24 CFR 570.411 - Joint Community Development Program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... chief executive officer of each unit of general local government affected or a resolution of the... Availability described below in paragraph (h) of this section. (d) Role of participants in joint applications... will have to clearly delineate the role of each applicant in the joint application. Any funding...

Joint Venture Health Plans May Give ACOs a Run for Their Money.

PubMed

Reinke, Thomas

2016-12-01

Joint venture plans are starting to demonstrate their ability to implement clinical management and financial management reforms. A JV health plan replaces the offloading of financial risk by health plans to ill-equipped providers with an executive-level cost management committee stated jointly by the hospital and payer.

78 FR 16699 - National Maritime Security Advisory Committee; Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-03-18

... Executive Order \\1\\ to strengthen the cybersecurity of critical infrastructure by increasing information sharing and by jointly developing and implementing a framework of cybersecurity practices with our...-press-office/2013/02/12/executive-order-improving-critical-infrastructure-cybersecurity . (2...

20 CFR 901.34 - Conferences.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

...' Benefits JOINT BOARD FOR THE ENROLLMENT OF ACTUARIES REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE PERFORMANCE OF ACTUARIAL... § 901.34 Conferences. (a) In general. The Executive Director may confer with an enrolled actuary... of the actuary or the Executive Director. (b) Voluntary suspension or termination of enrollment. An...

20 CFR 901.34 - Conferences.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

...' Benefits JOINT BOARD FOR THE ENROLLMENT OF ACTUARIES REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE PERFORMANCE OF ACTUARIAL... § 901.34 Conferences. (a) In general. The Executive Director may confer with an enrolled actuary... of the actuary or the Executive Director. (b) Voluntary suspension or termination of enrollment. An...

20 CFR 901.34 - Conferences.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

...' Benefits JOINT BOARD FOR THE ENROLLMENT OF ACTUARIES REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE PERFORMANCE OF ACTUARIAL... § 901.34 Conferences. (a) In general. The Executive Director may confer with an enrolled actuary... of the actuary or the Executive Director. (b) Voluntary suspension or termination of enrollment. An...

20 CFR 901.34 - Conferences.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

...' Benefits JOINT BOARD FOR THE ENROLLMENT OF ACTUARIES REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE PERFORMANCE OF ACTUARIAL... § 901.34 Conferences. (a) In general. The Executive Director may confer with an enrolled actuary... of the actuary or the Executive Director. (b) Voluntary suspension or termination of enrollment. An...

78 FR 19277 - National Maritime Security Advisory Committee; Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-03-29

... Obama signed an Executive Order to strengthen the cybersecurity of critical infrastructure by increasing information sharing and by jointly developing and implementing a framework of cybersecurity practices with our...-press-office/2013/02/12/executive-order-improving-critical-infrastructure-cybersecurity . (2...

20 CFR 901.34 - Conferences.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

...' Benefits JOINT BOARD FOR THE ENROLLMENT OF ACTUARIES REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE PERFORMANCE OF ACTUARIAL... § 901.34 Conferences. (a) In general. The Executive Director may confer with an enrolled actuary... of the actuary or the Executive Director. (b) Voluntary suspension or termination of enrollment. An...

77 FR 43636 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; New York Stock Exchange LLC; Notice of Filing and Immediate...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-07-25

... trade execution services are an example of `joint products' with `joint costs.'''), attachment at pg. 4... economic theory. See, e.g., F. W. Taussig, ``A Contribution to the Theory of Railway Rates,'' Quarterly...

Quantifying space-time dynamics of flood event types

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Viglione, Alberto; Chirico, Giovanni Battista; Komma, Jürgen; Woods, Ross; Borga, Marco; Blöschl, Günter

2010-11-01

SummaryA generalised framework of space-time variability in flood response is used to characterise five flood events of different type in the Kamp area in Austria: one long-rain event, two short-rain events, one rain-on-snow event and one snowmelt event. Specifically, the framework quantifies the contributions of the space-time variability of rainfall/snowmelt, runoff coefficient, hillslope and channel routing to the flood runoff volume and the delay and spread of the resulting hydrograph. The results indicate that the components obtained by the framework clearly reflect the individual processes which characterise the event types. For the short-rain events, temporal, spatial and movement components can all be important in runoff generation and routing, which would be expected because of their local nature in time and, particularly, in space. For the long-rain event, the temporal components tend to be more important for runoff generation, because of the more uniform spatial coverage of rainfall, while for routing the spatial distribution of the produced runoff, which is not uniform, is also important. For the rain-on-snow and snowmelt events, the spatio-temporal variability terms typically do not play much role in runoff generation and the spread of the hydrograph is mainly due to the duration of the event. As an outcome of the framework, a dimensionless response number is proposed that represents the joint effect of runoff coefficient and hydrograph peakedness and captures the absolute magnitudes of the observed flood peaks.

Stair ascent with an innovative microprocessor-controlled exoprosthetic knee joint.

PubMed

Bellmann, Malte; Schmalz, Thomas; Ludwigs, Eva; Blumentritt, Siegmar

2012-12-01

Climbing stairs can pose a major challenge for above-knee amputees as a result of compromised motor performance and limitations to prosthetic design. A new, innovative microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knee joint, the Genium, incorporates a function that allows an above-knee amputee to climb stairs step over step. To execute this function, a number of different sensors and complex switching algorithms were integrated into the prosthetic knee joint. The function is intuitive for the user. A biomechanical study was conducted to assess objective gait measurements and calculate joint kinematics and kinetics as subjects ascended stairs. Results demonstrated that climbing stairs step over step is more biomechanically efficient for an amputee using the Genium prosthetic knee than the previously possible conventional method where the extended prosthesis is trailed as the amputee executes one or two steps at a time. There is a natural amount of stress on the residual musculoskeletal system, and it has been shown that the healthy contralateral side supports the movements of the amputated side. The mechanical power that the healthy contralateral knee joint needs to generate during the extension phase is also reduced. Similarly, there is near normal loading of the hip joint on the amputated side.

20 CFR 901.45 - Evidence.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

...' Benefits JOINT BOARD FOR THE ENROLLMENT OF ACTUARIES REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE PERFORMANCE OF ACTUARIAL... actuaries. However, the Administrative Law Judge shall exclude evidence which is irrelevant, immaterial, or... of Actuaries or the Office of the Executive Director of the Joint Board for the Enrollment of...

20 CFR 901.45 - Evidence.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

...' Benefits JOINT BOARD FOR THE ENROLLMENT OF ACTUARIES REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE PERFORMANCE OF ACTUARIAL... actuaries. However, the Administrative Law Judge shall exclude evidence which is irrelevant, immaterial, or... of Actuaries or the Office of the Executive Director of the Joint Board for the Enrollment of...

20 CFR 901.45 - Evidence.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

...' Benefits JOINT BOARD FOR THE ENROLLMENT OF ACTUARIES REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE PERFORMANCE OF ACTUARIAL... actuaries. However, the Administrative Law Judge shall exclude evidence which is irrelevant, immaterial, or... of Actuaries or the Office of the Executive Director of the Joint Board for the Enrollment of...

20 CFR 901.45 - Evidence.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

...' Benefits JOINT BOARD FOR THE ENROLLMENT OF ACTUARIES REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE PERFORMANCE OF ACTUARIAL... actuaries. However, the Administrative Law Judge shall exclude evidence which is irrelevant, immaterial, or... of Actuaries or the Office of the Executive Director of the Joint Board for the Enrollment of...

20 CFR 901.45 - Evidence.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

...' Benefits JOINT BOARD FOR THE ENROLLMENT OF ACTUARIES REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE PERFORMANCE OF ACTUARIAL... actuaries. However, the Administrative Law Judge shall exclude evidence which is irrelevant, immaterial, or... of Actuaries or the Office of the Executive Director of the Joint Board for the Enrollment of...

Text of 'Executive Summary' of TIAA-CREF Panel's Recommendations on Pension Funds.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chronicle of Higher Education, 1987

1987-01-01

The executive summary of of TIAA-CREF's Special Trustee Joint Committee's report "TIAA-CREF: The Future Agenda," cites new accumulation funds and pay-out vehicles; transferability of annuity accumulations; reporting, services, and planning for policy holders and institutions; and governance and implementation. (MLW)

A Parallel and Distributed Processing Model of Joint Attention, Social-Cognition and Autism

PubMed Central

Mundy, Peter; Sullivan, Lisa; Mastergeorge, Ann M.

2009-01-01

Scientific Abstract The impaired development of joint attention is a cardinal feature of autism. Therefore, understanding the nature of joint attention is a central to research on this disorder. Joint attention may be best defined in terms of an information processing system that begins to develop by 4–6 months of age. This system integrates the parallel processing of internal information about one’s own visual attention with external information about the visual attention of other people. This type of joint encoding of information about self and other attention requires the activation of a distributed anterior and posterior cortical attention network. Genetic regulation, in conjunction with self-organizing behavioral activity guides the development of functional connectivity in this network. With practice in infancy the joint processing of self-other attention becomes automatically engaged as an executive function. It can be argued that this executive joint-attention is fundamental to human learning, as well as the development of symbolic thought, social-cognition and social-competence throughout the life span. One advantage of this parallel and distributed processing model of joint attention (PDPM) is that it directly connects theory on social pathology to a range of phenomenon in autism associated with neural connectivity, constructivist and connectionist models of cognitive development, early intervention, activity-dependent gene expression, and atypical ocular motor control. PMID:19358304

Designing an International Joint Venture Negotiation Game.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kenkel, Phil; And Others

1996-01-01

Evaluates a simulation game that models management problems encountered in negotiating and managing international joint ventures. Designed to instruct executives of state-owned agribusinesses in Indonesia in abstract concepts such as partner rapport, transfer price conflicts, and marketing disagreements, its success suggests that simulation games…

National Guard Bureau Joint Staff

Science.gov Websites

, Publications Management, Administrative Services, Joint Staff Information Data Systems, Property Book -7 J-8 Personal Staff Inspector General Judge Advocate General Officer Management Public Affairs Executive Support Services Legislative Liaison Special Staff Directorate of Management Office of the Provost

Speaking Personally--with Gary Miller

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cano, Leslie

2016-01-01

Gary Miller is the executive director emeritus of the Penn State World Campus. Prior to his retirement he served as associate vice president for outreach and executive director of continuing and distance education at The Pennsylvania State University. In 2004 he received the Mildred B. and Charles A. Wedemeyer Award, presented jointly by "The…

Assessing Cultural Change in the United States Army Recruiting Command

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-11-10

September 2008) 10Joint Advertising, Marketing Research Studies, 2008 Recruiter Quality of Life Survey: Preliminary Topline Findings, (Arlington, VA...Joint Advertising, Marketing Research Studies), http://www.dmren.org/jamrs/execute/mrs/studies/recruiter-study/2008, (accessed on 10 November 2008...October 2008, (Fort Knox, Kentucky, 17 October 2008), 19. 13 Ibid. 14 Joint Advertising, Marketing Research Studies, 2005 Recruiter Quality of Life

Joint Force Quarterly. Number 1, Summer 1993

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-01-01

Contributors Joint Force Quarterly A PROFESSIONAL MILITARY JOURNAL Editor-in-Chief Alvin H. Bernstein Executive Editor Patrick M. Cronin Managing Editor Robert...understanding of the integrated employ- ment of land, sea, air, space, and special operations forces. The journal focuses on joint doctrine, coalition...other agency of the Federal Government. Por- tions of this journal are protected by copyright and may not be reproduced or extracted without the

2011 Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical and Biological Defense Advance Planning Briefing for Industry (APBI) Held in Baltimore, Maryland on September 7-9, 2011

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-09-09

Chemical and Biological Defense Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA)/Joint Science & Technology Office (JSTO) Dr. Alan Rudolph , Director, Chemical...Mr. Douglas W. Bryce 9:05 am – 9:45 am Dr. Alan Rudolph Director, Chemical and Biological Technologies Directorate, Defense Threat Reduction...Joint Science and Technology Office for Chemical and Biological Defense Dr. Alan S. Rudolph Mr. David K. Grimm Acting Heidi Shyu Joint Combat

A Conversation with Blake Simmons, Vice President, Deconstruction Division, and Jon Magnuson, Director, Fungal Biotechnology Group, Joint BioEnergy Institute, Emeryville, CA

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

Simmons, Blake A.; Magnuson, Jon

An interview of myself and Blake Simmons conducted by Vicki Glaser, Executive Editor of Industrial Biotechnology. The subject of the interview was the relatively new PNNL led Fungal Biotechnology Group within the Joint BioEnergy Institute (JBEI).

Anxious and Depressive Symptomatology Among Male Youth: The Joint and Interactive Contribution of Temperament and Executive Functioning

PubMed Central

Shishido, Yuri; Latzman, Natasha E.; Clark, Lee Anna

2018-01-01

Few studies have investigated the combined effects of temperament and executive functioning (EF) on anxious and depressive symptomatology in youth. The current study is the first to investigate the joint and interactive contribution of mother- and youth self-reported affective dimensions of temperament and EF to the explanation of anxious and depressive symptomatology. Participants included 174 adolescent males (Mage = 13.6 ± 1.35). Results confirmed the joint and interactive contribution of temperament in the explanation of anxious and depressive symptomatology. Further, EF contributed to the explanation of anxious/depressive symptomatology via interaction with youth-, but not mother-reported, temperament; it was not a unique predictor. Results support the need to consider both affective dimensions of temperament and EF in etiological models of anxious and depressive symptomatology, which has implications for identifying at-risk youth and developing early intervention and targeted problem-specific prevention programs. PMID:26754748

Anxious and Depressive Symptomatology Among Male Youth: The Joint and Interactive Contribution of Temperament and Executive Functioning.

PubMed

Latzman, Robert D; Shishido, Yuri; Latzman, Natasha E; Clark, Lee Anna

2016-12-01

Few studies have investigated the combined effects of temperament and executive functioning (EF) on anxious and depressive symptomatology in youth. The current study is the first to investigate the joint and interactive contribution of mother- and youth self-reported affective dimensions of temperament and EF to the explanation of anxious and depressive symptomatology. Participants included 174 adolescent males (M age  = 13.6 ± 1.35). Results confirmed the joint and interactive contribution of temperament in the explanation of anxious and depressive symptomatology. Further, EF contributed to the explanation of anxious/depressive symptomatology via interaction with youth-, but not mother-reported, temperament; it was not a unique predictor. Results support the need to consider both affective dimensions of temperament and EF in etiological models of anxious and depressive symptomatology, which has implications for identifying at-risk youth and developing early intervention and targeted problem-specific prevention programs.

Directorate of Management - Special Staff - Joint Staff - Leadership - The

Science.gov Websites

Space Management, Publications Management, Administrative Services, Joint Staff Information Data Systems J-4 J-5 J-6 J-7 J-8 Personal Staff Inspector General Judge Advocate General Officer Management Public Affairs Executive Support Services Legislative Liaison Special Staff Directorate of Management

77 FR 38088 - Development of the Joint Strategic Plan on Intellectual Property Enforcement; Request of the U.S...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-26

... OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET Development of the Joint Strategic Plan on Intellectual Property Enforcement; Request of the U.S. Intellectual Property Enforcement Coordinator for Public Comments AGENCY: Office of the U.S. Intellectual Property Enforcement Coordinator, Executive Office of the President...

Fatigue performance of joints executed in pure titanium structures with several diameters.

PubMed

Nuñez-Pantoja, Juliana Maria Costa; Vaz, Luis Geraldo; Nóbilo, Mauro Antônio de Arruda; Mesquita, Marcelo Ferraz

2011-01-01

This study evaluated fatigue strength of CP-Ti laser-welded joints. Sixty (20/diameter) CP-Ti casted dumbbell rods with diameters of 1.5, 2.0, and 3.5 mm were sectioned and welded using two joint openings (0.0 (00) and 0.6 mm (06)). Six groups were formed, amounting to a total of 9 (n=10) with inclusion of intact groups. Welding was executed using 360 V/8 ms (1.5 and 2.0 mm) and 380 V/9 ms (3.5 mm). Joints were finished, polished, and submitted to radiographic examination to visually analyze presence of porosity (PP). Specimens were submitted to cyclic tests, and the number of cycles until failure (NC) was recorded. Fractured surfaces were examined by SEM. Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn (α=0.05) tests demonstrated that NC was lower for all diameters with 06, and for 3.5 mm/00. NC and PP were found to have a negative correlation (Spearman Coefficient). For CP-Ti frameworks with thin diameters, laser welding is better when structures are juxtaposed.

Examining Executive Function in the Second Year of Life: Coherence, Stability, and Relations to Joint Attention and Language

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Miller, Stephanie E.; Marcovitch, Stuart

2015-01-01

Several theories of executive function (EF) propose that EF development corresponds to children's ability to form representations and reflect on represented stimuli in the environment. However, research on early EF is primarily conducted with preschoolers, despite the fact that important developments in representation (e.g., language, gesture,…

360 PORT MDA - A Strategy to Improve Port Security

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-09-01

Participating Agencies (After: Executive Briefing..........................27 Table 6. Designated Joint Operations Center Participants (From: SAFE...Investigations CGIP Coast Guard Intelligence Program CHOC Charleston Harbor Operations Center CIO Command Intelligence Officer CMT Combating Maritime... EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Ports are critical to our economy and national security. Key hubs in the international trade network, U.S. ports accounted for more than

Manual of Military Decorations and Awards: General Information, Medal of Honor, and Defense/Joint Decorations and Awards. Volume 1

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-11-23

Executive Order 12019, “Establishing the Defense Meritorious Service Medal,” November 3, 1977 ( z ) “United States Government Manual 2009/2010...United States Government Manual 2008/2009 (Reference ( z )). (b) The DJS, for the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, for Service members assigned...the independent establishments and Government corporations. (See Reference ( z )). (b) The DJS, for the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff

Infant Joint Attention, Neural Networks and Social Cognition

PubMed Central

Mundy, Peter; Jarrold, William

2010-01-01

Neural network models of attention can provide a unifying approach to the study of human cognitive and emotional development (Posner & Rothbart, 2007). This paper we argue that a neural networks approach to the infant development of joint attention can inform our understanding of the nature of human social learning, symbolic thought process and social cognition. At its most basic, joint attention involves the capacity to coordinate one’s own visual attention with that of another person. We propose that joint attention development involves increments in the capacity to engage in simultaneous or parallel processing of information about one’s own attention and the attention of other people. Infant practice with joint attention is both a consequence and organizer of the development of a distributed and integrated brain network involving frontal and parietal cortical systems. This executive distributed network first serves to regulate the capacity of infants to respond to and direct the overt behavior of other people in order to share experience with others through the social coordination of visual attention. In this paper we describe this parallel and distributed neural network model of joint attention development and discuss two hypotheses that stem from this model. One is that activation of this distributed network during coordinated attention enhances to depth of information processing and encoding beginning in the first year of life. We also propose that with development joint attention becomes internalized as the capacity to socially coordinate mental attention to internal representations. As this occurs the executive joint attention network makes vital contributions to the development of human symbolic thinking and social cognition. PMID:20884172

Drop jumping. II. The influence of dropping height on the biomechanics of drop jumping.

PubMed

Bobbert, M F; Huijing, P A; van Ingen Schenau, G J

1987-08-01

In the literature, athletes preparing for explosive activities are recommended to include drop jumping in their training programs. For the execution of drop jumps, different techniques and different dropping heights can be used. This study was designed to investigate for the performance of bounce drop jumps the influence of dropping height on the biomechanics of the jumps. Six subjects executed bounce drop jumps from heights of 20 cm (designated here as DJ20), 40 cm (designated here as DJ40), and 60 cm (designated here as DJ60). During jumping, they were filmed, and ground reaction forces were recorded. The results of a biomechanical analysis show no difference between DJ20 and DJ40 in mechanical output about the joints during the push-off phase. Peak values of moment and power output about the ankles during the push-off phase were found to be smaller in DJ60 than in DJ40 (DJ20 = DJ60). The amplitude of joint reaction forces increased with dropping height. During DJ60, the net joint reaction forces showed a sharp peak on the instant that the heels came down on the ground. Based on the results, researchers are advised to limit dropping height to 20 or 40 cm when investigating training effects of the execution of bounce drop jumps.

14 CFR 17.27 - Submission of joint or separate statements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... either— (1) A joint request for ADR, and an executed ADR agreement, pursuant to § 17.33(d), specifying which ADR techniques will be employed; or (2) Written explanation(s) as to why ADR proceedings will not... Register. (d) The submission of a statement which indicates that ADR will not be utilized will not in any...

14 CFR 17.27 - Submission of joint or separate statements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... either— (1) A joint request for ADR, and an executed ADR agreement, pursuant to § 17.33(d), specifying which ADR techniques will be employed; or (2) Written explanation(s) as to why ADR proceedings will not... Register. (d) The submission of a statement which indicates that ADR will not be utilized will not in any...

Gen. Paul J. Selva > Joint Chiefs of Staff > Article View

Science.gov Websites

aircraft systems and executive officer, Deputy Chief of Staff, Plans and Resources, Headquarters Strategic Facebook on Flickr Joint Chiefs Army Chief of Staff Marine Corps Commandant Chief of Naval Operations Air Force Chief of Staff Chief of National Guard Bureau Biographies Directorates Directorates of Management

75 FR 55574 - Joint Public Roundtable on Swap Execution Facilities and Security-Based Swap Execution Facilities

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-09-13

... discussion; request for comment. SUMMARY: On September 15, 2010, commencing at 9 a.m. and ending at 12:30 p.m., staff of the Agencies will hold a public roundtable discussion at which invited participants will... ``Act'') granted to the Agencies respectively. The discussion will be open to the public with seating on...

Joint Operational Medicine Information Systems (JOMIS)

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-03-01

Component is Program Executive Office (PEO) Department of Defense (DoD) Healthcare Management Systems (DHMS) for Defense Health Agency (DHA). Responsible...AT&L)) and the Program Executive Office (PEO) Defense Healthcare Management Systems (DHMS). ​Operational medicine is the application of routine and...acquired by the DoD Healthcare Management System Modernization (DHMSM) program for Health Care Delivery (HCD) capabilities. JOMIS future release(s

Rejection Sensitivity and Executive Control: Joint predictors of Borderline Personality features

PubMed Central

Ayduk, Özlem; Zayas, Vivian; Downey, Geraldine; Cole, Amy Blum; Shoda, Yuichi; Mischel, Walter

2008-01-01

Two studies tested the hypothesis that rejection sensitivity (RS) and executive control (EC) jointly predict borderline personality (BP) features. We expected high RS to be related to increased vulnerability for BP features specifically in people who also had difficulties in executive control (EC). Study 1 tested this hypothesis using a sample of college students (N = 379) whereas Study 2 (N = 104) was conducted using a community sample of adults. Both studies operationalized EC by a self-report measure. For a subsample in Study 2 (N = 80), ability to delay gratification at age 4 was also used as an early behavioral precursor of EC in adulthood. In both studies, high RS was associated with increased BP features among people low in self-reported EC. Among those high in self-reported EC, the relationship between RS and BP features was attenuated. Study 2 found parallel findings using preschool delay ability as a behavioral index of EC. These findings suggest that EC may protect high RS people against BP features. PMID:18496604

Executive Report: JSOU (Joint Special Operations University) First Annual Symposium, 2-5 May 2006, Hurlburt Field, Florida

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-05-05

NUMBER 5e. TASK NUMBER 5f. WORK UNIT NUMBER 7. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES) Joint Special Operations University,357 Tully Street...Alison Building,Hurlburt Field,FL,32544 8. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION REPORT NUMBER 9. SPONSORING/MONITORING AGENCY NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES) 10. SPONSOR...leadership. JSOU is a subordinate organization of the US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), MacDill Air Force Base, Florida. The mission of the Joint

Joint Personnel Recovery Agency Joint Center for Operational Analysis and Lessons Learned Quarterly Bulletin, Volume 7, Issue 2, March 2005

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-03-01

execute these dangerous and uncertain missions. iv In my recent travels in the U.S. Central Command area of operations I had the great fortune of meeting...jfcom.mil 1Joint Center for Operational Analysis and Lessons Learned (JCOA-LL) Bulletin “That others may live…to return with honor” The old Chinese ...information has to travel to meet GCC staff requirements increases the difficulty in handling and maintaining situational awareness on PR events

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory shared control architecture and implementation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Backes, Paul G.; Hayati, Samad

1990-01-01

A hardware and software environment for shared control of telerobot task execution has been implemented. Modes of task execution range from fully teleoperated to fully autonomous as well as shared where hand controller inputs from the human operator are mixed with autonomous system inputs in real time. The objective of the shared control environment is to aid the telerobot operator during task execution by merging real-time operator control from hand controllers with autonomous control to simplify task execution for the operator. The operator is the principal command source and can assign as much autonomy for a task as desired. The shared control hardware environment consists of two PUMA 560 robots, two 6-axis force reflecting hand controllers, Universal Motor Controllers for each of the robots and hand controllers, a SUN4 computer, and VME chassis containing 68020 processors and input/output boards. The operator interface for shared control, the User Macro Interface (UMI), is a menu driven interface to design a task and assign the levels of teleoperated and autonomous control. The operator also sets up the system monitor which checks safety limits during task execution. Cartesian-space degrees of freedom for teleoperated and/or autonomous control inputs are selected within UMI as well as the weightings for the teleoperation and autonmous inputs. These are then used during task execution to determine the mix of teleoperation and autonomous inputs. Some of the autonomous control primitives available to the user are Joint-Guarded-Move, Cartesian-Guarded-Move, Move-To-Touch, Pin-Insertion/Removal, Door/Crank-Turn, Bolt-Turn, and Slide. The operator can execute a task using pure teleoperation or mix control execution from the autonomous primitives with teleoperated inputs. Presently the shared control environment supports single arm task execution. Work is presently underway to provide the shared control environment for dual arm control. Teleoperation during shared control is only Cartesian space control and no force-reflection is provided. Force-reflecting teleoperation and joint space operator inputs are planned extensions to the environment.

A cortically-inspired model for inverse kinematics computation of a humanoid finger with mechanically coupled joints.

PubMed

Gentili, Rodolphe J; Oh, Hyuk; Kregling, Alissa V; Reggia, James A

2016-05-19

The human hand's versatility allows for robust and flexible grasping. To obtain such efficiency, many robotic hands include human biomechanical features such as fingers having their two last joints mechanically coupled. Although such coupling enables human-like grasping, controlling the inverse kinematics of such mechanical systems is challenging. Here we propose a cortical model for fine motor control of a humanoid finger, having its two last joints coupled, that learns the inverse kinematics of the effector. This neural model functionally mimics the population vector coding as well as sensorimotor prediction processes of the brain's motor/premotor and parietal regions, respectively. After learning, this neural architecture could both overtly (actual execution) and covertly (mental execution or motor imagery) perform accurate, robust and flexible finger movements while reproducing the main human finger kinematic states. This work contributes to developing neuro-mimetic controllers for dexterous humanoid robotic/prosthetic upper-extremities, and has the potential to promote human-robot interactions.

Building Student Momentum from High School into College. Ready or Not: It's Time to Rethink the 12th Grade. Executive Summary

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Barnett, Elisabeth

2016-01-01

This executive summary describes a paper that is part of a series intended to encourage the nation's secondary and postsecondary systems to take joint responsibility for substantially increasing the number of young people who are prepared for college and career success. In this report, author Elisabeth Barnett of the Community College Research…

Politics as Usual: The Joint Committee on Printing and Executive Agency Publishing, 1919-1921.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Walters, John

1993-01-01

Provides an interpretation of the U.S. Congress Joint Committee on Printing (JCP) efforts to control departmental publishing from 1919 to 1921. Topics addressed include the JCP and the War Department, the role of the JCP in the defeat of the League of Nations, and the issue of separation of powers. (126 references) (LRW)

Keys and seats: Spatial response coding underlying the joint spatial compatibility effect.

PubMed

Dittrich, Kerstin; Dolk, Thomas; Rothe-Wulf, Annelie; Klauer, Karl Christoph; Prinz, Wolfgang

2013-11-01

Spatial compatibility effects (SCEs) are typically observed when participants have to execute spatially defined responses to nonspatial stimulus features (e.g., the color red or green) that randomly appear to the left and the right. Whereas a spatial correspondence of stimulus and response features facilitates response execution, a noncorrespondence impairs task performance. Interestingly, the SCE is drastically reduced when a single participant responds to one stimulus feature (e.g., green) by operating only one response key (individual go/no-go task), whereas a full-blown SCE is observed when the task is distributed between two participants (joint go/no-go task). This joint SCE (a.k.a. the social Simon effect) has previously been explained by action/task co-representation, whereas alternative accounts ascribe joint SCEs to spatial components inherent in joint go/no-go tasks that allow participants to code their responses spatially. Although increasing evidence supports the idea that spatial rather than social aspects are responsible for joint SCEs emerging, it is still unclear to which component(s) the spatial coding refers to: the spatial orientation of response keys, the spatial orientation of responding agents, or both. By varying the spatial orientation of the responding agents (Exp. 1) and of the response keys (Exp. 2), independent of the spatial orientation of the stimuli, in the present study we found joint SCEs only when both the seating and the response key alignment matched the stimulus alignment. These results provide evidence that spatial response coding refers not only to the response key arrangement, but also to the-often neglected-spatial orientation of the responding agents.

Infant joint attention, neural networks and social cognition.

PubMed

Mundy, Peter; Jarrold, William

2010-01-01

Neural network models of attention can provide a unifying approach to the study of human cognitive and emotional development (Posner & Rothbart, 2007). In this paper we argue that a neural network approach to the infant development of joint attention can inform our understanding of the nature of human social learning, symbolic thought process and social cognition. At its most basic, joint attention involves the capacity to coordinate one's own visual attention with that of another person. We propose that joint attention development involves increments in the capacity to engage in simultaneous or parallel processing of information about one's own attention and the attention of other people. Infant practice with joint attention is both a consequence and an organizer of the development of a distributed and integrated brain network involving frontal and parietal cortical systems. This executive distributed network first serves to regulate the capacity of infants to respond to and direct the overt behavior of other people in order to share experience with others through the social coordination of visual attention. In this paper we describe this parallel and distributed neural network model of joint attention development and discuss two hypotheses that stem from this model. One is that activation of this distributed network during coordinated attention enhances the depth of information processing and encoding beginning in the first year of life. We also propose that with development, joint attention becomes internalized as the capacity to socially coordinate mental attention to internal representations. As this occurs the executive joint attention network makes vital contributions to the development of human symbolic thinking and social cognition. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Radiographic inspection of porosity in Ti-6Al-4V laser-welded joints.

PubMed

Nuñez-Pantoja, Juliana Maria Costa; Takahashi, Jessica Mie Ferreira Koyama; Nóbilo, Mauro Antônio de Arruda; Consani, Rafael Leonardo Xediek; Mesquita, Marcelo Ferraz

2011-01-01

Widely used in dentistry, Ti-6Al-4V alloy is difficult to cast and solder, as it frequently exhibits pores inside the structure. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of joint openings and diameters of laser-welded joints executed in Ti-6Al-4V structures on the presence of pores as checked by radiographic procedures. Sixty dumbbell rods with central diameters of 1.5, 2.0 and 3.5 mm were created from Ti-6Al-4V-wrought bars. Specimens were sectioned and welded using two joint openings (0.0 and 0.6 mm). The combination of variables created six groups (n = 10). Laser welding was executed using 360V/8ms (1.5 and 2.0 mm) and 380V/9ms (3.5 mm), with the focus and frequency set to zero. The joints were finished, polished and submitted to radiographic examination. The radiographs were visually examined for the presence of pores in the joints, qualitatively. The percentage of radiographic presence of pores was calculated without counting pores per joint. Data were analyzed using a chi-square test (α = 0.05). For the 1.5-mm specimens, the incidence of pore presence was significantly higher (p = 0.0001) when using 0.6-mm joint openings (40%) compared to 0.0-mm openings (0%). For the 2.0-mm specimens, there was no significant difference between groups (p = 0.2008). However, for the 3.5-mm specimens, the incidence of pore presence was lower (p = 0.0061) for 0.6-mm openings (50%) compared to 0.0-mm openings (70%). Therefore, laser welding of Ti-6Al-4V structures with thin diameters provides the best condition for the juxtaposition of the parts.

Reducing acquisition risk through integrated systems of systems engineering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gross, Andrew; Hobson, Brian; Bouwens, Christina

2016-05-01

In the fall of 2015, the Joint Staff J7 (JS J7) sponsored the Bold Quest (BQ) 15.2 event and conducted planning and coordination to combine this event into a joint event with the Army Warfighting Assessment (AWA) 16.1 sponsored by the U.S. Army. This multipurpose event combined a Joint/Coalition exercise (JS J7) with components of testing, training, and experimentation required by the Army. In support of Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics, and Technology (ASA(ALT)) System of Systems Engineering and Integration (SoSE&I), Always On-On Demand (AO-OD) used a system of systems (SoS) engineering approach to develop a live, virtual, constructive distributed environment (LVC-DE) to support risk mitigation utilizing this complex and challenging exercise environment for a system preparing to enter limited user test (LUT). AO-OD executed a requirements-based SoS engineering process starting with user needs and objectives from Army Integrated Air and Missile Defense (AIAMD), Patriot units, Coalition Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (CISR), Focused End State 4 (FES4) Mission Command (MC) Interoperability with Unified Action Partners (UAP), and Mission Partner Environment (MPE) Integration and Training, Tactics and Procedures (TTP) assessment. The SoS engineering process decomposed the common operational, analytical, and technical requirements, while utilizing the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Distributed Simulation Engineering and Execution Process (DSEEP) to provide structured accountability for the integration and execution of the AO-OD LVC-DE. As a result of this process implementation, AO-OD successfully planned for, prepared, and executed a distributed simulation support environment that responsively satisfied user needs and objectives, demonstrating the viability of an LVC-DE environment to support multiple user objectives and support risk mitigation activities for systems in the acquisition process.

Space Weather Forecasting at the Joint Space Operations Center (JSpOC)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nava, O.

2012-12-01

The Joint Space Operations Center (JSpOC) at Vandenberg Air Force Base is the command and control focal point for the operational employment of worldwide joint space forces. The JSpOC focuses on planning and executing US Strategic Command's Joint Functional Component Command for Space (JFCC SPACE) mission. Through the JSpOC, the Weather Specialty Team (WST) monitors space and terrestrial weather effects, plans and assesses weather impacts on military operations, and provides reach-back support for deployed theater solar and terrestrial needs. This presentation will detail how space weather affects the JSpOC mission set and how the scientific community can enhance the WST's capabilities and effectiveness.

Fatigue strength: effect of welding type and joint design executed in Ti-6Al-4V structures.

PubMed

Pantoja, Juliana M C Nuñez; Farina, Ana P; Vaz, Luis G; Consani, Rafael L X; Nóbilo, Mauro A de Arruda; Mesquita, Marcelo F

2012-06-01

This study evaluated the fatigue strength of Ti-6Al-4V-machined structures submitted to laser (L)-welding and TIG (TIG)-welding procedures, varying the joint designs. Seventy dumbbell rods were machined in Ti-6Al-4V alloy with central diameters of 3.5 mm. The specimens were sectioned and welded using TIG or L and three joint designs {'I' design, varying welding distances [0.0 mm (I00) or 0.6 mm (I06)], or 'X' [X] design}. The combinations of variables created six groups, which, when added to the intact group, made a total of seven groups (n = 10). L was executed as follows: 360 V/8 ms (X) and 390 V/9 ms (I00 and I06), with focus and frequency regulated to zero. TIG was executed using 2:2 (X) and 3:2 (I00 and I06) as welding parameters. Joints were finished, polished and submitted to radiographic examination to be analysed visually for the presence of porosity. The specimens were then subjected to mechanical cyclic tests, and the number of cycles completed until failure was recorded. The fracture surface was examined using a scanning electron microscope. The Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn test (α = 0.05) indicated that the number of cycles resisted for fracture was higher to X for both welding procedures. To L, I06 was as resistant as X. The Mann-Whitney U-test (α = 0.05) indicated that L joints were more resistant than TIG to I00 and I06. Spearman's correlation coefficient (α = 0.05) indicated a negative correlation between the number of cycles and presence of porosity. Thus, to weld Ti-6Al-4V structures, the best condition is X, independent of the welding method employed. © 2011 The Gerodontology Society and John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Proposals for the Future of JCAS Doctrine

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-01-01

close proximity to friendly forces. GPS-equipped aircraft and munitions, laser range finders/designators and digital system capabilities are...Executive Summary 1 Introduction 2 IIistory of Close Air Support 3 Current Views on JCAS 15 JCAS Doctrine io Conclusion 22 Bibliography 27" r Executive...to be refined. An over-reliance on technology in an evolving Joint Close Air Support (JCAS) dogma increases airpower’s risk of fratricide to friendly

Joint Experimentation on Scalable Parallel Processors (JESPP)

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-04-01

made use of local embedded relational databases, implemented using sqlite on each node of an SPP to execute queries and return results via an ad hoc ...rl.af.mil 12a. DISTRIBUTION / AVAILABILITY STATEENT APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE; DISTRIBUTION UNLIMITED. 12b. DISTRIBUTION CODE 13. ABSTRACT...Experimentation Directorate (J9) required expansion of its joint semi-automated forces (JSAF) code capabilities; including number of entities, behavior complexity

Operation Urgent Fury - Grenada

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-11-01

Urgent Fury : the planning and execution of joint operations in Grenada, 12 October-2 November 1983 / Ronald H. Cole. p . cm...meeting, Secretary of State George P . Shultz and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General John W. Vessey, Jr., USA, warned the Special Situation...Group (RIG) of the National Security Council (NSC), on 12 October, Langhorne A. Motley, Assistant Secretary of State for Inter-American Affairs

Vision Hampton Roads : strategy committee minutes & attendance.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-02-22

February 20, 2009 : HRP Executive Committee Meeting, Looking Back, Looking Forward : March 20, 2009 : HRP Board Meeting, Accolades & Action, Doing Things Jointly with Comprehensive : Economic Development Strategies : April 17,...

Executive Summary of the American Heart Association and American Thoracic Society Joint Guidelines for Pediatric Pulmonary Hypertension

PubMed Central

Ivy, D. Dunbar; Archer, Stephen L.; Wilson, Kevin

2016-01-01

Although pulmonary hypertension (PH) contributes significantly to poor outcomes in diverse pediatric diseases, approaches toward the care of children with PH have been limited by the lack of consensus guidelines from experts in the field. In a joint effort from the American Heart Association and American Thoracic Society, a committee of experienced clinicians was formed to systematically identify, synthesize, and appraise relevant evidence and then to formulate evidence-based recommendations regarding the diagnosis and management of pediatric PH. This brief report is an executive summary of the officially approved guidelines developed by the committee, highlighting a few key recommendations regarding the care of children with PH. Guidelines and the rationale for grading the strength of each recommendation are included in the online supplement. PMID:27689707

Reconfigurable manufacturing execution system for pipe cutting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yin, Y. H.; Xie, J. Y.

2011-08-01

This article presents a reconfigurable manufacturing execution system (RMES) filling the gap between enterprise resource planning and resource layer for pipe-cutting production with mass customisation and rapid adaptation to dynamic market, which consists of planning and scheduling layer and executive control layer. Starting from customer's task and process requirements, the cutting trajectories are planned under generalised mathematical model able to reconfigure in accordance with various intersecting types' joint, and all tasks are scheduled by nesting algorithm to maximise the utilisation rate of rough material. This RMES for pipe cutting has been effectively implemented in more than 100 companies.

JEDI - an executive dashboard and decision support system for lean global military medical resource and logistics management.

PubMed

Sloane, Elliot B; Rosow, Eric; Adam, Joe; Shine, Dave

2006-01-01

Each individual U.S. Air Force, Army, and Navy Surgeon General has integrated oversight of global medical supplies and resources using the Joint Medical Asset Repository (JMAR). A Business Intelligence system called the JMAR Executive Dashboard Initiative (JEDI) was developed over a three-year period to add real-time interactive data-mining tools and executive dashboards. Medical resources can now be efficiently reallocated to military, veteran, family, or civilian purposes and inventories can be maintained at lean levels with peaks managed by interactive dashboards that reduce workload and errors.

Old adults perform activities of daily living near their maximal capabilities.

PubMed

Hortobágyi, Tibor; Mizelle, Chris; Beam, Stacey; DeVita, Paul

2003-05-01

Old adults' ability to execute activities of daily living (ADLs) declines with age. One possible reason for this decline is that the execution of customary motor tasks requires a substantially greater effort in old compared with young adults relative to their available maximal capacity. We tested the hypothesis that the relative effort (i.e., the percentage of joint moment relative to maximal joint moment) to execute ADLs is higher in old adults compared with young adults. Healthy young adults (n = 13; mean age, 22 years) and old adults (n = 14; mean age, 74 years) ascended and descended stairs and rose from a chair and performed maximal-effort isometric supine leg press. Using inverse dynamics analysis, we determined knee joint moments in ADLs and computed relative effort. Compared with young adults, old adults had 60% lower maximal leg press moments, 53% slower knee angular velocity at peak torque, and 27% lower knee joint moments in the ADLs (all p <.05). Relative effort in ascent was 54% (SD +/- 16%) and 78% (+/-20%) in young and old adults, respectively; in descent, it was 42% (+/-20%) and 88% (+/-43%); and in chair rise, it was 42% (+/-19%) and 80% (+/-34%) (all p <.05). The relative electromyographic activity of the vastus lateralis and the coactivity of the biceps femoris associated with this relative effort were, respectively, 2- and 1.6-fold greater in old compared with young adults in the 3 ADLs (p <.05). For healthy old adults, the difficulty that arises while performing ADLs may be due more to working at a higher level of effort relative to their maximum capability than to the absolute functional demands imposed by the task.

International Space Station Execution Replanning Process: Trends and Implications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McCormick, Robet J.

2007-01-01

International Space Station is a joint venture. Because of this, ISS execution planning- planning within the week for the ISS requires coordination across multiple partner, and the associated processes and tools to allow this coordination to occur. These processes and tools are currently defined and are extensively used. This paper summarizes these processes, and documents the current data trends associated with these processes and tools, with a focus on the metrics provided from the ISS Planning Product Change Request (PPCR) tool. As NASA's Vision for Space Exploration and general Human spaceflight trends are implemented, the probability of joint venture long duration programs such as ISS, with varying levels of intergovernmental and/or corporate partnership, will increase. Therefore, the results of this PPCR analysis serve as current Lessons learned for the ISS and for further similar ventures.

Neural mechanisms and models underlying joint action.

PubMed

Chersi, Fabian

2011-06-01

Humans, in particular, and to a lesser extent also other species of animals, possess the impressive capability of smoothly coordinating their actions with those of others. The great amount of work done in recent years in neuroscience has provided new insights into the processes involved in joint action, intention understanding, and task sharing. In particular, the discovery of mirror neurons, which fire both when animals execute actions and when they observe the same actions done by other individuals, has shed light on the intimate relationship between perception and action elucidating the direct contribution of motor knowledge to action understanding. Up to date, however, a detailed description of the neural processes involved in these phenomena is still mostly lacking. Building upon data from single neuron recordings in monkeys observing the actions of a demonstrator and then executing the same or a complementary action, this paper describes the functioning of a biologically constraint neural network model of the motor and mirror systems during joint action. In this model, motor sequences are encoded as independent neuronal chains that represent concatenations of elementary motor acts leading to a specific goal. Action execution and recognition are achieved through the propagation of activity within specific chains. Due to the dual property of mirror neurons, the same architecture is capable of smoothly integrating and switching between observed and self-generated action sequences, thus allowing to evaluate multiple hypotheses simultaneously, understand actions done by others, and to respond in an appropriate way.

Biomechanics Analysis of Combat Sport (Silat) By Using Motion Capture System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zulhilmi Kaharuddin, Muhammad; Badriah Khairu Razak, Siti; Ikram Kushairi, Muhammad; Syawal Abd. Rahman, Mohamed; An, Wee Chang; Ngali, Z.; Siswanto, W. A.; Salleh, S. M.; Yusup, E. M.

2017-01-01

‘Silat’ is a Malay traditional martial art that is practiced in both amateur and in professional levels. The intensity of the motion spurs the scientific research in biomechanics. The main purpose of this abstract is to present the biomechanics method used in the study of ‘silat’. By using the 3D Depth Camera motion capture system, two subjects are to perform ‘Jurus Satu’ in three repetitions each. One subject is set as the benchmark for the research. The videos are captured and its data is processed using the 3D Depth Camera server system in the form of 16 3D body joint coordinates which then will be transformed into displacement, velocity and acceleration components by using Microsoft excel for data calculation and Matlab software for simulation of the body. The translated data obtained serves as an input to differentiate both subjects’ execution of the ‘Jurus Satu’. Nine primary movements with the addition of five secondary movements are observed visually frame by frame from the simulation obtained to get the exact frame that the movement takes place. Further analysis involves the differentiation of both subjects’ execution by referring to the average mean and standard deviation of joints for each parameter stated. The findings provide useful data for joints kinematic parameters as well as to improve the execution of ‘Jurus Satu’ and to exhibit the process of learning a movement that is relatively unknown by the use of a motion capture system.

A hierarchical competing systems model of the emergence and early development of executive function

PubMed Central

Marcovitch, Stuart; Zelazo, Philip David

2010-01-01

The hierarchical competing systems model (HCSM) provides a framework for understanding the emergence and early development of executive function – the cognitive processes underlying the conscious control of behavior – in the context of search for hidden objects. According to this model, behavior is determined by the joint influence of a developmentally invariant habit system and a conscious representational system that becomes increasingly influential as children develop. This article describes a computational formalization of the HCSM, reviews behavioral and computational research consistent with the model, and suggests directions for future research on the development of executive function. PMID:19120405

Development of the joint munitions planning system - a planning tool for the ammunition community.

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

Hummel, J. R.; Winiecki, A. L.; Fowler, R. S.

2004-10-01

The United States Army Joint Munitions Command (JMC) is the executive agent for the Single Manager for Conventional Ammunition (SMCA). As such the JMC is responsible for the storage and transportation of all Service's SMCA as well as non-SMCA munitions. Part of the JMC mission requires that complex depot capacity studies, transportation capabilities analyses, peacetime re-allocations/ redistribution plans and time-phased deployment distribution plans be developed. Beginning in 1999 the Joint Munitions Planning System (JMPS) was developed to provide sourcing and movement solutions of ammunition for military planners.

Why Army Program Managers Struggle As Life Cycle Managers: A Study of the PM’s Roles, Responsibilities, and Barriers In the Execution of Operations and Support

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-09-01

Support Strategies (PBPSS), throughout the system life cycle .  Maximizing competition, to include small business participation.  Developing...NAVAL POSTGRADUATE SCHOOL MONTEREY, CALIFORNIA JOINT APPLIED PROJECT WHY ARMY PROGRAM MANAGERS STRUGGLE AS LIFE CYCLE MANAGERS...SUBTITLE WHY ARMY PROGRAM MANAGERS STRUGGLE AS LIFE CYCLE MANAGERS: A STUDY OF THE PM’S ROLES, RESPONSIBILITIES, AND BARRIERS IN THE EXECUTION OF

Executive Summary - Natural Gas and the Transformation of the U.S. Energy Sector: Electricity

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

Logan, J.; Heath, G.; Macknick, J.

In November 2012, the Joint Institute for Strategic Energy Analysis (JISEA) released a new report, 'Natural Gas and the Transformation of the U.S. Energy Sector: Electricity.' The study provides a new methodological approach to estimate natural gas related greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, tracks trends in regulatory and voluntary industry practices, and explores various electricity futures. The Executive Summary provides key findings, insights, data, and figures from this major study.

Pregnant Women's Knowledge of and Attitudes to HIV Testing at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi.

PubMed

Addo, Vn

2005-06-01

SummaryA questionnaire survey on the knowledge about human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) and attitudes to voluntary counselling and testing (VCT) in pregnancy of 334 antenatal attendants at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) was conducted. The survey showed that HIV/AIDS is recognized as a life-threatening condition and is mainly acquired through unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected partner, use of unsterile sharp instruments and blood transfusion. Knowledge about mother to child transmission (MTCT) was lacking.The majority of women who had done the test did so as a pre-requisite for church blessing of their marriage.VCT would be acceptable especially when anonymity is ensured and drug treatment is available for mother and child should the pregnant woman test positive for HIV.

More than Meets the Eye: A Primer for "Timing of Locomotor Recovery from Anoxia Modulated by the white Gene in Drosophila melanogaster".

PubMed

Hersh, Bradley M

2016-12-01

SummaryA single gene might have several functions within an organism, and so mutational loss of that gene has multiple effects across different physiological systems in the organism. Though the white gene in Drosophila melanogaster was identified originally for its effect on fly eye color, an article by Xiao and Robertson in the June 2016 issue of GENETICS describes a function for the white gene in the response of Drosophila to oxygen deprivation. This Primer article provides background information on the white gene, the phenomenon of pleiotropy, and the molecular and genetic approaches used in the study to demonstrate a new behavioral function for the white gene. Copyright © 2016 by the Genetics Society of America.

VA/DoD Joint Executive Council FY 2009: Joint Strategic Plan FY 2010-2012

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-01-01

through the Military Health System (MHS) Population Health Portal . HEC Traumatic Brain Injury and Psychological Health In FY 2009, VA and DoD made...available using the Deployment Occupational and Environmental Health Surveillance Portal . TBI and MH assessment tools were evaluated and monitored through...with increased access, VA maintained the frequency of encounters for treatment of PTSD and other MH conditions in Veterans of prior eras. To forecast

The role of proprioception and neuromuscular stability in carpal instabilities.

PubMed

Hagert, E; Lluch, A; Rein, S

2016-01-01

Carpal stability has traditionally been defined as dependent on the articular congruity of joint surfaces, the static stability maintained by intact ligaments, and the dynamic stability caused by muscle contractions resulting in a compression of joint surfaces. In the past decade, a fourth factor in carpal stability has been proposed, involving the neuromuscular and proprioceptive control of joints. The proprioception of the wrist originates from afferent signals elicited by sensory end organs (mechanoreceptors) in ligaments and joint capsules that elicit spinal reflexes for immediate joint stability, as well as higher order neuromuscular influx to the cerebellum and sensorimotor cortices for planning and executing joint control. The aim of this review is to provide an understanding of the role of proprioception and neuromuscular control in carpal instabilities by delineating the sensory innervation and the neuromuscular control of the carpus, as well as descriptions of clinical applications of proprioception in carpal instabilities. © The Author(s) 2015.

Interactive robot control system and method of use

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Abdallah, Muhammad E. (Inventor); Sanders, Adam M. (Inventor); Platt, Robert (Inventor); Reiland, Matthew J. (Inventor); Linn, Douglas Martin (Inventor)

2012-01-01

A robotic system includes a robot having joints, actuators, and sensors, and a distributed controller. The controller includes command-level controller, embedded joint-level controllers each controlling a respective joint, and a joint coordination-level controller coordinating motion of the joints. A central data library (CDL) centralizes all control and feedback data, and a user interface displays a status of each joint, actuator, and sensor using the CDL. A parameterized action sequence has a hierarchy of linked events, and allows the control data to be modified in real time. A method of controlling the robot includes transmitting control data through the various levels of the controller, routing all control and feedback data to the CDL, and displaying status and operation of the robot using the CDL. The parameterized action sequences are generated for execution by the robot, and a hierarchy of linked events is created within the sequence.

Evaluation of rubblization project in Ohio : executive summary report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-03-01

Concrete pavements are highly susceptible to variations in temperature. During summer months, the concrete pavements expand and, contract during winter months. Such movements, particularly at the joints in concrete pavements during winter months, exe...

Adapting The Joint Commission's Seven Foundations of Safe and Effective Transitions of Care to Home

PubMed Central

Labson, Margherita C.

2015-01-01

The purpose of this article is to describe The Joint Commission's 7 foundations of safe and effective transitions of care to home: (a) leadership support; (b) multidisciplinary collaboration; (c) early identification of patients/clients at risk; (d) transitional planning; (e) medication management; (f) patient and family action/engagement; and (g) transfer of information. These foundations were identified by The Joint Commission after a review of published research; focus groups with healthcare professionals involved in transitions of care; and visits to diverse healthcare organizations. The author, who is the executive director of The Joint Commission's Home Care Accreditation Program, illustrates how healthcare organizations are adapting the 7 foundations of safe and effective transitions of care to home. PMID:25742092

Binational border transportation infrastructure : needs assessment study, executive summary.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2004-07-01

In 1994, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and Mexicos Secretariat of Communications and Transportation (Secretara de Comunicaciones y Transportes (SCT)) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) outlining the creation of the Joint Wo...

Workspace Safe Operation of a Force- or Impedance-Controlled Robot

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Abdallah, Muhammad E. (Inventor); Hargrave, Brian (Inventor); Strawser, Philip A. (Inventor); Yamokoski, John D. (Inventor)

2013-01-01

A method of controlling a robotic manipulator of a force- or impedance-controlled robot within an unstructured workspace includes imposing a saturation limit on a static force applied by the manipulator to its surrounding environment, and may include determining a contact force between the manipulator and an object in the unstructured workspace, and executing a dynamic reflex when the contact force exceeds a threshold to thereby alleviate an inertial impulse not addressed by the saturation limited static force. The method may include calculating a required reflex torque to be imparted by a joint actuator to a robotic joint. A robotic system includes a robotic manipulator having an unstructured workspace and a controller that is electrically connected to the manipulator, and which controls the manipulator using force- or impedance-based commands. The controller, which is also disclosed herein, automatically imposes the saturation limit and may execute the dynamic reflex noted above.

Enhancing Fires and Maneuver Capability Through Greater Air-Ground Joint Interdependence

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-01-01

and other source material. We thank our study points of contact at ACC/A3F, Col Louis Bochain, Col Ron Watkins , and Col John Allison, for giving us...TACP, and we thank Lt Col Seth Bretscher (505 OG/CD) for his insights and innovative ideas regarding the planning and execution of counterland...sensitive targeting. 21 Discussions with and materials from Lt Col Seth Bretscher, 2006. Options for Enhancing Joint Fires and Maneuver 33 Figure

Joint Precision Approach and Landing System Increment 1A (JPALS Inc 1A)

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-12-01

Selected Acquisition Report ( SAR ) RCS: DD-A&T(Q&A)823-238 Joint Precision Approach and Landing System Increment 1A (JPALS Inc 1A) As of FY 2017...President’s Budget Defense Acquisition Management Information Retrieval (DAMIR) March 10, 2016 11:30:56 UNCLASSIFIED JPALS Inc 1A December 2015 SAR ...Cost JPALS Inc 1A December 2015 SAR March 10, 2016 11:30:56 UNCLASSIFIED 3 PB - President’s Budget PE - Program Element PEO - Program Executive Officer

Can the Army Provide Bulk Petroleum Support to Joint Force 2020?

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-03-01

Petroleum Officer (JPO) and one or more Sub Area Petroleum Officers ( SAPO ). The JPO coordinates petroleum support to all forces in a theater on behalf...position is the SAPO , established by the Combatant Commander or a Joint Force Commander (JFC) to fulfill bulk petroleum planning and execution in a...section of the theater for which the JPO is responsible.7 A key duty of the SAPO is to advise the JFC and his/her staff on petroleum logistics

History of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The Joint Chiefs of Staff and National Policy. Volume 8, 1961 - 1964

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-01-01

Focusing on Internal Security and Civic Action 22" Concentrating on Civic Action 227 Case Studies 231 Cuba: Threat and Target 232 16. Middle East...colleagues, and particularly with senior civilians—more so, possibly, than was actually the case . The Chief Executive extended General LeMay’s term until 1...in order to make his program more palatable politically. In any case , his testimony triggered—or perhaps provided the pretext for—another JCS debate

Method and apparatus for calibrating multi-axis load cells in a dexterous robot

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wampler, II, Charles W. (Inventor); Platt, Jr., Robert J. (Inventor)

2012-01-01

A robotic system includes a dexterous robot having robotic joints, angle sensors adapted for measuring joint angles at a corresponding one of the joints, load cells for measuring a set of strain values imparted to a corresponding one of the load cells during a predetermined pose of the robot, and a host machine. The host machine is electrically connected to the load cells and angle sensors, and receives the joint angle values and strain values during the predetermined pose. The robot presses together mating pairs of load cells to form the poses. The host machine executes an algorithm to process the joint angles and strain values, and from the set of all calibration matrices that minimize error in force balance equations, selects the set of calibration matrices that is closest in a value to a pre-specified value. A method for calibrating the load cells via the algorithm is also provided.

Why Does Joint Attention Look Atypical in Autism?

PubMed Central

Gernsbacher, Morton Ann; Stevenson, Jennifer L.; Khandakar, Suraiya; Goldsmith, H. Hill

2014-01-01

This essay answers the question of why autistic children are less likely to initiate joint attention (e.g., use their index finger to point to indicate interest in something) and why they are less likely to respond to bids for their joint attention (e.g., turn their heads to look at something to which another person points). It reviews empirical evidence that autistic toddlers, children, adolescents, and adults can attend covertly, even to social stimuli, such as the direction in which another person’s eyes are gazing. It also reviews empirical evidence that autistics of various ages understand the intentionality of other persons’ actions. The essay suggests that autistics’ atypical resistance to distraction, atypical skill at parallel perception, and atypical execution of volitional actions underlie their atypical manifestations of joint attention. PMID:25520747

Centralysed managment system for the network of optical telescopes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kozyryev, Ye. S.; Sybiryakova, Ye. S.; Shulga, O. V.

2013-12-01

Description and results of work conducted in research institute "Nikolaev astronomical observatory" (Nikolaev, Ukraine) and Shanghai astronomical observatory (Shanghai, China) are presented in the article. The results of joint observations executed during the first year of the project are given.

National ITS Program Plan Executive Summary

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1995-03-01

THE PURPOSE OF THE NATIONAL ITS PROGRAM PLAN IS TO GUIDE THE DEVELOPMENT AND DEPLOYMENT OF INTELLIGENT TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS (ITS) IN THE UNITED STATES. THIS FIRST EDITION OF THE PLAN WAS A JOINT EFFORT OF ITS AMERICA AND THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMEN...

Laredo District Coahuila/Nuevo Leon/Tamaulipas border master plan : executive summary.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-06-01

Border Master Plans, as defined and supported by the U.S./Mexico Joint Working : Committee on Transportation Planning and Programming, the Federal Highway Administration, : and the U.S. Department of State, are comprehensive long range plans to inven...

Using three dimensional silicone ``boots`` to solve complex remedial design problems in curtain walls

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

Chen, Y.J.

1998-12-31

Stick system curtain wall leak problems are frequently caused by water entry at the splice joints of the curtain wall frame and failure of the internal metal joinery seals. Remedial solutions involving occupied buildings inevitably face the multiple constraints of existing construction and business operations not present during the original curtain wall construction. In most cases, even partial disassembly of the curtain wall for internal seal repairs is not feasible. Remedial solutions which must be executed from the exterior of the curtain wall often involve wet-applied or preformed sealant tape bridge joints. However, some of the more complex joints cannotmore » be repaired effectively or economically with the conventional bridge joint. Fortunately, custom fabricated three-dimensional preformed sealant boots are becoming available to address these situations. This paper discusses the design considerations and the selective use of three-dimensional preformed boots in sealing complex joint geometry that would not be effective with the conventional two-dimensional bridge joint.« less

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

Barr, Jonathan L.; Tuffner, Francis K.; Hadley, Mark D.

This document contains the Integrated Assessment Plan (IAP) for the Phase 2 Operational Demonstration (OD) of the Smart Power Infrastructure Demonstration for Energy Reliability (SPIDERS) Joint Capability Technology Demonstration (JCTD) project. SPIDERS will be conducted over a three year period with Phase 2 being conducted at Fort Carson, Colorado. This document includes the Operational Demonstration Execution Plan (ODEP) and the Operational Assessment Execution Plan (OAEP), as approved by the Operational Manager (OM) and the Integrated Management Team (IMT). The ODEP describes the process by which the OD is conducted and the OAEP describes the process by which the data collectedmore » from the OD is processed. The execution of the OD, in accordance with the ODEP and the subsequent execution of the OAEP, will generate the necessary data for the Quick Look Report (QLR) and the Utility Assessment Report (UAR). These reports will assess the ability of the SPIDERS JCTD to meet the four critical requirements listed in the Implementation Directive (ID).« less

32 CFR 215.6 - Responsibilities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... Defense Department of Defense (Continued) OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE (CONTINUED) MISCELLANEOUS... Secretary of the Army is designated as the Executive Agent for the Department of Defense in all matters... responsiveness among Defense agencies, military departments, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Commanders-in-Chief...

32 CFR 215.6 - Responsibilities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... Defense Department of Defense (Continued) OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE (CONTINUED) MISCELLANEOUS... Secretary of the Army is designated as the Executive Agent for the Department of Defense in all matters... responsiveness among Defense agencies, military departments, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Commanders-in-Chief...

32 CFR 215.6 - Responsibilities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... Defense Department of Defense (Continued) OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE (CONTINUED) MISCELLANEOUS... Secretary of the Army is designated as the Executive Agent for the Department of Defense in all matters... responsiveness among Defense agencies, military departments, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Commanders-in-Chief...

32 CFR 215.6 - Responsibilities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... Defense Department of Defense (Continued) OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE (CONTINUED) MISCELLANEOUS... Secretary of the Army is designated as the Executive Agent for the Department of Defense in all matters... responsiveness among Defense agencies, military departments, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Commanders-in-Chief...

32 CFR 215.6 - Responsibilities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... Defense Department of Defense (Continued) OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE (CONTINUED) MISCELLANEOUS... Secretary of the Army is designated as the Executive Agent for the Department of Defense in all matters... responsiveness among Defense agencies, military departments, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Commanders-in-Chief...

Merlin: an integrated path differential absorption (IPDA) lidar for global methane remote sensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bode, M.; Alpers, M.; Millet, B.; Ehret, G.; Flamant, P.

2017-11-01

The Methane Remote Sensing LIDAR Mission (MERLIN) is a joint French-German cooperation on the development, launch and operation of a climate monitoring satellite, executed by the French Space Agency CNES and the German Space Administration DLR.

Merlin: an integrated path differential absorption (IPDA) lidar for global methane remote sensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bode, M.; Wührer, C.; Alpers, M.; Millet, B.; Ehret, G.; Bousquet, P.

2017-09-01

The Methane Remote Sensing LIDAR Mission (MERLIN) is a joint French-German cooperation on the development, launch and operation of a climate monitoring satellite, executed by the French Space Agency CNES and the German Space Administration DLR.

THE FEASIBILITY OF UTILIZING SOLID WASTES FOR BUILDING MATERIALS. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

EPA Science Inventory

This report focuses on two phases of a suggested four phase study to evaluate the technological and commercial possibilities of waste - derived composites. The first phase involved a joint and comprehensive literature search to identify wastes with potential as building materials...

CLEANING UP MIXED WASTE STREAMS--THE TANK TRUCK WASHING EXAMPLE

EPA Science Inventory

This Executive Report describes the joint venture of EPA's Office of Energy, Minerals and Industry and the Matlack Corporation into the construction and demonstration of a full-scale tank truck wastewater treatment plant. The report covers the technical and economic viability of ...

20 CFR 903.2 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 3 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Definitions. 903.2 Section 903.2 Employees... § 903.2 Definitions. (a) The term agency includes any executive department, military department... that is maintained by the Joint Board, including, but not limited to, his education, financial...

75 FR 32555 - Consolidated Audit Trail

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-06-08

... act jointly in developing a national market system (``NMS'') plan to develop, implement, and maintain... markets, there is a heightened need for regulators to have efficient access to a more robust and effective cross-market order and execution tracking system. Currently, many of the national securities exchanges...

Evaluation of alternative dowel bar materials and coatings : executive summary report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-01-01

The inclusion of steel dowel bars to transfer forces across sawed or formed transverse joints from one concrete pavement slab to another while permitting expansion and contraction movements of the concrete has been a basic design practice in most U.S...

20 CFR 903.2 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 4 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Definitions. 903.2 Section 903.2 Employees' Benefits JOINT BOARD FOR THE ENROLLMENT OF ACTUARIES ACCESS TO RECORDS Records Pertaining to Individuals § 903.2 Definitions. (a) The term agency includes any executive department, military department...

20 CFR 901.33 - Initiation of proceeding.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

....33 Employees' Benefits JOINT BOARD FOR THE ENROLLMENT OF ACTUARIES REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE... believe that an enrolled actuary has violated any provision of the laws or regulations governing... the enrolled actuary that, in the opinion of the Executive Director, his/her conduct is in violation...

20 CFR 901.33 - Initiation of proceeding.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

....33 Employees' Benefits JOINT BOARD FOR THE ENROLLMENT OF ACTUARIES REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE... believe that an enrolled actuary has violated any provision of the laws or regulations governing... the enrolled actuary that, in the opinion of the Executive Director, his/her conduct is in violation...

20 CFR 901.33 - Initiation of proceeding.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

....33 Employees' Benefits JOINT BOARD FOR THE ENROLLMENT OF ACTUARIES REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE... believe that an enrolled actuary has violated any provision of the laws or regulations governing... the enrolled actuary that, in the opinion of the Executive Director, his/her conduct is in violation...

20 CFR 903.2 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 4 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Definitions. 903.2 Section 903.2 Employees' Benefits JOINT BOARD FOR THE ENROLLMENT OF ACTUARIES ACCESS TO RECORDS Records Pertaining to Individuals § 903.2 Definitions. (a) The term agency includes any executive department, military department...

20 CFR 903.2 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 4 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Definitions. 903.2 Section 903.2 Employees' Benefits JOINT BOARD FOR THE ENROLLMENT OF ACTUARIES ACCESS TO RECORDS Records Pertaining to Individuals § 903.2 Definitions. (a) The term agency includes any executive department, military department...

20 CFR 901.33 - Initiation of proceeding.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

....33 Employees' Benefits JOINT BOARD FOR THE ENROLLMENT OF ACTUARIES REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE... believe that an enrolled actuary has violated any provision of the laws or regulations governing... the enrolled actuary that, in the opinion of the Executive Director, his/her conduct is in violation...

Joint US/UK Vortex Tracking Program at Heathrow International Airport Volume: I Executive Summary

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1976-03-01

From May 1974 through June 1975 the approach region to Runway 28R at Heathrow International Airport was equipped with aircraft wake vortex tracking equipment. The vortices from approximately 13,000 aircraft were monitored along with the attendant met...

Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical and Biological Defense Collaboration Study

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-03-01

Thesis Co-Advisor Kevin J. Maher Second Reader Robert F. Dell Chair, Department of Operations Research iv THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT...none have been previously done on technology transfer and collaboration. Professor Sazali Wahab et al. of Universiti Putra Malaysia examined the

20 CFR 901.33 - Initiation of proceeding.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

....33 Employees' Benefits JOINT BOARD FOR THE ENROLLMENT OF ACTUARIES REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE... believe that an enrolled actuary has violated any provision of the laws or regulations governing... the enrolled actuary that, in the opinion of the Executive Director, his/her conduct is in violation...

Adaptive Control of Exoskeleton Robots for Periodic Assistive Behaviours Based on EMG Feedback Minimisation.

PubMed

Peternel, Luka; Noda, Tomoyuki; Petrič, Tadej; Ude, Aleš; Morimoto, Jun; Babič, Jan

2016-01-01

In this paper we propose an exoskeleton control method for adaptive learning of assistive joint torque profiles in periodic tasks. We use human muscle activity as feedback to adapt the assistive joint torque behaviour in a way that the muscle activity is minimised. The user can then relax while the exoskeleton takes over the task execution. If the task is altered and the existing assistive behaviour becomes inadequate, the exoskeleton gradually adapts to the new task execution so that the increased muscle activity caused by the new desired task can be reduced. The advantage of the proposed method is that it does not require biomechanical or dynamical models. Our proposed learning system uses Dynamical Movement Primitives (DMPs) as a trajectory generator and parameters of DMPs are modulated using Locally Weighted Regression. Then, the learning system is combined with adaptive oscillators that determine the phase and frequency of motion according to measured Electromyography (EMG) signals. We tested the method with real robot experiments where subjects wearing an elbow exoskeleton had to move an object of an unknown mass according to a predefined reference motion. We further evaluated the proposed approach on a whole-arm exoskeleton to show that it is able to adaptively derive assistive torques even for multiple-joint motion.

Adaptive Control of Exoskeleton Robots for Periodic Assistive Behaviours Based on EMG Feedback Minimisation

PubMed Central

Peternel, Luka; Noda, Tomoyuki; Petrič, Tadej; Ude, Aleš; Morimoto, Jun; Babič, Jan

2016-01-01

In this paper we propose an exoskeleton control method for adaptive learning of assistive joint torque profiles in periodic tasks. We use human muscle activity as feedback to adapt the assistive joint torque behaviour in a way that the muscle activity is minimised. The user can then relax while the exoskeleton takes over the task execution. If the task is altered and the existing assistive behaviour becomes inadequate, the exoskeleton gradually adapts to the new task execution so that the increased muscle activity caused by the new desired task can be reduced. The advantage of the proposed method is that it does not require biomechanical or dynamical models. Our proposed learning system uses Dynamical Movement Primitives (DMPs) as a trajectory generator and parameters of DMPs are modulated using Locally Weighted Regression. Then, the learning system is combined with adaptive oscillators that determine the phase and frequency of motion according to measured Electromyography (EMG) signals. We tested the method with real robot experiments where subjects wearing an elbow exoskeleton had to move an object of an unknown mass according to a predefined reference motion. We further evaluated the proposed approach on a whole-arm exoskeleton to show that it is able to adaptively derive assistive torques even for multiple-joint motion. PMID:26881743

High Energy Laser Joint Technology Office: a mission overview

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seeley, Don D.; Slater, John M.

2004-10-01

The High Energy Laser Joint Technology Office (HEL-JTO) was established in 2000 for the purpose of developing and executing a comprehensive investment strategy for HEL science and technology that would underpin weapons development. The JTO is currently sponsoring 80 programs across industry, academia, and government agencies with a budget of approximately $60 million. The competitively awarded programs are chosen to advance the current state of the art in HEL technology and fill technology gaps, thus providing a broad capability that can be harvested in acquisition programs by the military services.

AAE and AAOMR Joint Position Statement: Use of Cone Beam Computed Tomography in Endodontics 2015 Update.

PubMed

2015-10-01

The following statement was prepared by the Special Committee to Revise the Joint American Association of Endodontists/American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology Position on Cone Beam Computed Tomography, and approved by the AAE Board of Directors and AAOMR Executive Council in May 2015. AAE members may reprint this position statement for distribution to patients or referring dentists. Copyright © 2015 American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology and American Association of Endodontists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

SCS-CN based time-distributed sediment yield model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tyagi, J. V.; Mishra, S. K.; Singh, Ranvir; Singh, V. P.

2008-05-01

SummaryA sediment yield model is developed to estimate the temporal rates of sediment yield from rainfall events on natural watersheds. The model utilizes the SCS-CN based infiltration model for computation of rainfall-excess rate, and the SCS-CN-inspired proportionality concept for computation of sediment-excess. For computation of sedimentographs, the sediment-excess is routed to the watershed outlet using a single linear reservoir technique. Analytical development of the model shows the ratio of the potential maximum erosion (A) to the potential maximum retention (S) of the SCS-CN method is constant for a watershed. The model is calibrated and validated on a number of events using the data of seven watersheds from India and the USA. Representative values of the A/S ratio computed for the watersheds from calibration are used for the validation of the model. The encouraging results of the proposed simple four parameter model exhibit its potential in field application.

The role of executive functions in bilingual children with reading difficulties.

PubMed

Jalali-Moghadam, Niloufar; Kormi-Nouri, Reza

2015-06-01

To explore the joint effect of reading difficulties (RD) and bilingualism on executive functions, 190 children of four groups of 9-12 year-olds (41 bilinguals with RD, 45 monolinguals with RD, 45 bilinguals without RD, and 59 monolinguals without RD) were examined on the Concentration game, Tower of Hanoi, and Stroop as measures of executive functioning tapping into inhibitory/attentional control, working memory and planning ability. The most prominent finding was that in terms of RD, the speed of performances decreased dramatically. This general decrease was more pronounced for bilingual children with RD than for their monolingual counterparts. In conclusion, the findings suggest that while bilinguals gain more from executive functions in normal reading, they lose in terms of RD. Such an outcome confirms that executive functions are essential components of both reading and bilingualism, which depending on whether reading conditions are normal or difficult will produce cognitive advantages or disadvantages. Further, it is argued that dissimilarity between the Farsi and Swedish languages may complicate handling of such a situation. © 2015 Scandinavian Psychological Associations and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Public Affairs & Strategic Communications (NGB-PA) - Personal Staff - Joint

Science.gov Websites

Guard ARNG Media ARNG Public Affairs Family Services Youth Programs Survivor Services Military Funeral General Officer Management Public Affairs Executive Support Services Legislative Liaison Special Staff : Personal Staff : Public Affairs Public Affairs & Strategic Communications (NGB-PA) Mission: Assess

MRT 5711 - Scope Radiochemical Analysis Comparison: Joint LANL-LLNL FY17 L-2 Milestone

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

Murray, S. D.; Lee, A. S.

A 2016 Level-1 milestone highlighted surprising differences in fundamental data used by the two US design laboratories. To better understand and ultimately resolve those differences, two Level-2 milestones were developed for execution in FY-17 and FY-18.

Economic Restructuring and Emerging Patterns of Industrial Relations.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sleigh, Stephen R., Ed.

This book contains nine papers presented during a year-long series of seminars and a conference that analyzed the relationship between economic restructuring and industrial relations involving the joint academics, union leaders, government officials, business executives, and graduate fellows. These analyses include case studies from Western…

Promoting advanced traveler information systems among cellular and land-line phone users : SmarTraveler experience in Boston

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1997-01-01

In 1993 the SmarTraveler advanced traveler information system (ATIS) was introduced to travelers in the greater Boston area as part of an operational test jointly funded by FHWA and the Massachusetts Executive Office of Transportation and Constructio...

Early Osteoarthritis of the Trapeziometacarpal Joint Is Not Associated With Joint Instability during Typical Isometric Loading

PubMed Central

Halilaj, Eni; Moore, Douglas C.; Patel, Tarpit K.; Ladd, Amy L.; Weiss, Arnold-Peter C.; Crisco, Joseph J.

2015-01-01

The saddle-shaped trapeziometacarpal (TMC) joint contributes importantly to the function of the human thumb. A balance between mobility and stability is essential in this joint, which experiences high loads and is prone to osteoarthritis (OA). Since instability is considered a risk factor for TMC OA, we assessed TMC joint instability during the execution of three isometric functional tasks (key pinch, jar grasp, and jar twist) in 76 patients with early TMC OA and 44 asymptomatic controls. Computed tomography images were acquired while subjects held their hands relaxed and while they applied 80% of their maximum effort for each task. Six degree-of-freedom rigid body kinematics of the metacarpal with respect to the trapezium from the unloaded to the loaded task positions were computed in terms of a TMC joint coordinate system. Joint instability was expressed as a function of the metacarpal translation and the applied force. We found that the TMC joint was more unstable during a key pinch task than during a jar grasp or a jar twist task. Sex, age, and early OA did not have an effect on TMC joint instability, suggesting that instability during these three tasks is not a predisposing factor in TMC OA. PMID:25941135

The roles of associative and executive processes in creative cognition.

PubMed

Beaty, Roger E; Silvia, Paul J; Nusbaum, Emily C; Jauk, Emanuel; Benedek, Mathias

2014-10-01

How does the mind produce creative ideas? Past research has pointed to important roles of both executive and associative processes in creative cognition. But such work has largely focused on the influence of one ability or the other-executive or associative-so the extent to which both abilities may jointly affect creative thought remains unclear. Using multivariate structural equation modeling, we conducted two studies to determine the relative influences of executive and associative processes in domain-general creative cognition (i.e., divergent thinking). Participants completed a series of verbal fluency tasks, and their responses were analyzed by means of latent semantic analysis (LSA) and scored for semantic distance as a measure of associative ability. Participants also completed several measures of executive function-including broad retrieval ability (Gr) and fluid intelligence (Gf). Across both studies, we found substantial effects of both associative and executive abilities: As the average semantic distance between verbal fluency responses and cues increased, so did the creative quality of divergent-thinking responses (Study 1 and Study 2). Moreover, the creative quality of divergent-thinking responses was predicted by the executive variables-Gr (Study 1) and Gf (Study 2). Importantly, the effects of semantic distance and the executive function variables remained robust in the same structural equation model predicting divergent thinking, suggesting unique contributions of both constructs. The present research extends recent applications of LSA in creativity research and provides support for the notion that both associative and executive processes underlie the production of novel ideas.

Bob Meyer (right), acting deputy director of NASA Dryden, shakes hands with Les Bordelon, executive

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2002-01-01

Bob Meyer (on the right), acting deputy director of NASA's Dryden Flight Research Center, Edwards, California, shakes hands with Les Bordelon, executive director of Edwards Air Force Base. The handshake represents Dryden's acceptance of an Air Force C-20A delivered from Ramstein Air Base, Germany. The aircraft will be modified to carry equipment and experiments in support of both NASA and U.S. Air Force projects. The joint use of this aircraft is a result of the NASA Dryden/Edwards Air Force Base Alliance which shares some resources as cost-cutting measures.

Capitalizing on joint ventures to economize in nursing.

PubMed

Pressler, Jana L; Kenner, Carole A

2010-01-01

Many new nursing leaders assuming deanships, assistant, or interim deanships have limited education, experience, or background to prepare them for the job. To assist new deans and those aspiring to be deans, the authors of this department offer survival tips based on their personal experiences and insights. They address common issues, challenges, and opportunities that face academic executive teams, such as negotiating an executive contract, obtaining faculty lines, building effective work teams, managing difficult employees, and creating nimble organizational structure to respond to changing consumer, healthcare delivery, and community needs. The authors welcome counterpoint discussions with readers.

Community Relations - Public Affairs - Personal Staff - Joint Staff - The

Science.gov Websites

Report National Commission of the Future of the Army White Papers I am the Guard ARNG Media ARNG Public Public Affairs Executive Support Services Legislative Liaison Special Staff Directorate of Management : Public Affairs : Community Relations Community Relations The National Guard Bureau Civic Engagement

Satellite Technology Demonstration; Executive Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Federation of Rocky Mountain States, Inc., Denver, CO.

The Federation of Rocky Mountain States and the Satellite Technology Demonstration project (STD) have collaborated in an effort to provide low cost information delivery to rural areas of the Rockies. Though the goals and the financial support of this joint effort were initially confused, sites have now been selected, the communications technology…

49 CFR 805.735-2 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 7 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Definitions. 805.735-2 Section 805.735-2... EMPLOYEE RESPONSIBILITIES AND CONDUCT § 805.735-2 Definitions. As used in this part. Executive order means... means an individual, a corporation, a company, an association, a firm, a partnership, a society, a joint...

AUTOMATED GEOSPATICAL WATERSHED ASSESSMENT (AGWA): A GIS-BASED HYDROLOICAL MODELING TOOL FOR WATERSHED ASSESSMENT AND ANALYSIS

EPA Science Inventory

The Automated Geospatial Watershed Assessment tool (AGWA) is a GIS interface jointly developed by the USDA Agricultural Research Service, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the University of Arizona, and the University of Wyoming to automate the parameterization and execut...

Climate Change and the Joint Force: An Assessment

DTIC Science & Technology

remote areas of the world. The US military is able to execute these operations because it has functioning bases in which to project power . The ability...to possess stable power projection platforms is slowly turning into an assumption due to the threat climate change poses. Climate change volatility

29 CFR 31.12 - Effect on other regulations; supervision and coordination.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

.... 31.12 Section 31.12 Labor Office of the Secretary of Labor NONDISCRIMINATION IN FEDERALLY ASSISTED... be deemed to supersede any of the following (including future amendments thereof): (1) Executive... Personnel Administration,” issued jointly by the Secretaries of Defense, of Health, Education and Welfare...

77 FR 42765 - Request of the U.S. Intellectual Property Enforcement Coordinator for Public Comments...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-07-20

... OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET Request of the U.S. Intellectual Property Enforcement Coordinator for Public Comments: Development of the Joint Strategic Plan on Intellectual Property Enforcement AGENCY: Office of the U.S. Intellectual Property Enforcement Coordinator, Executive Office of the...

Collins Center Update. Volume 4, Issue 3, April-June 2002

DTIC Science & Technology

2002-06-01

a free play , computer-assisted war game. The objective of JLASS is to promote the joint professional military education of all participants by...gaming phase, they came together to execute their plans in a dynamic free play environment. A Center for Strategic Leadership spon- sored elective

32 CFR 813.6 - Planning and requesting combat documentation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... Joint Operation Planning and Execution System, that in turn, requests support from HQ AMC. HQ USAF can... 32 National Defense 6 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Planning and requesting combat documentation... SALES AND SERVICES VISUAL INFORMATION DOCUMENTATION PROGRAM § 813.6 Planning and requesting combat...

32 CFR 643.122 - Reserve facilities-Air Force and Navy use.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 4000.20B/AFR 400.27. Nothing in such joint regulation disallows use of DE outgrants to supplement.... The terms used in the interservice agreements and/or DE outgrants will be those acceptable to the... routed to the appropriate DE for execution of a formal permit. ...

78 FR 8498 - [Docket ID DoD-2013-OS-0016

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-02-06

... DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE Office of the Secretary [Docket ID DoD-2013-OS-0016] Manual for Courts-Martial; Proposed Amendments AGENCY: Joint Service Committee on Military Justice (JSC), DoD. ACTION: Annual Review of the Manual for Courts-Martial, United States. SUMMARY: Pursuant to Executive Order 12473...

15 CFR 296.10 - Third party in-kind contribution of research services.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... Foreign Trade NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE NIST EXTRAMURAL... services. NIST shall not issue a TIP award to a single recipient or joint venture whose proposed budget... party contributor of in-kind research has been executed by both parties and approved by NIST. ...

15 CFR 296.10 - Third party in-kind contribution of research services.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... Foreign Trade NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE NIST EXTRAMURAL... services. NIST shall not issue a TIP award to a single recipient or joint venture whose proposed budget... party contributor of in-kind research has been executed by both parties and approved by NIST. ...

15 CFR 296.10 - Third party in-kind contribution of research services.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... Foreign Trade NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE NIST EXTRAMURAL... services. NIST shall not issue a TIP award to a single recipient or joint venture whose proposed budget... party contributor of in-kind research has been executed by both parties and approved by NIST. ...

15 CFR 296.10 - Third party in-kind contribution of research services.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... Foreign Trade NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE NIST EXTRAMURAL... services. NIST shall not issue a TIP award to a single recipient or joint venture whose proposed budget... party contributor of in-kind research has been executed by both parties and approved by NIST. ...

15 CFR 296.10 - Third party in-kind contribution of research services.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... Foreign Trade NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE NIST EXTRAMURAL... services. NIST shall not issue a TIP award to a single recipient or joint venture whose proposed budget... party contributor of in-kind research has been executed by both parties and approved by NIST. ...

78 FR 64052 - Proposed Interagency Policy Statement Establishing Joint Standards for Assessing the Diversity...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-10-25

... learn more about diversity policies and practices, the OMWI Directors and staff held a series of... opportunity for regulated entities to provide input on assessment standards and for the Agencies to learn... of the organization including executive and managerial ranks. The entity holds management accountable...

Command and Control Warfare. Putting Another Tool in the War-Fighter’s Data Base

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-09-01

information dominance , friendly commanders will be able to work inside the enemy commander’s decision-making cycle forcing him to be reactive and thus cede the initiative and advantage to friendly forces. In any conflict, from large scale transregional to small scale, localized counter-insurgency, a joint or coalition team drawn together from the capabilities of each service and orchestrated by the joint force or theater- level commander will execute the responses of the United States armed forces. Units should perform their specific roles in accordance with the

Load- and skill-related changes in segmental contributions to a weightlifting movement.

PubMed

Enoka, R M

1988-04-01

An exemplary short duration, high-power, weightlifting event was examined to determine whether the ability to lift heavier loads and whether variations in the level of skill were accompanied by quantitative changes in selected aspects of lower extremity joint power-time histories. Six experienced weightlifters, three skilled and three less skilled, performed the double-knee-bend execution of the pull in Olympic weightlifting, a movement which lasted almost 1 s. Analysis-of-variance statistics were performed on selected peak and average values of power generated by the three skilled subjects as they lifted three loads (69, 77, and 86% of their competition maximum). The results indicated that the skilled subjects lifted heavier loads by increasing the average power, but not the peak power, about the knee and ankle joints. In addition, the changes with load were more subtle than a mere quantitative scaling and also seemed to be associated with a skill element in the form of variation in the duration of the phases of power production and absorption. Similarly, statistical differences (independent t-test) due to skill did not involve changes in the magnitude of power but rather the temporal organization of the movement. Thus, the ability to successfully execute the double-knee-bend movement depends on an athlete's ability to both generate a sufficient magnitude of joint power and to organize the phases of power production and absorption into an appropriate temporal sequence.

Imbalanced functional link between executive control network and reward network explain the online-game seeking behaviors in Internet gaming disorder.

PubMed

Dong, Guangheng; Lin, Xiao; Hu, Yanbo; Xie, Chunming; Du, Xiaoxia

2015-03-17

Literatures have shown that Internet gaming disorder (IGD) subjects show impaired executive control and enhanced reward sensitivities than healthy controls. However, how these two networks jointly affect the valuation process and drive IGD subjects' online-game-seeking behaviors remains unknown. Thirty-five IGD and 36 healthy controls underwent a resting-states scan in the MRI scanner. Functional connectivity (FC) was examined within control and reward network seeds regions, respectively. Nucleus accumbens (NAcc) was selected as the node to find the interactions between these two networks. IGD subjects show decreased FC in the executive control network and increased FC in the reward network when comparing with the healthy controls. When examining the correlations between the NAcc and the executive control/reward networks, the link between the NAcc - executive control network is negatively related with the link between NAcc - reward network. The changes (decrease/increase) in IGD subjects' brain synchrony in control/reward networks suggest the inefficient/overly processing within neural circuitry underlying these processes. The inverse proportion between control network and reward network in IGD suggest that impairments in executive control lead to inefficient inhibition of enhanced cravings to excessive online game playing. This might shed light on the mechanistic understanding of IGD.

Adaptive Postural Control for Joint Immobilization during Multitask Performance

PubMed Central

Hsu, Wei-Li

2014-01-01

Motor abundance is an essential feature of adaptive control. The range of joint combinations enabled by motor abundance provides the body with the necessary freedom to adopt different positions, configurations, and movements that allow for exploratory postural behavior. This study investigated the adaptation of postural control to joint immobilization during multi-task performance. Twelve healthy volunteers (6 males and 6 females; 21–29 yr) without any known neurological deficits, musculoskeletal conditions, or balance disorders participated in this study. The participants executed a targeting task, alone or combined with a ball-balancing task, while standing with free or restricted joint motions. The effects of joint configuration variability on center of mass (COM) stability were examined using uncontrolled manifold (UCM) analysis. The UCM method separates joint variability into two components: the first is consistent with the use of motor abundance, which does not affect COM position (VUCM); the second leads to COM position variability (VORT). The analysis showed that joints were coordinated such that their variability had a minimal effect on COM position. However, the component of joint variability that reflects the use of motor abundance to stabilize COM (VUCM) was significant decreased when the participants performed the combined task with immobilized joints. The component of joint variability that leads to COM variability (VORT) tended to increase with a reduction in joint degrees of freedom. The results suggested that joint immobilization increases the difficulty of stabilizing COM when multiple tasks are performed simultaneously. These findings are important for developing rehabilitation approaches for patients with limited joint movements. PMID:25329477

78 FR 16257 - Notice of Intent To Prepare the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Joint Military...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-03-14

... uninterrupted schedule. These RTAs are needed to support ongoing operational requirements, changes to U.S. force.... MARFORPAC, as the Executive Agent, has invited the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA); International...., Dandan Elementary School Cafeteria, Dandan Road, Dandan, Saipan, CNMI 96960 Thursday, April 11, 2013, 4...

77 FR 67057 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Submission for OMB Review; Joint Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-11-08

... unless it displays a currently valid Office of Management and Budget (OMB) control number. On July 30, 2012, the agencies, under the auspices of the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC... the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, U.S. Office of Management and Budget, New Executive...

Leveraging Executable Architectures in a Joint Environment

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-01-01

Support of Type 2/3 Terminal Attack Control Call Wing Operations Center (WOC) to Task On-Call Aircraft Call Air Command and Control Agency ( ACCA ) to...MIDS MIDS MIDS X = Existing capability P1 = Partial - requires voice ack P2 = Partial - only some F/A-18s None P3 = remarks only TARGET LOCATION

20 CFR 902.4 - Access to records.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... in writing to the Executive Director, Joint Board for the Enrollment of Actuaries, c/o Department of... without undue difficulty. (c) Fees. A fee at the rate of $5.00 per hour or fraction thereof or the time... with such request for records and shall immediately notify in writing the person making such request of...

20 CFR 902.4 - Access to records.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... in writing to the Executive Director, Joint Board for the Enrollment of Actuaries, c/o Department of... without undue difficulty. (c) Fees. A fee at the rate of $5.00 per hour or fraction thereof or the time... with such request for records and shall immediately notify in writing the person making such request of...

20 CFR 902.4 - Access to records.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... in writing to the Executive Director, Joint Board for the Enrollment of Actuaries, c/o Department of... without undue difficulty. (c) Fees. A fee at the rate of $5.00 per hour or fraction thereof or the time... with such request for records and shall immediately notify in writing the person making such request of...

20 CFR 902.4 - Access to records.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... in writing to the Executive Director, Joint Board for the Enrollment of Actuaries, c/o Department of... without undue difficulty. (c) Fees. A fee at the rate of $5.00 per hour or fraction thereof or the time... with such request for records and shall immediately notify in writing the person making such request of...

76 FR 38642 - Meeting of the Defense Business Board

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-07-01

... Downsizing Applications for DoD'' Task Groups. The Board will also receive updates from the ``New Ways to... --Corporate Downsizing Applications for DoD 11:45-12 Task Group Updates --New Ways to Execute the Joint... organizations may submit written comments to the Board about its mission and topics pertaining to this public...

Joint Force Quarterly. Issue 54, 3rd Quarter 2009

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-07-01

executed, state capacity remains low, and the private sector suffers from a lack of security and weak national and provincial gover - nance. The rule of law... tourism industry reported that in 2008, 22.6 million foreign visitors, the majority from the United States, spent $13.3 billion, an increase of 3.4

41 CFR 60-30.13 - Consent findings and order.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... EXECUTIVE ORDER 11246 Prehearing Procedures § 60-30.13 Consent findings and order. (a) General. At any time..., the parties may jointly move to defer the receipt of any evidence for a reasonable time to permit... result in a just disposition of the issues involved. (b) Content. Any agreement containing consent...

77 FR 9727 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Submission for OMB Review; Joint Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-02-17

... currently valid Office of Management and Budget (OMB) control number. On November 21, 2011, the agencies.... Office of Management and Budget, New Executive Office Building, Room 10235, 725 17th Street NW... and reporting treatment for capital contributions in the form of cash or notes receivable. Further...

78 FR 24124 - National Guard Bureau Privacy Program

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-04-24

... represents the National Guard on the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Completeness. All elements necessary for making a... assure the quality of the record in terms of its use in making a determination. Agency. Any Executive... President), or any independent regulatory agency (as defined by 5 U.S.C. 552a). Amendment. The process of...

Understanding the Mind of a Student with Autism in Music Class

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hourigan, Ryan M.; Hammel, Alice M.

2017-01-01

This article offers a unique look into the cognitive processes of students with autism spectrum disorder in music classrooms. Concepts include theory of mind, weak central coherence, executive function, joint attention, and social attention. Behavior implications are also examined. Specific examples of support tools for the music classroom are…

Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV)

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-12-01

BY - Base Year DAMIR - Defense Acquisition Management Information Retrieval Dev Est - Development Estimate DoD - Department of Defense DSN - Defense...Production Estimate QR - Quantity Related Qty - Quantity RDT&E - Research, Development , Test, and Evaluation SAR - Selected Acquisition Report Sch - Schedule... Development Estimate) Defense Acquisition Executive (DAE) Approved Acquisition Program Baseline (APB) dated October 23, 2012 Approved APB Defense

The ins and outs of caulking

Treesearch

Charles Carll

2006-01-01

Effective water management involves understanding the roles of siding, trim, fenestration units, flashing, and (where appropriate) caulk seals and how these entities interface with each other. Where caulk seals are used, their geometry and dimensions are important to joint performance, as is the care with which they are executed. In selection of caulking material,...

Youth Social Action Trials: Youth United. Evaluation Report and Executive Summary

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gorard, Stephen; See, Beng Huat; Siddiqui, Nadia; Smith, Emma; White, Patrick

2016-01-01

The intervention evaluated here is one of two "youth social action" projects jointly funded by the Education Endowment Foundation, the U.K. Cabinet Office, the Pears Foundation and the Stone Family Foundation. It was delivered by the Youth United Foundation (YUF) and involved uniformed youth organisations being established in schools in…

Effects of Department of Defense Instruction 5000.02 on Joint Program Executive Office Chemical Biological Defense (JPEO-CBD) Effectiveness

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-09-01

acquisition reforms. 14. SUBJECT TERMS Department of Defense Instruction (DoDI) 5000.02, better buying power, initiative, reform 15. NUMBER...7 6. Better Buying Power 1.0 ................................................................8 7. Better Buying Power 2.0...8 8. Better Buying Power 3.0 ................................................................8 9. DOD

75 FR 51240 - Pacific Fishery Management Council; Public Meetings

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-08-19

... Remarks and Introductions 2. Council Member Appointments 3. Roll Call 4. Executive Director's Report 5... Technical Team/Salmon Amendment Committee Joint 8 a.m. Session Scientific and Statistical Committee 8 a.m.... Salmon Technical Team 8 a.m. Scientific and Statistical Committee 8 a.m. Enforcement Consultants 4:30 p.m...

Realisation of a joint consumer engagement strategy in the Nepean Blue Mountains region.

PubMed

Blignault, Ilse; Aspinall, Diana; Reay, Lizz; Hyman, Kay

2017-02-15

Ensuring consumer engagement at different levels of the health system - direct care, organisational design and governance and policy - has become a strategic priority. This case study explored, through interviews with six purposively selected 'insiders' and document review, how one Medicare Local (now a Primary Health Network, PHN) and Local Health District worked together with consumers, to establish a common consumer engagement structure and mechanisms to support locally responsive, integrated and consumer-centred services. The two healthcare organisations worked as partners across the health system, sharing ownership and responsibility. Critical success factors included a consumer champion working with other highly motivated consumers concerned with improving the health system, a budget, and ongoing commitment from the Medicare Local or PHN and the Local Health District at executive and board level. Shared boundaries were an enormous advantage. Activities were jointly planned and executed, with consumer participation paramount. Training and mentoring enhanced consumer capacity and confidence. Bringing everyone on board and building on existing structures required time, effort and resources. The initiative produced immediate and lasting benefits, with consumer engagement now embedded in organisational governance and practice.

Controlling Distributed Planning

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Clement, Bradley; Barrett, Anthony

2004-01-01

A system of software implements an extended version of an approach, denoted shared activity coordination (SHAC), to the interleaving of planning and the exchange of plan information among organizations devoted to different missions that normally communicate infrequently except that they need to collaborate on joint activities and/or the use of shared resources. SHAC enables the planning and scheduling systems of the organizations to coordinate by resolving conflicts while optimizing local planning solutions. The present software provides a framework for modeling and executing communication protocols for SHAC. Shared activities are represented in each interacting planning system to establish consensus on joint activities or to inform the other systems of consumption of a common resource or a change in a shared state. The representations of shared activities are extended to include information on (1) the role(s) of each participant, (2) permissions (defined as specifications of which participant controls what aspects of shared activities and scheduling thereof), and (3) constraints on the parameters of shared activities. Also defined in the software are protocols for changing roles, permissions, and constraints during the course of coordination and execution.

Development of safe mechanism for surgical robots using equilibrium point control method.

PubMed

Park, Shinsuk; Lim, Hokjin; Kim, Byeong-sang; Song, Jae-bok

2006-01-01

This paper introduces a novel mechanism for surgical robotic systems to generate human arm-like compliant motion. The mechanism is based on the idea of the equilibrium point control hypothesis which claims that multi-joint limb movements are achieved by shifting the limbs' equilibrium positions defined by neuromuscular activity. The equilibrium point control can be implemented on a robot manipulator by installing two actuators at each joint of the manipulator, one to control the joint position, and the other to control the joint stiffness. This double-actuator mechanism allows us to arbitrarily manipulate the stiffness (or impedance) of a robotic manipulator as well as its position. Also, the force at the end-effector can be estimated based on joint stiffness and joint angle changes without using force transducers. A two-link manipulator and a three-link manipulator with the double-actuator units have been developed, and experiments and simulation results show the potential of the proposed approach. By creating the human arm-like behavior, this mechanism can improve the performance of robot manipulators to execute stable and safe movement in surgical environments by using a simple control scheme.

Monitoring and Controlling an Underwater Robotic Arm

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Haas, John; Todd, Brian Keith; Woodcock, Larry; Robinson, Fred M.

2009-01-01

The SSRMS Module 1 software is part of a system for monitoring an adaptive, closed-loop control of the motions of a robotic arm in NASA s Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory, where buoyancy in a pool of water is used to simulate the weightlessness of outer space. This software is so named because the robot arm is a replica of the Space Shuttle Remote Manipulator System (SSRMS). This software is distributed, running on remote joint processors (RJPs), each of which is mounted in a hydraulic actuator comprising the joint of the robotic arm and communicating with a poolside processor denoted the Direct Control Rack (DCR). Each RJP executes the feedback joint-motion control algorithm for its joint and communicates with the DCR. The DCR receives joint-angular-velocity commands either locally from an operator or remotely from computers that simulate the flight like SSRMS and perform coordinated motion calculations based on hand-controller inputs. The received commands are checked for validity before they are transmitted to the RJPs. The DCR software generates a display of the statuses of the RJPs for the DCR operator and can shut down the hydraulic pump when excessive joint-angle error or failure of a RJP is detected.

Beyond Coordination: Joint Planning and Program Execution. The IHPRPT Materials Working Group

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stropki, Michael A.; Cleyrat, Danial A.; Clinton, Raymond G., Jr.; Rogacki, John R. (Technical Monitor)

2000-01-01

"Partnership is more than just coordination," stated then-Commander of the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), Major General Dick Paul (USAF-Ret), at this year's National Space and Missile Materials Symposium. His comment referred to the example of the joint planning and program execution provided by the Integrated High Payoff Rocket Propulsion Technology (IHPRPT) Materials Working Group (IMWG). Most people agree that fiscal pressures imposed by shrinking budgets have made it extremely difficult to build upon our existing technical capabilities. In times of sufficient budgets, building advanced systems poses no major difficulties. However, with today's budgets, realizing enhanced capabilities and developing advanced systems often comes at an unaffordable cost. Overcoming this problem represents both a challenge and an opportunity to develop new business practices that allow us to develop advanced technologies within the restrictions imposed by current funding levels. Coordination of technology developments between different government agencies and organizations is a valuable tool for technology transfer. However, rarely do the newly developed technologies have direct applicability to other ongoing programs. Technology requirements are typically determined up-front during the program planning stage so that schedule risk can be minimized. The problem with this process is that the costs associated with the technology development are often borne by a single program. Additionally, the potential exists for duplication of technical effort. Changing this paradigm is a difficult process but one that can be extremely worthwhile should the right opportunity arise. The IMWG is one such example where NASA, the DoD, and industry have developed joint requirements that are intended to satisfy multiple program needs. More than mere coordination, the organizations comprising the group come together as partners, sharing information and resources, proceeding from a joint roadmap.

Biomechanical studies of spinal manipulative therapy

PubMed Central

Herzog, Walter

1991-01-01

The purpose of this article is to present a review of our research related to spinal manipulative therapy (SMT). The first part of this review will concentrate on studies that were aimed at quantifying possible changes in the mechanics of locomotion associated with SMT. The second part will focus on studies that were aimed at measuring the forces exerted by chiropractors on patients during SMT. In the locomotion studies, we found that SMT was associated with changes in the mechanics of walking. In particular, sacroiliac joint patients were found to become more symmetrical in their ground reaction force patterns with increasing exposure to SMT. In the force studies we found that the force-time histories of SMT on the sacroiliac joint and thoracic spine were similar, however, the mean peak and preload forces recorded for SMT on the thoracic spine were about 60 N larger than those recorded on the sacroiliac joint. Treatments on the cervical spine were executed faster and with less force than treatments on the sacroiliac joint or the thoracic spine.

Joint transform correlators with spatially incoherent illumination

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bykovsky, Yuri A.; Karpiouk, Andrey B.; Markilov, Anatoly A.; Rodin, Vladislav G.; Starikov, Sergey N.

1997-03-01

Two variants of joint transform correlators with monochromatic spatially incoherent illumination are considered. The Fourier-holograms of the reference and recognized images are recorded simultaneously or apart in a time on the same spatial light modulator directly by monochromatic spatially incoherent light. To create the signal of mutual correlation of the images it is necessary to execute nonlinear transformation when the hologram is illuminated by coherent light. In the first scheme of the correlator this aim was achieved by using double pas of a restoring coherent wave through the hologram. In the second variant of the correlator the non-linearity of the characteristic of the spatial light modulator for hologram recording was used. Experimental schemes and results on processing teste images by both variants of joint transform correlators with monochromatic spatially incoherent illumination. The use of spatially incoherent light on the input of joint transform correlators permits to reduce the requirements to optical quality of elements, to reduce accuracy requirements on elements positioning and to expand a number of devices suitable to input images in correlators.

Preliminary 2-D shell analysis of the space shuttle solid rocket boosters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Knight, Norman F., Jr.; Gillian, Ronnie E.; Nemeth, Michael P.

1987-01-01

A two-dimensional shell model of an entire solid rocket booster (SRB) has been developed using the STAGSC-1 computer code and executed on the Ames CRAY computer. The purpose of these analyses is to calculate the overall deflection and stress distributions for the SRB when subjected to mechanical loads corresponding to critical times during the launch sequence. The mechanical loading conditions for the full SRB arise from the external tank (ET) attachment points, the solid rocket motor (SRM) pressure load, and the SRB hold down posts. The ET strut loads vary with time after the Space Shuttle main engine (SSME) ignition. The SRM internal pressure varies axially by approximately 100 psi. Static analyses of the full SRB are performed using a snapshot picture of the loads. The field and factory joints are modeled by using equivalent stiffness joints instead of detailed models of the joint. As such, local joint behavior cannot be obtained from this global model.

Design and control of a macro-micro robot for precise force applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, Yulun; Mangaser, Amante; Laby, Keith; Jordan, Steve; Wilson, Jeff

1993-01-01

Creating a robot which can delicately interact with its environment has been the goal of much research. Primarily two difficulties have made this goal hard to attain. The execution of control strategies which enable precise force manipulations are difficult to implement in real time because such algorithms have been too computationally complex for available controllers. Also, a robot mechanism which can quickly and precisely execute a force command is difficult to design. Actuation joints must be sufficiently stiff, frictionless, and lightweight so that desired torques can be accurately applied. This paper describes a robotic system which is capable of delicate manipulations. A modular high-performance multiprocessor control system was designed to provide sufficient compute power for executing advanced control methods. An 8 degree of freedom macro-micro mechanism was constructed to enable accurate tip forces. Control algorithms based on the impedance control method were derived, coded, and load balanced for maximum execution speed on the multiprocessor system. Delicate force tasks such as polishing, finishing, cleaning, and deburring, are the target applications of the robot.

Industrial robot

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prakashan, A.; Mukunda, H. S.; Samuel, S. D.; Colaco, J. C.

1992-11-01

This paper addresses the design and development of a four degree of freedom industrial manipulator, with three liner axes in the positioning mechanism and one rotary axis in the orientation mechanism. The positioning mechanism joints are driven with dc servo motors fitted with incremental shaft encoders. The rotary joint of the orientation mechanism is driven by a stepping motor. The manipulator is controlled by an IBM 386 PC/AT. Microcomputer based interface cards have been developed for independent joint control. PID controllers for dc motors have been designed. Kinematic modeling, dynamic modeling, and path planning have been carried out to generate the control sequence to accomplish a given task with reference to source and destination state constraints. This project has been sponsored by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, New Delhi, and has been executed in collaboration with M/s Larsen & Toubro Ltd, Mysore, India.

Software Intensive Systems

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-07-01

Architect, Developer and Platform Evangelism • Microsoft Dynamic Systems Initiative-- John Wilson, Architect Windows Management • Windows Lifecycle...Presentations • Aegis--Reuben Pitts & CDR John Ailes, Program Executive Office, Integrated Warfare Systems • Long Term Mine Reconnaissance (LMRS)--CAPT...Paul Imes • Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS)--Richard North, JPEO JTRS & Leonard Schiavone , MITRE • Single Integrated Air Picture (SIAP)--CAPT

Joint Task Force -Guantanamo Bay, Cuba: Open or Close?

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-03-01

Obama signed that executive order directing the closure of detention operations at Guantanamo Bay. Subsequently, despite domestically political and...domestically political and international scrutiny, detention operations at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba have evolved into the premier detention facility in the...operations at Guantanamo Bay. Subsequently, despite domestically political and international scrutiny, detention operations at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba

5 CFR Appendix A to Part 2634 - Certificate of Independence (Form Approved: OMB Control No. 3209-0007)

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... GOVERNMENT ETHICS GOVERNMENT ETHICS EXECUTIVE BRANCH FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE, QUALIFIED TRUSTS, AND CERTIFICATES... submitted to the Office of Government Ethics for certification pursuant to the Ethics in Government Act of... interested party, and is not a partner of, or involved in any joint venture or other investment or business...

78 FR 38537 - Federal Acquisition Regulation; Federal Acquisition Circular 2005-68; Small Entity Compliance Guide

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-26

... Entity Compliance Guide. SUMMARY: This document is issued under the joint authority of DOD, GSA, and NASA... whose name appears in the table below. Please cite FAC 2005-68 and the FAR case number. For information... Listed in FAC 2005-68 Subject FAR Case Analyst *Expansion of Applicability of the Senior Executive...

8 CFR 213a.2 - Use of affidavit of support.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... SUPPORT ON BEHALF OF IMMIGRANTS § 213a.2 Use of affidavit of support. (a) General. (1)(i)(A) In any case specified in paragraph (a)(2) of this section, an intending immigrant is inadmissible as an alien likely to... substitute sponsor and, if necessary, a joint sponsor, has executed on behalf of the intending immigrant a...

Global Combat Support System - Joint Increment 8 (GCSS-J Inc 8)

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-03-01

Acquisition Executive DoD - Department of Defense DoDAF - DoD Architecture Framework FD - Full Deployment FDD - Full Deployment Decision FY - Fiscal...Estimate (Or Actual) Milestone B1 Mar 2014 Mar 2014 Milestone C1 Mar 2014 Mar 2014 Increment 8 FDD Dec 2018 Dec 2018 Increment 8 FD TBD TBD Memo 1

76 FR 64137 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC; Notice of Filing and Immediate...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-10-17

... book data for the NASDAQ Market Center Execution System. NASDAQ has also implemented these capped/flat..., there is no economic basis for regulating maximum prices for one of the joint products in an industry in... publishing proprietary book data on the Internet. Second, because a single order or transaction report can...

Defense Acquisition Structures and Capabilities Review

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-06-01

systems to joint portfolio management Refinement of a human capital strategy Improvement of governance of the business transformation effort...Management, Senior- Level Tri-Chaired investment panel for the new Concept Decision process for major programs, and Defense Acquisition Executive Summary...establishment of centers of excellence. DLA reorganized to implement the Business Systems Modernization (BSM) initiative designed to improve end-to-end

3 CFR 13651 - Executive Order 13651 of August 6, 2013. Prohibiting Certain Imports of Burmese Jadeite and Rubies

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... America, including the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) (IEEPA), the... of America, hereby order: Section 1. (a) The importation into the United States of any jadeite or...” means a partnership, association, trust, joint venture, corporation, group, subgroup, or other...

Practice Changes the Usage of Moment Components in Executing a Multijoint Task

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kadota, Koji; Matsuo, Tomoyuki; Hashizume, Ken; Tezuka, Kazushi

2004-01-01

In this article, the authors examined changes in the usage of muscular and motion-dependent moments during the long-term practice of a complex, multijoint movement. Seven participants practiced a cyclic movement of the upper limbs until their joint angular movements conformed to those of an expert. The motions of the participants were digitally…

KSC-99pp1190

NASA Image and Video Library

1999-10-07

After the ribbon-cutting opening the Consolidated Support Operations Center at ROCC, Cape Canaveral Air Station, guests look at information on the computer screen during a demonstration. Among those standing are (left to right) Barbara White, supervisor, Mission Support; Ed Gormel, executive director, Joint Performance Management Office; KSC Center Director Roy Bridges; and Sam Gutierrez (white shirt), Human Resources, Space Gateway Support

76 FR 17762 - Regulations Governing the Performance of Actuarial Services Under the Employee Retirement Income...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-03-31

... following as may be appropriate in the particular case: (1) Normal cost; (2) accrued liability; (3) payment... Joint Board will address on a case-by-case basis situations involving the inability of the Executive..., communication skills, and business and general tax law. 3. Qualifying Program Requirement These regulations do...

Research accomplishments for wood transportation structures based on a national research needs assessment

Treesearch

M. A. Ritter; S. R. Duwadi

1998-01-01

In 1991, the USDA Forest Service, Forest Products Laboratory (FPL) and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) formed a joint cooperative research program for wood transportation structures. Development and execution of this program was based on a national assessment of research needs and priorities. In the 5 years since completion of the research needs assessment,...

Moderating effects of executive functions and the teacher-child relationship on the development of mathematics ability in kindergarten.

PubMed

Blair, Clancy; McKinnon, Rachel D

2016-02-01

Academic preparedness, executive function abilities, and positive relationships with teachers have each been shown to be uniquely important for school readiness and success in the early elementary grades. Few studies, however, have examined the joint influence of these readiness variables on early school outcomes. Using data from a prospective longitudinal sample of 1292 children and families in predominantly low-income and rural communities, we found that executive function at child age 48 months and a higher quality relationship with the kindergarten teacher each uniquely moderated the effect of math ability in preschool on math ability at the end of kindergarten. This effect was seen for math ability as measured by the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study-Kindergarten (ECLS-K) mathematics assessment battery but not the Woodcock-Johnson III Tests of Achievement Applied Problems subtest. For children with lower math ability in preschool as assessed by the ECLS-K Math battery, higher executive function abilities and a more positive relationship with the kindergarten teacher were each associated with a higher than expected level of math ability in kindergarten. Conversely, lowest levels of math ability in kindergarten were observed among children with low math ability in preschool and poor executive function or a less positive relationship with the kindergarten teacher.

Accounting for intrusive thoughts in PTSD: Contributions of cognitive control and deliberate regulation strategies.

PubMed

Bomyea, Jessica; Lang, Ariel J

2016-03-01

Persistent, trauma-related intrusive thoughts are common in individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Automatic aspects of cognitive functioning (including executive functioning) and maladaptive deliberate attempts at cognitive regulation have been proposed as individual difference factors that may perpetuate intrusive thoughts. The current study sought to examine the joint contribution of these two factors on intrusive thoughts in PTSD. Forty-two women with PTSD completed an executive functioning assessment followed by a thought suppression task. Intrusive thoughts (frequency and duration), as well as participants' use of specific cognitive regulation strategies (avoidance-based thought regulation strategies; TRS), were measured during the task. Hierarchical linear regression was used to examine the interaction of executive functioning and TRS on intrusive thoughts. Greater use of TRS was associated with greater intrusive thought persistence for those with low executive functioning, but not those with high executive functioning. Data was collected cross-sectionally and the laboratory thought suppression task may not correspond to naturalistic thought regulation. Results are consistent with prior literature suggesting that certain responses deployed by individuals to control intrusive thoughts may be unhelpful, but that a higher level of cognitive capacity may mitigate this effect. Implications of these findings for recent models of cognition in PTSD are discussed. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Moderating effects of executive functions and the teacher–child relationship on the development of mathematics ability in kindergarten

PubMed Central

Blair, Clancy; McKinnon, Rachel D.

2017-01-01

Academic preparedness, executive function abilities, and positive relationships with teachers have each been shown to be uniquely important for school readiness and success in the early elementary grades. Few studies, however, have examined the joint influence of these readiness variables on early school outcomes. Using data from a prospective longitudinal sample of 1292 children and families in predominantly low-income and rural communities, we found that executive function at child age 48 months and a higher quality relationship with the kindergarten teacher each uniquely moderated the effect of math ability in preschool on math ability at the end of kindergarten. This effect was seen for math ability as measured by the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study-Kindergarten (ECLS-K) mathematics assessment battery but not the Woodcock-Johnson III Tests of Achievement Applied Problems subtest. For children with lower math ability in preschool as assessed by the ECLS-K Math battery, higher executive function abilities and a more positive relationship with the kindergarten teacher were each associated with a higher than expected level of math ability in kindergarten. Conversely, lowest levels of math ability in kindergarten were observed among children with low math ability in preschool and poor executive function or a less positive relationship with the kindergarten teacher. PMID:28154471

Advancing Globally Integrated Logistics Effort 2017 Wargame Report

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-09-01

September 2017 Dr. M. Webster Ewell, Jr. Director, Integration and Gaming Team Advanced Technology and Systems Analysis REPORT...release: distribution unlimited. 13. SUPPLEMENTARY NOTES 14. ABSTRACT This report describes the execution and analysis of a logistics game created for...the Joint Staff J-4, Directorate for Logistics. The game , Advancing Globally Integrated Logistics Effort 2017 (AGILE 17), centered on developing a

26 CFR 1.482-7 - Methods to determine taxable income in connection with a cost sharing arrangement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... regulations under section 482. For example, an arrangement for developing intangibles in which one controlled... controlled group, execute an agreement to jointly develop vaccine X and own the exclusive rights to... are members of the same controlled group, enter into a CSA. In the first year of the CSA, C and D...

26 CFR 1.482-7 - Methods to determine taxable income in connection with a cost sharing arrangement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... regulations under section 482. For example, an arrangement for developing intangibles in which one controlled... controlled group, execute an agreement to jointly develop vaccine X and own the exclusive rights to... are members of the same controlled group, enter into a CSA. In the first year of the CSA, C and D...

26 CFR 1.482-7 - Methods to determine taxable income in connection with a cost sharing arrangement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... regulations under section 482. For example, an arrangement for developing intangibles in which one controlled... controlled group, execute an agreement to jointly develop vaccine X and own the exclusive rights to... are members of the same controlled group, enter into a CSA. In the first year of the CSA, C and D...

26 CFR 1.482-7T - Methods to determine taxable income in connection with a cost sharing arrangement (temporary).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... under section 482. For example, an arrangement for developing intangibles in which one controlled... members of the same controlled group, execute an agreement to jointly develop vaccine X and own the... Vaccine X. Example 3. Companies C and D, who are members of the same controlled group, enter into a CSA...

Department of Defense Annual Report on Sexual Assault in the Military: Fiscal Year 2015

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-05-02

51 List of Figures Figure 1: DoD Social Ecological Model...across the Joint Force understands their role in upholding ethical standards of behavior as a way to prevent sexual assault. Sexual Assault...strategy execution at all subordinate levels of the military social environment (Figure 1). Figure 1: DoD Social Ecological Model Incorporated DoD

Common Ground: Exploring Compatibilities between the Linked Data Models of the Library of Congress and OCLC

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Godby, Carol Jean; Denenberg, Ray

2015-01-01

Jointly released by OCLC and the Library of Congress, this white paper compares and contrasts the compatible linked data initiatives at both institutions. It is an executive summary of a more detailed technical analysis that will be released later this year. The white paper summarizes the recent activity of the Bibliographic Framework Initiative…

Near East/South Asia Report.

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-10-04

Government. PROCUREMENT OF PUBLICATIONS JPRS publications may be ordered from the National Technical Information Service, Springfield, Virginia 22161. In...Correspondence pertaining to niatters other than procurement may be addressed to Joint Publications Research Service, 1000 North Glebe Road, Arlington, Virginia... solution " to the Jewish problem. The time, the place, and other circumstances may have made equally methodical execution of that plan impossible. But

Co-Production of Quality in the Applied Education Research Scheme

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ozga, Jenny

2007-01-01

This contribution looks at the ways in which research quality is defined and addressed in the Applied Education Research Scheme (AERS), particularly within the network on Schools and Social Capital, which is one of the four areas of work within the overall AERS scheme. AERS is a five-year programme, funded jointly by the Scottish Executive and the…

Peoples, Resources, and Lifestyles: The Hopi-Navajo Land Partition Act of 1974.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Goodman, James M.

The Hopi and Navajo tribes have been engaged in a long and complex land dispute within the 1882 Executive Order Area (Joint Use Area) of Arizona, an area recently redefined via the Partition Act of 1974 which calls for the relocation of 5 to 10,000 Navajos. This rearrangement of political domain threatens to influence the future management and…

The Effect of Executive Order 13269 on Noncitizen Enlisted Accessions in the U.S. Military

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-03-01

heteroscedasticity by using both White and Breusch - Pagan Tests (Woolridge, 2009). The test results showed that there was significant heteroscedasticy in...39  C.  JOINT-HYPOTHESIS TEST AND SIGNIFICANCE OF THE MODELS...Accessions Regression Results ........................... 40  Table 8.  The Authors’ R Square and F Test Results of DMDC Data ................ 42  xii

Carving Executive Control at Its Joints: Working Memory Capacity Predicts Stimulus-Stimulus, but Not Stimulus-Response, Conflict

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Meier, Matt E.; Kane, Michael J.

2015-01-01

Three experiments examined the relation between working memory capacity (WMC) and 2 different forms of cognitive conflict: stimulus-stimulus (S-S) and stimulus-response (S-R) interference. Our goal was to test whether WMC's relation to conflict-task performance is mediated by stimulus-identification processes (captured by S-S conflict),…

75 FR 9250 - Plan for the Use and Distribution of the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation of...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-03-01

... 18, 2009, because a joint resolution disapproving it was not enacted. The plan reads as follows: Plan...-governance over all of the forestry and natural resource management programs relating to the Tribe's On... the Tribe for use as it decided at its sole discretion, upon the execution by the Tribe and the...

Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Consequence Management: Ways to Improve Fixed-Site Decontamination Capability

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-05-10

objective is achieved through consequence management and fixed-site decontamination operations. The effectiveness of CBRN consequence management...decontamination operations. The effectiveness of CBRN consequence management and fixed-site decontamination executed in the Joint Security Area can be...when faced with Chemical, Biological, Radiological, or Nuclear (CBRN) contaminated ports of debarkation. The effectiveness of CBRN consequence

20 CFR 903.4 - Procedures for access to records and accountings of disclosures from records, regarding individuals.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... BOARD FOR THE ENROLLMENT OF ACTUARIES ACCESS TO RECORDS Records Pertaining to Individuals § 903.4... addressed to the Executive Director, Joint Board for the Enrollment of Actuaries, c/o U.S. Department of the... Board for the Enrollment of Actuaries, 2401 E Street, NW., suite 1537, Washington, DC, between the hours...

20 CFR 903.4 - Procedures for access to records and accountings of disclosures from records, regarding individuals.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... BOARD FOR THE ENROLLMENT OF ACTUARIES ACCESS TO RECORDS Records Pertaining to Individuals § 903.4... addressed to the Executive Director, Joint Board for the Enrollment of Actuaries, c/o U.S. Department of the... Board for the Enrollment of Actuaries, 2401 E Street, NW., suite 1537, Washington, DC, between the hours...

20 CFR 903.4 - Procedures for access to records and accountings of disclosures from records, regarding individuals.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... BOARD FOR THE ENROLLMENT OF ACTUARIES ACCESS TO RECORDS Records Pertaining to Individuals § 903.4... addressed to the Executive Director, Joint Board for the Enrollment of Actuaries, c/o U.S. Department of the... Board for the Enrollment of Actuaries, 2401 E Street, NW., suite 1537, Washington, DC, between the hours...

20 CFR 903.4 - Procedures for access to records and accountings of disclosures from records, regarding individuals.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... BOARD FOR THE ENROLLMENT OF ACTUARIES ACCESS TO RECORDS Records Pertaining to Individuals § 903.4... addressed to the Executive Director, Joint Board for the Enrollment of Actuaries, c/o U.S. Department of the... Board for the Enrollment of Actuaries, 2401 E Street, NW., suite 1537, Washington, DC, between the hours...

2011 Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Survivability Conference

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-05-18

Protection (barrier, sorptive and reactive material technologies) o Top surface antimicrobial treatments (kills spores, bacteria, fungi, viruses ) o...Warning System (TWS) CDD - Countermeasure Anti-Torpedo ( CAT ) CDD UNCLASSIFIED Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical and Biological Defense May...Creating viruses de novo Biological Threats UNCLASSIFIED JPEO-CBD Radiological/Nuclear (RN) Status and Path Forward • Issue: No identified DoD

Combining Low-Energy Electrical Resistance Heating with Biotic and Abiotic Reactions for Treatment of Chlorinated Solvent DNAPL Source Areas

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-01-01

5 2.1.2 In Situ Bioremediation ...Technology Certification Program gpm gallons per minute ISB in situ bioremediation JBLM Joint Base Lewis-McChord mmol millimole MROD Mount...EXECUTIVE SUMMARY BACKGROUND The applicability of in situ groundwater remedies such as in situ bioremediation (ISB) or zero valent iron (ZVI) reduction

Independent control of joint stiffness in the framework of the equilibrium-point hypothesis.

PubMed

Latash, M L

1992-01-01

In the framework of the equilibrium-point hypothesis, virtual trajectories and joint stiffness patterns have been reconstructed during two motor tasks practiced against a constant bias torque. One task required a voluntary increase in joint stiffness while preserving the original joint position. The other task involved fast elbow flexions over 36 degrees. Joint stiffness gradually subsided after the termination of fast movements. In both tasks, the external torque could slowly and unexpectedly change. The subjects were required not to change their motor commands if the torque changed, i.e. "to do the same no matter what the motor did". In both tasks, changes in joint stiffness were accompanied by unchanged virtual trajectories that were also independent of the absolute value of the bias torque. By contrast, the intercept of the joint compliant characteristic with the angle axis, r(t)-function, has demonstrated a clear dependence upon both the level of coactivation and external load. We assume that a template virtual trajectory is generated at a certain level of the motor hierarchy and is later scaled taking into account some commonly changing dynamic factors of the movement execution, for example, external load. The scaling leads to the generation of commands to the segmental structures that can be expressed, according to the equilibrium-point hypothesis, as changes in the thresholds of the tonic stretch reflex for corresponding muscles.

Strategies of Parkour practitioners for executing soft precision landings.

PubMed

Maldonado, Galo; Soueres, Philippe; Watier, Bruno

2018-04-25

Parkour landing techniques differ from performances of other sports as they are practiced in urban spaces with uncontrolled surfaces and drop heights. Due to the relatively young age of the sport, few studies have tried to understand how practitioners - called traceurs - succeed at performing these dynamic performances. In this paper, we focus on the precision landing technique, which has a fundamental role in most of the Parkour motions. We analyzed the lower limbs motion of traceurs executing the precision landings from two different heights and compared their performance with untrained participants. We found that traceurs perform a soft landing extending its duration twice than untrained participants do [Formula: see text], increasing the range of motion [Formula: see text] and generating more mechanical energy [Formula: see text] to dissipate the impact. In the Parkour technique, the knee accounted for half of the energy dissipated. The peak joint torques [Formula: see text] and power [Formula: see text] were reduced in the Parkour technique. The increase of the landing height did not modify the proportion of individual joint mechanical energy contribution for dissipation. Our results could be used to enhance Parkour performance, and to understand new ways in which sport practitioners can land in order to prevent injuries.

Designing and validating the joint battlespace infosphere

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peterson, Gregory D.; Alexander, W. Perry; Birdwell, J. Douglas

2001-08-01

Fielding and managing the dynamic, complex information systems infrastructure necessary for defense operations presents significant opportunities for revolutionary improvements in capabilities. An example of this technology trend is the creation and validation of the Joint Battlespace Infosphere (JBI) being developed by the Air Force Research Lab. The JBI is a system of systems that integrates, aggregates, and distributes information to users at all echelons, from the command center to the battlefield. The JBI is a key enabler of meeting the Air Force's Joint Vision 2010 core competencies such as Information Superiority, by providing increased situational awareness, planning capabilities, and dynamic execution. At the same time, creating this new operational environment introduces significant risk due to an increased dependency on computational and communications infrastructure combined with more sophisticated and frequent threats. Hence, the challenge facing the nation is the most effective means to exploit new computational and communications technologies while mitigating the impact of attacks, faults, and unanticipated usage patterns.

NIRcam-NIRSpec GTO Observations of Galaxy Evolution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rieke, Marcia J.; Ferruit, Pierre; Alberts, Stacey; Bunker, Andrew; Charlot, Stephane; Chevallard, Jacopo; Dressler, Alan; Egami, Eiichi; Eisenstein, Daniel; Endsley, Ryan; Franx, Marijn; Frye, Brenda L.; Hainline, Kevin; Jakobsen, Peter; Lake, Emma Curtis; Maiolino, Roberto; Rix, Hans-Walter; Robertson, Brant; Stark, Daniel; Williams, Christina; Willmer, Christopher; Willott, Chris J.

2017-06-01

The NIRSpec and and NIRCam GTO Teams are planning a joint imaging and spectroscopic study of the high redshift universe. By virtue of planning a joint program which includes medium and deep near- and mid-infrared imaging surveys and multi-object spectroscopy (MOS) of sources in the same fields, we have learned much about planning observing programs for each of the instruments and using them in parallel mode to maximize photon collection time. The design and rationale for our joint program will be explored in this talk with an emphasis on why we have chosen particular suites of filters and spectroscopic resolutions, why we have chosen particular exposure patterns, and how we have designed the parallel observations. The actual observations that we intend on executing will serve as examples of how to layout mosaics and MOS observations to maximize observing efficiency for surveys with JWST.

Fast Grasp Contact Computation for a Serial Robot

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hargrave, Brian (Inventor); Shi, Jianying (Inventor); Diftler, Myron A. (Inventor)

2015-01-01

A system includes a controller and a serial robot having links that are interconnected by a joint, wherein the robot can grasp a three-dimensional (3D) object in response to a commanded grasp pose. The controller receives input information, including the commanded grasp pose, a first set of information describing the kinematics of the robot, and a second set of information describing the position of the object to be grasped. The controller also calculates, in a two-dimensional (2D) plane, a set of contact points between the serial robot and a surface of the 3D object needed for the serial robot to achieve the commanded grasp pose. A required joint angle is then calculated in the 2D plane between the pair of links using the set of contact points. A control action is then executed with respect to the motion of the serial robot using the required joint angle.

Spatial and temporal modulation of joint stiffness during multijoint movement.

PubMed

Mah, C D

2001-02-01

Joint stiffness measurements during small transient perturbations have suggested that stiffness during movement is different from that observed during posture. These observations are problematic for theories like the classical equilibrium point hypothesis, which suggest that desired trajectories during movement are enforced by joint stiffness. We measured arm impedances during large, slow perturbations to obtain detailed information about the spatial and temporal modulation of stiffness and viscosity during movement. While our measurements of stiffness magnitudes during movement generally agreed with the results of measurements using fast perturbations, they revealed that joint stiffness undergoes stereotyped changes in magnitude and aspect ratio which depend on the direction of movement and show a strong dependence on joint angles. Movement simulations using measured parameters show that the measured modulation of impedance acts as an energy conserving force field to constrain movement. This mechanism allows for a computationally simplified account of the execution of multijoint movement. While our measurements do not rule out a role for afferent feedback in force generation, the observed stereotyped restoring forces can allow a dramatic relaxation of the accuracy requirements for forces generated by other control mechanisms, such as inverse dynamical models.

Environmental assessment and exposure reduction of cockroaches: A practice parameter

PubMed Central

Portnoy, Jay; Chew, Ginger L.; Phipatanakul, Wanda; Williams, P. Brock; Grimes, Carl; Kennedy, Kevin; Matsui, Elizabeth C.; Miller, J. David; Bernstein, David; Blessing-Moore, Joann; Cox, Linda; Khan, David; Lang, David; Nicklas, Richard; Oppenheimer, John; Randolph, Christopher; Schuller, Diane; Spector, Sheldon; Tilles, Stephen A.; Wallace, Dana; Seltzer, James; Sublett, James

2013-01-01

This parameter was developed by the Joint Task Force on Practice Parameters, representing the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI); the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI); and the joint Council of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. The AAAAI and the ACAAI have jointly accepted responsibility for establishing “Environmental assessment and remediation: a practice parameter.” This is a complete and comprehensive document at the current time. The medical environment is a changing environment, and not all recommendations will be appropriate for all patients. Because this document incorporated the efforts of many participants, no single person, including those who served on the Joint Task Force, is authorized to provide an official AAAAI or ACAAI interpretation of these practice parameters. Any request for information about or an interpretation of these practice parameters by the AAAAI or ACAAI should be directed to the Executive Offices of the AAAAI, the ACAAI, and the Joint Council of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. These parameters are not designed for use by pharmaceutical companies in drug promotion. The findings and conclusions in this manuscript are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official position of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). PMID:23938214

Gait Kinematic Analysis in Water Using Wearable Inertial Magnetic Sensors.

PubMed

Fantozzi, Silvia; Giovanardi, Andrea; Borra, Davide; Gatta, Giorgio

2015-01-01

Walking is one of the fundamental motor tasks executed during aquatic therapy. Previous kinematics analyses conducted using waterproofed video cameras were limited to the sagittal plane and to only one or two consecutive steps. Furthermore, the set-up and post-processing are time-consuming and thus do not allow a prompt assessment of the correct execution of the movements during the aquatic session therapy. The aim of the present study was to estimate the 3D joint kinematics of the lower limbs and thorax-pelvis joints in sagittal and frontal planes during underwater walking using wearable inertial and magnetic sensors. Eleven healthy adults were measured during walking both in shallow water and in dry-land conditions. Eight wearable inertial and magnetic sensors were inserted in waterproofed boxes and fixed to the body segments by means of elastic modular bands. A validated protocol (Outwalk) was used. Gait cycles were automatically segmented and selected if relevant intraclass correlation coefficients values were higher than 0.75. A total of 704 gait cycles for the lower limb joints were normalized in time and averaged to obtain the mean cycle of each joint, among participants. The mean speed in water was 40% lower than that of the dry-land condition. Longer stride duration and shorter stride distance were found in the underwater walking. In the sagittal plane, the knee was more flexed (≈ 23°) and the ankle more dorsiflexed (≈ 9°) at heel strike, and the hip was more flexed at toe-off (≈ 13°) in water than on land. On the frontal plane in the underwater walking, smoother joint angle patterns were observed for thorax-pelvis and hip, and ankle was more inversed at toe-off (≈ 7°) and showed a more inversed mean value (≈ 7°). The results were mainly explained by the effect of the speed in the water as supported by the linear mixed models analysis performed. Thus, it seemed that the combination of speed and environment triggered modifications in the joint angles in underwater gait more than these two factors considered separately. The inertial and magnetic sensors, by means of fast set-up and data analysis, can supply an immediate gait analysis report to the therapist during the aquatic therapy session.

Fetal imaging: Executive summary of a Joint Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, American College of Radiology, Society for Pediatric Radiology, and Society of Radiologists in Ultrasound Fetal Imaging Workshop.

PubMed

Reddy, Uma M; Abuhamad, Alfred Z; Levine, Deborah; Saade, George R

2014-05-01

Given that practice variation exists in the frequency and performance of ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging in pregnancy, the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development hosted a workshop to address indications for ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging in pregnancy, to discuss when and how often these studies should be performed, to consider recommendations for optimizing yield and cost-effectiveness and to identify research opportunities. This article is the executive summary of the workshop. Published by Mosby, Inc.

Fetal imaging: executive summary of a joint Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, American College of Radiology, Society for Pediatric Radiology, and Society of Radiologists in Ultrasound Fetal Imaging workshop.

PubMed

Reddy, Uma M; Abuhamad, Alfred Z; Levine, Deborah; Saade, George R

2014-05-01

Given that practice variation exists in the frequency and performance of ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in pregnancy, the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development hosted a workshop to address indications for ultrasound and MRI in pregnancy, to discuss when and how often these studies should be performed, to consider recommendations for optimizing yield and cost effectiveness, and to identify research opportunities. This article is the executive summary of the workshop.

Fetal imaging: executive summary of a joint Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, American College of Radiology, Society for Pediatric Radiology, and Society of Radiologists in Ultrasound Fetal Imaging Workshop.

PubMed

Reddy, Uma M; Abuhamad, Alfred Z; Levine, Deborah; Saade, George R

2014-05-01

Given that practice variation exists in the frequency and performance of ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in pregnancy, the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development hosted a workshop to address indications for ultrasound and MRI in pregnancy, to discuss when and how often these studies should be performed, to consider recommendations for optimizing yield and cost effectiveness, and to identify research opportunities. This article is the executive summary of the workshop.

Parallelization of a blind deconvolution algorithm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matson, Charles L.; Borelli, Kathy J.

2006-09-01

Often it is of interest to deblur imagery in order to obtain higher-resolution images. Deblurring requires knowledge of the blurring function - information that is often not available separately from the blurred imagery. Blind deconvolution algorithms overcome this problem by jointly estimating both the high-resolution image and the blurring function from the blurred imagery. Because blind deconvolution algorithms are iterative in nature, they can take minutes to days to deblur an image depending how many frames of data are used for the deblurring and the platforms on which the algorithms are executed. Here we present our progress in parallelizing a blind deconvolution algorithm to increase its execution speed. This progress includes sub-frame parallelization and a code structure that is not specialized to a specific computer hardware architecture.

Assessment of the Office of Security Cooperation-Iraq Mission Capabilities

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-09-18

and report and other activities conducted by the Office of Special Plans & Operations to spo@dodig.mil Defense Hotline, The Pentagon ... Defense for Policy, U.S. Cenh·al Command, Joint Staff, and Defense Security Cooperation Agency responses when preparing the final repmt. Please...of Department of Defense support for executing security cooperation programs in Iraq and whether the Office of Security

Marine Special Operations Helicopter Unit: Viability in the Joint Force of 2020

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-04-18

competitive globalized environment will increase the requirements for aviation support. With a dedicated Marine Special Operations Helicopter Squadron...efficiency in planning, training, and execution will provide for precise timely and accurate organic fires, direct mobility support, and reduce the...Fulfilling the gap in Marine Special Operations Command with a dedicated Marine special operations helicopter unit is necessary. Concisely, this will

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

Melancon, R.

In June, 1995, the National Petroleum Refiners Association (NPRA) adhoc committee on Contractor Safety Training, turned over the task of developing reciprocity agreements with all Contractor Safety Training Councils to the Executive Directors of each of the Council`s. The Council representatives were to develop these agreements based on the NPRA adhoc committee training objectives that were developed jointly by representatives of the petroleum industry, chemical industry, contractors and the Council`s.

The Utility of a Discount Methodology for Implementing Congressional Intent Regarding Section 254 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996: Preliminary Findings and Executive Summary.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Missouri Univ., Columbia. Rural Policy Research Inst.

The goal of Section 254 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 is the "equality of affordable, comparably priced access to telecommunication services by schools, libraries, and hospitals regardless of geographic location." The purposes of this study were to provide decision support information to the Joint Board and Federal Communications…

Joint ventures win the draw. Judge's ruling to revive tax exemption for Texas system spells good news for investor-owned systems, not-for-profits seeking deals.

PubMed

Taylor, Mark

2002-06-17

A ruling by a federal judge reinstating the tax exemption of St. David's Health Care System in Austin, Texas, has taught the Internal Revenue Service a hard lesson about the toughness of Texas. No one was happier with the judge's decision than St. David's President and Chief Executive Officer.

Defense Headquarters: Geographic Combatant Commands Rely on Subordinate Commands for Mission Management and Execution

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-06-30

These figures do not include personnel performing contract services. The service component commands , subordinate unified commands , and joint task forces...GAO has previously found that the combatant commands do not have oversight or visibility over authorized manpower or assigned personnel at the...Jack Reed Ranking Member Committee on Armed Services United States Senate Defense Headquarters: Geographic Combatant Commands Rely on Subordinate

Human Factor Assessment in Support of Joint Operations

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-05-04

5d. PROJECT NUMBER LCDR Roy Hoffman, USN 5e. TASK NUMBER Paper Advisor: CDR Mark McManus, USN 5f. WORK UNIT...for example in circumstances under which “a preponderance of life stressors … or unknown personal stress” are affecting an individual’s performance...council composition, for example , best practices suggest that representatives should be present from executive, medical, chaplain, and psychological

The RITE Approach to Agile Acquisition

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-04-01

SSCPAC. He currently provides project management and technical support to the Global Command and Control System–Joint (GCCS-J) Integrated Imagery and...the Strike Planning and Execution Systems Program Office (PMA-281). Boyce has a Bachelor of Science degree in information systems management and is...has since provided dedicated professional service to the USAF, NAVSUP, and SSCPAC. Roussel has a Bachelor of Science degree in management and a Master

Operational Focused Simulation

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-12-01

selected technologies. In order to build the scenario to fit the vignette, the Theater Battle Management Core System ( TBMCS ) databases were adjusted... TBMCS program provided an automated and integrated capability to plan and execute the air battle plan for the modeling and simulation efforts. TBMCS ...is the operational system of record for the Air and Space Operations Center Weapons System (AOC WS). TBMCS provides the Joint/Combined Forces Air

Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical and Biological Defense Strategic Plan FY13-18

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-06-01

strategy calls for a global Biosurveillance network for timely disease surveillance of biological pathogens whether intentionally made or naturally... Biosurveillance . The President and Secretary of Defense provided renewed emphasis on rapidly and efficiently developing and manufacturing effective medical...and Force Protection Solutions to the Whole of Government and the Nation  Provide MCM for pre- and post- radiation exposure application , including

Proceedings of a Workshop on Applications of Tethers in Space: Executive Summary

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Baracat, W. A. (Compiler)

1986-01-01

The workshop was attended by persons from government, industry, and academic institutions to discuss the rapidly evolving area of tether applications in space. Many new applications were presented at the workshop, and existing applications were revised, refined, and prioritized as to which applications should be implemented and when. The workshop concluded with summaries developed individually and jointly by each of the applications panels.

Personnel Security during Joint Operations with Foreign Military Forces

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-08-01

century society into the twenty-first century encounters a number of obstacles. Illiteracy and innumeracy rates are high, and repressive social values are...warfare. In 1978 the communist-backed PDPA assassi- nated Mohammad Daoud and implemented sweeping but ill-conceived social reforms. Afghan civilians were...Operations with Foreign Military Forces Feature quickly degraded into executions for social infractions like blasphemy. Repression soon followed, and the

Interim Report of the Defense Science Board (DSB) Task Force on the Survivability of Systems and Assets to Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) and other Nuclear Weapon Effects (NWE)

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-08-01

Bob Hermann Dr. Maneck Master Dr. Gordon Soper Dr. Jim Tegnelia Dr. Joan Woodard Executive Secretaries (DFOs) John Franco, DTRA COL Jeffrey...Helen Mearns, Ms Kari O’Dell, Joint CBRO Appendix C: Presentations to the Task Force Name Topic July 15 - 16, 2010 Dr. Gordon Soper

Compensatory motor control after stroke: an alternative joint strategy for object-dependent shaping of hand posture.

PubMed

Raghavan, Preeti; Santello, Marco; Gordon, Andrew M; Krakauer, John W

2010-06-01

Efficient grasping requires planned and accurate coordination of finger movements to approximate the shape of an object before contact. In healthy subjects, hand shaping is known to occur early in reach under predominantly feedforward control. In patients with hemiparesis after stroke, execution of coordinated digit motion during grasping is impaired as a result of damage to the corticospinal tract. The question addressed here is whether patients with hemiparesis are able to compensate for their execution deficit with a qualitatively different grasp strategy that still allows them to differentiate hand posture to object shape. Subjects grasped a rectangular, concave, and convex object while wearing an instrumented glove. Reach-to-grasp was divided into three phases based on wrist kinematics: reach acceleration (reach onset to peak horizontal wrist velocity), reach deceleration (peak horizontal wrist velocity to reach offset), and grasp (reach offset to lift-off). Patients showed reduced finger abduction, proximal interphalangeal joint (PIP) flexion, and metacarpophalangeal joint (MCP) extension at object grasp across all three shapes compared with controls; however, they were able to partially differentiate hand posture for the convex and concave shapes using a compensatory strategy that involved increased MCP flexion rather than the PIP flexion seen in controls. Interestingly, shape-specific hand postures did not unfold initially during reach acceleration as seen in controls, but instead evolved later during reach deceleration, which suggests increased reliance on sensory feedback. These results indicate that kinematic analysis can identify and quantify within-limb compensatory motor control strategies after stroke. From a clinical perspective, quantitative study of compensation is important to better understand the process of recovery from brain injury. From a motor control perspective, compensation can be considered a model for how joint redundancy is exploited to accomplish the task goal through redistribution of work across effectors.

Reconstruction of shifting elbow joint compliant characteristics during fast and slow movements.

PubMed

Latash, M L; Gottlieb, G L

1991-01-01

The purpose of this study was to experimentally investigate the applicability of the equilibrium-point hypothesis to the dynamics of single-joint movements. Subjects were trained to perform relatively slow (movement time 600-1000 ms) or fast (movement time 200-300 ms) single-joint elbow flexion movements against a constant extending torque bias. They were instructed to reproduce the same time pattern of central motor command for a series of movements when the external torque could slowly and unpredictably increase, decrease, or remain constant. For fast movements, the total muscle torque was calculated as a sum of external and inertial components. Analysis of the data allowed reconstruction of the elbow joint compliant characteristics at different times during execution of the learned motor command. "Virtual" trajectories of the movements, representing time-varying changes in a central control parameter, were reconstructed and compared with the "actual" trajectories. For slow movements, the actual trajectories lagged behind the virtual ones. There were no consistent changes in the joint stiffness during slow movements. Similar analysis of experiments without voluntary movements demonstrated a lack of changes in the central parameters, supporting the assumption that the subjects were able to keep the same central motor command in spite of externally imposed unexpected torque perturbations. For the fast movements, the virtual trajectories were N-shaped, and the joint stiffness demonstrated a considerable increase near the middle of the movement. These findings contradict an hypothesis of monotonic joint compliant characteristic translation at a nearly constant rate during such movements.

Hand kinematics of piano playing

PubMed Central

Flanders, Martha; Soechting, John F.

2011-01-01

Dexterous use of the hand represents a sophisticated sensorimotor function. In behaviors such as playing the piano, it can involve strong temporal and spatial constraints. The purpose of this study was to determine fundamental patterns of covariation of motion across joints and digits of the human hand. Joint motion was recorded while 5 expert pianists played 30 excerpts from musical pieces, which featured ∼50 different tone sequences and fingering. Principal component analysis and cluster analysis using an expectation-maximization algorithm revealed that joint velocities could be categorized into several patterns, which help to simplify the description of the movements of the multiple degrees of freedom of the hand. For the thumb keystroke, two distinct patterns of joint movement covariation emerged and they depended on the spatiotemporal patterns of the task. For example, the thumb-under maneuver was clearly separated into two clusters based on the direction of hand translation along the keyboard. While the pattern of the thumb joint velocities differed between these clusters, the motions at the metacarpo-phalangeal and proximal-phalangeal joints of the four fingers were more consistent. For a keystroke executed with one of the fingers, there were three distinct patterns of joint rotations, across which motion at the striking finger was fairly consistent, but motion of the other fingers was more variable. Furthermore, the amount of movement spillover of the striking finger to the adjacent fingers was small irrespective of the finger used for the keystroke. These findings describe an unparalleled amount of independent motion of the fingers. PMID:21880938

VA/DoD Joint Executive Council Fiscal Year 2010

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-01-01

forced the cancellation of both courses this FY. Training was rescheduled for November 2010. Efforts to leverage patient reception exercise...private sector. The project will allow the 3rd MDG to contract for one anesthesiologist and one support nurse . Cost: $1,217,600 James A. Haley...Staffing requirements are two registered nurses , four dialysis technicians, and one administrative technician. Cost: $1,790,750 San Diego VAMC/NMC San

Fires. A Joint Publication for U.S. Artillery Professionals. January - February 2010

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-01-01

Reduced autobiographical memory specificity and post-traumatic stress: Exploring the contributions of impaired executive control and affect...regulation” by T. Dalgleish et al. in the Journal of Abnormal Psychology which was published in 2008 and “Reduced specificity of autobiographical memory ...show lapses in memory and an ability to focus, a deficit that often persisted more than two months after they arrived home. (See “Neuropsychological

People Make the City, Executive Summary: Joint Urban Operations Observations and Insights from Afghanistan and Iraq

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-01-01

the importance of cities as social, economic, diplomatic, cultural , transportation, and other types of hubs...indigenous population and culture .4 • Shape—Create favorable conditions for the engage and consoli- date phases. Influence the strategic setting, control of ...shaping. Cultural understanding is key to every aspect of urban operations success. The extent to which the military is to be a social-engineering

Dental Considerations in a Unified Medical Command

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-03-23

control, taking the Navy Dental Corps back to its pre -1946 5 status. The ADA, through major policies adopted to date, opposes such relationships...future Institute of Surgical Research at Fort Sam Houston with the Army as the executive agent. Dental research is extremely important to support...educations, while contributing to the dental readiness of their respective populations. The Orthodontic program at Wilford Hall is an example of a joint

2007 Precision Strike Winter Roundtable - Precision Engagement - Strategic Context for the Long War

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-02-01

but also to import Mercedes - Benzes , pricey cognacs and other luxury items to buy loyalty. Washington fears that North Korea could decide to use its...Cappuccio—Executive Vice President and General Manager, Advanced Development Programs & Strategic Planning, Lockheed Martin Company JOINT INNOVATION ... Innovative Minds Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company Frank Cappuccio, February 1, 2007 Precision Strike Winter Roundtable “Long Range Strike Weapons” 2Lockheed

Anticipating and Understanding the Rebalance: Exercise Nine Innings, USMC Command and Staff College

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-06-21

USPACOM, professional military education , PME, Command and Staff College, training, education , Exercise Nine Innings, regional security challenges The...essence, professional military education had to keep up with the tempo of the evolution of warfare in the twenty-first century. Knowing and...operations existing in differing phases of execution, gained great- er interest among education commands, the Marine Corps, and joint leader- ship.4

Beyond Bloom, Memorization, and Regurgitation: Forging the Path to a 21st Century PME

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-12-04

due in large part to the rapid changes of technology , rise in hostile nonstate actors, and globalization. However, the Joint Force possesses a combat...procedures, and policies while innovatively employing new technologies .”35 With senior leaders pushing to address inefficiencies, advocates for improved...resident PME staffs, mostly military personnel without academic credentials, comprise the core faculty responsible for writing and executing

Joint Center for Operational Analysis Journal. Volume 12, Issue 3, Winter 2010-2011

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-01-01

building . One technique that worked well involved demonstra- tion projects such as green houses, center-pivot and drip irrigation, and grain silos...or other professional objectives such that failure is not really verifiable. A common example from foreign assistance project objectives is... professionals . Indeed, there is a long litany of far more egregious and damaging projects wholly planned and executed by development professionals

Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM)

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-12-01

February 19, 2015 and the O&S cost are based on an ICE dated August 28, 2014 Confidence Level Confidence Level of cost estimate for current APB: 50% A...mathematically derived confidence level was not computed for this Life-Cycle Cost Estimate (LCCE). This LCCE represents the expected value, taking into...consideration relevant risks, including ordinary levels of external and unforeseen events. It aims to provide sufficient resources to execute the

Theater Combat Search and Rescue

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-05-06

response to crises requiring the use of military forces. Theater CINCs receive mission taskings through a warning order transmitted from 5 0 the Joint...Chiefs of Staff. This warning order allocates specific military forces that CINCs may use when planning various courses of action. The CINCs complete and...consists of the President and the 5 Secretary of Defense, and is the only approving authority to order execution of a military action. 10 Deliberate

Special Operations Forces: Opportunities Exist to Improve Transparency of Funding and Assess Potential to Lessen Some Deployments

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-07-01

pace of special operations deployments, but opportunities may exist to better balance the workload across the joint force because activities...executes funding in operation and maintenance; procurement; research , development, test, and evaluation; and military construction accounts.13 SOCOM...regional awareness. Moreover, officials noted that increases in civilian positions were driven partly by DOD’s attempts to rebalance workload and become a

Why Leadership Matters: Joint Task Force Planning with the Department of State

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-12-10

studies: (1) Operation Just Cause, the intervention into Panama to remove the regime of Manuel Noriega and (2) Operation Uphold Democracy; an intervention...States sphere of influence. Conversely, the invasion of Panama specifically targeted the regime of Manuel Noriega and restoration of the legally elected...OPERATION JUST CAUSE Operation Just Cause was executed to remove the regime of Panamanian dictator Manuel Noriega. The reasoning behind the

Commander’s Handbook for Strategic Communication and Communication Strategy

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-06-24

designed to gather SC educators and key practitioners for thoughtful discussions on SC education and training issues. KLE is not about engaging key...operational design and early joint operation planning process to identify indicators that will enable us to detect when it is time to “reframe” the problem...integrating process across DOD, included in concept and doctrine development, strategy and plan design , execution, and assessment, and incorporated

About opportunities of the sharing of city infrastructure centralized warmly - and water supply

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zamaleev, M. M.; Gubin, I. V.; Sharapov, V. I.

2017-11-01

It is shown that joint use of engineering infrastructure of centralized heat and water supply of consumers will be the cost-efficient decision for municipal services of the city. The new technology for regulated heating of drinking water in the condenser of steam turbines of combined heat and power plant is offered. Calculation of energy efficiency from application of new technology is executed.

Developing Military Health Care Leaders

PubMed Central

Kirby, Sheila Nataraj; Marsh, Julie A.; McCombs, Jennifer Sloan; Thie, Harry J.; Xia, Nailing; Sollinger, Jerry M.

2011-01-01

Abstract The U.S. Department of Defense has highlighted the importance of preparing health care leaders to succeed in joint, performance-based environments. The current wartime environment, rising health care costs, and an increased focus on joint operations have led to recommendations for Military Health System (MHS) transformation. Part of that transformation will involve improving the identification and development of potential MHS leaders. An examination of how candidates are identified for leadership positions, the training and education opportunities offered to them, and the competencies they are expected to achieve revealed both a range of approaches and several commonalities in the military, civilian, and government sectors. A conceptual framework guided a series of interviews with senior health care executives from a wide range of organizations and military health care leaders from the Army, Navy, and Air Force, as well as a case study of the leader development approaches used by the Veterans Health Administration. Several themes emerged in terms of how leaders are developed in each sector, including the importance of mentoring, career counseling, 360-degree feedback, self-development, and formal education and training programs. Lessons learned in the civilian and government sectors hold importance for transforming the way in which MHS identifies and develops health care officers with high leadership potential for senior executive positions. PMID:28083164

Sustaining the edge: factors influencing strategy selection in academic health centers.

PubMed

Walsh, Anne M; Szabat, Kathryn

2002-01-01

Competition within the acute care sector as well as increased penetration by managed care organizations has influenced the structure and role of academic health centers during the past decade. The market factors confronting academic health centers are not dissimilar from conditions that confront other organizations competing in mature industries characterized by declining profitability and intense rivalry for market share. When confronted with intense competition or adverse external events, organizations in other industries have responded to potential threats by forming alliances, developing joint ventures, or merging with another firm to maintain their competitive advantage. Although mergers and acquisitions dominated the strategic landscape in the healthcare industry during the past decade, recent evidence suggests that other types of strategic ventures may offer similar economic and contracting benefits to member organizations. Academic health centers have traditionally been involved in network relationships with multiple partners via their shared technology, collaborative research, and joint educational endeavors. These quasi-organizational relationships appear to have provided a framework for strategic decisions and allowed executives of academic health centers to select strategies that were competitive yet closely aligned with their organizational mission. The analysis of factors that influenced strategy selection by executives of academic health centers suggests a deliberate and methodical approach to achieving market share objectives, expanding managed care contracts, and developing physician networks.

Evaluation of automated decisionmaking methodologies and development of an integrated robotic system simulation, volume 2, part 1. Appendix A: Software documentation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lowrie, J. W.; Fermelia, A. J.; Haley, D. C.; Gremban, K. D.; Vanbaalen, J.; Walsh, R. W.

1982-01-01

Documentation of the preliminary software developed as a framework for a generalized integrated robotic system simulation is presented. The program structure is composed of three major functions controlled by a program executive. The three major functions are: system definition, analysis tools, and post processing. The system definition function handles user input of system parameters and definition of the manipulator configuration. The analysis tools function handles the computational requirements of the program. The post processing function allows for more detailed study of the results of analysis tool function executions. Also documented is the manipulator joint model software to be used as the basis of the manipulator simulation which will be part of the analysis tools capability.

Distributed computer system enhances productivity for SRB joint optimization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rogers, James L., Jr.; Young, Katherine C.; Barthelemy, Jean-Francois M.

1987-01-01

Initial calculations of a redesign of the solid rocket booster joint that failed during the shuttle tragedy showed that the design had a weight penalty associated with it. Optimization techniques were to be applied to determine if there was any way to reduce the weight while keeping the joint opening closed and limiting the stresses. To allow engineers to examine as many alternatives as possible, a system was developed consisting of existing software that coupled structural analysis with optimization which would execute on a network of computer workstations. To increase turnaround, this system took advantage of the parallelism offered by the finite difference technique of computing gradients to allow several workstations to contribute to the solution of the problem simultaneously. The resulting system reduced the amount of time to complete one optimization cycle from two hours to one-half hour with a potential of reducing it to 15 minutes. The current distributed system, which contains numerous extensions, requires one hour turnaround per optimization cycle. This would take four hours for the sequential system.

Experimental Research on Fatigue Failure for 2219-T6 Aluminum Alloy Friction Stir-Welded Joints

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Guo-Qin; Niu, Jiang-Pei; Chen, Ya-Jing; Sun, Feng-Yang; Shang, De-Guang; Chen, Shu-Jun

2017-08-01

The fatigue experiment was executed for the 2219-T6 aluminum alloy friction stir-welded joints at the rotation speed of 800 r/min and the welding velocity of 150 mm/min. Most fatigue failures occurred in the weld nugget zone (WNZ), the thermo-mechanical affected zone and the nearby areas. The experimental results demonstrated that the sudden hardness gradient increases sites corresponding to the fatigue failure locations. The high-angle grain boundaries with the highest concentration were scattered within the WNZ. The microcracks initiated at the intersection of the soft grains. More than one crack initiation site was observed within the WNZ and the thermo-mechanical affected zone, when the fracture occurred in these areas. The rough surface of the welding area should be one of the main reasons for the fatigue failure occurrence. The fatigue crack growth rate in the WNZ at the first stage was fastest in comparison with the fatigue crack growth rate in the other areas of the joint.

Kinematically redundant robot manipulators

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Baillieul, J.; Hollerbach, J.; Brockett, R.; Martin, D.; Percy, R.; Thomas, R.

1987-01-01

Research on control, design and programming of kinematically redundant robot manipulators (KRRM) is discussed. These are devices in which there are more joint space degrees of freedom than are required to achieve every position and orientation of the end-effector necessary for a given task in a given workspace. The technological developments described here deal with: kinematic programming techniques for automatically generating joint-space trajectories to execute prescribed tasks; control of redundant manipulators to optimize dynamic criteria (e.g., applications of forces and moments at the end-effector that optimally distribute the loading of actuators); and design of KRRMs to optimize functionality in congested work environments or to achieve other goals unattainable with non-redundant manipulators. Kinematic programming techniques are discussed, which show that some pseudo-inverse techniques that have been proposed for redundant manipulator control fail to achieve the goals of avoiding kinematic singularities and also generating closed joint-space paths corresponding to close paths of the end effector in the workspace. The extended Jacobian is proposed as an alternative to pseudo-inverse techniques.

Using speech for mode selection in control of multifunctional myoelectric prostheses.

PubMed

Fang, Peng; Wei, Zheng; Geng, Yanjuan; Yao, Fuan; Li, Guanglin

2013-01-01

Electromyogram (EMG) recorded from residual muscles of limbs is considered as suitable control information for motorized prostheses. However, in case of high-level amputations, the residual muscles are usually limited, which may not provide enough EMG for flexible control of myoelectric prostheses with multiple degrees of freedom of movements. Here, we proposed a control strategy, where the speech signals were used as additional information and combined with the EMG signals to realize more flexible control of multifunctional prostheses. By replacing the traditional "sequential mode-switching (joint-switching)", the speech signals were used to select a mode (joint) of the prosthetic arm, and then the EMG signals were applied to determine a motion class involved in the selected joint and to execute the motion. Preliminary results from three able-bodied subjects and one transhumeral amputee demonstrated the proposed strategy could achieve a high mode-selection rate and enhance the operation efficiency, suggesting the strategy may improve the control performance of commercial myoelectric prostheses.

A dual-beam spectropluviometer concept

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Delahaye, J.-Y.; Barthès, L.; Golé, P.; Lavergnat, J.; Vinson, J. P.

2006-08-01

SummaryA dual beam spectropluviometer (DBS) measuring the equivalent diameter D, the fall velocity V and the time T of arrival of particles is presented. Its main advantage over previous optical disdrometers is the whole measurement range of atmospheric precipitating particles near the ground. In the bottom part of the size range, 0.1 mm has been the smallest observable diameter. The means for obtaining such results are (i) two uniform infrared beams of rectangular cross-section 2 mm in height, 40 mm in width and 250 mm in length, with a 2 mm vertical gap in-between, (ii) a dual 16-bit analog to digital converter, (iii) a dedicated program for extracting the three parameters in real time by computing the signal slopes and determining the correlation between both channels used in this first version of the instrument, (iv) various means for reducing spurious detections caused by splashing, vibration and sunlight. Laboratory tests and typical rain measurements are shown. The DBS is particularly suited for extensive atmospheric and radio propagation research applications where the smallest drops were not correctly estimated in the distributions because of the lack of appropriate measurement devices.

Runoff forecasting using a Takagi-Sugeno neuro-fuzzy model with online learning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Talei, Amin; Chua, Lloyd Hock Chye; Quek, Chai; Jansson, Per-Erik

2013-04-01

SummaryA study using local learning Neuro-Fuzzy System (NFS) was undertaken for a rainfall-runoff modeling application. The local learning model was first tested on three different catchments: an outdoor experimental catchment measuring 25 m2 (Catchment 1), a small urban catchment 5.6 km2 in size (Catchment 2), and a large rural watershed with area of 241.3 km2 (Catchment 3). The results obtained from the local learning model were comparable or better than results obtained from physically-based, i.e. Kinematic Wave Model (KWM), Storm Water Management Model (SWMM), and Hydrologiska Byråns Vattenbalansavdelning (HBV) model. The local learning algorithm also required a shorter training time compared to a global learning NFS model. The local learning model was next tested in real-time mode, where the model was continuously adapted when presented with current information in real time. The real-time implementation of the local learning model gave better results, without the need for retraining, when compared to a batch NFS model, where it was found that the batch model had to be retrained periodically in order to achieve similar results.

Development of a New Robotic Ankle Rehabilitation Platform for Hemiplegic Patients after Stroke

PubMed Central

Duan, Lihong

2018-01-01

A large amount of hemiplegic survivors are suffering from motor impairment. Ankle rehabilitation exercises act an important role in recovering patients' walking ability after stroke. Currently, patients mainly perform ankle exercise to reobtain range of motion (ROM) and strength of the ankle joint under a therapist's assistance by manual operation. However, therapists suffer from high work intensity, and most of the existed rehabilitation devices focus on ankle functional training and ignore the importance of neurological rehabilitation in the early hemiplegic stage. In this paper, a new robotic ankle rehabilitation platform (RARP) is proposed to assist patients in executing ankle exercise. The robotic platform consists of two three-DOF symmetric layer-stacking mechanisms, which can execute ankle internal/external rotation, dorsiflexion/plantarflexion, and inversion/eversion exercise while the rotation center of the distal zone of the robotic platform always coincides with patients' ankle pivot center. Three exercise modes including constant-speed exercise, constant torque-impedance exercise, and awareness exercise are developed to execute ankle training corresponding to different rehabilitation stages. Experiments corresponding to these three ankle exercise modes are performed, the result demonstrated that the RARP is capable of executing ankle rehabilitation, and the novel awareness exercise mode motivates patients to proactively participate in ankle training. PMID:29736231

Developmental Pathways from Prenatal Tobacco and Stress Exposure to Behavioral Disinhibition

PubMed Central

Clark, C.A.C.; Espy, K.A.; Wakschlag, L.

2016-01-01

Prenatal tobacco exposure (PTE) and prenatal stress exposure (PSE) each have been linked to externalizing behavior, although their effects generally have been considered in isolation. Here, we aimed to characterize the joint or interactive roles of PTE and PSE in early developmental pathways to behavioral disinhibition, a profile of cognitive and behavioral under-control that presages severe externalizing behavior. As part of a prospective, longitudinal study, 296 children were assessed at a mean age of 5 years. Exposures were assessed via repeated interviews across the prenatal period and bioassays of cotinine were obtained. Behavioral disinhibition was assessed using temperament measures in infancy, performance-based executive control tasks and measures of disruptive and inattentive behavior. PSE was associated with a higher probability of difficult temperament in infancy. Each exposure independently predicted poorer executive control at age 5 years. Difficult temperament and executive control difficulties in turn predicted elevated levels of disruptive behavior, although links from PTE and PSE to parent-reported attention problems were less robust. Children who experienced these prenatal exposures in conjunction with higher postnatal stress exposure showed the lowest executive control and highest levels of disruptive behavior. Findings highlight the compounding adverse impact of PTE and PSE on children’s behavioral trajectories. Given their high concordance, prenatal health campaigns should target these exposures in tandem. PMID:26628107

On the Value of Estimating Human Arm Stiffness during Virtual Teleoperation with Robotic Manipulators

PubMed Central

Buzzi, Jacopo; Ferrigno, Giancarlo; Jansma, Joost M.; De Momi, Elena

2017-01-01

Teleoperated robotic systems are widely spreading in multiple different fields, from hazardous environments exploration to surgery. In teleoperation, users directly manipulate a master device to achieve task execution at the slave robot side; this interaction is fundamental to guarantee both system stability and task execution performance. In this work, we propose a non-disruptive method to study the arm endpoint stiffness. We evaluate how users exploit the kinetic redundancy of the arm to achieve stability and precision during the execution of different tasks with different master devices. Four users were asked to perform two planar trajectories following virtual tasks using both a serial and a parallel link master device. Users' arm kinematics and muscular activation were acquired and combined with a user-specific musculoskeletal model to estimate the joint stiffness. Using the arm kinematic Jacobian, the arm end-point stiffness was derived. The proposed non-disruptive method is capable of estimating the arm endpoint stiffness during the execution of virtual teleoperated tasks. The obtained results are in accordance with the existing literature in human motor control and show, throughout the tested trajectory, a modulation of the arm endpoint stiffness that is affected by task characteristics and hand speed and acceleration. PMID:29018319

Inverse Kinematics for Upper Limb Compound Movement Estimation in Exoskeleton-Assisted Rehabilitation.

PubMed

Cortés, Camilo; de Los Reyes-Guzmán, Ana; Scorza, Davide; Bertelsen, Álvaro; Carrasco, Eduardo; Gil-Agudo, Ángel; Ruiz-Salguero, Oscar; Flórez, Julián

2016-01-01

Robot-Assisted Rehabilitation (RAR) is relevant for treating patients affected by nervous system injuries (e.g., stroke and spinal cord injury). The accurate estimation of the joint angles of the patient limbs in RAR is critical to assess the patient improvement. The economical prevalent method to estimate the patient posture in Exoskeleton-based RAR is to approximate the limb joint angles with the ones of the Exoskeleton. This approximation is rough since their kinematic structures differ. Motion capture systems (MOCAPs) can improve the estimations, at the expenses of a considerable overload of the therapy setup. Alternatively, the Extended Inverse Kinematics Posture Estimation (EIKPE) computational method models the limb and Exoskeleton as differing parallel kinematic chains. EIKPE has been tested with single DOF movements of the wrist and elbow joints. This paper presents the assessment of EIKPE with elbow-shoulder compound movements (i.e., object prehension). Ground-truth for estimation assessment is obtained from an optical MOCAP (not intended for the treatment stage). The assessment shows EIKPE rendering a good numerical approximation of the actual posture during the compound movement execution, especially for the shoulder joint angles. This work opens the horizon for clinical studies with patient groups, Exoskeleton models, and movements types.

Preparation time influences ankle and knee joint control during dynamic change of direction movements.

PubMed

Fuerst, Patrick; Gollhofer, Albert; Gehring, Dominic

2017-04-01

The influence of preparation time on ankle joint biomechanics during highly dynamic movements is largely unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of limited preparation time on ankle joint loading during highly dynamic run-and-cut movements. Thirteen male basketball players performed 45°-sidestep-cutting and 180°-turning manoeuvres in reaction to light signals which appeared during the approach run. Both movements were executed under (1) an easy condition, in which the light signal appeared very early, (2) a medium condition and (3) a hard condition with very little time to prepare the movements. Maximum ankle inversion angles, moments and velocities during ground contact, as well as EMG signals of three lower extremity muscles, were analysed. In 180°-turning movements, reduced preparation time led to significantly increased maximum ankle inversion velocities. Muscular activation levels, however, did not change. Increased inversion velocities, without accompanying changes in muscular activation, may have the potential to destabilise the ankle joint when less preparation time is available. This may result in a higher injury risk during turning movements and should therefore be considered in ankle injury research and the aetiology of ankle sprains.

Joint angles of the ankle, knee, and hip and loading conditions during split squats.

PubMed

Schütz, Pascal; List, Renate; Zemp, Roland; Schellenberg, Florian; Taylor, William R; Lorenzetti, Silvio

2014-06-01

The aim of this study was to quantify how step length and the front tibia angle influence joint angles and loading conditions during the split squat exercise. Eleven subjects performed split squats with an additional load of 25% body weight applied using a barbell. Each subject's movements were recorded using a motion capture system, and the ground reaction force was measured under each foot. The joint angles and loading conditions were calculated using a cluster-based kinematic approach and inverse dynamics modeling respectively. Increases in the tibia angle resulted in a smaller range of motion (ROM) of the front knee and a larger ROM of the rear knee and hip. The external flexion moment in the front knee/hip and the external extension moment in the rear hip decreased as the tibia angle increased. The flexion moment in the rear knee increased as the tibia angle increased. The load distribution between the legs changed < 25% when split squat execution was varied. Our results describing the changes in joint angles and the resulting differences in the moments of the knee and hip will allow coaches and therapists to adapt the split squat exercise to the individual motion and load demands of athletes.

Experimental analysis of mechanical joints strength by means of energy dissipation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wolf, Alexander; Lafarge, Remi; Kühn, Tino; Brosius, Alexander

2018-05-01

Designing complex structures with the demand for weight reduction leads directly to a multi-material concept. This mixture has to be joined securely and welding, mechanical joining and the usage of adhesives are commonly used for that purpose. Sometimes also a mix of at least two materials is useful to combine the individual advantages. The challenge is the non-destructive testing of these connections because destructive testing requires a lot of preparation and expensive testing equipment. The authors show a testing method by measuring and analysing the energy dissipation in mechanical joints. Known methods are radiography, thermography and ultrasound testing. Unfortunately, the usage of these methods is difficult and often not usable in fibre-reinforced-plastics. The presented approach measures the propagation of the elastic strain wave through the joint. A defined impact strain is detected with by strain-gauges whereby the transmitter is located on one side of the joint and the receiver on the other, respectively. Because of different mechanisms, energy dissipates by passing the joint areas. Main reasons are damping caused by friction and material specific damping. Insufficient performed joints lead to an effect especially in the friction damping. By the measurement of the different strains and the resulting energy loss a statement to the connection quality is given. The possible defect during the execution of the joint can be identified by the energy loss and strain vs. time curve. After the description of the method, the authors present the results of energy dissipation measurements at a bolted assembly with different locking torques. By the adjustable tightening torques for the screw connections easily a variation of the contact pressure can be applied and analysed afterwards. The outlook will give a statement for the usability for other mechanical joints and fibre-reinforced-plastics.

Effects of laser-weld joint opening size on fatigue strength of Ti-6Al-4V structures with several diameters.

PubMed

Nuñez-Pantoja, J M C; Vaz, L G; Nóbilo, M A A; Henriques, G E P; Mesquita, M F

2011-03-01

This study was conducted to evaluate the fatigue strength of Ti-6Al-4V laser-welded joints with several diameters and joint openings. Sixty dumbbell rods were machined in Ti-6Al-4V alloy with central diameters of 1·5, 2·0 and 3·5 mm. The specimens were sectioned and then welded using two joint openings (0·0 and 0·6 mm). The combination of variables created six groups, which when added to the intact groups made a total of nine groups (n = 10). Laser welding was executed as follows: 360 V per 8 ms (1·5 and 2·0 mm) and 380 V per 9 ms (3·5 mm) with focus and frequency regulated to zero. The joints were finished, polished and submitted to radiographic examination to be analysed visually for the presence of porosity. The specimens were then subjected to a mechanical cyclic test, and the number of cycles until failure was recorded. The fracture surface was examined with a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The Kruskal-Wallis test and Dunn test (α = 0·05) indicated that the number of cycles required for fracture was lower for all specimens with joint openings of 0·6 mm, and for 3·5-mm-diameter specimens with joint openings of 0·0 mm. The Spearman correlation coefficient (α = 0·05) indicated that there was a negative correlation between the number of cycles and the presence of porosity. So, laser welding of Ti-6Al-4V structures with a thin diameter provides the best conditions for the juxtaposition of parts. Radiographic examination allows for the detection of internal voids in titanium joints. © 2010 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Cognitive Decline and Its Risk Factors in Prevalent Hemodialysis Patients.

PubMed

Drew, David A; Weiner, Daniel E; Tighiouart, Hocine; Duncan, Sarah; Gupta, Aditi; Scott, Tammy; Sarnak, Mark J

2017-06-01

Cognitive impairment is common in patients treated with hemodialysis. The trajectory of cognitive function and risk factors for cognitive decline remain uncertain in this population. Longitudinal cohort. 314 prevalent hemodialysis patients. Age, sex, race, education level, hemodialysis vintage, cause of end-stage renal disease, and baseline history of cardiovascular disease. Cognitive function as determined by a comprehensive neurocognitive battery, administered at baseline and yearly when possible. Individual cognitive test results were reduced into 2 domain scores using principal components analysis, representing memory and executive function, which were used as our coprimary outcomes and by definition have a mean of zero and SD of 1. Mean age was 63 years; 54% were men, 22% were black, and 90% had at least a high school education. During a median follow-up of 2.1 (IQR, 0.9-4.2) years, 196 had at least 1 follow-up test, 156 died, and 43 received a kidney transplant. Linear mixed models and joint models, which accounted for competing risks from death, dropout, or kidney transplantation, showed nearly identical results. The joint model demonstrated a decline in executive function (-0.09 [95% CI, -0.13 to -0.05] SD per year), whereas memory improved slightly (0.05 [95% CI, 0.02 to 0.08] SD per year). A significant yearly decline was also seen in the Mini-Mental State Examination score (median change, -0.41; 95% CI, -0.57 to -0.25). Older age was the only significant risk factor for steeper executive function decline (-0.04 [95% CI, -0.06 to -0.02] SD steeper annual decline for each 10 years of age). Prevalent hemodialysis patients only, limited follow-up testing due to high mortality rate, and exclusion of participants with severe cognitive deficits or dementia. Prevalent hemodialysis patients demonstrate significant cognitive decline, particularly within tests of executive function. Older age was the only statistically significant risk factor for steeper cognitive decline, which may have important clinical consequences for patient management and education. Future studies should evaluate strategies to maintain or improve cognitive function. Copyright © 2017 National Kidney Foundation, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Cognitive Contributions to Freezing of Gait in Parkinson Disease: Implications for Physical Rehabilitation

PubMed Central

King, Laurie A.; Cohen, Rajal G.; Horak, Fay B.

2016-01-01

People with Parkinson disease (PD) who show freezing of gait also have dysfunction in cognitive domains that interact with mobility. Specifically, freezing of gait is associated with executive dysfunction involving response inhibition, divided attention or switching attention, and visuospatial function. The neural control impairments leading to freezing of gait have recently been attributed to higher-level, executive and attentional cortical processes involved in coordinating posture and gait rather than to lower-level, sensorimotor impairments. To date, rehabilitation for freezing of gait primarily has focused on compensatory mobility training to overcome freezing events, such as sensory cueing and voluntary step planning. Recently, a few interventions have focused on restitutive, rather than compensatory, therapy. Given the documented impairments in executive function specific to patients with PD who freeze and increasing evidence of overlap between cognitive and motor function, incorporating cognitive challenges with mobility training may have important benefits for patients with freezing of gait. Thus, a novel theoretical framework is proposed for exercise interventions that jointly address both the specific cognitive and mobility challenges of people with PD who freeze. PMID:26381808

Cognitive Contributions to Freezing of Gait in Parkinson Disease: Implications for Physical Rehabilitation.

PubMed

Peterson, Daniel S; King, Laurie A; Cohen, Rajal G; Horak, Fay B

2016-05-01

People with Parkinson disease (PD) who show freezing of gait also have dysfunction in cognitive domains that interact with mobility. Specifically, freezing of gait is associated with executive dysfunction involving response inhibition, divided attention or switching attention, and visuospatial function. The neural control impairments leading to freezing of gait have recently been attributed to higher-level, executive and attentional cortical processes involved in coordinating posture and gait rather than to lower-level, sensorimotor impairments. To date, rehabilitation for freezing of gait primarily has focused on compensatory mobility training to overcome freezing events, such as sensory cueing and voluntary step planning. Recently, a few interventions have focused on restitutive, rather than compensatory, therapy. Given the documented impairments in executive function specific to patients with PD who freeze and increasing evidence of overlap between cognitive and motor function, incorporating cognitive challenges with mobility training may have important benefits for patients with freezing of gait. Thus, a novel theoretical framework is proposed for exercise interventions that jointly address both the specific cognitive and mobility challenges of people with PD who freeze. © 2016 American Physical Therapy Association.

Joint Operation Planning and Execution

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-03-01

Review Force Cargo Category Record ............. 261 Review Cargo Details ........................... 262 Tailor Force Record...shown. Tailor Force Cargo, Figure 7.11, is displayed. 261 <Xmit> to accept the update as shown. Tailor Force Cargo, Figure 7.11, is displayed. To review...8217 ZARZS TUNSA P 4S IAP DI’J ENTER FFPN,NPINPF!N,LP/,NPA3E ,. 2,ENr. Figure 12.8 GEOFILE Display After reviewing Figure 12.8, navigate back to the GEOFILE

Joint Battlespace Infosphere: Information Management Within a C2 Enterprise

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-06-01

using. In version 1.2, we support both MySQL and Oracle as underlying implementations where the XML metadata schema is mapped into relational tables in...Identity Servers, Role-Based Access Control, and Policy Representation – Databases: Oracle , MySQL , TigerLogic, Berkeley XML DB 15 Instrumentation Services...converted to SQL for execution. Invocations are then forwarded to the appropriate underlying IOR core components that have the responsibility of issuing

JANNAF Rocket Nozzle Technology Subcommittee Executive Committee Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lawrence, Timothy W.; Munafo, Paul M. (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

This viewgraph presentation provides information on the structure and activities of the panels of the Joint Army Navy NASA Air Force (JANNAF) Rocket Nozzle Technology Subcommittee. The panels profiled are the Processing Science and Materials Panel, the Nozzle Design, Test, and Evaluation Panel, the Nozzle Analysis and Modeling Panel, and the Nozzle Control Systems Panel. The presentation also lists meetings, workshops, and publications in which the subcommittee participated during the reporting period.

USAF Aircraft Maintenance Officer Knowledge, Skills and Abilities and Commonalities among the Logistics Officer Corps

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-02-01

distribution managemen t operations to include managing cargo distribution functions such as receiving, inspecting, tracing, tracking, packaging, and...Production Management DE CDE ABCDEFG Scheduling DE ADEF ABCDEF T ie r 2 Flightline Operations E BDE Systems Engineering D ABDEG Table 19: 21R...logistics units/ elements and as members of general or executive s t affs in t he operating forces, supporting establishment, and joint staffs . They

Geographic Unified Commands (GUCs): A Necessary Step Towards Achieving Unified Action

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-10-23

in more than 150,000 dead or missing, and millions more homeless by the end of the first day17. The enormity of the crisis and lack of applicable... lacking appropriate representation), are never corrected and the ability to execute the plan is significantly impacted. Department of State and other...governmental agency planning organizations typically lack the depth of military personnel, with required joint expertise, that are needed to

The Process of Sensemaking in Complex Human Endeavors

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-06-01

encompassing Joint, Interagency, and Multinational capabilities. The Art and Science of Battle Command LeadUnderstand CDR / Staff ART / Science In short, we...operations. Staff Running Estimates t ff i i Visualize CDR / Staff ART / Science •Planning guidance •Planning guidance •Cdr ’s Intent Describe CDR...Staff ART / Science •Plans & Orders •Preparation •Plans & Orders •Preparation •Execution WF • Intelligence •Maneuver •Fire Support • Protection

Addressing spiritual leadership: an organizational model.

PubMed

Burkhart, Lisa; Solari-Twadell, P Ann; Haas, Sheila

2008-01-01

The Joint Commission requires health systems to address spiritual care. Research indicates that spirituality is associated with better physical, psychological, and social health and that culturally diverse populations and individuals at end-of-life often request spiritual care. The authors report the results of a consensus conference of 21 executives representing 10 large faith-based health systems who discussed the input, process, and outcomes of a corporate model for spiritual leadership. Specific initiatives are highlighted.

DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY: Information on the Office of Enforcement’s Operations

DTIC Science & Technology

2001-03-01

major law enforcement tool and tool for informing the public, on a city by city and national basis, of crime gun trends. Unlike many crime reports...investment in illegal market research (by NIJ) and improved joint understanding of the need to balance prosecution of armed offenders with prosecution of...Workforce Retention and Workload Balancing , which was overseen by an Executive Committee of Assistant Secretary (Enforcement), Assistant Secretary

Theater Medical Information Program Joint Increment 2 (TMIP J Inc 2)

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-03-01

Acquisition Executive DoD - Department of Defense DoDAF - DoD Architecture Framework FD - Full Deployment FDD - Full Deployment Decision FY...the Full Deployment Decision ( FDD ), the TMIP-J Increment 2 Economic Analysis was approved on December 6, 2013. The USD(AT&L) signed an Acquisition...Decision Memorandum (ADM) on December 23, 2013 approving FDD for TMIP-J Increment 2 and establishing the Full Deployment Objective and Threshold dates as

Jointness: A Selected Bibliography

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-12-01

2010. 113pp. (U260 .E33 2010) http://www.rand.org/pubs/monographs/2010/RAND_MG675.pdf Button, Robert , et al . Maritime Prepositioning Force (Future...SiteCollectionDocuments/ILW%20Web-ExclusivePubs/ Land%20Warfare%20Papers/LWP69.pdf Cole, Ronald H., et al . The History of the Unified Command Plan...http://handle.dtic.mil/100.2/ADA479692 Conley, Raymond E., et al . Enhancing the Performance of Senior Department of Defense Civilian Executives

Aerospace Expeditionary Force Implementation and the Effect on Team Cohesion

DTIC Science & Technology

2002-03-01

quickly load UTCs during real world conflicts, deployments, or exercises. The TPFDD is the Joint Operation Planning and Execution System data base... system in mission capable status in an efficeint manner. Time is saved by not having to establish work/personal relationships and new work peocesses...there wasn’t enough time for the system to process backfills for shortfalls that were, in reality, not shortfalls at all but a rainbow package. While

The DISAM Journal of International Security Assistance Management. Volume 29, Number 3, July 2007

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-07-01

with Canada and Mexico, with relatively very few permanently assigned forces . You can read about a number of issues addressed by contributing authors...26 Commander Curtis Jenkins, USNR, Lockheed Martin “Taking the Communication High Ground The Case for a Joint Inter-Agency Task Force ...permanently assigned forces . The command is assigned forces whenever necessary to execute missions, as ordered by the president and secretary of

Skin movement artefact assessment and compensation in the estimation of knee-joint kinematics.

PubMed

Lucchetti, L; Cappozzo, A; Cappello, A; Della Croce, U

1998-11-01

In three dimensional (3-D) human movement analysis using close-range photogrammetry, surface marker clusters deform and rigidly move relative to the underlying bone. This introduces an important artefact (skin movement artefact) which propagates to bone position and orientation and joint kinematics estimates. This occurs to the extent that those joint attitude components that undergo small variations result in totally unreliable values. This paper presents an experimental and analytical procedure, to be included in a subject-specific movement analysis protocol, which allows for the assessment of skin movement artefacts and, based on this knowledge, for their compensation. The effectiveness of this procedure was verified with reference to knee-joint kinematics and to the artefacts caused by the hip movements on markers located on the thigh surface. Quantitative validation was achieved through experimental paradigms whereby prior reliable information on the target joint kinematics was available. When position and orientation of bones were determined during the execution of a motor task, using a least-squares optimal estimator, but the rigid artefactual marker cluster movement was not dealt with, then knee joint translations and rotations were affected by root mean square errors (r.m.s.) up to 14 mm and 6 degrees, respectively. When the rigid artefactual movement was also compensated for, then r.m.s errors were reduced to less than 4 mm and 3 degrees, respectively. In addition, errors originally strongly correlated with hip rotations, after compensation, lost this correlation.

Thermo-Mechanical Characterization of Friction Stir Spot Welded AA7050 Sheets by Means of Experimental and FEM Analyses

PubMed Central

D’Urso, Gianluca; Giardini, Claudio

2016-01-01

The present study was carried out to evaluate how the friction stir spot welding (FSSW) process parameters affect the temperature distribution in the welding region, the welding forces and the mechanical properties of the joints. The experimental study was performed by means of a CNC machine tool obtaining FSSW lap joints on AA7050 aluminum alloy plates. Three thermocouples were inserted into the samples to measure the temperatures at different distance from the joint axis during the whole FSSW process. Experiments was repeated varying the process parameters, namely rotational speed, axial feed rate and plunging depth. Axial welding forces were measured during the tests using a piezoelectric load cell, while the mechanical properties of the joints were evaluated by executing shear tests on the specimens. The correlation found between process parameters and joints properties, allowed to identify the best technological window. The data collected during the experiments were used to validate a simulation model of the FSSW process, too. The model was set up using a 2D approach for the simulation of a 3D problem, in order to guarantee a very simple and practical solution for achieving results in a very short time. A specific external routine for the calculation of the thermal energy due to friction acting between pin and sheet was developed. An index for the prediction of the joint mechanical properties using the FEM simulations was finally presented and validated. PMID:28773810

Thermo-Mechanical Characterization of Friction Stir Spot Welded AA7050 Sheets by Means of Experimental and FEM Analyses.

PubMed

D'Urso, Gianluca; Giardini, Claudio

2016-08-11

The present study was carried out to evaluate how the friction stir spot welding (FSSW) process parameters affect the temperature distribution in the welding region, the welding forces and the mechanical properties of the joints. The experimental study was performed by means of a CNC machine tool obtaining FSSW lap joints on AA7050 aluminum alloy plates. Three thermocouples were inserted into the samples to measure the temperatures at different distance from the joint axis during the whole FSSW process. Experiments was repeated varying the process parameters, namely rotational speed, axial feed rate and plunging depth. Axial welding forces were measured during the tests using a piezoelectric load cell, while the mechanical properties of the joints were evaluated by executing shear tests on the specimens. The correlation found between process parameters and joints properties, allowed to identify the best technological window. The data collected during the experiments were used to validate a simulation model of the FSSW process, too. The model was set up using a 2D approach for the simulation of a 3D problem, in order to guarantee a very simple and practical solution for achieving results in a very short time. A specific external routine for the calculation of the thermal energy due to friction acting between pin and sheet was developed. An index for the prediction of the joint mechanical properties using the FEM simulations was finally presented and validated.

Muscle-Specific Effective Mechanical Advantage and Joint Impulse in Weightlifting.

PubMed

Kipp, Kristof; Harris, Chad

2017-07-01

Kipp, K, and Harris, C. Muscle-specific effective mechanical advantage and joint impulse in weightlifting. J Strength Cond Res 31(7): 1905-1910, 2017-Lifting greater loads during weightlifting exercises may theoretically be achieved through increasing the magnitudes of net joint impulses or manipulating the joints' effective mechanical advantage (EMA). The purpose of this study was to investigate muscle-specific EMA and joint impulse as well as impulse-momentum characteristics of the lifter-barbell system across a range of external loads during the execution of the clean. Collegiate-level weightlifters performed submaximal cleans at 65, 75, and 85% of their 1-repetition maximum (1-RM), whereas data from a motion analysis system and a force plate were used to calculate lifter-barbell system impulse and velocity, as well as net extensor impulse generated at the hip, knee, and ankle joints and the EMA of the gluteus maximus, hamstrings, quadriceps, and triceps surae muscles. The results indicated that the lifter-barbell system impulse did not change as load increased, whereas the velocity of the lifter-barbell system decreased with greater load. In addition, the net extensor impulse at all joints increased as load increased. The EMA of all muscles did not, however, change as load increased. The load-dependent effects on the impulse-velocity characteristics of the lifter-barbell system may reflect musculoskeletal force-velocity behaviors, and may further indicate that the weightlifting performance is limited by the magnitude of ground reaction force impulse. In turn, the load-dependent effects observed at the joint level indicated that lifting greater loads were due to greater net extensor impulses generated at the joints of the lower extremity and not greater EMAs of the respective extensor muscles. In combination, these results suggest that lifting greater external loads during the clean is due to the ability to generate large extensor joint impulses, rather than manipulate EMA.

Method of synthesized phase objects for pattern recognition with rotation invariance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ostroukh, Alexander P.; Butok, Alexander M.; Shvets, Rostislav A.; Yezhov, Pavel V.; Kim, Jin-Tae; Kuzmenko, Alexander V.

2015-11-01

We present a development of the method of synthesized phase objects (SPO-method) [1] for the rotation-invariant pattern recognition. For the standard method of recognition and the SPO-method, the comparison of the parameters of correlation signals for a number of amplitude objects is executed at the realization of a rotation in an optical-digital correlator with the joint Fourier transformation. It is shown that not only the invariance relative to a rotation at a realization of the joint correlation for synthesized phase objects (SP-objects) but also the main advantage of the method of SP-objects over the reference one such as the unified δ-like recognition signal with the largest possible signal-to-noise ratio independent of the type of an object are attained.

Statoil-Himont outlines Antwerp operations

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

Not Available

1992-05-04

Norway's Den morske Stats Oljeselskap AS, the North Sea's largest oil producer, and Himont Inc., the world's largest producer of polypropylene, believe their joint venture complex near Antwerp has changed the traditional structure of the petrochemical industry. At a briefing and press conference, executives from the two companies and their new joint venture, North Sea Petrochemicals, covered their venture and its first 2 months of operation and presented their outlook for the polypropylene market. Statoil stressed its intent to expand petrochemical operations in Europe. The company supplies the complex with all the propane feed and refinery grade propylene its uses.more » The propane comes from Statoil's offshore production, the imported refinery grade propylene from Statoil's Mongstad, Norway, refinery. This paper describes the propylene production process used in Antwerp.« less

A discrete decentralized variable structure robotic controller

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tumeh, Zuheir S.

1989-01-01

A decentralized trajectory controller for robotic manipulators is designed and tested using a multiprocessor architecture and a PUMA 560 robot arm. The controller is made up of a nominal model-based component and a correction component based on a variable structure suction control approach. The second control component is designed using bounds on the difference between the used and actual values of the model parameters. Since the continuous manipulator system is digitally controlled along a trajectory, a discretized equivalent model of the manipulator is used to derive the controller. The motivation for decentralized control is that the derived algorithms can be executed in parallel using a distributed, relatively inexpensive, architecture where each joint is assigned a microprocessor. Nonlinear interaction and coupling between joints is treated as a disturbance torque that is estimated and compensated for.

Adaptive functioning following pediatric traumatic brain injury: Relationship to executive function and processing speed.

PubMed

Shultz, Emily L; Hoskinson, Kristen R; Keim, Madelaine C; Dennis, Maureen; Taylor, H Gerry; Bigler, Erin D; Rubin, Kenneth H; Vannatta, Kathryn; Gerhardt, Cynthia A; Stancin, Terry; Yeates, Keith Owen

2016-10-01

Pediatric traumatic brain injury (TBI) may affect children's ability to perform everyday tasks (i.e., adaptive functioning). Guided by the American Association for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD) model, we explored the association between TBI and adaptive functioning at increasing levels of specificity (global, AAIDD domains, and subscales). We also examined the contributions of executive function and processing speed as mediators of TBI's effects on adaptive functioning. Children (ages 8-13) with severe TBI (STBI; n = 19), mild-moderate TBI (MTBI; n = 50), or orthopedic injury (OI; n = 60) completed measures of executive function (TEA-Ch) and processing speed (WISC-IV) an average of 2.7 years postinjury (SD = 1.2; range: 1-5.3). Parents rated children's adaptive functioning (ABAS-II, BASC-2, CASP). STBI had lower global adaptive functioning (η2 = .04-.08) than the MTBI and OI groups, which typically did not differ. Deficits in the STBI group were particularly evident in the social domain, with specific deficits in social participation, leisure, and social adjustment (η2 = .06-.09). Jointly, executive function and processing speed were mediators of STBI's effects on global adaptive functioning and in conceptual and social domains. In the STBI group, executive function mediated social functioning, and processing speed mediated social participation. Children with STBI experience deficits in adaptive functioning, particularly in social adjustment, with less pronounced deficits in conceptual and practical skills. Executive function and processing speed may mediate the effects of STBI on adaptive functioning. Targeting adaptive functioning and associated cognitive deficits for intervention may enhance quality of life for pediatric TBI survivors. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved).

Adaptive functioning following pediatric traumatic brain injury: Relationship to executive function and processing speed

PubMed Central

Shultz, Emily; Robinson, Kristen E.; Keim, Madelaine; Dennis, Maureen; Taylor, H. Gerry; Bigler, Erin D.; Rubin, Kenneth H.; Vannatta, Kathryn; Gerhardt, Cynthia A.; Stancin, Terry; Yeates, Keith Owen

2016-01-01

Objective Pediatric traumatic brain injury (TBI) may affect children’s ability to perform everyday tasks (i.e., adaptive functioning). Guided by the American Association for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD) model, we explored the association between TBI and adaptive functioning at increasing levels of specificity (global, AAIDD domains, and subscales). We also examined the contributions of executive function and processing speed as mediators of TBI’s effects on adaptive functioning. Method Children (ages 8–13) with severe TBI (STBI; n=19), mild-moderate TBI (MTBI; n=50), or orthopedic injury (OI; n=60) completed measures of executive function (TEA-Ch) and processing speed (WISC-IV) an average of 2.7 years post-injury (SD = 1.2; range: 1–5.3). Parents rated children’s adaptive functioning (ABAS-II, BASC-2, CASP). Results STBI had lower global adaptive functioning (η2 = .04–.08) than the MTBI and OI groups, which typically did not differ. Deficits in the STBI group were particularly evident in the social domain, with specific deficits in social participation, leisure, and social adjustment (η2 = .06–.09). Jointly, executive function and processing speed were mediators of STBI’s effects on global adaptive functioning and in conceptual and social domains. In the STBI group, executive function mediated social functioning, and processing speed mediated social participation. Conclusions Children with STBI experience deficits in adaptive functioning, particularly in social adjustment, with less pronounced deficits in conceptual and practical skills. Executive function and processing speed may mediate the effects of STBI on adaptive functioning. Targeting adaptive functioning and associated cognitive deficits for intervention may enhance quality of life for pediatric TBI survivors. PMID:27182708

Skin strain patterns provide kinaesthetic information to the human central nervous system.

PubMed Central

Edin, B B; Johansson, N

1995-01-01

1. We investigated the contribution of skin strain-related sensory inputs to movement perception and execution in five normal volunteers. The dorsal and palmar skin of the middle phalanx and the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint were manipulated to generate specific strain patterns in the proximal part of the index finger. To mask sensations directly related to this manipulation, skin and deeper tissues were blocked distal to the mid-portion of the proximal phalanx of the index finger by local anaesthesia. 2. Subjects were asked to move their normal right index finger either to mimic any perceived movements of the anaesthetized finger or to touch the tip of the insentient finger. 3. All subjects readily reproduced actual movements induced by the experimenter at the anaesthetized PIP joint. However, all subjects also generated flexion movements when the experimenter did not induce actual movement but produced deformations in the sentient proximal skin that were similar to those observed during actual PIP joint flexion. Likewise, the subjects indicated extension movement at the PIP joint when strain patterns corresponding to extension movements were induced. 4. In contrast, when the skin strain in the proximal part of the index finger was damped by a ring applied just proximal to the PIP joint within the anaesthetized skin area, both tested subjects failed to perceive PIP movements that actually took place.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) Images Figure 2 Figure 3 PMID:7473253

Gender differences in lower extremity kinematics, kinetics and energy absorption during landing.

PubMed

Decker, Michael J; Torry, Michael R; Wyland, Douglas J; Sterett, William I; Richard Steadman, J

2003-08-01

To determine whether gender differences exist in lower extremity joint motions and energy absorption landing strategies between age and skill matched recreational athletes. Mixed factor, repeated measures design. Compared to males, females execute high demand activities in a more erect posture potentially predisposing the anterior cruciate ligament to greater loads and injury. The preferred energy absorption strategy may provide insight for this performance difference. Inverse dynamic solutions estimated lower extremity joint kinematics, kinetics and energetic profiles for twelve males and nine females performing a 60 cm drop landing. Females demonstrated a more erect landing posture and utilized greater hip and ankle joint range of motions and maximum joint angular velocities compared to males. Females also exhibited greater energy absorption and peak powers from the knee extensors and ankle plantar-flexors compared to the males. Examinations of the energy absorption contributions revealed that the knee was the primary shock absorber for both genders, whereas the ankle plantar-flexors muscles was the second largest contributor to energy absorption for the females and the hip extensors muscles for the males. Females may choose to land in a more erect posture to maximize the energy absorption from the joints most proximal to ground contact. Females may be at a greater risk to anterior cruciate ligament injury during landing due to their energy absorption strategy.

Geometric modeling for computer aided design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schwing, James L.

1993-01-01

Over the past several years, it has been the primary goal of this grant to design and implement software to be used in the conceptual design of aerospace vehicles. The work carried out under this grant was performed jointly with members of the Vehicle Analysis Branch (VAB) of NASA LaRC, Computer Sciences Corp., and Vigyan Corp. This has resulted in the development of several packages and design studies. Primary among these are the interactive geometric modeling tool, the Solid Modeling Aerospace Research Tool (smart), and the integration and execution tools provided by the Environment for Application Software Integration and Execution (EASIE). In addition, it is the purpose of the personnel of this grant to provide consultation in the areas of structural design, algorithm development, and software development and implementation, particularly in the areas of computer aided design, geometric surface representation, and parallel algorithms.

Staff support for the Health Service Executive (HSE) global health programme.

PubMed

Fitzpatrick, G; Weakliam, D; Boland, M; Fitzgerald, M

2014-03-01

The Global Health programme (GHP) within the Health Service Executive (HSE) aims to improve health in developing countries by creating partnerships between Irish and developing world healthcare institutions. To ascertain the level of interest among HSE staff for the GHP a web-based survey was conducted. 1,028 responses were received. Medical professionals, 202 (27.7%) composed the largest category of respondents. The majority, 503 (69.3%) of respondents wished to actively participate in the GHP. 237 (23.1%) staff had previous experience of working in the developing world. This survey highlighted a number of themes respondents considered important for successful partnerships including: reciprocal staff exchange, joint scientific research, the avoidance of "brain drain" and utilising the Internet to link institutions. Less than 1% (2/203) of comments expressed a negative view of the GHP.

Business as Usual: An Assessment of Donald Rumsfeld’s Transformation Vision and Transformation’s Prospects for the Future

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-06-01

capabilities: • Goal 1: Protecting critical bases and defeating chemical, biological, rad and nuclear weapons. • Goal 2: Projecting and sustaining ...bases is the supply side of the equation, whereas projecting and sustaining forces is the equation’s consumption side. The product of this equation...dominance through comprehensive knowledge, focused execution, and coordinated sustainment shared cross fully netted maritime, joint, and combined forces.123

Revisiting the Legislative Veto Issue: A Recent Amendment to the Arms Export Control Act

DTIC Science & Technology

1986-01-01

Executive functions in disregard of the fundamental principle of separation of powers . [10] In the aftermath of the presidential veto, the Congress adopted...history, the Supreme Court endorsed the Constitution’s scheme for the separation of powers . Chief Justice Warren E. Burger noted that Article I of...majority. Accordingly, the drafters of Public Law 99-247 considered that the joint resolution mechanism satisfies the " separation of powers " and the

Should Military Officers Study Policy Analysis?

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-01-01

the planning and execution of military Retired Army General Colin Powell signs books at Marine Corps Exchange aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico in...the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Colin Powell advised the students: You are about at that point in your career now . . . when you have to have a...context and how politics works in Washington. It’s not a dirty business. It’s the business that the “good guys” upstairs put in place. Anybody who says

Interferometry science center

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sargent, A. I.

2002-01-01

The Interferometry Science Center (ISC) is operated jointly by Caltech and JPL and is part of NASA's Navigator Program. The ISC has been created to facilitate the timely and successful execution of scientific investigations within the Navigator program, particularly those that rely on observations from NASA's interferometer projects. Currently, ISC is expected to provide full life cycle support for the Keck Interferometer, the Starlight mission, the Space Interferometry Mission, and the Terrestrial Planet Finder Mission. The nature and goals of ISc will be described.

Regional Joint Border Commands: A Pathway to Improving Collaboration and Effectiveness for Border Control

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-12-01

Police xii SBI Secure Border Initiative SES Senior Executive Service SSP Secretaria de Seguridad Publica TSA Transportation Security...also been involvement from the Mexican law enforcement agency, Secretaria de Seguridad Publica (SSP) on the southwest border (CBP, 2009; ICE, 2009, p. 5...The U.S. border is comprised of nearly 20,000 miles of a mix of coastline and rugged land borders with Mexico and Canada; this includes parts of

Joint Space Operations Center (JSpOC) Mission System Increment 2 (JMS Inc 2)

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-03-01

Defense Acquisition Executive DoD - Department of Defense DoDAF - DoD Architecture Framework FD - Full Deployment FDD - Full Deployment Decision FY...date has slipped from September 2016 to December 2016 and FDD has slipped from October 2016 to March 2017 since the last MAIS Annual Report...testing. This added test time, in combination with funding reductions and the US Government furlough and shutdown in FY13, caused a total FDD slip

Department of Defense Joint Technical Architecture, Version 6.0. Volume 2

DTIC Science & Technology

2003-10-03

information needs of our warfighters and the DoD enterprise. Information assurance will be integral to the GIG, and data management strategy initiatives will...IT investment strategy , and integration JTA Version 6.0, Final 3 October 2003 Vol. II–iv Executive Summaryoversight. DoDD 8100.1 establishes the GIG as... Strategy (May 9, 2003). In addition, numerous standards have been marked sunset, indicating deletion from the JTA on a future date to be determined by a

Special Operations Forces and Conventional Forces: Integration, Interoperability, and Interdependence

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-12-07

Phasing Model8 WESBROCK, HARNED, AND PLOUS 88 | FEATURES PRISM 6, no. 3 views on how to design, plan, and execute operat ions and campaigns. The...population-centric” operational environment. SOF views campaign design dif- ferently from the six-phase model in joint doc- trine depicted above.9...U.S. interests. This difference between SOF and CF views of cam- paigning can hamper integration from the start of an operation if components of the

Maternal depressive symptoms, mother-child interactions, and children's executive function.

PubMed

Gueron-Sela, Noa; Camerota, Marie; Willoughby, Michael T; Vernon-Feagans, Lynne; Cox, Martha J

2018-01-01

This study examined the independent and mediated associations between maternal depression symptoms (MDS), mother-child interaction, and child executive function (EF) in a prospective longitudinal sample of 1,037 children (50% boys) from predominantly low-income and rural communities. When children were 6, 15 and 24 months of age, mothers reported their level of depressive symptomatology. At 24 and 36 months of age, mother-child interactions during play were rated for warmth-sensitivity and harsh-intrusiveness, and dyadic joint attention and maternal language complexity were assessed from a book sharing activity. Children's EF (i.e., inhibitory control, working memory, and set shifting) were assessed at ages 36 and 48 months using a battery of six tasks. Results indicated that MDS at ages 15 and 24 months were negatively associated with children's EF at age 48 months. Additionally, harsh-intrusive mother-child interactions partially mediated this link. Although warmth-sensitivity, dyadic joint attention and maternal language complexity were all longitudinally related to EF, they did not serve as mediating mechanisms between MDS and EF. These results were obtained while controlling for multiple demographic factors, children's earlier cognitive abilities, maternal general distress and childcare experiences. Findings from this study identify 1 mechanism through which early exposure to MDS could be related to children's EF. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved).

Comparison of techniques for correction of magnification of pelvic X-rays for hip surgery planning.

PubMed

The, Bertram; Kootstra, Johan W J; Hosman, Anton H; Verdonschot, Nico; Gerritsma, Carina L E; Diercks, Ron L

2007-12-01

The aim of this study was to develop an accurate method for correction of magnification of pelvic x-rays to enhance accuracy of hip surgery planning. All investigated methods aim at estimating the anteroposterior location of the hip joint in supine position to correctly position a reference object for correction of magnification. An existing method-which is currently being used in clinical practice in our clinics-is based on estimating the position of the hip joint by palpation of the greater trochanter. It is only moderately accurate and difficult to execute reliably in clinical practice. To develop a new method, 99 patients who already had a hip implant in situ were included; this enabled determining the true location of the hip joint deducted from the magnification of the prosthesis. Physical examination was used to obtain predictor variables possibly associated with the height of the hip joint. This included a simple dynamic hip joint examination to estimate the position of the center of rotation. Prediction equations were then constructed using regression analysis. The performance of these prediction equations was compared with the performance of the existing protocol. The mean absolute error in predicting the height of the hip joint center using the old method was 20 mm (range -79 mm to +46 mm). This was 11 mm for the new method (-32 mm to +39 mm). The prediction equation is: height (mm) = 34 + 1/2 abdominal circumference (cm). The newly developed prediction equation is a superior method for predicting the height of the hip joint center for correction of magnification of pelvic x-rays. We recommend its implementation in the departments of radiology and orthopedic surgery.

Drop jumping. I. The influence of jumping technique on the biomechanics of jumping.

PubMed

Bobbert, M F; Huijing, P A; van Ingen Schenau, G J

1987-08-01

In the literature, drop jumping is advocated as an effective exercise for athletes who prepare themselves for explosive activities. When executing drop jumps, different jumping techniques can be used. In this study, the influence of jumping technique on the biomechanics of jumping is investigated. Ten subjects executed drop jumps from a height of 20 cm and counter-movement jumps. For the execution of the drop jumps, two different techniques were adopted. The first technique, referred to as bounce drop jump, required the subjects to reverse the downward velocity into an upward one as soon as possible after landing. The second technique, referred to as counter-movement drop jump, required them to do this more gradually by making a larger downward movement. During jumping, the subjects were filmed, ground reaction forces were registered, and electromyograms were recorded. The results of a biomechanical analysis show that moments and power output about knee and ankle joints reach larger values during the drop jumps than during counter-movement jumps. The largest values were attained during bounce drop jumps. Based on this finding, it was hypothesized that bounce drop jump is better suited than counter-movement drop jump for athletes who seek to improve the mechanical output of knee extensors and plantar flexors. Researchers are, therefore, advised to control jumping technique when investigating training effects of executing drop jumps.

Shaping future Naval warfare with unmanned systems, the impact across the fleet, and joint considerations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hudson, E. C.; Johnson, Gordon; Summey, Delbert C.; Portmann, Helmut H., Jr.

2004-09-01

This paper discusses a comprehensive vision for unmanned systems that will shape the future of Naval Warfare within a larger Joint Force concept, and examines the broad impact that can be anticipated across the Fleet. The vision has been articulated from a Naval perspective in NAVSEA technical report CSS/TR-01/09, Shaping the Future of Naval Warfare with Unmanned Systems, and from a Joint perspective in USJFCOM Rapid Assessment Process (RAP) Report #03-10 (Unmanned Effects (UFX): Taking the Human Out of the Loop). Here, the authors build on this foundation by reviewing the major findings and laying out the roadmap for achieving the vision and truly transforming how we fight wars. The focus is on broad impact across the Fleet - but the implications reach across all Joint forces. The term "Unmanned System" means different things to different people. Most think of vehicles that are remotely teleoperated that perform tasks under remote human control. Actually, unmanned systems are stand-alone systems that can execute missions and tasks without direct physical manned presence under varying levels of human control - from teleoperation to full autonomy. It is important to note that an unmanned system comprises a lot more than just a vehicle - it includes payloads, command and control, and communications and information processing.

Novel actuation design of a gait trainer with shadow leg approach.

PubMed

Meuleman, Jos; Meuleman, Jos; van Asseldonk, Edwin H F; van der Kooij, Herman

2013-06-01

Robotic gait training has developed since the end of the 20(th) century, yet there is much room for improvement in the design of the robots. With the conventional exoskeleton structures, donning of patients in a gait trainer usually is a cumbersome process due to the need of joint alignments and normal walking is often hindered due to obstructed arm swing. Our goal was to design a gait training robots that overcomes these limitations. We propose a novel design in which these drawbacks are reduced to a great amount. By using a parallel structure behind the patient (shadow leg) that is connected to the patient joints with rods, little alignment is needed, the area lateral to the hip is left free, and thus arm swing is not obstructed. The construction is lightweight, because the actuators are mounted on a fixed base and the transmission of power is executed with light weight rods. An end stop in the shadow leg prevents hyper extension of the patient's knee. The relationship between motor displacement and human joint rotations is nonlinear. In this paper we derive the nonlinear relationships between motors and patient joints and verify these. calculations with a measurement. The device has been built, now tests with subjects are required to assess if subjects can indeed walk normally in the robot.

Elbow joint variability for different hand positions of the round off in gymnastics.

PubMed

Farana, Roman; Irwin, Gareth; Jandacka, Daniel; Uchytil, Jaroslav; Mullineaux, David R

2015-02-01

The aim of the present study was to conduct within-gymnast analyses of biological movement variability in impact forces, elbow joint kinematics and kinetics of expert gymnasts in the execution of the round-off with different hand positions. Six international level female gymnasts performed 10 trials of the round-off from a hurdle step to a back-handspring using two hand potions: parallel and T-shape. Two force plates were used to determine ground reaction forces. Eight infrared cameras were employed to collect the kinematic data automatically. Within gymnast variability was calculated using biological coefficient of variation (BCV) discretely for ground reaction force, kinematic and kinetic measures. Variability of the continuous data was quantified using coefficient of multiple correlations (CMC). Group BCV and CMC were calculated and T-test with effect size statistics determined differences between the variability of the two techniques examined in this study. The major observation was a higher level of biological variability in the elbow joint abduction angle and adduction moment of force in the T-shaped hand position. This finding may lead to a reduced repetitive abduction stress and thus protect the elbow joint from overload. Knowledge of the differences in biological variability can inform clinicians and practitioners with effective skill selection. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Inverse Kinematics for Upper Limb Compound Movement Estimation in Exoskeleton-Assisted Rehabilitation

PubMed Central

Cortés, Camilo; de los Reyes-Guzmán, Ana; Scorza, Davide; Bertelsen, Álvaro; Carrasco, Eduardo; Gil-Agudo, Ángel; Ruiz-Salguero, Oscar; Flórez, Julián

2016-01-01

Robot-Assisted Rehabilitation (RAR) is relevant for treating patients affected by nervous system injuries (e.g., stroke and spinal cord injury). The accurate estimation of the joint angles of the patient limbs in RAR is critical to assess the patient improvement. The economical prevalent method to estimate the patient posture in Exoskeleton-based RAR is to approximate the limb joint angles with the ones of the Exoskeleton. This approximation is rough since their kinematic structures differ. Motion capture systems (MOCAPs) can improve the estimations, at the expenses of a considerable overload of the therapy setup. Alternatively, the Extended Inverse Kinematics Posture Estimation (EIKPE) computational method models the limb and Exoskeleton as differing parallel kinematic chains. EIKPE has been tested with single DOF movements of the wrist and elbow joints. This paper presents the assessment of EIKPE with elbow-shoulder compound movements (i.e., object prehension). Ground-truth for estimation assessment is obtained from an optical MOCAP (not intended for the treatment stage). The assessment shows EIKPE rendering a good numerical approximation of the actual posture during the compound movement execution, especially for the shoulder joint angles. This work opens the horizon for clinical studies with patient groups, Exoskeleton models, and movements types. PMID:27403420

The revised HSE fatigue guidance

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

Stacey, A.; Sharp, J.V.

1995-12-31

Fatigue cracking has been a principal cause of damage to North Sea structures and consequently considerable attention has been given to the development of guidance for the prediction of fatigue performance. The fatigue guidance of the Offshore Safety Division of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) was recently revised and published, following a significant offshore industry review in the period 1987 to 1990, and is based on the results of a considerable amount of research and development work on the fatigue behavior of welded tubular and plated joints. As a result of this review, the revised fatigue guidance incorporates severalmore » new clauses and recommendations. The revised recommendations apply to joint classification, basic design S-N curves for welded joints and cast or forged steel components, the thickness effect, the effects of environment and the treatment of low and high stress ranges. Additionally, a new appendix on the derivation of stress concentration factors is included. The new clauses cover high strength steels, bolts and threaded connectors, moorings, repaired joints and the use of fracture mechanics analysis. This paper presents an overview of the revisions to the fatigue guidance, the associated background technical information and aspects of the fatigue behavior of offshore structures which are considered to require further investigation. 67 refs., 7 figs., 8 tabs.« less

Executive summary of the joint position paper on renal denervation of the Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiological Society of Europe and the European Society of Hypertension.

PubMed

Moss, Jonathan G; Belli, Anna-Maria; Coca, Antonio; Lee, Michael; Mancia, Giuseppe; Peregrin, Jan H; Redon, Josep; Reekers, Jim A; Tsioufis, Costas; Vorwerk, Dierk; Schmieder, Roland E

2016-12-01

Renal denervation (RDN) was reported as a novel exciting treatment for resistant hypertension in 2009. An initial randomized trial supported its efficacy and the technique gained rapid acceptance across the globe. However, a subsequent large blinded, sham arm randomized trial conducted in the USA (to gain Food and Drug Administration approval) failed to achieve its primary efficacy end point in reducing office blood pressure at 6 months. Published in 2014 this trial received both widespread praise and criticism. RDN has effectively stopped out with clinical trials pending further evidence. This joint consensus document representing the European Society of Hypertension and the Cardiovascular and Radiological Society of Europe attempts to distill the current evidence and provide future direction and guidance.

Shared Activity Coordination

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Clement, Bradley J.; Barrett, Anthony C.

2003-01-01

Interacting agents that interleave planning and execution must reach consensus on their commitments to each other. In domains where agents have varying degrees of interaction and different constraints on communication and computation, agents will require different coordination protocols in order to efficiently reach consensus in real time. We briefly describe a largely unexplored class of real-time, distributed planning problems (inspired by interacting spacecraft missions), new challenges they pose, and a general approach to solving the problems. These problems involve self-interested agents that have infrequent communication but collaborate on joint activities. We describe a Shared Activity Coordination (SHAC) framework that provides a decentralized algorithm for negotiating the scheduling of shared activities in a dynamic environment, a soft, real-time approach to reaching consensus during execution with limited communication, and a foundation for customizing protocols for negotiating planner interactions. We apply SHAC to a realistic simulation of interacting Mars missions and illustrate the simplicity of protocol development.

Continual coordination through shared activities

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Clement, Bradley J.; Barrett, Anthony C.

2003-01-01

Interacting agents that interleave planning and execution must reach consensus on their commitments to each other. In domains where agents have varying degrees of interaction and different constraints on communication and computation, agents will require different coordination protocols in order to efficiently reach consensus in real time. We briefly describe a largely unexplored class of realtime, distributed planning problems (inspired by interacting spacecraft missions), new challenges they pose, and a general approach to solving the problems. These problems involve self-interested agents that have infrequent communication but collaborate on joint activities. We describe a Shared Activity Coordination (SHAC) framework that provides a decentralized algorithm for negotiating the scheduling of shared activities over the lifetimes of separate missions, a soft, real-time approach to reaching consensus during execution with limited communication, and a foundation for customizing protocols for negotiating planner interactions. We apply SHAC to a realistic simulation of interacting Mars missions and illustrate the simplicity of protocol development.

Argumentation for coordinating shared activities

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Clement, Bradley J.; Barrett, Anthony C.; Schaffer, Steven R.

2004-01-01

an increasing need for space missions to be able to collaboratively (and competitively) develop plans both within and across missions. In addition, interacting spacecraft that interleave onboard planning and execution must reach consensus on their commitments to each other prior to execution. In domains where missions have varying degrees of interaction and different constraints on communication and computation, the missions will require different coordination protocols in order to efficiently reach consensus with in their imposed deadlines. We describe a Shared Activity Coordination (SHAC) framework that provides a decentralized algorithm for negotiating the scheduling of shared activities over the lifetimes of multiple agents and a foundation for customizing protocols for negotiating planner interactions. We investigate variations of a few simple protocols based on argumentation and distributed constraints satisfaction techniques and evaluate their abilities to reach consistent solutions according to computation, time, and communication costs in an abstract domain where spacecraft propose joint measurements.

Joint Peru/United States report on Peru/United States cooperative energy assessment. Volume 1. Executive summary, main report and appendices

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

Not Available

1979-08-01

In 1978, the US and Peru conducted a comprehensive assessment of Peru's energy resources, needs, and uses and developed several alternative energy strategies that utilize the available resources to meet their energy requirements. This Volume I reports the findings of the assessment and contains the executive summary, the main report, and five appendices of information that support the integrated energy supply and demand analysis. The following chapters are included: The Energy Situation in Peru (economic context and background, energy resources and production, energy consumption patterns); Reference Supply and Demand Projection (approach, procedures, and assumptions; economic projections; energy demand and supplymore » projections; supply/demand integration; uncertainties); and The Development of Strategies and Options (the analysis of options; strategies; increased use of renewables, hydropower, coal; increased energy efficiency; and financial analysis of strategies).« less

Increasing Survivability on the Battlefield: Hemorrhage Control and the Joint Theater Trauma System

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-04-01

Francis Marlo Approved: ’Z?& L .; ff, .. ~~ . Date: 𔃻 4wr,’ I ..2V ZD I Executive Summary Title: Increasing Survivability on the Battlefield...Ray, I look forward to reading your most recent work, "FOB DOC". Tahirih Fusscas, Reference Librarian, E. R. Stitt Library, the National Naval...Pusateri, John B. Holcomb, Bijan S. Kheirabadi, Hasan B. Alam, Charles E. Wade, and Kathy L . Ryan, "Making Sense ofthe Preclinical Literature on

Motor functions of the basal ganglia.

PubMed

Phillips, J G; Bradshaw, J L; Iansek, R; Chiu, E

1993-01-01

A study of movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease and Huntington's disease can provide an indication of the motor functions of the basal ganglia. Basal-ganglia diseases affect voluntary movement and can cause involuntary movement. Deficits are often manifested during the coordination of fine multi-joint movements (e.g., handwriting). The disturbances of motor control (e.g. akinesia, bradykinesia) caused by basal-ganglia disorders are illustrated. Data suggest that the basal ganglia play an important role in the automatic execution of serially ordered complex movements.

Application of Remote Sensing to the Chesapeake Bay Region. Volume 1: Executive summary

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chen, W. T.; Freas, G. W., Jr.; Hickman, G. D.; Pemberton, D. A.; Wilkerson, T. D.; Adler, I.; Laurie, V. J.

1978-01-01

The proceedings are presented of a conference, jointly sponsored by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the University of Maryland. The purpose of the Conference was to assemble representatives of federal and state government agencies engaged in research on the condition and evolution of the Chesapeake Bay to compose a status report, to present current activities and future plans, and to recommend a long-range future course of policies and programs.

Costing Complex Products, Operations, and Support

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-04-30

Symposium, 10-12 May 2011, Seaside, CA. U.S. Government or Federal Rights License 14. ABSTRACT Complex products and systems (CoPS), such as large defense...Program Executive Officer SHIPS • Commander, Naval Sea Systems Command • Army Contracting Command, U.S. Army Materiel Command • Program Manager...Airborne, Maritime and Fixed Station Joint Tactical Radio System = ==================^Åèìáëáíáçå=oÉëÉ~êÅÜW=`ob^qfkd=pvkbodv=clo=fkclojba=`e^kdb=====- ii

Joint Interagency Task Force-South: The Best Known, Least Understood Interagency Success (INSS Strategic Perspectives, Number 5, June 2011)

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-06-01

CONTRACT NUMBER 5b. GRANT NUMBER 5c. PROGRAM ELEMENT NUMBER 6. AUTHOR(S) 5d. PROJECT NUMBER 5e. TASK NUMBER 5f. WORK UNIT NUMBER 7. PERFORMING ...20319 8. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION REPORT NUMBER 9. SPONSORING/MONITORING AGENCY NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES) 10. SPONSOR/MONITOR’S ACRONYM(S) 11. SPONSOR...its subcomponents execute their mission by performing research and analysis, publication, conferences, policy support, and outreach. The mission of

Rolling Toward Better Buying Power 2.0 and Portfolio Management with the Joint Center for Ground Vehicles

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-08-01

dionsendre dunt at, volenis eum iriure feu feum vel et volutat. Agnis alit aut aut volore eu faccums andrerci tat aut utat. Liqui tat ing exerilit...exercinibh et dolorti scincilis doloborer at. Ut pratis am, am, velisi bla feui eu faciduismod elessit wiscinci tem dipit vel in velFeum dolorper...Vehicles Daniel Pierson Pierson is deputy program executive officer for Land Systems (Marine Corps). hen it comes to acquisition, it’s safe to say

Final Environmental Assessment of the Joint Air-to-Surface Stand-Off Missile (JASSM) Development and Evaluation Testing, White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico

DTIC Science & Technology

2001-12-01

Explosive Test Site Program Definition and Risk Reduction Permissible Exposure Limit Program Executive Office Propellants, Explosives, and...each test vehicle is flown in the captive mode and critical systems are functioned to further remove risk of failure due to the flight environment...of other inferior missiles would require a larger number of missiles, at increased procurement costs and risk to aircraft and crew, in order to

Extraterrestrial processing and manufacturing of large space systems. Volume 3: Executive summary

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miller, R. H.; Smith, D. B. S.

1979-01-01

Facilities and equipment are defined for refining processes to commercial grade of lunar material that is delivered to a 'space manufacturing facility' in beneficiated, primary processed quality. The manufacturing facilities and the equipment for producing elements of large space systems from these materials and providing programmatic assessments of the concepts are also defined. In-space production processes of solar cells (by vapor deposition) and arrays, structures and joints, conduits, waveguides, RF equipment radiators, wire cables, converters, and others are described.

IDS conversions to for-profit status: structuring the deal.

PubMed

Jaques, D A

1998-10-01

Not-for-profit integrated delivery systems (IDSs) may convert assets to for-profit status in a variety of ways, but typically choose from three basic conversion structures: sale of assets, joint ventures, and lease or management agreements. To select the optimal conversion structure, not-for-profit IDS executives should understand the forces driving their organization's desire or need to effect such a conversion and examine the legal, business, and political implications of each option in light of the organization's particular circumstances.

The role of synergies within generative models of action execution and recognition: A computational perspective. Comment on "Grasping synergies: A motor-control approach to the mirror neuron mechanism" by A. D'Ausilio et al.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pezzulo, Giovanni; Donnarumma, Francesco; Iodice, Pierpaolo; Prevete, Roberto; Dindo, Haris

2015-03-01

Controlling the body - given its huge number of degrees of freedom - poses severe computational challenges. Mounting evidence suggests that the brain alleviates this problem by exploiting "synergies", or patterns of muscle activities (and/or movement dynamics and kinematics) that can be combined to control action, rather than controlling individual muscles of joints [1-10].

Functional Gap Analysis of the Maritime Operations Centers

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-12-01

Messaging Services TBMCS , DJC2 MI.1.3.5 Manage Suspense Control Capability Gap MI.1.3.6 Provide Component IM Cell Services Capability Gap MI.1.4 Provide...Admin Support MSRT MI.1.3.3 Manage Electronic File Plan Capability Gap MI.1.3.4 Manage Messaging Services TBMCS , DJC2 MI.1.3.5 Manage Suspense...1.5.9 Execute C4 Policies & Procedures for the Joint Operations Area GCCS-J, DCGS-N, TBMCS , CENTRIX-M EHQ.1.11 Sub Component Interagency

Exercise CAPITAL SHIELD Towards Medical Response Integration in the National Capital Region

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-01-24

provided JTF the authority to develop Interagency partnerships  CY09/10: JTF CapMed executed (12) DSCA missions with Fed/State/Local partners...incident site at Lorton Youth Detention Center, VA – admin medical support 4-5 days  FY10, JTF CapMed inserted two-day MASCAL training (onsite only...Use exercise as test-bed for structure/tools: – Joint Critical Care ATLS Team: Modification of ATLS Team w/ attached triage and evac sections

2005 Science and Technology for Chem-Bio Information Systems (S and T CBIS) volume 3 Thursday

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-10-28

radar, lidar, or sodar with computer on-board. Temperature and moisture MW radiometer with computer on- board. Portable meteorological sensors ... Wireless on the go is a way of life now – my cell phone , my PDA, my IPOD (look, I’m “Podcasting”!) and dock it when I’m at home – Same components...Team.. Other specifications will follow… Standardization of the interfaces across all CBRN sensors / devices ! JPEO-CBD 20 Joint Program Executive Office

An Examination of Brazil and the United States as Potential Partners in a Joint Supersonic Military Fighter Aircraft Codevelopment and Production Program.

DTIC Science & Technology

1986-09-01

Brazilian-American Chamber of Commerce Mr. Frank J. Devine, Executive Director Embraer, Empresa Brasileira De Aeronautica Mr. Salo Roth Vice President...Throughout this study the following assumptions have been made. First, it is assumed that the reader has a basic familiarity with aircraft. Therefore...of the 5 1 weapons acquisition process. Third, the assumption is made that most readers are familiar with U.S. procedures involving the sale of

Alert 2002 Ground Truth Missions for Arctic Shoreline Delineation and Feature Extraction

DTIC Science & Technology

2002-12-01

consid6r6e. DRDC Ottawa TM 2002-147 This page intentionally left blank. DRDC Ottawa TM 2002-147 Executive summary _ The current world vector shoreline...northern permanently inhabited settlement in the world . Alert was first settled in early 1950s as a joint Canada/US weather station. The Canadian...military station was established in 1958. During the Cold War it was Canada’s most important intercept station for monitoring the Soviet Union. There are

Engineer: The Professional Bulletin of Army Engineers. Volume 41, September-December 2011

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-12-01

and its sup- port to the joint and coalition forces that will remain in contact as far into the future as we can see, executing a unique blend of war...U.S. Army Engineer School As the regiment makes adjustments based on lessons learned during .the last 10 years, the backbone of our Army is rapidly...adjusting to support these improvements. This requires engaged NCOs at all levels. Junior NCOs should continue to provide the lessons learned to

Organization of goal-directed action at a high level of motor skill: the case of stone knapping in India.

PubMed

Biryukova, E V; Bril, B

2008-07-01

We analyzed the relationship between goal achievement and execution variability in craftsmen who have acquired the highest "ultimate" skills of stone knapping. The goal of a knapping movement is defined as the vector of the final velocity of a hammer, crucial for detaching a flake and, consequently, for the shape of the final product. The execution of the movement is defined by the kinematic pattern of the arm (i.e., by the coordination between the joint angles corresponding to the seven arm degrees of freedom). The results show that (a) the direction of final velocity is very stable for all craftsmen, whereas the amount of kinetic energy transmitted to the stone was craftsman specific and (b) the kinematic pattern of the arm was strongly individual and was a reliable sign of the level of skill--the highest level was characterized by the highest flexibility of movement kinematics. We stress the importance of conducting the experiment in natural conditions for better understanding of the relationship among the purpose (the final shape of the stone), the goal, and the execution of the movement.

From the desktop to the grid: scalable bioinformatics via workflow conversion.

PubMed

de la Garza, Luis; Veit, Johannes; Szolek, Andras; Röttig, Marc; Aiche, Stephan; Gesing, Sandra; Reinert, Knut; Kohlbacher, Oliver

2016-03-12

Reproducibility is one of the tenets of the scientific method. Scientific experiments often comprise complex data flows, selection of adequate parameters, and analysis and visualization of intermediate and end results. Breaking down the complexity of such experiments into the joint collaboration of small, repeatable, well defined tasks, each with well defined inputs, parameters, and outputs, offers the immediate benefit of identifying bottlenecks, pinpoint sections which could benefit from parallelization, among others. Workflows rest upon the notion of splitting complex work into the joint effort of several manageable tasks. There are several engines that give users the ability to design and execute workflows. Each engine was created to address certain problems of a specific community, therefore each one has its advantages and shortcomings. Furthermore, not all features of all workflow engines are royalty-free -an aspect that could potentially drive away members of the scientific community. We have developed a set of tools that enables the scientific community to benefit from workflow interoperability. We developed a platform-free structured representation of parameters, inputs, outputs of command-line tools in so-called Common Tool Descriptor documents. We have also overcome the shortcomings and combined the features of two royalty-free workflow engines with a substantial user community: the Konstanz Information Miner, an engine which we see as a formidable workflow editor, and the Grid and User Support Environment, a web-based framework able to interact with several high-performance computing resources. We have thus created a free and highly accessible way to design workflows on a desktop computer and execute them on high-performance computing resources. Our work will not only reduce time spent on designing scientific workflows, but also make executing workflows on remote high-performance computing resources more accessible to technically inexperienced users. We strongly believe that our efforts not only decrease the turnaround time to obtain scientific results but also have a positive impact on reproducibility, thus elevating the quality of obtained scientific results.

Deconstructing the power resistance relationship for squats: A joint-level analysis.

PubMed

Farris, D J; Lichtwark, G A; Brown, N A T; Cresswell, A G

2016-07-01

Generating high leg power outputs is important for executing rapid movements. Squats are commonly used to increase leg strength and power. Therefore, it is useful to understand factors affecting power output in squatting. We aimed to deconstruct the mechanisms behind why power is maximized at certain resistances in squatting. Ten male rowers (age = 20 ± 2.2 years; height = 1.82 ± 0.03 m; mass = 86 ± 11 kg) performed maximal power squats with resistances ranging from body weight to 80% of their one repetition maximum (1RM). Three-dimensional kinematics was combined with ground reaction force (GRF) data in an inverse dynamics analysis to calculate leg joint moments and powers. System center of mass (COM) velocity and power were computed from GRF data. COM power was maximized across a range of resistances from 40% to 60% 1RM. This range was identified because a trade-off in hip and knee joint powers existed across this range, with maximal knee joint power occurring at 40% 1RM and maximal hip joint power at 60% 1RM. A non-linear system force-velocity relationship was observed that dictated large reductions in COM power below 20% 1RM and above 60% 1RM. These reductions were due to constraints on the control of the movement. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Information content of slug tests for estimating hydraulic properties in realistic, high-conductivity aquifer scenarios

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cardiff, Michael; Barrash, Warren; Thoma, Michael; Malama, Bwalya

2011-06-01

SummaryA recently developed unified model for partially-penetrating slug tests in unconfined aquifers ( Malama et al., in press) provides a semi-analytical solution for aquifer response at the wellbore in the presence of inertial effects and wellbore skin, and is able to model the full range of responses from overdamped/monotonic to underdamped/oscillatory. While the model provides a unifying framework for realistically analyzing slug tests in aquifers (with the ultimate goal of determining aquifer properties such as hydraulic conductivity K and specific storage Ss), it is currently unclear whether parameters of this model can be well-identified without significant prior information and, thus, what degree of information content can be expected from such slug tests. In this paper, we examine the information content of slug tests in realistic field scenarios with respect to estimating aquifer properties, through analysis of both numerical experiments and field datasets. First, through numerical experiments using Markov Chain Monte Carlo methods for gauging parameter uncertainty and identifiability, we find that: (1) as noted by previous researchers, estimation of aquifer storage parameters using slug test data is highly unreliable and subject to significant uncertainty; (2) joint estimation of aquifer and skin parameters contributes to significant uncertainty in both unless prior knowledge is available; and (3) similarly, without prior information joint estimation of both aquifer radial and vertical conductivity may be unreliable. These results have significant implications for the types of information that must be collected prior to slug test analysis in order to obtain reliable aquifer parameter estimates. For example, plausible estimates of aquifer anisotropy ratios and bounds on wellbore skin K should be obtained, if possible, a priori. Secondly, through analysis of field data - consisting of over 2500 records from partially-penetrating slug tests in a heterogeneous, highly conductive aquifer, we present some general findings that have applicability to slug testing. In particular, we find that aquifer hydraulic conductivity estimates obtained from larger slug heights tend to be lower on average (presumably due to non-linear wellbore losses) and tend to be less variable (presumably due to averaging over larger support volumes), supporting the notion that using the smallest slug heights possible to produce measurable water level changes is an important strategy when mapping aquifer heterogeneity. Finally, we present results specific to characterization of the aquifer at the Boise Hydrogeophysical Research Site. Specifically, we note that (1) K estimates obtained using a range of different slug heights give similar results, generally within ±20%; (2) correlations between estimated K profiles with depth at closely-spaced wells suggest that K values obtained from slug tests are representative of actual aquifer heterogeneity and not overly affected by near-well media disturbance (i.e., "skin"); (3) geostatistical analysis of K values obtained indicates reasonable correlation lengths for sediments of this type; and (4) overall, K values obtained do not appear to correlate well with porosity data from previous studies.

The effects of bending speed on the lumbo-pelvic kinematics and movement pattern during forward bending in people with and without low back pain.

PubMed

Tsang, Sharon M H; Szeto, Grace P Y; Li, Linda M K; Wong, Dim C M; Yip, Millie M P; Lee, Raymond Y W

2017-04-17

Impaired lumbo-pelvic movement in people with low back pain during bending task has been reported previously. However, the regional mobility and the pattern of the lumbo-pelvic movement were found to vary across studies. The inconsistency of the findings may partly be related to variations in the speed at which the task was executed. This study examined the effects of bending speeds on the kinematics and the coordination lumbo-pelvic movement during forward bending, and to compare the performance of individuals with and without low back pain. The angular displacement, velocity and acceleration of the lumbo-pelvic movement during the repeated forward bending executed at five selected speeds were acquired using the three dimensional motion tracking system in seventeen males with low back pain and eighteen males who were asymptomatic. The regional kinematics and the degree of coordination of the lumbo-pelvic movement during bending was compared and analysed between two groups. Significantly compromised performance in velocity and acceleration of the lumbar spine and hip joint during bending task at various speed levels was shown in back pain group (p < 0.01). Both groups displayed a high degree of coordination of the lumbo-pelvic displacement during forward bending executed across the five levels of speed examined. Significant between-group difference was revealed in the coordination of the lumbo-pelvic velocity and acceleration (p < 0.01). Asymptomatic group moved with a progressively higher degree of lumbo-pelvic coordination for velocity and acceleration while the back pain group adopted a uniform lumbo-pelvic pattern across all the speed levels examined. The present findings show that bending speed imposes different levels of demand on the kinematics and pattern of the lumbo-pelvic movement. The ability to regulate the lumbo-pelvic movement pattern during the bending task that executed at various speed levels was shown only in pain-free individuals but not in those with low back pain. Individuals with low back pain moved with a stereotyped strategy at their lumbar spine and hip joints. This specific aberrant lumbo-pelvic movement pattern may have a crucial role in the maintenance of the chronicity in back pain.

Effects of inactivating individual cerebellar nuclei on the performance and retention of an operantly conditioned forelimb movement.

PubMed

Milak, M S; Shimansky, Y; Bracha, V; Bloedel, J R

1997-08-01

These experiments were designed to examine the effects of inactivating separately each of the major cerebellar nuclear regions in cats on the execution and retention of a previously learned, operantly conditioned volitional forelimb movement. The experiments test the postulates that the cerebellar nuclei, and particularly the interposed nuclei, contribute substantially to the spatial and temporal features of the interjoint coordination required to execute the task and that the engram necessary for the retention of this task is not located in any one of the cerebellar nuclei. All cats were trained to perform a task in which they were required to reach for and grasp a vertical bar at the sound of a tone and move the bar to a reward zone through a template consisting of two straight grooves in the shape of an inverted "L." After the task was learned, the effects of inactivating separately each nuclear region (the fastigial, interposed, and dentate nuclei) using muscimol microinjections were determined. Data were analyzed by quantifying several features of the movement's kinematics and by determining changes in the organization of the reaching component of the movement using an application of dimensionality analysis, an analysis that examines the correlation among the changes in joint angles and limb segment positions during the task. The retention of the previously learned task also was assessed after each injection. Injections of each nuclear region affected temporal and spatial features of the learned movement. However, the largest effects resulted from inactivating the interposed nuclei. These effects included an increased length of the reach trajectory, an accentuated deviation of the wrist trajectory from a straight line, cyclic movement of the distal extremity as the target was approached, a difficulty in grasping the bar, altered temporal features of the movement, and a highly characteristic change in the dimensionality measurements. The changes in dimensionality reflected a decreased correlation (linear interdependence) of the joint angular velocities coupled with an increased correlation among the linear velocities of markers located on the joints themselves. Related but less consistent changes in dimensionality resulted from fastigial injections. The motor sequence required to negotiate the template could be executed after the nuclear microinjections, indicating that retention of the motor sequence was not affected by the inactivation of any of the cerebellar nuclei. However, in two of the five animals, some decreases in performance were observed after dentate injection that were not characteristic of changes related to an effect on retention. These data suggest that the cerebellum plays an important role in regulating the consistent, stereotypic organization of complex goal-directed movements, including the temporal correlation among joint angle velocities. The data also indicate that the retention of the task is not dependent on any of the individual cerebellar nuclear regions. Consequently, these structures are unlikely to be critical storage sites for the engram established during the learning of this task.

Kill a brand, keep a customer.

PubMed

Kumar, Nirmalya

2003-12-01

Most brands don't make much money. Year after year, businesses generate 80% to 90% of their profits from less than 20% of their brands. Yet most companies tend to ignore loss-making brands, unaware of the hidden costs they incur. That's because executives believe it's easy to erase a brand; they have only to stop investing in it, they assume, and it will die a natural death. But they're wrong. When companies drop brands clumsily, they antagonize loyal customers: Research shows that seven times out of eight, when firms merge two brands, the market share of the new brand never reaches the combined share of the two original ones. It doesn't have to be that way. Smart companies use a four-step process to kill brands methodically. First, CEOs make the case for rationalization by getting groups of senior executives to conduct joint audits of the brand portfolio. These audits make the need to prune brands apparent throughout the organization. In the next stage, executives need to decide how many brands will be retained, which they do either by setting broad parameters that all brands must meet or by identifying the brands they need in order to cater to all the customer segments in their markets. Third, executives must dispose of the brands they've decided to drop, deciding in each case whether it is appropriate to merge, sell, milk, or just eliminate the brand outright. Finally, it's critical that executives invest the resources they've freed to grow the brands they've retained. Done right, dropping brands will result in a company poised for new growth from the source where it's likely to be found--its profitable brands.

An equilibrium-point model for fast, single-joint movement: I. Emergence of strategy-dependent EMG patterns.

PubMed

Latash, M L; Gottlieb, G L

1991-09-01

We describe a model for the regulation of fast, single-joint movements, based on the equilibrium-point hypothesis. Limb movement follows constant rate shifts of independently regulated neuromuscular variables. The independently regulated variables are tentatively identified as thresholds of a length sensitive reflex for each of the participating muscles. We use the model to predict EMG patterns associated with changes in the conditions of movement execution, specifically, changes in movement times, velocities, amplitudes, and moments of limb inertia. The approach provides a theoretical neural framework for the dual-strategy hypothesis, which considers certain movements to be results of one of two basic, speed-sensitive or speed-insensitive strategies. This model is advanced as an alternative to pattern-imposing models based on explicit regulation of timing and amplitudes of signals that are explicitly manifest in the EMG patterns.

Toward RADSCAT measurements over the sea and their interpretation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Claassen, J. P.; Fung, A. K.; Wu, S. T.; Chan, H. L.

1973-01-01

Investigations into several areas which are essential to the execution and interpretation of suborbital observations by composite radiometer - scatterometer sensor (RADSCAT) are reported. Experiments and theory were developed to demonstrate the remote anemometric capability of the sensor over the sea through various weather conditions. It is shown that weather situations found in extra tropical cyclones are useful for demonstrating the all weather capability of the composite sensor. The large scale fluctuations of the wind over the sea dictate the observational coverage required to correlate measurements with the mean surface wind speed. Various theoretical investigations were performed to establish a premise for the joint interpretation of the experiment data. The effects of clouds and rains on downward radiometric observations over the sea were computed. A method of predicting atmospheric attenuation from joint observations is developed. In other theoretical efforts, the emission and scattering characteristics of the sea were derived. Composite surface theories with coherent and noncoherent assumptions were employed.

Evaluation of posture and pain in persons with benign joint hypermobility syndrome.

PubMed

Booshanam, Divya S; Cherian, Binu; Joseph, Charles Premkumar A R; Mathew, John; Thomas, Raji

2011-12-01

The objective of the present study is to compare and quantify the postural differences and joint pain distribution between subjects with benign joint hypermobility syndrome (BJHS) and the normal population. This observational, non-randomized, and controlled study was conducted at Rheumatology and Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Medicine Departments of a tertiary care teaching hospital. Subjects comprise 35 persons with diagnosis of BJHS, and the control group was matched for age and sex. Reedco's Posture score (RPS) and visual analogue scale (VAS) were the outcome measures. The subjects were assessed for pain in ten major joints and rated on a VAS. A standard posture assessment was conducted using the Reedco's Posture score. The same procedure was executed for an age- and sex-matched control group. Mean RPS for the BJHS group was 55.29 ± 8.15 and for the normal group it was 67 ± 11.94. The most common postural deviances in subjects with BJHS were identified in the following areas of head, hip (Sagittal plane), upper back, trunk, and lower back (Coronal plane). Intensity of pain was found to be more in BJHS persons than that of the normal persons, and the knee joints were the most affected. The present study compared and quantified the postural abnormalities and the pain in BJHS persons. The need for postural re-education and specific assessment and training for the most affected joints are discussed. There is a significant difference in posture between subjects with BJHS and the normal population. BJHS persons need special attention to their posture re-education during physiotherapy sessions to reduce long-term detrimental effects on the musculoskeletal system.

Effect of local magnetic field disturbances on inertial measurement units accuracy.

PubMed

Robert-Lachaine, Xavier; Mecheri, Hakim; Larue, Christian; Plamondon, André

2017-09-01

Inertial measurement units (IMUs), a practical motion analysis technology for field acquisition, have magnetometers to improve segment orientation estimation. However, sensitivity to magnetic disturbances can affect their accuracy. The objective of this study was to determine the joint angles accuracy of IMUs under different timing of magnetic disturbances of various durations and to evaluate a few correction methods. Kinematics from 12 individuals were obtained simultaneously with an Xsens system where an Optotrak cluster acting as the reference system was affixed to each IMU. A handling task was executed under normal laboratory conditions and imposed magnetic disturbances. Joint angle RMSE was used to conduct a three-way repeated measures analysis of variance in order to contrast the following disturbance factors: duration (0, 30, 60, 120 and 240 s), timing (during the disturbance, directly after it and a 30-second delay after it) and axis (X, Y and Z). The highest joint angle RMSE was observed on rotations about the Y longitudinal axis and during the longer disturbances. It stayed high directly after a disturbance, but returned close to baseline after a 30-second delay. When magnetic disturbances are experienced, waiting 30 s in a normal condition is recommended as a way to restore the IMUs' initial accuracy. The correction methods performed modestly or poorly in the reduction of joint angle RMSE. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

[Development of Patient Transfer Techniques based on Postural-stability Principles for the Care Helpers in Nursing Homes and Evaluation of Effectiveness].

PubMed

Ma, Ryewon; Jung, Dukyoo

2016-02-01

This study was done to develop a postural-stability patient transfer technique for care helpers in nursing homes and to evaluate its effectiveness. Four types of patient transfer techniques (Lifting towards the head board of the bed, turning to the lateral position, sitting upright on the bed, transferring from wheel chair to bed) were practiced in accordance with the following three methods; Care helpers habitually used transfer methods (Method 1), patient transfer methods according to care helper standard textbooks (Method 2), and a method developed by the author ensuring postural-stability (Method 3). The care helpers' muscle activity and four joint angles were measured. The collected data were analyzed using the program SPSS Statistic 21.0. To differentiate the muscle activity and joint angle, the Friedman test was executed and the post-hoc analysis was conducted using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank test. Muscle activity was significantly lower during Method 3 compared to Methods 1 and 2. In addition, the joint angle was significantly lower for the knee and shoulder joint angle while performing Method 3 compared to Methods 1 and 2. Findings indicate that using postural-stability patient transfer techniques can contribute to the prevention of musculoskeletal disease which care helpers suffer from due to physically demanding patient care in nursing homes.

Biomechanics of Step Initiation After Balance Recovery With Implications for Humanoid Robot Locomotion.

PubMed

Miller Buffinton, Christine; Buffinton, Elise M; Bieryla, Kathleen A; Pratt, Jerry E

2016-03-01

Balance-recovery stepping is often necessary for both a human and humanoid robot to avoid a fall by taking a single step or multiple steps after an external perturbation. The determination of where to step to come to a complete stop has been studied, but little is known about the strategy for initiation of forward motion from the static position following such a step. The goal of this study was to examine the human strategy for stepping by moving the back foot forward from a static, double-support position, comparing parameters from normal step length (SL) to those from increasing SLs to the point of step failure, to provide inspiration for a humanoid control strategy. Healthy young adults instrumented with joint reflective markers executed a prescribed-length step from rest while marker positions and ground reaction forces (GRFs) were measured. The participants were scaled to the Gait2354 model in opensim software to calculate body kinematic and joint kinetic parameters, with further post-processing in matlab. With increasing SL, participants reduced both static and push-off back-foot GRF. Body center of mass (CoM) lowered and moved forward, with additional lowering at the longer steps, and followed a path centered within the initial base of support (BoS). Step execution was successful if participants gained enough forward momentum at toe-off to move the instantaneous capture point (ICP) to within the BoS defined by the final position of both feet on the front force plate. All lower extremity joint torques increased with SL except ankle joint. Front knee work increased dramatically with SL, accompanied by decrease in back-ankle work. As SL increased, the human strategy changed, with participants shifting their CoM forward and downward before toe-off, thus gaining forward momentum, while using less propulsive work from the back ankle and engaging the front knee to straighten the body. The results have significance for human motion, suggesting the upper limit of the SL that can be completed with back-ankle push-off before additional knee flexion and torque is needed. For biped control, the results support stability based on capture-point dynamics and suggest strategy for center-of-mass trajectory and distribution of ground force reactions that can be compared with robot controllers for initiation of gait after recovery steps.

Prejudiced interactions: implicit racial bias reduces predictive simulation during joint action with an out-group avatar.

PubMed

Sacheli, Lucia Maria; Christensen, Andrea; Giese, Martin A; Taubert, Nick; Pavone, Enea Francesco; Aglioti, Salvatore Maria; Candidi, Matteo

2015-02-17

During social interactions people automatically apply stereotypes in order to rapidly categorize others. Racial differences are among the most powerful cues that drive these categorizations and modulate our emotional and cognitive reactivity to others. We investigated whether implicit racial bias may also shape hand kinematics during the execution of realistic joint actions with virtual in- and out-group partners. Caucasian participants were required to perform synchronous imitative or complementary reach-to-grasp movements with avatars that had different skin color (white and black) but showed identical action kinematics. Results demonstrate that stronger visuo-motor interference (indexed here as hand kinematics differences between complementary and imitative actions) emerged: i) when participants were required to predict the partner's action goal in order to on-line adapt their own movements accordingly; ii) during interactions with the in-group partner, indicating the partner's racial membership modulates interactive behaviors. Importantly, the in-group/out-group effect positively correlated with the implicit racial bias of each participant. Thus visuo-motor interference during joint action, likely reflecting predictive embodied simulation of the partner's movements, is affected by cultural inter-individual differences.

The National Survey of Psychiatric Morbidity among prisoners and the future of prison healthcare.

PubMed

Coid, Jeremy; Bebbington, Paul; Jenkins, Rachel; Brugha, Traolach; Lewis, Glyn; Farrell, Michael; Singleton, Nicola

2002-07-01

It has long been known that psychiatric disorders are highly prevalent among prisoners (Coid, 1984; Gunn et al., 1991; Maden et al., 1995; Joukamaa, 1995; Bland et al., 1998; Lamb and Weinberger, 1998). However, the Survey of Psychiatric Morbidity Among Prisoners in England and Wales (Singleton et al., 1998) represents a considerable advance on earlier surveys. By using the same standardized psychiatric assessment procedures, and similar questions on medication, service use and social functioning, its findings can be compared with previous national surveys of adults living in private households (Meltzer et al., 1995), residents in institutions (Meltzer et al., 1996), homeless persons (Gill et al., 1996), and with the forthcoming household survey in England, Wales and Scotland. It should also inform the future organisation of healthcare for prisoners, following recent recommendations from a joint Home Office/Department of Health Working Party that Health Authorities must work with prisons in their catchment areas to carry out joint health needs assessments, agree prison healthcare improvement strategies and jointly plan and commission services (HM Prison Service and NHS Executive 1999). The ultimate test of the survey will be whether it provides a benchmark to evaluate the future effectiveness of the new policy changes.

Fused smart sensor network for multi-axis forward kinematics estimation in industrial robots.

PubMed

Rodriguez-Donate, Carlos; Osornio-Rios, Roque Alfredo; Rivera-Guillen, Jesus Rooney; Romero-Troncoso, Rene de Jesus

2011-01-01

Flexible manipulator robots have a wide industrial application. Robot performance requires sensing its position and orientation adequately, known as forward kinematics. Commercially available, motion controllers use high-resolution optical encoders to sense the position of each joint which cannot detect some mechanical deformations that decrease the accuracy of the robot position and orientation. To overcome those problems, several sensor fusion methods have been proposed but at expenses of high-computational load, which avoids the online measurement of the joint's angular position and the online forward kinematics estimation. The contribution of this work is to propose a fused smart sensor network to estimate the forward kinematics of an industrial robot. The developed smart processor uses Kalman filters to filter and to fuse the information of the sensor network. Two primary sensors are used: an optical encoder, and a 3-axis accelerometer. In order to obtain the position and orientation of each joint online a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) is used in the hardware implementation taking advantage of the parallel computation capabilities and reconfigurability of this device. With the aim of evaluating the smart sensor network performance, three real-operation-oriented paths are executed and monitored in a 6-degree of freedom robot.

Aquarius SAC-D Post-Launch Briefing

NASA Image and Video Library

2011-06-10

Conrado Varotto, CONAE Executive and Technical Director, Buenos Aires, talks during the Aquarius/SAC-D post-launch press conference on Friday, June 10, 2011 at the NASA Resident Office, Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. The joint U.S./Argentinian Aquarius/Satélite de Aplicaciones Científicas (SAC)-D mission, launched earlier on Friday June 10, will map the salinity at the ocean surface, information critical to improving our understanding of two major components of Earth's climate system: the water cycle and ocean circulation. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

Aquarius SAC-D Post-Launch Briefing

NASA Image and Video Library

2011-06-10

Conrado Varotto, CONAE Executive and Technical Director, Buenos Aires, looks on as other panelest speak during the Aquarius/SAC-D post-launch press conference on Friday, June 10, 2011 at the NASA Resident Office, Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. The joint U.S./Argentinian Aquarius/Satélite de Aplicaciones Científicas (SAC)-D mission, launched earlier on Friday June 10, will map the salinity at the ocean surface, information critical to improving our understanding of two major components of Earth's climate system: the water cycle and ocean circulation. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

Environmental Impact Statement for the Modernization and Enhancement of Ranges, Airspace, and Training Areas in the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex in Alaska. Volume 1 - Executive Summary, Chapters 1 through 10

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-06-01

to short-term behavioral responses and no effects that would be measurable at a population level have been documented. Fish in their native...the sustainable multipurpose use of natural resources (hunting, fishing , trapping, and non- consumptive uses) on military lands, subject to safety...support fish populations year-round, as they freeze in winter or when iced over and lack sufficient dissolved oxygen for fish to survive (USARAK 2004-1

RBCC Mixing Studies: Ejector Ramjet Design Optimization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1999-01-01

The research project reported herein extended over a period from October 1997 through August 1999. The research resulted in three technical papers presented at the AIAA/SAE/ASME/ASEE 35th Joint Propulsion Conference in Los Angeles in July 1999. These three papers are attached to this Executive Summary to constitute the final report. Objective: The objective of this research was to determine the mixing characteristics between the primary rocket jets and the turbine exhaust stream in a simulated Rocket Based Combined Cycle propulsion concept operating in the air augmented rocket mode.

KSC-98pc1881

NASA Image and Video Library

1998-12-18

Donald McMonagle (left), manager, Launch Integration, speaks to federal and state elected officials during the ground breaking ceremony for a multi-purpose hangar, phase one of the Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) Support Complex to be built near the Shuttle Landing Facility. At right are Center Director Roy Bridges and Executive Director of the Spaceport Florida Authority (SFA) Ed O'Connor. The new complex is jointly funded by SFA, NASA's Space Shuttle Program and Kennedy Space Center. It is intended to support the Space Shuttle and other RLV land X-vehicle systems. Completion is expected by the year 2000

Smartphone versus knee ligament arthrometer when size does not matter.

PubMed

Ferretti, Andrea; Andrea, Ferretti; Valeo, Luigi; Luigi, Valeo; Mazza, Daniele; Daniele, Mazza; Muliere, Luca; Luca, Muliere; Iorio, Paolo; Paolo, Iorio; Giovannetti, Giovanni; Giovanni, Giovannetti; Conteduca, Fabio; Fabio, Conteduca; Iorio, Raffaele; Raffaele, Iorio

2014-10-01

The use of available mechanical methods to measure anterior tibial translation (ATT) in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)-deficient knees are limited by size and costs. This study evaluated the performance of a portable device based on a downloadable electronic smartphone application to measure ATT in ACL-deficient knees. A specific smartphone application (SmartJoint) was developed for this purpose. Two independent observers nonsequentially measured the amount of ATT during execution of a maximum manual Lachman test in 35 patients with an ACL-deficient knee using KT 1000 and SmartJoint on both involved and uninvolved knees. As each examiner performed the test three times on each knee, a total of 840 measurements were collected. Statistical analysis compared intertest, interobserver and intra-observer reliability using the interclass correlation coefficient (ICC). An ICC > 0.75 indicates excellent reproducibility among measurements. Mean amount of ATT on uninvolved knees was 6.1 mm [standard deviation (SD = 2)] with the KT 1000 and 6.4 mm (SD = 2) with SmartJoint. Mean side-to-side difference was 8.1 mm. (SD = 4) with KT 1000 and 8.3 mm (SD = 3) with SmartJoint. Intertest reliability between the two methods yielded an ICC 0.797 [95 % confidence interval (CI) 0.717-0.857] for the uninvolved knee and of 0.987 (CI 0.981-0.991) for the involved knee. Interobserver ICC for SmartJoint and KT 1000 was 0.957 (CI 0.927-0.976) for the uninvolved knee and 0.992 (CI 0.986-0.996) for the involved knee and 0.973 (CI 0.954-0.985) for the uninvolved knee and 0.989 (CI 0.981-0.994) for involved knee, respectively. The performance of SmartJoint is comparable and highly correlated with measurements obtained from KT 1000. SmartJoint may provide a truly portable, noninvasive, accurate, reliable, inexpensive and widely accessible method to characterize ATT in ACL-deficient knee.

Redesigning a joint replacement program using Lean Six Sigma in a Veterans Affairs hospital.

PubMed

Gayed, Benjamin; Black, Stephen; Daggy, Joanne; Munshi, Imtiaz A

2013-11-01

In April 2009, an analysis of joint replacement surgical procedures at the Richard L. Roudebush Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Indianapolis, Indiana, revealed that total hip and knee replacements incurred $1.4 million in non-Veterans Affairs (VA) care costs with an average length of stay of 6.1 days during fiscal year 2008. The Joint Replacement Program system redesign project was initiated following the Vision-Analysis-Team-Aim-Map-Measure-Change-Sustain (VA-TAMMCS) model to increase efficiency, decrease length of stay, and reduce non-VA care costs. To determine the effectiveness of Lean Six Sigma process improvement methods applied in a VA hospital. Perioperative processes for patients undergoing total joint replacement were redesigned following the VA-TAMMCS model--the VA's official, branded method of Lean Six Sigma process improvement. A multidisciplinary team including the orthopedic surgeons, frontline staff, and executive management identified waste in the current processes and initiated changes to reduce waste and increase efficiency. Data collection included a 1-year baseline period and a 20-month sustainment period. The primary endpoint was length of stay; a secondary analysis considered non-VA care cost reductions. Length of stay decreased 36% overall, decreasing from 5.3 days during the preproject period to 3.4 days during the 20-month sustainment period (P < .001). Non-VA care was completely eliminated for patients undergoing total hip and knee replacement at the Richard L. Roudebush Veterans Affairs Medical Center, producing an estimated return on investment of $1 million annually when compared with baseline cost and volumes. In addition, the volume of total joint replacements at this center increased during the data collection period. The success of the Joint Replacement Program demonstrates that VA-TAMMCS is an effective tool for Lean and Six Sigma process improvement initiatives in a surgical practice, producing a 36% sustained reduction in length of stay and completely eliminating non-VA care for total hip and knee replacements while increasing total joint replacement volume at this medical center.

AUTOMATED GEOSPATIAL WATERSHED ASSESSMENT ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

The Automated Geospatial Watershed Assessment tool (AGWA) is a GIS interface jointly developed by the USDA Agricultural Research Service, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the University of Arizona, and the University of Wyoming to automate the parameterization and execution of the Soil Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) and KINEmatic Runoff and EROSion (KINEROS2) hydrologic models. The application of these two models allows AGWA to conduct hydrologic modeling and watershed assessments at multiple temporal and spatial scales. AGWA’s current outputs are runoff (volumes and peaks) and sediment yield, plus nitrogen and phosphorus with the SWAT model. AGWA uses commonly available GIS data layers to fully parameterize, execute, and visualize results from both models. Through an intuitive interface the user selects an outlet from which AGWA delineates and discretizes the watershed using a Digital Elevation Model (DEM) based on the individual model requirements. The watershed model elements are then intersected with soils and land cover data layers to derive the requisite model input parameters. The chosen model is then executed, and the results are imported back into AGWA for visualization. This allows managers to identify potential problem areas where additional monitoring can be undertaken or mitigation activities can be focused. AGWA also has tools to apply an array of best management practices. There are currently two versions of AGWA available; AGWA 1.5 for

The RUDY study: using digital technologies to enable a research partnership

PubMed Central

Teare, Harriet J A; Hogg, Joanna; Kaye, Jane; Luqmani, Raashid; Rush, Elaine; Turner, Alison; Watts, Laura; Williams, Melanie; Javaid, M Kassim

2017-01-01

Patients have extensive experience of their disease that can enhance the design and execution of research leading to significant innovations and efficiencies in the research process. The research community on the whole have been slow to adopt practices that enable patients to become active partners in research. Digital technologies are providing the means to do this more easily and so are increasingly being used to interact with patients and involve them in the design and execution of research. The RUDY (Rare UK Diseases of bone, joints and blood vessels) study’s pioneering approach applies a custom-developed electronic platform where patients can contribute information over time about their disease experience, lifestyle and clinical history. This is combined with a state-of-the-art Dynamic Consent model and a commitment to patient-driven research, to further our understanding of rare diseases. This paper describes the RUDY study and the benefits that have been gained from adopting this partnership approach to research. PMID:28443622

The cognitive bases of the development of past and future episodic cognition in preschoolers.

PubMed

Ünal, Gülten; Hohenberger, Annette

2017-10-01

The aim of this study was to use a minimalist framework to examine the joint development of past and future episodic cognition and their underlying cognitive abilities in 3- to 5-year-old Turkish preschoolers. Participants engaged in two main tasks, a what-where-when (www) task to measure episodic memory and a future prediction task to measure episodic future thinking. Three additional tasks were used for predicting children's performance in the two main tasks: a temporal language task, an executive function task, and a spatial working memory task. Results indicated that past and future episodic tasks were significantly correlated with each other even after controlling for age. Hierarchical multiple regressions showed that, after controlling for age, the www task was predicted by executive functions, possibly supporting binding of episodic information and by linguistic abilities. The future prediction task was predicted by linguistic abilities alone, underlining the importance of language for episodic past and future thinking. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The joint effect of bilingualism and ADHD on executive functions.

PubMed

Mor, Billy; Yitzhaki-Amsalem, Sarin; Prior, Anat

2015-06-01

The current study investigated the combined effect of ADHD, previously associated with executive function (EF) deficits, and of bilingualism, previously associated with EF enhancement, on EF. Eighty University students, Hebrew monolinguals and Russian Hebrew bilinguals, with and without ADHD participated. Inhibition tasks were a Numeric Stroop task and a Simon arrows task. Shifting tasks were the Trail Making Test (TMT) and a task-switching paradigm. Participants with ADHD performed worse than controls, but we did not find a bilingual advantage in EF. The negative impact of ADHD was more pronounced for bilinguals than for monolinguals, but only in interference suppression tasks. Bilingual participants with ADHD had the lowest performance. Bilingualism might prove to be an added burden for adults with ADHD, leading to reduced EF abilities. Alternatively, the current findings might be ascribed to over- or under-diagnosis of ADHD due to cultural differences between groups. These issues should be pursued in future research. © 2014 SAGE Publications.

The development of consistency and flexibility in manual pointing during middle childhood.

PubMed

Golenia, Laura; Schoemaker, Marina M; Otten, Egbert; Tuitert, Inge; Bongers, Raoul M

2018-05-21

Goal-directed actions become truly functional and skilled when they are consistent yet flexible. In manual pointing, end-effector consistency is characterized by the end position of the index fingertip, whereas flexibility in movement execution is captured by the use of abundant arm-joint configurations not affecting the index finger end position. Because adults have been shown to exploit their system's flexibility in challenging conditions, we wondered whether during middle childhood children are already able to exploit motor flexibility when demanded by the situation. We had children aged 5-10 years and adults perform pointing movements in a nonchallenging and challenging condition. Results showed that end-effector errors and flexibility in movement execution decreased with age. Importantly, only the 9-10-year-olds and adults showed increased flexibility in the challenging condition. Thus, while consistency increases and flexibility decreases during mid-childhood development, from the age of nine children appear able to employ more flexibility with increasing task demands. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

A labor/leisure tradeoff in cognitive control.

PubMed

Kool, Wouter; Botvinick, Matthew

2014-02-01

Daily life frequently offers a choice between activities that are profitable but mentally demanding (cognitive labor) and activities that are undemanding but also unproductive (cognitive leisure). Although such decisions are often implicit, they help determine academic performance, career trajectories, and even health outcomes. Previous research has shed light both on the executive control functions that ultimately define cognitive labor and on a "default mode" of brain function that accompanies cognitive leisure. However, little is known about how labor/leisure decisions are actually made. Here, we identify a central principle guiding such decisions. Results from 3 economic-choice experiments indicate that the motivation underlying cognitive labor/leisure decision making is to strike an optimal balance between income and leisure, as given by a joint utility function. The results reported establish a new connection between microeconomics and research on executive function. They also suggest a new interpretation of so-called ego-depletion effects and a potential new approach to such phenomena as mind wandering and self-control failure.

Are you approaching me? Motor execution influences perceived action orientation.

PubMed

Manera, Valeria; Cavallo, Andrea; Chiavarino, Claudia; Schouten, Ben; Verfaillie, Karl; Becchio, Cristina

2012-01-01

Human observers are especially sensitive to the actions of conspecifics that match their own actions. This has been proposed to be critical for social interaction, providing the basis for empathy and joint action. However, the precise relation between observed and executed actions is still poorly understood. Do ongoing actions change the way observers perceive others' actions? To pursue this question, we exploited the bistability of depth-ambiguous point-light walkers, which can be perceived as facing towards the viewer or as facing away from the viewer. We demonstrate that point-light walkers are perceived more often as facing the viewer when the observer is walking on a treadmill compared to when the observer is performing an action that does not match the observed behavior (e.g., cycling). These findings suggest that motor processes influence the perceived orientation of observed actions: Acting observers tend to perceive similar actions by conspecifics as oriented towards themselves. We discuss these results in light of the possible mechanisms subtending action-induced modulation of perception.

A labor/leisure tradeoff in cognitive control

PubMed Central

Kool, Wouter; Botvinick, Matthew

2013-01-01

Daily life frequently offers a choice between activities that are profitable but mentally demanding (cognitive labor) and activities that are undemanding but also unproductive (cognitive leisure). Although such decisions are often implicit, they help determine academic performance, career trajectories, and even health outcomes. Previous research has shed light both on the executive control functions that ultimately define cognitive labor and a ‘default mode’ of brain function that accompanies cognitive leisure. However, little is known about how labor/leisure decisions are actually made. Here, we identify a central principle guiding such decisions. Results from three economic-choice experiments indicate that the motivation underlying cognitive labor/leisure decision-making is to strike an optimal balance between income and leisure, as given by a joint utility function. The results reported establish a new connection between microeconomics and research on executive function. They also suggest a new interpretation of so-called ego-depletion effects, and a potential new approach to such phenomena as mind-wandering and self-control failure. PMID:23230991

Kinematic evaluation of the classical ballet step "plié".

PubMed

Gontijo, Kaanda Nabilla Souza; Candotti, Cláudia Tarragô; Feijó, Grace Dos Santos; Ribeiro, Lais Paixão; Loss, Jefferson Fagundes

2015-06-01

Lack of alignment between the lowerlimb structures, such as the hips, knees, and longitudinal arches of the feet, has been described as an important predisposing factor in musculoskeletal injury among classical ballet dancers. However, no studies were found that analyzed basic ballet movements with quantification of objective criteria of the movements. The purposes of this study were: 1. to establish a methodology to quantify, using kinematic evaluation, the technical criteria that guide the correct execution of all phases of the plié (simultaneous flexion of the hips, knees, and ankle joints); and 2. to explore whether experienced ballet dancers respect those criteria when performing the plié. The technical criteria considered were the following: 1. midfoot stability; 2. pelvic positioning in a neutral alignment; 3. pelvic stability, represented by pelvic angle variation; and 4. vertical alignment of the knee joint with the second toe of the ipsilateral foot. Twenty dancers from Porto Alegre, Brazil, with 18 years of uninterrupted ballet training, were filmed while performing plié using four synchronized cameras. The descriptive statistical analysis involved calculating the median, minimum, and maximum of each of the technical criteria. Results showed that for criterion 1, the 20 dancers showed great stabilization of the midfoot; for criteria 2 and 3, 18 dancers displayed pelvic instability tending toward retroversion throughout execution of the plié; and for criterion 4, 13 dancers presented with medial misalignment of the knees at all phases of the plié. Using these criteria, it was possible to characterize the plié from a kinematic point of view.

Rural water supply and related services in developing countries — Comparative analysis of several approaches

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bajard, Y.; Draper, M.; Viens, P.

1981-05-01

The proposed paper deals with a comparative analysis of several approaches possible and actually used for a joint action of local institutions and foreign aid in the field of water supply and related services such as sanitation to villages and small rural agglomerations (market towns, etc.) in developing countries. This comparative analysis is based on examples of actual programmes in this field. The authors have participated in most of the programmes selected as examples, at various levels and in various capacities, from conception to design, implementation and/or evaluation (i.e. rural development programmes in Ivory Coast, Ghana (upper region), Benin and Ethiopia. The authors were not involved in other examples such as water supply and/or sanitation to small urban centres in Benin, Ivory Coast, etc. They have, however, witnessed them directly and have obtained, therefore, first-hand information on their organization, execution and results. Several typical examples of actual projects are briefly defined and characterized. The paper undertakes, then, to compare, in a clinical fashion, the advantages and drawbacks of the approaches taken in the various examples presented. The paper finally proposes a recommendation for a realistic approach to joint action between local/domestic and foreign financing/assistance agencies and executing bodies (consultants, contractors) in the field of rural water supply, sanitation, and more generally, health improvement. The definition of this line of approach is made in terms of logical framework, i.e. goals, purposes, outputs and inputs at the various stages of the project, up to actual evaluation of execution and impact if possible; description of practical indicators of the two types of evaluation. A particular attention is given to the problems of technological choices, in view of the constraints imposed by the natural environment, by the human and social patterns; in view also of the institutions and the economy. Another point of importance taken into consideration by the paper is the problem of information, education, and support to users for the introduction, implementation, operation and maintenance of technical developments at village level. Conclusions are drawn as to the relative advantages of this approach over the "classical" approach and its replicability.

Moving Just Like You: Motor Interference Depends on Similar Motility of Agent and Observer

PubMed Central

Kupferberg, Aleksandra; Huber, Markus; Helfer, Bartosz; Lenz, Claus; Knoll, Alois; Glasauer, Stefan

2012-01-01

Recent findings in neuroscience suggest an overlap between brain regions involved in the execution of movement and perception of another’s movement. This so-called “action-perception coupling” is supposed to serve our ability to automatically infer the goals and intentions of others by internal simulation of their actions. A consequence of this coupling is motor interference (MI), the effect of movement observation on the trajectory of one’s own movement. Previous studies emphasized that various features of the observed agent determine the degree of MI, but could not clarify how human-like an agent has to be for its movements to elicit MI and, more importantly, what ‘human-like’ means in the context of MI. Thus, we investigated in several experiments how different aspects of appearance and motility of the observed agent influence motor interference (MI). Participants performed arm movements in horizontal and vertical directions while observing videos of a human, a humanoid robot, or an industrial robot arm with either artificial (industrial) or human-like joint configurations. Our results show that, given a human-like joint configuration, MI was elicited by observing arm movements of both humanoid and industrial robots. However, if the joint configuration of the robot did not resemble that of the human arm, MI could longer be demonstrated. Our findings present evidence for the importance of human-like joint configuration rather than other human-like features for perception-action coupling when observing inanimate agents. PMID:22761853

Governance of partnership between health and social services: the experience in Somerset.

PubMed

Peck, Edward; Gulliver, Pauline; Towell, David

2002-09-01

As one part of a larger study of the integration of mental health and social care, the present paper explores the role of the Joint Commissioning Board in the governance arrangements for health and social partnership in Somerset, UK. A short review of the literature on joint planning and joint commissioning revealed that such partnership has proved problematic, and that the role of non-executive directors and councillors is usually overlooked. Furthermore, the research on corporate boards suggests that their performance does not match the prescriptions made for them. Following a description of the methodology of the study, the present paper reports the findings of the activity of the Joint Commissioning Board from three data sources: (1) observation of meetings; (2) analysis of documentation; and (3) participant interviews. All three sources support the view, put forward in the Discussion section, that the Board does not play a proactive role in the setting and monitoring of policy and priorities. Nonetheless, it is argued, the Board plays a central and constructive role in the governance of partnership: as the symbol of interagency partnership; as the vehicle for sustaining commitment to mental health; and as the method of bringing additional elements of public accountability to the commissioning and providing of health and social care. Locating this ritual function of the Board within the broader sociological literature, the Discussion section goes on to suggest the implications both for the future of governance of partnership and for further research in this area.

An Industrial Perspective of CAM/ROB Fuzzy Integrated Postprocessing Implementation for Redundant Robotic Workcells Applicability for Big Volume Prototyping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Andrés, J.; Gracia, L.; Tornero, J.; García, J. A.; González, F.

2009-11-01

The implementation of a postprocessor for the NX™ platform (Siemens Corp.) is described in this paper. It is focused on a milling redundant robotic milling workcell consisting of one KUKA KR 15/2 manipulator (6 rotary joints, KRC2 controller) mounted on a linear axis and synchronized with a rotary table (i.e., two additional joints). For carrying out a milling task, a choice among a set of possible configurations is required, taking into account the ability to avoid singular configurations by using both additional joints. Usually, experience and knowledge of the workman allow an efficient control in these cases, but being it a tedious job. Similarly to this expert knowledge, a stand-alone fuzzy controller has been programmed with Matlab's Fuzzy Logic Toolbox (The MathWorks, Inc.). Two C++ programs complement the translation of the toolpath tracking (expressed in the Cartesian space) from the NX™-CAM module into KRL (KUKA Robot Language). In order to avoid singularities or joint limits, the location of the robot and the workpiece during the execution of the task is fit after an inverse kinematics position analysis and a fuzzy inference (i.e., fuzzy criterion in the Joint Space). Additionally, the applicability of robot arms for the manufacture of big volume prototypes with this technique is proven by means of one case studied. It consists of a big orographic model to simulate floodways, return flows and retention storage of a reservoir in the Mijares river (Puebla de Arenoso, Spain). This article deals with the problem for a constant tool orientation milling process and sets the technological basis for future research at five axis milling operations.

A new technical contribution for ultrasound-guided injections of sacro-iliac joints.

PubMed

Migliore, A; Bizzi, E; Massafra, U; Vacca, F; Martin-Martin, L S; Granata, M; Tormenta, S

2010-05-01

Sacroiliac joint (SIJ) represents a difficult location for local therapies, as intra-articular injections may be hard to execute, especially in particular conditions such as chronic inflammatory diseases. However, in selected patients, local therapies may be considered. Some recent studies demonstrated the feasibility of ultrasound (US)-guided injection of SIJ, but still a complete explanation and definition of the technique is needed. Seven patients, four males and 3 females, affected by mono or bilateral sacroiliitis entered the study. Each patient received 40 mg of acetonide triamcinolone for each SIJ, intra articular (IA) US-guided injection. The technical originality proposed in this study consists in the spinal needle insertion in the middle of the cranial long side of the linear transducer with an orientation of about 10 degrees, determining shorter needle insertion for reaching joint space and consequently probably granting lesser pain and traumatism for patients. A total of 22 injections was performed. The longer follow-up time obtained was 18 months in 3 patients. All patients reached at least a 6 month follow-up. All patients reported an amelioration in pain that lasted for at least 6 months. No systemic adverse events were reported or observed. Complete visualization of SIJ and of needle placement was performed by US imaging, while compound proper injection was also visualized by Color-Doppler US imaging. Actually, sacroiliac joint intraarticular injections are often performed under fluoroscopy or Computerized Tomography guidance. Such techniques present several limitations, especially for repeated injections, such as the use of ionizing radiations, the need of a contrast agent and the direct and indirect costs connected. US guidance in IA SIJ injections may represent an easily repeatable imaging technique for needle placement and a precious tool for detecting inflammatory activity of the joint.

Development of an above-knee prosthesis equipped with a microcomputer-controlled knee joint: first test results.

PubMed

Aeyels, B; Peeraer, L; Vander Sloten, J; Van der Perre, G

1992-05-01

The shortcomings of conventional above-knee prostheses are due to their lack of adaptive control. Implementation of a microcomputer controlling the knee joint in a passive way has been suggested to enhance the patient's gait comfort, safety and cosmesis. This approach was used in the design of a new prosthetic system for the above-knee amputee, and tested on one patient. The knee joint of a conventional, modular prosthesis was replaced by a knee joint mechanism, equipped with a controllable brake on the knee joint axis. Sensors and a microcomputer were added, keeping the system self-contained. The modularity of the design permits the use of an alternative, external, PC-based control unit, emulating the self-contained one, and offering extended data monitoring and storage facilities. For both units an operating environment was written, including sensor/actuator interfacing and the implementation of a real-time interrupt, executing the control algorithm. A double finite state approach was used in the design of the control algorithm. On a higher level, the mode identification algorithm reveals the patient's intent. Within a specific mode (lower level), the relevant mode control algorithm looks for the current phase within the gait cycle. Within a particular phase, a specific simple control action with the brake replaces normal knee muscle activity. Tests were carried out with one prosthetic patient using a basic control algorithm for level walking, allowing controlled knee flexion during stance phase. The technical feasibility of such a concept is illustrated by the test results, even though only flexion during early stance phase was controlled during the trials.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

The effects of urbanization on the hydrochemistry of base flow within the Chattahoochee River Basin (Georgia, USA)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rose, Seth

2007-07-01

SummaryA comprehensive network of stream data ( n = 50) was used to assess the effects of urbanization upon the hydrochemical variation within base flow in the Chattahoochee River Basin (CRB), Georgia (USA). Base flow solute concentrations (particularly sulfate, chloride, bicarbonate alkalinity, and sodium) increase with the degree of urbanization and any degree of urbanization within the Atlanta Metropolitan Region (AMR) results in elevated base flow solute concentrations. This suggests that there are pervasive low-level non-point sources of contamination such as septic tanks systems and leaky sewer lines affecting the chemistry of shallow groundwater throughout much of the AMR and CRB. Six groups or subsets representing the "rural-to-urban gradient" were defined, characterized by the following order of increasing solute concentrations: rural basins < Chattahoochee River. semi-urbanized basins < urbanized basins < urban basins with main sewer trunk lines < urbanized basins directly receiving treated effluent and combined sewer overflow (CSO) basins. There is a strong and unusual basin-wide correlation ( r2 values >0.79) between Na-K-Cl within the CRB that likely reflects the widespread input of electrolytes present in human wastes and wastewater. The most likely source and pathway for contaminant input involves the mobilization of salts, originally present in waste water, within the riparian or hypoheric zone.

Methodological study of submarine groundwater discharge from a karstic aquifer in the Western Mediterranean Sea

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mejías, Miguel; Ballesteros, Bruno J.; Antón-Pacheco, Carmen; Domínguez, José A.; Garcia-Orellana, Jordi; Garcia-Solsona, Ester; Masqué, Pere

2012-09-01

SummaryA multiproxy approach of complementary techniques is applied to localise and quantify submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) from El Maestrazgo Jurassic aquifer, an example of widespread carbonate coastal aquifer of the Western Mediterranean Sea (Castellón, Spain). Unconventional water resources are critical in this area where highly populated resorts have been developed. The aquifer has two main features of particular interest: a karstic system with a deep saturated zone reaching 450 m and with no significant surface discharge occurring within the continental area. On the other hand, SGD can alter the condition of coastal marine environments, reducing salinities and providing nutrients that can cause eutrophication and algal blooms. The applied combined techniques make it possible to detect groundwater outflows using airborne thermal infrared (TIR) images to monitor physico-chemical anomalies in the sea and to quantify the submarine groundwater discharges by means of direct measurements and radium isotopic analyses. Three main coastal areas affected by SGD and a submarine spring located at 3 km from the coast, which seems to be associated with tectonic discontinuities, were localised. The calculated fresh SGD from Ra isotopes, 375 Mm3 y-1, is in agreement with the mean aquifer recharge obtained by hydrogeological methods, 394 Mm3 y-1.

Jordan recurrent neural network versus IHACRES in modelling daily streamflows

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carcano, Elena Carla; Bartolini, Paolo; Muselli, Marco; Piroddi, Luigi

2008-12-01

SummaryA study of possible scenarios for modelling streamflow data from daily time series, using artificial neural networks (ANNs), is presented. Particular emphasis is devoted to the reconstruction of drought periods where water resource management and control are most critical. This paper considers two connectionist models: a feedforward multilayer perceptron (MLP) and a Jordan recurrent neural network (JNN), comparing network performance on real world data from two small catchments (192 and 69 km 2 in size) with irregular and torrential regimes. Several network configurations are tested to ensure a good combination of input features (rainfall and previous streamflow data) that capture the variability of the physical processes at work. Tapped delayed line (TDL) and memory effect techniques are introduced to recognize and reproduce temporal dependence. Results show a poor agreement when using TDL only, but a remarkable improvement can be obtained with JNN and its memory effect procedures, which are able to reproduce the system memory over a catchment in a more effective way. Furthermore, the IHACRES conceptual model, which relies on both rainfall and temperature input data, is introduced for comparative study. The results suggest that when good input data is unavailable, metric models perform better than conceptual ones and, in general, it is difficult to justify substantial conceptualization of complex processes.

Simultaneous estimation of human and exoskeleton motion: A simplified protocol.

PubMed

Alvarez, M T; Torricelli, D; Del-Ama, A J; Pinto, D; Gonzalez-Vargas, J; Moreno, J C; Gil-Agudo, A; Pons, J L

2017-07-01

Adequate benchmarking procedures in the area of wearable robots is gaining importance in order to compare different devices on a quantitative basis, improve them and support the standardization and regulation procedures. Performance assessment usually focuses on the execution of locomotion tasks, and is mostly based on kinematic-related measures. Typical drawbacks of marker-based motion capture systems, gold standard for measure of human limb motion, become challenging when measuring limb kinematics, due to the concomitant presence of the robot. This work answers the question of how to reliably assess the subject's body motion by placing markers over the exoskeleton. Focusing on the ankle joint, the proposed methodology showed that it is possible to reconstruct the trajectory of the subject's joint by placing markers on the exoskeleton, although foot flexibility during walking can impact the reconstruction accuracy. More experiments are needed to confirm this hypothesis, and more subjects and walking conditions are needed to better characterize the errors of the proposed methodology, although our results are promising, indicating small errors.

Friction Stir Welding of Stainless Steel to Al Alloy: Effect of Thermal Condition on Weld Nugget Microstructure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghosh, M.; Gupta, R. K.; Husain, M. M.

2014-02-01

Joining of dissimilar materials is always a global challenge. Sometimes it is unavoidable to execute multifarious activities by a single component. In the present investigation, 6061 aluminum alloy and 304 stainless steel were joined by friction stir welding (FSW) at different tool rotational rates. Welded joints were characterized in optical and scanning electron microscopes. Reaction products in the stirring zone (SZ) were confirmed through X-ray diffraction. Joint strength was evaluated by tensile testing. It was found that the increment in average heat input and temperature at the weld nugget (WN) facilitated iron enrichment near the interface. Enhancement in the concentration of iron shifted the nature of intermetallics from the Fe2Al5 to Fe-rich end of the Fe-Al binary phase diagram. The peak microhardness and ultimate tensile strength were found to be maxima at the intermediate tool rotational rate, where Fe3Al and FeAl2 appeared along with Fe2Al5.

Dual Degree Programs at the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy

PubMed Central

Senft, Sandra L.; Thompson, Chad

2008-01-01

The rapid growth and evolution of the pharmacy profession has created a wide array of opportunities for graduating pharmacists beyond traditional community pharmacy or hospital practice. Management and leadership positions in federal and state healthcare agencies, pharmaceutical companies, hospitals, retail pharmacies, academia and managed care organizations increasingly require the pharmaceutical knowledge obtained through a doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) degree combined with financial, organizational, and management skills. In these innovative positions, pharmacists are being called upon to assume responsibilities as executives and administrators in systems providing pharmacist care services to patients. To endow students with knowledge and skills required to perform the duties required in these decision-making positions, the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy has established 3 joint degree programs: the PharmD/Master of Business Administration (PharmD/MBA), PharmD/Master of Public Administration (PharmD/MPA), and PharmD/Master of Science in Economics (PharmD/MS). This paper describes these joint degree programs. PMID:18322574

Characterization of posture and comfort in laptop users in non-desk settings.

PubMed

Gold, J E; Driban, J B; Yingling, V R; Komaroff, E

2012-03-01

Laptop computers may be used in a variety of postures not coupled to the office workstation. Using passive motion analysis, this study examined mean joint angles during a short typing/editing task in college students (n=20), in up to seven positions. Comfort was assessed after task execution through a body map. For three required postures, joint angles in a prone posture were different than those while seated at a couch with feet either on floor or on ottoman. Specifically, the prone posture was characterized by comparatively non-neutral shoulders, elbows and wrists, and pronounced neck extension. Significantly greater intensity and more regions of discomfort were marked for the prone posture than for the seated postures. It is recommended that the prone posture only be assumed briefly during laptop use. Exposure to laptops outside of the office setting should be assessed in future epidemiologic studies of musculoskeletal complaints and computer use. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd and The Ergonomics Society. All rights reserved.

Mechanical lifting energy consumption in work activities designed by means of the “revised NIOSH lifting equation”

PubMed Central

RANAVOLO, Alberto; VARRECCHIA, Tiwana; RINALDI, Martina; SILVETTI, Alessio; SERRAO, Mariano; CONFORTO, Silvia; DRAICCHIO, Francesco

2017-01-01

The aims of the present work were: to calculate lifting energy consumption (LEC) in work activities designed to have a growing lifting index (LI) by means of revised NIOSH lifting equation; to evaluate the relationship between LEC and forces at the L5-S1 joint. The kinematic and kinetic data of 20 workers were recorded during the execution of lifting tasks in three conditions. We computed kinetic, potential and mechanical energy and the corresponding LEC by considering three different centers of mass of: 1) the load (CoML); 2) the multi-segment upper body model and load together (CoMUpp+L); 3) the whole body and load together (CoMTot). We also estimated compression and shear forces. Results shows that LEC calculated for CoMUpp+L and CoMTot grew significantly with the LI and that all the lifting condition pairs are discriminated. The correlation analysis highlighted a relationship between LEC and forces that determine injuries at the L5-S1 joint. PMID:28781290

Standard spacecraft economic analysis. Volume 1: Executive summary

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harris, E. D.; Large, J. P.

1976-01-01

A study of the comparative program costs associated with use of various standardized spacecraft for Air Force space test program missions to be flown on the space shuttle during the 1980-1990 time period is reviewed. The first phase of the study considered a variety of procurement mixes composed of existing or programmed NASA standard spacecraft designs and a Air Force standard spacecraft design. The results were briefed to a joint NASA/Air Force audience on July 11, 1976. The second phase considered additional procurement options using an upgraded version of an existing NASA design. The results of both phases are summarized.

A joint resolution applying certain conditions to the dispute referred to in Executive Order 13586 of October 6, 2011, between the enumerated freight rail carriers, common carriers by rail in interstate commerce, and certain of their employees represented by labor organizations that have not agreed to extend the cooling-off period under section 10 of the Railway Labor Act beyond 12:01 a.m. on December 6, 2011.

THOMAS, 112th Congress

Sen. Reid, Harry [D-NV

2011-11-30

Senate - 12/01/2011 Read the second time. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 241. (All Actions) Tracker: This bill has the status IntroducedHere are the steps for Status of Legislation:

U.N. official urges business to support HIV prevention.

PubMed

1997-02-21

Executive Director Peter Piot of the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS called on companies to initiate aggressive measures to prevent the further spread of HIV. The global total of HIV cases reached 23 million in 1996. The epidemic threatens the growth of the global economy, particularly in developing nations where private corporations are seeking new markets. The economic toll due to AIDS is devastating because it affects young people who are at the height of their earning power. Piot offered examples of prevention initiatives that have been undertaken by companies to control the epidemic.

STARPAHC systems report. Volume 1: Executive summary

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1977-01-01

A joint NASA and Department of Health, Education, and Welfare/Indian Health Services demonstration project entitled Space Technology Applied to Rural Papago Advanced Health Care (STARPAHC) was conducted to develop a solution for delivering quality health care to people in remote geographical areas. The STARPAHC concept verified the feasibility of telemedicine plus physician assistant - under the direction of a physician as a means of delivering quality health care. The two years of operational evaluation have provided considerable medical and engineering data which will be valuable to the designers and planners of future health care systems on earth and in space.

Knowledge representation into Ada parallel processing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Masotto, Tom; Babikyan, Carol; Harper, Richard

1990-01-01

The Knowledge Representation into Ada Parallel Processing project is a joint NASA and Air Force funded project to demonstrate the execution of intelligent systems in Ada on the Charles Stark Draper Laboratory fault-tolerant parallel processor (FTPP). Two applications were demonstrated - a portion of the adaptive tactical navigator and a real time controller. Both systems are implemented as Activation Framework Objects on the Activation Framework intelligent scheduling mechanism developed by Worcester Polytechnic Institute. The implementations, results of performance analyses showing speedup due to parallelism and initial efficiency improvements are detailed and further areas for performance improvements are suggested.

Are We too Dumb to Execute Our Own Doctrine : An Analysis of Professional Military Education, Talent Management, and their Ability to Meet the Intent of the Capstone Concept for Joint Operations

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-04-04

in 2016, the United States military finds itself in another interwar period, with many similarities to the interwar period between World War I (WWI...and World War II (WWII). At the end of WWI, the nation demobilized the armed forces with over three million service men returning to civilian life...its military spending, falling to fifth in the world in 1938, spending only 2% of its gross domestic product (GDP) on defense. The Army, in

Are We Too Dumb to Execute Our Own Doctrine : An Analysis of Professional Military Education, Talent Management, and Their Ability to Meet the Intent of The Capstone Concept for Joint Operations

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-04-04

in 2016, the United States military finds itself in another interwar period, with many similarities to the interwar period between World War I (WWI...and World War II (WWII). At the end of WWI, the nation demobilized the armed forces with over three million service men returning to civilian life...its military spending, falling to fifth in the world in 1938, spending only 2% of its gross domestic product (GDP) on defense. The Army, in

Characterization of Friction Stir Welded Tubes by Means of Tube Bulge Test

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

D'Urso, G.; Longo, M.; Giardini, C.

2011-05-01

Mechanical properties of friction stir welded joints are generally evaluated by means of conventional tensile test. This testing method might provide insufficient information because maximum strain obtained in tensile test before necking is small; moreover, the application of tensile test is limited when the joint path is not linear or even when the welds are executed on curved surfaces. Therefore, in some cases, it would be preferable to obtain the joints properties from other testing methods. Tube bulge test can be a valid solution for testing circumferential or longitudinal welds executed on tubular workpieces. The present work investigates the mechanical properties and the formability of friction stir welded tubes by means of tube bulge tests. The experimental campaign was performed on tubular specimens having a thickness of 3 mm and an external diameter of 40 mm, obtained starting from two semi-tubes longitudinally friction stir welded. The first step, regarding the fabrication of tubes, was performed combining a conventional forming process and friction stir welding. Sheets in Al-Mg-Si-Cu alloy AA6060 T6 were adopted for this purpose. Plates having a dimension of 225×60 mm were bent (with a bending axis parallel to the main dimension) in order to obtain semi-tubes. A particular care was devoted to the fabrication of forming devices (punch and die) in order to minimize the springback effects. Semi-tubes were then friction stir welded by means of a CNC machine tool. Some preliminary tests were carried out by varying the welding parameters, namely feed rate and rotational speed. A very simple tool having flat shoulder and cylindrical pin was used. The second step of the research was based on testing the welded tubes by means of tube bulge test. A specific equipment having axial actuators with a conical shape was adopted for this study. Some analyses were carried out on the tubes bulged up to a certain pressure level. In particular, the burst pressure and the wall thickness were measured for each tested tube.

American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology/American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Joint Task Force Report on omalizumab-associated anaphylaxis.

PubMed

Cox, Linda; Platts-Mills, Thomas A E; Finegold, Ira; Schwartz, Lawrence B; Simons, F Estelle R; Wallace, Dana V

2007-12-01

The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology and the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Executive Committees formed the Omalizumab Joint Task Force with the purpose of reviewing the Genentech Xolair (omalizumab) clinical trials and postmarketing surveillance data on anaphylaxis and anaphylactoid reactions. Using the definition of anaphylaxis proposed at a 2005 multidisciplinary symposia, the Omalizumab Joint Task Force concluded that 35 patients had 41 episodes of anaphylaxis associated with Xolair (omalizumab) administration between June 1, 2003, and December 31, 2005. With 39,510 patients receiving Xolair (omalizumab) during the same period of time, this would correspond to an anaphylaxis-reporting rate of 0.09% of patients. Of those 36 events for which the time of reaction was known, 22 (61%) reactions occurred in the first 2 hours after one of the first 3 doses. Five (14%) of the events after the fourth or later doses occurred within 30 minutes. Considering the timing of these 36 events, an observation period of 2 hours for the first 3 injections and 30 minutes for subsequent injections would have captured 75% of the anaphylactic reactions. The OJTF report provides recommendations for physicians who prescribe Xolair (omalizumab) on (1) the suggested wait periods after administration and (2) patient education regarding anaphylaxis.

What should I do next? Using shared representations to solve interaction problems.

PubMed

Pezzulo, Giovanni; Dindo, Haris

2011-06-01

Studies on how "the social mind" works reveal that cognitive agents engaged in joint actions actively estimate and influence another's cognitive variables and form shared representations with them. (How) do shared representations enhance coordination? In this paper, we provide a probabilistic model of joint action that emphasizes how shared representations help solving interaction problems. We focus on two aspects of the model. First, we discuss how shared representations permit to coordinate at the level of cognitive variables (beliefs, intentions, and actions) and determine a coherent unfolding of action execution and predictive processes in the brains of two agents. Second, we discuss the importance of signaling actions as part of a strategy for sharing representations and the active guidance of another's actions toward the achievement of a joint goal. Furthermore, we present data from a human-computer experiment (the Tower Game) in which two agents (human and computer) have to build together a tower made of colored blocks, but only the human knows the constellation of the tower to be built (e.g., red-blue-red-blue-…). We report evidence that humans use signaling strategies that take another's uncertainty into consideration, and that in turn our model is able to use humans' actions as cues to "align" its representations and to select complementary actions.

The influence of knee alignment on lower extremity kinetics during squats.

PubMed

Slater, Lindsay V; Hart, Joseph M

2016-12-01

The squat is an assessment of lower extremity alignment during movement, however there is little information regarding altered joint kinetics during poorly performed squats. The purpose of this study was to examine changes in joint kinetics and power from altered knee alignment during a squat. Thirty participants completed squats while displacing the knee medially, anteriorly, and with neutral alignment (control). Sagittal and frontal plane torques at the ankle, knee, and hip were altered in the descending and ascending phase of the squat in both the medial and anterior malaligned squat compared to the control squat. Ankle and trunk power increased and hip power decreased in the medial malaligned squat compared to the control squat. Ankle, knee, and trunk power increased and hip power decreased in the anterior malaligned squat compared to the control squat. Changes in joint torques and power during malaligned squats suggest that altered knee alignment increases ankle and trunk involvement to execute the movement. Increased anterior knee excursion during squatting may also lead to persistent altered loading of the ankle and knee. Sports medicine professionals using the squat for quadriceps strengthening must consider knee alignment to reduce ankle and trunk involvement during the movement. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Dynamics of thermographic skin temperature response during squat exercise at two different speeds.

PubMed

Formenti, Damiano; Ludwig, Nicola; Trecroci, Athos; Gargano, Marco; Michielon, Giovanni; Caumo, Andrea; Alberti, Giampietro

2016-07-01

Low intensity resistance training with slow movement and tonic force generation has been shown to create blood flow restriction within muscles that may affect thermoregulation through the skin. We aimed to investigate the influence of two speeds of exercise execution on skin temperature dynamics using infrared thermography. Thirteen active males performed randomly two sessions of squat exercise (normal speed, 1s eccentric/1s concentric phase, 1s; slow speed, 5s eccentric/5s concentric phase, 5s), using ~50% of 1 maximal repetition. Thermal images of ST above muscles quadriceps were recorded at a rate of 0.05Hz before the exercise (to determine basal ST) and for 480s following the initiation of the exercise (to determine the nonsteady-state time course of ST). Results showed that ST changed more slowly during the 5s exercise (p=0.002), whereas the delta (with respect to basal) excursions were similar for the two exercises (p>0.05). In summary, our data provided a detailed nonsteady-state portrait of ST changes following squat exercises executed at two different speeds. These results lay the basis for further investigations entailing the joint use of infrared thermography and Doppler flowmetry to study the events taking place both at the skin and the muscle level during exercises executed at slow speed. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Reducing vibration transfer from power plants by active methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kiryukhin, A. V.; Milman, O. O.; Ptakhin, A. V.

2017-12-01

The possibility of applying the methods of active damping of vibration and pressure pulsations for reducing their transfer from power plants into the environment, the seating, and the industrial premises are considered. The results of experimental works implemented by the authors on the active broadband damping of vibration and dynamic forces after shock-absorption up to 15 dB in the frequency band up to 150 Hz, of water pressure pulsations in the pipeline up to 20 dB in the frequency band up to 600 Hz, and of spatial low-frequency air noise indoors of a diesel generator at discrete frequency up to 20 dB are presented. It is shown that a reduction of vibration transfer through a vibration-isolating junction (expansion joints) of pipelines with liquid is the most complicated and has hardly been developed so far. This problem is essential for vibration isolation of power equipment from the seating and the environment through pipelines with water and steam in the power and transport engineering, shipbuilding, and in oil and gas pipelines in pumping stations. For improving efficiency, reducing the energy consumption, and decreasing the overall dimensions of equipment, it is advisable to combine the work of an active system with passive damping means, the use of which is not always sufficient. The executive component of the systems of active damping should be placed behind the vibration isolators (expansion joints). It is shown that the existence of working medium and connection of vibration with pressure pulsations in existing designs of pipeline expansion joints lead to growth of vibration stiffness of the expansion joint with the environment by two and more orders as compared with the static stiffness and makes difficulties for using the active methods. For active damping of vibration transfer through expansion joints of pipelines with a liquid, it is necessary to develop expansion joint structures with minimal connection of vibrations and pulsations and minimal vibration stiffness in the specified frequency range. The example of structure of such expansion joint and its test results are presented.

Experiments and simulation for 6061-T6 aluminum alloy resistance spot welded lap joints

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Florea, Radu Stefanel

This comprehensive study is the first to quantify the fatigue performance, failure loads, and microstructure of resistance spot welding (RSW) in 6061-T6 aluminum (Al) alloy according to welding parameters and process sensitivity. The extensive experimental, theoretical and simulated analyses will provide a framework to optimize the welding of lightweight structures for more fuel-efficient automotive and military applications. The research was executed in four primary components. The first section involved using electron back scatter diffraction (EBSD) scanning, tensile testing, laser beam profilometry (LBP) measurements, and optical microscopy(OM) images to experimentally investigate failure loads and deformation of the Al-alloy resistance spot welded joints. Three welding conditions, as well as nugget and microstructure characteristics, were quantified according to predefined process parameters. Quasi-static tensile tests were used to characterize the failure loads in specimens based upon these same process parameters. Profilometer results showed that increasing the applied welding current deepened the weld imprints. The EBSD scans revealed the strong dependency between the grain sizes and orientation function on the process parameters. For the second section, the fatigue behavior of the RSW'ed joints was experimentally investigated. The process optimization included consideration of the forces, currents, and times for both the main weld and post-heating. Load control cyclic tests were conducted on single weld lap-shear joint coupons to characterize the fatigue behavior in spot welded specimens. Results demonstrate that welding parameters do indeed significantly affect the microstructure and fatigue performance for these welds. The third section comprised residual strains of resistance spot welded joints measured in three different directions, denoted as in-plane longitudinal, in-plane transversal, and normal, and captured on the fusion zone, heat affected zone and base metal of the joints. Neutron diffraction results showed residual stresses in the weld are approximately 40% lower than the yield strength of the parent material, with maximum variation occurring in the vertical position of the specimen because of the orientation of electrode clamping forces that produce a non-uniform solidification pattern. In the final section a theoretical continuum modeling framework for 6061-T6 aluminum resistance spot welded joints is presented.

Evaluation of the effects of the Arm Light Exoskeleton on movement execution and muscle activities: a pilot study on healthy subjects.

PubMed

Pirondini, Elvira; Coscia, Martina; Marcheschi, Simone; Roas, Gianluca; Salsedo, Fabio; Frisoli, Antonio; Bergamasco, Massimo; Micera, Silvestro

2016-01-23

Exoskeletons for lower and upper extremities have been introduced in neurorehabilitation because they can guide the patient's limb following its anatomy, covering many degrees of freedom and most of its natural workspace, and allowing the control of the articular joints. The aims of this study were to evaluate the possible use of a novel exoskeleton, the Arm Light Exoskeleton (ALEx), for robot-aided neurorehabilitation and to investigate the effects of some rehabilitative strategies adopted in robot-assisted training. We studied movement execution and muscle activities of 16 upper limb muscles in six healthy subjects, focusing on end-effector and joint kinematics, muscle synergies, and spinal maps. The subjects performed three dimensional point-to-point reaching movements, without and with the exoskeleton in different assistive modalities and control strategies. The results showed that ALEx supported the upper limb in all modalities and control strategies: it reduced the muscular activity of the shoulder's abductors and it increased the activity of the elbow flexors. The different assistive modalities favored kinematics and muscle coordination similar to natural movements, but the muscle activity during the movements assisted by the exoskeleton was reduced with respect to the movements actively performed by the subjects. Moreover, natural trajectories recorded from the movements actively performed by the subjects seemed to promote an activity of muscles and spinal circuitries more similar to the natural one. The preliminary analysis on healthy subjects supported the use of ALEx for post-stroke upper limb robotic assisted rehabilitation, and it provided clues on the effects of different rehabilitative strategies on movement and muscle coordination.

Postural reconfiguration and cycle-to-cycle variability in patients with work-related musculoskeletal disorders compared to healthy controls and in relation to pain emerging during a repetitive movement task.

PubMed

Longo, Alessia; Meulenbroek, Ruud; Haid, Thomas; Federolf, Peter

2018-05-01

Movement variability in sustained repetitive tasks is an important factor in the context of work-related musculoskeletal disorders. While a popular hypothesis suggests that movement variability can prevent overuse injuries, pain evolving during task execution may also cause variability. The aim of the current study was to investigate, first, differences in movement behavior between volunteers with and without work-related pain and, second, the influence of emerging pain on movement variability. Upper-body 3D kinematics were collected as 22 subjects with musculoskeletal disorders and 19 healthy volunteers performed a bimanual repetitive tapping task with a self-chosen and a given rhythm. Three subgroups were formed within the patient group according to the level of pain the participants experienced during the task. Principal component analysis was applied to 30 joint angle coordinates to characterize in a combined analysis the movement variability associated with reconfigurations of the volunteers' postures and the cycle-to-cycle variability that occurred during the execution of the task. Patients with no task-related pain showed lower cycle-to-cycle variability compared to healthy controls. Findings also indicated an increase in movement variability as pain emerged, manifesting both as frequent postural changes and large cycle-to-cycle variability. The findings suggested a relationship between work-related musculoskeletal disorders and movement variability but further investigation is needed on this issue. Additionally, the findings provided clear evidence that pain increased motor variability. Postural reconfigurations and cycle-to-cycle variability should be considered jointly when investigating movement variability and musculoskeletal disorders. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A biomechanical comparison of back and front squats in healthy trained individuals.

PubMed

Gullett, Jonathan C; Tillman, Mark D; Gutierrez, Gregory M; Chow, John W

2009-01-01

The strength and stability of the knee plays an integral role in athletics and activities of daily living. A better understanding of knee joint biomechanics while performing variations of the squat would be useful in rehabilitation and exercise prescription. We quantified and compared tibiofemoral joint kinetics as well as muscle activity while executing front and back squats. Because of the inherent change in the position of the center of mass of the bar between the front and back squat lifts, we hypothesized that the back squat would result in increased loads on the knee joint and that the front squat would result in increased knee extensor and decreased back extensor muscle activity. A crossover study design was used. To assess the net force and torque placed on the knee and muscle activation levels, a combination of video and force data, as well as surface electromyographic data, were collected from 15 healthy trained individuals. The back squat resulted in significantly higher compressive forces and knee extensor moments than the front squat. Shear forces at the knee were small in magnitude, posteriorly directed, and did not vary between the squat variations. Although bar position did not influence muscle activity, muscle activation during the ascending phase was significantly greater than during the descending phase. The front squat was as effective as the back squat in terms of overall muscle recruitment, with significantly less compressive forces and extensor moments. The results suggest that front squats may be advantageous compared with back squats for individuals with knee problems such as meniscus tears, and for long-term joint health.

Small Satellites and the DARPA/Air Force Falcon Program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Weeks, David J.; Walker, Steven H.; Sackheim, Robert L.

2004-01-01

The FALCON ((Force Application and Launch from CONUS) program is a technology demonstration effort with three major components: a Small Launch Vehicle (SLV), a Common Aero Vehicle (CAV), and a Hypersonic Cruise Vehicle (HCV). Sponsored by DARPA and executed jointly by the United States Air Force and DARPA with NASA participation, the objectives are to develop and demonstrate technologies that will enable both near-term and far-term capability to execute time-critical, global reach missions. The focus of this paper is on the SLV as it relates to small satellites and the implications of lower cost to orbit for small satellites. The target recurring cost for placing 1000 pounds payloads into a circular reference orbit of 28.5 degrees at 100 nautical miles is $5,000,000 per launch. This includes range costs but not the payload or payload integration costs. In addition to the nominal 1000 pounds to LEO, FALCON is seeking delivery of a range of orbital payloads from 220 pounds to 2200 pounds to the reference orbit. Once placed on alert status, the SLV must be capable of launch within 24 hours.

Results from colliding magnetized plasma jet experiments executed at the Trident laser facility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manuel, M. J.-E.; Rasmus, A. M.; Kurnaz, C. C.; Klein, S. R.; Davis, J. S.; Drake, R. P.; Montgomery, D. S.; Hsu, S. C.; Adams, C. S.; Pollock, B. B.

2015-11-01

The interaction of high-velocity plasma flows in a background magnetic field has applications in pulsed-power and fusion schemes, as well as astrophysical environments, such as accretion systems and stellar mass ejections into the magnetosphere. Experiments recently executed at the Trident Laser Facility at the Los Alamos National Laboratory investigated the effects of an expanding aluminum plasma flow into a uniform 4.5-Tesla magnetic field created using a solenoid designed and manufactured at the University of Michigan. Opposing-target experiments demonstrate interesting collisional behavior between the two magnetized flows. Preliminary interferometry and Faraday rotation measurements will be presented and discussed. This work is funded by the U.S Department of Energy, through the NNSA-DS and SC-OFES Joint Program in High-Energy-Density Laboratory Plasmas, grant number DE-NA0001840. Support for this work was provided by NASA through Einstein Postdoctoral Fellowship grant number PF3-140111 awarded by the Chandra X-ray Center, which is operated by the Astrophysical Observatory for NASA under contract NAS8-03060.

U.S. and U.S.S.R agree on ocean research

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ostenso, Ned A.

On June 1, 1990, George Bush and Mikhail S. Gorbachev signed a renegotiated bilateral agreement for cooperation in oceanographic research. The original agreement for “Studies of the World Ocean,” signed in 1972, did not provide for the protection of intellectual property. The new agreement is administered by executive secretaries from both countries working under the U.S.-U.S.S.R. Joint Committee on Cooperation in Ocean Studies. The committee held its first meeting in Moscow September 14-17, 1990, at the headquarters of the U.S.S.R. State Committee for Science and Technology (GKNT).The U.S. delegation was led by John A. Knauss, undersecretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere and administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and included Ned A. Ostenso, executive secretary of the agreement; Thomas E. Murray, NOAA; M. Grant Gross, National Science Foundation; Robert S. Winokur, U.S. Navy; Bonnie McGregor Stubblefield, U.S. Geological Survey; William S. Busch, Office of Science and Technology Policy; and William A. Erb, Eric Green, and Sidney Smith, Department of State.

USACE National Coastal Mapping Program Update

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sylvester, C.

2017-12-01

The Joint Airborne Lidar Bathymetry Technical Center of Expertise (JALBTCX) formed in 1998 to support the coastal mapping and charting requirements of the USACE, NAVO, NOAA and USGS. This partnership fielded three generations of airborne lidar bathymeters, executed operational data collection programs within the U.S. and overseas, and advanced research and development in airborne lidar bathymetry and complementary technologies. JALBTCX executes a USACE Headquarters-funded National Coastal Mapping Program (NCMP). Initiated in 2004, the NCMP provides high-resolution, high-accuracy elevation and imagery data along the sandy shorelines of the U.S. on a recurring basis. NCMP mapping activities are coordinated with Federal mapping partners through the Interagency Working Group on Ocean and Coastal Mapping and the 3D Elevation Program. The NCMP, currently in it's third cycle, is performing operations along the East Coast in 2017, after having completed surveys along the Gulf Coast in 2016 and conducting emergency response operations in support of Hurricane Matthew. This presentation will provide an overview of JALBTCX, its history in furthering airborne lidar bathymetry technology to meet emerging mapping requirements, current NCMP operations and data products, and Federal mapping coordination activities.

Surgery in the Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis and Ankylosing Spondylitis

PubMed Central

Law, W. Alexander

1948-01-01

The pain, deformities and disabilities resulting from rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis must be treated by a team composed of physician, physical medicine expert, orthopædic surgeon, and, in certain cases, deep X-ray therapist working simultaneously. The principle of “rest” in order to relieve pain has to be combined with methods designed to preserve and restore function. The multiple joint deformities in these cases may necessitate a long programme of reconstructive or functional treatment, which entails whole-hearted co-operation on the part of the patient in intensive post-operative exercise regime. Procedures advocated for the upper limb include excision of the acromion process together with the subacromial bursa to allow free movement between the central tendon of the deltoid and the tendinous shoulder cuff: arthrodesis of the shoulder in cases where there is more severe joint destruction: in certain cases of elbow-joint arthritis, excision of the radial head and sub-total synovectomy may preserve joint function and avoid or delay the necessity for arthroplasty which can be carried out in two ways: (a) similar to the formal joint excision, or (b) re-shaping the lower end of the humerus and upper end of the ulna lining these surfaces with fascia. The former method is preferable in cases of rheumatoid arthritis. To overcome wrist-joint deformity and restore pronation and supination excision of the lower end of the ulna together with radiocarpal fusion in position for optimum function is advocated. Finger and toe joints may be corrected by resection of the bone ends and capsulectomy. In the lower limbs bilateral involvement of the hip-joint is best treated by vitallium mould arthroplasty which may be carried out in four ways: (1) Routine arthroplasty; (2) Modified Whitman procedure; (3) Modified Colonna operation; and (4) The proximal shaft or intertrochanteric arthroplasty. It is essential in these operations to have knowledge of the operative technique, the use of special hip gouges and reamers, and detailed post-operative supervision. For dorsal kyphosis of the spine, spinal osteotomy at the lumbar level provides excellent correction but is an operation demanding care and skill in its execution. The author's remarks are based on experience gained when working with Dr. M. N. Smith-Petersen at the Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, U.S.A. PMID:18914877

The first Spacelab payload - A joint NASA/ESA venture

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kennedy, R.; Pace, R.; Collet, J.; Sanfourche, J. P.

1977-01-01

Planning for the 1980 qualification flight of Spacelab, which will involve a long module and one pallet, is discussed. The mission will employ two payload specialists, one sponsored by NASA and the other by ESA. Management of the Spacelab mission functions, including definition and execution of the on-board experiments, development of the experimental hardware and training of the payload specialists, is considered; studies proposed in the areas of atmospheric physics, space plasma physics, solar physics, earth observations, astronomy, astrophysics, life sciences and material sciences are reviewed. Analyses of the Spacelab environment and the Spacelab-to-orbiter and Spacelab-to-experiment interactions are also planned.

Answering Public Health Concerns Over Japanese Nuclear Disaster | ORAU

ScienceCinema

Allen, Leeanna; Vasconez, Rachel

2018-05-11

When the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant became crippled following Japan's March 2011 earthquake and tsunami, some U.S. citizens became concerned about whether radiation would disperse across the Pacific Ocean. As the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention prepared to assist in the U.S. response effort, ORAU provided the CDC with onsite, staff support at its Joint Information Center. ORAU also had a lead role in the development and execution of the CDC's first-ever Bridging the Gaps: Public Health and Radiation Emergency Preparedness conference, which took place 10 days after the earthquake and served as a forum for discussing the current state of radiation emergency preparedness.

Exploiting replication in distributed systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Birman, Kenneth P.; Joseph, T. A.

1989-01-01

Techniques are examined for replicating data and execution in directly distributed systems: systems in which multiple processes interact directly with one another while continuously respecting constraints on their joint behavior. Directly distributed systems are often required to solve difficult problems, ranging from management of replicated data to dynamic reconfiguration in response to failures. It is shown that these problems reduce to more primitive, order-based consistency problems, which can be solved using primitives such as the reliable broadcast protocols. Moreover, given a system that implements reliable broadcast primitives, a flexible set of high-level tools can be provided for building a wide variety of directly distributed application programs.

Wind-energy Science, Technology and Research (WindSTAR) Consortium: Curriculum, Workforce Development, and Education Plan Final Report

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

Manwell, James

2013-03-19

The purpose of the project is to modify and expand the current wind energy curriculum at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and to develop plans to expand the graduate program to a national scale. The expansion plans include the foundational steps to establish the American Academy of Wind Energy (AAWE). The AAWE is intended to be a cooperative organization of wind energy research, development, and deployment institutes and universities across North America, whose mission will be to develop and execute joint RD&D projects and to organize high-level science and education in wind energy

KSC-03PD-1440

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2003-01-01

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - John Cassanto (center), with Instrumentation Technology Associates, Inc., explains the use of the apparatus used for experiments on mission STS-107. At left is Barry Perlman, with Pembroke Pines Middle School in Florida; at right is Lou Friedman, executive director of the Planetary Society. The box was part of the Commercial ITA Biomedical Experiments payload on mission STS-107 that included the Growth of Bacterial Biofilm on Surfaces during Spaceflight (GOBBSS) experiment and crystals grown for cancer research. The GOBBSS experiment was sponsored by the Planetary Society, with joint participation of an Israeli and a Palestinian student, and developed by the Israeli Aerospace Medical Institute and JSC Astrobiology Center.

KSC-03PD-1439

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2003-01-01

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - George D'Heilly, with Instrumentation Technology Associates, Inc., Barry Perlman, with Pembroke Pines Middle School in Florida, John Cassanto, with ITA, and Lou Friedman, executive director of the Planetary Society, talk to the media about the experiments recovered during the search for Columbia debris. They were part of the Commercial ITA Biomedical Experiments payload on mission STS-107 that included the Growth of Bacterial Biofilm on Surfaces during Spaceflight (GOBBSS) experiment and crystals grown for cancer research. The GOBBSS experiment was sponsored by the Planetary Society, with joint participation of an Israeli and a Palestinian student, and developed by the Israeli Aerospace Medical Institute and JSC Astrobiology Center.

KSC-03PD-1442

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2003-01-01

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Barry Perlman (left), with Pembroke Pines Charter Middle School in Florida, talks to the media about some of the experiments recovered during the search for Columbia debris. At right are John Cassanto, with Instrumentation Technology Associates, Inc., and Lou Friedman, executive director of the Planetary Society. The Commercial ITA Biomedical Experiments payload on mission STS-107 included the Growth of Bacterial Biofilm on Surfaces during Spaceflight (GOBBSS) experiment and crystals grown for cancer research. The GOBBSS experiment was sponsored by the Planetary Society, with joint participation of an Israeli and a Palestinian student, and developed by the Israeli Aerospace Medical Institute and JSC Astrobiology Center.

KSC-03PD-1441

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2003-01-01

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the background, scientists talk to the media about the experiments recovered during the search for Columbia debris. From left are George D'Heilly, with Instrumentation Technology Associates, Inc.; Barry Perlman, with Pembroke Pines Middle School in Florida; John Cassanto, with ITA; and Lou Friedman, executive director of the Planetary Society. The Commercial ITA Biomedical Experiments payload on mission STS- 107 included the Growth of Bacterial Biofilm on Surfaces during Spaceflight (GOBBSS) experiment and crystals grown for cancer research. The GOBBSS experiment was sponsored by the Planetary Society, with joint participation of an Israeli and a Palestinian student, and developed by the Israeli Aerospace Medical Institute and JSC Astrobiology Center.

KSC-03pd1441

NASA Image and Video Library

2003-05-06

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the background, scientists talk to the media about the experiments recovered during the search for Columbia debris. From left are George D'Heilly, with Instrumentation Technology Associates, Inc.; Barry Perlman, with Pembroke Pines Middle School in Florida; John Cassanto, with ITA; and Lou Friedman, executive director of the Planetary Society. The Commercial ITA Biomedical Experiments payload on mission STS-107 included the Growth of Bacterial Biofilm on Surfaces during Spaceflight (GOBBSS) experiment and crystals grown for cancer research. The GOBBSS experiment was sponsored by the Planetary Society, with joint participation of an Israeli and a Palestinian student, and developed by the Israeli Aerospace Medical Institute and JSC Astrobiology Center.

KSC-03pd1439

NASA Image and Video Library

2003-05-06

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - George D'Heilly, with Instrumentation Technology Associates, Inc., Barry Perlman, with Pembroke Pines Middle School in Florida, John Cassanto, with ITA, and Lou Friedman, executive director of the Planetary Society, talk to the media about the experiments recovered during the search for Columbia debris. They were part of the Commercial ITA Biomedical Experiments payload on mission STS-107 that included the Growth of Bacterial Biofilm on Surfaces during Spaceflight (GOBBSS) experiment and crystals grown for cancer research. The GOBBSS experiment was sponsored by the Planetary Society, with joint participation of an Israeli and a Palestinian student, and developed by the Israeli Aerospace Medical Institute and JSC Astrobiology Center.

KSC-03pd1442

NASA Image and Video Library

2003-05-06

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Barry Perlman (left), with Pembroke Pines Charter Middle School in Florida, talks to the media about some of the experiments recovered during the search for Columbia debris. At right are John Cassanto, with Instrumentation Technology Associates, Inc., and Lou Friedman, executive director of the Planetary Society. The Commercial ITA Biomedical Experiments payload on mission STS-107 included the Growth of Bacterial Biofilm on Surfaces during Spaceflight (GOBBSS) experiment and crystals grown for cancer research. The GOBBSS experiment was sponsored by the Planetary Society, with joint participation of an Israeli and a Palestinian student, and developed by the Israeli Aerospace Medical Institute and JSC Astrobiology Center.

KSC-03pd1440

NASA Image and Video Library

2003-05-06

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - John Cassanto (center), with Instrumentation Technology Associates, Inc., explains the use of the apparatus used for experiments on mission STS-107. At left is Barry Perlman, with Pembroke Pines Middle School in Florida; at right is Lou Friedman, executive director of the Planetary Society. The box was part of the Commercial ITA Biomedical Experiments payload on mission STS-107 that included the Growth of Bacterial Biofilm on Surfaces during Spaceflight (GOBBSS) experiment and crystals grown for cancer research. The GOBBSS experiment was sponsored by the Planetary Society, with joint participation of an Israeli and a Palestinian student, and developed by the Israeli Aerospace Medical Institute and JSC Astrobiology Center.

Computational modeling to predict mechanical function of joints: application to the lower leg with simulation of two cadaver studies.

PubMed

Liacouras, Peter C; Wayne, Jennifer S

2007-12-01

Computational models of musculoskeletal joints and limbs can provide useful information about joint mechanics. Validated models can be used as predictive devices for understanding joint function and serve as clinical tools for predicting the outcome of surgical procedures. A new computational modeling approach was developed for simulating joint kinematics that are dictated by bone/joint anatomy, ligamentous constraints, and applied loading. Three-dimensional computational models of the lower leg were created to illustrate the application of this new approach. Model development began with generating three-dimensional surfaces of each bone from CT images and then importing into the three-dimensional solid modeling software SOLIDWORKS and motion simulation package COSMOSMOTION. Through SOLIDWORKS and COSMOSMOTION, each bone surface file was filled to create a solid object and positioned necessary components added, and simulations executed. Three-dimensional contacts were added to inhibit intersection of the bones during motion. Ligaments were represented as linear springs. Model predictions were then validated by comparison to two different cadaver studies, syndesmotic injury and repair and ankle inversion following ligament transection. The syndesmotic injury model was able to predict tibial rotation, fibular rotation, and anterior/posterior displacement. In the inversion simulation, calcaneofibular ligament extension and angles of inversion compared well. Some experimental data proved harder to simulate accurately, due to certain software limitations and lack of complete experimental data. Other parameters that could not be easily obtained experimentally can be predicted and analyzed by the computational simulations. In the syndesmotic injury study, the force generated in the tibionavicular and calcaneofibular ligaments reduced with the insertion of the staple, indicating how this repair technique changes joint function. After transection of the calcaneofibular ligament in the inversion stability study, a major increase in force was seen in several of the ligaments on the lateral aspect of the foot and ankle, indicating the recruitment of other structures to permit function after injury. Overall, the computational models were able to predict joint kinematics of the lower leg with particular focus on the ankle complex. This same approach can be taken to create models of other limb segments such as the elbow and wrist. Additional parameters can be calculated in the models that are not easily obtained experimentally such as ligament forces, force transmission across joints, and three-dimensional movement of all bones. Muscle activation can be incorporated in the model through the action of applied forces within the software for future studies.

Fast approximation for joint optimization of segmentation, shape, and location priors, and its application in gallbladder segmentation.

PubMed

Saito, Atsushi; Nawano, Shigeru; Shimizu, Akinobu

2017-05-01

This paper addresses joint optimization for segmentation and shape priors, including translation, to overcome inter-subject variability in the location of an organ. Because a simple extension of the previous exact optimization method is too computationally complex, we propose a fast approximation for optimization. The effectiveness of the proposed approximation is validated in the context of gallbladder segmentation from a non-contrast computed tomography (CT) volume. After spatial standardization and estimation of the posterior probability of the target organ, simultaneous optimization of the segmentation, shape, and location priors is performed using a branch-and-bound method. Fast approximation is achieved by combining sampling in the eigenshape space to reduce the number of shape priors and an efficient computational technique for evaluating the lower bound. Performance was evaluated using threefold cross-validation of 27 CT volumes. Optimization in terms of translation of the shape prior significantly improved segmentation performance. The proposed method achieved a result of 0.623 on the Jaccard index in gallbladder segmentation, which is comparable to that of state-of-the-art methods. The computational efficiency of the algorithm is confirmed to be good enough to allow execution on a personal computer. Joint optimization of the segmentation, shape, and location priors was proposed, and it proved to be effective in gallbladder segmentation with high computational efficiency.

Joint Cockpit Office: history and role in defense-wide issues regarding avionics displays

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

O'Connor, John C.; Kraemer, William A.

2000-08-01

The charter of the Joint Cockpit Office (JCO) is to plan, coordinate and accelerate the transition of advanced development cockpit/crew station technologies critical to crew effectiveness in current and future air vehicles. The JCO helps assure a single, coordinated, and highly integrated cockpit/crew station Science and Technology (S&T) program within and between the Air Force, the Army, and the Navy. It serves as the primary interface and focal point for issues involving these technologies for organizations within and external to the Services. The Services are at the advent of fielding new technologies such as helmet-mounted displays as a primary flight reference. They will most certainly evaluate the use of windowless cockpits to counter the laser threat and allow for less constraining aerodynamic conditions in future vehicle design. The transition to multi-spectral displays in future military and commercial aircraft is imminent. The JCO is well positioned to assess and focus the research needed to safely exploit these new technologies and meet customer requirements. Presently, the JCO is undertaking three initiatives: creation of a joint-service, Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRDA) with Lockheed Martin to study the thresholds of virtual helmet-mounted display attributes and effects on pilot performance; management of the Spatial Disorientation Countermeasures program, and facilitation of the actions determined by the DoD Executive Agent for Flat Panel Displays.

Temporomandibular joint arthroscopy technique using a single working cannula.

PubMed

Srouji, S; Oren, D; Zoabi, A; Ronen, O; Zraik, H

2016-11-01

The traditional arthroscopy technique includes the creation of three ports in order to enable visualization, operation, and arthrocentesis. The aim of this study was to assess an advanced temporomandibular joint (TMJ) arthroscopy technique that requires only a single cannula, through which a one-piece instrument containing a visualization canal, irrigation canal, and a working canal is inserted, as an alternative to the traditional double-puncture technique. This retrospective study assessed eight patients (13 TMJs) with pain and/or limited range of movement that was refractory to conservative therapy, who were treated between June 2015 and December 2015. The temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) was diagnosed by physical examination and mouth opening measurements. The duration of surgery was recorded and compared to that documented for traditional arthroscopies performed by the same surgeon. Operative single-cannula arthroscopy (OSCA) was performed using a holmium YAG (Ho:YAG) 230μm fibre laser for ablation. The OSCA technique proved effective in improving mouth opening in all patients (mean increase 9.12±1.96mm) and in reducing pain (mean visual analogue scale decrease of 3.25±1.28). The operation time was approximately half that of the traditional technique. The OSCA technique is as efficient as the traditional technique, is simple to learn, and is simpler to execute. Copyright © 2016 International Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Does the centre of mass remain stable during complex human postural equilibrium tasks in weightlessness?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stapley, Paul; Pozzo, Thierry

In normal gravity conditions the execution of voluntary movement involves the displacement of body segments as well as the maintenance of a stable reference value for equilibrium control. It has been suggested that centre of mass (CM) projection within the supporting base (BS) is the stabilised reference for voluntary action, and is conserved in weightlessness. The purpose of this study was to determine if the CM is stabilised during whole body reaching movements executed in weightlessness. The reaching task was conducted by two cosmonauts aboard the Russian orbital station MIR, during the Franco-Russian mission ALTAIR, 1993. Movements of reflective markers were recorded using a videocamera, successive images being reconstructed by computer every 40ms. The position of the CM, ankle joint torques and shank and thigh angles were computed for each subject pre- in- and post-flight using a 7-link mathematical model. Results showed that both cosmonauts adopted a backward leaning posture prior to reaching movements. Inflight, the CM was displaced throughout values in the horizontal axis three times those of pre-flight measures. In addition, ankle dorsi flexor torques inflight increased to values double those of pre- and post-flight tests. This study concluded that CM displacements do not remain stable during complex postural equilibrium tasks executed in weightlessness. Furthermore, in the absence of gravity, subjects changed their strategy for producing ankle torque during spaceflight from a forward to a backward leaning posture.

Maternal Obesity and Excessive Gestational Weight Gain Are Associated with Components of Child Cognition.

PubMed

Pugh, Sarah J; Richardson, Gale A; Hutcheon, Jennifer A; Himes, Katherine P; Brooks, Maria M; Day, Nancy L; Bodnar, Lisa M

2015-11-01

Maternal overweight and obesity affect two-thirds of women of childbearing age and may increase the risk of impaired child cognition. Our objective was to test the hypothesis that high/low gestational weight gain (GWG) and high/low prepregnancy BMI were associated with offspring intelligence quotient (IQ) and executive function at age 10. Mother-infant dyads (n = 763) enrolled in a birth cohort study were followed from early pregnancy to 10 y postpartum. IQ was assessed by trained examiners with the use of the Stanford Binet Intelligence Scale-4th edition. Executive function was assessed by the number of perseverative errors on the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test and time to complete Part B on the Trail Making Test. Self-reported total GWG was converted to gestational-age-standardized GWG z score. Multivariable linear regression and negative binomial regression were used to estimate independent and joint effects of GWG and BMI on outcomes while adjusting for covariates. At enrollment, the majority of women in the Maternal Health Practices and Child Development cohort were unmarried and unemployed, and more than one-half reported their race as black. The mean ± SD GWG z score was -0.5 ± 1.8, and 27% of women had a pregravid BMI ≥ 25. The median (IQR) number of perseverative errors was 23 (17, 29), the mean ± SD time on Part B was 103 ± 42.6 s, and 44% of children had a low average IQ (≤ 89). Maternal obesity was associated with 3.2 lower IQ points (95% CI: -5.6, -0.8) and a slower time to complete the executive function scale Part B (adjusted β: 12.7 s; 95% CI: 2.8, 23 s) compared with offspring of normal-weight mothers. Offspring of mothers whose GWG was >+1 SD, compared with -1 to +1 SD, performed 15 s slower on the executive function task (95% CI: 1.8, 28 s). There was no association between GWG z score and offspring composite IQ score (adjusted β: -0.32; 95% CI: -0.72, 0.10). Prepregnancy BMI did not modify these associations. Although GWG may be important for executive function, maternal BMI has a stronger relation than GWG to both offspring intelligence and executive function. Our findings contribute to evidence linking maternal obesity to long-term child outcomes. © 2015 American Society for Nutrition.

Can doctors and administrators work together?

PubMed

Gill, S L

1987-01-01

The working relationship between physicians and health care organizations has dramatically changed since the introduction of competitive factors. Fifer suggests that future doctors may have as many as five or six economic relationships with their associated health care system, in contrast to the singular role as admitting physician of the past. The physician will continue to admit patients, but may also belong to an HMO or some other joint venture (freestanding ambulatory care center, outpatient laboratory, etc.), be salaried part time for leadership roles, be a leader in some other parallel economic venture, etc. Physicians are already assuming multiple roles as health care providers, private entrepreneurs, and joint venture partners with hospitals. Hospitals and health care systems also continue to change through vertical and horizontal integration. Traditional clinical departments are becoming blended into product line entities, and a sophisticated executive team of market-oriented specialists now augments the traditional administrative leadership. So, from a tradition of predictable roles, relationships, and authority structures, we are now attempting to thrive and prosper with many new partners in an integrated, complex, and conflict-ridden set of interrelationships.

Executive summary of management of prosthetic joint infections. Clinical practice guidelines by the Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology (SEIMC).

PubMed

Ariza, Javier; Cobo, Javier; Baraia-Etxaburu, Josu; Benito, Natividad; Bori, Guillermo; Cabo, Javier; Corona, Pablo; Esteban, Jaime; Horcajada, Juan Pablo; Lora-Tamayo, Jaime; Murillo, Oscar; Palomino, Julián; Parra, Jorge; Pigrau, Carlos; Del Pozo, José Luis; Riera, Melchor; Rodríguez, Dolores; Sánchez-Somolinos, Mar; Soriano, Alex; Del Toro, M Dolores; de la Torre, Basilio

2017-03-01

The incidence of prosthetic joint infection (PJI) is expected to increase in the coming years. PJI has serious consequences for patients, and high costs for the health system. The complexity of these infections makes it necessary to organize the vast quantity of information published in the last several years. The indications for the choice of a given surgical strategy and the corresponding antimicrobial therapy are specifically reviewed. The authors selected clinically relevant questions and then reviewed the available literature in order to give recommendations according to a pre-determined level of scientific evidence. The more controversial aspects were debated, and the final composition was agreed at an ad hoc meeting. Before its final publication, the manuscript was made available online in order that all SEIMC members were able to read it and make comments and suggestions. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier España, S.L.U. and Sociedad Española de Enfermedades Infecciosas y Microbiología Clínica. All rights reserved.

Joint power generation differentiates young and adult sprinters during the transition from block start into acceleration: a cross-sectional study.

PubMed

Debaere, Sofie; Vanwanseele, Benedicte; Delecluse, Christophe; Aerenhouts, Dirk; Hagman, Friso; Jonkers, Ilse

2017-11-01

The aim of this study was to investigate differences in joint power generation between well-trained adult athletes and young sprinters from block clearance to initial contact of second stance. Eleven under 16 (U16) and 18 under 18 (U18) promising sprinters executed an explosive start action. Fourteen well-trained adult sprinters completed the exact same protocol. All athletes were equipped with 74 spherical reflective markers, while an opto-electronic motion analysis system consisting of 12 infrared cameras (250 Hz, MX3, Vicon, Oxford Metrics, UK) and 2 Kistler force plates (1,000 Hz) was used to collect the three-dimensional marker trajectories and ground reaction forces (Nexus, Vicon). Three-dimensional kinematics, kinetics, and power were calculated (Opensim) and time normalised from the first action after gunshot until initial contact of second stance after block clearance. This study showed that adult athletes rely on higher knee power generation during the first stance to induce longer step length and therefore higher velocity. In younger athletes, power generation of hip was more dominant.

Interbrains cooperation: Hyperscanning and self-perception in joint actions.

PubMed

Balconi, Michela; Vanutelli, Maria Elide

2017-08-01

The aim of the present study was to investigate the neural bases of cooperative behaviors and social self-perception underlying the execution of joint actions by using a hyperscanning brain paradigm with functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). We firstly found that an artificial positive feedback on the cognitive performance was able to affect the self-perception of social position and hierarchy (higher social ranking) for the dyad, as well as the cognitive performance (decreased error rate, ER, and response times, RTs). In addition, the shared cognitive strategy was concurrently improved within the dyad after this social reinforcing. Secondly, fNIRS measures revealed an increased brain activity in the postfeedback condition for the dyad. Moreover, an interbrain similarity was found for the dyads during the task, with higher coherent prefrontal cortex (PFC) activity for the interagents in the postfeedback condition. Finally, a significant prefrontal brain lateralization effect was revealed, with the left hemisphere being more engaged during the postfeedback condition. To summarize, the self-perception, the cognitive performance, and the shared brain activity were all reinforced by the social feedback within the dyad.

Optimization of Multiple Related Negotiation through Multi-Negotiation Network

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ren, Fenghui; Zhang, Minjie; Miao, Chunyan; Shen, Zhiqi

In this paper, a Multi-Negotiation Network (MNN) and a Multi- Negotiation Influence Diagram (MNID) are proposed to optimally handle Multiple Related Negotiations (MRN) in a multi-agent system. Most popular, state-of-the-art approaches perform MRN sequentially. However, a sequential procedure may not optimally execute MRN in terms of maximizing the global outcome, and may even lead to unnecessary losses in some situations. The motivation of this research is to use a MNN to handle MRN concurrently so as to maximize the expected utility of MRN. Firstly, both the joint success rate and the joint utility by considering all related negotiations are dynamically calculated based on a MNN. Secondly, by employing a MNID, an agent's possible decision on each related negotiation is reflected by the value of expected utility. Lastly, through comparing expected utilities between all possible policies to conduct MRN, an optimal policy is generated to optimize the global outcome of MRN. The experimental results indicate that the proposed approach can improve the global outcome of MRN in a successful end scenario, and avoid unnecessary losses in an unsuccessful end scenario.

Joint action syntax in Japanese martial arts.

PubMed

Yamamoto, Yuji; Yokoyama, Keiko; Okumura, Motoki; Kijima, Akifumi; Kadota, Koji; Gohara, Kazutoshi

2013-01-01

Participation in interpersonal competitions, such as fencing or Japanese martial arts, requires players to make instantaneous decisions and execute appropriate motor behaviors in response to various situations. Such actions can be understood as complex phenomena emerging from simple principles. We examined the intentional switching dynamics associated with continuous movement during interpersonal competition in terms of their emergence from a simple syntax. Linear functions on return maps identified two attractors as well as the transitions between them. The effects of skill differences were evident in the second- and third-order state-transition diagrams for these two attractors. Our results suggest that abrupt switching between attractors is related to the diverse continuous movements resulting from quick responses to sudden changes in the environment. This abrupt-switching-quick-response behavior is characterized by a joint action syntax. The resulting hybrid dynamical system is composed of a higher module with discrete dynamics and a lower module with continuous dynamics. Our results suggest that intelligent human behavior and robust autonomy in real-life scenarios are based on this hybrid dynamical system, which connects interpersonal coordination and competition.

Mechanical lifting energy consumption in work activities designed by means of the "revised NIOSH lifting equation".

PubMed

Ranavolo, Alberto; Varrecchia, Tiwana; Rinaldi, Martina; Silvetti, Alessio; Serrao, Mariano; Conforto, Silvia; Draicchio, Francesco

2017-10-07

The aims of the present work were: to calculate lifting energy consumption (LEC) in work activities designed to have a growing lifting index (LI) by means of revised NIOSH lifting equation; to evaluate the relationship between LEC and forces at the L 5 -S 1 joint. The kinematic and kinetic data of 20 workers were recorded during the execution of lifting tasks in three conditions. We computed kinetic, potential and mechanical energy and the corresponding LEC by considering three different centers of mass of: 1) the load (CoM L ); 2) the multi-segment upper body model and load together (CoM Upp+L ); 3) the whole body and load together (CoM Tot ). We also estimated compression and shear forces. Results shows that LEC calculated for CoM Upp+L and CoM Tot grew significantly with the LI and that all the lifting condition pairs are discriminated. The correlation analysis highlighted a relationship between LEC and forces that determine injuries at the L 5 -S 1 joint.

The version 3 OMI NO2 standard product

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krotkov, Nickolay A.; Lamsal, Lok N.; Celarier, Edward A.; Swartz, William H.; Marchenko, Sergey V.; Bucsela, Eric J.; Chan, Ka Lok; Wenig, Mark; Zara, Marina

2017-09-01

We describe the new version 3.0 NASA Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) standard nitrogen dioxide (NO2) products (SPv3). The products and documentation are publicly available from the NASA Goddard Earth Sciences Data and Information Services Center (https://disc.gsfc.nasa.gov/datasets/OMNO2_V003/summary/). The major improvements include (1) a new spectral fitting algorithm for NO2 slant column density (SCD) retrieval and (2) higher-resolution (1° latitude and 1.25° longitude) a priori NO2 and temperature profiles from the Global Modeling Initiative (GMI) chemistry-transport model with yearly varying emissions to calculate air mass factors (AMFs) required to convert SCDs into vertical column densities (VCDs). The new SCDs are systematically lower (by ˜ 10-40 %) than previous, version 2, estimates. Most of this reduction in SCDs is propagated into stratospheric VCDs. Tropospheric NO2 VCDs are also reduced over polluted areas, especially over western Europe, the eastern US, and eastern China. Initial evaluation over unpolluted areas shows that the new SPv3 products agree better with independent satellite- and ground-based Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) measurements. However, further evaluation of tropospheric VCDs is needed over polluted areas, where the increased spatial resolution and more refined AMF estimates may lead to better characterization of pollution hot spots.

Experimental and numerical study of the relation between flow paths and fate of a pesticide in a riparian wetland

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kidmose, Jacob; Dahl, Mette; Engesgaard, Peter; Nilsson, Bertel; Christensen, Britt S. B.; Andersen, Stine; Hoffmann, Carl Christian

2010-05-01

SummaryA field-scale pulse-injection experiment with the herbicide Isoproturon was conducted in a Danish riparian wetland. A non-reactive tracer (bromide) experiment was also carried out to characterize the physical transport system. Groundwater flow and reactive transport modelling was used to simulate flow paths, residence times, as well as bromide and Isoproturon distributions. The wetland can be characterized by two distinct riparian flow paths; one flow path discharges 2/3 of the incoming groundwater directly to the free water surface of the wetland near the foot of the hillslope with an average residence time of 205 days, and another flow path diffusively discharging the remaining 1/3 of the incoming groundwater to the stream with an average residence time of 425 days. The reactive transport simulations reveal that Isoproturon is retarded by a factor of 2-4, which is explained by the high organic content in the peat layer of the wetland. Isoproturon was found to be aerobically degraded with a half-life in the order of 12-80 days. Based on the quantification of flow paths, residence times and half-lives it is estimated that about 2/3 of the injected Isoproturon is removed in the wetland. Thus, close to 1/3 may find its way to the stream through overland flow. It is also possible that high concentrations of metabolites will reach the stream.

Recovery of injected freshwater to differentiate fracture flow in a low-permeability brackish aquifer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miotliński, Konrad; Dillon, Peter J.; Pavelic, Paul; Cook, Peter G.; Page, Declan W.; Levett, Kerry

2011-10-01

SummaryA low-permeability weathered siltstone-sandstone aquifer containing brackish water was investigated to measure recoverability of injected freshwater with the aim of determining the significance of secondary porosity in contributing to groundwater flow and transport. Examination of the core, borehole geophysics, Radon-222, electromagnetic flowmeter (EMF) profiles and step-drawdown pumping tests did not identify whether fractures contribute to groundwater flow. A number of injection and recovery tests lasting from 3 days to 3 months using potable water showed a large degree of mixing with native groundwater. Withdrawal greater than 12-17% of the injected volume resulted in recovered water containing more native groundwater than injected water. A finite element solute transport model was set up to reproduce the observed salinity in recovered water. Without the inclusion of discrete fractures in the model it was not possible to get a fit between the observed and modelled salinity of recovered water within a realistic range of dispersivity values. The model was subsequently verified by using data from long-term injection and recovery trials. This evaluation of mixing conclusively demonstrated that the aquifer behaved as a fractured rock aquifer and not as an aquifer with primary porosity alone. Therefore, aquifer storage and recovery can be a very useful hydrogeological method to identify the occurrence of fracture flow in aquifers where there is a measurable concentration difference between the injected water and ambient groundwater.

Current-wave spectra coupling project. Volume III. Cumulative distribution of forces on structures subjected to the combined action of currents and random waves for potential OTEC sites: (A) Keahole Point, Hawaii, 100 year hurricane; (B) Punta Tuna, Puerto Rico, 100 year hurricane; (C) New Orleans, Louisiana, 100 year hurricane; (D) West Coast of Florida, 100 year hurricane. [CUFOR code

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

Venezian, G.; Bretschneider, C.L.

1980-08-01

This volume details a new methodology to analyze statistically the forces experienced by a structure at sea. Conventionally a wave climate is defined using a spectral function. The wave climate is described using a joint distribution of wave heights and periods (wave lengths), characterizing actual sea conditions through some measured or estimated parameters like the significant wave height, maximum spectral density, etc. Random wave heights and periods satisfying the joint distribution are then generated. Wave kinetics are obtained using linear or non-linear theory. In the case of currents a linear wave-current interaction theory of Venezian (1979) is used. The peakmore » force experienced by the structure for each individual wave is identified. Finally, the probability of exceedance of any given peak force on the structure may be obtained. A three-parameter Longuet-Higgins type joint distribution of wave heights and periods is discussed in detail. This joint distribution was used to model sea conditions at four potential OTEC locations. A uniform cylindrical pipe of 3 m diameter, extending to a depth of 550 m was used as a sample structure. Wave-current interactions were included and forces computed using Morison's equation. The drag and virtual mass coefficients were interpolated from published data. A Fortran program CUFOR was written to execute the above procedure. Tabulated and graphic results of peak forces experienced by the structure, for each location, are presented. A listing of CUFOR is included. Considerable flexibility of structural definition has been incorporated. The program can easily be modified in the case of an alternative joint distribution or for inclusion of effects like non-linearity of waves, transverse forces and diffraction.« less

Joint Test Report for Validation of Alternative Low-Emission Surface Preparation/Depainting Technologies for Structural Steel

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lewis, Pattie

2007-01-01

Headquarters National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) chartered the NASA Acquisition Pollution Prevention (AP2) Office to coordinate agency activities affecting pollution prevention issues identified during system and component acquisition and sustainment processes. The primary objectives of the AP2 Office are to: (1) Reduce or eliminate the use of hazardous materials or hazardous processes at manufacturing, remanufacturing, and sustainment locations. (2) Avoid duplication of effort in actions required to reduce or eliminate hazardous materials through joint center cooperation and technology sharing. The objective of this project was to qualify candidate alternative Low-Emission Surface Preparation/Depainting Technologies for Structural Steel applications at NASA facilities. This project compares the surface preparation/depainting performance of the proposed alternatives to existing surface preparation/depainting systems or standards. This Joint Test Report (JTR) contains the results of testing as per the outlines of the Joint Test Protocol (JTP), Joint Test Protocol for Validation of Alternative Low-Emission Surface Preparation/Depainting Technologies for Structural Steel, and the Field Test Plan (FTP), Field Evaluations Test Plan for Validation of Alternative Low-Emission Surface Preparation/Depainting Technologies for Structural Steel, for critical requirements and tests necessary to qualify alternatives for coating removal systems. These tests were derived from engineering, performance, and operational impact (supportability) requirements defined by a consensus of government and industry participants. This JTR documents the results of the testing as well as any test modifications made during the execution of the project. This JTR is made available as a reference for future pollution prevention endeavors by other NASA Centers, the Department of Defense and commercial users to minimize duplication of effort. The current coating removal processes identified herein are for polyurethane, epoxy and other paint systems applied by conventional wet-spray processes. A table summarizes the target hazardous materials, processes and materials, applications, affected programs, and candidate substrates.

Train the brain: immediate sensorimotor effects of mentally performed flexor exercises in patients with neck pain. A pilot study.

PubMed

Beinert, Konstantin; Sofsky, Marc; Trojan, Jörg

2018-05-09

Sensorimotor tests, like cranio- cervical flexion and cervical joint position sense tests, share a strong cognitive component during their execution. However, cognitive training for those tests has not been investigated so far. To compare mental and physical exercises for improving the sensorimotor function of the cervical spine. A within-subject design with 16 participants. Outpatient physiotherapy centre. Patients with chronic neck pain. Participants were instructed to perform specific active or mental exercises for the deep and superficial neck flexor muscles. The primary outcomes were cranio-cervical flexion test performance, postural sway, cervical joint position sense and pressure pain threshold. A mixed model analysis was used. The interventions improved cranio-cervical flexion performance (p < 0.001), with no difference between actively or mentally performed exercises. Postural sway increased after actively (p < 0.01) and mentally (p < 0.05) performed deep cervical neck flexor exercises, but not after superficial neck flexor exercises. Mentally performed superficial neck flexor exercises improved cervical joint position sense when compared to mentally performed deep cervical flexor exercises (p < 0.05), and actively performed superficial neck flexor exercises were effective in improving cervical joint position sense acuity compared to mentally performed deep cervical flexor exercises (p < 0.05) for relocation tasks in the transverse plane. The pressure pain threshold at the cervical spine increased after active deep cervical flexor exercises (p < 0.05) and after mental superficial neck flexor exercise (p < 0.05). Mentally performed deep cervical flexor exercises improved cranio-cervical flexion test performance, postural sway and pressure pain threshold at the cervical spine. Mentally performed superficial neck flexor exercises improved cervical joint position sense acuity more than mentally performed deep cervical flexor exercises. Mentally performed exercises are recommended in the early stages of rehabilitation to counteract extensive muscle impairment, and these can be incorporated into daily routine.

Real-time inverse kinematics for the upper limb: a model-based algorithm using segment orientations.

PubMed

Borbély, Bence J; Szolgay, Péter

2017-01-17

Model based analysis of human upper limb movements has key importance in understanding the motor control processes of our nervous system. Various simulation software packages have been developed over the years to perform model based analysis. These packages provide computationally intensive-and therefore off-line-solutions to calculate the anatomical joint angles from motion captured raw measurement data (also referred as inverse kinematics). In addition, recent developments in inertial motion sensing technology show that it may replace large, immobile and expensive optical systems with small, mobile and cheaper solutions in cases when a laboratory-free measurement setup is needed. The objective of the presented work is to extend the workflow of measurement and analysis of human arm movements with an algorithm that allows accurate and real-time estimation of anatomical joint angles for a widely used OpenSim upper limb kinematic model when inertial sensors are used for movement recording. The internal structure of the selected upper limb model is analyzed and used as the underlying platform for the development of the proposed algorithm. Based on this structure, a prototype marker set is constructed that facilitates the reconstruction of model-based joint angles using orientation data directly available from inertial measurement systems. The mathematical formulation of the reconstruction algorithm is presented along with the validation of the algorithm on various platforms, including embedded environments. Execution performance tables of the proposed algorithm show significant improvement on all tested platforms. Compared to OpenSim's Inverse Kinematics tool 50-15,000x speedup is achieved while maintaining numerical accuracy. The proposed algorithm is capable of real-time reconstruction of standardized anatomical joint angles even in embedded environments, establishing a new way for complex applications to take advantage of accurate and fast model-based inverse kinematics calculations.

From the motor cortex to the movement and back again.

PubMed

Teka, Wondimu W; Hamade, Khaldoun C; Barnett, William H; Kim, Taegyo; Markin, Sergey N; Rybak, Ilya A; Molkov, Yaroslav I

2017-01-01

The motor cortex controls motor behaviors by generating movement-specific signals and transmitting them through spinal cord circuits and motoneurons to the muscles. Precise and well-coordinated muscle activation patterns are necessary for accurate movement execution. Therefore, the activity of cortical neurons should correlate with movement parameters. To investigate the specifics of such correlations among activities of the motor cortex, spinal cord network and muscles, we developed a model for neural control of goal-directed reaching movements that simulates the entire pathway from the motor cortex through spinal cord circuits to the muscles controlling arm movements. In this model, the arm consists of two joints (shoulder and elbow), whose movements are actuated by six muscles (4 single-joint and 2 double-joint flexors and extensors). The muscles provide afferent feedback to the spinal cord circuits. Cortical neurons are defined as cortical "controllers" that solve an inverse problem based on a proposed straight-line trajectory to a target position and a predefined bell-shaped velocity profile. Thus, the controller generates a motor program that produces a task-specific activation of low-level spinal circuits that in turn induce the muscle activation realizing the intended reaching movement. Using the model, we describe the mechanisms of correlation between cortical and motoneuronal activities and movement direction and other movement parameters. We show that the directional modulation of neuronal activity in the motor cortex and the spinal cord may result from direction-specific dynamics of muscle lengths. Our model suggests that directional modulation first emerges at the level of muscle forces, augments at the motoneuron level, and further increases at the level of the motor cortex due to the dependence of frictional forces in the joints, contractility of the muscles and afferent feedback on muscle lengths and/or velocities.

Baking together-the coordination of actions in activities involving people with dementia.

PubMed

Majlesi, Ali Reza; Ekström, Anna

2016-08-01

This study explores interaction and collaboration between people with dementia and their spouses in relation to the performance of household chores with the focus on instruction as an interactional context to engage the person with dementia in collaboration to accomplish joint activities. Dementia is generally associated with pathological changes in people's cognitive functions such as diminishing memory functions, communicative abilities and also diminishing abilities to take initiative as well as to plan and execute tasks. Using video recordings of everyday naturally occurring activities, we analyze the sequential organization of actions (see Schegloff, 2007) oriented toward the accomplishment of a joint multi-task activity of baking. The analysis shows the specific ways of collaboration through instructional activities in which the person with dementia exhibits his competence and skills in accomplishing the given tasks through negotiating the instructions with his partner and carrying out instructed actions. Although the driving force of the collaboration seems to be a series of directive sequences only initiated by the partner throughout the baking activity, our analyses highlight how the person with dementia can actively use the material environment-including collaborating partners-to compensate for challenges and difficulties encountered in achieving everyday tasks. The sequential organization of instructions and instructed actions are in this sense argued to provide an interactional environment wherein the person with dementia can make contributions to the joint activity in an efficient way. While a collaborator has been described as necessary for a person with dementia to be able to partake in activities, this study shows that people with dementia are not only guided by their collaborators in joint activities but they can also actively use their collaborators in intricate compensatory ways. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Expanding NASA and Roscosmos Scientific Collaboration on the International Space Station

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hasbrook, Pete

2016-01-01

The International Space Station (ISS) is a world-class laboratory orbiting in space. NASA and Roscosmos have developed a strong relationship through the ISS Program Partnership, working together and with the other ISS Partners for more than twenty years. Since 2013, based on a framework agreement between the Program Managers, NASA and Roscosmos are building a joint program of collaborative research on ISS. This international collaboration is developed and implemented in phases. Initially, members of the ISS Program Science Forum from NASA and TsNIIMash (representing Roscosmos) identified the first set of NASA experiments that could be implemented in the "near term". The experiments represented the research categories of Technology Demonstration, Microbiology, and Education. Through these experiments, the teams from the "program" and "operations" communities learned to work together to identify collaboration opportunities, establish agreements, and jointly plan and execute the experiments. The first joint scientific activity on ISS occurred in January 2014, and implementation of these joint experiments continues through present ISS operations. NASA and TsNIIMash have proceeded to develop "medium term" collaborations, where scientists join together to improve already-proposed experiments. A major success is the joint One-Year Mission on ISS, with astronaut Scott Kelly and cosmonaut Mikhail Kornienko, who returned from ISS in March, 2016. The teams from the NASA Human Research Program and the RAS Institute for Biomedical Problems built on their considerable experience to design joint experiments, learn to work with each other's protocols and processes, and share medical and research data. New collaborations are being developed between American and Russian scientists in complex fluids, robotics, rodent research and space biology, and additional human research. Collaborations are also being developed in Earth Remote Sensing, where scientists will share data from imaging systems mounted on ISS as well as other orbiting spacecraft to improve our understanding of the Earth and its climate. NASA and Roscosmos continue to encourage international scientific cooperation and expanded use of the ISS Laboratory. "Long-term", larger collaborations will achieve scientific objectives that no single national science team or agency can achieve on its own. The joint accomplishments achieved so far have paved the way for a stronger international scientific community and improved results and benefits from ISS.

Aquarius SAC-D Post-Launch Briefing

NASA Image and Video Library

2011-06-10

Hector Timerman, Foreign Minister of Argentina, Buenos Aires, left, Michael Freilich, NASA Earth Science Division Director, NASA Headquarters, Washington, center, and Conrado Varotto, CONAE Executive and Technical Director, Buenos Aires, laugh at the start of the Aquarius/SAC-D post-launch press conference on Friday, June 10, 2011 at the NASA Resident Office, Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. The joint U.S./Argentinian Aquarius/Satélite de Aplicaciones Científicas (SAC)-D mission, launched earlier on Friday June 10, will map the salinity at the ocean surface, information critical to improving our understanding of two major components of Earth's climate system: the water cycle and ocean circulation. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

Answering Public Health Concerns Over Japanese Nuclear Disaster | ORAU

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

Allen, Leeanna; Vasconez, Rachel

When the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant became crippled following Japan's March 2011 earthquake and tsunami, some U.S. citizens became concerned about whether radiation would disperse across the Pacific Ocean. As the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention prepared to assist in the U.S. response effort, ORAU provided the CDC with onsite, staff support at its Joint Information Center. ORAU also had a lead role in the development and execution of the CDC's first-ever Bridging the Gaps: Public Health and Radiation Emergency Preparedness conference, which took place 10 days after the earthquake and served as a forum for discussing themore » current state of radiation emergency preparedness.« less

Robot geometry calibration

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hayati, Samad; Tso, Kam; Roston, Gerald

1988-01-01

Autonomous robot task execution requires that the end effector of the robot be positioned accurately relative to a reference world-coordinate frame. The authors present a complete formulation to identify the actual robot geometric parameters. The method applies to any serial link manipulator with arbitrary order and combination of revolute and prismatic joints. A method is also presented to solve the inverse kinematic of the actual robot model which usually is not a so-called simple robot. Experimental results performed by utilizing a PUMA 560 with simple measurement hardware are presented. As a result of this calibration a precision move command is designed and integrated into a robot language, RCCL, and used in the NASA Telerobot Testbed.

The Relationship Between the Educational Background and Managerial Experience of Senior Navy Medical Service Corps Executives (Health Care Administrators) and their Perceived Current and Required Management Capabilities.

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-03-01

MANAGERIAL EXPERIENCE OF EL ECT E SENIOR NAVY MICAL SERVICE CORP S UN(Jn4 20, 1994 (HEALTH CARE ADMINISTRATORS) AND THEIR PERCEIVED CURRENT AND...Aftww vw~bLam 1 or&Nw s~W7iafmoisw bpA de aMpiW s*W &Sm CPANd B*0 Vad-- NaeLL3e %o@A vie w paterilmbfwo adModaa rnornswv wmea r, In sdMi ID tor %wmwuW diD...principles of joint and combed military opemioms. U.S. muilatay cqmbility and the mviomment in which as opere-s. forsmulan of sound desOon within de of

A Data Set of Human Body Movements for Physical Rehabilitation Exercises.

PubMed

Vakanski, Aleksandar; Jun, Hyung-Pil; Paul, David; Baker, Russell

2018-03-01

The article presents University of Idaho - Physical Rehabilitation Movement Data (UI-PRMD) - a publically available data set of movements related to common exercises performed by patients in physical rehabilitation programs. For the data collection, 10 healthy subjects performed 10 repetitions of different physical therapy movements, with a Vicon optical tracker and a Microsoft Kinect sensor used for the motion capturing. The data are in a format that includes positions and angles of full-body joints. The objective of the data set is to provide a basis for mathematical modeling of therapy movements, as well as for establishing performance metrics for evaluation of patient consistency in executing the prescribed rehabilitation exercises.

Disabling hand injuries in boxing: boxer's knuckle and traumatic carpal boss.

PubMed

Melone, Charles P; Polatsch, Daniel B; Beldner, Steven

2009-10-01

This article describes the treatment of the two most debilitating hand-related boxing injuries: boxer's knuckle and traumatic carpal boss. Recognition of the normal anatomy as well as the predictable pathology facilitates an accurate diagnosis and precision surgery. For boxer's knuckle, direct repair of the disrupted extensor hood, without the need for tendon augmentation, has been consistently employed; for traumatic carpal boss, arthrodesis of the destabilized carpometacarpal joints has been the preferred method of treatment. Precisely executed operative treatment of both injuries has resulted in a favorable outcome, as in the vast majority of cases the boxers have experienced relief of pain, restoration of function, and an unrestricted return to competition.

Report of the Cost Assessment and Validation Task Force on the International Space Station

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1998-01-01

The Cost Assessment and Validation (CAV) Task Force was established for independent review and assessment of cost, schedule and partnership performance on the International Space Station (ISS) Program. The CAV Task Force has made the following key findings: The International Space Station Program has made notable and reasonable progress over the past four years in defining and executing a very challenging and technically complex effort. The Program size, complexity, and ambitious schedule goals were beyond that which could be reasonably achieved within the $2.1 billion annual cap or $17.4 billion total cap. A number of critical risk elements are likely to have an adverse impact on the International Space Station cost and schedule. The schedule uncertainty associated with Russian implementation of joint Partnership agreements is the major threat to the ISS Program. The Fiscal Year (FY) 1999 budget submission to Congress is not adequate to execute the baseline ISS Program, cover normal program growth, and address the known critical risks. Additional annual funding of between $130 million and $250 million will be required. Completion of ISS assembly is likely to be delayed from one to three years beyond December 2003.

Cost Assessment and Validation Task Force on the International Space Station

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1998-01-01

The Cost Assessment and Validation (CAV) Task Force was established for independent review and assessment of cost, schedule and partnership performance on the International Space Station (ISS) Program. The CAV Task Force has made the following key findings: The International Space Station Program has made notable and reasonable progress over the past four years in defining and executing a very challenging and technically complex effort; The Program, size, complexity, and ambitious schedule goals were beyond that which could be reasonably achieved within the $2.1 billion annual cap or $17.4 billion total cap; A number of critical risk elements are likely to have an adverse impact on the International Space Station cost and schedule; The schedule uncertainty associated with Russian implementation of joint Partnership agreements is the major threat to the ISS Program; The Fiscal Year (FY) 1999 budget submission to Congress is not adequate to execute the baseline ISS Program, cover normal program, growth, and address the known critical risks. Additional annual funding of between $130 million and $250 million will be required; and Completion of ISS assembly is likely to be delayed from, one to three years beyond December 2003.

Kinematics and control of redundant robotic arm based on dielectric elastomer actuators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Branz, Francesco; Antonello, Andrea; Carron, Andrea; Carli, Ruggero; Francesconi, Alessandro

2015-04-01

Soft robotics is a promising field and its application to space mechanisms could represent a breakthrough in space technologies by enabling new operative scenarios (e.g. soft manipulators, capture systems). Dielectric Elastomers Actuators have been under deep study for a number of years and have shown several advantages that could be of key importance for space applications. Among such advantages the most notable are high conversion efficiency, distributed actuation, self-sensing capability, multi-degree-of-freedom design, light weight and low cost. The big potentialities of double cone actuators have been proven in terms of good performances (i.e. stroke and force/torque), ease of manufacturing and durability. In this work the kinematic, dynamic and control design of a two-joint redundant robotic arm is presented. Two double cone actuators are assembled in series to form a two-link design. Each joint has two degrees of freedom (one rotational and one translational) for a total of four. The arm is designed to move in a 2-D environment (i.e. the horizontal plane) with 4 DoF, consequently having two degrees of redundancy. The redundancy is exploited in order to minimize the joint loads. The kinematic design with redundant Jacobian inversion is presented. The selected control algorithm is described along with the results of a number of dynamic simulations that have been executed for performance verification. Finally, an experimental setup is presented based on a flexible structure that counteracts gravity during testing in order to better emulate future zero-gravity applications.

Hope or Hype? What is Next for Biofuels? (LBNL Science at the Theater)

ScienceCinema

Keasling, Jay; Bristow, Jim; Tringe, Susannah Green

2017-12-09

Science at the Theater: From the sun to your gas tank: A new breed of biofuels may help solve the global energy challenge and reduce the impact of fossil fuels on global warming. KTVU Channel 2 health and science editor John Fowler will moderate a panel of Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory scientists who are developing ways to convert the solar energy stored in plants into liquid fuels. Jay Keasling is one of the foremost authorities in the field of synthetic biology. He is applying this research toward the production of advanced carbon-neutral biofuels that can replace gasoline on a gallon-for-gallon basis. Keasling is Berkeley Labs Acting Deputy Director and the Chief Executive Officer of the U.S. Department of Energys Joint BioEnergy Institute. Jim Bristow is deputy director of programs for the U.S. Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute (JGI), a national user facility in Walnut Creek, CA. He developed and implemented JGIs Community Sequencing Program, which provides large-scale DNA sequencing and analysis to advance genomics related to bioenergy and environmental characterization and cleanup. Susanna Green Tringe is a computational biologist with the U.S. Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute (JGI). She helped pioneer the field of metagenomics, a new strategy for isolating, sequencing, and characterizing DNA extracted directly from environmental samples, such as the contents of the termite gut, which yielded enzymes responsible for breakdown of wood into fuel.

Failure tolerance strategy of space manipulator for large load carrying tasks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Gang; Yuan, Bonan; Jia, Qingxuan; Sun, Hanxu; Guo, Wen

2018-07-01

During the execution of large load carrying tasks in long term service, there is a notable risk of space manipulator suffering from locked-joint failure, thus space manipulator should be with enough failure tolerance performance. A research on evaluating failure tolerance performance and re-planning feasible task trajectory for space manipulator performing large load carrying tasks is conducted in this paper. The effects of locked-joint failure on critical performance(reachability and load carrying capacity) of space manipulator are analyzed at first. According to the requirements of load carrying tasks, we further propose a new concept of failure tolerance workspace with load carrying capacity(FTWLCC) to evaluate failure tolerance performance, and improve the classic A* algorithm to search the feasible task trajectory. Through the normalized FTWLCC and the improved A* algorithm, the reachability and load carrying capacity of the degraded space manipulator are evaluated, and the reachable and capable trajectory can be obtained. The establishment of FTWLCC provides a novel idea that combines mathematical statistics with failure tolerance performance to illustrate the distribution of load carrying capacity in three-dimensional space, so multiple performance indices can be analyzed simultaneously and visually. And the full consideration of all possible failure situations and motion states makes FTWLCC and improved A* algorithm be universal and effective enough to be appropriate for random joint failure and variety of requirement of large load carrying tasks, so they can be extended to other types of manipulators.

Visual and non-visual control of landing movements in humans

PubMed Central

Santello, Marco; McDonagh, Martin J N; Challis, John H

2001-01-01

The role of vision in controlling leg muscle activation in landing from a drop was investigated. Subjects (n = 8) performed 10 drops from four heights (0.2, 0.4, 0.6 and 0.8 m) with and without vision. Drop height was maintained constant throughout each block of trials to allow adaptation. The aim of the study was to assess the extent to which proprioceptive and vestibular information could substitute for the lack of vision in adapting landing movements to different heights. At the final stages of the movement, subjects experienced similar peak centre of body mass (CM) displacements and joint rotations, regardless of the availability of vision. This implies that subjects were able to adapt the control of landing to different heights. The amplitude and timing of electromyographic signals from the leg muscles scaled to drop height in a similar fashion with and without vision. However, variables measured throughout the execution of the movement indicated important differences. Without vision, landings were characterised by 10 % larger ground reaction forces, 10 % smaller knee joint rotations, different time lags between peak joint rotations, and more variable ground reaction forces and times to peak CM displacement. We conclude that non-visual sensory information (a) could not fully compensate for the lack of continuous visual feedback and (b) this non-visual information was used to reorganise the motor output. These results suggest that vision is important for the very accurate timing of muscle activity onset and the kinematics of landing. PMID:11711583

Functional brain connectivity when cooperation fails.

PubMed

Balconi, Michela; Vanutelli, Maria Elide; Gatti, Laura

2018-06-01

Functional connectivity during cooperative actions is an important topic in social neuroscience that has yet to be answered. Here, we examined the effects of administration of (fictitious) negative social feedback in relation to cooperative capabilities. Cognitive performance and neural activation underlying the execution of joint actions was recorded with functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) on prefrontal regions during a task where pairs of participants received negative feedback after their joint action. Performance (error rates (ERs) and response times (RTs)) and intra- and inter-brain connectivity indices were computed, along with the ConIndex (inter-brain/intra-brain connectivity). Finally, correlational measures were considered to assess the relation between these different measures. Results showed that the negative feedback was able to modulate participants' responses for both behavioral and neural components. Cognitive performance was decreased after the feedback. Moreover, decreased inter-brain connectivity and increased intra-brain connectivity was induced by the feedback, whereas the cooperative task pre-feedback condition was able to increase the brain-to-brain coupling, mainly localized within the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC). Finally, the presence of significant correlations between RTs and inter-brain connectivity revealed that ineffective joint action produces the worst cognitive performance and a more 'individual strategy' for brain activity, limiting the inter-brain connectivity. The present study provides a significant contribution to the identification of patterns of intra- and inter-brain functional connectivity when negative social reinforcement is provided in relation to cooperative actions. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

National Positioning, Navigation, and Timing Architecture Study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

van Dyke, K.; Vicario, J.; Hothem, L.

2007-12-01

The purpose of the National Positioning, Navigation and Timing (PNT) Architecture effort is to help guide future PNT system-of-systems investment and implementation decisions. The Assistant Secretary of Defense for Networks and Information Integration and the Under Secretary of Transportation for Policy sponsored a National PNT Architecture study to provide more effective and efficient PNT capabilities focused on the 2025 timeframe and an evolutionary path for government provided systems and services. U.S. Space-Based PNT Policy states that the U.S. must continue to improve and maintain GPS, augmentations to GPS, and back-up capabilities to meet growing national, homeland, and economic security needs. PNT touches almost every aspect of people´s lives today. PNT is essential for Defense and Civilian applications ranging from the Department of Defense´s Joint network centric and precision operations to the transportation and telecommunications sectors, improving efficiency, increasing safety, and being more productive. Absence of an approved PNT architecture results in uncoordinated research efforts, lack of clear developmental paths, potentially wasteful procurements and inefficient deployment of PNT resources. The national PNT architecture effort evaluated alternative future mixes of global (space and non space-based) and regional PNT solutions, PNT augmentations, and autonomous PNT capabilities to address priorities identified in the DoD PNT Joint Capabilities Document (JCD) and civil equivalents. The path to achieving the Should-Be architecture is described by the National PNT Architecture's Guiding Principles, representing an overarching Vision of the US' role in PNT, an architectural Strategy to fulfill that Vision, and four Vectors which support the Strategy. The National PNT Architecture effort has developed nineteen recommendations. Five foundational recommendations are tied directly to the Strategy while the remaining fourteen individually support one of the Vectors, as will be described in this presentation. The results of this effort will support future decisions of bodies such as the DoD PNT and Civil Pos/Nav Executive Committees, as well as the National Space-Based PNT Executive Committee (EXCOM).

Interacting With Robots to Investigate the Bases of Social Interaction.

PubMed

Sciutti, Alessandra; Sandini, Giulio

2017-12-01

Humans show a great natural ability at interacting with each other. Such efficiency in joint actions depends on a synergy between planned collaboration and emergent coordination, a subconscious mechanism based on a tight link between action execution and perception. This link supports phenomena as mutual adaptation, synchronization, and anticipation, which cut drastically the delays in the interaction and the need of complex verbal instructions and result in the establishment of joint intentions, the backbone of social interaction. From a neurophysiological perspective, this is possible, because the same neural system supporting action execution is responsible of the understanding and the anticipation of the observed action of others. Defining which human motion features allow for such emergent coordination with another agent would be crucial to establish more natural and efficient interaction paradigms with artificial devices, ranging from assistive and rehabilitative technology to companion robots. However, investigating the behavioral and neural mechanisms supporting natural interaction poses substantial problems. In particular, the unconscious processes at the basis of emergent coordination (e.g., unintentional movements or gazing) are very difficult-if not impossible-to restrain or control in a quantitative way for a human agent. Moreover, during an interaction, participants influence each other continuously in a complex way, resulting in behaviors that go beyond experimental control. In this paper, we propose robotics technology as a potential solution to this methodological problem. Robots indeed can establish an interaction with a human partner, contingently reacting to his actions without losing the controllability of the experiment or the naturalness of the interactive scenario. A robot could represent an "interactive probe" to assess the sensory and motor mechanisms underlying human-human interaction. We discuss this proposal with examples from our research with the humanoid robot iCub, showing how an interactive humanoid robot could be a key tool to serve the investigation of the psychological and neuroscientific bases of social interaction.

Analysis of stress-strain state of support ring of vertical steel tank RVS-20000

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chepur, P. V.; Tarasenko, A. A.; Gruchenkova, A. A.

2018-05-01

The refined finite element model of the joint of a fixed roof with a support ring for a large-size vertical steel tank RVS-20000 is executed. It considers the real geometry of metal shell plates - in accordance with the TP-704-1-60 design, geometric and physical nonlinearity, and features of the non-axisymmetric design loading scheme of the structure. Dependences of the SSS parameters of the support joint design on the size of the subsidence zone of the outer contour of the RVS-20000 bottom are obtained. It is established that at the value of subsidence zone coefficient n ≤ 1, a region of critical values occurs, exceeding which leads to the appearance of unacceptable plastic deformations of metal structures. The authors performed interpretation of the postprocessing of the finite element analysis, as a result of which the dependences of the parameters of the stress-strain state on the value of the zone of warping were obtained. The graphs of the dependence of the values of strains and stresses of the metal structure of the support ring on the size of the subsidence zone along the arc of the outer contour of the bottom are presented.

Dose reconstruction for the Urals population. Joint Coordinating Committee on Radiation Effects Research, Project 1.1 -- Final report

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

Degteva, M.O.; Drozhko, E.; Anspaugh, L.R.

1996-02-01

This work is being carried out as a feasibility study to determine if a long-term course of work can be implemented to assess the long-term risks of radiation exposure delivered at low to moderate dose rates to the populations living in the vicinity of the Mayak Industrial Association (MIA). This work was authorized and conducted under the auspices of the US-Russian Joint Coordinating Committee on Radiation Effects Research (JCCRER) and its Executive Committee (EC). The MIA was the first Russian site for the production and separation of plutonium. This plant began operation in 1948, and during its early days theremore » were technological failures that resulted in the release of large amounts of waste into the rather small Techa River. There were also gaseous releases of radioiodines and other radionuclides during the early days of operation. In addition, there was an accidental explosion in a waste storage tank in 1957 that resulted in a significant release. The Techa River Cohort has been studied for several years by scientists from the Urals Research Centre for Radiation Medicine and an increase in both leukemia and solid tumors has been noted.« less

Confidence level estimation in multi-target classification problems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chang, Shi; Isaacs, Jason; Fu, Bo; Shin, Jaejeong; Zhu, Pingping; Ferrari, Silvia

2018-04-01

This paper presents an approach for estimating the confidence level in automatic multi-target classification performed by an imaging sensor on an unmanned vehicle. An automatic target recognition algorithm comprised of a deep convolutional neural network in series with a support vector machine classifier detects and classifies targets based on the image matrix. The joint posterior probability mass function of target class, features, and classification estimates is learned from labeled data, and recursively updated as additional images become available. Based on the learned joint probability mass function, the approach presented in this paper predicts the expected confidence level of future target classifications, prior to obtaining new images. The proposed approach is tested with a set of simulated sonar image data. The numerical results show that the estimated confidence level provides a close approximation to the actual confidence level value determined a posteriori, i.e. after the new image is obtained by the on-board sensor. Therefore, the expected confidence level function presented in this paper can be used to adaptively plan the path of the unmanned vehicle so as to optimize the expected confidence levels and ensure that all targets are classified with satisfactory confidence after the path is executed.

Squat exercise to estimate knee megaprosthesis rehabilitation: a pilot study

PubMed Central

Lovecchio, Nicola; Zago, Matteo; Sciumè, Luciana; Lopresti, Maurizio; Sforza, Chiarella

2015-01-01

[Purpose] This study evaluated a specific rehabilitation protocol using a half squat after total knee reconstruction with distal femur megaprosthesis and tibial allograft-prosthesis composite. [Subject and Methods] Squat execution was recorded by a three-dimensional system before and after a specific rehabilitation program on a 28-year-old patient. Squat duration, body center of mass trajectory, and vertical range of motion were determined. Step width and joint angles and symmetry (hip flexion, extension, and rotation, knee flexion, and ankle dorsal and plantar flexion) were estimated. Knee and hip joint symmetry was computed using a bilateral cyclogram technique. [Results] After rehabilitation, the squat duration was longer (75%), step width was similar, and vertical displacement was higher. Hip flexion increased by over 20%, and ankle dorsiflexion diminished by 14%. The knee had the highest symmetry gain (4.1–3.4%). Angle-angle plot subtended areas decreased from 108° to 40°2 (hip) and from 204° to 85°2 (knee), showing improvement in movement symmetry. [Conclusion] We concluded that the squat is an effective multifactorial exercise to estimate rehabilitation outcomes after megaprosthesis, also considering that compressive and shear forces are minimal up to 60–70° of knee flexion. PMID:26311992

Design and implementation of a training strategy in chronic stroke with an arm robotic exoskeleton.

PubMed

Frisoli, Antonio; Sotgiu, Edoardo; Procopio, Caterina; Bergamasco, Massimo; Rossi, Bruno; Chisari, Carmelo

2011-01-01

The distinguishing features of active exoskeletons are the capability of guiding arm movement at the level of the full kinematic chain of the human arm, and training full 3D spatial movements. We have specifically developed a PD sliding mode control for upper limb rehabilitation with gain scheduling for providing "assistance as needed", according to the force capability of the patient, and an automatic measurement of the impaired arm joint torques, to evaluate the hypertonia associated to the movement during the execution of the training exercise. Two different training tasks in Virtual Reality were devised, that make use of the above control, and allow to make a performance based evaluation of patient's motor status. The PERCRO L-Exos (Light-Exoskeleton) was used to evaluate the proposed algorithms and training exercises in two clinical case studies of patients with chronic stroke, that performed 6 weeks of robotic assisted training. Clinical evaluation (Fugl-Meyer Scale, Modified Ashworth Scale, Bimanual Activity Test) was conducted before and after treatment and compared to the scores and the quantitative indices, such as task time, position/joint error and resistance torques, associated to the training exercises. © 2011 IEEE

Hybrid clustering based fuzzy structure for vibration control - Part 1: A novel algorithm for building neuro-fuzzy system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nguyen, Sy Dzung; Nguyen, Quoc Hung; Choi, Seung-Bok

2015-01-01

This paper presents a new algorithm for building an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) from a training data set called B-ANFIS. In order to increase accuracy of the model, the following issues are executed. Firstly, a data merging rule is proposed to build and perform a data-clustering strategy. Subsequently, a combination of clustering processes in the input data space and in the joint input-output data space is presented. Crucial reason of this task is to overcome problems related to initialization and contradictory fuzzy rules, which usually happen when building ANFIS. The clustering process in the input data space is accomplished based on a proposed merging-possibilistic clustering (MPC) algorithm. The effectiveness of this process is evaluated to resume a clustering process in the joint input-output data space. The optimal parameters obtained after completion of the clustering process are used to build ANFIS. Simulations based on a numerical data, 'Daily Data of Stock A', and measured data sets of a smart damper are performed to analyze and estimate accuracy. In addition, convergence and robustness of the proposed algorithm are investigated based on both theoretical and testing approaches.

The benefit of low dose prophylaxis in the treatment of hemophilia: a focus on China.

PubMed

Wu, Runhui; Luke, Koon Hung

2017-11-01

Currently full dose prophylaxis is the standard of care in the treatment of hemophilia (World Federation of Hemophilia). However, the high costs prevent the use of standard or intermediate dose prophylaxis in China and other developing countries. Low dose prophylaxis would be a viable alternative treatment. At present global research data on the use of low dose prophylaxis is limited. Areas covered: Since 2007, China has been developing low dose prophylaxis as a high priority (90 % of moderate and severe hemophilia boys suffer joint disease by age 6 - 9). 11 studies were successfully conducted and published results showing evidence of the benefits of low dose prophylaxis to reduce joint bleeding. This new knowledge has been implemented into clinical practice in China. However the long-term outcome of arthropathy remains unclear and obstacles in execution exist. Expert commentary: In 2016, the first phenotype-based individualized prophylaxis study using four escalating low dose regimens on severe Chinese hemophilia A boys (China Individualized Prophylaxis Study (CHIP China)) launched. Using the previously published and imminent CHIP data, the goal for China is to establish an effective escalating low dose prophylaxis protocol for use in China as a standard of care.

Re-assessment of offshore structures using the revised HSE fatigue guidance

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

Stacey, A.; Sharp, J.V.

1995-12-31

The re-assessment of existing North Sea structures is an increasingly important issue as the age of platforms increases. Over 50 from a total of approximately 180 fixed installations in the UK sector are now over 15 years old. Fatigue damage has been the main reason for repairs to North Sea structures and the risk of this continues. The fatigue guidance of the Offshore Safety Division of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has recently been revised and published. Fundamental changes have been made to this guidance with several new recommendations including joint classification, basic design S-N curves for welded joints,more » the thickness effect, the effects of environment and the treatment of low and high stress ranges. To quantify the effects of the new guidance on the fatigue life assessment of offshore strictures, the HSE commissioned a study which included a deep water and a shallow water fixed steel structure and a twin-pontoon semi-submersible. These structures are typical of those operating in the North Sea. These were re-assessed with respect to fatigue lives and the results compared with predictions based on the 1990 guidance. The results and general conclusions are presented in this paper.« less

Assessment of the contamination of drinking water supply wells by pesticides from surface water resources using a finite element reactive transport model and global sensitivity analysis techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Malaguerra, Flavio; Albrechtsen, Hans-Jørgen; Binning, Philip John

2013-01-01

SummaryA reactive transport model is employed to evaluate the potential for contamination of drinking water wells by surface water pollution. The model considers various geologic settings, includes sorption and degradation processes and is tested by comparison with data from a tracer experiment where fluorescein dye injected in a river is monitored at nearby drinking water wells. Three compounds were considered: an older pesticide MCPP (Mecoprop) which is mobile and relatively persistent, glyphosate (Roundup), a newer biodegradable and strongly sorbing pesticide, and its degradation product AMPA. Global sensitivity analysis using the Morris method is employed to identify the dominant model parameters. Results show that the characteristics of clay aquitards (degree of fracturing and thickness), pollutant properties and well depths are crucial factors when evaluating the risk of drinking water well contamination from surface water. This study suggests that it is unlikely that glyphosate in streams can pose a threat to drinking water wells, while MCPP in surface water can represent a risk: MCPP concentration at the drinking water well can be up to 7% of surface water concentration in confined aquifers and up to 10% in unconfined aquifers. Thus, the presence of confining clay aquitards may not prevent contamination of drinking water wells by persistent compounds in surface water. Results are consistent with data on pesticide occurrence in Denmark where pesticides are found at higher concentrations at shallow depths and close to streams.

A spatially explicit hydro-ecological modeling framework (BEPS-TerrainLab V2.0): Model description and test in a boreal ecosystem in Eastern North America

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Govind, Ajit; Chen, Jing Ming; Margolis, Hank; Ju, Weimin; Sonnentag, Oliver; Giasson, Marc-André

2009-04-01

SummaryA spatially explicit, process-based hydro-ecological model, BEPS-TerrainLab V2.0, was developed to improve the representation of ecophysiological, hydro-ecological and biogeochemical processes of boreal ecosystems in a tightly coupled manner. Several processes unique to boreal ecosystems were implemented including the sub-surface lateral water fluxes, stratification of vegetation into distinct layers for explicit ecophysiological representation, inclusion of novel spatial upscaling strategies and biogeochemical processes. To account for preferential water fluxes common in humid boreal ecosystems, a novel scheme was introduced based on laboratory analyses. Leaf-scale ecophysiological processes were upscaled to canopy-scale by explicitly considering leaf physiological conditions as affected by light and water stress. The modified model was tested with 2 years of continuous measurements taken at the Eastern Old Black Spruce Site of the Fluxnet-Canada Research Network located in a humid boreal watershed in eastern Canada. Comparison of the simulated and measured ET, water-table depth (WTD), volumetric soil water content (VSWC) and gross primary productivity (GPP) revealed that BEPS-TerrainLab V2.0 simulates hydro-ecological processes with reasonable accuracy. The model was able to explain 83% of the ET, 92% of the GPP variability and 72% of the WTD dynamics. The model suggests that in humid ecosystems such as eastern North American boreal watersheds, topographically driven sub-surface baseflow is the main mechanism of soil water partitioning which significantly affects the local-scale hydrological conditions.

Springwater geochemistry at Honey Creek State Natural Area, central Texas: Implications for surface water and groundwater interaction in a karst aquifer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Musgrove, M.; Stern, L. A.; Banner, J. L.

2010-06-01

SummaryA two and a half year study of two adjacent watersheds at the Honey Creek State Natural Area (HCSNA) in central Texas was undertaken to evaluate spatial and temporal variations in springwater geochemistry, geochemical evolution processes, and potential effects of brush control on karst watershed hydrology. The watersheds are geologically and geomorphologically similar, and each has springs discharging into Honey Creek, a tributary to the Guadalupe River. Springwater geochemistry is considered in a regional context of aquifer components including soil water, cave dripwater, springwater, and phreatic groundwater. Isotopic and trace element variability allows us to identify both vadose and phreatic groundwater contributions to surface water in Honey Creek. Spatial and temporal geochemical data for six springs reveal systematic differences between the two watersheds. Springwater Sr isotope values lie between values for the limestone bedrock and soils at HCSNA, reflecting a balance between these two primary sources of Sr. Sr isotope values for springs within each watershed are consistent with differences between soil compositions. At some of the springs, consistent temporal variability in springwater geochemistry (Sr isotopes, Mg/Ca, and Sr/Ca values) appears to reflect changes in climatic and hydrologic parameters (rainfall/recharge) that affect watershed processes. Springwater geochemistry was unaffected by brush removal at the scale of the HCSNA study. Results of this study build on previous regional studies to provide insight into watershed hydrology and regional hydrologic processes, including connections between surface water, vadose groundwater, and phreatic groundwater.

Clinical Trial Results Summary for Laypersons: A User Testing Study.

PubMed

Raynor, D K; Myers, L; Blackwell, K; Kress, B; Dubost, A; Joos, A

2018-01-01

To apply "user testing" to maximize readability and acceptability of a Clinical Trial Results Laypersons Summary-a new European requirement. "User testing" (using questionnaire and semistructured interview) assessed whether people could find and understand key points. Findings were used to improve content and design, prior to retesting. Participants had a range of levels of health literacy and there was a higher education group. Participants accessed the summary on screen. In round 1 we tested 12 points of information. In round 2 a revised summary addressing round 1 findings was tested, leading to a third final version. In round 1, 2 of 12 points of information did not reach the target and interviews raised further format and content issues (some distracting technical explanations and inability to find or understand the 2 main study purposes). These findings informed revisions for the version tested in round 2, with 2 different points not reaching the target (inclusion criteria relating to duration of seasonal allergies and how researchers found out about participants' symptoms). Identified problems in both rounds were addressed and reflected in the final version. Despite improvements, participants did not consistently understand that summaries were intended for the public, or to only interpret results of single trials in the context of additional trials. All readers, including those with higher education, found the clear and straightforward language acceptable. Applying "user testing" resulted in a largely health-literate summary suitable for people across a range of backgrounds.

Real-world hydrologic assessment of a fully-distributed hydrological model in a parallel computing environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vivoni, Enrique R.; Mascaro, Giuseppe; Mniszewski, Susan; Fasel, Patricia; Springer, Everett P.; Ivanov, Valeriy Y.; Bras, Rafael L.

2011-10-01

SummaryA major challenge in the use of fully-distributed hydrologic models has been the lack of computational capabilities for high-resolution, long-term simulations in large river basins. In this study, we present the parallel model implementation and real-world hydrologic assessment of the Triangulated Irregular Network (TIN)-based Real-time Integrated Basin Simulator (tRIBS). Our parallelization approach is based on the decomposition of a complex watershed using the channel network as a directed graph. The resulting sub-basin partitioning divides effort among processors and handles hydrologic exchanges across boundaries. Through numerical experiments in a set of nested basins, we quantify parallel performance relative to serial runs for a range of processors, simulation complexities and lengths, and sub-basin partitioning methods, while accounting for inter-run variability on a parallel computing system. In contrast to serial simulations, the parallel model speed-up depends on the variability of hydrologic processes. Load balancing significantly improves parallel speed-up with proportionally faster runs as simulation complexity (domain resolution and channel network extent) increases. The best strategy for large river basins is to combine a balanced partitioning with an extended channel network, with potential savings through a lower TIN resolution. Based on these advances, a wider range of applications for fully-distributed hydrologic models are now possible. This is illustrated through a set of ensemble forecasts that account for precipitation uncertainty derived from a statistical downscaling model.

Phases of QCD: Summary of the Rutgers Long Range Plan Town Meeting, January 12-14, 2007

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

Jacobs, Peter; Kharzeev, Dmitri; Muller, Berndt

2007-05-14

This White Paper summarizes the outcome of the Town Meeting on Phases of QCD that took place January 12-14, 2007 at Rutgers University, as part of the NSAC 2007 Long Range Planning process. The meeting was held in conjunction with the Town Meeting on Hadron Structure, including a full day of joint plenary sessions of the two meetings. Appendix A.1 contains the meeting agenda. This Executive Summary presents the prioritized recommendations that were determined at the meeting. Subsequent chapters present the essential background to the recommendations. While this White Paper is not a scholarly article and contains few references, itmore » is intended to provide the non-expert reader« less

Council Meeting Highlights

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Council held a very productive meeting on 17 June using telephone conferencing and a Web-based system for sharing documents. Although the Executive Committee and many other committees have long conducted their business telephonically, this was a first for Council. The early date of the Joint Assembly in Nice, which incorporated AGU's 2003 Spring Meeting, meant that the critical item for Council, approval of the slate of candidates for the next election, would not be ready for action at that time. Thus, the meeting was scheduled for June in conjunction with the Planning Committee. The slate of nominees for the 2004-2006 term was approved as presented by the Union and Section nominating committees. The accompanying story provides the names and the process for petition nominations from the membership.

UM-PRS: An implementation of the procedural reasoning system for multirobot applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, Jaeho; Huber, Marcus J.; Durfee, Edmund H.; Kenny, Patrick G.

1994-01-01

The Procedural Reasoning System (PRS) is used in applications where predetermined situations might arise. The UM-PRS provides a reasoning system that represents robotic applications even in unpredictable domains, such as the robotic reconnaissance task domain outlined here. UM-PRS incorporates a changing context, rather than relying solely on a prearranged plan. The UM-PRS here provides representation important in the reasoning and interface between a mission plan and the executable map of an outdoor vehicle that changes its behavior based on what it comes in contact with in its environment. PRS is thus used in the dynamic control of such a vehicle, providing the basis for coordinating the joint task of multiple robotic vehicles by the their individual observations and representation.

The Electrochemical Society, Inc. Meeting Program (181st), Held in St. Louis, Missouri on May 17-22, 1992. Including: State-of-the-Art Program on Compound Semiconductors XVI, Fullerenes: Chemistry, Physics, and New Directions, Quantum Confinement, Micromachining and Microstructures, Electronics/Dielectric Science and Technology Joint Recent News Papers

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-04-28

evening. After the boat has crusied for Division Executive Committee a while, you will be served a buffet-style dinner of baked ham. chicken a Is...you would like to discuss. a The Pox Theatre and St. Louis Science Center are spectacular sites member of the Society Headquarters Staff will be...be no larger than 8 In 1929 by William Pox of 20th Century Pon fame, as crown jewel of 1" i 11’. ie empire, It be earned the name "The Fabulous Pox

KSC-01pp1267

NASA Image and Video Library

2001-07-06

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- The signing of a lease agreement between Spaceport Florida Authority (SFA) and United Space Alliance (USA) for the use of a hangar at Kennedy Space Center brings smiles to the participants. Seated at the table are (left) Marcie Harris, USA Site Director, and (right) Ed Gormel, Spaceport Florida Executive Director. Observing behind them are (left to right) Rochelle Cooper, USA associate general counsel; Marv Jones, KSC associate director; Greg Popp, Spaceport Florida business manager; Congressman Dave Weldon; and State Rep. Mike Haridopolos. The hangar was originally developed by the state as part of a joint NASA/SFA Reusable Launch Vehicle Support Complex at KSC. USA plans to use the state-developed 50,000-square-foot facility to store and maintain Space Shuttle ground equipment

KSC-01pp1269

NASA Image and Video Library

2001-07-06

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- After the signing of a lease agreement between Spaceport Florida Authority (SFA) and United Space Alliance (USA) for the use of a hangar at Kennedy Space Center, (foreground left) Marcie Harris, USA site director, and (foreground right) Ed Gormel, Spaceport Florida executive director, hold a symbolic ribbon. Behind them are (left to right) Rochelle Cooper, USA associate general counsel; Marv Jones, KSC associate director; Greg Popp, Spaceport Florida business manager; Congressman Dave Weldon; and State Rep. Mike Haridopolos. The hangar was originally developed by the state as part of a joint NASA/SFA Reusable Launch Vehicle Support Complex at KSC. USA plans to use the state-developed 50,000-square-foot facility to store and maintain Space Shuttle ground equipment

Aquarius SAC-D Post-Launch Briefing

NASA Image and Video Library

2011-06-10

From left, George Diller, NASA Public Affairs Officer; Charles Gay, Deputy Associate Administrator, NASA Science Mission Directorate; Hector Timerman, Foreign Minister of Argentina, Buenos Aires; Michael Freilich, NASA Earth Science Division Director, NASA Headquarters; and Conrado Varotto, CONAE Executive and Technical Director, Buenos Aires, are seen at the Aquarius/SAC-D post-launch press conference on Friday, June 10, 2011 at the NASA Resident Office, Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. The joint U.S./Argentinian Aquarius/Satélite de Aplicaciones Científicas (SAC)-D mission, launched earlier on Friday June 10, will map the salinity at the ocean surface, information critical to improving our understanding of two major components of Earth's climate system: the water cycle and ocean circulation. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

Aquarius SAC-D Post-Launch Briefing

NASA Image and Video Library

2011-06-10

Seated from left, George Diller, NASA Public Affairs Officer; Charles Gay, Deputy Associate Administrator, NASA Science Mission Directorate; Hector Timerman, Foreign Minister of Argentina, Buenos Aires; Michael Freilich, NASA Earth Science Division Director, NASA Headquarters; and Conrado Varotto, CONAE Executive and Technical Director, Buenos Aires, are seen at the Aquarius/SAC-D post-launch press conference on Friday, June 10, 2011 at the NASA Resident Office, Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. The joint U.S./Argentinian Aquarius/Satélite de Aplicaciones Científicas (SAC)-D mission, launched earlier on Friday June 10, will map the salinity at the ocean surface, information critical to improving our understanding of two major components of Earth's climate system: the water cycle and ocean circulation. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

Comment on "Effect of coal-fired power generation on visibility in a nearby National Park (Terhorst and Berkman, 2010)"

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

White, W. H.; Farber, R. J.; Malm, W. C.; Nuttall, M.; Pitchford, M. L.; Schichtel, B. A.

2012-08-01

Few electricity generating stations received more environmental scrutiny during the last quarter of the twentieth century than did the Mohave Power Project (MPP), a coal-fired facility near Grand Canyon National Park. Terhorst and Berkman (2010) examine regional aerosol monitoring data collected before and after the plant's 2006 retirement for retrospective evidence of MPP's impact on visibility in the Park. The authors' technical analysis is thoughtfully conceived and executed, but is misleadingly presented as discrediting previous studies and their interpretation by regulators. In reality the Terhorst-Berkman analysis validates a consensus on MPP's visibility impact that was established years before its closure, in a collaborative assessment undertaken jointly by Federal regulators and MPP's owners.

KSC-03PD-1393

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2003-01-01

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - John Cassanto of ITA looks at the Growth of Bacterial Biofilm on Surfaces during Spaceflight (GOBBSS) experiment that was carried on mission STS-107 as part of the Commercial ITA Biomedical Experiments payload. He is part of a recovery team transferring experiments to alternate containers. GOBBSS was a Planetary Society-sponsored astrobiology experiment developed by the Israeli Aerospace Medical Institute and the Johnson Space Center Astrobiology Center, with joint participation of an Israeli and a Palestinian student. The recovery team also includes Eran Schenker of the Israeli Aerospace Medical Institute; David Warmflash of JSC, and Louis Friedman, executive director of the Planetary Society. The GOBBSS material will be sent to JSC where the science team will analyze the samples, studying the effects of spaceflight on bacterial growth.

National meeting to review IPAD status and goals. [Integrated Programs for Aerospace-vehicle Design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fulton, R. E.

1980-01-01

A joint NASA/industry project called Integrated Programs for Aerospace-vehicle Design (IPAD) is described, which has the goal of raising aerospace-industry productivity through the application of computers to integrate company-wide management of engineering data. Basically a general-purpose interactive computing system developed to support engineering design processes, the IPAD design is composed of three major software components: the executive, data management, and geometry and graphics software. Results of IPAD activities include a comprehensive description of a future representative aerospace vehicle design process and its interface to manufacturing, and requirements and preliminary design of a future IPAD software system to integrate engineering activities of an aerospace company having several products under simultaneous development.

A Novel Process Audit for Standardized Perioperative Handoff Protocols.

PubMed

Pallekonda, Vinay; Scholl, Adam T; McKelvey, George M; Amhaz, Hassan; Essa, Deanna; Narreddy, Spurthy; Tan, Jens; Templonuevo, Mark; Ramirez, Sasha; Petrovic, Michelle A

2017-11-01

A perioperative handoff protocol provides a standardized delivery of communication during a handoff that occurs from the operating room to the postanestheisa care unit or ICU. The protocol's success is dependent, in part, on its continued proper use over time. A novel process audit was developed to help ensure that a perioperative handoff protocol is used accurately and appropriately over time. The Audit Observation Form is used for the Audit Phase of the process audit, while the Audit Averages Form is used for the Data Analysis Phase. Employing minimal resources and using quantitative methods, the process audit provides the necessary means to evaluate the proper execution of any perioperative handoff protocol. Copyright © 2017 The Joint Commission. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

KSC-03pd1393

NASA Image and Video Library

2003-05-05

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - John Cassanto of ITA looks at the Growth of Bacterial Biofilm on Surfaces during Spaceflight (GOBBSS) experiment that was carried on mission STS-107 as part of the Commercial ITA Biomedical Experiments payload. He is part of a recovery team transferring experiments to alternate containers. GOBBSS was a Planetary Society-sponsored astrobiology experiment developed by the Israeli Aerospace Medical Institute and the Johnson Space Center Astrobiology Center, with joint participation of an Israeli and a Palestinian student. The recovery team also includes Eran Schenker of the Israeli Aerospace Medical Institute; David Warmflash of JSC, and Louis Friedman, executive director of the Planetary Society. The GOBBSS material will be sent to JSC where the science team will analyze the samples, studying the effects of spaceflight on bacterial growth.

Industrial X-Ray Imaging

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1997-01-01

In 1990, Lewis Research Center jointly sponsored a conference with the U.S. Air Force Wright Laboratory focused on high speed imaging. This conference, and early funding by Lewis Research Center, helped to spur work by Silicon Mountain Design, Inc. to break the performance barriers of imaging speed, resolution, and sensitivity through innovative technology. Later, under a Small Business Innovation Research contract with the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, the company designed a real-time image enhancing camera that yields superb, high quality images in 1/30th of a second while limiting distortion. The result is a rapidly available, enhanced image showing significantly greater detail compared to image processing executed on digital computers. Current applications include radiographic and pathology-based medicine, industrial imaging, x-ray inspection devices, and automated semiconductor inspection equipment.

Optimizing Functional Outcomes in Mandibular Condyle Reconstruction With the Free Fibula Flap Using Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing Technology.

PubMed

Lee, Z-Hye; Avraham, Tomer; Monaco, Casian; Patel, Ashish A; Hirsch, David L; Levine, Jamie P

2018-05-01

Mandibular defects involving the condyle represent a complex reconstructive challenge for restoring proper function of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) because it requires precise bone graft alignment for full restoration of joint function. The use of computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology can aid in accurate reconstruction of mandibular condyle defects with a vascularized free fibula flap without the need for additional adjuncts. The purpose of this study was to analyze clinical and functional outcomes after reconstruction of mandibular condyle defects using only a free fibula graft with the help of virtual surgery techniques. A retrospective review was performed to identify all patients who underwent mandibular reconstruction with only a free fibula flap without any TMJ adjuncts after a total condylectomy. Three-dimensional modeling software was used to plan and execute reconstruction for all patients. From 2009 through 2014, 14 patients underwent reconstruction of mandibular defects involving the condyle with the aid of virtual surgery technology. The average age was 38.7 years (range, 11 to 77 yr). The average follow-up period was 2.6 years (range, 0.8 to 4.2 yr). Flap survival was 100% (N = 14). All patients reported improved facial symmetry, adequate jaw opening, and normal dental occlusion. In addition, they achieved good functional outcomes, including normal intelligible speech and the tolerance of a regular diet with solid foods. Maximal interincisal opening range for all patients was 25 to 38 mm with no lateral deviation or subjective joint pain. No patient had progressive joint hypomobility or condylar migration. One patient had ankylosis, which required release. TMJ reconstruction poses considerable challenges in bone graft alignment for full restoration of joint function. The use of CAD/CAM technology can aid in accurate reconstruction of mandibular condyle defects with a vascularized free fibula flap through precise planning and intraoperative manipulation with optimal functional outcomes. Copyright © 2017 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.