prior to the commencement of the health surveillance programme in 1993. The incidence rates (per million employees per year) for those who developed symptoms between 1993 and 1997 were 550 for flour milling, 1,940 for bread baking, 0 for cake baking and 235 for other flour-using operations. The agent believed to be responsible for symptoms was most commonly grain dust in flour millers and fungal amylase in bread bakers. Wheat flour appeared to have a weaker sensitizing potential than these other two substances. In terms of outcome, at follow-up 18% of symptomatically sensitized employees had left the company. Two of the ex-employees retired through ill health due to occupational asthma. Of those still in employment, 63% described an improvement in symptoms, 32% were unchanged and 4% were worse than when first diagnosed. Over half the cases still in employment were continuing to work in the same job as at the time of diagnosis.

Vascular Trauma Operative Experience is Inadequate in General Surgery Programs.

PubMed

Yan, Huan; Maximus, Steven; Koopmann, Matthew; Keeley, Jessica; Smith, Brian; Virgilio, Christian de; Kim, Dennis Y

2016-05-01

Vascular injuries may be challenging, particularly for surgeons who have not received formal vascular surgery fellowship training. Lack of experience and improper technique can result in significant complications. The objective of this study was to examine changes in resident experience with operative vascular trauma over time. A retrospective review was performed using Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) case logs of general surgery residents graduating between 2004 and 2014 at 2 academic, university-affiliated institutions associated with level 1 trauma centers. The primary outcome was number of reported vascular trauma operations, stratified by year of graduation and institution. A total of 112 residents graduated in the study period with a median 7 (interquartile range 4.5-13.5) vascular trauma cases per resident. Fasciotomy and exposure and/or repair of peripheral vessels constituted the bulk of the operative volume. Linear regression showed no significant trend in cases with respect to year of graduation (P = 0.266). Residents from program A (n = 53) reported a significantly higher number of vascular trauma cases when compared with program B (n = 59): 12.0 vs. 5.0 cases, respectively (P < 0.001). Level 1 trauma center verification does not guarantee sufficient exposure to vascular trauma. The operative exposure in program B is reflective of the national average of 4.0 cases per resident as reported by the ACGME, and this trend is unlikely to change in the near future. Fellowship training may be critical for surgeons who plan to work in a trauma setting, particularly in areas lacking vascular surgeons. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Advanced laparoscopic fellowship and general surgery residency can coexist without detracting from surgical resident operative experience.

PubMed

Kothari, Shanu N; Cogbill, Thomas H; O'Heron, Colette T; Mathiason, Michelle A

2008-01-01

Concern has been voiced that general surgery residents who train at institutions that also offer advanced laparoscopic fellowships may receive inadequate advanced laparoscopic operative experience. The purpose of our study was to compare the operative experience of general surgery residents who graduated from our institution before initiation of an advanced laparoscopic fellowship with the experience of those who graduated after the fellowship began. Operative case logs of surgery residents who graduated from 2000 through 2007 and of advanced laparoscopic fellows from 2004 through 2007 were reviewed. Surgery resident experience with basic and nonbariatric advanced laparoscopic cases during the 4 years before the fellowship was compared with the experience during the 4 years after the fellowship began. Residents who graduated before 2004 performed a mean of 140.5 +/- 19.4 basic and 77.0 +/- 17.8 advanced laparoscopic cases during their 5-year residency, compared with 193.3 +/- 34.5 basic (p = 0.003) and 113.3 +/- 23.5 advanced cases (p = 0.005) performed by those who graduated in 2004 or later. The number of nonbariatric advanced laparoscopic cases performed by each graduating surgical resident during the chief year ranged from 26 to 47 cases from 2000 to 2003 and from 36 to 69 cases from 2004 to 2007. Fellows reported from 40 to 85 nonbariatric advanced laparoscopic cases annually. General surgery residents did not experience a reduction in the total number of basic and nonbariatric advanced laparoscopic cases with the addition of an advanced laparoscopic fellowship, nor did they perform fewer cases during the chief year. As the result of a cooperative venture between the surgery residency and fellowship directors as well as an expansion of the total number of laparoscopic cases performed at our institution because of changes in clinical practice, surgery residents reported an increase in the number of laparoscopic cases while a successful fellowship was

FACT - Status and experience from five years of operation of the first G-APD Cherenkov Telescope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Neise, D.; Adam, J.; Ahnen, M. L.; Baack, D.; Balbo, M.; Bergmann, M.; Biland, A.; Blank, M.; Bretz, T.; Brügge, K. A.; Buss, J.; Dmytriiev, A.; Dorner, D.; Einecke, S.; Hempfling, C.; Hildebrand, D.; Hughes, G.; Linhoff, L.; Mannheim, K.; Müller, S.; Neronov, A.; Nöthe, M.; Paravac, A.; Pauss, F.; Rhode, W.; Shukla, A.; Temme, F.; Thaele, J.; Walter, R.

2017-12-01

The First G-APD Cherenkov Telescope (FACT) demonstrates the usability of novel Geiger-mode operated Avalanche Photo Diodes (G-APD, often called SiPM) for Imaging Atmospheric Cherenkov Telescopes (IACT). The camera consists of 1440 pixels with dedicated electronics operating at 2 Giga samples per second. It is installed on the refurbished HEGRA telescope with a mirror area of ≈ 9.5m2 on the Canary Island La Palma. FACT is taking data almost every night since the camera was installed in October 2011. It was possible to improve the data taking efficiency to very high values due to the very stable and reliable operation. This also allows to operate FACT remotely without any need for operators on site. Even remote human intervention became less and less frequent over the years, allowing operation to become mostly automatic. FACT is monitoring the long-term behavior of some very-high energy variable extra-galactic sources with unparalleled sampling density as well as testing the behavior of the sensors under severe weather conditions. Due to the long exposure of FACT's G-APDs under strong moonlight conditions it was possible to evaluate the aging effects of G-APDs due to collected charge. No indication of aging was found. No external calibration device is needed to operate FACT since the properties of the sensors themselves allow for a high precision self-calibration of the camera.

0 + 5 Vascular Surgery Residents' Operative Experience in General Surgery: An Analysis of Operative Logs from 12 Integrated Programs.

PubMed

Smith, Brigitte K; Kang, P Chulhi; McAninch, Chris; Leverson, Glen; Sullivan, Sarah; Mitchell, Erica L

2016-01-01

Integrated (0 + 5) vascular surgery (VS) residency programs must include 24 months of training in core general surgery. The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education currently does not require specific case numbers in general surgery for 0 + 5 trainees; however, program directors have structured this time to optimize operative experience. The aim of this study is to determine the case volume and type of cases that VS residents are exposed to during their core surgery training. Accreditation council for graduate medical education operative logs for current 0 + 5 VS residents were obtained and retrospectively reviewed to determine general surgery case volume and distribution between open and laparoscopic cases performed. Standard statistical methods were applied. A total of 12 integrated VS residency programs provided operative case logs for current residents. A total of 41 integrated VS residents in clinical years 2 through 5. During the postgraduate year-1 training year, residents participated in significantly more open than laparoscopic general surgery cases (p < 0.0001). This difference was consistent over the first 3 years of training. The most frequently logged open general surgery cases are hernia repair (20%), skin and soft tissue (7.4%), and breast (6.3%). Residents in programs with core surgery over 3 years participated in significantly more general surgery operations compared with residents in programs with core surgery spread out over 4 years (p = 0.035). 0 + 5 VS residents perform significantly more open operations than laparoscopic operations during their core surgery training. The majority of these operations are minor, nonabdominal procedures. The 0 + 5 VS residency program general surgery operative training requirements should be reevaluated and case minimums defined. The general surgery training component of 0 + 5 VS residencies may need to be restructured to meet the needs of current and future trainees. Copyright © 2016 Association of

New Safety and Technical Challenges and Operational Experience on the JET First Trace Tritium Experiment

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pearce, R.J.H.; Bell, A.C.; Brennan, D.

'Trace Tritium Experiments' (TTE) were successfully performed on JET in 2003. The Campaign marked the first use of tritium in JET plasmas since the Deuterium-Tritium Experiment (DTE1) Campaign in 1997, and was the first use of tritium in experiments under the EFDA organisation with the UKAEA as JET Operator. The safety and regulatory preparations for the experiment were extensive. Since JET has been operated by the UKAEA the operations have followed the model of a licensed nuclear site. The safe operation of the JET torus is demonstrated in a safety case. Key Safety Management Requirement (KSMR) and Key Safety Relatedmore » Equipment (KSRE) are identified in the Safety Case for DT operation. The safe operation of the torus is within the bounds of, and under the control of, an Authority to Operate (ATO). New technical challenges were presented by the need to inject and account for small quantities of tritium in very short pulses ({approx}80ms), with an accurate time stamp. The safety and operational management of the campaign are described. Valuable lessons were learned which would help in running future experiments. It is concluded that JET is in a strong position to run future trace tritium and full DT discharges.« less

The Laser Ranging Experiment of the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter: Five Years of Operations and Data Analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mao, Dandan; McGarry, Jan F.; Mazarico, Erwan; Neumann, Gregory A.; Sun, Xiaoli; Torrence, Mark H.; Zagwodzki, Thomas W.; Rowlands, David D.; Hoffman, Evan D.; Horvath, Julie E.;

Terminal-area STOL operating systems experiments program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, D. W.; Watson, D.; Christensen, J. V.

1972-01-01

A system study to determine the application of short takeoff aircraft for a high speed, short haul air transportation service was conducted. The study focused on developing information which will aid in choosing system concepts, design criteria, operating procedures, landing guidance systems, air traffic control systems, and airborne avionics and flight control systems. A terminal area STOL operating system experiments program was developed. The objectives, program approach, program schedule, typical experiments, research facilities to be used, and program status are discussed.

Operative experience of surgery residents: trends and challenges.

PubMed

Malangoni, Mark A; Biester, Thomas W; Jones, Andrew T; Klingensmith, Mary E; Lewis, Frank R

2013-01-01

To evaluate trends in operative experience and to determine the effect of establishing the Surgical Council on Resident Education (SCORE) operative classification system on changes in operative volume among graduating surgery residents. The general surgery operative logs of graduating surgery residents from 2005 were retrospectively compared with residents who completed training in 2010 and 2011. Nonparametric statistical analyses were used (Mann-Whitney and median test) with significance set at p<0.01. A total of 1022 residents completing residency in 2005 were compared with 1923 residents completing training in 2010-2011. Total operations reported increased from a median of 1023 to 1238 (21%) between 2005 and 2010-2011 (p<0.001). Cases increased in most SCORE categories. The median numbers of total, basic, and complex laparoscopic operations increased by 49%, 37%, and 82%, respectively, over the 5-year interval (p<0.001). Open cavitary (thoracic + abdominal) operations decreased by 5%, whereas other major operations increased by 35% (both p<0.001). The frequency of discrete operations done at least 10 times during residency did not change. The median number of SCORE essential-common operations performed ranged from 1 to 107, whereas essential-uncommon operations ranged from 0 to 4. Twenty-three of 67 SCORE essential-common operations (34%) had a median of less than 5 and 4 had a median of 0. The operative volume of graduating surgical residents has increased by 21% since 2005; however, the number of operations done 10 times or greater has not changed. Although open cavitary procedures continue to decline, there has been a large increase in endoscopy, complex laparoscopic, and other major operations. Some essential-common operations continue to be performed infrequently. These results suggest that education in the operating room must improve and alternate methods for teaching infrequently performed procedures are needed. © 2013 Published by Association of Program

Treatment of severe tracheobronchomalacia: Ten-year experience.

PubMed

de Trey, Lorraine A; Dudley, Julia; Ismail-Koch, Hasnaa; Durward, Andrew; Bellsham-Revell, Hannah; Blaney, Sean; Hore, Ian; Austin, Conal B; Morrison, Gavin A

2016-04-01

Paediatric tracheobronchomalacia is a rare but potentially serious condition. Severe tracheobronchomalacia requires intervention or operation. This is an evaluation of a ten-year experience at an institution. In this retrospective study all patients were included that required an intervention for severe tracheobronchomalacia from 2003 to 2012. Symptoms, aetiology, comorbidities, localisation of the malacia, age at diagnosis, therapeutic measures and associated complications were evaluated. Forty-four patients with severe tracheobronchomalacia underwent intervention/operation. The predominant aetiology was vascular compression in 48%. The majority of patients had complex comorbidities, most importantly cardiac pathology in 66%. The median age at diagnosis was 3 months. A total of 17 aortopexies, 21 tracheostomies and 25 stent placements were performed. The mean follow-up was 2.6 years. Severe complications occurred in 12 patients. The most common complications were stent obstruction/fracture and tracheostomy tube obstruction. The management of severe tracheobronchomalacia is complex and the population of patients is very heterogeneous. Therefore the treatment has to be adapted for each patient individually. The decision strategies are discussed in this article. The surgical techniques for placement and safe removal of expandable bare metallic stents employed in our institution are presented. A multidisciplinary team of ENT surgeons, Intensivists, Cardiologists and Cardiac surgeons is of great importance. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

[Operating Room Nurses' Experiences of Securing for Patient Safety].

PubMed

Park, Kwang Ok; Kim, Jong Kyung; Kim, Myoung Sook

2015-10-01

This study was done to evaluate the experience of securing patient safety in hospital operating rooms. Experiential data were collected from 15 operating room nurses through in-depth interviews. The main question was "Could you describe your experience with patient safety in the operating room?". Qualitative data from the field and transcribed notes were analyzed using Strauss and Corbin's grounded theory methodology. The core category of experience with patient safety in the operating room was 'trying to maintain principles of patient safety during high-risk surgical procedures'. The participants used two interactional strategies: 'attempt continuous improvement', 'immersion in operation with sharing issues of patient safety'. The results indicate that the important factors for ensuring the safety of patients in the operating room are manpower, education, and a system for patient safety. Successful and safe surgery requires communication, teamwork and recognition of the importance of patient safety by the surgical team.

Surgical management of gynecomastia: 20 years' experience.

PubMed

Lapid, O; Jolink, F

2014-03-01

Gynecomastia, breast hypertrophy in men, is a common finding. The diagnosis is clinical, and ancillary tests may be performed; however, there is no unanimity in the literature about their use or utility. The mainstay of management is conservative, with a minority of patients being operated on. The surgical treatment of gynecomastia is not restricted to one discipline and is performed by plastic, general, and pediatric surgeons. The aim of this study was to assess the experience treating gynecomastia in a university hospital and the practices of the different surgical disciplines in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of gynecomastia; this knowledge could be used for the formulation of guidelines and the allocation of health-care resources. a university medical center. A retrospective cohort study in which all records of patients operated on for gynecomastia over a 20-year period were retrieved. Data were obtained concerning patient demographics, responsible surgical discipline, the workup and etiology found, the surgical technique used, the occurrence of reoperations and revisions, and the use of pathological examination and its results. A total of 179 patients were treated. There was a difference between the patient groups operated on by the different disciplines regarding the indication, the workup, as well as in the operative techniques used. Plastic surgeons performed more bilateral operations than the other disciplines. Surgeons used more radiology and cytology testing. These results most probably represent differences in the population and pathologies treated. This is possibly due to a bias in the referrals by primary care physicians.

5-year operation experience with the 1.8 K refrigeration units of the LHC cryogenic system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ferlin, G.; Tavian, L.; Claudet, S.; Pezzetti, M.

2015-12-01

Since 2009, the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) is in operation at CERN. The LHC superconducting magnets distributed over eight sectors of 3.3-km long are cooled at 1.9 K in pressurized superfluid helium. The nominal operating temperature of 1.9 K is produced by eight 1.8-K refrigeration units based on centrifugal cold compressors (3 or 4 stages depending to the vendor) combined with warm volumetric screw compressors with sub-atmospheric suction. After about 5 years of continuous operation, we will present the results concerning the availability for the final user of these refrigeration units and the impact of the design choice on the recovery time after a system trip. We will also present the individual results for each rotating machinery in terms of failure origin and of Mean Time between Failure (MTBF), as well as the consolidations and upgrades applied to these refrigeration units.

Operative experience in an orthopaedic surgery residency program: the effect of work-hour restrictions.

PubMed

Baskies, Michael A; Ruchelsman, David E; Capeci, Craig M; Zuckerman, Joseph D; Egol, Kenneth A

2008-04-01

The implementation of Section 405 of the New York State Public Health Code and the adoption of similar policies by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education in 2002 restricted resident work hours to eighty hours per week. The effect of these policies on operative volume in an orthopaedic surgery residency training program is a topic of concern. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of the work-hour restrictions on the operative experiences of residents in a large university-based orthopaedic surgery residency training program in an urban setting. We analyzed the operative logs of 109 consecutive orthopaedic surgery residents (postgraduate years 2 through 5) from 2000 through 2006, representing a consecutive interval of years before and after the adoption of the work-hour restrictions. Following the implementation of the new work-hour policies, there was no significant difference in the operative volume for postgraduate year-2, 3, or 4 residents. However, the average operative volume for a postgraduate year-5 resident increased from 274.8 to 348.4 cases (p = 0.001). In addition, on analysis of all residents as two cohorts (before 2002 and after 2002), the operative volume for residents increased by an average of 46.6 cases per year (p = 0.02). On the basis of the findings of this study, concerns over the potential adverse effects of the resident work-hour polices on operative volume for orthopaedic surgery residents appear to be unfounded.

Practical experience and challenges in the operation of medical cyclotron.

PubMed

Kumar, Rajeev; Sonkawade, Rajendra G; Pandey, Anil K; Tripathi, Madhavi; Damle, Nishikant A; Kumar, Praveen; Bal, Chandra S

2017-01-01

The aim of this article was to share 10 years of operational experience of medical cyclotron and to provide working knowledge on the same. This experience has helped us gain working knowledge on cyclotron operation with practical points, which may help in improving F yield, minimizing the breakdown time, and help in the prevention of the occurrence of unusual events. Our facility has a self-shielded radioisotope delivery system eclipse 111 medical cyclotron with an 11 MeV proton beam in use for the past 10 years to produce positron emitters - namely, F, N, and F-2 gas - for PET imaging. During F production, we have followed a set protocol comprising the following: monitoring target pressure, rinsing the target with O water just immediately after bombardment, ion source feedback, radiofrequency (RF) feedback, and recording any unusual events that occurred during the operation. Besides this, enrichment of O water, target volume, target current, energy of the beam, variation in argon pressure on the target, bombardment duration, target status (new or old target or total number of previous bombardments on the same target), status of the delivery lines from target to the radiochemistry module (old or new) were also recorded. Rinsing with O water immediately after bombardment increases the life of the target and delivery line. The frequent problems encountered were with the ion source, RF, and target foil rupture. These problems were solved by rebuilding the ion source, changing the fuse of RF, and rebuilding the target. F yield can be increased by rinsing with O water immediately after bombardment. The effect of target leak - that is, rupture of vacuum window - can be avoided by immediate stoppage of bombardment.

ACGME case logs: Surgery resident experience in operative trauma for two decades

PubMed Central

Drake, Frederick Thurston; Van Eaton, Erik G.; Huntington, Ciara R.; Jurkovich, Gregory J.; Aarabi, Shahram; Gow, Kenneth W.

2014-01-01

BACKGROUND Surgery resident education is based on experiential training, which is influenced by changes in clinical management strategies, technical and technologic advances, and administrative regulations. Trauma care has been exposed to each of these factors, prompting concerns about resident experience in operative trauma. The current study analyzed the reported volume of operative trauma for the last two decades; to our knowledge, this is the first evaluation of nationwide trends during such an extended time line. METHODS The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) database of operative logs was queried from academic year (AY) 1989–1990 to 2009–2010 to identify shifts in trauma operative experience. Annual case log data for each cohort of graduating surgery residents were combined into approximately 5-year blocks, designated Period I (AY1989–1990 to AY1993–1994), Period II (AY1994–1995 to AY1998–1999), Period III (AY1999–2000 to AY2002–2003), and Period IV (AY2003–2004 to AY2009–2010). The latter two periods were delineated by the year in which duty hour restrictions were implemented. RESULTS Overall general surgery caseload increased from Period I to Period II (p < 0.001), remained stable from Period II to Period III, and decreased from Period III to Period IV (p < 0.001). However, for ACGME-designated trauma cases, there were significant declines from Period I to Period II (75.5 vs. 54.5 cases, p < 0.001) and Period II to Period III (54.5 vs. 39.3 cases, p < 0.001) but no difference between Period III and Period IV (39.3 vs. 39.4 cases). Graduating residents in Period I performed, on average, 31 intra-abdominal trauma operations, including approximately five spleen and four liver operations. Residents in Period IV performed 17 intra-abdominal trauma operations, including three spleen and approximately two liver operations. CONCLUSION Recent general surgery trainees perform fewer trauma operations than previous trainees

[Implementation of modern operating room management -- experiences made at an university hospital].

PubMed

Hensel, M; Wauer, H; Bloch, A; Volk, T; Kox, W J; Spies, C

2005-07-01

Caused by structural changes in health care the general need for cost control is evident for all hospitals. As operating room is one of the most cost-intensive sectors in a hospital, optimisation of workflow processes in this area is of particular interest for health care providers. While modern operating room management is established in several clinics yet, others are less prepared for economic challenges. Therefore, the operating room statute of the Charité university hospital useful for other hospitals to develop an own concept is presented. In addition, experiences made with implementation of new management structures are described and results obtained over the last 5 years are reported. Whereas the total number of operation procedures increased by 15 %, the operating room utilization increased more markedly in terms of time and cases. Summarizing the results, central operating room management has been proved to be an effective tool to increase the efficiency of workflow processes in the operating room.

Telescience testbed: operational support functions for biomedical experiments.

PubMed

Yamashita, M; Watanabe, S; Shoji, T; Clarke, A H; Suzuki, H; Yanagihara, D

1992-07-01

A telescience testbed was conducted to study the methodology of space biomedicine with simulated constraints imposed on space experiments. An experimental subject selected for this testbedding was an elaborate surgery of animals and electrophysiological measurements conducted by an operator onboard. The standing potential in the ampulla of the pigeon's semicircular canal was measured during gravitational and caloric stimulation. A principal investigator, isolated from the operation site, participated in the experiment interactively by telecommunication links. Reliability analysis was applied to the whole layers of experimentation, including design of experimental objectives and operational procedures. Engineering and technological aspects of telescience are discussed in terms of reliability to assure quality of science. Feasibility of robotics was examined for supportive functions to reduce the workload of the onboard operator.

ASTER system operating achievement for 15 years on orbit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Inada, Hitomi; Ito, Yoshiyuki; Kikuchi, Masakuni; Sakuma, Fumihiro; Tatsumi, Kenji; Akagi, Shigeki; Ono, Hidehiko

2015-10-01

ASTER (Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer) System is operating more than 15 years since launched on board of NASA's Terra spacecraft in December 1999. ASTER System is composed of 3 radiometers (VNIR (Visible and Near Infrared Radiometer), SWIR (Short-Wave Infrared Radiometer), and TIR (Thermal Infrared Radiometer)), CSP (Common Signal Processor) and MSP (Master Power Supply). This paper describes the ASTER System operating history and the achievement of ASTER System long term operation since the initial checkout operation, the normal operation, and the continuous operation. Through the 15 years operation, ASTER system had totally checked the all subsystems (MPS, VNIR, TIR, SWIR, and CSP) health and safety check using telemetry data trend evaluation, and executed the necessary action. The watch items are monitored as the life control items. The pointing mechanics for VNIR, SWIR and TIR, and the cooler for SWIR and TIR are all operating with any problem for over 15 years. In 2003, ASTER was successfully operated for the lunar calibration. As the future plan, ASTER team is proposing the 2nd lunar calibration before the end of mission.

The Deep Impact Network Experiment Operations Center

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Torgerson, J. Leigh; Clare, Loren; Wang, Shin-Ywan

2009-01-01

Delay/Disruption Tolerant Networking (DTN) promises solutions in solving space communications challenges arising from disconnections as orbiters lose line-of-sight with landers, long propagation delays over interplanetary links, and other phenomena. DTN has been identified as the basis for the future NASA space communications network backbone, and international standardization is progressing through both the Consultative Committee for Space Data Systems (CCSDS) and the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF). JPL has developed an implementation of the DTN architecture, called the Interplanetary Overlay Network (ION). ION is specifically implemented for space use, including design for use in a real-time operating system environment and high processing efficiency. In order to raise the Technology Readiness Level of ION, the first deep space flight demonstration of DTN is underway, using the Deep Impact (DI) spacecraft. Called the Deep Impact Network (DINET), operations are planned for Fall 2008. An essential component of the DINET project is the Experiment Operations Center (EOC), which will generate and receive the test communications traffic as well as "out-of-DTN band" command and control of the DTN experiment, store DTN flight test information in a database, provide display systems for monitoring DTN operations status and statistics (e.g., bundle throughput), and support query and analyses of the data collected. This paper describes the DINET EOC and its value in the DTN flight experiment and potential for further DTN testing.

[Hypoplastic left heart syndrome: 10 year experience with staged surgical management].

PubMed

Urcelay, Gonzalo; Arancibia, Francisca; Retamal, Javiera; Springmuller, Daniel; Clavería, Cristián; Garay, Francisco; Frangini, Patricia; González, Rodrigo; Heusser, Felipe; Arretz, Claudio; Zelada, Pamela; Becker, Pedro

2016-01-01

Hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) is a lethal congenital heart disease in 95% of non-treated patients. Surgical staging is the main form of treatment, consisting of a 3-stage approach, beginning with the Norwood operation. Long term survival of treated patients is unknown in our country. 1) To review our experience in the management of all patients seen with HLHS between January 2000 and June 2012. 2) Identify risk factors for mortality. Retrospective analysis of a single institution experience with a cohort of patients with HLHS. Clinical, surgical, and follow-up records were reviewed. Of the 76 patients with HLHS, 9 had a restrictive atrial septal defect (ASD), and 8 had an ascending aorta ≤2mm. Of the 65 out of 76 patients that were treated, 77% had a Norwood operation with pulmonary blood flow supplied by a right ventricle to pulmonary artery conduit, 17% had a Norwood with a Blalock-Taussig shunt, and 6% other surgical procedure. Surgical mortality at the first stage was 23%, and for Norwood operation 21.3%. For the period between 2000-2005, surgical mortality at the first stage was 36%, and between 2005-2010, 15% (P=.05). Actuarial survival was 64% at one year, and 57% at 5years. Using a multivariate analysis, a restrictive ASD and a diminutive aorta were high risk factors for mortality. Our immediate and long term outcome for staged surgical management of HLHS is similar to that reported by large centres. There is an improvement in surgical mortality in the second half of our experience. Risk factors for mortality are also identified. Copyright © 2015 Sociedad Chilena de Pediatría. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Overview of ten-year operation of the superconducting linear accelerator at the Spallation Neutron Source

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, S.-H.; Afanador, R.; Barnhart, D. L.; Crofford, M.; Degraff, B. D.; Doleans, M.; Galambos, J.; Gold, S. W.; Howell, M. P.; Mammosser, J.; McMahan, C. J.; Neustadt, T. S.; Peters, C.; Saunders, J. W.; Strong, W. H.; Vandygriff, D. J.; Vandygriff, D. M.

2017-04-01

The Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) has acquired extensive operational experience of a pulsed proton superconducting linear accelerator (SCL) as a user facility. Numerous lessons have been learned in its first 10 years operation to achieve a stable and reliable operation of the SCL. In this paper, an overview of the SNS SCL design, qualification of superconducting radio frequency (SRF) cavities and ancillary subsystems, an overview of the SNS cryogenic system, the SCL operation including SCL output energy history and downtime statistics, performance stability of the SRF cavities, efforts for SRF cavity performance recovery and improvement at the SNS, and maintenance activities for cryomodules are introduced.

Overview of ten-year operation of the superconducting linear accelerator at the Spallation Neutron Source

DOE PAGES

Kim, Sang-Ho; Afanador, Ralph; Barnhart, Debra L.; ...

2017-02-04

The Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) has acquired extensive operational experience of a pulsed proton superconducting linear accelerator (SCL) as a user facility. Numerous lessons have been learned in its first 10 years operation to achieve a stable and reliable operation of the SCL. In this paper, an overview of the SNS SCL design, qualification of superconducting radio frequency (SRF) cavities and ancillary subsystems, an overview of the SNS cryogenic system, the SCL operation including SCL output energy history and downtime statistics, performance stability of the SRF cavities, efforts for SRF cavity performance recovery and improvement at the SNS, and maintenancemore » activities for cryomodules are introduced.« less

Overview of ten-year operation of the superconducting linear accelerator at the Spallation Neutron Source

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kim, Sang-Ho; Afanador, Ralph; Barnhart, Debra L.

The Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) has acquired extensive operational experience of a pulsed proton superconducting linear accelerator (SCL) as a user facility. Numerous lessons have been learned in its first 10 years operation to achieve a stable and reliable operation of the SCL. In this paper, an overview of the SNS SCL design, qualification of superconducting radio frequency (SRF) cavities and ancillary subsystems, an overview of the SNS cryogenic system, the SCL operation including SCL output energy history and downtime statistics, performance stability of the SRF cavities, efforts for SRF cavity performance recovery and improvement at the SNS, and maintenancemore » activities for cryomodules are introduced.« less

Ten-year experience of splenic trauma in New Zealand: the rise of non-operative management.

PubMed

Alamri, Yassar; Moon, Dana; Yen, Damien Ah; Wakeman, Chris; Eglinton, Tim; Frizelle, Frank

2017-10-06

The aim of this study was to describe the demographics, mechanisms of injury, management and outcomes in patients who suffered splenic trauma in Christchurch, New Zealand. A retrospective study included all splenic injury patients admitted to Christchurch Public Hospital between January 2005 and August 2015. A total of 238 patients were included, with a median age of 26 years (4-88.7). Of these, 235 patients had blunt injuries. Eighty-nine had high-grade injuries. Yearly admissions of splenic trauma patients have gradually increased. A total of 173 (72.7%) patients were managed with observation; 28 patients (11.8%) had radiological intervention and 37 patients (15.5%) had splenectomy. Patients who died were significantly more likely to be older (median, 46.5 vs 25.2 years, p=0.04) and to have been admitted to ICU (100% vs 32%, p=<0.001). Splenic injuries have shown a steady increase in the last decade. Splenectomy rates have decreased in favour of non-operative techniques. Radiological intervention with splenic artery embolisation was successful in all selected patients with high-grade injuries.

Cassini Maneuver Experience for the Fourth Year of the Solstice Mission

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vaquero, Mar; Hahn, Yungsun; Stumpf, Paul; Valerino, Powtawche; Wagner, Sean; Wong, Mau

2014-01-01

After sixteen years of successful mission operations and invaluable scientific discoveries, the Cassini orbiter continues to tour Saturn on the most complex gravity-assist trajectory ever flown. To ensure that the end-of-mission target of September 2017 is achieved, propellant preservation is highly prioritized over maneuver cycle minimization. Thus, the maneuver decision process, which includes determining whether a maneuver is performed or canceled, designing a targeting strategy and selecting the engine for execution, is being continuously re-evaluated. This paper summarizes the maneuver experience throughout the fourth year of the Solstice Mission highlighting 27 maneuvers targeted to nine Titan flybys.

Nine Years of XMM-Newton Pipeline: Experience and Feedback

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Michel, Laurent; Motch, Christian

2009-05-01

The Strasbourg Astronomical Observatory is member of the Survey Science Centre (SSC) of the XMM-Newton satellite. Among other responsibilities, we provide a database access to the 2XMMi catalogue and run the part of the data processing pipeline performing the cross-correlation of EPIC sources with archival catalogs. These tasks were all developed in Strasbourg. Pipeline processing is flawlessly in operation since 1999. We describe here the work load and infrastructure setup in Strasbourg to support SSC activities. Our nine year long SSC experience could be used in the framework of the Simbol-X ground segment.

Operating experience review of an INL gas monitoring system

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cadwallader, Lee C.; DeWall, K. G.; Herring, J. S.

2015-03-12

This article describes the operations of several types of gas monitors in use at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) High Temperature Electrolysis Experiment (HTE) laboratory. The gases monitored in the lab room are hydrogen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and oxygen. The operating time, calibration, and both actual and unwanted alarms are described. The calibration session time durations are described. In addition, some simple calculations are given to estimate the reliability of these monitors and the results are compared to operating experiences of other types of monitors.

The Freshman Year Experience.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gardner, John N.

1986-01-01

The movement to enhance the freshman year experience by changing the way institutions treat, welcome, assimilate, support, and inform freshman students is discussed and illustrated. The potential importance of the movement to admissions officers and registrars is emphasized. (MSE)

Spacelab operations planning. [ground handling, launch, flight and experiments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, T. J.

1976-01-01

The paper reviews NASA planning in the fields of ground, launch and flight operations and experiment integration to effectively operate Spacelab. Payload mission planning is discussed taking consideration of orbital analysis and the mission of a multiuser payload which may be either single or multidiscipline. Payload analytical integration - as active process of analyses to ensure that the experiment payload is compatible to the mission objectives and profile ground and flight operations and that the resource demands upon Spacelab can be satisfied - is considered. Software integration is touched upon and the major integration levels in ground operational processing of Spacelab and its experimental payloads are examined. Flight operations, encompassing the operation of the Space Transportation System and the payload, are discussed as are the initial Spacelab missions. Charts and diagrams are presented illustrating the various planning areas.

Shifting from Production to Service to Experience-Based Operations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Angelis, Jannis; de Lima, Edson Pinheiro

This chapter covers the shift in focus of value added business operations from ­production to services, and in turn, to experience-based operations where customer involvement itself becomes part of the offering. The shift has significant implications for how businesses are managed. The greater service focus affects the firm's unique value proposition, which necessitates considerations on strategy, supplier relations, post-sale offerings and so on. Meanwhile, the inclusion of customer ­experiences affect the way operations are designed and employed so that these are structurally systematically captured and capitalised.

Engineering challenges of operating year-round portable seismic stations at high-latitude

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Beaudoin, Bruce; Carpenter, Paul; Hebert, Jason; Childs, Dean; Anderson, Kent

2017-04-01

Remote portable seismic stations are, in most cases, constrained by logistics and cost. High latitude operations introduce environmental, technical and logistical challenges that require substantially more engineering work to ensure robust, high quality data return. Since 2006, IRIS PASSCAL has been funded by NSF to develop, deploy, and maintain a pool of polar specific seismic stations. Here, we describe our latest advancements to mitigate the challenges of high-latitude, year-round station operation. The IRIS PASSCAL program has supported high-latitude deployments since the late 1980s. These early deployments were largely controlled source, summer only experiments. In early 2000 PASSCAL users began proposing year-round deployments of broadband stations in some of the harshest environments on the planet. These early year-round deployments were stand-alone (no telemetry) stations largely designed to operate during summer months and then run as long as possible during the winter with hopes the stations would revive come following summer. In 2006 and in collaboration with UNAVCO, we began developing communications, power systems, and enclosures to extend recording to year-round. Since this initial effort, PASSCAL continued refinement to power systems, enclosure design and manufacturability, and real-time data communications. Several sensor and data logger manufacturers have made advances in cold weather performance and delivered newly designed instruments that have furthered our ability to successfully run portable stations at high-latitude with minimal logistics - reducing size and weight of instruments and infrastructure. All PASSCAL polar engineering work is openly shared through our website: www.passcal.nmt.edu/content/polar

Aortic root remodeling: ten-year experience with 274 patients.

PubMed

Aicher, Diana; Langer, Frank; Lausberg, Henning; Bierbach, Benjamin; Schäfers, Hans-Joachim

2007-10-01

Dilatation of the aortic root with concomitant aortic regurgitation can be treated by valve-preserving surgery. We have consistently chosen root remodeling rather than reimplantation whenever the aortoventricular junction was not dilated. We have analyzed our 11-year experience with root remodeling. Between October 1995 and October 2006, 274 patients (201 male; 73 female, aged 59 +/- 15 years) were treated by root remodeling in the presence of a preserved aortoventricular diameter (<30 mm). Acute aortic dissection was present in 46 patients. The valve anatomy was tricuspid in 193 and bicuspid in 81 patients. Cusp disease was additionally corrected in 173 (63%) patients. Follow-up was complete in 99%. Cumulative follow-up was 1045 patient-years (mean of 4.0 +/- 2.7 years). Hospital mortality was 3.6% (elective 3.1%; emergency 6.5%). One patient had endocarditis 2 months postoperatively and subsequently underwent valve replacement. Freedom from aortic regurgitation of grade II or more was 91% and 87% at 10 years for bicuspid and tricuspid aortic valves. Nine patients required reoperation: in 6 patients the valve was replaced and in 3 patients rerepaired. Freedom from reoperation was 96% at 5 and 10 years, and freedom from valve replacement was 98% at 5 and 10 years. A comparison of 3 operative periods (1995-1998, 1999-2002, and 2003-2006) showed that with increasing experience cusp prolapse was diagnosed and corrected more frequently (8/49 = 17%; 62/105 = 59%; 103/108 = 82%; P < .0001), and repair stability significantly improved over time (P = .007). Root remodeling leads to durable restoration of aortic valve function in both tricuspid and bicuspid valve anatomy. Aggressive correction of cusp prolapse seems to have a beneficial effect on aortic valve competence.

GRAS NRT Precise Orbit Determination: Operational Experience

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

MartinezFadrique, Francisco M.; Mate, Alberto Agueda; Rodriquez-Portugal, Francisco Sancho

2007-01-01

EUMETSAT launched the meteorological satellite MetOp-A in October 2006; it is the first of the three satellites that constitute the EUMETSAT Polar System (EPS) space segment. This satellite carries a challenging and innovative instrument, the GNSS Receiver for Atmospheric Sounding (GRAS). The goal of the GRAS instrument is to support the production of atmospheric profiles of temperature and humidity with high accuracy, in an operational context, based on the bending of the GPS signals traversing the atmosphere during the so-called occultation periods. One of the key aspects associated to the data processing of the GRAS instrument is the necessity to describe the satellite motion and GPS receiver clock behaviour with high accuracy and within very strict timeliness limitations. In addition to these severe requirements, the GRAS Product Processing Facility (PPF) must be integrated in the EPS core ground segment, which introduces additional complexity from the data integration and operational procedure points of view. This paper sets out the rationale for algorithm selection and the conclusions from operational experience. It describes in detail the rationale and conclusions derived from the selection and implementation of the algorithms leading to the final orbit determination requirements (0.1 mm/s in velocity and 1 ns in receiver clock error at 1 Hz). Then it describes the operational approach and extracts the ideas and conclusions derived from the operational experience.

Treatment of rectal prolapse in children with cow milk injection sclerotherapy: 30-year experience

PubMed Central

Zganjer, Mirko; Cizmic, Ante; Cigit, Irenej; Zupancic, Bozidar; Bumci, Igor; Popovic, Ljiljana; Kljenak, Antun

2008-01-01

AIM: To evaluate the role and our experience of injection sclerotherapy with cow milk in the treatment of rectal prolapse in children. METHODS: In the last 30 years (1976-2006) we made 100 injections of sclerotherapy with cow milk in 86 children. In this study we included children who failed to respond to conservative treatment and we perform operative treatment. RESULTS: In our study we included 86 children and in all of the patients we perform cow milk injection sclerotherapy. In 95.3% (82 children) of patients sclerotherapy was successful. In 4 (4.7%) patients we had recurrent rectal prolapse where we performed operative treatment. Below 4 years we had 62 children (72%) and 24 older children (28%). In children who needed operative treatment we performed Thiersch operation and without any complications. CONCLUSION: Injection sclerotherapy with cow milk for treatment rectal prolapse in children is a simple and effective treatment for rectal prolapse with minimal complications. PMID:18205264

NASA/ESA CT-990 Spacelab simulation. Appendix A: The experiment operator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reller, J. O., Jr.; Neel, C. B.; Haughney, L. C.

1976-01-01

A joint NASA/ESA endeavor was established to conduct an extensive spacelab simulation using the NASA CV-990 airborne laboratory. The scientific payload was selected to perform studies in upper atmospheric physics and infrared astronomy with principal investigators from France, the Netherlands, England, and several groups from the United States. Two experiment operators from Europe and two from the U.S. were selected to live aboard the aircraft along with a mission manager for a six-day period and operate the experiments in behalf of the principal scientists. This appendix discusses the experiment operators and their relationship to the joint mission under the following general headings: selection criteria, training programs, and performance. The performance of the proxy operators was assessed in terms of adequacy of training, amount of scientific data obtained, quality of data obtained, and reactions to problems that arose in experiment operation.

Preliminary analysis of WL experiment number 701: Space environment effects on operating fiber optic systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Taylor, E. W.; Padden, R. J.; Berry, J. N.; Sanchez, A. D.; Chapman, S. P.

1991-01-01

A brief overview of the analysis performed on WL Experiment number 701 is presented, highlighting the successful operation of the first know active fiber optic links orbited in space. Four operating fiber optic links were exposed to the space environment for a period exceeding five years, situated aboard and external to the Long Duration Exposure Facility (LDEF). Despite the prolonged space exposure to radiation, wide temperature extremums, atomic oxygen interactions, and micrometeorite and debris impacts, the optical data links performed well within specification limits. Early Phillips Laboratory tests and analyses performed on the experiment and its recovered magnetic tape data strongly indicate that fiber optic application in space will have a high success rate.

Operating Experience Review of the INL HTE Gas Monitoring System

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

L. C. Cadwallader; K. G. DeWall

2010-06-01

This paper describes the operations of several types of gas monitors in use at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) High Temperature Electrolysis Experiment (HTE) laboratory. The gases monitored at hydrogen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and oxygen. The operating time, calibration, and unwanted alarms are described. The calibration session time durations are described. Some simple statistics are given for the reliability of these monitors and the results are compared to operating experiences of other types of monitors.

Operating Manual for Two-Year Campus Programs.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ohio Board of Regents, Columbus.

Guidelines and accompanying forms are provided in this operations manual designed as a guide for the management and development of the instructional units at the member institutions of Ohio's two-year college system. The manual first presents the mission statement of the two-year colleges, defines the various types of colleges in the system, and…

14 CFR 121.434 - Operating experience, operating cycles, and consolidation of knowledge and skills.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... consolidation of knowledge and skills. 121.434 Section 121.434 Aeronautics and Space FEDERAL AVIATION... Qualifications § 121.434 Operating experience, operating cycles, and consolidation of knowledge and skills. (a... of knowledge and skills, required by this section, except as follows: (1) Crewmembers other than...

Preparing New Teachers: Operating Successful Field Experience Programs.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Slick, Gloria Appelt, Ed.

This is the second in a series of four books presenting a variety of field experience program models and philosophies that drive the programs provided to preservice teachers during their undergraduate teacher preparation. This publication addresses the operational aspects of a successfully functioning field experience program and office. The…

Experience from operating germanium detectors in GERDA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Palioselitis, Dimitrios; GERDA Collaboration

2015-05-01

Phase I of the Germanium Detector Array (GERDA) experiment, searching for the neutrinoless double beta (0νββ) decay of 76Ge, was completed in September 2013. The most competitive half-life lower limit for the 0νββ decay of 76Ge was set (T-0ν1/2 > 2.1 · 1025 yr at 90% C.L.). GERDA operates bare Ge diodes immersed in liquid argon. During Phase I, mainly refurbished semi-coaxial high purity Ge detectors from previous experiments were used. The experience gained with handling and operating bare Ge diodes in liquid argon, as well as the stability and performance of the detectors during GERDA Phase I are presented. Thirty additional new enriched BEGe-type detectors were produced and will be used in Phase II. A subgroup of these detectors has already been used successfully in GERDA Phase I. The present paper gives an overview of the production chain of the new germanium detectors, the steps taken to minimise the exposure to cosmic radiation during manufacturing, and the first results of characterisation measurements in vacuum cryostats.

Unit Operation Experiment Linking Classroom with Industrial Processing

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Benson, Tracy J.; Richmond, Peyton C.; LeBlanc, Weldon

2013-01-01

An industrial-type distillation column, including appropriate pumps, heat exchangers, and automation, was used as a unit operations experiment to provide a link between classroom teaching and real-world applications. Students were presented with an open-ended experiment where they defined the testing parameters to solve a generalized problem. The…

Meta-analysis of operative experiences of general surgery trainees during training.

PubMed

Elsey, E J; Griffiths, G; Humes, D J; West, J

2017-01-01

General surgical training curricula around the world set defined operative numbers to be achieved before completion of training. However, there are few studies reporting total operative experience in training. This systematic review aimed to quantify the published global operative experience at completion of training in general surgery. Electronic databases were searched systematically for articles in any language relating to operative experience in trainees completing postgraduate general surgical training. Two reviewers independently assessed citations for inclusion using agreed criteria. Studies were assessed for quantitative data in addition to study design and purpose. A meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model of studies with appropriate data. The search resulted in 1979 titles for review. Of these, 24 studies were eligible for inclusion in the review and data from five studies were used in the meta-analysis. Studies with published data of operative experience at completion of surgical training originated from the USA (19), UK (2), the Netherlands (1), Spain (1) and Thailand (1). Mean total operative experience in training varied from 783 procedures in Thailand to 1915 in the UK. Meta-analysis produced a mean pooled estimate of 1366 (95 per cent c.i. 1026 to 1707) procedures per trainee at completion of training. There was marked heterogeneity between studies (I 2  = 99·6 per cent). There is a lack of robust data describing the operative experiences of general surgical trainees outside the USA. The number of surgical procedures performed by general surgeons in training varies considerably across the world. © 2016 The Authors. BJS published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of BJS Society Ltd.

Residence Life Programs and the First-Year Experience. The Freshman Year Experience. Monograph Series No. 5.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zeller, William, Ed.; And Others

This monograph contains papers which suggest means of implementing residential programs, services, and facilities that will help to meet the needs of first-year college students. Fourteen papers are presented and are as follows: "Reflections on the First Year Residential Experience" (John N. Gardner); "The Role of Residential Programs in the…

First Year Experience Course: Insights from the First Two Years

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Erickson, Sheri L.; Stone, Mary F.

2012-01-01

Retention rates of students in a business school Freshman Year Experience (FYE) course were compared to overall University retention rates for two successive years. Slightly higher retention was experienced by the business FYE students than for the University overall. Student responses to exit survey questions were compared to retention activity…

Utilization of operating experience to prevent piping failures at steam plants

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Adams, T.S.; Dietrich, E.B.

1999-11-01

The key to preventing flow-accelerated corrosion (FAC) induced piping failures in steam plants is the development and implementation of a methodical program for assessing plant susceptibility to FAC and managing the effects of FAC. One of the key elements of an effective FAC program is the accurate and comprehensive utilization of plant-specific and industry-wide operating experience. Operating experience should be used to develop the program to identify specific areas for inspection or replacement, and to maintain an effective program. This paper discusses the utilization of operating experience in FAC programs at nuclear power plants, fossil plants and other steam plants.

The University of Colorado OSO-8 spectrometer experiment. IV - Mission operations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hansen, E. R.; Bruner, E. C., Jr.

1979-01-01

The remote operation of two high-resolution ultraviolet spectrometers on the OSO-8 satellite is discussed. Mission operations enabled scientific observers to plan observations based on current solar data, interact with the observing program using real- or near real-time data and commands, evaluate quick-look instrument data, and analyze the observations for publication. During routine operations, experiments were planned a day prior to their execution, and the data from these experiments received a day later. When a shorter turnaround was required, a real-time mode was available. Here, the real-time data and command links into the remote control center were used to evaluate experiment operation and make satellite pointing or instrument configuration changes with a 1-90 minute turnaround.

First year of MINERVA operations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eastman, Jason; Johnson, John Asher; McCrady, Nate; Wright, Jason T.; Wittenmyer, Robert; Wilson, Maurice

2018-01-01

MINERVA is a robotic observatory with four 0.7 meter telescopes at Mt. Hopkins, Arizona, dedicated to precise photometry and radial velocity observations of bright, nearby stars for the discovery and characterization of small exoplanets. Here we give a status report on MINERVA from the first year of operation and a summary of our results and lessons learned. Our results demonstrate that MINERVA is capable of achieving its primary science goal of finding super-Earths around the nearest, brightest stars.

The ATLAS Tier-0: Overview and operational experience

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elsing, Markus; Goossens, Luc; Nairz, Armin; Negri, Guido

2010-04-01

Within the ATLAS hierarchical, multi-tier computing infrastructure, the Tier-0 centre at CERN is mainly responsible for prompt processing of the raw data coming from the online DAQ system, to archive the raw and derived data on tape, to register the data with the relevant catalogues and to distribute them to the associated Tier-1 centers. The Tier-0 is already fully functional. It has been successfully participating in all cosmic and commissioning data taking since May 2007, and was ramped up to its foreseen full size, performance and throughput for the cosmic (and short single-beam) run periods between July and October 2008. Data and work flows for collision data taking were exercised in several "Full Dress Rehearsals" (FDRs) in the course of 2008. The transition from an expert to a shifter-based system was successfully established in July 2008. This article will give an overview of the Tier-0 system, its data and work flows, and operations model. It will review the operational experience gained in cosmic, commissioning, and FDR exercises during the past year. And it will give an outlook on planned developments and the evolution of the system towards first collision data taking expected now in late Autumn 2009.

Surgical treatment of chronic pancreatitis--a 14 years experience.

PubMed

Stroescu, C; Dima, S; Scarlat, A; Ivanov, B; Bouaru, O; Ionescu, M; Vasilescu, C; Popescu, I

2010-01-01

Operative treatment of chronic pancreatitis is indicated for patients with intractable pain after failed medical and endoscopic treatment, or in the presence of complications of the disease. This study evaluates a single-center experience with operative management of chronic pancreatitis over a period of time of 14 years, regarding indication, surgical technique, early and late results. The records of 265 consecutive patients who underwent surgery for chronic pancreatitis between 1995 and 2008 were retrospectively reviewed and analyzed. Long-term outcomes were assessed by patient survey, with a median follow-up of 40 months. 265 patients underwent 275 operations for chronic pancreatitis with the main indication abdominal pain (46.8%), followed by suspected malignancy in 24.8% and recurrent episodes of acute pancreatitis in 18.6%. Resection procedures 54.5% (150), drainage procedures 1.09% (3), bypass and denervation procedures 44.36% (122) and exploratory laparotomy 3.27% (9) were performed with an overall morbidity of 22% and an in-hospital mortality rate of 2.64%. After a median follow-up of 40 months survival information was available for 137 patients (51.69%) with a 5-and actuarial survival rate of 74.7% and quality of life improvement in most patients, especially in the resected group. Our results suggest that in chronic pancreatitis the type of surgery has to be individualized in each patient (resection VS drainage) and organ preserving operations are safe and effective in providing long-term pain relief and in treating CP-related complications

Implementation of a near-zero fluoroscopy approach in interventional electrophysiology: impact of operator experience.

PubMed

Wannagat, Severin; Loehr, Lena; Lask, Sebastian; Völk, Katharina; Karaköse, Tamer; Özcelik, Cemil; Mügge, Andreas; Wutzler, Alexander

2018-04-01

Catheter ablation is performed under fluoroscopic guidance. Reduction of radiation dose for patients and staff is emphasized by current recommendations. Previous studies have shown that lower operator experience leads to increased radiation dose. On the other hand, less experienced operators may depend even more on fluoroscopic guidance. Our study aimed to evaluate feasibility and efficacy of a non-fluoroscopic approach in different training levels. From January 2017, a near-zero fluoroscopy approach was established in two centers. Four operators (beginner, 1st year fellow, 2nd year fellow, expert) were instructed to perform the complete procedure with the use of a 3-D mapping system without fluoroscopy. A historical cohort that underwent procedures with fluoroscopy use served as control group. Dose area product (DPA), procedure duration, acute procedural success, and complications were compared between the groups and for each operator. Procedures were performed in 157 patients. The first 100 patients underwent procedures with fluoroscopic guidance, the following 57 procedures were performed with the near-zero fluoroscopy approach. The results show a significant reduction in DPA for all operators immediately after implementation of the near-zero fluoroscopy protocol (control 637 ± 611 μGy/m 2 ; beginner 44.1 ± 79.5 μGy/m 2 , p = 0.002; 1st year fellow 24.3 ± 46.4.5 μGy/m 2 , p = 0.001; 2nd year fellow 130.3 ± 233.3 μGy/m 2 , p = 0.003; expert 9.3 ± 37.4 μGy/m 2 , P < 0.001). Procedure duration, acute success, and complications were not significantly different between the groups. Our results show a 90% reduction of DPA shortly after implementation of a near-zero fluoroscopy approach in interventional electrophysiology even in operators in training.

The Role of Peer Advising in the First-Year Experience

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kuba, Sarah E.

2010-01-01

For more than 35 years, the first-year experience movement has been working to improve the first-year experience for freshmen and decrease first-year and subsequent dropout rates. The purpose of this study is to examine student perceptions of the role of peer advising in the first-year experience. Through emphasis on support, involvement, and…

A 35-year experience with syndromic cleft palate repair: operative outcomes and long-term speech function.

PubMed

Basta, Marten N; Silvestre, Jason; Stransky, Carrie; Solot, Cynthia; Cohen, Marilyn; McDonald-McGinn, Donna; Zackai, Elaine; Kirschner, Richard; Low, David W; Randall, Peter; LaRossa, Don; Jackson, Oksana A

2014-12-01

Associated comorbidities can put syndromic patients with cleft palate at risk for poor speech outcomes. Reported rates of velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) vary from 8% to 64%, and need for secondary VPI surgery from 23% to 64%, with few studies providing long-term follow-up. The purpose of this study was to describe our institutional long-term experience with syndromic patients undergoing cleft palatoplasty. A retrospective review was conducted of all patients with syndromic diagnoses undergoing primary Furlow palatoplasty from 1975 to 2011. Outcomes included postoperative oronasal fistula (ONF) and need for secondary VPI surgery. Speech scores for verbal patients 5 years or older were collected via the Pittsburgh scale for speech assessment. Aggregate scores categorized the velopharyngeal mechanism as competent, borderline, or incompetent. Outcomes were analyzed by patient and operative factors. One hundred thirty-two patients were included with average age at repair of 20.7 months. Cleft type was 9% submucosal, 16% Veau class I, 50% class II, 12% class III, and 13% class IV. Forty-five syndromes were recorded, most commonly Stickler syndrome (n = 32) and 22q11.2 deletion syndrome [22q11.2DS (n = 19)]. Forty-four patients also had associated Pierre Robin sequence (PRS). The overall ONF rate was 4.5% and was highest in Veau class IV clefts (P = 0.048). Seventy-six patients were included in speech analysis, with an average age at last assessment of 10.4 years. Overall, 60.5% of patients had a competent velopharyngeal mechanism, 23.7% borderline, and 15.8% incompetent mechanism. Fifty percent of 22q11.2DS patients had borderline speech and none had competent speech, compared to 73.3% with Stickler syndrome (P = 0.01) and 71.4% of patients with associated PRS (P = 0.02). Secondary VPI surgery was performed in 11.4% of patients overall. Patients with PRS (13.6%) and with Stickler syndrome (15.6%) had secondary VPI surgery, compared to 31.6% of patients with 22q11.2DS

CTS (Hermes): United States experiments and operations summary

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Donoughe, P. L.; Hunczak, H. R.

1977-01-01

The Communications Technology Satellite, launched in January 1976 and embodying the highest power transmitter in a communications satellite, was considered. As a joint program between the U.S. and Canada, close coordination of the two countries was necessitated since the management and control of experiments were done in real time. Criteria used by NASA for acceptance of the United States experiments are noted and acceptance procedures are discussed. The category for each accepted experiment is given. The modus operandi employed for the U.S. experiments in the areas of management, coordination, liaison, and real time operation are described. Some of the highlights associated with satellite utilization are given.

Gain monitoring of telescope array photomultiplier cameras for the first 4 years of operation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shin, B. K.; Tokuno, H.; Tsunesada, Y.; Abu-Zayyad, T.; Aida, R.; Allen, M.; Anderson, R.; Azuma, R.; Barcikowski, E.; Belz, J. W.; Bergman, D. R.; Blake, S. A.; Cady, R.; Cheon, B. G.; Chiba, J.; Chikawa, M.; Cho, E. J.; Cho, W. R.; Fujii, H.; Fujii, T.; Fukuda, T.; Fukushima, M.; Hanlon, W.; Hayashi, K.; Hayashi, Y.; Hayashida, N.; Hibino, K.; Hiyama, K.; Honda, K.; Iguchi, T.; Ikeda, D.; Ikuta, K.; Inoue, N.; Ishii, T.; Ishimori, R.; Ivanov, D.; Iwamoto, S.; Jui, C. C. H.; Kadota, K.; Kakimoto, F.; Kalashev, O.; Kanbe, T.; Kasahara, K.; Kawai, H.; Kawakami, S.; Kawana, S.; Kido, E.; Kim, H. B.; Kim, H. K.; Kim, J. H.; Kim, J. H.; Kitamoto, K.; Kitamura, S.; Kitamura, Y.; Kobayashi, K.; Kobayashi, Y.; Kondo, Y.; Kuramoto, K.; Kuzmin, V.; Kwon, Y. J.; Lim, S. I.; Machida, S.; Martens, K.; Martineau, J.; Matsuda, T.; Matsuura, T.; Matsuyama, T.; Matthews, J. N.; Myers, I.; Minamino, M.; Miyata, K.; Murano, Y.; Nagasawa, K.; Nagataki, S.; Nakamura, T.; Nam, S. W.; Nonaka, T.; Ogio, S.; Ohnishi, M.; Ohoka, H.; Oki, K.; Oku, D.; Okuda, T.; Oshima, A.; Ozawa, S.; Park, I. H.; Pshirkov, M. S.; Rodriguez, D. C.; Roh, S. Y.; Rubtsov, G.; Ryu, D.; Sagawa, H.; Sakurai, N.; Sampson, A. L.; Scott, L. M.; Shah, P. D.; Shibata, F.; Shibata, T.; Shimodaira, H.; Shin, J. I.; Shirahama, T.; Smith, J. D.; Sokolsky, P.; Sonley, T. J.; Springer, R. W.; Stokes, B. T.; Stratton, S. R.; Stroman, T.; Suzuki, S.; Takahashi, Y.; Takeda, M.; Taketa, A.; Takita, M.; Tameda, Y.; Tanaka, H.; Tanaka, K.; Tanaka, M.; Thomas, S. B.; Thomson, G. B.; Tinyakov, P.; Tkachev, I.; Tomida, T.; Troitsky, S.; Tsutsumi, K.; Tsuyuguchi, Y.; Uchihori, Y.; Udo, S.; Ukai, H.; Vasiloff, G.; Wada, Y.; Wong, T.; Wood, M.; Yamakawa, Y.; Yamane, R.; Yamaoka, H.; Yamazaki, K.; Yang, J.; Yoneda, Y.; Yoshida, S.; Yoshii, H.; Zhou, X.; Zollinger, R.; Zundel, Z.

2014-12-01

The stability of the gain of the photomultiplier (PMT) camera for the Fluorescence Detector (FD) of the Telescope Array experiment was monitored using an 241Am loaded scintillator pulsers (YAP) and a diffused xenon flasher (TXF) for a selected set of 35 PMT-readout channels. From the monitoring of YAP pulses over four years of FD operation, we found slow monotonic drifts of PMT gains at a rate of -1.7 +1.7%/year. An average of the PMT gains over the 35 channels stayed nearly constant with a rate of change measured at -0.01±0.31(stat)±0.21(sys)%/year. No systematic decrease of the PMT gain caused by the night sky background was observed. Monitoring by the TXF also tracked the PMT gain drift of the YAP at 0.88±0.14(stat)%/year.

42 CFR 412.71 - Determination of base-year inpatient operating costs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 42 Public Health 2 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Determination of base-year inpatient operating... Costs § 412.71 Determination of base-year inpatient operating costs. (a) Base-year costs. (1) For each... before September 30, 1983 is for less than 12 months, the base period will be the hospital's most recent...

42 CFR 412.71 - Determination of base-year inpatient operating costs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 42 Public Health 2 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Determination of base-year inpatient operating... Costs § 412.71 Determination of base-year inpatient operating costs. (a) Base-year costs. (1) For each... before September 30, 1983 is for less than 12 months, the base period will be the hospital's most recent...

42 CFR 412.71 - Determination of base-year inpatient operating costs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 42 Public Health 2 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Determination of base-year inpatient operating... Costs § 412.71 Determination of base-year inpatient operating costs. (a) Base-year costs. (1) For each... before September 30, 1983 is for less than 12 months, the base period will be the hospital's most recent...

Precision operation of the Nova laser for fusion experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Caird, J. A.; Ehrlich, R. B.; Hermes, G. L.; Landen, O. L.; Laumann, C. W.; Lerche, R. A.; Miller, J. L.; Murray, J. E.; Nielsen, N. D.; Powell, H. T.; Rushford, M. C.; Saunders, R. L.; Thompson, C. E.; VanArsdall, P. J.; Vann, C. S.; Weiland, T. L.

1994-10-01

The operation of a Neodymium glass laser of a special design for fusion experiments is improved by a better pulse synchronization, the gain stabilization, and the laser diagnostics. We used sensor upgrading and antifriction coating of focusing lenses. The pointing accuracy of the Nova laser meets now our goal for precision operation. (AIP)

International Co-Operation in Control Engineering Education Using Online Experiments

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Henry, Jim; Schaedel, Herbert M.

2005-01-01

This paper describes the international co-operation experience in teaching control engineering with laboratories being conducted remotely by students via the Internet. This paper describes how the students ran the experiments and their personal experiences with the laboratory. A tool for process identification and controller tuning based on…

SIMPLIFIED GASTRIC BYPASS: 13 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE AND 12,000 PATIENTS OPERATED

PubMed Central

RAMOS, Almino Cardoso; SILVA, Andrey Carlo Sousa; RAMOS, Manoela Galvão; CANSECO, Edwin Gonzalo Claros; GALVÃO-NETO, Manoel dos Passos; MENEZES, Mariano de Almeida; GALVÃO, Thales Delmondes; BASTOS, Eduardo Lemos de Souza

2014-01-01

Background Obesity is increasingly prevalent disease worldwide and bariatric surgery is the most effective treatment for the most severe cases. The Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is still the most used technique all over the world and the laparoscopic approach has been preferred by surgeons with different approaches, propositions and techniques in performing the procedure. Aim To report the surgical aspects of the systematization and results of the simplified laparoscopic gastric bypass (Brazilian technique). Methods Were included all patients undergoing this procedure from January 2001 to July 2014; were described and analyzed aspects of this technique, the systematization and complications associated with the procedure. Results A total of 12,000 patients (72% women) were included, with a mean age of 43 years (14-76) and a mean BMI of 44.5 (35-90 kg/m2). Mean total operative time was 72 minutes (36-270) and the mean hospital stay was 36 hours. There were 303 cases of gastrojejunostomy stenosis (2.5%), 370 patients had gastrointestinal bleeding (3%) with only one lap revision due to a enteroanastomosis bleeding and six revisions related to intestinal obstruction caused by impacted clots in the jejunojenunostomy. Blood transfusion was needed in 32 patients (0.3%); Petersen hernia was diagnosed in 18 (0.15%) and digestive fistula in 54 (0.45%), which led to reoperation in 43 of them (67%). The overall mortality was 0.1% (fistula with sepsis=8, pulmonary thromboembolism=3; intestinal obstruction associated with sepsis=1). Conclusion The simplified laparoscopic gastric bypass is a feasible and safe option with low complication rate and easy reproducibility for education and training in bariatric surgery. PMID:25409956

Parabolic dish test site: History and operating experience

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Selcuk, M. K. (Compiler)

1985-01-01

The parabolic dish test site (PDTS) was established for testing point-focusing solar concentrator systems operating at temperatures approaching 1650 C. Among tests run were evaluation and performance characterization of parabolic dish concentrators, receivers, power conversion units, and solar/fossil-fuel hybrid systems. The PDTS was fully operational until its closure in June, 1984. The evolution of the test program, a chronological listing of the experiments run, and data summaries for most of the tests conducted are presented.

On the hitchhiker Robot Operated Materials Processing System: Experiment data system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kizhner, Semion; Jenstrom, Del

1995-01-01

The Space Shuttle Discovery STS-64 mission carried the first American autonomous robot into space, the Robot Operated Materials Processing System (ROMPS). On this mission ROMPS was the only Hitchhiker experiment and had a unique opportunity to utilize all Hitchhiker space carrier capabilities. ROMPS conducted rapid thermal processing of the one hundred semiconductor material samples to study how micro gravity affects the resulting material properties. The experiment was designed, built and operated by a small GSFC team in cooperation with industry and university based principal investigators who provided the material samples and data interpretation. ROMPS' success presents some valuable lessons in such cooperation, as well as in the utilization of the Hitchhiker carrier for complex applications. The motivation of this paper is to share these lessons with the scientific community interested in attached payload experiments. ROMPS has a versatile and intelligent material processing control data system. This paper uses the ROMPS data system as the guiding thread to present the ROMPS mission experience. It presents an overview of the ROMPS experiment followed by considerations of the flight and ground data subsystems and their architecture, data products generation during mission operations, and post mission data utilization. It then presents the lessons learned from the development and operation of the ROMPS data system as well as those learned during post-flight data processing.

Analysing the operative experience of basic surgical trainees in Ireland using a web-based logbook

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background There is concern about the adequacy of operative exposure in surgical training programmes, in the context of changing work practices. We aimed to quantify the operative exposure of all trainees on the National Basic Surgical Training (BST) programme in Ireland and compare the results with arbitrary training targets. Methods Retrospective analysis of data obtained from a web-based logbook (http://www.elogbook.org) for all general surgery and orthopaedic training posts between July 2007 and June 2009. Results 104 trainees recorded 23,918 operations between two 6-month general surgery posts. The most common general surgery operation performed was simple skin excision with trainees performing an average of 19.7 (± 9.9) over the 2-year training programme. Trainees most frequently assisted with cholecystectomy with an average of 16.0 (± 11.0) per trainee. Comparison of trainee operative experience to arbitrary training targets found that 2-38% of trainees achieved the targets for 9 emergency index operations and 24-90% of trainees achieved the targets for 8 index elective operations. 72 trainees also completed a 6-month post in orthopaedics and recorded 7,551 operations. The most common orthopaedic operation that trainees performed was removal of metal, with an average of 2.90 (± 3.27) per trainee. The most common orthopaedic operation that trainees assisted with was total hip replacement, with an average of 10.46 (± 6.21) per trainee. Conclusions A centralised web-based logbook provides valuable data to analyse training programme performance. Analysis of logbooks raises concerns about operative experience at junior trainee level. The provision of adequate operative exposure for trainees should be a key performance indicator for training programmes. PMID:21943313

The Drop Tower Bremen -Experiment Operation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Könemann, Thorben; von Kampen, Peter; Rath, Hans J.

The idea behind the drop tower facility of the Center of Applied Space Technology and Micro-gravity (ZARM) in Bremen is to provide an inimitable technical opportunity of a daily access to short-term weightlessness on earth. In this way ZARM`s european unique ground-based microgravity laboratory displays an excellent economic alternative for research in space-related conditions at low costs comparable to orbital platforms. Many national and international ex-perimentalists motivated by these prospects decide to benefit from the high-quality and easy accessible microgravity environment only provided by the Drop Tower Bremen. Corresponding experiments in reduced gravity could open new perspectives of investigation methods and give scientists an impressive potential for a future technology and multidisciplinary applications on different research fields like Fundamental Physics, Astrophysics, Fluid Dynamics, Combus-tion, Material Science, Chemistry and Biology. Generally, realizing microgravity experiments at ZARM`s drop tower facility meet new requirements of the experimental hardware and may lead to some technical constraints in the setups. In any case the ZARM Drop Tower Operation and Service Company (ZARM FAB mbH) maintaining the drop tower facility is prepared to as-sist experimentalists by offering own air-conditioned laboratories, clean rooms, workshops and consulting engineers, as well as scientific personal. Furthermore, ZARM`s on-site apartment can be used for accommodations during the experiment campaigns. In terms of approaching drop tower experimenting, consulting of experimentalists is mandatory to successfully accomplish the pursued drop or catapult capsule experiment. For this purpose there will be a lot of expertise and help given by ZARM FAB mbH in strong cooperation to-gether with the experimentalists. However, in comparison to standard laboratory setups the drop or catapult capsule setup seems to be completely different at first view. While defining a

The Applied Meteorology Unit: Nineteen Years Successfully Transitioning Research into Operations for America's Space Program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Madura, John T.; Bauman, William H.; Merceret, Francis J.; Roeder, William P.; Brody, Frank C.; Hagemeyer, Bartlett C.

2010-01-01

The Applied Meteorology Unit (AMU) provides technology transition and technique development to improve operational weather support to the Space Shuttle and the entire American space program. The AMU is funded and managed by NASA and operated by a contractor that provides five meteorologists with a diverse mix of advanced degrees, operational experience, and associated skills including data processing, statistics, and the development of graphical user interfaces. The AMU's primary customers are the U.S. Air Force 45th Weather Squadron at Patrick Air Force Base, the National Weather Service Spaceflight Meteorology Group at NASA Johnson Space Center, and the National Weather Service Melbourne FL Forecast Office. The AMU has transitioned research into operations for nineteen years and worked on a wide range of topics, including new forecasting techniques for lightning probability, synoptic peak winds,.convective winds, and summer severe weather; satellite tools to predict anvil cloud trajectories and evaluate camera line of sight for Space Shuttle launch; optimized radar scan strategies; evaluated and implemented local numerical models; evaluated weather sensors; and many more. The AMU has completed 113 projects with 5 more scheduled to be completed by the end of 2010. During this rich history, the AMU and its customers have learned many lessons on how to effectively transition research into operations. Some of these lessons learned include collocating with the operational customer and periodically visiting geographically separated customers, operator submitted projects, consensus tasking process, use of operator primary advocates for each project, customer AMU liaisons with experience in both operations and research, flexibility in adapting the project plan based on lessons learned during the project, and incorporating training and other transition assistance into the project plans. Operator involvement has been critical to the AMU's remarkable success and many awards

International Perspectives on the First-Year Experience in Higher Education. The First-Year Experience Monograph Series No. 52

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nutt, Diane, Ed.; Calderon, Denis, Ed.

2009-01-01

Students around the globe have unique first-year experiences but struggle with many of the same challenges. This monograph focuses on their journeys and provides insights for educators interested in learning about how institutions across the globe provide supports to students dealing with first-year transition issues. Based on the successful…

STO-2: Support for 4th Year Operations, Recovery, and Science ASU Co-I

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Groppi, Christopher

This is a Co-Investigator proposal for "STO-2: Support for 4th Year Operations, Recovery, and Science" with Prof. Christopher K. Walker (University of Arizona) as PI. As a participant in the STO-2 mission, ASU will participate in instrument design and construction, mission I&T, flight operations and data analysis. ASU has unique capabilities in the field of direct metal micromachining, which it will bring to bear on the STO-2 cold optical assembly, flight mixers and LO hardware. In addition, our extensive experience with receiver integration and test will supplement the capabilities of the PI institution during the I&T phase at the University of Arizona, CSBF (Palestine, TX) and in Antarctica. Both the ASU PI and student will also participate in data analysis and publication after the flight.

The Elon Gap Experience: A Transformative First-Year Experience

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Morrison, Stephen T.; Burr, Katherine H.; Waters, Rexford A.; Hall, Eric E.

2016-01-01

The Elon Gap Experience (EGE) was conceived out of Elon University's most recent strategic plan, the Elon Commitment (Elon University, 2009). One theme calls for "strategic and innovative pathways in undergraduate and graduate education," specifically "to launch a service program as part of a gap-year program" (Elon University,…

Operating experience feedback report: New plants, Commercial power reactors

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Dennig, R.L.; O'Reilly, P.D.

1987-07-01

This report documents a detailed review of the cause of unplanned events during the early months of licensed operation for plants licensed between March 1983 and April 1986. The major lessons and corrective actions that appear to have the greatest potential for improving the effectiveness of plant startups are provided for consideration through the operating experience feedback programs and activities of the industry and the NRC staff.

Guidelines for Evaluating...The First-Year Experience at Four-Year Colleges. 2nd Edition.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gardner, John N.; Barefoot, Betsy O.; Swing, Randy L.

This booklet contains a blueprint of questions that can be used at public and private four-year colleges and universities by an institution-wide task force examining the first-year experience or the broader campus experience. The blueprint can also be used to aid in an overall process of campus self-study or assessment. The questions a task force…

Synthetic Vision Systems - Operational Considerations Simulation Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kramer, Lynda J.; Williams, Steven P.; Bailey, Randall E.; Glaab, Louis J.

2007-01-01

Synthetic vision is a computer-generated image of the external scene topography that is generated from aircraft attitude, high-precision navigation information, and data of the terrain, obstacles, cultural features, and other required flight information. A synthetic vision system (SVS) enhances this basic functionality with real-time integrity to ensure the validity of the databases, perform obstacle detection and independent navigation accuracy verification, and provide traffic surveillance. Over the last five years, NASA and its industry partners have developed and deployed SVS technologies for commercial, business, and general aviation aircraft which have been shown to provide significant improvements in terrain awareness and reductions in the potential for Controlled-Flight-Into-Terrain incidents/accidents compared to current generation cockpit technologies. It has been hypothesized that SVS displays can greatly improve the safety and operational flexibility of flight in Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC) to a level comparable to clear-day Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC), regardless of actual weather conditions or time of day. An experiment was conducted to evaluate SVS and SVS-related technologies as well as the influence of where the information is provided to the pilot (e.g., on a Head-Up or Head-Down Display) for consideration in defining landing minima based upon aircraft and airport equipage. The "operational considerations" evaluated under this effort included reduced visibility, decision altitudes, and airport equipage requirements, such as approach lighting systems, for SVS-equipped aircraft. Subjective results from the present study suggest that synthetic vision imagery on both head-up and head-down displays may offer benefits in situation awareness; workload; and approach and landing performance in the visibility levels, approach lighting systems, and decision altitudes tested.

Synthetic vision systems: operational considerations simulation experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kramer, Lynda J.; Williams, Steven P.; Bailey, Randall E.; Glaab, Louis J.

2007-04-01

Synthetic vision is a computer-generated image of the external scene topography that is generated from aircraft attitude, high-precision navigation information, and data of the terrain, obstacles, cultural features, and other required flight information. A synthetic vision system (SVS) enhances this basic functionality with real-time integrity to ensure the validity of the databases, perform obstacle detection and independent navigation accuracy verification, and provide traffic surveillance. Over the last five years, NASA and its industry partners have developed and deployed SVS technologies for commercial, business, and general aviation aircraft which have been shown to provide significant improvements in terrain awareness and reductions in the potential for Controlled-Flight-Into-Terrain incidents / accidents compared to current generation cockpit technologies. It has been hypothesized that SVS displays can greatly improve the safety and operational flexibility of flight in Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC) to a level comparable to clear-day Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC), regardless of actual weather conditions or time of day. An experiment was conducted to evaluate SVS and SVS-related technologies as well as the influence of where the information is provided to the pilot (e.g., on a Head-Up or Head-Down Display) for consideration in defining landing minima based upon aircraft and airport equipage. The "operational considerations" evaluated under this effort included reduced visibility, decision altitudes, and airport equipage requirements, such as approach lighting systems, for SVS-equipped aircraft. Subjective results from the present study suggest that synthetic vision imagery on both head-up and head-down displays may offer benefits in situation awareness; workload; and approach and landing performance in the visibility levels, approach lighting systems, and decision altitudes tested.

Impact of the European Working Time Directive (EWTD) on the operative experience of surgery residents.

PubMed

Hopmans, Cornelis J; den Hoed, Pieter T; van der Laan, Lijckle; van der Harst, Erwin; van der Elst, Maarten; Mannaerts, Guido H H; Dawson, Imro; Timman, Reinier; Wijnhoven, Bas P L; IJzermans, Jan N M

2015-04-01

In Europe and the United States, work hour restrictions are considered to be particularly burdensome for residents in surgery specialties. The aim of this study was to examine whether reduction of the work week to 48 hours resulting from the implementation of the European Working Time Directive has affected the operative experience of surgery residents. This study was conducted in a general surgery training region in the Netherlands, consisting of 1 university hospital and 6 district training hospitals. Operating records summarizing the surgical procedures performed as "primary surgeon" in the operating theater for different grades of surgeons were retrospectively analyzed for the period 2005-2012 by the use of linear regression models. Operative procedures performed by residents were considered the main outcome measure. In total, 235,357 operative procedures were performed, including 47,458 (20.2%) in the university hospital and 187,899 (79.8%) in the district training hospitals (n = 5). For residents in the university hospital, the mean number of operative procedures performed per 1.0 full-time equivalent increased from 128 operations in 2005 to 204 operations in 2012 (P = .001), whereas for residents in district training hospitals, no substantial differences were found over time. The mean (±SD) operative caseload of 64 residents who completed the 6-year training program between 2005 and 2012 was 1,391 ± 226 (range, 768-1856). A comparison of the operative caseload according to year of board-certification showed no difference. Implementation of the European Working Time Directive has not affected adversely the number of surgical procedures performed by residents within a general surgical training region in the Netherlands. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

First Year Experience Courses. What Works Clearinghouse Intervention Report

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

What Works Clearinghouse, 2016

2016-01-01

Based on four studies that meet WWC group design standards, "first year experience courses" were found to have potentially positive effects on credit accumulation, degree attainment (college), and general academic achievement (college) for freshman college students. "First year experience courses", often referred to as college…

Operational Experience with the MICE Spectrometer Solenoid System

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Feher, Sandor; Bross, Alan; Hanlet, Pierrick

The Muon Ionization Cooling Experiment located at Rutherford Appleton Laboratory in England utilizes a supercon-ducting solenoid system for the muon cooling channel that also holds particle tracking detectors and muon absorbers inside their bores. The solenoid system installation was completed in summer of 2015 and after commissioning the system it has been running successfully. As a result, this paper summarizes the commissioning results and operational experience with the magnets focusing on the per-formance of the two Spectrometer Solenoids built by the US.

Operational Experience with the MICE Spectrometer Solenoid System

DOE PAGES

Feher, Sandor; Bross, Alan; Hanlet, Pierrick

2018-01-11

The Muon Ionization Cooling Experiment located at Rutherford Appleton Laboratory in England utilizes a supercon-ducting solenoid system for the muon cooling channel that also holds particle tracking detectors and muon absorbers inside their bores. The solenoid system installation was completed in summer of 2015 and after commissioning the system it has been running successfully. As a result, this paper summarizes the commissioning results and operational experience with the magnets focusing on the per-formance of the two Spectrometer Solenoids built by the US.

45 CFR 158.231 - Life-years used to determine credible experience.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 45 Public Welfare 1 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Life-years used to determine credible experience... and Providing the Rebate § 158.231 Life-years used to determine credible experience. (a) The life-years used to determine the credibility of an issuer's experience are the life-years for the MLR...

45 CFR 158.231 - Life-years used to determine credible experience.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 45 Public Welfare 1 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Life-years used to determine credible experience... and Providing the Rebate § 158.231 Life-years used to determine credible experience. (a) The life-years used to determine the credibility of an issuer's experience are the life-years for the MLR...

Telescience operations with the solar array module plasma interaction experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wald, Lawrence W.; Bibyk, Irene K.

1995-01-01

The Solar Array Module Plasma Interactions Experiment (SAMPIE) is a flight experiment that flew on the Space Shuttle Columbia (STS-62) in March 1994, as part of the OAST-2 mission. The overall objective of SAMPIE was to determine the adverse environmental interactions within the space plasma of low earth orbit (LEO) on modern solar cells and space power system materials which are artificially biased to high positive and negative direct current (DC) voltages. The two environmental interactions of interest included high voltage arcing from the samples to the space plasma and parasitic current losses. High voltage arcing can cause physical damage to power system materials and shorten expected hardware life. parasitic current losses can reduce power system efficiency because electric currents generated in a power system drain into the surrounding plasma via parasitic resistance. The flight electronics included two programmable high voltage DC power supplies to bias the experiment samples, instruments to measure the surrounding plasma environment in the STS cargo bay, and the on-board data acquisition system (DAS). The DAS provided in-flight experiment control, data storage, and communications through the Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) Hitchhiker flight avionics to the GSFC Payload Operations Control Center (POCC). The DAS and the SAMPIE POCC computer systems were designed for telescience operations; this paper will focus on the experiences of the SAMPIE team regarding telescience development and operations from the GSFC POCC during STS-62. The SAMPIE conceptual development, hardware design, and system verification testing were accomplished at the NASA Lewis Research Center (LeRC). SAMPIE was developed under the In-Space Technology Experiment Program (IN-STEP), which sponsors NASA, industry, and university flight experiments designed to enable and enhance space flight technology. The IN-STEP Program is sponsored by the Office of Space Access and Technology (OSAT).

Experience and confidence of final year veterinary students in performing desexing surgeries.

PubMed

Gates, M C; Odom, T F; Sawicki, R K

2018-07-01

To describe the level of experience and confidence of veterinary students in performing canine and feline desexing procedures at the end of their final clinical year. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with veterinary students at Massey University in November 2017 after completion of their final clinical year. The questions included career plans after graduation, number of assisted and unassisted desexing procedures performed, approximate time to complete desexing surgeries, level of confidence with different aspects of desexing surgeries, what aspects of their desexing surgery training were most helpful, and what could be done to improve training in desexing surgical skills in veterinary school. The survey was completed by 70/95 (74%) students in their final clinical year. Among respondents, 55/70 (70%) had performed >2 unassisted feline neuters before graduation. However 38/70 (54%) students had never performed an unassisted feline spay, 31/70 (44%) had never performed an unassisted canine neuter, and 44/70 (63%) students had never performed an unassisted canine spay. The median reported times to complete a feline neuter, feline spay, canine neuter, and canine spay were 9, 40, 30 and 60 minutes, respectively. The median level of confidence for these procedures were 9, 6, 7 and 5 (on a scale from 1=least confident to 10=most confident), respectively. The reported time to complete procedures and the confidence in performing procedures did not change markedly with increasing total number of procedures performed. Students were most concerned about their ability to perform the desexing procedures in a reasonable amount of time and to prevent post-operative bleeding from occurring. Students were least concerned with their ability to manage post-operative pain in patients and to select the appropriate suture material. Free-text comments revealed that 62/70 (89%) students wanted more hands-on surgical experience prior to graduation. Many students are currently

First year operation at New York Power Authority`s 150 MW Richard M. Flynn Combined Cycle Power Station

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Medvec, M.D.; Rosen, V.

1995-12-31

In 1990, New York Power Authority (NYPA), was selected to provide 150 MW of electrical power to Long Island Lighting Company (LILCO), using a combined gas and steam turbine cycle. The gas turbine chosen was a Siemens V84.2 with a design ISO rating of 103 MW. NYPA, acting as an independent power producer, would build, operate and maintain the facility. The power plant would be dispatched by LILCO for a period of twenty years from the beginning of its commercial operation on May 1, 1994. The construction was completed in 20 months and the unit started commercial operation on schedule.more » The formal performance acceptance tests, conducted in June 1994, indicated a better net output power and a lower net heart rate than the guaranteed figures for operation with natural gas and light distillate as the backup fuel. Stack emissions compliance tests conducted in October 1995, successfully demonstrated NOx emissions of 9 ppmvd (15% O{sub 2}) for dry combustion of natural gas. In its first year of operation the plant achieved a rolling average equivalent availability rate (EAF) of 94.6%; NYPA`s target is 90.42% for a twenty year contract term. This article will review Siemens NOx abatement technology to obtain single digit emissions and describe the operational experience with the dry low NOx system at the Richard M. Flynn Power Plant.« less

The national vocational education plan for unqualified young people (16?18 years old): The French experience (1982?1984)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Colardyn, Danielle; Malglaive, Gerard

1986-12-01

In 1982, the French Government instituted a new National Vocational Education Plan (NVEP) to combat the nationwide problem of students leaving the school system prior to receiving adequate vocational preparation. This plan affects 100,000 young people between the ages of 16 and 18 years. The NVEP gave to each Regional Government the opportunity to create its own programmes and curricula; it renewed counselling and individual assessment facilities; it established new tracks within the education system; it also established co-operative education (linking education to the world of work). Concurrently, an Assessment and Observation System was created. During the first assessment year (1982-1983), information was gathered about existing local educational resources, counselling facilities, characteristics of the 16 to 18 year-old population, functioning of the educational tracks and co-operative education system. During the second year (1983-1984), the assessment provided quantitative statistical results. The most striking result concerns the configurations of educational and employment experiences which seemed to determine the ability of students to find employment. Students with a background of `job intensive experiences' were more successful in finding subsequent employment than those without. Students with `education intensive experiences' entered an educational programme because they were unable to find a first job. While the benefits of the NVEP were not immediately apparent, it nevertheless became evident that at this level of training, education was not necessarily the royal road to employment. However, employment criteria cannot be the only way to assess a vocational education system.

Operational Experience with the Frontier System in CMS

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Blumenfeld, Barry; Dykstra, Dave; Kreuzer, Peter

2012-06-20

The Frontier framework is used in the CMS experiment at the LHC to deliver conditions data to processing clients worldwide, including calibration, alignment, and configuration information. Each central server at CERN, called a Frontier Launchpad, uses tomcat as a servlet container to establish the communication between clients and the central Oracle database. HTTP-proxy Squid servers, located close to clients, cache the responses to queries in order to provide high performance data access and to reduce the load on the central Oracle database. Each Frontier Launchpad also has its own reverse-proxy Squid for caching. The three central servers have been deliveringmore » about 5 million responses every day since the LHC startup, containing about 40 GB data in total, to more than one hundred Squid servers located worldwide, with an average response time on the order of 10 milliseconds. The Squid caches deployed worldwide process many more requests per day, over 700 million, and deliver over 40 TB of data. Several monitoring tools of the tomcat log files, the accesses of the Squids on the central Launchpad servers, and the availability of remote Squids have been developed to guarantee the performance of the service and make the system easily maintainable. Following a brief introduction of the Frontier framework, we describe the performance of this highly reliable and stable system, detail monitoring concerns and their deployment, and discuss the overall operational experience from the first two years of LHC data-taking.« less

Operational Experience with the Frontier System in CMS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Blumenfeld, Barry; Dykstra, Dave; Kreuzer, Peter; Du, Ran; Wang, Weizhen

2012-12-01

The Frontier framework is used in the CMS experiment at the LHC to deliver conditions data to processing clients worldwide, including calibration, alignment, and configuration information. Each central server at CERN, called a Frontier Launchpad, uses tomcat as a servlet container to establish the communication between clients and the central Oracle database. HTTP-proxy Squid servers, located close to clients, cache the responses to queries in order to provide high performance data access and to reduce the load on the central Oracle database. Each Frontier Launchpad also has its own reverse-proxy Squid for caching. The three central servers have been delivering about 5 million responses every day since the LHC startup, containing about 40 GB data in total, to more than one hundred Squid servers located worldwide, with an average response time on the order of 10 milliseconds. The Squid caches deployed worldwide process many more requests per day, over 700 million, and deliver over 40 TB of data. Several monitoring tools of the tomcat log files, the accesses of the Squids on the central Launchpad servers, and the availability of remote Squids have been developed to guarantee the performance of the service and make the system easily maintainable. Following a brief introduction of the Frontier framework, we describe the performance of this highly reliable and stable system, detail monitoring concerns and their deployment, and discuss the overall operational experience from the first two years of LHC data-taking.

Bronchial adenoma: review of 18-year experience at the Brompton Hospital.

PubMed Central

Lawson, R M; Ramanathan, L; Hurley, G; Hinson, K W; Lennox, S C

1976-01-01

Continued uncertainty about the prognosis for patients with bronchial adenomata led to a review of the experience of this condition in the Brompton Hospital. Of 72 patients seen between January 1955 and December 1972, 39 were women and 33 men, mean age 45 years, range 9-73 years. The commonest presenting symptoms were haemoptysis, cough, sputum, and repeated chest infections. Positive bronchoscopic biopsy occurred in 35 of 43 cases; five of these were originally reported as carcinomata, of oat-cell type in four. Plain chest film abnormality occurred in 69 patients. Seventy-three operative procedures comprised two endoscopic removals, two wedge resections, six bronchotomies, five pneumonectomies, and 58 lobectomies (seven with sleeve resection). Recurrence in three of six bronchotomies--two with adenoid cystic carcinomata (cylindromata)--necessitated further surgery. Lobectomy and lymph node dissection is usually the operation of choice. Histology confirmed 67 carcinoids (eight with atypical histology or lymph node metastases), two adenoid cystic carcinomata, one muco-epidermoid, and two mucous gland adenomata. Prolonged follow-up is especially indicated in patients with adenoid cyst carcinoma and in those with atypical or metastatic carcinoid histology. Although such pathology is not incompatible with long survival, of 10 patients in these categories, all five late deaths were probably related to the tumour. However, of 57 patients considered to have had typical carcinoid histology and adequate removal of the tumour, there has to date been no tumour-related death, but one patient developed radiosensitive atypical carcinoid tracheal tumours nine years later. The actuarially assessed survival of 71 patients undergoing surgery for bronchial adenomata was 75% at 15 years. Specific tumour types should replace the term bronchial adenoma. Images PMID:181862

Mod-2 wind turbine field operations experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gordon, L. H.

1985-01-01

The three-machine, 7.5 MW Goodnoe Hills located near Goldendale, Washington and is now in a research/experimental operations phase that offers a unique opportunity to study the effects of single and multiple wind turbines interacting with each other, the power grid; and the environment. Following a brief description of the turbine and project history, this paper addresses major problem areas and research and development test results. Field operations, both routine and nonroutine, are discussed. Routine operation to date has produced over 13,379,000 KWh of electrical energy during 11,064 hr of rotation. Nonroutine operation includes suspended activities caused by a crack in the low speed shaft that necessitated a redesign and reinstallation of this assembly on all three turbines. With the world's largest cluster back in full operation, two of the turbines will be operated over the next years to determine their value as energy producer. The third unit will be used primarily for conducting research tests requiring configuration changes to better understand the wind turbine technology. Technical areas summarized pertain to system performance and enhancements. Specific research tests relating to acoustics, TV interference, and wake effects conclude the paper.

Development Process and Technical Aspects of Laparoscopic Hepatectomy: Learning Curve Based on 15 Years of Experience.

PubMed

Komatsu, Shohei; Scatton, Olivier; Goumard, Claire; Sepulveda, Ailton; Brustia, Raffaele; Perdigao, Fabiano; Soubrane, Olivier

2017-05-01

Laparoscopic hepatectomy continues to be a challenging operation associated with a steep learning curve. This study aimed to evaluate the learning process during 15 years of experience with laparoscopic hepatectomy and to identify approaches to standardization of this procedure. Prospectively collected data of 317 consecutive laparoscopic hepatectomies performed from January 2000 to December 2014 were reviewed retrospectively. The operative procedures were classified into 4 categories (minor hepatectomy, left lateral sectionectomy [LLS], left hepatectomy, and right hepatectomy), and indications were classified into 5 categories (benign-borderline tumor, living donor, metastatic liver tumor, biliary malignancy, and hepatocellular carcinoma). During the first 10 years, the procedures were limited mainly to minor hepatectomy and LLS, and the indications were limited to benign-borderline tumor and living donor. Implementation of major hepatectomy rapidly increased the proportion of malignant tumors, especially hepatocellular carcinoma, starting from 2011. Conversion rates decreased with experience for LLS (13.3% vs 3.4%; p = 0.054) and left hepatectomy (50.0% vs 15.0%; p = 0.012), but not for right hepatectomy (41.4% vs 35.7%; p = 0.661). Our 15-year experience clearly demonstrates the stepwise procedural evolution from LLS through left hepatectomy to right hepatectomy, as well as the trend in indications from benign-borderline tumor/living donor to malignant tumors. In contrast to LLS and left hepatectomy, a learning curve was not observed for right hepatectomy. The ongoing development process can contribute to faster standardization necessary for future advances in laparoscopic hepatectomy. Copyright © 2017 American College of Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

10-year experience of CO2-laser application in ambulance gynecology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stachanov, Michael L.; Masychev, Victor I.; Velsher, Leonid Z.; Kirkin, Vladimir V.; Zhashkov, Roman V.; Kocharian, Emilia A.

2000-10-01

CO2-laser surgical systems have come to stay in everyday practice of modern physicians and are successfully used in colposcopic and laparoscopic surgery. Results, obtained in ambulance gynecology are especially impressing. CO2- laser provides high medical- and cost-effective treatment. Presented work describes many-years experience of CO2- laser application. 439 patients with various vulvaric and cervix diseases were operated within this period. Laser beam parameters were selected according to requirements ((tau) =4 J/cm2) treatment without carbonization. Analyses of the results showed that the laser successfully destructs uterine cervix erosion, endocervicosis, dysplasia, leukoplakia, eritoplakia of uterine cervix, various benignant pathologies and focus degenerative process in ambulate conditions.

The Ross Procedure in Pediatric Patients: A 20-Year Experience of Ross Procedure in a Single Institution

PubMed Central

Yoon, Dong Woog; Yang, Ji-Hyuk; Jun, Tae-Gook; Park, Pyo Won

2017-01-01

Background The Ross/Ross-Konno procedure is considered a good option for irreparable aortic valve disease in pediatric patients because of its hemodynamic performance and potential for growth of the pulmonary autograft. This study is a review of the long-term results of our 20-year experience with the Ross and Ross-Konno operations in a single institution. Methods Between June 1995 and January 2016, 16 consecutive patients (mean age, 6.0±5.9 years; range, 16 days to 17.4 years) underwent either a Ross operation (n=9) or a Ross-Konno operation (n=7). The study included 12 males and 4 females, with a median follow-up period of 47 months (range, 6 to 256 months). Results There were no cases of in-hospital or late mortality. Six reoperations were performed in 5 patients. Four patients underwent right ventricular-pulmonary artery (RV-PA) conduit replacement. Two patients underwent concomitant replacement of the pulmonary autograft and RV-PA conduit 10 years and 8 years after the Ross operation, respectively. The rate of freedom from adverse outcomes of the pulmonary autograft was 88% and 70% at 5 and 10 years, respectively. The rate of freedom from valve-related reoperations was 79% and 63% at 5 and 10 years, respectively. Conclusion Pulmonary autografts demonstrated good durability with low mortality. The Ross/Ross-Konno procedure is a good option that can be performed safely in pediatric patients with aortic valve disease, even in a small-volume center. PMID:28795027

Basic surgical training in Ireland: the impact of operative experience, training program allocation and mentorship on trainee satisfaction.

PubMed

O'Sullivan, K E; Byrne, J S; Walsh, T N

2013-12-01

Application to the Irish basic surgical training (BST) program in Ireland has decreased progressively over the past 5 years. We hypothesised that this decline was secondary to dissatisfaction with training correlated with reduced operative experience and lack of mentorship among BSTs. An anonymous 15 question electronic survey was circulated to all BSTs appraising their impression of the operative experience available to them, their mentorship and their opinions of critical aspects of training. Fifty trainees responded to the survey. At the commencement of training 98 % (n = 43) intended to stay in surgery, decreasing to 79 % (n = 34) during the BST. Trainees who felt they had a mentor were three times more likely to be content in surgical training (OR 3.11; 95 % CI 0.94-10.25, P = 0.06). Trainees satisfied with their allocated rotation were more likely to be content in surgical training (OR 4.5; 95 % CI 1.03-19.6, P = 0.045). Individual trainee comments revealed dissatisfaction with operative exposure. Mentorship and satisfaction with allocated training rotation had a positive impact on trainee satisfaction and correlated with contentedness in surgical training. Operative experience is the main element that trainees report as lacking. This highlights the need for reform of the training system to improve current levels of mentorship and increase operative exposure to enhance its attractiveness to the best quality medical graduates.

Stereotactic radiosurgery in hemangioblastoma: Experience over 14 years

PubMed Central

Goyal, Nishant; Agrawal, Deepak; Singla, Raghav; Kale, Shashank Sharad; Singh, Manmohan; Sharma, Bhawani Shankar

2016-01-01

Background: Although gamma knife has been advocated for hemangioblastomas, it is not used widely by neurosurgeons. Objective: We review our experience over 14 years in an attempt to define the role of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) in the management of hemangioblastomas. Patients and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on all patients of hemangioblastoma who underwent SRS at our institute over a period of 14 years (1998–2011). Gamma knife plans, clinical history, and radiology were reviewed for all patients. Results: A total of 2767 patients underwent gamma knife during the study period. Of these, 10 (0.36%) patients were treated for 24 hemangioblastomas. Eight patients (80%) had von Hippel-Lindau disease while two had sporadic hemangioblastomas. The median peripheral dose (50% isodose) delivered to the tumors was 29.9 Gy. Clinical and radiological follow-up data were available for eight patients. Of these, two were re-operated for persisting cerebellar symptoms. The remaining six patients were recurrence-free at a mean follow-up of 48 months (range 19–108 months). One patient had an increase in cyst volume along with a decrease in the size of the mural nodule. Conclusions: SRS should be the first option for asymptomatic hemangioblastomas. Despite the obvious advantages, gamma knife is not widely used as an option for hemangioblastomas. PMID:26933339

Missile cardiac injuries: review of 16 years' experience.

PubMed

Lone, Reyaz Ahmed; Wani, Mehmood Ahmad; Hussain, Zahur; Dar, Abdul Majid; Sharma, Mukhand Lal; Bhat, Mohd Akbar; Ahangar, Abdul Gani

2009-07-01

Penetrating cardiac trauma represents an increasingly important form of trauma due to the frequent use of firearms and bombs in civilian violence. We report our experience over the past 16 years with missile-induced cardiac injuries. A retrospective study reviewing 40 cases (30 males, 10 females) of missile cardiac injuries was conducted. The nature of injuries, management and outcomes were analyzed. The ages ranged from 14-68 years. The mean time in which patients reached the hospital was 4.1 hours. Forty percent of the patients had firearm injuries and the remaining 60% had pellet or splinter injuries to the heart. Survival was noted in 37.5% in the gunshot group and in 66.6% in the splinter/pellet group. The survival in patients with isolated cardiac injury was 60%, while it was only 40% in those with associated injuries. Single-chamber injury was noted in 87.5% of the patients and the survival in these was 62.8%. Fourteen complications were noted in the patients who were resuscitated. One patient was re-explored for excessive bleeding and a missed right ventricular perforation was repaired. In missile cardiac injuries, results are best if operated early, and outcome depends upon multiple factors including clinical status at arrival, time interval till management, nature of injury, and associated injuries.

Experience Based Career Education at Wichita East High School: A Third-Party Evaluation for Year Two, 1977-78.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Crawford, George; Miskel, Cecil

A third-party evaluation was conducted to assess the second year's operation of the Experience Based Career Education (EBCE) program at Wichita (Kansas) High School East. The program proposal contained fourteen process objectives and twelve outcome objectives. The status of the process objective achievement was determined by interviewing program…

Cardiac and great vessel injuries after chest trauma: our 10-year experience.

PubMed

Onan, Burak; Demirhan, Recep; Öz, Kürşad; Onan, Ismihan Selen

2011-09-01

Cardiovascular injuries after trauma present with high mortality. The aim of the study was to present our experience in cardiac and great vessel injuries after chest trauma. During the 10-year period, 104 patients with cardiac (n=94) and great vessel (n=10) injuries presented to our hospital. The demographic data, mechanism of injury, location of injury, other associated injuries, timing of surgical intervention, surgical approach, and clinical outcome were reviewed. Eighty-eight (84.6%) males presented after chest trauma. The mean age of the patients was 32.5±8.2 years (range: 12-76). Penetrating injuries (62.5%) were the most common cause of trauma. Computed tomography was performed in most cases and echocardiography was used in some stable cases. Cardiac injuries mostly included the right ventricle (58.5%). Great vessel injuries involved the subclavian vein in 6, innominate vein in 1, vena cava in 1, and descending aorta in 2 patients. Early operations after admission to the emergency were performed in 75.9% of the patients. Thoracotomy was performed in 89.5% of the patients. Operative mortality was significantly high in penetrating injuries (p=0.01). Clinicians should suspect cardiac and great vessel trauma in every patient presenting to the emergency unit after chest trauma. Computed tomography and echocardiography are beneficial in the management of chest trauma. Operative timing depends on hemodynamic status, and a multidisciplinary team approach improves the patient's prognosis.

Effect of minimally invasive surgery fellowship on residents' operative experience.

PubMed

Altieri, Maria S; Frenkel, Catherine; Scriven, Richard; Thornton, Deborah; Halbert, Caitlin; Talamini, Mark; Telem, Dana A; Pryor, Aurora D

2017-01-01

There is an increased need for surgical trainees to acquire advanced laparoscopic skills as laparoscopy becomes the standard of care in many areas of general surgery. Since the introduction of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) fellowships, there has been a continuing debate as to whether these fellowships adversely affect general surgery resident exposure to laparoscopic cases. The aim of our study was to examine whether the introduction of an MIS fellowship negatively impacts general surgery residents' experience at a single academic center. We describe the changes following establishment of MIS fellowship at an academic center. Resident case log system from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education was queried to obtain all PGY 1-5 resident operative case logs. Two-year time period preceding and following the institution of an MIS fellowship at our institution in 2012 was compared. P values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Following initiation of the MIS fellowship, an MIS service was established. The service comprised of a fellow, midlevel resident, and intern. Operative experience was examined. From 2010-2012 to 2012-2014, residents logged a total of 272 and 585 complex laparoscopic cases, respectively. There were 43 residents from 2010 to 2013 and 44 residents from 2013 to 2014. When the two time periods were compared, a trend of increased numbers for all procedures was noted, except laparoscopic GYN/genito-urinary procedures. Average percent increase in complex general surgery procedures was 249 ± 179.8 %. Following establishment of a MIS fellowship, reported cases by residents were higher or similar to those reported nationally for laparoscopic procedures. Institution of an MIS fellowship had a favorable effect on general surgery resident operative education at a single academic training center. Residents may benefit from the presence of a fellowship at an academic center because they are able to participate in an

Operational Experience with Autonomous Star Trackers on ESA Interplanetary Spacecraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lauer, Mathias; Jauregui, Libe; Kielbassa, Sabine

2007-01-01

Mars Express (MEX), Rosetta and Venus Express (VEX) are ESA interplanetary spacecrafts (S/C) launched in June 2003, March 2004 and November 2005, respectively. Mars Express was injected into Mars orbit end of 2003 with routine operations starting in spring 2004. Rosetta is since launch on its way to rendezvous comet Churyumov-Gerasimenko in 2014. It has completed several test and commissioning activities and is performing several planetary swingbys (Earth in spring 2005, Mars in spring 2007, Earth in autumn 2007 and again two years later). Venus Express has also started routine operations since the completion of the Venus orbit insertion maneuver sequence beginning of May 2006. All three S/C are three axes stabilized with a similar attitude and orbit control system (AOCS). The attitude is estimated on board using star and rate sensors and controlled using four reaction wheels. A bipropellant reaction control system with 10N thrusters serves for wheel off loadings and attitude control in safe mode. Mars Express and Venus Express have an additional 400N engine for the planetary orbit insertion. Nominal Earth communication is accomplished through a high gain antenna. All three S/C are equipped with a redundant set of autonomous star trackers (STR) which are based on almost the same hardware. The STR software is especially adapted for the respective mission. This paper addresses several topics related to the experience gained with the STR operations on board the three S/C so far.

Mortality in perforated duodenal ulcer depends upon pre-operative risk: a retrospective 10-year study.

PubMed

Larkin, J O; Bourke, M G; Muhammed, A; Waldron, R; Barry, K; Eustace, P W

2010-12-01

Most patients presenting with acutely perforated duodenal ulcer undergo operation, but conservative treatment may be indicated when an ulcer has spontaneously sealed with minimal/localised peritoneal irritation or when the patient's premorbid performance status is poor. We retrospectively reviewed our experience with operative and conservative management of perforated duodenal ulcers over a 10-year period and analysed outcome according to American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score. The records of all patients presenting with perforated duodenal ulcer to the Department of Surgery, Mayo General Hospital, between January 1998 and December 2007 were reviewed. Age, gender, co-morbidity, ASA-score, clinical presentation, mode of management, operative procedures, morbidity and mortality were considered. Of 76 patients included, 48 (44 operative, 4 conservative) were ASA I-III, with no mortality irrespective of treatment. Amongst 28 patients with ASA-score IV/V, mortality was 54.5% (6/11) following operative management and 52.9% (9/17) with conservative management. In patients with a perforated duodenal ulcer and ASA-score I-III, postoperative outcome is uniformly favourable. We recommend these patients have repair with peritoneal lavage performed, routinely followed postoperatively by empirical triple therapy. Given that mortality is equivalent between ASA IV/V patients whether managed operatively or conservatively, we suggest that both management options are equally justifiable.

Maylard incision in gynecologic surgery: 4-year experience in Thammasat University Hospital.

PubMed

Manusook, Sakol; Suwannarurk, Komsun; Pongrojpaw, Densak; Bhamarapravatana, Kornkarn

2014-08-01

To present the results of Maylard incisionfor gynecologic surgery in Thammasat University Hospital during the past four years. A retrospective study of gynecologic surgery performed via the Maylard muscle cutting incision compare to Pfannenstiel muscle splitting and midline incision. Data came from subjects who underwent gynecologic surgey at Thammasat University Hospital, Pathumthani, Thailand friom January 2010 to December 2013. In the period of 4 years, there were 283 cases of elective surgery that performed via Maylard, Pfannenstiel and midline incision by the single experience gynecologic surgeon team. One hundred and six cases were performed via Maylard incision technique. The remaining 59 and 118 cases were performed via Pfannenstiel and midline incision technique, respectively. Two-thirds and one-thirds of cases underwent hysterectomy and conservative surgery, respectively. Benign conditions were the major indicationfor surgery at the percentage of 83.4. Operative results were not significantly different from well-known midline and Pfannenstiel incision in terms of blood loss, time to first meal and postoperative pain. Operative time in Maylard incision was longer than in Pfannenstiel incision. Length of stay in Maylard incision was longer than Pfannenstiel but shorter than midline incision. Overall complications (eoperation, bowel injuries, urinary bladder injuries and blood transfusion rate) were not significantly different. Maylard incision provides similar operative results with midline and Pfannenstiel technique. Even though it takes more time for abdominal entry but it gives more operative exposure than Pfannenstiel incision. In the woman with previous low transverse scar and gynaecologic surgery is needed, Maylard incision could be an optional technique that provides cosmetic and successfud results. Hand on training for Maylard incision from their mentors should be encouraged to more practice.

A 22-Year Northern Irish Experience of Carotid Body Tumours

PubMed Central

O'Neill, Stephen; O'Donnell, Mark; Harkin, Denis; Loughrey, Maurice; Lee, Bernard; Blair, Paul

2011-01-01

Objectives Carotid body tumours (CBTs) are rare vascular neoplasms originating in paraganglionic cells of the carotid bifurcation. The aim of this study was to review all patients diagnosed with CBTs in Northern Ireland. Methods A retrospective review was performed of all patients who had CBTs treated at our institutions between 1987 and 2009. Patient demographics, clinical symptomatology, investigative modality, therapeutic intervention, pathological analysis and long-term outcomes were assessed. Results Twenty-nine patients were identified with 33 CBTs and three glomus intravagale tumours (GITs). Six patients had bilateral CBTs (21%), one of whom had a synchronous GIT. Twenty-six patients underwent a total of 30 operative procedures for the resection of 28 CBTs and 3 GITs. Conventional operative treatment included subadventitial tumour excision. A vascular shunt facilitated arterial reconstruction following the removal of seven (23%) tumours and on six of these occasions (19%) continuity was restored with an interposition vein graft. For access the external carotid artery was ligated during the removal of four tumours (13%). Two tumours were considered malignant. No peri-operative mortalities were recorded. Immediate complications included peri-operative stroke secondary to an occluded vein graft (n=1), requirement of tracheostomy (n=2), emergency haematoma drainage (n=2) and transient cranial nerve damage (n=8). Late complications included pseudoaneurysm of vein graft with subsequent stoke (n=1), permanent cranial nerve damage (n=9), Horner’s syndrome (n=1) and an asymptomatic vein graft occlusion (n=1). One patient had tumour recurrence two years post-operatively and died due to pulmonary metastases. Two other patients died of unrelated causes. All other patients remain well with no evidence of tumour recurrence at mean followup of 1801 days (range 159-9208 days). Conclusion Our long-term experience is comparable with other reported case series where surgical

A 22-year Northern Irish experience of carotid body tumours.

PubMed

O'Neill, Stephen; O'Donnell, Mark; Harkin, Denis; Loughrey, Maurice; Lee, Bernard; Blair, Paul

2011-09-01

Carotid body tumours (CBTs) are rare vascular neoplasms originating in paraganglionic cells of the carotid bifurcation. The aim of this study was to review all patients diagnosed with CBTs in Northern Ireland. A retrospective review was performed of all patients who had CBTs treated at our institutions between 1987 and 2009. Patient demographics, clinical symptomatology, investigative modality, therapeutic intervention, pathological analysis and long-term outcomes were assessed. Twenty-nine patients were identified with 33 CBTs and three glomus intravagale tumours (GITs). Six patients had bilateral CBTs (21%), one of whom had a synchronous GIT. Twenty-six patients underwent a total of 30 operative procedures for the resection of 28 CBTs and 3 GITs. Conventional operative treatment included subadventitial tumour excision. A vascular shunt facilitated arterial reconstruction following the removal of seven (23%) tumours and on six of these occasions (19%) continuity was restored with an interposition vein graft. For access the external carotid artery was ligated during the removal of four tumours (13%). Two tumours were considered malignant. No peri-operative mortalities were recorded. Immediate complications included peri-operative stroke secondary to an occluded vein graft (n=1), requirement of tracheostomy (n=2), emergency haematoma drainage (n=2) and transient cranial nerve damage (n=8). Late complications included pseudoaneurysm of vein graft with subsequent stoke (n=1), permanent cranial nerve damage (n=9), Horner's syndrome (n=1) and an asymptomatic vein graft occlusion (n=1). One patient had tumour recurrence two years post-operatively and died due to pulmonary metastases. Two other patients died of unrelated causes. All other patients remain well with no evidence of tumour recurrence at mean followup of 1801 days (range 159-9208 days). Our long-term experience is comparable with other reported case series where surgical intervention conferred a long

Operation Heli-STAR - Atlanta Communications Experiment (ACE). Volume 9

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1996-01-01

Operation Heli-STAR (Helicopter Short-Haul Transportation and Aviation Research) was established and operated in Atlanta, Georgia, during the period of the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games. Heli-STAR had three major thrusts: (1) the establishment and operation of a helicopter-based cargo transportation system, (2) the management of low-altitude air traffic in the airspace of an urban area, and (3) the collection and analysis of research and development data associated with items 1 and 2. Heli-STAR was a cooperative industry/government program that included parcel package shippers and couriers in the Atlanta area, the helicopter industry, aviation electronics manufacturers, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), and support contractors. Several detailed reports have been produced as a result of Operation Heli-STAR. These include four reports on acoustic measurements and associated analyses, and reports on the Heli-STAR tracking data including the data processing and retrieval system, the Heli-STAR cargo simulation, and the community response system. In addition, NASA's Advanced General Aviation Transport Experiments (AGATE) program has produced a report describing the Atlanta Communications Experiment (ACE) which produced the avionics and ground equipment using automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast (ADS-B) technology. This latter report is restricted to organizations belonging to NASA's AGATE industry consortium. A complete list of these reports is shown on the following page.

Cassini Solstice Mission Maneuver Experience: Year One

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wagner, Sean V.; Arrieta, Juan; Ballard, Christopher G.; Hahn, Yungsun; Stumpf, Paul W.; Valerino, Powtawche N.

2011-01-01

The Cassini-Huygens spacecraft began its four-year Prime Mission to study Saturn's system in July 2004. Two tour extensions followed: a two-year Equinox Mission beginning in July 2008 and a seven-year Solstice Mission starting in September 2010. This paper highlights Cassini maneuver activities from June 2010 through June 2011, covering the transition from the Equinox to Solstice Mission. This interval included 38 scheduled maneuvers, nine targeted Titan flybys, three targeted Enceladus flybys, and one close Rhea flyby. In addition, beyond the demanding nominal navigation schedule, numerous unforeseen challenges further complicated maneuver operations. These challenges will be discussed in detail.

[Laparoscopic adjustable gastric-banding treatment for morbid obesity our first year experience].

PubMed

Iordache, N; Vizeteu, R; Iorgulescu, A; Zmeu, B; Iordache, M

2003-01-01

The authors present the results of a prospective study regarding their 1st year experience in laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LABG), which included 21 patients (5 males, 16 females), with an average age of 39 (between 20-53 years). The follow up was made at one and six months postoperative. The medium weight was 138 kg (between 95-172 kg), with a medium excess of body mass of 66.89 kg (extremes between 27.75 and 104 kg). The medium BMI (body mass index) was 48.9 (extremes: 34.5-66), 8 patients being superobese (BMI > 50). The average operating time was 120 min, all operations were finished laparosopically. Postoperative complications were: total disfagia (1 case), parietal suppuration (2 cases) and partial intragastric migration of the prosthesis (1 case). There were no deceased patients. The medium excess of body mass at 6 months after surgery was 46.57 (only 13 patients evaluated in this interval). After 6 months postoperative the comorbidities were healed at half of the patients. Although we do not benefit of a long time follow up, the favorable initial results permits us to state that LABG must find its place in the efforts of struggling against obesity and its consequences.

Lessons learned from twenty-year operation of the Large Helical Device poloidal coils made from cable-in-conduit conductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takahata, Kazuya; Moriuchi, Sadatomo; Ooba, Kouki; Takami, Shigeyuki; Iwamoto, Akifumi; Mito, Toshiyuki; Imagawa, Shinsaku

2018-04-01

The Large Helical Device (LHD) superconducting magnet system consists of two pairs of helical coils and three pairs of poloidal coils. The poloidal coils use cable-in-conduit (CIC) conductors, which have now been adopted in many fusion devices, with forced cooling by supercritical helium. The poloidal coils were first energized with the helical coils on March 27, 1998. Since that time, the coils have experienced 54,600 h of steady cooling, 10,600 h of excitation operation, and nineteen thermal cycles for twenty years. During this period, no superconducting-to-normal transition of the conductors has been observed. The stable operation of the poloidal coils demonstrates that a CIC conductor is suited to large-scale superconducting magnets. The AC loss has remained constant, even though a slight decrease was observed in the early phase of operation. The hydraulic characteristics have been maintained without obstruction over the entire period of steady cooling. The experience gained from twenty years of operation has also provided lessons regarding malfunctions of peripheral equipment.

Laparoscopic versus open operation for perforated peptic ulcer in pediatric patients: A 10-year experience.

PubMed

Wong, Carol W Y; Chung, Patrick H Y; Tam, Paul K H; Wong, Kenneth K Y

2015-12-01

Perforated peptic ulcer (PPU) is a relatively uncommon condition in children. We aim to evaluate and compare the outcomes of laparoscopic omental patch repair versus open repair for PPU in pediatric patients. Children who underwent omental patch repair for PPU from 2004 to 2014 in our hospital were reviewed retrospectively. Patient demographics, perioperative as well as intraoperative details and surgical outcomes, were analyzed. Thirteen patients were identified, and all presented with abdominal pain. The median age of the study group was 14.9years (range 6.3 to 18.4years). Radiological evidence of pneumoperitoneum on erect chest x-ray (CXR) was found only in five patients (38.5%). None of the patients had a known history of peptic ulcer disease. Diagnosis other than PPU was made in five patients preoperatively. Laparoscopic repair was attempted in eight patients with one of them requiring conversion. There was no significant difference in patient demographics when compared with the open repair group. The perforation site was in the duodenum in 11 patients and in the antrum in two patients. The mean size of perforation was larger in the open repair group (p=0.005). Although the operating time was longer in the laparoscopic group (p=0.51), the length of hospital stay was significantly shorter (p=0.048). Only two patient diseases were Helicobacter pylori related. Clinical features of perforated peptic ulcer in children are different from adults. Risk factors are less frequently identified. Laparoscopic omental patch repair is a feasible surgical option and is associated with satisfactory outcomes in pediatric practice. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Operational plans for life science payloads - From experiment selection through postflight reporting

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mccollum, G. W.; Nelson, W. G.; Wells, G. W.

1976-01-01

Key features of operational plans developed in a study of the Space Shuttle era life science payloads program are presented. The data describes the overall acquisition, staging, and integration of payload elements, as well as program implementation methods and mission support requirements. Five configurations were selected as representative payloads: (a) carry-on laboratories - medical emphasis experiments, (b) mini-laboratories - medical/biology experiments, (c) seven-day dedicated laboratories - medical/biology experiments, (d) 30-day dedicated laboratories - Regenerative Life Support Evaluation (RLSE) with selected life science experiments, and (e) Biomedical Experiments Scientific Satellite (BESS) - extended duration primate (Type I) and small vertebrate (Type II) missions. The recommended operational methods described in the paper are compared to the fundamental data which has been developed in the life science Spacelab Mission Simulation (SMS) test series. Areas assessed include crew training, experiment development and integration, testing, data-dissemination, organization interfaces, and principal investigator working relationships.

Operational experience at a "dog-hair" site.

Treesearch

Stephen R. Ricketts; Richard E. Miller

1995-01-01

To monitor consequences of past operational practices, we installed eight 0.05-acre plots in a 9-year-old Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco var. menziesii) plantation established after clearcutting a grossly overstocked stand on a poor-quality site. Logging slash was broadcast burned on half this clearcut. One...

It depends on your perspective: Resident satisfaction with operative experience.

PubMed

Perone, Jennifer A; Fankhauser, Grant T; Adhikari, Deepak; Mehta, Hemalkumar B; Woods, Majka B; Tyler, Douglas S; Brown, Kimberly M

2017-02-01

Resident satisfaction is a key performance metric for surgery programs; we studied factors influencing resident satisfaction in operative cases, and the concordance of faculty and resident perceptions on these factors. Resident and faculty were separately queried on satisfaction immediately following operative cases. Statistical significance of the associations between resident and faculty satisfaction and case-related factors were tested by Chi-square or Fisher's exact test. Residents and faculty were very satisfied in 56/87 (64%) and 36/87 (41%) of cases respectively. Resident satisfaction was associated with their perceived role as surgeon (p < 0.04), performing >50% of the case (p < 0.01), autonomy (p < 0.03), and PGY year 4-5(p < 0.02). Faculty taking over the case was associated with both resident and faculty dissatisfaction. Faculty satisfaction was associated with resident preparation (p < 0.01), faculty perception of resident autonomy (p < 0.01), and faculty familiarity with resident's skills (p < 0.01). Resident and faculty satisfaction are associated with the resident's competent performance of the case, suggesting interventions to optimize resident preparation for a case or faculty's ability to facilitate resident autonomy will improve satisfaction with OR experience. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Experiences with operations and autonomy of the Mars Pathfinder Microrover.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mishkin, A. H.; Morrison, J. C.; Nguyen, T. T.; Stone, H. W.; Cooper, B. K.; Wilcox, B. H.

The Microrover Flight Experiment (MFEX) is a NASA OACT (Office of Advanced Concepts and Technology) flight experiment which, integrated with the Mars Pathfinder (MPF) lander and spacecraft system, landed on Mars on July 4, 1997. In the succeeding 30 sols (1 sol = 1 Martian day), the Sojourner microrover accomplished all of its primary and extended mission objectives. After completion of the originally planned extended mission, MFEX continued to conduct a series of technology experiments, deploy its alpha proton X-ray spectrometer (APXS) on rocks and soil, and image both terrain features and the lander. This mission was conducted under the constraints of a once-per-sol opportunity for command and telemetry transmissions between the lander and Earth operators. As such, the MFEX rover was required to carry out its mission, including terrain navigation and contingency response, under supervised autonomous control. For example, goal locations were specified daily by human operators; the rover then safely traversed to these locations. During traverses, the rover autonomously detected and avoided rock, slope, and drop-off hazards, changing its path as needed before turning back towards its goal. This capability to operate in an unmodeled environment, choosing actions in response to sensor input to accomplish requested objectives, is unique among robotic space missions to date.

United States Department of Energy, Nevada Operations Office, completion report Operation KLAXON, Fiscal Year 1993

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Not Available

1994-06-01

The U.S. Department of Energy, Nevada Operations Office (DOE/NV), Completion Report provides a summary of activities conducted at the Nevada Test Site (NTS) between October 1, 1992, and September 30, 1993, associated with Operation KLAXON. (In the past, each annual Completion Report dealt with a series of underground nuclear detonations; however, because no nuclear tests were conducted during FY 1993, this Report summarizes continuing nonnuclear and nuclear test readiness activities at the NTS sponsored by DOE/NV.) The report serves as a reference for those involved with the planning and execution of Operation KLAXON and also serves as a planning guidemore » for future operations. Information in the report covers the logistics and management of activities. Scientific information and data associated with NTS activities are presented in technical documents published by participating agencies. In September 1992, Congress legislated a nine-month moratorium on the testing of nuclear weapons. The bill also provided for a resumption of testing (with no more than five tests per year, or a total of 15 during the next three years) in July 1993, and mandated an end to nuclear testing, entirely, by 1996. President Bush signed the bill into law in October 1992.« less

Drier climate and productivity of operational poplar plantation - four years of throughfall exclusion experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Orsag, M.; Fischer, M.; Trnka, M.

2016-12-01

The production of woody biomass in short rotation woody coppice (SRWC) is considered as a suitable source of renewable energy for climate conditions prevailing in central European countries. The productivity of SRWC is largely dependent on the environmental conditions and the biomass yield can be severely compromised when water supply is limited. One of the climate change consequences predicted for Central Europe is the increasing frequency and duration of drought spells as a result of increased air temperature and temporally uneven distribution of precipitation. Therefore, a small-scale rain-throughfall exclusion experiment was established in 2011 in an operational SRWC plantation (hybrid poplar NM6) in the Bohemian-Moravian highlands (Czech Republic). Three times replicated experimental block comprised a treatment with 70 % rain-throughfall exclusion (R) and an adjacent control treatment (C) of the same size (25 m2). Above-ground biomass productivity (ABP) and soil moisture patterns were measured and evaluated during growing seasons 2011-2015. We observed high heterogeneity of soil moisture among blocks, resulting in high variability in ABP. The treatment effect was more pronounced with increasing seasonal precipitation. Generally, the R treatments showed lower ABP by 8.4 %, higher mortality by 6.7 % and strong competitive relationships among neighboring trees, which led to formation of few dominant trees, comprising 30 % of the total biomass at particular plot, accounting for 50 % of the annual ABP per 25 m2 plot. Our results suggests considerable resilience of hybrid poplar NM6 to decreased soil-water availability over long-term, while keeping minimal annual ABP of about 4.5 ton hectare (dry matter).

Function Transfer in Human Operant Experiments: The Role of Stimulus Pairings

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tonneau, Francois; Gonzalez, Carmen

2004-01-01

Although function transfer often has been studied in complex operant procedures (such as matching to sample), whether operant reinforcement actually produces function transfer in such settings has not been established. The present experiments, with high school students as subjects, suggest that stimulus pairings can promote function transfer in…

Amphibious Landing Operations in World War II: Personal Experience in Applying and Developing Doctrine

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-05-21

the forefront of the Army’s effort to gain experience planning and conducting amphibious landings was Lucian K . Truscott, Jr, a Cavalry officer by...Landing Operations, Lucian K . Truscott, Jr., Operation Torch, Operation Husky, 3rd Infantry Division, World War II 16. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: 17...gain experience planning and conducting amphibious landings was Lucian K . Truscott, Jr., a Cavalry officer by training. Following his assignment to

Surgical treatment of chronic pancreatitis using Frey's procedure: a Brazilian 16-year single-centre experience.

PubMed

Gestic, Martinho Antonio; Callejas-Neto, Francisco; Chaim, Elinton Adami; Utrini, Murillo Pimentel; Cazzo, Everton; Pareja, Jose Carlos

2011-04-01

Surgical treatment of chronic pancreatitis is indicated for intractable pain. Frey's procedure is an accepted treatment for this disease. The aim of the present study was to describe a single-centre experience in the treatment of chronic pancreatitis using Frey's procedure. A retrospective analysis of 73 patients who underwent a Frey's procedure between 1991 to 2007 and had at least 1 year of follow-up. Demographics, indication for surgery, peri-operative complications and late outcomes were analysed. The median age was 39.9 years. Seventy out of the 73 (95.8%) patients were male. The median pre-operative body mass index (BMI) was 19.1 kg/m(2). All patients had abdominal pain, 34 (46.6%) of them daily and 13 (17.8%) weekly, with moderate or severe intensity in 98.6% (n= 72). The aetiology was secondary to alcohol in 70 patients (95.9%), with a median consumption of 278 g per day. The surgical morbidity rate was 28.7%; there were no deaths. Median post-operative follow-up was 77.0 months; 64 patients (91.4%) had complete pain relief and post-operative BMI was 22.4 kg/m(2) (P<0.001). All patients with pre-operative endocrine and exocrine insufficiencies showed no reversal of the situation. New onset insufficiencies appeared late. Frey's procedure was a safe and effective therapeutic option for the surgical treatment of patients with intractable pain caused by chronic pancreatitis. © 2011 International Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association.

Shams 1 - Design and operational experiences of the 100MW - 540°C CSP plant in Abu Dhabi

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alobaidli, Abdulaziz; Sanz, Borja; Behnke, Klaus; Witt, Thomas; Viereck, Detlef; Schwarz, Mark André

2017-06-01

SHAMS 1 ("Shams" means "Sun" in Arabic) Concentrated Solar Power plant is a very successful example of a modern plant, which combines the known configuration of a parabolic trough technology with the well-established power generation technologies operated at 540°C live steam temperature while respecting the specific requirement of the daily starts and shutdowns. In addition to the high live steam temperature challenge and being located in the middle of the desert approx. 120 km south west of the city of Abu Dhabi, the plant has to face, the plant has to fact several atmospheric challenges like the high dust concentration, wind storms, and high ambient temperature. This paper, written jointly by Shams Power Company - the project and operating company and MAN Diesel & Turbo - the steam turbine original manufacturer, describes the challenges in optimizing the design of the steam turbine to fulfill the requirement of fast start up while operating the plant on daily transient pattern for minimum 30 years. It also addresses the several atmospheric challenges and how the project and operating company has overcame them. Finally, the paper gives a snap shot on the operational experience and record of the plant showing that despite the very challenging environment, the budgeted target has been exceeded in the first two years of operation.

77 FR 15818 - License Renewal Interim Staff Guidance LR-ISG-2011-05: Ongoing Review of Operating Experience

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-03-16

...-05: Ongoing Review of Operating Experience AGENCY: Nuclear Regulatory Commission. ACTION: Interim... License Renewal Interim Staff Guidance (LR-ISG), LR-ISG-2011-05, ``Ongoing Review of Operating Experience... industry-wide operating experience as an attribute of aging management programs used at nuclear power...

Data Assembly and Processing for Operational Oceanography: 10 Years of Achievements

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-07-20

Processing for Operational Oceanography: 10 Years of Acheivements 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER 5b. GRANT NUMBER 5c. PROGRAM ELEMENT NUMBER 0602435N 6... operational oceanography infrastructure. They provide data and products needed by modeling and data assimilation systems; they also provide products...directly useable for applications. The paper will discuss the role and functions of the data centers for operational oceanography and describe some of

Operating experience with a VMEbus multiprocessor system for data acquisition and reduction in nuclear physics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kutt, P. H.; Balamuth, D. P.

1989-10-01

Summary form only given, as follows. A multiprocessor system based on commercially available VMEbus components has been developed for the acquisition and reduction of event-mode data in nuclear physics experiments. The system contains seven 68000 CPUs and 14 Mbyte of memory. A minimal operating system handles data transfer and task allocation, and a compiler for a specially designed event analysis language produces code for the processors. The system has been in operation for four years at the University of Pennsylvania Tandem Accelerator Laboratory. Computation rates over three times that of a MicroVAX II have been achieved at a fraction of the cost. The use of WORM optical disks for event recording allows the processing of gigabyte data sets without operator intervention. A more powerful system is being planned which will make use of recently developed RISC (reduced instruction set computer) processors to obtain an order of magnitude increase in computing power per node.

High-power S-band experiment study: Objectives, description, planning and operation of experiment for ATS-G spacecraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Walp, R. M.

1972-01-01

The results of a study to develop and define requirements for the high power S-band experiment for the ATS-G are summarized. The objectives of the experiment are: (1) to demonstrate high power technology at S-band frequencies in orbiting spacecraft, (2) to employ high power carrier from the spacecraft for conducting interference measurements with Instructional Television Fixed Service systems, and (3) to provide means for performing educationally oriented applications experiments. Experiment organization and operation, and hardware for flight on the ATS-G spacecraft are described. Earth stations designed for the experiment as well as other special ground equipment are also described.

Operations summary for the convection and moisture experiment (CAMEX)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Griffin, V. L.; Guillory, A. R.; Susko, M.; Arnold, J. E.

1994-01-01

During the fall of 1993, NASA sponsored a field program called the Convection and Moisture Experiment (CAMEX) at Wallops Island, Virginia. CAMEX was a multidisciplinary experiment design to measure the three dimensional moisture fields over Wallops Island and to characterize the multifrequency radiometric signature of tropical convection over the Gulf Stream and southeastern Atlantic Ocean. This document summarizes the daily CAMEX activities, including ground and aircraft (NASA ER-2) operations, and includes 'quick-look' summaries of data acquisition along with data examples provided by the various CAMEX PI's.

Development and operating experience of a 1.1-m-long superconducting undulator at the Advanced Photon Source

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ivanyushenkov, Y.; Harkay, K.; Borland, M.; Dejus, R.; Dooling, J.; Doose, C.; Emery, L.; Fuerst, J.; Gagliano, J.; Hasse, Q.; Kasa, M.; Kenesei, P.; Sajaev, V.; Schroeder, K.; Sereno, N.; Shastri, S.; Shiroyanagi, Y.; Skiadopoulos, D.; Smith, M.; Sun, X.; Trakhtenberg, E.; Xiao, A.; Zholents, A.; Gluskin, E.

2017-10-01

Development of superconducting undulators continues at the Advanced Photon Source (APS). Two years after successful installation and commissioning of the first relatively short superconducting undulator "SCU0" in Sector 6 of the APS storage ring, the second 1.1-m-long superconducting undulator "SCU1" was installed in Sector 1 of the APS. The device has been in user operation since its commissioning in May 2015. This paper describes the magnetic and cryogenic design of the SCU1 together with the results of stand-alone cold tests. The SCU1's magnetic and cryogenic performance as well as its operating experience in the APS storage ring are also presented.

A 5-year experience with a minimally invasive technique for pectus carinatum repair.

PubMed

Abramson, Horacio; D'Agostino, José; Wuscovi, Sebastián

2009-01-01

This report describes a 5-year experience with a novel, minimally invasive surgical technique for treatment of pectus carinatum. From June 2002 to August 2007, 40 patients underwent operation to correct pectus carinatum by pressure applied through a curved steel bar that was placed subcutaneously anterior to the sternum, via lateral thoracic incisions. The bar is inserted through a polyvinyl chloride tube with the convexity facing posteriorly. The polyvinyl chloride tube is positioned presternally by trocar. Subperiosteal wires attach small fixation plates to the ribs laterally, and the convex bar is secured to the small fixation plates with screws applying manual pressure to the anterior chest wall until the desired configuration is achieved. The compressive elongated bar is attached to the fixation plate with screws. The average age was 14.3 years (range, 10-21 years), and 90% were male. Both symmetric and asymmetric protrusions were treated. Patients whose chest was not malleable, and whose sternum could not be brought to a desirable position with pressure from the operator's hand, were treated by the open or "Ravitch" technique. After 2 or more years, the bar, wires stitches, screws, and fixation plates were removed. Of 40 patients treated with this procedure, 20 have undergone bar removal with the following results: 10 excellent, 4 good, 4 fair, and 2 poor. Average blood loss was 15 mL. Average length of hospital stay was as follows: implant, 3.8 days; removal, 1.4 days. Patients returned to routine activity 14 days after repair. Average follow-up since primary repair is 2.49 years. In those who have had bar removal, it is 1.53 years. Complications were pneumothorax in 1 patient, treated with chest tub e suction; skin adherence in 8 cases; seroma in 6; wire breakage in 3; persistence of pain in 1; and infection in 1. Technical modifications (selecting younger patients, excluding patients with a stiff thoracic wall, submuscular insertion of the bar, stronger

Assessing the experience in complex hepatopancreatobiliary surgery among graduating chief residents: Is the operative experience enough?

PubMed Central

Sachs, Teviah E.; Ejaz, Aslam; Weiss, Matthew; Spolverato, Gaya; Ahuja, Nita; Makary, Martin A.; Wolfgang, Christopher L.; Hirose, Kenzo; Pawlik, Timothy M.

2015-01-01

Introduction Resident operative autonomy and case volume is associated with posttraining confidence and practice plans. Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education requirements for graduating general surgery residents are four liver and three pancreas cases. We sought to evaluate trends in resident experience and autonomy for complex hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) surgery over time. Methods We queried the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education General Surgery Case Log (2003–2012) for all cases performed by graduating chief residents (GCR) relating to liver, pancreas, and the biliary tract (HPB); simple cholecystectomy was excluded. Mean (±SD), median [10th–90th percentiles] and maximum case volumes were compared from 2003 to 2012 using R2 for all trends. Results A total of 252,977 complex HPB cases (36% liver, 43% pancreas, 21% biliary) were performed by 10,288 GCR during the 10-year period examined (Mean = 24.6 per GCR). Of these, 57% were performed during the chief year, whereas 43% were performed as postgraduate year 1–4. Only 52% of liver cases were anatomic resections, whereas 71% of pancreas cases were major resections. Total number of cases increased from 22,516 (mean = 23.0) in 2003 to 27,191 (mean = 24.9) in 2012. During this same time period, the percentage of HPB cases that were performed during the chief year decreased by 7% (liver: 13%, pancreas 8%, biliary 4%). There was an increasing trend in the mean number of operations (mean ± SD) logged by GCR on the pancreas (9.1 ± 5.9 to 11.3 ± 4.3; R2 = .85) and liver (8.0 ± 5.9 to 9.4 ± 3.4; R2 = .91), whereas those for the biliary tract decreased (5.9 ± 2.5 to 3.8 ± 2.1; R2 = .96). Although the median number of cases [10th:90th percentile] increased slightly for both pancreas (7.0 [4.0:15] to 8.0 [4:20]) and liver (7.0 [4:13] to 8.0 [5:14]), the maximum number of cases preformed by any given GCR remained stable for pancreas (51 to 53; R2 = .18), but increased for liver (38

Wilderness visitor experiences: Lessons from 50 years of research

Treesearch

David N. Cole; Daniel R. Williams

2012-01-01

This paper reviews 50 years of research on the experiences of wilderness visitors. Research on the nature of experiences began with an emphasis on motivations for taking wilderness trips and a focus on the experiential outcomes of wilderness visits. This perspective has been complemented by recent work that more deeply explores the lived experience in wilderness, its...

Infective Endocarditis With Paravalvular Extension: 35-Year Experience.

PubMed

Rouzé, Simon; Flécher, Erwan; Revest, Matthieu; Anselmi, Amedeo; Aymami, Marie; Roisné, Antoine; Guihaire, Julien; Verhoye, Jean Philippe

2016-08-01

We investigated our surgical strategy and clinical results in patients from active infective endocarditis (AIE) complicated by paravalvular involvement to determine the risk factors of early and late death and reoperation. From October 1979 to December 2014, 955 patients underwent operations for AIE; among them 207 had AIE with paravalvular extension. The patients were a mean age of 59.9 ± 15.4 years, and 162 (78%) were male. Of these patients, 137 (66%) had isolated aortic valve endocarditis, and 138 (67%) had native valve endocarditis. Follow-up was 99% complete. The operative mortality of the cohort was 16% (n = 34). Abnormal communication, mechanical valve implantation, and renal failure were independent predictors of 30-day death. Survival at 1, 5, 10, and 15 years was 90.3% ± 2.3%, 62.4% ± 3.7%, 49.3% ± 4.1%, and 37.9% ± 4.4%, respectively. Streptococcus endocarditis (all species), complex annular repair, and preoperative heart failure were independent predictors of long-term death. A reoperation was required in 29 patients (14%). Streptococcus pneumoniae endocarditis was the only independent predictor of early reoperation (within 30 days after the operation or during the same hospitalization). Freedom from reoperation at 1, 5, 10, and 15 years was 91.9% ± 2.2%, 89.6% ± 2.6%, 89.6% ± 2.6%, and 87.0% ± 3.5%, respectively. Independent predictors of late reoperation were urgent/emergency operation, prosthetic valve endocarditis, and complex annular repair. AIE complicated by paravalvular involvement remains a surgical challenge. Valve replacement (particularly using bioprosthesis) associated with ad hoc reconstruction seems to be a reliable option and showed very encouraging results in this context. Copyright © 2016 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation for Parkinson's disease: evidence for effectiveness and limitations from 12 years' experience.

PubMed

Chan, Anne Y Y; Yeung, Jonas H M; Mok, Vincent C T; Ip, Vincent H L; Wong, Adrian; Kuo, S H; Chan, Danny T M; Zhu, X L; Wong, Edith; Lau, Claire K Y; Wong, Rosanna K M; Tang, Venus; Lau, Christine; Poon, W S

2014-12-01

To present the result and experience of subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation for Parkinson's disease. Case series. Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong. A cohort of patients with Parkinson's disease received subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation from September 1998 to January 2010. Patient assessment data before and after the operation were collected prospectively. Forty-one patients (21 male and 20 female) with Parkinson's disease underwent bilateral subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation and were followed up for a median interval of 12 months. For the whole group, the mean improvements of Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) parts II and III were 32.5% and 31.5%, respectively (P<0.001). Throughout the years, a multidisciplinary team was gradually built. The deep brain stimulation protocol evolved and was substantiated by updated patient selection criteria and outcome assessment, integrated imaging and neurophysiological targeting, refinement of surgical technique as well as the accumulation of experience in deep brain stimulation programming. Most of the structural improvement occurred before mid-2005. Patients receiving the operation before June 2005 (19 cases) and after (22 cases) were compared; the improvements in UPDRS part III were 13.2% and 55.2%, respectively (P<0.001). There were three operative complications (one lead migration, one cerebral haematoma, and one infection) in the group operated on before 2005. There was no operative mortality. The functional state of Parkinson's disease patients with motor disabilities refractory to best medical treatment improved significantly after subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation. A dedicated multidisciplinary team building, refined protocol for patient selection and assessment, improvement of targeting methods, meticulous surgical technique, and experience in programming are the key factors contributing to the improved outcome.

Adopted Methodology for Cool-Down of SST-1 Superconducting Magnet System: Operational Experience with the Helium Refrigerator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sahu, A. K.; Sarkar, B.; Panchal, P.; Tank, J.; Bhattacharya, R.; Panchal, R.; Tanna, V. L.; Patel, R.; Shukla, P.; Patel, J. C.; Singh, M.; Sonara, D.; Sharma, R.; Duggar, R.; Saxena, Y. C.

2008-03-01

The 1.3 kW at 4.5 K helium refrigerator / liquefier (HRL) was commissioned during the year 2003. The HRL was operated with its different modes as per the functional requirements of the experiments. The superconducting magnets system (SCMS) of SST-1 was successfully cooled down to 4.5 K. The actual loads were different from the originally predicted boundary conditions and an adjustment in the thermodynamic balance of the refrigerator was necessary. This led to enhanced capacity, which was achieved without any additional hardware. The required control system for the HRL was tuned to achieve the stable thermodynamic balance, while keeping the turbines' operating parameters at optimized conditions. An extra mass flow rate requirement was met by exploiting the margin available with the compressor station. The methodology adopted to modify the capacity of the HRL, the safety precautions and experience of SCMS cool down to 4.5 K, are discussed.

Subcutaneous mastectomy in female-to-male transsexuals: Optimizing perioperative and operative management in 8 years clinical experience.

PubMed

Wolter, Andreas; Scholz, Till; Pluto, Naja; Diedrichson, Jens; Arens-Landwehr, Andreas; Liebau, Jutta

2018-03-01

The incidence of complications, especially acute hematoma requiring surgical revision in female-to-male transsexuals (FTMTS), is consistently highly documented in literature with up to 33%. Since 2008 we perform subcutaneous mastectomies in FTMTS with an annually increasing number of cases. Due to an initially high hematoma revision rate in the previously published cohort (2008-2013), we implemented peri- and postoperative preventive measures and compared the results with the recent patient cohort (2014-2016). The records of 356 patients (712 mastectomies) were retrospectively reviewed. We compared the first cohort (C1, 01/2008 - 12/2013, 346 mastectomies; peri- and postoperative standard procedure and implementation of an algorithmic care path in our institution) with the recent cohort (C2, 01/2014 - 01/2016, 366 mastectomies) and introduced in C2 the following preventive measures: perioperative administration of tranexamic acid, intraoperative elevation of blood pressure to at least 120 mmHg before wound closure, bedrest and consequent wearing of compression bandage without removal 12 hours postoperatively. Comparison of complication rate, patient satisfaction and secondary revision rate was obtained in both cohorts. The mean operation time could be reduced from 103.6 minutes to 72.5 minutes (p < 0.05). The overall complication rate could be diminished from 11.8% to 5.5% (p < 0.05), the acute hematoma revision rate from 9.2% to 4.1% (p < 0.05). Secondary revisions were similar in both patient cohorts. Patient satisfaction rate was ameliorated from 88% to 93.5% "very satisfied" to "satisfied" patients. Hematoma is the most common reason for reoperation in FTMTS patients. By implementation of peri- and postoperative preventive measures and additional application of an algorithmic care path we could achieve a significant reduction of complications, particularly of the hematoma evacuation rate. During 8 years clinical and operative treatment in FTMTS we

Development of Facial Rejuvenation Procedures: Thirty Years of Clinical Experience with Face Lifts

PubMed Central

Kim, Byung Jun; Choi, Jun Ho

2015-01-01

Facial rejuvenation procedures can be roughly divided into face lift surgery and nonoperative, less invasive procedures, such as fat grafts, fillers, botulinum toxin injections, thread lifts, or laserbrasion. Face lift surgery or rhytidectomy is the procedure most directly associated with rejuvenation, due to its fundamental ability to restore the anatomical changes caused by aging. Various methods of face lift surgery have been developed over the last hundred years, thanks to advances in the understanding of facial anatomy and the mechanisms of aging, as well as the dedication of innovative surgeons. However, no generally applicable standard method exists, because the condition of each patient is different, and each operative method has advantages and disadvantages. Specific characteristics of the skin of Asians and their skeletal anatomy should be considered when determining the operative method to be used on Asian patients. Plastic surgeons should improve their ability to analyze the original aesthetic properties and problem areas of each patient, drawing on scientific knowledge about the aging process, and they should develop the skills necessary to perform various rejuvenative techniques. In the present article, we reviewed various face lift procedures and the current methods of modified double plane face lift, based on our clinical experience of over 30 years. PMID:26430622

Utility operational experience on the NASA/DOE MOD-0A 200-kW wind turbine

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Glasgow, J. C.; Robbins, W. H.

1979-01-01

The Mod-0A 200 wind turbine was designed and fabricated as part of the Federal Wind Energy Program. Early wind turbine operation and performance data were obtained while gaining initial experience in the operation of large, horizontal axis wind turbines in typical utility environments. The Mod-0A wind turbine was turned over to the Town of Clayton Light and Water Plant, Clayton, NM, for utility operation and on December 31, 1978, the machine had completed ten months of utility operation. The machine is described and the recent operational experience at Clayton, NMis documented.

Flight Technical Error Analysis of the SATS Higher Volume Operations Simulation and Flight Experiments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Williams, Daniel M.; Consiglio, Maria C.; Murdoch, Jennifer L.; Adams, Catherine H.

2005-01-01

This paper provides an analysis of Flight Technical Error (FTE) from recent SATS experiments, called the Higher Volume Operations (HVO) Simulation and Flight experiments, which NASA conducted to determine pilot acceptability of the HVO concept for normal operating conditions. Reported are FTE results from simulation and flight experiment data indicating the SATS HVO concept is viable and acceptable to low-time instrument rated pilots when compared with today s system (baseline). Described is the comparative FTE analysis of lateral, vertical, and airspeed deviations from the baseline and SATS HVO experimental flight procedures. Based on FTE analysis, all evaluation subjects, low-time instrument-rated pilots, flew the HVO procedures safely and proficiently in comparison to today s system. In all cases, the results of the flight experiment validated the results of the simulation experiment and confirm the utility of the simulation platform for comparative Human in the Loop (HITL) studies of SATS HVO and Baseline operations.

Permanent epicardial pacing in pediatric patients: 12-year experience at a single center.

PubMed

Kwak, Jae Gun; Kim, Soo-Jin; Song, Jin Young; Choi, Eun Young; Lee, Sang Yoon; Shim, Woo Sup; Lee, Chang-Ha; Lee, Cheul; Park, Chun Soo

2012-02-01

Permanent cardiac pacing is not often done in children, and when done is usually accomplished through epicardial pacing. We reviewed a 12-year experience with the implantation of epicardial pacemakers by our clinical group. Fifty-three patients who underwent their first implantation of an epicardial pacemaker before the age of 18 years and between 1997 and 2009 were included in our study. The mean age of the patients at the time of first pacemaker implantation was 5.7±4.8 years. Indications for pacemaker implantation included postoperative or congenital atrioventricular block and sinus node dysfunction. The patients underwent 105 operations for the replacement of pacemaker pulse generators and 75 operations for the replacement of pacemaker leads. The most commonly used generator mode was the rate-responsive accelerometer-based (DDDR) mode, which was used in 40.9% of the patients. We used more non-steroid-eluting leads (70.1%) than steroid-eluting leads (29.1%). The overall duration of follow-up in the study was 8.0±4.5 years (range, 2.1 months to approximately 17.0 years). Freedom from the need for generator replacement was 98.0%, 60.7%, and 11.1% at 1, 5, and 8 years, respectively. A tendency toward early generator exhaustion was observed among younger patients (p=0.058). The generator mode used for pacing did not significantly affect generator longevity. Freedom from the need for lead replacement was 98.3%, 83.8%, and 63.6% at 1, 5, and 10 years, respectively. The mean longevity of the leads used in the study was 10.8±0.8 years. Neither patient age at the time of lead implantation nor type of lead significantly affected lead longevity. Lead longevity was sufficiently long and did not vary significantly according to type of lead. Generator longevity was not affected by lead type, generator mode, or patient age at the time of pacemaker implantation. Copyright © 2012 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

General paediatric surgery for patients aged under 5 years: a 5-year experience at a district general hospital.

PubMed

Kwok, C-S; Gordon, A C

2016-09-01

Introduction The gradual shift of general paediatric surgery (GPS) provision from district general hospitals (DGH) to specialised units is well recognised in the UK. The consequences of centralisation include a reduction in exposure to GPS for current surgical trainees. The GPS practice of a DGH is examined here. Methods All operations performed on children aged under 5 years over a 5-year period were identified using the local electronic operation database. Electronic hospital records and clinic letters were accessed to collect data on demographics, operations performed and outcome measures. Results 472 GPS operations were performed on children between the age of 22 days and 5 years between 2009 and 2014, of which 43 were on an emergency basis and 105 were performed on patients aged less than 1 year. Three patients were admitted following day case surgery. Six patients were readmitted within 30 days. Complication rates for all procedures and the four most common procedures were similar to those found in published literature. Conclusions GPS for patients aged less than 5 years is comparatively safe in the DGH setting. The training opportunities available at DGHs are invaluable to surgical trainees and vital for sustaining the future provision of GPS by such hospitals.

The Gerbil Jar: A Basic Home Experience in Operant Conditioning.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Plant, L.

1980-01-01

Explains how a teaching method such as allowing students to raise gerbils at home can encourage students to gain experience with the fundamental techniques of operant conditioning which are otherwise generally unavailable to students in large introductory psychology courses. (DB)

Student agreement regarding adequacy of didactic content and practical experiences of vaccination clinic business operations.

PubMed

George, David L; Johnson, Eric J; O'Neal, Katherine S; Smith, Michael J

2018-04-01

To report student perceived adequacy regarding didactic content and practical experiences of vaccination clinic business operations. Didactic content, a case study, and practical experiences regarding vaccination clinic business operations were implemented in related lectures of a Pharmacy Business and Entrepreneurship (PBE) elective and the college of pharmacy sponsored vaccination clinics. An online survey was used to evaluate student perceived adequacy of didactic content and practical experiences of vaccination clinic business operations. Mean scaled agreement was compared between students in the PBE elective versus those not in the elective. Student confidence in performing business operations was also assessed. Students in the PBE had higher mean confidence than non-elective students regarding staff management (3.23 vs. 2.73, p = 0.04). Success of the interventions may be attributed to students in the PBE elective that reported a higher mean perceived adequacy of content and practical experiences and confidence in performing nearly all business operations. Still, further evaluation of interventions is being considered to assess effectiveness of learning. Published by Elsevier Inc.

The Dark Energy Survey and Operations: Years 1 to 3

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Diehl, H. T.

2016-01-01

The Dark Energy Survey (DES) is an operating optical survey aimed at understanding the accelerating expansion of the universe using four complementary methods: weak gravitational lensing, galaxy cluster counts, baryon acoustic oscillations, and Type Ia supernovae. To perform the 5000 sq-degree wide field and 30 sq-degree supernova surveys, the DES Collaboration built the Dark Energy Camera (DECam), a 3 square-degree, 570-Megapixel CCD camera that was installed at the prime focus of the Blanco 4-meter telescope at the Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory (CTIO). DES has completed its third observing season out of a nominal five. This paper describes DES “Year 1”more » (Y1) to “Year 3” (Y3), the strategy, an outline of the survey operations procedures, the efficiency of operations and the causes of lost observing time. It provides details about the quality of the first three season's data, and describes how we are adjusting the survey strategy in the face of the El Niño Southern Oscillation« less

Predicting Community College Student Success by Participation in a First-Year Experience Course

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gardner, Andy Franklin

2013-01-01

A first-year experience is a collaborative effort of many initiatives, with varying names that have the greatest impact on student success during the first year of college. A first-year experience course, a feature of the first-year experience, is an intervention program designed to increase student academic performance and integration (Braxton…

Utility operational experience on the NASA/DOE Mod-OA 200 kW Wind Turbine

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Glasgow, J. C.; Robbins, W. H.

1979-01-01

The Mod-OA 200 kW Wind Turbine was designed and fabricated by the Lewis Research Center of the NASA under the direction of the U.S. Department of Energy. The project is a part of the Federal Wind Energy Program and is designed to obtain early wind turbine operation and performance data while gaining initial experience in the operation of large, horizontal axis wind turbines in typical utility environments. On March 6, 1978, the Mod-OA wind turbine was turned over to the Town of Clayton Light and Water Plant, Clayton, NM, for utility operation and on December 31, 1978 the machine had completed ten months of utility operation. This paper describes the machine and documents the recent operational experience at Clayton, NM.

Development and operating experience of a 1.1-m-long superconducting undulator at the Advanced Photon Source

DOE PAGES

Ivanyushenkov, Y.; Harkay, K.; Borland, M.; ...

2017-10-03

Development of superconducting undulators continues at the Advanced Photon Source (APS). Two years after successful installation and commissioning of the first relatively short superconducting undulator “SCU0” in Sector 6 of the APS storage ring, the second 1.1-m long superconducting undulator “SCU1” was installed in Sector 1 of the APS. The device has been in user operation since its commissioning in May 2015. This paper describes the magnetic and cryogenic design of the SCU1 together with the results of stand-alone cold tests. The SCU1’s magnetic and cryogenic performance as well as its operating experience in the APS storage ring are alsomore » presented.« less

Development and operating experience of a 1.1-m-long superconducting undulator at the Advanced Photon Source

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ivanyushenkov, Y.; Harkay, K.; Borland, M.

Development of superconducting undulators continues at the Advanced Photon Source (APS). Two years after successful installation and commissioning of the first relatively short superconducting undulator “SCU0” in Sector 6 of the APS storage ring, the second 1.1-m long superconducting undulator “SCU1” was installed in Sector 1 of the APS. The device has been in user operation since its commissioning in May 2015. This paper describes the magnetic and cryogenic design of the SCU1 together with the results of stand-alone cold tests. The SCU1’s magnetic and cryogenic performance as well as its operating experience in the APS storage ring are alsomore » presented.« less

42 CFR 417.413 - Qualifying condition: Operating experience and enrollment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICARE PROGRAM HEALTH MAINTENANCE ORGANIZATIONS, COMPETITIVE MEDICAL PLANS, AND HEALTH CARE PREPAYMENT PLANS Qualifying Conditions for Medicare Contracts § 417.413..., as appropriate. (b) Standard: Enrollment and operating experience for HMOs or CMPs to contract on a...

Development and Operation of a MUMPS Laboratory Information System: A Decade's Experience

PubMed Central

Miller, R. E.; Causey, J. P.; Moore, G. W.; Wilk, G. E.

1988-01-01

We describe more than a decade's experience with inhouse development and operation of a clinical laboratory computer system written in the MUMPS programming language for a 1000 bed teaching hospital. The JHLIS is a networked minicomputer system that supports accessioning, instrument monitoring, and result reporting for over 3000 specimens and 30,000 test results daily. Development and operation of the system accounts for 6% of the budget of the laboratories which have had a 70% increase in workload over the past decade. Our experience with purchased MUMPS software maintained and enhanced inhouse suggests an attractive alternative to lengthy inhouse development.

Laparoscopic adenomectomy: 10 years of experience.

PubMed

Carpio Villanueva, J; Rosales Bordes, A; Ponce de León Roca, J; Montlleó González, M; Caparrós Sariol, J; Villavicencio Mavrich, H

2018-04-01

Lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to increased prostate volume are associated with ageing and are becoming more prevalent due to increased life expectancy. We present our experience with transperitoneal laparoscopic adenomectomy for the management of bladder outlet obstruction caused by benign prostatic enlargement. We performed a retrospective review of patients who underwent laparoscopic adenomectomy between 2005 and 2015. We recorded age, maximum flow and postvoid residual urine (preoperative and postoperative), surgical time, operative bleeding, weight and pathology, complications and duration of catheterisation and hospitalisation. We included 80 patients with a mean age of 70 years. The mean preoperative and postoperative Qmax was 8.21mL/s and 22.52mL/s, respectively. The mean preoperative and postoperative postvoid residual urine was 91.4mL and 14.2mL, respectively. The mean surgical time was 137.7min. Conversion to open surgery was necessary in one case due to intestinal injury. The mean intraoperative bleeding was 227.6mL. The mean hospital stay was 5.46 days, and the catheterisation time was 4.86 days. There were 13 complications, which were recorded according to the Clavien-Dindo system, 3 of which were severe. The mean weight of the surgical specimen was 80.02g. Pathology showed benign hyperplasia in 75 cases and prostate cancer in the remaining 5. Laparoscopic adenomectomy is a safe, reproducible technique with the same functional results as open surgery. Our series shows that this approach is useful and safe and has a low rate of complications. Copyright © 2017 AEU. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Financial protection against nuclear hazards: thirty years' experience under the Price-Anderson Act

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Rockett, L.R.; Hayn, I.

1984-01-01

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the operation of the Price-Anderson Act in the light of the last 10 years' experience and the changes that have occurred during that period both in the law and regulations and in the nuclear and insurance industries, and to provide an independent analysis of various proposals to extend or amend the Act prior to its 1987 expiration. The report does not analyze the impact of the Silkwood v. Kerr McGee Corp. decision. The five chapters cover historical background, financial protection under the Price-Anderson Act and in the absence of the Act, fundamentalmore » policy issues, and alternative proposals.« less

Identifying Attrition Risk Based on the First Year Experience

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Naylor, Ryan; Baik, Chi; Arkoudis, Sophia

2018-01-01

Using data collected from a recent national survey of Australian first-year students, this paper defines and validates four scales--belonging, feeling supported, intellectual engagement and workload stress--to measure the student experience of university. These scales provide insights into the university experience for both groups and individual…

Falls From Agricultural Machinery: Risk Factors Related to Work Experience, Worked Hours, and Operators' Behavior.

PubMed

Caffaro, Federica; Roccato, Michele; Micheletti Cremasco, Margherita; Cavallo, Eugenio

2018-02-01

Objective We investigated the risk factors for falls when egressing from agricultural tractors, analyzing the role played by worked hours, work experience, operators' behavior, and near misses. Background Many accidents occur within the agricultural sector each year. Among them, falls while dismounting the tractor represent a major source of injuries. Previous studies pointed out frequent hazardous movements and incorrect behaviors adopted by operators to exit the tractor cab. However, less is known about the determinants of such behaviors. In addition, near misses are known to be important predictors of accidents, but they have been under-investigated in the agricultural sector in general and as concerns falls in particular. Method A questionnaire assessing dismounting behaviors, previous accidents and near misses, and participants' relation with work was administered to a sample of Italian tractor operators ( n = 286). Results A mediated model showed that worked hours increase unsafe behaviors, whereas work experience decreases them. Unsafe behaviors in turn show a positive association with accidents, via the mediation of near misses. Conclusions We gave a novel contribution to the knowledge of the chain of events leading to fall accidents in the agricultural sector, which is one of the most hazardous industries. Applications Besides tractor design improvements, preventive training interventions may focus on the redesign of the actual working strategies and the adoption of engaging training methods in the use of machinery to optimize the learning of safety practices and safe behaviors.

Lung transplantation in Hong Kong: 12 years of experience.

PubMed

Wong, Chi Fong; Fung, Siu Leung; Yan, See Wan; Lee, Joseph; Cheng, Lik Cheung; Chiu, Clement S W

2008-11-01

A lung transplant programme was launched in August 1994 at Grantham Hospital in Hong Kong with the first single-lung transplant performed in July 1995. A retrospective study was undertaken of all patients who had undergone lung transplantation and their outcomes analysed. Data were collected from hospital and outpatient records. There were 12 transplants (two single-lung and 10 double-lung) performed in the 12 years to December 2006. No postoperative or early mortality was observed. In addition to the usual complications there were two cases of early pulmonary tuberculosis and one rare case of delayed fungal sternotomy infection. The 1-year, 3-year and 5-year survival rates were 100%, 100% and 76.2%, respectively. All fatalities were related to the consequences of chronic rejection or its treatment. Despite the limited experience and the small case volume, the survival of patients was good and comparable with international experience.

Operational experience on the MP-200 series commercial wind turbine generators

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rose, M. B.

1982-01-01

The MP-200 wind turbine generator is described. The mechanical system, microprocessor controller, and display devices, are described. Also discussed are modifications to the prototype, operational experience, and MP-600 systems development.

SMART-1 operations experience and lessons learnt

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Camino, Octavio; Alonso, Maria; Gestal, Daniel; de Bruin, Jurriaan; Rathsman, Peter; Kugelberg, Joakim; Bodin, Per; Ricken, Sascha; Blake, Rick; Voss, Pablo Pardo; Stagnaro, Luca

2007-06-01

SMART-1 is the first of a series of ESA Small Missions for Advance Research and Technology where elements of the platform and the payload technology have been conceived as a demonstration for future cornerstone missions and an early opportunity for science. SMART-1 has also been an opportunity to experiment with new ways of conducting ground operations taking advantage of both increased satellite autonomy and ground automation tools. The paper will focus on three areas: The accumulated performance of the technology demonstration components since launch as the electrical propulsion engine, the triple-junction solar cells, the lithium-ion batteries, the 32 bit CPU ERC32 Single Chip, the CAN bus, the DTU Star Trackers and the complex on-board autonomy. The changes implemented on-board and on the ground during the lunar phase to increase the data return. The pros and contras in some of the choices made for SMART-1, the developments and solutions implemented to mitigate the problems, the tools developed to automate the operations and the distribution of data.

The Freshman Year Experience. Helping Students Survive and Succeed in College.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Upcraft, M. Lee; Gardner, John N.

Guidelines to enhancing the freshman year experience are presented in the following chapters: (1) "A Comprehensive Approach to Enhancing Freshman Success" (M. Lee Upcraft, John N. Gardner); (2) "Who Are Today's Freshmen?" (Arthur Levine); (3) "A Historical Look at the Freshman Year Experience" (John Orr Dwyer); (4) "Understanding Student…

Five year global dataset: NMC operational analyses (1978 to 1982)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Straus, David; Ardizzone, Joseph

1987-01-01

This document describes procedures used in assembling a five year dataset (1978 to 1982) using NMC Operational Analysis data. These procedures entailed replacing missing and unacceptable data in order to arrive at a complete dataset that is continuous in time. In addition, a subjective assessment on the integrity of all data (both preliminary and final) is presented. Documentation on tapes comprising the Five Year Global Dataset is also included.

[Experience with games in operative groups as part of health education for diabetics].

PubMed

Torres, Heloisa de Carvalho; Hortale, Virginia Alonso; Schall, Virginia

2003-01-01

This paper presents and discusses an educational strategy implemented in a specialized hospital clinic. The goal was to stimulate individuals to reflect on their everyday lifestyles as related to their disease, specifically diabetes mellitus. The strategy can be characterized as an educational tool from the perspective of health promotion and disease prevention and control. The experience was implemented on an interactive basis (health professionals and individual patients) with educational games in operative groups. Pedagogical techniques were used: orientation concerning diabetes mellitus, individual consultation, the operative group, and educational games (communications and learning). The techniques enabled participants to improve knowledge and exchange experiences. In addition, the health professionals gained a better understanding of the participants' experience with their illness.

The Small Aircraft Transportation System Higher Volume Operations (SATS HVO) Flight Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Williams, Daniel M.; Murdoch, Jennifer L.; Adams, Catherine H.

2005-01-01

This paper provides a summary of conclusions from the Small Aircraft Transportation System (SATS) Higher Volume Operations (HVO) Flight Experiment which NASA conducted to determine pilot acceptability of the HVO concept for normal conditions. The SATS HVO concept improves efficiency at non-towered, non-radar airports in Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC) while achieving a level of safety equal to today s system. Reported are results from flight experiment data that indicate that the SATS HVO concept is viable. The success of the SATS HVO concept is based on acceptable pilot workload, performance, and subjective criteria when compared to the procedural control operations in use today at non-towered, non-radar controlled airfields in IMC. The HVO Flight Experiment, flown on NASA's Cirrus SR22, used a subset of the HVO Simulation Experiment scenarios and evaluation pilots in order to validate the simulation experiment results. HVO and Baseline (today s system) scenarios flown included: single aircraft arriving for a GPS non-precision approach; aircraft arriving for the approach with multiple traffic aircraft; and aircraft arriving for the approach with multiple traffic aircraft and then conducting a missed approach. Results reveal that all twelve low-time instrument-rated pilots preferred SATS HVO when compared to current procedural separation operations. These pilots also flew the HVO procedures safely and proficiently without additional workload in comparison to today s system (Baseline). Detailed results of pilot flight technical error, and their subjective assessments of workload and situation awareness are presented in this paper.

Rumination, Age, and Years of Experience: A Predictive Study of Burnout

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McDuffy, Moriel S.

2016-01-01

This study used a non-experimental design to examine whether job satisfaction, rumination, age and years of experience predict burnout among human service workers serving high-risk populations. The study also used a stepwise regression to assess whether job satisfaction, rumination, age, or years of experience predict burnout equally. Burnout was…

Triple valve surgery: a 25-year experience.

PubMed

Yilmaz, Mustafa; Ozkan, Murat; Böke, Erkmen

2004-09-01

Surgical treatment of rheumatic valvular disease still constitutes a significant number of cardiac operations in developing countries. Despite improvements in myocardial protection and cardiopulmonary bypass techniques, triple valve operations (aortic, mitral and tricuspid valves) are still challenging because of longer duration of cardiopulmonary bypass and higher degree of myocardial decompensation. This study was instituted in order to assess results of triple valve surgery. Between 1977 and 2002, 34 patients underwent triple valve surgery in our clinic by the same surgeon (EB). Eleven patients underwent triple valve replacement (32.4%) and 23 underwent tricuspid valve annuloplasty with aortic and mitral valve replacements (67.6%). There was no significant difference between the two groups of patients who underwent triple valve replacement and aortic and mitral valve replacement with tricuspid valve annuloplasty. There were 4 hospital deaths (11.8%) occurring within 30 days. The duration of follow-up for 30 survivors ranged from 6 to 202 months (mean 97 months). The actuarial survival rates were 85%, 72%, and 48% at 5, 10, and 15 years respectively. Actuarial freedom from reoperation rates at 5, 10, and 15 years was 86.3%, 71.9%, and 51.2%, respectively. Freedom from cerebral thromboembolism and anticoagulation-related hemorrhage rates, expressed in actuarial terms was 75.9% and 62.9% at 5 and 10 years. Major cerebral complications occurred in 10 of the 30 patients. We prefer replacing, if repairing is not possible, the tricuspid valve, with a bileaflet mechanical prosthesis in a patient with valve replacement of the left heart who will be anticoagulated in order to avoid unfavorable properties of bioprosthesis like degeneration and of old generation mechanical prosthesis like thrombosis and poor hemodynamic function. In recent years, results of triple valve surgery either with tricuspid valve conservation or valve replacement in suitable cases have become

The US Military’s Experience in Stability Operations, 1789-2005

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-01-01

better trained in IO technical procedures than they were in how to produce a persuasive message . In the Dominican Republic in 1965, for example, the ...Yates, provides his thoughts and analysis of the US Army’s participation in stability operations (SO) since 1789. Dr. Yates, a member of the CSI Team...experience in the conduct of stability operations prior to the Global War on Terrorism can be divided chronologically into four periods: the country’s

My Experience as NASN School Nurse of the Year

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Reilly, Dorothy J.

2004-01-01

This article shares the author's experience as the National Association of School Nurses (NASN) School Nurse of the Year. Recognition by one's peers for excellence in the profession is indeed an honor and a humbling experience. She states that it was a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with many NASN friends. Special recognition and awards from…

Two years' experience with Web-based teleconsulting in dermatology.

PubMed

Massone, C; Soyer, H P; Hofmann-Wellenhof, R; Di Stefani, A; Lozzi, G P; Gabler, G; Dong, H; Argenziano, G; Ozdemir, F; Fink-Puches, R; Salmhofer, W; Zalaudek, I; Nunzi, E; Kerl, H

2006-01-01

A non-commercial teledermatology network based on store-and-forward operation was established in April 2002. The aim was to create an easy-to-use platform for teleconsultation services, where physicians could seek diagnostic advice in dermatology from a pool of expert consultants and where they could present and discuss challenging dermatology cases with special emphasis on diagnosis and therapy. An online moderated discussion forum was added in October 2003. During the first two years, 348 health-care professionals from 45 countries registered to use the Website. A total of 783 requests for consultations were answered; 285 requests concerned pigmented skin lesions, 440 requests were from the whole range of clinical dermatology and 58 requests were about non-melanoma skin cancer. Of a total of 133 requests analysed, 80 (60%) were answered within one day, 47 (35%) within one week, five (4%) within two weeks and one (1%) consultation was answered in more than two weeks. Our experience with a discretionary, non-commercial, multilingual Website for open-access teleconsulting in dermatology appears to be successful. The Website represents an example of user-generated content, together with active interaction between users, who can present and discuss cases with remote colleagues.

Whipple procedure: a review of a 7-year clinical experience in a referral center for hepatobiliary and pancreas diseases.

PubMed

Saraee, Amir; Vahedian-Ardakani, Jalal; Saraee, Ehsan; Pakzad, Roshanak; Wadji, Massoud Baghai

2015-03-11

Pancreatic cancer is generally found in the older population Pancreaticoduodenectomy seems to be the only way in resolving these resectable tumors. Allen. O Whipple was the first to describe pancreaticoduodenectomy in 1935 as a modified procedure. This article is a case series with respect to the 7-year experience of the Whipple procedure in Firoozgar Teaching Hospital. Patient surgery details were gathered from the surgical records of the operating room and their clinical records from the hospital archives. Data was analyzed with SPSS software (version 16.0.1). Those patients, whose tumor had invaded the superior mesenteric artery, had extensive portal vein involvement or distant metastasis was considered as unresectable. The first Whipple procedure was recorded in our hospital in 2008. From 2008 till 20 March 2014, 70 cases were collected and analyzed. The mean age of cases was 58.4 years, the mean hospital stay length was 12.9 days (±6.23 days), mean operation time was 376 min (±37.3 min),. The most common presenting symptom was jaundice (78.6 %). Delayed gastric emptying was the most common post-operative complication. The most prevalent cause of reoperation was intra-abdominal abscess. Major morbidities of these patients consisted of cardiac arrhythmias (21.4%) and pneumonia (10%). Minor complications were wound infection (17.1%) and delayed gastric emptying (32.9%). The statistics revealed pancreatic anastomosis failure as 2.9% and a decrease in mortality rate from 50% during the first years of this study to 16% to 20% during the last years. In this case series, the time of operation decreased during the recent years .Analysis shows a correlation between operation time and pack cell transfused during the operation, but no correlation was found between operation time and post-operation hospitalization course. It is true that hospital setting, socioeconomic level of the patients including their compliance, and the expertise of the surgeons and surgical staff

Influence of operator experience and PCI volume on transfemoral access techniques: A collaboration of international cardiovascular societies.

PubMed

Nelson, Daniel W; Damluji, Abdulla A; Patel, Nish; Valgimigli, Marco; Windecker, Stephan; Byrne, Robert; Nolan, James; Patel, Tejas; Brilakis, Emmanouil; Banerjee, Subhash; Mayol, Jorge; Cantor, Warren J; Alfonso, Carlos E; Rao, Sunil V; Moscucci, Mauro; Cohen, Mauricio G

2018-03-01

Transfemoral access (TFA) is widely used for coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). The influence of operator age, gender, experience, and procedural volume on performance of femoral arterial access has not been studied. A survey instrument was developed and distributed via e-mail from professional societies to interventional cardiologists worldwide from March to December 2016. A total of 988 physicians from 88 countries responded to the survey. TFA is the preferred approach for patients with cardiogenic shock, left main or bifurcation PCI, and procedures with mechanical circulatory support. Older (<50years: 56.4%; ≥50years: 66.8%, p<0.0039) and high PCI volume operators (<100 PCI: 57.3%; 100-299 PCI: 58.7%; ≥300 PCI: 64.3%, p<0.134) preferred palpation only without imaging (fluoroscopy or ultrasound (US)) for TFA. Most respondents preferred not to use micropuncture needle to puncture the femoral artery. Older (≥50years: 64.4%; <50years: 71.5%, p<0.04) and high PCI volume operators (≥300 PCI: 64.1%; 100-299 PCI: 72.6%; <100 PCI: 67.9%, p<0.072) tended not to perform femoral angiography (FA). Of those performing FA, the majority opted to do it at the end of the procedure. Despite best practice guideline recommendations, older and high PCI volume interventional cardiologists prefer not to use imaging for femoral access or perform femoral angiography during TF procedures. These data highlight opportunities to further reduce TFA complications. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Human Factors in Railroad Operations : Activities in Fiscal Year 1973

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1974-02-01

This is an interim report covering human factors services rendered by TSC to the FRA under the project: "Human Factors in Railroad Operations," during fiscal year 1973. It reviews all activities briefly and contains more detailed reports on a researc...

[Low field intra-operative magnetic resonance imaging for brain tumour surgery: preliminary experience].

PubMed

Roldán, Pedro; García, Sergio; González, Josep; Reyes, Luis Alberto; Torales, Jorge; Valero, Ricard; Oleaga, Laura; Enseñat, Joaquim

Intra-operative magnetic resonance imaging (iMRI) is a recently introduced tool in the most advanced neurosurgical operating rooms worldwide. We present our preliminary experience in brain tumour surgery with low field PoleStar N30® intraoperative MRI since its introduction in 2013 in the Barcelona Clinic Hospital. A prospective non-randomised study was conducted on cases operated on using iMRI and intention of complete removal up to October 2015. A record was made of the data as regards surgical times, resection rates, histological diagnosis, hospital stay, and survival rates during follow-up. The study included 50 patients, with a mean age of 55 years (±13.7), a preoperative mean Karnofsky of 92 (being 81 post-operatively), and a mean follow-up of 10.5 months (±6.5). There were 26% re-operations due to recurrence. High-grade gliomas were reported in 56%, low-grade gliomas in 24%, and 20% "Other" tumours. Overall hospital stay was 10 days (±4.5). Depending on the histologiacl diagnosis, the "Others" group had a longer hospital stay. Overall, there were 52% complete removal, 18% of maximum removals, and 30% of partial removals. The overall survival rates during follow-up was 84%. iMRI is a safe and effective tool for brain tumour surgery. Its use allows an increase in resection rates, and minimises post-operative complications. Its implementation involves an increase in surgical time, which improves with the characteristic learning curve. More studies are needed to establish its role in the long-term survival of patients. Copyright © 2016 Sociedad Española de Neurocirugía. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Biodegradable fixation for craniomaxillofacial surgery: a 10-year experience involving 761 operations and 745 patients

PubMed Central

Turvey, T. A.; Proffit, W. P.; Phillips, C.

2011-01-01

Patient acceptance, safety, and efficacy of poly-L/DL-lactic acid (PLLDL) bone plates and screws in craniomaxillofacial surgery are reported in this article. Included in the sample are 745 patients who underwent 761 separate operations, including more than 1400 surgical procedures (orthognathic surgery (685), bone graft reconstruction (37), trauma (191) and transcranial surgery (20)). The success (no breakage or inflammation requiring additional operating room treatment) was 94%. Failure occurred because of breakage (14) or exuberant inflammation (31). All breakage occurred at mandibular sites and the majority of inflammatory failure occurred in the maxilla or orbit (29), with only two in the mandible. Failures were evenly distributed between the two major vendors. PLLDL 70/30 bone plates and screws may be used successfully in a variety of craniomaxillofacial surgical applications. The advantages include the gradual transference of physiological forces to the healing bone, the reduced need for a second operation to remove the material and its potential to serve as a vehicle to deliver bone-healing proteins to fracture/osteotomy sites. Bone healing was noted at all sites, even where exuberant inflammation required a second surgical intervention. PMID:21185695

Twelve years' experience of computer-aided diagnosis in a district general hospital.

PubMed Central

McAdam, W. A.; Brock, B. M.; Armitage, T.; Davenport, P.; Chan, M.; de Dombal, F. T.

1990-01-01

This paper describes experience in a modern district general hospital with a small desktop system for computer-aided diagnosis of acute abdominal pain, over a 12-year period involving 5512 cases. When compared with a baseline year (1973) in which unaided performance was monitored, during an initial study period (1974-76) the diagnostic accuracy of junior staff rose by between 10 and 15%. This higher performance level was then maintained for a decade (1976-86) despite changes in staff. The perforation rate among appendicitis cases fell from 27% to 12.5%, accompanied by a smaller fall in negative laparotomy rates. The saving in surgical bednights devoted to acute abdominal pain was approximately 15%, and the notional cost of resources saved during the first 6 years of operation was 120,000 pounds. Other hospitals have shown--in the short term--benefits similar to those obtained at Airedale District General Hospital. The long-term benefits of the system at Airedale reinforce the conclusions of the earlier short-term trials that a comparable system should probably be offered to all DGHs in the UK, not as an exercise in 'artificial intelligence' but as an effective continuing stimulus to good clinical practice. PMID:2185682

Surgery in the Horn of Africa: a 1-year experience of an American-sponsored surgical residency in Eritrea.

PubMed

Khambaty, Fatima M; Ayas, Huda M; Mezghebe, Haile M

2010-08-01

To describe the 1-year experience of a unique postgraduate medical education program set in Eritrea, a recently war-torn country. The Partnership for Eritrea, a cooperative between The George Washington University Medical Center, Physicians for Peace, and the Eritrean Ministry of Health, formed a surgical residency program, launched January 2, 2008, in Asmara, Eritrea, to train native Eritrean surgeons. No prior residency program (to our knowledge) had existed in Eritrea. Eritrea, a country in the Horn of Africa. Five Eritrean physicians participated in the surgical residency. The number of operations performed, length of stay, antibiotic use, and intravenous fluid use. The number of operations increased and resource use decreased because of improved and standardized clinical management. The Partnership for Eritrea established a general surgical residency program that improved clinical care in a resource-poor country that previously had lacked postgraduate training. The program experience suggests a model that can be reproduced in other developing countries.

Emotional Experience Improves With Age: Evidence Based on Over 10 Years of Experience Sampling

PubMed Central

Carstensen, Laura L.; Turan, Bulent; Scheibe, Susanne; Ram, Nilam; Ersner-Hershfield, Hal; Samanez-Larkin, Gregory R.; Brooks, Kathryn P.; Nesselroade, John R.

2012-01-01

Recent evidence suggests that emotional well-being improves from early adulthood to old age. This study used experience-sampling to examine the developmental course of emotional experience in a representative sample of adults spanning early to very late adulthood. Participants (N = 184, Wave 1; N = 191, Wave 2; N = 178, Wave 3) reported their emotional states at five randomly selected times each day for a one week period. Using a measurement burst design, the one-week sampling procedure was repeated five and then ten years later. Cross-sectional and growth curve analyses indicate that aging is associated with more positive overall emotional well-being, with greater emotional stability and with more complexity (as evidenced by greater co-occurrence of positive and negative emotions). These findings remained robust after accounting for other variables that may be related to emotional experience (personality, verbal fluency, physical health, and demographic variables). Finally, emotional experience predicted mortality; controlling for age, sex, and ethnicity, individuals who experienced relatively more positive than negative emotions in everyday life were more likely to have survived over a 13 year period. Findings are discussed in the theoretical context of socioemotional selectivity theory. PMID:20973600

IRIS Mission Operations Director's Colloquium

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carvalho, Robert; Mazmanian, Edward A.

2014-01-01

Pursuing the Mysteries of the Sun: The Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph (IRIS) Mission. Flight controllers from the IRIS mission will present their individual experiences on IRIS from development through the first year of flight. This will begin with a discussion of the unique nature of IRISs mission and science, and how it fits into NASA's fleet of solar observatories. Next will be a discussion of the critical roles Ames contributed in the mission including spacecraft and flight software development, ground system development, and training for launch. This will be followed by experiences from launch, early operations, ongoing operations, and unusual operations experiences. The presentation will close with IRIS science imagery and questions.

One Year of FOS Measurements in CMS Experiment at CERN

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Szillási, Zoltán; Buontempo, Salvatore; Béni, Noémi; Breglio, Giovanni; Cusano, Andrea; Laudati, Armando; Giordano, Michele; Saccomanno, Andrea; Druzhkin, Dmitry; Tsirou, Andromachi

Results are presented on the activity carried out by our research group, in collaboration with the SME Optosmart s.r.l. (an Italian spin-off company), on the application of Fiber Optic Sensor (FOS) techniques to monitor high-energy physics (HEP) detectors. Assuming that Fiber Bragg Grating sensors (FBGs) radiation hardness has been deeply studied for other field of application, we have applied the FBG technology to the HEP research domain. We present here the experimental evidences of the solid possibility to use such a class of sensors also in HEP detector very complex environmental side conditions. In particular we present more than one year data results of FBG measurements in the Compact Muon Solenoid (CMS) experiment set up at the CERN, where we have monitored temperatures (within CMS core) and strains in different locations by using FBG sensors during the detector operation with the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) collisions and high magnetic field. FOS data and FOS readout system stability and reliability is demonstrated, with continuous 24/24 h 7/7d data taking under severe and complex side conditions.

First Year Experience: How We Can Better Assist First-Year International Students in Higher Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yan, Zi; Sendall, Patricia

2016-01-01

While many American colleges and universities are providing a First Year Experience (FYE) course or program for their first year students, those programs are not often customized to take into account international students' (IS) unique challenges. Using quantitative and qualitative methods, this study evaluated a FYE course that was customized for…

Two decades of experience with the Ross operation in neonates, infants and children from the Italian Paediatric Ross Registry.

PubMed

Luciani, Giovanni Battista; Lucchese, Gianluca; Carotti, Adriano; Brancaccio, Gianluca; Abbruzzese, Piero; Caianiello, Giuseppe; Galletti, Lorenzo; Gargiulo, Gaetano Domenico; Marianeschi, Stefano Maria; Mazzucco, Alessandro; Faggian, Giuseppe; Murzi, Bruno; Pace Napoleone, Carlo; Pozzi, Marco; Zannini, Lucio; Frigiola, Alessandro

2014-12-01

Children undergoing Ross operation were expected to have longer autograft, but shorter homograft durability compared with adults. In order to define the outcome in the second decade after Ross operation in children, a nationwide review of 23 years of experience was undertaken. 305 children underwent Ross operation in 11 paediatric units between 1990 and 2012. Age at surgery was 9.4±5.7 years, indication aortic stenosis in 103 patients, regurgitation in 109 and mixed lesion in 93. 116 (38%) patients had prior procedures. Root replacement was performed in 201 patients, inclusion cylinder in 14, subcoronary grafting in 17 and Ross-Konno in 73. There were 10 (3.3%) hospital and 12 late deaths (median follow-up 8.7 years). Survival was 93±2% and 89±3% and freedom from any reoperation was 76±3% and 67±6% at 10 and 15 years. 34 children had autograft 37 reoperations (25 replacement, 12 repair): three required transplantation after reoperation. Freedom from autograft reoperation was 86±3% and 75±6% at 10 and 15 years. 32 children had right heart redo procedures, and only 25 (78%) conduit replacements (15-year freedom from replacement, 89±4%). Prior operation (p=0.031), subcoronary implant (p=0.025) and concomitant surgical procedure (p=0.004) were risk factors for left heart reoperation, while infant age (p=0.015) was for right heart. The majority (87%) of late survivors were in NYHA class I, 68% free from medication and six women had pregnancies. Despite low hospital risk and satisfactory late survival, paediatric Ross operation bears substantial valve-related morbidity in the first two decades. Contrary to expectation, autograft reoperation is more common than homograft. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

Congenital megaprepuce: a 12-year experience (52 cases) of this specific form of buried penis.

PubMed

Rod, Julien; Desmonts, Alexis; Petit, Thierry; Ravasse, Philippe

2013-12-01

Congenital megaprepuce is a specific form of buried penis. Children affected by this malformation usually suffer from a subjective difficulty in voiding which is the main indication for early surgical correction. The aim of this study was to report a single center's 12-year experience in the treatment of megaprepuce in children, describing the surgical procedure we used to treat it and the results. We retrospectively reviewed the charts of all children who underwent congenital megaprepuce repair between January 1999 and August 2011 in our institution. Fifty-two children were operated during the study period. Our single surgical technique, not an original one, consists of fixing the penile shaft at the base of the penis, and widely reducing the inner prepuce. Four children (8%) underwent revision surgery but according to our criteria a very good result was observed in only 23 patients, and a less good but still acceptable result in 25 patients. Our 12-year experience in the surgical treatment of congenital megaprepuce demonstrated satisfying results from a safe and simple surgical technique, but to achieve the optimum result remains difficult. Copyright © 2012 Journal of Pediatric Urology Company. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

17 CFR 240.17Ad-21T - Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 17 Commodity and Securities Exchanges 3 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment. 240.17Ad-21T Section 240.17Ad-21T Commodity and Securities Exchanges SECURITIES... Company Rules § 240.17Ad-21T Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment. (a) This section applies...

Fiscal Year 1998 Higher Education Budget Recommendations. Operations and Grants.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Illinois State Board of Higher Education, Springfield.

This report summarizes staff recommendations of the Illinois Board of Higher Education concerning budget recommendations for higher education operations and grants for fiscal year 1998. The report also includes recommendations for state appropriated revolving funds, locally held university income funds, and other appropriated funds. Specific…

First-Year Practicum Experiences for Preservice Early Childhood Education Teachers Working with Birth-to-3-Year-Olds: An Australasian Experience

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

White, E. Jayne; Peter, Mira; Sims, Margaret; Rockel, Jean; Kumeroa, Maureen

2016-01-01

This article reports on a project, "Collaboration of Universities Pedagogies of Infants' and Toddlers' Development-'down under' (CUPID)," in which the practicum experiences of 1st-year preservice initial teacher education (ITE) students at five universities across Australia and New Zealand (NZ) engaging in early childhood education (ECE)…

Ten years of the project Chain Experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Susman, Katarina; Ziherl, Saša; Bajc, Jurij

2017-05-01

In this paper the project Chain Experiment is presented. It can be viewed as a competition or as a popularization activity for science, technology, and physics in particular. We present the basic idea of a toppling-domino-like chain of contraptions that are operated one after another, and each demonstrates different physical phenomena. The evolution into its current form with three different types of activities is briefly described. The emphasis of the paper is on the impact of the project on physics education. The ways in which physics students, physics teachers, and participating pupils profit from the different project activities are presented in detail.

Polyurethane-covered mammary implants: a 12-year experience.

PubMed

Gasperoni, C; Salgarello, M; Gargani, G

1992-10-01

Polyurethane-covered mammary implants are the implants of choice in aesthetic and reconstructive mammary surgery. These implants give very good results in regard to breast contour and consistency, and have a very low complication rate. We present our 12-year experience using polyurethane-covered prostheses. We place the implant mostly in the subglandular or subcutaneous site, and their capsular contracture rate is extremely low (3.3%). Based on our experience, we also review the other complications and side effects occurring with polyurethane prostheses and discuss them in detail.

Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD): The First-Year Postsecondary Educational Experience

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shook Torres, Elizabeth

2014-01-01

This study utilized a qualitative case study interview methodology to explore the transition to postsecondary education and first-year postsecondary educational experiences of four students with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). This research provided a comprehensive understanding of the first-year postsecondary educational experience of the…

The experience of Taiwan photon source commissioning and operation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Y. C.; Chen, C. H.; Y Chen, J.; Chiu, M. S.; Chou, P. J.; Huang, C. S.; Fann, Sam; Kuo, C. C.; Y Lee, T.; Liang, C. C.; Luo, G. H.; Tsai, H. J.; Tseng, F. H.

2017-07-01

TPS commissioning occurred between August 2014 and March 2016. The experience of phase I (bare lattice 2014.8∼2015.3) and phase II (SRF and insertion devices 2015.9∼2016.3) commissioning will be discussed. The Taiwan Photon Source (TPS) started user operation in March 2016 and delivery of user time has reached 3,211 hours in 2016. Continuous improvements of integrated accelerator performance and future developments are described and discussed.

Transportability, distributability and rehosting experience with a kernel operating system interface set

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Blumberg, F. C.; Reedy, A.; Yodis, E.

1986-01-01

For the past two years, PRC has been transporting and installing a software engineering environment framework, the Automated Product control Environment (APCE), at a number of PRC and government sites on a variety of different hardware. The APCE was designed using a layered architecture which is based on a standardized set of interfaces to host system services. This interface set called the APCE Interface Set (AIS), was designed to support many of the same goals as the Common Ada Programming Support Environment (APSE) Interface Set (CAIS). The APCE was developed to provide support for the full software lifecycle. Specific requirements of the APCE design included: automation of labor intensive administrative and logistical tasks: freedom for project team members to use existing tools: maximum transportability for APCE programs, interoperability of APCE database data, and distributability of both processes and data: and maximum performance on a wide variety of operating systems. A brief description is given of the APCE and AIS, a comparison of the AIS and CAIS both in terms of functionality and of philosophy and approach and a presentation of PRC's experience in rehosting AIS and transporting APCE programs and project data. Conclusions are drawn from this experience with respect to both the CAIS efforts and Space Station plans.

CMS tier structure and operation of the experiment-specific tasks in Germany

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nowack, A.

2008-07-01

In Germany, several university institutes and research centres take part in the CMS experiment. Concerning the data analysis, a couple of computing centres at different Tier levels, ranging from Tier 1 to Tier 3, exists at these places. The German Tier 1 centre GridKa at the research centre at Karlsruhe serves all four LHC experiments as well as four non-LHC experiments. With respect to the CMS experiment, GridKa is mainly involved in central tasks. The Tier 2 centre in Germany consists of two sites, one at the research centre DESY at Hamburg and one at RWTH Aachen University, forming a federated Tier 2 centre. Both parts cover different aspects of a Tier 2 centre. The German Tier 3 centres are located at the research centre DESY at Hamburg, at RWTH Aachen University, and at the University of Karlsruhe. Furthermore the building of a German user analysis facility is planned. Since the CMS community in German is rather small, a good cooperation between the different sites is essential. This cooperation includes physical topics as well as technical and operational issues. All available communication channels such as email, phone, monthly video conferences, and regular personal meetings are used. For example, the distribution of data sets is coordinated globally within Germany. Also the CMS-specific services such as the data transfer tool PhEDEx or the Monte Carlo production are operated by people from different sites in order to spread the knowledge widely and increase the redundancy in terms of operators.

THE EXPERIENCE IN THE UNITED STATES WITH REACTOR OPERATION AND REACTOR SAFEGUARDS

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

McCullough, C.R.

1958-10-31

Reactors are operating or planned at locations in the United States in cities, near cities, and at remote locations. There is a general pattern that the higher power reactors are not in, but fairly uear cities, and the testing reactors for more hazardous experiments are at remote locations. A great deal has been done on the theoretical and experimental study of importunt features of reactor design. The metal-water reaction is still a theoretical possibility but tests of fuel element burnout under conditions approaching reactor operation gave no reaction. It appears that nucleate boiling does not necessarily result in steam blanketingmore » and fuel melting. Much attention is being given to the calculation of core kinetics but it is being found that temperature, power, and void coefficients cannot be calculated with accuracy and experiments are required. Some surprises are found giving positive localized void coefficients. Possible oscillatory behavior of reactors is being given careful study. No dangerous oscillations have been found in operating reactors but osciliations hare appeared in experimeats. The design of control and safety systems varies wvith different constructors. The relation of control to the kinetic behavior of the reactor is being studied. The importance of sensing element locations in order to know actual local reactor power level is being recognized. The time constants of instrumentation as related to reactor kinetics are being studied. Pressure vessels for reactors are being designed and manufactured. Many of these are beyond any previous experience. The stress problem is being given careful study. The effect of radiation is being studied experimentally. The stress problems of piping and pressure vessels is a difficult design problem being met successfully in reactor plants. The proper organization and procedure for operation of reactors is being evolved for resourch, testing, and power reactors. The importance of written standards and

Fiscal Year 1999 Higher Education Budget Recommendations. Operations and Grants.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Illinois State Board of Higher Education, Springfield.

This report presents staff recommendations of the Illinois Board of Higher Education concerning budget recommendations for higher education operations and grants for fiscal year 1999. General funds recommendations total $2,207.1 million, an increase of 6.1 percent over 1998 appropriations. Recommendations are also included for locally-held…

The UoSAT-5 solar cell experiment: First year in orbit

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goodbody, C.

1993-01-01

The results for the first year in orbit of the DRA solar cell experiment flying on the Surrey University UoSAT-5 satellite are described. Several problems were identified with the measured data, which are discussed along with the techniques used to remove or minimize the effect of the problems. After 1 year in orbit the majority of the cells flying on the experiment have undergone little or no degradation. The exception to this are all the ITO/InP cells, supplied by two different manufacturers, they are showing more degradation than the GaAs cells. This result is unexpected and currently unexplainable. It will be necessary to retrieve data from the experiment for several years to obtain the best results due to the relatively benign radiation environment.

Glenn's Telescience Support Center Provided Around-the-Clock Operations Support for Space Experiments on the International Space Station

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Malarik, Diane C.

2005-01-01

NASA Glenn Research Center s Telescience Support Center (TSC) allows researchers on Earth to operate experiments onboard the International Space Station (ISS) and the space shuttles. NASA s continuing investment in the required software, systems, and networks provides distributed ISS ground operations that enable payload developers and scientists to monitor and control their experiments from the Glenn TSC. The quality of scientific and engineering data is enhanced while the long-term operational costs of experiments are reduced because principal investigators and engineering teams can operate their payloads from their home institutions.

Five-year Experience With Arterial Switch Operation in the First Hours of Life.

PubMed

Chasovskyi, Kyrylo; Mykychak, Yaroslav; Rudenko, Nadiia; Vorobyova, Hanna; Yemets, Illya

2017-01-01

We assessed morbidity after 2 management strategies for arterial switch operation (ASO) in a single institution: first hours of life surgery and conventional approach. From September 2009 to September 2014, 346 consecutive patients who underwent ASO were enrolled. The study group included 92 patients who underwent ASO in the first 24 hours after birth (group I). The control group consisted of 254 patients who underwent ASO after 24 hours of life in the conventional way (group II). Three outcomes were analyzed: postoperative ventilation time (VT), post-extubation hospital length of stay (peLOS), and a composite morbidity index, defined as postoperative VT + peLOS + occurrence of selected major complications. Overall 30-day survival was 98% (2 [2%] group I vs 5 [2%] group II, P = 1.000). Fifty (13.3%) major complications were observed: 14 (15%) in group I and 36 (15%) in group II (P = 0.635). Although peLOS and morbidity index did not differ significantly between groups, postoperative VT (42 hours [24, 67] vs 27 hours [22, 47], P = 0.008) and total hospital stay were significantly longer in group II (18 days [10, 19] vs 14 days [12, 18]). A median volume of 80 mL (60-100 mL) of autologous umbilical cord blood was collected (80 mL, group 1 vs 60 mL, group II; P = 0.090). Homologous blood cell transfusion was avoided in 70 patients (78%) in group I and in 13 patients (6%) in group II (P < 0.001). Arterial switch operation during the initial 24 hours of life has similar outcomes in view of morbidity and mortality to the conventional approach. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Variable Operative Experience in Hand Surgery for Plastic Surgery Residents.

PubMed

Silvestre, Jason; Lin, Ines C; Levin, Lawrence Scott; Chang, Benjamin

Efforts to standardize hand surgery training during plastic surgery residency remain challenging. We analyze the variability of operative hand experience at U.S. plastic surgery residency programs. Operative case logs of chief residents in accredited U.S. plastic surgery residency programs were analyzed (2011-2015). Trends in fold differences of hand surgery case volume between the 10th and 90th percentiles of residents were assessed graphically. Percentile data were used to calculate the number of residents achieving case minimums in hand surgery for 2015. Case logs from 818 plastic surgery residents were analyzed of which a minority were from integrated (35.7%) versus independent/combined (64.3%) residents. Trend analysis of fold differences in case volume demonstrated decreasing variability among procedure categories over time. By 2015, fold differences for hand reconstruction, tendon cases, nerve cases, arthroplasty/arthrodesis, amputation, arterial repair, Dupuytren release, and neoplasm cases were below 10-fold. Congenital deformity cases among independent/combined residents was the sole category that exceeded 10-fold by 2015. Percentile data suggested that approximately 10% of independent/combined residents did not meet case minimums for arterial repair and congenital deformity in 2015. Variable operative experience during plastic surgery residency may limit adequate exposure to hand surgery for certain residents. Future studies should establish empiric case minimums for plastic surgery residents to ensure hand surgery competency upon graduation. Copyright © 2017 Association of Program Directors in Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The Senior Year Experience. Facilitating Integration, Reflection, Closure, and Transition.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gardner, John N.; Van der Veer, Gretchen

The theme of this collection of 17 monographs is defined as the "senior year experience," that final period of the undergraduate experience leading to entry into graduate school or the workplace. Part 1, "Understanding the Unique Needs of Today's Seniors," examines the characteristics and needs of senior as they make the…

Teaching Students to "Cook": Promoting Writing in the First Year Experience Course

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Eberly, Charlene; Trand, Patsy A. Self

2010-01-01

This paper is a continuation of a previous article, "Teaching Students to "Cook": Promoting Reading in the First Year Experience Course," The Learning Assistance Review 14 (2), on the importance of teaching critical thinking through the foundational skills of analytical reading and writing within the First Year Experience (FYE)…

Suggestions for Implementing First Year Experience Learning Communities in Teacher Education Programs

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hintz, Kathryn; Genareo, Vincent

2017-01-01

This article describes the creation of a First Year Experience learning community in a teacher education program. The First Year Experience model was adopted by the university because of declining enrollment, retention, and graduation rates and has been generally successful in the education department. With little information available for teacher…

Integrated mission management operations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1971-01-01

Operations required to launch a modular space station and to provides sustaining ground operations for support of that orbiting station throughout its 10 year mission are studied. A baseline, incrementally manned program and attendent experiment program options are derived. In addition, features of the program that significantly effect initial development and early operating costs are identified, and their impact on the program is assessed. A preliminary design of the approved modular space station configuration is formulated.

[State and developmental trends of urogenital tuberculosis--20 years clinical and pathologic-anatomical experiences].

PubMed

Köhler, H; Haenselt, V; Endmann, P

1978-10-01

On the basis of own experiences of twenty years and taking into consideration the knowledge of other authors the developmental tendency in the treatment of the urogenital tuberculosis is demonstrated, the indications to nephrectomy, resection of the kidney, and epididymectomy are reified as well as kind and sequelae of errors in chemotherapy analysed. From 1958 to 1977 2,868 patients with urogenital tuberculosis were hospitalized in the Central Clinic Bad Berka. Of them about 41% had to undergo an operation. A decrease of the quantity of operations can be observed only in the renal resections, whereas the nephrectomy rate is unchangedly high (16.3% of the own patients) and even shows an increasing tendency since 1975. Comparative examinations show that the pathologo-anatomical picture of the ectomized kidneys has not changed during the period of observation. The knowledge of the symptom-poor course obliges also further on differential-diagnostically to take into consideration the urogenital tuberculosis. Only on this way the still large number of organ endangering complications may be encountered in time.

The HEAO experience - design through operations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hoffman, D. P.

1983-01-01

The design process and performance of the NASA High Energy Astronomy Observatories (HEAO-1, 2, and 3) are surveyed from the initiation of the program in 1968 through the end of HEAO-3 operation in May, 1981, with a focus on the attitude control and determination subsystem (ACDS). The science objectives, original and revised overall design concepts, final design for each spacecraft, and details of the ACDS designs are discussed, and the stages of the ACDS design process, including redefinition to achieve 50 percent cost reduction, detailed design of common and mission-unique hardware and software, unit qualification, subsystem integration, and observatory-level testing, are described. Overall and ACDS performance is evaluated for each mission and found to meet or exceed design requirements despite some difficulties arising from errors in startracker-ACDS-interface coordination and from gyroscope failures. These difficulties were resolved by using the flexibility of the software design. The implicationns of the HEAO experience for the design process of future spacecraft are suggested.

Utility interconnection experience with an operating central station MW-sized photovoltaic plant

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Patapoff, N. W., Jr.; Mattijetz, D. R.

1985-08-01

Utility experience to date with photovoltaic systems has been with small dispersed systems designed primarily as demonstration projects. The 1 MW photovoltaic plant at Lugo Substation in Hesperia, California, has been designed and is operated as a central station power plant. The performance of the system has been monitored since first coming on line in November 1982. The potential impact of this and similar systems upon the operation of the utility is discussed.

First Year Experience for At-Risk College Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Connolly, Sara; Flynn, Ellen E.; Jemmott, Jill; Oestreicher, Edina

2017-01-01

In this study, we explored whether a uniquely designed First Year Experience (FYE) class for newly admitted at-risk college students would increase academic success; help students avoid academic probation; and increase retention for the following semester. Participants included 40 students (75% African Americans, 20% Hispanic Americans, and 5%…

Experiences of Sexuality Six Years After Stroke: A Qualitative Study.

PubMed

Nilsson, Marie I; Fugl-Meyer, Kerstin; von Koch, Lena; Ytterberg, Charlotte

2017-06-01

Little is known about the long-term consequences of stroke on sexuality, and studies on how individuals with stroke communicate with health care professionals about information and/or interventions on sexuality are even sparser. To explore experiences of sexuality 6 years after stroke, including communication with health care professionals concerning sexuality. This qualitative study was based on data collected by semistructured interviews with 12 informants 43 to 81 years old 6 years after stroke. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim and thematic analysis was performed. The analysis resulted in the following three themes. Not exclusively negative experiences in sexuality after stroke: Most informants experienced some change in their sexual life from before their stroke. Decreased sexual interest and function were ascribed to decreased sensibility, post-stroke pain, or fatigue. Some informants reported positive changes in sexuality, which were attributed to feelings of increased intimacy. Individual differences and variability on how to handle sexuality after stroke: Different strategies were used to manage unwanted negative changes such as actively trying to adapt by planning time with the partner and decreasing pressure or stress. Open communication about sexuality with one's partner also was described as important. Strikingly, most informants with negative experiences of sexual life attributed these to age or a stage in life and not to the stroke or health issues. Furthermore, they compared themselves with others without stroke but with changes in sexuality, thus achieving a sense of normality. Communication and counseling concerning sexuality-many unmet needs: Experiences of communication with health care professionals varied. Very few informants had received any information or discussed sexuality with health care professionals during the 6 years since the stroke, although such needs were identified by most informants. When encountering individuals

Action Stations! 100 years of trauma care on maritime and amphibious operations in the Royal Navy.

PubMed

Osborne, M; Smith, J E

2015-01-01

Over the past century trauma care within the Royal Navy (RN) has evolved; wartime experiences and military medical research have combined to allow significant improvement in the care of casualties. This article describes the key maritime and amphibious operations that have seen the Royal Navy Medical Service (RNMS) deliver high levels of support to wherever the Naval Service has deployed in the last 100 years. Key advancements in which progress has led to improved outcomes for injured personnel are highlighted--the control and treatment of blood loss, wound care, and the prevention and management of organ failure with optimal resuscitation. Historians often point out how slowly military medicine progressed for the first few thousand years of its recorded history, and how quickly it has progressed in the last century. This reflective article will show how the RNMS has been an integral part of that story, and how the lessons learnt by our predecessors have shaped our modern day doctrine surrounding trauma care.

Proving and Improving: Strategies for Assessing the First College Year. The First-Year Experience Monograph Series.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Swing, Randy L., Ed.

The essays in this collection, initially written for an online audience, focus on the philosophy, methods, and outcomes of assessing the first-year experience of college students. Several recurrent themes highlight general agreement about best practices in first-year assessment, but the collection contains some differences of opinion also. The…

Operational Experience of the Upgraded Cryogenic Systems at the Nscl

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McCartney, A. H.; Laumer, H. L.; Jones, S. A.

2010-04-01

The National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory (NSCL) is a NSF-supported facility, with additional support from Michigan State University (MSU) for conducting research in nuclear and accelerator science. The facility consists of two superconducting cyclotrons and over fifty individual cryostats, each containing several superconducting magnets that are used in the beam transport system. Beginning in 1999 a major facility upgrade was started. New, larger magnets were added, increasing the total 4.5 K loads, necessitating an increase of the cryogenic capacity. A helium plant (nominal 1750-Watt at 4.5 K) was acquired from the United States Bureau of Mines where it had been operating as a pure liquefier since the early 1980's. It was refurbished for the NSCL with extensive support from the cryogenics group at Thomas Jefferson National Laboratory. The new cryogenic system came online early in 2001. The cold-mass is relatively high in relation to the installed capacity, presenting challenges during cool downs. Reliability over the last five years has been greater than 99%. An overview of the last seven years of operations of our cryogenic systems is presented that includes normal operations, testing of new equipment, noteworthy breakdowns, routine maintenance, and system reliability.

Outcomes of Synergetic Peer Assessment: First-Year Experience

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hodgson, Paula; Chan, Kitty; Liu, Justina

2014-01-01

Active participation in learning activities and reviewing assessment activity can facilitate learners engaged in these processes. This case study reports student experiences of the process of peer assessment with teacher guidance in a group project for a first-year nursing course with 153 students. Twenty groups of students were assigned roles in…

Five-year microbiological monitoring of wards and operating theatres in southern Italy.

PubMed

La Fauci, V; Genovese, C; Facciolà, A; Palamara, M A R; Squeri, R

2017-06-01

Nosocomial infections are one of the greatest problems in public health. Several studies have highlighted the role played by the hospital environment as a possible source of transmission of nosocomial pathogens. A five-year monitoring of bacterial contamination on healthcare workers hands, surfaces most closely in contact with inpatient wards, operating theatres and "at rest" and "in use" operating theatre air samples. For the samples, we used sterile swabs, contact slides, manual API, and automated VITEK systems for identification. In the five-year period, a total of 9396 samples were collected and analysed. In ward patients, 4398 samplings were carried out with 4.7%, 9.4%, 7%, 10.8% and 7.9% positive results respectively from 2010 to 2014. For hands, 648 samplings were carried out, with a positivity of 40.74%. In operating theatres, 4188 samples were taken, with a positivity of 11.9%. Regarding air in empty and full theatres, 1962 samplings were carried out with a positivity rate equal to 31.9%. The monitoring showed a low rate of contamination with a progressive decrease in the fiveyear period on operating theatres surfaces and hands, while there was an increase in the surgical site wards and in the air of operating rooms. Our investigation has revealed the presence of pathogens on the assessed surfaces and the need for environmental monitoring, which can be a valuable tool for reducing contamination.

Involvement in Campus Activities and the Retention of First-Year College Students. The First-Year Experience Monograph Series.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Skipper, Tracy L., Ed.; Argo, Roxanne, Ed.

The chapters of this monograph offer insights into educationally purposeful out-of-class activities and the impact they have on the student experience. It also provides future directions for the campus activities field and identifies ways to improve the educational experience of first-year students to enhance their scholarly experience and to…

Optimization of identity operation in NMR spectroscopy via genetic algorithm: Application to the TEDOR experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manu, V. S.; Veglia, Gianluigi

2016-12-01

Identity operation in the form of π pulses is widely used in NMR spectroscopy. For an isolated single spin system, a sequence of even number of π pulses performs an identity operation, leaving the spin state essentially unaltered. For multi-spin systems, trains of π pulses with appropriate phases and time delays modulate the spin Hamiltonian to perform operations such as decoupling and recoupling. However, experimental imperfections often jeopardize the outcome, leading to severe losses in sensitivity. Here, we demonstrate that a newly designed Genetic Algorithm (GA) is able to optimize a train of π pulses, resulting in a robust identity operation. As proof-of-concept, we optimized the recoupling sequence in the transferred-echo double-resonance (TEDOR) pulse sequence, a key experiment in biological magic angle spinning (MAS) solid-state NMR for measuring multiple carbon-nitrogen distances. The GA modified TEDOR (GMO-TEDOR) experiment with improved recoupling efficiency results in a net gain of sensitivity up to 28% as tested on a uniformly 13C, 15N labeled microcrystalline ubiquitin sample. The robust identity operation achieved via GA paves the way for the optimization of several other pulse sequences used for both solid- and liquid-state NMR used for decoupling, recoupling, and relaxation experiments.

Exploring the experiences and expectations of year 1 children's nursing students.

PubMed

Wright, Jackie; Wray, Jane

2012-05-01

Attrition among children's nursing students remains high despite the field of practice attracting large numbers of applicants. While previous studies have examined nursing students as a group, this study specifically examines the children's nursing student experience. To explore the expectations and early experiences of children's nursing students. A phenomenological approach was adopted. Four focus groups were conducted at the beginning and end of the first year of a three-year programme. The students defined children's nursing by the age and needs of the client group. They had expected practice experience would solely be within the acute setting. The acquisition and confidence in undertaking psychomotor skills was of importance to this group of students. The students' unmet expectations may have a negative effect on their experience of the programme and therefore potentially on their decision to continue on the programme.

The Effects of Age, Years of Experience, and Type of Experience in the Teacher Selection Process

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Vail, David Scott

2010-01-01

Paper screening in the pre-selection process of hiring teachers has been the focus in an ongoing series of similar studies starting with Allison in 1981. There have been many independent variables, including, but not limited to, age, gender, ethnic background, years of experience, type of experience, and grade point average, introduced into the…

Re-operative thyroid surgery: a 20-year prospective cohort study at a tertiary referral centre.

PubMed

Hardman, John C; Smith, J A; Nankivell, P; Sharma, N; Watkinson, J C

2015-06-01

Re-operative thyroid surgery is a relatively uncommon procedure complicated by distorted anatomy and post-operative tissue changes. Surgery may follow initial benign or malignant pathology. Published outcomes vary widely in the literature. This study aims to report our outcomes from re-operative thyroid surgery. Patient demographics and complication rates for consecutive thyroidectomies performed by a single surgeon at a tertiary centre were collected between 1993 and 2013. Outcomes in re-operative surgery are analysed and compared with local and national data. Cases of re-operative surgery following benign disease are further analysed for histology, re-presenting symptoms and time between procedures. Our cohort comprised 1,657 cases including 164 re-operative procedures (101 malignant, 63 benign). Within our cohort re-operative cases were on average 4 years older (mean 49.9 vs 45.9 years, p = 0.001) and had a higher incidence of haematoma formation (4.3 vs 1.7 %, p = 0.033) and transient recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy (5.5 vs 2.5 %, p = 0.044) compared to primary surgery. Rates of permanent hypocalcaemia (2.4 vs 1.8 %, p = 0.540) and permanent RLN palsy (1.8 vs 0.4 %, p = 0.051) were higher in the re-operative group but did not reach significance. Comparison of complications following re-operation for benign and malignant disease revealed no significant differences. Mean interval to re-operation for benign cases was 17.4 years with 74.6 % found to have multinodular goitre at repeat procedure. Re-operative procedures comprised around 10 % of thyroid surgery at our centre. Re-operative cases experienced more complications than primary surgery but permanent rates were low. Re-operative surgery may therefore be safely considered in experienced hands.

The experience in operation and improving the Orlan-type space suits.

PubMed

Abramov, I P

1995-07-01

Nowadays significant experience has been gained in Russia concerning extravehicular activity (EVA) with cosmonauts wearing a semi-rigid space suit of the "Orlan" type. The conditions for the cosmonauts' vital activities, the operational and ergonomic features of the space suit and its reliability are the most critical factors defining the efficiency of the scheduled operation to be performed by the astronaut and his safety. As the missions performed by the cosmonauts during EVA become more and more elaborate, the requirements for EVA space suits and their systems become more and more demanding, resulting in their consistent advancement. This paper provides certain results of the space suit's operation and analysis of its major problems as applied to the Salyut and MIR orbiting stations. The modification steps of the space suit in the course of operation (Orlan-D, Orlan-DM, Orlan-DMA) and its specific features are presented. The concept of the suited cosmonauts' safety is described as well as trends for future space suit improvements.

Learning from Experience: The Expectations and Experiences of First-Year Undergraduate Psychology Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rowley, Martin; Hartley, James; Larkin, Derek

2008-01-01

Single-honours psychology students at an English university were asked about their expectations and experiences at the start and the end of their first year. Students without a pre-university (A-level) qualification in psychology (n = 37: 22%) felt less well-prepared for studying psychology than students with an A-level qualification (n = 132:…

17 CFR 240.15b7-3T - Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 17 Commodity and Securities Exchanges 3 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment. 240.15b7-3T Section 240.15b7-3T Commodity and Securities Exchanges SECURITIES... § 240.15b7-3T Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment. (a) This section applies to every...

17 CFR 240.15b7-3T - Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 17 Commodity and Securities Exchanges 3 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment. 240.15b7-3T Section 240.15b7-3T Commodity and Securities Exchanges SECURITIES... § 240.15b7-3T Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment. (a) This section applies to every...

17 CFR 240.15b7-3T - Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 17 Commodity and Securities Exchanges 3 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment. 240.15b7-3T Section 240.15b7-3T Commodity and Securities Exchanges SECURITIES... § 240.15b7-3T Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment. (a) This section applies to every...

17 CFR 240.15b7-3T - Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 17 Commodity and Securities Exchanges 4 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment. 240.15b7-3T Section 240.15b7-3T Commodity and Securities Exchanges SECURITIES... § 240.15b7-3T Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment. (a) This section applies to every...

17 CFR 240.15b7-3T - Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 17 Commodity and Securities Exchanges 3 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment. 240.15b7-3T Section 240.15b7-3T Commodity and Securities Exchanges SECURITIES... § 240.15b7-3T Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment. (a) This section applies to every...

The century experiment: the first twenty years of UC Davis' Mediterranean agroecological experiment.

PubMed

Wolf, Kristina M; Torbert, Emma E; Bryant, Dennis; Burger, Martin; Denison, R Ford; Herrera, Israel; Hopmans, Jan; Horwath, Will; Kaffka, Stephen; Kong, Angela Y Y; Norris, R F; Six, Johan; Tomich, Thomas P; Scow, Kate M

2018-02-01

The Century Experiment at the Russell Ranch Sustainable Agriculture Facility at the University of California, Davis provides long-term agroecological data from row crop systems in California's Central Valley starting in 1993. The Century Experiment was initially designed to study the effects of a gradient of water and nitrogen availability on soil properties and crop performance in ten different cropping systems to measure tradeoffs and synergies between agricultural productivity and sustainability. Currently systems include 11 different cropping systems-consisting of four different crops and a cover crop mixture-and one native grass system. This paper describes the long-term core data from the Century Experiment from 1993-2014, including crop yields and biomass, crop elemental contents, aerial-photo-based Normalized Difference Vegetation Index data, soil properties, weather, chemical constituents in irrigation water, winter weed populations, and operational data including fertilizer and pesticide application amounts and dates, planting dates, planting quantity and crop variety, and harvest dates. This data set represents the only known long-term set of data characterizing food production and sustainability in irrigated and rainfed Mediterranean annual cropping systems. There are no copyright restrictions associated with the use of this dataset. © 2018 by the Ecological Society of America.

Inequalities in dental caries experience among 4-year-old New Zealand children.

PubMed

Shackleton, Nichola; Broadbent, Jonathan M; Thornley, Simon; Milne, Barry J; Crengle, Sue; Exeter, Daniel J

2018-06-01

To investigate ethnic-specific deprivation gradients in early childhood dental caries experience considering different domains of deprivation. We used cross-sectional near whole population-level data on 318 321 four-year-olds attending the "B4 School check," a national health and development check in New Zealand, across 6 fiscal years (2010/2011 to 2015/2016). The "lift the lip" screening tool was used to estimate experience of any caries and severe caries. We investigated deprivation gradients using the Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD), which measures seven domains of deprivation across 5958 geographical areas ("data zones"). Ethnicity was categorized into five groups: (i) Māori, (ii) Pacific, (iii) Asian, (iv) Middle Eastern, Latin American and African (MELAA) and (v) European & Other (combined). We used a random intercepts model to estimate mutually adjusted associations between deprivation, ethnicity, age, fiscal year, and evidence of any dental caries experience. Reports of any caries experience decreased from 15.8% (95% CI: 15.7; 15.9%) to 14.7% 95% CI: 14.4; 14.8%), while reports of severe caries experience increased from 3.0% (95% CI: 3.0; 3.1%) to 4.4% (95% CI: 4.3; 4.5%) from 2010/2011 to 2015/2016. This varied by ethnicity with larger increases in severe caries for Pacific children from 7.1% (95% CI: 6.8; 7.4%) to 14.1% (95% CI: 13.7; 14.5%). There were deprivation gradients in dental caries experience with considerable variation by ethnicity and by domain of deprivation. The association between deprivation and dental caries experience was weakest for Asian children and was most pronounced for Pacific and Māori children. Socioeconomic gradients in dental caries experience are evident by age 4 years, and these gradients vary by ethnicity and domain of deprivation. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Status of SRNL radiological field lysimeter experiment-Year 1

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kaplan, D.; Roberts, K.; Bagwell, L.

The Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL) Radiological Field Lysimeter Experiment is a one-of-a-kind field facility designed to study radionuclide geochemical processes at a larger spatial scale (from grams to tens of kilograms sediment) and temporal scale (from months to 10 years) than is readily afforded through laboratory studies. The lysimeter facility is intended to capture the natural heterogeneity of moisture and temperature regimes in the vadose zone, the unsaturated subsurface region between the surface soil and the underlying aquifer. The 48 lysimeter columns, which contain various radionuclides (and stable iodine), were opened to rainfall infiltration on July 5, 2012. Themore » objective of this report is to provide a status of the lysimeter facility operations and to compile data collected during FY13, including leachate volume, rainfall, and soil moisture and temperature in situ probe data. Radiological leachate data are not presented in this document but will be the subject of a separate document.1 Leachate samples were collected quarterly and shipped to Clemson University for radiological analyses. Rainfall, leachate volume, moisture and temperature probe data were collected continuously. During operations of the facility this year, there were four safety or technical concerns that required additional maintenance: 1) radioactivity was detected in one of the overflow bottles (captured water collected from the secondary containment that does not come in contact with the radiological source material); 2) rainwater accumulated within the sample-bottle storage sheds; 3) overflow containers collected more liquid than anticipated; and 4) significant spider infestation occurred in the sample-bottle storage sheds. To address the first three concerns, each of the lysimeter columns was re-plumbed to improve and to minimize the number of joint unions. To address the fourth concern regarding spiders, new sample-bottle water sheds were purchased and a pest

The ACCEND program: a combined BS and MS program in environmental engineering that includes co-operative work experience.

PubMed

Bishop, P L; Keener, T C; Kukreti, A R; Kowel, S T

2004-01-01

Environmental engineering education has rapidly expanded in recent years and new teaching methods are needed. Many professionals and educators believe that a MS degree in environmental engineering should be the minimum in order to practice the profession, along with practical training. This paper describes an innovative program being offered at the University of Cincinnati that combines an integrated BS in civil engineering and an MS in environmental engineering with extensive practical co-operative education (co-op) experience, all within a five-year period. The program includes distance learning opportunities during the co-op periods. The result is a well-trained graduate who will receive higher pay and more challenging career opportunities, and who will have developed professionalism and maturity beyond that from traditional engineering programs.

Hand-held computer operating system program for collection of resident experience data.

PubMed

Malan, T K; Haffner, W H; Armstrong, A Y; Satin, A J

2000-11-01

To describe a system for recording resident experience involving hand-held computers with the Palm Operating System (3 Com, Inc., Santa Clara, CA). Hand-held personal computers (PCs) are popular, easy to use, inexpensive, portable, and can share data among other operating systems. Residents in our program carry individual hand-held database computers to record Residency Review Committee (RRC) reportable patient encounters. Each resident's data is transferred to a single central relational database compatible with Microsoft Access (Microsoft Corporation, Redmond, WA). Patient data entry and subsequent transfer to a central database is accomplished with commercially available software that requires minimal computer expertise to implement and maintain. The central database can then be used for statistical analysis or to create required RRC resident experience reports. As a result, the data collection and transfer process takes less time for residents and program director alike, than paper-based or central computer-based systems. The system of collecting resident encounter data using hand-held computers with the Palm Operating System is easy to use, relatively inexpensive, accurate, and secure. The user-friendly system provides prompt, complete, and accurate data, enhancing the education of residents while facilitating the job of the program director.

Simulation of Coast Guard Vessel Traffic Service Operations by Model and Experiment

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1980-09-01

A technique for computer simulation of operations of U.S. Coast Guard Vessel Traffic Services is described and verified with data obtained in four field studies. Uses of the Technique are discussed and illustrated. A field experiment is described in ...

Formalizing procedures for operations automation, operator training and spacecraft autonomy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lecouat, Francois; Desaintvincent, Arnaud

1994-01-01

The generation and validation of operations procedures is a key task of mission preparation that is quite complex and costly. This has motivated the development of software applications providing support for procedures preparation. Several applications have been developed at MATRA MARCONI SPACE (MMS) over the last five years. They are presented in the first section of this paper. The main idea is that if procedures are represented in a formal language, they can be managed more easily with a computer tool and some automatic verifications can be performed. One difficulty is to define a formal language that is easy to use for operators and operations engineers. From the experience of the various procedures management tools developed in the last five years (including the POM, EOA, and CSS projects), MMS has derived OPSMAKER, a generic tool for procedure elaboration and validation. It has been applied to quite different types of missions, ranging from crew procedures (PREVISE system), ground control centers management procedures (PROCSU system), and - most relevant to the present paper - satellite operation procedures (PROCSAT developed for CNES, to support the preparation and verification of SPOT 4 operation procedures, and OPSAT for MMS telecom satellites operation procedures).

Lessons Learned in the First Year Operating Software Defined Radios in Space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chelmins, David; Mortensen, Dale; Shalkhauser, Mary Jo; Johnson, Sandra K.; Reinhart, Richard

2014-01-01

Operating three unique software defined radios (SDRs) in a space environment aboard the Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) Testbed for over one year has provided an opportunity to gather knowledge useful for future missions considering using software defined radios. This paper provides recommendations for the development and use of SDRs, and it considers the details of each SDRs approach to software upgrades and operation. After one year, the SCaN Testbed SDRs have operated for over 1000 hours. During this time, the waveforms launched with the SDR were tested on-orbit to assure that they operated in space at the same performance level as on the ground prior to launch to obtain an initial on-orbit performance baseline. A new waveform for each SDR has been developed, implemented, uploaded to the flight system, and tested in the flight environment. Recommendations for SDR-based missions have been gathered from early development through operations. These recommendations will aid future missions to reduce the cost, schedule, and risk of operating SDRs in a space environment. This paper considers the lessons learned as they apply to SDR pre-launch checkout, purchasing space-rated hardware, flexibility in command and telemetry methods, on-orbit diagnostics, use of engineering models to aid future development, and third-party software. Each SDR implements the SCaN Testbed flight computer command and telemetry interface uniquely, allowing comparisons to be drawn. The paper discusses the lessons learned from these three unique implementations, with suggestions on the preferred approach. Also, results are presented showing that it is important to have full system performance knowledge prior to launch to establish better performance baselines in space, requiring additional test applications to be developed pre-launch. Finally, the paper presents the issues encountered with the operation and implementation of new waveforms on each SDR and proposes recommendations to

Lessons Learned in the First Year Operating Software Defined Radios in Space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chelmins, David; Mortensen, Dale; Shalkhauser, Mary Jo; Johnson, Sandra K.; Reinhart, Richard

2014-01-01

Operating three unique software defined radios (SDRs) in a space environment aboard the Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) Testbed for over one year has provided an opportunity to gather knowledge useful for future missions considering using software defined radios. This paper provides recommendations for the development and use of SDRs, and it considers the details of each SDR's approach to software upgrades and operation. After one year, the SCaN Testbed SDRs have operated for over 1000 hours. During this time, the waveforms launched with the SDR were tested on-orbit to assure that they operated in space at the same performance level as on the ground prior to launch to obtain an initial on-orbit performance baseline. A new waveform for each SDR has been developed, implemented, uploaded to the flight system, and tested in the flight environment. Recommendations for SDR-based missions have been gathered from early development through operations. These recommendations will aid future missions to reduce the cost, schedule, and risk of operating SDRs in a space environment. This paper considers the lessons learned as they apply to SDR pre-launch checkout, purchasing space-rated hardware, flexibility in command and telemetry methods, on-orbit diagnostics, use of engineering models to aid future development, and third-party software. Each SDR implements the SCaN Testbed flight computer command and telemetry interface uniquely, allowing comparisons to be drawn. The paper discusses the lessons learned from these three unique implementations, with suggestions on the preferred approach. Also, results are presented showing that it is important to have full system performance knowledge prior to launch to establish better performance baselines in space, requiring additional test applications to be developed pre-launch. Finally, the paper presents the issues encountered with the operation and implementation of new waveforms on each SDR and proposes recommendations to

Seventeen years' experience of a voluntarily based drug rationalisation programme in hospital.

PubMed Central

Baker, J. A.; Lant, A. F.; Sutters, C. A.

1988-01-01

A study was carried out analysing the operation of a drug rationalisation programme in a central London teaching district that had evolved from experience over 17 years. Creation of a limited list of about 700 drugs had been achieved by local consensus. Drug selection was based on appraisal of efficacy, safety, and cost and was undertaken by means of collaborative participation of most consultant specialists in the district. Educative and other non-restrictive strategies for reinforcing the rationalisation policy had achieved a consistently high rate of compliance in prescribing recommended drugs. The concept of selectivity in drug use and its continuous local reappraisal had a beneficial impact on the prescribing habits of doctors at all levels of seniority as well as on the training of medical undergraduates and nurses in the therapeutic use of medicines. Peer review and self audit were encouraged by use of an extensive monitoring system which incorporated continuous "facilitative" dialogue between ward pharmacists and prescribers. Two models of drug rationalisation programme were studied, the second of which together with other local initiatives had been associated with substantial and sustained reductions in drug spending each year over nine years since 1978. It is concluded that the second drug rationalisation programme model substantially improves the cost effective use of drugs in hospital and furthermore has the potential of being extended to general practice, especially in types of prescribing that are common to both forms of patient care. PMID:3139150

Robotic assembly and maintenance of future space stations based on the ISS mission operations experience

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rembala, Richard; Ower, Cameron

2009-10-01

MDA has provided 25 years of real-time engineering support to Shuttle (Canadarm) and ISS (Canadarm2) robotic operations beginning with the second shuttle flight STS-2 in 1981. In this capacity, our engineering support teams have become familiar with the evolution of mission planning and flight support practices for robotic assembly and support operations at mission control. This paper presents observations on existing practices and ideas to achieve reduced operational overhead to present programs. It also identifies areas where robotic assembly and maintenance of future space stations and space-based facilities could be accomplished more effectively and efficiently. Specifically, our experience shows that past and current space Shuttle and ISS assembly and maintenance operations have used the approach of extensive preflight mission planning and training to prepare the flight crews for the entire mission. This has been driven by the overall communication latency between the earth and remote location of the space station/vehicle as well as the lack of consistent robotic and interface standards. While the early Shuttle and ISS architectures included robotics, their eventual benefits on the overall assembly and maintenance operations could have been greater through incorporating them as a major design driver from the beginning of the system design. Lessons learned from the ISS highlight the potential benefits of real-time health monitoring systems, consistent standards for robotic interfaces and procedures and automated script-driven ground control in future space station assembly and logistics architectures. In addition, advances in computer vision systems and remote operation, supervised autonomous command and control systems offer the potential to adjust the balance between assembly and maintenance tasks performed using extra vehicular activity (EVA), extra vehicular robotics (EVR) and EVR controlled from the ground, offloading the EVA astronaut and even the robotic

ITER-FEAT operation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shimomura, Y.; Aymar, R.; Chuyanov, V. A.; Huguet, M.; Matsumoto, H.; Mizoguchi, T.; Murakami, Y.; Polevoi, A. R.; Shimada, M.; ITER Joint Central Team; ITER Home Teams

2001-03-01

ITER is planned to be the first fusion experimental reactor in the world operating for research in physics and engineering. The first ten years of operation will be devoted primarily to physics issues at low neutron fluence and the following ten years of operation to engineering testing at higher fluence. ITER can accommodate various plasma configurations and plasma operation modes, such as inductive high Q modes, long pulse hybrid modes and non-inductive steady state modes, with large ranges of plasma current, density, beta and fusion power, and with various heating and current drive methods. This flexibility will provide an advantage for coping with uncertainties in the physics database, in studying burning plasmas, in introducing advanced features and in optimizing the plasma performance for the different programme objectives. Remote sites will be able to participate in the ITER experiment. This concept will provide an advantage not only in operating ITER for 24 hours a day but also in involving the worldwide fusion community and in promoting scientific competition among the ITER Parties.

Awake Craniotomy: First-Year Experiences and Patient Perception.

PubMed

Joswig, Holger; Bratelj, Denis; Brunner, Thomas; Jacomet, Alfred; Hildebrandt, Gerhard; Surbeck, Werner

2016-06-01

Awake craniotomy for brain lesions in or near eloquent brain regions enables neurosurgeons to assess neurologic functions of patients intraoperatively, reducing the risk of permanent neurologic deficits and increasing the extent of resection. A retrospective review was performed of a consecutive series of patients with awake craniotomies in the first year of their introduction to our tertiary non-university-affiliated neurosurgery department. Operation time, complications, and neurologic outcome were assessed, and patient perception of awake craniotomy was surveyed using a mailed questionnaire. There were 24 awake craniotomies performed in 22 patients for low-grade/high-grade gliomas, cavernomas, and metastases (average 2 cases per month). Mean operation time was 205 minutes. Failure of awake craniotomy because of intraoperative seizures with subsequent postictal impaired testing or limited cooperation occurred in 2 patients. Transient neurologic deficits occurred in 29% of patients; 1 patient sustained a permanent neurologic deficit. Of the 18 patients (82%) who returned the questionnaire, only 2 patients recalled significant fear during surgery. Introducing awake craniotomy to a tertiary non-university-affiliated neurosurgery department is feasible and resulted in reasonable operation times and complication rates and high patient satisfaction. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Gyroscope relativity experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Decher, R.

1971-01-01

A gyroscope test of general relativity theory is proposed. The basic ideas and hardware concepts conceived by the investigators to implement the experiment are discussed. The goal is to measure the extremely small relativistic precession of gyroscopes in an earth-orbiting satellite. The experiment hardware (cryogenic gyroscopes, a telescope and superconducting circuits) is enclosed in a liquid helium dewar. The experiment will operate in orbit for about one year.

Operational experience with intermediate flat-plate photovoltaic systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Risser, V. V.; Zwibel, H. S.

Operating features, data acquisition, and fault isolation and maintenance procedures at 20 kWp and 100 kWp photovoltaic (PV) installations in Texas and New Mexico are discussed. Weather and system performance are sensed each minute, averages are calculated for each ten readings, and data is stored on magnetic tape. A total of 84 parameters, including 64 string currents, are recorded at the 20 kWp array and 84 parameters, with 42 string currents, are traced in New Mexico. The 20 kW array is coupled to a 197 MW utility power plant, which determines the voltage of the array. It produced 12 MWh in one yr of operation, functioning at 24 pct overall efficiency. The 100 kWp system is coupled to a 60 kW power conditioning unit and feeds a shopping center, producing 8 pct of the annual load with a cap factor of 25 pct and 192 MWh of dc current produced in one year. It was found that under normal conditions washing the panels is not economically justified in terms of the small power lost if washing does not occur. It is concluded that the PV arrays can be successfully used in an automated operation mode.

Analysis of the learning curve for peroral endoscopic myotomy for esophageal achalasia: Single-center, two-operator experience.

PubMed

Lv, Houning; Zhao, Ningning; Zheng, Zhongqing; Wang, Tao; Yang, Fang; Jiang, Xihui; Lin, Lin; Sun, Chao; Wang, Bangmao

2017-05-01

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has emerged as an advanced technique for the treatment of achalasia, and defining the learning curve is mandatory. From August 2011 to June 2014, two operators in our institution (A&B) carried out POEM on 35 and 33 consecutive patients, respectively. Moving average and cumulative sum (CUSUM) methods were used to analyze the POEM learning curve for corrected operative time (cOT), referring to duration of per centimeter myotomy. Additionally, perioperative outcomes were compared among distinct learning curve phases. Using the moving average method, cOT reached a plateau at the 29th case and at the 24th case for operators A and B, respectively. CUSUM analysis identified three phases: initial learning period (Phase 1), efficiency period (Phase 2) and mastery period (Phase 3). The relatively smooth state in the CUSUM graph occurred at the 26th case and at the 24th case for operators A and B, respectively. Mean cOT of distinct phases for operator A were 8.32, 5.20 and 3.97 min, whereas they were 5.99, 3.06 and 3.75 min for operator B, respectively. Eckardt score and lower esophageal sphincter pressure significantly decreased during the 1-year follow-up period. Data were comparable regarding patient characteristics and perioperative outcomes. This single-center study demonstrated that expert endoscopists with experience in esophageal endoscopic submucosal dissection reached a plateau in learning of POEM after approximately 25 cases. © 2016 Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopy Society.

Survey of Experimental Results From One Year of PASP PLUS Orbital Operation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Guidice, D. A.; Curtis, H. B.; Piszczor, M. F.; Palys, J. R.

1996-01-01

With PASP Plus as its primary payload, the APEX satellite was launched by a standard Pegasus rocket released from a NASA B-52 aircraft on 3 August 1994. A 70 deg inclination, 363 km X 2550 km orbit was achieved, allowing both investigation of space plasma effects on high-voltage operation in the perigee region and investigation of space radiation effects on array power output from passage through the inner radiation belt in the apogee region. Data gathering by PASP Plus was begun on 7 Aug 94 and ended on 11 Aug 95. In one year, PASP Plus collected an order of magnitude more data on environmental interactions on solar arrays than all previous space-borne photovoltaic experiments combined. The test arrays flown and the interactions-measuring and space-environment sensors of PASP Plus are described. The results of measurements of leakage current under test-array positive biasing and arc rates under negative biasing as a function of bias voltage, plasma density, array orientation, and other conditions are presented. The results of measurements of test-array power-output degradation caused by space radiation are also examined.

First deep space operational experience with simultaneous X- and Ka-bands coherent tracking

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Asmar, S.; Herrera, R.; Armstrong, J.; Barbinis, E.; Fleischman, D.; Gatti, M.; Goltz, G.

2002-01-01

This paper describes the new DSN science capability and highlights of the engineering work that lead to its development. It will also discuss experience with operations along with statistics and data quality.

Two years of on-orbit gallium arsenide performance from the LIPS solar cell panel experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Francis, R. W.; Betz, F. E.

1985-01-01

The LIPS on-orbit performance of the gallium arsenide panel experiment was analyzed from flight operation telemetry data. Algorithms were developed to calculate the daily maximum power and associated solar array parameters by two independent methods. The first technique utilizes a least mean square polynomial fit to the power curve obtained with intensity and temperature corrected currents and voltages; whereas, the second incorporates an empirical expression for fill factor based on an open circuit voltage and the calculated series resistance. Maximum power, fill factor, open circuit voltage, short circuit current and series resistance of the solar cell array are examined as a function of flight time. Trends are analyzed with respect to possible mechanisms which may affect successive periods of output power during 2 years of flight operation. Degradation factors responsible for the on-orbit performance characteristics of gallium arsenide are discussed in relation to the calculated solar cell parameters. Performance trends and the potential degradation mechanisms are correlated with existing laboratory and flight data on both gallium arsenide and silicon solar cells for similar environments.

Advanced Communications Technology Satellite (ACTS) Used for Inclined Orbit Operations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bauer, Robert A.

2000-01-01

The Advanced Communications Technology Satellite (ACTS) is operated by the NASA Glenn Research Center at Lewis Field 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. ACTS, which was launched in September 1993, is in its 7th year of operations, far exceeding the system s planned 2 years of operations and 4 years of designed mission life. After 5 successful years of operating as a geostationary satellite, the spacecraft s North-South stationkeeping was discontinued in August 1998. The system is now operating in an inclined orbit that increases at a rate of 0.8 /yr. With only scarce fuel remaining, operating in this mode extends the usage of the still totally functional payload. Although tracking systems are now needed on the experimenter Earth stations, experiment operations have continued with very little disruption. This is the only known geosynchronous Ka-band (30/20 GHz) spot-beam satellite operating in an inclined orbit. The project began its transition from geostationary operations to inclined operations in August 1998. This did not interrupt operations and was transparent to the experimenters on the system. For the space segment, new daily procedures were implemented to maintain the pointing of the system s narrow 0.3 spot beams while the spacecraft drifts in the North-South direction. For the ground segment, modifications were designed, developed, and fielded for the three classes of experimenter Earth stations. With the next generation of commercial satellite systems still being developed, ACTS remains the only operational testbed for Ka-band geosynchronous satellite communications over the Western hemisphere. Since inclined orbit operations began, the ACTS experiments program has supported 43 investigations by industry, Government, and academic organizations, as well as four demonstrations. The project s goals for inclined-orbit operations now reflect a narrower focus in the types of experiments that will be done. In these days of "faster, better, cheaper," NASA is seeking

The NICMOS Cooling SYSTEM-5 Years of Successful On-Orbit Operation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Swift, W. L.; Dolan, F. X.; Zagarola, M. V.

2008-03-01

The NICMOS Cooling System consists of a closed-loop turbo-Brayton cryocooler coupled with a cryogenic circulator that provides refrigeration to the Near Infrared Camera and Multi-Object Spectrometer (NICMOS) on the Hubble Space Telescope (HST). The cryocooler heat is rejected to space through a capillary pumped loop connected to radiators mounted on the side of the telescope. The system was deployed and integrated with NICMOS by astronauts during STS-109 (Space Shuttle Columbia) in March 2002. It has operated nearly continuously without performance degradation since that time, maintaining NICMOS detectors at a constant temperature of 77 K. Miniature, high-speed turbomachines are used in the cryocooler and the circulator loop to provide vibration-free, long-life operation. A small centrifugal compressor and miniature turboalternator are key elements of the closed loop cryocooler. A miniature cryogenic centrifugal circulator in a separate pressurized neon loop transports heat from the NICMOS instrument to the cryocooler interface heat exchanger. This paper describes the development of the system, key operational features, ground and orbital tests prior to its deployment, and operational results during its five-year operational history on orbit.

Transanal pull-through procedure for Hirschsprung's disease: a 5-year experience.

PubMed

Jester, I; Holland-Cunz, S; Loff, S; Hosie, S; Reinshagen, K; Wirth, H; Ali, M; Waag, K-L

2009-04-01

Transanal endorectal pull-through (TEPT) has become a widely used approach for the treatment of Hirschsprung's Disease. The technique is safe and, according to previous reports, it has a good clinical outcome. In this study our experience with TEPT in the early postoperative period is evaluated. The clinical course of 34 children (28 boys and 6 girls) who underwent one-stage pull-through operation according to De la Torre for Hirschsprung's disease from January 2003 to December 2007 was reviewed. Their ages ranged from 2 months to 4 years. Complications occurring within the first four weeks after operation were analyzed. Eight of 34 children (24 %) had early complications in the form of dehiscences of the anastomosis. Two children (6 %) had symptomatic anastomotic dehiscences. One child had an almost full retraction of the colon that had to be pulled down and resutured. One child developed a retrorectal abscess three weeks postoperatively due to anastomotic leakage. The dehiscences of 6 children (18 %) were asymptomatic. These dehiscences were detected only with standardized routine examination. The dehiscences healed uneventfully after resuturing. Two other patients (6 %) developed an anastomotic stricture that could be treated with rectal dilatations. Four children (12 %) showed a single episode of postoperative enterocolitis. The rate of early clinical and particularly subclinical complications such as anastomotic dehiscences after TEPT is higher than previously estimated. Patients should be monitored carefully during the early postoperative period. Severe complications can only be avoided with a thorough examination. Early resuturing of dehiscences might be helpful to prevent hazardous sequelae.

Long-term Outcomes after Truncus Arteriosus Repair: A Single-center Experience for More than 40 Years.

PubMed

Asagai, Seiji; Inai, Kei; Shinohara, Tokuko; Tomimatsu, Hirofumi; Ishii, Tetsuko; Sugiyama, Hisashi; Park, In-Sam; Nagashima, Mitsugi; Nakanishi, Toshio

2016-12-01

This study aimed to analyze long-term survival and functional outcomes after truncus arteriosus repair in a single institution with more than 40 years of follow-up. Medical records were analyzed retrospectively in 52 patients who underwent the Rastelli procedure for truncus arteriosus repair between 1974 and 2002. Thirty-five patients survived the initial repair. The median age at the initial operation was 2.8 months (range, 0.1-123 months) and the body weight was 3.9 kg (range, 1.6 to 15.0 kg). The median age at follow-up was 23.6 years (range, 12.4 to 44.5 years). The median follow-up duration was 23.4 years (range, 12.3 to 40.7 years). The actuarial survival rate was 97% at 10 years and 93% at both 20 years and 40 years after the initial operation. At follow-up, most patients were in New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional classes I (73%) and II (24%). Thirty-six percent of patients had full-time jobs, 40% were students, and 21% were unemployed. Most patients (97%) had undergone conduit reoperations. Freedom from reoperation for right ventricular (RV) outflow and pulmonary artery (PA) stenosis was 59% at 5 years, 28% at 10 years, and 3% at 20 years after the initial operation. Freedom from catheter interventions for RV outflow and PA stenosis was 59% at 5 years, 47% at 10 years, and 38% at 20 years after the initial operation. Freedom from truncal valve replacement was 88% at 5 years, 85% at 10 years, and 70% at 20 years after the initial operation. In this single-center retrospective study, with long-term follow-up after repair of truncus arteriosus, long-term survival and functional outcomes were acceptable, despite the requirement for reoperation and multiple catheter interventions for RV outflow and PA stenosis in almost all patients, and the frequent requirement for late truncal valve operations. © 2016 The Authors. Congenital Heart Disease published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Can Rural Minimally Invasive Surgery Fellowships Provide Operative Experience Similar to Urban Programs?

PubMed

Ryan, James Patrick; Borgert, Andrew J; Kallies, Kara J; Carlson, Lea M; McCollister, Howard; Severson, Paul A; Kothari, Shanu N

2016-01-01

Operative experience in rural fellowship programs is largely unknown. The 2 of the most rural minimally invasive surgery (MIS)/bariatric fellowships are located in the upper Midwest. We hypothesized that these 2 programs would offer a similar operative experience to other U.S. programs in more urban locations. The 2011 to 2012 and 2012 to 2013 fellowship case logs from 2 rural Midwest programs were compared with case logs from 23 U.S. MIS/bariatric programs. All rural Midwest fellowship graduates completed a survey describing their fellowship experience and current practice. Statistical analysis included Wilcoxon rank-sum test. Setting included the 2 rural Midwest U.S. MIS/bariatric fellowship programs. Graduates from MIS/bariatric fellowship programs participated in the study. Mean volumes for bariatric, foregut, abdominal wall, small intestine, and hepatobiliary cases for rural Midwest fellows vs. other U.S. programs were 123.8 ± 23.7 vs. 150.2 ± 49.2 (p = 0.20); 44.3 ± 19.4 vs. 66.3 ± 35.5 (p = 0.18); 48.3 ± 28.0 vs. 57.9 ± 27.8 (p = 0.58); 11.3 ± 1.9 vs. 12.0 ± 8.7 (p = 0.58); and 55.0 ± 34.8 vs. 48.1 ± 42.6 (p = 0.63), respectively. Mean endoscopy volume was significantly higher among rural Midwest fellows (451.0 ± 395.2 vs. 99.7 ± 83.4; p = 0.05). All rural Midwest fellows reported an adequate number of cases as operating surgeon during fellowship. A total of 60% of fellows currently practice in a rural area. In all, 87% and 13% reported that their fellowship training was extremely or somewhat beneficial to their current practice, respectively. Rural MIS fellowship programs offer a similar operative experience to other U.S. programs. A greater volume of endoscopy cases was observed in rural Midwest fellowships. Copyright © 2016 Association of Program Directors in Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Onboard Autonomy and Ground Operations Automation for the Intelligent Payload Experiment (IPEX) CubeSat Mission

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chien, Steve; Doubleday, Joshua; Ortega, Kevin; Tran, Daniel; Bellardo, John; Williams, Austin; Piug-Suari, Jordi; Crum, Gary; Flatley, Thomas

2012-01-01

The Intelligent Payload Experiment (IPEX) is a cubesat manifested for launch in October 2013 that will flight validate autonomous operations for onboard instrument processing and product generation for the Intelligent Payload Module (IPM) of the Hyperspectral Infra-red Imager (HyspIRI) mission concept. We first describe the ground and flight operations concept for HyspIRI IPM operations. We then describe the ground and flight operations concept for the IPEX mission and how that will validate HyspIRI IPM operations. We then detail the current status of the mission and outline the schedule for future development.

Comfort and experience with online learning: trends over nine years and associations with knowledge.

PubMed

Cook, David A; Thompson, Warren G

2014-07-01

Some evidence suggests that attitude toward computer-based instruction is an important determinant of success in online learning. We sought to determine how comfort using computers and perceptions of prior online learning experiences have changed over the past decade, and how these associate with learning outcomes. Each year from 2003-2011 we conducted a prospective trial of online learning. As part of each year's study, we asked medicine residents about their comfort using computers and if their previous experiences with online learning were favorable. We assessed knowledge using a multiple-choice test. We used regression to analyze associations and changes over time. 371 internal medicine and family medicine residents participated. Neither comfort with computers nor perceptions of prior online learning experiences showed a significant change across years (p > 0.61), with mean comfort rating 3.96 (maximum 5 = very comfortable) and mean experience rating 4.42 (maximum 6 = strongly agree [favorable]). Comfort showed no significant association with knowledge scores (p = 0.39) but perceptions of prior experiences did, with a 1.56% rise in knowledge score for a 1-point rise in experience score (p = 0.02). Correlations among comfort, perceptions of prior experiences, and number of prior experiences were all small and not statistically significant. Comfort with computers and perceptions of prior experience with online learning remained stable over nine years. Prior good experiences (but not comfort with computers) demonstrated a modest association with knowledge outcomes, suggesting that prior course satisfaction may influence subsequent learning.

Operational Experience from LCLS-II Cryomodule Testing

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wang, Renzhuo; Hansen, Benjamin; White, Michael

This paper describes the initial operational experience gained from testing Linac Coherent Light Source II (LCLS-II) cryomodules at Fermilab’s Cryomodule Test Facility (CMTF). Strategies for a controlled slow cooldown to 100 K and a fast cooldown past the niobium superconducting transition temperature of 9.2 K will be described. The test stand for the cryomodules at CMTF is sloped to match gradient in the LCLS-II tunnel at Stanford Linear Accelerator (SLAC) laboratory, which adds an additional challenge to stable liquid level control. Control valve regulation, Superconducting Radio-Frequency (SRF) power compensation, and other methods of stabilizing liquid level and pressure in themore » cryomodule 2.0 K SRF cavity circuit will be discussed. Several different pumping configurations using cold compressors and warm vacuum pumps have been used on the cryomodule 2.0 K return line and the associated results will be described.« less

Operational experience from LCLS-II cryomodule testing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, R.; Hansen, B.; White, M.; Hurd, J.; Atassi, O. Al; Bossert, R.; Pei, L.; Klebaner, A.; Makara, J.; Theilacker, J.; Kaluzny, J.; Wu, G.; Harms, E.

2017-12-01

This paper describes the initial operational experience gained from testing Linac Coherent Light Source II (LCLS-II) cryomodules at Fermilab’s Cryomodule Test Facility (CMTF). Strategies for a controlled slow cooldown to 100 K and a fast cooldown past the niobium superconducting transition temperature of 9.2 K will be described. The test stand for the cryomodules at CMTF is sloped to match gradient in the LCLS-II tunnel at Stanford Linear Accelerator (SLAC) laboratory, which adds an additional challenge to stable liquid level control. Control valve regulation, Superconducting Radio-Frequency (SRF) power compensation, and other methods of stabilizing liquid level and pressure in the cryomodule 2.0 K SRF cavity circuit will be discussed. Several different pumping configurations using cold compressors and warm vacuum pumps have been used on the cryomodule 2.0 K return line and the associated results will be described.

Droplet Combustion Experiment Operates

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2003-01-01

Fuel ignites and burns in the Droplet Combustion Experiment (DCE) on STS-94 on July 12, 1997, MET:11/07:00 (approximate). DCE used various fuels -- in drops ranging from 1 mm (0.04 inches) to 5 mm (0.2 inches) -- and mixtures of oxidizers and inert gases to learn more about the physics of combustion in the simplest burning configuration, a sphere. The DCE was designed to investigate the fundamental combustion aspects of single, isolated droplets under different pressures and ambient oxygen concentrations for a range of droplet sizes varying between 2 and 5 mm. The experiment elapsed time is shown at the bottom of the composite image. The DCE principal investigator was Forman Williams, University of California, San Diego. The experiment was part of the space research investigations conducted during the Microgravity Science Laboratory-1R mission (STS-94, July 1-17 1997). Advanced combustion experiments will be a part of investigations plarned for the International Space Station. (119KB JPEG, 658 x 982 pixels; downlinked video, higher quality not available) The MPG from which this composite was made is available at http://mix.msfc.nasa.gov/ABSTRACTS/MSFC-0300171.html.

Operation of MRO's High Resolution Imaging Science Experiment (HiRISE): Maximizing Science Participation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Eliason, E.; Hansen, C. J.; McEwen, A.; Delamere, W. A.; Bridges, N.; Grant, J.; Gulich, V.; Herkenhoff, K.; Keszthelyi, L.; Kirk, R.

2003-01-01

Science return from the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO) High Resolution Imaging Science Experiment (HiRISE) will be optimized by maximizing science participation in the experiment. MRO is expected to arrive at Mars in March 2006, and the primary science phase begins near the end of 2006 after aerobraking (6 months) and a transition phase. The primary science phase lasts for almost 2 Earth years, followed by a 2-year relay phase in which science observations by MRO are expected to continue. We expect to acquire approx. 10,000 images with HiRISE over the course of MRO's two earth-year mission. HiRISE can acquire images with a ground sampling dimension of as little as 30 cm (from a typical altitude of 300 km), in up to 3 colors, and many targets will be re-imaged for stereo. With such high spatial resolution, the percent coverage of Mars will be very limited in spite of the relatively high data rate of MRO (approx. 10x greater than MGS or Odyssey). We expect to cover approx. 1% of Mars at approx. 1m/pixel or better, approx. 0.1% at full resolution, and approx. 0.05% in color or in stereo. Therefore, the placement of each HiRISE image must be carefully considered in order to maximize the scientific return from MRO. We believe that every observation should be the result of a mini research project based on pre-existing datasets. During operations, we will need a large database of carefully researched 'suggested' observations to select from. The HiRISE team is dedicated to involving the broad Mars community in creating this database, to the fullest degree that is both practical and legal. The philosophy of the team and the design of the ground data system are geared to enabling community involvement. A key aspect of this is that image data will be made available to the planetary community for science analysis as quickly as possible to encourage feedback and new ideas for targets.

Wilderness visitor experiences: A selective review of 50 years of research

Treesearch

David N. Cole

2012-01-01

Two of the foremost conclusions from 50 years of research on wilderness visitors are that experiences are highly idiosyncratic and visitors are highly adaptable. The reasons people visit wilderness, their experiential aspirations, and their experiences in wilderness vary greatly among people and within people from visit to visit. Along with people's adaptability...

How do early emotional experiences in the operating theatre influence medical student learning in this environment?

PubMed

Bowrey, David J; Kidd, Jane M

2014-01-01

The emotions experienced by medical students on first exposure to the operating theatre are unknown. It is also unclear what influence these emotions have on the learning process. To understand the emotions experienced by students when in the operating theatre for the first time and the impact of these emotions on learning. Nine 3rd-year medical students participated in semistructured interviews to explore these themes. A qualitative approach was used; interviews were transcribed and coded thematically. All participants reported initial negative emotions (apprehension, anxiety, fear, shame, overwhelmed), with excitement being reported by 3. Six participants considered that their anxiety was so overwhelming that it was detrimental to their learning. Participants described a period of familiarization to the environment, after which learning was facilitated. Early learning experiences centered around adjustment to the physical environment of the operating theatre. Factors driving initial negative feelings were loss of familiarity, organizational issues, concerns about violating protocol, and a fear of syncope. Participants considered that it took a median of 1 week (range = 1 day-3 weeks) or 5 visits to the operating theatre (range = 1-10) before feeling comfortable in the new setting. Emotions experienced on subsequent visits to the operating theatre were predominantly positive (enjoyment, happiness, confident, involved, pride). Two participants reported negative feelings related to social exclusion. Being included in the team was a powerful determinant of enjoyment. These findings indicate that for learning in the operating theatre to be effective, addressing the negative emotions of the students might be beneficial. This could be achieved by a formal orientation program for both learners and tutors in advance of attendance in the operating theatre. For learning to be optimized, students must feel a sense of inclusion in the theatre community of practice.

The 274th Forward Surgical Team experience during Operation Enduring Freedom.

PubMed

Peoples, George E; Gerlinger, Tad; Craig, Robert; Burlingame, Brian

2005-06-01

The 274th Forward Surgical Team (FST) was deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom from October 14, 2001 to May 8, 2002. During this period, the FST was asked to perform many nondoctrinal missions. The FST was tasked with functioning as a mini-combat support hospital during the earlier phases of Operation Enduring Freedom, performing in-flight surgical procedures and resuscitation of combat wounded, conducting split operations with surgical coverage of both Karshi and Khanabad, Uzbekistan, and Bagram, Afghanistan, and leading the multinational medical coalition assembled for Operation Anaconda and other combat operations staged from Bagram. Overall, the 274th FST took care of approximately 90% of U.S. combat casualties during this period and treated a total of 221 combat casualties. The FST treated 103 total surgical cases, including 73 with combat wounds. At the time, this experience with combat casualties and the surgical care of combat wounds was the largest since the Persian Gulf War. More importantly, this account describes the flow, frequency, and type of combat casualties seen in a low-intensity conflict like that being waged currently in Afghanistan. It is hoped that this depiction will aid in the preparation, equipping, and overall utilization of surgical assets in similar future conflicts.

Penile injuries: A 10-year experience

PubMed Central

Krishna Reddy, S.V.; Shaik, Ahammad Basha; Sreenivas, K.

2014-01-01

We report our 10-year experience with penile injuries. We retrospectively reviewed the records of 156 cases of male external genitalia injuries between May 2002 and December 2012. Of these, only 26 patients presented without urethral injuries and were included in this study. Patients were divided into 4 groups: Group 1 (n = 12) with patients with penile fractures injuries; Group 2 (n = 5) with patients with penile amputation injuries; Group 3 (n = 2) with patients with penile penetrating injuries; and Group 4 (n = 7) with patients with penile soft tissue injuries. Grading of injury was done using the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma (AAST)-Organ injury scale of penile injury. Penile injuries without urethral injuries are urological emergencies which require immediate attention. PMID:25295134

Further experience with the operative management of asphyxiating thoracic dystrophy after pectus repair.

PubMed

Weber, Thomas R

2005-01-01

Asphyxiating thoracic dystrophy (ATD) can occur years after a Ravitch-type repair of pectus excavatum, resulting in debilitating alteration in pulmonary function (PFT). An operation was devised to attempt repair of this deformity. After institutional review board approval, the records of 10 children (ages 9-18 years) with ATD that developed 4 to 12 years postpectus operation who underwent attempted repair of ATD were reviewed. Data obtained before ATD operation and at 6, 12, and 24 months afterward included chest computed tomography, pulmonary functions (PFT), and a quality of life questionnaire. The operation consisted of sternal split with rib graft placement to permanently hold the sternum apart. All children survived and the bone grafts healed solidly. Computed tomography showed a change from a flat to a round chest contour on cross section, with increased anteroposterior dimension. Two patients had no change in PFT at 24 months whereas the other 8 had 21% to 30% improvement in PFT parameters. All patients reported improved exercise tolerance, and 3 began sports activities who were previously unable to do so. Two patients on oxygen, essentially bedridden, are now active, breathing only room air. Seven of 10 patients continue to have cosmetic concerns. A small population of patients who had postoperative pectus repair developed severe, debilitating ATD. The repair described improves most patients, some dramatically, but does not significantly improve cosmetic appearance. The operation is undergoing further refinement to address these issues.

Staged surgical management of hypoplastic left heart syndrome: a single institution 12 year experience

PubMed Central

McGuirk, S P; Griselli, M; Stumper, O F; Rumball, E M; Miller, P; Dhillon, R; de Giovanni, J V; Wright, J G; Barron, D J; Brawn, W J

2006-01-01

Objective To describe a 12 year experience with staged surgical management of the hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) and to identify the factors that influenced outcome. Methods Between December 1992 and June 2004, 333 patients with HLHS underwent a Norwood procedure (median age 4 days, range 0–217 days). Subsequently 203 patients underwent a bidirectional Glenn procedure (stage II) and 81 patients underwent a modified Fontan procedure (stage III). Follow up was complete (median interval 3.7 years, range 32 days to 11.3 years). Results Early mortality after the Norwood procedure was 29% (n  =  95); this decreased from 46% (first year) to 16% (last year; p < 0.05). Between stages, 49 patients died, 27 before stage II and 22 between stages II and III. There were one early and three late deaths after stage III. Actuarial survival (SEM) was 58% (3%) at one year and 50% (3%) at five and 10 years. On multivariable analysis, five factors influenced early mortality after the Norwood procedure (p < 0.05). Pulmonary blood flow supplied by a right ventricle to pulmonary artery (RV‐PA) conduit, arch reconstruction with pulmonary homograft patch, and increased operative weight improved early mortality. Increased periods of cardiopulmonary bypass and deep hypothermic circulatory arrest increased early mortality. Similar factors also influenced actuarial survival after the Norwood procedure. Conclusion This study identified an improvement in outcome after staged surgical management of HLHS, which was primarily attributable to changes in surgical technique. The RV‐PA conduit, in particular, was associated with a notable and independent improvement in early and actuarial survival. PMID:15939721

76 FR 67425 - Availability of the Fiscal Year 2010 United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) Inventory...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-11-01

... Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) Inventory List of Contracts for Services; Correction AGENCY: United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), Department of Defense (DoD). ACTION: Notice of availability... Fiscal Year 2010 United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) Inventory List of Contracts for...

Freshmen Marketing: A First-Year Experience with Experiential Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Greene, Henry

2011-01-01

This paper describes an experiential learning activity designed for a New England university freshmen course, BUS101-Marketing First-Year Experience (FYE). The purpose of the activity is to teach basic principles of marketing, develop a general perspective of business, and provide FYE activities that facilitate the college transition. The specific…

The accelerated residency program: the Marshall University family practice 9-year experience.

PubMed

Petrany, Stephen M; Crespo, Richard

2002-10-01

In 1989, the American Board of Family Practice (ABFP) approved the first of 12 accelerated residency programs in family practice. These experimental programs provide a 1-year experience for select medical students that combines the requirements of the fourth year of medical school with those of the first year of residency, reducing the total training time by 1 year. This paper reports on the achievements and limitations of the Marshall University accelerated residency program over a 9-year period that began in 1992. Several parameters have been monitored since the inception of the accelerated program and provide the basis for comparison of accelerated and traditional residents. These include initial resident characteristics, performance outcomes, and practice choices. A total of 16 students were accepted into the accelerated track from 1992 through 1998. During the same time period, 44 residents entered the traditional residency program. Accelerated resident tended to be older and had more career experience than their traditional counterparts. As a group, the accelerated residents scored an average of 30 points higher on the final in-training exams provided by the ABFP. All residents in both groups remained at Marshall to complete the full residency training experience, and all those who have taken the ABFP certifying exam have passed. Accelerated residents were more likely to practice in West Virginia, consistent with one of the initial goals for the program. In addition, accelerated residents were more likely to be elected chief resident and choose an academic career than those in the traditional group. Both groups opted for small town or rural practice equally. The Marshall University family practice 9-year experience with the accelerated residency track demonstrates that for carefully selected candidates, the program can provide an overall shortened path to board certification and attract students who excel academically and have high leadership potential

Endoscopic Repair of CSF Fistulae: A Ten Year Experience

PubMed Central

Alexander, Arun; Mathew, John; Varghese, Ajoy Mathew

2016-01-01

Introduction Cerebrospinal Fluid (CFF) fistulae are repaired endoscopically with varying degrees of success around the world. Large series are still uncommon, and the results varied primarily because of the different techniques by different surgeons and also because of a variation in the patient profile in each series, for example, many series deal primarily with traumatic CSF leaks where the defects are larger and outcomes poorer. Aim To analyse the surgical outcomes of Endoscopic CSF rhinorrhea closure. Materials and Methods This is a series of 34 cases operated upon primarily by one surgeon in two different centres over a period of 10 years. Results Of the 34 cases, 76% of the patients were women. Among the patients only 20.6% patients had a history of trauma preceding the CSF leak. The most common site of leak was in the fovea ethmoidalis in 19 (55.8%) followed by 10 (29.4%) in the cribriform plate. An overlay technique of placing the multiple layers of fascia and mucosa was used in 26 (76.5%) patients and underlay technique in the remaining. Postoperative lumbar drain was used in all patients. Conclusion Based on the treatment outcome of the 34 patients, it can be concluded that the success rate of a single endoscopic procedure in our experience is 97% and 100% following the second. Endoscopic approach for closure of CSF leak is safe with minimal complications and little morbidity. PMID:27656471

Coordinate Systems, Numerical Objects and Algorithmic Operations of Computational Experiment in Fluid Mechanics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Degtyarev, Alexander; Khramushin, Vasily

2016-02-01

The paper deals with the computer implementation of direct computational experiments in fluid mechanics, constructed on the basis of the approach developed by the authors. The proposed approach allows the use of explicit numerical scheme, which is an important condition for increasing the effciency of the algorithms developed by numerical procedures with natural parallelism. The paper examines the main objects and operations that let you manage computational experiments and monitor the status of the computation process. Special attention is given to a) realization of tensor representations of numerical schemes for direct simulation; b) realization of representation of large particles of a continuous medium motion in two coordinate systems (global and mobile); c) computing operations in the projections of coordinate systems, direct and inverse transformation in these systems. Particular attention is paid to the use of hardware and software of modern computer systems.

Totally biological composite aortic stentless valved conduit for aortic root replacement: 10-year experience

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Objectives To retrospectively analyze the clinical outcome of a totally biological composite stentless aortic valved conduit (No-React® BioConduit) implanted using the Bentall procedure over ten years in a single centre. Methods Between 27/10/99 and 19/01/08, the No-React® BioConduit composite graft was implanted in 67 patients. Data on these patients were collected from the in-hospital database, from patient notes and from questionnaires. A cohort of patients had 2D-echocardiogram with an average of 4.3 ± 0.45 years post-operatively to evaluate valve function, calcification, and the diameter of the conduit. Results Implantation in 67 patients represented a follow-up of 371.3 patient-year. Males were 60% of the operated population, with a mean age of 67.9 ± 1.3 years (range 34.1-83.8 years), 21 of them below the age of 65. After a mean follow-up of 7.1 ± 0.3 years (range of 2.2-10.5 years), more than 50% of the survivors were in NYHA I/II and more than 60% of the survivors were angina-free (CCS 0). The overall 10-year survival following replacement of the aortic valve and root was 51%. During this period, 88% of patients were free from valved-conduit related complications leading to mortality. Post-operative echocardiography studies showed no evidence of stenosis, dilatation, calcification or thrombosis. Importantly, during the 10-year follow-up period no failures of the valved conduit were reported, suggesting that the tissue of the conduit does not structurally change (histology of one explant showed normal cusp and conduit). Conclusions The No-React® BioConduit composite stentless aortic valved conduit provides excellent long-term clinical results for aortic root replacement with few prosthesis-related complications in the first post-operative decade. PMID:21699696

Adult scoliosis in patients over sixty-five years of age: outcomes of operative versus nonoperative treatment at a minimum two-year follow-up.

PubMed

Li, Gang; Passias, Peter; Kozanek, Michal; Fu, Eric; Wang, Shaobai; Xia, Qun; Li, Guoan; Rand, Frank E; Wood, Kirkham B

2009-09-15

Retrospective case-control study. The purpose of this study was to compare the self-reported outcomes between operatively and nonoperatively treated patients over the age of 65 with adult scoliosis, using 4 distinct self-assessment questionnaires (SRS-22, SF-12, EQ5D, and Oswestry disability index [ODI]) and standard radiographic measurement parameters. The current spine literature contains no studies that directly compare the self-reported and radiographic outcomes of operatively and nonoperatively treated patients over the age of 65 years with adult scoliosis. We retrospectively analyzed the self-reported outcomes of 83 adult scoliosis in patients over the age of 65 years. A total of 34 patients were treated operatively, whereas 49 patients were managed nonoperatively. For each of these patients, standard radiographic measurements were recorded both before and after treatment, and each patient received 4 questionnaires (SRS-22, SF-12, EQ5D, and ODI) that were completed with a minimum of 2-year follow-up from the time the treatment was initiated. The outcomes of both groups were then statistically compared. As compared to the nonoperative group, the operative group reported significantly better self-assessment scores for the EQ5D index, EQ5D Visual Analogue Score, and SRS-22 questionnaires. However, no statistically significant difference between the groups was detected for the ODI, SF-12 Mental Health Component Summary, and SF-12 PCS. Furthermore, the operative group also had a significant improvement in radiographic measurements. Adult scoliosis patients over the age of 65 years treated operatively had significantly less pain, a better health-related quality of life, self image, mental health, and were more satisfied with their treatment than patients treated conservatively. However, we found no statistically significant differences in their degree of disability as measured by the ODI as well as physical and mental health by the SF-12 instrument. Preoperative

An Experiment on Impatiens New Guinea for 11-12 Year Olds

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McEwan, Birgitta

2008-01-01

The following experiment describes an easy experiment for children 11-12 years old, performed during spring in a compulsory school near Karlstad, Sweden. Four different ripe fruits were placed under flowering plants of Impatiens New Guinea (Impatiens hawkeri) for four days on a table and with plastic bags around both plants and fruits. For one of…

[Surgical treatment of anorectal fistulas. A 17-year experience at the Instituto Nacional de la Nutrición "Salvador Zubirán"].

PubMed

Ayala, M; Jiménez, R; García-Osogobio, S; Mass, W; Gómez, F; Remes-Troche, J M; Arch, J; Takahaskhi, T

1999-01-01

Surgical treatment for anorectal fistula may be difficult because of the risk of recurrence, prolonged healing or anal incontinence following the operation. To analyze the experience with the surgical management of ano-rectal fistula during a period of 17 years. The medical records of 105 patients with anorectal fistulas were reviewed retrospectively, with analysis of demographic and clinical data, operative treatment, and results. There were 73% men and 27% women. Mean age was 45 years. 86% had an underlying chronic disease, most frequently diabetes mellitus (21%) and obesity (14%). No anatomic classification of the fistulous tract was done in 86% of cases, and inter-sphincteric tracts were the most frequent type in the classified cases. In 90% of cases, treatment was fistulectomy. Complications occurred in 13% of cases, mainly delayed healing (6.5%). Recurrent disease was documented in 11 cases (10%), and the majority were treated with a new fistulectomy. There were no cases with anal incontinence following the operation. The necessity of performing the anatomic classification of ano-rectal fistula should be emphasized. Fistulectomy was the most frequent surgical procedure.

The Quest CCS Project - MMV Technology Deployment Through Two Years of Operation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

O'Brien, S.

2017-12-01

In September 2012, Shell, on behalf of the Athabasca Oil Sands Project venture (Shell Canada Energy, Chevron Canada Limited, Marathon Oil Canada Corporation), announced that it was proceeding to construct the Quest Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) project near Fort Saskatchewan. Quest is the world's first large-scale commercial application of CCS at an oil sands operation, and it is now capturing more than one million tonnes of CO2 per year from the Scotford Upgrader. It is a fully integrated project, involving CO2 capture at the bitumen upgrader, transportation along a 65 km pipeline, and CO2 storage in a deep saline aquifer (the Basal Cambrian Sands). Construction was completed in August 2015, and the Quest project was certified for commercial operation in September 2015. The Measurement, Monitoring and Verification (MMV) program for Quest is comprehensive, with a variety of technologies being used to monitor the atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere and geosphere. These include a Lightsource system for atmospheric monitoring, extensive groundwater sampling, DAS VSPs to assess the development of the CO2 plume, a microseismic array to measure any induced seismic activity, and temperature and pressure gauges for reservoir monitoring. Over two years of operations, this program has been optimized to address key risks while improving operational efficiency. Quest has now successfully captured and stored more than 2 million tonnes of CO2 with no MMV indications of any storage issues.

[Eleven-Year Experience with Total Ankle Arthroplasty].

PubMed

Popelka, S; Sosna, A; Vavřík, P; Jahoda, D; Barták, V; Landor, I

2016-01-01

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY Total joint replacement is one of the options in surgical treatment of advanced ankle arthritis. It allows the ankle to remain mobile but, unfortunately, it does not provide the same longevity as total knee or hip replacements. Therefore, decisions concerning the kind of treatment are very individual and depend on the clinical status and opinion of each patient. MATERIAL AND METHODS A total of 132 total ankle replacements were carried out in the period from 2004 to 2015. The prostheses used included the Ankle Evolutive System (AES) in 52 patients, Mobility Total Ankle System (DePuy) in 24 patients and, recently, Rebalance Total Ankle Replacement implant in 53 patients. Three patients allergic to metal received the Taric prosthesis. Revision arthroplasty using the Hintegra prosthesis was carried out in four patients. The outcome of arthroplasty was evaluated on the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scoring scale. Indications for total ankle arthroplasty included post-traumatic arthritis in 83 patients, rheumatoid arthritis in 37 and primary arthritis in 12 patients. There were 78 women and 54 men, with an average age of 55.6 years at the time of surgery. RESULTS The average follow-up was 6.1 years (1-11 years). The average AOFAS score of the whole group increased from 33.2 before surgery to 82.5 after it. The primary indication had an important role. Arthroplasty outcomes were poorer in patients with post-traumatic arthritis than in those with rheumatoid arthritis or primary arthritis. In patients with post-traumatic arthritis, the average AOFAS score rose to 78.6 due to restricted motion of the ankle, and some patients continued to have pain when walking. The average AOFAS score in a total of 49 patients who had rheumatoid arthritis or primary arthritis reached a value of 86.4. Post-operative complications were recorded in ten patients (7.6%) in whom part of the wound was healing by second intention. Ossification was also a

The cold neutron chopper spectrometer at the Spallation Neutron Source—A review of the first 8 years of operation

DOE PAGES

Ehlers, G.; Podlesnyak, A. A.; Kolesnikov, A. I.

2016-09-13

The first eight years of operation of the Cold Neutron Chopper Spectrometer (CNCS) at the Spallation Neutron Source in Oak Ridge is being reviewed. The instrument has been part of the facility user program since 2009, and more than 250 individual user experiments have been performed to date. CNCS is an extremely powerful and versatile instrument and offers leading edge performance in terms of beam intensity, energy resolution, and flexibility to trade one for another. In addition, experiments are being routinely performed with the sample at extreme conditions: T ≲ 0.05 K, p ≳ 2 GPa, and B = 8more » T can be achieved individually or in combination. In particular, CNCS is in a position to advance the state of the art with inelastic neutron scattering under pressure, and some of the recent accomplishments in this area will be presented in more detail.« less

SIN accelerator, operational experience and improvement programs

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Joho, W.; Olivo, M.; Stammbach, T.

1977-06-01

The SIN meson facility, in operation since 1974, consists of a 590 MeV ring cyclotron for protons and a 72 MeV injector cyclotron. The average beam current on target is presently about 50 ..mu..A, the peak being 112 ..mu..A. Extraction efficiency, once considered a severe handicap for cyclotrons, is now 99.6 to 99.9% for the ring cyclotron and about 90% for the injector. Many improvements in both accelerators allow single turn extraction in the ring cyclotron. The present current limit is given by the injector, while the ring itself could accept now a 600 ..mu..A beam, with 2 to 4more » mA as an ultimate limit. Some muon experiments require a pulsed beam with on-off times in the order of the lifetime of the muon. First trials with beam pulse frequencies of 200 and 400 kHz and a 50% duty cycle have been successful.« less

The Role of Spatial Ability in the Relationship Between Video Game Experience and Route Effectiveness Among Unmanned Vehicle Operators

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-12-01

1  THE ROLE OF SPATIAL ABILITY IN THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN VIDEO GAME EXPERIENCE AND ROUTE EFFECTIVENESS AMONG UNMANNED VEHICLE OPERATORS...ABSTRACT Effective route planning is essential to the successful operation of unmanned vehicles. Video game experience has been shown to affect...route planning and execution, but why video game experience helps has not been addressed. One answer may be that spatial skills, necessary for route

Pump-probe experiments at the TEMPO beamline using the low-α operation mode of Synchrotron SOLEIL.

PubMed

Silly, Mathieu G; Ferté, Tom; Tordeux, Marie Agnes; Pierucci, Debora; Beaulieu, Nathan; Chauvet, Christian; Pressacco, Federico; Sirotti, Fausto; Popescu, Horia; Lopez-Flores, Victor; Tortarolo, Marina; Sacchi, Maurizio; Jaouen, Nicolas; Hollander, Philippe; Ricaud, Jean Paul; Bergeard, Nicolas; Boeglin, Christine; Tudu, Bharati; Delaunay, Renaud; Luning, Jan; Malinowski, Gregory; Hehn, Michel; Baumier, Cédric; Fortuna, Franck; Krizmancic, Damjan; Stebel, Luigi; Sergo, Rudi; Cautero, Giuseppe

2017-07-01

The SOLEIL synchrotron radiation source is regularly operated in special filling modes dedicated to pump-probe experiments. Among others, the low-α mode operation is characterized by shorter pulse duration and represents the natural bridge between 50 ps synchrotron pulses and femtosecond experiments. Here, the capabilities in low-α mode of the experimental set-ups developed at the TEMPO beamline to perform pump-probe experiments with soft X-rays based on photoelectron or photon detection are presented. A 282 kHz repetition-rate femtosecond laser is synchronized with the synchrotron radiation time structure to induce fast electronic and/or magnetic excitations. Detection is performed using a two-dimensional space resolution plus time resolution detector based on microchannel plates equipped with a delay line. Results of time-resolved photoelectron spectroscopy, circular dichroism and magnetic scattering experiments are reported, and their respective advantages and limitations in the framework of high-time-resolution pump-probe experiments compared and discussed.

The lived experience of first year undergraduate student nurses: A hermeneutic phenomenological study.

PubMed

Porteous, Debra J; Machin, Alison

2018-01-01

This study gives insight into the experiences and perceptions of one group of undergraduate nursing students as they make the transition into Higher Education and the nursing profession, during the first year, of their three-year programme. Research has shown that first year undergraduate experience is complex and challenging for any student. For undergraduate nursing students, the process of achieving additional professional practice competencies required for United Kingdom nursing registration adds additional responsibility and potentially, more pressure. Few studies have considered student nurses' lived experiences during their first year of study in any depth. This study aimed to understand how one group of undergraduate nursing students perceived their experiences of the transition into higher education and nursing profession. Framed within an interpretive philosophical paradigm, a hermeneutic phenomenological approach enabled the exploration of participants' lived experiences. The study took place at a Higher Education Institution approved nurse education provider in the North of England, United Kingdom (UK). Following ethical approval, ten first year student nurses from a range of different backgrounds gave informed consent to participate. Over a one year period between 2013 and 2014 participants provided data at three points during their first year (four months, eight months and twelve months) via semi-structured, digitally recorded individual interviews (n=30) and digital recordings of critical incident accounts as they occurred (n=30). Data was transcribed verbatim, systematically thematically analysed drawing on hermeneutic phenomenological principles and verified for thematic accuracy by participants in 2015. Five themes emerged from the data: uncertainty; expectations; learning to survive; seeking support; and moving forward. Findings identify that the participants had developed skills to survive however considerable variation in their experience

The understanding and experience of mixed emotions in 3-5-year-old children.

PubMed

Smith, Joshua P; Glass, Daniel J; Fireman, Gary

2015-01-01

The term mixed emotions refers to the presence of two opposite-valence emotions toward a single target. Identifying when children begin to report experiencing and understanding mixed emotions is critical in identifying how skills such as adaptive functioning, coping strategies, environmental understanding, and socioemotional competence emerge. Prior research has shown that children as young as 5 years old can understand and experience mixed emotion, but perhaps appropriately sensitive methodologies can reveal these abilities in younger children. The present study evaluated 57 children between 3 and 5 years old for mixed emotion experience and understanding using an animated video clip in which a character experiences a mixed emotional episode. Ordinal logistic regression was utilized to examine the relation of gender, attention, and understanding of content to experience and understanding of mixed emotion. While only 12% of children reported experiencing mixed emotion while watching the clip, 49% of children-some as young as 3 years old-were able to recognize the mixed emotional experience of the character. Thus, mixed emotion understanding emerges earlier than previously identified and the expression of understanding may develop independently of the ability to report mixed emotion experience. These findings are discussed in relation to cognitive and developmental considerations.

Six Years Experience with Porcine Extracellular Matrix: A New Paradigm for Pelvic Floor Repair

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-05-06

MDW/SGVU SUBJECT: Profess ional Presentation Approval 20 APR 20 17 1. Your paper, entitled Six Years Experience with Porcine Extracellular Matrix: A...NIA 6. TITLE OF MATERIAL TO BE PUBLISHED OR PRESENTED: Six Years Experience with Porcine Extracellular Matrix: A New Paradigm for Pelvic Floor Repair

Variability in Resident Operative Hand Experience by Specialty.

PubMed

Silvestre, Jason; Lin, Ines C; Levin, L Scott; Chang, Benjamin

2018-01-01

Recent attention has sought to standardize hand surgery training in the United States. This study analyzes the variability in operative hand experience for orthopedic and general surgery residents. Case logs for orthopedic and general surgery residency graduates were obtained from the American Council of Graduate Medical Education (2006-2007 to 2014-2015). Plastic surgery case logs were not available for comparison. Hand surgery case volumes were compared between specialties with parametric tests. Intraspecialty variation in orthopedic surgery was assessed between the bottom and top 10th percentiles in procedure categories. Case logs for 9605 general surgery residents and 5911 orthopedic surgery residents were analyzed. Orthopedic surgery residents performed a greater number of hand surgery cases than general surgery residents ( P < .001). Mean total hand experience ranged from 2.5 ± 4 to 2.8 ± 5 procedures for general surgery residents with no reported cases of soft tissue repairs, vascular repairs, and replants. Significant intraspecialty variation existed in orthopedic surgery for all hand procedure categories (range, 3.3-15.0). As the model for hand surgery training evolves, general surgeons may represent an underutilized talent pool to meet the critical demand for hand surgeon specialists. Future research is needed to determine acceptable levels of training variability in hand surgery.

[First experience with hybrid operations for chronic obstruction of iliac-femoral segment veins in patients with post-thrombotic disease].

PubMed

Pokrovskiĭ, A V; Ignat'ev, I M; Volodiukhin, M Iu; Gradusov, E G

The present study was aimed at assessing initial results of hybrid operations in obstructive lesions of the iliac-femoral veins in patients with post-thrombotic disease (PTD). Hybrid operations [open endovenectomy from the common femoral vein (CFV) with creation of an arteriovenous fistula + stenting of iliac veins] were performed carried out in a total of eleven patients with PTD. Of these, there were 7 men and 4 women aged from 34 to 52 years (mean age - 42.8±7 years). All patients had severe-degree chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). The distribution of patients according to the CEAP classification was as follows: C4a - 2 patients, C4b - 4 patients, C5 - 4 subjects, C6 - 1 patient. The time having elapsed since a newly onset episode of acute iliac-femoral venous thrombosis varied from 2 to 12 years (averagely - 7.1±3.3 years). The degree of manifestation of PTD was determined by means of the Villalta-Pradoni scale before and 6 months after the operation. Instrumental methods of study included ultrasound duplex scanning (USDS), magnetic resonance and/or multispiral computed venography, and contrast-enhanced X-ray venography. The technical success of the procedure amounted to 91%. In one patient with occlusion of the common and external iliac veins we failed to perform recanalization and stenting. A further one patient developed in-stent and CFV thrombosis on the second postoperative day. An attempt of catheter thrombolysis turned out unsuccessful. There were no wound complications in the postoperative period. Neither was pulmonary artery thromboembolism registered. The dynamic control was carried out by means of USDS before discharge from hospital and at 1, 3 and 6 months after the intervention. The outcomes of hybrid operations after 6 months were followed up in five patients. Secondary patency rate of the stented iliac veins amounted to 100%. No relapses of trophic ulcers were observed. According to the Villalta-Prandoni scale the value of the median of the

[Mobbing: ten-year evaluation experience in a University Hospital].

PubMed

Monaco, Edoardo; Girardi, Paolo; Falaschi, Paolo; Ferracuti, Stefano; Martocchia, Antonio; Battaglia, Valentina; Capitanelli, Ilaria; Catarinozzi, Elena; Piccari, Ines; Rossi, Marina; Prestigiacomo, Claudio

2017-11-01

Bullying is a manifestation of occupational stress and can therefore be considered as a real "organizational pathology." Include the activities of the surgery dedicated to Mobbing, Unit of Occupational Medicine Sant'Andrea Hospital, which began operations in June 2001. In over ten years of operation (July 2012), the sample, consisting of 50.7% for men and 49.3% women, is heterogeneous in age. The schooling of the sample is medium-high as more than 82% have higher education level. The business sector is the service sector accounted for most (84%) than in industry (9%) and agriculture (2%). Of the 1545 patients seen, 1320 completed the diagnostic path, while 225 have stopped. 814 users have been certified for compatibility bullying (63% of cases) with a net reduction of the awards from 2007 onwards. Considerations are expressed about the possible intervention strategies: the presence of dedicated experts at the counters of listening and professionals as the trusted advisor, to which workers in distress can call on for advice and guidance on how to defend itself from, in accordance with the implemented for years at the Ministry of Health, the establishment of such figures as the manager rehability that in other European countries, are scheduled for some time in work organization. Copyright© by Aracne Editrice, Roma, Italy.

Terry Turbopump Analytical Modeling Efforts in Fiscal Year 2016 ? Progress Report.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Osborn, Douglas; Ross, Kyle; Cardoni, Jeffrey N

This document details the Fiscal Year 2016 modeling efforts to define the true operating limitations (margins) of the Terry turbopump systems used in the nuclear industry for Milestone 3 (full-scale component experiments) and Milestone 4 (Terry turbopump basic science experiments) experiments. The overall multinational-sponsored program creates the technical basis to: (1) reduce and defer additional utility costs, (2) simplify plant operations, and (3) provide a better understanding of the true margin which could reduce overall risk of operations.

Development of a list of high-risk operations for patients 65 years and older.

PubMed

Schwarze, Margaret L; Barnato, Amber E; Rathouz, Paul J; Zhao, Qianqian; Neuman, Heather B; Winslow, Emily R; Kennedy, Gregory D; Hu, Yue-Yung; Dodgion, Christopher M; Kwok, Alvin C; Greenberg, Caprice C

2015-04-01

No consensus exists regarding the definition of high-risk surgery in older adults. An inclusive and precise definition of high-risk surgery may be useful for surgeons, patients, researchers, and hospitals. To develop a list of high-risk operations. Retrospective cohort study and modified Delphi procedure. The setting included all Pennsylvania acute care hospitals (Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council [PHC4] April 1, 2001, to December 31, 2007) and a nationally representative sample of US acute care hospitals (Nationwide Inpatient Sample [NIS], Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality January 1, 2001, to December 31, 2006). Patients included were those 65 years and older admitted to PHC4 hospitals and those 18 years and older admitted to NIS hospitals. We identified International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM) procedure codes associated with at least 1% inpatient mortality in the PHC4. We used a modified Delphi procedure with 5 board-certified surgeons to further refine this list by excluding nonoperative procedures and operations that were unlikely to be the proximate cause of mortality and were instead a marker of critical illness (eg, tracheostomy). We then cross-validated this list of ICD-9-CM codes in the NIS. Modified Delphi procedure consensus of at least 4 of 5 panelists and proportion agreement in the NIS. Among 4,739,522 admissions of patients 65 years and older in the PHC4, a total of 2,569,589 involved a procedure, encompassing 2853 unique procedures. Of 1130 procedures associated with a crude inpatient mortality of at least 1%, 264 achieved consensus as high-risk operations by the modified Delphi procedure. The observed inpatient mortality in the NIS was at least 1% for 227 of 264 procedures (86%) in patients 65 years and older. The pooled inpatient mortality for these identified high-risk procedures performed on patients 65 years and older was double

Enhanced Component Performance Study: Air-Operated Valves 1998-2014

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Schroeder, John Alton

2015-11-01

This report presents a performance evaluation of air-operated valves (AOVs) at U.S. commercial nuclear power plants. The data used in this study are based on the operating experience failure reports from fiscal year 1998 through 2014 for the component reliability as reported in the Institute of Nuclear Power Operations (INPO) Consolidated Events Database (ICES). The AOV failure modes considered are failure-to-open/close, failure to operate or control, and spurious operation. The component reliability estimates and the reliability data are trended for the most recent 10-year period, while yearly estimates for reliability are provided for the entire active period. One statistically significantmore » trend was observed in the AOV data: The frequency of demands per reactor year for valves recording the fail-to-open or fail-to-close failure modes, for high-demand valves (those with greater than twenty demands per year), was found to be decreasing. The decrease was about three percent over the ten year period trended.« less

Commercial Experiment Transporter: COMET

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wessling, Francis C.; Robinson, Michael; Martinez, Ramiro S.; Gallimore, Thomas; Combs, Nick

1994-09-01

A launch system consisting of ground-support equipment, a four-stage rocket, a service module, a recovery system and a recovery site, and an orbital operations center is being assembled. The system is designed to launch 818 kg (1800 lb) to a 552-km (300-n.mi.) low earth orbit at a 40-deg inclination. Experiment space exists in both the service module and the recovery system. The service module provides space for 68 kg (150 lb) of experiments plus telemetry services, attitude control, and power and uses no consumables to maintain attitude. Consequently, the service module can maintain orbit attitude for years. Power of 400 W is supplied by solar cells and batteries for both experiment operation and housekeeping. The recovery system houses an experiment carrier for 136 kg (300 lb) of experiments, a retro rocket, a heat shield, and a parachute. An orbital operations control center provides tracking, telemetry, and commanding for the satellite. The payloads are also briefly described. The first launch was scheduled for 1995.

Post-Chernobyl incidence of papillary thyroid cancer among Belgian children less than 15 years of age in April 1986: a 30-year surgical experience.

PubMed

Michel, Luc A; Donckier, Julian; Rosière, Alain; Fervaille, Caroline; Lemaire, Julien; Bertrand, Claude

2016-04-01

We raised the question of a possible relationship in Belgium between the occurrence of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) and age of children (<15 years) at the time of the Chernobyl nuclear plant accident in April 1986. Referral university centre for endocrine surgery. Thirty-year prospective study of the experience of a surgical team with PTC since the Chernobyl accident, taken out of 2349 patients operated on for any thyroid lesions from April 1986 to April 2015, comparing the incidence of PTC by age groups. Comparison of PTC incidence in patients >15 years (group A) and children <15 years (group B) in April 1986. Out of a total of 2349 patients having undergone thyroid surgery for all types of lesions during 30 year after Chernobyl and born before April 1986, 2164 were >15 years of age at the time of the nuclear accident (group A) and 175 developed PTC (8.1%) compared to 36 PTC (19.5%) that occurred in 185 children <15 years of age (group B) in April 1986 (p < 0.001). Radiation exposure affected residents of countries (including Belgium) well beyond Ukraine and Belarus. This was demonstrated by a 1990 meteorological report. Over 30 years, there has been a persistent higher incidence of PTC among Belgian children below the age of 15 years at the time of the Chernobyl accident. This relationship with age has even been strengthened by the implementation of more sophisticated immunohistochemical biomarkers diagnostic technology since April 2011.

Medical supply on contingency military operations: experience from Operation GRITROCK.

PubMed

Robinson, J P; Reeves, P

2015-01-01

Medical supply during military operations has the ability to affect the efficacy of the operation being undertaken, either negatively or positively. An appropriately-managed maritime platform with a robust medical supply chain during transit and on arrival in theatre is the main aim. A secure supply chain will reduce any implications that logistics may have with regard to capability, and negate the effects of deficiencies of short shelf life items occurring over time and during use in high tempo operations.

Final year students' experiences of the Bachelor of Midwifery course.

PubMed

Carolan-Olah, Mary; Kruger, Gina; Walter, Ruby; Mazzarino, Melissa

2014-05-01

: the aim of the study was to explore the experiences of final year Bachelor of Midwifery students. earlier research indicates that midwifery students experience a number of difficulties and concerns during their studentship. These difficulties can lead to a lack of confidence and poorer integration and socialisation into the profession. Ultimately, poorer integration may lead to dissatisfaction and attrition from the profession. a qualitative approach, informed by interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA), was used in this study. Ten completing Bachelor of Midwifery students participated in in-depth interviews and reflected on their experiences over their three year course. Data were subjected to IPA analytic steps as proposed by Smith and Osborn (2008). demographics revealed that participants were generally aged more than 35 years and worked 16 hours or less per week. Most had two or more children and lived with a spouse/partner. Four main themes emerged from the analysis: (1) a challenging start; (2) coming to terms with course requirements; (3) developing strategies; and (4) overall satisfaction with the course. Participants generally considered that their individual strengths and determination helped them to negotiate the many challenges they encountered during the course. this study indicates that students undergo a process of adjustment as they travel through the Bachelor of Midwifery course. The most critical transition phase appears to occur in the first year and students may require additional supports to assist their socialisation into both the university and their course. Particular needs identified include return to study skills for mature-aged students and counselling and support group needs generally. The provision of such supports may assist with the retention of students within the course and may contribute to overall student satisfaction. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

First-year Analysis of the Operating Room Black Box Study.

PubMed

Jung, James J; Jüni, Peter; Lebovic, Gerald; Grantcharov, Teodor

2018-06-18

To characterize intraoperative errors, events, and distractions, and measure technical skills of surgeons in minimally invasive surgery practice. Adverse events in the operating room (OR) are common contributors of morbidity and mortality in surgical patients. Adverse events often occur due to deviations in performance and environmental factors. Although comprehensive intraoperative data analysis and transparent disclosure have been advocated to better understand how to improve surgical safety, they have rarely been done. We conducted a prospective cohort study in 132 consecutive patients undergoing elective laparoscopic general surgery at an academic hospital during the first year after the definite implementation of a multiport data capture system called the OR Black Box to identify intraoperative errors, events, and distractions. Expert analysts characterized intraoperative distractions, errors, and events, and measured trainee involvement as main operator. Technical skills were compared, crude and risk-adjusted, among the attending surgeon and trainees. Auditory distractions occurred a median of 138 times per case [interquartile range (IQR) 96-190]. At least 1 cognitive distraction appeared in 84 cases (64%). Medians of 20 errors (IQR 14-36) and 8 events (IQR 4-12) were identified per case. Both errors and events occurred often in dissection and reconstruction phases of operation. Technical skills of residents were lower than those of the attending surgeon (P = 0.015). During elective laparoscopic operations, frequent intraoperative errors and events, variation in surgeons' technical skills, and a high amount of environmental distractions were identified using the OR Black Box.

Fulfilling the Promise of the Community College: Increasing First-Year Student Engagement and Success. The First-Year Experience Monograph Series Number 56

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brown, Thomas, Ed.; King, Margaret C., Ed.; Stanley, Patricia, Ed.

2011-01-01

For the past three decades, American higher education has paid increasing attention to the beginning college experience--to ensuring that entering students make a successful transition to college. Yet, much of the extant research and practice literature focuses on the experience of first-year students entering four-year colleges and universities.…

[Hepatic surgery: 10 year experience at the Salvador Zubirán National Institute of Nutrition].

PubMed

Orozco Zepeda, H; Mercado Díaz, M A; Takahashi Monroy, T; Prado Orozco, E; Chan Núñez, C

1992-01-01

Techniques for surgical liver resections have improved in the last years. The results obtained with liver resections in 67 patients with benign and malignant tumors in a referral hospital for liver diseases in Mexico are analyzed retrospectively, with the aim of knowing the results obtained with such problems in our country. For benign diseases we operated on 36 patients with mean age of 45 years (26 were women), we had one operative death. In 31 patients with operations for malignant tumors (16 were primary liver tumors), the mean age was 52 years and 17 were men; there were eight operative deaths. Major hepatic resections are justified, the results are very satisfactory in benign disease; a major proportion of complications have to be accepted in patients with malignant disease; however, the results are good if we realize that those patients will die in few months if the tumor is not removed.

Permitting of Landfill Bioreactor Operations: Ten Years after ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Prior to promulgation of the Rule, there were approximately 20 full-scale bioreactor projects in North America, including one in Canada. Of these, six were permitted by EPA (four Project XL sites and two projects listed separately under a cooperative research agreement at the Outer Loop Landfill in Kentucky). In March 2014, there were about 40 bioreactor projects reported, including 30 active RD&D projects in 11 approved states and one project on tribal lands. Wisconsin features the largest number of projects at 13, due primarily to the fact that landfill owners in the state must either eliminate landfill disposal of biodegradable materials or to achieve the complete stabilization of deposited organic waste at MSW landfills within 40 years after closure. Most landfill operators have selected a bioreactor approach to attempt to achieve the latter goal. In summary, only 16 of 50 (32%) states have currently adopted the Rule, meaning that development of RD&D permitting procedures that are consistent with EPA’s requirements has generally not occurred. The predominant single reason cited for not adopting the Rule was lack of interest amongst landfill facilities in the state. Subtitle D and its state derivatives already allow leachate recirculation over prescriptive (i.e., minimum technology) liner systems, which is often the primary goal of site operators seeking to control leachate treatment costs. Other reasons related to concerns over increased time, cost

Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES)-8 mission flight experience

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Noonan, C. H.; Mcintosh, R. J.; Rowe, J. N.; Defazio, R. L.; Galal, K. F.

1995-01-01

The Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES)-8 spacecraft was launched on April 13, 1994, at 06:04:02 coordinated universal time (UTC), with separation from the Atlas-Centaur launch vehicle occurring at 06:33:05 UTC. The launch was followed by a series of complex, intense operations to maneuver the spacecraft into its geosynchronous mission orbit. The Flight Dynamics Facility (FDF) of the Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) Flight Dynamics Division (FDD) was responsible for GOES-8 attitude, orbit maneuver, orbit determination, and station acquisition support during the ascent phase. This paper summarizes the efforts of the FDF support teams and highlights some of the unique challenges the launch team faced during critical GOES-8 mission support. FDF operations experience discussed includes: (1) The abort of apogee maneuver firing-1 (AMF-1), cancellation of AMF-3, and the subsequent replans of the maneuver profile; (2) The unexpectedly large temperature dependence of the digital integrating rate assembly (DIRA) and its effect on GOES-8 attitude targeting in support of perigee raising maneuvers; (3) The significant effect of attitude control thrusting on GOES-8 orbit determination solutions; (4) Adjustment of the trim tab to minimize torque due to solar radiation pressure; and (5) Postlaunch analysis performed to estimate the GOES-8 separation attitude. The paper also discusses some key FDF GOES-8 lessons learned to be considered for the GOES-J launch which is currently scheduled for May 19, 1995.

Skylab Medical Experiments Altitude Test /SMEAT/ facility design and operation.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hinners, A. H., Jr.; Correale, J. V.

1973-01-01

This paper presents the design approaches and test facility operation methods used to successfully accomplish a 56-day test for Skylab to permit evaluation of selected Skylab medical experiments in a ground test simulation of the Skylab environment with an astronaut crew. The systems designed for this test include the two-gas environmental control system, the fire suppression and detection system, equipment transfer lock, ground support equipment, safety systems, potable water system, waste management system, lighting and power system, television monitoring, communications and recreation systems, and food freezer.

Sixteen Years of Terra MODIS On-Orbit Operation, Calibration, and Performance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Xiong, X.; Angal, A.; Wu, A.; Link, D.; Geng, X.; Barnes, W.; Solomonson, V.

2016-01-01

Terra MODIS has successfully operated for more than 16 years since its launch in December 1999. From its observations, many science data products have been generated in support of a broad range of research activities and remote sensing applications. Terra MODIS has operated in a number of configurations and experienced a few anomalies, including spacecraft and instrument related events. MODIS collects data in 36 spectral bands that are calibrated regularly by a set of on-board calibrators for their radiometric, spectral, and spatial performance. Periodic lunar observations and long-term radiometric trending over well-characterized ground targets are also used to support sensor on-orbit calibration. Dedicated efforts made by the MODIS Characterization Support Team (MCST) and continuing support from the MODIS Science Team have contributed to the mission success, enabling well-calibrated data products to be continuously generated and routinely delivered to users worldwide. This paper presents an overview of Terra MODIS mission operations, calibration activities, and instrument performance of the past 16 years. It illustrates and describes the results of key sensor performance parameters derived from on-orbit calibration and characterization, such as signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), noise equivalent temperature difference (NEdT), solar diffuser (SD) degradation, changes in sensor responses, center wavelengths, and band-to-band registration (BBR). Also discussed in this paper are the calibration approaches and strategies developed and implemented in support of MODIS Level 1B data production and re-processing, major challenging issues, and lessons learned. (2016) COPYRIGHT Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers (SPIE). Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.

First Year Experiences of Low-Income Students at a Public Flagship University

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ramsey, James Louis

2013-01-01

In order to improve the academic and cultural transition of low income, disadvantaged, first-generation, and working-class students at a public flagship institution, the purpose of this qualitative study is to listen as these students, with increasingly diverse background experiences, narrate their first-year experiences, including the summer…

Surgical repair of supravalvular aortic stenosis in children with williams syndrome: a 30-year experience.

PubMed

Fricke, Tyson A; d'Udekem, Yves; Brizard, Christian P; Wheaton, Gavin; Weintraub, Robert G; Konstantinov, Igor E

2015-04-01

Williams syndrome is an uncommon genetic disorder associated with supravalvular aortic stenosis (SVAS) in childhood. We reviewed outcomes of children with Williams syndrome who underwent repair of SVAS during a 30-year period at a single institution. Between 1982 and 2012, 28 patients with Williams syndrome were operated on for SVAS. Mean age at operation was 5.2 years (range, 3 months to 13 years), and mean weight at operation was 18.6 kg (range, 4.1 to 72.4 kg). Associated cardiac lesions in 11 patients (39.3%) were repaired at the time of the SVAS repair. The most common associated cardiac lesion was main pulmonary artery stenosis (8 of 28 [28%]). A 3-patch repair was performed in 10 patients, a Doty repair in 17, and a McGoon repair in 1 (3.6%). There were no early deaths. Follow-up was 96% complete (27 of 28). Overall mean follow-up was 11.2 years (range, 1 month to 27.3 years). Mean follow-up was 5 years (range, 1 month to 14.3 years) for the 3-patch repair patients and 14.7 years (range, 6 weeks to 27 years) for the Doty repair patients. Of the 17 Doty patients, there were 4 (24%) late deaths, occurring at 6 weeks, 3.5 years, 4 years, and 16 years after the initial operation. There were no late deaths in the 3-patch repair patients. Overall survival was 86% at 5, 10, and 15 years after repair. Survival was 82% at 5, 10 and 15 years for the Doty repair patients. Overall, 6 of 27 patients (22%) patients required late reoperation at a mean of 11.2 years (range, 3.6 to 23 years). No 3-patch repair patients required reoperation. Overall freedom from reoperation was 91% at 5 years and 73% at 10 and 15 years. Freedom from reoperation for the Doty repair patients was 93% at 5 years and 71% at 10 and 15 years. Surgical repair of SVAS in children Williams syndrome has excellent early results. However, significant late mortality and morbidity warrants close follow-up. Copyright © 2015 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights

The Deep Impact Network Experiment Operations Center Monitor and Control System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, Shin-Ywan (Cindy); Torgerson, J. Leigh; Schoolcraft, Joshua; Brenman, Yan

2009-01-01

The Interplanetary Overlay Network (ION) software at JPL is an implementation of Delay/Disruption Tolerant Networking (DTN) which has been proposed as an interplanetary protocol to support space communication. The JPL Deep Impact Network (DINET) is a technology development experiment intended to increase the technical readiness of the JPL implemented ION suite. The DINET Experiment Operations Center (EOC) developed by JPL's Protocol Technology Lab (PTL) was critical in accomplishing the experiment. EOC, containing all end nodes of simulated spaces and one administrative node, exercised publish and subscribe functions for payload data among all end nodes to verify the effectiveness of data exchange over ION protocol stacks. A Monitor and Control System was created and installed on the administrative node as a multi-tiered internet-based Web application to support the Deep Impact Network Experiment by allowing monitoring and analysis of the data delivery and statistics from ION. This Monitor and Control System includes the capability of receiving protocol status messages, classifying and storing status messages into a database from the ION simulation network, and providing web interfaces for viewing the live results in addition to interactive database queries.

Twenty-year experience with laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair in infants and children: considerations and results on 1833 hernia repairs.

PubMed

Esposito, Ciro; Escolino, Maria; Cortese, Giuseppe; Aprea, Gianfranco; Turrà, Francesco; Farina, Alessandra; Roberti, Agnese; Cerulo, Mariapina; Settimi, Alessandro

2017-03-01

The role of laparoscopy in pediatric inguinal hernia (IH) is still controversial. The authors reported their twenty-year experience in laparoscopic IH repair in children. In a twenty-year period (1995-2015), we operated 1300 infants and children (935 boys-365 girls) with IH using laparoscopy. The average age at surgery was 18 months (range 7 days-14 years). Body weight ranged between 1.9 and 50 kg (average 9.3). Preoperatively all patients presented a monolateral IH, right-sided in 781 cases (60.1 %) and left-sided in 519 (39.9 %). We excluded patients with bilateral IH and unstable patients in which laparoscopy was contraindicated. If the inguinal orifice diameter was ≥10 mm, we performed a modified purse string suture on peri-orificial peritoneum, in orifices ≤5 mm, we performed a N-shaped suture. No conversion to open surgery was reported. In 533 cases (41 %), we found a contralateral patency of internal inguinal ring that was always closed in laparoscopy. In 1273 cases (97.9 %), we found an oblique external hernia; in 21 cases (1.6 %), a direct hernia; and in 6 cases (0.5 %), a double hernia on the same side (hernia en pantaloon). We found an incarcerated hernia in 27 patients (2 %). Average operative time was 18 min (range 7-65). We recorded 5/1300 recurrences (0.3 %), but in the last 950 patients, we had no recurrence (0 %). We recorded 20 complications (1.5 %): 18 umbilical granulomas and two trocars scar infections, treated in outpatient setting. On the basis of our twenty-year experience, we prefer to perform IH repair in children using laparoscopy rather than inguinal approach. Laparoscopy is as fast as inguinal approach, and it has the advantage to treat during the same anesthesia a contralateral patency occured in about 40 % of our cases and to treat also rare hernias in about 3 % of cases.

10 years' experience with regular haemodialysis and renal transplantation.

PubMed Central

Chantler, C; Carter, J E; Bewick, M; Counahan, R; Cameron, J S; Ogg, C S; Williams, D G; Winder, E

1980-01-01

75 children aged under 15 years have entered the regular haemodialysis/renal transplant programme at Guy's Hospital in the 10 years since its inception; 13 children have subsequently died. A combination of hospital and home haemodialysis and renal transplantation was used. 64 children received 80 renal allografts; 37 1st grafts were from live, related donors and 27 were from cadaver donors. The 5-year acturial patient survival for the whole group and for those who had transplants was 76%. Live donor graft survival was 65% at 3 years, and 55% at 5 years; 1st cadaver graft survival was 42% at 3 years. Results obtained during the last 6 years of the 10-year period showed an improvement with a live related donor graft survival rate of 71%, and a 1st cadaver graft survival rate of 47% at 3 years. Particular experience was gained with home haemodialysis and live, related donor transplantation. Despite growth, and psychosocial and rehabilitation problems, the overall results were encouraging, particularly for the 46 children who had successful transplants. These children grew better, had fewer psychosocial difficulties, and were rehabilitated more successfully into normal life than those on long-term dialysis. We conclude that dialysis and transplantation should be offered to all suitable children with terminal renal failure. PMID:7002057

Mental Workload and Performance Experiment (MWPE) Team in the Spacelab Payload Operations Control

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1992-01-01

The primary payload for Space Shuttle Mission STS-42, launched January 22, 1992, was the International Microgravity Laboratory-1 (IML-1), a pressurized manned Spacelab module. The goal of IML-1 was to explore in depth the complex effects of weightlessness of living organisms and materials processing. Around-the-clock research was performed on the human nervous system's adaptation to low gravity and effects of microgravity on other life forms such as shrimp eggs, lentil seedlings, fruit fly eggs, and bacteria. Materials processing experiments were also conducted, including crystal growth from a variety of substances such as enzymes, mercury iodide, and a virus. The Huntsville Operations Support Center (HOSC) Spacelab Payload Operations Control Center (SL POCC) at the Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) was the air/ground communication channel used between the astronauts and ground control teams during the Spacelab missions. Featured is the Mental Workload and Performance Experiment (MWPE) team in the SL POCC) during STS-42, IML-1 mission.

Mental Workload and Performance Experiment (MWPE) Team in the Spacelab Payload Operations Control

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1992-01-01

The primary payload for Space Shuttle Mission STS-42, launched January 22, 1992, was the International Microgravity Laboratory-1 (IML-1), a pressurized manned Spacelab module. The goal of IML-1 was to explore in depth the complex effects of weightlessness of living organisms and materials processing. Around-the-clock research was performed on the human nervous system's adaptation to low gravity and effects of microgravity on other life forms such as shrimp eggs, lentil seedlings, fruit fly eggs, and bacteria. Materials processing experiments were also conducted, including crystal growth from a variety of substances such as enzymes, mercury iodide, and a virus. The Huntsville Operations Support Center (HOSC) Spacelab Payload Operations Control Center (SL POCC) at the Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) was the air/ground communication channel used between the astronauts and ground control teams during the Spacelab missions. Featured activities are of the Mental Workload and Performance Experiment (MWPE) team in the SL POCC during the IML-1 mission.

Spinal cord glioblastoma: 25years of experience from a single institution.

PubMed

Yanamadala, Vijay; Koffie, Robert M; Shankar, Ganesh M; Kumar, Jay I; Buchlak, Quinlan D; Puthenpura, Vidya; Frosch, Matthew P; Gudewicz, Thomas M; Borges, Lawrence F; Shin, John H

2016-05-01

Accounting for less than 0.2% of all glioblastomas, high grade gliomas of the spinal cord are very rare. Here, we discuss our approach to managing patients with high grade spinal cord glioma and review the literature on the subject. Six patients with high grade spinal cord gliomas who presented to our institution between 1990 and 2015 were reviewed. Each patient underwent subtotal surgical resection, with a subset receiving adjuvant chemotherapy and radiation. Our primary outcomes of interest were pre-operative and post-operative functional status. One year survival rate was 100%. All patients had stable or improved American Spine Injury Association score immediately after surgery, which was maintained at 3months in 83.3% of patients. Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS) was stable at 3month follow up in 50% of patients, but all had decreased KPS 1year after surgery. A subset of patients received post-operative radiation and chemotherapy with 0% tumor recurrence rate at 3months. We assessed the molecular profiles of tumors from two patients in our series and found that each had mutations in TP53, but had wildtype BRAF, IDH-1, and MGMT. Taken together, our data show that patients with high grade spinal cord gliomas have an excellent survival at 1year, but with some decline in functional status within this period. Further studies are needed to elucidate the natural history of the disease and to explore the role of adjuvant targeted molecular therapies. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Sacral neurostimulation for urinary retention: 10-year experience from one UK centre.

PubMed

Datta, Soumendra N; Chaliha, Charlotte; Singh, Anubha; Gonzales, Gwen; Mishra, Vibhash C; Kavia, Rajesh B C; Kitchen, Neil; Fowler, Clare J; Elneil, Sohier

2008-01-01

To report our 10-year experience of sacral neurostimulation (SNS) for women in urinary retention, comparing the original one-stage with the newer two-stage technique, as SNS therapy is a well-established treatment for urinary retention secondary to urethral sphincter overactivity (Fowler's syndrome). Between 1996 and 2006, 60 patients with urinary retention had a SNS device inserted; their case records were reviewed and data on efficacy, follow-up, need for continued clean intermittent self-catheterization (CISC), complications and operative revision rate were assessed. Overall, 43 of 60 (72%) women were voiding spontaneously, with a mean postvoid residual volume of 100 mL; 30 (50%) no longer needed to use CISC. During a total of 2878 months of SNS experience, adverse event episodes included lead migration in 20, 'box-site' pain in 19, leg pain/numbness in 18 and loss of response/failure in 18 patients; 53% of the women required a surgical revision related to their implanted stimulator. The efficacy of the two-stage was similar to that of the one-stage procedure (73% vs 70%). Women with a normal urethral sphincter electromyogram had worse outcomes than women with an abnormal test (43% vs 76%). Although the efficacy was no different in those taking analgesia/antidepressant medication, this group of women had a higher surgical revision rate. Failure and complications for the one-stage procedure were not restricted to the early follow-up period. The mean battery life of the implant was 7.31 years. SNS has sustained long-term efficacy but the procedure has a significant complication rate. At present, the two-stage technique has comparable efficacy to the one-stage technique but a longer-term follow-up is required. The National Institute of Clinical Excellence recommended the use of SNS in women with urinary incontinence who fail to respond adequately to anticholinergic therapy, but patients choosing this treatment should be made aware of the high complication rate

Improving INPE'S balloon ground facilities for operation of the protoMIRAX experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mattiello-Francisco, F.; Rinke, E.; Fernandes, J. O.; Cardoso, L.; Cardoso, P.; Braga, J.

2014-10-01

The system requirements for reusing the scientific balloon ground facilities available at INPE were a challenge to the ground system engineers involved in the protoMIRAX X-ray astronomy experiment. A significant effort on software updating was required for the balloon ground station. Considering that protoMIRAX is a pathfinder for the MIRAX satellite mission, a ground infrastructure compatible with INPE's satellite operation approach would be useful and highly recommended to control and monitor the experiment during the balloon flights. This approach will make use of the SATellite Control System (SATCS), a software-based architecture developed at INPE for satellite commanding and monitoring. SATCS complies with particular operational requirements of different satellites by using several customized object-oriented software elements and frameworks. We present the ground solution designed for protoMIRAX operation, the Control and Reception System (CRS). A new server computer, properly configured with Ethernet, has extended the existing ground station facilities with switch, converters and new software (OPS/SERVER) in order to support the available uplink and downlink channels being mapped to TCP/IP gateways required by SATCS. Currently, the CRS development is customizing the SATCS for the kernel functions of protoMIRAX command and telemetry processing. Design-patterns, component-based libraries and metadata are widely used in the SATCS in order to extend the frameworks to address the Packet Utilization Standard (PUS) for ground-balloon communication, in compliance with the services provided by the data handling computer onboard the protoMIRAX balloon.

Experience in operating earth dams of the NIVA cascade of the Kola Regional Power administration constructed in 1930-1960

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Nosova, O.N.; Margolina, O.G.; Sergeeva, N.S.

1995-08-01

This article discusses Russian experiences in monitoring earth-filled dams of the Niva region. These are low and medium head facilities in operation from 30 to 60 years. As shown by the experiences of long-term operation of earth structures in this area and on embankments being constructed by the method of dumping soil into water, it is necessary to impose more stringent requirements with respect to determining the steepness of these slopes to increase their stability, as is done when the structures are constructed dry. To organize successful monitoring of seepage processes in the investigated structures having substantial anisotropy of themore » soil, special recommendations of the disposition of piezometers under such specific conditions should be worked out. Recommendations on the disposition of piezometers under conditions of a noticeable effect of the groundwater regime of the surrounding territory on the seepage regime of the hydro development should be worked out accordingly. Since the calculations made in the work, as a result of which instability of many slopes was detected, are not always confirmed by practice, it is advisable to correct the method of such calculations with consideration of the characteristics of the formation of the seepage flow in the downstream shoulder of dams with pronounced anisotropy of the soil.« less

Cardiovascular operations for Loeys-Dietz syndrome: Intermediate-term results.

PubMed

Patel, Nishant D; Crawford, Todd; Magruder, J Trent; Alejo, Diane E; Hibino, Narutoshi; Black, James; Dietz, Harry C; Vricella, Luca A; Cameron, Duke E

2017-02-01

Early experience with Loeys-Dietz syndrome (LDS) suggested an aggressive aortopathy with high risk of aneurysm dissection and rupture at young ages and at smaller aortic diameters than in other connective tissue disorders. We reviewed our experience with LDS to re-examine our indications and outcomes of surgical management. We reviewed all patients with a diagnosis of LDS who underwent cardiovascular surgery at our institution. The primary endpoint was mortality, and secondary endpoints included postoperative complications and need for reintervention. Seventy-nine operated patients with LDS were identified. Mean age at first operation was 25 years, 39 (49%) were female, and 38 (48%) were children (age <18 years). Six (8%) patients presented with acute dissection. Five (6%) patients had a bicuspid aortic valve, and all presented with an ascending aortic aneurysm with a mean root diameter of 3.5cm. Twenty (25%) patients had a previous sternotomy. Sixty-five (82%) patients underwent aortic root replacement, of whom 52 underwent a valve-sparing operation and 4 had concomitant arch replacement. Mean aortic root diameter in this group was 4.2 cm. Nine (11%) patients underwent aortic arch replacement, 2 (3%) had isolated ascending aorta replacement, and 3 (4%) underwent open thoracoabdominal repair. There were 2 (3%) operative and 8 late deaths. Nineteen patients underwent subsequent operations for late aneurysm and/or dissection. Mean follow-up was 6 years (range 0-24 years). Kaplan-Meier survival was 88% at 10 years. Growing experience with LDS has confirmed early impressions of its aggressive nature and proclivity toward aortic catastrophe. Surgical outcomes are favorable, but reintervention rates are high. Meticulous follow-up with cardiovascular surveillance imaging remain important for management, particularly as clinical LDS subtypes are characterized and more tailored treatment is developed. Copyright © 2016 The American Association for Thoracic Surgery

Operating experiences with electrolytes containing lithium fluoride

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wendt, Günther

1971-12-01

Additions of lithium salts to the cryolite bath of horizontal stud Soederberg cells have been tested for the last 10 years, at first with some pilot cells and then with full potlines of 35 and 40 kamp cells. Under special conditions, economic benefits result. Voltage, power, anode paste, and fluorine electrolyte consumptions are lower; current efficiency is increased. On the other hand, more attention is necessary in pot operations because the alumina solubility is reduced. The addition of a readily soluble alumina is advantageous. The LiF-content in the electrolyte seems to be limited according to type of pot to 2 to 5 pct. Type and method of adding the lithium salts affect the consumption of lithium salts. The influence of supplementary additions, as CaF2, KF, MgF2, and NaCl, will be discussed.

MSFC Doppler Lidar Science experiments and operations plans for 1981 airborne test flight

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fichtl, G. H.; Bilbro, J. W.; Kaufman, J. W.

1981-01-01

The flight experiment and operations plans for the Doppler Lidar System (DLS) are provided. Application of DLS to the study of severe storms and local weather penomena is addressed. Test plans involve 66 hours of flight time. Plans also include ground based severe storm and local weather data acquisition.

The operative treatment of pressure sores in the pelvic region: A 10-year period overview

PubMed Central

Jósvay, János; Klauber, András; Both, Béla; Kelemen, Péter B.; Varga, Zsombor Z.; Pesthy, Pál Cs.

2015-01-01

Context Pelvic region pressure sores often develop following spinal cord injury. Surgery is often necessary for long standing, large-sized pressure sores not responding to conservative treatment. Authors analyze their results of a 10-year period, and identify factors contributing to the reduction of the recurrence rate. Methods A total of 119 pressure sores were operated on 98 patients in two institutions during a 10-year period (1 January 2003 to 31 December 2012). The encountered perioperative complications are summarized, and the recurrence rate is analyzed with a patient follow-up questionnaire. Results We experienced 15 perioperative complications (12.6%). All complications were fully resolved by conservative treatment. Fifty-eight returned patient replies were processed. The average follow-up time after surgery was 5.2 years. The recurrence rate was 5.47%. Conclusion The strict adherence to surgical indications, full patient compliance, specialized pre- and post-operative patient care, our routinely used preferred surgical method, all contribute to a low post-operative complication rate, long-term flap survival, and an extended recurrence free period. PMID:25299238

The operative treatment of pressure sores in the pelvic region: A 10-year period overview.

PubMed

Jósvay, János; Klauber, András; Both, Béla; Kelemen, Péter B; Varga, Zsombor Z; Pesthy, Pál Cs

2015-07-01

Pelvic region pressure sores often develop following spinal cord injury. Surgery is often necessary for long standing, large-sized pressure sores not responding to conservative treatment. Authors analyze their results of a 10-year period, and identify factors contributing to the reduction of the recurrence rate. A total of 119 pressure sores were operated on 98 patients in two institutions during a 10-year period (1 January 2003 to 31 December 2012). The encountered perioperative complications are summarized, and the recurrence rate is analyzed with a patient follow-up questionnaire. We experienced 15 perioperative complications (12.6%). All complications were fully resolved by conservative treatment. Fifty-eight returned patient replies were processed. The average follow-up time after surgery was 5.2 years. The recurrence rate was 5.47%. The strict adherence to surgical indications, full patient compliance, specialized pre- and post-operative patient care, our routinely used preferred surgical method, all contribute to a low post-operative complication rate, long-term flap survival, and an extended recurrence free period.

Women's experiences of social support during the first year following primary breast cancer surgery.

PubMed

Drageset, Sigrunn; Lindstrøm, Torill Christine; Giske, Tove; Underlid, Kjell

2016-06-01

The aim of this qualitative follow-up study was to describe women's individual experiences of social support during their first year after primary breast cancer surgery. Individual semi-structured interviews with 10 women 1 year after surgery analysed by Kvales' meaning condensation method. Sharing experiences, being understood as an individual, continuity, and information and explanations were themes identified. Sharing mutual experiences increased the women's knowledge regarding cancer, increased experience of support and minimised rumination. After 1 year, the women felt that the network around them had 'normalised' and was less supportive. Being seen as a person, not as 'a diagnosis being treated', and continuity of professional support were important, giving feelings of security and trust. The women felt uncertainty after loss of professional support post-treatment. Information and explanations regarding treatment and treatment-related problems were essential. Mutual sharing of experiences is an important part of social support. Continuity, availability, information and respect were essential aspects of experienced professional support. © 2015 Nordic College of Caring Science.

Influence of operator experience on canal preparation time when using the rotary Ni-Ti ProFile system in simulated curved canals.

PubMed

Mesgouez, C; Rilliard, F; Matossian, L; Nassiri, K; Mandel, E

2003-03-01

The aim of this study was to determine the influence of operator experience on the time needed for canal preparation when using a rotary nickel-titanium (Ni-Ti) system. A total of 100 simulated curved canals in resin blocks were used. Four operators prepared a total of 25 canals each. The operators included practitioners with prior experience of the preparation technique, and practitioners with no experience. The working length for each instrument was precisely predetermined. All canals were instrumented with rotary Ni-Ti ProFile Variable Taper Series 29 engine-driven instruments using a high-torque handpiece (Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland). The time taken to prepare each canal was recorded. Significant differences between the operators were analysed using the Student's t-test and the Kruskall-Wallis and Dunn nonparametric tests. Comparison of canal preparation times demonstrated a statistically significant difference between the four operators (P < 0.001). In the inexperienced group, a significant linear regression between canal number and preparation time occurred. Time required for canal preparation was inversely related to operator experience.

[Extracorporeal circulation and hypothermy surgery in tumors with vena cava extension: 20 years experience at the University Clinic of Navarra].

PubMed

Rioja Zuazu, J; Rodríguez-Rubio Cortadillas, F; Zudaire Bergera, J J; Saiz Sansi, A; Rosell Costa, D; Robles García, J E; Rábago, G; Berián Polo, J M

2008-04-01

We present our 20 years experience treating patients with vena cava extension in whom an extracorporeal circulation, hypothermia, cardio circulatory arrest (ECC-H-CCA) in order to perform, together with a tumoral resection, a thrombus resection. From 1985 to 2005 a total of 28 retroperitoneal tumor were treated: 25 renal cancers, a Wilms tumor, a paratesticular rabdomiosarcoma, and a pheocromocitoma. All of them had an extension by means of thrombus above the suprahepatics veins. All of them were treated by means of ECC-H-CCA for thrombus extraction. A descriptive study of the serie is performed as well as a Kaplan Meyer survival study. Surgical complications were present within 10 patients (35%), with a surgical mortality of two patients (7%): one intra-operatively because a massive embolism of the lungs and the other because of a lung embolism on the 4th post-operative day. Global actuarial survival was 29.1+/-10% at three years and 17.5+/-8% at five years. Analyzing only who do not have metastatic lesions, nor lymph nodes at diagnosis their three year survival was 50.9+/-16.3% and 32.2+/-16% at five years. Mean while those who have any metastatic lesion at diagnosis their three and five years survival was 20.8+/-12% and 10.4+/-9% respectively. The employ of surgical techniques with ECC-H-CCA with in oncological pathology associated with vena cava thrombus is justified and its employment does not worsen the survival; it is indicated because its results, allowing a complete tumoral resection in a safe and reproducible fashion.

Comfort and experience with online learning: trends over nine years and associations with knowledge

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Some evidence suggests that attitude toward computer-based instruction is an important determinant of success in online learning. We sought to determine how comfort using computers and perceptions of prior online learning experiences have changed over the past decade, and how these associate with learning outcomes. Methods Each year from 2003–2011 we conducted a prospective trial of online learning. As part of each year’s study, we asked medicine residents about their comfort using computers and if their previous experiences with online learning were favorable. We assessed knowledge using a multiple-choice test. We used regression to analyze associations and changes over time. Results 371 internal medicine and family medicine residents participated. Neither comfort with computers nor perceptions of prior online learning experiences showed a significant change across years (p > 0.61), with mean comfort rating 3.96 (maximum 5 = very comfortable) and mean experience rating 4.42 (maximum 6 = strongly agree [favorable]). Comfort showed no significant association with knowledge scores (p = 0.39) but perceptions of prior experiences did, with a 1.56% rise in knowledge score for a 1-point rise in experience score (p = 0.02). Correlations among comfort, perceptions of prior experiences, and number of prior experiences were all small and not statistically significant. Conclusions Comfort with computers and perceptions of prior experience with online learning remained stable over nine years. Prior good experiences (but not comfort with computers) demonstrated a modest association with knowledge outcomes, suggesting that prior course satisfaction may influence subsequent learning. PMID:24985690

Pilot interaction with cockpit automation - Operational experiences with the Flight Management System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sarter, Nadine B.; Woods, David D.

1992-01-01

Results are presented of two studies on the potential effect of cockpit automation on the pilot's performance, which provide data on pilots' difficulties with understanding and operating one of the core systems of cockpit automation, the Flight Management System (FMS). The results of both studies indicate that, although pilots do become proficient in standard FMS operations through ground training and subsequent flight experience, they still have difficulties tracking the FMS status and behavior in certain flight contexts and show gaps in the understanding of the functional structure of the system. The results suggest that design-related factors such as opaque interfaces contribute to these difficulties, which can affect the pilot's situation awareness.

School Experiences of 15 and 16 Year-Olds. LSAY Briefing Number 16

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Underwood, Catherine; Rothman, Sheldon

2008-01-01

This "Briefing" provides a summary of students' experiences at school and their attitudes and perceptions of these experiences at ages 15 and 16. It is based on information obtained in both years from these young people who participated in Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) in 2003 and are now part of the Longitudinal…

Iatrogenic Peripheral Nerve Injuries-Surgical Treatment and Outcome: 10 Years' Experience.

PubMed

Rasulić, Lukas; Savić, Andrija; Vitošević, Filip; Samardžić, Miroslav; Živković, Bojana; Mićović, Mirko; Baščarević, Vladimir; Puzović, Vladimir; Joksimović, Boban; Novakovic, Nenad; Lepić, Milan; Mandić-Rajčević, Stefan

2017-07-01

Iatrogenic nerve injuries are nerve injuries caused by medical interventions or inflicted accidentally by a treating physician. We describe and analyze iatrogenic nerve injuries in a total of 122 consecutive patients who received surgical treatment at our Institution during a period of 10 years, from January 1, 2003, to December 31, 2013. The final outcome evaluation was performed 2 years after surgical treatment. The most common causes of iatrogenic nerve injuries among patients in the study were the operations of bone fractures (23.9%), lymph node biopsy (19.7%), and carpal tunnel release (18%). The most affected nerves were median nerve (21.3%), accessory nerve (18%), radial nerve (15.6%), and peroneal nerve (11.5%). In 74 (60.7%) patients, surgery was performed 6 months after the injury, and in 48 (39.3%) surgery was performed within 6 months after the injury. In 80 (65.6%) patients, we found lesion in discontinuity, and in 42 (34.4%) patients lesion in continuity. The distribution of surgical procedures performed was as follows: autotransplantation (51.6%), neurolysis (23.8%), nerve transfer (13.9%), direct suture (8.2%), and resection of neuroma (2.5%). In total, we achieved satisfactory recovery in 91 (74.6%), whereas the result was dissatisfactory in 31 (25.4%) patients. Patients with iatrogenic nerve injuries should be examined as soon as possible by experts with experience in traumatic nerve injuries, so that the correct diagnosis can be reached and the appropriate therapy planned. The timing of reconstructive surgery and the technique used are the crucial factors for functional recovery. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Fifteen Years of Service Mode Operations: Closing the Loop with the Community

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Primas, F.; Tacconi-Garman, L.; Marteau, S.; Mainieri, V.; Rejkuba, M.; Mysore, S.; Dumas, C.; Kaufer, A.; Patat, F.; Sterzik, M.

2014-12-01

The first Service Mode (SM) observations with the VLT were made by ISAAC in April 1999. Since then new instruments have become operational and first generation ones replaced, filling the 12 VLT foci and feeding the VLT Interferometer and its four Auxiliary Telescopes. Efficiently operating such a broad range of instruments, installed and available every night of each year, on four 8-metre telescopes offers many challenges. Although it may appear that little has changed since 1999, the underlying VLT operational model has evolved in order to accommodate different requirements from the user community and features of new instruments. As ESO and its Member States approach routine operations with ALMA, and at the same time prepare for the next challenge, the construction of the E-ELT, it seems timely to take a closer look at what SM has brought to the scientific arena, both in terms of science data and support. Did it fulfil its original goal, if so, how well, and what are the lessons learned? A careful analysis of statistics and trends in Phase 1 and Phase 2 are now being conducted in the DOME (Dashboard for Operational Metrics at ESO) project. We summarise the main findings, concentrating on the handling of Service Mode.

Three Years of on Orbit ISS Oxygen Generation System Operation 2007-2010

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Diderich, Greg S.; Polis, Pete; VanKeuren, Steven P.; Erickson, Bob

2010-01-01

The International Space Station (ISS) United States Orbital Segment (USOS) Oxygen Generation System (OGS) has accumulated 240 days of continuous operation at varied oxygen production rates within the US Laboratory Module (LAB) since it was first activated in July 2007. OGS relocated from the ISS LAB to Node 3 during 20A Flight (February 2010). The OGS rack delivery was accelerated for on-orbit checkout in the LAB, and it was launched to ISS in July of 2006. During the on-orbit checkout interval within the LAB from July 2007 to October 2008, OGS operational times were limited by the quantity of feedwater in a Payload Water Reservoir (PWR) bag. Longer runtimes are now achievable due to the continuous feedwater availability after ULF2 delivery and activation of the USOS Water Recovery System (WRS) racks. OGS is considered a critical function to maintaining six crew capability. There have been a number of failures which interrupted or threatened to interrupt oxygen production. Filters in the recirculation loop have clogged and have been replaced, Hydrogen sensors have fallen out of specifications, a pump delta pressure sensor failed, a pump failed to start, and the voltage on the cell stack increased out of tolerance. This paper will discuss the operating experience and characteristics of the OGS, as well as operational issues and their resolution.

(abstract) Mission Operations and Control Assurance: Flight Operations Quality Improvements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Welz, Linda L.; Bruno, Kristin J.; Kazz, Sheri L.; Witkowski, Mona M.

1993-01-01

Mission Operations and Command Assurance (MO&CA), a recent addition to flight operations teams at JPL. provides a system level function to instill quality in mission operations. MO&CA's primary goal at JPL is to help improve the operational reliability for projects during flight. MO&CA tasks include early detection and correction of process design and procedural deficiencies within projects. Early detection and correction are essential during development of operational procedures and training of operational teams. MO&CA's effort focuses directly on reducing the probability of radiating incorrect commands to a spacecraft. Over the last seven years at JPL, MO&CA has become a valuable asset to JPL flight projects. JPL flight projects have benefited significantly from MO&CA's efforts to contain risk and prevent rather than rework errors. MO&CA's ability to provide direct transfer of knowledge allows new projects to benefit directly from previous and ongoing experience. Since MO&CA, like Total Quality Management (TQM), focuses on continuous improvement of processes and elimination of rework, we recommend that this effort be continued on NASA flight projects.

A longitudinal study of women’s memories of their childbirth experiences at five years postpartum

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Few studies have investigated whether women can accurately recall their birthing experiences after a long period. We investigated the consistency of women’s memories of their childbirth experiences between those at a few days postpartum and 5 years later. Methods This prospective cohort study comprised 1,168 women who delivered at a maternity hospital and four maternity homes in Japan between May 2002 and August 2003. Data were collected using structured interviews and transcriptions from medical records. The childbirth experience was assessed using the Childbirth Experience Scale (CBE-Scale) at a few days postpartum and 5 years later. Results We obtained 584 (50.0%) valid responses from women who completed the survey at a few days postpartum and 5 years later. Significant differences were observed in 16 out of 18 items on the CBE-Scale when responses were compared at both time points. Women who answered "yes" to any item on the CBE-Scale at the baseline survey tended to demonstrate a more precise recollection for that item 5 years after childbirth than those who answered "no" for the corresponding item. Conclusions We conclude that women remember their childbirth experience clearly at 5 years after the childbirth. PMID:24996683

Astronaut operations requirements document for the White Light Coronagraph experiment s-052 for the Apollo Telescope Mount

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ross, C. L.

1973-01-01

Information necessary for successful performance of the observer's function in the White Light Coronagraph portion of the Apollo Telescope Mount experiments is presented. The pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight operations required to perform the S-052 experiment are described. A discussion of the scientific objectives of the experiment and a description of the hardware are provided.

Sequoia and Kings Canyon Sequoia Shuttle System: Evaluation of the First-Year Operations.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2008-02-28

This report presents an evaluation of the first-year start-up (system was operational mid-May to mid-September 2007) of the visitor shuttle system in the Giant Forest area of Sequoia National Park (SEKI). The visitor shuttle system design also includ...

Minimized extracorporeal circulation system in coronary artery bypass surgery: a 10-year single-center experience with 2243 patients.

PubMed

Puehler, Thomas; Haneya, Assad; Philipp, Alois; Zausig, York A; Kobuch, Reinhard; Diez, Claudius; Birnbaum, Dietrich E; Schmid, Christof

2011-04-01

Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is the gold standard for the surgical therapy of multivessel coronary artery disease. To reduce the side effects, associated with standard extracorporeal circulation (ECC), a concept of minimal extracorporeal circulation (MECC) was devised in our center. We report on our 10-year experience with the MECC for coronary revascularization. From January 1998 to August 2009, 2243 patients underwent CABG with MECC in our center. In a retrospective observational study, we analyzed indication, preoperative patient co-morbidity, postoperative clinical course, and perioperative outcome of all patients operated on with MECC. Furthermore, the risk factors for mortality in the MECC group were assessed. Patients showed a mean logistic European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation (EuroSCORE) of 4.5±0.1%. The mean age of the patients was 66.8±9.1 years. The overall 30-day mortality after CABG with MECC was 2.3%, ranging from 1.1% for elective to 13.0% for emergent patients and was significantly better than standard ECC. Only 15.3% (n=344) of patients with MECC required intra-operative blood transfusion. Postoperative catecholamine support, red blood cell transfusion, need for hemodialysis, release of creatinine kinase, incidence of stroke, and postoperative delirium were low after MECC revascularization. Ejection fraction below 30% (odds ratio (OR): 5.1), emergent operation (OR: 9.4), and high-dose catecholamine therapy (OR: 2.6) were associated predictors for mortality. MECC until now is an established concept and has become an alternative for ECC in routine CABG in our center. The use of the MECC system is associated with low mortality and conversion rate. Excellent survival rates and low transfusion requirements in the perioperative course were achieved. Copyright © 2010 European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Chronic idiopathic intestinal pseudo-obstruction treated by near total small bowel resection: a 20-year experience.

PubMed

Lapointe, Roch

2010-12-01

Patients suffering from chronic idiopathic intestinal pseudo-obstruction (CIIPO) clearly benefit from home parenteral nutrition (HPN) to maintain adequate nutritional status and general health. But intestinal dismotility can seriously disturb their quality of life (QOL) to the point of making it intolerable. Report our clinical experience on the management of chronic severe occlusive symptoms in CIIPO by near total small bowel resection. A 20-year retrospective study of eight patients with end-stage CIIPO maintained on HPN and suffering of chronic occlusive symptoms refractory to medical treatment underwent extensive small bowel resection preserving less than 70 cm of total small bowel and less than 20 cm of ileum. The jejunum was anastomosed either to the ileum or to the colon. Six patients were completely relieved from obstructive symptoms. Two patients needed a second operation to remove the residual ileum because of recurrent symptoms. Two were significantly improved. There was no post-operative death. All patients experienced a significant improvement in their QOL. Near total small bowel resection appears to be a safe and effective procedure in end-stage CIIPO patients, refractory to optimal medical treatment.

Basic research and 12 years of clinical experience in computer-assisted navigation technology: a review.

PubMed

Ewers, R; Schicho, K; Undt, G; Wanschitz, F; Truppe, M; Seemann, R; Wagner, A

2005-01-01

Computer-aided surgical navigation technology is commonly used in craniomaxillofacial surgery. It offers substantial improvement regarding esthetic and functional aspects in a range of surgical procedures. Based on augmented reality principles, where the real operative site is merged with computer generated graphic information, computer-aided navigation systems were employed, among other procedures, in dental implantology, arthroscopy of the temporomandibular joint, osteotomies, distraction osteogenesis, image guided biopsies and removals of foreign bodies. The decision to perform a procedure with or without computer-aided intraoperative navigation depends on the expected benefit to the procedure as well as on the technical expenditure necessary to achieve that goal. This paper comprises the experience gained in 12 years of research, development and routine clinical application. One hundred and fifty-eight operations with successful application of surgical navigation technology--divided into five groups--are evaluated regarding the criteria "medical benefit" and "technical expenditure" necessary to perform these procedures. Our results indicate that the medical benefit is likely to outweight the expenditure of technology with few exceptions (calvaria transplant, resection of the temporal bone, reconstruction of the orbital floor). Especially in dental implantology, specialized software reduces time and additional costs necessary to plan and perform procedures with computer-aided surgical navigation.

Bullying in elementary school and psychotic experiences at 18 years: a longitudinal, population-based cohort study.

PubMed

Wolke, D; Lereya, S T; Fisher, H L; Lewis, G; Zammit, S

2014-07-01

Victims of bullying are at risk for psychotic experiences in early adolescence. It is unclear if this elevated risk extends into late adolescence. The aim of this study was to test whether bullying perpetration and victimization in elementary school predict psychotic experiences in late adolescence. The current study is based on the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC), a prospective community-based study. A total of 4720 subjects with bullying perpetration and victimization were repeatedly assessed between the ages of 8 and 11 years by child and mother reports. Suspected or definite psychotic experiences were assessed with the Psychosis-Like Symptoms semi-structured interview at age 18 years. Controlling for child's gender, intelligence quotient at age 8 years, childhood behavioural and emotional problems, and also depression symptoms and psychotic experiences in early adolescence, victims [child report at 10 years: odds ratio (OR) 2.4, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.6-3.4; mother report: OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.1-2.3], bully/victims (child report at 10 years: OR 3.1, 95% CI 1.7-5.8; mother: OR 2.9, 95% CI 1.7-5.0) and bullies (child report at 10 years: OR 4.9, 95% CI 1.3-17.7; mother: OR 1.2, 95% CI 0.46-3.1, n.s.) had a higher prevalence of psychotic experiences at age 18 years. Path analysis revealed that the association between peer victimization in childhood and psychotic experiences at age 18 years was only partially mediated by psychotic or depression symptoms in early adolescence. Involvement in bullying, whether as victim, bully/victim or bully, may increase the risk of developing psychotic experiences in adolescence. Health professionals should ask routinely during consultations with children about their bullying of and by peers.

Multidimensional evaluation of performance with experimental application of balanced scorecard: a two year experience

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background In today's dynamic health-care system, organizations such as hospitals are required to improve their performance for multiple stakeholders and deliver an integrated care that means to work effectively, be innovative and organize efficiently. Achieved goals and levels of quality can be successfully measured by a multidimensional approach like Balanced Scorecard (BSC). The aim of the study was to verify the opportunity to introduce BSC framework to measure performance in St. Anna University Hospital of Ferrara, applying it to the Clinical Laboratory Operative Unit in order to compare over time performance results and achievements of assigned targets. Methods In the first experience with BSC we distinguished four perspectives, according to Kaplan and Norton, identified Key Performance Areas and Key Performance Indicators, set standards and weights for each objective, collected data for all indicators, recognized cause-and-effect relationships in a strategic map. One year later we proceeded with the next data collection and analysed the preservation of framework aptitude to measure Operative Unit performance. In addition, we verified the ability to underline links between strategic actions belonging to different perspectives in producing outcomes changes. Results The BSC was found to be effective for underlining existing problems and identifying opportunities for improvements. The BSC also revealed the specific perspective contribution to overall performance enhancement. After time results comparison was possible depending on the selection of feasible and appropriate key performance indicators, which was occasionally limited by data collection problems. Conclusions The first use of BSC to compare performance at Operative Unit level, in course of time, suggested this framework can be successfully adopted for results measuring and revealing effective health factors, allowing health-care quality improvements. PMID:21586111

Multidimensional evaluation of performance with experimental application of balanced scorecard: a two year experience.

PubMed

Lupi, Silvia; Verzola, Adriano; Carandina, Gianni; Salani, Manuela; Antonioli, Paola; Gregorio, Pasquale

2011-05-17

In today's dynamic health-care system, organizations such as hospitals are required to improve their performance for multiple stakeholders and deliver an integrated care that means to work effectively, be innovative and organize efficiently. Achieved goals and levels of quality can be successfully measured by a multidimensional approach like Balanced Scorecard (BSC). The aim of the study was to verify the opportunity to introduce BSC framework to measure performance in St. Anna University Hospital of Ferrara, applying it to the Clinical Laboratory Operative Unit in order to compare over time performance results and achievements of assigned targets. In the first experience with BSC we distinguished four perspectives, according to Kaplan and Norton, identified Key Performance Areas and Key Performance Indicators, set standards and weights for each objective, collected data for all indicators, recognized cause-and-effect relationships in a strategic map. One year later we proceeded with the next data collection and analysed the preservation of framework aptitude to measure Operative Unit performance. In addition, we verified the ability to underline links between strategic actions belonging to different perspectives in producing outcomes changes. The BSC was found to be effective for underlining existing problems and identifying opportunities for improvements. The BSC also revealed the specific perspective contribution to overall performance enhancement. After time results comparison was possible depending on the selection of feasible and appropriate key performance indicators, which was occasionally limited by data collection problems. The first use of BSC to compare performance at Operative Unit level, in course of time, suggested this framework can be successfully adopted for results measuring and revealing effective health factors, allowing health-care quality improvements.

Modified Eversion Carotid Endarterectomy: A 14-Year Experience in a Tertiary Teaching University Hospital in Brazil (South America).

PubMed

Menezes, Fábio Hüsemann; Pagliuso, Natália Ponzio; Molinari, Giovani José Dal Poggetto

2018-03-01

Carotid endarterectomy is one of the most performed vascular procedures. Since the first reports in the late 1950s, the conventional open and the eversion techniques are the popularized ones. A short extraction or partial eversion technique has been previously described and recently has been subjected to case series reports. The aim of the study was to present the experience of a teaching hospital with modified or partial eversion endarterectomy compared with the experience with conventional open procedure performed exclusively by training vascular surgeons. A retrospective review of a consecutive series of cases from January 2002 to June 2016 was performed. There were 355 operations. The mean age was 70 years (range, 41-90), 72.39% were males, and 53.5% were symptomatic. There were 7.3% of contralateral occlusions and 12.1% of contralateral stenosis greater than 70%. General anesthesia was employed in 56% of cases and regional blockage in the remaining cases. A selective shunt was used in 10 patients among those operated with regional blockage (6.9%; 3.1% of the total group of patients) and 1 patient (0.5%) operated with general anesthesia. There were 73 open procedures with primary closure, 23 patch closures, and 259 partial eversion procedures. The mean operation time for the primary closure, patch closure, and eversion techniques were 129.9 min (range, 75-220), 137.5 min (range, 120-160), and 109.7 min (range, 45-230), respectively, with a significant difference (P < 0.0001, Kruskal-Wallis test). The mean clamping time for the same techniques was 23.5 min (range, 13-50), 42 min (range, 20-60), and 17.1 min (range, 9-41), respectively, with a significant difference (P < 0.0001, Kruskal-Wallis test). There were 2.25% of transient ischemic events, 2.54% of cerebrovascular accidents, 1.97% of death, and a combined death/cerebrovascular accidents rate of 3.94%, with no statistical difference between the surgical techniques. The incidence of neck hematoma

Pancreaticoduodenectomy: a 20-year experience in 516 patients.

PubMed

Schmidt, C Max; Powell, Emilie S; Yiannoutsos, Constantin T; Howard, Thomas J; Wiebke, Eric A; Wiesenauer, Chad A; Baumgardner, Joel A; Cummings, Oscar W; Jacobson, Lewis E; Broadie, Thomas A; Canal, David F; Goulet, Robert J; Curie, Eardie A; Cardenes, Higinia; Watkins, John M; Loehrer, Patrick J; Lillemoe, Keith D; Madura, James A

2004-07-01

Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) is a safe procedure for a variety of periampullary conditions. Retrospective review of a prospectively collected database. Academic tertiary care hospital. A total of 516 consecutive patients who underwent PD. Patient outcomes and survival factors. Pathological examination demonstrated 57% periampullary cancers, 22% chronic pancreatitis, 12% cystic neoplasms, 4% islet cell neoplasms, and 5% other. Fifty-one percent of patients underwent pylorus preservation. Median operating time was 5 hours; blood loss, 1300 mL; and transfusion requirement, 1.5 U. Postoperative complications occurred in 43% of patients, including cardiopulmonary events (15%), fistula (9%), delayed gastric emptying (7%), and sepsis (6%). Additional surgery was required in 3% of patients, most commonly because of bleeding. Perioperative mortality was 3.9% overall but only 1.8% in patients with chronic pancreatitis; 25% of patients who died had preoperative complications associated with their periampullary condition. Three-year survival was 15% after resection for pancreatic cancer, 42% for duodenal cancer, 53% for ampullary cancer, and 62% for bile duct cancer. Univariate predictors of long-term survival in patients with periampullary adenocarcinoma included elevated glucose levels, liver function test results, abnormal tumor markers, blood loss, transfusion requirement, type of operation, and pathologic findings (periampullary adenocarcinoma type, differentiation, and margin and node status). Multivariate predictors were serum total bilirubin level, blood loss, operation type, diagnosis, and lymph node status. Pancreaticoduodenectomy continues to be associated with considerable morbidity. With careful patient selection, PD can be performed safely. Long-term survival in patients with periampullary adenocarcinoma can be predicted by preoperative laboratory values, intraoperative factors, and pathologic findings.

Widening the Gap: Pre-University Gap Years and the "Economy of Experience"

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Heath, Sue

2007-01-01

Embarking upon a pre-university gap year is an increasingly popular option among British students. Drawing on Brown et al.'s work on positional conflict theory and the increased importance of the "economy of experience", this paper seeks to explore this growing popularity and argues that the gap year's enhanced profile raises important…

Avoiding Human Error in Mission Operations: Cassini Flight Experience

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burk, Thomas A.

2012-01-01

Operating spacecraft is a never-ending challenge and the risk of human error is ever- present. Many missions have been significantly affected by human error on the part of ground controllers. The Cassini mission at Saturn has not been immune to human error, but Cassini operations engineers use tools and follow processes that find and correct most human errors before they reach the spacecraft. What is needed are skilled engineers with good technical knowledge, good interpersonal communications, quality ground software, regular peer reviews, up-to-date procedures, as well as careful attention to detail and the discipline to test and verify all commands that will be sent to the spacecraft. Two areas of special concern are changes to flight software and response to in-flight anomalies. The Cassini team has a lot of practical experience in all these areas and they have found that well-trained engineers with good tools who follow clear procedures can catch most errors before they get into command sequences to be sent to the spacecraft. Finally, having a robust and fault-tolerant spacecraft that allows ground controllers excellent visibility of its condition is the most important way to ensure human error does not compromise the mission.

Repeated Cocaine Experience Facilitates Sucrose-Reinforced Operant Responding in Enriched and Isolated Rats

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Klein, Emily D.; Gehrke, Brenda J.; Green, Thomas A.; Zentall, Thomas R.; Bardo, Michael T.

2007-01-01

The purpose of the present experiment was to determine whether repeated cocaine exposure differentially affects sucrose-reinforced operant responding in rats raised in an enriched condition (EC) or an isolated condition (IC). Specifically, the performance of EC and IC rats pressing a lever for sucrose under a high fixed-ratio schedule (FR 30)…

The SEVAN Worldwide network of particle detectors: 10 years of operation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chilingarian, A.; Babayan, V.; Karapetyan, T.; Mailyan, B.; Sargsyan, B.; Zazyan, M.

2018-05-01

The Space Environment Viewing and Analysis Network (SEVAN) aims to improve the fundamental research on particle acceleration in the vicinity of the sun, on space weather effects and on high-energy physics in the atmosphere and lightning initiation. This new type of a particle detector setup simultaneously measures fluxes of most species of secondary cosmic rays, thus being a powerful integrated device for exploration of solar modulation effects and electron acceleration in the thunderstorm atmosphere. The SEVAN modules are operating at the Aragats Space Environmental Center (ASEC) in Armenia, in Croatia, Bulgaria, Slovakia, the Czech Republic (from 2017) and in India. In this paper, we present the most interesting results of the SEVAN network operation during the last decade. We present this review on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the International Heliophysical Year in 2007.

Death and caring for dying patients: exploring first-year nursing students' descriptive experiences.

PubMed

Ek, Kristina; Westin, Lars; Prahl, Charlotte; Osterlind, Jane; Strang, Susann; Bergh, Ingrid; Hammarlund, Kina

2014-10-01

To describe first-year nursing students' experiences of witnessing death and providing end-of-life care. This study is part of a larger longitudinal project. Interviews (n=17) were conducted with nursing students at the end of their first year of education. To analyse the interviews (lived-experience descriptions), a thematic analysis, 'a search for meaning' ( Van Manen, 1997 ) was applied. The results are presented within the framework of four separate themes: (1) The thought of death is more frightening than the actual experience, (2) Daring to approach the dying patient and offering something of oneself, (3) The experience of not sufficing in the face of death and (4) Being confronted with one's own feelings. Nursing students require continuous support and opportunity to reflect and discuss their experiences about caring for dying patients and confronting death throughout the entirety of their education. In addition, teachers and clinical supervisors need to give support using reflective practice to help students to develop confidence in their capacity for caring for dying patients.

Integrating Renewable Generation into Grid Operations: Four International Experiences

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Weimar, Mark R.; Mylrea, Michael E.; Levin, Todd

International experiences with power sector restructuring and the resultant impacts on bulk power grid operations and planning may provide insight into policy questions for the evolving United States power grid as resource mixes are changing in response to fuel prices, an aging generation fleet and to meet climate goals. Australia, Germany, Japan and the UK were selected to represent a range in the level and attributes of electricity industry liberalization in order to draw comparisons across a variety of regions in the United States such as California, ERCOT, the Southwest Power Pool and the Southeast Reliability Region. The study drawsmore » conclusions through a literature review of the four case study countries with regards to the changing resource mix and the electricity industry sector structure and their impact on grid operations and planning. This paper derives lessons learned and synthesizes implications for the United States based on answers to the above questions and the challenges faced by the four selected countries. Each country was examined to determine the challenges to their bulk power sector based on their changing resource mix, market structure, policies driving the changing resource mix, and policies driving restructuring. Each countries’ approach to solving those changes was examined, as well as how each country’s market structure either exacerbated or mitigated the approaches to solving the challenges to their bulk power grid operations and planning. All countries’ policies encourage renewable energy generation. One significant finding included the low- to zero-marginal cost of intermittent renewables and its potential negative impact on long-term resource adequacy. No dominant solution has emerged although a capacity market was introduced in the UK and is being contemplated in Japan. Germany has proposed the Energy Market 2.0 to encourage flexible generation investment. The grid operator in Australia proposed several approaches to

Science Operations Management

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Squibb, Gael F.

1984-10-01

The operation teams for the Infrared Astronomical Satellite (IRAS) included scientists from the IRAS International Science Team. The scientific decisions on an hour-to-hour basis, as well as the long-term strategic decisions, were made by science team members. The IRAS scientists were involved in the analysis of the instrument performance, the analysis of the quality of the data, the decision to reacquire data that was contaminated by radiation effects, the strategy for acquiring the survey data, and the process for using the telescope for additional observations, as well as the processing decisions required to ensure the publication of the final scientific products by end of flight operations plus one year. Early in the project, two science team members were selected to be responsible for the scientific operational decisions. One, located at the operations control center in England, was responsible for the scientific aspects of the satellite operations; the other, located at the scientific processing center in Pasadena, was responsible for the scientific aspects of the processing. These science team members were then responsible for approving the design and test of the tools to support their responsibilities and then, after launch, for using these tools in making their decisions. The ability of the project to generate the final science data products one year after the end of flight operations is due in a large measure to the active participation of the science team members in the operations. This paper presents a summary of the operational experiences gained from this scientific involvement.

Childhood intussusception: 17-year experience at a tertiary referral centre in Hong Kong.

PubMed

Wong, Carol W Y; Chan, Ivy H Y; Chung, Patrick H Y; Lan, Lawrence C L; Lam, Wendy W M; Wong, Kenneth K Y; Tam, Paul K H

2015-12-01

To review all paediatric patients with intussusception over the last 17 years. Retrospective case series. A tertiary centre in Hong Kong. Children who presented with intussusception from January 1997 to December 2014 were reviewed. The duration of symptoms, successful treatment modalities, complication rate, and length of hospital stay were studied. A total of 173 children (108 male, 65 female) presented to our hospital with intussusception during the study period. Their median age at presentation was 12.5 months (range, 2 months to 16 years) and the mean duration of symptoms was 2.3 (standard deviation, 1.8) days. Vomiting was the most common symptom (76.3%) followed by abdominal pain (46.2%), per rectal bleeding or red currant jelly stool (40.5%), and a palpable abdominal mass (39.3%). Overall, 160 patients proceeded to pneumatic or hydrostatic reduction, among whom 127 (79.4%) were successful. Three (1.9%) patients had bowel perforation during the procedure. Early recurrence of intussusception occurred in four (3.1%) patients with non-operative reduction. No recurrence was reported in the operative group. The presence of a palpable abdominal mass was a risk factor for operative treatment (relative risk=2.0; 95% confidence interval, 1.8-2.2). Analysis of our results suggested that duration of symptoms did not affect the success rate of non-operative reduction. Non-operative reduction has a high success rate and low complication rate, but the presence of a palpable abdominal mass is a risk factor for failure. Operative intervention should not be delayed in those patients who encounter difficult or doubtful non-operative reduction.

Operations of a spaceflight experiment to investigate plant tropisms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kiss, John Z.; Kumar, Prem; Millar, Katherine D. L.; Edelmann, Richard E.; Correll, Melanie J.

2009-10-01

Plants will be an important component in bioregenerative systems for long-term missions to the Moon and Mars. Since gravity is reduced both on the Moon and Mars, studies that identify the basic mechanisms of plant growth and development in altered gravity are required to ensure successful plant production on these space colonization missions. To address these issues, we have developed a project on the International Space Station (ISS) to study the interaction between gravitropism and phototropism in Arabidopsis thaliana. These experiments were termed TROPI (for tropisms) and were performed on the European Modular Cultivation System (EMCS) in 2006. In this paper, we provide an operational summary of TROPI and preliminary results on studies of tropistic curvature of seedlings grown in space. Seed germination in TROPI was lower compared to previous space experiments, and this was likely due to extended storage in hardware for up to 8 months. Video downlinks provided an important quality check on the automated experimental time line that also was monitored with telemetry. Good quality images of seedlings were obtained, but the use of analog video tapes resulted in delays in image processing and analysis procedures. Seedlings that germinated exhibited robust phototropic curvature. Frozen plant samples were returned on three space shuttle missions, and improvements in cold stowage and handing procedures in the second and third missions resulted in quality RNA extracted from the seedlings that was used in subsequent microarray analyses. While the TROPI experiment had technical and logistical difficulties, most of the procedures worked well due to refinement during the project.

Operational foreshock forecasting: Fifteen years after

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ogata, Y.

2010-12-01

We are concerned with operational forecasting of the probability that events are foreshocks of a forthcoming earthquake that is significantly larger (mainshock). Specifically, we define foreshocks as the preshocks substantially smaller than the mainshock by a magnitude gap of 0.5 or larger. The probability gain of foreshock forecast is extremely high compare to long-term forecast by renewal processes or various alarm-based intermediate-term forecasts because of a large event’s low occurrence rate in a short period and a narrow target region. Thus, it is desired to establish operational foreshock probability forecasting as seismologists have done for aftershocks. When a series of earthquakes occurs in a region, we attempt to discriminate foreshocks from a swarm or mainshock-aftershock sequence. Namely, after real time identification of an earthquake cluster using methods such as the single-link algorithm, the probability is calculated by applying statistical features that discriminate foreshocks from other types of clusters, by considering the events' stronger proximity in time and space and tendency towards chronologically increasing magnitudes. These features were modeled for probability forecasting and the coefficients of the model were estimated in Ogata et al. (1996) for the JMA hypocenter data (M≧4, 1926-1993). Currently, fifteen years has passed since the publication of the above-stated work so that we are able to present the performance and validation of the forecasts (1994-2009) by using the same model. Taking isolated events into consideration, the probability of the first events in a potential cluster being a foreshock vary in a range between 0+% and 10+% depending on their locations. This conditional forecasting performs significantly better than the unconditional (average) foreshock probability of 3.7% throughout Japan region. Furthermore, when we have the additional events in a cluster, the forecast probabilities range more widely from nearly 0% to

Donation after cardiac death: a 29-year experience.

PubMed

Bellingham, Janet M; Santhanakrishnan, Chandrasekar; Neidlinger, Nikole; Wai, Philip; Kim, Jim; Niederhaus, Silke; Leverson, Glen E; Fernandez, Luis A; Foley, David P; Mezrich, Joshua D; Odorico, Jon S; Love, Robert B; De Oliveira, Nilto; Sollinger, Hans W; D'Alessandro, Anthony M

2011-10-01

To report the long-term outcomes of 1218 organs transplanted from donation after cardiac death (DCD) donors from January 1980 through December 2008. One-thousand two-hundred-eighteen organs were transplanted into 1137 recipients from 577 DCD donors. This includes 1038 kidneys (RTX), 87 livers (LTX), 72 pancreas (PTX), and 21 DCD lungs. The outcomes were compared with 3470 RTX, 1157 LTX, 903 PTX, and 409 lung transplants from donors after brain death (DBD). Both patient and graft survival is comparable between DBD and DCD transplant recipients for kidney, pancreas, and lung after 1, 3, and 10 years. Our findings reveal a significant difference for patient and graft survival of DCD livers at each of these time points. In contrast to the overall kidney transplant experience, the most recent 16-year period (n = 396 DCD and 1,937 DBD) revealed no difference in patient and graft survival, rejection rates, or surgical complications but delayed graft function was higher (44.7% vs 22.0%; P < .001). In DCD LTX, biliary complications (51% vs 33.4%; P < .01) and retransplantation for ischemic cholangiopathy (13.9% vs 0.2%; P < .01) were increased. PTX recipients had no difference in surgical complications, rejection, and hemoglobin A1c levels. Surgical complications were equivalent between DCD and DBD lung recipients. This series represents the largest single center experience with more than 1000 DCD transplants and given the critical demand for organs, demonstrates successful kidney, pancreas, liver, and lung allografts from DCD donors. Copyright © 2011 Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

MagLev Cobra: Test Facilities and Operational Experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sotelo, G. G.; Dias, D. H. J. N.; de Oliveira, R. A. H.; Ferreira, A. C.; De Andrade, R., Jr.; Stephan, R. M.

2014-05-01

The superconducting MagLev technology for transportation systems is becoming mature due to the research and developing effort of recent years. The Brazilian project, named MagLev-Cobra, started in 1998. It has the goal of developing a superconducting levitation vehicle for urban areas. The adopted levitation technology is based on the diamagnetic and the flux pinning properties of YBa2Cu3O7-δ (YBCO) bulk blocks in the interaction with Nd-Fe-B permanent magnets. A laboratory test facility with permanent magnet guideway, linear induction motor and one vehicle module is been built to investigate its operation. The MagLev-Cobra project state of the art is presented in the present paper, describing some construction details of the new test line with 200 m.

[Disease Experience after Many Years of Orthopedic Therapy in Childhood].

PubMed

Schwarze, Martin; Gerigk, Carina; Schulmeister, Martin; Schiltenwolf, Marcus

2018-06-22

The orthopedic medical history of the now 56-year-old Mr. Z began immediately after his birth with an inpatient clubfoot therapy. With the onset of adolescence, multilocular pain began. The long-standing patient career was characterized by disappointment about the early onset and recurrent need for treatment. The disappointment motive is closely related to the relationship between the patient and his mother. The biography illustrates the intertwining of early (orthopedic) treatment, primary bonding and disease experiences. A multimodal pain therapy was able to target Mr. Z, create positive body experiences and finally reduce the pain. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Translating weight loss into agency: Men's experiences 5 years after bariatric surgery

PubMed Central

Natvik, Eli; Gjengedal, Eva; Moltu, Christian; Råheim, Målfrid

2015-01-01

Fewer men than women with severe obesity undergo bariatric surgery for weight loss, and knowledge about men's situation after surgery, beyond medical status, is lacking. Our aim was to explore men's experiences with life after bariatric surgery from a long-term perspective. We conducted in-depth interviews with 13 men, aged 28–60 years, between 5 and 7 years after surgery. The analysis was inspired by Giorgi's phenomenological method. We found that agency was pivotal for how the men understood themselves and their lives after surgery. Weight loss meant regaining opportunities for living and acting in unrestricted and independent daily lives, yet surgery remained a radical treatment with complex consequences. Turning to surgery had involved conceptualizing their own body size as illness, which the men had resisted doing for years. After surgery, the rapid and major weight loss and the feelings of being exhausted, weak, and helpless were intertwined. The profound intensity of the weight loss process took the men by surprise. Embodying weight loss and change involved an inevitable renegotiating of experiences connected to the large body. Having bariatric surgery was a long-term process that seemed unfinished 5 years after surgery. Restrictions and insecurity connected to health and illness persist, despite successful weight loss and embodied change. Bariatric surgery initiated a complex and long-lasting life-changing process, involving both increased capacity for agency and illness-like experiences. PMID:26066518

Medical Support for Aircraft Disaster Search and Recovery Operations at Sea: the RSN Experience.

PubMed

Teo, Kok Ann Colin; Chong, Tse Feng Gabriel; Liow, Min Han Lincoln; Tang, Kong Choong

2016-06-01

The maritime environment presents a unique set of challenges to search and recovery (SAR) operations. There is a paucity of information available to guide provision of medical support for SAR operations for aircraft disasters at sea. The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) took part in two such SAR operations in 2014 which showcased the value of a military organization in these operations. Key considerations in medical support for similar operations include the resultant casualty profile and challenges specific to the maritime environment, such as large distances of area of operations from land, variable sea states, and space limitations. Medical support planning can be approached using well-established disaster management life cycle phases of preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery, which all are described in detail. This includes key areas of dedicated training and exercises, force protection, availability of air assets and chamber support, psychological care, and the forensic handling of human remains. Relevant lessons learned by RSN from the Air Asia QZ8501 search operation are also included in the description of these key areas. Teo KAC , Chong TFG , Liow MHL , Tang KC . Medical support for aircraft disaster search and recovery operations at sea: the RSN experience. Prehosp Disaster Med. 2016; 31(3):294-299.

A Hospital Local Area Communication Network—The First Year's Experience

PubMed Central

Simborg, D. W.; Chadwick, M.; Whiting-O'Keefe, Q. E.; Tolchin, S. G.; Stewart, R. L.; Kahn, S. A.; Bergan, E. S.; Gafke, G. P.

1982-01-01

A local area communications network has been implemented at the University of California, San Francisco Hospital to integrate major components of the hospital's information system. This microprocessor-based network technology was developed by The Applied Physics Laboratory of the Johns Hopkins University. The first year's experience has demonstrated the basic feasibility of this technology in simplifying the integration of diverse hardware and software systems. Four minicomputer-based UCSF systems now use the network to synchronize key patient identification and registration information among the systems. Clinical uses of the network will begin during the second year of the project.

Liver Transplantation With Old Grafts: A Ten-Year Experience.

PubMed

Roullet, S; Defaye, M; Quinart, A; Adam, J-P; Chiche, L; Laurent, C; Neau-Cransac, M

2017-11-01

The persistent scarcity of donors has prompted liver transplantation teams to find solutions for increasing graft availability. We report our experience of liver transplantations performed with grafts from older donors, specifically over 70 and 80 years old. We analyzed our prospectively maintained single-center database from January 1, 2005, to December 31, 2014, with 380 liver transplantations performed in 354 patients. Six groups were composed according to donor age: <40 (n = 84), 40 to 49 (n = 67), from 50 to 59 (n = 62), from 60 to 69 (n = 76), from 70 to 79 (n = 64), and ≥80 years (n = 27). Donors <40 years of age had a lower body mass index, died more often from trauma, and more often had cardiac arrest and high transaminase levels. In contrast, older donors (≥70 years of age) died more often from stroke. Recipients of grafts from donors <50 years of age were more frequently infected by hepatitis C virus; recipients of oldest grafts more often had hepatocellular carcinoma. Cold ischemia time was the shortest in donors >80 years of age. Patient survival was not significantly different between the groups. In multivariate analysis, factors predicting graft loss were transaminase peak, retransplantation and cold ischemia time but not donor age. Older donors >70 and >80 years of age could provide excellent liver grafts. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Total aortic arch replacement with the frozen elephant trunk technique: 10-year follow-up single-centre experience.

PubMed

Ius, Fabio; Fleissner, Felix; Pichlmaier, Maximilian; Karck, Matthias; Martens, Andreas; Haverich, Axel; Shrestha, Malakh

2013-11-01

Since August 2001, the frozen elephant trunk (FET) technique has been used at our institution to treat degenerative or dissecting aneurysms involving the aortic arch and descending aorta as a potential 'single-stage' procedure. The aim of this study was to review our FET experience and to present the 10-year results. Between August 2001 and January 2012, 131 patients underwent FET implant with three different prostheses: the custom-made Chavan-Haverich (n = 66), the Jotec E-vita (n = 30) and the Vascutek Thoraflex (n = 35) prostheses. Concomitant procedures included aortic valve-sparing operations (David, n = 17) and aortic root replacement (Bentall, n = 25). Patient records and the first postoperative and last available computer tomography (CT) were retrospectively reviewed. Incidence of rethoracotomy for bleeding, stroke, spinal cord injury, prolonged ventilatory support (>96 h) and acute renal failure requiring dialysis were 18, 11, 1, 41 and 16%, respectively. In-hospital mortality was 15%. The mean follow-up was 42 ± 37 (range 1-134 months). At 1, 5 and 10 years, survivals were 82 ± 3, 72 ± 5 and 58 ± 8%, respectively. Freedoms from distal aortic operation were 81 ± 4, 67 ± 5 and 43 ± 13%, respectively. Thirty-six patients underwent 40 distal aortic operations, either open surgical (n = 22, 55%) or endovascular (n = 18, 45%). Chronic aortic dissection was identified as an independent risk factor for distal aortic operation (odds ratio = 3.8; 95% confidence interval 1.5-9.3; P = 0.004). At last CT control, false-lumen thrombosis rates up to 93% were achieved around the stent graft. An FET concept adds to the armament of the surgeon in the treatment of complex and diverse aortic arch pathologies. The preoperative patient risk profile explains the postoperative morbidity and in-hospital mortality. The FET can potentially be still a 'one-stage' procedure in selected patients. However, the extension of FET to patients with extensive aortic aneurysms has led

LANL OPERATING EXPERIENCE WITH THE WAND AND HERCULES PROTOTYPE SYSTEMS

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

K. M. GRUETZMACHER; C. L. FOXX; S. C. MYERS

2000-09-01

The Waste Assay for Nonradioactive Disposal (WAND) and the High Efficiency Radiation Counters for Ultimate Low Emission Sensitivity (HERCULES) prototype systems have been operating at Los Alamos National Laboratory's (LANL's) Solid Waste Operation's (SWO'S) non-destructive assay (NDA) building since 1997 and 1998, respectively. These systems are the cornerstone of the verification program for low-density Green is Clean (GIC) waste at the Laboratory. GIC waste includes all non-regulated waste generated in radiological controlled areas (RCAS) that has been actively segregated as clean (i.e., nonradioactive) through the use of waste generator acceptable knowledge (AK). The use of this methodology alters LANL's pastmore » practice of disposing of all room trash generated in nuclear facilities in radioactive waste landfills. Waste that is verified clean can be disposed of at the Los Alamos County Landfill. It is estimated that 50-90% of the low-density room trash from radioactive material handling areas at Los Alamos might be free of contamination. This approach avoids the high cost of disposal of clean waste at a radioactive waste landfill. It also reduces consumption of precious space in the radioactive waste landfill where disposal of this waste provides no benefit to the public or the environment. Preserving low level waste (LLW) disposal capacity for truly radioactive waste is critical in this era when expanding existing radioactive waste landfills or permitting new ones is resisted by regulators and stakeholders. This paper describes the operating experience with the WAND and HERCULES since they began operation at SWO. Waste for verification by the WAND system has been limited so far to waste from the Plutonium Facility and the Solid Waste Operations Facility. A total of461 ft3 (13.1 m3) of low-density shredded waste and paper have been verified clean by the WAND system. The HERCULES system has been used to verify waste from four Laboratory facilities. These are

Tracheal T-Tube Stent for Laryngotracheal Stenosis: Ten Year Experience

PubMed Central

Dass, Arjun; M Nagarkar, Nitin; K Singhal, Surinder; Verma, Hitesh

2014-01-01

Introduction: The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate the outcome following stenting over a period of 10 years in patients with chronic laryngotracheal stenosis. Materials and Methods: Between 2000–2010, out of 111 patients with laryngotracheal trauma, 71 underwent tracheal T-stenting for laryngotracheal stenosis in the Department of Otorhinolaryngology at the Government Medical College and Hospital, Chandigarh, India. All 71 patients underwent stenting by tracheal T-stent through an external approach. The follow-up period ranged from 3–10 years (mean, 3.2 years). The tracheal T-stent was removed after a minimum period of 6–12 months. Results: The majority of patients in this study were aged less than 10 years or between the ages of 20–30 years. A pre-operative tracheostomy (emergency or elective) was performed in all patients. of 71 patients, decannulation was not possible in six (8%). Conclusion: Management of laryngotracheal stenosis is a challenging problem that demands a multidisciplinary approach from surgical teams well trained in this field. The ideal treatment option should be individualized according to patient characteristics. The use of silastic stents has both advantages and disadvantages. PMID:24505573

Transanal haemorrhoidal dearterialization for the treatment of grade III and IV haemorrhoids: a 3-year experience.

PubMed

Loganathan, Arun; Das, Atandrilla; Luck, Andrew; Hewett, Peter

2016-01-01

Transanal haemorrhoidal dearterialization (THD) is increasingly perceived as an effective and better tolerated alternative to excisional haemorrhoidectomy. The aim of this study was to evaluate outcomes and the patient experience of THD in an Australian population with grade III or IV haemorrhoids. A retrospective review of prospectively maintained database on patients who had undergone THD over a 3-year period was performed. Data were collected on demographics, operative data, complications, recurrences and readmissions, postoperative pain and further interventions. Patient perceptions and satisfaction with the procedure were assessed with a telephone survey. A total of 85 patients with a mean age of 55 (±14) years with grade III (85%) or grade IV (15%) haemorrhoids underwent THD. Indications for surgery were predominantly bleeding (87%) and prolapse (41%). Median outpatients follow-up was 42 days and median telephone follow-up was 802 days. Median operating time was 25 min (±12). Twenty-four per cent of patients suffered complications, including postoperative bleeding (7%), constipation (7%), local sepsis (6%), anal fissure (5%) and temporary incontinence (2%). Severe postoperative pain occurred in 16% of the patients. The symptom recurrence rate was 19% and reintervention rate was 14%. About 98.8% of patients reported good or excellent overall satisfaction with the procedure. THD is a relatively new technique for the treatment of haemorrhoids, which is increasingly being used as an alternative to excisional haemorrhoidectomy. This study shows that patients' satisfaction with THD is high despite a moderate complication and recurrence rate and significant incidence of postoperative pain. © 2014 Royal Australasian College of Surgeons.

Influence of Operator's Experience on the Shaping Ability of Protaper Universal and Waveone Systems: A Comparative Study on Simulated Root Canals.

PubMed

Troiano, Giuseppe; Dioguardi, Mario; Cocco, Armando; Giannatempo, Giovanni; Laino, Luigi; Ciavarella, Domenico; Berutti, Elio; Lo Muzio, Lorenzo

2016-01-01

To assess the influence of operator experience on: shaping and centering ability, mean preparation time and presence of canal aberrations of ProTaper Universal and WaveOne systems on simulated root canals. Sixty S-shaped canals in resin blocks were assigned to four groups (n=15 for each group). Group1 (Experienced operator, ProTaper), Group2 (Experienced operator, WaveOne), Group3 (Inexperienced operator, ProTaper), Group4 (Inexperienced operator, WaveOne). Photographic method was used to record pre- and post-instrumentations images. After superimposition, it has been evaluated presence of canal aberrations and differences in shaping and centering ability between groups. WaveOne system produced a lower amount of canal aberrations both in the hand of expert than inexpert operators. However, a WaveOne instrument breakage occurred in the hands of an inexperienced operator. No differences have been found in the evaluation of shaping ability with both systematics. Operator's experience doesn't influence the shaping ability of ProTaper and WaveOne systems. Experience factor could influence the centering ability in the use of both the systematics. However, WaveOne Primary reduce the mean preparation time and the presence of canal aberrations.

11 Years of experience in vitreoretinal surgery training in Nairobi, Kenya, from 2000 to 2010.

PubMed

Schönfeld, Carl-Ludwig; Kollmann, Martin; Nyaga, Patrick; Onyango, Oskar; Klauss, Volker; Kampik, Anselm

2013-08-01

We aim to demonstrate that vitreoretinal surgery can be established in Nairobi, Kenya, by intermittent short visits of experienced surgeons combined with clinical/surgical observerships over a longer period of cooperation. This strategy might be a model for other developing countries. Time series over 11 years. 685 operations were performed over 11 years. After the 1998 al-Qaeda bomb assault on the U.S. embassy in Nairobi, Kenya, the Ludwig-Maximilians-University München (Germany) provided materials for surgery of 42 victims with eye injuries. From the year 2000 onward, this equipment has been used to establish a training unit at the Kenyatta Hospital in Nairobi. In 1 annual "project week," 1 author (C-L.S.) performed vitreoretinal surgery at the University of Nairobi in cooperation with the Kenyatta National Hospital and supervised resident eye surgeons. After 7 years of training in Nairobi, clinical/surgical observerships of vitreoretinal surgeons and operating theatre staff were commenced in Munich by 4- to 12-week visits. The project week in Nairobi was carried on. Number, indications, operating surgeons, kind, difficulty, duration of operations, and preparation were recorded and evaluated. The percentage of operations by resident surgeons increased from 29% (in 2000) via 80% (in 2009) to 73% (in 2010) with a partial failure of the laser device. The learning curve of local surgeons is also reflected by an increase of the operations' difficulty with only a moderate increase in operation time and marked decrease of preparation time. A vitreoretinal unit has been established in Nairobi using our training model. This unit has the potential to train colleagues from other sub-Saharan countries. This strategy has advantages over long-term aid deployment of foreign physicians such as avoiding financial burden for the surgeons to be trained and improving the home facility, but it requires commitment for long-term cooperation. Copyright © 2013 Canadian Ophthalmological

Photochemical Reactions of Tris (Oxalato) Iron (III): A First-Year Chemistry Experiment.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Baker, A. D.; And Others

1980-01-01

Describes a first-year chemistry experiment that illustrates the fundamental concepts of a photoinduced reaction. Qualitative and quantitative parts of the photoreduction of potassium ferrioxalate are detailed. (CS)

Australian experience with frozen blood products on military operations.

PubMed

Neuhaus, Susan J; Wishaw, Ken; Lelkens, Charles

2010-02-15

Historically, the Australian Defence Force (ADF) has sourced all its blood supplies from the Australian Red Cross Blood Service. Recent ADF operations in the Middle East have highlighted a need to rely on other nations' blood supply systems. In 2008, the ADF embedded a surgical and intensive care team into the Netherlands-led forward health facility at the Uruzgan Medical Centre at Tarin Kowt in Afghanistan. To date, three teams have provided 2-month rotations as part of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan. The Netherlands armed forces use a sophisticated system for supply of liquid and frozen blood products (frozen red cells, plasma and platelets). We review Australian experience with the Dutch system of supplying blood products for major trauma resuscitation in Afghanistan.

Safety profile: fifteen years of clinical experience with ibuprofen.

PubMed

Royer, G L; Seckman, C E; Welshman, I R

1984-07-13

Since its introduction in the United States in 1974, ibuprofen (Motrin, Upjohn) has been shown to be safe and effective for the treatment of pain, dysmenorrhea, inflammation, and fever. A careful review of pre-registration and postmarketing data from both patients and normal subjects clearly indicates ibuprofen's remarkable safety profile compared with that of aspirin and other commonly prescribed nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents. Continued safety can be anticipated on the basis of the past 15 years of review experience.

Coronary reconnection in emergency "conduit operation" for acute type-a aortic dissection with aortic insufficiency: experience with 24 cases.

PubMed

Massimo, C G; Presenti, L F; Favi, P P; Duranti, A; Poma, A G; Marranci, P; Modiano, C

1987-12-01

Twenty-four cases of acute type-A aortic dissection with aortic valvular insufficiency were treated in our institution by means of an emergency operation in which the aortic valve, ascending aorta, and aortic arch were resected and replaced with a valved conduit that had been lengthened with a tubular Dacron graft. The procedure included the use of deep hypothermia for cerebral protection, as well as extracorporeal circulation. Aortic resection was performed from the aortic valve to the origin of the descending thoracic aorta; the aortic graft was anastomosed proximally to the valve annulus and distally to the descending aorta. The carotid orifices were connected to the side of the graft in a single tissue button. The coronary arteries were then reconnected by means of double venous bypass grafts to the innominate artery, to allow for inclusion of the graft. Within 1 month after operation, four patients died of the consequences of dissection. Six months postoperatively, one patient succumbed to an infarction. Six months to 5 years after operation, the remaining 19 patients are still alive. On the basis of this experience, we believe that acute type-A aortic dissection with aortic valvular insufficiency should be treated during the first hours after the onset of symptoms. The above-described procedure proved effective in the control of bleeding, which is the major risk in emergency operations of this type.

Auditory processing and phonological awareness skills of five-year-old children with and without musical experience.

PubMed

Escalda, Júlia; Lemos, Stela Maris Aguiar; França, Cecília Cavalieri

2011-09-01

To investigate the relations between musical experience, auditory processing and phonological awareness of groups of 5-year-old children with and without musical experience. Participants were 56 5-year-old subjects of both genders, 26 in the Study Group, consisting of children with musical experience, and 30 in the Control Group, consisting of children without musical experience. All participants were assessed with the Simplified Auditory Processing Assessment and Phonological Awareness Test and the data was statistically analyzed. There was a statistically significant difference between the results of the sequential memory test for verbal and non-verbal sounds with four stimuli, phonological awareness tasks of rhyme recognition, phonemic synthesis and phonemic deletion. Analysis of multiple binary logistic regression showed that, with exception of the sequential verbal memory with four syllables, the observed difference in subjects' performance was associated with their musical experience. Musical experience improves auditory and metalinguistic abilities of 5-year-old children.

Space Environment Factors Affecting the Performance of International Space Station Materials: The First Two Years of Flight Operations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koontz, Steven L.; Peldey, Michael; Mayeaux, Brian; Milkatarian, Ronald R.; Golden, John; Boeder, paul; Kern, John; Barsamian, Hagop; Alred, John; Soares, Carlos;

Patient injuries in operative rhinology during a ten-year period: Review of national patient insurance charts.

PubMed

Blomgren, K; Aaltonen, L-M; Lehtonen, L; Helmiö, P

2018-02-01

To assess factors contributing to patient injuries in operative rhinology. Data of the accepted patient injury claims involving operative rhinology, between the years 2001 and 2011, were obtained from the Finnish Patient Insurance Centre registry. Two senior otolaryngologists analysed and evaluated the injury mechanisms. Analysis and classification of factors contributing to patient injuries. During the ten-year study period, there were 67 patient injuries in operative rhinology, comprising 36% of all patient injuries in otorhinolaryngologic surgery. The majority (78%) of patients were treated in university or central hospitals and almost all (90%) by fully trained otolaryngology specialists. The factors contributing to the injuries were errors in surgical technique, like lesions to the orbit, skull base and meninges, and adjacent nerves, as well as mistakes with removable packings left in situ. Nearly half of the patients had undergone endoscopic sinus surgery. One patient died because of bleeding from the intracranial artery. Fourteen patients (21%) needed a re-operation due to the injury. Patient injuries in rhinology were caused by typical complications of common operations performed by otorhinolaryngology specialists. The increased volume of endoscopic sinus surgery was evident also in patient injuries. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

[Transaxillary robot-assisted thyroidectomy: First experiences with a new operation technique].

PubMed

Eckhardt, S; Maurer, E; Fendrich, V; Bartsch, D K

2015-10-01

The main advantage of transaxillary robotic-assisted thyroid surgery (TRAT) is the avoidance of a scar on the neck. As TRAT is still rarely performed in Germany, there are not yet any German reports on acceptance, operation times and complications. In a pilot study all patients with an indication for hemithyroidectomy without preoperative evidence of malignancies or previous neck surgery and a lobe size < 30 ml, a body mass index (BMI) < 30 and age > 18 years were offered transaxillary robotic-assisted hemithyroidectomy (TRAHT) after a detailed explanation of this operation. The acceptance of this new technique, the operation time, complications and patient satisfaction were prospectively recorded and analyzed. Between January 2013 and October 2014 a total of 65 patients were offered the option of a TRAHT and 21 (32%) patients opted for this surgical technique. None of these 21 operations had to be converted and there were no intraoperative complications. The median operation time was 190 min (range 106-300 min) with a significant learning curve (first 5 TRAHT 219 min and last 5 TRAHT 163 min), 10 (48%) patients had a postoperative slight transient skin dysesthesia in the area of the access route, 4 (19%) patients had a transient recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy and 2 patients (9%) had a transient upper brachial plexus palsy. After the first 21 TRAHT operations, 2 Dunhill operations for Grave's disease were also performed via a single axillary incision. The operation times were 320 min and 260 min without complications and 21 out of the 23 patients (91%) were highly satisfied with the cosmetic result and would choose TRAT again. The TRAT procedure still has low acceptance by German patients but patient satisfaction after surgery is high due to the cosmetic result. The extended operation time, new complications (e.g. transient plexus palsy) and a potentially increased rate of transient recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy must be critically considered.

Multimodal treatment with primary single-agent epirubicin in operable breast cancer: 5-year experience of the Michelangelo Cooperative Group.

PubMed

Bonadonna, G; Zambetti, M; Bumma, C; Donadio, M; Bolognesi, A; Robustelli Della Cuna, G; Ambrosini, G; Lelli, G; Mansutti, M; Verderio, P; Valagussa, P

2002-07-01

To assess the efficacy of primary single-agent epirubicin (120 mg/m(2) every 3 weeks for three cycles) in reducing tumor burden in operable breast cancer >or=2.5 cm in largest diameter at diagnosis and its effect on the rate of conservative surgery. A total of 319 eligible patients, who were all candidates for mastectomy, were enrolled on to a multicenter prospective non-randomized study. Tumor response was assessed clinically and pathologically. Relapse-free and overall survival were assessed on major prognostic variables. After primary epirubicin, complete disappearance of invasive neoplastic cells accounted for only 2.6% of patients, but 40% of patients had their primary tumor downstaged to years, both primary tumor size at diagnosis (P <0.01) and pathological nodal involvement (P <0.01) significantly influenced treatment outcome. After conserving surgery and breast irradiation, local recurrences accounted for approximately 4% of patients. This multicenter study confirms that three cycles of full-dose epirubicin can avoid mutilating surgery in a high proportion of patients with tumors not amenable to primary conservative surgery. This multimodal treatment can be safely administered outside of clinical trials in patients presenting with large tumors and with a desire to preserve their body integrity.

Fiscal year 1981 US corn and soybeans pilot preliminary experiment plan, phase 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Livingston, G. P.; Nedelman, K. S.; Norwood, D. F.; Smith, J. H. (Principal Investigator)

1981-01-01

A draft of the preliminary experiment plan for the foreign commodity production forecasting project fiscal year 1981 is presented. This draft plan includes: definition of the phase 1 and 2 U.S. pilot objectives; the proposed experiment design to evaluate crop calendar, area estimation, and area aggregation components for corn and soybean technologies using 1978/1979 crop-year data; a description of individual sensitivity evaluations of the baseline corn and soybean segment classification procedure; and technology and data assessment in support of the corn and soybean estimation technology for use in the U.S. central corn belt.

Vaginal hysterectomies in patients without uterine prolapse: ten-year experience.

PubMed

Cheung, K W; Pun, T C

2013-08-01

To review the results of vaginal hysterectomies in patients without uterine prolapse. Retrospective chart review. University affiliated hospital, Hong Kong. All patients who had vaginal hysterectomies in the absence of uterine prolapse from 1999 to 2005 inclusive (first period) and 2006 to 2009 inclusive (second period). The number of such hysterectomies, indications, operative procedures, complications, use of preoperative gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist, and concomitant vaginal salpingo-oophorectomies performed. In all, 94 and 98 patients fulfilling the necessary inclusion criteria within the two respective periods underwent vaginal hysterectomy. The indications for hysterectomy in the respective groups were similar, and 89 (95%) and 90 (92%) of the patients were Chinese. The respective proportions having additional procedures were 11% versus 23% (P=0.018) and the respective vaginal bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy rates were 1% versus 15% (P<0.001). The vault haematoma rate decreased significantly in the second period (from 12% to 1%; P=0.002). There were no significant differences between the periods with respect to mean operative blood losses, uterine weights, and operating times. The use of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist resulted in reduced mean uterine sizes (12 weeks vs 10 weeks; P=0.041). A decreasing trend in mean operating times and blood losses was also observed after such use. Vaginal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomies were successfully performed in 12 (80%) patients without laparoscopic assistance. For this procedure, a learning curve was also evident. Surgeons' experience can influence the complication rate and the chance of successful vaginal salpingo-oophorectomy. More liberal use of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist may further reduce the complication rate and allow more vaginal hysterectomies.

Best Practices for Operations of Satellite Constellations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Howard, Joseph; Oza, Dipak; Smith, Danford S.

2006-01-01

This paper presents the best practices used by several commercial and government operators of satellite constellations. These best practices were identified through a series of seminars and discussions held at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC). The best practices are arrived through many years of experience and improvements made in the operations procedures and the operational systems with the primary drivers as mission safety and cost effectiveness. This paper discusses the operational aspects associated with how different organizations manage complexities of constellation operations. For the purposes of this paper, satellite constellations are groups of similar spacecraft with more than one spacecraft needed to fully accomplish the constellation's mission

Annual review of aircraft accident data : U.S. air carrier operations calendar year 1997

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2002-01-24

This publication presents the record of aviation accidents involving revenue operations of U.S. : air carriers including commuter air carriers and on-demand air taxis for calendar year 1997. : The report is divided into three major sections according...

Interaction processes at the concrete-bentonite interface after 13 years of FEBEX-Plug operation. Part II: Bentonite contact

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fernández, Raúl; Torres, Elena; Ruiz, Ana I.; Cuevas, Jaime; Alonso, María Cruz; García Calvo, José Luis; Rodríguez, Enrique; Turrero, María Jesús

2017-06-01

The in situ FEBEX experiment performed at the URL in Grimsel (Swizerland) was dismantled after 18 years of operation. Interface samples between bentonite and a shotcreted concrete plug that was constructed in a second operational phase have been studied after 13 years of interaction. Mineralogical and geochemical characterization of samples have been performed by XRD, SEM-EDX, TG and FTIR techniques in addition to determinations of major ions by chemical analysis of aqueous extracts, δ18O and δ13C stable isotopes both in concrete paste and bentonite, and exchangeable cations in bentonite. Low mineralogical alteration impact was observed in bentonite that is only affected by a few millimeters. A large accumulation of Mg was observed at the bentonite side of the interface precipitating as silicates in various forms. In addition, heterogeneous carbonation was observed at the interface, but mostly affecting the concrete side. Migration of aqueous species occurred, being the most relevant the diffusion of chloride and sulfate from bentonite to concrete, in agreement with Part I of this study. Chloride advanced more into the concrete, while sulfates reacted to form ettringite, which has an evident alteration impact at the very interface (<0.5 mm rim) within the concrete. The ionic mobility has also redistributed the exchangeable cations in bentonite, increasing the content in Ca2+ and Na+, compensated by a decrease in Mg2+. The results presented in this paper complement those presented in Part I, focusing on the alteration of concrete by the bentonite and the granite groundwater.

Maintenance Free Fluidic Transfer and Mixing Devices for Highly Radioactive Applications - Design, Development, Deployment and Operational Experience

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Phillips, C.; Richardson, J. E.; Fallows, P.

2006-07-01

Power Fluidics is the generic name for a range of maintenance-free fluid transfer and mixing devices, capable of handling a wide range of highly radioactive fluids, jointly developed by British Nuclear Group, its US-based subsidiary BNG America, and AEA Technology. Power Fluidic devices include Reverse Flow Diverters (RFDs), Vacuum Operated Slug Lifts (VOSLs), and Air Lifts, all of which have an excellent proven record for pumping radioactive liquids and sludges. Variants of the RFD, termed Pulse Jet Mixers (PJMs) are used to agitate and mix tank contents, where maintenance-free equipment is desirable, and where a high degree of homogenization ismore » necessary. The equipment is designed around the common principle of using compressed air to provide the motive force to transfer liquids and sludges. These devices have no moving parts in contact with the radioactive medium and therefore require no maintenance in radioactive areas of processing plants. Once commissioned, Power Fluidic equipment has been demonstrated to operate for the life of the facility. Over 800 fluidic devices continue to operate safely and reliably in British Nuclear Group's nuclear facilities at the Sellafield site in the United Kingdom, and some of these have done so for almost 40 years. More than 400 devices are being supplied by AEA Technology and BNG America for the Waste Treatment Plant (WTP) at the Hanford Site in southeastern Washington State, USA. This paper discusses: - Principles of operation of fluidic pumps and mixers. - Selection criteria and design of fluidic pumps and mixers. - Operational experience of fluidic pumps and mixers in the United Kingdom. - Applications of fluidic pumps and mixers at the U.S. Department of Energy nuclear sites. (authors)« less

The impact of salivary mutans streptococci and sugar consumption on caries experience in 6-year olds and 12-year olds in Riga.

PubMed

Gudkina, Jekaterina; Brinkmane, Anda

2010-01-01

To assess possible relationship between caries experience, salivary cariogenic microflora and free sugar consumption in 6 year and 12 year old children in Riga, to evaluate these variables in risk assessment. 79 children aged 6 and 96 children aged 12 were examined clinically and by bitewing X-ray for caries diagnosis. Also all children or their parents were questioned about number of tea spoons containing sugar used per cup and frequency of cups used daily. Salivary mutans streptococci (MS) and lactobacilli (LB) (CRT-bacteria; Ivoclar; Vivadent; Liechtenstein) were determined only for children with dmft/DMFT>4: 27.8% at the age of 6, 40.6% at the age of 12. All data were statistically analyzed using frequency tables and analysis of variance. Statistical significance of differences in proportions was tested using chi-square test, Analysis included evaluation of how changes in variables such as free sugar consumption affects caries in particular age group. Mean number of tea spoons containing sugar used per cup was 1.47 in 6 year olds and 1.86 in 12 year olds, but daily amount of tea spoons containing sugar was 2.71 and 4.36 in each age group accordingly. Tea spoons of sugar per cup were associated with caries experience only in 6 year olds (p=0.098). A significant association was observed between caries experience, salivary MS and an amount of tea spoons containing sugar used per cup in both age groups (for 6 y.o. p= 0.037, for 12 y.o. p=0.037). Also caries experience was strongly associated with salivary MS and daily amount of tea spoons containing sugar, but only in 12 year olds (p=0.041). The information of free sugar consumption per cup or daily gives the possibility to control free sugar use in order to reduce caries development in 6 year old and 12 year old children in Riga.

First two operational years of the electron-beam ion trap charge breeder at the National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lapierre, A.; Bollen, G.; Crisp, D.; Krause, S. W.; Linhardt, L. E.; Lund, K.; Nash, S.; Rencsok, R.; Ringle, R.; Schwarz, S.; Steiner, M.; Sumithrarachchi, C.; Summers, T.; Villari, A. C. C.; Williams, S. J.; Zhao, Q.

2018-05-01

The electron-beam ion trap (EBIT) charge breeder of the ReA post-accelerator, located at the National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory (Michigan State University), started on-line operation in September 2015. Since then, the EBIT has delivered many pilot beams of stable isotopes and several rare-isotope beams. An operating aspect of the ReA EBIT is the breeding of high charge states to reach high reaccelerated beam energies. Efficiencies in single charge states of more than 20% were measured with K39 15 + , Rb85 27 + , K47 17 + , and Ar34 15 + . Producing high charge states demands long breeding times. This reduces the ejection frequency and, hence, increases the number of ions ejected per pulse. Another operating aspect is the ability to spread the distribution in time of the ejected ion pulses to lower the instantaneous rate delivered to experiments. Pulse widths were stretched from a natural 25 μ s up to ˜70 ms . This publication reviews the progress of the ReA EBIT system over the years and presents the results of charge-breeding efficiency measurements and pulse-stretching tests obtained with stable- and rare-isotope beams. Studies performed with high sensitivity to identify and quantify stable-isotope contaminants from the EBIT are also presented, along with a novel method for purifying beams.

The First Year Experience in Australian Universities: Findings from Two Decades, 1994-­2014

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Baik, Chi; Naylor, Ryan; Arkoudis, Sophie

2015-01-01

This report provides an analysis of trends over a twenty year period in the attitudes and experiences of first year students in Australian universities. It is based on the national survey of first year students undertaken by the Melbourne Centre for the Study of Higher Education at five-yearly intervals since 1994. Dramatic changes have taken…

Necrotizing fasciitis: eight-year experience and literature review.

PubMed

Wang, Jinn-Ming; Lim, Hwee-Kheng

2014-01-01

To describe clinical, laboratory, microbiological features, and outcomes of necrotizing fasciitis. From January 1, 2004 to December 31, 2011, 115 patients (79 males, 36 females) diagnosed with necrotizing fasciitis were admitted to Mackay Memorial Hospital in Taitung. Demographic data, clinical features, location of infection, type of comorbidities, microbiology and laboratory results, and outcomes of patients were retrospectively analyzed. Among 115 cases, 91 survived (79.1%) and 24 died (20.9%). There were 67 males (73.6%) and 24 females (26.4%) with a median age of 54 years (inter-quartile ranges, 44.0-68.0 years) in the survival group; and 12 males (50%) and 12 females (50%) with a median age of 61 years (inter-quartile ranges, 55.5-71.5 years) in the non-surviving group. The most common symptoms were local swelling/erythema, fever, pain/tenderness in 92 (80%), 87 (76%) and 84 (73%) patients, respectively. The most common comorbidies were liver cirrhosis in 54 patients (47%) and diabetes mellitus in 45 patients (39%). A single organism was identified in 70 patients (61%), multiple pathogens were isolated in 20 patients (17%), and no microorganism was identified in 30 patients (26%). The significant risk factors were gender, hospital length of stay, and albumin level. Necrotizing fasciitis, although not common, can cause notable rates of morbidity and mortality. It is important to have a high index of suspicion and increase awareness in view of the paucity of specific cutaneous findings early in the course of the disease. Prompt diagnosis and early operative debridement with adequate antibiotics are vital. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

Laparoscopic upper pole heminephroureterectomy in children: Seven-year experience.