Validity of Criteria-Based Content Analysis (CBCA) at Trial in Free-Narrative Interviews

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Roma, Paolo; San Martini, Pietro; Sabatello, Ugo; Tatarelli, Roberto; Ferracuti, Stefano

2011-01-01

Objective: The reliability of child witness testimony in sexual abuse cases is often controversial, and few tools are available. Criteria-Based Content Analysis (CBCA) is a widely used instrument for evaluating psychological credibility in cases of suspected child sexual abuse. Only few studies have evaluated CBCA scores in children suspected of…

A Transdisciplinary Approach to Training: Preliminary Research Findings Based on a Case Analysis

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bimpitsos, Christos; Petridou, Eugenia

2012-01-01

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to discuss the benefits, barriers and challenges of the transdisciplinary approach to training, and to present findings of a case analysis. Design/methodology/approach: The paper is based on the research findings of an experimental training program for Greek local government managers co-funded by the European…

Putting the Learning in Case Learning? The Effects of Case-Based Approaches on Student Knowledge, Attitudes, and Engagement

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Krain, Matthew

2016-01-01

This study revisits case learning's effects on student engagement and assesses student learning as a result of the use of case studies and problem-based learning. The author replicates a previous study that used indirect assessment techniques to get at case learning's impact, and then extends the analysis using a pre- and post-test experimental…

Trade-Off Analysis between Concerns Based on Aspect-Oriented Requirements Engineering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Laurito, Abelyn Methanie R.; Takada, Shingo

The identification of functional and non-functional concerns is an important activity during requirements analysis. However, there may be conflicts between the identified concerns, and they must be discovered and resolved through trade-off analysis. Aspect-Oriented Requirements Engineering (AORE) has trade-off analysis as one of its goals, but most AORE approaches do not actually offer support for trade-off analysis; they focus on describing concerns and generating their composition. This paper proposes an approach for trade-off analysis based on AORE using use cases and the Requirements Conflict Matrix (RCM) to represent compositions. RCM shows the positive or negative effect of non-functional concerns over use cases and other non-functional concerns. Our approach is implemented within a tool called E-UCEd (Extended Use Case Editor). We also show the results of evaluating our tool.

Ethical Implications of Case-Based Payment in China: A Systematic Analysis.

PubMed

Jin, Pingyue; Biller-Andorno, Nikola; Wild, Verina

2015-12-01

How health care providers are paid affects how medicine is practiced. It is thus important to assess provider payment models not only from the economic perspective but also from the ethical perspective. China recently started to reform the provider payment model in the health care system from fee-for-service to case-based payment. This paper aims to examine this transition from an ethical perspective. We collected empirical studies on the impact of case-based payment in the Chinese health care system and applied a systematic ethical matrix that integrates clinical ethics and public health ethics to analyze the empirical findings. We identified eleven prominent ethical issues related to case-based payment. Some ethical problems of case-based payment in China are comparable to ethical problems of managed care and diagnosis related groups in high-income countries. However, in this paper we discuss in greater detail four specific ethical issues in the Chinese context: professionalism, the patient-physician relationship, access to care and patient autonomy. Based on the analysis, we cautiously infer that case-based payment is currently more ethically acceptable than fee-for-service in the context of China, mainly because it seems to lower financial barriers to access care. Nonetheless, it will be difficult to justify the implementation of case-based payment if no additional measures are taken to monitor and minimize its existing negative ethical implications. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Systems Thinking Tools for Improving Evidence-Based Practice: A Cross-Case Analysis of Two High School Leadership Teams

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kensler, Lisa A. W.; Reames, Ellen; Murray, John; Patrick, Lynne

2012-01-01

Teachers and administrators have access to large volumes of data but research suggests that they lack the skills to use data effectively for continuous school improvement. This study involved a cross-case analysis of two high school leadership teams' early stages of evidence-based practice development; differing forms of external support were…

A Corpus-Based Discourse Information Analysis of Chinese EFL Learners' Autonomy in Legal Case Brief Writing

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chen, Jinshi

2017-01-01

Legal case brief writing is pedagogically important yet insufficiently discussed for Chinese EFL learners majoring in law. Based on process genre approach and discourse information theory (DIT), the present study designs a corpus-based analytical model for Chinese EFL learners' autonomy in legal case brief writing and explores the process of case…

School Technology Leadership: Artifacts in Systems of Practice

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dexter, Sara

2011-01-01

A cross-case analysis of five case studies of team-based technology leadership in middle schools with laptop programs identifies systems of practice that organize teams' distributed leadership. These cases suggest that successfully implementing a complex improvement effort warrants a team-based leadership approach, especially for an improvement…

Interleukin 1 beta gene and risk of schizophrenia: detailed case-control and family-based studies and an updated meta-analysis.

PubMed

Shibuya, Masako; Watanabe, Yuichiro; Nunokawa, Ayako; Egawa, Jun; Kaneko, Naoshi; Igeta, Hirofumi; Someya, Toshiyuki

2014-01-01

Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) has been implicated in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. To assess whether the IL1B gene confers increased susceptibility to schizophrenia, we conducted case-control and family-based studies and an updated meta-analysis. We tested the association between IL1B and schizophrenia in 1229 case-control and 112 trio samples using 12 markers, including common tagging single nucleotide variations (SNVs) and a rare non-synonymous variation detected by resequencing the coding regions. We also performed a meta-analysis of rs16944 using a total of 8724 case-control and 201 trio samples from 16 independent populations. We found no significant associations between any of the 12 SNVs examined and schizophrenia in either case-control or trio samples. Moreover, our meta-analysis results showed no significant association between the common SNV, rs16944, and schizophrenia. The present study does not support a role for IL1B in schizophrenia susceptibility.

A Framework for Analysis of Case Studies of Reading Lessons

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carlisle, Joanne F.; Kelcey, Ben; Rosaen, Cheryl; Phelps, Geoffrey; Vereb, Anita

2013-01-01

This paper focuses on the development and study of a framework to provide direction and guidance for practicing teachers in using a web-based case studies program for professional development in early reading; the program is called Case Studies Reading Lessons (CSRL). The framework directs and guides teachers' analysis of reading instruction by…

A Cluster of Legionella-Associated Pneumonia Cases in a Population of Military Recruits

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-06-01

this cluster may suggest a previously unrecognized suscep- FIG. 1. Phylogenic analysis of the training center strain (represented by the MCRD consensus...military recruits during population- based surveillance for pneumonia pathogens. Results were confirmed by sequence analysis . Cases cluster tightly...17 April 2007 A Legionella cluster was identified through retrospective PCR analysis of 240 throat swab samples from X-ray-confirmed pneumonia cases

Rare variant association analysis in case-parents studies by allowing for missing parental genotypes.

PubMed

Li, Yumei; Xiang, Yang; Xu, Chao; Shen, Hui; Deng, Hongwen

2018-01-15

The development of next-generation sequencing technologies has facilitated the identification of rare variants. Family-based design is commonly used to effectively control for population admixture and substructure, which is more prominent for rare variants. Case-parents studies, as typical strategies in family-based design, are widely used in rare variant-disease association analysis. Current methods in case-parents studies are based on complete case-parents data; however, parental genotypes may be missing in case-parents trios, and removing these data may lead to a loss in statistical power. The present study focuses on testing for rare variant-disease association in case-parents study by allowing for missing parental genotypes. In this report, we extended the collapsing method for rare variant association analysis in case-parents studies to allow for missing parental genotypes, and investigated the performance of two methods by using the difference of genotypes between affected offspring and their corresponding "complements" in case-parent trios and TDT framework. Using simulations, we showed that, compared with the methods just only using complete case-parents data, the proposed strategy allowing for missing parental genotypes, or even adding unrelated affected individuals, can greatly improve the statistical power and meanwhile is not affected by population stratification. We conclude that adding case-parents data with missing parental genotypes to complete case-parents data set can greatly improve the power of our strategy for rare variant-disease association.

Complexity analysis of human physiological signals based on case studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Angelova, Maia; Holloway, Philip; Ellis, Jason

2015-04-01

This work focuses on methods for investigation of physiological time series based on complexity analysis. It is a part of a wider programme to determine non-invasive markers for healthy ageing. We consider two case studies investigated with actigraphy: (a) sleep and alternations with insomnia, and (b) ageing effects on mobility patterns. We illustrate, using these case studies, the application of fractal analysis to the investigation of regulation patterns and control, and change of physiological function. In the first case study, fractal analysis techniques were implemented to study the correlations present in sleep actigraphy for individuals suffering from acute insomnia in comparison with healthy controls. The aim was to investigate if complexity analysis can detect the onset of adverse health-related events. The subjects with acute insomnia displayed significantly higher levels of complexity, possibly a result of too much activity in the underlying regulatory systems. The second case study considered mobility patterns during night time and their variations with age. It showed that complexity metrics can identify change in physiological function with ageing. Both studies demonstrated that complexity analysis can be used to investigate markers of health, disease and healthy ageing.

Fuel Cycle Analysis Framework Base Cases for the IAEA/INPRO GAINS Collaborative Project

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

Brent Dixon

Thirteen countries participated in the Collaborative Project GAINS “Global Architecture of Innovative Nuclear Energy Systems Based on Thermal and Fast Reactors Including a Closed Fuel Cycle”, which was the primary activity within the IAEA/INPRO Program Area B: “Global Vision on Sustainable Nuclear Energy” for the last three years. The overall objective of GAINS was to develop a standard framework for assessing future nuclear energy systems taking into account sustainable development, and to validate results through sample analyses. This paper details the eight scenarios that constitute the GAINS framework base cases for analysis of the transition to future innovative nuclear energymore » systems. The framework base cases provide a reference for users of the framework to start from in developing and assessing their own alternate systems. Each base case is described along with performance results against the GAINS sustainability evaluation metrics. The eight cases include four using a moderate growth projection and four using a high growth projection for global nuclear electricity generation through 2100. The cases are divided into two sets, addressing homogeneous and heterogeneous scenarios developed by GAINS to model global fuel cycle strategies. The heterogeneous world scenario considers three separate nuclear groups based on their fuel cycle strategies, with non-synergistic and synergistic cases. The framework base case analyses results show the impact of these different fuel cycle strategies while providing references for future users of the GAINS framework. A large number of scenario alterations are possible and can be used to assess different strategies, different technologies, and different assumptions about possible futures of nuclear power. Results can be compared to the framework base cases to assess where these alternate cases perform differently versus the sustainability indicators.« less

[Postmortem CT examination in a case of alleged drowning--a case report].

PubMed

Woźniak, Krzysztof; Urbanik, Andrzej; Rzepecka-Woźniak, Ewa; Moskała, Artur; Kłys, Małgorzata

2009-01-01

The authors present an analysis of postmortem CT examination in a case of drowning in fresh water of a young male. Both the results of conventional forensic autopsy and radiologic examination have been compared. The analysis is illustrated by two-dimensional and three-dimensional reconstructions based on the DICOM files obtained during postmortem CT examination.

Single-Case Experimental Designs to Evaluate Novel Technology-Based Health Interventions

PubMed Central

Cassidy, Rachel N; Raiff, Bethany R

2013-01-01

Technology-based interventions to promote health are expanding rapidly. Assessing the preliminary efficacy of these interventions can be achieved by employing single-case experiments (sometimes referred to as n-of-1 studies). Although single-case experiments are often misunderstood, they offer excellent solutions to address the challenges associated with testing new technology-based interventions. This paper provides an introduction to single-case techniques and highlights advances in developing and evaluating single-case experiments, which help ensure that treatment outcomes are reliable, replicable, and generalizable. These advances include quality control standards, heuristics to guide visual analysis of time-series data, effect size calculations, and statistical analyses. They also include experimental designs to isolate the active elements in a treatment package and to assess the mechanisms of behavior change. The paper concludes with a discussion of issues related to the generality of findings derived from single-case research and how generality can be established through replication and through analysis of behavioral mechanisms. PMID:23399668

Synthesizing Single-Case Research to Identify Evidence-Based Practices: Some Brief Reflections

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Horner, Robert H.; Kratochwill, Thomas R.

2012-01-01

The purposes of this paper are to (a) propose an operational standard for defining a "practice," (b) encourage development of professional standards for visual and statistical analysis of single-case research, and (c) propose a standard for using single-case research results to identify practices that are "evidence-based." These topics are not new…

Extending 'Deep Blue' aerosol retrieval coverage to cases of absorbing aerosols above clouds: sensitivity analysis and first case studies

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

Sayer, Andrew M.; Hsu, C.; Bettenhausen, Corey

Cases of absorbing aerosols above clouds (AAC), such as smoke or mineral dust, are omitted from most routinely-processed space-based aerosol optical depth (AOD) data products, including those from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS). This study presents a sensitivity analysis and preliminary algorithm to retrieve above-cloud AOD and liquid cloud optical depth (COD) for AAC cases from MODIS or similar

Pneumafil casing blower through moving reference frame (MRF) - A CFD simulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manivel, R.; Vijayanandh, R.; Babin, T.; Sriram, G.

2018-05-01

In this analysis work, the ring frame of Pneumafil casing blower of the textile mills with a power rating of 5 kW have been simulated using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) code. The CFD analysis of the blower is carried out in Ansys Workbench 16.2 with Fluent using MRF solver settings. The simulation settings and boundary conditions are based on literature study and field data acquired. The main objective of this work is to reduce the energy consumption of the blower. The flow analysis indicated that the power consumption is influenced by the deflector plate orientation and deflector plate strip situated at the outlet casing of the blower. The energy losses occurred in the blower is due to the recirculation zones formed around the deflector plate strip. The deflector plate orientation is changed and optimized to reduce the energy consumption. The proposed optimized model is based on the simulation results which had relatively lesser power consumption than the existing and other cases. The energy losses in the Pneumafil casing blower are reduced through CFD analysis.

Case based reasoning in criminal intelligence using forensic case data.

PubMed

Ribaux, O; Margot, P

2003-01-01

A model that is based on the knowledge of experienced investigators in the analysis of serial crime is suggested to bridge a gap between technology and methodology. Its purpose is to provide a solid methodology for the analysis of serial crimes that supports decision making in the deployment of resources, either by guiding proactive policing operations or helping the investigative process. Formalisation has helped to derive a computerised system that efficiently supports the reasoning processes in the analysis of serial crime. This novel approach fully integrates forensic science data.

School Finance Litigation: The Use of Data Analysis.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Moskowitz, Jay; Sherman, Joel

School finance cases are relying increasingly on data analysis to show inequities. Such cases are based on the assumption that some state school finance systems are failing to achieve fiscal and educational equality. Data analysis can be used to show such things as the use of wealth as the primary determinant of a certain school district's…

An Exploratory Analysis of Projected Navy Officer Inventory Strength Using Data Farming

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-09-01

model’s run-time. 3. Base Case In addition to the experimental design, this study includes a base case scenario to serve as a baseline for comparison...47 3. SWO Operating Strength Deviation-Base Case One objective of this study is to determine the risk in operating strength deviation presented by...ANSWERS TO RESEARCH QUESTIONS ................................... 71  B.  RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FUTURE STUDIES ......................... 73  1.  Continuous

Coupled rotor/airframe vibration analysis program manual. Volume 2: Sample input and output listings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cassarino, S.; Sopher, R.

1982-01-01

Sample input and output listings obtained with the base program (SIMVIB) of the coupled rotor/airframe vibration analysis and the external programs, G400/F389 and E927 are presented. Results for five of the base program test cases are shown. They represent different applications of the SIMVIB program to study the vibration characteristics of various dynamic configurations. Input and output listings obtained for one cycle of the G400/F389 coupled program are presented. Results from the rotor aeroelastic analysis E927 also appear. A brief description of the check cases is provided. A summary of the check cases for all the external programs interacting with the SIMVIB program is illustrated.

Improved fourth-year medical student clinical decision-making performance as a resuscitation team leader after a simulation-based curriculum.

PubMed

Ten Eyck, Raymond P; Tews, Matthew; Ballester, John M; Hamilton, Glenn C

2010-06-01

To determine the impact of simulation-based instruction on student performance in the role of emergency department resuscitation team leader. A randomized, single-blinded, controlled study using an intention to treat analysis. Eighty-three fourth-year medical students enrolled in an emergency medicine clerkship were randomly allocated to two groups differing only by instructional format. Each student individually completed an initial simulation case, followed by a standardized curriculum of eight cases in either group simulation or case-based group discussion format before a second individual simulation case. A remote coinvestigator measured eight objective performance end points using digital recordings of all individual simulation cases. McNemar chi2, Pearson correlation, repeated measures multivariate analysis of variance, and follow-up analysis of variance were used for statistical evaluation. Sixty-eight students (82%) completed both initial and follow-up individual simulations. Eight students were lost from the simulation group and seven from the discussion group. The mean postintervention case performance was significantly better for the students allocated to simulation instruction compared with the group discussion students for four outcomes including a decrease in mean time to (1) order an intravenous line; (2) initiate cardiac monitoring; (3) order initial laboratory tests; and (4) initiate blood pressure monitoring. Paired comparisons of each student's initial and follow-up simulations demonstrated significant improvement in the same four areas, in mean time to order an abdominal radiograph and in obtaining an allergy history. A single simulation-based teaching session significantly improved student performance as a team leader. Additional simulation sessions provided further improvement compared with instruction provided in case-based group discussion format.

Base Case v.5.15 Documentation Supplement to Support the Clean Power Plan

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Learn about several modeling assumptions used as part of EPA's analysis of the Clean Power Plan (Carbon Pollution Guidelines for Existing Electric Generating Units) using the EPA v.5.15 Base Case using Integrated Planning Model (IPM).

A balanced perspective: using nonfinancial measures to assess financial performance.

PubMed

Watkins, Ann L

2003-11-01

Assessments of hospitals' financial performance have traditionally been based exclusively on analysis of a concise set of key financial ratios. One study, however, demonstrates that analysis of a hospital's financial condition can be significantly enhanced with the addition of several nonfinancial measures, including case-mix adjusted admissions, case-mix adjusted admissions per full-time equivalent, and case-mix adjusted admissions per beds in service.

Combining knowledge discovery from databases (KDD) and case-based reasoning (CBR) to support diagnosis of medical images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stranieri, Andrew; Yearwood, John; Pham, Binh

1999-07-01

The development of data warehouses for the storage and analysis of very large corpora of medical image data represents a significant trend in health care and research. Amongst other benefits, the trend toward warehousing enables the use of techniques for automatically discovering knowledge from large and distributed databases. In this paper, we present an application design for knowledge discovery from databases (KDD) techniques that enhance the performance of the problem solving strategy known as case- based reasoning (CBR) for the diagnosis of radiological images. The problem of diagnosing the abnormality of the cervical spine is used to illustrate the method. The design of a case-based medical image diagnostic support system has three essential characteristics. The first is a case representation that comprises textual descriptions of the image, visual features that are known to be useful for indexing images, and additional visual features to be discovered by data mining many existing images. The second characteristic of the approach presented here involves the development of a case base that comprises an optimal number and distribution of cases. The third characteristic involves the automatic discovery, using KDD techniques, of adaptation knowledge to enhance the performance of the case based reasoner. Together, the three characteristics of our approach can overcome real time efficiency obstacles that otherwise mitigate against the use of CBR to the domain of medical image analysis.

Context for Communication: Teaching Expertise through Case-Based In-Basket Exercises.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stearns, James M.; Ronald, Kate; Greenlee, Timothy B.; Crespy, Charles T.

2003-01-01

Case-based in-basket exercises require students to master content as well as communicate knowledge to professional audiences. The combination of specialized content knowledge and analysis of communication contexts helps develop expertise. (Contains 23 references and an in-basket example.) (SK)

Deep Borehole Disposal Safety Analysis.

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

Freeze, Geoffrey A.; Stein, Emily; Price, Laura L.

This report presents a preliminary safety analysis for the deep borehole disposal (DBD) concept, using a safety case framework. A safety case is an integrated collection of qualitative and quantitative arguments, evidence, and analyses that substantiate the safety, and the level of confidence in the safety, of a geologic repository. This safety case framework for DBD follows the outline of the elements of a safety case, and identifies the types of information that will be required to satisfy these elements. At this very preliminary phase of development, the DBD safety case focuses on the generic feasibility of the DBD concept.more » It is based on potential system designs, waste forms, engineering, and geologic conditions; however, no specific site or regulatory framework exists. It will progress to a site-specific safety case as the DBD concept advances into a site-specific phase, progressing through consent-based site selection and site investigation and characterization.« less

Analysis of case-only studies accounting for genotyping error.

PubMed

Cheng, K F

2007-03-01

The case-only design provides one approach to assess possible interactions between genetic and environmental factors. It has been shown that if these factors are conditionally independent, then a case-only analysis is not only valid but also very efficient. However, a drawback of the case-only approach is that its conclusions may be biased by genotyping errors. In this paper, our main aim is to propose a method for analysis of case-only studies when these errors occur. We show that the bias can be adjusted through the use of internal validation data, which are obtained by genotyping some sampled individuals twice. Our analysis is based on a simple and yet highly efficient conditional likelihood approach. Simulation studies considered in this paper confirm that the new method has acceptable performance under genotyping errors.

Case Selection via Matching

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nielsen, Richard A.

2016-01-01

This article shows how statistical matching methods can be used to select "most similar" cases for qualitative analysis. I first offer a methodological justification for research designs based on selecting most similar cases. I then discuss the applicability of existing matching methods to the task of selecting most similar cases and…

On the Analysis of Case-Control Studies in Cluster-correlated Data Settings.

PubMed

Haneuse, Sebastien; Rivera-Rodriguez, Claudia

2018-01-01

In resource-limited settings, long-term evaluation of national antiretroviral treatment (ART) programs often relies on aggregated data, the analysis of which may be subject to ecological bias. As researchers and policy makers consider evaluating individual-level outcomes such as treatment adherence or mortality, the well-known case-control design is appealing in that it provides efficiency gains over random sampling. In the context that motivates this article, valid estimation and inference requires acknowledging any clustering, although, to our knowledge, no statistical methods have been published for the analysis of case-control data for which the underlying population exhibits clustering. Furthermore, in the specific context of an ongoing collaboration in Malawi, rather than performing case-control sampling across all clinics, case-control sampling within clinics has been suggested as a more practical strategy. To our knowledge, although similar outcome-dependent sampling schemes have been described in the literature, a case-control design specific to correlated data settings is new. In this article, we describe this design, discuss balanced versus unbalanced sampling techniques, and provide a general approach to analyzing case-control studies in cluster-correlated settings based on inverse probability-weighted generalized estimating equations. Inference is based on a robust sandwich estimator with correlation parameters estimated to ensure appropriate accounting of the outcome-dependent sampling scheme. We conduct comprehensive simulations, based in part on real data on a sample of N = 78,155 program registrants in Malawi between 2005 and 2007, to evaluate small-sample operating characteristics and potential trade-offs associated with standard case-control sampling or when case-control sampling is performed within clusters.

Supply Chain Sustainability Analysis of Whole Algae Hydrothermal Liquefaction and Upgrading

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

Pegallapati, Ambica Koushik; Dunn, Jennifer B.; Frank, Edward D.

2015-04-01

The Department of Energy's Bioenergy Technology Office (BETO) collaborates with a wide range of institutions towards the development and deployment of biofuels and bioproducts. To facilitate this effort, BETO and its partner national laboratories develop detailed techno-economic assessments (TEA) of biofuel production technologies as part of the development of design cases and state of technology (SOT) analyses. A design case is a TEA that outlines a target case for a particular biofuel pathway. It enables preliminary identification of data gaps and research and development needs and provides goals and targets against which technology progress is assessed. On the other hand,more » an SOT analysis assesses progress within and across relevant technology areas based on actual experimental results relative to technical targets and cost goals from design cases and includes technical, economic, and environmental criteria as available. (SOT) analyses. A design case is a TEA that outlines a target case for a particular biofuel pathway. It enables preliminary identification of data gaps and research and development needs and provides goals and targets against which technology progress is assessed. On the other hand, an SOT analysis assesses progress within and across relevant technology areas based on actual experimental results relative to technical targets and cost goals from design cases and includes technical, economic, and environmental criteria as available. (SOT) analyses. A design case is a TEA that outlines a target case for a particular biofuel pathway. It enables preliminary identification of data gaps and research and development needs and provides goals and targets against which technology progress is assessed. On the other hand, an SOT analysis assesses progress within and across relevant technology areas based on actual experimental results relative to technical targets and cost goals from design cases and includes technical, economic, and environmental criteria as available.« less

WE-DE-201-04: Cross Validation of Knowledge-Based Treatment Planning for Prostate LDR Brachytherapy Using Principle Component Analysis

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

Roper, J; Ghavidel, B; Godette, K

Purpose: To validate a knowledge-based algorithm for prostate LDR brachytherapy treatment planning. Methods: A dataset of 100 cases was compiled from an active prostate seed implant service. Cases were randomized into 10 subsets. For each subset, the 90 remaining library cases were registered to a common reference frame and then characterized on a point by point basis using principle component analysis (PCA). Each test case was converted to PCA vectors using the same process and compared with each library case using a Mahalanobis distance to evaluate similarity. Rank order PCA scores were used to select the best-matched library case. Themore » seed arrangement was extracted from the best-matched case and used as a starting point for planning the test case. Any subsequent modifications were recorded that required input from a treatment planner to achieve V100>95%, V150<60%, V200<20%. To simulate operating-room planning constraints, seed activity was held constant, and the seed count could not increase. Results: The computational time required to register test-case contours and evaluate PCA similarity across the library was 10s. Preliminary analysis of 2 subsets shows that 9 of 20 test cases did not require any seed modifications to obtain an acceptable plan. Five test cases required fewer than 10 seed modifications or a grid shift. Another 5 test cases required approximately 20 seed modifications. An acceptable plan was not achieved for 1 outlier, which was substantially larger than its best match. Modifications took between 5s and 6min. Conclusion: A knowledge-based treatment planning algorithm for prostate LDR brachytherapy is being cross validated using 100 prior cases. Preliminary results suggest that for this size library, acceptable plans can be achieved without planner input in about half of the cases while varying amounts of planner input are needed in remaining cases. Computational time and planning time are compatible with clinical practice.« less

Is probabilistic bias analysis approximately Bayesian?

PubMed Central

MacLehose, Richard F.; Gustafson, Paul

2011-01-01

Case-control studies are particularly susceptible to differential exposure misclassification when exposure status is determined following incident case status. Probabilistic bias analysis methods have been developed as ways to adjust standard effect estimates based on the sensitivity and specificity of exposure misclassification. The iterative sampling method advocated in probabilistic bias analysis bears a distinct resemblance to a Bayesian adjustment; however, it is not identical. Furthermore, without a formal theoretical framework (Bayesian or frequentist), the results of a probabilistic bias analysis remain somewhat difficult to interpret. We describe, both theoretically and empirically, the extent to which probabilistic bias analysis can be viewed as approximately Bayesian. While the differences between probabilistic bias analysis and Bayesian approaches to misclassification can be substantial, these situations often involve unrealistic prior specifications and are relatively easy to detect. Outside of these special cases, probabilistic bias analysis and Bayesian approaches to exposure misclassification in case-control studies appear to perform equally well. PMID:22157311

Art, Meet Chemistry; Chemistry, Meet Art: Case Studies, Current Literature, and Instrumental Methods Combined to Create a Hands-On Experience for Nonmajors and Instrumental Analysis Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nivens, Delana A.; Padgett, Clifford W.; Chase, Jeffery M.; Verges, Katie J.; Jamieson, Deborah S.

2010-01-01

Case studies and current literature are combined with spectroscopic analysis to provide a unique chemistry experience for art history students and to provide a unique inquiry-based laboratory experiment for analytical chemistry students. The XRF analysis method was used to demonstrate to nonscience majors (art history students) a powerful…

Natural Learning Case Study Archives

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lawler, Robert W.

2015-01-01

Natural Learning Case Study Archives (NLCSA) is a research facility for those interested in using case study analysis to deepen their understanding of common sense knowledge and natural learning (how the mind interacts with everyday experiences to develop common sense knowledge). The database comprises three case study corpora based on experiences…

An exchange format for use-cases of hospital information systems.

PubMed

Masuda, G; Sakamoto, N; Sakai, R; Yamamoto, R

2001-01-01

Object-oriented software development is a powerful methodology for development of large hospital information systems. We think use-case driven approach is particularly useful for the development. In the use-cases driven approach, use-cases are documented at the first stage in the software development process and they are used through the whole steps in a variety of ways. Therefore, it is important to exchange and share the use-cases and make effective use of them through the overall lifecycle of a development process. In this paper, we propose a method of sharing and exchanging use-case models between applications, developers, and projects. We design an XML based exchange format for use-cases. We then discuss an application of the exchange format to support several software development activities. We preliminarily implemented a support system for object-oriented analysis based on the exchange format. The result shows that using the structural and semantic information in the exchange format enables the support system to assist the object-oriented analysis successfully.

Toward a Survivability/Lethality Analysis Directorate (SLAD) Methodology for Conducting System of Systems Analysis (SoSA)

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-06-01

alternative technologies early in the product life cycle. Use case 3 reflects SLAD’s response to changes in the way the Army acquires technical...development on the one hand, and to systems evaluated for production and deployment on the other. Together, these three use cases provide the Army...Package E x a m p le P ro b le m Mission based SLVA of networked-enabled small units subject to one or more threats. Mission based early

Environmental and cost life cycle assessment of disinfection options for municipal wastewater treatment

EPA Science Inventory

This document summarizes the data collection, analysis, and results for a base case wastewater treatment (WWT) plant reference model. The base case is modeled after the Metropolitan Sewer District of Greater Cincinnati (MSDGC) Mill Creek Plant. The plant has an activated sludge s...

Application of an improved Nelson-Nguyen analysis to eccentric, arbitrary profile liquid annular seals

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Padavala, Satyasrinivas; Palazzolo, Alan B.; Vallely, Pat; Ryan, Steve

1994-01-01

An improved dynamic analysis for liquid annular seals with arbitrary profile based on a method, first proposed by Nelson and Nguyen, is presented. An improved first order solution that incorporates a continuous interpolation of perturbed quantities in the circumferential direction, is presented. The original method uses an approximation scheme for circumferential gradients, based on Fast Fourier Transforms (FFT). A simpler scheme based on cubic splines is found to be computationally more efficient with better convergence at higher eccentricities. A new approach of computing dynamic coefficients based on external specified load is introduced. This improved analysis is extended to account for arbitrarily varying seal profile in both axial and circumferential directions. An example case of an elliptical seal with varying degrees of axial curvature is analyzed. A case study based on actual operating clearances of an interstage seal of the Space Shuttle Main Engine High Pressure Oxygen Turbopump is presented.

Signal Analysis of Automotive Engine Spark Ignition System using Case-Based Reasoning (CBR) and Case-based Maintenance (CBM)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, H.; Vong, C. M.; Wong, P. K.

2010-05-01

With the development of modern technology, modern vehicles adopt electronic control system for injection and ignition. In traditional way, whenever there is any malfunctioning in an automotive engine, an automotive mechanic usually performs a diagnosis in the ignition system of the engine to check any exceptional symptoms. In this paper, we present a case-based reasoning (CBR) approach to help solve human diagnosis problem. Nevertheless, one drawback of CBR system is that the case library will be expanded gradually after repeatedly running the system, which may cause inaccuracy and longer time for the CBR retrieval. To tackle this problem, case-based maintenance (CBM) framework is employed so that the case library of the CBR system will be compressed by clustering to produce a set of representative cases. As a result, the performance (in retrieval accuracy and time) of the whole CBR system can be improved.

Organizing and delivering case management services: lessons from the National Long Term Care Channeling Demonstration.

PubMed

Christianson, J B; Applebaum, R; Carcagno, G; Phillips, B

1988-01-01

This article discusses issues relating to the design and internal administration of a case-management agency for community based home care for the elderly. Included in the article are issues relating to screening procedures, assessment and case management activities, cost controls, automated management information systems, and personnel matters. The analysis is based on the experience of the National Long Term Care Demonstration ("Channeling") which established and evaluated ten case management projects nationwide under federal funding.

A Cross-Case Analysis of Three Social Justice-Oriented Education Programs

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rodriguez, Mariela A.; Chambers, Terah Venzant; Gonzalez, Maria Luisa; Scheurich, James Joseph

2010-01-01

This cross-case analysis was based on three main questions that addressed three social justice-oriented education programs. The three questions were: 1) What critical elements underlie programs that prepare professionals for social justice? 2) What can we learn from these programs in support of educational-leadership programs whose aim is to…

Technique for ranking potential predictor layers for use in remote sensing analysis

Treesearch

Andrew Lister; Mike Hoppus; Rachel Riemann

2004-01-01

Spatial modeling using GIS-based predictor layers often requires that extraneous predictors be culled before conducting analysis. In some cases, using extraneous predictor layers might improve model accuracy but at the expense of increasing complexity and interpretability. In other cases, using extraneous layers can dilute the relationship between predictors and target...

A Comparison of Mean Phase Difference and Generalized Least Squares for Analyzing Single-Case Data

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Manolov, Rumen; Solanas, Antonio

2013-01-01

The present study focuses on single-case data analysis specifically on two procedures for quantifying differences between baseline and treatment measurements. The first technique tested is based on generalized least square regression analysis and is compared to a proposed non-regression technique, which allows obtaining similar information. The…

Knowledge acquisition for case-based reasoning systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Riesbeck, Christopher K.

1988-01-01

Case-based reasoning (CBR) is a simple idea: solve new problems by adapting old solutions to similar problems. The CBR approach offers several potential advantages over rule-based reasoning: rules are not combined blindly in a search for solutions, solutions can be explained in terms of concrete examples, and performance can improve automatically as new problems are solved and added to the case library. Moving CBR for the university research environment to the real world requires smooth interfaces for getting knowledge from experts. Described are the basic elements of an interface for acquiring three basic bodies of knowledge that any case-based reasoner requires: the case library of problems and their solutions, the analysis rules that flesh out input problem specifications so that relevant cases can be retrieved, and the adaptation rules that adjust old solutions to fit new problems.

Combining matched and unmatched control groups in case-control studies.

PubMed

le Cessie, Saskia; Nagelkerke, Nico; Rosendaal, Frits R; van Stralen, Karlijn J; Pomp, Elisabeth R; van Houwelingen, Hans C

2008-11-15

Multiple control groups in case-control studies are used to control for different sources of confounding. For example, cases can be contrasted with matched controls to adjust for multiple genetic or unknown lifestyle factors and simultaneously contrasted with an unmatched population-based control group. Inclusion of different control groups for a single exposure analysis yields several estimates of the odds ratio, all using only part of the data. Here the authors introduce an easy way to combine odds ratios from several case-control analyses with the same cases. The approach is based upon methods used for meta-analysis but takes into account the fact that the same cases are used and that the estimated odds ratios are therefore correlated. Two ways of estimating this correlation are discussed: sandwich methodology and the bootstrap. Confidence intervals for the pooled estimates and a test for checking whether the odds ratios in the separate case-control studies differ significantly are derived. The performance of the method is studied by simulation and by applying the methods to a large study on risk factors for thrombosis, the MEGA Study (1999-2004), wherein cases with first venous thrombosis were included with a matched control group of partners and an unmatched population-based control group.

Wind Turbine Control Design to Reduce Capital Costs: 7 January 2009 - 31 August 2009

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

Darrow, P. J.

2010-01-01

This report first discusses and identifies which wind turbine components can benefit from advanced control algorithms and also presents results from a preliminary loads case analysis using a baseline controller. Next, it describes the design, implementation, and simulation-based testing of an advanced controller to reduce loads on those components. The case-by-case loads analysis and advanced controller design will help guide future control research.

Birth Weight and Acute Childhood Leukemia: A Meta-analysis of Observational Studies

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-03-22

22 MAR 2005 2. REPORT TYPE 3. DATES COVERED - 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE Birth Weight and Acute Childhood Leukemia: A Meta - analysis of Observational...and to quantify the strength of the relationships. We conducted a meta - analysis of nine case-control studies (published between 1991 and 2004...Based on a meta - analysis of only three case-control studies (published between 1997 and 2004) involving over 700 children with AML and over 1,900

[Forensic Analysis of 20 Dead Cases Related to Heroin Abuse].

PubMed

Huang, W Q; Li, L H; Li, Z; Hong, S J

2016-08-01

To perform retrospective analysis on 20 dead cases related to heroin abuse, and to provide references for the forensic assessment of correlative cases. Among 20 dead cases related to heroin abuse, general situation, using method of drug, cause of death and result of forensic examination were analyzed by statistical analysis for summarizing the cause of death and pathologic changes. The dead were mostly young adults, with more male than female. The results of histopathological examinations showed non-specific pathological changes. There were four leading causes of death, including acute poisoning of heroin abuse or leakage （13 cases, 65%）, concurrent diseases caused by heroin abuse （3 cases, 15%）, inspiratory asphyxia caused by taking heroin （2 cases, 10%）, and heroin withdrawal syndrome （2 cases, 10%）. The forensic identification on dead related to heroin abuse must base on the comprehensive autopsy, and combine with the qualitative and quantitative analysis of heroin and its metabolites in death and the case information, as well as the scene investigation. Copyright© by the Editorial Department of Journal of Forensic Medicine

[Hierarchical regionalization for spatial epidemiology: a case study of thyroid cancer incidence in Yiwu, Zhejiang].

PubMed

Teng, Shizhu; Jia, Qiaojuan; Huang, Yijian; Chen, Liangcao; Fei, Xufeng; Wu, Jiaping

2015-10-01

Sporadic cases occurring in mall geographic unit could lead to extreme value of incidence due to the small population bases, which would influence the analysis of actual incidence. This study introduced a method of hierarchy clustering and partitioning regionalization, which integrates areas with small population into larger areas with enough population by using Geographic Information System (GIS) based on the principles of spatial continuity and geographical similarity (homogeneity test). This method was applied in spatial epidemiology by using a data set of thyroid cancer incidence in Yiwu, Zhejiang province, between 2010 and 2013. Thyroid cancer incidence data were more reliable and stable in the new regionalized areas. Hotspot analysis (Getis-Ord) on the incidence in new areas indicated that there was obvious case clustering in the central area of Yiwu. This method can effectively solve the problem of small population base in small geographic units in spatial epidemiological analysis of thyroid cancer incidence and can be used for other diseases and in other areas.

[Application of case-based learning in clinical internship teaching of conservative dentistry and endodontics].

PubMed

Liu, Sheng-bo; Peng, Bin; Song, Ya-ling; Xu, Qing-an

2013-12-01

To investigate the education effect of case-based learning (CBL) pattern on clinical internship of conservative dentistry and endodontics. Forty-one undergraduates were randomly assigned into CBL group and traditional teaching group. After clinical internship in the department of conservative dentistry and endodontics for 11 weeks, each student in the 2 groups underwent comprehensive examinations including medical record writing, case analysis, academic knowledge, professional skills and the ability of winning the trust of the patients. The scores were compared between the 2 groups using SPSS 13.0 software package. There was no significant difference between the 2 groups with regard to the scores of academic knowledge and profession skills (P>0.05). However, the results of medical record writing, case analysis and the ability of winning the trust of the patients showed significant difference between the 2 groups(P<0.05). Proper application of CBL in clinical internship of conservative dentistry and endodontics contributes to improve students' ability of clinical thinking, synthetical analysis and adaptability to different patients.

A Step-by-Step Design Methodology for a Base Case Vanadium Redox-Flow Battery

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Moore, Mark; Counce, Robert M.; Watson, Jack S.; Zawodzinski, Thomas A.; Kamath, Haresh

2012-01-01

The purpose of this work is to develop an evolutionary procedure to be used by Chemical Engineering students for the base-case design of a Vanadium Redox-Flow Battery. The design methodology is based on the work of Douglas (1985) and provides a profitability analysis at each decision level so that more profitable alternatives and directions can be…

Port Security Strategy 2012

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-06-15

the base -case, a series analysis can be performed by varying the various inputs to the network to examine the impact of potential changes to improve...successfully interrogated was the primary MOE. • Based solely on the cost benefit analysis , the RSTG found that the addition of an Unmanned Surface...cargo. The CBP uses a risk based analysis and intelligence to pre-screen, assess and examine 100% of suspicious containers. The remaining cargo is

Participation in Science Practices while Working in a Multimedia Case-Based Environment

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kang, Hosun; Lundeberg, Mary A.

2010-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate how two female students participated in science practices as they worked in a multimedia case-based environment: interpreting simulated results, reading and writing multiple texts, role-playing, and Internet conferencing. Using discourse analysis, the following data were analyzed: students' published…

Prolonged labour as indication for emergency caesarean section: a quality assurance analysis by criterion-based audit at two Tanzanian rural hospitals.

PubMed

Maaløe, N; Sorensen, B L; Onesmo, R; Secher, N J; Bygbjerg, I C

2012-04-01

To audit the quality of obstetric management preceding emergency caesarean sections for prolonged labour. A quality assurance analysis of a retrospective criterion-based audit supplemented by in-depth interviews with hospital staff. Two Tanzanian rural mission hospitals. Audit of 144 cases of women undergoing caesarean sections for prolonged labour; in addition, eight staff members were interviewed. Criteria of realistic best practice were established, and the case files were audited and compared with these. Hospital staff were interviewed about what they felt might be the causes for the audit findings. Prevalence of suboptimal management and themes emerging from an analysis of the transcripts. Suboptimal management was identified in most cases. Non-invasive interventions to potentially avoid operative delivery were inadequately used. When deciding on caesarean section, in 26% of the cases labour was not prolonged, and in 16% the membranes were still intact. Of the women with genuine prolonged labour, caesarean sections were performed with a fully dilated cervix in 36% of the cases. Vacuum extraction was not considered. Amongst the hospital staff interviewed, the awareness of evidence-based guidelines was poor. Word of mouth, personal experience, and fear, especially of HIV transmission, influenced management decisions. The lack of use and awareness of evidence-based guidelines led to misinterpretation of clinical signs, fear of simple interventions, and an excessive rate of emergency caesarean sections. © 2012 The Authors BJOG An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology © 2012 RCOG.

Improvement of Coordination in the Multi-National Military Coordination Center of the Nepal Army in Respond to Disasters

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-06-09

primary question. This thesis has used the case study research methodology with Capability-Based Assessment (CBA) approach. My engagement in this...protected by more restrictions in their home countries, in which case further publication or sale of copyrighted images is not permissible...effective coordinating mechanism. The research follows the case study method utilizing the Capability Based Analysis (CBA) approach to scrutinize the

An Investigation of GeoBase Mission Data Set Design, Implementation, and Usage Within Air Force Civil Engineer Electrical and Utilities Work Centers

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-03-01

ethnography , grounded theory , phenomenological , case study , and content analysis. As ethnography is based upon a longitudinal study in...a qualitative methodology consisting of a case study strategy is warranted for this research project. Yin (2003) lists five components of research ...systems. Journal of End User Computing, 12(3), 14. Yin, R. K. (2003). Case Study Research : Design and

Crime on Campus: Institutional Tort Liability for the Criminal Acts of Third Parties.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Raddatz, Anita

To aid colleges and universities in protecting students and other potential victims of crime, a general analysis of the pertinent case law concerning institutional tort liability for campus crime is provided. The analysis of case law explains that lawsuits are usually based on the theory of negligence. Negligence consists of four elements: duty;…

A Unifying Framework for Causal Analysis in Set-Theoretic Multimethod Research

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rohlfing, Ingo; Schneider, Carsten Q.

2018-01-01

The combination of Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) with process tracing, which we call set-theoretic multimethod research (MMR), is steadily becoming more popular in empirical research. Despite the fact that both methods have an elected affinity based on set theory, it is not obvious how a within-case method operating in a single case and a…

Delphi in Criminal Justice Policy: A Case Study on Judgmental Forecasting

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Loyens, Kim; Maesschalck, Jeroen; Bouckaert, Geert

2011-01-01

This article provides an in-depth case study analysis of a pilot project organized by the section "Strategic Analysis" of the Belgian Federal Police. Using the Delphi method, which is a judgmental forecasting technique, a panel of experts was questioned about future developments of crime, based on their expertise in criminal or social…

In Search of a Time Efficient Approach to Crack and Delamination Growth Predictions in Composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Krueger, Ronald; Carvalho, Nelson

2016-01-01

Analysis benchmarking was used to assess the accuracy and time efficiency of algorithms suitable for automated delamination growth analysis. First, the Floating Node Method (FNM) was introduced and its combination with a simple exponential growth law (Paris Law) and Virtual Crack Closure technique (VCCT) was discussed. Implementation of the method into a user element (UEL) in Abaqus/Standard(Registered TradeMark) was also presented. For the assessment of growth prediction capabilities, an existing benchmark case based on the Double Cantilever Beam (DCB) specimen was briefly summarized. Additionally, the development of new benchmark cases based on the Mixed-Mode Bending (MMB) specimen to assess the growth prediction capabilities under mixed-mode I/II conditions was discussed in detail. A comparison was presented, in which the benchmark cases were used to assess the existing low-cycle fatigue analysis tool in Abaqus/Standard(Registered TradeMark) in comparison to the FNM-VCCT fatigue growth analysis implementation. The low-cycle fatigue analysis tool in Abaqus/Standard(Registered TradeMark) was able to yield results that were in good agreement with the DCB benchmark example. Results for the MMB benchmark cases, however, only captured the trend correctly. The user element (FNM-VCCT) always yielded results that were in excellent agreement with all benchmark cases, at a fraction of the analysis time. The ability to assess the implementation of two methods in one finite element code illustrated the value of establishing benchmark solutions.

Red and processed meat consumption and risk of glioma in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies

PubMed Central

Saneei, Parvane; Willett, Walter; Esmaillzadeh, Ahmad

2015-01-01

Background: These findings from several observational studies, investigated the association between red meat consumption and gliomas, were inconsistent. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies to summarize available date on the relation between meat intake and risk of glioma. Materials and Methods: A systematic literature search of relevant reports published until May 2014 of the PubMed/Medline, ISI Web of Knowledge, Excerpta Medica database, Ovid database, Google Scholar, and Scopus databases was conducted. From 723 articles yielded in the preliminary literature search, data from eighteen publications (14 case-control, three cohort, and one nested case-control study) on unprocessed red meat, processed meat, and/or total red meat consumption in relation to glioma in adults were included in the analysis. Quality assessment of studies was performed. Random effects model was used to conduct the meta-analysis. Results: We found a positive significant association between unprocessed red meat intake and risk of glioma (relative risk [RR] = 1.30; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.08-1.58) after excluding three studies with uncertain type of brain cancer. This analysis included only one cohort study which revealed no relation between unprocessed red meat intake and glioma (RR = 1.75; 95% CI: 0.35-8.77). Consumption of processed meats was not related to increased risk of glioma in population-based case-control studies (RR = 1.26; 95% CI: 1.05-1.51) and reduced risk in hospital-based case-controls (RR = 0.79; 95% CI: 0.65-0.97). No significant association was seen between processed red meat intake and risk of glioma in cohort studies (RR: 1.08; 95% CI: 0.84-1.37). Total red meat consumption was not associated with risk of adult glioma in case-control or cohort studies. Conclusion: In this meta-analysis of 18 observational studies, we found a modest positive association between unprocessed red meat intake and risk of gliomas based almost entirely on case-control studies. Processed red meat was overall not associated with risk of gliomas in case-control or cohort studies. PMID:26600837

Web-Based Tools for Modelling and Analysis of Multivariate Data: California Ozone Pollution Activity

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dinov, Ivo D.; Christou, Nicolas

2011-01-01

This article presents a hands-on web-based activity motivated by the relation between human health and ozone pollution in California. This case study is based on multivariate data collected monthly at 20 locations in California between 1980 and 2006. Several strategies and tools for data interrogation and exploratory data analysis, model fitting…

Bayesian analysis of time-series data under case-crossover designs: posterior equivalence and inference.

PubMed

Li, Shi; Mukherjee, Bhramar; Batterman, Stuart; Ghosh, Malay

2013-12-01

Case-crossover designs are widely used to study short-term exposure effects on the risk of acute adverse health events. While the frequentist literature on this topic is vast, there is no Bayesian work in this general area. The contribution of this paper is twofold. First, the paper establishes Bayesian equivalence results that require characterization of the set of priors under which the posterior distributions of the risk ratio parameters based on a case-crossover and time-series analysis are identical. Second, the paper studies inferential issues under case-crossover designs in a Bayesian framework. Traditionally, a conditional logistic regression is used for inference on risk-ratio parameters in case-crossover studies. We consider instead a more general full likelihood-based approach which makes less restrictive assumptions on the risk functions. Formulation of a full likelihood leads to growth in the number of parameters proportional to the sample size. We propose a semi-parametric Bayesian approach using a Dirichlet process prior to handle the random nuisance parameters that appear in a full likelihood formulation. We carry out a simulation study to compare the Bayesian methods based on full and conditional likelihood with the standard frequentist approaches for case-crossover and time-series analysis. The proposed methods are illustrated through the Detroit Asthma Morbidity, Air Quality and Traffic study, which examines the association between acute asthma risk and ambient air pollutant concentrations. © 2013, The International Biometric Society.

Leadership and governance of community health worker programmes at scale: a cross case analysis of provincial implementation in South Africa.

PubMed

Schneider, Helen; Nxumalo, Nonhlanhla

2017-09-15

National community health worker (CHW) programmes are returning to favour as an integral part of primary health care systems, often on the back of pre-existing community based initiatives. There are significant challenges to the integration and support of such programmes, and they require coordination and stewardship at all levels of the health system. This paper explores the leadership and governance tasks of large-scale CHW programmes at sub-national level, through the case of national reforms to South Africa's community based sector, referred to as the Ward Based Outreach Team (WBOT) strategy. A cross case analysis of leadership and governance roles, drawing on three case studies of adoption and implementation of the WBOTs strategy at provincial level (Western Cape, North West and Gauteng) was conducted. The primary case studies mapped system components and assessed implementation processes and contexts. They involved teams of researchers and over 200 interviews with stakeholders from senior to frontline, document reviews and analyses of routine data. The secondary, cross case analysis specifically focused on the issues and challenges facing, and strategies adopted by provincial and district policy makers and managers, as they engaged with the new national mandate. From this key sub-national leadership and governance roles were formulated. Four key roles are identified and discussed: 1. Negotiating a fit between national mandates and provincial and district histories and strategies of community based services 2. Defining new organisational and accountability relationships between CHWs, local health services, communities and NGOs 3. Revising and developing new aligned and integrated planning, human resource, financing and information systems 4. Leading change by building new collective visions, mobilising political, including budgetary, support and designing implementation strategies. This analysis, from real-life systems, adds to understanding of the processes involved in developing CHW programmes at scale, and specifically the negotiated and multilevel nature of leadership and governance in such programmes, spanning analytic, managerial, technical and political roles.

A needs analysis method for land-use planning of illegal dumping sites: a case study in Aomori-Iwate, Japan.

PubMed

Ishii, Kazuei; Furuichi, Toru; Nagao, Yukari

2013-02-01

Land use at contaminated sites, following remediation, is often needed for regional redevelopment. However, there exist few methods of developing economically and socially feasible land-use plans based on regional needs because of the wide variety of land-use requirements. This study proposes a new needs analysis method for the conceptual land-use planning of contaminated sites and illustrates this method with a case study of an illegal dumping site for hazardous waste. In this method, planning factors consisting of the land-use attributes and related facilities are extracted from the potential needs of the residents through a preliminary questionnaire. Using the extracted attributes of land use and the related facilities, land-use cases are designed for selection-based conjoint analysis. A second questionnaire for respondents to the first one who indicated an interest in participating in the second questionnaire is conducted for the conjoint analysis to determine the utility function and marginal cost of each attribute in order to prioritize the planning factors to develop a quantitative and economically and socially feasible land-use plan. Based on the results, site-specific land-use alternatives are developed and evaluated by the utility function obtained from the conjoint analysis. In this case study of an illegal dumping site for hazardous waste, the uses preferred as part of a conceptual land-use plan following remediation of the site were (1) agricultural land and a biogas plant designed to recover energy from biomass or (2) a park with a welfare facility and an athletic field. Our needs analysis method with conjoint analysis is applicable to the development of conceptual land-use planning for similar sites following remediation, particularly when added value is considered. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Quantitative analysis of factors that affect oil pipeline network accident based on Bayesian networks: A case study in China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Chao; Qin, Ting Xin; Huang, Shuai; Wu, Jian Song; Meng, Xin Yan

2018-06-01

Some factors can affect the consequences of oil pipeline accident and their effects should be analyzed to improve emergency preparation and emergency response. Although there are some qualitative analysis models of risk factors' effects, the quantitative analysis model still should be researched. In this study, we introduce a Bayesian network (BN) model of risk factors' effects analysis in an oil pipeline accident case that happened in China. The incident evolution diagram is built to identify the risk factors. And the BN model is built based on the deployment rule for factor nodes in BN and the expert knowledge by Dempster-Shafer evidence theory. Then the probabilities of incident consequences and risk factors' effects can be calculated. The most likely consequences given by this model are consilient with the case. Meanwhile, the quantitative estimations of risk factors' effects may provide a theoretical basis to take optimal risk treatment measures for oil pipeline management, which can be used in emergency preparation and emergency response.

Executive Headteachers: What's in a Name? Case Study Compendium

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wespieser, Karen, Ed.

2016-01-01

This Case Study Compendium provides an overview of the 12 cases that were investigated as part of the study "Executive Headteachers: What's in a Name?'" (Lord et al., 2016). The case study overviews are based on in-depth analysis and research as described in the full report (ibid) and the Technical Appendix (Harland and Bernardinelli,…

Method to Identify Deep Cases Based on Relationships between Nouns, Verbs, and Particles

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ide, Daisuke; Kimura, Masaomi

2016-01-01

Deep cases representing the significant meaning of nouns in sentences play a crucial role in semantic analysis. However, a case tends to be manually identified because it requires understanding the meaning and relationships of words. To address this problem, we propose a method to predict deep cases by analyzing the relationship between nouns,…

Integrating community-based participatory research and informatics approaches to improve the engagement and health of underserved populations

PubMed Central

Schaefbauer, Chris L; Campbell, Terrance R; Senteio, Charles; Siek, Katie A; Bakken, Suzanne; Veinot, Tiffany C

2016-01-01

Objective We compare 5 health informatics research projects that applied community-based participatory research (CBPR) approaches with the goal of extending existing CBPR principles to address issues specific to health informatics research. Materials and methods We conducted a cross-case analysis of 5 diverse case studies with 1 common element: integration of CBPR approaches into health informatics research. After reviewing publications and other case-related materials, all coauthors engaged in collaborative discussions focused on CBPR. Researchers mapped each case to an existing CBPR framework, examined each case individually for success factors and barriers, and identified common patterns across cases. Results Benefits of applying CBPR approaches to health informatics research across the cases included the following: developing more relevant research with wider impact, greater engagement with diverse populations, improved internal validity, more rapid translation of research into action, and the development of people. Challenges of applying CBPR to health informatics research included requirements to develop strong, sustainable academic-community partnerships and mismatches related to cultural and temporal factors. Several technology-related challenges, including needs to define ownership of technology outputs and to build technical capacity with community partners, also emerged from our analysis. Finally, we created several principles that extended an existing CBPR framework to specifically address health informatics research requirements. Conclusions Our cross-case analysis yielded valuable insights regarding CBPR implementation in health informatics research and identified valuable lessons useful for future CBPR-based research. The benefits of applying CBPR approaches can be significant, particularly in engaging populations that are typically underserved by health care and in designing patient-facing technology. PMID:26228766

The brain injury case management taxonomy (BICM-T); a classification of community-based case management interventions for a common language.

PubMed

Lukersmith, Sue; Fernandez, Ana; Millington, Michael; Salvador-Carulla, Luis

2016-04-01

Case management is a complex intervention. Complexity arises from the interaction of different components: the model (theoretical basis), implementation context (service), population and health condition, focus for the intervention (client and/or their family), case manager's actions (interventions) and the target of case management (integrated care and support, client's community participation). There is a lack of understanding and a common language. To our knowledge there is no classification (taxonomy) for community-based case management. To develop a community-based case management in brain injury taxonomy (BICM-T), as a common language and understanding of case management for use in quality analysis, policy, planning and practice. The mixed qualitative methods used multiple sources of knowledge including scoping, framing and a nominal group technique to iteratively develop the Beta version (draft) of the taxonomy. A two part developmental evaluation involving case studies and mapping to international frameworks assessed the applicability and acceptability (feasibility) before finalization of the BICM-T. The BICM-T includes a definition of community-based case management, taxonomy trees, tables and a glossary. The interventions domain tree has 9 main actions (parent category): engagement, holistic assessment, planning, education, training and skills development, emotional and motivational support, advising, coordination, monitoring; 17 linked actions (children category); 8 related actions; 63 relevant terms defined in the glossary. The BICM-T provides a knowledge map with the definitions and relationships between the core actions (interventions domain). Use of the taxonomy as a common language will benefit practice, quality analysis, evaluation, policy, planning and resource allocation. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Exome-based analysis of cardiac arrhythmia, respiratory control, and epilepsy genes in sudden unexpected death in epilepsy.

PubMed

Bagnall, Richard D; Crompton, Douglas E; Petrovski, Slavé; Lam, Lien; Cutmore, Carina; Garry, Sarah I; Sadleir, Lynette G; Dibbens, Leanne M; Cairns, Anita; Kivity, Sara; Afawi, Zaid; Regan, Brigid M; Duflou, Johan; Berkovic, Samuel F; Scheffer, Ingrid E; Semsarian, Christopher

2016-04-01

The leading cause of epilepsy-related premature mortality is sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). The cause of SUDEP remains unknown. To search for genetic risk factors in SUDEP cases, we performed an exome-based analysis of rare variants. Demographic and clinical information of 61 SUDEP cases were collected. Exome sequencing and rare variant collapsing analysis with 2,936 control exomes were performed to test for genes enriched with damaging variants. Additionally, cardiac arrhythmia, respiratory control, and epilepsy genes were screened for variants with frequency of <0.1% and predicted to be pathogenic with multiple in silico tools. The 61 SUDEP cases were categorized as definite SUDEP (n = 54), probable SUDEP (n = 5), and definite SUDEP plus (n = 2). We identified de novo mutations, previously reported pathogenic mutations, or candidate pathogenic variants in 28 of 61 (46%) cases. Four SUDEP cases (7%) had mutations in common genes responsible for the cardiac arrhythmia disease, long QT syndrome (LQTS). Nine cases (15%) had candidate pathogenic variants in dominant cardiac arrhythmia genes. Fifteen cases (25%) had mutations or candidate pathogenic variants in dominant epilepsy genes. No gene reached genome-wide significance with rare variant collapsing analysis; however, DEPDC5 (p = 0.00015) and KCNH2 (p = 0.0037) were among the top 30 genes, genome-wide. A sizeable proportion of SUDEP cases have clinically relevant mutations in cardiac arrhythmia and epilepsy genes. In cases with an LQTS gene mutation, SUDEP may occur as a result of a predictable and preventable cause. Understanding the genetic basis of SUDEP may inform cascade testing of at-risk family members. © 2016 American Neurological Association.

Regional Military Integration in West Africa: A Case Study of the Multi-National Joint Task Force in the Fight against Boko Haram

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-06-10

detailed description of issues surrounding a subject matter. The use of case studies provides the experimental foundation for qualitative analysis. As...The chapter provided a description of the case studies -based QCA methodology, highlighted how the Charles Ragin QCA will be used for data analysis...world. Against this backdrop, a study assessing the challenges and prospects of sub- regional post -conflict peacebuilding efforts will not only be

Signal Analysis of Automotive Engine Spark Ignition System using Case-Based Reasoning (CBR) and Case-based Maintenance (CBM)

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

Huang, H.; Vong, C. M.; Wong, P. K.

2010-05-21

With the development of modern technology, modern vehicles adopt electronic control system for injection and ignition. In traditional way, whenever there is any malfunctioning in an automotive engine, an automotive mechanic usually performs a diagnosis in the ignition system of the engine to check any exceptional symptoms. In this paper, we present a case-based reasoning (CBR) approach to help solve human diagnosis problem. Nevertheless, one drawback of CBR system is that the case library will be expanded gradually after repeatedly running the system, which may cause inaccuracy and longer time for the CBR retrieval. To tackle this problem, case-based maintenancemore » (CBM) framework is employed so that the case library of the CBR system will be compressed by clustering to produce a set of representative cases. As a result, the performance (in retrieval accuracy and time) of the whole CBR system can be improved.« less

Formal Foundations for the Specification of Software Architecture.

DTIC Science & Technology

1995-03-01

Architectures For- mally: A Case-Study Using KWIC." Kestrel Institute, Palo Alto, CA 94304, April 1994. 58. Kang, Kyo C. Feature-Oriented Domain Analysis ( FODA ...6.3.5 Constraint-Based Architectures ................. 6-60 6.4 Summary ......... ............................. 6-63 VII. Analysis of Process-Based...between these architec- ture theories were investigated. A feasibility analysis on an image processing application demonstrated that architecture theories

Singing and Vocal Instruction in Primary Schools: An Analysis from Six Case Studies in Spain

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cuadrado, Albina; Rusinek, Gabriel

2016-01-01

This is an analysis of how specialist music teachers sing and teach how to sing, based on data collected from six case studies carried out in Spanish primary schools. The study aimed at understanding classroom singing practices, and in particular the provision or absence of vocal instruction in relation with teachers' singing models. The findings…

Financial modeling/case-mix analysis.

PubMed

Heck, S; Esmond, T

1983-06-01

The authors describe a case mix system developed by users which goes beyond DRG requirements to respond to management's clinical/financial data needs for marketing, planning, budgeting and financial analysis as well as reimbursement. Lessons learned in development of the system and the clinical/financial base will be helpful to those currently contemplating the implementation of such a system or evaluating available software.

40 CFR 89.118 - Deterioration factors and service accumulation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

..., subsystems, or components selected by the manufacturer under § 89.117(d). The manufacturer shall describe the... must be based on good engineering judgment. (iii) Engineering analysis for established technologies. (A) In the case where an engine family uses established technology, an analysis based on good engineering...

40 CFR 89.118 - Deterioration factors and service accumulation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

..., subsystems, or components selected by the manufacturer under § 89.117(d). The manufacturer shall describe the... must be based on good engineering judgment. (iii) Engineering analysis for established technologies. (A) In the case where an engine family uses established technology, an analysis based on good engineering...

40 CFR 89.118 - Deterioration factors and service accumulation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

..., subsystems, or components selected by the manufacturer under § 89.117(d). The manufacturer shall describe the... must be based on good engineering judgment. (iii) Engineering analysis for established technologies. (A) In the case where an engine family uses established technology, an analysis based on good engineering...

40 CFR 89.118 - Deterioration factors and service accumulation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

..., subsystems, or components selected by the manufacturer under § 89.117(d). The manufacturer shall describe the... must be based on good engineering judgment. (iii) Engineering analysis for established technologies. (A) In the case where an engine family uses established technology, an analysis based on good engineering...

40 CFR 89.118 - Deterioration factors and service accumulation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

..., subsystems, or components selected by the manufacturer under § 89.117(d). The manufacturer shall describe the... must be based on good engineering judgment. (iii) Engineering analysis for established technologies. (A) In the case where an engine family uses established technology, an analysis based on good engineering...

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

Roper, J; Bradshaw, B; Godette, K

Purpose: To create a knowledge-based algorithm for prostate LDR brachytherapy treatment planning that standardizes plan quality using seed arrangements tailored to individual physician preferences while being fast enough for real-time planning. Methods: A dataset of 130 prior cases was compiled for a physician with an active prostate seed implant practice. Ten cases were randomly selected to test the algorithm. Contours from the 120 library cases were registered to a common reference frame. Contour variations were characterized on a point by point basis using principle component analysis (PCA). A test case was converted to PCA vectors using the same process andmore » then compared with each library case using a Mahalanobis distance to evaluate similarity. Rank order PCA scores were used to select the best-matched library case. The seed arrangement was extracted from the best-matched case and used as a starting point for planning the test case. Computational time was recorded. Any subsequent modifications were recorded that required input from a treatment planner to achieve an acceptable plan. Results: The computational time required to register contours from a test case and evaluate PCA similarity across the library was approximately 10s. Five of the ten test cases did not require any seed additions, deletions, or moves to obtain an acceptable plan. The remaining five test cases required on average 4.2 seed modifications. The time to complete manual plan modifications was less than 30s in all cases. Conclusion: A knowledge-based treatment planning algorithm was developed for prostate LDR brachytherapy based on principle component analysis. Initial results suggest that this approach can be used to quickly create treatment plans that require few if any modifications by the treatment planner. In general, test case plans have seed arrangements which are very similar to prior cases, and thus are inherently tailored to physician preferences.« less

Safety distance assessment of industrial toxic releases based on frequency and consequence: a case study in Shanghai, China.

PubMed

Yu, Q; Zhang, Y; Wang, X; Ma, W C; Chen, L M

2009-09-15

A case study on the safety distance assessment of a chemical industry park in Shanghai, China, is presented in this paper. Toxic releases were taken into consideration. A safety criterion based on frequency and consequence of major hazard accidents was set up for consequence analysis. The exposure limits for the accidents with the frequency of more than 10(-4), 10(-5)-10(-4) and 10(-6)-10(-5) per year were mortalities of 1% (or SLOT), 50% (SLOD) and 75% (twice of SLOD) respectively. Accidents with the frequency of less than 10(-6) per year were considered incredible and ignored in the consequence analysis. Taking the safety distance of all the hazard installations in a chemical plant into consideration, the results based on the new criterion were almost smaller than those based on LC50 or SLOD. The combination of the consequence and risk based results indicated that the hazard installations in two of the chemical plants may be dangerous to the protection targets and measurements had to be taken to reduce the risk. The case study showed that taking account of the frequency of occurrence in the consequence analysis would give more feasible safety distances for major hazard accidents and the results were more comparable to those calculated by risk assessment.

Targeted exome sequencing and chromosomal microarray for the molecular diagnosis of nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome.

PubMed

Matsudate, Yoshihiro; Naruto, Takuya; Hayashi, Yumiko; Minami, Mitsuyoshi; Tohyama, Mikiko; Yokota, Kenji; Yamada, Daisuke; Imoto, Issei; Kubo, Yoshiaki

2017-06-01

Nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome (NBCCS) is an autosomal dominant disorder mainly caused by heterozygous mutations of PTCH1. In addition to characteristic clinical features, detection of a mutation in causative genes is reliable for the diagnosis of NBCCS; however, no mutations have been identified in some patients using conventional methods. To improve the method for the molecular diagnosis of NBCCS. We performed targeted exome sequencing (TES) analysis using a multi-gene panel, including PTCH1, PTCH2, SUFU, and other sonic hedgehog signaling pathway-related genes, based on next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology in 8 cases in whom possible causative mutations were not detected by previously performed conventional analysis and 2 recent cases of NBCCS. Subsequent analysis of gross deletion within or around PTCH1 detected by TES was performed using chromosomal microarray (CMA). Through TES analysis, specific single nucleotide variants or small indels of PTCH1 causing inferred amino acid changes were identified in 2 novel cases and 2 undiagnosed cases, whereas gross deletions within or around PTCH1, which are validated by CMA, were found in 3 undiagnosed cases. However, no mutations were detected even by TES in 3 cases. Among 3 cases with gross deletions of PTCH1, deletions containing the entire PTCH1 and additional neighboring genes were detected in 2 cases, one of which exhibited atypical clinical features, such as severe mental retardation, likely associated with genes located within the 4.3Mb deleted region, especially. TES-based simultaneous evaluation of sequences and copy number status in all targeted coding exons by NGS is likely to be more useful for the molecular diagnosis of NBCCS than conventional methods. CMA is recommended as a subsequent analysis for validation and detailed mapping of deleted regions, which may explain the atypical clinical features of NBCCS cases. Copyright © 2017 Japanese Society for Investigative Dermatology. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Partners for the optimal organisation of the healthcare continuum for high users of health and social services: protocol of a developmental evaluation case study design

PubMed Central

Hudon, Catherine; Chouinard, Maud-Christine; Couture, Martine; Brousselle, Astrid; Couture, Eva Marjorie; Dubois, Marie-France; Fortin, Martin; Freund, Tobias; Loignon, Christine; Mireault, Jean; Pluye, Pierre; Roberge, Pasquale; Rodriguez, Charo

2014-01-01

Introduction Case management allows us to respond to the complex needs of a vulnerable clientele through a structured approach that promotes enhanced interaction between partners. Syntheses on the subject converge towards a need for a better description of the relationships between programmes and their local context, as well as the characteristics of the clienteles and programmes that contribute to positive impacts. The purpose of this project is thus to describe and evaluate the case management programmes of four health and social services centres in the Saguenay-Lac- Saint-Jean region of Québec, Canada, in order to inform their improvement while creating knowledge on case management that can be useful in other contexts. Methods and analysis This research relies on a multiple embedded case study design based on a developmental evaluation approach. We will work with the case management programme for high users of hospital services of each centre. Three different units of analysis will be interwoven to obtain an in-depth understanding of each case, that is: (1) health and social services centre and local services network, (2) case management programme and (3) patients who are high users of services. Two strategies for programme evaluation (logic models and implementation analysis) will guide the mixed data collection based on qualitative and quantitative methods. This data collection will rely on: (1) individual interviews and focus groups; (2) participant observation; (3) document analysis; (4) clinical and administrative data and (5) questionnaires. Description and comparison of cases, and integration of qualitative and quantitative data will be used to guide the data analysis. Ethics and dissemination The study protocol was approved by the Ethics Research Boards of the four health and social services centres (HSSCs) involved. Findings will be disseminated by publications in peer-reviewed journals, conferences, and policy and practice partners in local and national government. PMID:25468510

[Analysis of 4 clustered high risk acute flaccid paralysis cases in Shanxi Province in 2006].

PubMed

Yan, Dong-mei; Zhang, Yong; Wang, Dong-yan

2010-04-01

Analysis of epidemiology of 4 clustered high risk acute flaccid paralysis(AFP) cases reported by Shanxi province in 2006 and VP1 gene characteristic for type III poliovirus isolated from the four AFP cases. Virus isolation and identification were conducted according to the 4th edition of WHO polio laboratory manual. The sequence of VP1 region were amplified and sequenced. The phylogenetic trees based on VP1 region were constructed. Three of four high risk AFP cases were suspected as vaccine associated paralysis poliomyelitis (VAPP), the onset date of them were close. VP1 sequencing of the four type III isolates revealed that the identity were 99.7%, 99.9%, 99.4% and 99.9% respectively compared with vaccine reference strain-BJOPV3. According to WHO criteria, the four isolates were identified as type III vaccine-related poliovirus. Phylogenetic analysis based on VP1 coding sequence showed that the four type III poliovirus were not related significantly. The type III poliovirus isolated from 3 suspected VAPP cases shared one nucleotide mutation at 2637 (C-->U), which result in the amino acid mutation from Val into Ala. The improvement of laboratory surveillance for clustered high risk AFP cases should be strengthened so as to detect and prevent poliovirus circulation timely.

Students' Learning Experiences from Didactic Teaching Sessions Including Patient Case Examples as Either Text or Video: A Qualitative Study.

PubMed

Pedersen, Kamilla; Moeller, Martin Holdgaard; Paltved, Charlotte; Mors, Ole; Ringsted, Charlotte; Morcke, Anne Mette

2017-10-06

The aim of this study was to explore medical students' learning experiences from the didactic teaching formats using either text-based patient cases or video-based patient cases with similar content. The authors explored how the two different patient case formats influenced students' perceptions of psychiatric patients and students' reflections on meeting and communicating with psychiatric patients. The authors conducted group interviews with 30 medical students who volunteered to participate in interviews and applied inductive thematic content analysis to the transcribed interviews. Students taught with text-based patient cases emphasized excitement and drama towards the personal clinical narratives presented by the teachers during the course, but never referred to the patient cases. Authority and boundary setting were regarded as important in managing patients. Students taught with video-based patient cases, in contrast, often referred to the patient cases when highlighting new insights, including the importance of patient perspectives when communicating with patients. The format of patient cases included in teaching may have a substantial impact on students' patient-centeredness. Video-based patient cases are probably more effective than text-based patient cases in fostering patient-centered perspectives in medical students. Teachers sharing stories from their own clinical experiences stimulates both engagement and excitement, but may also provoke unintended stigma and influence an authoritative approach in medical students towards managing patients in clinical psychiatry.

[Analysis of sequelae of the latissimus dorsi flap removal. Report of 44 cases reviewed and tested].

PubMed

Legré, R; Boghossian, V; Servant, J M; Magalon, G; Bureau, H

1990-01-01

Since Tanzini, the latissimus dorsi muscle flap has been widely used in plastic surgery. Based on the experience of two plastic surgery units, we decided to try to define the sequelae of this operation. In order to simplify our analysis we only considered free flaps. Out study is based on 42 patients (26 pure muscular flaps and 16 musculo-cutaneous flaps). The sequelae were analysed in terms of aesthetic and functional criteria. The aesthetic sequelae appeared to be minima in the case of pure muscular flaps, but more severe in the case of musculo-cutaneous flaps. Functional sequelae in the shoulder were observed on muscle testing in 30% of cases, although there were no repercussions on sport or work activities. Analysis of spinal posture demonstrated a modification in the frontal plane in 40% of cases although this could not be clearly attributed to the donor site. On the basis of this study, we can conclude that the latissimus dorsi flap retains an important place in the therapeutic arsenal of plastic surgery due to its reliability and its minor cicatricial and functional sequelae at the donor site.

Parents' Experiences of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA)-Based Interventions for Children Diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Disorder

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McPhilemy, Catherine; Dillenburger, Karola

2013-01-01

Applied behaviour analysis (ABA)-based programmes are endorsed as the gold standard for treatment of children with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) in most of North America. This is not the case in most of Europe, where instead a non-specified "eclectic" approach is adopted. We explored the social validity of ABA-based interventions with…

Challenging evidence-based decision-making: a hypothetical case study about return to work.

PubMed

Aas, Randi W; Alexanderson, Kristina

2012-03-01

A hypothetical case study about return to work was used to explore the process of translating research into practice. The method involved constructing a case study derived from the characteristics of a typical, sick-listed employee with non-specific low back pain in Norway. Next, the five-step evidence-based process, including the Patient, Intervention, Co-Interventions and Outcome framework (PICO), was applied to the case study. An inductive analysis produced 10 technical and more fundamental challenges to incorporate research into intervention decisions for an individual with comorbidity. A more dynamic, interactive approach to the evidence-based practice process is proposed. It is recommended that this plus the 10 challenges are validated with real life cases, as the hypothetical case study may not be replicable. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Web-based tools for modelling and analysis of multivariate data: California ozone pollution activity

PubMed Central

Dinov, Ivo D.; Christou, Nicolas

2014-01-01

This article presents a hands-on web-based activity motivated by the relation between human health and ozone pollution in California. This case study is based on multivariate data collected monthly at 20 locations in California between 1980 and 2006. Several strategies and tools for data interrogation and exploratory data analysis, model fitting and statistical inference on these data are presented. All components of this case study (data, tools, activity) are freely available online at: http://wiki.stat.ucla.edu/socr/index.php/SOCR_MotionCharts_CAOzoneData. Several types of exploratory (motion charts, box-and-whisker plots, spider charts) and quantitative (inference, regression, analysis of variance (ANOVA)) data analyses tools are demonstrated. Two specific human health related questions (temporal and geographic effects of ozone pollution) are discussed as motivational challenges. PMID:24465054

Web-based tools for modelling and analysis of multivariate data: California ozone pollution activity.

PubMed

Dinov, Ivo D; Christou, Nicolas

2011-09-01

This article presents a hands-on web-based activity motivated by the relation between human health and ozone pollution in California. This case study is based on multivariate data collected monthly at 20 locations in California between 1980 and 2006. Several strategies and tools for data interrogation and exploratory data analysis, model fitting and statistical inference on these data are presented. All components of this case study (data, tools, activity) are freely available online at: http://wiki.stat.ucla.edu/socr/index.php/SOCR_MotionCharts_CAOzoneData. Several types of exploratory (motion charts, box-and-whisker plots, spider charts) and quantitative (inference, regression, analysis of variance (ANOVA)) data analyses tools are demonstrated. Two specific human health related questions (temporal and geographic effects of ozone pollution) are discussed as motivational challenges.

Agreement between the results of meta-analyses from case reports and from clinical studies regarding the efficacy of laronidase therapy in patients with mucopolysaccharidosis type I who initiated enzyme replacement therapy in adult age: An example of case reports meta-analyses as an useful tool for evidence-based medicine in rare diseases.

PubMed

Sampayo-Cordero, Miguel; Miguel-Huguet, Bernat; Pardo-Mateos, Almudena; Moltó-Abad, Marc; Muñoz-Delgado, Cecilia; Pérez-López, Jordi

2018-02-01

Case reports might have a prominent role in the rare diseases field, due to the small number of patients affected by one such disease. A previous systematic review regarding the efficacy of laronidase therapy in patients with mucopolysaccharidosis type I (MPS-I) who initiated enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) in adult age has been published. The review included a meta-analysis of 19 clinical studies and the description of eleven case reports. It was of interest to perform a meta-analysis of those case reports to explore the role of such meta-analyses as a tool for evidence-based medicine in rare diseases. The study included all case reports with standard treatment regimen. Primary analysis was the percentage of case reports showing an improvement in a specific outcome. Only when that percentage was statistically higher than 5%, the improvement was confirmed as such. The outcomes that accomplished this criterion were ranked and compared to the GRADE criteria obtained by those same outcomes in the previous meta-analysis of clinical studies. There were three outcomes that had a significant improvement: Urine glycosaminoglycans, liver volume and 6-minute walking test. Positive and negative predictive values, sensitivity and specificity for the results of the meta-analysis of case reports as compared to that of clinical studies were 100%, 88.9%, 75% and 100%, respectively. Accordingly, absolute (Rho=0.82, 95%CI: 0.47 to 0.95) and relative agreement (Kappa=0.79, 95%CI: 0.593 to 0.99) between the number of case reports with improvement in a specific outcome and the GRADE evidence score for that outcome were good. Sensitivity analysis showed that agreement between the meta-analysis of case reports and that of the clinical studies were good only when using a strong confirmatory strategy for outcome improvement in case reports. We found an agreement between the results of meta-analyses from case reports and from clinical studies in the efficacy of laronidase therapy in patients with MPS-I who initiated ERT in adult age. This agreement suggests that combining case reports quantitatively, rather than analyzing them separately or qualitatively, may improve conclusions in the field of rare diseases. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Polygenic risk score analysis of pathologically confirmed Alzheimer disease.

PubMed

Escott-Price, Valentina; Myers, Amanda J; Huentelman, Matt; Hardy, John

2017-08-01

Previous estimates of the utility of polygenic risk score analysis for the prediction of Alzheimer disease have given area under the curve (AUC) estimates of <80%. However, these have been based on the genetic analysis of clinical case-control series. Here, we apply the same analytic approaches to a pathological case-control series and show a predictive AUC of 84%. We suggest that this analysis has clinical utility and that there is limited room for further improvement using genetic data. Ann Neurol 2017;82:311-314. © 2017 American Neurological Association.

The -765G>C polymorphism in the cyclooxygenase-2 gene and digestive system cancer: a meta-analysis.

PubMed

Zhao, Fen; Cao, Yue; Zhu, Hong; Huang, Min; Yi, Cheng; Huang, Ying

2014-01-01

Published data regarding associations between the -765G>C polymorphism in cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) gene and digestive system cancer risk have been inconclusive. The aim of this study was to comprehensively evaluate the genetic risk of the -765G>C polymorphism in the COX-2 gene for digestive system cancer. A search was performed in Pubmed, Medline (Ovid), Embase, CNKI, Weipu, Wanfang and CBM databases, covering all studies until Feb 10, 2014. Statistical analysis was performed using Revman5.2. A total of 10,814 cases and 16,174 controls in 38 case-control studies were included in this meta-analysis. The results indicated that C allele carriers (GC+CC) had a 20% increased risk of digestive system cancer when compared with the homozygote GG (odds ratio (OR)=1.20, 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.00-1.44 for GC+CC vs GG). In the subgroup analysis by ethnicity, significant elevated risks were associated with C allele carriers (GC+CC) in Asians (OR = 1.46, 95% CI=1.07-2.01, and p=0.02) and Africans (OR=2.12, 95% CI=1.57-2.87, and p< 0.00001), but not among Caucasians, Americans and mixed groups. For subgroup analysis by cancer type (GC+CC vs GG), significant associations were found between the -765G>C polymorphism and higher risk for gastric cancer (OR=1.64, 95% CI=1.03-2.61, and p=0.04), but not for colorectal cancer, oral cancer, esophageal cancer, and others. Regarding study design (GC+CC vs GG), no significant associations were found in then population-based case-control (PCC), hospital-based case-control (HCC) and family-based case-control (FCC) studies. This meta-analysis suggested that the -765G>C polymorphism of the COX-2 gene is a potential risk factor for digestive system cancer in Asians and Africans and gastric cancer overall.

Case study approach to modeling historical disinfection by-product exposure in Iowa drinking waters.

PubMed

Krasner, Stuart W; Cantor, Kenneth P; Weyer, Peter J; Hildesheim, Mariana; Amy, Gary

2017-08-01

In the 1980s, a case-control epidemiologic study was conducted in Iowa (USA) to analyze the association between exposure to disinfection by-products (DBPs) and bladder cancer risk. Trihalomethanes (THMs), the most commonly measured and dominant class of DBPs in drinking water, served as a primary metric and surrogate for the full DBP mixture. Average THM exposure was calculated, based on rough estimates of past levels in Iowa. To reduce misclassification, a follow-up study was undertaken to improve estimates of past THM levels and to re-evaluate their association with cancer risk. In addition, the risk associated with haloacetic acids, another class of DBPs, was examined. In the original analysis, surface water treatment plants were assigned one of two possible THM levels depending on the point of chlorination. The re-assessment considered each utility treating surface or groundwater on a case-by-case basis. Multiple treatment/disinfection scenarios and water quality parameters were considered with actual DBP measurements to develop estimates of past levels. The highest annual average THM level in the re-analysis was 156μg/L compared to 74μg/L for the original analysis. This allowed the analysis of subjects exposed at higher levels (>96μg/L). The re-analysis established a new approach, based on case studies and an understanding of the water quality and operational parameters that impact DBP formation, for determining historical exposure. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Peer Support in Full-Service Partnerships: A Multiple Case Study Analysis.

PubMed

Siantz, Elizabeth; Henwood, Benjamin; Gilmer, Todd

2017-07-01

Peer providers are integral to Full Service Partnerships (FSPs), which are team-based mental health service models. Peer providers use principles of recovery to engage clients, but FSPs can vary in their recovery orientation. Whether and how peer recovery orientation reflects the organizational environments of FSPs is unclear. This qualitative study explored peer provider attitudes towards recovery within the organizational contexts of FSPs where they are employed. Case study analysis was conducted on eight purposively sampled FSPs using qualitative interviews with peer providers and program directors. In two cases, peer recovery attitudes diverged from those of their organizational context. In these cases, peer providers were champions for recovery, and used practice-based strategies to promote client autonomy despite working in settings with lower recovery orientation. Peer providers could be uniquely positioned to promote client autonomy in settings where organizational factors limit consumer choice.

Use of Model-Based Design Methods for Enhancing Resiliency Analysis of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Knox, Lenora A.

The most common traditional non-functional requirement analysis is reliability. With systems becoming more complex, networked, and adaptive to environmental uncertainties, system resiliency has recently become the non-functional requirement analysis of choice. Analysis of system resiliency has challenges; which include, defining resilience for domain areas, identifying resilience metrics, determining resilience modeling strategies, and understanding how to best integrate the concepts of risk and reliability into resiliency. Formal methods that integrate all of these concepts do not currently exist in specific domain areas. Leveraging RAMSoS, a model-based reliability analysis methodology for Systems of Systems (SoS), we propose an extension that accounts for resiliency analysis through evaluation of mission performance, risk, and cost using multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) modeling and design trade study variability modeling evaluation techniques. This proposed methodology, coined RAMSoS-RESIL, is applied to a case study in the multi-agent unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) domain to investigate the potential benefits of a mission architecture where functionality to complete a mission is disseminated across multiple UAVs (distributed) opposed to being contained in a single UAV (monolithic). The case study based research demonstrates proof of concept for the proposed model-based technique and provides sufficient preliminary evidence to conclude which architectural design (distributed vs. monolithic) is most resilient based on insight into mission resilience performance, risk, and cost in addition to the traditional analysis of reliability.

Student reflections following exposure to a case-based interprofessional learning experience: Preliminary findings.

PubMed

Goldberg, Lynette R; Brown, Gina R; Mosack, Victoria A; Fletcher, Phyllis A

2015-01-01

This study analyzed students' written reflections following their initial exposure to interprofessional teamwork in case-based problem-solving. A three-hour seminar featuring three sequenced scenarios was developed and offered 12-times over two semesters. A total of 305 students from a variety of healthcare programs worked together with standardized patients in an on-campus laboratory simulating hospital ward and rehabilitation settings. A thematic analysis of students' reflections showed that they valued the shared learning and realistic case study. However, they felt the experience would be strengthened by working in smaller, more representative teams that included students from medicine, psychology, and social work to enable more effective communication and comprehensive case discussion. While useful for future planning, the identified themes did not enable a comparative statistical analysis of what students found helpful and difficult and a re-coding of students' responses now is underway. Implications for measuring the effectiveness of future interprofessional case-based learning center on addressing the identified weaknesses, and establishing a research design that enables a comparison of pre- and post-seminar data, and the effectiveness of the IPE experience compared to profession-specific experiences.

Development of a validated clinical case definition of generalized tonic-clonic seizures for use by community-based health care providers.

PubMed

Anand, Krishnan; Jain, Satish; Paul, Eldho; Srivastava, Achal; Sahariah, Sirazul A; Kapoor, Suresh K

2005-05-01

To develop and test a clinical case definition for identification of generalized tonic-clonic seizures (GTCSs) by community-based health care providers. To identify symptoms that can help identify GTCSs, patients with history of a jerky movements or rigidity in any part of the body ever in life were recruited from three sites: the community, secondary care hospital, and tertiary care hospital. These patients were administered a 14-item structured interview schedule focusing on the circumstances surrounding the seizure. Subsequently, a neurologist examined each patient and, based on available investigations, classified them as GTCS or non-GTCS cases. A logistic regression analysis was performed to select symptoms that were to be used for case definition of GTCSs. Validity parameters for the case definition at different cutoff points were calculated in another set of subjects. In total, 339 patients were enrolled in the first phase of the study. The tertiary care hospital contributed the maximal number of GTCS cases, whereas cases of non-GTCS were mainly from the community. At the end of phase I, the questionnaire was shortened from 14 to eight questions based on statistical association and clinical judgment. After phase II, which was conducted among 170 subjects, three variables were found to be significantly related to the presence of GTCSs by logistic regression: absence of stress (13.1; 4.1-41.3), presence of frothing (13.7; 4.0-47.3), and occurrence in sleep (8.3; 2.0-34.9). As a case definition using only three variables did not provide sufficient specificity, three more variables were added based on univariate analysis of the data (incontinence during the episode and unconsciousness) and review of literature (injury during episode). A case definition consisting of giving one point to an affirmative answer for each of the six questions was tested. At a cutoff point of four, sensitivity was 56.9 (47.4-66.0) and specificity, 96.3 (86.2-99.4). Among the 197 GTCS and 26 new non-GTCS patients recruited from hospitals from select SEAR Member Countries, in phase III, the sensitivity of this clinical case definition was 72% and specificity, 100%. A stratified analysis by gender in all the three phases did not show any differences between the sexes. Based on these criteria, we recommend that all patients with a history of two or more episodes of jerking or rigidity of limbs, having a score of > or =4 in the case definition, be identified as having GTCSs and started on antiepileptic medications. This clinical case definition can be very useful for community-based health care providers to identify and manage cases of GTCSs in the community. This should play a major role in the reduction of treatment gap for epilepsy in developing countries.

Case-based learning facilitates critical thinking in undergraduate nutrition education: students describe the big picture.

PubMed

Harman, Tara; Bertrand, Brenda; Greer, Annette; Pettus, Arianna; Jennings, Jill; Wall-Bassett, Elizabeth; Babatunde, Oyinlola Toyin

2015-03-01

The vision of dietetics professions is based on interdependent education, credentialing, and practice. Case-based learning is a method of problem-based learning that is designed to heighten higher-order thinking. Case-based learning can assist students to connect education and specialized practice while developing professional skills for entry-level practice in nutrition and dietetics. This study examined student perspectives of their learning after immersion into case-based learning in nutrition courses. The theoretical frameworks of phenomenology and Bloom's Taxonomy of Educational Objectives triangulated the design of this qualitative study. Data were drawn from 426 written responses and three focus group discussions among 85 students from three upper-level undergraduate nutrition courses. Coding served to deconstruct the essence of respondent meaning given to case-based learning as a learning method. The analysis of the coding was the constructive stage that led to configuration of themes and theoretical practice pathways about student learning. Four leading themes emerged. Story or Scenario represents the ways that students described case-based learning, changes in student thought processes to accommodate case-based learning are illustrated in Method of Learning, higher cognitive learning that was achieved from case-based learning is represented in Problem Solving, and Future Practice details how students explained perceived professional competency gains from case-based learning. The skills that students acquired are consistent with those identified as essential to professional practice. In addition, the common concept of Big Picture was iterated throughout the themes and demonstrated that case-based learning prepares students for multifaceted problems that they are likely to encounter in professional practice. Copyright © 2015 Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Scenario-Based Case Study Method and the Functionality of the Section Called "From Production to Consumption" from the Perspective of Primary School Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Taneri, Ahu

2018-01-01

In this research, the aim was showing the evaluation of students on scenario-based case study method and showing the functionality of the studied section called "from production to consumption". Qualitative research method and content analysis were used to reveal participants' experiences and reveal meaningful relations regarding…

Academic English Teaching for Postgraduates Based on Self-Regulated Learning Environment: A Case Study of Academic Reading Course

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zhao, Wei

2016-01-01

This study selects postgraduate students in the first grade as the participants, based on their needs analysis, classroom presentations and performance of assignments completion, through the methodology of case study, the results show that students at the university level even the graduate levels still struggle with academic English. Thus, this…

Impact of Active Teaching Methods Implemented on Therapeutic Chemistry Module: Performance and Impressions of First-Year Pharmacy Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Derfoufi, Sanae; Benmoussa, Adnane; El Harti, Jaouad; Ramli, Youssef; Taoufik, Jamal; Chaouir, Souad

2015-01-01

This study investigates the positive impact of the Case Method implemented during a 4- hours tutorial in "therapeutic chemistry module." We view the Case Method as one particular approach within the broader spectrum of problem based or inquiry based learning approaches. Sixty students were included in data analysis. A pre-test and…

[Application of array-based comparative genomic hybridization technique in genetic analysis of patients with spontaneous abortion].

PubMed

Chu, Y; Wu, D; Hou, Q F; Huo, X D; Gao, Y; Wang, T; Wang, H D; Yang, Y L; Liao, S X

2016-08-25

To investigate the value of array-based comparative genomic hybridization (array-CGH) technique for the detection of chromosomal analysis of miscarried embryo, and to provide genetic counseling for couples with spontaneous abortion. Totally 382 patients who underwent miscarriage were enrolled in this study. All aborted tissues were analyzed with conventional cytogenetic karyotyping and array-CGH, respectively. Through genetic analysis, all of the 382 specimens were successfully analyzed by array-CGH (100.0%, 382/382), and the detection rate of chromosomal aberrations was 46.6% (178/382). However, conventional karyotype analysis was successfully performed in 281 cases (73.6%, 281/382), and 113 (40.2%, 113/281) were found with chromosomal aberrations. Of these 178 samples identified by array-CGH, 163 samples (91.6%, 163/178) were aneuploidy, 15 samples (8.4%, 15/178) were segmental deletion and (or) duplication cases. Four of 10 cases with small segmental deletion and duplication were validated to be transferred from their fathers or mathers who were carriers of submicroscopic reciprocal translocation. Of these 113 abnormal karyotypes founded by conventional karyotyping, 108 cases (95.6%, 108/113) were aneuploidy and 5 cases (4.4%, 5/113) had chromosome structural aberrations. Most array-CGH results were consistent with conventional karyotyping but with 3 cases of discrepancy, which included 2 cases of triploids, 1 case of low-level mosaicism that undetcted by array-CGH. Compared with conventional karyotyping, there is an increased detection rate of chromosomal abnormalities when array-CGH is used to analyse the products of conception, primarilly because of its sucess with nonviable tissues. It could be a first-line method to determine the reason of miscarrage with higher accuracy and sensitivity.

Topic-Focused Analysis of Verbal Interaction in a Case of Integrative Therapy with a Young Woman Presenting with Symptoms of Depression

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Reichelt, Sissel; Skjerve, Jan; McLeod, John

2017-01-01

It is increasingly recognised that single-case analysis makes a valuable contribution to the evidence base for psychotherapy, alongside other methodologies. Such analyses make it possible to investigate the unfolding process of change in therapy, and develop an understanding of change factors that contribute to outcome. One of the key challenges…

The clustering-based case-based reasoning for imbalanced business failure prediction: a hybrid approach through integrating unsupervised process with supervised process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Hui; Yu, Jun-Ling; Yu, Le-An; Sun, Jie

2014-05-01

Case-based reasoning (CBR) is one of the main forecasting methods in business forecasting, which performs well in prediction and holds the ability of giving explanations for the results. In business failure prediction (BFP), the number of failed enterprises is relatively small, compared with the number of non-failed ones. However, the loss is huge when an enterprise fails. Therefore, it is necessary to develop methods (trained on imbalanced samples) which forecast well for this small proportion of failed enterprises and performs accurately on total accuracy meanwhile. Commonly used methods constructed on the assumption of balanced samples do not perform well in predicting minority samples on imbalanced samples consisting of the minority/failed enterprises and the majority/non-failed ones. This article develops a new method called clustering-based CBR (CBCBR), which integrates clustering analysis, an unsupervised process, with CBR, a supervised process, to enhance the efficiency of retrieving information from both minority and majority in CBR. In CBCBR, various case classes are firstly generated through hierarchical clustering inside stored experienced cases, and class centres are calculated out by integrating cases information in the same clustered class. When predicting the label of a target case, its nearest clustered case class is firstly retrieved by ranking similarities between the target case and each clustered case class centre. Then, nearest neighbours of the target case in the determined clustered case class are retrieved. Finally, labels of the nearest experienced cases are used in prediction. In the empirical experiment with two imbalanced samples from China, the performance of CBCBR was compared with the classical CBR, a support vector machine, a logistic regression and a multi-variant discriminate analysis. The results show that compared with the other four methods, CBCBR performed significantly better in terms of sensitivity for identifying the minority samples and generated high total accuracy meanwhile. The proposed approach makes CBR useful in imbalanced forecasting.

Paediatric acid-base disorders: A case-based review of procedures and pitfalls

PubMed Central

Carmody, J Bryan; Norwood, Victoria F

2013-01-01

Acid-base disorders occur frequently in paediatric patients. Despite the perception that their analysis is complex and difficult, a straightforward set of rules is sufficient to interpret even the most complex disorders – provided certain pitfalls are avoided. Using a case-based approach, the present article reviews the fundamental concepts of acid-base analysis and highlights common mistakes and oversights. Specific topics include the proper identification of the primary disorder; distinguishing compensatory changes from additional primary disorders; use of the albumin-corrected anion gap to generate a differential diagnosis for patients with metabolic acidosis; screening for mixed disorders with the delta-delta formula; recognizing the limits of compensation; use of the anion gap to identify ‘hidden’ acidosis; and the importance of using information from the history and physical examination to identify the specific cause of a patient’s acid-base disturbance. PMID:24381489

Evaluation of EMERGE, a Medical Decision Making Aid for Analysis of Chest Pain

PubMed Central

Hudson, Donna L.; Cohen, Moses E.; Deedwania, Prakash C.; Watson, Patricia E.

1983-01-01

EMERGE, a rule-based medical decision making aid for analysis of chest pain in the emergency room, was evaluated using retrospective patient data. The analysis consisted of two phases. In the initial phase, patient cases were run in order to make minor modifications and adjustments in the criteria used for determination of admission. In the second phase, patient cases were analyzed to determine the effectiveness of the EMERGE system in arriving at the proper conclusion.

THE COMMAND OF THE TREND: SOCIAL MEDIA AS A WEAPON IN THE INFORMATION AGE

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-06-01

and a bot network) based on the analysis within this case study . Table 3. ISIS Case Study Analysis Propaganda Narratives 1. ISIS is strong...get started with an interview and included me in a cyber think-tank for the study of ISIS activity on social media. Additionally, I am still... study demonstrates how social media is a tool for modern warfare in the information age. The report builds on analysis of three distinct topics

DNA methylation-based reclassification of olfactory neuroblastoma.

PubMed

Capper, David; Engel, Nils W; Stichel, Damian; Lechner, Matt; Glöss, Stefanie; Schmid, Simone; Koelsche, Christian; Schrimpf, Daniel; Niesen, Judith; Wefers, Annika K; Jones, David T W; Sill, Martin; Weigert, Oliver; Ligon, Keith L; Olar, Adriana; Koch, Arend; Forster, Martin; Moran, Sebastian; Tirado, Oscar M; Sáinz-Japeado, Miguel; Mora, Jaume; Esteller, Manel; Alonso, Javier; Del Muro, Xavier Garcia; Paulus, Werner; Felsberg, Jörg; Reifenberger, Guido; Glatzel, Markus; Frank, Stephan; Monoranu, Camelia M; Lund, Valerie J; von Deimling, Andreas; Pfister, Stefan; Buslei, Rolf; Ribbat-Idel, Julika; Perner, Sven; Gudziol, Volker; Meinhardt, Matthias; Schüller, Ulrich

2018-05-05

Olfactory neuroblastoma/esthesioneuroblastoma (ONB) is an uncommon neuroectodermal neoplasm thought to arise from the olfactory epithelium. Little is known about its molecular pathogenesis. For this study, a retrospective cohort of n = 66 tumor samples with the institutional diagnosis of ONB was analyzed by immunohistochemistry, genome-wide DNA methylation profiling, copy number analysis, and in a subset, next-generation panel sequencing of 560 tumor-associated genes. DNA methylation profiles were compared to those of relevant differential diagnoses of ONB. Unsupervised hierarchical clustering analysis of DNA methylation data revealed four subgroups among institutionally diagnosed ONB. The largest group (n = 42, 64%, Core ONB) presented with classical ONB histology and no overlap with other classes upon methylation profiling-based t-distributed stochastic neighbor embedding (t-SNE) analysis. A second DNA methylation group (n = 7, 11%) with CpG island methylator phenotype (CIMP) consisted of cases with strong expression of cytokeratin, no or scarce chromogranin A expression and IDH2 hotspot mutation in all cases. T-SNE analysis clustered these cases together with sinonasal carcinoma with IDH2 mutation. Four cases (6%) formed a small group characterized by an overall high level of DNA methylation, but without CIMP. The fourth group consisted of 13 cases that had heterogeneous DNA methylation profiles and strong cytokeratin expression in most cases. In t-SNE analysis, these cases mostly grouped among sinonasal adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and undifferentiated carcinoma. Copy number analysis indicated highly recurrent chromosomal changes among Core ONB with a high frequency of combined loss of chromosome 1-4, 8-10, and 12. NGS sequencing did not reveal highly recurrent mutations in ONB, with the only recurrently mutated genes being TP53 and DNMT3A. In conclusion, we demonstrate that institutionally diagnosed ONB are a heterogeneous group of tumors. Expression of cytokeratin, chromogranin A, the mutational status of IDH2 as well as DNA methylation patterns may greatly aid in the precise classification of ONB.

Benefits and Financial Impacts of Adopting Technology in Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Grenman, Katri; Isomursu, Minna; Federley, Maija; Seisto, Anu

2013-01-01

This paper summarizes the results of an analysis of the impacts of adopting information and communication technology (ICT) solutions in a learning context. The analysis is based on a literature survey of articles reporting research cases studying the impact of adopting ICT based solutions in various learning contexts. The subject has been reviewed…

Task 7: Endwall treatment inlet flow distortion analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hall, E. J.; Topp, D. A.; Heidegger, N. J.; McNulty, G. S.; Weber, K. F.; Delaney, R. A.

1996-01-01

The overall objective of this study was to develop a 3-D numerical analysis for compressor casing treatment flowfields, and to perform a series of detailed numerical predictions to assess the effectiveness of various endwall treatments for enhancing the efficiency and stall margin of modern high speed fan rotors. Particular attention was given to examining the effectiveness of endwall treatments to counter the undesirable effects of inflow distortion. Calculations were performed using three different gridding techniques based on the type of casing treatment being tested and the level of complexity desired in the analysis. In each case, the casing treatment itself is modeled as a discrete object in the overall analysis, and the flow through the casing treatment is determined as part of the solution. A series of calculations were performed for both treated and untreated modern fan rotors both with and without inflow distortion. The effectiveness of the various treatments were quantified, and several physical mechanisms by which the effectiveness of endwall treatments is achieved are discussed.

Accuracy Rates of Sex Estimation by Forensic Anthropologists through Comparison with DNA Typing Results in Forensic Casework.

PubMed

Thomas, Richard M; Parks, Connie L; Richard, Adam H

2016-09-01

A common task in forensic anthropology involves the estimation of the biological sex of a decedent by exploiting the sexual dimorphism between males and females. Estimation methods are often based on analysis of skeletal collections of known sex and most include a research-based accuracy rate. However, the accuracy rates of sex estimation methods in actual forensic casework have rarely been studied. This article uses sex determinations based on DNA results from 360 forensic cases to develop accuracy rates for sex estimations conducted by forensic anthropologists. The overall rate of correct sex estimation from these cases is 94.7% with increasing accuracy rates as more skeletal material is available for analysis and as the education level and certification of the examiner increases. Nine of 19 incorrect assessments resulted from cases in which one skeletal element was available, suggesting that the use of an "undetermined" result may be more appropriate for these cases. Published 2016. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.

Analytical report of the 2016 dengue outbreak in Córdoba city, Argentina.

PubMed

Rotela, Camilo; Lopez, Laura; Frías Céspedes, María; Barbas, Gabriela; Lighezzolo, Andrés; Porcasi, Ximena; Lanfri, Mario A; Scavuzzo, Carlos M; Gorla, David E

2017-11-06

After elimination of the Aedes aegypti vector in South America in the 1960s, dengue outbreaks started to reoccur during the 1990s; strongly in Argentina since 1998. In 2016, Córdoba City had the largest dengue outbreak in its history. In this article we report this outbreak including spatio-temporal analysis of cases and vectors in the city. A total of 653 dengue cases were recorded by the laboratory-based dengue surveillance system and georeferenced by their residential addresses. Case maps were generated from the epidemiological week 1 (beginning of January) to week 19 (mid-May). Dengue outbreak temporal evolution was analysed globally and three specific, high-incidence zones were detected using Knox analysis to characterising its spatio-temporal attributes. Field and remotely sensed data were collected and analysed in real time and a vector presence map based on the MaxEnt approach was generated to define hotspots, towards which the pesticide- based strategy was then targeted. The recorded pattern of cases evolution within the community suggests that dengue control measures should be improved.

Expert system for web based collaborative CAE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hou, Liang; Lin, Zusheng

2006-11-01

An expert system for web based collaborative CAE was developed based on knowledge engineering, relational database and commercial FEA (Finite element analysis) software. The architecture of the system was illustrated. In this system, the experts' experiences, theories and typical examples and other related knowledge, which will be used in the stage of pre-process in FEA, were categorized into analysis process and object knowledge. Then, the integrated knowledge model based on object-oriented method and rule based method was described. The integrated reasoning process based on CBR (case based reasoning) and rule based reasoning was presented. Finally, the analysis process of this expert system in web based CAE application was illustrated, and an analysis example of a machine tool's column was illustrated to prove the validity of the system.

Enterprise architecture availability analysis using fault trees and stakeholder interviews

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Närman, Per; Franke, Ulrik; König, Johan; Buschle, Markus; Ekstedt, Mathias

2014-01-01

The availability of enterprise information systems is a key concern for many organisations. This article describes a method for availability analysis based on Fault Tree Analysis and constructs from the ArchiMate enterprise architecture (EA) language. To test the quality of the method, several case-studies within the banking and electrical utility industries were performed. Input data were collected through stakeholder interviews. The results from the case studies were compared with availability of log data to determine the accuracy of the method's predictions. In the five cases where accurate log data were available, the yearly downtime estimates were within eight hours from the actual downtimes. The cost of performing the analysis was low; no case study required more than 20 man-hours of work, making the method ideal for practitioners with an interest in obtaining rapid availability estimates of their enterprise information systems.

Light extraction efficiency of GaN-based LED with pyramid texture by using ray path analysis.

PubMed

Pan, Jui-Wen; Wang, Chia-Shen

2012-09-10

We study three different gallium-nitride (GaN) based light emitting diode (LED) cases based on the different locations of the pyramid textures. In case 1, the pyramid texture is located on the sapphire top surface, in case 2, the pyramid texture is locate on the P-GaN top surface, while in case 3, the pyramid texture is located on both the sapphire and P-GaN top surfaces. We study the relationship between the light extraction efficiency (LEE) and angle of slant of the pyramid texture. The optimization of total LEE was highest for case 3 among the three cases. Moreover, the seven escape paths along which most of the escaped photon flux propagated were selected in a simulation of the LEDs. The seven escape paths were used to estimate the slant angle for the optimization of LEE and to precisely analyze the photon escape path.

Hearing impairment associated with oral terbinafine use: a case series and case/non-case analysis in the Netherlands Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb database and VigiBase™.

PubMed

Scholl, Joep H G; van Puijenbroek, Eugene P

2012-08-01

The Netherlands Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb received reports of six cases of hearing impairment in association with oral terbinafine use. This study describes these cases and provides support for this association from the Lareb database for spontaneous adverse drug reaction (ADR) reporting and from Vigibase™, the ADR database of the WHO Collaborating Centre for International Drug Monitoring, the Uppsala Monitoring Centre. The objective of the current study was to identify whether the observed association between oral terbinafine use and hearing impairment, based on cases received by Lareb, constitutes a safety signal. Cases of hearing impairment in oral terbinafine users are described. In a case/non-case analysis, the strength of the association in Vigibase™ and the Lareb database was determined (date of analysis August 2011) by calculating the reporting odds ratios (RORs), adjusted for possible confounding by age, sex and ototoxic concomitant medication. For the purpose of this study, RORs were calculated for deafness, hypoacusis and the combination of both, defined as hearing impairment. In the Lareb database, six reports concerning individuals aged 31-82 years, who developed hearing impairment after starting oral terbinafine, were present. The use of oral terbinafine was disproportionally associated with hypoacusis in both the Lareb database (adjusted ROR 3.9; 95% CI 1.7, 9.0) and in Vigibase™ (adjusted ROR 1.7; 95% CI 1.0, 2.8). Deafness was not disproportionally present in either of the databases. Based on the described cases and the statistical analyses from both databases, a causal relationship between the use of oral terbinafine and hearing impairment is possible. The mechanism by which terbinafine could cause hearing impairment has not been elucidated yet. The pharmacological action of terbinafine is based on the inhibition of squalene epoxidase, an enzyme present in both fungal and human cells. This inhibition might result in a decrease in cholesterol levels in human cells, among which are the outer hair cells of the cochlea. It may be possible that the reduction in cochlear cholesterol levels leads to impaired cochlear function and possibly hearing impairment. In this study we describe hearing impairment as a possible ADR of oral terbinafine, based on six case reports and statistical support from Vigibase™ and the Lareb database. To our knowledge this association has not been described before.

In Search of a Pony: Sources, Methods, Outcomes, and Motivated Reasoning.

PubMed

Stone, Marc B

2018-05-01

It is highly desirable to be able to evaluate the effect of policy interventions. Such evaluations should have expected outcomes based upon sound theory and be carefully planned, objectively evaluated and prospectively executed. In many cases, however, assessments originate with investigators' poorly substantiated beliefs about the effects of a policy. Instead of designing studies that test falsifiable hypotheses, these investigators adopt methods and data sources that serve as little more than descriptions of these beliefs in the guise of analysis. Interrupted time series analysis is one of the most popular forms of analysis used to present these beliefs. It is intuitively appealing but, in most cases, it is based upon false analogies, fallacious assumptions and analytical errors.

Mature vs. Active Deep-Seated Landslides: A Comparison Through Two Case Histories in the Alps

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Delle Piane, Luca; Perello, Paolo; Baietto, Alessandro; Giorza, Alessandra; Musso, Alessia; Gabriele, Piercarlo; Baster, Ira

2016-06-01

Two case histories are presented, concerning the still poorly known alpine deep-seated gravitational slope deformations (DSD) located nearby Lanzada (central Italian Alps), and Sarre (north-western Italian Alps). The Lanzada DSD is a constantly monitored, juvenile, and active phenomenon, partly affecting an existing hydropower plant. Its well-developed landforms allow a precise field characterization of the instability-affected area. The Sarre DSD is a mature, strongly remodeled phenomenon, where the only hazard factor is represented by secondary instability processes at the base of the slope. In this case, the remodeling imposed the adoption of complementary analytical techniques to support the field work. The two presented studies had to be adapted to external factors, namely (a) available information, (b) geological and geomorphological setting, and (c) final scope of the work. The Lanzada case essentially relied upon accurate field work; the Sarre case was mostly based on digital image and DTM processing. In both cases a sound field structural analysis formed the necessary background to understand the mechanisms leading to instability. A back-analysis of the differences between the study methods adopted in the two cases is finally presented, leading to suggestions for further investigations and design.

Biomedical image analysis and processing in clouds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bednarz, Tomasz; Szul, Piotr; Arzhaeva, Yulia; Wang, Dadong; Burdett, Neil; Khassapov, Alex; Chen, Shiping; Vallotton, Pascal; Lagerstrom, Ryan; Gureyev, Tim; Taylor, John

2013-10-01

Cloud-based Image Analysis and Processing Toolbox project runs on the Australian National eResearch Collaboration Tools and Resources (NeCTAR) cloud infrastructure and allows access to biomedical image processing and analysis services to researchers via remotely accessible user interfaces. By providing user-friendly access to cloud computing resources and new workflow-based interfaces, our solution enables researchers to carry out various challenging image analysis and reconstruction tasks. Several case studies will be presented during the conference.

Supervised machine learning algorithms to diagnose stress for vehicle drivers based on physiological sensor signals.

PubMed

Barua, Shaibal; Begum, Shahina; Ahmed, Mobyen Uddin

2015-01-01

Machine learning algorithms play an important role in computer science research. Recent advancement in sensor data collection in clinical sciences lead to a complex, heterogeneous data processing, and analysis for patient diagnosis and prognosis. Diagnosis and treatment of patients based on manual analysis of these sensor data are difficult and time consuming. Therefore, development of Knowledge-based systems to support clinicians in decision-making is important. However, it is necessary to perform experimental work to compare performances of different machine learning methods to help to select appropriate method for a specific characteristic of data sets. This paper compares classification performance of three popular machine learning methods i.e., case-based reasoning, neutral networks and support vector machine to diagnose stress of vehicle drivers using finger temperature and heart rate variability. The experimental results show that case-based reasoning outperforms other two methods in terms of classification accuracy. Case-based reasoning has achieved 80% and 86% accuracy to classify stress using finger temperature and heart rate variability. On contrary, both neural network and support vector machine have achieved less than 80% accuracy by using both physiological signals.

Exploratory Analysis in Learning Analytics

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gibson, David; de Freitas, Sara

2016-01-01

This article summarizes the methods, observations, challenges and implications for exploratory analysis drawn from two learning analytics research projects. The cases include an analysis of a games-based virtual performance assessment and an analysis of data from 52,000 students over a 5-year period at a large Australian university. The complex…

Case-based lung image categorization and retrieval for interstitial lung diseases: clinical workflows.

PubMed

Depeursinge, Adrien; Vargas, Alejandro; Gaillard, Frédéric; Platon, Alexandra; Geissbuhler, Antoine; Poletti, Pierre-Alexandre; Müller, Henning

2012-01-01

Clinical workflows and user interfaces of image-based computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) for interstitial lung diseases in high-resolution computed tomography are introduced and discussed. Three use cases are implemented to assist students, radiologists, and physicians in the diagnosis workup of interstitial lung diseases. In a first step, the proposed system shows a three-dimensional map of categorized lung tissue patterns with quantification of the diseases based on texture analysis of the lung parenchyma. Then, based on the proportions of abnormal and normal lung tissue as well as clinical data of the patients, retrieval of similar cases is enabled using a multimodal distance aggregating content-based image retrieval (CBIR) and text-based information search. The global system leads to a hybrid detection-CBIR-based CAD, where detection-based and CBIR-based CAD show to be complementary both on the user's side and on the algorithmic side. The proposed approach is in accordance with the classical workflow of clinicians searching for similar cases in textbooks and personal collections. The developed system enables objective and customizable inter-case similarity assessment, and the performance measures obtained with a leave-one-patient-out cross-validation (LOPO CV) are representative of a clinical usage of the system.

Do Concomitant Cranium and Axis Injuries Predict Worse Outcome? A Trauma Database Quantitative Analysis

PubMed Central

Chittiboina, Prashant; Banerjee, Anirban Deep; Nanda, Anil

2011-01-01

We performed a trauma database analysis to identify the effect of concomitant cranial injuries on outcome in patients with fractures of the axis. We identified patients with axis fractures over a 14-year period. A binary outcome measure was used. Univariate and multiple logistic regression analysis were performed. There were 259 cases with axis fractures. Closed head injury was noted in 57% and skull base trauma in 14%. Death occurred in 17 cases (6%). Seventy-two percent had good outcome. Presence of abnormal computed tomography head findings, skull base fractures, and visceral injury was significantly associated with poor outcome. Skull base injury in association with fractures of the axis is a significant independent predictor of worse outcomes, irrespective of the severity of the head injury. We propose that presence of concomitant cranial and upper vertebral injuries require careful evaluation in view of the associated poor prognosis. PMID:22470268

Exploring JavaScript and ROOT technologies to create Web-based ATLAS analysis and monitoring tools

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sánchez Pineda, A.

2015-12-01

We explore the potential of current web applications to create online interfaces that allow the visualization, interaction and real cut-based physics analysis and monitoring of processes through a web browser. The project consists in the initial development of web- based and cloud computing services to allow students and researchers to perform fast and very useful cut-based analysis on a browser, reading and using real data and official Monte- Carlo simulations stored in ATLAS computing facilities. Several tools are considered: ROOT, JavaScript and HTML. Our study case is the current cut-based H → ZZ → llqq analysis of the ATLAS experiment. Preliminary but satisfactory results have been obtained online.

Supercritical Fluid Extraction versus Traditional Solvent Extraction of Caffeine from Tea Leaves: A Laboratory-Based Case Study for an Organic Chemistry Course

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schaber, Peter M.; Larkin, Judith E.; Pines, Harvey A.; Berchou, Kelly; Wierchowski, Elizabeth; Marconi, Andrew; Suriani, Allison

2012-01-01

In this case-based laboratory, an instrument sales person attempts to convince an analysis laboratory of the virtues of supercritical fluid extraction (SFE). The sales person deals directly with the laboratory technicians who will make the decision. Arrangements are made to have SFE instrumentation brought into the laboratory for a comparative…

Analysis of Rare, Exonic Variation amongst Subjects with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Population Controls

PubMed Central

Liu, Li; Sabo, Aniko; Neale, Benjamin M.; Nagaswamy, Uma; Stevens, Christine; Lim, Elaine; Bodea, Corneliu A.; Muzny, Donna; Reid, Jeffrey G.; Banks, Eric; Coon, Hillary; DePristo, Mark; Dinh, Huyen; Fennel, Tim; Flannick, Jason; Gabriel, Stacey; Garimella, Kiran; Gross, Shannon; Hawes, Alicia; Lewis, Lora; Makarov, Vladimir; Maguire, Jared; Newsham, Irene; Poplin, Ryan; Ripke, Stephan; Shakir, Khalid; Samocha, Kaitlin E.; Wu, Yuanqing; Boerwinkle, Eric; Buxbaum, Joseph D.; Cook, Edwin H.; Devlin, Bernie; Schellenberg, Gerard D.; Sutcliffe, James S.; Daly, Mark J.; Gibbs, Richard A.; Roeder, Kathryn

2013-01-01

We report on results from whole-exome sequencing (WES) of 1,039 subjects diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and 870 controls selected from the NIMH repository to be of similar ancestry to cases. The WES data came from two centers using different methods to produce sequence and to call variants from it. Therefore, an initial goal was to ensure the distribution of rare variation was similar for data from different centers. This proved straightforward by filtering called variants by fraction of missing data, read depth, and balance of alternative to reference reads. Results were evaluated using seven samples sequenced at both centers and by results from the association study. Next we addressed how the data and/or results from the centers should be combined. Gene-based analyses of association was an obvious choice, but should statistics for association be combined across centers (meta-analysis) or should data be combined and then analyzed (mega-analysis)? Because of the nature of many gene-based tests, we showed by theory and simulations that mega-analysis has better power than meta-analysis. Finally, before analyzing the data for association, we explored the impact of population structure on rare variant analysis in these data. Like other recent studies, we found evidence that population structure can confound case-control studies by the clustering of rare variants in ancestry space; yet, unlike some recent studies, for these data we found that principal component-based analyses were sufficient to control for ancestry and produce test statistics with appropriate distributions. After using a variety of gene-based tests and both meta- and mega-analysis, we found no new risk genes for ASD in this sample. Our results suggest that standard gene-based tests will require much larger samples of cases and controls before being effective for gene discovery, even for a disorder like ASD. PMID:23593035

Risk factors for granuloma formation in children induced by tracheobronchial foreign bodies.

PubMed

Huang, Zhenghua; Zhou, Ai; Zhang, Jianya; Xie, Lisheng; Li, Qi

2015-12-01

The aim of this study was to analyze the risk factors for granuloma formation caused by plant-based tracheobronchial foreign bodies in children, and investigate the underlying pathogenesis. In this retrospective analysis of 153 cases with tracheobronchial foreign bodies (peanuts and watermelon seeds), 35 cases of granuloma formation as granulation group (G), and 118 cases of no granuloma formation as non-granulation group (NG) were studied. Clinical data pertaining to sex (S), age (A), foreign body surface smoothness (SF), foreign body shape (SH), foreign body oil release state (O), the location of foreign bodies (L), and foreign body retention time (T) were collected for statistical analysis. Univariate analysis showed no significant difference between the two groups (G and NG) with respect to S, A, SH and L. Significant factors based on univariate analysis included SF, O and T. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that SF and T were independent risk factors associated with development of granuloma. SF, O and T had relationship with the granuloma formation. Local trauma caused by an irregular and sharp foreign body, and extended period of time represent the main factors causing granuloma formation. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Parametric study of prospective early commercial MHD power plants (PSPEC). General Electric Company, task 1: Parametric analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Marston, C. H.; Alyea, F. N.; Bender, D. J.; Davis, L. K.; Dellinger, T. C.; Hnat, J. G.; Komito, E. H.; Peterson, C. A.; Rogers, D. A.; Roman, A. J.

1980-01-01

The performance and cost of moderate technology coal-fired open cycle MHD/steam power plant designs which can be expected to require a shorter development time and have a lower development cost than previously considered mature OCMHD/steam plants were determined. Three base cases were considered: an indirectly-fired high temperature air heater (HTAH) subsystem delivering air at 2700 F, fired by a state of the art atmospheric pressure gasifier, and the HTAH subsystem was deleted and oxygen enrichment was used to obtain requisite MHD combustion temperature. Coal pile to bus bar efficiencies in ease case 1 ranged from 41.4% to 42.9%, and cost of electricity (COE) was highest of the three base cases. For base case 2 the efficiency range was 42.0% to 45.6%, and COE was lowest. For base case 3 the efficiency range was 42.9% to 44.4%, and COE was intermediate. The best parametric cases in bases cases 2 and 3 are recommended for conceptual design. Eventual choice between these approaches is dependent on further evaluation of the tradeoffs among HTAH development risk, O2 plant integration, and further refinements of comparative costs.

Initial Multidisciplinary Design and Analysis Framework

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ozoroski, L. P.; Geiselhart, K. A.; Padula, S. L.; Li, W.; Olson, E. D.; Campbell, R. L.; Shields, E. W.; Berton, J. J.; Gray, J. S.; Jones, S. M.;

A Case of Premature Termination in a Treatment for Generalized Anxiety Disorder

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Boswell, James F.; Llera, Sandra J.; Newman, Michelle G.; Castonguay, Louis G.

2011-01-01

In this paper we present a case of failure in an integrative treatment for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) combining cognitive-behavioral therapy, an empirically supported treatment for GAD, and interpersonal-emotional processing therapy. The client of focus dropped out of treatment after the 8th session. Based on our analysis of this case, we…

Green University Initiatives in China: A Case of Tsinghua University

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zhao, Wanxia; Zou, Yonghua

2015-01-01

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to examine green university initiatives in the context of China, using Tsinghua University, which is China's green university pioneer, as a case study. Design/methodology/approach: The research method used for this paper is a case study based on participant observation and document analysis. The approach to…

American Government: An Introduction Using MicroCase with Distance Learners.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rosberg, William H.

In spring 1997, a project used MicroCase, a computer-based statistical analysis and data retrieval system, to offer an American Government class to distance students at Iowa's Kirkwood Community College (KCC). Students participated in the course at one of the college's 10 learning centers via a statewide fiber-optic network. MicroCase provided the…

Masked Visual Analysis: Minimizing Type I Error in Visually Guided Single-Case Design for Communication Disorders

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Byun, Tara McAllister; Hitchcock, Elaine R.; Ferron, John

2017-01-01

Purpose: Single-case experimental designs are widely used to study interventions for communication disorders. Traditionally, single-case experiments follow a response-guided approach, where design decisions during the study are based on participants' observed patterns of behavior. However, this approach has been criticized for its high rate of…

The Expression of the Instrumental Case in English, Hungarian, Kongo, and Nepali.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zehr, Stanley J.

An analysis of the instrumental case in four languages (English, Hungarian, Kongo, and Nepali) compares expressions of each of the deep cases of instrumentality (tool, body part, material, and force) in each language. Observations are based on a translation exercise given to native speakers of the languages and on follow-up interviews. The…

Building organizational supports for knowledge sharing in county human service organizations: a cross-case analysis of works-in-progress.

PubMed

Lee, Chris; Austin, Michael J

2012-01-01

Building on the literature related to evidence-based practice, knowledge management, and learning organizations, this cross-case analysis presents twelve works-in-progress in ten local public human service organizations seeking to develop their own knowledge sharing systems. The data for this cross-case analysis can be found in the various contributions to this Special Issue. The findings feature the developmental aspects of building a learning organization that include knowledge sharing systems featuring transparency, self-assessment, and dissemination and utilization. Implications for practice focus on the structure and processes involved in building knowledge sharing teams inside public human service organizations. Copyright © Taylor & Francis Group, LLC

Cost Utility Analysis of Topical Steroids Compared With Dietary Elimination for Treatment of Eosinophilic Esophagitis.

PubMed

Cotton, Cary C; Erim, Daniel; Eluri, Swathi; Palmer, Sarah H; Green, Daniel J; Wolf, W Asher; Runge, Thomas M; Wheeler, Stephanie; Shaheen, Nicholas J; Dellon, Evan S

2017-06-01

Topical corticosteroids or dietary elimination are recommended as first-line therapies for eosinophilic esophagitis, but data to directly compare these therapies are scant. We performed a cost utility comparison of topical corticosteroids and the 6-food elimination diet (SFED) in treatment of eosinophilic esophagitis, from the payer perspective. We used a modified Markov model based on current clinical guidelines, in which transition between states depended on histologic response simulated at the individual cohort-member level. Simulation parameters were defined by systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the base-case estimates and bounds of uncertainty for sensitivity analysis. Meta-regression models included adjustment for differences in study and cohort characteristics. In the base-case scenario, topical fluticasone was about as effective as SFED but more expensive at a 5-year time horizon ($9261.58 vs $5719.72 per person). SFED was more effective and less expensive than topical fluticasone and topical budesonide in the base-case scenario. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis revealed little uncertainty in relative treatment effectiveness. There was somewhat greater uncertainty in the relative cost of treatments; most simulations found SFED to be less expensive. In a cost utility analysis comparing topical corticosteroids and SFED for first-line treatment of eosinophilic esophagitis, the therapies were similar in effectiveness. SFED was on average less expensive, and more cost effective in most simulations, than topical budesonide and topical fluticasone, from a payer perspective and not accounting for patient-level costs or quality of life. Copyright © 2017 AGA Institute. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Artifacts and noise removal in electrocardiograms using independent component analysis.

PubMed

Chawla, M P S; Verma, H K; Kumar, Vinod

2008-09-26

Independent component analysis (ICA) is a novel technique capable of separating independent components from electrocardiogram (ECG) complex signals. The purpose of this analysis is to evaluate the effectiveness of ICA in removing artifacts and noise from ECG recordings. ICA is applied to remove artifacts and noise in ECG segments of either an individual ECG CSE data base file or all files. The reconstructed ECGs are compared with the original ECG signal. For the four special cases discussed, the R-Peak magnitudes of the CSE data base ECG waveforms before and after applying ICA are also found. In the results, it is shown that in most of the cases, the percentage error in reconstruction is very small. The results show that there is a significant improvement in signal quality, i.e. SNR. All the ECG recording cases dealt showed an improved ECG appearance after the use of ICA. This establishes the efficacy of ICA in elimination of noise and artifacts in electrocardiograms.

[Analysis of Forensic Characteristics about 23 Family Homicide Cases].

PubMed

Xie, X; Dong, X D

2016-08-01

To provide references for forensic analysis of family homicides cases by analyzing the situations of scene, injuries and individual which were related to the family homicide cases in a county. The data of 23 family homicide cases from 2004 to 2013 were collected. The basic situation of individual involved, the relationship between dead and suspect, the cause of death, the motive, the location, time and tools of the crime and the behavior of the suspect after crime etc. were analyzed. The characteristics of the 23 family homicides cases showed that couple relationship was the most common relationship; passion killing was the most common motive; local materials were mostly used as the tools for committing crimes; most crimes were committed in residences; most time of crime was night. The analysis of family homicide cases should be based on the scene investigation, the examination of the body and combined with the investigation of the situation. Copyright© by the Editorial Department of Journal of Forensic Medicine

Community-Involved Learning to Expand Possibilities for Vulnerable Children: A Critical Communicative, Sen's Capability, and Action Research Approach

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kim, Kyung Hi

2014-01-01

This research, based on a case study of vulnerable children in Korea, used a mixed methods transformative approach to explore strategies to support and help disadvantaged children. The methodological approach includes three phases: a mixed methods contextual analysis, a qualitative dominant analysis based on Sen's capability approach and critical…

Functional Technology for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities: Meta-Analysis of Mobile Device-Based Interventions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kim, Jemma; Kimm, Christina H.

2017-01-01

This study employs a meta-analysis of single-subject design research to investigate the efficacy of mobile device-based interventions for individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID) and to further examine possible variables that may moderate the intervention outcomes. A total of 23 studies, 78 participants, and 140 observed cases that met the…

Identification of a forensic case using microscopy and forensically informative nucleotide sequencing (FINS): a case study of small Indian civet (Viverricula indica).

PubMed

Sahajpal, Vivek; Goyal, S P

2010-06-01

The exhibits obtained in wildlife offence cases quite often present a challenging situation for the forensic expert. The selection of proper approach for analysis is vital for a successful analysis. A generalised forensic analysis approach should proceed from the use of non-destructive techniques (morphological and microscopic examination) to partially destructive and finally destructive techniques (DNA analysis). The findings of non-destructive techniques may sometime be inconclusive but they definitely help in steering further forensic analysis in a proper direction. We describe a recent case where a very small dried skin piece (<0.05 mg) with just one small trimmed guard hair (0.4 cm) on it was received for species identification. The single guard hair was examined microscopically to get an indication of the type of species. We also describe the extraction procedure with a lower amount of sample, using an automated extraction method (Qiagen Biorobot EZ1) and PCR amplification of three mitochondrial genes (16s rRNA, 12s rRNA and cytochrome b) for species identification. Microscopic examination of the single hair indicated a viverrid species but the initial DNA analysis with 16s rRNA (through NCBI BLAST) showed the highest homology (93%) with a hyaenid species (Hyaena hyaena). However, further DNA analysis based on 12s rRNA and cytochrome b gene proved that the species was indeed a viverrid i.e. Viverricula indica (small Indian civet). The highest homology shown with a Hyaenid species by the 16s rRNA sequence from the case sample was due to lack of a 16s rRNA sequence for Viverricula indica in the NCBI data base. The case highlights the importance of morphological and microscopic examinations in wildlife offence cases. With respect to DNA extraction technology we found that automatic extraction method of Biorobot EZ1 (Qiagen) is quite useful with less amount of sample (much below recommended amount). Copyright 2009 Forensic Science Society. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Empirical Analysis and Refinement of Expert System Knowledge Bases

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-08-31

refinement. Both a simulated case generation program, and a random rule basher were developed to enhance rule refinement experimentation. *Substantial...the second fiscal year 88 objective was fully met. Rule Refinement System Simulated Rule Basher Case Generator Stored Cases Expert System Knowledge...generated until the rule is satisfied. Cases may be randomly generated for a given rule or hypothesis. Rule Basher Given that one has a correct

Effect of digital problem-based learning cases on student learning outcomes in ophthalmology courses.

PubMed

Kong, Jun; Li, Xiaoyan; Wang, Youdong; Sun, Wei; Zhang, Jinsong

2009-09-01

To assess the impact of digital problem-based learning (PBL) cases on student learning in ophthalmology courses. Ninety students were randomly divided into 3 classes (30 students per class). The first class studied under a didactic model. The other 2 classes were divided into 6 groups (10 students per group) and received PBL teaching; 3 groups studied via cases presented in digital form and the others studied via paper-form cases. The results of theoretical and case analysis examinations were analyzed using the chi(2) test. Student performance on the interval practice was analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test. Questionnaires were used to evaluate student and facilitator perceptions. Students in the digital groups exhibited better performance in the practice procedures according to tutorial evaluations compared with the other groups (P < .05). The 2 PBL classes had significantly higher mean results of theoretical and case analysis examinations (P < .001), but there was no significant difference between the 2 PBL classes. Ninety-three percent of students in the digital groups (vs 73% in the paper groups) noted that the cases greatly stimulated their interest. Introducing PBL into ophthalmology could improve educational quality and effectiveness. Digital PBL cases stimulate interest and motivate students to further improve diagnosis and problem-handling skills.

Inquiry-based Science Instruction in High School Biology Courses: A Multiple Case Study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aso, Eze

A lack of research exists about how secondary school science teachers use inquiry-based instruction to improve student learning. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore how science teachers used inquiry-based instruction to improve student learning in high school biology courses. The conceptual framework was based on Banchi and Bell's model of increasing levels of complexity for inquiry-based instruction. A multiple case study research design was conducted of biology programs at 3 high schools in an urban school district in the northeastern region of the United States. Participants included 2 biology teachers from each of the 3 high schools. Data were collected from individual interviews with biology teachers, observations of lessons in biology, and documents related to state standards, assessments, and professional development. The first level of data analysis involved coding and categorizing the interview and observation data. A content analysis was used for the documents. The second level of data analysis involved examining data across all sources and all cases for themes and discrepancies. According to study findings, biology teachers used confirmation, structure, and guided inquiry to improve student learning. However, they found open inquiry challenging and frustrating to implement because professional development about scaffolding of instruction over time was needed, and students' reading and writing skills needed to improve. This study contributes to positive social change by providing educators and researchers with a deeper understanding about how to scaffold levels of inquiry-based science instruction in order to help students become scientifically literate citizens.

Watch what happens: using a web-based multimedia platform to enhance intraoperative learning and development of clinical reasoning.

PubMed

Fingeret, Abbey L; Martinez, Rebecca H; Hsieh, Christine; Downey, Peter; Nowygrod, Roman

2016-02-01

We aim to determine whether observed operations or internet-based video review predict improved performance in the surgery clerkship. A retrospective review of students' usage of surgical videos, observed operations, evaluations, and examination scores were used to construct an exploratory principal component analysis. Multivariate regression was used to determine factors predictive of clerkship performance. Case log data for 231 students revealed a median of 25 observed cases. Students accessed the web-based video platform a median of 15 times. Principal component analysis yielded 4 factors contributing 74% of the variability with a Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin coefficient of .83. Multivariate regression predicted shelf score (P < .0001), internal clinical skills examination score (P < .0001), subjective evaluations (P < .001), and video website utilization (P < .001) but not observed cases to be significantly associated with overall performance. Utilization of a web-based operative video platform during a surgical clerkship is an independently associated with improved clinical reasoning, fund of knowledge, and overall evaluation. Thus, this modality can serve as a useful adjunct to live observation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Sensitivity analysis of the add-on price estimate for the silicon web growth process

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mokashi, A. R.

1981-01-01

The web growth process, a silicon-sheet technology option, developed for the flat plate solar array (FSA) project, was examined. Base case data for the technical and cost parameters for the technical and commercial readiness phase of the FSA project are projected. The process add on price, using the base case data for cost parameters such as equipment, space, direct labor, materials and utilities, and the production parameters such as growth rate and run length, using a computer program developed specifically to do the sensitivity analysis with improved price estimation are analyzed. Silicon price, sheet thickness and cell efficiency are also discussed.

DEVELOPMENT OF A NOVEL GAS PRESSURIZED STRIPPING (GPS)-BASED TECHNOLOGY FOR CO 2 CAPTURE FROM POST-COMBUSTION FLUE GASES Topical Report: Techno-Economic Analysis of GPS-based Technology for CO 2 Capture

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

Chen, Shiaoguo

This topical report presents the techno-economic analysis, conducted by Carbon Capture Scientific, LLC (CCS) and Nexant, for a nominal 550 MWe supercritical pulverized coal (PC) power plant utilizing CCS patented Gas Pressurized Stripping (GPS) technology for post-combustion carbon capture (PCC). Illinois No. 6 coal is used as fuel. Because of the difference in performance between the GPS-based PCC and the MEA-based CO2 absorption technology, the net power output of this plant is not exactly 550 MWe. DOE/NETL Case 11 supercritical PC plant without CO2 capture and Case 12 supercritical PC plant with benchmark MEA-based CO2 capture are chosen as references.more » In order to include CO2 compression process for the baseline case, CCS independently evaluated the generic 30 wt% MEA-based PCC process together with the CO2 compression section. The net power produced in the supercritical PC plant with GPS-based PCC is 647 MW, greater than the MEA-based design. The levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) over a 20-year period is adopted to assess techno-economic performance. The LCOE for the supercritical PC plant with GPS-based PCC, not considering CO2 transport, storage and monitoring (TS&M), is 97.4 mills/kWh, or 152% of the Case 11 supercritical PC plant without CO2 capture, equivalent to $39.6/tonne for the cost of CO2 capture. GPS-based PCC is also significantly superior to the generic MEA-based PCC with CO2 compression section, whose LCOE is as high as 109.6 mills/kWh.« less

Emergy analysis of an industrial park: the case of Dalian, China.

PubMed

Geng, Yong; Zhang, Pan; Ulgiati, Sergio; Sarkis, Joseph

2010-10-15

With the rapid development of eco-industrial park projects in China, evaluating their overall eco-efficiency is becoming an important need and a big challenge academically. Developing ecologically conscious industrial park management requires analysis of both industrial and ecological systems. Traditional evaluation methods based on neoclassical economics and embodied energy and exergy analyses have certain limitations due to their focus with environmental issues considered secondary to the maximization of economic and technical objectives. Such methods focus primarily on the environmental impact of emissions and their economic consequences. These approaches ignore the contribution of ecological products and services as well as the load placed on environmental systems and related problems of carrying capacity of economic and industrial development. This paper presents a new method, based upon emergy analysis and synthesis. Such a method links economic and ecological systems together, highlighting the internal relations among the different subsystems and components. The emergy-based method provides insight into the environmental performance and sustainability of an industrial park. This paper depicts the methodology of emergy analysis at the industrial park level and provides a series of emergy-based indices. A case study is investigated and discussed in order to show the emergy method's practical potential. Results from DEDZ (Dalian Economic Development Zone) case show us the potential of emergy synthesis method at the industrial park level for environmental policy making. Its advantages and limitations are also discussed with avenues for future research identified. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Ageing of Insensitive DNAN Based Melt-Cast Explosives

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-08-01

diurnal cycle (representative of the MEAO climate). Analysis of the ingredient composition, sensitiveness, mechanical and thermal properties was...first test condition was chosen to provide a worst-case scenario. Analysis of the ingredient composition, theoretical maximum density, sensitiveness...5 4.1.1 ARX-4027 Ingredient Analysis .............................................................. 5 4.1.2 ARX-4028 Ingredient Analysis

Applying CBR to machine tool product configuration design oriented to customer requirements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Pengjia; Gong, Yadong; Xie, Hualong; Liu, Yongxian; Nee, Andrew Yehching

2017-01-01

Product customization is a trend in the current market-oriented manufacturing environment. However, deduction from customer requirements to design results and evaluation of design alternatives are still heavily reliant on the designer's experience and knowledge. To solve the problem of fuzziness and uncertainty of customer requirements in product configuration, an analysis method based on the grey rough model is presented. The customer requirements can be converted into technical characteristics effectively. In addition, an optimization decision model for product planning is established to help the enterprises select the key technical characteristics under the constraints of cost and time to serve the customer to maximal satisfaction. A new case retrieval approach that combines the self-organizing map and fuzzy similarity priority ratio method is proposed in case-based design. The self-organizing map can reduce the retrieval range and increase the retrieval efficiency, and the fuzzy similarity priority ratio method can evaluate the similarity of cases comprehensively. To ensure that the final case has the best overall performance, an evaluation method of similar cases based on grey correlation analysis is proposed to evaluate similar cases to select the most suitable case. Furthermore, a computer-aided system is developed using MATLAB GUI to assist the product configuration design. The actual example and result on an ETC series machine tool product show that the proposed method is effective, rapid and accurate in the process of product configuration. The proposed methodology provides a detailed instruction for the product configuration design oriented to customer requirements.

A One-Year Case Study: Understanding the Rich Potential of Project-Based Learning in a Virtual Reality Class for High School Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Morales, Teresa M.; Bang, EunJin; Andre, Thomas

2013-01-01

This paper presents a qualitative case analysis of a new and unique, high school, student-directed, project-based learning (PBL), virtual reality (VR) class. In order to create projects, students learned, on an independent basis, how to program an industrial-level VR machine. A constraint was that students were required to produce at least one…

School-Based Peer-Related Social Competence Interventions for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Meta-Analysis and Descriptive Review of Single Case Research Design Studies

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Whalon, Kelly J.; Conroy, Maureen A.; Martinez, Jose R.; Werch, Brittany L.

2015-01-01

The purpose of this review was to critically examine and summarize the impact of school-based interventions designed to facilitate the peer-related social competence of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Reviewed studies employed a single-case experimental design, targeted peer-related social competence, included children 3-12 years old…

A Case Analysis of a Model Program for the Leadership Development of Women Faculty and Staff Seeking to Advance Their Careers in Higher Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Calizo, Lee Scherer Hawthorne

2011-01-01

The purpose of this case study was to explore a model of leadership development for women faculty and staff in higher education. This study is significant because it explored the only identified campus-based program open to both faculty and staff. The campus-based Women's Institute for Leadership Development (WILD) program at the University of…

Case-based Influence in Conflict Management

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-10-31

AFRL-OSR-VA-TR-2014-0337 CASE-BASED INFLUENCE IN CONFLICT MANAGEMENT Robert Axelrod ARTIS RESEARCH & RISK MODELING Final Report 10/31/2014...FA9550-10-1-0373 Dr. Robert Axelrod - PI Dr. Richard Davis- PD ARTIS Research & Risk Modeling ARTIS 5741 Canyon Ridge North Cave Creek, AZ 85331-9318...analysis of the timing of cyber conflict that quickly received attention from over 30 countries. 3 1 Axelrod , Final Report and Publications Final

Locating and classifying defects using an hybrid data base

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luna-Avilés, A.; Hernández-Gómez, L. H.; Durodola, J. F.; Urriolagoitia-Calderón, G.; Urriolagoitia-Sosa, G.; Beltrán Fernández, J. A.; Díaz Pineda, A.

2011-07-01

A computational inverse technique was used in the localization and classification of defects. Postulated voids of two different sizes (2 mm and 4 mm diameter) were introduced in PMMA bars with and without a notch. The bar dimensions are 200×20×5 mm. One half of them were plain and the other half has a notch (3 mm × 4 mm) which is close to the defect area (19 mm × 16 mm).This analysis was done with an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) and its optimization was done with an Adaptive Neuro Fuzzy Procedure (ANFIS). A hybrid data base was developed with numerical and experimental results. Synthetic data was generated with the finite element method using SOLID95 element of ANSYS code. A parametric analysis was carried out. Only one defect in such bars was taken into account and the first five natural frequencies were calculated. 460 cases were evaluated. Half of them were plain and the other half has a notch. All the input data was classified in two groups. Each one has 230 cases and corresponds to one of the two sort of voids mentioned above. On the other hand, experimental analysis was carried on with PMMA specimens of the same size. The first two natural frequencies of 40 cases were obtained with one void. The other three frequencies were obtained numerically. 20 of these bars were plain and the others have a notch. These experimental results were introduced in the synthetic data base. 400 cases were taken randomly and, with this information, the ANN was trained with the backpropagation algorithm. The accuracy of the results was tested with the 100 cases that were left. In the next stage of this work, the ANN output was optimized with ANFIS. Previous papers showed that localization and classification of defects was reduced as notches were introduced in such bars. In the case of this paper, improved results were obtained when a hybrid data base was used.

Using ancestry matching to combine family-based and unrelated samples for genome-wide association studies‡

PubMed Central

Crossett, Andrew; Kent, Brian P.; Klei, Lambertus; Ringquist, Steven; Trucco, Massimo; Roeder, Kathryn; Devlin, Bernie

2015-01-01

We propose a method to analyze family-based samples together with unrelated cases and controls. The method builds on the idea of matched case–control analysis using conditional logistic regression (CLR). For each trio within the family, a case (the proband) and matched pseudo-controls are constructed, based upon the transmitted and untransmitted alleles. Unrelated controls, matched by genetic ancestry, supplement the sample of pseudo-controls; likewise unrelated cases are also paired with genetically matched controls. Within each matched stratum, the case genotype is contrasted with control pseudo-control genotypes via CLR, using a method we call matched-CLR (mCLR). Eigenanalysis of numerous SNP genotypes provides a tool for mapping genetic ancestry. The result of such an analysis can be thought of as a multidimensional map, or eigenmap, in which the relative genetic similarities and differences amongst individuals is encoded in the map. Once constructed, new individuals can be projected onto the ancestry map based on their genotypes. Successful differentiation of individuals of distinct ancestry depends on having a diverse, yet representative sample from which to construct the ancestry map. Once samples are well-matched, mCLR yields comparable power to competing methods while ensuring excellent control over Type I error. PMID:20862653

Training Needs Analysis and Evaluation for New Technologies through the Use of Problem-Based Inquiry

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Casey, Matthew Scott; Doverspike, Dennis

2005-01-01

The analysis of calls to a help desk, in this case calls to a computer help desk, can serve as a rich source of information on the real world problems that individuals are having with the implementation of a new technology. Thus, we propose that an analysis of help desk calls, a form of problem-based inquiry, can serve as a fast and low cost means…

Cooperation, Technology, and Performance: A Case Study.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cavanagh, Thomas; Dickenson, Sabrina; Brandt, Suzanne

1999-01-01

Describes the CTP (Cooperation, Technology, and Performance) model and explains how it is used by the Department of Veterans Affairs-Veteran's Benefit Administration (VBA) for training. Discusses task analysis; computer-based training; cooperative-based learning environments; technology-based learning; performance-assessment methods; courseware…

Modeling the outcomes of nursing home care.

PubMed

Rohrer, J E; Hogan, A J

1987-01-01

In this exploratory analysis using data on 290 patients, we use regression analysis to model patient outcomes in two Veterans Administration nursing homes. We find resource use, as measured with minutes of nursing time, to be associated with outcomes when case mix is controlled. Our results suggest that, under case-based reimbursement systems, nursing homes could increase their revenues by withholding unskilled and psychosocial care and discouraging physicians' visits. Implications for nursing home policy are discussed.

Public hospital resource allocations in El Salvador: accounting for the case mix of patients.

PubMed

Fiedler, J L; Schmidt, R M; Wight, J B

1998-09-01

National hospitals in developing countries command a disproportionate share of medical care budgets, justified on the grounds that they have a more difficult patient case mix and higher occupancy rates than decentralized district hospitals or clinics. This paper empirically tests the hypothesis by developing direct measures of the severity of patient illness, hospital case-mix and a resource intensity index for each of El Salvador's public hospitals. Based on an analysis of inpatient care staffing requirements, national hospitals are found to receive funding far in excess of what case-mix and case-load considerations would warrant. The findings suggest that significant system-wide efficiency gains can be realized by allocating hospital budgets on the bases of performance-related criteria which incorporate the case-mix approach developed here.

Drugs & the Brain: Case-based Instruction for an Undergraduate Neuropharmacology Course.

PubMed

Nagel, Anastasia; Nicholas, Andrea

2017-01-01

In order to transform a traditional large non-majors general education (GE) neurobiology lecture (Drugs & the Brain) into an active learning course, we developed a series of directed mini-cases targeting major drug classes. Humorous and captivating case-based situations were used to better engage and motivate students to solve problems related to neuropharmacology and physiology. Here we provide directed cases, questions and learning outcomes for our opiates mini-cases. In addition, we describe how case studies were incorporated into our course and assessed using peer review and online quizzing. An in-depth analysis of the overall course transformation on student exam performance, opinions and instructor evaluations can be found in the JUNE article Don't Believe the Gripe! Increasing Course Structure in a Large Non-majors Neuroscience Course.

Decision support environment for medical product safety surveillance.

PubMed

Botsis, Taxiarchis; Jankosky, Christopher; Arya, Deepa; Kreimeyer, Kory; Foster, Matthew; Pandey, Abhishek; Wang, Wei; Zhang, Guangfan; Forshee, Richard; Goud, Ravi; Menschik, David; Walderhaug, Mark; Woo, Emily Jane; Scott, John

2016-12-01

We have developed a Decision Support Environment (DSE) for medical experts at the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The DSE contains two integrated systems: The Event-based Text-mining of Health Electronic Records (ETHER) and the Pattern-based and Advanced Network Analyzer for Clinical Evaluation and Assessment (PANACEA). These systems assist medical experts in reviewing reports submitted to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) and the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). In this manuscript, we describe the DSE architecture and key functionalities, and examine its potential contributions to the signal management process by focusing on four use cases: the identification of missing cases from a case series, the identification of duplicate case reports, retrieving cases for a case series analysis, and community detection for signal identification and characterization. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Effectiveness Information and Institutional Change: An Exploratory Analysis.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ewell, Peter T.

Factors that affect the implementation of information-based improvements in college instruction and decision-making are considered, based on a conceptual scheme for comparing information-based change efforts. Based on a student outcomes project, eight brief case studies of public colleges illustrate different patterns leading to successful use of…

Reasoning and Data Representation in a Health and Lifestyle Support System.

PubMed

Hanke, Sten; Kreiner, Karl; Kropf, Johannes; Scase, Marc; Gossy, Christian

2017-01-01

Case-based reasoning and data interpretation is an artificial intelligence approach that capitalizes on past experience to solve current problems and this can be used as a method for practical intelligent systems. Case-based data reasoning is able to provide decision support for experts and clinicians in health systems as well as lifestyle systems. In this project we were focusing on developing a solution for healthy ageing considering daily activities, nutrition as well as cognitive activities. The data analysis of the reasoner followed state of the art guidelines from clinical practice. Guidelines provide a general framework to guide clinicians, and require consequent background knowledge to become operational, which is precisely the kind of information recorded in practice cases; cases complement guidelines very well and helps to interpret them. It is expected that the interest in case-based reasoning systems in the health.

The 1992-1993 advanced design program. Part 1: The Mars methane engine project. Part 2: The Mars oxygen processor new furnace

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lauer, Stephen; Hoover, Scott; Lawrence, Lori; Paparistodemou, Christos; Taylor, Doug

1993-04-01

Three constituents of the Martian atmosphere, methane, carbon dioxide, and oxygen, can be used for internal combustion in engines utilized for future space exploration on Mars. These three gases, considered as the test case in this research, will be examined to determine required flow rates needed for combustion and optimization of engine performance. Results of the test case are examined in relation to a base case of methane and air for comparative purposes. Testing of exhaust temperatures, cylinder pressure, and exhaust gas analysis were performed for the base case and test case. Also described is a study utilizing a zirconia cell to convert carbon dioxide into usable oxygen to help support future Mars missions.

The 1992-1993 advanced design program. Part 1: The Mars methane engine project. Part 2: The Mars oxygen processor new furnace

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lauer, Stephen; Hoover, Scott; Lawrence, Lori; Paparistodemou, Christos; Taylor, Doug

1993-01-01

Three constituents of the Martian atmosphere, methane, carbon dioxide, and oxygen, can be used for internal combustion in engines utilized for future space exploration on Mars. These three gases, considered as the test case in this research, will be examined to determine required flow rates needed for combustion and optimization of engine performance. Results of the test case are examined in relation to a base case of methane and air for comparative purposes. Testing of exhaust temperatures, cylinder pressure, and exhaust gas analysis were performed for the base case and test case. Also described is a study utilizing a zirconia cell to convert carbon dioxide into usable oxygen to help support future Mars missions.

Partial differential equation-based approach for empirical mode decomposition: application on image analysis.

PubMed

Niang, Oumar; Thioune, Abdoulaye; El Gueirea, Mouhamed Cheikh; Deléchelle, Eric; Lemoine, Jacques

2012-09-01

The major problem with the empirical mode decomposition (EMD) algorithm is its lack of a theoretical framework. So, it is difficult to characterize and evaluate this approach. In this paper, we propose, in the 2-D case, the use of an alternative implementation to the algorithmic definition of the so-called "sifting process" used in the original Huang's EMD method. This approach, especially based on partial differential equations (PDEs), was presented by Niang in previous works, in 2005 and 2007, and relies on a nonlinear diffusion-based filtering process to solve the mean envelope estimation problem. In the 1-D case, the efficiency of the PDE-based method, compared to the original EMD algorithmic version, was also illustrated in a recent paper. Recently, several 2-D extensions of the EMD method have been proposed. Despite some effort, 2-D versions for EMD appear poorly performing and are very time consuming. So in this paper, an extension to the 2-D space of the PDE-based approach is extensively described. This approach has been applied in cases of both signal and image decomposition. The obtained results confirm the usefulness of the new PDE-based sifting process for the decomposition of various kinds of data. Some results have been provided in the case of image decomposition. The effectiveness of the approach encourages its use in a number of signal and image applications such as denoising, detrending, or texture analysis.

Semiparametric Bayesian analysis of gene-environment interactions with error in measurement of environmental covariates and missing genetic data.

PubMed

Lobach, Iryna; Mallick, Bani; Carroll, Raymond J

2011-01-01

Case-control studies are widely used to detect gene-environment interactions in the etiology of complex diseases. Many variables that are of interest to biomedical researchers are difficult to measure on an individual level, e.g. nutrient intake, cigarette smoking exposure, long-term toxic exposure. Measurement error causes bias in parameter estimates, thus masking key features of data and leading to loss of power and spurious/masked associations. We develop a Bayesian methodology for analysis of case-control studies for the case when measurement error is present in an environmental covariate and the genetic variable has missing data. This approach offers several advantages. It allows prior information to enter the model to make estimation and inference more precise. The environmental covariates measured exactly are modeled completely nonparametrically. Further, information about the probability of disease can be incorporated in the estimation procedure to improve quality of parameter estimates, what cannot be done in conventional case-control studies. A unique feature of the procedure under investigation is that the analysis is based on a pseudo-likelihood function therefore conventional Bayesian techniques may not be technically correct. We propose an approach using Markov Chain Monte Carlo sampling as well as a computationally simple method based on an asymptotic posterior distribution. Simulation experiments demonstrated that our method produced parameter estimates that are nearly unbiased even for small sample sizes. An application of our method is illustrated using a population-based case-control study of the association between calcium intake with the risk of colorectal adenoma development.

A Comparative Analysis of Collaborative Leadership Skills Employed by Graduates of Cohort Based and Non-Cohort Based Doctoral Programs in Eduational Leadership

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Breton Caminos, Michelle Evangeline

2015-01-01

This qualitative comparative case analysis investigates the leadership approaches of the graduates of two educational leadership doctoral programs in Upstate New York--one a cohort-modeled program, the other a non-cohort program--with specific attention to collaboration. Responses from participants indicate key differences in Engaging Communities,…

The Ophidia framework: toward cloud-based data analytics for climate change

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fiore, Sandro; D'Anca, Alessandro; Elia, Donatello; Mancini, Marco; Mariello, Andrea; Mirto, Maria; Palazzo, Cosimo; Aloisio, Giovanni

2015-04-01

The Ophidia project is a research effort on big data analytics facing scientific data analysis challenges in the climate change domain. It provides parallel (server-side) data analysis, an internal storage model and a hierarchical data organization to manage large amount of multidimensional scientific data. The Ophidia analytics platform provides several MPI-based parallel operators to manipulate large datasets (data cubes) and array-based primitives to perform data analysis on large arrays of scientific data. The most relevant data analytics use cases implemented in national and international projects target fire danger prevention (OFIDIA), interactions between climate change and biodiversity (EUBrazilCC), climate indicators and remote data analysis (CLIP-C), sea situational awareness (TESSA), large scale data analytics on CMIP5 data in NetCDF format, Climate and Forecast (CF) convention compliant (ExArch). Two use cases regarding the EU FP7 EUBrazil Cloud Connect and the INTERREG OFIDIA projects will be presented during the talk. In the former case (EUBrazilCC) the Ophidia framework is being extended to integrate scalable VM-based solutions for the management of large volumes of scientific data (both climate and satellite data) in a cloud-based environment to study how climate change affects biodiversity. In the latter one (OFIDIA) the data analytics framework is being exploited to provide operational support regarding processing chains devoted to fire danger prevention. To tackle the project challenges, data analytics workflows consisting of about 130 operators perform, among the others, parallel data analysis, metadata management, virtual file system tasks, maps generation, rolling of datasets, import/export of datasets in NetCDF format. Finally, the entire Ophidia software stack has been deployed at CMCC on 24-nodes (16-cores/node) of the Athena HPC cluster. Moreover, a cloud-based release tested with OpenNebula is also available and running in the private cloud infrastructure of the CMCC Supercomputing Centre.

[Application and case analysis on the problem-based teaching of Jingluo Shuxue Xue (Science of Meridian and Acupoint) in reference to the team oriented learning method].

PubMed

Ma, Ruijie; Lin, Xianming

2015-12-01

The problem based teaching (PBT) has been the main approach to the training in the universities o the world. Combined with the team oriented learning method, PBT will become the method available to the education in medical universities. In the paper, based on the common questions in teaching Jingluo Shuxue Xue (Science of Meridian and Acupoint), the concepts and characters of PBT and the team oriented learning method were analyzed. The implementation steps of PBT were set up in reference to the team oriented learning method. By quoting the original text in Beiji Qianjin Yaofang (Essential recipes for emergent use worth a thousand gold), the case analysis on "the thirteen devil points" was established with PBT.

Precessing rotating flows with additional shear: stability analysis.

PubMed

Salhi, A; Cambon, C

2009-03-01

We consider unbounded precessing rotating flows in which vertical or horizontal shear is induced by the interaction between the solid-body rotation (with angular velocity Omega(0)) and the additional "precessing" Coriolis force (with angular velocity -epsilonOmega(0)), normal to it. A "weak" shear flow, with rate 2epsilon of the same order of the Poincaré "small" ratio epsilon , is needed for balancing the gyroscopic torque, so that the whole flow satisfies Euler's equations in the precessing frame (the so-called admissibility conditions). The base flow case with vertical shear (its cross-gradient direction is aligned with the main angular velocity) corresponds to Mahalov's [Phys. Fluids A 5, 891 (1993)] precessing infinite cylinder base flow (ignoring boundary conditions), while the base flow case with horizontal shear (its cross-gradient direction is normal to both main and precessing angular velocities) corresponds to the unbounded precessing rotating shear flow considered by Kerswell [Geophys. Astrophys. Fluid Dyn. 72, 107 (1993)]. We show that both these base flows satisfy the admissibility conditions and can support disturbances in terms of advected Fourier modes. Because the admissibility conditions cannot select one case with respect to the other, a more physical derivation is sought: Both flows are deduced from Poincaré's [Bull. Astron. 27, 321 (1910)] basic state of a precessing spheroidal container, in the limit of small epsilon . A Rapid distortion theory (RDT) type of stability analysis is then performed for the previously mentioned disturbances, for both base flows. The stability analysis of the Kerswell base flow, using Floquet's theory, is recovered, and its counterpart for the Mahalov base flow is presented. Typical growth rates are found to be the same for both flows at very small epsilon , but significant differences are obtained regarding growth rates and widths of instability bands, if larger epsilon values, up to 0.2, are considered. Finally, both flow cases are briefly discussed in view of a subsequent nonlinear study using pseudospectral direct numerical simulations, which is a natural continuation of RDT.

Shared Decision-Making and the Limits of Democratization: A Case Study of Site-Based Reform.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Radnofsky, Mary L.; Spielmann, Guy

This paper presents findings of an ethnographic study of a school district's Staff Development, Supervision, and Evaluation Program (SDSEP). Data were gathered through interviews, observations, participant observation, analysis of kinesics and proxemics, semiotic analysis of discourse, unobtrusive measures, and analysis of official documents. The…

Clustering "N" Objects into "K" Groups under Optimal Scaling of Variables.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

van Buuren, Stef; Heiser, Willem J.

1989-01-01

A method based on homogeneity analysis (multiple correspondence analysis or multiple scaling) is proposed to reduce many categorical variables to one variable with "k" categories. The method is a generalization of the sum of squared distances cluster analysis problem to the case of mixed measurement level variables. (SLD)

A web-based endodontic case difficulty assessment tool.

PubMed

Shah, P K; Chong, B S

2018-07-01

To develop a web-based tool to facilitate identification, evaluation and management of teeth requiring endodontic treatment. Following a literature search and thorough analysis of existing case difficulty assessment forms, the web-based tool was developed using an online survey builder (Qualtrics, Qualtrics Lab, UT, USA). Following feedback from a pilot study, it was refined and improved. A study was performed, using the updated version (EndoApp) on a cohort (n = 53) of dental professionals and dental students. The participants were e-mailed instructions detailing the assessment of five test cases using EndoApp, followed by completion of a structured feedback form. Analysis of the EndoApp responses was used to evaluate usage times, whereas the results of the feedback forms were used to assess user experience and relevance, other potential applications and comments on further improvement/s. The average usage time was 2 min 7 s; the average times needed for the last three (Cases 3-5) were significantly less than the preceding two (Cases 1 & 2) test cases. An overwhelming majority of participants expressed favourable views on user experience and relevance of the web-based case difficulty assessment tool. Only two participants (4%) were unlikely or very unlikely to use EndoApp again. The potential application of EndoApp as an 'educational tool' and for 'primary care triage' was deemed the most popular features and of greater importance than the secondary options of 'fee setting' and as a 'dento-legal justification tool'. Within the study limitations, owing to its ability to quantify the level of difficulty and provide guidance, EndoApp was considered user-friendly and helped facilitate endodontic case difficulty assessment. From the feedback, further improvements and the development of a Smartphone App version are in progress. EndoApp may facilitate treatment planning, improve treatment cost-effectiveness and reduce frequency of procedural errors by providing appropriate guidance on endodontic case management.

Gene Model Annotations for Drosophila melanogaster: The Rule-Benders

PubMed Central

Crosby, Madeline A.; Gramates, L. Sian; dos Santos, Gilberto; Matthews, Beverley B.; St. Pierre, Susan E.; Zhou, Pinglei; Schroeder, Andrew J.; Falls, Kathleen; Emmert, David B.; Russo, Susan M.; Gelbart, William M.

2015-01-01

In the context of the FlyBase annotated gene models in Drosophila melanogaster, we describe the many exceptional cases we have curated from the literature or identified in the course of FlyBase analysis. These range from atypical but common examples such as dicistronic and polycistronic transcripts, noncanonical splices, trans-spliced transcripts, noncanonical translation starts, and stop-codon readthroughs, to single exceptional cases such as ribosomal frameshifting and HAC1-type intron processing. In FlyBase, exceptional genes and transcripts are flagged with Sequence Ontology terms and/or standardized comments. Because some of the rule-benders create problems for handlers of high-throughput data, we discuss plans for flagging these cases in bulk data downloads. PMID:26109356

Analysis of risk factors for schizophrenia with two different case definitions: a nationwide register-based external validation study.

PubMed

Sørensen, Holger J; Larsen, Janne T; Mors, Ole; Nordentoft, Merete; Mortensen, Preben B; Petersen, Liselotte

2015-03-01

Different case definitions of schizophrenia have been used in register based research. However, no previous study has externally validated two different case definitions of schizophrenia against a wide range of risk factors for schizophrenia. We investigated hazard ratios (HRs) for a wide range of risk factors for ICD-10 DCR schizophrenia using a nationwide Danish sample of 2,772,144 residents born in 1955-1997. We compared one contact only (OCO) (the case definition of schizophrenia used in Danish register based studies) with two or more contacts (TMC) (a case definition of at least 2 inpatient contacts with schizophrenia). During the follow-up, the OCO definition included 15,074 and the TMC 7562 cases; i.e. half as many. The TMC case definition appeared to select for a worse illness course. A wide range of risk factors were uniformly associated with both case definitions and only slightly higher risk estimates were found for the TMC definition. Choosing at least 2 inpatient contacts with schizophrenia (TMC) instead of the currently used case definition would result in almost similar risk estimates for many well-established risk factors. However, this would also introduce selection and include considerably fewer cases and reduce power of e.g. genetic studies based on register-diagnosed cases only. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Integrating enzyme fermentation in lignocellulosic ethanol production: life-cycle assessment and techno-economic analysis.

PubMed

Olofsson, Johanna; Barta, Zsolt; Börjesson, Pål; Wallberg, Ola

2017-01-01

Cellulase enzymes have been reported to contribute with a significant share of the total costs and greenhouse gas emissions of lignocellulosic ethanol production today. A potential future alternative to purchasing enzymes from an off-site manufacturer is to integrate enzyme and ethanol production, using microorganisms and part of the lignocellulosic material as feedstock for enzymes. This study modelled two such integrated process designs for ethanol from logging residues from spruce production, and compared it to an off-site case based on existing data regarding purchased enzymes. Greenhouse gas emissions and primary energy balances were studied in a life-cycle assessment, and cost performance in a techno-economic analysis. The base case scenario suggests that greenhouse gas emissions per MJ of ethanol could be significantly lower in the integrated cases than in the off-site case. However, the difference between the integrated and off-site cases is reduced with alternative assumptions regarding enzyme dosage and the environmental impact of the purchased enzymes. The comparison of primary energy balances did not show any significant difference between the cases. The minimum ethanol selling price, to reach break-even costs, was from 0.568 to 0.622 EUR L -1 for the integrated cases, as compared to 0.581 EUR L -1 for the off-site case. An integrated process design could reduce greenhouse gas emissions from lignocellulose-based ethanol production, and the cost of an integrated process could be comparable to purchasing enzymes produced off-site. This study focused on the environmental and economic assessment of an integrated process, and in order to strengthen the comparison to the off-site case, more detailed and updated data regarding industrial off-site enzyme production are especially important.

NASA Applications and Lessons Learned in Reliability Engineering

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Safie, Fayssal M.; Fuller, Raymond P.

2011-01-01

Since the Shuttle Challenger accident in 1986, communities across NASA have been developing and extensively using quantitative reliability and risk assessment methods in their decision making process. This paper discusses several reliability engineering applications that NASA has used over the year to support the design, development, and operation of critical space flight hardware. Specifically, the paper discusses several reliability engineering applications used by NASA in areas such as risk management, inspection policies, components upgrades, reliability growth, integrated failure analysis, and physics based probabilistic engineering analysis. In each of these areas, the paper provides a brief discussion of a case study to demonstrate the value added and the criticality of reliability engineering in supporting NASA project and program decisions to fly safely. Examples of these case studies discussed are reliability based life limit extension of Shuttle Space Main Engine (SSME) hardware, Reliability based inspection policies for Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) turbine disc, probabilistic structural engineering analysis for reliability prediction of the SSME alternate turbo-pump development, impact of ET foam reliability on the Space Shuttle System risk, and reliability based Space Shuttle upgrade for safety. Special attention is given in this paper to the physics based probabilistic engineering analysis applications and their critical role in evaluating the reliability of NASA development hardware including their potential use in a research and technology development environment.

A population-based case-control teratologic study of furazidine, a nitrofuran-derivative treatment during pregnancy.

PubMed

Czeizel, A E; Rockenbauer, M; Sørensen, H T; Olsen, J

2000-04-01

To study human teratogenic potential of furazidine treatment during pregnancy. Pair analysis of cases with congenital abnormalities and matched population controls. The Hungarian Case-Control Surveillance of Congenital Abnormalities. 38,151 pregnant women who had newborn infants without any defects (population control group) and 22,865 pregnant women who had newborns or fetuses with congenital abnormalities between 1980 and 1996. In the case group, 157 (0.7%) and in the control group, 254 (0.7%) pregnant women were treated with furazidine. The case-control pair analysis did not indicate a teratogenic potential of furazidine use during the second to third months of gestation, i.e. in the critical period for major congenital abnormalities. Treatment with furazidine during pregnancy did not show teratogenic risk to the fetus.

Availability Analysis of Dual Mode Systems

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1974-04-01

The analytical procedures presented define a method of evaluating the effects of failures in a complex dual-mode system based on a worst case steady-state analysis. The computed result is an availability figure of merit and not an absolute prediction...

An analysis of transportation planning effectiveness

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1977-07-01

The report documents a novel methodology and analysis procedure for measuring a program's effect, and it is based on data from case studies of a representative group of twenty urban areas, conducted during 1976, which are reported in a companion repo...

Literacy learning in secondary school science classrooms: A cross-case analysis of three qualitative studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dillon, Deborah R.; O'Brien, David G.; Moje, Elizabeth B.; Stewart, Roger A.

The purpose of this cross-case analysis is to illustrate how and why literacy was incorporated into science teaching and learning in three secondary classrooms. Research questions guiding the analysis include: (a) How were literacy events shaped by the teachers' philosophies about teaching science content and teaching students? and (b) How was literacy (reading, writing, and oral language) structured by the teachers and manifested in science lessons? The methodology of ethnography and the theoretical framework of symbolic interactionism were employed in the three studies on which the cross-case analysis was based. The researchers assumed the role of participant observers, collecting data over the period of 1 year in each of the three classrooms. Data, in the form of fieldnotes, interviews, and artifacts, were collected. In each study, data were analyzed using the constant comparative method (Glaser & Strauss, 1967) to determine patterns in the teachers' beliefs about learning and how these influenced their choice of literacy activities. The cross-case analysis was conducted to determine patterns across the three teachers and their classrooms. The findings from this analysis are used to compare how the teachers' philosophies of teaching science and their beliefs about how students learn influenced their use of literacy practices during lessons. Specifically, each teacher's use of literacy activities varied based on his or her beliefs about teaching science concepts. Furthermore, reading, writing, and oral language were important vehicles to learning science concepts within daily classroom activities in the three classrooms.Received: 1 April 1993; Revised: 30 August 1993;

An analysis of OWI arrests and convictions in Iowa.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-07-01

The primary goal of the project was to document the demographic profile of OWI offenders in Iowa. The study is based on both aggregate and case-level data. The case level data produced a final sample of 118,675 OWI convictions. That occurred from 200...

Effects of computer-based training on procedural modifications to standard functional analyses.

PubMed

Schnell, Lauren K; Sidener, Tina M; DeBar, Ruth M; Vladescu, Jason C; Kahng, SungWoo

2018-01-01

Few studies have evaluated methods for training decision-making when functional analysis data are undifferentiated. The current study evaluated computer-based training to teach 20 graduate students to arrange functional analysis conditions, analyze functional analysis data, and implement procedural modifications. Participants were exposed to training materials using interactive software during a 1-day session. Following the training, mean scores on the posttest, novel cases probe, and maintenance probe increased for all participants. These results replicate previous findings during a 1-day session and include a measure of participant acceptability of the training. Recommendations for future research on computer-based training and functional analysis are discussed. © 2017 Society for the Experimental Analysis of Behavior.

40 CFR 68.25 - Worst-case release scenario analysis.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... used is based on TNT equivalent methods. (1) For regulated flammable substances that are normally gases... shall be used to determine the distance to the explosion endpoint if the model used is based on TNT...

40 CFR 68.25 - Worst-case release scenario analysis.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... used is based on TNT equivalent methods. (1) For regulated flammable substances that are normally gases... shall be used to determine the distance to the explosion endpoint if the model used is based on TNT...

40 CFR 68.25 - Worst-case release scenario analysis.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... used is based on TNT equivalent methods. (1) For regulated flammable substances that are normally gases... shall be used to determine the distance to the explosion endpoint if the model used is based on TNT...

40 CFR 68.25 - Worst-case release scenario analysis.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... used is based on TNT equivalent methods. (1) For regulated flammable substances that are normally gases... shall be used to determine the distance to the explosion endpoint if the model used is based on TNT...

40 CFR 68.25 - Worst-case release scenario analysis.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... used is based on TNT equivalent methods. (1) For regulated flammable substances that are normally gases... shall be used to determine the distance to the explosion endpoint if the model used is based on TNT...

An activity-based methodology for operations cost analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Korsmeyer, David; Bilby, Curt; Frizzell, R. A.

1991-01-01

This report describes an activity-based cost estimation method, proposed for the Space Exploration Initiative (SEI), as an alternative to NASA's traditional mass-based cost estimation method. A case study demonstrates how the activity-based cost estimation technique can be used to identify the operations that have a significant impact on costs over the life cycle of the SEI. The case study yielded an operations cost of $101 billion for the 20-year span of the lunar surface operations for the Option 5a program architecture. In addition, the results indicated that the support and training costs for the missions were the greatest contributors to the annual cost estimates. A cost-sensitivity analysis of the cultural and architectural drivers determined that the length of training and the amount of support associated with the ground support personnel for mission activities are the most significant cost contributors.

Air pollution and case fatality of SARS in the People's Republic of China: an ecologic study

PubMed Central

Cui, Yan; Zhang, Zuo-Feng; Froines, John; Zhao, Jinkou; Wang, Hua; Yu, Shun-Zhang; Detels, Roger

2003-01-01

Background Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) has claimed 349 lives with 5,327 probable cases reported in mainland China since November 2002. SARS case fatality has varied across geographical areas, which might be partially explained by air pollution level. Methods Publicly accessible data on SARS morbidity and mortality were utilized in the data analysis. Air pollution was evaluated by air pollution index (API) derived from the concentrations of particulate matter, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide and ground-level ozone. Ecologic analysis was conducted to explore the association and correlation between air pollution and SARS case fatality via model fitting. Partially ecologic studies were performed to assess the effects of long-term and short-term exposures on the risk of dying from SARS. Results Ecologic analysis conducted among 5 regions with 100 or more SARS cases showed that case fatality rate increased with the increment of API (case fatality = - 0.063 + 0.001 * API). Partially ecologic study based on short-term exposure demonstrated that SARS patients from regions with moderate APIs had an 84% increased risk of dying from SARS compared to those from regions with low APIs (RR = 1.84, 95% CI: 1.41–2.40). Similarly, SARS patients from regions with high APIs were twice as likely to die from SARS compared to those from regions with low APIs. (RR = 2.18, 95% CI: 1.31–3.65). Partially ecologic analysis based on long-term exposure to ambient air pollution showed the similar association. Conclusion Our studies demonstrated a positive association between air pollution and SARS case fatality in Chinese population by utilizing publicly accessible data on SARS statistics and air pollution indices. Although ecologic fallacy and uncontrolled confounding effect might have biased the results, the possibility of a detrimental effect of air pollution on the prognosis of SARS patients deserves further investigation. PMID:14629774

GBOOST: a GPU-based tool for detecting gene-gene interactions in genome-wide case control studies.

PubMed

Yung, Ling Sing; Yang, Can; Wan, Xiang; Yu, Weichuan

2011-05-01

Collecting millions of genetic variations is feasible with the advanced genotyping technology. With a huge amount of genetic variations data in hand, developing efficient algorithms to carry out the gene-gene interaction analysis in a timely manner has become one of the key problems in genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Boolean operation-based screening and testing (BOOST), a recent work in GWAS, completes gene-gene interaction analysis in 2.5 days on a desktop computer. Compared with central processing units (CPUs), graphic processing units (GPUs) are highly parallel hardware and provide massive computing resources. We are, therefore, motivated to use GPUs to further speed up the analysis of gene-gene interactions. We implement the BOOST method based on a GPU framework and name it GBOOST. GBOOST achieves a 40-fold speedup compared with BOOST. It completes the analysis of Wellcome Trust Case Control Consortium Type 2 Diabetes (WTCCC T2D) genome data within 1.34 h on a desktop computer equipped with Nvidia GeForce GTX 285 display card. GBOOST code is available at http://bioinformatics.ust.hk/BOOST.html#GBOOST.

Case Reports, Case Series - From Clinical Practice to Evidence-Based Medicine in Graduate Medical Education.

PubMed

Sayre, Jerry W; Toklu, Hale Z; Ye, Fan; Mazza, Joseph; Yale, Steven

2017-08-07

Case reports and case series or case study research are descriptive studies that are prepared for illustrating novel, unusual, or atypical features identified in patients in medical practice, and they potentially generate new research questions. They are empirical inquiries or investigations of a patient or a group of patients in a natural, real-world clinical setting. Case study research is a method that focuses on the contextual analysis of a number of events or conditions and their relationships. There is disagreement among physicians on the value of case studies in the medical literature, particularly for educators focused on teaching evidence-based medicine (EBM) for student learners in graduate medical education. Despite their limitations, case study research is a beneficial tool and learning experience in graduate medical education and among novice researchers. The preparation and presentation of case studies can help students and graduate medical education programs evaluate and apply the six American College of Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) competencies in the areas of medical knowledge, patient care, practice-based learning, professionalism, systems-based practice, and communication. A goal in graduate medical education should be to assist residents to expand their critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. These attributes are required in the teaching and practice of EBM. In this aspect, case studies provide a platform for developing clinical skills and problem-based learning methods. Hence, graduate medical education programs should encourage, assist, and support residents in the publication of clinical case studies; and clinical teachers should encourage graduate students to publish case reports during their graduate medical education.

Modifications Of Discrete Ordinate Method For Computations With High Scattering Anisotropy: Comparative Analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Korkin, Sergey V.; Lyapustin, Alexei I.; Rozanov, Vladimir V.

2012-01-01

A numerical accuracy analysis of the radiative transfer equation (RTE) solution based on separation of the diffuse light field into anisotropic and smooth parts is presented. The analysis uses three different algorithms based on the discrete ordinate method (DOM). Two methods, DOMAS and DOM2+, that do not use the truncation of the phase function, are compared against the TMS-method. DOMAS and DOM2+ use the Small-Angle Modification of RTE and the single scattering term, respectively, as an anisotropic part. The TMS method uses Delta-M method for truncation of the phase function along with the single scattering correction. For reference, a standard discrete ordinate method, DOM, is also included in analysis. The obtained results for cases with high scattering anisotropy show that at low number of streams (16, 32) only DOMAS provides an accurate solution in the aureole area. Outside of the aureole, the convergence and accuracy of DOMAS, and TMS is found to be approximately similar: DOMAS was found more accurate in cases with coarse aerosol and liquid water cloud models, except low optical depth, while the TMS showed better results in case of ice cloud.

Modeling and projection of dengue fever cases in Guangzhou based on variation of weather factors.

PubMed

Li, Chenlu; Wang, Xiaofeng; Wu, Xiaoxu; Liu, Jianing; Ji, Duoying; Du, Juan

2017-12-15

Dengue fever is one of the most serious vector-borne infectious diseases, especially in Guangzhou, China. Dengue viruses and their vectors Aedes albopictus are sensitive to climate change primarily in relation to weather factors. Previous research has mainly focused on identifying the relationship between climate factors and dengue cases, or developing dengue case models with some non-climate factors. However, there has been little research addressing the modeling and projection of dengue cases only from the perspective of climate change. This study considered this topic using long time series data (1998-2014). First, sensitive weather factors were identified through meta-analysis that included literature review screening, lagged analysis, and collinear analysis. Then, key factors that included monthly average temperature at a lag of two months, and monthly average relative humidity and monthly average precipitation at lags of three months were determined. Second, time series Poisson analysis was used with the generalized additive model approach to develop a dengue model based on key weather factors for January 1998 to December 2012. Data from January 2013 to July 2014 were used to validate that the model was reliable and reasonable. Finally, future weather data (January 2020 to December 2070) were input into the model to project the occurrence of dengue cases under different climate scenarios (RCP 2.6 and RCP 8.5). Longer time series analysis and scientifically selected weather variables were used to develop a dengue model to ensure reliability. The projections suggested that seasonal disease control (especially in summer and fall) and mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions could help reduce the incidence of dengue fever. The results of this study hope to provide a scientifically theoretical basis for the prevention and control of dengue fever in Guangzhou. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A Knowledge-Based System For Analysis, Intervention Planning and Prevention of Defects in Immovable Cultural Heritage Objects and Monuments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Valach, J.; Cacciotti, R.; Kuneš, P.; ČerÅanský, M.; Bláha, J.

2012-04-01

The paper presents a project aiming to develop a knowledge-based system for documentation and analysis of defects of cultural heritage objects and monuments. The MONDIS information system concentrates knowledge on damage of immovable structures due to various causes, and preventive/remedial actions performed to protect/repair them, where possible. The currently built system is to provide for understanding of causal relationships between a defect, materials, external load, and environment of built object. Foundation for the knowledge-based system will be the systemized and formalized knowledge on defects and their mitigation acquired in the process of analysis of a representative set of cases documented in the past. On the basis of design comparability, used technologies, materials and the nature of the external forces and surroundings, the developed software system has the capacity to indicate the most likely risks of new defect occurrence or the extension of the existing ones. The system will also allow for a comparison of the actual failure with similar cases documented and will propose a suitable technical intervention plan. The system will provide conservationists, administrators and owners of historical objects with a toolkit for defect documentation for their objects. Also, advanced artificial intelligence methods will offer accumulated knowledge to users and will also enable them to get oriented in relevant techniques of preventive interventions and reconstructions based on similarity with their case.

Comprehension and retrieval of failure cases in airborne observatories

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Alvarado, Sergio J.; Mock, Kenrick J.

1995-01-01

This paper describes research dealing with the computational problem of analyzing and repairing failures of electronic and mechanical systems of telescopes in NASA's airborne observatories, such as KAO (Kuiper Airborne Observatory) and SOFIA (Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy). The research has resulted in the development of an experimental system that acquires knowledge of failure analysis from input text, and answers questions regarding failure detection and correction. The system's design builds upon previous work on text comprehension and question answering, including: knowledge representation for conceptual analysis of failure descriptions, strategies for mapping natural language into conceptual representations, case-based reasoning strategies for memory organization and indexing, and strategies for memory search and retrieval. These techniques have been combined into a model that accounts for: (a) how to build a knowledge base of system failures and repair procedures from descriptions that appear in telescope-operators' logbooks and FMEA (failure modes and effects analysis) manuals; and (b) how to use that knowledge base to search and retrieve answers to questions about causes and effects of failures, as well as diagnosis and repair procedures. This model has been implemented in FANSYS (Failure ANalysis SYStem), a prototype text comprehension and question answering program for failure analysis.

Comprehension and retrieval of failure cases in airborne observatories

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alvarado, Sergio J.; Mock, Kenrick J.

1995-05-01

This paper describes research dealing with the computational problem of analyzing and repairing failures of electronic and mechanical systems of telescopes in NASA's airborne observatories, such as KAO (Kuiper Airborne Observatory) and SOFIA (Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy). The research has resulted in the development of an experimental system that acquires knowledge of failure analysis from input text, and answers questions regarding failure detection and correction. The system's design builds upon previous work on text comprehension and question answering, including: knowledge representation for conceptual analysis of failure descriptions, strategies for mapping natural language into conceptual representations, case-based reasoning strategies for memory organization and indexing, and strategies for memory search and retrieval. These techniques have been combined into a model that accounts for: (a) how to build a knowledge base of system failures and repair procedures from descriptions that appear in telescope-operators' logbooks and FMEA (failure modes and effects analysis) manuals; and (b) how to use that knowledge base to search and retrieve answers to questions about causes and effects of failures, as well as diagnosis and repair procedures. This model has been implemented in FANSYS (Failure ANalysis SYStem), a prototype text comprehension and question answering program for failure analysis.

Developing Army Leaders through Increased Rigor in Professional Military Training and Education

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-06-09

leadership. Research Methodology An applied, exploratory, qualitative research methodology via a structured and focused case study comparison was...research methodology via a structured and focused case study comparison. Finally, it will discuss how the methodology will be conducted to make...development models; it serves as the base data for case study comparison. 48 Research Methodology and Data Analysis A qualitative research

Exploratory factor analysis of signalment and conformational measurements in Thoroughbred horses with and without recurrent laryngeal neuropathy.

PubMed

McGivney, C L; Gough, K F; McGivney, B A; Farries, G; Hill, E W; Katz, L M

2018-06-23

Conflicting results have been reported for risk factors for recurrent laryngeal neuropathy (RLN) based on resting endoscopic evaluation and comparison of single conformation traits, with many traits correlated to one another. To simplify identification of signalment and conformation traits (i.e. variables) associated with RLN cases and controls diagnosed with exercising overground endoscopy (OGE) using exploratory factor analysis (EFA). Prospective cohort. Pearson's rank correlation was used to establish significance and association between variables collected from n = 188 Thoroughbreds from one stable by observers blinded to OGE results. Exploratory factor analysis was conducted on 9 variables for cases and controls; common elements between variables developed a factor, with variables grouped into 3 factors for cases and controls, respectively. Correlation (loading) between each variable and factor was calculated to rank relationships between variables and cases/controls, with factors retrospectively named based on their underlying correlations with variables. Numerous inter-correlations were present between variables. Most strongly correlated in cases were wither height with body weight (r = 0.70) and ventral neck length (r = 0.68) and in controls body weight with rostral neck circumference (r = 0.58). Wither height (r = 0.61) significantly loaded the top-ranked factor for cases ('height RLN '), explaining 25% of conformational variance. Ventral neck length (r = 0.69) and age (r = 0.57) significantly loaded the second-ranked factor for cases ('neck length RLN '), explaining 16% of conformational variance. Rostral neck circumference (r = 0.86) and body weight (r = 0.6) significantly loaded the top-ranked factor for controls ('body size CON '), explaining 19% of the variance. Wither height (r = 0.84) significantly loaded the second-ranked factor for controls ('height CON '), explaining 13% of the variance. Horses had not reached skeletal maturity. Exploratory factor analysis allowed weightings to be determined for each variable. Wither height was the predominant conformational feature associated with RLN. Exploratory factor analysis confirms aggregated conformational differences exist between RLN cases and controls, suitable for future evaluations. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Design-Based Research: Case of a Teaching Sequence on Mechanics

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tiberghien, Andree; Vince, Jacques; Gaidioz, Pierre

2009-01-01

Design-based research, and particularly its theoretical status, is a subject of debate in the science education community. In the first part of this paper, a theoretical framework drawn up to develop design-based research will be presented. This framework is mainly based on epistemological analysis of physics modelling, learning and teaching…

Automated Image Analysis of HER2 Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization to Refine Definitions of Genetic Heterogeneity in Breast Cancer Tissue

PubMed Central

Radziuviene, Gedmante; Rasmusson, Allan; Augulis, Renaldas; Lesciute-Krilaviciene, Daiva; Laurinaviciene, Aida; Clim, Eduard

2017-01-01

Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 gene- (HER2-) targeted therapy for breast cancer relies primarily on HER2 overexpression established by immunohistochemistry (IHC) with borderline cases being further tested for amplification by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Manual interpretation of HER2 FISH is based on a limited number of cells and rather complex definitions of equivocal, polysomic, and genetically heterogeneous (GH) cases. Image analysis (IA) can extract high-capacity data and potentially improve HER2 testing in borderline cases. We investigated statistically derived indicators of HER2 heterogeneity in HER2 FISH data obtained by automated IA of 50 IHC borderline (2+) cases of invasive ductal breast carcinoma. Overall, IA significantly underestimated the conventional HER2, CEP17 counts, and HER2/CEP17 ratio; however, it collected more amplified cells in some cases below the lower limit of GH definition by manual procedure. Indicators for amplification, polysomy, and bimodality were extracted by factor analysis and allowed clustering of the tumors into amplified, nonamplified, and equivocal/polysomy categories. The bimodality indicator provided independent cell diversity characteristics for all clusters. Tumors classified as bimodal only partially coincided with the conventional GH heterogeneity category. We conclude that automated high-capacity nonselective tumor cell assay can generate evidence-based HER2 intratumor heterogeneity indicators to refine GH definitions. PMID:28752092

Automated Image Analysis of HER2 Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization to Refine Definitions of Genetic Heterogeneity in Breast Cancer Tissue.

PubMed

Radziuviene, Gedmante; Rasmusson, Allan; Augulis, Renaldas; Lesciute-Krilaviciene, Daiva; Laurinaviciene, Aida; Clim, Eduard; Laurinavicius, Arvydas

2017-01-01

Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 gene- (HER2-) targeted therapy for breast cancer relies primarily on HER2 overexpression established by immunohistochemistry (IHC) with borderline cases being further tested for amplification by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Manual interpretation of HER2 FISH is based on a limited number of cells and rather complex definitions of equivocal, polysomic, and genetically heterogeneous (GH) cases. Image analysis (IA) can extract high-capacity data and potentially improve HER2 testing in borderline cases. We investigated statistically derived indicators of HER2 heterogeneity in HER2 FISH data obtained by automated IA of 50 IHC borderline (2+) cases of invasive ductal breast carcinoma. Overall, IA significantly underestimated the conventional HER2, CEP17 counts, and HER2/CEP17 ratio; however, it collected more amplified cells in some cases below the lower limit of GH definition by manual procedure. Indicators for amplification, polysomy, and bimodality were extracted by factor analysis and allowed clustering of the tumors into amplified, nonamplified, and equivocal/polysomy categories. The bimodality indicator provided independent cell diversity characteristics for all clusters. Tumors classified as bimodal only partially coincided with the conventional GH heterogeneity category. We conclude that automated high-capacity nonselective tumor cell assay can generate evidence-based HER2 intratumor heterogeneity indicators to refine GH definitions.

Spatial patterns of leprosy in a hyperendemic state in Northern Brazil, 2001-2012

PubMed Central

Monteiro, Lorena Dias; Martins-Melo, Francisco Rogerlândio; Brito, Aline Lima; Alencar, Carlos Henrique; Heukelbach, Jorg

2015-01-01

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To describe the spatial patterns of leprosy in the Brazilian state of Tocantins. METHODS This study was based on morbidity data obtained from the Sistema de Informações de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN – Brazilian Notifiable Diseases Information System), of the Ministry of Health. All new leprosy cases in individuals residing in the state of Tocantins, between 2001 and 2012, were included. In addition to the description of general disease indicators, a descriptive spatial analysis, empirical Bayesian analysis and spatial dependence analysis were performed by means of global and local Moran’s indexes. RESULTS A total of 14,542 new cases were recorded during the period under study. Based on the annual case detection rate, 77.0% of the municipalities were classified as hyperendemic (> 40 cases/100,000 inhabitants). Regarding the annual case detection rate in < 15 years-olds, 65.4% of the municipalities were hyperendemic (10.0 to 19.9 cases/100,000 inhabitants); 26.6% had a detection rate of grade 2 disability cases between 5.0 and 9.9 cases/100,000 inhabitants. There was a geographical overlap of clusters of municipalities with high detection rates in hyperendemic areas. Clusters with high disease risk (global Moran’s index: 0.51; p < 0.001), ongoing transmission (0.47; p < 0.001) and late diagnosis (0.44; p < 0.001) were identified mainly in the central-north and southwestern regions of Tocantins. CONCLUSIONS We identified high-risk clusters for transmission and late diagnosis of leprosy in the Brazilian state of Tocantins. Surveillance and control measures should be prioritized in these high-risk municipalities. PMID:26603352

Zero-moment point determination of worst-case manoeuvres leading to vehicle wheel lift

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lapapong, S.; Brown, A. A.; Swanson, K. S.; Brennan, S. N.

2012-01-01

This paper proposes a method to evaluate vehicle rollover propensity based on a frequency-domain representation of the zero-moment point (ZMP). Unlike other rollover metrics such as the static stability factor, which is based on the steady-state behaviour, and the load transfer ratio, which requires the calculation of tyre forces, the ZMP is based on a simplified kinematic model of the vehicle and the analysis of the contact point of the vehicle relative to the edge of the support polygon. Previous work has validated the use of the ZMP experimentally in its ability to predict wheel lift in the time domain. This work explores the use of the ZMP in the frequency domain to allow a chassis designer to understand how operating conditions and vehicle parameters affect rollover propensity. The ZMP analysis is then extended to calculate worst-case sinusoidal manoeuvres that lead to untripped wheel lift, and the analysis is tested across several vehicle configurations and compared with that of the standard Toyota J manoeuvre.

77 FR 61330 - Policies Regarding Mobile Spectrum Holdings

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-10-09

... the transaction and is based on the size of the post-transaction Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI) \\26... further case-by-case market analysis those markets in which, post-transaction, the HHI would be greater... De Facto Transfer Leasing Arrangements and Petition for Declaratory Ruling that the Transaction is...

Analysis of Coaxial Injectors Using CFD++

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-09-12

turpentine droplets d = 1-90 um Uc = 2.4 m/s Low turbulence intensity of 1.4% Model Validation Case 9/12/2011 28Distribution A: Approved for Public...Approved for Public Release (Pending) Case Conditions: •Two species (Air, Turpentine ) •Base Equation Type: Compressible Real Gas Navier-Stokes/Euler

Networked Learning for Agricultural Extension: A Framework for Analysis and Two Cases

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kelly, Nick; Bennett, John McLean; Starasts, Ann

2017-01-01

Purpose: This paper presents economic and pedagogical motivations for adopting information and communications technology (ICT)- mediated learning networks in agricultural education and extension. It proposes a framework for networked learning in agricultural extension and contributes a theoretical and case-based rationale for adopting the…

Using Case Studies to Promote Student Engagement in Primary Literature Data Analysis and Evaluation

PubMed Central

Cook-Snyder, Denise R.

2017-01-01

Analyzing and evaluating primary literature data is a common learning objective in undergraduate neuroscience courses. However, students with more clinically focused career goals often dismiss the relevance of evaluating basic neuroscience literature. Here, we describe using case studies to promote student engagement in primary literature in a cellular and molecular neuroscience course. Two example literature-based case studies are provided: Untwisting Pretzel Syndrome, a neurodevelopment case exploring synapse formation in a pretzel syndrome patient, and The Trials of ALS, a neurodegeneration case exploring axon degeneration and repair in an amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patient. These cases were assigned after neurodevelopment and neurodegeneration lectures covering key concepts. Both cases begin by introducing the patient and hypothesizing symptoms and diagnoses, followed by scenes incorporating primary data to illustrate disease pathogenesis and treatments. Students complete questions embedded in these cases as homework, and class time is used to discuss their answers. Discussion emphasizes that there can be multiple “correct” answers, and the best answers are accurate and well-supported. Accordingly, students edit their answers in class, and these annotations are factored into a pass/fail grade on the case. Additional scenes and questions from the same case studies are used on the course’s take-home exams, thereby allowing students to practice primary data analysis and evaluation before a graded assignment. Student evaluations support literature-based case studies as an effective learning tool, with students identifying cases as the most valuable aspect of the course, and reporting increased confidence in understanding cellular and molecular neuroscience. PMID:29371850

Using Case Studies to Promote Student Engagement in Primary Literature Data Analysis and Evaluation.

PubMed

Cook-Snyder, Denise R

2017-01-01

Analyzing and evaluating primary literature data is a common learning objective in undergraduate neuroscience courses. However, students with more clinically focused career goals often dismiss the relevance of evaluating basic neuroscience literature. Here, we describe using case studies to promote student engagement in primary literature in a cellular and molecular neuroscience course. Two example literature-based case studies are provided: Untwisting Pretzel Syndrome, a neurodevelopment case exploring synapse formation in a pretzel syndrome patient, and The Trials of ALS, a neurodegeneration case exploring axon degeneration and repair in an amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patient. These cases were assigned after neurodevelopment and neurodegeneration lectures covering key concepts. Both cases begin by introducing the patient and hypothesizing symptoms and diagnoses, followed by scenes incorporating primary data to illustrate disease pathogenesis and treatments. Students complete questions embedded in these cases as homework, and class time is used to discuss their answers. Discussion emphasizes that there can be multiple "correct" answers, and the best answers are accurate and well-supported. Accordingly, students edit their answers in class, and these annotations are factored into a pass/fail grade on the case. Additional scenes and questions from the same case studies are used on the course's take-home exams, thereby allowing students to practice primary data analysis and evaluation before a graded assignment. Student evaluations support literature-based case studies as an effective learning tool, with students identifying cases as the most valuable aspect of the course, and reporting increased confidence in understanding cellular and molecular neuroscience.

Systems Analysis in Small Educational Systems: A Case Study.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Vazquez-Abad, Jesus; And Others

1982-01-01

The use of systems analysis in transforming a graduate program in educational technology from a lecture-based system to a self-instructional one is described. Several operational research techniques are illustrated. A bibliography of 10 items is included. (CHC)

Pathway Analysis and Omics Data Visualization Using Pathway Genome Databases: FragariaCyc, a Case Study.

PubMed

Naithani, Sushma; Jaiswal, Pankaj

2017-01-01

The species-specific plant Pathway Genome Databases (PGDBs) based on the BioCyc platform provide a conceptual model of the cellular metabolic network of an organism. Such frameworks allow analysis of the genome-scale expression data to understand changes in the overall metabolisms of an organism (or organs, tissues, and cells) in response to various extrinsic (e.g. developmental and differentiation) and/or extrinsic signals (e.g. pathogens and abiotic stresses) from the surrounding environment. Using FragariaCyc, a pathway database for the diploid strawberry Fragaria vesca, we show (1) the basic navigation across a PGDB; (2) a case study of pathway comparison across plant species; and (3) an example of RNA-Seq data analysis using Omics Viewer tool. The protocols described here generally apply to other Pathway Tools-based PGDBs.

A Genome-Wide Association Meta-Analysis of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Symptoms in Population-Based Paediatric Cohorts

PubMed Central

Groen-Blokhuis, Maria M.; Pourcain, Beate St.; Greven, Corina U.; Pappa, Irene; Tiesler, Carla M.T.; Ang, Wei; Nolte, Ilja M.; Vilor-Tejedor, Natalia; Bacelis, Jonas; Ebejer, Jane L.; Zhao, Huiying; Davies, Gareth E.; Ehli, Erik A.; Evans, David M.; Fedko, Iryna O.; Guxens, Mònica; Hottenga, Jouke-Jan; Hudziak, James J.; Jugessur, Astanand; Kemp, John P.; Krapohl, Eva; Martin, Nicholas G.; Murcia, Mario; Myhre, Ronny; Ormel, Johan; Ring, Susan M.; Standl, Marie; Stergiakouli, Evie; Stoltenberg, Camilla; Thiering, Elisabeth; Timpson, Nicholas J.; Trzaskowski, Maciej; van der Most, Peter J.; Wang, Carol; Nyholt, Dale R.; Medland, Sarah E.; Neale, Benjamin; Jacobsson, Bo; Sunyer, Jordi; Hartman, Catharina A.; Whitehouse, Andrew J.O.; Pennell, Craig E.; Heinrich, Joachim; Plomin, Robert; Smith, George Davey; Tiemeier, Henning; Posthuma, Danielle; Boomsma, Dorret I.

2016-01-01

Objective To elucidate the influence of common genetic variants on childhood attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms, to identify genetic variants that explain its high heritability, and to investigate the genetic overlap of ADHD symptom scores with ADHD diagnosis. Method Within the EArly Genetics and Lifecourse Epidemiology (EAGLE) consortium, genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and ADHD symptom scores were available for 17,666 children (< 13 years) from nine population-based cohorts. SNP-based heritability was estimated in data from the three largest cohorts. Meta-analysis based on genome-wide association (GWA) analyses with SNPs was followed by gene-based association tests, and the overlap in results with a meta-analysis in the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium (PGC) case-control ADHD study was investigated. Results SNP-based heritability ranged from 5% to 34%, indicating that variation in common genetic variants influences ADHD symptom scores. The meta-analysis did not detect genome-wide significant SNPs, but three genes, lying close to each other with SNPs in high linkage disequilibrium (LD), showed a gene-wide significant association (p values between 1.46×10-6 and 2.66×10-6). One gene, WASL, is involved in neuronal development. Both SNP- and gene-based analyses indicated overlap with the PGC meta-analysis results with the genetic correlation estimated at 0.96. Conclusion The SNP-based heritability for ADHD symptom scores indicates a polygenic architecture and genes involved in neurite outgrowth are possibly involved. Continuous and dichotomous measures of ADHD appear to assess a genetically common phenotype. A next step is to combine data from population-based and case-control cohorts in genetic association studies to increase sample size and improve statistical power for identifying genetic variants. PMID:27663945

Application of the critical pathway and integrated case teaching method to nursing orientation.

PubMed

Goodman, D

1997-01-01

Nursing staff development programs must be responsive to current changes in healthcare. New nursing staff must be prepared to manage continuous change and to function competently in clinical practice. The orientation pathway, based on a case management model, is used as a structure for the orientation phase of staff development. The integrated case is incorporated as a teaching strategy in orientation. The integrated case method is based on discussion and analysis of patient situations with emphasis on role modeling and integration of theory and skill. The orientation pathway and integrated case teaching method provide a useful framework for orientation of new staff. Educators, preceptors and orientees find the structure provided by the orientation pathway very useful. Orientation that is developed, implemented and evaluated based on a case management model with the use of an orientation pathway and incorporation of an integrated case teaching method provides a standardized structure for orientation of new staff. This approach is designed for the adult learner, promotes conceptual reasoning, and encourages the social and contextual basis for continued learning.

NUMERICAL FLOW AND TRANSPORT SIMULATIONS SUPPORTING THE SALTSTONE FACILITY PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT

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

Flach, G.

2009-02-28

The Saltstone Disposal Facility Performance Assessment (PA) is being revised to incorporate requirements of Section 3116 of the Ronald W. Reagan National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005 (NDAA), and updated data and understanding of vault performance since the 1992 PA (Cook and Fowler 1992) and related Special Analyses. A hybrid approach was chosen for modeling contaminant transport from vaults and future disposal cells to exposure points. A higher resolution, largely deterministic, analysis is performed on a best-estimate Base Case scenario using the PORFLOW numerical analysis code. a few additional sensitivity cases are simulated to examine alternative scenarios andmore » parameter settings. Stochastic analysis is performed on a simpler representation of the SDF system using the GoldSim code to estimate uncertainty and sensitivity about the Base Case. This report describes development of PORFLOW models supporting the SDF PA, and presents sample results to illustrate model behaviors and define impacts relative to key facility performance objectives. The SDF PA document, when issued, should be consulted for a comprehensive presentation of results.« less

Meta-Analysis of Mathematic Basic-Fact Fluency Interventions: A Component Analysis

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Codding, Robin S.; Burns, Matthew K.; Lukito, Gracia

2011-01-01

Mathematics fluency is a critical component of mathematics learning yet few attempts have been made to synthesize this research base. Seventeen single-case design studies with 55 participants were reviewed using meta-analytic procedures. A component analysis of practice elements was conducted and treatment intensity and feasibility were examined.…

Using Multimedia for Teaching Analysis in History of Modern Architecture.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Perryman, Garry

This paper presents a case for the development and support of a computer-based interactive multimedia program for teaching analysis in community college architecture design programs. Analysis in architecture design is an extremely important strategy for the teaching of higher-order thinking skills, which senior schools of architecture look for in…

Dangers resulting from DNA profiling of biological materials derived from patients after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) with regard to forensic genetic analysis.

PubMed

Jacewicz, R; Lewandowski, K; Rupa-Matysek, J; Jędrzejczyk, M; Berent, J

The study documents the risk that comes with DNA analysis of materials derived from patients after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) in forensic genetics. DNA chimerism was studied in 30 patients after allo-HSCT, based on techniques applied in contemporary forensic genetics, i.e. real-time PCR and multiplex PCR-STR with the use of autosomal DNA as well as Y-DNA markers. The results revealed that the DNA profile of the recipient's blood was identical with the donor's in the majority of cases. Therefore, blood analysis can lead to false conclusions in personal identification as well as kinship analysis. An investigation of buccal swabs revealed a mixture of DNA in the majority of recipients. Consequently, personal identification on the basis of stain analysis of the same origin may be impossible. The safest (but not ideal) material turned out to be the hair root. Its analysis based on autosomal DNA revealed 100% of the recipient's profile. However, an analysis based on Y-chromosome markers performed in female allo-HSCT recipients with male donors demonstrated the presence of donor DNA in hair cells - similarly to the blood and buccal swabs. In the light of potential risks arising from DNA profiling of biological materials derived from persons after allotransplantation in judicial aspects, certain procedures were proposed to eliminate such dangers. The basic procedures include abandoning the approach based exclusively on blood collection, both for kinship analysis and personal identification; asking persons who are to be tested about their history of allo-HSCT before sample collection and profile entry in the DNA database, and verification of DNA profiling based on hair follicles in uncertain cases.

A Cyber-Attack Detection Model Based on Multivariate Analyses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sakai, Yuto; Rinsaka, Koichiro; Dohi, Tadashi

In the present paper, we propose a novel cyber-attack detection model based on two multivariate-analysis methods to the audit data observed on a host machine. The statistical techniques used here are the well-known Hayashi's quantification method IV and cluster analysis method. We quantify the observed qualitative audit event sequence via the quantification method IV, and collect similar audit event sequence in the same groups based on the cluster analysis. It is shown in simulation experiments that our model can improve the cyber-attack detection accuracy in some realistic cases where both normal and attack activities are intermingled.

A CLIPS expert system for clinical flow cytometry data analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Salzman, G. C.; Duque, R. E.; Braylan, R. C.; Stewart, C. C.

1990-01-01

An expert system is being developed using CLIPS to assist clinicians in the analysis of multivariate flow cytometry data from cancer patients. Cluster analysis is used to find subpopulations representing various cell types in multiple datasets each consisting of four to five measurements on each of 5000 cells. CLIPS facts are derived from results of the clustering. CLIPS rules are based on the expertise of Drs. Stewart, Duque, and Braylan. The rules incorporate certainty factors based on case histories.

UV spectroscopy including ISM line absorption: of the exciting star of Abell 35

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ziegler, M.; Rauch, T.; Werner, K.; Kruk, J. W.

Reliable spectral analysis that is based on high-resolution UV observations requires an adequate, simultaneous modeling of the interstellar line absorption and reddening. In the case of the central star of the planetary nebula Abell 35, BD-22 3467, we demonstrate our current standard spectral-analysis method that is based on the Tübingen NLTE Model-Atmosphere Package (TMAP). We present an on- going spectral analysis of FUSE and HST/STIS observations of BD-22 3467.

Refining and validating a two-stage and web-based cancer risk assessment tool for village doctors in China.

PubMed

Shen, Xing-Rong; Chai, Jing; Feng, Rui; Liu, Tong-Zhu; Tong, Gui-Xian; Cheng, Jing; Li, Kai-Chun; Xie, Shao-Yu; Shi, Yong; Wang, De-Bin

2014-01-01

The big gap between efficacy of population level prevention and expectations due to heterogeneity and complexity of cancer etiologic factors calls for selective yet personalized interventions based on effective risk assessment. This paper documents our research protocol aimed at refining and validating a two-stage and web- based cancer risk assessment tool, from a tentative one in use by an ongoing project, capable of identifying individuals at elevated risk for one or more types of the 80% leading cancers in rural China with adequate sensitivity and specificity and featuring low cost, easy application and cultural and technical sensitivity for farmers and village doctors. The protocol adopted a modified population-based case control design using 72, 000 non-patients as controls, 2, 200 cancer patients as cases, and another 600 patients as cases for external validation. Factors taken into account comprised 8 domains including diet and nutrition, risk behaviors, family history, precancerous diseases, related medical procedures, exposure to environment hazards, mood and feelings, physical activities and anthropologic and biologic factors. Modeling stresses explored various methodologies like empirical analysis, logistic regression, neuro-network analysis, decision theory and both internal and external validation using concordance statistics, predictive values, etc..

The Impact of Multilocus Variable-Number Tandem-Repeat Analysis on PulseNet Canada Escherichia coli O157:H7 Laboratory Surveillance and Outbreak Support, 2008-2012.

PubMed

Rumore, Jillian Leigh; Tschetter, Lorelee; Nadon, Celine

2016-05-01

The lack of pattern diversity among pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) profiles for Escherichia coli O157:H7 in Canada does not consistently provide optimal discrimination, and therefore, differentiating temporally and/or geographically associated sporadic cases from potential outbreak cases can at times impede investigations. To address this limitation, DNA sequence-based methods such as multilocus variable-number tandem-repeat analysis (MLVA) have been explored. To assess the performance of MLVA as a supplemental method to PFGE from the Canadian perspective, a retrospective analysis of all E. coli O157:H7 isolated in Canada from January 2008 to December 2012 (inclusive) was conducted. A total of 2285 E. coli O157:H7 isolates and 63 clusters of cases (by PFGE) were selected for the study. Based on the qualitative analysis, the addition of MLVA improved the categorization of cases for 60% of clusters and no change was observed for ∼40% of clusters investigated. In such situations, MLVA serves to confirm PFGE results, but may not add further information per se. The findings of this study demonstrate that MLVA data, when used in combination with PFGE-based analyses, provide additional resolution to the detection of clusters lacking PFGE diversity as well as demonstrate good epidemiological concordance. In addition, MLVA is able to identify cluster-associated isolates with variant PFGE pattern combinations that may have been previously missed by PFGE alone. Optimal laboratory surveillance in Canada is achieved with the application of PFGE and MLVA in tandem for routine surveillance, cluster detection, and outbreak response.

Study on Adaptive Parameter Determination of Cluster Analysis in Urban Management Cases

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fu, J. Y.; Jing, C. F.; Du, M. Y.; Fu, Y. L.; Dai, P. P.

2017-09-01

The fine management for cities is the important way to realize the smart city. The data mining which uses spatial clustering analysis for urban management cases can be used in the evaluation of urban public facilities deployment, and support the policy decisions, and also provides technical support for the fine management of the city. Aiming at the problem that DBSCAN algorithm which is based on the density-clustering can not realize parameter adaptive determination, this paper proposed the optimizing method of parameter adaptive determination based on the spatial analysis. Firstly, making analysis of the function Ripley's K for the data set to realize adaptive determination of global parameter MinPts, which means setting the maximum aggregation scale as the range of data clustering. Calculating every point object's highest frequency K value in the range of Eps which uses K-D tree and setting it as the value of clustering density to realize the adaptive determination of global parameter MinPts. Then, the R language was used to optimize the above process to accomplish the precise clustering of typical urban management cases. The experimental results based on the typical case of urban management in XiCheng district of Beijing shows that: The new DBSCAN clustering algorithm this paper presents takes full account of the data's spatial and statistical characteristic which has obvious clustering feature, and has a better applicability and high quality. The results of the study are not only helpful for the formulation of urban management policies and the allocation of urban management supervisors in XiCheng District of Beijing, but also to other cities and related fields.

[Study on the automatic parameters identification of water pipe network model].

PubMed

Jia, Hai-Feng; Zhao, Qi-Feng

2010-01-01

Based on the problems analysis on development and application of water pipe network model, the model parameters automatic identification is regarded as a kernel bottleneck of model's application in water supply enterprise. The methodology of water pipe network model parameters automatic identification based on GIS and SCADA database is proposed. Then the kernel algorithm of model parameters automatic identification is studied, RSA (Regionalized Sensitivity Analysis) is used for automatic recognition of sensitive parameters, and MCS (Monte-Carlo Sampling) is used for automatic identification of parameters, the detail technical route based on RSA and MCS is presented. The module of water pipe network model parameters automatic identification is developed. At last, selected a typical water pipe network as a case, the case study on water pipe network model parameters automatic identification is conducted and the satisfied results are achieved.

Analysis of Short Ramps for Dual-Mode and PRT Stations

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1977-07-01

The report documents a novel methodology and analysis procedure for measuring a program's effect, and it is based on data from case studies of a representative group of twenty urban areas, conducted during 1976, which are reported in a companion repo...

Network-based regularization for matched case-control analysis of high-dimensional DNA methylation data.

PubMed

Sun, Hokeun; Wang, Shuang

2013-05-30

The matched case-control designs are commonly used to control for potential confounding factors in genetic epidemiology studies especially epigenetic studies with DNA methylation. Compared with unmatched case-control studies with high-dimensional genomic or epigenetic data, there have been few variable selection methods for matched sets. In an earlier paper, we proposed the penalized logistic regression model for the analysis of unmatched DNA methylation data using a network-based penalty. However, for popularly applied matched designs in epigenetic studies that compare DNA methylation between tumor and adjacent non-tumor tissues or between pre-treatment and post-treatment conditions, applying ordinary logistic regression ignoring matching is known to bring serious bias in estimation. In this paper, we developed a penalized conditional logistic model using the network-based penalty that encourages a grouping effect of (1) linked Cytosine-phosphate-Guanine (CpG) sites within a gene or (2) linked genes within a genetic pathway for analysis of matched DNA methylation data. In our simulation studies, we demonstrated the superiority of using conditional logistic model over unconditional logistic model in high-dimensional variable selection problems for matched case-control data. We further investigated the benefits of utilizing biological group or graph information for matched case-control data. We applied the proposed method to a genome-wide DNA methylation study on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) where we investigated the DNA methylation levels of tumor and adjacent non-tumor tissues from HCC patients by using the Illumina Infinium HumanMethylation27 Beadchip. Several new CpG sites and genes known to be related to HCC were identified but were missed by the standard method in the original paper. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

IMAGe syndrome: clinical and genetic implications based on investigations in three Japanese patients.

PubMed

Kato, Fumiko; Hamajima, Takashi; Hasegawa, Tomonobu; Amano, Naoko; Horikawa, Reiko; Nishimura, Gen; Nakashima, Shinichi; Fuke, Tomoko; Sano, Shinichirou; Fukami, Maki; Ogata, Tsutomu

2014-05-01

Arboleda et al. have recently shown that IMAGe (intra-uterine growth restriction, metaphyseal dysplasia, adrenal hypoplasia congenita and genital abnormalities) syndrome is caused by gain-of-function mutations of maternally expressed gene CDKN1C on chromosome 11p15.5. However, there is no other report describing clinical findings in patients with molecularly studied IMAGe syndrome. Here, we report clinical and molecular findings in Japanese patients. We studied a 46,XX patient aged 8·5 years (case 1) and two 46,XY patients aged 16·5 and 15·0 years (cases 2 and 3). Clinical studies revealed not only IMAGe syndrome-compatible phenotypes in cases 1-3, but also hitherto undescribed findings including relative macrocephaly and apparently normal pituitary-gonadal endocrine function in cases 1-3, familial glucocorticoid deficiency (FGD)-like adrenal phenotype and the history of oligohydramnios in case 2, and arachnodactyly in case 3. Sequence analysis of CDKN1C, pyrosequencing-based methylation analysis of KvDMR1 and high-density oligonucleotide array comparative genome hybridization analysis for chromosome 11p15.5 were performed, showing an identical de novo and maternally inherited CDKN1C gain-of-function mutation (p.Asp274Asn) in cases 1 and 2, respectively, and no demonstrable abnormality in case 3. The results of cases 1 and 2 with CDKN1C mutation would argue the following: [1] relative macrocephaly is consistent with maternal expression of CDKN1C in most tissues and biparental expression of CDKN1C in the foetal brain; [2] FGD-like phenotype can result from CDKN1C mutation; and [3] genital abnormalities may primarily be ascribed to placental dysfunction. Furthermore, lack of CDKN1C mutation in case 3 implies genetic heterogeneity in IMAGe syndrome. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

The Analysis and Discussion in the Effective Application of the Dispatcher Training Based on Case Teaching Method with the Cause from the Action of the Gap Protection of Main Transformer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuanyuan, Xu; Zhengmao, Zhang; Xiang, Fang; Yuanshuai, Xu; Xinxin, Song

2018-03-01

The combination of theory and practice is a difficult problem on dispatcher training. Through a typical example of case, this paper provides an effective case teaching method for dispatcher training, and combines the theoretical discussion of the rule of experience with cases and achieves vividness. It helps students to understand and catch the key points of the theory, and improve their practical skills.

Comparison of Nonlinear Random Response Using Equivalent Linearization and Numerical Simulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rizzi, Stephen A.; Muravyov, Alexander A.

2000-01-01

A recently developed finite-element-based equivalent linearization approach for the analysis of random vibrations of geometrically nonlinear multiple degree-of-freedom structures is validated. The validation is based on comparisons with results from a finite element based numerical simulation analysis using a numerical integration technique in physical coordinates. In particular, results for the case of a clamped-clamped beam are considered for an extensive load range to establish the limits of validity of the equivalent linearization approach.

Hermaphroditism demonstrated by computed tomography

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

Gale, M.E.

1983-07-01

The categorization of disorders of gender differentiation is based on chromosome analysis, physical examination, gonadal histology, and endocrine evaluation. In most cases of hermaphroditism, radiologic studies have been limited to assessment of associated urinary tract anomalies before surgical revconstruction. Noninvasive evaluation with computed tomography (CT) or sonography is potentially useful for investigation of internal pelvic anatomy in these cases. A case report of a 65-year-old man is reported. (KRM)

A rule-based software test data generator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Deason, William H.; Brown, David B.; Chang, Kai-Hsiung; Cross, James H., II

1991-01-01

Rule-based software test data generation is proposed as an alternative to either path/predicate analysis or random data generation. A prototype rule-based test data generator for Ada programs is constructed and compared to a random test data generator. Four Ada procedures are used in the comparison. Approximately 2000 rule-based test cases and 100,000 randomly generated test cases are automatically generated and executed. The success of the two methods is compared using standard coverage metrics. Simple statistical tests showing that even the primitive rule-based test data generation prototype is significantly better than random data generation are performed. This result demonstrates that rule-based test data generation is feasible and shows great promise in assisting test engineers, especially when the rule base is developed further.

Masked Visual Analysis: Minimizing Type I Error in Visually Guided Single-Case Design for Communication Disorders

PubMed Central

Hitchcock, Elaine R.; Ferron, John

2017-01-01

Purpose Single-case experimental designs are widely used to study interventions for communication disorders. Traditionally, single-case experiments follow a response-guided approach, where design decisions during the study are based on participants' observed patterns of behavior. However, this approach has been criticized for its high rate of Type I error. In masked visual analysis (MVA), response-guided decisions are made by a researcher who is blinded to participants' identities and treatment assignments. MVA also makes it possible to conduct a hypothesis test assessing the significance of treatment effects. Method This tutorial describes the principles of MVA, including both how experiments can be set up and how results can be used for hypothesis testing. We then report a case study showing how MVA was deployed in a multiple-baseline across-subjects study investigating treatment for residual errors affecting rhotics. Strengths and weaknesses of MVA are discussed. Conclusions Given their important role in the evidence base that informs clinical decision making, it is critical for single-case experimental studies to be conducted in a way that allows researchers to draw valid inferences. As a method that can increase the rigor of single-case studies while preserving the benefits of a response-guided approach, MVA warrants expanded attention from researchers in communication disorders. PMID:28595354

Alternative approaches to analytical designs in occupational injury epidemiology.

PubMed

Mittleman, M A; Maldonado, G; Gerberich, S G; Smith, G S; Sorock, G S

1997-08-01

In this paper, we discuss the theoretical framework upon which observational studies of occupational injuries are based. Following a general description of how causal effects are estimated, the challenges faced by researchers working in this area are outlined, with an emphasis on case-control studies. These challenges include defining the at-risk period for workers whose tasks change over time and whose hazard period may be very brief, evaluating the underreporting of both exposures and injuries, and considering the effects of multiple injuries per individual on study design and data analysis. We review both the theoretical and practical considerations in the design and conduct of traditional case-control studies, based on the collection of individual level data, as well as other approaches, such as using information culled from administrative and descriptive databases, and case-control studies in which the plant or work site is the unit of analysis. The case-crossover design is also reviewed and its utility for reducing confounding due to differences between individuals by self-matching is highlighted. While this design has not yet been applied to the work setting, its potential for increasing our understanding of the causes of acute-onset occupational injuries seems promising. Finally, a variety of hybrid designs are discussed, including combinations of case-control, case-crossover, and cohort designs.

Masked Visual Analysis: Minimizing Type I Error in Visually Guided Single-Case Design for Communication Disorders.

PubMed

Byun, Tara McAllister; Hitchcock, Elaine R; Ferron, John

2017-06-10

Single-case experimental designs are widely used to study interventions for communication disorders. Traditionally, single-case experiments follow a response-guided approach, where design decisions during the study are based on participants' observed patterns of behavior. However, this approach has been criticized for its high rate of Type I error. In masked visual analysis (MVA), response-guided decisions are made by a researcher who is blinded to participants' identities and treatment assignments. MVA also makes it possible to conduct a hypothesis test assessing the significance of treatment effects. This tutorial describes the principles of MVA, including both how experiments can be set up and how results can be used for hypothesis testing. We then report a case study showing how MVA was deployed in a multiple-baseline across-subjects study investigating treatment for residual errors affecting rhotics. Strengths and weaknesses of MVA are discussed. Given their important role in the evidence base that informs clinical decision making, it is critical for single-case experimental studies to be conducted in a way that allows researchers to draw valid inferences. As a method that can increase the rigor of single-case studies while preserving the benefits of a response-guided approach, MVA warrants expanded attention from researchers in communication disorders.

Assessing the detail needed to capture rainfall-runoff dynamics with physics-based hydrologic response simulation

USGS Publications Warehouse

Mirus, B.B.; Ebel, B.A.; Heppner, C.S.; Loague, K.

2011-01-01

Concept development simulation with distributed, physics-based models provides a quantitative approach for investigating runoff generation processes across environmental conditions. Disparities within data sets employed to design and parameterize boundary value problems used in heuristic simulation inevitably introduce various levels of bias. The objective was to evaluate the impact of boundary value problem complexity on process representation for different runoff generation mechanisms. The comprehensive physics-based hydrologic response model InHM has been employed to generate base case simulations for four well-characterized catchments. The C3 and CB catchments are located within steep, forested environments dominated by subsurface stormflow; the TW and R5 catchments are located in gently sloping rangeland environments dominated by Dunne and Horton overland flows. Observational details are well captured within all four of the base case simulations, but the characterization of soil depth, permeability, rainfall intensity, and evapotranspiration differs for each. These differences are investigated through the conversion of each base case into a reduced case scenario, all sharing the same level of complexity. Evaluation of how individual boundary value problem characteristics impact simulated runoff generation processes is facilitated by quantitative analysis of integrated and distributed responses at high spatial and temporal resolution. Generally, the base case reduction causes moderate changes in discharge and runoff patterns, with the dominant process remaining unchanged. Moderate differences between the base and reduced cases highlight the importance of detailed field observations for parameterizing and evaluating physics-based models. Overall, similarities between the base and reduced cases indicate that the simpler boundary value problems may be useful for concept development simulation to investigate fundamental controls on the spectrum of runoff generation mechanisms. Copyright 2011 by the American Geophysical Union.

Interaction between Maternal and Paternal SHMT1 C1420T Predisposes to Neural Tube Defects in the Fetus: Evidence from Case-Control and Family-Based Triad Approaches.

PubMed

K Rebekah, Prasoona; Tella, Sunitha; Buragadda, Srinadh; Tiruvatturu, Muni Kumari; Akka, Jyothy

2017-04-14

Neural tube defects (NTDs) are caused by the failure of neural tube formation which occurs during early embryonic development. NTDs are the most severe and leading cause of fetal mortality. Serine hydroxymethyl transferase (SHMT1) provides one-carbon units necessary for embryogenesis and defects in one-carbon production result in specific pathological conditions during pregnancy. The present study is aimed to evaluate the association of SHMT1 C1420T with NTD risk in the fetus using fetal, maternal and paternal groups by applying both case-control and family-based triad approaches. A total of 924 subjects including 124 NTD case-parent trios (n = 124 × 3 = 372) and 184 healthy control-parent trios (n = 184 × 3 = 552) from Telangana State, South India were analyzed. DNA from umbilical cord tissues and parental blood samples were extracted, and genotyped by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism. Statistical analysis used were SPSS, parent-of-origin effect (POE) analysis. Case-control study design demonstrated fetuses with homozygous variant genotype (TT) to be at risk toward spina bifida subtype (p = 0.022). Among parents, fathers with TT genotype were associated with anencephaly (p = 0.018) and spina bifida subtypes (p = 0.027) in the offspring. Of interest, maternal-paternal-offspring genotype incompatibility revealed maternal CT genotype in combination with paternal TT genotype increased risk for NTDs in the fetus (CTxTT = TT; p = 0.021). Family-based parent-of-origin effect linkage analysis revealed significant maternal over-transmission of variant allele to NTD fetuses (p < 0.01). The present study, using both case-control and family-based triad approach is the first report to demonstrate parental association of SHMT1 C1420T variant in conferring NTD risk in the fetus. Birth Defects Research, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Interaction between Maternal and Paternal SHMT1 C1420T Predisposes to Neural Tube Defects in the Fetus: Evidence from Case-Control and Family-Based Triad Approaches.

PubMed

K Rebekah, Prasoona; Tella, Sunitha; Buragadda, Srinadh; Tiruvatturu, Muni Kumari; Akka, Jyothy

2017-07-17

Neural tube defects (NTDs) are caused by the failure of neural tube formation which occurs during early embryonic development. NTDs are the most severe and leading cause of fetal mortality. Serine hydroxymethyl transferase (SHMT1) provides one-carbon units necessary for embryogenesis and defects in one-carbon production result in specific pathological conditions during pregnancy. The present study is aimed to evaluate the association of SHMT1 C1420T with NTD risk in the fetus using fetal, maternal and paternal groups by applying both case-control and family-based triad approaches. A total of 924 subjects including 124 NTD case-parent trios (n = 124 × 3 = 372) and 184 healthy control-parent trios (n = 184 × 3 = 552) from Telangana State, South India were analyzed. DNA from umbilical cord tissues and parental blood samples were extracted, and genotyped by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism. Statistical analysis used were SPSS, parent-of-origin effect (POE) analysis. Case-control study design demonstrated fetuses with homozygous variant genotype (TT) to be at risk toward spina bifida subtype (p = 0.022). Among parents, fathers with TT genotype were associated with anencephaly (p = 0.018) and spina bifida subtypes (p = 0.027) in the offspring. Of interest, maternal-paternal-offspring genotype incompatibility revealed maternal CT genotype in combination with paternal TT genotype increased risk for NTDs in the fetus (CTxTT = TT; p = 0.021). Family-based parent-of-origin effect linkage analysis revealed significant maternal over-transmission of variant allele to NTD fetuses (p < 0.01). The present study, using both case-control and family-based triad approach is the first report to demonstrate parental association of SHMT1 C1420T variant in conferring NTD risk in the fetus. Birth Defects Research 109:1020-1029, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Hyperactivity of the default-mode network in first-episode, drug-naive schizophrenia at rest revealed by family-based case-control and traditional case-control designs.

PubMed

Guo, Wenbin; Liu, Feng; Chen, Jindong; Wu, Renrong; Li, Lehua; Zhang, Zhikun; Chen, Huafu; Zhao, Jingping

2017-03-01

Abnormal regional activity and functional connectivity of the default-mode network (DMN) have been reported in schizophrenia. However, previous studies may have been biased by unmatched case-control design. To limit such bias, the present study used both the family-based case-control design and the traditional case-control design to investigate abnormal regional activity of the DMN in patients with schizophrenia at rest.Twenty-eight first-episode, drug-naive patients with schizophrenia, 28 age-, sex-matched unaffected siblings of the patients (family-based controls, FBC), and 40 healthy controls (HC) underwent resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scans. The group-independent component analysis and fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (fALFF) methods were used to analyze the data.Patients with schizophrenia show increased fALFF in an overlapped region of the right superior medial prefrontal cortex (MPFC) relative to the FBC and the HC. Compared with the HC, the patients and the FBC exhibit increased fALFF in an overlapped region of the left posterior cingulate cortex/precuneus (PCC/PCu). Furthermore, the z values of the 2 overlapped regions can separate the patients from the FBC/HC, and separate the patients/FBC from the HC with relatively high sensitivity and specificity.Both the family-based case-control and traditional case-control designs reveal hyperactivity of the DMN in first-episode, drug-naive patients with paranoid schizophrenia, which highlights the importance of the DMN in the neurobiology of schizophrenia. Family-based case-control design can limit the confounding effects of environmental factors in schizophrenia. Combination of the family-based case-control and traditional case-control designs may be a viable option for the neuroimaging studies.

Reflective practice: a framework for case manager development.

PubMed

Brubakken, Karen; Grant, Sara; Johnson, Mary K; Kollauf, Cynthia

2011-01-01

The role of a nurse case manager (NCM) incorporates practice that is built upon knowledge gained in other roles as well as components unique to case management. The concept of reflective practice was used in creating a framework to recognize the developmental stages that occur within community based case management practice. The formation of this framework and its uses are described in this article. The practice setting is a community based case management department in a large midwestern metropolitan health care system with Magnet recognition. Advanced practice nurses provide care for clients with chronic health conditions. Twenty-four narratives were used to identify behaviors of community based case managers and to distinguish stages of practice. The behaviors of advanced practice found within the narratives were labeled and analyzed for similarities. Related behaviors were grouped and descriptor statements were written. These statements grouped into 3 domains of practice: relationship/partnership, coordination/collaboration, and clinical knowledge/decision making. The statements in each domain showed practice variations from competent to expert, and 3 stages were determined. Reliability and validity of the framework involved analysis of additional narratives. The reflective practice process, used for monthly case review presentations, provides opportunity for professional development and group learning focused on improving case manager practice. The framework is also being used in orientation as new case managers acclimate to the role. Reflective writing has unveiled the richness and depth of nurse case manager practice. The depth of knowledge and skills involved in community-based case management is captured within this reflective practice framework. This framework provides a format for describing community based case manager practice development over the course of time and has been used as a tool for orientation and peer review.

A performance analysis method for distributed real-time robotic systems: A case study of remote teleoperation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lefebvre, D. R.; Sanderson, A. C.

1994-01-01

Robot coordination and control systems for remote teleoperation applications are by necessity implemented on distributed computers. Modeling and performance analysis of these distributed robotic systems is difficult, but important for economic system design. Performance analysis methods originally developed for conventional distributed computer systems are often unsatisfactory for evaluating real-time systems. The paper introduces a formal model of distributed robotic control systems; and a performance analysis method, based on scheduling theory, which can handle concurrent hard-real-time response specifications. Use of the method is illustrated by a case of remote teleoperation which assesses the effect of communication delays and the allocation of robot control functions on control system hardware requirements.

Partners for the optimal organisation of the healthcare continuum for high users of health and social services: protocol of a developmental evaluation case study design.

PubMed

Hudon, Catherine; Chouinard, Maud-Christine; Couture, Martine; Brousselle, Astrid; Couture, Eva Marjorie; Dubois, Marie-France; Fortin, Martin; Freund, Tobias; Loignon, Christine; Mireault, Jean; Pluye, Pierre; Roberge, Pasquale; Rodriguez, Charo

2014-12-02

Case management allows us to respond to the complex needs of a vulnerable clientele through a structured approach that promotes enhanced interaction between partners. Syntheses on the subject converge towards a need for a better description of the relationships between programmes and their local context, as well as the characteristics of the clienteles and programmes that contribute to positive impacts. The purpose of this project is thus to describe and evaluate the case management programmes of four health and social services centres in the Saguenay-Lac- Saint-Jean region of Québec, Canada, in order to inform their improvement while creating knowledge on case management that can be useful in other contexts. This research relies on a multiple embedded case study design based on a developmental evaluation approach. We will work with the case management programme for high users of hospital services of each centre. Three different units of analysis will be interwoven to obtain an in-depth understanding of each case, that is: (1) health and social services centre and local services network, (2) case management programme and (3) patients who are high users of services. Two strategies for programme evaluation (logic models and implementation analysis) will guide the mixed data collection based on qualitative and quantitative methods. This data collection will rely on: (1) individual interviews and focus groups; (2) participant observation; (3) document analysis; (4) clinical and administrative data and (5) questionnaires. Description and comparison of cases, and integration of qualitative and quantitative data will be used to guide the data analysis. The study protocol was approved by the Ethics Research Boards of the four health and social services centres (HSSCs) involved. Findings will be disseminated by publications in peer-reviewed journals, conferences, and policy and practice partners in local and national government. 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.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of the economic impact of smoking bans in restaurants and bars.

PubMed

Cornelsen, Laura; McGowan, Yvonne; Currie-Murphy, Laura M; Normand, Charles

2014-05-01

To review systematically the literature on the economic impact of smoking bans in bars and restaurants and provide an estimate of the impact size using meta-analysis. Studies were identified by systematic database searches and screening references of reviews and relevant studies. Google and web-pages of tobacco control agencies were also searched. The review identified 56 studies using absolute sales, sales ratio or employment data and employing regression methods to evaluate the impact of smoking bans in the United States, Australia or in countries in South America or Europe. The meta-analysis included 39 comparable studies, with 129 cases identified based on the outcome measure, scope of the ban, type of establishment and geographical location. Methodological quality was assessed based on four pre-determined criteria. Study and case selection and data extraction were conducted independently by two researchers. Random-effects meta-analysis of all cases showed no associations between smoking bans and changes in absolute sales or employment. An increase in the share of bar and restaurant sector sales in total retail sales was associated with smoking bans [0.23 percentage-points; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.08-0.375]. When cases were separated by business type (bars or restaurants or wider hospitality including bars and restaurants), some differential impacts emerged. Meta-analysis of the economic impact of smoking bans in hospitality sector showed overall no substantial economic gains or losses. Differential impacts were observed across individual business types and outcome variable, but at aggregate level these appear to balance out. © 2014 Society for the Study of Addiction.

Temporal radiographic texture analysis in the detection of periprosthetic osteolysis

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

Wilkie, Joel R.; Giger, Maryellen L.; Chinander, Michael R.

2008-01-15

Periprosthetic osteolysis is one of the most serious long-term problems in total hip arthroplasty. It has been primarily attributed to the body's inflammatory response to submicron polyethylene particles worn from the hip implant, and it leads to bone loss and structural deterioration in the surrounding bone. It was previously demonstrated that radiographic texture analysis (RTA) has the ability to distinguish between osteolysis and normal cases at the time of clinical detection of the disease; however, that analysis did not take into account the changes in texture over time. The goal of this preliminary analysis, however, is to assess the abilitymore » of temporal radiographic texture analysis (tRTA) to distinguish between patients who develop osteolysis and normal cases. Two tRTA methods were used in the study: the RTA feature change from baseline at various follow-up intervals and the slope of the best-fit line to the RTA data series. These tRTA methods included Fourier-based and fractal-based features calculated from digitized images of 202 total hip replacement cases, including 70 that developed osteolysis. Results show that separation between the osteolysis and normal groups increased over time for the feature difference method, as the disease progressed, with area under the curve (AUC) values from receiver operating characteristic analysis of 0.65 to 0.72 at 15 years postsurgery. Separation for the slope method was also evident, with AUC values ranging from 0.65 to 0.76 for the task of distinguishing between osteolysis and normal cases. The results suggest that tRTA methods have the ability to measure changes in trabecular structure, and may be useful in the early detection of periprosthetic osteolysis.« less

Early detection for cases of enterovirus- and influenza-like illness through a newly established school-based syndromic surveillance system in Taipei, January 2010 ~ August 2011.

PubMed

Weng, Ting Chia; Chan, Ta Chien; Lin, Hsien Tang; Chang, Chia Kun Jasper; Wang, Wen Wen; Li, Zheng Rong Tiger; Cheng, Hao-Yuan; Chu, Yu-Roo; Chiu, Allen Wen-Hsiang; Yen, Muh-Yong; King, Chwan-Chuen

2015-01-01

School children may transmit pathogens with cluster cases occurring on campuses and in families. In response to the 2009 influenza A (H1N1) pandemic, Taipei City Government officials developed a School-based Infectious Disease Syndromic Surveillance System (SID-SSS). Teachers and nurses from preschools to universities in all 12 districts within Taipei are required to daily report cases of symptomatic children or sick leave requests through the SID-SSS. The pre-diagnosis at schools is submitted firstly as common pediatric disease syndrome-groups and re-submitted after confirmation by physicians. We retrieved these data from January 2010 to August 2011 for spatio-temporal analysis and evaluated the temporal trends with cases obtained from both the Emergency Department-based Syndromic Surveillance System (ED-SSS) and the Longitudinal Health Insurance Database 2005 (LHID2005). Through the SID-SSS, enterovirus-like illness (EVI) and influenza-like illness (ILI) were the two most reported syndrome groups (77.6% and 15.8% among a total of 19,334 cases, respectively). The pre-diagnosis judgments made by school teachers and nurses showed high consistency with physicians' clinical diagnoses for EVI (97.8%) and ILI (98.9%). Most importantly, the SID-SSS had better timeliness with earlier peaks of EVI and ILI than those in the ED-SSS. Furthermore, both of the syndrome groups in these two surveillance systems had the best correlation reaching 0.98 and 0.95, respectively (p<0.01). Spatio-temporal analysis observed the patterns of EVI and ILI both diffuse from the northern suburban districts to central Taipei, with ILI spreading faster. This novel system can identify early suspected cases of two important pediatric infections occurring at schools, and clusters from schools/families. It was also cost-effective (95.5% of the operation cost reduced and 59.7% processing time saved). The timely surveillance of mild EVI and ILI cases integrated with spatial analysis may help public health decision-makers with where to target for enhancing surveillance and prevention measures to minimize severe cases.

Early Detection for Cases of Enterovirus- and Influenza-Like Illness through a Newly Established School-Based Syndromic Surveillance System in Taipei, January 2010 ~ August 2011

PubMed Central

Weng, Ting Chia; Chan, Ta Chien; Li, Zheng Rong Tiger; Cheng, Hao-Yuan; Chu, Yu-Roo; Chiu, Allen Wen-Hsiang; Yen, Muh-Yong; King, Chwan-Chuen

2015-01-01

School children may transmit pathogens with cluster cases occurring on campuses and in families. In response to the 2009 influenza A (H1N1) pandemic, Taipei City Government officials developed a School-based Infectious Disease Syndromic Surveillance System (SID-SSS). Teachers and nurses from preschools to universities in all 12 districts within Taipei are required to daily report cases of symptomatic children or sick leave requests through the SID-SSS. The pre-diagnosis at schools is submitted firstly as common pediatric disease syndrome-groups and re-submitted after confirmation by physicians. We retrieved these data from January 2010 to August 2011 for spatio-temporal analysis and evaluated the temporal trends with cases obtained from both the Emergency Department-based Syndromic Surveillance System (ED-SSS) and the Longitudinal Health Insurance Database 2005 (LHID2005). Through the SID-SSS, enterovirus-like illness (EVI) and influenza-like illness (ILI) were the two most reported syndrome groups (77.6% and 15.8% among a total of 19,334 cases, respectively). The pre-diagnosis judgments made by school teachers and nurses showed high consistency with physicians’ clinical diagnoses for EVI (97.8%) and ILI (98.9%). Most importantly, the SID-SSS had better timeliness with earlier peaks of EVI and ILI than those in the ED-SSS. Furthermore, both of the syndrome groups in these two surveillance systems had the best correlation reaching 0.98 and 0.95, respectively (p<0.01). Spatio-temporal analysis observed the patterns of EVI and ILI both diffuse from the northern suburban districts to central Taipei, with ILI spreading faster. This novel system can identify early suspected cases of two important pediatric infections occurring at schools, and clusters from schools/families. It was also cost-effective (95.5% of the operation cost reduced and 59.7% processing time saved). The timely surveillance of mild EVI and ILI cases integrated with spatial analysis may help public health decision-makers with where to target for enhancing surveillance and prevention measures to minimize severe cases. PMID:25875080

Non-front-fanged colubroid snakes: a current evidence-based analysis of medical significance.

PubMed

Weinstein, Scott A; White, Julian; Keyler, Daniel E; Warrell, David A

2013-07-01

Non-front-fanged colubroid snakes (NFFC; formerly and artificially taxonomically assembled as "colubrids") comprise about 70% of extant snake species and include several taxa now known to cause lethal or life threatening envenoming in humans. Although the medical risks of bites by only a handful of species have been documented, a growing number of NFFC are implicated in medically significant bites. The majority of these snakes have oral products (Duvernoy's secretions, or venoms) with unknown biomedical properties and their potential for causing harm in humans is unknown. Increasingly, multiple NFFC species are entering the commercial snake trade posing an uncertain risk. Published case reports describing NFFC bites were assessed for evidence-based value, clinical detail and verified species identification. These data were subjected to meta-analysis and a hazard index was generated for select taxa. Cases on which we consulted or personally treated were included and subjected to the same assessment criteria. Cases involving approximately 120 species met the selection criteria, and a small subset designated Hazard Level 1 (most hazardous), contained 5 species with lethal potential. Recommended management of these cases included antivenom for 3 species, Dispholidus typus, Rhabdophis tiginis, Rhabdophis subminiatus, whereas others in this subset without commercially available antivenoms (Thelotornis spp.) were treated with plasma/erythrocyte replacement therapy and supportive care. Heparin, antifibrinolytics and/or plasmapheresis/exchange transfusion have been used in the management of some Hazard Level 1 envenomings, but evidence-based analysis positively contraindicates the use of any of these interventions. Hazard Level 2/3 species were involved in cases containing mixed quality data that implicated these taxa (e.g. Boiga irregularis, Philodryas olfersii, Malpolon monspessulanus) with bites that caused rare systemic effects. Recommended management may include use of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (e.g. neostigmine) and wound care on a case-by-case basis. Hazard level 3 species comprised a larger group capable of producing significant local effects only, often associated with a protracted bite (eg Heterodon nasicus, Borikenophis (Alsophis) portoricensis, Platyceps (Coluber) rhodorachis). Management is restricted to wound care. Bites by Hazard level 4 species comprised the majority of surveyed taxa and these showed only minor effects of no clinical importance. This study has produced a comprehensive evidence-based listing of NFFC snakes tabulated against medical significance of bites, together with best-practice management recommendations. This analysis assumes increasing importance, as there is growing exposure to lesser-known NFFC snakes, particularly in captive collections that may uncover further species of significance in the future. Careful and accurate documentation of bites by verified species of NFFC snakes is required to increase the evidence base and establish the best medical management approach for each species. Crown Copyright © 2013. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Theories and Applications of Massive Online Open Courses (MOOCs): The Case for Hybrid Design

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Anders, Abram

2015-01-01

Initial studies of learning in massive open online courses (MOOCs) primarily focused on participation patterns and participant experiences. More recently, research has addressed learning theories and offered case studies of different pedagogical designs for MOOCs. Based on a meta-analysis and synthesis of the research literature, this study…

Addressing the Nets for Students through Constructivist Technology Use in K-12 Classrooms

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Niederhauser, Dale S.; Lindstrom, Denise L.

2006-01-01

The National Educational Technology Standards for Students promote constructivist technology use for K-12 students in U.S. schools. In this study, researchers reported on 716 cases in which teachers described technology-based activities they conducted with their students. Narrative analysis was used to examine case transcripts relative to the…

One or Two-Way Communication: A Case Study on Offender Counseling

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Guo, Jing-Ying

2012-01-01

Offender counseling has been booming in China with typical Chinese characteristics, one of the most prominent of which is the possession of dual identities by both parties during the counseling interaction. This article, based on conversation analysis, focuses on one case study and examines "what is actually going on" between the police…

2500 KW Ship Service Turbine Generator Casing Welded Inconel Plug Failure and Repair Analysis

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-06-01

tungsten arc welding process ( GTAW ) were specified. Heat input was carefully controlled. The following changes to the procedure were recommended...properties had be assigned. The turbine casing base metal is Chromium Molybdenum Alloy Steel (MIL-C-24707/2 or ASTM A217, grade WC6). The inlay is

Answering the Call for Accountability: An Activity and Cost Analysis Case Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carducci, Rozana; Kisker, Carrie B.; Chang, June; Schirmer, James

2007-01-01

This article summarizes the findings of a case study on the creation and application of an activity-based cost accounting model that links community college salary expenditures to mission-critical practices within academic divisions of a southern California community college. Although initially applied as a financial management tool in private…

Recommendation Analysis for an Ambulatory Surgical Center at Brooke Army Medical Center

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-06-10

impacts BAMC’s ability to maintain or increase the throughput of surgery cases. Anesthesiology and Operative services maintains12 surgical suites, where...established in 1990. This rate is based on a fee schedule that bundles facility services such as nursing, recovery, anesthetics, and supplies. Based...this researcher selected the high volume services (ophthalmology, general surgery , otolaryngology, gynecology, and orthopedics) for this analysis. Hours

Becoming a Narrator: A Case Study in the Dynamics of Learning Based on the Theories/Methods of Vygotsky

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jansson, Anders B.

2011-01-01

This article focuses on the learning that is enabled while a primary school child makes a story using multimodal software. This child is diagnosed with autism. The aim is to use a cultural-historical framework to carry out an in-depth analysis of a process of learning with action as a unit of analysis. The article is based on a collaborative…

Correlation analysis of air pollutant index levels and dengue cases across five different zones in Selangor, Malaysia.

PubMed

Thiruchelvam, Loshini; Dass, Sarat C; Zaki, Rafdzah; Yahya, Abqariyah; Asirvadam, Vijanth S

2018-05-07

This study investigated the potential relationship between dengue cases and air quality - as measured by the Air Pollution Index (API) for five zones in the state of Selangor, Malaysia. Dengue case patterns can be learned using prediction models based on feedback (lagged terms). However, the question whether air quality affects dengue cases is still not thoroughly investigated based on such feedback models. This work developed dengue prediction models using the autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) and ARIMA with an exogeneous variable (ARIMAX) time series methodologies with API as the exogeneous variable. The Box Jenkins approach based on maximum likelihood was used for analysis as it gives effective model estimates and prediction. Three stages of model comparison were carried out for each zone: first with ARIMA models without API, then ARIMAX models with API data from the API station for that zone and finally, ARIMAX models with API data from the zone and spatially neighbouring zones. Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC) gives goodness-of-fit versus parsimony comparisons between all elicited models. Our study found that ARIMA models, with the lowest BIC value, outperformed the rest in all five zones. The BIC values for the zone of Kuala Selangor were -800.66, -796.22, and -790.5229, respectively, for ARIMA only, ARIMAX with single API component and ARIMAX with API components from its zone and spatially neighbouring zones. Therefore, we concluded that API levels, either temporally for each zone or spatio- temporally based on neighbouring zones, do not have a significant effect on dengue cases.

Estimation of risk of cancers before occurrence of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome in persons infected with human immunodeficiency virus.

PubMed

Li, Yueming; Law, Matthew; McDonald, Ann; Correll, Patty; Kaldor, John M; Grulich, Andrew E

2002-01-15

There is methodological debate as to whether cohorts defined by acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) diagnosis can be used to estimate risks of cancer in persons with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) before AIDS. The authors compared risks of non-AIDS-defining cancers before AIDS in persons with HIV using a cohort based on AIDS diagnosis and a second cohort based on HIV diagnosis. National population-based registries of AIDS and HIV diagnoses to August 1999 were matched separately with the National Cancer Registry in Australia. Four analyses were performed. In analysis 1, follow-up was from 5 years before AIDS registration in 8,118 persons with AIDS. Analysis 2 was similar but adjusted expected numbers of cancers for decreased survival. Analysis 3 was based on 7,061 persons registered with HIV, with follow-up from the reported date of diagnosis. Analysis 4 was based on 2,112 AIDS cases previously reported with HIV, with follow-up from 5 years before AIDS diagnosis. In all analyses, follow-up ended at cancer diagnosis, death, 6 months before AIDS, or the end of available cancer data, whichever occurred first. For 10 types of cancer there were at least three cases in any one of the analyses. For these cancers there was no systematic pattern such that one analysis produced consistently higher or lower estimates than the others. These analyses suggest that cancer risk in persons with HIV before AIDS diagnosis may be estimated reliably based on cancer experience 5 years before AIDS.

Assessing different measures of population-level vaccine protection using a case-control study.

PubMed

Ali, Mohammad; You, Young Ae; Kanungo, Suman; Manna, Byomkesh; Deen, Jacqueline L; Lopez, Anna Lena; Wierzba, Thomas F; Bhattacharya, Sujit K; Sur, Dipika; Clemens, John D

2015-11-27

Case-control studies have not been examined for their utility in assessing population-level vaccine protection in individually randomized trials. We used the data of a randomized, placebo-controlled trial of a cholera vaccine to compare the results of case-control analyses with those of cohort analyses. Cases of cholera were selected from the trial population followed for three years following dosing. For each case, we selected 4 age-matched controls who had not developed cholera. For each case and control, GIS was used to calculate vaccine coverage of individuals in a surrounding "virtual" cluster. Specific selection strategies were used to evaluate the vaccine protective effects. 66,900 out of 108,389 individuals received two doses of the assigned regimen. For direct protection among subjects in low vaccine coverage clusters, we observed 78% (95% CI: 47-91%) protection in a cohort analysis and 84% (95% CI: 60-94%) in case-control analysis after adjusting for confounding factors. Using our GIS-based approach, estimated indirect protection was 52% (95% CI: 10-74%) in cohort and 76% (95% CI: 47-89%) in case control analysis. Estimates of total and overall effectiveness were similar for cohort and case-control analyses. The findings show that case-control analyses of individually randomized vaccine trials may be used to evaluate direct as well as population-level vaccine protection. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

A blueprint-based case study analysis of nutrition services provided in a midterm care facility for the elderly.

PubMed

Paquet, Catherine; St-Arnaud-Mckenzie, Danielle; Ferland, Guylaine; Dubé, Laurette

2003-03-01

Ensuring nutritionally adequate food intake in institutions is a complex and important challenge for dietitians. To tackle this problem, we argue that dietitians need to adopt a systematic, integrative, and patient-centered approach to identify and manage more effectively organizational determinants of the quality of food intake under their control. In this study, we introduce such an approach, the blueprint-based case study, that we applied in the context of a midterm care facility for elderly patients. Data gathered through interviews and field observations were used to develop, from the perspective of key patient encounters, detailed representations of the food, nutrition, and nursing activities necessary to ensure adequate food intake. These service "blueprints" were developed to illustrate all activities that might potentially impact on the nutritional, sensory, functional, and social quality of patients' meals. They were also used as roadmaps to develop a case study analysis in which critical areas were identified and opportunities for improvement put forth, while considering services' resources and priorities. By providing a precise, objective, yet comprehensive mapping of the service operations and management, the blueprint-based case study approach represents a valuable tool to determine the optimal allocation of resources to insure nutritionally adequate food intake to patients.

Analysis of Levene's Test under Design Imbalance.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Keyes, Tim K.; Levy, Martin S.

1997-01-01

H. Levene (1960) proposed a heuristic test for heteroscedasticity in the case of a balanced two-way layout, based on analysis of variance of absolute residuals. Conditions under which design imbalance affects the test's characteristics are identified, and a simple correction involving leverage is proposed. (SLD)

SOLVENT-BASED TO WATERBASED ADHESIVE-COATED SUBSTRATE RETROFIT - VOLUME I: COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS

EPA Science Inventory

This volume represents the analysis of case study facilities' experience with waterbased adhesive use and retrofit requirements. (NOTE: The coated and laminated substrate manufacturing industry was selected as part of NRMRL'S support of the 33/50 Program because of its significan...

The Art of Strategic Management: A Case-Based Exercise

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Maranville, Steven

2011-01-01

This article contends that the strategic thinking process is composed of two joint, but paradigmatically distinct, activities--analysis and synthesis. Analysis represents the scientific paradigm, whereas synthesis represents the artistic paradigm. Nevertheless, the Strategic Management course is dominated by the scientific paradigm, even though…

Automatic segmentation and supervised learning-based selection of nuclei in cancer tissue images.

PubMed

Nandy, Kaustav; Gudla, Prabhakar R; Amundsen, Ryan; Meaburn, Karen J; Misteli, Tom; Lockett, Stephen J

2012-09-01

Analysis of preferential localization of certain genes within the cell nuclei is emerging as a new technique for the diagnosis of breast cancer. Quantitation requires accurate segmentation of 100-200 cell nuclei in each tissue section to draw a statistically significant result. Thus, for large-scale analysis, manual processing is too time consuming and subjective. Fortuitously, acquired images generally contain many more nuclei than are needed for analysis. Therefore, we developed an integrated workflow that selects, following automatic segmentation, a subpopulation of accurately delineated nuclei for positioning of fluorescence in situ hybridization-labeled genes of interest. Segmentation was performed by a multistage watershed-based algorithm and screening by an artificial neural network-based pattern recognition engine. The performance of the workflow was quantified in terms of the fraction of automatically selected nuclei that were visually confirmed as well segmented and by the boundary accuracy of the well-segmented nuclei relative to a 2D dynamic programming-based reference segmentation method. Application of the method was demonstrated for discriminating normal and cancerous breast tissue sections based on the differential positioning of the HES5 gene. Automatic results agreed with manual analysis in 11 out of 14 cancers, all four normal cases, and all five noncancerous breast disease cases, thus showing the accuracy and robustness of the proposed approach. Published 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Meta-analysis identifies a MECOM gene as a novel predisposing factor of osteoporotic fracture

PubMed Central

Hwang, Joo-Yeon; Lee, Seung Hun; Go, Min Jin; Kim, Beom-Jun; Kou, Ikuyo; Ikegawa, Shiro; Guo, Yan; Deng, Hong-Wen; Raychaudhuri, Soumya; Kim, Young Jin; Oh, Ji Hee; Kim, Youngdoe; Moon, Sanghoon; Kim, Dong-Joon; Koo, Heejo; Cha, My-Jung; Lee, Min Hye; Yun, Ji Young; Yoo, Hye-Sook; Kang, Young-Ah; Cho, Eun-Hee; Kim, Sang-Wook; Oh, Ki Won; Kang, Moo II; Son, Ho Young; Kim, Shin-Yoon; Kim, Ghi Su; Han, Bok-Ghee; Cho, Yoon Shin; Cho, Myeong-Chan; Lee, Jong-Young; Koh, Jung-Min

2014-01-01

Background Osteoporotic fracture (OF) as a clinical endpoint is a major complication of osteoporosis. To screen for OF susceptibility genes, we performed a genome-wide association study and carried out de novo replication analysis of an East Asian population. Methods Association was tested using a logistic regression analysis. A meta-analysis was performed on the combined results using effect size and standard errors estimated for each study. Results In a combined meta-analysis of a discovery cohort (288 cases and 1139 controls), three hospital based sets in replication stage I (462 cases and 1745 controls), and an independent ethnic group in replication stage II (369 cases and 560 for controls), we identified a new locus associated with OF (rs784288 in the MECOM gene) that showed genome-wide significance (p=3.59×10−8; OR 1.39). RNA interference revealed that a MECOM knockdown suppresses osteoclastogenesis. Conclusions Our findings provide new insights into the genetic architecture underlying OF in East Asians. PMID:23349225

A land classification protocol for pollinator ecology research: An urbanization case study.

PubMed

Samuelson, Ash E; Leadbeater, Ellouise

2018-06-01

Land-use change is one of the most important drivers of widespread declines in pollinator populations. Comprehensive quantitative methods for land classification are critical to understanding these effects, but co-option of existing human-focussed land classifications is often inappropriate for pollinator research. Here, we present a flexible GIS-based land classification protocol for pollinator research using a bottom-up approach driven by reference to pollinator ecology, with urbanization as a case study. Our multistep method involves manually generating land cover maps at multiple biologically relevant radii surrounding study sites using GIS, with a focus on identifying land cover types that have a specific relevance to pollinators. This is followed by a three-step refinement process using statistical tools: (i) definition of land-use categories, (ii) principal components analysis on the categories, and (iii) cluster analysis to generate a categorical land-use variable for use in subsequent analysis. Model selection is then used to determine the appropriate spatial scale for analysis. We demonstrate an application of our protocol using a case study of 38 sites across a gradient of urbanization in South-East England. In our case study, the land classification generated a categorical land-use variable at each of four radii based on the clustering of sites with different degrees of urbanization, open land, and flower-rich habitat. Studies of land-use effects on pollinators have historically employed a wide array of land classification techniques from descriptive and qualitative to complex and quantitative. We suggest that land-use studies in pollinator ecology should broadly adopt GIS-based multistep land classification techniques to enable robust analysis and aid comparative research. Our protocol offers a customizable approach that combines specific relevance to pollinator research with the potential for application to a wide range of ecological questions, including agroecological studies of pest control.

Skull base bony lesions: Management nuances; a retrospective analysis from a Tertiary Care Centre

PubMed Central

Singh, Amit Kumar; Srivastava, Arun Kumar; Sardhara, Jayesh; Bhaisora, Kamlesh Singh; Das, Kuntal Kanti; Mehrotra, Anant; Sahu, Rabi Narayan; Jaiswal, Awadhesh Kumar; Behari, Sanjay

2017-01-01

Background: Skull base lesions are not uncommon, but their management has been challenging for surgeons. There is large no of bony tumors at the skull base which has not been studied in detail as a group. These tumors are difficult not only because of their location but also due to their variability in the involvement of important local structure. Through this retrospective analysis from a Tertiary Care Centre, we are summarizing the details of skull base bony lesions and its management nuances. Materials and Methods: The histopathologically, radiologically, and surgically proven cases of skull base bony tumors or lesions involving bone were analyzed from the neurosurgery, neuropathology record of our Tertiary Care Institute from January 2009 to January 2014. All available preoperative and postoperative details were noted from their case files. The extent of excision was ascertained from operation records and postoperative magnetic resonance imaging if available. Results: We have surgically managed 41 cases of skull base bony tumors. It includes 11 patients of anterior skull base, 13 middle skull base, and 17 posterior skull base bony tumors. The most common bony tumor was chordoma 15 (36.6%), followed by fibrous dysplasia 5 (12.2%), chondrosarcoma (12.2%), and ewings sarcoma-peripheral primitive neuroectodermal tumor (EWS-pPNET) five cases (12.2%) each. There were more malignant lesions (n = 29, 70.7%) at skull base than benign (n = 12, 29.3%) lesions. The surgical approach employed depended on location of tumor and pathology. Total mortality was 8 (20%) of whom 5 patients were of histological proven EWS-pPNET. Conclusions: Bony skull base lesion consists of wide variety of lesions, and requires multispecialty management. The complex lesions required tailored approaches surgery of these lesions. With the advent of microsurgical and endoscopic techniques, and use of navigation better outcomes are being seen, but these lesions require further study for development of proper management plan. PMID:28761532

Application research of 3D additive manufacturing technology in the nail shell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xiao, Shanhua; Yan, Ruiqiang; Song, Ning

2018-04-01

Based on the analysis of hierarchical slicing algorithm, 3D scanning of enterprise product nailing handle case file is carried out, point cloud data processing is performed on the source file, and the surface modeling and innovative design of nail handling handle case are completed. Using MakerBot Replicator2X-based 3D printer for layered 3D print samples, for the new nail product development to provide reverse modeling and rapid prototyping technical support.

UXDs-Driven Transferring Method from TRIZ Solution to Domain Solution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Lihui; Cao, Guozhong; Chang, Yunxia; Wei, Zihui; Ma, Kai

The translation process from TRIZ solutions to domain solutions is an analogy-based process. TRIZ solutions, such as 40 inventive principles and the related cases, are medium-solutions for domain problems. Unexpected discoveries (UXDs) are the key factors to trigger designers to generate new ideas for domain solutions. The Algorithm of UXD resolving based on Means-Ends Analysis(MEA) is studied and an UXDs-driven transferring method from TRIZ solution to domain solution is formed. A case study shows the application of the process.

Watching the clock

PubMed Central

Fetterman, J. Gregor; Killeen, Peter R.; Hall, Scott

2008-01-01

Four rats and four pigeons were monitored while performing retrospective timing tasks. All animals displayed collateral behaviors which could have mediated their temporal judgements. Statistical analysis made a good case for such mediation in the case of two pigeons performing on a spatially-differentiated response, but not for the two responding on a color-differentiated response. For the rats, all of which performed on a spatially-differentiated task, prediction of their temporal judgements was always better if based on collateral activity than if based on the passage of time. PMID:19701487

Innovations in Site Characterization Case Study: Hanscom Air Force Base, Operable Unit 1

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This document is a condensation of the information provided in the much more detailed Hanscom AFB Report entitled A Dynamic Site Investigation: Adaptive Sampling and Analysis Program for Operable Unit 1 at Hanscom Air Force Base, Bedford, Massachusetts.

Comparing microscopic activity-based and traditional models of travel demand : an Austin area case study

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2007-09-01

Two competing approaches to travel demand modeling exist today. The more traditional 4-step travel demand models rely on aggregate demographic data at a traffic analysis zone (TAZ) level. Activity-based microsimulation methods employ more robus...

Inventory Control System for a Healthcare Apparel Service Centre with Stockout Risk: A Case Analysis

PubMed Central

Hui, Chi-Leung

2017-01-01

Based on the real-world inventory control problem of a capacitated healthcare apparel service centre in Hong Kong which provides tailor-made apparel-making services for the elderly and disabled people, this paper studies a partial backordered continuous review inventory control problem in which the product demand follows a Poisson process with a constant lead time. The system is controlled by an (Q,r) inventory policy which incorporate the stockout risk, storage capacity, and partial backlog. The healthcare apparel service centre, under the capacity constraint, aims to minimize the inventory cost and achieving a low stockout risk. To address this challenge, an optimization problem is constructed. A real case-based data analysis is conducted, and the result shows that the expected total cost on an order cycle is reduced substantially at around 20% with our proposed optimal inventory control policy. An extensive sensitivity analysis is conducted to generate additional insights. PMID:29527283

Inventory Control System for a Healthcare Apparel Service Centre with Stockout Risk: A Case Analysis.

PubMed

Pan, An; Hui, Chi-Leung

2017-01-01

Based on the real-world inventory control problem of a capacitated healthcare apparel service centre in Hong Kong which provides tailor-made apparel-making services for the elderly and disabled people, this paper studies a partial backordered continuous review inventory control problem in which the product demand follows a Poisson process with a constant lead time. The system is controlled by an ( Q , r ) inventory policy which incorporate the stockout risk, storage capacity, and partial backlog. The healthcare apparel service centre, under the capacity constraint, aims to minimize the inventory cost and achieving a low stockout risk. To address this challenge, an optimization problem is constructed. A real case-based data analysis is conducted, and the result shows that the expected total cost on an order cycle is reduced substantially at around 20% with our proposed optimal inventory control policy. An extensive sensitivity analysis is conducted to generate additional insights.

Moral deliberation and nursing ethics cases: elements of a methodological proposal.

PubMed

Schneider, Dulcinéia Ghizoni; Ramos, Flávia Regina Souza

2012-11-01

A qualitative study with an exploratory, descriptive and documentary design that was conducted with the objective of identifying the elements to constitute a method for the analysis of accusations of and proceedings for professional ethics infringements. The method is based on underlying elements identified inductively during analysis of professional ethics hearings judged by and filed in the archives of the Regional Nursing Board of Santa Catarina, Brazil, between 1999 and 2007. The strategies developed were based on the results of an analysis of the findings of fact (occurrences/infractions, causes and outcomes) contained in the records of 128 professional ethics hearings and on the structural elements (statements, rules and practices) identified in five example professional ethics cases. The strategies suggested for evaluating accusations of ethics infringements and the procedures involved in deliberating on ethics hearings constitute a generic proposal that will require adaptation to the context of specific professional ethics accusations.

An assessment of envelope-based demodulation in case of proximity of carrier and modulation frequencies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shahriar, Md Rifat; Borghesani, Pietro; Randall, R. B.; Tan, Andy C. C.

2017-11-01

Demodulation is a necessary step in the field of diagnostics to reveal faults whose signatures appear as an amplitude and/or frequency modulation. The Hilbert transform has conventionally been used for the calculation of the analytic signal required in the demodulation process. However, the carrier and modulation frequencies must meet the conditions set by the Bedrosian identity for the Hilbert transform to be applicable for demodulation. This condition, basically requiring the carrier frequency to be sufficiently higher than the frequency of the modulation harmonics, is usually satisfied in many traditional diagnostic applications (e.g. vibration analysis of gear and bearing faults) due to the order-of-magnitude ratio between the carrier and modulation frequency. However, the diversification of the diagnostic approaches and applications shows cases (e.g. electrical signature analysis-based diagnostics) where the carrier frequency is in close proximity to the modulation frequency, thus challenging the applicability of the Bedrosian theorem. This work presents an analytic study to quantify the error introduced by the Hilbert transform-based demodulation when the Bedrosian identity is not satisfied and proposes a mitigation strategy to combat the error. An experimental study is also carried out to verify the analytical results. The outcome of the error analysis sets a confidence limit on the estimated modulation (both shape and magnitude) achieved through the Hilbert transform-based demodulation in case of violated Bedrosian theorem. However, the proposed mitigation strategy is found effective in combating the demodulation error aroused in this scenario, thus extending applicability of the Hilbert transform-based demodulation.

Pathway-based analysis of GWAs data identifies association of sex determination genes with susceptibility to testicular germ cell tumors.

PubMed

Koster, Roelof; Mitra, Nandita; D'Andrea, Kurt; Vardhanabhuti, Saran; Chung, Charles C; Wang, Zhaoming; Loren Erickson, R; Vaughn, David J; Litchfield, Kevin; Rahman, Nazneen; Greene, Mark H; McGlynn, Katherine A; Turnbull, Clare; Chanock, Stephen J; Nathanson, Katherine L; Kanetsky, Peter A

2014-11-15

Genome-wide association (GWA) studies of testicular germ cell tumor (TGCT) have identified 18 susceptibility loci, some containing genes encoding proteins important in male germ cell development. Deletions of one of these genes, DMRT1, lead to male-to-female sex reversal and are associated with development of gonadoblastoma. To further explore genetic association with TGCT, we undertook a pathway-based analysis of SNP marker associations in the Penn GWAs (349 TGCT cases and 919 controls). We analyzed a custom-built sex determination gene set consisting of 32 genes using three different methods of pathway-based analysis. The sex determination gene set ranked highly compared with canonical gene sets, and it was associated with TGCT (FDRG = 2.28 × 10(-5), FDRM = 0.014 and FDRI = 0.008 for Gene Set Analysis-SNP (GSA-SNP), Meta-Analysis Gene Set Enrichment of Variant Associations (MAGENTA) and Improved Gene Set Enrichment Analysis for Genome-wide Association Study (i-GSEA4GWAS) analysis, respectively). The association remained after removal of DMRT1 from the gene set (FDRG = 0.0002, FDRM = 0.055 and FDRI = 0.009). Using data from the NCI GWA scan (582 TGCT cases and 1056 controls) and UK scan (986 TGCT cases and 4946 controls), we replicated these findings (NCI: FDRG = 0.006, FDRM = 0.014, FDRI = 0.033, and UK: FDRG = 1.04 × 10(-6), FDRM = 0.016, FDRI = 0.025). After removal of DMRT1 from the gene set, the sex determination gene set remains associated with TGCT in the NCI (FDRG = 0.039, FDRM = 0.050 and FDRI = 0.055) and UK scans (FDRG = 3.00 × 10(-5), FDRM = 0.056 and FDRI = 0.044). With the exception of DMRT1, genes in the sex determination gene set have not previously been identified as TGCT susceptibility loci in these GWA scans, demonstrating the complementary nature of a pathway-based approach for genome-wide analysis of TGCT. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Newly developed liquid-based cytology. TACAS™: cytological appearance and HPV testing using liquid-based sample.

PubMed

Kubushiro, Kaneyuki; Taoka, Hideki; Sakurai, Nobuyuki; Yamamoto, Yasuhiro; Kurasaki, Akiko; Asakawa, Yasuyuki; Iwahara, Minoru; Takahashi, Kei

2011-09-01

Cell profiles determined by the thin-layer advanced cytology assay system (TACAS™), a liquid-based cytology technique newly developed in Japan, were analyzed in this study. Hybrid capture 2 (HC-2) was also performed using the liquid-based samples prepared by TACAS to ascertain its ability to detect human papillomavirus (HPV). Cell collection samples from uterine cervix were obtained from 359 patients and examined cytologically. A HC-2 assay for HPV was carried out in the cell specimens. All specimens were found to show background factors such as leukocytes. After excluding the 5 unsatisfactory cases from the total 354 cases, 82 cases (23.2%) were positive and 272 cases (76.8%) were negative for HPV. Cell specimens from 30 HPV-positive cases and 166 HPV-negative cases were subjected to 4 weeks of preservation at room temperature. Then, when subsequently re-assayed, 28 cases (93.3%) in the former group were found to be HPV positive and 164 cases (98.8%) in the latter group were found to be HPV negative. These results supported the excellent reproducibility of TACAS for HPV testing. A reasonable inference from the foregoing analysis is that TACAS may be distinguished from other liquid-based cytological approaches, such as ThinPrep and SurePath, in that it can retain the cell backgrounds. Furthermore, this study raises the possibility that cell specimens prepared using TACAS could be preserved for at least 4 weeks prior to carrying out a HC-2 assay for HPV.

Exposure to pesticides as risk factor for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and hairy cell leukemia: pooled analysis of two Swedish case-control studies.

PubMed

Hardell, Lennart; Eriksson, Mikael; Nordstrom, Marie

2002-05-01

Increased risk for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) following exposure to certain pesticides has previously been reported. To further elucidate the importance of phenoxyacetic acids and other pesticides in the etiology of NHL a pooled analysis was performed on two case-control studies, one on NHL and another on hairy cell leukemia (HCL), a rare subtype of NHL. The studies were population based with cases identified from cancer registry and controls from population registry. Data assessment was ascertained by questionnaires supplemented over the telephone by specially trained interviewers. The pooled analysis of NHL and HCL was based on 515 cases and 1141 controls. Increased risks in univariate analysis were found for subjects exposed to herbicides (OR 1.75, CI 95% 1.26-2.42), insecticides (OR 1.43, CI 95% 1.08-1.87), fungicides (OR 3.11, CI 95% 1.56-6.27) and impregnating agents (OR 1.48, CI 95% 1.11-1.96). Among herbicides, significant associations were found for glyphosate (OR 3.04, CI 95% 1.08-8.52) and 4-chloro-2-methyl phenoxyacetic acid (MCPA) (OR 2.62, CI 95% 1.40-4.88). For several categories of pesticides the highest risk was found for exposure during the latest decades before diagnosis. However, in multivariate analyses the only significantly increased risk was for a heterogeneous category of other herbicides than above.

An Analysis of Base Pressure at Supersonic Velocities and Comparison with Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chapman, Dean R

1951-01-01

In the first part of the investigation an analysis is made of base pressure in an inviscid fluid, both for two-dimensional and axially symmetric flow. It is shown that for two-dimensional flow, and also for the flow over a body of revolution with a cylindrical sting attached to the base, there are an infinite number of possible solutions satisfying all necessary boundary conditions at any given free-stream Mach number. For the particular case of a body having no sting attached only one solution is possible in an inviscid flow, but it corresponds to zero base drag. Accordingly, it is concluded that a strictly inviscid-fluid theory cannot be satisfactory for practical applications. An approximate semi-empirical analysis for base pressure in a viscous fluid is developed in a second part of the investigation. The semi-empirical analysis is based partly on inviscid-flow calculations.

Using E-Exercise Bases in Mathematics: Case Studies at University

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cazes, Claire; Gueudet, Ghislaine; Hersant, Magali; Vandebrouck, Fabrice

2006-01-01

E-Exercise Bases (EEB) are now used in the teaching of mathematics, especially at university. We discuss here the consequences of their use on the students' activity during computer lab sessions. Results stem from observations of several teaching designs organised in different French universities with three e-exercise bases. The analysis focuses…

38 CFR 3.311 - Claims based on exposure to ionizing radiation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... body in the field of health physics, nuclear medicine or radiology and if based on analysis of the... follows: (i) Atmospheric nuclear weapons test participation claims. In claims based upon participation in atmospheric nuclear testing, dose data will in all cases be requested from the appropriate office of the...

38 CFR 3.311 - Claims based on exposure to ionizing radiation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... body in the field of health physics, nuclear medicine or radiology and if based on analysis of the... follows: (i) Atmospheric nuclear weapons test participation claims. In claims based upon participation in atmospheric nuclear testing, dose data will in all cases be requested from the appropriate office of the...

38 CFR 3.311 - Claims based on exposure to ionizing radiation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... body in the field of health physics, nuclear medicine or radiology and if based on analysis of the... follows: (i) Atmospheric nuclear weapons test participation claims. In claims based upon participation in atmospheric nuclear testing, dose data will in all cases be requested from the appropriate office of the...

Students' Perceptions of Their ICT-Based College English Course in China: A Case Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zinan, Wen; Sai, George Teoh Boon

2017-01-01

This study investigated foreign language students' perceptions about their Information and Communication Technology (ICT)-based College English Course (CEC) in China. The research used a five-point Likert-scale questionnaire based on Simsek (2008). A factor analysis confirmed the construct validity of the questionnaire and 6 factors were…

Earthquake Damage Assessment Using Objective Image Segmentation: A Case Study of 2010 Haiti Earthquake

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Oommen, Thomas; Rebbapragada, Umaa; Cerminaro, Daniel

2012-01-01

In this study, we perform a case study on imagery from the Haiti earthquake that evaluates a novel object-based approach for characterizing earthquake induced surface effects of liquefaction against a traditional pixel based change technique. Our technique, which combines object-oriented change detection with discriminant/categorical functions, shows the power of distinguishing earthquake-induced surface effects from changes in buildings using the object properties concavity, convexity, orthogonality and rectangularity. Our results suggest that object-based analysis holds promise in automatically extracting earthquake-induced damages from high-resolution aerial/satellite imagery.

[Procedural analysis of acid-base balance disorder: case serials in 4 patents].

PubMed

Ma, Chunyuan; Wang, Guijie

2017-05-01

To establish the standardization process of acid-base balance analysis, analyze cases of acid-base balance disorder with the aid of acid-base balance coordinate graph. The acid-base balance theory were reviewed systematically on recent research progress, and the important concepts, definitions, formulas, parameters, regularity and inference in the analysis of acid-base balance were studied. The analysis of acid-base balance disordered processes and steps were figured. The application of acid-base balance coordinate graph in the cases was introduced. The method of "four parameters-four steps" analysis was put forward to analyze the acid-base balance disorders completely. "Four parameters" included pH, arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO 2 ), HCO 3 - and anion gap (AG). "Four steps" were outlined by following aspects: (1) according to the pH, PaCO 2 and HCO 3 - , the primary or main types of acid-base balance disorder was determined; (2) primary or main types of acid-base disorder were used to choose the appropriate compensation formula and to determine the presence of double mixed acid-base balance disorder; (3) the primary acid-base balance disorders were divided into two parts: respiratory acidosis or respiratory alkalosis, at the same time, the potential HCO 3 - should be calculated, the measured HCO 3 - should be replaced with potential HCO 3 - , to determine whether there were three mixed acid-base disorders; (4) based on the above analysis the data judged as the simple AG increased-metabolic acidosis was needed to be further analyzed. The ratio of ΔAG↑/ΔHCO 3 - ↓ was also needed to be calculated, to determine whether there was normal AG metabolic acidosis or metabolic alkalosis. In the clinical practice, PaCO 2 (as the abscissa) and HCO 3 - (as the ordinate) were used to establish a rectangular coordinate system, through origin (0, 0) and coordinate point (40, 24) could be a straight line, and all points on the straight line pH were equal to 7.40. The acid-base balance coordinate graph could be divided into seven areas by three straight lines [namely pH = 7.40 isoline, PaCO 2 = 40 mmHg (1 mmHg = 0.133 kPa) line and HCO 3 - = 24 mmol/L line]: main respiratory alkalosis area, main metabolic alkalosis area, respiratory + metabolic alkalosis area, main respiratory acidosis area, main metabolic acidosis area, respiratory + metabolic acidosis area and normal area. It was easier to determine the type of acid-base balance disorders by identifying the location of the (PaCO 2 , HCO 3 - ) or (PaCO 2 , potential HCO 3 - ) point on the acid-base balance coordinate graph. "Four parameters-four steps" method is systematic and comprehensive. At the same time, by using the acid-base balance coordinate graph, it is simpler to estimate the types of acid-base balance disorders. It is worthy of popularizing and generalizing.

Modeling screening, prevention, and delaying of Alzheimer's disease: an early-stage decision analytic model

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background Alzheimer's Disease (AD) affects a growing proportion of the population each year. Novel therapies on the horizon may slow the progress of AD symptoms and avoid cases altogether. Initiating treatment for the underlying pathology of AD would ideally be based on biomarker screening tools identifying pre-symptomatic individuals. Early-stage modeling provides estimates of potential outcomes and informs policy development. Methods A time-to-event (TTE) simulation provided estimates of screening asymptomatic patients in the general population age ≥55 and treatment impact on the number of patients reaching AD. Patients were followed from AD screen until all-cause death. Baseline sensitivity and specificity were 0.87 and 0.78, with treatment on positive screen. Treatment slowed progression by 50%. Events were scheduled using literature-based age-dependent incidences of AD and death. Results The base case results indicated increased AD free years (AD-FYs) through delays in onset and a reduction of 20 AD cases per 1000 screened individuals. Patients completely avoiding AD accounted for 61% of the incremental AD-FYs gained. Total years of treatment per 1000 screened patients was 2,611. The number-needed-to-screen was 51 and the number-needed-to-treat was 12 to avoid one case of AD. One-way sensitivity analysis indicated that duration of screening sensitivity and rescreen interval impact AD-FYs the most. A two-way sensitivity analysis found that for a test with an extended duration of sensitivity (15 years) the number of AD cases avoided was 6,000-7,000 cases for a test with higher sensitivity and specificity (0.90,0.90). Conclusions This study yielded valuable parameter range estimates at an early stage in the study of screening for AD. Analysis identified duration of screening sensitivity as a key variable that may be unavailable from clinical trials. PMID:20433705

Modeling screening, prevention, and delaying of Alzheimer's disease: an early-stage decision analytic model.

PubMed

Furiak, Nicolas M; Klein, Robert W; Kahle-Wrobleski, Kristin; Siemers, Eric R; Sarpong, Eric; Klein, Timothy M

2010-04-30

Alzheimer's Disease (AD) affects a growing proportion of the population each year. Novel therapies on the horizon may slow the progress of AD symptoms and avoid cases altogether. Initiating treatment for the underlying pathology of AD would ideally be based on biomarker screening tools identifying pre-symptomatic individuals. Early-stage modeling provides estimates of potential outcomes and informs policy development. A time-to-event (TTE) simulation provided estimates of screening asymptomatic patients in the general population age > or =55 and treatment impact on the number of patients reaching AD. Patients were followed from AD screen until all-cause death. Baseline sensitivity and specificity were 0.87 and 0.78, with treatment on positive screen. Treatment slowed progression by 50%. Events were scheduled using literature-based age-dependent incidences of AD and death. The base case results indicated increased AD free years (AD-FYs) through delays in onset and a reduction of 20 AD cases per 1000 screened individuals. Patients completely avoiding AD accounted for 61% of the incremental AD-FYs gained. Total years of treatment per 1000 screened patients was 2,611. The number-needed-to-screen was 51 and the number-needed-to-treat was 12 to avoid one case of AD. One-way sensitivity analysis indicated that duration of screening sensitivity and rescreen interval impact AD-FYs the most. A two-way sensitivity analysis found that for a test with an extended duration of sensitivity (15 years) the number of AD cases avoided was 6,000-7,000 cases for a test with higher sensitivity and specificity (0.90,0.90). This study yielded valuable parameter range estimates at an early stage in the study of screening for AD. Analysis identified duration of screening sensitivity as a key variable that may be unavailable from clinical trials.

Case-based synthesis in automatic advertising creation system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhuang, Yueting; Pan, Yunhe

1995-08-01

Advertising (ads) is an important design area. Though many interactive ad-design softwares have come into commercial use, none of them ever support the intelligent work -- automatic ad creation. The potential for this is enormous. This paper gives a description of our current work in research of an automatic advertising creation system (AACS). After careful analysis of the mental behavior of a human ad designer, we conclude that case-based approach is appropriate to its intelligent modeling. A model for AACS is given in the paper. A case in ads is described as two parts: the creation process and the configuration of the ads picture, with detailed data structures given in the paper. Along with the case representation, we put forward an algorithm. Some issues such as similarity measure computing, and case adaptation have also been discussed.

Comparing Visual and Statistical Analysis in Single-Case Studies Using Published Studies

PubMed Central

Harrington, Magadalena; Velicer, Wayne F.

2015-01-01

Little is known about the extent to which interrupted time-series analysis (ITSA) can be applied to short, single-case study designs and whether those applications produce results consistent with visual analysis (VA). This paper examines the extent to which ITSA can be applied to single-case study designs and compares the results based on two methods: ITSA and VA, using papers published in the Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis in 2010. The study was made possible by the development of software called UnGraph® which facilitates the recovery of raw data from the graphs. ITSA was successfully applied to 94% of the examined graphs with the number of observations ranging from 8 to 136. Moderate to high lag 1 autocorrelations (> .50) were found for 46% of the data series. Effect sizes similar to group-level Cohen’s d were identified based on the tertile distribution. Effects ranging from 0.00 to 0.99 were classified as small, those ranging from 1.00 to 2.49 as medium, and large effect sizes were defined as 2.50 or greater. Comparison of the conclusions from VA and ITSA had a low level of agreement (Kappa = .14, accounting for the agreement expected by chance). The results demonstrate that ITSA can be broadly implemented in applied behavior analysis research. These two methods should be viewed as complimentary and used concurrently. PMID:26609876

The impact of chimerism in DNA-based forensic sex determination analysis.

PubMed

George, Renjith; Donald, Preethy Mary; Nagraj, Sumanth Kumbargere; Idiculla, Jose Joy; Hj Ismail, Rashid

2013-01-01

Sex determination is the most important step in personal identification in forensic investigations. DNA-based sex determination analysis is comparatively more reliable than the other conventional methods of sex determination analysis. Advanced technology like real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) offers accurate and reproducible results and is at the level of legal acceptance. But still there are situations like chimerism where an individual possess both male and female specific factors together in their body. Sex determination analysis in such cases can give erroneous results. This paper discusses the phenomenon of chimerism and its impact on sex determination analysis in forensic investigations.

Antiretroviral therapy outcomes among HIV infected clients in Gweru City, Zimbabwe 2006 - 2011: a cohort analysis.

PubMed

Shambira, Gerald; Gombe, Notion Tafara; Hall, Casey Daniel; Park, Meeyoung Mattie; Frimpong, Joseph Asamoah

2017-01-01

The government of Zimbabwe began providing antiretroviral therapy (ART) to People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV) in public institutions in 2004. In Midlands province two clinics constituted the most active HIV care service points, with patients being followed up through a comprehensive patient monitoring and tracking system which captured specific patient variables and outcomes over time. The data from 2006 to 2011 were subjected to analysis to answer specific research questions and this case study is based on that analysis. The goal of this case study is to build participants' capacity to undertake secondary data analysis and interpretation using a dataset for HIV antiretroviral therapy in Zimbabwe and to draw conclusions which inform recommendations. Case studies in applied epidemiology allow students to practice applying epidemiologic skills in the classroom to address real-world public health problems. Case studies as a vital component of an applied epidemiology curriculum are instrumental in reinforcing principles and skills covered in lectures or in background reading. The target audience includes Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Programs (FELTPs), university students, district health executives, and health information officers.

Direct identification of non-polio enteroviruses in residual paralysis cases by analysis of VP1 sequences.

PubMed

Rahimi, Pooneh; Tabatabaie, H; Gouya, Mohammad M; Mahmudi, M; Musavi, T; Rad, K Samimi; Azad, T Mokhtari; Nategh, R

2009-06-01

The 66 serotypes of human enteroviruses (EVs) are classified into four species A-D, based on phylogenetic relationships in multiple genome regions. Partial VP(1) amplification and sequence analysis are reliable methods for identifying non-polio enterovirus serotypes, especially in negative cell culture specimens from patients with residual paralysis. In Iran during the years 2000-2002, there were 29 residual paralysis cases with negative cell (RD, HEp(2) and L(20)B) culture results. The genomic RNA was extracted from stool specimens from cases of residual paralysis and detected by amplification of the 5'-nontranslated region using RT-PCR with Pan-EV primers. Partial VP(1) amplification by semi-nested RT-PCR (snRT-PCR) and sequence analysis were done. Specimens from the 29 culture-negative cases contained echoviruses of six different serotypes. The global eradication of wild polioviruses is near and study of non-polio enteroviruses, which can cause poliomyelitis, is increasingly important to understand their pathogenesis. The VP(1) sequences, derived from the snRT-PCR products, allowed rapid molecular analysis of these non-polio strains.

Trajectory-Based Loads for the Ares I-X Test Flight Vehicle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vause, Roland F.; Starr, Brett R.

2011-01-01

In trajectory-based loads, the structural engineer treats each point on the trajectory as a load case. Distributed aero, inertial, and propulsion forces are developed for the structural model which are equivalent to the integrated values of the trajectory model. Free-body diagrams are then used to solve for the internal forces, or loads, that keep the applied aero, inertial, and propulsion forces in dynamic equilibrium. There are several advantages to using trajectory-based loads. First, consistency is maintained between the integrated equilibrium equations of the trajectory analysis and the distributed equilibrium equations of the structural analysis. Second, the structural loads equations are tied to the uncertainty model for the trajectory systems analysis model. Atmosphere, aero, propulsion, mass property, and controls uncertainty models all feed into the dispersions that are generated for the trajectory systems analysis model. Changes in any of these input models will affect structural loads response. The trajectory systems model manages these inputs as well as the output from the structural model over thousands of dispersed cases. Large structural models with hundreds of thousands of degrees of freedom would execute too slowly to be an efficient part of several thousand system analyses. Trajectory-based loads provide a means for the structures discipline to be included in the integrated systems analysis. Successful applications of trajectory-based loads methods for the Ares I-X vehicle are covered in this paper. Preliminary design loads were based on 2000 trajectories using Monte Carlo dispersions. Range safety loads were tied to 8423 malfunction turn trajectories. In addition, active control system loads were based on 2000 preflight trajectories using Monte Carlo dispersions.

[Incidence and Costs of 1:1 Care in Psychiatric Hospitals in Germany - A Descriptive Analysis Based on the VIPP Project Data Set].

PubMed

Nienaber, André; Schulz, Michael; Noelle, Rüdiger; Wiegand, Hauke Felix; Wolff-Menzler, Claus; Häfner, Sibylle; Seemüller, Florian; Godemann, Frank; Löhr, Michael

2016-05-01

1:1 care is applied for patients requiring close psychiatric monitoring and care like patients with acute suicidality. The article describes the frequency of 1:1 care across different diagnoses and age groups in German psychiatric hospitals. The analysis was based on the VIPP Project from the years 2011 and 2012. A total of 47 hospitals with more than 120,000 cases were included. Object of the analysis was the OPS code 9-640.0 1:1 care. The evaluation was performed on case level. Data of 47 hospitals were included. Of the 121,454 cases evaluated in 2011 3.8 % documented a 1:1 care within the meaning of OPS 9-640.0 additional code. Of the 66 245 male cases a 1:1 care was documented in 3.5 % and the 55 207 female cases was 4.1 %. Compared to 2011, the proportion of 1:1 care in 2012 rose to 4.8 %. The results show that 1:1 care is frequently applied in German psychiatric hospitals. The Data of the VIPP project have proven to be a useful tool to gain information on the frequency of cost-intensive interventions in German psychiatric hospitals. Further analyses should create the possibility of evaluation at the level of the individual codes. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Seventeen {alpha}-hydroxylase deficiency with one base pair deletion of the cytochrome P450c17 (CYP17) gene

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

Oshiro, Chikara; Takasu, Nobuyuki; Wakugami, Tamio

1995-08-01

Mutation of the cytochrome P450c17 (CYP17) gene causes 17{alpha}-hydroxylase deficiency (170HD). Recently, several researchers have elucidated the molecular basis of 170HD by gene analysis. We experienced a case of 170HD and intended to reveal the abnormality of the CYP17 gene in this Japanese female with 170HD. Leukocytes were obtained from the patient, her mother and sister, and normal control subjects. We amplified the CYP17 gene using polymerase chain reaction and performed the sequence analysis using the dideoxy terminator method and restriction enzyme analysis. We found that the patient had one base-pair deletion at the position of amino acid 438. Anmore » indentical result was obtained with restriction enzyme analysis. This G deletion altered the reading frame and resulted in a premature stop codon at position 443; the ligand of heme iron (Cys: cystine 442) was absent. This small mutation may account for the patient`s clinical manifestations of 170HD. This is the first case of 170HD with only one base pair deletion of the CYP17 gene. 18 refs., 3 figs.« less

Risk analysis based on hazards interactions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rossi, Lauro; Rudari, Roberto; Trasforini, Eva; De Angeli, Silvia; Becker, Joost

2017-04-01

Despite an increasing need for open, transparent, and credible multi-hazard risk assessment methods, models, and tools, the availability of comprehensive risk information needed to inform disaster risk reduction is limited, and the level of interaction across hazards is not systematically analysed. Risk assessment methodologies for different hazards often produce risk metrics that are not comparable. Hazard interactions (consecutive occurrence two or more different events) are generally neglected, resulting in strongly underestimated risk assessment in the most exposed areas. This study presents cases of interaction between different hazards, showing how subsidence can affect coastal and river flood risk (Jakarta and Bandung, Indonesia) or how flood risk is modified after a seismic event (Italy). The analysis of well documented real study cases, based on a combination between Earth Observation and in-situ data, would serve as basis the formalisation of a multi-hazard methodology, identifying gaps and research frontiers. Multi-hazard risk analysis is performed through the RASOR platform (Rapid Analysis and Spatialisation Of Risk). A scenario-driven query system allow users to simulate future scenarios based on existing and assumed conditions, to compare with historical scenarios, and to model multi-hazard risk both before and during an event (www.rasor.eu).

A new framework for comprehensive, robust, and efficient global sensitivity analysis: 1. Theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Razavi, Saman; Gupta, Hoshin V.

2016-01-01

Computer simulation models are continually growing in complexity with increasingly more factors to be identified. Sensitivity Analysis (SA) provides an essential means for understanding the role and importance of these factors in producing model responses. However, conventional approaches to SA suffer from (1) an ambiguous characterization of sensitivity, and (2) poor computational efficiency, particularly as the problem dimension grows. Here, we present a new and general sensitivity analysis framework (called VARS), based on an analogy to "variogram analysis," that provides an intuitive and comprehensive characterization of sensitivity across the full spectrum of scales in the factor space. We prove, theoretically, that Morris (derivative-based) and Sobol (variance-based) methods and their extensions are special cases of VARS, and that their SA indices can be computed as by-products of the VARS framework. Synthetic functions that resemble actual model response surfaces are used to illustrate the concepts, and show VARS to be as much as two orders of magnitude more computationally efficient than the state-of-the-art Sobol approach. In a companion paper, we propose a practical implementation strategy, and demonstrate the effectiveness, efficiency, and reliability (robustness) of the VARS framework on real-data case studies.

Triacylglycerol stereospecific analysis and linear discriminant analysis for milk speciation.

PubMed

Blasi, Francesca; Lombardi, Germana; Damiani, Pietro; Simonetti, Maria Stella; Giua, Laura; Cossignani, Lina

2013-05-01

Product authenticity is an important topic in dairy sector. Dairy products sold for public consumption must be accurately labelled in accordance with the contained milk species. Linear discriminant analysis (LDA), a common chemometric procedure, has been applied to fatty acid% composition to classify pure milk samples (cow, ewe, buffalo, donkey, goat). All original grouped cases were correctly classified, while 90% of cross-validated grouped cases were correctly classified. Another objective of this research was the characterisation of cow-ewe milk mixtures in order to reveal a common fraud in dairy field, that is the addition of cow to ewe milk. Stereospecific analysis of triacylglycerols (TAG), a method based on chemical-enzymatic procedures coupled with chromatographic techniques, has been carried out to detect fraudulent milk additions, in particular 1, 3, 5% cow milk added to ewe milk. When only TAG composition data were used for the elaboration, 75% of original grouped cases were correctly classified, while totally correct classified samples were obtained when both total and intrapositional TAG data were used. Also the results of cross validation were better when TAG stereospecific analysis data were considered as LDA variables. In particular, 100% of cross-validated grouped cases were obtained when 5% cow milk mixtures were considered.

Dose-Dependent Associations between Wine Drinking and Breast Cancer Risk - Meta-Analysis Findings.

PubMed

Chen, Jia-Yan; Zhu, Hong-Cheng; Guo, Qing; Shu, Zheng; Bao, Xu-Hui; Sun, Feng; Qin, Qin; Yang, Xi; Zhang, Chi; Cheng, Hong-Yan; Sun, Xin-Chen

2016-01-01

To investigate any potential association between wine and breast cancer risk. We quantitatively assessed associations by conducting a meta-analysis based on evidence from observational studies. In May 2014, we performed electronic searches in PubMed, EmBase and the Cochrane Library to identify studies examining the effect of wine drinking on breast cancer incidence. The relative risk (RR) or odds ratio (OR) were used to measure any such association. The analysis was further stratified by confounding factors that could influence the results. A total of twenty-six studies (eight case-control and eighteen cohort studies) involving 21,149 cases were included in our meta-analysis. Our study demonstrated that wine drinking was associated with breast cancer risk. A 36% increase in breast cancer risk was observed across overall studies based on the highest versus lowest model, with a combined RR of 1.0059 (95%CI 0.97-1.05) in dose-response analysis. However, 5 g/d ethanol from wine seemed to have protective value from our non-linear model. Our findings indicate that wine drinking is associated with breast cancer risk in a dose-dependent manner. High consumption of wine contributes to breast cancer risk with protection exerted by low doses. Further investigations are needed for clarification.

Advanced Amine Solvent Formulations and Process Integration for Near-Term CO2 Capture Success

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

Fisher, Kevin S.; Searcy, Katherine; Rochelle, Gary T.

2007-06-28

This Phase I SBIR project investigated the economic and technical feasibility of advanced amine scrubbing systems for post-combustion CO2 capture at coal-fired power plants. Numerous combinations of advanced solvent formulations and process configurations were screened for energy requirements, and three cases were selected for detailed analysis: a monoethanolamine (MEA) base case and two “advanced” cases: an MEA/Piperazine (PZ) case, and a methyldiethanolamine (MDEA) / PZ case. The MEA/PZ and MDEA/PZ cases employed an advanced “double matrix” stripper configuration. The basis for calculations was a model plant with a gross capacity of 500 MWe. Results indicated that CO2 capture increased themore » base cost of electricity from 5 cents/kWh to 10.7 c/kWh for the MEA base case, 10.1 c/kWh for the MEA / PZ double matrix, and 9.7 c/kWh for the MDEA / PZ double matrix. The corresponding cost per metric tonne CO2 avoided was 67.20 $/tonne CO2, 60.19 $/tonne CO2, and 55.05 $/tonne CO2, respectively. Derated capacities, including base plant auxiliary load of 29 MWe, were 339 MWe for the base case, 356 MWe for the MEA/PZ double matrix, and 378 MWe for the MDEA / PZ double matrix. When compared to the base case, systems employing advanced solvent formulations and process configurations were estimated to reduce reboiler steam requirements by 20 to 44%, to reduce derating due to CO2 capture by 13 to 30%, and to reduce the cost of CO2 avoided by 10 to 18%. These results demonstrate the potential for significant improvements in the overall economics of CO2 capture via advanced solvent formulations and process configurations.« less

Adjoint Sensitivity Analysis of Radiative Transfer Equation: Temperature and Gas Mixing Ratio Weighting Functions for Remote Sensing of Scattering Atmospheres in Thermal IR

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ustinov, E.

1999-01-01

Sensitivity analysis based on using of the adjoint equation of radiative transfer is applied to the case of atmospheric remote sensing in the thermal spectral region with non-negligeable atmospheric scattering.

How Multiple Interventions Influenced Employee Turnover: A Case Study.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hatcher, Timothy

1999-01-01

A 3-year study of 46 textile industry workers identified causes of employee turnover (supervision, training, organizational communication) using performance analysis. A study of multiple interventions based on the analysis resulted in changes in orientation procedures, organizational leadership, and climate, reducing turnover by 24%. (SK)

Case II: Conflict recognition--the case of the misdirected faculty.

PubMed

Hoelscher, Diane C; Comer, Robert W

2002-04-01

Early recognition is fundamental to managing conflict. Successful leaders rely upon their ability to recognize conflict before it escalates into crisis. This article reviews the signs and sources of conflict along with related management theories. Conflict management includes understanding the sources and types of conflict as well as the impact potential; in the case presented, the leaders were unaware of conflict. Dr. Forester, the faculty member "in the middle," was in a precarious position. Her performance evaluation reflected unacceptable accomplishments. However, her self-assessment, based on the hiring agreement, was successful. Her requests for guidance and clarification were unproductive. What does she do now? The management theories that apply to the case of "the misdirected faculty" include analysis and discussion of communication, feedback, and expectancy theory. Action alternatives are presented to explore some of the options available to stimulate discussion and to provide readers with an eclectic approach to applying a case analysis.

Tailored multivariate analysis for modulated enhanced diffraction

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

Caliandro, Rocco; Guccione, Pietro; Nico, Giovanni

2015-10-21

Modulated enhanced diffraction (MED) is a technique allowing the dynamic structural characterization of crystalline materials subjected to an external stimulus, which is particularly suited forin situandoperandostructural investigations at synchrotron sources. Contributions from the (active) part of the crystal system that varies synchronously with the stimulus can be extracted by an offline analysis, which can only be applied in the case of periodic stimuli and linear system responses. In this paper a new decomposition approach based on multivariate analysis is proposed. The standard principal component analysis (PCA) is adapted to treat MED data: specific figures of merit based on their scoresmore » and loadings are found, and the directions of the principal components obtained by PCA are modified to maximize such figures of merit. As a result, a general method to decompose MED data, called optimum constrained components rotation (OCCR), is developed, which produces very precise results on simulated data, even in the case of nonperiodic stimuli and/or nonlinear responses. The multivariate analysis approach is able to supply in one shot both the diffraction pattern related to the active atoms (through the OCCR loadings) and the time dependence of the system response (through the OCCR scores). When applied to real data, OCCR was able to supply only the latter information, as the former was hindered by changes in abundances of different crystal phases, which occurred besides structural variations in the specific case considered. To develop a decomposition procedure able to cope with this combined effect represents the next challenge in MED analysis.« less

Operations analysis for lunar surface construction: Results of two office of exploration case studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bell, Lisa Y.; Boles, Walter; Smith, Alvin

1991-08-01

In an environment of intense competition for Federal funding, the U.S. space research community is responsible for developing a feasible, cost-effective approach to establishing a surface base on the moon to fulfill long-term Government objectives. This report presents the results of a construction operations analysis of two lunar scenarios provided by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Activities necessary to install the lunar base surface elements are defined and scheduled, based on the productivities and availability of the base resources allocated to the projects depicted in each scenario. The only construction project in which the required project milestones were not completed within the nominal timeframe was the initial startup phase of NASA's FY89 Lunar Evolution Case Study (LECS), primarily because this scenario did not include any Earth-based telerobotic site preparation before the arrival of the first crew. The other scenario analyzed. Reference Mission A from NASA's 90-Day Study of the Human Exploration of the Moon and Mars, did use telerobotic site preparation before the manned phase of the base construction. Details of the analysis for LECS are provided, including spreadsheets indicating quantities of work and Gantt charts depicting the general schedule for the work. This level of detail is not presented for the scenario based on the 90-Day Study because many of the projects include the same (or similar) surface elements and facilities.

An Analysis of Didactic and Inquiry-Based Teaching and Learning on Student Achievement in Urban Elementary Schools

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Varnado, Jacqueline

2011-01-01

Limited research has been conducted on inquiry based teaching strategies on language arts and mathematics instruction. The research problem at the study site was the lack of research-based findings on the effectiveness of traditional and inquiry based teaching strategies on language arts and mathematics instruction. The purpose of this case study…

Cost-effectiveness of WHO-Recommended Algorithms for TB Case Finding at Ethiopian HIV Clinics.

PubMed

Adelman, Max W; McFarland, Deborah A; Tsegaye, Mulugeta; Aseffa, Abraham; Kempker, Russell R; Blumberg, Henry M

2018-01-01

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends active tuberculosis (TB) case finding and a rapid molecular diagnostic test (Xpert MTB/RIF) to detect TB among people living with HIV (PLHIV) in high-burden settings. Information on the cost-effectiveness of these recommended strategies is crucial for their implementation. We conducted a model-based cost-effectiveness analysis comparing 2 algorithms for TB screening and diagnosis at Ethiopian HIV clinics: (1) WHO-recommended symptom screen combined with Xpert for PLHIV with a positive symptom screen and (2) current recommended practice algorithm (CRPA; based on symptom screening, smear microscopy, and clinical TB diagnosis). Our primary outcome was US$ per disability-adjusted life-year (DALY) averted. Secondary outcomes were additional true-positive diagnoses, and false-negative and false-positive diagnoses averted. Compared with CRPA, combining a WHO-recommended symptom screen with Xpert was highly cost-effective (incremental cost of $5 per DALY averted). Among a cohort of 15 000 PLHIV with a TB prevalence of 6% (900 TB cases), this algorithm detected 8 more true-positive cases than CRPA, and averted 2045 false-positive and 8 false-negative diagnoses compared with CRPA. The WHO-recommended algorithm was marginally costlier ($240 000) than CRPA ($239 000). In sensitivity analysis, the symptom screen/Xpert algorithm was dominated at low Xpert sensitivity (66%). In this model-based analysis, combining a WHO-recommended symptom screen with Xpert for TB diagnosis among PLHIV was highly cost-effective ($5 per DALY averted) and more sensitive than CRPA in a high-burden, resource-limited setting.

Experiment-Based Teaching in Advanced Control Engineering

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Precup, R.-E.; Preitl, S.; Radac, M.-B.; Petriu, E. M.; Dragos, C.-A.; Tar, J. K.

2011-01-01

This paper discusses an experiment-based approach to teaching an advanced control engineering syllabus involving controlled plant analysis and modeling, control structures and algorithms, real-time laboratory experiments, and their assessment. These experiments are structured around the representative case of the longitudinal slip control of an…

Risk based inspection for atmospheric storage tank

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nugroho, Agus; Haryadi, Gunawan Dwi; Ismail, Rifky; Kim, Seon Jin

2016-04-01

Corrosion is an attack that occurs on a metallic material as a result of environment's reaction.Thus, it causes atmospheric storage tank's leakage, material loss, environmental pollution, equipment failure and affects the age of process equipment then finally financial damage. Corrosion risk measurement becomesa vital part of Asset Management at the plant for operating any aging asset.This paper provides six case studies dealing with high speed diesel atmospheric storage tank parts at a power plant. A summary of the basic principles and procedures of corrosion risk analysis and RBI applicable to the Process Industries were discussed prior to the study. Semi quantitative method based onAPI 58I Base-Resource Document was employed. The risk associated with corrosion on the equipment in terms of its likelihood and its consequences were discussed. The corrosion risk analysis outcome used to formulate Risk Based Inspection (RBI) method that should be a part of the atmospheric storage tank operation at the plant. RBI gives more concern to inspection resources which are mostly on `High Risk' and `Medium Risk' criteria and less on `Low Risk' shell. Risk categories of the evaluated equipment were illustrated through case study analysis outcome.

Cost-effectiveness analysis of treatments for metastatic pancreatic cancer based on PRODIGE and MPACT trials.

PubMed

Zhou, Jing; Zhao, Rongce; Wen, Feng; Zhang, Pengfei; Wu, Yifan; Tang, Ruilei; Chen, Hongdou; Zhang, Jian; Li, Qiu

2016-06-02

Fluorouracil, leucovorin, irinotecan, oxaliplatin (FOLFIRINOX) and gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel (GEM-N) have shown a significant survival benefit for the treatment of metastatic pancreatic cancer. The objective of this study was to assess the cost-effectiveness of FOLFIRINOX versus GEM-N for treating metastatic pancreatic cancer based on the PRODIGE and MPACT trials. A decision model was performed to compare FOLFIRINOX with GEM-N. Primary base case data were identified from PRODIGE and MPACT trials. Costs were estimated and incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was calculated at West China Hospital, Sichuan University, China. Survival benefits were reported in quality-adjusted life-years (QALY). Finally, sensitive analysis was performed by varying potentially modifiable parameters in the model. The base-case analysis showed that FOLFIRINOX cost $37,203.75 and yielded a survival of 0.67 QALY, and GEM-N cost $32,080.59 and yielded a survival of 0.51 QALY in the entire treatment. Thus, the ICER of FOLFIRINOX versus GEM-N was $32,019.75 per QALY gained. The GEM-N regimen was more cost-effective compared with the FOLFIRINOX regimen for the treatment of metastatic pancreatic cancer from a Chinese perspective.

Defining the learning curve in laparoscopic paraesophageal hernia repair: a CUSUM analysis.

PubMed

Okrainec, Allan; Ferri, Lorenzo E; Feldman, Liane S; Fried, Gerald M

2011-04-01

There are numerous reports in the literature documenting high recurrence rates after laparoscopic paraesophageal hernia repair. The purpose of this study was to determine the learning curve for this procedure using the Cumulative Summation (CUSUM) technique. Forty-six consecutive patients with paraesophageal hernia were evaluated prospectively after laparoscopic paraesophageal hernia repair. Upper GI series was performed 3 months postoperatively to look for recurrence. Patients were stratified based on the surgeon's early (first 20 cases) and late experience (>20 cases). The CUSUM method was then used to further analyze the learning curve. Nine patients (21%) had anatomic recurrence. There was a trend toward a higher recurrence rate during the first 20 cases, although this did not achieve statistical significance (33% vs. 13%, p = 0.10). However, using a CUSUM analysis to plot the learning curve, we found that the recurrence rate diminishes after 18 cases and reaches an acceptable rate after 26 cases. Surgeon experience is an important predictor of recurrence after laparoscopic paraesophageal hernia repair. CUSUM analysis revealed there is a significant learning curve to become proficient at this procedure, with approximately 20 cases required before a consistent decrease in hernia recurrence rate is observed.

Single-molecule detection: applications to ultrasensitive biochemical analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Castro, Alonso; Shera, E. Brooks

1995-06-01

Recent developments in laser-based detection of fluorescent molecules have made possible the implementation of very sensitive techniques for biochemical analysis. We present and discuss our experiments on the applications of our recently developed technique of single-molecule detection to the analysis of molecules of biological interest. These newly developed methods are capable of detecting and identifying biomolecules at the single-molecule level of sensitivity. In one case, identification is based on measuring fluorescence brightness from single molecules. In another, molecules are classified by determining their electrophoretic velocities.

Analysis of household refrigerators for different testing standards

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

Bansal, P.K.; McGill, I.

This study highlights the salient differences among various testing standards for household refrigerator-freezers and proposes a methodology for predicting the performance of a single evaporator-based vapor-compression refrigeration system (either refrigerator or freezer) from one test standard (where the test data are available-the reference case) to another (the alternative case). The standards studied during this investigation include the Australian-New Zealand Standard (ANZS), the International Standard (ISO), the American National Standard (ANSI), the Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS), and the Chinese National Standard (CNS). A simple analysis in conjunction with the BICYCLE model (Bansal and Rice 1993) is used to calculate the energymore » consumption of two refrigerator cabinets from the reference case to the alternative cases. The proposed analysis includes the effect of door openings (as required by the JIS) as well as defrost heaters. The analytical results are found to agree reasonably well with the experimental observations for translating energy consumption information from one standard to another.« less

Are Victorian elective surgery cases still converting from overnight to same day cases?

PubMed

Hanning, Brian W T

2005-05-01

The conversion rate on a diagnosis related group (DRG)-standardised basis of Victorian private overnight (ON) elective surgery cases to same day (SD) cases declined from 4.7% per annum over 1996-97 to 1998-99 to 2.5% per annum over 1998-99 to 2002-03. Similar analysis within the Victorian public sector shows a decline from 3.8% per annum over 1996-97 to 1998-99 to 1.9% over 1998-99 to 2002-03. Comparison on a DRG-standardised basis shows while the public sector continued to show a higher incidence of elective surgery SD cases than the private sector in 2002-03 (by 1.6%). The difference has declined since 1998-99 when it was 2.4%. DRG-based analysis suggests the conversion rate in both sectors and the difference in SD surgery cases between the two sectors will continue to decline. Future savings in recurrent and capital cost due to ON surgery cases becoming SD cases are likely to be much lower than savings in recent years.

Evaluation of Counter-Based Dynamic Load Balancing Schemes for Massive Contingency Analysis on Over 10,000 Cores

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

Chen, Yousu; Huang, Zhenyu; Rice, Mark J.

Contingency analysis studies are necessary to assess the impact of possible power system component failures. The results of the contingency analysis are used to ensure the grid reliability, and in power market operation for the feasibility test of market solutions. Currently, these studies are performed in real time based on the current operating conditions of the grid with a set of pre-selected contingency list, which might result in overlooking some critical contingencies caused by variable system status. To have a complete picture of a power grid, more contingencies need to be studied to improve grid reliability. High-performance computing techniques holdmore » the promise of being able to perform the analysis for more contingency cases within a much shorter time frame. This paper evaluates the performance of counter-based dynamic load balancing schemes for a massive contingency analysis program on 10,000+ cores. One million N-2 contingency analysis cases with a Western Electricity Coordinating Council power grid model have been used to demonstrate the performance. The speedup of 3964 with 4096 cores and 7877 with 10240 cores are obtained. This paper reports the performance of the load balancing scheme with a single counter and two counters, describes disk I/O issues, and discusses other potential techniques for further improving the performance.« less

Case Designs for Ill-Structured Problems: Analysis and Implications for Practice

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dabbagh, Nada; Blijd, Cecily Williams

2009-01-01

This study is a third in a series of studies that examined students' information seeking and problem solving behaviors while interacting with one of two types of web-based representations of an ill-structured instructional design case: hierarchical (tree-like) and heterarchical (network-like). A Java program was used to track students' hypermedia…

Exploring the Dimensions of Brand Reputation in Higher Education--A Case Study of a Finnish Master's Degree Programme

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Suomi, Kati

2014-01-01

This exploratory study examines the dimensions that are relevant to brand reputation, particularly in the context of master's degree programmes. The data analysis is based on Vidaver-Cohen's "Business school quality dimensions and reputational attributes". The qualitative data for the case study comprise a student questionnaire and…

Multiple Case Study on Cyberbullying's Impacts on Adolescent Technology Use

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Thompson, Kent W.

2013-01-01

This multiple case study focused on whether and how cyberbullying had an impact on students' use of technology. Analysis of the lived experiences of the participants in this study added depth to the quantitative research previously conducted by others in this area. The conceptual framework was based on social learning theory, which suggested that…

Management Science in Higher Education Institutions: Case Studies from Greece

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Saiti, Anna

2010-01-01

Regardless of the source of funding, university quality is based on knowledge, teaching, and research, and hence cannot be run like private enterprises as they are expert organisations that provide solely a public service. The purpose of this paper is to investigate, through the analysis of case studies, whether or not management theory,…

Design Principles for the Blend in Blended Learning: A Collective Case Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lai, Ming; Lam, Kwok Man; Lim, Cher Ping

2016-01-01

This paper reports on a collective case study of three blended courses taught by different instructors in a higher education institution, with the purpose of identifying the different types of blend and how the blend supports student learning. Based on the instructors' and students' interviews, and document analysis of course outlines, two major…

Critical Reflection by Teacher Candidates on Cases Based in their Experience: Teacher Education for Inclusive Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hutchinson, Nancy L.

2004-01-01

Recent changes in education, including inclusion of students with disabilities, promise to heighten the complexity of teaching. Preparing reflective teachers may help to deal with these increasing demands. This paper reports analysis of critical reflection and two other features in cases authored by teacher candidates and submitted in a course on…

Pursuing Excellence in Teacher Preparation: Evidence of Institutional Change from TNE Learning Network Universities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rogers Poliakoff, Anne; Dailey, Caitlin Rose; White, Robin

2011-01-01

The purpose of this report is to document evidence of institutional change in teacher preparation among universities participating in the Teachers for a New Era (TNE) Learning Network. The report is based upon a cross-case analysis of individual case studies of nine universities, conducted by Academy for Educational Development (AED) researchers.…

Meta-Analysis of Single-Case Design Research: Introduction to the Special Issue

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Burns, Matthew K.

2012-01-01

Single-case design (SCD) research focuses on finding powerful effects, but the influence of this methodology on the evidence-based practice (EBP) movement is questionable. Meta-analytic procedures may help facilitate the role of SCD research in the EBP movement, but meta-analyses of SCDs are controversial. The current article provides an…

Single-Case Analysis to Determine Reasons for Failure of Behavioral Treatment via Telehealth

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schieltz, Kelly M.; Romani, Patrick W.; Wacker, David P.; Suess, Alyssa N.; Huang, Pei; Berg, Wendy K.; Lindgren, Scott D.; Kopelman, Todd G.

2018-01-01

Functional communication training (FCT) is a widely used and effective function-based treatment for problem behavior. The purpose of this article is to present two cases in which FCT was unsuccessful in reducing the occurrence of problem behavior displayed by two young children with an autism spectrum disorder. Both children received the same…

Assessing the Value of Educational Competencies of Healthcare Leaders and Organizational Factors: A Case Study Analysis

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Munz, James A.

2017-01-01

This qualitative research study addressed the problem that the healthcare industry has no clear evidence of the academic competencies that influence the attainment of organizational success. The study was based on one case study at a Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME) accredited Masters of Health Administration…

The Arts: A Competitive Advantage for California.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

KPMG Peat Marwick, Washington, DC. Policy Economic Group.

This 1993 study attempts to define the size and scope of state-wide economic activity generated by the arts in California. The analysis is based on data from surveys of nonprofit arts organization and five case studies. The case studies, which provided context for the core research, include examinations of: (1) artists in Los Angeles County; (2)…

Neo-Democracy in Educational Policy-Making: A Critical Case Study of Neoliberal Reform in Massachusetts

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Piazza, Peter

2017-01-01

This paper explores changes to the educational policy-making arena through case study analysis of a Massachusetts law passed in 2012 that limits seniority-based job protections for public K-12 teachers. I use data from interviews with policy stakeholders, observations of public meetings, and policy artifacts to explore struggles over democratic…

Integrating Entrepreneurship Education across University-Wide Curricula: The Case of Two Public Universities in Tanzania

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kalimasi, Perpetua Joseph; Herman, Chaya

2016-01-01

This qualitative case study explores the integration of entrepreneurship education (EE) across the curricula in two public universities in Tanzania. Based on Shapero's model of the entrepreneurial event, the feasibility and desirability of EE in the selected universities are analysed. In-depth interviews and document analysis were used for data…

Clinical Practice as Natural Laboratory for Psychotherapy Research: A Guide to Case-Based Time-Series Analysis

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Borckardt, Jeffrey J.; Nash, Michael R.; Murphy, Martin D.; Moore, Mark; Shaw, Darlene; O'Neil, Patrick

2008-01-01

Both researchers and practitioners need to know more about how laboratory treatment protocols translate to real-world practice settings and how clinical innovations can be systematically tested and communicated to a skeptical scientific community. The single-case time-series study is well suited to opening a productive discourse between practice…

[Cost-benefit analysis of the active screening of pulmonary tuberculosis in a recluse population entering prison].

PubMed

Martín, V; Domínguez, A; Alcaide, J

1997-01-01

In spanish prisons, tuberculosis is a serious problem of public health and health authorities don't take it seriously. To prove the efficiency of pulmonary tuberculosis case-finding on arrival at prison in order to get location resources in this activity. Cost-benefit analysis of a case-finding program compared with to wait for diagnostic to illness. The sensitivity of test was fixed in 80% and the specificity in 99.99%. The cost was based on market prices. Sensitivity analysis was done in every variables as well as tridimensional analysis in those one of more influence. The case-finding was efficient on prevalences of tuberculosis over 5 per mil. Its efficiency was hardly affected by discount social rates or the sensitivity of diagnostic tests. The prevalence of illness, the cost of diagnostic activities as well as the success of treatment and the specificity of diagnostic tests used had as influence on the efficiency model. The tridimensional analysis proved that the case-finding of pulmonary tuberculosis has efficiency on low prevalences (1 per thousand), provided the number of people cured is a 5% higher than the alternative one and the costs of case-finding less than 1,000 pesetas per subject. The case-finding pulmonary tuberculosis on arrival at prisons is of high efficiency. In a cost-opportunity situation (location of available resources, penitentiary and extrapenitentiary) the program is very efficacious taking into account the fact of higher prevalence of pulmonary tuberculosis in this people.

[Research and development of medical case database: a novel medical case information system integrating with biospecimen management].

PubMed

Pan, Shiyang; Mu, Yuan; Wang, Hong; Wang, Tong; Huang, Peijun; Ma, Jianfeng; Jiang, Li; Zhang, Jie; Gu, Bing; Yi, Lujiang

2010-04-01

To meet the needs of management of medical case information and biospecimen simultaneously, we developed a novel medical case information system integrating with biospecimen management. The database established by MS SQL Server 2000 covered, basic information, clinical diagnosis, imaging diagnosis, pathological diagnosis and clinical treatment of patient; physicochemical property, inventory management and laboratory analysis of biospecimen; users log and data maintenance. The client application developed by Visual C++ 6.0 was used to implement medical case and biospecimen management, which was based on Client/Server model. This system can perform input, browse, inquest, summary of case and related biospecimen information, and can automatically synthesize case-records based on the database. Management of not only a long-term follow-up on individual, but also of grouped cases organized according to the aim of research can be achieved by the system. This system can improve the efficiency and quality of clinical researches while biospecimens are used coordinately. It realizes synthesized and dynamic management of medical case and biospecimen, which may be considered as a new management platform.

Secondary School Students' Understanding of Science and Their Socioscientific Reasoning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karahan, Engin; Roehrig, Gillian

2017-08-01

Research in socioscientific issue (SSI)-based interventions is relatively new (Sadler in Journal of Research in Science Teaching 41:513-536, 2004; Zeidler et al. in Journal of Research in Science Teaching 46:74-101, 2009), and there is a need for understanding more about the effects of SSI-based learning environments (Sadler in Journal of Research in Science Teaching 41:513-536, 2004). Lee and Witz (International Journal of Science Education 31:931-960, 2009) highlighted the need for detailed case studies that would focus on how students respond to teachers' practices of teaching SSI. This study presents case studies that investigated the development of secondary school students' science understanding and their socioscientific reasoning within SSI-based learning environments. A multiple case study with embedded units of analysis was implemented for this research because of the contextual differences for each case. The findings of the study revealed that students' understanding of science, including scientific method, social and cultural influences on science, and scientific bias, was strongly influenced by their experiences in SSI-based learning environments. Furthermore, multidimensional SSI-based science classes resulted in students having multiple reasoning modes, such as ethical and economic reasoning, compared to data-driven SSI-based science classes. In addition to portraying how participants presented complexity, perspectives, inquiry, and skepticism as aspects of socioscientific reasoning (Sadler et al. in Research in Science Education 37:371-391, 2007), this study proposes the inclusion of three additional aspects for the socioscientific reasoning theoretical construct: (1) identification of social domains affecting the SSI, (2) using cost and benefit analysis for evaluation of claims, and (3) understanding that SSIs and scientific studies around them are context-bound.

[Comparative study of the population structure and population assignment of sockeye salmon Oncorhynchus nerka from West Kamchatka based on RAPD-PCR and microsatellite polymorphism].

PubMed

Zelenina, D A; Khrustaleva, A M; Volkov, A A

2006-05-01

Using two types of molecular markers, a comparative analysis of the population structure of sockeye salmon from West Kamchatka as well as population assignment of each individual fish were carried out. The values of a RAPD-PCR-based population assignment test (94-100%) were somewhat higher than those based on microsatellite data (74-84%). However, these results seem quite satisfactory because of high polymorphism of the microsatellite loci examined. The UPGMA dendrograms of genetic similarity of three largest spawning populations, constructed using each of the methods, were highly reliable, which was demonstrated by high bootstrap indices (100% in the case of RAPD-PCR; 84 and 100%, in the case of microsatellite analysis), though the resultant trees differed from one another. The different topology of the trees, in our view, is explained by the fact that the employed methods explored different parts of the genome; hence, the obtained results, albeit valid, may not correlate. Thus, to enhance reliability of the results, several methods of analysis should be used concurrently.

An Industrial Ecology Approach to Municipal Solid Waste ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

The organic fraction of municipal solid waste provides abundant opportunities for industrial ecology-based symbiotic use. Energy production, economics, and environmental aspects are analyzed for four alternatives based on different technologies: incineration with energy recovery, gasification, anaerobic digestion, and fermentation. In these cases electricity and ethanol are the products considered, but other products and attempts at symbiosis can be made. The four technologies are in various states of commercial development. To highlight their relative complexities some adjustable parameters which are important for the operability of each process are discussed. While these technologies need to be considered for specific locations and circumstances, generalized economic and environmental information suggests relative comparisons for newly conceptualized processes. The results of industrial ecology-based analysis suggest that anaerobic digestion may improve seven emission categories, while fermentation, gasification, and incineration successively improve fewer emissions. A conceptual level analysis indicates that gasification, anaerobic digestion, and fermentation alternatives lead to positive economic results. In each case the alternatives and their assumptions need further analysis for any particular community. Presents information useful for analyzing the sustainability of alternatives for the management of municipal solid waste.

Integration of system identification and finite element modelling of nonlinear vibrating structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cooper, Samson B.; DiMaio, Dario; Ewins, David J.

2018-03-01

The Finite Element Method (FEM), Experimental modal analysis (EMA) and other linear analysis techniques have been established as reliable tools for the dynamic analysis of engineering structures. They are often used to provide solutions to small and large structures and other variety of cases in structural dynamics, even those exhibiting a certain degree of nonlinearity. Unfortunately, when the nonlinear effects are substantial or the accuracy of the predicted response is of vital importance, a linear finite element model will generally prove to be unsatisfactory. As a result, the validated linear FE model requires further enhancement so that it can represent and predict the nonlinear behaviour exhibited by the structure. In this paper, a pragmatic approach to integrating test-based system identification and FE modelling of a nonlinear structure is presented. This integration is based on three different phases: the first phase involves the derivation of an Underlying Linear Model (ULM) of the structure, the second phase includes experiment-based nonlinear identification using measured time series and the third phase covers augmenting the linear FE model and experimental validation of the nonlinear FE model. The proposed case study is demonstrated on a twin cantilever beam assembly coupled with a flexible arch shaped beam. In this case, polynomial-type nonlinearities are identified and validated with force-controlled stepped-sine test data at several excitation levels.

AUDIOME: a tiered exome sequencing-based comprehensive gene panel for the diagnosis of heterogeneous nonsyndromic sensorineural hearing loss.

PubMed

Guan, Qiaoning; Balciuniene, Jorune; Cao, Kajia; Fan, Zhiqian; Biswas, Sawona; Wilkens, Alisha; Gallo, Daniel J; Bedoukian, Emma; Tarpinian, Jennifer; Jayaraman, Pushkala; Sarmady, Mahdi; Dulik, Matthew; Santani, Avni; Spinner, Nancy; Abou Tayoun, Ahmad N; Krantz, Ian D; Conlin, Laura K; Luo, Minjie

2018-03-29

PurposeHereditary hearing loss is highly heterogeneous. To keep up with rapidly emerging disease-causing genes, we developed the AUDIOME test for nonsyndromic hearing loss (NSHL) using an exome sequencing (ES) platform and targeted analysis for the curated genes.MethodsA tiered strategy was implemented for this test. Tier 1 includes combined Sanger and targeted deletion analyses of the two most common NSHL genes and two mitochondrial genes. Nondiagnostic tier 1 cases are subjected to ES and array followed by targeted analysis of the remaining AUDIOME genes.ResultsES resulted in good coverage of the selected genes with 98.24% of targeted bases at >15 ×. A fill-in strategy was developed for the poorly covered regions, which generally fell within GC-rich or highly homologous regions. Prospective testing of 33 patients with NSHL revealed a diagnosis in 11 (33%) and a possible diagnosis in 8 cases (24.2%). Among those, 10 individuals had variants in tier 1 genes. The ES data in the remaining nondiagnostic cases are readily available for further analysis.ConclusionThe tiered and ES-based test provides an efficient and cost-effective diagnostic strategy for NSHL, with the potential to reflex to full exome to identify causal changes outside of the AUDIOME test.Genetics in Medicine advance online publication, 29 March 2018; doi:10.1038/gim.2018.48.

Drivers of wetland conversion: a global meta-analysis.

PubMed

van Asselen, Sanneke; Verburg, Peter H; Vermaat, Jan E; Janse, Jan H

2013-01-01

Meta-analysis of case studies has become an important tool for synthesizing case study findings in land change. Meta-analyses of deforestation, urbanization, desertification and change in shifting cultivation systems have been published. This present study adds to this literature, with an analysis of the proximate causes and underlying forces of wetland conversion at a global scale using two complementary approaches of systematic review. Firstly, a meta-analysis of 105 case-study papers describing wetland conversion was performed, showing that different combinations of multiple-factor proximate causes, and underlying forces, drive wetland conversion. Agricultural development has been the main proximate cause of wetland conversion, and economic growth and population density are the most frequently identified underlying forces. Secondly, to add a more quantitative component to the study, a logistic meta-regression analysis was performed to estimate the likelihood of wetland conversion worldwide, using globally-consistent biophysical and socioeconomic location factor maps. Significant factors explaining wetland conversion, in order of importance, are market influence, total wetland area (lower conversion probability), mean annual temperature and cropland or built-up area. The regression analyses results support the outcomes of the meta-analysis of the processes of conversion mentioned in the individual case studies. In other meta-analyses of land change, similar factors (e.g., agricultural development, population growth, market/economic factors) are also identified as important causes of various types of land change (e.g., deforestation, desertification). Meta-analysis helps to identify commonalities across the various local case studies and identify which variables may lead to individual cases to behave differently. The meta-regression provides maps indicating the likelihood of wetland conversion worldwide based on the location factors that have determined historic conversions.

Drivers of Wetland Conversion: a Global Meta-Analysis

PubMed Central

van Asselen, Sanneke; Verburg, Peter H.; Vermaat, Jan E.; Janse, Jan H.

2013-01-01

Meta-analysis of case studies has become an important tool for synthesizing case study findings in land change. Meta-analyses of deforestation, urbanization, desertification and change in shifting cultivation systems have been published. This present study adds to this literature, with an analysis of the proximate causes and underlying forces of wetland conversion at a global scale using two complementary approaches of systematic review. Firstly, a meta-analysis of 105 case-study papers describing wetland conversion was performed, showing that different combinations of multiple-factor proximate causes, and underlying forces, drive wetland conversion. Agricultural development has been the main proximate cause of wetland conversion, and economic growth and population density are the most frequently identified underlying forces. Secondly, to add a more quantitative component to the study, a logistic meta-regression analysis was performed to estimate the likelihood of wetland conversion worldwide, using globally-consistent biophysical and socioeconomic location factor maps. Significant factors explaining wetland conversion, in order of importance, are market influence, total wetland area (lower conversion probability), mean annual temperature and cropland or built-up area. The regression analyses results support the outcomes of the meta-analysis of the processes of conversion mentioned in the individual case studies. In other meta-analyses of land change, similar factors (e.g., agricultural development, population growth, market/economic factors) are also identified as important causes of various types of land change (e.g., deforestation, desertification). Meta-analysis helps to identify commonalities across the various local case studies and identify which variables may lead to individual cases to behave differently. The meta-regression provides maps indicating the likelihood of wetland conversion worldwide based on the location factors that have determined historic conversions. PMID:24282580

Are obesity and body fat distribution associated with low back pain in women? A population-based study of 1128 Spanish twins.

PubMed

Dario, Amabile B; Ferreira, Manuela L; Refshauge, Kathryn; Sánchez-Romera, Juan F; Luque-Suarez, Alejandro; Hopper, John L; Ordoñana, Juan R; Ferreira, Paulo H

2016-04-01

To investigate the relationship between different measures of obesity and chronic low back pain (LBP) using a within-pair twin case-control design that adjusts for genetics and early shared environment. A cross-sectional association between lifetime prevalence of chronic LBP and different measures of obesity (body mass index-BMI; percent body fat; waist circumference; waist-hip ratio) was investigated in 1128 female twins in three stages: (i) total sample analysis; (ii) within-pair case-control analysis for monozygotic (MZ) and dizygotic (DZ) twins together; (iii) within-pair case-control analysis separated by DZ and MZ. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. BMI (OR 1.12; 95% CI 1.02-1.26) and percent body fat (OR 1.15; 95% CI 1.01-1.32) were weakly associated with lifetime prevalence of chronic LBP in the total sample analysis but were absent when shared environment and genetic factors were adjusted for using the within-pair case-control analysis. Greater waist-hip ratios were associated with smaller prevalence estimates of chronic LBP in the within-pair case-control analysis with both MZ and DZ twins (OR 0.67; 95% CI 0.47-0.94). However, this association did not remain after the full adjustment for genetic factors in the MZ within-pair case-control analysis. BMI, percent of fat mass and greater depositions of fat and mass around the hips are associated with increases in chronic LBP prevalence in women but these associations are small and appear to be confounded by the effects of genetics and early shared environment. Therefore, our results do not support a causal direct relationship between obesity and chronic LBP.

Data warehousing as a basis for web-based documentation of data mining and analysis.

PubMed

Karlsson, J; Eklund, P; Hallgren, C G; Sjödin, J G

1999-01-01

In this paper we present a case study for data warehousing intended to support data mining and analysis. We also describe a prototype for data retrieval. Further we discuss some technical issues related to a particular choice of a patient record environment.

Proxy case mix measures for nursing homes.

PubMed

Cyr, A B

1983-01-01

Nursing home case mix measures are needed for the same purposes that spurred the intensive development of case mix measures for hospitals: management and planning decisions, organizational performance research, and reimbursement policy analysis. This paper develops and validates a pair of complementary measures that are simple to compute, are easy to interpret, and use generally available data. They are not, however, definitive. A secondary purpose of this paper is thus to galvanize the development of data bases that will give rise to superior case mix measures for nursing homes.

Transient thermal and stress analysis of maxillary second premolar tooth using an exact three-dimensional model.

PubMed

Hashemipour, Maryam Alsadat; Mohammadpour, Ali; Nassab, Seiied Abdolreza Gandjalikhan

2010-01-01

In this paper, the temperature and stress distributions in an exact 3D-model of a restored maxillary second premolar tooth are obtained with finite element approach. The carious teeth need to restore with appropriate restorative materials. There are too many restorative materials which can be used instead of tooth structures; since tooth structures are being replaced, the restorative materials should be similar to original structure as could as possible. In the present study, a Mesial Occlusal Distal (MOD) type of restoration is chosen and applied to a sound tooth model. Four cases of restoration are investigated: two cases in which base are used under restorative materials and two cases in which base is deleted. The restorative materials are amalgam and composite and glass-inomer is used as a base material. Modeling is done in the solid works ambient by means of an exact measuring of a typical human tooth dimensions. Tooth behavior under thermal load due to consuming hot liquids is analyzed by means of a three dimensional finite element method using ANSYS software. The highest values of tensile and compressive stresses are compared with tensile and compressive strength of the tooth and restorative materials and the value of shear stress on the tooth and restoration junctions is compared with the bond strength. Also, sound tooth under the same thermal load is analyzed and the results are compared with those obtained for restored models. Temperature and stress distributions in the tooth are calculated for each case, with a special consideration in the vicinity of pulp and restoration region. Numerical results show that in two cases with amalgam, using the base material (Glass-ionomer) under the restorative material causes to decrease the maximum temperature in the restorative teeth. In the stress analysis, it is seen that the principal stress has its maximum values in composite restorations. The maximum temperatures are found in the restoration case of amalgam without base. Besides, it is found that restoration has not any influence on the stress values at DEJ, such that for all cases, these values are close to sound tooth results.

Conjoint Analysis: A Preference-Based Approach for the Accounting of Multiple Benefits in Southern Forest Management

Treesearch

F. Christian Zinkhan; Thomas P. Holmes; D. Evan Mercer

1997-01-01

Conjoint analysis, which enables a manager to measure the relative importance of a forest's multidimensional attributes, is critically reviewed and assessed. Special attention is given to the feasibility of using conjoint analysis for measuring the utility of market and nonmarket outputs from southern forests. Also, an application to a case of designing a nature...

The need for consumer behavior analysis in health care coverage decisions.

PubMed

Thompson, A M; Rao, C P

1990-01-01

Demographic analysis has been the primary form of analysis connected with health care coverage decisions. This paper reviews past demographic research and shows the need to use behavioral analyses for health care coverage policy decisions. A behavioral model based research study is presented and a case is made for integrated study into why consumers make health care coverage decisions.

Team-Based Peer Review as a Form of Formative Assessment--The Case of a Systems Analysis and Design Workshop

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lavy, Ilana; Yadin, Aharon

2010-01-01

The present study was carried out within a systems analysis and design workshop. In addition to the standard analysis and design tasks, this workshop included practices designed to enhance student capabilities related to non-technical knowledge areas, such as critical thinking, interpersonal and team skills, and business understanding. Each task…

Integrating environmental gap analysis with spatial conservation prioritization: a case study from Victoria, Australia.

PubMed

Sharafi, Seyedeh Mahdieh; Moilanen, Atte; White, Matt; Burgman, Mark

2012-12-15

Gap analysis is used to analyse reserve networks and their coverage of biodiversity, thus identifying gaps in biodiversity representation that may be filled by additional conservation measures. Gap analysis has been used to identify priorities for species and habitat types. When it is applied to identify gaps in the coverage of environmental variables, it embodies the assumption that combinations of environmental variables are effective surrogates for biodiversity attributes. The question remains of how to fill gaps in conservation systems efficiently. Conservation prioritization software can identify those areas outside existing conservation areas that contribute to the efficient covering of gaps in biodiversity features. We show how environmental gap analysis can be implemented using high-resolution information about environmental variables and ecosystem condition with the publicly available conservation prioritization software, Zonation. Our method is based on the conversion of combinations of environmental variables into biodiversity features. We also replicated the analysis by using Species Distribution Models (SDMs) as biodiversity features to evaluate the robustness and utility of our environment-based analysis. We apply the technique to a planning case study of the state of Victoria, Australia. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Method of Analysis of the Topic of Doctoral Thesis in the Field of Castings Production. Case Study on the Situation in Romania

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Soporan, V. F.; Samoilă, V.; Lehene, T. R.; Pădureţu, S.; Crişan, M. D.; Vescan, M. M.

2018-06-01

The paper presents a method of analysis of doctoral theses in castings production, elaborated in Romania, the analysis period ranging from 1918 to 2016. The procedure, based on the evolution of the analyzed problem, consists of the following steps: establishment of a coding system for the domains and subdomains established in the thematic characterization of doctoral theses; the establishment of the doctoral organizing institutions, the doctoral specialties, the doctoral supervisors and the time frame for the analysis; selecting the doctoral thesis that will be included in the analysis; establishing the key words for characterization of doctoral theses, based on their title; the assignment of theses to the domains and subdomains according to the meaning of the keywords, to the existing groups of the coding system; statistical processing of results and determination of shares for each domain and subdomain; conclusions on the results obtained and their interpretation in the context of economic and social developments. The proposed method being considered as general, the case study is carried out at the level of the specific field of castings production, the territory of the analysis refers to the institutions organizing doctoral studies.

Effect of costing methods on unit cost of hospital medical services.

PubMed

Riewpaiboon, Arthorn; Malaroje, Saranya; Kongsawatt, Sukalaya

2007-04-01

To explore the variance of unit costs of hospital medical services due to different costing methods employed in the analysis. Retrospective and descriptive study at Kaengkhoi District Hospital, Saraburi Province, Thailand, in the fiscal year 2002. The process started with a calculation of unit costs of medical services as a base case. After that, the unit costs were re-calculated based on various methods. Finally, the variations of the results obtained from various methods and the base case were computed and compared. The total annualized capital cost of buildings and capital items calculated by the accounting-based approach (averaging the capital purchase prices throughout their useful life) was 13.02% lower than that calculated by the economic-based approach (combination of depreciation cost and interest on undepreciated portion over the useful life). A change of discount rate from 3% to 6% results in a 4.76% increase of the hospital's total annualized capital cost. When the useful life of durable goods was changed from 5 to 10 years, the total annualized capital cost of the hospital decreased by 17.28% from that of the base case. Regarding alternative criteria of indirect cost allocation, unit cost of medical services changed by a range of -6.99% to +4.05%. We explored the effect on unit cost of medical services in one department. Various costing methods, including departmental allocation methods, ranged between -85% and +32% against those of the base case. Based on the variation analysis, the economic-based approach was suitable for capital cost calculation. For the useful life of capital items, appropriate duration should be studied and standardized. Regarding allocation criteria, single-output criteria might be more efficient than the combined-output and complicated ones. For the departmental allocation methods, micro-costing method was the most suitable method at the time of study. These different costing methods should be standardized and developed as guidelines since they could affect implementation of the national health insurance scheme and health financing management.

Review of extended producer responsibility: A case study approach.

PubMed

Gupt, Yamini; Sahay, Samraj

2015-07-01

Principles of extended producer responsibility have been the core of most of the recent policies and legislation dealing with the end-of-life management of recyclable goods. This article makes an exploratory review of 27 cases of extended producer responsibility from developed and developing economies with and without informal recycling, to ascertain the most important aspect of extended producer responsibility. A comparative analysis of the cases with respect to role of stakeholders in the upstream and downstream stages of the extended producer responsibility has been carried out. Further, the study uses exploratory factor analysis to determine the important aspects of the extended producer responsibility in practice using 13 variables identified from the review. Findings of the comparative analysis reveal that financial responsibility of the producers and separate collecting and recycling agencies contributed significantly to the success of the extended producer responsibility-based environmental policies. Regulatory provisions, take-back responsibility and financial flow come out to be the three most important aspects of the extended producer responsibility. Presence of informal sector had a negative impact on the regulatory provisions. The outcomes of this study could serve as a guideline for designing of effective extended producer responsibility-based policies. © The Author(s) 2015.

Application of artifical intelligence principles to the analysis of "crazy" speech.

PubMed

Garfield, D A; Rapp, C

1994-04-01

Artificial intelligence computer simulation methods can be used to investigate psychotic or "crazy" speech. Here, symbolic reasoning algorithms establish semantic networks that schematize speech. These semantic networks consist of two main structures: case frames and object taxonomies. Node-based reasoning rules apply to object taxonomies and pathway-based reasoning rules apply to case frames. Normal listeners may recognize speech as "crazy talk" based on violations of node- and pathway-based reasoning rules. In this article, three separate segments of schizophrenic speech illustrate violations of these rules. This artificial intelligence approach is compared and contrasted with other neurolinguistic approaches and is discussed as a conceptual link between neurobiological and psychodynamic understandings of psychopathology.

The Linguistic and the Contextual in Applied Genre Analysis: The Case of the Company Audit Report

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Flowerdew, John; Wan, Alina

2010-01-01

By means of an analysis of the genre of the audit report, this study highlights the respective roles of linguistic and contextual analysis in genre analysis, if the results are to be of maximum use in ESP course design. On the one hand, based on a corpus of current and authentic written auditors' reports produced in a large international Hong Kong…

Longitudinal Assessment of Progress in Reasoning Capacity and Relation with Self-Estimation of Knowledge Base

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Collard, Anne; Mélot, France; Bourguignon, Jean-Pierre

2015-01-01

The aim of the study was to investigate progress in reasoning capacity and knowledge base appraisal in a longitudinal analysis of data from summative evaluation throughout a medical problem-based learning curriculum. The scores in multidisciplinary discussion of a clinical case and multiple choice questionnaires (MCQs) were studied longitudinally…

Moses' Black Wife: A Case Study Analysis of Secondary School Students' Arts-Based Projects

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Reingold, Matt

2014-01-01

Practitioner research was conducted on Grade 10 students' arts-based projects of Numbers 12 in order to assess the value of using the arts in Jewish secondary schools. Based on interview transcripts, projects, and written statements, three themes emerged that demonstrated why teachers should use the arts in their classes. The arts provided…

Thinking big

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Collins, Harry

2008-02-01

Physicists are often quick to discount social research based on qualitative techniques such as ethnography and "deep case studies" - where a researcher draws conclusions about a community based on immersion in the field - thinking that only quantitative research backed up by statistical analysis is sound. The balance is not so clear, however.

[Miscommunication as a risk focus in patient safety : Work process analysis in prehospital emergency care].

PubMed

Wilk, S; Siegl, L; Siegl, K; Hohenstein, C

2018-04-01

In an analysis of a critical incident reporting system (CIRS) in out-of-hospital emergency medicine, it was demonstrated that in 30% of cases deficient communication led to a threat to patients; however, the analysis did not show what exactly the most dangerous work processes are. Current research shows the impact of poor communication on patient safety. An out-of-hospital workflow analysis collects data about key work processes and risk areas. The analysis points out confounding factors for a sufficient communication. Almost 70% of critical incidents are based on human factors. Factors, such as communication and teamwork have an impact but fatigue, noise levels and illness also have a major influence. (I) CIRS database analysis The workflow analysis was based on 247 CIRS cases. This was completed by participant observation and interviews with emergency doctors and paramedics. The 247 CIRS cases displayed 282 communication incidents, which are categorized into 6 subcategories of miscommunication. One CIRS case can be classified into different categories if more communication incidents were validated by the reviewers and four experienced emergency physicians sorted these cases into six subcategories. (II) Workflow analysis The workflow analysis was carried out between 2015 and 2016 in Jena and Berlin, Germany. The focal point of research was to find accumulation of communication risks in different parts of prehospital patient care. During 30 h driving with emergency ambulances, the author interviewed 12 members of the emergency medical service of which 5 were emergency physicians and 7 paramedics. A total of 11 internal medicine cases and one automobile accident were monitored. After patient care the author asked in a 15-min interview if miscommunication or communication incidents occurred. (I) CIRS analysis Between 2005 and 2015, 845 reports were reported to the database. The experts identified 247 incident reports with communication failure. All communication aspects were analyzed and classified. We identified 282 communication incidents. (II) Workflow analysis The analysis showed three phases of prehospital patient care: 1. incoming emergency call and dispatch of ambulance service, 2. prehospital treatment, 3. transportation to a hospital. Overall, the number of incidences is increasing as a consequence of parallel workflows. Category 1 was particularly significant and predominantly, paramedics criticized that emergency physicians did not acknowledge their advice (n = 73 vs. n = 9). Category 3 with n = 63, category 4 with n = 20 and category 2 with n = 13 were the major reasons for incidents. A better interface communication helps to coordinate patient transfer and is an option for optimizing resources. Frequent training in communication is an option to avoid incidents.

Association between glutathione S-transferase P1 Ile (105) Val gene polymorphism and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A meta-analysis based on seventeen case-control studies.

PubMed

Yang, Lingjing; Li, Xixia; Tong, Xiang; Fan, Hong

2015-12-01

Previous studies have shown that glutathione S-transferase P1 (GSTP1) was associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, the association between GSTP1 Ile (105) Val gene polymorphism and COPD remains controversial. To drive a more precise estimation, we performed a meta-analysis based on published case-control studies. An electronic search of PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane library, Web of Science and China Knowledge Resource Integrated (CNKI) Database for papers on GSTP1 Ile (105) Val gene polymorphism and COPD risk was performed. The pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to assess the strength of association in the homozygote model, heterozygote model, dominant model, recessive model and an additive mode. Statistical heterogeneity, test of publication bias and sensitivity analysis was performed. The software STATA (Version 13.0) was used data analysis. Overall, seventeen studies with 1892 cases and 2012 controls were included in this meta-analysis. The GSTP1 Ile (105) Val polymorphism showed pooled odds ratios for the homozygote comparison (OR = 1.501, 95%CI [0.862, 2.614]), heterozygote comparison (OR = 0.924, 95%CI [0.733, 1.165]), dominant model (OR = 1.003, 95%CI [0.756, 1.331]), recessive model (OR = 1.510, 95%CI [0.934, 2.439]), and an additive model (OR = 1.072, 95%CI [0.822, 1.398]). In conclusion, the current meta-analysis, based on the most updated information, showed no significant association between GSTP1 Ile (105) Val gene polymorphism and COPD risk in any genetic models. The results of subgroup analysis also showed no significant association between GSTP1 Ile (105) Val gene polymorphism and COPD risk in Asian population and Caucasian population. Further studies involving large populations and careful control with age, sex, ethnicity, and cigarette smoking are greatly needed.

[Major psychiatric disorders and filicide: a descriptive analysis of filicides perpetrated by women with psychotic mental illness].

PubMed

Lehoczki, Ágnes; Lukács-Miszler, Katalin

2013-01-01

This study aims to reflect on the connection between maternal filicide and major psychiatric disorders based on international literature, and analysis of filicides perpetrated by women and ending with compulsory medical treatment based on a not guilty by reason of insanity verdict. For the purpose of the analysis we collected cases back to 1993 from the archives of the Forensic Observation and Psychiatric Institution (IMEI), when a female perpetrator committed homicide against her blood-related offspring, after which she spent her compulsory medical treatment in the Institution. We had 14 cases which were only descriptively analysed due to the low number of cases. We collected data through overview of the documentation of the patients. We focused on several factors: demographic characteristics of the victims, characteristics of the homicidal act, demographic and psychiatric characteristics of the perpetrators. Most importantly, our results show interesting findings in the field of gender distribution of the victims. In relation to suicide risk, our results concur with previous findings pointing out its strong connection with filicide. Furthermore, our findings point out the relevance of schizoaffective disorder, as it was the most frequent diagnosis in our cases. We make our conclusions primarily in regard of prevention, we emphasise the strongest risk factors according to the results, which can draw the clinical practitioner's attention to the danger of filicide.

Comparison of the effect of endodontic-periodontal combined lesion on the outcome of endodontic microsurgery with that of isolated endodontic lesion: survival analysis using propensity score analysis.

PubMed

Song, Minju; Kang, Minji; Kang, Dae Ryong; Jung, Hoi In; Kim, Euiseong

2018-05-01

The purpose of this retrospective clinical study was to evaluate the effect of lesion types related to endodontic microsurgery on the clinical outcome. Patients who underwent endodontic microsurgery between March 2001 and March 2014 with a postoperative follow-up period of at least 1 year were included in the study. Survival analyses were conducted to compare the clinical outcomes between isolated endodontic lesion group (endo group) and endodontic-periodontal combined lesion group (endo-perio group) and to evaluate other clinical variables. To reduce the effect of selection bias in this study, the estimated propensity scores were used to match the cases of the endo group with those of the endo-perio group. Among the 414 eligible cases, the 83 cases in the endo-perio group were matched to 166 out of the 331 cases in the endo group based on propensity score matching (PSM). The cumulated success rates of the endo and endo-perio groups were 87.3 and 72.3%, respectively. The median success period of the endo-perio group was 12 years (95% CI: 5.507, 18.498). Lesion type was found to be significant according to both Log-rank test (P = 0.002) and Cox proportional hazard regression analysis (P = 0.001). Among the other clinical variables, sex (female or male), age, and tooth type (anterior, premolar, or molar) were determined to be significant in Cox regression analysis (P < 0.05). Endodontic-periodontal combined lesions had a negative effect on the clinical outcome based on an analysis that utilized PSM, a useful statistical matching method for observational studies. Lesion type is a significant predictor of the outcome of endodontic microsurgery.

Constrained physical therapist practice: an ethical case analysis of recommending discharge placement from the acute care setting.

PubMed

Nalette, Ernest

2010-06-01

Constrained practice is routinely encountered by physical therapists and may limit the physical therapist's primary moral responsibility-which is to help the patient to become well again. Ethical practice under such conditions requires a certain moral character of the practitioner. The purposes of this article are: (1) to provide an ethical analysis of a typical patient case of constrained clinical practice, (2) to discuss the moral implications of constrained clinical practice, and (3) to identify key moral principles and virtues fostering ethical physical therapist practice. The case represents a common scenario of discharge planning in acute care health facilities in the northeastern United States. An applied ethics approach was used for case analysis. The decision following analysis of the dilemma was to provide the needed care to the patient as required by compassion, professional ethical standards, and organizational mission. Constrained clinical practice creates a moral dilemma for physical therapists. Being responsive to the patient's needs moves the physical therapist's practice toward the professional ideal of helping vulnerable patients become well again. Meeting the patient's needs is a professional requirement of the physical therapist as moral agent. Acting otherwise requires an alternative position be ethically justified based on systematic analysis of a particular case. Skepticism of status quo practices is required to modify conventional individual, organizational, and societal practices toward meeting the patient's best interest.

When is hub gene selection better than standard meta-analysis?

PubMed

Langfelder, Peter; Mischel, Paul S; Horvath, Steve

2013-01-01

Since hub nodes have been found to play important roles in many networks, highly connected hub genes are expected to play an important role in biology as well. However, the empirical evidence remains ambiguous. An open question is whether (or when) hub gene selection leads to more meaningful gene lists than a standard statistical analysis based on significance testing when analyzing genomic data sets (e.g., gene expression or DNA methylation data). Here we address this question for the special case when multiple genomic data sets are available. This is of great practical importance since for many research questions multiple data sets are publicly available. In this case, the data analyst can decide between a standard statistical approach (e.g., based on meta-analysis) and a co-expression network analysis approach that selects intramodular hubs in consensus modules. We assess the performance of these two types of approaches according to two criteria. The first criterion evaluates the biological insights gained and is relevant in basic research. The second criterion evaluates the validation success (reproducibility) in independent data sets and often applies in clinical diagnostic or prognostic applications. We compare meta-analysis with consensus network analysis based on weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) in three comprehensive and unbiased empirical studies: (1) Finding genes predictive of lung cancer survival, (2) finding methylation markers related to age, and (3) finding mouse genes related to total cholesterol. The results demonstrate that intramodular hub gene status with respect to consensus modules is more useful than a meta-analysis p-value when identifying biologically meaningful gene lists (reflecting criterion 1). However, standard meta-analysis methods perform as good as (if not better than) a consensus network approach in terms of validation success (criterion 2). The article also reports a comparison of meta-analysis techniques applied to gene expression data and presents novel R functions for carrying out consensus network analysis, network based screening, and meta analysis.

Stabilization of nonlinear systems using sampled-data output-feedback fuzzy controller based on polynomial-fuzzy-model-based control approach.

PubMed

Lam, H K

2012-02-01

This paper investigates the stability of sampled-data output-feedback (SDOF) polynomial-fuzzy-model-based control systems. Representing the nonlinear plant using a polynomial fuzzy model, an SDOF fuzzy controller is proposed to perform the control process using the system output information. As only the system output is available for feedback compensation, it is more challenging for the controller design and system analysis compared to the full-state-feedback case. Furthermore, because of the sampling activity, the control signal is kept constant by the zero-order hold during the sampling period, which complicates the system dynamics and makes the stability analysis more difficult. In this paper, two cases of SDOF fuzzy controllers, which either share the same number of fuzzy rules or not, are considered. The system stability is investigated based on the Lyapunov stability theory using the sum-of-squares (SOS) approach. SOS-based stability conditions are obtained to guarantee the system stability and synthesize the SDOF fuzzy controller. Simulation examples are given to demonstrate the merits of the proposed SDOF fuzzy control approach.

Epidemiological and Economic Impact of Monovalent and Pentavalent Rotavirus Vaccines in Low and Middle Income Countries: A Cost-effectiveness Modeling Analysis.

PubMed

Paternina-Caicedo, Angel; De la Hoz-Restrepo, Fernando; Alvis-Guzmán, Nelson

2015-07-01

The competing choices of vaccination with either RV1 or RV5, the potential budget impact of vaccines on the EPI with different prices and new evidence make important an updated analysis for health decision makers in each country. The objective of this study is to assess cost-effectiveness of the monovalent and pentavalent rotavirus vaccines and impact on children deaths, inpatient and outpatient visits in 116 low and middle income countries that represent approximately 99% of rotavirus mortality. A decision tree model followed hypothetical cohorts of children from birth up to 5 years of age for each country in 2010. Inputs were gathered from international databases and previous research on incidence and effectiveness of monovalent and pentavalent vaccines. Costs were expressed in 2010 international dollars. Outcomes were reported in terms of cost per disability-adjusted life-year averted, comparing no vaccination with either monovalent or pentavalent mass introduction. Vaccine price was assumed fixed for all world low-income and middle-income countries. Around 292,000 deaths, 3.34 million inpatient cases and 23.09 million outpatient cases would occur with no vaccination. In the base-case scenario, monovalent vaccination would prevent 54.7% of inpatient cases and 45.4% of deaths. Pentavalent vaccination would prevent 51.4% of inpatient cases and 41.1% of deaths. The vaccine was cost-effective in all world countries in the base-case scenario for both vaccines. Cost per disability-adjusted life-year averted in all selected countries was I$372 for monovalent, and I$453 for pentavalent vaccination. Rotavirus vaccine is cost-effective in most analyzed countries. Despite cost-effectiveness analysis is a useful tool for decision making in middle-income countries, for low-income countries health decision makers should also assess the impact of introducing either vaccine on local resources and budget impact analysis of vaccination.

Continuous overturn control of compactors/rollers by rollover protective structures

PubMed Central

Myers, Melvin L.

2009-01-01

The objective of this article is to report on the effectiveness of Rollover Protective Structures (ROPS) in preventing continuous overturns of compactors/rollers. This study is a case-based analysis of government investigation reports of injury-related overturns of compactors/rollers. The overturns were predominately on construction sites including road and embankment construction in the USA. Other sites included driveway and roadway maintenance or repair and transporting of compactors/rollers either by driving or when loading on or unloading from trailers. The principle intervention observed in controlling a continuous overturn (a roll beyond 90° relative to the impact surface) was the presence of a ROPS on a compactor/roller that serves as an anti-roll bar. The main outcome measures are cases of compactor/roller overturns that are restricted to a 90° roll or are continuous (exceed a 90° roll.) All cases of an overturn in which a ROPS was present resulted in no continuous overturn, and the cases involved with no ROPS averaged an overturn of 301°, showing a propensity for a continuous overturn. This case-based analysis identified a ROPS on compactors/rollers as an effective control for reducing the risk of an overturn to 90° relative to the impact plane. PMID:21765649

Similarity based false-positive reduction for breast cancer using radiographic and pathologic imaging features

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pai, Akshay; Samala, Ravi K.; Zhang, Jianying; Qian, Wei

2010-03-01

Mammography reading by radiologists and breast tissue image interpretation by pathologists often leads to high False Positive (FP) Rates. Similarly, current Computer Aided Diagnosis (CADx) methods tend to concentrate more on sensitivity, thus increasing the FP rates. A novel method is introduced here which employs similarity based method to decrease the FP rate in the diagnosis of microcalcifications. This method employs the Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and the similarity metrics in order to achieve the proposed goal. The training and testing set is divided into generalized (Normal and Abnormal) and more specific (Abnormal, Normal, Benign) classes. The performance of this method as a standalone classification system is evaluated in both the cases (general and specific). In another approach the probability of each case belonging to a particular class is calculated. If the probabilities are too close to classify, the augmented CADx system can be instructed to have a detailed analysis of such cases. In case of normal cases with high probability, no further processing is necessary, thus reducing the computation time. Hence, this novel method can be employed in cascade with CADx to reduce the FP rate and also avoid unnecessary computational time. Using this methodology, a false positive rate of 8% and 11% is achieved for mammography and cellular images respectively.

Electric energy savings from new technologies. Revision 1

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

Harrer, B.J.; Kellogg, M.A.; Lyke, A.J.

1986-09-01

Purpose of the report is to provide information about the electricity-saving potential of new technologies to OCEP that it can use in developing alternative long-term projections of US electricity consumption. Low-, base-, and high-case scenarios of the electricity savings for 10 technologies were prepared. The total projected annual savings for the year 2000 for all 10 technologies were 137 billion kilowatt hours (BkWh), 279 BkWh, and 470 BkWh, respectively, for the three cases. The magnitude of these savings projections can be gauged by comparing them to the Department's reference case projection for the 1985 National Energy Policy Plan. In themore » Department's reference case, total consumption in 2000 is projected to be 3319 BkWh. Because approximately 75% of the base-case estimate of savings are already incorporated into the reference projection, only 25% of the savings estimated here should be subtracted from the reference projection for analysis purposes.« less

CCR4 frameshift mutation identifies a distinct group of adult T cell leukaemia/lymphoma with poor prognosis.

PubMed

Yoshida, Noriaki; Miyoshi, Hiroaki; Kato, Takeharu; Sakata-Yanagimoto, Mamiko; Niino, Daisuke; Taniguchi, Hiroaki; Moriuchi, Yukiyoshi; Miyahara, Masaharu; Kurita, Daisuke; Sasaki, Yuya; Shimono, Joji; Kawamoto, Keisuke; Utsunomiya, Atae; Imaizumi, Yoshitaka; Seto, Masao; Ohshima, Koichi

2016-04-01

Adult T cell leukaemia/lymphoma (ATLL) is an intractable T cell neoplasm caused by human T cell leukaemia virus type 1. Next-generation sequencing-based comprehensive mutation studies have revealed recurrent somatic CCR4 mutations in ATLL, although clinicopathological findings associated with CCR4 mutations remain to be delineated. In the current study, 184 cases of peripheral T cell lymphoma, including 113 cases of ATLL, were subjected to CCR4 mutation analysis. This sequence analysis identified mutations in 27% (30/113) of cases of ATLL and 9% (4/44) of cases of peripheral T cell lymphoma not otherwise specified. Identified mutations included nonsense (NS) and frameshift (FS) mutations. No significant differences in clinicopathological findings were observed between ATLL cases stratified by presence of CCR4 mutation. All ATLL cases with CCR4 mutations exhibited cell-surface CCR4 positivity. Semi-quantitative CCR4 protein analysis of immunohistochemical sections revealed higher CCR4 expression in cases with NS mutations of CCR4 than in cases with wild-type (WT) CCR4. Furthermore, among ATLL cases, FS mutation was significantly associated with a poor prognosis, compared with NS mutation and WT CCR4. These results suggest that CCR4 mutation is an important determinant of the clinical course in ATLL cases, and that NS and FS mutations of CCR4 behave differently with respect to ATLL pathophysiology. Copyright © 2016 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Different Testing Strategies that Use Antibody Levels to Detect Chronic Hepatitis C in Blood Donors.

PubMed

Granados-García, Víctor; Contreras, Ana M; García-Peña, Carmen; Salinas-Escudero, Guillermo; Thein, Hla-Hla; Flores, Yvonne N

2016-01-01

We conducted a cost-effectiveness analysis of seven hepatitis C virus (HCV) testing strategies in blood donors. Three of the seven strategies were based on HCV diagnosis and reporting guidelines in Mexico and four were from previous and current recommendations outlined by the CDC. The strategies that were evaluated determine antibody levels according to the signal-to-cut-off (S/CO) ratio and use reflex Immunoblot (IMB) or HCV RNA tests to confirm true positive (TP) cases of chronic HCV infection. Costs were calculated from the perspective of the Mexican Institute of Social Security (IMSS). A decision tree model was developed to estimate the expected number of true positive cases and costs for the base-case scenarios and for the sensitivity analyses. Base-case findings indicate an extended dominance of the CDC-USA2 and CDC-USA4 options by the IMSS Mexico3 and IMSS-Mexico1 alternatives. The probabilistic sensitivity analyses results suggest that for a willingness-to-pay (WTP) range of $0-9,000 USD the IMSS-Mexico1 strategy is the most cost-effective of all strategies ($5,000 USD per TP). The IMSS-Mexico3, IMSS-Mexico2, and CDC-USA3 strategies are also cost-effective strategies that cost between $7,800 and $8,800 USD per TP case detected. The CDC-USA1 strategy was very expensive and not cost-effective. HCV antibody testing strategies based on the classification of two or three levels of the S/CO are cost-effective procedures to identify patients who require reflex IMB or HCV RNA testing to confirm chronic HCV infection.

Variogram Analysis of Response surfaces (VARS): A New Framework for Global Sensitivity Analysis of Earth and Environmental Systems Models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Razavi, S.; Gupta, H. V.

2015-12-01

Earth and environmental systems models (EESMs) are continually growing in complexity and dimensionality with continuous advances in understanding and computing power. Complexity and dimensionality are manifested by introducing many different factors in EESMs (i.e., model parameters, forcings, boundary conditions, etc.) to be identified. Sensitivity Analysis (SA) provides an essential means for characterizing the role and importance of such factors in producing the model responses. However, conventional approaches to SA suffer from (1) an ambiguous characterization of sensitivity, and (2) poor computational efficiency, particularly as the problem dimension grows. Here, we present a new and general sensitivity analysis framework (called VARS), based on an analogy to 'variogram analysis', that provides an intuitive and comprehensive characterization of sensitivity across the full spectrum of scales in the factor space. We prove, theoretically, that Morris (derivative-based) and Sobol (variance-based) methods and their extensions are limiting cases of VARS, and that their SA indices can be computed as by-products of the VARS framework. We also present a practical strategy for the application of VARS to real-world problems, called STAR-VARS, including a new sampling strategy, called "star-based sampling". Our results across several case studies show the STAR-VARS approach to provide reliable and stable assessments of "global" sensitivity across the full range of scales in the factor space, while being at least 1-2 orders of magnitude more efficient than the benchmark Morris and Sobol approaches.

New arrows in the quiver for targeting care management: high-risk versus high-opportunity case identification.

PubMed

Bernstein, Richard H

2007-01-01

"Care management" purposefully obscures the distinctions between disease and case management and stresses their common features: action in the present to prevent adverse future outcomes and costs. It includes identifying a high-need population by referrals, screening, or data analysis, assessing those likely to benefit from interventions, intervening, evaluating the intervention, and adjusting interventions when needed. High-risk individuals can be identified using at least 9 techniques, from referrals and questionnaires to retrospective claims analysis and predictive models. Other than referrals, software based on the risk-adjustment methodology that we have adapted can incorporate all these methodologies. Because the risk adjustment employs extensive case mix and severity adjustment, it provides care managers with 3 innovative ways to identify not only high-risk individuals but also high-opportunity cases.

Reaction time for trimolecular reactions in compartment-based reaction-diffusion models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Fei; Chen, Minghan; Erban, Radek; Cao, Yang

2018-05-01

Trimolecular reaction models are investigated in the compartment-based (lattice-based) framework for stochastic reaction-diffusion modeling. The formulae for the first collision time and the mean reaction time are derived for the case where three molecules are present in the solution under periodic boundary conditions. For the case of reflecting boundary conditions, similar formulae are obtained using a computer-assisted approach. The accuracy of these formulae is further verified through comparison with numerical results. The presented derivation is based on the first passage time analysis of Montroll [J. Math. Phys. 10, 753 (1969)]. Montroll's results for two-dimensional lattice-based random walks are adapted and applied to compartment-based models of trimolecular reactions, which are studied in one-dimensional or pseudo one-dimensional domains.

Microarray-based comparative genomic hybridization analysis in neonates with congenital anomalies: detection of chromosomal imbalances.

PubMed

Emy Dorfman, Luiza; Leite, Júlio César L; Giugliani, Roberto; Riegel, Mariluce

2015-01-01

To identify chromosomal imbalances by whole-genome microarray-based comparative genomic hybridization (array-CGH) in DNA samples of neonates with congenital anomalies of unknown cause from a birth defects monitoring program at a public maternity hospital. A blind genomic analysis was performed retrospectively in 35 stored DNA samples of neonates born between July of 2011 and December of 2012. All potential DNA copy number variations detected (CNVs) were matched with those reported in public genomic databases, and their clinical significance was evaluated. Out of a total of 35 samples tested, 13 genomic imbalances were detected in 12/35 cases (34.3%). In 4/35 cases (11.4%), chromosomal imbalances could be defined as pathogenic; in 5/35 (14.3%) cases, DNA CNVs of uncertain clinical significance were identified; and in 4/35 cases (11.4%), normal variants were detected. Among the four cases with results considered causally related to the clinical findings, two of the four (50%) showed causative alterations already associated with well-defined microdeletion syndromes. In two of the four samples (50%), the chromosomal imbalances found, although predicted as pathogenic, had not been previously associated with recognized clinical entities. Array-CGH analysis allowed for a higher rate of detection of chromosomal anomalies, and this determination is especially valuable in neonates with congenital anomalies of unknown etiology, or in cases in which karyotype results cannot be obtained. Moreover, although the interpretation of the results must be refined, this method is a robust and precise tool that can be used in the first-line investigation of congenital anomalies, and should be considered for prospective/retrospective analyses of DNA samples by birth defect monitoring programs. Copyright © 2014 Sociedade Brasileira de Pediatria. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

A general regression framework for a secondary outcome in case-control studies.

PubMed

Tchetgen Tchetgen, Eric J

2014-01-01

Modern case-control studies typically involve the collection of data on a large number of outcomes, often at considerable logistical and monetary expense. These data are of potentially great value to subsequent researchers, who, although not necessarily concerned with the disease that defined the case series in the original study, may want to use the available information for a regression analysis involving a secondary outcome. Because cases and controls are selected with unequal probability, regression analysis involving a secondary outcome generally must acknowledge the sampling design. In this paper, the author presents a new framework for the analysis of secondary outcomes in case-control studies. The approach is based on a careful re-parameterization of the conditional model for the secondary outcome given the case-control outcome and regression covariates, in terms of (a) the population regression of interest of the secondary outcome given covariates and (b) the population regression of the case-control outcome on covariates. The error distribution for the secondary outcome given covariates and case-control status is otherwise unrestricted. For a continuous outcome, the approach sometimes reduces to extending model (a) by including a residual of (b) as a covariate. However, the framework is general in the sense that models (a) and (b) can take any functional form, and the methodology allows for an identity, log or logit link function for model (a).

16q24.1 microdeletion in a premature newborn: usefulness of array-based comparative genomic hybridization in persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn.

PubMed

Zufferey, Flore; Martinet, Danielle; Osterheld, Maria-Chiara; Niel-Bütschi, Florence; Giannoni, Eric; Schmutz, Nathalie Besuchet; Xia, Zhilian; Beckmann, Jacques S; Shaw-Smith, Charles; Stankiewicz, Pawel; Langston, Claire; Fellmann, Florence

2011-11-01

Report of a 16q24.1 deletion in a premature newborn, demonstrating the usefulness of array-based comparative genomic hybridization in persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn and multiple congenital malformations. Descriptive case report. Genetic department and neonatal intensive care unit of a tertiary care children's hospital. None. We report the case of a preterm male infant, born at 26 wks of gestation. A cardiac malformation and bilateral hydronephrosis were diagnosed at 19 wks of gestation. Karyotype analysis was normal, and a 22q11.2 microdeletion was excluded by fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis. A cesarean section was performed due to fetal distress. The patient developed persistent pulmonary hypertension unresponsive to mechanical ventilation and nitric oxide treatment and expired at 16 hrs of life. An autopsy revealed partial atrioventricular canal malformation and showed bilateral dilation of the renal pelvocaliceal system with bilateral ureteral stenosis and annular pancreas. Array-based comparative genomic hybridization analysis (Agilent oligoNT 44K, Agilent Technologies, Santa Clara, CA) showed an interstitial microdeletion encompassing the forkhead box gene cluster in 16q24.1. Review of the pulmonary microscopic examination showed the characteristic features of alveolar capillary dysplasia with misalignment of pulmonary veins. Some features were less prominent due to the gestational age. Our review of the literature shows that alveolar capillary dysplasia with misalignment of pulmonary veins is rare but probably underreported. Prematurity is not a usual presentation, and histologic features are difficult to interpret. In our case, array-based comparative genomic hybridization revealed a 16q24.1 deletion, leading to the final diagnosis of alveolar capillary dysplasia with misalignment of pulmonary veins. It emphasizes the usefulness of array-based comparative genomic hybridization analysis as a diagnostic tool with implications for both prognosis and management decisions in newborns with refractory persistent pulmonary hypertension and multiple congenital malformations.

Performance of Panfungal- and Specific-PCR-Based Procedures for Etiological Diagnosis of Invasive Fungal Diseases on Tissue Biopsy Specimens with Proven Infection: a 7-Year Retrospective Analysis from a Reference Laboratory

PubMed Central

Bernal-Martinez, L.; Castelli, M. V.; Rodriguez-Tudela, J. L.; Cuenca-Estrella, M.

2014-01-01

A retrospective analysis of real-time PCR (RT-PCR) results for 151 biopsy samples obtained from 132 patients with proven invasive fungal diseases was performed. PCR-based techniques proved to be fast and sensitive and enabled definitive diagnosis in all cases studied, with detection of a total of 28 fungal species. PMID:24574295

[Characteristics of perioperative period in Xenon-based combined general anaesthesia in neurosurgery].

PubMed

Viatkin, A A; Petrosian, L G; Mizikov, V M; Vasil'ev, S A

2013-01-01

Neuroprotection could be the aim to use Xenon for general anesthesia. However the experience of Xenon anesthesia in neurosurgery is quite limited. The appraisal of Xenon based anesthesia was accomplished in 12 patients during various brain surgery. Xe in concentration 65% was used to maintenance of anesthesia, other medication was avoided. As a resuIt there were 8 cases of arterial hypertension and 2 cases of superficial hypnotic state. Excitation (n = 3), hyperdynamic reaction (n = 8), PONV (n = 8) were detected in early postoperative period. An analysis of this study suggests a conclusion that studied method of Xenon-based anesthesia is inexpedient for neurosurgery.

Principal component and spatial correlation analysis of spectroscopic-imaging data in scanning probe microscopy.

PubMed

Jesse, Stephen; Kalinin, Sergei V

2009-02-25

An approach for the analysis of multi-dimensional, spectroscopic-imaging data based on principal component analysis (PCA) is explored. PCA selects and ranks relevant response components based on variance within the data. It is shown that for examples with small relative variations between spectra, the first few PCA components closely coincide with results obtained using model fitting, and this is achieved at rates approximately four orders of magnitude faster. For cases with strong response variations, PCA allows an effective approach to rapidly process, de-noise, and compress data. The prospects for PCA combined with correlation function analysis of component maps as a universal tool for data analysis and representation in microscopy are discussed.

Interactive decision support in hepatic surgery

PubMed Central

Dugas, Martin; Schauer, Rolf; Volk, Andreas; Rau, Horst

2002-01-01

Background Hepatic surgery is characterized by complicated operations with a significant peri- and postoperative risk for the patient. We developed a web-based, high-granular research database for comprehensive documentation of all relevant variables to evaluate new surgical techniques. Methods To integrate this research system into the clinical setting, we designed an interactive decision support component. The objective is to provide relevant information for the surgeon and the patient to assess preoperatively the risk of a specific surgical procedure. Based on five established predictors of patient outcomes, the risk assessment tool searches for similar cases in the database and aggregates the information to estimate the risk for an individual patient. Results The physician can verify the analysis and exclude manually non-matching cases according to his expertise. The analysis is visualized by means of a Kaplan-Meier plot. To evaluate the decision support component we analyzed data on 165 patients diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma (period 1996–2000). The similarity search provides a two-peak distribution indicating there are groups of similar patients and singular cases which are quite different to the average. The results of the risk estimation are consistent with the observed survival data, but must be interpreted with caution because of the limited number of matching reference cases. Conclusion Critical issues for the decision support system are clinical integration, a transparent and reliable knowledge base and user feedback. PMID:12003639

TBL1XR1/TP63: a novel recurrent gene fusion in B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma | Office of Cancer Genomics

Cancer.gov

Recently, the landscape of single base mutations in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) was described. Here we report the discovery of a gene fusion between TBL1XR1 and TP63, the only recurrent somatic novel gene fusion identified in our analysis of transcriptome data from 96 DLBCL cases. Based on this cohort and a further 157 DLBCL cases analyzed by FISH, the incidence in de novo germinal center B cell-like (GCB) DLBCL is 5% (6 of 115).

Prediction-based control for LTI systems with uncertain time-varying delays and partial state knowledge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Léchappé, V.; Moulay, E.; Plestan, F.

2018-06-01

The stability of a prediction-based controller for linear time-invariant (LTI) systems is studied in the presence of time-varying input and output delays. The uncertain delay case is treated as well as the partial state knowledge case. The reduction method is used in order to prove the convergence of the closed-loop system including the state observer, the predictor and the plant. Explicit conditions that guarantee the closed-loop stability are given, thanks to a Lyapunov-Razumikhin analysis. Simulations illustrate the theoretical results.

An Investigation of Computer-based Simulations for School Crises Management.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Degnan, Edward; Bozeman, William

2001-01-01

Describes development of a computer-based simulation program for training school personnel in crisis management. Addresses the data collection and analysis involved in developing a simulated event, the systems requirements for simulation, and a case study of application and use of the completed simulation. (Contains 21 references.) (Authors/PKP)

Optimizing Web-Based Instruction: A Case Study Using Poultry Processing Unit Operations

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

O' Bryan, Corliss A.; Crandall, Philip G.; Shores-Ellis, Katrina; Johnson, Donald M.; Ricke, Steven C.; Marcy, John

2009-01-01

Food companies and supporting industries need inexpensive, revisable training methods for large numbers of hourly employees due to continuing improvements in Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) programs, new processing equipment, and high employee turnover. HACCP-based food safety programs have demonstrated their value by reducing the…

Practicing Elementary Teachers' Perspectives of "Investigations" Curriculum.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ogolla, Penina A.

This in-depth case study explored the successes and struggles of elementary teachers as they implemented "Investigations in Number, Data, and Space," a K-5 research-based mathematics curriculum that offered students connected and meaningful mathematical problems and in-depth thinking. Data collection and analysis were based on the Zone…

Concepts and Measurements for Manpower and Occupational Analysis.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Scoville, James G.

This volume contains information on occupational data and their uses, jobs-theories, case studies, and improved data bases. A survey was made of current applications of occupational information data and conceptual bases and practical shortcomings of the more frequently used classification systems. In addition, an economic theory was developed to…

Computer-Game-Based Tutoring of Mathematics

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ke, Fengfeng

2013-01-01

This in-situ, descriptive case study examined the potential of implementing computer mathematics games as an anchor for tutoring of mathematics. Data were collected from middle school students at a rural pueblo school and an urban Hispanic-serving school, through in-field observation, content analysis of game-based tutoring-learning interactions,…

Effect of a culture-based screening algorithm on tuberculosis incidence in immigrants and refugees bound for the United States: a population-based cross-sectional study.

PubMed

Liu, Yecai; Posey, Drew L; Cetron, Martin S; Painter, John A

2015-03-17

Before 2007, immigrants and refugees bound for the United States were screened for tuberculosis (TB) by a smear-based algorithm that could not diagnose smear-negative/culture-positive TB. In 2007, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention implemented a culture-based algorithm. To evaluate the effect of the culture-based algorithm on preventing the importation of TB to the United States by immigrants and refugees from foreign countries. Population-based, cross-sectional study. Panel physician sites for overseas medical examination. Immigrants and refugees with TB. Comparison of the increase of smear-negative/culture-positive TB cases diagnosed overseas among immigrants and refugees by the culture-based algorithm with the decline of reported cases among foreign-born persons within 1 year after arrival in the United States from 2007 to 2012. Of the 3 212 421 arrivals of immigrants and refugees from 2007 to 2012, a total of 1 650 961 (51.4%) were screened by the smear-based algorithm and 1 561 460 (48.6%) were screened by the culture-based algorithm. Among the 4032 TB cases diagnosed by the culture-based algorithm, 2195 (54.4%) were smear-negative/culture-positive. Before implementation (2002 to 2006), the annual number of reported cases among foreign-born persons within 1 year after arrival was relatively constant (range, 1424 to 1626 cases; mean, 1504 cases) but decreased from 1511 to 940 cases during implementation (2007 to 2012). During the same period, the annual number of smear-negative/culture-positive TB cases diagnosed overseas among immigrants and refugees bound for the United States by the culture-based algorithm increased from 4 to 629. This analysis did not control for the decline in new arrivals of nonimmigrant visitors to the United States and the decrease of incidence of TB in their countries of origin. Implementation of the culture-based algorithm may have substantially reduced the incidence of TB among newly arrived, foreign-born persons in the United States. None.

On the Firing Line: Negligence in Physical Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Drowatzky, John N.

1977-01-01

Discusses teachers' vulnerability to tort actions for negligence in physical education classes, and suggests guidelines for proper teacher behavior, based on analysis of court cases in various states. (JG)

Economic evaluation of home-based telebehavioural health care compared to in-person treatment delivery for depression.

PubMed

Bounthavong, Mark; Pruitt, Larry D; Smolenski, Derek J; Gahm, Gregory A; Bansal, Aasthaa; Hansen, Ryan N

2018-02-01

Introduction Home-based telebehavioural healthcare improves access to mental health care for patients restricted by travel burden. However, there is limited evidence assessing the economic value of home-based telebehavioural health care compared to in-person care. We sought to compare the economic impact of home-based telebehavioural health care and in-person care for depression among current and former US service members. Methods We performed trial-based cost-minimisation and cost-utility analyses to assess the economic impact of home-based telebehavioural health care versus in-person behavioural care for depression. Our analyses focused on the payer perspective (Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs) at three months. We also performed a scenario analysis where all patients possessed video-conferencing technology that was approved by these agencies. The cost-utility analysis evaluated the impact of different depression categories on the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio. One-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed to test the robustness of the model assumptions. Results In the base case analysis the total direct cost of home-based telebehavioural health care was higher than in-person care (US$71,974 versus US$20,322). Assuming that patients possessed government-approved video-conferencing technology, home-based telebehavioural health care was less costly compared to in-person care (US$19,177 versus US$20,322). In one-way sensitivity analyses, the proportion of patients possessing personal computers was a major driver of direct costs. In the cost-utility analysis, home-based telebehavioural health care was dominant when patients possessed video-conferencing technology. Results from probabilistic sensitivity analyses did not differ substantially from base case results. Discussion Home-based telebehavioural health care is dependent on the cost of supplying video-conferencing technology to patients but offers the opportunity to increase access to care. Health-care policies centred on implementation of home-based telebehavioural health care should ensure that these technologies are able to be successfully deployed on patients' existing technology.

[Investigation of geographic relationship between farmer's market with live birds and human infections with avian influenza A(H7N9)virus based on internet data analysis].

PubMed

Yu, Weiwen; Du, Pengcheng; Chen, Chen; Lu, Shan; Kan, Biao; Du, Xiaoping; Xu, Jianguo

2014-03-01

Farmer's markets with live birds (FMLB) are key sites where human infections by influenza A virus subtype H7N9 happened. Approximately 80% cases have exposed to FMLB. This study is to investigate the geographic relationship between FMLB and human cases based on analysis of internet data of their geographic locations. Using big data from internet, we searched all FMLB in the cities where the human cases have been reported, then analyzed geographic relations, and evaluated the possibility of visits of the patients to the FMLB around them. The densities of FMLB, population and live poultries were also analyzed. Forty-two cities and 10 615 markets were included in the study. It is indicated that the number of human cases has positive correlations with the population density, the number and density of markets. Except three markets in Foshan, human cases have been reported within 5 km of 10 of 13 markets, which shows that the live bird trading is highly relevant with the distribution of cases. We identified 13 hot spots in the cities including Hangzhou, Shenzhen, et al, where clustered cases have emerged. The numbers of human cases are significantly high in cities where FMLB are detected positive for H7N9 virus. These virus positive markets usually affect the people's residence within 5km area. The number and location of FMLB in cities should be re-evaluated and re-planed for healthy city where the risk of residents infecting avian influenza virus is greatly reduced or eliminated.

[Development and practice evaluation of blood acid-base imbalance analysis software].

PubMed

Chen, Bo; Huang, Haiying; Zhou, Qiang; Peng, Shan; Jia, Hongyu; Ji, Tianxing

2014-11-01

To develop a blood gas, acid-base imbalance analysis computer software to diagnose systematically, rapidly, accurately and automatically determine acid-base imbalance type, and evaluate the clinical application. Using VBA programming language, a computer aided diagnostic software for the judgment of acid-base balance was developed. The clinical data of 220 patients admitted to the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University were retrospectively analyzed. The arterial blood gas [pH value, HCO(3)(-), arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO₂)] and electrolytes included data (Na⁺ and Cl⁻) were collected. Data were entered into the software for acid-base imbalances judgment. At the same time the data generation was calculated manually by H-H compensation formula for determining the type of acid-base imbalance. The consistency of judgment results from software and manual calculation was evaluated, and the judgment time of two methods was compared. The clinical diagnosis of the types of acid-base imbalance for the 220 patients: 65 cases were normal, 90 cases with simple type, mixed type in 41 cases, and triplex type in 24 cases. The accuracy of the judgment results of the normal and triplex types from computer software compared with which were calculated manually was 100%, the accuracy of the simple type judgment was 98.9% and 78.0% for the mixed type, and the total accuracy was 95.5%. The Kappa value of judgment result from software and manual judgment was 0.935, P=0.000. It was demonstrated that the consistency was very good. The time for software to determine acid-base imbalances was significantly shorter than the manual judgment (seconds:18.14 ± 3.80 vs. 43.79 ± 23.86, t=7.466, P=0.000), so the method of software was much faster than the manual method. Software judgment can replace manual judgment with the characteristics of rapid, accurate and convenient, can improve work efficiency and quality of clinical doctors and has great clinical application promotion value.

Detecting non-orthology in the COGs database and other approaches grouping orthologs using genome-specific best hits.

PubMed

Dessimoz, Christophe; Boeckmann, Brigitte; Roth, Alexander C J; Gonnet, Gaston H

2006-01-01

Correct orthology assignment is a critical prerequisite of numerous comparative genomics procedures, such as function prediction, construction of phylogenetic species trees and genome rearrangement analysis. We present an algorithm for the detection of non-orthologs that arise by mistake in current orthology classification methods based on genome-specific best hits, such as the COGs database. The algorithm works with pairwise distance estimates, rather than computationally expensive and error-prone tree-building methods. The accuracy of the algorithm is evaluated through verification of the distribution of predicted cases, case-by-case phylogenetic analysis and comparisons with predictions from other projects using independent methods. Our results show that a very significant fraction of the COG groups include non-orthologs: using conservative parameters, the algorithm detects non-orthology in a third of all COG groups. Consequently, sequence analysis sensitive to correct orthology assignments will greatly benefit from these findings.

Dependability analysis of parallel systems using a simulation-based approach. M.S. Thesis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sawyer, Darren Charles

1994-01-01

The analysis of dependability in large, complex, parallel systems executing real applications or workloads is examined in this thesis. To effectively demonstrate the wide range of dependability problems that can be analyzed through simulation, the analysis of three case studies is presented. For each case, the organization of the simulation model used is outlined, and the results from simulated fault injection experiments are explained, showing the usefulness of this method in dependability modeling of large parallel systems. The simulation models are constructed using DEPEND and C++. Where possible, methods to increase dependability are derived from the experimental results. Another interesting facet of all three cases is the presence of some kind of workload of application executing in the simulation while faults are injected. This provides a completely new dimension to this type of study, not possible to model accurately with analytical approaches.

Techno-economic analysis for a sugarcane biorefinery: Colombian case.

PubMed

Moncada, Jonathan; El-Halwagi, Mahmoud M; Cardona, Carlos A

2013-05-01

In this paper a techno-economic analysis for a sugarcane biorefinery is presented for the Colombian case. It is shown two scenarios for different conversion pathways as function of feedstock distribution and technologies for sugar, fuel ethanol, PHB, anthocyanins and electricity production. These scenarios are compared with the Colombian base case which simultaneously produce sugar, fuel ethanol and electricity. A simulation procedure was used in order to evaluate biorefinery schemes for all the scenarios, using Aspen Plus software, that include productivity analysis, energy calculations and economic evaluation for each process configuration. The results showed that the configuration with the best economic, environmental and social performance is the one that considers fuel ethanol and PHB production from combined cane bagasse and molasses. This result served as the basis to draw recommendations on technological and economic feasibility as well as social aspects for the implementation of such type of biorefinery in Colombia. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Growth and resilience of pioneering nonprofit human service organizations: a cross-case analysis of organizational histories.

PubMed

Kimberlin, Sara E; Schwartz, Sara L; Austin, Michael J

2011-01-01

Knowledge of organizational history is important for recognizing patterns in effective management and understanding how organizations respond to internal and external challenges. This cross-case analysis of 12 histories of pioneering nonprofit human service organizations contributes an important longitudinal perspective on organizational history, complementing the cross-sectional case studies that dominate the existing research on nonprofit organizations. The literature on organizational growth, including lifecycle models and growth management, is reviewed, along with the literature on organizational resilience. Based on analysis of the 12 organizational histories, a conceptual model is presented that synthesizes key factors in the areas of leadership, internal operations, and external relations that influence organizational growth and resilience to enable nonprofit organizations to survive and thrive over time. Both cross-sectional and longitudinal examples from the organizational histories illustrate the conceptual map. The paper concludes with a discussion of directions for future research on nonprofit organizational history.

Applying cost accounting to operating room staffing in otolaryngology: time-driven activity-based costing and outpatient adenotonsillectomy.

PubMed

Balakrishnan, Karthik; Goico, Brian; Arjmand, Ellis M

2015-04-01

(1) To describe the application of a detailed cost-accounting method (time-driven activity-cased costing) to operating room personnel costs, avoiding the proxy use of hospital and provider charges. (2) To model potential cost efficiencies using different staffing models with the case study of outpatient adenotonsillectomy. Prospective cost analysis case study. Tertiary pediatric hospital. All otolaryngology providers and otolaryngology operating room staff at our institution. Time-driven activity-based costing demonstrated precise per-case and per-minute calculation of personnel costs. We identified several areas of unused personnel capacity in a basic staffing model. Per-case personnel costs decreased by 23.2% by allowing a surgeon to run 2 operating rooms, despite doubling all other staff. Further cost reductions up to a total of 26.4% were predicted with additional staffing rearrangements. Time-driven activity-based costing allows detailed understanding of not only personnel costs but also how personnel time is used. This in turn allows testing of alternative staffing models to decrease unused personnel capacity and increase efficiency. © American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery Foundation 2015.

Home-Town Values and High Accountability: A Texas Recipe for Districtwide Success in an Urban School District

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Skrla, Linda; McKenzie, Kathryn Bell; Scheurich, James Joseph; Dickerson, Kimberly L.

2011-01-01

This article reports the findings from a case study of urban school district effectiveness taken from a larger, multistate study. The case study district, Galena Park Independent School District in Galena Park, Texas, was chosen for inclusion in the study based on quantitative analysis of student achievement data in Texas. An education production…

Implementing a Quality Management Framework in a Higher Education Organisation: A Case Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

O'Mahony, Kim; Garavan, Thomas N.

2012-01-01

Purpose: This paper aims to report and analyse the lessons learned from a case study on the implementation of a quality management system within an IT Division in a higher education (HE) organisation. Design/methodology/approach: The paper is based on a review of the relevant literatures and the use of primary sources such as document analysis,…

Implementation at the School Building Level: The Development and Analysis of Nine Mini-Case Studies.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hall, Gene; And Others

As part of a district-wide longitudinal study of the implementation of a science curriculum innovation, researchers developed case studies of a sample of nine elementary schools in the Jefferson County School District, a large suburban system in Colorado. The study applied the Concerns-Based Adoption Model, which assumes that change is carried out…

An Application Practice of the IFLA FRBR Model: A Metadata Case Study for the National Palace Museum in Taipei.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chen, Ya-ning; Lin, Simon C.; Chen, Shu-jiun

2002-01-01

Explains the Functional Requirements for Bibliographic Records (FRBR) model which was proposed by the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) as a framework to proceed content-based analysis and developing metadata format. Presents a case study that examines the feasibility of the FRBR model at the National Palace…

Culturally Responsive Peace Education: A Case Study at One Urban Latino K-8 Catholic School

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Buck, Brandon

2016-01-01

This paper presents a case study of a yearlong research-based peace education program at one urban K-8 private Catholic school situated in a community plagued by structural violence in an enclave of a large Midwestern city. To frame the analysis, the author employs concepts central to culturally responsive pedagogy (including cultural competence,…

The Nature of Middle School Mathematics Teachers' Pedagogical Content Knowledge: The Case of The Volume of Prisms

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tekin-Sitrava, Reyhan; Isiksal-Bostan, Mine

2018-01-01

This study investigated middle school teachers' knowledge of students' misconceptions and the sources of these misconceptions related to the volume of prisms. This case study investigated four middle school teachers who taught 8th grade students in Ankara (Turkey). Based on the analysis of the data, two misconceptions related to the volume of…

Violence as a Strategy of the Weak against the Strong: The Case of Siblings.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Feld, Scott L.

This paper considers the case of violence between siblings in the family, and describes findings based on a U.S. national sample that show the relatively frequent use of violence by weaker siblings against more powerful siblings. Analysis and theoretical discussion shows that even though strong actors have greater means for using violence, and…

The Use of Instructional Simulations to Support Classroom Teaching: A Crisis Communication Case Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shifflet, Mark; Brown, Jane

2006-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate how exposure to classroom instruction affected the use of a computer simulation that was designed to provide students an opportunity to apply material presented in class. The study involved an analysis of a computer-based crisis communication case study designed for a college-level public relations…

An Insider Perspective on Implementing the Harvard Case Study Method in Business Teaching

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rebeiz, Karim S.

2011-01-01

This paper provides practical guidance on the implementation of the CSM (case study method) using the HBS (Harvard Business School) model. The analysis is based on the first-hand experience of the author as a user and implementer of this mode of instruction. The results are further validated with surveys given to MBA (Master of Business…

Shear-wave velocity-based probabilistic and deterministic assessment of seismic soil liquefaction potential

USGS Publications Warehouse

Kayen, R.; Moss, R.E.S.; Thompson, E.M.; Seed, R.B.; Cetin, K.O.; Der Kiureghian, A.; Tanaka, Y.; Tokimatsu, K.

2013-01-01

Shear-wave velocity (Vs) offers a means to determine the seismic resistance of soil to liquefaction by a fundamental soil property. This paper presents the results of an 11-year international project to gather new Vs site data and develop probabilistic correlations for seismic soil liquefaction occurrence. Toward that objective, shear-wave velocity test sites were identified, and measurements made for 301 new liquefaction field case histories in China, Japan, Taiwan, Greece, and the United States over a decade. The majority of these new case histories reoccupy those previously investigated by penetration testing. These new data are combined with previously published case histories to build a global catalog of 422 case histories of Vs liquefaction performance. Bayesian regression and structural reliability methods facilitate a probabilistic treatment of the Vs catalog for performance-based engineering applications. Where possible, uncertainties of the variables comprising both the seismic demand and the soil capacity were estimated and included in the analysis, resulting in greatly reduced overall model uncertainty relative to previous studies. The presented data set and probabilistic analysis also help resolve the ancillary issues of adjustment for soil fines content and magnitude scaling factors.

Candida infective endocarditis: an observational cohort study with a focus on therapy.

PubMed

Arnold, Christopher J; Johnson, Melissa; Bayer, Arnold S; Bradley, Suzanne; Giannitsioti, Efthymia; Miró, José M; Tornos, Pilar; Tattevin, Pierre; Strahilevitz, Jacob; Spelman, Denis; Athan, Eugene; Nacinovich, Francisco; Fortes, Claudio Q; Lamas, Cristiane; Barsic, Bruno; Fernández-Hidalgo, Nuria; Muñoz, Patricia; Chu, Vivian H

2015-04-01

Candida infective endocarditis is a rare disease with a high mortality rate. Our understanding of this infection is derived from case series, case reports, and small prospective cohorts. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical features and use of different antifungal treatment regimens for Candida infective endocarditis. This prospective cohort study was based on 70 cases of Candida infective endocarditis from the International Collaboration on Endocarditis (ICE)-Prospective Cohort Study and ICE-Plus databases collected between 2000 and 2010. The majority of infections were acquired nosocomially (67%). Congestive heart failure (24%), prosthetic heart valve (46%), and previous infective endocarditis (26%) were common comorbidities. Overall mortality was high, with 36% mortality in the hospital and 59% at 1 year. On univariate analysis, older age, heart failure at baseline, persistent candidemia, nosocomial acquisition, heart failure as a complication, and intracardiac abscess were associated with higher mortality. Mortality was not affected by use of surgical therapy or choice of antifungal agent. A subgroup analysis was performed on 33 patients for whom specific antifungal therapy information was available. In this subgroup, 11 patients received amphotericin B-based therapy and 14 received echinocandin-based therapy. Despite a higher percentage of older patients and nosocomial infection in the echinocandin group, mortality rates were similar between the two groups. In conclusion, Candida infective endocarditis is associated with a high mortality rate that was not impacted by choice of antifungal therapy or by adjunctive surgical intervention. Additionally, echinocandin therapy was as effective as amphotericin B-based therapy in the small subgroup analysis. Copyright © 2015, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

Candida Infective Endocarditis: an Observational Cohort Study with a Focus on Therapy

PubMed Central

Johnson, Melissa; Bayer, Arnold S.; Bradley, Suzanne; Giannitsioti, Efthymia; Miró, José M.; Tornos, Pilar; Tattevin, Pierre; Strahilevitz, Jacob; Spelman, Denis; Athan, Eugene; Nacinovich, Francisco; Fortes, Claudio Q.; Lamas, Cristiane; Barsic, Bruno; Fernández-Hidalgo, Nuria; Muñoz, Patricia; Chu, Vivian H.

2015-01-01

Candida infective endocarditis is a rare disease with a high mortality rate. Our understanding of this infection is derived from case series, case reports, and small prospective cohorts. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical features and use of different antifungal treatment regimens for Candida infective endocarditis. This prospective cohort study was based on 70 cases of Candida infective endocarditis from the International Collaboration on Endocarditis (ICE)-Prospective Cohort Study and ICE-Plus databases collected between 2000 and 2010. The majority of infections were acquired nosocomially (67%). Congestive heart failure (24%), prosthetic heart valve (46%), and previous infective endocarditis (26%) were common comorbidities. Overall mortality was high, with 36% mortality in the hospital and 59% at 1 year. On univariate analysis, older age, heart failure at baseline, persistent candidemia, nosocomial acquisition, heart failure as a complication, and intracardiac abscess were associated with higher mortality. Mortality was not affected by use of surgical therapy or choice of antifungal agent. A subgroup analysis was performed on 33 patients for whom specific antifungal therapy information was available. In this subgroup, 11 patients received amphotericin B-based therapy and 14 received echinocandin-based therapy. Despite a higher percentage of older patients and nosocomial infection in the echinocandin group, mortality rates were similar between the two groups. In conclusion, Candida infective endocarditis is associated with a high mortality rate that was not impacted by choice of antifungal therapy or by adjunctive surgical intervention. Additionally, echinocandin therapy was as effective as amphotericin B-based therapy in the small subgroup analysis. PMID:25645855

SCANS (Shipping Cask ANalysis System) a microcomputer-based analysis system for shipping cask design review: User`s manual to Version 3a. Volume 1, Revision 2

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

Mok, G.C.; Thomas, G.R.; Gerhard, M.A.

SCANS (Shipping Cask ANalysis System) is a microcomputer-based system of computer programs and databases developed at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) for evaluating safety analysis reports on spent fuel shipping casks. SCANS is an easy-to-use system that calculates the global response to impact loads, pressure loads and thermal conditions, providing reviewers with an independent check on analyses submitted by licensees. SCANS is based on microcomputers compatible with the IBM-PC family of computers. The system is composed of a series of menus, input programs, cask analysis programs, and output display programs. All data is entered through fill-in-the-blank input screens thatmore » contain descriptive data requests. Analysis options are based on regulatory cases described in the Code of Federal Regulations 10 CFR 71 and Regulatory Guides published by the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission in 1977 and 1978.« less

[Influence of trigeminal nerve lesion on facial growth: study of two cases of Goldenhar syndrome].

PubMed

Darris, Pierre; Treil, Jacques; Marchal-Sixou, Christine; Baron, Pascal

2015-06-01

This cases report confirms the hypothesis that embryonic and maxillofacial growth are influenced by the peripheral nervous system, including the trigeminal nerve (V). So, it's interesting to use the stigma of the trigeminal nerve as landmarks to analyze the maxillofacial volume and understand its growth. The aim of this study is to evaluate the validity of the three-dimensional cephalometric analysis of Treil based on trigeminal landmarks. The first case is a caucasian female child with Goldenhar syndrome. The second case is a caucasian male adult affected by the same syndrome. In both cases, brain MRI showed an unilateral trigeminal nerve lesion, ipsilateral to the facial dysmorphia. The results of this radiological study tend to prove the primary role of the trigeminal nerve in craniofacial growth. These cases demonstrate the validity of the theory of Moss. They are one of anatomo-functional justifications of the three-dimensional cephalometric biometry of Treil based on trigeminal nerve landmarks. © EDP Sciences, SFODF, 2015.

A decision model for selecting sustainable drinking water supply and greywater reuse systems for developing communities with a case study in Cimahi, Indonesia.

PubMed

Henriques, Justin J; Louis, Garrick E

2011-01-01

Capacity Factor Analysis is a decision support system for selection of appropriate technologies for municipal sanitation services in developing communities. Developing communities are those that lack the capability to provide adequate access to one or more essential services, such as water and sanitation, to their residents. This research developed two elements of Capacity Factor Analysis: a capacity factor based classification for technologies using requirements analysis, and a matching policy for choosing technology options. First, requirements analysis is used to develop a ranking for drinking water supply and greywater reuse technologies. Second, using the Capacity Factor Analysis approach, a matching policy is developed to guide decision makers in selecting the appropriate drinking water supply or greywater reuse technology option for their community. Finally, a scenario-based informal hypothesis test is developed to assist in qualitative model validation through case study. Capacity Factor Analysis is then applied in Cimahi Indonesia as a form of validation. The completed Capacity Factor Analysis model will allow developing communities to select drinking water supply and greywater reuse systems that are safe, affordable, able to be built and managed by the community using local resources, and are amenable to expansion as the community's management capacity increases. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Analysis of scattering by a linear chain of spherical inclusions in an optical fiber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chremmos, Ioannis D.; Uzunoglu, Nikolaos K.

2006-12-01

The scattering by a linear chain of spherical dielectric inclusions, embedded along the axis of an optical fiber, is analyzed using a rigorous integral equation formulation, based on the dyadic Green's function theory. The coupled electric field integral equations are solved by applying the Galerkin technique with Mie-type expansion of the field inside the spheres in terms of spherical waves. The analysis extends the previously studied case of a single spherical inhomogeneity inside a fiber to the multisphere-scattering case, by utilizing the classic translational addition theorems for spherical waves in order to analytically extract the direct-intersphere-coupling coefficients. Results for the transmitted and reflected power, on incidence of the fundamental HE11 mode, are presented for several cases.

National outbreak of Yersinia enterocolitica infections in military and civilian populations associated with consumption of mixed salad, Norway, 2014.

PubMed

MacDonald, Emily; Einöder-Moreno, Margot; Borgen, Katrine; Thorstensen Brandal, Lin; Diab, Lore; Fossli, Øivind; Guzman Herrador, Bernardo; Hassan, Ammar Ali; Johannessen, Gro S; Johansen, Eva Jeanette; Jørgensen Kimo, Roger; Lier, Tore; Paulsen, Bjørn Leif; Popescu, Rodica; Tokle Schytte, Charlotte; Sæbø Pettersen, Kristin; Vold, Line; Ørmen, Øyvind; Wester, Astrid Louise; Wiklund, Marit; Nygård, Karin

2016-08-25

In May 2014, a cluster of Yersinia enterocolitica (YE) O9 infections was reported from a military base in northern Norway. Concurrently, an increase in YE infections in civilians was observed in the Norwegian Surveillance System for Communicable Diseases. We investigated to ascertain the extent of the outbreak and identify the source in order to implement control measures. A case was defined as a person with laboratory-confirmed YE O9 infection with the outbreak multilocus variable-number tandem repeat analysis (MLVA)-profile (5-6-9-8-9-9). We conducted a case-control study in the military setting and calculated odds ratios (OR) using logistic regression. Traceback investigations were conducted to identify common suppliers and products in commercial kitchens frequented by cases. By 28 May, we identified 133 cases, of which 117 were linked to four military bases and 16 were civilians from geographically dispersed counties. Among foods consumed by cases, multivariable analysis pointed to mixed salad as a potential source of illness (OR 10.26; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.85-123.57). The four military bases and cafeterias visited by 14/16 civilian cases received iceberg lettuce or radicchio rosso from the same supplier. Secondary transmission cannot be eliminated as a source of infection in the military camps. The most likely source of the outbreak was salad mix containing imported radicchio rosso, due to its long shelf life. This outbreak is a reminder that fresh produce should not be discounted as a vehicle in prolonged outbreaks and that improvements are still required in the production and processing of fresh salad products. This article is copyright of The Authors, 2016.

Epinephrine-Induced and Antiapoptotic Signaling in Prostate Cancer

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-05-01

Phosphorylation of ectopically expressed HA-BAD mirrors endogenous BAD phosphorylation, thus analysis of HA-BAD allows adequately interpret modifications...subjected to emotional stress (Fig.2 A). However, more extensive analysis of CREB phosphorylation in C42Luc xenografts showed that in some cases...data indicate that assignment of tumor samples for analysis of signaling pathways should be done based on blood epinephrine measurements. Given

Task Design for Students' Work with Basic Theory in Analysis: The Cases of Multidimensional Differentiability and Curve Integrals

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gravesen, Katrine Frovin; Grønbaek, Niels; Winsløw, Carl

2017-01-01

We investigate the challenges students face in the transition from calculus courses, focusing on methods related to the analysis of real valued functions given in closed form, to more advanced courses on analysis where focus is on theoretical structure, including proof. We do so based on task design aiming for a number of generic potentials for…

Detection of fetal sex chromosome aneuploidy by massively parallel sequencing of maternal plasma DNA: initial experience in a Chinese hospital.

PubMed

Yao, H; Jiang, F; Hu, H; Gao, Y; Zhu, Z; Zhang, H; Wang, Y; Guo, Y; Liu, L; Yuan, Y; Zhou, L; Wang, J; Du, B; Qu, N; Zhang, R; Dong, Y; Xu, H; Chen, F; Jiang, H; Liu, Y; Zhang, L; Tian, Z; Liu, Q; Zhang, C; Pan, X; Yang, S; Zhao, L; Wang, W; Liang, Z

2014-07-01

To evaluate the performance of a massively parallel sequencing (MPS)-based test in detecting fetal sex chromosome aneuploidy (SCA) and to present a comprehensive clinical counseling protocol for SCA-positive patients. This was a retrospective study in a large patient cohort of 5950 singleton pregnancies which underwent MPS-based testing as a prenatal screening test for trisomies 21, 18 and 13, with X and Y chromosomes as secondary findings, in Southwest Hospital in China. MPS-based SCA-positive women were offered the choice of knowing whether their SCA results were positive and those who did commenced a two-stage post-test clinical counseling protocol. In Stage 1, general information about SCA was given, and women were given the option of invasive testing for confirmation of findings; in Stage 2, those who had chosen to undergo invasive testing were informed about the specific SCA affecting their fetus and their management options. Thirty-three cases were classified as SCA-positive by MPS-based testing. After Stage 1 of the two-stage post-test clinical counseling session, 33 (100%) of these pregnant women chose to know the screening test results, and 25 (75.76%) underwent an invasive diagnostic procedure and karyotype analysis, in one of whom karyotyping failed. In thirteen cases, karyotyping confirmed the MPS-based test results (two X0 cases, seven XXX cases, three XXY cases and one XYY case), giving a positive predictive value of 54.17% (13/24 cases confirmed by karyotyping). After post-test clinical counseling session Stage 2, seven women chose to terminate the pregnancy: one X0 case, two XXX cases, the three XXY cases and the single XYY case. Six women decided to continue with pregnancy: one X0 case and five XXX cases. Our study showed the feasibility of clinical application of the MPS-based test in the non-invasive detection of fetal SCA. Together with a two-stage post-test clinical counseling protocol, it leads to a well-informed decision-making procedure. Copyright © 2014 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Two cases of Cokeromyces recurvatus in liquid-based Papanicolaou tests and a review of the literature.

PubMed

Odronic, Shelley I; Scheidemantel, Thomas; Tuohy, Marion J; Chute, Deborah; Procop, Gary W; Booth, Christine N

2012-12-01

We present 2 cases of Cokeromyces recurvatus in routine, liquid-based Papanicolaou tests (ThinPrep). Patient 1 is a healthy, asymptomatic, 26-year-old woman with no pertinent past medical history. Patient 2 is a healthy, asymptomatic, 47-year-old woman with no pertinent past medical history. The Papanicolaou tests from both patients showed many fungal-like elements as globose, yeastlike forms measuring 10 to 30 µm in diameter with multiple, narrowly attached apparent "daughter" buds. This morphology was consistent with Paracoccidioides brasiliensis. However, broad-range fungal polymerase chain reaction and deoxyribonucleic acid sequence analysis performed with GenBank Basic Local Alignment Search Tool showed an exact match for C recurvatus. Our cases highlight the importance of molecular techniques to prevent misdiagnosis of C recurvatus as P brasiliensis, based on morphology alone. There have been 8 previously published cases of C recurvatus infection in humans, 3 of which were reported in the female genital tract.

Comparative Analysis of RF Emission Based Fingerprinting Techniques for ZigBee Device Classification

DTIC Science & Technology

quantify the differences invarious RF fingerprinting techniques via comparative analysis of MDA/ML classification results. The findings herein demonstrate...correct classification rates followed by COR-DNA and then RF-DNA in most test cases and especially in low Eb/N0 ranges, where ZigBee is designed to operate.

Unpacking the Narrative of Non-Positional Leadership in Academia: Hero and/or Victim?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Juntrasook, Adisorn; Nairn, Karen; Bond, Carol; Spronken-Smith, Rachel

2013-01-01

This article, based on narrative inquiry, explores how academics with/out formal leadership positions experience and understand themselves as leaders in their everyday working contexts. A single case of a fixed-term academic was chosen to illustrate how different analytical lenses -- "plot analysis" and "discourse analysis" --…

Analyzing the Responses of 7-8 Year Olds When Solving Partitioning Problems

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Badillo, Edelmira; Font, Vicenç; Edo, Mequè

2015-01-01

We analyze the mathematical solutions of 7- to 8-year-old pupils while individually solving an arithmetic problem. The analysis was based on the "configuration of objects," an instrument derived from the onto-semiotic approach to mathematical knowledge. Results are illustrated through a number of cases. From the analysis of mathematical…

77 FR 4638 - Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement; Performance-Based Payments (DFARS Case 2011-D045)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-01-30

... tool. The PBP analysis tool is a cash-flow model for evaluating alternative financing arrangements, and... PBP analysis tool is a cash-flow model for evaluating alternative financing arrangements, and is... that reflects adequate consideration to the Government for the improved contractor cash flow...

APT Blanket System Loss-of-Coolant Accident (LOCA) Analysis Based on Initial Conceptual Design - Case 3: External HR Break at Pump Outlet without Pump Trip

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

Hamm, L.L.

1998-10-07

This report is one of a series of reports that document normal operation and accident simulations for the Accelerator Production of Tritium (APT) blanket heat removal (HR) system. These simulations were performed for the Preliminary Safety Analysis Report.

Extended Attribute Constructions in German Radio Newscasts: Analysis and Implications

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wipf, Joseph

2004-01-01

Although a number of word-frequency lists exist in German, there is an absence of studies investigating the relative frequency with which various grammatical structures are used. Traditionally, extended modifiers have been most prevalent in written German. Based on an analysis of authentic radio news broadcasts, this article makes the case that…

Workplace Learning: A Trade Union Failure to Service Needs

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stroud, Dean; Fairbrother, Peter

2008-01-01

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to open up discussion about the relationship between trade unions and workplace learning. Design/methodology/approach: The paper is based on an analysis of a series of case-studies of restructuring in the European steel industry, incorporating interviews, observation and documentary analysis. Findings: The…

A Student's Construction of Transformations of Functions in a Multiple Representational Environment.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Borba, Marcelo C.; Confrey, Jere

1996-01-01

Reports on a case study of a 16-year-old student working on transformations of functions in a computer-based, multirepresentational environment. Presents an analysis of the work during the transition from the use of visualization and analysis of discrete points to the use of algebraic symbolism. (AIM)

Case-Exercises, Diagnosis, and Explanations in a Knowledge Based Tutoring System for Project Planning.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pulz, Michael; Lusti, Markus

PROJECTTUTOR is an intelligent tutoring system that enhances conventional classroom instruction by teaching problem solving in project planning. The domain knowledge covered by the expert module is divided into three functions. Structural analysis, identifies the activities that make up the project, time analysis, computes the earliest and latest…

Organic Farming, Gender, and the Labor Process

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hall, Alan; Mogyorody, Veronika

2007-01-01

This paper seeks to explain variations in gender participation in farm production and decision-making through an analysis of organic farm types, sizes, and orientations. Based on both survey and case study data, the analysis shows that female farmers on vegetable farms and mixed livestock/cash crop farms are more likely to be involved in farm…

Development of critical attitude in fundamentals of professional care discipline: a case study.

PubMed

Waterkemper, Roberta; do Prado, Marta Lenise; Medina, Jose Luis Moya; Reibnitz, Kenya Schmidt

2014-04-01

This is a qualitative case study to identify the contributions of a critical pedagogical technique in developing critical attitudes of graduating nursing students in Brazil. Fourteen students participated in this study. Data were collected from March to August 2010 using triangulation of non-participant observation, interview and document analysis. The collected data were transcribed to Word documents, which were subsequently imported into ATLAS.ti, version 6.2, for organisation and qualitative data analysis. The analysis was based on the work of Minayo (2010). The following three thematic analysis units were constructed: feeling free - seeking the liberty to learn to admire, admiring by curiosity and reflecting about the admired object. The results of the thematic categories reveal that the students understand that they are free to have an active role in their education, and the teacher facilitates this process; thus, the students have a raison d'ètre, or reason for being, free. Feeling free, the student can exercise their curiosity when facing the given situations and topics, which challenges them to make decisions based on their awareness of the world. © 2013.

[Multifocal tubulopapillary tumors of the kidney. Morphologic features and prognosis. Three cases].

PubMed

Abdelmoula, N B; Boudawara, T; Bahloul, A; Hmida, M B; Hachicha, J; Rebai, T; Mhiri, N; Jlidi, R

1999-01-01

Tubulopapillary tumors of the kidney represent a particular group of renal tumors characterized by their less aggressive behavior. These tumors are distinguished from non papillary tumors by their morphologic, cytochemical and genotypic features. They correspond to a continuous spectrum of tumors ranging from papillary renal cell adenoma to papillary renal cell carcinoma. These TTPR show multifocal, bilateral development and chronic lesions of the kidney parenchyma in nearly all cases. The authors report three cases of multifocal TTPR, including one bilateral case. Based on analysis of these cases and a review of the literature, they discuss the histogenetic features and prognosis of TTPR.

Tailored multivariate analysis for modulated enhanced diffraction

DOE PAGES

Caliandro, Rocco; Guccione, Pietro; Nico, Giovanni; ...

2015-10-21

Modulated enhanced diffraction (MED) is a technique allowing the dynamic structural characterization of crystalline materials subjected to an external stimulus, which is particularly suited forin situandoperandostructural investigations at synchrotron sources. Contributions from the (active) part of the crystal system that varies synchronously with the stimulus can be extracted by an offline analysis, which can only be applied in the case of periodic stimuli and linear system responses. In this paper a new decomposition approach based on multivariate analysis is proposed. The standard principal component analysis (PCA) is adapted to treat MED data: specific figures of merit based on their scoresmore » and loadings are found, and the directions of the principal components obtained by PCA are modified to maximize such figures of merit. As a result, a general method to decompose MED data, called optimum constrained components rotation (OCCR), is developed, which produces very precise results on simulated data, even in the case of nonperiodic stimuli and/or nonlinear responses. Furthermore, the multivariate analysis approach is able to supply in one shot both the diffraction pattern related to the active atoms (through the OCCR loadings) and the time dependence of the system response (through the OCCR scores). Furthermore, when applied to real data, OCCR was able to supply only the latter information, as the former was hindered by changes in abundances of different crystal phases, which occurred besides structural variations in the specific case considered. In order to develop a decomposition procedure able to cope with this combined effect represents the next challenge in MED analysis.« less

Creating A Data Base For Design Of An Impeller

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Prueger, George H.; Chen, Wei-Chung

1993-01-01

Report describes use of Taguchi method of parametric design to create data base facilitating optimization of design of impeller in centrifugal pump. Data base enables systematic design analysis covering all significant design parameters. Reduces time and cost of parametric optimization of design: for particular impeller considered, one can cover 4,374 designs by computational simulations of performance for only 18 cases.

Air Force Nuclear Enterprise Organization: A Case Study

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-09-15

will improve the performance of the AFNE. Based on analysis of commercial and industrial business models, what organizational structure , or...Business Dictionary 2015). Organizational structures will be developed based on decisions made with regards to design. The core of an...work flows. Based on design parameter decisions, senior leaders will establish an organizational structure that includes the layout of the

Acousto-ultrasonics to Assess Material and Structural Properties

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kautz, Harold E.

2002-01-01

This report was created to serve as a manual for applying the Acousto-Ultrasonic NDE method, as practiced at NASA Glenn, to the study of materials and structures for a wide range of applications. Three state of the art acousto-ultrasonic (A-U) analysis parameters, ultrasonic decay (UD) rate, mean time (or skewing factor, "s"), and the centroid of the power spectrum, "f(sub c)," have been studied and applied at GRC for NDE interrogation of various materials and structures of aerospace interest. In addition to this, a unique application of Lamb wave analysis is shown. An appendix gives a brief overview of Lamb Wave analysis. This paper presents the analysis employed to calculate these parameters and the development and reasoning behind their use. It also discusses the planning of A-U measurements for materials and structures to be studied. Types of transducer coupling are discussed including contact and non-contact via laser and air. Experimental planning includes matching transducer frequency range to material and geometry of the specimen to be studied. The effect on results of initially zeroing the DC component of the ultrasonic waveform is compared with not doing so. A wide range of interrogation problems are addressed via the application of these analysis parameters to real specimens is shown for five cases: Case 1: Differences in density in [0] SiC/RBSN ceramic matrix composite. Case 2: Effect of tensile fatigue cycling in [+/-45] SiC/SiC ceramic matrix composite. Case 3: Detecting creep life, and failure, in Udimet 520 Nickel-Based Super Alloy. Case 4: Detecting Surface Layer Formation in T-650-35/PMR-15 Polymer Matrix Composites Panels due to Thermal Aging. Case 5: Detecting Spin Test Degradation in PMC Flywheels. Among these cases a wide range of materials and geometries are studied.

Striving towards efficiency in the Greek hospitals by reviewing case mix classifications.

PubMed

Polyzos, Nicholas M

2002-09-01

In order to verify the efficiency level of Greek public hospitals, this paper evaluates the most recent indicators. Relevant data were collected from the two following databases: (a) hospitals' utilisation data generally and per clinical speciality [Ministry of Health, Athens, (Data based) 1995]; (b) Patients' and hospitals' characteristics per diagnosis [National Statistical Office, Athens, (Data based) 1993]. As explanatory variables, the study examines supply and demand factors following case mix classifications. Firstly, average length of stay (ALOS) and secondly, cost per case were regressed as dependent variables. The study highlights the extent of variability across hospitals for different groups of patients with the same condition. The results specify the most important factors that affect ALOS and cost pertaining to efficiency. Per speciality analysis shows occupancy, size-type of the hospital, beds and doctors per speciality, access and use of outpatient services, and surgical operations, etc. as the most significant factors. Per disease-diagnosis analysis shows age of over 65 years, gender, residence, marital status, surgical operation and insurance as the most important factors. General cost analysis in all National Health Systems (NHS) hospitals shows that economies of scale appear in: (a) district and/or specialised hospitals of 250-400 beds; (b) regional and/or teaching hospitals of over but near to 400 beds. Consequently, the author determines the 'Greek' Diagnostic Related Groups (DRGs), based on the cost per clinical speciality in the nine basic specialities and on the cost per diagnosis of the top 15 diagnoses. Further to the scientific results, such studies will enhance much necessary discussions on the organisation of service delivery and financing, by following case mix classification. Copyright 2002 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd.

Cost-effectiveness of orthoptic screening in kindergarten: a decision-analytic model.

PubMed

König, H H; Barry, J C; Leidl, R; Zrenner, E

2000-06-01

The purpose of this study was to analyze the cost-effectiveness of orthoptic screening for amblyopia in kindergarten. A decision-analytic model was used. In this model all kindergarten children in Germany aged 3 years were examined by an orthoptist. Children with positive screening results were referred to an ophthalmologist for diagnosis. The number of newly diagnosed cases of amblyopia, amblyogenic non-obvious strabismus and amblyogenic refractive errors was used as the measure of effectiveness. Direct costs were measured form a third-party payer perspective. Data for model parameters were obtained from the literature and from own measurements in kindergartens. A base analysis was performed using median parameter values. The influence of uncertain parameters was tested in sensitivity analyses. According to the base analysis, the cost of one orthoptic screening test was 7.87 euro. One ophthalmologic examination cost 36.40 euro. The total cost of the screening program in all kindergartens was 3.1 million euro. A total of 4,261 new cases would be detected. The cost-effectiveness ratio was 727 euro per case detected. Sensitivity analysis showed considerable influence of the prevalence rate of target conditions and of the specificity of the orthopic examination on the cost-effectiveness ratio. This analysis provides information which is useful for discussion about the implementation of orthoptic screening and for planning a field study.

Hybrid-Wing-Body Vehicle Composite Fuselage Analysis and Case Study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mukhopadhyay, Vivek

2014-01-01

Recent progress in the structural analysis of a Hybrid Wing-Body (HWB) fuselage concept is presented with the objective of structural weight reduction under a set of critical design loads. This pressurized efficient HWB fuselage design is presently being investigated by the NASA Environmentally Responsible Aviation (ERA) project in collaboration with the Boeing Company, Huntington Beach. The Pultruded Rod-Stiffened Efficient Unitized Structure (PRSEUS) composite concept, developed at the Boeing Company, is approximately modeled for an analytical study and finite element analysis. Stiffened plate linear theories are employed for a parametric case study. Maximum deflection and stress levels are obtained with appropriate assumptions for a set of feasible stiffened panel configurations. An analytical parametric case study is presented to examine the effects of discrete stiffener spacing and skin thickness on structural weight, deflection and stress. A finite-element model (FEM) of an integrated fuselage section with bulkhead is developed for an independent assessment. Stress analysis and scenario based case studies are conducted for design improvement. The FEM model specific weight of the improved fuselage concept is computed and compared to previous studies, in order to assess the relative weight/strength advantages of this advanced composite airframe technology

[Survival of patients with primary central nervous system diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: impact of gene aberrations and protein overexpression of bcl-2 and C-MYC, and selection of chemotherapy regimens].

PubMed

Yin, W J; Zhu, X; Yang, H Y; Sun, W Y; Wu, M J

2018-01-08

Objective: To investigate the impact of clinicopathological features, gene rearrangements and protein expression of bcl-6, bcl-2, C-MYC and chemotherapy regime on the prognosis of patients with primary central nervous system diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (PCNS-DLBCL). Methods: Thirty-three cases of PCNS-DLBCL diagnosed from January 2006 to December 2016 at Zhejiang Cancer Hospital were collected. The expression of CD10, bcl-6, bcl-2, MUM1 and MYC were detected by immunohistochemical staining (IHC). The presence of EB virus was detected by in situ hybridization(EBER). Copy number variation (ICN) and translocation status of bcl-6, bcl-2 and C-MYC genes were detected by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). The relationship between the above indexes and the prognosis was analyzed by univariate, bivariate survival analysis and multiple Cox hazard regression analysis. Results: The study included 33 patients of PCNS-DLBCL, without evidence of primary or secondary immunodeficient disease. Male to female ratio was 1.36∶1.00, and the average age was 56 years. Twenty cases had single lesion while 13 had multiple lesions. Deep brain involvement was seen in 12 cases. All patients underwent partial or total tumor resection. Five patients received whole brain post-surgery radiotherapy, nine patients received high-dose methotrexate (HD-MTX) based chemotherapy, and 12 patients received whole-brain radiotherapy combined with HD-MTX based chemotherapy. Severn patients received no further treatment and rituximab was used in 8 patients. According to the Hans model, 27 cases were classified as non-GCB subtypes (81.8%). Bcl-2 was positive in 25 cases (75.8%, 25/33) and highly expressed in 8 (24.2%). MYC was positive in 12 cases (36.4%) and double expression of bcl-2 and MYC was seen in 6 cases. EBER positive rate was 10.0%(3/30), all of which had multiple lesions. Two bcl-6 gene translocations and 3 amplifications were found in 28 patients. Two translocations, 3 ICN or with both bcl-2 gene translocation and ICN were found in 30 patients. Four ICNs of C-MYC gene were found in 28 patients. Elevated protein in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was found in 13 patients. LDH increased in 10 cases. Follow-up period was 2-90 months with the average survival time of (23.0±3.7) months and two-year survival rate of 39.0%. Univariate survival analysis showed that overexpression of bcl-2 protein (≥70%) and MYC protein (≥40%), bcl-2 gene abnormality (including copy number increase and translocation), C-MYC gene copy number increased were adverse factors for survival. C-MYC/ bcl-2 gene double hit was seen in 2 cases. Bivariate survival analysis found that of bcl-2/MYC protein double expression and bcl-2 and C-MYC genes double aberration were significantly associated with adverse outcomes. Cox multivariate risk regression analysis found that gender, cerebrospinal fluid protein increasing, and ICN of C-MYC gene were independent poor prognostic factors. DH-MTX based comprehensive chemotherapy was associated with better prognosis. Conclusions: Double hit at genomic level (copy number variations and gene rearrangements) and double protein expression of bcl-2 and C-MYC in PCNS-DLBCL are significantly associated with an adverse outcome. DH-MTX based comprehensive treatment may prolong the patient survival.

Proposal for a new risk stratification classification for meningioma based on patient age, WHO tumor grade, size, localization, and karyotype

PubMed Central

Domingues, Patrícia Henriques; Sousa, Pablo; Otero, Álvaro; Gonçalves, Jesus Maria; Ruiz, Laura; de Oliveira, Catarina; Lopes, Maria Celeste; Orfao, Alberto; Tabernero, Maria Dolores

2014-01-01

Background Tumor recurrence remains the major clinical complication of meningiomas, the majority of recurrences occurring among WHO grade I/benign tumors. In the present study, we propose a new scoring system for the prognostic stratification of meningioma patients based on analysis of a large series of meningiomas followed for a median of >5 years. Methods Tumor cytogenetics were systematically investigated by interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization in 302 meningioma samples, and the proposed classification was further validated in an independent series of cases (n = 132) analyzed by high-density (500K) single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) arrays. Results Overall, we found an adverse impact on patient relapse-free survival (RFS) for males, presence of brain edema, younger patients (<55 years), tumor size >50 mm, tumor localization at intraventricular and anterior cranial base areas, WHO grade II/III meningiomas, and complex karyotypes; the latter 5 variables showed an independent predictive value in multivariate analysis. Based on these parameters, a prognostic score was established for each individual case, and patients were stratified into 4 risk categories with significantly different (P < .001) outcomes. These included a good prognosis group, consisting of approximately 20% of cases, that showed a RFS of 100% ± 0% at 10 years and a very poor-prognosis group with a RFS rate of 0% ± 0% at 10 years. The prognostic impact of the scoring system proposed here was also retained when WHO grade I cases were considered separately (P < .001). Conclusions Based on this risk-stratification classification, different strategies may be adopted for follow-up, and eventually also for treatment, of meningioma patients at different risks for relapse. PMID:24536048

A modeled economic analysis of a digital tele-ophthalmology system as used by three federal health care agencies for detecting proliferative diabetic retinopathy.

PubMed

Whited, John D; Datta, Santanu K; Aiello, Lloyd M; Aiello, Lloyd P; Cavallerano, Jerry D; Conlin, Paul R; Horton, Mark B; Vigersky, Robert A; Poropatich, Ronald K; Challa, Pratap; Darkins, Adam W; Bursell, Sven-Erik

2005-12-01

The objective of this study was to compare, using a 12-month time frame, the cost-effectiveness of a non-mydriatic digital tele-ophthalmology system (Joslin Vision Network) versus traditional clinic-based ophthalmoscopy examinations with pupil dilation to detect proliferative diabetic retinopathy and its consequences. Decision analysis techniques, including Monte Carlo simulation, were used to model the use of the Joslin Vision Network versus conventional clinic-based ophthalmoscopy among the entire diabetic populations served by the Indian Health Service, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and the active duty Department of Defense. The economic perspective analyzed was that of each federal agency. Data sources for costs and outcomes included the published literature, epidemiologic data, administrative data, market prices, and expert opinion. Outcome measures included the number of true positive cases of proliferative diabetic retinopathy detected, the number of patients treated with panretinal laser photocoagulation, and the number of cases of severe vision loss averted. In the base-case analyses, the Joslin Vision Network was the dominant strategy in all but two of the nine modeled scenarios, meaning that it was both less costly and more effective. In the active duty Department of Defense population, the Joslin Vision Network would be more effective but cost an extra 1,618 dollars per additional patient treated with panretinal laser photo-coagulation and an additional 13,748 dollars per severe vision loss event averted. Based on our economic model, the Joslin Vision Network has the potential to be more effective than clinic-based ophthalmoscopy for detecting proliferative diabetic retinopathy and averting cases of severe vision loss, and may do so at lower cost.

A Case of Error Disclosure: A Communication Privacy Management Analysis

PubMed Central

Petronio, Sandra; Helft, Paul R.; Child, Jeffrey T.

2013-01-01

To better understand the process of disclosing medical errors to patients, this research offers a case analysis using Petronios’s theoretical frame of Communication Privacy Management (CPM). Given the resistance clinicians often feel about error disclosure, insights into the way choices are made by the clinicians in telling patients about the mistake has the potential to address reasons for resistance. Applying the evidenced-based CPM theory, developed over the last 35 years and dedicated to studying disclosure phenomenon, to disclosing medical mistakes potentially has the ability to reshape thinking about the error disclosure process. Using a composite case representing a surgical mistake, analysis based on CPM theory is offered to gain insights into conversational routines and disclosure management choices of revealing a medical error. The results of this analysis show that an underlying assumption of health information ownership by the patient and family can be at odds with the way the clinician tends to control disclosure about the error. In addition, the case analysis illustrates that there are embedded patterns of disclosure that emerge out of conversations the clinician has with the patient and the patient’s family members. These patterns unfold privacy management decisions on the part of the clinician that impact how the patient is told about the error and the way that patients interpret the meaning of the disclosure. These findings suggest the need for a better understanding of how patients manage their private health information in relationship to their expectations for the way they see the clinician caring for or controlling their health information about errors. Significance for public health Much of the mission central to public health sits squarely on the ability to communicate effectively. This case analysis offers an in-depth assessment of how error disclosure is complicated by misunderstandings, assuming ownership and control over information, unwittingly following conversational scripts that convey misleading messages, and the difficulty in regulating privacy boundaries in the stressful circumstances that occur with error disclosures. As a consequence, the potential contribution to public health is the ability to more clearly see the significance of the disclosure process that has implications for many public health issues. PMID:25170501

Ownership reform and the changing manufacturing landscape in Chinese cities: The case of Wuxi.

PubMed

Zhou, Lei; Yang, Shan; Wang, Shuguang; Xiong, Liyang

2017-01-01

Since the economic transition, manufacturing in China has undergone profound changes not only in number of enterprises, but also in ownership structure and intra-urban spatial distribution. Investigating the changing manufacturing landscape from the perspective of ownership structure is critical to a deep understanding of the changing role of market and government in re-shaping manufacturing location behavior. Through a case study of Wuxi, a city experiencing comprehensive ownership reform, this paper presents a detailed analysis of the intra-urban spatial shift of manufacturing, identifies the location discrepancies, and examines the underlying forces responsible for the geographical differentiations. Through zone- and district-based analysis, a distinctive trend of decentralization and suburbanization, as well as an uneven distribution of manufacturing, is unveiled. The results of Location Quotient analysis show that the distribution of manufacturing by ownership exhibits distinctive spatial patterns, which is characterized by a historically-based, market-led, and institutionally-created spatial variation. By employing Hot Spot analysis, the role of development zones in attracting manufacturing enterprises of different ownerships is established. Overall, the location behavior of the diversified manufacturing has been increasingly based on the forces of market since the land marketization began. A proactive role played by local governments has also guided the enterprise location decision through spatial planning and regulatory policies.

Ownership reform and the changing manufacturing landscape in Chinese cities: The case of Wuxi

PubMed Central

Zhou, Lei; Yang, Shan; Wang, Shuguang

2017-01-01

Since the economic transition, manufacturing in China has undergone profound changes not only in number of enterprises, but also in ownership structure and intra-urban spatial distribution. Investigating the changing manufacturing landscape from the perspective of ownership structure is critical to a deep understanding of the changing role of market and government in re-shaping manufacturing location behavior. Through a case study of Wuxi, a city experiencing comprehensive ownership reform, this paper presents a detailed analysis of the intra-urban spatial shift of manufacturing, identifies the location discrepancies, and examines the underlying forces responsible for the geographical differentiations. Through zone- and district-based analysis, a distinctive trend of decentralization and suburbanization, as well as an uneven distribution of manufacturing, is unveiled. The results of Location Quotient analysis show that the distribution of manufacturing by ownership exhibits distinctive spatial patterns, which is characterized by a historically-based, market-led, and institutionally-created spatial variation. By employing Hot Spot analysis, the role of development zones in attracting manufacturing enterprises of different ownerships is established. Overall, the location behavior of the diversified manufacturing has been increasingly based on the forces of market since the land marketization began. A proactive role played by local governments has also guided the enterprise location decision through spatial planning and regulatory policies. PMID:28278284

Failure mode effect analysis and fault tree analysis as a combined methodology in risk management

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wessiani, N. A.; Yoshio, F.

2018-04-01

There have been many studies reported the implementation of Failure Mode Effect Analysis (FMEA) and Fault Tree Analysis (FTA) as a method in risk management. However, most of the studies usually only choose one of these two methods in their risk management methodology. On the other side, combining these two methods will reduce the drawbacks of each methods when implemented separately. This paper aims to combine the methodology of FMEA and FTA in assessing risk. A case study in the metal company will illustrate how this methodology can be implemented. In the case study, this combined methodology will assess the internal risks that occur in the production process. Further, those internal risks should be mitigated based on their level of risks.

Linear stability analysis of detonations via numerical computation and dynamic mode decomposition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kabanov, Dmitry I.; Kasimov, Aslan R.

2018-03-01

We introduce a new method to investigate linear stability of gaseous detonations that is based on an accurate shock-fitting numerical integration of the linearized reactive Euler equations with a subsequent analysis of the computed solution via the dynamic mode decomposition. The method is applied to the detonation models based on both the standard one-step Arrhenius kinetics and two-step exothermic-endothermic reaction kinetics. Stability spectra for all cases are computed and analyzed. The new approach is shown to be a viable alternative to the traditional normal-mode analysis used in detonation theory.

Variance-Based Sensitivity Analysis to Support Simulation-Based Design Under Uncertainty

DOE PAGES

Opgenoord, Max M. J.; Allaire, Douglas L.; Willcox, Karen E.

2016-09-12

Sensitivity analysis plays a critical role in quantifying uncertainty in the design of engineering systems. A variance-based global sensitivity analysis is often used to rank the importance of input factors, based on their contribution to the variance of the output quantity of interest. However, this analysis assumes that all input variability can be reduced to zero, which is typically not the case in a design setting. Distributional sensitivity analysis (DSA) instead treats the uncertainty reduction in the inputs as a random variable, and defines a variance-based sensitivity index function that characterizes the relative contribution to the output variance as amore » function of the amount of uncertainty reduction. This paper develops a computationally efficient implementation for the DSA formulation and extends it to include distributions commonly used in engineering design under uncertainty. Application of the DSA method to the conceptual design of a commercial jetliner demonstrates how the sensitivity analysis provides valuable information to designers and decision-makers on where and how to target uncertainty reduction efforts.« less

Variance-Based Sensitivity Analysis to Support Simulation-Based Design Under Uncertainty

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

Opgenoord, Max M. J.; Allaire, Douglas L.; Willcox, Karen E.

Sensitivity analysis plays a critical role in quantifying uncertainty in the design of engineering systems. A variance-based global sensitivity analysis is often used to rank the importance of input factors, based on their contribution to the variance of the output quantity of interest. However, this analysis assumes that all input variability can be reduced to zero, which is typically not the case in a design setting. Distributional sensitivity analysis (DSA) instead treats the uncertainty reduction in the inputs as a random variable, and defines a variance-based sensitivity index function that characterizes the relative contribution to the output variance as amore » function of the amount of uncertainty reduction. This paper develops a computationally efficient implementation for the DSA formulation and extends it to include distributions commonly used in engineering design under uncertainty. Application of the DSA method to the conceptual design of a commercial jetliner demonstrates how the sensitivity analysis provides valuable information to designers and decision-makers on where and how to target uncertainty reduction efforts.« less

Open Reading Frame Phylogenetic Analysis on the Cloud

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Phylogenetic analysis has become essential in researching the evolutionary relationships between viruses. These relationships are depicted on phylogenetic trees, in which viruses are grouped based on sequence similarity. Viral evolutionary relationships are identified from open reading frames rather than from complete sequences. Recently, cloud computing has become popular for developing internet-based bioinformatics tools. Biocloud is an efficient, scalable, and robust bioinformatics computing service. In this paper, we propose a cloud-based open reading frame phylogenetic analysis service. The proposed service integrates the Hadoop framework, virtualization technology, and phylogenetic analysis methods to provide a high-availability, large-scale bioservice. In a case study, we analyze the phylogenetic relationships among Norovirus. Evolutionary relationships are elucidated by aligning different open reading frame sequences. The proposed platform correctly identifies the evolutionary relationships between members of Norovirus. PMID:23671843

Integrated computer-aided forensic case analysis, presentation, and documentation based on multimodal 3D data.

PubMed

Bornik, Alexander; Urschler, Martin; Schmalstieg, Dieter; Bischof, Horst; Krauskopf, Astrid; Schwark, Thorsten; Scheurer, Eva; Yen, Kathrin

2018-06-01

Three-dimensional (3D) crime scene documentation using 3D scanners and medical imaging modalities like computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are increasingly applied in forensic casework. Together with digital photography, these modalities enable comprehensive and non-invasive recording of forensically relevant information regarding injuries/pathologies inside the body and on its surface. Furthermore, it is possible to capture traces and items at crime scenes. Such digitally secured evidence has the potential to similarly increase case understanding by forensic experts and non-experts in court. Unlike photographs and 3D surface models, images from CT and MRI are not self-explanatory. Their interpretation and understanding requires radiological knowledge. Findings in tomography data must not only be revealed, but should also be jointly studied with all the 2D and 3D data available in order to clarify spatial interrelations and to optimally exploit the data at hand. This is technically challenging due to the heterogeneous data representations including volumetric data, polygonal 3D models, and images. This paper presents a novel computer-aided forensic toolbox providing tools to support the analysis, documentation, annotation, and illustration of forensic cases using heterogeneous digital data. Conjoint visualization of data from different modalities in their native form and efficient tools to visually extract and emphasize findings help experts to reveal unrecognized correlations and thereby enhance their case understanding. Moreover, the 3D case illustrations created for case analysis represent an efficient means to convey the insights gained from case analysis to forensic non-experts involved in court proceedings like jurists and laymen. The capability of the presented approach in the context of case analysis, its potential to speed up legal procedures and to ultimately enhance legal certainty is demonstrated by introducing a number of representative forensic cases. Copyright © 2018 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Remote sensing and GIS-based landslide hazard analysis and cross-validation using multivariate logistic regression model on three test areas in Malaysia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pradhan, Biswajeet

2010-05-01

This paper presents the results of the cross-validation of a multivariate logistic regression model using remote sensing data and GIS for landslide hazard analysis on the Penang, Cameron, and Selangor areas in Malaysia. Landslide locations in the study areas were identified by interpreting aerial photographs and satellite images, supported by field surveys. SPOT 5 and Landsat TM satellite imagery were used to map landcover and vegetation index, respectively. Maps of topography, soil type, lineaments and land cover were constructed from the spatial datasets. Ten factors which influence landslide occurrence, i.e., slope, aspect, curvature, distance from drainage, lithology, distance from lineaments, soil type, landcover, rainfall precipitation, and normalized difference vegetation index (ndvi), were extracted from the spatial database and the logistic regression coefficient of each factor was computed. Then the landslide hazard was analysed using the multivariate logistic regression coefficients derived not only from the data for the respective area but also using the logistic regression coefficients calculated from each of the other two areas (nine hazard maps in all) as a cross-validation of the model. For verification of the model, the results of the analyses were then compared with the field-verified landslide locations. Among the three cases of the application of logistic regression coefficient in the same study area, the case of Selangor based on the Selangor logistic regression coefficients showed the highest accuracy (94%), where as Penang based on the Penang coefficients showed the lowest accuracy (86%). Similarly, among the six cases from the cross application of logistic regression coefficient in other two areas, the case of Selangor based on logistic coefficient of Cameron showed highest (90%) prediction accuracy where as the case of Penang based on the Selangor logistic regression coefficients showed the lowest accuracy (79%). Qualitatively, the cross application model yields reasonable results which can be used for preliminary landslide hazard mapping.

Risk Factors Analysis and Death Prediction in Some Life-Threatening Ailments Using Chi-Square Case-Based Reasoning (χ2 CBR) Model.

PubMed

Adeniyi, D A; Wei, Z; Yang, Y

2018-01-30

A wealth of data are available within the health care system, however, effective analysis tools for exploring the hidden patterns in these datasets are lacking. To alleviate this limitation, this paper proposes a simple but promising hybrid predictive model by suitably combining the Chi-square distance measurement with case-based reasoning technique. The study presents the realization of an automated risk calculator and death prediction in some life-threatening ailments using Chi-square case-based reasoning (χ 2 CBR) model. The proposed predictive engine is capable of reducing runtime and speeds up execution process through the use of critical χ 2 distribution value. This work also showcases the development of a novel feature selection method referred to as frequent item based rule (FIBR) method. This FIBR method is used for selecting the best feature for the proposed χ 2 CBR model at the preprocessing stage of the predictive procedures. The implementation of the proposed risk calculator is achieved through the use of an in-house developed PHP program experimented with XAMP/Apache HTTP server as hosting server. The process of data acquisition and case-based development is implemented using the MySQL application. Performance comparison between our system, the NBY, the ED-KNN, the ANN, the SVM, the Random Forest and the traditional CBR techniques shows that the quality of predictions produced by our system outperformed the baseline methods studied. The result of our experiment shows that the precision rate and predictive quality of our system in most cases are equal to or greater than 70%. Our result also shows that the proposed system executes faster than the baseline methods studied. Therefore, the proposed risk calculator is capable of providing useful, consistent, faster, accurate and efficient risk level prediction to both the patients and the physicians at any time, online and on a real-time basis.

Finding Value in Surgical Didactics: Longitudinal Resident Feedback From Case-Based and Traditional Lectures in an Orthopaedic Residency.

PubMed

Barnwell, Jonathan C; Halvorson, Jason J; Teasdall, Robert D; Carroll, Eben A

To evaluate orthopedic resident perceptions of a didactic curriculum presented in traditional and case-based formats. Prospective cohort study using anonymous web-based survey after each conference evaluating resident perceptions of faculty participation, didactic delivery, content, and overall conference value. Conferences were structured as primarily case-based or traditional lecture. Logistic analysis was performed to determine factors predictive of rating a conference as valuable time spent. Orthopedic residency training program at single institution over an academic year. Orthopedic residents in postgraduate training year 1 to 5 attending mandatory didactic conference. Cased-based conferences received higher Likert ratings on residents' perception of faculty participation, instructor delivery, and improvement in topic understanding when compared to traditional lecture-based conferences (p < 0.0001 for each factor). Residents also were more likely to rate case-based conferences as valuable time spent (p < 0.0001). In our logistic model, factors associated with a negative likelihood of rating a conference as valuable were lecture format (odds ratio [OR] = 0.155, 95% CI: 0.115-0.208), PGY-2 level presenter (OR = 0.288, 95% CI: 0.169-0.490), and PGY-3 level presenter (OR = 0.433, 95% CI: 0.269-0.696). Timing in the year, surgical subspeciality, and conference identity were not significant predictors of conference value rating. Longitudinal resident feedback demonstrates highly favorable resident perceptions toward case-based formats in didactic sessions. Junior levels residents are not perceived as effective as senior residents and faculty in presenting material in either format. These methods allow for a dynamic approach to identifying strengths and weaknesses in a resident curriculum as a well as a means for more focused and real-time improvements. Copyright © 2016 Association of Program Directors in Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Dynamic Stability Analysis of Linear Time-varying Systems via an Extended Modal Identification Approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Zhisai; Liu, Li; Zhou, Sida; Naets, Frank; Heylen, Ward; Desmet, Wim

2017-03-01

The problem of linear time-varying(LTV) system modal analysis is considered based on time-dependent state space representations, as classical modal analysis of linear time-invariant systems and current LTV system modal analysis under the "frozen-time" assumption are not able to determine the dynamic stability of LTV systems. Time-dependent state space representations of LTV systems are first introduced, and the corresponding modal analysis theories are subsequently presented via a stability-preserving state transformation. The time-varying modes of LTV systems are extended in terms of uniqueness, and are further interpreted to determine the system's stability. An extended modal identification is proposed to estimate the time-varying modes, consisting of the estimation of the state transition matrix via a subspace-based method and the extraction of the time-varying modes by the QR decomposition. The proposed approach is numerically validated by three numerical cases, and is experimentally validated by a coupled moving-mass simply supported beam experimental case. The proposed approach is capable of accurately estimating the time-varying modes, and provides a new way to determine the dynamic stability of LTV systems by using the estimated time-varying modes.

[Two cases of personal identification from dental information].

PubMed

Yamaguchi, T; Yamada, Y; Ohtani, S; Kogure, T; Nagao, M; Takatori, T; Ohira, H; Yamamoto, I; Watanabe, A

1997-08-01

We describe two cases in which unknown bodies were positively identified from dental information and biochemical examination using tooth materials. In one case, a charred body was positively identified with little effort by comparison of antemortem dental records (dental chart and dental X-ray film) with postmortem data. In the other case, although the unknown individual had dental treatment, the police were unable to obtain the antemortem dental records of the victim. We then conducted biochemical analysis of teeth, facilitating personal identification using DNA analysis and age estimation based on aspartic acid racemization. The mutation obtained from the sequence of mtDNA and the genotypes of HLADQ alpha, HPRTB and ABO blood groups including the data for estimated age supported the kinship between the unknown individual and his mother. The data for maternally inherited mtDNA were of great importance in this case, since it was possible to obtain DNA from the mother. Dental identification in one of the most accurate methods of personal identification if suitable antemortem records are available. In the absence of such records, biochemical analysis of teeth also makes it possible to increase the probability of correct personal identification.

Application of life cycle assessment for an evaluation of wastewater treatment and reuse project--case study of Xi'an, China.

PubMed

Zhang, Q H; Wang, X C; Xiong, J Q; Chen, R; Cao, B

2010-03-01

In order to illuminate the benefit of a wastewater treatment and reuse project, a life cycle assessment (LCA) model was proposed by combining the process-based LCA and the input-output based LCA in one framework and using energy consumption as the sole parameter for quantitative evaluation of the project. The life cycle consumption was evaluated mainly by life cycle inventory (LCI) analysis taking into account the construction phase, operation phase and demolishment phase of the project. For evaluating the life cycle benefit of treated water reuse, attention was paid to the decrease of secondary effluent discharge and water saving. As a result of comprehensive LCA analysis of a case project in Xi'an, China, it was understood that the life cycle benefit gained from treated wastewater reuse much surpassed the life cycle energy consumption. The advantage of wastewater treatment and reuse was well shown by LCA analysis using the proposed model. 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Defect induced guided waves mode conversion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wandowski, Tomasz; Kudela, Pawel; Malinowski, Pawel; Ostachowicz, Wieslaw

2016-04-01

This paper deals with analysis of guided waves mode conversion phenomenon in fiber reinforced composite materials. Mode conversion phenomenon may take place when propagating elastic guided waves interact with discontinuities in the composite waveguide. The examples of such discontinuities are sudden thickness change or delamination between layers in composite material. In this paper, analysis of mode conversion phenomenon is based on full wave-field signals. In the full wave-field approach signals representing propagation of elastic waves are gathered from dense mesh of points that span over investigated area of composite part. This allow to animate the guided wave propagation. The reported analysis is based on signals resulting from numerical calculations and experimental measurements. In both cases defect in the form of delamination is considered. In the case of numerical research, Spectral Element Method (SEM) is utilized, in which a mesh is composed of 3D elements. Numerical model includes also piezoelectric transducer. Full wave-field experimental measurements are conducted by using piezoelectric transducer for guided wave excitation and Scanning Laser Doppler Vibrometer (SLDV) for sensing.

An Automatic Approach for Analyzing Treatment Effectiveness Based on Medication Hierarchy - The Myocardial Infarction Case Study.

PubMed

Li, Yingxue; Hu, Yiying; Yang, Jingang; Li, Xiang; Liu, Haifeng; Xie, Guotong; Xu, Meilin; Hu, Jingyi; Yang, Yuejin

2017-01-01

Treatment effectiveness plays a fundamental role in patient therapies. In most observational studies, researchers often design an analysis pipeline for a specific treatment based on the study cohort. To evaluate other treatments in the data set, much repeated and multifarious work including cohort construction, statistical analysis need to be done. In addition, as treatments are often with an intrinsic hierarchical relationship, many rational comparable treatment pairs can be derived as new treatment variables besides the original single treatment one from the original cohort data set. In this paper, we propose an automatic treatment effectiveness analysis approach to solve this problem. With our approach, clinicians can assess the effect of treatments not only more conveniently but also more thoroughly and comprehensively. We applied this method to a real world case of estimating the drug effectiveness on Chinese Acute Myocardial Infarction (CAMI) data set and some meaningful results are obtained for potential improvement of patient treatments.

Advantages of the net benefit regression framework for economic evaluations of interventions in the workplace: a case study of the cost-effectiveness of a collaborative mental health care program for people receiving short-term disability benefits for psychiatric disorders.

PubMed

Hoch, Jeffrey S; Dewa, Carolyn S

2014-04-01

Economic evaluations commonly accompany trials of new treatments or interventions; however, regression methods and their corresponding advantages for the analysis of cost-effectiveness data are not well known. To illustrate regression-based economic evaluation, we present a case study investigating the cost-effectiveness of a collaborative mental health care program for people receiving short-term disability benefits for psychiatric disorders. We implement net benefit regression to illustrate its strengths and limitations. Net benefit regression offers a simple option for cost-effectiveness analyses of person-level data. By placing economic evaluation in a regression framework, regression-based techniques can facilitate the analysis and provide simple solutions to commonly encountered challenges. Economic evaluations of person-level data (eg, from a clinical trial) should use net benefit regression to facilitate analysis and enhance results.

Forest Disturbance Analysis with LANDSAT-8 Oli Data Related to a Parametric Wind Field: a Case Study for Typhoon Rammasun (201409)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tan, C.; Fang, W.

2018-04-01

Forest disturbance induced by tropical cyclone often has significant and profound effects on the structure and function of forest ecosystem. Detection and analysis of post-disaster forest disturbance based on remote sensing technology has been widely applied. At present, it is necessary to conduct further quantitative analysis of the magnitude of forest disturbance with the intensity of typhoon. In this study, taking the case of super typhoon Rammasun (201409), we analysed the sensitivity of four common used remote sensing indices and explored the relationship between remote sensing index and corresponding wind speeds based on pre-and post- Landsat-8 OLI (Operational Land Imager) images and a parameterized wind field model. The results proved that NBR is the most sensitive index for the detection of forest disturbance induced by Typhoon Rammasun and the variation of NBR has a significant linear dependence relation with the simulated 3-second gust wind speed.

Use of social network analysis in maternity care to identify the profession most suited for case manager role.

PubMed

Groenen, Carola J M; van Duijnhoven, Noortje T L; Faber, Marjan J; Koetsenruijter, Jan; Kremer, Jan A M; Vandenbussche, Frank P H A

2017-02-01

To improve Dutch maternity care, professionals start working in interdisciplinary patient-centred networks, which includes the patients as a member. The introduction of the case manager is expected to work positively on both the individual and the network level. However, case management is new in Dutch maternity care. The present study aims to define the profession that would be most suitable to fulfil the role of case manager. The maternal care network in the Nijmegen region was determined by using Social Network Analysis (SNA). SNA is a quantitative methodology that measures and analyses patient-related connections between different professionals working in a network. To identify the case manager we focused on the position, reach, and connections in the network of the maternal care professionals. Maternity healthcare professionals in a single region of the Netherlands with an average of 4,500 births/year. The participants were 214 individual healthcare workers from eight different professions. The total network showed 3948 connections between 214 maternity healthcare professionals with a density of 0.08. Each profession had some central individuals in the network. The 52 community-based midwives were responsible for 51% of all measured connections. The youth health doctors and nurses were mostly situated on the periphery and less connected. The betweenness centrality had the highest score in obstetricians and community-based midwives. Only the community-based midwives had connections with all other groups of professions. Almost all professionals in the network could reach other professionals in two steps. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A classification tree based modeling approach for segment related crashes on multilane highways.

PubMed

Pande, Anurag; Abdel-Aty, Mohamed; Das, Abhishek

2010-10-01

This study presents a classification tree based alternative to crash frequency analysis for analyzing crashes on mid-block segments of multilane arterials. The traditional approach of modeling counts of crashes that occur over a period of time works well for intersection crashes where each intersection itself provides a well-defined unit over which to aggregate the crash data. However, in the case of mid-block segments the crash frequency based approach requires segmentation of the arterial corridor into segments of arbitrary lengths. In this study we have used random samples of time, day of week, and location (i.e., milepost) combinations and compared them with the sample of crashes from the same arterial corridor. For crash and non-crash cases, geometric design/roadside and traffic characteristics were derived based on their milepost locations. The variables used in the analysis are non-event specific and therefore more relevant for roadway safety feature improvement programs. First classification tree model is a model comparing all crashes with the non-crash data and then four groups of crashes (rear-end, lane-change related, pedestrian, and single-vehicle/off-road crashes) are separately compared to the non-crash cases. The classification tree models provide a list of significant variables as well as a measure to classify crash from non-crash cases. ADT along with time of day/day of week are significantly related to all crash types with different groups of crashes being more likely to occur at different times. From the classification performance of different models it was apparent that using non-event specific information may not be suitable for single vehicle/off-road crashes. The study provides the safety analysis community an additional tool to assess safety without having to aggregate the corridor crash data over arbitrary segment lengths. Copyright © 2010. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Case for Deploying Complex Systems Utilizing Commodity Components

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bryant, Barry S.; Pitts, R. Lee; Ritter, George

2003-01-01

This viewgraph representation presents a study of the transition of computer networks and software engineering at the Huntsville Operations Support Center (HOSC) from a client/server UNIX based system to a client/server system based on commodity priced and open system components. Topics covered include: an overview of HOSC ground support systems, an analysis for changes to the existing ground support system, an analysis of options considered for the transition to a new system, and a consideration of goals for a new system.

Stability analysis and finite element simulations of superplastic forming in the presence of hydrostatic pressure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nazzal, M. A.

2018-04-01

It is established that some superplastic materials undergo significant cavitation during deformation. In this work, stability analysis for the superplastic copper based alloy Coronze-638 at 550 °C based on Hart's definition of stable plastic deformation and finite element simulations for the balanced biaxial loading case are carried out to study the effects of hydrostatic pressure on cavitation evolution during superplastic forming. The finite element results show that imposing hydrostatic pressure yields to a reduction in cavitation growth.

A methodology for risk analysis based on hybrid Bayesian networks: application to the regasification system of liquefied natural gas onboard a floating storage and regasification unit.

PubMed

Martins, Marcelo Ramos; Schleder, Adriana Miralles; Droguett, Enrique López

2014-12-01

This article presents an iterative six-step risk analysis methodology based on hybrid Bayesian networks (BNs). In typical risk analysis, systems are usually modeled as discrete and Boolean variables with constant failure rates via fault trees. Nevertheless, in many cases, it is not possible to perform an efficient analysis using only discrete and Boolean variables. The approach put forward by the proposed methodology makes use of BNs and incorporates recent developments that facilitate the use of continuous variables whose values may have any probability distributions. Thus, this approach makes the methodology particularly useful in cases where the available data for quantification of hazardous events probabilities are scarce or nonexistent, there is dependence among events, or when nonbinary events are involved. The methodology is applied to the risk analysis of a regasification system of liquefied natural gas (LNG) on board an FSRU (floating, storage, and regasification unit). LNG is becoming an important energy source option and the world's capacity to produce LNG is surging. Large reserves of natural gas exist worldwide, particularly in areas where the resources exceed the demand. Thus, this natural gas is liquefied for shipping and the storage and regasification process usually occurs at onshore plants. However, a new option for LNG storage and regasification has been proposed: the FSRU. As very few FSRUs have been put into operation, relevant failure data on FSRU systems are scarce. The results show the usefulness of the proposed methodology for cases where the risk analysis must be performed under considerable uncertainty. © 2014 Society for Risk Analysis.

Automated detection of tuberculosis on sputum smeared slides using stepwise classification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Divekar, Ajay; Pangilinan, Corina; Coetzee, Gerrit; Sondh, Tarlochan; Lure, Fleming Y. M.; Kennedy, Sean

2012-03-01

Routine visual slide screening for identification of tuberculosis (TB) bacilli in stained sputum slides under microscope system is a tedious labor-intensive task and can miss up to 50% of TB. Based on the Shannon cofactor expansion on Boolean function for classification, a stepwise classification (SWC) algorithm is developed to remove different types of false positives, one type at a time, and to increase the detection of TB bacilli at different concentrations. Both bacilli and non-bacilli objects are first analyzed and classified into several different categories including scanty positive, high concentration positive, and several non-bacilli categories: small bright objects, beaded, dim elongated objects, etc. The morphological and contrast features are extracted based on aprior clinical knowledge. The SWC is composed of several individual classifiers. Individual classifier to increase the bacilli counts utilizes an adaptive algorithm based on a microbiologist's statistical heuristic decision process. Individual classifier to reduce false positive is developed through minimization from a binary decision tree to classify different types of true and false positive based on feature vectors. Finally, the detection algorithm is was tested on 102 independent confirmed negative and 74 positive cases. A multi-class task analysis shows high accordance rate for negative, scanty, and high-concentration as 88.24%, 56.00%, and 97.96%, respectively. A binary-class task analysis using a receiver operating characteristics method with the area under the curve (Az) is also utilized to analyze the performance of this detection algorithm, showing the superior detection performance on the high-concentration cases (Az=0.913) and cases mixed with high-concentration and scanty cases (Az=0.878).

Environmental Factors Contributing to Wrongdoing in Medicine: A Criterion-Based Review of Studies and Cases

PubMed Central

DuBois, James M.; Carroll, Kelly; Gibb, Tyler; Kraus, Elena; Rubbelke, Timothy; Vasher, Meghan; Anderson, Emily E.

2012-01-01

In this paper we describe our approach to understanding wrongdoing in medical research and practice, which involves the statistical analysis of coded data from a large set of published cases. We focus on understanding the environmental factors that predict the kind and the severity of wrongdoing in medicine. Through review of empirical and theoretical literature, consultation with experts, the application of criminological theory, and ongoing analysis of our first 60 cases, we hypothesize that 10 contextual features of the medical environment (including financial rewards, oversight failures, and patients belonging to vulnerable groups) may contribute to professional wrongdoing. We define each variable, examine data supporting our hypothesis, and present a brief case synopsis from our study that illustrates the potential influence of the variable. Finally, we discuss limitations of the resulting framework and directions for future research. PMID:23226933

Proton irradiation studies on Al and Al5083 alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bhattacharyya, P.; Gayathri, N.; Bhattacharya, M.; Gupta, A. Dutta; Sarkar, Apu; Dhar, S.; Mitra, M. K.; Mukherjee, P.

2017-10-01

The change in the microstructural parameters and microhardness values in 6.5 MeV proton irradiated pure Al and Al5083 alloy samples have been evaluated using different model based techniques of X-ray diffraction Line Profile Analysis (XRD) and microindendation techniques. The detailed line profile analysis of the XRD data showed that the domain size increases and saturates with irradiation dose both in the case of Al and Al5083 alloy. The corresponding microstrain values did not show any change with irradiation dose in the case of the pure Al but showed an increase at higher irradiation doses in the case of Al5083 alloy. The microindendation results showed that unirradiated Al5083 alloy has higher hardness value compared to that of unirradiated pure Al. The hardness increased marginally with irradiation dose in the case of Al5083, whereas for pure Al, there was no significant change with dose.

Case managers and the use of Medicare, Part D.

PubMed

Hensley, Melissa Anne

2011-01-01

The purpose of this study was to examine the experiences and opinions of community-based mental health case managers with the Medicare prescription drug benefit. A qualitative approach, consisting of analysis of data from 3 case manager focus groups, was used to achieve an understanding of the role that case managers played in beneficiaries' access to and use of prescription medicines. Two urban nonprofit community-based mental health agencies. Adults who are disabled by mental illness depend on case managers for information about their prescription drug insurance, help with formulary and plan switching information, and assistance with tasks related to medication adherence in the community. Common themes in the case managers' discussion were managing beneficiary problems, stress for beneficiaries, information and paperwork issues, and cynicism regarding health care reform. The critical role of case managers in the use of Medicare Part D is not well understood or appreciated. Case managers need to be informed about Medicare Part D and ready to advocate for their clients in the community. In addition, it is important for case managers to understand how Medicare Part D affects not only older adults, but also adults living with serious and persistent mental illness.

How well can wave runup be predicted? comment on Laudier et al. (2011) and Stockdon et al. (2006)

USGS Publications Warehouse

Plant, Nathaniel G.; Stockdon, Hilary F.

2015-01-01

Laudier et al. (2011) suggested that there may be a systematic bias error in runup predictions using a model developed by Stockdon et al. (2006). Laudier et al. tested cases that sampled beach and wave conditions that differed from those used to develop the Stockdon et al. model. Based on our re-analysis, we found that in two of the three Laudier et al. cases observed overtopping was actually consistent with the Stockdon et al. predictions. In these cases, the revised predictions indicated substantial overtopping with, in one case, a freeboard deficit of 1 m. In the third case, the revised prediction had a low likelihood of overtopping, which reflected a large uncertainty due to wave conditions that included a broad and bi-modal frequency distribution. The discrepancy between Laudier et al. results and our re-analysis appear to be due, in part, to simplifications made by Laudier et al. when they implemented a reduced version of the Stockdon et al. model.

An Analysis of Earth Science Data Analytics Use Cases

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shie, Chung-Lin; Kempler, Steve

2014-01-01

The increase in the number and volume, and sources, of globally available Earth science data measurements and datasets have afforded Earth scientists and applications researchers unprecedented opportunities to study our Earth in ever more sophisticated ways. In fact, the NASA Earth Observing System Data Information System (EOSDIS) archives have doubled from 2007 to 2014, to 9.1 PB (Ramapriyan, 2009; and https:earthdata.nasa.govaboutsystem-- performance). In addition, other US agency, international programs, field experiments, ground stations, and citizen scientists provide a plethora of additional sources for studying Earth. Co--analyzing huge amounts of heterogeneous data to glean out unobvious information is a daunting task. Earth science data analytics (ESDA) is the process of examining large amounts of data of a variety of types to uncover hidden patterns, unknown correlations and other useful information. It can include Data Preparation, Data Reduction, and Data Analysis. Through work associated with the Earth Science Information Partners (ESIP) Federation, a collection of Earth science data analytics use cases have been collected and analyzed for the purpose of extracting the types of Earth science data analytics employed, and requirements for data analytics tools and techniques yet to be implemented, based on use case needs. ESIP generated use case template, ESDA use cases, use case types, and preliminary use case analysis (this is a work in progress) will be presented.

Cost-effectiveness analysis of a system-based approach for managing neonatal jaundice and preventing kernicterus in Ontario.

PubMed

Xie, Bin; da Silva, Orlando; Zaric, Greg

2012-01-01

To evaluate the incremental cost-effectiveness of a system-based approach for the management of neonatal jaundice and the prevention of kernicterus in term and late-preterm (≥35 weeks) infants, compared with the traditional practice based on visual inspection and selected bilirubin testing. Two hypothetical cohorts of 150,000 term and late-preterm neonates were used to compare the costs and outcomes associated with the use of a system-based or traditional practice approach. Data for the evaluation were obtained from the case costing centre at a large teaching hospital in Ontario, supplemented by data from the literature. The per child cost for the system-based approach cohort was $176, compared with $173 in the traditional practice cohort. The higher cost associated with the system-based cohort reflects increased costs for predischarge screening and treatment and increased postdischarge follow-up visits. These costs are partially offset by reduced costs from fewer emergency room visits, hospital readmissions and kernicterus cases. Compared with the traditional approach, the cost to prevent one kernicterus case using the system-based approach was $570,496, the cost per life year gained was $26,279, and the cost per quality-adjusted life year gained was $65,698. The cost to prevent one kernicterus case using the system-based approach is much lower than previously reported in the literature.

Cost-effectiveness analysis of a system-based approach for managing neonatal jaundice and preventing kernicterus in Ontario

PubMed Central

Xie, Bin; da Silva, Orlando; Zaric, Greg

2012-01-01

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the incremental cost-effectiveness of a system-based approach for the management of neonatal jaundice and the prevention of kernicterus in term and late-preterm (≥35 weeks) infants, compared with the traditional practice based on visual inspection and selected bilirubin testing. STUDY DESIGN: Two hypothetical cohorts of 150,000 term and late-preterm neonates were used to compare the costs and outcomes associated with the use of a system-based or traditional practice approach. Data for the evaluation were obtained from the case costing centre at a large teaching hospital in Ontario, supplemented by data from the literature. RESULTS: The per child cost for the system-based approach cohort was $176, compared with $173 in the traditional practice cohort. The higher cost associated with the system-based cohort reflects increased costs for predischarge screening and treatment and increased postdischarge follow-up visits. These costs are partially offset by reduced costs from fewer emergency room visits, hospital readmissions and kernicterus cases. Compared with the traditional approach, the cost to prevent one kernicterus case using the system-based approach was $570,496, the cost per life year gained was $26,279, and the cost per quality-adjusted life year gained was $65,698. CONCLUSION: The cost to prevent one kernicterus case using the system-based approach is much lower than previously reported in the literature. PMID:23277747

Linear approximations of global behaviors in nonlinear systems with moderate or strong noise

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liang, Junhao; Din, Anwarud; Zhou, Tianshou

2018-03-01

While many physical or chemical systems can be modeled by nonlinear Langevin equations (LEs), dynamical analysis of these systems is challenging in the cases of moderate and strong noise. Here we develop a linear approximation scheme, which can transform an often intractable LE into a linear set of binomial moment equations (BMEs). This scheme provides a feasible way to capture nonlinear behaviors in the sense of probability distribution and is effective even when the noise is moderate or big. Based on BMEs, we further develop a noise reduction technique, which can effectively handle tough cases where traditional small-noise theories are inapplicable. The overall method not only provides an approximation-based paradigm to analysis of the local and global behaviors of nonlinear noisy systems but also has a wide range of applications.

A new patent-based approach for technology mapping in the pharmaceutical domain.

PubMed

Russo, Davide; Montecchi, Tiziano; Carrara, Paolo

2013-09-01

The key factor in decision-making is the quality of information collected and processed in the problem analysis. In most cases, patents represent a very important source of information. The main problem is how to extract such information from the huge corpus of documents with a high recall and precision, and in a short time. This article demonstrates a patent search and classification method, called Knowledge Organizing Module, which consists of creating, almost automatically, a pool of patents based on polysemy expansion and homonymy disambiguation. Since the pool is done, an automatic patent technology landscaping is provided for fixing the state of the art of our product, and exploring competing alternative treatments and/or possible technological opportunities. An exemplary case study is provided, it deals with a patent analysis in the field of verruca treatments.

A PC-Based Free Text DSS for Health Care

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Grams, Ralph R.; Buchanan, Paul; Massey, James K.; Jin, Ming

1987-01-01

A free Decision Support System(DST) has been constructed for health care professional that allows the analysis of complex medical cases and the creation of diagnostic list of potential diseases for clinical evaluation.The system uses a PC-based text management system specifically designed for desktop operation. The texts employed in the decision support package include the Merck Manual (published by Merck Sharpe & Dohme) and Control of Communicable Diseas in Man (published by the American Public Health Association). The background and design of the database are discussed along with a structured analysis procedure for handling free text DSS system. A case study is presented to show the application of this technology and conclusions are drawn in the summary that point to expanded areas of professional intention and new frontiers yet to be explored in this rapidly progressing field.

[Cost-utility analysis of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis treatment with azathioprine or interferon beta in Spain].

PubMed

Rubio-Terrés, C; Domínguez-Gil Hurlé, A

To carry out a cost-utility analysis of the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) with azathioprine (Imurel) or beta interferon (all, Avonex, Rebif and Betaferon). Pharmacoeconomic Markov model comparing treatment options by simulating the life of a hypothetical cohort of women aged 30, from the societal perspective. The transition probabilities, utilities, resource utilisation and costs (direct and indirect) were obtained from Spanish sources and from bibliography. Univariant sensitivity analyses of the base case were performed. In the base case analysis, the average cost per patient (euros in 2003) of a life treatment, considering a life expectancy of 53 years, would be 620,205, 1,047,836, 1,006,014, 1,161,638 and 968,157 euros with Imurel, all interferons, Avonex, Rebif and Betaferon, respectively. Therefore, the saving with Imurel would range between 327,000 and 520,000 euros approximately. The quality-adjusted life years (QALY) obtained with Imurel or interferons would be 10.08 and 9.30, respectively, with an average gain of 0.78 QALY per patient treated with Imurel. The sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the base case. The cost of one additional QALY with interferons would range between 413,000 and 1,308,000 euros approximately in the hypothetical worst scenario for Imurel. For a typical patient with RRMS, treatment with Imurel would be more efficient than interferons and would dominate (would be more efficacious with lower costs) beta interferon.